Quick Info
Location: 3 miles southeast of downtown, centered on 1st-3rd Avenues between University and Steele. Known for: Upscale shopping at Cherry Creek Mall and North, fine dining, art galleries, and the Cherry Creek Trail running through it all.
Cherry Creek is where Denver does luxury. The neighborhood southeast of downtown has two distinct shopping destinations - the enclosed Cherry Creek Shopping Center and the outdoor Cherry Creek North - surrounded by some of the city's best restaurants and galleries. If you're looking for high-end retail or special occasion dining, this is your spot.
The vibe is polished and sophisticated, a contrast to the grittier cool of Capitol Hill or the industrial chic of RiNo. Streets are clean, valets are plentiful, and the people-watching skews toward well-dressed professionals and ladies who lunch. It's not for everyone, but it does what it does exceptionally well.
Shopping
Cherry Creek Shopping Center is the anchor - a massive enclosed mall with Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Macy's, and over 160 stores. You'll find all the expected luxury brands here, from Louis Vuitton to Tiffany, alongside contemporary favorites and a decent food court when you need a break.
Cherry Creek North is the more interesting shopping experience. This 16-block outdoor district has over 300 independently owned shops, galleries, and restaurants. The mix includes local designers, home goods stores, specialty food shops, and the kind of boutiques where you find things you'd never see at a mall.
For fashion, spots like Max and Lawrence Covell carry high-end designer pieces. For home, Show of Hands features Colorado-made furniture and art. Art galleries are scattered throughout, with Plus Gallery and William Havu Gallery representing established and emerging artists.
The area also has excellent spas if shopping is exhausting. Several high-end salons and day spas offer the full treatment experience, from massages to facials to full makeovers.
Where to Eat
Elway's is the famous one - John Elway's steakhouse that's become a Denver institution. The steaks are excellent, the wine list is extensive, and you might spot a celebrity or local power broker. It's expensive but delivers on the special occasion promise.
Barolo Grill serves Northern Italian cuisine with a wine list that's earned Wine Spectator recognition. The pasta is made fresh, the atmosphere is elegant but not stuffy, and it's the kind of place that makes you want to linger over a long meal.
True Food Kitchen brings health-conscious dining without sacrificing flavor. The menu is built around anti-inflammatory eating principles, but you'd never know it from the taste. Great for lunch between shopping expeditions.
Cherry Cricket has been serving burgers since 1945, proving that not everything in Cherry Creek is fancy. The burgers are legendary, the beer selection is solid, and the vibe is decidedly casual. It's the democratic anchor of the neighborhood.
Coffee and Casual
Cherry Creek has plenty of spots for a quick bite or afternoon caffeine. Aviano Coffee serves excellent espresso drinks in a sleek space perfect for a shopping break. Fruition offers farm-to-table breakfast and lunch with ingredients from their own farm.
Marczyk Fine Foods is a specialty grocery that doubles as a lunch spot, with prepared foods, sandwiches, and cheese selections perfect for assembling a picnic. Their wine selection is curated and reasonably priced.
Cherry Creek Trail
Running right through the neighborhood is one of Denver's best urban trails. The Cherry Creek Trail stretches 40 miles from downtown to Franktown, but the section through Cherry Creek is particularly pleasant. Walkers, joggers, and cyclists share the paved path that follows the creek through parks and past public art.
The trail connects Cherry Creek to downtown Denver, making it possible to bike or walk between neighborhoods. It's a popular commute route and an excellent way to explore the city without a car. Bike rental stations are available along the route.
Events
The Cherry Creek Arts Festival is one of the largest arts festivals in the country, taking over the neighborhood every July 4th weekend. Over 250 artists display and sell work across mediums, from paintings to sculptures to jewelry. It draws over 300,000 visitors and transforms the streets into an outdoor gallery.
Throughout the year, Cherry Creek North hosts sidewalk sales, gallery walks, and seasonal events. The holiday shopping season brings special decorations and extended hours, and various wine walks and tasting events pop up throughout the year.
Getting There
Cherry Creek is about 3 miles from downtown Denver, easily reached by Uber or Lyft. Parking is available in garages and on street, though it can be tight on weekends. The Cherry Creek Trail provides a scenic bike or walk from downtown or other connected neighborhoods.
RTD bus routes serve the area, and the neighborhood is very walkable once you arrive. The two shopping areas - the mall and North - are adjacent and easy to explore on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Cherry Creek Mall and Cherry Creek North?
The mall (Cherry Creek Shopping Center) is an enclosed traditional mall with big department stores and chain retailers. Cherry Creek North is a 16-block outdoor district of independent shops, galleries, and restaurants. Both are worth visiting.
Is Cherry Creek expensive?
Generally yes - it's Denver's luxury shopping destination. But the Cherry Cricket burger joint is affordable, and window shopping is free. The quality justifies the prices at most spots.
Is Cherry Creek good for families?
It's fine for families, though it skews toward adults. The trail is great for kids, and the mall has typical family-friendly retail. The fine dining restaurants are better suited for date nights.
When is the Cherry Creek Arts Festival?
Every July 4th weekend. It's free to attend and features over 250 artists. Plan for crowds and book dining reservations well in advance if you're visiting during the festival.