Denver’s Historic Brown Palace Hotel & Spa Officially on the Market

Denver’s iconic Brown Palace Hotel and Spa, a landmark destination since 1892, has been listed for sale, offering a rare opportunity to acquire a piece of the city’s history. The current owners, Crescent Real Estate, have invested millions in renovations since taking over in 2018, but have decided to seek a new owner for the property.

A Legacy of Hospitality

The 243-room hotel, known for its distinctive triangular shape and nine-story atrium, has hosted nearly every U.S. President since Teddy Roosevelt [Brown Palace History]. It remains a beloved destination for its Afternoon Tea service and historic charm.

What’s Included in the Sale?

The sale includes not only The Brown Palace Hotel and Spa but also the adjacent 231-room Holiday Inn Express, connected to the Brown Palace by a skybridge [Brown Palace Website]. This offers potential buyers a combined hospitality offering.

Renovations and Modernization

Crescent Real Estate has undertaken significant renovations during its ownership, updating the hotel while preserving its historic character. These improvements include modernizing the property to ensure it meets the expectations of today’s travelers, addressing issues like aging plumbing and updating the spa facilities [Brown Palace Website].

A “Trophy Asset”

Industry experts describe the Brown Palace as a “trophy asset,” a prestigious property sought after by investors [Brown Palace Website]. The listing price has not been publicly disclosed.

A Storied Past

Opened on August 12, 1892, the Brown Palace Hotel and Spa was the vision of Henry Cordes Brown, a carpenter-turned-real-estate entrepreneur. Brown commissioned architect Frank E. Edbrooke to design the hotel in the Italian Renaissance style, using Colorado red granite and Arizona sandstone [Brown Palace History]. The hotel’s exterior features 26 medallions carved in stone, depicting Colorado animals.

Ongoing Traditions

The Brown Palace continues to offer traditions like complimentary jazz in the Atrium Lobby on Friday and Saturday nights [Brown Palace Website].