Vacation Like a Movie Star: 21 Famous Hotels from Films and TV


Photo by rudi1976

Ever dreamed of living the high life, surrounded by the glam and glitz of Hollywood, even if just for a night? This dream can become a reality by staying in one of the many famous hotels and resorts featured in films and TV shows. From the opulent, high-stakes backdrop of James Bond’s escapades to the quaint charm of a rom-com inn, these locations offer more than just a touch of movie magic. Here’s where you can book a stay to feel like a star, walking the same halls and rooms once graced by the big screen’s finest.

1. The Plaza Hotel (New York City’s most glamorous tea party)

Looking west at Sherman's victory monument and Plaza Hotel on a sunny morning.
Photo by Jim.henderson on Wikimedia

Iconic for its role in “Home Alone 2,” The Plaza Hotel offers more than just a glimpse into Kevin McCallister’s luxurious New York adventure. Situated at the heart of Manhattan, this hotel has been the setting for countless films, offering guests the chance to live out their silver screen fantasies. It’s not just the opulent suites and grandiose lobbies that attract visitors; The Plaza’s afternoon tea service is a must-do, offering a taste of the high life. Whether it’s exploring the same halls as cinema’s most mischievous youngster or enjoying the quintessential New York luxury experience, The Plaza is a star in its own right. Ambling through its lavish corridors, one can’t help but feel a part of movie history.

2. Timberline Lodge (A snowy retreat with a sinister twist)

West Wing of Timberline Lodge, Mid-March
Photo by Tim-desser on Wikimedia

Perched atop Oregon’s snowy Mount Hood, Timberline Lodge gained infamy as the exterior of the Overlook Hotel in “The Shining.” While the interior scenes were filmed elsewhere, the lodge’s eerie, isolated ambiance attracts thrill-seekers and film buffs alike. Despite its spooky cinematic reputation, Timberline Lodge is a warm, welcoming destination for skiing, snowboarding, and mountain adventures. Its rustic charm and breathtaking views make it a perfect getaway, sans the sinister undertones. Just don’t expect to bump into Jack Nicholson’s ghostly doppelganger in the hallways.

3. Hotel del Coronado (A beachfront fairytale setting)

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San Diego’s Hotel del Coronado shone brightly in the classic comedy “Some Like It Hot,” starring Marilyn Monroe. Its picturesque Victorian architecture and stunning beachfront views have made it a sought-after location for Hollywood’s elite and tourists wanting a taste of the silver screen. Besides its movie star status, the hotel offers luxurious amenities, fine dining, and an array of seaside activities. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to relax in style, with the added bonus of potentially treading the same sand as Monroe. Staying here offers a blend of historical grandeur and beachside bliss, all under the warm California sun.

4. The Bellagio (Las Vegas’ scene-stealing luxury)

There is nothing like seeing them in person. The Fountains of Bellagio were destined to romance your senses. Take in a spectacular show of thoughtfully interwoven water, music and light designed to mesmerize its admirers. It is the most ambitious, choreographically complex water feature ever conceived and it’s absolutely free for any visitor to enjoy. Step back, or find a comfortable perch to sit, and watch the dynamic performance set against the backdrop of the Las Vegas lavender sky. Each performance is unique in expression and interpretation so no matter how many times you have seen the Fountains, they always have more in store to wow you with. Fall in love with this unprecedented aquatic accomplishment as you enjoy an enchanting concert of opera, classical, Broadway and pop tunes.
Photo by Bernard Spragg. NZ on Wikimedia

The Bellagio in Las Vegas is as famous for its stunning fountains as it is for its role in the heist film “Ocean’s Eleven.” Guests can not only witness the iconic water show but also indulge in the same opulent setting that Danny Ocean and his crew plotted their legendary casino heist. With an array of high-end restaurants, luxurious spas, and the thrill of the casino floor, The Bellagio offers a slice of the high-stakes excitement seen in the film. It’s an experience that goes beyond gambling, providing a taste of the lavish lifestyle depicted on screen. For movie fans and luxury seekers alike, The Bellagio is a Vegas must-see.

