If you’re ready to escape to Cabo, Mexico and stay at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, read all about this exceptional property!

The Waldorf Astorica is located in Western Mexico, the place where the Pacific Ocean meets the Sea of Cortez. This rugged coastline’s beauty is truly mesmerizing. In Los Cabos, there are a number of mid-level, upscale and luxury resorts that attract travelers all year — with stunning ocean views. These stunning beachfront locations feature sprawling pool decks and terraces — steps from golden sand.

The Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal is the luxury brand’s first resort in Mexico and it was developed to reflect the dramatic, natural landscape.

Recent Cabo visitors probably know this hotel’s former incarnation was the Resort at Pedregal. The Waldorf Astoria unveiled this current name in late 2019.

An impressive retreat in every sense of the word, this unique resort provides an elegant yet casual, beachy ambiance throughout the expansive property.

From the moment of arrival at the outdoor lobby area, guests are greeted by the jaw-dropping view that stretches across the lovely infinity pool to the deep blue ocean beyond. And there are amenities galore: access to several swimming pools, a massive spa, a kid’s club, a 24-hour personal concierge team and much more.

The 119 guest rooms and well-appointed residence suites all feature exceptional comfort, including oversized bathrooms with large soaking tubs, gas fireplaces and massive terraces with plush patio furniture. If that weren’t enough, each room features its own private plunge pool and stellar ocean views.

With a number of incredible dining and beverage experiences created by an expert culinary team, guests have the opportunity to eat and drink like royalty as they enjoy the picturesque ocean and beautiful beach views during their visit. Here are a few of the authentic and memorable offerings at this extraordinary resort:

El Farallon restaurant

Perched next to a rocky cliff above the crashing waves on the far side of the resort, El Farallon is the hotel’s scenic premier restaurant. With beautiful sunset views over the ocean and lights that shimmer after dark, it offers a magical al fresco dining experience. Its rustic wood tables are illuminated by glowing lanterns, creating an atmosphere of beachy elegance.

The menu features an abundance of “ocean-to-table” delicacies, including sea bass, red snapper and jumbo shrimp (to name a few). This locally-caught fresh seafood is made with different homemade preparations and sauces that change daily. (There’s also rib eye steak and other non-fish dishes for those who prefer meat).

Be sure to arrive for dinner early and sip a pre-meal cocktail. Order a glass of chilled bubbly at the adjacent champagne bar and lounge and soak in the beauty of this stunning oceanfront destination.

Champagne on the beach at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal resort’s Va Y Viene beach bar

If you’re seeking a romantic, fun (and completely Instagrammable) experience, this is certainly a great place to start. Situated on the sand and overlooking the crashing waves, this area features wooden swinging chairs surrounding a full-service bar that serves up an array of fine Champagne offerings.

It’s an ideal spot to celebrate the sunset – and toast your vacation as you swing in the breeze.

Don Manuel’s restaurant

Showcasing modern delights inspired by the classics, Don Manuel’s is the resort’s signature eatery that’s open for breakfast and dinner. This stylish open-air restaurant features jaw-dropping views of the beach and ocean from just about every table.

Guests can start the morning off with a delectable breakfast that includes omelettes and plenty of local favorites (as well a fresh fruit smoothie bar) prepared with local, organic ingredients.

In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a sophisticated and lovely terraced destination. A few dinner specialties include roasted totoaba “Veracruzana” with capers, olives, tomato, chile sauce, celery root and spiced beets; catch of the day “Zarandeado” with peanuts adobo, orange and salad with cilantro; and braised lamb shank “mixiote” style with roasted vegetables, ancho and guajillo chile sauce.

Crudo Bar

The resort’s unique Crudo Bar is situated in the shade under the thatched pavilion adjacent to the main swimming pool. Ideal for a snack, the bar offers a wide selection of freshly prepared items, including catch of the day tiraditos; black shrimp ceviche; seafood molcajete; tostadas and zesty Mexican-inspired rolls made with fresh, regional ingredients.

While dining, guests love to stay refreshed by relaxing in the seats in the pool or sitting at a high-top table in the shade – all while sampling some of these specialties and gazing out across the infinity pool at the Pacific. (For more casual selections, the adjacent pool restaurant also serves salads, tacos, wraps and more).

The not-to-be missed signature cocktail, the Pedregal Reyes, is made with tequila reposado, Ancho Reyes chile liqueur, grapefruit, pomegranate, lime and orange juice.

Cooking classes on the property

Who says you can’t learn something on vacation? For those who wish to pick up a few culinary techniques while on this magnificent property, there are several opportunities.

The resort offers several one-hour personalized cooking classes held at the resort’s oceanfront hacienda-style kitchen, where attendees get an exclusive lesson in authentic Mexican cooking by a professional chef. The classes focus on using indigenous ingredients and shows how to make local specialties such as tamales, mole sauces and an array of fresh ceviche.

Tequila tastings for beginners and experts

In addition to the culinary classes, the resort also offers a series of private tequila tastings at the resort’s stylish, open air restaurant, Don Manuel’s. These tastings are suited for the novice, as well as those more experienced in the world of tequila.

The beginner classes focus on the history of the spirit and introduce the diverse expressions of un-aged and aged tequila: blanco, reposado and anejo. The advanced course covers the different types of agave, “terroir” and styles. (As an added bonus, guests can also participate in cocktail or exclusive Mexican wine tasting classes as well).

Gourmet snacks delivered to your room

So just when you thought you weren’t hungry, think again! Delectable snacks are certain to appear in your room throughout your stay, including a daily bowl that’s overflowing with crispy housemade corn chips and chunky guacamole that are, simply put, quite addictive.

This zesty treat is accompanied by a frosty Mexican beer with thinly-sliced lime – best enjoyed while soaking in the in-room plunge pool while admiring the sunset. During your stay, guests may also find a platter of colorful tropical fruit, as well as a Clase Azul premium tequila that’s served in a beautiful ceramic keepsake bottle.

Private dinners

And for those who wish to dine with their own group of traveling companions, the resort can set up a beautiful private sunset dinner on the beach (or elsewhere on the resort), featuring all of your favorite menu items.

After all these exciting culinary experiences at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal, there’s yet another option: an unparalleled in-room dining program that features many delicious specialties. So even if you choose to retreat to your room by yourself, you’re guaranteed to be served a memorable meal.

The post Hotel Review: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal 2023 appeared first on Marla Cimini.

The Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort is an expansive beachfront resort and the second-largest on the island of Maui. Located on the southwestern coast’s golden crescent of sand in the upscale Wailea neighborhood, the resort is emblematic of a picture-perfect Hawaiian getaway. Sprawling, tropical gardens, meandering pathways, a wedding chapel, several swimming pools, bubbling fountains, beach access, a massive spa, multiple restaurants, and more all curate an idyllic escape. 

As a frequent Hawaii visitor, I’ve been to the islands multiple times over the years for vacation, business trips, my own honeymoon, and a friend’s wedding. And whenever I find myself on Maui, I always choose the Grand Wailea. Renowned for housing the largest private art collection in Hawaii with sculptures, paintings, and other artifacts, the resort is ideal for the well-heeled set seeking a luxury vacation, while still being welcoming to families. The luxe Waldorf property is a member of Hilton Worldwide, offering brand loyalists the chance to earn and redeem points in this resort with a coveted beachfront locale.

There’s so much to discover, it can be fun to get lost wandering around the grounds — as long as you don’t mind all the walking. With a large resort of this size, there can be plenty of that. 

Rooms vary from standard garden view varieties to mid-tier oven view offerings, and even multi-bedroom villas. Due to the size of this property, there’s constant upkeep and refurbishment required. At all times, there always seems to be an area under renovation or in the midst of a refresh.

I recently stayed in a Deluxe Ocean View room, comped for review, but starts at $750 per night, plus tax and a resort fee. While in line with other luxury Hawaiian hotels, it’s far from cheap, and the kind of worthy splurge you’ll only make once in a while. But when you do, it promises to feel worth it.

There’s no place in Hawaii quite like the Grand Wailea thanks to its incredible first impression.

The stately, breezy main entrance leads to an outdoor, white stone lobby, where I was given a flower lei, a tropical welcome cocktail, and warmly greeted by a resort representative who ushered me to the front desk for check-in.

As I’ve stayed at this hotel a few times over the years, I’ve found that this process usually takes several minutes. The resort is massive and the check-in attendant provides an unhurried and thorough introduction to the property, giving an overview of its multiple restaurants, pools, spa, etc. The hotel is comprised of several buildings, so guests are also shown the location of their room and a few key sights on a small paper map. I was prepared for this, but keep it in mind if you’re arriving with significant jet lag and encounter a queue.

Despite the laidback tropical ambiance, this hotel gets busy, and it’s not unusual to see large groups of families or business professionals gathering for celebrations or corporate events. Thankfully, the crowds can’t manage to dilute the picturesque feeling, and the property is so large, I’ve always been able to enjoy my own space among the natural beauty of the gardens and beach.

The rooms at the Grand Wailea are well-appointed and tasteful, and each has a lanai, or, private balcony. 

On my recent visit, I stayed in the mid-tier Deluxe Ocean View room, which was comped for review purposes but typically starts around $750 per night.

This 640-square foot-room category was recently renovated and designed simply with wood floors, minimalist furnishings and a neutral color palette with splashes of seafoam green. The room itself was not lavish but felt streamlined, updated, and comfortable in terms of size and decor. Unlike most island properties, the look felt Scandi modern rather than the overt Hawaiian look more typically seen.

I found the bed to be on the firm side, which I personally prefer and slept well. When I’m in Hawaii, I usually wake up pre-dawn the first few days due to the time difference and enjoyed watching the sunrise from the room’s lanai, which was spacious with comfortable seating for two on cushioned reclining chairs separated by a wooden table. The stunning view overlooked the lush gardens and the ocean waves beyond.

The room also had a desk with two chairs situated close to the lanai, and I found it delightful to have a view while catching up on work. I travel with several electronic devices and was relieved to find the room’s technology up-to-date, with plenty of electrical outlets, and fast Wi-Fi. 

The room also had a mini-refrigerator, coffee maker, 55-inch flat-screen TVs, and a sizable closet with robes and slippers.

The well-lit bathroom was spacious with an abundance of counter space, excellent lighting, and an oversized glass-walled shower and a separate soaking tub. Although the bathroom was sizeable, and could easily be used as a changing room, it wasn’t renovated. Though the extra space certainly made up for the lack of updates, and I enjoyed the honey mango scented bath products from the on-site Spa Grande.

I enjoyed room perks such as excellent housekeeping and nightly turn-down service, though I did struggle with personalized service at such a large hotel. For example, when I tried to call the front desk for a question, I had to listen to a lengthy recording and it was a challenge to actually reach a live person.

Additionally, be prepared to get your steps in. Since the property is so spread out, and the rooms are as well, it was about at least a seven-minute walk to the lobby, and about the same distance to the pool. And with the meandering garden pathways, there’s no quick access to the beach. 

If you’d prefer slightly cheaper accommodations, the Deluxe designation is only a slight upgrade over regular Ocean View rooms, in that they’re located on higher floors. Most rooms are situated on a diagonal to provide full or partial ocean views so choosing standard Ocean View is hardly a compromise.

The lowest-priced standard room is a Deluxe King or Queen Garden View, which similarly, only differs in view. It starts at approximately $651 per night, so if you don’t mind sacrificing a view of the ocean, it’s a good way to save $100 nightly, while still enjoying a vantage point over the beautiful landscaping.

A unique luxury property that’s considered one of the top resorts in Hawaii, Grand Wailea won’t come cheap, especially for an ocean view room. But for the overall experience and ambiance, I would happily pay these room rates to stay at such a magnificent resort. 

The Grand Wailea features such an incredible number of amenities that you really don’t need to leave the property. As such, a daily resort fee of $45 is added to each room per night and covers a variety of guest-only amenities and activities. Valet parking costs an additional $40, plus tax, per day, and self-parking is not available.

There are several pools, including the Wailea Canyon pool, an aquatic dream for families and kids. It’s over 2,000 feet long and features nine connected pools on six levels, surrounded by tropical foliage. There are several large and small water slides, three hot tubs, six waterfalls, rope bridges, swings, a “water elevator,” and a baby pool as well.

Adults are also welcome to enjoy the family pool area. My splash down the network of water slides took almost 30 minutes that included floating under waterfalls and down lazy rivers.

But when it was time to relax, I preferred the 5,000-foot-long Hibiscus Pool, which felt less frenetic and offered a lovely space to enjoy the afternoon. Due to the resort’s large size, I found lounge chairs readily available and attendants to help set them up, though private cabanas are available to rent as well.

The resort’s Spa Grande also should not be missed. The largest spa in Hawaii at 50,000 square feet, it features 40 treatment rooms and an extensive menu of services. Their one-of-a-kind “Healing Waters of Maui” hydrotherapy circuit is an oasis of waterfalls, saunas, and several specialty baths.

