Last August, Don and I  stayed at our 9th National Park Lodge. My old brain is starting to confuse some of these wonderful places!

Olympic National Park

But our stay at Lake Crescent Lodge, in Washington's Olympic National Park, felt very different.

This time we a shared Notable Lodge Adventure, with my sister and sister-in-law! 

Lodge on the Lake

There was nothing grand about the  lodge, sitting beside the lake. Maybe that's why I liked it. 

It had a homey feel. The front porch and lake-facing sunroom made the lodge feel more like a New England resort.

Singer's Lake Crescent Tavern

The resort opened with a different name in 1915. There were 7 upstairs guest rooms and a row of wood-framed cottages. 

The duplex cottages looked inviting, but they weren't historical. They were from the 1980s.

They looked quaint with their porches and rockers, but I was glad we'd booked rooms in the lodge.
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The Lodge

When we checked in at 4:30, the lobby wasn't as peaceful as this morning photo. 

I wonder what this open space was like in 1937, when President F.D. Roosevelt visited. I read that he spent  a lot of time in the room with the stone fireplace, trying to decide whether to sign the bill of law to officially create Olympic National Park. He did the following year.

Cozy Space

The lobby was lively when we arrived. A line had formed at the bar and the music seemed to be catering to the young folk, instead of the retired folk. Fair enough.
(click to enlarge)

Walking down the narrow hall I felt like I'd stepped back in time, to one of the family camps my mother used to describe. White washed walls, pipes near the ceiling... an open window.

5 Rooms

There are only 5 original rooms left upstairs. My fingers were crossed that ours might be above the sunroom, with a lake view. 

No luck. Ours was on the back, near a chimney.

My sister Jennifer took this fine photo of me looking out our narrow window.

Dorm Room

I knew that the room I'd booked had 2 single beds, no TV and no phone or bathroom. But I still was a little surprised at how tiny it was. 

We had one table and lamp, plus a shelf with towels and surprisingly a coffeemaker. A bench was placed in front of a door that led to another guest room. 

Luckily Jennifer and Kate were in the next room. The walls were so thin we didn't need to open the door to make plans.  

Don and I laughed at our cramped dorm room.  We're always willing to put up with a little inconvenience, to stay in an epic, historic place. But we also are a 12 years older than when we started these Notable Night Adventures!

Jealous!

"No fair!" is something you learn to say frequently when you're a little sister. I played my whiny younger sister role when I saw Kate and Jennifer's room. "No fair! You have a big window! Wait, why to you get a sink and we don't!"

We did have some slippers, but no robes for shuffling down the hall to the bathroom in the middle of the night. 1 bathroom for the ladies and 1 for the men. That can be tricky, sharing with 5 guest rooms. I was forced to brush my teeth in the women's shower room.

Searching for a Spot

At 5:30, the lobby music didn't appeal to us, so we looked for seating elsewhere. The sunroom was a good option with its open windows.

I love a front porch! It was entertaining watching visitors come and go.
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Lake Activity

Even better, there was lots of activity to watch on the nearby beach.

It was curious to imagine back in the day, when guests first arrived by ferry. The lodge was a very remote resort, before the Olympic Highway wasn't built in 1922.  

Lake Time

Jennifer and I suddenly couldn't sit still on the porch. We left Kate and Don for while to stick our feet in the lake.

It wasn't as cold as you'd guess for a lake created by a glacier. But it was clearer than expected. 
 
"Lady of the Lake"

I wonder how many of the guests enjoying the lake, knew about the sad story of Hallie Illingworth. I'm glad I didn't know it at the time.

After our stay, I learned that a 37-year-old lodge waitress went missing, days before Christmas in 1937. Her abusive husband was later charged when her body was found in the lake. Yikes.

I'm glad the only surprise we found in the water was a sweet duck.

Ready for Dinner

It was hard to give up our perfect porch spot, but we had dinner reservations.

We entered the dining room beneath a giant elk head. The stone fireplace added some character, but low ceilings and boring woodwork was a reminder that the dining wing was added much later.

Our server seemed professional and the menu offered some tasty options, but service was a bit slow.  

Which meant I had a spare moment, to run outside.. and check on the sunset.

Jennifer stepped out as soon as I returned and got a better photo.

What a glorious view!

​Morning

After dinner, the upstairs guest hall was pretty peaceful. No one stayed up later, which meant I was up and wandering very early the next day.

