In the United States, MICHELIN Inspectors awarded Keys to 289 hotels across the country. Here, find the most affordable.
The MICHELIN Key distinction is akin to the MICHELIN Star for restaurants — it denotes the best of the best. To gain even one Key, a hotel must demonstrate excellence in five factors: architecture and interior design, quality and consistency of service, overall personality and character, a significant contribution to the neighborhood or setting, and value for the price.
While some Key hotels sport a nightly price that can easily rise into the thousands of dollars, others are surprisingly affordable, especially in popular locations like Miami and Washington, D.C.
Set in some of the country's most exciting destinations, these hotels make trip planning simple. Head to each hotel page to see exact prices.
Esmé Miami Beach
Distinction: One KeyLocation: Miami, Florida
This hotel isn't just the most affordable spot in our Miami selection; it takes the top spot as most affordable in our United States picks. Just a few blocks off the beach, this boutique property packs a serious punch for a surprisingly low price (it's often bookable at just over $100). It's definitely not your typical Miami spot with nary an Art Deco reference in sight. Push past the door just beyond the check-in desk and you'll discover a charming courtyard that feels like a portal to Spain. Several restaurants and bars, including a sexy rooftop with a small pool, and a history that even includes Al Capone, and Esmé proves that real style doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.
Book Esmé Miami Beach with The MICHELIN Guide →
Inn at Thorn Hill
Distinction: Two Keys
Location: Jackson, New Hampshire
When you want to get away from it all, this hideaway in the northern woods of New Hampshire is just the spot. It's all charm, with individually designed rooms with fireplaces and two-person tubs, and if the serene setting isn't relaxing enough, the spa will have something to cure your ails.
Book Inn at Thorn Hill with The MICHELIN Guide →
Eaton DC
Distinction: One KeyLocation: Washington, D.C.
A hip hotel with a prime location and a palatable price tag? It's not a dream; it's the Eaton DC. The price tag isn't the only thing that makes this hotel stand out from the pack. Its more bohemian than your typical Beltway bolthole, with a wellness center with acupuncture, a rooftop venue for live music and a restaurant, Michele's, that is far from average (and in our restaurant selection).
Book Eaton DC with The MICHELIN Guide →
Holiday House Palm Springs
Distinction: One Key
Location: Palm Springs, CA
The room categories are Good, Better and Best but the rates at this 28-room boutique hotel are "great," especially in a popular resort like Palm Springs. It's funky and cool with a whisper of retro-chic blended with pops of color plus an impressive art collection (think Hockney and Lichtenstein). The pool is the place to be any time of year (though rates nudge higher in the prime winter months).
Book Holiday House Palm Springs with The MICHELIN Guide →
The Prospect Hollywood
Distinction: One KeyLocation: Hollywood, CA
Interiors styled by celebrity designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard are usually associated with multi-million-dollar price tags, but The Prospect offers that, and more, for a fraction of the price. This 24-room boutique hotel occupies a 1939 Hollywood Regency building that's been given a glow-up thanks to the talented designer. There's nothing shy about the exuberant decor, but this spot does feel like a bit of a secret, especially at these prices which hover under $300 for much of the year.
Book The Prospect Hollywood with The MICHELIN Guide →
Hero Image: Inn at Thorn Hill
