Cheesman Park

Discover the appeal of Cheesman Park, where residents enjoy a unique blend of urban proximity, rich historical character, and a laid-back ambiance. Nestled between Cap Hill and Congress Park, this small enclave possesses its own distinct charm. 

Named after the iconic park within its bounds, Cheesman Park stands as one of Denver’s oldest, established in the late 1800s by some of the city’s most affluent residents. Heavily residential and brimming with culture, this 11-block neighborhood showcases European-influenced mansions, stately Tudors, vintage bungalows, and high-rise condos overlooking the picturesque park — some of the best views of the city!

Cheesman Park itself is a significant neighborhood gathering spot, attracting legions of joggers, walkers, picnickers and sunbathers. Built at elevation, its expansive 80.7 acres serves as the community’s epicenter, offering a relaxing refuge with city and mountain views, all within the city center. Whether you’re spreading a blanket for a leisurely people-watching session, taking a casual stroll along the pathways with your furry friend, there’s always something delightful to experience. You may come across Liz during her regular walks with her beloved black Lab, Elleanor Bigsby. 

Cheesman Park harbors a haunting history that lingers. Originally established as Denver’s first graveyard, the Park’s eerie past comes to life as its present beauty unfolds. When the decision was made to relocate the cemetery to downtown Denver in 1890, the unsettling task of exhuming and transferring the buried bodies ensued. However, not all remains were removed, leaving an unsettling mystery beneath the surface. Speculations persist that approximately 2000 bodies might rest beneath the vibrant flower gardens and winding pathways, adding a ghostly layer to the picturesque charm that defines Cheesman Park today. 

Little Cheesman Park, a charming one-block promenade spanning approximately 4 acres, serves as a delightful precursor to the larger Cheesman Park. With its own unique beauty, this miniature oasis offers a perfect setting to engage in playtime with your canine companion. Residents often gather in the afternoons, transforming the park into a lively scene for “yappy hour,” allowing dogs to frolic and release their pent-up energy. Adjacent to the park lies one of Denver’s finest gems — the Denver Botanic Gardens, an impressive 23-acre park adorned with a conservatory, a variety of themed gardens, and an amphitheater renowned for hosting one of the city’s top summer concert series.

Today, Cheesman Park is a highly sought-after locale, boasting one of the city’s densest populations. Bordered by Colfax Avenue to the north, Eighth Avenue to the south, Josephine/York to the east and Downing Street to the west, this conveniently walkable neighborhood seamlessly intertwines the serenity of a small community with the pulse of modern city living.

• Perfect for: Established families and professionals looking for a quieter retreat
• Favorite outing: The Denver Botanic Gardens, open year round!
• Date idea: Head to Cheesman’s neo-classical pavilion to enjoy a picnic lunch or book a ghost tour to learn about the Park’s storied and spooky past 
• Take a walk: Down tree-lined streets and enjoy the diverse architecture and smattering of mansions along the way