Quick Info
Character: Historic hotels and hot springs properties. No chains: All independently owned lodging. Book ahead: Ice Festival sells out a year in advance. Hot springs access: Some properties include private soaking.
Ouray's lodging reflects its character: small, independent, and often historic. You won't find chain hotels here—instead, Victorian-era properties, hot springs lodges, and mountain cabins make up the options. This limits choices but ensures authentic mountain-town atmosphere.
Several properties feature their own hot springs access, making the soaking experience private and convenient. For ice climbers, proximity to the Ice Park and gear rental shops matters. The town is walkable regardless of where you stay.
Hot Springs Properties
Wiesbaden Hot Springs Spa & Lodgings: Historic property with its own vapor cave and outdoor pool. Rooms range from basic to upscale. Hot springs access included. Adults-oriented atmosphere. The full hot springs lodge experience.
Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs: Four hillside soaking tubs cascade down the slope. Cozy rooms and cabins. 24-hour hot springs access for guests. More rustic than Wiesbaden, equally atmospheric.
Twin Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs: Larger property with private hot tubs and a shared pool. Standard hotel amenities. Good for families wanting hot springs without the vapor cave vibe.
Historic Hotels
Beaumont Hotel: Grand 1886 Victorian on Main Street. Beautifully restored, full of period character. Spa and dining on-site. The most elegant option in town.
St. Elmo Hotel: Historic 1898 property housing the Bon Ton Restaurant. Simple rooms above fine dining. Walking distance to everything. Old-fashioned mountain hotel charm.
Cabins & Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals and cabins offer more space and privacy. Options range from basic mountain cabins to updated condos. Good for groups and longer stays. Book through standard vacation rental platforms.
Consider location: Some rentals are outside the walkable town core. Check distance to Main Street if you want to walk to restaurants and attractions.
Tips
Ice Festival books out. January Ice Festival week sells out a year or more in advance. If you're planning to attend, book immediately when dates are announced.
Summer is easier. More availability, lower rates, and no festival-driven surge. Shoulder seasons (May, October) offer the best value.
Hot springs properties fill up. Properties with private hot springs are popular. Book early if that access matters to you.
The town is walkable. Wherever you stay in Ouray proper, you can walk to restaurants, shops, and the municipal hot springs. Don't stress about precise location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any chain hotels?
No. All lodging in Ouray is independently owned. The nearest chains are in Montrose, 35 miles away.
How expensive is lodging?
Moderate for Colorado. Expect $150-250/night for most hotels in peak season. Hot springs properties and historic hotels run higher. Summer and shoulder seasons are less.
Best option for families?
Twin Peaks Lodge or vacation rentals. More space, kid-friendly atmosphere, and less adult-oriented than some hot springs properties.
Can I access hot springs without a hot springs hotel?
Yes. The municipal Ouray Hot Springs Pool is public. Wiesbaden offers day passes (call ahead). You don't need to stay at a hot springs property to soak.
What's the best neighborhood to stay?
Ouray is tiny—there are no real neighborhoods. Anywhere in town is walking distance to everything. Just ensure you're in Ouray proper, not Ridgway (10 miles away).