Hotels in United States

"It's like a comfortable bed,you get in and never want to leave." This hotel built with redwood, Douglas fir, and sand-stone sits on a butte and has views of the Snake River Range: "The location is as spectacular as it gets." Rooms come with platform beds and rough slate countertops. "Everything was superb, from the oatmeal in the morning to the nuts that came with my Beefeater and tonic in the evening." The Grill Restaurant, with a central wood-burning fireplace, serves lobster fritters and a white peach and ice cream champagne float.

40 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa, Tennis

Opened in 2003 in a former fruit canners warehouse, it has "a great Fisherman's Wharf location" near Ghirardelli Square and the cable car turnaround. The nautical theme suits the 1900s architecture, exposed brick, and fir beams in rooms, which are equipped with high-speed Internet access. The Blue Mermaid serves seafood and chowders, but "it's noisy, and the food is nothing special."

252 rooms

"The grounds are so lush" at this bougainvillea- and cactus-landscaped pink hotel near the University of Arizona that "it's hard to believe you're in the middle of the desert." Carpenters and master craftsmen work on-site to create reproduction furniture to complement antique pieces in the individually decorated rooms. The Audubon Bar, with an outdoor patio by the main garden, has hand-painted murals and a pianist who plays nightly.

89 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Tennis

"You could mistake this inn for someplace in Europe." Set amid a 33-acre olive grove, it started out as a restaurant. Each suite has handmade-tile floors, abstract paintings, and a refrigerator stocked with regional wines and cheeses. Enjoy "extremely nice staff" and, at the restaurant, "phenomenal wine-country cuisine" with French-Mediterranean influences.

52 suites

Amenities: Tennis, Pool, Spa

This two-winged 1928 Italian Renaissance-style mainstay at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard has "service that makes you feel at home." The recent $35 million renovation updated contemporary rooms with 42-inch flat-screen TVs and butter-leather headboards and added a spa, a pool, and a fitness center. In June 2006, Cut, the Wolfgang Puck steak house, opened.

395 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Meals at this 1930's former country house in the Smoky Mountains' foothills are "an unforgettable culinary experience"; dishes include North Carolina trout and coffee-rubbed Kentucky bison prepared with herbs from the garden and served with artisanal wines. Rooms, in five buildings, have hickory chairs and double vanities. The property will soon have a farmstead with new suites, a creamery, a honey house, and a general store.

51 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa, Tennis

Steps from the New England Aquarium and the Children's Museum, this hotel on Rowes Wharf is "very kid-friendly,we all felt welcome." Rooms in different geographical themes have marble bathrooms, full vanities, and "beautiful views of the harbor's boats." At Meritage, the seasonal fare uses Kobe beef, Nantucket scallops, and Vermont pheasant.

230 rooms

Amenities: Spa

Located in the wine country of the upper Napa Valley, this "truly rustic yet luxurious outpost" incorporates the woodlands of its canyon location into its design. The buildings are connected by bridges and decks and "seem to hover above the ground." Rough-hewn wood posts and dry-stacked stone "make the outside unprepossessing, but it's so refined inside": Rooms have handwoven chenille and Tibetan wool carpets. Local ingredients star in the modern California cuisine at The Lakehouse. Try a haiku session in the woods.

46 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

"You can't beat the location" of this Union Square hotel that marries two early-twentieth-century buildings. Rooms with handblown glass lamps and cinnamon throw blankets are "well appointed but not large." The Restaurant serves modern French cuisine with Mediterranean influences in a room with cream, gold, and dark chocolate hues and works by Bay Area artists.

110 rooms

"It's close to the ocean and the Monterey aquarium and a few hours from San Fran" (hence the perfect Location score). "What more could you want?" Meander along trellised walkways on the "beautifully designed grounds" at this former private home with "a Spanish feel." All rooms have wood-burning fireplaces, and ground-floor accommodations have private patios with whirlpool baths. Herb-poached salmon and crispy calamari are on the menu at Stillwater Bar & Grill.

24 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

With "a prime location" in the historic district, this 20-year-old property mimics a seventeenth-century Italian residence: It has a double staircase, a 12-foot crystal chandelier, and reproduction period furnishings. Guest room decor includes tapestries, lace, and the best accommodations have harbor views. Afternoon tea of scones, lemon tarts, and imported tea is "a highlight."

440 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Built on a mountain ridge near Scottsdale with "spectacular valley and mountain views," this 1999 adobe property is "perfectly situated for hiking trips." The grounds are filled with flowers and sage bushes, while rooms feature hand-made Italian furniture, fireplaces, bathrooms with oversized tubs, and private terraces. Alchemy serves New American cuisine. Spa treatments make use of local clay and amethyst.

40 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

Near the Magic Kingdom, this Victorian lakefront resort is in "a prime location." Red gabled roofs contrast with the white facade, and rooms have light woods, marble sinks, wooden moldings, and, in most cases, two queen-size beds and a daybed. At 1900 Park Fare, "the buffet food is not exactly memorable," but Disney characters wander among the tables.

867 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

"From the moment you walk in, theres a warmth about the place," says one guest of this resort built on an 1880s homestead. Views of surrounding Boynton Canyon add to the "overwhelming feeling of serenity." Beehive fireplaces epitomize the Southwestern room decor throughout the scattered casitas. Mii Amo Cafe focuses on spa cuisine. "I've been dying to go back since the moment I left."

220 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

"It's a grand old hotel that's still grand,the woods gleam, the brass railings shine, and the furniture is in mint condition." This downtown brick and terra-cotta Italian Rennaisance tower has a recently renovated lobby with delicate woodwork; rooms in soft neutrals "give you the feeling of being at home." The Georgian, with 20-foot Palladian windows, serves French-inspired Pacific Northwest cuisine. "Staff are always extremely helpful."

450 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This 1903 ten-story Beaux Arts building in Beacon Hill once housed the Boston School Committee. Today, the original elements such as the cage elevator are incorporated into the "modern yet comfortable design." Rooms in black, tan, and white have artwork and canopy beds. At the Federalist Bar, order the Fed Burger,black Angus sirloin, aged Vermont cheddar, and caramelized onions.

60 rooms

"Personable staff treat everyone like a VIP" at this 1987 Town Lake hotel with wildflower gardens. Warm colors and classical furnishings will soon be joined by flat-screen TVs as part of the rooms' upgrade. Outdoors, guests frolic in the saltwater pool or unwind on the lawn in the shade of the live oaks. On the cocktail menu at the Lobby Lounge is the Rita Suprema, a $95 margarita. The spa will be expanded in the summer of 2007.

291 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Overlooking a wildlife preserve and the Pacific, this ten-year-old golf resort on "200 beautifully manicured acres" comprises a series of low-rise Spanish colonial buildings. "Impeccably decorated rooms" in blue, melon, and rose hues have bathrooms with double vanities. "The service couldn't have been better,everyone bent over backwards to accommodate us." Indoor and outdoor seating is available at California Bistro.

