Where to Stay in Denver → 8 BEST Areas (+ TOP Hotels)

Sunrise over Denver, with the city skyline against a vibrant sky and streetlights trailing along the highway, emphasizing the early morning hustle

Denver is the capital of the US state of Colorado, and it’s located 1.6 km (exactly a mile!) above sea level, which is why it’s well-known as the Mile High City! What makes this city a perfect destination is its history and culture, so I’m sure you’re already thinking about where to stay in Denver.

My goal is to make your life easier and your trip more pleasant, so I compared all Denver neighborhoods and picked out the 8 best ones. 

The top area to stay in when you visit Denver is LoDo, home to the many important attractions, great restaurants, trendy bars, and amazing hotels. 

To make things even simpler, I went through almost all hotel options in Denver and handpicked the best ones for each of the recommended areas and sorted them by price. 

Wherever you decide to stay, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance – Denver is a popular destination, and hotels sell out super quickly! 

Let’s discover what Mile High City has to offer! 

If you’re in a hurry

Want to make a reservation now? Here’s a list of the premier hotels in LoDo, Denver: 

luxury hotel
Luxurious bedroom with a large bed featuring white bedding and plush pillows, and a window with a cityscape view
mid-range hotel
Elegant indoor swimming pool with clear blue water, surrounded by lounging areas and large windows
budget hotel
Stylish living room with a blue sofa, orange armchair, wooden coffee table, and abstract art on the wall

KASA UNION STATION

Affordable accommodation

Check out this map of the 8 Denver neighborhoods featured in this post:

A colorful map highlighting the best areas to stay in Denver with numbered locations and labels for easy navigation
  1. LODO: for the first time
  2. DOWNTOWN (CBD): for business travelers
  3. RINO: for nightlife
  4. CHERRY CREEK: for luxury
  5. CAPITOL HILL: for budget travelers
  6. UPTOWN DENVER: for cool activities
  7. LOHI: for families
  8. SOUTH BROADWAY (SOBO): for foodies

1. LoDo (Lower Downtown) – best area for first-time visitors

Exterior view of Union Station in Denver with 'Travel by Train' neon sign, showcasing classical architectural features

Downtown Denver is divided into smaller areas, but the best ones I recommend to travelers are LoDo (short for Lower Downtown) and Central Business District – more on this in the next section. LoDo is the heart and soul of the city and the best area for people visiting this city for the first time.

Lower Downtown, also known as LoDo or Union Station, is a great area with a lively atmosphere and beautiful Victorian-style architecture—a staple of Colorado state. 

The LoDo neighborhood is centered around Union Station (map), the main railway station in the city. After you explore Denver, you can hop on a train and discover other amazing places in the state. 

Near Union Station, you’ll find the Dairy Block (map), a large urban complex hosting many stylish bars and restaurants, luxury boutiques, and even a hotel. This is a great place to stop for a cup of coffee before you embark on a new journey. 

One of the main points of interest in this part of Denver is the historic Larimer Square (map), situated on the very spot where the city was founded. While in the area, I suggest you visit the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver, which hosts a variety of cool exhibitions. If you’d like to spend some time outdoors, there’s no better place than Confluence Park (map). This lovely urban park is situated right by the river, and it’s a great place to sit back and relax. And if you’re a sports fan, you’ll be happy to hear that Coors Field (map), the base of the Colorado Rockies baseball team, is located at the very edge of the neighborhood.

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: An aerial night view of a hotel's illuminated exterior, a contemporary room with sweeping city views, and a cozy bedroom showcasing a sunset through the window.

This is one of the best luxury hotels in LoDo, offering awesome facilities and amenities, such as 2 on-site restaurants, a fitness center, a terrace, and more! It’s also located a mile away from the Denver Performing Arts Complex and provides room service, as well as round-the-clock front desk service.

