Castle Hill Inn

The recently re-opened, historic White Hart Inn, located right on the town green in Salisbury, Connecticut, is poised to retake its place as a central fixture of town life after closing for five years. For one, the historic Tap Room will once again serve local spirits, as it has for literally two centuries. Plus, the new restaurant will lean heavily on local produce from nearby farms and growers. While there’s plenty to see and do in the Connecticut countryside, the Inn itself is set up to provide a cozy, luxurious getaway should you choose to spend most of your time reading in your room. If you want to get out, you can walk to the Appalachian Trail straight from the inn, so bring your hiking boots. The beautiful Bash Bish falls are also within striking distance: You’ll be in Hudson River School country, so breathtaking views are a given. There's always a lot of fun, family friendly stuff going on in the nearby villages (hay rides, animal judging, iron skillet tosses), and great antiquing and shopping. Privet House, owned by Richard Lambertson (of Lambertson Truex), is particularly wonderful. Meanwhile, British Chef Annie Wayte of Nicole’s and Café 202 fame is taking the helm at the restaurant. For this new venture, she’s logged some serious time in the vicinity building a network of local farms where she’ll be sourcing all her ingredients.

For hard-earned weekend getaways, hop on MetroNorth to find yourself in the midst of this historic properties’ rustic grounds in little more than an hour. The eight, surprisingly spacious rooms (many have exposed beams, reclaimed wood furniture, and walk-in showers) are outfitted with all the modern trappings of a luxury hotel—Frette sheets, claw-foot tubs, and a room service menu—without sacrificing the inn’s understated aesthetic. Pry yourself from the comfort of your plush bed and working fireplace to take advantage of on-site yoga and other wellness-centric happening (guests can enjoy complimentary classes). For casual snacking and relaxed farm-to-table meals, The Barn serves up a seasonal menu in a no-frills, homey atmosphere. For a more inventive dining experience, head to Altamarea Group’s Italian eatery Campagna, where you can feast on a la carte, hand-made pasta dishes or a thoughtful prix fix menu designed by award-winning chef and restauranteur, Michael White.

The Mayflower Inn & Spa is one of those resorts that is a consistent siren song for worn-out New Yorkers. Overstuffed chairs, feather-topped beds, and softly printed toile wallpapers are design hallmarks here, which all add to the feeling that you’ve descended upon the guestroom of your most hospitable aunt. In short: You won’t want to leave. The spa is one of Connecticut's best, though for those who are more inclined to be outside, the resort sits on 58 acres. There’s a tap room for casual eats, as well as a more formal restaurant, The Mayflower Dining Room. There's plenty of antiquing and good eating in the surrounding villages. (Don't miss Privet House.)

Originally a country home for journalist Dorothy Thompson and her novelist husband Sinclair Lewis, this adults-only, all-inclusive luxury hotel still has the feel of a bohemian writer’s retreat. Woodsy, outdoor activities including cycling, canoeing, and picnicking (skiing in the winter) are all on offer. Indoors, Twin Farms’ art collection, which includes pieces from David Hockney and Jasper Johns, is outstanding. You’ll find ten individually themed cottages dotted throughout the Vermont forest, which means that you might end up in a fisherman’s lodge, or a Moroccan respite with mosaics and a tented ceiling. Meanwhile, the chef prepares a fresh, set menu daily, and consults you on your preferences before you arrive. The customized meals and wine pairings are part of the all-inclusive package. You can eat at the Main House, or in your cottage. Take note: This is a special place for a romantic getaway, not for kids.

Admittedly not one of the most exciting getaway options, the Ritz in Naples is a classic, large-scale resort experience without the international flight. You can check in and pretty much never leave, with seven different dining options, beach sports, extensive spa and a really great kids program called ‘Nature’s Wonders’ that features an in-house aquarium and classes on natural sciences, sea creatures, and ecosystems for ages five to twelve years old.

Lush tropical plants tower over the thatched-roof bungalows on the private white sand beach of this luxury resort on Little Palm Island. No phones, TVs, or kids under sixteen make it a romantic, secluded retreat with not much else to do besides lounge or learn how to deep sea fish or sky dive. The resort’s SpaTerre offers delicious sounding treatments inspired by the area, like coconut sugar scrubs and margarita-infused pedicures. They also offer massages on the beach for optimal relaxation.

This place oozes Nantucket-style, shingle-lodge B&B charm—only you’re on the beach in Florida. Small antique-y rooms feature oversized tubs and flannel blankets while rocking chairs are set up in front of a brick–lined fireplace in the reception room where you can take your evening drink and hors d’oeuvres during social hour. The ‘innkeepers’ make you feel like you’re a guest in their house, and we hear the homestyle breakfast is a real highlight.

Originally built in 1901, Blantyre was modeled after the owner’s family’s ancestral Scottish castle, complete with ivy-covered turrets, towers, and gargoyles. It didn’t become a hotel until 1981, when the house was restored by Ann Fitzpatrick Brown—and reinstated as a tribute to the Gilded Age. The décor here is fittingly lush, i.e. exactly what you’d expect to find in an English country manor. You’re supposed to spend your days relaxing in overstuffed armchairs by the fire, before descending to the dining room for canapés and champagne, and then a long, formal dinner (the dining room calls for jackets for gentlemen, and something a bit dressy for ladies). While high season here is spring-through-fall (in fact, the hotel was only winterized in 2005), if you come during the colder months, you’ll find a quieter stay—plus, they provide equipment for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice-skating. The Edith Wharton House, an estate the writer built, then lived and wrote in for many years, is just a mile away and open daily for visits. If you’re willing to go two miles, you’ll find The Shakespeare & Company playhouse, which hosts evening performances on weekends.

