Cherry Creek is Defined by Exceptional Dining, Shopping & Year-Round Events

Neighborhood Spotlight: Cherry Creek is Defined by Exceptional Dining, Shopping & Year-Round Events

Six decades at the forefront of Denver's affluence and opulence, this neighborhood remains unparalleled in its allure

With a rich history spanning over sixty years, Cherry Creek in Denver has been the place of residence for some of Colorado's most prosperous individuals and families.

Situated just miles from downtown Denver, the Cherry Creek neighborhood combines dense urban development with tree-lined residential streets. The neighborhood is bounded by the Cherry Creek to the south, East Sixth Avenue to the north, and University Boulevard and Colorado Boulevard (Colorado State Highway 2) to the west and east, respectively.

We've previously highlighted some of the dining and happy hour spots in Cherry Creek North, but the area offers much more. Home to both Cherry Creek North and the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, the Cherry Creek neighborhood boasts over 300 stores, 75 cafes and restaurants, 50 spas and salons, and five hotels in a mere 16 city blocks delivering an authentic experience and a lively atmosphere for lodging, dining, and shopping. This neighborhood is also the backdrop for various signature events throughout the year. From live music to art festivals, there's a vibrant array of activities to enjoy.

With our office in the heart of Cherry Creek, we get the opportunity to spend quality time in this neighborhood, and we just love it!

Here are our top picks for the spectacular Cherry Creek Neighborhood:

Restaurants, Lounges & Treats

Toro Lounge Cherry Creek

A Toro margarita is the perfect blend of blanco tequila, orange liqueur, zesty lime, mango puree, sweet simple syrup, and a Tajin rim for that extra kick (photo credit: Toro Facebook)

Toro Latin Kitchen & Lounge: Drawing inspiration from the convivial dining culture of Central and South America, Toro Denver introduces a ceviche bar, small plates, and family-style entrees. Complemented by hand-muddled cocktails, local beer, and wine, the atmosphere is relaxed and inviting. Toro encourages you to partake in the experience of sharing authentic Latin ingredients, savoring international flavors, and indulging in artfully crafted dishes.
Located at 150 Clayton Lane Ste. B | Hours vary by day see their website for updated operating hours

Elway's Cherry Creek: Elway's provides the perfect setting for every occasion. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, anniversary, entertaining business associates, meeting friends for cocktails, or simply savoring an exceptional meal, you'll experience genuine hospitality in an environment that captures the essence of Colorado.Enjoy complimentary concerts throughout the summer on their fantastic patio.
Located at 2500 E First Avenue Unit 101 | Open Tuesday though Saturday 4:00pm – 9:00pm

North Italia: With immense pride in using only the finest ingredients to craft and serve consistently crave-worthy food, including chef's choice daily pizza and freshly made pasta, crafted from scratch each day North Italia has something special for everyone. From the inviting warmth that embraces you to the vibrant energy that promises something extraordinary, the North Italia experience beckons you to indulge not only in the taste but also in the emotions it evokes. Offering weekend brunch, happy hour, kids, lunch and dinner menus. Reservations can be booked online. RGK Team Favorite
Located at 190 Clayton Lane | Open daily 11am - 10pm Monday - Thursday, 11am - 11pm Friday/Saturday and 11am - 9pm Sunday

Cherry Creek Guide: The Cherry Cricket Best Burger in Cherry Creek

The Cherry Cricket is a Denver staple offering an unassuming atmosphere and an out-of-this-world burger. (photo credit: The Cherry Cricket Facebook)

The Cherry Cricket: Nestled within an unassuming brick and mortar structure on 2nd Ave, proudly serving burgers, brews, and creating memorable moments since 1945. The Cricket is a cherished haven where you can always count on finding a delectable burger, a refreshing cold beer, and the company of good friends. Amidst the ever-changing world around us, these fundamental values will forever remain steadfast, making The Cricket an everlasting beacon of warmth and delight. RGK Team Favorite
Located at 2641 E 2nd Ave | Open daily 11am -2am.

Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls: Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls prioritizes simplicity and indulgence in every bite. Their lobster rolls are crafted following tradition—no frills, no fuss, just the essentials: Lemon. Butter. Mayo. Perhaps a touch of celery. Keeping it straightforward, allowing you to savor the pure essence of the dish without any unnecessary distractions.  
Located at 2415 East 2nd Street | Open daily 11am - 9pm  

Moxy Bar: At Moxy Bar, the doors are open from morning till late-night, ready to embrace you at any time. Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast and a cup of freshly brewed coffee, savor creative cocktails to toast your triumphs, or indulge in our innovative and delightful American restaurant cuisine whenever your cravings strike. There's always a reason to be here.  
Located at 240 Josephine Street | Open Monday & Sunday 6:30am - 12 am, Tuesday - Saturday 6:30am -1:00am.   

narrative.: Introducing a fresh discussion point and a gathering spot in Denver's iconic Cherry Creek neighborhood, narrative presents a culinary experience with rich stories. The approachable menu showcases modern American dishes, globally inspired shareable plates, a vibrant happy hour, and more.
Located at 222 Milwaukee Street | Monday - Friday 6:30 AM TO 11:00 PM | Saturday - Sunday 7:00 AM TO 11:00 PM Daily Happy Hour - 2:30 PM 5:00 PM  

Chez Roc: Chez Roc is a Moroccan-inspired cocktail lounge offering live DJs and creative signature drinks. Situated on the first floor of Clayton Members Club & Hotel, Chez Roc welcomes walk-ins on weekends and is also available for private events throughout the week.
Located at 229 Clayton street | Open Friday and Saturday 9PM -2AM  

Heaven Creamery: Boasting over 500 flavors of frozen desserts in rotation, Heaven Creamery aims to rekindle the appreciation for the delectable taste of homemade treats. They prioritize using natural and wholesome ingredients, steering clear of processed sugar, artificial flavors, colors, additives, or ice cream fillers to deliver a truly delightful frozen dessert experience.
Located at 299 Milwaukee St | Open Monday through Thursday 12:00pm – 9:30pm| Friday, Saturday 12:00pm – 10:30pm & Sunday 12:00pm – 9:30pm

Enstrom Candies, Inc. : Explore the home of internationally renowned almond toffee, crafted with a delicate blend of sweet cream butter, pure cane sugar, and paper shell California almonds coated in decadent Guittard chocolate. Additionally, indulge in an extensive array of delectable confections, homemade ice cream, and refreshing coffee beverages to satisfy your cravings. 
Located at 201 University Blvd #118 | Open Monday - Friday 7am - 6pm, Saturday 8am - 6pm & Sunday 10am - 5pm

Cherry Creek Guide: Enstrom Toffee Cherry Creek

The world famous Enstrom toffee makes the perfect addition to any holiday celebration.

For more Cherry Creek Dining options see our full article Cherry Creek North Offers Fantastic Dining, Coffeehouses and Chic City Vibes

Things To Do in Cherry Creek

Cherry Creek North Shopping

Above: Cherry Creek North Shopping district offers guests a wide variety of the finest options in retail.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center: Is the ultimate destination for luxury fashion and jewelry, featuring renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Hugo Boss, Tag Heuer, and Rolex. Beyond high-end fashion, the area also hosts an array of specialty shops offering exquisite kitchenware, cutlery, fine wines, exotic tobaccos, spirits, children's stores, as well as establishments specializing in fine instruments, tools, outdoor and recreation supplies. Whether seeking top-tier fashion or unique treasures, Cherry Creek is the go-to place for finding something truly extraordinary.

Cherry Creek North Shopping District: Cherry Creek North spans 16 city blocks and offers a mix of locally-owned enterprises and nationally renowned brands. Encompassing a diverse range of shops, restaurants, salons, spas, and service providers, the area's Fillmore Plaza, situated on Fillmore Street between First and Second Avenues, serves as a vibrant hub for community events, hosting highlights such as the Cherry Creek North Food & Wine event in the summer and the Cherry Creek Arts Festival.

Cherry Creek North Live & Local: Embark on a journey of surprises and delights every Saturday in June (dates TBD), where the neighborhood comes alive with acoustic melodies and captivating art at every turn. Whether you're strolling with your furry friend or enjoying a shopping spree with friends, come join us for an unforgettable experience that will awaken your senses and fuel your creative inspiration.

