A Stay at These Historic Hotels Is Like Traveling Back in Time

The Sunset Travel Awards celebrate the best in travel in the West. These hotels are the 2025 winners of the Where to Stay: Historic Hotels category. Check out the complete list of winners here. For our definitive and searchable travel directory to help you plan your next trip in the West, click here.

The National Exchange Hotel

Kat Alves

California history and contemporary hospitality meet at this 1856 Gold Rush era landmark that has been meticulously restored to preserve its Victorian splendor. Craft cocktails, relaxing guest rooms, thoughtful and satisfying food embracing the best of the local regenerative agriculture, and a building worthy of inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places make this a must-stay in Grass Valley.

The Crawford Hotel

The rumors are true: We love a locomotive. So naturally, when this boutique luxury retreat housed within Denver’s iconic Union Station opened recently, we were all in. With 112 reimagined rooms, a soaring Great Hall, and access to top-tier dining from James Beard Award-winning chefs, it’s a stylish gateway to LoDo’s vibrant energy.

La Fonda on the Plaza

This century-old Santa Fe hotel is a cultural institution. Known as Santa Fe’s living room thanks to its welcoming lobby, full of 800 pieces of local art, beamed ceilings, beautiful tilework, and excellent restaurants, La Fonda satisfies locals and guests alike.

Washington School House Hotel

In a world of supersized hospitality, this 1889 schoolhouse in Park City is right-sized luxury: just 12 spectacular suites and rooms, a chic ski lounge, personal ski valet, a heated pool, private chef, 24-hour concierge service, and architectural charm that’s rarer than ever.

The Mining Exchange Hotel

Originally built in 1902, this spot that once hosted fortune-seeking entrepreneurs at the turn of the century (as in, two centuries ago) has had a radical top-to-bottom glow up and now is a Colorado Springs heritage meets high-design hotel with craft cocktails, an on-site art gallery, wellness programs, and James Beard-nomination worthy food.

Holbrooke Hotel

Originally built in 1852 and lovingly restored, the Holbrooke Hotel in Grass Valley blends modern comforts with Gold Rush era charm in a one-of-a-kind landmark property. Located in the heart of town near restaurants, tasting rooms, and historic sites, it’s a rustic yet refined escape that invites guests to slow down and stay awhile.

Hotel Valley Ho

Fresh off an $18 million renovation, this beloved 1956 midcentury Scottsdale resort embraces its roots while delivering all the amenities modern travelers expect: vibrant poppy rooms and suites, the VH Spa offering chromotherapy saunas and other treatments, and two pools with two vibes to suit any traveler.

Asher Adams

Any hotel that doubles as historic preservation is A-OK in our book. At this Salt Lake City gem, the Union Pacific Depot was transformed into a 225-room blend of railroad era charm and modern sophistication. With train station suites, a sleek new tower, standout dining at Rouser, and a prime location near the Delta Center and Utah’s outdoor wonders, it’s a destination rooted in both legacy and luxury.

Hotel del Coronado

A timeless icon on the California coast, Hotel del Coronado blends over 130 years of storied history with modern luxury across five distinct neighborhoods, from the newly restored Victorian building to the sleek, villa-style Shore House at The Del. And with countless dining and entertainment options imbued with seaside magic and charm including a new outpost of Nobu, there’s hardly a reason to hop off property during your stay.

The Western Hotel and Spa, Ouray

The old Western town of Ouray is one of Colorado’s best-kept secrets, and this groovy restored timber-frame landmark is at its heart: The Western is a boutique stay that reopened in summer 2023 with 16 refined suites, a historic saloon, a wood-fired restaurant, and a brand-new and wonderfully woo-woo subterranean Grotto Spa. With Western charm, custom concierge service, and moody spa vibes carved into the building’s original red brick and stone