Hotel Colorado’s Premier Parlor Suite King combines the character of a 19th-century hotel with the space and comfort I want for a two-night solo getaway for a mini writing and wellness retreat I take every January. The suite has a king bedroom, separate parlor, oversized bathroom and mountain views.

For me, it was the perfect place to relax, write and soak up a little Colorado history.

A Mountain Town Steeped in Relaxation

Located midway between Vail and Aspen, the quaint mountain town is known for its therapeutic hot springs. For centuries, the Ute tribe revered the mineral-rich waters for their healing properties.

Hotel Colorado’s location in Glenwood Springs is one of its biggest advantages. You’re a short drive to the rejuvenating waters of Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Book the WorldSprings area for a globe soaking experience and access to the new Sauna Summit. Hotel Colorado is also just steps away from the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. Yampah Spa and Vapors Caves is also nearby.

The town offers an easy combination of soaking, outdoor adventure, charming boutiques and shops, history, and excellent places to linger over coffee or cocktails.

Staying at Historic Hotel Colorado

Hotel Colorado opened in 1893 during Colorado’s silver boom. Founder Walter Devereux envisioned a grand European-inspired resort that would draw wealthy travelers to Glenwood Springs and its mineral waters.

Known as the “Grand Dame of the Rockies,” the hotel has hosted Presidents Theodore Roosevelt, William Howard Taft and Herbert Hoover. Titanic survivor Margaret “Molly” Brown was also a frequent guest.

One of the hotel’s most charming stories connects Roosevelt to the creation of the teddy bear. According to the legendary story, hotel maids made a stuffed bear from fabric scraps after the president returned from an unsuccessful hunt.

Onward, Mississippi a strong claim to the teddy bear story, so Hotel Colorado describes its version as a beloved legend. Historic hotels do tend to collect a tall tale or two over the decades.

During World War II, the hotel became a U.S. Naval Convalescent Hospital. More than 6,500 patients received care here between 1943 and 1946.

Inside the Premier Parlor Suite King

I chose the Premier Parlor Suite King for a late-January solo getaway focused on relaxation and creative inspiration.

The separate parlor made the suite feel more like a small apartment than a standard hotel room. It gave me space to write, read and enjoy the view without spending the entire evening sitting on the bed.

Large windows brighten both rooms and frame views of the surrounding mountains and hotel courtyard. Two seating areas gave me multiple options for working or simply slowing down with a cup of tea.

The bedroom has a plush king bed and plenty of room to move around. Historic-style furnishings and rich colors complement the age of the hotel without making the suite feel like a museum.

Historic Fireplaces and a Spacious Bathroom

Two exposed fireplaces, one in the bedroom and another in the parlor, are my favorite features.

They are decorative rather than working fireplaces, but they add tremendous character. The fireplaces were uncovered during renovations and offer a glimpse into the hotel’s earlier years.

The oversized bathroom is another highlight. After staying in many historic hotels with bathrooms apparently designed for very tiny Victorians, I appreciated the extra room. A decorative bench added an elegant touch and provided a convenient place for my things.

Because Hotel Colorado is a historic property, rooms and suites can vary. That individuality is part of the appeal, but it is worth confirming specific features when booking.

Dinner and Drinks at the Polo Lounge

After driving from Denver, I headed downstairs for a cocktail and light dinner in the Polo Lounge. As a solo traveler, I prefer it over Baron’s Restaurant.

Plus, I love catching up with Ashley, the wonderfully spirited bartender from South Africa, I met during my first stay at Hotel Colorado in the Molly Brown Suite. I started with Molly’s Gimlet, a refreshing cocktail named for Molly Brown.

I paired it with truffle Parmesan fries. A winter salad topped with grilled salmon arrived just in time to prevent me from polishing off the entire bowl of fries.

For a nightcap, I ordered the cranberry hot toddy. It was a lovely way to warm up before heading upstairs.

The Magic of January: Holiday Lights and Winter Warmth

One reason I love visiting Hotel Colorado in winter is the holiday display.

During my January stay, the historic building and courtyard were still glowing with hundreds of thousands of lights. Inside, decorated trees, garlands and elaborate displays added to the festive atmosphere.

Many destinations pack away the holidays immediately after New Year’s Day. Hotel Colorado allowed me to stretch the season a little longer since they continue the twinkling lights well into January. There’s over a million lights making it a winter wonderland.

Why You Should Book a Parlor Suite Stay

The Premier Parlor Suite King is worth considering if you want more space than a traditional hotel room without losing the historic atmosphere that makes Hotel Colorado special.

It works especially well for a romantic escape, solo retreat or longer stay. The separate parlor gives you room to spread out, while the decorative fireplaces and mountain views make the suite feel distinctive.

I loved having a quiet place to write during the day and an easy walk downstairs for dinner and drinks at night.

Hotel Colorado is not a cookie-cutter luxury hotel. That is precisely why I keep returning. Every room has a little personality, the hallways hold more than a century of stories and the lobby encourages you to sit down and stay awhile.

Affiliate disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or book a stay through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend places and experiences I have personally visited.