The St. Regis Deer Valley

Situated on the banks of the Kamogawa river and overlooking a cluster of mountains, the Ritz-Carlton in Kyoto provides all the swanky amenities (spa, fine dining, impeccable service) one might expect, plus a slew of unexpected extras. While it’s the perfect home base from which to venture out into downtown Kyoto and surrounding districts, the hotel’s roster of activities offers plenty of reasons to hang around the property. Here, you can try your hand at Japanese floral design, soap making, traditional origami, and more. Sake tastings, matcha tea ceremonies, and master sushi classes can also be arranged for anyone who’s interested.

The Soneva family of resorts may be situated on some of the most gorgeous land in the world, sure, but what really gets our hearts beating faster is their dedication to a form of tourism that goes even beyond sustainable. It’s called Slow Life, which breaks down to: Sustainable-Local-Organic-Wellness Learning-Inspiring-Fun-Experiences. Here, you truly disconnect from all the business at home, and connect instead with a stunningly, pristine landscape (including a UNESCO protected coral reef). There are 55 villas here, which have anything from three to nine bedrooms (making this epic for a big group of friends or family reunion), and the focus is equally on ensuring that kids have a great time, whether it’s in the open-air cinema, at the observatory, or riding bikes around the island. (It doesn’t hurt that they offer 60 kinds of ice cream.)

At Soneva Jani, zipping across the island on bikes, barefoot, is the norm. The spa occupies two complexes, one perched over the jungle and the other over the sea. (You can do a full-on panchakarma program with the resort’s resident Ayurveda experts, or follow up your massage with an hour in the hyperbaric oxygen chamber.) Every accommodation is a one-to four-bedroom house on the beach or over the water, with private pools and full kitchens. In the master bedrooms, retractable roofs allow for stargazing from bed. Restaurant options abound.

GP took a family trip here a few years ago that she still talks about today. It was incredible. First, Soneva is a wonderful company (see Soneva Fushi). Second, you can pick from 24 villas or 11 private residences, which all boast infinity pools and access to both beach and rainforest. But for kids, it’s a real freak out. There was a water slide in GP's villa, there’s an open-air cinema, and you can eat in the trees. (There’s also an ice cream parlor.)

This might just be the most stunning stretch of sand—coupled with a warm, cerulean sea—in the world. The fact that it's an Aman just makes it even better. Like all its counterparts around the world, the resort essentially disappears into the surroundings, but in the most luxurious way. For one, it's set far away from the (very busy) Eastern part of the island. And for two, the rooms are simple and pristine. Besides a great spa and excellent food, there's tennis, reef diving, and plenty of other thrills to fill the days.

On Costa Rica’s Pacific side—the drier side, FYI—the Andaz is a great landing spot for those seeking a chill pace and family-friendly amenities. Rooms have pebbled rainfall showers, floor-to-ceiling windows, and, depending on the floor, plunge pools or balconies overlooking the forest or bay. There are four restaurants; the highlight is Ostra, which features spins on traditional Costa Rican dishes like casado croquettes.

Even if you’re not in Cusco preparing for the journey up to Machu Picchu, this beautiful, cobbled city is well worth the visit. The Belmond Hotel Monasterio, a former monastery and now national monument—built in 1592 on the site of an Inca palace—turned luxury hotel brimming with character is, without question the most atmospherically beautiful spot to room in Cusco. The candlelit, cloistered courtyard is perfect for a pre-dinner pisco sour or morning coffee surrounded by trees. Be sure to wander into the restored Baroque chapel as you make your way to one of the hotel's two excellent restaurants nestled in the cloisters (Illariy is the Peruvian fine-dining option, while the more laid-back El Tupay hosts live opera a few nights a week). Besides visiting Machu Picchu, the hotel can arrange any number of activities, from white water rafting to cooking classes (Peru is a hotbed of culinary activity, after all). An additional draw is the live oxygen pumped into each room, a godsend for those adjusting to the altitude.

This brand-spanking new, Belmond-owned hotel in Cusco can proudly say it has the only outdoor swimming pool in all the land (heated, of course) and, with the building having been so beautifully restored from the Colonial palace and convent it once was, you can relax in luxury. Private butlers are available at the touch of a button through each room's souped-up iPad. Those suffering from altitude sickness (Cusco soars a head-spinning 11,152 feet above sea level) can request their rooms be pumped with extra oxygen or gently scented with Andean flowers and herbs which are believed to wield healing powers. The property is walking distance to the main square of the city, which is rife with up-and-coming restaurants, museums, and inviting little shops.

If you're looking for a serene spot to gather your thoughts before climbing Machu Picchu, hiking Sacred Valley, or from which to explore historic Cusco, look no further than Inkaterra La Casona (it's built on ancient Inca training grounds, after all). It's a Relais & Châteaux hotel (the first in Peru), so even though it’s housed in a 16th century mansion, the five-star amenities—heated floors, an eco-conscious Yaku spa—are plentiful. The 11 guest rooms are strategically placed overlooking a private courtyard and done up in traditional Peruvian style (Colonial furnishings, handwoven tapestries). The house restaurant serves up traditional Peruvian delicacies and delicious breads. For breakfast, the eggs Benedict are made to order and the staff will gladly pack a to-go picnic if a day of sightseeing is on the agenda.

The main building could use a bit of sprucing up, but the resort is one of the largest, most-inclusive on the island and a reliable full-service option for families. (It's also just two hours from New York.) There’s a big focus here on kids activities and golf, and the course is pretty immaculate, with views of the water and towering coconut palms overhead. The rooms are standard and comfortable with balconies overlooking the beach and mellow, tropical patterns throughout.

Situated along Mexico's stunning Riviera Nayarit, this big-ish resort offers multiple pools, multiple private beaches, one of the Four Season's fabled clubs for kids, and access to some of Mexico's best snorkeling, scuba diving, and surfing. There's also whale watching in Banderas Bay and a great spa, as well as plenty of locally-sourced seafood and Mexican fare on the menu.

If the words “Cabo San Lucas” conjure visions of college kids doing tequila shots, let the words “One&Only Palmilla” replace those visions with palm trees, hummingbirds, and flowers the size of dinner plates. The property’s history goes back to 1956, when it served as a 15-room luxury escape for the president of Mexico. Since then, it’s been transformed into a 174-room resort with lush gardens, a pristine waterfront, top-notch service, and amenities that have their own amenities (everything from a welcome drink to turn-down service menus and personal butlers). And if you rent out one of the two private villas on the grounds, you get a whole team of personal butlers. And if that isn’t quite enough to send you running to the airport: The One&Only has one of the only swimmable beaches in Los Cabos, a spa featuring a shaman-led sweat lodge called a temazcal, and—if you’re planning a special occasion of the very special type—a historic chapel with panoramic views of the Sea of Cortez.

In general, if you want to visit the Galapagos Islands, you have to be prepared to live on a boat while you sail around to see the region's incredible treasures—either a giant cruise ship, or a smaller yacht. Understandably, there's minimal infrastructure in this ecologically-imperiled region, which makes this environmentally-conscious arrival on Santa Cruz Island particularly special. Every day, you'll set out for naturalist-led excursions, either on Pikaia's yacht, or by land, and then return to the resort at night, where you'll find a pool, a spa, and a handful of restaurants to choose from. While the lodge invites kids ages 12-and-up, they'll likely make exceptions if you have a curious young one on your hands, as long as they're aware that the days are long (and start early). It's essentially akin to being on safari.

