The Colorado State Library isn’t just about books—it’s a sanctuary for minds and souls. The architecture itself feels like art: soaring glass domes flood the space with soft light, dancing across towering shelves like sunlight through a forest canopy. Whether you’re diving into historical archives, browsing design masterpieces, or just sipping coffee in quiet contemplation, the vibe pulls you in. Bonus? Regular free lectures and cultural exhibitions turn learning into an adventure. Here, you don’t read—you explore, discover, belong.
















Everything you need to know about Colorado State Library
Near the Colorado State Library in downtown Denver, The Crawford Hotel is a top choice, offering a boutique experience just a short walk away. Its prime location places guests within easy reach of the Denver Art Museum, Historic District, and 16th Street Mall.
Alternatively, Hyatt Regency Denver Downtown provides luxury accommodations with direct access to the Denver Convention Center and Broadway Theatre District. Featuring an indoor pool, fine dining, and exceptional service, it’s ideal for both business travelers and tourists seeking central convenience and urban elegance.
From Denver International Airport (DEN), take RTD Bus Route 100 to the 16th Street Mall, which is a 5-minute walk from the Colorado State Library and nearby hotels. The journey takes about 30–45 minutes and offers scenic views of the city.
For greater comfort and flexibility, use Uber or Lyft, which provide door-to-door service in approximately 30 minutes. Some hotels, like the Hyatt Regency Denver Downtown, also offer complimentary airport shuttles, making your arrival seamless and stress-free.
Near the Colorado State Library, visitors can attend daily midday lectures and local author signings, immersing themselves in intellectual and creative culture. The library features a historical archives exhibit showcasing early frontier manuscripts and photographs from Colorado’s past.
Just a 5-minute walk away, the Denver Public Library Main Branch hosts poetry readings and indie film screenings at its rooftop Reading Plaza. On weekends, the 16th Street Mall transforms into a vibrant hub with art markets, street performances, and food vendors, offering a true taste of Denver’s dynamic local culture.
Yes, several hotels near the Colorado State Library are family-friendly. Hyatt Regency Denver Downtown offers family suites, kids’ activity corners, and complimentary breakfast with 24-hour room service.
The hotel is within a 10-minute walk of the Denver Children’s Museum and Science Museum of Colorado, perfect for educational outings. Nearby streets feature family-friendly cafes and safe walking paths, ensuring a relaxed and secure environment. With quiet surroundings and convenient access to attractions, it’s an ideal base for family travelers.
Stay at The Crawford Hotel, a boutique hotel just a 5-minute walk from the Colorado State Library. This modern, centrally located property offers stylish rooms and excellent service. Located near the Denver Art Museum and the historic 15th Street Mall, it's ideal for exploring cultural attractions on foot. The hotel is also close to RTD bus lines and the light rail station, providing easy access to destinations like Red Rocks Park and Denver International Airport. Guests enjoy both urban convenience and a quiet atmosphere—perfect for experiencing Colorado’s culture and natural beauty.
The Colorado State Library is centrally located in downtown Denver, making it easy to reach key attractions like the Denver Art Museum, State Capitol, and 15th Street Mall via walking. For longer distances, take the RTD light rail (Line 15) or bus services from nearby stops, connecting to Denver International Airport or Red Rocks Park. Additionally, e-scooters and bike-sharing stations are widely available throughout the area, offering flexible options for short trips. With an efficient public transit network, getting around Denver is seamless whether you're sightseeing or attending business events.
Beyond exploring the Colorado State Library’s extensive archives and historical collections, visitors can enjoy the Denver Art Museum, featuring Native American art and contemporary exhibitions. Weekend pop-up markets offer local craft coffee and gourmet street food. During summer, outdoor music festivals on 15th Street showcase jazz and indie acts—perfect for soaking in Denver’s vibrant arts scene. The surrounding area also features public art murals and historical bronze statues, making it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
Yes, The Crawford Hotel is ideal for families, offering connecting rooms and child-friendly amenities such as free cribs and baby toiletries. It’s close to the Denver Children’s Museum and nearby parks perfect for outdoor play. The on-site restaurant provides a dedicated children’s menu, while quiet floor layouts ensure restful sleep. Nearby, you’ll find family-friendly restaurants and grocery stores for daily needs. With safety, convenience, and kid-oriented services, it’s a reliable base for exploring Denver with children.
Yes, the Colorado State Library itself is highly photogenic, featuring a grand classical dome and marble façade perfect for architectural photography. Its front plaza includes monumental sculptures and seasonal flower gardens, especially stunning in spring and fall. Just a 5-minute walk away, the Denver Art Museum’s modern glass structure offers striking contrast with the library’s classic design. Nearby, the historic 15th Street buildings boast vibrant street art murals and colorful facades—ideal for capturing urban lifestyle and cultural flair.
See what other travelers say about Colorado State Library