Perched on an olive tree-studded hillside overlooking the Pacific ocean, the Belmond El Encanto is more than deserving of its Forbes five-star accolades. The 90-room hotel (consisting of Craftsman-style suites and freestanding bungalows) re-opened in 2013 after undergoing a comprehensive renovation, which added a pool and tricked-out fitness studio to the grounds. Thankfully, the historic property’s architectural integrity and immaculate gardens were kept intact. Complete relaxation is the name of the game at the full-service spa where guests and day-trippers are pampered by way of water therapies, steam rooms, and local ingredient–inspired facials. When planning his California-coastal menu, Executive chef Alex Bollinger took full advantage of Santa Barbara’s bountiful produce offerings—including herbs from the on-site herb garden.

Staying at Villa Mara feels like staying in a luxurious private home—one that’s beautifully designed, adults-only, and 100 yards from the Pacific Ocean. There’s really no better place to land in Carmel, whether you’re there for a week or for a weekend: The location is notable for its proximity to the beach, yes, but also for being just far enough from the part of town that can feel crowded with tourists. In the mornings, the guests-only hotel bar serves juice shots, pastries, quiches, and excellent coffee. In the evening, it’s a relaxing place to gather for a cocktail or a glass of wine. Secluded firepits and cypress trees give the property magical—and elite—coastal grandmother vibes.

It feels more like Tangier than Palm Springs at this family-run pensione that channels the rustic romance of Morocco and the Mediterranean. Villas are filled with hand-carved wooden furniture, with lemon and olive trees right outside your window. Fountains, fire pits, and colored glass lanterns decorate the outdoor courtyard where group yoga and evening screenings of old movies happen (there are no TVs or phones otherwise). Ask for the Moroccan villa.

Situated just off Palm Springs’ main drag, this Spanish colonial hotel revolves around the main pool (trust us, it’s a good pool). It’s kind of a party hotel, but in a nice way, which means that while there’s generally always a scene, it’s not particularly loud and the hotel itself is really charming. As an adults only hotel, you won’t see any Swimmies in the pool. All of the guest rooms are lovely and done up in eye-pleasing neutrals and pops of print. That said, the freestanding bungalows are a worthy splurge for romantically inclined couples—they're quite a bit more private and some come with an outdoor bathtub sized for two.

Before you set up camp by one of the resort’s retro-glam pools, be sure to explore the winding pathways and sprawling grounds of this desert oasis: You’ll find outdoor fire pits, hammocks, cricket courts, and the Gene Autry Villa (the cowboy crooner’s former residence is always available, for a sizable fee). Much like the rest of the property, each of the 131 guest rooms and 14 suites are decked out in color-happy accessories, geometric throw pillows, and other mid-century elements, courtesy of Jonathan Adler’s interior decor skills. The spa and its Moroccan-themed indoor pool (no kids allowed) are the ideal sanctuary for whiling away a rainy afternoon with the hotel’s signature Pimm’s Cup in hand.

Forty-five pristine, highly manicured acres of gardens, olive groves, and luxury: That’s Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in a nutshell. The forty-nine suites are more like private casitas. And the amenities are plentiful: private gardens and patios, fireplaces, beds with astronomically high thread counts, espresso machines, marble bathrooms, plunge pools, the paper delivered to your door, and gorgeous views of the surrounding canyons (if you can call Mother Nature an amenity). The food is spectacular, the spa is one of the best we’ve ever tried, the private cabanas are dreamy, and everything about the resort—which is the only Relais & Châteaux hotel in Southern California—is truly sublime.

Balanced between the woods and Tomales Bay, Manka Inverness Lodge feels like a tucked-away time capsule—in the best possible way. This is one of those spots where you can pass an entire weekend without running into anyone else: Marin is sleepy, sure, but this place feels even more remote. Manka’s is made up of three separate properties—boat houses on the bay, complete with cathedral doors that open right onto the water; cabins tucked away up high on a ridge; and the main quarters, which revolve around a 1917 hunting and fishing lodge. The accommodations are reminiscent of (luxury) log cabin camping: Pendleton blankets, log post beds, stone slab fronted fireplaces, and taxidermy are all design hallmarks. Breakfast is brought to your room each morning. The proprietors are fanatical about local sourcing, so pretty much everything—from the butter on the toast to the honey—comes from Marin County. Their restaurant down the street, Sir and Star at the Olema, abides by a similar theme. There’s much to explore in West Marin. Check out how we spent 24 hours here.

While Malibu has long had a shortage of places to stay, that’s all changing now and a prime stretch of PCH is getting a modern update with the arrival of the Nobu Ryokan (a new hotel concept for the brand), just a few yards up the street from its namesake restaurant on Carbon Beach. Here, the intimate 16-room hotel is done up in a minimalist Ryokan-style. This translates to wraparound terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows meant to maximize ocean views, and teak, bronze and limestone detailing. The generously-sized rooms are a nod to both California and Japanese design with clean lines, tatami mats, and outdoor teak soaking tub. Guests naturally have priority booking at the restaurant next door, but there’s also a special in-room dining menu for those who don’t want to leave the comfort of their kimono robe, either.

