The autumn season carries with it a palpable buzz of excitement. From the invigorating back-to-school atmosphere and the glamour of Fashion Week, to the thrill of football season, fall is a blend of comforting and chaotic moments. It’s safe to say we could all benefit from a rejuvenating break amid the whirlwind.
Before your imagination takes you on a European escapade or a tropical sojourn this autumn, think about the restorative options within the United States for a weekend retreat. Whether you’re yearning for an adventurous experience amid the untamed landscapes of the American West, or you’re craving a sanctuary of relaxation at a luxurious spa, there’s something stateside to fit the bill. Read ahead for a curated list of 16 U.S. hotels ideal for an unforgettable late-autumn getaway.
Recharge with Nature
Sage Lodge, Montana
Tucked away along the shores of the Yellowstone River in Montana’s idyllic Paradise Valley, Sage Lodge is celebrated for its inviting ambiance and top-notch outdoor experiences. Beyond the awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding mountains, the lodge offers an array of spa therapies and cuisine that captures the essence of Montana. Adventure-seekers can indulge in an array of year-round activities, from exploring Yellowstone to fly fishing, equestrian pursuits, hot air ballooning, and even helicopter excursions.
Taylor River Lodge, Colorado
Eager for an authentic cabin experience? Eleven’s Taylor River Lodge has mastered the art of glamping, seamlessly blending adventure and opulence in a sprawling Colorado canyon. The lodge offers an eclectic mix of activities such as fishing, axe-throwing, archery, and white-water rafting. As an added perk, guests can savor gourmet meals tailored to their tastes by a chef who employs ultra-fresh, organic ingredients cultivated on the property. (Interested in prolonging your Colorado sojourn? Explore more one-of-a-kind accommodations in the state.)
Hoodoo Moab
With vistas of Moab’s signature red rock formations in Utah, Hoodoo serves as an idyllic retreat for nature aficionados and thrill-seekers alike. Situated a mere 10 minutes from Arches National Park, this upscale lodging embraces its natural surroundings through its desert-inspired interior aesthetics. (Intrigued about further travel possibilities in Utah? Peruse our guide to romantic escapes in the state.)
Recharge with Spa
Miraval Berkshires
Regarded as the epitome of opulent well-being, this sanctuary of wellness nestled in the Massachusetts mountains has something for everyone, from exercise enthusiasts to couples yearning for a deeper connection. Miraval goes beyond traditional wellness pursuits to offer an expansive range of activities. Whether it’s traversing the breathtaking natural scenery on a bike, by foot, or even while lounging in the infinity pool, this retreat promises a holistic experience.
The Ranch at Malibu
For those aiming to whittle down their waistline or achieve peak physical condition, the Ranch at Malibu holds iconic status, celebrated for its intense boot camp-inspired fitness sessions set against a stunning California backdrop. But rest assured, the experience is steeped in luxury as well. Each morning, guests are gently roused by the resonant tones of Tibetan chimes in their sumptuous cottages. During their stay, they’re also pampered with an array of spa services, massages, and IV therapies.
Sanctuary at Kiawah
A mere 20 miles from Charleston, this South Carolina haven lives up to its name by offering an unspoiled locale complemented by a revitalizing spa. The Sanctuary at Kiawah seamlessly blends the opulence of a high-end beach resort with the warmth of Southern hospitality. In addition to an extensive wellness menu that features solariums and all-day spa treatments, the resort also boasts a top-notch golf and tennis curriculum.
Lake Austin Spa
Strategically positioned just beyond Austin’s city limits, yet enveloped by the expansive allure of Texas Hill Country, Lake Austin Spa epitomizes relaxed sophistication. Visitors are treated to organic, farm-to-table dining, culinary tutorials led by accomplished chefs, and holistic wellness sessions that include sound therapy, sensory engagement, and guided mindfulness. The property’s rustic barn pool also adds to the dreamlike experience.
Recharge with Culture
The Greenwich Hotel
Favored by the glitterati and connoisseurs of fine taste, this high-end TriBeCa hotel is an evergreen choice for New York City travels. Each of its 88 rooms features bespoke decor complete with plush furnishings like sumptuous velvet sofas and rich jewel hues, along with globally-curated artworks. Be sure not to overlook a dining experience at Locanda Verde, where the lemon ricotta pancakes are nothing short of culinary cloud-like perfection.
Shinola Detroit
It’s invigorating to see that Shinola, the high-end fashion label, has carved out a niche in Detroit, affectionately known as Motor City. This iconic hotel has recently undergone a chic, modern makeover in the bustling downtown Woodward district. The property boasts an impressive assemblage of art along with a dining experience that draws inspiration from local flavors. For visitors inclined towards retail therapy, the nearby Parker’s Alley offers a trendy streetscape filled with an eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and more.
The Faena
The Faena graces Miami’s South Beach as a quintessential five-star establishment, featuring guest rooms influenced by Art Deco aesthetics. As a key venue for the yearly Art Basel event, the hotel not only honors Miami’s current artistic landscape but also showcases a striking Golden Mammoth sculpture by Damien Hirst, elegantly encased in glass beside the pool.
1 Hotel San Francisco
A visit to Northern California’s capital never disappoints, and the 1 Hotel is particularly noteworthy for its rooftop terrace, which offers panoramic vistas of the city’s Embarcadero waterfront. A haven for design aficionados, this pet-friendly establishment captivates guests with its eco-chic interiors, skillfully crafted from natural and reclaimed resources. The decor is an elegant blend of smooth stone, sumptuous leather, and abundant greenery.
Recharge with Food
High Hampton Resort
To truly immerse yourself in the season’s unpretentious joys, look no further than the legendary Blue Ridge Mountains. Nestled alongside a vast lake in North Carolina, High Hampton Resort was thoughtfully rejuvenated in 2021. With a storied history that spans a century, the hotel leans into its past by offering an ambiance reminiscent of a classic hunting lodge. Guests can partake in a wide array of on-site activities, ranging from golf and tennis to more leisurely pastimes like lawn games, including croquet.
Solage Napa
This exquisite Auberge estate in California’s Napa Valley offers a sensory indulgence, featuring lavish lodging, gastronomic delights, and a diverse menu of wellness amenities. The culinary landscape is expansive, encompassing a variety of dining venues and bars, a pizza-making journey led by a skilled chef, and, naturally, a selection of wine-tasting experiences.
The Allison Inn & Spa
Venture to Oregon’s lesser-known yet captivating wine region during harvest season for a culinary escapade of your dreams. Situated in the picturesque Willamette Valley, the Allison Inn & Spa graces a bucolic landscape encircled by an abundance of vineyards. While the sumptuous spa is a draw in itself, the true gem is the esteemed Jory restaurant. Here, you can savor exceptional farm-to-table dishes—including a signature duck tasting and wagyu beef—complemented by expertly selected local wines.
Twin Farms
This pastoral retreat situated in the idyllic town of Barnard, Vermont, is a haven for both culinary aficionados and lovers of vibrant foliage. Guests are treated to delectable homemade breakfasts, gourmet midday meals—which can also be enjoyed as picnics at a location of your choice—and evening feasts sourced directly from local farms. The property places a strong emphasis on seasonal culinary offerings, even featuring specialized dining experiences such as white truffle tastings.