Some hotels don’t just provide a place to rest—they tell stories. From grand halls where presidents once stayed to seaside resorts that inspired Hollywood legends, these 9 historic hotels capture the essence of a different era while continuing to offer world-class comfort. Whether you’re drawn to old-world luxury, architectural beauty, or the whispers of history echoing through elegant lobbies, these nine historic hotels are destinations every traveler should experience at least once.
The Plaza — New York City, New York
Since opening its doors in 1907, The Plaza has become a symbol of New York sophistication. Overlooking Central Park, this legendary hotel has hosted royalty, movie stars, and literary icons for more than a century.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Plaza embodies the glamour of early 20th-century Manhattan, yet it feels timeless. From its gilded lobby to its marble staircases, every detail reflects a bygone era of elegance. It has appeared in countless films, including The Great Gatsby and Home Alone 2, cementing its place in pop culture.
Don’t Miss
- Afternoon tea under the glass dome of The Palm Court.
- A walk through Central Park, just steps away.
- The hotel’s in-house boutiques for luxury shopping.
The Breakers — Palm Beach, Florida
Built in 1896 by Henry Flagler, The Breakers is one of America’s most iconic oceanfront resorts. Designed in the Italian Renaissance style, the hotel combines grandeur with tropical beauty.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Breakers feels more like a palace than a hotel. Its hand-painted ceilings, imported marble, and ocean views make every corner breathtaking. Despite its historic charm, it offers modern amenities, private beaches, and fine dining that rival the best contemporary resorts.
Don’t Miss
- The elegant seafood at The Seafood Bar overlooking the ocean.
- A walk through the ornate main lobby modeled after a Roman palace.
- Exploring Palm Beach’s Worth Avenue for boutique shopping and art.
Hotel del Coronado — Coronado, California
With its red turrets, sprawling verandas, and oceanfront views, the Hotel del Coronado has been captivating guests since 1888. Known simply as “The Del,” it’s a masterpiece of Victorian architecture and one of California’s most beloved landmarks.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Few hotels have such a fascinating mix of glamour and legend. Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe, was filmed here, and stories of celebrity guests, presidents, and even a resident ghost add to its allure. Despite its fame, The Del maintains a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Don’t Miss
- Sunset dining on the beachfront terrace.
- The guided history tour of the property.
- A morning walk along Coronado Beach, one of the most beautiful in the U.S.
The Greenbrier — White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia
Known as “America’s Resort,” The Greenbrier is a grand estate that has hosted guests since 1778. Nestled in the Allegheny Mountains, it combines natural beauty, architectural splendor, and a touch of mystery.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Greenbrier is famous for its colorful interiors designed by Dorothy Draper and for its Cold War-era secret bunker, once meant to house members of Congress. The property spans 11,000 acres and offers everything from golf and spa treatments to falconry and horseback riding.
Don’t Miss
- The bunker tour beneath the hotel.
- Afternoon tea in the Upper Lobby.
- Exploring the resort’s lush gardens and walking trails.
The Biltmore — Coral Gables, Florida
When The Biltmore opened in 1926, it was the tallest building in Florida and the centerpiece of Coral Gables’ luxury lifestyle. Its Mediterranean Revival design, complete with a soaring bell tower and a massive swimming pool, continues to impress guests nearly a century later.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Biltmore blends tropical relaxation with European sophistication. Its guest list includes presidents, movie stars, and even gangster legends from the Jazz Age. Today, it remains one of America’s most beautiful historic hotels.
Don’t Miss
- The famous Sunday brunch in the grand ballroom.
- A swim in the historic pool once graced by Esther Williams.
- A round of golf on the adjacent 18-hole championship course.
The Brown Palace — Denver, Colorado
Opened in 1892, The Brown Palace is one of Denver’s most cherished landmarks. Its stunning atrium, triangular shape, and handcrafted details make it an architectural masterpiece.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Brown Palace captures the grandeur of the Gilded Age while offering modern luxury. Its long list of guests includes U.S. presidents, The Beatles, and countless dignitaries. The atmosphere feels both historic and vibrant, with live jazz and fine dining adding to its timeless appeal.
Don’t Miss
- Afternoon tea in the atrium accompanied by live harp music.
- The guided historical tour of the property.
- Cocktails at Churchill Bar, a favorite among locals.
The Peabody — Memphis, Tennessee
Known as the “South’s Grand Hotel,” The Peabody has been welcoming guests since 1869. Beyond its beauty and Southern charm, it’s best known for a one-of-a-kind tradition—the Peabody Ducks.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Every morning and evening, a parade of trained ducks marches through the lobby to the hotel fountain, delighting guests of all ages. But beyond the novelty, The Peabody represents Southern hospitality at its finest, with impeccable service, history, and elegance.
Don’t Miss
- The daily Peabody Duck March at 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.
- Live music and cocktails in the lobby lounge.
- A short walk to Beale Street for Memphis barbecue and blues.
The Stanley Hotel — Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park is nestled in the Rocky Mountains, The Stanley Hotel is a grand Colonial Revival property built in 1909. Its stately architecture and breathtaking mountain views make it one of the most memorable stays in the U.S.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
The Stanley is famous for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining. While some guests come for its spooky reputation, most stay for its natural beauty, classic design, and elegant atmosphere. It’s the perfect mix of mountain serenity and literary intrigue.
Don’t Miss
- The ghost tour exploring its paranormal legends.
- Scenic hikes in nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.
- Dinner at the Cascades Restaurant featuring local ingredients.
The Royal Hawaiian — Honolulu, Hawaii
Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” The Royal Hawaiian in Honolulu, opened in 1927 and remains a symbol of Waikiki’s golden age. Its pastel façade and Spanish-Moorish design evoke a tropical fantasy brought to life.
Why It’s a Must-Visit
Few hotels blend history and paradise as seamlessly as The Royal Hawaiian. It once hosted Hawaiian royalty and early Hollywood stars, and today it continues to represent timeless island luxury. Its location on Waikiki Beach places you steps from sun, surf, and world-class dining.
Don’t Miss
- A beachfront luau under the stars.
- Signature pink-hued pastries at The Royal Hawaiian Bakery.
- Paddleboarding or sailing directly from the hotel’s private beach.
Why Historic Hotels Still Matter
Historic hotels are living works of art. They preserve craftsmanship, culture, and the stories that shaped travel across generations. Staying in one feels like walking through history while enjoying every modern comfort. Each lobby holds echoes of music, laughter, and conversations from travelers who came before—and each visit adds another chapter to that legacy.
TravelPal helps travelers find these timeless stays effortlessly. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of The Plaza, the ocean views of The Del, or the mountain mystique of The Stanley, TravelPal makes it simple to plan an unforgettable journey through history, architecture, and style.
Plan a trip to one of these historic hotels at TravelPal.ai