Staying here was a game-changer for my business trip—right across the street from the convention center makes meetings effortless. The room was spacious, clean, and comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night's sleep. I especially appreciated the complimentary breakfast and evening snacks; both were fresh, tasty, and offered good variety. The location is unbeatable—walking distance to downtown attractions and just steps from the metro station. Easy access, great value, and top-notch service. This hotel exceeded all my expectations. Definitely coming back next time I’m in Denver.

Staying at the Hilton Denver City Center was an excellent experience overall. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, attentive, and always ready to help with anything we needed. The rooms were spotless, well-maintained, and offered a peaceful retreat after a long day exploring downtown Denver. The location is unbeatable: just steps away from shopping, dining, and major attractions, making it easy to enjoy everything the city has to offer. One small suggestion would be adding a lounge area where guests can unwind and socialize—otherwise, this stay was truly outstanding. From comfort to convenience, every detail felt thoughtfully considered. I’d definitely recommend this hotel and plan to return.

I always come back to The Art Hotel Denver whenever I visit the city after moving away a few years ago, and it never disappoints. Located in a peaceful neighborhood just steps away from the art museum, the hotel offers a serene escape while still being close to everything worth exploring. The surrounding area has great quick dining options, and the on-site restaurant is a real highlight—elegant, flavorful, and consistently excellent. Whether you're here for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this place feels like a home away from home. It's more than just a hotel—it’s an experience. Highly recommend for travelers who appreciate art, comfort, and a touch of local charm.

Staying at The Curtis Denver - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel was an excellent experience overall. The bedding was incredibly comfortable and cozy, making for a restful night's sleep. The only minor issue was a bit of noise from the air conditioning unit, which required adjusting the temperature a few times before we could get some peace. However, this didn’t detract much from the overall comfort. The room was spotlessly clean, and the breakfast options were fresh, well-presented, and delicious. The location is fantastic—easy to walk around, with plenty of nearby shops, cafes, and restaurants just across the street. We enjoyed strolling through the neighborhood and found several great dining spots. It’s a well-located, well-maintained hotel with a welcoming vibe. Highly recommend for travelers looking for comfort and convenience in downtown Denver.

I’d absolutely recommend this Hilton Garden Inn over the other Hilton in Denver—I’ve stayed at both, and this one truly stands out. The rooms are more modern and spacious, with a fresh, clean vibe that makes you feel right at home. One of the highlights? A heated indoor pool—perfect for relaxing after a long day exploring the city. The fitness center is well-equipped and not overcrowded, which is always a plus. Location-wise, it’s unbeatable: right next to Union Station, making public transit super convenient. Whether you're here for business or leisure, the overall experience here is simply better. It’s clear they’ve put thought into every detail. I’ll definitely be staying here again on my next visit to Denver.

Staying at the Home2 Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown Convention Center was an absolute pleasure. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown, making it super convenient to walk to major attractions, restaurants, and shopping areas. The room was spacious and well-designed, with a full kitchenette including a microwave, sink, and counter space—perfect for whipping up simple meals without needing to cook on a stove. Breakfast starts early at 6 AM, offering a good variety of options, which is great for early risers. The 24-hour fitness center is a huge plus—always accessible whenever I wanted to work out. And the view of the Rocky Mountains from the room? Absolutely stunning. Watching the light change across the peaks throughout the day added a magical touch to my stay. Everything about this hotel exceeded expectations. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers.

