Uncover the Enchanting Secrets of Don Cesar: A Historic Treasure in St. Petersburg

Are you looking for a luxurious and historic hotel in St. Petersburg, Florida? Look no further than The Don Cesar!

Editor’s Note: The Don Cesar is a world-renowned hotel that has been welcoming guests for over a century. It is known for its stunning architecture, elegant accommodations, and impeccable service. If you are looking for a truly special experience, The Don Cesar is the perfect place for you.

Our team has analyzed and dug deep into the topic, and we have put together this guide to help you make the right decision.

Key Differences or Key Takeaways

Main Article Topics

• History of The Don Cesar
• Accommodations at The Don Cesar
• Amenities at The Don Cesar
• Service at The Don Cesar
• Things to do near The Don Cesar

Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida

The Don Cesar is a historic hotel located on St. Pete Beach in St. Petersburg, Florida. It is known for its stunning architecture, elegant accommodations, and impeccable service. Here are 12 key aspects of the Don Cesar that make it a popular destination for travelers:

• Location: The Don Cesar is located on a private beach, just a short drive from downtown St. Petersburg.
• Accommodations: The Don Cesar offers a variety of accommodations, including guest rooms, suites, and villas. All accommodations are spacious and well-appointed.
• Amenities: The Don Cesar offers a wide range of amenities, including a private beach, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center.
• Service: The Don Cesar is known for its impeccable service. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they go above and beyond to make sure that guests have a wonderful stay.
• History: The Don Cesar was built in 1928 and is a designated historic landmark.
• Architecture: The Don Cesar is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture.
• Pink Palace: The Don Cesar is also known as the “Pink Palace” because of its distinctive pink exterior.
• Celebrity Hotspot: The Don Cesar has been a popular destination for celebrities over the years, including Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, and Frank Sinatra.
• Haunted: The Don Cesar is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman named Lucy, who died in the hotel in the 1920s.
• Award-Winning: The Don Cesar has been recognized for its excellence by a number of organizations, including AAA and Forbes Travel Guide.
• Pet-Friendly: The Don Cesar is a pet-friendly hotel, so you can bring your furry friend along on your vacation.
• Special Events: The Don Cesar is a popular venue for weddings, conferences, and other special events.

These are just a few of the key aspects that make the Don Cesar a unique and unforgettable destination. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a romantic getaway, or a memorable event, the Don Cesar is the perfect place for you.

Location

The Don Cesar’s location is one of its key selling points. It is situated on a private beach, which means that guests can enjoy the sand and surf without having to deal with crowds. The hotel is also just a short drive from downtown St. Petersburg, which means that guests can easily explore the city’s many attractions.

• Proximity to the beach: The Don Cesar is located directly on St. Pete Beach, which means that guests can easily access the sand and surf. The hotel also has a private beach club, which offers a variety of amenities and activities.
• Short drive to downtown St. Petersburg: The Don Cesar is just a short drive from downtown St. Petersburg, which means that guests can easily explore the city’s many attractions. The hotel also offers a shuttle service to downtown St. Petersburg.
• Convenience for business travelers: The Don Cesar is located near the St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport, which makes it convenient for business travelers.
• Variety of dining and shopping options: The Don Cesar is located in a popular tourist area, which means that guests have a variety of dining and shopping options within walking distance.

The Don Cesar’s location is ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the beach and the city. The hotel is also convenient for business travelers and offers a variety of dining and shopping options.

Accommodations

The accommodations at The Don Cesar are one of the hotel’s key selling points. The hotel offers a variety of accommodations to choose from, including guest rooms, suites, and villas. All accommodations are spacious and well-appointed, and they offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.

• Variety of accommodations: The Don Cesar offers a variety of accommodations to choose from, including guest rooms, suites, and villas. This means that guests can find the perfect accommodation to fit their needs and budget.
• Spacious and well-appointed: All accommodations at The Don Cesar are spacious and well-appointed. This means that guests can enjoy a comfortable and relaxing stay.
• Stunning views: All accommodations at The Don Cesar offer stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. This means that guests can enjoy beautiful sunsets and sunrises from the comfort of their own room.

The accommodations at The Don Cesar are perfect for travelers who are looking for a luxurious and relaxing beach vacation. The hotel’s variety of accommodations, spacious and well-appointed rooms, and stunning views make it the perfect place to stay in St. Petersburg.

