The 2025 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America^® Most Historic Bars, Taverns, and Speakeasies List Is Announced

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Historic Hotels of America^®, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels from across the United States of America, is pleased to announce The 2025 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Most Historic Bars, Taverns, and Speakeasies list. This collection of 25 bucket list bars located in historic hotels across the United States highlights the ways in which history can be experienced through expertly crafted drinks, live entertainment, and good company.

For the first time, @HistoricHotels announces its selection of the most historic hotel bars in the US! More: https://www.historichotels.org/us/press/press-releases/the-2025-top-25-historic-hotels-of-america-most-historic-bars-list-is-announced

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Many of the venues selected for this list are hidden gems, although several well-known establishments like the Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone (1886) and the Tonga Room at Fairmont San Francisco (1907) can also be found on this list. Whether well-known or well-kept secrets, these historic bars, taverns, and speakeasies preserve their original architectural styles, interior design, and historic ambiance, making for a more complete historic experience for guests. While perusing this list, Historic Hotels of America recommends keeping the effects of Prohibition in mind: during this era, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution prohibited the sale, transportation, and manufacture of alcoholic beverages. Bars in the United States were forced to close after the 18th Amendment passed, making a historic bar that opened before 1920 an uncommon find, even among historic hotels. While some of the historic taverns on this list survived Prohibition (1920-1933) through food service and non-alcoholic drinks, most of the bars on this list opened after Prohibition, although these bars are located in very historic spaces. There are exceptions, one of which is The Cave speakeasy at Omni Mount Washington (1902), which clearly opened at an opportune moment. Hotels often have the infrastructure in place to quickly pivot when hospitality laws change, so one hotel on this list was the first to get a liquor license in its respective city. Another was the first “daylight” bar in its state. Cultural and heritage travelers can experience all of these historic bars, taverns, and speakeasies today.

For more information, please visit HistoricHotels.org and sign up for the Discover & Explore newsletter to stay up to date on new member hotels, special offers, and exclusive sneak peaks at future Top 25 Historic Hotels of America lists.

Nassau Inn (1756) Princeton, New Jersey

Yankee Doodle Tap Room

Tucked within the walls of the historic Nassau Inn in Princeton, New Jersey, the Yankee Doodle Tap Room is more than just a bar; it is a living piece of American history. With a history of hospitality going back to 1756, the inn has served as a beloved gathering place for Princeton University students, longtime residents, dignitaries, and visitors for generations. In the tavern, rough-hewn wood beams and solid oak furniture set the scene, with many tables still bearing the carved initials of past patrons—among them, none other than Albert Einstein. The tavern's centerpiece and namesake is situated above the grand oak bar, a striking 13-foot mural by Norman Rockwell, painted in 1937. The piece, titled Yankee Doodle, whimsically portrays the American legend in Rockwell’s signature style, and remains a source of fascination and pride. Rockwell also hand-painted the original Yankee Doodle Tap Room sign, which greets guests to this day. A walk through the dining room reveals framed senior portraits of notable Princeton alumni, paying tribute to the inn's deep-rooted connection to the university. The Nassau Inn even played a part in Princeton’s sartorial traditions—the iconic beer jackets worn by students are said to have originated here after Prohibition, offering a washable solution to evenings spent enjoying the tap room’s lively atmosphere. With its distinctive American gastropub menu, regular live entertainment, and welcoming ambiance, the Yankee Doodle Tap Room remains a cherished piece of both Princeton's cultural fabric and American history. Nassau Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2024.

Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn (1766) Rhinebeck, New York

Tavern at the Beekman Arms | Signature Drink: Taconic Rye Old Fashioned

Since 1704, travelers and locals alike in Rhinebeck, New York, have gathered at the site of the historic Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn. The current iteration of the Beekman Arms was added to the original tavern in 1766, and this historic building has been welcoming guests ever since—many of whom changed the course of American history. During the Revolutionary War, the Fourth Regiment of the Continental Army performed drills on the front lawn in preparation for the war, and locals took refuge here when the British burned down the state capital, Kingston, across the river. Reportedly, George Washington, Philip Schuyler, Benedict Arnold, and Alexander Hamilton all slept, ate, drank, argued, and laughed here. In 1804, New York’s gubernatorial candidates both had their headquarters in local Rhinebeck taverns: Morgan Lewis was based at the Beekman Arms, while Vice President Aaron Burr was based down the street at Kips Tavern. Throughout the 19th century, Beekman Arms served as the center for civic and social life in Rhinebeck, where tea parties, public auctions, and even religious services by traveling preachers were held. In 1888, Benjamin Harrison and his running mate, Levi P. Morton, assembled at the inn with their supporters, where they learned that the convention had picked them to run for the presidency. Today, visitors will find that few changes have been made to the Beekman Arms’s original structure, with its strong oak beams and broad-plank wood floors. The bar area, referred to as the Tavern, is the oldest part of the inn. Inside, the original fireplace warms patrons during cooler months, and visitors can see a stained-glass depiction of the tavern as it looked in 1704, which is hung behind the bar. The Tavern serves a full kitchen menu and offers table service, as well as seating at the bar. The Tavern takes pride in carrying local spirits and draft beers. The signature drink at Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn is the Taconic Rye Old Fashioned, made with a local rye whiskey from Taconic Distillery. The Tavern at the Beekman Arms offers casual dining, walk-ups at the bar, and may also be reserved for special occasions. Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2006.