Rosewood Mayakoba is a huge resort that’s very well run and well-manicured. You’re surrounded by water, with the Caribbean on one side and freshwater lagoons on the other, which you traverse by boat. (You can always get around by bike or hitch a ride on a golf cart.) The suites have private plunge pools, sun decks, and outdoor showers; they’re spacious and great for friends traveling together. By day, Zapote Bar is a chill spot for a drink; it really turns up at night. Be sure to book a spot at La Ceiba—a dining experience under a large Ceiba tree on the property’s 20,000-square foot garden, where hotel guests and staff dine together on a menu crafted from locally-sourced produce and regional wines and tequilas. But if you want to hole up at the spa every day of your visit, you wouldn’t be blamed—it’s a totally special space, housed on a private island overlooking limestone lagoons and offering up an extensive menu of Mayan-influenced spa treatments and rituals.

Round Hill has long been a landing spot for starlets and artists: Grace Kelly, Alfred Hitchcock, Ian Fleming, Oscar Hammerstein, the list goes on. The Kennedys took their honeymoon here. But it’s Ralph Lauren (he bought a home here in the ‘80s, and describes the property as Eden) who’s left an indelible mark on the place: He designed the rooms.

Right in the middle of the breathtaking Sacred Valley of the Incas lies the Sol y Luna lodge, a collection of color-happy luxury casitas spread out over beautiful gardens peppered with exquisite flowerbeds. We’re told this is the ideal base from which to go riding (on Peruvian Paso horses from the hotel's own stables), river rafting, trekking, or just simply wandering around the endless Inca ruins and villages dotted about. The Killa Wasi restaurant specializes in authentic Peruvian cuisine reimagined by Executive Chef Pedro Miguel Schiaffin using only the freshest, tastiest locally sourced ingredients.

Despite the name, the tropical rainforest this resort is set inside is the bigger draw. This is a place to come if you’re into guided tours through the forest led by local marine biologists, a bird sanctuary, bike paths, etc. Kids can hang out in the Iguana Club if they don't want to trek. It has all the upscale amenities you’d expect from a St. Regis property, including their signature butler service (they unpack your bags), a Remède Spa, an oceanfront golf course, and good food.

One you arrive to Sugar Beach, you won't really want to leave—and that's kind of the point. Flanked by St. Lucia's twin volcanic Pitons, the property, tucked away on the island's west coast, is set amongst 100 acres of rainforest (meaning hummingbirds and butterflies are par for the course). Admittedly, it's a bit of a journey to get here, whether you fly in from the north or the south of the island, the road is steep and windy, but it's well worth the hour-long-drive. The recently renovated colonial-style cottages are the move—they're perched on the hillside and have their own claw-foot tubs, terraces as big as New York apartments, and are swathed in entirely in white from the slipcovered furniture to the four-poster beds. Each room has a private plunge pool,if you’re feel too lazy to wander down to the Caribbean, but should you make the effort, it’s one of those resorts where the main activity is ordering piña coladas to your beach chair while taking in the epic view. The spa is a necessary indulgence here, as the seven treatment rooms are tucked into private thatched-roof tree houses, and are the perfect spot for a bamboo massage or hot rock therapy.

With unobstructed views of Umbria’s rolling hillside and access to chefs, drivers, stables, and tennis courts, Castello di Reschio is the epitome of secluded luxury. Count Antonio Bolza and his architecturally inclined family spent decades restoring this 2,700 acre estate to its former glory (the main castle and about 50 farmhouses date all the way back to 1202). The rentable cottages, palazzos, and for-sale villas are meticulously furnished with modern pieces and artful details designed by Italy’s top artisans. The infinity pool overlooks ancient mulberry tree groves and fragrant lavender fields. The Reschio vineyard is famous for producing rosés which, along with expertly-prepared, locally sourced meals, you can sample at the property’s private restaurant.

At barely a year old, this five-star Swiss chalet has already gained a pretty impressive reputation as one of the best new hotels in Europe. It takes no more than two hours to get here from Zurich or Milan, but the picturesque ski-town locale is just remote enough to feel worlds away. The “Asian-Alpine” vibe (wood-paneled walls, dim lighting, soaring ceilings) is the doing of architect Jean-Michel Gathy and feels refreshingly cool rather than overdone. Each of the 105 iPad-controlled rooms has its very own fireplace, cashmere throws, and a sprawling bath stocked with Aqua di Parma products. While it's obviously the ideal spot for skiing (and après-ski), snow-boarding, and other snow-centric activities, summertime in Andermatt has its own charms (hiking, golfing, fishing, cycling...) The spa—it’s more of a separate wellness compound, really—is home to Finnish saunas, a gorgeous swimming pool, steam baths, and a lengthy treatment menu. Stop by the massive humidor cheese room or wander the spectacular wine library before hitting up the larger of the two on-site eateries for a stellar assortment of traditional Asian, European, and Swiss fare (we hear the daily breakfast spread is no joke). The 40-seat sushi restaurant offers a deep Japanese beer menu to round out a meal of super fresh sushi, sashimi, and tempura.

The Four Seasons Megève offers all the trappings you'd expect from a Four Season's property (heated indoor/outdoor pool, an 18-hole golf course and, obviously, a ski concierge and valet) with the French Alps as its background. (Blessedly, it's also a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of nearby Courchevel). Each of the 55 rooms is thoughtfully considered, done up in dark wood, crisp linens, and heated floors in the bathroom, each one with its own stunning mountain views as well as ski-in/ski-out access to Mont d’Arbois. The concierge can set you up with a wide range of year-round activities, from golf and hiking in the spring, to skiing and dogsledding in the winter. Should you wish to venture outside of the hotel, Megève is a great place to explore and get your picturesque French village fix. Note the hotel is open from the beginning of December to April, and again from June to September.

Built in 1920, Gleneagles feels like the world's most sprawling manor house. The surrounding countryside, meanwhile, is 850 acres of pure rural bliss. There are pristine rivers teeming with trout, bridle paths, and long, meandering trails through untouched meadows for walking and biking (plus four golf courses that regularly host championship tournaments). But maybe the best thing to do (indoors or out) is to claim a cozy corner of the hotel’s Century Bar, a grand dining room with velvet banquettes and club chairs. It’s here you’ll find guests leafing through newspapers with a Scotch whisky in hand. Have at least one meal at Andrew Fairlie—the only restaurant in Scotland with two Michelin stars—known for its smoked lobster, an aromatic dish that incorporates a five-hour infusion over whisky barrel chips. Your other option is the Strathearn, a cavernous, chandelier-studded venue for old-school dinners (beef Wellington sliced tableside, flambéed crepes). Grab a nightcap afterward (or a predinner cocktail) at the elegant, David Collins–designed American Bar. It has glamour in spades: Walls are clad in lavender cashmere, and the menu is given mostly to champagne and caviar. Need we say more.

Originally built in 1891 in a beautiful, remote region of Norway, Hotel Union Øye is stunning in its own right: The historic inn has 30 guestrooms outfitted with antique tapestries and clawfoot tubs, a verdant conservatory restaurant, and lushly appointed common rooms, including a working library dedicated to mountaineering and exploration. But it’s the surrounding landscape—dramatic alpine peaks and a vast fjord—that makes this property breathtaking.

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.

Sister property to South Africa’s Babylonstoren, the Newt in Somerset is a country hotel on an 800-acre cider-making estate. The gorgeous limestone main house—the Hadspen—was originally built in the seventeenth century and remodeled for Georgian sensibilities in the next. Half a mile away in the Farmyard house, accommodations are a little more rustic, but still luxurious and considered. There’s a private cabin, too, built into the stone wall that surrounds the property. The restaurant menu features Babylonstoren wine and whatever is fresh picked from the garden, and the spa offers yoga, sound baths, a hammam, and a very cool indoor-outdoor pool.