It was fun to head downstairs and have the lobby and porch to myself. I wasn't by myself when I wandered the grounds a while. The frisky squirrels were going crazy in the trees above me! Were they aiming at me with those pinecones?

Too Short

After a tasty breakfast in the dining room, we packed up and headed off.

As we passed the lineup of kayaks and paddle boards, we were reminded that we really hadn't begun to enjoy all the lodge and lake had to offer. We were leaving too soon.

What's Notable?

Lake Crescent Lodge was a perfect balance of lodge and lake. The outdoor space felt lively and peaceful at the same time. Even when the beach was filled with families, there was a calm vibe. There were more looking at books than phones.

The lodge looks and feels like a big home. In fact it made me crave a family reunion. Jennifer and I sat on a log talking about that very possibility. Maybe someday?
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Don and I booked a night after we saw amazing photos on the internet. It was the design that lured us, but once we arrived we learned what was behind every detail of the building! 

Eco-Friendly

Populus is the first carbon-positive hotel in the U.S. The website explains that its main purpose is "to provide sustainable, nature-inspired lodging while actively removing more carbon dioxide from the air than it emits over its entire lifespan."  

Besides all the practical reasons behind the design, the building just looks plain cool! The whimsical windows absolutely delight me! There are 365 of them. ​

Some ground floor windows are as tall as 30 feet. Those crazy shapes are fun, the way they make the hotel look like a giant cheese grater. But they're practical. The built-in hood on each window, acts as an awning keeping rooms shaded and channeling rainwater away from the glass.

Inspired by Trees

A narrower view made the building seem more futuristic... something for space travel or maybe some rising structures in a Seuss book, or an old Jetson's cartoon.  

But it was really the aspen tree that inspired the design of this hotel. Think of an aspen grove, where tall trees stand side-by-side... white bark covered with dark eye-shaped scars.

What is Populus?

I'm a huge fan of quaking aspens, but I never knew the term Populus Tremuloides. 

The hotel was named Populus, for the scientific name that basically means trembling poplar. Love it!
 
Inspired by Nature

We arrived at 2:30 and got a warm welcome from staff behind the magnificent lobby desk... made from a fallen Rio Grand cottonwood tree! Every nook and cranny of this hotel was carefully planned with nature in mind.

Cameron checked us in and told us some intriguing facts about our nature inspired, luxury hotel. He explained the hotel's One Night One Tree initiative, that I had read about. Our one night stay, meant that one tree would be planted. The hotel is 1.5 years old and over 34,000 have been planted so far.

​Common Spaces

Cameron pointed out the Pasque Restaurant, with its "mushroom tapestry" which we learned more about later.

He also pointed out the Little Owl Coffee Cafe, beneath the floating staircase. I asked the barista what her favorite part of the hotel was. She said the rooftop garden.

I stood back and scratched my head, as I stared towards the curving shapes of the counter and stairway.

I found the interior as mind boggling as the exterior. There was something very alive about the shapes and lines... almost growing in different directions.

Before heading to our room I made a quick dash up those stairs.

I found a peaceful lounge with modern seating and earthy colors... a ceiling made from reclaimed snow fencing. 

Comfy chairs looked out towards the aspen-eye windows, making me feel like a kid, peeking out of a treehouse.

I Love a Surprise

I headed back to the coiling stairway and took in the view. How I love a hotel with some stair drama! I've been known to book a hotel just because they have exciting stairs. But I'd booked this hotel for its magical exterior. The stairs were an added surprise!

No sliding down this railing, but I rushed down on foot, eager to grab Don and check out our room. 

Birds & Curves

The elevator offered another surprise. I found myself scratching my head again, when I thought I heard a bird singing softly. It wasn't a trapped bird, but a lovely recording that was created for our riding pleasure. 

The doors opened and we stepped into a corridor as dim and quiet as a forest. Did I smell the scent of cedar? Before we reached our door, we met up with a curving wall of concrete. Another reminder that our hotel was as unpredictable as nature. Would we see any straight lines in this hotel?

Arches

I was glad our room number was lit... my eyes are old. The shape of our lovely lamp mimicked the the arched windows that greeted, when we stepped inside the room.

I loved how the windows lightened the room after the dim hall. Mostly I loved how the shapes created frames for our fun city view!

Lots of Wood

We noticed a lot of wood in the hotel structure, but also in smaller details. Instead of a plastic door "key"  we had a round wood key, with swirling rings. Even the envelope that held the keys had a purpose. Seeds were built into the plantable paper. 

