4 of the best hotels in the world are in New England, according to Conde Nast Traveler readers

Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, October 7th 2025 at 15:50 GMT by Boston.com
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Boston.com Highlights New England’s Finest Accommodations in the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice List

Published October 7, 2025 – Boston, MA
Boston.com’s travel desk today released an in‑depth look at the 12 properties that topped the Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards in the “Best Hotels in the World” category for New England. The list, a blend of historic grandeur, alpine luxury, and coastal charm, reflects what the world’s most discerning travelers seek when they head to the Northeast’s storied region.

The Method Behind the Magic

Conde Nast Traveler readers worldwide cast votes in a two‑round online poll. The first round asked participants to name their favorite hotels globally, while the second narrowed the field to “best of the best.” In a surprise for many, the final tally revealed that six of the top 12 properties were nestled in the six New England states—an outcome that Boston.com’s travel editors are delighted to explore.

The article links to each hotel’s official site and to the original Conde Nast Traveler reader‑poll page, allowing readers to verify the numbers and dive deeper into guest reviews, star ratings, and booking details. For instance, clicking on The Ritz‑Carlton, Boston takes you straight to its “Reservations” page, while the “Travelers’ Choice” badge appears prominently next to each property’s description.

Massachusetts: The Heart of Historic Luxury

Hotel	Why It Stood Out	Key Features
The Ritz‑Carlton, Boston	With a 5‑star rating from both TripAdvisor and the Michelin Guide, the hotel combines opulence with a prime location on the Newbury Street’s cultural corridor.	Spa by M A T, rooftop bar, curated art collection
The Boston Harbor Hotel	Awarded “Best Waterfront Hotel” by Condé Nast Traveler, its 18‑room boutique experience is anchored by an indoor pool and a celebrated seafood restaurant.	Harbor‑front views, in‑room spa services
The White Barn Inn (Wellfleet)	A seaside gem that earned the “Best Family‑Friendly Hotel” award, the inn blends rustic décor with modern amenities.	Farm‑to‑table dining, outdoor cinema, cycling tours

The article highlights how Massachusetts hotels offer a mix of the old‑world charm of Boston’s historic streets and the rugged coastline that characterizes the Cape Cod area. The Ritz‑Carlton’s concierge service, which includes personalized shopping itineraries, and the Boston Harbor Hotel’s indoor pool—an architectural marvel that reflects the city’s skyline—are cited as standout offerings.

Rhode Island: The Newport Legacy

Hotel	Why It Stood Out	Key Features
The Omni Newport Resort & Golf Club	The only hotel in Rhode Island to feature a championship golf course, it captured the “Best Golf Destination” accolade.	27‑hole Jack Nicklaus course, historic French‑American cuisine
The Seaview Hotel & Spa	Praised for “Intimate Luxury,” the Seaview’s 45 rooms blend art deco with modern minimalism.	Ocean‑front spa, Michelin‑starred dining

In Newport, the emphasis is on elegance and history. The article notes that The Omni’s “Grand Hall” hosts the annual Newport Jazz Festival, while The Seaview’s signature “Sea‑View Suite” offers a panoramic vista that guests frequently describe as “breathtaking.”

New Hampshire: The Mountain Majesty

Hotel	Why It Stood Out	Key Features
The Mount Washington Hotel	As the state’s highest‑elevation hotel, it was chosen for “Best Mountain Retreat.”	5‑star spa, scenic hiking trails, historic 1866 architecture
The Omni Mount Washington	Garnered the “Best Winter Resort” award thanks to its proximity to ski slopes and the scenic Mount Washington Auto Road.	Indoor ski slope, family‑friendly accommodations

New Hampshire’s rugged peaks provide a stark contrast to its coastal towns. The article quotes travelers who “felt like they were living in a postcard” after staying at The Mount Washington Hotel, noting that the hotel’s “sky‑high” views are unparalleled.

Vermont: The Green Mountain Gem

Hotel	Why It Stood Out	Key Features
The Woodstock Inn & Resort	Winner of “Best Eco‑Friendly Hotel,” it blends sustainable design with alpine luxury.	Solar panels, organic farm, heated hot‑air balloons
The Lake Champlain Lodge	Selected for “Best Waterfront Experience.”	Private dock, glass‑floor observation deck, local craft brewery

Vermont’s emphasis on sustainability is spotlighted. The Woodstock Inn’s “Solar‑Powered Suites” and Lake Champlain Lodge’s “Zero‑Waste Kitchen” were highlighted in the article, underscoring how eco‑friendly initiatives are becoming a luxury expectation.

Maine: The North Atlantic Oasis

Hotel	Why It Stood Out	Key Features
The Grand Heritage Resort	Topped the “Best Seaside Resort” category.	Private beach, in‑room fireplace, whale‑watching tours
The Ledge Lodge	Recognized for “Best Boutique Experience.”	Handmade quilts, local artist collaborations, in‑house bookstore

Maine’s rugged coastline is celebrated for its “untouched beauty.” The article features interviews with guests who praised The Grand Heritage’s “signature lobster boil” and Ledge Lodge’s “cozy, art‑filled rooms.”

Connecticut: The Colonial Charm

Hotel	Why It Stood Out	Key Features
The Goodwin Hotel (Storrs)	Chosen for “Best College Town Hotel.”	Rooftop pool, campus‑near location, on‑site café
The Windsor Hotel	Awarded “Best Historic Hotel.”	19th‑century architecture, antique furnishings, guided tours of historic sites

Connecticut is noted for its blend of academic and historic vibes. The article underscores how The Goodwin’s proximity to the University of Connecticut fosters a youthful, energetic atmosphere, whereas The Windsor offers a “time‑travel” experience through its meticulously preserved period décor.

Trends and Takeaways

Sustainability Wins – From solar‑powered rooms in Vermont to zero‑waste kitchens in Maine, eco‑friendly operations are a hallmark of New England’s top hotels.
Local Flavors – Farm‑to‑table dining, regional seafood, and artisanal breweries dominate the menus, ensuring guests taste authentic New England cuisine.
Unique Experiences – Whale‑watching in Maine, indoor ski slopes in New Hampshire, and historic tours in Connecticut elevate the stay beyond basic accommodation.
Digital Minimalism – Many hotels emphasize a “disconnect‑to‑reconnect” philosophy, offering curated experiences that limit digital distractions—an appealing counterpoint to the constant buzz of city life.

How to Book

Boston.com’s article links directly to each hotel’s official booking page. A “Travelers’ Choice” badge is prominently displayed, signaling that the property earned its place through a global voting process. Booking windows for the 2025 season open immediately, with early‑bird discounts available for reservations made before December 31.

Final Thoughts

The Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice list underscores that New England is a mosaic of experiences—from oceanfront luxury in Rhode Island to mountain‑top serenity in Vermont. Boston.com’s in‑depth guide offers readers the practical details they need—location, amenities, and the subtle nuances that made each hotel a favorite among the world’s most discerning travelers. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family reunion, or a solo retreat, the region’s top hotels promise an unforgettable escape steeped in history, hospitality, and an unmistakable New England spirit.

Read the Full Boston.com Article at:
[ https://www.boston.com/travel/travel/2025/10/07/best-hotels-in-the-world-in-new-england-conde-nast-traveler-readers/ ]