When you think about life in Lakewood, CO, the incredible access to outdoor adventure usually comes to mind first. But the local scene is just as vibrant and diverse, offering everything from massive outlet deals to award-winning craft IPAs. Velo Apartments sits at the center of it all, giving you the perfect home base to explore the West Side’s best retail, food, and drink.
Key Takeaways
- Retail Anchors: Lakewood’s shopping is centered around Colorado Mills (indoor outlets) and Belmar (the walkable “downtown” district).
- Craft Culture: The area is a hotspot for the Colorado brewery scene, with local favorites just a short Uber ride from Velo.
- Artistic Edge: The 40 West Arts District offers a local, indie alternative to the big-box shopping centers.
- Prime Location: Living at Velo Apartments at 3481 S Fenton St means you are minutes from the foothills and seconds from urban convenience.
Lakewood’s Premier Shopping: Malls & Districts
Lakewood’s retail scene is dominated by two major players. Whether you’re hunting for a bargain or a boutique experience, you have a top-tier option just minutes away.
Colorado Mills: The Ultimate Outlet Destination
For brand-name lovers and serious bargain hunters, Colorado Mills is the ultimate all-weather shopping destination. As the Denver metro’s only indoor outlet mall, it serves as a true bargain hunter’s paradise, featuring over 175 factory stores including Nike, Coach, and J.Crew Factory. Inside, you’ll find a massive selection of clothing, shoes, and more, all complemented by a family-friendly atmosphere and a diverse food court.
Its easy accessibility from the highway makes it a quick and convenient trip for Velo residents looking to score major deals without leaving the comfort of the indoors.
- Velo Tip: While Colorado Mills is unbeatable for fashion and footwear, many locals also head across the street to Denver West for high-end outdoor gear and specialty retailers like REI and Whole Foods.
“As the Denver metro’s only indoor outlet mall, Colorado Mills serves as a true bargain hunter’s paradise with over 175 factory stores just minutes from Velo.”
Belmar: Lakewood’s Walkable Downtown
For those seeking a classic “Main Street” experience, Belmar is the definitive answer. Designed as an outdoor, walkable plaza, it has evolved into the bustling community hub of Lakewood.
Here, you’ll find a seamless mix of national favorites like Target and Nordstrom Rack alongside upscale local boutiques, a huge variety of restaurants, and a movie theater. More than just a retail destination, Belmar serves as a vibrant gathering spot for frequent community events and seasonal attractions, including an outdoor skating rink in the winter.
Head-to-Head: Choosing Your Lakewood Shopping Experience
Still not sure where to go? This chart breaks down the vibe of each destination to help you pick the perfect spot for your day.
| Shopping Center | Type | Vibe / Atmosphere | Best For… | Parking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Mills | Indoor Outlet Mall | Family-friendly, busy, deal-focused | Brand-name bargains, rainy days | Large free lots |
| Belmar | Outdoor Shopping District | Upscale, walkable, community feel | Date night, dining, and events | Free garages & street parking |
Sips & Bites: The Lakewood Dining & Brewery Scene
Life at Velo isn’t just about where you shop, it’s about where you celebrate the weekend. Lakewood has quietly become one of the best spots in the metro area for craft beer and international cuisine.
Local Breweries to Call Your Own
You don’t have to head into Downtown Denver for a world-class pour. The West Side brewery scene is thriving:
- WestFax Brewing Co.: Located right next to the iconic Casa Bonita, they are known for creative brews and one of the best dog-friendly patios in the city.
- 6 Capital Brewing: A fantastic spot for those who want high-quality BBQ paired with craft beer in a modern, industrial space.
- Ironworks Brewery & Pub: A local staple for those who love a cozy, neighborhood feel and reliable pub fare after a day in the foothills.
Discover Unique & Locally Owned Shops
While the major centers are convenient, the locally owned shops are where Lakewood’s unique character really shines.
40 West Arts District: A Hub for Creatives
Along the historic Colfax Avenue, you’ll find the 40 West Arts District, a state-certified creative hub. This area is packed with independent art galleries, artist studios, and performance spaces. It’s the perfect place to discover unique jewelry, handmade gifts, and original decor to personalize your apartment.
Hidden Boutiques and Thrifting
Beyond the arts district, Lakewood boasts a great selection of high-end consignment shops and vintage boutiques. Exploring these smaller stores along the Union Blvd corridor is a sustainable and stylish way to furnish your home or find that one-of-a-kind wardrobe piece.
Velo Apartments: Your Hub for Lakewood Exploration
Located at 3481 S Fenton St, Velo Apartments offers a prime location that balances the peace of the Bear Valley neighborhood with immediate access to Lakewood’s top destinations. Whether you’re heading out for a morning coffee or a weekend spree, you’re perfectly positioned to explore.
- The Commute: Short drive times to Colorado Mills (~12 minutes), Belmar (~8 minutes), and the 40 West Arts District (~10 minutes) mean you’re never far from your next shopping or dining adventure. Plus, with a quick 20-minute drive, you can be in the heart of Downtown Denver.
- Transit Friendly: For those who prefer to skip the traffic, the area is well-served by RTD. Major bus stops like W Hampden Ave & S Harlan St are just steps from your front door, providing easy connections to the wider metro area.
- Outdoor Connectivity: Beyond the retail, Velo’s central location provides direct access to the Bear Creek Greenbelt and Bear Creek Lake Park, making it easy to transition from a day of shopping to a sunset bike ride.
Your home at Velo isn’t just an apartment; it’s a launchpad for the very best of Colorado living.
FAQs: Your Lakewood Shopping Questions Answered
Lakewood is anchored by two major retail hubs: Colorado Mills and Belmar. Colorado Mills is a massive indoor outlet mall making it ideal for year-round shopping. Belmar functions as Lakewood’s outdoor “downtown,” offering a mix of national retailers and local boutiques in a walkable, plaza-style environment.
Colorado Mills is highly regarded as a top destination for outlet shopping in the Denver metro area. With over 175 stores, it’s popular for finding deals on brand-name clothing and goods.
While the outlets at Colorado Mills offer great deals on athletic apparel, most locals head to the nearby Denver West area for specialized mountain gear. This retail hub features major outdoor retailers stocked with everything from high-end skis and bikes to essential hiking and camping equipment.
Absolutely. Lakewood and the surrounding West Side neighborhoods are known for a fantastic variety of thrift and consignment shops. Whether you’re looking for a sustainable way to refresh your wardrobe or searching for unique, mid-century furniture and vintage decor to personalize your apartment, the local secondhand scene offers plenty of high-quality, budget-friendly options.
Lakewood’s craft beer scene is one of the best in the Denver metro area, offering a diverse mix of local hangouts. Whether you’re looking for experimental rotating taps on a dog-friendly patio, artisan brews paired with slow-smoked BBQ, or a cozy community atmosphere focused on traditional styles, there’s a neighborhood spot nearby for every type of beer lover.
Your Perfect Lakewood Home Base Awaits
From scoring major deals at Colorado Mills to finding your new favorite “third place” at a local coffee shop or brewery, Lakewood offers a lifestyle of total convenience. Living at Velo Apartments means you are at the heart of the West Side’s best experiences.
Ready to see what makes our community the ideal home base for your Colorado lifestyle? Check out Velo Apartments and schedule a tour today to find your new home in Lakewood.
