Readers' Choice Awards Best Historic Hotels of 2026

America's historic hotels offer a tangible piece of the country's past, found in their floorboards, ceilings, and guest registers. To celebrate them, Reviewed's travel and hospitality experts selected 16 of the best historic hotels coast to coast—and then we asked you to vote. The ballots are counted, and these are the 10 properties readers picked as this year's Readers' Choice Award winners, ranked from first place on down.

Winner: The Betsy South Beach

Miami Beach, Florida

On Ocean Drive in Miami’s South Beach, The Betsy South Beach sits in a 1942 Florida Georgian–style building connected by the Poetry Rail to a restored Art Deco property. Our experts highlighted the Betsy’s unique presence, blend of preserved architecture, neighborhood feel, and ongoing investment in arts programming. The hotel’s nonprofit, the Betsy Foundation, organizes cultural events such as author readings, jazz performances, and art residencies. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool and two restaurants.

Readers returned again and again to a handful of details: a lobby library stocked with books by authors who've stayed (and a writer-in-residence on hand to meet them), the jazz that drifts around the lobby's Steinway, a pet-friendly welcome complete with resident canine ambassadors, and a longtime concierge, Art, whom voters credit as the keeper of the hotel's history.

Runner up: Arizona Biltmore

Phoenix, Arizona

Our reviewers singled out Arizona Biltmore's architecture, gold-leaf lobby ceiling, and Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced details (though Wright's exact contribution is debated) as reasons for its inclusion among the country’s most distinctive historic hotels. The Phoenix resort, opened in 1929 and designed by Albert Chase McArthur, features the well-known "textile block" construction.

William Wrigley Jr. became the sole owner in 1930, and a $140 million renovation in 2023 added new amenities while restoring historic spaces. Readers also point to the guided historic tours the property offers guests and to its original speakeasy as part of the draw.

#3: InterContinental New York Barclay

New York, New York

A short walk from Grand Central Terminal and Park Avenue, the InterContinental New York Barclay opened in 1926 as part of the original Grand Central development plan, with interiors designed in a residential Federal style meant to feel like an Upper East Side townhouse. Our panel of reviewers recognized the Barclay's guest rooms and suites, along with its midtown location, as reasons for nominating it, citing the convenience for travelers connecting through Grand Central or working in the surrounding business district. A $180 million renovation completed 10 years ago modernized the rooms and public spaces while keeping the lobby's chandelier, fireplace, and birdcage—the property's longtime signature features.

Readers note the hotel is now building toward its centennial with the “Journey to 100” campaign, leading up to the Barclay's 100th anniversary in November 2026, and they single out the Parlour as a favorite spot for a nightcap.

#4: La Posada de Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico

La Posada de Santa Fe sits on six acres of gardens just steps from Santa Fe's downtown plaza. The property's centerpiece is the original 1882 Staab House, the Victorian mansion of German immigrant merchant Abraham Staab and his wife Julia, surrounded by adobe-style guest buildings added over the decades. The resort houses one of the city's larger hotel art collections, with works displayed throughout the grounds and in public spaces, and operates a full-service spa. It runs as part of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio. Readers single out the attentive staff—and the people behind its history—among the reasons to stay.

#5: The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa

Denver, Colorado

The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa opened in 1892 as Denver’s first luxury hotel and has continually occupied its distinctive triangular Italian Renaissance building downtown. Our panel pointed to its legacy as a downtown Denver landmark and the architectural drama of its eight-story atrium lobby—ringed with cast-iron balconies and topped with stained glass. The hotel is renowned locally for its long-running afternoon tea. Nearly every U.S. president since Theodore Roosevelt has stayed at this Marriott Autograph Collection mainstay and Historic Hotel of America. For readers, the staff, the dining, and the building's history are the heart of its Denver charm.

#6: The Pfister Hotel

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The Pfister Hotel opened in downtown Milwaukee in 1893 and remains best known for its Victorian art collection displayed throughout the public spaces; in fact, it's one of the largest hotel-held collections of 19th-century paintings in the country. Our panel notes that walking into the grand lobby immediately signals the kind of luxury and history this category was built to celebrate. The lobby, the Mason Street entrance, and the Cafe at the Pfister carry the period detail through to today, and an artist-in-residence program keeps a working studio on the property.

#7: The American Club

Kohler, Wisconsin

The American Club opened in 1918 as housing for Kohler Company’s immigrant factory workers, offering private rooms, three meals daily, and citizenship classes, all for $27.50 per month. Our panel highlights its unique journey from worker dormitory to destination resort, along with the appeal of its grounds, as reasons it's made our list. The Tudor-style red-brick building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978 and became a resort in 1981. It now boasts 241 rooms, four championship golf courses, Kohler Waters Spa, and several restaurants, including the four-star Immigrant.

Readers love the courtyard with its mature trees and dreamy cafe, and the way history seeps into every corner of the original building—one restaurant once served as a bowling alley for the workers housed here, another as the infirmary.

#8: Ashland Springs Hotel

Ashland, Oregon

Opened in 1925 as the Lithia Springs Hotel originally, the Ashland Springs Hotel remains the only high-rise in this West Coast city—if you can call nine stories high. Our panel notes that the property's scale and downtown location put nearly everything within walking distance, including Lithia Park, the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's theaters, and the cafes and shops along Main Street. The hotel is a member of Historic Hotels of America and retains period detailing in its lobby and conservatory.

