Miami Historic Hotels
Miami’s historic hotels offer a window into the city’s past, blending architectural charm with modern comfort. These establishments have witnessed decades of change, from early 20th-century glamour to the present-day luxury, making them prime destinations for travelers interested in history and hospitality. Many have undergone significant updates, ensuring they provide exceptional service and amenities that cater to today’s discerning visitor.
Many historic hotels in Miami have evolved to cater to a broader range of travelers. While some may lean towards adult-focused experiences, others are increasingly offering amenities and family-friendly services. It is always best to verify specific offerings directly with the hotel to ensure it aligns with your family’s needs.
The Balfour Hotel Miami Beach
A South Beach Art Deco Gem
The Balfour Hotel stands as a distinctive property on Ocean Drive, offering a unique experience in South Beach. This hotel is ideal for those seeking a blend of relaxation and exploration. Visitors can easily access the beach for sunbathing, explore local shops, or enjoy the neighborhood’s retail offerings. Dining is a highlight here, with options that serve a fusion of Latin and Floridian coastal cuisines, designed to appeal to various palates.
The Balfour’s ambiance caters to both the active explorer interested in local history and tours, as well as those preferring to unwind by the pool. Its location allows for easy exploration of Miami’s past and landmarks, making it a well-rounded choice for different types of travelers.
Foodies
Art Deco Enthusiasts
The Clay Hotel
A Colorful Past in South Beach
The Clay Hotel in Miami is noted for its colorful history, having once hosted figures from both the criminal underworld and entertainment industry. In its early days, it was a hub for Al Capone’s gambling operations. Over time, it has welcomed notable guests such as Elton John and Sylvester Stallone. Though no longer the center of a specific cultural craze, the hotel remains just two blocks from the white sand beaches of Miami, providing easy access to popular coastal activities.
Its location on a block lined with restaurants in South Beach’s Art Deco District makes it particularly appealing to food lovers. Dining options are plentiful, including a Mexican restaurant on-site with both indoor and outdoor seating, offering a convenient culinary experience.
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Solo Travelers
The National Hotel Miami Beach
Art Deco Charm and Adult Relaxation
The National Hotel is situated within Miami Beach’s notable Art Deco neighborhood. Constructed in 1939 and a member of Historic Hotels of America, it offers a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities. This hotel is particularly suited for adults seeking a getaway without children, or friends planning a trip focused on relaxation and socializing.
Guests can enjoy the hotel’s private beach and its renowned infinity pool, which is noted as the longest in Miami Beach. For those wishing to explore beyond the hotel, it provides convenient access to Miami’s iconic attractions and a variety of city activities. This makes it a balanced choice for guests desiring both on-site tranquility and city exploration.
Groups of Friends
Relaxation Seekers
The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables
Mediterranean Sophistication and Golf
The Biltmore Hotel Miami Coral Gables has been a landmark of sophistication since 1926. This iconic hotel attracts visitors who appreciate grand architecture, beautiful landscapes, and elegant design. Its Mediterranean style offers a visually stunning environment for a variety of travelers, including those interested in culinary experiences, nature, or golf.
The hotel is home to the historic Biltmore Golf Course, designed in 1925 by Donald Ross. This 18-hole championship course is suitable for both individual play and group outings. For guests seeking relaxation, the hotel also provides a spa with various treatments, including massages and facials, offering a peaceful retreat.
Romance
History Aficionados
The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club
Exclusive Beachfront Luxury
The Four Seasons Hotel at The Surf Club is a distinguished property along Miami Beach, carrying a rich history from its origins as an exclusive members’ club established in 1930. This club hosted notable personalities. The hotel, which opened in 2013, now provides a luxurious vacation spot that retains some of the original club’s ambiance while offering contemporary comfort.
The hotel features a world-class spa, providing a range of relaxing and rejuvenating services. For dining, guests can enjoy options like a champagne bar set among palm trees and beachfront restaurants. The surrounding oceanfront community is known for its beauty and pedestrian-friendly environment, offering pleasant strolls and scenic views.