A wooden box held a QR code for tipping... and we could dangle a wooden sign on our door handle, to remind housekeeping that we were hibernating!

Round and Green

There were very few angles and no bright colors in the room. Rounded shapes and soft earthy colors.

A roundish desk held a round lamp. Green chairs with curved backs, sat beside the bright round eye-window.

2 pine green glasses and a matching slim pitcher made our water taste even fresher.

We found the water dispenser in the hall. Pure and cold! Without the waste of disposable cups.

Angles?

Even the bedside tables avoided harsh angles.

A few interesting goodies from books to phone chargers, were within reach. A piece of art sort of floated above the table, as if it had been caught by a breeze.

Concrete Ceiling

The hotel was built using a low-carbon concrete mix. There are a few eco-friendly purposes for using concrete. Insulation is one of them. 

For me the raw looking ceiling was just another fun surprise, when I  plopped back on the bed. It gave me a  unique way to visualize the shape of our room. No rectangular room for us!

Zen Bathroom

The spotless bathroom was pleasant from the sweet framed buffalo image...

... to the sweet smelling bath products!

​Room Entertainment 

It seemed a little sinful to turn on the TV, to anything besides a nature documentary. But it was Father's Day and this Daddio chose a World Cup match. Fair enough!

Moments later he had better entertainment. Calls from his kiddos!

Window entertainment was my first choice for spending a few minutes chilling. I sat on the bed and studied the view. ​

I actually got to witness 2 little birds coming my way. No worries about hitting the window. The "fritted" or dotted glass broke up the reflection. They were warned and just perched on the sill for a moment.

Drinks at Pasque

Around 6:30, Don and I headed downstairs to enjoy Pasque's bar. Ethan did much more than shake up martinis for us. When we inquired, he was eager to share everything he knew about the creation of this remarkable hotel.

Ethan explained how the terrazzo floor was made from locally sourced rocks, gathered near the South Platte River. He pointed to a crack and explained how that happens naturally. 

Off to Dinner

At 7:30 we headed for the elevators. I paused for a dramatic pose on the stairs. Cheers to cool stairs!

We headed up to the top floor for dinner at Stellar Jay. Named for that wonderful crested jay, that we've seen on many a roadtrip, west of the Rocky Mountains.

I snapped a few photos earlier, when I went up to the rooftop restaurant to change our reservation time.  

At 4:30, the staff let me peek in and I just grinned when I saw views of the Denver skyline. I kept fingers crossed that we'd end up with a table near a window!

We did! 

We ended up at one of the few small tables, near an aspen-eye window!

Sitting on the side of the table I noticed a hand-decorated card welcoming us. I looked around and saw nothing like it on any other tables.

Our server Jaylen greeted us, "Aren't you celebrating a roadtrip?" she asked.

We were and we made a toast to that! I had totally forgotten that I responded to a question about celebrations, when I booked online. We will be celebrating 47 years of roadtrips together!

​We started celebrating with an order of sourdough bread, with charred onion butter. Yum!

No photos of my roasted chicken or Don's braised bison short rib! Both were amazing, as was the blood orange sorbet with crystallized chocolate! I savored every bite while enjoying the chic dining space, filled with delicious smells from the wood-fired kitchen!

Looking Out

While the evening progressed I kept an eye on the amazing view behind my chair. I also popped up a few times to check out other views. Stellar Jay's barstools offered some great views.

I stepped outside to see the terrace lounge, which was empty due to drizzle. Looking back at the window I could see the reflected image of the city. Above the window, I spied the roof garden that the barista mentioned.  

Next I turned towards the city and took in the view of Denver, on a damp Sunday evening.

The gold dome of the capital looking extra dramatic with stormy skies!

The clouds blocked the 8:30 sunset... 

...but the view from our table was ever-changing, with the weather and lighting. ​

Night Shots

​I was determined to see what our hotel looked like when it was lit at night. Don and I stepped out for a while.

It was indeed impressive, but the windows weren't all glowing like I for some reason expected. This is an eco-friendly hotel after all.  

Don and I walked just a bit before turning in. 

I wanted to show him the wonderful statue I'd seen earlier across the street.

Night Windows
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We were back to the room before 10, to enjoy a whole different kind of view through the windows.

There wasn't much happening on a Sunday evening. Which was good I guess. The concrete building did its job. We heard no sounds from inside or outside the building.

​Before 6 am

We both slept well, even though I had only pulled the drapes closed over the larger window. I wanted at least see one of our special windows in view, all night.

