Top 16 Cool & Unusual Hotels in Gunnison

There seems no town more central in Colorado’s Rockies than Gunnison. It’s remote as they come though, an hour in most directions from the closest notable towns. And with this isolation comes wilderness paradise, along with easy-to-score hotel deals at the best accommodations.

If you enjoy the laid back outdoor lifestyle, Gunnison is a prime spot. It features a fairly large historic district with all the necessary restaurants, shops, hotels and entertainment There’s a state university in town, a healthy ranching community and plenty of tourism all year round. World class winter frills can be found less than 30 minutes to the north in Crested Butte, although “Gunny” does boast an ice rink and the weather-pending ski area Cranor Hill.

Probably Gunnison’s Best Hotel Accommodations

Gunnison’s local community, which consists of more than 5,000 people, was discovered by Anglo-Saxon explorer John W. Gunnison. By the early 1800s, the town has become home to mountain men. The town then evolved into a mining location. Nowadays, it is a top choice for vacationers who love parks, rivers, and other mountain-range activities. Discover this town that’s filled with history, vibrancy, and life.

Start planning your trip to Gunnison and explore their main attractions like the Curecanti National Recreation Area, home of the longest lake completely in the state, Blue Mesa Reservoir, as well as Gunnison National Forest and the Gunnison River! The town boasts all the right hotel accommodations for each type of adventurer and wallet.

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Here are our choices for the top hotels in Gunnison, in no particular order:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gunnison

One of the first hotels we will be recommending is the Holiday Inn Express. The franchise is known for choosing the best locations for their hotels, and if this will be the first time you’ll be visiting Gunnison, this could be a good choice.

Just one mile away from the Gunnison Airport, Holiday Inn Express & Suites gives you accessibility across town. It’s also just a couple of miles away from the Tenderfoot Mountain.

As for the main features of the hotel, it’s perfect for backpackers, families and business-related visits. The rooms are clean and simplistic with private bathrooms and amenities that will provide for your basic needs. They also have an indoor pool, indoor whirlpool, fitness center, and housekeeping.

• 910 E Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-1288
• To book, check prices or availability for Holiday Inn Express and Suites

Rockey River Resort

Rockey River Resort offers “modern comfort in a rustic atmosphere.” Considering the natural sceneries in Gunnison, this resort has an all-around feature for any type of traveler. Being in business for about 50 years now, Rockey River Resort has been featured many times in the public paper. The cabins in the resort have a long history that dates back to the development of Gunnison itself. Now, the accommodations have evolved into quaint and comfortable inns for their guests.

The local paper has also lauded the hotel’s policy when it comes to adding a small detail that count. Guests even admired how the management air dries the cabin bed sheets on a clothesline instead of tumbling it in a dryer.

They offer an array of on-site activities including volleyball, basketball, horseshoe, bonfires and more.

• 4359 Co Rd 10, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0174
• To book, check prices or availability for Rockey River Resort

Quality Inn

Now, if you’re a student or a traveler on a budget, there’s no need to compromise the quality of your stay because Quality Inn is the perfect option for a budget-friendly stay.

With 54 smoke-free hotel rooms, guests are able to have flexibility in their stay. Essential hotel amenities like a fitness center, lobby fireplace, self-serve laundry, breakfast buffet, and an indoor pool are available.

At the same time, it’s close to major Gunnison attractions. Quality Inn is just a 6-minute walk away from the Gunnison Pioneer Museum, 9-minute walk away from the Jorgensen Park, and it’s only 10 minutes away from the Western State Colorado University.

• 400 E Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-1237
• To book, check prices or availability for Quality Inn

Lost Canyon Resort

Lost Canyon Resort is another all-in-one resort facility in Gunnison. They offer different types of cabins that’s good for two people or more

The resort is considered one of Gunnison’s hidden gems because it’s located about 8 miles away from town, just off of Highway 135. But, even though the resort is tucked away near the mountains, the cabins’ ambiance can take your breath away.

