Best Historic Stays: Belleview Inn in Belleair
Affectionately known as the “White Queen on the Gulf,” the Belleview Inn is a striking example of Gilded Age architecture. Over more than 120 years, both the building and the world around it have changed, and that layered history is a big part of what makes it so interesting today.
History of The Belleview Inn
To truly appreciate the Belleview Inn's historical significance, let’s journey back to 1897 when it first opened its doors as the Hotel Belleview. Built by Henry Plant, a titan of Florida's railroad industry, the hotel was part of Plant's grand vision, though he is often overshadowed by his contemporary, Henry Flagler.
The location was chosen for its natural scenic bluffs overlooking Clearwater Bay and its abundant natural springs. And, at 45 feet above sea level, it boasts one of the highest elevations in Florida.
When the hotel first opened, it spanned 78,000 square feet with 145 rooms and offered guests the novelty of a six-hole golf course. Today, it still holds the distinction of having Florida’s oldest continuously operating golf course.
By 1924, the hotel had undergone four major expansions, evolving into the 455-room, 340,000-square-foot Belleview Biltmore Resort. At one point, it was the largest wooden structure on the East Coast and the second largest in the United States.
The hotel attracted a roster of illustrious guests, including the Studebakers, DuPonts, and Vanderbilts. Its golf course drew legendary athletes like Babe Ruth, Bobby Jones, Walter Hagen, and Joe DiMaggio.
Unfortunately, decades of neglect and the gradual loss of the resort’s waterfront property led to its closure in 2009.
In 2015, JMC Communities purchased the property. While 90% of the structure was beyond repair and had to be demolished, the central portion of the 1897 building, including the lobby and 35 rooms above, was preserved and relocated. Wolfe House Movers undertook the herculean task of rotating the remaining portion of the building and moving it 300 feet back.
After a meticulous renovation, The Belleview Inn reopened in 2018 and is now the only one of the eight grand hotels built by Plant that still operates as a hotel.
The Belleview Inn Today
While just a fraction of its original size, the Belleview Inn is still absolutely worth a visit today. Guests are greeted by a beautiful veranda and a lobby that feels elevated yet cozy.
On the first floor, you’ll find Morton’s Reading Room, a den-like space perfect for enjoying a glass of wine or diving into a good book by the faux fireplace. Named after Henry Plant’s son, Morton, who took over hotel operations after his father’s passing, the room is filled with artifacts that pay tribute to the original 1897 hotel.
Across the hall, the reimagined The Tiffany Room features panels of original Tiffany stained glass salvaged from the Belleview Biltmore’s Tiffany Ballroom.
Throughout the hotel, including in the Tiffany Room and Morton’s Reading Room, you’ll find QR codes that link to a high-quality audio tour, as well as pamphlets available beneath some of the larger artworks.
While many guests opt to get to their rooms using the grand staircase, an elevator is also available.
I stayed in a junior suite, located on the third floor, that overlooked the pool. It had sitting area, large bathroom, and double queen beds.
Each morning, guests are treated to a complimentary basket of freshly baked goods, juice, and fruit, delivered right to your door. For those who prefer a larger breakfast, Maisie’s Marketplace (named after Morton Plant’s Wife, Maisie) has a selection of items like egg sandwiches, bagels, and coffee. And, for later in the day, you purchase things like wine, beer, and ice cream.
If nearby Clearwater Beach calls to you, you're in luck: Belleview Inn guests enjoy complimentary valet service at the Sandpearl Resort Clearwater, a fellow Opal Collection property right on Clearwater Beach. You can spend the day at the beach or dine at Caretta on the Gulf, a highly-rated seafood restaurant.
