Guide
11 Historic Hotels for a Romantic Getaway
Whether you are planning a romantic getaway for a new love, celebrating a milestone anniversary, or cherishing yourself on a solo retreat, here are eleven historic hotels across the country that are perfect for your romantic weekend away.
Each of these sites holds the potential of adventure for adrenaline seekers, chocolate lovers, spa enthusiasts, and birders. Plus, history buffs will find something to love at every listing, as every resort is a member of Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels.
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Photo By: Woodstock Inn, Historic Hotels of America
Woodstock Inn & Resort
One of the most romantic destinations in Vermont is nestled in the heart of Woodstock. Founded as a tavern in 1793, the Woodstock Inn has classic New England charm. Wander the delightful boutiques along the welcoming Main Street or enjoy the recreational activities in the Green Mountains. There's something to enjoy year-round from snowshoeing and skiing to golf and hiking. If you are a bird lover, do not miss the special falconry package to handle a trained Harris’ hawk during your stay.
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Photo By: Inn at Perry Cabin, Historic Hotels of America
Inn at Perry Cabin
The Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels, Maryland, built in the early 1800s, offers plenty of historically romantic charm. It is the perfect escape for a slow, relaxing getaway. The charming seaport town features year-round festivals. Enjoy an afternoon cruise from the harbor or watch the sunset from an Adirondack chair. Whether on a couple’s retreat or a recharging solo trip, you will experience a luxurious stay.
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Photo By: Wentworth Mansion, Historic Hotels of America
Wentworth Mansion
Located in historic downtown Charleston, South Carolina, the Wentworth Mansion is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Stroll cobblestone streets, explore Charleston’s secret alleyways, or enjoy private carriage rides for two. Relax in the whirlpool tubs or enjoy a couples massage. Take in a bird's eye view of the city from the hotel’s rooftop cupola. A special romance package includes romantic three-course dinner, couples massage, fresh flowers, and champagne with chocolate-covered strawberries.
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Photo By: Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa, Historic Hotels of America
Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa
Couples have been falling in love at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa since 1847. Whether you prefer a relaxing getaway with time spent in hammocks and hot tubs or an active vacation with sand volleyball and fishing, you’ll find both at the Grand Hotel Golf Resort & Spa in Point Clear, Alabama. You and your sweetheart can enjoy Mint Juleps and s’mores by fire pits, and watch the sunset on Mobile Bay from rocking chairs. There are both golf and spa packages for a romantic weekend away.
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Photo By: Palmer House, Historic Hotels of America
Palmer House
Downtown Chicago’s Palmer House is a celebration of love; it was originally built as an engagement gift to Bertha Honoré from Potter Palmer in 1871. The moment you step inside, you will be awash in romantic luxurious splendor. The Mezzanine overlooks 21 awe-inspiring Grecian frescos painted by French muralist Louis Pierre Rigal—all lit by 24-karat Louis Comfort Tiffany candelabras and chandeliers. It’s a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers. Bertha Honoré tasked the pastry chef to create a chocolate cake-like dessert that would be easy to transport for the 1893 World Fair, and so Palmer House Pastry Chef Joseph Sehl invented the brownie. Today, you can experience the world-famous Palmer House brownie in many forms: You can indulge in Bertha’s brownie latte, a brownie Manhattan cocktail, and a brownie cheesecake.
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Photo By: The American Club, Historic Hotels Of America
The American Club
Since 1873, Kohler has been immersed in the natural restorative properties of mineral-rich waters. The American Club, located in Kohler, Wisconsin, was founded in 1918 by Kohler Co. President Walter J. Kohler, Sr. as a lodging for the company’s workforce. Today, it’s a five-star hotel outfitted with state-of-the-art Kohler plumbing amenities. The American Club offers a Romantic Turndown amenity that includes rose petal turndown, wine, and chocolates. The spa provides soothing relaxation and rejuvenation for a restoring weekend getaway.
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Photo By: Omni La Mansion del Rio, San Antonio, Historic Hotels of America
Omni La Mansion del Rio, San Antonio
Nestled along San Antonio’s River Walk, Omni La Mansion has the romantic charm of a grand hacienda with its Spanish colonial architecture and European flair. The most historic building at the hotel dates to 1852. The courtyard transports you into an intimate garden away from the bustle of the city. Escape from the world for a relaxing retreat.
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Photo By: The Broadmoor, Historic Hotels of America
The Broadmoor
There is nothing quite as refreshing as mountain air. The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has been offering guests a luxurious way to experience the picturesque beauty of the American West since 1918. The Italian Renaissance-style resort features curved marble staircases, crystal chandeliers, and plush carpets. Sitting on a stunning 5,000 acres, the resort has everything one could want on a vacation from two legendary golf courses, several dining options, shopping, a world-class spa, tennis and pickleball courts, pools and hot tubs, a bowling alley, and a small movie theater. For adrenaline lovers, don’t miss the high-flying Broadmoor Soaring Adventure, which consists of ten zip lines that offer unparalleled views of waterfalls and South Cheyenne Canyon.
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Photo By: Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort, Historic Hotels of America
Hacienda Del Sol Guest Ranch Resort
If you're looking for an authentic Southwestern experience in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, there's no place like the historic Hacienda Del Sol. The original buildings opened in 1929 as a private school for girls from some of the nation’s wealthiest families, and it transformed into a luxury resort in 1948. With breathtaking mountain views and cactus garden, the resort offers the perfect Sonoran opportunity for a romantic escape. Savor every moment as you indulge in award-winning dishes on the onsite restaurants. Renew yourself with several different offerings from the spa and unwind in one of the resort’s three pools.
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Photo By: Mayflower Park Hotel, Historic Hotels of America
Mayflower Park Hotel
This opulent hotel has been welcoming guests to experience the best of Seattle since 1927. In the heart of downtown, the hotel is only minutes from Pike Place market. Enjoy everything the city has to offer from cultural attractions like the Seattle Aquarium and Seattle Art Museum to fine dining and nightlife.
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Photo By: Rancho Bernardo Inn, Historic Hotels of America
Rancho Bernardo Inn
Tucked away in the San Pasqual Mountains of San Diego’s North County, this historic resort is a verdant oasis that has been transporting guests to serenity since 1963. The lush gardens contain 19 handmade fountains imported from Italy. Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment in one of the outdoor casitas or a quiet escape in the adults-only pool. For the golf enthusiasts, tee off at the 18-hole championship golf course. The hotel also offers a solo traveler package for those focusing on self-love.
Members save up to 30% off best available rates at participating Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. Book your rooms by entering Rate Code: NHP. Subject to availability.
Haley Somolinos is the manager of email marketing at the National Trust. She has a passion for places and the stories that they hold.