This year’s World’s Best Awards survey closed on Mar. 2, just before widespread stay-at-home orders were implemented as a result of COVID-19. The results reflect our readers’ experiences before the pandemic, but we hope that this year’s honorees will inspire your trips to come—whenever they may be.
An abundance of lakes, forests, and protected land makes the Midwest a fertile ground for American resorts. Leading the way was Wisconsin, which took four of the top 10 spots, thanks to properties including Grand Geneva Resort & Spa (No. 10), a 1,300-acre lakeside escape, and the grand Osthoff Resort (No. 7), reminiscent of an early-20th-century lodge, in the village of Elkhart Lake.
Every year for the World’s Best Awards survey, readers weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—sharing opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Hotels are rated on their facilities, location, service, food, and overall value. Properties are classified as city or resort based on their locations and amenities.
In Ridgedale, Missouri, near the Ozark National Forest, Big Cedar Lodge appeals to a wide range of visitors. “You can be as social or reclusive as you wish,” explained one guest. “Sometimes we just enjoy the cabin and the fireplace and movies. Other times, we’ll go with the family, and it’s very social. It’s always enjoyable for all.”
On Michigan’s Mackinac Island, a visit to Hotel Iroquois is a summer tradition for many because of its “perfect location on the water” in Lake Huron. The hotel’s 45 guest rooms nod to the surrounding gardens with floral wallpaper and curtains featuring plantation shutters that open to the glorious lake views. The restaurant, Carriage House, specializes in local seafood from the Great Lakes and is a major draw. “This is the gem of Mackinac Island,” said a longtime fan.
For the second year in a row, Illinois’ Deer Path Inn takes the top spot. Continue on for the full list of best hotels in the Midwest.
1. The Deer Path Inn, Lake Forest, Illinois
Score: 97.64
More information: thedeerpathinn.com
Forty minutes north of Chicago in the upscale suburb of Lake Forest, the Deer Path Inn has not only won this list, but it is also ranked as the No. 2 resort in the United States. The property dates back to 1860, channeling an English country tavern of centuries past, featuring a Tudor façade, rich wood paneling, and stag motifs. The afternoon tea service is another transportive British experience at the inn. “I can’t say enough about this gem of a hotel,” remarked one reader. “The rooms are beautifully and comfortably decorated, the restaurants are excellent, and the public areas exude charm, along with personalized, friendly, and efficient service.”
2. Grand Hotel, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Score: 92.90
More information: grandhotel.com
3. Hotel Iroquois, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Score: 89.17
More information: iroquoishotel.com
4. American Club at Destination Kohler, Kohler, Wisconsin
Score: 88.60
More information: americanclubresort.com
5. Big Cedar Lodge, Ridgedale, Missouri
Score: 87.44
More information: bigcedar.com
6. Grand View Lodge, Nisswa, Minnesota
Score: 86.46
More information: grandviewlodge.com
7. The Osthoff Resort, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Score: 83.50
More information: osthoff.com
8. Sundara Inn & Spa, Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Score: 82.71
More information: sundaraspa.com
9. Mission Point, Mackinac Island, Michigan
Score: 82.36
More information: missionpoint.com
10. Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Score: 81.00
More information: grandgeneva.com