No visit to Colorado is complete without spending at least a few days exploring its vibrant capital city. With its historic buildings, vibrant art scene, and innovative bars, restaurants, and breweries, Denver has emerged as one of the coolest cities in the US.
This city is surprisingly dynamic and home to a buzzing downtown that boasts world-class museums, massive outdoor shopping centers, and trendy nightlife venues.
History buffs will love exploring the Lower Downtown (LoDo) neighborhood. The area is home to beautiful Victorian buildings, interesting museums, and the picturesque Larimer Square, the city’s oldest block! Locals flock to Larimer Square to sip wine at its trendy bistros, dine at its excellent eateries, and shop at its cute boutiques. You can also shop, wine, and dine at nearby Union Station or catch a Rockies game at the adjacent Coors Field.
If you’re looking for a culture fix, get a history lesson at the Molly Brown House Museum or peruse the themed exhibits and Native American art at the Denver Art Museum. If you really want to immerse yourself in Denver’s amazing art scene, head to the River North Art District (RiNo) where you’ll find colorful art galleries, industrial-chic boutique shops, and unique restaurants.
Denver also has some truly iconic historic hotels, creative “non-hotels,” and art-filled boutique hotels. So many, in fact, that you might have a hard time choosing the perfect one. So we’ve created a list of the 12 best hotels in Denver to help you plan your perfect getaway!
- Short on time and don’t want to read the whole article? Here are our top 3 picks!
Don’t forget to check out our web story: 12 Cool Boutique Hotels in Denver, Colorado
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Where to Stay in Denver
Most hotels in Denver are clustered around the Central Business District and LoDo. If you’re visiting the city for the first time or in town on business, these neighborhoods are the perfect place to base yourself. Most of the city’s main attractions are located within walking distance including Larimer Square, Union Station, and 16th Street Mall.
If shopping is your thing, look no further than Cherry Creek. Located 15 minutes east of downtown, this neighborhood is home to 16 blocks lined with boutiques and upscale shops. History buffs will definitely be drawn to one of the many historic hotels in LoDo – you can even stay in the historic Union Station!
Located 10-minutes north of downtown, RiNo is by far the coolest place to stay in Denver. This revamped industrial neighborhood is home to the city’s most cutting-edge restaurants, funky art galleries, and local microbreweries! No matter where you decide to base yourself, you’re sure to find an awesome boutique hotel in Denver.
The 12 Best Hotels in Denver, Colorado
1. The Ramble Hotel
If you want to stay in one of the coolest boutique hotels in Denver, The Ramble Hotel is the one! It’s located in the ultra-hip River North Art District and set in one of the area’s many revamped industrial buildings. Simply stroll around this up-and-coming neighborhood and you’ll stumble upon all sorts of buzzing jazz bars, art galleries, and brewpubs.
The concept behind The Ramble was to create a space reminiscent of 17th-century French salons, so expect to find plenty of places where you can mingle with fellow guests. With a small theater and music venue, the hotel hosts a variety of events celebrating the area’s artistic spirit.
You can choose from suites, guestrooms, or bunk rooms. Every room in the hotel boasts sophisticated decor, wide plank hickory flooring, and beautiful antique Persian rugs. Rooms also feature plush beds with pillowtop mattresses, double-wide walls, and thick windows to ensure a comfortable and quiet night’s sleep.
The hotel is also home to two of the area’s coolest bars and restaurants. You can dine on Pan-Latin fare at Super Mega Bien and sip a craft cocktail or two at the chic Death & Co Bar (the first branch outside of the original New York location!). Be sure to make reservations in advance because both of these spots are super popular with tourists and locals alike.
2. The Crawford Hotel at Union Station
Located inside Union Station, The Crawford Hotel is by far the most unique boutique hotel in Denver! Dating back to the early-1900s, the building was meticulously renovated to retain the historic train station’s original architecture. This luxury hotel opened its doors in 2014 and immediately became a local favorite.
Set in the trendy Lower Downtown neighborhood, Union Station also happens to be home to some of Denver’s best shops, bars, and restaurants. The Crawford is a great pick if you want to explore the shops and Victorian buildings along the historic Larimer Square or catch a Rockies game at Coors Field. Plus, it’s in a train station which means getting around is a cinch!
