Great — here are eight distinctive boutique hotels across the U.S., each well suited for a short weekend escape (picked to cover coasts, mountains, small towns and city breaks). For each I note what makes it unique, the vibe / ideal weekend, and practical notes.

1. Populus Seattle — Pioneer Square, Seattle, WA

• Why it’s unique: Thoughtful reuse of a 1907 warehouse with modern, sustainable design and a strong local-ingredient restaurant. Great for city culture, food and a walkable historic neighborhood. (en.wikipedia.org)
• Vibe: Design-forward, urban, artful.
• Ideal for: Food-focused weekend + Seattle sightseeing (Pike Place, waterfront).
• Tip: Ask for a room with neighborhood views; restaurant reservations recommended.

2. Madison Beach Hotel — Madison / Long Island Sound, CT

• Why it’s unique: Waterfront boutique with New England coastal charm, farm-to-table dining and live-summer programming — a compact, luxurious beach escape. (ctinsider.com)
• Vibe: Relaxed coastal-luxe.
• Ideal for: Romantic weekend, seaside walks, local seafood.
• Tip: Book a water-view room and check seasonal events/restaurant hours.

3. The Albert Hotel — Fredericksburg, TX (Hill Country)

• Why it’s unique: New boutique property in the heart of Texas Hill Country with locally driven dining options and a forthcoming spa — good base for wineries, shopping and small‑town charm. (Opened/expanded in 2024–2025.) (mysanantonio.com)
• Vibe: Upscale, modern with regional touches.
• Ideal for: Wine-country weekends, spa relaxation and exploring a walkable Main Street.
• Tip: Weekend rates can be higher—look for midweek or advanced-booking offers.

4. Three Ducks (converted Seabreeze Motel) — Westhampton / The Hamptons, NY

• Why it’s unique: A recently transformed midcentury motel turned laid-back, design-forward boutique — Hamptons comfort without the flashy scene. Good gardens and quiet luxury. (nypost.com)
• Vibe: Casual-luxe, restorative.
• Ideal for: Quiet beach weekends outside the main peak crowds.
• Tip: Weekends can sell out fast in season; consider shoulder-season dates.

5. Hotel Distil, Autograph Collection — Louisville, KY (Whiskey Row)

• Why it’s unique: Boutique hotel celebrating Bourbon history, housed on Louisville’s Whiskey Row — a fun, thematic stay for spirits lovers. (Featured as a weekend-getaway pick.) (traveler.marriott.com)
• Vibe: Local-history-meets-modern comforts.
• Ideal for: Bourbon-tasting weekends and downtown walking tours.
• Tip: Join guided distillery tours and check any hotel tastings or events.

6. The Edwin Hotel — Chattanooga, TN

• Why it’s unique: Hotel with a strong-curatorial art program and original works showcased around the property — a compact creative hub near riverfront attractions. (Also listed among curated weekend stays.) (traveler.marriott.com)
• Vibe: Artsy, contemporary.
• Ideal for: Culture + outdoor combo (riverfront, Lookout Mountain).
• Tip: Take advantage of nearby galleries and riverwalk for short itineraries.

7. Grand Adirondack Hotel — Lake Placid, NY

• Why it’s unique: A cozy Adirondack-style boutique with fireplace lounges and lake/mountain access — great for outdoor-activity weekends year-round. (Recommended as a weekend base.) (traveler.marriott.com)
• Vibe: Rustic comfort, social gathering spots.
• Ideal for: Skiing, hiking, or lakeside relaxation.
• Tip: Peak season rates vary — book activities (boat, lift tickets) in advance.

8. Townsend Hotel — Birmingham, MI (Metro Detroit)

• Why it’s unique: A manor-house–style luxury boutique with strong service reputation and an on-site steak/restaurant — good for an elegant, short city escape. (en.wikipedia.org)
• Vibe: Classic, refined.
• Ideal for: Romantic or indulgent downtown weekend with dining and shopping.
• Tip: Valet and on-site dining make it easy for a low-stress weekend.

Quick booking & timing tips

• Weekend demand: boutique hotels often have limited rooms and higher weekend rates — book 2–6 weeks ahead for the best choices.
• Check hotel packages: many boutique properties offer weekend packages (dining credit, spa, late checkout) that add value.
• Off-peak = better deals: midweek or shoulder-season stays can cut prices and increase availability.
• If you want I can narrow this list by region (Northeast, West, South, Midwest), budget (under $250, $250–$500, $500+), or travel date and check current availability/prices for specific dates.