15 Neighborhoods with Unique Charm

From historical appeal to walkability, here are some of the top neighborhoods around

Modoc Street, Ward

Ward is barely a town to the unassuming eye. It’s a blip on a map that is situated at 9,144 feet and is home to a few buildings, a restaurant, a store, and the basic town necessities. The town separates Peak to Peak Highway from the Foothills. Named after prospector Calvin Ward, it was once one of the richest in Colorado due to its successful mining camps. Today, the hub of the town is Ward Mountain Exchange that is situated at Utica and Modoc streets and is known for hosting dozens of cyclists that pass through on the weekends. However, those who take the time to explore the town are quick to notice its under-the-radar quirks and treasures.

The Modoc Street region of Ward is not only beautiful, but it is also home to the Union Congregational Church of Ward, which is as old as it is integral to the community. The church was built in 1896 for the congregation that formed two years prior. Today, it not only serves as a holy place for ceremonies, memorials, and similar special occasions, but community members also use it for parties, meetings, and celebrations. The church’s website states: “Today it’s used and loved by the whole community as both a church, operating in the United Church of Christ tradition, and as a community gathering place, hosting meetings, parties, weddings, community celebrations and memorials, and just people wanting to sing in its awesome acoustics.”

Many mountain towns have a designated gathering place for locals, and Union Congregational Church is Ward’s chosen place, welcoming locals on a regular basis. In 2017, the church received a grant to aid in renovations. And in 2018, it received another, which helped church operators restore it to its original glory.

In addition to Union Congregational Church, this stretch of Ward is home to a small, quiet neighborhood full of independent but friendly residents. Part of what makes the region so unique is its small-town feel. Just 128 people and 36 families live in the town full-time according to the 2020 Census. After a fire erupted in 1900, about 50 of the town’s original buildings were demolished in the tragedy, and the area was nearly abandoned by 1920. What remains has been largely rebuilt by those who call this area their home.

Bohn Park, Lyons

The town of Lyons is best known for its quaint Main Street and antique shops. The town acts as the Double Gateway to the Rockies due to its coveted access to Highways 7 and 36. However, there’s more to this town than the downtown strip of shops. Lyons is home to an array of neighborhoods that come with their own characters. The Bohn Park region of Lyons is one such neighborhood that is home to family-friendly residences. It also offers plenty of open space, river access, and access to Rocky Mountain Botanic Gardens — all of which are just a five-minute walk from downtown.

Bohn Park covers 32.3 acres on the southeastern part of town, and many of the park’s features draw crowds all year round. For example, the park’s pavilion gives park-goers access to a phenomenal picnic area. Locals often use the pavilion as a place for parties and other social gatherings. And in the summer, the park even hosts live music regularly, entertaining and inspiring audience members and passersby.

The new and improved features that the park offers makes it an idyllic part of town for those who like to get outside and use trails and sports facilities. According to the Town of Lyons website: “Bohn Park has recent improvements including river restoration and improved ecological habitat, additional parking, a new restroom facility, a pedestrian bridge connecting to 4th Ave., ball fields, skate park and landscaping, continuance of the trail system within the plan area, and other infrastructure enhancements.” The adjacent skate park is frequented by both residents and non-residents, and it offers visitors access to the perfect concrete jumps and ramps.

On the other side of the highway within walking distance, the beloved Lyons Dairy Bar dishes out hotdogs, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, ice cream, and other comfort food all weekend long. It neighbors Smokin’ Dave’s BBQ, which is one of the most popular dining spots in town due to its specialty brisket barbeque menu.

The town of Lyons feels rural, unlike many of the neighboring towns. While the foothill mountains are the backdrop to the town, much of the surrounding area is made up of fields and agricultural opportunities that give the region a Midwestern vibe. The largest industry in the Lyons area is Martin Marietta Cement Western Division, which is located a short drive east of the town of Lyons. But many of those who live in Lyons commute to nearby Longmont or Boulder for work due to their proximity.

