16 Best Historic Hotels in the West That Look Exactly Like They Did 100 Years Ago

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Step inside these hotels and you’ll feel like time has frozen. Chandeliers still glow as they did a century ago, creaky staircases whisper with the footsteps of long-gone travelers, and grand lobbies still carry the elegance of another era. In the American West, history doesn’t just live in museums—it lingers in these hotels, where every corner holds a story. From gold rush boomtowns to railroad stopovers, these buildings have hosted dreamers, drifters, and dignitaries alike.

What makes them remarkable isn’t just their age, but their authenticity. They haven’t been scrubbed of character or glossed into something unrecognizable. Instead, they remain strikingly true to their roots, as if you could open your window and hear horse-drawn carriages outside. Staying in one isn’t just about comfort—it’s about stepping into the past and realizing some places were built to last forever.

The Ahwahnee Hotel

Yosemite’s jewel, The Ahwahnee Hotel, captivates with its rustic elegance and Native American motifs. Nestled amidst towering granite cliffs, this grand hotel has been welcoming guests since 1927.

Stepping inside, one is greeted by the same timeless elegance that has hosted presidents and royalty. The grand dining room, with its towering ceilings and vast windows, remains a highlight.

Its architectural design blends harmoniously with the surrounding natural beauty, offering a unique experience. It’s not merely a place to stay but a doorway to Yosemite’s majestic past.

Hotel del Coronado

With its iconic red turrets, Hotel del Coronado stands as a beacon of Victorian elegance on Coronado Island. Since 1888, it has charmed visitors with its stunning beachfront location and timeless allure.

The hotel, a National Historic Landmark, exudes an enchanting blend of opulence and nostalgia. Its expansive sandy beaches have witnessed countless romantic strolls.

Guests can enjoy the same grandeur that once attracted luminaries like Marilyn Monroe. The Del is not just a hotel; it’s a timeless icon of Californian hospitality.

Old Faithful Inn

In the heart of Yellowstone, Old Faithful Inn stands as a rustic marvel of architecture. Built in 1904, its log design and towering stone fireplace welcome visitors seeking adventure and tranquility.

The inn has retained its original charm, offering guests the chance to witness the geyser eruptions from the comfort of their rooms.

Its rustic ambiance and unique craftsmanship create an immersive experience, drawing nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Old Faithful Inn is more than a lodge; it’s a piece of Yellowstone’s soul.

The Stanley Hotel

The Stanley Hotel, nestled in Estes Park, Colorado, is famously eerie and grand. Opened in 1909, it boasts classic architecture and a sprawling lawn, offering stunning mountain views.

The hotel’s ghostly tales and historic grandeur have inspired many a storyteller, including Stephen King.

Guests can explore its haunted history while basking in luxurious comfort. The Stanley Hotel isn’t just a stay; it’s an invitation to step into a narrative of mystery and elegance.

The Arizona Biltmore

The Arizona Biltmore, a Phoenix treasure, showcases exquisite art deco architecture. Opened in 1929, it was designed by a protégé of Frank Lloyd Wright, offering opulence amid desert beauty.

Its lush gardens and stunning mountain backdrop create a serene oasis. Guests have included Hollywood legends and heads of state, drawn by its luxurious charm.

The Biltmore preserves its historic allure while providing modern comfort, making it a jewel in Arizona’s crown. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an artistic masterpiece.

The Strater Hotel

In the heart of Durango, The Strater Hotel exudes Victorian charm and lively spirit. Established in 1887, it offers an authentic journey into the past.

Guests are greeted by its quaint saloon and intricate woodwork, reminiscent of a bygone era. The Strater’s rich history is echoed in every corner, from the period furnishings to the tales of the Old West.

Surrounded by the scenic San Juan Mountains, it’s a portal to Colorado’s rugged beauty. The Strater is more than a hotel; it’s a living museum.

Timberline Lodge

Perched on Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge is a testament to mountain craftsmanship. Constructed in 1937, it’s famed for its rugged architecture and breathtaking views of snowy peaks.

The lodge offers an authentic alpine experience, with ski trails right at its doorstep. Its hand-crafted details and warm interiors invite travelers seeking adventure.

