20 Best Resorts in USA: Your Ultimate Guide to Vacation Destinations
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Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to wake up to ocean waves, mountain views, or desert sunrises at a place where your every need is taken care of? Across America’s diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to snowy mountains, the best resorts in USA offer experiences that go far beyond just a place to sleep. They create memories that last a lifetime and transform an ordinary vacation into something truly extraordinary.
What Makes a Resort Stand Out from the Crowd?
The best resorts in USA offer more than just comfortable rooms and good service. They create complete experiences that connect you to the beautiful places they call home. Whether it’s a seaside spa resort in Florida, a mountain lodge in Colorado, or a desert retreat in Arizona, these special places share certain qualities:
- Beautiful settings that showcase America’s natural beauty
- Amazing service where staff remember your name
- Activities for all ages and interests
- Food so good you’ll be thinking about it long after your trip
- Special touches that make you feel like a VIP
Let’s explore some of the most incredible resorts across different regions of the United States!
Beach Resorts: Sun, Sand, and Luxury
The Breakers, Palm Beach, Florida
This historic oceanfront resort has welcomed guests since 1896. With its Italian Renaissance style and spectacular ocean views, it remains one of the best resorts in USA for those seeking sunshine and elegance.
What makes it special:
- Four oceanfront pools
- Nine restaurants from casual to fancy
- A half-mile of private beach
- Activities from tennis to snorkeling
Montage Laguna Beach, California
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this resort offers stunning views from almost every room. The arts community of Laguna Beach provides a perfect backdrop for this luxurious getaway.
Highlights include:
- Rooms with ocean-view balconies
- Three swimming pools including a children’s pool
- A 20,000-square-foot spa
- Easy access to tide pools and beautiful beaches
Mauna Lani Resort, Big Island, Hawaii
On Hawaii’s Big Island, this resort brings together luxury accommodations with authentic Hawaiian culture. With three miles of shoreline to explore, it offers countless ways to enjoy paradise.
Don’t miss:
- Snorkeling in the crystal-clear water
- Learning about Hawaiian history at ancient fish ponds
- Watching sea turtles on the black-sand beach
- The traditional luau dinner and show
Mountain Retreats: Fresh Air and Adventure
The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado
As Aspen’s only five-star, five-diamond hotel with ski-in/ski-out access, The Little Nell has earned its place among the best resorts in USA for mountain lovers. In winter, it’s a skier’s dream, while summer brings hiking, biking, and outdoor concerts.
Cool features:
- Ski concierges who warm your boots
- A world-class wine program
- Pet-friendly rooms with special dog amenities
- Free transportation around Aspen
Stein Eriksen Lodge, Park City, Utah
Named after Norwegian Olympic gold medalist Stein Eriksen, this lodge combines European charm with American luxury. The ski-in/ski-out access to Deer Valley Resort makes it perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
Special touches:
- A massive stone fireplace in the lodge
- An award-winning spa
- Heated outdoor pools with mountain views
- Personal ski valets
The Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, New York
This all-suite resort in the Adirondack Mountains captures the spirit of the great camps that were built by wealthy New Yorkers in the 1800s. As one of the best resorts in USA for year-round mountain activities, it welcomes guests with rustic luxury.
What’s awesome:
- Handcrafted Adirondack furniture
- A movie theater just for guests
- An ice cream parlor
- Nightly campfires with s’mores
Desert Oases: Sunshine and Serenity
The Canyon Suites at The Phoenician, Scottsdale, Arizona
This boutique hotel within the larger Phoenician Resort offers an intimate experience with personalized service. The Sonoran Desert provides a stunning backdrop for this luxury getaway.
Neat features:
- A private pool just for Canyon Suites guests
- Desert botanical garden tours
- Star-gazing experiences
- Golf courses with mountain views
La Quinta Resort & Club, Palm Springs, California
Spread across 45 acres at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains, this historic resort has hosted Hollywood stars since 1926. It remains one of the best resorts in USA for those seeking desert relaxation and sunshine.
What makes it special:
- 41 pools spread throughout the property
- Casitas with private patios
- Five golf courses
- A spa that uses desert-inspired treatments
Family-Friendly Destinations
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Orlando, Florida
As Walt Disney World’s flagship resort, the Grand Floridian combines Victorian elegance with family fun. Its location on the Magic Kingdom monorail line makes park visits easy for families with kids of all ages.
Family perks:
- Character breakfasts with Disney friends
- A white-sand beach on Seven Seas Lagoon
- Boat rentals and fishing excursions
- Evening movies under the stars
The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs, Colorado
Open since 1918, this classic resort welcomes families with open arms and endless activities. With 5,000 acres to explore, it’s one of the best resorts in USA for multi-generational family trips.
