The 11 Oldest Operating Hotels in the United States

Are you a history buff looking to stay at one of the oldest hotels in the country? If so, you will love the picks on this list! The United States has a rich and unique history, with beautiful architecture dating back hundreds of years. While we don't have thousand-year-old castles like those in Europe, you can still find many interesting places to visit. Long before the Plaza Hotel opened its doors in 1907, people were staying in these quaint inns and luxury resorts. Discover the 11 oldest operating hotels in the United States and learn about their intriguing pasts and notable guests.

1. Concord's Colonial Inn (1716)

This landmark historic hotel sits in a small New England village in Concord, Massachusetts. Its original structure was built in 1716. And while it has passed through many hands and been used for various purposes, the Concord's Colonial Inn has stood in the same spot for 300 years. In 1775, the building stored firearms and supplies during the Revolutionary War. When the British came to seize the items, they were met with the first battle. Every April, residents of Concord celebrate this victory during Patriots' Day.

During the early to mid-1800s, the inn was also a residence. And the most notable of its residents was Henry David Thoreau. The building was given its current name in 1900 and expanded to add more guest rooms in the 1960s. The latest owners bought the property in 2015, and you can still stay book your stay as of today. Prices range between $169 and $240 per night. 

2. Historic Inns of Annapolis (1727)

The Historic Inns of Annapolis are three Victorian buildings in downtown Annapolis, Maryland. The first building is the Governor Calvert House, which opened in 1727. And in 1772, both the Robert Johnson House and the Maryland Inn were built. These buildings have a rich history dating back hundreds of years, and you can still visit them today.

One of the most important events of the nation occurred right next to the Historic Inns. In 1783, George Washington resigned as the Chief of the Continental Army, making way for the country to elect its first official leader. He didn't want America to become a monarchy or government-led country. His actions on this day gave the American people power and the nation's fundamental principle of democracy.

Annapolis was at the center of many historical events during the 1700s. And as such, many important people stayed at the Maryland Inn during this time. Some of those names include Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, Ben Franklin, George Washington, John Adams, Samuel Adams, and Marquis de Lafayette. And today, you can also stay at one of the inns for $150 to over $400 per night. 

3. Faraway Hotel AKA Kelley House (1742)

The Faraway Hotel, once known as the Kelley House, is a charming boutique hotel on Martha's Vineyard. The structure was originally a tavern built in 1742, which eventually turned into an inn. The tavern is also still open today, serving drinks and delighting customers with local cuisine. When the tavern originally opened, it was a popular gathering place for fishermen and whalers. This colonial Massachusetts hotel and tavern is still a local favorite today. Depending on the room you choose, prices range between $250 and over $2,000 a night. 

4. 1754 House (1754)

Located in Woodbury, Connecticut, 1754 House was actually built before 1736 and used as a private residence. But it didn't open as an inn until 1754, hence the name. It is the oldest inn in Connecticut's history and one of the oldest in New England. It was originally a roadside inn called "Curtiss House," named after the owners. And it was a staple in Woodbury for four centuries. New owners renovated and renamed it to 1754 House in 2020. And today, you can visit and be immersed in history, starting at $165 per night. 

5. John Rutledge House Inn (1763)

The John Rutledge House Inn is in Charleston, South Carolina's Historic District. The inn was constructed in 1763 and is a luxury boutique hotel and historical landmark today. It was named after John Rutledge, a politician and one of the signers of the U.S. Constitution who once owned the property. In fact, he helped write parts of the Constitution on the building's second floor. 

Other Notable Oldest Operating Hotels in the United States

6. Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn (1766)

7. The Omni Homestead Resort (1766)

8. The Red Lion Inn (1773)

9. The Inn at Montchanin Village (1799)

10. Kings Courtyard Inn (1853)

11. Omni Parker House (1855)