329 rooms

Amenities: Tennis, Pool, Spa, Golf

"The expansive gardens make you feel like you have the whole place to yourself." Opened in 1927, this Spanish colonial resort between the Pacific and the Santa Ynez Mountains is concluding a $225 million renovation that added the restaurant Bella Vista, a 10,000-square-foot spa, and an improved rose garden. Interiors have adobe archways and custom Spanish tiles. Renovated rooms are furnished with Mission-style pieces; suites have heated floors.

207 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Tennis

Across from the Public Garden, this brick hotel has "clean, classic rooms" that evoke modern New England, with red, blue, and green fabrics and velvet chairs. A short walk from the Charles River and the Freedom Trail, "it makes a great base for sightseeing." At the Bristol, the varied menu includes jerk-spiced swordfish with sweet potato puree. "On our anniversary trip, staff delivered a cake to our room."

273 rooms

Amenities: Pool

Part of a high-rise, this hotel is "well situated",across from the John Hancock Center. "The grand lobby is stunning," with floral arrangements, chandeliers, and Italian marble. Linger over "beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the city" in most guest rooms, some of which, however, "are due a makeover" (remodeling starts in January 2007). The hotel is "great for families,they gave our kids bedtime milk and cookies." At The Cafe, try the sea scallops or the margherita pizza.

343 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This Kona coast property comprises "phenomenal bungalow-style buildings" that incorporate elements such as lava rock into the design. Meandering torch-lit paths "make for exotic and romantic nighttime walks," and perfect-scoring Rooms,with bamboo, thatch, and slate interiors and lava-walled private outdoor showers,"have to be seen to be believed." The Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, built right into the lava formations, "was never very busy," which made one guest happy. Casual dining and cocktails are the lure at the Beach Tree Bar & Grill. "Impeccable poolside service" includes Evian sprays, complimentary sunglass cleanings, and fresh-fruit skewers.

243 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

"It was a shame to leave the beauty and tranquillity" of this Asian-esque resort by a marine preserve. Tropical rooms, all with private lanais overlooking the "lavish gardens" or Hulopo'e Bay and the Pacific, have golden tones and cherry and rattan furnishings. Ihilani serves contemporary Italian; Ocean Grill, seafood alfresco.

236 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

This non-gaming spot on the south end of the Strip is "fine if you want to avoid the maze of casinos." Rooms that "typify Four Seasons" are done in neutral hues and have down bedding and marble bathrooms. At Verandah, "staff are as impressive as the risotto al frutti di mare." The spa's desert oasis body treatment is a salt exfoliation followed by an aloe wrap and scented body-butter application.

424 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Peer over downtown from rooms with balconies at this property that "looks like part of a condominium complex." Expect "a young and lively staff." The fitness equipment and outdoor pool are on a half-acre terrace. Gardens serves afternoon tea.

285 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Perfect-scoring Service "epitomizes the aloha spirit": "Staff are fantastic from the moment you walk in until the time you leave." The U-shaped design of this resort on 15 acres gives most rooms,kitted out in tropical colors and wicker furniture,ocean views. Exercise restraint at the Pacific Grill breakfast buffet: "I became addicted to the ricotta cheese and lemon pancakes."

380 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

Part of a mixed-use tower near the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, the hotel incorporates Art Deco period furnishings. "Lovely modern art and sculptures" decorate the rooms, which have cushioned window seats; suites have silk-covered walls and down-filled couches. Mingle with local scenesters over Brazilian batidas and caipirinhas at the rooftop bar Bahia.

221 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This 52-story landmark has a honey-colored French limestone exterior and a foyer with towering columns and an onyx ceiling. "It's a lovely place just to walk into." "Avant-garde yet classic rooms" are outfitted in relaxing taupe, have custom cabinetry, and are big (about 600 square feet). The recently opened L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon, from the French culinary emperor Joël Robuchon, serves Asian-influenced dishes.

368 rooms

Amenities: Spa

"Exceptional service and great attention to detail" are hallmarks of this gray granite hotel in the Museum District. Recent renovations updated the Federal-style rooms, with their satinwood veneers and toile drapes, adding yellow and chocolate color schemes. Chef Martin Hamann's Fountain Restaurant has dishes,such as veal chop with osso buco ragout,that are "to die for."

364 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

The location of this five-year-old tower,in the Yerba Buena Arts District, near public transportation,is "as good as it gets." Enter "a sleek, magnificent lobby" showcasing contemporary works by Northern California artists. Staff  "just keep doing,they get you whatever you want." Rooms in muted greens and yellows have European-style writing desks and bathrooms with marble countertops. Enjoy small plates and martinis at Seasons Bar.

277 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

ake in sunsets and stargaze under wide-open skies at this resort that merges with the surrounding Sonoran Desert. "Wonderfully outfitted" in Southwestern decor, rooms have patio doors that open onto private landscaped terraces; suites include telescopes, plunge pools, and outdoor showers. In addition to beef, seafood, and seasonal specialties, the Acacia steak house serves up panoramic views of Pinnacle Peak and has "first-class staff."

210 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

The top-scoring U.S. property (formerly the Lodge at Koele) is wrapping up a $50 million renovation in February 2007. Its perfect-scoring Design melds the classic hunting lodge and Asian aesthetics using wood, stone, fireplaces, gardens, and original art. "Hawaiian country rooms" in golds and reds have floral prints, wood-paneled beds, and accent plaids "that work given the high-country location." Perfect-scoring staff are "superb: discreet, professional, and delightful,the best in Hawaii." The Terrace, which overlooks the reflecting pond, is the spot for casual dining.

102 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Tennis

In "a fine Georgetown location right on the main drag," this two-winged hotel opened in 1979. In rooms, which have six-foot soaking tubs, the European touches include Italian linen and furniture. Seasons Restaurant serves regional ingredients in dishes such as roasted Maine lobster with parsnips, bok choy, and Japanese mushrooms. The spa offers seven different types of massage, including prenatal and Thai.

211 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

"Come here for a wonderful aloha experience." The low-rise architecture was designed to reflect Hawaii in the 1920s, with public spaces that open to the outdoors, which is "beautiful and lush, with flowers everywhere." Rooms mix flora and fauna prints with contemporary chaise longues. Built to look like a series of huts floating on a lagoon, Tidepools serves modern regional cuisine such as seared opah topped with blue crab and avocado.

602 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

This five-wing oceanfront resort has lush gardens and "pools you usually see only in a water park." The Asian-influenced design gives the place "a tropical ambience." Kincha, a Japanese teahouse surrounded by gardens and 800 tons of rocks imported from Mount Fuji, serves "darn good sushi."

780 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

Situated on 6,500 acres in the Allegheny Mountains, this historic estate decked out in Dorothy Draper-style green-and-pink florals has "a charm that's to die for." Staff are "wherever you turn, waiting to help." The main dining room, with its stately columns, is the setting for "incredible pancakes, with the freshest blueberries imaginable." A gun club and an off-road driving school are outdoor diversions.

