Things To Do
in Northglenn

Northglenn is a northern Denver suburb that blends residential charm with easy access to the Front Range. Its location near major highways makes weekend trips to the mountains or downtown Denver convenient. The city prioritizes parks, community spaces, and family-friendly amenities, creating a laid-back, outdoor-oriented vibe.

As part of the Denver metro area, it serves as a gateway for exploring Colorado’s outdoors and culture without being in the thick of a big city center.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploration of Northglenn
morning
:

Start your journey with a refreshing walk at the Northglenn Recreation Center, where you can enjoy the outdoor trails and beautiful landscapes. After a light breakfast at a local café, prepare for a visit to the local farmers market for fresh produce and artisan goods. Engage with the friendly vendors and pick up some unique items to remember your visit.

afternoon
:

Head over to E.B. Rains Jr. Memorial Park, where you can enjoy a picnic by the pond or partake in outdoor recreational activities like paddle boating. Take time to explore the park’s art installations and enjoy its serene environment. Afterward, visit the Northglenn Arts and Humanities Foundation to appreciate some local art and cultural events.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the area that serves delicious local cuisine. After your meal, catch a live performance at the Northglenn Arts Center, where you might be treated to a concert or theater show. Conclude your day with an evening stroll through the beautifully landscaped parks, taking in the starry skies.

day 2
History and Culture
morning
:

Dive into local history by visiting the Northglenn Historical Commission, where you can learn about the city's rich past. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner that serves traditional American fare to fuel your day. Take some time to explore the historical exhibits and engage with knowledgeable staff.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the Carpenter Park Recreation Center, indulging in various activities from swimming to basketball. Participate in a community class or workshop that might be offered, fostering connections with local residents. You can also enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café overlooking the park.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant specializing in cuisine from around the world, providing a delicious culinary experience. Catch a movie at a nearby theater where you can unwind and enjoy the latest releases. End your evening at a local coffee shop with live music, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center)$1,400-1,900/mo
🚆Monthly public transit pass$60-100
Coffee (12 oz)$3-5
🧺Utilities (monthly)$100-180

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Denver and the Front Range
  • Family-friendly neighborhoods and parks
  • Access to outdoor activities and nature
  • Growing diversity of dining and craft beverage options nearby
  • Limited nightlife within Northglenn itself
  • Traffic along I-25 and surrounding corridors during peak hours
  • Housing costs in the wider Denver metro continue to rise

Places to Visit in Northglenn

Visit one of these nice places.

Northglenn Civic Center Grounds

A contemporary public space with clean lines, water features, and seasonal landscaping that provide good composition for architectural and candid shots.

Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

Wetlands, open plains, and wildlife viewing opportunities offer dramatic sunset and wildlife photography, especially during migratory periods.

Denver Skyline Viewpoints (near I-25 corridor)

Accessible perspectives from nearby vantage points along the I-25 area provide sweeping Front Range skyline backdrops for golden hour photography.

High Line Canal Trail (golden hour segments)

Long, shaded or open sections with canal reflections and natural scenery—great for landscape and nature photography at dawn or dusk.

Culinary Guide

Food in Northglenn

Colorado’s dining scene blends Western comfort with farm-to-table cuisine, Mexican and Latin influences, and growing craft beverage culture. In and around Northglenn you’ll find hearty, casual options as well as modern eateries that emphasize fresh ingredients and creative flavors.

Northglenn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Colorado Green Chile

A medium-spicy, slow-simmered pepper stew often served with burritos or as a standalone dish; try it at Southwest-influenced eateries and casual Mexican joints in the area.

Must-Try!

Bison Burger

Lean, flavorful burgers common at local American bistros and diners; a great showcase for regional meat options and char-grilled flavor.

Smoked Colorado Ribs

Slow-smoked barbecue ribs featuring regional spices; look for local BBQ joints and diners that specialize in fall-off-the-bone goodness.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Northglenn Farmers Market (seasonal)

Seasonal outdoor market with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and occasional food trucks offering quick bites.

Denver-area Food Trucks

Rotating trucks parked around shopping centers and event spaces; perfect for tasting diverse street foods from tacos to Asian-inspired bowls.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with occasional afternoon storms; winters are cold with possible snow; spring and autumn are mild with changing temperatures. The altitude contributes to quick weather shifts and bright sun year-round.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

General Courtesy

Northglenn and the Denver area appreciate friendly greetings, polite conversation, and respect for personal space in public and retail spaces.

