Historic Hotels

Summer Road Trips: Weekend Getaways from NYC, D.C., L.A, and More!

by Jane on May 1, 2013

Summertime is fast-approaching and we can’t wait till the days of top-down convertibles, cover-ups and flip-flops dress codes, and mini weekend getaways. After all, a share can be great but there’s something about a spontaneous trip to the beach to really make it feel like summer. So whether your home base is New York or Los Angeles, D.C. or San Francisco, or even Boston, we have a beach destination that can easily be reached via a quick road trip. So grab a map, your sunglasses, and some road trippin’ munchies, and make your escape!

Weekend Getaway from New York City: Montauk

Travel time: 2 hours, 30 minutes via car

Visit Montauk before the "too cool" Hamptons vibe has rubbed off on it.

It may seem cliche, but there’s a reason why Manhattanites flock to the Hamptons come summer. Home to upscale restaurants, trendy workout clubs, quirky shops, and of course, beautiful beaches, it offers a nice reprieve from the congestion and smog of the city — while maintaining that cool (and sometimes snobbish) city vibe. Montauk, located at the furthest tip, however, has a more laid-back feel; residents fear that a recent influx of visitors will taint its unpretentious reputation, but for now it’s a nice alternative to the ultra-exclusive vibe of other Hamptons.

Where to Stay: A cool party spot, Sole East attracts a young, beautiful crowd. With a tasty on-site restaurant, a small pool with loungers, and beach cruisers available for rent, it’s a great pick.

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Tagged as: Boston, Boutique Hotels, California, Cape Cod, Historic Hotels, Kid-Friendly Hotels, Los Angeles, Luxury Hotels, Montauk, Monterey, New York City, party hotels, Romantic Hotels, San Francisco, Santa Barbara, The Hamptons, Value Hotels, Virginia Beach, Washington D.C

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When to Visit Amsterdam: 5 Springtime Activities You Can’t Miss This Year

by Jane on April 15, 2013

Ah, springtime! While we celebrate the warmer months all around the globe, they are particularly welcome when they come to chillier (read: freezing) spots such as Amsterdam. Visitors may shy away from this Eastern European beauty during the winter, but the tourists return in droves come April, when the sun, colorful flowers, and outdoor markets reappear. Just strolling along the cobblestone streets of Amsterdam is a wonderful way to spend a day, but we’ve got five activities you can’t miss during your springtime trip this year. And of course, where to stay nearby.

Walk through beautiful gardens

Amsterdam's colorful tulips are a main attraction during the warmer months.

Come April, Amsterdam’s streets are lined with flower stands selling colorful tulips, the official country flower of Holland. Tulips can be seen sprouting up just about everywhere throughout the city, but the Keukenhof Gardens and Tulips Fields is the most popular place to enjoy them. The largest flower gardens in the world, it is home to over seven million flowers, and not just tulips — daffodils, hyacinths, amaryllis, and crocus are also there to be admired.

Where to Stay: A bit east of the city center, the Keukenhof Gardens are about a 30-minute drive from the majority of Amsterdam’s hotels. For those visiting the gardens, and other major attractions along the way, the Conscious Hotel Vondelpark is a solid mid-range option that will particularly appeal to tree-huggers: The hotel features a vibrant plant wall as well as furniture made from recycled and sustainable materials.
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Tagged as: Amsterdam, Boutique Hotels, Historic Hotels, Luxury Hotels, Value Hotels

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Wedding Wednesday: The Gallery Inn, Puerto Rico

by Kristina on April 3, 2013

The pool area is an inviting, romantic spot ready to be transformed into a picturesque reception site.

Owned by the same couple for decades, the historic Gallery Inn is a charming boutique hotel in Old San Juan, perfect for an intimate exchanging of “I dos.” Run like an informal B&B, guests at the Gallery Inn are greeted by name, much of what the restaurant serves is grown in the garden, and no two rooms are the same (though they do share lots of Spanish-style charm). But also like a B&B, the hotel lacks amenities such as TVs and a fitness center. The property’s main draws include the convenient Old San Juan location, ocean views from the wine deck, and the artsy, laid-back feel. The pool is also a picturesque spot: Built around ancient walls that have stood on the property for hundreds of years and featuring two water falls, the space is utterly unique. The innkeepers are both artists, and it’s evident they put thought into every detail of the restoration — expect beautiful old-world details like brick floors, wood beam ceilings, rich rugs, sculptures, and antique knickknacks.

