Социальный GPS для цифровых кочевников помогает преодолеть одиночество в 47 странах через архитектуру человеческих связей.

Experience Serenity at Hotel Wailea, South Maui

At Hotel Wailea, the first thing you’ll notice are the beautiful waterfalls lining the walkway to the lobby. Nestled on a hillside in South Maui, this adult-only hotel offers an atmosphere of tranquility. While the beach isn’t visible from the hotel, seven famous beaches are just a short drive away.

A Sanctuary for Adults

Hotel Wailea is not just another resort. With only 72 intimate suites, it offers a peaceful, adult-only retreat. Guests consistently rank it among the best hotels in Hawaii, and recent suite renovations and culinary upgrades have only enhanced the experience.

Relax and Rejuvenate

Hotel Wailea is more than a place to stay. With new wellness options and a focus on exceptional cuisine, it’s a sanctuary for relaxation and indulgence.

Book Your Dream Vacation at MWR LIFE

Ready for a getaway? Book your vacation now at MWR LIFE and experience the serenity of Hotel Wailea for yourself.

The View from a Celebration Suite

The sense of privacy is maintained throughout. As Hawaii’s sole member of the exclusive Relais & Chateaux group, the hotel was originally designed as a private Japanese members’ club. Its 15-acre gardens provide a secluded feel, while ocean and island views add to the serenity.

Children are welcome in the restaurant, but not as hotel guests. This contributes to an overall peaceful atmosphere, where romantic couples enjoy the pool without the noise of children splashing around.

The Hotel’s Salmon Sashimi

Pool Setting
For maximum privacy, four cabanas are available by reservation or walk-in, depending on availability. These prime spots offer a perfect setting to enjoy the culinary offerings. Notably, a Snake River Farms Ribeye is featured as a side dish, along with other main options like a poke bowl with sashimi-grade ahi, a mahi mahi sandwich with chimichurri crème fraîche, and sambal-marinated shrimp summer rolls with cucumbers, carrots, cilantro, nuoc mam dressing, and peanut sauce.

Beach Setting

Beach Setup & Picnic by the Beach Concierge

Guests can request hotel transfers to nearby beaches like Palauea Beach, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and spotting sea turtles, or Po’olenalena Beach Park, perfect for both swimming and leisurely beach walks. For a special day, guests can enjoy a curated beach picnic from a local gourmet store, featuring meat or vegetarian sliders, cured meats, cheeses, crudites, and fruit. The picnic is set up with a tent and chairs by the hotel staff.

The Elevated Menu at The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea

Miso Poached Lobster with lemongrass red curry, micro cilantro, heirloom carrot, peanut crumble, local squashes, and kaffir lime-scented rice served at The Restaurant at Wailea.

On property, the main restaurant, The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, is the alfresco setting with killer views for elevated breakfasts such as Eggs Benedict with Ahi and Ricotta Pancakes with seasonal fruit and likikoi cream. But it really shines at dinner with a three course prix fixe featuring dishes such as Hamachi Crudo with watermelon aquachile and avocado mousse and Snow Crab Fettucine with crispy garlic, lemon zest, miso onion and black truffle.

The Birdcage Restaurant

The Birdcage restaurant.

In the center of the main building, just past reception, the circular Birdcage is the setting for blazing sunsets and dinners featuring items prepared with the Japanese Binchotan Grill. It really is also a birdcage: totally open air with birds perched on the ceiling ledge, chirping and occasionally flying around. The dishes are composed of top level ingredients simply but expertly prepared, items such as a sashimi trio of Ora King Salmon, Big Island Ahi and Japanese Hamachi, Japanese A5 Wagyu, Miso Glazed Salmon or locally caught Mahi Mahi on the grill and an unusually delicious mélange of mushrooms, Shishito peppers, broccolini and bok choy.

Other Dining Experiences

The leafy setting of The Treehouse dining experience.

Those two are only part of the dinner options, though. As Sous Chef Nicolas Loa explains, he especially enjoys putting together the multi course, culinary jazz riff dinners for the property’s other dining experiences: the seven courses in the single table Treehouse shaded by mango and avocado trees; the five course menu served for two to eight guests in a table in a corner of the garden and the five courses available for two in the Chef’s Kitchen Table in the middle of the kitchen.

