Alila Ventana Big Sur (California)
Situated on a stunning piece of cliff overlooking the Pacific Coast, Alila Ventana Big Sur boasts 160 unspoiled acres in famed Big Sur. And, with only 54 rooms, you’ll have plenty of space to roam uninterrupted by another soul. While the food here is certainly a major draw (much comes from the on-site organic garden), other reasons to book a trip include a spa inspired by both Indonesian and European techniques; and activities like astrology readings, falconry, and beekeeping.
Blackberry Mountain (Tennessee)
The younger sister to Blackberry Farm in Walland, Blackberry Mountain distinguishes itself with more wellness-focused programming without sacrificing any of the delicious meals for which the brand is known. The 5,200-acre property invites visitors to explore via hiking, biking, and climbing activities, but you’ll be excused if you’d rather cozy up at on-site spa Nest. This resort also wins points for its stunning design: Rooms vary from traditional cabins to the chicest treehouses you’ve ever seen.
Grand Hotel (Michigan)
It’s an understatement to say that Mackinac Island is a trip to a bygone era: Just check out the horse-drawn carriages trundling down Main Street. But for an even bigger time warp, book a room at the famed Grand Hotel, which celebrates its 138th season this year. Known equally for its kaleidoscopic guest rooms as its wide range of restaurants, the all-inclusive resort is one of our favorite family vacation spots. Options at the Woodlands Activity Center include mini-golf, pickleball, and bike rentals, while the Jewel Golf Course is the only one in America with horse-drawn carriage rides between holes.
C Lazy U Ranch (Colorado)
For an all-inclusive vacation the whole family will love, nothing will tick more boxes than a dude ranch. And C Lazy U Ranch is more than cowboy hats and pony rides: This is an 8,500-acre spread with 200 horses and a on-site sommelier. We’re big fans of the luxe cabin rooms, complete with wood-burning fireplaces—plus the abundance of activities, like archery, mountain biking, trap shooting, and an amazing children’s program.
Castle Hot Springs (Arizona)
Only 50 miles from Phoenix—but a world apart as far as vibes go—lies Castle Hot Springs, one of the Southwest’s most famed and historic spa resorts. Situated in the peaceful Sonoran Desert, the small, 30-room property is best known, naturally, for its on-site and restorative geo-thermal hot springs. But the hotel is also notable for its deep bench of included programming, with activities ranging from guided hiking and paddle board yoga to axe throwing. Included in the rate are all of your meals, of course, but we’re particularly impressed with the hyper-seasonal multi-course dinner menu that changes every night.
The Chatwal Lodge (New York)
Located in New York’s peaceful Catskills is this boutique property, with rooms featuring thoughtful touches like carved wood bed frames and light fixtures made from barn beams. New this year at The Chatwal Lodge are luxury treehouses, and launching later this season is the resort’s new pool and spa complex. Family-friendly activities here veer towards the outdoors, of course, with offerings like fly fishing, bird-watching, and croquet—but don’t miss the recreation lodge, complete with an indoor bowling alley, shuffleboard, and movie theater. We also love that the included meals can be served not just in the restaurant, but also in your room, or even picnic-style.
The Green O (Montana)
Looking to find your inner kid, but you know, without your kids there? Book a trip to The Green O, an adults-only boutique property located on the southern edge of Paws Up Ranch. With only 12 rooms (or “hauses”) that resemble futuristic treehouses, a stay here also includes activities like ATV rides, cattle drives, or snow tubing with a snowmobile chauffeur. All meals are included, of course, and the food here is legendary, thanks to the deft hand of 2024 James Beard Award finalist, executive chef Brandon Cunningham.
The Swag (North Carolina)
About 40 minutes west of Asheville lies The Swag, one of North Carolina’s best spots to relax, explore, and eat darn good food. With a private entrance into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, hiking should definitely be on your to-do list, but make sure you’re home in time for cocktail hour, when new friends become family over drinks and collaborative jigsaw puzzling. We also love the hotel’s unique expert-in-residence program, which gives guests a chance to chat with everyone from artists to park rangers.
The Point (New York)
Once the “Great Camp” home of William Avery Rockefeller II, The Point has since been reimagined as an intimate 11-room luxury resort, nestled deep in the heart of the Adirondacks on Saranac Lake. This is where you go to truly disconnect—there is very limited WiFi and no TVs—and enjoy the outdoors by kayaking, waterskiing, and boating. The attentive staff can also arrange lakeside picnics or rock climbing in the High Peaks, all at no additional cost. Plus, unlike other all-inclusives, the rate here includes 24-hour access to premium wines and liquor courtesy of the many bars scattered across the property. Try to book your stay around one of the black-tie dinners—it’s akin to taking a time machine to the 1920s.
San Ysidro Ranch (California)
One of our favorite escapes from L.A. is this charming property in Santa Barbara, tucked into the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains. And considering there are only 38 cottages at San Ysidro Ranch (each with a fireplace and private backyard garden), there’s much to explore here, from lauded restaurants and an on-site speakeasy to a rejuvenating spa and tranquil pool. The new all-inclusive dining model is also notable for its luxe spin: Dinners can include caviar, lobster, and wagyu.
