LIST: 7 historic hotels to visit in Colorado
Christian Murdock, The denver Gazette
Built between 1873 and 1918, these seven hotels in Colorado offer visitors a piece of history alongside modern amenities. Step back in time to the Old West in Durango, enjoy traditional afternoon tea in Denver and more.
Strater Hotel, Durango
Since 1887, the Strater has been a sight to behold on the outside with those red walls and white trim and on the inside with equally detailed wallpaper and woodwork. Adding to the allure is Diamond Belle Saloon, a step back in time to the wild west.
The Cliff House at Pikes Peak, Manitou Springs
The Cliff House at Pikes Peak in Manitou Springs. Photo from The Cliff House at Pikes Peak
The hotel was built in 1873, a few years before Colorado became a state. It has maintained its Victorian charm, including the rounded section that is the Katharine Lee Bates Room, fittingly facing the peak that inspired “America The Beautiful.”
The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs
Opened in 1918, The Broadmoor is one of Colorado’s historic, most impressive hotels. Photo courtesy The Broadmoor
The Cliff House is too easily forgotten in the shadow of this world-famous marvel, envisioned by mining tycoon Spencer Penrose. Opened in 1918, the towering resort includes a spa, championship golf courses and guided excursions into the surrounding wilds.
The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, Denver
This exterior shot of The Brown Palace shows its unique triangular shape, arched windows, and the red-sandstone-block architecture. Gazette file
This is the capital city’s grande dame, a historic landmark occupying a corner just a block from the tourist destination of 16th Street Mall. Afternoon tea is a tradition dating to 1892, when the hotel began hosting dignitaries.
The Stanley, Estes Park
Overlooking the town in its white, shimmering glory, the 113-year-old Stanley is known widely as the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining.” Lesser known is the hotel bar’s astounding assortment of whiskey.
Hotel Colorado, Glenwood Springs
Visitors walk through the courtyard into the lobby of the Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs. The historic hotel opened in 1893.
After a while in Hotel Colorado, you’ll notice the teddy bears. Then you might learn about the origin story claimed here. Teddy Roosevelt was one president to stay here, near the Colorado River and across from the big hot springs pool.
Hotel Jerome, Aspen
Hotel Jerome The J-Bar in Aspen’s Hotel Jerome. Courtesy photo
As silver was bringing Aspen to prominence in 1889, Hotel Jerome rose to represent the refined elegance that entrepreneur Jerome Wheeler foresaw of the town. The place would host miners, cowboys, 10th Mountain Division soldiers and local Hunter S. Thompson, who pitched anyone who would listen on his bid for sheriff.
Read more:
5 Colorado towns where history lives — and what to see and do while you’re there
From ghost towns to gold mines: Take a wild ‘Wild West’ road trip around Colorado
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