Colorado Explorer

Lodging

Mamma mia! Every time you turn around, Vail has something new to offer. Now it's the Vail Plaza Hotel & Club, the tony town's newest luxury property. Inspired by the grand hotels of the Italian Alps, it includes 100 guest rooms and 38 suites, multi-bedroom residences and penthouses. There's an on-site spa and fine dining—with upscale Italian-inspired cuisine, of course. 877-888-1540.

If the words "relaxing getaway" don't come to mind when you think of the gaming town of Central City, maybe they should. Consider staying at the Hooper Homestead Guest Quarters, off the beaten path and definitely a calmer atmosphere compared to casino hotels. They have healing spa services, too, in this 1870s home that's decorated in a mix of Victorian and Southwest styles. 866-582-5828.

Linda DuVal is former travel editor of The Gazette in Colorado Springs and a freelance writer.