The United States of America is possibly the most ecologically and geographically diverse nation in the world. The destination options are endless, with everything from snow-capped glacial mountains to tropical oases.
Certain landmarks in this North American powerhouse are iconic. From gorgeous national parks to metropolises like New York City, there are endless things to do and see. Beyond natural diversity, the United States has vibrant cultural diversity. The country encompasses every single community on Earth.
Resort vacations in the United States are an excellent option to rest and unwind or do something adventurous. The nation is home to thousands of great facilities, from luxurious tropical destinations to rustic mountain escapes.
The average cost of a four-night stay at a United States resort for one person is $1,287. This excludes airfare. The average price for the United State’s peak season between May and August is around $1,674. Alternatively, traveling during the low season of September through February will set a traveler out about $901.
The United States has endless things to do. Some of the best include exploring national parks, relaxing on hundreds of thousands of miles of coastline, and visiting the nation’s impressive cities.
The famous Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando is our top pick for the best family resort in the United States for a reason. It has plenty to offer beyond Italian decor and world-class dining.
1. Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando, Florida
The Loews Portofino Bay Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in Florida due to its iconic Mediterranean flare. As the name implies, a step onto this property feels like being transported to the stunning Italian Riviera. Beyond mesmerizing decor, this resort has plenty to do and is directly connected to Universal Studios theme park.
This resort is home to three pools, Italian shopping in an outdoor piazza, and plenty of games for the whole family. There are also poolside activities like slides and crafts. If you can find a free moment, spend some time at the relaxing spa and utilize the onsite jogging paths.
One of the primary draws to this stunning resort is its ties to Universal Studios. Guests may bundle their stay with park passes and early arrival to the famous Orlando amusement park.
The Loews Portofino takes its dedication to the Italian town of Portofino seriously. Small touches like Vespas parked along cobblestone avenues and Italian music nights make this resort special. This may be the next best thing if you can’t get to Italy.
There are eight onsite dining options at Loews. Many offer authentic Italian dining. The most famous is Bice. This popular Italian ristorante opened in Milan in 1926 and popped up across Italy after that. Today, guests can dine here stateside at the Loews portofino Resort.
Accommodations at the resort have the same Italian flare that the rest of the decor follows. There are plenty of rooms, suites, and club-level options.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,488
Address: 5601 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819
Phone: (407) 503-1000
Website: www.universalorlando.com/web/en/us/places-to-stay/loews-Portofino-bay-hotel
Hotels.com Rating: 9/10
2. Topnotch Resort, Vermont
New England is home to lush green mountains and the most stunning fall foliage in the nation. Topnotch Resort in Stowe, Vermont, is perched on a mountainside overlooking this expansive wilderness. The 120-acre resort is the perfect place for both summer and winter recreation lovers looking to escape to the mountains.
Topnotch Resort offers plenty of things to do on resort grounds, from extensive hiking trails to a luxurious spa. An outdoor swimming pool is also open in the summertime.
Stowe is considered one of the East Coast’s premier skiing capitals. Topnotch Resort is an excellent basecamp for this winter activity. A tennis camp, fishing excursions, and horse-drawn carriage rides are also available.
Topnotch Resort offers onsite dining serving three meals a day in an intimate setting. Their food highlights the rich culinary offerings of Vermont from local farms, cheesemongers, and winemakers.
There is a range of rooms and suites for guests to choose from at Topnotch. If you’re looking for a longer stay, there are also resort homes with up to three bedrooms and three baths. These are perfect for larger families and groups.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $2,796
Address: 4000 Mountain Rd, Stowe, VT 05672
Phone: (802) 253-8585
Website: www.topnotchresort.com
Hotels.com Rating: 9/10
3. Sunriver Resort, a Destination Hotel, Oregon
The Sunriver Resort is in the foothills of the Cascade Mountain range. It offers a luxury vacation with the rustic feel of mountain life.
