How to Walk Five Points Revitalized Streets Denver

Five Points, Denver’s historic heart of African American culture and commerce, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past two decades. Once marked by economic decline and urban neglect, this vibrant neighborhood has been revitalized through thoughtful urban planning, community-led initiatives, and a deep respect for its rich heritage. Today, walking the revitalized streets of Five Points offers more than just a stroll—it’s an immersive journey through art, history, cuisine, and resilience. Whether you’re a local resident, a visitor exploring Denver’s cultural landscape, or a urban enthusiast interested in equitable revitalization, learning how to walk Five Points’ revitalized streets is essential to understanding the soul of the city.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to experiencing Five Points on foot—highlighting safe, meaningful, and enriching ways to navigate its transformed corridors. You’ll discover how to engage with the neighborhood’s public spaces, support local businesses, interpret its cultural landmarks, and contribute to its continued evolution. This isn’t just a walking tour; it’s a practice in mindful urban exploration rooted in respect, awareness, and community connection.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Plan Your Route Before You Step Out

Before heading out, map out a walking route that respects the neighborhood’s natural flow and key destinations. Five Points is compact, roughly bounded by Colfax Avenue to the north, 38th Avenue to the south, Broadway to the west, and Downing Street to the east. A recommended loop begins at the Five Points Intersection—where Welton Street meets Colfax Avenue—and follows a clockwise path through the heart of the neighborhood.

Use free digital tools like Google Maps or the City of Denver’s official pedestrian map to identify sidewalks, crosswalks, and ADA-compliant pathways. Avoid shortcuts through alleys or unlit areas, especially after dusk. Stick to main corridors like Welton Street, Curtis Street, and 26th Avenue, where foot traffic is high and businesses are active.

Consider timing: weekdays between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. offer the best balance of safety, activity, and accessibility. Weekends bring live music, farmers markets, and pop-up art installations, making them ideal for cultural immersion.

2. Start at the Five Points Intersection

Your journey begins at the iconic Five Points Intersection—the literal and symbolic center of the neighborhood. Here, Colfax Avenue meets Welton Street, once known as “Harlem of the West.” Look for the historic “Five Points” street sign, a bronze plaque embedded in the sidewalk, and the mural honoring jazz legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Charlie Parker, who performed here in the 1940s and 50s.

Take a moment to observe the architecture: brick facades with ornate cornices, restored storefronts, and new developments that blend modern aesthetics with historic preservation. Notice how the street design prioritizes pedestrians—wider sidewalks, street trees, and reduced vehicle lanes compared to pre-revitalization conditions.

Use this point to orient yourself. Identify landmarks: the Regis University campus to the northeast, the Denver Public Library’s Five Points Branch to the southeast, and the historic Rossonian Hotel just two blocks east on Welton.

3. Walk Welton Street: The Cultural Corridor

Head south on Welton Street, the neighborhood’s most culturally significant thoroughfare. This stretch is lined with Black-owned businesses, historic churches, and public art installations. Don’t rush—this is where history breathes.

Stop at the Black American West Museum & Heritage Center (2638 Welton St), a small but powerful institution showcasing the contributions of African American cowboys, pioneers, and settlers in the American West. Entry is free, and staff often offer impromptu storytelling sessions.

Continue to the Rossonian Hotel, a Jazz Age landmark that hosted Duke Ellington and Billie Holiday. Though the hotel is currently under renovation, its exterior remains a protected historic site. Look for the interpretive plaques detailing its legacy.

At 25th Street, pause at the Five Points Community Garden, a community-led green space that transforms vacant lots into productive, beautiful areas. Many gardens here are maintained by local residents and feature native plants, composting stations, and educational signage.

4. Explore Curtis Street: Art, Food, and Innovation

Turn east onto Curtis Street, a dynamic corridor where old meets new. Once a neglected corridor, Curtis is now home to a mix of independent cafés, art galleries, and tech startups—all housed in renovated early 20th-century buildings.

Visit Creole Kitchen for authentic Louisiana-inspired cuisine or Denver’s First Coffee, a Black-owned roastery that sources beans directly from African and Caribbean farms. Both offer outdoor seating perfect for people-watching.

