While there are many awards and ratings bestowed on luxury hotels, U.S News gives an award of awards ranking, taking into account a number of other ratings and honors for its list. For this issue, we thought it would be fun to look at their 10 highest-rated hotels in the U.S. and the top suites.
1. Four Seasons Resort Lanai
2. Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
3. The Peninsula Chicago
4. The Beverly Hills Hotel
5. The Langham, Chicago
6. Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C.
7. Four Seasons Maui at Wailea
8. The Jefferson, Washington D.C.
9. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
10. The Inn & Club at Harbour Resort – The Sea Pines Resort
1. Four Seasons Resort Lanai
The US News take: Positioned along a beautiful stretch of Hulopoe Bay sand overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this resort offers breathtaking ocean views, manicured grounds, and top-notch customer service. During their stays, guests can enjoy outdoor pursuits, such as snorkeling, deep-sea fishing, hiking, whale watching, scuba diving, and more. Visitors use terms like “paradise” and “heaven on earth” to describe the property.
Guest rooms all feature private patios, as well as amenities like 75-inch flat-screen TVs with Blu-ray players, Nespresso machines, and free internet access. One of the most loved features is the complimentary shuttle, which will cart you to and from Lanai Town. Recent visitors do say you should brace yourself for the high cost of meals at the resort’s multiple restaurants and treatments at the in-house spa. Still, most travelers enjoy this Four Seasons resort’s piece of shoreline and its world-class golf course.
Alii Royal Suite
Inspired by Hawaiian history with a contemporary feel and prime ocean views, the Alii Royal Suite, located on the second floor, spans 3,984 sq. ft. It includes two bedrooms with king beds and an option for a third connecting bedroom.
Hulopoe Presidential Suite
Warm colors, rich hardwoods, and custom artwork and furnishings make this 1,280 sq. ft. top-floor suite elegant and inviting, with a formal living room, a dining area for six, a master bedroom, and two rivage lanais for taking in the panoramic views of Hulopoe Bay.
More suites at Four Seasons Resort Lanai.
2. Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
The U.S. News take: This spa resort doesn’t take any of its five stars for granted, particularly when it comes to delivering first-rate customer service. Guests can’t help but keep the compliments coming: Travelers say the resort staff takes extra care to personalize each experience.
The rooms come with flat-screen TVs and private balconies, as well as double sinks and glass-enclosed showers…The property also features two in-house eateries, a grab-and-go market, four pools, a spa, and beach amenities… Acqualina (is) about 10 miles north of Miami Beach.
Grand Deluxe Three Bedroom Oceanfront Suite
The 2,031 sq. ft Grand Deluxe Three Bedroom Oceanfront Suite offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean with an expansive 344 sq. ft. balcony. The suite’s elegant styling and contemporary glamour carry ocean grandeur throughout the interior design with its contemporary fabrics, soothing color palette, and marble.
The entry foyer with marble flooring has three round mirrored sconces, linear polished nickel light fixtures, and hand-painted wallpaper. The suite’s living room features modern end tables with a geometric design pattern, a 65-inch 4K TV and a flush mount chandelier.
A full gourmet kitchen has designer Arctic white quartz countertops with a full backsplash, a Sub-Zero built-in refrigerator/freezer, microwave, dishwasher, stainless-steel sink. The dining area has a Ralph Lauren Baxter metal shade chandelier, bay window, and floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean, two bar stools, and a dining table for four people.
There are three-bedroom options including an oceanfront master bedroom with a king-size bed, a large bedroom with two twin beds with a wall-to-wall panel, and a bedroom with a queen bed.
More suites at Acqualina Resort & Residences.
3. The Peninsula Chicago
The U.S. News take: Occupying prime real estate on Chicago’s coveted Magnificent Mile, The Peninsula Chicago combines Hong Kong’s cosmopolitan flair with the Windy City’s Midwestern charm. Travelers describe the guest rooms as comfortable thanks to their creamy color palette and plush furniture, not to mention their modern techie touches, like a bedside remote command station that controls the lights, television, and room temperatures.
Meanwhile, the renowned Peninsula Spa is in a class by itself, earning The Peninsula Chicago many accolades from health and leisure magazines. Another honorable mention goes to the afternoon tea served in the lobby bar, which visitors say is a nice and welcome touch. During your stay, guests recommend making time for the tasty Cantonese dishes served in the Shanghai Terrace Restaurant. However, for many travelers, it was The Peninsula Chicago’s friendly service staff that convinced them to stay here again.
