Is there anything more soul-stirring than the moment the city lights fade in your rearview mirror and the horizon starts to open up? I don’t know about you, but for me, that’s when the real vacation begins. As an active mom who’s always juggling school schedules, soccer practices, and an endless “to-do” list, I’ve found that the most lasting family memories aren’t made in crowded theme parks or bustling airport terminals. They happen in those quiet, rugged, and beautiful landscapes where the air smells like adventure and you can actually hear yourself think. I call it the “wild side” of travel, and honestly, I’m so excited to tell you about some of my favorite hidden gems that offer exactly that.
There’s a certain magic in the high desert air—that scent of sagebrush and sun-baked earth—and an equal, though different, majesty in a misty mountain outpost. These unique properties in the Curator Hotel & Resort Collection offer more than just a place to sleep. They offer a journey. They offer a sense of discovery that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secret that only a few lucky travelers know.
I’ve always been a believer that travel should be a thoughtful, immersive experience. It’s about exposing yourself and your loved ones to the beauty of the unknown. So, grab a coffee (or a glass of something bubbly!), and let’s explore these incredible retreats that are a little off the beaten path but absolutely worth every mile of the trek.
Edge of the Water, Edge of the World: Heat Hotel
If you haven’t been to Lake Havasu City lately, you are missing out on one of the coolest, most “edgy” boutique experiences in the Arizona desert. The Heat Hotel is perfectly situated right on the water, literally steps away from the historic London Bridge. It’s got this fantastic, chic vibe that feels a bit like a hidden oasis where the desert meets the dock.
What I love about this property is how it embraces its waterfront location with such an infectious energy. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a marina lifestyle. With only 25 rooms, it feels intimate and exclusive, which is exactly what I look for when I want to escape the “busy-ness” of daily life. The rooms are modern and sleek—think “Inferno” suites with fiery red accents and floor-to-ceiling windows, or the “Luxury Studio” with sweeping views of the canal. If you’re traveling with your partner, I think you absolutely must book a room with a private balcony overlooking the bridge. There is nothing like watching the sunset over the water with a cocktail in hand while the desert heat begins to mellow into a cool, refreshing evening breeze.
The “Ann” Experience:
One of the most unique features here is the seamless access to the water. You can actually rent watercraft right from the boat slips in front of the hotel through their local partners! I remember taking the kids out on a pontoon boat from Lake Havasu Boat Rentals for the day—we explored hidden coves, found a quiet spot to swim in the crystal-clear water, and just disconnected from our phones for hours. It was one of those carefully planned afternoons that turned into a core memory for all of us.
If you’re more into a workout, I’d suggest grabbing one of their free cruiser bikes to explore the shoreline path. You can bike all the way to Lake Havasu State Park, which has some wonderful white sand beaches and interpretive trails. For the golfers in the family, the Bridgewater Links Golf Course is practically next door, offering stunning views of the bridge while you play. And for a truly unique perspective of the desert, you absolutely have to book a sunrise flight with Wanderlust Hot Air Balloon Rides. Floating over the lake as the sun hits the red rock mountains is an experience that feels like stepping into a dream.
For dinner, you don’t even have to leave the waterfront. While the hotel’s own Heat Bar is the place to be for a lively atmosphere and great drinks, you’re also within walking distance of Cha-Bones for incredible tapas and steak. It’s the perfect blend of adventurous and relaxing.
A Historic Landmark: Padre Hotel
Sometimes, the best “off the beaten path” finds are right in the heart of a city you might otherwise overlook. Bakersfield, California, might not be the first place you think of for a stylish getaway, but the Padre Hotel will completely change your mind. This historic landmark was built in 1928, and it has been reimagined with a vibe that I can only describe as “sophisticated outlaw.”
It’s rustic-chic at its finest. The architecture is stunning—Spanish Colonial Revival with a modern, edgy twist. From the moment you walk into the lobby and see the giant mural of a cowgirl, you feel the weight of its history, but it’s balanced by a playful, contemporary energy. It’s the kind of place where you might see a traveler in riding boots sharing a drink with a local creative.
The “Ann” Experience:
The dining and nightlife here are, quite frankly, incredible. You have to spend an evening at “Prairie Fire,” their rooftop bar and lounge. It offers amazing views of the iconic Fox Theater Bakersfield across the street. There’s nothing like sitting by the fire pits under the Central Valley stars with a creatively curated cocktail. If you’re looking for a more “saloon-style” experience, “Brimstone” is the spot. I’m a huge fan of their Wagyu sliders and local craft beer selection. It feels like a high-end version of a classic Western haunt.
For those of us who need our morning caffeine fix (guilty!), the “Farmacy Café” on the ground floor is a delight. They partner with Covenant Coffee, a local roastery with a wonderful mission, and their breakfast burritos are the stuff of legends.
