In Glenwood Springs, there’s a new hotel that builds on the past. Writer Ron Stern tells us what it’s like to stay at Hotel Maxwell Anderson plus some things to do in the area so you can make a staycation of it.
Building on its lasting reputation for elegance and hospitality, the Hotel Denver has a new name and a fresh look. Now known as Hotel Maxwell Anderson, this new identity of a fictional train conductor harkens back to the early railroad days of the 1880s. Back then the Denver and Rio Grande and Chicago Midland Railroads brought trainloads of workers, settlers, and tourists to the expanding town of Glenwood Springs.
Opened in 1915, this renovated historic boutique hotel has integrated the best elements of the past with a clean modern design. Retaining its vintage charm together with a contemporary appeal, travelers seeking a memorable stay in the center of town will discover it here.
Located a short 2.5-hour drive from Denver via Glenwood Canyon, the property is within walking distance of neighboring shops, restaurants and downtown. Constructed in 1929, the beautiful red sandstone railroad depot sits as an iconic landmark right across the street. From the hotel’s elevated position, you’ll have sweeping views of the Colorado River, the Hotel Colorado and Glenwood Hot Springs Lodge and Pool.
As one of the oldest hotels in Glenwood, it has been witness to more than 100 years of history. Much of this has been preserved during the recent renovation. Just beyond check-in, the three-story atrium lobby has been redesigned to make better use of the space.
Plush couches, tables, chairs and historical artifacts surround a massive stone fireplace, providing a relaxing seating area for conversation and refreshment. Large windows allow natural light while overhead, suspended crystal chandeliers add to the whimsical vibe. Vintage accents like Tiffany-style lamps, steam trunks and memorabilia can be found both here and throughout the public spaces. The walls are adorned with contemporary artwork and photos that extend to the upper floors. The adjacent Glenwood Canyon Brewpub’s entrance is now accessible from the lobby.
90 rooms and suites have been meticulously updated using upscale textiles and a “sophisticated color palette.” Each room has been thoughtfully adorned with modern furnishings, high- speed Wi-Fi, HDTVs, a dedicated workspace and premium bedding and linens. As one who suffers from back and neck issues, I found the beds and pillows to be heavenly bliss and had my best sleep in years.
There are several amenities located on the premises. In the morning you can grab a coffee or a quick bite at Wild Coffee Roasters. With a fun and colorful vibe, Mona Lisa Boutique offers a variety of women’s apparel. Glenwood Brew Pub is the ideal place to relax while enjoying a burger, fish and chips, soup or a sandwich. You can lounge on their patio while sampling some of their award-winning signature beers.
Some of the original exposed bricks were retained as part of the redesign. If these walls could talk, they would regale you with tales of prohibition, gangsters, shootouts and two world wars. Even Doc Holliday came to town for his health. You can view his gravesite via a short hike up to Linwood Cemetery.
Through the decades, the Hotel Maxwell Anderson has served travelers with elegance, comfort and a superior level of hospitality. This tradition has continued today with a bold, modern design and a sense of nostalgia, providing a memorable experience for each guest.
Where to Eat:
With more than 80 restaurants, there is a little something for everyone. You can choose from a host of options for every palate. Fortunately, the hotel is located right on “Restaurant Row” and close to downtown so most eateries are within easy walking distance.
My longtime favorite for dinner is the Riviera Supper Club and Scratch Kitchen. Everything I have tried here has been delightful, and it consistently receives rave reviews. Others include The Pullman, Juicy Lucy’s, and Smoke Modern Barbeque. My wife and I also really like Masala and Curry for Indian Fare. Not forgetting dessert, Sundae is my go-to. I recommend their signature “sundae” prepared with your choice of ice cream and homemade hot fudge–perfection!
Things to do while staying at Hotel Maxwell Anderson:
To me, Glenwood Springs is like a playground in the mountains with adventures for the entire family. You can explore historic caves and experience all-day fun and thrilling rides at The Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park. Yampah Caverns and Vapor Caves, is the place to go to soothe your body and spirit in their natural underground mineral steam bath. Some other diversions include hiking, fishing, camping, and whitewater rafting.
Worthy of special consideration are the Iron Mountain Hot Springs and Glenwood Hot Springs Pool. I have been to both multiple times and would highly recommend each for their unique ambiance and amenities.
Iron Mountain Hot Springs, is arguably one of the most beautiful in the world. Situated directly alongside the Colorado River, guests are treated to stunning views of the nearby red-hued mountains. Sixteen geothermal soaking pools are set on a terraced hillside among rock formations, colorful flowers, trees, and water features. Relaxing acoustic guitar music creates a tranquil ambiance that will have your body thanking you.
The newly expanded WorldSprings represents a beautiful new addition to the property. This adults-only (ages 21 and older) section features 10 Experience Pools, a cold plunge pool, two freshwater pools and even a waterfall.
Each of these is designed to re-create the mineral content from famous hot springs from around the world. The owners have chosen the best healing properties from Iceland, Japan, Italy, Turkey, Romania, and New Zealand, to name a few. They have also lined the bottoms with pebbles, creating a gentle foot massage effect for your feet.
Glenwood Hot Springs Pool is famous for having the “world’s largest hot springs pool” and one of the loveliest. This is one of six on-site geothermal pools that have lured visitors since 1888.
The Ute Indians named these springs Yampah, meaning big medicine, as they believed the healing waters made them better hunters. Fifteen dissolved minerals with therapeutic benefits include boron, calcium, chloride, sodium, lithium, potassium, and magnesium.
Travelers come from all over the world to “take the waters,” derived from an underground spring that produces 3,500,000 gallons of water per day. There are two pools kept at temperatures of 90F and 104F degrees, which many claim possess curative properties for various ailments.
You can access the pool via the pedestrian bridge that spans the Colorado River. It is only a short 10-minute walk from the Hotel Maxwell Anderson to the main entrance.
To get more information, and to book your stay at the Hotel Maxwell Anderson, visit their website, here.
-Story by Ron Stern
Please note: As is common practice in our industry, Ron was hosted for his visit but this does not, in any way, affect our opinions or our goal to bring our readers information they can use.
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