Top 14 Cool and Unique Hotels in Denver

Denver was named the third most hip city in the USA, and I personally think that its incredible array of hipster-friendly hotels has much to do with this title! From quirky boutiques to shiny and modern, Here are the ones I’ve stayed at and loved the most…

1. Thompson Hotel 

Thompson Hotel Lobby

Thompson Hotel Denver Guest Room

Thompson Hotel Lounge

A photo from my view of Denver at night from the Thompson Hotel taken spring 2025
My nighttime view of Denver from the floor-to-ceiling windows of my guest room at the Thompson Hotel!

This sleek LoDo gem really wowed me! Designed by Parts+Labor, it blended mid-century modern lines with local wood and stone, while fireplaces and exposed beams in the lobby created a cozy mountain cabin vibe. My allergy-free room was fabulous with its floor-to-ceiling windows framing superb mountain views, a large comfy bed, air-conditioning, and a sleek flat-screen TV.

I was totally impressed by the sleek gym, convenient valet parking, pet-friendly rooms, and the Michelin-starred French restaurant Chez Maggy by chef Ludo Lefebvre — I also loved ending my day with cocktails in the relaxed sixth-floor lounge overlooking the mountains. The LoDo location was spot-on, just steps from Union Station, Coors Field, and the lively Dairy Block.

My personal highlights… 

  • Dining on the divine Pancakes Suzette and Chilaquiles (fried corn tortilla pieces) at the French-style Michelin-starred chef led Chez Maggy each morning!

2. The Curtis Hotel 

The Curtis Hotel Lobby

Curtis Hotel Dining Room

The Curtis Hotel Guest Room

My photo of 16th Street Mall in Downtown Denver near my stay at The Curtis Hotel
My photo of 16th Street Mall in Downtown Denver, just steps away from my stay at The Curtis Hotel!

I really admired how this funky boutique spot mixed retro pop-culture nostalgia with modern style — themed floors inspired by movies, music, and cartoons, bold mid-century décor, and playful artwork made it feel fun and immersive. The friendly staff added to the charm.

My guest room was perfectly sized, with a rain shower, desk, big TV, free Wi-Fi, and the best perk — a Rocky Mountain view right from my window. For the ultimate view though, go for the highest floors!

This spot had an unbeatable downtown location — steps from the Denver Center for the Performing Arts, 16th Street Mall, and Larimer Square — and I couldn’t get enough of the creative dining at The Corner Office Restaurant + Martini Bar, the well-equipped gym, onsite Starbucks, and the quirky art collection.

My favorite highlights… 

  • I loved the superb and very eclectic mix of art on display – the surreal bunny-eared sumo wrestlers, the vintage arcade games, the 42-foot high sculpture titled “All Together Now” and immersive murals by Colorado artist Forrest J. Morrison were stand-outs for me!

3. The Rally Hotel 

The Rally Hotel Bar

The Rally Hotel Bedroom

The Rally Hotel Dining Room

My photo of Coors Field’s buzzing sports bars taken in winter 2025
My photo of a buzzing sports bar in Coors Field which was just steps away from Rally Hotel! 

This stay felt extra memorable — I adored being right by Coors Field and the décor’s Rockies-inspired palette of blush, blue, purple, brown, and grey that made everything feel relaxed yet trendy. The staff were so attentive and welcoming. My modern guest room featured mountain, Coors Field, and city views, a chic retro headboard, tartan wallpaper, freestanding tub, and curated artwork.

Its McGregor Square LoDo location was spot-on — just a short stroll from Union Station, Larimer Square, and all the downtown hotspots. I loved relaxing by the rooftop pool and terrace with incredible city and mountain views, dropping into the fitness studio for yoga and cardio, and ending the day with Rally Bar’s tasty pub fare and creative cocktails at the Grandstand Bar.

My personal highlights… 

  • I thought the free books in my room, which were mostly about the outdoors, nature and survival, added a personal touch of luxury!

4. The Ramble Hotel 

The Ramble Hotel Lobby

The Ramble Hotel Guest Room

Ramble Hotel Entrance

This quickly became one of my favorite spots! This 4-star hotel won me over with its industrial-chic design inspired by the 17th-century French Salons of Madame Rambouillet, trendy but low-key vibe, and welcoming staff.

