Mason City has something new to be really proud of. It’s the Historic Park Inn Hotel, parts of which are still under construction. Above: A black stretch limo is parked out side the Park Inn Hotel Thursday evening. Story and some photos by Greg Osborne of Mason City.|Mason City has something new to be really proud of. It’s the Historic Park Inn Hotel, parts of which are still under construction.
The hotel is open and the 27 rooms are well booked for the grand opening and after.
Click here to view some photos.
It’s the last remaining hotel designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Samantha, one of the auditors, is behind the desk and shown in the wine room (see photos). The bar and billiard room is open but the table is awaiting the felt top. It was really hoppin’ several nights last week she said with young (and not so young) patrons enjoying the rich atmosphere.
There were cars from all over America parked in the new parking spaces just north of the hotel all last week; some from New York, Ohio, Wisconsin, Texas.
Grand opening will be September 10 which will be 101 years to the day of the original opening.
Tours are planned and can be scheduled through the Wright on the Park organization. Other goings ons’ to celebrate the opening will be September 5 in Central Park. Click here for more information on the grand opening.
This is truly a beautiful place. It can compete with the best in any city and the rooms are affordable. $100 to $250 per night. Different rooms styles are available. There’s a bridal suite with whirlpool and a business suite, handicap accessible rooms and the historic room. All rooms have internet, TV and refrigerators. There’s the ladies parlor and billiards for guys and gals. The mezzanine has a baby grand player piano.
The lighting is a little subdued which adds richness to the atmosphere. All but the 101 year old floor has been redone. It’s the only original part from the Frank Lloyd Wright plan. He was actually present when the building was under construction. Some of the woodwork is also original but has been refinished. The carpet in the lobby looks old too. Not so. Made in Egypt and just delivered. The Skylight Room is for sitting and light breakfasts. The telephones are a nice touch and they work! A restaurant is attached but awaiting a lessor. Yet to be finished are the ballroom and conference rooms.
Seven hotels were built by Wright. The last to go was the Imperial Hotel in Toyko. Wright’s most famous. It suffered extensive damage from an earthquake in 1923 and was eventually torn down.
Click here for a history of the Park Inn.
Anyone who wants to pay a little more than the local hotels will find the Historic Park Inn Hotel to be a place of culture and character. The hotel is managed by Tracy Knebel. The phone number is 641-422-0015.|
