The independently owned hospitality company also has locations in Idaho, California, Arizona, and Wyoming.

There are four tiers of rooms. The lowest is a 700-square-foot premier room with a sectioned-off sitting area.

The second tier is an 880-square-foot executive suite with a living room.

A 1,000-square-foot kitchenette suite is the third tier, and the top tier is a 2,4000-square-foot presidential suite with two bathrooms, a whirlpool tub made of Italian marble, and a full kitchen, breakfast bar, and dining room.

The Grand America Hotel aims to be an American-sized, European-esque hotel. And I think it delivered.

The spaces were decorated with Italian marble floors and glass chandeliers, as well as French cherry-wood furniture and classic antiques.

The hotel reminded me of the lavish cars on the iconic luxury sleeper train I rode from Paris to Venice in 2023 — the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

I booked an executive suite with a base rate of $340 a night, though BI received a media rate for the one-night stay.

Knowing the room's rate, I was astonished when I stepped inside. The accommodation was on par with luxury hotels I've booked that cost $1,000 a night.

I entered a spacious hallway leading to a large living room with a workspace. To the right was the bedroom, which had a king-sized bed. Both rooms had floor-to-ceiling windows framing the downtown Salt Lake City skyline and the hotel gardens below.

The bathroom was coated in Italian marble, with a shower and separate soaking tub. I found Grand America-branded luxury toiletries on the counter and in the shower. The lotion smelled so good that I asked for a couple more to bring home.

My tour started in the lobby, where I learned the wood paneling was sourced from West Africa.

A representative also told me that the marble flooring was bookended and matched by hand to create a geometric pattern.

In true European spirit, the Lobby Lounge has a daily afternoon tea service with snacks and live music from harpists.

For cocktail hour, guests should check out the Gibson Lounge on the same floor.

The Shops at The Grand is a collection of high-end boutiques inside the hotel selling clothing, accessories, snacks, toiletries, and other essentials.

The most surprising store was JouJou, a vibrant and whimsical toy store that felt like a child's wonderland.

The 20,000-square-foot Grand Spa welcomed guests with a grand lobby area. It had a water feature and retail items from popular athleticwear brands like Lululemon.

The representative said that visiting NBA players often exercise in the fitness center, which is open 24 hours a day.

Upon entering, the indoor pool area was calming. Natural light poured into the white, cave-like room through carved archways, and cozy nooks framed the main pool.

Bonne Vie is a coffee shop that serves local brews, French baked goods, and in-house ice cream.

Laurel Brasserie & Bar is a European-style bistro.

The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a large menu that includes pasta, pizza, sandwiches, salads, and desserts.

The hotel can host up to 3,000 attendees at a time with three ballrooms, 20 meeting rooms, and a 35,000-square-foot courtyard for outdoor events.

The 24,000-square-foot suite felt like a luxury apartment. The living room was bright and spacious, with a striking marble fireplace and a wealth of seating.

Despite its large size, the two-bathroom suite only sleeps two. But guests can host their friends and family with a full kitchen and a dining room that seats eight people.

And it's an ideal pick for travelers like me who want to experience luxury on a budget.

I flew from my home in NYC to Denver and boarded a 15-hour Amtrak train to Salt Lake City.

It wasn't my first overnight Amtrak train ride. In 2021, I took a 30-hour ride from NYC to Miami. The biggest difference between these two rides was the views.

In 2021, I had decent views of the East Coast, from towns to shorelines. But the sights between Colorado and Utah were on another level. I rode through Rocky Mountain National Park and watched the snow-capped forest landscape transition into red rocks and canyons as the train made its way to my destination.

My train trip to Miami was on an Amtrak Viewliner, a one-story train. My recent Amtrak trip to Salt Lake City was on a Superliner, a double-decker train.

On board, I was surprised and excited to find a communal car on the top floor designated for sightseeing since the Viewliner did not have one. The car had two rows of windows and an array of seating options, such as booths and swivel chairs.

Most major cities I visit have an array of luxury accommodations, so when booking my trip to Salt Lake City, I was dumbfounded when I only found a couple of five-star hotels.

I selected the Grand America Hotel — the city's first five-star hotel built in 2001 to serve the 2002 Olympics.

Since its opening, the hotel has been known for hosting A-listers. While hotel representatives declined to reveal any celebrity guest names, a representative of Grand America told BI that they have hosted visiting NBA teams.

The Grand America Hotel was also listed in the top 40 hotels in the world in CN Traveler's 2024 Reader's Choice Awards.

I spent one night in an executive suite with a king-sized bed. The room has a base rate of $340, though Business Insider received a media rate for the one-night stay.

The hotel was as lavish as many I've booked in the $500-$1,000-a-night price range. My room was 880 square feet, with a living room, a bedroom, and a Juliet balcony. I appreciated the spacious marble bathroom and thick, cozy robes with satin lining hanging in the walk-in closet.

Since Salt Lake City is the metropolis of the Silicon Slopes, I expected most of the tech scene to be there. However, I found that the nearby suburb of Draper has created a booming tech community. I visited a large building that served as offices and a coworking space for several companies, giving techies the chance to network daily.

I got private tours of two companies inside the building — Bamboo HR and Pluralsight. The offices were modern and sleek, with intentional color palettes and cozy seats, as I'd expect from any tech office.

But work aside, these spaces had activities for breaks that would make it hard for me to get back to my tasks — pickleball, rentable bikes for trail riding accessible from the property, and, most surprising to me, an indoor golf simulator projected onto a movie theater-sized screen.

In most wealthy towns I visit, the luxury housing is spread out on the outskirts of town, away from the public eye.

That's the case for most of Park City, too.

However, in the downtown area, I spotted many modern and high-end homes layered among older houses on hilltops overlooking the streets. I thought it would be nice to live in a luxury mansion in a walkable neighborhood.

I knew Park City was known for skiing, but I didn't expect to see an active ski lift nearly at arm's length while strolling through the downtown area.

It made sense when I learned that this part of Park City sits between two major ski hubs — Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort.

Finding a public bathroom in New York City often becomes an unwanted adventure. I've even left hangouts early to go home.

So, I didn't expect to see a vibrant sign pointing to one in downtown Park City. I didn't go inside, but all the public restrooms in Park City I saw on Google Maps had five-star ratings.

I also found lit, electric firepits surrounded by benches in courtyards between stores and restaurants.

From Park City's unexpected amenities to Salt Lake City's affordable luxury stays, these unexpected delights made me certain I'll return to the Silicon Slopes.

Shooting Star's history dates back to the 1930s when the Resor family created Snake River Ranch, now known as the largest working cattle ranch in Jackson Hole.

Shooting Star owner and operator John Resor transformed a section of the ranch into an exclusive golf course, club, and residential community. It was a $130 million project.

Roughly 22 miles from the town of Jackson, Shooting Star is sandwiched between Snake River Ranch and Jackson Hole Resort.

When I toured the property, I thought the clubhouse looked like a luxury ranch. The expansive building overlooked the golf course and a 25-meter lap pool.

I spotted realistic paintings of cattle at Snake River Ranch and an animal skull on the foyer walls.

