KrowdFit is a digital wellness engagement platform that makes it possible to earn cash-back rewards when you use its app to track activities like steps, sleep and meals. The company also offers the $0-annual-fee KrowdFit Wellness Rewards Mastercard, which can help improve your financial fitness when you spend on self-care.
Cardholders can earn an impressive and uncapped 4% cash back on an expansive list of eligible “health, wellness, medical and lifestyle partners” — including Walmart and Target — in addition to 2% back on grocery purchases and 1% back everywhere else. Better yet, those rewards are issued instantly, so you won’t have to wait until the end of your billing cycle to redeem them.
According to a KrowdFit representative, you’ll need a FICO score above 650 to qualify for the card, which comes with a virtual card number for immediate use upon approval.
Here are five things to know about the KrowdFit credit card.
1. Earn outsized cash back on wellness purchases and more
The KrowdFit Card offers 2% cash back at grocery stores (excluding membership stores like Costco) and 1% cash back on all other purchases. While those rates are unspectacular, the card stands out thanks to the breadth of categories that qualify for its stellar 4% rate. Some of those categories include:
Food: Restaurants, specialty markets and “miscellaneous” food stores.
Health care: Medical and dental providers, health insurance and drugstores.
Wellness: Massage parlors, spa services, and health and beauty shops.
Clothing: Family clothing stores, sports apparel and shoe stores.
Outdoor activities: Public and private golf courses, country clubs, and sporting and recreational camps.
Transportation: Including boat, motorcycle and snowmobile dealers.
Discount stores: Including Walmart, Target and others.
As of this writing, more than 30 merchant category codes (MCC) qualify for 4% cash back — a massive number for a no-annual-fee card that doesn’t require active management, such as tracking a bonus calendar or opting into bonus categories.
Also, if you make a purchase that you think should qualify for bonus cash back and it doesn’t, you can request to have the MCC code added to KrowdFit’s list.
2. Get one year of KrowdFit Premium and extra cash giveaway entries
Like many apps, KrowdFit has two versions: a free one with advertisements, and a premium one without the ads that promises a few additional perks. Cardholders will receive a one-year complimentary membership to KrowdFit Premium, normally $1.99 per month.
To incentivize healthy living and activity, KrowdFit offers cash giveaways that are paid out Monday, Wednesday and Friday of every week, in addition to a $5,000 physical activity cash giveaway on the first day of every month. The more you use the app to track things like sleep, diet and activity, the more entries you get.
3. See your credit line and interest rate before the hard pull
When you apply for a credit card, the issuer will typically conduct a hard inquiry to determine your creditworthiness. That inquiry can often lead to a temporary decrease in your credit scores, even though it’s generally conducted before you know what credit limit and interest rate you’re being offered.
But the KrowdFit card lets you see whether you’ll be approved — including the credit limit and interest rate — before you receive a hard pull. That way you know exactly what you’re being offered and whether it’s worth the impact to your credit scores. A hard pull is conducted only after you accept the offer.
Who doesn’t want to be rewarded?
Create a NerdWallet account for personalized recommendations, and find the card that rewards you the most for your spending.
4. Receive an instant virtual card number
Once you accept the credit line and interest rate provided through the preapproval process, you’ll immediately receive a virtual card number. This number gives you instant access to your credit line and can be added to your virtual wallet or used online for purchases.
Once you receive the physical card in the mail, simply replace your virtual card number with the number on the front of your card.
5. There’s no sign-up bonus
The ongoing rewards structure for the KrowdFit card is solid, but the card lacks something other no-annual fee cards offer — a sign-up bonus. Whether you’re looking for cash back or travel miles, a sign-up bonus is the easiest way to pile up rewards.
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card card has a $0 annual fee and offers the following sign-up bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value. You’ll also earn 3 points per $1 spent on travel, dining, gas, public transportation, streaming services and phone plans.
Or there’s the Chase Freedom Flex℠, which also has a $0 annual fee and features the following sign-up bonus: Earn a $200 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. In addition, you’ll earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories you activate each quarter; 5% back on travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal; and 3% back on dining and drugstore purchases. All other nonbonus-category purchases earn 1% back.
These are the best apartment gyms in Sacramento. Which one matches up with your workout style?
Known as the “City of Trees,” there’s no doubt that Sacramento is a beautiful place to call home. Because the city is peppered with parks and full of fun options to fill your days with outdoor activities, it’s important to stay in shape if you want to experience the full scope of everything Sacramento has to offer.
Whether you’re a CrossFit junkie, dedicated treadmill runner or committed to curls, there’s an apartment gym on this list that will look like it was built just for you. Find the Sacramento gym that best fits your exercise style and start the process toward signing that lease today.
Source: Rent. / The Press Apartments
The Press Apartments is a modern complex designed to help residents maximize every aspect of their daily lives. From the private office spaces and 24-hour hangout area to the hound lounge to, of course, the pristine fitness center. Equipped with everything you’d expect to find in a community with more than a few things you seldom see outside of the most expensive monthly membership gyms, this gym sets the bar in Sacramento.
Providing residents with a yoga studio, multiple rowing machines and even a boxing machine, this gym has what you’re looking for regardless of how you like to get your heart rate up. Located in Sacramento’s highly sought-after Richmond Grove, life is good when you’re lucky enough to call The Press Apartments home.
Source: Rent. / Capitol Towers
The amenities at Capitol Towers are extensive. These downright beautiful apartments are located in Downtown Sacramento and it’s safe to say they boast one of the best apartment gyms in Sactown.
Featuring a loft-style fitness center with leg machines, a lat pulldown machine and enough free weights for all to enjoy a workout without any wait time, this fitness center doesn’t leave any room for complaints. The wellness amenities don’t stop at the expansive gym either. There are also two dry saunas, a spa/hot tub area and a large, rectangular pool that’s perfect for swimming laps.
Source: Rent. / Vasari
Situated south of Sacramento in Elk Grove, the Vasari apartment complex is complete with a fitness center that just might put your current gym to shame. With a dedicated spin area and yoga studio alongside a large gym equipped with an array of upper and lower body machines, heavy ropes and treadmills with pool views, it’s easy to see why residents often fall in love with this fitness center soon after signing the lease.
Whether you’re an early-morning lifter or more of an after-work elliptical person, you’re never short on options at this apartment gym. Not to mention the fact that you can work out hard with the comfort of knowing there’s a hot tub waiting for you to soak the soreness away.
Source: Rent. / Miramonte and Trovas
Lit up by large windows and a lime green accent wall, the fitness center at Miramonte and Trovas is more than meets the eye. With everything you’d expect in a well-equipped gym, like a Smith machine for safe reps without a spotter, large free weight racks and plenty of benches to help you get a full workout with ease, this gym clearly covers all the essentials.
Where this North Natomas complex really separates itself from the rest is its offering of fitness on-demand. The gym TVs have fitness on-demand, a system that allows residents to learn more about working out and fitness from the comfort of their home gym. No personal trainer is required, this fitness center has it all and then some.
Source: Rent. / The Mansion
With a name like “The Mansion” you better have some high-end amenities to match. Needless to say, the beautiful fitness center at this beautiful Boulevard Park apartment complex does not disappoint.
With strength and conditioning equipment as far as the eye can see, mirrored walls, flat-screen TVs and plenty of natural light, this gym sets up its residents for success and supports the journey toward accomplishing even the loftiest of personal fitness goals. Enjoy full-circuit workouts with top-tier equipment in this fine fitness center.
Source: Rent. / Kensington
Stationary bikes, Hoist machinery and Matrix treadmills are just a few of the stellar pieces of equipment you can expect to find at the Kensington fitness center. With vaulted ceilings letting in all the natural light you could ever want and, most importantly, enough space to stretch out and get your sweat on without being disturbed by others, this gym was built with residents’ comfort in mind every step of the way.
This Arden-Arcade apartment complex also boasts three pools and a relaxing spa. That means you can start your day swimming laps and then cap it off by soaking away the pains of the day.
Source: Rent. / Academy65
Known for its youthful resident population, proximity to Sacramento State and impressive list of amenities, Academy65 is a great place for active people to call home. Boasting a 24-hour fitness center complete with a StairMaster, multiple treadmills under flat-screen TVs, and a mountain of medicine balls, this fitness center is equipped to handle all types of exercise styles.
Not just catering to the heavy lifters, the fitness center at this College Town complex is also equipped with a yoga studio and spin area. Whether you’re looking to pedal away your problems or just improve your flexibility a little bit, there’s a space for you at the fitness center at Academy65.
Source: Rent. / The Woodlands
The Woodlands is a magnificent Metro Center apartment complex with, as you may have guessed from the name, an appealing cabin feel. With more than one StairMaster, a lat pulldown machine and a squat rack all at your disposal, among many other pieces of top-tier equipment, there’s no questioning the Woodlands fitness center’s place on this list.
The opportunities for recreation don’t end at the fitness center either. This complex also provides residents with a cornhole court, three pools and two hot tubs. Regardless of what you’re feeling, there’s always something to do at The Woodlands.
Source: Rent. / Irongate
Located in North Natomas, Sacramento, the fitness center at Irongate isn’t just spacious, it’s also equipped with everything you need to not just achieve but to exceed your fitness goals. Whether you are looking to up your cardio, tack on some mass, drop a few pounds or anything in between, you have more than a few options thanks to the exercise amenities at this North Natomas fitness center.
Adorned with upper and lower-body machines, lots of free weights and flat-screen TVs for when you need a mental break from your treadmill running or leg pressing, exercise options are never an issue. Thanks to white walls, a high ceiling and plenty of natural light, this fitness center feels large and always has enough space for residents to work out, even during the busier hours.
Source: Rent. / The Fremont
Easily recognizable by its unique Mediterranean architecture, The Fremont is one of the more desirable buildings in Midtown to call home. With sizable windows to let in natural light, large free-weight racks, stacks of stationary balls and a couple of shelves of complimentary towels, this fitness center is fully stocked and ideal for fitness-minded folks from all walks of life.
Also boasting a professional-grade stationary bike alongside a state-of-the-art elliptical machine and treadmill, The Fremont’s fantastic fitness center supports your cardio goals.
Get your sweat on in Sacramento
Whether you’re a daily runner, a weekly weightlifter or someone just looking to improve flexibility the slightest bit, Sacramento is full of apartment gyms that are capable of supporting you through even the most ambitious fitness goals.
See yourself getting your sweat on in one of these next-level fitness centers? Fill out an application today and reignite your passion for personal fitness in your new apartment gym.
Featured image source: Rent. / The Press Apartments
Officials on Friday released fresh details about the first Storyliving by Disney project, an ambitious effort in Riverside County to infuse a master-planned community with the Burbank entertainment giant’s trademark whimsy and wonder.
Among the newly unveiled features of the in-the-works Cotino community is the “Parr House” — a gathering space inspired in name, design and decor by the midcentury-style home of the superhero family in the Disney and Pixar film “Incredibles 2.”
Along with a main entertaining room featuring an indoor/outdoor rock fireplace, the Parr House will include an art studio, kitchen, dining room, boardroom and five bedrooms.
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It will also have an elevated patio featuring views of the nearby mountains, as well as the community’s 24-acre “grand oasis.”
Access to the Parr House, as well as other community features such as a designated beach area and certain events and activities will be open to those who opt to purchase membership in what Storyliving by Disney calls the Artisan Club.
“From Disney entertainment and events to spaces inspired by Disney stories, club members will truly experience Disney story living,” Claire Bilby, senior vice president and general manager of Disney Signature Experiences Emerging Businesses, said in a statement.
Club membership will be open to Cotino residents and nonresidents.
“A professionally managed public beach park will be accessible to local area residents and visitors to the Greater Palm Springs area with the purchase of a day pass,” the venture said in a statement.
Cotino is being built on 618 acres in the city of Rancho Mirage, near where Walt Disney Co.’s namesake founder once owned a home.
“Walt Disney was so inspired by this place — he called it his ‘laughing place,’” Amy Young, a Walt Disney Imagineering creative director, said in a video posted to the Disney Parks YouTube channel. “In a sense, we’re following Walt’s footsteps here. The same things that inspired him years ago, they inspire us today. The area has this real energy to it, and you can see why Walt loved it.”
For the project, Disney is collaborating with Arizona-based DMB Development, which specializes in planned communities.
Cotino will ultimately include somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,932 residential units. Sales are anticipated to begin in 2023, with the first homes expected to be complete in 2024.
Various home types will be available, including estates, single-family homes and condominiums. At least one section of the development will be designated for residents age 55 or older.
“Storyliving by Disney master-planned communities are intended to inspire residents to foster new friendships, pursue their interests and write the next exciting chapter in their lives,” the venture said.
Other locations are being explored for potential future projects, but no details have yet been publicly announced.
Disney, like many of its competitors, has faced pressure to rein in costs — particularly in the increasingly crowded streaming arena. Along with Disney+, the company also owns ESPN+ and two-thirds of Hulu.
The company’s chief executive, Bob Iger, on Monday provided more details of his plan to cut 7,000 jobs as part of a wider effort to rejuvenate its finances and reach profitability in its streaming business.
According to people familiar with the matter, the layoffs are spread throughout the company — affecting roles in the units formerly known as Disney General Entertainment and Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, as well as corporate positions and jobs in the theme parks, experiences and consumer products business.
Times staff writer Ryan Faughnder contributed to this report.
If endless live music, mouthwatering tacos, natural pools and beautiful parks are your idea of a perfect trip, it might just be time to visit Austin, the bohemian capital of the Lone Star State.
Home to events like South by Southwest, Austin City Limits festival and bachelorette parties galore (not to mention barbecue and the University of Texas at Austin), ATX truly has something for everyone.
There’s also a place to stay for every type of traveler, from historic motor lodges converted into chic motels to luxury names we all know. There’s even a lakeside spa resort designed to help guests recharge and relax in the stunning beauty of Central Texas.