803 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

Surrounded by open courtyards, palms, and gardens, this Waikiki Beach mainstay enjoys "a prime location" close to Kalakaua Avenue's shopping, restaurants, and nightlife. "Tastefully decorated rooms" in white with gray and blue accents have bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. Feast on bouillabaisse at La Mer. Unwind with a Samoan-inspired nonu massage at the spa.

455 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Water sports

Expect "upscale, tasteful, and simple elegance" at this brick block that garners a perfect Location score for its harborfront setting. Accommodations, which have 14-foot ceilings and mostly white furnishings, mix old (exposed brick walls and handcrafted armoires) and new (Wi-Fi and whirlpool tubs). Dining consists of breakfast delivered to your room.

52 rooms

At this Paradise Valley "cowboy's hangout," expect Southwestern colors, plantation window shutters, hand-painted Mexican tiles, and leather wingback chairs. The property started as artist Lon Megargee's one-room adobe studio and was subsequently expanded into a guest ranch and then converted to an inn. Lon's serves wood-grilled beef tenderloin against the backdrop of Camelback Mountain. "Everything was secluded. I didn't realize the tennis courts were there until my second day."

35 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Tennis

This hilltop "crown jewel" on three acres of gardens with "breathtaking floral color" was once a farmhouse and then a finishing school. Rooms have wood floors, area rugs, and bright tones. Chef-owner Thomas Henkelmann trained Europe, and his eponymous restaurant serves contemporary French meals "that are not to be missed,few places are this special."

18 rooms

Set on 12 acres of gardens, courtyards, and fountains, the hotel and its "well-manicured grounds" provide a serene base. Surrounding the 1920s Mission-style pink stucco building are guest quarters with private entrances and sometimes fireplaces and tiled patios. The Restaurant serves Californian and Mediterranean cuisine. "Staff are superfriendly."

91 rooms

Amenities: Pool

This 220-room slate-roof property is "near upscale shops and restaurants." The lobby, with its artwork, velvet couches, and ten types of marble, "smacks of grandeur." European-style rooms in deep, rich hues have "dreamy bed linens." At the 23,000-square-foot spa, try wet treatments using Vichy showers. Get coffee and quick bites to go at the Crescent Gourmet.

220 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

The modern country inn is in Healdsburg's historic plaza, within "walking distance of great restaurants." The decor is "not fussy but uses rich materials." Airy rooms have dark pecan floors, teak furniture, and poured-concrete vanities in bathrooms. Unwind with wine or a cocktail by the fireplace in the lobby lounge. A cooking school is scheduled to open in June 2007.

55 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Once the First Union National Bank, this Grecian brick and limestone tower reopened as a hotel three years ago. The lobby has 30-foot Doric columns and a carved ceiling. Rooms have a vivid color palette and European artwork; windows between the bedroom and the bathroom enable guests to watch TV while soaking in the oversized Jacuzzi. Jean-Georges Vongerichten's restaurant Bank features New American cuisine with Asian nuances.

135 rooms

Amenities: Spa

Built during the silver-mining boom, the hotel "combines the Old West with the comfort of modernity." The brick building overlooks Aspen Mountain, and from the terrace "you can watch the sun set behind the Rockies,what colors!" Rooms in tans and floral patterns have custom beds. Starting in April, the property will be closed for most of 2007 for renovations.

92 rooms

With ubiquitous sculptures, artwork, and photography, this 1928 brick-and-terra-cotta Neoclassic Revival building "feels more like a gallery." The "terrific location" puts guests close to the MAX light-rail and the Pearl District. Rooms with rich mahogany and bold colors have bathrooms with stainless steel basins. Press the roomis get it now button and "staff appear immediately." Typhoon restaurant serves modern Thai.

127 rooms

This 1910 Beaux Arts building in the theater district has a lobby with high ceilings, a two-story French inglenook fireplace, and a hand-painted ceiling portraying the history of flight. Rich persimmon, turquoise, and terra-cotta hues characterize public areas; "small but cute rooms" flaunt stripes and bold patterns. Grand Cafe serves California-French cuisine and has a decor that's evocative of Paris in the 1930s. Have a tarot card reading during the complimentary wine hour.

201 rooms

Amenities: Spa

This European-style hotel is on a tree-lined Upper East Side street near Madison Avenue shopping,in the "high-end part of New York that most tourists never see." "Warm and tastefully furnished rooms" have Asian silk fabrics, Paul Garnier clocks, and headboards framed in camel-colored leather. Dine on seafood under the Murano chandeliers and the gold-domed ceiling at Arabelle. "Snappy service makes everything look easy."

149 rooms

Opened two years ago on the Embarcadero, near the Ferry Building, "it's a happening hotel, although anyone of any age would be comfortable here." Rooms, some with bay views, have walk-in rain showers, "fabulous beds," and bath products by Fresh. "The food is no match for Boulevard," one of the city's leading restaurants, located nearby.

199 rooms

Amenities: Spa

At this four-story French-style property, there's "a kitschy, retro feel to the rooms," which have rounded doorways, deep-red upholstery, and mix-and-match furniture. The chef at Dragonfly takes inspiration from around the globe,hence menu items such as tandoori barbecued prawns and yogurt-marinated Colorado lamb. In winter, glass covers the pool, so "at cocktail hour it feels like you're walking on water."

154 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Nature is the draw at this "simple yet upscale Craftsman inn" on a bluff above Puget Sound. Each guest room has a 180-degree waterfront view from a private porch as well as a whirlpool tub looking onto a fireplace and the water. Rooms are decorated with natural woods and art from the owners' collection. On weekends, the six-course dinner includes local seafood, meat, and cheese.

24 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Spa

"Get away from it all" at this 2004 colonial Lowcountry property between Charleston and Savannah. Its cottages and cottage suites are "the nicest accommodations in the United States",pine floors, vaulted ceilings, a screened-in porch,hence the perfect Rooms score. At the River House, "the most charming waiters" deliver regional specialties such as sweet Carolina corn soup and local grouper.

50 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Spa, Tennis

Perched on a hillside above Pike Place Market and overlooking Elliott Bay, this 1985 brick inn is near major attractions: "You can walk to anything." Rooms in soft tones have Tempur-Pedic mattresses. Campagne has southern French specialties nightly, while the health-conscious bistro Bacco menu uses fruits and vegetable from the market.

70 rooms

Sandstone walls, hand-carved doors, and wooden beams are attributes of this adobe inn that "stands out, yet complements its surroundings." Steps from the Plaza's galleries and museums, the property has Southwestern rooms with four-poster beds, gas-lit kiva fireplaces, and regional artwork. The chef prepares native seasonal foods with French and Asian twists like miso-marinated sea bass and cashew-crusted yellowfin tuna at the Anasazi Restaurant.