Old North, Boulder

It is easy to overlook a place like Old North Boulder when the city is full of so many other youthful, hippie-forward neighborhoods. Known to some as “New Central Boulder,” Old North Boulder is situated North of Pearl Street Mall and south of Parkside. It is a part of town that’s known for its single-family homes and walk- and bike-friendly streets. And those in this region are never more than five blocks away from RTD transportation. In fact, many of its residents leave their cars parked in the garage and opt to use human-powered modes of transport instead.

Those who live in Old North Boulder love the convenience of travel in this region: “Getting around without a car is very easy. There are several streets with great bike lanes and the Goose Creek Path connects the neighborhood from Edgewood to the commercial meccas to the east, including the Valmont Bike Park. The community gardens and North Boulder Rec center are not only great resources, but also create a great section of bike path.” But what most people love about this part of town is that it’s equidistant to downtown and the nearby trail networks — and both are about six blocks away.

Old North Boulder started out as an agricultural destination, but after World War II, the local government started to divvy up land in this area for returning soldiers. Today, the area has a population of about 4,000 people. About 24% of the neighborhood is occupied by families. The rest is occupied by couples and single homeowners. Another feature that sets this part of town apart from others is its education. In fact, 39% of Old North Boulder’s residents have a graduate degree. Compared to the average American neighborhood, that’s about 30% higher.
The majority of residents in this region work as executives, managers, and other industry professionals.

Despite being slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of downtown Boulder, Old North Boulder boasts of some of the best food in town. Santo dishes out some of the best New Mexican-inspired food in the region, while offering a sophisticated place for dining. Right down the street, Beleza Coffee Bar is one of the top-rated coffee shops in the area, offering some of the most unique drink options, allowing clients to order delectable treats like affogato (or espresso-doused ice cream).

Martin Acres, Boulder

With stunning views of the Flatirons and a residential feel to the area, Martin Acres is a popular neighborhood for those who prefer to experience Boulder on foot. Whether you’re in it for the city or the Foothills, this area of Boulder offers access to both.
Yet it still manages to feel like an intimate neighborhood.

“Martin Acres [has] such good neighborhoody vibes. [You] can walk to practically anything needed. Or walk to awesome trails where you feel like you’re not even in town,” says Liesl Meyers, local resident.

Martin Acres was built in the 1950s around an apple farm. Similar to Old North Boulder, this area of Boulder was substantially developed post World War II for returning soldiers who needed a place to call home. While some parts of Boulder feel flippant, Martin Acres is intentional and connected in a way that makes it stand out. This could be one reason why families tend to be attracted to the area.

You can walk to practically anything needed. Or walk to awesome trails where you feel like you’re not even in town.

Julie B. Fuller, resident, states: “Great kid-friendly neighborhood. Great schools. Perfect for families. Easy to bike to many places and catch the bus.”

In addition to having high-quality schools, student housing, and family-friendly vibes, this part of Boulder has great mountain vistas and plenty of amenities. Some of the biggest attractions in this area include Neptune Mountaineering, which is both a legendary rock climbing museum and mountaineering shop that has been around since 1973 and Sweet Cow Ice Cream, which serves up hand-churned goodness in a simple scoop of ice cream.

Martin Acres is home to about 4,000 residents with a mean age of 38. The region has about 1350 single-family homes and apartment buildings. When it was first developed, it was seen as the suburbs of Boulder due to it being slightly removed from downtown. But today, it’s more commonly seen as an extension of downtown. Those who love spending time outdoors will also be quick to gravitate towards Tantra Park, which is known for slacklining and sledding.

Mapleton Hill, Boulder

Just northwest of Pearl Street, Mapleton Hill is aptly named for the 200 silver maple trees that developers planted years ago. The result is a deciduous neighborhood in an otherwise coniferous state that gives the region a dreamy vibe. The trees provide plenty of shade during the hot months, and when winter comes, the neighborhood feels like something out of a Christmas story.

