The Nature Nurture Foundation (NNF) sold the Grand Eastonian Hotel & Suites to CanalHouse Hospitality Enterprises LLC for $5.6M. Located in downtown Easton, the historic hotel has played a significant role in the city’s revitalization.
Property: Grand Eastonian Hotel & Suites in Easton, Pa.
Price: $5.6M
Seller: Nature Nurture Foundation
Buyer: CanalHouse Hospitality Enterprises LLC
Originally opened in 1927, the Grand Eastonian was modeled after metropolitan hotels in nearby New York City and Philadelphia. Over the years it welcomed celebrity guests including Eleanor Roosevelt, Jack Dempsey, John F. Kennedy and Jesse Jackson.
After closing due to bankruptcy in 1990, NNF — a nonprofit organization aware of the hotel’s significance — formed Easton Hotel Restoration LLC to purchase and renovate the property in 2000.
Initially converted into 30 residential condominiums from its original 170 rooms, the model proved unsustainable. In 2008, the layout was reconfigured into 50 hotel rooms, including traditional units and one- and two-bedroom suites with full kitchens and dining areas — the layout that remains today.
The restoration of the hotel has spurred additional downtown activity including a farmer’s market, a growing artist community and a new science center.
“The hotel’s A+ location, historic significance and recent operational improvements position it to capitalize on the economic growth of the city,” said Vasilis Halakos, director of JLL Hotels & Hospitality, who represented the seller.
CanalHouse Hospitality Enterprises LLC — a family business founded by long-time Easton residents — purchased the hotel with a mission to “honor the past while building a vibrant future.” The company aims to preserve local history and culture while creating jobs and delivering exceptional hospitality.
“After decades connected to the business as both employees and patrons, we are thrilled to acquire this historic hotel,” said Trevor Thomas, principal at CanalHouse. “We look forward to partnering with local businesses to showcase Easton as the vibrant, welcoming destination our family calls home.”
“We are delighted to pass ownership on to a purchaser that knows the building well and has the creative talent and resources to take the hotel to new heights,” said Jane Stanley, director, VP and secretary of NNF.
Situated on Northampton Street with views of the Delaware River, the hotel features a banquet area for business and events, five street-level commercial spaces, a heated indoor saltwater pool, fitness center and a 2,200-s.f. outdoor terrace.
