Boulderado Hotel: A Charming Stay in Boulder, Colorado

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With Victorian-era architecture, proximity to local attractions, and a commitment to service, sustainability, and community, the Boulderado Hotel in Boulder offers a quintessential Boulder experience.

Nestled in downtown Boulder, Colorado, against the picturesque Rocky Mountains backdrop, the Hotel Boulderado stands as a historic gem. With its elegant architecture, timeless charm, and upscale accommodations, this iconic hotel is not just a place to stay but a living piece of Boulder’s rich history.

A symbol of the enduring spirit of the American West, Hotel Boulderado’s storied past and enduring beauty continues to draw visitors from near and far, making it a beloved destination for travelers across the United States and the globe.

TL;DR

  • The Hotel Boulderado, located at 2115 13th Street, features stunning Victorian architecture and luxury accommodations in downtown Boulder.
  • Its central location provides easy access to Pearl Street, the University of Colorado campus, and the scenic Flatirons.
  • As the longest-operating hotel in Colorado, it hosts weddings, meetings, and cultural events that engage with the local community.
  • Unique holiday packages, pet-friendly policies, and partnerships with local businesses allow guests to fully immerse themselves in Boulder's culture.

An Architectural Marvel

The Historic Hotel Boulderado’s distinct Victorian red sandstone exterior, constructed in 1909, makes it one of Boulder’s most historic hotels and recognizable structures. Inside, the lobby showcases stained glass ceilings, oak pillars, and an original cage elevator, offering guests a step back in time.

William Redding, in collaboration with the Boulder Improvement Company, championed the ambitious project of establishing an upscale hotel in the heart of downtown Boulder during the late 1800s. Their goal was to construct a lavish hotel to accommodate the increasing influx of travelers and guests to the region, offering high-end lodging options for both residents and visitors.

As Boulder’s only remaining grand 19th-century hotel, the Boulderado stands as a major Boulder landmark and one of Colorado’s most significant architectural achievements with the benefits of modern amenities. Its long-standing presence in the downtown area contributes to Boulder’s charm and historic appeal. The hotel holds its own among other local landmarks like the Glen Huntington Bandshell and the Dushanbe Teahouse.

Catering to Event Hosting Needs

With over 35,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, the Boulderado has hosted everything from intimate weddings to large conferences.

The hotel offers several historic venues, like the glittering Gold Room with exposed brick walls and crystal chandeliers. Modern amenities include built-in audio-visual technology and catering services that source local, seasonal ingredients.

For event planning, Boulderado’s dedicated conference services guarantee professional support for business meetings. Discounted room blocks, parking validations, an excellent event center, and custom welcome gifts create memorable stays for wedding parties and event attendees.

Hotel Boulderado boasts a variety of event spaces tailor-made for receptions of different sizes. Both the banquet capacity and reception capacity hinge on the chosen event space, alongside the setup and arrangement selected for the occasion.

Curating Unique Lodging Experiences

Guests can choose from a selection of rooms and suites, many offering downtown views, balconies, fireplaces, and Victorian-inspired decor. With an eclectic mix of antique charm and contemporary comforts, the Boulderado creates an authentic Boulder ambiance visitors won’t find elsewhere.

Special holiday and romance packages add extra indulgence with features like sparkling wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, and late checkout. The University of Colorado campus sits a few walkable blocks away. Guests can take in stunning views of the Flatirons from the front entrance, the Boulderado Carriage House, and the on-site restaurant, License No. 1.

With so many shops, restaurants, galleries, and attractions surrounding the grounds, travelers have endless options to eat, explore, and immerse themselves in local culture—all without needing a car. The hotel also loans bicycles and offers guided history tours on foot.

Committed to Sustainability

From solar panels to water conservation efforts, the Boulderado integrates eco-conscious practices throughout its operations. The hotel sources food from local purveyors, avoids single-use plastics, and has adopted waste diversion policies.

As a certified member of the Green Hotels Association, the Boulderado demonstrates environmental stewardship unmatched by other hotels in the downtown vicinity. Its pet-friendly policies also make it a welcoming retreat for guests with animals.

Engaging With Community

Beyond drawing visitors, the Boulderado also serves as a venue for public events like summer concert series, holiday festivities, craft fairs, and more.

Strategic partnerships with community organizations, from the Downtown Boulder Business Improvement District to the Boulder Convention and Visitors Bureau, further align the hotel with the city’s culture.

Here are a few historic places and local attractions you may wish to visit during your stay at the Boulderado Hotel in Boulder:

  • Pearl Street Mall
  • The Corner Bar
  • Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Downtown Boulder
  • Boulderado Carriage House
  • Boulder Theater

With deep roots in Boulder history, an enduring commitment to service, and a recent $18 million renovation preserving its 19th century spirit, the Boulderado Hotel continues to evolve while remaining the cultural pillar it has been for over 100 years.

FAQ

What types of rooms are available at the Boulderado Hotel?

The Boulderado offers a variety of historic rooms and luxury suites. Guests can choose from traditional rooms, cabins, bi-level suites, parlor suites with clawfoot tubs, and more. Many rooms provide scenic views of downtown Boulder and the Flatirons.

What amenities and services does the Boulderado Hotel offer?

Signature amenities include the on-site restaurant License No. 1, the lobby Living Room lounge, room service, valet parking, airport shuttle service, fitness and business centers, free Wi-Fi, bike rentals, and pet-friendly accommodations.

How can I learn more about the history of the Boulderado Hotel?

Guests can book a guided tour of the hotel through the front desk, with insights into architecture, stories from past guests, and hidden secrets. Historical information is also displayed throughout the lobby and rooms via antique photos, newspapers, and artifacts.

What is the best way to experience downtown Boulder from the Boulderado Hotel?

With a perfect downtown location, the best way to experience Boulder is simply to step outside the hotel doors. Guests can shop and dine on Pearl Street, walk or bike the creek path, tour local breweries, visit the CU campus, or attend a cultural event—all within walking distance.

About the author

Ready Colorado Staff

The team at ReadyColorado.com is comprised of seasoned explorers, cultural aficionados, and local experts, committed to providing you with the most accurate, extensive content on Colorado's vast offerings. From the latest updates on outdoor activities to deep dives into the state's rich history and lifestyle, our dedication to detail and quality ensures that ReadyColorado.com stands as your trusted, authoritative guide to embracing the Colorado experience.