3 Best Hostels in Denver, Colorado USA
Photo by Cassie Gallegos

3 Best Hostels in Denver – Swanky Retro Mansion, Jaccuzzi and Live Music, anyone?

Let’s journey to the capital of Colorado and discover the absolute best hostels in Denver – are you ready?

As always, we’ll be honest here: there aren’t a great deal of hostels to choose from in this city. Yet we still managed to find 3 choices worth staying in and adding to this guide.

Your shortcut:

  1. Ember Hostel – top pick for solo travelers
  2. Hostel Fish – perfect for backpackers
  3. 11th Avenue Hostel – ideal for older travelers

Money-saving tip: Compare prices for all hostels in Denver on Hostelz.com. It saves time and money.

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Whether you’re venturing this state to indulge in legalised cannabis, or enjoy 19th-century buildings, this guide is for you.

This guide is perfect for YOU, when …

  • tired of bad and crappy hostels
  • want to avoid the “young party kids”
  • happy to spend 1-2€ for a better experience

Compare all of the best hostels in the USA here.

There is also a 5 star hostel in Colorado called The Bivvi Hostel, Breckenridge.

Quickly: If you were hoping to stay at Mile High Hostel Denver (aka Mile High House), we’re afraid it has now closed its doors.

What we cover in this article?

You can find all 5 Star Hostels here with Hostelgeeks and all guides to “Best Hostels In” here.

Quick Introduction to Denver

Average price for a bed: Hostels in Denver cost 20€ – 35€ per night for a bed in a dorm room. A private room starts from 59€ up to 120€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com, Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

Check-In and Check Out: The average check-in time is from 15:00 (3pm), while the Check Out time is before 11:00 (11am). Hostels usually offer luggage storage in case you arrive earlier or leave later. Make sure you check if luggage storage is free or if there is an extra cost.

🎁 New to Hostels? Read our guide to staying in a Hostel for the First Time here. We especially recommend reading:

The 3 Best Hostels in Denver

Let’s jump right into the boutique hostels in Denver, United States of America.

  1. Ember Hostel
  2. Hostel Fish
  3. 11th Avenue Hostel

We put all three accommodation on the map, you will find the map at the end of the article.

Overview: Best Hostels by Traveler Type

🦸 Solo Traveler: Ember Hostel
πŸ™Žβ€β™€οΈ best for Female Solo Traveler: Hostel Fish
πŸŽ’ For Backpackers: Hostel Fish
πŸ‘©β€β€οΈβ€πŸ‘¨Couple Hostel: Ember Hostel
πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘¦ Family Hostel: 11th Avenue Hostel
πŸ‘©β€πŸ’» For Digital Nomads: 11th Avenue Hostel
🧘 Cozy Hostel: Ember Hostel

1. Ember Hostel

Imagine this for a second…

…warming by a fire after a dip in the outside jacuzzi of a 9000 square foot Mansion.

Uh huh, right?

We could probably say no more and that would be enough to book a stay with Ember Hostel.

Yet it doesn’t stop there as there is so much more to show you.

This swanky retro hostel will fill your photo album in seconds. Just look at the beautiful boutique design!

Read: 28 handpicked boutique hostels

It would be silly to go through each room one by one. Just believe us when we say that all rooms – private and shared – are luxurious, sparkling clean and seriously hip.

What we will say is that each ensuite comes with a rain shower and free towels. Amazing.

Though it may be tempting to hide behind your privacy curtain; don’t.

Instead, get sociable and enjoy:

  • 12-person jacuzzi
  • Outdoor terrace
  • Communal kitchen (free tea/coffee)
  • Outdoor fire pit & indoor fireplace
  • Super fast, reliable free Wifi

If you enjoy organised activities, you’re in luck!

To add to the unique vibe of this place, cute ideas such as Sunday morning cartoons and S’mores by the fire are on the menu.

Otherwise, get cosy at one of the movie nights or enjoy a wilder evening at the Thursday night pub crawl.

The service here is excellent.

Location: Up on Cap Hill, just a 15-minute stroll from the impressive State Capitol. Grab a free city map before heading off to explore from this centrally located hostel.

This is one of the best hostels in Denver for

  • Solo travellers
  • Couples
Book Ember Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Ember Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado Ember Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado Ember Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado Ember Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado

2. Hostel Fish

To avoid trying to put a better spin on it. The team at Hostel Fish say it perfectly…

β€œWe believe that a hostel of backpackers, by backpackers, and for backpackers, shall be a fun, safe, spotless, high-end joint that is Classy as F…(ish!)”

And! This place used to be a brothel.

All travellers that love to chat and enjoy live music will fit right in.

Come on then, let’s have a closer look at what to expect:

  • Downstairs restaurant & music venue
  • Happy Hour everyday w/ FREE drink
  • Communal tours & pub crawls
  • Wifi throughout building
  • Free iPad use

Note: noise can be heard from downstairs – ask for a free pair of ear plugs if you fancy an early night.

