Lancaster Arts Hotel

"So, can you tell us a little about this place?The Lancaster Arts Hotel, housed in a former tobacco warehouse, embodies the steady revitalization of this Amish country city. Behind its plain brick exterior, the look is impressively glossy—think coffee shop meets art gallery—with eclectic furnishings, quirky artwork, and sculptures that hint at the building’s history. (Picture armchairs covered in tobacco-leaf fabric and a handcrafted Victorian-era Dentzel carousel animal.) Plus, it’s within walking distance to town, but removed enough that it still feels like an escape from the hustle and bustle. What’s the crowd like?It’s a mix of business and pleasure travelers, with many Europeans visiting during the summer months. How was check in? Did you get all the information you were looking for?Check-in is very friendly, with thoughtful questions about plans during the visit and suggestions for area restaurants and activities. Now, onto the good stuff: Tell us about the digs.The creative flair you see in the lobby extends to the guest rooms, where refurbished wood floors, exposed brick, and high ceilings lend the industrial feel of an artist’s studio. Gallery-style lighting and original artwork heighten the impression. What can you tell us about the little things, like the minibar or the shower goodies? Anything that made your stay more comfortable?The hotel provides pencils and notebooks, which is a fun feature if you have a creative streak. Wine refrigerators are a nice touch, too, as are the Egyptian cotton linens and bathrobes. How about dining options? What's on offer?Complimentary continental breakfast is served daily in the spotless breakfast room. John J. Jeffries, the on-site restaurant named for a tobacco inspector whose ticket was discovered during renovation, is an up-market spot located just off the lobby; the chefs' skills, coupled with the restaurant's commitment to sourcing from local farms where possible, make it as popular with area residents as with hotel guests. As such, reservations are often necessary. Any other services or features you'd like to shout out?Handcrafted jewelry and art are on display, and both are available for purchase. The hotel also has bicycles available for guests to use—a handy perk if you want to explore Lancaster without the hassle of parking. So, bottom line: worth it, and why?Definitely worth the visit. It's like SoHo before the commercialization (only, in Lancaster)." - Nancy DePalma