Cherry Creek Arts Festival, Cherry Creek Guide
Above: Cherry Creek Arts Festival features over 200 local artists each year. This annual event is a must for locals. Photo Credit: CherryArts Facebook

Cherry Creek Arts Festival: Discover inspiration, foster connections through art, and broaden your perspective at the Cherry Creek Arts Festival—an annual event transforming the streets of Cherry Creek North into a vibrant showcase featuring over 250 juried artists. From July 5 to 7, 2024, immerse yourself in live music, engaging kids' activities, diverse art displays, insights into art education, delectable food, and much more.

Cherry Creek Sidewalk Sale: From Thursday, July 11 to Sunday, July 14, 2024 don't miss Denver's standout sale of the year. Join in the excitement as numerous retailers, restaurants, fitness studios, art galleries, salons, spas, and more line the sidewalks of the Mile High City's premier shopping and dining destination, offering irresistible discounts. In its 54th year, Cherry Creek North proudly hosts this much-anticipated four-day event. Keep an eye out for the red balloons to ensure you snag the best deals!

Cherry Creek Trail: Starting from Confluence Park and tracing the Cherry Creek southeastward to Cherry Creek State Park, the 40-mile Cherry Creek Trail winds its way to Cherry Creek Reservoir and eventually reaches Franktown. Much of the trail in Denver runs below Speer Boulevard, offering a tranquil separation from the bustling street above. Easily accessible from various roads, ramps, and city parks like Sunken Gardens, Alamo Placita Park, and Four Mile Historic Park, the trail is a favored route for joggers, bikers, scooter riders, and other enthusiasts alike.

Homes

Living in Cherry Creek, Denver Neighborhood Spotlight

Above: 401 Adams Street, a beautiful 5299 square-foot townhome in one of the best locations in Cherry Creek North sold for $3,200,000 by Rankin, Goulder & Kissinger in 2023 and epitomizes the luxury lifestyle that many in Cherry Creek desire. (photo: Rankin, Goulder & Kissinger)

The initial homes in Cherry Creek were modest but, after Buell's development of Denver Dry Goods, the neighborhood surged in popularity among Denver's affluent. Constructed between the 1950s and 1980s, the houses became some of Colorado's largest and most distinguished, primarily featuring brick or stick construction, although some resembled turn-of-the-century homes in Capitol Hill with solid rock. Predominantly elegant two-story residences tailored for single families, they marked the first phase of Cherry Creek's architectural evolution.

Between the mid-'70s and 2000, the implementation of Cherry Creek's inaugural Development Plan sparked substantial economic growth, leading to a renewed wave of development. However, this period saw a departure from the original architectural style, as new homes became larger and more opulent, deviating from the previous stacked layout. Developers expanded lot sizes and constructed homes covering the footprint of two or three pre-existing structures.

Homes in Cherry Creek, Denver Neighborhood Spotlight

Above: Another look from above 401 Adams Street in Cherry Creek, perfectly situated near shopping, dining and nightlife and just a short drive away from Downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains. (photo: Rankin, Goulder & Kissinger)

The modern residences in Cherry Creek are the epitome of upper-class living, boasting a plethora of interior amenities such as hardwood and marble floors, grand studies, indoor swimming pools, bathroom jacuzzis, and multiple bathrooms surpassing the count of bedrooms. The exterior grounds are equally extravagant, encompassing circle drives, driveway fountains, multi-car offset garages, hanging patios, multi-tiered swimming pools, courtyards, and art deco privacy fences.

It comes as no surprise that the Cherry Creek neighborhood is thriving in 2024 and into the future. With an abundance of entertainment and numerous avenues for connection, this community, just outside downtown Denver, has created a utopia for everyone to relish. Whether you call Cherry Creek home or are a visitor, its distinctiveness becomes evident, making it truly special.

For more information on the history of Cherry Creek, as well as to stay connected with community events, explore cherrycreekchamber.org.

Whether you're considering buying or selling anywhere in the Denver area, reach out to Allison Rankin, Jane Goulder, or Amy Kissinger today! Whether you're a first-time buyer, an investor, or an experienced buyer looking to upsize or downsize, we possess the experience, resources, and relationships to assist you. Let us help you embark on your next chapter in the Denver area!

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