Williamsburg, Virginia
A few years ago, the Williamsburg Inn, built in 1937 by John D. Rockefeller Jr., was showing its age. Then came a renovation. The elegant furnishings and the architecture remained true to Rockefeller's vision. What changed were the rooms–instead of 100, there are now 62. Once small, the rooms are now large with beautiful drapes, fine linens, Regency-style furnishings, and marble bathrooms. The service is still impeccable.
Beyond the inn's patio lies the renowned Golden Horseshoe Golf Club, with two courses and a nine-hole executive course. The Robert Trent Jones Sr.-designed Gold Course, with its tight and often sloping landing areas, is one of the nation's great old layouts. The newer Green Course features links-style fairways, and its layout hugs rugged land–a shot-maker's course.
Unlike other resorts, this isn't isolated: It's just steps from the historical diversions of Colonial Williamsburg and some very nice dining.
Bottom line: An upscale hotel surrounded by golf and history.
Williamsburg Inn, 800-HISTORY; colonialwilliamsburg.com. Summer rates start at $419 a night for two.