Rosewood Miramar Beach is a bright, airy refresh of a property that dates back to 1876. There’s history here—it was formerly the storied Miramar by the Sea—and so much beauty and comfort you (almost) won’t want to leave the property. Guest rooms are done up in shades of cream and blue, and each has a private terrace with deck chairs made for lounging and ocean-gazing. If you’re coming with kids, go for a bungalow suite.

This 20-room hotel is luxurious, airy, and light-filled. The rooms are thoughtfully laid out and beautifully appointed, each with its own ocean-facing balcony and hammocks, plus Grown Alchemist toiletries in the bathroom and Parachute waffle robes. (For a real treat, book the Surfrider Suite, which at 500 square feet feels like a serious home away from home thanks to a generously sized balcony, separate sitting area, and kitchenette.) There’s a guests-only roof deck bar and restaurant, which has uninterrupted views of Surfrider Beach across the street and a killer fire pit.

Inarguably, this is one of our favorite hotels in the world—we're not alone, either, as John and Jackie spent their honeymoon at SYR, and Sir Laurence Olivier and Vivien Leigh tied the knot in the gardens. Set against the Santa Ynez Mountains, on an olive and lavender tree studded estate that was originally built as a citrus farm in the 19th century, you’ll find 38 secluded bungalows. Each cottage comes equipped with a fireplace, private patio (many have outdoor hot tubs and rain showers), and wonderful extras, like heated bathroom floors. Though it’s big with honeymooners, we never need a big reason to come, as it’s the type of place where the occasion is the stay. Among many other things, the ranch is famous for its impressive collection of rare wine and spirits which can be sipped inside the property's 1920s-inspired speakeasy. Situated in the farm’s former citrus packing house, the stone-walled restaurant offers either creek or ocean views. The menu focuses on fancy comfort food—and revolves around the offerings from the ranch’s gardens. Bonus: The wineries of Santa Ynez and Santa Maria Valleys are less than an hour north, while Santa Barbara is just minutes away.

Having recently undergone extensive renovation, this 1840s neo-Gothic hideaway—just thirty minutes from Shannon airport—sits on 842 acres of manicured gardens, lush rolling fields, and medieval ruins; it's reason alone to travel to Ireland's verdant southwest (although the dozens of nearby historical sites, lively pubs, and quaint villages don't hurt, either). Each individually designed room is palatial in size, decked out with authentic mahogany Georgian-era furniture, sumptuous fabrics, nineteenth-century artwork, and a roaring open fireplace to ward off the inevitable Irish chill. The generously sized marble bathrooms are finished in vintage wallpaper and include deep stand-alone tubs, many of which overlook the grounds. As far as dining goes, there are two solid options on the property, but the Oak Room is hard to beat. The elegantly appointed Drawing Room is the perfect spot for morning coffee or a pre-dinner aperitif by the fire, while the subterranean David Collins–designed, vault-ceilinged Tack Room is the spot for wine and whiskey connoisseurs (Guinness lovers, too) to retreat for a few drinks. Activity-wise, choose from golfing, fishing, archery, and horseback riding, alongside dozens of country hikes and cycle trails. The spa (stocked with 111SKIN) is a tranquil space to indulge and unwind after a long day, accompanied by the comforting scent of autumnal fig that pervades the entire property.

A mere hour from Dublin, this lavish, lovingly-restored, Regency mansion has a pretty insane land-to-guest ratio. While there are only twenty bedrooms (beautifully appointed with four-poster beds, antique furniture, and open fireplaces), they sit on a lush, 600-acre estate replete with rolling fields, lakes, and plenty of Irish wildlife. This will matter to you if you ever opt to leave the house, which is inarguably epic—it boasts an incredible art collection, a well-stocked library, and billiards room, along with one of Ireland’s best organic farm-to-table restaurants with much of the food grown on the estate itself (guests are encouraged to collect their own breakfast eggs). Booze enthusiasts can avail of wine and rare Irish whiskey tastings (also known as “uisce beatha” or the water of life in Gaelic) hosted by the in-house sommelier in the cozy Cellar Bar. Should you want to stretch your legs, there are acres of immaculate gardens, rolling fields, lake fishing, clay pigeon shooting, tennis, archery, falconry, and easy access to golf, not to mention an indoor pool and spa (try the healing Irish seaweed bath, a centuries-old traditional skin remedy). The nearby Slieve Bloom mountains are covered in trails and slopes ideal for hiking, biking, or just soaking up the region's natural beauty.

