There’s just something about staying in a historic hotel that feeds the soul. It’s like you can feel the energy and excitement from all the previous guests over the years. And when it’s decorated with beautiful antiques, the warmth of the ages radiates off them as well.
The 2025 OWAA (Outdoor Writers Association of America) Conference was held in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and we were excited when we learned that the venue was the stunning The Read House.
Established in 1872, it is billed as the “longest continuously operating hotel in the southeast.” In 2018, it was painstakingly remodeled with a gorgeous 1920s design and theme. From the moment we pulled up in front of the hotel with the valet service waiting, we truly felt like we were stepping back in time. It was such a luxury to take advantage of the service, with the uniformed and friendly staff.
Walking through the doors, we were immediately “wowed.” Deep, rich, warm woods everywhere, elegant décor, intricate and massive sparkling chandeliers. We took a minute to soak it all in. There was simply no choice; we were stopped in our tracks because it was so stunning. Finally, we got our feet moving and got checked in.
Waiting at the elevator to go up to our room, we noticed the old-fashioned dial showing the movement of the elevator at each floor. I thought it was so cute, I had to make sure I watched it every time we went back up to our room.
Stepping off the elevator and heading down the hall to our room was another journey through time. The elegant décor, old photos, wallpaper, and 1920s jazz music playing continued the timeless theme.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from our room, the pictures online made it look a bit small. Boy, was I wrong, it was a huge room! Bright and spacious, with a beautiful king bed, a chair for David to sit in, and a chair with ottoman for me to get comfortable. But the room is nothing compared to the bathroom! I laughed and said we could hold a dance in there. Even the décor in there was retro and pristine.
All of our workshops were held in the hotel conference rooms. Each room was stunning on its own, with elegant wallpaper with silver accents and more elaborate chandeliers. It was fun to learn more about outdoor writing in this luxurious indoor setting.
There are several choices of places to eat in the hotel, but we found ourselves eating at the “Bar & Billiards Room” a few times because we enjoyed the retro, speakeasy theme, the comfortable setting, the variety of food available, and the friendly service.
We felt pampered the whole time we were at this luxurious hotel. It was relaxing to know our car was safe in the valet lot, and the valet staff were so fun to talk to. All the staff at the hotel were wonderful. The location was also perfect as a base camp to go out and see other sights in the area as well.
Whenever you can, stay in a historic hotel. And if you’re ever in Chattanooga, make sure you take the opportunity to stay at the elegant and historic The Read House.
The Read House is located at 107 W MLK Blvd., Chattanooga TN 37402.
Leave a comment