The Best Under-the-Radar Retreats Just Hours from Major U.S. Cities

As summer 2025 approaches, travelers are booking getaways in record numbers, with the U.S. Travel Association forecasting a 12 percent surge in domestic leisure trips and AAA reporting that 85 percent of Americans plan to travel—the highest level in over a decade. Whether it’s FOMO or JOMO, demand continues to soar for relaxation and immersive escapes, and luxury resorts are answering the call with curated experiences that blend serenity and adventure. From the rolling vineyards of the Hudson Valley, the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys, or the soft pink sands of the Bahamas, these four options offer idyllic retreats—all within easy reach of major hubs.

Here’s where to unwind, indulge, and recharge this season.

The Inn at Bellefield

Burrowed into the heart of Hyde Park, NY, The Inn at Bellefield, part of the Marriott family of brands, is a brand-new luxurious retreat blending history, sustainability, and modern elegance. Each of its 137 suites brings sweeping views of the Hudson Valley. Across from the Culinary Institute of America, the hotel is a haven for food lovers and includes a full kitchen in each suite.

Photo: Courtesy of Inn at Bellefield Hyde Park

The Storyteller farm-to-table lounge presents locally-sourced cuisine, followed by cool, cozy evenings around the fire pit, under the stars. Days are spent immersed in the rich history and vibrant culture of the region, exploring such destinations as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library & Museum, the elegant Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site, the magnificent Walkway Over the Hudson, and such venerable institutions as Vassar College and the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Marist University. Family fun happens at Legoland New York, or shopping at Woodbury Common Premium Outlets.

Photo: Courtesy of Inn at Bellefield Hyde Park

For a special treat, try a tasting at Brotherhood Winery, America’s oldest winery. For meetings, events, and weddings, find solutions here, with more than 3,000 sq. ft of all-new, state-of-the-art gathering space available in quaint countryside surroundings. Whatever the reason or the season, serenity, splendor, and stories await—90 minutes from New York City.

Key Largo, Playa Largo Resort & Spa

Have a Bogart & Bacall moment on the 14.5-acre spread of pristine beachfront in Key Largo at the Playa Largo Resort & Spa, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection. Known as the “Pearl of the Florida Keys,” Key Largo remains legendary for those looking for a complete getaway just a 90-minute scenic drive from MIA.

Photo: Courtesy of Playa Largo Resort & Spa

At the Playa Largo Resort & Spa, you will find 176 rooms, suites, and private villas, each opening to a balcony with sweeping views of the waters, beach, and more. A stay at Playa Largo will be all the sweeter with a suite upgrade or even a seismic elevation to your own beach villa or a spacious three-bedroom waterfront beach house with a fully equipped kitchen, an inviting pool, gardens, and private beachfront access.

Photo: Courtesy of Playa Largo Resort & Spa

Guests can float in water cabanas or stay poolside in amenity-stocked cabanas attended by dedicated wait staff. Revive, rejuvenate, and treasure the tranquility at the intimate Ocean Spa. Relish relaxed tropical repasts at La Marea, Las Olas, and Sand Bar. Dinner at Sol by the Sea is a must for savoring fresh seafood while toes play in the sand. For adventure-minded guests, the resort’s private marina offers kayaking, sunset sails, and eco-tours to submerged surprises.

French Leave Resort

For those seeking some coveted Caribbean calm, try taking a “French leave” (leaving without permission) at French Leave Resort, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera. Fly from Miami to nearby Governor’s Harbour (GHB) on new flights offered by American Airlines.

Photo: Courtesy of French Leave Resort

The resort blankets 270 acres of prime Bahamian shoreline with authentic beachfront cottages that each offer access to a private world of ocean paradise. Stay in one of 20 quaint, stand-alone colonial cottages, each offering wide ocean views, plush king beds, and spacious verandas. Enjoy full or efficient kitchens, illy coffee-makers, delicious snack provisions, and other thoughtful touches. Pull-out sofas and Cable TV provide added comfort.

Photo: Courtesy of French Leave Resort

Choose the Green Castle villa, where all bedrooms face aptly named Cupid’s Cay. Dine at 1648 Bar & Grille for Bahamian-inspired cuisine (try the piña colada pancakes with guava syrup at breakfast!) or take the ten-minute walk into town for further exploration. Kayak, paddleboard, or snorkel clear waters and colorful reefs. All is done for you at French Leave Resort, which has private island-style comforts and is calm under a dazzling night sky. Permissions granted.

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club

In the heart of Marathon, Florida, the recently transformed Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, a new addition to Hilton’s Curio Collection, is the ultimate escape for travelers seeking easy access and easy times. Fresh off a $14 million renovation, the resort brings a blend of luxury and modern comforts to the Middle Keys in 125 spacious guest rooms and suites, all with bayside views, plush bedding, and island-style decor.

Photo: Courtesy of Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club

Consider a stay in a two-bedroom villa or in the recently restored and deeply historic Parrish House, one of Marathon’s oldest buildings that is now part of the Hilton family. Wander the 500 sandy acres of this waterfront resort and meander amid four outdoor pools and tropical gardens while ambling onward to explore a butterfly sanctuary, a 1950s-era lighthouse, and a waterfront marina that manages snorkeling and fishing adventures as well as sunset cruising.

Start it all out with a morning yoga session on the beach or try out the newly added spa that features curated, marine-themed treatments. For local fare, the property features three distinct dining venues, each offering a unique culinary experience.

Photo: Courtesy of Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club

For breakfast, El Farito serves handcrafted coffee, fresh pastries, and breakfast favorites, or make it to the Lighthouse Kitchen and Bar for an all-day seafood-focused menu with exquisite craft cocktails in a picturesque setting overlooking the destination’s lighthouse. Relax poolside at the Blue Waters Bar & Grill for laid-back libations by the infinity pool, with such must-try faves as Key West pink shrimp and flavorful fish tacos.

Full spring and summer escapes await, whether by mountain, sea, or sand. Use points or accrue points, but know a quick dip into relaxation and rejuvenation is within reach.