But what does commuting from Lakewood to Denver actually look like day to day? Here’s what you should know before making the move.

How Far Is Lakewood from Denver?

Lakewood borders Denver directly, which means commute times can vary depending on exactly where you live and work. In general, you’re looking at:

• 15–25 minutes to downtown Denver in light traffic
• 20–35 minutes during heavier peak commute times
• Slightly longer if you’re heading south toward the Denver Tech Center

The good news? You’re not starting from the suburbs 45 minutes out. Lakewood’s location gives you a head start.

Driving: The Most Common Option

Most Lakewood residents commute by car. Major roadways like:

• 6th Avenue (US-6)
• I-70
• C-470
• I-25 (via connecting routes)

make it relatively straightforward to reach downtown or other parts of the metro area.

6th Avenue is especially popular for commuters heading directly into Denver. It runs east-west and connects efficiently to downtown corridors. During rush hour, traffic can build, but compared to longer suburban commutes, many residents find it manageable.

Living near convenient road access, like communities with quick connections to major routes, can shave valuable minutes off your drive and reduce stress on busy mornings.

Public Transportation Options

If you’d rather skip driving altogether, Lakewood offers RTD light rail and bus routes that connect to Denver.

The W Line light rail is a popular choice. It runs between Jefferson County Government Center and Union Station in downtown Denver. For commuters who work near Union Station or along connecting transit lines, this can be a reliable alternative to driving.

Benefits of taking light rail:

• No parking stress downtown
• Predictable travel time
• Time to read, scroll, or unwind

Some Lakewood neighborhoods are closer to stations than others, so proximity can make a big difference in convenience.

Hybrid and Flexible Work Schedules

One thing that has changed in recent years is how often people commute. Many Denver-based professionals now work hybrid schedules, two or three days in the office rather than five.

For hybrid workers, Lakewood becomes even more appealing. A 25-minute commute a few times per week feels very different than doing it daily. You get access to Denver’s job market without feeling like your life revolves around traffic.

What Makes Lakewood a Smart Commuter City?

Commuting isn’t just about distance, it’s about what you come home to.

Lakewood offers:

• Quieter residential neighborhoods
• Access to parks and trails
• Easier parking
• A slightly slower pace than central Denver

After a full workday downtown, many residents appreciate returning to a space that feels less dense and more relaxed. It’s one of the reasons Lakewood continues to attract Denver professionals.

Cost Considerations

While housing costs fluctuate across the metro area, Lakewood often offers more space for your budget compared to central Denver neighborhoods. For renters, that can mean larger floor plans, access to amenities, and easier parking, all while staying within commuting distance of downtown jobs.

Apartment communities in Lakewood, including options like The Huntington, often combine practical layouts with access to major commuter routes. Features like on-site maintenance, carports, and community amenities can also simplify everyday life, especially when you’re balancing work and home responsibilities.

Rush Hour Reality

No metro commute is perfect, and it’s helpful to go in with realistic expectations.

Typical rush hour windows:

• 6:30–9:00 AM
• 3:30–6:30 PM

Weather can also affect drive times, especially in winter. Snow and icy conditions may extend commute times, though major roads are generally cleared quickly.

If your schedule allows flexibility, leaving slightly earlier or later, you can often avoid the worst congestion.

Work-Life Balance

Perhaps the biggest benefit of commuting from Lakewood to Denver isn’t the drive itself, it’s the balance.

You can:

• Work in a major city with strong career opportunities
• Live near hiking trails and open space
• Enjoy dining, shopping, and entertainment in both Lakewood and Denver
• Return home to a more residential environment

That combination is hard to beat.

Is the Commute Worth It?

For many people, the answer is yes. Lakewood provides close proximity to Denver without the intensity of urban living. The commute is short enough to stay practical, but far enough to create a noticeable shift in pace when you get home.

If you’re exploring Lakewood as a home base while working in Denver, it helps to picture your full routine including the morning drive, workday, and unwinding in the evening. 

Communities like The Huntington are positioned to make that rhythm feel manageable, with convenient access to commuter routes and everyday essentials. You can browse the photo gallery to get a sense of the living spaces, check out the connected location to see how it fits into your commute, or explore available floor plans to find a layout that supports your work-life balance. When you’re ready to take the next step, you can apply online when it fits your schedule.

