The Best Hotel in Every State

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Lodging throughout the United States is as varied as the states themselves. Historic mansions, trendy museum hotels and comfortable B&Bs are among the offerings. Take a look at some of the hotels recommended by top travel critics throughout the country when you are dreaming up your next trip.

Alabama: Grand Hotel Marriott Resort Golf Club & Spa

Marriott / Money Talks News

Guests rave on TripAdvisor about the spacious, comfortable rooms, staff responsiveness and world-class golf and spa facilities at Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa at Point Clear on Alabama’s Gulf Coast. History buffs will also find Civil War landmarks steps away. Little wonder Travel + Leisure listed it as the best hotel in the state.

Alaska: Ultima Thule Lodge

Arturo Polo_Ena/ Ultima Thule Lodge, Chitina, Alaska / Money Talks News

National Geographic Traveler, Forbes, Outside and other major travel magazines rave about Ultima Thule Lodge’s luxurious cabins, abundant vegetation and plentiful outdoor adventures. But don’t think you can just swing by to look at it. The lodge is in Chitina, a six-hour drive from Anchorage and then an additional 90-minute flight into the Wrangell-St. Elias Wilderness, wrote Ann Abel of Forbes, who hailed its “homespun but undeniably luxurious” appeal while calling it “possibly the most isolated lodge anywhere.”

Arizona: Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North

Four Seasons Resort & Spa / Money Talks News

It’s easy to understand why Travel + Leisure named the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North the best hotel in Arizona and one of the best in the world. Luxurious rooms, a world-class spa and golf course, lush cacti and greenery and plenty of star-gazing opportunities, including telescopes in many suites, are among the many features that make guests feel like royalty.

Arkansas: Little Rock Marriott

Marriott.com / Money Talks News

Travel + Leisure magazine’s reported that its readers voted the Little Rock Marriott the best hotel in Arkansas. Redesigned, stylish guest rooms with scenic views, late-night room service and a convenient downtown location are among the pluses travelers love.

California: Beverly Wilshire at Beverly Hills

Four Seasons Resort / Money Talks News

California has a crowded field of hotels with “best of” ratings, but perhaps none have more rave reviews and awards than the historic Beverly Wilshire — a Four Seasons hotel in Beverly Hills. “Best Penthouse,” “Best Suite” and “Best Hotel” are just some of the World Travel Awards bestowed upon it.

Colorado: The Little Nell

The Little Nell / Money Talks News

Forbes bestowed its much-coveted Five-Star rating on The Little Nell — and even that superlative might not do the Aspen-based property justice. An $18 million renovation made this ski-in, ski-out destination one of the best hotels in the world with the finest art, food, wine and, yes, accommodations. As U.S. News & World Report notes, given the myriad outdoor activities — made easier with the help of a ski concierge — many guests don’t spend much time in their rooms. When they do, they are treated to well-stocked mini bars, LCD TVs and so much more.

Connecticut: Delamar Greenwich Harbor

The Delamar at Greenwich / Money Talks News

Travel + Leisure is among the reviewers that give the Delamar Greenwich Harbor superb marks. Marble bathrooms, wrought-iron balconies and other high-end touches ensure guests at the 82-room waterfront hotel at Greenwich, Connecticut, enjoy the best in luxury.

Delaware: Boardwalk Plaza Hotel

Boardwalk Plaza Hotel / Money Talks News

U.S. News & World Report ranked Boardwalk Plaza Hotel at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, top in that state. Reviewers noted its versatility. Yes, it’s great for families, but there are elements that lend themselves to romance including wrought-iron canopies, glass elevators and Victorian-era decor in the lobby.

Florida: Fontainebleau

Hotel Fountain Bleu / Money Talks News

Even before this hotel’s $1 billion renovation, travel experts raved about the classic Fontainebleau in Miami. Fodor’s praised the hotel’s 1,500 elegant rooms (including 658 suites), 12 restaurants and posh spa as a world unto itself. The hotel is so spectacular, it’s easy to miss the iconic beach right outside its door.

