When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace
Why The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace offers an exquisite setting ideal for gathering with friends, combining historic grandeur with a vibrant social atmosphere. Located in the heart of downtown Denver within the iconic Brown Palace Hotel—a landmark with over 130 years of storied history—the Atrium boasts a spacious, stately design featuring a stunning stained-glass ceiling and an expansive American flag suspended above its open space. The elegant ambiance is enriched by live piano music, often performed by the resident pianist John Kite, who provides an engaging mix of melodic entertainment and fascinating historical storytelling. Visitors can savor the tradition of Afternoon Tea, enjoying finely brewed English teas accompanied by scones with Devonshire cream, savory tea sandwiches, and classic pastries, all set against the Atrium’s impressive architecture. By evening, the adjoining Palace Bar offers a sophisticated menu of cocktails, wines, charcuterie, and innovative dishes paired with live performances by the John Kite Jazz Quartet, creating a lively and memorable experience. Friendly and attentive staff further enhance the atmosphere, making it a refined yet comfortable environment perfect for socializing, pre-show gatherings, or leisurely afternoons with friends in a location just steps away from Denver’s Paramount Theatre.
Here's what people think of The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace
As of recent, The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace holds a 4.3-star rating based on 388 reviews.
Overall, The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace enjoys a strong reputation, reflected by a solid 4.3-star rating from nearly 400 reviews. Guests consistently praise the elegant and historic atmosphere of the Atrium, highlighting the beautiful stained-glass ceiling, impressive decor, and the unique experience of live piano and jazz music. Positive reviews emphasize the quality of service, with staff members being described as friendly and attentive, contributing to an inviting environment. The tradition of Afternoon Tea is frequently noted as a delightful and quintessentially refined activity that adds to the venue’s charm. Moreover, many appreciate the convenient downtown location, ideal for combining a visit to the Atrium with other local attractions like the Paramount Theatre. On the downside, some reviews touch on the overall hotel having certain dated areas or inconsistent service experiences in other parts of the facility, though this tends to be less frequently mentioned specifically in relation to the Atrium itself. A few patrons mention the pricing as somewhat high, reflecting the luxury nature of the setting. In conclusion, while minor criticisms exist, the majority of visitors regard The Grand Atrium as a premier spot for elegant socializing, live music enjoyment, and memorable gatherings with friends in a historic Denver landmark.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kate L
Stunning!! We loved going to tea time. The tea selection was vast. The food was delicious. The staff was so friendly and attentive. They had a pianist playing which was a great touch. We enjoyed it so much. The setting is gorgeous as well. It is a little pricey but totally worth it.
Zac Lucero
A Truly Charming Afternoon Tea Experience We visited The Brown Palace for Afternoon Tea in their beautiful multi-story atrium and had a truly lovely time. The ambiance was elegant and relaxing, making it the perfect setting for a special outing. The scones were tasty, but the real standouts were the tea sandwiches and pastries—each one was delicious and beautifully presented. My favorite tea was Jane’s Garden, though every blend we tried was enjoyable. Highly recommend for a classic and memorable tea experience!
Eleen Baumann
My daughter took me to the Brown Palace for tea to celebrate my birthday. We were very satisfied with the food, the service and the lovely atmosphere of the hotel atrium. The scones were particularly good. We opted for the $90 tea option that came with a delicious glass of Chandon bubbly - an excellent complement to the tea offerings. The server was pleasant and did a fine job describing the items being served as well as explaining the tea choices. We requested some vegetarian sandwichs with no difficulty. Live piano music added to our dining experience. If you are interested in an afternoon tea, I highly recommend the Brown Palace.
Francesca Starr
I'm a Denver native and Afternoon Tea at the Brown continues to be a major tradition for special family gatherings. We took a sister and niece to celebrate a special visit from their native Hawaii. It was the best food, tea, and especially service we've ever had there. Our Host was very welcoming and made a point of accommodating our request for a more private table, so we could catch up with each other. Our Server was Hiwat, who was so warm, gracious and professional - her presence matched the elegance and class of the Brown. The tea was hot and flavorful. The sandwiches and deserts were fresh and we especially loved the scones with plenty of Devon creme and lemon curd. Thanks for a magical time! Of course, we will be back!
Derek Labian
We enjoyed the afternoon tea in this lovely old-world hotel with a live piano player. The setting is beautiful, you dine in the atrium and lobby of the historic Brown Palace Hotel; it does bring you back to another time. The food was good but not great, the tea was excellent, and the selection of teas was large. The staff was reserved and proper but friendly, which seems fitting for afternoon tea. The piano player is a pleasant addition. If you're looking for an elegant afternoon tea, you will enjoy this.