57 rooms

Built at the base of the Grand Tetons, the lodge provides "views of the mountains and the lakes in every direction." Worn clapboard cabins in the forest around the main lodge have broad-shingle roofs. Inside, exposed beams and handmade quilts reinforce the sense that "you are in the true West." The dining room serves Rocky Mountain cuisine such as grilled elk chop.

37 cabins

A signer of the Constitution built this "well maintained" antebellum mansion that has carved Italian marble fireplaces, original plaster moldings, and inlaid wood floors. There's no restaurant, so "the personable concierge directed us to nearby eateries." Rooms, in the main residence and two carriage houses, have fireplaces, canopy beds, and period furnishings.

19 rooms

You'll find "acres of beautiful grounds" and five pools at this four-year-old Southwestern desert resort where plaster and stone exteriors are complemented by floral landscaping. Uniquely mixed and matched furniture and deep earth tones "bring the desert inside the rooms." Tap the helpful concierge to set up tee times at the "beautiful golf courses." Get a sage scrub at the Revive Spa.

950 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

The exterior of this lass and stucco monolith is "rather ordinary, but the rooms are very peasant." A two-year-old newcomer in an upscale neighborhood, it has "the feel of a small European hotel." Local artwork and blown glass are displyed throughout; rooms come with custom fabrics and complimentary Internet access. The pet perks program, launched in spring 2006, treats your pooch to a sheepskin bed and a personalized biscuit.

196 rooms

Amenities: Spa

Stay at this Tuscan-style villa on a 600-acre estate near Charlottesville and feel like "you're living in your own private manor." Guest rooms are individually themed,fishing, maps, music,and most come with antiques, canopied four-posters, and overstuffed ottomans. "Fabulous staff" provide a nightly turndown service of fresh butter cookies. The Bar serves as the official tasting room for the nearby Keswick Vineyards.

48 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

This 78-year-old stucco building with a brick courtyard has warm interiors and French windows. Upper-floor rooms have Carmel Bay views, and "superior bathrooms" include heated floors and hand-hammered copper sinks. The restaurant serves a ten-course meal with Asian, Mexican, and European accents: king prawn satay, green papaya salad, foie gras, pumpkin risotto, and more. "Staff were delightful."

20 rooms

This spot near Oak Creek, in Red Rock Country, "kept its charm even as Sedona became commercialized." Lodge rooms and cottages, the latter with wood-burning fireplaces, have French country decor. Dine alfresco at the restaurant, and "eat shrimp by the creek." A new spa opened in September.

53 rooms

Amenities: Spa

Celebrating its eightieth birthday in December 2006, this "cozy, intimate Mediterranean-style hotel" with a pink exterior and mosaic-tiled tower provides "spectacular Pacific Ocean views." In rooms with custom fabrics, windows open fully to let in the breeze. Leather banquettes, harpoons, lanterns, and ivory scrimshaw set the stage at the Whaling Bar and Grill.

115 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Water sports

"The butlers treated us like royalty" at this property in River Oaks, a residential neighborhood brimming with oak trees. Even locals praise the "gorgeous lobby flower displays." Rooms have Jacuzzis and floor-to-ceiling windows. The Remington Restaurant prepares Texas-accented American seafood and meat dishes.

179 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

The service is "beyond impressive" at this 1902 Beaux Arts fixture on Fifth Avenue: A butler, on call 24 hours a day, "caters to your every whim,even those you didn't know you had." Stay in bright rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, silk-draped canopy beds, and fresh fruit and flowers. The Astor Court serves country French cuisine, and the King Cole Bar was the birthplace of the Bloody Mary.

256 rooms

Amenities: Spa

At this "peaceful and restful" warm-colored-stone resort, the lobby has hand-blown glass and forged-iron latticework. Rooms have brown leather chairs, thatched headboards, and Lissadell Irish terry towels. Stonehill Tavern serves modern American fare such as organic fried chicken, and you can "sip your wine and meet interesting people" at sunset, which is visible from the outdoor terrace. Try hydrotherapy or a massage at the 30,000-square-foot Spa Gaucin.

400 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

Upon arrival at this resort named for its ubiquitous palm trees, guests are welcomed with a tropical rum punch and their own name on a wooden plaque for the room. The absence of in-room telephones and TVs enhances the "isolated but lovely location": "Come here to veg out." Thatched-roof bungalows have British colonial furniture and outdoor showers. Enjoy "first-class" pan-Latin cuisine at the Dining Room.

30 suites

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Water sports

A hillside coastal property adjacent to the Torrey Pines Golf Course, it has "an appealing setting" and Craftsman-style post-and-beam construction with a sandstone and shingle exterior and winglike rooflines. Public areas have overstuffed couches and leather chairs, and rooms are stocked with handwoven Turkish rugs, replica Morris chairs, and Tiffany lamps. At A. R. Valentien, named for artist Albert Robert Valentien, whose paintings hang in the restaurant, the menu relies heavily on local produce, fish, and game.

170 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa

The downtown former Tennessee Trust Bank combines "New York style with Southern warmth." "Sleek yet comfy rooms" have marble baths, Italian linens, and down duvets. Take drinks and listen to live bands on the rooftop terrace, which has "a stunning panoramic view of the mighty Mississippi." "Everyone had a smile, from the doorman to housekeeping."

110 rooms

Amenities: Pool

This six-year-old waterfront property in Brickell Key has views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline. "Everything is very comfortable" in rooms with ten-foot ceilings, marble bathrooms, and Bose stereos. Azul serves Mediterranean- and Asian-influenced dishes in a setting that's "fun and tropical." Oasis Beach Club provides white-cushioned daybeds, hammocks, and butlers on a private beach.

327 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa

"Exquisite cityscape views" are the norm at this contemporary Asian-themed hotel in the Time Warner Center. Rooms, in gold and black or in red and silver, have bathrooms with beige Spanish marble and granite vanities. Spa treatments such as a salt scrub incorporating jasmine and frangipani essential oils are "a real treat." At Asiate, Japanese cuisine with a European twist (pan-seared prawns with lemon zest gnocchi) comes with Central Park views.

248 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Since this hotel comprises floors 38 through 48 of the twin-towered California Center, views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge are "the reason to stay" (alas, the surrounding Financial District is "dead on weekends"). Rooms, all renovated in 2006, combine a cinnamon palette with Asian mahogany and bamboo accents. At Silks, order dishes such as the lobster with tom yum noodles. "The service is out of this world."

158 rooms

This two-year-old property comprises an 1888 former home with a turreted Victorian Romanesque exterior and a newer four-story building. Lime or raspberry rooms have dark-wood pieces with silver accents and velvet chaise longues. More than 100 hats, dating from 1860 to 1960, are displayed outside the Viennese Ballroom. With 15-foot ceilings and seven fireplaces, 700 Drayton serves dishes such as pecan-crusted rack of New Zealand lamb.

126 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This 2003 Craftsman-style property with crown moldings, copper gutters, and a tile roof is "barely visible from the road,it blends into the hillside." The Loft, in yellow, blue, and sage hues, serves dishes of the Americas: vanilla butter-braised lobster, coffee-encrusted New York strip steak, spit-roasted organic chicken. Four beaches and three pools are on the property. "We felt incredibly well taken care of by the staff."

