Quick Info
Options: Boutique hotels, motels, vacation rentals, camping. Best location: Downtown for walkability. Peak season: Summer weekends, Art Walk, ski season. Book ahead: Events fill the town quickly.
Salida offers lodging options ranging from historic downtown hotels to vacation rentals in residential neighborhoods. The walkable downtown means staying centrally puts you within steps of restaurants, galleries, and the river.
Unlike resort towns, Salida doesn't have massive hotel developments. Lodging tends toward smaller properties with character, reflecting the town's creative personality.
Downtown Lodging
Boutique Hotels
Several small hotels occupy historic downtown buildings. Character-filled rooms with modern amenities. Walking distance to everything. The premium choice for those prioritizing location and experience.
The SteamPlant
Some lodging options near or associated with the SteamPlant Event Center. Unique setting in the converted power plant area.
Downtown Advantage
Stay downtown and walk to dinner, galleries, and the river. No need to drive after a day of adventure. This is how to experience Salida properly.
Motels
Independent motels along Highway 50 offer budget-friendly options. Basic but functional. Good for those prioritizing value over atmosphere.
Pros: Affordable, easy parking, straightforward.
Cons: Less walkable to downtown, less character.
Vacation Rentals
Airbnb and VRBO listings throughout Salida and surrounding areas. Houses, cabins, and apartments. Good for groups, families, or longer stays needing kitchen and space.
Downtown rentals: Some options within walking distance of F Street. Best of both worlds—space and walkability.
Out-of-town: Cabins and homes in more secluded settings. Requires driving but offers quiet and views.
Camping
National Forest
San Isabel National Forest surrounds Salida with numerous camping options. Developed campgrounds and dispersed camping available.
Private Campgrounds
RV parks and campgrounds with full hookups and amenities closer to town.
Riverside
Some camping options along the Arkansas River. Check current availability and regulations.
When to Book
Art Walk weekends: Second Saturday fills hotels. Book well ahead if visiting for Art Walk.
Summer weekends: Peak season. Reservations recommended.
FIBArk: The whitewater festival sells out town. Book months ahead.
Ski season: Monarch Mountain skiers stay in Salida. Winter weekends can fill.
Midweek: Easier availability and sometimes better rates.
Tips
Stay downtown if possible. The walkability transforms the experience. Worth the potential premium.
Book ahead for events. Art Walk and FIBArk especially. Don't assume availability.
Consider Buena Vista. 20 minutes away if Salida is full. Different vibe but good alternative.
Ask about ski packages. Some lodging offers deals with Monarch Mountain lift tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there chain hotels?
Limited. Salida's lodging is mostly independent properties. A few chains exist but the town is known for character over corporate consistency.
Is Salida expensive?
Moderate. Cheaper than resort towns like Aspen or Telluride, more expensive than non-destination towns. Reasonable for what you get.
Can I walk everywhere?
From downtown lodging, yes—restaurants, galleries, river, and some trailheads. Outlying accommodations require driving.
Should I stay in Salida or Buena Vista?
Salida for arts, dining, and downtown walkability. Buena Vista for rafting focus and hot springs. Both are good bases for the Arkansas Valley.
What about pet-friendly options?
Some properties allow pets. Vacation rentals often more accommodating than hotels. Check policies when booking.