Forbes Travel Guide Announces 2026 Five-Star Hotel Honorees in America
Forbes Travel Guide has revealed the recipients of its prestigious 2026 Star Awards, with five new five-star properties earning accolades across the United States. The awards highlight exceptional luxury experiences in states including Pennsylvania, Arizona, Florida, and Georgia, following rigorous inspections by Forbes inspectors.
New Five-Star Hotels in the United States
The U.S. gains five new five-star hotels for 2026, each offering unique amenities and high-end services. Inspectors evaluated these properties based on up to 900 standards, focusing on service quality, cleanliness, and guest comfort.
- The Chateau at Nemacolin, Farmington, Pennsylvania: This hotel features Paris-inspired rooms starting at approximately $700 per night. Guests enjoy access to two golf courses, blending elegance with recreational opportunities.
- Mii amo, Sedona, Arizona: Located in Boynton Canyon, rooms here begin at around $1,000 nightly. The renowned spa includes a crystal grotto for meditation and offers treatments inspired by Native American rituals, sound therapy, and light therapy.
- The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, Florida: With rooms starting at about $500 per night, this property boasts 65-inch TVs and marble bathrooms. It features 11 on-site restaurants, including the Michelin-starred Knife & Spoon, and a family-friendly outdoor pool with a lazy river.
- Yacht Club at The Boca Raton, Florida: An adult-only, all-suite hotel where prices start at roughly $1,400 per night, offering exclusive luxury for discerning travelers.
- The St. Regis Atlanta, Georgia: Rooms average $900 per night, providing sophisticated accommodations in a prime location.
Global Expansion of Five-Star Properties
Beyond the U.S., Forbes Travel Guide recognized new five-star hotels worldwide. Europe sees four additions, including The Maybourne Riviera in France and Mandarin Oriental properties in Spain and Switzerland. Asia Pacific emerges as a luxury epicenter, accounting for 40% of new five-star hotels, with highlights in Tokyo, Macau, Beijing, Hong Kong, and Kyoto. The Caribbean, Mexico, and the Middle East also gain new five-star entries, such as Wymara Villas in Turks and Caicos and Rosewood Doha.
Additional 2026 Award Highlights
The 2026 awards also feature new five-star restaurants in the U.S., including Atlas Buckhead in Atlanta and Aurelia at Castle Hill in Newport, Rhode Island. Notably, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's Ilma becomes the first five-star cruise, expanding the luxury travel landscape.
Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, commented, Forbes Travel Guide's newest Star Award winners showcase an exciting evolution in luxury. The 2026 list showcases properties deeply committed to delivering consistent and reliable world-class experiences. The guide emphasizes that its ratings are based on thorough inspections, prioritizing exceptional service to distinguish top hospitality offerings.
