Sheridan, CO

County: Arapahoe

History

Sheridan, Colorado

Sheridan, Colorado is a small city located in Arapahoe County, just southwest of Denver. The area that is now Sheridan was originally inhabited by the Cheyenne and Arapaho Native American tribes before European settlers arrived.

The city was founded in 1880 as a community for railroad workers. It was named after General Philip Sheridan, a Union Army officer during the American Civil War. The original town was built around the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe Railroad depot.

Sheridan experienced rapid growth during the early 20th century, with a surge in population due to the expansion of the railroad and the influx of workers to nearby Denver. The city also benefited from its proximity to the South Platte River, which provided water for farming and irrigation.

In the mid-20th century, Sheridan faced challenges as the decline of the railroad industry and the growth of suburban areas led to a decline in population. However, the city adapted and focused on its strengths, particularly its location near Denver. It has since become a primarily residential area with a growing economy.

Today, Sheridan is a diverse community with a population of approximately 6,000 residents. The city has undergone revitalization efforts in recent years, including the creation of a downtown area with shops, restaurants, and community spaces. Sheridan is also known for its strong community spirit and active local government.

Despite its small size, Sheridan continues to evolve and thrive, providing its residents with a close-knit community feel while being conveniently located near the amenities of the Denver metropolitan area.

Attractions

Downtown Denver

Downtown Denver

Just a short drive away, downtown Denver offers a wide range of attractions, including shopping, dining, live music venues, museums, and sports arenas.

Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Located in nearby Morrison, CO, Red Rocks is a stunning outdoor amphitheater set against the backdrop of breathtaking natural rock formations. It hosts many concerts and events throughout the year.

Denver Botanic Gardens

Spread across 24 acres, the Denver Botanic Gardens feature a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden, South African Plaza, and a tropical conservatory. It's a peaceful place to explore and enjoy beautiful plant collections.

Colorado Railroad Museum

Located in Golden, CO, this museum showcases the history of railroads in the state and houses an extensive collection of historic trains and artifacts.

Denver Art Museum

Known for its extensive collection of American Indian, Native American, and contemporary art, the Denver Art Museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and programs.

Mount Evans Scenic Byway

This scenic drive takes you up to the summit of Mount Evans, one of Colorado's fourteeners (mountains above 14,000 feet). The views from the top are stunning, and you may even spot some wildlife along the way.

Coors Brewery Tour

Located in Golden, CO, the Coors Brewery offers free tours that take you through the brewing process and offer samples of their famous beer.

Cherry Creek State Park

This state park offers opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and camping, as well as picnic areas and a large reservoir for water activities.

These are just a few of the attractions near Sheridan, CO. The Denver metropolitan area offers a wide range of cultural, outdoor, and entertainment options for residents and visitors to enjoy.

Climate

Sheridan, CO, located in Arapahoe County, has a semi-arid climate. Here are some key features of the climate in Sheridan:

Temperature

The temperature in Sheridan can vary significantly throughout the year. Summers are generally hot, with average temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s°F (around 29-33°C). Winters are cold, with average temperatures in the mid-30s to low 40s°F (around 1-5°C). However, temperatures can drop below freezing, especially at night.

Precipitation

Sheridan experiences relatively low precipitation, with most of it occurring during the winter and spring months. Annual rainfall averages around 16 inches (41 cm). Snowfall is common during winter, with an average of about 50 inches (127 cm) each year. Spring is the wettest season, while summers are generally dry.

Sunshine

Sheridan enjoys a good amount of sunshine throughout the year, with more than 300 sunny days on average. Summers tend to be sunnier than winters, and the area experiences longer daylight hours during the summer months.

Wind

The region can be quite windy at times, particularly during the spring months. Wind speeds can vary but are generally moderate, with occasional gusts.

Elevation

Sheridan sits at an elevation of about 5,400 feet (1,646 meters). The higher elevation can result in cooler temperatures compared to nearby lower-lying areas.

It's important to note that weather patterns can vary from year to year, and extreme weather events like heatwaves or intense snowstorms can occur occasionally. It's always good to check the local weather forecast for accurate and up-to-date information.

Neighborhoods

Sheridan, Colorado is a small city located in Arapahoe County, just south of Denver. While the city itself is only about 2.3 square miles, it is divided into several distinct neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and amenities. Here are some of the different neighborhoods of Sheridan:

Central Sheridan

This is the heart of the city, home to the city hall, fire department, and community center. It also includes Sheridan High School and several parks, making it a hub of activity and community events.

Fort Logan

Located in the northern part of Sheridan, Fort Logan is known for its namesake military installation, Fort Logan National Cemetery. It's a quiet neighborhood with mostly residential areas and is adjacent to Denver's Harvey Park.

Grant Ranch

Situated in the southwest corner of Sheridan, Grant Ranch is a suburban neighborhood featuring single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. It is known for its picturesque Grant Lake, which offers recreational activities like fishing and boating.

Sheridan Green

Located in the northwest corner of Sheridan, Sheridan Green is a residential neighborhood with a mix of single-family homes and apartments. It features several parks and open spaces, including Sherwood Park and Alice Terry Elementary School Park.

Bear Valley

While technically not part of Sheridan, Bear Valley is an adjacent neighborhood worth mentioning. It is a larger residential area with a variety of housing options, including single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. The neighborhood is known for its abundant green spaces, recreation areas, and Bear Creek Lake Park.

Overall, the neighborhoods of Sheridan offer a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, making it a diverse and vibrant community with something to offer for everyone. Whether you prefer a quiet suburban setting or a more centrally located area, Sheridan has a neighborhood to suit your needs.

Nearby Cities