Spread across 400 bright green, undulating acres of farmland, this country house in rural East Cork looks straight out of central casting. Owned and run by the Allens–the reigning first family of the Irish food scene—Ballymaloe House itself is matriarch Myrtle Allen's former family-residence-turned-hotel. Staying here feels like coming home, the accommodations are supremely comfortable with Irish linen sheets, vintage wallpaper, and fresh vases of wildflowers delivered daily. The on-site restaurant features a menu inspired by the nearby world-renowned Ballymaloe Cookery School, and showcases the best of Irish produce, most of it sourced within a few miles of the house itself. The full Irish breakfast, including warm scones fresh from the oven and traditional delicacies like black pudding and kippers, washed down with several cups of strong tea, is a quintessential Irish experience not to be missed. We recommend booking in during the annual summer Litfest, a week-long food and drinks literary festival with industry speakers that have included Madhur Jaffrey, Alice Waters, and Francis Mallmann among others. Cooking enthusiasts will relish booking into the cookery school for workshops on everything from bread-baking to Asian cuisine, with all the ingredients foraged by the students themselves from the immaculate walled gardens and fields that surround the school and house.

Spread out over 18 acres of lush English countryside, Babington House, the thirty-two room Somerset outpost of London’s Soho House, is a two-hour drive from the city but feels worlds away. The Main House—a sprawling Georgian structure complete with a well-stocked library, cinema, and lounge—is home to 11 guest rooms, each boasting traditional décor, thoughtful modern tweaks, and freestanding claw-foot tubs. The Cowshed Spa offers signature treatments (the all-natural mud-soaks and massages are favorites), waxing services as well as access to both indoor and outdoor pools, tennis courts, and saunas. Though several on-site eateries (The Log Room is ideal for leisurely fireside dinners), a lengthy cocktail menu, and winding gardens have all the makings of a romantic getaway, kids are welcome. Teeny House (catering to the one-and-up crowd) and The Loft (outfitted with books, TVs, and gaming consoles for older kids) keep little ones busy while R&R-starved parents enjoy adults-only amenities stress-free. City-dwellers craving close-to-total seclusion are encouraged to hunker down in one of three split-level Walled Garden Rooms and indulge in a room-service menu that’s a far cry from standard hotel fare (think crispy oysters and buffalo mozzarella salad). For an extended stay, consider The Lodge, a stand-alone cottage with a full kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a living room.

This is one of those hotels that manages to make itself the destination, rather than Florence ( check out our winter guide to the city here)—while the city is within striking distance (15-minutes away by car), you won’t really want to leave the hotel’s gorgeous terraced gardens, stunning city views, and chic suites. The villa—which dates back to the 15th century—used to be a monastery, and it is said that Michelangelo carved its façade. There's also a fantastic cookery school on site where guests can partake in immersive cooking lessons taught by Executive Chef Attilio Di Fabrizio. For littles, the Young Chefs Academy is a fun way to spend an afternoon.

Don’t be fooled by Cowley Manor’s stately stone facade, 55 acres of manicured pastures and its resident swans, the hotel’s interior is as contemporary as it gets. In the Main House you’ll find a leather-walled billiards room, a technicolor sitting room, and The Bar—a modern, wood-paneled venue ideal for working your way through the mile-long cocktail menu. The hotel’s star eatery, The Restaurant at Cowley Manor, is situated in a grand ballroom-like space and in contrast, serves up locally-sourced, modern iterations of British cuisine, plus a separate kid-friendly menu. Split between the Main House and the Stable Block, the airy guest rooms (thirty all together), are labeled Good, Better, Great, Exceptional, and Best; each one staying true to the hotel’s light-hearted vibe with retro furniture and splashy color palettes. The massive C-Side Spa includes two pool areas (one indoor, one outdoor), a gym, sauna, and steam rooms, in addition to a dedicated mani/pedi area. And though children are welcome at both pools and throughout the property, babysitting services are also available.

With roots that date all the way back to the 13th century, this country manor-turned-luxury hotel is a prime candidate for weekends away from London. It's just 20 minutes from the coast and steps from the rural beauty of the New Forest, which, in addition to providing guests with eye candy and roaming space, supplies the hotel’s eateries with freshly foraged fare. With chefs Luke Holder and Angela Hartnett at the helm, Hartnett Holder & Co serves up traditional English dishes letting locally-sourced ingredients shine while the health-focused Raw & Cured—as the name suggests, most of the menu is raw or cured. Spanning three floors and overlooking the ground, the spa, Herb House, is hailed as one of the best in the country. It offers a slew of stress-melting treatmentsa and a caldarium. What’s a caldarium? A piping-hot plunge pool inspired by ancient Roman baths.

This isn’t the fanciest hotel on the list, but we hear that it’s incredibly special and cool: It sits on the stunning Lake Garda, the restaurant focuses on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, and its close to Verona, one of the cultural hearts of Italy.

Tucked in the rolling fields of Oxfordshire, members-only Soho Farmhouse is a compound that includes a, well...farmhouse, several luxury cabins, stables, and a velvet-laden screening room. The décor mirrors the other branches–so members will feel instantly at home–with plenty of country-chic details thrown in (note: green hunter Wellies at guests’ disposal). There’s a ton to do here, from swimming in the heated outdoor pools or lake (the latter is stocked with row-boats for day use), to indulging in the spa. For total privacy, book one of the cottages, equipped with bicycles, rainforest showers, and wood burning stoves, all of which make it pretty hard to leave.

