CHICAGO — May 22, 2013 — Believing that nothing captures the excitement of the season quite like an all-American summer vacation, Preferred Hotels® & Resorts introduces four getaways that showcase some of the country’s most entertaining events and attractions. From quirky roadside attractions to traditional New England clambakes and classic state fairs, these coast-to-coast (and in between) adventures deliver classic summer memories. Whether travelers opt for one of these experiences or create their own vacation at member hotels across the United States, they will enjoy the high standards of hospitality that have made Preferred Hotels & Resorts one of the world’s most trusted independent luxury hotel brands.
Spot a Spirited Recycling Story
A simple Houston home project that started in 1968 is now one of the country’s quirkier roadside attractions. It is The Beer Can House, a home covered in homemade aluminum siding—approximately 50,000 flattened beer cans to be exact. A celebrated monument to recycling, the local landmark is the work of John Milkovisch, a retired upholsterer who first turned his lawn into a marble- and stone- covered landscape to avoid cutting the grass and then turned his attention to his home’s exterior. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, tours are offered Wednesdays through Sundays ($5 per person).
After their roadside visit, travelers can retreat from the heat at The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa. This luxury urban resort is located just three miles from the Beer Can House, directly down Memorial Drive, tucked on 18 wooded acres in the heart of Houston. Guests have access to the renowned Houstonian Club (an expertly staffed 175,000-square-foot health club), the acclaimed Trellis Spa, and Olivette, which serves regional- and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, while receiving world-class hospitality from gracious staffers, some of whom have called The Houstonian home for more than 20 years.
Make Memories in Minnesota
Travelers can make new friends at “The Great Minnesota Get-Together” (aka the Minnesota State Fair), kicking off Thursday, August 22. The second-largest state fair in the United States, this 12-day event features attractions such as go-carts, wall climbing, turbo bungy, and a reptile show, as well as musical guests like Tim McGraw, Macklemore, and Ryan Lewis. Unique bites like chicken nachos on a stick and fried chocolate chip cookie dough are fun alternatives to the typical cotton candy and funnel cake festival fare.
Located in the heart of downtown St. Paul, less than five miles away from the fair grounds, the acclaimed Saint Paul Hotel is a prime choice for fairgoers. Winner of the AAA Four Diamond Award for 30 consecutive years, The Saint Paul is a charming, historic hotel featuring European-inspired accommodations with views of Rice Park and The Landmark Center. Guests enjoy complimentary transportation at specific times during the day to downtown hot spots, including the Grand Avenue and Selby Avenue areas.
Enjoy a Classic Taste of Summer in New England
The award-winning Wequassett Resort and Golf Club in Harwich, MA invites travelers to indulge in a taste of the Atlantic during its Clambake Nights every Monday from July 8 through August 26. The New England tradition is presented during poolside parties on the Pleasant Bay Terrace when Executive Chef James Hackney’s expert culinary team serves up fresh local Chatham soft shell steamers, mussels, and lobster with quintessential sides like coleslaw and cornbread ($69.00/adult; $20.00/children ages 6-12). In addition, the luxury Cape Cod hotel caters to summertime fun with four restaurants, championship golf, four Har Tru tennis courts, two pools, and access to the secluded Pleasant Bay beach by boat.
Take a Stand (on a Paddleboard) in California
This summer, paddleboarding is poised to move into the mainstream. La Vida Laguna offers two-hour stand-up paddleboard lessons or tours, allowing aspiring boarders to paddle around reefs in the calm waters at Fisherman’s Cove and, perhaps, catch a glimpse of the colony of California Sea Lions known to venture out on the nearby Seal Rock. Lessons start at $125 per person (ages 12 and over).
Afterwards, guests can give their extremities a much-needed rest at Surf & Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, CA, located two miles south of Fisherman’s Cove. Each newly renovated guestroom, including 13 Laguna Beach suites, at this luxury oceanside resort features a private balcony with ocean views. For a relaxing day on property, guests can head to Aquaterra Spa, relax on the beach, or sunbathe poolside. From June 28 to September 1, a local trolley provides free transportation around town to acclaimed art galleries, shops, and restaurants.
To reserve a summertime American adventure with Preferred Hotels & Resorts, visit www.PreferredHotels.com.
About Preferred Hotels® & Resorts
Preferred Hotels® & Resorts, a brand of Preferred Hotel Group™, is the ultimate luxury collection of more than 250 independent hotels and resorts worldwide. The brand represents the very best in refined travel, defined by anticipatory service, personalized guest experiences, and the highest standards of hospitality. For reservations and more information on the Preferred Hotels & Resorts collection, visit www.PreferredHotels.com.
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