Michelin has revealed its first MICHELIN Key selection dedicated to North American hotels. In all, 412 properties in the United States, Mexico and Canada were recognised.
The latest addition to the MICHELIN Guide distinctions, the MICHELIN Keys highlight the properties in the Guide’s hotel selection that offer the most exceptional stays.
Offering an ever more comprehensive service, the MICHELIN Guide’s hotel selection provides users with recommendations for a complete travel experience. Awarded by the MICHELIN Guide inspection team based on anonymous stays or visits — independently of existing labels, tourism stars and pre-established quotas — the MICHELIN Keys are a new international benchmark.
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Similar programs were unveiled earlier this year in Japan, alongside more than 120 properties in seven key cities in the United States, announced in April.
The vision for the MICHELIN Keys is to guide travellers to accommodations that stand out for their unique hospitality concept, distinctive character, warm welcome and extremely high level of service.
412 hotels awarded MICHELIN Keys in the U.S., Mexico and Canada
After presenting the inaugural MICHELIN Key selection for the seven first US destinations (Atlanta, California, Chicago, Colorado, Florida, NYC and Washington D.C.) in April 2024, the Inspectors have extended their research to all of the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Altogether, 288 hotels among more than 1,000 MICHELIN Guide-recommended properties in North America, have been newly awarded MICHELIN Keys: 168 are located in the US (on top of the 124 announced last April), 87 in Mexico and 33 in Canada. This selection brings together a wide range of concepts and accommodations, from hotels in historic buildings, to trendy urban boutiques, relaxing and intimate hideaways, and spectacular design and architecture jewels.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, said the selection “shines through its incredible diversity and is a clear invitation to explore North America.
“From retreats in the wildest US canyons, Canadian forests, or Mexican coasts, to architectural wonders; from flagship urban hotels to tiny properties nestled within former factories, campsites or isolated islands: every hotel awarded One, Two or Three MICHELIN Keys is a gem sculpted by talented professionals.”
“Using the MICHELIN Guide digital platforms, travellers can now filter their search and book hotels for stays that we hope will be unforgettable,” he added.
One, Two and Three MICHELIN Keys
Just like the famous Stars that indicate the best culinary experiences, the MICHELIN Keys reveal accommodations in the Guide’s hotel selection that offer the most outstanding stays. They are a new benchmark for travellers, qualifying each hotel experience in broader terms than simple amenities.
One MICHELIN Key: a very special stay
This is a true gem with its own character and personality. It may break the mold, offer something different or simply be one of the best of its type. Service always goes the extra mile and provides significantly more than similarly priced establishments.
Two MICHELIN Keys: an exceptional stay
Somewhere truly unique and exceptional in every way, where a memorable experience is always guaranteed. A hotel of character, personality and charm that’s operated with obvious pride and considerable care. Eye-catching design or architecture, and a real sense of the locale make this an exceptional place to stay.
Three MICHELIN Keys: an extraordinary stay
This is the ultimate in comfort and service, style and elegance. It is one of the world’s most remarkable and extraordinary hotels and a destination in itself for that trip of a lifetime. All the elements of truly great hospitality are here to ensure any stay will live long in the memory and hearts of travellers.
In the US, five properties receive the highest hotel accolade of the MICHELIN Guide – Three MICHELIN Keys. There were 3 in Mexico and 2 in Canada. They included Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Canyon Ranch Tuscon, Kona Village, A Rosewood Resort, Sage Lodge and Amangiri in the United States; One&Only Mandarina, Zinalani Retreat and Hotel Esencia in Mexico and Fojo Island Inn and Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge.
Sixty Six hotels were awarded Two MICHELIN Keys: 37 are located in the U.S., 21 in Mexico and 8 in Canada.
And there were 212 hotels and accommodations rewarded with One MICHELIN Key, 126 are located in the US, 63 in Mexico and 23 in Canada.
The next MICHELIN Keys will be announced in Thailand next week, Great Britain and Ireland; and Germany, Austria and Switzerland in early October 2024.