Whether you’re a city slicker in town for business, a foodie lookin’ to taste the best Texas has to offer, or you are embarking on a western road trip, here are some of Austin’s best hotels (including some excellent points options), where you can settle in and make a temporary home.
Just don’t forget: Keep it weird.
Related: Why Austin Airport keeps its vendors local to create an airport for foodies
The Line Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
THE LINE HOTEL/FACEBOOK
Best for: Folks looking for a stay that matches Austin’s effortless cool vibes.
Why stay here: The year-round heated pool overlooks the Congress Avenue Bridge, making it the perfect spot to watch the city’s famed bats take flight.
Best way to book: Book direct for the best rates and packages, or through your favorite credit card travel portal.
This Line Austin is one of this hotel reporter’s favorite hotels in the world — and I’ve stayed at some pretty incredible places.
For starters, the location in Downtown Austin, butting up to the Colorado River, is perfect for exploring the eclectic shops and restaurants of South Congress and the lively (though touristy) bars and nightlife on 6th Street. It also sits right along Lady Bird Lake and the Congress Avenue bridge, so you can watch the largest colony of bats in North America put on their natural show as you take a dip in the hotel’s heated pool. (Sounds scary, but it’s one of Austin’s main attractions!)
Inside the hotel, rooms are simple but chic, with a modern, industrial aesthetic made comfortable with Bellino linens, a curated assortment of local snacks and drinks, and floor-to-ceiling windows that fill the space with light radiating from that big Texas sky. Request a lake view room so you can spend a lazy morning watching locals and tourists take advantage of the water.
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At Arlo Grey, “Top Chef” winner Kristen Kish serves up an inspired menu rooted in local fare (think: crispy rice with saffron aioli and cilantro and a Texas-raised Wagyu ribeye with spring onion fritter) alongside cocktails and an international wine list. Wet your whistle at P6, a lovely lounge atop the parking garage serving creative cocktails, elevated bar food and dramatic sunset views over Lady Bird Lake.
Rates at Line Austin start at $225 per night.
Austin Proper Hotel
Austin, Texas, USA
AUSTIN PROPER HOTEL/FACEBOOK
Best for: Design lovers looking for an Instagram-worthy moment.
Why stay here: The Austin Proper Hotel is one of the most visually appealing hotels in town — if not the entire state.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn Marriott points while enjoying elite-like benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking through Marriott directly.
In a place as trendy as Austin, it’s only right to stay in a hotel with just as much texture and style as the city itself. That’s why Austin Proper (part of Marriott’s Design Hotels), located Downtown on 2nd Street, should be a top contender.
Designed by the influential creative Kelly Wearstler, the hotel exudes a sort of unbridled confidence that will have you posing in plush armchairs and planning outfits to match all that over-the-top wallpaper just to make your followers jealous.
Rooms at this Proper outpost (the others are in California with more East Coast properties coming soon) are grounded in natural hues and elements, such as local stones and woods, and complemented by giant windows with motorized shades, Simmons Providence mattresses and comfortable robes from Parachute. Even better are two amenities every single hotel in the world should include: Apple TV and a fabric steamer.
If you don’t fill up on local art, stop by The Peacock for Mediterranean food, followed by a nightcap at Quill Room, a clubby lounge with live music. During the day, beat the Texas heat with a spicy marg from the rooftop pool restaurant, La Piscina, or borrow a bike and cruise along the river. To really relax, hit up the Verbena Spa for an agave- and tequila-infused treatment ($338 for 90 minutes).
Rates at Austin Proper Hotel start at $350 or 42,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Miraval Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY
Best for: An ultraluxurious tune-up for the mind, body and soul in the heart of Texas.
Why stay here: When you want to do a little self-care, it’s always best to let the pampering Miraval team take care of everything else for the duration of your stay.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits; or reserve through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts for value-added benefits like upgrades and late checkout based on availability, plus on-property statement credits.
One of the crowning brands in Hyatt’s robust portfolio, Miraval Resorts offers tranquil retreats that help guests center themselves in the day-to-day hustle we call life, as well as give them a chance to disconnect from technology thanks to its mostly unplugged cellphone policy.
The adults-only Miraval Austin is tucked away in a sprawling complex in the hills. Guests have plenty of wellness-focused activities to choose from, including sound healing sessions, yoga and meditation classes. There are also experiences with horses, farming activities like chicken keeping, and even more physical activities like a ropes course challenge and climbing walls (note that some activities are not included in the mostly all-inclusive pricing structure of Miraval Austin.)
Food is served at The Hilltop Crossings Kitchen, which is designed to be as calming, healthy and nourishing as the rest of any stay. Beyond the standard three meals daily, a rotating menu of food-focused activities, like “Conscious Mixology” and lessons on gut health, are on offer.
Related: A review of Miraval Austin Resort and Spa
Then, of course, there’s the Life in Balance Spa. Experiences here range from a deep tissue massage ($235 for 50 min) to Eastern-inspired experiences like the “Crystal Energy Balancing” session ($195 for 50 min) that uses Reiki and crystals to help cleanse the soul.
Rates at Miraval Austin start around $1,200 or 57,500 or 72,000 World of Hyatt points per night, both based on double occupancy. Note that every award booking includes a $175 resort credit per person.
Fairmont Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
FAIRMONT AUSTIN/FACEBOOK
Best for: Austin visitors who want a stylish stay close to all the action.
Why stay here: A resort-style, year-round rooftop pool is the perfect place to escape the downtown crowds.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elite-like benefits and on-property credits.
For those looking for a more refined stay in Austin, high above the boozy bars of Downtown, the Fairmont is a top-notch choice with an array of superb amenities that make it difficult to decide how to spend your time.
You could reserve a cabana for privacy or snag a pool lounger to soak up the sun beside the Texas-size, resort-style rooftop pool. Or, pamper yourself at the Fairmont Austin Spa for a Himalayan Hot Salt Stones Massage ($195 for 50 minutes) or take a soothing dip in the indoor, infinity-like soaking pool.
Rooms at this Fairmont radiate classic luxury, with plush beds, floor-to-ceiling windows, comfortable lounge chairs and a neutral colorway with pops of blue and green. In the bathroom, who could ask for anything better than Le Labo Rose 31 toiletries?
While Austin boasts some of the best dining in the state, the Fairmont has plenty of its own restaurants to wade through. There’s the Texas-style, open-flame steakhouse Garrison; the Room 725 Champaign and Caviar Bar; seasonal bites and drinks at Fulton; and more.
Rates at Fairmont Austin start around $207 per night.
The Driskill
Austin, Texas, USA
THE DRISKILL/FACEBOOK
Best for: Refined travelers who clean up for the day but want to let loose on buzzy 6th Street at night.
Why stay here: This hotel perfectly marries its storied place in Texas history with its convenient physical location to Austin’s main nightlife corridor.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn World of Hyatt points while enjoying elite-like benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking through Hyatt directly.
Though Austin’s skyline is full of glitzy new highrises, the city also has a handful of hotels loaded with history — none more than the Driskill, part of Hyatt’s Unbound Collection, which dates back over 100 years to 1886. Here you’ll find a mix of old and new glamour, but all with a Texas twist. Rooms feature wrought-iron beds with cowhide benches at the foot, trunk-style nightstands, wooden writing desks and large drapes with valances depicting the exterior of the hotel.
Right near the action of 6th Street (which, be warned, can get rowdy) and not too far from the state Capitol, this hotel is a great place to steep yourself in Texas traditions — especially when it comes to food. Stop by the leather- and cowhide-clad Driskill Bar, and you might find yourself sippin’ on a local draft beer with a helping of pimento cheese. Next, head to dinner at The Grill, where former President and Lady Bird Johnson had their first date, for a biscuit board (it’s exactly what it sounds like!) and filet mignon.
Rates at The Driskill start at $204 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Four Seasons Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL AUSTIN/FACEBOOK
Best for: The luxury-obsessed and people who want quick access to the water.
Why stay here: The on-demand margarita cart will have a bartender mixing margs in the comfort of your room.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elite-like benefits and on-property credits.
The Four Seasons is known for giving its guests the most in unbridled luxury — and in Austin, that comes in the shape of an on-demand margarita cart because what’s more luxe than a Clase Azul Añejo marg at just a phone call away?
Actually, there are plenty of things equally as luxe at the Four Seasons Austin, like rooms featuring the Canadian brand’s signature beds, views of Lady Bird Lake, Byredo bath products in a travertine shower and twice-daily housekeeping. For a little more, opt for a Lake View Balcony Room so you can take that aforementioned margarita (say that five times fast!) right out into the fresh air.
If you’d rather enjoy your drink at the bar, stop at Live Oak, where you can sample a chili-infused mezcal cocktail served in a glass boot by an oversized fire pit. At Cicilo, Texas and Latin flavors merge to create a menu featuring fare like enchiladas rojas, sea scallops and pork belly, grilled steaks and smoked Texas quail.
However, there’s more to do than eat and drink. Relax by the pool or grab a hiking trail guide and explore the paths right outside the hotel, which is along the river in downtown Austin. Head to the fitness center for a yoga class, or book a treatment of your choice at the luxurious spa.
Rates at the Four Seasons Austin start at $640 per night.
Thompson Austin
Austin, Texas
THOMPSON AUSTIN/FACEBOOK
Best for: Hyatt loyalists wanting a taste of Austin’s eclectic style.
Why stay here: Celebrated culinary duo Mashama Bailey and Johno Morisano (behind Savannah’s famed restaurant The Grey) lead the food and beverage programming.
Best way to book: Book directly through Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
One of the most exciting new hotels in town (included in TPG’s list of most anticipated hotel openings of 2022), the Thompson Austin is a sleek, moody new World of Hyatt property right at the heart of all the action.
Here, guests can expect stylish rooms designed by Chicago-based Simeone Deary Design Group, with terrazzo floors, green leather headboards, big TVs to catch up on Netflix, rainfall showers with D.S. & Durga bath amenities and fabric steamers to easily work out the wrinkles in your garments without wrestling with an iron and ironing board.
The real star of this property is The Diner Bar, where James Beard Award-winning chef Mashama Bailey and restaurant partner John O. Marisano (the forces behind Savannah’s hit restaurant, The Gray) serve seasonal southern food with a Texas flare. (There’s also a grab-and-go counter from the duo if you’re short on time.)
On the fourth floor, a pool deck offers lounge chairs and cabanas to relax in while grazing on snacks from Wax Myrtles, a Texas-meets-California Mexican restaurant serving bites like fish tacos and shrimp tostadas alongside heat-beating frozen drinks, fun cocktails and local beer on tap.
Rates at Thompson Austin start around $300 or 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Lake Austin Spa Resort
Austin, Texas, USA
LAKE AUSTIN SPA RESORT AND SPA/FACEBOOK
Best for: People who want a wellness experience combined with all the fun of a beautiful lake.
Why stay here: Located near one of the country’s most booming cities, this spa resort is equal parts fun, relaxation and style.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark for elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
The all-inclusive Lake Austin Spa Resort is the place to leave the “weird” of Austin behind, set your intentions on rest and relaxation and enjoy the better parts of life on 19 acres of lakefront property.
Half an hour from downtown Austin, this dreamy resort is accessible by car — but the more fun way to get there is by water taxi. As the water taxi is less crowded than the highway, so is the resort itself, with just 40 sun-filled rooms with porches, relaxing soaking tubs, tall ceilings and even cottages that have their own hot tubs.
The pricing structure here gets guests three hearty meals a day (room service counts), plus healthy smoothies, juices and snacks. Also included is a 24-hour fitness area, lake activities like kayaks and paddleboards, a lakeside beach, outdoor pools, swings and hammocks (to finally read that book you’ve been carrying around), a heated indoor pool and tons of activities ranging from belly dancing classes to hiking in the hills.
Just don’t forget, it is a spa resort — and this one has a whopping 25,000-square-foot facility that offers whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and more. Treatments range from the ultra-luxe (we’re talking a caviar-infused facial that’s a little north of $1,000) to more standard options (like a deep-tissue massage, starting at $225).
Rates at Austin Spa Resort start at $1,550 per night, based on double occupancy.
Hotel Van Zandt
Austin, Texas, USA
HOTEL VAN ZANDT/FACEBOOK
Best for: Travelers who want a boutique stay on an Austin-centric street full of popping bars, live music and local food trucks.
Why stay here: Located in the Rainey Street District, this hotel is steps from where locals and tourists both come to play.
Best way to book: Book directly through Marriott to earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Formerly a Kimpton hotel, the now-independent Hotel Van Zandt towers over the Rainey Street District, a strip of houses-turned-bars, parking lots filled with food trucks and a generally younger crowd looking to live it up on one of Austin’s main party drags.
Though Rainey Street might seem a little college-like, the hotel feels all grown up, with rooms featuring a color palette of deep blues and airy beiges, large wooden desks, plush linens and a table with leather chairs. Non-standard rooms include a spa suite with a soaking tub; 900-square-foot Presidential Suites, complete with kitchenettes and vinyl record players; and pool view rooms.
Speaking of the pool, the rooftop pool deck has plush cabanas and a poolside bar serving snacks and drinks, and there’s a massive fireplace where guests gather on crisp evenings. If you’re hungry, stop by Geraldine’s, offering Texas-inspired brunch and dinner, plus daily live music. You might think Texas is all country, but make a reservation for Jazz Brunch, and you’ll leave realizing why Austin is called the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
Rates at the Hotel Van Zandt start at $206 per night.
W Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
W AUSTIN/MARRIOTT.COM
Best for: Marriott loyalists who want a points property in the heart of Austin’s downtown action.
Why stay here: With four distinct areas, including a room filled with hundreds of records and a bar designed for tasting legendary tequilas, the hotel lobby is a destination in itself.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn Marriott points while enjoying elite-like benefits and on-property credits, or redeem your points by booking through Marriott directly.
At W Austin, located downtown, Marriott loyalists can find a funky slice of home that’s fitting for a trip to one of America’s funkiest cities.
