The Vinoy Resort and Golf Club, an iconic landmark in St. Petersburg, Florida, has emerged from a meticulous renovation, reaffirming its status as a premier luxury destination. Nestled on the sparkling waterfront of Tampa Bay in downtown St. Pete, The Vinoy St Pete, now part of Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection Hotels, presents a refreshed experience that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern luxury. This treasured resort, the sole Autograph Collection property in St. Pete, invites guests to immerse themselves in its signature pink façade and indulge in amenities worthy of an unforgettable vacation or staycation.
A Downtown Icon Reimagined: The Vinoy Resort
The extensive renovation, commenced in 2021, was driven by a vision to not just update, but to restore The Vinoy St Pete to its original splendor. The goal was to preserve its distinctive Mediterranean Revival style, a testament to its glamorous heritage that stretches back almost a century. The revitalized resort showcases thoughtful enhancements throughout, from the legendary Veranda, a beloved social hub, to a completely reimagined arrival court and grand lobby that sets a tone of sophisticated welcome. Guest rooms, ballrooms, and meeting spaces have been meticulously refurbished, while exciting new dining experiences and a state-of-the-art spa and wellness area have been introduced, adding layers of contemporary luxury to this historic gem.
Restoring a Legacy: The Renovation Details
The renovation project touched every facet of The Vinoy St Pete. The iconic Veranda has been carefully updated, maintaining its charm while enhancing its functionality. The arrival experience has been elevated with a redesigned court leading into the grand lobby, where guests are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance. Inside, refurbished guest rooms offer a sanctuary of comfort and style, while the ballrooms and meeting spaces have been modernized to accommodate events of all scales with grace and sophistication. The introduction of new dining venues and a cutting-edge spa further enriches the guest experience, ensuring The Vinoy St Pete remains at the forefront of luxury hospitality.
Honoring History: The Vinoy’s Storied Past
To fully appreciate the present-day allure of The Vinoy St Pete, understanding its past is essential. This iconic hotel, a proud member of Historic Hotels of America, was rightfully added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978. Since its grand opening on New Year’s Eve in 1925, The Vinoy has been a beacon of glamour and sophistication, attracting a distinguished clientele. Throughout its illustrious history, The Vinoy has played host to presidents, A-list celebrities, and renowned athletes, solidifying its place in the annals of American hospitality. This rich heritage is not just preserved; it’s celebrated and woven into the very fabric of the modern Vinoy experience.
Alt text: Guests relaxing on the iconic Veranda of The Vinoy St Pete, enjoying the refreshed outdoor space with rocking chairs.
Indulge in Luxury Amenities at The Vinoy St Pete
Stepping into the grand lobby of The Vinoy St Pete is like stepping back in time, yet with a contemporary twist. The original cypress wood-beam ceilings and meticulously restored ceramic tiles speak to the hotel’s heritage, while new chandeliers and modern design elements introduce a fresh, vibrant energy. A highlight is the newly refined Grand Ballroom, home to a breathtaking blown-glass chandelier by the legendary Dale Chihuly, now restored to its former glory, casting a shimmering glow over elegant events.
Luxurious Accommodations: Guest Rooms and Suites
The revitalized guest rooms and suites at The Vinoy St Pete provide a tranquil escape. Each room is thoughtfully designed with custom paintings adorning the walls and coastal-inspired carpets that evoke the serene meeting point of sand and sea. Luxury is paramount, with most bathrooms featuring marble walk-in showers. Practical amenities like coffee stations and elegant dressing areas enhance the comfort and convenience of each guest room, ensuring a stay that is both relaxing and indulgent.
Alt text: A beautifully renovated guest room at The Vinoy St Pete showcasing coastal-inspired décor and a comfortable king-size bed.
Exceptional Dining: A Culinary Journey at The Vinoy
Dining at The Vinoy St Pete is a culinary adventure, offering a diverse range of options to satisfy every palate. Start your day at Lottie, the charming lobby patisserie, with freshly brewed coffee and house-made French pastries, or return later for delectable macarons and gelato. The rejuvenated Veranda provides the perfect setting for enjoying Mediterranean-inspired dishes and expertly crafted cocktails with stunning bay views. Paul’s Landing, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, combines local seafood with international flavors in a vibrant setting overlooking the marina. For poolside dining, Parasol offers flavorful Latin American cuisine and specialty cocktails with panoramic waterfront vistas. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy American clubhouse favorites at the Vinoy Club Grill, set against the backdrop of the picturesque golf course. Anticipation is building for the early 2025 debut of Elliott Aster, a sophisticated steak and seafood restaurant by Michelin-starred Chef Lee Wolen, promising an elevated dining experience in an elegant setting, complete with a waterfront patio for aperitifs and cocktails. For ultimate convenience, an extensive in-room dining menu featuring elevated fare is available for breakfast and dinner.
Relaxation and Recreation: Spa, Golf, and More
Beyond dining, The Vinoy St Pete offers a wealth of amenities for relaxation and recreation. The serene pool deck, adorned with lush greenery and private cabanas, is an ideal spot for sunbathing and unwinding. Guests can indulge in retail therapy at Sunni Spencer, a popular Tampa Bay boutique, or experience personalized styling services at The Saks Fifth Avenue Club St. Petersburg. For ultimate relaxation, the full-service Vinoy Spa provides a tranquil oasis with holistic treatments inspired by the therapeutic qualities of the ocean. Fitness enthusiasts can maintain their routines at the well-equipped fitness center, featuring Peloton bikes, participate in daily group fitness classes, enjoy a game on the tennis courts, or play a round on the 18-hole championship golf course.
Alt text: Aerial view of the luxurious pool area at The Vinoy St Pete, featuring cabanas, lounge chairs, and lush landscaping.
Explore St. Pete from The Vinoy’s Prime Location
The Vinoy St Pete boasts a prime location fronting Vinoy Park along Tampa Bay, offering breathtaking waterfront views and unparalleled walkability to downtown St. Pete’s attractions.
Waterfront Views and City Access
The hotel’s location directly on Vinoy Park and Tampa Bay provides stunning views and immediate access to waterfront activities. The marina adjacent to The Vinoy St Pete serves as a gateway to adventures on Tampa Bay, with local charters offering fishing trips, sunset cruises, and private yacht excursions.
Discovering Downtown St. Pete
Stepping outside The Vinoy St Pete places guests at the heart of downtown St. Pete. World-class museums, including the renowned Dalí Museum and the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, are just a short stroll away. The vibrant St. Pete Pier District, along with numerous craft breweries and a diverse array of restaurants, are easily accessible, making The Vinoy the perfect base for exploring the cultural and culinary delights of St. Petersburg.
Conclusion
The Vinoy St Pete stands as a testament to timeless elegance and modern luxury. Its meticulous renovation has honored its storied past while creating an exceptional contemporary experience for discerning travelers. With its prime waterfront location, diverse dining options, luxurious amenities, and rich history, The Vinoy St Pete is more than just a hotel; it’s a destination in itself, inviting guests to discover the magic of St. Petersburg in unparalleled style and comfort.