When Ritz Paris opened in 2016 after four years of renovations—the first closure in the hotel’s storied history—loyalists appreciated that the designers kept the hotel’s charming, traditional style firmly intact (if a bit spruced up), down to the grand window treatments, gilded frames, and copious chandeliers. As ever, the rooms are exceptionally luxurious: Each is outfitted with a marble bathroom, generous windows, and famously soft sheets, with many boasting antique furnishings. The hotel is also home to three restaurants, two of which now have retractable glass ceilings on their patios: L’Espadon, for a traditional, white-tablecloth French dining experience, including breakfast and lunch; Bar Vendôme, a moody brasserie with red velvet booths; and the Ritz Bar, a more casual spot with shared plates and an Art Deco design palette. The hotel is home to a stunning fitness center—also available to private club members—where guests can swim laps in a gorgeous tiled pool or sign up for a day of pampering in the Chanel spa. But we’re probably most excited about the reopening of Bar Hemingway, the old author’s historic haunt that’s now famous for some of the world’s best cocktails.

Four Seasons Lanai is even more breathtaking in person: The championship golf course bumps up against steep ocean cliffs. There’s an observatory for guided stargazing and a lesson in traditional wayfinding—delightful for little ones. The Nobu and Malibu Farm on site are particularly thrilling if you’re a fan of outposts elsewhere. But perhaps what’s most notable is the sense of seclusion; the extra effort it takes to get here (by seaplane or ferry) pays off. The island’s second Four Seasons property, which lies inland, is recently reimagined as part of Oracle founder Larry Ellison’s wellness hospitality venture, Sensei.

One excellent hotel option—particularly for families, or anyone traveling with other couples—is the Lodge at Kukui'ula, a private club in Poʻipū that stretches across 1,010 acres, and was included in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards Best Hawaiian Resorts. Comprised of multi-bedroom homes—most with adjacent guest houses—it has plenty of high-end touches and amenities. While all the homes are equipped with lavish kitchens, the club restaurant, ʻUmeke Kitchen + Bar is excellent, and serviced by an on-site garden. There's a multi-level pool complete with hot tubs, a water slide, and a beach (the real beach is just across the road), a keiki play room, and the on-site Huakaʻi Outfitters staffed by locals who know all the island's secrets—what's better is that they'll take you there, or pack you a cooler and bag of equipment and send you on your way. For those otherwise inclined, there is a Tom-Weiskopf-designed golf course, tennis courts, and the award-winning Hiʻilani Spa and Fitness Center, home to a gym, yoga studio, and more.

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.

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.

Those in the know agree that a trip to Utah isn’t complete without a stay at Sorrel River Ranch. Located right in the middle of dramatic cliff tops, this resort has farm-to-food plates, a great spa as well as national park walking, river rafting, off road touring, and family friendly activities. Check into one of the 55 wood-beamed suites and feast your eyes on dramatic views of the Colorado River. Or better yet, come with family and friends and stay at the 2,000-square-foot Ranch House.

We have it on good authority that Zion Mountain Ranch is a total gem. Go here for canyoneering, night campfires, and horse back riding, as well as the incredible, life-changing landscapes and scenery. In fact, this National Register of Historic Places member is the only place to stay within the confines of Zion National Park. Top-notch restaurants and modern amenities are above and beyond what one might expect from such a remote location.

Since 1927, adventurous types who like to kick off their boots at the end of a long excursion have used this hotel (formerly known as the Majestic) as their base camp in Yosemite. Watch out for bears as you make your way to the park's main attractions like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, or Glacier Point. When you've had your fill of the great outdoors, head indoors to a room in the lodge, many of which can be combined to accommodate big groups; they also have rustic cabins in the pines.

Aman resorts are known for impeccable service and some of the most stunning (and remote) locations in the world—no big surprise, but this one fits the mold perfectly. Set into a butte overlooking Jackson Hole and the Grand Tetons, it’s a pretty ideal venue for skiing, though during warmer months, it offers great hiking, rafting, and horseback riding, where you might happen upon deer, bald eagles, and even black bears. It also has an excellent spa. If you come in the summer, pack jeans, a cowboy hat, and boots for horseback riding, along with hiking boots and river gear. Because the views of the Rocky mountains and the plains below are the focal point, all 40 suites are decorated in neutral tones that won’t distract you from the outdoors. Along with decks and outdoor seating, each suite features a daybed in the bedroom, and a soaking tub that’s positioned next to floor-to-ceiling windows. Don’t skip out on the heated outdoor infinity pool overlooking the surrounding plains. Keep in mind that Amangani is also within striking distance of Yellowstone National Park.

Kids will go nuts for this hip, affordable, inn-like spot in South Lake Tahoe, and for good reason: You’ll find forest wallpaper, fake campfires, tented beds, Coleman-style lanterns, steel bunk beds and... Xboxes. Each of the 50 rooms has a different look, but they all revolve around a cabin-like theme—with plenty of modern (and eco) flourishes. The emphasis is on shared experiences here, as many of the rooms come with bunks, and you’re encouraged to mingle with the other guests at communal dinners, the fire pits, and in the rooftop hot tub. Rooms start at $89 a night, which tends to attract a younger crowd. Definitely pack ski gear, as it’s a few short paces to the Heavenly Gondola; and a Swiss army knife, for hikes, adventures, and getting lost (a “Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook” comes with every room).

With a coveted location right by Jackson’s tram, Caldera House has just eight suites, each with two or four bedrooms. It’s worth noting that nothing comes cheap here—during peak season, four-bedroom suites go for upwards of $20,000 per night. But if you’re traveling with a couple of families and would have rented a house in the area, the location alone makes it a compelling option. Coveted amenities don’t hurt, either: namely valet parking, which is otherwise nonexistent here. The team here keeps a low profile, and you won’t see much of them if you’re not seeking out their (excellent) services; they can set up a day of heli-skiing, a sleigh ride through the National Elk Refuge, or naturalist-guided snowshoeing through the Tetons.

Beyond the high-tech camping fabrics and unglamorous tents, this is our pick for the most design-worthy camping site out there. Located about an hour west of the park’s boundaries, beneath Lone Peak, this collective of beautifully built canvas tents is roughing it at its best (and to say roughing it is a stretch). Each teepee-like tent is outfitted with chic, rustic furniture, a plush king-sized bed, and tribal decor. To make the entire camping experience pretty much labor-free, the full-service company schedules farm-to-table breakfasts and dinners cooked on site by a nearby chef.

Occupying a long-abandoned ghost town in the Colorado Rockies, this luxe spin on a dude ranch offers everything you'd expect from a trip to the mountains. You can go on long trail rides, fly fish in the Dolores, or hike, mountain bike, or mountain climb (for those truly vertically inclined). They also offer white water rafting and archeological day trips to the desert. All the activity is met with welcoming luxury back home in camp, whether you're staying in a log cabin, a perma-tent, or a tipi. You'll find cozy beds outfitted with high-thread count sheets and Pendleton blankets, fireplaces, and a well-appointed spa. Obviously, there's a saloon, and plenty of barbecue, too.

Sprawled out over 20 acres of woods on the outskirts of the park (not nearly as touristy as the center), Evergreen isn’t so much a hotel as it is a cluster of adorably rustic cabins surrounding a communal main plaza...kind of like summer camp. You can easily daytrip down to Yosemite Valley, but with a pool, pop-up BBQs, two restaurants, an old-timey general store, and a slew of throwback activities (outdoor film screening, s’mores, bingo) offered right on property, you might not want to ever leave. There’s even a youth program to keep little ones occupied.