Rooms that would otherwise be considered bland or stale are brightened with whimsical pops of color. Also, staying true to the W brand aesthetic, there are fun red couches and armless chairs to lounge in. Other elements include images from local photographer Scott Newton, Bricor Venturi shower heads and 300-thread-count bedding because every visitor to Austin knows a good day requires a good night’s sleep.
Know, though, that Austin isn’t the kind of place you spend too much time in your room. Instead, the home base at this hotel is the immaculate lobby, split into various sections. They include the Tequila Bar, with a vast assortment of spirits and games to play; the Record Room, where guests can pursue over 8,000 different vinyl records; and the Living Room, which offers a club-like atmosphere with a live DJ some nights.
The hotel also has a restaurant, Trace, serving breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner with a menu of locally sourced foods ranging from pasta dishes to brisket sandwiches. There’s also a fourth-floor pool deck with lounge chairs and cabanas, a spa and a 3,600-square-foot gym.
Rates at W Austin start at $257 or 44,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Commodore Perry Estate
Austin, Texas, USA
COMMODORE PERRY ESTATE, AUBERGE RESORTS COLLECTION/FACEBOOK
Best for: Jetsetters or city folk looking for an urban escape.
Why stay here: Set in a palatial estate, rooms trade in Austin’s contemporary vibes for European panache fitting of Lone Star royalty.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elite-like benefits and on-property credits.
Auberge Resorts knows luxury well — and that’s exemplified at its Austin property, Commodore Perry Estate, which is set in a European-meets-Texan walled estate sprawling over 10 acres. An iconic landmark given a new life, this retreat offers stunning, Renaissance-inspired suites in the historic mansion and a series of rooms and suites in the Inn, all filled with various accents like four-poster beds, leather couches, ornately-framed artworks and local goods to take home from the room in an area cleverly called “The Estate Sell.”
Guests can relax by the cooling pool waters but don’t miss out on the many events scheduled throughout a stay, including tequila tastings, custom boot experiences, hiking and live music. For the wellness-minded, there are HITT and yoga classes, meditation sessions and personal training instructors. Across the street, a nine-hole public golf course invites folks to practice their swing.
Meals are savored at Lutie’s Garden Restaurant, named after the estate’s original matriarch and designed by the eclectic visionary Ken Fulk. Meals consist of fresh, seasonal produce with an underlying focus on incorporating ingredients and meats from local farmers and ranchers. Guests can also eat poolside from a menu of select pool snacks.
Rates at Commodore Perry Estate start at $520 per night.
Austin Motel
Austin, Texas, USA
AUSTIN MOTEL/FACEBOOK
Best for: A trip with friends or bachelor or bachelorette parties.
Why stay here: With retro design, a buzzy outdoor space perfect for sipping a craft margarita and an ideal location on South Congress, the Austin Motel is the epitome of what makes Austin so fun.
Best way to book: Book direct for the best rates and packages, or through your favorite credit card travel portal.
If you’re a fan of retro vibes, ’70s decor and Wes Anderson films, you’ll be right at home at the Austin Motel, a staple of South Congress and the Austin hotel scene.
At this vintage motel, guests sleep in rooms with quirky wallpaper, brightly colored headboards, Sferra sheets — and peace of mind from knowing that you’re in one of the coolest places in town.
Spicy margaritas are best had beside the kidney-shaped pool, where red-and-white plastic fold-up pool chairs invite guests to relax in the sun (or pose for a very likable photo). Next door, in a space shared with the hotel, Joann’s Fine Foods serves tacos throughout the day (breakfast tacos are life in Austin) alongside enchiladas, sizzling fajitas and lots and lots of queso.
Just don’t forget to stop at the hotel’s bodega, or general store, for some Austin-centric goods to take home, like fun T-shirts, funky swim trunks and other goods worthy of a splurge.
Rates at the Austin Motel start at $149 per night.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
Austin, Texas, USA
HOTEL SAINT CECILIA/FACEBOOK
Best for: People who know that a hotel can be so much more than a place to rest your weary head.
Why stay here: Built around a Victorian-era home, the Hotel Saint Cecilia is playful, chic and one of the trendiest places to stay in one of the country’s trendiest cities.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elite-like benefits and on-property credits.
Found in South Austin, Hotel Saint Cecilia (named after the patron saint of music and poetry) is an intimate abode that oozes charm and Austin’s fresh sense of cool. Rooms include minimalist studios, ornate suites and poolside bungalows with record players, king-size Hästens beds and outdoor seating where you can sit back and relax.
At the 50-foot heated lap pool, children are allowed until 2 p.m. Then, the area turns into an adults-only space where drinks, like a chili-infused reposado tequila, and snacks (try the charcuterie board) are on offer from the Lounge. Guests can also enjoy a full bar and food menu away from the pool in a charming seating and bar area that’s generally not open to the public.
Rates at Hotel Saint Cecilia start at $449 per night.
The Loren at Lady Bird Lake
Austin, Texas, USA
THE LOREN AT LADY BIRD LAKE/FACEBOOK
Best for: Travelers to Austin who want to feel part of the scene without being directly in the middle of it.
Why stay here: This new hotel is perfectly located near Austin’s legendary green spaces but still close enough to walk to its bustling entertainment districts.
Best way to book: Book direct for the best rates and packages, or through your favorite credit card travel portal.
Another hotel new on the scene, the Loren at Lady Bird Lake, has all the character you’d expect from such a vibrant city but is slightly removed, geographically speaking, from the true hustle and bustle of downtown.
The public areas are industrial chic, with concrete walls adorned with beautiful plants everywhere you look, soft wood tones and cozy couches on which to relax. Throughout the hotel, an impressive collection of art themed around science and architecture also commands attention.
In the rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows provide views of the best parts of Austin, vibrant green carpet brings the outdoors inside, and a charming mix of leather furniture, patterned headboards and sleek white Sferra linens effortlessly ties it all together. Bathrooms feature beautiful stone countertops, walk-in showers (some rooms have free-standing tubs) and Malin+Goetz products to wash away the day.
Inside the hotel, the rooftop restaurant Nido features a menu of seasonal offerings throughout the day, from a blue crab omelet for breakfast to pasta dishes, meat and seafood dishes for dinner. Room service is also available, and a coffee shop in the lobby can help jumpstart your day with a caffeine fix.
There’s also a gorgeous 8th-floor pool deck with lounge chairs for catching some sun, a spa and a fitness center. With its waterfront location, you can borrow kayaks and hit the lake for a true taste of what Austin’s all about.
Rates at The Loren at Lady Bird Lake start at $380 per night.
Hotel Zaza
Austin, Texas, USA
HOTEL ZAZA/FACEBOOK
Best for: Those looking for a boutique stay near the neon lights of downtown.
Why stay here: Just steps away from the city’s storied nightlife, this Austin hotel is the perfect home base.
Best way to book: Book direct for the best rates and packages, or through your favorite credit card travel portal.
Hotel ZaZa is a Texas-based boutique chain with four eclectic properties in Dallas, Houston and Austin. In the state’s capital city, ZaZa offers a little something for everyone, from a great 7th-floor pool deck to the ZaSpa, which offers massages, facials and couple’s experiences.
Throughout the hotel, the design offers a little of this and a little of that — in the best way, with bold patterns, vibrant textiles and a philosophy contradicting the age-old saying “less is more.”
In standard guest rooms, expect refined style, plush couches, leather armchairs, a stocked mini-bar and robes. But, for a quirky upgrade, book one of the “Magnificent Seven Suites.” Rooms include the campy Bungalow 6, which feels like a set from “Golden Girls,” and the 880-square-foot “Orient Express,” which serves Agatha Christie novel vibes.
With two great on-site restaurants, it’s easy to eat well at Hotel ZaZa. Meals at Group Therapy start with dishes like crispy calamari and jalapenos or a trio of deviled eggs (hello, caviar) before moving into a sprawling selection of mains like a chicken-fried Wagyu steak po’boy with poblano gravy dip, slow-braised short ribs or pork belly tacos. At Cabana Bar, the poolside bar and eatery, seared ahi tuna tostadas pair perfectly with a frozen pina colada.
Rates at Hotel ZaZa start at $240 per night.
Hotel Magdalena
Austin, Texas, USA
HOTEL MAGDALENA/FACEBOOK
Best for: People who want a boutique taste of Austin’s distinct style, music and culinary offerings.
Why stay here: A converted motor hotel, the Hotel Magdalena is fun, friendly and within walking distance to some of the best shopping in town.
Best way to book: Book direct for the best rates and packages, or through your favorite credit card travel portal.
Bunkhouse really does have a hold on Austin, and Hotel Magdalena is another of the company’s great hotels to consider. At this particular hotel, right off South Congress, guests can enjoy an intimate experience that’s full of fun and culture but without too many other guests considering there are only 89 rooms.
Though the rooms are few, they’re certainly big on character and feature monochromatic bathrooms with bright blue, green or yellow tiles; vintage music photography from Austin’s own Scott Newton; Sferra linens; Sangre de Fruta bath products; and a laid-back but homey aesthetic.
This hotel has many of the staple Bunkhouse amenities, including a killer pool and a fun gift shop with curated products to take home. It’s also pet friendly. There’s a full-service, all-day restaurant, Summer House on Music Lane, plus the Magdalena Bar for drinks and poolside cocktails. But the real star is Equipment Room, a tech-savvy, speak-easy-like basement bar with a focus on good sound, craft cocktails and elevated bar food and a world-class record collection.
Rates at Hotel Magdalena start at $237 per night.
JW Marriott Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
JW MARROTT AUSTIN/FACEBOOK
Best for: Business travelers and Marriott loyalists.
Why stay here: Though Austin is full of quirky boutique hotels, the JW Marriott Austin is a more buttoned-up affair for people in town for business.
Best way to book: Book directly through Marriott to earn or redeem Marriott Bonvoy points and enjoy any elite benefits.
For Marriott Bonvoy loyalists, business travelers or people who want a classy, resort-like property in the heart of downtown, the JW Marriott Austin checks all the boxes. The hotel is the perfect mix of work and play, with well-appointed rooms that feature plush beds, padded armchairs, a desk space to get some work done and then a smart TV to unwind with your favorite shows after.
That’s not all, though. There’s a spa offering curated treatments, massages or facials; an upscale fitness center with tons of workout equipment; and a big pool with chairs and cabanas to lounge on.
If you get hungry, head to one of the hotel’s many bars or restaurants to quell your appetite. There’s the upscale Dean’s Italian Steakhouse, serving Wagyu from Texas and Japan; a popular walk-up burger spot called Burger Bar; a casual Texas-themed restaurant named Corner Restaurant; and a rooftop restaurant.
Rates at JW Marriott Austin start at $237 or 41,000 Marriott Bonvoy points per night.
Summer is almost here, and design professionals are on the move. Read on for BOH’s monthly roundup of arrivals and departures in design, manufacturing, media and throughout the industry.
To the Trade Luxury outdoor furniture brand Brown Jordan announced that Gene Moriarty will step down as president and CEO later this year. During Moriarty’s 18-year tenure, the 78-year-old company has reemerged as a powerhouse designer and manufacturer of indoor and outdoor furniture, introducing award-winning collections, establishing partnerships with several leading designers, expanding and modernizing the manufacturing footprint, and opening four new retail showrooms for the company’s six-brand portfolio. Moriarty remains an equity shareholder of Brown Jordan and will remain CEO until a successor is chosen.
Form Kitchens appointed Beth Brenner as the head of business development. Brenner brings more than 30 years of advertising, sales and marketing experience to the brand, most recently serving as the president of custom cabinet company Semihandmade, where she led a team of 80 people and helped them navigate supply chain issues. In her new role, Brenner will focus on growing the Form Kitchens trade program.
North Carolina–based fabric company Glen Raven announced the retirement of Greg Rosendale, director of indoor and contract markets. Rosendale had an 18-year career at Glen Raven and nearly 40 years industry experience, where he served different roles in the sales, contract and design departments. Market manager Jason Burgess has stepped in to handle Rosendale’s responsibilities, including overseeing sales and customer relationships for the indoor market and working closely with the design, marketing and sales teams.
Montana-based digital textile printing studio and manufacturer Western Sensibility appointed Chelsea von Hasseln as director of surface design and Rio Chantel as director of brand strategy and storytelling. With over a decade of industry experience, von Hasseln specializes in original print development, repeats and colorways, and spent the past 11 years as the community manager for design service companies Pattern Observer and the Textile Design Lab. Chantel brings more than 10 years of experience in photography, multimedia art and brand strategy, and has been doing freelance photography for her own company, Rio Chantel Productions, for the past seven years.
Media & PR After holding several roles in the shelter magazine world since the late 1980s—most recently as senior style director at House Beautiful—Robert Rufino is leaving his full-time role at Hearst Magazines to launch his own business. Rufino’s career as a stylist and tastemaker has included roles at Elle Decor, Architectural Digest, The New York Times Magazine and Harper’s Bazaar; he has also worked in retail design and merchandising, serving as vice president of creative services and visual merchandising for Tiffany & Co. for more than a decade. At House Beautiful, his role included discovering new talent, bringing in interior design projects and producing most of the brand’s photo shoots. He also created a column called The Rufino Report, which featured a curated monthly selection of products and trends. In the next chapter of his career, Rufino will work directly with designers and brands to develop their projects and style them for photography. He will continue to contribute stories to Hearst and hopes to write a book about his career.
New York–based communications and digital marketing agency UpSpring promoted Jana Montero to senior vice president of culture, content and business development. Montero joined the firm 11 years ago after holding editorial roles at Hospitality Design and BizBash magazines. In her new role, she will continue to serve as the company’s editor in chief, lead new business prospecting and engage with the architecture, construction and interior design industries.
