My favorite season is officially almost here, which means Memorial Day is around the corner. If you’re still making plans, why not opt for something a little different this year? Sure, the classics like Cape Cod or Montauk never disappoint, but I'm getting hyped for a more unexpected getaway to kick off the summer season.
Why stray from the go-to’s, you ask? For starters, travelers are chomping at the bit to travel this summer, making popular coastal destinations all the more in-demand. Many hotels and rentals are already booked solid for the holiday weekend – which means traffic and crowds.
But opting for an under-the-radar location is about more than just avoiding the crowds. It’s about giving business to a destination that needs it. In several less popular (but equally awesome) destinations, many hotels are eager to welcome weekenders.
Convinced? I've rounded up a few unexpected hotel picks for your holiday weekend, each located within driving distance of several US cities. From a countryside retreat in Virginia to a retro-chic hideaway in San Antonio, these are some great hotels that you can still book today.
From NYC... escape to Rhode Island
Image courtesy of The Preserve Sporting Club
The Preserve Rhode Island
Move over, Newport: this luxurious outdoor playground is one of the Ocean State’s best-kept secrets. Guests come for the epic outdoor adventures – including archery, fishing and golf – and stay for the finer things on offer, including the OH! Spa and luxurious cabin accommodations. Don’t miss a meal at the charmingly kitschy Hobbit House, serving grilled specialties paired with Maker’s Mark bourbon.
From LA... get away to Malibu
Image courtesy of Malibu Beach Inn
Malibu Beach Inn
Despite its proximity to the second homes of LA’s glitterati, this breezy hotel remains delightfully low-key. Each of the coastal-chic guest rooms has a balcony overlooking the ocean, and boasts amenities like high-tech entertainment systems and luxurious Italian linens. The hotel wins extra points for its romantic, sea-to-table dining overlooking the Pacific.
Fora Perks:
$100 resort credit
Breakfast daily
Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible
From SF... head to Napa Valley
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley
Four Seasons Napa Valley
High-luxury meets California-cool at this newly-opened retreat on a gorgeous vineyard in Calistoga. With a sleek design, vibrant Mexican eatery and destination spa (it was the first in wine country to offer Biologique Recherche products), the Four Seasons is a veritable adult playground. But children are also welcome, with ample kid’s activities like bocce ball courts and a family pool.
Fora Perks:
When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
From DC... visit Charlottesville, Virginia
Image courtesy of Keswick Hall
Keswick Hall, Charlottesville
Just a few hours’ drive from DC, this grand resort beckons weekenders with its infinity-edge pool, award-winning golf course and extra dose of southern hospitality. I love the hotel’s plush rooms, with hardwood floors, pastel patterns and plenty of natural light. And did we mention the Jean-Georges restaurant? Marigold serves elevated classics like roasted lamb and carrot cake, with ultra-fresh ingredients sourced from a local farm.
Fora Perks:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
$100 Resort or Hotel credit to be utilized during stay
From Austin... go to San Antonio
Image courtesy of @nicksimonite
Hotel Havana, San Antonio
This Art Deco boutique hotel is an ode to all things Havana, and its colorful Ocho restaurant is a local favorite on the Riverwalk. Guests stay in gorgeously appointed rooms, with vintage furniture, pops of color and retro-chic refrigerators (stocked with plenty of libations). The hotel is also dog-friendly.
Fora Perks:
$25 food and beverage credit per room per day
Room upgrades, subject to availability
Welcome treat in room on arrival
