Lower downtown Denver, or Lodo, offers a matchless blend of up scale living and authentic atmosphere. Historic warehouses and factories house luxurious lofts. Unique restaurants, breweries, and galleries line the streets, presenting eclectic opportunities for connoisseurs of all types. Entertainment for sports fans, arts lovers, and outdoor adventurers are merely footsteps away. If you want a distinctive and spicy downtown living experience, Lodo is the place for you.

Nestled near the intersection of Interstates 25 and 70, Lodo covers 26 square-blocks. 20th Street and Speer Blvd form its east and west boundaries, while Wewatta and Larimer Streets bound it to the north and south, respectively.

Lodo's roots stretch to the very beginning of Denver's wild west history. A gold rush brought hordes of fortune-hungry settlers to the region in the mid-19th century. General William Larimer saw great opportunity in this influx, and in 1858, began to construct buildings and city streets on his land. Larimer Square, the site of the general's first cabins, sits in the heart of Lodo. Although the early years of Denver's history were ones of changing fortunes and struggles, Larimer Square speaks to the city's determination to survive and flourish. Thanks to the efforts of insightful preservationists, Lodo's historic buildings were saved from demolition in the 1960's. Urban renewal in the late 1980's helped make Lodo what it is today-a neighborhood that pays homage to its past, while looking with great hope to its future.

Lodo is ideal for the environmental conscious city dweller. Because of its small size and plethora of businesses, most dining and shopping establishments can be reached on foot. Union Station sits in the heart of Lodo, offering the city's safe and convenient light rail system, in addition to Amtrak service. The light rail's exceptional success has set a national standard, and many cities look to Denver when establishing a system of their own. Plans for light rail expansion include an additional 119 miles of track to be built over the next 12 years. For shorter trips, simply catch a city bus at one of the many Lodo stops. Lodo's proximity to public transportation maximizes efficiency in daily living and helps keep Denver's auto emissions in check.

Opportunities for great times abound in Lodo. A pleasant stroll takes the arts aficionado to the Denver Performing Arts Center for concerts, plays, operas, movies, and ballets. Only New York's Lincoln Center holds more seats than this flourishing complex. Book lovers can find a grand selection of literature at Denver's famously cozy Tattered Cover, and enjoy a latte or cappuccino during their stay. Coor's Field, home of the Colorado Rockies, lies in the outskirts of Lodo, promising plenty of summer evening baseball for sports fans. The many quaint restaurants offer an eclectic selection of cuisine, ranging from bison burgers to gourmet fare. Despite its downtown location, Lodo also holds treats for the outdoor enthusiast. The Cherry Creek Trail runs through central Lodo, giving bikers, hikers, and runners safe access to beautiful Cherry Creek Park in the southern suburbs of Denver. And if you love to shop, Lodo has plenty to offer. In addition to the smaller boutiques and galleries, larger designer clothing stores can be found at the nearby 16th Street Mall

Lofts are the most luxurious and desirable way to enjoy Lodo living. Builders convert vast warehouses and historic factories to spacious homes, creating an urban chic ambiance exclusive to loft living. Exposed brick and timber lend a nostalgic feel, while open, airy spaces and modern amenities bring these exclusive properties into the 21st century. Prices range from the high three hundred thousands for cozy nooks, to multiple millions for expansive spaces at the apex of fashion and magnificence. Because Lodo is growing at an unprecedented pace, a loft in the heart of the action represents an excellent investment opportunity. The neighborhood's popularity is sky rocketing, and available space is at a premium, increasing the value of the neighborhood homes. In addition to offering a distinctive living opportunity now, a loft investment is sure to deliver great returns in the future.

Spicy and eclectic Lodo has much to offer-the full extent of its charm and appeal cannot be measured without a visit. If Lodo loft living piques your interest, please e-mail: Vali Wimberly, Realtor®

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