Some of Denver's best hospitality experiences aren’t in Denver at all. That’s according to Westword readers, as Monarch Casino Resort Spa has taken home the “Best of” 2026 Readers’ Choice for Best Hotel and Best Casino, while the Monarch Chophouse was named Best Steakhouse.
The trio of wins points to a shift in what Denverites want from an entertainment experience. Instead of staying within the city limits, they’re redefining what still feels like their backyard, making the short drive for a staycation getaway that offers luxury dining and gaming in one mountain-modern destination.
“Being recognized by Westword readers in all three of these categories is incredibly meaningful because it speaks directly to the full guest experience our Team Members work so hard to create,” said Erica Ferris, Director of Marketing for Monarch Casino Resort Spa. “No matter what amenity our guests choose to enjoy, it’s our goal for every visit to feel like a true escape.”
Monarch Chophouse
This fine dining experience pairs prime steaks and refined seafood with an award-winning wine program. Tableside options, including the classic Caesar salad and steak Diane, accompany a unique dessert wrinkle: its “321 Below” gelato, made with liquid nitrogen. No detail is ever too small.
Monarch’s Hotel
This 23-story, 516-room hotel tower offers spacious mountain-modern accommodations, specialty suites, and upscale amenities. Every overnight guest also enjoys complimentary access to Monarch’s top-floor indoor infinity pool, hot tubs, exterior fire pits, and a hot tub which offers stunning views of North Clear Creek Canyon.
Gaming Amenities
With nearly 60,000 square feet of red-hot, no-limit gaming action, Monarch offers its guests more than 1,100 electronic gaming machines to play, two of which paid out $1 million+ jackpots in 2025, more than 40 table games, a state-of-the-art sportsbook, and a well-appointed poker room.
Monarch Casino is located a short 45-minute drive from Denver. Learn more at MonarchBlackHawk.com.
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