WinterHaven Hotel

To experience the perfect fusion of bygone glamour and modern convenience, check into the Winter Haven where comfort is key. Romantic and retro, the hotel is a meticulously restored landmark Art Deco property overlooking Ocean Drive and the golden Atlantic Coast. Crafted in 1939 by architect Albert Anis on a quiet upper corner of the most popular South Beach strip, the 71 updated guest rooms are merely steps away from the best restaurants and bars in the city.

Art Deco streamline styling was considered ultra-modern in the 1930s and stands as a testament to bold American design in the present day. Entering the double-height hotel lobby with it’s classic staircase, glass ball railings and terrazzo floors feels like you are boarding a grand cruise ship. The seaside terrace gives way to the breathtaking lobby lounge with its black marble counter top and gleaming stainless rails – the ideal spot for a perfectly neat martini. Guest rooms are simply appointed with electronic safes, flat screen TVs, a fully stocked mini bar and in-room coffee service.

Standing at the edge of Lummus Park and the sands of South Beach, the Winter Haven staff can pack you off for a day at the beach or a quiet repose on the glorious rooftop sun deck. Room rates include a complimentary hot breakfast served on the seaside terrace so each day starts with a front row seat to the exciting Ocean Drive scene. If the priorities for your Florida vacation are easy access to local attractions, fine dining and nightlife, the classic hotels in the Deco District offer simple, affordable luxury.When it originally opened its doors in 1939, the Winter Haven Hotel was advertised as “ultra modern” with a “spacious lobby and mezzanine,” “large outside rooms,” “a sky top solarium,” “large veranda overlooking the ocean,” and a whopping “$1 per night” rates.

The hotel’s recent renovation has restored the impressive structure to its original glory – everything, that is, except those $1-a-night rates! The Albert Anis-designed, two-story lobby features a winding staircase, highly wrought Chinese mirrors, classic terrazzo floors and exact replicas of the hotel’s original chandeliers, sconces and maple-and-mirror check-in desk.

There have been a few much-needed updates though: The lobby’s upholstery has gone from loud floral patterns to a more subtle, monochromatic look of rattan and leather and a new wood-and-glass martini bar hugs one wall near the front of the room.

The guestrooms are as impressive as the lobby with most of the 70 rooms featuring ocean views and custom-designed Art Deco furniture in soothing hues of cream, ginger and green. The walls are adorned with charming black and white photos of Miami Beach Deco hotels in their heyday.

Although there is no spa on the premises, in-room massages and other grooming services can be scheduled with 90 minutes advanced notice. While you’re at the Winter Haven, you absolutely must take your breakfast and coffee (complimentary for registered guests) up to the rooftop sundeck and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of South Beach in all its majesty. If you are looking for a piece of the “old Miami Beach” this is your one-stop destination for nostalgia.