The Red Lion Inn (1773) Stockbridge, Massachusetts

The Lion’s Den | Signature Drink: Bloody Mary/Red Lion Ale

Established in 1773 by Silas Pepoon as a quaint tavern in Stockbridge, Massachusetts, The Red Lion Inn is more than a genteel place where travelers to the Berkshires can enjoy a Bloody Mary. Its history dates to a tumultuous time in New England history, when the tavern was a gathering place for local citizens rallying against British rule and soldiers in with the Continental Army. The staff at the inn theorize that the original signage reflects Pepoon’s devotion to American independence: the green tail is said to represent the Colonies breaking away from Great Britain, as embodied by the red lion on the sign. In April 1937, The Red Lion Inn’s bar took on a new life when Innkeeper Heaton Treadway unveiled The Lion’s Den—a surprise for his father, a U.S. Representative who voted to end Prohibition—upon obtaining the inn’s first liquor license after more than 90 years of being dry. Since then, The Lion’s Den has thrived as a spirited hideaway, becoming a hub for live entertainment. From jazz nights to surprise acoustic sets, “The Den” has hosted a wide range of artists, including James Taylor, Arlo Guthrie, Mark Bryan of Hootie & the Blowfish, jazz legend Howard Paul, avant-garde icon Machine Dazzle, Emmett Skky, and members of both Jackson Browne’s and Lyle Lovett’s bands. The Red Lion Inn’s Bloody Mary is a guest favorite, but the signature Red Lion Ale should not be missed. This malty, farmhouse-style brew is crafted exclusively for the inn by Big Elm Brewing in nearby Sheffield, Massachusetts. Steeped in history and alive with music, The Lion’s Den at The Red Lion Inn continues to be a place where stories unfold—one sip, one song, and one night at a time. The Red Lion Inn was inducted as a Charter Member of Historic Hotels of America in 1989.

The Willard InterContinental, Washington, D.C. (1818) Washington, District of Columbia

Round Robin Bar | Signature Drink: The Mint Julep

Regarded as the “Oval Office of Bars,” the stately Round Robin Bar at The Willard InterContinental, Washington, D.C. has stood as a gathering place for the District’s social and political elite since before the Civil War. Its history and proximity to the White House make it truly one-of-a-kind. Established in 1847, and one of the oldest bars in the city, the Round Robin Bar has long served as a meeting ground for presidents, diplomats, and members of Congress. The bar has also long been a favorite haunt for the city’s journalistic elite. The Gridiron Club, which used to host its annual dinners at the hotel, would pack the bar before and after the signature annual event. The National Press Club was established at the hotel in 1908, and its members have been devotees of the bar ever since. In fact, when the hotel reopened in 1986 after being closed for 18 years, the Board of Governors of the National Press Club was there to reopen the Round Robin Bar and continue its historic legacy. The bar’s signature cocktail is the Mint Julep, made with bourbon, famously introduced to the city by Kentucky politician Henry Clay at the hotel. Crafted today with Woodinville “Willard InterContinental” bourbon, fresh mint, and turbinado sugar, the Mint Julep is more than a refreshing sip; it is a tribute to diplomacy, heritage, and timeless Southern hospitality. The Round Robin Bar serves over 20,000 Mint Juleps every year. Today, visitors can explore the bar’s rich legacy through historic photographs lining the oak-paneled walls, while enjoying a specially curated menu with a variety of timeless classics, seasonal creations, and rare pours. With elevated bites and a robust zero-proof cocktail menu, every detail at the Round Robin Bar is steeped in storytelling and craftsmanship, making it an essential destination for travelers seeking a taste of American history. The Willard InterContinental, Washington, D.C. was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2010 and dates to 1818.

Omni Parker House (1855) Boston, Massachusetts

The Last Hurrah | Signature Drink: Boston Cream Pie Martini

The Last Hurrah is a historic Boston bar inspired by a book modeled after an infamous local politician, where storied history meets expertly crafted spirits. Since 1971, The Last Hurrah has been a beloved fixture of the historic Omni Parker House, established in 1855 and centrally located in downtown Boston. The bar’s name comes from Edwin O’Connor’s novel, The Last Hurrah (1956), a thinly disguised chronicling of the escapades of Boston Mayor James Michael Curley. Curley was a charismatic Irish-American politician, called the "Mayor of the Poor," who dominated Boston politics for the first half of the 20th century. He hosted daily luncheons in the Parker House's main dining room, delighting curious onlookers, and impressing the waitstaff by tipping silver dollars. Throughout the bar, visitors can scan the displays of vintage photos and see the many notable figures who have stayed, dined, or visited the Parker House throughout its history, including Amelia Earhart, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Babe Ruth, to name a few. A full wall on the second floor is dedicated to photos of John F. Kennedy and Mayor Curley. Another historic touch at The Last Hurrah is the Ponzi Corner, a cheeky and thoughtfully curated nod to one of Boston’s most infamous characters, Charles Ponzi, whose fraudulent investment operations inspired the phrase “Ponzi scheme.” Ponzi’s offices were across the street, and he frequented the hotel's restaurants. History can also be sampled at the bar, where the signature cocktail is a spirited tribute to one of the hotel’s most iconic creations: the Boston Cream Pie, invented at the hotel in 1856. Inspired by this culinary classic, mixologists at The Last Hurrah reimagined it as a decadent cocktail. This indulgent drink delivers a taste of historic Boston in an elevated setting, blending 1 oz vanilla vodka, 1 oz Baileys Irish Cream, and 1 oz chocolate liqueur. Appointed in soft leather upholstery and rich mahogany, The Last Hurrah is a Boston tradition and more than just a bar—it is a window into Boston’s rich literary, political, and culinary history. Omni Parker House was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2006.