There’s also a large, modern fitness center with workout machines and a selection of weights. I never found it crowded, likely because there are so many other outdoor activities to try. 

The Grand Wailea features several restaurants and bars across the property at different price points.

The most impressive is Humuhumu, a beautifully-designed fine dining rustic outdoor restaurant on the resort’s lagoon with stellar ocean views. It’s known for a romantic ambiance and the menu showcases farm-to-table, delectable Polynesian cuisine with a large selection of freshly-caught seafood. Sunsets are especially dazzling here. I suggest asking for a table by the water if you want the most optimal vantage point. 

The post The Grand Wailea Resort, Maui Hotel Review appeared first on Marla Cimini.

With so many picturesque and enchanting classic Greek islands to choose from, it can be a bit daunting to select just one charming locale for a getaway. Of the 227 inhabited islands in Greece (of nearly 6,000), these three favorite destinations offer unforgettably authentic yet diverse experiences: Santoríni, Crete and Rhodes.

The sun was about to set, and we hastened our pace along the rocky coastal trail to reach our destination, the scenic town of Oia on Santoríni’s northern tip. My husband and I decided to hike the six miles from Fira that afternoon to see the stunning views of the sun melting into the horizon, a must-do activity on Santoríni. Part of the journey brought us along the narrow, winding footpath and then later along a trail of volcanic soil, past whitewashed homes, churches and other structures topped with iconic cobalt blue domes. Along this cliffside walk, we soaked in the panoramas of the famed caldera, glistening brilliantly in the late-day sunshine.

We arrived at one of the top classic Greek islands, took our place among the assembled crowd facing west and celebrated the end of another day in paradise. If you’re seeking to step into a picture postcard, Santoríni is certainly the place to do it. Visitors can’t get enough of the jaw-dropping sapphire Aegean Sea, and an abundance of hotels and guest houses deliver on the mesmerizing view. It’s no wonder this island casts a spell on those who visit the mythical home of the lost city of Atlantis, it offers pure magic. The southernmost island in the Cyclades lies about 120 miles from the Greek mainland and is known for its legendary vistas and laid-back vibe. Featuring mountainous terrain, everything here is on a slope, with meandering footpaths steep and uneven in places.

As glorious as it is, Santoríni offers more than exceptional views. Visitors can take in cruises to the volcano, snorkeling trips and other water activities. On land one can easily rent a car or hire a local guide for an island tour. Gorgeous beaches (black, white and red sand) abound and range from rustic and remote to busy — such as Perissa and Perivolos — offering chairs, umbrellas, cafés and other facilities. Wine enthusiasts can swing by some of the island’s many wineries for tastings and tours and learn about indigenous grapes such as Assyrtico. History buffs appreciate the ancient Minoan city of Akrotiri and several museums, including the Archaeological Museum of Santoríni.

Exquisite shops line narrow passageways, offering handcrafted jewelry, art and other items. And, of course, food lovers adore the variety of restaurants elevating this island to a gastronomic destination. Specialties include Greek lamb; pork and seafood dishes such as grilled octopus and dorado, the white, flakey, Mediterranean fish; as well as classic moussaka and fresh, locally grown vegetables.

On the island of Crete, the first traveler I met was a British woman reclining on a lounge chair by the swimming pool and reading a book at our boutique beach hotel, Ammos. “You’re only here for a few days?” she asked incredulously, taking pity on my limited vacation time. “We’re staying for six weeks.” I glanced at the waves lapping at the tranquil shore of the Cretan Sea a few steps away and clearly understood why someone would choose this destination for an extended trip. While you can easily spend years exploring Greece’s largest island, Crete houses a number of incredible world-class attractions you can visit within a few well-planned days.

With a rugged coastline and expansive mountain range, the one of the classic Greek islands offers a diverse landscape — including steep gorges and winding rivers — alongside historical sites dating back centuries, such as the ancient palace and ruins of Knossos. Located on the northern coast near Heraklion, the island’s capital, this spellbinding archaeological excavation should not be missed. The heart of Minoan culture thousands of years ago encompasses more than 20,000 acres.

On the western side of the island, Crete’s second-largest seaside city, Chania, features a picturesque Venetian harbor where locals and tourists gather throughout the season. Visitors can dine at a number of lively restaurants and cafés along the water and wander along the narrow, twisting streets, popping in and out of the many boutiques. Those curious about local history are in luck, as Chania boasts a naval museum, archaeological museum and maritime museum. And if you prefer relaxing on the sand and taking a dip in the turquoise sea, nearby beaches are easily accessible and ideally suited for swimming. Discover other highlights between Chania and Heraklion.

The medieval port city of Rethymno blends the old and the new with winding streets and a creative vibe, and a multitude of shops offer crafts from local artisans. Meandering around the old town proves delightful, as the diverse architecture features Venetian, Turkish and Greek design. Much like the town itself, Rethymno’s restaurants and bars blend traditional and modern, featuring classic cuisine accented with a stylish ambience. The walled Venetian Fortezza (fortress) perched above the city provides dazzling views from the area’s highest point. Immediately to the east lies a wide, sandy beach complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas and nearby facilities.

Located in southeastern classic Greek islands, the rugged and spellbinding island of Rhodes is the capital of the Dodecanese and was once a major trade hub. With a rich, multicultural history, it’s a haven for design enthusiasts, who can easily see the Roman, Turkish, Greek and Italian influences in the amalgamation of diverse architecture throughout the entire area. Although the island of Rhodes can’t be fully discovered without a car or other mode of transportation, the city of Rhodes proves best explored by walking. In fact, only residents are allowed to drive an auto within the Old Town walls.

It is great fun to get lost in this charming city. With more than 200 unnamed twisting and narrow streets, it offers a prime opportunity to embrace adventure as you wander around the labyrinth of cobble-paved lanes and appealing squares. Arriving in the city provides an authentic and exhilarating experience as well.

Recognized as one of the oldest continuously inhabited medieval cities in Europe, the Old Town welcomes visitors through impressively majestic gates, setting the proverbial stage by offering an invitation to take a step back in time. Strolling along the bustling Street of the Knights, the main drag, visitors have the opportunity to browse an array of shops, pause for a Greek coffee or savor a meal at a neighborhood taverna. Some of the restaurants and cafés offer rooftop dining with stunning views of the sea and port. The city’s top sites include the Palace of the Grand Masters of the Knights of Rhodes (aka Kastello). Refurbished in 1940, this stunning castle features Gothic architecture and houses museums and artifacts unique to Rhodes. The Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, housed in the former Hospital of the Knights, also proves a favorite destination among history lovers.

