Step inside the new Hotel Polaris and into a different world. This is no run-of-the-mill lodging—it’s a stunning resort-style hotel situated just feet from the bustling north gate of the United States Air Force Academy.
Designed in the post-World War II, midcentury-modern style to mirror the award-winning architecture of the adjacent Academy, the hotel encompasses “a lot of glass, a lot of concrete and a lot of wood,” says Kevin Barosso, director of sales and marketing.
Oh... and a lot of color.
Each Academy cadet class has a color: blue, red, gold or silver. The hotel embraces those symbolic hues throughout—in the tiles framing the three entrances, in the custom carpeting, in the event spaces and in each of the 375 rooms.
The Amenities
It is the city’s second-largest hotel, after the Broadmoor.
“There’s nothing on the north end like this,” Barosso says.
Outdoor pool with cabanas and a sun deck. Sprawling plaza with grassy areas. On-site docents who will share facts and stories about the Air Force Academy. About 40,000 square feet of customizable indoor and outdoor event spaces. A full-service spa and fitness center. Six restaurants and bars. A lighted bocci ball court that will double in the winter as a mini curling court.
And… wait for it… the only in-hotel flight simulators in the United States. The three simulators—two F16s and one Boeing 737—are housed on the lower level and available to rent in 30-minute increments for individuals, birthday parties, corporate events and more.
“They are the actual cockpits of the planes,” Barosso says. “It is a real, immersive experience.”
The hotel also is connected by a bridge to the Hosmer Visitor Center, scheduled to open later this year.
Food + Beverages
The restaurants and bars range from full-service to grab-and-go, with everything in between.
“We expect a very large local crowd,” Barosso says. “We want to be open to all.”
Pamela’s, one of five dining experiences on the lobby level, offers all-day brunch and dinner in the evenings and has plenty of indoor and outdoor seating. It features regional American cuisine, such as cioppino from the Bay area, chowders from the Northeast, seafood and other delicacies.
“It’s ... reflective of the best of America,” Barosso says.
Others on the lobby level include the Thunderbird Bar, Backyard Bites outside near the plaza and pool, The Grab-and-Go Café and Doolies—a casual, family-friendly, soda shop-style diner.
And… perched atop the nine-story building: The Aviator Rooftop Bar. Quintessential midcentury-modern egg-shaped chairs hanging from the ceiling. Indoor and outdoor seating with sweeping views of the Academy and the Rockies. Craft cocktails and mocktails. Shareable appetizers.
“We anticipate this being a really popular spot,” Barosso says.
Executive Chef Ken Butler, a Colorado native, leads the culinary team. He has traveled the world in search of flavorful combinations—a journey that ultimately led him back to Colorado.
“From Palisade peaches to Olathe corn, Rocky Ford cantaloupe and the endless farm-raised game and beef, Colorado truly is a bounty of incredible foods,” Butler says.
Rooms + Suites
Ever wondered what it’s like to walk through hallowed halls of the dorms at USAFA? Take a stroll down the halls of Hotel Polaris—they are purposefully reminiscent (albeit more upscale) of the Academy’s two cadet living quarters buildings: Vandenberg Hall and Sijan Hall. Room entrances, for instance, are arranged in a “quad” pattern—hall, wider space with four doors, hall, wider space with four doors.
Have guests in town? Planning a staycation? The 375 guest rooms sport a beautiful balance of form and function, with generous windows, warm wood tones, period-inspired lighting, aviation-inspired art and various extras, like Lavazza coffee makers.
Looking for something extraordinary? Take a peek at the 888-square-foot Summit View Suites or “The Boss” Superintendent Suite, a 1200-square-foot masterpiece with a coat closet, bar and dining room, living room, separate bedroom, wrap-around balcony and more.
Each suite has the option of connecting to a double queen room. All suites, plus club-level rooms on the top floor have access to an exclusive lounge with breakfast, all-day snacks, evening appetizers and cocktails and other perks. Any room can be upgraded to club level for $150 per day.
Spa
Ascend Spa & Wellness, tucked into the northwest corner of the property, has an identity all its own. Pass through the doors and into tranquility. A fitness center and full menu of spa services are just the beginning here. There are also on-site classes, outdoor adventures and special events.
And perhaps the best part? A peaceful indoor/outdoor relaxation area just for Ascend patrons.
Website: https://www.thehotelpolaris.com/
Facebook: @HotelPolarisCO
Instagram: @HotelPolaris_CO
“We expect a very large local crowd. We want to be open to all.”