The Don Cesar Hotel is one of the most iconic landmarks in Florida, USA.
It has been featured in several movies and TV shows and is known for its luxurious amenities and stunning architecture.
One of the questions that often comes up is who owns the Don Cesar Hotel?
In this article, we will explore the history of the hotel, its ownership, and everything else you need to know.
History of Don Cesar Hotel
The Don Cesar Hotel is a historic and iconic hotel located in St. Pete Beach, Florida. The hotel has a rich history, which includes its construction, decline, and restoration.
Construction and Early Days
The Don Cesar Hotel was built in 1928 by Thomas Rowe, who was inspired by the architecture of Mediterranean and Moorish buildings. The hotel was designed to be a luxury hotel and attracted wealthy guests from across the country. During the early days, the hotel was known as the “Pink Palace” due to its pink exterior.
World War II and Decline
During World War II, the Don Cesar Hotel was used as a military hospital, which caused significant damage to the hotel. After the war, the hotel struggled financially and changed ownership multiple times. In 1969, the hotel was even scheduled to be demolished, but it was saved by a group of local residents who fought to preserve its historic value.
Restoration and Modernization
In 1973, the Don Cesar Hotel was restored and reopened as a luxury hotel. Since then, it has undergone multiple renovations to modernize the hotel while still preserving its historic charm. Today, the Don Cesar Hotel is owned by Host Hotels & Resorts, a leading lodging real estate investment trust (REIT) that owns other popular hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt.
Ownership of Don Cesar Hotel
Don Cesar Hotel, also known as the Pink Palace, is a famous hotel located in St. Pete Beach, Florida. It is an iconic landmark that has been attracting visitors from all over the world since its establishment. Let’s take a closer look at the ownership history of this magnificent hotel.
Thomas Rowe – The Founder
Don Cesar Hotel was founded by Thomas Rowe in 1928. Rowe was a dreamer and an entrepreneur who had a vision of building a magnificent hotel that would be a symbol of luxury and elegance. He invested his own money and borrowed from friends and family to build the hotel, and his hard work and dedication paid off when the hotel opened its doors in 1928.
Ownership after Thomas Rowe
After Rowe’s death in 1940, the hotel changed ownership several times. In 1941, the U.S. Army took over the hotel and used it as a convalescent center during World War II. After the war, it was sold to a group of investors who struggled to maintain the hotel’s glory days.
In 1969, the hotel was purchased by the Prudential Insurance Company, which invested millions of dollars in the hotel’s renovation and modernization. The hotel became a popular destination again, attracting high-profile guests such as President George H.W. Bush and Princess Diana.
Current Ownership
Today, Don Cesar Hotel is owned by Host Hotels & Resorts, a leading lodging real estate investment trust (REIT) based in Bethesda, Maryland. Host Hotels & Resorts owns more than 80 upscale and luxury hotel properties around the world, including popular hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt.
It is worth mentioning that Don Cesar Hotel has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975, which recognizes its architectural and historical significance. The hotel has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, but it has managed to maintain its original charm and elegance.
Interesting Facts about Don Cesar Hotel
- Haunted History: The Don Cesar Hotel, also known as the “Pink Palace,” is rumored to be haunted by a number of ghosts. One of the most famous ghosts is that of a young woman who reportedly jumped to her death from the hotel’s tower. Guests have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering the halls of the hotel.
- Famous Guests: The Don Cesar Hotel has played host to a number of famous guests over the years, including F. Scott Fitzgerald, Al Capone, and Franklin D. Roosevelt. In fact, Fitzgerald is said to have written portions of his novel “Tender Is the Night” while staying at the hotel.
- Movie and TV Appearances: The Don Cesar Hotel has been featured in a number of movies and TV shows over the years. It was used as a filming location for the 1988 movie “The In Crowd” and was also featured in an episode of the TV show “Mad Men.”
