Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or an urban adventure, it pays to know the best hotels. A good hotel can make your trip, while a bad one can ruin it. The good news is that a new generation of luxury hotels has ushered in an era of design-forward details, out-of-the-box amenities and Michelin-starred chefs.
But while it’s possible to find five-star properties with a low price tag, the true mark of an exceptional hotel is a unique experience and a sense of place. To help you discover the best hotels, we asked travelers and industry experts to name their top picks. Some are century-old institutions, while others are recent newcomers. We also asked for their tips on how to spot the most luxurious hotels in their cities.
The results are in: The best hotels in America combine high-end touches with a personal touch.
As travel continues to reopen post pandemic, hotels are stepping up their game to meet the demands of consumers. In fact, a new study by J.D. Power reveals that overall satisfaction levels are up this year. The top hotels deliver on a number of key factors, including staff, quality of accommodations and room service.
The best hotels in New York City combine high-end touches with a personal twist.
New York City has more than 700 hotels, but the top ones offer a truly memorable stay with their out-of-the-box amenities and a sense of place. For example, The Langham is the perfect option for travelers who want to feel at home in Manhattan. Rooms skew unusually large for NYC, and each features a refined, yet cozy look. There’s a Duxiana bed, marble bathrooms and a working desk to help you keep on task. Plus, the centralized location makes it easy to hit up all of Manhattan’s landmarks on foot.
Meanwhile, The Carlyle is a century-old institution that’s imprinted itself into the city’s zeitgeist. The property, now a Rosewood hotel, boasts that it’s hosted every president since Truman and its rooms are decked out in Art Deco black and white with modern touches from designers like Thierry Despont. Plus, if you really want to impress a date, book the rooftop suite with its floor-to-ceiling views and three private terraces.
Those who prefer a more residential feel can head to Brooklyn for a dose of nature-inspired design. The 1 Hotel in Brooklyn offers a refreshing escape from the concrete jungle with reclaimed wood floors and a multi-story green wall in the lobby. Front-facing rooms and the rooftop bar and terrace feature jaw-dropping views of Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan and the Brooklyn skyline. There are also spas, organic mattresses and an in-room water filter. You can even shop for hotel-themed wallpaper based on the property’s whimsical decor (think martini glasses and olives).