Visitors can see the harbor entrance, where the famed Colossus of Rhodes statue once stood. This bronze wonder of the ancient world fell during an earthquake in ancient times. Outside the city you’ll find many gorgeous beaches, quaint villages and ancient sites around the island. A few top attractions include the beautiful village of Lindos and the nearby acropolis dedicated to Athenia Lindia, with its spectacular views of the city and surrounding crystal-blue waters. On the western end, the Valley of the Butterflies nature reserve attracts thousands of fluttering creatures from spring to fall.

And what’s a trip to Rhodes without a beach day? The island’s west side is ideal for wind or kite surfing, while the eastern shores offer an abundance of beaches (with and without facilities) for snorkeling, stand-up paddle surfing or swimming. A few of the more popular are Elli Beach, Kallithea Springs and Anthony Quinn Bay, named after the famous actor who starred in the 1964 film Zorba the Greek and who loved and vacationed on the island.

The post Greek Classics: Embrace Island Time On Santoríni, Crete And Rhodes appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Originally published in Frommers

Like the ocean it’s named after, Atlantic City has risen and fallen with the tides over the years. The New Jersey icon was the Gilded Age’s preeminent playground by the sea, the Prohibition era’s wild gangland capital (as depicted in HBO’s Boardwalk Empire), and, following the legalization of gambling in the 1970s, the East Coast’s answer to Las Vegas. More recently, the resort town’s fortunes have been at an ebb, thanks to an economic downturn that forced five casinos to close their doors. 

But after several dry years, Atlantic City is surging once again, with new casinos, new renovations, and a new energy. First-time and returning visitors to the Boardwalk will find an all-American classic that has finally gotten a 21st-century makeover. Of course, some old standbys don’t need changing, and so we’ve included a few of those reliable attractions in our look at the newly revitalized Atlantic City.

Pictured: The Multimedia Light & Sound Show at Tropicana Atlantic City 

One of the most encouraging signs of an Atlantic City renaissance is the 2018 opening of the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino (1000 Boardwalk) in the building once occupied by the Trump Taj Mahal, which closed in 2016. A top-to-bottom overhaul banished the golden gaudiness of the previous iteration, replacing it with Hard Rock’s bold colors and guitar god aesthetic. Rock memorabilia on display: Elvis Presley’s Rolls Royce, John Lennon’s handwritten lyrics for “Imagine,” and a guitar signed by New Jersey’s own Jon Bon Jovi. There are several live music venues, too, and guests have access to perks such as curated playlists and electric guitars delivered to their rooms for free (on a first-come, first-served basis). 

Next door to the Hard Rock is another once-shuttered property that has reopened under new management: Ocean Resort Casino (500 Boardwalk). It’s located in the former home of the Revel—the tallest building in town. Affiliated with Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, the Boardwalk hotel has 1,400 freshly renovated rooms and suites, each with views of the Atlantic Ocean. If you can tear yourself away from the windows, make a point to sample the dining options, including chef Marc Forgione’s American Cut steakhouse and two restaurants from chef Jose Garces (Amada and Distrito) specializing in Latin American and Spanish fare. As in the Revel days, the hotel’s party scene ranks among the Boardwalk’s wildest. Cut loose at the pool-centered HQ2, featuring a robust lineup of world-famous DJs.

The Boardwalk’s southernmost resort, the imposing Tropicana (2831 Boardwalk) is always buzzing with activity throughout the casino, restaurants, and expansive shopping area (pictured above). In recent years, Tropicana has invested over $200 million in refurbishing this behemoth, which has 2,400 rooms, 26 restaurants, and 20 bars and lounges. Among the improvements: a pedestrian walkway—sorry, “sky bridge”—connecting the main building with the retro-hip Chelsea Tower. Cross the bridge to reach the Chelsea Five Gastropub (a restaurant with panoramic ocean views) or the rooftop Cabana Five Bar and Pool Deck for live entertainment, food, drinks, and cabana rentals. 

It’s been four decades since Atlantic City’s first-ever casino—and the first legal casino in the United States outside of Nevada—opened its doors to massive crowds. Just in time for that anniversary, Resorts Casino Hotel (1133 Boardwalk) completed a $30 million makeover of its nearly 500-room Ocean Tower. Bathrooms, furniture, carpets, artwork, and even the wallpaper all got an upgrade, with a coral- and sand-colored palette recalling the beaches just outside. Elsewhere onsite you’ll find 10 restaurants, shops, an indoor-outdoor swimming pool, and, of course, the 80,000-square-foot casino that put the place on the map. The property is just a 5-minute walk from the Steel Pier and adjacent to the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, which connects to Resorts by a pedestrian walkway.

Even one of the Boardwalk’s oldest attractions has a big new draw. Decades ago, the Steel Pier (1000 Boardwalk) was a massive indoor-outdoor entertainment destination known for dances and musical performances (jazz, swing, and, later, rock bands including the Rolling Stones) as well as carnival rides and novelty acts. Most memorably, this was where the famed diving horse and its rider would jump off a 40-foot-high platform into a 12-foot-deep pool of water—an attraction that ran off and on from the 1920s to the ‘70s (and you thought horses dragging carriage rides had it bad). Due to declining tourism, the pier closed not long after the last equine plunge, but the amusement park was reopened in the 1990s and remains in operation today. An eye-catching addition in late 2017 was The Wheel, a 227-foot-tall Ferris wheel with 40 gondolas offering stunning views of the ocean and shoreline. From the pier, you can reach your next destination by hopping on a tram car (for a few bucks you can ride all day) or an old-school rolling chair, a two-seated wicker vehicle that functions like a rickshaw in reverse, with a driver pushing from behind.  

Now let’s take a breather. It can be easy to forget in a casino, but the original draw to Atlantic City was its wide beaches and their soft golden sand. Sun worshippers can rent chairs and umbrellas in front of several Boardwalk hotels, including Resorts, Tropicana, and Hard Rock. (Daily rates are usually above $30, sometimes less if you have a casino loyalty card). There’s also the public Atlantic City Beach, one of the few stretches of sand in the state where paid admission passes (“beach tags” in Jersey lingo) are not required. If you’re into surfing, Atlantic City has a great shore break—rent boards and take lessons at AC Surf School, located at New Jersey Avenue. All along the shore, casual walk-up options for food, fruity cocktails, and live music abound.

