5 Historic American Hotels For An Unforgettable Stay

A great trip can be significantly elevated by a stay at a memorable hotel. And what's more memorable than lodging at a place renowned for hosting American presidents and Hollywood celebrities? Filled with history, the hotels included on this list will give you a window into the past while offering an unforgettable stay in the present. This video was made with Ezvid Wikimaker.

5 Distinguished American Hotels Filled With History

Name Location
Amway Grand Plaza Grand Rapids, Michigan
Hotel Figueroa Los Angeles, California
The Kennebunk Inn Kennebunk, Maine
The Mayflower Hotel Washington, D.C.
Kimpton Sir Francis Drake San Francisco, California

A Glimpse of Hotel Figueroa

Things To Bring on Your Next Vacation

  • Travel size toiletries that won't take up too much space
  • Keep your dirty clothes separate from the clean ones with a laundry bag
  • A money belt for easy access to cash & cards
  • If you're traveling with kids, you might want to bring along some games
  • Depending on your preference, either a backpack or some nice luggage
  • Cozy pillows can improve any long flight or car trip
  • If you're going to a country where you don't know the language, a translator can be a big help
  • A travel mug for your coffee or tea

The Mayflower Hotel - Where Presidents Meet

In Depth

Whether you are looking to visit the west coast, the east coast, or anything in between, the United States of America boasts a wealth of historic hotels that offer glimpses into yesteryear. From glamorous spots frequented by celebrities and politicians to traditional lodging in quaint towns, these establishments combine history with modern comfort. In no particular order, here are 5 American hotels with rich histories and memorable offerings.

Starting at #1 we have the Amway Grand Plaza in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. Located alongside the scenic Grand River, the hotel offers rooms in both its historic wing as well as its modern glass tower. Built in the early 20th century as the Pantlind hotel, Amway Grand Plaza's historic building boasts huge chandeliers, lush finishes, and other luxuries of a bygone era.

In addition to delivering quality experiences for both guests and employees, the Amway Grand Plaza works to promote the preservation of its 20th-century space. It is a member of the Historic Hotels of America, the National Trust for Historic Preservation's official program for recognizing America's finest historic hotels. The Amway Grand Plaza also strives to protect the environment through energy efficient lighting, recycling programs, and other green initiatives.

In addition to delivering quality experiences for both guests and employees, the Amway Grand Plaza works to promote the preservation of its 20th-century space.

Our pick for #2 is Hotel Figueroa, a historic spot that takes us to downtown Los Angeles. It was originally founded in 1926 by the YWCA as a women's hotel. At the time, most concierges would not allow solo female travelers to check in without a chaperone. The Figueroa provided a progressive alternative. While today the establishment welcomes guests of any gender, it takes pride in maintaining a forward thinking and creative atmosphere.

Designed in the Spanish Mediterranean style, Hotel Figueroa has recently been restored to all of its original glory. In addition to its 268 rooms and suites, the hotel boasts three restaurants, galleries with original art by Los Angeles based female artists, and a lushly landscaped swimming pool. It hosts a variety of cultural events that attract travelers and locals alike, creating a unique experience for all.

For our #3 pick we travel across the country to The Kennebunk Inn in Maine. Located in a quaint oceanside village of the same name, the inn is housed in a historic building built as the primary residence of a wealthy local back in 1799. It remained a private home until 1926, when it was converted into a hotel. Today, visitors can enjoy 14 rooms and suites, each uniquely named and styled after a United States president.

It remained a private home until 1926, when it was converted into a hotel.

Beyond the lodging, The Kennebunk Inn offers an unparalleled dining experience at the Academe, a brasserie style restaurant located on the building's first floor. Offering classic Maine cuisine,the restaurant sources all of its ingredients locally. Visitors may also take in the pleasures of the surrounding area, including beaches, nature preserves, and museums.

At #4 we have The Mayflower Hotel, a landmark establishment in Washington, DC. Founded in 1925, it is the city's longest operating hotel. Throughout the years it has witnessed great moments in United States history; it hosted a luncheon for Charles Lindbergh, housed Franklin D. Roosevelt the night before his inauguration, and even played a practical joke on Winston Churchill. Today, The Mayflower offers guests a look at this history along with modern conveniences and personalized services.

In addition to rooms and suites that mirror the elegance and sophistication of Washington, D.C., The Mayflower Hotel offers a variety of cultural experiences. Located in bustling downtown D.C., it has an on-site restaurant known as the Edgar Bar & Kitchen. This classic American brasserie is named after J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI director who dined there daily for almost twenty years. The Mayflower Hotel also showcases original artwork by local artists, and offers personal guided tours of the city.

This classic American brasserie is named after J. Edgar Hoover, the FBI director who dined there daily for almost twenty years.

Finally, we have the Kimpton Sir Francis Drake Hotel in San Francisco at #5. Located in Union Square, the epicenter of the city's elegant shopping district, this iconic spot evokes old world charm with its grand staircases, sleek marble walls, gilded ceilings, and crystal chandeliers. This historic establishment opened to much fanfare in 1928, when Hollywood celebrities, the California governor, and over 10,000 people came to soak in the glamour over a two-day period.

Today, the Sir Francis Drake Hotel retains that glamour while adding a touch of modern vibrancy. In addition to its serene guest rooms, visitors can enjoy a cocktail at the bustling lobby bar, fine Italian cuisine at Scala's Bistro, and nightlife at Lizzie's Starlight on the 21st floor. Event spaces also host weddings, corporate events, and other get togethers.