In addition to its maple trees, Mapleton Hill is home to many Victorian buildings that were built in the late 1800s and the early 1900s. The region was designated as Boulder’s third historical district in 1982, and the mixed architecture makes it unlike any other part of Boulder.

Mount Sanitas is the crown jewel of Mapleton Hill, providing locals and visitors with a challenging peak over which they can hike to look down on the valley. It’s also a popular running destination and draws groups from around town on a regular basis. But what really sets this part of town apart from areas like Old North Boulder is that it’s just a few blocks away from Pearl Street, giving it a walkability score of 83.

“This area is gorgeous and is probably the best place to live if you value walking to downtown destinations and being close to hiking trails,” said Christian LS, who stated he has walked most of the area.

Mapleton Hill highlight the area’s unique conglomerate of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Among the most popular destinations is Savory Spice Shop, which is known for making local blends and rubs to transform cuisine. Another spot worth visiting is Spruce Confections for their sweet and savory hand-made treats. When it comes to finding nightlife in Mapleton Hill, it’s less popular of a hangout area than Pearl Street, but it does have a scene due to the local lounges and bars, as well as the annual down-home and unique Mapleton Hill Porchfest.

Also of note is that Mapleton Hill gives residents great ski access, allowing them to hop onto Highway 119 and end up in Eldora in just 30 minutes.

Barker Reservoir, Nederland

Imagine weaving your way through an icy canyon in the dead of winter to make it home to your dogs. The experience is usually beautiful, capturing the snow-capped rocks and flurries in the air. But it’s treacherous, too. Nederland is the same way. Residents describe the small town as stubborn and hard-headed, but one of the best places in the state.

“…if you’re tough, independent and don’t want to change the place you move to then you’ll fit in just fine. Nederland was awesome during the lockdown because the neighbors all helped each other,” says Zoe Amrein-Gray.

The average age of the population in Nederland, 48, is a little bit higher than that of Boulder at age 28.8. The whole town has 1,379 residents, making it about 30% smaller than the nearby town of Idaho Springs. Yet its quaint, hippie charm gives the town of Nederland a pretty big reputation.

Situated on the northeastern side of the town of Nederland, Barker Reservoir and Recreation Area is one of the best kept secrets of the region. Located at 9,000 feet in elevation, the area is surrounded by a mixture of spruce and aspen trees, giving it that mountain vibe. While swimming and boating are prohibited on the lake, visitors to the area will almost always be able to spot an angler or nearby hikers exploring the surrounding trails.

Completed in 1910, the Barker Reservoir spans nearly a square mile. Not only does it provide Nederland with its drinking water, but it powers a hydroelectric plant to offset conventional power methods. Accessible all year round, the reservoir provides a getaway for those who need their fill of nature but prefer to stay close to civilization.

The reservoir was named after Mrs. Hannah Connell Barker, who resisted selling the land on which the reservoir is now located. Today, the reservoir is owned by the city of Boulder.

Compared to the rest of Nederland, the Barker Reservoir is peaceful, serene, and often less congested than downtown. Yet it isn’t entirely removed from town. From the western side of the reservoir, you’re just half a mile away from the heart of Nederland, where you can find quaint coffee shops like Salto Coffee and the Nederland Farmers Market, which is one of the locals’ favorite spots in town. It’s operational from May to early October every year.

MacGregor Ranch, Estes Park

The town of Estes Park is seldom quiet. Functioning as the gateway to one of the most popular national parks in the country, this area hosts about 4.5 million visitors every year. Even in the winter, the streets and sidewalks are occupied with out-of-towners. This is one reason why many locals love the quiet outskirts of Estes Park.

MacGregor Ranch is Shani LeRoux-Rod’s favorite part of town. She reflects: “The MacGregor Ranch area of town [is] sooo [sic] pretty and peaceful.”

