Fiji and Hawaii are more likely to come to mind when thinking about island resorts than Connecticut. But believe it or not, there is a little island off the coast that was once a hot spot for tourists. Let's take a quick trip into the past and find out more about this Connecticut resort island that used to bustle with visitors.
Ram Island is a 20-acre island located just one mile off of the Connecticut coast. Once called Mystic Island, it was home to a hotel resort during the Victorian Era.
However in February 2013 and March 2014, tragedy struck again and fires engulfed both the barn and the island home, respectively and left the island vacant.
Here at Only In Connecticut, we love a good comeback story. There's nothing like seeing an old dilapidated building turn into something new, and it's nice to know that all historic buildings don't end up demolished piles of rubble. The spot we're featuring today is pretty unique for a number of reasons, and it just might be the most unusual hotel in Connecticut. First off, its architecture is pretty unique, and also very divisive, with many people declaring it to be the ugliest building they've ever seen. Secondly, it has an interesting history: it was actually once an office building, and later owned by IKEA. Third, it's so eco-friendly that it's the country's first net-zero hotel, meaning it removes as many greenhouse gases as it releases. Next time you're taking a trip to New Haven and want to stay somewhere a little off the wall, check out Hotel Marcel New Haven, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton - the only net-zero hotel in Connecticut.
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One of the first things you'll notice about Hotel Marcel is the unusual architectural style. It's a great example of Brutalist architecture, a design technique with minimal construction, lots of angular geometric shapes, and unpainted concrete.
When the building first opened, it served as the Armstrong Rubber Company, though it was later the headquarters of Pirelli Tire. It was later purchased by IKEA, but remained vacant for over a decade. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The conversion from office building to hotel was a years-long process that involved removing asbestos, making the building more energy-efficient, and opening up some of the top floor to let in more natural light.
The on-site restaurant, BLDG, features dishes made with ingredients sourced from a 250-mile radius. You'll find Latin, Italian, and American steakhouses dishes here, with a menu that changes seasonally.
For more information about Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection By Hilton, check out the Hotel Marcel website to learn all about this net zero hotel in Connecticut. You can book a stay at Booking.com. While you're in New Haven, make sure to get a slice at Frank Pepe, the most famous pizzeria in Connecticut.
Are you looking for a getaway somewhere in the Constitution State? Spending a night, a weekend, or longer in a hotel or resort may be just what you need. Here are some of the best hotels in Connecticut that are highly rated, unique, and offer amenities that will make your stay a memorable one.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Connecticut
There are all sorts of hotel options around the state, so why not stay somewhere that's a bit of an out-of-the-box choice? Here are some of the best unique hotels to stay in Connecticut:
Amenities: Free breakfast, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, bar, library, full-service spa
Ratings: 9.2/10 stars
The Dalamar Hotel in Greenwich has a marina with a private dock, water views galore, and even gives guests a glass of champagne upon check-in. Enjoy a luxurious stay and book yourself some time at the spa for some pampering! Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Address: 15 Under Mountain Rd, Salisbury, CT, 06068
Price: $319/night
Amenities: On-site restaurant, bar, room service, swimming pool
Ratings: 9.6/10 stars
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The White Hart is unique in that it offers ski-in and ski-out access. It's also on the smaller side with only 14 rooms. The inn was originally a farmhouse that was built in 1806 so you'll be surrounded by history here. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Address: 426 Main Ave, Route 7, Norwalk, CT, 06851
Price: $143/night
Amenities:
Ratings: 8.4/10 stars
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This unique hotel is perfect for those who want to stay fit while on vacation with a fitness center as well as fitness equipment in each room. EVEN also has fire pits outside on the patio for those who want to relax in the evenings. You can even go for a stroll to the historic district of South Norwalk where you'll find boutiques and restaurants. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Best Hotel Pools in Connecticut
There's something so enjoyable about spending time at a hotel with a pool. Whether you swim or prefer to lounge poolside, here are a couple of the best hotel pools in Connecticut:
Address: 1 Mohegan Sun Boulevard, Montville, CT, 06382
Price: $242/night
Amenities: Casino, 19 restaurants, 15 bars, 7 coffee shops, indoor pool, poolside bar, full-service spa
Ratings: 9/10 stars
There aren't too many casinos in New England but Mohegan Sun is one of them. With over 1,500 guest rooms, a spa, a casino, numerous restaurants, bars, entertainment, and more, you won't need to leave the property. Best of all, you can take a dip in or lounge by one of the Sky Tower Pools with an option to rent a VIP cabana. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Amenities: Indoor pool, gym, restaurants, bar, room service
Ratings: 8.6/10 stars
Located approximately five minutes from Mystic Seaport, the Mystic Marriott Hotel and Spa is a great place to land for a few nights. With on-site amenities like a spa and a gorgeous pool, you'll feel so relaxed by the time you have to check out. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Best Luxury Hotels in Connecticut
When you want to treat yourself, one of the best ideas is to book some time at a luxury hotel. These hotels center around your comfort so you'll be able to truly get away from it all.
6. Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection, Washington
Amenities: Spa, pool, in-room fireplaces, hiking, biking
Ratings:9.2/10 stars
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Considered one of the best hotels in Connecticut, the Mayflower Inn & Spa is set on a sprawling 58 acres in Litchfield Hills. This is a five-star hotel that will help make you feel like royalty by the time you leave. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
The inn is located close to Mohegan Sun but is a luxurious world of its own. With its incredible spa amenities, you may never want to leave. It's one of the best Connecticut hotels you can spend the night.
This boutique hotel only has 45 rooms but offers much of what a larger hotel can offer including an on-site restaurant and concierge services. The Whalers Inn is located close to Mystic Seaport as well as areas for kayaking, ziplining, hiking, and biking. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Amenities: Fitness center, lounge, yoga studio, laundry service, pet-friendly
Ratings: 9/10 stars
The Goodwin Hotel is a boutique hotel with 124 rooms. Open since 1881 in downtown Hartford, it's been a landmark destination for visitors around New England, New York, and beyond. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Amenities: Pool, gym, 2 bars, room service, mini golf, fitness classes
Ratings: 9.4/19 stars
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Situated right along the banks of the Connecticut River, Saybrook Point Inn offers 80 luxurious rooms plus villas, some of which have river views. Spend some time at the spa, go for a swim in one of the pools, and just relax which is what this hotel is meant for. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Best Beach Resorts in Connecticut
Life is better at the beach so maybe some time along the coast is in order. Here are the best beach resorts in Connecticut for your next getaway:
Address: 1525 Boston Post Road, Westbrook, CT, 06498
Price: $187/night
Amenities: Private beach, cabanas, spa, indoor pool, fine dining
Ratings: 8.6/10 stars
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Sit in the lap of luxury at the Water's Edge Resort in Westbrook. You'll want to spend as much time on the private beach with cabanas and lounge chairs, and feel free to order a drink while you're here. Or make an appointment for a massage or facial at the spa before heading to your reservation at one of the resort's restaurants. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
12. Madison Beach Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, Madison
If you enjoy the beach and golfing, the Madison Beach Hotel is next to both. Take in the views of the Long Island Sound, enjoy a restful night's sleep in a comfortable bed with premium linens, and take advantage of all the amenities this hotel has to offer. Book your stay on Hotels.com.
Have you spent a night in any of these best hotels in Connecticut? If so, which one(s)? For more affordable options, check out this list of the most affordable hotels in Connecticut. If you prefer vacation rentals, check out some of Connecticut's best places to stay.
