trips 2 hours away from me

Find a road trip near me

Search for places within hours of your home city and plan a quick getaway.

Find somewhere new and interesting to explore that's only a few hours drive from your hometown. Plan a day trip or a weekend getaway, and escape from your city to discover nearby places. Search in any direction based on travel time or driving distance to find local towns and things to do. Explore a radius of 1 hour from Honolulu HI .

Check out the latest coverage in the Los Angeles Times :

If you’re planning a road trip this summer, take Within Hours for a spin. The simple website allows you to plug in a destination and learn about nearby attractions.

Or from Clark.com :

Where do you start to search for somewhere new and interesting to explore that’s only a few hours drive from your hometown? WithinHours lets you search in any direction based on travel time or driving distance to find places to go and things to do.

Travel time from me

1 hour from me within 1-1/2 hours of me cities within 2 hours of me 2-1/2 hours from my location map a 3 hr radius from me 3-1/2 hour radius from here places within 4 hours of me within a 4-1/2 hour drive 5 hour drive from me 6 hours from me 7 hours away 8 hour radius places 9 hours away

Distance from me

9 miles from me cities 10 miles from me 13 miles away from me 20 miles away 24 miles from me places within 30 miles of me 38 miles away within 40 miles of me 44 miles from me cities located 50 miles from me cities 55 miles from me 60 miles from me cities 65 miles away from me

places 70 miles away 75 mile radius from me 80 miles away 85 miles distance 90 mile radius 95 miles distance from me 100 mile radius from me 150 miles from me 200 miles away 300 mile drive places 400 miles away 500 mile radius 600 miles from here

What is TravelTime?

2 Hours Driving Radius Map

Travel time map generator & isochrones, i know i can get from a to b by public transport within my selected time, but it's not showing up.

• Walking to the station platform
• Waiting for the next available departure
• Time spent boarding the train
• Giving enough time to take the A to B journey
• Depart on the station on the other side.

You can't drive that far / you can drive much further than that"

• Open another mapping app of your choice and enter an A to B route
• Select a departure time for tomorrow.

Still not convinced?

About this tool, what is a travel time map, how to create a drive time radius map or other modes.

• Select a start location
• Select a maximum travel time limit
• Select a mode of transport, for example driving
• Voila! There's your driving radius map

Use cases for consumers

• Create a commute time map so you can see where to live based on commute time.
• How far can i travel in a given time: compare transport coverage for different areas.
• Create a drive time radius map: explore how far you can travel on a road trip.

Use cases for businesses

• Travel time mapping up to 4 hours & cross reference other data sets in GIS such as population data
• Site selection analysis: analyse the best location to locate a business by adding thousands of analysis points
• Create a distance matrix or travel time matrix & calculate travel times from thousands of origins to thousands of destinations
• Network analysis / travelling salesman problem: use spatial analytics to solve routing problems
• Commute time map - plot thousands of employee commute times for an office relocation
• Create up to 3 time polygons visualising where's reachable within 2 hours or less. Our API can create large travel time areas, talk to sales.
• Calculate travel times from an origin to various points of interest - in this demo we use points from Foursquare Give A to B routing details

Full access

• Book a demo
• Trial TravelTime API
• Trial QGIS Plugin
• Trial ArcGIS Pro Add-In
• Trial Alteryx Macros

TravelTime Features

• See 'How far can I get' in X minutes
• Create a drive time map or any other transport mode
• Overlap many shapes & highlight overlap area
• Search points of interest within the area
• Get A to B routing details

15 Unique Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Cincinnati

You won’t have to travel far in order to find some unique weekend getaways near Cincinnati!

After writing about the new Cannaley Treehouse Village in Toledo and the Covered Wagon rentals in Kentucky, I started to wonder if there were more “unique” spots within driving distance of Cincinnati.

And, WOW, did I uncover some great places for weekend getaways near Cincinnati! From staying the night in a shipping container to vintage RV’s to tiny cabins on the river…. I looked through the options at Airbnb (and a few other lodging spots) and found some really fun places to try.

Weekend Getaways Near Cincinnati:

Buffalo springs distilling company.

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Stamping Ground, KY; 100 miles away

Highlights from the Owners* : On the Bourbon Trail. The Buffalo Springs Distilling Company got it’s start in 1868. It closed and it’s warehouses were emptied out by the 1970’s. This building is one of the last structures left on the site. This historic building was the main office and gatehouse for visitors to the distillery, so we can offer one bedroom due to the size of the structure. Bourbon History buffs will love the opportunity to stay overnight in an old distillery building. This lodging has a large main room, fully equipped kitchen, a bedroom with a Queen bed, bathroom, and laundry area. There’s a City Park almost adjacent to the rear of the property and a family restaurant, stores, bank, post office, gasoline, and Police Station within walking distance.

Details : Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1bed; 1 bath

You might also like: 10 Relaxing and Romantic Getaways in Ohio

The Loft at Metamora – great for a weekend getaway!

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Metamora, Indiana; 60 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : The Loft at Metamora is a cozy, private getaway above a cafe and gift shop in a historic tourist town. The Loft at Metamora provides a private entrance, comfortable sleeping quarters, in room coffee and tea, and continental breakfast. A private full bath is included, with complimentary hand crafted soaps made on site.

The suite is a cozy loft space on the second floor of a barn-type building. The Loft suite offers a kitchenette with small refrigerator and microwave oven, toaster, and coffee maker.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom with 1 bed; sleeper sofa for children; 1 bath

The Farmhouse at Hotel Tango Farms

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Indianapolis, IN; 120 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: The Farmhouse has been newly renovated and is located right off I65 just a short drive to downtown Indianapolis. The house is situated on a 5 acre farm operated by Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery.

The home was built in the 1850’s and has been meticulously remodeled to highlight the rustic charm while giving guests all the modern comforts of home.

Details: Sleeps 8 guests; 3 bedrooms; 1 king, 1 queen,1 set of bunks, 1 full futon; 2.5 baths

Gladiola, A Tiny House on Wheels

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Logan, Ohio; 150 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Our Tiny Houses have that fun feeling, kinda like a tree house or cabin in a setting that allows you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of the Hocking Hills. Inside the air-conditioned/heated tiny house, you can climb a ladder up to a loft bed for a different view, convert the sectional seating into a king sized sleeping area, make and eat dinner in the kitchen and dining area, and freshen up in the bathroom with walk-in shower, Separett composting toilet, and hot running water. So if you enjoy such adventurous and playful settings with close access to zip-lining, hiking, caving, canoeing/kayaking, or a number of other Hocking Hills attractions, our tiny house stays are a perfect fit for you!

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; open floor plan; 1 king (sectional converts into a bed) and 1 double bed (in the loft); 1 bath

The Artist’s A-Frame

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Madison, Indiana; 90 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Getaway and enjoy the comfort and convenience of this unique, newly remodeled A-Frame home nestled in a quiet, upscale neighborhood. minutes away from Clifty Falls State Park (10 min.) and Historic Downtown Madison (5 min.): recognized as “The prettiest small town in the Midwest” by Ladies Home Journal and “Best Preserved Town in the Midwest” by the Chicago Tribune.

Check out the reviews – at the time of this posting they have 55 “5 star” reviews (the highest you can get)!

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 1 bath

Shipping Container Chic – a truly unique weekend getaway!

Highlights from the Owners* : We are nestled on 13 acres of woods just 2 miles from the entrance of Old Man’s Cave right on 664 S in Logan Ohio. Inside we have a cozy bedroom with full view window, private bathroom /shower, full kitchen with cooktop, living room area with small dining table for 2, gas fireplace, YouTube TV, and WiFi. One of the coolest additions is our motorized glass garage door. Outside under a covered porch is a comfy outdoor swing bed, outdoor lights, a hot tub for two and a glass grill.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 double bed; 1 bath

Paws and Unwind: Pet Friendly with a Fenced Dog Area

Highlights from the Owners* : Paws & Unwind is dog and kid friendly. We are located just 1.7 miles from Old Man’s Cave… Paws & Unwind offers a furnished kitchen, towels, linens, propane grill, a Keurig and K-Cups, a drip coffee maker and filters, shampoo, conditioner, dish soap and basic paper goods. We have a cooler, backpack, 4 sets of trekking poles, and 4 pair of ice grippers for your shoes for use during your stay. For your dogs, we have a 12 ft x 20 ft fenced in area right off of the deck. We also have indoor and outdoor dog beds, and food and water bowls. There is a 4 ft x 2.5 ft dog crate. There is no size or breed restriction for your dogs. We just ask that they are well behaved and pick up after themselves! We are an unplugged destination. There is no Wi-Fi.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 1 bath

Ultimate Couples Getaway in a Barn

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Peebles, Ohio; 80 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Trade in the city for millions of stars in the night sky! Located on dead end road in the midst of scenic Brush Creek Forest! Front porch overlooks stocked spring-fed pond.

Details: Sleeps 5 guests; 2 bedrooms; 1 king bed and 3 singles plus an air mattress; 1 bath

Milk House Cottage

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Chesterhill, Ohio; 192 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Our Milk House Cottage and Gardens is nested in the historic village of Chesterhill, Ohio on 12 beautiful hilly scenic acres (in the heart of an “old world” Amish community). The Milk House Cottage has been totally redesigned into a beautifully modern space equipped with mini-split heating & AC, village water, a non-cooking kitchenette area in the interior porch sitting area.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 2 single beds; 1 bath

Carriage House in Downtown Indy

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Indianapolis, IN; 120 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Fully modern and brand new private space in our charming carriage house. It has all the amenities you would need to enjoy and explore the beautiful city of Indianapolis. If you are here for work or pleasure, it is perfectly located and easy access to all Indy has to offer so come and explore our great city.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 queen bed; 1 bath (compost toilet)

A Tiny House Escape on 86 Acres in KY

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Augusta, Kentucky; 45 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Our backyard is 86 acres, and we are saving two of them just for you! Our Tiny House escape offers everything to set the tone for your “tiny get-a-way”, “big take-a-way”: Hidden along the creek, restored Kentucky farm venue, shared time in restored barn, social distancing, fire pit, stars. . OR. . . three miles to the sweet town of Augusta, right on the Ohio River– just a jaunt down the road for winery, shops, restaurants! Select “all” for the perfect vibe—make it you!

Details: Sleeps 3 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 queen,1 single; 1 bath

Alpine Chalet – Hocking Hills

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Logan, Ohio; 150 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Alpine – Hocking Hills is tucked into the woods near three other Chalets, on Blosser Road, convenient to Route 33 and the city of Logan. The closest state park is Lake Logan, 1.5 miles, a 5-minute drive. Old Man’s Cave is, 10 miles, a 15-minute drive… Connect with your friends or family, gathered around the beautiful slab-wood table in the spacious eat-in kitchen, on the hearth of wood-burning fireplace, out at the fire pit or in the hot tub on the porch. Beautiful log and slab hard-wood furniture, throughout, with exposed-beam walls and ceiling; hardwood floors; stone hearth. Two queen beds and two full baths, plus washer and dryer, upstairs – in rooms with charming dormer windows and cheery skylights.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 2 baths

Creekside Cabin on a Horse Farm – Lexington, Ky

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Lexington, Ky; 85 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Gorgeous N. Elkhorn Creek views from every room in this 1200 ft cabin on a private, gated horse farm. Your only neighbors are friendly horses! Wi/fi, SatTV/Netflix or enjoy wildlife viewing on the screened porch. Big Green Egg for grilling on the spacious deck. Fire pit and zipline. Living room/bedroom dual wood burning fireplace for chilly nights. Fully stocked granite kitchen. Kayaks available.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 2 baths

Lots of Room at the Jackie O’s Barrel Ridge Farm in Athens, Ohio

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Athens, Ohio; 175 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life on the Jackie O’s Barrel Ridge Farm! The perfect getaway for families with children and/or friends who want to reunite near Athens. With lots of natural light, this new 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath space sleeps 12 and has plenty of room for your group, including a chef’s kitchen with large dining table, 2nd floor living room, and tons of outdoor space with a hot tub, gas grill, fire pit, 2 ponds, several greenhouses and plenty of space to explore! … Take a peaceful stroll around the 20+ acre property and check out what’s growing. The greenhouses are home to vegetables and herbs served at the Jackie O’s Public House Restaurant, located in Uptown Athens. Surrounding the farm are fruit and nut trees, which are used in many of our small batch Brewpub beers.

Details: Sleeps 12 guests; 3 bedrooms; 7 beds; 2.5 baths

A Remote Cabin Getaway in Rising Sun, IN

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Rising Sun, IN; 40 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Welcome to our family’s 40-acre wooded property, Grace Woods. This historic cabin was built in 1806 with ties to the American frontiersman, Buffalo Bill – the perfect balance of rustic & modern. Updated amenities provide comfortable accommodations and allow you to relax in the outdoors. Access to pond, hiking trails, campfire, tree swings and zip line, plus more. Many guests visit the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Check our Guidebook for other local recommendations.

Details: Sleeps 6 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 1 bath

* Please be sure to read the property’s complete details on the rental listing. We have not supplied the full list of details / descriptions here.

3 thoughts on “15 Unique Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Cincinnati”

Brigitte, This is a great article. I am always looking for interesting places to get away to from Cincinnati. We have lived in Alberta, Minnesota, Connected and North Carolina and explored all of those regions, but have lived in Cincinnati now for 14 years and every one of the places on this list could be a new adventure. Thank you very much! Mike Crossen

You should check out the Murphin Ridge Inn in West Union, OH. It is a hidden treasure! It is one of our favorite getaway spots within an hour of Cincinnati. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Thanks for this great list of ideas!

Comments are closed.

• Weekend Getaways
• Romantic Trips
• Last Minute

25 Best Weekend Getaways in Pennsylvania

Last Updated By VacationIdea Staff on March 7, 2024

The Lodge at Woodloch - 2 hours 30 minutes

More Pennsylvania Vacations: Cabins Getaways , From Pittsburgh , From Philadelphia , Poconos

The Inn at Leola Village - 1 hour 25 minutes

38 Deborah Drive Route 23, Leola, Pennsylvania 17540, Phone: 717-656-7002

Nemacolin Woodlands Resort - 4 hours 30 minutes

East Coast Vacations: Connecticut Getaways , Rhode Island Weekend

Cove Haven - 2 hours 30 minutes

More to Explore: Getaways from NYC , Maine Getaways , New Hampshire , From Boston , East Coast

Omni Bedford Springs - 3 hours

2138 Business 220, Bedford, Pennsylvania 15522, Phone: 814-623-8100 , See the Map

Renaissance Pittsburgh - 4 hours 45 minutes

107 6th Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, Phone: 412-562-1200

The Inn at Westwynd Farm - 1 hour 30 minutes

Find Things to Do in Hershey

Lancaster Arts Hotel

300 Harrisburg Avenue, Lancaster, PA 17603, Phone: 866-720-2787

The Rittenhouse

210 West Rittenhouse Square, Philadelphia , Pennsylvania 19103, Phone: 800-635-1042

Paradise Stream Resort - 2 hours 30 minutes

Discover fun Things to do in the Poconos

Ledges Hotel - 2 hours 30 minutes

119 Falls Avenue, Hawley, Pennsylvania 18428, Phone: 570-226-1337

Gateway Lodge - 4 hours 40 minutes

14870 Route 36, Cooksburg, Pennsylvania 16217, Phone: 814-744-8017

Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa - 5 hours 40 minutes

422 East State Street, Sharon, Pennsylvania 16146, Phone: 866-345-2845

Seven Springs Mountain Resort - 4 hours 10 minutes

Browse Gettysburg Vacation Ideas

Red Lion Hotel Harrisburg Hershey

4751 Lindle Road, Harrisburg, PA 17111, 717-939-7841

Beaver Creek Farm Cabins - 1 hour 20 minutes

Strasburg, Pennsylvania is home to one of the Best Train Museums

AmishView Inn & Suites - 1 hour 30 minutes

3125 Old Philadelphia Pike, Bird-in-Hand, Pennsylvania 17505, Phone: 866-735-1600

Bridgeton House - 1 hour 10 minutes

1525 River Road, Upper Black Eddy, Pennsylvania 18972, Phone: 610-982-5856

Annville Inn Bed & Breakfast - 1 hour 30 minutes

4515 Hill Church Road, Annville, Pennsylvania 17003, Phone: 888-868-4515

Foggy Mountain Lodge - 4 hours

More Day Trips from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Hotel Hershey - 1 hour 30 minutes

100 Hotel Road, Hershey , PA 17033, Phone: 844-330-1711

Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront

Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront, 2 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA 16507, 814-636-1005

Toftrees Golf Resort, State College

Toftrees Golf Resort, 1 Country Club Lane, State College , PA 16803, 814-234-8000

The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle

An eco-lodge like none other in the state, the Nature Inn at Bald Eagle is undoubtedly the best location for outdoor enthusiasts who wish to reconnect with nature. The Nature Inn has comfortable guestrooms to suit all visitors from solo travelers and couples to family groups who need a little more space. The inn is located right on the edge of the Foster Joseph Sayers Lake in the heart of the Bald Eagle State Park, where visitors will find endless activities to occupy their time. There are two hiking trails which leave from the inn and plenty of roads to cycle. If you prefer water sports you can enjoy boating, fishing, paddling, swimming and water skiing on the lake. The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, 201 Warbler Way, Howard, PA 16841, 814-625-2879

To embrace the great outdoors you can spend the day in the Presque Isle State Park, which offers hiking and cycling trails and a variety of water sports, including scuba diving, canoeing and scenic cruises in summer, and an extensive selection of snow sports in winter. You could also head to Ashbury Woods Nature Center for hiking, cycling, picnicking and fishing. Family attractions include the Erie Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the ExpERIEnce Children's Museum, the Waldemeer Park and Water World, where you can enjoy over 100 rides and slides, and Splash Lagoon, where you can swim in a huge wave pool.

Lancaster, PA

Hershey, pa, the poconos, pa, philadelphia, pa, pittsburgh, pa, gettysburg, pa, harrisburg, pa, jim thorpe, pa, milford, pa.