Some of the premier amenities at this resort include bike and boat rentals, numerous golf courses, a pool, and a relaxing spa. The large resort also has over 40 miles worth of bike trails. It is an excellent location to access phenomenal Oregon outdoor recreation.
There are eight different dining options at Sunriver Resort. They all focus on fresh, farm-to-table fare served in a gorgeous mountain setting.
Accommodations at Sunriver Resort include rooms and vacation rental homes on the property. The homes are perfect for larger families, while the rooms are cozy and intimate.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $643
Address: 17600 Center Dr, Sunriver, OR 97707
Phone: (855) 420-8206
Website: www.sunriverresort.com
Hotels.com Rating: 8.8/10
4. Hotel Del Coronado, Curio Collection by Hilton, California
The Hotel Del Coronado is a historic San Diego Resort that has welcomed guests since 1888. It is perched on the coast and offers luxurious accommodations across facility grounds.
One of the most popular things to do at “the Del” is to visit the expansive coastline. Relax in a plush daybed or take a moonlight surf stroll on San Diego’s shore. The resort also has a cabana pool, a seaside spa, and shopping.
Activities are at the forefront of this resort. The hotel embraces its rich history and rumors of the resort being haunted with fireside ghost stories, haunted hotel tours, and even an onsite museum.
The Hotel Del Coronado has eight onsite restaurants, from elegant seaside experiences to quick bites by the cabana pool. They also have dining activities and events like fireside roasts on the beach and plenty of live music at the surfside taco shack.
There are a handful of locations to choose from when booking a stay at the Hotel Del Coronado. The Victorian is the original hotel with plenty of elegant charm and history. Guests may also choose to stay at the Cabanas, the Views, Beach Village, or the Shore House.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $2,408
Address: 1500 Orange Ave, Coronado, CA 92118
Phone: (619) 435-6611
Website: https://hoteldel.com/
Hotels.com Rating: 7/10
5. The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection, Rhode Island
The Vanderbilt is a historic luxury hotel in one of the most stunning towns in New England.
The refined facility offers activities like high tea, dinner parties, and town tours. They also have the most famous restaurant in Newport onsite and three other restaurants, including a rooftop lounge overlooking the harbor.
Accommodations at the Vanderbilt include moody-chic suites and rooms with gilded-age glamour and old-school decor.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $2,116
Address: 41 Mary St, Newport, RI 02840
Phone: (833) 242-8850
Website: https://aubergeresorts.com/vanderbilt/
Hotels.com Rating: 9/10
6. Grand Wailea Waldorf Resort, Hawaii
The Grand Wailea is a beachfront resort in Maui nestled into a 40-acre property with ocean access and beautiful nature to explore. As a member of the Waldorf Astoria chain, there are few better resorts on the island.
There is plenty to do at the Grand Wailea Resort Hotel and Spa. A stay here isn’t complete without spending time at the onsite beach club or one of the gorgeous pools. They also have daily beach yoga and other outdoor fitness classes beside the impressive hotel gym. This is an excellent resort for anyone interested in scuba diving – they offer daily scuba clinics.
Food lovers are in luck at Grand Wailea. The resort offers nine restaurants, from world-class venues to a grotto bar. Their restaurant Lu’au even offers traditional Hawaiian performances for dinner with a show.
Room options at the Grand Wailea include ocean-view suites, terrace and balcony rooms, and themed king and queen suites.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $8,023
Address: 3850 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753
Phone: (808) 875-1234
Website: www.hilton.com/en/hotels/jhmgwwa-grand-Wailea
Hotels.com Rating: 8.8/10
7. The Buccaneer, US Virgin Islands
The U.S. Virgin Islands is a stunning destination. Since it is a U.S. territory, citizens do not need a passport to travel here. The island of St. Croix has world-class accommodations in a tropical oasis. The Buccaneer is their best.
Amenities at the Buccaneer include a world-class golf course, fitness center, tennis courts, swimming pools, and direct access to the beach. There is also onsite shopping and five restaurants serving fresh, local flavors.
