Derby is one of the unincorporated communities located in and governed by the local government of Adams County in Colorado, United States. According to statistics by the US Census Bureau, the small municipality is home to about 8,400 residents.
This locale has a unique identity as a charming suburban neighborhood, but it’s also known as the central business district of Commerce City today. Its streets are lined with a variety of boutique stores and retail businesses. Over the years, the local city administration has been revitalizing the Downtown Derby District through renovations and landscaping to make the community livelier and more vibrant.
Discover the History of Derby, Colorado
Derby has long been a part of Denver for centuries but it hasn’t been fully recognized as a city or town by the state. It’s situated just a few miles northeast of Denver’s Union Station and according to early records, the region was one of the stops in the Burlington and Colorado Railroad before reaching Mile High City.
For years, Derby served as the main supply center for the agricultural sector of the surrounding cities. Like many of its neighboring communities, Derby also relied on farming as their primary source of livelihood in its early years. Families owned farms that varied in size and produced crops such as wheat and potatoes.
In 1942, it transformed into a busy commercial hub along with the construction of the Rocky Mountain Arsenal, bringing a great number of people to its suburbs. At the end of World War 2, Derby was truly recognized as a bedroom community in Denver.
In pursuit of the borough’s development, Derby was eventually annexed with Irondale as part of the Commerce City that people know today. Nowadays, it’s commonly recognized as the heart and downtown area of Commerce City where many mixed-use commercial buildings and businesses are thriving. You can also find many open space parks, trails, and recreation facilities sprawled around the small community.
A Look into Community Living in Derby
Derby is a great residential community for anyone who’s looking for a quiet neighborhood with easy access to open spaces and other amenities. Here’s an overview of what living in Derby is like:
1) Derby Downtown District
One of the main attractions of the community is the historic Derby Downtown District. It’s a triangular-shaped area bordered by Highway 2 and E. 72nd Avenue. Also dubbed as the center of Commerce City, it has a bustling business area with a vibrant arts and culture scene.
Plans for Derby Art District are currently underway to serve as the main venue for up-and-coming artists and creatives in the community. It will feature exclusive galleries and studios that showcase and support Derby’s local talents.
2) Neighborhoods
From single-family homes to townhouses, there are a variety of residential properties within Derby’s neighborhoods. As a walkable community, many homeowners can run their errands and visit the local parks and facilities conveniently on foot. There are also plenty of transportation options so you can travel to and from other neighboring cities.
3) Most-Awaited Events
To foster the community spirit, Derby residents also celebrate several events and festivals every year. During May, the streets of Derby and Commerce City are filled with floats, cars, and horses for a 1.5-mile parade to commemorate Memorial Day.
It’s one of the largest Memorial Day events throughout the state of Colorado. They celebrate July 4th Independence Day with large fireworks displays and on Christmas, they hold a tree lighting and art show sponsored by the Commerce City Cultural Council.
Nature Trails and Outdoor Parks Near Derby
Residents can find several open-space parks and outdoor attractions in and around the community of Derby. Here are some of the popular spots that you can visit when you’re in Derby:
1) Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge
If you want to immerse yourself in Denver’s natural beauty, you can make a stop at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. Previously a site for manufacturing chemical weapons during World War II, the RMA is now home to a variety of native wildlife animals such as deer, bison, birds, and prairie dogs. There are tours you can take to view the animals in their natural habitat.
2) Pioneer Park
This is the largest public park that can be accessed by residents of Commerce City and Derby. It has 4 baseball fields, batting cages, skate parks, playgrounds, and several picnic areas where people can hold outdoor gatherings and events. It also has a waterpark with different size pools and other interactive water features where families can cool down in the summer.
3) Freedom Park
Another popular community amenity that can be enjoyed by the public in Derby is Freedom Park. Located on 64th Avenue and Olive Street in Commerce City, it’s a small park that features a kid’s playground, gazebos, and picnic areas. It also has an open field where residents can play soccer and other activities.
Recreational Activities for Locals and Tourists in Derby
There are also other activities that can be enjoyed by the fun-loving and active community of Derby. Here are some of the common recreational activities that you can try when you’re visiting the area:
1) Fishing
You can find different bodies of water within the vicinity of Derby where you can try your luck at fishing. Some of the popular fishing sites are the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge, South Platte River, Croke Reservoir Park, and Aurora Reservoir.
2) Hiking
There are also several outdoor trails in and around the community where you can enjoy hiking, biking, or jogging. One of the popular hiking spots is Dahlia Trailhead which features a 14.3 mile walking trail in the midst of nature. If you’re up for an adventure, you can head on to the neighboring town of Brighton where you can visit the beautiful trails and bird-watching sanctuary of Barr Lake State Park.
3) Golfing
Derby is also close to some of the best public golf courses in the state of Colorado. You can play on an 18-hole course at Buffalo Run Golf Course in Commerce City. It features an expansive green landscape and breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Other popular golfing spots near the community are The Ranch Country Club, Park Hill Golf Club, and Riverdale Dunes.
BellaNess Med Spa: Relax and Rejuvenate Your Skin in Derby CO
Although Derby is relatively a small municipality, it’s still flourishing as the central business district of Commerce City. It’s also conveniently located within a few miles away from the major cities and neighborhoods of metropolitan Denver.
If you’re looking for a med spa for your skin rejuvenation and beauty needs, you can also find some of the best aesthetic centers in and around the community. Our expert staff at BellaNess Med Spa can provide the best cosmetic service and care to help you maintain your healthy and beautiful skin while traveling in Derby.
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