10 Best Unique Hotels in Denver You’ll Want to Book ASAP

375

Denver blew me away with its hotel scene—seriously, who knew? On my last trip, I stayed near Union Station and fell in love with how the city mixes mountain vibes with urban coolness. The location was perfect—I could walk to great restaurants and still see those gorgeous Rockies in the distance.

Let me tell you, the best places in Denver aren’t just somewhere to crash after a day of exploring. These spots have character! Some have rooftop bars where I spent way too many evenings watching the sunset with a local craft beer, while others showcase Colorado’s artistic side. After bouncing between neighborhoods and testing way too many hotel pillows, I’ve rounded up the most unique stays that’ll make your Denver trip unforgettable.

Top Unique Stays in Denver

Looking to discover unique places to stay in Denver? Beyond the typical accommodations, the city offers plenty of distinctive options waiting to be explored. Relax at The Crawford Hotel, located in the historic Union Station. Experience the charm of The Curtis Hotel, offering playful themes and modern design. Unwind at The Ramble Hotel, known for its eclectic style and lively atmosphere.

Hotel	Neighborhood	Best For	Hotel Prices	Walkability	Vibe
The Brown Palace	Downtown	Luxury Travelers, History Enthusiast	$$$$	High	Historic, Elegant
The ART Hotel	Cultural District	Art Enthusiasts, Instagram Lovers	$$$	High	Artistic, Modern
The Ramble Hotel	RiNo Art District	Hip Travelers, Cocktail Enthusiasts	$$$	High	Industrial-chic, Creative
The Curtis Hotel	Downtown	Pop Culture Fans, Fun Seekers	$$	High	Playful, Nostalgic
Patterson Inn	Capitol Hill	History Lovers, Romantic Getaways	$$$	Moderate	Charming, Historic
The Acoma House	Lincoln Park	Independent Travelers, Extended Stays	$$	Moderate	Local, Residential
Hotel Teatro	Downtown	Theater Lovers, Luxury Seekers	$$$	High	Sophisticated, Refined
Capitol Hill Mansion B&B	Capitol Hill	Romantic Getaways, History Enthusiasts	$$	Moderate	Victorian, Intimate
The Crawford Hotel	Union Station	Train Enthusiasts, Luxury Travelers	$$$$	High	Historic, Convenient
The Rally Hotel	McGregor Square	Sports Fans, Modern Travelers	$$$	High	Contemporary, Lively

Whether you’re into history, modern flair, or boutique experiences, here are 12 of Denver’s most exceptional places to stay!

1. The Brown Palace

The Brown Palace sits right in downtown Denver’s heart and honestly, it’s way more than just a fancy hotel. I stayed here last spring and couldn’t get over how they’ve kept all that 1892 charm while adding modern touches that actually work. The triangular building is pretty iconic, and that eight-story atrium lobby with the stained glass ceiling? It’s stunning, but not in a stuffy museum way.

Rooms start around $400-500 per night in 2025, but you’re getting serious luxury here. The marble bathrooms are gorgeous, and I loved having a Keurig in my room for those early morning coffee needs. The afternoon tea service is legit – I’m talking three-tiered stands with proper scones and finger sandwiches for $89 per person. It sounds pricey but it’s actually a solid deal compared to other cities.

Ship Tavern downstairs does great burgers and has this old-school tavern vibe that feels authentic, not fake. Palace Arms is their fine dining spot, and they’re doing a cool summer pop-up called Le Palais Frites with a French-inspired prix fixe menu for $49. The spa uses water from their own artesian well, which is pretty unique. Plus, you’re walking distance to Union Station and the 16th Street Mall, so you don’t need to Uber everywhere.

2. The ART Hotel

The ART Hotel is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025 with special events running June through August, and honestly, this place knows how to throw a party. I’ve been to the rooftop FIRE restaurant multiple times, and those mountain views never get old. The hotel sits right in the Golden Triangle Cultural District, so you’re literally steps from the Denver Art Museum and Clyfford Still Museum.

Each floor has curated art installations, which sounds pretentious but it’s actually pretty cool. The Larry Bell “Light Knots” piece in FIRE restaurant is wild – it changes depending on the lighting. Rooms run about $300-450 per night and come with those huge floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the mountains perfectly. The $20 daily amenity fee includes high-speed WiFi, a $20 restaurant credit, complimentary car service within two miles, and snacks in your room.

