The Red Coach Inn Historic Bed and Breakfast Hotel

The Red Coach Inn first opened its doors in 1923, when Niagara Falls was still a hot spot honeymoon destination. It was designed in English tudor style; the owners hoped to recreate the feel of The Bell Inn in England. The influence is felt not only in the decor, but it more subtle details such as the names of the rooms -- each has the moniker of a different English town.The entrance to The Red Coach Inn can initially be a bit difficult to find -- guests for both the inn and the restaurant enter through the same door, though the inside foyer clearly divides the two spaces. The lobby is small and cozy, with a large wooden front desk, plenty of brochures and travel guides, a small lending library, and a variety of old-fashioned seating. Decorated in muted colors and floral patterns, with dark wood accents, this front room is a good introduction to the decor and styling of the rest of this historic building. An entrance to the dark indoor bar is on the other side of the reception desk, and the bar connects to the restaurant.

Located on a quiet but central street on the American side of the falls, The Red Coach Inn is just 50 yards away from the Upper Rapids and less than a quarter mile from Niagara Falls. Goat Island is a 10-minute walk away and provides beautiful views of both waterfalls, as well as the Ontario side of the town. On the other side of the hotel are a variety of shops, restaurants, and activities, including casinos, museums, and theaters. A park and garden are right next door, and while there are roads on two sides of the hotel, the feel is still calm and the water is nearby.

Every room is unique, and each is named after a different English town (such as Aberdeen, Newcastle, and Cambridge). All are furnished in a traditional style -- expect details such as wrought-iron bed frames, bed drapery, floral prints, wallpaper, and carpeting. The bathrooms have whirlpool tubs combined with showers and granite countertops. Amenities include coffeemakers, free Wi-Fi, and Bose stereos. Standard Rooms are a bit small; guests looking for more space should consider the One or Two-Bedroom Suites, which have separate living and sleeping areas, cooking areas or full kitchens, and fireplaces.

Since this property is located in a historic building, the hotel does not offer as many amenities as some of its nearby competitors. The restaurant is a charming addition, and is decorated with lots of dark mahogany, candelabra-style chandeliers, and red window drapery. There are numerous little nooks with different attractions, including the Grill Room with a stone fireplace, the Fireside Room (also with a fireplace -- and a library), a wine bar, and the aptly named Rapids Room, an enclosed porch with views of the rapids. Lunch and dinner are served.Meeting spaces and banquet rooms are upstairs and available for weddings, parties, and business functions. The hotel also offers free parking and free Wi-Fi in both guest rooms and public areas.