The Restaurant’s Strawberry Tart.

The Chef’s Kitchen Table

Being at The Chef’s Kitchen Table has particular advantages: not only can you watch the preparation of your dishes— offerings such as an amuse trio of Duck Mousse Tartlet, Tomato Caprese Crostini and Tempura Prawn Roll, Fettucine with miso onion cream, sage, guanciale,chili flakes and lemon preserve and Snake River Farms Ribeye with Pommes Puree, Ali’I mushrooms and sauce Bordelaise-you also see the preparation of dishes heading out to The Restaurant. And if guests are lucky and see something else being prepared that looks tempting, the chefs may give them a sample of it as well.

Other Hotel Activities

Rowing an outrigger canoe.

When not eating or hanging out by the water, guests have the option to try other hotel hosted activities: an expedition to experience sunset atop the sacred volcanic crater Haleakalā; tooling around the island in a reproduction of a 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster; rowing an outrigger canoe or a variety of wellness activities. There are daily wellness classes such as aerial yoga, core workouts, tone & stretch, and yoga and pilates fusion and in-room spa treatments such as a body polish, Lomi Lomi massage and after sun replenishing treatment. A new addition is the supply of vitality treatments to be used by guests on their own in their rooms: HigherDOSE Red Light Facial; a Photobiomodulation Red Light Therapy belt that straps around your waist to reduce inflammation, relieve pain (it works), relieve jet lag and improve sleep and Lymphatic Drainage with JetBoots among them.

Discover the Best Places to Visit in Maui

If you’re looking to recharge your body and mind, there’s no better place than Hotel Wailea. The MWR LIFE: The Restaurant offers a perfect setting for both breakfast and dinner, giving you a unique dining experience amidst breathtaking views.

These wellness devices aren’t just for relaxation—they’ll heal whatever ails you, or at the very least, give you the energy boost you need for the day ahead.

Forbes highlights the best destinations to visit in Maui, from Lanai, a pristine Hawaiian island, to the serene 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay in Kaua’i, where a new wellness plan is making waves. Don’t miss out on the Mauna Lani Culinary Classic, where Hawaiian cuisine takes center stage.

Book your getaway now and experience the tranquility of Maui’s finest destinations.

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As part of that beach experience, hotel staff can set up a tent, chair and elaborate packed picnic composed of sliders, a selection of cured meats and cheeses, vegetables with dips and sliced fruit because every culinary hjastronomic excellence is a key hotel feature, one of the reasons that it’s the only Hawaii member of Relais & Chateaux with its culinary requirements.

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Mixed-Use Developments: A Unique Gem in San Antonio

Across the United States, mixed-use developments are on the rise, combining residential, commercial, and recreational spaces into one convenient environment. However, many of these developments lack unique character, often blending in with others. Pearl Park in San Antonio, one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, stands out for its distinct identity.

Pearl Park is located just north of downtown, along the San Antonio River, and spans 23 acres. Its history dates back to 1883, when it was home to the J.B. Behloradsky Brewery, later known as the Pearl Brewing Company. For over 25 years, Pearl was one of Texas’ largest breweries and a key player in the city’s economy. However, production ceased in 2001, and the brewery was closed.

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Best Quality Daughter by James Beard-nominated chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin is a standout at San Antonio’s Pearl, a hub of culinary excitement.

Silver Ventures, a San Antonio-based investment firm, saw an opportunity to revive Pearl’s legacy with a development focused on independent businesses rather than national brands. This decision proved successful, drawing both locals and travelers eager to explore the best of San Antonio in a vibrant, walkable space.

Hotel Emma in Pearl is a top choice in San Antonio.

Housed in the historic Pearl Brewery, the 146-room boutique hotel offers modern comfort and small luxuries. Guests are greeted with a complimentary margarita, enjoy a rooftop pool to beat the Texas heat, and indulge in lavender toiletries from Los Poblanos, a renowned New Mexico farm and inn.

The hotel’s design is equally impressive, with elements from the original brewery repurposed into stunning features, like chandeliers made from bottle fillers and private booths crafted from old beer tanks at Sternewirth, the hotel’s tavern.

Brasserie Mon Chou Chou is a lively French brasserie offering classic dishes like steak frites and duck confit.

