Back then, the building was the busy train station for the Louisville and Nashville railroad. It was transformed into a hotel in 1984. The old depot was renovated to house the main lobby, two bars and retail stores. The former baggage and storage area became the restaurant and ballroom. Guest rooms are contained in a modern high-rise tower that was constructed behind the original station.
Trains still run behind the hotel, but the depot is several blocks away.
If you're into horseback riding, this 60-acre dude ranch near Bushnell in Central Florida may appeal to you. The ranch does not have a pool, but is installing three hot tubs. On a typical weekend stay, guests at Ho's Ponderosa take an hour's horseback ride in the ranch arena after check-in Friday afternoon, followed by another hour's trail ride in Withlacoochee State Park. After a home-cooked dinner, a cowboy singer entertains guests. On Saturday morning, breakfast is followed by a four-hour trail ride and a picnic on the banks of the Withlacoochee River.