History whispers from just about every corner of Pittsburgh. No matter where we walk downtown, we’re sure to pass by a piece of history, whether we know it or not. Earning props as the most famous hotel in Pittsburgh, the Omni William Penn Hotel has been a favorite of Pittsburghers and visitors for generations. Spend the night as a guest, or drop by for a meal at one of its restaurants.
Nestled along William Penn Place downtown, the Omni William Penn Hotel is perhaps the most famous and historic hotel in the city, dating back to World War I. The hotel was originally called The William Penn Hotel. It has gone through several name changes during its time.
Predominately funded with Henry Clay Frick's $6 million, the regal hotel debuted with a star-studded affair on March 9, 1916. That evening signaled the beginning of a long and storied history. Prominent guests at the opening night celebration included then-Mayor Joseph Armstrong and actress Lillian Russell.
Politicians and other prominent figures, in fact, would help cement Omni William Penn as the premier Pittsburgh hotel. President Theodore Roosevelt, in 1917, was the first of several presidents to give a speech at the hotel. Vice President Lyndon Johnson stayed at the famous hotel in 1963, just three months before President John F. Kennedy's assassination.
Elegance defines the historic hotel that has been known as the Omni William Penn since 2001. Nine years after the purchase of the hotel by Omni Hotels and Resorts, it initiated a $25 million renovation.
A member of the Historic Hotels of America, the Omni William Penn has also hosted Hollywood several times. The opulent hotel has appeared in several films, including Foxcatcher in 2014.
Overnight guests to the historic hotel can choose between a room or a suite, each of which is brimming with luxurious amenities.
If you're not staying overnight, you'll still want to plan a visit to The Speakeasy, hidden below the hotel lobby. The 1920s-era speakeasy will whisk you back in time. You might also want to stop by for a meal at The Terrace Room, The Tap Room, or Palm Court. The hotel lobby is home to Brueggers Bagels.
Discover the history of Omni William Penn Hotel and book your stay!
Read the full article from Only In Your State here.
About Historic Hotels of America®
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Historic Hotels of America has more than 300 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated historic hotels. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.