I also noticed a range of natural textures, from the wood floors and ceiling moldings to the leather seats in front of the large stone fireplace.

I'm no golfer, but it was instantly clear why Golf Digest ranked this a top 100 course in the US.

The 250-acre course looked dynamic, with aspen and evergreen trees dotting hills parted by ponds and streams. It was designed by Tom Fazio, who also designed Donald Trump's golf clubs in Westchester, New York, and Pine Hill, New Jersey, as well as multiple courses at the exclusive Vintage Club in Indian Wells, California, where Bill Gates purchased a home for $12.5 million in 1999.

The golf course blended in so seamlessly with its surroundings that I thought it was a naturally occurring landscape, but the land was actually reformed with a design goal of making each hole unique.

According to a Shooting Star brochure, the process included moving 2 million cubic yards of dirt, planting more than 2,500 trees, and carving out 50 acres of lakes.

For a handful of PGA pros, including the golf club's director Ben Polland, Shooting Star is more than a home course — it's a day job.

According to Jackson Hole Sotheby's International Realty, most of these homes didn't hit the market. However, the most expensive available listing is a four-bedroom, four-bathroom lodge for nearly $14 million.

In the winter, Shooting Star becomes a skier's haven, and the Alpine Barn is the hub.

Inside, there were nearly 200 lockers. During ski season, the barn shows movies and serves complimentary food. A shuttle takes skiers to the nearby Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to hit the slopes, but there's also a track around the course's perimeter for a short run.

The 2,400-square-foot facility had smart cardio equipment with large screens overlooking the swimming pool and barn. A handful of workout studios offered classes like yoga and pilates.

Outside, there were also tennis and pickleball courts.

I stepped into one of the six treatment rooms and thought it felt serene.

Limestone and wood moldings texturized the walls. There was a fireplace, cozy seating, and two treatment beds.

Natural light poured in from the window at the back of the room. There was a gigantic stainless steel tub in front of it. I thought bathing in there with a view of the course and surrounding Tetons would be a dream.

I spotted glass jars containing toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, hair ties, eye drops, and over-the-counter pain and allergy medication.

The dining room had a wood-burning fire pit inside. Out on the patio, members could dine right next to the golf course.

The property feels vast, so seeing it all planned out on one table helped me better understand the course and development.

I left with a sense of what it might be like to be a member of such an exclusive club in an epic location.

Amtrak's Superliner is a two-story train fleet that runs on routes west of Chicago and New Orleans, including the California Zephyr. The cars are roughly 30 to 50 years old, and Amtrak plans to replace this fleet and others in the 2030s, Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari told Business Insider.

For now, the train line is investing $28 million into interior renovations on long-distance trains, including new carpets, LED lighting, and a seating makeover in coach, communal, and sleeper cars.

Roughly 76% of the Superliner sleeper cars have been updated, and the rest are scheduled to be completed in 2025.

I was lucky enough to ride in a newly refreshed Superliner.

A roomette accommodation is a step above coach seating and a step below a bedroom, which is twice as large and includes a full private bathroom. Two steps above, a bedroom suite joins two bedrooms, providing four beds and two bathrooms with showers.

The train also has family bedrooms, which sleep two adults and two kids, and accessible bedrooms with two bunks.

My ticket also included access to a first-class attendant who took meal reservations, offered turndown service, and fielded questions and requests.

I skipped the coach passenger line to board, stepped onto the train, and placed my luggage in a shared storage space where each passenger was allowed two suitcases.

Then, I walked down a short hallway to my room, which had a sliding door that locked from the inside.

The roomette sleeps up to two people. During the day, the room was set up with two seats, which reclined to form the lower bunk. The upper bunk could be pulled down to reveal the cot.

Next to one of the chairs, there was a shelf below a tall mirror. There were multiple hooks around the room that I used for jackets and accessories.

I could tell the seats were new. They were wide and cushy with no signs of wear. But just to make sure, I asked Magliari how a passenger could tell if they were in an updated sleeper car.

"Doing away with the blue fabric is the biggest giveaway," he said. "If you see gray, vinyl seating, then you know that you are in a fresh room."

Magliari added that the new seat cushions and upholstery provide more lumbar support than the older models.

There were lighting, speaker volume, and temperature controls, as well as one outlet and a call button for the attendant.

There were cupholders on either side of the table — each holding a complimentary water bottle. However, the holders were too shallow to contain the bottles when the train shook, causing them to fall over during turbulent stretches.

"The cupholder size is a challenge we've faced. Beverage shapes and sizes change over time," Magliari told BI, alluding to the rise of brands expanding circumference like Stanley and Yeti.

Inside the closet, I found some hangers and fresh linens.

My booking didn't include a private bathroom. The shower and three of the bathrooms were on the first floor. I never had to wait in line to use the restroom, and I noticed they had been cleaned since my last visit a couple of times during the ride.

After dinner in the dining car, I reclined both seats to be flat, forming the bottom bunk. The bed was wider and more comfortable than most train bunks I've slept on. The pillows were thick and fluffy, and the plush blanket had a luxurious feel.

A 23-square-foot room may seem small, but the wide, comfy seats, impressive space-saving hacks, and views outside the expansive window made it feel large.

The stateroom decks comprised long hallways lined with identical blue doors, so my magnet made it easier to find my cabin.

The cruise ship's WiFi wasn't strong enough for me to stream videos.

I enjoyed a few beach days during my cruise, so sunscreen was essential. And I was sure to pack a reef safe brand since I was visiting multiple beaches.

Aloe vera typically soothes and cools my burns, so next time, I'll pack some in case I forget to apply sunscreen.

An excursion guide at one of the ports informed me that some beaches in the Caribbean, like Tulum, Mexico, don't allow sunscreen in the ocean to protect wildlife.

As other cruisers snorkeled with phones in hand, I realized I was missing an opportunity to capture ocean life.

I don't typically wear my sun hat — especially not in my home city, New York — so the cruise was the perfect occasion to pull it out of my closet.

Mornings and evenings on the ship's top decks were so windy that I had to leave my hat in my room to avoid chasing it around.

I ended up wearing my sweater every day during the Caribbean cruise.

In hindsight, I should have packed a couple more pairs of pants. Sweatpants would have been especially useful at night on the outdoor decks.

I was often chilly at night in my sweater alone.

On my cruise, Royal Caribbean's laundry service charged for each article of clothing — $4 a shirt, $9 a dress, and $2 per pair of underwear.

I packed two pairs of shoes: sneakers for walking and waterproof sandals for the beach and pools.

A small pack was handy during port stops and while exploring the ship.

Ship time is the time zone that cruise ships adhere to even when docked at ports in different time zones.

My ship stopped in Roatan, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas, CocoCay.

I packed vitamins to support my immune system since I was coming in contact with many people.

I always pack Dramamine on my trips to avoid motion sickness.

It was especially loud since I was at the front of the ship, where seasoned cruisers said movement on ships feels the strongest.

Next time, I'll come prepared.

My ocean-view stateroom was a step above interior staterooms with no windows, a category below staterooms with a balcony, and two steps below a stateroom suite.

I thought Central Park was the most relaxing outdoor deck on the ship — and often, the least crowded. So I enjoyed being close by.

