Anyiah Dunbar

BEST HOTEL

The Strathallan

550 East Ave. | 585-461-5010 Strathallan.com

The Strathallan, a DoubleTree Hotel by Hilton, has the bona fides to back up its self-proclaimed title of “Rochester’s premier boutique hotel.” The grounds boast a first-class spa, upscale cuisine, and breathtaking views, all within walking distance of the city’s most prominent cultural attractions. Built on the site of one of East Avenue’s grand Victorian mansions on Strathallan Park and originally planned as a nursing home that never panned out, the Strathallan was converted to a 157-room hotel in 1979 and became an overnight destination (pun intended). Some of the names in its guest book include Muhammad Ali, Sophia Loren, Tom Petty, and former President George H. W. Bush. Recent additions of suites at the mansion next door, known as the Seven on Strathallan, and meeting and conference rooms nearby at what was the Century Club, have only enhanced the hotel’s prestige. Visiting the rooftop cocktail lounge Hattie’s can be an ideal way to unwind in the warmer months. Fun fact: The restaurant is named for former resident of the street and activist, Hattie Harris, who was known as “The Mayor of Strathallan Park” and helped get the hotel off the ground. Finalists: Del Monte Lodge | Inn on Broadway | Woodcliff Hotel & Spa