The crown jewel accommodation in Glenwood Springs is the magnificent Hotel Colorado, a 130-year-old Victorian-era lodging that offers guests a portal into the region’s storied past along with modern luxuries and amenities.
In This Article
This article delves into everything that makes the Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs a premier vacation destination, from its relaxing mineral hot springs to its pet-friendly policies and family-friendly amenities. We’ll explore the hotel’s illustrious history, highlight popular seasonal activities like skiing and hiking, showcase romantic getaway packages, discuss special event hosting capabilities, and more.
TL;DR
- The Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs transports guests back in time with Victorian architecture while providing modern services.
- Natural hot mineral springs onsite enhance relaxation and wellness offerings.
- Family-friendly amenities like kids' programs and suites cater to vacationing clans.
- Romantic packages and fine dining create ideal couples' retreats.
- Beautiful event venues and stellar planning services host weddings and events.
- Eco-friendly practices and community initiatives uphold sustainability.
Destination Overview
The Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs stands out for its ability to fuse historical charm with contemporary comforts. Built in 1893 overlooking the scenic confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers, the hotel blends distinctive Victorian architecture like stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and period furnishings with recently upgraded amenities.
Guests delight in attractions like the largest mineral hot springs pool in the Rockies, complete with water slides, as well as onsite dining options spanning casual cafes to gourmet restaurants. Nearby recreational activities, from skiing to hiking, beckon adventure travelers, while the walkable downtown location places shops and entertainment within easy reach.
Cultural highlights such as behind-the-scenes tours and murder mystery dinners connect to the hotel’s storied past, allowing guests to immerse themselves in living history. Whether travelers crave relaxation, recreation, or old-world nostalgia, the Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs has them covered.
Local Experiences and Culture
Beyond its lodging, spa, and dining, the Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs facilitates deep connections with authentic local culture. Guests can take a foodie tour led by expert guides to discover the city’s tastiest eateries, from family-run diners to farm-to-table bistros.
The hotel also partners with community artists and craftspeople to display local paintings, pottery, jewelry, and textiles onsite. Special events like monthly art walks and summer concert series in the courtyard showcase more homegrown talent.
Visitors wishing to venture off-property can ride the Glenwood Springs Trolley to explore downtown and neighboring communities replete with breweries, candy stores, and outfitters. These excursions into local life enrich any Glenwood Springs getaway.
Historic Significance
One of the town’s most enduring landmarks is the historic Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs, which brims with stories and lore. It is rumored to be a hub for hauntings and paranormal activity.
The architect, W.S. Strang, designed the five-story, red sandstone building in the iconic Victorian style as an homage to the area’s early hotel boom. When it opened on New Year’s Eve 1893, this historic hotel featured wondrous amenities like steam heat, electric lights, and telephones.
Hollywood celebrities like Tom Mix and Teddy Roosevelt frequented the hotel during its glamorous heyday. The storied establishment even survived a devastating fire in 1945 which led to renovations like a rooftop garden lounge. Historical tours of the property offer glimpses into the past through artifacts and photography.
Recent preservation efforts, including plumbing upgrades and restoring the lobby’s rare Brazilian rose onyx, maintain the historic hotel’s old-world grandeur for modern guests. These continual revitalization projects ensure that the Hotel Colorado remains a beloved emblem of Glenwood Springs’ cultural heritage.
Family and Recreational Offerings
In addition to its mineral springs pool complex, this Colorado hotel caters to families via special kids’ suites filled with games and activities. The hotel also provides childcare services and supervised programs so parents can enjoy date nights. Family-focused recreational amenities include bike rentals for cruising the scenic Rio Grande Trail, cinema nights under the stars in the courtyard, and evening s’mores roasts and campfire singalongs.
