Some hotels just have that magic touch when it comes to attracting the rich and famous. Whether it’s the promise of privacy, the allure of luxury, or simply being in the right place at the right time, these establishments have hosted everyone from Hollywood legends to world leaders.
Their guest books read like a who’s who of the past century, with stories that range from romantic to scandalous to downright eccentric. Here is a list of hotels that have become legendary for their celebrity guests.
Dubbed the ‘Pink Palace,’ this iconic spot has been a celebrity magnet since 1912, with its salmon-colored facade almost as famous as the stars who’ve stayed within. Marilyn Monroe adored it so much that she had a favorite bungalow, Number 7, although it’s said she spent most of her time in Number 1.
Howard Hughes took his love for the hotel to the next level by occupying up to nine bungalows simultaneously during his 30-year on-and-off residence. He reportedly had staff hide pineapple upside-down cakes for him to find during 2 a.m. treasure hunts.
“The Beverly Hills Hotel isn’t just a place to stay – it’s a place where Hollywood history comes alive,” says a local celebrity tour guide.
Since 1929, this West Hollywood Hills hotel has been the backdrop for countless celebrity stories, some legendary and others tragic. With offerings ranging from traditional rooms to private bungalows, it's perfect for stars who want to stay out of the spotlight.
Names like Robert Pattinson, Bradley Cooper, and Zoe Saldana have all been spotted here. It's a favorite spot for film premiere after-parties – the real celebration begins once the cameras stop flashing.
This 12-story Spanish-style building opened its doors in 1927, quickly becoming part of Hollywood royalty. Supposedly haunted by the ghost of Marilyn Monroe, who once lived there, guests have claimed to see her spirit wandering the halls.
More recently, Justin Timberlake, Beyoncé, and Jay-Z have graced its corridors, with the Tropicana Bar, lobby, or pool being prime spots to catch a glimpse of Hollywood’s finest.
You might recognize this hotel from the film Pretty Woman, where Julia Roberts’ character enjoyed the royal treatment. Since 1928, the property has been housing Hollywood A-listers like Elvis Presley and Warren Beatty.
Located right on Rodeo Drive, guests can roll out of bed and into some of the world’s most exclusive shopping. A recent multimillion-dollar renovation has made it even more opulent than before.
Opening on Park Avenue in 1931, it became the world’s largest and tallest hotel. Cole Porter lived in The Towers for decades, composing iconic songs on a Steinway piano nicknamed ‘High Society’ that the hotel gifted him.
Frank and Barbara Sinatra later moved into Porter’s former suite, paying $1 million a year, and loved it so much they etched their initials into the shower doors. Nearly every U.S. president since Herbert Hoover has stayed there, with some even living in The Towers post-presidency.
Located at Fifth Avenue and Central Park South, this hotel was dubbed ‘Home-for-the-Incurably Opulent’ shortly after its 1907 opening. The Beatles caused pandemonium here during their first U.S. tour in 1964.
Truman Capote's legendary Black and White Gala brought out big names like Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow. Back in the day, the grandest suites were on the lower floors because elevators were newfangled and people didn't trust them yet.
These historic hotels prove that celebrity appeal isn’t just about modern amenities or Instagram-worthy lobbies. Many have been welcoming famous guests for over a century, yet they continue to attract today’s biggest stars alongside tourists eager to walk the same halls as legends.
The stories accumulated in their guest books and suites represent a fascinating cross-section of cultural history, from silent film stars to rock legends to world leaders. While some celebrities now seek privacy where their predecessors craved publicity, these hotels have adapted while maintaining the magic that made them special in the first place.