Design & Architecture Oklahoma-based interdisciplinary design studio Blue Star Integrative appointed Michal Biery as the firm’s new president and J. Kyle Casper as design director, a new position for the company. Biery brings more than 30 years of experience to the firm, most recently serving as a senior architect at Benham in Oklahoma City after holding other leadership positions at local firms. In his new role, Biery will oversee local operations and collaborate with leadership to set strategic plans, budgets and company goals. Casper, who brings over 25 years of architectural experience from institutions like Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the United Nations, will remain principal of his own 22-year-old firm Casper Design and Development in addition to his new role, which will tap into his background in environmental responsibility and personal connection to Native American culture and communities as a member of the Nansemond Tribal Bass family.
Minneapolis-based architecture and design firm Nelson Worldwide welcomed Brandon Page as the vice president of brand communications and environmental graphic design, and Faith Huddleston as studio leader of lifestyle, wellness and retail at the company’s Cincinnati office. With more than 25 years in the design, brand and retail community, Page has worked across the country with well-known names such as Target, Tiffany & Co., Nike and Home Depot. In his new role, Page will bolster the firm’s creative leadership and strategic development. Huddleston brings over 20 years of experience to the firm, previously working on projects for Neiman Marcus, Bath & Body Works, Starwood Retail Partners and the University of Dayton, and most recently serving as director of creative activation at design services company Tenfold. In her new role, she will be responsible for shaping business growth for Nelson Worldwide throughout Minneapolis and the surrounding region.
London-based design firm Studio Indigo promoted associates Lyne Arbid and Olga Fox to associate directors to co-lead the interior design team. Arbid has been with the company for more than six years, managing the interiors department and overseeing the yachting department. Fox brings over 15 years of industry experience to her new role and has been with the studio since 2022, managing high-profile commercial developments.
San Francisco–based design firm HSH Interiors announced Ainsley Thomson Bowen as senior designer. Bowen most recently worked at Colorado-based Kelly & Stone Architects, where she specialized in large-scale residential projects across North America.
Maryland-based architecture and planning firm Hord Coplan Macht promoted Ilijana Soldan to sustainability manager and lead of the sustainability action team. Soldan brings over five years of architecture experience, most recently working as an architect at North Carolina–based firm Liquid Design before joining HCM three years ago. In her new role, Soldan hopes to bridge the gap between implementing green practices and the practical application in building design.
Seattle-based design collective and hospitality firm The Society announced Casey Scalf as director. Scalf has more than 20 years of experience in the design industry, previously serving as the design principal for Portland-based Ankrom Moisan Architects and most recently as the principal designer at The Society. In his new role, Scalf will focus on strategic leadership, key partnerships, and project selection and execution.
Retail & Manufacturing Appliance manufacturer Fisher & Paykel welcomed Eli Winkler as COO for the U.S. market. Winkler joins the brand from home decor retailer Smith & Noble, where he served as president and previously held leadership roles at globally renowned brands including Sur La Table and La-Z-Boy. In his new role, Winkler will be based out of the headquarters in Costa Mesa, California, and will oversee product operations and teams for both Fisher & Paykel and DCS Appliances.
Amish furniture company DutchCrafters named Tina Marie Carder the showroom manager of the Alpharetta, Georgia, location. Carder has over 11 years of experience in e-commerce and retail store management, most recently serving as the store manager of Dance Fashions Warehouse in Atlanta.
French furniture and interior design firm Liaigre appointed Andy Sich to its New York sales team. Sich has a background in corporate wellness consulting, commercial sales and luxury furniture, most recently serving as an executive sales rep at Avenue Road and Shaw Industries.
California-based reupholstery business Kay Chesterfield hired Rachel Fletcher as the director of operations. Fletcher has more 15 years of experience in upholstery; she is the owner of Knox Upholstery in Knoxville, Tennessee, and has served as president of the National Upholstery Association since 2019. In her new role, Fletcher will oversee production innovations within Kay Chesterfield’s contract reupholstery business and workplace pillows capability.
Furnishings-focused website development company Jola Interactive appointed Shelia Butler as director of operations and Vaughn English as an account manager. Butler brings more than 25 years of experience in the wholesale manufacturing, retail and consulting industries and co-founded two wholesale manufacturing companies, most recently serving as the chief operating officer at Texas-based furniture manufacturer The Arrangement. In her new role, Butler will oversee day-to-day business and work on building customer retention and talent management. English, who brings more than a decade of experience in account management roles, joins the company from advertising services company MediaLab 3D Solutions.
New Jersey–based floor manufacturer Lucida Surfaces promoted Jacob Herzog to regional sales manager. Herzog has been with the company for the past four years, growing his sales skills and in-depth knowledge of its products and services. As a regional sales manager, Herzog will lead and mentor the sales team and oversee the North Jersey and New York regions.
Industry Organizations The International Society of Furniture Designers elected 12 new industry colleagues to serve on its board of directors. Liz Moore, furniture designer at Otto & Moore, will continue as the chairperson of the board; Steve Wilcox, president at Furnishings Design Inc., will remain as the ISFD president; and Jack Hendrix, partner at accounting firm Hendrix Barney & Co., will stay on as the treasurer, assisting executive director David Blair as part of the executive team. New board members include Melanie Boggs, founder of Brian Boggs Chairmakers; Matthew Carr, owner of furniture design and production business Carr House LLC; Scott Coley, lead designer and owner of D. Scott Coley Designs; Joe Dunaske, a designer at Stickley Furniture; Annina Fremgen, a designer at Caracole; Tammy C. Nagem, president and CEO of High Point Market Authority; Jake Hanson, a designer and engineer at L. & J.G. Stickley Inc.; Shannon Lookabill, vice president of product development at Universal Furniture; Cory Martin, a designer at Bernhardt Furniture Company; John Muldoon, owner of North Carolina–based retailer CohabSpace; Fred Schubert, director of product development at Global Home USA and owner of Fred Schubert Design Inc.; and Frederic Spector, owner of Frederic Spector Design Studio.
Real estate network and nonprofit education and research organization Urban Land Institute appointed Diane Hoskins as global chair for the next two years. Hoskins is currently the co-chief executive officer of architecture and planning firm Gensler. In her new role, Hoskins will help support real estate professionals in solving land-use challenges and educate others on the best practices for equitable and sustainable land use.
The all-inclusive resort space can be a little confusing, as the brands aren’t always as well known as, say, a Hyatt Regency or Park Hyatt.
We’re here to change that with this collection of our favorite Hyatt all-inclusive resorts.
The company’s all-inclusive resort footprint grew exponentially in recent years thanks to a $2.7 billion acquisition of Apple Leisure Group, the owner of brands like Secrets and Dreams. However, Hyatt also has all-inclusive resort options from before this takeover, with offerings like the Alila Ventana Big Sur, the Ziva and Zilara brands and even Park Hyatt’s posh outpost in the Maldives.
Ready to pack your bags? We sure are.
Alila Ventana Big Sur
Big Sur, California, USA
ALILA VENTANA BIG SUR/FACEBOOK
Best for: Romantic weekends away or disconnecting in nature while surrounded by world-class amenities.
Why stay here: Alila Ventana Big Sur is arguably one of the best Hyatt properties in North America, perhaps even the world, thanks to its one-of-a-kind location in California’s coastal redwood groves and the value you can get from your Hyatt points.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark for elitelike perks and on-property credits, or book using World of Hyatt points for one of the best redemptions in the program. It’s also available through American Express’ Fine Hotels + Resorts and Chase’s Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection, where you can get valuable perks like credits to use on the property, room upgrades and late checkout, depending on the program.
Consider Alila Ventana Big Sur the grande dame of Hyatt resorts (and points redemptions) in the U.S.
Perched off the Pacific Coast Highway about a half-hour south of San Francisco, the West Coast resort is the pinnacle of all-inclusive luxury travel with a dose of seclusion. Alila Ventana Big Sur only features 59 guest rooms and suites, as well as 15 tented cabins spread out across 150 acres.
Travelers may not typically associate Hyatt’s Alila brand with “all-inclusive” like you would with Zilara or Secrets. However, the California resort includes all meals and snacks with a nightly room rate. Alcoholic beverages are sold separately.
The vibe is glitzy glamping, with a lot of wood paneling and working fireplaces in guest rooms and suites. Leather chairs and earth tones complement the California redwood forest outside.
Head to The Sur House, Alila Ventana Big Sur’s main restaurant, for breakfast and dinner with a Pacific Ocean view and locally sourced ingredients. Lunch can be delivered poolside to your chaise lounge. Spa Alila is a must-splurge, with alfresco treatments offered from outdoor cabanas — clarify and cleanse with an 80-minute facial or unwind in a copper soaking tub with an impeccable view of the redwoods beyond. The great outdoors were never so decadent.
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Rates start at $1,969 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Miraval Berkshires
Lenox, Massachusetts, USA
MIRAVAL BERKSHIRES/MIRAVAL
Best for: Couples who simply need to unwind.
Why stay here: This luxury wellness retreat is the place to trade the fast pace of the modern world for a tranquil retreat … and use Hyatt points to do it.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark for elitelike perks and on-property credits or book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem points. Go through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts for extra perks like guaranteed late checkout and a $100 property credit.
This luxe wellness retreat exudes a contemporary atmosphere in Massachusetts’ otherwise rustic, woodsy Berkshires region. Miraval Berkshires is a magnet for city dwellers (it’s driveable from New York City and Boston) looking for a little R&R — but perhaps without all the dietary (and drinking) limitations of other wellness retreats in the area. Keep in mind: While alcohol is served at Miraval, it is not included in your nightly rate like all other food and drinks.
Sleek, clean and bright designs dominate throughout the resort, including the modern Carriage House suites and Cottages. However, the 10 recently renovated rooms and suites found in the Wyndhurst Mansion are a worthy splurge. Named for legendary artists and prominent families of the Gilded Age, suites include the Vanderbilt Suite (the largest, as you might expect) and the cozier Wharton and Hawthorne rooms — all include modern fixtures and furnishings and upgraded bathrooms. Larger rooms and suites include decorative fireplaces, which are great for unwinding and reflecting following a day of treatments.
Speaking of treatments, the Life in Balance Spa at Miraval Berkshires is a major draw and, at 29,000 square feet, a focal point of the entire resort. We’re fans of the 80-minute Manuka Honey Quench body treatment to give the skin some ultraluxurious moisturization and glow.
TPG loved the food and beverage offerings at Miraval when we checked in. 1894 Restaurant, named for the year Wyndhurst Mansion wrapped construction, is the resort’s fine dining option serving a four-course tasting menu that features scrumptious offerings like Maine lobster risotto and Hudson Valley duck.
Rates start at $804 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos
San Jose del Cabo, Baja California Sur, Mexico
HYATT ZIVA LOS CABOS/FACEBOOK
Best for: Families wanting an upscale and memorable experience where everything is taken care of for you.
Why stay here: Hyatt’s Ziva brand is one of the best all-inclusive experiences money (or points) can buy.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points.
Fun in the sun is easy to access at Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, on the outskirts of San Jose del Cabo but only a 20-minute drive from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) in Mexico.
While Ziva is the family-friendly option of Hyatt’s Ziva and Zilara all-inclusive brand siblings, TPG found the property to have plenty of options for visitors of all ages (including those who are looking for a little more seclusion away from children).
Guest rooms and suites fit the Baja California feel with terracotta tiles, light decor and dark wood accents. Ocean views are a must, and the Master Suite tier of rooms affords extra space as well as Hyatt club-level amenities.
On the food front, TPG recommends the poolside bars, which serve up delicious fish tacos and ceviche with service that is both friendly and fast. Bon Vivant, the resort’s French restaurant, is another winner with salad nicoise and duck breast — and it’s worth splurging on the wine list that isn’t part of the all-inclusive offering.
Rates start at $320 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Hyatt Ziva Cancun
Cancun, Mexico
HYATT ZIVA CANCUN/FACEBOOK
Best for: Teens with a sweet tooth.
Why stay here: The resort has a teens club with virtual reality experiences and an array of water sports, plus a candy room that’s part of the all-inclusive rates.
Best way to book: Book directly with World of Hyatt.
Family-friendly Cancun might not be as stunning as Hyatt Ziva Cancun, an all-inclusive resort with spectacular views and sprawling beaches in the heart of Cancun. Don’t miss the expansive pool deck with chaise lounges, swim-up bars and hot tubs.
TPG favors rooms in the Ziva’s 17-floor Club Tower, which includes the hotel’s guest rooms and suites with Hyatt Ziva Club access. Ziva Club access includes things like private check-in and checkout and personalized concierge services. While the resort is family-friendly, couples will likely want to look into a stay in the adults-only Turquoize Tower. The Turquoize building includes rooms and suites with extras like private infinity pools or hot tubs.
The dining lineup is extensive, to put it mildly. A few of our favorites include El Mercado, Hyatt Ziva Cancun’s all-day buffet, and Pasteles, a dessert parlor to satisfy the sweetest of sweet teeth. Food carts even regularly circle the pool, so if you leave here hungry, it’s your own fault. The alcohol selection is also surprisingly highbrow for an all-inclusive resort and features spirits like Johnnie Walker Black whisky, Belvedere vodka and Don Julio tequila.
Rates start at $460 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall
Montego Bay, Jamaica
HYATT ZILARA ROSE HALL/PARK HYATT
Best for: Couples looking for a traditional all-inclusive experience where they can redeem points.
Why stay here: Stay here if you’re craving a classic sun, sea and sand getaway with a warm Jamaican welcome and access to an array of amenities.
Best way to book: Book the Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall directly on Hyatt’s website to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and take advantage of elite status benefits.
Hyatt made a major push into all-inclusive resorts in recent years, but one of TPG’s favorites has been around since the more recent expansion. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall manages to feel secluded yet is mere minutes from Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ).
This adults-only resort features attentive service, a slew of amenities and a litany of dining options that makes this one of TPG’s favorite all-inclusive resorts. Guest rooms and suites offer airy, light environs perfect for a seaside vacation — we particularly love the swim-up suites. The Grand Butler Suite with personalized butler service is an ideal splurge for those looking for particularly attentive care.
