Getting there and choosing your base
- Denver International Airport (DEN): Far out on the plains east-north-east of the city. The RTD A Line commuter train runs to Union Station, which makes LoDo the easiest base for anyone arriving without a car.
- Denver Union Station: The restored terminal for Amtrak's daily California Zephyr between Chicago and the Bay Area, and the point where light rail, commuter rail and buses meet. Long-distance trains are often late, so keep the first night flexible.
- I-25 and I-70: The main highways in from every direction. Weekend traffic on I-70 to and from the mountains can crawl, especially in bad weather, so plan ski days around an early start whatever the hotel location.
Areas to consider
LoDo and Union Station
Suits rail arrivals, Coors Field games and walking to restaurants in the historic warehouse streets. On Rockies home-game nights the area is packed and parking vanishes, so check the fixture list if you are driving.
Capitol Hill
Suits live-music fans and travellers wanting older streets, Colfax Avenue's bars and the Capitol on foot. The character changes block by block along Colfax, so read recent guest comments about noise and street activity.
River North Art District (RiNo)
Suits travellers interested in murals, galleries and music venues north-east of downtown. Confirm how far the hotel is from a commuter rail stop if you plan to reach the airport by train.
Cherry Creek
Suits shoppers and visitors who prefer an upmarket residential district south-east of downtown. It is off the rail network, so plan on buses, the Cherry Creek bike trail or rideshares into the centre.
When to go
Heavy snow can fall between October and March, often followed by mild sunny days when Chinook winds warm the city. The National Western Stock Show and Rodeo takes over January, summer brings festivals and baseball crowds downtown, and ski-season weekends add traffic heading for the mountains.
Before choosing a room
- There is almost no free weekday street parking downtown, around Coors Field or in LoDo, so check the hotel's nightly parking charge.
- The air is dry at altitude and alcohol takes effect faster; a room with a fridge or a water refill point nearby makes it easier to stay hydrated while you adjust.
- If you plan winter drives to the mountains, ask whether the garage has clearance for roof boxes and whether the hotel offers ski storage.
Sources and planning resources
Facts checked on . Transport services, taxes and hotel offers can change. Confirm the details for your trip before booking.