Georgia: Sea Island Resort

William Torrillo /Lodge at Sea Island / Money Talks News

Travels writers at the New York Times, House Beautiful.com and Travel + Leisure are among those that rave about the Southern charm and posh-modern luxury at Sea Island Resort. The multiyear winner of Five-Star ratings from Forbes is a perfect destination for families, couples and friends.

Hawaii: Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Four Seasons / Money Talks News

Fodor’s sums up the appeal of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea with the phrases “impeccably stylish,” “extravagant” and “relaxing.” Four Seasons has a host of elegant properties but perhaps none quite as exquisite as this one, with poolside cabanas, elegant landscaping and posh rooms. Twice-daily housekeeping and 24-hour room service are among the other perks reviewers love.

Idaho: Sun Valley Lodge

Courtesy of Sun Valley Resort / Money Talks News

Forbes named Sun Valley Lodge one of the 10 best resorts in the world. As America’s first destination ski resort it has been the choice of an array of celebrities ranging from Marilyn Monroe to Bill Gates. The lodge is nothing if not posh, especially since a major renovation that doubled the size of guest rooms. The 94 rooms — there were previously 148 — have every luxury imaginable, just like A-listers demand.

Illinois: Trump International Hotel

Trump Hotels Chicago / Money Talks News

Whatever you may think of President Donald Trump, his hotel in Chicago is the best in the state of Illinois, according to Travel + Leisure. Trump International Hotel in Chicago, next to the Chicago River, offers breathtaking views and high-end elegance plus an unrivaled spa.

Indiana: French Lick Resort

French Lick / Money Talks New

Nestled in the hills of Hoosier National Forest, French Lick Resort in French Lick, Indiana, is one of America’s finest hotels, as evidenced by its numerous travel awards. The historic hotel was once called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” according to Travel + Leisure, due to its focal point — an atrium spanning 200 feet. The magazine named it the best hotel in the state and one of the Top 5 in the Midwest, calling it a true luxury destination.

Iowa: Hotel Blackhawk

Hotel Blackhawk / Money Talks News

Hotel Blackhawk in Davenport, an Autograph Collection Hotel within the Marriott group. bills itself as “Hip and Historic.” One of the designated “Historic Hotels of America,” it just celebrated 100 years but also boasts such hipster fun as a bowling alley and local art. Travel + Leisure magazine named it the best hotel in the state.

Kansas: Hyatt Regency Wichita

Hyatt Regency Wichita / Money Talks News

The Hyatt Regency Wichita scored top points from Fodor’s for its just-refreshed guest and public rooms that boast modern, efficient luxury. The hotel, with views of the Arkansas River and downtown skyline has plenty of extras including a farm-to-table menu, heated lap pool and 24-hour fitness center.

Kentucky: The Seelbach Hilton

Seelbach Hilton / Money Talks News

Literary types might recall the Seelbach Hilton in Louisville as the setting for a wedding in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby,” as well as in film adaptations of the famous novel. The Seelbach, which has hosted seven presidents, boasts marble bathrooms and antique reproduction furniture. It is steeped in historical elegance, but U.S. News & World Report also gives it top marks for its modern-day amenities.

Louisiana: The Roosevelt New Orleans

The Roosevelt / Money Talks News

Fodor’s doesn’t often use the word “exquisite” in its reviews, but they do when reviewing The Roosevelt New Orleans. The Waldorf Astoria hotel has risen from the horror of Hurricane Katrina to reclaim its exquisite style, luxury and comfort. A glittering lobby, beautifully appointed guest rooms and legendary dining equals the finest lodging experience.

Maine: Captain Lord Mansion

Rick Litchfield / Captain Lord Mansion / Money Talks News

Conde Nast Traveler and U.S. News & World Report are among the many prestigious publications that heap praise on the family-owned, 20-room Captain Lord Mansion in Kennebunkport. Distinctive architecture, lovingly restored rooms, a day spa and an always-on-point staff are among the features that consistently win raves.

