Top 15 City Hotels Across the Continental US – 2025 Favorites

The frenetic energy of city life demands a careful choice of hotel. A great location is a must—the farther you are from the action, the more time you’ll waste traveling. Conversely, if a hotel is too touristy, you might miss the chance to experience local life. Ideally, you want an in-the-know concierge, a room that feels like an oasis, and most importantly, a real sense of place. Fortunately, discerning travelers have shared their views, leading to this selection of 15 exceptional hotels. Every year for our World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on travel experiences around the globe, sharing their opinions on the finest hotels, resorts, and more. Hotels are rated based on facilities, location, service, food, and overall value, with properties classified as City or Resort according to their amenities.

15. Mandarin Oriental, Las Vegas

Score: 94.35

14. The Peninsula, Chicago

Score: 94.44

13. Old 77 Hotel & Chandlery, New Orleans

Score: 94.50

12. Zero George, Charleston, South Carolina

Score: 94.52

11. Hotel Elysee, New York City

Score: 94.67

10. Roxy Hotel, New York City

Score: 94.77

9. The Vendue, Charleston, South Carolina

Score: 94.88

8. 21c Museum Hotel, Bentonville, Arkansas

Score: 94.95

7. Urban Cowboy, Nashville, Tennessee

Score: 95.11

6. Archer, New York City

Scores: 95.13

5. Thompson, Seattle

Score: 95.15

4. The Chatwal, New York City

Score: 95.57

3. 21c Museum Hotel, Oklahoma City

Score: 95.77

2. Alfond Inn, Orlando Area, Florida

Score: 96.00

1. The Surrey, New York City

Score: 96.09

At this Upper East Side retreat, there’s an impressive focus on detail, with luxurious linens and high-quality amenities. The result is a hotel that provides a peaceful escape from the vibrant city life while maintaining a prime location. Travelers appreciate the “fabulous and attentive staff” and describe the “luxuriously appointed” rooms as embodying “urban elegance.” Additionally, a stellar art collection featuring works by renowned artists sets the stage for a refined experience, complemented by the nearby Met Breuer and the intimate Cornelia Spa that ensures a rejuvenating experience after enjoying the city’s nightlife.