The Broadmoor- Colorado Springs, CO

Modeled after Europe’s grand hotels, the Broadmoor’s founder sought to build the finest hotel in the United States- a goal he most certainly achieved. Elegant and sophisticated, the hotel still sparkles 100 years later. A relaxing Rocky Mountain retreat, it is the quintessential historic hotel experience.

In 1916, Philadelphia native and mining magnate Spencer Penrose purchased 440 acres at the base of Cheyenne Mountain, first developed as a casino complex by Prussian Count James Pourtales. Penrose was interested in owning a luxury hotel in the area, but when his attempts to purchase The Antlers were rubuffed by William Jackson Palmer, he decided to build his own on the banks of Cheyenne Lake.

Penrose initially retained architect Frederick Sterner, who designed both The Antlers and Glen Eyrie, but his grand vision of an elaborate Italianate was deemed too excessive, and he was quickly replaced by the renowned New York architectural firm of Warren and Wetmore. Ironically, they adopted Sterner’s basic idea, constructing a pink stucco embellished Italianate on the east side of Cheyenne Lake.

Costing over $3 million dollars, Penrose spared no expense at The Broadmoor. European artisans were employed to paint frescoes on the vaulted ceilings and wooden beams; elaborate mosaics were installed throughout the hotel. Imported art and antiques decorated the guest rooms and lounges. Amenities at the 350 room resort included a golf course designed by Donald Ross, tennis, a theater and a Turkish bath.

The 1918 private opening was a star studded affair, involving 400 guests, the Boxhorn Orchestra and John D. Rockefeller, Junior. Ironically, paint fumes in his room forced Rockefeller to later flee to The Antlers for the night. Nevertheless, the formal opening four weeks later was a great success, which included over 1000 guests for an enchanted evening of dinner and dancing.

Penrose continue to improve the property, later adding equestrian facilities, beaches, a zoo, and a road to the summit of Pikes Peak. As an added attraction, in 1925 he purchased the Pikes Peak Cog Railroad, built by the founder of the Simmons Beautyrest Mattress Company in 1890.

A vehement opponent of Prohibition, Penrose also ensured the good times continue to flow at the Broadmoor throughout the oppressively austere era; once hidden away, his impressive bottle collection is now on display at the hotel. One would expect nothing less from a man who owned a blood shot glass eye, for days he was feeling hungover.

While The Broadmoor did have to close during the winter of 1935-36 due to the Great Depression, it manged to reemerge relatively unscathed, unlike many of the other grand hotels of the time. It flourished following World War II, with mid-century additions including a small ski area and an authentic English Pub, dismantled in the UK, shipped to Colorado, and reassembled on site. In 1995, the Broadmoor’s West Tower opened, increasing the number of rooms to 700.

Following its 2011 purchase by Denver billionaire Philip Anschutz, the property received a $130 million update, which included the addition of an infinity pool adjacent to Cheyenne Lake, and expanded lodging options. Although now a massive complex, the Main Building manages to retain its classic charm.

Rooms are elegant and luxurious, reflecting its five diamond status from AAA. Common areas are immaculate, and include an impressive collection of Western Art, including a 1919, Maxfield Parrish portrait of The Broadmoor.

For many people, myself included, the grand public spaces at historic hotels are the main attraction. Here, they most certainly don’t disappoint. With countless luxurious lounges and sitting areas located throughout the Main Building, you are sumptuously surrounded by history. Although updated, Spencer Penrose would still feel at home here, especially at the hotel bar.