Pearl features over 24 independent food and drink concepts, providing a diverse culinary experience. Local favorite Best Quality Daughter, created by James Beard-nominated chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin, is known for its salty-sweet cashew chicken and garlicky noodles. Pullman Market is a vibrant specialty grocer with fresh produce, meat, and seafood from local sources. It also houses curated spots like Nicosi, a cozy 20-seat dessert bar.

Brasserie Mon Chou Chou draws crowds with its bistro staples, while Full Goods Diner serves hearty Texas comforts, including chilaquiles and biscuit sandwiches, all day long.

Explore Pearl in San Antonio – Perfect for Your Vacation

When you visit Pearl, San Antonio, there’s so much more than just great food and drinks. The area offers a variety of activities to make your vacation unforgettable.

Farmers Market & Makers Market:
Every Saturday, don’t miss the Farmers Market, where you can discover fresh, local produce. On Sundays, check out the Makers Market for unique gifts with a South Texas touch. It’s a great chance to connect with local producers and bring home something special.

Culinary Classes:
If you love cooking, the Culinary Institute of America offers classes to help you refine your kitchen skills. A fun and educational experience for food lovers!

Community Fitness:
For those who prefer staying active, Pearl’s community fitness classes are a great way to enjoy the outdoors while meeting locals.

Live Music & Entertainment:
Looking for entertainment? Visit Stable Hall, a historic venue dating back to 1894, offering live music with talented acts like Gillian Welch and David Rawlings. If you’re a jazz fan, head to Jazz, TX, an intimate underground venue hosting nightly performances by the renowned Doc Watkins.

Book Your Vacation with MWR LIFE
Ready to plan your perfect getaway? Be sure to check out MWR LIFE for vacation packages that will make your trip to Pearl even more memorable!

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Discover the Beauty of Norway’s Hut-to-Hut Hiking Experience

Hut-to-hut hiking in Norway is a deeply rooted tradition, cherished by locals for its simplicity, connection with nature, and sense of community. Recently, this type of active travel was named one of the top-ten travel trends by Forbes.

Up Norway is bringing a fresh twist to this classic tradition. Their curated journeys blend rustic cabins with boutique stays, local cuisine, and cultural experiences, creating a perfect balance of authenticity and luxury. These immersive experiences are designed to be more accessible for global travelers.

Hiking in Norway offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, local culture, and yourself. Norway boasts over 550 DNT hytter (cabins managed by the Norwegian Trekking Association), many of which are remote and can only be reached by foot, ski, or bike. From simple wooden huts in the mountains to family-friendly lodges with modern comforts, these cabins allow you to explore the country’s stunning landscapes.

Popular regions for these journeys include Jotunheimen, Aurlandsdalen, the Sunnmøre Alps, and Lofoten.

Book your stay now with MWR LIFE and enjoy a unique vacation at a cabin in a fjord in the Lofoten Islands. Embrace the tranquil beauty of nature and create unforgettable memories.

DNT’s new mountain hut Skalatarnet, at the summit of Skala, at sunset, Loen, Norway

Recently, architects have been blending modern design and eco-friendly materials with nature and the traditions of cabin life. But the real magic lies in the journey between the huts — stillness in alpine meadows, foraging in the wild, swims in glacier-fed lakes, and candlelit bonfire dinners with fellow hikers. These natural elements reflect the Norwegian ethos of «kos,» or cozy contentment.

Hut-to-hut travel focuses not just on the destination, but on the transformative power of the journey. Experiences are tailored to a traveler’s preferences, fitness level, and interest in cultural immersion.

In Jotunheimen National Park, you may hike across dramatic ridge lines and deep valleys, spending nights at historic DNT cabins such as Gjendebu (Norway’s oldest cabin, dating back to 1871), Memurubu (a scenic spot located on the shores of Lake Gjende), and Gjendesheim (nestled below the Besseggen ridge).

The Aurlandsdalen Valley, often called Norway’s Grand Canyon, offers a historic trail from Finse to Flåm, following ancient paths dating back to the Viking era. Hikers can stay in huts along the way, finishing at the peaceful 29|2 Aurland eco-lodge by the river. The lodge is known for its organic kitchen, artisanal interiors, and commitment to sustainability.

