Hotel Boulderado is a remarkable establishment located in the heart of downtown Boulder, Colorado, that offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and contemporary luxury. Since its inception in 1909, this historic landmark has been an integral part of the community. The hotel seamlessly combines its rich history with modern amenities to ensure that every guest has an unforgettable experience.
Arriving at the Hotel Boulderado
As soon as you enter the grand entrance of Hotel Boulderado, you are transported back in time to an era of refined sophistication. I highly recommend using their valet parking service when you arrive. It’s a fast, efficient, and stress-free way to park downtown. During our visit in late April 2024, my partner and I were enchanted by the hotel’s Victorian architecture, adorned with intricate details and rich woodwork, which is a reflection of its grand past.
Hotel Boulderado Accommodations
We had the pleasure of staying in the Historic King Suite for two nights which is a Victorian-style room that exudes space and elegance. The suite features a king bed, traditional Victorian décor, an oversized seating area with a full-size sleeper sofa, premium bedding and linens, premium HD cable channels, and a luxurious modern bathroom. There is also a second granite-top vanity, Plush Boca bathrobes, Aveda bath products, and desks (in case you are working) in the room. If you are curious about the space, it is approximately 550 to 600 square feet. Additionally, modern amenities such as a mini fridge, complimentary water, a coffee maker, and a lockbox for personal items were available.
@lexpaigeandtheodore Step back in time staying at the Hotel Boulderado. 🖤 #hotelboulderado #colorado #foryou #fyp #hiddengems #coloradoadventures #hotelroom #bouldercolorado
Our Hotel Room
As I walked into my room, I was struck by the cozy and inviting atmosphere that surrounded me. The thoughtful details, such as the chocolates on my pillow and the vintage reading material, made me feel transported in time. The room had an amazing view of the city and mountains. For those who enjoy a touch of history, you’ll be delighted to know that only 42 rooms are available with a Victorian flair, showcasing a bygone era of extravagance. These rooms are so popular that they tend to book up quickly, so plan if this is your preferred style.
If you’re looking for something more modern, the North Wing offers 114 completely updated rooms and suites. Featuring nature-inspired artwork and a soothing atmosphere, these rooms are the perfect place to unwind after a long day. Whether you prefer the traditional elegance of the historic rooms or the contemporary charm of the North Wing, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodations for your stay.
Our experience at this hotel was exceptional. The room was well-appointed, and the bed was incredibly comfortable. Despite the unfavorable weather, we appreciated the spaciousness of the room and the variety of entertainment options available. It’s important to note that the hotel is located in a bustling downtown area. If you’re sensitive to noise, it’s recommended to request a room that doesn’t face the street. On weekends, the area can get quite lively due to college crowds and traffic, so keep this in mind when making your reservation.
Things to Explore at Hotel Boulderado
One of the highlights of this magnificent hotel is its self-guided tour. It will take you on a journey through time. You’ll explore the 3rd floor of the historic wing of Hotel Boulderado with the help of a brochure that contains fascinating information about historical artifacts. As you embark on this tour, you’ll be amazed by the ornate drinking fountain that features pure cold water from the Arapahoe Glacier owned by Boulder. This was my favorite artifact! You will learn that the city of Boulder purchased a watershed of dammed-up lakes fed by the Arapahoe Glacier. After the pipeline was installed it brought “99.996% pure” water into town. This is one of the only spots where you can see this little piece of history.
@lexpaigeandtheodore Spruce Farm & Fish is a must-try spot for great drinks and food! #sprucefarmandfish #hotelboulderado #thingstodocolorado #coloradocheck #foryou #fyp
Eats & More
If you’re a foodie, then you’re in for a treat at Hotel Boulderado. The hotel’s culinary offerings are simply outstanding, with several dining options that showcase the finest local and seasonal ingredients. There is the Corner Bar which is a casual pub atmosphere and in the morning you can enjoy the Boxcar Coffee Bar in the lobby. As for us, Spruce Farm & Fish took the cake as our personal favorite. This farm-to-table restaurant boasts an exceptional menu that creatively utilizes the highest quality ingredients from local farmers, artisans, and ranchers. We dined at Spruce Farm & Fish on Saturday night.
Spruce Farm & Fish at Hotel Boulderado
We started our meal by ordering drinks. One of them was a vodka Blackberry Splash, which was the perfect accompaniment to the chicken and waffle sliders that had a maple raspberry glaze. They were sweet and savory and made for a great starter. For our main course, my significant other ordered the Mountain Trout, and I opted for the Cab 7-ounce Angus beef filet mignon. Overall the trout was delicious with a flavorful glaze, while the beef was perfectly cooked and accompanied by excellent asparagus.
For dessert, I went for the Black Forest Buzz. This is a luxurious cocktail made with Breckenridge Bourbon, Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, and Cherry Heering Liqueur. It’s blended with rich half-and-half, bitter chocolate, and half-and-half topped with a dollop of velvety whipped cream. Before you drink, be sure to mix to combine all the flavors. I couldn’t resist taking sip after sip of this decadent concoction.
After dinner, we headed down to the historic elegance of The License No. 1 bar. This is an intimate speakeasy underground setting where you can savor classic cocktails. We ordered a Penicillin and a Miyabi Sidecar which includes Apple & Pear Brandy, Lychee Soju, Guava Liqueur, and shishito-lemongrass-citrus cordial. The space’s decor and ambiance captivate visitors, making it a must-see destination. Don’t forget to take pictures in the photo booth, which costs only $6 and serves as a great souvenir. If you enjoy comedy, Hotel Boulderado offers comedy shows downstairs. Keep in mind that the venue opens only on specific days of the week, so you should check the schedule before planning your visit.
Commitment to Sustainability
Hotel Boulderado commits to sustainability. They use energy-efficient lighting and take part in water conservation measures that are impressive even for a desert. To ensure freshness, they source their foods from local suppliers. Hotel Boulderado values sustainability and environmental responsibility. By staying there, you can contribute to preserving the natural beauty of Boulder. As someone who always prioritizes sustainability, I highly recommend Hotel Boulderado for your next stay.
Final Thoughts
Hotel Boulderado is a timeless and iconic destination in the ever-changing world of hospitality. It seamlessly blends historic charm with modern comfort. Trust me, if you plan to visit Boulder, Colorado, you don’t want to miss out on staying at Hotel Boulderado. People from all over the world have been coming here for over a century and it’s easy to see why. It’s the perfect place to make unforgettable memories and have a truly amazing time. You can start planning your visit by clicking here. If you do visit, the staff would love to see your favorite photos taken during your stay. Follow them on Instagram and don’t forget to use the hashtag #HotelBoulderado. Happy traveling!
With Love,
Lex Paige
