The Little White House of The West: The Hotel Colorado

In 1891, the site of the new hotel being built in Glenwood Springs had to make people wonder. At the time, many residents still lived in tents and log cabins, yet work had begun on a structure that would be called a world-class destination.

When the Hotel Colorado opened in 1893, guests witnessed a 250-room hotel in the Rocky Mountains, modeled after the Villa De Medici in Italy. By 1901, the Hotel Colorado got its first visit from Theodore Roosevelt.

The History Behind the Roosevelt Suite

How did a 250-room luxury hotel get the green light in Glenwood Springs in 1891? Geothermal hot spring pools were known for their healing powers. Colorado investors couldn't build fast enough. When Theodore Roosevelt arrived in 1901, it wasn't for the hot springs; it was to hunt cougars.

Roosevelt's first trip to Colorado was as America's Vice President. He would return to hunt bears in 1905 as President. Roosevelt needed a hotel that could provide lodging and workspace for the President's staff. Hotel Colorado was happy to accommodate.

What It’s Like to Stay in the Roosevelt Suite

Following Theodore's time in Colorado, the hotel chose to name one of its best suites after the President. Today, the Roosevelt Suite includes a separate living room, fireplace, the same private balcony access the President had, and allows guests to stay in the same quarters as TR did. Several videos online show off what the suite looks like:

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How Much Does the Roosevelt Suite Cost?

The Roosevelt Suite at the Hotel Colorado can cost guests anywhere between $600 and $1000 per night (or more). Exploring the availability of the suite at HotelColorado.com shows different rates. Weeknights cost less than Weekends. Rates are higher during holiday weekends.

For history buffs who just want to look inside the hotel, you can. Lots of photos of the President can be found inside, including a few of his old 'Teddy Bears.' On quiet days, you may even be able to slip up the main staircase to see the entrance of the Roosevelt Suite on the second floor.