There are some really great hotels just don’t fit in any category. If you're looking for inspiration for your next trip, try picking the lodging before the destination because these properties are exceptional and deserve to be experienced. And without further ado, the best boutique hotels in the country.
Swankiest Southern Hospitality - Hotel Zaza, Houston, TX
In the posh museum district, from a sultry overnight getaway in a Parisian inspired concept suite or high-tech rooms designed for watching the big game, these concept hotel suites in Houston fit each special moment, adding just the right amount of pizzazz to make them forever memorable.
5701 Main Street. Houston, Texas 77005. 713-526-1991. http://www.hotelzazahouston.com/
King of the Strip - Delano, Las Vegas, NV
Formerly known as THEhotel at Mandalay Bay, the Delano was renamed and reconcepted in 2014. Cool like a wet bar, suites here are big enough for 25 of your closest friends. Take a trip to the Bathhouse, the 14,000-square-foot European style spa with slate walls, marble floors, breathtaking water features, steam rooms, and saunas or splurge and stay in the single Presidential Suite, over 4500 square feet of living space, simply referred to as "HP."
3950 Las Vegas Blvd. South Las Vegas, NV 89119. 877.632.7800. http://www.mandalaybay.com
Urban Chic - The James, Chicago, IL
Timeless and modern, The James stands for Luxury Liberated represents an expansive take on luxury - one that frees it from the traditional bonds of formality and embraces a spirit of possibility and imagination. From the in-room recycling program to complimentary bicycle, The James is devoted to preserving our planet’s precious resources.
55 East Ontario. Chicago, IL 60611. 312.337.1000. http://www.jameshotels.com
Slope-side Elegance - Amangani, Jackson Hole, WY
Amangani’s elegant suites are an expression of the surrounding countryside that inspired them: modern comforts, woven cowhide chairs and faux wolf throws are eased into a spacious environment using clean and simple lines creating an atmosphere that reflects the wonders and majestically aged-soul of its “wild west” host. Voted the No. 1 Ski Hotel in North America by Condé Nast Traveler, Amangani’s unique location offers panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks of Grand Teton National Park.
1535 North East Butte Road. Jackson, Wyoming 83001. 307-734-7333. http://www.amanresorts.com/amangani/
South Beach Chic - W Miami, Miami, Florida
Designed by tastemaker Kelly Wearstler, this luxury Miami hotel on Brickell Avenue deftly juxtaposes elite residential necessities with contemporary luxuries and a sleek, iconic design. Having undergone recent renovations, it now features many of W's signature elements including its W Living Room on the hotel’s 15th floor. A cocktail lounge and “WET” pool deck are in the works and will soon be added to the rooftop of the 50-story tower.
485 Brickell Avenue Miami Florida 33131. 305-503-4400. http://www.starwoodhotels.com/whotels/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=4535