Located north of downtown Estes Park, MacGregor Ranch is the last working ranch in the area. It doubles as a youth educational center and even has a museum on the premises. After the ranch was built in the late 1800s by a family of homesteaders, it was passed down through three generations of MacGregors. When Muriel MacGregor wrote the ranch into her will and trust, she requested that her ranch be used for educational and philanthropic purposes, which enables it to continue functioning today. The ranch itself is a fun destination, but the region in which it’s located also provides a majestic setting.

Lumpy Ridge Trailhead is located nearby. It’s known for frequent sightings of the most unique wildlife in the area such as elk, moose, and mountain lions. It also features the massive granite outcroppings for which the Rockies are known. This part of Estes Park is one of the most popular areas in the world for rock climbing since it features a wide range of route difficulty levels and multi-pitch climbs. In fact, many of the routes are as long as five pitches in length, attracting some of the most adventurous climbers in the world to the area.

Also located in this area is the Lumpy Ridge Hike, which is 10.7 miles long. It takes visitors along a loop through pine forests and aspen groves. Since it is located within Rocky Mountain National Park, a park pass is required for entrance.

In the same area of Estes Park, visitors will also find the Stanley Hotel, which is best-known for its association with Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Not only is the Stanley Hotel home to a casino, an airstrip, and a shooting range. Today, the hotel hosts spooky events that draw unique visitors all year round.

Longmont Estates, Longmont

Just a short drive north of Denver, Longmont is best known for its rural setting, plentiful open space, and hopping restaurant scene. And it’s no wonder why! Longmont is one of the fastest growing cities in all of Colorado. With a robust economy and great mountain access, it’s an extremely hot destination. However, many locals who spent their lives in the area prefer the calm, quiet side of Longmont. One such place is Longmont Estates, according to Robin Ellert: “[It’s] very quiet and [has] good schools.”

It’s no surprise that families flock to this part of town since its schools provide a supportive and inclusive learning experience. While one issue that many schools face is failing to meet the needs of different ability levels within every class, Longmont Estates Elementary School seems to have cracked the code. Parents of children who attend this school are largely impressed by the staff members, the leadership, and the overall experience that the school provides.

The Longmont Estates area also boasts of numerous parks. Destinations like Hover Park offer residents a place to stretch their legs or let their children run free, while nearby Pratt Park contains sports fields for recreational opportunities.

Additionally, like most of Longmont, Longmont Estates is low in crime. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the whole region has a crime grading of A-, making families feel safe in their respective neighborhood.

One of the drawbacks of Longmont Estates is that it’s somewhat lacking in the culinary pizzazz that the rest of the city has. Those who are looking for a quick bite often find that they have to stray a little further from home to scratch the itch.

McIntosh Lake & Garden Acres, Longmont

Located four miles northwest of downtown Longmont, the McIntosh Lake area of Longmont is one of the best places in the city. Named after the reservoir, this part of Longmont differentiates itself from others due to its waterfront access. While many reservoirs require strict adherences to boating policies, McIntosh Lake is more flexible — non-motorized boats are permitted in the reservoir, which makes it a hub for paddle boarders and kayakers. Swimming is prohibited, and dogs must remain on leash.

In addition to offering water sport opportunities, McIntosh Lake has 3.5 miles of easy trails that many runners and adventurers frequent. And it isn’t uncommon for visitors to spot wildlife like prairie dogs and even eagles. Due to the lake’s popularity, many locals find that the region gets pretty congested over holidays and on the weekends.

McIntosh Lake was first constructed in 1903 to manage incoming waters. About 100 years later, the lake was opened to public recreation, allowing visitors to use boats on the lake.

When it comes to making McIntosh Lake your home, locals find that the area is relatively walkable. Other attractions in this part of town

West Elkhorn, Estes Park

The idyllic town of Estes Park transforms into a childhood dream throughout the holiday season. And most out-of-towners flock to the downtown area to view the glistening lights or the elk wandering through while chewing on salt water taffy. Yet West Elkhorn promises its own delight. Slightly off the beaten path, this part of town is home to a variety of independently-owned businesses that have only changed hands a few times over the past century.

