🏙️ Republic Plaza: Colorado’s Tallest Building That Touches the Sky

Explore the architectural crown of the Mile High City and discover what makes Republic Plaza more than just tall—it’s Denver’s vertical legacy.

📍 Location & Visitor Info

• Address: 370 17th Street, Denver, CO 80202
• Public Access: The main lobby is open to the public during business hours and features rotating local art exhibits.
• Official Source: Denver Planning & Development

🏗️ How Tall Is Republic Plaza?

At a soaring 714 feet (218 meters) with 56 floors, Republic Plaza is the tallest building in Colorado. Completed in 1984, it has remained the state’s architectural titan ever since, and was once the tallest building between Chicago and Los Angeles.

💰 How Much Did It Cost to Build?

Republic Plaza cost approximately $140 million to construct in 1984—equivalent to over $400 million today with inflation. It was a bold investment during Denver’s booming oil economy.

🧱 Who Built It?

The tower was developed by Miller Klutznick Davis Gray Company and designed by the world-renowned firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM)—the same firm behind the Burj Khalifa and One World Trade Center.

🏢 What’s Inside Republic Plaza?

Republic Plaza offers 1.2 million+ square feet of Class A office space and is home to a mix of legal, financial, and retail businesses:

• Husch Blackwell LLP – National law firm
• JP Morgan Chase – Financial services
• UMB Bank – Regional HQ
• Pinnacle Real Estate Advisors
• Ink! Coffee – Locally loved coffee shop
• 7-Eleven – Lobby convenience
• Flower Garden – Florist in the lobby
• Fitness Center – Tenant-exclusive gym
• Art in Public Places Gallery – Free exhibits by Colorado artists

For business listings and leasing info, visit Brookfield Properties.

🏛️ Historical & Cultural Significance

Republic Plaza was a bold symbol of Denver’s 1980s oil boom. It showcased the city’s aspirations through minimalist architecture and granite cladding. For years, it served as the headquarters for Qwest Communications, which later merged into Lumen Technologies.

🎨 A Hidden Gem for Art Lovers

The Art in Public Places gallery inside the lobby features rotating exhibits from local and indigenous artists. Free to the public and updated regularly, it’s a unique cultural experience hidden inside a skyscraper.

🧠 For Students & Curious Minds

• Style: Postmodern Minimalism
• Material: Steel frame with granite cladding
• Certifications: LEED Certified for energy efficiency
• Engineering Note: Built on rocky soil with heavy winter winds, requiring expert structural planning

🚌 Getting There

• RTD Light Rail: 16th & California Station (3-minute walk)
• Bike lanes and scooters: Available throughout downtown
• Parking: Metered street and nearby garages

🏞️ Nearby Attractions

• 16th Street Mall – 1 block
• Denver Art Museum – 15-minute walk
• Civic Center Park – 10-minute walk
• Union Station – 12-minute walk
• Colorado State Capitol – 5 minutes by car

🌟 Quick Fun Facts

• Republic Plaza has over 2,000 windows
• The building lights up in seasonal colors: blue (Broncos), pink (Breast Cancer Awareness), rainbow (Pride)
• No observation deck, but great views nearby at rooftop bars like 54thirty

🗺️ Resources & References

• Denver Planning & Development
• Brookfield Properties – Republic Plaza
• Colorado Historical Society
• U.S. Green Building Council (LEED)

📸 Snap, Tag, and Share!

Visiting Republic Plaza? Snap a photo, tag @OpenRoadColorado, and use #TallestInColorado for a chance to be featured on Instagram and Facebook!