The various moving parts of planning a trip (including the supposedly stress-free process involved in selecting one of the best honeymoon destinations in the US) have a way of sucking the fun out of even the best family vacations in America before they’ve begun. Skip the hassle of piecing together a getaway on your own and opt for one of the best all-inclusive resorts in the USA, where the lodging, food and fun things to do are all taken care of. There’s a wide range of options when it comes to all-inclusives, from luxury establishments boasting the most over-the-top hotel perks to cute cottages and woodsy retreats. The best part? You won’t need to pull your wallet out once.
1. The Ranch at Rock Creek, Philipsburg, MT
Originally a working ranch that was homesteaded in the early 1900s, this stunning resort is situated between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks in the Montana wilderness. Settle into luxury accommodations like cozy suites or a converted historic barn, or even give “glamping” a try in canvas cabins under the stars. During the day, embrace the true spirit of cowboy country and explore 6,600 acres of land through complimentary guided activities like biking, hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling and fly fishing; then unwind at the spa and roast s’mores at a crackling outdoor bonfire.
2. Blackberry Farm, Walland, TN
Some resorts can feel almost artificial in their perfection, but there’s no smoke and mirrors involved at this country inn—everything is truly as authentic as it appears. The idyllic 4,200-acre estate at the foot of the Great Smoky Mountains offers sophisticated guest suites, two-room cottages and five-bedroom houses. The Barn, a two-time James Beard Award-winning restaurant, serves can’t-miss meals featuring ingredients which, more often than not, are produced on the working farm. Cooking and farming workshops, plus a slew of outdoor activities from horseback riding to canoeing to archery are offered daily, even further shifting your idea of what “farm life” can be.
3. Twin Farms, Barnard, VT
Plan an escape to this transformed 1795 farmhouse to bask in the quiet of the Vermont countryside. Year-round, 300 acres of forest, meadows and ponds present incredible opportunities for relaxation and adventure—take in the brilliant colors of peak foliage while canoeing on Copper Pond in autumn, make turns on six private ski trails in winter, play croquet and tennis in spring and bike 10 miles to nearby Woodstock in the mild spring temperatures. Indulge in a massage or facial at the Bridge House Spa and make sure to post up by the fireplace or on your cottage’s screened porch and have a cocktail at the fully stocked onsite pub as the sun sets.
4. Vista Verde Guest Ranch, Clark, CO
Craving a real Western adventure with all the comforts of a five-star resort? This secluded Steamboat Springs operation provides the opportunity to really experience the natural beauty of National Forest land and offers access to virtually any activity under the sun. From summer into fall, embrace the dude ranch lifestyle with horseback riding lessons and trail rides on varied terrain then, come winter, trot around the heated indoor riding arena. Fly fishing, mountain biking, kayaking, snowshoeing and sleigh rides are just a few ways to spend your time before venturing inside for cooking classes, wine tastings, massages and cocktails by a roaring fire.
5. Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, NY
The Hudson Valley becomes your playground during a stay at this distinguished vacation spot, nestled in the gorgeous Catskill Mountains. Rooms and suites are decked out in charming Victorian décor while private cottages two miles from the resort offer a rustic, intimate stay. Check out the Shawangunk Mountain range via rock climbing routes and 85 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, plus, take advantage of varied onsite activities, from swimming, boating and fishing on Lake Mohonk to golfing, ice skating and guided tours of the vivid garden and greenhouse—most offerings are open to families with children in tow!
6. Canyon Ranch Health Resort, Lenox, MA
Once you step foot inside this amenity-rich resort and spa in the Berkshires, you might not feel the need to venture out during your entire stay. Flanked by gardens, lawns and a serene reflecting pool, the historic marble and brick Bellefontaine Mansion is the crown jewel of the 120-acre property. Use glass-enclosed walkways to travel between the mansion, the inn and the 100,000-square-foot spa complex where tennis courts, fitness studios, saunas, steam rooms and a 50-foot swimming pool are at your disposal year-round. With a salon, meditation room, massage therapists, cooking instructors and certified physicians on-hand at the Health & Healing Center, wellness and relaxation are inevitable.
7. The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island, Saint Simons Island, GA
If you’re looking to slow down and savor every moment of your vacation, this tranquil island off the Georgia coast is just the place. Hop aboard the resort’s private boat to the island, and then settle into a charming guest room or homey cottage tucked alongside the marshlands. Daily excursions led by island naturalists let you get acquainted with the area’s unique plants and wildlife (bald eagles, dolphins and gators among them). You might head out on foot or by kayak, bike or skiff as you try and spot over 330 species of birds or reel in a fish for dinner. Wine, hors d’oeuvres and some quality time in a rocking chair on your screen porch or wrap-around deck is the ideal way to end each day.
