The Equinox Golf Resort & Spa

We booked this iconic hotel for my son's wedding, and it was sad to see how run down it has become. I stayed here years ago and loved it, but the value just isn't there now: premium prices for worn amenities and service that falls short. We know the hotel has new owners, but we haven't seen any difference so far. Our suite had no heat, the bathroom towel holder fell into my girlfriend's tow, and the phone didn't work. Calling the front desk got no answer, and there was no way to leave a message. The staff were friendly, but didn't seem well trained in hospitality. At check-in there was no bellman, so we carried our luggage into the lobby ourselves. When we finally asked, the bellman agreed to help. Some of the grounds were appealing, with bistro lights over a grassy area, but half the string was burned out. Even over Memorial Day weekend there were no cushions on the outdoor chairs until we asked. It felt clear that needed capital improvements to keep the buildings in proper shape haven't been made. At our rehearsal dinner, one of the choices, cod, was so overcooked and cold it couldn't be eaten.

The grounds were lovely, with lots of fire pits, a huge pool, and a hot tub with mountain views. Walking paths lead to the pond, and we found plenty of rooms and tucked-away spots to explore, including Lincoln’s suite, where we jokingly tried to contact the spirits. No wonder Lincoln’s loved it here. The room was spotless, the bed was so nice, and there was a big TV. It felt like modern comfort mixed with history. The hotel is in a beautiful, quaint location, and it’s the most beautiful place I’ve ever stayed. I only wish the rooms had refrigerators.

The conference food was excellent, and the location is lovely. There are trails to waterfalls and a decent golf course across from the hotel. I stayed at the Main Inn in a Resort King room in June 2022. The room was dated, though that’s part of the experience. Later I read that objects are known to move on their own there. On the second night, in the very early morning, my computer bag fell off an antique chair onto the floor. I yelled, “That was rude!” and went back to sleep.

The rooms were great, and there’s a lot to do on site. I loved the history and the old bones of the building, and the location is close to everything. The bar and restaurants were good, though when busy they seemed to get stressed and sometimes turned hotel guests away because the kitchen couldn’t keep up. We were there at a busy time and missed having even a basic takeout menu or room service. With kids, make reservations for everything. Room cleaning was hit or miss. Sometimes they got to our room and sometimes they didn’t. At check-in, they should ask whether guests want daily cleaning. It was a great stay overall, and I’d recommend it.