Maryland: MGM National Harbor

Stephen Wilkes / MGM National Harbor / Money Talks News

The MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C., offers a taste of Las Vegas glamour with posh gaming, shopping and dining. The Washington Post gave the recently opened hotel kudos for its elegant casino, high-end celebrity chef restaurants and luxury shops. Guests can choose from among a variety of handsomely appointed suites and rooms.

Massachusetts: Boston Harbor Hotel

Boston Harbor Hotel / Money Talks News

Boston Harbor Hotel offers the finest of old-world charm with modern luxury. The award-winning property on historic Rowes Wharf was hailed in Travel + Leisure for its architecture, which includes a magnificent archway and domed rotunda. The modern guest rooms are appointed with handcrafted teak furniture and historic maps, and the hotel boasts a 34-slip marina.

Michigan: MGM Grand Detroit

MGM Grand Detroit / Money Talks News

Like its sister hotels, the MGM Grand Detroit brings a touch of Las Vegas to Motor City. Travel + Leisure says the resort’s rooms are each a “pristine sanctuary.” Celebrity-chef run restaurants, a mammoth casino and shopping will suit gamblers and non-gamblers.

Minnesota: Loews Minneapolis Hotel

Loews Minneapolis / Money Talks News

U.S. News & World Report named Loews Minneapolis Hotel the top hotel in the state. Modern decor, an eager-to-please staff and contemporary guest rooms with much appreciated extras such as flat-screen TVs and leather ergonomic chairs make this hotel a standout.

Mississippi: Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens

Monmouth Historic Inn / Money Talks News

Monmouth Historic Inn and Gardens in Natchez is an early 19th-century antebellum mansion that offers all the charm of the old South with modern amenities and cuisine. The inn has rightfully earned a plethora of awards, honors and kudos from an array of industry professionals including Southern Living for its exceptional offerings, including lush gardens, nightly turn-down service, elegant furnishings and complimentary cocktail-hour hors d’oeuvres and full-on Southern breakfasts.

Missouri: Chateau on the Lake

Chateau on the Lake Resort / Money Talks News

Chateau on the Lake Resort, Spa and Convention Center in Branson offers its guests lovely views of Table Rock Lake, posh accommodations and top amenities and activities, reports Fodor’s. Don’t let its imposing exterior fool you — there are plenty of activities for kids including a designated playroom, pool and movie theater.

Montana: The Ranch at Rock Creek

Ranch at Rock Creek / Money Talks News

The Ranch at Rock Creek near Philipsburg, Montana, offers the best in “glamping” — you know, “glamorous camping” — reports Departures magazine. But fear not: In addition to “Canvas Cabins,” the guest ranch also has one-of-a kind luxury homes and beautifully appointed rooms for those who are more into glamour — minus the camping. The more indoor-inclined will find plenty to do at the ranch, which has a world-class spa and various dining options.

Nebraska: Hotel Deco XV

Hotel Deco XV / Money Talks News

Hotel Deco XV in Omaha is an oasis of contemporary elegance and warm hospitality, reports U.S. News & World Report. Coffee service in the lobby, free transportation within three miles of the downtown hotel and free Wi-Fi in its upscale accommodations show that even luxury can be warm and comfortable.

Nevada: Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas / Money Talks News

Four Seasons Hotel Las Vegas received major kudos from U.S. News & World Report for its quiet elegance and family friendliness in a gaming-free refuge from the Las Vegas strip. The hotel bathes its guests in luxurious rooms with pop art, satin fabrics and fully stocked mini bars.

New Hampshire: Wentworth by the Sea

Wentworth by the Sea / Money Talks News

Wentworth by the Sea, a Marriott Hotel & Spa on New Castle Island, received top praise from reviewers at Fodor’s, who asked (rhetorically): “What’s not to love?” The historic property built in 1874, a long-time playground to the well-known and well-heeled, boasts huge suites, ocean and harbor views and lush amenities.