5. Fontainebleau Miami Beach (A splash of retro glamour)

The main lobby of the Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Florida, USA
Photo by Acroterion on Wikimedia

Fontainebleau Miami Beach is a beacon of luxury and style, made famous by James Bond in “Goldfinger” and the Rat Pack in the original “Ocean’s 11.” This iconic hotel epitomizes Miami’s golden era glamour, offering guests a chance to bask in its storied history while enjoying modern luxury. With its renowned nightlife, world-class dining, and oceanfront views, Fontainebleau provides an unmatched experience. It’s a place where guests can lounge by the poolside, cocktail in hand, feeling every bit the movie star. Whether you’re a Bond aficionado or just in search of some sun-soaked luxury, Fontainebleau is the place to be.

6. The Millennium Biltmore (A historic Hollywood haven)

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The Millennium Biltmore in Los Angeles has played host to a myriad of films and TV shows, including “Ghostbusters” and “Mad Men.” Its stunning architecture and grand interiors have made it a favorite among filmmakers and tourists alike. Nestled in the heart of downtown LA, this historic hotel offers a taste of old Hollywood glamour, with luxurious accommodations and top-notch service. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to explore the city’s rich cinematic history or simply enjoy a stay in a landmark building. The Millennium Biltmore is more than just a hotel; it’s a piece of Hollywood history.

7. The St. Regis Princeville Resort (A Hawaiian paradise on screen)

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Known for its breathtaking settings in films like “The Descendants,” The St. Regis Princeville Resort offers a luxurious escape on Hawaii’s Kauai island. This resort is a haven for those seeking the ultimate relaxation, with stunning ocean views, world-class golf courses, and spa services. Its appearance in Hollywood films has only added to its allure, attracting guests eager to experience the serene beauty seen on screen. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, exploring the lush landscapes, or enjoying the local cuisine, The St. Regis Princeville promises a slice of paradise. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and luxury, making it a must-visit for film fans and vacationers alike.

8. Park Hyatt Tokyo (An urban escape with cinematic fame)

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Park Hyatt Tokyo, famously featured in “Lost in Translation,” offers an unparalleled urban retreat. Situated in the bustling heart of Tokyo, this hotel provides stunning city views, exquisite dining options, and a serene spa experience. It’s not just the luxurious amenities that attract visitors but also the chance to relive moments from the beloved film. Guests can sip cocktails at the New York Bar, just like the movie’s characters, against a backdrop of the Tokyo skyline. Park Hyatt Tokyo is where modern luxury meets cinematic history, offering a unique and unforgettable stay.

9. The Beverly Hills Hotel (The pink palace of Hollywood legends)

The Beverly Hills Hotel, 1989
Photo by Alan Light on Wikimedia

The Beverly Hills Hotel, with its iconic pink façade, has been a favorite among Hollywood royalty for decades, featured in countless films and TV shows. This legendary hotel offers a glimpse into the glamorous life of movie stars, with luxurious bungalows and a pool that’s seen more than its fair share of celebrity dips. Dining at the Polo Lounge is a must, where one might just spot a celebrity or two. The hotel’s lush gardens and opulent decor offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. For those looking to indulge in the ultimate Hollywood experience, The Beverly Hills Hotel is the epitome of luxury and history.

10. The Fairmont San Francisco (A ghostly affair with history)

The Fairmont Hotel in the city of San Francisco.
Photo by Supercarwaar on Wikimedia

The Fairmont San Francisco has enchanted guests and moviegoers alike, serving as a backdrop for the classic film “Vertigo.” Nestled atop Nob Hill, this grand hotel boasts stunning city and bay views, luxurious rooms, and a rich history. It’s not just its cinematic connection that makes The Fairmont a must-visit; the hotel is also rumored to house a few friendly ghosts, adding a layer of intrigue to every stay. Whether it’s exploring the lavish lobby, dining in elegance, or simply soaking in the panoramic views, The Fairmont offers a uniquely San Francisco experience. It’s a place where luxury meets legend, making for an unforgettable stay.

11. Caesars Palace (Las Vegas’ cinematic empire)

The southern facade of Palace Tower in the Caesars Palace hotel in Paradise, Nevada in the Las Vegas metropolitan area.
Photo by GyozaDumpling on Wikimedia

Caesars Palace is not just a hotel; it’s a Las Vegas icon, featured prominently in films like “The Hangover.” This sprawling empire offers everything from sumptuous rooms to extravagant casinos, top-tier entertainment, and dining experiences. Guests can live out their own Vegas movie scenes, minus the tiger in the bathroom. With its opulent Roman-themed decor and world-renowned Colosseum, Caesars Palace is a testament to the city’s love for the grandiose. It’s the perfect setting for those seeking the thrill of Vegas with a touch of cinematic history.

