There’s something special about a historic hotel holding onto its stories. Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs has been doing exactly that since 1893. It’s history, staff, and legends are why one of my favorite stays in the Rockies.
Originally built during Colorado’s silver boom, the hotel quickly became a favorite of socialites, politicians, and travelers looking for fresh mountain air and a little escape. The Molly Brown suite is named after one of the hotel’s most famous guests. “Unsinkable” Molly Brown, a Titanic survivor, was a frequent guest at Hotel Colorado.
During one of President Theodore Roosevelt’s extended stays, Hotel Colorado was dubbed the “White House of the West.” There’s a charming story that’s turned into a legend at the hotel. After an unsuccessful hunt, Roosevelt returned to Hotel Colorado. Hotel maids made a stuffed bear from cloth scraps to cheer him up. Roosevelt’s daughter named it “Teddy” and just like that, the Teddy bear was born. It’s the kind of story that adds a little extra meaning to your stay, especially when you hear while ordering a latte at Legends Café and admiring the wall of stuffed bears. My two favorites are the one that looks like Theodore Roosevelt and the one wearing a red Hotel Colorado tee.
Suite 415: Light, Space, and a Rare Balcony
I’ve stayed at Hotel Colorado multiple times. For this visit, I stayed in Suite 415 and it’s a standout.
The natural light is the first thing you notice. Large windows brighten both the bedroom and the separate living area, giving the suite an open, airy feel that’s not always easy to find in a historic property. The bedroom is spacious and comfortable, while the living area offers multiple seating options and a layout that actually works whether you’re relaxing or getting a bit of work done. There’s also a simple but thoughtful coffee bar setup with a microwave and mini fridge.
But what truly sets Suite 415 apart is the balcony. It’s one of the only rooms in the hotel with one, and it comes with a wide-open view over Glenwood Springs. The mountain air and a quiet view makes you slow down for a minute.
A Little Trade-Off (That Comes with History)
The bathroom is on the smaller side. But that’s part of staying in a hotel that’s been around for more than a century. You’re trading a bit of space for character. In this case, it’s a trade that feels worth it.
Cocktails, Stories, and the Polo Lounge
After a day of exploring, head to the Polo Lounge inside the hotel.
Order the Molly’s Gimlet, named after the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown. It’s a crisp, refreshing cocktail that fits the setting perfectly.
And if you’re lucky, you’ll get to chat with Ashley behind the bar. She’s one of those bartenders who makes the experience memorable with equal parts great conversation and great recommendations.
Steps from Colorado’s Best Hot Springs
Location is another reason this hotel stands out.
It’s within walking distance of the largest hot springs pool in the world at Glenwood Hot Springs Resort. It’s also just a short drive to Iron Mountain Hot Springs, my favorite hot springs in the area. Yampah Vapor Caves and Spa are also just a short drive away.
Why Stay at Hotel Colorado
Suite 415 offers something you don’t find everywhere: space, natural light, and one of the few balconies in a historic hotel that already has more than its share of character.
Add in legendary stories, the setting, and a cocktail with a little history behind it, and you’ve got a stay that feels both classic and memorable.
If you’re looking for a place that’s unique, deeply rooted in Colorado history, and perfectly positioned for both adventure and relaxation, Hotel Colorado is hard to beat.
