Welcome to the Rossonian — coming 2028.

The Rossonian

The Rossonian A Legacy Reawakened

The Rossonian journey is one of continuous transformation. From its early days as a neighborhood hotel to its role as a legendary jazz destination, each phase has contributed richly to the Denver community and beyond. This timeline chronicles the key events, people and moments that shaped the Rossonian and the community that will carry forward its legacy.

The Rossonian’s transformation is being brought to life by an extraordinary collaboration of visionaries that includes Palisade Partners, Rossonian Development Authority, Craine Architecture, Semple Brown, Milender White, CoralTree Hospitality and a passionate network of community leaders, investors and cultural champions – all dedicated to preserving the hotel’s legacy and the spirit of the Five Points neighborhood.

Three men in suits are shaking hands in a black-and-white photo. One wears a hat and uses a cane, standing in front of a brick wall.
A vintage black-and-white image of the Rossonian Hotel on a street corner, featuring signage and classic architectural details.
Three men in suits are shaking hands in a black-and-white photo. One wears a hat and uses a cane, standing in front of a brick wall.
A vintage black-and-white image of the Rossonian Hotel on a street corner, featuring signage and classic architectural details.

We are currently working through entitlements and funding with an estimated groundbreaking date of mid-2026 with the hotel slated to open in 2028.

1912

The Rossonian Hotel – then known as the Baxter Hotel – is built by architect George Louis Bettcher for cigar-businessman Robert Y. Baxter.

1929

The Baxter Hotel is renamed the Rossonian Hotel after owner A. H. W. Ross.

1930-1950s

The Rossonian establishes itself as a central venue during jazz’s pinnacle era, hosting iconic musicians such as Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday, who had limited alternatives due to segregation.

1973

Following desegregation and social and economic changes, the Rossonian closes its doors.

1995

The Rossonian is listed on the National Register of Historic Places for its cultural and architectural significance.

2005

Developer Carl Bourgeois acquires the building intending to redevelop it as a jazz club, hotel and restaurant. This progress stalled.

2024

Plans for revitalization are finalized, with a vision for the creation of a hotel and venue that preserves the historic character with modern updates and amenities that will have a positive cultural and economic impact.

2026

Construction begins to bring the Rossonian’s legacy back to life.

2028

Anticipated grand reopening.