Maui
If the island vibe isn’t enough escape all by itself, and Maui’s quiet tropical countryside isn’t enough contrast from the tourist resorts, go islander for a few days at the Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono. Restored to its 1924 glory and named a historic place by the state of Hawaii, the multi-award-winning, seven-room inn is still full of modern amenities, including a private bath, air conditioning and Wi-Fi in each room. Free parking is available on site. A more modern three-room cottage called Vagabond’s House was also built on the property recently. Breakfasts are different each day of the week and available only to guests, so don’t worry about a crowd. The town of Wailuku is located about 15 minutes from the beach in view of the West Maui Mountains and Mt. Haleakala. Reservations are required, as is a two-night minimum stay. Rooms are $165-$195 per night. Rooms in the Vagabond House are $175-$195 per night.
:: mauiinn.com
Colorado Springs
Out your window is your own view of Pikes Peak and a million acres of Pikes National Forest below it. Whether they are covered in snow or lush and green, the natural beauty is astounding. But on your side of the window, it’s all modern luxury at Pikes Peak Paradise. Newly redecorated rooms feature a fireplace, deck, private bath with whirlpool tubs, hi-def flat screen TV with CD and DVD player, and a library of music and movies to choose from because there is no cable. Each of the five rooms has its own theme: German, Roman, English, Egyptian, and Monte Carlo. Before you head out to ski, hike, fish, or go horseback riding, you can load up on blackberry buckwheat buttermilk waffles, smoked salmon with capers and onions or traditional German fare while you stare out at that view. Depending on the season, rooms begin at $180 or $190, and run to $220 or $240 per night.
:: pikespeakparadise.com
New York City
What is now The Canal Park Inn in New York City was built in 1828 on a landfill when the city first sought to shore up some irregularities on the river’s shoreline. The area has since become the hip neighborhood of North Tribeca, full of five-star restaurants and famous architecture. The building is a historic landmark and an example of a federal-style building with a storefront on the street level and private residences above. The Canal Street Playhouse now occupies the ground level, presenting plays and cabaret, while the Inn is just four suites that mix 19th-century architecture and furniture with modern amenities. Each has a private bath featuring a claw-foot tub and period shower fixtures, but also has central air and soundproofed walls. Guests get their complimentary breakfast in the playhouse café, and profits from the inn go to support the playhouse. It’s easy to walk from the inn to Greenwich Village, Soho and the East Village. Rooms run $190 to $350 per night. Reservations are recommended.
:: thecanalparkinn.com
