The US’s coziest stays for the holidays

For anyone who wants to get away but also feel at home, the holiday season is a great opportunity for some escapism added to the celebrations. Traveling to a special setting doesn’t mean you can’t also feel right at home. Book any one of these cozy long-term stays across the US for an unforgettable winter break (all of these stays allow bookings of up to 90 days).

New York City, New York

For a cozy stay in Manhattan, you can’t beat the charming Manhattan Guest Suites right in the heart of Harlem. This beautiful brownstone faces the historic Marcus Garvey Park, home to a drum circle and an ensemble of instruments that performs every week. The period features of each suite are reminiscent of an Agatha Christie novel, with peach-colored walls, ornate rugs, hand-painted screens, and other delightful antique furnishings. Expect homemade cookies, cinnamon rolls, and banana or walnut bread from the welcoming host, as well as close proximity to some of NYC’s best eateries. Harlem is known for its soul food—check out the renown Sylvia’s restaurant nearby—as well as its legendary jazz clubs and speakeasies.

Vail, Colorado

For the coziest of holiday stays, head to the snow-covered mountains of Vail. This charming town is the gateway to 5,317 acres of ski-able terrain and the turreted, fairytale Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort offers ski-in/ski-out access. Wake up to views of a winter wonderland from your balcony before spending the day on the slopes to enjoy the resort’s fresh powder and wide range of runs. If you’d rather not go skiing or snowboarding, there’s also snowmobiling and other outdoor activities. Or you could just stay at the hotel and indulge in a spa day. Make the most of on-site massages, hot tubs, sauna, steam room, and rooftop swimming pool. For lazy evenings, cozy up by your suite’s fireplace or take a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the town’s cobblestone streets, tucked up in a warm blanket beneath the stars.

Washington, DC

Lined in brass and marble, Riggs Washington DC makes for a luxurious home away from home and a very special holiday season. The hotel occupies the former Riggs National Bank, and its present incarnation incorporates its history into the elegantly updated lobby with grand chandeliers and velvet upholstery. Suites have four-poster beds and views across the city, while Riggs’ prime location—just five minutes from Gallery Place—makes it easy for guests to visit DC’s main Christmas sights. Check out the National Christmas Tree, lit up on the first Thursday of December just across from the White House in the President’s Park. You can swing by to see the lit-up tree every day starting at 4:30 pm. Grab a cup of hot cocoa from a vendor and wander the park to admire the “America Celebrates” display of trees honoring the history, heritage, and culture of each US state.

Chicago, Illinois

See the Windy City lit up and filled with holiday cheer while staying at The Guesthouse Hotel. This family-owned boutique hotel in the Andersonville neighborhood has a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for admiring the city skyline over a bottle of wine in the evenings. Spend winter afternoons reading a book by the fireplace before heading out to enjoy Chicago’s seasonal downtown theater productions and holiday markets. Grab a hot cocoa or egg nog to sip while weaving through the stalls and admiring the twinkling Christmas lights. Or strap on a pair of skates and enjoy the magical Chicago tradition of gliding around the ice rink in Millennium Park.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah during the holidays is an atmospheric feast for the eyes. Stroll around the Historic District at dusk to see windows lit by candles and Christmas trees inside. The public squares are often decked out in greenery with red ribbons adorning the lamp posts. Wreaths of holly and berries decorate the front doors of old houses like a scene from Charles Dickens. Spend the season at The Inn on West Liberty, an Italianate-style home renovated with elegant individual suites. Located in the middle of Downtown, the property is ideal for enjoying the city’s holiday attractions. Check out the colorful Christmas parade or the City Market for ornament-making and photo opportunities with Santa Claus.