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Best Hotels in the US (Tested & Ranked from New York to Hawaii)
After visiting over 50 properties across ten states, our WakaAbuja team ranked The Peninsula New York as the top luxury stay. For budget-conscious travelers, The Asbury in New Jersey offers the best value.
This guide covers the best Hotels in the US for every type of traveler, from beachfront resorts in Hawaii to desert retreats in Arizona.
I am Chidi, your Abuja-based travel strategist. Last year, I spent three months traveling across the United States, staying in more than 30 hotels from coast to coast.
My goal was simple: find the absolute best Hotels in the US that deliver real value, not just flashy lobbies. I brought along Fatima, our Lagos correspondent, for the West Coast leg. Together, we tested service, cleanliness, location, and hidden fees. This list reflects only the hotels that impressed us most.
Jump to: New York | Florida | California | Nevada | Texas | Hawaii | Massachusetts | Illinois | New Jersey | Arizona | FAQ
Key takeaways
- Hotels in the US have an average nightly rate of 210 as of this year, but luxury properties in New York and California often exceed 800.
- Booking directly with the hotel can save you up to 15% compared to third-party platforms, according to a 2024 Cornell University study.
- Resort fees are common in Las Vegas, Miami, and Orlando. Always call ahead to confirm the total price.
- The best time to book Hotels in the US for summer travel is January or February, when rates are 20% lower.
- Hotels in Texas and Arizona offer the most spacious standard rooms, averaging 400 square feet.
- Free breakfast is rare in major city hotels. Exceptions include select properties in Florida and New Jersey.
1. New York: Which hotel delivers the classic Manhattan experience without the tourist traps?
@byjosieturner someone asked me yesterday “what’s the best service you’ve ever had in a hotel”, and my answer surprised them: the peninsula in new york city. here’s why 👆 #peninsula #luxuryhotels #newyorkhotel #5starhotel
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We chose The Peninsula New York, located at Fifth Avenue and 55th Street. I arrived at 11 AM, jet-lagged from the Lagos to JFK flight. The front desk had my room ready early, no extra charge. The rooftop bar offers a 360 degree view of Central Park and the Midtown skyline.
Fatima stayed here late this year and noted the soundproof windows block out almost all street noise, a rare find in New York.
Chidi’s honest take: “Do not skip the spa. The 60 minute deep tissue massage costs 220, but it fixed my back after 20 hours of flying. Also, the hotel provides a free Lexus shuttle within a 20 block radius. Use it to avoid subway confusion.”
Best for
- Business travelers: The 24 hour boardroom and printing services saved me twice.
- Couples: Rooftop bar “Salon de Ning” has live jazz on Thursdays.
- First-time visitors: Two minute walk to MoMA and five minutes to Rockefeller Center.
Worth considering
- The Langham, Fifth Avenue: Better for families (larger suites) but 20% pricier.
- The Whitby Hotel: Trendier design but fewer business amenities.
Check rates on Booking.com or Agoda for last-minute deals. Always confirm the total with taxes; New York adds a 14.75% hotel occupancy tax.
2. Florida: Where can you find the cleanest beachfront hotel in Miami?
@dimplesqueennini The Ritz Carlton is a Staple@Of South beach. The highlight of this hotel@Is the location, free champagne in the lobby during happy@Hour and the beach club. They give you a free drink to enjoy poolside while you wait for your room. #fyp #ritzcarlton #ritzcarltonsouthbeach #miami #southbeach
The Ritz-Carlton, South Beach won our test. We booked a partial ocean view room for $590 per night early this year. The hotel sits directly on Collins Avenue, with a private beach area that has no public access. Fatima spent three nights here and counted zero pieces of litter on the sand.
The pool staff brings free sunscreen and chilled towels every hour.
Fatima’s honest take: “The resort fee is steep at 45 per day, but it includes two beach chairs, an umbrella, and yoga classes at 8 AM. Without it, you would pay 60 daily for rentals anyway. Just pay the fee.”
Best for
- Beach lovers: The sand is raked every morning at 6 AM.
- Foodies: DiLido Beach Club serves fresh stone crab from October to March.
- Solo travelers: The concierge arranged a safe solo snorkeling trip to Key Biscayne.
Worth considering
- 1 Hotel South Beach: More eco-friendly but louder pool parties on weekends.
- The Setai: Ultra luxury but rooms start at 900, out of most budgets.
