Whether you’re traveling to a national park or exploring great America, why not stay somewhere that embraces that landmark’s key history? Here are some must-see American lodges whose history is rich and worthwhile.
Grand Canyon Lodging – El Tovar Hotel, Arizona
This hotel is a must-stay if you’re looking into Grand Canyon lodging for your trip to the Copper State. Since 1905, the El Tovar Hotel has been a landmark in the Canyon and is a fine example of the National Park Service rustic style. With 78 unique rooms to choose from, the arts and craft-influenced architecture is mainly made of wood and stone. In addition, there is a delicious farm-to-table restaurant that overlooks the Canyon’s South Rim for guests to dine at. Choose to book a train trip to the canyon today. Highlights –
- Historic charm, with clean and comfortable rooms
- Fine-dining restaurant on-site
Yellowstone National Park Lodging – Oldfaithful Inn, Wyoming
If you’re browsing Yellowstone lodging for your trip to the lovely national park, consider staying at the Oldfaithful Inn in Wyoming. Since 1904, the Oldfaithful Inn has been a Yellowstone landmark that is considered the largest log structure in the world. The hotel is open from early-May to mid-October and it features a restaurant, lounge, daily tours and more for visitors. Highlights –
- Impressive architecture that reflects the hotel’s history
- Walking distance to dining choices, like Old Faithful Snow Lodge and the Bear Paw Deli
Glacier National Park Lodging – Many Glacier Hotel, Montana
The Many Glacier Hotel is situated inside Glacier National Park in Montana’s Rocky Mountains.
Sometimes called the “Switzerland of North America,” the park is a beautifully renovated retreat
into the majestic wilderness that runs along the Canadian border. You’ll find that this hotel is the
largest when searching for glacier national park lodging for your trip to this beautiful destination.
For the summer of 2020, the hotel opens for guests early June and it closes mid-September.
Highlights –
- Numerous activities available such as boat cruises, horseback rides, and evening ranger programs
- Rustic but comfortable lodging, with 205 guest rooms ranging from lakeside to standard lodging options to choose from
- The Ptarmigan Dining Room at the hotel is famous for their continental cuisine
Yosemite National Park Lodging – Majestic Yosemite Hotel, California
The Ahwahnee Hotel opened in 1927 but was later renamed the Majestic Yosemite Hotel in 2016. This elegant and hospitable hotel has hosted many famous faces, such as President Kennedy and Judy Garland. It’s like there’s an innate high-end feel when you stay here. The lodging allows visitors to golf, ski and swim in the area around the gorgeous Yosemite National Park. Highlights –
- In close proximity to Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and Glacier Point
- Dining room named best fine dining in all of Yosemite National Park
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
Cumberland Island Lodging – Greyfield Inn, Georgia
Greyfield was an estate that was built in the early 1900s by the Carnegie family, who spent many summers on Georgia’s Cumberland Island in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Decorated by family heirlooms, the estate was opened to the public in 1962 and it is still operated by Carnegie descendants today. The Greyfield Inn offers plenty of activities, such as fishing, bird watching, hiking, and kayaking tours for guests. There is also a secluded beach that is part of the Cumberland Island National Seashore. Highlights –
- All-inclusive inn, with meals, activities, recreation, and ferry transportation included in rates
- On-site garden contributes to exceptional seasonal menus
Smoky Mountains Lodging – LeConte Lodge, North Carolina/Tennessee
Near Mount LeConte, LeConte Lodge is located near the top of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, at 6,360 feet of elevation. LeConte Lodge has a cozy and rustic feel, and it is a great lodging option for those visiting the beauty of the North Carolina/Tennessee border. Booking information varies per year, but the hotel typically takes reservations in early October for the following operating season, which includes the end of March to the end of November. Starting October 1, 2019, the booking season starts for the operating season of 2020. Highlights –
- Renowned as the highest guest lodge in the Eastern United States with spectacular views of the Smokies
- Rates typically include lodging and meals
Hawaii Volcanoes Lodging – Volcano House, Hawaii
Volcano House is a great lodging option if you are visiting Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park. Being the only volcano hotel in Hawai’i, Volcano House has a rustic feel and a lovely collection of native arts, jewelry, and local crafts to accent the rooms. The hotel includes a full-service restaurant and a lounge with artisanal cocktails and lovely views. In addition, the Volcano House is in the center of fun activities like snorkeling the Kona Coast or catching beautiful views of Kalapana. The hotel also overlooks Halema’uma’u Crater at the top of Kilauea, and the Hawaiian rainforest. Highlights –
- Close to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park
- Discounted rates for Hawaiian residents with valid state ID, military members, and seniors age 50 or older
Cavallo Point Lodging, San Francisco
Also known as “the lodge at the Golden Gate,” Cavallo Point is located at the heart of the Golden Gate Recreation Area in the celebrated city of San Francisco. The hotel offers both historic and contemporary lodging for guests. Within the historic lodging, you can find rooms that blend colonial styles alongside luxurious amenities. Whereas in contemporary lodging you can expect a more environmental style with scenic views of the Bay Area. When it comes to dining, Cavallo Point has two restaurants – an exquisite dining experience at Murray Circle or a cozy wind down at the more casual Farley Bar. Highlights –
- Healing center and spa located at the hotel to rejuvenate the mind and body
- Quaint shop called the Mercantile that sells tasteful trinkets and products
- Art gallery and spa shop at the hotel