As a group of six people aboard Segways roll down the sidewalk in LoDo, it’s apparent the streets of Denver are not occupied by residents and downtown workers alone. The headlines don’t lie — tourism is alive and well.
“Colorado Tourism Sets Record ..”
“Summertime Visitors up 11 Percent”
When you are living in the seventh fastest growing city in the nation, according to Headlight Data, it’s easy to forget about the impact vacationers and conventioneers have on the economy. To borrow a popular meme, it’s HUGE!
Visit Denver reported in June that 16.4 million tourists spent $5 billion in the city in 2015 and that Denver ranks as Colorado’s top visitor destination. These numbers reflect a six percent increase from 2014. Furthermore, Denver hotels dumped $9.8 million into the city’s tax coffers in June 2016, a new record according to Visit Denver. The increase was attributed to a surge in meetings, conventions and special events.
Whether it’s local attractions, day trips, a vibrant music scene and nightlife, or the arts/cultural venues, tourists have embraced Denver and all it has to offer. The city is now 12th on the list of Cvent Inc.’s top 50 meeting destinations in the United States. With 102 meeting hotels and 20,647 sleeping rooms, there is plenty of space to accommodate visitors year round.
In addition to the large hotel chains, Denver has an eclectic mix of bed and breakfast and historic sites sure to make the stay memorable. And for that reason, we have zeroed in on the top five Denver boutique hotels in which to stay while in the Mile High City. Even if you call Denver home, a weekend escape to these inns may be just what you need to refresh the soul.
Oxford Hotel (1600 17th Street)
Opened in 1891, this vintage hotel is steeped in history and Victorian charm. Offering elegant rooms outfitted with antique furniture, the Oxford transports its guests back in time when Denver was establishing itself as a center of commerce. The original hotel included a barbershop, library, pharmacy, Western Union office, stables, dining room and saloon. Nowadays, the Oxford is still in the heart of Denver’s action with Union Station steps away from the entrance and Coors Field an eight-minute walk down Wazee Street.
Hotel Teatro (1100 14th Street)
Housed in a building constructed in 1911, Hotel Teatro enjoys a prime location just a few blocks away from the Theater District and the Colorado Convention Center. Guests gush over the 12 foot ceilings, comfortable decor and its dog friendly policy (large or small dogs welcome at no extra charge). There is a wide range of rooms and suites available, all tastefully decorated with modern conveniences. The NIckel Restaurant is on site, serving up breakfast, lunch and dinner with a distinctive Colorado flair.
Brown Palace (321 17th Street)
There is good reason “venerable” is consistently used to describe the Brown Palace. Since 1892, it has defined opulence, luxury, fastidiousness and enduring appeal. How many hotels offer a historical tour of its grounds? Built by Henry Brown and designed by famed architect Frank Edbrooke, the Brown Palace was designed in the Italian Renaissance style using sandstone and red granite. From a queen bedroom to a grand suite, there is a room to fit your style. Dining options include the classic high tea in the elegant lobby of the Brown, Ellyngton’s, the Ship Tavern or the Palace Arms, considered the “crown jewel” of the Brown.
Magnolia Hotel Denver (818 17th Street)
Located in the heart of the business district, the Magnolia Hotel Denver embodies the old and new by featuring sleek contemporary quarters in a refurbished 1910 building. Opened in 1995, this hotel is the perfect base for walking to Union Station, Coors Field, the 16th Street Mall and other downtown attractions. The Magnolia offers a complimentary breakfast buffet, and a gratis evening wine and beer reception. Harry’s Bar and Grill unites both locals and hotel guests with a great happy hour and off beat decor.
Hotel Monaco (1717 Champa Street)
Be ready to enjoy a feast for your eyes upon entering the dazzling lobby at the Hotel Monaco. Long on a color palette, especially turquoise, orange and animal prints, Hotel Monaco prides itself on its decor, service, location and amenities. From the retro headboards to the yoga mats in each room, you’re sure to remember your stay. Guests enjoy the use of complimentary bicycles to explore downtown and can relax afterwards in the Veda Salon and Spa. Cap off the day with dinner in the award-winning Panzano restaurant, serving up some of the best Italian food in the city.