262 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa

"From the moment you pull up in front of this brick building, you know you're someplace special." This Federal-style mansion eight miles from Washington is in the heart of Old Town, "perfect for discovering shops and restaurants." Rooms have Federal reproduction furniture and marble baths, and the Grille at Morrison House, serving wild game, fish, and free-range fowl, is "one of the best restaurants around."

45 rooms

Peaked roofs and native stone offset with stucco and timber create the look of this alpine spread. Inside, pine-paneled walls and ceilings contrast with wrought iron accents for "a modern mountain design." Bivans serves Rocky Mountain fare with a French-bistro twist. A $20 million renovation concluded in December 2006, doubling Allegria Spa's size to 30,000 square feet.

190 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Skiing, Spa

Enter the lobby of this modern hotel in the Park Tower and "it's so quiet and elegant that it's hard to believe you're in a big city." Sleek rooms with black granite and warm cherry have custom-designed Turkish furniture, Eames chairs, and Rivolta Carmignani linens. NoMI serves contemporary French-inspired cuisine beneath crystal chandeliers and leather-wrapped beams, but "it can be pricey."

198 rooms)

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This 1844 building, once a dry goods shop, is "within walking distance of almost everything." Guest rooms have crown moldings, ten-foot ceilings, and four-poster beds, and the penthouse has views of the historic district. Dine on steak, seafood, and a seven-layer coconut cake amid the Peninsula Grill's velvet-covered walls and nineteenth-century oil paintings.

64 rooms

"Stop time for a few days" at this inn where "even the air seems different,soft and fragrant with rosemary." Rooms in stand-alone buildings are "designed for optimal views of nature," with wood-burning fireplaces, spa tubs, redwood walls, showers with Indian slate, and organic cotton linens. At Sierra Mar, "the Californian-Mediterranean food is stellar, as is the never-ending Pacific scenery." A pool overlooking the ocean opened recently.

33 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

In "a peaceful setting" overlooking Hanalei Bay, this retreat is chock-full of European antiques and has "a breathtaking, expansive lobby." Rooms in cream hues have oil paintings and "exceptionally beautiful views" of the Pacific and the Na Molokama Mountains. Amid murals of Italian villages, sample Mediterranean cuisine at La Cascata. Poolside concierge service was recently added.

252 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

This "warm and inviting hotel" is set on a tree-lined residential avenue in Beverly Hills. Contemporary rooms with clean lines have sycamore paneling, platform beds, silks, and maple furniture; most have French doors that open onto city views. The Writer's Bar, where movie-industry titans gather, recently introduced a new cocktail menu. The newly redecorated private rooftop cabanas have flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. Men's facials are available at the spa.

119 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

The perfect-scoring rooms at this hacienda-style hideaway are "quaint and unique," with cathedral ceilings and Berber carpets. A 25-minute drive from La Jolla, this "world-class resort" is on 40 acres. At the Rancho Valencia Restaurant, "you'll always see a movie star or two," and the cuisine is California-Mediterranean,veal piccata with crème fraîche-whipped potatoes,and "the breakfast is great." The spa is spread over two and a half acres.

49 suites

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

This 81-year-old Mediterranean Revival pile built by an oil baron is minutes from the Museum of Fine Arts and the Dali Museum. Lobby decor includes glazed quarry tiles, cypress beams, and "Floridian touches." The hotel completed a $3.5 million renovation in December 2006, updating both presidential suites and revamping Marchand's Bar & Grill, where the menu is Mediterranean-inspired.

360 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

"You can't beat the location" of this four-year-old lodge on Beaver Creek Mountain. Design elements include timber beams, stone masonry, dormer windows, log balconies, and about 100 fireplaces throughout. Rooms in rich browns and greens have oversized furniture and sculpted lamps depicting wildlife. Spa treatments incorporate indigenous blue spruce, apples, Douglas fir needles, and alpine berries.

237 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Skiing, Spa, Tennis

This high-rise is "a class act all around." Located in a prestigious Atlanta district, it's across from upscale Lenox Square shops. Expect crystal chandeliers, silk wall coverings, and a collection of eighteenth- and nineteenth-century oils, bronzes, and furnishings. "Typical Ritz rooms" come with 600-thread-count linens. At the Dining Room, the menu melds French, Spanish, and North African influences.

553 rooms

Amenities: Pool

This property in the foothills of the San Gabriels mixes a red-tile-roof and Spanish exterior with floors and interior paintings reminiscent of England, and it is celebrating its centennial in 2007. "You can see the beautiful landscape from your balcony." The restored ballrooms have Venetian chandeliers and gold crown moldings. Take afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge.

392 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa, Tennis

At this windswept glass-and-brick tower at the southern tip of Manhattan,blighted by the surrounding road construction,rooms with light woods and sage tones come with telescopes so guests can get a closer look at the Statue of Liberty. Opened five years ago, the hotel has amassed works by more than a hundred New York artists. "It's good for business travelers and great for those who enjoy a run along the harbor." Rise has an outdoor terrace and a cocktails menu.

298 rooms

Amenities: Spa

At this hotel on Central Park South, "request a room on the twentieth floor or higher to clear the treetops." Step outside and "everything from Broadway to Carnegie Hall is accessible on foot." Public areas pair French limestone walls with inlaid-onyx flooring. Rooms have rose, celadon, and taupe carpets and come with four different types of pillow. BLT Market, opening in early 2007, will serve seasonal dishes. La Prairie spa offers four kinds of facial.

261 rooms

Amenities: Spa

Located ten minutes from downtown D.C., this sand-colored block has "a stark exterior" that belies the bright color scheme in the recently renovated rooms: Contemporary dark mahogany furnishings are now in interiors of cream, gold, and cobalt blue. "Ask for a corner room with a view of the capital." The Grill, serving regional American cuisine, has a prime rib night on weekends. Bring your four-legged friends: "They have pet amenities."

366 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Although "the surroundings are beautiful," this five-year-old cedar lodge fronting Lake Oconee, 75 miles from Atlanta, is "hard to get to." Rooms have slate floors, beamed ceilings, and fieldstone fireplaces; lakeside cottages come with private verandas and oversized bathtubs. Georgia's serves Southern dishes such as Georgia salad with fried green tomatoes and spiced pecans,and "a particularly good breakfast."

251 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

"The staff excel" at this broad tower, 15 miles from Washington, that draws corporate guests. "Rooms are luxurious," with mahogany furnishings and cut-crystal lamps. Maestro's Italian fare earns praise from near and far: "I eat there all the time, even though I live in the area!" Several spa treatments incorporate coffee.

