Sleepover at the Source Hotel

Killer rooftop views, New Belgium on tap, and the best hummus you'll ever have

Anyone who counts cranes in the Denver skyline can attest that downtown is just buildings a go-go. On Brighton Boulevard, the just-opened Source Hotel means one less crane and many new spots to explore as well as rest your head for an in-state, in-town getaway as well as a bustling destination for out-of-town visitors. I was recently invited to spend the night, and what follows is my highlight reel from less than 24 hours on site.

1. ARCHITECTURAL DRAWING. I love the schematic of the building that’s on the vestibule wall as you enter (not shown here, but you'll have to go and see for yourself).

2. NEW BELGIUM ON TAP (above, left) for tastes at check in. The Ft. Collins-based craft beer company has a brewery on site and small glasses are available at the front desk.

3. ART AND SHOPPING. Two of my favorite things. The hotel's first level is filled with fun boutiques (including Winter Sessions handmade goods) as well as Station 16 Art Gallery, which has opened it only location outside of Montreal.

4. CLEON PETERSON. If you missed his mad skills during the MCA’s one-man show this year you can see more of his work in the gallery. Also on this level in perpetuity is a stunning wall mural by the artist (see above).

5. UP ON THE ROOF is one killer view of Denver. The kind you will want to experience and then bring all of your out-of-town visitors. Had I known about the pool, I would have definitely brought a suit because enjoying the scenery while lounging in the drink seems like a perfect pairing. The onsite gastro pub here serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.

6. SAFTA, SAFTA SAFTA! James Beard Award winner Alon Shaya is now strutting his crazy fab culinary skills here at Safta which is on the hotel’s main floor as well. His middle eastern influenced (the best humus you will ever have) is available for breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks. I recommend dining with a group so everyone can share multiple tastes.

7. REMOTE CONTROL WINDOW. There are 100 rooms here in various sizes and the décor is new-build industrial. My favorite bit of décor was the garage door, full-wall window (not pictured here, but make sure you ask for a room with one). I was tickled by its Lift Master remote. Oh the days of just on and off gizmos.

8. MORNING BUN AND COFFEE NEXT DOOR. It was lovely to cross the little walking bridge over to the Source’s original market hall. Had I owned cool pajamas I would have stayed in them for the journey. We sat at the Caffe Figurati coffee and paired our morning java with a seriously worth the calories morning bun at Babettes. My husband opted for a croissant and we both agreed that baker Steve Scott has it going on in the pastry department.