The right accommodations can either make or break
a trip. Having a clean and comfortable place
to stay is satisfactory, but there are some
establishments that go above and beyond to make
guests feel at home. Whether you are seeking
luxurious amenities, a dose of American history, or
an ultra-modern space to rest your head, the
following are some unique hotels to discover, listed
in no particular order.
# 1 on the list is Lokal. Describing
itself as Philadelphia's first invisible service boutique hotel,
it welcomes guests to experience the city like
a local. There is no front desk or
onsite staff, which encourages visitors to feel as
if they are at home. All of the
services and amenities are available via a touchscreen,
allowing for a custom-tailored experience. Besides the flagship
location in Old City, Lokal has expanded to
Fishtown, Cape May, and South Jersey.
The business was founded by husband and wife
team Chad and Courtney Ludeman, who wanted to
open a design-driven hotel that felt modern and
homey. In each room, an iPad is available
that is connected to a few select apps,
enabling guests to order takeout groceries, and other
key services. Those who prefer in-person assistance can
request for a real-life staff member to help
with check-in, answer questions, or address any needs.
Built in 18 82 the Hotel Providence is
# 2 on the list. Situated in the
heart of Downtown Providence's historic theater district, this
establishment is inspired by writers like Leo Tolstoy,
Lord Byron, and Alexandre Dumas. Spaces are filled
with classic novels art, and original local finds.
From the cultural exhibitions in the lobby and
oil paintings in the guestrooms, to jazz and
film screenings, this institution is passionate about connecting
its guests with pieces of Rhode Island history
and artistic expression.
Fusing urban elements with small-town charm, the Hotel
is decorated to showcase antique furnishings and custom
pieces by local artists. Rooms are equipped with
climate-control thermostats, a professional workspace, flat-screen TVs, marble
bathrooms, and mini-fridges. Guests are encouraged to take
advantage of the complimentary WiFi, and to enjoy
in-room dining for quiet nights or lazy mornings
in.
At # 3 the Kimber Modern is tucked
away within Downtown Austin's vibrant SoCo district. Designed
to be comfortable bright, and technologically sophisticated, the
boutique hotel offers a unique escape for urban
travelers. In each room, a custom maple bed
and desk integrate with the hotel's style. The
frosted glass bathrooms contrast with a sleek molded
maple reading chair that fits into a light-filled
nook. Keyless entry eliminates the stress of checking
in, and complimentary wireless internet is found throughout
the premises.
The common area is the hub of the
hotel Here, sliding glass floor-to-ceiling doors create harmony
with the courtyard. The walls are hung with
artist Margo Sawyer's metal boxes and a painting
by Gretchen Gammell, while a modern rug covers
the floor. In the kitchen, there is a
European style self-serve coffee system, as well as
a wet bar offering still and sparkling waters
and Italian sodas.
Located atop San Francisco's Pacific Heights neighborhood, the
Hotel Drisco takes the # 4 spot. Dating
back to 1903, Edwardian design elements imbue this
establishment with traditional details. Modern amenities have been
added to the common areas and rooms to
make every guest's stay enjoyable, without compromising any
aesthetic features.
The rooms and suites are outfitted with pillow-top
mattresses, Egyptian cotton triple sheets, goose-down comforters, and
Merino wool throws and pillows made exclusively for
the Hotel Downstairs, a complimentary wine reception is
held each evening in the dining room, where
a rotating selection of California wines as well
as an array of artisan cheeses charcuterie fruit,
and hors d’oeuvres are served.
Ending the list at # 5 The Jefferson
has been operating since 19 23 when it
was formerly a residential apartment complex. The Beaux
Arts building by architect Jules Henri de Sibour
was the first to be erected on 16th
St. between Lafayette Square and Scott Circle. It
was converted into a hotel in 19 55
and quickly became an address of choice for
discerning travelers to Washington DC.
Today, guests can enjoy The Jefferson's unique collection
of antique furnishings, curated art, and library of
books. During the structure's two-year renovation, a large
skylight was discovered in the lobby, which had
been covered since World War II. This boutique
establishment now combines modern-day amenities with an abundance
of historical influences for guests to experience.