Our Heritage

The Opening of the Armstrong Hotel

In 1923, Charles and Carolyn Mantz opened the original Armstrong Hotel and named it after Carolyn’s deceased father (Andrew Armstrong), whose house once stood on the property. When it opened, the hotel was the tallest building in town, boasting two elegant dining halls, 41 guest rooms, and various retail shops. The Mantz family advertised the Armstrong Hotel as the ideal location from which to tour the Poudre Canyon and Rocky Mountain National Park.

In addition to welcoming visitors, the hotel offered Fort Collins residents a home away from home for many years. Serving the public’s growing love affair with the automobile, it housed the first chapter of the American Automobile Association, and during World War II, it was used as a barracks for the U.S. Army. Many long-term residents of the Armstrong also considered the hotel their home.

By the 1940s, Fort Collins was still a “dry town,” but that didn’t stop local hotelier Ace Gillett from finding creative ways to serve his guests. Known for his bold spirit, Ace modified his black Ford coupe with a hidden compartment, making regular “booze runs” to Denver and Wellington to bring liquor back to town. These covert trips added to his reputation as a determined and resourceful host, fueling the lively gatherings that became part of Fort Collins’ lore.

Ace Gillett’s Secret Runs

From Rival to Owner

In the 1950s, the Armstrong Hotel was owned by Chandler Post and stood in direct competition with Ace’s Northern Hotel. Ever the strategist, Ace went to great lengths to ensure his hotel appeared busier—even lighting empty rooms to outshine his rival across the street. Eventually, Ace purchased the Armstrong Hotel from Post, moving his family into an apartment on the second floor and making the Armstrong a true family-run property.

His children and grandchildren worked alongside him, while eccentric long-term residents and colorful guests filled the halls with character. Today, our underground lounge proudly bears his name—Ace Gillett’s—honoring the man whose ingenuity and hospitality helped shape the Armstrong’s story.

As the hotel changed hands, its name changed as well—first to the Empire Hotel, and later, the Mountain Empire Hotel. During the 1970’s, downtown Fort Collins fell into decline as new growth to the south drew business away. During that time the Armstrong Hotel slipped into disrepair as more and more visitors opted for newer hotels. Eventually, the hotel closed its doors in early 2000.

Changes over the years

Coming Back to Life

Local Entrepreneurs Steve and Missy Levinger saw potential in the historic building. They purchased it in November 2002 and renovation began shortly after. The Levingers preserved and restored as much of the building’s historic fabric and character as possible. The original storefronts and the 1940’s-era neon sign were recreated from historic photographs. Wood windows were restored, the beautiful douglas fir floors were refinished, and period hall doors and transoms were faithfully reproduced. The newly renovated and revitalized Armstrong Hotel reopened its doors in June 2004.

The building’s architecture still reflects the simple, symmetrical, “clean” form of the early ‘20s. The east and south facades still showcase leaded prismatic glass tiles used to diffuse light into the original lobby and retail spaces. Each corner of the building still features the elegant tile cartouche with a floral motif—the structure’s only non-utilitarian embellishment.

After 14 years of owning and operating the hotel, the Levinger family sold this Fort Collins landmark to Crystal Creek Capital. At Crystal Creek, we love this hotel, and its connection to its setting and neighborhood. Our ardent goal is to preserve the unique nature of the property, and ensure it remains a fixture in the community.

The Next Chapter

A New Luster to the Armstrong

In 2019, we underwent extensive renovations of our rooms, lobby and public spaces. We took meticulous care to create an atmosphere that celebrates our history and shares it with our guests, while creating a more refined and comfortable environment.

Our beautiful lobby space invites both locals and guests into its midst, serving as a focal point for the community. For us, one thing will always remain the same: our commitment to authentic hospitality, and to being fantastic hosts.

Fort Collins’ beloved underground cocktail and music lounge, has just undergone a comprehensive renovation, as well as a refresh to its culinary, beverage and musical programming.

Recently reopened, Ace Gillett’s continues to provide the community with an upscale, yet welcoming and comfortable experience, but with a sophisticated new design, and an atmosphere that evokes elements of a classic supper club.

A revitalized Ace Gilletts

A Century of Hospitality

In 2023, the Armstrong Hotel marked its 100th anniversary with the unforgettable “Party of the Century,” inviting long-time locals and new friends alike to step back into 1923. The grand lobby came alive with a curated historical exhibit of Mantz and Levinger photographs, while Bianca & The Flyboys filled the halls with swing-era melodies. As laughter and music echoed through our century-old walls, our dedication to authentic hospitality—and to being fantastic hosts—shone brighter than ever.

The Armstrong Hotel is delighted to share that we have been awarded the One Key distinction in the MICHELIN Guide’s top honors for U.S. hotels. In 2024. The MICHELIN Key Hotels recognize unique stays from the 5,000 hotels previously recommended in their Guides, honoring The Armstrong as a “very special stay.”

Each hotel is given One, Two, or Three Keys to acknowledge their excellence across five categories: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, value for the price, and a significant contribution to the guest experience in a particular setting. Beyond your typical overnight stay, these hotels are esteemed for the connection they create with their guests and the surrounding community.

The Armstrong Hotel received a Michelin Key