The friendly staff here love to divulge knowledge and have a general chit-chat with guests. So don’t be shy and pick their brains!

What are the cons? Sorry guys, no free breakfast or free parking.

Make sure you also inquire about the upcoming activities, there are many.

From yoga and walking tours, to open mic and Motown night – there is plenty of fun to be had.

Not sure whether you want to share a room or have some privacy?

All room options are available. Go for a 10-bed mixed or opt for a 6-bed female.

Tip: book a private queen room on the top floor to move away from the downstairs noise.

Just look at the photos. Privacy curtain, storage and ready-made bed. Nice, huh?

Location: It’s the best hostel in Downtown Denver, no doubt about it. Everything you could want and need is within a 15-minute walk.

This is one of the best hostels in Denver for

  • Backpackers
  • Female solo travellers
Book Hostel Fish here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Hostel Fish is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado Hostel Fish is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado Hostel Fish is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado Hostel Fish is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado

3. 11th Avenue Hostel

At 11th Avenue Hostel it’s possible to stay close to the action without a crazy price tag attached.

This no-frills, community driven accommodation is a good option for older travellers to make themselves at home.

We actually really like the room options, so let’s start with that:

  • 4 and 6-bed female-only dorms
  • 4 and 6-bed male-only dorms
  • Economy twin & double
  • Double room (ensuite)
  • Double room (shared bathroom)
  • Economy quadruple room

Once you’re settled in, kick off your shoes and have a look around.

There’s a nice outdoor and indoor communal space to relax. It’s where you’ll find other travellers, too.

“We believe in providing everything you need, but nothing you don’t”

Have a look at the events board and see what you fancy.

Common activities include tours and the odd pub crawl. Bear in mind they are based on occupancy and interest.

Otherwise, we’d recommend staying here if you prefer dumping your bags and exploring the nearby sights.

Good to know: a 16.41% tax is not included in the price.

Location: Within 3 blocks of most major museums, and a quick ride to the zoo and science museum. Great food, drinks and day hikes are all reachable by foot, too.

This is one of the best hostels in Denver for

  • Older travellers
  • Adults
Book 11th Avenue Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

11th Avenue Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado 11th Avenue Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado 11th Avenue Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado

What about cheapest hostels in Denver?

Of course, there are always cheap hostels. Forget Denver hotels!

Even if you’re looking for cheap accommodation Denver, we think it’s not worth it to go with the cheapest hostel out there.

Why?

The difference is usually 1-2€ ($1-2) per night, and a lot of amenities are not included. This can be breakfast or linen.

However, if you are traveling on a shoe-string budget and you wanna save every penny, there are ways to find the cheapest places in Denver.

  1. Open Hostelz.com with full list of budget places to stay in Denver
  2. Order the listing by price

Simple as that.

Read: 15 hacks for booking hostels

Make sure you use then the other filters and rank per price.

Also keep a close eye on the ratings, especially the “extreme ratings“. Meaning, the best and worst. These ratings can give great insight on what to expect.

Best Hostels in Denver for Solo Travellers?

What is seriously the best hostel in Denver for solo-travellers?

That’s an easy one: Ember Hostel.

It’s a wonderful choice for sociable solo travellers as well as female solo travellers. The rooms are both sociable and great for getting some space. All you need to do is draw the curtain!

Join the crowd by the Jacuzzi, or find a cosy hidden space in one of the many common areas. Being so close to downtown it’s an ideal hostel for exploring on foot and meeting locals.

Book Ember Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Ember Hostel is one of the best hostels in Denver, Colorado

Party Hostels in Denver

Let’s say this quickly and painlessly: there is no official party hostel in Denver.

But never fear dear reader, for we have a great option for you instead.

Book your stay with our #1 Ember Hostel and be guaranteed some good memories.

It’s a great place for meeting people, whether it be in the jacuzzi or by the outside firepit.

Drinks are welcome on-site and it’s just a 15-minute stroll to some nearby pubs. Sorted.

Book Ember Hostel here

Compare prices and read reviews at: Booking.com | Hostelworld

Ember Hostel is one of the best party hostels in Denver, Colorado

Unique Hostel in Denver

Ok, let’s not pretend that some of you may be venturing to Colorado to explore the marijuana dispensaries.

Yes, that’s right: Cannabis is legal in Colorado and Denver.

Stout House BNB is a marijuana friendly household that offers tons of smoking paraphernalia and complimentary papers, pipes and lighters.

This could be described as a stoner heaven.

Note: Stout House is separated in to #1, #2 and #3 on Airbnb so make sure you choose the preferred room.