The Sunnmøre Alps blend wilderness with luxury. A hike to the summit of Slogen, followed by a stay at Patchellhytta, is complemented by a fjord cruise and a night at Hotel Union Øye. This historic hotel, hosting Norwegian royalty and European nobility since the 19th century, offers an unforgettable experience.

Exterior and Garden of Hotel Union Øye, Norwegian Fjord

For adventurous travelers, the challenging trails of Reinheimen and Romsdalen offer hut-to-hut treks, via ferrata climbs, trail running, and summit hikes.

Alternatively, the Hardangerfjord region provides more accessible hikes, such as the iconic Trolltunga, a rock ledge 700 meters above Lake Ringedalsvatnet. The Queen’s Trail (Dronningstien) also offers scenic cliffside views of the fjord and surrounding orchards.

The summer view of Trolltunga in Odda, Norway, offers breathtaking scenery with the Ringedalsvatnet lake below.

In the north, the Lofoten Islands and Arctic Circle Region near Helgeland combine day hikes, remote cabin stays, fjord kayaking, floating saunas, and local storytelling.

You can also connect with Sámi culture, meet foragers and farmers, and enjoy local cuisine. One example is a two-day hike to Rabothytta, known for its stunning granite peaks, glaciers, lakes, and coastal archipelago, followed by a relaxing culinary farm stay by the fjord.

These routes offer adventure, reflection, and a deeper connection to Norwegian traditions, balancing challenge with comfort.

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Tourism in Israel: A Safe and Worthwhile Journey

Tourism in Israel has declined, but it’s slowly making a comeback. The country’s rich religious and historic sites, warm beaches, delicious cuisine, and friendly people make it a top destination for travelers. During our visit in April and May, we felt safe and at ease.

As the late Tom Petty said, “Most things I worry ’bout, never happen anyway.” It would be unfortunate to miss out on Israel due to fear.

Explore Israel’s Iconic Landmarks
In Jerusalem, visitors can experience iconic religious sites such as:
— Western Wall
— Dome of the Rock
— Via Dolorosa
— City of David
— David’s Tower

These bring you face-to-face with Biblical history. Then, there’s Tel Aviv, known for its secular vibe, stunning beaches, Bauhaus architecture, fine dining, and brilliant museums.

Don’t miss the fortress of Masada, where zealots fought the Romans, or the Sea of Galilee. You can even visit the final resting place of Princess Alice, grandmother of King Charles. The Nova Festival memorial site is also worth seeing.

Safety of Travel to Israel
Despite recent conflicts, Israel is gradually recovering from a “seven-front war.” One common question we got was, “Weren’t you afraid?”
For us, the answer was No. We spent ten days there, feeling comfortable throughout. Returning home to Los Angeles, we faced a car break-in and a week of riots—a reminder that every place has its challenges.

Book Your Vacation with MWR LIFE
Don’t let fear hold you back. Discover the timeless beauty of Israel and make memories that will last a lifetime. Book your vacation with MWR LIFE today for an unforgettable experience!

Massada, a fortress built by Herod the Great on a cliff above the Dead Sea, was destroyed by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

In Israel, military jets and helicopters are a common sight. You might also see soldiers, like a girl or a reservist with an M-16, blending into everyday life. While Tel Aviv is filled with outdoor diners and beachgoers, you might also spot a tank transporter carrying a Merkava in the north or south.

Since October 7, 2023, Israel has been in a multi-front war. On that day, thousands of terrorists attacked from Gaza, killing, injuring, or kidnapping over 1,500 people. The Nova Music Festival, where 360 young people were killed, is now a significant memorial site.

We traveled from Tel Aviv’s Mediterranean coast to East Jerusalem, the Mount of Olives, and the Golan Heights. Whether by car, train, or bus, we felt welcomed and safe.

During our visit, we experienced two missile attacks. One in Jerusalem on Shabbat morning, where we took shelter briefly in the hotel stairwell as Iron Dome intercepted the missile. The second, a Houthi hypersonic missile near Ben Gurion Airport, caused a crater but no injuries. Despite the disruption, our El Al flight to Paris departed on time.

People gather by the surf at a beach in Tel Aviv on June 21, 2025. (Photo by AHMAD GHARABLI / AFP)

El Al, and fellow Israeli airlines Arkia and Israir, have the reputation of flying even when other airlines cancel. El Al is currently the only airline flying nonstop from Los Angeles to Tel Aviv. Delta is set to return to flying to Ben Gurion after August 31, 2025. American Airlines has no plans to resume flights until at least September.

