Murphy's Resort at Estes Park

Exteriors here are simple, with a motel-style vibe. Several long, straight buildings are set in a rough circle, with exterior hallways bordering the parking lot. In the center of the circle -- and in the middle of the parking lot -- is a green space with outdoor facilities like picnic tables, games, and seating for guest use. The lobby doubles as a lounge, with a bar for drinks and snacks, comfortable seating, and a television by shelves of DVDs. Floors are tiled stone, and light-wood wainscoting surrounds the room for a cozy feel. Touches like a popcorn machine, signage with positive messages, and a floral stained-glass window add personality. The hotel draws leisure travelers of all types, but families particularly like it for the friendly atmosphere and range of entertainment options the kids can enjoy. 

This hotel is in Estes Park, Colorado, set on Route 34 just inside the town borders. The road is lined with budget hotels, and there are a few restaurants nearby. The back of the property is a large grass field which extends to the shore of Lake Estes, where there is a nice walking path. The lake’s marina is also nearby, a three-minute walk down the road. There’s not much else to do within walking distance, but a bus stops a two-minute walk away for access to town. The charming downtown area of Estes Park -- full of quaint shops, galleries, and a variety of eateries -- is a four-minute drive away. It is a five-minute drive to the fairgrounds and an eight-minute drive to a golf course. The Fall River Visitor Center on the road into Rocky Mountain National Park is an 11-minute drive from the hotel. The nearest major airport is Denver International, a 90-minute drive from the hotel. 

A wide range of room options are available here, from standard double or singles, to family rooms and suites with kitchenettes. Color schemes and artwork vary between rooms, but they are generally comfortable and homey. Some are more contemporary than others, though they all largely have old-fashioned wood furniture and dated-looking bed runners. Many rooms have wainscoting and wood trim, plus a few pieces of wood furniture -- often a dresser and nightstand. All rooms are air-conditioned and each has a 32-inch flat-screen TV, DVD player, mini-fridge, microwave, coffeemaker, safe, and iron. Fireplaces and whirlpool tubs are available in upgraded units. Albeit clean, bathrooms are dated and often tight, with older tile and fixtures that could use a refresh. Hairdryers are provided, and there are dispensers with soap, shower gel, and shampoo.

Though a simple hotel, there is an impressive range of entertainment options on-site. The heated outdoor pool is a highlight, though it is only open in the summer. A large indoor hot tub is available year-round. All rates include a good continental breakfast, consisting of the typical range of fare like hard-boiled eggs, fruit, yogurt, and cereal. Colorful paintings -- some for sale -- line the walls of the bright, wood-filled breakfast room with a fireplace. Outside, in the center of the property, a picnic area with fire pits and grills provides an alternative to dining out and is a convenient gathering spot for groups. Nearby, there are a playground and outdoor games including volleyball, shuffleboard, and tetherball. There are even a few hammocks slung between the pines. Free extras like rentals from a huge DVD library, a range of board games to borrow, popcorn in the lobby, and bicycle rentals add appeal. There is a computer and printer in the lobby, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Pets are welcome as well, though there can be extra charges.