Where To Stay In Denver: The Ultimate Neighborhood Guide

Denver, the capital of Colorado and the biggest city in the Rocky Mountains, was ranked the second-best city in the United States to live in 2020. Its popularity is due to low unemployment rate, low crime rate, stunning landscapes, vibrant nightlife, diverse culture, cheap transportation, and a lot more advantages attracting more than 30 million visitors per year. Denver sits one mile above sea level, which is why it is also called the Mile High City.

Today 2.8 million Denverites are populating the metro area of Denver, but the number is growing by the day. The city itself is divided into 78 neighborhoods, but only about ten remain popular with tourists. Some of the most visited Denver neighborhoods are Lower Downtown, River North Art District (RiNo), Capital Hill, Cherry Creek, Five Points, Uptown, Central Business District, and Highlands. So whether you are just visiting or planning to move to Denver for good, you need to get familiar with its neighborhoods in advance.

The area you choose will depend on factors such as location, attractions within walking distance, whether you prefer taking a train or you want to walk or cycle, and of course, the number of days you are staying. Luckily, Denver has a place for everyone and every budget. But don't forget to drop off your luggage at one of our secure luggage storage in Denver, so you are free to explore the city without dragging your suitcase around.

Without further ado, here are some of the best neighborhoods and hotels to check on your stay in Denver.

Where to stay in Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is the oldest and the best neighborhood for first-time visitors, weekend tourists, business travelers, overnight visitors, and everyone who wants to be in the center of things. This central location is packed with tourist attractions, rich history, great restaurants, and bars. But the best of it all is that it offers accommodation for both budget travelers and luxury travelers.

Walking around the heart of Denver, you will come across many popular sites such as the Colorado State Capitol building, the United States Mint, as well as some of the most popular attractions in the area. Some of the best museums in Denver can be found in the Capitol Hill area, such as the Denver Art Museum, Kirkland Museum of Fine and Decorative Art, and the Molly Brown House Museum. Other places of interest in downtown Denver are Denver Botanic Gardens, Civic Center Park, St. John's Cathedral, the Golden Triangle Creative District, and more!

Some of the best luxury hotels can be found in central Denver, but there are hidden gems for those traveling on a budget too.

Best Luxury Hotel: The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa

This is the most famous hotel in Denver, a luxury and 4-star hotel since 1977. The location of the beautiful 1892 building is ideal for anyone coming to visit Denver, be it for the weekend, a honeymoon, or the school holidays. But being in the city center surrounded with tradition, history, and luxury comes at a price.

Best Hostel: Ember Hostel

Ember Hostel is a great choice to stay in Denver whether traveling solo, with your partner, or the entire family. The hostel features a garden, a hot tub, a 24-hour front desk, and table tennis. Located close to Colorado History Museum and Molly Brown House Museum, this hotel is perfect for museum lovers and budget travelers.

Where to stay in Uptown

Uptown is an old residential area in Denver that attracts mainly families. Located east of Downtown Denver, this neighborhood is packed with small shops, stunning historic architecture, tree-lined streets, and many family-friendly activities. The area offers a relaxed vibe, plenty of eateries, and it is easy to get around on foot, making it the best location for families visiting Denver.

Choosing this Denver neighborhood means you will be close to Denver Zoo, City Park, the Museum of Nature and Science, and 17th Avenue, Denver's main thoroughfare. Of course, like any main thoroughfare, 17th Avenue is where you will spend a lot of your time walking around, shopping, eating, having coffee, or enjoying a cocktail in one of the many buzzing bars.

Best Budget Hotel: The Curtis Denver

This hotel has everything you need and more, plus it is located in the city center. From $100 up, expect to see modern and stylish rooms and pop culture decor, excellent service, a martini bar, and a lot more! Once you step out of the hotel, you are surrounded by eateries of all kinds, al fresco bars, and theatres. The lively neighborhood and the price make it easy to choose this hotel for your next stay in Denver.

Where to stay in Lower Downtown Area

Lower Downtown or LoDo is undoubtedly one of the best areas to stay in Denver. Located northwest from Capitol Hill, between the South Platte River and the Central Business District, LoDo's great location attracts tourists from all over the world. It is the best neighborhood for everyone who is in a hurry and wants to see the most of Denver in a short period of time but also save some money while doing so.

Lower Downtown is packed with hip cafes, sports bars, restaurants, art galleries, and museums. If you are a baseball fan, even better! Coors Field, the home of the Colorado Rockies Baseball Team is located in this neighborhood. Walking around Lower Downtown, you will find some incredible historic architecture with Victorian charm and many touristic spots such as the historic Larimer Square, Union Station, Commons Park, and the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver.

Here are some of the best Lower Downtown hotels:

Best Luxury Hotel: The Ritz Carlton

Conveniently located in the heart of downtown Denver, the Ritz Carlton is one of the best hotels in Denver. Featuring luxurious rooms, butler service, a spa, a fitness center, and an on-site steakhouse, this hotel will make you feel special any time of the day.

