Once Abandoned And Left To Decay, The Divine Lorraine Hotel In Pennsylvania Has Been Restored To Its Former Glory
The Divine Lorraine Hotel in Pennsylvania, once a luxury apartment and later an inclusive hotel, has been restored and now operates as the Mint House at the Divine Lorraine Hotel.
We’ve all likely driven past abandoned buildings and perhaps have wondered about their past, such as the Lorraine Hotel in Pennsylvania. Who lived there? Was it a business? Why was it left forgotten? Not all abandoned buildings in Pennsylvania have merely been forgotten over time, some have been restored to their former glory. This restored hotel in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for example, has again leaped to life.
Tucked on the corner of Broad Street and Fairmount Avenue, the Lorraine Hotel in Pennsylvania has quite the tale to tell, and it all begins in the late 1890s when it was built as a luxury apartment.
Many of Philadelphia’s wealthiest residents lived in the apartment building, which at the time was widely considered one of the most luxurious in the city.
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That, however, was just the beginning of the divine Lorraine's long and storied history.
In 1948, ownership changed hands when Father Divine, the founder of the International Peace Missions Movement, purchased the building. Originally from Rockville, Maryland, Father Divine was originally known as George Baker.
With the purchase of the building came a name change to the Divine Lorraine Hotel.
Unlike many other apartments and hotels, the Divine Lorraine welcomed everyone regardless of race or religion. At the time Father Divine owned the building, it had both permanent residents and guests.
Father Divine passed away in 1965, and for the next half a century, the Divine Lorraine would continue the mission of the International Peace Missions Movement before the hotel was permanently shuttered in 1999.
The rooms have up to three times the space of a standard hotel, complete with full kitchens, and large living areas, obviously no longer one of the abandoned places in Pennsylvania.
Have you been to the Divine Lorraine Hotel in Pennsylvania? What did you think of the beautifully renovated space? Did you enjoy the penthouse dining at its on-site restaurant, Cicala? Let us know in the comments below!
The Historic Guild House in Philadelphia is One of the Best Places I’ve Ever Stayed
Explore the Guild House Hotel in Philadelphia, a luxurious boutique hotel with a rich history tied to women's rights and social progress. Enjoy modern comforts and a prime location.
Fun fact: there are over 166,000 hotels in the United States. That's a lot of options.
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As travel experts at Only In Your State, we know better than anyone how a good hotel can make -- or break -- a trip.
When I was a kid -- 10 or 11, I think -- my family packed up the 1987 Volvo station wagon and drove from Cincinnati, Ohio, to Bar Harbor, Maine, stopping at several notable points of interest along the way.
We also stayed at several notable hotels along the way, including a sketchy roadside stop my brothers and I nicknamed the Bates Motel. This roadside inn (I think it might have even been called "Roadside Inn") was every bit as creepy as its namesake; suspicious dark stains, flickering lights, a damp chill to the air, and a toilet that randomly flushed made for an interesting night's sleep, and while that trip included visits to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown and the "big boot" in Freeport, what I remember most is our night at the Bates Motel.
Today's feature destination is *not* the Bates Motel... not even close.
Today, we're taking a look at the Guild House Hotel, a luxurious and historic boutique hotel in the heart of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Jenna Gibson, Vice President of Creative for Only In Your State's parent company World of Good, recently stayed at Guild House Hotel and had rave reviews about her experience. In fact, Gibson says the Guild House Hotel is one of the best places she's ever stayed in Philadelphia.
The City of Brotherly Love is a must-visit destination for anyone into history. While this Pennsylvania town is often pitted against places like Washington D.C., Baltimore, and Boston, Philadelphia is a treasure trove of attractions that, when combined with the city's historic clout and charming walkability, make for an unforgettable experience. Especially when this experience includes a stay at the Guild House Hotel.
Photo by Jason Varney
The Guild House Hotel is an impeccably restored 1855 row home — a National Historic Landmark — in the heart of historic Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. A beacon of progressive politics and unabashed feminism, the home's history is inextricably tied to American history, from women’s suffrage to labor reform.
In 1876, nearly 10 million people attend The Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia. Eliza Sproat Turner used the exhibition as a platform to launch "The New Century for Women," a progressive newspaper that raised awareness on women's rights and published reports on the labor conditions in local mills, stores, and factories. Turner later organized the The New Century Club, a women-run operation that provided support and opportunities for Philadelphia women.