Some Atlantic City institutions need no improving. One of them is the White House Sub Shop (2301 Arctic Ave., not far from the Tropicana), which has been serving up cheesesteaks, Italian subs, and other delectably unhealthy overstuffed sandwiches since 1946. Among its many high-profile fans was Frank Sinatra, who frequently stopped by when he was performing in town and, when he wasn’t, had the hoagies flown across the country to his home in Palm Springs, California. The sandwiches are just that good. For the quintessential experience, order the White House special, which involves extra helpings of salami, ham, provolone, and capicola. Be sure to arrive early at lunchtime—it’s not unusual to see a long line of hungry guests waiting outside. 

Another storied Atlantic City dining landmark, the Knife and Fork dates back to 1912. It’s nearly impossible to miss—the bright white castle-like facade is adorned with green shutters and checkered with a pattern of decorative crisscrossed knives and forks. The location is super-easy to find, too: It’s situated where three main streets converge (Atlantic, Pacific, and Albany Avenues) in the heart of town. The closest casino is Tropicana, several blocks north. 

Originally a men’s club, it was once a frequent haunt of infamous racketeer Enoch “Nucky” Johnson. During Prohibition, the restaurant was known to serve alcohol, for which the police eventually raided it. A few years ago, the Knife and Fork was restored to peak condition, with a refreshed exterior, expanded bar area, and new wine room. The place maintains a strong sense of nostalgia, though, particularly in dining rooms adorned with black-and-white vintage photos of the beach and Boardwalk as well as shots of Sinatra and his Rat Pack cronies. The menu is hearty: steaks, seafood, an extensive wine list, and housemade desserts. 

And while we’re on the topic of historic spots for food and drink in town, here’s another we can’t resist . . . 

Atlantic City street names aren’t the only references made to the town in Monopoly. Locals say that the board game’s red hotel pieces were modeled (in shape, not color) on this building, constructed in the 1800s and repurposed in the 1920s as a speakeasy. Whether or not that’s true, the Irish Pub, which has been the name of the joint since 1972, is a festive spot for a Guinness, pub grub, live music, and lively conversation right on St. James Place, just steps from the Boardwalk and within a few blocks of Resorts Casino Hotel. 

For excitement off the Boardwalk, visit Atlantic City’s scenic Marina District, home of the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. Known for having upscale amenities along with the expected slot machines, the resort features a sprawling, 50,000-square-foot spa and five fine-dining options from celebrity chefs including Wolfgang Puck (whose American Grille is pictured above), Bobby Flay, and, the resort’s newest addition, James Beard Award winner Michael Symon. The hotel’s adjacent Water Club at Borgata is even more luxurious—it has another spa and designer boutiques. Although the Borgata is not located on the Boardwalk, it offers a great view of the Atlantic City skyline and operates free shuttles (with towels and beach passes included) to nearby Brigantine Beach.

Before you leave town, you’ve got to pay visits to the two classic landmarks that bookend Atlantic City on its northern and southern sides. To the north stands the Absecon Lighthouse, which dates to 1857 and, at a height of 171 feet, is the state’s tallest lighthouse. It’s no longer used to signal vessels in the Absecon Inlet, but you can climb to the top for a view of the shore (donation requested). A short drive south of Atlantic City will bring you to residential Margate City, home of Lucy the Elephant (9200 Atlantic Ave.), a highly Instagrammable National Historic Landmark built in 1881. The 65-foot-high, 60-foot-long wood-and-tin pachyderm was originally created to boost real estate in the area—because who wouldn’t want this plus-size beauty for a neighbor? Today, the structure is open to the public for tours (small fees required) that go every 30 minutes and culminate in an ascent up a spiral staircase inside Lucy to reach panoramic coastal views at the top.

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In Southern California, the town of Pasadena is a great place to visit! It’s a very short drive from Los Angeles and it’s filled with unique art galleries, lovely design, and fascinating architecture. For most of us, the town of Pasadena, California, is synonymous with the Rose Bowl and its legendary Tournament of Roses Parade, the exquisitely colorful annual extravaganza held every New Year’s Day, featuring intricately designed floats that are decorated with thousands of vibrant flowers and organic materials, and they first rolled down the sun-soaked streets in 1890.

Pasadena, however, offers more than simply an abundance of multi-hued blossoms. With a name that means “crown of the valley,” it’s also an interesting destination for art and architecture. Connected to Los Angeles via the Arroyo Seco Parkway, Pasadena is 11 miles from downtown L.A., but far from Hollywood’s glitz. Instead, it offers a quiet sophistication and thriving community for those who are visiting Pasadena.

“The city of Pasadena was founded by culturally minded citizens who valued both art and architecture. As a result, there has been a huge sense of patronage that has been fostered throughout the years,” says Rochelle Branch, the city’s cultural affairs division manager. Branch points to a few specific examples, including music (the Pasadena Symphony), dance (the Pasadena Dance Theatre, which presents “The Nutcracker” each year in the historic San Gabriel Mission Playhouse; the modern dance company Lineage Dance; and the Pasadena Civic Ballet), and, of course, myriad ways to experience the visual arts.

With a population of about 142,000, the city is expansive and its neighborhoods are best explored both on foot and by car. Visitors may be pleasantly surprised by the robust offerings packed into this small town. For example, in the Old Pasadena district alone, more than 200 boutiques, cafés, and restaurants are spread across 20 historic blocks that includes the main thoroughfare, Colorado Street.

An ideal way to experience the city’s art is through one of several self-guided art walk tours that showcase various works by local and national artists, including murals and interactive sculptures. And while meandering through downtown, visitors can’t help but admire the 1920s Mediterranean Revival architecture of landmark buildings, such as Pasadena’s city hall and the Central Library.

Nearby, one of the city’s most impressive art destinations is the Norton Simon Museum. This private art collection, housed in a minimalist structure, features European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, modern works, and a collection of South and Southeast Asian art spanning 2,000 years. It includes works by Cezanne, Degas, Picasso, Rembrandt, and many others. In a serene outdoor café set within a sculpture garden and pond filled with water lilies, guests can easily imagine that Monet would have felt right at home here.

Across town, visitors can easily spend a full day strolling through the world famous Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens. Every year, this sprawling research and educational institute hosts more than 750,00 visitors. Recent enhancements include the new 8,600-square-foot, $10 million-dollar, glass-enclosed, American art wing that opened in late 2016. The Huntington’s art collections focus on European art from the 15th to the early 20th century and American art from the late 17th to the late 20th century. And each season, the botanical garden offers special experiences, so it’s best to plan accordingly. April, for example, is the ideal month to see the rose garden in its full glory and enjoy the splendor of the cactus garden’s brightly colored blooms. The gardens also feature several restaurants and cafés, including a dumpling house situated by the serene lake in the tranquil Chinese-inspired Garden of Flowing Fragrance. The gift shop offers items from local artisans, including jars of orange marmalade made with fruit from the gardens’ own grove.