Queueing and Personal Space

People tend to form orderly queues; avoid cutting in line and keep a reasonable distance in crowded spaces.

Tipping Practice

Tipping is customary in service industries; express appreciation with a tip appropriate to the service received.

Safety Guide

Safety

Northglenn is generally a safe suburban area with typical urban safety considerations. Keep an eye on personal belongings in public spaces, especially in crowded areas, and use well-lit routes at night. For more specialized safety information, consult local advisories and official city resources.

Tipping in Northglenn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In the United States, tip restaurant servers 15-20% of the bill before tax. For bar service or coffee counters, a smaller tip (about $1-2 per drink) is common. Ride-sharing or taxi drivers typically expect 10-20% tips.

Payment Methods

Most venues accept credit/debit cards and mobile payments. Cash is accepted everywhere, but cards are standard for larger transactions and tips.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Hydration and sun protection are essential; mornings are often pleasant, with long daylight hours.

Autumn

Mild to cool temperatures with colorful fall foliage. Great for outdoor activities and photography, especially in late September to October.

Winter

Cold with light to moderate snow possible. Dress in layers; some outdoor trails may be icy, but urban areas stay accessible.

Spring

Warming temperatures with scattered rain showers. Ideal for outdoor exploration and blooming landscapes along trails.

Nightlife Guide

Northglenn at Night

Northglenn itself offers limited nightlife, mostly casual bars and family-friendly venues. For a wider range of options—live music, craft breweries, and nightlife scenes—head to nearby Denver neighborhoods like RiNo, LoDo, or Arvada, where venues range from intimate bars to larger clubs and venues.

Hiking in Northglenn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

High Line Canal Trail

Expanded canal-side trail system with varying distances, offering scenic urban-to-rural transitions and wildlife viewing.

Lookout Mountain Trail

Scenic trail with mountain views located to the west; a longer drive from Northglenn but a popular day trip for hikers.

Castlewood Canyon State Park Trail

Rocky canyon trails with dramatic red rock formations and river views; a longer drive but a rewarding park for day trips.

Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre area trails

Iconic trails with views of the surrounding foothills; combine a hike with an iconic music venue and stunning panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Northglenn by plane.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Major international airport located southeast of Northglenn; extensive domestic and international flight options; accessible via I-70 and E-470.

Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport (BJC)

General aviation airport located near Broomfield/Westminster; a smaller facility primarily serving private planes and charter services.

Centennial Airport (APA)

General aviation airport near Englewood; serves private and corporate flights; additional travel options for quicker hops within the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkability is moderate in central areas with sidewalks, parks, and mixed-use spaces. For longer trips and most commuting, a car or public transit is common, as suburbs like Northglenn are designed with driving in mind.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households with school-age children; strong emphasis on parks, recreation, and community events.

Young professionals

Commuters seeking affordable housing relative to central Denver, with access to job centers in denser suburbs.

Diverse residents

A mix of White, Hispanic/Latino, and other communities contributing to a varied local culture and cuisine.

Retirees

Quiet neighborhoods and accessible amenities attract retirees seeking a calm suburban lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Popular at high school, college, and professional levels across Colorado; local leagues and viewing options are common in the metro.

Basketball

Strong community leagues and easy access to professional teams via nearby Denver venues.

Soccer

Growing participation at youth and adult levels; local clubs and fields are common throughout suburban areas.

Winter sports

Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are popular excursions in the nearby mountain resorts within a short drive.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be heavier during weekday rush hours along I-25, E-470, and surrounding corridors. Public transit and carpool options help alleviate congestion; plan extra travel time during peak periods and peak events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Northglenn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most local eateries offer vegetarian options such as veggie burritos, salads, plant-based bowls, and quesadillas. When ordering, ask for vegetables, beans, rice, and salsa-based dishes; many menus also note vegetarian substitutions. If you have stricter needs, opt for places with clearly marked vegetarian items or customizable bowls and salads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access is strong in the Denver metro area with multiple hospitals, clinics, and urgent care centers within a short drive. Nearby facilities include general hospitals and specialty clinics; emergency services are widely available through regional networks.

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Read more in our United States 2025 Travel Guide.

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