Right away, I thought the cabin made great use of a small space.

I'm always looking for more sustainable ways to travel, so I appreciated the energy-saving system.

I used the desk to eat meals and sort daily flyers about the goings-on.

The desk drawers were mostly empty, save for a hair dryer, which I didn't use.

I found a rack of hangers, shelving, and a small safe inside each closet. I thought it was plenty of space for a weeklong journey.

In the bathroom, there were two glasses, a bar of soap, and a two-in-one hair and body wash.

The trash can and toilet paper were situated under the counter to save space.

At the top of the shower, a pullout clothing line was useful for drying my bathing suits.

Sometimes, the towels were folded creatively to look like animals.

All Royal Caribbean cabins come with this configuration so that they may be separated for additional guests. I often woke up in the crevice.

Skinny nightstands on either side of the bed held lamps, charging ports, and a room phone on one side.

The window had an electronic shade that could be opened during the day for grand views and closed when I was ready to sleep.

And watching the sun rise over the Caribbean Sea from the comfort of my room was the best part.

The Airbnb was part of a tiny home hotel in Neustrelitz, Germany, called Slube. The company designs minimal concrete "Slubes" for up to two people.

There are three types of Slubes: Basic, which is one story; Home, which is two stories; and Tower, which adds a rooftop terrace. I booked a Home Slube.

At 16 feet tall, the tiny home with two floors was 106 square feet.

When I arrived by train from the airport in Berlin, I didn't see any employees on the property.

I was confused at first, but then I checked my email. I had a message from Slube informing me I'd be staying in room five and could check in by myself.

The sitting area had a foldout table. When I wasn't using it, I could push it into the wall to save space.

Across from a foldout table was a bench with two seat cushions instead of a couch.

Beneath the benches, there was enough space for me to store luggage.

There were hooks and storage cubbies above the bench, so I stored all of my clothing and toiletries on the first floor.

In the back right corner of the sitting area, there was a nook of built-in shelves storing a small coffee machine, a hair dryer, and a few dishes.

There was a curtain separating the shower head and sink from the toilet and storage space.

The first-floor windows had a film over most of the glass, which allowed me to let natural light in without sacrificing my privacy.

I thought it was easy to climb but could be challenging for some.

There was a latched gate at the top of the ladder, which I imagine was built to keep people safe from falling.

Knowing I was securely fastened into the bed area made falling sleeping easier.

A comfy, full-size bed covered the floor space. The pillows had the ideal ratio of fluff to firmness for my neck and head.

Before bed, I watched some of my favorite shows.

It had easily accessible outlets, a pocket for the TV remote, and more space for my electronics and water bottle.

It had a black-out curtain for privacy and early morning light.

I controlled the lights and temperature of each story from my phone.

While I can't stick a second story into my own rental, the European tiny home still gave me inspiration for how I could make better use of my space, starting with vertical storage hacks.

After my first overnight Amtrak trip, I learned that the train line has a loyalty program that rewards passengers two points for every $1 spent. Points may be used for tickets, hotels, shopping, and dining, and it's free to join.

If I'd signed up, I would have earned 3,000 points toward my next Amtrak adventure. I missed out that time, but I recently joined the program following my Denver to Salt Lake City journey.

When I booked my first overnight Amtrak ride, I didn't check if my ticket included access to the Metropolitan Lounge at NYC's Penn Station, where I departed.

The Metropolitan Lounge is a quiet waiting area that's free for Amtrak customers in first-class and sleeper cabins. It has comfortable seats and free snacks and drinks.

Since I didn't realize my ticket included access to the lounge, I waited in the seating area for all passengers and was less comfortable than I could have been.

That first ride taught me that overnight trains are very bumpy, and I felt sick for most of it.

For all my overnight rides since, I haven't forgotten to pack my medicine.

I chose to sleep in the top bunk on my first overnight train. I thought it would be more fun, but it made the ride feel even bumpier.

On every overnight ride since, I've opted for the bottom bunk over the top and have found that I sleep better that way.

Amtrak sleeper trains have a variety of accommodations, from regular seats to private rooms.

I traveled from NYC to Miami in a $500 roomette, a 20-square-foot enclosed private space with a foldout table, two chairs that fold out into beds, and an additional bed that pulls down from the ceiling.

On my way back to NYC, I spent 30 hours in the next level up, a bedroom accommodation. It cost $1,000 for twice as much space as the roomette, with a private bathroom.

After these rides, I thought the roomette felt cramped and realized that spending twice as much money for double the space in the bedroom was worth it.

Some of the sleeper trains I've taken in Europe did not have private accommodations like Amtrak. Instead, they had shared cabins, and I learned that some were more comfortable than others.

For example, two Nightjet routes I booked offered regular assigned seats in enclosed seating carriages of six or shared sleeper cars with bunks of four or six. I tried both.

For my ride from Berlin to Vienna, I booked a $40 regular seat inside a seating carriage with six seats facing each other.

The seats didn't recline enough to be fully flat, and the small space felt like a tight squeeze for six people with limited legroom. I didn't sleep at all.

"The quality of travel depends not only on the carriages but also on the route," OBB Nightjet wrote in a statement to Business Insider. "We recommend the sleeper or couchette car for night travel. There is enough space to stretch out. Seated carriages are recommended for shorter journeys."

A few days later, I slept in a bunk inside a shared sleeping cabin for up to six people when traveling from Vienna to Venice for $84.

I still felt cramped in the 74-square-foot space, but having a lie-flat bed made sleeping a bit easier. I thought it was worth the higher price tag.

A year later, I traveled back to Europe to try out Nightjet's new overnight fleet with private cabins. I booked a room for myself from Venice to Vienna for $200. The added price for space and privacy made it worth the price tag.

My first two overnight Amtrak rides between NYC and Miami had WiFi on board. So when I got to my Amtrak train in Denver for my ride to Salt Lake City, I was surprised to find this route didn't include WiFi.

In hindsight, I should have checked if I'd have an internet connection before boarding. Had I known I wouldn't, I'd have downloaded some TV shows and movies for the journey.

While overnight train rides can feel exhausting, I think avoiding these mistakes in the future will make me feel cozier on my next sleeper train adventure.

Red carpets welcome all guests on their overnight journeys, complete with lavishly decorated vintage carriages, fine-dining restaurants, and jaw-dropping views of passing scenery.

However, only the grand suites offer guests luxurious amenities such as private showers and around-the-clock butler services.

Over the past few years, Belmond has seen a spike in demand for its trains. Franklin told BI that the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express has become especially popular, with bookings growing 10% from 2023 to 2024.

The train's flashy grand suites have concurrently piqued the interest of wealthy travelers — according to Franklin, they're often the first accommodations to be booked. And for good reason.

The accommodations, first introduced in 2018, each have a unique design inspired by a city on the train's routes.

For example, the Venice, Italy-themed suite fuses Italian Baroque and Renaissance designs. Venetian furniture, vintage glass light fixtures, and a marriage of silk and woven fabrics fill the room with a historic Italian ambiance. The headboard combines arches and sharp edges, a nod to the country's Renaissance castles.