On the activity front, spend time ranging from a plunge in the resort’s three-level pool to getting adventurous with surfing on Montego Bay. Hyatt Zilara Rose Hall’s spa features treatment rooms and a beachside cabana to indulge in a massage on the waterfront. Who doesn’t love getting rid of knots with crashing waves serenading you?
Dining options can satisfy a wide variety of taste buds. The resort’s upscale French restaurant, Petit Pariz, is ideal for a romantic date night, while Jamaican RootZ by HoriZons is great for all-day alfresco dining with a waterfront view.
Rates start at $492 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Zoëtry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya
Riviera Maya, Mexico
ZOETRY PARAISO DE LA BONITA RIVI
Best for: Travelers wanting the ease of an all-inclusive resort without too much of a party scene.
Why stay here: Splurge on an oceanfront Butler Suite for a tailor-made experience with gorgeous views steps from the sand.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
If you’re a little confused by the various all-inclusive brands under the Hyatt umbrella these days, have no fear. Zoetry is an all-inclusive brand targeting “holistic experiences” with “exceptional service.” Basically, you will almost certainly leave feeling pampered and more in tune with your wellness-oriented self.
Zoetry Paraiso de la Bonita Riviera Maya is one of our favorite ways to do just that. The Riviera Maya resort features a remarkable stretch of beach and attentive service, luxe accommodations and dining options galore. Tranquility is the name of the game here: less bottomless-well vodka and disco and more top-shelf liquor and soothing guitar music to ocean sounds.
Rooms and suites are sprawling. The resort’s smallest room is 800 square feet (essentially, the size of a two-bedroom apartment). Oceanfront views are a mainstay, as well as indoor-outdoor layouts, private balconies and decor featuring local art.
On the dining front, be sure to indulge in the fresh grilled seafood with waterfront views at El Chiringuito or the top-rated international cuisine at La Canoa, which is also known for its wine list (available at an added cost beyond the all-inclusive rate).
Of course, the holistic brand standard that Zoetry is known for, the Thalasso Center & Spa, is the draw here. Signature offerings include a Temazcal ancestral treatment to cleanse mind, body and soul, and a simpler Mayan massage encompassing cup treatment and reflexology.
Rates start at $396 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa
Cancun, Mexico
SECRETS RIVIERA CANCUN RESORT & SPA
Best for: A stylish getaway a little removed from the action of Cancun.
Why stay here: Each of the resort’s luxurious rooms comes with a private terrace or patio with either a hot tub or swim-up pool.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Sure, the white sandy beaches and swim-up bars are love at first sight for a place like Secrets Riviera Cancun Resort & Spa. But shouldn’t your all-inclusive resort offer so much more? Secrets, an adults-only all-inclusive resort brand, certainly delivers in Cancun.
This all-suite resort manages to feel a little more secluded and cozy than you’d expect from an all-inclusive resort. Secrets Riviera Cancun guest rooms include private balconies and terraces with either hot tubs or swim-out access.
Activities abound, with kayaking, parasailing, windsurfing and snorkeling as just a few select offerings on the outdoor lineup. Be sure to refuel at the wide array of restaurant offerings, including Picante, the resort’s gourmet Mexican restaurant, and Coquette, an a la carte French restaurant.
Rates start at $485 or 25,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Breathless Punta Cana
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
BREATHLESS PUNTA CANA/FACEBOOK
Best for: Adults who want to be lazy in the sun then turn it up with live music and DJs.
Why stay here: At Breathless you get the perfect mix of a relaxing vacation with high-energy social elements.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn and redeem points.
All-inclusive resorts in the Dominican Republic might conjure images of the loud spring break crowd, but that’s not exactly the vibe at Breathless Punta Cana Resort & Spa.
The sprawling property is a favorite for its expansive suites and Xhale Club, a VIP offering with more personalized service for those staying in this category of suites. All suites feature balconies with private hot tubs, while some feature swim-up pool access from their terraces.
The restaurant lineup is extensive, with 11 restaurants and eight bars to indulge in. The Barefoot Grill serves beachside staples like burgers and grilled fish under the sun, while the Mediterranean-influenced Kibbeh restaurant is perfect for date night.
Carve out some me-time at the Relax Spa by Pevonia — the Sun Lover’s Facial is a must after a busy day lounging by the pool.
Rates start at $247 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Dreams Dominicus La Romana
Dominican Republic
DREAMS DOMINICUS LA ROMANA/FACEBOOK
Best for: Those looking for an elevated all-inclusive getaway — you won’t find any wristband requirements here.
Why stay here: Beautiful beaches and spacious rooms and suites (all with private balconies and some with private pools) will lead to true R&R during your stay.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Dreams is the more family-oriented of the all-inclusive brands Hyatt acquired amid the Apple Leisure Group takeover. Dreams Dominicus La Romana is a traveler favorite thanks to its gorgeous beach location and plenty of poolside and waterfront chaise lounges. (We aren’t saying you won’t compete to nab a chair each day, but at least there are plenty from which to pick.)
When we say there’s something for everyone here, we mean it: Rooms and suites range from spacious garden-view rooms with private balconies, canopy beds and elegant bathrooms to expansive three-bedroom suites geared toward families. There are also swim-up suites and even a honeymoon suite with a private hot tub and hammock.
Both buffets win out at Dreams: There are lively cooking displays at World Cafe, and the club level-only Flying Fish buffet is a more exclusive all-you-can-eat feast. Dance the night away at Desires, the resort’s lounge and nightclub.
Rates start at $343 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino
Willemstad, Curacao
SUNSCAPE CURACAO RESORT SPA & CASINO
Best for: Families looking for a variety of activities for all ages.
Why stay here: Plenty of pools, a calm beach and a plethora of activities (including an indulgent spa) make Sunscape a choose-your-own adventure kind of resort.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Sunscape Curacao Resort, Spa & Casino is a swimmers delight thanks to its beach with protected waters for swimming and snorkeling. That’s only the beginning of the fun at this kid-friendly, all-inclusive resort. Paddleboarding and diving with the family or trying your hand with Lady Luck at the on-site casino are all part of a normal day here.
Guest rooms and suites are affordable and come with a garden view or a Caribbean Sea view (we prefer the latter). Consider upgrading to the resort’s Sun Club for nicer suites, lounge access and more personalized service.
Bluewater Grill, the resort’s international restaurant, is an ideal spot for dinner with views of the sea. Head to Oceana Restaurant for more Curacao flavors with your seafood.
Unwind with a treatment at the Sunscape Spa by Pevonia, which offers aromatherapeutic salt scrubs and a variety of massage options amid a wide-ranging treatment menu.
Rates start at $365 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Dreams Onyx Resort and Spa
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
DREAMS ONYX RESORT & SPA/FACEBOOK
Best for: Families craving fun in the sun and variety in pools (there are five to pick from).
Why stay here: Make it a family reunion and book the two-bedroom family suite, which can sleep up to 10 people.
Best way to book: Book directly with Hyatt to earn or redeem World of Hyatt points and enjoy any elite benefits.
Pool lovers, rejoice. Dreams Onyx Resort & Spa has plenty of options for you — five pools, to be exact.
There are two infinity pools and even a saltwater kids pool to keep the little ones busy. Don’t miss out on the resort’s expansive beach, an ideal place to read a book on the chaise lounge under a thatched umbrella — who doesn’t love finishing a juicy chapter amid a sea breeze?
The resort has a wide range of room and suite options, but all accommodations feature a hot tub on a private terrace or balcony and complimentary minibar as part of the all-inclusive rate. Consider a splurge to a nicer pool or ocean-view junior suite, or go the extra mile with an upgrade to the Preferred Club. This level of suites includes a personal concierge, lounge access and Preferred Club-only pools, bars and restaurants.
Varied activities are at guests’ fingertips here, including a free introductory scuba lesson, kids and teens clubs and several restaurants. Mercure is a delicious French brasserie. SandBar is our favorite spot for a margarita on the beach.
Rates start at $289 or 17,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Miraval Arizona
Tucson, Arizona, USA
MIRAVAL ARIZONA/JAMES BAIGRIE/FACEBOOK
Best for: Health-conscious travelers looking for a luxurious desert-meets-mountains retreat.
Why stay here: A nonstop calendar of classes to invigorate the mind and body, plus top-notch amenities and a fantastic World of Hyatt points redemption value make this property an excellent option for adults.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to earn World of Hyatt points while enjoying elitelike benefits such as upgrades based on availability and on-property credits.
Go west, young man — and indulge in one luxurious spa.
Miraval Arizona brings luxe wellness accommodations to the desert and does it with flying colors. This TPG favorite will have you feeling like a celebrity in no time from all the scrumptious dining, pampering, treatments and activities.
Guest rooms and suites deliver Wild West chic with a clean design and fluffy beds. (Go ahead, jump on it — we won’t tell.) Larger rooms include private patios or outdoor showers and fire pits. Splurge more and enjoy suites with crackling fireplaces and views of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The ultimate indulgence is Miraval’s seven villas (ideal for families or larger groups) and retreats for better indoor-outdoor flow (dine under the stars or enjoy an indoor-to-outdoor shower — why choose?).
Miraval Arizona’s Life in Balance Spa is a draw for its decadent treatments, like a 50-minute Cara Vida facial (a resort exclusive) that features cold-pressed chia seeds and local Arizona honey. Check out the Cactus Flower Restaurant, the resort’s main dining spot, for specials like squash curry and a vegan chorizo tostada. For carnivores, the Coyote Moon Burger is also scrumptious.
Rates start at $874 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
HYATT ZILARIA CAP CANA/HYATT
Best for: Travelers who want plenty of action, tropical vibes and a dose of romance.
Why stay here: An accessible Caribbean retreat, this property is an especially good value if you have World of Hyatt points to redeem.
Best way to book: Book the Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana directly on Hyatt’s website to earn or redeem points and take advantage of elite benefits.
Travelers craving an adults-only, all-inclusive resort experience won’t be disappointed in the least with a stay at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, as TPG discovered on a recent trip to the Dominican Republic.
We found it to be a little more highbrow than the typical all-inclusive experience, and we’re not complaining. The contemporary design, massive pools and sprawling beach are all selling points. Who doesn’t love to sip a morning mimosa amid well-manicured greenery and stone walkways heading to the turquoise sea? Luxury and all-inclusive aren’t mutually exclusive.
Rooms and suites are expansive, bright and (whether you like it or not) feature open rainfall showers. Swim-up and oceanfront suites add a little more connected action to your fun-in-the-sun getaway while the largest Presidential and Club Ocean View Master suites include huge balconies with waterfront views and entertaining spaces. Don’t forget the free minibar with snacks and sips like Presidente beers and Pringles.
On the restaurant front, Shutters Beachside serves breakfast (grab your morning egg frittata and crabcake and get a head start on claiming your chaise lounge for the day). Brando’s is the spot for an over-the-top dinner. Tahitian cru ceviche and grilled shrimp in a coconut and vanilla sauce received top marks after our dinner.
Poolside lounging might be the easiest way to spend time at Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana, but you can check out other activities like aqua-cycling and trying out Canapolis Water Park at the neighboring, family-friendly Hyatt Ziva property (accessible to all Zilara guests). A more relaxing endeavor comes at the Larimar Spa, featuring marquee treatments like a 90-minute body wrap that uses Dominican noni fruit.
Rates start at $444 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
SECRETS MOXCHE PLAYA DEL CARMEN/FACEBOOK
Best for: Active couples and night owls who prefer to look beyond their hotel for entertainment.
Why stay here: Comfortable suites, plentiful amenities and all the energy of Playa del Carmen a short drive away.
Best way to book: Redeem or accrue points by booking directly with Hyatt.
Consider Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen Hyatt’s latest show pony for all-inclusive resorts. The company CEO name-checked it in a recent earnings call and even hosted a companywide investor event there this spring to show off the recently opened resort — including the ultraluxury Secrets Impression Moxche resort-within-a-resort.
Secrets Moxche is known for its luxurious atmosphere, natural decor and impressive oceanfront views. The Secrets Impression resort within the overall Secrets property indulges guests with fresh seafood served beachside and complimentary poolside beds (complete with a curtain for when you need privacy … either from the sun or other guests).
The main resort features large guest rooms and suites with private terraces and balconies, contemporary furniture, and indoor-outdoor layouts fit for travelers looking to sunbathe or read inside to the tune of crashing waves outdoors.
On the pool front, Secrets offers a variety of options, like a lagoon pool complete with a sandy beach and The Cove beach bar. Other options include more private cenote-style pools and the main swimming area, complete with a swim-up bar you might expect from an all-inclusive resort.
Dining ranges from the Market Cafe buffet or room service to start the day to Suki, the resort’s sushi and teppanyaki restaurant.
Rates start at $538 or 35,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa
North Huvadhoo, Maldives
PARK HYATT MALDIVES HADAHAA
Best for: The ultraluxury traveler who requires total seclusion and pristine beaches.
Why stay here: The Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa’s three-bedroom Overwater Reef Residence is a must-book for travelers seeking a palatial stay as close to the water as possible.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits.
The Maldives conjures images of a bucket list trip, but the Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa is perhaps one of the most bucket list-iest of bucket list resorts on the island nation.
The newest and biggest splurge at the resort is the recently added three-bedroom Overwater Reef Residence, which spans nearly 10,000 square feet and includes views of the Indian Ocean and a private infinity pool. Your private chef and, yes, the resort’s Vidhun Spa will come to you for any treatments you might desire (a massage feels all the more indulgent from your private terrace, no?).
Other accommodations vary from overwater bungalows to more woodsy offerings on the Park Hyatt’s island. It goes without saying: The pool area and beach both provide ample opportunities to make the Instagram and TikTok followers jealous, TPG noted when we checked in.
While Park Hyatt isn’t traditionally a Hyatt brand associated with the all-inclusive resort sector, we’re including it here because the resort does offer an all-inclusive package that includes all meals and select alcoholic beverages.
All-inclusive rates start at $1,290 per night.
Miraval Austin
Austin, Texas, USA
SUMMER HULL/THE POINTS GUY
Best for: An ultraluxurious tune-up for the mind, body and soul in the heart of Texas.
