Best Historical Hotels in USA

With a former life as a bank, this century-old building is somewhat of a city landmark – what was once the vaults is now a fancy cocktail lounge. There’s also an award-winning Italian restaurant, Centro (don’t miss the handmade pasta and 900-year-old sourdough brick oven pizzas), The Garden of Eden Rooftop Lounge, the family-run Heinen’s Market to grab any grocery necessities or treats (look up to get a glimpse of the venue’s Tiffany stained-glass rotunda) and the Ledger Bar for beers and bites. Bring your pooch along for the stay too – Metropolitan at The 9 has an indoor dog park.

As with all within the Kimpton collection, this hotel echoes the personality of its city in a playful, crafty, yet always sophisticated manner. Housed in a turn-of-the-20th-century brick building, it’s a popular spot for craft coffee and farm-to-table food. Custom-designed Micro Kickboard scooters for children, and Nutcase helmets, can be borrowed from the concierge, there’s a fitness centre with a Peloton Bike, Wag! Membership for those travelling with dogs, free guitar rental and a nightly wine hour. Eclectically decorated bedrooms come with Atelier Bloem bath amenities and you can request a plant be placed in yours ahead of arrival.

The century-old LeVeque Tower is the home of this 149-bedroom boutique hotel, whose decor pays gentle homage to the art deco era, with vintage style accents among the plush furnishings. Guests can dine at the Keep Restaurant & Bar, a modern French brasserie and drink signature cocktails from the bar. Plus there’s an in-house show “Rare Magic” for those seeking some mesmerising evening entertainment. For the best rooms in the house, book one of the six indulgent suites – you’ll be rewarded with truly epic views of the Scioto River Mile.

Stay in the oldest hotel in town. The landmark red-brick building is located close to the German Village. Recently renovated guest rooms come with bold blue accents, contemporary prints, HDTVs and Westin Heavenly Beds® made up with crisp white linen. There’s a new in-house eatery at The Westin; Bar Cicchetti, a chic modern dining room and bar by the celebrity chef and TV personality Fabio Viviani. And there’s a signature WestinWORKOUT® Fitness Studio.

Hotel Emma, located in San Antonio’s historic Pearl District was originally established in 1894 as the Pearl Brewery, the building has been meticulously transformed into a 146-room riverfront hotel, preserving its industrial heritage while offering contemporary comforts. The décor combines industrial elements with sophisticated design, creating a unique and inviting atmosphere. Accommodations range from well-appointed guest rooms to seven distinctive top-floor suites, each featuring plush furnishings, fine linens, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy culinary delights at on-site establishments such as Supper, Larder, and Sternewirth, or relax by the year-round outdoor pool and fitness center. Situated adjacent to the River Walk and just 1.3 miles from The Alamo, Hotel Emma offers convenient access to San Antonio’s cultural and historical attractions, making it an ideal destination for discerning travelers seeking both luxury and a connection to the city’s vibrant past.

Built in 1909, The St. Anthony has been sensitively restored to preserve its original elegance and charm. Retaining original marble floors, crystal chandeliers and ornate plasterwork, it’s no surprise that this has been designated a National Historic Landmark. Inside are 277 bedrooms, The Loggia (a casual all-day restaurant), the Haunt Lounge (for handcrafted cocktails and small plates) and a stunning ballroom. On the rooftop, you’ll find a pool and bar with breathtaking views of the city. The hotel also offers a complimentary shuttle service to the nearby Pearl Brewery complex.

The LaSalle Hotel in Chicago is the latest addition to Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Located in the heart of Chicago’s financial district, the hotel is a perfect choice for the sophisticated business traveller. The hotel occupies the top five floors of a historically iconic landmark from famed Chicago architect Daniel Burnham and offers guests plush and spacious guest rooms and suites – with a classic Art Deco style and club-like vibe running throughout the hotel. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Grill on 21, offers a modern twist on a classic American grill and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Guests can make use of a great range of wellness facilities including guided yoga, meditation and priority access to the spa at the JW Marriott just below the hotel.

Once a hat factory, this 14 storey building dates back to 1912. The sleek Kimpton brand has retained its heritage with vintage accents. Wingback seats, velvets, marble, grandiose curtains and bold patterns create a homely, yet smart vibe. Monaco Chicago has 191 rooms (feel free to bring your dog for the stay, it’s a Kimpton policy) an upscale take on a Midwest eatery, fitness suite and bar. Treatments are available in-room and if you’ve forgotten something be sure to ask the front desk, they’re stocked with everything you’re likely to need during your stay.

An international go-to brand, Hilton occupies a city landmark in Chicago, with this beautifully restored 1920s hotel. It’s close to the DuSable Bridge, offering centrality and many rooms with river views. The three-level rooftop lounge – a new addition during the 2016 refurb – is where the best panoramic vistas are to be enjoyed and is a very popular spot for marriage proposals. A 22 storey glass tower was also added during the overhaul when the interiors received a contemporary facelift. Londonhouse also has two restaurants, a full-service spa and a fitness centre.

Located in River North and overlooking the Chicago River, is Ludwig Mies van der Rohe’s Bauhaus style 1970s architectural triumph. Steel, expanses of glass and fine art create a trendy yet opulent airy feel. The Chuan Spa is a haven of tranquillity, with a peaceful pool area, saunas and steam room. Chef Ricardo Jarquin serves American-Italian dishes at Travelle Kitchen + Bar, while club level guests enjoy access to an exclusive 12th-floor lounge. Families are welcome and can even bring up to two dogs and a cat, making it one of the most pet-friendly places in the city.

Built in the 1920s, the Viceroy’s terracotta and brick exterior has remained. But an entirely new 18 storey glass building has been erected behind, filled with mid-century furnishings, all imagined and created by Goettsch Partners and TAL Studio. It’s an arty design hotel, slightly high-brow – the grand lobby even sports a poetry wall. A rooftop pool offers summer swims, plus there’s a fitness centre, ample meeting facilities for business travellers and a rooftop lounge, Devereaux. A seasonally changing menu from chef Lee Wolen can be found at the in-house restaurant Somerset, with the option of sharing family meals, as well as fine cuisine.

Named after Chicago’s own Gwen Lux, a pioneering female sculptor of the 20th century, this Mariott property is found in the McGraw-Hill building. Glamorous art deco interiors reflect the building’s origins with 311 rooms in taupe and gold palettes. Upstairs at the Gwen is the hotel’s vibrant rooftop bar, but the alfresco facilities aren’t limited to libation. In summer, guests can experience unique urban glamping on the hotel’s 16th-floor terrace. Sleep in a queen-sized Black Pearl bed in a lavishly furnished huge bohemian Lotus Belle tent. Meanwhile back indoors, the hotel’s restaurant, Kostali, serves delicious North African/European cuisine.