The Menger Hotel (1859) San Antonio, Texas

The Menger Bar | Signature Drink: Old Fashioned

Nestled in the heart of San Antonio, Texas, just steps away from the legendary Alamo, The Menger Hotel stands as a living testament to Texas history and hospitality. The Menger Hotel was founded in 1859 by German immigrant William Menger, who had founded the first commercial brewery in Texas just a few years earlier. One of the most historic spaces in the hotel is the Menger Bar, a faithful reproduction of the House of Lords Pub in England. In 1898, Colonel Leonard Wood and his Lieutenant Colonel (and future President of the United States), Theodore Roosevelt, set up an enlistment table at The Menger Bar, where they recruited over 1,250 men to form the Rough Riders, the famous volunteer regiment in the Spanish-American War. Want to learn more? Ask the bartender. They can tell you the stories that made this bar famous—and even point out the bullet holes where Roosevelt fired his gun to get the crowd’s attention. The signature drink is the Old Fashioned, served in a heavy-bottomed tumbler and garnished with an orange zest twist. The Menger Hotel was inducted as a Charter Member of Historic Hotels of America in 1989.

Napa River Inn (1884) Napa, California

The Fink | Signature Drink: O.G. Mai Tai

Visitors to Napa, California, can find the region’s best cocktails within a historic setting at The Fink, a playful cocktail bar founded in 2023 at the historic Napa River Inn. The bar occupies one of Napa Valley's most historically significant commercial spaces: the foot of the grain silos within the warehouse and storage buildings of the Historic Napa Mill, which has anchored Main Street in Napa, California, since 1884. The bar's historic building dates to 1944, when the building served as the Napa Milling Company. The mill installed the iconic 84-ft-tall grain silos to allow feed materials stored in the silos to be mixed in bulk quantities. Today, these imposing silos can be seen across downtown Napa, and visitors to The Fink can appreciate these elements from the building’s industrial heritage as part of the bar's historic ambiance, as the venue maintains the character of this important piece of Napa's agricultural and industrial history. Guests literally drink where history happened, within the same brick walls that housed government-bonded wines over 130 years ago, where riverboat captains planned routes, and where Napa Valley's agricultural center was developed. In 2023, Napa Valley vintner Judd Finkelstein—owner of Judd's Hill Winery—transformed the space into The Fink. Finkelstein designed the bar as a tiki-inspired boathouse that pays homage to the late 1800s, when the Historic Napa Mill was Napa's commercial center, and river commerce dominated regional business. There is not just one signature drink, but the O.G. Mai Tai may be the perfect embodiment of the bar’s historical narrative. This house-made creation features authentic ingredients, including house-made orgeat syrup, and a carefully selected blend of two Jamaican rums, plus one from Martinique. The bar is known for its sophisticated ambiance—with a touch of kitsch and industrial flair—and offers a unique experience that combines the best of Napa's wine culture with innovative mixology. Napa River Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2004.

Palace Hotel (1875) San Francisco, California

Pied Piper | Signature Drink: Martini

Steeped in rich history, the Pied Piper bar at San Francisco’s iconic Palace Hotel stands as a true testament to timeless elegance. A landmark in San Francisco since its debut in 1875, Palace Hotel was the first luxury hotel in the city and, at the time, was the largest hotel in the world. After the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, a revitalized Palace Hotel opened its doors in 1909, including its new Pied Piper bar. Named after the famous Maxfield Parrish mural that graces its walls, the establishment has served as a gathering place for locals and travelers alike since its earliest days, welcoming generations of patrons, each experiencing its unique charm and allure. The dimly lit ambiance evokes the warm and intimate atmosphere of a private club, featuring a jewel-tone palette with rich wood paneling and an ornate mosaic tile floor. Guests can enjoy comfortable, relaxed dining while enjoying fresh California fare and an extensive selection of wine, beer, spirits, and classic cocktails with a modern San Francisco twist. Notably, the bar is known for its Martini specials. Pied Piper held “Martini Madness” happy hours in the 1970s and 1980s, and when Mad Men was airing on television in the early 2000s, the bar relaunched a Pied Piper classic cocktail collection that included the Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Vodka Gimlet, Whiskey Sour, and the classic Martini. The Pied Piper bar is interwoven with the fabric of San Francisco's vibrant past, having served as a backdrop for historic meetings, along with countless moments of camaraderie, celebration, and connection. With its ornate décor, warm ambiance, and a legacy of exceptional service, the Pied Piper bar continues to invite guests to create their own treasured memories within its walls. Palace Hotel, which celebrates 150 years of hospitality in 2025, was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2010.

The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa (1876) Riverside, California

