We spent two delightful days in Cheyenne recently, and made ourselves at home at The Plains Hotel, and were indulged by its comfort, history, character and downright friendliness. This place is truly special, far beyond the ordinary. I highly recommend a stay.
In the process of discovering this hotel, we also made friends with its owner – Astrid. More than just an owner, she’s the custodian of the deep and fascinating history of the place. She rescued The Plains Hotel from an uncertain future, itself a public service deserving of recognition.
Built in 1911 by security investments of 200 members of the Industrial Club (forerunner of the Chamber of Commerce), The Plains is the expression is their vision of everything that Cheyenne, Wyoming had to offer – the “Magic City of the Plains.” Harry P. Hynds, highly esteemed in sports and business was selected to serve as General Manager until his death in 1933. It has hosted celebrities and movie stars, cattle and oil barons, dignitaries, captains of industry and business, and other luminaries. If The Plains Hotel didn’t exist in real life, Hollywood surely would have invented it.
Pass through its doors and you are transported back in time – to an era when hospitality and grandeur were served out in big proportions. If Mr. Hynds were alive today and checked into the historic Plains Hotel, he would recognize and appreciate the iconic masterpiece that he built nearly a hundred years ago – and perhaps agree that time has been a friend to this place whose authenticity to the Old West is nearly spiritual. And no doubt its best friend is Astrid. She likely tops Mr. Hynds passion and delivers on the promises he engraved into the ceiling of the place – “Welcome Pardner,” and “Nothing but the Best.”
Location:Cheyenne, Wyoming. At the crossroads of the west – the intersection of the Lincoln Highway 30 and the CanAm Highway (Lincolnway and Central Avenues, downtown at 1600 Central Avenue). Location overlooks historic Union Pacific passenger terminal, plaza park, and Rocky Mountains in the distance.
Lobby and Front Desk: A feast on the eyes and senses, the lobby and front desk have mastered the art of the first impression. Filled with authentic antiques and fine western art. Check-in is prompt and friendly. Bell service met us at the curb and handled our bags. Don’t forget to sign the giant guest book on the table in the center of the lobby.
Restaurant and Bar: Outstanding full continental breakfast included with room charge. The Wigwam Lounge features authentic and unique décor, and a full bar with great mixologists to wet your whistle after a long day on the trail. The Restaurant features a high quality selection of fine foods expertly prepared and served. We toured the kitchen and met the chef… he’s dedicated to his craft and keeps a well-organized, fully stocked and super clean kitchen and prep.
Rooms:Our room was a King Suite on the second-floor overlooking Depot Plaza and the Rockies. There are several room and bed combination choices – but I recommend this room type for its Wyoming-size comfort and overall value. It was clean, well appointed, quiet, spacious and very comfortable. Housekeeping clearly loves making the guests feel at home with lots of special touches everywhere.
Meeting Space: Plenty of meeting spaces and ballrooms for large and small events. Catering available.
High Points: It’s a “night at the museum” experience (in the best of ways), exceptionally unique environment that surrounds you with history, Old West culture and hospitality of the tycoon era.
Remarkable Feature:The stained glass ceiling in the lobby. It is original to the hotel by a renowned artist, and depicts the solar system, surrounded by the planets.
Parking: There is a covered parking structure a block away. The hotel also has an unpaved parking lot at 15th and House Street, which is 2.5 blocks East / South. The hotel suggests you check in, bring luggage to their rooms and park wherever you wish. They will follow or pickup guests to/from anywhere they park, including shuttle pick up from the Airport or anywhere in the city.
Consensus: Including The Plains Hotel in your Weekend Drive and Weekend Getaway plans is highly recommended.
TripAdvisor Status: At the time of this writing, nearly 4-star rating with over 800 reviews. TripAdvisor link to hotel.
Booking information: Via TripAdvisor (above), or via the hotel website directly at www.ThePlainsHotel or by calling 307-317-2651.
Narrative from the Hotel: “As a historic hotel of America, The Historic Plains Hotel has been a cultural landmark and society favorite of Presidents, movie stars and cattle barons for more than 90 years. Offering Complimentary Deluxe Continental Breakfast featuring hot items daily to all guests. Right in the heart of downtown and surrounded by Cheyenne’s greatest attractions, The Historic Plains Hotel celebrates the rich legacy of the American frontier through colors, texture, and the natural materials of the Wyoming plains. Guests can come and experience the spirit of the west.”