You might not believe in time machines, but you should believe it’s possible to travel years back. If you have doubts, the historic hotels will prove they can take you for a trip through time. With old decorations, antique furniture, mosaic floors and shining chandeliers, they don’t let their history to be forgotten. For years and years their rooms were collecting stories, memories and reflections. As soon as you cross the doors, you’ll feel the vibe of old times floating between the walls. Yet, despite of their age, these hotels are prepared to host modern travelers. They’ve been equipped with all the amenities a contemporary guest might need, but this transition was made gently enough not to destroy the antique charm. Here’s a list of 7 great historic hotels in the United States, perfect for travelers who love history, luxury and elegance.

  1. The Jefferson, Washington

A hotel can’t get more classy and luxurious than The Jefferson. As the property’s official websites accurately states, it’s the “Washington DC’s second most prestigious address”. It’s located very close to the White House and surrounded by fascinating historic sites. The Jefferson has been hosting guests since 1923, although in the beginning it was opened as luxury apartments. The interiors are filled with artefacts reminding of the hotel’s long history. There are also lots of Jefferson-themed details, such as the Book Room full of old volumes favored by the president.

  1. The Biltmore Hotel, Miami

The Biltmore Hotel was built during the Jazz Age (in 1926, to be specific) and that’s how it’s gained its special character. For years the hotel was hosting famous guests from Europe and Hollywood and entertaining them in the jazzy style. Big bands, parties, fashion shows, balls, sparkles and fanciful dresses, that’s what Biltmore was all about. Even though the Jazz Age is over, the hotel is not. During the war it served as a hospital, but its doors were reopened to tourists in 1980s.

  1. French Lick Resort, French Lick, Indiana

The resort’s history reaches back to 1845, when a physician called William Bowles decided to make a use out of the mineral springs located in the region. The next owner developed the property, added a new spa wing, adorned the interiors and made sure the guests could easily reach the hotel with trains and trolleys. Since then the resort has been expanding and gaining popularity, mostly because of the great springs mentioned above. Right now it’s combining historic value with modern facilities.

  1. Boston’s Lenox Hotel, Boston

Situated in the charming Back Bay area, the Boston’s Lenox is a lovely boutique hotel dating back to 1900. Inside of the hotel, you can still find wood-burning fireplaces, furniture, and decorations that are over 100 years old. There’s an authentic Boston Irish Pub for beer lovers, a business center for hard-working travelers, personalized concierge services and lots of other amenities for luxury-seekers.

  1. Hotel El Convento, San Juan, Puerto Rico

Located in a restored 350-year old building, Hotel El Convento is a paradise of history-lovers. It’s also a haven for those who seek a romantic getaway, relaxing vacation or sunny adventure. The gorgeous décor makes it warm and elegant at the same time, to make guests comfortable and cozy. The hotel’s story is long and eventful. It began in 17th century, when the property was built and used as a Carmelite convent. It then became a monastery, got closed and opened again, to finally become what it is today.

  1. The Inn at Leola Village, Lancaster

Built in 1873, the Inn at Leola Village is a lovely boutique hotel. The Dutch-inspired architecture makes it peaceful and cozy, and so do the Amish influences. Its location adds to this warm impression – the inn is set in a quiet place, amongst gorgeous gardens. Guests can be accommodated in several different buildings, such as the old Amish homes and cottages or a unique, restored tobacco barn.

  1. The Peninsula New York, New York

Situated in a 1905 Beaux-Arts building, the Peninsula New York can boast with beautiful limestone carvings and classical columns. At the same time, it meets the needs of the most modern and demanding guests. The property has kept its historic beauty, but opened itself to technology and contemporary facilities. This way, you can admire the antique decorations, take a bath in a marble bathroom, stay in a stylish room, lay down in a comfy bed and control the temperature with a special panel located right next to it, without even getting up. A perfect mix of history and modernity.

To look for more similar hotels, check the official website of Historic Hotels of America, which is a part of The National Trust for Historic Preservation.

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