Top 10 Historic Hotels In Northern California, USA - Updated 2024

Sucheta
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read

Northern California, locally known as NorCal, comprises as many as 48 counties. Some of its major cities include San Francisco, San Jose, Jamestown, Sacramento, Fresno, Sonoma, and many more. There is no doubt that the region offers ample things to see and do for all kinds of tourists. From camping at Yosemite National Park to enjoying the wonders of San Francisco, you just cannot run out of options in the region. You can also go paddleboarding in Lake Tahoe, find countless hiking and trekking spots, have a beer at Russian River Brewing Company, watch the fish with the kids at Monterey Bay Aquarium, or taste fresh wines at Halter Ranch Vineyard. Check out the top historic hotels in Northern California, USA, for a comfortable stay.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 03, 2024.

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1. The Monterey Hotel (from USD 192)

Boasting a stunning Victorian façade that will make a mark the moment you see it, this historic hotel is located in the center of downtown Monterey. It has 69 well-appointed guestrooms featuring hand-crafted wood furnishings and plantation-style shutters. Some of them also have fireplaces and wet bars. A few rooms are pet-friendly, too.

No matter whether you are traveling with family or are on business, this hotel will treat you well. From daily housekeeping service to an on-site beauty shop, this place has everything to take care of your comfort. Free Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property, however, car parking facilities are not available here.

Stayed at this property?

The Monterey Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 407 Calle Principal
76.27 km (47.4 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Non-smoking rooms Facilities for disabled guests Internet services Lift Express check-in/check-out

2. MacArthur Place Inn & Spa, Sonoma (from USD 1066)

What was founded over a century ago as a family estate, vineyard, and ranch has now been transformed into a luxury spa hotel boasting lush green grounds and historic farm buildings. The moment you set foot on this property, you will be greeted by acres upon acres of intimate gardens, historic edifices, winding cobblestone pavements, fire pits, and more. You will feel as if you have stepped into history.

A great place to stay, especially if you are on a romantic getaway, this property boasts a mid-century outdoor pool, hot tub, and a great spa and wellness center. Its accommodations are comfy and cozy while the on-site restaurants offer a variety of cuisines you can enjoy. In the evening, you can enjoy complimentary wine-tasting sessions as well.

Stayed at this property?

MacArthur Place Inn & Spa

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 29 East MacArthur Street
124.93 km (77.7 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre

3. Historic Cary House Hotel, Placerville (from USD 110)

Originally constructed and inaugurated in 1857 by William Cary, an East Coast businessman, the Historic Cary House Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in California. This stunning property has been in existence through the age of the Gold Rush. After the original wooden structure was destroyed by fire in 1849, it was reconstructed in brick in 1857. The hotel served as the major hub of gold exchange and lodging during the Gold Rush.

The property is located right within the historic Placerville city center and effectively melds the 19th-century charm with modern-day conveniences. Some of its elegantly furnished and well-equipped family rooms also have built-in kitchenettes. The hotel has a beautiful garden where you can spend some good time with your kids and pets.

Stayed at this property?

Historic Cary House Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: 300 Main Street
183.49 km (114.1 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Golf course (within 3 km) Garden Terrace Non-smoking rooms Facilities for disabled guests

4. National Hotel & Restaurant, Jamestown (from USD 197)

In for some haunted adventure this season? If yes, then you should definitely check this place out. Established in 1859 in the gold-rush town of Jamestown, this hotel has survived two destructive fires and has been continuously operational without a break. But the most curious thing about it is its own friendly ghost named “Flo”, a woman in white seen floating across its corridors, windows, and dining rooms.

The hotel is adorned with antique furniture, especially in its lavish restaurant that serves delectable gourmet cuisine for lunch and dinner. The family-friendly property is non-smoking throughout and pet-friendly too. You can indulge in several on-site and off-site activities such as hiking, cycling, fishing, and skiing.

Stayed at this property?

The National Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: 18183 Main Street
143.27 km (89.1 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Pets allowed Golf course (within 3 km) Non-smoking rooms Fishing Skiing Casino Free parking

California Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of... Read more

Tours by Stephanie

5. The Holbrooke Hotel, Grass Valley (from USD 188)

A California State Landmark since 1974, the Holbrooke Hotel has seen its share of good and bad times throughout history. From cowboys, Victorian Madames, US Presidents, and renowned literati, this property has hosted a great number of esteemed guests from its inception. It was originally constructed in 1852 and has undergone numerous meticulous renovations before becoming what it is today.

A fully air-conditioned property, it is also non-smoking throughout and thus suitable for families with kids. Their on-site restaurant has sumptuous American food on the menu. Free Wi-Fi and public parking are available on premises. You can also take your pets along to this pet-friendly hotel.

Stayed at this property?

