On the eastern shore of Alabama, along Mobile Bay, rests a lasting tribute to southern charm and hospitality, the Grand Hotel. The Grand, as it is affectionately referred to by Fairhope locals and repeat visitors, first opened its doors in 1847.
During the Civil War, the hotel provided a shelter and hospital for local Confederate soldiers. Over 300 of these soldiers were laid to rest in the Confederate Cemetery on the grounds.
Throughout the years, the Grand has endured fires, hurricanes, and multiple owners yet she still remains a lovely respite for vacationers and daytrippers in search of a slower, more gracious way of life. Guests at the Grand enjoy strolls along the board walk, mint juleps in Bucky's Lounge and games of croquet.
My sweet friend Cat and I were in the area and stopped by for tea time which is served each day at 4 p.m. Have you ever heard the saying that you should learn to enjoy your coffee without cream because you never know when cream will be available? Well, at the Grand, not only can you depend on cream and plenty of sugar, but you can expect delicious scones and cookies as well!
Throughout the years, the Grand has endured fires, hurricanes, and multiple owners yet she still remains a lovely respite for vacationers and daytrippers in search of a slower, more gracious way of life. Guests at the Grand enjoy strolls along the board walk, mint juleps in Bucky's Lounge and games of croquet. My sweet friend Cat and I were in the area and stopped by for tea time which is served each day at 4 p.m. Have you ever heard the saying that you should learn to enjoy your coffee without cream because you never know when cream will be available? Well, at the Grand, not only can you depend on cream and plenty of sugar, but you can expect delicious scones and cookies as well! 
2 comments:
Laura,
Thank you so much for the idea! I took my mom there for tea and we loved it! At 4:00 each day, there is also a small military parade around the grounds which begins in the main lobby and ends at the cannon. A brief history of the Grand is told and then the cannon is shot off. We enjoyed learning about the history of the Hotel before having tea. After tea, we sat in the swings and enjoyed the beautiful scenary and nice breeze. It was definitely a relaxing and enjoyable afternoon. Thanks again for the idea!
Catherine Wynn
SO glad that you were able to enjoy tea time and a Grand history lesson with your mom. Thanks for sharing Cat! Some of my favorite childhood memories are about time spent with the family in Fairhope and at the Grand. ~Cricket
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