How Voting Works
The annual World’s Best Awards survey involves gathering insights from readers about their travel experiences globally. Each year, readers express their opinions on top hotels, resorts, cities, and more. With nearly 165,000 participants in 2023, there was a remarkable increase of approximately 25 percent in voter engagement compared to pre-pandemic levels, resulting in over 685,000 votes across more than 8,500 unique properties.
Hotels were categorized based on their location and amenities as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges. They were rated on the following criteria:
- Rooms/facilities
- Location
- Service
- Food
- Value
Respondents rated each characteristic as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor, with final scores calculated as averages of these evaluations.
What Readers Loved
Each resort featured is deserving of a trip to the western United States, with many being long-time favorites among readers. The Allison Inn & Spa, ranked No. 6 for 2023, is situated in Oregon’s beautiful Willamette Valley and serves as an excellent base for exploring Oregon wine country. Guests appreciate its “elegant yet casual and welcoming” atmosphere, with a majority of their day potentially spent enjoying the resort’s 35 peaceful acres or the exquisite spa services.
Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection, in New Mexico, retains its high approval despite dropping from the No. 1 position in previous years, while continuing to receive glowing feedback. Renowned for its blend of history and modern aesthetics, it provides an idyllic setting for relaxation without distractions, surrounded by breathtaking views and outstanding culinary offerings.
This year’s new standout, Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve, impresses readers with its vastness, rich wildlife, and effective conservation initiatives.
The Winner
Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve: Raton, New Mexico
Vermejo is an expansive outdoor paradise, spanning over 550,000 acres, making it a dream destination for outdoor adventurers. Activities include hiking, archery, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding, among others. With various accommodation options, guests describe the experience as feeling like they have their own private national park, with unique interactions with native wildlife such as bison and elk.
Additionally, Vermejo is dedicated to conservation, boasting a successful effort in documenting over 1,000 native plant species that contribute to reintroducing native wildlife in the area.
The Full List
1. Vermejo, a Ted Turner Reserve: Raton, New Mexico
Reader Score: 95.25
2. Stephanie Inn: Cannon Beach, Oregon
Reader Score: 92.87
3. Sunriver Resort: Sunriver, Oregon
Reader Score: 92.39
4. Salish Lodge & Spa: Snoqualmie, Washington
Reader Score: 92.00
5. Willows Lodge: Woodinville, Washington
Reader Score: 91.75
6. The Allison Inn & Spa: Newberg, Oregon
Reader Score: 91.53
7. Shore Lodge: McCall, Idaho
Reader Score: 91.34
8. Bishop’s Lodge, Auberge Resorts Collection: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Reader Score: 90.17
9. Sun Valley Resort: Sun Valley, Idaho
Reader Score: 89.04
10. Edgewood Tahoe Resort: Stateline, Nevada
Reader Score: 88.47
11. Brasada Ranch: Bend, Oregon
Reader Score: 88.35
12. (tie) Cedarbrook Lodge: SeaTac, Washington
Reader Score: 88.00
12. (tie) Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino: Incline Village, Nevada
Reader Score: 88.00
13. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort: Bandon, Oregon
Reader Score: 87.78
14. Suncadia Resort, Destination by Hyatt: Cle Elum, Washington
Reader Score: 87.76