The Brown Palace

Palace Arms is a truly a one-of-a-kind restaurant. We had been there for our anniversary dinner on multiple occasions. However, after the Historical Hotel Tour, we had newfound appreciation for all the room’s decor. The main dining room is decorated with antiques dating to Napoleonic times. Among the flags, weapons, uniforms and ornaments, is a set of flintlock dueling pistols that belonged to Napoleon and his second wife, Louisa, and extremely rare goldplated French eagles that were used in his celebrations. The service and culinary delights served up by the chef live up to the expectations. Recipient of “Best of Award of Excellence” from Wine Spectator and consistently rated as one of the best downtown Denver fine dining experiences, Palace Arms can easily be considered the hotel’s crown jewel.

After discussing our experience, reviewing our notes, and watching a little bit of TV, we enjoyed an extremely relaxing night’s sleep in the incredibly comfortable bed. The pillowtop mattress had us fully refreshed in the morning. Upon using the in-room amenities after showering, I had to inquire further about the “bee” products I found in the bathroom. While past guests have included royalty, it turns out that the hotel has its own resident queen, five of them actually. The property is the first hotel in Denver to nurture a colony of rooftop bees. Five hives, each with its own clever name, including “Buzzingham Palace,” are maintained by a dedicated Palace beekeeper. The honey is used in a line of sweet-smelling spa products and in-room amenities, as well as in afternoon tea, seasonal recipes and cocktails, and in a unique Brown Palace craft beer.

Whether you are from Colorado and looking for a weekend staycation or traveling from out of town (DIA is only 22 miles away and easily accessible in 25–45 minutes depending on transportation means), make sure to put The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa on your list of places to see, dine at, and stay at. Our stay was quintessential in every way and we look forward to visiting The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in the future.

At 130 years and counting, The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa is Denver’s longest continually operated hotel, first opening its doors on Aug. 12, 1892. A visit is an experience of authenticity, exactly like nothing else. Although many changes have taken place over its rich history, one thing remains constant: the grandeur and grace of the city’s most elegant, iconic hotel.