A snapshot of history
The Brown Palace is a historic and iconic hotel located in the heart of downtown Denver, Colorado. Built in 1892 by entrepreneur and real estate Henry C. Brown, it has played an important role in the city’s history, serving as a gathering place for politicians, business leaders, and celebrities for over a century.
The hotel was designed by architect Frank Edbrooke in the Italian Renaissance style, featuring eight stories and a grand atrium lobby. The hotel was constructed with local sandstone and red granite, and boasts several unique architectural features, including a cast iron dome that sits atop the atrium topped by a stained-glass ceiling and skylight.
The hotel has hosted a range of dignitaries, celebrities, and wealthy socialites, cementing its reputation as one of the most luxurious hotels in the American West. Over the years it has seen several historic events, such as providing accommodations for the 1912 Democratic National Convention.
Despite its age, it has managed to maintain its grandeur and elegance over the years. The hotel underwent several renovations and expansions, including the addition of a spa and several new restaurants, while still preserving its historic charm and character. One of the most significant renovations took place in the 1950s, when the hotel was updated to meet the demands of the growing travel industry. In the 1980s, the hotel underwent a major restoration that preserved many of its original features while modernizing its amenities. The Brown Palace is now a member of Historic Hotels of America, and continues to be a popular destination for travelers and locals alike.
In addition to its luxurious accommodations, the hotel also offers a unique Afternoon Tea service, a selection of teas, while listening to the soft sounds of the grand piano, finger sandwiches, and pastries. This tradition dates back to the hotel’s early days, and has become a beloved Denver tradition. There are a range of dining options, from fine dining at the Palace Arms to casual fare at the Ship Tavern, a local favorite.
One of the most interesting aspects of the hotel is its famous resident ghosts. Legend has it that the hotel is haunted by several spirits, including a former guest, a society leader named Mrs. Louise Crawford Hill, who died in room 904 in 1955. Many guests have reported strange occurrences in this room, including the sensation of being touched by an unseen presence.
In January, the end of the National Western Stock Show marks the beginning of a new adventure. For some lucky cattle, a short stay at the luxurious hotel. Every year, a select few of the Stock Show’s prize-winning cattle are chosen to spend a few days at the Brown Palace, where they’re pampered like royalty. Of course, the cattle are also a big draw for hotel guests and visitors, who flock there to catch a glimpse of the beautiful animals. The hotel even offers “cattle tours,” where guests can meet the cows up close and learn about the different breeds and their histories.
Today, the Brown Palace remains a symbol of Denver’s rich history and a testament to the city’s enduring spirit. It continues to attract visitors from around the world who are drawn to its elegance, luxury, and unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, and a reminder of a bygone era of American prosperity and grandeur.
Thanks for wandering with us,
The Wandering Couchs