Other accommodation options in LoDo

MID-RANGE
Sleek, modern hotel room with minimalist decor, a large bed, wood paneling, and soft lighting

Within walking distance of Union Station, this hotel boasts a snack bar, a business center, and an on-site restaurant

BUDGET
Indoor swimming pool with clear blue water, surrounded by lounge chairs and floor-to-ceiling windows

Conveniently located in the city center, the accommodation offers private parking, free Wi-Fi, and access to a fitness center

AIRBNB
A modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances, white cabinetry, and a living area with a grey sofa and striped rug

In a central location in Lower Downtown, a studio apartment with a luxurious king bed and views of Coors Field

Things to do in Lower Downtown

  • Go bar-hopping at the Dairy Block
  • Stop by McGregor Square (map)
  • Pay a visit to the historic Larimer Square
  • Try some local beers on this local craft beer tour
  • Spend some time at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver
  • Catch a baseball game at Coors Field
  • Enjoy a meal with a view of the Denver skyline at Viewhouse Ballpark

2. Downtown Denver (CBD) – top area in Denver for business travelers

Vibrant street view in Downtown Denver, lined with green trees and a mixture of modern and traditional buildings

The Central Business District (CBD) is part of the downtown area, bordering LoDo in the Northwest. CBD is a bustling district that is great for all types of travelers, but mostly businesspeople, since the Colorado Convention Center is right in the center of the neighborhood.

Even if you’re not attending an event at the Colorado Convention Center, you should still stop by the building to admire the architecture and see some of the art displayed there – look out for the Blue Bear statue! However, there are plenty of other ways you can spend your time in CBD! 

If you’re wondering where to start, I recommend checking the schedule for the Denver Performing Arts Complex. It hosts a variety of shows and events, so you’ll certainly find something to your liking. 

Your next stop should be the 16th Street Mall (map), an iconic shopping center featuring many stores and over 40 cool cafes and restaurants. If you want some extra fun, the Museum of Illusions is a great place to spend an afternoon – you won’t regret it! 

Once you’ve visited all the main points of interest in the CBD, head South to the Golden Triangle, which is also part of downtown. While in the area, you should not overlook the Denver Art Museum, which showcases various exhibitions covering everything from ancient civilizations to modern art. There are also a couple of smaller museums in the area, so if that’s your thing, you should also check out the Clyfford Still Museum.

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: an upscale rooftop bar with mountain views, and a chic lobby bar with blue velvet seating and a minimalistic bedroom with white bedding

Make sure to book a room here if you want to splurge full-on during your vacation! This cool property has an incredible terrace with a view, and it is close to multiple noted attractions! Some of the facilities at the hotel include a fitness center, 3 restaurants, a bar, and a business center.

Other accommodation options in the CBD

MID-RANGE
Contemporary bedroom with a large bed centered between two windows, with a view of the city skyline

The Hyatt boasts an indoor pool, private parking, family rooms, and a 24-hour reception ready to provide help and advice

BUDGET
A cozy corner featuring exposed brick walls, a vintage green sofa, a wooden bookcase, and a piano

This is truly one of the cheapest hotels out there! Near downtown Denver, it awaits a cool and friendly atmosphere and clean rooms, of course!

AIRBNB
Cozy hotel lobby with a modern fireplace, comfortable seating, and stylish light fixtures, with a view of a city street outside

A spacious studio with a king-sized bed, a full kitchen, a dining area, and free Wi-FI access

Things to do in the Central Business District

  • Stop by to admire the architecture of the Colorado Convention Center
  • Attend an event at the Denver Performing Arts Complex
  • Take a few hours to explore the 16th Street Mall
  • Get tickets for one of the cool shows at the Bellco Theatre
  • Pay a visit to the Denver Art Museum

3. RiNo – top neighborhood for nightlife

Vibrant street mural of a rhino superimposed over mountain scenery on an urban building wall

Locally known as RiNo (River North Art District), this neighborhood is 1.5 miles (2.5 km) Northeast of LoDo. With its vibrant atmosphere and variety of bars, brew pubs, and dining venues, RiNo is one of the top Denver neighborhoods for nightlife. 

