14 Hotels That Have Hosted Monumental Historical Meetings

Holding key meetings in luxurious hotels isn't a new trend; some of the world's most prestigious properties have served as settings for some of the most significant events in history. From negotiating peace treaties and forging diplomatic agreements to hosting heads of state and world-famous performers, these hotels hold a special place in history.

Beau-Rivage Palace (Lausanne, Switzerland)

Think of the Beau-Rivage Palace as a true diplomatic hub. Nestled by Lake Geneva in Lausanne, Switzerland, this opulent hotel has been a meeting point for major peace negotiations since its opening in 1861. Key moments include the signing of the Treaty of Lausanne (finalizing World War I) and the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which the U.S. later pulled out of in 2018.

For those who value luxurious linens over historic discussions, the Beau-Rivage Palace offers the perfect retreat. Known for its stunning gardens ideal for outdoor dining, exceptional service, and elegantly designed rooms and suites, this hotel promises a memorable stay. Go for one of the suites with a breathtaking view of the lake or the Alps for a truly indulgent experience.

The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel (San Antonio, Texas)

A legendary meeting that forever changed the landscape of U.S. aviation took place at San Antonio's St. Anthony Hotel. It was here at the St. Anthony Club that Southwest Airlines cofounders Rollin King and Herb Kelleher, after a couple of drinks, sketched out the vision for their airline on a cocktail napkin. What followed is now aviation history.

This downtown San Antonio landmark, where Old Hollywood glamour meets classic Texas charm, has hosted notable guests like John Wayne, Grace Kelly, and President George H.W. Bush. Beyond earning Marriott Bonvoy points, guests can enjoy a wealth of experiences, from French antiques and fine art in the public areas to stylish, comfortable rooms with views of Travis Park. Be sure to sip cocktails at the speakeasy-inspired St. Anthony Club and enjoy the rooftop pool while plotting your own big idea on a napkin.

Willard InterContinental (Washington, DC)

Nathaniel Hawthorne, best known for "The Scarlet Letter," also famously described Washington D.C.'s Willard Hotel (now the Willard InterContinental) as the true heart of the city. In his words, "Willard's Hotel could more justly be called the center of Washington and the Union than either the Capitol, the White House, or the State Department." He humorously added that the hotel was filled with a mix of politicians, artists, poets, diplomats, and assorted characters — so much so that your identity would be lost in the crowd. A well-known joke of the 1800s was that if a gentleman threw his stick at a dog, he'd miss the dog but hit six generals instead.

So, what momentous events occurred at the Willard? In 1861, the hotel hosted the Peace Congress, an attempt to prevent the Civil War, though it ultimately failed. The Willard continued its role as a site for historic discussions, including President Woodrow Wilson's 1916 meetings that helped lay the groundwork for the League of Nations, the precursor to the United Nations. In 1963, Martin Luther King Jr. wrote his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech here. And every November, the hotel plays host to the annual tradition of the presidential turkey pardoning.

When you check into the Willard InterContinental, you'll find yourself immersed in its grand Federal and Empire-style architecture, with top-tier service and a prime location. It's so close to the White House that if you were any closer, you'd practically be living there.

Omni Bedford Springs Resort (Bedford, Pennsylvania)

Visit Pennsylvania's Omni Bedford Springs Resort, a luxurious escape that once served as the "Summer White House" for President James Buchanan. Although Omni took over in 2009, the resort has a rich history of hosting Presidents James K. Polk, Zachary Taylor, and William Henry Harrison. The area's waters were believed to possess "healing powers," drawing visitors throughout the 1800s. In 1858, it was here that President Buchanan received the first transatlantic cable from England.

Today, guests at the resort enjoy beautifully appointed rooms and suites, many featuring private balconies or porches. The property boasts six bars and restaurants, along with a dedicated spa wing offering health and wellness experiences. To honor the area's famous "healing" waters, the spa provides the "Bedford Bath," utilizing products inspired by local herbs and botanicals for a truly rejuvenating experience.

St. Louis Union Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton (St. Louis)

The St. Louis Union Station Hotel, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, was once the largest and busiest train station in the world. Today, it stands as a luxurious lifestyle hotel in the heart of St. Louis. This historic venue is also known for one of the most memorable moments in political history: President Harry Truman famously held up a copy of the Chicago Daily Tribune here, displaying the premature headline "Dewey Defeats Truman" after unexpectedly winning the 1948 presidential election.

