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Travelers planning to visit Colorado Springs want to take advantage of this Colorado city’s amazing attractions, and so they are searching for a fantastic location and a great price. I recently discovered another budget-friendly Colorado Springs hotel perfect for families: the Alta Hotel (formerly the Hotel Eleganté Conference & Event Center). Read on for reasons why you should book your next family vacation here.
Hotel Eleganté Conference & Event Center, Exterior Porte Cochere at dusk of Crowne Plaza Colorado Springs Hotel
Since I live in Colorado, I’m lucky enough to explore my state and experience all types of Colorado hotels, from 5-star luxury to simple accommodations. Since I travel often with my multigenerational family, I’m always on the lookout for budget-friendly Colorado hotels that are also family-friendly. Since Colorado Springs is one of our favorite family vacation destinations, when I discover a hotel that fits all that and more, I want to share it with our Hotel-Scoop readers (although part of me wants to keep it secret…).
On my way to one of our family’s favorite luxury Colorado Springs hotel, The Broadmoor, I’d always glanced at the Alta Hotel located on the same I-25 Lake Avenue (Exit 138), but I hadn’t given it much thought until my recent visit with the multigenerational family. Although luxury hotels are awesome, sometimes the budget doesn’t quite fit, so a budget-friendly hotel adjoining rooms with a full set of amenities allows our family to take advantage of the many Colorado Springs attractions. And did I mention this is a pet-friendly hotel?
Arrival at the Alta Hotel
Just 90 minutes south of Denver, Colorado Springs is an amazing family vacation, and it’s a straight shot down I-25 south of the Colorado Springs airport. We locked in the address in GPS which took us a roundabout way (through some perhaps shady areas). Stick to the interstate, exit 138 on Lake Avenue and turn left. The Hotel Elegante is minutes from I-25.
I admit the entrance is a little overstated, but parking is free and the hotel entrance is a short walk. When we arrived on mid-day, we took a chance on early check-in at 1pm…but weren’t successful. The reception desk staff were friendly and informative. We selected adjoining rooms for our six multi-gen family members (including four grandchildren ages 18 months to 14 years) and opted to visit the lobby bar/restaurant while we waited. The grandkids were hungry.
The Lobby Area of the Hotel Elegante
In one word, massive. Spreads across the entire first floor. True, it’s somewhat dated…dark wood, shadowy. My daughter-in-law and I likened it to an old-style casino (without the gambling). But what the lobby does offer is plenty of space to sprawl. Large over-stuffed dark leather couches and chairs. A restaurant on one end, bar and casual dining on the other, and then a hallway leading to event space as well as the most awesome ice cream parlor with a Starbucks.
The elevator is toward the back of the lobby, while the far left side is an entertainment area for the kids and slightly farther left is the indoor pool.
Alta Hotel Accommodations Perfect For Families
Not many hotels offer affordable adjoining rooms, but the Alta Hotel does — and even includes a microwave and mini-fridge. These are both important when you have the toddler and kids who want snacks and need drinks (including milk refills for bottles).
The rooms were comfortable — and I literally sank into the beds. The air conditioning unit was a bit chilly at night, but a simple turn of the switch brought it to a comfortable level for us.
The adjoining rooms were amazing as we could move back and forth as a family, and when the baby was ready for sleep (or Grandma), all we had to do was gently close the door.
Dining Options at the Alta Hotel
Did I mention ice cream? I can tell you that my 5 year-old-granddaughter was all about the ice cream the moment we entered the lobby. Sweet Tooth dishes up Colorado City Creamery, a local ice cream shop with cones, sundaes or shakes, but it also features colorful candy jars for kids and fresh-brewed Starbucks coffee. It’s also a great place to grab a quick sandwich or snack.
I can’t help my Iowa roots as I love dining at local cafes with comfort food. Also located in the lobby is the Rustlers Country Cafe including my fav Chicken Fried Steaks. Bonus: kids 12 and under EAT FREE with the purchase of an adult meal.
Since we were on a mission to enjoy the local attractions, we more often dined al fresco at the Rawhide Sports Bar. The kids loved the pizza and my daughter-in-law raved about the chicken wrap.
Other Amenities at the Alta Hotel
We are all about the pool, and the Alta offers both an indoor and outdoor pool. Let’s just say that sealed the deal for the grandkids.
Room rates start as low as $110. You can also compare rates at Expedia, Hotels.com or Travelocity.
Accommodations courtesy of Hotel Elegante & Visit Colorado Springs, although opinions expressed are my own. Photos courtesy of Diana Rowe & Alta Hotel.
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