Why families love it:
- A program just for kids ages 3-12
- Three championship golf courses
- Horseback riding and rock climbing
- Bowling alley and movie theater
Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York
This Victorian castle resort sits on a private lake surrounded by 40,000 acres of forest. With activities changing with the seasons, families return year after year to experience it all.
Great for families because:
- Most meals and activities are included in the rate
- Kids’ club with supervised activities
- Ice skating in winter, lake swimming in summer
- Nightly entertainment for all ages
All-Inclusive Options
Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Port St. Lucie, Florida
As one of the few all-inclusive resorts in the continental U.S., Club Med makes vacation planning simple. Everything from meals to activities is covered in one price.
All-inclusive features:
- Sports academies for tennis, golf, and fitness
- All meals and snacks throughout the day
- Kids’ clubs for different age groups
- Evening entertainment
Twin Farms, Barnard, Vermont
This adults-only all-inclusive resort offers a luxurious country retreat on 300 acres. As one of the best resorts in USA for gourmet food lovers, its farm-to-table meals are included in the rate.
What’s included:
- All meals and snacks prepared by award-winning chefs
- Wine and spirits
- Activities from hiking to canoeing
- Use of the Japanese-style soaking tub
Wellness and Spa Retreats
Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa, Tucson, Arizona
This resort focuses entirely on wellness, offering everything from meditation classes to adventure challenges. The stunning desert setting creates a perfect backdrop for personal transformation.
Wellness offerings:
- Classes in yoga, fitness, and meditation
- Healthy, delicious food that’s also a treat
- Digital device-free spaces
- Life coaches and wellness specialists
Lake Austin Spa Resort, Austin, Texas
Set on the shores of Lake Austin, this boutique resort combines water activities with award-winning spa treatments. It’s one of the best resorts in USA for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
Standout features:
- More than 100 spa treatments
- Water activities from kayaking to paddleboard yoga
- Organic gardens that supply the kitchen
- Healthy cooking classes
Hidden Gems
Blackberry Farm, Walland, Tennessee
Nestled in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, this working farm offers luxury accommodations and farm-to-table dining. The peaceful setting makes it perfect for those seeking quiet luxury.
What makes it special:
- Food harvested from the property
- Activities like fly fishing and horseback riding
- Beautifully decorated rooms with mountain views
- A 160,000-bottle wine cellar
Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California
Perched on the cliffs of Big Sur, this adults-only resort offers dramatic ocean views and complete privacy. It’s among the best resorts in USA for romantic getaways and special celebrations.
Unique features:
- Houses built into the mountainside
- No televisions in rooms to help you disconnect
- Complimentary activities like stargazing and yoga
- Infinity pool that seems to merge with the ocean
How to Choose the Right Resort for Your Vacation
With so many amazing options, how do you pick the perfect resort? Here are some tips:
- Think about what kind of setting speaks to you—beach, mountains, or desert?
- Consider who’s traveling with you and what activities they enjoy.
- Decide what’s most important—is it the food, the spa, or the activities?
- Figure out your budget, including extra costs like resort fees and activities.
- Check what season is best for visiting your chosen destination.
Conclusion
From sun-soaked beaches to snow-capped mountains, the best resorts in USA offer extraordinary experiences in some of America’s most beautiful places. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, family fun, or romantic seclusion, there’s a perfect resort waiting to welcome you.
The right resort doesn’t just give you a place to stay—it becomes part of your journey and creates memories that last long after you return home. With so many incredible options across the country, your dream vacation at one of America’s best resorts is just waiting to be planned.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a hotel and a resort?
Resorts typically offer more amenities and activities than hotels. They’re designed as destinations themselves, with restaurants, pools, spas, and organized activities on the property. Hotels usually provide just a place to sleep with basic amenities.
What is the best time of year to visit beach resorts in Florida?
The best time is typically March through May when the weather is warm but not too hot, and before hurricane season starts. Winter months (December-February) are also popular but can be more expensive.
Do I need to rent a car if I’m staying at a resort?
It depends on the resort. Many luxury resorts offer shuttle services to nearby attractions. All-inclusive resorts often have everything you need on property. Check with your specific resort before deciding.
Are resort fees always required?
Many resorts charge mandatory resort fees that cover amenities like pool access, wifi, and fitness centers. These fees are usually not included in the initial room rate. Always ask about resort fees when booking.
Which resorts are best for a honeymoon?
Adults-only resorts like Post Ranch Inn in California, Twin Farms in Vermont, and many Hawaiian resorts are ideal for honeymoons. Look for resorts with private dining options, couples’ spa treatments, and romantic settings.
How far in advance should I book a resort stay?
For popular resorts or peak travel times (summer, holidays), book 6-12 months in advance. For off-season travel, 3-6 months ahead is usually sufficient.