• 1. The Lodge at Woodloch - 2 hours 30 minutes
• 2. The Inn at Leola Village - 1 hour 25 minutes
• 3. Nemacolin Woodlands Resort - 4 hours 30 minutes
• 4. Cove Haven - 2 hours 30 minutes
• 5. Omni Bedford Springs - 3 hours
• 6. Renaissance Pittsburgh - 4 hours 45 minutes
• 7. The Inn at Westwynd Farm - 1 hour 30 minutes
• 8. Lancaster Arts Hotel
• 9. The Rittenhouse
• 10. Paradise Stream Resort - 2 hours 30 minutes
• 11. Ledges Hotel - 2 hours 30 minutes
• 12. Gateway Lodge - 4 hours 40 minutes
• 13. Buhl Mansion Guesthouse & Spa - 5 hours 40 minutes
• 14. Seven Springs Mountain Resort - 4 hours 10 minutes
• 15. Red Lion Hotel Harrisburg Hershey
• 16. Beaver Creek Farm Cabins - 1 hour 20 minutes
• 17. AmishView Inn & Suites - 1 hour 30 minutes
• 18. Bridgeton House - 1 hour 10 minutes
• 19. Annville Inn Bed & Breakfast - 1 hour 30 minutes
• 20. Foggy Mountain Lodge - 4 hours
• 21. The Hotel Hershey - 1 hour 30 minutes
• 22. Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront
• 23. Toftrees Golf Resort, State College
• 24. The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle
• 25. Erie, PA

More Features

18 Most Beautiful Resort Spa Baths and Pools

25 Best Weekend Getaways in Delaware

20 Best Things to Do in Orange Beach, Alabama

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

Weekend Getaways Near You

Find Getaways Just for You

13 Perfect Day Trips From Pittsburgh (within 2 hours of drive)

Day trips near pittsburgh, [short drive from pittsburgh], day trips currently.

There are a number of amazing trips within short distance from Pittsburgh that can be accomplished in one day! Here is a list of best Day Trips.

For all types of getaways near Pittsburgh CLICK HERE    

Day Trips From Pittsburgh

Park and beach getaways at raccoon creek state park in pa.

The park is 7,572 acres in size and features the beautiful 101-acre Raccoon Lake. Take a hike at one of the many park trails (44 miles of trails to choose from). Or explore the 101-acre Raccoon Lake by kayak, canoe, rowboat, or hydro bike. Or swim and catch some sun at the beach. Or enjoy a stroll through the Wildflower Reserve with more than 700 species of plants. The park also offers a wide variety of environmental education programs.

Amazing Day Trip to Hartwood Acres Park - 30 min from Pittsburgh

• Tours of the estate require advanced reservations.

Hartwood Acres Park makes for a great day trip from Pittsburgh. Located in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania. It is one of the largest and most spectacular country estates! A wide range of outdoor activities, concerts, seasonal events, and the magnificent Lawrence Mansion will make an indelible impression on you!

Winter Fun Day Trip to the Boyce Park Ski Area Near Pittsburgh

• The cost range for tickets is $17 – $40.

Are you looking for a fun winter day trip from Pittsburgh? The Boyce Park Ski Slopes & Snow Tubing Area in Allegheny County will make a perfect winter getaway for the whole family, new skiers, snow tubers, and snowboarders.

Beach and Park Getaway at Laurel Hill State Park in Laurel Highland PA

Laurel Hill State Park offers 4,062 acres of mountainous terrain and beautiful 63-acre Laurel Hill Lake. The lake has a small, 1,200-foot white sand beach , with a lovely pier where you can jump into the cool and refreshing lake water⁠. It is open daily from late May until the middle of September. The beach is clean and well maintained, a nice small place to swim or rent a kayak or canoe. The reviews for this beach seem to be all positive.

The park also has some of the best hiking trails in Pennsylvania. Observe the diversity of plants and wildlife, explore the two must-sees – The Jones Mill Run Dam, and Hemlock Trail Natural Area, go fishing and swimming in summer and cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the winter months. The park is open every day of the year, and it is pet friendly.

Beach and Park Getaway to Moraine State Park near Pittsburgh PA

• Park information can be obtained at the park office near the entrance to the South Shore.

Looking for a beach and park trip for the whole family? Moraine State Park is 16,725 acres of exceptional scenery. Located in Portersville PA, it contains a beautiful 3,225-acre Lake Arthur, rolling hills, lush forests, and a large number of year-round recreational opportunities, there is something for everyone in the park. Moraine State Park has two swimming sandy beaches 1,200-foot-long Pleasant Valley Beach and 550-foot-long Lakeview Beach. ⁠

Magical Day Trip to Laurel Caverns in Laurel Highlands PA

• The cost ranges between $3 for kids and $15 for adults.

If you are looking for a unique and magical family day getaway near Pittsburgh or Cleveland, consider taking a day trip to Laurel Caverns in Farmington. It is Pennsylvania’s largest cave, with over four miles of passages. You will get unforgettable emotions, enjoy extraordinary views, and take amazingly vivid photos. This epic adventure is great for families with kids and also for adventure lovers looking for exceptional caving (spelunking) experience. ⁠⁠

Scenic Getaway at Cooper Rock State Forest in West Virginia

• The entrance to the forest is free. The cost depend on the accommodation you pick.

Scenic Coopers Rock State Forest with a great view of lakes, rivers, and valleys will make a perfect weekend getaway. This State Forest is great for hiking, biking, camping, and seeing the breathtaking views of nature. It is also perfect for a day out with friends or couples, and families with kids.

Amazing Winter Fun and Magic Sleigh Rides at Ma & Pa's Cabin in Burton OH

• The cost is $110 weekdays and $150 weekends for two-night stay.

Are you looking for memorable winter fun, a fabulous sleigh ride, and a unique off-the-grid cabin rental in the woods? You will get this unique experience and much more, while staying at Ma & Pa's in the village of Burton, Ohio.

Nestled in the mature woods, away from the busy city life, with a gas fireplace, fire pit, wrap-around deck, home amenities, and private hiking trails, this winter getaway will make your childhood dream come true!

Fun Family Getaway at Tygart Lake State Park & Adventures Water Park in West Virginia

• Half-day in the water park is $12 per person. Full-day is $16 per person. Free for children aged three and under.

Are you looking for a great place to have a fun family getaway? Consider vising Tygart Lake State Park with its Tygart Adventures Water Park.

Enjoy the beautiful views, numerous water activities, and breathtaking hiking trails in the park. ⁠⁠Have the thrills of sliding, climbing, jumping, and racing to the top of inflatable slides and obstacles on water. An exciting way to stay cool in summer!

Gorgeous Lake Getaway at Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

Deep Creek Lake is a quiet and relaxing four-season getaway destination, with picturesque mountain and lake views. It is a paradise for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and lovers of beautiful scenery!   Deep Creek Lake is nestled in the gorgeous mountains of western Maryland. It is the largest lake in Maryland with 69 miles of shoreline. The region has a wide range of activities all year round. In the summer months, you can go hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. During the winter months, there are opportunities for skiing, snow tubing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling.

Stunning Beach Getaway at Presque Isle State Park on Lake Erie in Pennsylvania

• The entrance to the park is free.

Are you looking for the best beach getaway? Presque Isle State Park is a gorgeous “seashore-like” beach, with a beautiful coastline and lake views. It is a paradise for outdoor lovers, families, couples, groups of friends, solo travelers, and those who want an unforgettable summer getaway!

Picturesque Getaway at Swallow Falls State Park near Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

• The cost is $3 for instate resident, and $5 for out-of-state resident

Swallow Falls State Park in Western Maryland is a perfect destination for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts any time of the year. With beautiful scenery, picturesque hiking trails, old hemlock trees, and two grand cascading waterfalls, you will fall in love with this park from the first minutes of your visit!

Picturesque Beach and Park Getaway at Geneva On The Lake OH⁠

• The Bach access is free. For accommodation suggestions see below.

Geneva-on-the-Lake , a village in Ashtabula County, Ohio, with picturesque lake views makes for a great weekend getaway for active people, nature lovers, wine buffs, couples, families, and friends! ⁠⁠Sandy Breakwater Beach, with a large beach area, is located inside Geneva State Park. The park, with 698 acres of forest, also offers hiking/biking trails, boating, and camping⁠.

For a compete list of getaways near Pittsburgh  CLICK HERE   

Getaways From Pittsburgh Page  includes fun family getaways, treehouses, cabins, romantic getaway, lake getaways, beach getaways, outdoor lovers getaways, day trips from Pittsburgh and more.

If you would like to easily search all getaways by type, location and amenities, go to our search getaways page:

Copyright © 2024 Weekend Getaways Near You · Theme by 17th Avenue

33 Driveable Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh to Get Out of the City (+ A Map!)

Pittsburgh is a great city with so many things to do all year. But, sometimes, you want to get out and explore some other places. It’s okay. We understand!

Where should you venture when you want a getaway from Pittsburgh?

There are SO MANY options, all within just a few hours’ drive from the city.

What makes us experts? Well, we both grew up in western Pennsylvania, just outside of Pittsburgh. We’ve explored most of these locations more times than we can count over the years, so we feel great about sharing each of these recommendations with you.

What type of destination or weekend trip are you looking for? There is something in this list that could be tailored to just about any desire. Here are some great ideas for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh .

➡️Just Want The Highlights? Our Top Recommendations:

• Best for Exploring the Outdoors: Pine Creek Gorge ; Cuyahoga Valley National Park ; Dolly Sods ; Hocking Hills
• Small Town Getaways: Lancaster, PA ; Jamestown, NY
• Explore Another City: Buffalo, NY ; Baltimore, MD
• A Girls’ Weekend in Wine Country: Geneva, OH ; Finger Lakes, NY
• History Buff’s Getaway: Gettysburg ; Washington DC
• Best Relaxing Weekend Getaway: Bedford Springs

What Makes a Good Weekend Trip from Pittsburgh?

We think that a good weekend trip requires no more than 4-5 hours of driving . Typically, with those on the longer end of this range, we’d even recommend a long weekend of at least 3 days.

Anything shorter than 1.5 hours could be explored in a day trip , but this list includes a wide variety of locations and distances. Hopefully, it will at least inspire a starting point for your next weekend getaway.

One thing we really like about many of these places to visit near Pittsburgh is that they can be enjoyed any time of the year.

These destinations are all driveable, and for most of them, having a car to get around once you’re there is a good idea.

Compiling this list was seriously tough! It became overwhelming when we sat down to think of all the great places within only a few hours’ drive from the city. Basically, we could have had 50+ spots here with great reasons to visit each one.

Best Weekend Trips from Pittsburgh

Stay in the State of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is full of places to see and things to do. Check out some of these spots, some very well-known and some more off the beaten path.

1. The Laurel Highlands

Drive Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Distance: 70 miles

The Laurel Highlands is a scenic, mountainous region in Western Pennsylvania that’s perfect for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.  The drive time is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the area offers plenty of things to do.

The star of the show in the Laurel Highlands is definitely Ohiopyle State Park . Discover beautiful waterfalls , and hike great trails like Jonathan Run and the Ferncliff Loop.

In addition to Ohiopyle, other great state parks nearby include Laurel Hill and Laurel Ridge.

Ohiopyle is also a popular whitewater rafting destination close to Pittsburgh.

Book an adventurous Whitewater Rafting Trip in Ohiopyle!

The tallest point in the state of Pennsylvania is located nearby in the Laurel Highlands: Mount Davis. If you’re trying to visit the tallest point in this or every state, this is a must-visit.

During the winter months, we think Seven Springs is a great place to satisfy your winter sports adventures on the mountain. You can ski, snowboard, or tube your way down the mountain.

Drive Time: 2 hours Distance: 128 miles

Erie is a great place to visit for a getaway weekend.  It’s located in the very northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, and it’s only about 2 hours from Pittsburgh! Erie has plenty of things to do and see during every season.

The city has a rich history with ties to Lake Erie that dates back centuries. Enjoy the historic tall ships or millionaires’ row of mansions right downtown.

Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and boating are great ways to enjoy Presque Isle State Park and nearby Erie Bluffs State Park .

Stay for the sunset at Presque Isle and watch from one of the park’s beaches. We think it’s easily one of the best places to watch a sunset in the Great Lakes region .

If you’re looking for some indoor fun, enjoy the Erie Art Museum, shop at the Millcreek Mall, or catch a show at Kellar’s comedy club and magic bar. Some pretty big names have performed on the small stage at Kellar’s.

Have you Pittsburghers heard of Billy Gardell? We’ve seen him at Kellar’s.

After spending the day exploring, visit one of the many great local restaurants. There are so many options that it’s hard to go wrong. Some of our favorite spots include The Cork, BrewErie, and Pineapple Eddie’s, among others. These are just a few!

3. Pine Creek Gorge

Drive Time: 4 hours Distance: 228 miles

The Pine Creek Gorge is the jewel of the northern part of the state. It’s an amazingly scenic and diverse destination. It’s an under-the-radar weekend trip from Pittsburgh!

The star attraction in this region is sandwiched between Colton Point and Leonard Harrison State Parks. It’s the gorge with the river below, known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon .

Hiking, biking, boating, and backpacking are all popular things to do in the area. You’ll want to spend all day exploring and enjoying the many trails and views. The West Rim Trail in the PA Grand Canyon is one of our favorite weekend backpacking trails in Pennsylvania at about 30 miles long.

The area is also filled with small towns, great places to eat, spots for shopping, and outdoor activities like kayaking.

Visit nearby Hills Creek State Park for more hiking and water adventures in the park’s lake. In the winter, you’ll see plenty of ice fishing happening out on the lake.

4. Gettysburg

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 185 miles

Located only about 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Pittsburgh, Gettysburg has a lot to offer, and it’s worth the drive. You’ll find all sorts of things to do in Gettysburg, and it’s a perfect destination for history buffs.

Check out sites like the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and the History Center. Then go out and explore the battlefields for a window into the events that occurred during the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War.

We learned so much by playing the virtual tour videos from the NPS at each stop through the battlefields drive.

There are also plenty of places to go hiking nearby, including Pine Grove Furnace and Caledonia State Parks. Take a nighttime ghost tour if you’re into the paranormal.

Other things to do in Gettysburg include shopping and visiting wineries! So many quaint little shops with unique items are scattered throughout the streets of the town.

Gettysburg is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, although you can certainly spend more than just a weekend exploring!

5. State College

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 136 miles

State College is a great driveable spot near Pittsburgh with a more small-town feel. This university town still offers all sorts of fun for both visitors and locals.

Whether it’s exploring the historic sites or grabbing some grub at one of the many restaurants, there is something to do in State College every day of the week. We always make sure to stop at the Berkey Creamery for some delicious ice cream when we’re in town.

Outdoor activities are popular, too. Wander through the arboretum at Penn State or hike up Mount Nittany . Play a round of golf at one of the beautiful courses. Take a tour through Penn’s Cave . There are even a few spots nearby for afternoon wine tasting.

Visit during particular fall weekends, and you’ll see the town transform. Football games are a big deal in these parts, and people come from far and wide to cheer on their Nittany Lions. So much so, that on these weekends, State College turns into one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania. It’s definitely a sports experience you should have at some point in your life.

On top of that, this small town has a lot to offer when it comes to shopping and entertainment. For those who love culture and art, don’t miss out on visiting any museums or galleries.

6. Benezette & Elk County

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 129 miles

Benezette is a small town about 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh, and there are plenty of things to do for visitors. This is certainly a more laid-back escape than some of the others on this list.

One of the best attractions in Benezette is seeing elk! Elk roam free on the hillsides surrounding the town, and it’s a great opportunity to see these large animals in a natural setting on the east coast.

Plan this as a fall getaway when the leaves are changing and the elk are in the rut. You’ll be in for a real treat.

Hike the nearby state forest trails, and you might get even closer to them, but not too close! Always maintain 100 yards between you and the elk for yours and the animals’ safety.

You can also enjoy some fishing or take a scenic drive through the area if that’s what you prefer!

7. Lancaster

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Lancaster, PA is a historic and charming area located about three hours and fifty minutes from Pittsburgh. Lancaster offers plenty of things to do for visitors and locals alike, but life’s pace is much slower than that in the city.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking or fishing, or indoor fun at the museums, there is something for everyone in Lancaster!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste the local flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. You’ll never go hungry here with this delicious home cooking.

Take an Amish Immersion Tour to Learn More About the Pennsylvania Dutch Culture in Lancaster!

Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is a mixture of German and Dutch elements. These foods emphasize meat, potatoes, cornbreads/biscuits, cabbage dishes with pork or beef sausages; fresh loaves of bread; apple pies; pretzels; and scrapple.

8. The Poconos

Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes Distance: 279 miles

If you’re looking for a more adventurous weekend getaway, the Poconos are a great option! This area is located about four hours and thirty minutes from Pittsburgh.

It’s quite a large area, so you could easily spend a long weekend exploring the Poconos and still not do everything you want.

Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, watersports, and golfing during the summer. Check out the nearby Ricketts Glen State Park Waterfall Trail for a real treat! There are over 20 waterfalls along the trail.

You can also enjoy some time at the casino or take a trip to one of the area’s many water parks. Indoor fun includes visiting the various museums and theaters or simply relaxing at the spa. In the winter, it is a ski and snowboard destination.

A trip to the Poconos is truly an adventure, whether you prefer relaxing or being active. While it is a little further drive, it is well worth the time and effort.

Drive Time: 50 minutes Distance: 33 miles

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Butler County may be just what you need to explore. Although it’s one of the closest destinations on this list, and you might be wondering why it made the cut, there are plenty of hidden gems here.

About fifty minutes or so from Pittsburgh to the north, there are plenty of outdoor activities as well as indoor fun. Hiking is plentiful in nearby McConnells Mill and Moraine State Parks . Sections of the North Country Trail travel right through both parks.

Shopping and dining options give you some variety that is different from the city. A few craft breweries, wineries, and local restaurants serve up delicious treats.

Numerous festivals are held in Butler every year, too. The Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival attracts Jeep enthusiasts from all over the country to the area for a weekend of on and off-road fun. I love my ’97 TJ and make it a point to attend every year.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that doesn’t require a lot of time, driving, or effort to reach, heading just north to Butler County is an easy trip.

10. Philadelphia

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 304 miles

Philadelphia is such a historic city with plenty to do, whether you plan to spend a week or one day in Philadelphia . It’s also the place where American independence was first declared, so history has a big influence on the city’s culture.

Museums, dedicated to different varieties of art, history, or oddities are scattered throughout the city! The Mütter Museum is one of the strangest museums we’ve ever been to, but those fascinated by the human body may also find it interesting.

Stop by Independence Hall where the founding fathers debated and signed some of the most important documents in US history, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. After, take a short walk to the famous Liberty Bell.

Take a Walking Tour of the historic Old City with a guide to be sure that you don’t miss any of the most notable sites during your visit!

Those interested in crime will enjoy a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary. Wander the eerie passageways on a self-guided tour where notorious criminals like Al Capone were once locked away. We found the audio tour that comes with your entrance ticket really interesting!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste local flavors. The Philly Cheesesteak war is alive and well. While Geno’s and Pat’s are the most famous, they’re not the only places to grab these sandwich staples.

