Richmond Hotel

Originally opened in 1941, the Richmond Hotel is known for restoring its original '40s (and to some extent '50s) Art Deco style, as well as the three generations of family members who still own and operate it. Today, the lobby has a more contemporary look, though details such as four hues of granite tile, wood paneling, and artwork are all designed to evoke the era. However, despite updates over the years, and eco-friendly additions such as halogen bulbs (which don't add to the ambience), the hotel has some old, worn-down areas -- particularly the rooms and lounge area by the cafe. It's not really a kid-friendly place, but its beach access and prime party location make it a suitable option for couples.

Located on the chic, upper section of Collins Avenue, the Richmond is near some of the biggest, swankiest party hotels in South Beach -- the Delano and SLS South Beach to name a couple. The hotel provides direct access to the famous Miami beach through its rear, past a promenade that runs adjacent to the beach in both directions. This section of beachfront is slightly less crowded than those farther south, but it's still booming; expect branded sets of loungers and matching umbrellas positioned in front of the neighboring properties. There are popular restaurants and shops along Lincoln Road -- a pedestrian mall about three blocks away.

The hotel's 92 rooms have decor and color palettes that vary somewhat, but they're really categorized by the quality of their views, since all have the same amenities. Standard and Superior Rooms have city or pool courtyard views, while Oceanfront Rooms have distant water views. Most rooms have one queen bed, while those that have king beds are actually getting two twin beds pushed together. All are furnished in a vintage style with blond oak furniture; Art Deco accents are prevalent in everything from the lamps and curtains, to artwork and the black-and-white bedside clock radios. The rooms are on the small side with cramped sitting areas that have cool period armchairs, and small glass-topped desks with chairs. Flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges come standard, as well as bathrobes, safes, and toiletries. Parlor Suites are a bit more spacious, but it's mostly contained to larger entryways that are just big enough for the desks and chairs. The bathrooms come in a variety of colorful Art Deco tiles, with period toilets and sinks, along with shower/tub combos. We found some badly worn furnishings, along with the occasional rug stain or chipped bathroom tile, but the rooms are generally well-kept. 

The Richmond Hotel offers a solid amount of amenities, though like most hotels in Miami, a few of these are included in a daily resort fee. Most noteworthy is the hotel's direct access to a reserved section on the beach, where guests can occupy loungers (included in the resort fee) under umbrellas (require additional fee). The hotel also has a well-maintained courtyard with an outdoor pool and half-moon shaped hot tub surrounded by a stone deck lined by red cushioned loungers and matching umbrellas, along with a lawn housing a few cabanas. More sunbathing space is on a fifth-floor rooftop terrace, but some guests also go there to smoke. The meager Veranda Cafe serves breakfast (not included) along with lunch and snacks, in a dining room that extends to a poolside terrace. There's also a business center with a couple of computers, plus a meeting room. Wi-Fi is included in the resort fee. A small gym has a few cardio machines and a weight trainer, but it's tight on space.