The Peninsula Suite
Sitting atop the 18th floor over Michigan and Chicago Avenues, the 3,645 sq. ft. Peninsula Suite has been newly refreshed with a contemporary and elegant look that celebrates modern design while preserving timeless artwork and touches of heritage. Expect every amenity, from a baby grand piano to a wrap-around terrace overlooking Lake Michigan. The suite converts from a one- to three-bedroom suite, with the entire wing easily blocked off for guests requiring additional privacy.
More suites at The Peninsula Chicago.
4. The Beverly Hills Hotel
The U.S. News report: The Beverly Hills Hotel is iconic to La-La Land lore, made famous by The Eagles tune “Hotel California.” But the Pink Palace has racked up quite a few fabled stories: Katharine Hepburn is said to have jumped into the pool fully clothed, and Elizabeth Taylor enjoyed six honeymoons here.
Today, this Dorchester Collection hotel continues to cater to discerning travelers with stylish guest rooms (equipped with marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, high-speed internet access, and gourmet minibars), business amenities and a supreme Sunset Boulevard location. Travelers say the customer service is just as legendary as the hotel itself, praising the hotel staff for its attentiveness. And the on-site Polo Lounge is not only known for its celeb-spotting – it’s known for serving up a mean breakfast as well.
Presidential Suite
The 1,935 sq. ft. Presidential Suite features a spacious living room and large balcony overlooking Beverly Hills.
There is a den, dining room, and full kitchen for entertaining, in addition to a luxurious marble bathroom and powder room.
Presidential Bungalow
The 1,835 sq. ft. Presidential Bungalow offers a chef’s kitchen and dining room. The furnished patio features a spacious dining area as well as a waterfall edge swimming pool, and the bungalow’s secluded location ensures privacy. The master bedroom has its own cozy sitting area and spacious bathroom.
More suites and bungalows at The Beverly Hills Hotel.
5. The Langham, Chicago
U.S. News reports: Situated on the banks of the Chicago River and less than a mile from the shopping on The Magnificent Mile, The Langham, Chicago is a hit with recent travelers. Opened in 2013, the hotel impresses guests with its attentive service, quiet location, and riverfront views. Occupying the first 13 floors of a 52-story landmark skyscraper, The Langham, Chicago boasts 316 guest rooms and suites.
Accommodations are outfitted with soaking tubs and rain showers, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi access. Past lodgers compliment the comfy beds and relaxing bathrooms and recommend booking a room with a river view to make the most of the hotel’s location. When you’re not relaxing in your room, you’ll find plenty of other amenities at your fingertips. In addition to the Chuan Spa, the hotel also touts a health club and 67-foot-long indoor pool.
Infinity Suite
The 2,700 sq. ft. Infinity Suite features two bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Formal dining facilities accommodate 10 guests and there is a private butler pantry. An oversized living room with a fireplace and a custom-painted grand piano offer expansive views of the Chicago River and cityscape framed by floor-to-ceiling windows.
More suites at The Langham Chicago.
6. Four Seasons Hotel Washington D.C.
The U.S. News take: The Four Seasons’ enviable location – perched on the edge of Rock Creek Park in D.C.’s chic Georgetown neighborhood – grants beautiful views of the park and easy access to some of the city’s most popular attractions, including the Lincoln Memorial and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. But that’s not all this elegant Four Seasons property has going for it.
Recent guests compliment the hotel’s contemporary accommodations, which come furnished with modern amenities like LCD flat-screen TVs and high-speed internet access. Travelers visiting with kids love that the hotel has Nintendo Wii game consoles available to borrow as well. Guests also exalt Bourbon Steak, the upscale in-house restaurant that regularly plays host to foodies, celebrities, and politicos alike. Another crowd-pleaser: the luxurious on-site spa, which offers a versatile array of lavish massages and body treatments.
Royal Suite
The 4,000 sq. ft. Royal Suite is contemporary yet elegant, with hints of art-deco style. Its private terrace overlooking 29th Street is perfect for entertaining or relaxing.
Work out in privacy with a personal exercise room and unwind in the free-standing oval bathtub or the fully stocked media room.
More suites at Four Seasons Washington D.C.
7. Four Seasons Maui at Wailea
U.S. News reports: This Four Seasons Resort underwent a major renovation in 2016 that has impressed recent visitors. Guests say the staff here is consistently attentive and helpful, too. Guest rooms also receive high praise for their spacious floor plans and private balconies or patios.
