Got $200 Million Lying Around? Denver’s Brown Palace Is Apparently for Sale

Denver’s Historic Brown Palace Hotel Officially Hits the Market

One of Denver’s most iconic landmarks may soon have new ownership. The historic Brown Palace Hotel and Spa — a staple of downtown Denver since the 1800s — has officially been listed for sale, according to commercial real estate firm Newmark.

While the listing has been confirmed, details about the potential sale remain limited. Newmark declined to provide additional information and directed questions to the current ownership group, Crescent Real Estate. Representatives for Crescent and the Brown Palace have not publicly commented on the listing, and the asking price for the property has not been disclosed.

Crescent Real Estate purchased the Brown Palace in 2018 for approximately $125 million, acquiring both the historic hotel and the nearby Holiday Inn Express property as part of the deal. The purchase was seen as a major investment in one of Denver’s most recognizable and historic hospitality properties.

Opened in 1892, the Brown Palace has long been considered one of the crown jewels of downtown Denver. The hotel is famous for its distinctive triangular architecture, grand eight-story atrium lobby, and long list of famous guests over the decades — including presidents, celebrities, and international dignitaries. It has remained in near continuous operation for more than 130 years, making it one of the oldest operating hotels in the western United States.

Over the years, the property has undergone multiple renovations and ownership changes while maintaining its historic character. The hotel is also known for traditions like afternoon tea in the atrium and its long-standing reputation as a luxury destination in the city.

The decision to list the property comes during a period of transition for the hospitality industry and downtown Denver, where several large commercial properties have recently changed hands or been placed on the market.

For now, the Brown Palace continues normal operations while the sales process unfolds. Whether the next owner plans to preserve the historic hotel exactly as it stands or introduce new changes remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that one of Denver’s most storied buildings is once again entering a new chapter.