I couldn’t get enough of the moody blue tones, sparkling chandeliers, plush velvet curtains, warm hickory floors, and vintage Persian rugs. My guest room came with retro furnishings and garden views framed by classic factory-style windows.

I sipped on a potent“Death at the Disco” cocktail at Death & Co., dined on Latin dim sum from chef Dana Rodriguez, and sampled the Garden restaurant’s American-style dishes. Its RiNo location was perfect for me — near the Colorado Convention Center, Great Divide Brewing, Coors Field, The Source, and LoDo.

My personal highlights… 

  • Dining on incredible Latin American Dim Sum at the quirky Super Mega Bien – I opted for the Alcachofas a la Plancha which was grilled artichokes with a spicy poblano-pepita pesto.

5. Gaylord Rockies Resort 

Gaylord Rockies Resort Lobby

Gaylord Rockies Resort

I really liked how this resort felt truly special — a grand mountain-lodge-inspired retreat with soaring timber beams, cozy stone fireplaces, and elegant Western décor that made it feel modern yet wonderfully relaxing. My spacious room carried the same rustic-chic style, with wilderness artwork and breathtaking mountain views — my favorite part.

As I explored, I found a luxe spa, salon, gym, tennis courts, and even a huge indoor-outdoor waterpark perfect for families. Dining was a highlight too — I loved the locally sourced food and wine at Old Hickory Steakhouse, the flavorful Asian fusion at Monte Jade, and poolside drinks and comfort classics at The Arapahoe Springs Bar & Grill.

I sampled creative cocktails at Pinyon’s Bar in the Grand Lodge and grabbed healthy meals and snacks on the go from the handy The Rockies Marketplace.

My favorite highlight… 

  • Visiting their super-cute Cocoa Bean coffee house for a Pumpkin Spice Oat-milk Latte and their divine salted- caramel muffins each morning!

6. The Maven at Dairy Block

Mavern Hotel Lobby

The Maven at Dairy Block Restaurant

Mavern Hotel Bedroom

This design hotel captured the city’s creative spirit and stood out to me with over 700 whimsical pieces of art by local Colorado artists. I was really won over by the trendy interiors and lively vibe.

This stay had all the right touches — my loft-style room came with floor-to-ceiling windows, mid-century furniture, a balcony with sweeping city views, a pour-over coffee maker, Wi-Fi, and a practical work area. Best of all, I was just a 6-minute walk from Union Station and within easy reach of Denver’s best spots like 16th Street Mall, Larimer Square, and Coors Field.

I also really enjoyed hopping between the three on-site eateries, especially the quirky Airstream serving margaritas and chips!

  • To book, check prices or availability for Maven Hotel

My personal highlights…

  • Being located in the middle of the hip Dairy Block micro-district – I was especially fond of the quirky Ghost Donkey Bar where I was addicted to their unique and smoky mushroom margaritas made with huitlacoche-infused Montelobos Mezcal Espadín! 

7. Moxy Hotel

Moxy Hotel Denver

Moxy Hotel Patio in Denver

Moxy Hotel Denver Lobby

I was totally charmed by the playful, millennial-friendly energy here! Its industrial-chic design paired minimalist rooms with smart layouts and vibrant lounges with bold artwork and neon signs — so it perfect for trendy travelers!

I really liked my chic, high-tech room — it had a sleek platform bed, quirky art, mountain views, a rainfall shower, and a Smart TV that made it as fun as it was practical.

Its Cherry Creek setting was ideal, close to downtown, luxury boutiques, galleries, and great dining. Highlights for me included the check-in bar in the lobby, the rooftop deck with mountain views, the playful game areas, and the live country music event I got to attend.

  • To book, check prices or availability for Moxy Hotel

My favorite highlights… 

  • I loved all the fun and sociable games they had – I ended up playing a giant Connect Four game as well as table tennis, foosball, and even a retro Snakes and Ladders board game!

8. Source Hotel 

Source Hotel Lobby in Denver

Source Hotel Restaurant

Source Hotel Swimming Pool

This Scandi-chic boutique hotel was a real gem! What really won me over was how it doubled as a market hall and creative space, with a rooftop restaurant and in-house New Belgium Brewing brewery. The interiors honored its ironworks past, pairing polished concrete floors with Muuto furniture and a breezy Scandinavian-meets-Japanese aesthetic.

