Today, I’m diving into the history and charm of the Bonnie Brae neighborhood in Denver, Colorado. When you’re new to Denver, you might come across the name Bonnie Brae and wonder, “Who is Bonnie Brae, and what makes this neighborhood special?” Well, Bonnie Brae isn’t a person—it’s a Gaelic term meaning “Pleasant Hill.” This picturesque community was developed in the 1920s by George Olinger, a prominent mortician and real estate developer in Denver. Inspired by the Gaelic name, Olinger wanted to create a peaceful, village-like neighborhood that mimicked a Scottish town, with curved streets and Tudor-style homes. Despite challenges during the Great Depression and World War II, Bonnie Brae has evolved into a thriving community, known for its strong sense of pride and engagement.
In this post, I’ll share the history, landmarks, and unique features of Bonnie Brae, along with its top dining and shopping spots, parks, and current luxury homes on the market. Whether you’re considering moving to Denver or looking for your next neighborhood to explore, Bonnie Brae should be at the top of your list.
Where is Bonnie Brae and How Did It Come to Be?
The Bonnie Brae neighborhood is located southeast of downtown Denver, just east of Wash Park. It was originally developed by George Olinger, a mortician and real estate mogul who wanted to create a serene, village-like neighborhood that was unique to Denver. Inspired by a similar subdivision in Kansas City named Bonnie Brae, Olinger hired a renowned landscape architect to design curved streets and peaceful residential spaces, a stark contrast to Denver’s typical grid layout.
However, Olinger’s real estate company went bankrupt in 1928, leaving the development in limbo until after World War II. It wasn’t until the late 1940s that Bonnie Brae regained its momentum, and custom homes began to spring up, giving the neighborhood its reputation for fine living and beautiful architecture.
Architectural Styles in Bonnie Brae
Though Olinger’s original vision was to control the architectural style in the neighborhood, the development’s bankruptcy left its original covenants unenforced. As a result, Bonnie Brae features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Tudor and English cottages to Mediterranean and post-war ranch homes. Today, you’ll even find contemporary designs replacing some of the original homes, making Bonnie Brae one of the most architecturally diverse neighborhoods in Denver.
Landmarks and Community Legacy
One of the neighborhood’s lasting charms is its historic landmarks. Two original businesses from the 1930s and 1940s still thrive today. The Bonnie Brae Tavern, opened in 1934, is a community favorite, and the Bonnie Brae Conoco Station, established in 1942, remains in operation, still run by the original owner’s family. These beloved establishments add to the neighborhood’s character and community spirit.
The Bonnie Brae neighborhood has a deep sense of community engagement, with locals actively participating in events, meetings, and activities. This engagement ensures that the pride Olinger envisioned continues to flourish today.
Dining and Shopping in Bonnie Brae
The commercial hub of Bonnie Brae stretches between Exposition and Ohio Streets, offering a variety of local dining and shopping options. Bonnie Brae Ice Cream, the Bonnie Brae Tavern, and Bonnie Brae Liquors are neighborhood staples. For a fun piece of history, head over to Linger, a popular restaurant in the LoHi neighborhood housed in one of George Olinger’s former mortuaries. While the setting is unique, the food is excellent, and the experience is rich with Denver history.
Parks and Outdoor Spaces in Bonnie Brae
At the heart of Bonnie Brae is Bonnie Brae Park, a 5-acre green space developed in 1936. With its pond, playground, tennis courts, and picnic areas, the park serves as the community’s centerpiece, bringing together families and friends for outdoor activities. Bonnie Brae Park symbolizes the completion of Olinger’s vision for the neighborhood, and remains a cherished spot for residents.
Why You Should Consider Living in Bonnie Brae
If you’re searching for a luxury home in Denver that offers both community and architectural charm, Bonnie Brae is a neighborhood you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re drawn to its unique architecture, its rich history, or its close-knit community, Bonnie Brae offers a one-of-a-kind living experience.
Be sure to check out my YouTube vlog attached to this blog for a deeper dive into Bonnie Brae’s history and homes. And if you’re thinking about moving to Denver, reach out to me—I’d love to help you find your perfect home in Bonnie Brae.
