Next to the rushing waters of Clear Creek in the quaint downtown, the award-winning Golden Hotel is a surprising gem of a boutique Colorado escape in the Rocky Mountain foothills, just 12 miles from downtown Denver. In the shadow of Mt. Zion and Lookout Mountain, the hotel’s prime location is on the pedestrian-friendly Washington Street in Golden’s historic downtown filled with museums, shops and restaurants, and within walking distance of one of the world’s largest breweries, Coors.
Located next to Clear Creek, the Golden Hotel is an escape to the foothills of Denver.
Arrival
The heart of this historic town is its 4-block Washington Street, and you’ll follow the shop-lined streets to the essence of the community, Clear Creek, where miners first discovered gold back in 1859. The Golden Hotel is perched on the bank of the creek, and free parking is located off the main street besides the hotel.
The Golden Hotel’s beautiful Lobby is a nod to the city’s Old West roots
The 4-story hotel’s lobby is a nod to the city’s Old West roots, with a mountain lodge décor and a welcoming stone fireplace, sitting area next to the reception desk, and my personal favorite, the horse feature. With just 62 rooms, there’s rarely a wait at the reception desk, and I’ve always been greeted quickly and within 5 minutes had my room key in hand. For those needing late night or quick snacks, next to the reception desk is the Market, offering miscellaneous sundries and snacks for purchase.
Accommodations
This is another Colorado hotel where I’ve had the pleasure of staying several times. We always opt to climb the old-fashioned winding staircase to our rooms, although there is an elevator available.
Climb the winding staircase to look down on the welcoming lobby of the Golden Hotel.
Choose from several room configurations: Deluxe King, Deluxe with 2 Queens, Executive/Family Room and Creekside Suite. All rooms are comfortable and spacious, with flat panel TV, comfortable bedding, and plush robes, and the room décor continues with mountain lodge theme enhanced by Western artwork. The mini refrigerator is an added bonus as is the work space with complimentary WiFi.
A look at the Golden Hotel’s Deluxe room and bath
Amenities
The Bridgewater Grill serves 3 meals a day, and frankly, the quality of the food is based upon the current executive chef. My last 2 visits (including a wedding of a friend) have been actually quite tasty! My favorite menu items: Fried green tomatoes, sweet corn chowder, burgers and steaks. With a creek side location, we always gravitate to the Creekside Dining, a patio featuring live music and to watch the bustle of activity at Clear Creek, including summer time’s constant flow of kayakers.
Other amenities include a fitness center and 24-hour business center with complimentary Internet access.
Golden Hotel offers On-site dining at Bridgewater Grill.
Green Initiatives
Since re-opening the property in 2004, it’s worth noting that the Golden Hotel owners, Burt & Andria Lewis, have been at the forefront of green initiatives including installation of 160 solar panels, making it the first solar powered hotel in Golden. Other green initiatives include completed enter efficiency audits, installed motion censored lighting in public restrooms, storage units and fitness room, back of house recycling program, and Wave Brand Spa dispensers.
Summary
The Golden Hotel is a beautiful Denver suburban retreat in the Rocky Mountain foothills with its prime location in downtown Golden and next to Clear Creek. You can park your car for free and explore this Old West and former Colorado Capitol by foot. There’s plenty of dining and low-key entertainment within walking distance.
Book online with Booking.com.
Photos courtesy of the Westin Westminster.