Best Budget Hotel: Hotel Indigo

If you are looking for where to stay in Denver, this budget hotel located in the heart of the city is an excellent choice! Located close to Union Station and Coors Field makes this hotel convenient for frequent travelers and sports fans! While it is one of the best for couples traveling on a budget, families will love it too!

Friendly staff, comfortable beds, free wi-fi, a fitness center, and a la carte breakfast are just a few of the perks you get when you check in the Hotel Indigo Denver.

Where to stay in Central Business District

For those looking to explore the vibrant nightlife in Denver, Central Business District is the best neighborhood to stay in. During the day, you can head down to Downtown Aquarium, ride the Denver Beer, or shop at the one-mile-long 16th Street Mall, the most famous pedestrian street in Denver. Then, when the night falls, find a jazz club, or a fun pub, or dance the night away in one of the bustling clubs.

This area is lively day and night and offers plenty of fun and entertainment for every taste and age. Some of the best hotels in Denver can be found in this vibrant area, so make sure to check them out:

Best Luxury Hotel: The Four Seasons

The Four Seasons Hotel is the best option to stay in the Central Business District, featuring a rooftop pool, spa, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant for fine dining. Located within a short walk from the Colorado Convention center and near Coors Field and Larimer Square, this luxury hotel boasts elegant suites with stunning views of downtown Denver. In addition, the Four Seasons offers a free shuttle service that will take you anywhere within 3 miles of the hotel.

Best Budget Hotel: Hyatt House

Hyatt House Denver is a 3-star hotel ideal for budget travelers. The rooms are spacious and clean with huge windows and equipped with all the necessary amenities. You can enjoy a delicious a la carte continental breakfast every morning, do your workout in the gym or use the decent size indoor pool. Its convenient location near Colorado Convention Center and United States Mint makes this hotel a perfect choice for your stay in Denver.

Where to stay in Cherry Creek

For those looking to experience the luxury side of Denver, Cherry Creek is an excellent choice. Located southeast of Downtown Denver, this neighborhood attracts travelers from all around the globe, mainly luxury travelers who don't worry about spending $300+ per night for a luxury hotel room or dining in high-end restaurants. Shopping is also popular, especially Cherry Creek North, where you will find Cherry Creek Shopping Center, the best place to shop in the area.

Other exciting places to visit in Cherry Creek are the Cherry Creek Reservoir and Pulaski Park.

Here are some hotel recommendations for the Cherry Creek neighborhood:

Best Luxury Hotel: The Jacquard

The 4-star hotel in the heart of Cherry Creek attracts guests with its stunning rooftop pool, contemporary design, and delicious American breakfast. There is also a business center, a snack bar, and private parking for an extra fee. This hotel is a favorite among couples and business travelers.

Best Budget Hotel: Doubletree by Hilton

Doubletree by Hilton is located only five minutes from Cherry Creek Shopping Centre. The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and courtyard lounge with firepits, setting a romantic atmosphere for couples traveling to Denver. They are proud of their breakfast selection, the 6.400 sq. feet Mile High Ballroom and the on-site catering.

The rooms are spacious and equipped with air conditioning, a refrigerator, flat-screen TV, desk, and gorgeous views. It is one of the best hotels to stay in Denver.

Where to stay in Highland

Highland is another area close to downtown and popular among hipsters and the younger crowd. Much like any neighborhood in Denver, this place is also packed with hip restaurants, bars, breweries, upscale cafes, pubs, and shops, just a little bit of everything for every taste. So if you decide to stay in Highland, you will always have something to do and somewhere to go.

Make sure to stop by Highland Bridge, walk around Highland Square at 32nd Avenue for some people watching and enjoy stunning views of the downtown skyline from a rooftop bar. There is always something happening in the Highland, from festivals to entertainment for the youngest.

Here are some of the best hotels in the area:

Best Hotel: Mint House Denver 

Mint House is an aparthotel located within walking distance of LoDo and 16th Street Mall. The rooms are spacious, fitted with air conditioning and a fully equipped kitchen. You can enjoy beautiful views from the hotel's sun terrace.

Mint House Denver is also close to Larimer Square, Coors Field, and Denver Performing Arts Complex. And Denver International Airport is only 18 miles from the hotel.

Best Budget Hotel: Residence Inn by Marriott

Located in the heart of Highland, this 3-star hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool, free wi-fi, and a hot breakfast. There are many spots to check out near the hotel, including Denver Art Museum, Denver Botanic Gardens, and Elitch Gardens. Clean and spacious rooms, excellent service, and close proximity to many attractions make it one of the best hotels to stay in Denver.

Where to Stay in Mile High City

So there it is! The ultimate guide on where to stay in Denver with some of the best hotels - cheap, midrange, and luxury, for every age, style, and budget. You will find this guide to Denver accommodation helpful on your future trip to Denver. Use it to find the best neighborhood and hotel accommodation for you and your family. Then, enjoy street art, places like the Denver Central Market and Smith Lake at Washington Park. Every Denver neighborhood has something special to offer!