There’s a reason why Stoke Park and its accompanying expanse of rich parkland look familiar: The Harry Colt-designed golf course (lessons are available upon request) had a starring role in two James Bond films, while one of the 14 suites (that’s in addition to 35 antique-clad guest rooms) stole the scene in Bridget Jones’ Diary. Established as the first British country club in 1908 under the watchful eye of King George III’s royal architect, this impressive mansion has been spiffed to boast all the creature comforts posh vacationers come to expect from a weekend in the country, with or without the kids. The world-class Stoke Park Spa is home to an indoor pool, marble steam rooms, and an awe-inducing tropical aquarium. Even if an overnight stay isn’t on the agenda, a celebratory meal at Humphry’s—Chef Chris Wheeler’s modern-British fine dining experience—is well worth the 45-minute drive from London. A three-course dinner may include such local delicacies as quail confit, artichoke tartlets, and English raspberry soufflé.

Lake Como—hugged tight by green mountains and pastel palazzi—is unabashedly old-school glamorous. Despite the hum of homeowners, holidayers, and the odd seaplane, the lake exudes a dolce far niente sundress-and-Aperol-spritz calm. A stay at the intimate Villa Làrio feels like floating around your own exquisitely restored palazzo, replete with lush gardens, contemporary interiors, and a mega view. We loved diving off the private jetty, laps in the pool, morning cooking classes, and finding cozy, manicured corners to enjoy the panoramic lake vistas. Da Luciano across the water for a Negroni, shellfish cavatelli in Cernobbio, daily dips, and Riva boat trips are the way to go. Pro tip: to really explore the little villages nestled around the lake, rent a car.

Thyme—a newish Cotswolds destination in tiny Southrop—wraps everything you could want into one tidy, Georgian bundle. Guest rooms are palatial, some with four-poster beds, others with vintage wallpaper and clawfoot tubs. The entire property is an ode to good, old-fashioned Englishness, where champagne is poured into proper crystal coupes, organic gardens are meticulously landscaped, medieval barns come cloaked in ivy, and afternoon scones are heaped with jam and clotted cream. Eat as many of Ballymaloe alum (and local son) Charlie Hibbert’s meals as possible in the Ox Barn. And book a few master classes at Thyme’s superb cooking school to take a taste of the Gloucestershire countryside home with you. For a change of scenery, a few steps through the gate and across the street is the Swan, Southrop’s charming pub: a roaring fire, a robust wine list, convivial locals, the works.

This stunning ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) in the west of Kyoto is for those looking to unplug and relax. You get to the resort by boat, and the ride over on the river between the mountains is just breathtaking. Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a welcome song of chimes and led to one of the luxury ryokan style rooms overlooking the water. In the morning, have a Japanese breakfast in the room before joining in on breathing exercises. This is a really unique place.

Located in Ise-Shima National Park, just above Ago Bay (home to some of the most unreal pearls in the world), a visit to Amanemu feels a little bit otherworldly. The property, just three hours by train from Kyoto, is dotted with hot springs, and its minimalist rooms are done up in the ryokan-style, include soaking tubs (with separate faucets for cold, hot, or mineral hot springs water). The surroundings are just as tranquil—think, wood, bamboo, and stone structures marked by low-hanging tiled roofs and sliding screens, plus beautiful hand-carved traditional motifs. There's an outdoor infinity pool, which you'll be hard pressed to actually get out of (it's pretty incredible for stargazing), and a 22,000-square foot spa with outdoor onsen baths, a yoga studio, and four treatment rooms tucked into the forest. Meals are taken at at the aptly named Restaurant, where a team of 12 chefs trained by the Masanobu Inaba of Conrad Tokyo spotlight the region's izakaya-style seafood offerings and bento boxes of sashimi and tempura come lunch.

This classic New England hotel is situated on the mouth of Newport’s famous Cliff Walk, a seaside trail dotted with historic mansions, like the Vanderbilt family’s wonderfully, over-the-top summer homes The Breakers and The Marble House. It was the first mansion built along this route for Congressman Chanler and his wife, an Astor heiress, and it has been carefully restored. Each of the 20 rooms and private villas (most with seaside views, many with terraces) are decorated according to a historic period from Colonial to Greek Revival (with plenty of antiques and finds from the current owners’ travels.) Though the result is pretty trad—overstuffed chairs, voluminous drapes, four-poster beds—the hotel still feels remarkably unstuffy, and actually pretty romantic. Take advantage of their transportation service when you’re ready to head into town—they’ll drop you off and pick you up at any point, meaning you can avoid Newport’s notably tricky parking situation. Plus, during the summers the hotel offers a “Beach Butler” who will set you up on the beach of your choice with chairs, towels, an umbrella, a picnic lunch, and a ride to and from.

Occupying a gorgeous shingle-style building right on the water and walking distance from Thames Street and the famous gilded mansions, Forty 1° North has arguably one of the best locations in Newport. The hotel caters specifically to yachters (docking is actually cheaper than the valet parking) and a restaurant that overlooks the marina. In the rooms, you'll find Frette linens, marble bathrooms, and subtly nautical decor, including muted cable-knit throws and vaulted, wood-beam-lined ceilings. Ask for one of the marina-view suites with a balcony that looks out onto the water.

This stately home dates back to the early 1900’s and has been a much-loved B&B since 1995. The Hilltop Inn feels like staying at the cozy, inviting home of an old friend. The five individually designed guestrooms are full of character: think four-poster beds, fireplaces, and rich fabrics. Start each day with Hilltop’s renowned breakfast and come back each evening to freshly baked pies made by Inn Keeper Liz. Definitely a great option for visitors looking for a more homely and intimate hotel atmosphere.