New Jersey: Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson

Hyatt Regency Jersey City / Money Talks News

Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson, is all about luxury on waterfront property. Guest rooms are large and furnished in contemporary style and massive windows provide gorgeous views, according to U.S. News & World Report. There are a host of amenities including iPod docking stations, wet bars and fine dining.

New Mexico: Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa

Hyatt Regency Tamaya Resort / Money Talks News

Hyatt-Regency Tamaya Resort and Spa in central New Mexico boasts a luxurious, tranquil vibe with a variety of options, reports U.S. News & World Report. A world-class spa and salon, finely appointed guest rooms and fine dining are nestled in an Pueblo-style environment. A jewel in the desert, the resort was created by the Santa Ana Pueblo tribe to showcase its ancient culture and traditions.

New York: Waldorf Astoria

Waldorf Astoria / Money Talks News

In a city full of elegance, the Waldorf Astoria truly stands out. The midtown Manhattan hotel, which will close in March for renovations, blends old-world charm with modern luxury, reports U.S. News & World Report. The lobby is grand and the guest rooms — with marble baths and flat screens — are comfortable. The renovation should ensure this storied hotel remains as prestigious as its history.

North Carolina: The Omni Grove Park Inn

Omni Grove Park Inn / Money Talks News

The Omni Grove Park Inn in Asheville is one of the most storied hotels in the South. Built in 1913, the hotel has hosted such figures as Henry Ford, F. Scott Fitzgerald and 10 U.S. presidents. Furnished with oak antiques in the Arts & Crafts style and lobby fireplaces the size of cars, the hotel exudes luxury, reports Fodor’s Travel. Enjoy a round of golf on the mountainside course or other athletic pursuits at its sports complex before trying one of its flock of restaurants.

North Dakota: Hotel Donaldson

Hotel Donaldson / Money Talks News

Hotel Donaldson in the revitalized downtown of Fargo always tops reviewers “best-of” lists. Art-inspired rooms, comfortable rooms and appointments, and artisan cuisine are just some of the ways the hotel mixes posh hospitality with local flavor. Travel + Leisure chose it as the top hotel in the state.

Ohio: 21C Museum Hotel

21C Museum Hotel / Money Talks News

21C Museum Hotel in Cincinnati was named No. 1 hotel in the Midwest by Conde Nast Traveler. The boutique hotel chain helps breathe life and art into unexpected neighborhoods, according to Forbes. This property has a fine spa, world-class food, a contemporary art museum rich accommodations, Forbes notes.

Oklahoma: The Skirvin Hilton

Skirvin Hilton / Money Talks News

Historically modern is how Hilton bills the Skirvin Hilton. Fine accommodations include spacious rooms, fine dining and plush bedding. Elegant touches such as an “artist in residence,” consistently wins this Oklahoma City property kudos from U.S. News & World Report and others.

Oregon: The Allison Inn & Spa

The Allison Inn & Spa / Money Talks News

The Allison Inn & Spa in the heart of Oregon wine country has all of the extras one might find at a select retreat. Yoga in the garden, fine wines (of course!) and sophisticated, yet comfortable guest rooms are some of the reasons Business Insider named the Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg its top hotel pick for the state.

Pennsylvania: The Rittenhouse

The Rittenhouse / Money Talks News

The Rittenhouse in Philadelphia is as ideal for a business meeting as it is for a spa weekend. The wood-and-leather decor of this hotel underscores the feeling of old-world charm meeting contemporary luxury. Superb service, roomy accommodations and other features made it a top pick by Conde Nast Traveler.

Rhode Island: The Chanler at Cliff Walk

The Chanler / Money Talks News

The Chanler at Cliff Walk in Newport is described as a private, waterfront oasis with manicured gardens and such extras as house cars that compelled Travel + Leisure to name it one of the top New England inns.

South Carolina: Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort

Omni Hilton Head / Money Talks News

Omni Hilton Head is an island paradise with posh accommodations, three pools, two hot tubs and even an 11-mile lagoon system for kayaking and canoeing. Those are just some of the reasons Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler and others give it the highest marks.