FIRE Terrace is where you want to spend your evenings – they’ve got Sunset Sessions every Friday 7-9pm through August with DJs and craft cocktails. The Sunday Yappy Hour (2-4pm, May through August) gives you 20% off if you bring your dog, which is pretty genius. The hotel offers 165 rooms, and their rooftop yoga sessions during anniversary season are surprisingly popular. I tried one and it was way better than expected, even for someone who usually avoids group fitness.

3. The Ramble Hotel

The Ramble Hotel is basically the coolest place to stay in RiNo (River North Art District), and I mean that in the best way possible. This 50-room boutique property houses Death & Co, the legendary cocktail bar from NYC, right in their lobby. I’ve probably spent too many nights here sipping mezcal cocktails and people-watching.

The hotel opened in 2018 and rates typically run $250-400 per night. What makes it special is how they’ve created this whole community vibe – it’s inspired by 17th-century French salons where artists and thinkers would gather. Sounds fancy, but it works. The rooms have wide-plank hickory floors and Persian rugs, plus they’ve got double-wide walls so you don’t hear every conversation in the hallway.

Death & Co takes reservations and gets packed, especially on weekends, so book ahead. DC/AM serves breakfast and lunch with excellent coffee and pastries. Super Mega Bien, the pan-Latin restaurant from James Beard-nominated Chef Dana Rodriguez, does this cool roaming dim sum cart thing. There’s also Suite 6a, a reservation-only private bar on the mezzanine that does cocktail tasting menus. The outdoor courtyard garden is perfect for summer drinking, and Vauxhall hosts intimate music shows. You’re a short walk to Coors Field and all the street art that makes RiNo worth exploring.

4. The Curtis Hotel

The Curtis Hotel is pure nostalgia done right, and I can’t help but smile every time I walk through the lobby. Each floor has a different pop culture theme – “One Hit Wonders,” “Sci-Fi,” “Rock Stars” – and while it could easily be cheesy, they’ve executed it really well. This DoubleTree property sits across from the Denver Performing Arts Complex and you’re blocks from the 16th Street Mall.

Rooms typically cost $200-350 per night, and you get all the DoubleTree perks like those warm cookies at check-in. The themed rooms are Instagram gold without being over-the-top. I stayed on the “Dumb and Dumber” floor last year and loved the attention to detail. The lobby’s five-and-dime shop sells retro candy that immediately took me back to being eight years old.

Corner Office restaurant does solid global comfort food and boozy brunches that are actually worth the calories. The free shuttle service within downtown is clutch if you’re planning to bar-hop or catch a show. They’ve kept the fun factor high while maintaining comfort levels that business travelers appreciate. The location puts you right in the theater district, so you can easily catch a show at the Buell Theatre or Ellie Caulkins Opera House without dealing with parking nightmares.

5. Patterson Inn

Patterson Inn is housed in this gorgeous 1891 sandstone mansion in Capitol Hill, and staying here feels like you’re crashing at your coolest friend’s historic house. They’ve only got nine rooms, each with its own theme and personality. I stayed in “Prague” with its Gothic touches and loved how intimate the whole experience felt.

Nightly rates run $180-320, which is pretty reasonable for what you get. The gourmet breakfast alone is worth it – we’re talking fresh pastries, seasonal ingredients, and coffee that doesn’t suck. The wine hour in the original wood-paneled library is a nice touch, and the basement speakeasy The Crypt serves craft cocktails with ghost stories included.

You’re walking distance to Cheesman Park and the Denver Botanic Gardens, plus Capitol Hill has some of the city’s best restaurants and bars within a few blocks. The mansion sits on a tree-lined street that feels residential but you’re still close to downtown. Free parking is huge in this neighborhood where street spots are basically impossible. The owners actually live on-site, so service feels genuinely personal rather than corporate. If you want boutique charm without boutique prices, this place delivers.