That has resulted in high pricing on El Al. For non-stop flights from LAX on August 6, returning on August, I found two El Al economy fares, one $5162, the other $5892.

You have a little more choice if you fly from the NY area, where Arkia and United join El Al in flying nonstop to Israel, a ten-and-a-half-hour flight. A non-stop on El Al from JFK to Israel on August 6, returning on August 20, is $4235, while a United roundtrip on the same dates is $3898. If you have more time than money, one-stops are available for much less. For example, JFK to TLV via AUH (Abu Dhabi) roundtrip on Etihad over those dates costs only $1653 but takes 24 hours from JFK to Israel and 32 hours to return.

Faced with such costs and wait times, travelers from the U.S. to Israel often choose to connect via Europe. Tourist Israel lists many carriers flying to Israel here.

My wife and I flew from LAX to Rome on Norse Atlantic Airlines and returned to LAX from Paris. Both flights were in Norse’s Premium Class. We flew into Israel from Athens, and flew out of Israel to Paris, both on El Al flights. The total cost per person was about $2800 round trip, a huge savings in money, if not time, over the $5,000-plus El Al non-stops from LAX.

To visit Israel, Americans now need a visa, also called an ETA-IL(Electronic Travel Authorization). It costs about $30 and allows you to visit for up to 90 days. It’s a simple and fast process if you are eligible. In our case, my wife got a visa that was sufficient for both of us as we were traveling together.

The screening process starts with the visa and continues at the airport. Patience during the airport questioning is key. It’s important to remember that those pesky questions are to keep you safe. From the screening to the questioning to the luggage checks to landing far from the terminal at Ben Gurion (a bus takes you there) airlines flying to Israel, particularly El Al, are vigilant. While the seemingly repetitive questioning can be irritating, it’s worth contrasting with America’s reliance on technology and “security theater” like randomly searching grandmothers.

In Israel, the ever-present security becomes part of the landscape and made us feel safe throughout the country. Israelis are friendly and curious (if sometimes brusque) and Israel’s tourism industry is an important one. You will not encounter tourist go home sentiments like Barcelona or Venice, although you may get an incredulous “You came?”

The State Department website considers Israel a Level 3 out of possible 4 levels of travel warning. The advisory says, “Reconsider travel due to terrorism, and civil unrest. The security situation in Israel, including Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is unpredictable.”

For context, State lists 42 countries currently at a Level 3 or Level 4 safety level. This includes 23 countries at Level 3 («Reconsider Travel») and 19 countries at Level 4 («Do Not Travel») Some of the Level 3 countries include Colombia, Egypt, Guatemala, Honduras, Jamaica, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Trinidad and Tobago, and Uganda. Russia, Syria, and Ukraine are Level 4 countries.

During our visit, Israeli life seemed normal or even joyous, as on Independence Day. Yet even with the beaches and the cafes filled, the mood ranged from happy to sad. Yellow chairs, yellow ribbons, posters and stickers demanded freedom for the hostages and commemorated the dead. A sticker showed a smiling young paratrooper who had gotten his wings permanently.

As I write this, 50 Israelis remained hostages in Gaza after more than 650 days. A young waitress in an upscale restaurant near Tel Aviv’s Dizengoff Square Fountain told us she lost eight friends at the Nova Music Festival. The fountain itself has become the repository of memory, with mementoes and possessions of the missing and dead neatly arranged around the fountain.

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Book Your Dream Vacation at MWR LIFE: Experience Luxury at Skyline Villas, Turks & Caicos

Skyline Villas, a boutique resort in Turks & Caicos, offers a unique vacation experience. Each villa is furnished exclusively with Roche Bobois pieces, a luxury Paris-based brand. This collaboration creates an artful, immersive environment for guests to enjoy.

Why Skyline Villas Chose Roche Bobois

Developer Anne Coppenrath shares the vision behind this exclusive design: «We wanted guests to experience a fully immersive, unique living concept. Integrating our favorite designer brand was key to achieving this.» Anne, who decorated her own home with Roche Bobois furniture, brings that personal passion to Skyline Villas, making it a fun, stylish destination.