When it comes to architecture in Pasadena, the city hosts a premier example of the Arts and Crafts movement, the famed Gamble House built by renowned architectural firm Greene and Greene. Tours are arranged in advance, and visitors can choose from an array of experiences guided by professional docents sharing behind-the-scenes stories. Nearby, design buffs can catch a glimpse of the town’s only Frank Lloyd Wright house — hidden in plain sight.

Tucked away in a residential neighborhood is another unexpected gem, the Storrier Stearns Japanese garden, located across the street from the lovely Arlington Garden. For design fans, the quiet neighborhood surrounding the historical luxury hotel, the Langham, is perfect for viewing a multitude of Craftsman homes built by Greene and Greene and their contemporaries.

The Pasadena Museum of California Art shines a spotlight on modern artists unique to the Golden State. The 30,000-square-foot building was developed by architect Johnson Favaro and opened in 2002. Every museum has its surprises, so peek in the parking garage for a glimpse at the Kosmic Krylon Garage exhibition of street art painted by artist Kenny Scharf.

Exhibiting innovative revolving shows, the cavernous Armory Center for the Arts features awe-inspiring contemporary art and performances. It also offers a robust roster of weekly classes for both children and adults.

And although Pasadena shines brilliantly when it comes to outstanding large-scale museums and its public art collection, there are also notable small galleries in town, including Galerie Gabrie and Tirage Fine Art Gallery. Both feature plein air works as well as diverse pieces from international artists.

For those with a thirst for creativity, Pasadena is an under-the-radar escape from the big city of L.A. and is very much worthy of several days of exploration. With the delightful wealth of art and architecture in this city, it’s no wonder visitors leave feeling artistically inspired.

The post Visit Pasadena, California and enjoy art and design 2022 appeared first on Marla Cimini.

Works of public art often become iconic landmarks in cities across the United States. Think of Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”) in Chicago, the Statue of Liberty in New York City or Mount Rushmore in South Dakota. And at least one of your friends probably has a photo taken in front of Elmgreen & Dragset’s Prada Marfa, the abandoned Prada store that appears as a mirage 26 miles outside of Marfa, Texas.

From sea to shining sea, the U.S. is filled with fine art in plain sight. Sculptures or murals highlight street corners and courtyards, museum-quality pieces are displayed in public view and site-specific works break the monotony of the everyday hustle. Such creative efforts prove that art is meaningful as a collective experience.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt established a legacy of public art with the Works Progress Administration, which employed hundreds of artists and resulted in more than 100,000 paintings and murals and more than 18,000 sculptures, as part of a Great Depression relief program. Participants included the best minds of Abstract Expressionism: Jackson Pollock, Lee Krasner, Willem de Kooning and Mark Rothko. Today, more than half of the states in the U.S. participate in “percent for art” programs, allocating a percentage of infrastructure costs (typically about 1 percent) for public artworks. And over the last 40 years, the number of cities in the U.S. that have adopted public art ordinances has grown to more than 300, writes Jack Becker in his introduction to Public Art/Public Space, the Sculptural Environments of Barbara Grygutis.

Public art also generates exposure for artists, offering collectors a fresh opportunity to view their work. In Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for example, the SculptureWalk program features a selection of mixed-media statues displayed along the city’s uptown, downtown and East Bank neighborhoods. The statues are displayed for 12 months and replaced each May. In 2017, the program introduced 56 new statues with an estimated value of $1.2 million. Of the 750 sculptures on exhibit, 200 have been sold, leased or commissioned and others remain as part of the permanent collection.

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In Northern California, courtyards, cottages and creative arts combine to form Carmel-by-the-Sea’s subtle and elegant charm. Drawing visitors from across the world, this town of one square mile overflows with art and natural beauty. These elements intertwine with distinctive architecture, including homes that appear to be plucked from a fairytale and placed into this delightful beach town.

Located on the Monterey Peninsula, about 120 miles south of San Francisco, Carmel-by-the-Sea is easy to explore on foot. Its downtown area is lined with galleries, boutiques and restaurants. Behind buildings, more than 40 narrow, hidden passageways twist and turn, opening onto courtyards often adorned with outdoor sculpture or artwork. The courtyards were constructed in the 1920s, around the time when Hugh Comstock’s Dollhouse Tudor houses and shops were built. The small- town ambience is palpable; there are no addresses or parking meters. Aside from Carmel’s tiny downtown, sidewalks are nonexistent. 

And seemingly always, the Pacific Ocean is steps away. For a breezy sea stroll, simply walk toward the beach, which is dog friendly (along with many hotels, restaurants and other establishments). The town’s streets slope downward to the Scenic Bluff Path that stretches from tony Pebble Beach to Point Lobos, offering glorious views overlooking the waves, gardens and cypress trees along the way. 

Famous in recent years for its former mayor, Clint Eastwood, who still resides in town, Carmel-by-the-Sea transports visitors to an earlier era with its history of attracting spirited, ambitious talents. After the massive 1906 earthquake destroyed much of San Francisco, many artists, writers and musicians fled to Carmel and established a thriving colony. At the time, the city’s Arts and Crafts Club was in its infancy and welcomed the creative community with open arms and budget-friendly rents. Among the renowned writers who called Carmel home were Sinclair Lewis, Mary Austin and Upton Sinclair, and artists such as Percy Gray, Anne Bremer and William Ritschel found inspiration along Carmel’s shores.

This Bohemian haven was incorporated on October 31, 1916, and celebrates its centennial anniversary this year with special events. Take, for instance, the citywide parade (planned by the organizers of the Rose Bowl parade) and celebratory lunch on October 29. There’s also music, theater, dance, art and culinary events planned through December.

With approximately 100 galleries situated within the town’s borders, both avid collectors and casual visitors find Carmel a dreamy art destination. For enthusiasts, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a rare treat: to observe and interact with artists while they work in their studios. Notable artists include award-winning sculptor Steven Whyte of his namesake gallery; as well as Mary Titus of Titus Contemporary Gallery and Galerie Plein Aire’s husband-and-wife team, Jeff Smith and Cyndra Bradford. These artists open their studios to the public and are often found behind the easel or in the midst of sculpting a new masterpiece. Other standout galleries include Trotter for early California art; Cassandria Blackmore for contemporary glass works; and Gallery Sur, which showcases sculpture and photography. A trusted way to make the most of gallery visits is through Carmel Art Tours, led by local expert Rohana LoSchiavo, who offers custom walks based on her 25 years in the fine art world. 

