Capitol Hill & Congress Park

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Capitol Hill & Congress Park. A vibrant mix of urban culture, Capitol Hill’s historic mansions share space with newer condos and apartments, resulting in an eclectic young community. Home to some of Denver’s most interesting tourist attractions, the neighborhood is also the hub of both Denver’s GLBT scene as well as the city’s punk community, with music and shopping befitting both. The gold-domed Colorado State Capitol acts as an anchor for this hilltop neighborhood, while the 210-foot-high French Gothic Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception also serves as a focal point. The impressive cathedral was the first basilica west of the Mississippi and where Pope John Paul II conducted a mass during World Youth Day in 1993.

Nestled in the middle of this neighborhood of beautiful turn-of-the-century mansions is Denver Botanic Gardens. And true to the neighborhood’s diverse nature, modernist Vance Kirkland’s museum is next door to one such mansion formerly owned by a Colorado legend: you can get a glimpse into the life of Denver’s most famous prospector at the Molly Brown House. “Unsinkable Molly” gained wealth during the gold rush days and fame as a Titanic survivor. Many of the other stately mansions have been converted into bed & breakfasts, elegant tearooms, or office space. Capitol Hill/Congress Park is also a great place to hear live music. Explore Capitol Hill/Congress Park's rich heritage with the Denver Story Trek, an interactive, multimedia tour that takes you to Denver's greatest historic attractions. Get more information at www.DenverStoryTrek.com.

Where to Find It

2.5 miles southeast of Denver’s Central Business District, in the area squared off by Broadway, Colfax, Downing, and Sixth Avenue.

Getting There

Many of the attractions can be reached from downtown by taking the free 16th Street shuttle to the end of the line at Civic Center Park, which is home to the Capitol Building.

Approximate cab fare from downtown to the Denver Botanic Gardens: $10.50 (approx.)
RTD: Direct routes on bus 15

Locals Know

Capitol Hill is a very gay-friendly community and a haven for artists and bohemians. Both Congress and Cheesman Parks offer summer entertainment and are great places for a jog, a picnic, or some great people-watching.

Special Events

The annual PrideFest parade makes its way through the heart of the neighborhood each summer while the largest Cinco de Mayo celebration in the nation takes place in front of the State Capitol in Civic Center Park.

Inside Scoop: Neighborhood Businesses

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