Creating a transformational magnate, Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center

You would be hard-pressed to find a Coloradoan who doesn’t know about the Gaylord Rockies Resort and Convention Center.  But about a decade ago, that wasn’t the case.  In a story of diligence, perseverance, and unbounded optimism, we worked tirelessly to help create this economic development giant that now towers over northeast Aurora in Adams County.

Gaylord hotels are destinations that catalyze development at incredible levels, transforming the areas around them.  Seeing the opportunity to catalyze development in Aurora and Adams County near Denver International Airport while bringing in thousands of out-of-state visitors (and their dollars) via large conferences, we got involved.  We threw our proverbial hat in the ring, vying for the project to come to Aurora instead of other Colorado cities that were being considered.  In the end, what we had to offer in terms of an operating environment, development experience, and optimal location, won out in the site selection process.

As with any project of this magnitude, there were a few bumps along the way. We fought to keep the project viable, finding new partners several times and gaining financial support from local jurisdictions and the state through the Regional Tourism Act. And we sought and gained support from more than 100 surrounding governments, businesses, and groups to ensure the project would remain in Aurora even with other localities vying for it.

In 2018, the massive 1,501 room, 1.9 million square feet hotel and resort (which includes more than 485,000 square feet of exhibition, meeting, pre-function and outdoor space, eight food and beverage outlets, a waterpark, and other amenities) opened its doors. It was a celebration of our tenacity and belief in Aurora, Adams County, and the entire region. And it has delivered on its promises to the state. It opened with 1.1 million room nights booked and has drawn massive conferences and events. More than 80% of the visitors it attracts have never been to Colorado, proving its worth as a tourism destination bringing in out-of-state dollars.

Outside of the resort’s walls, the impact has been felt on the surrounding area with significant development momentum being created.  Businesses recognize the value of being close to the Gaylord Rockies.  Ancillary development including hotels and other amenities has sprung up.  And we’re continuing to work tirelessly with our partners on attracting even more primary employers and investment to the area.