| Having just suffered through Spring Break traffic on South Beach--thanks to bathing suit-clad jaywalkers, it took me 45 minutes to go six blocks on Collins Avenue--I can't say I'll be disappointed when the college crowds depart. In fact, I just might celebrate by taking up the Park Central Hotel and The Hotel on their Cultural/Preservation Visitors' Packages.
Beginning May 1 (the start of National Preservation Month) and continuing throughout December 18, 2008, the packages offer complimentary room upgrades; free self-parking in a nearby covered garage; a guided tour of the Art Deco Historic District via the Miami Design Preservation League (see my Miami Architecture video for a sample!); a vintage Art Deco poster or photograph; a book on the subject of Art Deco architecture; and passes to the Wolfsonian and Bass museums, which are both located close by in restored period buildings.
Located at the beach at 640 Ocean Drive, The Park Central is the “Grande Dame” of the Art Deco District. Beautifully renovated, this 125-room historic hotel was a favorite haunt of film legends including Clark Gable and Carol Lombard. Rooms are bright and airy, many with spectacular ocean views, and feature sound-proof windows and sumptuous pillow-top beds. The Park Central also features a lobby restaurant and bar, an intimate pool and patio, a gym and a private rooftop lounge, where complimentary films are showcased every Thursday and Sunday and gourmet popcorn is served.
A boutique property with 52 rooms and suites at 801Collins Avenue, winner of the prestigious AAA Four Diamond rating for the last six years, The Hotel is located in the hub of Miami Beach’s nightlife and fashion district just steps from the beach. Sporting décor by fashion designer Todd Oldham, the award-winning restaurant, Wish, offers excellent service and the sexiest pool in town, affording ocean views. It also features a fully stocked gym, and The Spire Bar & Lounge, the chic new rooftop bar, the perfect perch to watch the sunset.
Prices are $649 for 2 nights at the Park Central Hotel, and $765 for 2 nights at The Hotel, with a minimum of a 2-night stay required and discounts for additional nights. For more details or reservations call 1-800-727-5236 for the Park Central; 1-877-843-4683 for The Hotel, or visit www.thehotelofsouthbeach.com and www.theparkcentral.com.
There’s nothing like vacationing in one’s own hometown—especially once the bikinis blocking the view have gone home, the price is right, and Art Deco culture comes with the deal. |
