Peek inside: Colorado Governor's Residence at Boettcher Mansion decorated for holiday tours

DENVER (KDVR) — The Colorado Governor's Residence at the Boettcher Mansion is decked for the holidays and welcoming the public for free guided tours.

Each year, the mansion is turned into a holiday destination for guests to "step into a world of festive elegance and historical significance," said the Governor's Residence Preservation Fund website.

History Colorado's expert volunteers host free guided tours through the mansion, telling stories and little-known facts.

"These tours are more than just a visual delight; they offer a meaningful connection to Colorado’s heritage. Whether admiring the grand staircase, the exquisite craftsmanship, or the festive decorations, guests leave with a deeper appreciation of both the mansion’s history and the significance it holds for the state," the website said.

There are multiple Christmas trees throughout the mansion with a variety of ornaments for visitors to see. One of the trees, "The Tree of the Fallen," is a tribute to families who have lost a loved one who fought for the nation's freedom.

"The tree represents the life of a fallen hero, but it also symbolizes the mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters and other loved ones who bear the weight of that loss," a tree label reads.

The decor makes tall columns look more like massive peppermint candy sticks and table tops look like miniature settings for a small town holiday movie.

Families, history buffs and visitors of all ages are invited to tour the mansion for free thanks to donations to the Governor's Residence Preservation Fund.

“I welcome Coloradans to kick off the holiday season in Colorado’s home. Each year public holiday tours of the Governor’s Residence give Coloradans the chance to visit the historic house, learn about its history, enjoy the exquisite and well-curated decorations, and spread holiday cheer," Gov. Jared Polis wrote in a press release.

Tours are happening on Dec. 6-7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and visitors can enter at the main entrance, located at 400 E. 8th Ave. Walk-ins are welcome, and visitors can also RSVP through a form online.