Alongside smoking, there’s all of this to look forward to:

  • Courtyard w/ fire pit
  • Full size pool table
  • 2 cats
  • 1000s of vinyls
  • DJ booth & sound system
Book Stout House BNB here

How to book?

We recommend using Booking.com or Hostelworld for your reservations.

Hostelworld is the most popular website when it comes to hostel bookings.

Read: step-by-step guide on how to book with Hostelworld

On both platforms your credit card is 100% protected and the booking 100% confirmed.

We included the handy links to each of the recommended hostel. Just click on the hostel name. The link will lead you to check prices and availability.

Here is the overview:

  1. Ember Hostel Denver: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  2. Hostel Fish Denver: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  3. 11th Avenue Hostel Denver: Booking.com | Hostelworld

We recommend booking your hostel as early as possible!

All of Denver best hostels are popular; especially in high-season. To make sure you end up in those stylish hostels, secure your room or bed as soon as you have your travel dates fix.

Any Discounts?

Currently, we have no special hostel discounts in Denver. I know, it’s a pity. We’d love to offer you an Ember Hostel promo code.

You can subscribe to our newsletter to receive our newest hostel discounts always to your inbox.

You can find all our hostel discounts worldwide here.

All 3 Hostels put on a map + sights

Let us have a look on the map. Below we list all three best hostels Denver on a map.

Personally, we love to plan our trips with a map having all sights and potential hostels on it. We thought this map will help you with planning your trip too.

We also included the main tourist attractions you’ve to know in this list:

  • Denver Botanic Gardens
  • Denver Art Museum
  • Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
  • Molly Brown House Museum
  • Downtown Denver
  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science
  • Coors field

Flights to Denver?

We enjoy Skyscanner, Omio.com and Kiwi.com to find cheap flights all over Denver.

This new website has super cool features like a so-called radius search. Just draw a circle over North America and find the cheapest rates for the area.

Here is our review of Kiwi.

Cheap Flights around the world

FAQ

Alright, you should have found your accommodation already. Below we list all the frequently asked questions. Have a look.

What are the best hostels in Denver?

Welcome to the only guide you need for finding the best hostels in Denver! The top 3 hostels we recommend are:

What is the best hostel for solo travellers in Denver?

That’s an easy one: Ember Hostel.

What is Denver best known for?

Here are the Denver main tourist attractions:

  • Denver Botanic Gardens
  • Denver Art Museum
  • Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre
  • Molly Brown House Museum
  • Downtown Denver
  • Denver Museum of Nature & Science
  • Coors field

Are hostels in Denver safe?

Not all hostels in Denver are necessarily safe, especially the one that offers the cheapest price in sketchy areas. It might be an illegal hostel, without proper license to run and safety measures.

So in all fairness, it is best to check out Hostelgeeks.com because we feature safe hostels in Denver. You can find backpacker hostel with top ratings! Keep a close eye on the overall ratings on booking platforms!

If you are not secure, you can also send us an email and ask us!

How much are hostels in Denver?

Hostels in Denver cost 20€ – 35€ per night for a bed in a dorm room. A private room starts from 59€ up to 120€ per night. This is a rough average just to give you an idea.

Prices always depend on season and holidays. Please always check exact rates on Hostelz.com, Hostelworld.com or Booking.com.

What are the best sites for finding hostels?

Of course, the best site to find hostels is Hostelgeeks.com

We are doing our best to deliver the best hostels to you. Check out the best hostels in the world guides; from Paris to Tokyo.

You can also have a look at Hostelworld.

More guides

Alright, this is your answer to where to stay in Denver and some of the best Colorado hostels.

Find all of the 45 best hostels in USA here.

We did the leg work for you and bring you more hostel guides to destinations:

You can find all our new and updates articles for Best Hostels in here.

We also created a huge guide to hostels. Here we cover how to build lifetime friendships in hostels, the perfect packing list and more.

Over to you

We’re dying to know which Denver hostel you’ve chosen.

Was this useful? Do you have any questions, doubts?

Then please please leave us a comment. This list of awesome Denver hostels should be as informative and useful as possible.

Your question will help me to understand what I have missed to mention.

Therefore, drop us a comment, we are keen to help you!

Last note: Our commitment

This is a genuine article to help you travel a bit smarter and find the best place on a budget! We ONLY recommend places we know you will enjoy, no matter what.

At Hostelgeeks we will never recommend you any place we haven’t evaluated or are not convinced by. Our promise is to only share with you places we also recommend to our best friends and family!

Enjoy this fine hostel selection and all 5 Star Hostels.

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A complete guide and overview to the best hostels in Denver, USA for solo travelers and couples

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As a user of Hostelgeeks, you also have access to exclusive hostel discounts. For booking hostels, we use:

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How to find cheaper Flights ✈️

The first websites we always check are Skyscanner and Google Flights.

Find our step-by-step process in our review about Skyscanner.

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