Having grown up in Denver in the 1980s, I have many fond memories of the city. I moved away decades ago, however, so those memories are what I rely on when thinking back to what Denver has to offer. The landscape has changed, renovations have occurred, and coming back to this city is no longer the same. It has grown up and evolved. One particular spot, Denver Union Station, had me shocked at the transformation.

Denver’s first train station, Union Station was built in the late 1800s, but then burned down. It was rebuilt in the early 1900s and remained a transportation hub in the city. However, decline in train travel after World War II made it so that it was used less frequently. In the 80s, how I remember it, RTD and the city made it so that bus lanes were added and then eventually light rail systems. But in the 1980s, I remember it being in a sketchy neighborhood and inside was dirty and not a place you would like to hang around. Which was a shame because it really was a beautiful building.

In 2014, the property was redeveloped and became The Crawford Hotel. We were invited to stay here this past week* and check it out. I was very excited to see what it had become as the hotel celebrates its 10th Anniversary.

Walking up to the hotel, the outside was familiar, but of course, much nicer than I remember. It was wonderful to see such a pretty building brought back to it’s glory. But, then I walked inside.

My memory of Union Station was grungy and gray. Dust particles floating in the sunlight filtering through the building and leaving the rest of the room in dark shadows. Walking into it now, truly, was breathtaking, especially if you had known what it was before. This bright, light-filled space was absolutely beautiful. This was rejuvenation at its best! Still used for transportation below, this main floor or Great Hall of the station houses the hotel lobby, restaurants, retail, public space and a train waiting area. Above the Great Hall, all the hotel rooms are located.

Now, the hotel had transformed from a transportation hub into a social hub all while maintaining the historical integrity of the building. It was really incredible.

One might wonder about safety and security in a hotel setting such as this. With access to the trains, retail and dining, there are many people visiting who are not guests of the hotel. Special security considerations were taken here and only hotel guests have access to the hotel floors. Security guards are stationed throughout and clearance is required to even access areas only hotel patrons should be able to enjoy. Private elevators ensure privacy and safety.

It should be noted that if you are traveling into Denver and choosing to stay at The Crawford Hotel, a direct train line from Denver International Airport will take you to the hotel property, making it an exceptional choice for ease of travel.

Upon arrival at the hotel, we were greeted by the most professional valet, PJ, whom we enjoyed conversing with. His friendly demeanor was a glimpse into the treatment we would be receiving from everyone employed at the hotel. Check in at the lobby was easy and just as cordial, with them even offering us delicious fresh-baked signature cookies to take to our rooms. There are some other amenities offered while staying at the hotel. Included in your stay is a small drip coffee at the Pigtrain Coffee Shop, a scoop of ice cream at the Milkbox Ice Creamery and a craft beer from Terminal Bar during their happy hour from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm. Discounts at many of the retailers inside the station and rides within two miles of the hotel are also part of your stay.

There are 112 rooms at this hotel. We opted to stay in one of the Loft Guest Rooms of the hotel, located on the 4th floor. This used to be the attic of the station but has been renovated to become unique accommodations for travelers. Each room is different from the next but features structural elements of the original station like exposed brick and wood beams.

We found our way to our room and were delighted to see that every detail was well thought out, even in the hallway. Art work, soft lighting, beautiful wooden doors and complementary carpeting created a welcoming ambiance, setting it apart from other standard hotels.

Opening the door to our room, we saw that it was anything but ordinary. Beautiful structural elements, warm tones, eclectic design components all created an atmosphere that made us feel right at home.

Far from the typical hotel room, this space was luxurious and playful, modern and historic, all combined. We were elated to see how tremendous the room was.

Despite the hustle and bustle in the hotel lobby below, all was quiet and peaceful in our room. You would never know anyone was nearby. Heavy doors and thick walls contributed to absolute zen within the walls of our space. Such an important aspect of hotel room! When traveling, whether on business or vacation, no one wants to hear loud voices, TVs or doors slamming while trying to unwind.

I loved the design of the bathroom and the beautiful tub. Again, lighting and little thoughtful details contributed to making this room an exceptional one.

After we had exhausted ourselves with all the attractions in the hotel and nearby, when it came time to retire for the evening, we did so in absolute comfort. The bed was phenomenal. It’s quite common to not sleep well your first night in a hotel, but this was not an issue, whatsoever. The bed was a welcome reprieve from all our activities and we slept undisturbed in tranquil bliss. We woke up extremely well-rested and refreshed, excited for a new day of adventure. I highly recommend stopping in at Snooze, the perfect breakfast eatery adjacent to the hotel before you venture out for the day. Do yourself a favor and try the Bella!Bella! Benny–you won’t be disappointed! Guests of the hotel get the perk of priority seating, which is an added bonus.

I can’t recommend this hotel enough. The location is absolutely ideal. They have really developed this area of LoDo (lower downtown) in Denver and it is reminiscent of bigger cities, much better than how it had been before. Restaurants and entertainment are in abundance in the complex and just beyond in the blocks surrounding the hotel.

I’ll be honest, Denver has never been one of my favorite cities, but after staying at The Crawford Hotel and exploring this area, my viewpoint has quickly adapted. Even if you only came to see this area of Denver, it is worth your time. You will have a wonderful experience! But if you are in town for other activities, as well, it’s a prime location to see all there is to see in the Mile High City, while enjoying magnificent accommodations.

I recommend booking a stay at The Crawford Hotel when in Denver, for business, for vacation or even a fun staycation if you live in Colorado. It is well worth the visit and you will be excited to come back again soon, I know I am!

^{*we were invited to facilitate a feature, all opinions are our own*}