We've been twice now, not quite 2 years apart, and this is now our new Favorite Hotel, replacing the faded dowager, Hotel du Pont in Wilmington, DE.
A renovated tobacco warehouse (tobacco - especially cigar wrapper - is still an important Lancaster County crop), the Lancaster Arts Hotel features brick, stone, massive timbers, and interesting art (mostly available for purchase) throughout the building. Rooms are comfortable, nicely appointed with high-end amenities, and well decorated with, yes, more art.
We were in a Loft Suite this last visit, and there's nothing like relaxing in your whirlpool jet spa tub after a tough day eating and drinking.
Speaking of which, make time for at least one dinner at the John J. Jeffries restaurant in the hotel. The chefs and owners source as much as they can from local, organic sources, and they treat those excellent artisanal ingredients with the skill and respect they deserve.
After dinner, move to the intimate and hopping bar for very interesting, creative, and impeccably prepared cocktails. I am hunting the perfect sazerac, and two of the best three I've ever had were at the bar at the Lancaster Arts Hotel (the other was at Commander's Palace in New Orleans).
We've been back, and will continue to go back time and time again.
A great hotel.