398 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Shoppers appreciate the location of this hotel in Water Tower Place, and joggers laud the proximity to trails along Lake Michigan. Traditional rooms have Irish carpets in green, cream, and taupe and furniture upholstered in Pierre Frey linens. The "gorgeous lobby" has a central fountain lit by a skylight. "Top-notch staff are a step ahead of you, anticipating your needs." The Dining Room,decorated with crystal chandeliers and walnut-paneled walls,serves butter-poached Maine lobster with porcini mushrooms.

435 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This hotel in a mixed-use former brick factory with a 130-foot smokestack has "immaculate and comfortable rooms" in rich earth tones. "The attention to detail is impressive,the general manager toured the halls with housekeeping to make sure everything was up to snuff." The food at Fahrenheit is available in small, medium, and large portions so diners can mix, match, and share.

86 rooms

Amenities: Spa

Staying at this former mansion at the foot of Camelback Mountain is "a spiritual experience." Spanish colonial architecture and Tuscan landscaping combine to create the "beautiful, serene surroundings." Casitas, which are separate from the main building, have French doors leading to patios, wrought iron canopy beds, fireplaces, and bathrooms with "tiles galore." Dine on salads and sandwiches poolside at the Cabana Grill.

117 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa, Tennis

A convenient jumping-off point for exploring nearby Yellowstone National Park, this river-rock and lodgepole pine property is "only three blocks from town." "Cozy rooms" come with fleece robes and Italian linens, and in some cases fireplaces and whirlpool tubs. The open kitchen at Wild Sage serves up "food that's as fantastic as it gets," including elk loin and tea-smoked duck breast. Wi-Fi was recently added.

31 rooms

Amenities: Spa

This 91-room lodge in the Cascades sits above the "awe-inspiring" 270-foot Snoqualmie Falls. "Large, cozy rooms" in cedar have wood-burning fireplaces and tubs big enough for two; "the best have a balcony overlooking the rushing water." The dining room's seasonal menu celebrates regional cuisine.

91 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Skiing, Spa, Water sports

Perfect-scoring staff "go out of their way to make you feel welcome" at this terraced property on the north slope of Camelback Mountain. "It feels more like a private home than a hotel." Interiors have wood and limestone accents; rooms have flat-screen TVs and feather beds with silk throws and Mascioni linens. Elements serves Asian-influenced American plates; Jade bar draws "the hip crowd."

104 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

"This classic American beach resort is a comfortable and warm place" near the Santa Monica Pier, shopping, restaurants, and art galleries. Upgraded rooms have oak floors, four-poster beds, and Tibetan wool rugs. One Pico has a seasonal American menu with "wonderful food," as well as "great servce and views of the Pacific" from the wraparound windows.

198 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa

This Bavarian lodge feels like "a real family-run operation": "Staff drove us to and from restaurants in town." Its location in the heart of Vail means it's "the perfect escape but within walking distance of everything." Welcoming rooms have pine furniture, soaking tubs, and heated marble floors. Alas, the local fare at Bully Ranch is "nothing exceptional."

127 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Skiing, Spa, Tennis

"Grand Teton views dominate" at this rambling log-and-stone ranch house on 1,000 acres of wildlife refuge. Rooms with "Western attitude" have a cabin-like feel and feature neutral colors, lodgepole pine furnishings, and river-rock fireplaces. Dinner at the cliffside Granary means American and European cuisine and floor-to-ceiling Teton views.

126 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Skiing, Spa, Tennis

Zebrawood and Italian travertine flooring and a 12-foot open fireplace await guests in the lobby of this year-old property near the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Rooms of leather and marble have limestone showers and flat-screen TVs. Wood floors, a red wall, and a sashimi bar enliven Ame, which showcases New American fare.

260 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This redbrick hotel at the base of Aspen Mountain is "warm and inviting." Contemporary alpine rooms have striped carpeting, red bedcovers, and cream-colored linens. Order the St. Regis Classic Martini at the Shadow Mountain Lounge. The Remède Spa has "first-class massage therapists." The service is "what you wish for and more."

179 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Skiing, Spa

This European-style resort in the White Mountains started out as a small bed-and-breakfast for stage coach travelers in 1866. Rooms with floral wallpaper "could use a sprucing up." but the Edwardian main dining room has views of Lake Gloriette and serves perfect-scoring food such as chilled blueberry-orange soup, pan-seared scallops, and "an outstanding Kobe roast beef hash." Hike, bike, ski, and golf on 15,000 acres of grounds. "The service is always personal and excellent."

202 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Skiing, Tennis, Water sports

"Relaxation is the operative word" at this 22-year-old resort on 1,300 acres in the Sonoran Desert. Set among granite boulder formations, the adobe-style casitas have "a sculpted quality that makes them harmonious with nature." Guest rooms include hand-hewn wood-beamed ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces, and private decks or patios overlooking the desert or the golf course. Latilla, the signature restaurant, recently introduced an all-organic menu.

215 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

This 1926 classic, with towers fashioned after Rome's Villa Medici, sits on 140 acres and "looks authentically historic." Swimming pools, two 18-hole golf courses, tennis courts, and water sports make it "a superb choice for active travelers." A $15 million beachfront renovation (completed in March 2006) added private bungalows for daytime use. Among the offerings at the eight restaurants are steak and Asian dishes.

560 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

This Renaissance grande dame opened in 1918 and has exposed beams and a curved marble staircase. Renovated guest rooms are "very charming," with fireplaces and flat-screen TVs in the bathrooms. Atop the South Tower, the glass-enclosed Penrose Room serves up views of Cheyenne Mountain alongside its Continental cuisine. "If you like golf, you'll like it here."

700 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

With its old-fashioned elevator operators, this Art Deco mainstay on the Upper East Side, near numerous museums, is "thoroughly old New York, which I like." Art and antiques decorate the "striking lobby," and rooms have Louis XVI furnishings. The Cafe Carlyle is "a throwback to an era when martinis and supper clubs were all the rage." Guests with young children have use of a British Silver Cross Balmoral baby carriage.

179 rooms

Amenities: Spa

At this 1928 resort designed by Addison Mizner, stroll along the five-mile private beach before retiring to "breathtakingly elegant rooms" with Turkish rugs, antiques, and European fabrics. In the formal Georgian Room, "exemplary staff" serve meals,such as chateaubriand,on hand-painted china. Full butler service was recently introduced in all rooms.

156 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

Following a $38 million renovation in 2002 that preserved the "old-fashioned furniture" (mostly hand-carved mahogany), this downtown 1914 Mission Revival hotel remains a "Pacific Northwest treasure." The main building has a red-tile roof and interiors with plenty of gilt and chandeliers; it will be joined by a tower in early 2007. Rooms have coffered ceilings and oversized marble showers. The Palm Court Grill specializes in prime rib and seafood (the crab Louie is named for the hotel's original owner, Louis Davenport).

611 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This "classic whitewashed Hawaiian resort" takes its design inspiration from the white frangipani flower. One-bedroom suites in soft creams and yellows have private lanais and walk-in showers. Oceanfront villas have plunge pools, though some guests prefer the lagoon-style swimming pools with their 140-foot waterslide. Nick's Fishmarket Maui offers fresh seafood and a 2,000-bottle wine cellar.

