Well known for Brown University, Providence is home to many important people and American culture. A jaunt through town can only tell you so much about a city, but this hotel has gone above and beyond to tell you the history of this amazing little place.
Strategically placed at the heart of the city of Providence, you'll find the historic Biltmore. This building has been many things through out Providence's history and the most important was when it was the Biltmore Hotel now known at the Graduate. The refurbished accommodations are splendid and warrants at least a night's stay.
Come inside the Graduate hotel and be immersed into the History of Providence. Discover the hidden stories, secrets and potentially ghosts behind the glamorous decor.
Upon walking into this hotel, you are immediately greeted by a grand staircase, chandelier and glass elevator that's used for "time travel only." The interior is gilded from floor to ceiling with touches of glamour from its beautiful green velvet couches and textural paintings adorning the walls. Though extravagantly tall ceilings in the lobby you are drawn to take a seat and enjoy the leisurely pace. Grab yourself a coffee from the Poindexter and a seat in the lobby while cozying up to a newspaper or one of the Graduate's massive books on display.
Above the lobby is a mezzanine level that mimics a library with graciously large tables accompanied by reading lamps and plenty of outlets to get some work done. The fun doesn't stop here as the glass elevator continues throughout the middle of the building; though not functional it once took guests to the top floor for a gorgeous view of the city and also into the ballrooms that fascinatingly still have their original floors and ceilings. You won't be able to get up here unless you are part of an event.
Rooms are extremely spacious, even the most basic of of king sized rooms will make you feel like the royalty you are. Pay close attention to the carpet as you saunter down the hall of what feel like a college dormitory. You may notice something that seems very familiar and just when you think you can make it out, look closer. What you see are donuts and lattes. Rhode Island is well known for having the most donut shops per captia and similarly well known for coffee milk. This isn't the only crazy thing you'll find here. Keep looking around once you reach your room.
No, those are family members on the wall; they are actually famous people from Rhode Island or Brown University graduates. You'll find the likes of JFK Jr. Tedd Turner, Maya Keyes, Laura Linney, John D. Rockefeller Jr. and so many more. Each piece of artwork is hand selected and pays homage to the state or city. Unique finds such as the Heisman Trohpy noted for John Heisman's time playing ball for Brown University and the blue bear (in red overalls) lamp is a nod to Stewie from Family Guy, whose creator Seth McFarlane came from Rhode Island. The blue bear lamp also has significance to Brown University who would greet Freshman yearly on campus.
Every touch of this hotel exudes Rhode Island and should be explored with more detail. You can inquire more information from the hotel reception and you may even hear of a few guests remarks of unseen visitors...
The hotel was originally built in the early 1900's, during this time prohibition was in it's infancy. Crime and gangs were at all time highs and the climb for riches at the top of the century was peaking. The Biltmore has gone through it's fair share of changes even in the early years as there were some interesting exchanges taking place to claim it. It was also once a speakeasy where many got into trouble and often lead to corrals and even murders. Some say the ghosts of the Biltmore still "haunt" areas, but there's only one true way to find out.
If you're planning a stop in or near Providence, be sure to check into this amazing hotel. You'll enjoy its many interesting facts, stories and location. Don't forget to ask about the flood when you check in.
Book your next stay with Graduate hotels at Graduatehotels.com
