Nothing says summer vacation quite like a coastal U.S. hotel with Americana-inspired décor and an endless list of outdoor activities. Whether you are dreaming of fun-filled days spent on the beach or cool breezes and mountain hikes, there are plenty of beautiful U.S. resorts that have provided generations of travelers with summer memories that last a lifetime.
As members of Historic Hotels of America, these tradition-steeped properties check all the boxes for an epic warm-weather getaway — with elegant accommodations, delicious cuisine, a scenic setting, and plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. So, whether you are traveling solo, or with a partner, friends, or family, consider escaping to one of these 5 classic all-American resorts that deliver incredible summer experiences every year.
The Omni Homestead Resort (Hot Springs, Virginia)
This legendary summer retreat in the Allegheny Mountains of Virginia claims to be "the birthplace of Southern hospitality," according to its website. The Omni Homestead pre-dates the United States by a decade — it was built in 1766 — and has served as a gathering place for generations of Americans since. The property is brimming with activity in the summer as travelers of all ages flock here for its hot springs and abundance of outdoor activities, including horseback riding, hiking, shooting, fly fishing, swimming (the property has its own water park), and golfing.
Hotel del Coronado (Coronado, California)
The legendary oceanfront Hotel del Coronado has welcomed generations of beach-loving guests, including countless celebrities and U.S. presidents, during its 130-year-old history. This sprawling beach resort in San Diego Bay was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and continues to deliver the very best of Southern California's coastal lifestyle. The property's storied past elegantly blends with contemporary luxury in its 902 guest rooms. Relax and enjoy the beautiful views at Del Beach, take a surf lesson, or lounge poolside in a private cabana. In the evening, catch the sunset with a handcrafted cocktail and roast s'mores around a beach bonfire. An interactive tide pool and a new kids' club launching in May will turn Hotel del Coronado into the ultimate family-friendly summer retreat.
Chatham Bars Inn (Cape Cod, Massachusetts)
With its sun-drenched beaches and idyllic villages, Cape Cod is the quintessential New England summer destination. Located at the heart of quaint Chatham, Chatham Inn is the oldest operating inn on Cape Cod, having opened its doors in 1890. It is also the only Relais & Châteaux property in the area. The 18-room, adults-only resort blends New England charm with modern amenities. The boutique hotel is a short walk from Lighthouse Beach, and in the evening, you can nestle into an Adirondack chair around the hotel's cozy fire pit and enjoy a glass of wine.
Grand Hotel (Mackinac Island, Michigan)
Dubbed "America's Summer Place," Grand Hotel has been welcoming families to the shores of Mackinac Island since 1887. The building, a National Historic Landmark, still holds the record for the longest porch in the world (660 feet, to be exact) and overlooks the idyllic Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. The property's 397 rooms are all decorated differently, so each visit here is unique. The long list of activities on property includes golf, swimming, biking, horseback riding, bocce ball, croquet, and tennis. In the afternoon, head to the hotel's parlor for tea — a Grand Hotel tradition for more than 125 years. And don't forget to taste the resort's signature summer dessert — vanilla ice cream balls rolled in toasted pecans and served with warm fudge sauce.
The Broadmoor (Colorado Springs, Colorado)
Known as the Grande Dame of the Rockies, The Broadmoor was built in 1865 and quickly became one of the premier year-round destinations in the West. Its luxury amenities and impeccable service still attract seasoned travelers from around the country. With three championship golf courses, an outdoor infinity pool, a celebrated tennis program, archery, lawn games, and pickleball courts, summer vacations at The Broadmoor are memorable and supremely relaxing.
Read the full arcticle from Travel + Leisure here.
About Historic Hotels of America®
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest Historic Hotels. Historic Hotels of America has more than 300 historic hotels. These historic hotels have all faithfully maintained their authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity in the United States of America, including 44 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Historic Hotels of America is comprised of mostly independently owned and operated historic hotels. More than 30 of the world’s finest hospitality brands, chains, and collections are represented in Historic Hotels of America. To be nominated and selected for membership into this prestigious program, a hotel must be at least 50 years old; has been designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as a National Historic Landmark or listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places; and recognized as having historic significance.