The Best Resort Towns In America

With temperatures throughout much of the country in the single or low double digits, thinking about a summery resort might seem like unnecessary torture—or it might offer a much-needed mental escape. If you fall into the latter category, here are our picks for the top resort towns right here in America.

Aspen, CO

One of the toniest mountain towns in America, Aspen is surrounded by towering mountains and affords visitors stunning views from their hikes, paraglides, and kayaking excursions. For those who would prefer to skip the physical exertion, a gondola will take you to the top of a mountain overlooking the town, where you can order truffle fries and rosé.

Palm Springs, CA

St. Helena, CA

Nestled in the middle of Napa Valley, St. Helena is the ideal place to stay while exploring the surrounding countryside. Charming bed and breakfasts and Michelin-starred restaurants complement the array of world-class wineries surrounding this picturesque California town.

Nantucket, MA

Situated off the coast of Cape Cod, Nantucket is one of the preppiest enclaves in the country. Rose-covered cottages, white picket fences, wild beach dune grass, and early morning fog commingle to create the island’s singular charm.

Key West, FL

Part of the Florida Keys archipelago, Key West has plenty to offer seekers of sun and relaxation. Pristine colonial Spanish architecture will interest the aesthetically inclined, and long stretches of immaculate beachfront will appeal to sun worshipers. And the nightlife options can’t be beat, especially for a resort town, in case you’re the type who prefers to start your night on the later side.

Little St. Simons Island, GA

If you’re really looking to get away from it all, Little St. Simons Island can help you do that. Located off the coast of Georgia, the remote island has just one lodge, which hosts a maximum of 32 guests at a time. Only serious nature enthusiasts need inquire.

Edgartown, MA

The main town in tony Martha’s Vineyard, Edgartown is the ideal base from which Vineyard visitors can embark upon their surfing, biking, or sunning adventures. Martha’s Vineyard is the Obamas’ summer vacation destination of choice, so you never know who you might run into in town.

East Hampton, NY

Beautiful and serene, East Hampton is a quieter alternative to buzzy Southampton and hopping Montauk. The 1770 House is beloved for its charming rooms and hydrangea-filled gardens, as well as its restaurant, which is a favorite with celebrities such as Alec Baldwin.

Lake Geneva, WI

A favored summer destination for Midwesterners, Lake Geneva has plenty to recommend it. Well-heeled Midwesterners have been building in Lake Geneva since the mid-19th century, so opulent historical architecture abounds. Water sports are the main attraction here, but those who prefer to stay dry can opt for horseback riding or hiking.

Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Island may be small, but it has 26 golf courses, so if you’re a fan, best to consider teeing up. A number of excellent resorts accompany many of the courses.

San Juan Islands, WA

A boat ride or short puddle-jumper plane from Seattle will get you to the San Juan Islands, a gorgeous archipelago that can be explored together or one at a time. The big island is called San Juan, and unless you’re staying at a private house, it’s where you’ll likely be based. Charming shops and sailboats abound.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.