Bucket List
By Sarah McCosham
|Updated on May 15, 2023(Originally published May 09, 2023)
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Sarah McCosham
Author
I write like it's my job - because it is! I have a Master's in English and love words: crossword puzzles, Scrabble games, Wordle, and, of course, good, old-fashioned books.I'm a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState, and a contributing writer at Cincinnati Magazine. I love the Great Outdoors and am endlessly awestruck by this beautiful country of ours. Coffee keeps me going, yoga keeps me sane, my kids keep me grounded, and my writing keeps me inspired.
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As local travel experts, we know what travelers are looking for when it comes to finding the perfect accommodations for their next trip. To compile our lists, we scour the internet to find properties with excellent ratings and reviews, desirable amenities, nearby attractions, and that something special that makes a destination worthy of traveling for.
You don’t have to have your passport in hand to visit some truly wondrous destinations. All across the U.S., there are superb destinations that are truly bucket-list level, sure to fuel and satisfy your wanderlust. And if it’s a luxurious resort you’re seeking, you’ll find those right here, too. Retreats, spas, and luxurious hotels — you’ll find the most unbelievably amazing accommodations in America’s most idyllic, wondrous places. These 21 destination resorts are some of the best resorts in the USA that offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences that are extraordinary in every way.
Table of Contents
Oceanfront Resorts In The U.S.
Mountain Resorts In The U.S.
All-Inclusive Resorts In The U.S.
Remote Resorts In The U.S.
Unique Resorts In The U.S.
Oceanfront Resorts In The U.S.
Ocean House Beach, Westerly, RI 02891, USA
- Address: Ocean House Beach, Westerly, RI 02891
- Standout Amenity: Butler service
Set atop a bluff overlooking the sea in Watch Hill, Ocean House is peak New England: historic, stately, and a bit regal. The resort offers guests a five-star seaside experience, complete with a full-service spa, a highly-rated restaurant, and a private beach with complimentary butler service. In terms of accommodations, Ocean House has 49 gorgeous guest rooms and 20 luxurious signature suites, many of which feature private balconies opening out to the captivating Rhode Island coastline. Find out for yourself why Ocean House is consistently ranked among the best US resorts.
The Sea Pines Resort, 32 Greenwood Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928, USA
- Address: 32 Greenwood Dr, Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
- Standout Amenity: 120-foot-long pool
Hilton Head is a well-known and beloved coastal vacation destination, and The Sea Pines Resort is the island's crown jewel. Located along 5,000 oceanfront acres, The Sea Pines Resort is a world unto itself, offering guests a luxurious and prestigious experience of the popular island. The Sea Pines Resort boasts an array of attractions, including beautiful beaches, championship golf courses, myriad tennis courts, scenic biking trails, and an abundance of fine dining options. Accommodations within Sea Pines include suites at the world-renowned Inn & Club at Harbour Town, lavish villas, and some of the poshest properties on the island.
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Acqualina Resort & Residences On The Beach, 17875 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160, USA
- Address: 17875 Collins Ave, Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160
- Standout Amenity: State-of-the-art spa
When you think of "destination resorts" in the U.S., Florida is perhaps the first place that comes to mind. And Florida's Acqualina Resort & Spa is the pinnacle of coastal destination resorts. This prestigious place boasts five-star service among some of the most amazing natural surroundings in the country for an experience that's truly incomparable. Set on a pristine stretch of Miami Beach, Acqualina Resort & Spa is a luxurious retreat that embraces the oceanfront experience. Beachfront pools, cabanas, dining, and guest suite balconies all guarantee you'll be feeling the calm coastal breezes for the duration of your stay. This truly is one of the best resorts in the United States.
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Terranea Resort, 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275, USA
- Address: 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
- Standout Amenity: Fitness & Wellness Center
Dramatically situated at the edge of the Pacific Ocean on Southern California's Palos Verdes Peninsula, Terranea Resort is 102 acres of picture-perfect paradise. A mix of classic Mediterranean architecture and laid-back SoCal vibes, Terranea Resort is unlike any other place in the country. The resort features a variety of accommodation options including luxurious suites, bungalows, casitas, and villas. While at the resort, guests can choose from an endless array of world-class activities and amenities, including myriad five-star dining options, an acclaimed spa, a prestigious golf course, ocean kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, surfing and archery lessons, horseback riding, and even whale watching.
Mountain Resorts In The U.S.