As industry moved out of the city’s core in the late 1980s and 90s, this corridor was left with empty warehouses and infrastructure. At this time, different artists began to populate the area because of the low prices. As a result, the neighborhood became a fertile ground for artists and creatives.

Today, these old industrial buildings have been revamped and decorated with stunning street art and now house everything from nightclubs and dive bars to art galleries and food courts.

The best way to explore the River North Art District is to put on your walking shoes and roam the streets. As you walk around, you’ll be able to see the many colorful murals, stop somewhere for a quick drink or a delicious meal, and experience the true spirit of Denver’s coolest neighborhood. 

The one place you absolutely have to check out is The Denver Central Market (map), with a market hall offering a diverse range of shops and food stalls. You’ll find another amazing food hall at Zeppelin Station (map), where you can try dishes from many different cuisines from around the world. 

However, if you’re looking for places to spend a night out, the Larimer Lounge has amazing music shows, while the ReelWorks Denver and The Mission Ballroom host concerts and other cool events. Finally, if you want to find a spot to have a drink in a relaxed atmosphere, my top recommendation is Blue Moon Brewing Company (map). This incredible brewery with eclectic decor serves delicious American food and craft beers.

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: A historic hotel's red brick exterior with glowing signage, a boutique bedroom with striped wallpaper, and a casual toast with handcrafted cocktails in a vibrant setting.

The Ramble Hotel is an upscale boutique hotel with a large terrace offering great city views, an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine, and a gym. All of the rooms have a private bathroom stocked with free toiletries and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, while some of the rooms also boast a balcony and/or garden views. 

Other accommodation options in RiNo

Mid-range
A sleek hotel room with a large bed, dark wood headboard, white linens, and a workstation

With a fitness center, a bar, and free bikes, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, room service, and luggage storage

budget
Inviting living room with vibrant red sofas, eclectic wall art, and a unique coffee table filled with colorful marble

An aparthotel offering access to a seasonal swimming pool, a shared lounge, a terrace, and a business center

airbnb
A quaint kitchenette with retro teal cabinets, white countertops, and a colorful striped rug

A 2-bedroom, pet-friendly apartment that can accommodate up to 4 people, with eclectic design and exposed brick walls

Things to do in RiNo

  • Walk around the neighborhood and admire the street art
  • Explore The Denver Central Market
  • Attend a live music show at the Larimer Lounge 
  • See a concert at the ReelWorks Denver or The Mission Ballroom
  • Spend a relaxing evening at Blue Moon Brewing Company
  • Embark on a RiNo food tour
  • Have a delicious meal at the Zeppelin Station food court
  • Pay a visit to the Forney Museum of Transportation

4. Cherry Creek – top area for a luxury experience

Aerial view of a downtown cityscape with high-rise buildings, green spaces, and a train passing through, highlighting urban development and transportation

Cherry Creek is located Southwest of the downtown area (about a 10-min car ride away). This is an upscale residential neighborhood and it’s one of the most popular spots for luxury travelers interested in world-class dining and high-end accommodation!

However, even though the neighborhood is more oriented toward high-end visitors, it can accommodate all types of travelers – you can stay here even if you’re traveling on a tight budget.

This area is the best place for mountain views in central Denver – on a clear day, you can see the full range of the Rocky Mountains. However, even though you can see the mountains from the city, I highly recommend planning a day trip to the Rockies – it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the city center, and the trip is definitely worth the effort.

TIP: if you’re looking for more cool places to visit near Denver, I recommend checking out the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge. It’s situated just 10 miles /16 km Northeast of the city center and is home to more than 300 species of wild animals. 

