Poor Farm Guesthouse
If a slower, quieter way of life is what you’re after, it doesn’t get more idyllic than the historic Poor Farm Guesthouse in Salida, Colorado. Owners Shae and Brady of Dram Apothecary were seeking respite from the frenetic pace of the Front Range when they purchased the historic property two years ago. Once a working home for the destitute, the 100-year-old farmhouse has been lovingly brought back to life as an airy, modern space to rest, rejuvenate, and be inspired, all infused with Dram’s natural, holistic approach to life.
“It’s been a place where we could reset and recommit to our dreams, and we hope our guests feel that a bit, too,” says Shae.
Situated along the Arkansas River and neighboring a state wildlife preserve, fishing, hiking and rafting abound. Stunning views of the Collegiate Peaks and an “unbelievable” night sky might tempt you to grab a bottle of wine and soak up the scenery from the privately accessed beach. While nearby Salida has plenty to offer, with shops, restaurants and hot springs, let’s get real: with a guesthouse this heavenly, you may never want to venture out.
@dramapothecary
The Ramble Hotel
When Ryan Diggins, founder of The Ramble Hotel, first dreamed up RiNo’s highly anticipated first hotel, lodging actually came second to his passion for connection and service.
“I wasn’t actually focused on building a hotel; instead, I wanted to create a dynamic community gathering space complemented by a level of all-day hospitality that wasn’t prevalent in Denver at the time,” says Diggins.
It’s safe to say he succeeded. The Ramble takes its inspiration from the French Salons of the 17th century, where community was forged over discussion and sometimes… um, lively (read: rowdy) debate. Situated in the RiNo Arts District, the hotel is designed to be the perfect place to gather and relive a show, gallery, or meal you’ve enjoyed about town—or perhaps within the hotel itself. Death & Co, an award-winning destination in the craft-cocktail scene, has partnered with The Ramble to provide drinks, bites and hospitality throughout, marking their first venture from their East Village flagship in New York. The Ramble is also home to Vauxhall, an independent music theater and venue, and Super Mega Bien, a pan-Latin restaurant led by James Beard-nominated Chef Dana Rodriguez.
Though wholly outfitted with everything you could possibly need, the staff at the Ramble would be the first to encourage you to experience all that RiNo has to offer. Don’t miss First Fridays: on the first Friday of every month, neighborhood businesses (including galleries) play host to events like exhibit openings and live music. Up the ante and take advantage of the complimentary eTuk circulator from Drink RiNo, running 5pm-12am every First Friday. Hop on and off at multiple locations throughout the district, visiting studios, breweries, shops and eateries along the way. Afterward, head back to The Ramble — whether to crash in one of their plush, stylish rooms, grab a chair and plan tomorrow’s gallery visit, or simply grab one last mind-blowing drink from the Death & Co bar.
@theramblehotel
Keystone Keepsake
Escaping to the mountains is a great staycation destination anytime of year, which is why this first-floor townhome in Keystone—that sleeps 10—is a great getaway for families or a big group looking to get out in the great outdoors. With a lovely open-concept living area, the townhome makes for a great vacation destination all year long.
Close to Keystone Lake and Keystone Resort, this three bedroom, three bathroom mountain townhome is a luxury base camp so you can conveniently catch the free shuttle to the Resort’s slopes, trails and spa. If you’re hitting the slopes, Keystone is open for night skiing so you can ditch the crowds (and mountain traffic) and enjoy days of shredding. In the winter enjoy the largest outdoor, Zamboni-maintained ice rink in North America on Keystone Lake right outside your door.
If you’re planning to go to Keystone during the warmer weather, follow Tram Road to Keystone Lake, half a mile away, for paddle boating in the summer. Or head to the Adventure Center and rent bikes to explore the area on two wheels.
For those who wouldn’t consider themselves outdoorsy and are looking for a little peace and quiet, the spa is mere steps away and features a hot tub, steam room, and heated changing rooms. Or check out all of the stores and restaurants along US Highway 6, including the renowned Bighorn Bistro, Edgewater, Café and Pizza on the Plaza.
At the end of each day come home and relax on the back patio overlooking Snake River with a tree-lined mountain view. Even though you’re only hours away from home—you’ll feel like you’ve jumped on a jet plane to an idyllic destination far away from the hustle and bustle.