#9: Hotel Valley Ho

Scottsdale, Arizona

Hotel Valley Ho opened in Scottsdale in 1956 as a mid-century modern resort designed by Edward L. Varney, with breeze-block screens and a saltwater pool that drew Hollywood guests during its first run. The property closed in 2001 and reopened in 2005 after a restoration that returned the original architecture and added a tower of suites. Our reviewers highlight the hotel's uncommon, atomic-age design that leaves a lasting impression, even after a short stay. It offers two restaurants, a spa, and rooms with private patios or balconies, and it is also a member of Historic Hotels of America.

#10: Hotel del Coronado

Coronado, California

Built in 1888, the Hotel del Coronado occupies a spot on the Coronado peninsula, across the bay from San Diego. At its opening, it held the title of world’s largest resort hotel and stands today as one of the country’s largest all-wood structures. With Queen Anne–style red turrets, the Babcock & Story Bar, and 28 beachfront acres, the hotel has earned a National Historic Landmark status and a starring role in American film, most famously in Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot (1958). Our experts pointed to the Del’s Marilyn Monroe association, striking architecture, and island setting as reasons for its place on this list. A multi-year master plan is now restoring the Victorian building to its original character.

Our Experts

Tracy Ellen Beard

Tracy Ellen Beard is a freelance writer, editor, and photographer based in Toledo, Washington. She specializes in luxury and adventure travel, wellness, fine dining, wine, and outdoor experiences, capturing the spirit of a place through immersive storytelling. With more than two decades of experience and culinary training in San Francisco, she brings depth and authenticity to her work. Her global travels inform a thoughtful, human-centered perspective. When not writing, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, and exploring cultures in search of the next compelling story. Follow her at Tracy Beard Writes.

Marguerite "Peggy" Cleveland

Peggy Cleveland is a travel and food writer passionate about discovering unique eats and memorable destinations. She is the author of 100 Things To Do In Tacoma Before You Die and the upcoming Unique Eats and Eateries of Tacoma. She writes for SheBuysTravel, and her work is syndicated with McClatchy, MSN, and NewsBreak. She specializes in storytelling that highlights local culture, culinary experiences, and inspiring places to explore. Find her on Instagram.

Kurt Jacobson

Kurt Jacobson is a freelance travel writer who covers food, luxury hotels, travel, and wine. His stories appear in over 50 websites and magazines across the United States. Kurt currently resides in Colorado with his wife and two Maine Coon cats. You can follow his adventures on Instagram at @KurtTravels2.

Susan Lanier-Graham

Susan Lanier-Graham is an award-winning food, wine, and travel writer with more than three decades of experience exploring destinations around the world. She has visited luxury resorts, boutique properties, and hidden gems across six continents, bringing a discerning eye to every stay. As publisher of Wander With Wonder, she leads an award-winning digital publication that inspires readers to discover exceptional travel experiences. Her work blends firsthand insight with a passion for storytelling, offering trusted recommendations on where to stay, dine, and explore. Susan’s expertise helps travelers confidently choose destinations that transform trips into unforgettable, experience-rich journeys.

Joelle Machia

Joelle Machia is a travel writer, podcaster, photographer, and co-founder of Wanderers Compass, a multi-platform travel brand dedicated to immersive, culturally respectful storytelling. As a United Nations ECOSOC Representative and award-winning content creator, she focuses on sharing deeper travel experiences that go beyond the surface. Through Wanderers Compass, Joelle produces destination guides, long-form articles, a digital magazine, and a podcast that explores history, culture, food, and local communities.

Susan R. Pollack

As an award-winning travel writer, Susan R. Pollack's stories and photos have appeared in scores of newspapers, magazines, and websites over her five-plus-decade career. From her home base in Metro Detroit, she has traveled to all 50 states, six continents, most of the world's top cities, and several islands and outposts along the way. An avid golfer, foodie, and Mahjong buff, she is a longtime member of the Society of American Travel Writers, Midwest Travel Journalists Association, and Golf Travel Writers of America. Follow her on Facebook.

Dena Roché

A travel and wine journalist and member of the prestigious Circle of Wine Writers, Dena Roché's publishing credits include Food & Wine, Full Pour, the BBC, and more. When she’s not exploring exciting destinations and wine regions, you can find her hosting private and corporate wine experiences in Scottsdale through her company Vin Roché.

Penny Sadler

Penny Sadler is a freelance writer residing in the Lone Star State. Her glass is always full, preferably of something white and bubbly. She writes for Timeout, Texas Lifestyle Magazine, Matador Network, Inside Hook, Cheese Professor, and other outlets. Read more from Penny on her website, Adventures of a Carryon.

Cori Solomon

Cori Solomon, an award-winning freelance writer and photographer based in Los Angeles, focuses on travel, art, food, wine, and pets. She often highlights the story behind the restaurant, chef, winery, winemaker, or artist. Her background in real estate and art both play a role in her writing, whether it is the architectural splendor of a building, a historical-artistic rendering, or the artistry of a winemaker or chef. Since Cori often travels with her dog, Salukis, she has a keen eye for pet-friendly stories. Follow her adventures on The Written Palette.

Phil Thomas

A travel journalist, based in Cambridge, UK, Phil Thomas has visited more than 100 countries and writes for UK and international publications, including BBC Travel, Conde Nast, and The Independent. He's a regular visitor stateside and loves to learn about the cultures, cuisines, and heritages that make America all it is. Read more from Phil at Someone Else's Country.