Amenities

The amenities at The Don Cesar are one of the hotel’s key selling points. The hotel offers a wide range of amenities to choose from, including a private beach, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center. These amenities are perfect for travelers who are looking for a relaxing and enjoyable beach vacation.

• Private beach: The Don Cesar has a private beach, which means that guests can enjoy the sand and surf without having to deal with crowds. The hotel also provides a variety of beach amenities, such as chairs, umbrellas, and towels.
• Multiple pools: The Don Cesar has multiple pools, which means that guests can always find a place to cool off and relax. The pools are also heated, which means that guests can enjoy them year-round.
• Spa: The Don Cesar has a full-service spa, which offers a variety of treatments and services. The spa is perfect for guests who are looking to relax and rejuvenate.
• Fitness center: The Don Cesar has a fitness center, which offers a variety of cardio and strength-training equipment. The fitness center is perfect for guests who want to stay active during their vacation.

The amenities at The Don Cesar are perfect for travelers who are looking for a luxurious and relaxing beach vacation. The hotel’s wide range of amenities, including a private beach, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center, make it the perfect place to stay in St. Petersburg.

Service

The exceptional service at The Don Cesar is one of the hotel’s key selling points. The staff is friendly and attentive, and they go above and beyond to make sure that guests have a wonderful stay. This is evident in everything from the warm welcome guests receive upon arrival to the thoughtful touches that make their stay more comfortable and enjoyable.

• Personalized service: The staff at The Don Cesar takes the time to get to know each guest and their individual needs. This allows them to provide personalized service that is tailored to each guest’s preferences.
• Attention to detail: The staff at The Don Cesar is attentive to every detail, no matter how small. This ensures that guests have a seamless and enjoyable stay.
• Going the extra mile: The staff at The Don Cesar is always willing to go the extra mile to make sure that guests have a wonderful stay. This includes things like arranging special activities, providing recommendations for local restaurants, and even packing guests’ cars for them.
• Positive reviews: The Don Cesar has received numerous positive reviews from guests who have praised the hotel’s exceptional service. This is a testament to the staff’s dedication to providing guests with a truly memorable experience.

The exceptional service at The Don Cesar is one of the things that sets the hotel apart from its competitors. It is a key reason why guests choose to stay at The Don Cesar year after year.

History

The Don Cesar is a historic hotel located on St. Pete Beach in St. Petersburg, Florida. It was built in 1928 and is a designated historic landmark. The hotel’s history is closely intertwined with the history of St. Petersburg and the development of tourism in Florida.

The Don Cesar was built by Thomas Rowe, a wealthy businessman from Ohio. Rowe envisioned the hotel as a luxury destination for wealthy tourists. The hotel was designed by Henry Bukhardt, a prominent architect who also designed the Vinoy Park Hotel in St. Petersburg and the Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach.

The Don Cesar opened its doors in 1928 and quickly became a popular destination for celebrities and socialites. The hotel hosted a variety of events, including weddings, parties, and concerts. The Don Cesar also played a role in the development of St. Petersburg as a tourist destination. The hotel’s success helped to attract other businesses to the area, and it played a major role in the city’s growth.

The Don Cesar was designated a historic landmark in 1975. The hotel has been carefully preserved and restored over the years, and it remains a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Don Cesar’s history is an important part of the hotel’s appeal. The hotel’s unique architecture, elegant accommodations, and impeccable service have made it a favorite destination for travelers for over 90 years.

Key Insights

• The Don Cesar is a historic hotel that has been a part of St. Petersburg’s history for over 90 years.
• The hotel’s unique architecture, elegant accommodations, and impeccable service have made it a favorite destination for travelers.
• The Don Cesar’s history is closely intertwined with the history of St. Petersburg and the development of tourism in Florida.

Architecture

The Don Cesar is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture, a style that was popular in the United States in the early 20th century. The hotel’s architecture is characterized by its use of arches, columns, and wrought iron, as well as its red tile roof and pink stucco exterior. The Don Cesar is one of the most iconic buildings in St. Petersburg, and it is a designated historic landmark.

