Boutique hotels are all the rage today—and why not?
Videos by TravelAwaits
Along with all the amenities of the average hotel stay, boutique brands offer style, flare, and the unexpected.
But they’re rarely affordable.
The newer and more innovative the brand, the higher its prices climb. The same for well-established design hotels.
Fortunately for you, I’ve done the dirty work to uncover some of the US’s coolest boutique hotels—that won’t break the bank. All options below have a near-perfect rating from previous guests and will cost no more than $300 a night.
Time to feel like a prince, my little pauper.
Graduate Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Funky and fresh is a great way to describe this Chapel Hill hotel.
Think: blue ceilings, expressive wallpaper, and bright accents.
From its rooms to its communal areas, there’s a cozy and deeply charming feel to this hotel. There are also plush and branded basketballs for those who are in town to watch some college ball.
*Keep in mind that you won’t find rates under $300 at The Graduate during high season.
The Cottages Hotel
Melo Park, California
The Cottages is a modern and yet charming stay—a great option for anyone who wants to explore nearby San Diego. There’s also a fantastic pool area with loungers and umbrellas. It’s bordered by ivy on one side, providing a cozy and private feel.
The exterior is a little dated, but don’t judge this book by its cover.
Grandview Gardens
West Palm Beach, Florida
Finding deals in West Palm Beach isn’t easy—and you’ll definitely make a few trade-offs staying at the Grandview Gardens.
But let me sell you on its promising amenities: its large pool and bougainvillea garden. The vines climb over the two-story balconies, creating a really magical atmosphere, especially when the pink flowers are in full bloom.
Enzian Inn
Leavenworth, Washington
From the outside looking in, the Enzian looks like its straight out of a Bavarian fairytale.
The hotel’s interior also reflects that wood-centric and winter lodge feel. The wooden accents are perfectly worn, and the white sheets are perfectly crisp. Even the cinema and game room are Alpine themed.
*The rooms run a tad bit over $300, but given the luxury feel of the Enzian Inn, it’s still worth a shout-out.
Volcano Village
Hawaii
I’ve done the impossible in finding you an affordable stay on Hawaii’s main island.
Volcano Village, similar to the Hollander Hotel (below), isn’t the cutest stay on this list. The design is a bit busy for me. But I will say it blends seamlessly into the stunning gardens that fill the grounds.
From its sitting areas to the lush greenery all around, it’s a really beautiful choice. I also love the stained glass window features.
Hollander Hotel
St. Petersburg Florida
This hotel doesn’t have the highest design on the list. (You’ll know you’re in Florida.)
That being said, the communal area beach area has style and flare, while the outdoor bar lounge looks like the perfect place to meet other guests.
My favorite part? The salon and sitting area are over-the-top gaudy, offering you a slightly elevated boutique stay in the heart of Spring Breakers country.
Chamberlain Inn
Cody, Wyoming
This adorable and historical hotel is located right in the heart of downtown Cody, a tiny spot around 50 miles from Yellowstone National Park.
The rooms aren’t particularly stunning, but the shared spaces are beautiful. The dining area has a glass ceiling and opens into the grassy backyard, a place where guests regularly gather.
I’m all about that functional outdoor space, which makes this a great choice for others like me.
*Avoid the high season, as rooms will go for exorbitant prices and wouldn’t be worth the stay.
Princess Anne Hotel
Asheville, North Carolina
There’s a historical vibe at the Princess Anne Hotel—and I’m all about it.
From the restored wooden floors to the stone fireplace in the sitting room, you’ll feel like you’re walking through a period novel. Best of all, the hotel has modern amenities and updates, like room service and glass showers.
La Reserve Bed & Breakfast
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Speaking of historical vibes, La Reserve is tucked into one of Philadelphia’s most storied downtown streets.
Because the hotel is part of an old brownstone, it’s not the largest on this list. Also, some rooms still have carpet.
But the charm is all the way turned up at La Reserve, from its location to its décor. Just make sure to specify which room you’d like to book; some are cuter than others.
Sparrows Lodge
Palm Springs, California
You won’t be short on cheeky boutique hotels and Airbnbs in Palm Springs—but you might be strapped to find an affordable location.
That’s not the case at the Sparrows Lodge. Not only does it have a large pool with plenty of loungers and palm trees, but sitting and dining areas are also top-notch.
The rooms are also to die for, decked out in a bohemian surfer vibe that somehow feels tasteful. In other words, I’ve saved the best for last.
