Experience Luxury & History at the 10 Best Historic Hotels in the US
Historic Hotels of America recently announced more than a dozen winners for its annual Awards of Excellence, recognizing some of the nation’s finest historic hotels.
Historic Hotels of America provides recognition for historic hotels around the nation, offering travelers a chance to stay in places considered to be the pinnacle of hospitality in part because of their commitment to service, their architecture, and their sense of authenticity. Many of these hotels are also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
1. JW Marriott Savannah Plant Riverside District
Savannah, Georgia
Located right in the heart of Savannah, a stay at the JW Marriott affords guests the chance to explore the best that the city has to offer.
Guests of all ages can explore the downtown, which includes a shopping district, live entertainment, bars, and an art gallery.
When they return to the hotel, guests can soak in the timeless elegance of the hotel, which was once the site of a power plant, and the city. The hotel offers on-site dining, a spa and so much more.
This highly-rated hotel is all about offering guests an elegant experience with curated experiences that make every customer feel special.
2. Crescent Hotel & Spa
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Billed as “America’s most haunted hotel,” this northern Arkansas hotel is nonetheless a popular spot for travelers.
Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, the Crescent Hotel is renowned as a symbol of hospitality in the state, and the palatial structure is perfect for a dream wedding, a romantic getaway, or even a family vacation.
Haunted or not, the Crescent Hotel offers a variety of accommodations, including cottages and suites, and plenty of amenities to make some lifetime memories.
The hotel offers casual dining experiences, fun-filled events, and celebrations that make staying here feel like a party.
3. Mohonk Mountain House
New Paltz, New York
Situated in the heart of the Hudson Valley, this Victorian-style castle resort is just 90 miles from New York City and offers travelers the best of all worlds: Beautiful scenery, a quaint getaway, and farm-to-table cuisine.
Mohonk Mountain House has routinely been named one of the best places to stay in its region and in the nation. That’s because it offers guests a variety of captivating events, award-winning spa services, and fun activities like paddleboarding and tomahawk throwing.
No matter what kind of traveler stays here, there’s something for everyone. Guests can make their stay as active or as relaxing as they choose, but at the end of the day, they’ll be rejuvenated by their stay.
4. Hassayampa Inn
Prescott, Arizona
Built in 1927, the Hassayampa Inn is a beloved local landmark with a unique history. During the 1920s, residents challenged designer Henry Trost to design a grand hotel and residents bought shares in it for $1 each.
The iconic red brick building has long been a centerpiece of downtown Prescott. Its name which loosely means “the river that loses itself,” works well because the hotel was designed to be a place for visitors to unwind.
Today, visitors can stay here and marvel at the hotel’s historic features, vibrant murals, and much more. Visitors can enjoy a range of amenities, including dining at the Peacock Dining Room, which offers top-flight meals in a cozy atmosphere.
5. Skytop Lodge
Skytop, Pennsylvania
Opened in 1928, this Northeast Pennsylvania landmark is situated in the Poconos and offers elegance in a country club-type setting.
The hotel has been described as a Dutch Colonial field-stone castle, so visitors may feel as though they’ve entered the grounds of a historic English estate.
Apart from comfortable rooms, Skytop Lounge offers visitors plenty of fun activities. Golfing enthusiasts will love the award-winning Skytop Lounge golf course, and visitors of all ages can enjoy a bevy of fun seasonal activities.
Another great amenity is Skytop’s Adventure Center. Since the resort is located in the Poconos, the center offers scenic ziplines, paintball fields, downhill skiing, and a lot more.
6. The Edgewater
Madison, Wisconsin
Opened in 1948, and situated on the shore of Lake Mendota in the Midwest, the Edgewater is not only historic, but it’s renowned as a prime example of Art Moderne architecture, which includes a streamlined look, a flat roof, and horizontal window bands.
Visitors who love sightseeing are close to both the Wisconsin State Capitol, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the vibrant scene of downtown Madison.
The Edgewater has more than 200 rooms, offers plenty of elegance, first-class amenities, and several on-site restaurants offering the finest in Midwest cuisine.
7. Hilton Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Chitown is known for its many landmarks, but Hilton Chicago still manages to stand out as the city’s third-largest hotel and one that’s renowned for hosting some very famous dignitaries.
Visitors here can soak in the history and scenic of the city as they gaze out at Lake Michigan, the Museum Campus, as well as Grant Park
With more than 1,500 rooms and three on-site restaurants, the hotel is a favorite for visitors staying in the Windy City and has seen several presidents stay there during their time in office.
8. Martinique New York on Broadway, Curio Collection by Hilton
New York, New York
In a city full of historic landmarks and tall buildings, Martinique New York in Manhattan still manages to find a way to stand out.
Opened in 1898, the Martinique has more than 500 rooms and is renowned for its French Renaissance-style construction, including a green mansard roof and decorated windows.
For visitors who want to experience the true hustle and bustle of NYC, this hotel puts them right in the center of the action and just a short distance away from popular places like the Empire State Building and Madison Square Garden.
When visitors step inside the ornately designed hotel, with its exquisite woodwork and its grand staircase, they’ll feel as if they’ve been transported back in time.
9. Grand Hotel
Michigan’s Mackinac Island is one of the state’s most popular tourist spots and the Grand Hotel may just be the crown jewel.
From the stunning views of Lake Huron that can be seen from it to its iconic architecture (including the world’s longest porch), the Grand Hotel remains an iconic landmark that’s beloved by visitors of all ages.
The hotel has nearly 400 rooms and amenities such as multiple restaurants, several shops, and a full-service spa. But it also offers plenty of historical charm, from its historic decor to its beautifully maintained gardens.
It’s a one-of-a-kind experience that’s perfect for visitors looking for natural beauty, luxury, and a heavy dose of history.
10. The Savoy at 21c Museum Hotel Kansas City
Kansas City, Missouri
Built in 1888, the Savoy was the nation’s oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi River until it closed for renovations in 2016.
The Savoy Grill was founded in 1903 and was a mainstay among fine dining enthusiasts in Kansas City, who especially enjoyed its steaks and seafood. Former President Harry Truman was a frequent visitor and the Savoy’s famous Booth No. 4 was known as the president’s booth, hosting at least three presidents besides Truman.
Today, visitors can enjoy happy hour at the Savoy Tuesday-Friday, Sunday night wine specials, specialty cocktails, and dinner options that include lamb, steaks, and seafood.
Experience the Best Historic Hotels in the Nation
The 10 historic hotels are the best in the nation for a reason: They’re beloved national landmarks with immense historical significance that are dedicated to providing a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable experience to their guests.
From historic landmarks in the heart of major U.S. cities to cozy hotels on the shoreline to castle-like accommodations, these historic hotels are the best at what they do and they have something to offer travelers of all types.