"This Saratoga Springs hotel just underwent a down-to-the-studs renovation that honors its Victorian history while giving everything a sleek, urbane feel: think headboards made of tufted navy leather, multiple restaurants perfectly lit with brass sconces, and tricked-out bathrooms with heated floors. If upscale, retro glamour is your thing, this is your spot. Take a pair of their bikes for a spin around town, watch horses fly down the famed race track, or take a bath in the naturally effervescent spring water at the Roosevelt Baths. Get there: Just under a four-hour drive on the Taconic. Splurge on: Ribeyes and martinis at Salt & Char, the adjoining steakhouse." - Andrea Whittle