This resort is fresh off an eighteen million dollar renovation. The Goat Island location has been the site of military forts since the Revolutionary War, largely due to its stellar views of Narragansett Bay. Thee resort has taken full advantage of their island site by adding an outdoor saltwater pool, patios and, their own marina which can accommodate boats up to 125 feet. We love the wellness-oriented details like complimentary bikes, weekend yoga, and aromatherapy treatments at the seawater spa. Aside from being well prepped for weddings, the resort is a great getaway option for families with kids: there's arts-and-crafts, sailing lessons, and so much more available. Downtown Newport is just across the bridge, but the views and the restaurants at the resort make it hard to leave.

Built by a member of the Vanderbilt family during the Gilded Age era, this three-story house has been completely restored to its former glory. The Vanderbilt has thirty-three rooms, a spa, multiple swimming pools and a fitness center, and is walking distance to all the downtown attractions. While the building has all the bones of a stately home, the decor is modern and fresh—think pastel colors and natural fabrics. The main draw (and best-kept secret) is the rooftop bar with harbor views.

The Black Pearl is a historic Newport institution with three dining options for every occasion. Eat outside on the waterfront patio, people watch and order the clam chowder, it’s hands-down the best in town. Below deck, the Commodore’s Room is the more classic option with wood-paneled walls and a seafood-centric menu. The Tavern is loud, fun and more of a sport’s bar. Whichever option you choose, both the atmosphere and the food are guaranteed to be good.

This Bannister Wharf eatery is the quintessential Newport dining experience. Frequented by locals and tourists alike, the summer sushi is a must order (even when it's not on the menu). Tom Gidley, fresh off a stint in The French Laundry kitchen, has been the Clarke Cooke House Executive Chef for twenty years and knows what the locals love to eat. After dinner, wander upstairs to the candlelit sky bar, after eleven the tables are pushed to the side and the dancing starts.

A visit to a Rhode Island seaside town would be incomplete without a clam shack stop, and if you’re only making one, go for Flo’s with its picnic tables and fishermen’s tchotchkes hanging from the ceilings. Open since 1936—when it first introduced New England to the fried clam—it’s now a major, two-floor operation overlooking Easton Beach. Besides fried seafood, they’re known for their chowder.

This classic neighborhood diner serves up gargantuan portions and bottomless cups of coffee for breakfast, brunch, and lunch every day starting at 6am. It’s nothing fancy, and the décor is expectedly kitschy with red vinyl booths, stools, and a long formica counter, but it’s worth making a stop for breakfast. You will likely brave a line of tourists and locals waiting for Blueberry stuffed French Toast or Eggs Benedict with lobster.

On any evening of the week, have a drink reclining in an Adirondack chair overlooking the East Bay at Castle Hill Inn’s outdoor restaurant. It opens for the summer each year and along with drinks, serves up delicious New England fare, which is some of the best around.

Grow, harvest, serve is the motto of this seafood restaurant just ten minutes from Newport and owned by actual oysterman Perry Raso. This is the freshest fish that you can eat, all sourced from adjacent Potter Pond with its shellfish beds and accompanying organic farm—so close, you can see it from the restaurant. Owner Perry is at the forefront of sustainable aquaculture (he has his own Ted Talk on the subject) with a menu that features a combination of wild-caught and farm-raised to reflect it. Start with a sampling of oysters from the raw bar, dive into tuna tartar tacos and scallop ceviche, and finish with the lobster and Alaskan king crab. Aim to be seated just before sunset and enjoy the view.

We’ve been told multiple times that this is hands-down the best burger to be had in Rhode Island. Mission is a low-key, family friendly burger and falafel spot that’s always full. The food sounds simple but the flavors are loud in the best way-be sure to get their signature "mission" sauce and homemade pickles with your burger. Meat options aside, Mission makes excellent falafel served in a warm pita with preserved lemon and all the traditional sides. In the summer try their popsicles, made in-house with locally grown fruit. Arrive early, seats are limited but the line moves quickly.

Head to this big, bustling Newport Wharf restaurant for lunch before visiting the museum and library just a few blocks away. It’s a no-frills and family-friendly affair during the day (lots of kids coloring on placemats), but the casual food is super tasty. In fact, it’s perfect waterside lunch fare, from the fresh and meaty Mexican white shrimp to the delicious Cajun Redfish Wrap. The real standout, though, is their Native Scallop Chowder, brightened up with bits of dill. Be sure to snag a table out on the patio overlooking Narragansett Bay.

Belly up to the circular bar at this soda fountain for classic shakes (specifically, the “Awful Awful”), sundaes, and cones, all with flavors ranging from black raspberry to maple walnut and crazy vanilla (vanilla flavor, crazy colors). Newport Creamery began by delivering local milk to residents in the ’30s. They then opened a “milk bar” on Main Road, a little north, but we head to this location for a quick, sweet, pit stop in town.

If you’re driving in on a Friday night, make this husband-and-wife helmed restaurant your first stop. Located in the northern part of town, where most restaurants are pretty tired/run-of-the-mill, this casual Mexican restaurant is the exception. Andi makes the cocktails (her cilantro-jalapeno martini is insane) while Dan heads up the kitchen, bringing his own brand of upscale Mexican to Newport. Expect perfectly battered fish tacos, a Mexican-infused kale salad, and avocado fries, which probably shouldn’t be missed.