However, what locals love the most about this part of Estes Park is: “Our neighborhood and neighbors. They are amazing.
We stay away from town as much as possible but do enjoy a few places. Donut Haus, Burgers and Gyros, Poppy’s winter specials. Winter drives in the 4×4 up Trail Ridge after timed entry is over,” says local Larry Larson. While much of the tourist crowd comes and goes on a weekly basis, West Elkhorn has a tiny little pocket of people who made it to the town and decided to stay despite the harsh climate.

According to Visit Estes Park, this part of town also sets itself apart in its attractions. “There’s plenty of art to see on West Elkhorn. Bronze sculptures, like Wishful Thinking (Cowboy in the River), beckon. Check out this blog for the full list in Estes, and numbers 5 and 6 specifically on West Elkhorn. The Water Wheel is not only a gift shop, but features an actual water wheel in the river. It’s a great spot to enjoy the sounds of Fall River, and very nearby the previously mentioned bronze statue and a wonderful little playground for the kids to enjoy.”

Despite being slightly removed from the main downtown strip, West Elkhorn features its own delectable cuisine. The Wild Rose Restaurant offers a sophisticated yet accessible menu to those who are interested in trying local protein like trout and elk. And, while many restaurants in Estes Park function on a first-come, first-serve basis, the Wild Rose takes reservations, which can make planning your evening a lot easier. In addition to the Wild Rose Restaurant, this part of town is where you can find Wapiti Pub, which affords beautiful mountain views, the infamous Rocky Mountain oysters, and an all-Colorado beer list.

Additional iconic shops in the region include Mountain Blown Glass, which is both a studio and a gallery. And it is a family-owned business that brings unique and crafty glass pieces to town.

include the city of Longmont’s Garden Acres Park, Centura Hospital, and a golf course. Garden Acres offers a variety of picnic areas, sports fields, parking lots, and playgrounds for year-round use.

“Garden Acres Community Park was initially developed in 1989 and was the third community park built in Longmont. The park was recently updated and features a lighted softball four-plex, soccer fields, batting cages, a cricket pitch, shelters, playgrounds, an irrigation pond and walking paths,” according to the City of Longmont Colorado website. The park was even part of a renewal project in 2018 and 2019, which allowed officials to evaluate and re-establish safe and kid-friendly recreational areas.

While McIntosh Lake is an attraction in the area with its 265-acres of fun, the nearby amenities and family-friendly neighborhoods make it one of the best kept secrets in all of Longmont.

Old Town, Longmont

Old Town is steeped in history, blending old homes with new ones like no other place in town. While much of Longmont is made out of fresh developments, Old Town has a classic charm that feels all-American and separate from the rest. In the summer, this part of Longmont transforms into a place with lots of gatherings that range from concerts to trivia nights, yoga, and exhibits. In the winter, the ice pavilion attracts romance from all around the Foothills.

“Old Town is home to small businesses, charming boutiques, one-of-a-kind restaurants, coffee shops, music venues, art galleries, brew pubs, and much, much more. It’s the site of lively events like summertime festivals, concerts, and art walks. It’s dotted with artwork placed by the city’s Art in Public Places initiative, and is home to many of Longmont’s parks,” states Visit Longmont.

This part of town has a median age of 41.7. The population is about 5700 strong. And 70% of residents have a bachelor’s degree. But one of the attractions that make Old Town different from other parts of Colorado is the Old Town Marketplace. The marketplace is an indoor mall-style experience that provides affordable rental rates to small local businesses. As a result, it houses an eclectic mix of shops selling everything from empanadas and Japanese Kawaii and convenience goods to soaps and toys.

In addition to the Old Town Marketplace, this part of town contains the historical Old Stephen’s Church, which was built in 1881 and still stands proud today. The Episcopal church is fully functional and has grown substantially from its original 45 members. After the congregation relocated, the St. Vrain Historical Society purchased the church in 1976 to save it from demolition. Since its purchase, the church has undergone restorations, and it was ultimately designated as a historical landmark.

