Family travel 5: Presidential hotels offer a connection to US history

Lynn O’Rourke Hayes | (TNS) FamilyTravel.com

Pair history with exploration when you and the family visit a storied hotel and destination inspired by an American president.

Here are five to consider:

The Jefferson (Washington, D.C.)

Get comfortable in this 99-room, famed hotel and learn about the epicurean, intellectual, farmer, inventor and president for whom it was named.

A jewel among historic hotels in the nation’s capital, expect sweeping city views in a top-notch location. You’ll be within a short walk of the Smithsonian, the White House, many museums, monuments and embassies, as well as multiple dining options. Upon arrival, take note of the dramatic lobby sky light that was uncovered in a renovation The hotel’s in-house historian has developed a series of self-guided walking tours, perfect for exploring the city on foot. Your furry friend is also welcome at the Jefferson. Dog bowls, beds, treats and walking maps await four-legged guests and their owners.

For more: jeffersondc.com

The President Abraham Lincoln Hotel (Springfield, Illinois)

Learn about the 16th president during your stay in the home of Lincoln’s presidential library and museum. Visit the well-regarded center featuring exhibits, artifacts, theatrical presentations and guest speakers of interest to the whole family.

Hop on the Springfield Trolley for easy access to more historic sites offering insight into the iconic leader’s contributions to the American story. Then, turn back the clock and imagine life more than 150 years ago while visiting New Salem, a re-creation of Lincoln’s 19th-century frontier village.

For more: alplm.org | https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/spiasdt-president-abraham-lincoln-springfield/

US Grant Hotel (San Diego)

Located in the city’s historic Gaslamp Quarter, this grand hotel was renovated by our 18th president’s son Ulysses S. Grant Jr. and opened in 1910. Enjoy classic architecture combined with modern decor for a relaxing and luxurious family getaway.

Take note of the hotel’s $6.5 million collection of artwork, created by world-renowned artists from various backgrounds. The sculptures, ironwork, murals and paintings express the cultural landmark’s blend of history and modern approach to hospitality. Enjoy nearby shopping, and the famed Southern California beaches and amusement parks are just a short drive away. Ask about the global explorer backpack which includes excursion cards curated by the hotel’s destination experts. You’ll learn about suggested San Diego landmarks to visit including Balboa Park, Torrey Pines Natural Reserve, Cabrillo National Monument, Old Town San Diego and La Jolla Cove.

For more: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/sanlc-the-us-grant-a-luxury-collection-hotel-san-diego

McKinley Grand Hotel (Canton, Ohio)

This hotel is the ideal home base from which to learn about our 25th president. Visit the William McKinley Presidential Library and Museum for interactive, hands-on science exhibits, a planetarium and a historical library.

The permanent McKinley Gallery display chronicles the path of a leader who was teaching in a country school when the Civil War broke out. Born in 1843, he served 14 years in the U.S. House before becoming president. A second term was cut short by his death at the hands of an assassin.

Family travelers may want to also visit the nearby Pro Football Hall of Fame.

For more: mckinleymuseum.org | https://mckinleygrand.ohiobesthotels.com/en/

The Roosevelt (New Orleans)

Create a memorable and multi-faceted family getaway in the Big Easy.

Begin by checking in to this historic 504-room hotel, first officially named to honor President Theodore Roosevelt in 1923 and recognize his efforts to build the Panama Canal, an event that served the city of New Orleans well.

For a brief time, the landmark hotel operated under a different moniker. Then it closed for a $145 million restoration after Hurricane Katrina and reopened, once again, as The Roosevelt.

Just steps beyond the old-world grandeur of the hotel. you’ll find the popular French Quarter with shopping, museums, galleries and, of course, music.

For more: therooseveltneworleans.com

__________

(Lynn O’Rourke Hayes (LOHayes.com) is an author, family travel expert and enthusiastic explorer.  Gather more travel intel on Twitter @lohayes, Facebook, or via FamilyTravel.com)

©2024 FamilyTravel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.