Why Supporting Black-Owned Hotels Matter During Black History Month & Beyond
February is Black History Month, a time when we honor Black excellence, achievements, and contributions across industries including luxury travel and hospitality. But let’s be real, celebrating and supporting Black businesses shouldn’t stop at the end of February.
Black entrepreneurs have been shaping the travel industry for centuries, from pioneering Black hoteliers during segregation to today’s luxury resort owners redefining what world-class hospitality looks like.
Choosing a Black-owned hotel or resort means investing in our culture, preserving our history, and ensuring that Black excellence continues to thrive in the hospitality industry.
So, if you’re planning a romantic getaway, a solo retreat, or a luxe girls' trip, here’s a list of the best Black-owned hotels and resorts in the U.S. where you can indulge in elegance, comfort, and culture—while supporting Black businesses.
Best Black-Owned Hotels & Resorts in the U.S.
1. Salamander Resort & Spa – Middleburg, VA
📍 500 N Pendleton St, Middleburg, VA 20117
Best For: Luxe wellness retreats, equestrian lovers, and wine country getaways
Owned by Sheila Johnson (co-founder of BET and the first Black woman to own a five-star resort), Salamander Resort & Spa is the definition of luxury meets nature. Nestled in Virginia’s scenic wine country, this award-winning resort is a dream destination for those seeking relaxation, horseback riding, and top-tier spa treatments.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Full-service luxury spa that will have you floating out the door
✔️ Private equestrian center—because horseback riding in style is a must
✔️ Scenic vineyard views for the ultimate relaxing escape
✔️ Five-star dining & fine wines to elevate your experience
Book your stay: www.salamanderresort.com
Photo Credit: Salamander Resort & Spa
2. The Ivy Hotel – Baltimore, MD
📍 205 E Biddle St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Best For: Romantic getaways, staycations, and all-inclusive luxury stays
If you’re looking for an all-inclusive boutique hotel that feels like home (but better), The Ivy Hotel is the ultimate Black-owned luxury experience. Owned by Eddie and Sylvia Brown, this five-star historic mansion delivers the kind of personalized service and elegance that makes it one of the top luxury hotels in the U.S.
Why You’ll Love It:✔️ All-inclusive—yes, that means your gourmet meals, cocktails, and afternoon tea are included
✔️ A full-service spa for the ultimate relaxation
✔️ Fine dining at Magdalena, one of Baltimore’s most luxurious restaurants
✔️ Top-tier service—every guest gets five-star treatment
Book your stay: www.theivybaltimore.com
Photo Credit: The Ivy Hotel
3. NOPSI Hotel – New Orleans, Louisiana
📍 317 Baronne St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Best For: Vibrant city escapes, jazz lovers, and those who love a touch of historic charm 🎷
NOPSI Hotel, owned by Sheila Johnson, is a Black-owned luxury hotel that blends historic architecture with modern sophistication. Located in the heart of New Orleans, it’s minutes from Bourbon Street, the French Quarter, and the Superdome.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Rooftop pool & bar with breathtaking city views
✔️ Sophisticated, spacious rooms with elegant decor
✔️ Prime location—perfect for exploring all that New Orleans has to offer
Book your stay: www.nopsihotel.com
Photo Credit: Nopsi Hotel
4. Wellspring Manor & Spa – Upper Marlboro, MD
📍 3414 Herbert Rd, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
Best For: Wellness retreats, art lovers, and peaceful getaways
Wellspring Manor & Spa is a luxury retreat hidden away from the city noise, offering bespoke spa services and a curated Black art collection. If you’re looking to recharge your mind, body, and spirit, this is where you need to be.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ A serene, private estate designed for peace and relaxation
✔️ Personalized spa treatments to help you fully unwind
✔️ A stunning Black art collection celebrating culture and creativity
Book your stay: www.wellspringmanor.com
Photo Credit: Wellspring Manor
5. Akwaaba Inns – Luxury Boutique B&Bs in Brooklyn, D.C., Philadelphia, Cape May & the Poconos
📍 Multiple Locations: Brooklyn, NY | Washington, D.C. | Philadelphia, PA | Cape May, NJ | The Poconos, PA
Best For: Cozy boutique stays, cultural experiences, and romantic getaways
When it comes to Black-owned boutique hospitality, Akwaaba Inns is the gold standard. Founded by Monique Greenwood, former Essence Magazine Editor-in-Chief, this collection of luxury bed-and-breakfasts blends historic charm, Afrocentric elegance, and impeccable service across multiple East Coast destinations.
Why You’ll Love It:
✔️ Brooklyn, NY – Akwaaba Mansion: An 1860s landmark mansion in the heart of Bed-Stuy, featuring Afrocentric decor and luxurious accommodations.
✔️ Washington, D.C. – Akwaaba D.C.: A chic, urban retreat in the nation’s capital, perfect for a refined city stay.
✔️ Philadelphia, PA – Akwaaba Philadelphia: A Victorian-style escape near historic Philly landmarks, blending modern luxury with old-world charm.
✔️ Cape May, NJ – Akwaaba by the Sea: A quaint beachfront B&B offering coastal relaxation and vintage elegance in a scenic seaside town.
✔️ The Poconos, PA – The Mansion at Noble Lane: A full-scale luxury estate turned retreat center, perfect for wellness getaways, group retreats, and romantic escapes in the mountains.
No matter which location you choose, Akwaaba Inns offer a refined, uniquely Black luxury experience—one where every guest is treated like family.
Book your stay: www.akwaaba.com
Photo Credit: Akwaaba Inn
Book Black & Travel Luxe
Supporting Black-owned hotels is an investment in our culture and legacy. This Black History Month and beyond, let’s keep these businesses thriving and continue to celebrate Black excellence in luxury travel.
📌 Have you stayed at a Black-owned luxury hotel? Drop your faves in the comments!
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