Because of the building’s unique architecture, each room is completely different. The truly lavish rooms boast a variety of features from clawfoot tubs to original artwork and in-room bars. The themed Pullman rooms pay homage to 1900s train travel, while the rustic loft rooms blend original architecture with luxurious trimmings.
Overlooking the grand Central Hall of Union Station, the chic Cooper Lounge is the perfect place to grab a drink and take in the hustle and bustle of the station. Head downstairs where you can dine on fresh seafood at Stoic & Genuine, snack on shared plates and tapas at Ultreia, or shop for artisanal goods at the European-style street market Mercantile Dining & Provisions.
3. Hotel Teatro
Housed in a 1911 redbrick Renaissance Revival building, Hotel Teatro touts itself as Denver’s original boutique hotel. As the name implies, Hotel Teatro is located in the Theater District and is a stone’s throw from LoDo, Union Station, and Larimer Square. But with so many cool amenities, you might never want to leave this architectural gem!
Rooms and suites all feature plush beds with pillowtop mattresses and stylish tufted headboards, custom oak wardrobes, and spacious workstations. You can brew your morning cup of joe with the Keurig coffee maker, slip on the terry robe and have a relaxing movie night with the 50-inch smart TV, and enjoy sweeping views of downtown Denver and the Rocky Mountains from bed. The rooms are also pet-friendly if you want to bring your furry friend along!
Head into The Study where you can pick out a book from the floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, sip barrel-aged cocktails, a get cozy next to the fireplace. Be sure to enjoy at least one farm-to-table dinner at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, The Nickel. There’s a reason it was recently named as the Best Hotel Restaurant in Colorado!
4. Halcyon
Halcyon is like no hotel you’ve ever stayed at before – and we mean that in the best of ways. With its thoughtful and somewhat offbeat amenities, this self-proclaimed “non-hotel” stands out as one of the best boutique hotels in Denver. You’ll love the blissfully unconventional check-in process at the Kitchen Counter, where you can enjoy complimentary lattes, wine, fruit, and pastries all day long!
This luxury hotel is located just outside of downtown Denver in the Cherry Creek Shopping District. The area’s 16 blocks are dotted with boutique shops, entertainment venues, and excellent eateries. If you feel like exploring the area, head into the hotel’s Gear Garage where you can borrow outdoor equipment, Piaggio scooters, New Belgium bikes, skateboards, and even GoPros.
The modern rooms are impeccably designed to give guests all the creature comforts of home with a luxurious twist. You love all of the cool features including Nespresso coffeemakers, Jonathan Adler bath products, and even record players. Upgraded suites boast private terraces, spacious living rooms, and in-room Peloton bikes.
But the best thing about this hotel is the rooftop deck where you can sip sunset drinks, soak up the Colorado sun in the pool, relax in a private cabana, or stargaze in the hot tub.
5. Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver
If you’re traveling to Denver on business, look no further than the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver. Not only is it located right in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of the Colorado Convention Center, but it has everything you need to mix business with pleasure.
The guestrooms and suites have all been recently renovated so you can expect modern decor and thoughtful extras throughout. Stylish rooms feature funky floral wallpaper, plush beds with Italian linens and leather headboards, and original art by local artists. You’ll appreciate the iPod docking station, gourmet honor minibar, oversized workstation, and free lightning-fast wifi.
After a long day on the town, unwind at the Evening Reception and enjoy complimentary wine, Italian bites, and chair massages. If you really want to relax, book an in-room massage at the spa. There’s also a 24-hour fitness center so you can keep up with your exercise routine.
For dinner, head down to the hotel’s award-winning restaurant and bar, Panzano Italian. The menu features Northern Italian fare made from locally sourced organic ingredients. Or, if you feel like staying in, you can order Panzano’s pasta, pizza, and wine to your room 24 hours a day!
6. The Maven at Dairy Block
The Maven is a hip boutique hotel that’s located in one of the coolest areas of LoDo. The Dairy Block is a bustling micro-district that was once home to Windsor Dairy. You’ll find dozens of trendy boutiques, eateries, bars, and even a high-end co-working space in this unique area of town.