Located on the other end of the Going to the Sun Road on the eastern edge of the park, this is inarguably one of our favorite hotels in the world. There are few amenities—the towels are more like washcloths and you won’t find fancy shampoo in the shower—but the Alpen-themed lodge, which dates back to 1915, sits on the edge of the surreally beautiful, glacial Swiftcurrent Lake. While rooms here tend to book up far in advance, it’s a sprawling place, and if you’re persistent, something usually opens up. The food is not going to blow your socks off, but it’s pretty much the only option, and after a long day of hiking, it’s totally sufficient. You can leave from here, on foot, for a handful of the park’s best hikes, including Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake, though the lodge lobby, complete with a gigantic fireplace, is a nice place to read away the better part of an afternoon, too. Like with all the Glacier lodges, there are no TVs in the rooms, and there’s no cell service throughout the park, making this one of the few places where you can truly check out.

Just 40-minutes east of Missoula, we came to affectionately call this 37,000-acre spread Montanaland: Paws Up is a bit like a theme park set against some truly majestic country. There's ATV-ing, go-carts, a gun range, archery, paintball, a kids camp (where they took the kiddos on a legitimate hike), horses galore, plus ample opportunity to river raft, fly fish, and work a cattle drive. The on-site spa is excellent, the food is good, and the accommodations—which range from log cabin homes to tented yurts perched on a cliff above the Blackfoot river—will leave little doubt in your mind that this is the West. The only real drawback is that it's not all-inclusive, which can make it harder to completely disconnect. Ultimately, though, it's kid heaven, where blessedly, iPads probably won't come out of the suitcase. Every morning brought new adventures, and by the end of the day they were ready to pass out in front of the fire.

If you were to drum up an image in your mind of what an Old West homestead should look like, you’d probably conjure up The Ranch at Rock Creek. And for good reason, as it was one, dating back to its original function as a mining claim in the 1800s (nearby Philipsburg was home to a major silver boom). It was homesteaded in the early 1900s and has been a working cattle ranch since, though it now doubles as a luxury guest ranch—and it is really, really well done. Though it’s been tastefully rehabilitated, much of the main lodge is original, and the log homes and tent-style accommodations that dot the valley seem like they could have been from that era as well, thanks to period-appropriate (though cushy) fixtures, and an incredible body of photography, all sourced from the state archives in Helena (19th century boy with pet bear? Check.). It’s all-inclusive here, and you can pick from a range of activities every morning, so if your kid falls in love with a particular horse, he can ride that horse everyday. (As a nice extra, they accommodate more advanced riders, too, which means you can actually get out and run.) There’s fly fishing, paint ball, shooting, archery, an on-site spa, and a rodeo every Tuesday night—they can also arrange for rafting, helicopter trips to Glacier or Yellowstone, or heli-hiking into the back country (those cost extra). And the food? The food is the perfect balance between comfort ranch and modern healthy— and all as locally sourced as possible. There’s a weekly post-rodeo barbecue, an evening of cooking outside in Dutch Ovens (a neat culinary trick that the chef, Josh Drage, picked up from his grandmother), interesting spins like sweet potato sandwiches, and the occasional night of wine pairings and fancy food.

Built in 1909, The Stanley was famously the inspiration for The Shining, and the hotel plays right into its reputation, offering a “night spirit tour” that features dark corners of the property where paranormal activity has been recorded. If you can get past the haunted element, it really is by far the nicest place to stay in Estes Park, especially if travelling with kids. Plus, it’s only a few miles from the park entrance, and a partnership with Kent Mountain Adventure Center means you can actually book guided hikes and other park activities along with your room. For the littles (and the grown-ups), there’s snowshoeing, back-country and cross country skiing in winter, while in the summer the hiking and wildlife viewing is just out of this world.

Incredibly well-situated with views of downtown Boulder and the mountains, St Julien is the best of both worlds one typically comes to Denver for: the great outdoors and luxuriously cozy accommodations. On offer are both outdoor adventure packages and ski escapes (thanks to a partnership with Eldora Mountain), full-service on-site spa, and afternoon tea in The Onyx Room—a stunningly gorgeous, private dining room—of the hotel’s modern, organic-and-sustainable-centric restaurant and bistro, Jill’s. In addition to the spa, a lap pool, whirlpool, and fitness center are available to guests; and (if you feel compelled to leave this has-it-all haven) it’s just a five-minute walk to the Pearl Street Mall.

Nestled at the base of Snowmass and fully ski-in/ski-out, The Viceroy is one of the best stays for families coming to the Aspen area. Ski valet, spacious multi-bedroom suites with full kitchens, and in-room washer/dryers take the stress out of gearing up for ski school. There’s also full-time childcare available on site and a heated outdoor pool that stays open year-round, making it easy to keep little ones entertained off the slopes. Adults have plenty to enjoy too. This winter, the hotel debuts Lift Line—a lively, slope-side après and dining spot —serving hearty tavern favorites like a signature double cheeseburger and creamy tomato soup. Cocktails, craft beers, and fireplace lounges give the grown-up set their own version of mountain relaxation. New additions at the Snowmass base area, including Elk Camp Sixpack and the Cirque T-Bar, make the Viceroy an even more convenient launch point for exploring the mountain all day long.

Buttermilk biscuits with a view. Equal parts luxury hotel, world-class kitchen, and working farm, this 4,200 acre foodie resort in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains is a slice of heaven for those hungry for rest, relaxation, good music, and, of course, incredible Southern cooking. Check their calendar before booking for events that may be of interest like truffle hunts, photography workshops, wellness weekends, and featured celeb chefs like Joanne Weir and Daniel Boulud.

Blackberry Farm’s sister resort, Blackberry Mountain, is the brand’s wellness-focused concept. And every aspect of the experience here is supportive of those ends. The culinary program (fantastic) is rooted in nourishing, farm-fresh meals. Activities center around mindfulness, from meditative watercolor and forest bathing to trail running and ropes courses. Guests stay in stony cottages, intimate treehouses, and multi-bedroom homes, which are clutch if you’re coming with friends. And the Joanna Czech–certified spa, the Nest, offers facials with cult-status skin care, like Biologique Recherche and Augustinus Bader.

This oceanside resort, complete with tennis courts, spa, and a fleet of charter boats, has been around for over a century and luckily, the main house has retained its understated glamour even after several updates. Whether you’re staying in the original main house or the newer stand-alone cottages or spa suites, the vibes are distinctly Cape Cod, with huge paned windows (a good chunk of the rooms have ocean views), plush beds, and shades of blue. The property is operational year-round and the deserted beach (the hotels sits on a private stretch) and ample roaring fireplaces make it an unforgettable stay off-season.

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the ocean, this historic, Victorian hotel was rescued from demolition in 2005 and lovingly restored by husband-and-wife team, Charles and Deborah Royce. In just a few years, it’s become one of the East Coast’s most favored retreats, thanks to its modern rooms, water views, cabanas, surf lessons, and fleet of yachts. The seafood-centric, on-site restaurant, Verandah—which overlooks Naragansett Bay and the Atlantic—is great, too, making for a pretty classic seaside stay. There's a lot for kids, including a kids-club if you want some alone time.

This historic landmark hotel sits on a sprawling expanse right on the Nantucket harbor. Each of the plush rooms, suites, and cottages are light and airy with elegant beachy touches. Most have a fireplace, which makes them nicely cozy for off-season stays. You can sunbathe on the lawn, or head to a nearby beach (they’ll provide the beach chairs, towels, and kids toys should you need them), or better yet, hire a Barton & Gray yacht from the hotel’s dock. The hotel is known for Brant Point Grill (the seafood is excellent), along with its spa, but if you want to get out and go to town, they provide a car service. Bring your kids! This is a family oriented hotel that provides babysitting service referrals, DVDs for little ones, a kids menu at the restaurant, and an “adventure guide” and beach toys at check-in.