How to reach The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace
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Why The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why Rally at This Place with Your Friends?
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace is an ideal spot to gather with friends or family, offering a unique blend of elegance, historical charm, and entertainment. Located in the heart of Denver, this iconic venue is a must-visit for anyone looking to create memorable experiences. The stunning architecture, complete with a breathtaking stained-glass ceiling, provides a picturesque backdrop for any gathering. Whether you're interested in enjoying a casual afternoon tea, indulging in delightful desserts, or simply savoring the ambiance with live music, The Grand Atrium offers a versatile setting that caters to diverse tastes and preferences. Its proximity to other major attractions, such as the Paramount Theatre, makes it an excellent choice for a pre-show dinner or a post-show gathering. The friendly and attentive staff ensure that every visitor feels welcome and cared for, contributing to the overall positive atmosphere.
What Activities Are Available at The Grand Atrium?
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace offers a variety of activities that make it perfect for group meetups. Here are some reasons why:
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Afternoon Tea Experience: The Grand Atrium is renowned for its traditional Afternoon Tea service, which includes a selection of teas, delicate sandwiches, scones, and sweet treats. This is a great way to bond over a leisurely meal, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and discussing life's highlights. The tea service is often accompanied by live music, adding to the sophisticated ambiance. Guests can relish the opportunity to try different teas and enjoy the company of friends or family in a relaxed setting.
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Live Music and Entertainment: The resident pianist, John Kite, is a highlight of the experience, providing not only beautiful music but also engaging stories about the hotel's rich history. This element of entertainment ensures that there is always something interesting to talk about, making the gathering more enjoyable and memorable.
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Dining Options: Beyond afternoon tea, The Grand Atrium offers an impressive selection of desserts and light meals. Guests can enjoy decadent treats like the Cookies n Cream Cheesecake, which combines Oreos with creamy cheesecake, making it a delightful choice for any dessert lover.
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Historical and Architectural Significance: The Brown Palace itself is a piece of history that guests can explore. The hotel's grandeur and the atrium's stunning architecture offer plenty of opportunities for photos and exploration, making it a great place to explore with friends.
Is It Perfect for a Group Meetup?
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace is indeed perfect for a group meetup due to several factors:
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Versatility: The venue is suitable for both formal and casual gatherings. Whether you're looking to enjoy a sophisticated afternoon tea or simply meet for drinks and appetizers, The Grand Atrium accommodates various group dynamics. Its adaptability ensures that everyone feels included and comfortable.
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Ambiance: The stunning architectural details and the tranquil atmosphere create a beautiful backdrop for socializing. The spaciousness of the atrium allows groups to sit comfortably without feeling crowded, fostering an environment conducive to conversation and bonding.
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Accessibility: Located in the heart of Denver, The Grand Atrium is convenient for both local residents and visitors. Its proximity to other attractions like theaters and shopping districts makes it an ideal spot for a meetup before or after other activities.
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Local and Visiting Attractions: For out-of-town visitors, The Grand Atrium offers a quintessential Denver experience, allowing friends to explore the city's cultural and historical side together. The hotel itself is a landmark that provides an immersive experience of the city's heritage.
What to Expect from the Service and Staff?
The service and staff at The Grand Atrium play a significant role in making the experience memorable for visitors. Here are some key aspects to expect:
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Friendly and Attentive Staff: Reviews consistently highlight the friendly and attentive nature of the staff. General Manager Kent and servers like Hiwat are often praised for their warm and welcoming demeanor, ensuring that every guest's needs are met promptly.
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Occasional Service Hiccups: While the staff is generally praised, there can be occasional service hiccups. However, these are typically minor and do not detract from the overall positive experience.
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Pianist's Contribution: The resident pianist, John Kite, not only provides exceptional music but also acts as a kind of host, enhancing the ambiance with engaging stories and interactions. His presence adds a personal touch to the gathering, making it more enjoyable and memorable.
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Dress Code and Formality: While many guests dress up for the occasion, the venue welcomes visitors with a wide range of attire. From casual to more formal, the dress code is flexible, ensuring that everyone feels at ease. This flexibility makes it easy for groups to choose how formal or casual they want their gathering to be.
Are There Special Events or Menus to Consider?
