We’ve rounded up 22 destination spots for National Plan a Vacation Day – from beachfront Florida retreats and swanky city hotels in New York, Dallas and Vegas, to open-air mountain towns and tropical oasis’ in the Bahamas, Aruba and more.
Pelican Grand Beach Resort – Fort Lauderdale, FL
As one of the only true beachfront, boutique resorts on Fort Lauderdale beach, Pelican Grand Beach Resort couples Old Florida grandeur with seaside elegance to offer a coastal-chic waterfront retreat. From watching stunning sunrises from private balconies and enjoying culinary creations at OCEAN2000 Restaurant & Lounge, to floating down Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river and indulging in personalized pampering at the Scandinavian-inspired PURE Spa, guests are surprised by the unrivaled location of this laid-back luxe retreat set amongst the soothing sights and sounds of the Atlantic Ocean. With the empowerment of the Noble House Hotels & Resorts brand, in the yachting capital of the world, Pelican Grand grants beach lovers a spirited, yet sophisticated getaway in a sun-drenched destination of seaside cafes, picturesque waterways and a leisurely-pace.
TPC Sawgrass – Ponte Vedra Beach, FL
For those looking for the ultimate Florida golf vacation, TPC Sawgrass – home of THE PLAYERS Championship – boasts two immaculately-maintained golf courses, both designed by Pete Dye. Thelegendary Stadium course has captured the imagination of golf fans all over – with its signature island green {the 17th hole} being one of the most widely recognized in the world. With accommodations and ‘Stay & Play’ packages available at the luxurious Sawgrass Marriott® Golf Resort & Spa, TPC Sawgrass is an idyllic escape for those looking to enjoy the fresh air and have some fun. Visit this famed course any time of year or come check out the excitement ahead of the 2022 PLAYERS Championship on March 8-13.
Ocean Key Resort & Spa – Key West, FL
Nestled ideally between Key West Harbor and Mallory Square, where historic Duval Street begins the old town experience, sits Ocean Key Resort & Spa – a luxurious oceanfront property located directly in the heart of Key West. Overlooking the pristine turquoise waters where the Gulf of Mexico mingles with the Atlantic Ocean, Ocean Key invites guests to escape alongside warm tropical breezes, breathtaking views and luxurious relaxation. Boasting the best oceanfront accommodations on the island – featuring 100 deluxe rooms and suites with spacious living and dining areas, oversized Jacuzzis and balcony views – Ocean Key Resort & Spa encourages travelers to recharge and unwind. As the resort also delivers delectable cuisine in the island’s favorite waterfront restaurant, Hot Tin Roof; live, local entertainment on the world famous Sunset Pier; indulgent treatments in SpaTerre and a poolside oasis overlooking the ocean at LIQUID pool bar and lounge, each work hand-in-hand to capture the elegance and sophistication of Key West island living.
The Palm Beaches – Palm Beach County, FL
The Palm Beaches, known as America’s First Resort Destination is made up of a collection of 39 diverse cities and towns, from Boca Raton and Delray to Palm Beach and Jupiter. Spanning across 47 miles of pristine, golden sand beaches, The Palm Beaches is home to more than 17,000 hotel rooms, hundreds of family-friendly attractions, world-class luxury, legendary golf courses, award-winning restaurants, a thriving entertainment scene, and a range of high-end to laid-back antique shopping experiences. This under-the-radar South Florida destination offers cleaner sands, warmer waters and crowd-free beaches with a bonus of not needing a passport or to travel internationally. It’s a transportive but accessible getaway, with three nearby major airports (PBI, FLL, MIA) making it easy to fly or drive.
Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach – Fort Lauderdale, FL
Secluded yet centrally located, Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, is nestled along the largest stretch of private beach in Fort Lauderdale. Guests can take a swim in the resort’s refreshing lagoon pool, hit the Atlantic surf on a jet ski or pamper themselves at the full-service, award-winning spa. When it’s time to refuel after a day of Ft. Lauderdale sun and surf, savor innovative cuisine at one of the hotel’s three restaurants, sip handcrafted cocktails from Loggerhead Sand Bar while relaxing under palm trees or enjoy fresh-squeezed juices and frozen yogurt at HB Fresh. In addition to the onsite amenities, the resort also offers easy access to an array of local attractions perfect for all ages, including a broad and diverse mix of restaurants, bars and cafes, shops, salons and more along the boulevard in Las Olas.
