Washington Park
Denver's gold standard — 165 acres of park-centric urban living
Why People Move Here
Washington Park transcends typical Denver neighborhoods. The 165-acre namesake park — two lakes, paddleboat rentals, Denver's largest flower garden, a 2.6-mile loop trail, and a Martha Washington garden replica — anchors daily life for 10,900 residents. South Pearl and South Gaylord Streets form a dining corridor that includes Sushi Den (37 years, daily Japan-sourced fish) and a planned Denchu omakase from the Kizaki brothers. Median home prices ($1.2M–$1.6M) reflect premium status, but the Walk Score (61–76), strong schools (South High A−, Steele A−), and genuine community events (July 4th parade, monthly markets) create a neighborhood where the premium buys a lifestyle, not just a house.
Key Statistics
Data sourced from census records, school district reports, and local transit authorities.
Commute Times
School Districts
Denver Public Schools
B+- South High School — A− (Niche), #44 CO, Roman basilica-style building, 1,846 students
- Steele Elementary — A− (Niche), top-performing DPS elementary, Art Deco
- 47% math / 70% reading proficiency (South HS)
- 60+ clubs, championship sports programs
FAQ — Washington Park
What are the school ratings in Washington Park?
Washington Park is served by Denver Public Schools, rated B+ by Niche. South High School holds an A− rating and is ranked #44 among Colorado public high schools, housed in a Roman basilica-style building with 1,846 students and 60+ clubs. Steele Elementary is rated A− and is one of the top-performing DPS elementary schools, featuring Art Deco architecture. South High reports 47% math and 70% reading proficiency.
What is the commute from Washington Park to downtown Denver?
Washington Park is approximately 4 miles south of downtown via Speer Blvd. Off-peak drives take 10–15 minutes, extending to 20–35 minutes during rush hour. RTD bus lines 11 and 12 serve the area directly, and the University of Denver Station provides D, H, and L line light rail service to downtown.
What is the median home price in Washington Park?
The median home price in Washington Park ranges from $1.2M to $1.6M, with Zillow at ~$1.2M and Redfin at ~$1.6M as of March 2026. The wide range reflects the mix of historic and new construction homes. Price per square foot averages ~$523, up 5.1% year-over-year, and homes average 43 days on market.
What parks and outdoor recreation are available in Washington Park?
Washington Park spans 165 acres and features Smith Lake (fishing, paddleboat and kayak rentals in summer), Grasmere Lake, a 2.6-mile jogger-only loop trail, Denver’s largest flower garden, and a Mt. Vernon Garden replica. The Washington Park Recreation Center offers an indoor pool, gym, tennis, basketball, and lawn bowling.
What are the crime statistics in Washington Park?
Washington Park averages 0.7 violent crimes per month (2025), ranking among Denver’s lowest. The property crime rate is 54.4 per 1,000, which is 22% below the city average. The neighborhood ranks in the 24th percentile, with north Washington Park being the lowest-crime sub-area at a 1-in-23 risk.
What is the cost of living in Washington Park?
Denver’s cost of living index is 128, or 28% above the national average per BestPlaces. Property taxes run ~0.50% effective (~79.2 mills), combined sales tax is 9.15%, and Colorado’s flat state income tax is 4.4%. Median household income in Washington Park ranges from $119K to $191K.
What are the top restaurants and dining options in Washington Park?
Washington Park’s South Pearl and South Gaylord corridors offer established dining: • Sushi Den — 37+ years, daily fish flown from Japan, Denver’s most acclaimed sushi • Barolo Grill — Northern Italian fine dining, award-winning cellar • Potager — farm-to-table • Devil’s Food Bakery — scratch pastries since 1999 on South Gaylord • Lucile’s Creole Cafe — beignets and chicory coffee, 45+ minute weekend waits • Stella’s Coffee House — converted house since 1991, stained glass and bookshelves
What healthcare facilities are near Washington Park?
Denver Health Medical Center is approximately a 10-minute drive away. Denver Health Adult Urgent Care at 660 Bannock Street is open 7am–7pm daily, and Denver Health also offers virtual urgent care. Denver Health Pediatric ED at 777 Bannock Street provides 24/7 emergency services.
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