Sonesta Denver Downtown — Urban Oasis with Rooftop Pool Near Denver Zoo

Sonesta Denver Downtown is a vibrant urban hotel that combines contemporary comfort with spectacular city and mountain views, offering excellent access to the Denver Zoo and the city’s most exciting attractions. This welcoming property features unique amenities like a rooftop pool oasis and chef-crafted dining, making it an ideal base for families planning zoo adventures while enjoying Denver’s dynamic downtown energy. The hotel’s unbeatable location and inviting atmosphere create the perfect environment for memorable experiences that seamlessly blend zoo visits with urban exploration and relaxation.

Sonesta Denver Downtown Hotel outdoor pool

Atmosphere and Style

Sonesta Denver Downtown embodies a relaxing yet vibrant urban atmosphere that captures the essence of Denver’s dynamic city spirit while maintaining a cozy, approachable environment perfect for families and solo travelers alike. The hotel creates an inviting social atmosphere with multiple welcoming spaces designed for guests to unwind and connect, complemented by captivating city and mountain views that provide a stunning backdrop to any stay. What distinguishes this property is its unique combination of urban sophistication with genuine warmth, featuring contemporary design elements that reflect Denver’s modern energy while maintaining comfort-focused amenities that make zoo-visiting families feel completely at home.

Rooms and Accommodation

Sonesta Denver Downtown offers comfortable accommodations designed with urban travelers in mind, featuring modern amenities and thoughtful layouts perfect for families planning zoo adventures and cultural explorations. Each room provides complimentary Wi-Fi for researching zoo exhibits and sharing family memories, while the contemporary furnishings create comfortable retreats after active days exploring Denver’s attractions. The accommodations are designed to maximize comfort and functionality, with ample space for luggage and zoo souvenirs, and many rooms offer the captivating city and mountain views that make mornings special and provide beautiful backdrops for family vacation photos.

Sonesta Denver Downtown Room with a large double bed
Sonesta Denver Downtown Room with bed and desk
Sonesta Denver Downtown Double room
Sonesta Denver Downtown Bedroom with large TV

Facilities and Services

The hotel excels in providing distinctive amenities including the spectacular outdoor pool oasis that offers panoramic views of Denver’s skyline, creating a unique resort-like experience in the heart of downtown perfect for family relaxation after zoo visits. The Lockwood Kitchen and Bar serves chef-crafted fare that caters to diverse tastes, ideal for families with different dining preferences returning from zoo adventures. Additional facilities include a modern fitness center for maintaining exercise routines and various inviting social spaces throughout the property where families can plan their next day’s zoo itinerary while enjoying the vibrant downtown atmosphere.

Free parking

Free Wi-Fi

Air conditioning

Great breakfast

Fitness center

Swimming pool

Restaurant

Bar

Location

Sonesta Denver Downtown enjoys an unbeatable location just 5 minutes’ walk from the Colorado Convention Center, placing guests within easy reach of the Denver Zoo via public transportation or a convenient 15-minute drive. The hotel provides prime access to popular attractions including the lively LoDo neighborhood for dining and entertainment, while famous sports arenas like Coors Field and Ball Arena are nearby for additional family entertainment options. The downtown location offers numerous restaurants and cultural attractions within walking distance, making it easy for families to combine zoo visits with exploration of Denver’s rich urban landscape.

Who It’s Perfect For

This hotel is ideal for families with children planning Denver Zoo visits who appreciate unique amenities like the rooftop pool with skyline views and chef-crafted dining that elevates the family vacation experience. Solo travelers particularly love the location, rating it an exceptional 9.2 points for single-person stays, thanks to the vibrant downtown atmosphere and social spaces that encourage connection and exploration. Business travelers benefit from the convention center proximity and professional amenities, while urban adventure seekers enjoy being in the heart of Denver’s most dynamic neighborhood with easy access to both zoo attractions and city experiences.

Sonesta Denver Downtown Hotel lobby with fireplace

Guest Reviews

Guests consistently praise the hotel’s unbeatable downtown location and unique rooftop pool experience, particularly highlighting the panoramic Denver skyline views that create memorable moments for families visiting from the zoo. The Lockwood Kitchen and Bar receives positive reviews for its chef-crafted cuisine and welcoming atmosphere perfect for post-zoo family dinners. Visitors frequently mention the hotel’s vibrant yet relaxing environment and the various inviting spaces that make it easy to socialize and plan Denver adventures. With a solid 7.8 overall rating, guests regularly commend the perfect combination of urban energy, family-friendly amenities, and spectacular views.

Lancaster

The bed and the comfort of the room temperature were exceptional. I loved the convenience of getting to local nightlife, and being close to public transportation to go enjoy The Denver Broncos game, which is less than two miles away.

Helen

Location is really fantastic, walkable to convention center and 16th street entertainment and food. Pool is small but cozy and lots of places to lounge or eat al fresco we did some work outside. I had an issue with a room and they did respond.

Elisabeth

Excellent location, right off the 16th Street Mall. Fridge provided in room. Friendly staff. The restaurant was surprisingly good. Comfy bed!

Sonesta Denver Downtown Hotel restaurant

Practical Information

The hotel operates with standard hospitality hours and policies, with staff available to provide recommendations for zoo visits and local attractions. Pet policies should be confirmed directly with the hotel for families traveling with animals to the zoo. The Lockwood Kitchen and Bar provides on-site dining options, though meal inclusion varies by booking package. The outdoor pool operates seasonally during summer months, providing perfect timing for families visiting Denver Zoo during the optimal weather period when both the zoo and pool can be enjoyed to their fullest.

Conclusion

Sonesta Denver Downtown offers a distinctive urban hotel experience with exceptional access to Denver Zoo and unique amenities like a rooftop pool oasis with skyline views that set it apart from conventional downtown accommodations. The outstanding 9.2 location rating from solo travelers, chef-crafted dining, vibrant social atmosphere, and unbeatable downtown position make this hotel perfect for families seeking memorable zoo adventures combined with sophisticated urban experiences and spectacular mountain and city views.