Similarly, the Budapest suite features Gothic and Ottoman architectural styles, with ornate marquetry and embroidered silk-patterned furniture. The tall, curved headboard recalls the cathedrals and mosques of the Ottoman Empire.

Most of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express accommodations have shared restrooms without access to a shower.

But there's no need to share in the grand suites — the private bathrooms all have a rainfall showerhead, a glass-blown sink, and heated marble flooring.

The train has three restaurant cars. Guests staying in these high-end accommodations can instead dine in the privacy of their suite and unwind.

Staying in the luxurious moving hotel room also includes welcome caviar, 24-hour butler service, and bottomless Champagne.

Travelers are increasingly spending big for unique, high-end vacations.

To capitalize on this, Belmond added two grand suites to its Scottish train, the Royal Scotsman, in 2024.

The new accommodations were "exceptionally well-received," Franklin said — so much so that the company is now building more to debut in 2025.

I began searching for hotel rates for my Jackson Hole trip in early August. Prices skyrocketed for winter dates at nearly every accommodation I considered, and flight costs doubled from mid-October to mid-November.

Teton County's peak seasons are summer and winter. Its proximity to Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks makes it a popular destination for hiking and skiing.

But I'm not a skier, so I thought a fall booking would help me stretch my budget as far as possible.

For those not interested in winter sports, I think the weather in September was ideal for spending time outside. With temperatures ranging from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit, I was comfortable in two layers underneath a light jacket.

During this shoulder season of travel, there are fewer crowds than in peak visiting times, too, local real-estate agent Sam Haack told Business Insider.

On August 19, I booked round-trip flights from JFK Airport to Jackson Hole Airport (JAC) with American Airlines. The economy seats on connecting flights cost $650 with flight insurance.

My flight left NYC on September 16 — less than a month after booking. In hindsight, I should have snagged them a little sooner to potentially save more.

I spent $330 on seven rideshare cabs to get around town during the trip.

More than anything else in Jackson Hole, I wanted to stay at Hotel Yellowstone.

The adults-only hotel overlooking the Tetons and Snake River Valley opened just a month before my stay. And the photos online were so alluring that I simply had to take my own.

The four-acre resort has 36 rooms with private balconies. Depending on the view, the starting rates range from $900 to $1,600 a night, a company representative told BI.

I wanted a room with unobstructed views of the valley and the Tetons, which incurred the highest price point — nearly double the average room rate across Jackson Hole that month.

A representative of Fora Advisor, a travel agency that works with hotels to provide perks for travelers, told BI that the average cost per night in Jackson Hole in September 2024 was $845.

Though BI received a media rate for the one-night stay, it was one of the most expensive hotel rooms in Jackson Hole and the highest bill on my trip.

So, I made the most of it.

When it comes to luxury accommodations, I've been around. I've booked the top-rated resorts in Arizona and stayed in celebrity-loved hotels in Miami, Quebec City, and Milan.

After five years of sampling the finest accommodations in travel hot spots worldwide, Hotel Yellowstone still managed to wow me.

I was in awe of my room the moment I stepped inside. The space was designed to keep the mountains in view at every angle — from the bed to the bathtub.

When I stay at a luxury hotel, it's hard to resist booking a spa appointment. But they can take a good chunk out of your budget — some 40-minute treatments at Hotel Yellowstone cost more than $200.

Once I saw my Calacatta marble bathroom, I knew I wouldn't be giving in this time. The midcentury modern space had heated floors, towel warmers, a high-tech bidet, a roomy rainfall shower, and an oversize tub with a sliding door to view the mountains outside.

With a thick robe in the closet, I made my own spa day inside my hotel room. I set mood lighting using smart controls in my room, played calming music, and drew a bath with the sliding door open.

When it was time to dry off, I avoided goosebumps by wrapping myself in a warm towel as I stepped onto the heated marble floor. It was no massage, but afterward, I felt relaxed and refreshed.

The serene experience came with a high price tag, so I stayed on the Hotel Yellowstone property from check-in to check-out to make the most of my time there and avoid spending more money.

The hotel had a calming, heated pool and a wooden sauna that were free to use at all hours. But I spent most of the time in my room.

On my oversize balcony, I slouched into cozy seating and let the landscape provide most of my entertainment. During the day, I spotted a herd of cattle grazing the valley below. The hues on the mountain shifted through sunset, and at night, I had a faint view of the northern lights gliding across the sky.

I had dinner at the most breathtaking restaurant I've ever been to — Olivia's, the guest-only restaurant beneath the lobby of Hotel Yellowstone. The room had a marble bar and floor-to-ceiling windows covering two walls. It felt like dining outside without enduring the elements.

Olivia's was an eclectic restaurant serving local ingredients. Since my hotel stay included complimentary breakfast, I decided to go all-out on dinner. I spent about $75, including tip, on short rib bao buns, Toffee pudding with cinnamon butter gelato, and a nostalgic Shirley Temple.

The next morning, my steel-cut oats and coffee were complimentary — and so was the moose sighting right outside the window.

Day one was an expensive night, so on the morning of day two, I needed a free activity. I took a cab to Downtown Jackson to window shop and people-watch.

I started in the town square, a small park with antler-arched entryways. Children danced as street performers played guitars.

I found public art on every corner. Sculptures of horses and cowboys paired with Old Western-inspired architecture made me feel like I was in an outdoor museum.

The streets surrounding the square were lined with shops and restaurants. The cowboy culture was in full swing as I passed Western apparel boutiques and rustic, chic furniture stores.

While wandering these blocks, I didn't take out my wallet once. Instead, I simply gathered inspiration. At clothing stores, I paid attention to how layers were arranged and draped over mannequins. In furniture stores, I searched for unique color palettes and decorative arrangements.

When I found something I liked, I snapped a picture for future reference.

To save on food, I fueled up during breakfast so I could wait until late afternoon to eat lunch or early dinner. I went to Bin 22, a tapas restaurant with a wine shop and specialty grocer inside. My lunch cost about $35, but it tasted more expensive.

To start, I had a house-pulled mozzarella appetizer with sea salt and balsamic glaze. Paired with toasted bread, it was simple and delicious. And the mozzarella tasted so fresh that I couldn't believe I was in Wyoming and not New York or Italy.

I enjoyed my main course even more. The avocado lentil salad was impeccably balanced with a refreshing lemon-garlic aioli.

After a day well spent in Downtown Jackson, I headed to Teton Village, one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Jackson Hole, where the Four Seasons is located.

I booked a guest room with a balcony, which had a starting price of $715 a night at the time of booking, though BI received a media rate for the one-night stay.

It was my first time staying at the luxury hotel chain, and I was surprised when a Four Seasons representative told me that each location is uniquely designed to serve the destination. She said the Four Seasons Jackson Hole went for a "modern mountain chic" — and I think it delivered.

My 550-square-foot room was a place where midcentury modern luxury met Western interior design. It had a magnificent king-sized bed, a roomy marble bathroom, a gas fireplace, and plush, cozy seating. At the back of the room was a small balcony with views of Rendezvous Mountain.

The room was less impressive than the Hotel Yellowstone room, and the view was less dramatic. But I thought it had a great value for a significantly lower price point.

