Niwot

The town originally took form as a railroad stop in 1873 due to its perfect location between the larger cities of Boulder and Longmont.

Welcome to Niwot

Quaint, artistic town with a quirky history​​​​​​​

This adorable and creative town located northwest of Denver is a welcoming retreat and home away from the metropolitan areas of Colorado. Just 33 miles by car, the small population of 4,000 is warm and friendly. Interestingly enough, Niwot is categorized as an “unofficial town” because it doesn’t have an official mayor.

Despite its unofficial status, Niwot, CO real estate and it's small-town offerings are the real deal. Over at Second Avenue (Niwot’s historic main street), you can stop by hip art galleries and storefronts. The community is known for its artistic and musical character and distinct markers, with fun attractions like an eclectic town sign and marching band. Many argue Niwot is the most spirited “town” of all—just look to the 25-foot mural facing the highway titled “The Spirit of Niwot.”

The town originally took form as a railroad stop in 1873 due to its perfect location between the larger cities of Boulder and Longmont. Niwot’s name comes from Chief Niwot, an Arapaho Indian leader who welcomed settlers to the area in the mid-1800s. In town, there are bountiful and gorgeous luxury estates for sale in many styles.

What to Love

  • Folksy art and culture scene
  • Tight-knit and trustworthy community
  • One-of-a-kind shops and stores
  • Retro vibes with an old-fashioned neighborhood aesthetic

People & Lifestyle

The people of Niwot call themselves Niwotians and have a very distinct town identity and community pride. Because there is no mayor, many of the residents volunteer and become close through putting on community events together.

Many of the people in town are creatively involved, whether it be through music or art. There are lots of fun organizations, such as Ni-wot Prairie Productions, the Niwot Cultural Arts Association, the Niwot Business Association, and the Niwot Community Association.

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

Niwotians love celebrating and supporting their local businesses. 1914 House is an American-style restaurant with an innovative menu and sustainably grown ingredients (try the Chicken Piccata or Wasabi Ribeye). Colterra also uses local ingredients—some of the produce even coming straight from the garden next to the patio! Lucky Pie Pizza is a local Colorado chain where the pizza is made from fresh Colorado dough daily and cooked in a hand-built brick oven; they also pride themselves in a plethora of craft beers. The Garden Gate Cafe specializes in affordable breakfast and lunch dishes that are scrumptious. The service is also unbeatable.

Niwot calls itself “Vintage Colorado,” and the shopping scene proves it. Wise Buys Antiques, the only antique store in town, has unique items that draw visitors from near and far. The Niwot Market is a mix of a mega-health food grocery store and locally sourced neighborhood corner shop.

Things to Do

Looking for summertime fun? Every Thursday night, get out and dance at the festive Rock and Rails evenings—a series of free concerts taking place June through August, with a happy hour in the park. The event has won the Governor’s Award for Downtown Excellence for Best Promotional Event!

Niwot Jazz Fest is the newly initiated annual music festival that has had thousands of patrons from across America come to hear the lineup. Performances also include international genres, including Latin, funk, fusion, and big band jazz. Want live music year-round? Treppeda’s Italian Ristorante has both casual and fine dining (try their wood-fired pizza), and many come to hear the regularly hosted live jazz performances in the establishment.

If you have a family, Niwot Children’s Park is a wonderful place to play. The area was initially created by a local couple who moved to Niwot and wanted a place their kids could call their own.

Throughout the year, be sure to walk through town and witness the art, murals, and sculptures everywhere—inside businesses and even on the streets. On the first Friday of every month, art galleries come together to open up for a community art walk. There are also Niwot pride art competitions.

Schools

Schools in Niwot are zoned to the St. Vrain Valley School District. Highlights include:

  • Niwot Elementary School, Public, PK-5
  • Niwot High School, Public, 9-12
  • Rocky Mountain Christian Academy, Private, PK-8
  • Dawson School, Private, PK-12

LIVE THE LIFE THAT YOU HAVE IMAGINED