Old South Pearl Street
One of my favorite spots near campus has always been South Pearl Street. I spent many a day on this street—cold, lonely days in Nixon’s Coffee House as a freshman and busy weekends as a sophomore, working at the spunky restaurant Bird. From the moment I saw this street, I fell in love with its history and charm. Not only that, but the movement of the people inspired me.
So, let’s take a trip down to the heart of the Washington Park neighborhood—the scenic, spunky South Pearl Street in Denver, Colorado.
Coming from the University of Denver, drive along East Evans Avenue. The neighborhoods line the surrounding streets, camouflaging what lays beyond them. Take a right on South Pearl Street and down four blocks. Houses, houses, houses, until—you’ll find the hidden hustle and bustle, small business paradise. Glance up at the string lights, bringing the night to life, connecting the trees. Stop and watch for a second; people are laughing and walking around. They’re probably heading over to Sushi Den. Or perhaps grabbing a latte at Stella’s Coffee Haus. Keep walking along its perfectly paved sidewalks because there is more to come.
Down the street, the array of buildings greets you, lining Denver’s South Pearl Street. No two are exactly the same. First, say hello to the Ruffly Rose, a lovely pink, green, and white flower shop. Here plants cover the front, almost painting the building in colors; no one has more character than the Ruffly Rose. As you continue on, stop at Stella’s Coffee Haus for a handcrafted coffee. It will grab your attention with its blue and yellow-painted building, eclectic furniture, and hidden hallways. Expect the next New York Times bestselling author to be writing inside; everyone works diligently in there. Down towards the end, Kaos Pizzeria will impress you with their brick patio and magical lights. Try their pizza…it will not disappoint.
Once you reach Louisiana Avenue, your time on South Pearl Street has come to an end. I hope you have enjoyed it. If you walk back down, there is more to explore on the other side of the street. But if you don’t, as a bonus, check out Nixon’s Coffee House on Louisiana Ave. The studious yet social atmosphere is perfect for any occasion. As a freshman, I did my homework here to debrief from college dorm life. It holds a special place in my heart. Nothing sparks my creativity more than sitting in a coffee shop listening to the smooth jazz and background chatter.
A History of Denver Dreamers
S Pearl St. began to blossom in 1893 when the streetcar tram finally connected it to the University of Denver. Over the next 25 years, one by one, businesses were built. First a grocer, then a barber, soon after, anything from beauty shops to bakeries. From 1915 to 1929, the street was popping. The small businesses were thriving, and it served as a local hangout for the neighbors. When the Great Depression hit, many of those small shops had to shut down, and the street was abandoned, reverting to its previous state.
Though a rough patch, post-World War II arose hope within the Washington Park neighborhood and once again set up shop in the shells of what was originally built. During the rise of large corporations and chains in the 1960s, small businesses received less attention. Resilient Denver once again rose to the challenge, and artists began to revitalize the street. Since then, many restaurants, coffee shops, stores, and more have brought the street to life. Some local traditions still hold true. For example, the Sunday farmers market, running from May until November each year.
On Sundays, the neighborhood comes together to walk along the farmers market, holding their canvas bags. Expect to see many dogs proudly prancing down the street. Creativity will shine as you see an array of art, produce, coffee, small businesses, food trucks, and more. At the fruit and vegetable vendors, bright reds, yellows, greens, and more will line down tables. Next to it, glass bottles of fresh honey sit. Soaps scented of lavender and flowers will make their appearance, along with paintings of the Rocky Mountains.
Throughout my (almost) four years in Denver, I’ve spent a lot of time on S Pearl Street. From a shy freshman, to a busy sophomore, to a confident senior, this street has been a consistent interest of mine. I eat here, study here, and go to the farmers market on Sundays. A street with no chain establishments is special—just those with a passion for food, clothes, and more. I feel inspired by the history and the hustle and bustle of South Pearl Street.
