Federal Boulevard Neighborhood Guide

Federal Boulevard offers a taste of everything from hand-crafted beers and modern Italian cuisine to the best authentic Asian and Mexican eateries. All along Federal Boulevard are bright murals adjacent to specialty shops, as well as antique and vintage signs that line the historic and diverse area.

If you're the type who likes to track down the most authentic, off-the-radar restaurants in any given city, then you'll want to head to South Federal, where unpretentious eateries are local favorites. Asian markets and Vietnamese restaurants abound in Little Saigon, between Mississippi and Alameda avenues, as do Mexican restaurants and shops in the Barnum area (named after circus mogul P.T. Barnum).

Neighborhood Map

Explore Federal Boulevard

Attractions

Meow Wolf Denver's Convergence Station is an unforgettable and transformational experience for all ages. Discover immersive, mind-bending art across the four alien worlds of C Street, Eemia, Ossuary and Numina. Uncover the secrets within. It goes pretty much without saying that Empower Field at Mile High is home of the three-time Super Bowl-winning Denver Broncos. You don't need game tickets to experience the magic. The Colorado Sports Hall of Fame is located on the west side of the stadium and takes visitors on a journey through Colorado sports history. Entrance to the museum is free but there is a charge for the 75-minute stadium tours. The stadium also serves as a venue for the biggest acts in music.

Craft Beer

A few blocks east of Federal Boulevard and across the South Platte River, you'll find two fantastic breweries. Raíces Brewing Co. is a Latino-owned brewpub featuring award-winning craft beers, rotating Latin American food and ongoing events. They have the only riverside patio in Denver. Strange Craft Beer Company was the first small taproom brewery to open in Denver. With an inviting bar made of reclaimed wood, a spacious outdoor seating area with yard games, rotating food trucks and 15 taps of award-winning beers, there’s plenty to enjoy.

Explore in Style

Head to Pedego Electric Bikes to grab a rental and explore the neighborhood! Or purchase your very own Pedego electric bike and accessories.

Parks

Several parks with water features offer an escape just off busy South Federal Boulevard. Visit Barnum Park for its views of downtown Denver; Jefferson Park, Huston Lake Park or Garfield Lake Park, each with lakeshores to explore; or Sanderson Gulch Park or Lakewood Gulch Park, where South Platte River tributaries meander through green spaces.

Asian Markets

A favorite of the neighborhood is Little Saigon Market, which carries produce, meats, spices and imported Asian products. Over at the Far East Center, a pagoda-style entry welcomes guests to explore a shopping center chock full of Asian eateries, markets and gift shops. Feast on coconut buns and noodle bowls, and shop for Buddha statues, straw hats, Chinese herbs and hundreds of other treasures.

Locals Know

For the best mystery dinner theater in the state, locals head to Adams Mystery Playhouse, with shows for any age on most Friday and Saturday nights.

The Denver Trolley is a replica of an open-air "Seeing Denver" streetcar operated by the Denver Tramway Company in the pre-World War I era. The trolley follows a scenic route along the South Platte River, beginning near the REI building at Confluence Park. It then goes by the Downtown Aquarium, Children's Museum of Denver at Marsico Campus, Empower Field at Mile High and other attractions. Check the website for hours and ticket prices.

A hidden gem of the neighborhood is the Vinh Xuong Bakery. The décor has a traditional coffeehouse feel and serves some of the best banh mi and sesame balls in the city.

Annual Events

Chinese and Vietnamese New Year

Every year the Far East Center celebrates the New Year in January with food, dragon and lion dancing and more.

St. Cajetan's Parish Bazaar

A neighborhood highlight, taking place in August, with food, dancing and fun, celebrating the parish's patron saint.

Chile Fest

In September, the Business and Culture District on Morrison Road hosts the annual event with cars, food, music and art.

See All Events

Federal Boulevard Map

Start your neighborhood adventure at this suggested spot! This is a centrally located position that you can input into your GPS to get started exploring.