Boston, D.C., New York City hotels: Iconic places to stay in the East

When you travel, the hotel you stay at shouldn't just be where you lay your head at night; it should provide an iconic atmosphere that adds distinction to a trip. Many classic hotels have played important roles in the history and glamour of America. If you are heading out East, here are some of the hotels to stay at if you are seeking a true iconic gem.

New York City icon: The Plaza
Fifth Avenue at Central Park South, New York, NY 10019

When you visit the Big Apple, you'll have many New York City hotels to choose from, but perhaps none more iconic than The Plaza, a timeless New York landmark that has hosted countless celebrities and dignitaries since it opened its doors in 1907. With an extravagant entrance featuring classic stained glass, The Plaza offers premium opulence and has the largest square footage of any luxury hotel in New York City. A recent $450 million renovation offers even more extravagance, with surprises at every turn. If you're looking to splurge, spend the night in one of the 102 available suites, the perfect place to relax after a day of shopping Fifth Avenue and strolling Central Park.

Washington D.C. icon: Willard InterContinental
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20004

Of all the hotels in DC, for more than 150 years, the Willard InterContinental has been the place to be for elegant dinners, political lunches, special meetings and gala social events. This iconic hotel has been selected for membership in the Historic Hotels of America network, a nod to the important role it's had in our nation's history. While a guest at this grand hotel, Martin Luther King finished his famous "I Have A Dream" speech and Mark Twain penned two books here in the early 1900s. If you want to stay where countless presidents have worked, relaxed and found inspiration, the Willard InterContinental is it.

Boston icon: Omni Parker House
60 School Street, Boston, MA 02108

If you want the perfect blend of historic charm and modern conveniences not easily found at hotels in Boston, stay at the Omni Parker House. The timeless architecture of this hotel has been a landmark since 1855. Located on the Freedom Trail, you can walk to many historic areas and attractions including Beacon Hill and the Quincy Market. A favorite of John F. Kennedy throughout his life, it was at the Omni Parker House that he made his first public speech at age seven; he announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate; and he proposed to Jacqueline Bouvier. To book a great room at this iconic Boston hotel, search the Internet and try sites like Travelocity.com.