12. The Waldorf Astoria New York (A timeless New York classic)

Park Avenue (west) elevation of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, New York City.
Photo by User:JGHowes on Wikimedia

The Waldorf Astoria New York has long been synonymous with elegance and sophistication, featured in countless films like “The Royal Tenenbaums.” This landmark hotel boasts a rich history, luxurious accommodations, and impeccable service. Guests can enjoy the famed Waldorf salad in its birthplace, amidst the opulent surroundings. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city, offering a slice of New York luxury that has captivated moviegoers and travelers alike. The Waldorf Astoria is more than just a hotel; it’s a piece of cinematic and city history.

13. The InterContinental Hong Kong (A harbor view with star quality)

InterContinental Hong Kong
Photo by T1NH0 on Wikimedia

The InterContinental Hong Kong, prominently featured in “The Dark Knight,” offers stunning views of Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline. This luxury hotel is known for its exceptional service, spacious rooms, and world-class dining, including a Michelin-starred restaurant. It’s a favorite among those looking to experience the vibrant energy of Hong Kong while indulging in high-end comfort. Whether it’s soaking in the infinity pool or dining with a view, guests can enjoy a taste of the lavish lifestyle seen on screen. The InterContinental Hong Kong blends modern luxury with cinematic allure, making it a must-stay for film fans and travelers alike.

14. The Ritz London (The epitome of British elegance)

The Ritz Hotel 
Photo by Stuart Taylor on Wikimedia

The Ritz London, with its grand Edwardian architecture, has been the setting for numerous films and is the epitome of British luxury. Walking through its opulent halls, guests can almost hear the echoes of the characters from “Notting Hill” and other beloved movies. The hotel offers an exquisite afternoon tea service, which is a quintessential London experience. Its prime location allows for easy exploration of the city’s major attractions, making it a perfect stay for those seeking both luxury and adventure. The Ritz is not just a hotel; it’s a landmark that offers a timeless escape into a world of elegance.

15. Le Bristol Paris (A French fairytale come to life)

Hôtel le Bristol à Paris (Île-de-France, France).
Photo by Gzen92 on Wikimedia

Le Bristol Paris, featured in “Midnight in Paris,” is where guests can step into a world of French elegance and charm. This historic hotel boasts exquisite rooms, a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant, and a picturesque garden that feels like a secret escape within the city. It offers an unparalleled level of service and luxury, making every stay memorable. The hotel’s location on the prestigious Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré means guests are just steps away from some of Paris’s best shopping and cultural sites. Le Bristol is not just a place to stay; it’s a chance to live out a Parisian fairytale.

16. The Drake Hotel Chicago (A landmark of luxury and mystery)

Built in 1920, this Italian Renaissance Revival-style building was designed by Benjamin Marshall and Charles Eli Fox to serve as the Drake Hotel, and was built for hotel magnates Tracy Drake and John Drake, Jr. to serve as a hotel adjacent to the fashionable residential area in the Gold Coast to the north and along the developing commercial corridor of the Magnificent Mile along Michigan Avenue to the south. The building notably housed the original broadcast studio of WGN in 1924, as well as being the home of William Drake, and his wife, Elizabeth Drake, from the hotel’s opening until they lost the building due to the Great Depression. In the 1930s and 1940s, part of the hotel was an office for Frank “The Enforcer” Nitti, head of the Chicago Outfit, an organized crime syndicate. The hotel became home to the private Club International in the 1940s, which remains operational within the building. Many notable celebrities, political figures, and aristocrats have stayed at the hotel during its long history. The building is clad in stone with storefront openings at the base, a main entrance off of Walton Place on the south side of the building, featuring an ornate glass and metal canopy, and windows with decorative metal grilles on the north facade of the building, with arched double-height windows with decorative keystones, festoons, and balconies with iron railings above on the second floor except at a colonnade with larger window openings on the north side of the building, and decorative sconces at the corners of the building. Above the second floor, the building becomes H-shaped with light wells to the north and south, with simple trimmed windows up to the twelfth floor, where the trim becomes more ornate and features pediments, and the thirteenth floor, which features decorative reliefs between windows, with a cornice featuring modillions wrapping the top of the building’s parapet, which encloses a low-slope roof. A fourteenth floor penthouse in the middle of the building features oxeye openings and decorative carved reliefs styled after Italian Renaissance buildings. Inside, the building features intact historic common spaces with decorative wood paneling, wooden ceilings with beams and coffers, plaster and stone trim panels and reliefs, and decorative columns, with the most notable spaces being the lobby, Gold Coast Ballroom, and Palm Court. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. In 1996, the hotel was purchased by Hilton International, a hotel chain, and was renovated between 1998 and 2003, with additional work to add a fitness center and conference center being carried out between 2005 and 2006. Hilton International was acquired by Hilton Hotels Corporation in 2005, leading to the hotel becoming part of the Hilton Hotels chain. The building today remains one of Chicago’s premiere hotels, and maintains its historic character, while being full of modern amenities.
Photo by w_lemay on Wikimedia

