Historic Stays to Travel Back in Time

Hidden speakeasies and healing hot springs—these storied retreats turn Colorado’s past into a present-day escape.

The pool at Hotel 1888.
Photo courtesy of Hotel 1888.

Hotel 1888

Hotel 1888 brings new life to Glenwood Springs’ historic Stone Bath House, just steps from the world’s largest hot springs pool. The 16-room boutique retreat blends vintage charm with modern comfort, showcasing historic artifacts alongside luxe details. Guests enjoy complimentary poolside breakfast, unlimited soaking in mineral pools, and access to the award-winning Athletic Club. With suites overlooking the Grand Pool or Colorado River, Hotel 1888 offers a timeless, restorative Rocky Mountain escape.

The lobby of Hotel St. Cloud.
Photo courtesy of Ground2Air Productions.

Hotel St. Cloud

In the heart of Cañon City—once dubbed the “Hollywood of Colorado”—Hotel St. Cloud blends Western heritage with modern elegance. Built in 1886, the Second Empire-style landmark features 36 renovated rooms, a historic eatery serving frontier fare like trout, salmon and bison, and The War Room, a speakeasy-style lounge with seasonal martinis. Just minutes from the Royal Gorge Bridge, it offers guests a stay steeped in history and surrounded by Southern Colorado’s dramatic natural beauty.

People ride horses through field.
Photo courtesy of Tumbling River Ranch.

Tumbling River Ranch

Set on 100 acres of Pike National Forest at an elevation of 9,200 feet, Tumbling River Ranch has welcomed guests since 1946—just an hour from Denver, near Guanella Pass, yet worlds away. Fresh from a $7 million renovation, its log cabins pair Old West charm with modern comforts like fireplaces, porches, and new luxurious beds. Open year-round, the all-inclusive retreat serves meals from scratch and offers seasonal adventures and starlit evenings—proof the spirit of the West still runs strong.

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Discover more to do near these historic stays in the print issue of Denver Life Magazine, available at local newsstands, or subscribe to the digital version.