Most of us can't wait until Memorial Day weekend at end of May because it marks the start of summer. Whether your idea of a dream vacation is relaxing on a beach by the sea or mountain biking through a national park, longer days and warm weather make it easy to have fun outdoors.
Utah - Desert Pearl Inn
Commanding a spectacular location on the banks of the Virgin River at the entrance to the famous Zion National Park in Springdale, Desert Pearl Inn is a luxurious haven in the western desert that promises an unforgettable getaway. You will be surrounded by the spectacular scenery of sun-drenched cliffs, manicured lawns and Navajo Sandstone. Relax in the freeform outdoor swimming pool and hot tub to the sounds of a nearby waterfall, or stroll through the tranquil gardens in search of butterflies and birds. Impressively large rooms and suites offer sophisticated style and are beautifully furnished with natural materials that blend with the surrounding landscape. Guest accommodations offer the convenience of fully equipped kitchens, individual climate control, wireless Internet and breathtaking views. Start the morning with gourmet coffee and freshly baked muffins from the Periodic Table. Lunch and dinner is served at the Highway Restaurant, where you can dine on gourmet locally-inspired dishes.
707 Zion Park Blvd., Springdale, UT 84767, Phone: 435-772-8888
Wisconsin - Camp Wandawega
With a rich history that dates back to 1925, Camp Wandawega is a unique guest camp on the shores of Lake Wandawega in Wisconsin. The property offers a rustic camp experience and a true escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Choose from a variety of accommodation, ranging from vintage cabins, bunkhouses and bungalows to treehouses, teepees and tents, all of which are simply furnished with the bare essentials, inviting you to let go and re-connect with nature. There is a private beach, fishing pier, boating, canoeing, biking, fishing, hiking, tennis and shuffleboard. Outdoor grills and barbeques are available around the resort for cookouts under the stars.
W5453 Lake View Dr, Elkhorn, WI 53121
South Carolina - Montage Palmetto Bluff
Montage Palmetto Bluff is a luxury getaway with suites, cottages and homes surrounded by forest and water views. Amenities include verandahs with gorgeous views, fireplaces, and high ceilings. Spa Montage Palmetto Bluff relies on natural inspiration to help guests relax, offering a range of body therapies, massages and facials. Palmetto Bluff is set on over 20,000 acres which you can explore by bike on the 32 miles of waterfront. There resort provides access to the Palmetto Bluff Shooting Club, May River Golf Course, Wilson Lawn and Racquet Club, and Longfield Stables. Throughout the community, you will get to admire a wide range of sculptures and seasonal community art shows. In addition to optional in-room dining, guests can enjoy seasonally-inspired cuisine made with native ingredients and a reverence for the Southern classics at The Carolina Room. The Canoe Club provides beautiful views and features southern comfort dining, with emphasis on seafood, while Buffalo’s, set within Wilson Village, offers casual southern cuisine.
476 Mount Pelia Road, Bluffton, SC 29910, Phone: 843-706-6500
Idaho - The Wallace Inn
Nestled at the foot of the towering Bitterroot Mountains, the newly renovated Wallace Inn is a contemporary mountain retreat in the heart of North Idaho’s spectacular Silver Valley. Surrounded by breath-taking natural beauty, dense forested slopes, and endless blue skies, this modern hotel is the perfect place to recharge over a long weekend. Fifty-nine well-appointed guest rooms and four luxurious suites are spacious and bright, with modern décor and an array of deluxe amenities, including individual climate control, cable TV, and an in-room coffee service. All rooms have beautiful mountain views and there is complimentary wireless Internet throughout the hotel. The indoor pool has a skylight through which you can enjoy the view while going for a swim. Facilities include a sauna, steam room and a fitness room. Molly’s at the Inn serves delicious farm-fresh fare throughout the day in a sunny setting, where cozy booths and lovely mountain views add a special touch to your meal. The quiet ambiance of O’Rourke’s Lounge is ideal for relaxing over a nightcap and chatting with fellow guests.
100 Front Street, Wallace, ID 83873, Phone: 208-752-1252
Sausalito - Casa Madrona
Casa Madrona is one of San Francisco’s timeless and beloved icons with a 125 history. Perched on a hillside overlooking the bay in the charming town of Sausalito, this luxurious boutique hotel seamlessly blends style and innovation to offer a luxurious escape. Unparalleled grandeur is reflected in Casa Madrona’s signature 11-roomed residence, The Mansion.
Built in 1885, the exquisite Victorian estate has been redesigned to create a private, ethereal ambiance with spectacular panoramic views. The hotel also offers apartment-style accommodation in the Hillside Suites, complete with modern amenities and overlooking Richardson Bay. Welcoming hospitality and outstanding service greets you on arrival at this luxurious hotel. Guests have access to a private spa and steam room, a swimming pool and a range of services including daily newspapers, porter assistance, and 24-hour room service. Classic Italian fare is served at Poggio Trattoria next door to the hotel.
801 Bridgeway, Sausalito, CA 94965, Phone: 800-288-0502
Vermont - The Wildflower Inn
Overlooking rolling green hills, tree-lined pastures and breathtaking Vermont farm country, the Wildflower Inn is a glorious sanctuary in Vermont's Northeast Kingdom. Once a 100-cow dairy farm, the Wildflower Inn has been lovingly transformed into a quaint, village-like setting with renovated carriage barns, country collectibles, and wonderful countryside views. Twenty-four comfortable guest rooms and suites have been decorated to provide a peaceful countryside ambiance. Rooms do not have televisions; however, there is wireless Internet throughout the retreat. A hearty farmhouse breakfast is served every morning and afternoon snacks are available in the lounge where you can relax in style. The surrounding Northeast Kingdom is a veritable outdoor adventure heaven with a plethora of activities to enjoy year-round, from hiking, mountain biking, swimming and fishing to cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. After a busy day outdoors, re-energize with pampering treatments from the Stepping Stone Spa.
2059 Darling Hill Road, Lyndonville, VT 05851, Phone: 802-626-8310
The Gasparilla Inn and Club
The Gasparilla Inn and Club is an elegant, historic golf resort located on Gasparilla Island, about 53 miles from Sarasota. Stately and ornate and built in 1913, this classic upscale resort is a reminder of the “Old Florida” of more elegant times. The resort’s 142 luxury suites and rooms are decorated with vintage pieces, brightly colored and comfortable, and equipped with all modern amenities. Villas and cottages have screened porches, living areas, and kitchenettes. The guests can enjoy the beach club, private golf club, several tennis courts, a gym, and a spa. There is also a croquet lawn, a bakery, a marina, and an upscale gourmet restaurant called Pink Elephant.
500 Palm Ave, Boca Grande, FL 33921, Phone: 941-964-4500