Cherry Creek is also a great place for hiking, seeing as it is the starting point of the Cherry Creek Trail (see trail map), a relatively easy hiking trail that’s quite popular among runners, cyclists, and bird watchers, so expect to encounter a lot of people on your hike.

Once you’ve had your fair share of nature, it’s time to indulge in the luxury offered in the area, and there’s no better place for it than the Cherry Creek Shopping Center (map). This mall features a variety of designer stores and cool eateries, so you can easily spend your entire day here. 

In case you still have some time left over, I’ll direct you Southwest of the neighborhood towards Washington Park (map), another residential area centered around a sprawling park with a lake, tennis courts, a playground, and the ideal place to relax and unwind after a long day. 

From here, you can continue moving South until you reach the campus of the University of Denver (map) – even if you’re not a prospective student, the campus is a great place to visit for its tree-lined walkways and serene atmosphere.

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: An elegant dining area with modern lighting, a luxurious room with floor-to-ceiling windows and city views, and a spacious living room with a comfortable seating area.

The Jacquard is the place to book if you want to enjoy a rooftop bar and an indoor pool, stunning rooms, free Wi-Fi, a free breakfast, and more! The hotel is conveniently located near many trendy bars, and the best restaurants in Cherry Creek, and the staff is super friendly and helpful with anything you need during your stay.

Other accommodation options in Cherry Creek

MID-RANGE
A trendy outdoor rooftop lounge with wooden decking, cozy seating around a fire pit, and string lights

Offering an onsite restaurant, fitness center, bar, and even a nightclub, Moxy is a great place to enjoy your vacation

BUDGET
Simple hotel room with a king-sized bed covered in a bold red and gold patterned comforter

A 1950s-style motel with family rooms, a 24/7 front desk, free parking and free Wi-Fi

AIRBNB
Modern residential home with a unique combination of curved and straight architectural lines, featuring a front entry staircase

Stay in a private room in a shared room and have access to a private bathroom and shared spaces

Things to do in Cherry Creek

  • Hike along the Cherry Creek trail
  • Plan a day trip to the Rocky Mountains
  • Have dinner at the amazing Cherry Creek Grill
  • Have a shopping spree at Cherry Creek Shopping Center
  • Visit the Cherry Creek State Park (map)
  • Go on a relaxing walk at Pulaski Park (map)

5. Capitol Hill – best part of Denver to stay on a budget

The majestic Colorado State Capitol building with its golden dome, surrounded by green trees and a well-kept lawn, symbolizing government and architecture

Capitol Hill is one of the best areas to stay in if you want to explore Denver on a tight budget due to the large number of affordable accommodations. Situated 2 miles (3 km) Southeast of LoDo, the Capitol Hill area is largely residential, lined with mansions and stately homes, as well as quirky shops that give the area its bohemian vibe

The Capitol Hill neighborhood got its name from the well-known Colorado State Capitol building (map), one of the area’s main landmarks. It is situated within Civic Center Park, which is part of the larger Golden Triangle Creative District. 

Some other important landmarks in Capitol Hill are the Molly Brown House Museum (dedicated to the survivor of the RMS Titanic), and the History Colorado Center, an interactive museum that shows exhibits dedicated to the state’s history.

During your stay in Capitol Hill, you should venture out and explore outside the borders of the neighborhood. Head East to Cheesman Park and visit the stunning Denver Botanic Gardens, home to thousands of plants from all over the world. 

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: A serene balcony with wooden lounge chairs, a charming blue-striped bedroom with a welcoming 'Bienvenue' sign, and a classic styled den with leather furniture

A short walk away from the Colorado State Capitol, this 4-star hotel is situated in a restored chateau and is decorated with French-inspired, historic details. All the rooms at this hotel are non-smoking and feature flat-screen TVs with cable access and iPod docking stations, and some of them even have a private spa bath.

