Celebrating 90 years in the hotel industry is quite an accomplishment and this is exactly what the historic Thayer Hotel at West Point recently did. Located in New York state, this hotel has provided guests with an exceptional experience for more than nine decades. Dramatic views of the Hudson River and the US Military Academy only serve to enhance the overall allure. Video
While most people are well aware of the high standards that the Thayer Hotel provides, not everyone knows about the West Point Hotel. Back in 1820, the Board of Visitors at USMA recognized the need for a West Point hotel. After accumulating the necessary funds to start construction, the $18,000 hotel opened in the spring of 1829. The hotel provided officers, as well as family and friends, and the visiting public, a comfortable and convenient place to stay.
Eventually, additions were made to the hotel, including the laundry facility in 1890 that is currently known as Building 148. In its prime, The West Point Hotel accommodated high-ranking military personnel, parents of the cadets, government officials, and a variety of other high-profile guests. The hotel also became a social centre for cadets and their families.
As with many hotels built in the 19th century, things began to change. Earlier comforts were considered inefficient and outdated but the cost to completely renovate the hotel was simply too great. In 1920, authorization was handed down for another part of the West Point reservation to be leased for construction and operation of a new hotel.
The result was the U.S. Hotel Thayer, which opened its doors for operation in 1929. Alongside it, the original West Point Hotel continued to operate until it was demolished in 1932. Today, guests are mesmerized by the fine furnishings, artwork, and decor throughout the hotel, which is somewhat reminiscent of the past while boasting modern day amenities and services.
Guests can choose rooms or suites, all beautiful appointed. The Thayer Hotel also has incredible dining options and for activities, guests can venture out within close proximity. This hotel is simply beautiful, making it the ideal place to stay, hold business meetings, and celebrate weddings.
Thayer Hotel Rooms & Suites
Guests of the historic Thayer Hotel have different options for accommodation. Whether staying in one of the unique rooms or suites, there is a distinct Old World Charm blended perfectly with modern day touches. For all accommodations, the oversized bathrooms feature hairdryers and heat lamps for added convenience.
Other amenities for both rooms and suites include a flat screen television with free HBO and Direct TV, voicemail messaging system, wireless high-speed internet, irons and ironing board, working desk, dual data ports, phone, Keurig coffee machines, and in-room copy of "West Point Leadership: Profiles of Courage". Guests also have access to non-smoking guestrooms and facilities if preferred, as well as room service.
The Thayer Hotel has both Deluxe and Premium guestrooms. The Deluxe is spacious, featuring double, queen, and king size bed options. For families with children, the hotel can provide a baby crib and refrigerator. As for the Premium guestroom, it is larger and for beds, guests can choose from double, queen, or king from the original 1926 building.
The historic Thayer Hotel also has a number of suites, each designed for optimal comfort and relaxation. The Executive Junior Suite has modern amenities, king sized bed, high-speed internet, dual data port, 42-inch flat screen television, and massaging showerheads.
Moving up is the Executive Super Suite, which is designed specifically for the corporate business traveller. Along with a king bed is a comfortable sitting area, executive desk and chair, and an adjoining room for holding meetings. In this room is a small refrigerator, table, and conference chairs. For an additional guest, the adjoining room boasts a Murphy bed.
The Eisenhower Suite makes a definite statement. After all, this exact suite has accommodated many high-profile celebrities, including cast members of The Sopranos, Gregory Peck, Luciano Pavarotti, and others, as well as foreign dignitaries and US Presidents. While staying in the hotel, the very desk that guests use today was used by President Dwight D. Eisenhower. There is also a private bedroom and bath, luxurious living room, kitchenette with bar, study, and gorgeous dining room for entertaining.
At the top of the scale is the MacArthur Suite. This suite offers magnificent views but it was also the suite where General Douglas MacArthur stayed when returning home. The entire suite has a stately ambience that is hard to miss. This suite has a large function and living space, coupled with all of the fine furnishings found in the Eisenhower Suite, minus the desk.
For weddings, the Thayer Hotel even has a special Bridal Suite. This exquisite suite allows the bride to prepare for her big day in style. After the wedding, the couple can enjoy panoramic views of the highlands and Hudson River, as well as the plush king-sized bed.
Dining
The Thayer Hotel is home to some of the finest West Point restaurants. MacArthur's Riverview Restaurant has a reputation for excellent atmosphere, service, and cuisine. This restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as an award-winning champagne brunch on Sundays. All meals are masterfully prepared by the trained culinary staff from the Culinary Institute of America.
General Patton's Tavern is another great choice, with an unobstructed view of the Hudson River. In addition to light meals, the tavern has a list of signature cocktails, including a whiskey drink called the Armoured Assault, a bourbon concoction known as the M46 Patton, a tequila creation named the Leading from the Front, and a gin drink known as the Battle of the Bulge, among others.
Zulu Time, is a great rooftop bar and lounge that is perfect when congregating with family, friends, or business colleagues. The food is outstanding, the atmosphere comfortable, and the drinks fresh and innovative. Overlooking the Hudson River between Albany and Manhattan, the views are unparalleled.
Plan This Vacation
For guests staying at the historic Thayer Hotel, there is an abundance of activities nearby. One in particular involves the exploration of the famous West Point Academy. Considered as one of the greatest landmarks in the history of the United States, it is an honor to walk the grounds.
Tours of West Point are available, something the expert staff at the hotel can assist with. Groups of all ages are welcome to walk the very grounds where true military heroes once passed and continue to pass while learning about the origins of West Point and its critical role in the Revolutionary War. Especially for military buffs and military personnel, the tour of this academy is a must see.
Beyond West Point, hotel guests can go shopping, participate in recreational activities, take amazing river cruises, and visit other historic sites.
Address: 674 Thayer Road, West Point, NY 10996, Phone: 800-247-5047
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