The Hotel Ponce de Leon in St Augustine, Florida, was another of the Gilded Age's most sought-after hotels. Constructed between 1885 and 1887, this one was the brainchild of renowned oil and railroad magnate Henry M Flagler, who intended it to be a winter resort.

Pictured here in the early 20th century, it was a lesson in luxury, with grand communal spaces including this cavernous dining room, with its frescoed ceilings and columns.

Liked this? Click the Like button above. And click the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

Now discover fascinating photographs of America during the Roaring Twenties

Stunning vintage photos of America during the Gilded Age