This place is all about celebrating the neighborhood’s artistic culture. You’ll find over 700 works of art from Colorado-based artists scattered around this vibrant hotel!
The loft-style rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, abstract art, and smart TVs. You love the pour-over coffee station and luxury bath products. Upgrade to a larger room or suite and you’ll be rewarded with cool features from hand-painted murals to balconies and lavish soaking tubs.
While you should definitely sample the area’s excellent bars and restaurants, you also have some excellent options at the hotel. You can sip gourmet coffee at Huckleberry, brunch on creative Southwestern-style dishes at Kachina Cantina, or imbibe with a craft cocktail or draft beer at Poka Lola Social Club. If you want to get out and explore, the hotel offers a free shuttle that will take you to some of the top attractions in the area.
7. The Art Hotel
If you’re an art enthusiast, The Art Hotel is hands down the best boutique hotel in Denver. This architectural marvel is perfectly positioned in the Arts District, near the Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum, and a variety of galleries. Filled with countless pieces of art, you’ll feel like you’re living in a museum!
If you’re not impressed by the funky reflective exterior, step inside and you’ll be in awe of the 22,000-piece light installation and works by acclaimed artists like Ed Ruscha, Kiki Smith, and Sol LeWitt. You can even get free tours every Saturday so you can learn more about their amazing art collection.
As you would expect, each room is filled with plenty of art, boldly colored retro decor, and extras like coffeemakers, microwaves, and mini-fridges. The luxury bathrooms boast Italian marble trimmings and luxurious rain showers.
Head up to the rooftop terrace where you can wine and dine at FIRE Restaurant and Terrace and take in sweeping views of downtown and the Rocky Mountains. You’ll love the themed drink menu that features cocktails named after artists. If mezcal is your thing, try the Frida Kahlo!
8. Le Méridien Denver Downtown
Located in the heart of town, Le Méridien is yet another great option for art lovers. One of the many unique aspects of this boutique hotel is that it is part of the Unlock Art program. Just present your room key to participating local establishments – including the Clyfford Still Museum – and you’ll get all sorts of awesome freebies.
You’ll be just steps away from all the boutiques, bistros, and cafes of the tree-lined 16th Street Mall and all of the galleries in the Art District are nearby. The Colorado Convention Center, the Denver Performing Arts Complex, and Larimer Square are also a short stroll away from this boutique hotel.
You’ll love the sleek rooms featuring floor-to-ceiling windows with city or mountain views, plush beds, funky mid-century modern furniture, and luxe marble baths with Malin+Goetz bath products. The oversized 55-inch flat-screens and in-room Illy espresso machines are also nice touches.
Le Méridien is a local favorite because it is home to 54Thirty, the highest open-air bar in Denver. Head up to the 20th floor for sunset drinks and amazing city views. If you’re craving some American comfort food, Corinne Restaurant is a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
9. MOXY Denver Cherry Creek
The shopping mecca of Cherry Creek is brimming with unique boutique hotels and the MOXY is one of the best. You’ll be in instant vacation mode the moment you check-in at the hotel’s ultra-cool bar, where you’ll be offered a complimentary boozy beverage. This place is definitely geared towards younger, more budget-minded travelers so it’s the perfect pick for digital nomads, a fun business trip, or a girls’ getaway!
Rooms are outfitted with modern furniture, smart TVs, comfy seating areas, and unique artwork. But this hotel is all about its communal spaces. You can play games in the living room, snap a selfie in the stylish elevator, or gather around the three-level outdoor fire pit with your family and friends. There are also fun workspaces with ping-pong tables where you can meet up with your co-workers for work or play.
The hotel also features a boho-chic alfresco beer garden that serves up craft brews and grilled bites and is decked out with plenty of pillows and throw blankets. Head to the chic bar for after-dinner drinks and then party the night away with a cocktail in hand!
10. The Oxford Hotel
The iconic Oxford Hotel opened its doors way back in 1891, making it the oldest hotel in Denver. The hotel is housed in a beautiful redbrick building and is registered on the National Register of Historic Places. Book a night in this unique hotel and you’ll literally be staying in a piece of history!