Presidential Lounge | Signature Drink: W.H. Taft’s Soixante Quinze

The luxurious Presidential Lounge at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa in Riverside, California, exudes sophistication. Every corner, from the hand-carved bar to the dimly lit nooks, whispers of political strategy, literary musings, and social revolutions. The Presidential Lounge was originally a two-story, four-bedroom family suite. In 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt was on the campaign trail in California and retired for the evening to his suite. The following day, the inn’s owner, Frank Miller, enlisted Roosevelt's aid in the ceremonial replanting of one of Riverside's two parent navel orange trees in the hotel's main courtyard. Dressed in a top hat and tails, and armed with a shovel, the President planted the tree that would help spawn California's navel orange industry. Following his departure, the rooms he occupied were christened as the Presidential Suite in honor of his visit. The presidential connection was solidified several decades later when Richard Nixon married Thelma Catherine “Pat” Ryan in the Presidential Lounge. Today, guests can see portraits of the presidents who have visited The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa. These presidential portraits are replicas of the presidents’ official portraits, painted by Bonnie Brown and commissioned by Duane Roberts, the inn’s owner and historic preservationist. The signature drinks at the Presidential Lounge are a nod to presidential guests: W.H. Taft’s Soixante Quinze, Herbert Hoover’s Honey Buzz, Reagan’s Orange Blossom Martini, and Teddy Roosevelt’s Espresso Martini. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa is a marvel of Mission Revival-style architecture blended with elements of Spanish Gothic, Moorish, and Mediterranean Revival styles. The Presidential Lounge retains these stylistic flourishes, with rich wood accents, original tile work which includes a mosaic of the presidential seal, stained-glass windows depicting Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor, and Mary of Burgundy, ornate ceilings, and antique furnishings, making the Presidential Lounge a museum, as well as a bar. The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1996 and dates to 1876.

Hotel Monteleone (1886) New Orleans, Louisiana

Carousel Bar | Signature Drink: Vieux Carre

Overlooking Royal Street in the French Quarter since 1886, Hotel Monteleone is a New Orleans landmark and is home to perhaps the best-known bar on this list: the Carousel Bar, which opened inside Hotel Monteleone in 1949 as the city’s first and only rotating bar. Built inside the hotel’s former Swan Room, the Carousel Bar quickly became famous for its slowly rotating bar. Reinventions and redesigns of the space turned the bar into the delightfully ostentatious merry-go-round that it is today. Guests lucky enough to find an empty seat at the bar—or with the fortitude to stand in line—enjoy a gentle rotation every 15 minutes. If the ride on the bar is not important, guests can opt for table service while relaxing in one of the stationary lounge areas surrounding the bar. The cocktail menu features crafted cocktails, non-alcoholic cocktails, and bar bites. Preceding the arrival of the Carousel Bar by several years, the hotel’s signature drink, the Vieux Carre cocktail, was invented at Hotel Monteleone in 1938 by Head Bartender Walter Bergeron. The hotel is famous for its literary connections, which are described in detail in The 2024 Top 25 Historic Hotels of America® Most Literary Hotels List, and the bar’s most famous return guest was Truman Capote. A regular at the Carousel Bar, he jokingly told its patrons that he had been born inside the establishment. Hotel Monteleone was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1999.

The Algonquin Hotel Times Square, Autograph Collection (1901) New York, New York

Blue Bar | Signature Drinks: The Hamlet and Dorothy Parker

The Blue Bar at The Algonquin Hotel Times Square, Autograph Collection is not just a storied bar: it is a living piece of New York City’s cultural fabric. First opening in 1933, just after the repeal of Prohibition, the Blue Bar quickly became the after-hours home to some of the 20th century’s most iconic artists, writers, and performers. The Blue Bar’s legacy is intertwined with the Algonquin Round Table, the legendary group of writers, critics, and wits who frequented the hotel and helped define American literary culture. Although their debates and bon mots were often shared in the dining room, their evenings routinely spilled into the Blue Bar, where the creative conversations continued over cocktails. Served today, the Dorothy Parker cocktail pays homage to one of the most notable members of the Algonquin Round Table. But why is the bar blue? John Barrymore, a frequent guest and one of the era’s most celebrated actors, famously persuaded the hotel to install blue lighting gels above the bar’s fixtures. He believed that the cooler hues were more flattering for a pale complexion—especially his own. This theatrical touch gave the bar its name and signature glow, which remains a beloved feature to this day. The Hamlet cocktail honors one of Barrymore’s most famous roles. Today, visitors can enjoy the unmistakable caricatures of Al Hirschfeld, the legendary artist and longtime Algonquin regular, whose whimsical line drawings immortalized Broadway’s biggest stars. In a city constantly evolving, the Blue Bar remains a timeless refuge, both intimate and grand, where the city’s cultural heritage is not only preserved, but experienced. A stop at the Blue Bar is an opportunity to sip where history was made and sit in the very space that helped shape New York’s literary and theatrical identity. The Algonquin Hotel Times Square, Autograph Collection was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2023 and dates to 1901.

Omni Mount Washington (1902) Bretton Woods, New Hampshire

The Cave | Signature Drink: Prohibition Punch

Tucked beneath the historic Omni Mount Washington in Bretton Woods, New Hampshire, The Cave speakeasy has served drinks for over 100 years. Originally constructed in 1902 as a squash court, it was later transformed into a bar and became one of the most famous speakeasies in Northern New England during the Prohibition era. The bar featured several secretive elements to avoid detection by law enforcement, including a trapdoor for storing whiskey, a stash of teacups for discreet drinking, and a removable brick in the wall that offered a view of the road so that patrons could see police officers approaching from the driveway. The bar's lore runs deep, with stories suggesting that Joseph Kennedy helped supply the resort with liquor during this time. Babe Ruth was a regular guest, and Bob Hope is said to have performed at the resort in the 1920s. Today, The Cave still carries the mystique of its past, with its stone walls and tucked-away location serving as a nod to the rebellious glamour of the Prohibition years. The Cave’s signature drink is Prohibition Punch, a colorful and flavorful cocktail that reflects the bar’s roots in the Prohibition era. Made with Bacardí, Malibu, and Goslings dark rum, Peach Schnapps, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grenadine, the cocktail captures the spirit of a time when gathering for a drink required secrecy and a bit of flair. While rich in history, The Cave remains a relaxing and inviting space for guests. It is a favorite après-ski spot in the winter, and a year-round favorite for guests looking to unwind. Outfitted with televisions, The Cave is also a popular place for guests to catch a game, blending the speakeasy’s historic character with casual, modern ambiance. Omni Mount Washington Resort was inducted as a Charter Member of Historic Hotels of America in 1989.

