The Mining Exchange Hotel sits in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs, serving as a historic, revamped reminder that now matter how drastically the city has changed since its early prospecting days, some things have remained the same. Its name is a nod to the Centennial State’s “gilded past” — this property dates back to 1902, having originally served as the city’s stock exchange for precious gold and silver in its heyday. Back then, it quickly became a local hangout spot for those seeking to strike it rich (and those already wealthy). Inside, the atmosphere is ritzy and refined but not unapproachable. Stepping into the lobby is like partaking in a living history film as it’s playing out right in front of your eyes.
Photo courtesy the mining exchange hotel
This Recently Revamped Colorado Springs Hotel Strikes Gold For Travelers
Visitors check in and out at the regal front desk, made of strong dark wood and complemented by a brick backdrop dotted with real keys (but you’ll get an electronic key card, one of the many modernities this property has incorporated into its contemporary offerings). The floor-to-ceiling windows in the lobby let in an abundance of sunlight, which brightens the space and makes it feel warm, airy and welcoming. Being inside this building feels like entering into a more sophisticated, traditional era of travel — almost as if I should’ve worn my finest “dress clothes” (instead of my yoga pants).
The lobby is an enormous, open room furnished with a collection of various cozy but classy seating arrangements. It’s more like an opulent version of a community living room than a hotel lobby. Other timeless design elements like hardwood floors and exposed brick make the space feel smart and elegant. Also, in the lobby, folks can find a collection of historic artifacts, such as mining stock certificates, to see into the living history of this transformed space.
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I appreciated how the redesign team was mindful to preserve the elements on-site that made the original property special, such as the vault doors, which have been transformed into modern day “housekeeping supply vault” doors.
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Dining and drinking at The Mining Exchange Hotel
Photo courtesy The Mining Exchange Hotel
There are currently two newly unveiled food and beverage concepts at The Mining Exchange Hotel, with still more to come in the future. Visitors can quench their thirst for a craft cocktail at Golden Hour, with decor that’s said to be inspired by the gilded era of this building back when it was a buzzing stock exchange. This venue encompasses an abundance of indoor and outdoor space. One side of Golden Hour’s bar is indoors — and its counterpart on the other side of the wall is outdoors, in the courtyard. The ambiance in both areas draws inspiration from the peaceful, enlightening feeling experienced when the light shines into the space at the “golden hour” times of day, surrounding sunrise and sunset.
The brick-bound, gold-accented indoor bar sparkles (literally and figuratively) with a menu of craft cocktails, beer, and wine alongside a selection of bites ranging from light options such as a charcuterie board to a full meal, like a cheeseburger.
Those seeking fresh air can sip al fresco surrounded by stone and brick in the alleyway on the other side of the lobby’s walls. The gorgeous courtyard space out back is intimate and secluded but spacious enough to soak in the night’s fresh air — I didn’t want to leave it. On Thursdays, jazz fans can revel in live jazz music hosted in partnership with Dizzy Charlie’s — a local music curator that organizes jazz pop-ups throughout Colorado Springs.
Caffeine fix at BLK MGK
Photo courtesy the mining exchange hotel
Open from 6 AM to- 4 PM daily, the property’s on-site coffee bar, BLK MGK, feels like more than just a standard coffee shop. And it does serve as more than just a coffee shop when the space hosts events like weekly programming including ”aura and astrology” readings and guided coffee tastings.
The shop proudly uses locally roasted beans sourced from Hold Fast Coffee Co., an innocent sort of contraband they appropriately label as the “other black gold.” Visitors can choose from a diverse breakfast and lunch menu that features a range of choices from standard drip coffee to seasonal lattes (they call these “potions”) with fun flavors. I had the “pumpkin s’mores” seasonal latte, and it did not disappoint. There are also fresh pastries, small bites and sandwiches like the “Tiramisu Brioche” which is topped with whipped ricotta, coffee cream and cocoa, and Jambon Beurre — and a generous menu of cooked-to-order breakfast and lunch selections.
My personal favorite part of the selection were these offerings that make this spot feel a bit more unique than just a standard coffee stop. The “tincture menu” lineup features a selection of everyday remedies, like “detoxing” activated charcoal drinks and “tummy tame” assorted bitters, which can be added to any beverage.
