For many travelers, visiting hotels may be a militaristic process – arrive, check in, shower, sleep and check out. The truth is though, hotels are one more part of the adventure to be soaked up. Accommodation, as often it’s a pinnacle of the culture’s hospitality norms and a unique living experience you’ll never have again. I thrive on combining my travel experiences with historical stays…with that said, I was giddy to be invited to stay at the city’s famous Hotel Elysée.

Founded in 1926, this European-style hotel was created for the carriage trade but bought out of bankruptcy nearly a decade later, where after the war it was redesigned so no two rooms are exactly alike – a feature that can be admired in every unique corner of this stunning hotel. Famous guests have included Marlon Brando (I’m swooning) and American playwright Tennessee Williams, who lived in (and kept guests awake at night with typewriter sounds) the hotel’s “Sunset Suite” up until his death. The hotel is also home to Manhattans famous Monkey Bar – a piano bar that has been a hotspot for music and emerging talent since the 1940s.

My room couldn’t have been more darling. I treasure the tasteful antique touches that are scattered throughout every perspective of the room – each being a stark reminder of the hotel’s long and valued legacy. Walking into my room was like walking into a thrilling chapter in American history – I’m absolutely an old soul, but the tangible spirit of the hotel is one I’m sure any traveler could appreciate.

My favorite part of my stay though, I admit, was the incredible balcony view overlooking Manhattan’s Midtown. Waking up to a New York morning is fuel for any soul, but with a view like this from Hotel Elysée – a legacy of American hospitality that stands on such a thick foundation of New York history and flair – it makes you feel like you are truly a part of it.

This post is sponsored by the Library Hotel Collection and Hotel Elysée