Before 6 am I got up and to a look. Sleepy Denver on a Monday.

Morning at Populus

Since I was up, I decided to throw on shorts and tennis shoes.

I took the elevator to the second floor and admired the displayed slice of tree. 

I studied the beautiful woven rugs, on my way to the spacious gym.

My photo only shows one piece of the spotless fitness room. I had the gym and all the windows to myself, while I did a short workout. 

Wandering

I saved a little energy for a brisk walk. The air was fresh and clear after the rain.

I wandered the triangular block once again and ventured towards the capital and other nearby buildings. So peaceful before 7.

Coffee

We made coffee in our room with our electric kettle and coffee bags.

We took our pretty clay mugs with us to the second floor lounge.

There was no need to rush before continuing our roadtrip that morning. We would end up having a picnic in Vail a few hours later, where we studied aspen trees with a whole new appreciation!

What's Notable?

Our stay was even more entertaining and comfortable than I expected. The hotel felt luxurious and classy, while it put a gentle spotlight on nature and ecology. There was nothing intimidating or braggadocios about all the hotel's eco-friendly details. The staff was extremely welcoming and helpful. I love how everyone we spoke with shared a refreshing enthusiasm for Populus.

Memorable Views! That's what I'll remember most. It was exciting to see  the grand exterior, from different angles. But seeing the views from our room (and at dinner) through those fabulous windows, was the absolute best!

Cheers to aspen-windows from inside or out!
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Don and I first visited Healdsburg nearly a decade ago. We noticed the hotel sitting on the south side of the Plaza.

We finally got to stay, last May!

Historic Kruse Building

I found this vintage photo that shows the building at the turn of the century. 

The building hasn't changed all that much in 126 years. However, the use of the building has. When it opened in 1901, there were 4 businesses on the second floor, each with a bay window. The first floor held a Healdsburg Shoe House, and a few other shops.

Fresh and New

The lobby looked bright and modern when we arrived on a Tuesday afternoon.

The modern decor was lovely, but I was happy to see some of the original features, like the staircase.

Originally there wasn't a building on the other side of the exposed brick wall. Today there's an ice cream shop sharing that wall. 

Finding Our Room

Our host at the desk was very welcoming and walked us to our room in the Carriage House. 

We could opt to walk through the hotel, or use a key to open a gate near the sidewalk. The gate opened to a passage between buildings and I loved peeking at some of the old brick. Evidently much of the exterior brick was damaged in the 1906 San Francisco earthquake.

Upstairs to #12

Our room was upstairs in what had once been the old Carriage House. 

We had to climb a few stairs. I caught a glimpse of the rear of the hotel from the top of the stairs.

We stepped onto the balcony before entering. We made good use of that later.

The room with king bed and fireplace was very comfy. Although I did whack  my shin on the corner of the bed frame. A month later, my scar is reminding me, that I need to invent a cushy corner cover that I can pack for travels! 

Our balcony view was pretty and private, with lush spring growth.

Our balcony also had a view of the restaurant next door and a parking lot, but no need for pictures of that.

We made good use of our private balcony with coffee in the morning.

Later, we ate deli sandwiches at the table. Hmm? Who took the photos of the relaxing couple on the balcony? Gotta love a camera timer.

Sitting Area

There was a bonus room, sitting area, between our bedroom and bathroom.

Besides 2 nice comfy chairs, we had a coffeemaker and fridge, a wardrobe and another TV.

​The bathroom area was divided into 2 rooms. There was lots of counter and shelf space in the room with double sinks. 

I always appreciate a good tub for soaking!

Exploring the Hotel

There are only 12 guest rooms in the hotel, so I didn't expect to find too much when I went exploring. But I always love to peek around.

The trip up the beautiful staircase was a start. 

The building became an inn over twenty years ago and I'm not sure how many changes were made. It's possible this staircase was actually moved.

A skylight at the top of the stairs offered lots of light.

There was a tiny hall with 2 doors at jaunty angles. I picture a slapstick moment when 2 guests decide to exit their rooms at the same time. 

Wine and Breakfast

Just past the hall with the comical doors, there were a few steps leading to a room filled with skylights, tables and windows. This space was actually right above the neighboring ice cream shop. 

The first evening we attended the complimentary wine and cheese hour. Besides sipping and nibbling a bit, we ended up having a great conversation with Mary Anne and Joel who were celebrating an anniversary. What a wonderful hour we spent gabbing about everything from diaries to bagels.

