Mansions On Fifth Hotel

Walking into the lobby of the 1906 McCook Mansion is like walking into Elizabethan times. Upon entering, guests are immediately immersed in intricately carved, dark wood paneling; coffered ceilings; and authentic (or very well reproduced) antique decor. A large fireplace is framed by hand-painted ceramic tiles depicting a jousting knight amidst the countryside in Medieval Europe; fine rugs cover plank wood flooring; a grand staircase leads to a platform illuminated by three large stained-glass panels. Adjacent to the staircase you'll find a grand piano and a large traditional painting that is indicative of the impressive collection of artwork on display throughout the hotel -- some of which can be purchased. Breakfast tends to be a memorable meal served in one of two beautiful, period-style dining rooms, each with a grand fireplaces and antique chandeliers. Weddings or other frequently hosted social events can cause a buzz in what is normally a quiet experience.  

The two 1906 mansions that comprise this hotel are located in the upscale Shadyside neighborhood once known as Millionaire’s Row. Fifth Street is a busy thoroughfare that leads to the area’s major universities, all of which are about a 15-minute walk away or less. The closest shops and restaurants are approximately eight minutes away on foot through residential streets, and you'll find a bus stop right outside the hotel. Carnegie Mellon University is a 12-minute walk, six-minute drive, or eight-minute bus ride, while Chatham University and the University of Pittsburgh are four minutes driving or nine minutes by bus. The Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Garden is a six-minute drive and downtown Pittsburgh is approximately five miles west. Downtown attractions, including PNC Park, David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Strip District, and Point State Park, can be reached in about 15 minutes by car or 35 to 40 minutes by bus. Pittsburgh International Airport is a 30- to 40-minute drive or about an hour and a half by public transit. 

All 22 rooms at Mansions on Fifth are clean and individually decorated with comfortable, pillow-top mattresses and outfitted in vintage Elizabethan style. Most rooms have dark, intricately patterned carpet (some have hardwood floors) and walls in soft earth tones shades of blue, gray, gold, or green. Period antiques and quality reproductions accent and furnish the rooms. You can expect poster beds, writing desks, and a few minor modern touches like skylights in some of the rooms. Other features include drapes or blinds, original leaded-glass or stained-glass windows, gas fireplaces, cathedral ceilings, and bay windows. Bathrooms typically feature white marble vanities and modern, walk-in, rainfall showers with clear glass doors. Some suites also have claw-foot soaking tubs or whirlpool tubs. The Premium Lofts and Suites are large, some featuring wet bars, separate sitting areas, and second bathrooms. Some lofts are bi-level as well. All rooms have phones, iHome docks, safes, flat-screen TVs (DVD players are available upon request), free Wi-Fi, and free bottled water. Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, Luxe Monarch robes, and slippers are standard bathroom amenities. 

Be aware that elevators do not reach the third-floor rooms, and rooms do not have air-conditioning controls. In-room breakfast and coffee service can be arranged, as can massage treatments. Rooms are generally quiet but some guests have reported substantial noise during special events at the main building.

Mansions on Fifth Hotel has several features that add to its elegance and appeal. The free continental breakfast is served in two beautiful, formal dining rooms. Hot breakfast options are available as well, but they cost an additional fee. Note that guests staying in next door McCook-Reed Mansion must walk to the main building for breakfast. For drinks and other light bites, the Oak Room bar serves sandwiches and other light fare in addition to its extensive wine and Scotch list in a large room with dark oak floors and vintage furniture. 

The second floor of the main building has an art gallery, and art is displayed throughout the property, with some pieces available for purchase. Guests also can borrow books during their stays from the hotel library. Several lovely event spaces are available on-site and can host up to 450 people for social events and weddings. But some features are simply practical, such as the small fitness room at the hotel where you can find few a cardio machines, or the business center in the lobby, and Wi-Fi is free throughout. There's also free valet parking, and a hotel concierge and butler service is available. Pets are allowed in certain rooms.