Guests will find stunning historic archways and designs that date back to the original 1894 train station, particularly in the Great Hall lounge, where cocktails are served beneath an impressive soaring ceiling. For an elevated experience, consider booking a Clock Tower suite, featuring exquisite design and luxurious Waldorf Astoria bedding for a restful night's sleep steeped in transit history.

Fairmont San Francisco (San Francisco)

The Fairmont San Francisco is a grand escape located in the upscale Nob Hill area of the city. This luxurious property has a rich history, much like the distinguished guests who have walked through its elegant lobby. Built by the daughters of the late U.S. Senator James Graham Fair and named in his honor, the hotel was nearly finished when the devastating San Francisco earthquake struck in 1906. It opened its doors a year later and went on to host the pivotal 1945 meetings that led to the founding of the United Nations.

Today, the Fairmont attracts both locals and international visitors eager to experience the charm of this San Francisco landmark, which boasts stunning views of the city and the bay. The expansive Diplomat Tony Bennett Suite offers a lavish experience where you can admire the skyline while perhaps enjoying a rendition of "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," the song Bennett first performed in the hotel's Venetian Room back in 1961. While the hotel's Tonga Room & Hurricane Bar tiki bar may seem a bit mismatched with the ornate lobby decor, isn't variety what makes life exciting?

The Hermitage Hotel (Nashville)

The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville holds a prestigious place as the long-standing leader of the city’s luxury hotel scene. Its team proudly shares that the phrase "Meet me at The Hermitage" has been the go-to invitation for unforgettable social events in Music City for over a century. However, this hotel is more than just a glamorous beaux-arts lobby and fine dining; it served as a meeting point for both pro- and anti-suffrage advocates leading up to the ratification of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. As Tennessee was the final state with the power to ratify or reject the amendment, the ultimate vote favored granting women the right to vote — placing both Tennessee and The Hermitage Hotel on the right side of history.

Now is the perfect time to experience The Hermitage Hotel, which has recently completed a comprehensive renovation. The spacious, contemporary rooms still feature historic elements like marble bathrooms and original crown molding, alongside exceptional service and meticulous attention to detail — including personalized stationery. Additionally, the hotel is home to celebrity chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten's exclusive Tennessee restaurants: Drusie & Darr and The Pink Hermit.

The Watergate Hotel (Washington, DC)

The Watergate Hotel in Washington, D.C., is part of the larger Watergate complex, which includes offices, residences, and the hotel itself. Although infamous for its scandalous past, the hotel originally became a hotspot where Washington's elite and Hollywood celebrities mingled when it opened in 1967. Notably, Lauren Bacall famously complained about the plastic hangers, insisting on wooden ones, and a concierge fetched some from her own home, only for Bacall to later take them with her upon checkout. Meanwhile, Elizabeth Taylor declined to move into her sixth husband's apartment there due to the hotel's pet policies.

The Watergate scandal originated from the 1972 break-in at the Democratic National Committee's headquarters located in the complex. This incident's connections to President Richard Nixon eventually led to his impeachment and resignation, which is why nearly every American scandal since has had the '-gate' suffix attached to it.

The Watergate Hotel today is a stylish, modern luxury property featuring an indoor saltwater pool and an expansive spa. Enjoy a cocktail while soaking in 1960s ambiance at the Top of the Gate rooftop lounge, or opt for a stay in the Scandal Suite (Room 214), which served as a command center during the infamous break-in. Rest assured, the only scandalous thing about this room now is the likelihood of sleeping in late, thanks to the indulgent luxury linens.

Four Seasons Hotel Austin (Austin)

The Four Seasons Hotel Austin is a top-tier luxury escape located along the shores of Lady Bird Lake. Flash back to 1991, when it became a gathering spot for some of the world’s most influential women. Queen Elizabeth II stayed here during a U.S. visit, mingling with then-Texas Governor Ann Richards and former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson. The queen seemed easygoing, requesting just a ham sandwich with the crusts cut off, according to the Austin American-Statesman.

