My friend and I will be spending one night in the Denver area before I head back home from my vacation in Steamboat Springs. I know very little about downtown Denver. We were considering the Courtyard by Marriot because of their summer rates and its proximity to the shopping area. Is this a good choice or is there another place that would be better for us? We'd also consider slightly outside of town if we can get a good rate/nice scenery.

Thank you in advance and YES, I know all about the fires and YES, I am still going.

Last month I spent 2 nights at the Comfort Inn at 401 17th Street, which is but 1 block from the heart of the pedestrian mall and shopping area. It's right across the street from the Brown Palace (and owned by the Palace). Good, clean place with perfect location. I found the best rate on Orbitz, $99

If this is the Courtyard on 16th Street, it's a good choice. Close to the center of downtown, multiple restaurants and bars in walking distance, and on the pedestrian mall. Comfort Inn is also good, just slightly more out of the center of the walking downtown area.

Folks using www.biddingfortravel.com report getting 4-star accommodations in downtown Denver for about $70 a night through Priceline.

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TM glad your coming. The fires will most likley have NO affect on your stay. We were Downtown last night, business as usual. The coutryard is great, nicer than most of the Courtyards I have been to. I would stay DT if at all possible. You will not need a car once your there. Its on the Mall with a free shuttle.

You did not ask, but a recomendation for dinner is the Vesta Dipping Grill or another hot spot is Limes. Limes will not take reservations if your here on a weekend be prepared for a wait. Vestas will take a reservation and is a must for fri sat nights.

Have fun.

Thanks, everyone! Yes, the Courtyard we're interested in is on 16th. I'm calling tonight to book.

Oh, and thanks to Kima for the restaurant recommendations!

T.M.,

I agree that the downtown Courtyard is a good location. While the Comfort Inn is also a good location, the best reason for staying there is that (as Professional Traveler pointed out) it is owned by The Brown Palace Hotel. There is an overpass/walkway leading into The Brown from the CI, which makes it very convenient for you to enjoy the restaurants and other facilities there. Plus you can order room service from The CI and it will be prepared and delivered by The Brown.

Overall, the Courtyard will have nicer rooms than the CI and you will have many restaurant choices at either location (they are only about a mile from one another. If you stay at the Courtyard, make sure and try the Rialto Cafe right next store--great place, neat atmosphere.

Have fun,

David