The Okavango Delta is one of the most beautiful wildlife habitats in the world. Right in the heart of this wetland paradise lies Little Vumbura, a six-room camp nestled in lush greenery. The property is understated yet thoughtfully appointed with a plunge pool, star deck, and comfortable dining area—perfect for families or honeymooners. Ideally situated for elephant, lion, and hippo sighting, the little island is an animal-lover’s paradise. With your knowledgable guide in tow, you can approach the plentiful game by traditional canoe (mokoro) as well as by motor boat and 4x4. During the wet season, when the waters are high, the campgrounds can only be accessed by boat. It’s truly as authentic as it gets.

If ever there was a word to describe the fusion of glamping and safari, “San Camp” would most definitely be it. The retro-tinged tented camp is on the edge of the Makgadikgadi salt pans in the Kalahari desert in Botswana. Recently refurbished, San Camp evokes a feeling of Morocco meeting India in the African desert. Leave the serene comfort of your spacious sleeping quarters and venture into the grand mess tent, where decadent culinary masterpieces are served family style. Explore the salt pans by quad bike in the day or spend time with the meerkats. At night, soak up the retro-chic atmosphere in the warm glow of paraffin lanterns. Here, solar energy is the main source of power.

Everything about this safari camp is achingly chic (to the extent that it's Michael Kors' favorite vacation destination), from the leather and canvas washed interiors, to the long pool. Of course, that's kind of just a side note to the fact that it's in the middle of South Africa's Kreuger National Park, meaning that you get to take your laps in the morning to the sound of giraffes tussling nearby. There are also incredible views of the N'wanetsi river. While they allow kids over 10, keep in mind that a safari isn't for those who don't want to wake up early in the morning (or hate being confined to a car for most of the day). Rates include two game drives per day, walking safaris, and all meals and drinks (there's a great wine cellar).

Sitting in what is known as the Southern Alps, this New Zealand resort truly makes you feel like you've reached the edge of the earth. While you could sit and stare at the view all day, Queenstown adventures beckon, making this a really good choice if you have teens. You can take heli tours of the glaciers, bungee jump, mountain bike, or hike—and then round out your busy days with delicious meals by the fire.

This Rosewood-managed property is located in Hawke's Bay, deep in the heart of New Zealand's rich wine country—which, geographically speaking, looks as if one took the rolling hills of the Napa Valley and set them down on the edge of a dramatic seaside cliff. The internationally known golf course (which meanders its way along the aforesaid cliffs) is part of the draw here, but guests also spend their time exploring the 6,000 acres of pasture—The Farm is actually a working sheep and beef operation, and touring around by foot or on a four-wheeler, to see the full acreage and get a glimpse of the sheepdogs at work, is highly recommended. The architecture features worn wood panels on the inland side and glass, view-facing windows on the other, achieving a barn-like effect that's tempered by modern features like a sleek infinity pool. Interiors echo the modern farmhouse vibe, with cozy wooden fireplaces in every room, rustic beams crossing the vaulted ceilings, and curtains done in soft blue French ticking. The owners have two other properties in New Zealand (Matakauri, a lakeside retreat a short drive from Queenstown, and Kauri Cliffs, which has beach access in Mauri Bay), so if you're making the trek from the United States, it's worth hitting more than one over the course of the trip. P.S. Everyone's obsessed with the chocolate chip cookies from the kitchen here, for good reason.

Hailed as the Galapagos Islands of Australia, we've heard that Kangaroo Island—and more specifically, the Southern Ocean Lodge—are insane. Cantilevered out over the ocean, not only are the views epic, but you get to take them in while drinking some of Southern Australia's best wines—and after a day spent with seals, kangaroos, and any number of aquatic creatures. There's sea kayaking, hiking, and an on-site spa, with a mile-long menu of indulgences. While we can imagine checking in for a full week, this seems like a great add-on to a city adventure in Sydney.

This sustainability-minded, hyper-luxe hotel-slash-campsite nestled into the stunning UNESCO Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experience. The team does everything for you, from picking you upon arrival via a floatplane to catering to every hospitality need when you're staying in your own private–and lavish–safari-style tent. The daily activities are seemingly endless, from hiking to horseback riding to salmon fishing–all of which leave you hungry and even more appreciative of the decadent, local, chef-prepared meals served daily. There's even a spa on location, offering restorative massages and yoga.

The relationship between the Fogo Island Inn and the beautiful community and physical landscape in which it exists is pretty incredible. Conceived as a social enterprise to support the tiny, yet sturdy outport community on the island, it provides jobs, celebrates local cuisine, and donates all of its proceeds to community programming. The inn itself is a gorgeous, simple, modern building that juts out in juxtaposition to, yet somehow at harmony with, the rocky outcroppings of the landscape. For visitors, the quaint quality of the place inspires plenty of hand holding: In the summer and fall, you can hike the idyllic trails in search of wild berries and local wildlife, like caribou, foxes, puffins, and migrating whales—in the winter, you'll find ice fishing, picturesque snowfall, and plenty of cozy fires. The décor (not surprisingly, all of the furniture was built by the locals) is modern but cozy, with Scandinavian-feeling wooden shapes and warm, hand-made quilts. As you might expect, the views out of the wide, modern windows are nothing less than jaw-dropping.

With the rolling waves of the Pacific Ocean out front, a dense rainforest in the back, and jagged cliffs or beaches on either side, family-owned hotel The Wickaninnish Inn is about as close to nature as you can get without pitching a tent among the pine trees. Though overused, in the context of its driftwood-dotted interiors, ample fireplaces (there’s one in every room), and on-site woodcarving shed, “rustic” is by far the best adjective for describing the inn’s warm, welcoming personality. For storm chasers, observation points to take in the drama from a comfortable distance are scattered throughout the property, including the guestrooms, where floor-to-ceiling windows, overstuffed chairs, and binoculars are worked into the minimalist décor for that very purpose. (For those hell-bent on experiencing some weather first hand, each room comes with rain gear and wellies). Best of all, you can get a view from the top before you even step foot on the grounds by hopping on a seaplane over from the mainland.

Situated in the Wasatch mountains about twenty-five(ish) minutes outside of Park City, The Lodge at Blue Sky isn’t exactly a “lodge” at all. At least not since Auberge Resorts took over in 2019. Sure, there are working stables, wild elk roaming freely, even a horse refuge on property (and by property, we mean 3,500 acres of sweeps-you-off-your-feet serenity). You’ll also find things like a gorgeous spa built right into the surrounding landscape. Creekside Cabins and design-centric Earth Suites with marshmallowy beds, sliding glass doors, and firepits to huddle around with s’mores. There’s even a High West Distillery about five-minutes down the road. And then, of course, there are the activities: snowshoeing, skeet shooting, horse riding, fly fishing, heli-skiing, axe-throwing, whiskey sipping, and too many only-on-a-ranch activities to list here. The hardest decision you’ll have to make is whether to step foot off property or not.

In true Montage form, there is nothing understated about this palatial resort nestled in the Utah mountains. While the main event is obviously on the slopes, there's plenty for those who aren't inclined to strap on skis (or who want to recover from a yard sale on the mountain). The spa is great (if you do anything book in for the Tata Harper Floral Facial), there's a kid's club for little ones who are cold-averse, and there's snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice skating on the roster of activities. The hotel has a variety of dining options too, meaning you don't have to leave the property if you don't want to: Apex serves a hearty skier's brunch buffet daily (try the gluten-free banana bread), while Yama Suhi, overlooking the Empire lift, serves a solid mix of rolls and sashimi as well as sake flights. Downstairs, Daly's Pub has a rec-room feel with a dartboard, vintage arcade games, and even a bowling alley, plus a menu of shareable brick-oven pizzas that are sure to please. Plus, from 4pm to 5pm in the winter months, and 8pm to 9pm in the summer, the hotel offers gourmet marshmallows (cinnamon, anyone?) for roasting on the open fire pits. The resort is a great destination in warmer months, too.

