Denver's Hidden Gem: Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood!
Denver's Surprisingly Awesome Secret: My Love-Hate Relationship with the Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood! (And Why You Should Probably Go)
Okay, folks, let's be honest. When you hear "Best Western," you probably picture… well, a Best Western. Functional, maybe a bit beige, the kind of place you book when you're over the whole "adventure" of lodging. But hold your horses! Because I recently stumbled upon a genuine surprise, a hidden gem, if you will (even though it's a Best Western… shrug). That gem? The Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood in Denver. And yeah, I've got opinions. Lots of them.
First, the Good Stuff (Because, Believe Me, There's a LOT of Good Stuff):
Let's dive straight into Accessibility. God, is this thing aces on accessibility. It felt like they actually thought about people with mobility issues. I'm thankfully able-bodied, but I always appreciate thoughtful design. The Wheelchair accessible aspects were truly comprehensive. Wide doorways, ramps everywhere, and bathrooms designed for easy maneuvering. Seriously impressed. This isn't just a checklist item; it felt genuinely caring. Big kudos.
Now, about that Internet. Look, as someone dependent on the internet for everything (research, endless cat videos, you get the idea), good Wi-Fi is essential. And the Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!? Amen. Plus, it actually worked. No buffering, no dropped connections – a small miracle in hotel land. They also have Internet [LAN], for those who like to plug in. I, however, am a creature of wireless convenience. The Wi-Fi in public areas was also reliable. That's important if you want to, you know, get something done in the lobby, rather than just stare into the void.
Cleanliness and Safety: Feeling Relatively Safe in a Post-Pandemic World
This is where the Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood really shines. They're not just saying they're safe; they're showing it. The Anti-viral cleaning products smell like… well, something clean, not like bleach-death; a good sign. They’re doing Daily disinfection in common areas, and the Rooms sanitized between stays? Yep, check and check. I felt genuinely safe here. The Hand sanitizer stations were everywhere (a bit overdone, maybe? But hey, better safe than sorry!). And they even have Professional-grade sanitizing services. Seriously, I felt like I could lick the walls (I didn't, though, just in case…). They're really leaning into all of this. The Staff trained in safety protocol were polite and seemed to be actually following the rules.
A quick aside: The Sanitized kitchen and tableware items were on point. And the Safe dining setup was nice, too.
Also the First aid kit and Doctor/nurse on call are reassuring, even if you don't need them.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: More than Just Bland Hotel Food (with a caveat!)
Alright, let's talk about grub. Breakfast [buffet]? Yes, and it's actually pretty decent. The Breakfast takeaway service felt very modern and COVID-conscious. I wasn't expecting much, but it actually had a decent selection and was convenient. They also offered, an Asian breakfast -- interesting. The Coffee/tea in restaurant was standard but good and very necessary. The Restaurants they have offer things like A la carte in restaurant and Buffet in restaurant. I really dug the Coffee shop! The Poolside bar, was fun, but the drinks… let’s just say they weren’t mixology masterpieces. Still, after a day of hiking, who’s complaining? Happy hour was a real mood booster.
The Desserts in restaurant did a good job of winning me over. The Snack bar was really convinient.
Services and Conveniences: It’s the Little Things (That Matter)
They seriously thought of everything. Cash withdrawal, Concierge, Daily housekeeping, Elevator, Laundry service, Luggage storage, Meeting/banquet facilities – the works. Oh, and a Convenience store! Because, let's be real, we all need a late-night snack run sometimes. The Doorman was nice and a real bonus. Invoice provided, and Xerox/fax in business center, again, catering to all needs. The Car park [free of charge] and Car park [on-site] are a massive win in Denver.
A quick shout-out to the staff. Every single person I encountered was friendly, helpful, and genuinely seemed to care. And the Air conditioning in public area was a lifesaver in that crazy Colorado sun.
"Things to Do, Ways to Relax" (Yes, Really!)
Okay, this is where I was really surprised. They have a Swimming pool [outdoor], as mentioned before! And a Fitness center. The Sauna… honestly, I'm a sauna person, so that's a big win for me. A Spa/sauna! I didn't try the Body scrub or Body wrap (sounds… interesting!), but the fact they have one is impressive.
For the Kids and "Couple's Room":
I didn't bring any kids, but it's clear they're Family/child friendly. The Babysitting service is a nice thought. Might be good for the Proposal spot.
Rooms: My Honest Assessment (Details, Details, Details!)