My funky room was a design lover’s dream with custom Baltic-birch furniture, a curated bookshelf, exposed concrete, a plush luxury bed, and a Japanese soaking tub I couldn’t get enough of — as well as speedy Wi-Fi, USB outlets, and a well-stocked mini-bar.

Its RiNo district location was perfect, surrounded by street art, galleries, and some of Denver’s best eats. I soaked in Rocky Mountain views from the rooftop pool and bar, sampled craft beer at the brewery, and browsed the market hall’s local vendors.

My personal highlights… 

  • Being given a complimentary wood-aged sour beer called “La Folie” from the tap from the reception staff – I thought this was a nice and very welcoming touch!

9. The Catbird Hotel in RINO

Catbird Hotel Lobby

Catbird Hotel Bedroom

This felt like a cozy, stylish haven! I discovered its design blurred the line between hotel and home, incorporating the historic 1890 Klee House, residential-style amenities, and local art and culinary touches.

My loft-style room nailed the RiNo vibe with its multifunctional furniture, kitchenette, smart tech, and décor inspired by the neighborhood’s creative spirit. My favorite feature was a a projector and screen that turned the space into my own private cinema. The location was perfect for my stay — right in the RiNo Art District, surrounded by street art, breweries, and great eateries, with Union Station and downtown just minutes away.

I enjoyed starting my day with fresh breakfasts and all-day coffee, hanging out at the Red Barber rooftop bar with its killer city views, and checking out “The Playroom,” where I could rent everything from bikes to GoPros.

My highlights… 

  • Hanging out at the rooftop – I loved the trendy fire pit, large communal hot tub, he amphitheater, and the fun life-sized games which included giant Jenga!

10. Clayton Members Club & Hotel

Clayton Members Club & Hotel

Clayton Members Club & Hotel

Clayton Members Club & Hotel Swimming Pool

This place had a chic private-club feel which I really enjoyed! Its contemporary design, inspired by Soho House, combined exclusive perks with welcoming public spaces. Inside, I found bespoke architecture, contemporary art, and cozy corners that made it feel both artsy and sophisticated.

This stay felt polished and cozy — my room had blackout drapes, Frette bedding, a rain shower stocked with Grown Alchemist products, a smart TV, and Denver-inspired artwork. Best of all, I was steps from Cherry Creek’s boutiques, art galleries, trendy eateries, and farmers’ markets.

I enjoyed the members-only wine list, club lounges, valet service, and the rooftop restaurant and pool. With four onsite restaurants — including vegan and gluten-free options — there was always something new to chow down on!

My highlights…

  • Sipping on a refreshing rooftop Cucumber Caipirinha cocktail while gazing at the city skyline on their Rooftop Bar.

11. Life House 

Life House Hotel Dining Room

Life House Hotel Bedroom

Life House Hotel in Denver

This boutique was a real gem! It had the charm of a Victorian home with chic modern touches — rich textiles, dark wood accents, and vintage furnishings created a cozy yet refined retreat. I adored its warm, bohemian-meets-vintage vibe.

This stay felt effortlessly cool — my room had a retro headboard, fun cow-print pillows, floral wall art, Revival New York linens, a Marshall speaker, and Apple TV. The staff were great and showed me the family rooms with built-in bunks — a clever touch for groups.

The LoHi neighborhood was ideal, full of dining spots, breweries, indie boutiques, and the Platte River trails. I especially loved Wildflowers, where I sampled seasonal dishes and creative cocktails.

  • To book, check prices or availability for Life House

My favorite highlights… 

  • The complementary Le Labo bath products in my guest which where made with high-quality plant-based ingredients and essential oils – I loved rose scent and the fact they were vegan and cruelty-free!

12. Crawford Hotel 

Crawford Hotel in Denver

Crawford Hotel Lobby

Crawford Hotel Lobby

Crawford Hotel Guest Room

I thought this place was wow-inducing! Set in historic Union Station and overlooking the lively Great Hall, it had an unique, upscale vibe with a perfect mix of restored 19th-century details, vintage furnishings, and modern style.