Even though I’m trying to do Sober September (so I didn’t really require this particular concoction this time around), I tried the “Hangover Helper Latte,” which is made with a slightly sweet and soulful blend of Earl Grey tea, steamed almond milk, and charcoal foam. Those who do desire to imbibe can try one of their coffee-based cocktails or locally sourced craft beers and wines by the glass.
Both of these dining and drinking establishments are open to the public to enjoy with no reservation needed. While I was there, it was nice to see this space is clearly a hangout spot where locals come to spend time and grab a drink for a classy night out on the town.
Guest rooms at The Mining Exchange Hotel
Photo courtesy the mining exchange hotel
Photo courtesy the mining exchange hotel
There are 128 recently revamped guestrooms that pay homage to the history of this storied destination, with rates from $230 per night. I was in awe at the high ceilings, white oak flooring, and large double-paned windows (don’t worry, the outdoor elements won’t get to you, here, despite the property’s golden oldie age), which made my room feel bigger and brighter. The exposed brick and naturally inspired art add a touch of nostalgia — and each guest room features its own commissioned work of art from native Colorado Springs plein air painter Emma Kelly.
I was told there are six different types of wallpaper that cover the wall space behind the beds, too, meaning you could stay overnight six different times, and have a completely different guest room experience during each visit. The timeless but traditional furniture in each room includes pieces such as custom wingback armchairs, colorful rugs, sturdy oak desks, a Victrola Bluetooth speaker (I loved how the radio was set on a local radio station when I walked into my room), a flatscreen television, and comfortable, clean beds.
The bathrooms — which I’ve heard claim to be “Insta-worthy” and do say I agree based on my experience — are adorned with vibrant green porcelain tilework, marble-topped vanities, bronze fixtures, a sleek walk-in shower, and sometimes even a delightful soaking tub. Room categories are labeled “Bronze, Silver, and Gold” as they relate to their square footage, in tribute to some of the minerals that originally made this region notorious.
On-site programming, activations, and amenities
Photo courtesy the mining exchange hotel
This property will also be a space for local artists to showcase their work, in “The Vault” — an on-site, rotating art gallery. It’s currently a stop on the city’s year-round First Friday gallery tour. Art enthusiasts who want to make their stay exceptionally special can purchase the “Peaks & Paintbrushes” package to indulge in a self-guided art experience inspired by the work of Emma Kelly and other original plein air artists. Upon check-in, they’ll get art supplies and suggestions for specific picturesque spots across Colorado Springs to paint.
Crystal nerds like me will agree with one of my favorite potential parts of a visit — the “crystal concierge.” This in-room wellness inclusion is the opportunity to personalize your stay and add a touch of magic to the experience. Guests just stop by the front desk or call down to request a healing stone to be delivered to their room, which they can keep for their stay (many of which were locally mined in Colorado).
For a more literal and less metaphysical sort of healing service, there’s a full-service spa nestled underneath the hotel offering more traditional “potions and remedies” for visitors and locals, including massage treatments, nail services, a steam room and sauna, and a salon. The existing full-service spa is currently open, but it’s also set for an upcoming refresh. Adjacent to the spa, there’s a compact underground fitness center for those who want to get in an indoor workout while on the road.
Photo courtesy the mining exchange hotel
Pet-friendliness
I brought my pup to experience this storied property with me, and I think he had just as much fun as I did. When we arrived at our room, dog treats and bowls were waiting for us to use throughout our stay. Even though we self-parked, the valet folks were incredibly kind when we walked into the lavish lobby space and asked if they could give him a treat (how could I say no?).
I actually forgot the dog bed I had brought with me from home in the room — and I didn’t realize it until we got back to my apartment in Denver. But I called the hotel, and they set it aside so I could drive back and pick it up the next day. Luckily, Denver is just about an hour north of Colorado Springs, so it wasn’t too much of a trek — but my dog wasn’t very happy to be without his bed for even just a single night, so I’m very grateful their on-site team for being mindful enough not to get rid of the dog bed as soon as we’d departed.
Other things to do in town
This property is located in a location that’s central to everything a visitor would likely want to explore while visiting town. It’s 15 minutes from Garden of the Gods, 20 minutes from the new Ford Amphitheater, 70 minutes from the tip of Pikes Peak, and walkable to the many shops and restaurants of downtown such as The Exchange On Tejon—which is one of my favorite coffee shops on this Earth. I’d recommend a stay for those who want a staycation, are traveling for a vacation, or just seek a unique upscale overnight experience in downtown Colorado Springs. 