In the mornings we returned to the upstairs room and enjoyed the view of The Plaza while we ate a complimentary breakfast.

The food options were a little different on both days.

We met the cook, who did a wonderful job! The Mexican egg dish and potatoes were outstanding.

Lobby Chats

Both mornings, we headed down the stairs and chatted with our host. 

We had lots of questions and she filled us in on a few things, but mostly we pondered the same questions.
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​I noticed a framed photo near the lobby desk that got me wondering.

I could see that the old Kruse Building stood alone in the photo. I wondered about the lovely nearby courthouse, which is no longer in Healdburg. I was told the grand building did not survive the 2006 earthquake.

Stepping Out

Both mornings were lovely for walking after breakfast.

The trees in front of the ice cream shop sort of hid the 6 windows on the second floor. The building where we'd eaten breakfast was obviously added after  1906.

The Plaza 

The Plaza in front of the hotel had a bandstand and a rather modest fountain.

To me the star features of The Plaza, were the amazing trees. The towering redwoods and palms seemed to be competing for a height prize. Funny how small the trees looked in the vintage photo.

Location

Being near tree-filled Plaza was a plus, but it was the restaurants and shops around the square that made our location ideal.

The restaurants we tried were fabulous. There are actually 5 Michelin recognized restaurants in Healdsburg. And Healdsburg is small!

What's Notable?

Don and I spend a lot of time jumping from 1 hotel to the next. It was a treat to have 2 days and 2 nights to enjoy our stay at Healdsburg Inn.

Our stay involved an historic building. The Kruse building was beautifully refurbished and decorated and that wasn't really a surprise. We were staying in the heart of the wine country, an area that lures finicky travelers. The room wasn't cheap. But we were sort of surprised to find ourselves so comfortable with the host and other guests. Our stay felt homey and classy at the same time. We much enjoyed the comp wine and breakfast! The inn's location was beyond ideal and our isolated room was a treat, with its lovely balcony. Next time I might go for a room in the old building. One of the 4 rooms, with a bay window facing The Plaza. That would be perfect!
​

Our reason for the Fort Myers stop, was to see family. Our welcoming stay at Hibiscus House, ended up making me extra eager to return.

​Palms

I lived in Tallahassee as a kid, but never made it to the City of Palms. 

Actually I didn't even know about that nickname when we drove into the city, on McGregor Blvd. The historic boulevard was lined with Royal Palms. Evidently 1,800 of them!

Hibiscus B&B on the Boulevard
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Our cozy House-Turned-B&B-Oasis was waiting for us, right on McGregor.

The Florida pine house looked quaint and homey, under those towering palms.
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Over a Century Old

​We learned later that the house was built in 1912... or 1923 depending on what you read. The home however was not built at this Mc Gregor Blvd location, (south side of the Caloosahatchee River)  A framed article  inside the inn, explained!

The house was built by W.H.Dowling, on north side of the river. After Dowling (the owner of the successful lumber company) died in 1944, his widow Hallie had the house moved across the river.

Split in Half... then Worse

​This 2009 article explains how the house was sawed in half and carried on barges... until both "sank in the river"! 

Luckily the tide rose and freed the structures. Wow!

Coffee Corner

Today the white house on the corner is a B&B, with 5 guest rooms and a coffee shop. 

The entrance to the Hibiscus House is on the north side. We were intrigued to see steps on the side facing Clifford Street. There were no doors at the top of the stairs, like in the old photos.
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4:00

We arrived around 4. Our host had texted a few helpful tips before we parked in a tidy parking lot behind the inn.

We found a walkway to the right that took us to the east side of the house.

There were 2 sets of stairs leading to second floor rooms.

Our door was tucked in beside the second set. I love second story rooms, but my lazy side on that day was happy to have only 3 steps.

Flamingo Room

Of course I booked the pink and turquoise room filled with flamingos! I love a colorful theme!

I counted over 20 flamingos in our room.

The comfy room had Old Florida charm, with its pine walls and ceiling, painted white. 

Our room felt fresh and clean, despite the fact it was over 100 years old.

I appreciated having a fridge and 2 soft chairs with a table.

... a dressing mirror and a bookcase. Even a handy door draft stopper, which could also be used for blocking light or sounds from the hall.

Snazzy Bathroom

I started to add another flamingo when I saw the stained glass in the bathroom. That's actually a heron, but it was a colorful & tropical addition! 

There was ample space for holding "stuff". And the deep bath with jets was another added treat for me.

