Where Not to Park While in Denver

Hot Spots for Hot Cars

“You just got jacked – succah!”

Okay, I admit that this statement is a bit over the top for Denver – but we rank in the top 20 cities for motor vehicular crime. There are a variety of areas in Denver which are prime for car theft, vandalism and “mysterious” disappearances (such as personal items, wheels and car components). In many cases, it’s obvious where you should not park – but not always. Here are a few locations that are potential risks: ”">Auraria Campus: It’s dangerous to park anywhere around the Auraria Campus and especially along the side streets in the small, bordering neighborhoods. Seriously, kiss your ride goodbye if you’re parked anywhere between Colfax and 8th, south of the campus. If you park off W. Colfax or on Federal Boulevard, you’re just asking for trouble. 

Quick tip: If you must park in the Auraria Campus area, there are several non-permit parking places (such as the large, indoor facility off Auraria and 9th Street next to Tivoli Squarethat require no permit. Metered parking is available around the campus, although several have a stinking-short 2 hour limit.

Coors Field

During baseball season, there are several parking lots that open up around the stadium. The security is dubious at best for some and they usually give you a ticket/receipt that states they have no liability. Street parking is possible a few blocks away in almost every direction; however, be very careful when parking north or east of Coors Field.

Quick Tip: If you have the time and don’t mind walking, there are several indoor parking structures down on Larimer Street, Market Street and Blake Street. The average walk to these garages is 10 – 20 minutes depending on how much flat beer your passengers consumed.

Cherry Creek Shopping Center

If you shop here regularly and don’t use the parking structure, you obviously care little for your ride. Still, it can be a royal pain to find a decent parking place in the Creek Shopping Center. Unfortunately, some of the side streets are not the safest places for your vehicle. Its not just the theft that is a worry here, so many of the side streets are very narrow and accidents involving parked cars is rampant. 

Quick Tip: Try parking in the Bed Bath and Beyond parking lot. Just remember to walk like the world owes you something so you fit in. East 1st Avenue connects to a few fair sized streets that may have parking too.