The Giacomo

Situated in an Art Deco-style building dating back to 1929, the Giacomo is a historic landmark that offers plush and decadently decorated interiors. In an area known for its many budget chain hotels, the Giacomo stands out as one of the only intimate boutique options. It's an especially popular pick for romantically inclined couples thanks to intimate vibe and cozy amenities, such as whirlpool tubs and fireplaces in some rooms, cookies with turndown service, and free hot breakfast. Most travelers to Niagara Falls tend to stay on the Canadian side, which has more attractions, and the Giacomo tends to be more popular with Americans. The Red Coach Inn Historic Bed and Breakfast Hotel is the only comparable option on the U.S. side, and both Sterling Inn & Spa and The Tower Hotel are options for those who'd rather stay on the Canadian side, nearer to the Fallsview tourist district (The Tower Hotel also has impressive falls views, lacking here).  

The decor here is heavy on pattern, color, and texture, lending to a stylish and ornate feel -- though it's a slightly frenetic look that might be a bit much for some tastes. The lounge, for example, has jewel-toned velvet seating, vivid patterned carpeting, walls covered in different kinds of Art Deco-style wallpaper, and partitions of intricate ironwork screening of seating areas. There's a fireplace flanked by large stone figures holding up the mantel, as well as colorful abstract art on the walls and shimmering mosaic tiling here and there. Colorful flowers top tables, adding to the visual feast. 

The hotel is situated on the American side of Niagara Falls, in a convenient location that's a short walk from scenic points that offer lovely views of the falls. There are several other hotels in the immediate area -- including the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino, which is a seven-minute walk away -- as well as a handful of dining options. Niagara Falls State Park is about a seven-minute walk away, while Goat Island can be reached in 13 minutes, and both offer stunning views of the falls. Rainbow Bridge is under a 10-minute walk away and leads to the Canadian side of town, where travelers will find many more attractions in the Fallsview and Clifton Hills tourist districts, including a casino and a giant ferris wheel. These areas can be reached by foot in around 25 minutes or by car in five minutes. Niagara Falls International Airport is about a 15- to 20-minute drive, while Buffalo can be reached in 25 minutes.

Like the hotel's public spaces, guest rooms are filled with decadent patterns and color schemes of shimmering metallics, jewel tones, and neutral hues contrasted by pops of bright abstract art work. Damask black-and-white wallpaper and shiny bedspreads and accent pillows pair with damask-patterned carpeting, while floor-length curtain frame the large windows. Furniture is sleek and black, and includes work desks, plus rooms have armchairs or other seating. Fireplaces in some of the rooms are a cozy touch.

Damask patterns even seep into the large bathrooms, where chic wallpaper in black and gray shades adorns the walls. Large vanities provide plenty of storage space, while walk-in showers are spacious -- some rooms also add separate whirlpool tubs. Toiletries, hairdryers, and plush robes are provided.

Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, Keurig coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Thoughtful details include custom chocolates in the rooms upon arrival, as well as cookies at evening turndown service (though turndown service is only offered upon request). Most rooms have a king-size bed, but some have two queen-size beds. Some suites have separate living rooms with sofas as well as wet bars, plus a handful have full kitchens. Other added extras in some of the suites include a pool table, a computer, and washers and dryers. Guests on a romantic getaway can pay to have Champagne, rose petals, truffles, or wine and cheese waiting in the room.

The Giacomo Lounge serves drinks in a swanky setting, plus there's live music once a week as well as weekday happy hour specials, tastings, and other events. There's also a lounge on the 19th floor with 360-degree views and a nice outlook on the river region (but no falls views). Though there's no restaurant on-site, the hotel offers a full European breakfast that's included in rates and gets rave reviews from guests. Hot items like eggs and bacon are included. 

There's a fitness room on-site, but it's small and equipped with only a few machines. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property. Other freebies include valet parking, custom chocolates upon arrival, and fresh cookies at turndown.