For Megan Richards, South Denver is more than just where she lives—it’s home. “I’ve lived in this area most of my life,” says Megan, a proud Colorado native who grew up in Aurora, went to high school in Greenwood Village, and now resides in Centennial with her husband Connor and their two adorable children, Henry and Norah.

“I graduated from Cherry Creek High School in 2010,” she shares. While she left Colorado briefly freshman year of college, she transferred to CU Boulder and graduated with a degree in Communication- the Centennial area has always had her heart. “It’s comfortable, safe, and clean. I also know how to get pretty much everywhere like the back of my hand.”

The Richards' story is woven into the very fabric of South Metro Denver. Megan met her husband, Connor, during a game of beer-in-hand kickball (yes, that’s exactly what it sounds like), and the rest was history. After living in Capitol Hill and even with her in-laws for a bit during COVID, they bought their current home sight unseen—falling in love with it the moment they stepped in during their inspection. “We’ve been here for five years now,” says Megan. “It was the best decision.”

Life with little ones—Henry, born in 2021, and Norah, just welcomed in 2024—is what Megan lovingly calls “organized chaos.” But the family calendar is full of joy. With nearby relatives and a strong network of close friends, there’s always something happening.

Their go-to spots? “We love Two Penguins Tap & Grill,” Megan shares. “It used to be a catering company that transitioned into a restaurant. It has a huge patio and a grassy area where the kids can play while we enjoy live music and French onion soup in the winter. The Brussels sprouts and sandwiches are fantastic too.”

Another favorite? Los Dos Potrillos, a local Mexican gem with a few locations around the state. “We always go to the original one. It’s always packed, which tells you how good it is. My husband and I always split the fajitas.”

Connor, a sales director for SBA Communications, and Henry are both big into golf. “We’re in the South Suburban Parks and Rec area,” Megan says. “We spend time at Lone Tree Golf Club and South Suburban Golf Course. The boys hit the driving range or play nine holes while Norah and I cheer them on. It’s a great setup for families.”

Their favorite park? Westlands Park—where the family recently took updated photos. “It has a splash pad in the summer and an awesome playground.” Mini golf is also big in the Richards household. “Henry is obsessed with putt-putt. We love Colorado Journey and the mini golf course at the South Suburban Family Sports Center.”

They’re also active at the South Suburban rec centers, making use of the pools, tennis courts, and Planet Fitness nearby. When it’s too hot or cold to play outside, Koelbel Library is a cozy escape. “It’s a beautiful public library with a great play area for kiddos and a little cafe! I will grab a coffee and let Henry and Norah play,” smiles Megan. 

South Denver offers the best of both worlds—peaceful suburban charm with easy access to everything. “We’re 15–20 minutes from everywhere,” Megan explains. “My mom lives in Parker, and we’re a short drive from Cherry Creek, Platte Park, and the light rail to downtown. It’s all so accessible.”

The Fiddler’s Green Amphitheatre is a local treasure just 3 miles away. “It’s stunning. You can bring a picnic blanket, spread out, and enjoy concerts in a relaxed setting, even larger than Red Rocks.”

Holiday traditions also add to the community feel. “We love the holiday parade at SouthGlenn in December and the pop-up bars and skating rink at Pindustry—it’s always festive and fun.”

Megan currently serves as the Development Director for The Rise School of Denver, a nonprofit preschool serving children of all abilities, ages 12 months to 5 years. “I used to teach there. Now I’m on the fundraising side, and Henry goes there too. Norah will start in August. It’s such a dream having the same schedule as the kids.”

As their family grows and thrives in South Denver, Megan reflects on why it continues to feel like home. “It’s where our life happens—where our kids play, where our friends live, where we go to concerts and grab coffee. It’s a community we’re deeply rooted in and one we’re excited to grow in together.”

From their cozy home in Centennial to their favorite local haunts, the Richards family is making the most of all that South Denver has to offer—and they’re loving every minute of it.