Before leaving the City of Brotherly Love, visit the Museum of Art and run up the stairs made famous in “Rocky.”

➡️ Pro Tip: If you’re able to plan a visit on Independence Day weekend like we have, you may be lucky enough to sit on the museum stairs and catch the movie being played under the stars.

11. Delaware Water Gap

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 299 miles

The Delaware Water Gap is an ideal destination if you are looking to explore the outdoors. The area features caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and many other outdoor attractions.

The Delaware River forms a natural border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey at this location, which also makes it a great spot for fishing or canoeing on the river.

The area is so beautiful that many are hoping that the national recreation area will soon be upgraded to national park status, becoming Pennsylvania’s first.

We had a fantastic time sipping on a drink at the Glass Wine Bar in the Ledges Hotel. Make sure you request a table with a view of the waterfall!

We had an early reservation for a drink and appetizers and then drove the 30 minutes back to Raymondskill Falls. The restaurant wasn’t as busy, and we had Raymondskill to ourselves.

12. Cherry Spring State Park

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 182 miles

Cherry Spring State Park is a perfect destination for visitors who want to enjoy some relaxing time outdoors. It’s a great space to get “off the grid.”

This park is a true destination for stargazers. It’s known as the darkest spot on the eastern seaboard. The park is situated far away from any big cities, light pollution, and traffic; all of which make it the perfect place for seeing the Milky Way, among other things.

Cherry Springs also offers educational programs throughout the summer to help visitors learn more about astronomy and the night sky.

You’ll need to book a campsite far in advance for any big events such as eclipses or meteor showers. There aren’t a ton of campsites, and they can book up quickly, and they’re definitely rustic.

Trails in the surrounding state forest are great for mountain biking and hiking. Although the only overnight options within the park are rustic tenting options, check out Airbnb or VRBO for private cabin and home rentals near the park.

13. Hershey

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 215 miles

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a small town near the heart of Amish country. For those who are thrill-seekers, there is plenty to do. The amusement park is a main attraction for tourists.

Next door, the Hershey Story Museum & Chocolate World offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Milton S. Hershey’s chocolate empire and how it has grown to include popular brands like Reese’s, Twizzlers, Almond Joy, Mr. Goodbar, and many more.

Five-pound Hershey chocolate bars exist and are sold here. I know. I got one!

You can also take a guided tour, which is more of an experience through the Chocolate World with animations and songs.

Enjoy some shopping or play a round of golf if the weather permits. There are several hotels and motels close to the Hershey area, including one right next to Hersheypark.

14. Bedford Springs

Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Distance: 108 miles

The Bedford Springs Resort is a historic property that was established in 1806. The resort is centered around healing mineral springs that were discovered in 1796. In those times, it was a destination for city dwellers who would vacation to get away from the pollution and hustle and bustle of city life.

It was completely renovated and restored, then opened back to the public in 2007. Let me tell you, this property is a hidden gem in south-central Pennsylvania. We were pleasantly surprised with what we discovered staying at the resort.

The 300-acre property features a spa, fed by a mineral spring, which pays homage to the original purpose of the property. Indulge in a “Bedford Bath” which is the signature treatment here, alternating hot and cold baths with steam from the springs, too.

This is a great weekend getaway where you can indulge in relaxation, but there are also onsite hiking trails, bike rentals, and golf. An outfitter on site can help book fishing trips in the area.

Getaways from Pittsburgh in the Neighboring States

Pittsburgh is within just a couple hours’ drive to multiple other states. There are plenty of options when considering weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, so don’t be afraid to get outside the city and the state.

Access to many spots in Ohio is just a short drive away. Although some rivalry exists between residents of the two states, that shouldn’t deter you from considering a visit!

15. Cleveland

Drive Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Distance: 133 miles

While some Pittsburghers may roll their eyes or shake their head any time Cleveland is mentioned, it’s an enjoyable spot to visit for a weekend. At just over 2 hours from Pittsburgh, it’s an easily accessible drive for just a short visit.

Cleveland’s downtown features an impressive skyline of high-rises, fun restaurants, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For music lovers, this place is a must-visit!

Cleveland also has the closest NBA professional basketball team in the Cavaliers, if you’re looking for a different sport to watch that isn’t offered in Pittsburgh.

There are so many great restaurants, bars, and breweries to visit, too, scattered all over town. Don’t just head down East 4th Street. Check out Tremont or Ohio City, The Flats, and other hotspots around town.

And, if you’re a beer lover, Cleveland has an impressive list of breweries to visit, many of which offer samples or tours. We love Noble Beast, Masthead, Terrestrial… We could go on!

16. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Drive Time: 1 hour 50 minutes Distance: 112 miles

Who knew a national park was so close and accessible? Even if the Delaware Water Gap becomes a national park, this one is closer! Cuyahoga Valley is a newer and lesser-known national park, but there are some beautiful spots to check out.

Brandywine Falls should be one of your first stops, and then hike along some of the fantastic trails, including a section of the Buckeye Trail. Take a ride on the train, especially if you’re visiting during the fall when the leaves are at their peak.

The Towpath Trail is a popular spot for bicyclists. The trail, which follows the Ohio & Erie Canal currently for 87 miles, is mostly flat and makes for an easy ride. It will be 101 miles long when it’s all finished!

The trail offers great views of the Cuyahoga River and the surrounding landscape, as well as some information about the historical significance of the canal way.

All of these sites certainly make Cuyahoga Valley National Park worth visiting on a weekend from Pittsburgh.

17. Nelson Ledges

Drive Time: 1 hour 35 minutes Distance: 92 miles

Nelson Ledges is a great place to explore the natural rock formations that make up the park. Hike, swim, bike, snorkel, camp, or find another activity that gets you excited to be outdoors. The possibilities here are nearly endless!

Check event schedules. The park is sometimes home to arts festivals and musical events on its 250 acres of land.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a walk along one of the nature trails or enjoy a picnic lunch.

There are also two fishing lakes in the park if you’d like to relax by the water. Just be sure to check with the park staff about fishing regulations before you start casting your line.

18. Put-in-Bay

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 202 miles

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with both a party atmosphere and spots to find some solitude, Put-in-Bay is the perfect spot. Just a few hours from Pittsburgh, this island offers plenty to do and see.

The town is situated on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. You’ll have to take a ferry to get to the island.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in town. Rent a golf cart for a fun way to get around town. You can also visit some of the historical sites or take a boat tour of the area.

If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of bike trails or golf courses to check out. And don’t forget about the beaches! Put-in-Bay has some of the best beaches around for swimming and enjoying Lake Erie.

19. Hocking Hills

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 193 miles

Hocking Hills is a favorite destination in the region for a number of reasons. It’s one of the most popular state parks in Ohio. Things to do in Hocking Hills include canyoneering, rafting, and hiking through the scenic landscape of rock formations, cliffs, and waterfalls.

The area can get quite busy during the summer, so consider visiting the Hocking Hills hiking trails during the winter for a different experience. Just make sure that you have the appropriate gear.

The trails can get really icy and dangerous! We definitely needed our Kahtoola microspikes , especially on the Old Man’s Cave and Rock House trails.

In addition to the great outdoors, the town has a number of places worth checking out. Take a ride around the area, visit some of the antique stores, or stop at the winery for an afternoon of tasting.

For overnight stays, there are soooo many cabins throughout the area with great amenities like game rooms, hot tubs, and beautiful fireplaces. Many pet-friendly cabins and hiking trails allow dogs in Hocking Hills , making this a great place to get away with your pups.

Pro Tip: Cell phone service can be extremely limited in many spots, even at some of the cabins that we’ve stayed at. Make sure you have paper maps and plan your trip ahead of time. You don’t want to risk missing things you’d like to do because you don’t have wifi or cell service.

Drive Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Distance: 138 miles

Geneva, Ohio is a small town with a big heart. The wine country of northeast Ohio has been growing and thriving. It’s home to beautiful scenery, delicious food & drink, outdoor adventure opportunities…the list goes on!

Geneva is home to more than just vineyards. It’s also the perfect place to visit if you want the best of both worlds: a weekend spent exploring or relaxing- all without having to travel too far from Pittsburgh.

Check out some of the beautiful covered bridges of Ashtabula County. There are 19 of them around the county.

Spend your time wandering “the Strip” for a carnival-like atmosphere during the summer months or get out and get active at the state park. Then, enjoy the wine! One of my personal favorites is Laurello’s.

Stay at the Lakehouse Inn in Geneva-on-the-Lake to be within walking distance of the Strip and enjoy epic lakefront views.

21. Sandusky

Drive Time: 3 hours Distance: 182 miles

Cedar Point Amusement Park is a world-famous amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio. It’s home to some of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world, as well as a variety of other rides and attractions.

You could absolutely spend an entire weekend in Sandusky visiting the beach on Lake Erie, checking out Cedar Point, and exploring the shopping and restaurants in town. There’s so much to see and do in the region.

This would be a great weekend getaway for families, especially with older children. Park entrance fees can be on the pricey side, but buying multi-day passes does give some discount.

Sharing a lot of the southern border of Pennsylvania, Maryland is home to a couple of weekend getaway destinations from Pittsburgh.

22. Deep Creek Lake

Drive Time: 2 hours 10 minutes Distance: 103 miles

Just over two hours away, this lake offers plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. You can go fishing, boating, swimming, or hiking on the trails around the lake during the summer.

Wisp Resort in the area is a great winter destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort is on the smaller side but offers slopes for all levels of skiers and a terrain park for the more adventurous.

There are also restaurants and shops in and around the town of McHenry if you need to take a break from all the outdoor activities, or stay in and just spend a weekend relaxing in one of the lakeside cottages.

23. Baltimore

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 248 miles

Baltimore is a city with a rich history, both as an industrial port and as the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner. But today, Baltimore’s many charms extend to its diverse restaurants and neighborhoods, world-class museums and art galleries, beautiful parks, and waterfront promenade. It’s also home to world-class universities like Johns Hopkins.

Some must-sees include The National Aquarium, which showcases millions of gallons of water-filled tanks with thousands of different species of aquatic life from around the world. You can explore the Atlantic coral reef or get up close with sharks in Shark Alley.

Baltimore is also home to the famous Inner Harbor, with its beautiful skyline views.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, stop by the Johns Hopkins University campus or check out the museums and art galleries around town. Stop by the Westminster Presbyterian Church, where you can see Edgar Allen Poe’s gravesite.

New York is such a large state that much of it is not accessible within a reasonable amount of time to be considered a weekend trip, even a long weekend trip from Pittsburgh. There are a few options, though, all of which have something fun to offer.

24. The Finger Lakes

Drive Time: 5 hours Distance: 284 miles

The Finger Lakes wine country in upstate New York is a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway. The region is home to stunning landscapes, delicious food and drink, and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities.

The Finger Lakes region is one of the furthest destinations included in this list, and you’ll want to take a long weekend vacation (or maybe more) to explore everything the region has to offer.

Spend the mornings exploring the many waterfalls scattered throughout the area or one of the stunning state parks near the lakes. The afternoons can be saved for wine tasting. Relax by one of the beautiful lakes in the evenings. What could make a better weekend getaway?

Make sure you check out Watkins Glen , Taughannock Falls , and Letchworth State Parks. These are just a few hiking options that have beautiful things to see around the Finger Lakes, but each one has great waterfalls and hiking trails.

25. Jamestown

Drive Time: 2 hours 40 minutes Distance: 171 miles

Did you know that Jamestown, NY is the birthplace of Lucille Ball? She was born there in 1911 and spent her childhood there. It is also her final resting place, along with some members of her other family members.

After a successful career in Hollywood, she retired to her hometown and opened the Lucy-Desi Museum. The museum celebrates her life and career and is home to many artifacts from her time on I Love Lucy.

Jamestown is also home to the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival each year. The festival features stand-up comedians, sketch comedy groups, and performances from both up-and-comers and well-known comedians.

For outdoor lovers, nearby Chautauqua Lake has plenty to do from boating and watersports to hiking trails and parks. Visit Southern Tier Brewing’s original location, and during the summer, you might be able to catch a musical act on the small outdoor stage while you grab a drink and bite to eat.

26. Niagara Falls

Drive Time: 3 hours 40 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Niagara Falls is quite a famous destination, being one of the most visited tourist attractions in North America. It’s no wonder why; Niagara Falls is truly spectacular. It’s the largest waterfall in North America by volume.

There are so many things to do at Niagara Falls, including taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat tour , visiting the Cave of the Winds, and even hiking along the Gorge Trail.

You can take out the planning and book a day-long tour of the highlights of Niagara Falls .

Discover Niagara Falls through a Guided Tour, Including Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds.

There are also many hotels located near the falls, making it easy to stay overnight while enjoying the beauty of the falls. Some even overlook the falls, but you’ll have to head over to the Canadian side for most of them.

While the area is very built-up and touristy, the magnitude of these falls should not be missed. In our experience, visits during the colder months were less crowded.

27. Ellicottville

Drive Time: 3 hours 15 minutes Distance: 203 miles

Ellicottville is a small town in Western New York, south of Buffalo. This quaint little town provides a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.

The town is home to 2 ski slopes, which offer even more than just winter fun.  During the summer, trails are open for exploration and mountain biking at Holiday Valley. Just south of town, there are more trails and outdoor areas to visit in the state forests.

After a day of exploring, you can spend the evening wandering through the shops in town or grab dinner and a drink at Ellicottville Brewing.

If you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape in a small town, this is the perfect spot.

28. Buffalo

Drive Time: 3 hours 20 minutes Distance: 219 miles

The city of Buffalo gives off very similar vibes to that of Pittsburgh with the locals and things to do.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as museums and art galleries, and a waterfront with activities in all seasons. 

Ever wanted to try your luck at curling after watching it on TV during the Olympics? There are lanes at the waterfront area, known as Canalside, where you can try it out and learn the sport. There are also skating rinks and plenty of winter fun. 

During the summer, the waterfront becomes a popular location for concerts and festivals, such as the annual Taste of Buffalo food festival. You could also combine a trip to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, as they’re only about 20 miles apart.

West Virginia

Wild and wonderful, West Virginia has plenty of outdoor adventure waiting in its mountains.

29. New River Gorge

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 217 miles

Just over 200 miles to the south, you can visit the US’s newest national park the New River Gorge .

The area in and around the gorge is popular with thrill-seekers, as there is fantastic whitewater rafting in both the New and Gauley Rivers. While we haven’t tackled the Gauley, the New River trip is fun in the spring.

Rock climbing and hiking are also other popular activities in the park, and you’ll find lots of camping options to stay the night in the area. Whether you’d like to spend the night in a primitive cabin or one with lots of amenities, there is a suitable choice. Plenty of tent camping sites are available, too.

Cell phone reception can be a problem in parts of the park, so plan ahead by downloading maps, just in case you find yourself off the grid. It is one of many great areas in West Virginia to get off the grid.

30. Charleston

Drive Time: 3 hours 35 minutes Distance: 228 miles

This historic city is the capital of West Virginia. With its beautiful architecture and charming downtown, Charleston is an absolute must-see when visiting West Virginia.

Although it is the capital of the state, Charleston has kept much of its small-town charm throughout, making this a relaxing weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.

Shop in the Capitol Market or attend an event at the Haddad Riverfront Park amphitheater. Grab a bite at one of the many downtown restaurants serving dishes like Italian or Mexican favorites. 

For a long weekend option, combine a visit to Charleston and the New River Gorge. The one-hour drive between the two destinations on Route 60 is scenic and beautiful. It’ll give you a good taste of those West Virginia country roads.

31. Dolly Sods Wilderness

Drive Time: 3 hours 25 minutes Distance: 152 miles

Another beautiful off-the-grid destination in West Virginia, Dolly Sods is a hiking paradise. As part of the larger Monongahela National Forest, there are over 17,000 acres of outdoor areas to explore.

This is a destination for those who are more adventurous outdoor lovers. 

There are trails for hikers of all levels, and if you want to see some wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and even black bears.

The best way to enjoy the outdoors is to camp out here. There are several campsites that offer electricity and water hookups, but no showers.

To really get to some of the best seclusion, plan to head to the backcountry, but only if you come prepared.

Much of Virginia requires more of a drive, so not all of the state is accessible for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh. A few spots could be great, though, especially for long weekend options.

32. Shenandoah

Drive Time: 3 hours 45 minutes Distance: 193 miles

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Pittsburgh, Shenandoah is a perfect place to go south.

One of the East Coast’s beautiful national parks, there are miles of hiking trails, biking, and scenic roadways through this portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can also take advantage of the natural beauty of the area by fishing and camping.

Shenandoah is definitely a four-season destination. Depending on the time of year, you will be treated to rushing waterfalls, fields of wildflowers, bright fall foliage, or snow-covered mountains.

All are beautiful in their own way, so plan your visit according to the type of scenery that you’d like to visit.

33. Washington D.C.

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 242 miles

Because it’s within a 5-hour drive of Pittsburgh, we can’t leave the nation’s capital off of our list of best weekend destinations from Pittsburgh.

You’ll certainly need more than a weekend to see everything that the capital city has to offer, though!

From the monuments and the National Mall to the shopping in Georgetown, there are endless things to do and places to explore. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly experience, check out the Smithsonian Museums or the National Zoo.

They’re all free to visit!

If you’d like someone else to do the route planning, check out these ELECTRIC CART GUIDED TOURS . You’ll be able to see more in less time in this small-group experience.

Plenty of sports teams call D.C. home, too, so there is a great chance that you could catch a game of some kind during your visit.

If you’ve never been to Washington D.C., you won’t know what you’re missing.

While there are so many options for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, hopefully, this list gives you some great ideas to start with. Better yet, take a spur-of-the-moment trip to one of the closer destinations we suggested. Sometimes those kinds of trips lead to some of the best memories!

Which one of these weekend getaways from Pittsburgh are you most excited about planning?

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

• Last Updated On
• September 5, 2023

30 Best Weekend Getaways From Columbus — Quick Trips!

Most people who have traveled to Ohio have heard about Columbus.

It is the biggest city in Ohio and the state capital, and it is situated halfway between the two major cities of Cincinnati and Cleveland.

To put it simply, the finest day excursions from Columbus are off to a great start.

So it’s easy to find places to go in your car far off from the hustle and bustle of the city.

And to help you plan the best weekend getaways from Columbus, we’ve produced this handy guide.

1. The Lakehouse Inn

5653 Lake Rd E Geneva, OH 44041 (440) 466-8668

The Lakehouse Inn is a family-owned and operated inn resort and winery established in 2000.

This inn will take you just under 2 hours to drive from Columbus and is filled with beautiful scenery.

High-end lodgings may be found at the Lakehouse Inn, situated on Lake Erie’s coast.

