Situated in the heart of Cullman’s west side is a unique new place to stay, packed with Cullman history and one-of-a-kind style.
“The Flying Fifty Hotel is a boutique establishment featuring seven expansive suites, each celebrating a unique aspect of Cullman’s history,” said Challie Knetter, who owns the hotel along with her husband, Paul.
Each suite is a nod to a specific aspect of the area’s rich story, and six of them have private balconies.
Knetter offered a glimpse of the themed suites:
- Frankweiler: Honoring Colonel Cullmann’s birthplace and our sister city, this suite showcases Cullman's German heritage with photos, a dirndl and lederhosen
- Lakes: Inspired by the stunning lakes of Cullman
- Wallace: Dedicated to Wallace State Community College, highlighting its significance
- Heritage: Celebrating our town's rich heritage, including festivals and farming traditions
- Founders: Showcasing businesses that played a pivotal role in Cullman's development
- Steeples: Focusing on local churches, this suite features five paintings by local artists and offers a view of seven churches from its balcony
- Wilderness: Highlighting the natural beauty of north Alabama and Cullman
“The concept of smaller hybrid boutique hotels is gaining popularity nationwide,” Knetter said. “John Riley, president of Cullman's Savings Bank, stayed at a similar establishment and was inspired to help bring a place to Cullman that tells the town's unique story.”
The design of the hotel and the pieces inside are also quintessentially Cullman.
“Local designer Amy Wood designed the hotel, blending influences from the 1950s with modern touches to create a distinctive aesthetic,” Knetter shared. “And we proudly feature works by local artists throughout the hotel. Notably, Paul Moss, a local craftsman, created several custom pieces, including the bed in the Wilderness suite and the conference room table.”
On the hotel’s website, the Knetters share, “Travel back in time and experience a one-of-a-kind stay at our centrally located boutique hotel in downtown Cullman. Newly designed with the 1950s in mind, our hotel’s namesake comes from the 47 men, known as the ‘The Flying Fifty,’ who played an important role in creating a brighter future for our community. We hope to carry on their legacy by highlighting the spirit of Cullman for years to come.”
Planning for the hotel began in 2022, and the doors opened in May of this year.
“Many guests are surprised to learn that The Flying Fifty Hotel is a brand-new building,” Knetter said. “Its unique architecture often leads them to believe it has been renovated from an older structure.”
Learn more about the hotel’s story and peruse the beautiful suites at www.theflyingfifty.com.
"Travel back in time and experience a one-of-a-kind stay."