Philadelphia building around Philadelphia city hall, USA
By the time Turner died in 1903, her group had become a vital part of Philadelphia driven by some of the city’s most impressive women. The small fortune Eliza bequeathed the Guild upon her death helped the members achieve their next goal: the 1906 purchase of an 1850s Italianate row home in the heart of downtown Philly: 1307 Locust Street — the very building that now houses the Guild House Hotel.
The hotel's location was a big draw for Gibson, as was its history. "I loved the central location in the center city area - shops, good food, good coffee... safe and walkable to different areas of city," she even "casually walked by the Liberty Bell on my way home from dinner!"
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The Liberty Bell is an American icon and crown jewel of Philadelphia. Representing American freedom, independence, and history, the Liberty Bell's inscription conveys a message of liberty that's integral to our collective freedom. The Guild House Hotel certainly fits in with this legacy of social progress, community, and equality, partnering with minority-owned businesses, hosting themed “fireside chats” featuring celebrity speakers, and assigning each guest room a different theme inspired by Philadelphia's most celebrated female figures.
Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia
Speaking of guest rooms, inside the Guild House Hotel you’ll find 12 suite situated inside a graceful, welcoming boutique hotel in which modern comforts mesh seamlessly with historic character. If you're concerned about sacrificing luxury for history, don't be; the hotel prides itself on extraordinary, five-star service.
Photo by Jason Varney
During a Guild House stay, the space belongs to the guests, with staff on call 24 hours a day, ready to serve in the form of nightly turn down services, customized trip itineraries, onsite parking access (available first-come, first-serve), and even airport pickup upon request. Best of all, says Gibson, is the Guild House's privacy. Despite its central location and convenience, "the hotel is mirrored off Airbnb/self service - so it feels very private," she says.
Photo by Jason Varney
The next time you find yourself in The City of Brotherly Love, do yourself a favor and book a stay at the historic Guild House Hotel.
Planning your next getaway to The Keystone State? Let us help you narrow it down and find the perfect one. From unique hotels to luxurious resorts, we have the best hotels in Pennsylvania on the list.
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Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Pennsylvania
If you want to try something new for a more memorable trip, why not stay at a unique hotel? It's more fun than staying at your average hotel and will make for an unforgettable experience. We've done the hard work for you and picked the best ones. Check it out!
Address: 1620 Sand Beach Rd, Hummelstown, PA 17036
Price: $238+/night
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 9.2 / 10 stars
The Inn at Westwynd Farm in Hummelstown is a bed and breakfast on a picturesque equestrian farm near Hershey Gardens and Hersheypark. Guests can enjoy the polished rooms with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. Some rooms even have extras like whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and balconies. In the morning, breakfast is served on a gorgeous patio or in a dining room with garden views. There's also a library with complimentary wine and games for visitors. Horseback riding is available for those who are interested.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and kid-friendly.
Ratings: 9.4 / 10 stars
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Traveler's Rest Hotel in Pittsburgh is a quaint, casual hotel set in an 1883 building near a popular biking trail and within easy walking distance of Point State Park. The hotel features comfortable rooms with free wifi and basic amenities. The common areas provide a spacious lounge and kitchenette.
Best Hotel Pools in Pennsylvania
Are you taking a trip to Pennsylvania and want to stay in a hotel that has a pool? We have a couple of highly-rated hotels with outdoor pools on this list. Follow along and find out more.
If you're looking for a comfortable place to stay while visiting the attractions in Harrisburg, Hampton Inn Harrisburg West in Mechanicsburg is an excellent option. The rooms are warm and inviting, with mini-fridges and coffeemakers. The complimentary hot breakfast is a perfect budget-friendly option if you're traveling with a group. The hotel also has an outdoor pool with loungers, a fitness center, and free parking.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 8.8 / 10 stars
Eden Resort & Suites in Lancaster has a convenient location, exceptional amenities, and modern accommodations. All the rooms at the resort are provided with mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. The property has your choice of multiple restaurants, pools, a hot tub, a basketball court, and a putting green. It's a fantastic option if you're traveling with the family.
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Best Luxury Hotels in Pennsylvania
Relax and recharge at one of these luxury hotels, where you'll enjoy impeccable service and deluxe amenities. With options like spa treatments, luxurious bedding, and gourmet meals, you'll be sure to get your fill of relaxation and rejuvenation.