The inn has a range of lodging options, from rooms in the main guest house to secluded two-bedroom cottages on the lake’s edge.

The Lake House also has a winery that is a member of the “Lake Erie Wines & Vines” wine path, a full-service spa, and a farm-to-table restaurant.

Nearby attractions include a marina at Geneva State Park, a network of walking trails, and a variety of stores and restaurants.

2. A Georgian Manner Bed and Breakfast

29055 Evans Rd Logan, OH 43138 (800) 606-1840

A Georgian Manner Bed and Breakfast is a premier lodging located on Lake Logan in the Hocking Hills State Park.

This charming inn is about 46 minutes away and is perfect for short trips from Columbus to unwind.

Take in the tranquility of Hocking Hills State Park’s Lake Logan from the comfort of your room while enjoying the “Southern Hospitality” of your hosts.

Luxuriate in world-class amenities that will make your experience feel other-worldly.

These include exquisitely romantic lodgings adorned with sculptures, tapestries, and wonderful antiques from throughout the globe.

This is the kind of lodging that makes you feel like royalty.

3. Bear Creek Farm Bed and Breakfast

5504 State Rd Kingsville, OH 44048 (440) 813-1635

Bear Creek Farm is a family-owned and operated bed and breakfast place established in 1998.

The drive will take just a little over 3 hours and is great for long weekend trips from Columbus.

Bear Creek Farm B&B is located in a rural area, so guests can expect to experience peace and quiet as they explore the three miles of trails.

Or enjoy a nine-hole disc golf course.

This quiet and cozy staycation is perfect for fun Columbus area weekend getaways.

Bear Creek waterfall and the State Road Covered Bridge are both within walking distance.

Or you might explore the area’s vineyards, beaches, and museums with a short drive.

Ashtabula and Conneaut ports include quaint eateries and boutiques, and the area often hosts festivals.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Ashtabula-Geneva, an IHG Hotel

4. Trumbull and Porter Hotel

1331 Trumbull Detroit, MI 48216 (313) 496-1400

Trumbull and Porter is a modern hotel originally established in 1964 as the Holiday Inn.

This hotel is about 3 hours from Columbus and is conveniently located in downtown Detroit.

Because of its location, this hotel brings you closer to the vibrant nightlife and fantastic restaurants Detroit has to offer.

It’s a modern, classy, and comfortable experience right in the heart of Detroit.

There are also plenty of museums and historic attractions nearby, so add this to your list of Columbus weekend getaways.

5. HideAway Country Inn

1601 OH-4 Bucyrus, OH 44820 (419) 562-3013

HideAway Country Inn was first established as HideAway Farms in 1938 before being renovated into an inn in 1973.

You can reach this inn by diving just over an hour from Columbus.

Located in Detroit’s historic Corktown district, this boutique hotel has a creative and romantic vibe that will charm you.

It’s also convenient for a variety of interesting restaurants and nightlife options.

Explore the fresh air of the countryside, or take a quick drive downtown to explore fun attractions.

This is one of the best romantic getaways from Columbus and one you won’t want to miss.

Related: Hotels in Columbus

6. Garden Gate Getaway

6041 Township Rd 310 Millersburg, OH 44654 (330) 674-7608

Garden Gate Getaways, nestled between Berlin and Millersburg in Ohio’s picturesque Amish Country, is an award-winning bed and breakfast.

This simple yet charming staycation is a 1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus.

After a day of sightseeing in Holmes County, come back and unwind in the gardens and around the campfires.

Guests of this inn will find themselves conveniently located in a variety of Amish country attractions, like vineyards and breweries.

You could also go shopping, eat out, visit museums, look at antiques, and learn about the fascinating Amish culture.

So if you’re looking for places near Columbus for vacation, this place has plenty of surprises.

7. South Beach Resort Hotel, Marblehead, OH

8620 E Bayshore Rd Lakeside Marblehead, OH 43440 (419) 798-4900

South Beach Resort Hotel is a family-friendly lakeside resort established in 2002.

The drive from Columbus will take 2 hours and 21 minutes under light traffic, and it’s worth the trip.

This hotel is located near the best Lake Erie attractions, such as Kelleys Island, Cedar Point, and Put-in-Bay.

There’s also a marina, private beach, paddleboard rentals, playgrounds, heated pools, and so much more you could enjoy on-site.

Whether you’re here for a romantic weekend in a jacuzzi or a fun family vacation, this hotel is a great choice.

Also See: Weekend Getaways From Cincinnati Weekend Getaways Near Cleveland

8. Garver House Bed and Breakfast

410 N Wooster Ave Strasburg, OH 44680 (330) 878-4113

Garver House Bed and Breakfast is a family-owned bed and breakfast located in a historic 1902 colonial home.

The drive from Columbus will take you under 2 hours, so prepare your road tunes.

While still maintaining its historic character, this 4-room B&B offers convenient access to the many local Amish attractions.

Guests may relax in rocking chairs on the front porch or on the patio in the side yard, which is next to the original goldfish pond.

And each morning, you’ll wake up to a complimentary breakfast that can stand out.

If you’re looking for inexpensive weekend getaways near Columbus, this bed and breakfast is a great option.

9. Great Wolf Lodge

4600 Milan Rd Sandusky, OH 44870 (800) 641-9653

Great Wolf Lodge is part of a hotel chain established in 2001 and offers an indoor water park.

The fastest route from Columbus will take you just over 2 hours to make.

Suite guests at the Great Wolf Lodge enjoy so much more than a nice place to sleep.

You can bring the whole family year-round since it includes free admission to the large indoor water park.

The indoor water park has a bowling alley, a gaming arcade, and a series of exciting slides and pools suitable for visitors of all ages to enjoy.

Those with an appetite may choose from a number of eateries and food stands here.

So if you’re looking for getaways in Columbus the whole family can enjoy, this is one for the books.

Related: Fun Weekend Trips in Ohio

10. The Red Maple Inn

14707 South Cheshire (Route 700) Burton, OH 44021 (440) 834-8334

All the comforts of home are at the Red Maple Inn, a spacious rural inn with all the services of a cozy hotel.

It’s a short drive of 2 hours and 31 minutes from Columbus.

Beautiful views of the Ohio countryside may be seen from the inn’s balconies, so bring a camera.

Other amenities include a fitness center, a gaming room, and a library to get cozy in.

There are also plenty of activities nearby, including shopping and eating, fishing, golf, horseback riding, boating, and downhill skiing.

If you’re looking for places to go for a weekend trip near you, you won’t regret this inn.

Recommended Hotel: Inn of Chagrin

11. Angel Welcome Bed & Breakfast

2 E Front St Milan, OH 44846 (419) 499-0094

Angel Welcome, a stunning Federal-style mansion, was constructed in 1828 by Daniel Hamilton, a prominent Milan resident.

The trip from Columbus will take just a little under 2 hours to make and is worth it for the relaxing vibes.

This charming bed and breakfast has the perfect location for exploring the Milan Historical Complex and Museum and Thomas A. Edison’s birthplace.

You may take a relaxing stroll in one of the two nearby parks.

Or travel downtown to see the historic mansions and tree-lined streets packed with antique shops, specialized stores, and restaurants.

It’s the perfect spot for Columbus vacations that destress and rejuvenate.

12. Ohio University Inn and Conference Center

331 Richland Ave Athens, OH 45701 (866) 593-6661

The Ohio University Inn and Conference Center is a hotel located inside Ohio University, established in 1964.

This trip will only take 1 hour and 13 minutes to complete and is worth every second.

The Ohio University Inn’s prime location on the Ohio University campus makes it the perfect choice for visitors to Athens.

If you don’t feel like going out, the hotel offers two restaurants you may eat at.

Beautiful grounds surround the Inn, which has a swimming pool in the outside space you might enjoy.

They also have many different themed packages, such as the Romance Package and the Dog-Friendly Package.

Whether you’re there to attend classes, visit with friends, or just relax for the weekend, it’s the perfect spot for cheap vacations from Columbus.

13. Herb Garden Bed & Breakfast

3699 Route 46 South Jefferson, OH 44047 (440) 228-8458

Herb Garden is a small bed and breakfast located inside an 1848 farmhouse and is home to a lovely couple.

It’s a trip that will take 3 hours from Columbus, but if you value peace of mind, it’s worth it.

This small staycation only has two guest bedrooms, meaning it’s not crowded and a lot more peaceful.

Roam around the gardens and see the stunning sunset views over fields of plants.

You’ll be mesmerized by the wispy fields and the windmill at the pond.

It’s quaint, charming, and peaceful, and you’ll love every moment here.

14. The White Oak Inn

29683 Walhonding Rd Danville, OH 43014 (740) 599-6107

The White Oak Inn is a private inn located on 14 acres of conservation land and has been in service for over 25 years.

This inn is located a little over an out away from Columbus, right in the heart of the Amish community.

This inn is close to several attractions like Kenyon College, Mohican State Park, and more.

If you’re a thrill seeker, there’s also a zipline tour you can enjoy nearby.

Enjoy antiquing, browsing quilt shops, touring cheese factories, or seeing pottery stores and galleries.

15. Sebring Mansion Inn and Spa

385 W Ohio Ave Sebring, OH 44672 (330) 938-0423

Sebring Mansion Inn and Spa is a family-owned luxury bed and breakfast established in 1900.

This charming destination is 2 hours and 34 minutes away from Columbus.

Relax in a whirlpool and sip on a glass of wine at the full bar.

Or explore the gorgeous historic grounds of this magnificent mansion.

This elegant home is surrounded by stunning gardens and sceneries you won’t find anywhere else and is a luxurious stay you might love.

16. The Inn at Brandywine Falls

8230 Brandywine Rd Northfield, OH 44067 (330) 467-1812

The Inn at Brandywine Falls is a historic inn built in 1848 overlooking the Brandywine Waterfall.

The drive from Columbus will take you about 2 hours to make, so bring some snacks for the trip.

This inn is located near gorgeous parks and natural landmarks like the beautiful Brandywine Waterfall.

In addition to the surrounding parks, visitors enjoy using various indoor and common outdoor areas, including a lounge, library, dining room, and porches.

It’s a simple place to stay in, but it’s the surrounding places that really bring in the magic.

17. Captain Montague’s

229 Center St. Huron, OH 44839 (800) 276-4756

Captain Montague’s is a stunning century residence that spans a whole block in Huron, Ohio’s historic Old Plat district.

This charming hotel is 2 hours away from Columbus and is worth every second.

Lakefront Park, the Municipal Boat Basin, the Amphitheater, and the Huron Lighthouse and Pier are all within a mile’s distance.

So if you’re looking to explore those places, this is the most convenient place for you to stay for the weekend.

18. Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino and Racetrack

1 South Stone St Wheeling, WV 26003 (304) 232-5050

Wheeling Island Hotel is a hotel and casino in West Virginia established in 1937.

This fun weekend getaway is only about 2 hours away from Columbus.

The Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino, and Racetrack is a fantastic destination for a fun-filled weekend.

There are over 1100 of the latest and greatest slot machines on the gaming floor.

And if you grow tired of them, there are plenty of other options, including table games like Craps, Roulette, Poker, and Blackjack.

In addition, there are venues where you may wager on your canine of choice and see a live race.

19. Ann Arbor, Michigan

The University of Michigan and the city of Ann Arbor, Michigan, are both internationally recognized for their groundbreaking research.

However, there are more exciting things to do in this city.

Because of the 3-hour journey time from Columbus, you should get an early start on the day.

Plan your trip to Ann Arbor during June to see the city’s lively Summer Festival.

This festival has included performers with international reputations and even local gems.

Visit the University of Michigan Museum of Natural History and marvel at the dinosaur skeletons (a popular attraction among young visitors).

After that, check out the stunning flora in the Matthaei Botanical Gardens and Nichols Arboretum.

This is perfect for last minute weekend getaways from Columbus because you don’t have to think too hard about what to do next.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Ann Arbor

20. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh , the “Steel City” and the “City of Bridges,” is the second-largest city in Pennsylvania.

The traveling time from Columbus to this hidden treasure is around 3 hours and is perfect for a cool overnight trip.

One of the greatest day excursions you can do from Columbus, thanks to its abundance of exciting sites.

In both its displays and its architecture, the Carnegie Museum of Art presents a fascinating combination of historical and contemporary art.

Afterward, stop at the Pittsburgh Zoo, the biggest zoo in the area.

There’s the PPG Aquarium, the Bear Park, the Asian Forest, and the African Savanna.

Try finding all 446 of the city’s bridges if you’re in the mood for some spontaneous exploration.

Alternatively, you may go into the city and find a wealth of other options.

Don’t be afraid to indulge your inner foodie because this city is home to some of the nation’s best eateries and nightlife spots.

So if you’re still looking for a fun getaway, Columbus has plenty in store.

Recommended Hotel: Residence Inn Pittsburgh North Shore

Related: Day Trips Around Pittsburgh

21. Seneca Rocks, West Virginia

Seneca Rocks, WV 26884

The Seneca Rocks is an unincorporated community in Pendleton County, West Virginia.

The trip from Columbus will take about 4 hours and 45 minutes, and it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

To experience Seneca Rocks State Park’s rugged hikes and breathtaking vistas, pack your hiking boots.

Visit Seneca Rocks Climbing School if mountaineering is something you’re interested in.

Schedule a visit to Smoke Hole Caverns, then spend the day horseback riding with Yokum at Seneca Rocks Stables.

Visit Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint for a casual supper, or treat yourself to fine dining at The Forks Restaurant & Inn.

Recommended Hotel: Laurel River Club Bed & Breakfast

22. Louisville, Kentucky

Louisville is the largest city in Kentucky, known for being the home of the famous boxer Muhammad Ali and the Kentucky Derby.

This city is about 3 hours away from Columbus and has plenty of things to do.

If you’re in town for the Kentucky Derby in early May, Louisville is home to Churchill Downs, where the race takes place.

Visit the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory if you and your travel companion have a passion for baseball.

Take a romantic stroll in the beautiful Cherokee Park, or go for a bike ride along the trails of Beckley Creek Park.

Treat that special someone to a day of antique shopping at the Derby City Antique Mall, followed by a romantic meal at RIVUE Restaurant and Lounge.

Recommended Hotel: The Brown Hotel

23. Indianapolis, Indiana

The city of Indianapolis , Indiana’s largest state capital, was established in 1821.

There’s a lot to see and do, so the 2-hour and 55-minute journey from Columbus is well worth it.

Explore interactive exhibitions at The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis and learn a thing or two.

You may then unwind with a walk-in Newfields, a beautiful park filled with colorful flowers.

Finish it with a visit to the Indianapolis Zoo to check out the most adorable and fascinating animals.

Recommended Hotel: Conrad Indianapolis

24. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland is the largest city on Lake Erie and even ranks as the 54th largest city in the entire United States of America.

It’s a drive of about 2 hours from Columbus and is great for a family getaway.

If you’re looking for entertainment, the Cleveland Orchestra performs in Severance Hall.

And the Cleveland Museum of Art is also worth a visit if you’re interested in the arts.

The 150,000-square-foot Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a fantastic destination for music fans.

Then get everything you need from the West Side Market to prepare a romantic meal.

Visitors to the museum next door to A Christmas Story House will be thrilled to see authentic objects and costumes from the classic film.

Recommended Hotel: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection

25. Detroit, MI

Detroit is the largest city in Michigan and is known as the world’s automobile capital.

This trip will take only 3 hours and 17 minutes from Columbus.

Visit the neoclassical Detroit Institute of Arts to see historic and modern artwork.

Then take a tour of Campus Martius Park for a leisurely stroll.

Head to the Motown Museum to learn about the fascinating history of the famous label and hitmaker for music.

Or see the stunning aquamarine life at Belle Isle and its huge aquarium.

Recommended Hotel: The Detroit Club

26. Nashville, TN

Nashville is the largest city in Tennessee and is known for its rich history of cuisine and music.

It’s quite a long drive of just under 6 hours from Columbus, but it’s worth it if you’re hungry.

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum or the Grand Ole Opry for music lovers.

The Parthenon is a fascinating visit that will make you feel like you’re in Rome.

Or visit downtown to see the lively streets and restaurants.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville

27. Buffalo, NY

Buffalo is the second-largest city in New York and was the first city in the country to have electrically-lit streets.

The drive is just under 5 hours away from Columbus.

Head to the Buffalo AKG Art Museum to see contemporary art.

Then head to the Erie County Botanical Gardens for a relaxing walk with vibrant flowers.

The Buffalo Naval Park is filled with ships, tanks, and aircraft on display you might enjoy.

There are plenty of parks for outdoor fun and museums and theaters to learn more about this city’s history.

It’s a great city to explore, along with its renowned restaurants and cuisines.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo/Downtown

28. Washington, DC

Washington is the iconic capital city of the country, known for its historic landmarks.

It will take about 6 hours and a half to drive here from Columbus, but it’s worth the trip.

Visit iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall, and the Washington Monument.

Also, noteworthy places are the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Newseum.

Other attractions to visit include the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the International Spy Museum.

Don’t forget the Artechouse, an interactive museum dedicated to art and technology.

Recommended Hotel: Melrose Georgetown Hotel

29. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Empire, MI 49630 (231) 326-4700

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a national destination established in 1970 and is known for its huge dunes.

The drive will take a whopping 7 hours to make from Columbus, but it’s worth it for the experience.

Climb the Dune Climb, explore the beaches, or go hiking along the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail.

Beautiful scenery may be seen from the road on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, from the hiking and bike paths, or canoe expeditions.

You may camp, stay at a vacation home or motel outside the park, go shopping, dine, and sightsee at museums and vineyards.

Recommended Hotel: Empire Lakeshore Inn

30. Asheville

Asheville is a city in the Blue Ridge Mountains known for its vibrant arts scene and historic architecture.

This city is a long 10-hour drive from Columbus, but if you’ve got a long weekend ahead of you, it’s worth it.

The Pisgah National Forest, located an hour outside Asheville, is well worth the trip.

The Appalachian Mountains are home to a vast national forest that spans over half a million acres of breathtaking scenery, waterfalls, and hiking paths.

There are also places to go trekking, as well as designated camping and picnic spots.

Downtown has examples of a wide variety of architectural styles, including classical, gothic, Spanish, art deco, and more.

This city may be the farthest out of all these places, but it doesn’t make it any less than one of the best weekend getaways from Columbus.

