Four hotels for the ultimate USA city break

The USA is jam-packed with exciting cities. And, whether you favour history, art or simply want to unwind and soak up some sun, there’s bound to be a destination to suit. From sprawling beaches to dazzling skylines, these four getaways promise experiences galore, easy access to top attractions and a gorgeous place to unwind at the end of the day. So, what is it to be? San Francisco or New York? Miami or Chicago? The only tricky decision is which to go first…

HOTEL RIU PLAZA CHICAGO

Best for art lovers
Design mavens will love this hotel’s Art Deco cream exterior, which is expertly combined with contemporary interior design – think mahogany, sand and black marble, geometric artwork, and plush velvet chairs aplenty. All 390 rooms are stylish and modern, with plush headboards and a neutral, calming design. Rooms offer sweeping cityscape views and comforts such as a kettle, fridge, TV and a great desk that makes remote working a breeze. Want to break a sweat? Head down to the 24-hour fully equipped gym, before enjoying a tipple (or two) at The Rooftop Bar on the 27th floor for views of the entire city, complete with roaring fires, a glass floor balcony and live music. Don’t miss the American-style buffet breakfast each morning. Or if you’re in a rush to get out and explore the city, stop off at the hotel’s Grab&Go station for some snacks.

On your doorstep
The Magnificent Mile neighbourhood is at your fingertips, with an abundance of cool restaurants and luxe fashion outlets, not to mention the historic Chicago Water Tower, the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower, and the 100-storey John Hancock Center. Art lovers will be enthralled by the Chicago Museum of Contemporary Art, a mile from the hotel’s Streeterville location. Of course, a trip to Chicago is not complete without trying its most indulgent creation – head to nearby Uno Pizzeria & Grill, recognised as the spiritual home of the Chicago deep-dish pizza.

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HOTEL RIU PLAZA MIAMI BEACH

Best for sun-worshippers
Palm-strewn beaches, poolside cabanas and lounges, live music and an open-air terrace restaurant – the Riu Plaza ticks off all the Miami must-haves. A 20-minute stroll from the historic Art Deco District, all its 250 rooms have chic interiors with air conditioning, a mini fridge, coffeemaker and satellite TV. There’s a 24-hour fitness centre to reenergise in, plus those looking to try their hand at golf and tennis – or spend the day cycling beachside – can request these activities for a small fee. Feeling peckish? There are three eateries to choose from: Florida restaurant with its poolside terrace serving international cuisine, Capital deli in the lobby for on-the-go bites and Alligator poolside snack bar for a cocktail in the sun.

On your doorstep
If you can pull yourself away from the beautiful blond sands, have a stroll through the nearby Art Deco District, home to 800 designated historic buildings, with its bright colours, chrome accents and geometric shapes and curves. Lincoln Road is completely pedestrianised, so you can enjoy a ten-block promenade of shops, restaurants and bars. The Bass Museum of Art is less than a mile away from the hotel, and delivers an abundance of contemporary art housed in an historic Art Deco space.

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HOTEL RIU PLAZA NEW YORK TIMES SQUARE

Best for seeing all the sights
This towering glass skyscraper features more than 600 rooms with neutral décor (mixed with accents of red or purple), all with staggering views of the city that never sleeps. Whether you need a desk to finish that all-important meeting or want to unwind in the gym or watch TV, the Hotel Riu Plaza New York Times Square is the ultimate bolthole for those looking to explore the city. There’s an option for a buffet breakfast of international cuisine served in the Theater Buffet restaurant (including gluten-free and vegetarian options) and a Grab&Go bar for when you just need a quick fix on your way into the city.

On your doorstep
Situated in Manhattan’s famous ‘Restaurant Row’ surrounded by Broadway’s theatres, you can’t physically be any more in the action. The hotel has a glorious view of Times Square with its wealth of entertainment and iconic illuminated advertising displays. The Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue and the Empire State Building are a short stroll away.

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HOTEL RIU PLAZA FISHERMAN’S WHARF, SAN FRANCISCO

Best for the adventurous
Cooling off after a long day of business (or sightseeing) is at the heart of this hotel’s philosophy, which is why its luxurious outdoor pool replete with loungers, umbrellas and palm trees is essential. Top up your tan while enjoying the California sun, then hit the 24-hour gym. Rooms are bright and contemporary with geometric carpets, navy furnishings and pale walls, while the lobby is a mix of dark woods and indigo. Feast on an American buffet-style breakfast every morning at the Northpoint bar and restaurant, or taste a few of the state’s best wines, served with accompanying local delicacies, come evening. 

On your doorstep
The famous sea lions of Pier 39 and the original San Francisco Sourdough at Boudin Bakery are a ten-minute stroll away, while the Alcatraz Landing at Pier 33 is only half a mile away. The hotel is in the heart of Fisherman’s Wharf, on the northeastern tip of San Francisco, so there are superb views of the iconic Golden Gate. Hop onto a cable car (the Powell-Mason stop is two minutes from the hotel) or rent a bike and follow the route to San Francisco’s seaside town of Sausalito.

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All holidays with British Airways Holidays are ATOL protected and include a generous baggage allowance per person and a 24-hour holiday helpline. Secure your USA holiday now with a low deposit, and enjoy flexible payments until you fly.*

*Full balance due seven weeks before departure for long-haul holidays. Subject to availability. T&Cs apply. See ba.com/deposits.