Does America Have All-Inclusive Hotels? What You Really Need to Know

Most folks think of Cancun or Jamaica when they hear 'all-inclusive hotel,' not the USA. But yep, America does have all-inclusive resorts—you just need to know where to look and what you’re really getting.

In the US, the concept of 'all-inclusive' is a bit different. You can find some classic beach resorts offering food, drinks, and even activities rolled into one price, but it's rarer here than down in Mexico. Outside big brands, lots of American spots do call themselves 'all-inclusive,' but you have to check the fine print.

If you want a vacation where you walk in, stash your wallet, and eat until you need stretchy pants, you’ve got options—just not everywhere. Places like Florida, Montana, and upstate New York have unique all-inclusive resorts, but you probably won’t find them on every coast.

So, are you actually saving money with these? Sometimes, yes. Sometimes not as much as you’d think. A big tip: always check what’s really included. In some US resorts, booze or fancy dinners might still cost extra. Read the list, not just the marketing.

• Understanding All-Inclusive Hotels in the US
• Where to Find All-Inclusive Resorts in America
• What’s Actually Included (and What’s Not)
• Who Should Book All-Inclusive in the US?
• Tips for Booking Smarter

Understanding All-Inclusive Hotels in the US

When people hear all-inclusive hotels, they often picture endless buffets, tropical beaches, and drinks flowing day and night. Turns out, the US does have all-inclusive hotels, but they look a little different compared to spots in the Caribbean or Mexico.

In America, all-inclusive usually means your room, meals, and some activities are covered. Don’t expect wild pool bars everywhere or non-stop fancy shows like at the mega-resorts in Cancun. Mostly, you see this setup at family resorts, mountain lodges, dude ranches, or a handful of beach resorts. For example, Club Med in Florida and properties like Mohonk Mountain House in New York are classic US all-inclusive hotels.

Here’s what “all-inclusive” can cover in the US:

• All daily meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and sometimes snacks
• Non-alcoholic drinks included, but alcohol may cost extra (except at some higher-end resorts)
• Basic activities like guided hikes, kids’ clubs, or fitness classes
• Certain evening entertainment (like movie nights or live music)

Here’s a useful stat for you: According to the American Hotel & Lodging Association, less than 10% of US resorts call themselves all-inclusive. So while you’ll find them, they’re the exception, not the rule.

Don’t assume every all-inclusive hotel in the US is the same. Always read what’s covered, since policies vary a lot. If it matters to you, ask specifically if tips, alcoholic drinks, or premium activities (like spa treatments or private tours) are covered in your rate. That way, you avoid surprise bills later.

Where to Find All-Inclusive Resorts in America

If you’re looking for all-inclusive hotels in America, you’ve got to know where to dig. They aren’t everywhere, and you’re not going to stumble upon them just driving down the highway. But trust me, the real gems are out there if you know the key places.

The Florida Keys are a hot spot for all-inclusives. Think places like Bungalows Key Largo—adults-only, all meals, drinks, and even activities like yoga and paddleboards, all in the deal. South Florida has a few others, but Bungalows is the standout.

Head up to New York State and you’ll find family-friendly all-inclusive resorts like Rocking Horse Ranch in the Hudson Valley. They throw in meals, activities, horseback riding, even skiing in winter. Not your average beach resort, but it’s a classic American family getaway.

Out west, Montana shines with dude ranches like The Ranch at Rock Creek. Here, the all-inclusive tag covers gourmet meals, horseback trail rides, guided hikes, even spa treatments. It’s not cheap—it’s bucket list material—but some folks say it’s worth every penny.

Not to be missed, Arizona brings the Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa (Tucson), a wellness all-inclusive focusing on mindfulness, spa treatments, and healthy meals. If you want more than just eating and lounging, this is the spot.

Don’t expect Vegas-style giant all-inclusives like you see in Cancun. In the US, the resorts are usually smaller, more focused, and often cater to specific types of trips—family, adults-only, or wellness escapes.

Here’s a taste of what you’ll find:

• Florida: Bungalows Key Largo, Club Med Sandpiper Bay (Port St. Lucie)
• New York: Rocking Horse Ranch, Mohonk Mountain House
• Montana: The Ranch at Rock Creek, Triple Creek Ranch
• Arizona: Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa, Canyon Ranch
• California: Adults-only wellness resorts pop up, but not as many classic all-inclusives

According to a 2024 travel survey, about 18% of American travelers looking at US travel in 2025 searched for an all-inclusive resort or package deal. People want less hassle and more value, and these resorts are starting to notice the demand, so new options pop up every year.