Recommended Hotel: The Omni Grove Park Inn – Asheville

Map of The Best Weekend Getaways From Columbus, OH

30 Best Weekend Trips From Columbus 2024

• The Lakehouse Inn
• A Georgian Manner Bed and Breakfast
• Bear Creek Farm Bed and Breakfast
• Trumbull and Porter Hotel
• HideAway Country Inn
• Garden Gate Getaway
• South Beach Resort Hotel, Marblehead, OH
• Garver House Bed and Breakfast
• Great Wolf Lodge
• The Red Maple Inn
• Angel Welcome Bed & Breakfast
• Ohio University Inn and Conference Center
• Herb Garden Bed & Breakfast
• The White Oak Inn
• Sebring Mansion Inn and Spa
• The Inn at Brandywine Falls
• Captain Montague’s
• Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino and Racetrack
• Ann Arbor, Michigan
• Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Seneca Rocks, West Virginia
• Louisville, Kentucky
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Detroit, MI
• Nashville, TN
• Buffalo, NY
• Washington, DC
• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

13 Day Trips From Evansville, IN (Within 2 Hours)

• Post Author: Julie
• Post published: June 3, 2022
• Post Category: Adventures in Family Fun
• Post Comments: 4 Comments

Summer is here, so you already know my summer activity gears have been turning.  What should we spend our summer doing?  I have road trips on the brain, so I thought it would be cool to share my brainstorming with you.  Each of these day trips from Evansville are within a 2-hour drive because sometimes getting away for an entire weekend isn’t always possible (or desireable).   

I’ve been to half of these destinations before and they are each definitely worth  mentioning because I would go back in a heartbeat.  The rest are on my “I really hope we can find time to do this” list for the summer.  

Here we go, let me know what you think in the comments!! 

13 Day Trips From Evansville

(within 2 hours), 1. holiday world & splashin' safari.

1 hour from Evansville

Holiday World tops our summer bucket list each and every year. Holiday World has amazing rides, wonderful amenities (free sunscreen, free parking, free unlimited soft drinks, allows you to bring your own food/snacks, etc), and the park itself is super-duper clean.

Check out my tips for visiting Holiday World here . 

2. Audubon State Park

10 minutes from Evansville

Audubon State Park is one of our favorite local places to hike.  A quick jump over the bridge from Evansville and you are there.  They offer several different trails to choose from.  We usually bring our dog Penny along and hike the pet-friendly trail.  There is a public restroom located in the main parking area, which is super handy (not a fan of the forest squat).  They also have covered picnic areas available for rent.  Audubon State Park is a great place to spend an afternoon with the family. 

Plan your visit to Audubon State Park here . 

3. Ellis Park

9 minutes from Evansville

Grab the family and catch a horse race.  Probably not someplace you want to go every weekend, but definitely worth at least one visit a summer just for the experience. 

Also, one day each summer they have their Weiner Dog Races where local dachshunds race each other down the track.  All proceeds to go local animal shelters.  Super cute, super fun! 

Plan your visit to Ellis Park here . 

4. Marengo Caves

1 hour 30 minutes from Evansville

Marengo Caves is about a 90-minute drive from Evansville.  Once you arrive you wind your way through the park, driving past all sorts of campsite areas and cabins.  Once you reach the caves you have 2 options for walking tours.  One tour is 40 minutes, and the other is 90 minutes.  You can choose to do one or both during your visit.  They also have other fun stuff to do, such as a mega maze, pedal cars, and more.  Check out their website here to see all they have to offer!

Plan your visit to Marengo Caves here .

5. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial

I haven’t been to Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial Park since I was in elementary school on a field trip (and I think possibly during a Girl Scout outing?).  However, since its only an hour away from Evansville, it’s a good place to check out on a family daytrip outing! 

There is a Visitor Center with maps, guides, and information about the park, a living historical farm to see first-hand how daily life was in the 1820s, and a few trails to choose from.  After you can head over to the Lincoln Amphitheatre and see who is performing!

Plan your visit to Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial here .

6. Louisville Zoo

2 hours from Evansville

The Louisville Zoo is pushing the 2-hour drive time limit of this post, but it is definitely worth mentioning.  It’s a wonderful zoo with lots of beautiful exhibits.  There is even a water park for the kids smack dab in the middle of the zoo, so pack your swimsuit and towel too!

I definitely recommend loading up a wagon/stroller with a small cooler full of snacks & drinks because outside food and drink is allowed in this zoo. 

Plan your visit to the Louisville Zoo here . 

7. Louisville Mega Caverns

An easy drive just inside Louisville is the Louisville Mega Caverns.  Ziplining through a cave! Grant and I visited several years ago and it was a lot of fun!

 We are waiting until both of our kids are old enough to do everything they have to offer because you do have to be 7 years old at and least 55lbs to do the Mega Zips and/or the Walking Tour.  However, there isn’t an age restriction on the Mega Tram. 

Plan your visit to Louisville Mega Caverns here . 

8. Holiday Drive-In Theatre

35 minutes from Evansville

I don’t know if you can consider the Holiday Drive-In Theatre in Reo a “day-trip” since you go there in the evening, but I’m counting it anyway.  Pack your snacks, your blankets, your bug spray, lawn chairs, drinks, and hit the road!  It’s about a 45-minute drive to the Holiday Drive-In Theatre, which isn’t too bad.  I suggest arriving at least 30 minutes early, if not more, to get yourself settled into your parking spot.  I also highly recommend bringing an additional speaker to make hearing easier.  I have found that solely relying on the vehicle speakers makes it difficult to hear sometimes. 

You pay 1 entry fee but can stay for 2 movies if you want.   

Plan your visit to Holiday Drive-In here . 

9. New Harmony

30 minutes from Evansville

New Harmony is a small historic town with lots of things to do and see.  Rent a golf cart for the day and tour this cute little town.  See the Labyrinths, the Tree of 40 Fruits, the Roofless Church and Playtopia.

Plan your visit to New Harmony here . 

10. Wilstem Wildlife Park

1 hour 45 minutes from Evansville

Wilstem Wildlife Park has been on my list FOREVER!! I am hoping we will find time to check this place off of our bucket list over the summer. 

Plan your visit to Wilstem Wildlife Park here . 

11. Big Splash Adventure Park

Big Splash Adventure is an indoor waterpark in French Lick, IN.  They have day passes available, but they also have lodging for anyone who wishes to stay longer!

Check out a few tips for visiting Big Splash here . 

12. Shawnee National Forest

I’ve never been here, but Grant has.  A great place for spending a day in nature, hiking, walking in streams, etc.  However, DO NOT FORGET BUG SPRAY!  Last time Grant went he came home with  at least a million chigger/mosquito bites and was miserable from the itchies for the next 2 weeks! 

Plan your visit to Shawnee National Forest here . 

13. Indiana Caverns

1 hour 40 minutes from Evansville

Indiana Caverns has cave walking tours, escape rooms, a single rail zip coaster, and more.  There are age, weight, and height restrictions on the different activities, so be sure to check that out before you go.  I think my family will wait until my daughter (who is 5 now) is at least 7 so that all 4 of us can participate in the walking cave tour, the escape room, and possibly the zip rail (depending on weight). 

Plan your trip to Indiana Caverns here . 

WantTo Drive Farther?

Last summer we went on two different weekend getaways.  One to St. Louis, MO, and one to Horse Cave, KY. Both trips were so much fun and only about a 3-hour drive from Evansville.  

So, if you are feeling a little saucy and want to make a 3 hour trip, consider St. Louis, MO and Horse Cave, KY.  Read about our trips here: 

Our St. Louis Trip

Our Horse Cave Trip   

Also, before you hit the road, be sure to print out a Travel Bingo printable to give you and your kids something fun to do during the drive!

You Might Also Like

5 Pet Essentials: Pet Gear That Makes Your Life Easier

Easy Popsicle Recipes: The Perfect Summer Snack

This post has 4 comments.

Great trip ideas. But unfortunately Wilstem is not a good place to support. https://www.peta.org/media/news-releases/feds-fine-wilstem-wildlife-park-over-critical-welfare-violations-cruel-killing/

Oh my!! Thank you for sharing, Megan! I was not aware!

Pingback: itemprop="name"> Big Splash Adventure Park: Know Before You Go - Our Lively Adventures

Pingback: itemprop="name"> Spring Bucket List: 15 Reasons To Be Excited About Spring - Our Lively Adventures

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

New York Chevron

15 Easy Weekend Getaways From NYC

By Alex Erdekian

Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while. (As for visitors, there's no doubt appeal in doing as New Yorkers do and pairing your city break with a local-loved side trip.) 

Disappearing into the woods, soaking up salty sea air, or getting lost in wine country all have their charms.—and thankfully, all of the above is on offer within a few hours of Manhattan. From the Hamptons to the Adirondacks—and even a quick two-hour hop over to Bermuda—beaches, islands, and mountains are all easily accessible. Some of them may leave you wondering why New York's supporting destinations don't get more buzz in the first place. 

Below, the 15 best weekend getaways from NYC. Here's to checking them all of your bucket list. (For the best restaurants, hotels, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City travel guide .)

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The good-time island: Fire Island, New York

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, plus a 30-minute ferry ride

An all-time favorite summer escape, and one that is especially important to NYC’s queer community, is Fire Island. With its many towns and beaches, each boasting their own local flavor, the Long Island barrier island makes it easy to choose the spot to match your vibe. A few popular spots: Cherry Grove is a fun-loving party destination, Kismet is known for its nightlife, and Fire Island Pines is an affluent community with a dining and shopping scene and some of the island’s most expensive addresses. A worthwhile hotel option is the Madison , the boutique bed and breakfast where the cast of Fire Island stayed while shooting the recent film. (A few other spots it featured? The bar Cherry’s which offers harborside drag shows, vintage shop DENIZEN , and the Belvedere Fire Island , a palatial resort for gay men.

The city break: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

About a two-hour drive; about an hour and fifteen minutes via Amtrak

It may be obvious, but it’s too easily forgotten by New Yorkers: the easy urban getaway to nearby Philadelphia. The city is budding with things to do, whether you’re in search of great new restaurants, fantastic art exhibits, or just a change of pace. A few of our favorite to-dos in Philly include visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, followed by the perfect cheesesteak at John’s Roast Pork . Betsy Blumenthal, Features and Franchises Editor at Traveler —and resident Philly expert—recommends the city’s Four Seasons for its spectacular aerial views of landmarks like Independence Hall. (For even more destination tips, check out our comprehensive Philadelphia city guide. )

The posh beach hang: The Hamptons

About a two-hour drive

For many, the Hamptons conjure visions of Upper East Siders summering in their mansions, and flitting between high society parties. A weekend is the perfect stretch of time to slip into that whirlwind before letting the city ground you once again. Classic to-dos like visiting the Pollock-Krasner house in East Hampton (open May to October), designer shopping in the villages, and waterfront dining are always a good idea, as are summery outdoor activities. Pedal around the Atlantic Avenue Beach area with a bike rental from Amagansett Beach & Bicycle Company , savor a hefty lobster roll at the Dock House in Sag Harbor, or find inner peace in bird-filled Hither Hills State Park . A classic East Hampton stay, the Maidstone Hotel is the perfect place to post up (if you don't have an invite to one of the aforementioned mansions, that is).

The quintessential beach town: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Just over an hour’s drive

We’ve long held the opinion that the classic Jersey Shore town, Asbury Park, doesn’t get enough attention . Super accessible from the city, it’s just an hour and fifteen minutes by car on the Garden State Parkway, and only thirty minutes longer if you're traveler from Penn Station on a Bay Head-bound North Jersey Coast Line train. From Asbury Park’s bustling boardwalk to its famous mile-long beach, this town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and action. Experience the exciting local food scene by making stops at Reyla (for Mediterranean small plates) or beachside coffee shop Asbury Park Roastery. Consider staying at the Asbury Ocean Club, Surfside Resort and Residences for an elevated beachside experience or the eclectic ​​Asbury Hotel , which has the perfect rooftop.

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Meaghan Kenny

The eclectic island: Martha’s Vineyard

A five-hour ferry ride

Sometimes an island is the best escape. Martha’s Vineyard, with its lighthouses , arcades and carousels, sandy shores, and vast landscapes fits the bill. To get there, take a five-hour Seastreak Ferry from Midtown Manhattan, fly from JFK airport, or drive to Falmouth, Massachusetts (about 4.5 hours), and pay for overnight parking before grabbing the 30-minute ferry from there. The colorful, fairytale-ish town of Oak Bluffs is one of our favorite East Coast beach towns ; there, an ideal spot to post up is Summercamp Hotel (rooms from $235 per night). Deeper into the island, stop at Aquinnah, which feels martian-like with its clay-red lighthouse and cliffs.

The wine tour: The Finger Lakes

About a four-and-a-half-hour drive

New York’s biggest wine region offers plenty of options for sampling its famous riesling—but wine tasting is hardly all the area has to offer. The adventurous can pencil dive into a gorge or wade under a waterfall. Or stay above water: Canandaigua Sailboard offers paddleboard yoga , kayaking, and windsurfing. Between four and five hours from New York City , the Finger Lakes are just far enough to be a true escape. From Ithaca to quaint Skaneateles, there are a number of places that make for an ideal home base. Boutique hotel Argos Inn in Ithaca (rooms from $180 per night) is one of them. We love the romantic renovated mansion for the original art prints in each room, some by Salvador Dalí. 

The island escape: Bermuda

About a two-hour flight

Out of all of the destinations on this list, Bermuda offers the most drastic change in scenery. It’s pretty unbelievable that this Atlantic island—with its powdery, pale pink beaches, drifting mangroves, and gleaming white churches—is a quick getaway from NYC; the flight from JFK takes just two hours. Jet over and consider sunning on the iconic Horseshoe Bay Beach, snorkeling around a shipwreck, or sipping a rum swizzle with fellow travelers. We have ideas about where to stay, too. You have options: a cheerful yellow one-bedroom bungalow with a rooftop patio in Southampton, as well as a mini villa with waterfront views in Pembroke. Alternatively, surround yourself in high style at the Rosewood Bermuda , the premiere luxury stay on the island. (Need more Bermuda travel inspiration? Explore our destination guide .)

The nautical overnight: Mystic, Connecticut

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, three hours by train via Amtrak

Mystic’s maritime history gives this town a classic New England feel. Even today, it remains recognizable by the boats that sail the Mystic River and Long Island Sound. History buffs can immerse themselves in the lore with a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum , where there are reproductions of the Mayflower II. For another take on all things aquatic, visit the Mystic Aquarium , where African penguins waddle and Beluga whales swim. Enjoy the charm of eateries like Nana’s Bakery and Pizza , which mills its own flour, as well as the Oyster Club for fresh and locally-caught fish. Stay a night or two at the Whaler’s Inn , which has historical pull (it’s been around since 1818), yet was renovated in 2021. Its modern comforts include four-poster beds, gas fireplaces, water views, and an excellent farm-to-table restaurant, the Shipwright’s Daughter .

The classic coastal destination: Newport, Rhode Island

About a three-hour drive

There’s so much to see in Newport , one of New England’s most storied summer towns. Do up your weekend T-Swift-style with winding coastline drives, half-pound lobster rolls, and wanderings through Gilded Age summer “cottages” as they were called in the 1920s. During the day, take in sweeping Atlantic Ocean and mansion views on the famed Cliff Walk or boogie board at First Beach. Then, when it starts to get dark, visit the Roof Deck at the Vanderbilt hotel for a sunset drink. For a luxury stay, consider spending a couple nights at the aforementioned Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection . If you’re looking for a homey group spot, check out this two-bedroom cottage a few steps from the beach. However you do it, it'll be easy to see why Newport is one of the best weekend getaways from NYC. 

The quick camping trip: Cold Spring

About an hour-and-a-half train ride or drive

For an easy camping trip that doesn’t require a car, your spot is Fahnestock State Park . The campsite is near the Cold Spring stop on the Metro-North’s Hudson line—a short Uber ride covers the gap from the train station to the park itself. Squeeze everything you need for a night or two into a backpack , and relish in the empowerment and self-sufficiency of being 100 percent mobile. The hiking trails that run through the park connect to the vast Appalachian Trail, which touches 14 eastern seaboard states from Georgia to Maine . Besides hiking, the park has a beach on Canopus Lake, and fishing on four ponds and two additional lakes. On your way home, stop at Hudson Hil’s for a decadent brunch in the town of Cold Spring (we’re eyeing the Creole omelette) then walk to the train. If you’re looking to expand your journey throughout the region, there are many towns to love and explore in the Hudson River Valley area, including Beacon , Hudson , Kingston, and Rhinebeck.

The off-season gem: Lake Placid

About a five-hour drive

Better known as a winter destination , Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics, has a wealth of outdoor recreation in the summer months, too. At glassy, serene Mirror Lake, visitors can paddle out on canoes and kayaks . On the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers will pass the shimmering lake, cedar trees, and a population of otters. The Olympic sites include the magical Cloudsplitter Gondola ride, a rifle range, a glass elevator, a speed skating oval, a zip line park, the Herb Brooks Arena, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. If you're craving some time indoors, don't fret: The area’s old-fashioned movie theater at Tupper Lake Municipal Park, Adirondack State Theater, is currently screening Nope . Bed down at Lake Placid Lodge (rooms from $499 per night), a former summer camp .

The mountain escape: The Berkshires

About a three-and-a-half hour drive

The Berkshires , in western Massachusetts and northwest Connecticut, is one of those places that offers entirely different types of trips with every passing season. In the summer, the region is known for the anticipated Tanglewood season, in which the Boston Symphonic Orchestra and Boston Pops take residence and perform. In the fall, visitors can drive through some of the world’s most vibrant foliage along Route 2 and 7. Come winter, cold-weather sports are on offer—whether you’re looking to downhill ski or snowshoe. With the thaw of spring, hikes with waterfall views are easy to find at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Year-round, the food and drink scene won’t disappoint either: For an artisan cocktail after the sun goes down, visit Berkshire Mountain Distillers ; to enjoy a plate of shrimp gumbo, visit Nudel ; and to savor the notorious local cheeses, visit the North Adams’ Farmers Market. As far as hotels go, we have a few ideas. Restorative Canyon Ranch, Lenox is a four-time Readers’ Choice Awards winner, while Miraval Berkshires is one of New England’s largest and most renowned spas.

The great outdoors: Lake George

About a three-and-a-half-hour drive

Set in the Adirondacks in upstate New York, Lake George offers lots of open space and a slower pace of life. Take in the natural beauty with a scenic drive on NY-9 or NY-418, admire falcons at Bolton Landing, or shack up in a tent at the Lake George Island campsite . Other summer outdoor activities include fishing, cycling down the Warren County Bikeway, and golfing at the breathtaking Top of the World course. Boathouse Bed and Breakfast is the only B&B located directly on the lake , and has the most serene water views.