I stayed in a top-floor suite at Homewood Suites by Hilton Denver Downtown-Convention Center, and from the moment I arrived, I mentioned to the staff that English isn’t my first language and I sometimes struggle with it. To my surprise, they responded with incredible patience and kindness—no frustration, just clear, warm communication. The entire stay was flawless. The bed and sofa were incredibly comfortable, the room felt spacious with plenty of breathing room, and the Wi-Fi worked perfectly—no buffering, no issues. The shower experience stood out: water pressure was just right—not too strong, not too weak—ideal for relaxing after a long day. Noise insulation was excellent; I didn’t hear a single sound from neighboring rooms and slept like a baby. The staff went above and beyond—they helped me find the most affordable way back to the airport, even showed me where the closest bus stop was. So helpful and genuinely kind! Breakfast was an absolute highlight. Unlike other hotels, there’s a dedicated team member who comes around each morning to pick up empty plates—no need to carry them yourself. The menu changes daily, keeping things fresh while still offering popular staples (which are always delicious). I especially loved making waffles every morning—there were so many options, it felt like a buffet of comfort food. If I ever return to Denver, this is the only hotel I’ll book again. A truly memorable, stress-free, and welcoming experience.

Every aspect of our stay was outstanding. My wife absolutely loved the complimentary breakfast—fresh, delicious, and a great way to start the day. The front desk staff was incredibly kind and professional; I wish I remembered her name, but her warm hospitality truly made a difference. The location is perfect for exploring downtown Denver and attending events at the convention center—easy access by public transit and just steps away from everything we needed. Clean rooms, friendly atmosphere, and excellent service all around. I’d happily book here again without hesitation. Thanks for such a wonderful experience!

The location of this hotel is absolutely unbeatable—every neighborhood in downtown Denver is just a short walk away, making it incredibly convenient for exploring the city. The front desk staff were genuinely friendly and welcoming from the moment we arrived. Breakfast was a highlight: fresh, delicious, and offered a great variety of options. The fitness center is conveniently located downstairs next to the pool, with plenty of modern equipment to keep your workout routine on track. I loved how comfortable the bed was—perfectly supportive and made for a restful night’s sleep. Plus, the room had a stunning view of the downtown skyline, which added a special touch to our stay. Every detail felt thoughtfully designed, and the overall experience was exceptional. Definitely a top choice if you're visiting Denver.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown was a great experience overall. Located right in the heart of the city, it's within walking distance to major attractions like the art museum and historical exhibits—perfect for exploring on foot. The room was clean, modern, and well-designed with a calm, elegant vibe. I especially appreciated the convenient access to public transit and downtown amenities. While the complimentary breakfast was decent, it wasn’t particularly memorable—basic options with little variety. That said, the value for money is excellent, staff were friendly and helpful, and the location can’t be beat. If you're visiting Denver and want a comfortable, hassle-free stay in a prime spot, this hotel is definitely worth considering.

Staying at this Hampton Inn was a great experience overall. The hot water worked perfectly—no cold showers, just warm and steady flow. The room was clean, well-maintained, and had all the essentials: comfortable bed, good lighting, and plenty of storage space. Free parking is a big plus, especially if you're driving in from out of town—no extra fees or stress about finding a spot. Breakfast was a classic American buffet—simple but satisfying. You get eggs, sausage, pancakes, and coffee, which is more than enough to start the day right. It’s not fancy, but it's reliable and fills you up. Location-wise, it’s convenient for getting around Denver, with easy access to public transit and major roads. Great value for money and a solid choice if you're looking for a no-frills, dependable stay. I’d definitely book here again.

As a Hilton Gold member, I always look forward to staying at a Hilton for the excellent front desk service and well-maintained rooms—and this Tru by Hilton in downtown Denver absolutely lived up to expectations. The location is unbeatable, just steps away from the 16th Street Mall, making it super convenient for shopping, dining, and exploring the city. The room was spotless, neatly arranged, and the bed was incredibly comfortable—perfect for a good night’s sleep after a busy day. Everything felt fresh and modern, with that signature Tru hospitality. Booking through the platform was smooth, and the overall experience was seamless. If you're visiting Denver, especially for business or events, this hotel is a solid choice with great value and a welcoming vibe.
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