While this ad’s playfully offset photos may suggest otherwise, the Griswold Hotel, once located in New London, Connecticut, was one of the most luxurious and exclusive historic hotels of New England. A playground for U.S. Presidents and business tycoons, the hotel had a reputation for attracting wealthy, glamorous clientele seeking relaxation “on the Thames.”

FUN FACT: Predating the Griswold Hotel by 130 years was the Griswold Inn, established in 1776 and still operating today in Essex, Connecticut. (Source: Griswold Inn)