Other accommodation options in Capitol Hill

MID-RANGE
Hotel room with a cozy sitting area, showcasing a gray sofa, armchair, and circular coffee tables, with city views

This higher-end hostel is one of the best in North America, with an on-site hot tub and clean, comfortable rooms

BUDGET
Bright and airy hotel lobby with eclectic seating including orange leather chairs and green velvet ottomans on a colorful area rug

Offering accommodation in both private rooms and shared dorms, the hostel has friendly staff and a 24/7 front desk

AIRBNB
Bedroom with a large bed covered in a red and white geometric-patterned comforter, a window with blinds, and a 'Union Station' themed wall art

Rent a private bedroom with a comfortable bed and have access to shared spaces in the home

Things to do in Capitol Hill

  • Visit the gold-domed Colorado State Capitol 
  • Pay a visit to the Molly Brown House Museum and the History Colorado Center
  • Spend a few hours exploring the Denver Botanic Gardens
  • Have a delicious, plant-based meal at City O’ City (map)

6. Uptown Denver – amazing spot for cool activities

The Civic Center Park in Denver during twilight with snow patches on the ground, the Greek amphitheater and several high-rise buildings in the backdrop

Uptown Denver or North Capitol Hill, located a few steps east of the Central Business District, is characterized by its combination of old and new, a mishmash of historic buildings and brick rowhouses, trendy restaurants, upscale condos, and buildings.

Thanks to all these landscapes, this neighborhood offers a relaxed but vibrant atmosphere for all travelers looking to discover the local vibe of Mile High City.

The focal points of interest in the neighborhood are the Fillmore Auditorium, an intimate concert hall, and the Ogden Theatre, a historic concert venue dating back to 1919. I highly recommend you check what’s on at both of these venues and get your hands on some tickets – it will make your Denver experience truly unforgettable. 

Your next stop should be the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (map), an impressive 19th-century Catholic cathedral with beautiful stained glass windows. And since North Capitol Hill is a smaller neighborhood, you won’t find that many attractions within the area. 

Luckily, Uptown is within walking distance (30-40 min walk) City Park (map), a large green space that’s home to Denver Zoo and Denver Museum of Nature and Science – both worth a visit. So, I suggest you spend a whole day in City Park, exploring the zoo and the museum, and then watching the sunset over the Rocky Mountains from one of the park’s benches.

If you want to see more of the wider Denver area, head to Central Park (Northeast of Uptown), a quieter neighborhood situated on the site of a former airport. If you’re traveling as a family, be sure to take the kids to the Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park, a huge indoor trampoline park—no kid will say no to that! 

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: A grand hotel lobby with a vintage aesthetic, a nighttime street view of the hotel's curved architecture, and a contemporary bedroom with sophisticated decor and a window cityscape.

Guests at the Brown Palace Hotel will enjoy a spa and 3 different on-site restaurants, so you can choose between upscale dining or a more laid-back atmosphere and cuisine. All rooms at the Brown Palace Hotel are elegantly decorated and feature all the necessary comforts for a relaxing stay.

Other accommodation options in Uptown Denver

Mid-range
Exterior of a multi-story hotel with American flags

A comfortable, pet-friendly hotel offering a year-round hot tub and indoor pool, as well as free breakfast

Budget
Elegant dining area in a home with hardwood floors, a large dining table set for six, and an open kitchen layout

This adults-only B&B offers a full daily breakfast free of charge, free self-parking, and air-conditioned, comfortable rooms

budget
A well-lit modern bedroom with a queen-sized bed, contemporary artwork and a window with a view

Super close to amazing restaurants and bars, the penthouse has a comfortable bedroom, a spacious living room, and full kitchen

Things to do in Uptown Denver

  • Attend a concert at the Fillmore Auditorium or at the Ogden Theatre
  • Pay a visit to the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
  • Have a classic American meal at the retro-style diner Steuben’s Uptown (map)
  • Explore Denver’s largest green space, City Park
  • Take a few hours to explore the Denver Zoo
  • Visit the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

7. LoHi (Lower Highland) – where to stay in Denver with family

View of downtown Denver with various buildings and architectural styles, seen from a street with traffic signs indicating Boulder and Colfax avenues

Lower Highland, commonly referred to as LoHi, is a laid-back neighborhood situated 1.4 miles / 2 km Northwest of Union Station. The area abounds with restaurants, cafes, and interesting shops, so you’ll always find something to do here – especially if you’re traveling with kids. 