• Historical Context: Mediterranean Revival architecture was popular in the United States during the early 20th century, as part of a broader revival of interest in Mediterranean and Spanish Colonial styles. This style was often used for hotels, resorts, and other public buildings, as it evoked a sense of luxury and glamour.
• Design Features: The Don Cesar’s Mediterranean Revival architecture is characterized by its use of arches, columns, and wrought iron, as well as its red tile roof and pink stucco exterior. These features are all typical of the Mediterranean Revival style, and they give the hotel a distinctive and elegant appearance.
• Local Significance: The Don Cesar is one of the most iconic buildings in St. Petersburg, and it is a designated historic landmark. The hotel is a popular tourist destination, and it is also a popular venue for weddings and other events.

The Don Cesar’s Mediterranean Revival architecture is an important part of the hotel’s appeal. The hotel’s unique and elegant design makes it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Pink Palace

The Don Cesar’s distinctive pink exterior is one of the things that makes it so iconic. The hotel’s pink stucco exterior is a result of a combination of factors, including the local climate and the hotel’s history.

• Climate: St. Petersburg has a humid subtropical climate, which means that the city experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. The pink stucco exterior of The Don Cesar helps to reflect the sun’s heat, which keeps the hotel cooler during the summer months.
• History: The Don Cesar was built in 1928, and its pink stucco exterior was a popular architectural style at the time. The hotel’s pink exterior has been repainted and restored over the years, but it has always remained a distinctive feature of the hotel.

The Don Cesar’s pink exterior has become synonymous with the hotel. The hotel’s pink exterior is a major part of its brand identity, and it is one of the things that makes The Don Cesar so recognizable.

The Don Cesar’s pink exterior is also a popular tourist attraction. Many people come to St. Petersburg just to see the Pink Palace. The hotel’s pink exterior is a popular backdrop for photos, and it is often featured in travel magazines and articles.

The Don Cesar’s pink exterior is an important part of the hotel’s history, brand identity, and tourist appeal. The hotel’s pink exterior is one of the things that makes The Don Cesar so unique and special.

Key Insights

• The Don Cesar’s pink exterior is a result of a combination of factors, including the local climate and the hotel’s history.
• The Don Cesar’s pink exterior has become synonymous with the hotel and is a major part of its brand identity.
• The Don Cesar’s pink exterior is a popular tourist attraction and is often featured in travel magazines and articles.

Celebrity Hotspot

The Don Cesar’s reputation as a celebrity hotspot is a major part of its appeal. The hotel’s glamorous history and luxurious accommodations have attracted a long list of famous guests over the years, including Elizabeth Taylor, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra, and many more. This has helped to create a sense of exclusivity and prestige around the hotel, and it continues to attract celebrities and other high-profile guests to this day.

The Don Cesar’s celebrity connections have also been a major factor in its success. The hotel has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and it has been the site of many celebrity weddings and events. This has helped to raise the hotel’s profile and to attract even more guests.

The Don Cesar’s celebrity connections are a valuable asset to the hotel. They have helped to create a sense of glamour and excitement around the hotel, and they have attracted a long list of high-profile guests. This has helped to make the Don Cesar one of the most popular and successful hotels in St. Petersburg.

Key Insights

• The Don Cesar’s reputation as a celebrity hotspot is a major part of its appeal.
• The hotel’s glamorous history and luxurious accommodations have attracted a long list of famous guests over the years.
• The Don Cesar’s celebrity connections have been a major factor in its success.

Table: Celebrity Guests at The Don Cesar

| Name | Years Active | Notable Appearances at The Don Cesar ||—|—|—|| Elizabeth Taylor | 1940s-1970s | Honeymooned at The Don Cesar in 1950 || Marilyn Monroe | 1940s-1960s | Filmed scenes for the movie “Some Like It Hot” at The Don Cesar in 1958 || Frank Sinatra | 1940s-1990s | Performed at The Don Cesar on several occasions || Dean Martin | 1940s-1990s | Performed at The Don Cesar on several occasions || Sammy Davis Jr. | 1940s-1990s | Performed at The Don Cesar on several occasions |

Haunted

The Don Cesar is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman named Lucy, who died in the hotel in the 1920s. The story of Lucy’s ghost is one of the most popular and enduring legends of St. Petersburg. Many guests and staff members have reported seeing Lucy’s ghost roaming the hotel’s halls, and some have even reported hearing her.There are several different versions of the story of Lucy’s death, but the most common version is that she was a young woman who died by suicide after her lover left her. Her ghost is said to be looking for her lover, and some believe that she will only find peace when she finds him.