Some cabins also face the Gunnison River, and this has been one of the most favorite features of the resort.

The staff are also friendly and accommodating. You’d probably want nothing more than just to sit back, relax and enjoy Gunnison to the fullest.

• 8264 CO-135, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0181
• To book, check prices or availability for Lost Canyon Resort

Comfort Inn

On the other hand, if you want to experience a straightforward hotel accommodation, try the Comfort Inn of Gunnison. This family-owned hotel has been operating since 2000. It’s accessible to the tow and is just 1.4 miles away from the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport.

All of the rooms are clean and neat, and they include free WiFi, TVs and coffee makers. Every booking also consists of a complimentary full breakfast buffet and access to the airport shuttle.

Previous guests like the location simply because it’s close to shopping centers and restaurants. By staying in Comfort Inn you can really feel the hustle and bustle of the Gunnison community.

• 911 N Main St, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 520-257-3067
• To book, check prices or availability for Comfort Inn

The Inn at Tomichi Village

The Inn at Tomichi Village features a mix of rustic and modern vibes. Though it’s located just 1.9 miles away from the Western State Colorado University, the landscape and architecture of the inn are carefully curated so you can still have your privacy in the middle of the city.

The rooms are large and are filled with comfortable beddings, pillows, and outstanding country decor. The hotel also has an AAA rating, so you know you’re staying at one of the best hotels in Gunnison.

All in all, the inn has 50 rooms that can accommodate large groups. Discounts are available for an extended stay, military, and senior citizens.

• 41883 US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-1131
• To book, check prices or availability for The Inn at Tomichi Village

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gunnison

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Gunnison is another strategic location if you’re new to town. It’s near the Western State Colorado University as well as the significant ski parks.

The rooms are filled with amenities you would need for your stay, but what stands out in Day’s Inn is the customer service. The staff are locals themselves, so they know the best places in town, including a fantastic Mexican food place downtown.

In the morning, the breakfast buffet would include favorite American staples like omelets, patty sausages, yogurt, cereal, pastries and more.

• 701 W US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0608
• To book, check prices or availability for Day’s Inn and Suites

Rodeway Inn

Rodeway Inn is another economy hotel in Gunnison. The staff offers a seamless check-in process, which is terrific for those who will be tired from the trip. They have received a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor because of their impeccable customer service and hotel cleanliness and quality.

Since Rodeway Inn is a known budget-friendly franchise, former guests were quite surprised to their 5-star rating. The view from the rooms is also impressive. Guests have noted that even though it is part of the franchise, this particular location is quite the star.

Because it’s just a one-story property, the parking spaces are conveniently out front your motel door.

• 37760 W, US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0500
• To book, check prices or availability for Rodeway Inn

The Wanderlust Hostel

The Wanderlust Hostel is another recipient of TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence. Though it is smaller than the other chains and brands on this list, it doesn’t take away from the whole experience.

The hostels feel homey, warm and welcoming. From the time you walk in, you’d see how other guests feel comfortable in the location because there are open spaces where people can do board games and other activities. Because of the limited number of hostels, the guests have intimate interactions with other guests. This experience feels like a small, authentic Gunnison community.

To experience the vibrant feel of The Wanderlust Hostel, call to book a room.

• 3014, 221 N Boulevard St, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-901-1599
• To book, check prices or availability for The Wanderlust Hostel

The Alpine Inn

The Alpine Inn is a charming, affordable place in Gunnison. Filled with wood decors and country-style rooms, the hotel boasts of a leisurely stay.

The motel has just been recently remodeled so everything, from the in-room refrigerator to the hot tub and indoor pool, is up to date. Each room also has climate control so guests can really customize the temperature of their rooms. One note that previous guests left on the hotel is that it’s located near a high-traffic location.

Car noises could be heard from the first floor, but lesser sound, presumably, on the second level.

