Why Thornton?

With room to grow, the City of Thornton is Colorado’s sixth largest city.

The city is only half built-out, offering plentiful opportunities for commercial development and easy access to I-25, I-70, E-470, Hwy 36, and Denver International Airport. Thornton is located just 8 miles north of downtown Denver and within an hour’s drive of all of the region’s major educational and research institutions.

Project Highlights for Key Focus Areas

Entertainment, Dining, & Shopping

Chicken N Pickle: A popular venue that combines dining and recreation, strengthening Thornton’s reputation for innovative entertainment options.

TopGolf: A cutting-edge entertainment venue that attracts golfers and social groups, bringing new energy and foot traffic to the area. Read more

K1 Speed: This indoor go-kart racing facility adds excitement to the city, drawing families and racing enthusiasts from around the region.

Snobahn: Year-round indoor skiing and snowboarding appeals to winter sports lovers, providing unique recreation regardless of season. Read more

Malibu Jack’s: A family-friendly entertainment center that enhances Thornton’s appeal as a destination for all ages.

The Picklr: The City embraces the pickleball trend with this exciting new facility, providing a vibrant community sports venue that encourages fitness and camaraderie

MusicboxTheater: The popular dinner theater from Johnstown is expanding with a new 900-seat theater and concert venue at the Larkridge Retail Center, offering more live entertainment options. Read more

Main Event: Experience bowling, arcade games, and a lively sports bar and grill at this dynamic entertainment venue in the Grove Shopping Center.

Denver Premium Outlets: This outdoor shopping mall features designer stores offering significant discounts, attracting both local shoppers and visitors, and solidifying Thornton’s status as a regional retail leader.

Cabela’s: This unique retailer catalyzed the area with a vast selection of outdoor gear, including hunting, fishing, and camping equipment drawing outdoor enthusiasts from hundreds of miles away.

Living Spaces: Their first Colorado store opened in Thornton with an expansive showroom which offers a wide selection of high-quality furniture and home décor, including a café and kids’ play area.

DICK’S House of Sport: Coming soon to Thornton, this expanded store features indoor climbing walls, batting cages, golf simulators, and outdoor turf fields, allowing customers test out equipment and apparel.

Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse: A fine dining establishment that brings upscale options to the area, attracting both locals and out-of-town guests.

Rosa’s Mexican Kitchen: A destination for authentic Mexican cuisine that supports local flavor diversity in the city’s restaurant landscape.

Cheddar’s: A casual dining option that enhances family-friendly, scratch-made food experiences in the community.

El Coco Pirata: This locally owned restaurant offers delicious Mexican food option in the South Thornton area. Read more

Billy Birch: Coming soon to Thornton, a unique beer garden experience featuring great brews, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere.

In-N-Out Burger: Known for its fresh ingredients and iconic burgers, In-N-Out brings its famous menu and vibrant atmosphere to the community.

Thornton’s I-25 corridor has transformed into a vibrant entertainment hub, attracting visitors and driving local tourism. The addition of major retailers has expanded the city’s shopping and dining options, drawing shoppers from across the region and bolstering the local economy. Together, these developments have solidified Thornton’s reputation as a destination for entertainment, dining, and shopping.

Manufacturing, Business Support, & Revitalization

25 Commerce Park Read more

25 North Business Park Read more

Innovate 25 Read more

North Washington Commerce Center Read more

Notable Employers: Companies like Frito Lay, Solid Power, Intrex Aerospace, Meati, Ace Thermal, and Amazon are now rooted in Thornton, supporting local employment, and bolstering the economy. Read more

Thornton Alliance Business Assistance Center: Established in 2020, the center provides critical resources that strengthen the local business community and foster growth. Read more

Business Grants: The city supports local businesses by offering grants designed to fuel growth, innovation, and community impact. Read more

Thornton Shopping Center Redevelopment: The city’s cleanup and reimagining efforts demonstrate a commitment to sustainable growth and community-focused spaces. Read more

South Thornton Revitalization: Plans to enhance the area show Thornton’s dedication to revitalizing neighborhoods and improving quality of life for residents. Read more

Thornton has transformed into a vibrant hub for industrial and manufacturing innovation. Strategic investments in revitalization, coupled with strong support for small businesses, drive growth and unlock new opportunities for development. These initiatives amplify Thornton’s reputation as a thriving, inclusive, and forward-thinking community, drawing residents, businesses, and visitors to share in its ongoing success.

More data & demographics

Business Resources

The city of Thornton partners with, and can recommend resource organizations from across the region to support existing, expanding and relocating businesses.

Find out more

Download Resources Guide PDF

Thornton City Process Guide

What will it take to get your business up and running in Thornton? Who should you contact first? Our City Process Guide will guide you every step of the way.

Real Estate Referrals & Coordination

Workforce Analysis & Support

Market Research & Business Climate Info

Our Office of Economic Development can provide expert services for your selection process, and continued support! We can provide Community Hosting Planning, Preparation and Coordination, Community Involvement, Educational Connections, as well as Announcement and Post-Care Work.