The Rankings Are in: 10 U.S. Hotels That Get Everything Right

By Erin K. Shields

Selecting the perfect hotel can be difficult. Which is more important: location or amenities? Are you more concerned about getting a good night's rest or making sure the property offers plenty of perks like a pool, gym, and business center? What if you're looking for a combination of all of the above? Determining a hotel's quality and assessing all of its offerings can prove challenging from afar. That's where U.S. News & World Report's annual Best Hotels in the USA rankings come in.

The travel editors at U.S. News researched and analyzed an array of resources — from guest reviews and expert recommendations to travel websites and industry award lists — to solidify an extensive list of the best places to stay in the United States. Our editors used a comprehensive methodology to evaluate more than 1,700 luxury hotels across the U.S., taking into account the hotel's class rating, the number and prominence of industry awards it received, and traveler reviews. From historical hotels set in the heart of cities like Washington, D.C., and Chicago to charming resorts found in secluded areas in the South and across the islands of Hawaii, this group of properties highlights the numerous and diverse lodging choices across America.

Quite a few newcomers cracked the top 10 list this year, thanks in part to their improved ratings among travelers and additional industry accolades. The 10 top hotels rise above the rest of their hospitality peers because they offer the right mix of what most travelers are looking for in a hotel — picturesque locations, comfortable accommodations, luxe in-room amenities, and superb service.

More from U.S. News:

50 Best Hotels in the USA 2015
Top Hotel Trends to Watch in 2015
Best Hotels by Brand