1001 Lafayette Dr, Farmington, PA 15437, USA
- Address: 1001 Lafayette Dr, Farmington, PA 15437
- Standout Amenity: Scenic golf course
Nemacolin Woodlands Resort is a place of pure fantasy, set on 2,000 wooded acres in the Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. The resort is grand in every way, from its opulent accommodations and dining to the sheer size of its grounds. At Nemacolin, there is a near-endless array of activities and attractions, including Jeep off-roading, glow bowling, an adventure park, a casino, art classes, golf courses, and a full-service spa. This Pennsylvania retreat really is a world unto itself!
2000 Busted Rock Rd, Meadows of Dan, VA 24120, USA
- Address: 2000 Busted Rock Rd, Meadows of Dan, VA 24120
- Standout Amenity: Auberge Spa
Located within the breathtakingly beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia sits a majestic, 12,000-acre estate that's truly fit for its wondrous surroundings. Primland Resort is a top-rated destination that's known for its scenic splendor and superlative accommodations and attractions. A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the resort offers everything from horseback riding through lush forests to fly fishing in crystal-clear streams. What sets Primland apart, however, is that it's a true escape in nature, and this is perhaps best evidenced by its luxe log cabins and extraordinary treehouse accommodations.
The Broadmoor, 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, USA
- Address: 1 Lake Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
- Standout Amenity: Tennis and Pickleball
The Broadmoor is an iconic hotel located in Colorado Springs, with a history as prestigious as the resort itself. The Broadmoor opened in 1918, with John D. Rockefeller among the hotel's first guests. Today, the 5,000-acre resort offers guests luxe accommodations and amenities, including a full-service spa, three golf courses, and a world-renowned restaurant, The Penrose Room. A place that celebrates the rugged beauty of Colorful Colorado, The Broadmoor boasts a bucket-list-worthy selection of activities and outdoor recreation, including ziplining courses, horseback riding, kayaking, and fly fishing. Find out for yourself why this is one of the best resorts in the US.
Sun Mountain Lodge, 604 Patterson Lake Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862, USA
- Address: 604 Patterson Lake Rd, Winthrop, WA 98862
- Standout Amenity: Wide variety of activities
If the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest is calling your name, there's no better retreat than Washington's Sun Mountain Lodge. This resort is the pinnacle of luxury; curate your package to include spa treatments, outdoor recreation activities, and delicious dining options. No matter what time of year you visit, you're in for a completely wondrous experience. In the spring and summer, lovely wildflowers color the mountain landscape, simply perfect for hiking and biking excursions. In the autumn, the crisp mountain air and abundant fall foliage will leave you swooning. But this Washington retreat might just be the most possessing in the winter, when snow-capped peaks and dwindling daylight make for some of the most stellar stargazing in the entire country (and, of course, incredible cold-weather recreation).
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All-Inclusive Resorts In The U.S.
Brush Creek Ranch LLC, 66 County Road 203, Saratoga, WY 82331, USA
- Address: 66 County Road 203, Saratoga, WY 82331
- Standout Amenity: Farm-to-table cuisine
If you're looking for a luxury resort experience, you'll find one of the world’s best in Wyoming. This collection of luxury guest ranches is situated on 30,000 glorious acres of rugged beauty in southern Wyoming's Platte River Valley and is truly an unparalleled experience. In addition to its swoon-worthy accommodations, Brush Creek Ranch offers guests bucket-list-level experiences, such as yoga classes taught on Falcon's Peak, horseback rides through the Wyoming wilds, rock climbing expeditions, aerial adventure courses, bespoke spirit tastings, and cooking classes taught by top chefs. It truly is a little slice of heaven for those who want to enjoy nature from the lap of luxury.
1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, USA
- Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561
- Standout Amenity: Award-Winning Spa
Nestled in the Hudson Valley and surrounded by 40,000 acres of forest and wildlife, Mohonk Mountain House is one of the most beautiful and scenic destinations in America. The hotel sits on a cliffside overlooking Lake Mohonk itself, and its accommodations all feature dazzling vistas of this scenic region. In addition to the spectacular views, this National Historic Landmark resort boasts incredible farm-to-table cuisine, an award-winning spa, and an abundance of on-site outdoor recreation, for an all-inclusive retreat that will stand out as one of the best of your life. It's no wonder why Mohonk Mountain House is one of the best resorts in the USA.