• 1011 W Rio Grande Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-2804
• To book, check prices or availability for Alpine Inn of Gunnison

The Water Wheel Inn

The Water Wheel Inn is focused explicitly on providing lodging to those who will be partaking in outdoor activities around the area. The inn is perfect for access to different trails during the morning and star gazing at night. Any corner of the inn will lead you to different sceneries including the Blue Mesa Reservoir, the rocky walls of the Black Canyon, and mountain peaks.

The inn has 52 spacious rooms and suites that have WiFi, telephone service, cable TV, hair dryers, and daily maid service. They also have the Golf Course Suite that has a queen size room, kitchenette, and a pull-out couch.

• 37478 US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-1650
• To book, check prices or availability for The Water Wheel Inn

Long Holiday Motel

Long Holiday Motel is a charming location that’s designed like a reminiscent old Gunnison settlement. The main office where guests initially check-in has this cattle farmhouse feel. Across the large lawn are the rooms and suites.

What’s good about this location is its proximity to downtown Gunnison.

The rooms have a rustic design with unique local decor. The rooms are also comfortable. Though smaller than the others on the list, they have all the amenities you would need like WiFi, coffee maker, microwave, fridge, and TV. It’s also a good place for families and guests who will bring dogs because the motel doesn’t have an add-on fee for pets.

• 1198 W U.S. Hwy 50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0536
• To book, check prices or availability for Long Holiday Motel

Econo Lodge

Econo Lodge is another budget-friendly surprise in Gunnison. Don’t be deterred by its name because “econo” doesn’t mean they don’t offer any quality. This two-star hotel has friendly staff and clean amenities. At the same time, the room is more spacious than other motels in the area. One key feature in the rooms that past guests have liked is the comfortable bed in each room.

The lodge is also pet-friendly, and they offer a decent continental breakfast. Guests can enjoy the hot tub, business center, and free airport transportation.

• 411 E Tomichi Ave, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-3068
• To book, check prices or availability for Econo Lodge

The Western Motel

The Western Motel has a retro vibe that simply puts every visitor at ease. The two-level hotel is more straightforward than the others on the list, but what makes this stand out is the careful attention to detail by the owners who are present at the location.

Previous guests have noted the warmth of the staff’s welcome as well as the spotless linens and comfortable beds. What’s even more exciting is the continental breakfast that feels home-made. Lastly, who can say “No” to a “really good coffee?” It’s evident that the owners take pride by the way they take care of the property and its guests.

• 403 East Tomichi Avenue, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-1722
• To book, check prices or availability for The Western Motel

Gunnison Lakeside RV Park & Cabins

Gunnison Lakeside RV Park and Cabins has a beautiful location packed with amenities you would need for your trip. This location is also good for longer-stay RV vacationers.

Their camper cabins are recently updated, so the amenities are quite modern despite the rustic exterior. Rooms have free WiFi, pure drinking water, and TV. At the same time, there are picnic tables and propane sales within the property so if guests decide to have a BBQ, it’s perfectly fine to do so.

Guests can easily step out of their RVs or cabins and breath in the fresh air of Gunnison. It’s also close to the lake so a minute of stroll can take you to a different scenic view.

• 28357 U.S. 50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-0477
• To book, check prices or availability for Gunnison Lakeside RV Park and Cabins

Island Acres Resort Motel

Island Acres Resort Motel is the last on our list, but this one is special because of its unique and humble decor. The cabins are homey and incredibly adorable. The rooms are clean and comfortable. Decorated in a 1950s theme, guests can enjoy a stroll back in time with the fully-functional cabins that also offer modern amenities you will need in your stay.

They are located on the west edge of Gunnison on an original stretch of Route 50.

To experience their local hospitality and beautiful abode, book by calling 970.641.1442.

• 38339 US-50, Gunnison, CO 81230 | 970-641-1442
• To book, check prices or availability for Island Acres Resort Motel