Black-owned luxe outpost The Ivy Hotel is perfect for a vacation. Travel curator & recent hotel guest Alicia Tambe (@luxeatravels) shares why below.
When Sylvia and Eddie Brown reopened the Ivy Hotel in 2014, they sought to make it the “Jewel” for Baltimore, and they did just that. Settled in Baltimore’s historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, Maryland’s first Relais & Châteaux property will not disappoint you. With only eight suites and nine bedrooms, this boutique property gives all the privacy and service needed for a luxury staycation. Known as the Ivy Experience, a stay at this property comes with much more than mere overnight accommodations (think valet parking, private hotel car service within the city, daily afternoon tea, unlimited self-served cocktails at the Mansion Bar, a fully stocked in-room refrigerator, ready to serve breakfast and much more).
As soon as you arrive, worry about nothing at the Ivy. Prepare to be greeted by name as your car is valeted and your bags are brought to your room. The Ivy staff will be waiting with champagne at the elevator to give you a personalized tour of the property and show you to your room. You will be charmed and amazed as you move from the conservatory to the living room to the library and many hidden gems throughout the property.
One location that is sure to grab your attention is the Mansion Bar. Here, you will enjoy an all-day self-served open bar with top-shelf liquor, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages. Not sure how to make the right cocktail? No worries, test your mixology skills with the on-display bar cocktail recipe.
Don’t be surprised if you spend the entire day in your room! Get comfortable in your luxurious 400-count Frette sheets. A stay at the Ivy is perfect for any season, but the gas fireplace and lavish bathrooms with heated limestone floors in each room position the Ivy as the perfect winter escape.
For dining options, you can grab dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, Magdalena. Want to head off property? You can reach so many galleries, museums, and activities within walking distance. Book the hotel’s private car service which can take you on the perfect city adventure.