The peaceful spot: North Fork, Long Island

For a low key Long Island alternative to the Hamptons, the bucolic North Fork and adjacent Shelter Island are what you're after. Head first to Greenport, North Fork’s largest town which is known for its marinas, fishing boats, neighboring vineyards, and blooming fields of lavender in July. Sound View Greenport is our pick for where to stay in town. Their fisherman-and-farmer-forward restaurant the Halyard is open, too—don't sleep on the summer truffle and fresh cavatelli. Then, take the ferry from nearby North Haven to Shelter Island, where you'll find hiking trails, osprey, and salt marshes at the Mashomack Nature Preserve, and even more land to explore on the protected beaches or in the acres of forest. If you are strategic about avoid common travel times (Friday evening out of the city, Sunday evening to return), you can be in North Fork in just two hours, making it a surprisingly quick weekend getaway from NYC. 

The artist’s haven: Woodstock

The best place to start in Woodstock may be the slopes of Overlook Mountain. The limestone peak, full of red oaks, firs, and (keep your eyes peeled) timber rattlesnakes, features some interesting ruins, like the eerie remains of Overlook Mountain House, which brought tourists to the Catskills in the 19th century and sits just south of the Overlook fire tower. If privacy is what you’re looking for, you might consider this bright and airy studio loft decorated in a farmhouse style. While you’re there, scoop up quality produce at Sunflower Market , or if you don’t want to turn on an oven in the summer heat, snag a table outdoors at Phoenicia Diner . The cult favorite is a treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Highly recommended: the Phoenicia Smash sandwich (beef griddled into caramelized onion, mustard, mayo, New York cheddar, and pickles on a Brioche bun).

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• About The Digest

21 Drivable Vacations From NJ (2023 Updated Guide)

While our signature shores offer plenty of getaways in the form of beachfront Airbnbs , there are some incredibly scenic drivable vacations from NJ just across state lines. With the Garden State in your rearview, there are so many places to explore, many of which are only a short car ride away. Every hotspot on this list is within four hours (driving distance) from New Jersey, leaving no excuse to put off your long-awaited vacation any further. 

The Lodge at Woodloch – The Poconos, PA

Rejuvenation and stress relief are the pillars that keep this tranquil estate hosting thousands of people year after year. Fresh therapy pools that overlook the densely covered Poconos forests help alleviate anxiety. Tense shoulders are said to be no match for this quaint lodge deep in the mountains. 

The Lodge at Woodloch exterior l Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Woodloch

This quiet hotel offers lavish accommodations for pampering the body and mind. A self-proclaimed ‘sanctuary of senses,’ the spa boasts 27 different treatment rooms to help heal everything that’s ailing you. With many massage pools throughout the property, finding your inner peace should be no sweat. And for the more active vacationer, more than 35 exercise classes can be accessed after booking. Reclaim the idea of isolation and find serenity in the distant Poconos Mountains.

The River House at Odette’s – New Hope, PA

Eastern Pennsylvania, specifically the city of New Hope, has an incredibly storied past. The town has developed over the centuries from being a quaint stopover to a tourism hotspot. Luring in artists and artisans along the Delaware River for decades is The River House at Odette’s . Originally built in 1794 as New Hope’s first hotel, former screen star Odette Myrtil Logan bought the property in 1961 and reinvigorated it with a French makeover. 

Interweaving her taste for fine dining and culture led to stellar renovations all along the property, including the addition of a vintage piano bar and aptly named Odette’s Restaurant. Flairs of old Hollywood glamour come through the ornately decorated halls and vibrant wall art. A calm refuge in a newly bustling area, guests should expect this getaway to be a scenic excursion.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by River House At Odette’s (@riverhouseatodettes)

The Maker Hotel – Hudson, NY

The Maker Hotel is a refined destination created by the founders of global beauty Fresh, Alina Roytberg and Lev Glazman, as well as industry expert Damien Janowicz. Located at the epicenter of downtown Hudson, this bespoke stay is curated to appeal to locals and seasoned travelers alike – featuring work from craftsmen and artists spanning the centuries amongst a mix of history both recent and past.

Photo courtesy of The Maker Hotel

The Sagamore Resort – Bolton Landing, NY 

The Sagamore Resort on Lake George is an incredibly stunning vacation spot for those who love lake houses and luxury. The 70-acre private island considers itself the ideal resort for the whole family, offering a fairly large list of activities ranging from 18-hole golf to a fully fleshed-out rec area. Making the most of its breathtaking location, the hotel embraces its Adirondack environment and offers hiking trails for the outdoorsy traveler.

The lobby at The Sagamore l Photo courtesy of The Sagamore

Similarly, tours on Lake George allow for an enjoyable dinner cruise in the resort’s famous riverboat. A slew of other award-winning dining options, including authentic Italian cuisine at on-site restaurant La Bella Vista, is also available on the small island. A staple of tourism and hospitality in the area for well over a century, The Sagamore has solidified itself as a lakeside resort like no other.

Eastwind Hotel – Windham, NY

Just up the street from the humble small town of Windham, New York is the Catskills journey you’ve been waiting for. At Eastwind , they cater to any traveler looking for a nature-filled experience. Relax and reconnect with a bounty of trees as your backdrop. Upstate New York, and its seemingly endless miles of green mountains, always provides a picturesque view all year long. 

Lushna Suite Exterior l Photo courtesy of Eastwind, Taken by Lawrence Braun

Eastwind boasts A-frame cabin accommodations in addition to their Lushna Suites for a fanciful stay. One of which includes Writer’s Nook for the artistic adventurer. The Scandanavian stylings fit perfectly with the ski and sled atmosphere of the area, making the hotel a great getaway in the wintertime. 

Sagamore Pendry – Baltimore, MD

Boasting a flawless experience, beginning with complimentary welcome cocktails, guests should expect an extravagant journey throughout their stay at the Sagamore Pendry. A repurposed warehouse and historical pier that has undergone $60 million in upscale renovations, this hotel is an aesthetic marvel inside and out. The polished venue sits on the waterfront of the thriving Fell’s Point community, which makes enjoying sunset views on the water all but inevitable. 

Grandiose chandeliers, shining leather couches, and exclusive views of the harbor make this spacious property one of the best in Baltimore. The rich coziness of the dark wood walls creates a classic and sophisticated space to unwind. Additionally, the accent walls beautifully reflect the light coming off the water, lighting up rooms with a nautical ambiance. Because the property stabs right into the bustling harbor, guests can appreciate a panoramic view from the enormous pool situated on the pier’s edge. 

If the building looks familiar to you, the exterior was used as the set of the fictional Maryland School for the Arts for the films “Step Up” and “Step Up 2: The Streets.” 

Blantyre – Lenox, MA

This five-star resort deep in the Berkshire mountains offers rolling hills and a dense forest of trees for anyone looking to retreat into nature. Two massive castle-like buildings are distanced across the grounds and make up the magic of Blantyre. Each offers a unique experience for patrons: the opulent Manor House is covered in stained glass and classical portraits while the Carriage House offers a unique charm. Finally, the secluded Cottages serve as an ideal alternative to the castles and offer a more private vacation.  

Blantyre resort exterior l Photo courtesy of Blantyre

The spa on the property offers a slew of deep tissue massages and customizable treatments. Wellness is a major priority to Blantyre, which is why they offer daily therapeutic sessions of yoga and meditation. Michelin-star Chef Daniel Boulud helms the Café Boulud, serving tasty twists on French classics. It’s also said to be the perfect destination to experience the fall foliage around Massachusetts. 

Inn at Perry Cabin – St. Michaels, MD

Ranging in style from colonial to contemporary, the New England aesthetic is loud and proud all across this property. Largely nautical in theme and activities, sailing is offered for group excursions and romantic getaways — you can even get certified. The beautiful shore is a premier getaway spot for everyone and anyone looking for an aesthetically pleasing venue. Similarly, the plethora of wellness programs the facility offers rejuvenates and relaxes guests to the fullest extent. 

With features like tennis courts, golfing, and croquet, Inn’s country club vibe gives a sense of extravagance not often felt while vacationing. From their greenhouses to their golf course, Inn at Perry Cabins is a paradisal retreat from the monotony of daily living.   

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by @innatperrycabin

Lokal Hotel – Philadelphia, PA

In terms of driveable vacations from NJ, it doesn’t get any more “local” than Lokal Hotel . This company prides itself on being a unique lodging experience in that its renovated buildings aren’t your typical metropolitan towers. Smack dab in the middle of up-and-coming Philly neighborhoods like Fishtown and Old City, Lokal Hotel was born from historic buildings that were upgraded with modern apartment furnishings. Specifically, the beautifully renovated Fishtown location dubs itself an apartment hotel because it bears more resemblance to a homey loft than a visitor’s sojourn.

Lokal Fishtown location l Photo courtesy of Lokal Hotel

Lokal Hotel’s innovative policies mean that guests won’t encounter a front desk upon arrival. Nor will they find an on-site staff. Rather, through a series of smartphone apps and codes, the hotel is able to streamline communication with visitors. More futuristic and efficient than impersonal, the iPads each room comes with help connect guests with local eateries and hotspots. 

If you’re looking to stay within NJ borders, Lokal also hosts two South Jersey locations.

Wheatleigh Hotel – Lenox, MA

A design wonder, this stunning mega-mansion is modeled after the founder’s ancestral Italian home. The estate has a collection of antiques and museum-quality art, curating each room to be especially unique. Concrete columns transport visitors back to ancient times. Finally, their famous outdoor heated pool is sure to keep guests satisfied for hours on end.

Further, Wheatleigh Hotel’s signature restaurant holds just eight tables, offering an intimate setting for a farm-to-table meal. Other places to note on the property are the extensive wine cellar and newly added ax-throwing recreational area. Prioritizing privacy is a staple of the hotel, making it the perfect escape for any New Jerseyan.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Wheatleigh (@wheatleighhotel)

Twin Farms – Barnard, VT

Perhaps the furthest excursion on this list can be found in Vermont, but Twin Farms is very much worth the journey. Famed novelist Sinclair Lewis founded the estate as a hub for the great thinkers of the mid-20th century after his fiancé encouraged him to buy the land for its crisp air and sweeping lawns. Since then, the 300-acre property encompassing lovely cottages, ski hills, and lakes has grown in popularity and available amenities. The drive is long, but Twin Farms is perhaps one of the best weekend getaways from NJ.

Twin Farms Estate and Lake l Photo courtesy of Twin Farms

Camouflaged in a sea of green trees are more than 20 distinct cottages with methodically designed interiors. Rustic barns, sprawling orchards, and bending hiking trails lure city folk to the location year after year. Dine on farm-to-table cuisine that changes seasonally, like fresh squash grown in the fall. 

Mayflower Inn and Spa – Washington, CT

A boutique option for the weary journeyer, the Mayflower Inn and Spa offers that wholesome New England elegance with a unique style similar to that of director Wes Anderson . Eclectic wallpapers seemingly plucked from storybooks transform the interior of the inn into a distinct and colorful world. Handcrafted vases, hanging plants, and columns of classic books only add to the whimsical aesthetic the inn has to offer.

Join acclaimed potter Charlie Dumais, co-founder of Dumais Made, in personalized ceramic sessions that are dually educational and fun. Explore the charming gardens spread throughout the estate. Brimming with an ever-changing rotation of seasonal vegetables, the on-site chefs at the Mayflower Inn and Spa work their wonders to create new menus monthly with locally sourced ingredients. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mayflower Inn, Auberge Resorts (@mayflowerauberge)

Shou Sugi Ban House – Water Mill, NY

Shou Sugi Ban House in The Hamptons embodies holistic and wellness practices from Japan. Owned and operated by an all-female team, the house pledges to be a safe place for self-care and recovery. Taking a step away from the pressures of everyday life, helping guests to slow down and find their inner peace is the goal of Shou Sugi Ban House. Its intentional balance of private and public spaces, along with its minimalist design, adds to the culturally rich venue that ends up feeling like an appendage of Japan. 

Guest suite Shou Sugi Ban House l Photo courtesy of Shou Sugi Ban House

A wellness menu containing shamanic healing, crystal realignment sessions, vibroacoustic therapy, and 20 other immersive classes are available. Be as active and engaged as you’re comfortable with, but don’t take off without trying something new.    

Gurney’s Resort – Montauk, NY

Residents of New Jersey may already be well acquainted with the beach, but Montauk’s premier resort reinvigorates a person’s passion for the ocean. A beachfront property that bleeds into a beautiful seashore, the resort’s 2,000-foot private beach makes it unbeatable. 

Their exclusive Beach Club offers several memorable perks. Drift off to sleep amidst the sound of crashing ocean waves in a rentable bungalow. Guests can request flowing bubbly and a king-size daybed just a few feet from the water’s edge. Additionally, you can also step away from this slice of paradise and drive through Montauk’s giant mansions.  

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gurney’s Resorts (@gurneysresorts)

 Ocean House – Westerly, RI

Ocean House offers up New England’s one-of-a-kind luxury in spades. Another oceanfront property, access to the beach is just a few hundred feet from the massive estate. The 150,000-square-foot building (built right after the Civil War) was torn down in 2003. A sturdier replica of the original building, built with more modern furnishings, became the Ocean House we know today. 

Ocean House exterior at sunset l Photo courtesy of Ocean House

Rated one of the top 10 resorts in the American Northeast by Travel + Leisure, Ocean House continues to expand its prowess on the shores of Rhode Island. With a variety of fun activities, like a wine tasting seminar taught by a certified sommelier and daily yacht rentals, guests can create an unforgettable experience all across the resort. Ocean House just recently announced the opening of a charming outdoor restaurant on the property’s North Lawn. They’ve set up intimate greenhouses for small groups to dine in, surrounded by a garden of lemon and lime trees. Guests can expect to enjoy the delicious selection of tea and whiskey the property prides itself in serving. 

Castle Hill Inn – Newport, RI

Newport, Rhode Island is a seaside city that offers plenty of history, culture, and megamansions to gawk over. It was even the chosen place of recluse for past presidents, the “Summer White House,” for Eisenhower and Kennedy. 

Castle Hill Inn is among the many Gilded Age-born mansions the state prizes. Its storied past has hosted Hollywood royalty like Grace Kelly and famous novelist Thornton Wilder. The inn pays homage to both by naming a cove and guest suite after them, respectively. Towering over the beautiful Narragansett Bay, a popular marina that hosts many of the community’s coveted yacht races is Castle Hill Lighthouse. Standing at 34 feet tall, the tourable structure has been guiding visitors to Newport since 1890. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Castle Hill Inn (@castlehillinn)

Mohonk Mountain House – New Paltz, NY

What looks like a fairytale in the real world, Mohonk Mountain House is a castle that gives Sleeping Beauty’s a run for its money. Looming over the noiseless and spacious Hudson Valley, this hidden gem in New Paltz is a sight to behold. Glowing bonfires and starry skies light up nights, as the large forest is a refreshing respite from the populated suburbs. 

Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz l Photo courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Mohonk Mountain House is a place overflowing with enticing entertainment, including an illusionist that performs nightly and plenty of live music. Ice skating in the wintertime makes for snowy fun in their open-air pavilion. Lake Mohonk is prime for fishing, jet ski rentals, sailing, or lounging around. Finally, meals from the resort’s farm-to-table kitchen are bound to make you want another bite even after you’re full. 

Glenmere Mansion – Chester, NY

A luxurious estate with quaint courtyards and sunkissed walls, it isn’t hard to see why Glenmere Mansion made this list of drivable vacations from NJ. Voted the “Most Romantic Hideaway in the World in 2011” by Travel + Leisure, this is the ideal couple’s retreat. Duos can expect a vast selection of spa treatments, some of which utilize techniques from traditions around the world. It even has a private helipad for those who wish to travel by air, a testament to the typical crowd Glenmere Mansion caters to. 

The property’s architecture and exquisite styling, reminiscent of a Tuscan villa, are truly breathtaking. An idyllic getaway for a couple, guests have several winning suites to choose from. The lavish estate is complemented by its extensive gardens, originally designed by the nation’s first female landscape architect, Beatrix Farrand.  

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Glenmere Mansion ⚜️ (@glenmeremansion)

Whiteface Lodge – Lake Placid, NY

Lake Placid,  a two-time former host of the Winter Olympic Games, is a bustling area that thrives in the snow season. The most classic cabin trip on this list, Whiteface Lodge is centered on a mountainous area near the edge of Adirondack Park. A great spot for wintertime skiing, sledding, snowboarding, and so much more, the hills of Lake Placid are yours to traverse at Whiteface Lodge.     

Antler chandeliers and authentic wooden walls only add to the rustic charm offered by the selection of lodges. Timber cabins with fully renovated interiors and complete kitchens are available for entire families or just couples looking to take a trip. Children are sure to find plenty to do too, as the resort comes with a movie theater and bowling alley. 

Presidential Suite Great Room at Whiteface Lodge l Photo courtesy of Whiteface Lodge

Mirbeau Inn & Spa – Skaneateles, NY

This Skaneateles hideaway is the refreshing spa trip your sore muscles have been aching for. Interestingly, the French architecture and aesthetics were inspired by the work of artist Claude Monet. The estate’s warm tones, stunning ponds, and gardens were meant to mirror Monet’s own home in Giverny, just outside of Paris.  

Bliss and tranquility thrive at this chateau, with well-separated cottages available for those looking for a more secluded vacation. At the heart of this 14,000-square-foot facility is the famous Mirbeau Spa. 18 treatment rooms, heated floors, saunas galore, and even a nail care center will keep guests preoccupied all visit long. The Finger Lakes region of Skaneateles is home to down-to-earth towns that are liberating to explore. Antique shops, mom-and-pop stores, and so many other small-town charms can be found just a short walking distance away from the property. You can find horseback riding, hot air balloon rides, and archery classes at or around Mirbeau Inn. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles (@mirbeauinnspa)

Hotel Hive – Washington, DC 

Having gone to college in Washington D.C., I know firsthand how expensive tourism in the capital can be. While many Smithsonian museums are free, some of the best experiences across the capital tend to drain bank accounts. Fortunately, micro hotels like the Hotel Hive exist for affordability and convenience. While the rooms might be half the size of typical accommodations, they don’t feel like a tight squeeze. Bunk beds are even offered in some rooms, maximizing the use of space.

With a lively rooftop bar, Hotel Hive offers a great view overlooking the D.C. skyline. It’s connected to a trendy D.C. pizza shop called &pizza. Nothing is better after a night out than a freshly baked garlic pizza covered in tater tots.

Which of these drivable vacations from NJ are you headed to first? Let us know in the comments below. 

About the author/s.

Jonny Kandell

Just a 23 year old New Jersey native who loves to write! I just came back from living in Washington D.C. for college, so I'm really excited to see where post-grad life takes me.