The tavern dates back to 1673, when it was a colonial watering hole, and it looks it with patriotic flag curtains, deep fireplaces, and woodsy interiors. The food is of the delicious New England variety: Chef Rich Silvia sources local Rhode Island fish, meat, and vegetables to make traditional dishes like clam chowder, fish cakes, lobster macaroni & cheese, and clam boils. There’s a formal dining room upstairs, or stay downstairs and grab a snack and drink at the bar. There’s also a brunch menu on Sundays with local specialties like lobster stuffed omelettes and eggs benedict.

Described by locals as the best ice-cream in New England, Brickley’s has been a Rhode Island institution since the '90s when it was first opened by husband-and-wife duo, Steve and Chris Brophy. Lines are long, but the creamy homemade scoops of everything from traditional chocolate and summer fruit flavors to decadent coffee oreo are worth the wait. We recommend getting yours in one of Brickley’s signature, crunchy, homemade waffle cones. For those with a more moderate sweet tooth, try one of the equally delicious, no-added-sugar flavors like pistachio and vanilla.

Lobster is a big deal in Newport. A group of life-long local fisherman built this shack as a type of co-op to sell their fresh catch directly to the public. The Lobster Shack is fully stocked with wild-caught crab, conch, and lobster, obviously. Feast on fresh catch cooked every way imaginable: lobster bites, bisque, cakes, and finally the best lobster roll to be found in Newport. If you’re craving a taste of Rhode Island from afar, you can have catch live shipped overnight to anywhere in the US, or why not try to recreate the Newport Lobster Shack experience at home and cook from their aptly named cookbook The Fisherman’s Table.

This achingly cute farmstand actually started as a hobby project by farmers Jan Paul and Michelle Eckhart, who finally made it into a full-time operation in the '90s. The farm specializes in the kinds of things that make incredible housewarming gifts, like fresh-cut flowers and jams. You can also come to the stand for breakfast, lunch, and take-home platters for dinner. A major win for the littles: year-round, pick-your-own produce, offering berries and peaches in the summer, apples and pumpkins in the fall, and Christmas trees in the winter.

This Newport spa is like a modern-day version of an ancient Roman bath house. The founders took the ocean as their inspiration for the treatment menu and the decor (lots of turquoise), offering hydrotherapy treatments alongside facials and massages. Wellness enthusiasts should try their six-step, circulation-boosting water journey treatment where you experience water in every form: salt-filled, hot, cold, and steamy.

Regardless of whether you actually possess a cottage or garden, you’ll most likely walk away with a little (or big) something from this inspiring indoor and outdoor decor store—or, at the very least, a few ideas for decorating your own place. The selection of bric-a-brac, new and vintage furniture, and garden decor is constantly replenished, all reflected in their great displays.

This pretty white-and-gold salon offers hairstyling, makeup application, and the full bridal-beauty service suite. The owner has years of experience, having worked on movie sets and photoshoots since the beginning of her career. Now settled in Newport with her family, visitors and locals can sit in Jennie’s chair for cuts, blowdries, and up-do’s. If you're stuck for inspiration, take a look at the Jennie Kay insta (she also has her own youtube tutorial channel) or drop in for a consultation. Brides, be sure to book in early as this salon is especially high in demand throughout the summer season.

Husband and wife team Jake and Steph Kopper started experimenting with making natural soaps in their home kitchen, got hooked, and The Shore Soap Company was born. Inspired by the simplicity of their surroundings and lifestyle, the couple wanted to create natural, high-end products that were affordable and sustainable. The soaps became so popular that the line has expanded to include candles, moisturizers, scrubs, and more. The Kopper’s are passionate about the environment and avoid harmful chemicals when crafting their products.

The Cliff Walk lives up to its name and is Newport's signature hike. On one side take in the stunning coastline and on the other you'll get a stellar view of many of Newport’s gilded age era mansions. Hike the full three-and-a-half mile trail and you’ll see original Vanderbilt family mansions: Marble House, Rough Point, and Renaissance-style The Breakers among others. There are plenty of different entry and exit points for those not wanting to do the full trail. Avoid hiking on a windy day as the terrain can get rough in patches and there are cliff drops not suitable for small kids or those prone to vertigo.

This is one of Newport’s most popular beaches (which means you’ll be braving the crowds) but it’s a worthwhile stop if you’re traveling with kids for its playground, old-school merry-go-round, dime-size aquarium, Del’s Lemonade (an RI classic), and lobster rolls at the snack bar. There are better swimming holes, but Newport’s only ocean beach boasts the most attractions.

The name pretty much explains why this is an ideal daytrip for kids. Take a picnic (stop by Le Petit Gourmet enroute) and head 20 minutes out of town to Portsmouth. There’s a mansion on the property with an antique toy collection, but the real attraction is the multitude of topiary animals, geometric shapes, and manicured flower gardens outdoors.

Newport's preppy reputation precedes it, so it's fitting that the town is home to the International Tennis Hall of Fame. Housed in the former Newport Casino (a grand, old shingle-style building that's officially a National Historic Landmark), it's home to exhibitions of historic memorabilia–including some incredible old-school tennis whites–as well as several beautifully maintained tennis courts. Book a time slot in advance, and you can play a few games on the immaculate historic grass courts.