Streamsong Resort — Bowling Green, FL
Nestled amid 16,000 acres of stunning landscapes and seclusion, Streamsong Resort presents an unexpected luxury escape in an inspired setting. Featuring three award-winning golf courses designed by four world-renowned architects, the resort was built as part of a reclamation project on former mining land, creating a unique topography unlike anything else found in the flat Sunshine State. Outdoor pursuits continue with guided bass fishing, a 12-station sporting clay course, archery, nature trails and a lakeside infinity pool. Juxtaposed against the wild fauna are ultra-modern lodge accommodations boasting five restaurants ranging from fine dining to casual, all with exquisite dishes made from the finest locally sourced ingredients. Guests can wind down in the AcquaPietra Spa, a European-style grotto sanctuary offering a tranquil haven to relax and revitalize the body, spirit, and mind.
The Brazilian Court Hotel – Palm Beach, FL
Tucked away on Palm Beach Island, The Brazilian Court Hotel offers a portal to paradise – the perfect escape for your next vacation. Across the threshold of this circa 1926 grand dame, a Mediterranean-inspired paradise awaits, from the yellow-stuccoed façade and dramatic, white-draped entry to the lushly cloaked courtyards and secluded, palm-fringed pool. The 80-room hotel boasts a charming collection of studios and suites and an exclusive set of on-site amenities, including world-renowned Chef Daniel Boulud’s Cafe Boulud and the newly renovated Brazilian Court Salon & Spa – now featuring a private pool-side treatment room and new private men’s lounge. The hotel resides just steps from famed Worth Avenue and the beach, where guests can enjoy a luxurious set up of custom Business & Pleasure beach chairs, umbrellas and pre-stocked beach bags. A new, exclusive fleet of standard and electric Linus bikes provide an ideal mode of transportation and fun way to explore the Island while the 24-hour fitness center and in-room Bala fitness accessories make it easy to stay active. Seasonal, complimentary yoga and pilates classes are also available via the hotel’s partnership with Bala and Talent Hack. And for those looking to travel with their four-legged friends, The Brazilian Court offers pet-friendly accommodations so they can come along too.
Named as one of Southern Living’s top 10 Cities of the South, Tallahassee’s unique charm and style is derived from the undeniably pretty and often unexpected features found in Florida’s Capital. Tallahassee lies in one of the most biologically diverse regions in the U.S. and is home to more than 700 miles of diverse trails — aptly lending the nickname “Trailahassee” – with abundant biking, hiking, paddling, equestrian and running trails. Whether by land or water, breath-taking landscapes, amazing wildlife and recreational activities abound for outdoor enthusiasts, explorers, trailblazers and adventurers of all types. Home to three major colleges and universities, Tallahassee’s vibrant arts, culture and deep-rooted history shine through its murals, museums and performing arts. With its many popular craft breweries and emerging culinary scene, locals and visitors alike are always treated to a taste of Tallahassee.
Wild Dunes Resort – Isle of Palms, SC
Nestled on the northern tip of Isle of Palms, a lush barrier island off the coast of South Carolina, Wild Dunes Resort is located 30 minutes from the charm and grace of historic downtown Charleston. The resort occupies 1,600 acres of oceanfront paradise with a variety of accommodations ranging from the brand-new Sweetgrass Inn, the AAA Four-Diamond rated Boardwalk Inn and the Residences at Sweetgrass to private condos and luxury home vacation rentals. An ideal retreat for families, couples, golfers, tennis lovers and more – Wild Dunes offers a little something for everyone with 36 holes of Tom Fazio-designed championship golf year-round, nationally ranked tennis, bike rentals, spa services, an on-site art gallery, resort pools and plenty of restaurant options.
Hotel Crescent Court – Dallas, TX
Situated in the heart of Uptown Dallas within the flourishing 11-acre Crescent Complex lies Hotel Crescent Court, a Lone Start landmark mirroring its stylish surroundings — steps from the bustling Dallas Arts District, the nation’s largest, which opens up to a world filled with first-class shopping, elite dining and exciting entertainment. Having recently completing a $30 million re-imagination as of Spring 2018, the luxury hotel’s 186 rooms and 40 lavish suites reflect gracious Texas hospitality and is a natural choice for the rich and famous, having hosted everyone from famous politicians such as Sarah Palin to living legends like Britney Spears and Cher. 13 innovative dining outlets satisfy guests’ cuisine cravings, from the world-renowned Nobu featuring delectable Japanese cuisine to The Conservatory, glass-enclosed overlooking courtyard gardens. With an immersive 22,000 sq. ft. spa and fitness center, as well as the members-only The Crescent Club, Hotel Crescent Court echoes the exclusivity of a country club with sophisticated amenities, including a sparkling rooftop swimming pool, 16 event spaces encompassing 23,320 sq. ft. and specially curated programs celebrating the community through unique and indigenous experiences.