• Read Next: 12 Must-See Attractions in Rocky Mountain National Park
• You may also like: Fun Things to Do in Denver at Night

6. The Acoma House

The Acoma House gives you that “living like a local” experience without the Airbnb uncertainty. This restored Victorian house in Lincoln Park has four luxury suites, each with full kitchens and locally crafted furniture. I stayed here when visiting friends in Denver and loved having a proper kitchen to make coffee and store leftovers.

Rates typically run $200-350 per night, and you’re getting way more space than a hotel room. The mid-century modern aesthetic works really well with the Victorian bones of the house. The rooftop deck has downtown views and mountain glimpses that are perfect for morning coffee or evening wine.

Lincoln Park is having a moment – it’s got this cool residential vibe with great local spots within walking distance. You’re close to the Santa Fe Arts District where First Friday art walks happen monthly. The contactless check-in system works smoothly, and they provide a digital concierge with local recommendations that go beyond the usual tourist stuff. The suites come stocked with locally-made snacks and toiletries, which are nice touches. It’s perfect if you want to feel like you actually live in Denver for a few days rather than just visiting.

7. Hotel Teatro

Hotel Teatro nails that sweet spot between luxury and approachability. This 1911 tramway building sits right across from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, making it perfect if you’re catching a show. The lobby showcases costumes from local theater productions, which sounds gimmicky but it’s actually pretty cool.

Room rates typically range $250-400 per night, and the historic character is legit – original marble floors, oversized windows, and rainfall showers that actually have good water pressure. The Study serves excellent coffee during the day and transforms into a cocktail spot at night. The whole vibe is sophisticated without being stuffy.

Nickel restaurant focuses on Colorado ingredients and local farms, and their seasonal menu changes keep things interesting. You’re steps from Larimer Square‘s restaurants and shops, plus Union Station is an easy walk. The hotel’s location in the theater district means you can stumble back to your room after shows without dealing with rideshare surge pricing. The staff seems to genuinely know the local theater scene and can help with show recommendations and last-minute tickets. Business travelers love the quiet rooms and reliable WiFi, but it’s equally good for weekend getaways.

• Read Next: 12 Fun & Unique Restaurants in Denver, Colorado

8. Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn

Capitol Hill Mansion Bed & Breakfast Inn is for people who want that intimate B&B experience without sacrificing location. This 1891 sandstone mansion has eight themed rooms, and the owners live on-site, so you get that personal touch that chain hotels can’t match. I’ve stayed here twice and the multi-course breakfast alone makes it worth it.

Rates run $150-280 per night, which includes that amazing breakfast and afternoon wine on the wrap-around porch. You’re blocks from the Colorado State Capitol and Molly Brown House Museum, plus Capitol Hill has some of Denver’s best dive bars and coffee shops. The free parking is huge in this neighborhood.

The Victorian charm is real – original woodwork, antique furnishings, and fireplaces that actually work. But they’ve updated the important stuff like WiFi and bathrooms. The “Cheshire” room with its soaking tub is my favorite, though “Prague” with Gothic touches runs a close second. The breakfast features homemade pastries and seasonal ingredients that change based on what’s good at local farmers markets. It’s perfect for romantic getaways or if you just want to feel like you’re staying somewhere with actual character instead of another cookie-cutter hotel.

• Read Next: 12 Fun Things to Do in Colorado

9. The Crawford Hotel

The Crawford Hotel lets you sleep inside Denver Union Station, which is pretty unique when you think about it. The 112 rooms are spread across the upper floors with three different themes – pullman train cabins, Victorian lofts, and classic dormers. I stayed in a pullman room and loved the train-inspired design without feeling cramped.

Rates typically run $300-500 per night, but the location is unbeatable. You’re literally inside one of Denver’s most beautiful buildings, with Coors Field, Larimer Square, and downtown restaurants all within easy walking distance. The hotel provides a Tesla courtesy car for trips within two miles, which is a nice touch.

Hotel guests get priority seating at Stoic & Genuine (excellent seafood) and complimentary beer at Terminal Bar. The station itself houses multiple restaurants, bars, and shops, so you can easily spend hours just exploring without leaving the building. The rooms are soundproofed well considering you’re above an active transit hub. Union Station connects to the airport train, so you can literally walk from your room to catch the A-Line. The Great Hall downstairs is stunning and makes for a pretty impressive lobby. It’s perfect if you want luxury accommodations with the convenience of being connected to everything downtown.