Look up to see the “We Are Five Points” mural on the side of the Curtis Street Community Center. Created by local artist Kiana James, it depicts generations of residents—children, elders, musicians, and activists—united in community.

Continue to the Denver Public Library’s Five Points Branch, a modernized facility that opened in 2021 with expanded community rooms, free Wi-Fi, and a dedicated local history archive. Even if you’re not checking out books, the space is open to all and often hosts free workshops on financial literacy, urban gardening, and digital skills.

5. Traverse 26th Avenue: The Greenway Connection

From Curtis, head south to 26th Avenue. This stretch is part of the Five Points Greenway, a pedestrian- and bike-friendly corridor designed to connect the neighborhood to the Platte River Trail system. The path is paved, well-lit, and lined with native grasses, benches, and public art.

Look for the “Memory Lane” installation—a series of engraved bricks honoring residents who shaped the neighborhood’s history. Each brick bears a name, a date, and a brief note of contribution, from teachers to barbers to civil rights organizers.

At 26th and Champa, you’ll find the Five Points Community Center, which hosts weekly events like yoga in the park, youth art classes, and free health screenings. Check the center’s bulletin board for upcoming activities.

6. Visit the Historic Churches and Sacred Spaces

Five Points has long been a spiritual anchor for its community. Two churches stand out: St. Mary’s African Methodist Episcopal Church (2500 Welton St), founded in 1874, and Mount Zion Baptist Church (2600 Welton St), established in 1901. Both are active congregations and open to visitors during daylight hours.

Take a quiet moment to admire their stained glass, bell towers, and community outreach boards. Many churches here run food pantries, mentorship programs, and senior services—visible signs of the neighborhood’s enduring social fabric.

7. End at the Five Points Plaza

Conclude your walk at Five Points Plaza, a recently redesigned public square at the corner of 26th and Welton. This space features shade structures, seating made from recycled materials, and rotating art exhibits by local youth artists.

Many evenings, the plaza hosts “Sound on the Corner,” an open-mic series featuring poets, jazz musicians, and spoken word artists. Even if there’s no event, sit on a bench and reflect. This plaza was created through community input—every detail chosen by residents, not developers.

8. Return with Intention

As you head back to your starting point, observe how the neighborhood has changed—and how it has stayed true to itself. Notice the new bike racks, the solar-powered streetlights, the community gardens replacing abandoned lots. But also notice the unchanged elements: the same storefronts with familiar faces, the same music drifting from open windows, the same sense of belonging.

Walk slowly. Make eye contact. Smile. These small acts honor the resilience of Five Points and affirm your role as a respectful visitor.

Best Practices

Respect the History, Not Just the Aesthetics

Five Points is not a theme park. Its revitalization is not about gentrification disguised as renewal—it’s about reclamation. Avoid treating historic sites as photo backdrops without understanding their significance. Read plaques. Ask questions. If you’re unsure about a building’s history, visit the Denver Public Library’s local history department or check the Five Points Neighborhood Association’s website for educational resources.

Support Local, Not Just “Trendy” Businesses

Look for signs that say “Black-Owned,” “Family-Run,” or “Community Supported.” These are the businesses that helped keep Five Points alive during its toughest years. Prioritize them over chain stores that have moved in recently. A coffee from Denver’s First Coffee supports a legacy. A meal at Creole Kitchen sustains a family. A book from the library’s local history section preserves memory.

Walk with Awareness, Not Assumptions

Not every corner you see is “up-and-coming.” Some homes are occupied by families who have lived here for generations. Avoid assuming that new developments mean “improvement” or that older buildings are “in need of fixing.” Many were preserved intentionally. Respect the rhythm of the neighborhood. Don’t loiter in front of homes. Don’t take photos of people without permission.

Follow Pedestrian Etiquette

Five Points’ sidewalks are wide, but they’re also busy. Walk on the right. Don’t stop suddenly in the middle of the path. Be mindful of people using mobility aids, strollers, or service animals. If you need to check your map, step to the side. This isn’t just courtesy—it’s part of creating a culture of shared space.