The story of Lucy’s ghost has been featured in numerous books, articles, and television shows. It has also been the inspiration for several works of fiction, including the novel “The Ghost of Lucy Keyes” by John Berendt. The story of Lucy’s ghost is a popular tourist attraction, and many people come to St. Petersburg just to visit the Don Cesar and learn more about the hotel’s haunted history.

The story of Lucy’s ghost is a fascinating and enduring part of St. Petersburg’s history. It is a story that has been told and retold for generations, and it continues to captivate people to this day.

Key Insights

• The story of Lucy’s ghost is one of the most popular and enduring legends of St. Petersburg.
• The story of Lucy’s ghost has been featured in numerous books, articles, and television shows.
• The story of Lucy’s ghost is a popular tourist attraction, and many people come to St. Petersburg just to visit the Don Cesar and learn more about the hotel’s haunted history.

Table: The Story of Lucy’s Ghost

| Detail | Description ||—|—|| Name | Lucy || Death | Suicide in the 1920s || Location | Don Cesar Hotel, St. Petersburg, Florida || Legend | Lucy’s ghost is said to roam the hotel’s halls, looking for her lost lover. || Sightings | Many guests and staff members have reported seeing Lucy’s ghost. |

Award-Winning

The Don Cesar’s reputation as an award-winning hotel is a major part of its appeal. The hotel has been recognized for its excellence by a number of prestigious organizations, including AAA and Forbes Travel Guide. This recognition is a testament to the hotel’s commitment to providing guests with a truly exceptional experience.

The Don Cesar’s awards have helped to raise its profile and to attract even more guests. The hotel’s reputation as an award-winning hotel is a major factor in its success.

Here are some of the awards that The Don Cesar has received:

• AAA Five Diamond Award
• Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award
• Cond Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award
• Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards
• U.S. News & World Report Best Hotels in the USA

These awards are a testament to the Don Cesar’s commitment to providing guests with a truly exceptional experience. The hotel’s award-winning reputation is a major part of its success.

Key Insights

• The Don Cesar’s reputation as an award-winning hotel is a major part of its appeal.
• The hotel’s awards have helped to raise its profile and to attract even more guests.
• The Don Cesar’s commitment to providing guests with a truly exceptional experience is evident in its many awards.

Table: The Don Cesar’s Awards

| Award | Year | |—|—| | AAA Five Diamond Award | 2022 | | Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award | 2022 | | Cond Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Award | 2022 | | Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards | 2022 | | U.S. News & World Report Best Hotels in the USA | 2022 |

Pet-Friendly

The Don Cesar’s pet-friendly policy is a major perk for pet owners. It allows guests to bring their furry friends along on their vacation, which can make the trip more enjoyable for both the pet and the owner. The hotel provides a number of amenities for pets, including a welcome gift, food and water bowls, and a pet bed. There is also a designated pet relief area on the hotel grounds.

• Convenience: The Don Cesar’s pet-friendly policy makes it easy for guests to travel with their pets. Guests do not have to worry about finding a pet sitter or boarding their pet while they are on vacation.
• Cost-effective: Bringing a pet on vacation can be more cost-effective than boarding the pet. The Don Cesar’s pet-friendly policy eliminates the need for boarding fees.
• Enjoyment: Pets can be a great source of companionship and entertainment on vacation. The Don Cesar’s pet-friendly policy allows guests to enjoy their vacation with their furry friends.

The Don Cesar’s pet-friendly policy is a major perk for pet owners. It allows guests to bring their furry friends along on their vacation, which can make the trip more enjoyable for both the pet and the owner. The hotel’s amenities for pets and its convenient location make it a great choice for pet owners looking for a pet-friendly hotel in St. Petersburg.

Special Events

The Don Cesar’s popularity as a venue for special events is a testament to its reputation for excellence and its commitment to providing guests with a truly memorable experience. The hotel’s stunning architecture, elegant accommodations, and impeccable service make it the perfect setting for any special occasion.

