WC Lipe Mansion

Let me justify the rating first. I have stayed in $ 700 a night hotels rooms in Las Vegas, Westins and Hyatt’s in San Francisco, Marriott’s all over the USA, B and B’s on the California coast, Paris, Castles in the South of France, converted hilltop Villas in Italy, Log Cabins in Canada, a boutique hotel in Venice, and nothing else compares with this stay. And that’s after only one of three nights.
This is an old turn of the century mansion south of downtown Syracuse once owned by inventor and industrialist WC Lipe. The owner and proprietor Robert, has been living here and lovingly restoring it for ten years. He gave me a tour when I arrived and it was like watching the Antiques Roadshow on TV. There are stained glass windows by Tiffany’s main competitor, and a music room with a piano so old they are afraid to move it. Your room key looks like it’s from Game of Thrones. I was upgraded to a two room suite probably because I think I’m the only one here. The bathroom has one of those old toilets with a pull chain and the tank up above. I have a Keurig machine in a little butler’s pantry with a refrigerator. I have two TVs, one an Apple TV to watch just about anything under the sun and a Direct TV.
Robert wanted to know what time I would be down for breakfast. I said 7:30, and when I got there the orange juice was already poured and a pot of coffee was waiting for me. Robert brought out a plate of fresh fruit (I’m from California and I know fresh fruit) big enough for three people. Then he asked what I wanted for breakfast suggesting eggs or and omelet. I said «Ham and cheese omelet?» He said, «Coming right up.»
We talked a little and he suggested that since I was impressed with the facility, if I wanted to, I could invite the friend I am visiting for breakfast tomorrow or the next day. Normally I would have stayed at my friend’s home, but it is full of other guests.
A few caveats related to the modern conveniences that new hotel rooms have that you won’t find here: You have to lock the door behind you when you come or go. It has steam heat from old radiators. Parking is limited. I parked in the driveway and Robert said that was fine as long as I wasn’t blocking anyone. There is no elevator.
Modern conveniences it does have: Free Wi-​Fi, a printer, big screen projection TV (Monday Night Football tonight!). Power strips for charging all of your devices.
Robert is justifiably proud of this beautiful hotel, and he is the reason it is beautiful. He is the reason you will enjoy your stay. It’s like you are staying with a friend that wants you to really enjoy his hospitality.