While traveling, big brand hotels are always a sure way of knowing you're getting a dependable, well-run hotel experience, but sometimes we want something a bit more historical and independently owned.

Hilton's Tapestry Collection provides the best of both worlds. Each lodging in the collection provides historic, regional architecture off the beaten path, usually located in an area of historical significance.

Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center, located just outside Richmond, Virginia, is a great example of Southern charm and Colonial design. With its white columns and 20 acres of lush green space, it's hard to believe you are pulling up to a big brand hotel, with all the Hilton benefits included.

Fifteen minutes from Richmond, the capital of Virginia, this property is close to attractions such as the Mid-Lothian Mines Park, the Chesterfield County Museum and Old Jail and for the history buffs, Richmond National Battlefield Park.

Hotel Ballast Wilmington, on the historic waterfront of downtown Wilmington, North Carolina, celebrates the city's maritime past. Within walking distance of the Downtown Historic District, cobblestone streets lead you to boutiques and restaurants, and a water taxi, rickshaw or free trolley to take in the sights.

Moored on the Cape Fear River, the Battleship North Carolina offers tours reminding us of its history in the Pacific Theatre during World War II. The Cotton Exchange is home to an entire block of shopping and dining opportunities. This building has its own rich history and is said to be haunted, with tours that are full of creepy, ghostly tales.

If the mountains are calling, check out the Black Fox Lodge Pigeon Forge in Tennessee. Families will enjoy log cabin surroundings located close to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Besides the natural beauty of the mountains, the kids will be entertained by the famous Dollywood, while adults can take in the historical venues.

The Rockefeller Monument was dedicated in 1940 by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, acknowledging the Rockefeller family for their generous $5Million donation to the creation of the Great Smokies park.

History buffs might also visit the Civilian Conservation Corps camp where, from 1933 to 1942, 200 members of Company 411 helped construct Newfound Gap Road, the trails and footbridges as well as the water system that still service the area today.

Lexington, Kentucky's Civil War history includes the childhood home of Mary Todd Lincoln, along with historic landmarks related to horseracing in the region. Stay at The Sire Hotel Lexington, another Tapestry Collection by Hilton, which used to house a doctor's office in 1916.

The Colonial-Revival architecture and central location offer a look at the area's equestrian industry and old-fashioned southern hospitality. Located in the Gratz Park Historic District, this property is a great place from which to take a leisurely walk among stately mansions full of their own history and elegant architecture.

If you are interested in a more adventurous and rustic location, the Tailwater Lodge Altmar in upstate New York is perfect for outdoor hiking, fishing and hunting activities along the Salmon River. Couple the out-of-doors activities with beer and wine tasting and cooking classes, everyone's happy.

The food offerings are gourmet and the accommodations cozy, whatever the season. The area, which was once named Fishville, is rich with angling history, found at the nearby Pulaski Historical Society museum.

Looking for a boutique hotel in a big city experience? The Bernic Hotel New York City fills that requirement with moderate rates in a city with skyrocketing hotel costs. Its location, in Midtown East, a neighborhood providing easy access to all forms of transportation, as well as walking distance to the Theater District and Times Square.

The Chrysler Building is a short stroll away. As with the other properties in The Tapestry Collection, you might forget you are staying in a national brand but will appreciate the perks and amenities of a Hilton.

For a luxurious boutique experience, The Graham Washington DC Georgetown hotel is located in one of the most historic areas of DC. A rooftop bar offers stunning views of the city as well as the Potomac River with a fresh raw-bar.

Walk Georgetown's cobblestone streets among buildings that were there before the city of Washington, DC, was even established. The architecture is Federalist but the 57 rooms are modern and sophisticated. You'll feel like a local in this location with the heart of DC just a Metro ride away, offering museums, historical sites, the Capitol Building and White House.

Heading back south, The Troubadour Hotel New Orleans touts itself as a "Boutique Hotel with Big Easy Attitude." Blocks from the theater district and French Quarter, this locale is perfect for exploring the Crescent City.

This contemporary boutique Hilton property provides New Orleans charm coupled with modern amenities. Another rooftop restaurant delivers creative cuisine as well as skyline views.

Hilton is adding to their Tapestry Collection with properties in Florida's beach city of Melbourne, Chicago and, internationally, Lima, Peru.

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