Known by locals as Wash Park, Denver’s Washington Park is a neighborhood located in the south-central area of the city. Offering great proximity to downtown Denver in a friendly residential community, Washington Park continues to be one of Denver’s most sought-after neighborhoods. Built around the 165-acre park for which the region was named, this neighborhood boasts an array of architectural styles from the iconic Denver Square traditional homes to updated contemporaries. This historic and eclectic mix of styles, combined with acres of green space and a myriad of amenities, makes it ideal for everyone including young professionals, growing families and longtime locals. Area residents and merchants take pride in everything their neighborhood has to offer and, in turn, celebrates the community with events and activities that take place throughout the year.  

Washington Park Sports and Athletic Events

Wash Park is well-known for the many outdoor sports and athletic events offered on the spacious grounds. The coed volleyball leagues on Wednesday nights are a great way to wind down after work and socialize. There are also tennis leagues held at the south courts that range from beginning to advanced. Finally, you’ll find an assortment of walks and runs that benefit various charities and causes. The next scheduled race in Washington Park is the Race for Research, Aug. 19. Check out Run Guides to find other upcoming events.

If you prefer an indoor workout, visit the Washington Park Recreation Center, operated by the City of Denver. Located within Washington Park, this facility has a weight room, indoor pool, gym and cardio room with stationary bikes, treadmills and other cardio machines. A variety of group classes are available including yoga, zumba and HIIT, swim lessons and senior citizen classes.

Explore South Gaylord Street

Situated six blocks east of Washington Park, browse the shops and restaurants located on South Gaylord Street. This charming neighborhood boasts an array of boutiques and eating establishments, sure to please the most discriminating shopper and foodie. You’ll soon discover why people have enjoyed this area of Denver for decades.

South Pearl Street Annual Festivals

One of the crown jewels of the Washington Park area is South Pearl Street, located just a little over a mile southwest of the park. This quaint and bustling shopping district between Buchtel and Jewell Avenues hearkens back to a time before the rise of shopping malls. South Pearl Street exudes charm with tree-lined streets filled with unique shops and boutiques, restaurants and lively entertainment venues. Seasonal festivals are one of the highlights of South Pearl Street which brings together neighbors and visitors alike.

With a nod toward the famed German festival, South Pearl Street’s own Oktoberfest is the perfect way to end summer and welcome the fall season. Held on the 1500 block of South Pearl Street, Oktoberfest is a day filled with fantastic beer, authentic German cuisine and great live bands. Crowd-pleasing activities such as keg bowling, a stein holding competition and a jousting house make this one of Denver’s hottest events. 

Taking place over two days, South Pearl Street’s Winterfest sets the stage for the holiday season and the start of winter. Encompassing the 1200 to 1900 blocks of South Pearl Street, this magical wonderland helps the neighborhood come alive with a host of gift vendors, specialty foods and open houses. With horse-drawn sleigh rides, caroling and an open-air marketplace, Winterfest has something for everyone.

South Pearl Street Farmers Market

Since 2001, the South Pearl Street Farmers Market has been serving the south Denver metro area and is a great community event that is held every May through November. Every Sunday morning, this farmers’ market highlights the bounty of seasonal produce and artisanal products from over 100 purveyors. In addition to the fresh produce and unique products, special events are held throughout the 27 week season including a car show, a pet adoption fair and a chili cook-off.

Usaj Realty is a boutique real estate brokerage firm specializing in Denver’s most popular neighborhoods. We help our clients find everything from the classic vintage home to a more modern condo. For more information about buying or selling a home in Denver’s dynamic Washington Park neighborhood, please contact us.