Why stay here: When you want to do a little self-care, it’s always best to let the pampering Miraval team take care of everything else for the duration of your stay.
Best way to book: Book through our partner Skylark to enjoy elitelike benefits and on-property credits; or reserve through American Express Fine Hotels + Resorts for value-added benefits like upgrades and late checkout based on availability, plus on-property statement credits.
Head to the Texas Hill Country for a little R&R with a side of luxury at Miraval Austin.
The Hyatt resort brand, known for all things wellness, beckons travelers with its stunning property with views of Lake Travis and the surrounding Texas hills. Tranquility is the name of the game here, TPG discovered when we checked in. From meditation channels on the guest room televisions to a Himalayan singing bowl and Miraval Zen-branded amenities, the odds are probably low that you’ll leave here stressed.
Miraval Austin is popular, so book treatments and fitness classes well ahead of check-in, as those can fill up quickly and in advance. Can’t make it into the stress solutions class? Fear not. There are plenty of other offerings like archery, cooking classes and “Tex Zen” yoga. Get it? Whoever said you couldn’t be funny and health-conscious is sorely mistaken.
The Miraval Life in Balance Spa is a major draw for guests looking to indulge in treatments ranging from 100-minute body renewal rituals (complete with ginger grass and bamboo scrubs and cherry-blossom rice buffing) to an 80-minute Moroccan Coffee Blossom pedicure.
Gourmet lovers will be ready to book their next stay after a visit to Hilltop Crossings, the resort’s main restaurant featuring a mix of local ingredients and wellness-geared dishes — from sirloin raised at Texas’ own 44 Farms to hempseed meatballs.
After a busy day of activities, treatments and treats, head back to your room and soak all the Texas Hill Country glory in from the privacy of your own balcony. This is a rejuvenating resort at its finest.
Rates start at $709 or 40,000 World of Hyatt points per night.
Lately, my dad’s been praising the benefits of having a health savings account. This year, he had the opportunity to get the most of his HSA — bad news for his health, but good news for his wallet (side note: Dad is now doing OK health-wise). If you have one or are considering one, here are all the HSA pros and cons to consider.
But first, if you are looking for the 2016 and 2017 annual contribution limits for HSAs, here you go:
2016: $3,350 if you’re an individual and $6,750 if you’re saving for a family.
2017: $3,400 if you’re an individual and remains unchanged at $6,750 for families.
I’ve spent time researching, calculating and mulling over whether an HSA is the best option for me. After a few conversations with Dad, I decided to put together a pro and con list to help me both understand HSAs and decide if I should open one.
First, the basics:
What is an HSA?
An HSA is a highly tax-advantaged account that lets you save money for health-related expenses. It’s essentially like an IRA or a savings account for your health. And, after you turn 65, it’s even more similar to an IRA, because you can take out money for non-health expenses.
Who Can Get an HSA?
An HSA is always tied to a High Deductible Health Plan, or HDHP, and many will get them through work. A survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation revealed its mostly larger employers that offer HSAs: Fifty-two percent of firms with 1,000 or more workers offered this type of plan while only 25% of firms with 3 to 199 workers did. What’s most important to know here is that you can’t have an HSA if your health care comes from an HMO or a PPO — it has to be a high-deductible health plan. The IRS defines HDHPs this way:
“For calendar year 2016, a ‘high deductible health plan’ is … a health plan with an annual deductible that is not less than $1,300 for self-only coverage or $2,600 for family coverage, and the annual out-of-pocket expenses (deductibles, co-payments, and other amounts, but not premiums) do not exceed $6,550 for self-only coverage or $13,100 for family coverage.”
This should not be confused with a flexible spending account or FSA which can be used in conjunction with a traditional HMO or PPO.
Related >> Readers share their experiences with HSAs
Pros of Opening an HSA
Flexibility of Uses
You can use money from your HSA to pay for a slew of health expenses, from contact lenses to acupuncture, mental healthcare or a midwife. You might be surprised at some of the things you can buy with your HSA money. HSA Center has a complete list of eligible purchases.
Tax Incentives
The money you put in the HSA is tax-deductible. Also, the money you withdraw isn’t federally taxed, as long as you spend it on approved, health-related stuff. The HSA’s interest income isn’t federally taxed, either.
No ‘Use-It-or-Lose-It”
Unlike a Flexible Spending Arrangement or FSA, dollars in your HSA can rollover year to year.
You can Earn Interest
I think the amount of interest I earned recently was something like six bucks. So my initial reaction is whoop de do, but my frugal side reminds me that every little bit helps.
Responsible Planning
The most obvious benefit of the HSA is that you’re funding the future. You’re being responsible. The HSA is an emergency fund for your health.
You Can Take It With You
With an HSA, you can take your balance with you if you leave a company. And if you really hit tough times, you can even withdraw the HSA money to pay for non-health expenses. Of course, you’ll be taxed on that — plus, you’ll pay a penalty.
Related >> Health insurance options for the self employed
Retirement Advantage
After age 65, you can use your HSA savings as retirement money. You’re free to spend it, penalty free, on non-health expenses.
Free Preventive Procedures
Wellness procedures — breast exams, cancer screenings — are usually not subject to the HSA-compatible plan’s deductible. Those office visits are covered before the deductible, and often, they’re free. Of course, many traditional insurance plans have that same benefit.
Cons of Opening an HSA
Restrictions
There are limits to how much you can save. For 2016, you can only sock away $3,350 if you’re an individual and $6,750 if you’re saving for a family. In 2017, the contribution limit rise to $3,400 if you’re an individual and remains unchanged at $6,750 for families. Also, you can’t use money from your HSA to pay for your health insurance premium — unless you’re unemployed.
Cost of Office Visits and Prescriptions
I compared my traditional Blue Shield plan with their HSA-compatible plan, an HDHP. With the HSA, I’d be responsible for paying the full amount of doctors’ visits and prescriptions — until I met the deductible. But the deductible is $6,000 — I’m probably not going to reach that. If I have a couple of non-preventive office visits and prescription expenses a year, the HSA plan would end up costing me several hundred bucks.
Compared to my traditional plan, which requires that I pay $35/visit and $10/prescription (before the deductible), I could actually be spending more for the HSA plan — even considering the tax savings. I suppose it depends on what health issues arise and how much I’m willing to contribute.
Fees
Unsurprisingly, like any other bank account, an HSA comes with its share of fees. They vary, but from my research, most seem to have a start-up fee, transaction fee, debit fee, and in some cases, a monthly maintenance fee. Some may even have a minimum account balance fee.
State Tax
Even though the federal government allows deductions of HSA contributions, a few states don’t follow suit. Please check on your state’s policy before making any decisions on the tax merits of an HSA. Here’s one list of HSA policies by state to consider.
Not Meeting the Deductible
In all, the health expenses you may have to pay with an HSA plan could outweigh the tax savings. For example, one reader mentioned that the amount he pays in his prescriptions for the year makes the HSA not worth it. If the deductible isn’t being met, I can understand that. This seems to be one of those “it depends on the situation” scenarios.
But of course, it’s not just about tax incentives — the point of the HSA is also to save for the future. In the end, that seems to be what it comes down to, whether you’re using an emergency fund or an account with tax incentives. In my dad’s simple but shrewd words: “The bottom line is: save, save, save — as much as possible. Trust me, you will need it .”
If you’ve passed on an HSA, why wasn’t it worth it to you?
When your finances start to spiral and it becomes increasingly difficult to keep up with credit card payments or build toward financial goals, switching your payment method temporarily to cash or debit could help.
Spending with credit cards can stimulate the brain’s reward center and drive you to make more purchases, according to a recent study by MIT Sloan School of Management. The 2021 study had a small sample size of 28 participants, but other research also finds that people are likely to spend more with credit cards. However, it is possible to avoid overspending and the costs of interest charges on outstanding debt by using cash instead.
A vacation from credit card spending isn’t for everyone, though. If you want to preserve your credit scores, you’ll still need to keep zero-balance credit cards open and active with small recurring purchases such as paying for streaming service subscriptions or other similar transactions. Issuers may close inactive accounts, which can cause credit scores to drop.
By not piling new purchases on your credit cards, making more progress on debt or savings is possible. If you need a sign to determine if this course is right for you, here are some instances when shifting your spending to cash or debit can make sense.
1. You frequently overspend in certain categories
You might not need to go cold turkey on your credit card spending. If you tend to overspend only in specific categories, consider setting aside a fixed amount of cash or funds on your debit card to cover those expenses. For those purchases that don’t lead your budget astray, continue using a credit card and paying it off in full every month to avoid interest charges.
If, however, you usually overspend across multiple categories, using only cash may help you stay on track.
2. You’re an emotional or impulsive spender
You may not be aware that you’re an emotional or impulsive spender. However, it’s possible to get an idea by reviewing credit card statements and reflecting on the reasons behind the purchases, says LaQueshia Clemons, a financial therapist at Freedom Life Therapy and Wellness in Connecticut.
“When you get upset or whenever you’re emotional, this may be when you find yourself on Amazon or going to the mall,” Clemons says. “As a way to avoid negative feelings, you may find yourself buying items because this can give you a euphoric feeling to replace the negative emotions.”
If you realize you might be in this category after reviewing your purchases, stop spending with credit cards and analyze your financial habits, she says.
You might also consider meeting with a financial therapist if it’s difficult to accomplish financial goals or you’re in a continuous cycle of debt. The Financial Therapy Association has a directory to help you find a professional.
3. You can’t see a way out of debt
If your credit cards are maxed out or you’re struggling to keep up with minimum payments, it’s time to come up with a strategy to pay off the debt.
After several layoffs early in her career, Aileen Luib, a digital content creator based in California, says she had to rely on credit cards to get by. Her combined balances grew to $10,000 by 2015, putting a wrench in her plans, so she came up with a new one.
“I was doing a lot of different things to rack in the money and chip away at that debt as quickly as I could,” Luib says. “I was kind of tapping into my skill sets to start scraping up money in little corners of my life, and it all added up.”
Luib says she also used a balance transfer to consolidate debt from several credit cards onto one with a lower interest rate, and she didn’t add new purchases to the card. With these tactics, she says she paid off her balance in 2017.
Balance transfers typically require a good credit score of 690 or higher. The ideal balance transfer card will have an interest-free window long enough to pay off debt, no annual fee, and a balance transfer fee of 3% or lower. To determine if a transfer is worth it, consider whether the balance transfer fee costs less than what you’re projected to pay in interest charges on the current credit card. (An online interest calculator can help.) You’ll also make more progress on the debt if you stop putting new purchases on credit cards.
With less-than-ideal credit, you still have options if it’s becoming increasingly difficult to meet payments. Consider meeting with a counselor from a nonprofit credit counseling agency. They aren’t mental health professionals, but they can offer financial guidance and help you determine whether you qualify for a debt management plan that consolidates debt into a single payment with a lower interest rate. Your credit cards may be closed if you enroll in this plan, so expect to shift to cash or debit to cover expenses.
This article was written by NerdWallet and was originally published by The Associated Press.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
This post was updated June 2023
With most rentals, the phrase, “all utilities included” means the building or landlord pays for water, sewer, trash, electric, heat, and gas. One of the best ways to keep your housing budget in check and predictable is to rent an apartment with all utilities included. Read more…
Baystate Apartments
1701 Massachusetts Ave NW Washington, DC 20036
Are you in search of apartment features that evoke a sense of storytelling and capture the essence of a captivating book? Look no further than The Baystate, where we offer stunning studio apartments in various floor plans. What’s more, all utilities are included, relieving you of any worries about additional bills.
Situated in the vibrant Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington, DC, The Baystate places you just two blocks away from a world of local culture and flavors. Immerse yourself in the fascinating surroundings and discover the hidden gems that await. Plus, with the convenience of the Red Line Metro within walking distance, the entire city of Washington, DC becomes easily accessible for exploration.
At The Baystate, you’ll find subtle touches of extraordinary in your everyday life. Indulge in the charm of our thoughtfully designed apartments, where every corner tells a unique story. Experience the convenience of having all utilities included, providing you with a hassle-free living experience. Allow yourself to be enchanted by the enchanting allure of The Baystate.
2800 Woodley
2800 Woodley Ave NW Washington, DC 20008
Welcome to 2800 Woodley, where you’ll find a variety of large floor plans designed to suit your lifestyle. Each apartment offers ample closet space, central air conditioning, and stunning hardwood floors that exude elegance. The unique touches, including expansive windows and a secretarial desk, add a touch of charm to your new home.
Nestled on a tranquil side-street, 2800 Woodley provides a serene living environment while being just steps away from the vibrant heart of Woodley Park. Immerse yourself in the neighborhood’s captivating ambiance, with a plethora of popular restaurants and trendy shops within easy walking distance. If you’re in the mood for a change of scenery, simply hop on the Metro from the nearby Woodley Park station, and the entire city of D.C. is at your fingertips.
2800 Woodley offers the perfect blend of convenience and comfort, making city living a breeze. Enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings while relishing the easy access to all that Washington, D.C. has to offer. Experience the best of both worlds at 2800 Woodley.
Brunswick House
1414 17th St NW Washington, DC 20036
Cambridge Square Apartments
4909 Battery Lane Bethesda, MD 20814
As Downtown Bethesda flourishes, Cambridge Square stands proudly at the center of it all, offering a hidden gem of a property nestled against a tranquil park setting. Immerse yourself in the array of new and exciting shopping and dining options that surround you, while enjoying the utmost convenience.
Cambridge Square presents an effortless commute to Washington, D.C. via the nearby Bethesda Metro Station, connecting you seamlessly to the heart of the capital. Whether you seek the bustling energy of the city or the tranquility of nature, Cambridge Square caters to your desires.
Discover the spacious and affordable one, two, three, and four-bedroom apartment homes available for rent at Cambridge Square. Each thoughtfully designed floor plan features large walk-in closets and elegant hardwood flooring, offering both functionality and style.
