The Top 10 Resort Hotels in the Northeast in 2019

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Published on July 10, 2019

Photo: Jumping Rocks/Courtesy of Rabbit Hill Inn

The Northeastern United States is famous for its geographical diversity, and chances are high that somewhere in New England and New York you’ll find the setting for the kind of vacation you most long for. If you’re a beachcomber or a sunbather, there are hundreds of miles of coastline, not to mention lakes and rivers galore. If you fancy a drive along rolling hills or a hike through the forest, look no further.

Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels were rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties were classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.

Related: The World's Best Awards 2019

Perhaps no single place captures so many of the pleasures of the region as Nantucket, the idyllic island south of Cape Cod. Two properties on this year’s list can be found in the main harbor, mere steps apart. The weathered-shingle architecture of White Elephant is pure Nantucket — the building has been around since the 1920s. There are no resort fees, and the range of complimentary grace notes includes afternoon port and cheese and a departing gift. “We lived on Nantucket, so when we decided to sell our second home, the White Elephant became our place to stay on the island,” wrote one reader. “It has a great staff, and everything you could want.” With its airy décor, family-friendly pool scene, and impeccable service, the Nantucket Hotel and Resort is equally beloved. As one reader recalls, “One of my favorite moments while staying here was sitting on a porch listening to a singer play guitar. There was a bit of a chill and drizzle in the air, and the staff came out with warm blankets for us to snuggle under. An absolutely perfect moment.”

Readers continue to rave about Twin Farms, an inn in the heart of Vermont. The all-inclusive couples retreat is a perennial favorite. “Why did we not get to Twin Farms sooner?” asks a reader, who praises the list of incredible wines and hard-to-find beers. “Every meal is customized just for you, the service is exceptional, and the grounds and cottages are impeccable.” Lake Placid Lodge in upstate New York was singled out as an ideal honeymoon spot, and the most romantic hotel in the state. “This place sets the highest standards for a dream vacation in a beautiful location.”

Click through to find out which property captured the top spot for 2019.

10. Lake Placid Lodge, Lake Placid, New York

Score: 91.08

More information: lakeplacidlodge.com

9. Winvian Farm, Morris, Connecticut

Score: 91.26

More information: winvian.com

8. Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, Harwich, Massachusetts

Score: 91.45

More information: wequassett.com

7. The Nantucket Hotel and Resort, Nantucket, Massachusetts

Score: 92.10

More information: thenantuckethotel.com

Here's How to Book The Safest Room in a Hotel

6. Ocean House, Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Score: 92.84

More information: oceanhouseri.com

5. Twin Farms, Barnard, Vermont

Score: 92.89

More information: twinfarms.com

4. White Elephant, Nantucket, Massachusetts

Score: 93.10

More information: whiteelephanthotel.com

3. Weekapaug Inn, Westerly, Rhode Island

Score: 93.53

More information: weekapauginn.com

2. Inns of Aurora, Aurora, New York

Score: 94.86

More information: innsofaurora.com

1. Rabbit Hill Inn, Lower Waterford, Vermont

Score: 96.89

More information: rabbithillinn.com

Rabbit Hill Inn has been hovering near the top of our World’s Best list for the region for the past two years, but this year it rises to the premier slot. On the edge of Vermont’s scenic Northeast Kingdom, and not far from the Canadian border, the property is both homey and luxe, with a sense of refinement that gets to the heart of the New England experience. “I’ve been visiting this inn for 28 years and the consistency is absolutely amazing,” writes one reader. Other voters single out the gracious décor and the attention to detail on the part of the owners, Brian and Leslie, who keep in mind the culinary preferences and favorite drinks of repeat visitors. One reader sums it up: “This place is like coming home.”

Want to experience one of the World’s Best resorts for yourself? This October, join Travel + Leisure editor in chief Jacqueline Gifford and Food & Wine’s executive wine editor Ray Isle for an intimate trip to California’s Wine Country during fall harvest season. With the iconic Meadowood Napa Valley as your home base, you’ll be treated to exclusive tastings at some of the region’s best wineries, including a handful that are typically closed to the public. Book your trip now before spots disappear.

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards for 2019.