Accommodations at the Buccaneer include gorgeous resort rooms and larger beach houses perfect for families. Many have views of the tranquil Caribbean.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,692
Address: 5007 Estate, Christiansted, 00824, U.S. Virgin Islands
Phone: (800) 255-3881
Website: https://www.thebuccaneer.com/
Hotels.com Rating: 9.2/10
8. Kimpton Taconic Hotel, Vermont
The Kimpton Taconic Hotel is nestled into the quaint New England town of Manchester. The historic building is as luxurious as it is rustic. There is plenty of charm here, accompanied by many things to do for the entire family.
The resort is home to a state-of-the-art fitness center and pool. They are also big on catering to kids. They offer a range of custom programs geared toward children, from art workshops to performances. Build snowmen, go biking or scootering in the summer, and leave your kids with dedicated hotel staff.
The hotel has one upscale restaurant onsite serving local flare. It features the local farmers and products of Vermont. There are several local farms that the Taconic sources from, so everything prepared on the property has a farm-to-table focus.
Accommodations at the Kimpton Taconic include a variety of guest rooms and suites. Many come with fireplaces and stunning mountain views.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,504
Address: 3835 Main St, Manchester, VT 05254
Phone: (802) 362-0147
Website: https://www.taconichotel.com/
Hotels.com Rating: 9.2/10
9. Baker’s Cay Resort, Florida
Baker’s Cay Resort is a stunning oceanside oasis in Key Largo, Florida. The property encompasses 15 private acres for guests to enjoy. This includes swimming pools, ocean access, a spa, and outdoor recreation.
The large resort has plenty of fun amenities and activities to enjoy with the whole family. There are two onsite tennis courts, a sprawling white sand beach, and access to both bayside and oceanside coastlines. It is the perfect place to relax. There are so many places to lounge guests could choose a new view every day.
The bayside beach has calm waters perfect for kids. At the same time, older family members may enjoy splashing around in the seaside waves. Few resorts in the world have two different coast options.
Baker’s Cay is the premier destination for luxury. It is owned by Hilton’s Curio Collection – their highest tier of elegant stays.
The resort has a handful of onsite restaurants for guests to enjoy. One of the best offers a taste of the Caribbean with creole food. There are also plenty of sustainable seafood choices. It is all freshly caught and local to the Caribbean.
Guests can choose from a range of rooms at Baker’s Cay. The majority overlook either the ocean or the bay. The largest suite can even accommodate a family of four.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $3,557
Address: 97000 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
Phone: (305) 852-5553
Website: https://www.bakerscay.com/
Hotels.com Rating: 8.8/10
10. Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, California
There are few mountain destinations in the state of California more famous than Lake Tahoe. The Ritz Carlton is easily the best accommodation here. Some premier amenities include ski-in rooms, an indulgent spa, and an exclusive club overlooking the famed lake.
Although the resort offers four seasons of fun, much of the draw comes from the coziness of Lake Tahoe in the winter. Participate in world-class skiing and other snowy activities.
Dining at the Ritz Carlton emulates an upscale lodge feel with wood-burning fireplaces and hearty meals. There are six restaurants onsite.
Accommodations at the Ritz-Carlton include rooms, suites, and residencies. Many have breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,996
Address: 13031 Ritz Carlton Highlands Ct, Truckee, CA 96161
Phone: (530) 562-3000
Website: www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/california/lake-Tahoe
Hotels.com Rating: 8.8/10
11. Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club, Florida
The Lago Mar Beach Resort and Club is located on the idyllic coast of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The expansive property is the perfect place to relax and unwind while remaining adventurous.
Some best things to do at the Lago Mar include beach volleyball, a putting course, beach games, and nightly live entertainment. The resort also has a large pool directly on the ocean, a 9,000 square-foot lagoon, and 500 feet of private beach access with cabanas and chairs for guests.
