Colorado’s capital has long been a mecca for outdoor
enthusiasts. Beyond the city limits, cutting-edge architecture
makes way for verdant greenery, jagged peaks and dramatic rock
formations, giving the place a uniquely hypnotic vibe – one that
has to be felt to be believed. Spend hours stomping between the
bruised sandstone bluffs of Red Rocks
Park, where sweeping ripples absorb beams of sunlight and,
after sunset, the Milky Way lights up the sky. The park’s famed
amphitheatre is situated at the base of the mountains – check out
the programme of upcoming concerts and events for the ultimate
open-air gig. We’re recharging our batteries in high style at The
Ramble Hotel, before skipping to Snooze for
fight-size buttermilk pancakes and breakfast burritos.

Where to stay: The Ramble Hotel

You’d be forgiven for assuming that Texas is all BBQ platters
and Black cowboys, but step away from the cattleman hats and roper
boots and prepare to be dazzled by colourful San Antonio. Bordered
by Houston and Austin, the United States’ seventh-largest city
feels far removed from its American siblings. Founded as a Spanish
colonial outpost in the 18th century, there’s still a distinctive
European air about many of its neighbourhoods. The vibrant Pearl
District is a honeypot for artists and creatives, while the San
Antonio River Walk sees foodie start-ups thriving alongside storied
eateries. Visit all-day-bistro Boudro’s for wood-grilled plates and seafood
platters: its colourful parasols and canal-facing seating make for
a great long, lazy afternoon.

Where to stay: Hotel Valencia Riverwalk

The unofficial food capital of the US, Portland (aka the Rose
City) offers the quintessential East Coast experience: lobster and
oysters by the bucketful followed by salty air-filled walks,
old-school boutiques and streets lined by red-brick houses. Art
lovers should swing by Roux & Cyr International Fine Art
Gallery, where oil-painting courses and workshops take place. Not
your vibe? Find the best bagels in town at Rose Foods, whose
build-your-own-style menu offers every type of spread and fish base
possible. For upscale seafood, try Eventide, which also draws
crowds for its no-fuss cocktail menu. Then, head back to base at
Ace Hotel, an art deco set-up with antique flourishes.

Where to stay: Ace Hotel Portland

Arizona – a patchwork of bruised valleys and red canyons. Also,
the home of picturesque Phoenix, a city that arises like a mirage
from its sun-baked surroundings. The perfect day should start with
a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden, where conservation experts
enlighten visitors on the beauty of Arizona’s unique Sonoran
ecosystem – which, we can assure you, is far more interesting than
it sounds. Afterwards, head to MonOrchid Gallery, an urban art space
showcasing works by talented local artists. In town on a Friday
night? Round up the troops and head to
Culinary Dropout. This food-focused gastropub serves up a
no-frills vibe, alongside craft ales and stellar sharing
plates.

Where to stay: Rise Uptown Hotel

A must-visit on any trip south of the Mason-Dixon line,
Charleston is a place of Southern belles, pastel-hued antebellum
architecture, flavourful food and turbulent history. Stop by
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, the oldest public gardens in the
US, where Monet-style footbridges and mossy trees are punctuated by
bright flowers and white peacocks. Halls
Chophouse is a local institution, serving everything from
pan-seared scallops and burrata salad to creamy ravioli – and
that’s before we even get to the entire steak-dedicated menu. Stay
at the charming Emeline and enjoy an impressive roster of
events such as pizza Sundays, fireside s’mores sessions and drag
brunches – to name but a few.

Where to stay: Hotel Emeline