Best Neighborhoods in Golden, Colorado

Whenever prospective homebuyers begin to explore Colorado as an option, most thoughts lead to Denver. 

Colorado’s most populous city has plenty to offer, from exciting neighborhoods to distinctive home styles. But a short, 25-minute drive west will take you to a much smaller city, with a history big enough to easily compete with Denver and entice any homebuyer looking for some of the best nature Colorado has to offer. 

Golden sits at the base of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains. The breathtaking panoramas buyers can expect here are some of the most coveted in the entire state. The stunning Clear Creek winds its way through the city, conjuring an atmosphere of a mountain getaway that’s a stone’s throw away from Denver’s center.

Though small in size, Golden has a unique collection of boutique neighborhoods, each with something special to offer, whether it’s local shops and home-grown eateries, or direct access to some of the best outdoor recreation you can find in Colorado.

Below, the Prevu Real Estate team will guide you through the top neighborhoods of one of Colorado’s most historic cities, from Tablerock's mesmerizing mountain views to Mesa View Estates' luxurious housing stock.

Best neighborhoods in Golden, Colorado

• Downtown Golden
• Mesa Meadows
• Applewood West
• Golden Ridge
• Mesa View Estates
• South Golden
• Tablerock

Downtown Golden

Almost every neighborhood in Golden pays homage to its rich history and Historic Downtown Golden is no different.

The famous Gold Rush of 1858 led prospectors to Colorado, and within a year, Golden City was established, which laid the foundation for what is now known as Golden. The area developed so quickly that it eventually became the capital of the recently recognized Colorado Territory, only ceding the title to Denver in 1867 after losing a fierce railroad competition between the two cities. 

The city center today still carries the familiar, small-town feel that always characterized Golden. You won’t find any skyscrapers or tall buildings blocking out the majestic views of the mountains. Many shops and eateries still feature wooden porches and an old-time charm that sets a unique atmosphere residents can enjoy daily.

The unique perk of Downtown Golden is that you do not have to sacrifice peace and quiet to be closer to a more developed hub. Traffic is often calm, outdoor recreation is a stone’s throw away, and the best attractions Golden has to offer are just around the corner.

The iconic Coors Brewery offers tours four days a week, the weekly Golden Farmers Market showcases some of the best local produce, and the Golden History Museum and Park are prime places to get to know the city's richness.

Clear Creek, which runs through the heart of downtown, is the neighborhood’s favorite for outdoor activities, including kayaking and paddle boarding. The nearby Parfet Park allows residents to explore the numerous hiking trails available along the river’s banks. 

Shopping and dining options are as numerous as you would expect from a city’s Downtown neighborhood. Though Golden may not seem like a hub for international cuisine at first glance, you can find everything from authentic Mexican spots, such as Bonfire Burritos and El Dorado, to savory Mediterranean at Amir’s Grill. Of course, classic American fare is omnipresent in Golden, with renowned eateries like the Cast Iron Tavern serving up iconic American dishes.

Downtown Golden is also celebrated for its cultural sites, including the Colorado Railroad Museum, and artistic events, such as the Golden Fine Arts Festival, which draws artists and enthusiasts from all over the country.

Mesa Meadows

If your first impression of Golden was it’s Downtown, a short drive north to Mesa Meadows will give you the first taste of Golden’s cozy suburban neighborhoods. Like many neighboring areas, Mesa Meadows is primarily residential, characterized by its winding, elevated streets and stunning views. However, the immediate proximity to Downtown Golden makes it almost unnecessary for the neighborhood to be stuffed with stores and eateries. 

That being said, Mesa Meadows also boasts a few of its own popular local spots, like the Cannonball Brewery and its selection of unique brews and Amir’s Grill, which serves up classic Mediterranean dishes. 

Undoubtedly, one of the defining features of Mesa Meadows is its easy access to the great outdoors. 

At the forefront of these outdoor attractions is North Table Mountain, which serves as a majestic backdrop to Mesa Meadows. This natural plateau offers extensive trails for hiking and mountain biking, which are especially popular during the spring and summer months. 

The trails provide varying degrees of difficulty, catering to both novice adventurers and experienced enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the open spaces around North Table Mountain are perfect for picnics, bird watching, and even seasonal wildflower viewing, making it a versatile recreation area for all ages.

Real estate options are primarily single-family homes, strewn out through the hilly terrain of the picturesque neighborhood. Prices will largely depend on how good a view the property will have, but curious homebuyers will undoubtedly have a nice selection of unique homes to choose from if they decide to settle in Mesa Meadows.

Applewood West

Known for its lush landscapes and spacious properties, Applewood offers residents a peaceful residential experience with the added benefit of proximity to both the natural beauty of Colorado and the metropolitan advantages of nearby Denver. 

Applewood is technically a Census Designated Place in Jefferson County, yet a part of the area, Applewood West, reaches into Golden, making it a strong option for buyers interested in living within the city.  

Originally developed in the mid-20th century, Applewood’s history strays from the mad rush of gold prospecting and instead centers on farming. The farmstead lifestyle eventually gave way to once-thriving apple orchards, from which the neighborhood derives its name.

The real estate landscape in Applewood features a diverse array of housing options, from charming mid-century single-family homes to more contemporary residences, catering to a wide range of tastes and budget considerations. These homes are often set on larger lots, providing ample outdoor space for gardening and entertainment. The architectural styles reflect a community that values both tradition and modernity, appealing to those who appreciate aesthetic diversity and comfort.