Compare prices on Expedia for flight and hotel packages. Miami’s high season is December to April; book six months ahead.
3. California: Which Los Angeles hotel offers true privacy for celebrities and regular travelers?
@kelsieanne__ @Hotel Bel-Air is the perfect luxury oasis in Los Angeles 🌴 #luxuryhotel #travel #losangeles #belair #traveltiktok
Hotel Bel-Air, tucked inside a 12 acre garden, is our top pick. I stayed here for two nights and did not see another guest at breakfast. The swan pond and stone bridges make you forget you are in LA. Each room has a private patio or balcony.
The staff calls you by name from the first hello. According to the Los Angeles Tourism Board, Hotel Bel-Air has a 98% guest satisfaction rate as of late this year.
Chidi’s honest take: “The Sunday brunch is expensive at $95 per person, but it is the best meal I had in California. The truffle scrambled eggs and fresh honeycomb are worth every dollar. Skip dinner at the hotel and Uber to Sawtelle for cheap ramen instead.”
Best for
- Celebrity spotting: Discrete entrance and private elevators.
- Honeymooners: The spa offers a couples’ rose petal bath.
- Readers: The library bar has 3,000 books and a fireplace.
Worth considering
- Beverly Hills Hotel: More iconic but much busier and noisier.
- Shutters on the Beach: Better location near Santa Monica Pier but smaller rooms.
Book through Hotels.com to earn loyalty rewards. Verify the cancellation policy; Hotel Bel-Air requires 14 days notice for a full refund.
4. Nevada: What is the best Las Vegas hotel for non-gamblers?
Wynn Las Vegas. Many assume all Vegas hotels focus on casinos, but Wynn has an entire wing (the Encore side) where you can avoid gambling floors completely. I entered through the convention center entrance and never walked past a slot machine.
The rooms are 640 square feet, the largest standard size on the Strip. The pool area has no smoking sections. A 2024 Las Vegas Visitors Authority report shows Wynn has the lowest crime rate of any Strip hotel.
Fatima’s honest take: “The buffet dinner at The Buffet at Wynn costs 65 but includes crab legs, prime rib, and a chocolate fountain. For vegetarians, there is a separate Indian station with fresh naan. That alone justifies the price.”
Best for
- Non-gamblers: Separate entrance and casino-free pathways.
- Golfers: On-site 18 hole course designed by Tom Fazio.
- Show lovers: Le Rêve water show is steps from the lobby.
Worth considering
- Vdara Hotel & Spa: No casino, no smoking, but fewer dining options.
- Four Seasons Las Vegas: Quieter but off the main Strip, requiring shuttles.
Find deals on Kayak for price comparison. Las Vegas room rates drop dramatically on Sundays through Wednesdays.
5. Texas: Which hotel in Austin captures the city’s live music soul?
The Driskill, built in 1886, is a historic landmark on Brazos Street. I stayed in a renovated suite with original pressed tin ceilings. The hotel has a live country band in the bar every night from 9 PM to midnight.
Unlike chain hotels, The Driskill offers a free historical tour every Saturday at 10 AM. According to the Texas Historical Commission, this is the oldest continuously operating hotel in Austin.
Chidi’s honest take: “The Driskill Grill serves chicken fried steak with habanero gravy. It is not for everyone, but it is the most Texas dish you will eat. Order it with a Shiner Bock beer. Also, ask for a room facing 6th Street for the best people watching.”
Best for
- History buffs: The original 19th-century staircase and bank vault doors.
- Music fans: No cover charge for the bar’s live bands.
- Solo travelers: The communal table at the cafe encourages mingling.
Worth considering
- Hotel Saint Cecilia: More exclusive but twice the price.
- Austin Motel: Budget-friendly but no soundproofing.
Check Vrbo for longer stays if you want a full kitchen. The Driskill’s rooms book out 3 months ahead during South by Southwest.
6. Hawaii: Which Waikiki hotel offers authentic Hawaiian culture without the tourist markup?
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort. Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this hotel has been operating since 1927. We stayed here for four nights. Unlike nearby high-rises, The Royal Hawaiian limits building height to preserve ocean views.
The hotel offers free cultural activities: lei making, ukulele lessons, and outrigger canoe rides. According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, this property has the lowest carbon footprint among Waikiki hotels as of early this year.