Today, guests at the Four Seasons Hotel Austin enjoy a perfect blend of upscale accommodations and outdoor fun. The hotel’s backyard offers various activities, and you can even have a picnic on the lawn with views of the lake. Inside, unwind in a guest room or suite (opt for one with a balcony and a lake view) and take advantage of the afternoon margarita cart service, a modern luxury that certainly wasn’t available during Queen Elizabeth's visit but feels fitting for today’s Texas royalty.

Omni Mount Washington Resort (Bretton Woods, New Hampshire)

As one of the few remaining historic grand hotels in New Hampshire's White Mountains, the Omni Mount Washington Resort first opened its doors in 1902 after two years of construction, which involved the expertise of 250 Italian artisans who meticulously crafted the stucco and granite masonry. Beyond catering to leisure travelers seeking winter sports or summer adventures in northern New England, this resort is notable for hosting the Bretton Woods conference, which led to the creation of both the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.

Today, the Omni Mount Washington Resort excels at welcoming guests with its spacious front porch that offers stunning views of the White Mountains, making it a prime spot for leaf peeping during the fall foliage season. Whether you're looking for a round of golf, a rejuvenating spa retreat, or a luxurious space to relax after a day on the slopes, this resort is definitely worth a visit.

Capella Singapore (Singapore)

Capella Hotels and Resorts ranks among the most opulent hotel brands worldwide, and its Singapore property was the setting for a significant historic meeting: the 2018 United States-North Korea Summit. This marked the first meeting between the heads of state from the two nations, featuring then-U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. On a lighter note, Taylor Swift was also reported to have stayed in a $14,000-per-night villa at the hotel earlier this year during her six-show engagement in Singapore for "The Eras Tour."

Designed by Norman Foster, this luxurious 112-room hotel offers more than just a haven for dignitaries and pop stars. It features beautifully landscaped gardens, spacious rooms equipped with rainfall showers and soaking tubs, as well as multiple pools for refreshing dips when you're not lounging on the nearby sandy shores of Palawan Beach.

Gleneagles (Auchterarder, Scotland)

When it comes to country retreats, Gleneagles in Scotland stands out. Designed as a luxurious country house complete with a golf course, this property attracts a diverse crowd of golfers, wellness seekers, and the elite looking to indulge in fine dining and relaxation. Gleneagles notably hosted the G8 Summit in 2005, where the late Queen Elizabeth II held a state dinner. Additionally, in 2014, it became only the second venue in Scotland to host the prestigious Ryder Cup, following Muirfield's hosting in 1978.

At Gleneagles, guest rooms and suites offer the ambiance of a personal countryside escape, complete with dedicated and attentive service. Be sure to treat yourself to a day at the Spa at Gleneagles, which boasts a comprehensive menu of treatments and packages that include lunch at the Wellness Cafe. You'll leave feeling rejuvenated after your stay.

Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac (Quebec City)

Dominating the skyline of Quebec City's Old Quebec neighborhood, Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac is more than just a stunning example of Chateauesque architecture. Originally built as one of Canada's grand railway hotels along the Canadian Pacific Railway, it served as a meeting place for leaders of the World War II Allied powers, including U.S. President Franklin Roosevelt, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, and Canadian Prime Minister William Lyon Mackenzie King, during the First and Second Quebec Conferences to strategize for the war.

The Fairmont, celebrated as the world's most photographed hotel, captivates guests with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and stylish, updated accommodations, thanks to a comprehensive renovation completed in 2014.

Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC (Washington, DC)

When it comes to hosting world leaders, the Four Seasons Hotel Washington, DC knows how to deliver. This opulent Georgetown hotel became a temporary palace for Saudi King Salman in 2015, who reserved the entire property while meeting with then-U.S. President Barack Obama to discuss the Iran nuclear deal. Reports indicated that the hotel underwent lavish redecorating to suit the king's tastes, featuring gold furniture and red carpets laid out in the lower parking area to keep the royals from stepping on asphalt.

However, even the typical guest at the Four Seasons enjoys a touch of royalty, with elegant guest rooms stocked with Ferragamo products and certain luxurious suites offering their own private terraces. Be sure to indulge in a delicious meal at celebrity chef Michael Mina's Bourbon Steak to relax after a day of exploring the U.S. capital.