Stepping Outside

It was nice having a door to the hall, plus another door to slip out of easily, for a walk, or a trip to the car.

There was a sitting space just steps from our room.

I explored and noticed that all the rooms had some kind of outside sitting area. That's always a plus.

This sitting space on the opposite side, was very close to a lovely hibiscus  plant. I was glad to find some on the property! 
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Interior

When we opened our other door, we found a hall with more painted pine and a staircase. We learned later, that the narrow carpet covers a slight lump, where the 2 house haves came back together after their river journey.

Right beside our door was a welcoming surprise. Words on a blue sign invited us to borrow towels or sunscreen products, if we were going off for a beach day. Even a "Boogie Board" was available. What a generous gesture from our hosts!

​Reunion Time

At 6:30 Don and I slipped off to meet my Uncle Dave and my cousin and her son. 

We drove just a few miles south on McGregor and suddenly found ourselves at a table with this sweet trio. Dinner at Christoph's.  This is what the whole roadtrip detour to Ft Myers was all about. It couldn't have worked out better.

Peaceful Night

Once we were back at the Hibiscus House, I regretted having only one night. 

Our little reunion had been far too short. And I could have happily enjoyed this pleasant peaceful house for a few more nights.

Hibiscus Latin Cafe

Early the next morning, I could smell coffee brewing. The little coffee shop in front, was open for business. 

What had once been a sunroom, had recently become a coffee shop with Cuban-inspired flavors.

The evening before I snapped a photo after it closed.

Don and I headed out of our room at 8:00 and there were a few locals placing orders.

Complimentary Breakfast

​Don and I found a table in the breakfast room next to the coffee shop.

We had the place to ourselves and felt pretty delighted to have quite a few options with our breakfast.

Chatting with Lisette

After we helped ourselves to coffee and juice and an assortment of breads, yogurts, meats and cheeses, we met our host, Lisette.

Lisette let us know that as guests we were welcome to place a complimentary order from the coffee shop as well. I so wish we hadn't already filled up. 

The smells of coffee and Cuban pastries and sandwiches were tempting. But we'd already satisfied breakfast craving. We chatted instead.

It was nice to get some of the inside scoop about our hotel from Lisette. She purchased the hotel with her husband and daughter in 2023. They've done an amazing job of restoring the property.

Less Than an Hour

We had less than an hour before we needed to hit the road. After hearing from Lisette about the Historic River District surrounding H House.  I had to give myself a quick tour.

I threw on my running shoes and crossed Clifford Street and headed down McGregor to catch a glimpse of the historic winter estates of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford!

On my way back to H House, I detoured a couple blocks to see the Caloosahatchee River!  So much to see within a couple miles of our inn. 

What's Notable?

This historic little house was absolutely perfect for our needs. Charming, clean, quiet and comfy along with great history and a convenient location.

I'm so glad we got to meet Lisette, who made us even more appreciative of this little gem, in such a great little city!  We need to come back and enjoy  a longer visit next time!
​

Planning beachside anything is always a win. But I was plain eager to just spend the night in Sarasota. I have fond memories of childhood summers spent in this fabulous Circus Town!

Circus Decor at Cirque Restaurant 

In 2025 I heard about the freshly renovated hotel, with the long name. I was drawn to the French word for circus! I love a good circus theme anytime, anywhere. But the idea that this hotel's decor was inspired by Sarasota's connection to Ringling Bros. Circus, made it all extra intriguing. The town became the winter home to the Ringlings and their circus, in the 1920s.

I read about the hotel's sophisticated circus-themed design. "Art Deco Meets the Big Top." They did it well! Nothing kitschy. No creepy clown figures or sawdust. Guests don't need to be big circus fans (like me) to enjoy the circus themed decor in the lobby, restaurant or guest rooms. 

Location

The hotel's location was a huge plus. It was just a short walk from the upscale shops and restaurants at St. Armands Circle. The St. Armands district was actually developed by circus magnate John Ringling, in the 1920s. 

Location to Lido Beach was even closer! 

​Holiday Inn Postcard

The 7-story hotel first opened as a Holiday Inn, in 1970. In this image you can see the pool beside the parking lot and an entrance facing the wide sandy beach. 

The exterior doesn't look over-the-top fancy, but I would have loved it if my family had been able to stay here when we visited in the '60s and '70s. Most of our memories involve worn out motels near Sarasota Bay.

Changes

When Don and I arrived at the hotel last April, the building looked pretty similar to the image on this postcard.  However, they no longer have a 7th floor restaurant. 

