Two Wyndham hotels in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, Colorado have a history that starts with the city’s early beginnings. The Antlers Hotel is like a phoenix that rises from the ashes to thrive.
One of The Antlers Hotel’s chandeliers
First opened in June 1883, The Antlers was considered quite modern and grand. With an hydraulic elevator, a central heat system and gas lights, the 75 guest room hotel served travelers who were drawn to the region because of the natural wonder of Pikes Peak and the Garden of the Gods. That hotel burned to the ground in 1898 and was rebuilt in 1901. The hotel’s third remake occurred in the 1960s when it was torn down to rise again in 1967 to its current rendition. The hotel’s grandness makes it one of Colorado Springs’ go to places for formal occasions like military balls and high school proms.
More than 7,500 Legos were used to create the historic Antlers Hotel
Although the current Antlers Hotel has a modern sleekness with mirrors, marble and polished wood, there is an aura of its bygone days grandness. The antler chandeliers at the entrance are reminiscent of the original hotel that housed then owner General William Jackson Palmer’s collection of deer and elk trophies. Photographs of the original hotel are part of the decor in a side hallway.
Playfulness does have a place here as well. There is a 7,500 Lego piece version of the original hotel and signage that chronicles The Antlers history. From its early days to its current version.
Over-sized, comfy furniture of contrasting fabric patterns and throw pillows in the lounge connected to the bar and restaurant are elegant and inviting.
The Piccadilly Bar in the background
The Piccadilly Bar reminded me of the Edward Hopper painting Nighthawks–not in its decor, but in its mood. Thanks to low lighting, the vibe is a bit mysterious. Classiness, however, is a main ingredient. With its extensive drink menu of 50 draft beers and signature cocktails including Singapore Sling which caught my attention, this is a bar for lingering.
Sportivo Primo Sports Bar and Restaurant
For breakfast, Antlers Grille serves up a full buffet for $15 and menu items ranging from hearty Colorado Biscuits and Gravy to swanky Lobster Benedict. The Sportivo Primo Sports Bar and Restaurant has casual to more involved menu items. Pizza, wings and burgers hold up the casual end while entrees like Chicken Francese and Pan-Seared Colorado Trout are on the fancier side.
A guestroom at The Antlers Hotel
The 273 updated guest rooms have either a mountain or a city view and are equipped with a mini fridge, free WiFi and a large flat screen TV. Premier suites include a whirlpool tub and a balcony. Whether you swim or not, head to the indoor pool for its stunning views of the mountains.
Just a few blocks from The Antlers, The Mining Exchange, a Wyndham Grand Hotel & Spa is a most wonderful illustration of re-purposing an historic building into something totally different. In 1902, the building served as a stock exchange for local mining companies. These days, it’s an aesthetically pleasing hub of overnight and day trip travelers. Its location on the same block as a coffee shop, ice cream shop, stores and an historic movie theater create a lively environment. Colorado Spring’s downtown nightlife includes close by bars and night clubs which makes either hotel a location for enjoying the city’s offerings.
The lobby and lounge of The Mining Exchange
Like The Antlers, The Mining Exchange incorporates a rich color scheme of the lounge furniture arranged in several intimate groupings. Throw pillows provide a visual and texture contrast. While The Antlers Hotel is more on the serious side of elegance, the Mining Exchange has a playful attitude.
The lobby bar at the Mining Exchange
Expansive windows of the lobby let in loads of light and the gas fireplace invites folks to sit down on the couches in front of it for a chat. Artwork in the lounge and the connected bar is hip and modern with splashes of color.
In the 117 guest rooms, exposed brick and 12-foot ceilings are prominent design features. Amenities include 42 inch flat screen TVs, free WiFi and granite topped desks. Bathrooms have two-person stone showers. Along with the Stratton Lobby Bar, the Springs Orleans Restaurant and Bar connected to the hotel through a patio walkway is a Colorado Springs favorite. Cajun and Creole food as the specialty.
Guest room with exposed brick at The Mining Exchange
This boutique hotel also has a spa with a variety of treatments that guests from The Antlers Hotel can also use.
Another feature both hotels have is a grand piano in the lounge with a sign inviting anyone who knows how to play the piano well to play.
Rates for The Antlers start at $289. Rates for the Mining Exchange start at $190 for a night. Both hotels charge for parking. The Antlers hotel is dog friendly. Up to two dogs under 50 lbs are allowed for a non-refundable $50 fee. You can also book either hotel on Booking.com, Expedia or The Wyndham Hotel Group website.
Post and photos courtesy of Jamie Rhein except for guest room photos courtesy of the hotels.