As soon as you arrive and settle into the neighborhood, I suggest you go for a treat. The Little Man Ice Cream (map) serves delicious homemade ice cream in many, many unique flavors – choosing just one will be difficult! 

However, if you’re looking for a spot where you can have a full meal, then seek out the Avanti Food & Beverage court. Here, you can choose from a variety of different options, but I also recommend grabbing a drink at the amazing rooftop bar at this complex. 

Looking for more family-friendly activities? If so, I suggest you venture outside the neighborhood – head South to the Downtown Aquarium, which houses more than 500 animal species and boasts a great restaurant. Then, continue the adventure at the Elitch Gardens amusement park, and try out different arcade games and thrill rides. Moving on South, you’ll come across the Children’s Museum of Denver and the Empower Field at Mile High (map), the stadium that’s home to the city’s NFL team, the Denver Broncos. If you plan accordingly, you can even see the Broncos playing on home court!

Luxury hotel
A collage of three hotel photos to stay in Denver: A dining room with panoramic windows and rustic decor, an art-filled lounge with eclectic furnishings, and a bedroom featuring bold blue walls and curated artwork.

This 4-star hotel provides lodging in stylish rooms and has an on-site restaurant serving American cuisine, a bar, and a front desk open 24/7. Some of the other amenities available at the hotel are air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and daily housekeeping.

Other accommodation options in Highland

MID-RANGE
Hotel room featuring a large bed with a tan headboard, coordinated drapery, and contemporary furniture

With comfortable family rooms, an indoor heated pool, fitness center, and a great breakfast, this hotel is an amazing choice

BUDGET
Modern exterior of a hotel with blue and gray facade under a clear blue sky

If you want access to a pool, a fitness center, and enjoy a complimentary breakfast, this is a great choice

AIRBNB
Eclectic living room with a leather sofa, vibrant artwork, and a vintage-style chest serving as a coffee table

Originally a working art studio turned into a beautiful Airbnb with art decorations and spacious rooms

Things to do in Highland

  • Try the homemade ice cream at Little Man Ice Cream
  • Take the kids to the Downtown Aquarium and Elitch Gardens
  • Have a delicious lunch at Avanti Food & Beverage
  • Explore the City of Cuernavaca Park (map)
  • Spend your day at the Children’s Museum of Denver
  • Catch a game at the Empower Field at Mile High Stadium

8. South Broadway (SoBo) – where to stay for foodies

A bustling city street scene on South Broadway with vehicles, a pedestrian, and a Walgreens store sign displaying the date '07/13/19' and time '2:15'

One of the best neighborhoods to stay in while visiting Denver is South Broadway, known as SoBo. It’s located 3 miles / 5 km South of LoDo, and it’s a very hip place, full of cool eateries and bars, all lined across the length of South Broadway Avenue. 

One of the best-known places on South Broadway is Punch Bowl Social (map), a dining and entertainment venue where you can find activities such as bowling, darts, billiards, marbles, table tennis, shuffleboard, vintage arcade games, and karaoke to spend a joyful evening.

You can also check out the other smaller places on South Broadway; I’m sure you will find something perfect for whatever you are craving at the time. I really like the look of Atomic Cowboy, a dining venue that houses both Denver Biscuit Co. and Fat Sully’s NY Pizza – both are worth a try, but maybe not on the same day. 