Before checking out on the morning of day three, I headed downstairs for breakfast at Westbank Grill. Although my booking didn't include a complimentary meal, I appreciated that I could grab a bite at this restaurant inside the hotel.

Like all the food I'd had on my trip, I felt fueled by fresh-tasting ingredients. I started with freshly squeezed orange juice with a perfectly balanced sweet-tart flavor.

For my meal, I had multigrain avocado toast stacked with burrata, marinated heirloom tomatoes, and crispy asparagus. It was paired with a small salad and a poached egg.

Avocado toast is my go-to item on breakfast menus, and this one had a greater variety of texture and flavor than most I've tried.

After two lavish and expensive nights, I budgeted my trip with the cheapest accommodation I could find — a $150-a-night, queen-sized bunk in a hostel.

Although booking this stay allowed me to splurge on my other two hotels, I was a bit nervous about a drastic shift in comfort and privacy — especially since I'd never stayed in a hostel before.

Upon arrival, I quickly learned that even the hostels in Jackson Hole have an upscale vibe. Cache House is designed to elevate the typical European hostel experience.

Once I stepped inside, I knew I had nothing to worry about.

The hostel was located in the basement of the Anvil Hotel. Inside, it was clean and modern with a touch of Western flair. There was a spacious communal space, a large bathroom with private shower and toilet stalls, high-end toiletries, and locked storage spaces.

I intentionally booked my low-budget stay on the final night because I thought I might not sleep as well and would be able to nap on the plane ride home. But thanks to a night of deep sleep, I was awake the whole way back to NYC.

When I sat on the bed in my top bunk, I didn't want to get up. Like my other two stays, the mattress was firm with just enough give. And wool bedding made it just as cozy.

I also credit my good night's rest to the unexpected level of privacy. My bunk felt like a secluded nook with light and soundproof curtains. I slept for eight hours, which is more rest than I normally get at home.

Although Cache House didn't have the resort amenities of my other stays, it was located in the walkable downtown area, so there was plenty to see and do.

Since I'd already spent so much time walking around, I realized I had gotten to know the streets. I was able to navigate downtown without using Google Maps.

I was impressed with myself for truly getting a feel for the town in such a short time.

While perusing storefronts, I spotted the Bistro, a restaurant run by the same company as Bin 22. Since I enjoyed my lunch the day before, I decided on the local fine-dining spot for my final meal of the trip.

It was probably the least healthy meal I had in Jackson Hole, but it was worth it. I started my meal with a sparkling, non-alcoholic rosé, which tingled my palette for the main event — the weekly special.

It was a fried chicken dish with buttery mashed potatoes and corn on the cob. The chicken was everything I wanted it to be — crispy, tender, and rich in flavor. The portion was generous for a fine-dining restaurant in my experience. It came with a thigh, a breast, and a drumstick.

I spent $63, including tip, on this filling dinner, and I wish I could have finished it all.

Booking my trip during shoulder season, diversifying accommodation types, and opting for free activities allowed me to stretch my money far. And I'll use the same budget model for future getaways.

I could have checked in online for free, but I wanted to print my boarding pass at the airport.

Aside from people in line to board an aircraft, I hardly saw anyone.

I was among the last to board and got situated in my seat right around midnight.

I paid extra to select a window seat before the flight so that I could lean against the window to rest.

It felt like a standard plane seat to me.

The seat pitch was between 27 and 32 inches, according to the representative.

Although I spent most of the time trying to sleep, I appreciated having the screen.

In fact, I noticed many of the seats were empty.

Amenity prices ranged from $3.50 to $6.50.

I woke several times through the night.

Unlike most economy aircraft bathrooms I've used, the floor wasn't sticky and the trash can wasn't overflowing. 

I found that food and beverages weren't included in the price of my ticket, so I decided to skip it.

Still, when I got off the plane, I felt completely exhausted due to a lack of sleep.

The flight was comfortable and clean, and landing early was a nice bonus.

Even after a night of sleep, I found that the exhaustion from the overnight flight — combined with jet lag — lasted for days. This wasn't ideal at the start of a two-week adventure.

My exhaustion wore off within a couple of days of my trip, but I had a lingering thought — next time I fly internationally, I won't mind spending a little more money and a little less time at my destination for a day flight.

The 63-year-old hotel chain has a luxurious reputation and 133 locations worldwide, each designed to reflect its destination.

"There's a sense of place at every Four Seasons," Kim Cole, the director of public relations for the Four Seasons, told Business Insider.

Cole added that the company describes the Jackson Hole location's aesthetic as "modern mountain chic," catering to hikers, bicyclists, and skiers in the winter.

The hotel has 106 guest rooms and 18 suites. The starting rate is $525 in the offseason and $995 in the peak winter season. BI received a media rate for a one-night stay.

There are also 31 Resort Residences on-site, built to serve large groups. These residences have kitchens and as many as five bedrooms. Starting prices range from $4,200 to $11,000, depending on the season.

Cole told BI that in the winter, guest rooms are typically booked with active guests who participate in winter sports, so I imagined how the room would feel as a skier.

My room had a king-sized bed, a full bathroom, and a private balcony.

Renovated by Wimberly Interiors in 2022, the guest rooms were designed to bring the outside in, with metal accents, stone finishings, and a soft, earth-toned color palette. This nature-inspired trend, known as biophilic design, gained traction in 2024.

The king-sized bed sat between mixed material nightstands with edgy lamps contrasting classic wooden shutters.

With one king-sized bed, the room sleeps up to three adults (or two adults and one kid). The room can also be arranged with two double beds, increasing the maximum occupancy to four adults (or two adults and two kids).

The headboard was the standout piece in the room. A cherry wood frame juxtaposed a bright, white image, giving it a midcentury modern look.

The image was a textured carving of trees that I could feel when I brushed my fingers over the branches. A light bar glowed beneath the board, making it easier to see the details of the monochrome image.

The tablet on the nightstand served as the room's control center, commanding everything from the TV to room service. This amenity was added in the 2022 remodel.

The tablet would be especially handy after an exhausting day on the slopes.

Few things are more relaxing on a snow day than cozying up with a good book.

Luckily, my room had a small selection of biographies, historical literature, and novels ranging from realistic fiction to young-adult fantasy.

Publishing dates for these books ranged from 2003 to 2020, but I thought they looked much older. They were all sleeveless with a white or off-white binding.

Rustic drawers were to the left of the fireplace, while a modern sitting area was on the right.

I noticed all the seating in my room was soft and cushy, which seemed ideal for sore bodies after an active day.

The bar had an espresso machine, neutral-toned ceramic mugs, and Four Seasons branded water.

Beneath the bar, a cabinet hid the mini-fridge. It was stocked with alcohol and snacks like peanut M&Ms and gummy bears, which were available for an extra cost.

The bathroom had complimentary Le Labo toiletries.

The mirrors and vanities were replaced by Wimberly Interiors in 2022.

I spotted old-school amenities like a shoe horn and shine brush, which I've seen more often in high-end European accommodations than in the US.

The ample size of the bathroom and closet made the room suitable for up to four guests.

I spent some time on the deck, but since I imagined it would be less enjoyable in the cold, I appreciated that there were sliding glass doors to enjoy the view without the low temperatures.

