This gorgeous property in the Ko Olina resort complex delivers on all of the Disney staples -- but in a much more subtle way than the brand's mainland destinations. Service is excellent, the food is delicious, and the kids always come first. The pool area is gorgeous, boasting a lazy river, two waterslides, and a manmade reef, and the coved-in lagoon offers calm waters. Room decor is cheerful and bright, with nods to both the Mouse that made Disney famous and Hawaii's rich culture. Overall the resort is one of the best in Oahu for families, but those looking for more nightlife should consider someplace closer to Waikiki.

Situated on the largest of Ko Olina's man-made lagoons, the elegant JW Marriott Ihilani is a solid option for families and couples, with two excellent pools, a top-ranked golf course and spa, five tennis courts, and excellent cuisine.

This self-contained upscale resort on a peninsular outcropping of Oahu’s north shore focuses on relaxation and outdoor activities. Families -- and couples in particular -- come here for the golf course, horseback riding, surfing, and other outdoor activities; nightlife is limited to the property’s bars and restaurants. A car is necessary for getting to dining options beyond the resort, which some guests have commented is desirable because of high prices at the on-site restaurants; the nearby town of Haleiwa is about a 25-minute drive, though popular local food spots like Giovanni’s Aloha Shrimp in Kahuku are much closer to the resort. Rooms are upscale, chic, and beachy, and most have ocean views.

The low-key, 436-room Royal Kona has long been an architectural landmark of the Kailua Bay coastline. Its convenient downtown location, affordable rooms, and private lagoon access are all pluses, but be prepared to sacrifice a few frills. There is no Jacuzzi and the pool is small. Rooms are clean and bright, but basic, with small bathrooms and dated furniture.

This gorgeous farm hotel is a secluded, serene haven for foodies and nature lovers. Guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Appalachians by enjoying the venue's 4,200 acres of land and all the various activities offered. The restaurant, The Barn, offers a true farm-to-table dining experience as a majority of the produce is picked from the property's garden. There's also a stunning, tranquil spa and two pools that visitors can enjoy. Guests can stay in luxurious cottages or in a charming room in the Main House.

Opened in 2005, Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid offers a luxurious escape a few miles from town. The 94 suites all have kitchens with stainless steel appliances, laundry, and free Wi-Fi. Activities for every season and every age include ice skating, snow shoeing, tennis, canoeing/kayaking, motorized boating, a movie theater, and bowling alley, to name a few (all are free). KANU restaurant and lounge, with fireplaces roaring, serves three meals — breakfast is another freebie — and adults can hit the spa while the kids participate in the free "Kamp Kanu" children's program. An underground tunnel connects to the indoor/outdoor pool and hot tubs during cold weather, otherwise it's a short walk across the beautiful grounds. Other extras include coffee, tea, and refreshments in the afternoon, and s’mores around the bonfire in the evening. 

The Ocean House is a luxury resort, with the rates to match, located on a private white-sand beach in the sleepy coastal town of Watch Hill. The hotel offers a slew of amenities, including a full-service spa, large fitness center, indoor pool (that opens to the outdoors), and plenty of dining options, so there’s really no reason for guests to leave the hotel grounds -- which is good, because there’s not a lot in Watch Hill, aside from the cute little boutiques and shops on the main street.

Not just any hotel in St. Louis can get away with using the word "Ballpark" in the name, but the Hilton -- with its unmatched view of Busch Stadium -- deserves the moniker. The 670-room property is divided over two towers, and thought it's older (it used to be a Marriott) it underwent renovations in 2012. Rooms have contemporary decor, flat-screen TVs, and iPod docks (though some are still undergoing renovations). tag:revisit 4/1/2013 Its numerous meeting and convention facilities on-site draw a business crowd, but the trendy rooftop bar -- boasting 360 degree views -- attracts a young and fun set, especially on game nights. Meanwhile, dining options on the main level include a mix of casual and gourmet fare. An indoor pool and fitness center are free for guests, but there are fees for Wi-Fi and valet parking.

The Moonrise Hotel features urban-chic design with a unique moon theme and is located in a young neighborhood near Washington University. The 125 rooms have contemporary style and quality amenities such as Eurotop beds and walk-in glass showers. Gourmet cuisine is served at the Eclipse Restaurant on the main floor, and the Rooftop Terrace Bar features a huge revolving man-made moon, not to mention great city views. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout.

The Cheshire has long been a St. Louis institution, and the historic property was thoroughly rejuvenated after multi-million dollar renovations in 2011. The classic decor in the lobby and cozy Fox & Hounds tavern were preserved during the overhaul, and the 108-room property retained charming British-inspired elements throughout. Yet modern additions -- such as the chic outdoor pool and terrace, as well as luxe amenities in rooms (flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, pretty duvets) -- add a fresh boutique appeal. Free extras including a continental breakfast, coffee/tea (at all times), use of a fitness center, a business center, free bicycles, and Wi-Fi, help make it a great value.