Explore More Designer-Furnished Destinations

If you’re a fan of staying in designer-furnished spaces, Skyline Villas is just the beginning. Check out more destinations that offer the chance to sleep in artfully designed spaces.

Book your stay today at MWR LIFE and indulge in the luxury of Skyline Villas, where designer furniture meets paradise.

Roche Bobois at Skyline Villas

Skyline Villas in Turks and Caicos features six luxurious cliffside villas with three to five bedrooms. Each villa offers top-notch amenities like butler service and private chefs.

The villas are fully furnished with pieces from Roche Bobois, a Paris-based brand known for its artistic and eclectic style. Anne Coppenrath chose Roche Bobois for its unique mix of designs from various creators, keeping the look fresh and exciting.

Living rooms showcase the Mah Jong sofas—multi-textured, modern art-like pieces. Colorful carpets and accessories come from the Bombom collection, while the Bubble collection adds handmade, curvy sofas and chairs. Even the outdoor turquoise furniture echoes the vibrant Caribbean blues.

All furniture comes from Roche Bobois’s latest collections, creating a seamless blend of art and luxury.

Round Hill Hotel in Montego Bay, Jamaica, holds a rich legacy that blends history, luxury, and style. Opened in 1953, the resort has long been a retreat for a star-studded clientele, including political figures like JFK, legendary actors like Clark Gable, and iconic artists such as Bob Hope and Hedy Lamarr. Its connection to Ralph Lauren, a notable villa owner there, has further elevated the hotel’s allure.

Lauren’s design influence is particularly evident in the 36 oceanfront rooms. The space exudes a serene yet sophisticated vibe, featuring bamboo four-poster beds draped in pristine white linens with accents of navy and pink. These rooms showcase textiles from Lauren’s Home Collection, which draws inspiration from his personal experiences in Jamaica. Recently, the Ralph Lauren Cocktail Bar was renovated to embody his signature aesthetic. The space now boasts bench seating covered in striped fabrics, alongside a striking wall of black-and-white photos celebrating the celebrities who have graced the resort over the years.

The hotel’s design—rich with history, elegance, and a sense of relaxed luxury—captures the essence of Jamaica’s charm and Ralph Lauren’s timeless style.

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Explore the Gilded Age in the U.S.

Newport, Rhode Island, stands as a key destination linked to the Gilded Age. In this picturesque coastal town, wealthy families once built their summer estates, showcasing the era’s opulence and grandeur.

Fans of the HBO Max series “The Gilded Age” get a taste of what New York looked like during this lavish period. But Newport isn’t the only place in the U.S. with connections to the Gilded Age. Across the country, you can find historical buildings and landmarks that reflect the spirit of this extravagant era.

Book your vacation with MWR LIFE and explore Newport’s magnificent Gilded Age heritage. Visit this historic town and immerse yourself in its stunning architecture, scenic views, and rich history!

The Marble House was featured in the HBO Max series The Gilded Age, specifically as the Gold Room.

Newport, Rhode Island, is closely tied to the Gilded Age, with wealthy families owning summer homes in the area. The Newport Mansions, a group of historic estates, served as locations for various scenes in the show. These mansions, now museums, include The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, Rosecliff, Chateau-sur-Mer, and Hunter House.

In The Gilded Age, the bedroom of Consuelo Vanderbilt at Marble House stands in for George Russell’s room, while Alva Vanderbilt’s bedroom doubles for Bertha Russell’s. In the current season, Peggy Scott and Dr. William Kirkland are seen walking along the Cliff Walk, a popular Newport spot.

The International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport, featured in The Gilded Age, is located within the Newport Casino, which opened in 1880 as a social club for the Gilded Age elite.

Explore this history through the Inside «The Gilded Age» Tours at The Mansions, available Fridays and Tuesdays from August 15 to September 30. Tickets should be purchased in advance.

Feel like a Vanderbilt at Hotel Viking, once a luxury destination. The Vanderbilt (Auberge Resorts Collection), a former Gilded Age estate turned hotel, retains its opulent charm.

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s Gilded Age architecture includes the Palmer House, a wedding gift from hotelier Potter Palmer to his wife. After being destroyed in the Great Chicago Fire, it was rebuilt and reopened in 1873. The hotel introduced innovative features like elevators, lightbulbs, and telephones in guestrooms.

