Highlands Ranch City Guide

Mostly standard American food with some international options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are available. Late-night food options are limited outside fast food.

Nightlife is low-key with mainly casual bars and restaurants. For more lively scenes, head into Denver.

Good mix of local and chain coffee shops. Some specialty coffee available, mostly basic American coffee culture.

Standard US tipping. 15%-20% in restaurants, taxis, and personal services. Optional for counter service.

You can get SIM cards from Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile stores and electronics retailers like Best Buy. eSIMs are available. No special ID needed for prepaid cards.

Streets are clean with regular waste and recycling services.

Some 24/7 convenience stores and pharmacies nearby, limited 24/7 clinics. Food options overnight mostly fast food.

Large supermarkets offer a good range of international products. Stores like King Soopers, Safeway, Sprouts, and Whole Foods operate long hours and are mostly open Sundays.

Credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted here, making cash optional for most purchases.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, grocery stores, and convenience shops. Out-of-network ATM fees may apply, usually $2-$5.

Highly-rated public schools in Douglas County and some private/charter options. Instruction is primarily in English.

No strong digital nomad scene in Highlands Ranch, but Denver nearby has more options. Plenty of cafes have Wi-Fi for working.

There are many parks and over 2600 acres of open space with trails. Great for outdoor activities and relaxing.

Over 70 miles of safe trails through parks and open spaces, perfect for running year-round.

Multiple gyms with workout rooms and sports courts; HRCA centers include pools and courts for various sports.

Tennis and pickleball courts at HRCA centers. Membership or reservations usually required.

No padel courts reported.

Several yoga studios offer various classes, often with drop-in and memberships.

Various dojos teach Taekwondo, Karate, BJJ, and other styles. English-speaking instructors and trial classes are common.

Nearby ski resorts like Breckenridge are about an hour's drive away. They have good snow and terrain for all skill levels.

Chatfield State Park offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing rentals during warm months.

No ocean surfing available.

No ocean diving; limited freshwater diving mainly for training.

High-quality healthcare with English-speaking staff is available at UCHealth Highlands Ranch Hospital and Children's Hospital Colorado. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are common.

Tap water is safe to drink.

Lots of parks, playgrounds, and recreation centers with pools and sports facilities. Kid-friendly cafes and easy access to baby supplies.

Generally accepting but more conservative than Denver, which offers more LGBTQ+ venues and events.

Very pet-friendly with many dog parks, trails, and services.