I’ve spent an inordinate amount of time in Denver this fall. I’m not complaining — I’m happy to descend from my little mountain town to the “big city” as often as possible. After all, Denver’s got loads of things to do whether you’re visiting for a family vacation, a girlfriend getaway (spas and shopping!), or a romantic escape.
Here’s a peek at my accommodations during my most recent Denver trips, all of which I’d recommend.
Hotel Teatro
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This upscale and sophisticated downtown property is a block from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, making it the ideal place to stay if you’re in town for one of the DCPA’s world-class musicals or plays. Costumes, sets, and posters from past performances line the walls at the Hotel Teatro, which is also home to two great restaurants: Kevin Taylor and Prima Ristorante (have a bite to eat before or after the show). Rooms are more than comfortable and the bathrooms especially sublime: Frette towels, rainforest showerhead, Aveda bath products.
Best for: Girlfriend getaways, romantic escapes.
Warwick Denver
Technically “uptown,” this property is still 5 blocks from the 16th Street Mall, a popular shopping and dining destination in downtown Denver. It’s the site of the former Denver Playboy Club (ooh, la la!) and was formerly comprised of luxury condominiums; the rooms have been renovated for hotel use, but retain much of that “condo space,” that guests can appreciate. The rooftop pool is a great place to relax in the summertime, and Randolph’s Restaurant and Bar has a super-popular happy hour and Sunday brunch.
Best for: Business travel, girlfriend getaways.
JW Marriott at Cherry Creek
This hotel in the Cherry Creek shopping district is especially welcoming to families, with child-sized robes, teddy bears, and a full library of kid-friendly DVDs, games, and books that children can use and enjoy during their stay. Then there’s a scavenger hunt that introduces families to the Cherry Creek North neighborhood. Book a special Family Package, and you also get milk and cookies at turndown and tickets to the Denver Zoo. Of course, it’s not only about kids, here. Grown-ups appreciate the fitness center, on-site spa and hip Second Home Kitchen + Bar with a fun outdoor fire pit and comfy lounge seating.
Best for: Families, girlfriend getaways.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver International Airport
Designed for extended stays, the studio, one- and two-bedroom suites here all have full kitchens (a boon for families who want to store and make meals to save money). There’s also a generous complimentary daily breakfast buffet served in a homey, kitchen-like setting; kids love making their own waffles, I appreciated the fluffy scrambled eggs. Monday through Thursday, there is a “Welcome Home Reception,” with complimentary munchies, which aren’t too shabby: meat lasagna, chicken fried steak, pork chops and grilled chicken are just a few of the evening offerings. Still more amenities: an indoor pool, small fitness center and small basketball court. I stayed here before an early morning flight out of Denver International Airport: pay just $10 (on top of the room rate) to park your car for up to 30 days and take a complimentary shuttle to the airport, 15 minutes away.
Best for: Business travelers, families.