If you want to do some sightseeing and you don’t mind venturing a couple of blocks away from SoBo, then you should pay a visit to the International Church of Cannabis (map), which is actually a social center situated in a former Lutheran church. The interior is very cool, and there are hourly light shows. 

Note that in this area, there are not many hotel options – especially not luxury ones – and most of the accommodations in SoBo are apartment rentals, but if you think this is the perfect area for your stay, here are the best options:

Other accommodation options in SoBo

mid-range
Cozy living room with a plush dark gray sofa set, black coffee table, and decorative wall art

This 3-bedroom house is conveniently located in central Denver and features a bath, a kitchen, and an outdoor space

budget
Spacious and rustic bedroom with a queen-sized bed, hardwood floors, and a faux cowhide rug

Guests at this B&B will enjoy a daily American breakfast and benefit from free parking and Wi-Fi

airbnb
Quaint blue-gray house with white trim, red door, and a picket fence surrounded by lush greenery

This suite has a spacious bedroom with a queen bed, a living area with a sofa, and a fully-equipped kitchen

Things to do in SoBo

  • Spend a fun evening at the Punch Bowl Social
  • Grab some drinks at Adrift (map)
  • Have a hearty meal at the Atomic Cowboy
  • Don’t miss the Colorado brews at TRVE Brewing Company (map)
  • Pay a visit to the International Church of Cannabis
  • Visit Corvus Coffee Roasters (map) to enjoy a drink in their friendly industrial-chic shop
👑 Luxury price:US$270
💵 Mid-range:US$160
🛏️ Budget:US$110
📍 Best neighborhood:LoDo
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:The Rally Hotel
💵 Best mid-range hotel:Hilton Garden Inn
👛 Best budget hotel:Kasa Union Station

BONUS: Best hotels near Denver International Airport

Interior of Denver International Airport with travelers at security checkpoint and a large American flag hanging overhead.

Denver International Airport (DEN) is the main airport of the city and the place where you’ll be landing if you’re arriving in the city by plane.

The airport is located 23 miles / 37 km from Downtown, which is quite some distance (40 minutes by car), so booking a hotel room that’s close to the airport might save you some precious time and sleep if you have a very early/late flight.

If you decide to do so, here are the 3 best Denver airport hotels (one for each type of budget):

  • The Westin Denver International Airport ($$$) – situated at Denver airport, the Westin provides a luxury experience; there are 3 restaurants, room service, an indoor swimming pool, and concierge services. 
  • Element Denver International Airport ($$) – this is a great mid-range option, just 0.6 miles / 1 km away from the airport, offering a free airport shuttle to all its guests, as well as an indoor pool, barbecue facilities, and free private parking. 
  • Nile Haven ($) – if you’re looking for budget accommodation near the airport, this property is located 7 miles / 11 km from the airport and offers free parking and comfortable, air-conditioned rooms with access to shared bathrooms. 

BONUS 2: Best hotels in Denver for couples

The 'Dancers' sculpture at the Denver Performing Arts Complex at night, with the building's illuminated facade creating a whimsical backdrop

With a backdrop of the sublime Rocky Mountains or the glimmering Denver skyline, surrounded by historic buildings and some of the best restaurants in the state, the city has endless opportunities for romancing your significant other.

So, if you’re planning a couples’ getaway to Denver, here are the most romantic hotels in the city:

  • The Crawford Hotel ($$$) – a short walk from the iconic Union Station, The Crawford Hotel is recognizable for its historic design and features comfortable rooms, a bar, and a restaurant perfect for a romantic dinner. 
  • Hotel Clio ($$$) – situated in the Cherry Creek neighborhood, this upscale hotel boasts a 24-hour fitness center, an award-winning restaurant with a creative menu, and a patio with a fire pit – a great spot for a date! 
  • The Art Hotel ($$$) – an upscale boutique hotel on Broadway Street near the Denver Art Museum. During your stay at the Art Hotel Denver, you can enjoy the on-site bar, or head to the restaurant and make the most of the daily cocktail hour.

