Where Young Professionals Want to Live in Denver: Belmar in Lakewood

Where Young Professionals Want to Live in Denver: Belmar in Lakewood

If you’re a young professional looking for walkability, creative energy, and a tight-knit community—without giving up easy access to downtown—Belmar in Lakewood checks all the right boxes. This thoughtfully designed neighborhood blends local art, new urbanist planning, and a bold sense of reinvention that’s reshaped what suburban living can look like just west of Denver.

From Villa Italia to Belmar: A Story of Reinvention

Before Belmar was a modern hub of walkable streets, public art, and local flavor, it was the site of Villa Italia Mall—once the largest shopping center west of the Mississippi. When the mall closed in the early 2000s, Lakewood city leaders reimagined the space as a live-work-play district grounded in New Urbanist design principles.

Today, Belmar is a mix of modern condos, tree-lined plazas, adaptive reuse spaces, and boutique storefronts. It’s a neighborhood designed for people, not cars—and it’s become one of the metro’s best examples of suburban innovation.

A Hub for Art, Culture & Colorado Quirk

Belmar has grown into a full-fledged cultural district, with art galleries, pop-up studios, and rotating public art installations throughout the neighborhood. At the center of it all is Arts on Belmar—an entire city block dedicated to gallery spaces and working studios. On First Fridays, the entire creative district opens up from 6–9 p.m., welcoming locals for a vibrant night of art, wine, and connection.

Just a few blocks north, the 40 West Arts District draws artists and art-lovers alike with 20+ public art installations, dozens of galleries, and live performances. It’s become one of the most influential creative hubs in the metro, and it’s still growing.

And of course, Casa Bonita—a long-standing cultural icon—sits just minutes away. Recently revived by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, this legendary pink palace has been delighting generations of locals with cliff divers, sopapillas, and over-the-top entertainment. It’s quirky, nostalgic, and 100% Colorado.

Festivals and Events That Bring the Community Together

Whether you’re into food, film, or fine art, Belmar has a calendar full of community-driven events. From Lakewood Arts Week to outdoor concerts and farmers markets, there’s always something happening within walking distance. It’s a lifestyle that invites connection and creativity—perfect for young professionals craving something more personal than the downtown hustle.

Architecture That Reflects the Neighborhood’s Roots

Belmar’s architectural style is a nod to its roots—with modern functionality. You’ll find:

• Industrial-chic condos with loft-style interiors
• Contemporary townhomes with rooftop patios
• Adaptive reuse buildings turned into offices, shops, and cafes
• Public art woven into the streetscape for visual interest at every corner

Everything about Belmar feels intentional. It’s a place where design, lifestyle, and community intersect naturally.

What Life Looks Like in Belmar

• Start the day with a local roast from Blue Sky Café
• Work remotely from Bonfils-Stanton Park or the Belmar Library
• Bike the trails around Belmar Park or explore Lakewood’s open spaces
• Browse galleries on First Friday or unwind at Alamo Drafthouse
• Catch live music, sip on something local, and walk home under string lights

Belmar makes it easy to have a full life without getting in your car.

Housing in Belmar

Home options here are modern, low-maintenance, and in demand. Condos start in the $300Ks, with larger townhomes pushing into the $700K+ range depending on style and square footage. With newer builds, smart features, and energy efficiency, Belmar appeals to buyers who want style without the stress.

Final Thoughts

Belmar isn’t just a place to live—it’s a story of transformation that continues to evolve. For young professionals who want access to creative spaces, urban amenities, and Colorado’s best cultural quirks, this walkable hub in Lakewood is one of the Denver area’s best-kept secrets.

👉 Curious about Belmar? Let’s talk. I’d be happy to send you a local market update or tour a few homes when the timing’s right.