From the balcony, I spotted the slopes towering over the resort's courtyard.

Looking down, I pictured the green courtyard in a blanket of snow as bundled-up skiers got their bearings before hitting the slopes.

"I think the etiquette is that first class is about indulgence," Ott told Business Insider.

Ott doesn't recommend asking flight attendants whether each bonus offering is free because everything is complimentary, from meals to sparkling wine.

And there's nothing wrong with "filling your boots" to make the most of the perks, he added.

While first-class passengers often get personalized experiences and are greeted by name, business-class flyers shouldn't expect the same level of attention.

"Business class is about efficiency. It's a comfortable seat where you can sleep or work," Ott said.

Staff members serve dozens of people in business class, while first-class cabins typically seat fewer than 10 passengers, he added.

"There's a lot of work that goes into all those meals and drinks," Ott said. "So if you're looking for an over-the-top experience, then first class is where you can expect staff to make the flight awesome. And that's what you're paying for."

If you've flown recently, you may have noticed that many business- and first-class cabins have added doors to each seat to give passengers more privacy.

Ott said you shouldn't infringe on another traveler's space to fetch items from overhead bins.

"Don't awkwardly hover over the person because the whole idea of doors is that people can't look in on you," Ott said. "So when you wake up and someone is looking over your space, it's odd."

BI previously reported that premium-cabin passengers are often entitled to overhead-bin space, and according to Ott, the bins are usually not too crowded. But that doesn't mean you should bring extra bags and put them wherever you want, as Ott has seen many passengers do.

Instead, Ott suggests keeping your limited belongings in the space above your seat.

Just 15 minutes from the traffic-filled streets of Downtown Jackson, I didn't even hear the hum of a highway as I stepped out of my cab to check in at Hotel Yellowstone.

On a hill above a valley surrounded by mountains, 10 modern buildings with a cabin aesthetic sat between stone paths. A pond in the middle of the property made it feel serene.

There were no voices or pitter-patters of running feet. I only heard chirping birds and wind rustling the leaves of tall trees.

Most hotels I've stayed in have had at least one large pool where clusters of people lounge by the steps while others swim laps or play games. I typically find them chaotic, noisy, and tough to avoid a splash when passing through.

That wasn't the case at Hotel Yellowstone. This resort's pool, called the Negative Edge Pool, was just 4 feet deep and had jets and heating. It was indoors and overlooked a mountain scene with a retractable glass window. Though shallow, the pool was quite long. I thought it was spacious enough for multiple groups to enjoy simultaneously.

Next to the pool, there was a wood sauna. Both were open 24 hours a day, which surprised me since most hotels I've stayed in have had a pool curfew. I imagine this is partly because no children are on the property.

It was instantly clear to me that my room was designed to showcase the views as much as possible when I stepped inside.

The door opened into a short hallway with a bathroom on the left, behind a spacious bedroom and living space. Light poured in from a large window on the left wall and floor-to-ceiling windowed doors to the balcony spanning the back of the room.

Even the bathroom had a sliding door in front of the oversized tub, so I could gaze at the peaks of the Tetons and the valleys below while taking a bath.

"The room layout, windows, wall-to-wall sliding doors, and the beautifully crafted boiserie bathroom door enable guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning views from every angle of the suite," a hotel representative told BI.

In my experience, hotel restaurants are typically open to the public, so I was surprised to learn that only guests could sit at Olivia's, a fine-dining establishment at Hotel Yellowstone with an eclectic menu and locally sourced ingredients.

When it was time for dinner, I headed to the lobby and walked down a staircase to the restaurant on the first floor. I was mesmerized by the indoor-outdoor feel provided by the vast windows. Below the wood-beamed cathedral ceilings, the wide view of the mountains looked like a painting.

No one else was dining at Olivia's when I stepped inside, so I could sit wherever I wanted. I selected a spot right by the back window and feasted on bao buns in silence.

I returned to Olivia's for some fruit and steel-cut oats in the morning. This time, one other guest, a solo backpacker, sat two tables away from me. It was a far cry from the clattering plates and blending conversations of a typical hotel breakfast, in my experience.

After dinner, I took a peaceful walk back to my room, coated myself in a thick robe, and headed to the balcony. I expected to hear whispers of other guests enjoying the outdoor view, but it was just as silent and peaceful as when I first stepped onto the property.

Sitting in a lounge chair, I noticed a faint flutter of color in the sky and immediately jumped up and leaned on the railing. Purple and green hues danced so subtly that I had to confirm what I thought I was seeing with a long exposure on my camera. And it appears that I was right — I had spotted the northern lights in Wyoming of all places.

Seeing the auroras has been on my bucket list since I knew the phenomenon existed. And no matter where you are in the world, a trip to see the northern lights is never guaranteed. So, I certainly never thought I'd stumble upon them in the US.

I could hardly see them with my eyes alone, and I thought that if the environment hadn't been so free of distractions, I might have missed them.

I'd never seen a moose before having breakfast at Olivia's.

There I was, dining at a table against the back window, when a moose casually walked along the property just outside the restaurant.

I was stunned, but my server was not — they said the moose hangs out regularly and is often seen swimming in the pond and drying off in the flower beds.

After staying there myself, I could see why. The kid-free environment was calm and quiet. I imagine the serene nature of the resort could make wildlife more comfortable in the human setting.

I thought the adults-only element was key to having these surreal moments with nature without sacrificing comfort and luxury.

Perhaps the serenity of the adults-only resort overlooking Grand Teton National Park and Snake Valley is to thank. It was the quietest hotel I'd ever been to.

I thought it epitomized cozy mountain luxury.

"The overall design style can be best described as a harmonious blend of tranquility, serenity, and modern sophistication," the representative said of the rooms.

Each accommodation is 600 square feet, sleeps two, and has a private balcony.

Depending on the view, starting rates range between $900 and $1,600 a night. Some rooms offer views of the mountains, while others are positioned toward the valley. Some showcase the pond on the property, and others combine multiple scenes.

I booked a room with views of the Teton Range. BI received a media rate for the one-night stay.

Wide, floor-to-ceiling windows stretched across the back wall and a portion of the left wall.

"The color palette for the walls, furniture, and bathroom was thoughtfully chosen to highlight the surrounding landscape and the unparalleled views of the Teton Mountain range," the hotel representative said.

When I took off my shoes, I felt the soft give of the cushy carpet beneath me.

My room had all the basic amenities you'd expect at a high-end hotel, from an espresso machine to a mini-fridge. A TV hung above a fireplace across from the bed.

I spotted nods to the environment, too. The representative said the floor lamp that resembled antlers came from AntlerWorx, and the furry accent chairs were made from pure New Zealand sheepskin.

"Both pieces showcase natural materials and textures with the Moose Antler lamp serving as a tribute to local wildlife — particularly the seasonal resident moose who frequents the property," they added.

The balcony was my favorite part of the accommodation. The spacious upper deck had two cushioned lounge chairs and a side table.

The view of the valley dotted with herds beneath the Teton range was one of the most epic I'd ever seen.

Unlike most hotel balconies I've experienced, the space was quiet. Not even cars on the highway were audible from the resort. And I didn't hear one voice the entire time I was out there.

