In August, the Michelin Guide highlighted five “Key” awarded hotels in the United States for their affordability and “value for money.”
For those seeking an economical yet high-quality accommodation in Los Angeles, the food and hospitality authority recommends The Prospect Hollywood – just a 12-minute walk from the city’s iconic Dolby Theater. The 24-room boutique hotel has an Old Hollywood flair, king beds, Diptyque toiletries, a garden courtyard, and fresh fruit and pastries in the morning. The Michelin Guide notes that pricing is “under $300 for much of the year,” meaning travelers could score a deal on the hotel’s location and vibrant vintage glam.
Elsewhere in California, the authority recommends Holiday House Palm Springs. It’s another boutique-style accommodation with just 28 rooms. Though small, it’s a mighty choice thanks to its downtown location, year-round pool, and notable on-site art collection. For the cheapest fares, try to avoid peak travel periods to the area.
In the nation’s capital, check out the Eaton DC. The dynamic and reasonably affordable hotel serves as a hub for creatives and culture, regularly hosting relevant programming. Additionally, it is home to one of the best rooftop party venues in the city, Wild Days, and one of D.C.’s highly acclaimed speakeasies, Allegory. Moreover, the charming on-site café, The Baker’s Daughter and the French-American restaurant Michele’s (spearheaded by a Michelin-starred chef) are more to explore. Guests also have access to the hotel’s wellness offerings, including yoga, massages, and energy healing therapies.
Those staying in the upper Northeast should consider staying at the Inn at Thorn Hill in Jackson, New Hampshire. It’s the perfect getaway for a cold-weather weekend, thanks to its cozy fireplaces, sauna, and dressed-up American fare. Its traditional decor offers an upscale bed-and-breakfast vibe without the hefty cost.
Finally, the Michelin Guide notes that Esme Miami Beach is a fantastic option for those seeking affordable luxury in the Florida hotspot. For the best bang for your buck in Miami, the accommodation offers a modern Spanish-Mediterranean feel just steps away from the beach. There’s also a rooftop pool, turndown service, and multiple dining venues offering a variety of cuisines.
The Michelin Guide has designated all but one of the aforementioned hotels with one “Michelin Key,” signaling that each one is “a very special stay.” The Inn at Thorn Hill has two Michelin Keys, marking it “an exceptional stay.”
How Many Michelin Key-Awarded Hotels Are There In the United States?
Currently, there are 289 Michelin Key-awarded hotels in the U.S.
The food and hospitality authority rolled out its Key designation system in April 2024. Across three continents, as of May 2025, the Michelin Guide has designated almost 1,500 hospitable accommodations with up to three coveted Michelin Keys. The latter is the highest level of approval that the authority gives.
Many foodies may be more familiar with the Michelin Guide‘s star rating system for dining establishments and chefs, or other accolades that are bestowed, including Bib Gourmand and Green Star recognition.