What’s more, this Four Seasons outpost is one of Maui’s most kid-friendly locales, offering complimentary kids toiletries, a popular game room, and kid-friendly menus in its four on-site restaurants. Those traveling without little ones can make the most of the resort’s spa and the property’s proximity to three scenic golf courses.
Maile Three-Bedroom Presidential Suite
The 4,000 sq. ft. Maile Presidential Suite features 180-degree ocean views and an outdoor lanai fronting the entire north wing. Front the entire north wing of the 7th floor, there is a full-sized private dry sauna, museum-quality Hawaiian art collection, and an entertainment center with game consoles, an Apple TV, and a Sonos sound system.
Lokelani Presidential Three-Bedroom Suite
The 7,200 sq. ft. includes 4,500 sq. ft. indoors and 2,700 sq. ft. of furnished outdoor living, plus a 1,900 sq. ft. private garden. The home-away-from-home suite is designed for indoor/outdoor beach living. There are three bedrooms – each with a private bathroom – two living rooms, a dining room, and a private garden make it ideal for entertaining friends or spending time with family.
More suites at The Four Seasons Maui at Wailea.
8. The Jefferson, Washington D.C.
The U.S. News take: The Jefferson, Washington, DC has been catering to Washington’s most elite visitors since 1923, providing a taste of European luxury in the heart of the United States capital. The Beaux-Arts era reigns supreme here, with early 20th century paintings and sculptures lining the checkered floors. The Jefferson’s elegant accommodations are appointed with iPads, walk-in showers, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi access.
Recent guests highly recommend making good use of the intimate on-site spa during your stay, and the in-house gourmet restaurants, Plume and The Greenhouse earn particularly high praise, along with the on-site bar, Quill. Visitors also give props for The Jefferson’s location, which is just a short walk from the National Mall.
The Presidential Suite
The 2,300 sq. ft. Presidential Suite features five Juliet balconies, each providing quintessential Washington D.C. landmarks.
More suites at The Jefferson, Washington D.C.
9. Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
The U.S. News view: About a 30-minute drive north of San Diego, Rancho Valencia is a little off the beaten path. But that’s why people love it. This Relais & Châteaux property brims with carefully manicured greenery on top of plenty of amenities and activities to woo any type of traveler.
Accommodations exude a Mediterranean ambiance with hacienda-style architecture, hardwood furnishings, and colorful design accents, as well as deep-soaking tubs and private balconies or patios. For pampering, Rancho Valencia’s spa offers indulgences such as herb-infused body wraps and a variety of massage therapies. The delicious cuisine served at the on-site Veladora restaurant complements the serene environment.
The Hacienda
At 5,000 sq. ft., The Hacienda is an adobe-style home with a private pool, outdoor jacuzzi, five fireplaces, and plenty of privacy. Three King bed suites each with separate entry, garden patio, wood-burning fireplace, and deluxe private bath.
There is a full kitchen with Viking appliances and a dining alcove. The spacious living room with a large fireplace overlooks a private patio. An outdoor dining cabana with a grill, fireplace, and a large table for entertaining.
Three-Bedroom Villa
The 3,500 sq. ft. Three-Bedroom Villa comes with three-and-one-half baths, a private outdoor terrace and a jetted outdoor hot tub, indoor and outdoor fireplaces, dining areas and grill, and a fully equipped gourmet kitchen with Viking appliances.
More villas and suites at Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa.
10. The Inn & Club at Harbour Resort – The Sea Pines Resort
U.S. News says: The stunning Harbour Town area is a great place to station yourself during a Hilton Head trip. And its standout accommodations, The Inn & Club at Harbour Town (part of The Sea Pines Resort), is certainly one of the most popular resorts on the island.
Guests who choose to make the (somewhat long) trek here delight in the lush scenery, the luxurious rooms, and the professional, approachable, and welcoming staff. Rooms come with large flat-screen TVs, blackout-lined window treatments, and spacious bathrooms with soaking tubs and luxury toiletries. Visitors also appreciate the numerous on-site dining options.
Fairway Suite
The Fairway Suite offers two spacious master bedrooms, large private baths, and a living room salon that is well-suited for executive gatherings or entertaining. The suite’s full kitchenette includes a full-sized stainless steel refrigerator, dishwasher, coffeemaker, and microwave-everything you might require for entertaining guests. Doors open from the living area onto a private covered terrace overlooking the 9th fairway of Harbour Town Golf Links and a Lowcountry landscape of mossy oaks and Carolina pines.
More accommodations at The Inn & Club at Harbour Resort.