Holbrooke Hotel

Wifi Available Wheelchair accessible

Address: 212 W Main St
225.08 km (139.9 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Meeting/banquet facilities Bar Non-smoking rooms Facilities for disabled guests Barber/beauty shop

6. Stanford Park Hotel, Menlo Park (from USD 537)

Situated right next to the world-renowned Stanford University campus on the San Francisco Peninsula, this famous California hotel boasts a glorious 40-year-long history of comfort and luxury right in the heart of Silicon Valley. The hotel’s classic architecture will truly impress you and its garden courtyards, fountains, and secluded private areas will just blow your mind.

The contemporary guestrooms here are elegantly furnished and equipped with plush bathrobes, flat-screen TVs, and work desks. Some of them also offer fabulous views of the courtyard and/or have an indoor fireplace. On site, they feature an outdoor pool, hot tub, gym, business center, and gift shop.

Stayed at this property?

The Stanford Park Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: 100 El Camino Real
36.77 km (22.9 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Garden Non-smoking rooms

7. Hotel Beresford, San Francisco (from USD 72)

This 100-year-old boutique hotel in San Francisco’s Union Square is a family-owned and operated property that ensures a comfortable and enjoyable stay. It is a historic hotel with all the modern amenities you may think of. From its award-winning 1960s restaurant design to its central location, you will enjoy every bit this place has to offer.

It features thoughtfully decorated rooms with a warm & welcoming ambiance. On site, several facilities are provided to guests at this place, including continental breakfast each morning, free Wi-Fi throughout, a 24-hour business center, and valet parking service at an additional charge. Moreover, it offers pet-friendly rooms as well.

Stayed at this property?

Hotel Beresford

7.4 User Rating

Address: 635 Sutter Street, San Francisco Downtown, San Francisco (CA), United States, 94102
77.17 km (48.0 mi) from Hellyer County Park

8. Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton (from USD 308)

This stunning property is housed in the historic Hayes Mansion in San Jose, California, and sits on several acres of breathtaking green space that will enchant you. Its guest units include luxurious single & double rooms, suites, and studios, some of which also come with balconies offering impressive views.

It is an eco-friendly hotel offering a good variety of dining options for breakfast and lunch. On-site recreational facilities include a hot tub, fenced outdoor pool, fitness center, and a beautiful garden where you can spend some alone time. The property also has a cash machine and 24-hour front desk on site for your convenience.

Stayed at this property?

Hayes Mansion San Jose, Curio Collection by Hilton

Wheelchair accessible

Address: 200 Edenvale Avenue
2.36 km (1.5 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Pets allowed Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Tennis court

9. The Darling, Visalia (from USD 234)

Sitting in the stately building of the former Tulare County Courthouse Annex, this boutique hotel is located at a convenient driving distance from Sequoia National Park. The hotel building boasts the stylish decor and architecture of the Art Deco period, which has been very subtly combined with some of the most modern amenities making it a great place to stay for all kinds of guests.

Non-smoking throughout, it is a nice place to take your family to. Its guest units are equipped with a kettle, wardrobe, safety deposit box, flat-screen TV, and more. The on-site outdoor pool is open throughout the year. If you are a fitness freak, you can head to their state-of-the-art gym. You can also spend some quality time with your family in their beautiful garden or watch a fascinating sunset from their terrace.

Stayed at this property?

The Darling

Wifi Available

Address: 210 North Court Street
248.06 km (154.2 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Room service Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Fitness centre Garden

10. The Jamestown Hotel (from USD 140)

Situated near the famous Yosemite National Park, this historic hotel testifies to the lost charm and glory of the Gold Rush era. Originally built in 1858 and then destroyed and reconstructed multiple times, it features beautifully paneled walls, oak-framed hallways, brass chandeliers, and oakwood flooring. In fact, in 1938, the hotel was also converted into a hospital with a morgue for some time and it is from there that the stories about it being haunted came up.

Currently, the hotel features spacious guestrooms with comfy linen and private baths. The on-site restaurant features a special cocktail hour so if you are looking to spend some quality time with your companions, this place has got you covered. They also have a state-of-the-art massage center on site where you can head if you want to pamper yourself a bit.

Stayed at this property?

Jamestown Hotel

Wifi Available

Address: 18153 Main Street
143.24 km (89.0 mi) from Hellyer County Park

Parking Restaurant Meeting/banquet facilities Bar 24-HOUR FRONT DESK Golf course (within 3 km) Terrace Non-smoking rooms

Have a blast in Northern California

No matter where in Northern California you are headed to, book a stay at one of these historic hotels and rest assured your holiday will be amazing. So, pack up now and get ready to step back into history by staying at one of these stunning old-fashioned hotels.

If you’re looking for other unique accommodations, you might want to check out the best cabins in North California.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Sucheta embarked on her career as a creative writer and editor before transitioning to SEO writing. In previous corporate roles, she not only crafted creative and technical content, but also...Read more

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