The Oxford is located right in the heart of LoDo and just steps away from the famous Union Station. The hotel is a historical landmark but the entire building is outfitted with luxurious modern amenities while still retaining its historical charm. Plus, the customer service is second to none so expect to be treated like royalty.
Rooms offer the perfect blend of old and new. You’ll find antique beds, ornate writing desks, and original artwork accented by modern amenities from HD TVs to Bose Wave radios. If you’re traveling on business or as a family, the elegant suites are well worth the upgrade.
LoDo is chock full of chic bars and swanky cocktail lounges, but no visit to The Oxford is complete without sipping a classic martini at the hotel bar. The Cruise Room has a storied history as an actual illegal speakeasy that was operated during Prohibition. It’s definitely the coolest and most unique cocktail lounge in the city!
11. The Jacquard Hotel
The Jacquard is yet another gem in the Cherry Creek shopping district. With so many amazing amenities, it’s a great pick for a family vacation or a romantic weekend away!
One of the standout features of this luxurious hotel is the rooftop terrace. You can splash around in the 75-foot pool, sip sunset drinks at the rooftop bar, or lounge around and take in the 180-views of the Rocky Mountains.
You’ll love relaxing in the deluxe rooms, which boast floor-to-ceiling windows, plush beds with luxury linens, and marble baths with custom body products. The suites offer pampering extras such as separate living and dining rooms and personal Peloton bikes upon request!
The Cherry Creek neighborhood has over 50 bars and restaurants but the Jacquard is home to one of the best. Start your dinner with a bottle of fine wine from Narrative’s impressive wine cellar – they have over 750 bottles! The menu features innovative American dishes such as avocado and cheddar Impossible Burgers for vegetarians and Korean-style short ribs for carnivores.
12. The Source Hotel
Located in the heart of the trendy River North Arts District, The Source Hotel is by far one of the coolest hotels in Denver. Housed in an iconic 1880s ironworks building, this unique hotel features an onsite brewery, taqueria, bakery, coffee roaster, cheese shop, bottle shop, design store, and more!
You’ll immediately get into the spirit of this unique hotel experience during check-in, where you’ll be served samples of New Belgium beer. You can literally watch the beer being brewed in the lobby’s brewery!
The hotel’s design embraces its history with a hip industrial-chic aesthetic. The luxury rooms boast a mix of Japanese and Scandinavian design with polished concrete floors, Baltic birch furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling glass garage doors offering incredible views of the Rocky Mountains.
Head up to the rooftop deck where you can cool off in the plunge pool or unwind in the hot tub. The rooftop also features The Woods restaurant, which serves up craft cocktails, New Belgium brews, excellent wood-fired pizzas, and creative shared plates. If you feel like staying in, you can get cozy in your bathrobe and order food and drinks to your room!
That’s it – 12 of the best boutique hotels in Denver! Did we miss any cool Denver hotels? Comment below so we can add them to the list!
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Frequently Asked Questions
If you want to stay in one of the coolest boutique hotels in Denver, The Ramble is the one! It’s located in the ultra-hip River North Art District and set in one of the area’s many revamped industrial buildings. Simply stroll around this up-and-coming neighborhood and you’ll stumble upon all sorts of buzzing jazz bars, art galleries, and brewpubs.
Housed in a 1911 redbrick Renaissance Revival building, Hotel Teatro touts itself as Denver’s original boutique hotel. Be sure to enjoy at least one farm-to-table dinner at the hotel’s award-winning restaurant, The Nickel. There’s a reason it was recently named as the Best Hotel Restaurant in Colorado!
If you’re traveling to Denver on business, look no further than the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver. Not only is it located right in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of the Colorado Convention Center, but it has everything you need to mix business with pleasure.
If you’re an art enthusiast, The Art Hotel is hands down the best boutique hotel in Denver. This architectural marvel is perfectly positioned in the Arts District, near the Denver Art Museum, the Clyfford Still Museum, and a variety of galleries. Filled with countless pieces of art, you’ll feel like you’re living in a museum!
The iconic Oxford Hotel opened its doors way back in 1891, making it the oldest hotel in Denver. The hotel is housed in a beautiful redbrick building and is registered on the National Register of Historic Places. Book a night in this unique hotel and you’ll literally be staying in a piece of history!
