As you drive into town, it’s easy to spot The Nightingale — marked by an old-timey lamppost with the motel’s name glowing in neon lettering. With its blend of retro allure and modern edge, the iconic sign sets the tone for this 1898 landmark.
Rooms are bright and inviting with soft beds and Southwestern-inspired touches like patterned rugs and pillows. Rattan chairs, buttery wood accents and butcher-block counters add warm, natural elements while modern comforts like high-speed Wi-Fi, stovetops and breakfast nooks make your stay feel effortless. There’s even an electric kettle, real mugs and a pour-over coffee setup with filters and ground coffee, so there’s no need to venture outside to get your morning caffeine fix.
What makes it special?
It’s definitely all the rich history. Way back in 1898, The Nightingale got its start as the town’s first medical clinic run by Dr. Mary Fisher. This noteworthy local character made house calls and had a pet bear named Pickles. The doctor is still honored today with a namesake park along the San Juan River, where you can swim and float through sections of gentle whitewater.
The most Colorado thing about this place
At The Nightingale, it’s all about the location. Whether you’re traveling for rejuvenation or outdoorsy fun, you’re never far from either. Just down the road, three all-season hot springs — The Springs Resort, Healing Waters Resort & Spa and Overlook Hot Springs Spa — offer afternoon pampering sessions and delightfully steamy waters to ease post-adventure aches. Meanwhile nearby mountain ranges and rivers offer thrilling, year-round fun. Snow brings opportunities to shred fresh powder at Wolf Creek Ski Area, dog-sled across frosted landscapes or race across miles of snowmobiling trails. In warmer weather, spend your days reeling in kokanee salmon and shimmering trout, navigating singletrack or hiking to cascading waterfalls and fields of blooming wildflowers.
Quirkiest thing to expect
Just steps from your accommodations, The Neon Mallard is a quirky spot for gathering, drinking and chatting. Every corner brims with personality, from walls strewn with antlers and animal-focused art to sleek, leather chairs lining the bar to sitting areas furnished with plush, velvet arm chairs and sofas. Sip inventive cocktails like the Lychee Tini and coconut-forward Powder Day by the outdoor firepit or settle inside for live tunes and trivia nights.
