Populus

Hotel · Central Business District

3

@afar

"The new Populus Hotel in downtown Denver is billed as the nation’s first carbon-positive hotel, meaning it plans to sequester more carbon than it produces. It’s also a striking new architectural feat with a biophilic design that feels both modern and homey. The white facade of the wedge-shaped building is marked with hundreds of windows in more than 60 rounded shapes meant to mimic the bark of an aspen (known by its scientific name as Populus tremuloides), a tree native to Colorado. The hotel building was created with recycled or low-carbon materials, and it operates with 100 percent wind and solar energy and zero-waste dining. Part of the carbon-positive effort also includes planting tens of thousands of trees across the state every quarter. The arboreal inspiration of the exterior continues inside the hotel—the whole building was designed to feel like climbing a 13-story tree. The lobby, for example, is a re-imagining of a forest floor. The concrete floor is speckled with river pebbles, while the potted plants are the kind that typically provide ground coverage. The front desk is made from a cottonwood tree that fell in the nearby community of Longmont, the walls are decorated with shingles made from pine killed by invasive beetles, and the decorative beams above are reclaimed pieces of snow fencing from Wyoming. Stellar Jay, the rooftop restaurant, by contrast, is based on a tree’s canopy, with wallpaper made of actual leaves, emerald green banquettes, polished wood bistro tables, and views of the city. As a Colorado Springs resident who visits Denver at least once a month for events, I’ve stayed at most of the capital city’s hotels. This is hands down my new favorite, both for overnight stays and for dining, and one of the handful I’ll recommend to visiting friends and family." - Bailey Berg

In-Depth Review of the Populus Hotel in Denver - AFAR

240 14th St, Denver, CO 80202 Get directions

populusdenver.com
@populushotel_denver

3 Postcards

See full details

More Places For You

American Elm

American restaurant · West Highland

American Elm combines a laid-back vibe with elevated comfort food and creative cocktails, all enjoyed under a stunning outdoor elm tree.

12 Postcards

Ajax Downtown

American restaurant · Union Station

Citizen Rail is a trendy spot in the Kimpton Hotel Born, known for its wood-fired dishes and craft cocktails, promising a lively vibe and attentive service.

9 Postcards

Euclid Hall Bar & Kitchen

Bar & grill · Union Station

High-concept eclectic bar bites & a carefully sourced beer list in an industrial-modern pub setting.

3 Postcards

Bao Brewhouse

Asian fusion restaurant · Union Station

A vibrant, two-story gem near Larimer Square, this modern Chinese eatery dazzles with bold dim sum bites and creative cocktails in a trendy setting.

2 Postcards

Bistro Vendôme

French restaurant · Park Hill

Nestled in Larimer Square, Bistro Vendôme is an enchanting Left Bank café where classic French dishes meet a breezy garden vibe.

8 Postcards

Black Sky Brewery

Brewpub · Baker

Black Sky Brewery is a lively craft beer haven in Denver, serving up quirky brews, delicious pizzas, and a metal-infused atmosphere that welcomes all.

1 Postcard

Q House

Asian restaurant · City Park

Tucked away in Denver, this chic spot serves up delightful Chinese dishes and cocktails, making it a beloved gem for intimate dining and fun nights out.

6 Postcards

Kisbee on the Roof

Bar · Cherry Creek

Perched atop the Jacquard Hotel, Kisbee on the Roof offers a stylish escape with craft cocktails, gourmet bites, and stunning sunset views over Denver.

2 Postcards

Spuntino

Italian restaurant · Highland

Spuntino is a cozy gem in the Highlands where a married duo serves inventive Italian dishes infused with Indian flavors, highlighting fresh ingredients and a stellar wine list.

17 Postcards

History Colorado Center

History museum · Capitol Hill

Nestled in Denver's Golden Triangle, the History Colorado Center offers a vibrant, eco-friendly dive into the state's past with engaging, hands-on exhibits for all ages.

3 Postcards