10 historic hotels worth planning a National Park trip around
From cozy cabins to ranches from the 1800s, these longstanding accommodations are equally as spectacular as the national parks you’ll be visiting.
1. Crater Lake Lodge, Crater Lake, Oregon
This lodge inside Crater Lake National Park, first opened in 1915, sits on the edge of the caldera almost 1,000 feet above the famous lake. With wooden beams crisscrossing the lobby and a massive stone fireplace, it’s cozy to the nth degree. It’s open from mid-May through early October. There are 71 rooms, some with lake views and others with village views. After a day of hiking, sit down for a hearty meal in the lodge’s dining room.
2. Historic Hotel Packwood, Packwood, Washington
Just off the White Pass Scenic Byway 11 miles from Mount Rainier National Park, this hotel opened in 1912 and was lovingly restored in 2021. Think luxe bedding, Comphy-branded embroidered robes and full-length, hefty curtains that encourage you to sleep in. Drink your coffee on the wraparound veranda each morning (while keeping an eye out for the local elk herd) before heading out for adventures at the three nearby volcanoes.
3. Lodge at the Presidio, San Francisco
When you’re ready for a big dose of nature and dreamy views of the Golden Gate Bridge, this lodge, built in former military barracks that date back to the 1800s, really delivers. After a day of exploring the 1,400-acre Presidio National Park and 24 miles of hiking trails, enjoy the evening wine and cheese reception and wake up to a European-style breakfast the next morning. Save time to walk over to Colibri for amazing Mexican dishes and Dalida for its innovative Middle Eastern pastas, impressive wine program and Turkish-style ice creams.
4. Arlington Resort Hotel & Spa, Hot Springs, Arkansas
This legendary resort less than 2 miles from Hot Springs National Park, which celebrated its 100th anniversary in December, has welcomed notables such as Barbra Streisand, Al Capone and four U.S. presidents. Vintage vibes abound, including jazz nights and the original manually operated elevator in the bathhouse, complete with beveled glass and brass. Nearby, the Superior Bathhouse Brewery is the only craft brewery located within a U.S. national park.
5. Halekulani Hotel, Oahu, Hawaii
Ocean lovers have frequented this beachfront hotel since 1907 when it was one home and five bungalows. Fast forward to today and it welcomes lots more with 453 rooms and suites over 5 acres located 24 miles from Honouliuli National Historic Site. New premier suites have dreamy views of Waikiki Beach and are super spacious and elegant. From wellness treatments at the recently renovated spa to surf lessons to oceanside stretch classes, you’ll be in pure vacation mode. Be sure to schedule a dinner at House Without a Key for Hawaiian music and a stunning sunset overlooking the ocean and Orchids for daily breakfast or the popular Sunday buffet brunch. Guests score free access to local favorites like the Iolani Palace and the Bishop Museum.
6. Highlands Ranch Resort, Mill Creek, California
From the charming barn (circa the late 1800s) to the upscale rustic lodge, this ranch 4 miles from Lassen Volcanic National Park has personality. And its surroundings — a 175-acre alpine meadow and snow-capped peaks in the distance — don’t hurt either. Book one of seven cottages with a gas fireplace, comfy bed, heated bathroom floors and luxe bath amenities. Be sure to have meals at the on-site restaurant for farm-fresh, local dishes.
7. The Crawford Hotel, Denver
You know you are somewhere special as soon as you step foot into the Crawford Parlour to check in. From the worldly knick knacks to the plush furniture, it’s all picture perfect. This historic train station, dating back to 1881, still has original 65-foot ceilings, oversized windows and stately chandeliers. Rooms have exposed wood timbers, dramatic floral wallpaper and deco-inspired furniture. Bonus: free transportation within a few miles of the hotel. Located 66 miles from Rocky Mountain National Park.
8. Historic Wailuku Inn, Maui, Hawaii
The Historic Wailuku Inn is a 100-year-old hotel with 10 guest suites, each decorated differently. You’ll fully appreciate that it’s off the beaten path but still only 15 minutes from the airport, 30 miles from Haleakala National Park and a short walk to downtown Wailuku, where it’s fun to hunt for murals and stand in line for piping hot malasadas (Portuguese donuts) at Four Sisters Bakery. Eat breakfast at the inn each morning, soak in the rushing waters at nearby ʻĪao Valley State Park and hike the Waihe’e Ridge Trail. Plus, Wailuku First Friday is awesome for live music and food trucks.
9. Omni Mount Washington Resort & Spa, Bretton Woods, New Hampshire
You’ll know you’ve arrived at this resort in the White Mountain National Forest when you spot the distinctive red roofs and the snow-covered peaks of the namesake mountains. The interior, from the Tiffany-style glass to the crystal chandeliers, is equally impressive. With indoor and outdoor heated pools, hot tub, a spa, on-site dining and a former speakeasy lounge, you could easily stay put for a week. When you’re ready to venture out, go fly fishing, play tennis on red-clay courts and hit mountain-biking trails in the summer. In winter, enjoy snow skiing and snowshoeing.
10. The Lodge at Cloudcroft, Cloudcroft, New Mexico
People have flocked to this legendary retreat since the late 1800s, including Judy Garland, Clark Gable and Pancho Villa. From its copper-topped tower to its inviting porch and old-time Victorian décor, there’s so much to love about this getaway 35 miles from White Sands National Park. Fun fact: The hotel is 9,000 feet above sea level.