1. St. Julien Hotel and Spa

If your goal is to relax in unbridled comfort, the St. Julien fills the bill. Services include Afternoon Tea in The Onyx private dining room of Jill’s Restaurant, live music and signature Colorado liquor in the T-Zero room, entertainment on the Terrace featuring breathtaking views of the Flatiron Mountains and the full-service treatment of the Spa, featuring handmade treatments from the Spa’s own herbal garden. The rooms are an elegant mix of classical décor and modern functionality. From sophisticated single rooms to six-room luxury suites, the St. Julien Hotel leaves little to be desired, with the notable exception of your mad money reserve.

2. Hotel Boulderado

Built in 1909 with money raised by local business men and women, the Boulderado features a history as exciting as “The People’s Republic of Boulder” herself. Guests have included Helen Keller, Benny Goodman, Clarence Darrow, Douglas Fairbanks, Robert Frost and Louis Armstrong. The building is an architectural history lover’s dream with its late Victorian charm, graceful lines and cornices, and thought-provoking detail. The hotel offers 161 rooms, an original Otis elevator and a grand staircase that is a mark of true sophistication. If you are a history buff, or you simply enjoy a great hotel along with superb service, the Hotel Boulderado is for you.

3. Basecamp Hotel

The Basecamp is billed as the hotel for the adventuresome. It features a no-nonsense style that is practical, perhaps utilitarian, in nature. Its unique amenities are said to “respect your budget”. It is located in downtown Boulder just minutes from the world-famous Pearl Street Mall and the hotel is in close proximity to the CU Boulder Campus. The hotel sports the Bouldering Wall for those who have neither the time nor the inclination to climb the incredible rocks and cliff faces of Boulder’s easily accessible outdoor parks and recreation areas. The Great Indoors room features four, recessed twin beds and a truly unique themed décor. If there is an adventuresome spirit within you, give the Basecamp Hotel a go.

4. Boulder University Inn

The Boulder University Inn is an affordable, no-frills hotel with clean rooms, continental breakfast, wireless internet access, a heated pool and a very friendly and efficient staff. However, what differentiates this hotel from its competitors is its pet-friendly approach to the traditional, budget hotel experience. Many rooms are designated pet-friendly and include no-charge pet treats and toys, in-room water bowls, and arrangements for day-care and overnight kennel services. The staff will go above and beyond to make arrangements for a visit to a local veterinarian or a top-notch pet groomer. For those of you who find it difficult to travel without your beloved furry family member, the Boulder University Inn might just be the hotel you’ve been looking for.

5. Stone Mountain Lodge

Stone Mountain Lodge sits on the mountain side near Boulder. This establishment features well-appointed, rustic cabins that bring the guest much closer to the natural side of this wonderful area. The lodge includes, among its many offerings, hiking trails (from easy to intermediate to advanced difficulty); a pond, for early morning sunrise reflection; grills, for that outdoor flavor and enough space to keep the weary, city-worn traveler excited and exuberant about each new day. The lodge is simply a wonderful location for families, groups and event planners who wish to enjoy the natural beauty of Colorado.