There is no drive-up area facing the beach. And there's certainly no iconic neon Holiday Inn sign.

Finding Cirque

In fact we never found a sign at all. (coming later maybe) But GPS guided us through a beautiful neighborhood, directly to a parking lot facing away from the gulf. 

We walked up the ramp through some pleasant landscaping. The building looked fresh and attractive. I could see the top floor restaurant had been turned into guest rooms.

Greeters!

There were no doormen or valets, but we saw some other greeters wearing formal bowties. 

This pair of green lions gave us a little hint that we might be stepping into a hotel filled with fun surprises.

I should have asked if these lions were given names.

Lobby

Once inside we were greeted by welcoming desk staff and fabulous decor.

Behind the classy looking counter, I spied lots of circus related accents. There were no funky circus collectables from flea markets. We've seen a lot of that when visiting a few overdone circus-themed hotels and restaurants. 

Fun at Check-In

I had fun reading this sign while we checked in. I learned that my Circus Name is "Binzo The Thrilling Baton Twirler!" Silliness! I love it!

The best thing about check-in was finding out that we'd been upgraded to an ocean view! After a little more chatting at check-in, I learned that what I'd written in the comment section, (while booking online) had gotten some attention. I'd totally forgotten that I'd written anything, but then recalled my little ramble. I'd mentioned that I was excited to be staying in Sarasota for the first time since childhood... and that I was delighted about the classy circus themed decor... Jillian at the desk added, "Oh yes, we really do read and appreciate these comments!" 

Circus Inspired
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I'd seen photos on the internet, but I was blown away by the bright and creative design! The ostrich feather chandelier reminded me of costumes in the Roaring Twenties. That was when John Ringling first fell in love with Sarasota and thought of making the town the winter headquarters for the circus.

Geometric patterns on the carpets and floor, felt lively and whimsical!

The fabrics were full of circus fun!  Pillows with animals... smooth velvet, reminding me of luxurious show curtains! The ceiling even felt a bit like a circus tent.

The cage-like chairs had me imagining lions!

Elevator

After a brief look around the lobby, we headed up in one of the 2 elevators.

If we'd gotten stuck in either elevator, I would have been thoroughly entertained with the vintage photo art!

Lights & Stripes!

The elevator doors opened and I stepped out grinning ! Showtime! Gotta love some bright lights! 

We followed the striped carpet and paused at the Hydration Station!

There was a water dispenser, a drawer holding bags of ice, plus a bowl of oranges on the counter. All in a nicely designed little nook, off the hall!

Stepping In

​I stepped into the room and paused again. The entryway offered a dramatic walkway towards the ocean-view balcony!

But before stepping into the room I had to admire the dressing space, holding robes and a padded bench, over a set of drawers. And more circus art of course!

Calm Colors

The view was enough to relax any traveler. But the soft gray and sandy brown tones in the room felt heavenly. The muted tones made the ocean blue color pop!

I appreciated all the handy "stuff" from the cushioned bench at the foot of the bed...

...to the coffee maker and refillable water containers. I of course loved the framed circus photos and the small sculpted performer. These classy tidbits kept my favorite theme alive, without overwhelming!

Comfy

The bed and linens were comfy and the built-in headboard was just the right amount of soft. 

Besides 2 cushioned desk chairs, there was super cozy corner chair, with light.

​The bathroom was lovely. Bright white towels and classy black & white tile designs.

And those vintage photographs kept right on entertaining.

12 Hours Apart

The balcony was the icing on the cake. The gulf-view rooms were a bit pricey, so we hadn't booked one. Yet suddenly we were looking across the road towards sand and sea.

The first photo was taken around 7:30 in the evening. The other was taken 12 hours later. Very quiet times in April!

The Midway

After checking out our room, Don and I headed back down and grabbed a window table at the Midway Lobby Bar.  

4:00 was a little early to start Happy Hour, but we were offered complimentary cocktails with our check-in.

Each champaign cocktail came with a playful surprise! An orange Popsicle!

Don gifted me his, so I had a double Popsicle beverage... which I don't recommend. After a bit of messy fumbling, my drink turned into a Mimosa. Which I guess is nothing to complain about.
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Games 

We hardly needed more entertainment, but if we got bored there were games. I spotted a wooden ring game, on top of the striped table.

A very serious looking chessboard was tempting guests to come sit and play for a couple hours. 