Experience the perfect blend of convenience, affordability, and comfort at Cambridge Square. Embrace the dynamic growth of Downtown Bethesda while enjoying the peaceful retreat of your home. Cambridge Square invites you to indulge in the best that this thriving community has to offer.
Hampton Courts
2013 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Hampton Courts, a meticulously crafted architectural masterpiece constructed in 1926. This historic building exudes the allure of early 20th-century design, captivating you with its elegant appeal.
At Hampton Courts, modern amenities blend seamlessly with classic architecture. The building features two elevators for your convenience, a controlled intercom entrance ensuring security, and a well-equipped laundry room with a convenient card payment system.
Indulge in the comfort of our studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments, where updated appliances and spacious floor plans await. Each residence combines the essence of the past with modern comforts, creating a truly exceptional living experience. Best of all, all utilities are included in your rent, alleviating any concerns about additional bills.
Convenience is paramount at Hampton Courts. The U Street Metro Station, offering access to the yellow and green lines, is just three blocks away, providing seamless transportation options to explore the city. Additionally, you’ll find Capital Bikeshare bicycles, only a block from the building, offering you endless means of transportation to navigate the vibrant surroundings.
Embrace a vibrant neighborhood where a plethora of amenities awaits. The Saturday Farmer’s Market, Yes Organic Market, Trader Joe’s, Vida Fitness, and numerous yoga studios are all within a few blocks from your front door. Explore the culinary delights, wellness centers, and vibrant community events that surround you.
Come and experience the essence of city living at Hampton Courts. Allow yourself to be captivated by its timeless allure and discover a lifestyle that seamlessly combines historic charm with modern convenience.
Congressional Towers
261 Congressional Lane Rockville, MD 20852
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience at Congressional Towers Apartments, ideally located just off Rockville Pike. Situated in the heart of Rockville, our community offers residents unparalleled access to a host of amenities.
Just three blocks from the Twinbrook Metro, our residents enjoy seamless connectivity to shopping, entertainment, and a diverse range of dining choices. Whether you’re in the mood for a shopping spree or a night out on the town, everything you need is within easy reach.
Our spacious apartments are designed with your utmost comfort in mind. As a resident of Congressional Towers, you’ll enjoy an array of free amenities, including parking and extra storage, ensuring you have ample space for your belongings. Additionally, you’ll receive a membership to Rollins Congressional Club (RCC), a resort-style water park featuring a club-style gym and fitness center. Embrace a healthy and active lifestyle without ever leaving the comfort of your community.
At Congressional Towers, we believe in providing a hassle-free living experience. That’s why all utilities are included in your rent, eliminating the need to worry about multiple bills. Simply move in and enjoy the convenience.
Call or schedule a tour today to discover your perfect apartment home at Congressional Towers. Experience the unparalleled convenience, exceptional amenities, and a vibrant community that awaits you.
Hilltop House
1475 Euclid St NW Washington, DC 20009
Nestled in the vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood, Hilltop House awaits, offering a collection of studio and one-bedroom apartments for rent. Step into a world of charm and comfort, where each apartment boasts large windows and inviting breakfast bars, creating a cheerful, open, and bright atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.
Simplify your apartment living and budgeting with ease, as all utilities are included with your rent at Hilltop House. Experience the convenience of a worry-free lifestyle, allowing you to focus on enjoying the vibrant surroundings.
Hilltop House boasts an enviable location facing the picturesque Meridian Hill Park. Immerse yourself in a variety of social and cultural events that unfold within its lush green spaces. From kickball leagues and yoga classes to Frisbee sessions and drum circles, the park offers endless opportunities for recreation and community engagement. Experience the vibrant energy that fills the park every Sunday as it comes alive with a multitude of activities.
Just a couple of blocks away from the Hilltop House apartment community, you’ll find the Columbia Heights Metro station. This convenient transportation hub provides access to both the green and yellow lines, effortlessly connecting you to all that Washington, D.C. has to offer. Explore the rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods of the capital city with ease.
Hilltop House Apartments offer the perfect blend of a tranquil oasis and access to the excitement of the city. Experience the best of both worlds as you soak in the cultural offerings, culinary delights, and vibrant community of Adams Morgan and beyond. Your perfect home in Washington, D.C. awaits at Hilltop House.
Klingle Apartments
2755 Macomb St. NW Washington, DC 20008
Nestled at the prime corner of Connecticut Avenue and Macomb Avenue, The Klingle awaits with its stunning landscaped grounds and meticulous upkeep. This coveted property offers unrivaled convenience and a lifestyle that caters to your every need.
Situated at the intersection of Connecticut Avenue and Macomb Street, The Klingle places you within easy walking distance of Cleveland Park’s most popular shops and restaurants. Indulge in a variety of culinary delights and explore a vibrant local scene right at your doorstep. Additionally, the Cleveland Park Metro Station, National Zoo, and the locally-famous Uptown Theater are just moments away, ensuring endless entertainment and cultural experiences.
Immerse yourself in a thriving community where convenience and charm harmoniously coexist. The Klingle invites you to experience a lifestyle that seamlessly blends accessibility, natural beauty, and an abundance of local attractions.
Parkside Apartments
1702 Summit Place NW Washington, DC 20009
Discover well-designed apartments that maximize every inch of space, offering a thoughtful layout that meets your every need. Step inside and be greeted by the gleaming hardwood floors, which come to life as natural light streams through the windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The arched doorway details add a touch of architectural interest, showcasing the attention to detail that sets these apartments apart.
Embrace your inner chef in the kitchens, equipped with gas stoves that allow you to prepare gourmet meals with ease. Enjoy the pleasure of culinary creativity in a space designed to inspire.
Beyond the allure of these exceptional apartments, the location is truly unbeatable. Situated just blocks away from both Adams Morgan and Columbia Heights, you’ll find yourself in the heart of two vibrant neighborhoods that offer a wealth of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. With a Walk Score of 91, every amenity and convenience is within easy reach, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of city living.
Welcome to a life where thoughtful design, affordability, and prime location intersect. Experience the best of urban living in these apartments that redefine what it means to feel at home.
Pleasant Hills Apartments
100 Fort Drive NE Washington, DC 20011
Escape to Pleasant Hills, a hidden gem just off North Capitol Street, where beauty awaits your discovery. Immerse yourself in a collection of spacious and affordable apartment homes that exude charm and comfort. Step onto the beautiful hardwood floors that grace each residence, admire the built-in shelves that add a touch of sophistication, and delight in the renovated kitchens that ignite your inner chef.
Pleasant Hills enjoys a privileged location, situated across from Archbishop Carroll High School and a mere two blocks from Catholic University. Experience the vibrancy of the neighborhood as you become part of a thriving community filled with academic excellence and cultural richness.
For effortless commuting, the Brookland Metro station is within easy reach, offering seamless access to all the wonders the city has to offer. Indulge in a myriad of dining options within the thriving Brookland community, where culinary delights await at Col. Brooks Tavern, San Antonio Grill, Brookland Cafe, and more.
Pleasant Hills is where unexpected beauty unfolds, where spacious living, affordability, and a sense of community intertwine to create a truly remarkable experience. Embrace the oasis that awaits you at Pleasant Hills and discover a world of serenity and enchantment.
Sherry Hall Apartments
2702 Wisconsin Ave NW Washington, DC 20007
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of Glover Park, between the coveted areas of Georgetown and Cleveland Park, you’ll find Sherry Hall. Situated on one of DC’s primary arteries, this exceptional residence offers an ideal location that embodies the essence of urban living.
Indulge in the culinary delights of Wisconsin Avenue as you explore the multitude of popular restaurants within walking distance from your doorstep. Delve into a world of flavors and gastronomic experiences, all conveniently close to your new home.
Step inside your apartment sanctuary and be greeted by the elegance of beautiful hardwood floors that grace your living space, adding a touch of sophistication and warmth. Immerse yourself in the modernity of brand new kitchens, thoughtfully designed with stainless steel appliances, including a gas range, granite countertops, and stylish light wood shaker cabinets. The large windows invite an abundance of natural light, illuminating every corner of your home and creating a welcoming ambiance.
At Sherry Hall, we believe in simplifying your life. That’s why all utilities are included, providing you with peace of mind and transparency in your monthly expenses. Say goodbye to surprises and complex calculations—here, you can focus on enjoying the comfort and tranquility of your new home.
Discover the perfect harmony of serenity, convenience, and modernity at Sherry Hall, where every detail is designed to enhance your living experience. Embrace the unmatched lifestyle that awaits you, where vibrant city living meets the comforts of home.
Clarence House Apartments
4530 Connecticut Ave NW Washington, DC 20008
If you’re seeking a studio, one, or two-bedroom apartment that combines convenience and comfort, look no further than Clarence House apartments. Located within walking distance to the metro, Giant, Whole Foods, pharmacies, dry cleaners, restaurants, shopping hubs, and esteemed schools, this is where your apartment search begins.
Living at Clarence House means unlocking the treasure trove of hidden gems in our vibrant neighborhood. Immerse yourself in a world of cultural experiences as you stroll to a captivating concert at the Austrian Embassy or indulge your passion for music by enrolling in a class at the renowned Levine School. Let your literary soul flourish as you become a regular at the iconic Politics and Prose bookstore, where new discoveries await on every shelf. And for a glimpse into the fascinating history of art and gardens, the Hillwood Museum is just a short trip away.
Beyond the convenience and cultural richness, Clarence House offers a haven of comfort and tranquility. Explore the versatile floor plans of our studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, each thoughtfully designed to meet your needs. Experience the joy of coming home to a welcoming and spacious environment that nurtures relaxation and a sense of belonging.
Begin your apartment journey at Clarence House, where the vibrant pulse of city life meets the comforts of home. Embrace the limitless possibilities and experiences that await you in this dynamic neighborhood.
The Norwood
1868 Columbia Road NW Washington, DC 20009
At The Norwood, the perfect fusion of old-world craftsmanship and modern sensibilities awaits you. This historic building has been meticulously upgraded to offer the epitome of apartment living. Immerse yourself in a world where timeless charm meets contemporary convenience.
Step into your new home and be greeted by the allure of hardwood floors, evoking a sense of warmth and sophistication. The high ceilings create an atmosphere of openness and grandeur, while central air conditioning ensures your comfort throughout the year. Experience the harmonious blend of The Norwood’s grace, elegance, and modern upgrades that culminate in a truly distinctive living space.
With an impressive Walk Score of 97, your new home places you at the center of it all. From the vibrant restaurants and nightlife of Adams Morgan to the tranquil beauty of Rock Creek Park, every facet of city living is within your reach. Indulge in culinary delights, explore cultural treasures, and immerse yourself in the energy of the surrounding neighborhood.
At The Norwood, you’ll discover a sanctuary that seamlessly combines history and contemporary living. Unwind in a space that reflects your refined taste and appreciate the convenience of a location that offers endless possibilities. Experience the best of both worlds at The Norwood, where timeless allure meets modern comfort.
Wakefield Hall
2101 New Hampshire Ave NW Washington, DC 20009
As you gaze upon Wakefield Hall’s ornate facade, you’ll soon discover that the beauty continues within. Step into a world of elegance where exquisite apartments await. With hardwood floors, updated kitchens, and walk-in closets, every detail has been carefully curated to create a charming and comfortable living space.
Convenience is at your doorstep at Wakefield Hall. Located near the U St./Cardozo Metro Station, you have effortless access to all that Washington, DC has to offer via the yellow and green lines. Immerse yourself in the vibrant pulse of the city and explore its cultural treasures, all just a few steps away from your front door.
Indulge in the captivating energy of your neighborhood as you venture out. Discover local art galleries, savor the flavors of eclectic cuisines, and embrace the lively atmosphere that surrounds you. Wakefield Hall places you at the center of cultural vibes and offers a gateway to the rich experiences that await in the city.
Embrace a lifestyle that seamlessly combines convenience, charm, and cultural immersion at Wakefield Hall. This is more than just an apartment; it’s a place to call home and an invitation to be part of a vibrant community. Welcome to Wakefield Hall, where timeless beauty and contemporary living intertwine.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. Rental providers will not refuse to rent a rental unit to a person because the person will provide the rental payment, in whole or in part, through a voucher for rental housing assistance provided by the District or federal government.
Some of the largest banks call America home. These banks are backed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and offer a variety of products and services. If you prefer a big bank over regional banks or a smaller, community bank, you’ve come to the right place.
Below we’ve compiled a list of the largest banks in the U.S. Once you read through it and perform some of your own research, you should be able to choose a bank or two that meets your needs.
How to Measure Bank Size
First, let’s discuss how to measure the size of a bank. We can do so by looking at the number of customers, number of branches, and number of employees.
But perhaps the best way to measure bank size is by focusing on the total assets under management. This figure shows the actual size of a bank, regardless of how many employees, branches, or ATMs it has.
In our list of the largest banks in the U.S. below, you’ll find that we include each bank’s total assets so you can get a better idea of just how large it is.
Bank Services
We also thought it would be a great idea to briefly discuss how banks work and what they can do for you as a customer. Banks have been around since at least the 14th century. They offer a safe place for individuals and business owners to park their cash and work on various financial goals.
While every bank has their own unique lineup of services, most of them provide checking accounts, savings accounts, and loan services. Some go the extra mile with credit cards, wealth management services, and other conveniences.
Types of Banks
In addition, it’s wise to go over the types of banks at your disposal. The most common types of banks you’ll find include:
Retail banks: Retail banks serve the public and typically have branches and main offices. They provide a wide range of services, like checking and savings accounts, mortgage and loan services, auto financing, CDs, and individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Retail banks may be regional banks operating in various states.
Commercial banks: Also known as corporate banks, commercial banks gear their offerings to small business owners and larger corporate entities. In addition to the usual banking services, they may offer cash management, employer services, and commercial real estate services.
Investment banks: Investment banks are designed for corporate clients with complex needs, like mergers and acquisitions. These clients are large corporations, governments, and hedge funds.
