Additional Coverage:
- I dined at Taylor Swift’s rumored wedding venue. It felt straight out of a fairytale but small for a star-studded celebration. (businessinsider.com)
Rumors Swirl: Could Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Tie the Knot at Rhode Island’s Historic Ocean House?
Watch Hill, RI – Speculation is rife that pop superstar Taylor Swift and Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce might be exchanging vows this summer at the Ocean House, a luxurious and historic resort nestled in Westerly, Rhode Island. The rumored location, just a stone’s throw from Swift’s own Watch Hill mansion, offers an intriguing blend of Gilded Age grandeur and secluded New England charm.
Page Six initially reported in December that the couple was eyeing the Ocean House for their nuptials. This meticulously restored five-star property, which first opened its doors in 1868, boasts breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and a storied past. While the Ocean House has remained tight-lipped regarding the rumors, a recent visit to the esteemed establishment provided a firsthand look at why it could be the perfect backdrop for a “Love Story” celebration.
A Glimpse Inside the Ocean House: A Swift-Worthy Venue?
The Ocean House is situated in Watch Hill, a picturesque village within Westerly, Rhode Island. This quaint area, home to approximately 200 residents, is celebrated for its classic New England aesthetics, expansive ocean vistas, and magnificent seaside homes.
Originally established in 1868, shortly after the Civil War, the Ocean House quickly became a quintessential summer retreat for affluent families seeking coastal relaxation. After closing its doors in 2003 due due to structural concerns, the hotel underwent a meticulous reconstruction, faithfully replicating its original design, and triumphantly reopened in 2010.
Adding to the intrigue, Swift’s own Watch Hill mansion, affectionately known as “Holiday House,” is located just down the road from the Ocean House. Purchased by Swift in 2013 for $17.75 million in cash, the 12,000-square-foot estate features eight bedrooms. This proximity suggests a seamless integration of venues, with the hotel potentially housing guests if the main ceremony or reception were to take place at Swift’s residence.
A recent visit to the Ocean House during the holiday season showcased its inherent charm and elegance. Even amidst the colder, darker months, the hotel’s historic allure was undeniable. A plaque at the entrance proudly displayed its 1868 founding date.
Securing a reservation at the hotel’s bistro, a more casual dining option than its fine-dining counterpart, required booking two weeks in advance, hinting at the venue’s popularity, particularly during peak seasons.
The lobby of the Ocean House exuded a bright and welcoming atmosphere, adorned with a large woven rug and festive decorations for its Peter Pan-themed New Year’s Eve party. The space buzzed with a comfortable energy, filled with hotel guests and diners. A grand sitting room, complete with a fireplace and a pianist, contributed to a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance.
The decor throughout the hotel leans heavily into a nautical New England theme, featuring sailboat imagery and even a painting commemorating those lost on the Titanic. Beyond its luxurious accommodations, the resort offers unique experiences, including a “land and sea” option where guests can stay aboard a restored 1937 yacht, previously graced by historical figures such as Shirley Temple and President Roosevelt.
The hotel comprises 49 guest rooms and 20 signature suites. Should Swift and Kelce choose the Ocean House for their wedding, the limited number of rooms suggests a more intimate affair rather than a sprawling celebrity bash. However, the nearby Westerly State Airport offers convenient access for private jet travel.
While the Ocean House has not confirmed any wedding plans, a notable surge in room rates around June 13, Swift’s rumored wedding date, has fueled the speculation. A one-night stay on June 12 or 13 is listed at a staggering $9,544, compared to $2,073 for the subsequent Friday and Saturday. Furthermore, the hotel’s website currently shows no room availability for those mid-June dates.
A Culinary Experience Fit for Stars
The main hotel bar is situated within the bistro restaurant, which operates year-round, serving “casual, seasonally inspired dishes.” For fine dining, guests can indulge in COAST. During warmer months, additional dining options include the Verandah Raw Bar, Dalia (a tapas restaurant), and Théa at Dune Cottage, a beachside restaurant exclusively for hotel guests.
The bistro’s open chef’s kitchen provided a glimpse into the culinary artistry, while the overall dining room exuded an elevated yet comfortable vibe with plush seating and rich wooden tables.
During a recent dinner, our party, after a few glasses of chardonnay, couldn’t resist inquiring about the wedding rumors. Our waiter, predictably, remained discreet, noting that staff are often informed of high-profile events only on the day of, or shortly before, to prevent leaks and crowds.
Setting aside the wedding intrigue, the dinner itself was a highlight. We began with perfectly crispy calamari ($22) served with a creamy lemon aioli, and a side of flavorful, bacon-topped Brussels sprouts ($12).
For entrées, the short rib ($45), a winter menu staple, proved supremely tender, served on a bed of mashed potatoes and Broccolini. Another diner enjoyed the seared Stonington scallops ($50), sourced from nearby Connecticut, nestled atop a smoky almond romesco with fava beans and chorizo.
The scallops were beautifully caramelized with a plump, buttery interior. The classic steak frites ($40), featuring a grilled hanger steak cooked to medium-rare perfection with garlic butter and bearnaise sauce, was also a standout.
The fries were crispy, light, and perfectly salted, offering impressive value for a seemingly simple dish.
Dessert concluded the meal with a delectable hazelnut tart ($14), a harmonious blend of chocolate and tart raspberry sauce. Including wine, appetizers, entrées, and dessert, the total bill for our party came to $292.72.
The Verdict: A Perfect Match?
The Ocean House effortlessly balances grandeur with a sense of privacy, offering impeccable service from its discreet staff, who are clearly adept at maintaining confidentiality. Its prime location, just steps from Watch Hill’s tranquil village center and mere minutes from Swift’s own Rhode Island retreat, positions it as an ideal choice.
The historic resort provides the exclusivity, romance, and quintessential coastal New England charm that would undoubtedly befit a pop superstar’s summer wedding. While official confirmation remains elusive, the Ocean House certainly seems to tick all the boxes for a truly memorable celebration.