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The Ranch at Rock Creek, 79 Carriage House Ln, Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA
- Address: 79 Carriage House Ln, Philipsburg, MT 59858
- Standout Amenity: Year-round activities program
The Ranch at Rock Creek will challenge any preconceptions of what you think a "ranch" actually is. Set among 10 square miles of rugged Montana ranch land, The Ranch at Rock Creek has the distinction of being the world's first Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star guest ranch. This spectacular, all-inclusive retreat brings together luxurious, upscale amenities and rustic ranch charm for a truly extraordinary experience. Guests can curate their experience to their own specifications; The Ranch offers more than 30 outdoor recreational activities, 29 unique accommodations featuring four different styles (lodge rooms, canvas "glamping" cabins, a historic barn, and luxury homes), farm-to-table fare, and a full-service spa.
Little St. Simons Island, 201 Croft Ln, St Simons Island, GA 31522, USA
- Address: 201 Croft Ln, St Simons Island, GA 31522
- Standout Amenity: Naturalist-guided excursions
The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island is as exclusive as it gets; this destination resort can be only reached via boat and host a maximum of 32 guests at a time. Built in 1917 as a private hunting lodge, it opened to the public in the late 1970s. You’re in for the VIP treatment while staying on this private island, from fine dining that includes fresh-caught seafood and farm-to-table fare, to exquisite accommodations with the option of even renting the entire island for your party. In terms of recreation, the property is situated within a 10,000-acre sanctuary that offers amazing bird watching, fishing, boating, and hiking that's sure to please any outdoor enthusiast. At its core, however, The Lodge is a secluded and scenic retreat that will fill your heart and lift your spirits. You'll absolutely love The Lodge, one of the best resorts in the US.
Remote Resorts In The U.S.
452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031, USA
- Address: 452 Royalton Turnpike, Barnard, VT 05031
- Standout Amenity: Chef-created picnics
Romantic and beguiling, Twin Farms is situated on 300 acres of bucolic Vermont countryside. Originally the home of Nobel Prize-winning author Sinclair Lewis and journalist Dorothy Thompson, today, the property retains its historical integrity and charms. Activities on this winsome farm estate include bee tours, mountain biking, fly fishing, and, in the winter, cross-country skiing and outdoor ice skating. After an invigorating day in nature, you'll retire to one of the property's private cottages, farmhouse suites, or guest rooms, all of which offer an experience that's pure hygge.
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Lake Austin Spa Resort, 1705 S Quinlan Park Rd, Austin, TX 78732, USA
- Address: 1705 S Quinlan Park Rd, Austin, TX 78732
- Standout Amenity: Sundown Wine Cruise
Nestled in the quiet serenity of Texas Hill Country, this all-inclusive waterfront oasis offers a true sanctuary for rest, renewal, and reinvention. It's incredible to believe this destination is only 20 miles from downtown Austin, as it feels like a whole other world. A portrait of refined simplicity, Lake Austin Spa Resort truly is a place for renewal and rebirth. This small retreat -- the resort has just 40 rooms -- prioritizes health and wellness, with a conscientious cuisine, full calendar of fitness and holistic programming, and utterly breathtaking views that will fill your soul.
Southwest Brasada Ranch Road, SW Brasada Ranch Rd, Oregon 97753, USA
- Address: SW Brasada Ranch Rd, Oregon 97753
- Standout Amenity: Golf simulator
Oregon's pioneer spirit is celebrated at Brasada Ranch, a breathtakingly beautiful resort located on 1,800 acres of stunning high desert terrain rimmed by distant mountain peaks. This Oregon resort has accrued countless accolades, including a top spot on Conde Nast Traveler's prestigious "Best Resorts in the Pacific Northwest" list. This resort invites guests to come and experience the beauty and luxuries of the ranch, including equestrian trail rides through the idyllic hills, spectacular hiking, world-class golf, seasonal farm-to-table dining, and a full menu of spa services. The panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and High Desert are unrivaled, and we guarantee you'll never forget your visit to this wondrous Oregon resort.
525 Boynton Canyon Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336, USA
- Address: 525 Boynton Canyon Rd, Sedona, AZ 86336
- Standout Amenity: 18-Hole Golf Course & Striking Views
Tucked away in the famous Red Rocks of Sedona, the aptly named Enchantment Resort is like stepping into another world. Not only will you have jaw-dropping views of Sedona's iconic natural landscape, but you'll experience luxury at its finest. As a guest, you'll have access to a spa, an on-site restaurant, and the surrounding wilderness. Discover why this is one of the best resorts in the United States.
Unique Resorts In The U.S.
