Step Into Five Points: Where Denver’s History Runs Deep and Community Connection Thrives

Historic Charm, Cultural Richness, and Prime City Access Make Five Points One of Denver’s Most Iconic Places to Live

Historic Five Points is where cultures converge and creativity thrives. As one of Denver’s oldest and most diverse neighborhoods, it earned the nickname “Harlem of the West” for hosting jazz legends such as Billie Holiday, Louis Armstrong, and Miles Davis.

Today, that same soulful energy pulses through the neighborhood. You’ll find a dynamic mix of past and present—where museums honor rich Black history, local coffeehouses buzz with innovation, live music spills from intimate venues, and longtime favorites serve up unforgettable soul food.

The name “Five Points” comes from the unique five-way intersection where Washington Street, 27th Street, 26th Avenue, and Welton Street meet—just northeast of downtown Denver. This distinctive crossing was created by the convergence of Denver’s downtown diagonal street grid with the traditional rectangular layout of East Denver.

Here is our guide and top picks for living and exploring the historic Five Points Neighborhood. We absolutely love supporting our local Denver neighborhoods!

Homes

Just minutes from downtown and next to RiNo, Five Points offers quick access to the light rail, A-Line to the airport, and major highways. Walk to local restaurants, breweries, and art galleries, or explore its rich history and vibrant culture. With community parks, historic charm, and a central location, Five Points is one of Denver’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

Architecturally, the area features an impressive mix of housing options to suit a variety of lifestyles and budgets. You'll find everything from beautifully restored Queen Anne, Italianate, and Victorian-style homes dating back to the 1870s—many within designated historic districts to updated residences in Curtis Park that blend exposed brick, original wood beams, and modern open layouts.

Above: Listed by Amy Kissinger and Jane Goulder, 2200 Tremont Place Unit 5 blends historic charm with modern ease in the heart of Five Points complete with a rooftop deck overlooking downtown Denver. Photo Credit: Rankin, Goulder & Kissinger

For fans of contemporary living, sleek lofts and luxury apartments like 2200 Tremont Place Unit 5 provide stylish spaces just minutes from downtown, where Five Points effortlessly combines historic charm with vibrant modern energy.

Things to Do

Enjoy annual events like Five Points First Friday Jazz Hop starting in May, Jazz Roots a Black History Celebration in February or the energetic Juneteenth Music Festival every summer.

Five Points Guide
Above: Taryn Newborne from Atlanta, GA joined Jazz Roots in Five Points in 2024. Photo Credit: Five Points Business Improvement District Facebook.

Black American West Museum: Step into the rich history of the American West through the lens of African American pioneers. Located in the former home of Dr. Justina Ford, Denver’s first Black woman doctor, the museum features exhibits on legendary Black cowboys like Bill Pickett and others who helped shape the frontier. 3091 California St.

Welton Street Cultural District: Take a self-guided walking tour through Denver’s African American history. Along the route, you’ll find historic markers and illustrated signs that tell the powerful stories of people, places, and movements that helped shape the cultural fabric of Five Points and beyond.

Above: Since 1970, Cleo Parker Robinson Dance has served as a global leader in cultural and educational dance and performing arts. Photo Credit: Cleo Parker Robinson Dance Facebook

Cleo Parker Robinson Dance: This world-renowned contemporary dance company celebrates African American heritage through cross-cultural performance and education. Housed in the historic AME Shorter church, CPRD offers dance instruction, professional productions, and community programming for all ages year-round. The building also just received national and state historic landmark status for its cultural influence on the community. 119 Park Ave. W.

Blair‑Caldwell African American Research Library: More than just a library, this cultural hub offers extensive resources on African American and Western history, genealogy, and conservation in the Rocky Mountain region. Serving as both a research center and community museum, it honors the legacy and impact of African Americans in Colorado. Tours and educational programs are available for all ages. 2401 Welton St.

Mo’ Betta Greens Marketplace: Celebrate community and wellness at this vibrant seasonal pop-up, held on weekends from June through October. Enjoy fresh produce, local artisan goods, and live music in a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Food & Drink

Welton Street Cafe: This longtime neighborhood staple serves up comforting American Southern and Caribbean favorites like crispy fried chicken and smothered pork chops in a casual setting. 2883 Welton St. | Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 11am-8pm; Sunday, 11am-6pm

Mercury Café: A cozy, eclectic hangout mixing brunch, vegetarian comfort food, and nightly entertainment ranging from swing dancing to poetry slams. 2199 California St. | Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 5 PM to close (kitchen open until ~9pm)

Where to eat in Denver’s Five Points neighborhood
Above: Welton Street Cafe is a historic, family-owned soul food staple in Five Points. Photo Credit: Welton Street Cafe Facebook.

Full Frame Beer: A collaborative brewery-meets-coffee-shop with house-brewed beers, specialty lattes, and rotating guest taps in a welcoming industrial space. 1139 20th St. | Hours: Daily, 7am-10pm

Woods Boss Brewing Company: From crisp lagers to barrel-aged Belgian quads, this taproom offers a wide range of house-brewed options for every palate—crafted with community in mind. 2210 California St. | Hours: Monday-Tuesday, 2-8pm; Wednesday-Thursday, 2-10pm; Friday-Saturday, 12-10pm; Sunday, 12-7pm

Work & Class: Founded by James Beard nominee Dana Rodriguez, this down-to-earth spot delivers bold Latin-American and Southern-inspired flavors with no-fuss charm and strong drinks to match. 2500 Larimer St. | Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 5pm to close; Happy Hour: 5-6pm Closed: Monday & Tuesday

Above: Hop Alley delivers on atmosphere and unique menu offerings. Photo Credit: Hop Alley Facebook

Hop Alley: This trendy Chinese eatery dishes up modern shared plates alongside curated craft cocktails, beers, and ciders in a sleek, energetic space. 3500 Larimer St. | Hours: Monday-Saturday, 5-10pm, Closed: Sundays

Mister Oso: A vibrant, tropically decorated favorite in RiNo serving bold Mexican-inspired dishes like tacos, cebiche, and crudo—with standout cocktails and a fun, laid-back vibe perfect for any outing. 3163 Larimer St. | Hours: Monday-Thursday: 11am-10pm Friday-Saturday: 11am-11pm Sunday: 11am-10pm

Whether you’re grabbing dinner, exploring neighborhood history, or house hunting, Five Points offers depth, flavor, and community—all just minutes from downtown Denver. It’s a place where imagination and heritage meet at every corner.

If you are considering buying or selling anywhere in the Denver area, reach out to Allison Rankin, Jane Goulder, or Amy Kissinger today!

Allison Rankin, Jane Goulder, Amy Kissinger - Top Colorado Real Estate Agents of Compass Denver

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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Step Into Five Points: Where Denver’s History Runs Deep and Community Connection Thrives