Robert Redford bought the land that Sundance Resort sits on back in the 1960's, when he first started coming to Utah. Investors encouraged him to develop it by adding condominiums and rentals, but Redford insisted on keeping as much of the area pristine as possible, creating a community centered around creativity and conservation. Unsurprisingly, the aesthetic of the lodge here is reminiscent of the resort's namesake catalog, with wood-paneled walls, cozy flannel bedding, and working fireplaces—there are standard rooms available, but for longer trips, check into an apartment-like suite outfitted with a full kitchen. Staying here, you'll be right at the base of the property's namesake mountain, which, at only three chairs, is smaller than nearby Deer Valley, but intimate and unique in a very special way.

This ski-in-ski-out lodge is named for the famous Norwegian skier, who made his home in Park City for most of his life and served as a host here for many years. One of the most luxurious places to stay in town, it's known for excellent service—ski valets will whisk away your skis and serve hot apple cider at the end of a ski day, and there's a concierge on-hand to light the fireplace in your bedroom. We love the multi-room suites here for longer stays with a family, as they're outfitted with small kitchens for easy dinners and washer/dryers that come in handy for drying out frozen ski socks or long johns. Even if you're staying elsewhere, it's worth checking out the spa, which has a heated outdoor pool with stunning views of the Wasatch range.

Tucked into the center of lower Main Street near the town lift, the charmingly refurbished Washington School House has twelve rooms, done up with reclaimed oak wood floors, all-white interiors, and vintage rugs—a welcome alternative to some of the splashier resorts in town. The overall vibe feels much more Parisian apartment than it does rustic alpine chalet. The complimentary breakfast is great (order the pancakes), while the heated pool and outdoor fire pit are big draws for après seekers.

With wraparound views of the Empire Express chairlift at the base of Deer Valley Mountain, Burgers & Bourbon is the kind of place that hits the spot after a day on the slopes. Burgers are obviously the thing to order; there are thirteen types on the menu, ranging from a wild turkey burger served with green goddess dressing to blackened ahi tuna with Asian slaw. (Since you’re going for it, you might as well order the trio of fries.) They deliver on the bourbon as well: There are over 200 types of bourbons and whiskeys, or you can opt for the local flight, three kinds of whiskey from local favorite High West Distillery.

Chef Arturo Flores cut his teeth working for beloved local restaurateur Bill White before joining the team at Chimayo over a decade ago. Chimayo has become something of an institution in town, and Flores and his team keep things exciting by using seasonal ingredients and riffing on classic Southwestern cuisine. Of particular note: the guacamole Azteca, served with snow crab, stuffed avocado and roasted vegetables and Tierra + Mar fajitas, a happy mix of kobe steak, jumbo shrimp, and pico de gallo. The overall aesthetic feels equally transforming—there’s Mexican tile flooring, washed brick walls, and woven throw pillows throughout the space. When it comes to cocktails, just ask your server to keep the house’s signature Chimayo Margarita coming.

Eating Establishment holds the distinction of being the oldest restaurant in town (it first opened in 1972); consequently, the vibe is a little more low-key than some of the other restaurants on Main Street, with a cozy fireplace in the back and a diner-style menu that serves breakfast all day long. When new ownership bought the place last year, they upgraded it with a new bar (which serves excellent cocktails), so it's a good après spot, too. Any time of day, the classic order is the Miner's Dawn Skillet: a mix of potatoes, onions, and cheese, topped with over-easy eggs, which has been on the menu since the '70s. As the restaurant's official saying goes: They're not good because they're old, they're old because they're good.

Upper mountain's Empire Canyon Lodge serves dinner Wednesday through Saturday until early April. It's a hearty, four-course, set-price menu—cheese, cured meats, stews, roasted leg of lamb, Swiss dishes like rösti potatoes—served from their stone fireplaces. You also have the option of adding some outdoor adventure to your dinner: with a snowshoe trek before, or you can arrange for a horse-drawn sleigh ride there.

In local son John Murcko's latest project, you'll find a high-ceilinged, industrial space where the center of the action is the open kitchen—and a dining room that is separated from the kitchen by a wall of vintage-schoolhouse-style windows. Over an open flame, Murcko cooks up everything from grilled oysters and ember-roasted cauliflower to pecan-grilled scallops with pea risotto. The frequently-changing menu sources its ingredients from local purveyors like Beehive Cheese, Bear Lake Beef, and Slide Ridge Honey. There’s an intimate 8-seat private room, dubbed the Chef’s Library, which is full of Murcko's favorite cookbooks, just to the right of the kitchen. (He may even pop his head in and say hi while you're dining.) Inquire about the beautiful, reclaimed wooden dining tables and your server will likely tell you they were hand-hewn by Chef himself at his cabin in Southern Utah. Cap off the night with a Smoke Show (High West Rendezvous Rye, charred blood orange, bitters, and rosemary) cocktail at the Nickel Bar downstairs.

The best thing about this cozy Italian spot is their sweet little patio, which is best experienced in the summer, under the twinkle lights they string between the building and the surrounding trees. The menu is classic Italian—hearty meat dishes and generous pastas that are blessedly filling after a long day of hiking or biking. In winter months, the fondue (why not?) and grappa's homemade wild mushroom soup are satisfyingly warm, as is the candlelit dining room.

The seasonally driven menu and lively atmosphere are two of the biggest draws to this unassuming spot, located in a strip mall just a block off the action on Main Street. Chef Briar Handly (formerly of Talisker on Main) serves up fresh twists on American classics in the form of shareable plates with ingredients sourced from neighboring Colorado, Idaho, and of course, Utah. An easy-to-navigate menu is divided into four parts: bites, cold, hot, and hearty. Crowd pleasers include the Rattlesnake cocktail, buffalo-style cauliflower (their brilliant, veggie-based take on wings), and smoked trout sausage, based on a recipe from Handly’s grandmother. Regulars wax poetic about the Caramel Budino with Chex toppings—they’re not wrong. Photographs courtesy of Kerri Fukui for cityhomeCOLLECTIVE

One of the more upscale spots in town, Riverhorse is great for a special occasion, white-tablecloth kind of meal: The old-school menu features a few cuts of steak, local rainbow trout, scallops, and vegetable-heavy side dishes that change with the season. The second-floor patio overlooks Main Street and makes a great hangout come warm summer evenings. (The cocktail list is wonderful, too.) They've also got pleasant, blessedly subtle live music most nights year-round.

This casual go-to does cozy food with mid-mountain views. Part of Silver Lake Lodge, it's below Bald Mountain—in the winter, you can watch skiers coming down the slope for lunch; in summer, it's mountain bikers. On a warm day, you'll find people sprawled out picnic-style on the field in front of the restaurant, or playing some lawn games (cornhole, anyone?). There's usually a bit of a wait for a table, but the superb people-watching is an easy way to pass the time.

Situated down the road from Main Street (and, fortunately, far enough away from its chaos), Windy Ridge feels like a true local's place. They bill themselves as a destination for comfort food, and the menu has plenty of fried favorites like popcorn shrimp and onion rings, plus hearty post-ski dishes like meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, and roasted chicken with mashed potatoes; their southwest corn chowder is famous. Good to know: They do prepared dinners for families of four, which can be clutch when you're renting, or if you have your own place.

