An Icon Rooted in Grand Tradition
Since 1916, Omni William Penn Hotel has embodied Pittsburgh’s grandest traditions. Commissioned by Henry Clay Frick and designed with European-inspired elegance, the hotel became the city’s social and cultural centerpiece. Today, its storied architecture, iconic ballrooms, and timeless service continue to welcome guests from around the world.
Designed by architects Benno Janssen and Franklin Abbott, the Omni William Penn Hotel opened as Henry Clay Frick’s visionary showpiece—an opulent retreat meant to rival Europe’s greatest hotels. Its debut introduced 1,000 guest rooms, grand public spaces, and a striking two-tier ballroom that became the backdrop for Pittsburgh’s most notable gatherings.
The 1929 Grant Street Annex expanded the hotel to 1,600 rooms and unveiled the famed Urban Room—an Art Deco masterpiece by Joseph Urban, celebrated Ziegfeld Follies designer. Today, the William Penn remains a revered landmark and a proud member of Historic Hotels Worldwide.
The 1929 Grant Street Annex expanded the hotel to 1,600 rooms and unveiled the famed Urban Room—an Art Deco masterpiece by Joseph Urban, celebrated Ziegfeld Follies designer. Today, the William Penn remains a revered landmark and a proud member of Historic Hotels Worldwide.
Moments That Shaped a Pittsburgh Legend
Explore the defining events, architectural achievements, and cultural milestones that built the legacy of the Omni William Penn Hotel.
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Where History Meets Hospitality
From its gilded lobby to its legendary ballrooms, Omni William Penn Hotel offers an atmosphere where timeless architecture and contemporary comfort blend seamlessly. Guests step into a setting inspired by the elegance of a bygone era, where ornate details, grand scale, and thoughtful design reflect the hotel’s storied past. Paired with warm, attentive service and modern amenities, every stay is enriched by historic charm and a sense of place that feels both classic and welcoming. Originally opened in 1916, the hotel was conceived as a beacon of refinement and progress for the city of Pittsburgh. Its carefully preserved interiors tell a story of craftsmanship and ambition, from hand-carved details to soaring public spaces designed to impress. Each corner reveals a connection to the past, offering guests the opportunity to experience history not as an exhibit, but as a living, breathing environment. Today, the Omni William Penn Hotel continues to honor its legacy while evolving to meet the needs of modern travelers. Whether visiting for business, celebration, or leisure, guests are immersed in an experience that balances historic grandeur with genuine comfort—where every stay feels both meaningful and memorable.
The Urban Room: An Art Deco Masterpiece
Designed by renowned architect Joseph Urban, the Urban Room remains one of Pittsburgh’s most photographed and admired spaces. Its iconic blue-and-gold color palette, soaring columns, and dramatic Art Deco motifs evoke the glamour and optimism of the 1920s. Carefully preserved over the decades, the room stands today as a cherished historic treasure—celebrated not only for its beauty, but also as a lasting symbol of the hotel’s artistic and architectural legacy. Joseph Urban, a visionary designer known for his theatrical sensibilities, infused the space with movement, color, and emotion. Every detail—from the geometric patterns to the carefully balanced proportions—was intended to create a sense of wonder and sophistication. The Urban Room reflects a moment in time when art, architecture, and social life converged in bold and expressive ways. Throughout the years, the Urban Room has served as the backdrop for countless events, photographs, and memories. Its enduring allure continues to captivate guests, offering a rare opportunity to step inside a fully realized Art Deco masterpiece that remains as striking today as it was a century ago.
A Storied Gathering Place
For more than a century, the Omni William Penn Hotel has served as a distinguished gathering place at the heart of Pittsburgh. It has welcomed presidents, performers, global leaders, and generations of local residents for moments both monumental and intimate. From milestone celebrations and elegant weddings to landmark meetings and cultural events, the hotel continues to be the city’s premier venue for experiences that create lasting memories and enduring traditions. The hotel’s ballrooms and event spaces have witnessed historic speeches, dazzling galas, and once-in-a-lifetime celebrations, earning a reputation as one of the most iconic venues in the region. Its central location and timeless setting have made it a natural choice for moments that matter most, where history quietly unfolds alongside modern milestones. Today, that legacy continues as new generations gather beneath its chandeliers and within its storied walls. Whether hosting a grand affair or an intimate occasion, the Omni William Penn Hotel remains a place where connections are made, traditions are honored, and unforgettable moments are brought to life.
