Orchids at Palm Court is in the center of French Art Deco loveliness
Cincinnati, Ohio was number three on the Lonely Planet’s list of top 10 U.S. destinations for 2012. The Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza is number one when it comes to French Art Deco. Opened in 1931, the Netherland Plaza is considered among the finest examples of French Art Deco in the world.
It’s truly take your breath away glorious. Ceiling murals, Brazilian rosewood paneling, frescos, a Rookwood-tiled fountain, stylized German silver decorative details and an Egyptian motif create an ambiance that’s exotic and artsy. The bar at the Palm Court just off the hotel’s lobby is my favorite spot for a drink in the Queen City–Cincinnati’s nickname.
I’ve spotted theater folks here twice. The first time it was dancers from the traveling Broadway musical “Cats,” and a couple years ago, I saw some of the cast from Radio City Music Hall’s “Christmas Spectacular”. If I were in a Broadway traveling show, I’d stay here myself. First off, it’s near Cincinnati’s heart–Fountain Square and within walking distance to several prime attractions. Cincinnati is a Midwestern city where downtown has top notch things to do.
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Depending on when you visit you can see the Cincinnati Reds or the Bengals play. The Arnoff Center for the Performing Arts, The National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, and the Taft Museum of Art are a stroll away. Also, there’s shopping. The Carew Tower Complex, where the hotel is located, has upscale shops and Macy’s is right next to Fountain Square.
For dining, you can’t go wrong by savoring a meal at Orchids at Palm Court. With its seasonally changing menu, the restaurant is another Netherland Plaza distinction. Executive Chef Paul Kelly has helped lead the restaurant to its standing as one of the top 50 restaurants in the United States and to the number one spot for dining in Cincinnati according to Zagat. A friend of mine who has had Sunday brunch here has proclaimed it over-the-top awesome.
Oh, yeah-about the rooms. There are 561 guest rooms and suites with Hilton’s Serenity beds, 250 count sheets and feather pillows for a luxurious night of slumber.
But don’t stay in the room too long. Cincinnati is well worth seeing. If you go, head to Krohn Conservatory and Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal for more of Cincinnati’s Art Deco grandeur.
Check prices online at the official website, Expedia, or Hotels.com
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza
35 West Fifth Street
Cincinnati, Ohio, 45202
TEL: 1-513-421-9100
Photos courtesy of Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza Hotel.