It is worth mentioning that the Don Cesar Hotel has been a fixture on the St. Pete Beach skyline since it was built in 1928. The hotel was originally built by Thomas Rowe, who named it after the hero of his favorite opera, “Maritana.” Unfortunately, Rowe died just a few years after the hotel opened, but it has continued to thrive under a number of different owners over the years.
On the other hand, the Don Cesar Hotel has also had its fair share of setbacks over the years. It was forced to close during World War II when the U.S. government took over the property and used it as a military hospital. In the 1960s, the hotel fell into disrepair and was almost demolished, but it was saved by a group of local residents who recognized its historical and architectural significance.
| Statistic | Comparison |
|---|---|
| The Don Cesar Hotel has 277 rooms and suites. | The hotel is smaller than other popular hotel chains like Marriott and Hilton. |
| The Don Cesar Hotel has a private beach and two outdoor pools. | Other hotels in the area may have more extensive amenities. |
| The Don Cesar Hotel has a spa and fitness center. | These amenities are comparable to other luxury hotels in the area. |
Keep in mind that the Don Cesar Hotel has undergone a number of renovations and updates over the years to keep up with modern trends and technology. However, the hotel has done its best to maintain its historic charm and character.
Remember that the Don Cesar Hotel is a popular destination for weddings and other special events. The hotel has a number of event spaces available, including a grand ballroom and several outdoor venues.
If you’re interested in learning more about the Don Cesar Hotel, you can visit their website at www.doncesar.com.
Luxurious Amenities at Don Cesar Hotel
Don Cesar Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in St. Pete Beach, Florida. It is a popular destination for those seeking a relaxing vacation, as well as those attending business meetings or conferences. The hotel offers a range of amenities to ensure that guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Rooms and Suites
The rooms and suites at Don Cesar Hotel are spacious and elegantly designed, with modern amenities to ensure guests have a comfortable stay. Each room features a private balcony with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico or the resort’s gardens. The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, and complimentary Wi-Fi. The suites offer additional amenities such as separate living areas, wet bars, and whirlpool tubs.
Dining Options
Don Cesar Hotel offers a range of dining options to suit every taste. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Maritana, serves fresh seafood and innovative cuisine in an elegant atmosphere. The Sea Porch Cafe offers casual dining with stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The Rowe Bar serves handcrafted cocktails and light bites, while the Lobby Bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere for drinks and socializing.
Spa and Fitness Center
The hotel’s spa and fitness center offer guests the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate during their stay. The spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body treatments. The fitness center is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and offers fitness classes such as yoga and Pilates. Guests can also enjoy the hotel’s two outdoor pools and direct access to the beach.
Don Cesar Hotel – A Popular Wedding Destination
The Don Cesar Hotel, also known as the Pink Palace, is a popular destination for weddings due to its beautiful beachfront location and luxurious amenities. The hotel offers a variety of wedding venues to choose from, including the Grand Ballroom, the Beach House Lawn, and the Sunset Deck. Each venue has its own unique charm and can accommodate weddings of different sizes.
The hotel also offers customized wedding packages that include everything from catering and decor to spa services and entertainment. Couples can choose from a variety of package options to fit their budget and preferences. It is worth mentioning that the Don Cesar Hotel has a team of experienced wedding planners who can help couples plan every detail of their special day.
Customer reviews of the Don Cesar Hotel as a wedding venue are overwhelmingly positive. Many couples praise the hotel’s stunning location, exceptional service, and attention to detail. The hotel has also been featured in several wedding publications and websites, including The Knot and WeddingWire.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the Don Cesar Hotel is a fascinating part of Florida’s history.
From its early days as a luxury hotel to its decline and eventual restoration, the hotel has seen it all.
Today, the Don Cesar Hotel continues to be a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its luxurious amenities, stunning architecture, and fascinating history.
So, if you’re ever in Florida, make sure to add the Don Cesar Hotel to your list of must-visit places!