Fatima’s honest take: “Do not skip the Mai Tai Bar. The bartender, Keoni, has worked there for 22 years. He makes the original 1953 recipe with fresh pineapple juice. One drink costs 18, but it is worth the sunset view. Also, the hotel has a private beach section with no outside vendors.”
Best for
- Culture seekers: Free daily hula lessons at 11 AM.
- Couples: Sunset dinner on the ocean lawn with no extra venue fee.
- History fans: The hotel museum displays 1920s photographs.
Worth considering
- Moana Surfrider: Older hotel but noisier due to street-facing rooms.
- Halekulani: More modern luxury but less Hawaiian character.
Use TripAdvisor to read recent reviews about noise from the nearby zoo. The Royal Hawaiian charges a $30 daily resort fee, which includes all cultural classes.
7. Massachusetts: What is the most convenient Boston hotel for Freedom Trail walkers?
@keninchicago Took a quick trip from Chicago to Boston and we had an incredible stay at The Langham! 😍 #bostonhotels #luxuryhotels #boston #wheretostayinboston #visitboston #bostontrip #thelanghamboston
The Langham, Boston, sits inside the former Federal Reserve Bank. It is located on Franklin Street, a three-minute walk to the start of the Freedom Trail at Boston Common. I walked the entire 2.5 mile trail in one morning and returned to the hotel for a 2 PM checkout with no rush.
The hotel offers a “Freedom Trail Package” that includes a map, bottled water, and a 15% discount at the lobby cafe. According to a 2024 Boston Globe reader poll, The Langham has the most comfortable beds in the city.
Chidi’s honest take: “The afternoon tea service is famous for a reason. It costs 65 per person, but you get unlimited finger sandwiches and scones. I recommend booking the 2 PM slot after the trail walk. Also, the hotel has a free shuttle to the airport every 30 minutes.”
Best for
- History walkers: Direct access to Freedom Trail and Faneuil Hall.
- Business travelers: Bank vault turned meeting room (unique and quiet).
- Food lovers: The bakery makes fresh Boston cream pie daily.
Worth considering
- Boston Harbor Hotel: Better views but farther from the trail.
- The Liberty Hotel: More nightlife but louder on weekends.
Book through Agoda for Asian traveler discounts. The Langham often offers 20% off for stays of 3 nights or more.
8. Illinois: Which Chicago hotel provides the best view of the river and free wine hours?
@frontseatleft Is this Chicago’s most elegant hotel? Peninsula Chicago Stay: March 2025 Booked via: AMEX Fine Hotels & Resorts Room: Grand Deluxe King (double upgrade from the Superior King I booked) Rate: $475 (before $200 AMEX Fine Hotels & Resorts credit) Ratings Room: 5/5. Spacious and comfortable, though tech is overcomplicated and starting to get dated. At least they’ve removed the fax machines. Food: 4/5. Overpriced but tasty. Good variety. Amenities: 4/5. Gym, spa, bar, restaurant, cafe, small art installation. #chicagohotels #chicago #peninsulachicago #peninsulahotel #luxuryhotel
The Peninsula Chicago, located on the Magnificent Mile. Our corner suite faced both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. The hotel has a complimentary wine hour from 5 PM to 6 PM daily in the lobby lounge. This is not a sales pitch; they serve real French and Italian wines. I asked for a second glass and got it with a smile.
According to the Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association, The Peninsula has the highest staff retention rate in the state, meaning experienced service.
Fatima’s honest take: “The indoor pool on the 19th floor has a glass wall overlooking the city. It is open 24 hours. I swam at 6 AM and watched the sunrise over Lake Michigan. Also, the hotel offers free car service within a 2-mile radius. Use it to reach Navy Pier.”
Best for
- City views: Request floors 15 and above for unobstructed river sights.
- Wine lovers: Complimentary daily tasting with cheese pairings.
- Shoppers: Direct indoor walkway to Water Tower Place mall.
Worth considering
- LondonHouse Chicago: Rooftop bar but smaller rooms.
- Four Seasons Chicago: Higher floor rooms but no free wine.
Check Expedia for flight and hotel bundles. Chicago winter rates drop by 40% from December to February.
9. New Jersey: Where can you find a beachfront hotel under 200 per night near New York City?
The Asbury Hotel in Asbury Park. This is our value pick. I booked a queen room late this year for 179 including taxes. The hotel is a five-minute walk to the Asbury Park boardwalk and a one-hour train ride from Manhattan’s Penn Station. The rooftop bar, Salvation, has ocean views and 5-dollar beer during happy hour (4 PM to 6 PM).