Water lover Ed Sanchas was frustrated by how difficult it was to rent kayaks while traveling and founded Newport's first kayak delivery business to remedy the situation. Mobile Kayaks takes all the hassle out of renting water-sports equipment and brings the kayaks and paddle boards right to you: Ed and his team will meet you at the water’s edge in Newport, Middletown, and Portsmouth (they also have plenty of insider hints on the best spots). Once you're done, they’ll come back and pick up all the equipment. Operating throughout the summer season only, be sure to reserve your kayaks in advance.

This farmer’s market has been providing Newport with fresh, seasonal, local produce for over twenty-two years. Each week dozens of vendors gather to sell everything from vegetables, fresh seafood, and homemade condiments to herbal skin care. All the food sold has been grown or made within a fifty-mile radius, making this market a truly sustainable farm-to-table shopping experience. Spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy your haul to a soundtrack of live music in the shade along Memorial Boulevard.

The permanent collection here focuses on American art from the 19th century to the present day, and, like the more contemporary exhibition, pays particular attention to art from Rhode Island and New England. In addition to the charm of perusing local art through the old creaky building, the museum holds great lectures.

Classic Cruises and their custom tours take full advantage of the amazing vantage point that is the water in Newport. Thrill seekers can relive the sea chases of the prohibition era on high-speed motorboat Rum Runner II, built in 1929. Meanwhile, the romantics can glide through Newport Harbor and Narragansett Bay on the seventy-two-foot schooner, The Madeleine. The incredibly knowledgeable crew will give you the insider scoop on every cove, lighthouse, and seaside home on the coastline. Aim for a sunset cruise to take in the scenery with a glass of wine‚ and for those looking for an even more special experience, the boats are available for small groups and private charter.

This great, year-round, roving film festival takes up digs in the town’s most historic spots, whether it’s outdoors at the Bird Sanctuary, on the lawn at Rosecliff Mansion, or inside the classic Jane Pickens art-house theater. The website updates often for the latest films and locations.

Each year, Fort Adams State Park, with its 360° views of the harbor and Naragansett Bay, hosts two long-standing music festivals (among the first of their kind): The Newport Folk Festival from July 25th to 27th, and The Newport Jazz Festival, August 1st through 3rd. While the folk festival veers toward indie musicians like Jenny Lewis, Conor Oberst and Band of Horses, the jazz festival, has stuck with traditional big-name headliners like Wynton Marsalis, Lee Konitz, and Ravi Coltrane.

The turn of the century brought millionaires and their heirs and heiresses to the Newport shoreline and along with them, some big houses. Taking their inspiration from Versailles and Italy’s Renaissance palazzos, The Vanderbilt’s built The Breakers and Marble House, Doris Duke commissioned Rough Point, and heiress Theresa Oelrichs built Rosecliff. Tours are a summertime highlight as many close during the rest of the year.

Newport's polo club is the oldest in the country (founded in 1876), so it's no surprise that the grounds are a huge part of the appeal here; the original property was called Glen Farm, and was complete with an incredible stone barn and stable. There are matches every Saturday in the summer, and the tailgate is an important part of the scene–regulars will have huge spreads and tents, but all you need is a bottle of champagne, cheese, and a picnic blanket to take part. Elaborate Kentucky-Derby-style hats are highly encouraged.

Newport is basically mecca in the sailing community. It hosts several big-name regattas, including the Americas Cup (The Newport Regatta was June 9th-12th). If you’re new to the sport, there are plenty of spots offering lessons, though this family-run business on Goat Island—in operation since the ‘60s—is one of the classics. They offer courses for beginner, intermediate, and advanced sailors in two to four class packages, ideal if you’re staying in Newport for a short stint. If you’re only in town for the weekend and looking to get out on the water, you can also book an hour’s tour of the harbor and Naragansett Bay.

There are no kites, joggers, or bike riders allowed in this 375-acre nature reserve on Aquidneck island—it’s for serious birders only. The number of species you’ll run across on any day is pretty impressive, and so are the seven, well-maintained miles of trails. They hold free guided bird walks every other Sunday.

Founded in 1747, this is the oldest lending library in America. Its history is pronounced: There’s a wide selection of rare and first-edition hardcover books on the shelves, while portraits of prominent leaders hang above. It’s a great place to think and read, especially in the large Terry Reading Room. There’s also their version of a bookstore in the back: At the 1747 Store, anything from an old design hardcover to an esoteric history book can be bought for as little as 50 cents.

While pro surfers head to Newport to catch ten and 15 foot swells at Ruggles break point, there are gentler beaches like Second where the waves are more appropriate for beginners. It’s here that Rhody’s instructors teach one hour private and group lessons (they also provide all the necessary equipment). Kids can also join their week-long morning surf camps—sign up online, as they fill up quickly.

Despite Newport's serious yacht culture, the gorgeous scenery can still be enjoyed with both feet on solid ground. Case in point: Sachuest Point is a close to three-mile oceanside hike through a wildlife sanctuary. This trail is home to birds, ducks, cottontail rabbits, and dozens of other species. Open all year long, Sachuest is a great option through the winter months when it’s less crowded and cooler. Take your time, watch the waves and hopefully spot a deer or two.