In the end, commuting from Lakewood to Denver isn’t just about distance. It’s about building a lifestyle where work and home feel balanced, and Lakewood, especially in well-located communities like The Huntington, makes that balance feel realistic.

The post Commuting from Lakewood to Denver: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on The Huntington Living.

Here’s a guide to some of the best restaurants and breweries located right here in Lakewood.

Local Breweries in Lakewood

Lakewood has built a strong craft beer presence, with breweries that range from laid-back taprooms to focused small-batch operations.

• 6 and 40 Brewery – Known for clean, well-crafted lagers and a welcoming, community-focused taproom.
• Old 121 Brewhouse – A neighborhood favorite with a loyal following and a reputation for quality beers.
• Green Mountain Beer Company – Relaxed atmosphere with a diverse lineup that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
• WestFax Brewing Company – Creative releases and a strong local identity make this a staple in the area.
• LandLocked Ales – A community-centered brewery serving locally crafted beers in a comfortable setting.

These breweries often host trivia nights, food trucks, and patio gatherings, making them easy places to spend an afternoon or unwind in the evening.

Brewpubs & Beer-Centric Restaurants

If you want both food and craft beer in one place, Lakewood has several reliable options.

• Great Divide Brewery & Roadhouse – Combines well-known Colorado beers with a full restaurant experience.
• Yard House – A lively setting with an extensive draft list and a menu built for sharing.
• The Barrel Room Sports Bar and Grill – A popular game-day destination with a strong beer selection and approachable comfort food.
• Westrail Tap & Grill – A dependable neighborhood gathering spot with rotating taps and familiar favorites.

These spots work well for casual date nights, meeting coworkers after work, or catching a game without leaving Lakewood.

Standout Restaurants in Lakewood

Beyond breweries, Lakewood is home to long-standing restaurants that have earned loyal followings.

• 240 Union Restaurant – A polished dining destination often recommended for special occasions and elevated meals.
• Abrusci’s Fire & Vine – A staple Italian restaurant that many residents return to for celebrations and family dinners.
• Coyote Table Artisan Kitchen & Bar – A modern neighborhood favorite blending pizza, craft kitchen creativity, and bar energy.
• Teller’s Taproom & Kitchen – A lively and reliable restaurant that many locals consider their go-to.
• Tstreet Roadhouse – Casual, welcoming, and known for hearty American fare.
• The Ranch @ West 40 – A popular brunch destination that brings energy to weekend mornings.
• Front Range Inn – A comfortable neighborhood restaurant with a strong local following.
• Piggin’ Out Smokehouse – A long-standing barbecue spot that continues to draw repeat visitors.

What ties these restaurants together is consistency. These are places that feel rooted in the community, dependable, welcoming, and built for repeat visits.

Craft Spirits in Lakewood

Lakewood also offers options for those who prefer cocktails and small-batch spirits.

• Ballmer Peak Distillery – Green Mountain – A local distillery known for creative drinks and a dedicated following.

It’s a solid option for evenings when you’re looking for something beyond a traditional brewery experience.

Why Lakewood’s Dining Scene Stands Out

Lakewood’s restaurant and brewery scene reflects the city’s personality: relaxed, community-oriented, and approachable. Instead of trend-driven turnover, many establishments here have built lasting reputations. You’ll often see neighbors, families, and coworkers filling patios and dining rooms, especially on sunny afternoons.

There’s balance, too. You can grab brunch, spend an afternoon at a brewery, enjoy a refined dinner, or keep things simple with barbecue or pub fare, all without leaving the city.

Living Close to Lakewood’s Best Dining

One of the advantages of living in Lakewood is having these restaurants and breweries within easy reach. Whether you’re planning ahead or heading out on short notice, staying local is part of the appeal.

The Huntington places residents in a convenient Lakewood setting with access to major roads, shopping districts, and neighborhood dining. You can explore available floor plans, browse the photo gallery to see the community layout, or check out the location to understand how it connects you to the city’s food and brewery scene. When you're ready, you can apply online and make Lakewood your home base.

Lakewood may not always be the loudest food city in the metro area, but once you start exploring, it’s easy to see why so many residents keep their favorite spots close to home.

The post Best Restaurants & Breweries in Lakewood, Colorado appeared first on The Huntington Living.