• Read Next: 12 Must-See Places in Colorado

10. The Rally Hotel

The Rally Hotel is the newest addition to Denver’s hotel scene, anchoring McGregor Square right next to Coors Field. If you’re a baseball fan, the location literally can’t be beat – you can walk to games without dealing with parking or crowds. The eighth floor is designed at exactly 5,280 feet above sea level (Mile High City reference) and features purple accents.

Room rates run $200-400 per night depending on whether you want mountain or ballpark views. The rooftop pool has those Instagram-worthy mountain vistas that make your friends back home jealous. The Original restaurant downstairs reimagines classic diner food with upscale ingredients – their breakfast is surprisingly good.

You’re connected to Union Station via the 16th Street MallRide (it’s free), making airport connections and downtown exploration easy. The hotel opened in 2021, so everything feels fresh and modern. During baseball season, the energy in McGregor Square is electric with pregame activities and live music. The rooms are well-designed with quality bedding and good blackout curtains, which matters if you’re sleeping after late games. Even if you’re not into baseball, the location puts you within walking distance of RiNo, downtown, and LoDo neighborhoods. The mountain views from upper floors are legitimately stunning, especially at sunset.

• Read Next: 12 Best Spa Hotels Near Denver, Colorado

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Unusual Places to Stay in Denver

Are you looking for more content about where to stay in Denver? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about unique Denver hotels.

Is Denver walkable for tourists?

Absolutely! Denver is a delight for those who love to explore on foot. The city’s layout is quite tourist-friendly, especially around downtown and the popular LoDo (Lower Downtown) area, one of Denver’s best neighborhoods. You’ll find a lot of attractions, restaurants, and shops within walking distance. The 16th Street Mall, a mile-long pedestrian promenade, is a must-visit. It’s lined with cafes, shops, and street performers, making for a lively stroll. Plus, the city’s bike-sharing program is a great option if you want to cover more ground.

Is it best to stay downtown in Denver?

Staying downtown is a great choice, especially for first-time visitors. It puts you right in the heart of the action, with easy access to top attractions like the Denver Art Museum, Coors Field, and Union Station. Downtown Denver also offers a wide range of dining and entertainment options. If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere and want to be where things are happening, downtown is the place to be.

Where do celebrities stay in Denver?

Celebrities visiting Denver often opt for luxury and privacy. The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa is a popular choice, known for its opulent decor and historic charm. Another favorite is The Ritz-Carlton, Denver, which offers upscale amenities and top-notch service. These hotels provide a discreet and exclusive experience, which is why they’re a hit with the rich and famous.

How far is the airport from downtown Denver?

Denver International Airport (DIA) is about 25 miles northeast of downtown Denver. The drive typically takes around 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. An excellent alternative to driving is the Denver airport train, known as the A Line, which connects the airport to Union Station downtown. It’s a convenient and stress-free way to travel, with a journey time of around 37 minutes. The best part, this airport offers affordable travel deals from Denver to other destinations.

What is the best month to visit Denver?

Denver is great to visit year-round, but if I had to pick, September would be my top choice. The weather is comfortable – not too hot, not too cold – making it perfect for outdoor activities. Plus, you get to see the beautiful fall colors. If you’re into skiing or winter sports, then January to March is ideal for hitting the nearby slopes. Summer (June to August) is also popular for its outdoor concerts and festivals, but it can get quite busy.

Final Thoughts: Denver’s Unique Hotels

Wrapping up, Denver has been an absolute joy to explore. The variety of unique stays has made the experience even more memorable. If I had to pick a favorite, it would be The Crawford Hotel. Its blend of Denver’s rich history with modern luxury, right above the bustling Union Station, offers an experience like no other. The convenience of being in the heart of the city, coupled with the charm of staying in a place with such a unique character, really stood out for me.

If you’re here for the mountain views, the city vibes, or a bit of both, Denver’s best hotels cater to all tastes and preferences. Each place I’ve mentioned has its own charm, ensuring your stay in Denver is not just comfortable, but also filled with delightful experiences. What’s more, if you prefer a self-catered place to stay, there are plenty of unique Airbnbs in Denver to choose from, too.

Happy travels, and enjoy your stay in the Mile High City!