The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas – Dallas, TX
Comfortably situated on downtown Dallas’ prominent McKinney Avenue, The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas defines luxury as Texas’ first and Dallas’ only five-star hotel. The property boasts a top-ranked 12,000 square-foot spa and award-winning Fearing’s Restaurant and Rattlesnake Bar – the namesake creation of lauded James Beard winner and cookbook author, chef Dean Fearing, the 218-room hotel is a world-class destination unto itself. The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas is the ultimate retreat in Dallas, as its central downtown allows easy access to all the dining, shopping and urban parks nearby. Hop aboard the free public M-Line trolley in front of the hotel to embark on an adventure through the city or take a stroll through Dallas’ greatest cultural treasure in the downtown Arts District, home to stunning architecture, insightful museums and wondrous sculptures.
South Padre Island is a tropical oasis located off the southern tip of Texas, offering visitors the unsurpassed beauty of the Laguna Madre Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. With 34 miles of beautiful white sand, clear emerald waters and more than 300 days of sunshine, South Padre Island is the ideal year-round destination for families and couples alike. South Padre Island has activities for the whole family to enjoy from sailing, fishing, windsurfing and dolphin watching to horseback riding, golf, shopping and sandcastle building. The destination also offers an abundance of lodging offerings suited to meet any budget, including vibrant vacation rentals and beautiful hotels and resorts.
Nestled deep in the heart of South Texas along the banks of the Rio Grande River, Laredo offers an authentic, Mex-Tex experience for everyone, with a wide variety of activities, cultural tourism and fantastic dining and nightlife, all wrapped up in a laid-back, friendly and affordable destination. The city features six historic districts for visitors to explore and the downtown region is brimming with worthwhile tourist stops, noteworthy museums, historical landmarks, and renowned architecture. Considered part of the “birdiest” corridor in North America, Laredo is one of the best destinations for birding watching and the Max A. Mandel Municipal Golf Course, rated one of the best public courses in Texas, offers the opportunity to golf on the edge of the country. The city hosts a few major events and festivals throughout the year, including the Sister Cities Festival, Laredo Birding Festival and the month-long Washington’s Birthday Celebration. For family fun, check out the Laredo Water Museum, one of only three water museums in Texas and one of a handful in the country, the Lamar Bruni Vergara Planetarium or Laredo’s Safari and Adventure Park, offering exotic animals, zip line rides and ATV rentals. And as far as accommodations go, Laredo offers a wide variety of options to match your pocketbook and travel needs, whether looking for a historic hotel in downtown or a suite just a few minutes from the airport. Whether it’s strolling narrow cobblestone streets little changed for 200 years, shopping eclectic import goods and artisan wares along San Bernardo Avenue, enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine, or birdwatching along the riverbank, a visit to today’s Laredo offers the chance to experience this border heritage firsthand.
The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa – Denver, CO
With 241 richly appointed guest rooms and presidential suites, The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa captivates guests with its historic heritage fused with modern-day amenities. The hotel’s atrium lobby stuns visitors with a stained-glass ceiling soaring eight stories high while live piano or harp music adds to the upscale ambiance each afternoon and evening. There’s also no shortage of dining options with six on-site restaurants and bars running the gamut from casual to formal. Guests can enjoy the longtime tradition of afternoon tea in the lobby, visit the fine dining restaurant Palace Arms or even a cigar bar, Churchill, offering rare cigars and single-malt scotches. Travelers looking for a top-notch weekend destination take note: Denver is easier to access and has more things to do than ever before, and with The Brown’s central location in the heart of downtown, many of the city’s top attractions, shopping, dining and nightlife are within walking distance.
Rich History and Fresh Air Adventures in Park City, UT
Ideally situated just 25 miles from the Salt Lake City International Airport, Park City, Utah welcomes year-round travelers to its bucolic location with deep-rooted history, culture and fresh air adventures. As the town humbly began as a silver mining village only later to become the host of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, guests of all ages can immerse themselves in mining and ski history through attractions like the Park City Museum, Alf Engen Olympic Museum and Utah Olympic Park which is still utilized each week to train Olympic athletes. For the outdoorsman, ample experiences await – featuring hot air ballooning, horseback riding, mountain biking, Blue Ribbon fly-fishing, hiking and golfing, to name only a few. As Park City delivers nearly 150 palate-pleasing restaurants and bars, ample lodging options and sustainable transportation like zero-emission buses and e-bikes, the destination allows visitors to travel responsibly while delivering a one-of-a-kind vacation that will create memories that last a lifetime.
Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino – Las Vegas, NV
For those looking for a taste of Sin City, look no further that Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. Conveniently located just one block away from the world-famous Las Vegas strip, Westgate Las Vegas offers luxury accommodations, a plethora of fine dining options, and legendary live entertainment. With 13 mouth-watering dining options, guests may splurge on a variety of dining choices including the #1-rated Steakhouse in Las Vegas on Trip Advisor, EDGE Steakhouse, and the #1-rated Italian restaurant in Las Vegas, Fresco Italiano. Once the home of Elvis Presley’s longest running residency in Vegas, Westgate now hosts iconic performers such as Barry Manilow. Days at Westgate Las Vegas may be spent lounging in a private cabana poolside with a cocktail in hand or receiving a rejuvenating spa treatment at Serenity Spa before using the on-site monorail to explore all Vegas has to offer.
