Located in south Denver, this quiet, established suburb has long been a favorite of locals seeking an oasis amid an expanding city. Hampden’s windy streets are shaded with old trees and its home prices steadily rise while still remaining affordable compared to other Denver hot spots.

Here’s what it’s like living in Hampden.

Neighborhood Vibes

Far from the urban buzz that many of Denver’s downtown neighborhoods offer, Hampden is a sleepy hamlet with varied demographics. New renters and long-time residents live side by side in a mix of charming ranch homes and modest condos. Hampden’s perks lie in its open space, outdoor access, and convenient location. Residents spend the weekends outside on the myriad of trails and paths that run through Hampden’s secluded neighborhoods. While the neighborhood is bounded by I-25, it certainly doesn’t have a big-city feel.

Things to Do

Hampden is often described as suburbia surrounded by commerce, meaning that it’s possible for residents to live, work, and play without journeying too far from home. While it certainly has its fair share of big-box stores, including Target, Whole Foods, and Ace Hardware, the neighborhood is also home to notable family-run eateries and interesting retail shops. 

Hampden is perfectly positioned to offer residents access to a host of activities and entertainment. Fiddlers’ Green, Top Golf, and Cherry Creek Country Club are just a stone’s throw from Hampden. The Cherry Creek State Park reservoir sees a number of boaters, kayakers, and swimmers each summer and makes for a perfect day at the beach.

Getting Around

Conveniently located near I-25 and 225, Hampden provides residents with direct access to Denver’s main thoroughfares. The neighborhood also offers a Light Rail stop at Southmoor Station and a bus stop at South Yosemite and Hampden Avenues. However, residents may find that biking around the neighborhood is the best way to get around. An e-bike makes running errands fun and easy with Hampden’s many sidewalks and wide neighborhood streets.

Real Estate

Unlike some of Denver’s other neighborhoods, Hampden’s real estate is still very affordable for those looking to buy a home in this southern enclave. From single-family homes to elegant apartments to spacious condos, Hampden boasts a variety of houses for sale. Prices vary from just under $200,000 for one-bedroom townhomes to $625,000 for sprawling family homes. The market is competitive as Hampden becomes increasingly desirable and Denver’s central neighborhoods price out many potential homebuyers. It’s common that offers are accepted with contingencies waived within a few days of listing.

Award-Winning Dining

Hampden is home to The Bagel Deli and Restaurant as seen on “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” It's always crowded and never fails to delight bagel lovers from all over. Order a pastrami sandwich and receive a six-inch-high stack of freshly sliced corn beef on toothy, toasted rye. 

Sip a soul-soothing cup of tea from Kung Fu Tea House, hit up Sushi Train’s awesome all-you-can-eat menu for deals on fresh fish, or warm up during cold winter months with a hot bowl of chicken tikka masala from the long-time and beloved India’s Restaurant. For Vietnamese food, residents can take their pick from two authentic restaurants, Pho 63 and Pho Bom, that sit on the boundary line between Hampden and Hampden South.

Outdoor Spaces

Hampden is home to two sprawling parks: the James A. Bible Park and Hentzel (Paul A) Park. Bible Park consists of athletic fields, trails, a playground, and Goldsmith Gulch. Cherry Creek splits Hentzel Park down the middle and provides a beautiful waterfront spot for a picnic. 

Additional parks pepper the neighborhood, including Babi Yar Park, Hampden Heights Park, and Golden Key Park. Cyclists, runners, and walkers can easily connect the parks through sidewalks and trails for a beautiful afternoon in nature. Cherry Creek State Park is just southeast of Hampden and is a local favorite for summer recreation. Stand up paddleboard for a unique workout or gather the gang and play beach volleyball.

Golf enthusiasts are sure to love the convenient access to three renowned golf courses, all within a few miles of the neighborhood. Cherry Creek Country Club offers an 18-hole course on beautifully manicured grass while Wellshire Golf Course gives the feel of a country club but at an affordable price. Kennedy Golf Course offers night golfing, a nine-hole course, and a foot golf course, making this a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels.

Bottom Line

Hampden is Denver’s counteroffer to its busier neighborhoods like LoDo, Cap Hill, and the Highlands. This sleepy haven provides respite to those still desiring to live in a city but without the business and inconvenience that can sometimes accompany a metropolitan atmosphere. Convenience is key in Hampden, and residents will be able to retreat when they want yet still access awesome restaurants, outdoor recreation, and community activities. Hampden strikes the balance between urban and suburban dwelling, making it a sweet spot to live for Colorado transplants and locals alike.