In 1871, local leaders drove a stake into the ground at the present corner of Pikes Peak and Cascade Avenues and mapped out a new city. It would be a destination made to draw residents and visitors to its natural beauty and healthful resort-like amenities and offerings. You might think those city founders looked forward 150-plus years and imaged The Mining Exchange Hotel located just two blocks from that survey stake.
The 128-room boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs blends historic charm and modern chic. The style is elevated without pretense. It’s the kind of hotel that makes you never want to leave your room — or at least not venture beyond the food, drinks and entertainment of its lobby — but puts you in the heart of walkable downtown. We love it for its old soul and new spirit. In fact, we love it for all these reasons:
1. The History
In 1902, Winfield Scott Stratton, the first local miner-turned-millionaire , opened the Mining Exchange. Then it was the hub of financing for the Pikes Peak Gold Rush. A giant trading board listed prices for stocks traded by the gold barons of Cripple Creek and Victor, and it was the largest mining stock exchange in the world for a period until 1925.
Now, details and remnants of that opulent era are still visible throughout The Mining Exchange Hotel that opened in 2012 following a massive restoration. More multimillion-dollar renovations came in 2022 after a change of ownership, delivering elevated updates to its stately style. The two-story lobby is lined with polished marble and original woodwork. The original massive safe that stored gold is still there too, complete with the large spoke wheel on its polished brass door. The trading board above the front desk is replica but lists mining stocks that were traded in the original exchange. The wooden cubbies that hold room keys below the board are original. Rooms boast original brick exterior walls and large wood-trimmed windows. Even the service closets throughout the hallways are former safes where valuables were once stored. Those original barons would feel right at home with the vintage vibes.
2. The Food and Drinks
Let’s start in the lobby. The airy salon-style space is home to Blk Mgk Coffee and Golden Hour Bar. Blk Mgk will carry you morning to midafternoon with a high-craft menu that includes coffee, “potions” and remedy additions, such as lion’s mane and collagen glow. Summer seasonal specials include the Spring Fling Refresher, the Pistachio Peak Latte and a Cherry Blossom Chai. And on the food side, we’re fans of the Avocado Toast, which features Pueblo chile verde.
In the evening, the space transitions to Golden Hour as a comfy gathering space. Order the Nightly Infused Cocktail, infused with herbs, spices or seasonal fruit for a special that glows like the bar’s namesake. Grab a seat in a leather armchair or comfy sofa to raise a happy hour toast.
If you’re hungry, dive in to the range of shareables on the food menu. We recommend the Burrata, which features Colorado winter squash and a blend of berries, candied pepita and more.
Just save room for dinner at Oro. Yes, that’s Italian for gold, and the Mining Exchange’s restaurant delivers a gilded dining experience. The menu is Italian with Colorado flair, filled with many reasons that put Oro on our annual list of Best Restaurants in Colorado Springs. Read more about it in our feature about Oro.
3. The Rooms
These are no cookie-cutter hotel rooms. Thanks to the buildings evolution, The Mining Exchange has plenty of variety among its accommodations. What is consistent is the comfortable furnishings and environment. Guests can choose between Gold, Silver or Bronze rooms ranging from 275 to 500 square feet, or even larger suites. Bold wallpaper patterns add vibrance. High ceilings and large windows welcome natural light, adding warmth reflected by the hardwood floors. Art commissioned by local painter Emma Kelly adorns the walls. And bathrooms boast emerald green and patterned tile. Showers are walk-in, and many rooms include soaking tubs. Pro tip: Try to get a northwestern corner room for a view of Pikes Peak.
4. The Live Music
If you’re there on a Thursday or Sunday night, don’t miss the free live music in the lobby. Thursdays are jazz, a perfect pairing with drinks and bites at Golden Hour. Sundays get extra fun with Band-eoke, karaoke with a live band. Just show up, sign up and sing your favorite song. The audience just might join in. You can always check the schedule here, curated by Dizzy Charlie’s.
5. The Spa
There are many ways to feel pampered at The Mining Exchange. The MX Spa is at the top of the list. Housed in the basement, the spa gives another close-up look at the building’s historic stone and brick. Of course, its highly skilled massage therapists will transport you into blissful oblivion in the cozy space. “It’s like a private hideaway,” says Spa Director Rachael Tarbotton. “The perfect atmosphere where you can escape from reality.”
We enjoyed an MX Signature Massage during our stay — highly recommend! — but there’s a full menu of massages, facias, nail and waxing treatments and more.
Unfortunately, as we publish this, the MX Spa is temporarily closed while it gets its turn for renovation. It was already one of our Best Spas, so we’re excited to see it get even better. Watch for it to reopen soon.
6. The Location
Downtown is the heart of Colorado Springs, and The Mining Exchange Hotel is located at its center. It’s an easy walk or scooter to many of the best restaurants, bars, breweries and entertainment venues in town. Within a 15-minute drive you can be on the trails in Garden of the Gods or North Cheyenne Cañon Park. It’s a perfect location for visitors or locals wanting to enjoy a downtown-based staycation.
Seasonal Specials
Now through September, you can join twice-a-week walking tours through a partnership between The Mining Exchange and the Colorado Springs Pioneers Museum to explore the significance of the America 250 and Colorado 150 anniversaries. Choose a morning tour or an afternoon tour with a post-walk cocktail at Golden Hour. Get tickets and details here.
Midweek Summer Savings mean 30% off Sundays to Thursdays through the end of 2026. And Colorado Locals can get up to 20% off with their Colorado ID.
Get more details and make your own history at miningexchangehotel.com.
