Iris' City Guides: When To Go and What To Explore

Best Historic Hotels in Boston

2015-03-19T07:00:00.000-05:00

Photo by Julie Perry via Trover.com

It just seems fitting to want to stay at historic hotels when visiting Boston. After all, it falls under the historic theme, with Boston being one of the oldest cities in the United States. These hotels are full of fascinating stories, making us wonder what secrets they might reveal if only their walls could talk. There’s more to these hotels than just being old, however. All of them have stunning architecture, unparalleled luxuries, and superb locations that make them attractive choices for any type of visitor.

Architecture Landmark in Back Bay

The Boston Park Plaza Hotel and Towers is a stunning building in the midst of Boston’s Back Bay. Its Beaux Arts architecture, original designs, and unbeatable location right next to the Boston Common are just a few of its remarkable features. The hotel was opened in 1927 and was part of the Statler Hotels, one of the oldest American hotel chains. It occupies one of the city’s most coveted addresses and provides its guests with easy access to Boston’s best shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

Boston’s Hallow and Haunted

Boston’s oldest hotel is easily one of the most revered and most famous hotels in the city. The Omni Parker House has been a Boston landmark since 1855 and has served a range of celebrities, artists, politicians, and famous dignitaries. Current catchphrases like “scrod” and culinary creations still enjoyed today such as Boston Cream Pie andParker House Rolls were born out of its kitchen. The hotel is also known for being one of the most haunted hotels in the United States. There were rumors that Harvey Parker’s spirit continues to roam the hallways of this magnificent hotel.

It’s All in the Family

The Lenox Hotel stands out as a tall, dark, and handsome building among the stunning architectural landmarks of Copley Square. Built at the turn of the 20^th century next to the Back Bay rail tracks, it was once the tallest building in Boston. It was also the preferred hotel by wealthy patrons who would pull up alongside the hotel entrance in their personal rail cars. The Lenox Hotel is the only boutique hotel on this list. Owned and still operated by the Saunders family, they manage to continue offering legendary service while treating their guests like members of their own family.

Artistic Gem in Copley Square

When you step into the Fairmont Copley Plaza, you’ll find yourself in awe of the hotel’s spacious layout and opulent interiors. Built upon the original site of Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts, the hotel features impressive architectural designs inside and out. This Back Bay artistic gem recently went through a major renovation and restoration that brought back the hotel’s original grandeur. Rooms are elegantly designed and furnished with impressive artworks that reflect the culture and influence that’s distinctively Boston.

This article is part of the #HipmunkCityLove series. Check out this hotel summary I wrote about the Fairmont Copley Plaza or visit Boston USA for information on free attractions, events, and the weather.

The Weekender: Vancouver in 48 Hours

2015-03-17T18:40:00.001-05:00

Stanley Park Totem Poles

Ah, Vancouver, British Columbia! The city has been named one of the most livable cities in the world. People just seem happy to live here. And why not? The air is crisp, the scenery is gorgeous, and there’s an abundance of good food and drink. If you are in town this week for the TED Conference, go ahead and extend your trip until the weekend. There’s plenty to do, see, and experience.

Granville Island Public Market

What to Do

It’s hard to choose what to do in a city as dynamic as Vancouver particularly if you only have a short amount of time, but for someone who’s never been to the city before, my suggestion will be to spend your free time in one of the city’s major parks. Stanley Park has biking and walking trails, as well as several points of interests like the totem poles and Prospect Point. Pacific Spirit Regional Park sits on the western end of Vancouver and has several beaches, a botanical garden, and a museum dedicated to archeology.

What to See

Foodies and fans of boutique shopping should head over to Granville Island. Conveniently located just across from downtown Vancouver, this once industrial area has transformed itself into a popular local and tourist hangout. Some of its attractions include The Public Market, which is open all week and features fresh produce and local vendors selling unique arts, crafts, and products. There’s also the Granville Brewing Company which offers tours and tastings to beer enthusiasts. Finally, Granville Island also has a number of entertainment venues, from the improvisational group Vancouver Theatresports League to the professional Arts Club Theatre.

Salmon sashimi

What to Eat

Vancouver is a mecca for seafood thanks to its location bordering the Pacific Ocean. Start with its most popular export, the Pacific sockeye salmon. Most restaurants will have it on their menu but try it as a jerky in one of the gourmet food eateries around town. If that’s not to your liking, you can always go with the safer, smoked preparation. Vancouver is also known as the sushi capital of the west and rumor is that there are more sushi restaurants here than any other city outside of Tokyo. The place to try the freshest and cheapest sushi is this unassuming eatery on Robson Street called Sushi Itoga (old Sushi Mart). Their salmon sashimi is just divine!

Where to Stay

If you’re looking for convenience, consider staying at one of the hotels downtown. The St. Regis Hotel on Dunsmuir is a boutique hotel housed in a historic building near the city’s financial district. Nightly rates begin at $169 and include added amenities such as full American breakfast for two, Fuji bottled water, and complimentary WiFi.

If you're planning a longer stay, check out this more comprehensive guide that includes daytrip information to Whistler.

The Weekender: Las Vegas in 48 Hours

2015-03-08T16:20:00.000-05:00

Las Vegas Welcome Sign

When someone says “Las Vegas”, what are the first words that come to mind? Perhaps words like fun, indulgence, and salacious? Well, maybe not those exact ones, but you get the picture. Las Vegas is America’s playground. People go to there to pamper themselves, loosen their inhibitions, and just have a good time. Thinking of visiting Vegas soon? Here are some recommendations.

What to Do

Red Rock Canyon

Let’s face it. The best activities in Las Vegas occur when the sun goes down and the neon lights on the Strip illuminate every man-made structure, but it doesn’t mean that daytime activities are limited to hanging out on gigantic pools and stuffing yourself at the countless casino buffets. In fact, you’ll find plenty of activities from zip lining to bungee jumping. There are also a number of small and unique museums and galleries worth seeing like the Arts Factory Las Vegas, the Liberace Museum, and the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

What to See

Venture west towards Red Rock Canyon and National Conservation Area and savor a few hours away from the commotion and chaos of downtown and the Las Vegas Strip. The park has over 30 miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and biking paths. There is a cleverly constructed welcome center that also serves as an observation deck where you can learn about the unique geological features of Red Rock Canyon. There is also a 13-mile scenic drive that loops around the canyon.

What to Eat

Arepas at Viva Las Arepas

Downtown Las Vegas is the place to go for outstanding eats especially if you are on a limited budget. Eat is swiftly becoming the place to go for breakfast and weekend brunch. Their fluffy pancakes and sinful cinnamon biscuits are crowd favorites. Viva Las Arepas is a no frills Venezuelan joint offering tasty and filling “arepas”, the Venezuelan version of sandwiches. #1, wood fire beef and #7 reina pepiada (chicken breast with avocado, mayo, and cilantro) are its most popular items.

Where to Stay

You’ll likely hear people drop big name casino and resorts like the Wynn or the Bellagio as the place to stay in Las Vegas, but check out Hotel 32 for something unique, classy, and intriguing at the same time. This boutique hotel is housed inside the Monte Carlo Las Vegas occupies the 32^nd floor of the hotel. Top-notched service, a certain degree of exclusivity and extra amenities that rival 5-star resorts are just a few of its perks. The best bit…nightly rates begin at just $157.¹

¹Rate is exclusive of taxes (12%) and resort fees ($25/night)