In the lively mountain town of Glenwood Springs, the Hotel Colorado offers more than just historic charm and luxurious accommodations—it serves up a signature drink that’s steeped in local lore. Aptly named “The Train Station,” this cocktail pays homage to one of Glenwood’s most enduring icons: the historic rail depot that has welcomed travelers for generations. Inspired by this legacy, Sara Scott, the hotel’s Bar Manager, has crafted a flavorful tribute to the golden age of rail travel.
The Train Station
- 1½ oz Marble Distilling Vodka
- ¾ oz Chambord Raspberry Liqueur
- ½ oz Absinthe
- Fresh squeezed lime juice
- 3 oz Goslings Ginger Beer
- Serve in a Collins glass with ice cubes
- Garnish with a lime twist
The cocktail begins with locally sourced Marble Distilling Vodka, its clean profile laying a solid foundation. Chambord lends a lush raspberry sweetness, which Absinthe punctuates with a subtle licorice note. Bright lime juice cuts through the richness, and a splash of spicy, effervescent ginger beer finishes the drink with a refreshing kick.
Exclusively at Hotel Colorado
You won’t find “The Train Station” on any other cocktail list. This signature drink is exclusive to Polo Lounge and the outdoor Coppertop Bar, making it a true destination experience. Whether you’re warming up by the fire or enjoying the courtyard under twinkling lights, sipping this cocktail feels like stepping into a story.
Sara encourages guests to pair the cocktail with small plates that echo its bold profile. Spiced nuts, artisanal cheeses, or charcuterie boards perfectly complement the drink’s balance of sweet, sour, and spicy notes. The result is an immersive experience: part history lesson, part flavor expedition, and entirely unique to Hotel Colorado.
The Mixologist Behind the Magic
Sara Scott’s journey to mixology is as inspiring as the drink itself. Born and raised in Glenwood Springs, Sara joined the Hotel Colorado team five years ago to polish her bartending skills. Through on-the-job training, she quickly rose through the ranks—from bartender to restaurant supervisor, and now Bar Manager.
Sara’s passion lies in creativity. “I love experimenting with flavors and crafting drinks that tell a story,” she says. Her partnership with Marble Distilling Co., known for its sustainable practices and award-winning spirits, reflects her commitment to quality and local pride. Marble’s vodka, filtered through crushed Yule marble, adds a distinct Colorado trademark to each cocktail.
A Station Steeped in History
More than a backdrop for your cocktail hour, the Glenwood Springs Train Station remains a working monument to early rail travel. Built by the Denver and Rio Grande Western Railroad in 1904, the depot features Romanesque Revival architecture with red sandstone walls and medieval-inspired towers. It was designed to complement the grandeur of the Hotel Colorado and the nearby Glenwood Hot Springs bathhouse. More than a century later, daily Amtrak California Zephyr stops and seasonal Rocky Mountaineer excursions continue to support the timeless spirit of travel.
Raise Your Glass to Glenwood
“The Train Station” is more than a cocktail—it’s a celebration of Glenwood Springs’ enduring charm, the artistry of local spirits, and the creativity of a hometown mixologist. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply someone who appreciates a good story in a glass, this drink invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and toast to the journey.