Hospitality

It all began with two brothers from Chicago—Preston and John Wells—who met local resident Champ Carr. Preston was so impressed by Champ’s immaculate rooming house that he asked him to run the hotel he was planning to build. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Before long, the Wells brothers built a three-story, 80-room hotel across from Champ’s rooming house. The hotel featured European ambiance and a Mediterranean style, with lush tropical gardens adding to its appeal. In 1937, the hotel added a six-story wing that increased the number of rooms to 124. Originally named “Hotel Champ Carr,” in honor of its first general manager, Mr. Carr stepped down as GM of the hotel in 1947 and the Wells family renamed it the Riverside Hotel.

In the years that followed, the hotel was—and still is—the site of many of the city’s important civic and social events. Celebrities and well-known politicians alike regularly pass through its doors, enjoying the hotel’s personalized service and distinctive Florida charm.

Today, the Riverside Hotel boasts 220 guest rooms and suites and remains a beacon of old world civility in a thriving, modern, and casually beautiful destination. Combining the highest levels of service with elegant accommodations, more than 11,000 sq. ft. of meeting and banquet space, exquisite dining, and a prime location on the river in the heart of Fort Lauderdale’s downtown, just minutes from the airport, seaport and the beaches, the Riverside Hotel remains a favorite destination for travelers, companies, and residents enjoying special occasions such as weddings, anniversaries, and business meetings.

For Reservations call Toll Free 844-467-0671

Visit us at www.riversidehotel.com