Planning Place

Across the room I spotted 2 chairs facing a desk and an enormous mural of elephants. I believe this was the concierge desk where we could sit and inquire about visiting the Ringling Museums or other Sarasota attractions.

But without the conceirge, I was happy to just sit a moment and study the nearby shelves, filled with bright and tidy circus knickknacks of course. Mostly I stared at the elephants. I've spent many an hour pondering the worries of circus animals in history. But on this day I only sat and admired the incredible beasts.

Post Happy Hour

It was just after 6:30 when Don and I returned to the Midway. The bar's Happy Hour had ended but there was a lively crowd lingering.

I ordered the "Levitate" cocktail which included some tropical flavors... rum, coconut, banana syrup... Tasty, but I did not levitate.

Don ordered a martini with his choice of olive stuffings. He went for the gherkin stuffed olives. Which maybe was an odd choice.

​It became apparent that most of the Happy Hour folks around us, were locals who knew each other. They all seemed to be enjoying gourmet popcorn in cute cups. I jumped up to investigate and found a retro popcorn cart had rolled into the lobby. I was pretty excited to get a couple complimentary cups for our table!

More Exploring

After a while we headed for a door past the bar, to check out the pool area. I paused to admire the mini carousel inspired jars, holding drink garnishes.

The Ringmaster Poolside Bar offered a shady outdoor area.

There were quite a few guests enjoying the deck chairs.

I returned early in the morning to take photos, without intruding on lounging guests.

I loved the playful yellow striped umbrellas. The cushioned lounge chairs actually looked comfortable. ​

The pool shape was changed during renovation. Instead of a dull rectangle, the design looks a little like 3 connected circles. Just like a 3-ring circus!

​I also found additional chaise lounges, down a few steps.

A nice space for guests who don't like beach sand or pool splashes.

Dramatic Dinner at Ringside

Long before our 7:30 dinner reservation, I stopped by to chat with Amanda, who was standing at the podium outside the restaurant.

I've never seen such velvety drama at the entrance to a dining room!

Amanda was delightful. She was as enthused about the hotel's themed decor as I was. She let me have a peek behind the curtains before the Ringside Restaurant opened.

Amanda encouraged me to take a look at the table options. It was hard to pass up a cozy table nook with curtains. But I asked to book a table near a window instead.

View

The view would have been a little better if we'd been up a few floors. But around 8:00, I could spot the sun setting, just behind Don.

We took our time studying the menu. 

Before discovering the tasty options inside, I had to admire the menu design itself. Classy and magical on the cover...

Inspiring words on the inside! "A place that forbids you to take anything seriously."

Don and I enjoyed the view along with a shared Caesar salad. Our trapeze artist friend seemed to be joining us from above.

Design
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The decor that surrounded us made the meal extra memorable. Such an intriguing mix of vintage circus decor and luxurious furnishings.

As I absorbed flavors, I absorbed the fine decor. Circus murals and velvet and zebra fabric, stripes above and geometric shapes below!

It seems fitting that we should dine in style, since the Ringling Brothers made sure their circus staff ate on china and tablecloths in the dining tents!

Onion Skillet Bread

This appetizer was as over-the-top-fun as the decor was over-the-top snazzy!

Much more appetizing than my photo. The flavors were pretty amazing! Don's pan-seared diver scallops were mouthwatering. 

The festive dining room was quiet and empty by the time we finished.

We left happy!

Nighttime Peek
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​I took a quick step outside to peek at the pool before heading up to our luxurious room.

The air felt perfect. I could have slept on one of those lounge chairs.

Morning

In the morning I let myself explore just a little more. 

I should have grabbed some coffee to enjoy the chairs and games on the west side of the building. A pedestrian walkway has replaced the old drive up entrance, so it's pleasant and quiet.
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Just a few steps across the street and I was on the beach. So calm!

If we'd had one more day, we would have had time to take advantage of the hotel's sister property. Just steps away, Gulf at Lido Beach Resort had lots more beach and dining options to enjoy. But it was time to head back across that white sand and pack up.

​What's Notable?

I had my cake and ate it too, at The Cirque! I love a whimsical theme, but usually I have to give up luxury for that. Most themed hotels are weird or worn or uncomfortable. I'm almost always happy to give up luxury to enjoy a unique stay, but didn't have to here.

I loved the decor!  Luxurious, tasteful decorating with playful circus woven in. Even though colors and murals and designs were bold, it was never overwhelming. The gracious staff, top notch food, the beach location and the clever decor... all in perfect balance! Like the best circus act!

Next time we will book more than one night!