Central banks: Central banks are not available to the public. Instead, they’re an independent institution that oversees the money supply and monetary policy in the country. The Federal Reserve Bank is the central bank in the U.S.
Banks vs. Credit Unions
While banks are quite popular, some customers use credit unions instead. While credit unions also offer banking services, like checking and savings accounts, they’re not for profit institutions that are managed by their customers or members.
Compared to banks, credit unions tend to deliver more personalized service. But they also provide fewer services and have fewer branches and ATMs. A credit union can make sense, depending on your unique goals.
20 Biggest Banks In The U.S.
Here’s an overview of the largest banks in the U.S.
1. JPMorgan Chase & Co.
Total Assets: $3.381 Trillion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
If you focus on consolidated assets, JPMorgan Chase earns the spot as the largest bank in the U.S. This investment bank is also a holding company for subsidiaries, including Chase Bank. Chase, which is J.P. Morgan’s consumer banking division, has more than 4,700 branches in the U.S. plus more than 30 branch locations abroad.
According to Chase, almost half of the households in the U.S. are Chase customers. It attracts digital savvy customers that value online banking and products with artificial intelligence (AI). In addition to consumer banking, JPMorgan Chase is a combined bank that offers commercial banking, asset and wealth management, and investment banking.
Chase offers some of the most popular cash back and travel credit cards that can earn you valuable rewards through their program, Chase Ultimate Rewards. Using these credit cards for everyday purchases can earn you travel points, cash back, and other benefits.
2. Bank of America Corp.
Total Assets: $2.440 Trillion
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
Bank of America is a multinational bank with nearly 66 million customers and small business clients across the globe. It has a few divisions, including Merrill, Bank of America Securities, and Bank of America Private Bank.
As a Bank of America customer, you can enjoy access to a wide variety of products and services as well as access to more than 4,000 branches and more than 17,000 ATMs.
Just like most big banks, Bank of America prides itself on a robust mobile app, the Zelle payment solution, and other intuitive digital tools. Its various service lines include consumer banking, corporate banking, credit cards, insurance, investment banking services, institutional banking, mortgage loans, private banking, private equity, and wealth management.
3. Citigroup
Total Assets: $1.720 Trillion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Citigroup, which is widely known as Citi, is an investment bank and financial services firm. When Citigroup merged with Travelers Group in 1998, it became a major player in the financial space. Citibank, Citigroup’s retail banking division has more than 700 branches in the U.S. and over 1,800 branches outside the U.S.
Most of the U.S. bank branches are in Florida, California, New York, and Washington DC. Citibank manages over 138 million bank accounts and has 65,000 fee-free ATMs across the country. Over the years, it has earned high rankings for its digital money management tools, including one that shows customers a financial wellness score.
4. U.S. Bancorp
Total Assets: $582.25 Billion
Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota
The parent company of U.S. Bank, Bancorp’s locations are mainly in the Midwest. It offers personal and business banking with more than 3,000 branches and 5,000 ATMs. Over the years, Bancorp has worked to become a responsible financial provider and earn a spot on the Ethisphere Institute’s World’s Most Ethical Companies list.
As a Bancorp customer, you can access information about your accounts through Google Home and Amazon Alexa. You may also download the handy mobile app to make mobile deposits and perform other services, like transactions via Zelle.
5. PNC Financial Services Group
Total Assets: $534.35 Billion
Headquarters: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
PNC is short for Pittsburgh National Corporation. PNC Financial Services is the bank holding company of PNC Bank, which has more than 2,000 branches across 21 states. It stands out among other large banks for its unique customer perks and products for individuals and business owners. The Virtual Wallet tool, for example, lets you manage your money online or on your mobile device.
You can keep your checking and savings accounts together or just stick to one type of account, depending on your particular needs. In addition to traditional banking services, PNC offers mortgages, home equity lines of credit, auto loans, personal loans and personal lines of credit, student loans, and student loan refinancing.
6. Wells Fargo
Total Assets: $1.71 Trillion
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Wells Fargo made its debut in 1852 when it was first opened by investing partners, Henry Wells and William Fargo. It was initially designed as a bank and express delivery service for gold. Eventually, Wells Fargo expanded as a consumer bank to serve all types of customers with various banking needs. It is admired for its long list of offerings and the Wells Fargo mobile app that helps customers track their spending and simplify their bills.
While Wells Fargo has focused on consolidating and prioritizing digital banking services in recent years, it still has about 4,700 locations and more than 12,000 ATMs around the U.S.
In addition to personal and small business banking, Wells Fargo supports commercial banking, investing and wealth management, and investment banking.
7. Truist Financial Corporation
Total Assets: $532.08 Billion
Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina
Compared to the other large commercial banks on this list, Truist is fairly new. It was formed in 2019 as the result of one of the largest bank merger between BB&T and SunTrust.
Truist is made up of three major divisions, including Truist Bank, Truist Securities, and Truist Insurance Holdings. These divisions employ over 37,000 people that work in consumer and commercial banking, investment banking, mortgages, and insurance.
It offers a variety of noteworthy perks, such as no overdraft fees, a $100 negative balance buffer, and automatic upgrades. The bank also places a lot of emphasis on community involvement and giving back.
8. Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
Total Assets: $501.91 Billion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Goldman Sachs was founded in 1869 by Marcus Goldman, a German American shopkeeper. Its original purpose was to help merchants and small businesses with short-term funding. Eventually, Samuel Sachs joined Goldman in 1882. Today, Goldman Sachs has a reputation as a leading global investment banking, management, and securities firm.
In the fall of 2016, Marcus by Goldman Sachs, its online banking division made its debut and began to offer numerous financial products, like savings accounts, certificates of deposit, credit cards, and loans.
In addition to these offerings, Goldman Sachs provides asset management services, mutual funds, investment banking and management, prime brokerage, commodities, and commercial banking.
9. Charles Schwab Corporation
Total Assets: $407.90 Billion
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
Charles Schwab is a multinational financial services firm with a focus on investment accounts, such as individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and brokerage accounts.
You’ll find an extensive selection of funds with low expense ratios as well as commission-free stock and ETF trades. While there are over 360 Charles Schwab branches with financial consultants, you can take advantage of its services online.
Schwab also offers a high-yield checking account. Whether you’re new to investing or consider yourself a veteran, you can benefit from Charles Schwab.
10. TD Group U.S. Holdings
Total Assets: $405.22 Billion
Headquarters: Wilmington, Delaware
While TD Bank has roots in Canada, it’s been in the U.S. market since 2007 when it acquired Commerce Bancorp. There are more than 1,100 branches and 700 ATMs across fifteen U.S. states and Washington D.C.
TD Bank offers the typical lineup of banking products and services but is known for its branch convenience. Most branches have long hours, are open on the weekends, and provide curbside pickup for new debit cards.
If you prefer in-person banking, TD Bank is certainly worth exploring. Many of its accounts come with generous sign up bonuses and access to comprehensive online banking features, such as online bill pay, Zelle, and remote check deposit.
11. Capital One Financial
Total Assets: $388.44 Billion
Headquarters: McLean, Virginia
Since it was established in 1988, Capital One bank is one of the newer large banks on our list. In only a few decades, the bank has grown significantly, thanks to its credit card offerings in the early 90s.
Once 2016 came around, Capital One was named the third-largest credit card issuer in the U.S. These days, Capital One continues to offer credit cards as well as digital services through Capital One 360.
Capital One 360 stands out for its Capital One’s 360 Performance Savings account, which comes with no minimum opening deposit and no minimum balance requirements.
It also has a mobile banking app with mobile check deposit, customized alerts and notifications, Zelle, free credit score monitoring via CreditWise, and more. There are about 775 branches, 2,000 ATMs, and nearly 30 Capital One cafes.
12. Bank of New York Mellon
Total Assets: $365.10 Billion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Bank of New York Mellon came about after a 2006 merger between Mellon Financial Corporation and The Bank of New York. The Bank of New York was originally founded in 1784 by Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury of the U.S. Bank of New York Mellon is now one of the largest securities firms in the word.
It specializes in a number of solutions and services for corporations, insurance companies, banks, brokers, dealers, and other reputable clients in the financial industry. In addition, the bank offers private investment and wealth management services for wealthy clients.
13. State Street Corporation
Total Assets: $296.43 Billion
Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts
State Street Corporation was founded in 1792 as a financial services and asset management company. It has more than 40,000 employees and a global presence in over 100 markets.
Its offerings include investment research and trading, investment management, and securities lending for clients, such as insurance companies, pension funds, and asset owners.
14. Citizens Financial Group
Total Assets: $226.53 Billion
Headquarters: Providence, Rhode Island
Citizens Financial Group, Inc. has been around since 1828. It owns Citizens Bank, its retail division and offers credit cards, deposit accounts, personal loans, student loans, refinancing, and a number of other financial services. Citizen Bank mainly operates in the Northeast and Midwest.
In addition to more than 2,700 ATMs, there are over 1,100 branches in New England states as well as Delaware, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, and New Jersey. The bank provides extended call center hours, a streamlined online experience, and a highly rated mobile app.
15. Silicon Valley Bank
Total Assets: $211.82 Billion
Headquarters: Santa Clara, California
Silicon Valley Bank made its debut in 1983. Today, it serves as a full-service commercial bank for technology and life sciences companies. Aside from traditional banking services, Silicon Valley Bank offers foreign exchange, venture capital, and treasury management services.
It has supported innovation for several well-known tech companies, including Google and Facebook. Many people give it credit for establishing Silicon Valley.
16. Fifth Third Bank
Total Assets: $205.55 Billion
Headquarters: Cincinnati, Ohio
Fifth Third Bank is a subsidiary of Fifth Third Bancorp and known as one of the largest banks in the Midwest. It has approximately 1,100 branches that span across Ohio, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, North Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.
As a customer, you can enjoy access to more than 50,000 ATMs across the country and no opening deposit requirements for checking and savings accounts.
In addition to deposit accounts, Fifth Third Bank financial institutions offer mortgages, auto financing, personal loans, insurance, and investing products. Products and services are available to business customers as well.
17. First Republic Bank
Total Assets: $197.91 Billion
Headquarters: San Francisco, California
First Republic Bank is a premier private bank with more than 80 branches across the country. Its vast lineup of products and services includes checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, IRAs, CDs, and wealth management.
Business customers can take advantage of business loans, business lines of credit, commercial real estate loans, and small business loans. The bank focuses on philanthropy and constantly supports programs related to art and education.
18. Morgan Stanley
Total Assets: $191.35 Billion
Headquarters: New York City, New York
Morgan Stanley’s roots date back to 1935. Today, the bank is a reputable, multinational investment management and financial services company. It has over 700 locations in every state as well as Washington D.C.
Its investing division includes three portfolios, including the impact portfolio, market-tracking portfolio, and performance-seeking portfolio. Whether you’re a beginner investor or wealthy client, Morgan Stanley may be a solid pick.
19. KeyBank
Total Assets: $184.67 Billion
Headquarters: Cleveland, Ohio
KeyBank was founded in 1825 and is now considered a community bank with a presence in 15 states. It has more than 40,000 ATMs in its network and 1,000 full-service branches. The bank also partners with the AllPoint Network of over 40,000 ATMs nationwide.
Its standard services include checking accounts, savings accounts, home loans and mortgages, lines of credit, credit cards, investing, insurance, and debt consolidation. In 2021, KeyBank acquired several digital businesses including digital platform XUP Payments and GradFin, a student loan counseling fintech.
20. Ally Bank
Total Assets: $182.2 Billion
Headquarters: Sandy, UT
While it’s based in Utah, Ally Bank is an online only bank with a long list of digital banking solutions. Its deposit accounts come with no monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements.
The bank also pays high yields on CDs and savings accounts than traditional banks with brick-and-mortar banks. As a customer, you can enjoy 24/7 customer services and access to more than 43,000 ATMs through the Allpoint network.
Bottom Line
As you can see, there are many large banks in the United States. Each one has its own unique perks and priorities. To choose the right bank, consider your location, needs, and preferences.
If you’re looking for personal banking services and prefer a digital platform, Goldman Sachs and its Marcus division may be the way to go. But if private wealth management is your top priority, you may be better off with Bank of New York Mellon. Best of luck in your search for the perfect large bank.
Largest Banks in the U.S. FAQs
What is a bank?
Put simply, a bank is a financial institution that can legally accept checking and savings deposits and distribute loans. Some banks also offer additional services like certificates of deposit (CDs), individual retirement accounts (IRAs) and wealth management.
What is the largest bank in the world?
The Industrial and Commercial Bank of China is the largest bank in the world. The bank’s assets add up to $4.324 Trillion.
What are the ten largest banks in the U.S.?
Ranked in total asset value, the ten largest banks in the U.S. include JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Citigroup, Wells Fargo, U.S. Bancorp, PNC, Truist Bank, Goldman Sachs, Charles Schwab, and TD Group.
How do I choose a bank?
To choose the right bank, focus on what you’re looking for. For more personalized service, you might want to explore a community bank. But if you prefer branch locations across the country and a long list of offerings, one of the large banks on this list might be a better fit.
Is my money safe in a bank?
Your money is safe as long as the bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). An FDIC-insured bank typically insures up to $250,000 per depositor. Note that you don’t have to purchase FDIC insurance. As long as you’re a customer at a bank that offers it, you’ll receive it automatically.
How does a commercial bank differ from a retail bank?
A commercial bank offers a variety of products and services to both individuals and businesses. Retail banks, on the other hand, focus their offerings to individual customers. If you own a business, you’d be better off with a commercial bank that can serve the financial needs of your organization.
Do online banks exist?
Absolutely! In today’s day and age, online banking is more popular than ever before, among larger banks and smaller banks. While some banks offer in-person and online services, other banks, like Ally Bank, solely operate online with no branch locations.
What are some other large banks not on this list?
Other big banks you might want to consider include First National Bank, Huntington Bank, Provident National Corporation, America Bank, and HSBC Bank USA.