Rowland House

For those seeking an unforgettable escape in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, Rowland House stands as a beacon of elegance and charm within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category. More than just a hotel, Rowland House is one of the distinct properties that comprise the acclaimed Inns of Aurora, offering a curated and deeply personalized luxury experience. Located at 453 Main St, Aurora, NY 13026, USA, and reachable at (315) 364-8888 or +1 315-364-8888, this historic mansion provides an intimate and refined stay, setting it apart from conventional accommodations.

The environment surrounding Rowland House is nothing short of idyllic. Perched gracefully on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake, it offers magnificent, uninterrupted lake views that provide a serene and captivating backdrop for any stay. The property itself is enveloped by ancient trees, including the namesake sycamores, and features beautifully manicured grounds that include a historic Greek temple and a spectacular two-story boathouse. Aurora, a charming and historically rich village, is a National Historic District, ensuring that guests are immersed in a picturesque setting. The town offers a delightful array of local attractions, including quaint shops, art galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. The broader Finger Lakes region is renowned for its world-class wineries, making it an ideal destination for wine tasting tours. While traveling to Aurora from areas like New York City or Long Island can be a drive of 6 to 8 hours, guests consistently remark that the journey, which includes beautiful scenery and mountain views, is "definitely worth the time" for the "wonderful, extremely comfortable stay" that awaits. The tranquil lakeside breeze, especially in late summer/early fall, creates a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, perfect for outdoor events and relaxation.

The services at Rowland House are characterized by their attentive, personalized, and anticipatory nature. As part of the Inns of Aurora collection, guests benefit from a unified approach to hospitality that prioritizes comfort and satisfaction. Reviews consistently highlight the "fantastic service" and the "sweetest" and "amazing" staff, such as Renee and Ben mentioned by satisfied guests, who go "above and beyond." Each of the "Houses (Hotels)" within the Inns of Aurora portfolio is designed to have an individual dedicated to taking care of all guest needs, ensuring a highly responsive and personalized experience. This includes promptly addressing any requests, such as replacing missing items or rectifying issues with room amenities, as noted in a customer review. Complimentary offerings enhance the stay significantly, including morning coffee and delicious homemade granola bars, and a delightful evening wine and cheese hour featuring local wines. Guests also receive s'mores kits for enjoying by the lakeside fire pit. The Inns of Aurora also offer a variety of complimentary daily activities, such as yoga classes, and provide access to equipment like bicycles, kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards during the summer months, fostering engagement and recreation. The resort also offers a convenient laundry service for guests.

The features of Rowland House blend historical grandeur with contemporary luxury. Built in 1903 for Alonzo Morgan Zabriskie, this stately guesthouse boasts ten chic guest rooms, each uniquely designed and meticulously restored to its original beauty while incorporating modern amenities. The rooms, often described as "extremely clean" and "beautiful," are adorned with vibrant color schemes, original modern art, and luxurious Frette linens on comfortable king-size beds. Many rooms offer stunning lake views, providing a constant connection to the picturesque surroundings. Each private marble bath features heated floors, a walk-in shower, plush robes, and spa-quality Lather bath products, ensuring a pampering experience. High-tech amenities include high-speed wireless internet, bedside charging ports, and flat-screen TVs with streaming services. For convenience, a mini-fridge and complimentary bottled water are standard in each room. A distinctive feature of Rowland House is its entire third floor, which comprises four "Whimsy" guest rooms and a private lounge, all playfully decorated with the iconic, pattern-rich designs of MacKenzie-Childs, a local artisan company founded by Pleasant T. Rowland, the alumna and philanthropist behind the Inns of Aurora's restoration. Beyond the private accommodations, Rowland House offers expansive common areas, including an expansive porch with rocking chairs perfect for sunset viewing, twin parlors, a library, and a private dining room, all featuring restored and working fireplaces and original architectural details. An executive boardroom, housed in the home's original billiard room, provides a state-of-the-art location for meetings and small corporate retreats, accommodating up to 15 guests. Guests of Rowland House also have access to the wider amenities of the Inns of Aurora, including the renowned 1833 Kitchen & Bar at the Aurora Inn (where "dinner was spectacular"), and the casual Fargo Bar & Grill. The comprehensive Spa at the Inns of Aurora, located on a hill overlooking Cayuga Lake, offers a farm-inspired campus with hydrotherapy circuits, indoor and outdoor pools, and a range of treatments from Rasa Spa. Guest-only waterfront access, a fitness center at the Schoolhouse, and a 3.5-mile nature trail further enhance the stay.

Promotional information for Rowland House often highlights its unique blend of historic charm and luxurious modern amenities, positioning it as an ideal destination for various types of stays. Its picturesque setting and elegant spaces make it a prime location for weddings and social gatherings, as enthusiastically endorsed by a customer who had a wedding there and another who hoped to have theirs. The Inns of Aurora offer comprehensive wedding packages that include dedicated getting-ready spaces, lakeside tented ceremonies and receptions, fire pits, and all necessary classic setup items like tables, chairs, linens, and china. They also provide various venues, including Rowland House itself, for rehearsal dinners and welcome parties, making it a convenient "all-in-one spot" for wedding events. For individuals or couples seeking a romantic getaway, the serene lake views, luxurious rooms, and fine dining experiences are frequently promoted. The affiliation with MacKenzie-Childs provides a unique draw, with special "Whimsy" rooms offering a distinct design experience. While specific discounts or seasonal packages would require direct inquiry, properties like Rowland House often offer promotions around specific themes such as "Winery Weekend" packages, "Spa Retreats," or "Culinary Experiences" that leverage the region's attractions. Given the glowing reviews and the integrated resort experience offered by the Inns of Aurora, prospective guests are encouraged to contact Rowland House directly at (315) 364-8888 or +1 315-364-8888 to inquire about current promotions, availability, and to tailor a stay that perfectly suits their needs, whether it's a quick trip or a longer, cherished vacation.