Dove Valley, CO
County: Arapahoe
History
Dove Valley is a suburb located in Arapahoe County, Colorado, United States. The area was historically inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Arapaho and Cheyenne. The land, like much of Colorado, was part of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803 and later became part of the Kansas Territory.
In the late 19th century, the area around Dove Valley consisted mostly of farms and ranches. It was primarily an agricultural community with fertile land and access to water from the Cherry Creek. The Cherry Creek School District, one of the largest school districts in Colorado, was established in 1951 and serves the Dove Valley area.
Dove Valley's history took a significant turn in the late 20th century when it became a major hub for business and development. The suburb is best known as the home of the Denver Broncos NFL team. In the mid-1980s, the Broncos organization purchased a large plot of land in Dove Valley to build their training facility, later named the Paul D. Bowlen Memorial Broncos Centre.
The training facility attracts not only the Broncos but also other businesses and organizations to the area. Over the years, Dove Valley has seen substantial growth with the construction of office buildings, medical facilities, and various commercial spaces. Major companies have established their presence in Dove Valley, making it a thriving business community.
Today, Dove Valley is a bustling suburb with a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial development. Its proximity to Denver and easy access to major highways makes it an attractive location for businesses and residents alike. The area continues to grow and evolve economically while maintaining its ties to the natural beauty of Colorado.
Attractions
Cherry Creek State Park
Located nearby, this state park offers a wide range of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, boating, swimming, and picnicking. It also has a large reservoir where you can enjoy fishing and paddleboarding.
Dove Valley Regional Park
This neighborhood park offers a variety of amenities like playgrounds, sports fields, walking trails, and open spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities.
InVINtions, A Creative Winery
Located in neighboring Greenwood Village, this winery offers wine tasting experiences where you can sample and create your own custom blends of wine.
Fiddler's Green Amphitheatre
A popular outdoor music venue situated in nearby Englewood. It hosts a range of concerts and live performances during the summer months.
Centennial Center Park
About a 15-minute drive away, this park features a splash pad, playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and various sports facilities, making it a great place for families to visit and enjoy the outdoors.
Park Meadows Mall
Just a short drive away in Lone Tree, this upscale shopping mall offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options for those looking for a retail therapy experience.
While Dove Valley itself is not packed with tourist attractions, being situated in the south metro Denver area means that there are many nearby attractions and activities that you can enjoy.
Climate
Dove Valley, CO has a semi-arid climate characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers in Dove Valley are typically warm and dry with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 29-35 degrees Celsius). However, occasional hot spells can push temperatures into the high 90s (around 37-38 degrees Celsius). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.
Winters in Dove Valley are cold and moderately snowy. Average temperatures range from the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (around 2-7 degrees Celsius). However, temperatures can drop below freezing, particularly during the nighttime. Snowfall is common, varying from light to moderate, with an average snowfall accumulation of around 50 inches (127 cm) per year.
Spring and fall in Dove Valley are transitional seasons characterized by mild temperatures. Spring tends to be slightly cooler, with average highs in the 60s (15-21 degrees Celsius), while fall sees average highs in the 60s to low 70s (around 15-24 degrees Celsius). These seasons are generally dry with minimal precipitation.
Overall, Dove Valley experiences a moderate climate with a wide range of temperatures throughout the year. It is important to note that weather conditions can vary from year to year, and occasional heatwaves or cold snaps can occur.
Neighborhoods
Dove Valley is an unincorporated community located in Arapahoe County, Colorado. Although it is mainly known for being the home of the Denver Broncos NFL team and their practice facility, it is also a residential area with a few distinct neighborhoods. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Dove Valley:
Dove Meadows
This neighborhood is located in the eastern portion of Dove Valley. It is a community of single-family homes, featuring a mix of ranch-style and two-story houses. Dove Meadows offers well-maintained streets, parks, and green spaces, making it a pleasant place to live.
Saddle Rock Ridge
Situated in the southern part of Dove Valley, Saddle Rock Ridge is an established neighborhood with a variety of housing options. It consists of both single-family homes and townhouses, providing residents with a range of choices. The community is known for its well-kept streets, community parks, and proximity to Saddle Rock Golf Course.
Centennial Airport
While not a residential neighborhood, Centennial Airport plays a significant role in Dove Valley. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in the United States. Situated to the north of Dove Valley, it attracts aviation enthusiasts and professionals from the area.
Parkborough
Located in the western part of Dove Valley, Parkborough is a neighborhood with a mix of housing options. It offers single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, catering to a diverse range of residents. The community features parks, walking trails, and a tranquil environment.
City Center of Dove Valley
Also referred to as Dove Valley's business district, the City Center is situated near the Denver Broncos' facility. It primarily consists of offices, commercial buildings, and retail establishments. The presence of major corporate offices and services makes it an important economic hub within the community.
These neighborhoods, along with several others, contribute to the diverse fabric of Dove Valley. From residential areas with different housing options to commercial districts and recreational spaces, Dove Valley offers a variety of options for residents and visitors.