Brighton is a city in Adams County located approximately 20 miles northeast of Denver. Founded in 1880 as Hughes Station, the community developed around a railroad depot and agricultural economy, later becoming a center for canning and sugar beet processing. Today, Brighton includes established residential neighborhoods, newer developments, commercial districts, parks, open spaces, and areas of surrounding farmland. The historic downtown district includes shops, restaurants, public art, and community spaces. Barr Lake State Park provides access to trails, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing, including habitat for bald eagles. Brighton also includes an expanding network of parks and recreational facilities. Housing ranges from single-family homes and townhomes to condominiums and apartments, with properties varying in age, size, architectural style, and amenities.