U.S. Airforce Academy Time-Honored Traditions Inspire the New Hotel Polaris

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Looking for a perfect getaway without traveling through Denver International Airport? Look no further than Colorado Springs and Hotel Polaris to provide everything you need for a stellar staycation. Inspired by the legacy of the Air Force Academy, the 375-room resort-style hotel features stunning mid-century modern design, a boutique spa and wellness center and six food and beverage experiences. The hotel’s guest services also include the only in-house flight simulators in the United States.

Hotel Polaris presents a space connecting guests with the sweeping views of the Front Range. Accessible by pedestrian bridge, the brand-new Academy Visitors Center serves as a tribute to the storied history and bright future bridging the past and present at the Academy.

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Photo: Hotel Polaris

“Meticulously incorporated into the hotel’s design are elements that are inspired by the Academy,” says Kristin Yantis, principal at Malin Yantis Public Relations. The Do Not Disturb signs for guest room doors replicate wheel chocks—wedge shaped blocks that are positioned against a parked aircraft’s wheels to prevent rolling.

The tile layout in the lobby is reflective of The Terrazzo at the Academy. The iconic Cadet Chapel is featured in elements that include the wallpaper of the guest room corridors and the carpet pattern throughout the Conference Center. 

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Guests will find a variety of satiating dining at the hotel. The Thunderbird Bar on the hotel’s main level pays tribute to the Cadet Squadron-27 Thunderbirds and the class of 1987.  The Rooftop Aviator Bar serves small and large Asian-inspired plates and an exclusive cocktail experience surrounded by stunning views. Pamela’s provides a menu of refined American cuisine and Doolies is reminiscent of a soda shop with a family-friendly menu and environment.

“Ascend Spa and Wellness offers a full-service spa menu with six treatment rooms and a relaxation room with beautiful mountain views,” notes Yantis. “Wellness programs include early morning fitness classes for a healthy start to the day.”

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Three immersive flight simulators invite guests to buckle up and take flight for an experience that seems like the real thing. The 200-degree, wraparound screens and HD imagery enable you to engage in an F-16 dog fight or to fly from Denver to London.

Many past Academy graduates have sponsored a hotel room. Plaques outside the sponsored rooms note the name or story of an Air Force Academy graduate and contribute to preserving meaningful history and traditions. To plan your stay, or to learn more about holiday activities at the hotel, please visit their website.

Photo: Hotel Polaris

Photo: Hotel Polaris