Those who are looking for a memorable culinary experience in Old Town should head to the Roost Restaurant & Whiskey Bar to experience an eclectic menu with highlights like Chilean Salmon and Chipotle Bacon Mac. Bootstrap Brewing provides another great destination for those who can appreciate local beer.

One of the greatest highlights of Old Town is the St. Vrain Cidery, which offers some of the most unique drinks available. While you can tantalize your taste buds with conventional ciders at the St. Vrain Cidery, you can also try some of their more interesting flavors like a dry ginger cider, or key lime cider.

Old Town, Erie

Old Town exhibits a distinct charm that blends the town’s history with contemporary growth. Situated within Boulder County, the region is family-friendly, peaceful, clean, walkable, and dog-friendly. Those from the region attest to its community spirit. But one of Old Town’s most striking and memorable features is the maintained historic buildings that date from the 19th and 20th centuries. Adorned with Victorian and Queen Anne architectural styles, they look like a structure you could take directly out of a historical textbook. Then when you step outside, you’re immediately immersed in tree-lined streets where you might be transported to a time when carriages were a common sight.

Old Town differs from the rest of Erie in its emphasis on the arts and culture scene. Many of the streets are decorated with public art installations and murals. Similarly, the local shops contribute to an aesthetic of creativity and curiosity, which is a prominent characteristic of the town. Boutiques that line Old Town’s cobblestone sidewalks often feature handmade crafts, antiques, and local goods.

In addition to Old Town’s quaint shops and creative scene, this part of town has a thriving culinary scene. The Old Mine, for example, features a long list of craft beers that draws connoisseurs from around the state. It also boasts of a long menu with everything from pretzels to pizzas. Visitors with a more refined palette are quick to flock to 24 Carrot Bistro, which is a new-American, farm-to-table restaurant with a simple approach to food. The restaurant’s strong emphasis on local food brings dishes like Crispy Duck Confit to the table, which is served in a parsnip puree with a blood orange sauce. For a quick stroll and a stop at a cafe, locals might recommend Cristos Coffee Boutique Roastery & Cafe or Fox•Dog Coffee.

Old Town Erie lovers are quick to notice the warmth and friendliness of locals while visiting the town. The region exhibits a welcoming, unique, and comfortable environment that seamlessly intertwines the past with the present. Seventy percent of residents in this region are also homeowners, which is a testament to the town’s bustling economy and welcoming atmosphere.

Anthem Highlands, Broomfield

Anthem is a quaint neighborhood that includes three internal villages: Anthem Reserve, Anthem Highlands, and Anthem Ranch. Anthem Reserve is one of Broomfield’s more coveted neighborhoods due to its custom and semi-custom homes. The Hilltop Trailhead runs through this area, attracting active families from the region. Anthem Ranch is a 55+ community that encourages active adults to join the community to live in a peaceful environment. And Anthem Highlands is the third community.

Unlike other parts of Broomfield, Anthem Highlands’ design is extremely meticulous, creating an opportunity for residents to foster a sense of community. It is not uncommon for families to come together for barbecues, celebrations, and sports in the park. During the warmer months, there are even activities for horseshoers, yogis, and swimmers.

Like many areas in the Foothills, Anthem Highlands rests against the backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, giving residents beautiful views on the regular. As an active community, those in this area also take advantage of the extensive network of trails and open spaces. Hikers, bikers, runners, and walkers are regular visitors to its 48 miles of trails and 22 parks, promoting both a healthy lifestyle and a communal culture.

In addition to Anthem Highlands’ trails, it is also home to sports fields and a state-of-the-art recreation center. Families often enjoy group activities within the center, including sports like soccer, basketball, and fitness classes.

Residents of Anthem Highlands highlight the education system as one of the features that they love the most. This area is served by well-regarded schools that are largely committed to providing a high-quality education.

