Review of Dog-Friendly Hotel:
The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa
By Susan Bard Hall
The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa in downtown
Denver treats both pets and people like royalty.
It took just four years after the Brown Palace opened in 1892 for the first dog to receive
royal treatment. Historian and Author Corinne Hunt wrote in her book, "The Brown Palace Hotel:
Denver's Grande Dame," that an ailing, wealthy fox terrier from Philadelphia took up residence
in a seven-room suite for an undisclosed period of time. He was accompanied during his stay by
a nursemaid, family friend, and two daughters of his late master who had willed his faithful
companion $50,000 – a hefty inheritance even by today's standards.
While all four-legged guests may not enjoy such an enviable entourage to attend their every want
and need, dogs at the dog-friendly Brown Palace are pampered with creature comforts.
Upon check-in, they receive a "Bone-Appetit" treat especially prepared by the hotel's
creative culinary staff. When requested, a Brown Palace doggie bowl and wrought-iron
dog bed will be set-up for use during their stay.
The Brown Palace's dog-friendly policy is simple: any size dog is welcome to stay in the guestroom
with their owner. A $60 charge, dog registration card, and proof of rabies shot is required at check-in.
Named for its founder Henry C. Brown, the Brown Palace has been welcoming guests every day since
August 12, 1892. Today's travelers enjoy the best of both worlds: ageless amenities and state-of-the-art
services. Artesian water from the hotel's original wells 720 feet deep and recipes for melba toast and
macaroons dating back more than a century have stood the taste test of time. Wireless internet access
and a full-service spa are among the newest services that await guests staying in the 241 guestrooms
and three Presidential Suites.