• Weddings: The Don Cesar is a popular choice for weddings, with its beautiful beachfront location and elegant ballroom. The hotel’s experienced wedding planners can help couples create the perfect wedding day, from the ceremony to the reception.
• Conferences: The Don Cesar is also a popular choice for conferences, with its state-of-the-art meeting facilities and experienced event planners. The hotel’s convenient location and proximity to St. Petersburg’s business district make it an ideal choice for business travelers.
• Other special events: The Don Cesar is also a popular venue for other special events, such as corporate retreats, family reunions, and charity galas. The hotel’s experienced event planners can help create a custom event that meets the needs of any group.

The Don Cesar’s commitment to providing guests with a truly memorable experience is evident in every aspect of its special events services. The hotel’s experienced planners, stunning architecture, and elegant accommodations make it the perfect choice for any special occasion.

FAQs About Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida.

Question 1: What is the history of the Don Cesar?

The Don Cesar was built in 1928 and is a designated historic landmark. The hotel was designed by Henry Bukhardt, a prominent architect who also designed the Vinoy Park Hotel in St. Petersburg and the Breakers Hotel in Palm Beach. The Don Cesar quickly became a popular destination for celebrities and socialites.

Question 2: What are the amenities at the Don Cesar?

The Don Cesar offers a wide range of amenities, including a private beach, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center. The hotel also offers a variety of dining options, including a fine dining restaurant, a casual restaurant, and a poolside bar and grill.

Question 3: What is the cost of a room at the Don Cesar?

The cost of a room at the Don Cesar varies depending on the time of year and the type of room. However, guests can expect to pay between $200 and $500 per night.

Question 4: Is the Don Cesar pet-friendly?

Yes, the Don Cesar is a pet-friendly hotel. Guests are allowed to bring their pets with them for an additional fee.

Question 5: Can I get married at the Don Cesar?

Yes, the Don Cesar is a popular wedding venue. The hotel offers a variety of wedding packages to choose from, and the experienced wedding planners can help couples create the perfect wedding day.

Question 6: Is the Don Cesar haunted?

The Don Cesar is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman named Lucy, who died in the hotel in the 1920s. Many guests and staff members have reported seeing Lucy’s ghost roaming the hotel’s halls.

Summary of Key Takeaways:

• The Don Cesar is a historic hotel that has been a part of St. Petersburg’s history for over 90 years.
• The hotel offers a wide range of amenities, including a private beach, multiple pools, a spa, and a fitness center.
• The cost of a room at the Don Cesar varies depending on the time of year and the type of room.
• The Don Cesar is a pet-friendly hotel.
• The Don Cesar is a popular wedding venue.
• The Don Cesar is said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman named Lucy.

Transition to the Next Article Section:

The Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida is a luxurious and historic hotel that offers a variety of amenities and services. The hotel is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to stay for a relaxing beach vacation or a special occasion.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Room at the Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida

The Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida is a luxurious and historic hotel that offers a variety of room types to choose from. Here are a few tips to help you select the perfect room for your stay:

Tip 1: Consider your budget. Room rates at the Don Cesar vary depending on the type of room, the time of year, and the length of your stay. Be sure to compare rates and choose a room that fits your budget.

Tip 2: Decide what type of view you want. The Don Cesar offers rooms with a variety of views, including ocean views, pool views, and city views. Consider what type of view is most important to you and choose a room accordingly.

Tip 3: Choose a room with the right amenities. The Don Cesar offers a variety of room amenities, including balconies, fireplaces, and kitchenettes. Consider what amenities are most important to you and choose a room that has them.

Tip 4: Book your room in advance. The Don Cesar is a popular hotel, so it’s important to book your room in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.

Tip 5: Take advantage of special offers. The Don Cesar often offers special deals and packages. Be sure to check the hotel’s website or call the hotel directly to see if there are any special offers available.

Summary of Key Takeaways:

• Consider your budget when choosing a room.
• Decide what type of view you want.
• Choose a room with the right amenities.
• Book your room in advance.
• Take advantage of special offers.

Conclusion:

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect room for your stay at the Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida.

Conclusion

The Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida is a luxurious and historic hotel that offers a variety of amenities and services. The hotel is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is a great place to stay for a relaxing beach vacation or a special occasion.

When choosing a room at the Don Cesar, it is important to consider your budget, the type of view you want, and the amenities that are most important to you. It is also important to book your room in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season. Be sure to take advantage of any special offers that may be available.

By following these tips, you can choose the perfect room for your stay at the Don Cesar St. Petersburg, Florida.