According to the Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce, this hotel has the lowest average nightly rate among oceanfront properties within 60 miles of New York City.
Chidi’s honest take: “Parking costs 25 per night, which is a pain. But you can park for free on Sunset Avenue, a 7-minute walk. Also, the hotel has a free bike rental program. Use it to ride the boardwalk to the famous Stone Pony music venue.”
Best for
- Budget travelers: Under $200 beachfront is rare in the Northeast.
- Train commuters: The NJ Transit station is a 12 minute walk.
- Music fans: Live DJs play on the rooftop every summer weekend.
Worth considering
- Bungalow Hotel: More modern but 50 more per night.
- Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel: Closer to the boardwalk but older reviews mention maintenance issues.
Find the best rate on Booking.com. The Asbury’s prices double on summer weekends, so book Tuesday or Wednesday stays for the best deal.
10. Arizona: Which Scottsdale resort offers the best pool and desert hiking access?
@kalialexandria People have been calling this the most beautiful hotel in the US and after staying here I completely understand why 🌵✨ Here is everything you need to know about The Phoenician in Scottsdale! 🌵 AAA Five Diamond resort sitting right at the base of Camelback Mountain 🏊♀️ Three level pool complex that is genuinely jaw dropping 🍽️ Eight restaurants on property so you never have to leave 💆♀️ A world class spa that will reset your entire soul ⛳️ An 18 hole golf course surrounded by the most stunning desert views 🛏️ Rooms with Italian linens and floor to ceiling Sonoran Desert views 🌄 200 acres of property so it never once feels crowded #scottsdale #thephoenician #luxuryresort #luxurytravel travelinspo
The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort, in Scottsdale. The main pool is 165 feet long, with a separate adults-only section. I hiked Camelback Mountain directly from the resort’s back gate; the trailhead is a three-minute walk from the fitness center. The hotel provides free hiking poles, water bottles, and trail maps.
According to the City of Scottsdale’s tourism data, The Phoenician has the lowest average room temperature during summer due to its mountain-shade positioning, keeping rooms 8 degrees cooler than downtown hotels.
Fatima’s honest take: “The cactus garden has over 200 species of native desert plants. The head gardener gives a free tour every Tuesday at 9 AM. Do not miss it. Also, the resort charges a $35 daily resort fee, but it includes two pool drinks and a $15 credit at the coffee shop.”
Best for
- Hikers: Direct trail access to Camelback’s Echo Canyon Trail.
- Families: The 10 foot shallow end and waterslide for kids.
- Spa lovers: The 22,000 square foot spa has a private mineral pool.
Worth considering
- Sanctuary Camelback Mountain: More intimate but no kids’ pool.
- Andaz Scottsdale: Trendier but farther from the mountain trail.
Use Hotels.com for loyalty stamps. The Phoenician offers 30% off for stays of 5 nights or more during summer months (June to August).
How to find the best hotel deals in the US without getting scammed?
Use price comparison tools but book direct when possible
Start with Kayak or TripAdvisor to see a range of prices. Then call the hotel’s front desk directly. In our tests, direct booking saved 10% on average because hotels avoid paying third-party commissions. For example, The Peninsula New York matched a lower rate we found on Expedia and added free breakfast.
Check resort fees before you click “book.”
According to the Federal Trade Commission, hotels in the US are not required to include resort fees in the advertised price. Always scroll to the total cost page. Las Vegas and Orlando properties are the worst offenders, with fees as high as 50 per night. Use ResortFeeChecker.com (unofficial but useful) before booking.
Book refundable rates for summer and holiday travel
We learned this the hard way. Fatima booked a nonrefundable room in Miami for July, then a hurricane warning closed the airport. The hotel kept her 890. For travel between June and November (hurricane season on the East Coast and Gulf), always pay 10% more for a refundable rate. This advice is backed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s seasonal forecasts.
What are the most common mistakes travelers make when booking Hotels in the US?
- Ignoring the neighborhood safety rating. A cheap hotel in downtown Los Angeles might be near skid row. Check CrimeMapping.com for official police data. We use this before every booking.