Leave No Trace

Carry out what you bring in. Use trash and recycling bins provided at public spaces. If you see litter, pick it up. Many residents volunteer for clean-up days, and your small action adds to a collective effort. Avoid chalk art, stickers, or graffiti—even if it seems harmless. Public spaces are maintained by community standards, not individual expression.

Engage, Don’t Intrude

If you see a community gathering—a block party, a church service, a memorial—observe from a distance. Don’t interrupt. If you’re invited to join, do so respectfully. Ask before taking photos. Say thank you. These are not performances for tourists; they are acts of community care.

Use Public Transit Wisely

If you’re not walking the entire route, use the RTD bus system. Routes 1, 15, and 16 serve Five Points and connect to downtown, the Denver Art Museum, and Union Station. Avoid parking on residential streets—many homes have permit-only parking. Use the paid parking lots at the Five Points Library or the Community Center if you must drive.

Be an Advocate, Not a Spectator

After your walk, consider how you can support Five Points beyond your visit. Follow local organizations on social media. Donate to the Five Points Neighborhood Association. Volunteer for a clean-up day. Write a review of a local business. Share your experience—but always center the voices of residents, not your own narrative.

Tools and Resources

Digital Tools for Walking

• Google Maps – Use the walking mode to plan your route, check real-time sidewalk conditions, and locate public restrooms.
• Denver Open Data Portal – Access maps of public art installations, historic districts, and pedestrian infrastructure projects.
• Five Points Neighborhood Association App – Download the official app (available on iOS and Android) for real-time event calendars, safety alerts, and walking tour audio guides.
• HistoryPin – A crowdsourced archive of historic photos of Five Points. Compare past and present views by overlaying images on your phone as you walk.

Print and On-Site Resources

• Five Points Walking Tour Brochure – Available for free at the Denver Public Library’s Five Points Branch, the Community Center, and select local businesses. Includes maps, historical context, and QR codes linking to oral histories.
• Denver Landmark Commission Guides – Detailed architectural profiles of every designated historic building in Five Points. Available online or in print at the City and County of Denver’s Civic Center Library.
• Audio Tour by Denver Public Radio – A 45-minute podcast narrated by local historians and residents. Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the Five Points Neighborhood Association website.

Community Organizations to Connect With

• Five Points Neighborhood Association – Coordinates community events, safety initiatives, and preservation efforts. Visit fivepointsdenver.org.
• Black American West Museum & Heritage Center – Offers guided walking tours by appointment. Contact them for school groups or private visits.
• Denver Landmarks Foundation – Hosts quarterly heritage walks and preservation workshops.
• Denver Urban Gardens – Volunteers welcome for garden maintenance. Learn how to grow food in urban spaces.

Books and Media for Deeper Understanding

• Harlem of the West: The San Francisco Jazz Era in Five Points by Elizabeth Peña
• Denver’s Five Points: A History of the African American Community by Dr. Carol A. B. Washington
• Urban Renewal and the Politics of Memory – A documentary film by Denver-based filmmaker Marcus Johnson (available on YouTube and Kanopy).

Real Examples

Example 1: The Revival of the Rossonian Hotel

In 2018, the Rossonian Hotel—a once-decaying Jazz landmark—was on the verge of demolition. A coalition of historians, local artists, and residents launched a campaign to save it. They collected oral histories from former patrons, petitioned the city for landmark status, and secured a $12 million public-private funding package. Today, the building is being restored to its 1920s grandeur, with plans to open a cultural center, recording studio, and affordable housing units. The project was designed with community input: residents voted on the color of the facade, the name of the courtyard, and the types of performances to be hosted.

Example 2: The Five Points Community Garden Movement

Before 2015, 17 vacant lots in Five Points were used for illegal dumping. A group of senior residents, led by 78-year-old Martha Williams, began cleaning them one weekend at a time. With help from Denver Urban Gardens, they transformed the spaces into 12 community gardens. Today, over 200 families grow vegetables, herbs, and flowers there. Each garden has a name—“Ella’s Greens,” “Charlie’s Herbs”—honoring jazz legends. The gardens now host seasonal harvest festivals and cooking classes for youth.

