Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword — it’s becoming the backbone of conscious travel. And let’s be honest, choosing to stay in eco-friendly hotels while vacationing across the USA is one of the easiest (and most satisfying) ways to travel responsibly without compromising comfort. From recycled building materials to solar-heated pools and gardens that double as restaurants, the best sustainable hotels are redefining luxury in a way that feels good — for you and the planet.
But what actually makes a hotel sustainable?
To be considered truly eco-friendly, hotels must meet clear, verifiable criteria. From coast to coast, US hotels are proving that being green isn’t just a trend — it’s the future of travel. But not all “green” hotels are created equal. Some hang a “please reuse towels” sign and call it a day. Others go all in — think solar panels, recycled water systems, and reclaimed everything, right down to furniture with a past life. Many of these hotels proudly carry certifications from organizations like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), Green Key, or EarthCheck — so when you see “eco-certified hotel,” know it’s more than a marketing label.
And yes, eco-friendly hotels really do help the environment. They reduce emissions, cut down on single-use plastics, conserve natural resources, and often support the local economy through thoughtful sourcing. While some people wonder, “Are eco-friendly hotels more expensive?” — the truth is, many offer options at various price points.
So, whether you’re a seasoned eco-warrior or just dipping your toes into sustainable travel, here are five eco-friendly hotels in the USA that go above and beyond — and yes, they’ll be ready to book via Zee Business soon.
1 Hotel San Francisco – California
Sitting pretty on the Embarcadero, 1 Hotel San Francisco is a beacon of green innovation wrapped in coastal calm. Overlooking the Bay Bridge and basking in natural sunlight, this urban oasis blends luxury with environmental consciousness so effortlessly, it’ll have you rethinking what it means to stay in style. And the best part? It doesn’t feel like it’s trying too hard — it just is eco-chic.
Unique eco-friendly features:
- Built using reclaimed wood, local stone, and terracotta
- LEED-certified with energy-efficient systems throughout
- In-room water filtration taps eliminate bottled water waste
- Organic cotton bedding and biodegradable cleaning products
- Rooftop garden provides ingredients for the in-house restaurant
- Nature concierge helps guests plan low-impact experiences
The Proximity Hotel – Greensboro, North Carolina
Let’s talk trailblazers. The Proximity Hotel is one of the first in America to snag a LEED Platinum certification — and it didn’t get there with fluff. This hotel is all substance, featuring over 70 sustainable practices that help it walk the talk while still delivering a stylish Southern hospitality experience.
Unique eco-friendly features:
- 100+ solar panels for heating
- Regenerative elevators that consume 75% less energy
- Onsite bistro uses locally sourced and composted ingredients
- Furniture and artwork sourced within 18 miles
- High-efficiency HVAC, lighting, and plumbing systems
- Constructed with over 40% recycled content
The Nines – Portland, Oregon
Hip, elegant, and refreshingly green — The Nines is Portland’s answer to luxury with a conscience. Housed in a historic building that was renovated (not razed), this hotel has taken sustainability to sleek new heights. Plus, you’re right in the heart of a city that basically runs on organic coffee and reusable everything.
Unique eco-friendly features:
- LEED Silver certification through energy-smart systems
- Renovated structure to avoid demolition waste
- In-room motion sensors to minimize electricity use
- Sustainable seafood and farm-to-fork menu at the rooftop restaurant
- Green cleaning and sustainable amenities in all rooms
- Part of Marriott’s certified green initiative
Hotel Terra – Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Hotel Terra is where rugged wilderness meets responsible indulgence. Located near Grand Teton National Park, this hotel is perfect for guests who want to be surrounded by nature — and leave it just as they found it. From energy-efficient everything to spa treatments that love your skin and the planet, Hotel Terra delivers green luxury without the guilt.
Unique eco-friendly features:
- LEED Silver-certified with superior insulation and windows
- Geothermal energy system for heating and cooling
- In-room energy-saving key cards and occupancy sensors
- Locally sourced, reclaimed materials in design
- Onsite composting and recycling for staff and guests
- Spa uses organic and cruelty-free products
- 100% electricity offset through renewable energy credits
When Zee Business goes live, you’ll find this sustainable escape in our list of accommodations — because we believe getting closer to nature shouldn’t mean damaging it.
Bardessono Hotel & Spa – Napa Valley, California
Napa’s known for its grapes, but Bardessono is a whole other kind of indulgence. One of the few hotels to achieve LEED Platinum certification, this wine-country retreat nails every detail of sustainable design. And trust us, you’ll feel the difference — from the spa’s geothermal soaking tubs to the organic cuisine that comes straight from the garden.
Unique eco-friendly features:
- LEED Platinum-certified with geothermal and solar power
- Salvaged wood featured throughout interiors
- Onsite organic garden feeds the hotel restaurant
- Zero single-use plastics policy
- Smart suite energy systems
- Organic spa treatments with ethical sourcing
- EV chargers and complimentary bikes for guests
You’ll be able to book Bardessono — and other sustainable hotel stays like it — on Zee Business soon. So yes, you can go green while sipping red.
‘The Final Green Stretch’
At Zee Business, you’ll find hotels that care about the planet as much as you do. Thoughtfully designed with the environment in mind, these stays are easy to discover and book on our platform — no deep research required.
So go ahead and fantasize about your sustainable stay — because when we go live, we’ll make booking it a breeze.
Zee Business is Coming Soon. Real Soon.
*This post is not sponsored. Any content relating to the hotels mentioned is for illustrative or informational purposes only, and we have no commercial relationship with them.
(We do not own any images. Images are sourced from Freepik or Unsplash respectively.)
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