Let's get down to brass tacks: the rooms. They're comfortable, modern, and reasonably soundproof. I'm a light sleeper, so that's a big plus. The Non-smoking rooms were essential. The Air conditioning worked flawlessly. I loved having a Coffee/tea maker. The Refrigerator was a convenient touch for keeping snacks (and, let's be honest, beer) cold. The Desk was perfect for working. The Seating area was a nice place to relax. I appreciated having a Socket near the bed. The Blackout curtains were amazing. The Free bottled water was a thoughtful touch. Oh, and the Bathroom? Clean, functional, and with a decent Shower.
Now, the Rambles… (And the Imperfections)
Alright, time for the "buts" and the "ughs." Because no place is perfect, and I'm not one to sugarcoat things.
- Location, Location, Location: It's in Golden, which is great for getting to the mountains. But, let's be honest, you're not exactly stumbling into the heart of downtown Denver. Driving is a must.
- Décor: Okay, it is a Best Western, so the décor is… functional. Not offensively ugly, just a bit… neutral. Don't go expecting a design magazine feature.
- The Spa (Again): While I appreciated the option, the spa services are limited. Don't expect a Miraval experience. But hey, it's better than nothing, right?
- The Small Stuff: No, there weren't any flaws, exactly. But I really didn’t need or use the Extra long bed or extra Towels.
My Verdict: Go. Seriously, Go.
Despite a few minor quibbles, I was genuinely impressed by the Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood. It's clean, safe, comfortable, and surprisingly full of thoughtful amenities. Especially good for guests with accessible needs. It's a reliable, affordable, and, dare I say, pleasant place to stay. And honestly? Sometimes, that's exactly what you need. So, book it. You won’t regret it.
Unbelievable Camden on the Lake: Your Ozark Escape Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to dive into my Golden, Colorado, adventure. Forget the sparkling clean itineraries, this is gonna be more like a Jackson Pollock painting of a travel plan. Get ready for some serious emotional whiplash.
Day 1: Arrival and the Slightly Disappointing Glory of the Best Western (But Hey, Free Breakfast!)
- 1:00 PM - Arrival at Denver International Airport (DIA). Ugh, airports. The smell of stale coffee and impending existential dread hangs in the air. My flight was delayed, of course. Because the universe hates efficiency. I'm already grumpy – hangry, actually.
- 2:30 PM - The Trek to Best Western Plus Denver West/Golden Lakewood: Okay, I'm not gonna lie, the drive from DIA wasn’t exactly scenic. Bland cookie-cutter buildings blending into a hazy sky. But hey, at least I got that sweet, sweet rental car. Road trip vibes are starting to kick in.
- 3:30 PM - Check-in and Room Revelation: You know, a Best Western is a Best Western. Nothing fancy, but clean enough. My room? Standard. Except the tiny, slightly-stained coffee maker. Oh the humanity! I mean, it gets the job done, but come on, folks! This is Golden, land of craft breweries and stunning vistas! Couldn't we get a good coffee maker?
- 4:00 PM - Strategic Planning (aka, Staring at the Map, Panicking): Okay, I’m going to be honest here. I’m terrible at planning. I have a general idea of what I should do, but I tend to get distracted by things… shiny things, delicious-looking restaurants, the promise of a good beer. I'm staring at a map, overwhelmed. “Visit Red Rocks Amphitheatre,” the map says. Sounds cool, but… is it too far? Am I ready for elevation? Decision paralysis is setting in.
- 5:00 PM - Pre-Dinner Snack of Regret (and Excitement): I found a cute little bakery nearby. I NEED SOMETHING RIGHT NOW. Got way too many pastries – a scone that was probably made yesterday and a croissant that probably wasn’t as flaky as it looked. But hey, I’m in Colorado! This is a vacation! No regrets (yet). The sugar rush, though, is awesome. I'm actually starting to feel…happy!
- 6:30 PM - Dinner at a Place Called "Golden Mill" (A Totally Unexpected Delight!): My inner grumpy tourist totally melted away. This place!!! Golden Mill. A food hall housed in a renovated mill with restaurants and a taproom? Genius! I devoured tacos from a stand called "Uno Mas." The flavor! The texture! The total lack of judgment from anyone about my second order! Seriously, if you are ever in Golden, go. Right. Now.
- 8:00 PM - Stumbling Around Golden: The best part about the Golden Mill? Its right next to historic downtown Golden! I strolled around, feeling the crisp mountain air (it's already starting to get chilly, even in early fall), and ogling the shops. Saw a cool bookstore, and a shop full of crystals. I love Colorado!