Yukiyama flies their fish in fresh, so everything behind their quaint sushi bar is just as good as what you'd find on the coast. That said, the menu is also rounded out with warming udon and ramen, plus some Korean dishes, like a bibimbap-style rice bowl and a Kimchee ramen, which are just what the doctor ordered after a cold day on the mountain. The sake menu is excellent, too.

Located right in town, 350 Main has been a Park City dinner spot for more than two decades. They are big on local ingredients, and even draw a bit from their own urban garden. Notable on the main menu: the gluten-free fried chicken with apple jam, buttermilk mashed potatoes, kale, and carrots. The bar here has a separate tapas-only menu if you aren't looking for a full meal. Also of note: 350 Main has a few different substantial private dining options, including a fireside terrace space and an interior dining room that can seat up to fifty-five.

Tucked between the base of Ruby and Empire Express lifts at the edge of the Montage, the bright yellow façade makes it awfully hard to miss this spot. Ski shop Gorsuch outfitted the interiors of the Veuve-stocked yurt with faux fur throws, antler chandeliers, and buffalo-plaid overstuffed chairs. They’re only open for a few hours mid-day, making it the perfect stop if you’re calling it a day early or looking for a spot to hang out before après is in full swing.

This good-vibes café is family run with a literary bent—you can exchange or drop off used books for credit, or just browse the eclectic shelves as you re-fuel. They have a full-on tea menu, serving everything from the essential matcha latte, to several different chai variations (turmeric, masala-spiced, pumpkin with the option of espresso), to tea lattes with hemp/almond milk. There is, of course, coffee, too; and Atticus serves salads and wraps, made-to-order until 3pm, as well as smoothies.

Open since 1997, El Chubasco excels at uncomplicated, no-frills, really, really good Mexican good. You order at the counter—all the basics you'd want are on offer—and grab a seat in their small interior space or on the outdoor patio (season/weather-dependent). Also a good to-go option, and El Chubasco caters, too.

New kid on the block Five5eeds is totally in line with the Aussie café culture that's sweeping NYC and SF these days. Settle in for a nourishing plate of Moroccan shakshouka or the PC superfood grain salad (wild rice, quinoa, farro, BBQ charred corn, chai-soaked goji berries, and arugula). For the littles, there's a special menu featuring a mini stack of hotcakes and fruit. Currently they're open for breakfast and lunch.

This sweet little restaurant is nestled at the base of Main Street, with a lovely bar for coffee and pastries, plus bar-stool-height tables for those who want to stay a little longer. The menu is full of super-fresh, (mostly) healthy breakfast and lunch items, like a breakfast buddha bowl with eggs and pumpkin puree, paleo banana bread with honeyed ricotta, and salmon and quinoa salad, and there's a full espresso bar serving fair-trade-roasted beans. It's the perfect place to stop in for breakfast en route to the mountain.

Right next to the Town Lift in Park City, High West is billed as the world’s first and only ski-in/ski-out gastro-distillery. Warm up at the bar (it’s made of reclaimed wood from a 1904 Salt Lake bridge) and order their chicken pot pie and a barrel-aged Manhattan. If you’re feeling extra-indulgent, the mac-and-cheese—made with smoked cheddar, jalapeno, and bacon—is well worth it, as is the sweet potato gratin. For a quick lesson in how small-batch spirits are made, including a look at their 250-gallon copper sill, free tours are given daily at 11:30am, 1pm, and 2:30pm. Slightly further afield (but worth the trek) in Wanship, High West's new distillery and tasting room offers tours, whiskey tastings, and a small, Western-inflected menu for snacking.

If you're staying with friends on your trip, consider this ground zero for hostess gifts. They source the highest-quality olive oil from producers in Australia, Europe, California, and North Africa, plus plenty of balsamic vinegars to complement the selection. You'll also find other giftable items, like soap, candles, and kitchen accessories.

This notoriously rowdy spot is the oldest, and arguably the most popular bar in town. Their rooftop is an excellent place to grab a beer with a view during the day, though it stays open well into the wee hours. This is also an excellent place to watch a game.

O’Shucks Bar & Grill is exactly what it looks like: It’s a no-fuss dive bar, where you can get cheap beer and play Big Buck Hunter in the back. While the dark, brick-lined space itself is certainly nothing to write home about, it’s a great antidote to the rest of Park City—this is the kind of place where the ski instructors hang out, and you can unwind with a game of shuffleboard, pinball, or pool.

You wouldn’t think to make a quick stop at a strip mall in Kimball Junction on your way back out to SLC, but trust us: This beats anything you’ll find at the airport, and it’s a welcome respite from all the heavy (albeit delicious) food you’ll have encountered in town. Look for avocado toast served with a poached egg and chili flakes; grain bowls, and hearty vegetable soups, as well as Brussel sprouts, sweet potato hash, roasted cauliflower, and spicy kimchi slaw—all of which are great to share with a group. There’s kombucha from Salt Lake City maker Mamachari on tap, too.

This shop on Main Street has a surprisingly forward-thinking buy for a resort town, but owner/buyer Katie’s style fits in seamlessly at any of Park City’s casual bars and restaurants. Expect to find shelves stocked with Frame denim, Rag & Bone sweaters, and Sundry loungewear (perfect for fireside après), plus picks from See by Chloe and ALC.

Down to the chalkboards with quotes from famous authors and the resident cats that hang out in different parts of the store, Dolly's is a small-town bookstore straight out of central casting. They've been in business for more than thirty years on the same cute corner of Main Street. P.S. The kids section is great.

Locals and best friends from grade school, Blair Isleib and Kristen Doyon, had stints in the New York and LA fashion worlds before they moved home to Park City to start their families and go into business for themselves. Their surprisingly big boutique (don't forget to go upstairs) has a lot of merchandise across a healthy range of price points—you'll find practical mountain gear, like cashmere turtlenecks, floral patterned ski socks, and Sorel boots, alongside more trend-focused pieces, like velvet bomber jackets and long-sleeved bodysuits, that will work just as well back at home.

Even non-skiers are familiar with Gorsuch's ubiquitous catalog, which has become synonymous with a glittery, European-inspired mountain aesthetic (although founders David and Renie Gorsuch, who met at the 1960 Olympics, are Colorado-based Americans). Sure, some of the merchandise skews a little over-the-top, but you can always count on them to stock all of the classic luxury ski apparel brands, like Bogner, Moncler, and Frauenschuh. As for the fur-hooded jackets and Dale of Norway sweaters—when in Rome, right? (P.S.: Just a few doors up 333 Main Street, there's a Gorsuch ski shop, should you decide to upgrade your gear while you're in town.)

Park City Mercantile is one of those stores that wouldn’t look out of place on say, Abbot Kinney in Venice, but it gets it right as a kind of modern-day general store in Park City, too. The light-wooden shelves are overflowing with Farmhouse pottery, cozy Faribault woolen blankets, soaps from Juniper Ridge, Tanner Goods leather bracelets, and Coyuchi linens. All of the dry goods come from locally sourced vendors, like Pink Elephant Coffee Roasters. (Meanwhile, Land Juicery is just a few doors up, so you can sip pressed green juice while you shop.)

A skate shop in a ski town doesn’t sound so novel but Prospect is far from run-of-the-mill. Here, you’ll find an interesting high-low edit: Socks by Stance (there’s some for ladies too), hoodies from WeSc, slick Nixon watches. Tucked into the back corner is Billy's Barber Shop, an Orange Country import, that features an antique barber chair and traditional lather machine to boot. Swing by to clean up with a hot shave (or haircut if you've gone full-on mountain man) before dinner on Main. Upstairs, there are pressed juices and elixirs by Land Juicery, as well as coffee from Pink Elephant.

