Cheesman Park, Denver

Cheesman Park, located in Denver, is both a vibrant urban park and a historic neighborhood with deep roots in the city's development. Originally the site of Prospect Hill Cemetery in the late nineteenth century, the area now known as Cheesman Park transformed into a public green space as city planners aimed to create an amenity for the expanding population east of Denver's central area. The park opened in 1907 as Congress Park, named after the U.S. Congress, which approved its conversion from a cemetery. It was later renamed Cheesman Park in honor of Denver pioneer Walter Cheesman, whose family donated the iconic Neoclassical pavilion after his death.

Today, Cheesman Park serves as a peaceful residential area centered around the expansive lawns and shady jogging trails of its namesake park. The area is known for its blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility, offering residents and visitors alike a close connection to nature and history. The park hosts a variety of events, including those catering to the LGBT community, and is a hub of local activity.

Just east of Cheesman Park lies the Denver Botanic Gardens, a popular attraction featuring themed gardens and a summer concert series in its amphitheater. The neighborhood surrounding the park is dotted with casual eateries, coffeehouses, and trendy craft cocktail bars, making it a lively yet relaxed place to live or visit.

Cheesman Park is one of Denver’s oldest neighborhoods, developed in the late 1800s by some of the city's wealthiest residents. Today, many of the grand historic mansions have been converted into charming apartment homes, contributing to the neighborhood's character. Cheesman Park remains one of Denver’s most sought-after areas, known for its rich history, dense population, and a blend of old-world charm with modern urban living.