South Dakota: Custer State Park Resort

Custer State Park Resort / Money Talks News

Custer State Park Resort boasts lodges, cabins and plentiful food options tucked among open-range wildlife 25 miles south of Rapid City. Travel + Leisure gives high marks to the resort snuggled in a picture-perfect mountain valley that offers an array of outdoor activity options.

Tennessee: The Hermitage Hotel

Hermitage Hotel / Money Talks News

The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville offers opulent luxury and high-quality service. It is the only Tennessee hotel that has earned Forbes Five-Star and AAA Five-Diamond ratings. Since its opening in 1910, the hotel’s name has been synonymous with luxury. Forbes cites its “magnificent lobby with vaulted stained-glass ceilings and arches decorated with frescoes and intricate stonework,” spacious, luxuriously appointed guest rooms and world-class cuisine as just a few of its offerings.

Texas: Hilton Americas-Houston

Hilton Americas, Houston / Money Talks News

The Hilton Americas-Houston is great for business but also ideal for families thanks to its in-room mini fridges, free HBO, oversized living areas and more, report many reviewers including Family Vacation Critic. The hotel in the heart of the city near the George R. Brown Convention Center is steps away from attractions including Minute Maid Park, home of the Houston Astros.

Utah: The Waldorf Astoria Park City

Waldorf Astoria, Park City / Money Talks News

Waldorf Astoria Park City is a paradise within the paradise of Park City Resort, the nation’s largest ski and snowboard resort, just an on-site gondola’s ride away. World-class dining, guest rooms, public spaces, activities and more keep the hotel at the Wasatch Mountain resort at the top of lists by U.S. News & World Report and other travel experts.

Vermont: Woodstock Inn and Resort

Woodstock Inn & Resort / Money Talks News

Elegance is the first word that comes to mind when viewing the Woodstock Inn & Resort. Equally suitable for a wedding or family getaway, the resort’s guest rooms boast wood and plush fabric touches and amenities such as Keurig coffeemakers, earning it praise from U.S. News & World Report and other travel professionals.

Virginia: The Omni Homestead Resort

The Omni Homestead Resort / Money Talks News

The Omni Homestead Resort at Hot Springs has offered luxurious Southern hospitality to 23 U.S. presidents and countless other VIPs. Deluxe amenities that win critical raves include feather beds, working fireplaces and an on-site movie theater, reports U.S. News & World Report.

Washington: Four Seasons Hotel

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The Washington Four Seasons Hotel Seattle blends luxury with a picturesque outdoor setting. Lobby walls made of volcanic basalt and reclaimed redwood, world-class dining and deluxe guests rooms are among the luxurious features that keep it on critics “best of” lists, reports U.S. News & World Report.

West Virginia: The Greenbrier

The Greenbrier Hotel & Resort / Money Talks News

The Greenbrier in White Sulphur Springs has welcomed guests to its stately hotel and vibrant grounds since 1778. Travel + Leisure hails its lavish antebellum air,and U.S. News & World Report commends its combination of historic grandeur mixed with comfort.

Wisconsin: The American Club

The American Club / Money Talks News

The American Club hotel in the village of Kohler wins kudos from a host of critics ranging from the Milwaukee-Wisconsin Journal Sentinel to U.S. News & World Report. Lovingly appointed rooms, a spacious sports facility and world-class dining are among the high points of the premiere resort that saw its beginnings as housing for workers for the kitchen and bath fixtures company at the start of the last century.

Wyoming: Four Seasons Resort and Residences

Four Seasons Jackson Hole / Money Talks News

The Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Jackson Hole offers all the elegance you’d expect from the brand name set in that breathtaking mountain resort area. The sprawling resort features outdoor whirlpools, an in-house spa and cozy luxury made even more comfortable by duvets and fine furnishings with modern convenience, reports U.S. News & World Report.

Which of these elegant hotels would you choose if you were going first-class? Share with us in comments below or on our Facebook page.

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