Le Pavillon, New Orleans, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel (1907) New Orleans, Louisiana

Bar 1803 | Signature Drink: That Voodoo Woman

Tucked within Le Pavillon, New Orleans, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel—built in 1907 and woven into the fabric of New Orleans’s history—Bar 1803 is a spirited tribute to the historic hotel’s Prohibition-era past. Once a discreet gathering place for politicians and local dignitaries, the bar’s original incarnation was accessed via a secret underground passage connecting the hotel’s basement to another building two blocks away. This basement is also rumored to be where the assassination of politician Huey Long was plotted. Today, Bar 1803 honors its speakeasy legacy with floor-to-ceiling velvet drapery, a hidden menu tucked discreetly on the hotel’s website for only the most inquisitive to discover, and a moody atmosphere, featuring a bewitching portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte—complete with a surprising optical illusion. Named after the year that Napoleon signed the Louisiana Purchase, the bar draws cultural and heritage travelers and late-night visitors eager to explore its secret history and rich architectural design, recently reimagined through a five-year preservation effort. While soaking in the history of this setting, guests can savor elevated versions of New Orleans classics—from seafood gumbo to shrimp po’boys—and sip signature cocktails, such as the blood-orange-kissed, That Voodoo Woman. Upon request, guests can pair their evening libations with an expert-led hotel history tour, which may include a peek at Napoleon’s original Carrera marble bathtub upstairs, in the hotel’s Napoleon Suite. Live music sets the tone on select evenings. Le Pavillon, New Orleans, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1994.

Fairmont San Francisco (1907) San Francisco, California

Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar | Signature Drinks: Classic Tiki Cocktails

The Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar at the Fairmont San Francisco is a unique and iconic tiki bar known for its immersive, over-the-top atmosphere and commitment to the tiki aesthetic. The tiki bar’s popularity stems from its blend of unmatched décor, handcrafted cocktails, and lively entertainment, all set within a space that was once a grand indoor swimming pool. The concept was born in the late 1940s, when the hotel’s owner decided that the Fairmont Plunge pool could be put to better use. He decided to convert the pool area into a restaurant and bar named after the S.S. Tonga, a real ship found moored in the mud nearby. Guests were soon dining on Chinese food, enjoying exotic drinks on the schooner’s deck, gazing into the blue water of the former Fairmont Plunge, now featuring a floating stage for the orchestra, in the Tonga Room. The ambiance was heightened by staged tropical storms, complete with lightning and misty rain falling from concealed sprinklers. The Tonga Room is a treasured local landmark to this day. The space is still filled with nautical details, like ship masts, rigging, and salvaged wood, along with traditional tiki elements like lava rocks and wood carvings. The Island Groove band plays nightly on the floating barge, and the dance floor is made from the remains of a lumber schooner, providing a lively and fun atmosphere. Naturally, the Tonga Room is known for its Mai Tai, Fog Cutter, Zombie, and other classic tiki cocktails served in unique glassware. The Tonga Room still features simulated tropical rainstorms, adding a sense of drama to the immersive experience. Fairmont San Francisco was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2001 and dates to 1907.

Hotel Boulderado (1909) Boulder, Colorado

License No. 1 | Signature Drink: Espresso Martini

When Hotel Boulderado first opened its doors in 1909, Boulder, Colorado, was a dry city. While national Prohibition lasted from 1920 until 1933, Boulder’s own liquor laws stretched from 1907 until 1967. After the restrictions were repealed in the city, Hotel Boulderado was one of the first to get a liquor license in Boulder, and the hotel opened the Catacombs Restaurant and Bar in 1969. Before the basement space was turned into a restaurant and bar, it was originally used for storage, laundry services, and heating in the historic hotel. A local legend says that during the Prohibition era, tunnels connected different underground spaces around Boulder. However, there is no historical or physical evidence that shows that this local legend is real. In 2014, using this local lore as inspiration, the hotel transformed its basement restaurant space into a new bar called License No. 1. This underground speakeasy-style cocktail lounge is a tribute to the elegant Western charm of early-20th century Boulder. Guests can step back in time with classic, handcrafted libations, chef-prepared small plates, and a lively atmosphere when they enter this hidden gem in the heart of downtown Boulder. The energy in the room is fueled by the bar’s signature cocktail: the Espresso Martini. Mixologists at License No. 1 whip up the perfect Espresso Martini, made with Hoodoo Chicory Liqueur, Café Bustelo instant coffee (trust the bartenders on this), and local vodka infused with Boxcar Coffee Roasters coffee beans. Today, License No. 1 continues with the very same liquor license that was first issued in 1969 and is known as a unique location for a fun date night, to catch intimate live music performances, or enjoy a comedy show. Hotel Boulderado was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1996.