FAQs about where to stay in Denver

A colossal blue bear sculpture peering curiously into a glass-walled convention center, set against the backdrop of a bustling Denver street with taxis and buses.

📍 What is the best area to stay in Denver?

If you are visiting Denver for the first time, I recommend staying in LoDo, the Lower Downtown area of the city. Here, you’ll find attractions like Larimer Square and Coors Field, as well as amazing hotels such as The Rally Hotel and the Hilton Garden Inn.

⚠️ Is it safe to walk in Denver?

Denver is a safe place to visit and walk around. However, you need to take some precautions, such as keeping to well-lighted, populated areas and being aware of your surroundings at all times.

🚃 How do I get around in Denver?

Everything in Denver is within walking distance, but you can also rent a car, and there are various transportation options to get you around the city, such as rail, bus, bike, and more.

⛄ When does the snow start in Denver?

In Denver, it can start snowing as early as October and keep snowing until April or May.

🚶‍♂️ Where to stay in Denver without a car?

The best neighborhood to stay in without a car is LoDo in downtown Denver, as there are plenty of attractions within walking distance, and you’ll also have easy access to public transportation.

⏳ Where to stay in Denver for a weekend?

Downtown Denver is the best part to stay in to experience the city’s vibrant culture, diverse dining options, and easily accessible attractions. You can choose either LoDo or CBD – both are great options if your time in the city is limited. 

👪 What part of Denver should you stay in with kids?

The best area for staying with kids is LoHi, i.e., the Lower Highland. You’ll find many family-friendly restaurants and great family hotels like the Life House and the Hampton Inn, and you’ll have access to attractions like the Downtown Aquarium and Elitch Gardens.

🌃 Is downtown Denver safe at night for tourists?

Generally, downtown Denver is safe at night for tourists, but it’s always wise to stay in well-lit areas, be aware of your surroundings, and follow common safety precautions.

📅 How many days should I stay in Denver?

I recommend staying in Denver for at least 3 days, which should be enough time to see the main attractions like the Denver Art Museum and the Denver Botanic Gardens and get a sense of the city’s culture. 

❌ Where should I not stay in Denver?

Some of the areas you should avoid in Denver include City Park and Five Points. Both of these are a bit far from the city center and have higher rates of street crime. 

💯 What is the best time to go to Denver?

The best time for visiting Denver is between April and May or September and October when the weather’s not too hot and the tourist crowds are not as large as in summer.

⛰️ Where to stay in Denver for hiking?

The best area of Denver for hiking is Cherry Creek, which provides easy access to Cherry Creek Trail. The top hotels for your stay here are The Jacquard, Autograph Collection, and the Moxy Denver

💸 What is the most expensive part of Denver?

Cherry Creek is one of the most expensive Denver neighborhoods for tourists and residents alike. Hotel prices can be a bit higher, but there’s still a good choice of budget-friendly hotels and apartment rentals, so this shouldn’t turn you away from staying here. 

Conclusion

Nighttime panorama of downtown Denver, featuring illuminated buildings and busy streets, showcasing the city's vibrant nightlife

Yay, you have reached the end of my complete guide on where to stay in Denver! Hopefully, you’ve already decided on an area and started making hotel reservations. 

Even if you haven’t decided yet, no need to fret! To make things even easier for you, these are my top 2 hotels in LoDo, Denver:

  • The Rally Hotel – an upscale boutique hotel with a pool and 2 amazing restaurants
  • Hilton Garden Inn – a very comfortable hotel with a snack bar and a great gym

Don’t forget to book your hotel in Denver in advance because many people visit this city and all the top hotels are constantly selling out! 

Are you heading to Denver soon? Do you have any other questions or concerns? Let me know in the comments below, and I’ll gladly help!

Happy travels,

Hristina

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One Response

  1. Suze 04.07.2022 at 21:52

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