Couples
Wellness Retreats
The Betsy
Art Deco Elegance on Ocean Drive
The Betsy is an elegant hotel located on Miami’s Ocean Drive. Its building, designed by L. Murray Dixon in 1942, is notable as the only surviving example of Florida-Georgian architecture on Ocean Drive. While the hotel has been updated over the years, it successfully merges modern comforts with vintage charm.
Guests can expect well-appointed rooms, some offering striking views of the Art Deco district, the hotel’s Atrium, or the ocean. The Betsy is also recognized as a pet-friendly establishment, providing enjoyable dining options and activities for all guests. Its prime location on Ocean Drive places it at the heart of Miami’s famous scene.
Pet Owners
Art Deco Lovers
The Palms Hotel & Spa
A Pioneering Wellness Resort
The Palms Hotel & Spa, originally the Sea Isle Hotel built in 1940, is one of Miami’s foundational resorts. Designed by Roy F. France, it remains one of Miami Beach’s few family-owned and operated luxury resorts. The hotel played a role in shaping the Miami Beach skyline and has since evolved into a luxurious wellness retreat.
This resort is a strong choice for eco-conscious travelers, especially after joining Beyond Green, a global collection of sustainable hotels. It offers a tranquil environment and comprehensive wellness facilities, making it suitable for guests of all ages seeking rejuvenation and a connection with nature.
Wellness Seekers
Families
Fontainebleau Miami Beach
Iconic Architecture and Entertainment
The Fontainebleau, a grand hotel on Collins Avenue designed by Morris Lapidus, is a Miami Beach icon that has stood since the 1950s. At its inception, it was recognized as one of South Florida’s most luxurious and largest hotels. The Fontainebleau maintains its glamorous reputation, having hosted numerous celebrities over the years, including Elvis Presley and Mariah Carey.
This hotel has a significant presence in popular culture, having been featured in films such as “The Bodyguard” and “Scarface.” Its architecture has also received acclaim, earning it the Top Building in Florida award from the American Institute of Architects. The Fontainebleau offers a lively atmosphere with extensive amenities, making it a destination for entertainment and architectural appreciation.
Architectural Enthusiasts
Groups
The Marlin Hotel
Art Deco Boutique on Collins Avenue
The Marlin Hotel, constructed in 1939, is an award-winning boutique hotel situated in Miami Beach’s celebrated Art Deco District. During the 1990s, its in-house recording studio was a favored spot for artists like Jay-Z, Mariah Carey, and Kanye West. This history, combined with its sleek design and state-of-the-art amenities, makes it a unique lodging option.
This hotel appeals to art lovers exploring Miami’s seaside cultural scene, from its beaches to street art and Art Deco architecture. Its central location on Collins Avenue, just two blocks from the beach, offers immediate access to Miami Beach’s iconic shopping, nightlife, and entertainment areas, providing a convenient base for experiencing the city.
Art Enthusiasts
Trendsetters
Eden Roc Miami Beach
Mid-Century Design and Beachfront Access
Eden Roc, designed by architect Morris Lapidus and opened in 1955, is a significant historic hotel located on Collins Avenue in Miami Beach. The hotel provides spacious guest rooms, many featuring large balconies that offer ocean views and fresh air, contributing to a relaxing stay.
For active guests, Eden Roc boasts three beachfront pools, and direct access to the beach allows for further enjoyment of the coastal environment. The surrounding neighborhood is rich with activities, including restaurants, nightclubs, and shopping, offering ample opportunities to experience what Miami is known for. It provides a blend of relaxation and access to the city’s energetic offerings.
Beach Lovers
Nightlife Enthusiasts
Exploring Miami’s historic hotels offers a unique way to connect with the city’s past while enjoying modern amenities and coastal beauty. Each property tells a story, providing a rich backdrop for any vacation. Travelers can discover these stories while enjoying the unique charm and hospitality these buildings have to offer.
