Stay in one of the USA’s 8 most historic houses

For anyone intrigued by the history of the USA, staying in one of these eight accommodations promises to be a thrilling experience – from sleeping in a castle or a railroad tycoon’s mansion to staying in a labyrinthine brownstone that feels more like a museum.

The Mansion on O Street, Washington DC

On Valentine’s Day 1980, H.H. Leonards-Spero opened a whimsical hotel comprised of four Victorian brownstones, filled with secret passages, hidden doors and an Escher-like staircase. Staying in one of the themed suites of this labyrinthine mansion is an immersive experience, where rooms are piled high with artefacts, fine art and memorabilia, making it feel more like a museum. Even more enticingly, almost all of the collectible items displayed are for sale. There’s the Lennon, Graceland, Speakeasy and Safari suites, the Presidential suite with its teak, whirlpool bath, or the Rosa Parks suite, in which the famous civil rights activist actually stayed while in DC. The hotel also hosts concerts, special private events and its popular Treasure Hunts.

The Chanler at Cliff Walk, Rhode Island

For a glimpse into the life of a railroad tycoon during the Gilded Age, come to The Chanler at Cliff Walk. With just 20 villas and suites, the hotel possesses an air of exclusivity, aided by the fact that famous guests have included President Teddy Roosevelt (though admittedly back when it was a private property). Sip a leisurely cup of coffee on the lawn before making use of the mansion’s direct access to Newport’s cherished Cliff Walk, tracing the rocky shoreline of the North Atlantic. In the evening, attend one of the Chanler’s signature events – a scotch and cigars dinner – before retiring to your French Renaissance-esque boudoir.

Congress Hall, New Jersey

Built in 1836, this L-shaped, pastel-yellow mansion overlooks the Atlantic Ocean in the town of Cape May. Staying here feels like you’ve been transported back to the 19th century while still being able to enjoy every possible modern luxury. The downstairs Boiler Room bar – with its exposed brick and neon lighting – was a Speakeasy during the Prohibition era and at the far end, you can still see the two large doors that were used to smuggle alcohol in from the beach.

Covered Bridge House, New Hampshire

With a white, wood-panelled facade and red shutters, the Covered Bridge House B&B is a classic example of New Hampshire charm. Step across the Georgian Colonial porch and discover a beautifully preserved interior of quilts, antique wardrobes, wrought iron beds and candles adorning the windowsills. Some rooms look out over the Saco River, while the rest provide views of the Bartlett Covered Bridge (from which the B&B gets its name). The bridge is a historic feat of engineering (that was built in 1850) and a rare commodity, being one of only 53 covered bridges left in New Hampshire. In 1966, it was turned into a gift shop to fund its preservation for future generations to appreciate. History aside, this B&B puts on an outstanding, indulgent breakfast spread including French toast, freshly-baked muffins, bacon & eggs, waffles and strawberries and cream.

Bama Bed & Breakfast, Alabama

For a taste of genuine Southern hospitality in a historic setting, Bama Bed & Breakfast is exemplary. The fifth president of the USA, James Monroe, signed the original patent-deed on this regal, antebellum mansion, which was built in 1823. Breakfast is served in a formal dining room under a glinting chandelier, yet the atmosphere is wonderfully laid-back and homely. The B&B is run by a friendly family that prepares a breakfast banquet of homemade Alabama recipes each morning including French toast soufflé and casserole.

Berry Hill Resort, Virginia

With its colonnaded facade, 660 acres of manicured grounds and 92 guest suites, Berry Hill Resort is a place of truly grand proportions. Built in 1839, this former plantation estate is now a National Historic Landmark. It has a spectacular entrance along a tree-lined boulevard while inside, you’ll find a stately staircase, hardwood floors, high ceilings and precious antiques alongside modern luxuries like a spa, fitness centre and gourmet restaurants. Take one of the tours on offer to learn more of the estate’s long history.

Delta Bohemian Guest House, Mississippi

A boxy, red-painted wooden house with a tyre swing dangling in the front yard, the Delta Bohemian Guest House is so welcoming that you’ll immediately feel like you’re staying with friends. Artistic owners Madge and Billy have created a soulful, bohemian atmosphere in this historic house, built by a local Mississippi Delta planter in 1917. The property shares a backyard with the Clarksdale White House, where the owners live and where they have several other rooms that are also available to book. This main house is a picture-perfect Southern home, painted regal white and with an immaculate white lawn framed by giant magnolia trees.

Mushroom Houses, Michigan

The Mushroom Houses is a collection of four curious-looking cottages built by renowned architect, Earl Young, in the city of Charlevoix, Michigan. There’s the Cottage, the Chalet, the Applecore Cottage and – the star of the show – the mushroom-shaped Thatch House. All built with limestone and odd-shaped boulders in curved lines, the structures are fully unique and topped with thatch that was hand-reaped in Europe. Amid acres of land dotted with 100-year-old apple trees, forests and the beaches of Lake Michigan, a stay here is a rare kind of retreat.