Decorah's Fairfield Inn & Suites opens its doors to the community

Rebound Hospitality's Brett Reese and Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson

OK, tell the truth: Did you ever think a hotel as elegant as the new Fairfield Inn & Suites would be built in Decorah?

Friday afternoon Rebound Hospitality, Marriott International and the Decorah community celebrated what Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson called "this stunning asset," holding a grand opening celebration at the hotel.

Rebound Hospitality Managing Partner Brett Reese took a look back at the three-year-long process that culminated in the opening of the hotel seven weeks ago.  He praised "the City of Decorah's vision and commitment" as being one reason the site of a former closed motel has seen new life as a Fairfield Inn.

Winneshiek County Development Executive Director Stephanie Fromm said the project "is a special site to all of us."

Marriott's Sorenson spoke of his wish that the hotel will give people a taste of Decorah and make them want to stay and sample everything Decorah has to offer.
 
Sorenson drove into Decorah Thursday night to be here for Friday's grand opening.  He spoke of seeing the hotel lit up at night and told Friday's crowd, "It felt like I was coming home."

A large crowd of people attended the grand opening

A free meal was a big attraction

Rebound Hospitality's Brett Reese

Marriott CEO Arne Sorenson