8. Red Mountain Resort, Ivans, UT
If you’re seeking real rejuvenation from your next vacation, this health-focused resort will refresh you physically and mentally. The comfortable villas blend in with the surrounding red rock bluffs, yet boast high-end amenities including a spacious outdoor pool and the impressive Sagestone Spa & Salon. The Essential Retreat offers unlimited fitness classes, from guided morning hikes to studio yoga to kayaking and paddle boarding. In keeping with the health-conscious theme, you can supplement excursions to Zion or Bryce Canyon National Park with nutritious daily meals, meditation and mindfulness seminars and cooking demos at the resort.
9. Travaasa Hana, Maui, HI
It’s tough to beat the romantic setting of this Hawaiian resort, set in Maui’s emerald, rolling fields above Hana Bay. The remote location makes for a peaceful escape, whether you choose to stay in a cottage or suite. Embrace traditions of the islands through lei making, ukulele lessons, and bamboo pole or throw net fishing. Active travelers have their pick of yoga, pilates and tennis, plus plenty of opportunity to explore the pristine waters via stand-up paddling, snorkeling and canoeing. The Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o Gulch are worth an offsite field trip, but beach access and an extensive menu of spa services like Hawaiian Lomilomi massages make it difficult to break away.
10. Miraval Arizon Resort & Spa, Tucson, AZ
The stark and stunning desert landscape seems to transition seamlessly into this tranquil resort, where cacti and waterfalls jive with the modern Southwestern decor. Settle into luxurious villas with the Santa Catalina mountains as their backdrop to unplug and reconnect with your surroundings through health, fitness and spiritual instruction. Fill your daily agenda with complimentary yoga, hiking, horseback riding, spa treatments, meditation and various wellness lectures. Hands-on culinary workshops provide a crash course in the resort’s nutritious fare—themes include smoothies, sauces, surprise-basket cooking, cocktails and biodynamic wines.
11. Skytop Lodge, Skytop, PA
You’d never expect to find this sprawling, 5,500-acre resort nestled in the woodsy Poconos, but the sophisticated resort draws couples and families year-round for fun getaways amidst the mountain scenery. The Colonial Dutch–style main lodge boasts 125 rooms and suites for those who prefer to be centrally located, while The Inn and cottages appeal to groups who prefer privacy—or just proximity to the award-winning golf course. As far as daily entertainment goes, this place is like a high-end summer camp on steroids—get some friendly competition going within the family on the 33-foot rock climbing wall, paintball course or Treetop zip line. Make a splash at the indoor and outdoor pools or take a dip in the swimming lake. Archery, boating, ice-skating and ice fishing can all be enjoyed nearby.
12. Club Med Sandpiper Bay, Port St. Lucie, FL
The behemoth all-inclusive brand, Club Med, is best known for its ultra-exotic locations around the world, but travelers can take advantage of the deal stateside at its Sandpiper Bay resort. Situated along the St Lucie River just two hours north of Miami, the property wraps up Florida scenery, sandy beaches, top-notch sports facilities and a luxurious spa into one accessible package. The onsite flying trapeze and circus school, tennis academy and instruction in beach volleyball, basketball and sailing are more than enough to keep active families occupied while couples enjoy leisure time on the water, spa sessions or take a swing at the resort’s 18-hole golf course.
13. The Ranch at Live Oak Malibu, Malibu, CA
This Malibu resort is a refreshing change of pace for those who aren’t quite satisfied with sipping piña coladas by the pool. With the beautiful Southern California property as your home base, you’ll jumpstart your vacation time with a week of consistent exercise, including group hikes, yoga and sessions focusing on your core, abs and weights. Yes, it’s basically boot camp, but stellar views of the Santa Monica mountains, private afternoon massages and vegetarian meals made with ingredients from the onsite organic farm will leave you feeling pampered and energized each day.
14. Travaasa Austin, Austin, TX
The eclectic, artsy vibe of downtown Austin comes through in the country-chic décor at this upscale resort. Perched above the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, the tricked-out hotel boasts a luxury spa, organic farm and an infinity-edge pool overlooking Texas Hill Country. Choose from a variety of fitness classes, from typical yoga and Pilates to adventurous challenges like a mechanical bull–riding workout class. Outdoor offerings include dirt biking and circuit training the Prickly Pear ropes course. Locally grown, organic food at The Preserve Kitchen + Bar onsite, plus bioenergetic toiletries lessen your footprint and let you relax even more during your stay in peaceful canyon- and nature-view rooms.
15. Mount Bohemia Adventure Resort, Mohawk, MI
Adventurous travelers who’d rather forgo ritzy resorts in favor of a cozy, backwoods respite flock to this nearly untouched area of the Midwest. Summertime at this 1,100-acre wilderness resort in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula means hiking, biking, fishing, paddleboarding and kayaking on gorgeous Lac Labelle. When the snow flies (there will be lots of it!), expert skiers hit the cross-country trails and backcountry terrain at Mount Bohemia. Lakeside red cedar log cabins sit about half a mile from the mountain (shuttles get you there with your gear) while slope-side yurts side are ski-in, ski-out. Your surroundings may feel rustic, but with lodging, meals and activities included with completely uninhibited views of the stars, it’s hardly a sacrifice.