The National Hotel

As you pull into the old harbor of Block Island, mingling with the salty tang of the ocean air, the natural fragrance of fresh seafood, and the welcoming cacophony of seaside voices, the tidal forces of the Atlantic Ocean take hold. Washed with a wave of calming excitement brought forth by the natural wonder of the sea, we become celebratory and ready to find a place to enjoy life. 

Fortunately, looking straight ahead, into the rich tapestry of the National Hotel, perched front and center, on Water Street, you will discover all the welcoming hospitality and enlightened experiences you are searching for. For generations, this historic oceanfront hotel, has been a prominent place for all things celebrated and is what I consider to be the island’s most happy place. A Block Island landmark, the original National Hotel was built in 1888 and, after a fire in 1902, a new hotel was built in July of 1903, and has been wooing people ever since. It is often said, you cannot walk by the National Hotel without being lured up the stairs and onto the iconic National porch. The sound of people gathering, music playing, and merriment happening, embraces you and is too much to resist. Whether it be the shade, the shelter, or the scenic views, it feels like the best party you have ever been to, and like home, at the same time. Owners, Chris and Jackie Sereno know how to do this very well. They have invested a lifetime of efforts in their mission of creating a most memorable destination. With lifetime friend and colleague, Julie Natalizia as the general manager, Chef Camyrn Carlson, as executive chef, and a loyal staff and team, that simply wants to return year after year, the National Hotel is the place to go when you need to be well-taken care of. And once there, the National “Tap and Grille” menu begins to do just that. Whether you dine on the porch, inside in the tap room bar, or sit outside around the cozy fire pits, make sure you try their famous lobster roll. Made with the freshest chunks of sweet lobster, tossed in a warm butter bath, sprinkled with fresh herbs, all wrapped up in a soft roll, Chef Camyrn certainly knows how to let the quality of the ingredients shine.

After that, most people want to stay a little longer, and with accommodations that have all the charm of the past with the conveniences of the present, they usually do. Creating an elevated experience that integrates a storied past with the energy of today is a significant part of the hospitality mission of the National Hotel, and owner, Chris Sereno, realizes the power this beautiful Block Island landmark has to make people happy.

“We are fortunate to have an impressive historical property with stunning views, and, with the ocean as our front yard, our location gives our guests a sense of peace, and it is important to us to carry that feeling over to our services and make people feel warm, welcome, and happy.” Throughout the National, with the summer breeze as the perfect backdrop, there is a celebratory camaraderie and, with refreshing cheer and certainty in the air, it is surely a place where friendships begin, memories are made, and yes, even happiness, is found.