Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at These Retro-Inspired Hotels

Take a Trip Down Memory Lane at These Retro-Inspired Hotels

It's undeniably true that we are drawn to the past — the smell of something old, the taste of what was, and the overall sensation of escaping to "better times." This yearning for a taste of something new with a hint of the past couldn't be more fitting for the time we're living in today, and through the hotels listed below, an experience in and of itself awaits — offering guests a trip down memory lane through stylish, mid-century modern design. Travelers can hop on the road trip bandwagon and string together an itinerary that was made for the days of a jam-packed station wagon or straight gun it for one and slip into a more glamorous time filled with whimsical lines, pops of color, and experiences that are sure to jolt you back to a different era.

Town and Country | San Diego, CA 

A landmark resort in San Diego for more than 60 years, Town and Country is a nod to the past, with pops of color and mid-century modern design illuminating a budding hotel trend exchanging modern sharp lines for a whimsical and cheery influence and decor. In 2020, the property completed an impressive, multi-million dollar renovation taking inspiration rooted in its mid-century roots. The colorful, reimagined interior design blends nods to the era with a casual California aesthetic that draws guests and locals to make connections with one another, the destination, and the nostalgia of the past. Hand-selected art pieces and murals from local artists are found throughout the property, bringing diverse and dramatic textures, stories and points of view to life. Design standouts include a sun-drenched pool deck with a zero-entry pool dappled with bright yellow umbrellas and blue lounges, a “Twister” waterslide, walls lined with momentos of the city’s history and culture, eclectic lobby furniture, a neon diver dubbed Thelma, and more. Better yet, guests will find retro record players in their suites and for special events, can expect to find a visit from Trixie — the property’s vintage trailer bar.

The Garland | North Hollywood, CA

The Garland is a one-of-a-kind urban retreat with true Hollywood roots, named after the late, critically-acclaimed American actress, Beverly Garland, whose husband built the property in 1972. The hotel offers a retro-chic vibe reminiscent of the Mad Men era and old-school Hollywood glamour. When guests set foot in the property, they are surrounded by 1970s touches in everything from the decor featuring chic 70s design and decor to special programming offered. Guests will also enjoy the hotel’s signature restaurant, The Front Yard, complementing the retro-chic bohemian vibe with an approachable menu that celebrates the best of Los Angeles’ food scene.

Hotel Valley Ho | Scottsdale, AZ

Nestled in the historic Old Town Scottsdale, Hotel Valley Ho is hip, vibrant and bold. Originally a hideaway for celebrities, this Downtown Scottsdale resort exudes marvelous architecture and modern flair, and is celebrating its 65th anniversary this year. What’s more, Hotel Valley Ho will be launching a "That's So Vintage" Box for group to enjoy, which is delightfully retro and comes with a vintage-style root beer, Pop Rocks, Mary Janes, a Goo Goo Cluster, Old Town Scottsdale pin and cowboy sticker, vintage-style Scottsdale keychain, and a house-made moon pie fresh from our ZuZu pastry shop.

The Setai, Miami Beach | Miami, FL

Situated ocean-side in the heart of Miami’s most desirable location in South Beach, The Setai, Miami Beach is an award- winning, international leader in hospitality and the hotel of choice for the sophisticated international traveler. The Setai masterfully combines the warmth of Asian hospitality with the best in personalized service, the latest in-room technologies and truly rarified comfort. Housed in a restored 1936 landmark building within the historical Art Deco District, The Setai has been artfully designed, weaving the aesthetics of the Far East into its retro, Art Deco facade. Among other luxury accommodations and F&B outlets, The Setai features 87 Art Deco rooms, each inspired by the history and culture of the art deco district.

JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa | Scottsdale, AZ

Generations of travelers from all over the world continue to find peace and tranquility at JW Marriott Scottsdale Camelback Inn Resort & Spa, an award-winning resort that embodies the authentic spirit of the Southwest with its rich history, desert-inspired design, adobe-style architecture and nostalgic charm. Originally opened on Dec. 15, 1936 on 125 acres of Sonoran Desert terrain in affluent Paradise Valley, Camelback Inn’s goal is to preserve the resort’s nostalgic character and retain the ambiance of a peaceful setting while staying true to the authenticity of the Southwest. The original adobe-style bricks made on-site in 1936 are still present in the lobby and at Rita’s Cantina, while the lobby’s long-standing fireplace and wood rail balcony are constant reminders of the resort’s time-honored hospitality. Over the years, Camelback Inn has been a sought-after destination for former presidents, heads of state and Hollywood luminaries, and the property continues to celebrate its 85th anniversary and perennial motto, “Where Time Stands Still,” with a lavish $85,000 package.

The Vinoy® St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club | St. Petersburg, FL

Originally opened on New Year’s Eve in 1925 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Vinoy® St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club is the only historic luxury resort on Florida’s west coast that boasts 13.5 acres of idyllic waterfront property, a private 72-slip marina, 18-hole golf course on the exclusive Snell Isle, tennis complex and fitness center. The iconic pink hotel blends modern elegance with Mediterranean Revival architecture in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, with over 40,000 square feet of spectacular indoor/outdoor event space, innovative restaurants and a day spa.