City of Brotherly Love
Where: Loews Philadelphia Hotel, 1200 Market St., Philadelphia; 215-627-1200.
What’s special: Located in the heart of Center City, the hotel has a fitness center, a spa and salon, the Bank & Bourbon restaurant, the Lobby Lounge (with drinks and small bites), and POD Market (selling pastries, salads, and sandwiches). While in town, guests can explore the Liberty Bell Center, the Philadelphia Museum of Art with the “Rocky Steps,” the Barnes Foundation, and Independence Hall.
The deal: The “Wild Escape” package includes four tickets to the Philadelphia Zoo (two adult and two child tickets), two cocktails and two mocktails at Bank & Bourbon, and valet parking for one vehicle. The package, which starts at $289 a night, is part of the hotel’s “Summerfest by Loews Hotel” programming. Washingtonian readers also get a room upgrade—just mention Washingtonian at check-in.
When: Valid for stays through Labor Day.
The Jersey Shore
Where: Wave Resort, Long Branch, NJ; 732-612-9283 (WAVE).
What’s special: Located in the heart of Long Branch Beach along the boardwalk, this hotel is steps away from Pier Village shops, restaurants, local events, and, of course, the beach. The resort has multiple restaurants, a second-floor pool, a fitness center, and a spa. Rooms are spacious with large windows, luxury bedding and robes, and balconies to enjoy the ocean view. It’s also pet-friendly.
The deal: The “Vacation from Inflation” exclusive Washingtonian offer includes 8 percent off the best available rate and complimentary valet parking. Room rates start at $199 a night (in the off-season) before the discount. To book, click here.
When: Book by August 31 for stays through the end of 2023.
A New Hotel in Charlottesville
Where: The Forum Hotel, Charlottesville; 434-365-2600.
What’s special: Opened in April, this stately Kimpton hotel, with its regal white columns, red-brick facade, and stone accents, follows the architectural style of Thomas Jefferson and fits in perfectly with its location on the University of Virginia’s North Grounds, next to the UVA Darden School of Business. Once inside, the vibe is totally contemporary. And unlike many new hotels where the lobby is only a front desk, its lobby is expansive, with floor-to-ceiling windows, stylish gathering spaces including a bar, and a variety of dining options. The spacious guest rooms have a sleek modern feel, done up in leather, wood, and marble. Out back is an expansive arboretum with botanical gardens, and access to the 20-mile-long Rivanna Trail, which loops the city. As is traditional for Kimpton hotels, there’s complimentary tea and coffee in the morning, a social hour with wine each evening, free bikes to use, and it’s pet-friendly. There is also a yoga mat in every room, a fitness center, and, upon request, you can get a Mini Me Fridge for storing breast milk. The hotel is near downtown Charlottesville with its restaurants, shops, and pedestrian walk.
The deal: The “Washingtonian Exclusive” includes breakfast for two and complimentary valet parking. Room rates start at $179 a night. To book, click here.
When: Valid for stays through July 31, 2024.
In the Mountains of Aspen
Where: Aspen Meadows Resort, Aspen, CO; 970-300-2786.
What’s special: The resort, located on 40 acres and beside the Roaring Fork River, has the Rocky Mountains as its breathtaking backdrop. The 98 guest suites have been recently renovated. The original home of the Aspen Institute (which is now headquartered in DC), the resort is the birthplace of the Aspen Idea, which is a balance of mind, body, and spirit. The resort offers a taste of Aspen’s art and history, and ample access to the outdoors and mountain recreation. In fall, guests can fly fish, bike, and hike.
The deal: The “Washingtonian Exclusive” stay offers 10 percent off the best available rate for a two-night stay, or 20 percent off a stay of three nights or more. Room rates start at $255 a night. Visit the resort’s website, click on “reserve” to enter your dates, and use the promo code STAYMW.
When: Valid for stays through October 31.
Luxury by a Rainforest
Where: Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve, Rio Grande, Puerto Rico; 787-657-1234.
What’s special: Located about 30 minutes from the capital, San Juan, this oceanfront resort is spread across 72 acres of protected natural surroundings at the foothills of the El Yunque rainforest. It features 579 guest rooms, suites, and villas, including ocean-facing Regency Suites, which have private pools and gazebos for lounging, and the newly constructed Villas en la Reserva, which offer spacious balconies, separate living areas, and kitchenettes. Resort guests will find a private beach for swimming and a variety of non-motorized sports, a large lagoon-style oceanfront pool, a spa, two 18-hole championship golf courses, and an indoor Top Golf venue that features a variety of indoor virtual sports.
The deal: The “4th Night Free + $100 Credit” offer includes, as the name implies, a fourth night free plus a $100 resort credit. The package starts at $330 a night. Washingtonian readers also receive two complimentary cocktails at the Wet Bar or Lobby Bar by mentioning Washingtonian at check-in.
When: Book by December 15 for travel until December 20, 2023.
