With all the talk about the revitalization of Staten Island’s North Shore, I am so excited to share with you a unique find I came across while doing some research about St. George. Just two blocks from the Staten Island Ferry terminal lies one of the few bed and breakfasts on Staten Island. What a wonderful and comforting alternative to staying in a hotel- right here in the heart of St. George!
Fort Place Bed and Breakfast adds a bit more charm to a neighborhood that is already bursting with history, culture and excitement. Built in 1864, this old Victorian Era home is adorned with art-deco furniture, fireplaces, old furnishing, beautiful artwork and individually finished rooms. It became a bed and breakfast only seven years ago, but the home itself has a story of its own. Its previous owner lived in the home for decades, and is rumored to have been acquaintances with famous art collector, Peggy Guggenheim, who was spotted at the location on several occasions.
One true advantage to staying in a bed and breakfast is that the hospitality is second to none. Opening one’s home to travelers is a United States custom that dates back to the earliest days of Colonial America. Before hotels became more common, travelers often relied on the kindness of strangers to provide a bed for the night.
The owner of this bed and breakfast has successfully recreated this historical tradition, by turning an old property into a guesthouse that is as welcoming and comfortable as it is historic. The warm and inviting atmosphere conveyed by Fort Place provides guests with that “at-home” feeling that is so often missing from a stopover at a hotel. Visitors who have stayed here rave about the beauty of the rooms and the friendliness of the staff.
I can think of so many reasons why this bed and breakfast is such a wonderful find. Conveniently located near the ferry and within walking distance of the neighborhood’s many attractions, its location in downtown Staten Island can’t be more ideal for visitors. Nearby Snug Harbor Cultural Center is just a car ride away, and some of the borough’s most unique restaurants and stores are close at hand.
For travelers visiting New York City, Fort Place puts the city at your fingertips, allowing quick access to the attractions of Manhattan while also providing a peaceful and restful night in the suburbs. You certainly won’t break the bank while staying here either. For a fraction of the cost of a Manhattan hotel room, a stay here gives you the best of both worlds: the hustle and bustle of New York City, and at the same time, a peaceful reprieve from it all. It is for this reason that many of Fort Place’s guests are international travelers.
For individuals looking to move to Staten Island who may be especially interested in the St. George area, or surrounding neighborhoods, I can’t think of a better place to stay while researching homes. A night here will provide you with a first-hand experience as to why so many call St. George “home.”
Fort Place Bed and Breakfast is located at 22 Fort Place, St. George. The facility has a total of 3 private floors available for reservation, each including its own private bath, queen/king sized bed, and free wifi. Upon arrival, each guest has their own private floor, allowing for an ideal lodging situation for families and/or couples who are traveling together but would like privacy as well. The rooms on the upper floors also provide beautiful views of the Verrazano Bridge, St. George and Manhattan. Parking is available on site, and I hear that the continental breakfast is delicious!
Whether you are a visitor from out of town looking to spend a romantic evening close to the city, or trying to get a real feel for Staten Island’s North Shore, the Fort Place Bed and Breakfast is a rare find you certainly won’t want to miss out on.
I would love to connect with you, contact me on Facebook and twitter.While planning your visit to Staten Island, be sure to go to my website for other great places to see while you’re here. Hope to meet up with you soon!