Lone Mountain Ranch (Montana)
A former cattle ranch and boys’ camp, Lone Mountain Ranch was transformed into a small luxury resort about 10 years ago. The all-inclusive rate includes your stay in one of 25 log cabins, plus activities like cross-country skiing in the winter or fly-fishing Montana’s famed rivers for trout in the warmer months. And, at less than 20 miles from Yellowstone National Park, you’re forgiven if you venture away from the property for a day trip. But make sure you’re home for the evening meal, when restaurant Horn & Cantle serves cheffed-up takes on Montana cuisine. (In the winter, it even hosts sleigh-ride dinners. Swoon.)
Dunton Hot Springs (Colorado)
Set against the backdrop of the towering San Juan Mountain, the Relais & Chateaux property of Dunton Hot Springs is a former mining town that’s been transformed into a boutique luxury resort. With only 13 log cabin accommodations (plus one luxury tent), it almost feels as if you’re staying on a private compound. Included activities range from horseback riding to fly fishing, and you’ll certainly want to take many a dip at the on-site natural hot springs, which can be enjoyed inside the restored 19th-century bathhouse or in the source itself. Like all Relais properties, the cuisine here is fantastic, and dining at the long antique table at the Saloon is a great way to make new friends.
Club Getaway (Connecticut)
One of the more affordable options for all-inclusive properties in the US is Club Getaway, a resort that bills itself as summer camp for adults and families. Groups can snag country cabins that fit up to six people, or solo “campers” can opt for shared spaces. Activities at the lush, 300-acre property include zip-lining, stand-up paddle boarding, and even sky-cycling—which is, yes, riding a bike in the sky. Entertainment-wise, each season offers plenty of themed dinners, DJ dance parties, and talent shows.
Hemlock Neversink (New York)
Another affordable option for all-inclusives is Foster Supply Hospitality’s newest property in the Sullivan Catskills. Hemlock Neversink is foremost a wellness property, as it sits on the site of the old New Age Health Spa. Guests are encouraged to hike the winding trails, indulge at the nature-influenced spa, and, of course, enjoy the plant-based cuisine at the on-site restaurant. Make sure to step outside at night: The property is illuminated by dark sky-approved lighting, making stargazing here unforgettable.
Magee Homestead (Wyoming)
There are luxury ranches and then there’s Magee Homestead. The adults-only Relais & Châteaux property is part of the larger Brush Creek Ranch complex, but with only nine rustic cabins, it’s a decidedly more intimate experience. Personalization is key here, whether it’s your dinner order or choosing from activities like fly-fishing or horseback riding on 50-plus miles of private trails.
Mii amo (Arizona)
Sedona is one of the country’s capitals for wellness, and one of its most famed properties is Mii amo: a destination spa that’s just reopened after a $40 million renovation. Part of what sets this property apart are its “Journeys,” which range from three to 10 nights and help guests engage in physical and spiritual relaxation. Also new post-renovation are unique spa services—like massages, facials, and meditations based on the celestial cycles—and programming like aura photography and astrology readings.
Miraval Berkshires (Massachusetts)
Located in the lush Berkshires region of Massachusetts, Miraval Berkshires is one of the East Coast’s most buzzed-about destination spas, both due to its stellar food (not always a given at these sorts of properties) and deep bench of programming. A day here can have you bouncing from cooking class to the famed spa to meditation, but always with a sense of zen. We also love the hotel’s rules against electronic devices in most public areas, which helps guests fully unplug.
The Ranch at Rock Creek (Montana)
Holding court on 6,600 acres of land at the far reaches of Philipsburg, Montana, The Ranch at Rock Creek is where to head when you want seclusion with a side of adventure. The family-friendly property is notable for its long roster of activities, which range from sporting clay shooting to the more unusual sapphire mining. Bed down for the night in a suite at The Granite Lodge, or—for something a little more rustic—there are also log and canvas cabin options available. And don’t miss meal time: It’s a celebration of Montana’s farm-to-table ethos and an excellent time to make new friends.
Triple Creek Ranch (Montana)
For a ranch experience that feels like you’re staying with family, book a room at Triple Creek Ranch, located in the gorgeous surrounds of Montana’s Bitterroot Valley. Known equally for its stellar cuisine as its staff’s hospitality, a trip here can include anything from downhill skiing and mountain biking to restorative sessions of yoga and guided meditation. We also love that this property curates special events during the year, like vintner weekends with winemakers or live music performances, all of which come at no extra cost.
Twin Farms (Vermont)
One of New England’s most beloved boutique properties is this jewel in Barnard, Vermont, which just unveiled eight new treehouse accommodations. Perhaps best-known as a culinary destination (don’t miss the pancakes), Twin Farms is also notable for its museum-quality art around the property, wide array of activities (private ski mountain, anyone?), and gorgeous, on-site Copper Pond. Our favorite feature might be the beautiful Japanese furo, a cedar-clad bathhouse that’s the ultimate way to unplug and recharge.
Juliet Izon is a New York-based freelance writer who focuses on travel, food, interior design, and entertainment.
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