Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club

Description

From the Roaring Twenties into the 1960s, this was the Florida Gulf's accommodation of choice for entertainers, athletes, politicians, and socially prominent Northerners. On the banks of Tampa Bay, the Vinoy overlooks a private marina and a cultural district that includes lovely Straub Park, the historic Pier and its shops and restaurants, and two museums: The Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of History. With its manicured tropical landscaping and pleasing Bermuda-pink hue, it counts a croquet court, two pools, a fitness center, a spa, tennis courts, and the marina among its amenities. Following a drop into near oblivion, a $93-million, 1990s renovation found artisans refurbishing the hand-painted wooden ceilings and tile floors; guest rooms were enlarged; and the golf course was redesigned. Today the hotel's interior is a complementary mix of traditional architecture and contemporary furnishings and decor---including pops of bright color and just a touch of mid-century modern.