- 9:00 PM - Bedtime Routine and First-Night Anxiety: I could feel the effects of jet lag and a massive caloric intake. I crashed.
Day 2: Brewery Blitz & Red Rocks Regret (and Rediscovering Joy!)
- 7:00 AM - Breakfast Bonanza (and the Salvation of Free Breakfast): Oh, hell yes. Free breakfast at the Best Western. I'm not proud to admit it, but I LOVE these things. Waffles, scrambled eggs of questionable origin, overly-processed sausage links that I can't resist. Delicious in their own special way! Coffee, thankfully, better than yesterday.
- 8:00 AM - Brewery Research: Hours of extensive research (browsing websites, reading reviews). The brewery options are overwhelming. I’M PANICKING AGAIN! I need a plan, and I need to stick to it, right? Yeah, right.
- 10:00 AM - Golden Brewery Tour! I ended up at New Terrain Brewing, which was recommended to me by a friendly local. I sipped on a pale ale while enjoying the stunning views. This is living.
- 12:00 PM - Red Rock Regret: I tried to go to Red Rocks but it was closed for some kind of private event. Devastated. I seriously considered crying in the parking lot. I need a replacement activity.
- 1:00 PM - Drive of Despair: I have to drive back to town anyway. The wind is blowing, and I'm just feeling… defeated. This is not how I wanted to spend my day.
- 2:00 PM - The Rebound. The Shiny, Shiny Rebound! I'm in a shopping mood. (Apparently, my response to disappointment is retail therapy.) Found a quirky little store full of Colorado-themed knick-knacks and a bookstore.
- 3:00 PM - The Food Hall Strikes Again!: Seriously, that Golden Mill is the best. I'm there. This time I try a new restaurant. So delicious.
- 4:00 PM - Downtown Golden Exploration: I felt some of that joy returning as I strolled along the clear river and enjoyed the atmosphere.
- 5:00 PM - Pre-Dinner Stroll: I'm just enjoying the small-town feel.
- 6:00 PM - Dinner and Drinking! I'm at a nearby bar. They have lots of beer.
- 9:00 PM - Sweet Dreams of Colorado: Back to the hotel, where I crashed.
Day 3: Goodbye, Golden (with a side of airport chaos)
- 7:00 AM - Waffle-Off (and existential waffle thoughts!): Another free breakfast! I feel like a pro at this point. My waffle-making skills are honed.
- 8:00 AM - Last-Minute Panic and Packing: The classic pre-departure freak-out. Did I buy too many stupid souvenirs? Did I forget anything? The answer is probably "yes" to both.
- 9:00 AM - Quick Hike – or Attempt!: I tried to squeeze in a short hike. It ended up being a walk in the park. The views were lovely.
- 10:00 AM - Heading to DIA: The car rental return process was a pain in the ass, naturally.
- 12:00 PM - Airport Hell: The lines. The crowds. The gate agents who seem mildly annoyed by your existence. I found a terrible airport meal. I'm back to grumpy.
- 1:00 PM - Flight Delay! My flight's delayed, of course. I'm stuck, watching people. I'm doing some people watching, trying to think of happy things.
- 2:00 PM - Reflecting on Golden: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly (and the Waffles!): You know what? Colorado was great. The small-town charm of Golden and really got to me. I loved food (particularly the tacos at Golden Mill!). The Red Rocks disappointment was a bummer, sure, but overall, the trip was a win.
- 3:00 PM - Boarding and Turbulence! The plane almost crashes a few times! I'm terrified.
- 4:00 PM - Land at Home. I'm back.
And that, my friends, is the honest, messy, and utterly human story of my Golden, Colorado adventure. Until next time, Colorado! (Maybe with more planning next time… or maybe not.)
Unbelievable Hilltop Views: Your Dream Steamboat Springs Getaway Awaits!
Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood: The Truth (and a Few Laughs)
Alright, let's be honest. Finding a decent hotel near Denver that doesn't completely drain your wallet feels like winning the lottery. So, the Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood... is it the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because you’re about to get my uncensored verdict.
Where exactly *is* this place? And is it actually near anything cool?
Okay, so the name says "West/Golden Lakewood," which is already sort of... ambiguous. It's *technically* in Lakewood, but close enough to Golden that you *could* pretend you're soaking up that mountain town vibe. (I did. Mentally, at least. My poor car was still in Lakewood.)
