RiNo/Five Points
The most unique Denver neighborhood. Locals and natives have known most of this area as Historic Five Points. Once called the “Harlem of the West,” Five Points is one of Denver’s oldest, most diverse, and constantly changing neighborhoods. It started as a streetcar suburb back in the 1870s, and its unique street layout – with a grid that bumps up against downtown’s diagonal streets – created a pretty interesting intersection of five streets, which is how it got its name.
A big chunk of the neighborhood is on the National Register of Historic Places and is recognized for its significant role in Black American history. Despite facing decades of racial inequities, Five Points has worked hard to preserve and honor its rich, complex past. Today, it’s a vibrant hub for cultural events, with huge celebrations like Juneteenth and the Five Points Jazz Festival drawing crowds every year.
RiNo or River North is considered "new", is vibrant with nightlife, music, and the most amazing display of graffiti murals in the city. Formerly a virtual wasteland of factories and warehouses, this revival is astounding. From world class dining to music venues and thriving tech startups, the transformation has given life to this part of town. You will know you have arrived when you spot one of the hundreds of graffiti murals scattered throughout. Lastly, RiNo is home to the Denver Beer Trail. Didn’t know that was a thing? Neither did I, but it makes sense considering there is more beer produced in Metro Denver than any other region in the country!