450 suites

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

Families laud this stucco Kohala Coast resort: "At night staff round up all the children, and together they go around the property lighting the tiki lamps." Rooms give a sense of place with dark wood, rattan furniture, and tan carpets with a bamboo motif. Near the shore, Brown's Beach House focuses on Hawaiian fish. "The tennis is great, and the courts are spotless"; two golf courses incorporate lava into their designs.

540 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

Just minutes from the Capitol and Georgetown, this broad ten-story West End property has rooms that combine red and gold hues ith dark-wood furnishings and balconies overlooking the courtyard garden. Bathrooms are "pleasantly spacious" and have floor-to-ceiling Botticio marble. The Colonnade, with windows all around and skylights, serves "one of the best brunches I've ever had."

466 rooms

Amenities: Pool

This European-style monolith is "a beauty to look at." Rooms have French cherrywood furniture, handwoven English wool carpets, and veined marble bathrooms. Under a handblown Murano chandelier, the Garden Cafe dishes up American seasonal dishes such as cedar plank salmon, but "you're better off eating elsewhere." Signature treatments at the spa use Utah honey.

775 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Spa

At this hotel overlooking Lafayette Park and the White House, "you're right in the middle of everything." Built in the 1880s as a residence, "this small-profile establishment offers a more interesting experience than the big hotels." Digs include marble bathrooms and, in some rooms, ornamental fireplaces. Enjoy cocktails and "a really fun scene" amid the deep-red walls of the Off the Record Bar. Staff exhibit "an understated attentiveness."

143 rooms

"Staff are friendly without being fake" at this 1987 resort between the Del Monte Forest and the Pacific. Each room has a sitting area and a private patio or balcony, with some oceanview accommodations set on the first fairway of the Links at Spanish Bay course. At Roy's, the menu changes daily and a sushi bar was recently added. Come evening, head outside: "Every day, a bagpiper serenades as the sun goes down."

269 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

The former Kahala Mandarin Oriental is "near busy Waikiki but worlds away from its hectic pace." Rooms have mahogany furniture and Tibetan rugs. Dining choices range from Asian-inflected fare at Hoku's to lunch dishes like a mahimahi sandwich with grilled pineapple at Cabanas Seaside Grill.

345 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Water sports

This chateau is atop a privately owned mountain in Vail Valley. Decorated in sage green and red rock hues, rooms come with views of the Sawatch Range. At Mirador, chef Fabrice Beaudoin concocts "original and innovative dishes" such as Angus beef tournedos and braised beef cheeks with oyster mushrooms. After skiing across the resort's seven miles of groomed cross-country trails, unwind at the 20,000-square-foot spa.

56 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Skiing, Spa

Golf reigns supreme at this cream-colored hotel: "The opportunity to experience a round here should not be missed." In 11 two-story buildings are guest rooms with wood-burning fireplaces as well as patios or decks. Club XIX serves dishes such as Dover sole amandine. Non-golfers can ride horses at the nearby equestrian center.

161 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

This 2001 resort set amid the live oaks replicates the mansions of Newport. Mahogany paneling, slate floors, antiques, and chandeliers produce "the charm you find only at small inns." Rooms with Atlantic views have oversized marble European baths and "luxurious bedding." Seafood and aged beef appear on the menu at Colt and Alison's, where diners seated in leather wing chairs gaze at the Plantation Golf Course.

42 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

This ivy-strewn resort is surrounded by a 600-acre preserve and backed by the Santa Catalinas. Suites in desert tones,"the natural colors of the Southwest",with flashes of blond wood have a living area, a kitchenette, and a balcony or a patio. "Great outdoor activities" include two Tom Fazio golf courses and 12 tennis courts. Brooklyn Spaghetti and Meatballs is on the menu at the Catalina Room.

50 suites

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Tennis

"Take advantage of the stunning service" at this French Renaissance property near Rodeo Drive. Rooms with marble bathrooms and oversized tubs have wireless Internet and, upon request, "stationery embossed with your name." The Peninsula Suite even has a baby grand piano. Try the pan-roasted barramundi at The Belvedere; the Living Room offers 19 different brews at afternoon tea. At the spa, get a treatment with Shiffa products, including gem-saturated oils.

194 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

The top hotel in the United States is in the heart of the Magnificent Mile and has "sincere and extremely attentive staff." Decor is "contemporary yet classical," from the "unabashedly grand lobby," with its high ceilings and marble floors, to the rooms in muted beige, tan, rust, and gold tones. An in-room touch panel controls lighting, and bathrooms have soaking tubs and their own TVs. Take in "stunning views" from the penthouse pool's 20-foot-tall windows. The eclectic menu at Avenues includes pistachio-crusted elk tenderloin.

339 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

This 1905 Beaux Arts landmark, with an exterior of limestone, copper cornices, and Doric columns, was once the storied Gotham Hotel. The Midtown location, near the Museum of Modern Art, "couldn't be better." Enter a lobby of carved woodwork, marble floors, and Asian carpets, and proceed to rooms with bedside consoles that let you regulate the temperature and the lighting. At Fives, which has black leather banquettes and velvet walls, the menu is Mediterranean.

239 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

Situated on 250 acres at the base of Camelback Mountain, this Southwestern resort is "an oasis that feels removed from the city." Works of art blend with muted color schemes and earth tones in guest rooms. Rolling golf courses, cactuses, and numerous pools make the grounds "very serene and relaxing." The Terrace does "a breakfast that makes waking up early worthwhile."

654 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

This Bavarian-style resort offers "breathtaking views." Rooms have pine furnishings and "very comfortable beds," and "top-notch staff knew our names the moment we arrived." The Grouse Mountain Grill, which overlooks Beaver Creek Village, uses herbs from the lodge's organic garden in its game, fish, and fowl dishes.

60 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Skiing

"In the immediate vicinity of Philly's best sights," such as the Museum of Art, this hotel in a condominium complex has a cobblestoned courtyard, a fountain, a garden, and rooms styled in blue and gold with mahogany furniture. Lacroix's French fare includes sauteed young rabbit with violet mustard. The spa recently added treatment rooms.

98 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

"Everything is amazing" at this five-year-old resort on the northwestern tip of the Everglades. The lobby's mahogany wood panels, gold quartz floors, and numerous ceiling fans are very British colonial. Rooms have goose-down comforters and balconies with "gorgeous views of the golf course," one of two at the neighboring Greg Norman-designed Tiburón Golf Club. "The attention paid to guests is astounding."

295 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Tennis

At this shingle-style property inspired by grand Northeastern lodges of the nineteenth century, guests praise the blufftop location and its "magnificent cliff and ocean views." Rooms, most with bay windows and fireplaces, are done in a coastal cottage style with florals and stripes. At Navio, dine on the day's catch from nearby Princeton Harbor under a barrel-vaulted ceiling modeled after a ship's hull.

