The Famous Tradition is a Treat

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to attend high tea at Denver’s Brown Palace Hotel. This daily affair is steeped in tradition (excuse the pun) and a wonderful way to spend a lovely afternoon. If you’re planning to attend, here are some things you may want to know.

How It Works

Reservations are typically recommended; however, you can likely get in without them, particularly on a weekday. On weekends, the lobby area, which includes a gorgeous atrium and a piano player, is filled with bridal luncheons and other special events. Check in with the host and then take your seat at one of the tables. Enjoy the music—think piano renditions of the Beatles’ “Imagine,” for instance—as your server takes your order. There are two options: one includes tea and a variety of wonderful small bites; the other also includes a glass of champagne. Additionally, children’s pricing is available.

The Food

Expect exceptional scones with Devonshire cream—shipped directly from England—tea sandwiches with delightful ingredients such as cheese and cucumber, and an array of desserts like chocolate cake, truffles, and cookies. It’s a beautiful place with stunning food. Take the time to savor the experience.

The Tea

The tea list here is impressively extensive, featuring everything from classics such as Earl Grey and English Breakfast to more surprising options like Pomegranate Green Tea, Vanilla Rooibos, and Black Currant. All of the teas are served in fine China, perfect for sipping.

The Scene

Expect to see women in fancy hats, bridal luncheons, and businessmen working on laptops— the lobby caters to all kinds of patrons. I went with my 3-year-old and my 7-month-old and was treated wonderfully. That said, be prepared to watch your children closely if you bring them: my 3-year-old tried to conduct a science experiment with all the little canisters and dishes, while my 7-month-old managed to snag a sugar cube when I wasn’t looking. It’s definitely a hands-on experience.

The Hotel

Moreover, any place that greets you at the registration desk with a complimentary glass of champagne is off to a fantastic start. This centrally located hotel, rich in history, continued to impress throughout our stay. The Brown Palace, which opened in 1892, has hosted every president since Theodore Roosevelt (with the exception of Calvin Coolidge), the Beatles, and soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division who famously rappelled from the balconies during their World War II-era visit. It’s rumored that a tunnel once connected the hotel to a gambling and prostitution house across the street. You can learn about the hotel’s history during tours held on Wednesdays and Saturdays (free for guests; $10 for visitors, which is donated to local charities). Our room was modern and comfortable, while the on-site restaurants, enchanting afternoon tea, fitness center, spa, and flower shop made for convenient wandering. 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 city that emphasizes art, culture, music, and food. Enjoy a stroll through the fantastic 16th Street shopping area or take a hike in the nearby mountains. Drive out to Red Rocks for a picturesque picnic or savor a delicious breakfast at Snooze. No matter what you’re looking for in Denver, you can find it. Consequently, it is also a surprisingly affordable town, and airfare from other major cities is typically reasonable. It is rapidly becoming one of my favorite cities because of its numerous attractions as well as the overall positive vibe.