I'm not typically one for baths, but the Calacatta marble bathroom was spa-like. While warm water filled the large, free-standing tub, I turned on the floor and towel heaters to ensure top-tier comfort upon exiting the bath.

The bathroom was behind the bed with a sliding door in front of the tub, so I could view the Tetons while bathing.

"The room layout, windows, wall-to-wall sliding doors, and the beautifully crafted boiserie bathroom door enable guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning views from every angle of the suite," the representative said.

I always look forward to hotel robes, and this one was more comfortable than most. It was made of thick fabric that felt like soft terry cloth.

Once I dried off, I jumped onto the cloud-like king-sized bed that felt endless when I cuddled up in the middle.

I grabbed the tablet on the nightstand with smart controls for the room, from mood lighting and curtains to room service.

With a plan to relax for just a bit, I turned on the TV for one episode of Modern Family.

Minutes later, I was fast asleep.

I woke up as the sun was setting and promptly headed outside in my robe to catch the end of it.

Once it was dark, I saw something I'd never seen before — and never thought I would see in the US — faint streaks of purple and green glided among the stars. I think it was the northern lights.

I could barely see them myself, but once I took a 30-second exposure on my camera, I was pretty sure I was right.

The northern lights were a massive surprise that made my stay even more meaningful. The quiet, peaceful resort made them even more mesmerizing.

Ott told BI that Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is among the best US airports for layovers thanks to its premium lounges, from Amex Centurion to Delta Sky Club.

"It's one of those places where if you do have a layover and you really need to kill time, there are both top-notch lounges and an airport hotel directly in the terminal," Ott said.

DFW is also home to one of Ott's favorite US airport lounges, Capital One Lounge.

Some of the worst airports for layovers are small regional airports.

"I think there's a just inherent advantage to being a big airport because big airports can attract retail," he said.

As an example, Ott mentioned that he often has connecting flights through Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky, which has only two runways.

"I've been there a lot. It's not a fun place to wait for flights," he said. "You have nothing to do."

Those with a tight layover may appreciate that Blue Grass Airport has the shortest walk to the gate in the US at just 0.11 miles.

"I like Seattle-Tacoma Airport because they've done a really good job of cultivating more local stores and Seattle-centric things," Ott said. "If you've got an hour and 45 minutes, it's easy to kill time there."

BI previously reported that the airport's shops pay homage to the Pacific Northwest experience, with stores like Show Pony, Made in Washington, and Discover Puget Sound.

Ott said he'd spent his layovers at the Northwestern airport sifting through records at a music store and sampling Washington state wines at a bar.

"It doesn't feel as sterile and generic as some airports. You actually get a sense of Seattle. It's not just an airport somewhere," Ott said.

No one wants to put their trip on pause over delays and cancellations — especially in a connecting airport.

According to Ott, this may be more likely to happen when flying out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia due to frequent storms. And the fact that it's the busiest airport in the world probably doesn't help; the airport has had mass cancellations in summers and winters due to storms.

"I've had hellacious experiences in Atlanta because of the weather," Ott said. "It's a good airport in the sense that there are lots of flights and places to kill time. It's a bad airport in the sense that it's caught up in more storms than most airports."

Ott added that the airport has plenty of amenities but can be overwhelming to navigate.

"There are so many terminals, and you're taking a tram everywhere. They have some nice stuff in them, but it's a hike," he said.

According to Ott, some airports don't allow passengers to travel between terminals they're not departing from.

Since many travelers don't leave the airport between connecting flights, waiting to board can be a drag for those flying out of terminals with few shops, restaurants, and amenities. Ott told BI that international terminals typically have better amenities than domestic ones.

The terminals are connected at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is why it's one of the best US airports for layovers.

Domestic travelers "can still go to the international terminal, which has better food, shops, and lounges," he said. "You can kill time at LAX for hours."

LAX's Tom Bradley International Terminal (Terminal B) was updated in 2023. BI previously reported that the terminal has comfy seating — each with its own power ports — a range of food and bar options, and an exceptional Sky Club.

The upgrade included adding a walkway connecting Terminal 3, which also received an upgrade, to Terminal B. The walk takes five to 20 minutes, so there's no need to catch a bus. This is an especially useful perk for those catching an international connecting flight.

"London Heathrow Airport is an atrocious airport for connections — one of the worst in the world, by far," Ott said. Why? Getting from one terminal to another is a journey in itself.

"Some terminals are miles apart, and there is no tram that runs between all of them," he said.

According to the airport's website, getting from one terminal to another can take more than 40 minutes.

For example, Ott said if you land in Terminal 3 with British Airways, you may connect in Terminal 5.

"You have to go through Terminal 3 and take a bus, which can take up to 30 minutes to arrive. Then, you'll take a long bus ride all around the airport to the other side," he said. "And then you may still end up with another tram or bus ride because Terminal 5 has three terminals within it — A, B, and C."

"It's an impossible airport for short connections," Ott added.

"For best, Singapore Changi Airport is just untouchable," Ott said.

Ott added that the best airport for layovers worldwide has a range of shops, hotels, dining, and activities.

"Some of the best local food is at the airport because the famous places in Singapore set up locations there," he said.

While waiting for connecting flights, travelers can access a pool, a movie theater, and a butterfly garden.

The real spectacle, however, is probably the Jewel — a retail and entertainment complex connected to Terminal 1. The Jewel seems like a destination itself with a hedge maze, a topiary walk, and a ropes course. And the centerpiece is the Rain Vortex — the world's largest indoor waterfall spanning seven stories.

"You can spend an hour just looking at that," Ott said of the Rain Vortex. "I would have a layover there any day."

Culdesac sits on the east side of Tempe, a suburb roughly 10 miles from Phoenix, also home to Arizona State University.

During my visit, I met with CEO and cofounder Ryan Johnson. After years of working in the real estate and transportation industries — and traveling to walkable places worldwide — he was inspired to create a neighborhood free of cars.

From New York City to Budapest, Johnson said his travels launched a passion for cities.

"I saw those places and said, 'Wow, this is a much better way to build a city — with thoughtful architecture, great transportation systems,'" he told BI.

Johnson added that developments in the transportation industry, from ride-share apps to public transit systems and electric bikes, have made living car-free possible in places like Arizona.

Johnson, who grew up in Phoenix and currently lives at Culdesac, hasn't had a car in 14 years.

Visitors and delivery drivers can park their cars at Culdesac, but residents cannot.

The company representative told BI that for residents with cars, "it's regulated through their lease agreement that they won't park on-site or on any public streets within 0.25 miles."

Some residents park their cars elsewhere in Tempe, while others, like Johnson, don't have a vehicle. Residents get around on foot, bicycles, electric bikes and scooters. The neighborhood has more than 1,000 bike parking spots.

One Culdesac resident previously told BI that living without a car can be challenging outside the neighborhood, as the surrounding city was built for vehicles.

However, according to the company's website, Culdesac provides residents with a mobility package worth almost $3,000 annually to make transportation easier. It includes a complimentary Valley Metro pass for the light rail that goes through Phoenix and Tempe and discounts on ride-share apps like Lyft and Waymo, a self-driving cab service.