2173 MA-28, Harwich, MA 02645, USA
- Address: 2173 MA-28, Harwich, MA 02645
- Standout Amenity: Seaside dining
You'll never forget a stay at -- no one ever does. With sweeping views of Pleasant Bay, several on-site restaurants, an outdoor pool, a golf course, and a private beach, you'll experience luxury and relaxation at its finest. Accommodations include your choice of a suite, a villa, or a cottage but you'll find each one well-appointed.
9001 W Sand Hill Rd, Galena, IL 61036, USA
- Address: 9001 W Sand Hill Rd, Galena, IL 61036
- Standout Amenity: On-site spa
Located on the outskirts of Illinois' most charming small town of Galena, the Goldmoor Inn is a luxurious estate overlooking the Mississippi River. The property is ever-so-scenic with a surrounding forest and beautifully manicured gardens. Each private suite and cabin offers a whirlpool tub, perfect to relax and unwind. There is an on-site spa and a gourmet breakfast is served each morning.
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Grand View Lodge, Nokomis Avenue, Nisswa, MN, USA
- Address: Nokomis Avenue, Nisswa, MN
- Standout Amenity: Pines Golf Course
One of the most unforgettable vacations you can take in the country is in winsome Minnesota. Grand View Lodge is a picture-perfect retreat overlooking Minnesota's beguiling Gull Lake. The recipient of numerous awards and accolades, Grand View Lodge also wins the "well-rounded" category. This resort is 750 acres of lush pine forest with more than 2,500 feet of soft, sand shoreline; it boasts an abundance of recreation sure to please any outdoor enthusiast; it's home to an acclaimed spa, renowned restaurants, and championship golf courses; and has some of the most luxurious and comfortable accommodations in the country.
Grand Hotel, 286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI 49757, USA
- Address: 286 Grand Ave, Mackinac Island, MI 49757
- Standout Amenity: Outdoor swimming pool with bar
An iconic American resort since 1887, Mackinac Island's Grand Hotel is a dreamy and distinguished Midwest destination. This National Historic Landmark and Historic Hotels of America "Best Historic Resort" is located on Mackinac Island, a postcard-perfect Michigan isle where cars are not allowed and bikes and horse-drawn carriages line the streets. The hotel itself is exquisite; a mix of Victorian-era architecture and modern-day luxuries that feel both indulgent and special. This destination resort features a spectacular swimming pool, prestigious golf course, and delicious on-site dining options, all on the enchanting and magical Mackinac Island. You'll surely fall in love with the Grand Hotel as it's one of the best US resorts.
Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, MO 65739, USA
- Address: Ridgedale, MO 65739
- Standout Amenity: Cedar Creek Spa
Nestled high atop the Missouri Ozarks, overlooking the beguiling Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge is a vision. With inviting accommodations, spectacular restaurants, two full-service marinas, five golf courses, an acclaimed spa, and abundant outdoor recreation, Big Cedar Lodge is a world-class resort in the magnificent Missouri wilds.
One of the things that makes the U.S. so wonderful is how very diverse it is. Each state has its own climate, geography, and identity, and is full of so much hidden wonder and potential. This is evidenced in the list above; no matter which of these best resorts in the USA you decide to visit, your experience will most definitely be unrivaled, unexpected, and completely unforgettable.
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More to Explore
Best Resorts In The USA
Melissa M.|May 14, 2023
Are there any all-inclusive resorts in the U.S.?
Yes, there are all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. Among the best are:
- The Clement Hotel in Palo Alto, California offers a luxurious all-inclusive stay. And each room is so comfortable you’ll feel at home.
- Alaska SeaScape Lodge in Kenai, Alaska is a five-star getaway that offers fishing trips and fine dining.
- Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona is a wellness resort that tailors the experience to your wellness goals.
What are the best resorts in the U.S. for couples?
The best resorts in the U.S. for couples include:
- Goldmoor Inn in Galena, Illinois is considered one of the most romantic getaway destinations in the state.
- Meadowood Napa Valley in St. Helena, California offers plenty of privacy yet a number of activities and ways to unwind and relax with your significant other.
- Amangiri in Canyon Point, Utah is a remote escape in the state’s red rock country. Between the surrounding beauty, the luxurious accommodations, and fine dining, romance is certainly in the air!
What are the best resorts in the U.S. for families?
The best resorts in the U.S. for families include:
- Great Wolf Lodge which has several locations around the USA. With amenities like themed rooms, an epic waterpark, an arcade, and many other activities, this is an ideal family-friendly getaway.
- The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch in Saratoga, Wyoming offers family-friendly activities that any member of the family can enjoy. From ATV rides to horseback riding, paintball, and more, you’ll have an unforgettable family vacation here!
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