While admiring the artwork in Carmel, it’s impossible not to be inspired by the diverse architecture as well, which ranges from shingled bungalows to modern designs. Over the years, renowned architects have left their mark here, including Frank Lloyd Wright, Charles Sumner Greene, Hugh Gutterson and others. At the corner of Lincoln Street and 6th Avenue sits the first house built by architect M.J. Murphy in 1902. Known as the “First Murphy House,” today it’s home to the Carmel Heritage Society Welcome Center. 

For more extensive art experiences, the Carmel Art Association, the second-oldest cooperative in the U.S., features multiple rooms with exhibits from numerous local and regional artists. For those short on time, the stunning entry garden is certainly worth a peek. Nearby, the Center for Photographic Art is a nonprofit that advances the Central Coast’s photographic arts through education and exhibition. It evolved from the renowned Friends of Photography established in 1967 by Ansel Adams and other photographic luminaries. Today, the organization holds installations and events throughout the year. Another major attraction is the historic Carmel Mission Basilica, with its museums and galleries. For visitors with an extra day to explore, the Monterey Museum of Art, located outside of town, features works by contemporary regional artists along with legendary talents. 

After combing through galleries, it’s delightful to relax and enjoy the culinary scene. Anton & Michel is a popular modern European restaurant, while Vesuvio offers Southern Italian specialties with views from a lively rooftop patio. Located in the landmark Cypress Inn, Terry’s Lounge features an outdoor courtyard, craft cocktails and an extensive menu, including specialties such as truffle ravioli and chicken piccata. 

Spending the night in Carmel offers more opportunities to admire the area’s history and architecture. The elegant L’Auberge Carmel is a 20-room Mediterranean-style inn with a top-rated restaurant, Aubergine. Nearby, the Cypress Inn is a landmark hotel built in 1929 and co-owned by legendary actress Doris Day. The luxurious Carmel Country Inn is a bed-and-breakfast-style retreat in the center of town. 

Much like its hidden courtyards, Carmel-by-the-Sea reveals itself to visitors in subtle ways, rewarding travelers with lingering aesthetic treasures. From the hypnotic waves lapping the shoreline, to an artist quietly working in a studio, to the understated design of a beachfront cottage, the town appeals to artists of all kinds and remains an artistic oasis today.

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Offering an artistic odyssey, the city of Portland, Oregon, blends a range of art and architectural styles, dating from thousands of years ago with the tribes of the Pacific Northwest to more contemporary offerings that have inspired the slogan “Keep Portland Weird.” A diverse destination, the city of roughly 600,000 people attracts a melting pot of individuals with varied interests and earnest passions. 

You’d be hard-pressed to find another American destination with such a lengthy list of monikers: Rip City; Little Beirut; People’s Republic of Portland; Bridgetown; Puddletown; Stumptown; P-Town; PDX; and City of Roses. Art aficionados might add another nickname to the roster, perhaps “City of Art and Ambition” or “City of Sculpture” could define the town’s dynamic community. After all, Mark Rothko, the Russian-born Abstract Expressionist painter, lived here. And seemingly dozens of institutions provide art education, from the Art Institute of Portland to the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts to a recording arts school. 

The Willamette River divides Portland across its east and west shores, and Burnside Street splits the city north and south, respectively. Artful treasures are found throughout each of Portland’s neighborhoods, from elite galleries to DIY artisan festivals and splashes of public art. 

The city’s mild climate is best from June through September. But, rain or shine, wandering through Portland is delightful. As a pedestrian-friendly city, consider touring by bicycle on more than 300 miles of paths or travel via public transportation on the light rail or streetcar systems. 

In Portland, art lovers have endless opportunities to immerse themselves in notable, prestigious collections while still getting acquainted with smaller galleries featuring the works of emerging artists. An ideal place to begin is The Portland Art Museum. Designed by Pietro Belluschi, it is the oldest museum on the West Coast, housing more than 40,000 works in its collection, including Native American, European and contemporary offerings. This summer, the museum will host an exhibit exploring the sculptures and drawings of Allied Works Architecture, along with an exhibition of Native American fashion spanning more than 50 years. 

Located nearby, architecture buffs can admire a behind-the-scenes look at the famed 1920s Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall. Designed by Rapp and Rapp, the Italian Renaissance venue will host a range of summer performances from Portland’s symphonic choir to NPR’s “Wait, Wait, Don’t Tell Me” news-quiz program to comedy legends Steve Martin and Martin Short, as well as Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys. 

A short drive away is the sustainable Gerding Theater at the Armory. Situated in the Pearl District, it’s the country’s first LEED-Platinum renovation of a performance hall. This summer, catch Tennessee Williams’ iconic Pulitzer Prize-winning play “A Streetcar Named Desire,” as performed by Portland Center Stage, the city’s leading professional theater. 

The renovation of this 1891 theater also helped revitalize Portland’s Pearl District, noted for an art scene that shines its own spotlight on thought-provoking paintings, sculpture and multimedia pieces from local and international artists. It’s easy to spend an afternoon at PDX Contemporary Art, which features an array of exhibits, including abstract works from famed Oregon artist James Lavadour of the Umatilla Tribe. Nearby, the Froelick Gallery invites guests to view pieces from Native American artist Rick Bartow, whose sculptures greet visitors at the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. Other standout galleries include the contemporary Elizabeth Leach Gallery; Blue Sky, which specializes in photography; and Upfor, with an emphasis on digital media.

Demonstrating the city’s enthusiasm for creativity are its many art walks. First Thursday has taken place each month since 1986. On the first Thursday of each month, downtown and Pearl District galleries and businesses, including the Pacific Northwest College of Art, debut new exhibitions, stay open late and throw a soirée. Taking place on the last Thursday of each month is Alberta Street’s art walk Last Thursday, offering openings at spaces such as Guardino Gallery and setting the scene for a boisterous street fair that attracts independent artists and performers. Held year-round, the event is busiest during the summer, when the street is closed to traffic. Sandwiched between both, First Friday is hosted by central eastside galleries, studios and alternative art spaces each month. ADX, a shared workshop for everything from metal to textiles, is a fine place to begin.

While hopping from art district to art district, don’t forget to stop and take in the public works dotting the city. Portland’s devotion to art is both overt and subtle, and visitors can find information about monuments from official sources such as the Regional Arts & Culture Council. While strolling downtown, it’s difficult to miss the imposing 36-foot Portlandia sculpture, the second-largest hammered copper statue in the United States (just behind the Statue of Liberty). It’s worth pausing to gaze skyward at its splendor. 