Owner Melissa Barry knows that mountain home design needn’t be limited to Pendleton blankets, buffalo plaid, and faux-fur throws. Here, her more modern take includes an airier palette (French mid-century arm chairs and Notte bed linens). Don't worry, you'll still find a few tasteful nods to alpine living: a coffee table must-have The Stylish Life: Skiing, hair-on-hide throw pillows, and a hard-carved wooden stag head. Barry's edit feels tasteful, not gimmicky. Upstairs doubles as a showroom for larger interior design projects.

This local bowling alley, with its original ball returns and pin machines, is a bit of a time-warp—and it’s awesome. The same family has run Holiday Lanes since 1964, and they’re known for their classic malt, which they make using hand-mixing machines from the 60's. We recommend the burgers and fries, too, which are almost as much of a draw as the bowling.

The experts at Jans can pretty much get you through any mountain adventure—in the winter, they focus on the three major ski groups: alpine, nordic, and backcountry. In the summer, book them for fly fishing—they make the sport fun for first-timers, and have access to locals-only spots where you’ll have the best chance of catching something.

Every August, Utah’s longest continually operating festival heads to town, taking over blocks-long Main Street and checking the requisite food, art, and music boxes along with it. Over the course of three days, some 225 jury-selected artists across categories like drawing, photography, and woodworking head to town to show off their wares. For the artists, it’s the opportunity to go home with a “Best in Show” award, and for the visitors, it marks the chance to discover and take home works from up-and-coming artists from across the country. (Proceeds from the festival allow the Kimball Arts Center to provide free year-round exhibitions, tours, and gallery talks for its patrons.) Local food trucks like Bruges Waffle Bus and Black’s Sliders decamp throughout the festival blocks, and there’s a rotating roster of live music acts.

Located in the heart of Park City on Main Street, this cultural hub brings big-name acts to the alpine village. In the summer, the Big Stars, Bright Nights series, held in Deer Valley’s Snow Park Outdoor Amphitheater at the base of the resort, is a huge crowd-pleaser. (Past seasons included Willie Nelson, Esperanza Spalding, and Mike Posner.) Throughout the year, the performing arts center hosts a varied roster from the likes of Alan Cumming, the Alvin Ailey Dance Company, and New York Times columnist Maureen Dowd, for a series of performances and intimate-yet-engaging talks.

Sure, snowmobiling is kind of an athletic cop-out—but if you’re going to do it while you’re in Park City, this is the place. Summit Meadows Adventures offers guided tours (for groups, or just you) in Browns Canyon where you can explore 7,000 acres with spectacular views of the the Wasatch Mountains. They also offer complimentary transportation from Park City (it’s just ten minutes from Main Street), plus helmets.

When the snow finally melts for the summer, Park City turns the base of their mountain (including the bottom-most runs) into a playspace for littles, with zip lines, a ropes course, a summer tubing track, rock climbing wall, mini-rollercoasters, and a temporary playground, plus ample areas to sit out in the sun and watch. It's also home base for gondola rides, mountain bike trails, and some great hiking.

You can log some serious miles on your Fitbit with Park City’s extensive network of scenic cross country trails set among the Uinta Mountains. (About 50 miles of which are totally groomed.) They also offer moonlight snowshoeing tours through Deer Valley Resort's Empire Pass for those who want a glimpse of alpine life after hours. White Pine can set you up with rentals for just about any excursion.

Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Brighton & Solitude (which are separate mountains, though you can access them with one pass if you choose) feel a little less commercial and a little more local than their bigger counterparts in other areas of the Wasatch. It's true that you won't find the same masses of terrain, but you will find shorter lift lines—in fact, this can be a great place to come on a powder day, since you won't be battling for fresh turns with the rest of Utah. Brighton's on-mountain terrain isn't huge, but they've got a great terrain park and an open-bounds policy that makes it remarkably easy to cross over into the backcountry. Solitude has historically been a locals' secret for great powder, and a recent buyout by Deer Valley means big infrastructure upgrades are likely in the works.

Nestled in the Wasatch Mountain range, Deer Valley Resort consistently tops lists for its customer service. In skiing parlance, that translates to on-site ski valets to help you unload your gear, immaculately groomed slopes, and well-appointed lodges. (Stop for lunch at Royal Street Café at Silver Lake Lodge—it's far cry from the cafeteria-style dining you're used to mid-mountain.) What's nice about Deer Valley is there's a little something for everyone, making it a great mountain for families—there are easy cruisers like Bluebell and Lucky Jack, plus some solid steeps like Daly Bowl and Lady Morgan. Deer Valley is one of the last skiers-only holdouts, so like neighboring Alta, no snowboarders are permitted. Photos courtesy of Deer Valley Resort

The big news in Park City is that the town's namesake resort was purchased by Vail, which could be good or bad news depending on who you talk to. Vail already owned the formerly-named Canyons, Park City's northern sister, and the acquisition gave them the opportunity to install a brand-new, eight-person gondola connecting the two resorts from peak to peak and expanding the ski-able terrain to an (astonishing) combined 7,300 acres. Über-convenient for people staying near Main Street, you can actually access Park City from right downtown, making the entire town virtually ski-in, ski-out. A mountain this huge is guaranteed to have a wide range of terrain, but considering the unbelievable number of groomed runs, the sweet spot here is for intermediate skiers. Needless to say, it's also great for littles who've graduated from the magic carpet. Tip: If you're planning on multiple ski trips this year, consider investing in the Epic Pass, Vail Resorts' multi-mountain pass, which gives you unlimited access to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Whistler-Blackcomb, and plenty more for a fixed price.

While Alta and Snowbird are distinct mountains (note that Alta isn't snowboard-friendly, while Snowbird is), the next-door-neighbors offer a joint pass called the Altabird, so it's fun to hit them both on the same day if you can. Alta is Utah's classic advanced-skier mountain, with some of the steepest terrain in the Wasatch—it's here that you'll find a lot of hardcore locals, in part because you can access plenty of backcountry via Catherine's Pass. Snowbird is famous for its aerial tram, which takes you all the way to the top of the mountain in one ride and has stunning views—like Alta, it's also home to some steeper, more advanced terrain than the other mountains in the area. Both of these mountains are excellent on a powder day, but you'll have to beat the locals to get any of the good stuff—expect them to be tracked out by 11am at the latest.

A membership to Silver Mountain gets you a ticket to pretty much any type of fitness class you could want at a gym: They offer everything from barre and pilates, to boot-camp style workouts, to spinning, aqua aerobics, and three levels of yoga classes. In addition to the next-level class selection, some of which take place in rooms with spectacular views of the mountains, the facility is also home to heated lap pools, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, steam rooms, and a dry sauna. Adults can also make appointments from a menu of facials, massages, body treatments, and hair and nail services.

The Spa at Stein Eriksen Lodge is pretty large, spanning 23,000 square feet and housing sixteen treatment rooms, with separate men’s and women’s relaxation rooms, each of which have access to a sauna, steam room, and hot and cold plunge baths. In addition to a classic menu of top-notch massages and body treatments, couples can check into one of the spa’s treatment suites outfitted with private showers, tubs, and a fireplace.

The spa at the Montage is hands-down our favorite spot in the city—the design takes its cues from the surrounding mountains, so you’ll find a pool with spectacular views, and individual soaking tubs nestled next to the fire, plus the requisite sauna and treatment rooms.

At YMI, you’ll find yoga classes that are guaranteed to make you sweat, not just because the practice is Baptiste-inspired (a type of hot yoga), but because the flow is pretty challenging and aimed at helping you detox your body—and mind. All levels are welcome, and you can take the class in a 60-, 75-, or 90-minute form.