What it is

A gleaming 202-room retreat with a high-tech spa and steakhouse inspired by Broncos legend John Elway.

What it isn't

Teensy. Guest rooms here are reportedly the largest in the entire city, starting at 540 square feet.

What we think

If you’re hankering to be indulged, the Ritz-Carlton Denver pampers guests more than any other hotel in the Front Range. Each just-revamped room is fitted with featherbeds and down comforters wrapped in 400-thread-count linens; marble bathrooms with rainforest showers; Frette terry robes for lounging; in-room cappuccino makers; and a long list of complimentary services, including overnight shoeshines, coffee, and access to the fitness center, futuristic enough for the Jetsons (including a Mirror that streams on-demand classes). If you’re hosting a crowd, upgrade to a Luxury Suite—at 2,473 square feet they’re the largest in town, and come with a dining room worthy of Martha Stewart herself.

You're here because

They adore their youngests guests; kids get their own check-in, complete with a scavenger hunt and activities book. Want to give them a thoroughly Coloradan stay? Book a Ritz Kids City Camper experience and they’ll have an in-room tent, lantern, S’mores cupcake and more.

The Moment

You have to giggle a bit when you eye the menu in the 6,000-square-foot spa: it’s as “locavore” as they come, including CBD massages and craft beer hydration. After a quick moment of repose in the steam room, you opt for an oxygen facial—and 80 minutes later, you could swear you’ve never looked younger (well, not in 10 years, at least.)

Restaurants & Bars

Elway's Downtown - Upscale steakhouse named after NFL hall of famer John Elway

The Lobby Lounge - Morning coffee corner offering a grab-and-go style menu

Elway's Downtown - Cocktails and savory selections from the grill

Location

In downtown Denver, just a five block walk from Coors Field and two from the bars and boutiques of Larimer Street. It’s well worth a stroll across the river through Confluence Park to see REI (yes, REI), housed in a red brick former train station with a towering rock wall.