NEW: Two Rhode Island Hotels Named US News Best Hotels 2013

NEW: Two Rhode Island Hotels Named US News Best Hotels 2013

Two Rhode Island hotels were honored today with a place on US News and World Report's Best Hotels in the USA 2013 list. Newport's Chanler at Cliff Walk rose 29 places from last year to take the #93 position, and Watch Hill's Ocean House joined the list for the first time at #161.

How US News ranks hotels

The new ranking reflects US News' analysis of recommendations of properties across, as they put it, both in-house expert and guest reviews compiled from "legions of guidebooks, magazines, and websites." In search of those hotels that "consistently come out on top," US News assesses these reviews and comes up with its winners.

"The properties on this list are winners not only for their luxurious amenities, fine service, and lavish décor, but also for the way they showcase America's diversity," wrote US News' Emily H. Bratcher. "These properties range from major hotel brands to independent boutiques, and they can be found anywhere from California to New York, from South Carolina to Wyoming."

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Rhode Island's winners

The Chanler won praise again for its "breathtaking scenery" of Newport's picture-perfect Cliff Walk, as well as for its luxurious amenities and dining options. No stranger to accolades, the inn was previously named to the Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2012, AAA/CAA Four Diamond Lodgings 2012, Travel and Leisure 500 World's Best Hotels 2011, and Frommer's "Exceptional" designation.

Ocean House was also featured for its restored historical details — "down to window placements and interior wall hues." But Ocean House's appropriately-named OH! Spa also drew attention for its relaxing spa treatments, which Tripadvisor commenters praised as "without question the BEST spa I have ever been" and "above reproach."

2013 Top 5 in the US

The top five hotels on U.S. News' list spanned the country, from California to New York.

The leading hotels for 2013:

1. Amangani, located in Jackson, Wyo.
2. Four Seasons Resort Lana'i, The Lodge at Koele – Lana'i, Hawaii
3. The Inn at Palmetto Bluff, An Auberge Resort – Bluffton, S.C.
4. The Setai Fifth Avenue – New York City, N.Y.
5. Calistoga Ranch, An Auberge Resort – Calistoga, Calif.

Check out all 164 winners here.