• Jonny Kandell https://thedigestonline.com/author/jkandell/ 12 New Jersey Distilleries to Check Out in 2022
• Jonny Kandell https://thedigestonline.com/author/jkandell/ 11 Best Roller Coasters at Six Flags Great Adventure
• Jonny Kandell https://thedigestonline.com/author/jkandell/ Visiting an Adorable Alpaca Farm on the Jersey Shore
• Jonny Kandell https://thedigestonline.com/author/jkandell/ Hoboken Ranked Third-Most Densely Populated City in America

How Pets Can Improve Your Mental Health

Top challenge coins made in the usa, related articles, host your dream “notebook” wedding at the valley..., 26 best waterfalls in new jersey (2024 guide), 14 best new jersey staycations to book in..., independent spirit and artistic flair: noelle hotel in..., best day trips within every nj county, large-scale amenities meets boutique vibes at jw marriott..., saratoga arms: a timeless retreat in the heart..., hotel 50 bowery: where nyc grit meets boutique..., exploring the great wall of china: a comprehensive..., discover whiteface lodge: your adirondack mountain retreat.

You should title this 21 drivable vacations for the wealthy.

This does really need to be in a publication for the super rich, not the average New Jerseyan.

This is a list of luxury hotels not vacation destinations.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Yes, I would like to receive emails from The Digest Online. Sign me up!

• Entertainment
• Restaurant Guide
• Weekly Newsletter

10 scenic getaways across the US that are within a 1- to 4-hour drive from major cities — and the best hotel to book for each

When you buy through our links, Business Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

• As Americans return to travel, many will choose to avoid the airport in favor of road trips close to home. 
• For inspiration, we compiled 10 destinations with top hotels for each, located within a one-to-four-hour drive of major US cities.
• Locations feature gorgeous scenery, plenty of personal space, and new policies to promote cleanliness.
• All hotels are highly rated with desirable outdoor attractions and range from $159 to $435 per night to start.
• Read more:  Is travel safe? We interviewed experts on risks associated with flying, booking hotels or Airbnbs, renting cars, and more, plus ideas on safe vacations during COVID-19 .

Exotic vacations to far-flung destinations may be on your bucket list but chances are, in the wake of the novel coronavirus, a safari to Namibia will be placed on the back burner for some time.  

But that doesn't mean you can't experience a change of scenery. Many hassle-free getaways are close to home and located within easy drives of major US cities. And fear not, if you don't have a car, we spoke to several experts to determine if rental cars are safe to drive (hint: they largely are). And once you're ready to hit the road, here's how experts say you should pack and prepare for a safe, socially distant road trip .

Indeed, domestic options that embrace the great outdoors make it easier to avoid crowds and follow social distancing, and, travel agents are also seeing an uptick in regional travel planning .

If you're wondering if it's safe to travel and stay in hotels , it's important to understand the risks. Without a vaccine, there is no firm guarantee on safety, and it's crucial to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and wear a mask, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing. Additionally, check current state travel restrictions before booking, stay up to date on new policies from major hotels , and consider your own level of risk and whether you're traveling from or to a hotspot, so as not to increase the rate of infection.

For those interested in getting out of town, we rounded up places that trade densely populated city centers for wide-open spaces, fresh air, and gorgeous scenery to offer an abundance of personal space that will make it easy to maintain social distancing. These 10 driveable destinations are all located within a one-to-four-hour drive from cities across the country such as New York, LA, Denver, Houston, and more.

Similarly, we selected hotels that are highly-rated on trusted traveler sites such as Trip Advisor and Booking.com, are located in secluded areas and visually stunning areas, boast desirable outdoor amenities, and range in price from $159 to $435 per night (plus one luxe, all-inclusive option), to meet a wide variety and budgets and tastes. We also favored smaller properties that encourage social distancing, whenever possible. In more remote areas, expect to stay in smaller inns. What they lack in modern design, they make up for in character and quiet charm. Larger properties or resorts all feature stringent COVID policies to reduce risks associated with their larger size.

From a coastal escape in Big Sur to Aspen's rugged mountains to exploring Virginia's lush wine country, these places and hotels come with easy access to hiking and biking, swimming, and private balconies.

We also advise consulting cancellation policies, as the situation around the novel coronavirus changes, and to use your best judgment when it comes to effective social distancing to more effectively ensure safety.

These are the best getaways close to big cities, sorted by price from low to high.

Best getaway near chicago: lake geneva, wisconsin, one hour and forty minutes by car.

Book Geneva Inn starting at $159 per night

Chicago sits on the shores of Lake Michigan, but when residents seek a nostalgic lake resort, they cross the state border into neighboring Wisconsin, only 100 minutes away. It's home to spring-fed Lake Geneva, where replicas of old-fashioned paddle-wheel steamers cruise the lake. A 20-plus-mile public footpath encircles the crystal-clear water, offering pedestrian's impressive views of the lake and the grand mansions surrounding it. The yesteryear spirit is as all-American as a slice of cherry pie. 

The Geneva Inn enjoys a privileged lakefront position, is family-owned and operated, and offers personalized service, and friendly staff. Guest rooms and suites have classic cozy furnishings like four-poster beds, plus oversized soaking tubs and private balconies. 

The hotel offers on-site dining, though it's an easy one-mile stroll to downtown, where you'll find a wide variety of dining and shopping options.  

Trip Advisor Ranking: 4 out of 16 hotels in Lake Geneva

Booking.com Rating: 9.0 out of 10

Pros: This family-run hotel's relaxed charms are a throwback to a gentler era.  

Cons: The on-site restaurant's menu is nothing special.  

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations with new procedures that include:

• Increased cleaning and sanitation measures have been put in place, frequently and thoroughly throughout the day. Hand sanitizer, gloves, and masks are readily available for anyone that is in need.
• Guests are encouraged to continue social distancing and not congregate in common areas.
• The restaurant is only open for carry-out/delivery and room service. Limited outdoor dining will also be available.

Best Getaway near Denver: Aspen, three hours by car

Book Aspen Meadows starting at $174 per night

Denver offers urban gratification, but no visit to Colorado is complete without experiencing the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Aspen is a posh ski resort town located a three-hour drive from Denver. Lovers of the great outdoors won't want to miss hiking Maroon Bells, the most photographed mountains in North America. The town has enough galleries to keep art enthusiasts satisfied, plus the Aspen Art Museum presents thought-provoking international exhibits on a rotating basis.

Aspen Meadows, a Dolce Resort, is both a hotel and home to the Aspen Institute, a prestigious think-tank that attracts global leaders and the world's brightest minds. Hotel guests and institute participants randomly mix and mingle, imparting a cerebral vibe and an opportunity for casual intellectual exchange. There are 98 spacious rooms and suites with understated, yet stylish furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling windows exploit the vistas, immersing you in greenery. 

There are plenty of recreational offerings including a state-of-the-art health club and opportunities to play tennis, cycle, and hike while immersed in a haven of sagebrush and Aspen trees. You're likely to not see another soul as you hike the little-utilized trails that are accessed on-site. In winter, borrow complimentary snowshoes and tour the hotel's eye-catching collection of outdoor sculptures. The swimming pool and hot tub are heated for year-round use and have stellar views. 

Trip Advisor Ranking: 8 out of 34 hotels in Aspen

Booking.com Rating: 8.9 out of 10

Pros: Situated in a gorgeous mountain setting and home to a prestigious think-tank, a stay nurtures both the mind and body. 

Cons: The hotel is situated outside of downtown Aspen, so you'll need to drive or ride the shuttle into town. There is also a resort fee.

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations and announced new procedures that include:

• No more than 50% capacity for both guest rooms and restaurants.
• All rooms are guaranteed to be empty for a minimum of 24 hours prior to each new guest's arrival.
• Room assignments will be staggered in order to ensure common entryways are not shared.
• Some amenities have been removed from the rooms and are available upon request. These include bath amenities, hairdryers, kitchenware, iron/ironing boards, robes, and stationary. Newspapers will not be available until further notice but local news is available online.
• Daily housekeeping service will not be available during guest stays.
• Restaurants will offer to-go service only for breakfast and lunch.
• Airport and town shuttle services will be available upon request and require advance notice.
• Tennis is available but advanced reservations are required for Tennis Pro services.
• Wearing a face mask in all public areas
• Sneezing and coughing into one's elbow
• Refraining from shaking hands or engaging in any unnecessary physical contact with other guests or team members; and
• Washing hands often with soap and warm water and using hand sanitizer when soap and water are unavailable.
• Maintaining at least six feet of social distancing from other guests while on property, including restaurants and all other public areas.
• Refraining from congregating in any public areas of the hotel. Guests will be asked to disperse if necessary.
• Limiting occupancy in the two property elevators to two individuals or one known group at a time.

Best getaway near Boston: Boothbay Harbor, Maine, three hours by car

Book Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa starting at $189 per night

When Bostonians need a break, they flock to the Maine coastline. The state's Mid Coast region is defined by stunning seascapes, picturesque lighthouses, and quiet coves. Coastal Boothbay Harbor is an easy three-hour drive from Boston with a slower way of life that moves at a pace set by wind, weather, and tides, just as it has for centuries. 

Spruce Point Inn Resort & Spa is right on the water, the type of place where guests gather around the fire for a nightly snack of s'mores after a round of croquet or a dip one of the two swimming pools. Walks in the pine-scented woods, kayaking, and shuffleboard are favored activities, and there's plenty of space to spend solitary time in nature .  

The resort is set on 56-acres, with a mix of seaside cottages, historic inn rooms, townhouses, and modern lodge rooms. All guest accommodations are spacious with modern amenities such as flat-screen televisions, iPod docking stations, and the Internet that works like a charm. Dining options are varied, but this is Maine, so lobster shines.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 7 out of 12 hotels in Boothbay Harbor

Pros: Staying here means an authentic seaside Maine vacation, right down to roasting marshmallows and playing pickleball. 

Cons: There are typically many families with kids, so it's not the best spot for a romantic holiday. This hotel is seasonal and will be closed from November through May.

• Guests from any hotspot state may be required to certify that they have received a negative COVID-19 test within 72-hours of their arrival date. To certify, guests will be asked to sign a Certification of Compliance form upon arrival at the property.
• Programming will including take-out, picnic-style, safe dine-in options, and al fresco dining on the deck. Yoga will be held outside.
• Spa services, the fitness center, hot tubs and the debut of the new restaurant, Whiteclover, have been temporarily deferred. The oceanfront pool is in service.
• The hotel has adopted rigorous cleaning and hygiene measures developed in consultation with state, CDC, and global public health authorities. Antibacterial hand-sanitization stations are offered around the resort, and face coverings are encouraged in common areas.
• Safe physical distancing practices are suggested in all public areas with reduced capacities across outlets.
• Modifying housekeeping services to meet or exceed all Maine CDC recommendations.
• Increasing the frequency and depth of cleaning all public areas, including the use of hospital-grade disinfectants.

Best Getaway near Miami: Duck Key, two hours and fifteen minutes by car

Book Hawks Cay Resort starting at $191 per night

When Miami residents crave a laidback island road trip , the Florida Keys are an easy getaway. This chain of islands just south of Miami is a paradise of blue waters, seemingly endless sky, and tall palm trees. The Keys are divided into five regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine and the Lower Keys, and Key West. Duck Key is a secluded and exceptionally beautiful part of Marathon Key, home to Hawks Cay Resort. 

Hawks Cay's main hotel has 177 newly updated guestrooms, decorated with a soft color palette and natural accents. There are eight room categories, offering a variety of configurations, and many rooms have balconies with water views. For added space, reserve a two- or three-bedroom villa with oversized decks, water views, and full kitchens. 

The full-service marina makes it easy to fish, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or take a sunset sail. There are five swimming pools and a saltwater lagoon for protected swimming.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 2 hotels in Duck Key

Booking.com Rating: 8.2 out of 10

Pros: Hawks Cay feels like the Caribbean but you won't need your passport.

Cons: The hotel can be crowded in high season, especially during holidays. 

• All guests and staff members must limit the potential of physical contact as much as possible. Additionally, the front desk, restaurants, pool, and public areas require social distancing Visual guides are present for proper spacing.
• Facial coverings must be worn in public indoor spaces and outdoor covered areas unless consuming food or beverages. 
• Proper and frequent hand washing is required to help combat the spread of germs and viruses. Hand sanitation stations are available throughout.
• Each guest room is checked daily by the housekeeping or front desk team to ensure guest safety.
• Hawks Cay staff members undergo daily temperature screening and wear masks. Each staff member displays a sticker on their name tag to indicate they have been cleared to work and serve guests.
• Increased frequency of cleaning and disinfecting all public spaces with a focus on counters, elevators, door handles, public bathrooms, and wristbands provided to guests.
• The housekeeping team is receiving ongoing training to meet new cleaning and hygiene protocols. All guestrooms are cleaned, sanitized, and sealed prior to guest arrival. Hotel staff will not re-enter any guestroom once a guest has checked-in unless a special request, such as for fresh towels.
• Venues such as dining, pools, valet parking, and spa services may be altered or suspended.

Best getaway near Los Angeles: Joshua Tree, two hours and 30 minutes by car

Book Pioneertown Motel starting at $195 per night

Joshua Tree National Park lies 140 miles east of sprawling Los Angeles. It's a desert oasis with captivating light, intriguing giant boulders, wildflowers, and hardy plants, including the wild-armed namesake Joshua Tree. When Angelenos need a retreat from the traffic-clogged freeways, Joshua Tree's otherworldly geology, world-class rock climbing, and the starry night sky are only two and one-half hours from downtown's smog, or about 45 minutes from Palm Springs . 

Situated in the village of Pioneertown, Pioneertown Motel embraces simplicity and is located very close to the park entrance. Originally built as a hotel for film crews shooting Westerns in the high desert, the 19 guest rooms and cottages are named after movie stars, a nod to its Hollywood legacy. Each is decorated with locally-designed furniture, wood-fired stoves, and cactus plants. The pure desert air and Zen atmosphere exude a sense of wellness, while the small number of guests assures privacy.

There's a picnic area with outdoor furniture, and the former movie sets of Pioneertown are now home to art studios and one-off shops, including a vintage saddle maker. 

Trip Advisor Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (no ranking currently)

Booking.com Rating: 9.2 out of 10

Pros: The untamed desert vibe is authentic, complete with surreal sunsets and respected live music venue Pappy and Harriet's is only minutes away. Much more personality than chain motels that are the major alternatives in the area.

Cons: No televisions on-site, though Wi-Fi works well. 

• In addition to the recommended additional sanitization and safety recommendations from the CDC, the hotel installed a plexiglass screen to the welcome desk and implemented key sanitization on arrival.
• Check-in will be done with limited contact including room key sanitization.
• A touchpad will be used for all transactions and hand sanitizer is abundantly available.
• All employees wear masks and comply with temperature checks on arrival.
• The restaurant Pappy and Harriet's is open for dine-in and takeout and generously-spaced outdoor seating is available.
• Frequently touched surfaces are sanitized throughout the day.

Best getaway near Houston: Hill Country, four hours by car

Book Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa starting at $239 per night

When Houston residents need to press pause, they drive four hours to Texas Hill Country. It's home to limestone hills, hidden caverns, a sun-kissed valley, and riverside trails. In springtime, a carpet of bluebonnets paints the landscape purple. Dozens of wineries have made the area popular with oenophiles.  

Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa is a wilderness escape along the banks of the Colorado River in Cedar Creek. It's a sprawling 405-acre resort with 491 rooms and suites. The entry-level room is 440-square-feet, so there's plenty of room to spread out. Many rooms have private patios or balconies. Touches of limestone and wood bring natural elements indoors and furnishings have a subtle Western undertone. 

Guests share the grounds with an abundance of songbirds, hiking and biking trails, a pool with a lazy river, an 18-hole golf course, and horseback riding. The spa has 18 treatment rooms and features homegrown music throughout, in a nod to the state's rich music history.  

Trip Advisor Ranking: 4.5 out of 5 (not ranked currently)

Booking.com Rating: 8.7 out of 10

Pros: The inn's rambling outdoor spaces and many recreational options are an upscale Texas experience. 

Cons: The lazy river attracts boisterous children and the resort's size may feel impersonal, and large in an era of social distancing.

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations and will follow new procedures from Hyatt as part of their 'Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment,' a global bio-risk advisory council accreditation at all of their hotels globally. The first hospitality brand to commit to the GBAC STARTM accreditation will include the following measures:

• Detailed training at 900+ Hyatt hotels with internal and third-party audits.
• A working group of trusted medical experts and leading industry professionals from organizations like Georgetown University Medical Center, American Airlines, Ecolab, the Global Wellness Institute, and hygiene managers appointed at every Hyatt hotel by September 2020.
• Limited service available - food service, bar service, fitness center, pool.

Best getaway near San Francisco: Big Sur, two hours and thirty minutes by car

Book Big Sur Lodge starting at $249 per night

Big Sur's 70 miles of coastline along narrow Highway 1 is one of America's most unforgettable drives, complete with rugged cliffs, towering rocks, and redwoods. Over the years, the dramatic scenery has aroused the affection of respected writers and artists, from Henry Miller to Ansel Adams. All this beauty is a two hour and thirty-minute car ride from the Bay Area. 

Big Sur Lodge is located inside Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, putting miles of hiking trails at your doorstep. It's a harmonious retreat designed to subtly blend in with the redwood forest and Pacific coastline. The 62 cottage-style guestrooms are rustic and roomy with amenities including private decks, wood-burning fireplaces, and kitchenettes. 

The on-site restaurant overlooks a creek and serves simple, tasty fare at a reasonable price. The outdoor swimming pool, circled by towering redwoods, is open seasonally. 

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 8 specialty lodging in Big Sur

Booking.com Rating: 8.1 out of 10 

Pros: Spacious rooms and an unbeatable position within the boundaries of a state park make Big Sur Lodge very popular with families. 

Cons: Wi-Fi is often unavailable.  

• All lodging, dining, and retail services are reopened.
• Employees have been trained to carefully follow the CDC's guidelines in preventing virus transmission.
• The hotel is stocked with sanitizers, and surfaces are regularly cleaned with disinfecting wipes or sprays.
• Items that guests frequently touch, such as door handles, are wiped with disinfectant throughout the day. 

Best getaway near Washington, DC: Virginia's Hunt and Wine Country, one-hour by car

Book Goodstone Inn starting at $285 per night

Virginia's Hunt and Wine Country is an easy escape from Washington DC, reachable in just an hour by car.

As the name suggests, this region is home to over 300 wineries and many equestrian opportunities. Quaint towns, gentleman farms, and rolling hills dot the landscape for sleepy scenery that feels light years away from the chaotic Beltway. 

