Deciding where to stay in Denver? We’ve gathered the capital’s coolest neighborhoods, from trendy Lower Downtown to luxe Cherry Creek (as well as a few of our favorite hotels).
Read on to check out the best places to stay in Denver, and when you’re done, why not connect with a Fora Advisor to help you plan your travel to Colorado?
Advisors take the stress out of the booking process for the same price you’d pay when booking alone. Even better, when you book with an advisor, they can hook you up with awesome hotel perks and travel tips — like the best times to visit Colorado — to make your trip that much better.
The 5 best areas to stay in Denver, from LoDo to LoHi
Denver isn’t just one of the most unique places to stay in Colorado because it’s the state’s capital and biggest city — it’s also a cultural Mecca in America’s Midwest. Likewise, figuring out where to stay in Denver can be tough because there’s so much to see and do.
Here are five of the best places to stay in Denver, along with a few hotel recommendations.
1. Lower Downtown (aka LoDo) & the Central Business District: the best areas to stay in Denver for nightlife
Cool neighborhoods like LoDo and the Central Business District (which is a lot more exciting than its name makes it sound), make Denver one of the best places to stay in Colorado.
LoDo, in particular, features tons of high-energy bars and restaurants. This is where to stay in Denver if you want to get out and dance. Meanwhile, the Central Business District offers more casual fun — think sports games, easy dining and the like.
Both neighborhoods are conveniently located near the center of Denver, too, so everything is easily accessible.
The best places to stay in LoDo: Four Seasons Denver, Grand Hyatt Denver & Kimpton Hotel Born
Many of the top boutique hotels in Denver are found in LoDo, like the Four Seasons Denver, Grand Hyatt and Kimpton Hotel Born. The Thompson Denver is also worth mentioning.
These are all top-notch choices, so if you’re having a hard time choosing between them, remember that a Fora travel advisor can help you decide (and book) whichever hotel best fits your plans. And advisors aren’t limited to Denver, either. They can help you — or your company — decide where to stay in Vail (a weekend getaway to Vail is a blast), Aspen or just about anywhere.
2. Capitol Hill: where to stay in Denver for variety
Capitol Hill has a relatively more relaxed, bohemian vibe compared to LoDo. You’ll still find plenty of nice bars, restaurants and nightlife-friendly venues, especially for concerts.
Overall, a sample of just about everything the city has to offer can be found in Capitol Hill, so it’s one of the best places to stay in Denver for variety. Plus, its central location makes traveling anywhere else in the city a breeze.
3. River North (aka RiNo): where to stay in Denver for trendy art galleries & breweries
The River North Art District, or RiNo, lives up to its name with vibrant streets and plenty of hip breweries and coffee shops. Here, urban industrial styles meld with artistic charm for a unique Denver experience. This is where to stay in Denver if you want a low-key hang-out spot when you’re not exploring the city at large.
Chat with a Colorado travel advisor for tips on the best hotels in River North, or anywhere in Colorado, like the top boutique hotels in Aspen — skiing in Aspen then chilling out in RiNo doesn’t sound like a bad Colorado bachelorette party idea, does it? Our Aspen winter and summer itineraries have more ideas, too, so don’t be shy about getting in touch.
4. Cherry Creek: the best place to stay in Denver for upscale shopping & dining
Full of unique boutiques, lavish spas and fine art galleries, Cherry Creek is made for the luxury traveler. If you’re looking for the best area to stay in Denver for luxe shopping and gourmet dining, this is it.
Accommodations in Cherry Creek are a little slim, but a Fora Advisor can help you find the right hotel.
5. Lower Highland (aka LoHi): where to stay in Denver for families
Moderate energy with loads of fun restaurants, shops and cool Victorian neighborhoods make Lower Highlands arguably the best place to stay in Denver for families. You’re out of the hustle and bustle of Downtown Denver but there’s still plenty to do here.
Locals will also tell you that LoHi is a great place for foodies, particularly those looking for a more casual setting.
The only downside is that the neighborhood’s removal from the downtown area makes it less convenient for exploring the city. However, the location does make it easier to explore Denver’s gorgeous natural surroundings (like Rocky Mountain National Park, for instance).
The best place to stay in LoHi: Life House, Lower Highlands
At Life House, Lower Highlands, the Old West meets early-1900s Victorian decor for a classy style with lavish furnishings. Chat with an advisor for the full scoop and potential freebies, like room upgrades and more.
Where to stay in Denver: FAQs
What’s the best part of Denver to stay in?
It really depends on what you want to do, but generally, any of the central neighborhoods are both exciting and easily traversable. An advisor can help you plan travel between neighborhoods, and help you decide where to stay in Denver.
What are the safest areas to stay in Denver?
Denver is one of the safest cities in the United States. However, as with any travel to a new place, it’s wise to exercise caution. All of the central neighborhoods (including those mentioned above) are considered very safe.
Is Downtown Denver walkable?
While Denver may not be as walkable as New York or Las Vegas (you can easily check out the most famous Vegas landmarks by foot), you can certainly walk around all the central neighborhoods.
Decide where to stay in Denver with the help of a Fora Advisor
Don’t let figuring out where to stay in Denver, Colorado cause you trouble. Let a Fora Advisor handle the heavy lifting so you can focus on your awesome Colorado vacation (free perks and upgrades included).
As mentioned, advisors can help you no matter what you’re looking for, whether it’s one of the best places to stay in Telluride (one of the United States’ best ski towns), a stellar Colorado resort for families or something completely different, like the most unique places to stay in Spain. We've got you there — and anywhere else — too.