By Ruth Pankratz
Nestled in Estes Park, Colorado, the Stanley Hotel offers 138 guestrooms located in the main hotel and Manor House, breathtaking mountain views and a rich history. Multiple event rooms are available, each providing ample space and diverse use options such as the elegant Music Room and the casual Library. The Stanley Hotel provides a historic setting for weddings,
romantic getaways and Ghost Tours that include a visit to the infamous room #217 from Stephen King's "The Shining."
Wows and Woes
The hotel is a historic site without air conditioning. Opening the room window in the early morning or after sunset will typically cool the room quickly. Only a few rooms in the hotel offer glorious mountain views; if that is an important feature be sure to communicate clearly while making reservations. The room rates are priced a little high for the Estes Park area but the hotel history, restaurant option and outdoor views are worth the extra cost.
Insider Tips
The Stanley Hotel is not completely modernized with the latest technology and interior. The hotel is located close to downtown Estes Park, so guests are not restricted to only shopping and eating at the hotel. Events held during peak seasons, such as weddings in the spring and summer, have a better option of running smoothly and being properly staffed.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
On one of our many visits to The Stanley Hotel, in a five-hour span, it was sunny and warm; then it snowed (with several inches of accumulated snow). In the morning it was very warm, by lunchtime it was cool and in the afternoon it snowed. By the evening there was enough snow to warrant boots! The crazy Colorado weather can be fun to watch from The Stanley Hotel's large porch.
Bottom Line
The Stanley Hotel has continued to work on staff and hospitality improvements. This unique hotel typically offers friendly service, rich history and comfortable, clean rooms.
About the Author:
Ruth Pankratz has extensive writing and editing experience in marketing, résumés, letters, Web content, business development, social media and promotional materials. Her work has been published in diverse industries. Pankratz earned her bachelor's degree in communications from Kennesaw State University and her Master of Business Administration from Colorado State University.