Timberline Lodge is not just a resting place; it’s an iconic symbol of Oregon’s wilderness and history.

The Davenport Hotel

In Spokane, The Davenport Hotel stands as a beacon of elegance since 1914. Its Renaissance-style architecture and ornate interiors exude sophistication and grandeur.

Guests are welcomed into a lobby adorned with marble and gold accents, offering a luxurious escape. The hotel’s timeless charm has hosted dignitaries and celebrities alike.

The Davenport isn’t merely a hotel; it’s a historic landmark that embodies the spirit of Spokane’s golden era.

The Brown Palace Hotel

Denver’s Brown Palace Hotel, opened in 1892, is renowned for its triangular design and elegant interiors. The grand atrium lobby, with its stained glass and ornate railings, offers a breathtaking welcome.

Throughout its history, the hotel has been a symbol of luxury and style, hosting presidents and stars. Its dedication to preserving history while offering modern amenities makes it a unique stay.

The Brown Palace is not just accommodation; it’s an experience in Denver’s historic heart.

The Westin St. Francis

The Westin St. Francis, overlooking Union Square, has been a San Francisco icon since 1904. Its Beaux-Arts architecture and opulent interiors offer a glimpse into the city’s glamorous past.

Guests enjoy impeccable service while surrounded by timeless elegance. The hotel’s strategic location provides easy access to the city’s vibrant culture and attractions.

Staying at The Westin St. Francis is not merely about luxury; it’s about embracing San Francisco’s storied legacy.

La Posada Hotel

La Posada Hotel, in Winslow, Arizona, is a masterpiece of Spanish Revival architecture. Opened in 1930, it was once considered the finest hotel in the Southwest.

Its lush gardens and proximity to the railroad tracks offered travelers a serene retreat. Guests can explore its rich history through art and architecture.

La Posada is more than a stopover; it’s a heritage site that captures the essence of the American Southwest.

The Wort Hotel

Jackson’s Wort Hotel captures the spirit of the Wild West with its rustic wood design and cowboy-inspired decor. Established in 1941, it offers a unique blend of history and hospitality.

Guests can immerse themselves in Western charm, from the cozy rooms to the lively Silver Dollar Bar.

The Wort Hotel isn’t just a place to rest; it’s an adventure into Wyoming’s vibrant past and rugged landscapes.

Hotel Boulderado

Since 1909, Hotel Boulderado has been a Boulder landmark, known for its grand Victorian-style lobby and intricate woodwork. Its name, a blend of Boulder and Colorado, reflects its deep roots in the region.

The hotel offers stunning mountain views and a glimpse into early 20th-century elegance.

Hotel Boulderado is more than a stay; it’s an exploration of Boulder’s past, welcoming guests with open arms and timeless charm.

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak

The Cliff House at Pikes Peak, nestled in Manitou Springs, offers Victorian opulence against the backdrop of majestic Pikes Peak. Since 1873, it has been a haven for travelers seeking luxury and natural beauty.

The hotel’s elegant rooms and historic charm have hosted famous guests throughout the decades.

The Cliff House isn’t just a destination; it’s a legacy of grandeur and scenic splendor in the Colorado Rockies.

The Copper Queen Hotel

In Bisbee, Arizona, The Copper Queen Hotel stands as a relic of a bygone era. Opened in 1902, its Victorian-style architecture and ghostly legends continue to allure visitors.

Nestled in the Mule Mountains, it offers a unique blend of history and mystery.

Guests can explore its haunted tales or simply enjoy the vintage charm. The Copper Queen isn’t just a stay; it’s an exploration into the past, where every corner tells a story.

The Oregon Caves Chateau

Hidden amidst the lush forests of Oregon, the Oregon Caves Chateau lures travelers with its rustic charm and intriguing history. Constructed in 1934, this six-story wooden lodge stands gracefully over a serene creek, bridging the gap between nature and architecture.

Inside, guests are greeted by vintage furnishings and an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of the early 20th century. The chateau’s cozy rooms and classic dining areas transport visitors to a bygone era.

Did you know? The chateau was built to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings, making it a true marvel of eco-conscious design.