When we travel, where we stay often shapes how we remember the trip. Beyond comfort and convenience, the best hotels have a certain presence, a personality that reflects their surroundings and tells a story through design. From Spanish Revival to Nordic minimalism and eclectic modern artistry, themed hotels invite us to experience a destination through atmosphere, texture, and style.
Whether you’re a frequent business traveler craving calm after a long flight or an adventurer searching for spaces that feel inspired and intentional, these five hotels redefine what it means to feel at home on the road. Each one combines thoughtful design with genuine character, showing that, at its core, great hospitality is truly an art form.
1. Nordic Theme: Hewing Hotel | Minneapolis, MN
The Hewing Hotel in downtown Minneapolis is rich in history and full of character. Originally conceived by developer George Henry Andrews, the building was constructed over a century ago and sat vacant for years—until its transformation into the Hewing Hotel in November 2016.
Originally the Jackson Building, the space was reborn as the Hewing Hotel. It honors the past while fully embracing the creativity, style, and energy of the North Loop’s present.
The Rooftop Lounge was added at the same time, giving guests sweeping views of the city skyline. With 124 rooms and over 7,500 square feet of event space, the Hewing has since become a hospitality staple in the North Loop District.
The hotel’s name is a nod to the area’s milling and lumber history—“hewing” refers to the cutting and shaping of wood, like the Minnesota pine beams once hewn just down the street. That legacy lives on through thoughtful details like exposed-wood architecture, locally inspired decor, and live Minneapolis music.
Part of a modest collection of not-so-modest boutique hotels curated by Aparium—a hospitality group known for transforming historic buildings into upscale destinations—the Hewing Hotel perfectly captures the North Loop’s progressive, industrial-chic energy. Thanks to ESG Architecture & Design and Greiner Construction, the space is both stunning and smart. From day one, the developers insisted it perform just as well as it looked—environmentally, financially, and experientially.
Inside, the Hewing’s personality comes to life. Its four floors of rooms boast locally inspired names like Itasca Kings, Dubuque Doubles, and St. Anthony Suites—all featuring custom wall coverings of Minnesota wildlife like loons and deer. The George Henry Suite—named after the building’s original owner—features a private bar and living space.
Minnesota is rich in Scandinavian heritage—a legacy woven into everything from its traditions to its architecture. You’ll especially feel it as you head north: cozy cabins, forested landscapes, and town layouts that feel lifted straight from Norway or Sweden.
The Hewing Hotel captures this Nordic spirit as well. Think raw timber, natural wool textures, stone finishes, and that unmistakable Nordic moodiness—all done with incredible style. The dim lighting, the wallpaper and curated, moody art.
It’s more than a hotel—it’s a Nordic-inspired escape you’ll want to return to again and again.
Guests can also take advantage of the hotel’s two main event spaces: the 3,000-square-foot Andrews Ballroom, with room for 176 banquet guests or 250 cocktail-style, and the Commissioner Boardroom, which accommodates up to 16 for more intimate meetings.
2. Hotel Zaza: Eclectic Blend of Eras and Influences
Designed by the Texas-based firm Duncan Miller Ullmann, Hotel ZaZa Austin blends big-city sophistication with rustic Lone Star authenticity. The hotel features 159 guest rooms and uniquely designed suites, along with a full spa and pool.
What sets this property apart is its eclectic mix of global influences: Persian rugs, vintage tubas repurposed as wall-mounted vases, Louis XV–inspired chairs with cabriole legs, cast-iron Victorian lanterns, and bold art and textures throughout. The design feels less like a hotel and more like stepping into the home of a well-traveled, eccentric friend.
In the lobby and common areas, that vision unfolds on a grander scale. Guests are greeted by unexpected details—oddities and curiosities, striking sculptures, and layers of artwork and photography that shift the mood from one corner to the next. Paired with graphic wall coverings and beautiful furnishings, the atmosphere is playful and surprising, setting a tone that’s uniquely ZaZa.
