Historic Southern Hotels You Have To See at Christmastime

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

If you're looking for a festive spot in which to spend the holiday season, turn your eye towards the South's roster of historic hotels. Some have been in operation for over a century, so it's no surprise that they have become places filled with stories and traditions galore. These hotels know how to do the holidays right because they've had years and years of practice. With festive décor, delicious meals, fun events, and lights to spare, they're ideal spots for celebrating the holidays. They're also so picturesque, and there are always plenty of photo ops within their walls. No matter where in the South you are, there's a historic hotel inviting you inside to join in the festivities. Browse some of our favorite long-loved spots below, and be sure to let us know which hotels you think are the most beautiful and have the best celebrations during the holidays. Where are your travels taking you this holiday season?

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Hotel Monteleone

Credit: Courtesy Hotel Monteleone

New Orleans, Louisiana

This historic French Quarter hotel hosts an unforgettable holiday celebration that includes caroling and Réveillon dinners. You can find the Réveillon menu at the hotel’s Criollo Restaurant. hotelmonteleone.com

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The Cloister at Sea Island

Credit: Courtesy The Cloister at Sea Island

Sea Island, Georgia

Each year, this gorgeous coastal retreat hosts a big schedule of can’t-miss holiday happenings including parties, brunches, and gatherings, plus opportunities to decorate gingerbread houses and bake cookies too. seaisland.com

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The Driskill

Credit: Courtesy The Driskill

Austin, Texas

Downtown Austin is home to this stunning historic hotel, which is also a lovely spot to see during the holidays. During December, the hotel hosts elegant holiday teas, a celebratory tree lighting with caroling, and holiday feasts. driskillhotel.com

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The Greenbrier

Credit: Ball & Albanese

White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia

The 200-year history and unforgettable interior designs of this picturesque resort—which is nestled in the beautiful Allegheny Mountains—makes it a must-visit destination during the holidays. greenbrier.com

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The Hermitage Hotel

Credit: Courtesy The Hermitage

Nashville, Tennessee

Stop by this stately hotel on Christmas Day, and you’ll be treated to the historic property’s annual holiday feast, which offers up a big selection of traditional Southern dishes. Another can't-miss holiday meal at The Hermitage Hotel is the Capitol Grille’s prix fixe Christmas dinner. thehermitagehotel.com

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The Inn on Biltmore Estate

Credit: Courtesy The Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asheville, North Carolina

Set on the 19th century estate established by the Vanderbilt family, a stay at this lodging during the holidays puts you in close proximity to the gorgeous decor and fun happenings that occur throughout the property during the Christmas At Biltmore celebrations. biltmore.com

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The Jefferson Hotel

Credit: Courtesy The Jefferson Hotel

Richmond, Virginia

The Jefferson is famed for its holiday celebrations, which include gorgeous decorations, music, meals, and all manner of festivities hosted in the stunning historic hotel. jeffersonhotel.com

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The Peabody Memphis

Credit: Robbie Caponetto

Memphis, Tennessee

This grand hotel hosts holiday celebrations befitting the elegant institution. A tree lighting and Christmas brunch are festive centerpieces of the hotel’s seasonal celebrations. peabodymemphis.com

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Historic Southern Hotels You Have To See at Christmastime