Travelers planning trips to the American Southwest or Utah ski country now have fresh lodging choices that blend distinctive experiences with more accessible pricing. Under Canvas, part of the World of Hyatt portfolio, will open its first New Mexico location near Santa Fe next April, while Hilton has introduced a Canopy property at the base of Deer Valley in Park City. These additions reflect broader efforts by major chains to expand into glamping and lifestyle segments that appeal to a wider range of guests.
Glamping Tents Offer a New Way to Experience Santa Fe
The Santa Fe site marks several milestones for Under Canvas, including its debut in New Mexico and the introduction of saunas along with temperature-controlled hard-sided cabins planned for later phases. Guests will stay in upscale tents set against the high-desert landscape, providing an alternative to traditional hotel rooms in a region known for its art scene and historic sites. Cash rates start as low as $224 per night, though World of Hyatt award availability has not yet been confirmed for the property. The opening timeline positions the resort to capture spring and summer visitors seeking outdoor-oriented stays without sacrificing comfort.
Canopy by Hilton Delivers Slope-Side Access at More Approachable Rates
The new Canopy by Hilton Deer Valley sits steps from the Jordanelle Express Gondola, giving guests direct access to one of the country’s premier ski destinations. The 180-room property includes four bars and restaurants, a sauna, steam room, and fitness center, all designed for a lifestyle audience that values convenience and modern amenities. Off-season cash rates begin around $181 per night, with peak ski-season pricing rising above $600. Hilton Honors members can redeem from 58,000 points off-season or 85,000 during peak periods, offering a practical entry point for points users who might otherwise face higher costs at luxury mountain resorts.
Wyndham Rewards Rolls Out Revised Award Chart
Wyndham Rewards implemented its updated fixed award chart on September 15, introducing four tiers that range from 5,000 points for the lowest category up to 45,000 points for a select group of elevated properties. The lowest tier dropped from the previous 7,500-point minimum, potentially improving redemption value for members staying at standard properties. The top tier applies only to a limited number of premium hotels, according to earlier statements from the program. Members booking future stays can now evaluate options against the new structure to maximize point usage across the Wyndham portfolio.
Additional Openings and Rebrands Expand Options in Key Markets
In Southern California, the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point is undergoing a multi-million-dollar renovation and will rebrand as The Ocean Cliffs at Dana Point, a JW Marriott Resort. The nearly 40-year-old property will refresh its 371 rooms, add a new pool and ballroom, and introduce updated dining while remaining open in phases to minimize guest disruption. Separately, IHG opened a new Crowne Plaza flagship in New York City’s Times Square. The 685-room hotel, originally built for the 1964 World’s Fair, features the Fifty-First Street Social restaurant and optional Manhattan Level rooms with skyline views. Cash rates start near $194 per night, with IHG One Rewards redemptions available from 30,000 points. These developments give travelers concrete new choices for both leisure and urban trips. As chains continue to adjust portfolios and pricing structures, guests benefit from greater variety in locations and redemption opportunities that align with different budgets and travel styles.
