Littleton began as a small farming community, growing food for the rush of gold miners headed west during the Pikes Peak gold rush of 1859. A decade later, when the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad reached Littleton, rapid growth followed.
Rail transit has once again brought growth to this historic community. As a suburb of Denver, on the west side of I-25, Littleton is connected to the rest of the surrounding metro area by the light rail system, making it convenient to get anywhere while being removed from a busy pace. Residents have easy access to all that Downtown Denver has to offer, but Littleton has its own vibrant Downtown too—a walkable few blocks packed with great restaurants, retail and local businesses. The character of Historic Downtown Littleton shifts with the seasons, from a winter wonderland and a festival of lights to a summer café, market and festival venue.
The history of the area is still apparent and celebrated. The Littleton Historical Museum serves as a reminder by recreating life on an 1860s farm. Visitors can learn what it was like to go to class in the old schoolhouse, to churn the butter for their bread, make a quilt to keep them warm at night, or watch the village blacksmith at work.
Tree-lined streets, historic buildings and a thriving retail economy make the city of Littleton a suburb rich in character and appeal while still being current and convenient. And the surrounding area of unincorporated Jefferson County more colloquially called Littleton, makes it one of the largest suburbs as well. Just eight miles south of Denver, Littleton is a short drive or light rail journey to the city's hub. Residents also hike or bike the trails along the nearby Platte River. It all adds up to easy living in Littleton.