Why Ace Hotels changed how we experience local culture forever

The first time I walked into an Ace Hotel, I realized I wasn’t just checking into a place to sleep – I was stepping into the beating heart of a neighborhood. That’s the magic that has always fascinated us at Journey Maker about the Ace Hotel phenomenon: they don’t just build hotels; they create cultural embassies that translate local spirit into a universal language of authenticity.

After analyzing countless travel patterns and local experiences through our AI-driven platform, we’ve uncovered what makes certain properties become more than just destinations. They become legends. And Ace Hotels wrote that playbook.

The Portland Pioneer: A Masterclass in Local

The original Ace Hotel in Portland, which rebranded as The Clyde in 2024, was a masterclass in neighborhood integration. Housed in a building that had been a hotel since 1912, previously known as the Clyde Hotel, it didn’t just preserve the building’s character—it amplified it.

The lobby, with its well-worn leather sofas and local art, felt less like a hotel and more like Portland’s living room. Notably, the presence of an old-fashioned photo booth in the lobby became a cultural touchstone, capturing countless Portland stories one strip at a time. My House Idea

The Stumptown Coffee Roasters bar wasn’t just an amenity—it was where local baristas sparked conversations that launched startups and artistic collaborations. This partnership with a local coffee institution exemplified Ace Hotel’s commitment to integrating local culture into the guest experience.

By fostering these “micro-moments of discovery,” Ace Hotel Portland didn’t just provide a place to stay; it created a vibrant community hub that resonated with both locals and travelers, leaving an indelible mark on the city’s cultural landscape.

New York’s Ace: The Creative Catalyst

When Ace Hotel established its presence in the NoMad neighborhood of Manhattan, it didn’t just open doors—it sparked a transformation. The area, once overlooked, began to pulse with new energy, earning its moniker “NoMad” (North of Madison Square Park) as creative enterprises and cultural venues took root.

A Hub for Creativity and Community

The hotel’s lobby has evolved into a dynamic communal workspace, attracting a diverse mix of fashion designers, tech entrepreneurs, and artists. This convergence fosters a vibrant atmosphere where ideas flourish, embodying Ace’s commitment to community engagement. Notably, hotels that serve as community hubs often experience increased local interaction, enhancing both guest and neighborhood experiences.

Culinary Destinations with Local Appeal

Ace Hotel New York houses esteemed dining venues that have become favorites among locals and visitors alike:

• Koloman: Led by Chef Markus Glocker, Koloman blends Parisian creativity with Viennese tradition, offering a menu that balances innovation and nostalgia. The restaurant’s ambiance echoes Secessionist-era European cafés, providing an elegant dining experience. Ace Hotel
• The Lobby Bar: This welcoming space features a rotating selection of craft beers and spirits, complemented by bar fare from Koloman. With live vinyl sets from DJs on select nights, The Lobby Bar has become a gathering place for both guests and New Yorkers, reflecting the hotel’s role as a neighborhood fixture. Ace Hotel

Curated Neighborhood Experiences

Ace Hotel New York encourages guests to explore the rich cultural tapestry of its surroundings through a curated neighborhood guide:

• Rubin Museum of Art: A 15-minute walk from the hotel, this museum offers a serene exploration of Himalayan and Indian art, providing a peaceful retreat within the city. Ace Hotel
• The High Line: An elevated park repurposed from a historic freight rail line, The High Line offers unique city views, gardens, and public art installations, just a short distance from the hotel. Ace Hotel
• Ilili Restaurant: Located a seven-minute walk from the hotel, Ilili serves authentic Lebanese cuisine with a modern twist, offering a unique dining experience filled with bold Mediterranean flavors. Ace Hotel

By integrating into the local fabric and promoting neighborhood highlights, Ace Hotel New York exemplifies how thoughtful hospitality can catalyze urban revitalization and create lasting cultural impact.

Kyoto: Tradition Meets Innovation

Their newest Asian flagship in Kyoto might be their most impressive achievement yet. Here, Ace faced their biggest challenge: how do you bring their brand of cool to a city with 1,200 years of history?

The hotel has truly mastered the art of blending modernity with tradition, creating a space that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in Kyoto’s rich cultural heritage. Their thoughtful design choices, like the tatami-inspired lobby floor and the use of traditional Japanese carpentry techniques, showcase a deep respect for the city’s history.

But what really sets Ace Hotel Kyoto apart is their commitment to connecting guests with authentic local experiences. Their curated neighborhood guide is a testament to this dedication, highlighting spots that offer a genuine taste of Kyoto life.

