Living in Hilltop
Hilltop is an upscale, centrally located neighborhood with a quieter, more suburban feel than its neighbor, Cherry Creek. Combine that with just a 15-minute commute to downtown, and you have a perfect place for those who want quick access to the city but prefer a quieter living environment.
Market Strengths
Living in Hilltop
Overview
​So, when I think of Hilltop, I generally think about old-world charm mixed with modern amenities. It’s an upscale, centrally located neighborhood with a quieter, more suburban feel than its neighbor, Cherry Creek. Combine that with just a 15-minute commute to downtown, and you have a perfect place for those who want quick access to the city but prefer a quieter living environment.
Hilltop’s walkability score of 60 is lower than it’s more urban neighbor, Cherry Creek, but it’s still better than other suburban areas and many errands can still be run on foot. Living here, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere, where people frequently take leisurely walks to nearby parks, schools, and local shops.
Nightlife
Hilltop has have a small selection of charming bars and restaurants that cater to various tastes. Some popular spots include:
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"Pete's Central One," a cozy neighborhood bar perfect for catching a game.
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"Café Marmotte," known for its French-inspired cuisine
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One must-try and my favorite is Luciles Creole Café – a restaurant serving the taste of Southern New Orleans, that’s been open for over 40 years
For more nightlife options, you have access to Cherry Creek right next to you that has more places for dinner and cocktails like Kinis, Forget Me Not, and the Cherry Crickett.
Shopping
​For shopping, Hilltop residents will want to head over to Cherry Creek, which has over 300 boutiques and shops in the 300 North District, and the Cherry Creek Shopping Center, one of Denver’s premier shopping destinations with high-end retailers like Neiman Marcus, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany’s.
Recreational Activities
Nearby Parks
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The neighborhood has a few nice parks in it, you have the Robinson Park which is a popular dog park and the main attraction, Cranmer Park, famous for its iconic sundial and views of the mountains.
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Golf and Tennis Clubs
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If you’re a tennis player, the Denver Tennis club will be a great place to play and meet people. The club has been open for almost 100 years and known for hosting fun socials, facilitating game matches, and competitive play with USTA leagues if you’re up for it!
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round at the nearby Denver Country Club, while those who love the outdoors can explore the numerous hiking and running trails in the area.
Crestmoor Community Association
Then, you have the crown jewel of the Hilltop Neighborhood, the Crestmoor Swimming and Tennis club, located right next to the park. It’s a prestigious club with amazing tennis and swimming facilities, classes, and events, and it’s a great way to meet people.
It’s also equally exclusive - only 375 families are allowed membership at any time, and only 10-15 openings come up each year – membership requires a sponsor and a thorough application process.
But here’s the inside tip most newcomers might not realize when shopping for homes there – there is a certain portion of the neighborhood that is given priority for admittance. That makes these homes the most desirable, and it’s important to know where that boundary is and adjust your offer price accordingly!
The map below shows the hilltop neighborhood, and we have what we call Filings 1 and 2 as the shaded areas of the neighborhood – buying a home in either of these areas gets you the priority access to the club, anywhere outside of these areas, and you’re a longshot. This is one of the tips that’s critical to know when looking for homes here!
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Education
Hilltop is served by some of Denver's top-rated schools, making it a popular choice for families.
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For younger children, Steck Elementary and Carson Elementary are excellent options.
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Middle school students often attend Hill Campus of Arts and Sciences, while
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High school students are zoned for George Washington High School, known for its rigorous academic programs.
The neighborhood has a lower crime rate compared to other areas in Denver, there are no reports of homelessness in the area, which contribute to its reputation as a safe community.
Property Types
When you think of Hilltop, think of expansive lots, shaded by mature trees, and predominantly traditional, brick-built homes with lush, tailored landscaping. The neighborhood's architecture is a charming mix of Colonial and Tudor styles, with homes primarily constructed between the 1930s and 1950s, alongside recent modern developments.
This blend of classic and contemporary designs, combined with broad lawns, contributes to Hilltop's unique appeal. The neighborhood HOA requires that all remodels and new builds are compatible with this style to maintain this unique appeal and attractiveness!
Currently, home prices in Hilltop reflect its upscale market, with a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom home averaging around $1.2 million and larger properties ranging from $1.5 million to $3 million, following an 8% appreciation over the past year.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hilltop is a charming and desirable neighborhood that offers a blend of suburban tranquility and urban convenience. If you’re looking for an upscale home in a tranquil suburban neighborhood, with urban convenience, and access to various clubs to live an active, social lifestyle, you’ve found your neighborhood! If you're considering a move to this wonderful area, don't hesitate to reach out. I'm here to help you find the perfect home that suits your needs and lifestyle.