30 single with no desire for Cherry Creek (Denver, Berkley: lofts, condos)

[mls]

I am 30 years old, single and looking for something which may not exist. I have been living in the Back Bay in Boston for the last 4 years and do not want to repeat the experience in Cherry Creek (similar more upscale, professional, financial sector driven scene). I don't want to feel like it is the east coast culture transplanted into the middle of the country.

I will be moving to either Minneapolis or Denver at the end of the year. I am originally from the midwest and after 7 years on the east coast am hoping to find the more laid back and friendly culture I grew up in. I want to be somewhere with good walking trails, easy access to hiking and biking and a laid back (potentially artsy) atmosphere. I would love a townhome with a great view, which feels isolated, but which is still walkable to coffee. Additionally, although I don't want to be in young professional central (families and dogs are great neighbors!) I also don't want to be the only single girl on the block.

My most important requirements are: peaceful, walkable, safe, and commutable to Denver without going crazy (preferably no more than 45 minutes).

Will I be able to find this, or am I better off looking to the friendlier midwest?

[2bindenver]

I'd look at Highlands, Sunnyside & Berkley - fun, funky, walkable.

There are some "affordable" deed restricted lofts in Lower Downtown (LoDo)

[tfox]

Cherry Creek area is easily avoided if you don't like that scene, not that normal people could afford it anyway. I agree with 2bindenver that North Denver (Highlands/Sunnyside/Berkeley) would be an excellent choice with none of the pretension of Cherry Creek to be found. I also like Central Denver -- you could probably find what you're looking for around Congress Park, for example. Wash Park is a great neighborhood and worth looking into, but it's sadly becoming more expensive. Another neighborhood to check out would be Platt Park and the area around Old South Pearl, which is to the west of DU.

[dj32]

Agree with 2bindenver about North Denver- highlands/berkeley would be an excellent choice. Platte Park is a good option, although there are few townhomes. You may want to check out the new Light Rail Condos at Clarkson and Louisiana as well. They are right by the new light rail stop and convenient for work, Washington Park and Platte Park. There is a coffee shop/market downstairs and a wine bar around teh corner. Very non-pretentious.

[mls]

Thanks everyone! Very helpful!! I will definately check out your suggestions once I really start looking!

Thanks again