Originally founded as a gold-mining town in the 19th century, Denver is now one of the fastest-growing cities in the US.
Photograph by Joe Daniel Price, Getty Images
The Mile High City is redefining itself with a raft of innovative hotels.
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).
The Mile High City, so named because it stands one mile above sea level, is scaling new heights. Situated where the Great Plains meet the Rocky Mountains, Denver was founded as a gold-mining town in 1858 — a history commemorated by the gold-plated dome of the state capitol. Today, it’s known for its gleaming skyscrapers and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US, with urbanites and travellers alike drawn to its art trails, craft beer and elevated food scene (featuring everything from cheese-filled khachapuri bread to beef tacos), plus its boundless opportunities for outdoor pursuits.
1. Thompson Denver
A number of hotels have recently popped up across the city — and Thompson Denver, in LoDo (Lower Downtown), within walking distance of the Denver Art Museum, Urban Station’s upmarket restaurants and the cool Dairy Block district, is one of the most exciting. The interiors marry the city’s heritage with the great outdoors, with a palette of browns, deep greens and granite greys. There are also fun touches like saddle-leather headboards in its mid-century-inspired rooms. Since opening in 2022, Chez Maggy, the hotel’s French brasserie, has been one of the hottest dinner tickets in town. It’s headed up by chef Ludo Lefebvre, who uses native ingredients with flair in dishes such as bison tartare and Coloradan lamb chops with dandelion puree. The mood-lit Reynard Social bar is good for cocktails like tybert’s tailspin, made with Barr Hill Tom Cat gin, St Germain, Aperol, honey and fresh lemon. From $299 (£238).
2. Populus
Next to Civic Center Park, Populus is set to open its doors this summer. Its exterior is inspired by the bark of Colorado’s native aspen trees, while its 265 rooms are decorated in shades of sand and terracotta. Low-impact materials have been used in construction; the wooden slats on display in the lobby, for instance, are reclaimed fencing. The plan also includes a promise to plant 5,000 acres of trees.
From $299 (£238).
3. The Rally Hotel
This 182-room hotel in the LoDo district hits a home run with its subtle sporty design: the tasteful, museum-worthy displays of signed memorabilia and red-stitch wall accents are a nod to the neighbouring Coors Field baseball stadium. The rooms put a playful twist on the traditional, blending tobacco leathers and woods with pops of purple. From $299 (£238).
4. Limelight Denver
Hotel brand Limelight added this property to its portfolio last summer. Guest rooms, some of which offer views towards the Rockies, are awash with knotty natural woods and leather furniture. The hotel sits beside Union Station, and its restaurant, Citizen Rail, takes its design cues from its neighbour. Coloradan produce and seasonal ingredients feature on the menu. From $350 (£278).
Published in the April 2024 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK).
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