Florida's history is as rich and varied as its landscapes, and some of the best places to experience that history are within the walls of its most iconic hotels. From Gilded Age grandeur to quirky beachfront retreats, these historic stays offer more than just a place to sleep. They invite you to step back in time. Whether you're drawn to opulent architecture, celebrity lore, or coastal charm, these nine historic hotels across the Sunshine State each tell a unique story. So pack your bags (and maybe a vintage camera), because these timeless destinations are worth a visit before summer ends.
In no particular order:
The Driftwood Resort - Vero Beach
Built in 1935 by Waldo E. Sexton, this beach‑side inn is on the National Register of Historic Places. Sexton's eccentric taste is showcased through hundreds of artifacts including a collection of 250 bells from ships, trains, churches, and schools, all embedded in the rustic, board‑and‑batten architecture. The breezeway, courtyard cannons, and driftwood façade offer a "beach‑comber" ambiance. Today the Driftwood operates as a hybrid resort, part hotel and part interval timeshare, while preserving its vintage charm.
The Don CeSar - St. Pete Beach
Nicknamed "The Pink Lady," this iconic 1928 resort became the glamorous getaway for F. Scott Fitzgerald, Lou Gehrig, and even FDR during its Jazz Age heyday. It was added to the National Register in 1975 and is a founding member of Historic Hotels of America
The Breakers - Palm Beach
Originally opened in 1896 by Henry Flagler as the Palm Beach Inn, its current Italian Renaissance‑style structure dates to 1926. Listed on the National Register since 1973, it's an expansive 140-acre property on the ocean.
Casa Monica Resort & Spa - St. Augustine
Dating back to 1888, Casa Monica is a Moorish Revival gem built by Franklin W. Smith, later purchased by Henry Flagler. It served as a courthouse in mid‑20th century before being restored in the 1990s.
The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club - St. Petersburg
This Mediterranean‑Revival hotel opened on New Year's Eve 1925 as the Vinoy Park Hotel. Famous guests included Marilyn Monroe, Babe Ruth, Calvin Coolidge, and Herbert Hoover. It joined Historic Hotels of America and the National Register in 1978
Belleview Inn (formerly Belleview‑Biltmore) - Belleair
Opened in 1897 as one of the largest wooden structures in the world ("White Queen of the Gulf"), it was a Gilded Age retreat for Vanderbilts, DuPonts, and Fords. While most of the original was demolished, a preserved wing now operates as a boutique inn
Miami Biltmore Hotel & Country Club - Coral Gables
Built in 1926 by Schultze & Weaver, this Mediterranean/Spanish‑Revival landmark was Florida's tallest building at 315 ft. It later served as a WWII hospital and university campus. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1996
Gasparilla Inn & Club - Boca Grande
Rebuilt in 1928 after a hurricane, this historic inn embodies Old‑Florida sportfishing charm. Set on Gasparilla Island, it features lush grounds and long‑standing traditions
Casa Marina Hotel - Jacksonville Beach
Established in 1925, today part of the Waldorf Astoria group, Casa Marina is well‑known for its storied past and beachfront setting. It has retained its classic architecture while offering upscale modern amenities
My name is Ava Cook and I am a Freshman at Florida Southern College in Lakeland FL. I am currently a B.F.A musical theatre major with a minor in Business Administration. I love reading, singing, acting, dancing, and writing. My favorite part about Vero Beach and Indian River County as a whole is how close the community is. Vero Vine is important to me as it allows me to do my part it bringing the community together also, sharing events, small businesses, and other local happenings. If you have any questions or any recommendations for me, my email is always open [email protected].
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