When you think “family-friendly hotel,” phrases like “waterslides,” “theme-park adjacent,” and “all-inclusive,” might come to mind—and make you recoil. Well, we’re here to tell you that chic boutique hotels can also be family-friendly—really! From mountain hideaways to luxe city addresses to beachfront oases, these independent hotels across the U.S. will keep both style-conscious adults and their fun-loving kids happy. Read on to see our fave boutique hotels from families.
The Little Nell (Aspen, Colorado)
Key Points: • Website • 5 Stars • Rooms: 92 • Airport: Aspen-Pitkin County Airport | Amenities: • Outdoor swimming pool • Fitness center • Spa • 3 Bars & Restaurants |
An iconic mountain retreat at the base of Aspen Mountain, the Little Nell is the only five-star ski-in/ski-out hotel in the city. It has a ski concierge, an award-winning restaurant, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub to satisfy guests of all ages. And when mom and dad can escape (a babysitting service is available), there’s a plush spa and secret wine cellar to explore. The amenity-filled rooms (including free minibar snacks) are large enough for families, and gear like cribs, strollers, and infant bathtubs are available. Request cute extras like child-size robes and slippers, stuffed animals, and teepees.
The Roundtree (Amagansett, New York)
Key Points: • Website • 4 Stars • Rooms: 14 • Airport: Long Island MacArthur Airport | Amenities: • Free WiFi • Free breakfast • Pet-friendly • Free parking |
This petite Hamptons hotel has accommodation options including rooms, suites, and five cottages ranging from studio to three-bedrooms, making it ideal for families. The modern and minimalist designed cottages feature Frette linens, Matouk towels, gas fireplaces, and a fridge stocked with complimentary drinks and snacks. Guests can borrow bikes; beach umbrellas, chairs, coolers, and even toys; and every day ends with s’mores and popcorn on the lawn. Our favorite detail: the hotel will help kids set up a lemonade stand, with all proceeds donated to your charity of choice.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection (Waimea, Hawai’i)
Key Points: • Website • 5 Stars • Rooms: 333 • Airport: Kona International Airport | Amenities: • Outdoor swimming pools • Private beach area • Spa • 3 Bars & Restaurants |
Finding a Hawai’i hotel that’s both kid-friendly and not a massive resort with chaotic pools and noisy restaurants can be a challenge—most of the classy ones are adults only. This Big Island oasis manages to be stylish and still boasts plenty of activities for the whole family. Take ukulele lessons with Uncle Danny, go canoeing or paddleboarding, learn to surf, and enjoy the slide-free pool. But the best part? A free daily kids club focused on Hawaiian culture and nature.
Blackberry Farm (Walland, Tennessee)
Key Points: • Website • 5 Stars • Rooms: 51 • Airport: McGhee Tyson Airport | Amenities: • Outdoor swimming pool • Fitness center • Spa • 1 Bar & Restaurant |
Nestled in the Great Smoky Mountain foothills, this hotel basically invented farmhouse chic. In addition to the stylish cottages roomy enough for families (with amenities like complimentary snacks and expansive porches) are activities galore to entertain all ages. There are farm tours and cooking classes; horseback riding and cycling; boating and waterskiing; fly fishing and hiking; and eight different adventure series specifically tailored for parents and their kids to tackle. Each night, a meal at one of the award-winning farm-to-table restaurants is a rewarding experience as families come together to recap the day’s adventures.
The Newbury (Boston, Massachusetts)
Key Points: • Website • 5 Stars • Rooms: 286 • Airport: Boston Logan International Airport | Amenities: • Free WiFi • Fitness center • 2 Bars & Restaurants |
Located right on the Boston Commons, this luxurious hotel has one of the world’s best backyards at its doorstep, with the famous duckling statues a few feet away. The residential-style rooms and suites (connecting rooms available) make families feel at home, plus there’s a kid’s menu, child-size bath robes, cribs & diaper genies upon request. Snuggle by the fireplace at the street-level library lounge, or snag a table at the white-hot Contessa on the rooftop for epic views and stellar Italian food. Bookable family experiences include a private tour of the Boston Public Garden, an oyster shucking class, and a babka and challah baking class with local bakery Bakey.
The Restoration (Asheville, North Carolina)
Key Points: • Website • 5 Stars • Rooms: 60 • Airport: Asheville Regional Airport | Amenities: • Free WiFi • Fitness center • Free parking • 1 Bar & Restaurant |
This recently opened hotel is the second location of the Restoration brand, following the success of its Charleston outpost. In Asheville, the all-suite hotel has spacious rooms with separate seating areas and stylish touches like exposed brick and local art. Expect nightly in-room cookies, plush robes, and smart TVs. And, there are four on-site dining outlets to choose from, including one with a bowling alley to keep kids and grownups smiling. Best of all, you’re on the doorstep of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, which any nature-loving family will enjoy.
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