Here’s a closer look at some of the best parks and outdoor recreation options in Lakewood, and what makes each one worth visiting.

Bear Creek Lake Park

If there’s one park that defines outdoor living in Lakewood, it’s Bear Creek Lake Park. This expansive area offers far more than just walking trails. It’s a full recreation destination.

Visitors come here for:

• Hiking and mountain biking trails
• Paddleboarding, kayaking, and non-motorized boating
• Open water views with mountain backdrops
• Picnic areas and shaded gathering spots
• Seasonal camping

It’s the kind of place you can visit for a quick morning walk or spend an entire Saturday exploring. The variety of terrain makes it appealing to casual walkers and serious outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Green Mountain Open Space

For those looking for elevation gain and panoramic views, Green Mountain Open Space is a local favorite. The trail system winds through rolling foothills and offers some of the best vantage points in the area.

What to expect:

• Moderate to challenging hiking routes
• Popular mountain biking paths
• Wide views of the Denver skyline and Front Range
• A strong community of regular trail users

Green Mountain is especially popular in the early morning and around sunset, when the lighting across the foothills is at its best.

Crown Hill Park

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, Crown Hill Park offers a calm, scenic environment that’s ideal for walking and jogging.

Highlights include:

• A loop trail around the lake
• Birdwatching areas
• Flat, accessible pathways
• Open grassy spaces

It’s a great option for families, dog walkers, or anyone looking for a lower-impact outing. You’ll often see neighbors walking together or enjoying quiet time near the water.

William F. Hayden Park on Green Mountain

Often grouped with Green Mountain, William F. Hayden Park deserves its own mention. The trail system here is well-maintained and clearly marked, making it approachable for newer hikers.

Many locals appreciate:

• Trail variety with different difficulty levels
• Less crowded routes during weekdays
• Consistent views throughout the climb

It’s an accessible way to experience Colorado’s foothill terrain without committing to a full mountain excursion.

Sister City Park

Smaller than the regional parks, Sister City Park offers a neighborhood-friendly option for quick outings. It’s the type of park that fits naturally into daily life rather than requiring special planning.

Residents use it for:

• Short evening walks
• Casual meetups
• Open green space for kids
• Simple outdoor breaks during the workday

Having these smaller parks scattered throughout Lakewood is part of what makes the city feel livable.

Lakewood Gulch & Regional Trail Connections

Lakewood also connects into larger regional trail systems, giving residents access to extended walking and biking routes.

These paths allow for:

• Longer-distance cycling
• Commuter-friendly bike routes
• Scenic paved trails
• Easy transitions between neighborhoods

For those who prefer paved surfaces over dirt trails, these connections offer flexibility without sacrificing access to nature.

Recreation Centers & Organized Activities

Outdoor recreation in Lakewood isn’t limited to parks and trails. The city also offers structured programs and recreation centers that support year-round activity.

Depending on your interests, you’ll find:

• Youth sports leagues
• Adult fitness classes
• Indoor courts and swimming
• Seasonal outdoor programs

This blend of informal open space and organized recreation gives residents multiple ways to stay active.

Seasonal Outdoor Living

One of the underrated aspects of Lakewood’s park system is how well it adapts to the seasons.

• Spring brings wildflowers and cooler hiking temperatures.
• Summer opens up lake activities and extended daylight hours.
• Fall offers colorful foliage along foothill trails.
• Winter still supports walking, snow-dusted hikes, and peaceful open space views.

You don’t have to wait for perfect conditions to get outside, the parks remain part of daily life year-round.

Why Outdoor Access Matters

Living near quality parks isn’t just about weekend recreation. It’s about convenience. When trails and open space are minutes away, it’s easier to:

• Clear your head after work
• Stay consistent with fitness goals
• Spend more time outside with family
• Build simple, healthy routines

That accessibility shapes daily life more than most people expect.

Living Close to Lakewood’s Outdoor Spaces

Choosing a home in Lakewood often means choosing proximity to the outdoors. The Huntington offers a residential setting with access to major routes leading toward parks, foothills, and trail systems. You can explore available floor plans to find a layout that fits your lifestyle or browse the photo gallery to see the community environment. When you’re ready to make the move, you can apply online when the timing feels right.

In Lakewood, outdoor recreation isn’t an occasional luxury. It’s part of the rhythm of everyday life, and that’s what makes it such a compelling place to call home.

