The hotel and tourism industries, both in the US and worldwide, have always been challenging for independent owners—especially for Black hoteliers, who have historically been excluded from the space. From funding hurdles to a lack of visibility within the travel sector, the playing field has never been level (and still isn’t, given the scarcity of Black-owned stays). But that hasn’t stopped some from creating stunning, standout properties that have made it onto my wishlist.
So, in honor of Black History Month (and my love for a fabulous hotel), I’m sharing Black-owned hotels that deserve your company on your next vacay!
Black-owned hotels in the US
The Good House in Desert Hot Springs, California
A retreat from the noise in the wide-open desert, The Good House is a hideaway in Desert Hot Springs, just two hours southeast of Los Angeles and 35 minutes from Coachella. From spacious suites to cozy rooms with private terraces, comfort is key here. Many rooms feature kitchenettes or full kitchens.
Nightly room rates here start at $500. The hotel also donates $2 per night of every guest stay to the LGBTQ+ Community Center of the Desert.
The Captain Farris House in Cape Cod, Massachusetts
On a recent trip to Cape Cod, I came across this incredibly sweet Black-owned bed and breakfast on the Cape in Yarmouth only minutes from West Dennis Beach and close to Hyannis and Harwich. It feels like a home away from home with uniquely designed bedrooms, hydrangea-lined gardens, and a yummy breakfast to look forward to each morning.
The history behind it is that it was a Greek Revival Sea Captain’s home, built in the 1840s. The current owners, Jeff and Carol from New York, became the fourth owners in 2016. Their love for travel and fine hotels and restaurants inspired them to open up The Captain Farris House. Nightly rates start at around $178 depending on the season. Summer season will always be more pricey as it is high season for the Cape.
The Ivy in Baltimore, Maryland
Baltimore is an underrated gem of a visit, and The Ivy is proof of that. This elegant, boutique hotel has seen a lot of history within its walls. It was originally a grand 19th-century mansion and now blends old-world charm with top-tier hospitality so perfectly with 18 uniquely designed rooms, personalized service, and thoughtful extras (like complimentary afternoon tea and a house car for exploring the city). Rooms start at around $360 a night.
Urban Cowboy in Nashville, Tennessee
An insanely well-designed western-themed hotel in the heart of East Nashville, Urban Cowboy has eight suites in a historic Victorian mansion dating back to the 1800’s. With two bars—because priorities—the Parlor Wine Bar has live music from top Nashville artists, and the Public House is more of a local hangout and cocktail haven in a former carriage house. Nightly rates start at $340.
Salamander in Middleburg, Virginia
This sprawling 340-acre stay is nestled in Virginia’s Horse and Wine Country at Salamander Middleburg, located in the DC area and just 30 minutes from Dulles International Airport. It’s so lovely, it’s actually listed as a Forbes Five-Star resort.
If you’re up for horseback riding, countryside bike tours, or a challenging aerial park, there’s plenty of adventure to choose from. If you’re more of a laid-back person, you can indulge in gourmet dining, unwind at a world-class spa, or stay in for movies and room service in spacious, beautifully designed guest rooms. Nightly stays start at $550.
Black-owned hotels around the world
🇬🇩 Spice Island Beach Resort in Grenada
🇯🇲 Half Moon in Montego Bay in Jamaica. It’s even more beautiful in person
🇯🇲 Rondel Village in Jamaica. My family and I have been staying here since I was 8!
🇰🇪 Arijiju in Kenya, Africa is TOP on my wishlist
🇮🇩 Hotel Sages in Bali, Indonesia
🇨🇴 Blue Apple Beach and Townhouse in Cartagena, Colombia
If you have a particular vacation destination in mind, you might find it on this extensive list of more Black-owned hotels.
Drop any more black-owned hotels or even Airbnb on your radar and let’s spread the LOVE!
An amazing list, thank you. Would love to stay at Spice Island and Urban Cowboy.
This is a fabulous resource. Thank you!