Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center — Photo by Marriott

While the average hotel is renovated every seven to ten years, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center is set to re-concept three of its existing restaurants, launch a new dining experience, remodel the Grand Lodge and increase the amount of function space with a new event pavilion just five years after opening.

Known for being the largest combined resort and convention center in Colorado, Gaylord Rockies has played host to both leisure travelers and meetings ranging in size from five to 10,000, weddings, and other family celebrations since December 2018. Focusing on continued investment in exceptional meeting spaces and unique food and beverage experiences, Gaylord Rockies is expanding its position as a leader in bringing people together in an extraordinary way.

Scheduled for completion in 2024, these enhancements are Phase Two of the current multi-year investment plan, by ownership group Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc., providing a more spacious and elegant environment for both group and leisure customers. The additional enhancements will complement the Phase One investments, that included a redesign of the outdoor lawn spaces and the addition of dining terraces for Old Hickory Steakhouse and Mountain Pass Sports Bar, all completed in April 2023.

Phase Two enhancements include the addition of new bar and restaurant concepts in the Grand Lodge. Opening in spring 2024 are Embers Lodge Bar and The Fortunate Prospector. Later in 2024, the two current restaurants (Monte Jade and Vista Montagne) will be re-concepted to Garden & Grain and Copper Table.

The new event pavilion, Mountain View Pavilion, named for its scenic views of the picturesque Rocky Mountains, covers 12,118 square feet of indoor event and pre-function space, more than 14,000 square feet of outdoor terraces and patios, as well as 15,000 square feet of turfed lawn areas. Interior plans include floor to ceiling windows, banquet space, a sky light, a refined indoor fireplace and west facing mountain views. The Pavilion is set to welcome guests in 2024.

"You rarely see this amount of growth in a resort property," said Suzy Hart, general manager of the 1,501-room resort. "We just completed a major exterior enhancement in April and now we're ready to give guests the interior experience of their dreams."

Embers Lodge Bar

Featuring a 360-degree wrap around bar and 248-person seating area, Embers Lodge Bar is made for gathering with family, friends and colleagues. The menu presents handcrafted cocktails and beers from local distilleries, and a carefully curated wine list. Embers will replace the current bar, Pinyons, and the Après Ski Village space—taking its rightful place as the crown jewel of the Grand Lodge—where guests can enjoy a front row view of the Rocky Mountains. All resort guests and cocktail enthusiasts are welcome to experience the flame at Embers Lodge Bar.

The Fortunate Prospector

The new English pub makes its home on the right side of the atrium, showing off its mascot, Earl, a suave bighorn sheep sporting a top hat and monocle. Seating 134, the menu pulls inspiration from traditional English roots, featuring unique British cocktails and traditional faire along with a 12-draft beer tower. All resort guests and outside diners are welcome to experience The Fortunate Prospector.

Garden & Grain

Garden & Grain will be the first restaurant within the Gaylord Hotels brand focusing on healthy fare. Placing an emphasis on sustainable practices, the eatery will prioritize gluten free, vegetarian, keto, low-carb and vegan options, providing savory yet holistic cuisine while celebrating local farmers. Featuring lion's mane crabcake, grilled Palisade peaches and honey sourced directly from on-property honeycombs, Garden & Grain will replace Monte Jade, available to all resort guests and outside spectators.

Copper Table

Home to authentic Colorado cuisine served for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Copper Table is a rugged and adventurous dining experience replacing Vista Montagne. The choice menu includes local trout and hearty flavors in rotisserie free-run chicken, cast iron elk, bison rib eye and more. For guests looking to sip and savor, handcrafted cocktails, hyper local craft beer and wine selections are available. Copper Table will seat 328 people, an increase of 117 from its previous capacity, and is open to all resort guests and outside connoisseurs.

This investment in Gaylord Rockies is part of a long-term growth plan within the Gaylord Hotels brand, with ongoing enhancements in food and beverage, recreation, meeting space and guest rooms in all five properties.

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