Weddings at The Gallery Inn are as unique as this eclectic property. The inn’s dramatic spaces — including the candlelit Sunken Wedding Garden, panoramic rooftop deck, and Ventian-style music room — serve as the romantic backdrops for wedding parties. Weddings held here can be intimate affairs of just ten people or large parties of 150 guests (though with just 26 rooms on-site, some attendees will have to seek lodging elsewhere). An on-site event coordinator will aid couples in customizing a menu, arranging table settings, and selecting florists, photographers, and musicians. Check out more wedding inspired photos of The Gallery Inn here »

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Tagged as: Boutique Hotels, Destination Weddings, Historic Hotels, Luxury Hotels, Puerto Rico, Romantic Hotels, Wedding Wednesday

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Wedding Wednesday: The Red Inn, Cape Cod

by Kristina on March 20, 2013

The Red Inn in Cape Cod is a lovely spot for a beachy New England wedding just as fall approaches.

The Red Inn is where history meets luxury in the Provincetown area of Cape Cod. A local hot spot thanks to a delicious seafood restaurant, the inn draws visitors from far and wide looking to get hitched in a cozy beachside locale. Even Franklin Delano Roosevelt saw fit to visit this tranquil spot. The rooms — of  which there are only eight — have upscale, beach-chic decor, and some offer romantic fireplaces. But all of them exude a touch of whimsy and romance, with expansive decks overlooking the water.

Couples can choose to wed in the gardens, on the waterside deck, or in any space of the inn’s intimate interiors. Staff can coordinate tent rentals, floral arrangements, musicians, cake design, and menu customization. They have a good selection of vendors they’ve worked with in the past, but couples can bring in their own choice of vendors as well. Just remember that because of The Red Inn’s small size and legitimate cool factor, it tends to sell out fast, so book early (especially if you want your bridal party to be able to stay at the hotel). Check out more wedding-inspired photos of The Red Inn here »
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Tagged as: Boutique Hotels, Cape Cod, Destination Weddings, Historic Hotels, Luxury Hotels, Wedding Wednesday

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Old Money Resorts: Where American Royalty Stay and Play

by Kelsey on February 19, 2013

Want to live like a Rockefeller on your next vacation? Or want a voyeuristic peek into the world of the rich and powerful? These iconic resorts across the country — from a Gilded Age Palm Beach estate to a Newport mansion to a Long Island Gold Coast castle — will make you feel like your blood runs blue.

The Breakers Palm Beach

The Breakers Palm Beach

The Breakers Palm Beach

There’s a reason The Breakers’ reputation precedes it. This 140-acre resort, first built in 1896 (and reconstructed in 1926), resembles a Renaissance palace, and it’s seen more than it’s fair share of American royalty over the years; Andrew Carnegie, J.P. Morgan, William Randolph Hearst, and various Astors, Rockefellers, and Vanderbilts have all walked the halls at this posh spot. No other hotel in Palm Beach can come close to matching the luxury found at this iconic property.

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Tagged as: Cape Cod, Historic Hotels, Long Island, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Newport, Palm Beach

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Celebrate President’s Day at These POTUS-Worthy Hotels

by Devon on February 18, 2013

When the White House just doesn't cut it, there's always the Waldorf.

Happy President’s Day from all of us at Oyster.com! This beloved federal holiday was established in 1879 and occurs on the third Monday of every February, perfectly in between Lincoln’s February 12th birthday and George Washington’s birthday on February 22nd. In honor of President’s Day, we’d like to recognize some of our favorite historic hotels that have been lucky enough to have a Commander in Chief or two grace their digs. Click here to take at a look at our favorite presidential hotels, where everything from scandals, to gunshots — even to haircuts, has taken place.

Tagged as: Historic Hotels, New York City, San Francisco, Washington D.C.

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Honeymoon Hotel of the Week: Saint James Paris

by Kristina on February 13, 2013

The only chateau-hotel in Paris, the Saint James is well-worth the splurge.

Ah Paris, is there anywhere in the world more romantic than this European capital? Couples can be seen everywhere here, strolling along the banks of the Siene, taking in the Eiffel Tower, or trying to decipher the Mona Lisa’s smile at the Louvre, all the while sharing their own enigmatic glances with each other. It’s a city made for love, with a rich history attesting to the fact that l’amour has always taken precedent among its denizens. And as tomorrow is Valentine’s Day, we can’t help but dream about a honeymoon in this most romantic of places. Paris boasts a plethora of hotels perfect for couples, some with Eiffel Tower views, while others ooze Parisian charm. But for us, the perfect hotel in the City of Light (and Love!) for a honeymoon is none other than the Saint James Paris.

