Manila Hotel Heritage Tour

Overview

The Manila Hotel is a grand waterfront hotel opened in 1912, a living monument to Manila's colonial and wartime history. General Douglas MacArthur made it his home for seven years, and every Philippine president from Manuel Quezon to Ferdinand Marcos held state dinners in its chandeliered ballrooms.

Highlights

• MacArthur Suite: The five-room penthouse where General MacArthur lived from 1935 to 1941, preserved with original furnishings.
• Champagne Room: A gilded dining room with Waterford chandeliers, where heads of state and Hollywood stars have dined since 1912.
• Heritage Lobby Displays: The lobby showcases a rotating collection of wartime photographs, memorabilia, and historical artifacts.

History

Designed by American architect William Parsons and opened on July 4, 1912, the Manila Hotel was the most luxurious in the Far East. It survived Japanese occupation (when it served as Japanese military headquarters) and the 1945 Battle of Manila, during which fires destroyed much of the interior.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Non-guests can freely explore the lobby and view the heritage displays.
• Tip 2: Afternoon tea in the lobby lounge is a good way to experience the hotel's atmosphere.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.