261 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

"Fall asleep to the sound of the waves" at this Mediterranean-style property on a bluff between Los Angeles and San Diego. Rooms in sea and sand tones reflect the landscape. Restaurant 162' has an open kitchen and a menu that's strong on seafood,scallops with red rice and pistachio-soy vinaigrette, ahi sashimi and shrimp paella, and roasted-corn crab cakes.

393 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

In "a beautiful location on the Gulf of Mexico" near downtown shopping, the hotel has 22 acres replete with arches, courtyards, and stone fountains. "The public areas are outstanding," including the Grand Lobby, with its Persian rugs and Austrian crystal chandeliers. "Staff never have problems fulfilling requests." Traditional rooms have hardwood-floored foyers and flat-screen TVs. The 51,000-square-foot spa is the largest in the Ritz-Carlton chain.

450 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

"You'll be treated like royalty" at this neoclassical Nob Hill hotel with views of the San Francisco skyline. Rooms are decorated in understated yellows and taupes, with wood furniture such as chinoiserie cabinets and European bed chests. Sip afternoon tea and nibble on finger sandwiches to the strains of a harpist at the Lobby Lounge. In 2006, renovations brought Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs to rooms.

336 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

"There are no negatives" when it comes to this block near downtown. It has columns, cupolas, a courtyard with a rose garden, and moss-green rooms with bathrooms trimmed in Italian marble. Guests get access to the private Ritz-Carlton Members Beach Club,on Lido Key, three miles from the property,where the Beach Club Grill serves seafood, salad, and steak.

266 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

The beachfront former DiLido Hotel, designed by Morris Lapidus, underwent a $200 million renovation before reopening as a Ritz-Carlton three years ago. It retains the "exterior curves and pastel accents" of the original Art Moderne structure, while rooms, based on luxury ocean liner staterooms, blend dark cherry furniture and blues, greens, and golds. David Bouley's Evolution, with a menu fusing Caribbean, European, and Asian elements, debuted in late 2006.

375 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Water sports

Designed by the architects who did Manhattan's Grand Central Terminal, this Italian Renaissance Revival building "reminds you of the golden age of Hollywood." It's located a few blocks from the performing arts center, but guests can escape the crowds by strolling the hotel's English garden. Rooms in terra-cotta, gold, and blue-green represent Minnesota's natural environment. The casual St. Paul Grill does American-style classics: surf and turf and Kansas City strip.

254 rooms

"The sound of the waves lulls you to sleep at night" at this oceanfront resort 30 minutes from Charleston. Green leafy grounds are "well manicured," and the 2004 brick, stucco, and copper resort's rooms have antiques and balconies (most with Atlantic views). Alas, the restaurants' menus are "very limited: After a few days, the food gets boring." "The beach is amazing,so wide."

255 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis, Water sports

The setting "couldn't be more picturesque" at this coastal resort comprised of low-rise cedar-shingled buildings decorated with wildlife art and sculptures. Rooms echo the island surroundings with shades of sea blue, gray, and taupe, and baths have walk-in showers and antique bronze fixtures. A renovation of all accommodations was completed in May 2006. The French-inspired Left Bank restaurant is "a little pretentious, but the service is outstanding."

96 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Tennis

The decor at this year-old South Beach newcomer in an Art Deco building reflects Shanghai influences, with lots of bronze, teak, and Asian artifacts. "Amazing rooms" have Dux beds, Irish linens, and flat-screen TVs. Three pools and a central courtyard create "a Zen-like ambience." The Restaurant serves Asian cuisine and modern comfort foods, but "the portions are small." "Overall it's a bit pricey for what you get."

125 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Spa, Water sports

This former saddlery is "a real charmer," with a perfect-scoring location on the Riverwalk. Interiors incorporate slate, hardwood, bamboo, and leather, while perfect-scoring rooms are "contemporary in a comforting way," with forged-iron four-poster beds, Egyptian cotton linens, and expansive windows. Fresh fish is flown in daily to the restaurant, Pesca on the River, creating the "seafood extraordinaire experience"; its "staff are a pleasure," as is its tequila tasting menu.

99 rooms

Amenities: Spa

This gray-shingled "storybook house on the water" opened as a restaurant in the 1800s, serving patrons arriving by boat. Its setting by the Great Point Wildlife Sanctuary is "nearly unbeatable." Rooms are decorated in warm tones, with country pine antiques, and cottages with fireplaces are "a welcome respite from everyday life." The recently renovated Topper's serves "some of the best seafood ever."

33 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Tennis, Water sports

This eight-year-old property on an abandoned limestone quarry next to the Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park has "a Southwestern twist," with the hefty wooden doors and ubiquitous ironwork of Spanish Mission architecture. Interior decor combines walnut and mahogany with polished tiles and leather armchairs. "We loved swimming in all the pools",six of them, to be exact. Try "great fish tacos" at The Gantry.

508 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa, Tennis

This 32-year-old inn built by a Hollywood producer is set on "a rugged and gorgeous coastal hilltop." Rooms have fireplaces and four-poster beds, as well as hammocks on private balconies; bathrooms come with teak vanities and folding cedar privacy panels. Order prosciutto-wrapped roasted quail at Cielo. The spa offers complimentary yoga classes.

60 rooms

Amenities: Pool, Spa

The staff at this 1886 inn "epitomize Southern hospitality," earning a perfect Service score. Original architecture includes Tiffany glass panels, crystal chandeliers, and pressed-tin ceilings. Rooms score perfectly for their gas fireplaces, "luxuriously indulgent" king-size sleigh beds, and bathrooms with double showerheads. The breakfast has "many excellent choices," and the cupola offers a 360-degree view of the city.

21 rooms

Amenities: Spa

The name means "crescent on the water," and this "absolutely charming" inn on Cape Cod comprises shingle cottages clustered on Round Cove. Country-style rooms include waterfront suites with decks. Outdoorsy types stop by the 18-hole golf course or the newly renovated pool. Thoreau's emulates the ambience of a clubby tavern and serves seafood. "The wedding coordinators are truly meticulous."

104 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Golf, Pool, Tennis, Water sports

On a secluded island just off Key West, this resort is "a place where you always want to stay longer." Perfect-scoring one-, two-, and three-bedroom cottages have Caribbean colors and raffia headboards; wraparound verandas offer "breathtaking sunset views." The service includes, by special request, a private chef who cooks meals in your cottage; at Latitudes Beach Cafe, "the ambience is better than the seafood."

37 rooms

Amenities: Beach, Pool, Tennis

The former Desert Inn is today "a small city unto itself." "Fabulous oversized rooms" average 640 square feet and have flat-screen TVs, dual vanities, and "the best products, furniture, and fabrics in Vegas"; some rooms even have a wall of windows overlooking the Strip. Offerings at the 23 restaurants, bars, and lounges include French, Italian, and Japanese fare. The on-site golf course was designed by Tom Fazio.

2,716 rooms

Amenities: Golf, Pool, Spa