Water views—it’s a top feature many seek when booking their dream getaway, from turquoise oceans and crystal clear alpine lakes to winding rivers. Finding a place to vacation near a flowing river is not just an alternative to a beach getaway, but riverside hotels are full of recreational opportunities and natural beauty. These top riverside hotels in the United States are gorgeous places to retreat.
Triple Creek Ranch - Darby, Montana
Full of natural beauty and outdoor adventures, Montana is a fantastic getaway for nature lovers. This all-inclusive ranch living can be found in the Montana Rockies, where guests can nestle into snuggly, high-end cabins complete with fireplaces and views for days. The Bitterroot River opens the doors to numerous activities like fly fishing, while guests can horseback ride, pan for sapphires, ski, hike, or go on a nature safari, to name a few. The river is the perfect accent to this “cowboys” getaway in Darby, Montana.
Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa - Moab, Utah
Picturesquely set in Moab, Utah, guests are right amongst the famous landscape of the southern portion of the state. An accumulation of cabin-esque rooms, suites and small houses line along generous acreage, perfect for horseback riding and hiking. Other features include a precious petting zoo, fire pits with s’mores fixings and farm to table cuisine featuring wild game. From patios and lounging spots along the banks, the river is a stunning amenity of the ranch and is accented by classic desert hills of the region.
Redfish Riverside Inn - Stanley, Idaho
Stanley, Idaho is surrounded by some of the most stunning highways in the entire United States, while remaining extremely under the radar. It’s all about nature here—true disconnection. Fishing, hiking, winter skiing and floating the river are the focus because of both the unimaginable beauty and lack of commercialization. The Sawtooth Mountain range jaggedly envelopes the area, lush foliage consumes the hills and fields in the summer and the Salmon River rushes through the heart. Redfish River Inn is a mash-up of a cozy lodge, an authentic feeling rental cabin and suites with the most incredible riverfront balconies.
Rustic Inn at Jackson Hole - Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Hardly just rustic, this lodge-like escape is highly refined with elegant touches you’d expect in a hotel located within Jackson Hole. Cabins and rooms hug along the river, which offers on-site fishing and tube floating, while spa suites elevate the experience further by adding turndown service, a private bar, butler assistance and a secluded hot tub and fire pit escape. Breakfast is served gourmet buffet style and has received the number one ranking in the state. The spa is something to behold with lovely designs and lavish amenities like a dry sauna and eucalyptus room, while nearby you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly activities in Jackson Hole.
506 on the River Inn - Woodstock, Vermont
Charming and quaint, this polished inn sits right on the Ottauquechee River in Woodstock, Vermont. While appearing aesthetically like a Four Seasons property, 506 on the River Inn encapsulates an undeniable small bed and breakfast feel, which is quite warm and welcoming. Culinarily, the food is superb, from country breakfasts to flavorful seasonal ingredients in bistro dishes. The indoor pool is easy on the eyes with airy touches and a multi-hued blue-tiled pool. While being luxurious, families will find the place very accommodating to young ones.
Kenai Riverside Lodge-Alaska Wildland Adventures - Cooper Landing, Alaska
Knotty wood-paneled cabins are accented with porches and Adirondack chairs for taking in the Kenai River, right within the breathtaking Chugach National Forest. Guides are on hand to take guests trout and salmon fishing, while hiking tours through the mountainous area are available as well. Complimentary seems to be the motto at this escape in the Alaskan woods, as delicious home-cooked meals are a part of the stay, too. At the end of the day have some drinks in the lounge or decompress, if you haven’t already in nature, at the dry sauna.
Conrad New York - New York, New York
Enjoy the city bustle and river views all at the same time at the posh Conrad New York. In one sweeping glance, you can take in the skyline and the expansive Hudson River—it’s not the rugged valleys of the northwest, but jaw-dropping nonetheless. You’re in New York, so it’s not like it’s a stretch to find something amazing to do, and from this particular location, you’re within walking distance of an abundance of attractions and iconic hot spots.
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk - San Antonio, Texas
Mediterranean and Spanish vibes appropriately meld at what might be San Antonio’s most lovely riverside hotel. Set right on the infamous Riverwalk, boat rides, horse-drawn carriage jaunts and a vibrant music and food scene are right at your fingertips. Many attractions can easily be reached on foot as you graze by the lovely river, the Alamo is one of the top ones. Be sure to explore the highly praised restaurants like Pancake Joe’s and Pollos Asados Los Nortenos. Side note, San Antonio is also famous for having amazing chili.
Storybook Riverside Inn - Leavenworth, Washington
The name truly says it all—stone and wood accents, curved doors, dreamy carved post beds and gingerbread house windows are just a handful of details that make this place purely magical. Water features can be viewed from your porch overlooking the sparkling, peaceful Wenatchee River or even in showers with extended rocks overhead from which water flows down. Feeling like something from a hobbit’s shire, there’s much to be discovered at this heavenly oasis in an already picture-perfect town, Leavenworth, Washington.