With a sweeping private entrance surrounded by green lawns and an impressive fountain, this upscale boutique is a rare find in Paris; in fact, the 19th century manor is considered the only chateau-hotel in the city, making it a unique and luxurious honeymoon locale. It’s fitting that the historic hotel is located in the wealthy 16th arrondissement, home to many museums, diplomatic residences, and prestigious schools. The 48 rooms and suites are large by Parisian standards, and decorated in plush, luxurious fabrics. And the common areas are even more impressive — especially the black and white grand staircase on the main floor. The terrace is a beautiful spot for lunch on a nice summer day. And there’s also a small fitness center, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant. The rates here are steep, but couples who want to experience luxury in Paris (and can afford it) should say “I do” to the Saint James. Check out more honeymoon-inspired photos of the Saint James Paris here »  Read More »

Tagged as: Boutique Hotels, Historic Hotels, Honeymoon Hotel of the Week, Honeymoons, Luxury Hotels, Paris

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The Coziest Bed & Breakfasts in Vermont

by Kristina on February 1, 2013

The Inn at the Round Barn Farm is one of the most romantic spots in Vermont.

If there’s one word that describes Vermont, it’s scenic. Winding roads along rolling hills allow for wonderful vistas of tumbling streams, lovely villages and superb trails amid thick woods and state forests. And tucked into this picturesque landscape are some of the coziest B&Bs we’ve ever seen. Featuring wonderful fireplaces and historic details, these gorgeous stays come with delicious meals and warm, homey ambiances. So prepare yourself, because you’re going to want to bed up and mug down at our favorites after viewing this slideshow.

Tagged as: B&Bs, Boutique Hotels, Historic Hotels, Romantic Hotels, Value Hotels, Vermont

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Before the Inauguration: Obama’s Favorite Hotels

by Kristina on January 18, 2013

In honor of President Obama’s inauguration on Monday, we’re taking a look back at his travels over his last four years in office — and on the campaign trail. The Commander-In-Chief has laid his head in some of our favorite hotels around the globe and, thanks to his refined taste and seriously swanky style (although we’d argue we really have Michelle to thank for that), we’re always eager to see where he’ll travel to next (and, more importantly, where he’ll stay!). Congratulations, Mr. President! May the next four years be full of prosperous times — and plenty of unique hotel stays!

The Hay-Adams, Washington, DC

This decadent junior suite at The Hay-Adams offers White House views.

Four years ago, President Obama moved his family into the Presidential Suite at this historic hotel with White House views after former President George W. Bush rejected his request to stay in Blair House, the White House’s guest residence. President Obama wanted to move to Washington three weeks before his inauguration so that his daughters could start at Sidwell Friends School without missing the beginning of the term, but he was informed that Blair House was already booked (for former prime minister of Australia John Howard and several receptions, as it later turned out). Lucky for him, The Hay-Adams is one of DC’s most luxurious stays. Read More »

Tagged as: Berlin, Chicago, Dublin, Election 2012, Historic Hotels, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Los Cabos, New York City, Obama, Phoenix, Presidential Hotels, Washington D.C.

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In the Spotlight: Fretheim Hotel, Norway

by Jane on December 13, 2012

The Fretheim's cozy lobby, complete with a roaring fireplace, keeps guests warm and far from the wintry cold outside.

The Fretheim Hotel has long been a destination for tourists looking to explore Norway’s natural wonders. In the late 19th century, English lords came to Flam and stayed at the farm of Christen Fretheim while they fished for salmon or hunted for nearby game. The farm soon developed into a hotel, and today it welcomes tourists who flock to Flam for fjord cruises, hiking, and in the winter, cross country skiing. The hotel’s common spaces have charm to spare, with cozy fireplaces, lots of wooden accents, and quaint antique furniture. Rooms, however, are a mixed bag; 80 percent have basic mid-range decor, while the rest are higher-end. (American Wing Rooms are contemporary, while Historic Wing Rooms — though lacking TVs for added authenticity — are lovely.) The hotel makes the most of its unique, naturally beautiful location with soaring glass windows in the lobby and restaurant that frame the steep surrounding mountains. See more incredible photos after the jump or read our full review now »

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Tagged as: Historic Hotels, In the Spotlight, Luxury Hotels, Norway

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