Looking for a stellar hotel for your next weekend getaway from Chicago? A luxury resort only an hour from the Windy City just earned a coveted top spot on Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Awards” survey for 2025.
Among the best resorts in the continental U.S., Deer Path Inn—an English-style retreat that opened in Lake Forest, Illinois back in 1929—was ranked No. 13 in the country, earning a score of 96.94 by T+L readers. (In comparison, the number one venue Primland Resort in Meadows of Dan, Virginia scored a near-perfect 99.40.)
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This year, nearly 180,000 readers weighed in on the survey where more than 657,000 votes were cast. Responders rated rooms and facilities, location, service, food, and overall value for over 8,700 properties and then the average was calculated. A golden thread for these responses was that travelers seemed to prioritize access to nature and secluded luxury.
In terms of Deer Path Inn, which is celebrating 95 years of hospitality, readers praised the "quaint" hotel for "its elegant afternoon teas, wood-paneled lounges, and its close proximity to Lake Michigan’s gorgeous shoreline," per the outlet. From the light-and-bright English Room where those teas are served, to the snug basement bar with an inventive cocktail program, to the outdoor garden complete with wildlife sculpture and water fountain, this resort is an extravagant stay that checks all of the boxes.
Along with Primland Resort, Deer Path Inn was joined by similarly illustrious company in the 2025 ranking, including well-loved properties such as The Inn at Mattei’s Tavern in Los Olivos, California (at No. 2), San Ysidro Ranch in Santa Barbara, California (at No. 3), Quisisana Resort in Lovell, Maine (at No. 4) and Triply Creek Ranch in Darby, Montana rounding out the top five.