My romantic guest room was gorgeous — with Art Deco details, soaring ceilings, luxe bedding, a rainfall shower, loaner iPad, free Wi-Fi, a 46-inch TV, and even a playful in-room cocktail program. The LoDo location was unbeatable, just steps from bars, restaurants, shops, Amtrak, and the A-Line to the airport.

I loved starting my day with the hearty buffet breakfast, relaxing in the stylish Cooper Lounge, grabbing cocktails at Terminal Bar, browsing the European-style market and New York-style deli, and taking advantage of the Oxford Club Spa & Fitness Center and Pigtrain coffee shop.

My personal highlights… 

  • I loved all the artisanal touches especially my guest room cute cocktail kit from Union Station’s Cooper Lounge and the coffee which was the Colorado’s Strava Craft Coffee brand.

13. Warwick Hotel 

Warwick Hotel Swimming Pool

Warwick Hotel Lobby

My photo of Central Business District in Denver near my stay in Warwick Hotel
My photo of Denver’s busy Central Business District, taken near my stay at the Warwick Hotel!

This funky design hotel stood out to me as the site of Colorado’s first Playboy Club, mixing historic charm with modern luxury and Denver’s only year-round rooftop heated pool. I was charmed by the warm tones, upscale furnishings, and mid-century accents that made it feel sophisticated yet inviting.

This stay felt chic and fun — my spacious room featured luxurious bedding, floor-to-ceiling windows, a private balcony, marble bathroom accents, a flat-screen TV, and retro ’70s artwork that gave it character. I loved the Uptown location, just minutes from downtown and Denver’s best dining and nightlife.

My favorite moments were soaking in the rooftop pool with skyline views, grabbing a drink at the lively pool bar, taking out a loaner bike, and enjoying Italian dishes with a Colorado twist at The Gattara.

My personal highlights… 

  • I loved the stunning views from my guest room – the views stretched out from city all the way to the surrounding snow-capped Rocky Mountains! 

14. Brown Palace Hotel 

Brown Palace Hotel and Spa

Brown Palace Hotel and Spa Lounge

Brown Palace Hotel and Spa Lobby

I discovered this upscale Denver landmark, open since 1892, hosted King George V, The Beatles, and U.S. presidents! I too was personally really taken with its triangular sandstone building and Italian Renaissance atrium with stained-glass ceiling, arches, woodwork, and vintage chandeliers.

This place radiated timeless elegance, balancing old-world grandeur with modern comfort. My guest room felt romantic with dark wood finishes, red-and-gold accents, fine bedding, vintage décor, a 42-inch TV, and a polished Carrera-marble bathroom. Downtown was just outside the door, perfect for strolling to the 16th Street Mall and exploring Denver’s highlights.

I couldn’t get enough of the lively English tavern, the moody cigar bar, elegant afternoon tea, gourmet Palace Arms dinners, and the one-of-a-kind artesian well spa.

My personal highlights..

  • Finding out from staff that the honey I was gorging on at breakfast was harvested from the hotel’s very own rooftop beehive!
About Gary Nunn

Gary Nunn - Videographer, photographer and writer Gary is an award winning full time professional photographer and videographer with too much wanderlust for his own good. Fueled by strong coffee, you’ll often find him wandering well off hiking trails in search of interesting photographic subjects or scenery to video. Self taught and with the use of pioneering digital techniques, he quickly built up a strong client base and has worked with many prestigious organizations, including GQ, BBC, London Fashion Week, Grazia, Sky, Metro, Vogue Italia. He specializing in evocative images of people, places and cinematic videography and his goal is to make the viewer look twice and engage. As well as a penchant for good design, travel, starting up new businesses, the ketogenic diet and Hungarian Vizslas, he also has a huge affection for Chicago, Bucharest, Scandinavia, Croatia and absolutely everywhere in Italy. Find Gary on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or his Website. Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board, Expedia, Eviivo, Visit Morocco, and Wild in Sight Safaris. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos. Listed as a top UK travel journalist.

24 thoughts on “Top 14 Cool and Unique Hotels in Denver”

  1. Looking forward to exploring these cool and fun hotels in Lake Tahoe! From cozy lodges to upscale resorts, this list has got it all. Perfect for anyone planning a memorable stay in this stunning destination. Excited to experience the unique vibes each hotel has to offer!

    Reply

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