If you think of all-inclusive resorts and instantly picture Mexican beaches or Caribbean islands, you’re not alone. Plenty of us in New Zealand, and honestly even most folks in America, have the same idea: all-inclusives are a thing you go overseas for, where your every meal and umbrella-topped drink comes with the package. But here’s something that might surprise you—the United States does have its share of all-inclusive hotels and resorts. It’s just that the way they do “all-inclusive” looks different. And truth be told, it can be just as much of a shortcut to a hassle-free holiday, especially if you know what to expect going in.
What Does All-Inclusive Mean in the US?
Lets get the basics out of the way, because the concept of all-inclusive hotels USA isnt as obvious as it sounds. In places like Mexico or Jamaica, youre talking full buffets, drinks (alcoholic and not), pools, activities, and entertainment, all for one price. The American version, though, is a bit of a mixed bag—a combination of truly all-included experiences and ones that sneak in little extras you might not expect to pay for.
Heres the thing: in the US, while there are absolutely classic all-inclusive stays (like Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Florida or Miraval Arizona in Tucson), the idea tends to bend a little more. Some resorts do focus heavily on families, while others appeal to couples or groups looking for adventure, spa time, or even learning new skills (think cooking classes or horsemanship). Typical American all-inclusives do roll meals, drinks, and basic activities into your rate—but it pays to check the fine print. Some places include alcohol, others just offer soft drinks. Some throw in motorised water sports or guided hikes, others might charge extra for premium experiences or spa treatments.
The US is also famous for its dude ranches, especially out West. These ranches often package up meals, horseback riding, fishing, and themed activities in a single price, wrapping you up in a bit of Americana, old-school campfire singing and all. There are also spa resorts (Miraval and Canyon Ranch both have major followings), mountain lodges, and even a handful of grand New England retreats like The Tyler Place in Vermont or the Woodstock Inn, each serving up a different flavor of all-inclusive life.
So, the definition is there—just not quite as strictly applied as you might have found in, say, Punta Cana. Before you book, it really pays to ask for an honest breakdown of whats covered, so you dont get caught out by surprise charges.
Where To Find American All-Inclusive Resorts and What To Expect
The big myth is that all-inclusives are for beaches only, but the US has tucked these into mountains, forests, and even cities. Floridas coastline comes closest to your classic resort style—think beaches, pools, multiple dining spots, kids clubs, tennis courts, and golf greens. Club Med Sandpiper Bay is often pointed out as the only true all-inclusive resort in Florida, and it really throws it all in, from kids camps to unlimited paddleboarding and nightly entertainment.
Move north, and youll stumble on mountain lodges packed with seasonal activities. Some West Coast resorts near Lake Tahoe and in the Rockies give winter all-inclusive a go—sledding, skiing, fireplaces, and hearty meals. Summer mountain ranches serve up packages that let you try your hand at archery, climbing, or just disappear into a spa schedule so full youll wish you had another week.
Heres a quick table showing where youll find popular types of US all-inclusive getaways:
| Region | Type | Famous Examples | Included Extras |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | Classic Beach Resort | Club Med Sandpiper Bay | All meals, drinks, activities, kids' club |
| Arizona/Texas/Montana | Dude/Guest Ranches | Tanque Verde Ranch, The Ranch at Rock Creek | Horseback riding, meals, outdoor sports |
| Vermont/New England | Family Resorts | The Tyler Place, Woodloch Resort (PA) | Meals, kids' programs, group activities |
| Arizona/Massachusetts | Spa/Wellness Resorts | Miraval, Canyon Ranch | Meals, fitness classes, some spa credits |
Keep in mind, extras still pop up. Alcoholic drinks are not always a given at wellness retreats. Some resorts focus their packages tightly on wellness—so the nightly cocktail isnt flowing unless you pay. Activities like private lessons or off-property excursions can carry extra charges. I learned this the hard way when I splurged on a spa day with my friend who lives in California—let me just say, the "all-inclusive" didnt extend to every little service, and my wallet noticed.
Families with little kids praise American all-inclusives because youre not being nickeled and dimed for every meal, lemonade, or kids activity. The childcare or babysitting options at many of these places are seriously next-level. My friend took her twins to Tyler Place in Vermont, and she said it was the first holiday they’d had in years where she didnt finish every day more tired than she started. The kids loved the lake and scavenger hunts, and she got to read a whole book.
If luxury is what you want, skip the big label brands and check out boutique options in places like Aspen, Santa Fe, or the Sonoma wine country. Their idea of all-inclusive tips more toward gourmet food, tasting tours, and activities tailored for the adult crowd (wine blending, anyone?).
Another tip for anyone used to Caribbean or Asian resort prices: US all-inclusives tend to be pricier, especially when you factor in tips (which aren’t always included), resort fees, and sometimes, even parking. The difference is, the facilities and service are usually top-notch, and you won’t have to deal with long airport transfers or different currencies if you’re already in the States.
The seasons make a massive difference, too. Most of these resorts charge a lot less in shoulder seasons—spring and autumn—so if your travel dates are flexible (unlike mine, thanks to the school hols), there are savings to be had.
Tips for Booking All-Inclusive Hotels in the United States
Booking an all-inclusive in the US is really about sussing out what outcome you want from your holiday. Are you hunting for a non-stop activity station for the kids? Or is your idea of bliss a mountain view and massages, where someone else handles your meals?
Here’s how to get the most out of your all-inclusive adventure:
- Check what’s really included: Ask for a sample schedule, menu, or activity list. Get clarity on drinks, tips, and taxes.
- Consider the crowd: Some places skew heavily towards families and toddlers (expect water slides and crafts), while others have strict adults-only or wellness-centered vibes.
- Look at location: If you’re flying in from overseas, consider access—close to airports or major cities is easier with kids in tow.
- Timing is key: School holidays in the US are peak booking times. Shoulder seasons can mean quieter resorts and better deals.
- Read recent reviews: Tripadvisor and Google reviews from the past few months can reveal if a resort is as good as its marketing promises or under renovations and chaos.
- Compare value, not just headline price: Sometimes you’ll be surprised at all the extras bundled at a slightly more expensive resort—like multiple kids’ clubs, included excursions, or better dining options.
- Sign up for loyalty programs: If you have a favorite hotel chain (some Westin, Hyatt, and Marriott resorts do dabble in all-inclusive models), you could score points or perks on top.
- Pack for all weather: American weather can flip in a heartbeat, especially at mountain or lake resorts. I’ve seen snow and sun in the same Vermont weekend.
If you’re craving something truly unique, keep an eye on trends like luxury eco-lodges (some small-group ones in California and Colorado are experimenting with all-inclusive stays), or resorts offering special interest packages—wellness immersions, cooking bootcamps, or even parent-child retreats for picky teens.
There’s plenty to love in the American spin on all-inclusives if you arrive with the right expectations. Plenty of families I know spread their loyalties between Club Med in Florida and rustic New England lake lodges, with everyone from toddlers to grandparents finding a home base. The key thing, according to all my US-based friends and family: don’t be shy about asking exactly what’s covered. Double-check the fine print, get everything in writing, and look up recent photos before you book. The range is huge, but the memories can be just as special as anywhere in the world—sometimes even more, because you’re trading passport stamps for more time in the pool, lake, or hammock, and much less fuss and stress.
So, yes: the United States does have all-inclusive hotels. They might surprise you—maybe not always with endless cocktails at a swim-up bar, but with horseback rides at sunset, canoe races for the kids, and smores around the fire. Sometimes, thats exactly the holiday youll remember.
