Denver-based hotel and restaurant manager and developer Sage Hospitality Group recently announced a landmark partnership to manage the legendary Stanley Hotel, one of Colorado’s most iconic hotels. The partnership brings together Sage and the Colorado Educational and Cultural Facilities Authority (CECFA) to preserve and enhance this dynamic historic property overlooking Rocky Mountain National Park. CECFA issued nearly $400 million in bonds to purchase the hotel and make major renovations on May 15 through its wholly-owned subsidiary, The Stanley Partnership for Art Culture and Education, LLC (SPACE).
“The Stanley Hotel represents everything we look for in a landmark property: a rich history, innovative programming, and deep community connections. We see so much opportunity and look forward to creating memorable guest experiences,” said Daniel del Olmo, president and co-CEO of Sage Hospitality Group. “We are honored to be entrusted with preserving and elevating this Colorado treasure. Guided by our vision to redefine how the world experiences hospitality, we will let this commitment drive our efforts to elevate and amplify the impact of this iconic destination.”
Mark Heller, executive director for CECFA said, “In selecting Sage Hospitality Group, we found a partner who shares our vision for preserving The Stanley’s legacy and embracing innovation. Their experience with leisure properties around the U.S., and historic properties such as The Oxford in Denver earned our trust. This collaboration ensures that The Stanley will continue to be a Colorado destination for generations to come. Through this partnership, we expect to generate $45 million over the next 36 years in support of CECFA’s mission.”
The nearly $400 million bond offering will fund a major expansion of the two historic lodging buildings and a new 65,000 square foot event center. The two lodging buildings will be extended with a 65-room expansion and connected by a new porte-cochere arrival with four-star service. The event center will include an 864-person auditorium and a horror film museum curated by horror movie powerhouse Blumhouse Productions, featuring new exhibits approximately every other month. The Stanley will also host the Sundance Institute’s 2025 Directors Lab starting next week.
Built in 1909 by inventor Freelan Oscar Stanley, the sprawling 68-acre property features 191 rooms across multiple accommodations, including the historic main hotel, The Lodge, and the contemporary Aspire wing. Under the creative guidance of former owner John W. Cullen IV for the last thirty years, the Stanley is famously known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s “The Shining,” and has become an evolving destination for families, corporate events, locals and film buffs. Guests enjoy world-class dining at Cascades Restaurant, Colorado’s largest whiskey collection at The Whiskey Bar, a wellness center and spa, and the Stanley Live entertainment venue.
The Stanley Hotel, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of Historic Hotels of America, will join Sage’s portfolio of distinguished properties, including a growing number of leisure-oriented destinations outside of major markets, such as Perry Lane in Savannah, One Ocean Resort in Florida, The Lodge at Sonoma, Hotel Alpenrock in Breckenridge and The Asbury Collection on the New Jersey Shore.
