The main lobby at Quartz Mountain Resort showcases fine art and a large stone fireplace.

3. Quartz Mountain Resort, Lone Wolf, Oklahoma
You have to know where you're going to find this remote destination. But you'll be glad you did. Nestled in the Wichita Mountains, this 118-room lodge offers modern-day amenities in a magnificent setting. Rooms are comfortable with Southwestern decor, though nothing fancy. It's the breathtaking views and clean air that are truly special. Rates: $69-$99 Sunday-Thursday, year-round. Weekend rates start at $109 during the summer. toll-free 1-877-999-5567 or www.quartzmountainresort.com.

4. Hotel Preston, Nashville, Tennessee
Getting to Hotel Preston, with the obnoxious construction on Briley Parkway, can be as challenging as avoiding a pileup during a NASCAR race. But wait until you see the room you'll be sleeping in, then you'll understand why this hotel made the cut.

The rooms, complete with all-ivory bedding and houndstooth-covered lounge chairs, feel more rock 'n' roll than the country western you'd expect in Nashville. The location is ideal--just minutes away from both the airport and Opryland shopping. And a special touch is the hotel's "You Want It, You Got It" program, which offers pet fish, lava lamps, CDs, and other items to make your stay more comfortable. Rates: Visit their Web site for Try Us rates available to first-time guests. They range $79-$93, depending on availability. toll-free 1-877-361-5500 or www.hotelpreston.com.

5. The Iris Inn, Waynesboro, Virginia
It's difficult to locate a room anywhere in the mid-Atlantic area that comes in at $100. But we found a mountain retreat that offers comfort, convenience, and cost effectiveness.

This inn sits atop a ridge just a quarter mile from I-64, near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Inviting porches entice guests to linger, as do comfy beds and silky sheets in each of the 10 rooms.

An observation tower on the property offers a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Rates: $100 on weekdays November-April. Rates go up on the weekends and during the May-October high season. 1-888-585-9018 or www.irisinn.com.

6. Hotel Indigo, Atlanta, Georgia
With oversize white Adirondack chairs in the lobby and rhythmic tunes filling the air, Hotel Indigo resembles a piece of Miami Beach in the middle of Atlanta.

We love the crisp, fashionable hues of white, indigo, and green incorporated in the rooms and appreciate the knack for cleanliness. Be wary of the bathroom size where some adults may find themselves shoulder to shoulder between two walls (it is that small).

Still, the location of this place is hard to beat, and the restaurant/bar off the main lobby serves as a great hangout on weekend nights. Rates: $119-$139. The hotel offers special weekend rates for less than $100 during certain times of the year, based on availability. (404) 874-9200 or www.hotelindigo.com.

7. The Magnolia Hotel, Dallas, Texas
Formerly the headquarters of the Magnolia Petroleum Company, this building was known for its Art Deco architecture and the giant neon Pegasus that adorns it. Today, it's also known for its exquisite, neutral-toned, modern interior and sophisticated guest rooms.

The Magnolia sits within walking distance of the West End Historic District, Dealey Plaza, and The Sixth Floor Museum. Plus, visitors are a short drive from downtown's happening area of Deep Ellum. Rates: $99 on weekends throughout the year, based on availability. 1-888-915-1110 or www.themagnoliahotel.com.