There are seven different restaurants and bars onsite at the Lago Mar. The best is Acquario. This refined dining establishment is a modern American bistro serving upscale meals focused on fresh ingredients and expert preparation techniques.
Accommodations at the Lago Mar include various rooms and suites that are vibrant with coastal charm. There are also two-bedroom suites for larger families and an executive penthouse option. Many of the rooms have stunning views of the resort and ocean.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,700
Address: 1700 S Ocean Ln, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Phone: (954) 523-6511
Website: https://lagomar.com/
Hotels.com Rating: 9.2/10
12. Suncadia Resort, Washington
Washington State is one of the most gorgeous destinations in the United States for outdoor recreation. At Suncadia, guests can do everything from golf to enjoy the spa on this 60,000-acre resort.
Suncadia features over 40 miles of hiking trails, onsite pools, and outdoor recreation, from kayaking to biking. The resort also features the local flavors of Washington with farm-to-table dining at eight onsite restaurants.
Accommodations at Suncadia include rooms, suites, and vacation rentals. Many overlook the stunning Washington wilderness.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,172
Address: 3600 Suncadia Trail, Cle Elum, WA 98922
Phone: (877) 220-1438
Website: www.destinationhotels.com/suncadia-resort
Hotels.com Rating: 8.2/10
13. Kingsmill Resort, Virginia
The Kingsmill Resort is ranked as one of the best golf and spa resorts on the entire East Coast. This refined estate destination has everything a family needs for a luxury vacation.
The resort has three golf courses and a professionally taught golf academy. They also have a state-of-the-art spa, a variety of pools, a lazy river, tennis courts, a marina, and bike rentals. There is plenty more to do beyond the resort in the attractive town of Williamsburg.
Kingsmill has four onsite dining options that serve three meals a day. They also offer holiday feasts for guests that choose to stay with them over Thanksgiving.
Accommodations at Kingsmill include cottages, guest rooms, and estate rooms.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $676
Address: 1010 Kingsmill Rd, Williamsburg, VA 23185
Phone: (800) 832-5665
Website: https://www.kingsmill.com/
Hotels.com Rating: 8.8/10
14. YMCA of the Rockies, Colorado
The YMCA of the Rockies is a casual resort with plenty to do. This all-inclusive getaway is the perfect place for active families looking for plenty of recreational vacation activities.
This resort is incredibly activity-focused. There is complimentary roller skating, an indoor pool, mini golf, dog parks, and many hiking trails. They also have a snow tubing and mountain ranch, making it the perfect winter getaway. Guests may also participate in axe throwing, archery, dog sledding, and horseback riding.
The resort offers all-you-can-eat dining at two different restaurants. The YMCA is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle, and its food options reflect this. Expect plenty of fresh options meant to fuel the body.
Accommodations at the YMCA of the Rockies include cabins, rooms, camping, and even yurts. Cabins have 2-5 bedrooms, making them the perfect option for larger families.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $389
Address: 2515 Tunnel Rd, Estes Park, CO 80511
Phone: (970) 586-3341
Website: https://ymcarockies.org/
Hotels.com Rating: 8.4/10
15. Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club, Hawaii
Maui is a top global vacation destination. Marriott’s Ocean Club is one of the island’s most fabulous places to stay. It promises relaxation and adventure.
The spa, fitness center, and water features are some of the best amenities at the Maui Ocean Club. The resort has three glistening pools to choose from, and each has a variety of cabanas and chairs to lounge in.
The resort also has direct access to the ocean. It is near all of the exciting shopping and activities that Maui has to offer.
The resort has five onsite dining options, from cafes to upscale restaurants. Longhi’s Restaurant is one of their best. This fine dining establishment serves coastal Italian dishes using locally sourced Hawaiian produce and seafood.
