Where to stay on a road trip from New York to Miami

New York City: 1 Hotel Central Park

Before you hit the road, why not start with a bit of nature (in the middle of the concrete jungle, no less). 1 Hotel Central Park is all about eco-friendly living in the city, with its reclaimed wood and living green walls, but it doesn’t skimp on the style. A stone’s throw from Central Park, this place is perfect for kicking off your trip with a morning jog or a coffee-fuelled stroll through the city’s green heart. And when you’re ready to roll, the hotel’s farm-to-table restaurant, Jams, can pack you a tasty snack for the road.

Philadelphia: The Rittenhouse

As you cruise into Philly, you’ll want to park up at The Rittenhouse, a hotel as impressive as the city itself. Right on Rittenhouse Square, it’s a mix of elegance and ease, with massive rooms to stretch out in after the drive. If you fancy some sightseeing, Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell are just around the corner. Or, if you’d rather stay in, pop downstairs to Scarpetta for some indulgent Italian plates. Either way, it’s a solid spot to recharge before your next stretch down I-95.

Washington, D.C.: Rosewood Washington

If you’re rolling into the nation’s capital, you’ll want a hotel with personality, and the Rosewood in Georgetown has plenty of it. The tiny hotel packs a punch with only 55 rooms, making it feel like your personal D.C. hideaway. If you’ve got the energy, take a stroll along the historic C&O Canal or snap a selfie at the Washington Monument (it’s kind of the law). Afterward, unwind at the rooftop bar, CUT Above, with views over the Potomac, and maybe even catch the sunset before crashing for the night.

Virginia: Keswick Hall

Leaving the buzz of the cities behind, Virginia brings a scenic stretch of your road trip, and Keswick Hall is the pit stop that feels more like a detour into luxury. Set against the backdrop of rolling hills and the Blue Ridge Mountains, this countryside estate offers a laidback vibe perfect for taking a breather. Play a round of golf, wander through nearby vineyards, or just sit by the pool with a drink in hand. And if you’re interested, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello is just a short drive away.

Charlotte: The Ballantyne

Next stop, Charlotte. While you’re technically still in the city, The Ballantyne feels like its own little world. It’s got that resort feel with a side of Southern sophistication. Stretch your legs on the championship golf course or take a dip in the pool – you’ve earned it after the long drive. If you’re into whisky, the Scotch selection at the lobby bar is a good way to cap off the day. Plus, the freshly renovated rooms are the perfect cosy crash pad before hitting the road again.

Charleston: The Charleston Place

Now that you’ve made it to Charleston, it’s time to soak up some Southern charm. The Charleston Place is right in the heart of downtown, and it’s the kind of hotel where you can almost hear the “y’alls” in the marble-lined hallways. Local life seeps into the lobby, with locals grabbing brunch at the Palmetto Café or enjoying live music after church. The hotel’s central location means you can walk everywhere – perfect for stretching your legs before the next leg of the trip.

Savannah: The Alida

A road trip down the East Coast wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Savannah, and The Alida is your riverside retreat. Once a warehouse, this boutique hotel now has exposed brick, mid-century touches, and some seriously cool style. Grab a cocktail at the rooftop bar while taking in views of the river, or explore Savannah’s squares and streets, all just a short walk away. They even throw in complimentary Champagne at check-in.

Orlando: Four Seasons Resort Orlando

When you roll into Orlando, you’ll find theme parks galore, but the Four Seasons Resort is where you’ll want to land. It’s tucked within the Walt Disney World Resort, and while it offers all the glitz you’d expect from the brand, it’s far enough from the chaos that you can actually relax. Fancy early entry into the parks? Done. But if rides aren’t your thing, spend the day at the spa or chill by the pool before watching Disney fireworks from the rooftop steakhouse.

The Miami Beach EDITION

End your road trip in style at The Miami Beach EDITION, designed by Ian Schrager (the mind behind Studio 54). Located on a massive piece of beachfront real estate along Collins Avenue, the EDITION boasts two ocean-facing pools, a restaurants by Michelin-starred restaurant, a bowling alley and even an ice-skating rink. Spend your final days lounging by the pool, enjoying mojitos at the lobby bar or making your mark at the on-site nightclub. This is Miami, after all.