For outdoor adventure, the hotel’s central location allows easy access to white water rafting along Shoshone Rapids and hiking through stunning Hanging Lake. In winter, a shuttle whisks skiers to Sunlight Mountain Resort’s slopes. The hotel also offers special family packages bundling accommodations with discounted tickets to area attractions like Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Wellness and Spa Services
The pièce de resistance at the Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs is guests’ unlimited access to the property’s hot springs pool. The mineral-rich waters have drawn wellness seekers since the 1800s for their therapeutic benefits. Additional spa services range from massage and body treatments to facials, manicures, and hair salon offerings.
For further relaxation, adults can unwind in the Spa of the Rockies featuring a eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, and tranquility pool. Those seeking specialized wellness experiences can consult with nutritionists and partake in customized yoga and meditation sessions. The hotel also provides exercise equipment for working out and staying active. These exceptional amenities make this Colorado hotel a sanctuary of health and rejuvenation.
Seasonal Activities and Accommodations
One advantage of the Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs is enjoying different seasonal recreation and promotions. Come winter, the hotel offers ski-in/ski-out access when staying in its newly renovated Lodge Wing. The property also runs regular shuttles to and from Sunlight Mountain Resort, along with equipment rentals and ski valet services.
Spring visitors can embark on ranger-led hikes through colorful wildflower blooms, while summer guests often base themselves at the hotel for paddling trips along the Colorado River. Fall brings harvest festivals, corn mazes, and turning aspens. Seasonal packages add value through perks like discounted tickets, meal vouchers, and late checkouts. With its flexible amenities, the Hotel Colorado delivers year-round.
Romantic Getaways and Special Occasions
From popping the question to celebrating anniversaries, the Hotel Colorado sets an intimate mood with romantic retreat packages, including sparkling wine, rose petal turndown service, and couples’ massages. For epic proposals, staff can coordinate choreographed dances, flower-filled rooms, or even fireworks displays.
Wedding parties can exchange vows in the picturesque Courtyard Garden event venue or grand Crystal Ballroom. Expert planners assist with details like menus, music, and decor. The hotel provides honeymooners and other couples with specialized services like in-room dining, limo airport transfers, and customized day trips to regional wineries and hot springs. These exceptional offerings make this Colorado hotel a top choice for affairs of the heart.
Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement
Alongside modernizing, the Hotel Colorado Glenwood Springs takes care to reduce its environmental impact through eco-conscious policies. Initiatives include a recycling program, low-flow plumbing fixtures, energy-efficient LED lighting, and partnerships with regional farms to source ingredients sustainably.
Additionally, the hotel supports local non-profits via donations, volunteer days, and hosting fundraisers in its event spaces. Ongoing community engagement includes participating in downtown beautification efforts, contributing to cultural development boards, and sponsoring free public events like summer concert series. By upholding green practices and investing in its hometown, Hotel Colorado leads by example in promoting responsible tourism.
FAQ
What types of accommodations does the hotel offer?
The Hotel Colorado features Victorian-inspired lodging options, from traditional guest rooms to multi-room suites, including special kids’ suites. The pet-friendly Lodge Wing offers modern mountain-contemporary decor and ski-in/ski-out access.
What is there to do without leaving the hotel grounds?
Onsite attractions range from mineral hot springs swimming to spa treatments, dining at restaurants like the Atrium Cafe and Garden Room, plus evening social events from cinema nights to campfire singalongs in the courtyard.
Does the hotel host weddings and events?
Yes! The Hotel Colorado provides gorgeous indoor/outdoor venues for weddings, corporate functions, retreats, and more. Experienced planners also assist with event coordination.
What sets the Hotel Colorado apart from other Glenwood Springs lodgings?
As a historic landmark, the hotel blends Victorian elegance and modern amenities for a one-of-a-kind Rocky Mountain retreat. Along with its storied past, the hotel’s expansive mineral hot springs pool complex distinguishes it from other accommodations.
How can I find the best deals and packages?
Seasonal promotional offers, advance purchase rates, and loyalty member discounts help guests save on their stays. Bundled attraction packages also increase value. Checking the hotel’s specials webpage is the best way to find current deals.