Finding it, however, was a comedy of errors. My GPS, bless its digitally-confused heart, led me on a scenic tour of suburban cul-de-sacs before finally coughing up the hotel. Apparently, it has a complex about roundabouts. So, pro-tip: Ignore your GPS if it starts getting frisky with those circular intersections. Just keep driving and you'll get there... eventually.
As for what's "near," it's within a reasonable driving distance of Red Rocks (a MUST-SEE), but you're not walking anywhere interesting. You'll need a car. Think: strip malls, chain restaurants, and the occasional park. Not exactly Instagram-worthy, but practical if you're just using it as a home base for Denver and mountain adventures.
What were the rooms like? And are they… clean? (Please, tell me they're clean!)
Alright, deep breaths. Let's talk about the room. My biggest fear in hotels is encountering a biohazard. I'm not a neat freak, but I'm also not keen on sharing my space with mystery mold or questionable stains.
The room at the Best Western Plus was... decent. Definitely better than *some* places I've stayed. The bed was comfortable enough – crucial for a good night's sleep after hiking. The bathroom, thankfully, didn't look like a crime scene. The decor was a bit… generic. Think "corporate beige" with a splash of "trying-to-be-modern." But hey, it was functional.
I *did* find a tiny, almost-invisible speck of something on the carpet near the door. (Okay, I'm admitting it, I *did* crawl around on the floor with my phone's flashlight to inspect. Don't judge me!) My overthinking brain immediately conjured images of microscopic horrors. But in the end, I decided to tell myself it was just… dust. And I survived. So, take that, microscopic menace!
Breakfast: The Make-or-Break of Any Hotel Stay? What's the deal?
Breakfast, my friends, is where things get *real*. For me, a bad breakfast can ruin a whole day. I NEED my carbs, and I NEED that coffee to be strong enough to wake the dead. So, how did the Best Western Plus fare?
It was… your standard, free hotel breakfast. Think: scrambled eggs (questionably yellow), rubbery sausage, instant oatmeal, and make-your-own waffles. And the waffle iron? Oh, the waffle iron. It was a battle of wills. You’d wait. And wait. And then, when you *finally* got your waffle batter in there, it either came out raw or burnt to a crisp. I eventually surrendered and ate a bagel. Victory is often found in compromise, right?
The coffee, thankfully, was passable. Not amazing, but it did the job. And hey, they had fruit! Bonus points for the banana.
What kind of amenities does it offer? Gym? Pool? Free Wi-Fi? (Please tell me there's free Wi-Fi!)
Okay, let's get down to brass tacks: the extras. I *think* there was a gym. I'm pretty sure I saw some equipment through a window… and I made a mental note to go. Did I actually go? Nope. Hiking in the Rockies was my exercise for the week. (And trust me, that was enough.)
There was a pool. I didn't use it, but it looked... pool-like. Probably refreshing on a hot day. (Which, let's be honest, is most days in Colorado.)
The Wi-Fi? Yes, there's free Wi-Fi! And, thank goodness, it actually *worked*. I mean, it wasn't lightning-fast, but it was adequate for checking emails and posting Instagram stories of my mountain adventures. (Priorities, people.) So, big win there.
Were the folks who worked there friendly and helpful?
This is where the Best Western Plus *really* shined. The staff? They were amazing. Seriously, the friendliest, most helpful people. From check-in to check-out, everyone I encountered was genuinely kind and willing to help. I'm talking genuine smiles, not those forced, corporate grins.
I had a bit of a snag with my room key (user error, probably). The front desk person, despite the after-midnight hour, was incredibly patient and fixed it with a smile. And when I asked for recommendations for a decent burger place, they gave me some great suggestions… and even directions! This is a big deal! I always appreciate a staff that acts as a font of local knowledge. It makes you feel like you're getting a real, personalized experience.
This might be my biggest takeaway. The staff really elevated the experience. In an otherwise "meh" hotel, the people running the place MADE it worthwhile.
So, tell me the bottom line: Is it worth booking a stay at the Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood?
Okay, the moment of truth. The Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood... is not the most glamorous hotel you'll ever stay in. It's also not the most exciting. The decor might be a bit dull, and the breakfast wasn't exactly Michelin-star quality. But… it's solid.
Here’s the thing: it's clean, the beds are comfortable, the Wi-Fi works, and the staff is incredible.The Stay Journey
Post a Comment for "Denver's Hidden Gem: Best Western Plus West/Golden Lakewood!"