Example 3: The “We Are Five Points” Mural Project

In 2020, a city-funded public art initiative aimed to beautify Curtis Street. Instead of hiring an outside artist, the city partnered with local high school students. Over six months, 32 teens interviewed elders, studied neighborhood history, and designed a 150-foot mural. The final piece features 47 portraits of real residents—teachers, bus drivers, barbers, and a 9-year-old girl who won a city art contest. The mural was unveiled during a neighborhood-wide celebration, with every participant named in the plaque below.

Example 4: The Quiet Revolution of the Five Points Library

When the old Five Points Library closed in 2019, many feared the loss of a vital community hub. The new branch, opened in 2021, was designed with direct input from residents. They requested more seating, free printing, a quiet room for remote workers, and a dedicated section for Black authors. Today, the library sees over 1,200 visitors weekly—not just for books, but for job training, ESL classes, and free mental health counseling. It’s now one of the most used public buildings in Denver.

FAQs

Is Five Points safe to walk?

Yes, the revitalized streets of Five Points are generally safe for pedestrians during daylight and early evening hours. The neighborhood has seen a significant drop in crime since 2015 due to community policing, improved lighting, and increased foot traffic. Stick to main corridors, avoid isolated alleys after dark, and trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable, enter a business or call a local resident for advice.

Can I bring my dog?

Yes, dogs are welcome on sidewalks and in most public spaces, as long as they are leashed and you clean up after them. The Five Points Community Garden and Five Points Plaza have designated dog-friendly zones. Some restaurants have pet-friendly patios—look for signs.

Are there public restrooms?

Yes. Restrooms are available at the Five Points Library, the Community Center, and inside select businesses like Creole Kitchen and Denver’s First Coffee. Many businesses welcome visitors to use their facilities even if you’re not making a purchase.

Do I need to pay to walk or visit these places?

No. All public sidewalks, parks, plazas, and outdoor spaces in Five Points are free to access. Some museums and special events may have suggested donations, but no one will turn you away for lack of payment.

What’s the best time of year to walk Five Points?

Spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather and the highest number of outdoor events. Summer brings live music and farmers markets; winter is quieter but still vibrant, with holiday lights and cozy cafés.

How long does the full walking tour take?

A leisurely walk covering all key sites takes 2.5 to 3 hours. If you want to stop for coffee, chat with vendors, or explore interiors, plan for 4–5 hours. You can also break it into two shorter walks—one focused on history, the other on food and art.

Can I take photos?

You may photograph buildings, public art, and landscapes. Do not photograph people without asking, especially children and elders. Avoid photographing private homes or interiors without permission. Many residents are proud of their neighborhood and may welcome a conversation if you express genuine interest.

How can I support Five Points after my visit?

Buy from local businesses online. Follow and share content from Five Points organizations. Donate to the Five Points Neighborhood Association. Volunteer for clean-ups or events. Write a review on Google or Yelp. Most importantly—return. Your presence matters.

Conclusion

Walking the revitalized streets of Five Points is not merely a physical act—it is a political, cultural, and emotional practice. This neighborhood did not become vibrant by accident. Its transformation was forged through decades of resistance, creativity, and unwavering community determination. Every mural, every garden, every restored storefront tells a story of people refusing to be erased.

As you walk these streets, you are not just observing history—you are stepping into a living, breathing legacy. You are walking where Ella Fitzgerald once sang, where children learned to read in church basements, where neighbors shared meals during times of hardship, and where today, a new generation is writing the next chapter.

There is no single “right” way to walk Five Points. But there is a right way to be there: with humility, with curiosity, with respect. Listen more than you speak. Look closely. Ask questions. Support the people who built this place. And when you leave, carry its spirit with you—not as a souvenir, but as a responsibility.

Five Points is not a destination to check off a list. It is a call to engage, to remember, and to act. Walk slowly. Walk with intention. Walk with heart.