The post Best Parks & Outdoor Recreation in Lakewood, CO appeared first on The Huntington Living.

Whether you’re considering a move for work, family, or a change of pace, understanding what daily life looks like in Lakewood can help you decide if it’s the right fit.

Where Is Lakewood Located?

Lakewood is Jefferson County’s largest city and borders Denver on the west side. Its location makes it especially appealing for commuters who work in Denver, the Denver Federal Center, or surrounding employment hubs, while still offering a quieter residential environment.

Major highways like I-70, I-25, and C-470 are easily accessible, making it straightforward to travel across the metro area or head toward the foothills and mountains. This positioning gives Lakewood a unique advantage: urban access in one direction, outdoor adventure in the other.

Outdoor Recreation and Green Space

One of Lakewood’s defining features is its access to outdoor recreation. The city is home to dozens of parks and trails, and open spaces that make it easy to spend time outside year-round.

Bear Creek Lake Park is a standout destination, offering hiking and biking trails, open water views, picnic areas, and seasonal activities. Crown Hill Park is another local favorite, known for its scenic loop trail and wildlife viewing opportunities. Beyond these larger parks, Lakewood’s neighborhood trails and greenways make it easy to fit walks, runs, or bike rides into everyday routines.

For residents who value outdoor time but don’t want to live far from city amenities, Lakewood offers an ideal middle ground.

Shopping, Dining, and Entertainment

Lakewood has a strong mix of shopping and dining options that support daily needs and leisure alike. Belmar is one of the city’s most well-known destinations, combining retail, restaurants, entertainment, and community events in a walkable district. From casual dining to movie nights and seasonal festivals, it’s a central gathering spot for residents.

Colorado Mills, located nearby, offers outlet shopping and big-box retailers, making it easy to handle errands without driving into Denver. Throughout the city, you’ll also find locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and neighborhood services that add to Lakewood’s everyday convenience.

Cultural venues like the Lakewood Cultural Center contribute to the city’s creative side, hosting performances, art exhibits, and community programming throughout the year.

Lakewood Schools and Community Life

Lakewood is served by multiple school districts, including Jefferson County Public Schools and nearby districts such as Bear Creek. This makes the city appealing to families as well as educators and school staff looking to live close to work.

Community life in Lakewood tends to feel approachable and locally focused. Neighborhood events, farmers markets, recreation programs, and city-hosted activities create opportunities for residents to connect without the pace feeling overwhelming.

Housing and Apartment Living

Housing in Lakewood ranges from single-family neighborhoods to apartment communities, offering flexibility for different lifestyles and budgets. Apartment living is especially popular among professionals, families, and long-term renters who want access to amenities, maintenance support, and convenient locations near work and recreation.

Community Amenities

Many apartment communities in Lakewood emphasize livability over flash, focusing on practical layouts, outdoor access, and shared spaces that support daily routines. This makes the city a good option for renters who value comfort, space, and location rather than a purely urban experience.

Explore Apartment Amenities

Transportation and Commute

Most residents rely on driving, as Lakewood is generally car-dependent. That said, the city’s road network is well connected, and commute times are often more predictable than in denser parts of Denver.

Public transit options exist through RTD, including bus routes and light rail connections in certain areas, but driving remains the primary mode of transportation for most households.

Is Lakewood, CO a Good Place to Live?

Lakewood appeals to people looking for balance. It’s not as fast-paced as downtown Denver, but it’s far from quiet or isolated. The city offers access to nature, solid local amenities, cultural venues, and everyday conveniences, all while maintaining a more relaxed residential feel.

For outdoor enthusiasts, families, professionals, and long-term renters alike, Lakewood provides a lifestyle that’s adaptable and sustainable over time. It’s a place where you can build routines, explore the outdoors, and still stay connected to everything the Denver metro area has to offer.

Explore Apartment Living in Lakewood

If you’re considering apartment living in Lakewood, exploring a local community can help put everything into perspective. You can browse Huntington’s photo gallery to get a feel for the homes, shared spaces, and outdoor areas, or take a closer look at the location to see how it fits into your daily routine. When you’re ready to take the next step, you can apply online whenever it fits your schedule.

The post A Complete Guide to Living in Lakewood Colorado appeared first on The Huntington Living.