Close by, the city’s first public art installation is the lovely Versailles-inspired Skidmore Fountain, designed in 1888 by sculptor Olin Levi Warner. And downtown you can find the ubiquitous Benson Bubbler bronze drinking fountains. More than 50 of these charming gems are situated around downtown, with the original 1970s fountain at SW 5th and Washington streets.

Not surprisingly, and perhaps inspired by Mount Hood, nature also displays her palette. Flower gardens are a true art form in Portland. At the edge of downtown sits a fragrant oasis, the country’s oldest International Rose Test Garden. Meandering through the rows of brilliantly hued blossoms — interspersed with unexpected artwork — is a delightful way to spend an afternoon. The adjacent Japanese Garden offers more than 5 acres of rustic Zen-inspired pathways accented by statues, artifacts and secluded spots for meditation. The garden recently announced a major expansion to be designed by prominent Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.

The art of eating is not to be overlooked in P-Town either. Portland’s vibrant restaurants and bars offer inventive local flavors and creative choices — from food carts to stylish bistros. A hotspot for breakfast, lunch and dinner, Tasty n Alder is a fun urban eatery with a delectable farm-to-table menu and fresh craft cocktails. OX, a top restaurant in town, features the culinary virtuosity of chefs Greg Denton and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton and their Argentine-inspired delights. In the Mount Tabor neighborhood, James Beard-nominated chef Katy Millard serves up seasonal fare at tiny Coquine, attracting guests from far and wide to sample her inventive spin on French cuisine. Downtown, a historic inn-turned-restaurant, Old Town Pizza & Brewing, offers standard pizza-and-beer fare with a spooky twist. Portions of the city’s infamous Shanghai tunnels remain in the cellar, and some say ghosts remain, too. Ask nicely and you may be treated to a tour at its downtown location. For dessert, those who crave creatively sweet fusions will head to Salt & Straw, an ice cream shop with flavor combinations including pear and blue cheese, and strawberry honey balsamic with black pepper. 

Continue on the art-inspired path by choosing accommodations in one of Portland’s many hip hotels. The boutique Society Hotel was built in 1881 as a Mariners Building and completely renovated in 2013. Today, the property offers several rooms, including budget-friendly “bunk” style dormitory rooms. The Hotel Vintage Portland provides a sense of comfort and community, featuring local modern artwork and cool design elements throughout public spaces and guest rooms. In the heart of downtown, The Nines Hotel boasts an art collection curated by Paige Powell, a native Oregonian and contemporary of Andy Warhol. Situated atop a historic building, the swanky hotel also features a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city’s bustling urban landscape.

Near the Columbia and Willamette rivers, Oregon’s largest city waits in the shadow of Mount Hood, inspiring art escapes that extend to every facet of expression.

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If a vivid imagination is a prerequisite for transforming a dilapidated, neglected property into a brilliantly revitalized destination, then Maya Mallick, owner of the Culver Hotel, possesses an abundance of artistic moxie.

Built by businessman Harry Culver and opened in 1924, the hotel is situated in the heart of its namesake city, located halfway between the Pacific Ocean and downtown Los Angeles. Heralded as a “skyscraper” at the time, the six-floor flatiron structure was designed by local architecture firm Curlett and Beelman in a Renaissance Revival style.

Considered a visionary during the 1920s, Culver promoted his mantra “All roads lead to Culver City,” and the expression rings true again today. The Los Angeles neighborhood is booming with new restaurants, art galleries and shops, and in the middle of this urban rejuvenation sits the Culver Hotel.

As a National Historic Landmark, the hotel is steeped in Hollywood history. It was once owned by legendary actor Charlie Chaplin and later by Western movie icon John Wayne.

The Culver was also home to the cast of the Munchkins during the filming of the 1939 classic “The Wizard of Oz.” Other movie icons lived at the property, including Clark Gable, Greta Garbo and Joan Crawford. Over the years, however, the Culver Hotel fell into disrepair. Shabby and abandoned, it was boarded up in the 1980s and underwent only a partial and short-lived renovation during the 1990s.

Mallick, who purchased the property in 2007, immediately saw the hotel’s bright future. “What truly inspired me was that the Culver Hotel, even in its neglected state, had such a strong presence and the potential to become so much more than just a hotel,” she says. “I fell in love with the space and wanted to be the one to make it happen. I saw it as a unique opportunity to combine all the things I loved — art, design, food, music and travel — with my entrepreneurial background [to make] one single neat little package. It was thrilling.” Enchanted with the property’s character, Mallick decided to forgo an architect and personally handle the details. Working with her sister, Angela, they reimagined the hotel, while maintaining the building’s integrity. The $4-million project took about six years to complete, and the Culver reopened in 2012 as a dashing destination.

The revived hotel breathes with new life, yet invites guests to take a step back in time. All 46 of the sunlit guestrooms, with varying layouts and sizes, are replete with 1920s-inspired bathrooms and updated wood and tile floors. The hotel’s décor is sophisticated and eclectic, with handpicked vintage pieces, custom furniture and cabinetry, and design elements that provide surprising, whimsical touches. Even the hotel’s 150 windows were replaced with handmade panes that meet historical specifications. “There is an instinctive European flavor in the way I see hospitality,” Mallick says. “I have a longstanding love affair with French culture — it’s romantic, aesthetic, musical, historic and artisan; it puts the gourmet in everything.” Mallick added an artsy speakeasy-style bar on the mezzanine level, overlooking the posh dining room with its original black-and-white marble checkerboard floor. Above the dinning room, a multitude of shimmering crystal chandeliers hang at varied heights. Modern meeting and event spaces were built nearby on the second floor and incorporate artistic touches, including detailed crown molding. In addition to structural changes and cosmetic redesign, the electrical and plumbing systems underwent a complete overhaul, including the replacement of the elevator.

The grand lobby, with soaring 20-foot-high ceilings and an inviting fireplace, features several stained and painted columns surrounded by an array of wooden tables and jewel-hued couches and cushions. The lobby also serves as a second restaurant and bar, with an adjacent patio garden offering casual fare for al fresco dining throughout the day. Featuring live jazz music at night, the refreshed property has regained its luster, attracting an energetic crowd of locals and guests. Today, with fresh bouquets of flowers placed throughout the public spaces and guestrooms, the hotel once again embodies the soul of founder Harry Culver.

Revitalized by a woman who shared his vision for vibrancy, the Culver Hotel sparkles with classic Hollywood glamour and remains a true icon.

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