What’s your Alibi? The Liberty Hotel

What if I told you that my husband and I stayed in a city jail for two nights? Would you believe me? Well, you better, because that is precisely where we stayed (kinda… ok, it is a hotel now, but it was a jail!) during a recent trip to Boston, Massachusetts. We were recommended to this property from friends who lived in Boston for several years. Our friends talked about its architecture, history and ambiance and they certainly did not let us down.The Liberty Hotel - Boston

Allow me to introduce you to The Liberty Hotel, a part of the Luxury Collection under the Marriott umbrella. The property has a storied past of which they have built into a brand. The Charles Street Jail was built in 1851 and housed some of Boston’s most notorious criminals for 120 years until it was shutdown as it was declared to be unfit for the prisoners.

The Liberty Hotel - BostonThe central atrium, original jail cells and granite contributes to the hotel’s story. When we arrived, I was floored by the exterior with its beautiful stone, the build and the gorgeous windows. When we walked in and up the escalators, bright sunlight filled the 90-foot atrium. We later noticed that the circular designed window within the atrium is a major part of their logo which is an old skeleton key with the same window design at its handle.

I loved the clever references within the names of their food & beverage outlets.

CLINK. –  a refined restaurant with New England fare, seafood & meats.

Alibi (my favorite) – have a seat in an original cell and enjoy a custom cocktail and a late night snack. What I loved most were the celebrity headshots that decorated the brick walls.The Liberty Hotel - Boston

Liberty Bar- an exciting twist on your “lobby bar” as the lobby turns into an energetic, fun, social atmosphere by night.

Scampo – Italian inspired fare created by the Boston-based Chef Lydia Shire.

The Yard (Sean’s favorite)- formerly the recreation yard for inmates, now a chic, beautifully landscaped outdoor bar.

The Liberty Hotel - BostonThe details did not stop in the lobby. Our room had so many unique qualities. The carpeting had a pattern with skeleton keys & time pieces, a pillow with tally marks sat atop a leather chair, one of our & nightstands was a safe. The bathroom was spacious with a soaking tub, complete with fluffy logo’d robes.

The Liberty is an experience from the moment you walk in. If you decide to make a trip to Boston, at minimum make this a stop for your night cap.

 

 

Until Next Time,

Lauren

 

The Liberty Hotel - Boston

The Liberty Hotel - Boston

Wowed by the Wallhouse

This week, I had the opportunity to attend a meeting in Amish Country within Holmes County. It was a bright sunny day with a perfect breeze in the air. Once I got off the main interstate, I rolled the windows down and proceeded through the seemingly never-ending winding roads of hills. It was a gorgeous morning to be making the drive.

My travels continued through farmland, fields and small towns. I was getting very close to my destination but saw so sign of a property. As I made my final turn up the hill and around a corner out of nowhere stood The Wallhouse Hotel in Walnut Creek. A stone and modest exterior stood tall with a neon sign spelling out the name of the hotel. (For those of you who are unfamiliar, The Wallhouse Hotel brand is a part of the Choice Hotels Ascend Hotel Collection.)

Once I entered the property, I was so surprised. Pleasantly, of course. This modern, luxurious gem in the heart of Amish Country boasted neon blue, green, and orange accents. The interiors were sleek and very urban feeling. Behind the front desk pods stood a bold black and silver wall with the statement “W” logo.

The lobby area has excellent lounge space with white leather chairs and couches, a fireplace, clear glass tabletops and shiny black flooring with those exciting and unexpected accent colors. The 62 sleeping rooms & suites carry over the same vibrant color scheme. Each bedroom sported a tall white headboard, white sheets, charcoal carpeting, an accent wall and lime green table and pillows. The meeting space was just as fresh & clean as the rest of the property. Black and white photos lined the striking robin’s egg blue walls.

If you are looking to get the big city feel without the big city traffic The Wallhouse is certainly a great option. You are bound to be – pleasantly – surprised at every turn!

Until Next Time,

Lauren