The Gunter Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk (1909) San Antonio, Texas

Bar 414

Housed within the walls of The Gunter Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk, a historic Texas hotel that dates to 1909, Bar 414 is more than just a bar—it is a living tribute to a pivotal moment in American music history. The name refers to the guestroom at The Gunter Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk where iconic blues artist, Robert Johnson, had his very first recording session in November 1936. The atmosphere of the space evokes a speakeasy, with saloon flair, and Bar 414 invites guests to step into a story that helped shape blues, rock, and modern music. Bar 414 is a cultural and sensory experience—a place where music, myth, and mixology converge under the roof of one of San Antonio’s most iconic hotels. Opening in 2014, Bar 414 has a moody, speakeasy-inspired ambiance—equal parts refined and intimate. With dim lighting, plush leather seating, and vintage jazz and blues softly playing in the background, the space exudes a timeless, romantic allure. Locals know it as a hidden gem in downtown San Antonio, while travelers often discover it through its connection to Robert Johnson. Tucked behind an ornate gallery wall in the lobby, Bar 414 reveals itself through a concealed door wrapped in custom artwork by Chicago artist Jordan Martins. A shadow box displaying vintage guitar picks quietly hints at the bar’s name, a tribute to Robert Johnson’s historic recording session in Room 414. In that guestroom, Johnson recorded many of his most enduring songs, including “Sweet Home Chicago” and “Cross Road Blues.” These recordings became foundational to American blues and rock music. Today, Bar 414 honors this legacy not only in name, but in spirit, paying tribute to the mystique and artistry of that recording session. The Gunter Hotel has hosted notable guests since its opening—from military generals and presidents, to musicians and celebrities—making the bar a natural gathering place for stories to unfold. The echoes of jazz, blues, and Prohibition-era secrecy still linger in the bar, offering guests a direct connection to San Antonio’s rich cultural history. The Gunter Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2025.

The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection (1925) Washington, District of Columbia

Edgar Bar & Kitchen | Signature Drink: The Centennial

Edgar Bar & Kitchen, located in The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection in Washington, D.C., offers libations in a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Edgar Bar & Kitchen features two bars, a small lounge area, a full dining room, and Tolson, a private events space. The name, Edgar, pays homage to one of the city’s most infamous power players, J. Edgar Hoover, first Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. During his time in Washington, Hoover dined at the hotel almost daily with his assistant, Clyde Tolson, for 20 years. Hoover was known for ordering the exact same items from the menu every time that he dined at this historic hotel: cottage cheese, grapefruit, and iceberg lettuce. He always brought his own salad dressing. Today, the bar and restaurant feature ephemera from the hotel’s illustrious history, including vintage liquor bottles. Edgar Bar is awash in dark wood, deep green subway tile, and vintage elements that play into the approachability of this bistro-inspired space. In honor of the hotel’s 2025 centennial celebration, Edgar Bar’s signature drink is currently The Centennial. This riff on the Old Fashioned uses the hotel's specialty WhistlePig 10-year Rye Barrel Pick, which has been fat-washed with bacon, and WhistlePig’s Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup for a smoky, savory sip. The Centennial is served on a silver tray with a custom Mayflower coaster as a keepsake. The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection was inducted as a Charter Member of Historic Hotels of America in 1989 and dates to 1925.

Hassayampa Inn (1927) Prescott, Arizona

Glass Bar | Signature Drink: Dirty Martini

Stepping into the Glass Bar at the historic Hassayampa Inn in Prescott, Arizona, is like stepping back in time. Known for its ornate, carved-wood ceilings, stained-glass accents, and hand-etched glass details, the Glass Bar radiates an ambiance that is both intimate and grand. Every detail tells a story, whispering echoes of Prescott's past while inviting guests to create memories of their own. The hotel dates to 1927, but this Arizona city has hosted Prescott Frontier Days—known as the World’s Oldest Rodeo and inducted into the Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame—since 1888. Hassayampa Inn was built to provide the growing town of Prescott with a proper, modern inn, and travelers coming from all over the country to attend the annual event have stayed at the inn. For the past 19 years, the hotel bar has been helmed by Huck Johnson. More than just the lead bartender, Huck is a historian, offering tales of the inn’s past with the same care that he pours into his signature Dirty Martini with blue cheese-stuffed olives—a local favorite. The Glass Bar is not just known for its unique atmosphere, but also for its rich history of live music. Terry Furlong, of the Grass Roots, performed at the Glass Bar for over a decade, filling the room with soulful melodies that became the soundtrack to countless nights. Long before that, the bar hosted singing cowboys—including Tom Mix and his friends in the early 1900s—bringing the spirit of the Old West alive through music and storytelling. Hassayampa Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1996.

Mayflower Park Hotel (1927) Seattle, Washington

Oliver’s | Signature Drink: Martini

Enjoying a cocktail at the Mayflower Park Hotel, which opened in 1927, has been a Seattle tradition since 1949. The bar was first known as the Carousel Room, a small, cozy bar, and the first hotel bar in Seattle, and perhaps in the entire state of Washington. When the bar was reimagined by new owners in 1976, Washington State blue laws still prohibited anyone from looking into a bar where hard liquor was sold. When the blue laws were struck down, the owners added 10 floor-to-ceiling windows, each with 25 panes of glass, making Oliver’s the first daylight bar in the state. An elegant downtown bar, Oliver’s is still filled with natural light due to its stunning floor-to-ceiling windows. The tabletops are made from marble, salvaged by the hotel’s owner from a historic building down the street, and an imported Italian crystal chandelier hangs above the bar’s patrons. Located on a busy corner in downtown Seattle, Oliver’s is the perfect place to unwind, people-watch, and enjoy the stunning downtown location. Oliver’s is famous for its award-winning Martini. In fact, it was the hotel’s general manager who created the Seattle Classic Martini Challenge after an innocent challenge to other hospitality leaders in the city. Mayflower Park Hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1999.

Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center (1927) Baton Rouge, Louisiana

The Tunnel Speakeasy

Tucked beneath the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, The Tunnel Speakeasy is more than just a hotel bar: it is a hidden piece of Baton Rouge’s history. The bar and lounge is located inside an actual underground tunnel once used by Louisiana governors and legislators to avoid the press and to move discreetly between this historic hotel and another hotel across the street. Infamous politician Huey Long worked and stayed in the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center (then known as the Heidelberg Hotel) throughout his political career and even conducted business from his suite while under a looming impeachment from his governorship. The media frenzy often caused the need for a quick escape, which The Tunnel provided. Today, original brick archways, low lighting, and vintage décor create a rich, Prohibition-era atmosphere. Memorabilia throughout the bar highlights the hotel’s storied past, including visits from figures like Huey Long and John F. Kennedy. For travelers looking to sip in a lounge with a past, The Tunnel is a hidden gem worth discovering. Much like the speakeasies during Prohibition, guests cannot simply walk into The Tunnel Speakeasy on a whim. Space is limited and the vibe is “hush hush,” so reservations are necessary to gain entry. Once a visitor makes their reservation, a text message is sent to their phone with instructions to enter. While the cocktail menu rotates, it leans into classic spirits and vintage recipes, including absinthe—a nod to the indulgent tastes of the early 1900s. Live music plays inside The Tunnel on Thursday nights, called Gin Joint Jams, featuring local artists. Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2007 and dates to 1927.

Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza (1931) Cincinnati, Ohio

The Lounge at 1931 | Signature Drink: Chef’s Old Fashioned

Guests can step into The Lounge at 1931 inside the Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza and experience a stunning tribute to Art Deco-style design, history, and hospitality. The hotel was dry when it opened in 1931 during Prohibition, but it opened with a breathtaking interior that blended French Art Deco-style with Louis XV-style flourishes and theatrical flair. The Lounge at 1931 was introduced during a major renovation in the early 1980s. Surrounding the bar area are original murals painted by Louis Grell, which were completed during the early days of the hotel’s opening. These vibrant works of art illustrate the themes of recreation and imagination, with the distinct outline of the Carew Tower featured in each mural. Visitors will also find other notable Cincinnati landmarks subtly woven into the depicted scenes, reinforcing the hotel’s artistic narrative and celebrating the city’s character. Overhead, the ceiling and portals reflect Egyptian influences with their step pyramid designs, while the ziggurat-shaped fountain at the far end of the Palm Court commands attention with its intricate details: a ram’s head flanked by majestic sea horses wearing lotus crowns. Crafted by the famed Rookwood Pottery studio in the Mount Adams neighborhood of Cincinnati, these design features—alongside dolphins and mermaids woven throughout the space—represent traditional Art Deco-style motifs of protection, youth, and guardianship for travelers. The signature drink at The Lounge at 1931 is the Chef’s Old Fashioned, created using New Riff Single NP Select Bourbon sourced from across the river in Kentucky. The large ice cube contains simple syrup and bitters, so as the ice cube melts, the drink transforms. This signature cocktail is garnished with a twist of orange and an Amarena cherry. Today, the bar remains a timeless destination—where history, design, and hospitality converge into an unforgettable experience for guests. Hilton Cincinnati Netherland Plaza was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1991.

The Hotel Hershey^® (1933) Hershey, Pennsylvania

Iberian Lounge | Signature Drink: Hershey's^® Kisses™ Signature Chocolate Martini

The Iberian Lounge is deeply rooted in the history of The Hotel Hershey^®, which opened in 1933 and was designed to resemble a beautiful Spanish villa that Milton S. Hershey visited while traveling with his late wife, Kitty. Because the hotel opened during Prohibition, the Iberian Lounge was originally intended to be a reading lounge, not a bar. When the 18th Amendment was repealed in late 1933, The Hotel Hershey^® added a wine cellar and cocktail lounge to the Garden Terrace. It was not until 1968 that the Iberian Lounge became a bar and lounge. In keeping with the Spanish-inspired aesthetic of The Hotel Hershey^®, the Iberian Lounge was designed to evoke a Spanish-inspired atmosphere, with oriental rugs, oak-paneled ceiling and columns, tinted walls, comfortable chairs and settees, and a charming fireplace. One of the most eye-catching features of the Iberian Lounge is the mural depicting a Spanish waterfront scene, painted by the hotel’s original interior designer, Robert von Ezdorf. The mural creates an optical illusion that the tile pathway is always directed towards the viewer, no matter where the viewer stands. The designs found in the mural are repeated in the lobby, on the balconies, and throughout the mosaic tile flooring. Naturally, the hotel is known for its signature chocolate cocktails, including the Hershey's® Kisses™ Signature Chocolate Martini, but is also proud to serve over 100 whiskies from around the world, as well as savory fare, like the guest favorite, Bavarian pretzel and cheese board. From its origins as a reading lounge to its transformation into a refined bar decades later, the space embodies nearly a century of American history, hospitality, and dedication to the company’s core purpose to support the Milton Hershey School. The Hotel Hershey^® was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1991.