The neighborhood is dotted with parks and recreational areas such as Maple Grove Park and South Table Mountain, each enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Applewood also features two prominent golf courses, The Applewood Golf Course and The Club at Rolling Hills, which offer stunning views of nearby mountains and nature while also serving as community hubs for social gatherings.

Another vital perk worth mentioning is location. Applewood isn’t just close to Downtown Golden; it's also a 20-minute drive to Downtown Denver, which means residents can enjoy the best of both worlds: suburban comfort and all the amenities of Colorado’s capital city.

Golden Ridge

One of the tiniest neighborhoods in Golden, Golden Ridge offers some of the most coveted condominiums available in the city while still boasting access to single-family homes, unique outdoor attractions, and plenty of gorgeous views.

Like all of Golden’s neighborhoods, outdoor recreation is a natural part of Golden Ridge’s lifestyle, enhancing the appeal for active residents and nature lovers. The neighborhood is ideally positioned near several major natural attractions, including the famous Lookout Mountain and the expansive Golden Gate Canyon State Park. These areas provide endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation that are unique to the state.

While the major outdoor attractions may require a bit of a drive, the local Heritage Dells Park offers locals breathtaking views without having to leave the neighborhood limits, along with a basketball court, playgrounds, and even a sledding hill to take advantage of during the winter months.

Golden Ridge is exclusively residential but benefits from its proximity to the heart of Downtown Golden, which allows residents to access the historic area’s unique art festivals, restaurants, and museums within minutes. 

Mesa View Estates

If you’re in search of the most luxurious real estate stock in Golden, look no further than Mesa View Estates. 

The premier neighborhood is known for its expansive views and luxurious mansions. The enclave is tucked away from the bustle of Downtown Golden but is conveniently connected to it via a 13-minute drive up Route 6.

The real estate in Mesa View Estates is some of the most coveted in Colorado. It features high-end homes with custom designs, modern amenities, and expansive lots. Many homes in the area boast top-of-the-line design standards and eco-friendly technologies, while the generous spacing between properties ensures privacy and a sense of exclusivity, making it a coveted location for those seeking a quieter lifestyle with no compromise on luxury.

One of the standout features of Mesa View Estates is its unbeatable location. Perched on elevated terrain, many homes in the neighborhood enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, offering breathtaking vistas that change with the seasons. The proximity to natural landmarks like Table Mountain and Green Mountain provides easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

As you would expect of a neighborhood of its caliber, Mesa View Estates meticulously maintains its well-kept streets, while community parks and hiking trails keep the area connected to the natural beauty that defines Golden. The neighborhood also prides itself on a well-organized homeowners association that maintains the beauty and standards of the area, ensuring that it remains one of the most desirable places to live in Golden.

South Golden

South Golden is more of a conglomerate of the various areas south of Downtown Golden that run along South Golden Road, making up the unofficial "South Golden" neighborhood. 

Central to the area’s appeal is its seamless integration of residential areas with expansive green spaces. Unique parks, such as Westblade Park and Ulysses Park provide ideal spots for community activity, such as sports fields and large picnic areas. Residents also get to enjoy access to the massive Fossil Trace Golf Club and The Splash at Fossil Trace, a favorite local waterpark. 

Real estate in South Golden reflects a diverse range of architectural styles, from quaint bungalows and mid-century modern homes to newer, more contemporary constructions. This variety caters to a broad spectrum of tastes and budgets, making it an attractive neighborhood for a wide array of buyers. 

South Golden features a mix of independent shops to satisfy residents’ shopping needs, but a unique perk is the large shopping center just off 6th Avenue and Colfax Avenue. The district features a Home Depot, Kohls, and other small shops and eateries. You’ll find most of the area’s major businesses gathered around South Golden Road, which provides convenient access for residents to unique shopping experiences and a variety of dining options.

Tablerock

Tucked away into the majestic North Table Mountain, Tablerock is a unique area that delivers an unparalleled blend of suburban bliss with Colorado’s most breathtaking natural offerings. 

While technically just outside Golden’s northern borders, Tablerock is still close enough if you’re keen on living in the city. Its desirable real estate more than makes up for the extra commute time into the heart of Downtown.

The neighborhood features a range of properties from luxurious single-family homes to modern mansions with unbeatable views of the nearby mountains. Many of the area’s homes are designed to maximize the natural surroundings, with features like large windows and outdoor living spaces that take full advantage of the spacious environment and natural features.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Tablerock can arguably be the best that Golden has to offer. After all, the area is etched into North Table Mountain itself, offering access to some of the best hiking and biking trails in the area. The neighborhood is just minutes away from the North Table Mountain Park, a favorite among locals for its challenging trails and panoramic views. The park provides a perfect setting for a range of activities, from casual exploration to more intense mountain biking or rock climbing.

Additionally, Tablerock is conveniently located near essential amenities, while the neighborhood’s layout of quiet streets and cul-de-sacs ensures a peaceful living environment. You also don’t have to worry about feeling boxed in by a suburban feel; Tablerock is a straight shot to Boulder and Denver, featuring a 30-minute commute to either city that can satisfy any entertainment needs you may have. 

Homes for sale in Golden, CO

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