Hip, Lively, but still Family Friendly (Denver, Boulder: job, homes, university)

[2kids2dogs]

My husband may soon be taking a job in Broomfield and we're coming out to look at Denver/Boulder neighborhoods next week. We're used to living in an intown neighborhood in Atlanta and having alot of interesting things to do--good restaurants, good shopping and quirky neighborhoods. We also have 2 kids in elementary school so need a good school district although private/parochial is an option if necessary.

We prefer older homes, or at least no stucco Mc Mansions, and the further you can get me from an Olive Garden or T.G.I. Fridays, the better.

For the purposes of this discussion, price is not a consideration.

Thanks!

[dj32]

there are several threads on this subject- denver neighborhoods,etc... especially recently so I'd definitely search the forum.
A few to consider that meet your criteria (but could be eliminated depending on your price range- you said intown neighborhood in Atlanta so I'm going to guess Buckhead, Virginia Highlands, etc... so price range may be comparable)

Wash Park- especially the east side is comparable to Virginia Highlands
Bonnie Brae
Observatory Park- near DU
North Country Club- walkable to Cherry Creek. You woudl want to be in Bromwell to public schools however.
Highlands (close to downtown but would likely want to do private/paraochial)- very eclectic, great restaurants too
Platte Park- check on public schools though, not sure
University Hills- close by DU.

My first recommendation is Wash Park (b/c I live here, ha ha) For all of the above, I am not sure where the Olive Garden/TGI Fridays is so I think you are safe in that respect.

[Bradburn1]

You should definitely have a look at Louisville, esp near their downtown which is filled with independent shops and restaurants, and is very family friendly. 10 min from Broomfield. Once again this year high on list of best places in America to live.

A bit more on the funkier/grittier side would be Lafayette (also near their downtown) which is also fun and about 5-8 minutes from Broomfield.

Honestly, I don't think you can beat Boulder for funk, but it comes at a price!


Good luck!