Unique Destinations for Holiday Shopping

They say there’s no place like home for the holidays — but when it comes to finding the perfect gift for everyone on your list this year, there’s no place quite like LoDo, either. Filled with breathtaking historic architecture, locally owned boutiques, and joyous festive charm, our iconic Denver neighborhood is a dream destination for holiday shopping.

Explore expertly curated vintage pieces with a cocktail in hand at Larimer Square. Browse for artfully crafted treasures and unique accessories in a stunning Beaux-Arts landmark at Denver Union Station. Or enjoy an authentic European outdoor market — without the hassle of a transatlantic flight — at the annual Christkindlmarket.

No matter where your gift-giving adventures take you, The Crawford Hotel puts Denver’s best and most unique shopping destinations within easy reach. And if you’re not sure exactly where to start, read on for a few of our favorites.

Denver Union Station

When the winter weather outside is frightful, you’ll find our on-site shopping options doubly delightful. Our unmatched location inside historic Denver Union Station means guests of The Crawford can enjoy some of the city’s top restaurants, bars, and independent boutiques without ever setting foot outdoors.

From gripping page-turners to authentic artisan goods, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your holiday gift list among the shops of the Station. Explore an eclectic collection of jewelry, accessories, apparel, and home goods at 5 Green Boxes, where almost everything is handcrafted, locally made, and one-of-a-kind. For the bookworms in your life, Tattered Cover Book Store is a must-visit destination. The largest independent bookstore in Colorado, the shop has been a Denver institution for more than 50 years, with eight locations across the city.

And if you’re looking for that perfect memento from the Mile High City, be sure to stop in at Pigtrain Coffee Co., where you can get your caffeine fix while browsing a selection of official Denver Union Station merch.

5 green boxes shop
Four people clinking lattes. The lattes have decorative latte art.

16th Street Mall

The Station isn’t the only place to find unique holiday gifts here in LoDo. Stretching from Union Station at one end all the way to Civic Center Park at the other, the 16th Street Mall is an open-air retail concourse home to more than 300 shops, restaurants, and bars. National brands, specialty retailers, independent boutiques — whatever you’re looking for, you’ll find it here.

Add a touch of Colorado style to your holiday gift-giving at I Heart Denver. Located within the outdoor Denver Pavilions shopping center, I Heart Denver is your one-stop shop for all things local. Find the perfect present among their curated array of unique goods from more than 200 local artists, designers, and creative businesses. Need something special for the fur baby in your life? Be sure to stop in at Dog Savvy, an independently owned pet boutique offering everything from gourmet dog treats to top-quality chew toys.

A complimentary RTD Denver shuttle bus service, dubbed the MallRide, runs directly from Union Station. Buses travel along the full length of the 16th Street Mall, stopping at each intersection for a convenient, hop-on, hop-off shopping experience. .

Larimer Square

Stroll just a few short blocks from the 16th Street Mall and you’ll find yourself in one of the city’s most fashionable shopping districts: Larimer Square. The oldest commercial block in Denver, this historic street was almost lost to the wrecking ball in the 1960s. In fact, it owes its continued existence in large part to Dana Crawford, our hotel’s namesake and the visionary preservationist behind the 2014 restoration of Union Station.

When it comes to fashion, Larimer Square offers a masterclass in combining high and low, from the award-winning preloved finds of Garage Sale Vintage to the bold, statement jewelry and wearable art of John Atencio. Stylish global citizens will be sure to love a gift from Chebet Mutai, a purveyor of African-inspired fashion, home décor, and contemporary art, while Coco + Grace is the place to go for effortlessly chic women’s apparel and accessories.

Dairy Block

Artful, elegant, and a little unexpected, the Dairy Block is the destination of choice for anyone looking to elevate their holiday gifting game. Once the home of the Windsor Dairy Company, today it’s a vibrant urban micro-district known for its historic architecture, acclaimed restaurants, buzzy bars, and upscale boutiques.

Here, quality and craftsmanship are always the order of the day, with an eclectic mix of local boutiques and top brands like Aesop, Warby Parker, and Grace Loves Lace. Explore a beautiful selection of high-end accessories made from premium hardwoods and exotic materials at SwitchWood. Or pop into Blue Ruby Boutique, which has earned a reputation as one of the best spots to find unique jewelry and clothing in Denver, with locally crafted pieces from Aspen True, Arae, and many more.

Stay and Shop in the Heart of LoDo

Located steps from the Dairy Block with a convenient shuttle service to Larimer Square, The Crawford Hotel is your ultimate holiday shopping headquarters. Whether you’re heading out for a dose of retail therapy or relaxing with your haul after a productive day, our thoughtfully designed rooms and suites let you enjoy the best of both worlds: a central location in the heart of the action, and a restful retreat to relax and unwind.

And if you’d like to treat yourself to an early gift of your own, check out our latest hotel packages, offers, and rates to help make the most of winter in the city. With rooms and suites this inviting, you’ll feel sure you made the Nice List this year.