Since Anthem Highlands is somewhat removed from the hustle and bustle of Broomfield, visitors to the area might have the best luck satisfying their appetite a short drive away at Great Scotts Eatery or Hops n Drops. Great Scotts Eatery offers a wide range of milkshakes and burgers and other diner-style food. For breakfast, you might try the Pineapple Upside Down Pancakes or a skillet. Nearby, Hops n Drops is a bar and grill that features classic menu items like nachos and grilled cheese. But it puts a slight twist on those classic flavors. When it’s finally time to relax and unwind, it might be worth sipping a cocktail like an Empress Mojito and snagging an appetizer like the Hawaiian Sriracha Shrimp.

Signal Creek, Thornton

Signal Creek is one of Thornton’s most upscale neighborhoods. The average income in the area is $107,000, and 94% of residents are homeowners. One thing that sets the neighborhood apart from others is that it is located just minutes away from both Interstates 25 and 70 This community has great access to Denver’s main highways, allowing residents to quickly commute to nearby jobs and adventures.

According to Centre Communities: “Signal Creek was one of the first upscale neighborhoods and only the second master-planned community to be built in the City of Thornton. The challenges that Centre faced were two-fold: to weather the depression that hit in the mid-80’s shortly after the project had begun, and to solve the complicated transportation issues that ensnarled the entire region around the site.” Today, this neighborhood offers an array of single-family homes, townhouses, and condominiums to
support different lifestyles.

Some of the highlights of Signal Creek include the Margaret W. Carpenter Recreation Center, which features a 100-acre park and more than 50 miles of biking and hiking paths. The interior features two swimming pools with a 6-lane, 25-yard lap pool and a children’s area. In addition to standard recreational activities, this sports center also offers the community a mixture of different group fitness classes such as Zumba, Deep Water Aqua Fitness, and Silversneakers Splash. The Thornton Sports Complex and Golf Course are also located here, giving residents and visitors access to a great variety of health-oriented activities in which they can participate.

In addition to Signal Creek’s recreation and sports center, there are also a number of trails in the community for walking and jogging including the 6.5-mile Signal Ditch Trail, which pays homage to Thorton’s agricultural history. The community-driven culture of Signal Creek can often be seen in its festivals. For example, there’s a Thornton Winterfest every year that draws locals and visitors together to celebrate the season.

Apple Blossom, Westminster

Situated along the Denver-Boulder Turnpike, the Apple Blossom neighborhood is one of the most charming parts of Westminster. Combining a mixture of affordability and convenience, this part of Westminster attracts commuters. In fact, this region has long been a coveted residential area due to the easy access that it provides to both Denver and the mountains. Those who are lucky enough to call this region their home typically end up in a mid-century modern home that was constructed in the 1950s. Unlike some parts of the Foothills, Apple Blossom still clings to an air of individuality, showcasing some of Colorado’s diversity in terms of design. A handful of different builders contributed to the growth of this neighborhood at the turn of the century.

This part of Westminster was once an apple orchard, which is the inspiration for its name. Like much of the Foothills, it was once rooted in the agricultural industry. Legend has it that each original property in Apple Blossom was given a tree from the orchard and that it’s possible to see them even today.

Residents and visitors alike frequent the gritty and unassuming Big Mamma’s Burritos. Designed to accommodate a quick meal, this restaurant is frequently overlooked. Yet its unique mixture of flavors, untraditional cuisine, and grungy nature make it worth a stop. A few of the community’s favorite picks include the Buffalo Chicken Burrito and the Philly Burrito. A short drive down the road is also Dae Gee Korean BBQ, which features a higher-scale menu including items like Sam Gyeob Sal (pork belly), and Sogogi Bulgogi (rib-eye). Restaurant goers also appreciate the vegetarian menu options from this location.

Westminster is often perceived as a bustling city since it has the 8th largest population in the state, though it’s on a slight decline. About 13% of the population has a graduate degree, and another 27% has a bachelor’s degree. Overall, this region puts an emphasis on education and recreation, supporting the work-life balance in those who call it home.