The plaza, located across from the neighborhood light rail stop, is the communal center of Culdesac. It's marked by a sculpture by artist Matthew Salenger that doubles as a canopy.

Thursday nights at Culdesac light up with a public outdoor night market called Little Cholla. The weekly event features live music, local vendors like food trucks, and dancing.

A two-story building in the plaza with giant windows houses the neighborhood fitness center. It has workout classes and is lined with equipment.

From thrifted clothing to unique dishware and candles, there's plenty of local shopping at Culdesac.

According to the company's website, there are more than a dozen micro-retail shops, including a market, a laundromat, a medical spa, an art studio, and a plant shop.

The company representative told BI that the small-business owners at Culdesac are residents, and some even live in their stores thanks to a zoning permit that allows them to do so.

All the stores have kitchens and bathrooms, and some have bedrooms.

In April 2023, Culdesac's Cocina Chiwas opened. It's a family-owned Mexican restaurant serving Chihuahuan cuisine.

It's no secret that the Phoenix area is hot — sometimes dangerously so in the summers. So Culdesac was built to keep pedestrians cool without asphalt — a road material that gets hotter in the sun.

Culdesac intentionally placed the buildings close together to create as much shade as possible.

The buildings' color is also no accident. Culdesac chose white because it reflects sunlight rather than absorbs it.

More than half of the entire property is open, landscaped space.

Culdesac currently has 172 units. More will open in the fall, and the neighborhood will eventually have 760 units.

Studios start at $1,300 a month, one-bedrooms are $1,400, two-bedrooms are $2,100, and three-bedrooms are $2,900 monthly.

Archer's Bike Shop sells manual and electric bikes. And Culdesac residents get complementary services and product discounts.

After my visit to Culdesac, I chatted with Brad Biehl, a 24-year-old resident from Colombus, Ohio. Biehl has lived in the neighborhood for six months. He said one of the best parts of living there is the sense of community.

"We're usually in environments where we walk from our door to our car and from the car into the place," Biehl said. "But here, to go anywhere, I usually pass at least two or three of my neighbors, even when I'm just walking to the light rail right around the corner."

Biehl added that he's optimistic about the future of Culdesac when more residents and retailers come in.

"While there are still not a ton of people here yet, there's way more going on than I would've expected there to be," he told BI. "The number of serendipitous interactions that have taken place with the limited number of residents makes me super excited for what people will experience here."

Cache House is in Downtown Jackson, a walkable neighborhood full of boutiques, restaurants, and, in my experience, traffic.

While Hotel Yellowstone is less than 15 minutes north of the bustling square, it's tucked away in a scenic area with expansive properties. I thought it provided a more isolated experience.

I booked a one-night stay at Hotel Yellowstone about a month after it opened. When my cab pulled up, I could tell it was a brand-new establishment.

Between buildings, lush, extravagant landscaping framed a glistening pond that attracted wildlife — from ducks to moose.

I entered a neutral-toned lobby with cathedral ceilings to check into the hotel. The space had an array of cozy seating, from fur seats to cushioned rocking chairs.

"Hotel Yellowstone's design pays homage to the American West while seamlessly blending influences of modern design," a representative of Hotel Yellowstone told Business Insider.

Hills and mountains layered the distant landscape, and a rich, green valley brightened the foreground. It looked like a photograph.

Hotel Yellowstone had nine guest room buildings with four accommodations in each. Each room was 600 square feet and had a private balcony — the main difference between each is the view.

I booked a room with a balcony facing the Teton Range. It had a plush, king-sized bed, a full bathroom, two seating spaces, and glass doors for nonstop views of the mountains.

The accommodation had basic amenities like a TV, a mini fridge, and a fireplace. I used the in-room smart tablet to close the curtains, ignite the fireplace, activate mood lighting, and change the channel.

"The intricate design components pull inspiration from Jackson Hole's history, proximity to national parks, and locale on a wildlife refuge — allowing guests to view Jackson Hole's native animals from the comfort of their suites," the Hotel Yellowstone representative told BI.

The Carrara marble bathroom had floor and towel heaters. A stand-alone rainfall shower was stocked with Byredo toiletries. A large, deep tub sat behind a sliding door, revealing the outdoor views.

At most hotels I've stayed in, the on-site restaurants are open to the public. Still, Hotel Yellowstone's resto, Olivia's, was exclusively for hotel guests.

It was on the lower level of the main building beneath the lobby. As I stepped down the stairs, I spotted an elegant marble bar with couch seating. Just past the bar was a dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows.

Dining at this establishment that locally sources ingredients almost felt like dining outside — without the discomforts of weather and bugs.

The pool — open 24 hours a day, along with the sauna — was made for relaxing. Known as the Negative Edge Pool, it was indoors with retractable glass windows overlooking the valley and surrounding mountains.

To get to Cache House, I went to the Anvil Hotel, which has existed since the 1950s.

In the 1970s, a bunkhouse opened in the basement of the hotel. Then, in 2020, that bunkhouse opened as the "modern, elevated interpretation of the classic European hostel" Cache House, a company representative told BI.

I checked in at the Anvil Hotel, and a staff member walked me around the side of the building and down an outdoor staircase into the basement.

My key card unlocked the door to the hostel.

The door at the bottom of the steps opened into a massive, brightly-lit room with a mix of midcentury modern and old Western pieces and accents.

Cache House hired Brooklyn-based Post Company to give the room a sleek, functional look.

Geometric-patterned blankets were laid over black leather futons with wooden feet. Modern built-ins displayed albums behind a rustic, wooden dining table. Rugs and throws added pops of color to the space.

All Cache House bookings include a private locker for belongings. With just a backpack and a medium-sized duffel bag, there was plenty of space I didn't use.

The shared space had several private stalls with a toilet, sink, and shower. And like at Hotel Yellowstone, the bathrooms were spotless and had complimentary toiletries from a high-end beauty brand,
C.O. Bigelow.

The hostel's midcentury modern style continued into the bunk room, where wooden ladders with gold accents led up and down 50 bunks, ranging from twin- to queen-sized.

Beneath each pair of bunk beds were two storage drawers — one for each bunk.

I pulled the curtain at the top of the ladder to reveal a nook with a queen-sized bed, a reading light, a shelf, an outlet, and a fan.

It was a far cry from my 600-square-foot haven at Hotel Yellowstone, but I was pleasantly surprised to find that the bunk felt like a tiny room. The curtain blocked sound and light, giving me all the privacy I needed.

The mattress was a bigger surprise. Although a tad smaller, the Cache House bed was just as comfy and plush as Hotel Yellowstone's. With linen and wool bedding, I slept just as soundly and woke up just as refreshed.

I certainly didn't expect my budget hostel stay to have additional amenities, but since it was centrally located in the walkable downtown area, I thought it didn't need to.

I had dinner nearby and spent the evening strolling around the town square, popping inside various boutiques.

Hotel Yellowstone would be ideal for the retreat seeker who craves serenity in solitude.

An adventurer who wants to stay out all day sampling the food, shopping, and culture of Jackson Hole would likely have a better time at the centrally located Cache House.

They'd save a buck and still get a taste of luxury.