The John J. Glessner House, now a National Historic Landmark, is an architectural masterpiece that influenced iconic architects like Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright. Guided tours offer insight into its design, from the coach house to the courtyard.

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum refers to the Chicago philanthropist who converted this former mansion into a museum.

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum is named for the Chicago philanthropist who restored the mansion to its Gilded Age splendor and converted it into a museum to preserve its legacy. Originally completed in 1883, for banker Samuel Mayo Nickerson, the house turned museum explores the art, architecture and design of the Gilded Age period and is open for guided tours and special exhibits.

The Rookery Building was once one of the tallest buildings in the world. Designed by the firm of Burnham and Root, it was an engineering marvel at the time. Architect John Wellborn Root devised a “grillage foundation”—iron rails laid in a crisscross pattern and encased in concrete that supported the building’s immense weight.) The building’s Light Court lobby is open to the public or book a tour with The Frank Lloyd Wright Trust.

Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, Nebraska City

The Arbor Lodge Mansion at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park in Nebraska City is where Arbor Day was created.

The centerpiece of this 72-acre park is the Arbor Lodge Mansion, the Morton family’s original home. In the late 19th century, Nebraska’s largely treeless grasslands inspired Morton Salt Company founder J. Sterling Morton to advocate for mass afforestation, an effort that led to the first Arbor Day in 1872.

With 52 rooms and a vast collection of period artifacts, the mansion tells the story of how one family’s vision helped spark a nationwide conservation movement. The surrounding grounds feature an arboretum, Italian terraced garden, walking trails, a whispering bench, over 200 varieties of lilacs, a historic log cabin and a carriage house.

The Arcade and other venues, Cleveland, Ohio

The Arcade in Cleveland was America’s first indoor shopping center.

Cleveland was quietly forging its own empire of industry, innovation and wealth during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The city emerged as a powerhouse of steel, oil, shipping and finance — home to tycoons like John D. Rockefeller, Marcus Hanna, Amasa Stone and Samuel Mather.

Opened in 1890, at a cost of about $875,000, The Arcade was America’s first indoor shopping center, modeled after Milan’s Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. After its conversion into a boutique hotel and shops, it remains a lavish Gilded Age landmark open to the public.

Founded in 1872 by 81 Cleveland leaders, The Union Club of Cleveland became a hub for social, cultural and civic life. It boasted members like Presidents Grant, Hayes, Garfield, McKinley and Taft. It remains active today and periodically opens its historic Euclid Avenue quarters for events and tours.

Cleveland’s Euclid Avenue was known as Millionaires’ Row—the “Showplace of America”—lined with grand mansions of industrial titans. Rising taxes and development in the early 20th century pushed these families to the suburbs, and many homes were demolished by the 1950s. Today, only a few survive, including the Brush mansion at Cleveland State University, with markers helping visitors imagine the original boulevard.

The interior of the Wade Memorial Chapel at the Lake View Cemetery in Cleveland was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Established in 1869, Lake View Cemetery is one of the finest remaining examples of a Victorian garden cemetery in the United States. Its winding roadways, landscaped settings and ornate mausoleums complement its role as the final resting place of figures like Rockefeller, Garrett Morgan and Leonard Hanna. Its centerpiece is the James A. Garfield Memorial, in addition to the Wade Memorial Chapel. Built in 1901 to honor Jeptha H. Wade, philanthropist and founder of the Western Union Telegraph Company, the chapel’s interior was designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

The Black Point Estate and Gardens is a reminder of Lake Geneva’s relation to the Gilded Age.

This resort town in southern Wisconsin rose to prominence in the late 19th century as a Gilded Age lakeside retreat for magnates of business and industry in Chicago. The Wrigleys, Wackers, Chapins, Drakes and Schwinns are among many wealthy families who built lavish summer mansions on the lake.

More than 100 of these homes still remain and can be viewed on boat tours. A 21-mile walking path circles the lake, providing a closeup look these historic estates.

Another way to experience this period in Lake Geneva is at Black Point Estate and Gardens, built by Chicago beer baron Conrad Seipp in 1888 as a family getaway. Today’s guests arrive at Black Point by boat, just as the family did in a bygone era.