Address: 210 W Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia, PA 19103
Price: $384+/night
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and indoor pool.
Ratings: 9.6 / 10 stars
The Rittenhouse Hotel in Philadelphia is a prestigious 5-star hotel close to one of Philadelphia's most popular attractions - Rittenhouse Square Park. The luxe rooms and suites include flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms with tubs. Guests can indulge in amenities such as multiple dining options, an indoor pool, a steam room, and a sauna. There's also a complimentary car service, allowing guests to explore the area within a 20-block radius.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and an outdoor pool.
Ratings: 9 / 10 stars
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The Inn at Leola Village offers beautiful gardens and peaceful settings on a former Amish farm and is only a short drive from Lancaster's city center. The accommodations at the inn range from poolside suites to charming cottages, all featuring luxurious linens and rainfall showers. Amenities include an outdoor pool, an onsite spa, and two dining options. With plenty to do on the grounds of Leola Village, you'll find it hard to leave.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, laundry service, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 9.4 / 10 stars
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Historic Hotel Bethlehem is located in the historic district of downtown Bethlehem and is a short distance from Moravian College and Lehigh University. The iconic hotel has refined guest rooms and suites with superb amenities, such as an upscale restaurant, causal taproom, and 24-hour room service. Experience world-class service and stay at this historic hotel next time you're in Bethlehem.
Best Boutique Hotels in Pennsylvania
Do you like to stay at a place surrounded by all the action? Then why not stay at a boutique hotel for your next vacation? Pennsylvania boutique hotels are trendy and stylish and provide all the standard amenities you need for a comfortable stay. They are typically in fantastic locations, making them the perfect choice for those who want to stay close to all the attractions.
8. The Wilbur Lititz, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Lititz
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and business center.
Ratings: 4.5 / 5 stars
The Wilbur Lititz, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is set in an old converted chocolate factory in historic Lititz and close to many restaurants and attractions like the Wilbur Chocolate Museum. The hotel features a sizeable meeting space, a convenience store, and a fitness center. All rooms are air-conditioned featuring a mini-fridge, a Keurig coffee machine, and a flat-screen TV.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and kid-friendly.
Ratings: 9.8 / 10 stars
The Dwight D Hotel is a boutique hotel in the heart of City Center in Philadelphia. It is within walking distance of restaurants, Rittenhouse Square, and the Kimmel Center. The gorgeous, separately designed rooms feature free wifi and private or en suite bathrooms. There's also a restaurant, a cafe, a garden, and a lounge for you to enjoy.
Best Resorts in Pennsylvania
If you're looking for a breathtaking view and top-notch accommodations, these Pennsylvania resorts are the perfect places for your next weekend away.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, and pool.
Ratings: 9.8 / 10 stars
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The Lodge at Woodloch is an idyllic spa resort in the Pocono Mountains. It has a large, lush forest setting and a breathtaking lake view. The resort is just 23 minutes from Interstate 84, making it easy to get to. Elegant rooms feature marble bathrooms and private verandas. All-inclusive packages include all meals, access to health and fitness amenities, and outdoor activities like kayaking.
Amenities: Indoor and outdoor pool, air conditioning, and laundry service.
Ratings: 9.2 / 10 stars
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Check in to the Omni Bedford Springs Resort, an upscale mineral springs resort on 2,200 acres. It's a short drive from Old Bedford Village, an archaeological site, and 19 miles from Buchanan State Forest. Plush rooms come with free wifi and flat-screen TVs.The property has multiple dining options, a spring-fed indoor pool, and concierge services. Access to a spa and a golf course is available for a fee.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and an outdoor pool.
Ratings: 9.1 / 10 stars
Nemacolin in Farmington is a golf resort on 2,000 wooded acres in the Laurel Highlands, 3 miles from Fort Necessity National Battlefield. Accommodations are set in hotels, townhouses, and upscale private homes. There are a variety of activities and amenities available at the resort, including two championship golf courses, a casino, a salon, shops, spas, and dining options. With so many choices, everyone should be able to find something they enjoy!
Have you been to any of these beautiful vacation destinations? Do you think they are some of the best hotels in Pennsylvania to spend your holiday? Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you!