The Hermosa Inn (1935) Paradise Valley, Arizona

LON’s Last Drop | Signature Drink: Last Drop

LON’s Last Drop is inspired by the history and people behind The Hermosa Inn, originally built in 1935 by cowboy artist, Lon Megargee. A true renaissance man of the Southwest, Megargee constructed the estate as his home and studio, using hand-formed adobe bricks and local materials. He added the role of host to his repertoire when he opened up his home as a guesthouse, welcoming artists, writers, and other likeminded intellectuals. The restaurant and bar are located in the area that once served as Megargee’s studio. These spaces retain much of the studio’s original character, offering guests a rare glimpse into Arizona's artistic and architectural heritage. The bar features exposed sections of Megargee's original adobe walls, allowing guests to see the hay, straw, and clay composition that was typical of the era. The original adobe fireplace remains a focal point, evoking the warmth and spirit of Megargee's time. In a nod to the bar's artistic origins, it also displays prints of Megargee's work, including his most iconic piece, The Last Drop from His Stetson, commissioned over a century ago by the Stetson Hat Company. Icons from Whitney Houston to Stephen Hawking and Sandra Day O'Connor have visited The Hermosa Inn. The signature cocktail at the bar is, fittingly, the Last Drop, crafted with High West Double Rye whiskey, Luxardo Apricot Liqueur, sweet vermouth, and blood orange. It honors Megargee’s wild spirit, while offering a refined taste of the region that he called home. LON’s Last Drop blends rustic charm with understated elegance. It is known for its warm, welcoming ambiance—a place where locals and travelers alike gather under candlelight. With its handcrafted textures, historical details, and Southwestern spirit, the atmosphere is relaxed yet refined: intimate, story-filled, and unmistakably Arizona. The Hermosa Inn was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2011.

The Wort Hotel (1941) Jackson, Wyoming

Silver Dollar Bar

The Silver Dollar Bar at The Wort Hotel has entertained and enticed guests since the earliest days of tourism in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. From the early days of cowboys and poker games, the Silver Dollar Bar has remained a lasting tradition in Jackson Hole. Adjacent to the bar, the Silver Dollar Showroom provides the best nightlife in Jackson Hole, including Bluegrass Tuesdays with local favorite, One Ton Pig. Four times a year, the Silver Dollar Showroom in the Silver Dollar Bar provides a unique offering for music lovers by hosting a noteworthy singer-songwriter for a special performance. Previous Showroom Sessions have featured 4-time Grammy Award winner, Steve Wariner; 10-time CMA Musician of the Year recipient, Mac McAnally; and legendary jazz guitarist, Doc Powell. The name of the bar comes from the 65-foot-long serpentine bar inlaid with 2,032 uncirculated 1921 silver dollars from the Denver Mint. In fact, more than 4,000 uncirculated 1921 Morgan silver dollars can be found throughout The Wort Hotel. The best displays of these silver dollars can be found inlaid in the original Silver Dollar Bar and in the Silver Dollar Showroom’s bar. The silver dollars were inlaid using a technique that would make it impossible for patrons to pry the coins from the bar. Holes were drilled into the Formica bar, slightly smaller than the silver dollars, and then the coins were shrunk with dry ice and pressed into the holes. When the silver dollars expanded, the coins were solidly encased within the Formica bar. The bar menu features signature items like burgers, elk gyros, and the hotel's famous corn chowder, along with a large wine list and unique cocktails. The Wort Hotel was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2002 and dates to 1941.

The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton (1956) Dallas, Texas

Bourbon & Banter | Signature Drink: Porto Old Fashioned

The underground speakeasy at The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton—a historic Midcentury Modern-style hotel in Dallas, Texas—was originally home to the hotel’s famed barbershop. Now a speakeasy-style lounge, Bourbon & Banter was once where guests and celebrities performing in the hotel during the 1950s and 1960s stopped in for a trim or shave before attending events, business meetings, or performing on stage in The Statler Ballroom. Since the hotel’s spectacular renovation and reopening in 2017, the space has been home to Bourbon & Banter, where visitors can find history-minded cocktails including a Porto Old Fashioned (Basil Hayden Dark Rye Whiskey, Sagamore Small Batch Rye Whiskey, port wine reduction, chocolate and orange bitters) and a Barrel-Aged Manhattan (WhistlePig Piggyback Rye Whiskey, vermouth blend, Angostura and orange Bitters) crafted by well-known mixologists in Dallas. Like the best speakeasies, this one is tucked out of the way, with the entry in an alcove with a 1950s-era phone booth next to a classic shoeshine stand. After entering the secret code on the phone, guests can discover the speakeasy’s elevated yet relaxed atmosphere, with Old Hollywood photos and news clippings adorning the walls. When guests enter the speakeasy, they should keep an eye out for the photograph of the original hotel building, circa 1956, when The Statler opened, in order to get a peek into the past. Opening at 7 p.m., live jazz music plays every Thursday, comedy showcases are on tap on select Wednesdays, and the speakeasy space can be reserved for private events. Reservations are required in order to get the entry code to the speakeasy. The Statler Dallas, Curio Collection by Hilton was inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 2018.

“Congratulations to the selections for this year’s inaugural Top 25 Historic Hotels of America Most Historic Bars, Taverns, and Speakeasies list. These historic settings have been preserved or reinvented as fun and authentic destinations, where culture-minded travelers can relax and enjoy a night off,” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President, Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide. “While it is a collection of very different venues with their own aesthetics, vibes, and styles, each of the bars on the list celebrates the history of its city and its community, all united by impeccable hospitality, fascinating stories, unique surroundings, and expertly crafted drinks.”

About Historic Hotels of America^®

Historic Hotels of America^® is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels from across the United States of America. The National Trust for Historic Preservation was chartered by U.S. Congress in 1949 and is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The National Trust for Historic Preservation is leading the movement to save places where our history happened. To be nominated and selected for membership in this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historical significance. Of the more than 300 historic hotels inducted into Historic Hotels of America from 44 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, all historic hotels faithfully preserve their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity. For more information, please visit HistoricHotels.org.