Lakewood, Colorado: Experience the Best of Urban-Suburban Living in the Rocky Mountains

Founded in 1889 by Charles Welch Wah, the community of Lakewood began as an urban-suburban development. Over the years, Lakewood grew to become the largest and most populous community in Jefferson County, Colorado, second only to Denver in terms of population in the state, and the 172nd most populous city in the United States.

Where is Lakewood Colorado

Lakewood is located about 7 miles south of Denver, the state capital, nestled in the breathtaking Rocky Mountains where it offers residents and visitors unparalleled access to the great outdoors. The city is part of the Denver-Aurora-City of Lakewood Co. Metropolitan Statistical Area and is a significant town in the Front Range city corridor. Its mayor is elected by the ten councilors who also represent the city's politics and the functioning of the government.

Lakewood Politics

The town of Lakewood is represented in the House by Republicans Chris Kennedy, Kerry Tipper, and Monica Duran. It is home to several highly-ranked high schools, including Lakewood High School, Green Mountain High School, and Bear Creek High School, as well as the private Colorado Academy and Brady Exploration High School. Lakewood is a vibrant city with a rich history, a thriving arts and culture scene, excellent schools, and an impressive array of recreational amenities.

How Lakewood Began

Lakewood's history can be traced back to the end of the 19th century, when it established itself as a summer resort for wealthy residents of Denver. The city is home to several institutions of higher education, including Colorado Christian University and Red Rock Community College. For history buffs or those interested in getting to know the city's rich past, the Lakewood Heritage Center located in Belmar Park is a must-visit. It houses a museum with over ten historic buildings, more than thirty thousand artifacts, an outdoor amphitheater, and hosts local festivals throughout the year.

People That Love Outdoor Activities are Drawn to Lakewood

Lakewood boasts a remarkable landscape and is home to 99 parks, green belt and nature trails that showcase the natural beauty of the area. It is a paradise for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing. Art enthusiasts can get their fill of culture as the city has a designated district with several galleries and art installations.

Belmar is another must-visit for shoppers and foodies. It is a modern shopping hub offering a variety of restaurants, breweries, shops, and nightlife. The Colorado Mills, one of the largest shopping malls in the city, has over one million square feet of space and more than 135 stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue, Eddie Bauer Outlets, H&M, and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Jefferson County

Residents of Lakewood enjoy a low cost of living, top-ranked schools, low crime rates, and access to excellent healthcare facilities. The city has some of the largest employers in Colorado, including the Denver Federal Center, Jefferson County R-1 School District, St. Anthony's Hospital, FirstBank of Lakewood City, and Kaiser Permanente. Lakewood has over 100 schools, ranging from pre-school to high school, including public schools, charter schools, and private academies.

Safety is a top priority in Lakewood, where the percentage of registered sex offenders is below the national average. According to research, there were 398 registered sexual offenders living in the city of Lakewood as of July 5, 2021.

Golf enthusiasts can head to the Fox Hollow Golf Course, which offers a mix of golf courses suitable for both novice and experienced golfers. The Bear Creek Greenbelt is another popular spot for those who want to see some of the local wildlife, such as coyotes, squirrels, and falcons.

Lakewood has Something for Everyone

Lakewood, Colorado, has everything to offer to those who are looking for a vibrant and thriving community with top-rated schools, an affordable cost of living, abundant recreational opportunities, and access to Denver's urban amenities. As you explore the Rocky Mountains and enjoy all that Lakewood has to offer, you'll be glad you chose this gem of a city as your new home.