A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to attend tea at the Brown Palace Hotel in Denver. This daily affair is steeped in tradition (excuse the pun) and a wonderful way to spend an enjoyable afternoon. If you plan to attend, here are some things you may want to know.
How does it work
Reservations are generally recommended, although you will likely be able to enter without them, especially on a business day. On weekends, the lobby area, which includes a beautiful atrium and a pianist, fills with bridal lunches and other special events. Check in with the host, then take a seat at one of the tables. Enjoy the music, think of the Beatles Imagine piano performances, for example, while your server takes your order. There are two options: one includes tea and a variety of wonderful little bites; the other also includes a glass of champagne.
Children’s prices are also available.
The food
Expect wonderful scones with Devonshire Cream, shipped direct from England, tea sandwiches with ingredients like cheese and cucumber, and a variety of desserts like chocolate cake, truffles and cookies. It is a beautiful place with good food. Take the time to enjoy it.
The tea
The tea list here is two pages long and includes everything from classics like Earl Gray and English Breakfast to more surprising options like pomegranate green tea, vanilla rooibos, and black currant. All teas are served in fine china, perfect for drinking.
The scene
Expect women in fancy hats, bridal lunches, and businessmen working on laptops – the lobby has all kinds of cuts. I went with my 3 year old son and my 7 month old son and they treated me wonderfully. With that said, be prepared to keep a close eye on your kids if you drink them: my 3-year-old tried to run a science experiment with all the little jars and plates; and my 7 month old son sneaked a sugar cube when he wasn’t looking. It is definitely a hands-on experience.
The hotel
Anywhere that greets you at the registration desk with a complimentary glass of champagne is off to a good start in my book, and this downtown Denver hotel with a storied history continued to impress throughout our stay. Brown’s Palace opened in 1892 and has hosted every president from Theodore Roosevelt (with the exception of Calvin Coolidge), the Beatles and the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division, who attempted to rappel from the balconies during their visit to the Second World War. Rumor has it that a tunnel once connected the hotel to a gambling and prostitution shop across the street.
You can learn about the hotel’s history during tours on Wednesdays and Saturdays (free for guests; $ 10 for visitors, donated to local charities). Our room was modern and comfortable, and the on-site restaurants, lovely afternoon tea, gym, spa, and flower shop were ideal for a stroll. The impressive 16th Street Mall is just steps away. Weekend packages start at $ 135.
Location
321 17th St.
Denver is a bustling, interesting, and vibrant great city with a fabulous emphasis on art, culture, music, and food. Stroll through the fantastic 16th Street shopping area or hike in the nearby mountains. Drive to Red Rocks for a picnic or enjoy a delicious breakfast at Snooze. No matter what you’re looking for in Denver, you can find it. It is also a surprisingly affordable city, and airfare from other major cities is usually reasonable. It is fast becoming one of my favorite cities due to the number of attractions it offers, as well as the general atmosphere.