Just remember, availability changes fast—especially in peak seasons or school breaks. Book early, check what’s really included, and don’t assume every "all-inclusive" in America is the same as the ones in Mexico or the Caribbean.

What’s Actually Included (and What’s Not)

The first thing most folks want to know is what does all-inclusive really mean in America. Unlike those big all-inclusive hotels you find in Cancun, American resorts can be tricky. You might get more—or less—than you’d expect.

Here's what commonly comes with your stay at most US all-inclusive hotels or resorts:

• All meals and snacks—breakfast, lunch, dinner, and usually desserts any time you feel snacky.
• Non-alcoholic drinks are almost always included. Some spots throw in unlimited sodas, coffees, and juices.
• Certain activities and entertainment, like yoga, kayaking, live music, or kids’ clubs.
• Some resorts (think Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Florida) include group classes, watersports, and even a few spa credits.

But here’s the catch. Booze usually comes with restrictions. Some places offer unlimited house beer and wine, but you have to pay for cocktails, top-shelf liquor, or craft beers. That’s a big difference if you’re used to Caribbean-style free-flowing margaritas.

Room service, tips, certain activities (like guided tours or special excursions), and fancy dinners can also cost extra. It’s not one-size-fits-all. High-end US resorts like Miraval or Canyon Ranch, for example, nail the wellness game—they include tons of fitness classes and meals but charge extra for personal training or private events.

If you really want no-surprises pricing, always ask for the full list of what's included at your chosen all-inclusive hotel. Don't just look at the homepage—dig in. If you’re not careful, you might pay more out of pocket than you planned.

Who Should Book All-Inclusive in the US?

All-inclusive hotels in America aren’t always everyone’s first pick, but they can be perfect for the right traveler. The biggest fans? Families, couples, and people who’d rather not spend their vacation sorting out bills and tips for every meal or activity. If you want one price upfront and zero surprises, these all-inclusive hotels are meant for you.

Let’s get specific. Traveling with kids? All-inclusive family resorts like Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Florida are built for parents who want activities, childcare, and meals included. No need to constantly reach for your wallet or argue about where to eat next. These spots often run kids’ clubs, sports, water parks, and even babysitting as part of their package. Check the fine print—some are seriously generous with what’s included.

If you and your partner are on the hunt for a romantic break, certain American all-inclusive resorts focus on adults only. For example, Bungalows Key Largo in the Florida Keys is entirely adults-only, and its package covers dining, drinks, and water sports. No need to budget every cocktail or sunset cruise separately.

Active travelers or multigenerational groups might also love the simplicity. Fancy trying horseback riding or fly fishing without paying by the hour? Dude ranches, especially in states like Montana or Wyoming, often offer meals, lodging, horseback rides, and activities under one fee. Here’s what that can look like in practice:

If you’re a DIY vacation planner who prefers hunting for cool restaurants and booking every detail, these places might seem restrictive. But for anyone who wants to relax, stop worrying about budgeting every burger or kayak, or just hates surprise charges, all-inclusive resorts in America could make your next getaway way easier.

Tips for Booking Smarter

Locking down the right all-inclusive hotel in America is all about knowing the details. Lots of places say "all-inclusive," but you don’t want an expensive surprise at check-out. Here’s how to avoid rookie mistakes with some practical insider advice.

• Double-check what "all-inclusive" covers. Don’t just trust the headline. In places like Florida or Colorado, some all-inclusive hotels include meals and activities, but only certain drinks or premium meals might add to your bill. If cocktails matter to you, ask beforehand.
• Compare deals directly on the resort’s website. Some booking sites skip over special packages or perks that only show up on the resort’s own page. For example, Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Florida sometimes throws in kids’ clubs or fitness programs, but only if you book direct.
• Watch for resort fees and taxes. Unlike some Caribbean resorts, a lot of American resorts tack on these charges. Always add them to your budget.
• Pick the season wisely. Booking in shoulder season—spring or fall for most states—can mean room upgrades or better rates, especially at big resorts in New York or Arizona. You’ll skip the crowds, too.
• Check the activity schedule. Some US travel spots go heavy on winter or summer fun, but the action is lighter at off-peak times. Ask for a daily schedule in advance if you care about certain activities.

Here’s a quick table showing what’s often included (and not) at popular all-inclusive hotels in America:

One more tip: Sign up for the resort’s email alerts. They often send out flash deals (sometimes up to 30% off) to email subscribers before posting those offers anywhere else. A little inbox clutter can actually save you a few hundred bucks on your next all-inclusive hotel stay.