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace offers special events and menus that can enhance a group meetup:
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Special Occasions: The venue is often used for special occasions like birthdays and anniversaries. The staff can accommodate specific requests to make such events even more memorable. For example, having a customized cake or special wine pairings can add a personal touch to the celebration.
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Seasonal and Themed Events: The Brown Palace occasionally hosts themed events, such as holiday brunches or teas. These events provide a unique opportunity to experience the venue in a different light, with themed decorations and menus that align with current seasons or holidays.
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Customized Menus: For groups looking for a more personalized experience, it may be possible to work with the staff to create customized menus. This could include special teas, desserts, or finger foods tailored to the group's preferences.
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Champagne and Brunch Options: For a more indulgent experience, guests can opt for champagne and a more extensive brunch menu on Sundays. This offers a wider variety of food options than the traditional afternoon tea, providing a full meal experience.
How Does the Location Enhance the Experience?
The location of The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace significantly enhances the experience for visitors:
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Convenience: Being in the heart of Denver, the venue is easily accessible by both public and private transportation. This convenience makes it an ideal spot for both local residents and visitors to the city.
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Proximity to Attractions: The Grand Atrium's proximity to other attractions like theaters, museums, and shopping districts ensures that there is always something to do before or after visiting the venue. This allows groups to plan a full day of activities, centered around their meetup.
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Historical and Cultural Context: The Brown Palace itself is a piece of Denver's history, offering guests a chance to immerse themselves in the city's cultural and historical context. This adds depth to the experience, making it more than just a casual meetup.
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Nightlife and Evening Options: For those interested in continuing their evening out, Denver offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs nearby. The Grand Atrium's central location makes it a great starting point for a night out in the city.
Is It Suitable for All Groups and Occasions?
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace is suitable for a wide range of groups and occasions due to its versatility and accommodating nature:
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Family Gatherings: The venue is suitable for family gatherings, offering a sophisticated yet welcoming environment where all ages can feel comfortable. The variety of tea options and desserts ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
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Business Meetings: For business meetings, The Grand Atrium provides a professional and elegant setting. The quiet atmosphere and the ability to hold private conversations make it an ideal choice for corporate gatherings or networking events.
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Special Celebrations: The venue is popular for special celebrations such as birthdays, anniversaries, and weddings. The staff can accommodate specific requests to make these events even more memorable.
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Casual Meetups: For casual meetups with friends, The Grand Atrium offers a relaxed yet classy setting. Guests can enjoy drinks and appetizers in a beautiful environment, making it perfect for a low-key gathering.
What Are the Highlights and Unique Features?
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace boasts several highlights and unique features that make it stand out:
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Historical Significance: The Brown Palace has been a part of Denver's history for over a century, offering guests a chance to experience the city's heritage firsthand. Its architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a unique and memorable destination.
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Unique Dining Experiences: The venue offers unique dining experiences, such as the traditional afternoon tea and the exquisite cheesecake dessert. These experiences provide a distinct culinary journey that combines taste with ambiance.
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Live Music and Entertainment: The resident pianist, John Kite, is a highlight of the experience, providing not only beautiful music but also insightful stories about the hotel's history. This adds a personal and engaging element to the gathering.
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Breathtaking Architecture: The atrium's stunning stained-glass ceiling and the grand American flag suspended above create a visually stunning backdrop for any occasion. This architectural beauty alone makes the venue worth visiting.
How Can You Make Your Visit Even More Memorable?
To make your visit to The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace even more memorable, consider the following suggestions:
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Themed Events: Look out for themed events and seasonal offerings, such as holiday teas or brunches. These can add a unique twist to your visit, making it a special occasion.
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Private Events: If you're planning a special celebration, consider booking a private event space. This allows for personalized service and attention, making the occasion even more memorable.
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Room Service and Staying Overnight: For those who want to fully immerse themselves in the experience, staying overnight at The Brown Palace is highly recommended. Enjoying room service in the comfort of your room can be a luxurious way to start or end your stay.
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Explore Denver: Take advantage of the location to explore other parts of Denver. The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and historical sites to visit.
Conclusion
The Grand Atrium at The Brown Palace is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to create lasting memories with friends or family. Its unique blend of history, elegance, and entertainment makes it an ideal spot for a variety of gatherings. Whether you're interested in a leisurely afternoon tea, enjoying live music, or simply appreciating the architectural beauty, The Grand Atrium offers a quintessential Denver experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression. With its friendly staff, beautiful surroundings, and convenient location, it is the perfect place to rally with friends and make unforgettable memories.