The Drake Hotel Chicago, with its majestic facade, has appeared in films like “My Best Friend’s Wedding.” Beyond its cinematic appeal, The Drake is known for its luxurious accommodations, exceptional dining, and prime location on the Magnificent Mile. It’s rumored to be haunted, adding a touch of mystery to its historic charm. Guests can enjoy high tea in the Palm Court, a tradition that has delighted visitors for decades. The Drake Hotel offers a blend of luxury, history, and a little bit of mystery, making it a fascinating place to stay.

17. Chateau Marmont (Hollywood’s ultimate hideaway)

Exterior shot of the iconic Chateau Marmont West Hollywood in West Hollywood, California. Image taken by me for use on my real estate website and released under Creative Commons. Please feel free to use as you see fit. I request attribution in the form of a dofollow link to <a href="https://www.rubyhome.com/blog/living-in-west-hollywood/" rel="noreferrer nofollow">www.rubyhome.com/blog/living-in-west-hollywood/</a>
Photo by Tony Mariotti on Wikimedia

Chateau Marmont is where Hollywood’s elite have come to escape the spotlight, featured in films like “La La Land.” This legendary hotel offers an intimate and bohemian luxury, with bungalows and suites that provide a private retreat. Its storied past and celebrity lore add to the allure, making every stay feel exclusive. Nestled on Sunset Boulevard, it’s a perfect base for exploring Hollywood’s glamour. Chateau Marmont is not just a hotel; it’s a piece of Hollywood history, offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the stars.

18. The Savoy London (A stage for the stars)

The Savoy London has hosted countless celebrities and appeared in various films, making it one of the city’s most iconic hotels. Its Art Deco and Edwardian styles blend seamlessly, offering timeless elegance and unparalleled luxury. Located on the banks of the River Thames, The Savoy provides stunning views and easy access to London’s best attractions. The hotel’s famous afternoon tea in the Thames Foyer is an experience not to be missed. Staying at The Savoy is like stepping onto a set, where every guest is treated like a star.

19. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea (A tropical paradise with star-studded appeal)

Roystonea regia (Royal palm, Cuban palm) Habitat view Four Seasons Resort from Ohua boat at Wailea, Maui, Hawaii. December 23, 2009 #091223-1170 Image Use Policy
Photo by Forest and Kim Starr on Wikimedia

The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea, featured in “Just Go With It,” offers a luxurious escape in a tropical paradise. This five-star resort boasts stunning oceanfront views, world-class dining, and an array of activities, from golf to spa treatments. Guests can bask in the same sunny luxury enjoyed by the film’s characters, amidst lush landscapes and impeccable service. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure in a setting that’s both beautiful and exclusive. The Four Seasons Maui invites guests to live out their cinematic dreams in the lap of luxury.

20. Ashford Castle (A royal retreat in the heart of Ireland)

Ashford Castle in County Mayo, Ireland
Photo by Ericci8996 on Wikimedia

Ashford Castle, with its stunning appearance in “The Quiet Man,” is a historic gem nestled in the lush landscapes of Ireland. This 13th-century castle turned luxury hotel offers guests the chance to live like royalty, with opulent rooms, fine dining, and a wealth of activities set on a 350-acre estate. Whether it’s falconry, fishing, or simply exploring the ancient halls, Ashford Castle provides a truly unique experience. Its blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury makes it a must-visit for anyone wanting to indulge in the regal side of life. Ashford Castle is more than just a hotel; it’s an Irish legend brought to life.

This article was written by a human and edited with AI Assistance

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