To really immerse yourself in the local lore, take a trip to the Kern County Museum. It’s an incredible 16-acre site where you can walk through 56 historic buildings and learn about the “Bakersfield Sound” at the Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace. If you have some extra time, I’d recommend taking a scenic drive out to the Kern River Canyon. Whether you want to try some whitewater rafting or just enjoy a quiet walk along the river, it’s a beautiful contrast to the stylish urbanity of the hotel.
Forest Magic at Salishan Coastal Lodge by SCP
Moving up the coast to Oregon, we find ourselves at a place that truly understands the meaning of “Soul, Community, and Planet.” The Salishan Coastal Lodge by SCP is nestled between the forested bluffs and the tranquil Siletz Bay in Gleneden Beach. If you’re looking for a rugged, beautiful escape that feels deeply connected to the outdoors, this is your destination.
The lodge itself is a masterpiece of Pacific Northwest design—lots of warm wood, stone fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows that let the ancient forest in. It feels like a high-end treehouse for adults. What makes Salishan so special is its commitment to wellness and adventure. They don’t just give you a room; they give you a 250-acre playground to explore.
The “Ann” Experience:
You absolutely must try the Aerial Park! It’s an adventure course suspended high in the trees, and it’s the only one on the Oregon Coast that includes zip lines that fly you straight into the experience. I’ll be honest—I was a little nervous at first, but the thrill of being up in the canopy was absolutely fantastic. It’s such a great way to bond with your kids or your friends. For something a bit more grounded, they have miles of nature trails that wind through old-growth timber and lead down to the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge, a paradise for birdwatching and kayaking.
If you’re a golfer, the Salishan Golf Links is a must-play. It’s an 18-hole course that offers those crisp sea breezes and stunning views that make every swing feel special. And after all that activity? The Spa at Salishan is your sanctuary. I’d suggest a treatment that incorporates local coastal ingredients—it’s the ultimate way to recharge.
For a little local flavor, take a short drive to Lincoln City to visit the Lincoln City Glass Center where you can watch glassblowers at work (or even try it yourself!). A bit further south, the Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area offers a dramatic look at the power of the Pacific Ocean. And if you have the kids in tow, the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport is world-class. It’s all about quality, sustainability, and that incredible Oregon hospitality.
Over-Water Luxury: The Edgewater Hotel
Finally, we head to the Emerald City for a stay that is truly iconic. The Edgewater Hotel in Seattle is the only over-water hotel in the city, sitting proudly on Pier 67. It’s a place steeped in rock-n-roll history—famous for the time the Beatles actually fished out of their window in 1964! But beyond the legends, it’s a stunningly beautiful mountain-outpost-meets-urban-luxury retreat.
The style here is “noble lodge”—think heavy timbers, antler chandeliers, and cozy leather chairs. It feels like a grand mountain resort, but you’re literally floating over the Puget Sound. The views are unparalleled; you can watch the ferries glide by and the Olympic Mountains shimmer in the distance. It’s a place that celebrates the spirit of the Pacific Northwest in every detail.
The “Ann” Experience:
One of my favorite things to do here is simply sit in the lobby by the massive stone fireplace and watch the mist roll over the water. But for a truly special experience, you have to dine at Six Seven Restaurant. Their Cedar Planked Salmon with truffle corn cream and forest mushrooms is, quite simply, amazing. It’s the kind of meal you’ll be talking about for years. I also love that the restaurant prioritizes organic, locally sourced ingredients—it really shows in the flavor.
If you’re a music lover, you might want to look into their custom suites, like the Beatles Suite or the Pearl Jam Suite, which was designed in partnership with Eddie Vedder. They are filled with memorabilia and offer a truly unique immersion into Seattle’s musical heritage.
Outside the hotel, you are perfectly positioned for exploration. You’re just a short, scenic walk from the Olympic Sculpture Park, where art meets the sea. Of course, a trip to Seattle isn’t complete without visiting Pike Place Market to see the flying fish and browse the local crafts. For a deep dive into marine life, the Seattle Aquarium is right on the waterfront, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass next to the Space Needle is a breathtaking display of color and light. It’s the perfect base for exploring the city while still feeling like you’ve escaped to a quiet, waterfront sanctuary.
Making Memories That Last
You know, at the end of the day, travel is about so much more than just ticking boxes on a map. It’s about those moments of unexpected joy—the way the light hits the London Bridge as you dock your boat, the feeling of the wind in your hair as you zip through the Oregon pines, or the taste of a perfectly prepared steak at a historic hotel in the Central Valley.
I truly believe that exposing ourselves to new places and cultures is the best gift we can give to our families and ourselves. These “off the beaten path” properties in the Curator Hotel & Resort Collection aren’t just hotels; they are gateways to new experiences and lasting memories.
So, where are you headed first? Whether you’re packing your hiking boots for the desert or your rain jacket for the coast, I know you’re going to have an incredible time.
Safe travels and happy exploring!