While the infrastructure is state-of-the-art, the atmosphere is intentionally layered with history and character. Cast stone brick, iron windows and railings, dramatic uplighting, and stained brick treatments give the building a rich patina. Inside, hand-scraped floors, plaster walls, graphic wall coverings, and expansive glass corners create both charm and surprise.
Located in the Warehouse District, the hotel combines urban sophistication with unmistakable Texas character. Exposed brick, soaring windows, and dramatic lighting create a striking backdrop for gatherings that range from intimate meetings to gala-scale celebrations. Every detail—from the custom carpets underfoot to the memorable light fixtures overhead—reinforces the sense of place.
Built on the site of a former glass-blowing factory, the hotel honors its roots while offering a vibrant, boutique experience. In a city where sleek, modern developments dominate, Hotel ZaZa Austin stands out as a bold, artistic departure—designed to feel as though it’s been there forever.
The professional ambiance of Hotel ZaZa Austin’s meeting and event spaces is elevated by bespoke carpets from Ulster Carpets, designed in collaboration with Duncan Miller Ullmann. Spanning over 10,000 square feet, the custom patterns bring warmth and refinement to the hotel’s ballrooms, pre-function areas, and meeting rooms.
Guest rooms and suites continue the narrative. Each space blends influences from bohemian to modernist, retro to contemporary, but avoids predictable Texas clichés. Instead, rooms are designed to be both stylish and substantial, with generous lounge and work areas paired with luxurious marble bathrooms. The environment at Zaza feels truly curated, lived-in, and refreshingly original.
3. The Scott: Spanish Revival-Inspired Architecture
At The Scott, Spanish Revival architecture sets the stage. You’ll notice its defining features everywhere—stucco walls, low-pitched red tile roofs, graceful courtyards, layered arches framing windows and doorways, and wrought-iron details in gates and light fixtures.
You’re going to be obsessed with The Scott, especially when you learn who brought it to life: AvroKO. This isn’t just any design firm—it’s a globally respected, award-winning studio celebrated for creating some of the world’s most extraordinary hospitality experiences. With studios in London, New York, San Francisco, Bangkok, and Miami, their human-centric approach—what they call “Hospitable Thinking”—ensures every space feels meaningful and memorable. They’ve earned over 130 awards in their 20+ years of work, including twice being named Designer of the Year and being dubbed the “Most Admired Hospitality Design Firm.”
When you stay at The Scott, you’ll start seeing AvroKO’s fingerprints everywhere. Their signature mash-up of Bauhaus geometry and Havana’s relaxed charm transforms the historic Spanish Revival architecture into something both timeless and full of personality. Caning screens contrast beautifully with curved brass chandeliers, rattan settees evoke a cozy Havana porch, and vintage artwork fills the space with warmth. Blue-glazed olive jars, lush indoor greenery, and a hand-tiled Spanish bar all tie back to the building’s roots while layering in modern flair. It’s seriously such a vibe.avroko.com
And if you’ve ever seen photos of the lobby or the Canal Club at The Scott in Scottsdale—now you know just how intentional every detail was. It’s more than design—it’s storytelling.
Only a short stroll from downtown Scottsdale, The Scott feels like a hidden oasis—lush landscaping, glowing fire pits, and an atmosphere that instantly transports you. The resort features more than 14,500 square feet of indoor event space, along with stunning outdoor settings like the Laguna Lawn and La Boca Pool. Whether it’s a Cuban-themed holiday celebration or a sophisticated year-end dinner, The Scott can seamlessly host receptions for up to 500 guests and dinners for up to 350.
The Canal Club is more than just a restaurant—it’s a little piece of Havana in the desert. The vibe is fun, upbeat, and perfect for any occasion—whether you’re planning a bachelorette brunch, a birthday celebration, or simply want a great spot to take friends, family, or even business contacts for relaxed conversation over dinner.
The bar is a highlight, serving up fabulous rum-based cocktails that practically invite long, easy conversations. The peach daiquiri is outstanding, the piña coladas are spot-on, and every drink feels crafted with care. The food matches the energy—beautifully prepared with attention to detail, full of flavor, and cooked to perfection. From start to finish, it’s a dining experience that feels vibrant, memorable, and worth coming back for.