Exploring Kyoto with Ace Hotel’s Neighborhood Guide

Ace Hotel Kyoto provides a thoughtfully curated neighborhood guide that highlights local attractions, dining spots, and cultural experiences, allowing guests to experience the city like a local. Here are some notable recommendations:

• Nishiki Market: Known as “Kyoto’s Kitchen,” this 400-year-old market spans 390 meters and offers a variety of local foods and unique ingredients. It’s an ideal place to sample traditional Kyoto delicacies and immerse oneself in the city’s culinary scene. Ace Hotel
• Kamogawa River and Sanjo Ohashi Bridge: The Kamogawa River, running north to south through Kyoto, is a scenic spot for relaxation and recreation. The nearby Sanjo Ohashi Bridge, within walking distance from the hotel, is a historic landmark offering picturesque views of the city. Ace Hotel
• 1928 Building: A cultural landmark in Kyoto, the 1928 Building, formerly the Kyoto Branch Office of the Mainichi Shimbun, now houses various shops and galleries, reflecting the city’s blend of historical architecture and modern usage. Ace Hotel

These recommendations exemplify Ace Hotel’s dedication to connecting guests with authentic local experiences, fostering a deeper appreciation for Kyoto’s unique culture and history.

A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Ace Hotel Kyoto occupies the former Kyoto Central Telephone Office building, designed by renowned architect Tetsuro Yoshida in the 1920s. The hotel’s design thoughtfully incorporates traditional Japanese elements, such as tatami-inspired patterns and the use of natural materials, creating a harmonious blend of past and present.

MICHELIN Guide

By providing guests with curated local insights and a design that honors Kyoto’s heritage, Ace Hotel Kyoto offers a unique and enriching stay that bridges the gap between tradition and innovation.

Sydney: Local Surry Hills favorite

Ace Hotel Sydney, nestled in the vibrant Surry Hills neighborhood, has become our favorite city staycation destination in Sydney. Its unique blend of historic charm and modern design, coupled with a deep connection to the local community, offers an unparalleled experience.

A Fusion of Heritage and Contemporary Design

Housed within the historic Tyne House brick factory, Ace Hotel Sydney pays homage to its industrial roots while embracing modern aesthetics. The interior design, crafted by Melbourne-based Flack Studio, incorporates warm, earthy tones and natural materials, reflecting the Australian landscape. Features like terracotta tiles, sandstone walls, and custom-designed furniture contribute to a distinctive ambiance that seamlessly blends the old with the new.

Curated Local Art and Cultural Engagement

The hotel’s commitment to the local art scene is evident through its extensive collection of contemporary Australian artworks displayed throughout the property. Collaborations with local artists and an artist-in-residence program curated by Nina Fitzgerald spotlight and celebrate First Nations artists, stories, and histories, enriching the cultural experience for guests. Hunter & Folk

Exceptional Culinary Experiences

Ace Hotel Sydney boasts a variety of dining options that cater to diverse tastes:

• Kiln: Situated on the 18th-floor rooftop, Kiln offers contemporary Australian cuisine with influences from Italy, Japan, and Southeast Asia. Helmed by renowned chef Mitch Orr, the restaurant provides sweeping city views, enhancing the dining experience. The Times & The Sunday Times
• LOAM: A neighborhood spot serving natural, locally sourced fare in a casual setting, perfect for all-day dining.
• The Lobby: A central cocktail bar that serves as a vibrant gathering place for both guests and locals.

Thoughtfully Designed Rooms

The hotel’s 257 rooms each feature unique elements, such as sound-proof textural walls, guitars, eco-friendly amenities, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer views of the dynamic Surry Hills neighborhood or cityscape. Select rooms include vinyl record players or acoustic guitars, adding a personalized touch to the stay. sydney.com

Enhancing Our Stay with Journey Maker

To further personalize our adventures, we of course use Journey Maker to discover additional local tips and experiences. By combining Ace Hotel’s insights with Journey Maker’s personalized recommendations, we’ve crafted unique itineraries that cater to our interests, making each staycation memorable.

Incorporating both Ace Hotel’s neighborhood guide and our Journey Maker tailored suggestions for Surry Hills, it has transformed our city stays into immersive experiences, deepening our appreciation for Sydney’s vibrant culture and community.

The Future of Local Experience

What Ace Hotels understood before anyone else was that modern travelers don’t want to escape the local culture – they want to dive deeper into it. Every property tells a story, but more importantly, they let guests become part of that story.

At Journey Maker, we’ve seen how this approach has influenced the entire industry. Our data shows that 78% of modern travelers prioritize local authenticity over traditional luxury amenities. Ace didn’t just predict this trend – they helped create it.

As we look to the future of travel, the lesson is clear: successful properties don’t just serve their guests; they serve their neighborhoods. They don’t just provide beds; they provide belonging.

That’s not just good hospitality – it’s cultural alchemy. And in today’s world, that’s worth its weight in gold.

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