If you want to treat yourself and indulge in a luxury getaway, each region of the U.S. offers its own opulence from resorts and five-star hotels to Michelin-star restaurants and world-class spas. Whether you're seeking a coastal holiday along a pristine beach or a cultural journey in one of our historic cities, here are some of the best U.S. luxury travel destinations.
1. Boston, Massachusetts
With its elegant historic buildings throughout the city along with world-class luxury hotels, cultural offerings, and an excellent culinary scene, Boston is one of the most luxurious cities on the eastern seaboard. When you spend time in this historic city, there's certainly no shortage of things to do. For example, you can spend time at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum for its stunning architecture, verdant gardens, and collection of art that includes pieces by John Singer Sargent and Rembrandt. You may also want to take in a Boston Symphony Orchestra performance. As for hotel accommodations, you can’t experience more luxury in the city than at the Mandarin Oriental Boston. For one of the best meals of your life, do yourself a favor and make a reservation at Mamma Maria.
2. New York City
Like Boston, New York City offers plenty in the way of upscale accommodations and excellent restaurants as well as first-rate shopping, sightseeing, and more. While I love Boston, I lived in NYC for a while and couldn't get over how luxurious an experience in the city can potentially be. First of all, there are Broadway shows to see, and that is a cultural experience everyone must have, especially when visiting for the first time. There's also no shortage of excellent dining destinations like the Michelin Star-rated Eleven Madison Park, Per Se, and Jean-Georges. For luxe accommodations, try Lotte New York Palace, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, or the Ace Hotel Brooklyn.
3. Ocean House — Watch Hill, Rhode Island
I have been to the Ocean House two years in a row now and it may just be my favorite place in my home state of Rhode Island. I grew up in the northern part of RI and Watch Hill, where Ocean House is located, feels worlds away. Set along the Ocean State's gorgeous coastline, the location couldn't be better. As part of Relais & Châteaux, Ocean House has a certain level of excellence to uphold to its guests. First of all, the rooms are pristine, the beds are comfortable, and the bathrooms are like miniature spas. Then there are the amenities like a fitness center, an indoor pool, several restaurants, a bar, beach cabanas, wine tastings, cooking classes, and so much more. I can't wait to go back next year!
4. Seattle
Heading to the Pacific Northwest, Seattle is a unique city with a mix of staggering natural beauty, luxury hotels, wellness spas, high-end shopping, and its achievement in culinary excellence. For a cultural experience, we suggest a visit to Chihuly Garden and Glass or take in a performance by the Seattle Symphony or the Seattle Opera. As for five-star dining, visit Spinasse for Italian, Andaluca for Mediterranean, or Canlis for regional cuisine. For hotel accommodations that epitomize luxury, make a reservation at Fairmont Olympic Hotel, the Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, or the Pan Pacific Seattle.
5. Hotel Jackson — Jackson, Wyoming
There's so much to love about Hotel Jackson in Wyoming. In fact, critics love it too. This luxurious boutique hotel is recognized as a Forbes Four Star hotel, has Virtuoso membership, and Four Diamond status, and has even been named “The Most Beautiful Hotel in Wyoming” by Architectural Digest. While there are plenty of accolades for its design, luxury, and amenities, Hotel Jackson was also built with sustainability in mind. For example, 98% of its lights are energy-efficient LEDs, the carpets are made with natural fiber, and upcycled materials were used in its construction. With 55 rooms, this is a boutique hotel. While on the smaller side, the amenities are many and after you stay here once, you'll want to book your next Hotel Jackson stay as soon as possible!
6. Montage Kapalua Bay — Lahaina, Hawaii
When staying at a resort like Montage Kapalua Bay, you'll be in the proverbial lap of luxury. You certainly can't find much better than this five-star hotel! A hotel room isn't called a "room" but rather a "residence," so you should feel like you're at home, only better. When booking your accommodations, you have the choice of a garden view, a partial ocean view, or an ocean view for many of the residence options as well as 1-4 bedrooms. As for resort dining, there are three on-site restaurants or you may choose to order in or even have a private chef prepare a meal at your residence. A place like Montage Kapalua Bay also offers spa services in its world-class spa. While you can certainly find plenty of ways to relax, there's no better place than at the Sunset Pool with views of the ocean from your lounge chair.
7. Scottsdale
I may be a bit biased since I live here, but hear me out — Scottsdale is one of the top luxury destinations in the Southwest. Not only are there resorts, excellent dining options, high-end shopping, golf courses, and spas but gorgeous mountain views everywhere you look. For some of our best upscale dining options, there's Cafe Monarch, Ocean 44, Course Restaurant, and Mastro's City Hall. However, you can't go wrong with dining just about anywhere in town. As far as accommodations are concerned, among the most luxurious are The Phoenician, Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, and Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North. For those of you who love to shop, we have Fashion Square Mall with designer fashion stores as well as Kierland Commons and The Scottsdale Quarter. There is so much to experience here in Scottsdale! And if you really want to add to your luxury getaway to this beautiful city, you can rent a luxury vehicle like a Maserati, a Porsche, or a Range Rover.
8. Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa — Rancho Santa Fe, California
While California is a popular destination in itself, so is the upscale Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa in Rancho Santa Fe. Set on a beautifully secluded property of 45 acres, this award-winning resort is part of Relais & Chateaux so you know it's absolutely perfect for a lavish getaway. The resort has only 49 well-appointed rooms, tennis courts, a spa, and an on-site restaurant that features a menu of fresh and sustainable coastal cuisine.
9. The Little Nell — Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is just one of those American ski towns that exudes wealth and opulence so you know there are accommodations that mirror that vibe. One such hotel is The Little Nell which sits right at the base of the slopes of Aspen Mountain. In fact, it's the only five-star and five-diamond hotel in Aspen where you can ski in and ski out. Comfort is key here at The Little Nell and as a guest, you can enjoy some time at the on-site Dior Spa. Treat yourself to a massage or a facial, take a dip in the pool, or soak in the hot tub cabana. So relaxing! There's also a fitness center here and you can book a personal training session if you'd like. With its incredible location and all that it has to offer in terms of luxury, The Little Nell is the place to stay in Aspen.
10. Mackinac Island, Michigan
When visiting Mackinac Island, it feels like an exclusive getaway destination due to the fact that it's an island and only accessible by boat or a private plane. It's also a place that has no cars so relaxation is a key reason why people love to visit along with its incredible beauty. Additionally, there are several high-end restaurants like Woods Restaurant and Bobby's Bar, 1852 Grill Room, and Millie's on Main. For those spending the night on the island, the Grand Hotel offers world-class accommodations with a historically charming ambiance. The hotel first opened in the late 1800s so staying here feels a bit like stepping back in time.
11. Chicago
Chicago is another American city where you can certainly have the ultimate luxury experience. First of all, the architecture is absolutely incredible here, and with its location on Lake Michigan, it's picture-perfect. One fun thing you may want to do when you visit the Windy City is to take a Chicago River Cocktail Cruise to learn about the city's architecture all while imbibing on premium cocktails. If you're interested in the city's fine-dining scene, I implore you to check out one of the many Michelin Star-rated restaurants like Alinea, Avli on the Park, or Girl & The Goat. Of course, you can continue your five-star Chicago experience by booking a stay at any number of luxurious hotels like The Peninsula Chicago, the Waldorf Astoria Chicago, or The Langham Chicago.
12. French Lick Resort — French Lick, Indiana
Indiana might not be the first state you think of for a luxury vacation but maybe it should, especially with a place like French Lick Resort. This historic resort was built in 1845 and became a popular place for visitors who wanted to bathe in the rich hot spring waters in the area. When you stay here, you can certainly feel the rich history all while enjoying its modern amenities. To really treat yourself at the resort, book a massage, facial, pedicure, manicure, body scrub or wrap, or a mineral bath in the 27,000-square-foot spa. As for fine dining, the resort's 1875: The Steakhouse is where to go for upscale American cuisine. The resort's rooms are all well-appointed and there are even dog-friendly rooms if you decide to take your four-legged companion. A stay at French Lick Resort is certainly a bucket-list-worthy experience.
13. Charleston, South Carolina
I lived in Charleston for a short time while working on a TV show. I absolutely loved it. History certainly abounds here as does an overall feel of Southern-style opulence. From its cobblestone streets to its antebellum homes, there is so much history preserved in this charming city. Among the most historic landmarks in town is Fort Sumter National Monument where the Civil War had started.
One thing visitors always rave about when visiting Charleston for the first time is the food. As one of the country's top culinary destinations, you are hard-pressed to find a bad meal here. For fine dining options during your luxury getaway to this gorgeous southern city, I suggest getting a reservation at FIG, High Cotton Charleston Restaurant, Magnolias, Slightly North of Broad, or Halls Chophouse. All are excellent! As for accommodations, book a stay at either Wentworth Mansion, The Charleston Place, or The Loutrel.
14. The Cloister at Sea Island — Sea Island, Georgia
Have you ever wanted to stay on a private island? I have always wanted to experience the seclusion and peace that only comes with staying somewhere so remote. If this is an experience you're looking for, then The Cloister at Sea Island is the resort for you. Set on 50 verdant acres and only accessible to the mainland via a bridge, you'll feel as though you've been transported to some faraway land. As you leave your cares and your worries on the other side of the bridge, allow the relaxed and laidback feelings of Sea Island to take over. Once you settle into your impeccable accommodations at The Cloister, you can enjoy the array of amenities like the private beach club, a pool, several golf courses, a spa, and activities. From the moment you step foot on the island to the moment you check out, a getaway to this resort is an experience to remember.
15. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa - A Noble House Resort — Little Torch Key, Florida
For an adults-only getaway on a private island, you can't get much more luxurious than the Little Palm Island Resort & Spa. Designed with the British West Indies in mind, accommodations are thatched-roof bungalow suites among the palm trees. Suites are between 550 and 1,020 square feet in size, have ocean views, a copper tub outside, indoor and outdoor showers, a private deck, a separate living room, and a beach with a fire pit. As if that's not luxurious enough, there's a pool, a marina, a great room for socializing with fellow guests, a fitness center, yoga classes, nightly turn-down service, and more. The island is only accessible by seaplane or boat so you know this is an experience worth having!
As you can see, each region of the U.S. offers a luxury getaway that anyone would love. The question is, which of the above best U.S. luxury travel destinations will you visit first?
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