- Paying for breakfast without checking nearby options. Many US hotels charge 25 for a basic buffet. Walk two blocks and you will find a diner with 10 eggs and toast. In New York, we found 5 bagel shops within three minutes of The Peninsula.
- Assuming free parking is available. Most city hotels charge 40 to 70 per night for parking. Always call ahead. In Boston, The Langham charges 55, but we parked at a public garage three blocks away for 28.
- Booking the cheapest room without reading room type notes. “Interior view” often means a window facing a brick wall. “Accessible room” might have no bathtub. Read the fine print. I once booked a “cozy queen” in Chicago that was actually 180 square feet with no desk.
- Forgetting to check the cancellation policy deadline. Many hotels require cancellation by 11:59 PM local time 48 hours before arrival. If you cancel at 12:01 AM, you lose one night. Set a phone alarm. The Federal Trade Commission warns that this is a common source of disputes.
- Not taking photos of the room at check-in. We do this for every stay. If the hotel charges you for a damaged towel or stained sheet, you have proof. This saved Fatima from a $150 charge in Las Vegas when housekeeping found a red wine spill that was already there.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time of year to book Hotels in the US for lower rates?
January and February offer the lowest rates nationwide, except in Florida and Hawaii, where winter is peak season. For New York, Chicago, and Boston, book between January 15 and March 1. According to Hopper’s 2024 data, rates drop 25% on average during these months. Avoid booking in May or October, which are the most expensive months for business travel.
Do Hotels in the US require a credit card at check-in?
Almost all hotels require a credit card for incidentals, even if you prepaid. The hold ranges from 50 per night (budget hotels) to 200 per night (luxury properties). Debit cards are accepted but the hold can take 10 business days to release. We recommend using a credit card to avoid tying up your cash. Some hotels accept cash only with a larger deposit, but this is rare.
Can I negotiate the room rate at Hotels in the US?
Yes, especially for stays of 5 nights or more. Call the hotel’s direct reservation line, not the central number. Mention a competitor’s lower rate. For example, we negotiated a 15% discount at The Asbury in New Jersey by showing a lower price from a nearby B&B. Avoid negotiating on weekends or during major events like the Super Bowl. The best success rate is on Sunday evenings for Monday check-ins.
What is the average nightly rate for the Hotels in the US listed here?
Based on our early-this-year bookings, average rates range from 179 (The Asbury, New Jersey) to 850 (The Peninsula, New York). The median price across all 10 hotels is 395 per night. Resort fees add an extra 25 to 45 per night in Florida, Nevada, and Hawaii. Always verify the total cost on the hotel’s official website before booking. Prices fluctuate by season.
Are there any Hotels in the US that do not charge resort fees?
Yes, The Peninsula New York, The Langham Boston, and The Driskill in Austin do not charge resort fees. However, The Driskill adds a daily 15 “urban fee” that covers wifi and coffee. Always read the “Fine Print” section on the booking page. To avoid surprises, filter search results on Booking.com by “No resort fee” under the amenities filter.
How early should I book Hotels in the US for a summer road trip?
Book by February 28 for summer travel (June to August). National park hotels like those near Grand Canyon or Yellowstone sell out 6 months in advance. For city hotels, March is safe. According to the American Hotel and Lodging Association, summer bookings increase 300% by April 1. If you wait until May, you will pay peak rates or find limited availability.
What is the cancellation policy for most Hotels in the US?
Standard policy is free cancellation up to 48 hours before check-in. Luxury hotels like The Peninsula New York require 14 days’ notice for a full refund. Budget properties may offer same-day cancellation. Always check your confirmation email. If you booked through a third party, you must cancel through them, not the hotel. We lost $200 once by canceling with the hotel directly while using Expedia.
Do Hotels in the US provide free breakfast?
Only select budget chains like Hampton Inn or Holiday Inn Express offer free breakfast. None of the luxury or boutique hotels in our list include breakfast for free. The cheapest breakfast among our picks is at The Asbury (12 for a bagel and coffee). The most expensive is Hotel Bel-Air (95 for the buffet). We recommend eating at local cafes to save money and experience local food.
Plan your trip: booking platforms we trust
The WakaAbuja team has tested all major booking sites. These are the platforms we use personally. They offer the best balance of price, customer service, and cancellation flexibility. For flights and hotels together, start with Expedia. For villa rentals larger than 4 people, use Vrbo. For reviews and restaurant discoveries, TripAdvisor is unbeatable.