Trump Hotels is a brand of five-star luxury hotels and resorts with a mission of providing extraordinary customer experiences and luxury accommodations. Their ten exceptionally designed hotels in iconic locations including but not limited to New York, Las Vegas, Chicago, Waikiki and Ireland put guests at the heart of each destination. Each Trump Hotels property boasts unrivaled experiences and identity unique to their destination – but one thing remains the same throughout each location: signature service and the unparalleled comfort and luxury of Trump Hotels’ impeccably designed suites. Offering legendary championship golf breaks, tropical escapes, a cosmopolitan locale, and more, Trump Hotels has the perfect location for your next getaway.
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark – Monticello, New York
This season, bring your family to New York’s Biggest Indoor Waterpark – where it is a toasty 84 degrees all year! Located just 90 minutes from New York City, the Catskills Mountains is met with the most modern, state-of-the-art indoor waterpark with over ten splash-tastic waterslides and a not-so-lazy river. The Kartrite is covered by a transparent roof complete with private cabanas, lush landscaping, and indoor-and-outdoor-pools. The Kartrite’s all-suite accommodations are ready to welcome families of all sizes, offering eight eateries and bars, an arcade with endless indoor fun, six miles of outdoor hiking trails along the Catskills, and free seasonal daily activities. The adventure of the season awaits you at the Kartrite!
Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan – Freeport, Bahamas
Situated on the sparkling coastline of Grand Bahama Island, Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan overlooks a 7.5-acre white-sand beach and sprawling acres of pristine property, mere feet from the calming waters of the Atlantic. The resort is home to an 18-hole championship golf course ‘The Reef Course’, 90,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor spaces fit for any ‘I-do’ or meeting, two serene swimming pools, a selection of delectable bars and restaurants and a rejuvenating spa and fitness center. Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayan is where the island authenticity of the Bahamas meets the ease and affordability of an all-inclusive resort. With more than 196 guest rooms and a variety of all-inclusive dining options and amenities, this destination a picture-perfect getaway for families, couples and groups looking for a truly authentic Caribbean retreat.
Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau – Nassau, Bahamas
Inspired by Jimmy Buffet’s iconic state of mind, Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau captures the essence of Bahamian culture to provide guests with a relaxing, laid-back oasis. Guests can take full advantage of a wide range of activities the resort offers, such as testing your surfing skills at the FlowRider Surf Simulator at Fins Up Water Park or unwind at the St. Somewhere spa for ultimate rest and relaxation The dining options at Margaritaville Nassau are endless with 12 restaurants and lounges ranging from the casual Italian eatery, Frank & Lola’s, to a premier dining experience at JWB Prime Steak & Seafood. For a nightcap, stop at the Graycliff Sky Lounge for craft libations and stunning ocean views .Hugging the shores of Junkanoo Beach, this winter travelers can trade mittens and snowshoes for swimsuits and flip flops while feeling the warmth of white sandy beaches beneath their toes.
Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort – Aruba
Located steps away from Eagle Beach, the No. 7 beach in the world ranked by TripAdvisor, Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort provides a captivating getaway for families, couples or individuals that are in need of an escape. Beyond the award-winning beaches and 82-degree weather that makes the “One Happy Island” an obvious vacation choice, visitors seeking rest and relaxation are delighted to discover Aruba’s luxurious and secluded side. The Dutch colonial architecture of the resort, with its lively color and cozy courtyards, will help you savor the charming Dutch Caribbean atmosphere. The AAA Three Diamond and pet-friendly resort offers six different room types among its 72 studios and suites, currently undergoing a floor to ceiling renovation. For an unparalleled dining experience, indulge in delectable cuisine at Passions on the Beach, set alongside the beautiful Caribbean Sea. From the moment guests arrive, the friendly staff delivers exceptional personalized service to ensure each guest feels right at home. As the resort is located just minutes from historic downtown Oranjestad and a short 15-minute drive from the airport, Amsterdam Manor is the ideal must-visit destination.
An enchanting destination, which has the privilege of being both in Central America and the Caribbean, and the only English-speaking country in the region, is sure to inspire fun and adventure on every corner. This is where exotic wildlife roams through pristine lush tropical forests; cool mountain rivers spill into the turquoise Caribbean Sea; enjoy the magnificent backdrops of secret waterfalls, mystic “under-world” caves, Mayan ruins and dotted islets – Belize has something that complements any taste and is safely welcoming visitors looking for the ultimate getaway with the most ambitious, extravagant escapes – including being home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, 200+ offshore islands, ultra-lux private island buy-outs, remote respites in the Belizean rainforest and more.