We've been thinking about a staycation in lieu of an actual
vacation this year. It's a cheap chance to escape the laundry and dog walks, if only
for a fleeting weekend. I would like to think I am a staycation expert; my
friends and I average about one per year!
If you're lucky enough to call Colorado home, every season
offers a perfect staycation escape! Here are my picks:
Winter wonderland in downtown Denver
The ultimate definition of staycation; a getaway in your own
city!
- Sleep: The Sheraton Downtown is a newly-remodeled landmark with spacious rooms right on the 16th St. Mall.
- Nosh: Savor small bites and sip on cocktails for half off during happy hour at the Edge Bar at the Four Seasons. While we can't afford a luxe night in at the Four Seasons, we sure can afford the bar. The see-and-be-seen hotspot is just a short walk (or mall-ride) away from the hotel.
- Sip: Stock your overnight bag with a small assortment of favorite wines to enjoy before or after dinner.
- Enjoy: Hit the year-round heated pool for a priceless Denver view or simply catch up on books or magazines over snacks in your room. Of course there's always a bevy of entertainment right outside the hotel door. Don't forget a cheap and quick caffeine jolt at Peet's (in the Sheraton) or Starbucks (across the street) before you head home in the morning!
Springtime in Boulder
I have such great memories of college in Boulder and relish
any chance to go back!
- Sleep: The St. Julien is such an elegant, but modern, hotel. The high cost is offset by sharing a room with friends and you'll love the views, along with the plush robes.
- Nosh: T-Zero at the St. Juilen is Boulder's best-kept inexpensive secret. The tots are to die for and I can personally attest to the quality of the key lime martini!
- Sip: The rooftop bar at the Rio is across the street from the hotel, with amazing views of the flatirons. Enjoy your frozen marg!
- Enjoy: Since you're staying just steps off Pearl Street, might as well spend a lazy afternoon browsing in and out of the timeless shops. Peppercorn is a personal favorite.
Summer splendor in
the Springs
 |
| The pool at the Broadmoor |
- Sleep: The Broadmoor's summer rates are extremely reasonable. I think we paid $260 in July.
- Nosh: Dinner at the ultra-mod Summit restaurant can run a little pricey. Slip over to the lounge during social hours (think pre or post-peak dining time and you'll find inventive small bites and cocktails between $4 and $9 each.
- Sip: The Golden Bee, of course. A trip to the Broadmoor just wouldn't be complete without the eponymous stickers flicked on you by the energetic servers. Think about what raucous piano-friendly tune means the most to you and be ready to sing it loud.
- Enjoy: The resort’s pool is second-to-none. People-watch with a pina colada poolside and you'll swear you're on a tropical vacation.
Late fall in Aspen
Mud season offers some of the best deals around for Colorado
locals not looking to ski or revel in the summer beauty of the Rocky Mountains.
- Sleep: Mention you're a Colorado resident and you could get a little discount from the old-Aspen gem, Hotel Jerome
- Nosh: Savor a pizza at Brunelleschi's Dome right near the shops and your hotel for some cheap eats.
- Sip: The J-Bar at the Hotel Jerome will unite you with colorful characters and tourists alike. You won't leave without a good story to tell!
- Enjoy: Spend the afternoon window shopping (there's no way you'll be buying Louis Vuitton) and the evening at the outdoor hot-tub and you'll be set.
Take advantage of Denver's driving-distance gems with your
friends, family or significant other!
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