Accommodations at the Ocean Club include villas, guest rooms, and suites. Some of the options include multi-room facilities and oceanfront views.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $3,660
Address: Marriott Vacation Club, 100 Nohea Kai Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761
Phone: (808) 667-1200
Website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnmmu-Marriotts-Maui-ocean-club-lahaina-and-napili-towers
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6/10
16. The Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa, Colorado
Vail, Colorado, is one of the nation’s top winter destinations. The Westin Riverfront has iconic views, luxurious accommodations, and many onsite activities beyond skiing and snowboarding.
Amenities at the Westin include a spa, fitness center, outdoor heated pool, and more. There are also five onsite restaurants for guests, ranging from upscale fare to poolside bites.
Accommodations at the Westin include studio suites, traditional rooms, and one-bedroom options. Many have stunning views of the mountains.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $3,132
Address: 126 Riverfront Ln, Avon, CO 81620
Phone: (970) 790-6000
Website: www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/whrbw-the-Westin-riverfront-resort-and-spa-avon-vail-valley
Hotels.com Rating: 9/10
17. Kimpton Shorebreak Resort, California
The Kimpton Shorebreak is a boutique beach resort located directly off the picturesque Pacific highway. The facility is relaxed and coastal, with all of the seaside elegance of a luxury resort.
Amenities at the Kimpton Shorebreak include a nightly social hour, weekly yoga classes, a spa, and outdoor games and recreation geared towards kids. The beach is a major draw of this resort, with an onsite surf lodge, beach cruisers, and chair rentals.
The resort is home to the high-end restaurant Pacific Hideaway. This refined establishment serves light coastal fare with live music and coastal elegance.
Accommodations at the Kimpton Shorebreak include one and two-bedroom suites. Many overlook the stunning Pacific ocean.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $948
Address: 500 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Phone: (714) 861-4470
Website: www.shorebreakhotel.com
Hotels.com Rating: 9.2/10
18. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, Texas
As one of the largest states in the nation, Texas has some stunning resorts. One of their best for nature lovers is the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort.
Activities at this San Antonio resort include a five-acre water park, onsite recreation from hiking trails to bike rentals, and pool cabanas.
There are also six onsite restaurants for guests to indulge in. Their best is Antlers Lodge. This traditional Texas steakhouse serves the finest cuts of meat in a refined lodge house setting.
Accommodations at the Hyatt include rooms and suites overlooking lush foliage. Some have walkout patios and private balconies.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,056
Address: 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251
Phone: (210) 647-1234
Website: www.hyatt.com/en-US/hotel/texas/hyatt-regency-hill-country-resort-and-spa
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6/10
19. The Grove Resort, Florida
The Grove is a waterpark and resort located in Orlando, Florida. They are an incredibly kid-friendly destination close to all the theme parks the city has to offer, like Disney and Universal.
The best thing to do at this resort is enjoy the waterpark. It features a surf simulator, water slides, a kid’s activity pool, and a 695-foot lazy river. The resort also has a state-of-the-art spa.
Dining onsite includes four different restaurants, bars, and cafes. The best is the Valencia Restaurant. This establishment features an upscale menu and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodations at the Grove include two and three-bedroom suites.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $1,204
Address: 14501 Grove Resort Ave, Winter Garden, FL 34787
Phone: (407) 545-7500
Website: www.groveresortorlando.com
Hotels.com Rating: 8.6/10
20. Sun Valley Resort, Idaho
Sun Valley, Idaho, is a stunning winter destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Even in the off-season, this historic resort has plenty to do.
Amenities at the resort include a state-of-the-art spa, a gym, a yoga studio, a glass-enclosed outdoor pool, and plenty of restaurants and lounges.
The resort features a range of accommodations, including premier suites and rooms. Many overlook the gorgeous panorama of Sun Valley.
Estimated Cost of a 4-Night Stay: $844
Address: 1 Sun Valley Rd, Sun Valley, ID 83353
Phone: (800) 786-8259
Website: https://www.sunvalley.com/lodging/sun-valley-lodge/
Hotels.com Rating: 9.4/10