Some travelers prize high thread-count sheets, balconies with awe-inspiring views or a well-curated minibar (bonus points for in-room extras like a yoga mat or record player).
While I appreciate all of the above, in the summertime I seek out hotels with truly exceptional pools. I’m talking about spacious spots for a few laps or a refreshing dip, plenty of lounge chairs for poolside reading and fun extras like a lazy river for leisurely floats or hot springs that turn a swim into a full evening of relaxation.
You don’t have to jet-set to a far-flung, tropical place to treat yourself to a relaxing staycation. Ahead, I’ve rounded up the best resorts in Colorado where the pools have true main-character energy.
Lakefront Infinity Pool
You can swim year-round at The Broadmoor, home to an outdoor heated pool with two lap lanes and an adjacent whirlpool overlooking the championship golf courses, as well as a light-filled indoor spa pool set beneath a glass atrium with soft pastel pink walls and dreamy murals.
In summer, the focus shifts to the resort’s spacious zero-entry infinity pool, enriched by lounge chairs, cabanas and pots bursting with colorful flowers. The dome-shaped pool gazes out over Cheyenne Lake and comes with mountain views. You can continue to soak up the sun by borrowing a pedal boat to take out on the lake. 1 Lake Ave., Colorado Springs
Red Rocks Views
Pool-goers are spoiled for choice at Garden of the Gods Resort & Club. There’s the spacious, family-friendly Three Graces Pool Complex with an outdoor hot tub, plus a recreation center pool (about a 20-minute walk from the main resort) featuring a flower-themed splash pad for kids.
But for arguably the best pool views in Colorado, head to the adults-only pool—bonus if you time your visit for golden hour, when the light bouncing off the crimson rocks feels ethereal. From the water or your lounge chair, you’ll get up-close views of the Garden of the Gods’ iconic red rocks rising into the sky, with the famous Kissing Camels formation front and center. 3320 Mesa Road, Colorado Springs
Saltwater Pool and a Trio of Hot Tubs
Once the snow melts, mountain towns transform into summer adventure hubs. After a day of hiking or mountain biking, unwind at The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Avon with a relaxing dip in the pool.
The saline-based pool uses fewer chemicals, so you’ll feel refreshed after a swim, and the resort’s three spacious infinity hot tubs make it even easier to recharge. Best of all, the entire pool deck overlooks the Eagle River and Beaver Creek Mountain, creating a peaceful, scenic backdrop for your pool day. 126 Riverfront Lane, Avon
Leisurely Lazy River
When it comes to resort pools in the Denver metro area, the Gaylord Rockies’ Arapahoe Springs Water Park is unmatched. In addition to indoor and outdoor pools, plus hot tubs, the resort boasts waterpark-style amenities including indoor water slides and an epic outdoor lazy river. The lazy river is an extensive one, too: Plop yourself in a tube and enjoy a winding, seven-minute lap each time around (and on those extra hot summer days, you can paddle yourself into a waterfall for a quick cool down).
The Gaylord is a great staycation for Colorado residents or you could tack on an overnight here before you fly out of Denver International Airport. Guests can round out a perfect pool day with outdoor lawn games and s’mores around the fire pit once the sun sets. But if you’re just looking to use the pool and spa, you can also get a day pass on ResortPass. 6700 N. Gaylord Rockies Blvd. Aurora
Hot Springs Haven
A dream for pool hoppers, The Springs Resort gives guests access to more than 50 mineral-rich soaking pools, along with “warrior” cold plunges for anyone brave enough to dip into the chilly San Juan River. Pool temperatures typically range from a brisk 45 degrees to a steamy 112 degrees (you’ll find the hottest temps at the riverfront “lobster pot”).
Each pool has its own personality, from waterfall features that pummel and massage your shoulders to the Alpenglow pool, a prime perch for sunset soaks with sweeping San Juan Mountain views. There’s even an indoor pool designed specifically for aqua massage treatments.
The Springs Resort also leans into creative programming, with offerings like Vinyasa aqua yoga and soothing sound bowl meditations held right in the water. But my favorite standout perk? Overnight guests get 24-hour access to the pools. How’s a quiet moonlight soak under the stars sound? 323 Hot Springs Blvd., Pagosa Springs
Country Club-Like Stay
Want to feel like a country club member for the weekend? Book a getaway at The Inverness Denver and take full advantage of the resort’s amenities. Start your day with a tee time on the 18-hole championship golf course, then refine your game at the driving range or putting green.
For lunch, head to Breckenridge Brewery and grab a table on the patio. Afterwards, spend the afternoon unwinding at the resort’s expansive pool with a tropical cocktail in hand. The pool deck has plenty of loungers and umbrellas.
For a little more activity, you can mix in a game of tennis or pickleball, or stop by the resort’s Adventure Vault to borrow a bike, skateboard or outdoor games. 200 Inverness Drive West, Englewood
