12 Must-Visit Historic Hotels Across the USA
You can simultaneously step back in time and into the modern world at historic hotels across the United States. These fantastic places are more than places to rest; they are living museums with fascinating stories of the bygone era.
These hotels put you in the places where legendary figures lived, or impressive architecture drenched in nostalgia still stands today. If you are interested in exploring history or are a luxury seeker looking for unusual accommodation, here are 12 must-visit historic hotels across the country that present a perfect mix of history and luxury.
Hot Springs, Virginia – The Omni Homestead Resort
The Omni Homestead Resort dates back to 1766 and is one of America’s oldest resorts. At this hotel, guests can enjoy a window into the nation’s early years while benefiting from world-class amenities. It is famous for hosting 23 US presidents.
It has mineral-rich hot springs and fancy golf courses, a heaven for leisure and relaxation. Make sure to visit Jefferson Pools, the site of Thomas Jefferson’s 1818 visit.
The Plaza Hotel, New York City
Since 1907, The Plaza Hotel has been a luxury icon and reminds of New York’s storied history. A grand world of its own, The Plaza was made famous by the roaring twenties soirées of F. Scott Fitzgerald, to its most recent incarnation to host luminaries from around the globe.
Its humble design inspired hundreds of films, including Home Alone 2 and The Great Gatsby. The hotel is also famous for its historic afternoon tea service in its Palm Court.
The Greenbrier – White Sulphur Springs
Nicknamed “America’s Resort,” The Greenbrier has welcomed guests since 1778. It was a site of a retreat from the bustle of the city for royalty, presidents, and celebrities, and its sprawling grounds and striking Georgian architecture made it one.
Visitors can tour The Greenbrier’s Cold War–era bunker, an emergency shelter built for Congress, an interesting fact for a property that isn’t precisely hiding behind any trees.
The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, Riverside, California
Mission Inn began as a hotel and eating house in 1876. It is an architectural masterpiece of Spanish, Gothic, and Moorish styles. Ten US presidents have dined at this hotel.
Moreover, Richard Nixon and Pat spent their honeymoon in one of the suites. The hotel boasts more than 200 years of unique history. Capture captivating memories on the exquisite courtyards and breathtaking chapels!
Hotel Del Coronado, California
Hotel Del, popularly known as ‘The Del’, started operations in 1888. It’s a Victorian-era masterpiece overlooking the Pacific Ocean on its private beach.
Marilyn Monroe, the blond bombshell, lived in this hotel. A part of the ‘Some Like It Hot’ show was cast here. Its famous ghost legend, Kate Morgan, adds an intriguing touch to its history.
La Fonda on the Plaza, Santa Fe, New Mexico
For over 90 years, La Fonda has sat on the edge of the historic Santa Fe Plaza with Southwest charm in an adobe-style hotel. Comprising cocktail bars, a yoga room, and a locally famed salon, it inhabits a site that’s been an inn since the early 1600s.
The interior immerses guests in local art and history through vibrant murals and hand—carved furniture. But don’t miss the cozy rooftop bar with sweeping views of Santa Fe.
The Drake Hotel-Chicago, Illinois
Since 1920, The Drake Hotel has been the height of Chicago’s luxury, with opulence and style. It’s located along the Magnificent Mile and has played host to Princess Diana and Elizabeth Taylor. The Palm Court hosts its nationally recognized afternoon high tea service if you want a genuine experience.
The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado
Combining the history of an actual luxury hotel with ghostly allure, The Stanley Hotel opened in 1909 and is best known as the inspiration for Stephen King’s The Shining. Its grand architecture in the Rockies brings an enchantment that graciously plays right into welcoming visitors.
It is a spine-tingling adventure in itself. To experience this for yourself, join one of its ghost tours, which take place every night.
Peabody Memphis — Memphis, Tennessee
Dating to 1869, The Peabody Memphis is beloved for its grand Southern charm and quirky tradition—the twice-daily “Peabody Duck March.”
Trained ducks march from the rooftop to the lobby. Beyond this spectacle stand its storied halls; history has made many moments beautiful.
Château Élan-Braselton, Georgia
Château Élan, blending winery luxury with historic elegance, dates back to the mid-1900s but boasts centuries-old French design.
Surrounded by vineyards, its château, built in the European style, provides a perfect equilibrium of rest and history. Relish wine-tasting tours amidst the breathtaking beauty of this one-of-a-kind destination.
The Waldorf Astoria, New York City
The Waldorf Astoria is one of the most famous names in hospitality. Opening in 1931, it epitomized Art Deco sophistication.
It has hosted countless dignitaries worldwide, including three US Presidents—Herbert Hoover, Dwight Eisenhower, and John F. Kennedy—and has been a centerpiece of world events.
Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island
The Grand Hotel, built in 1886, is best known for having the world’s most extended front porch. Its bright, Victorian–style design and fantastic lake views take guests back to a simpler, more luxurious time.
Fun fact: The hotel was a featured location on Somewhere in Time (1980) with Christopher Reeve.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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