4. AKA Boston Common
Hotel AKA Boston Common offers an unmatched experience through the innovative designs of Rafael de Cárdenas Ltd. and Studio NA.GI. This transformation touches every part of this property from the exterior to the common areas and guestrooms.
If you’re planning a Boston trip, you have to check out Hotel AKA Boston Common. It’s just been completely transformed, and it’s stunning. The lobby feels refined and inviting, exactly what you would expect from Rafael de Cárdenas team.
Right off the lobby is their new bar, a.bar and The Bosworth Restaurant + Bar, both come with intimate, eclectic vibe that makes it great for a cocktail. The guestrooms are mixing minimalist Scandinavian style with modern excellence, so the whole space feels serene and airy, a true retreat in the middle of the city.
And if you want something really special, the 1,000-square-foot penthouse has floor-to-ceiling windows with incredible panoramic views of Boston.
They’ve thought of all the details: a 24-hour Technogym fitness center, versatile meeting and event spaces, and on-site dining at The Bosworth Restaurant + Bar, where New England classics are coming alongside the Mediterranean flair.
The location couldn’t be better, you’re right at the crossroads of Beacon Hill, Downtown Crossing, and the Financial District, just steps from Boston Common, the Freedom Trail, and some of the best theaters in the city. Whether you’re in town for business or just exploring, it’s the kind of place that makes your Boston stay feel effortless and elevated.
4. The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel | Omaha
blends historical elegance with modern comfort, drawing inspiration from the building’s original 1916 design and the surrounding Nebraska prairie. It aims to offer a boutique hotel experience with a mix of Midwestern charm and European-inspired glamour. The design incorporates natural materials, luxe finishes, and artful accents, while also featuring contemporary details and playful amenities.
A modern revival of Midwestern heritage and timeless design
The Kimpton Cottonwood Hotel is where Omaha’s storied past encounters a new era of modern hospitality. Set in the heart of the city’s Blackstone District, this 1920s landmark has been thoughtfully preserved and renewed. Its Second Renaissance Revival architecture stands proudly as a bridge between history and contemporary life.
As soon as you step inside, you’re instantly transported. Warm woods, textured fabrics, and bold yet balanced color palettes reflect that Midwestern heritage. Every space tells a story: from the grand lobby’s vintage detailing to the modern art installations that bring a fresh, creative energy. The design captures that uniquely Omaha blend: classic roots, forward vision, and a touch of playfulness.
Where Modern Comfort Meets Local Character
Beyond its design, The Cottonwood embraces a sense of community and connection. Guests can enjoy locally inspired dining at the Committee Chophouse or the relaxed Orléans Room, explore the neighborhood on complimentary bicycles, or just hang out by the resort-style pool and cabanas in summer. Every amenity from the Peloton-equipped fitness center to the Atelier Bloem bath products in the shower feels considered and elevated.
Why It Belongs on the “Best Themed Hotels” List
The Kimpton Cottonwood isn’t themed in the traditional sense, it’s themed around heritage. The hotel’s design celebrates Omaha’s history while also offering all the warmth, creativity, and style of modern boutique hospitality. It’s elegant but not pretentious, local yet doesn’t feeling small.
Stay in Style: The Best Themed Hotels Across the U.S.
Whether we travel for work or for pleasure, most of us are searching for the same thing, a space that feels grounding and effortless when we’re far from home. The right hotel can ease the tension of travel, quiet the noise, and offer you peace and comfort in the middle of busy days.
What stood out to us about these hotels is how intentional their design feels. The Spanish Revival warmth of The Scott, the New England classic of AKA Boston Common, the heritage-inspired charm of The Kimpton Cottonwood and the Nordic serenity of the Hewing Hotel, each creates a distinct atmosphere that reflects its city.
They remind us that great hospitality isn’t about perfection, it’s about presence. It’s about spaces that calm you when you arrive, inspire you when you stay, and make leaving just a little harder than you expected.
So whether you travel out of choice or necessity, consider making design part of your journey. Because when a hotel tells a story, your trip becomes one too.