Jekyll Island, Georgia

The Jekyll Island Club Resort in Georgia is where wealthy families came during winter months.

Jekyll Island’s connection to the Gilded Age is as the location of the Jekyll Island Club, a winter retreat for some of America’s wealthiest families. Up until World War II, the island served as a haven for the likes of the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Pulitzers, who built lavish «cottages» there. Today, the property is known as the Jekyll Island Club Resort, which still holds these cottages.

Walk around the National Landmark Historic District or go on a Landmark Trolley Tour of this district that includes entry into a historic cottage.

Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, Palm Beach, Florida

The Henry Morrison Flagler Museum in Florida was the winter residence of the man who modernized Florida.

Henry Morrison Flagler, an industrialist and a founding partner of Standard Oil, is credited as “Father of Modern Florida” with making the Sunshine State a major destination. In the late 19th century, Flagler built resort hotels from Jacksonville to Miami and the Florida Keys, linked by his Florida East Coast Railway.

His namesake museum was originally built as Whitehall, a winter home for him and his wife, Mary Lily Kenan Flagler. The couple resided here from 1902 until Henry’s death in 1913.

Flagler’s influence can still be felt in downtown St. Augustine. A free Flagler’s Gilded Age Tour, led by period costumed figures, tells stories of when the city became a playground for the rich and famous.

St. Augustine is the location for his final resting place, the Flagler Mausoleum. Other related sights include the former Hotel Ponce de Leon, now Flagler College, and the former Alcazar Hotel that’s now Lightner Museum and St. Augustine City Hall. Learn more through Flagler College Legacy Tours.

Frick Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Clayton, the home of Henry Clay Frick, is included in the Frick Pittsburgh complex.

Pittsburgh during the Gilded Age was fueled by the industries of steel, coal and oil and the rise of industrialists Andrew Carnegie and Henry Clay Frick.

Frick Pittsburgh is a five-acre complex of museums and landscaped grounds, which includes Clayton, the home of Henry Clay Frick. Frick lived here from 1882 to 1905 and be sure to go on the museum tour, «Gilded, Not Golden,» Additionally, the Mansions on Fifth hotel and the Omni William Penn offer accommodations that serve as a testament to Gilded Age elegance.

Bramwell, West Virginia

The West Virginia town of Bramwell was once an enclave of coal barons who built elaborate mansions.

At the height of the coal boom, Bramwell was home to more than a dozen millionaires who constructed turreted Victorians, English brick manors and sprawling estates with ballrooms, leaded stained-glass windows, copper roofing and even early indoor vacuum systems.

Bramwell’s entire downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its brick-lined streets are a living museum, where preserved landmarks include the 1893 Bank of Bramwell, the 1889 Town Hall, and the old Bryant Pharmacy, now The Corner Shop, a beloved soda fountain serving milkshakes amid antique charm.

While many homes remain privately owned, guided mansion tours are offered twice yearly during the town’s spring and Christmas Heritage events. Bramwell is a stop along the National Coal Heritage Trail and includes an interpretive center sharing real stories of the region’s coal barons, company towns, and industrial legacy.

Other Gilded Age Sites In The U.S.

The Winchester Mystery House in San Jose is a unique and mysterious mansion, constructed by Sarah Pardee Winchester, the heiress to the Winchester Repeating Arms fortune. Building began in 1884 and continued for 38 years, until Sarah’s death in 1922. The mansion is famous for its bizarre, Victorian-style architecture, featuring strange design elements meant to appease restless spirits, believed to be the victims of the Winchester Rifle.

Other Notable Gilded Age Mansions
— Bellosguardo: A 24-acre Italianate villa in Santa Barbara, once the summer retreat of Huguette Clark, heiress to the Clark fortune. The villa is a symbol of the Gilded Age and was featured in the bestseller Empty Mansions.
— Hayes Mansion: A Mission Revival estate in San Jose, originally owned by the Hayes family, influential in agriculture, politics, and media in the region. Now part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, it remains a piece of the city’s rich history.

Plan Your Visit to the Winchester Mystery House
If you’re looking for a fascinating vacation, book a tour of the Winchester Mystery House. Explore the beautiful yet bizarre mansion with its strange design, and uncover its hidden secrets on a daily guided tour. Don’t miss out on this captivating experience in San Jose!