Numerous small inns are clustered along the country roads but none are finer than Goodstone Inn in Middleburg. This 265-acre estate looks like a fairy tale with colorful gardens set to the soothing sound of fountains and just 18 luxurious guest suites and secluded cottages.

The country-style decor and fine artwork suit the inn's old-world ambiance, while excellent Wi-Fi keeps things up-to-date. All accommodations are individually appointed, private, and romantic, and the limited number of guests and spacious grounds make adhering to social distancing guidelines easy. 

Recreational options include swimming in the heated outdoor pool, hiking and biking on private trails, and canoeing along Goose Creek. The inn's farm grows a variety of heirloom produce, which is woven into the restaurant's menu. A full breakfast is included for overnight guests.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 5 B&Bs/Inns in Middleburg

Booking.com Rating: 9.1 out of 10

Pros: The leafy grounds and wealth of outdoor opportunities offer a tranquil immersion in nature. 

Cons: You'll pay DC prices to dine at the expensive on-site restaurant. 

• Five individual private cottages are available to rent. Only one reservation is accepted per cottage so no communal spaces are shared (exception in French Farm Cottage and Manor House where cottage may be divided by a physical barrier with two separate entrances).
• Outdoor dining is offered, with takeout options and room service available as well.
• Hand sanitizing stations, antibacterial wipes, and masks are available throughout the property.
• 24 hour vacancy between all guest stays and after each stay, Dyson air purifiers are used to capture ultrafine particles from all angles.
• Touch-free check-in is offered. Room keys are sanitized and in the door upon arrival.
• The Goodstone team will not enter your accommodation after check-in. All requested items for housekeeping will be left at the door.
• All staff wear masks when interacting with guests, and gloved when delivering any items.
• Due to state regulations, spa, pools, and fitness center are closed.

Best getaway near New York City: The Berkshires, under three hours by car

Book Blantyre Country House Hotel starting at $435 per night

The Berkshires in Western Massachusetts scratches the itch of New Yorkers who crave nature but don't want to skimp on culture. The landscape is a patchwork of quaint villages, gentle mountains, and rural roads, less than three hours from midtown Manhattan.

The scenery and peaceful rhythms have long been a magnet for artists, musicians, and writers . Music lovers make seasonal pilgrimages to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, though, this year those plans might be altered. Towns like Lenox and Stockbridge are loaded with galleries, respected art museums, Gilded Age mansions neatly tucked away on side streets, and fine dining establishments. 

Set on rolling lawns just outside of Lenox, Blantyre is a bucolic country hotel with a castle-like Main House built in 1902, where a crackling fire and a glass of bubbly await. There are eight guest rooms in the Main House, eleven in the Carriage House, and four roomy cottages. A recent refurbishing embraces modernity while maintaining history blending heirloom furniture, detailed damask upholstery, and elaborate candelabra, plus fresh floral arrangements dropped in for good measure. It's everything you would expect from a Relais & Châteaux Forbes Five Star resort. Blantyre's intimate number of guests coupled with its copious dimensions makes it a fine choice for those who prioritize social distancing while on vacation. 

There's a gorgeous outdoor swimming pool, tennis courts, and rambling trails to hike or snowshoe in winter. Most evenings, guests may enjoy a concert in the elegant parlor featuring a talented in-house pianist.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 7 out of 17 hotels in Lenox

Pros: You'll feel like a Gilded-Age millionaire as you dabble in old-world grandeur and enjoy discrete service.

Cons: A bountiful breakfast is included in the room rate, though you'll pay dearly for dinner at the on-site restaurant.

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations. There are a variety of new safety guidelines and changes in place, in compliance with CDC and state guidelines. As such, visitors entering Massachusetts, including returning residents, who do not meet an exemption, are required to:

• Complete the  Massachusetts Travel Form  prior to arrival, unless visiting from a low-risk state designated by the Department of Public Health .
• Quarantine for 14 days or produce a negative COVID-19 test result that has been administered up to 72-hours prior to your arrival in Massachusetts.

If your COVID-19 test result has not been received prior to arrival, visitors, and residents must quarantine until they receive a negative test result.

Best Getaway near Philadelphia: The Pocono Mountains, less than two hours by car

Book The Lodge at Woodloch starting at $768 per night, per couple, with all meals and activities included

When Philadelphia residents crave nature, they head to the Poconos in the Northeast corner of Pennsylvania. Less than two hours from Center City, winter activities include skiing, snow-shoeing, and ice-skating on frozen ponds. In warmer months, hiking to waterfalls, biking, and swimming in fresh-water lakes and ponds are all popular pastimes. 

The Lodge at Woodloch is set on over 500 private acres of woodlands near the village of Hawley. Guests share fern-carpeted forest trails with a variety of wildlife and 58 guest rooms and suites all have views of the lake or rock garden waterfall from private verandas. Understated interiors strive to connect guests with nature's restorative qualities. Terrariums, Himalayan salt lamps, Cherrywood bed frames, and a menu of pillow options offer in-room calm and comfort. 

The hotel places a premium on providing a healthy environment for its guests, including keeping all spaces scrupulously clean and three health-conscious gourmet meals are included in the nightly room rate. 

Yoga classes, swimming in the pool and lake, archery, and cycling are a few of the many complimentary activities. The hotel's spa is a sanctuary of therapeutic soaking pools and eucalyptus-scented steam rooms with body treatments incorporating indigenous elements and therapies from around the world.

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 7 hotels in Hawley

Pros: The first-class spa and serene setting are perfect for low-key pampering. Most activities and three daily meals are included, so there are no surprise extras when it comes time to pay the bill. 

Cons: Cellphones must be placed on silent mode in public areas, which could also be a pro for some guests. 

COVID status and policies:  This hotel is currently open and accepting reservations with the following new policies:

• All staff wear masks and have their temperature checked upon arriving to work.   
• Guests will have their temperature taken on arrival and will be required to wear masks in all public areas throughout their stay. 
• Existing and enhanced housekeeping procedures for cleanliness and sanitization (including EPA-approved disinfectant) that meet and exceed industry best practices and standards have been instituted on a heightened schedule.
• Class and activity sizes are capped.
• Frequent deep cleaning of common areas and touchpoints such as handles, faucets, trash-receptacles, light fixtures, remote controls, elevators, buttons, keypads, luggage carts, and counters.
• Additional hand sanitizing stations have been placed in common areas throughout the property.

Subscribe to our newsletter. You can purchase syndication rights to this story here. Disclosure: This post is brought to you by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners. We frequently receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

• Main content

30 Awesome Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

We share our best day trips from Cincinnati to help inspire your next adventure.

Whether you are looking for a quick family getaway or a couples retreat, we have come up with various day trips from Cincinnati that are only two hours away or less.  From going on safari to unique ways to cool off during the summer, we have the perfect adventure to put on your bucket list.

These great destinations make great day trips or even weekend getaways from Cincinnati. It’s time to get off the bucket list because you will be adding a few of these immediately. This page contains affiliate links.

30 Top Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

Get behind the wheel of a race car during the rusty wallace racing experience.

If you are hunting for an exhilarating adrenaline-pumping experience, sign up for the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience at the Lucas Oil Raceway in Hendricks County, Indiana.  This is one of the few experiences that let you drive in a racecar unattended.

That is correct, after taking an hour course on safety and driving, you suit up and get behind the wheel of an actual racecar without an instructor.  This once-in-a-lifetime experience will have you white-knuckled as your approach upwards of 155 MPH.

For those not quite ready to take on the track along, they do offer a ride-along where you get zipped along the track by a professional driver.

Go On A Safari At The Wilds

It is quite bizarre to think one can go on an actual safari in Ohio. On the contrary, The Wilds , located in Columbus, offers guests a truly unique safari experience. See giraffes, rhinos, and other rare and endangered animals from your open-air vehicle as you make your way through the vast savannah.

Great lodging options are available, from a family-friendly lodge to adults-only yurts overlooking the wildlife. This is one of the coolest things you can do within two hours of Cincinnati.

Relax In Croctail Creek At The Columbus Zoo

After your Wild’s experience hop over to the Columbus Zoo for even more fun.  One of the great things about the Columbus Zoo is that it is home to an aquarium and a waterpark called Zoombezi Bay.

Zoombezi Bay is home to the adults-only Croctail Creek. This adult-only lazy river lets you sit back, soak up the sun, and float around with your favorite beverage.  This little sanctuary is a great place for adults looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy waterpark.

Sip And Shop Your Way Through Little Nashville

Known to many as “Little Nashville”, the town of Nashville, Indiana, boasts trendy boutiques, charming restaurants, and local wineries.  Imagine the most darling county store with a garden of beautiful wildflowers and turn it into a town; that is “Little Nashville”.

Quaint shops full of rustic charm line the bloom-filled streets. Every nook and cranny is home to a specialty shop that can’t be overlooked.  Whether you want to glam up your wardrobe, take home that perfect antique or find an original piece of art in one of the galleries, you can find it here in Nashville.

Brown County, Indiana is also known for scenic Brown County State Park, which comes alive with color during the fall months. The best is that this great getaway is two hours from Cincinnati.

Indulge In A Piece Of Chocolate Cake From The Cake Bake Shop

If you happen to be passing through Hamilton County, Indiana, it would be a sin to not stop by The Cake Bake Shop for a slice of their famous Chocolate Cake.  The experience of going to this exquisite cake shop is one that you will not forget.

The restaurant’s elegance, beauty, and interior are straight out of a fairytale. It is easy to see why this was one of Oprah’s favorite things.  I recommend trying a few of their tasty temptations and then taking a few things home as a souvenir.

Bike The Monon Trail

The Monon Trail is an abandoned railway that has been paved and welcomes bikers, runners, and those seeking a stroll.  Running from Indianapolis to Sheridan, Indiana, the Monon Trail is roughly 27 miles long, with plenty of great stops to explore along the way.

The trail cuts through Hamilton County, Indiana, home to a gorgeous art district, breweries, and plenty of family-friendly activities.  Bring a bike or rent one there but start planning this fun experience today!

Go Snorkeling In A Crystal Clear Lake

A quick getaway roughly 90 minutes from Cincinnati is  Natural Springs Resort, located in New Paris, Ohio . Snorkel in the crystal clear lake, snag the perfect fishing spot, then end the day with a marshmallow roast over a campfire. Natural Springs is one place that the family will want to come back to year after year with so much to do. 

The crown gem of Natural Springs Resort is the sparkling freshwater lake with a stunning rock quarry backdrop. This spring-fed lake offers many family fun activities, such as snorkeling in the clear waters and relaxing on the beach to rent a boat.

Explore the Old Athens Lunatic Asylum

The eerie mysteries that shroud the Athens Lunatic Asylum have intrigued and peaked curiosities for years. Now known as The Ridges, the Athens Lunatic Asylum operated from 1874 to 1993. The Asylum saw various patients, including civil war veterans, children, and those deemed mentally unwell.

It was meant to only house 550 patients when it opened; the Athens Lunatic Asylum surpassed nearly 2,000 patients by the 1950s. Later, small housing units were built to create small communities for patients to live in.

The hospital became known for its infamous lobotomy procedures along with electroshock therapy, hydrotherapy, and the use of psychotropic drugs.  I would recommend  pairing this with a progressive brewery making this a great couple or friends weekend getaway from Cincinnati

Learn more about the Ridges and start planning your visit to Athens with our Guide of Things To Do In Athens, Ohio .

Discover The Historic Side Of Lexington

A great day trip from Cincinnati is Lexington, KY. Lexington is home to plenty of fascinating history. With several of the historic homes and places, visitors to the area can go on a self-guided walk through downtown Lexington to scout out these historic landmarks.

Brochures featuring The Lexington Walk can be found online or at the Lexington Visitors Center.  While it is highly encouraged to walk the route, it is also drivable.  Discover the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, historic churches, the Hunt-Morgan House, and more. Hop in the car to see even more great historic homes, such as Ashland and the Waveland State Historic Site.  For a fun stop, be sure to swing into the Parkette Drive-In for a great meal.

Stay In A Historic Shaker Village

While you are in Lexington, be sure to check out Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.  The Shaker village has over 34 historic structures and 3000 acres from the early 1800s.

Opportunities are endless as you discover Kentucky’s Largest National Historic Landmark and learn about Shaker culture through demonstrations and programs. A truly unique aspect of Shaker village is that they offer 72 guest rooms located within 13 of the historic buildings.

This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in history while experiencing top-notch hospitality.  Each room hosts a countryside view and is furnished in the traditional Shaker style.

They offer many unique and fun events throughout the year, including Trick-Or-Treat and Holiday Festivities. Since it is less than 2 hours from Cincinnati, you can return for all the special occasions.

Catch An Outdoor Drama In Chillicothe

Located in Chillicothe, The Tecumseh Outdoor Drama drew visitors for decades. The drama tells the life story of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, who struggles to defend his sacred homelands in Ohio country during the late 1700s.  

VIP experiences and behind-the-scenes tours are also available. While in Chillicothe, explore the Hopewell earthworks throughout the area.

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Chillicothe .

Create Your Own Unique Bourbon Trail Experience

Are you are bourbon enthusiast?  Whether you enjoy bourbon or not, this is a bucket list experience you don’t want to miss. Kentucky is home to Bourbon Trail, which is full of great distilleries, craft distilleries, and even bourbon fudge made by monks.

Working your way through the entire Bourbon Trail could take days or even weeks. One perk of living so close is that you can customize your experience. Selecting a few distilleries each trip, is one getaway that can be a different experience each time you go.  After hitting the trail a few times, we have developed a list of favorite Bourbon Trail Stops.

Drive Through A Cave In Louisville

Another great experience less than 2 hours from Cincinnati is the Louisville Mega Cavern. This cavern is full of adventure, including zip lines, an aerial ropes course, bike tours, and more. This cavern has more than 4,000,000 square feet of space, which they utilize year-round.

During the holidays, the Mega Cavern offers Lights Under Louisville, in which visitors do a self-guided drive through a specular light display all underground!

Another popular reason to venture down to Louisville is for the Kentucky Derby!

Hike The Trails Of Red River Gorge

A great outdoor adventure awaits at a breathtaking Red River Gorge. This two-hour drive from Cincinnati is well worth it for those seeking to exchange the sounds of the city for those of nature. The gorge is known for its natural bridge, jaw-dropping view, and beautiful trails.

The Daniel Boone National Forest is also home to rafting, canoeing, ziplining, and more. Be sure to explore the gorge underground as you kayak through the cavern. Cabins, campgrounds, and nearby hotels are available for those looking to overnight.

Explore all of Dayton’s 5 River’s Great MetroParks

Dayton is home to an extraordinary park system. The  Five Rivers MetroParks offers nearly 16,000 acres of green space across 25 facilities. This includes 18 parks, conservation areas, and the 2nd Street Market. Each park offers great outdoor experiences and its unique activities for guests to enjoy.

From kayaking and hiking to horseback riding, there is something for everyone. Did I mention that there is no cost to enter any of the MetroParks?!  A few of our favorites include Carillon Historical Park and the Weygerzyn Gardens. Exploring the various parks makes for many different day trips from Cincinnati.

Discover Preble County’s Historic Bridges

A well-kept secret of Preble County, Ohio, has been preserving eight historic covered bridges. Many of which are still in use today.  Each covered bridge has a story to tell, or should I say each person in Preble County has a story about a covered bridge.

Many bridges have overcome fires, tornados, and oversized trucks, but the more romantic side of the covered bridges captures visitors’ attention. Take a day to explore all of the covered bridges in Preble County .  Nearby Hueston Woods is a great spot to stay the night or do a little hiking.

Embrace The Irish Culture In Dublin, OH

Whether you have a little Irish in you, or wish you did, Dublin is full of Irish charm for you to take in and savor.  It’s easy to get into the Irish spirit, as Dublin is home to the country’s largest three-day Irish Festival and The Celtic Cocktail Trail. There are plenty of things to do in Dublin Ohio that will surprise you. One of the most unique things to see in Dublin is the Corn Henge, a field of concert corn!

A tour of their famous public art, go zipling, venture a fairy trail, and more. May multiple day trips from Cincinnati to check off all the public art!

Peer Inside Old Man’s Cave

A little over two hours from Cincinnati is one of Ohio’s most scenic parks, Hocking Hills State Park.  There are many great hiking options here, but one of the most popular is Old Man’s Cave.  Many hikers choose to start at the Upper Falls because the Grandma Gatewood Trail begins its six-mile course connecting three of the park’s areas: Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave.

However, for those seeking a quick peek, a short hike from the designated parking area will leave you with a beautiful view of the cave.  This natural wonder is fun to visit anytime; however, try going in the winter months for a less crowded and more serene visit. The frozen waterfalls genuinely make it a spectacular sight.

Get our complete list of the ten best hikes in Hocking Hills .

Walkthrough The Vibrant And Eclectic Town Of Yellow Springs

From a lively downtown scene to sipping on ice-cold brews from Yellow Springs Brewery, this is one of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati to make with or without kids. Yellow Springs, OH, has laid-back coffee shops, unusual boutiques, and plenty of delicious food.

Nature lovers come prepared to hike, as on of the top things in Yellow Springs is to get out and enjoy their parks. The John Bryan State Park offers many hiking trails, while Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve has stunning limestone gorges.

Don’t miss out on a visit to the Glen Helen Nature Preserve to see the famous yellow springs and beautiful waterfalls.  After a good hike, head over to Young’s Dairy for a scoop of their delicious homemade ice cream!

Get Hand’s On At One of Indianapolis’ Famous Museums

Indianapolis is known as the perfect day trip for families because of its award-winning Children’s Museum. While the Children’s Museum is always a great stop, Indy is full of other great museums to explore. Consider visiting a museum full of percussion instruments that you can play at The Rythmn Discover Center or learn about the history of racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Stroll through galleries of stunning at Newfields or swing into the Eiteljorg Museum to view their collection of American Indian and Western Art. Indianapolis has something for everything from its vibrant food scene, deep history, and the Indianapolis Zoo!

Add A Layer Of Paint To The Worlds Largest Ball Of Paint

Tucked away in Alexandria, Indiana, hanging from an industrial size hook, is the World’s Largest Ball of Paint. What once started as a humble baseball now has over 26,000 layers of paint and counting.

Visitors to this Guinness Book of World Records Holding attraction can add a layer to the ever-growing ball. The attraction is free to the public; however, you must call ahead and schedule a time.

The World’s Largest Ball of Paint is at the Carmicheal home and is open by appointment only. A quick google search will yield the current phone number to contact to set up your tour.

Go Swimming at an Old Quarry in La Grange, KY

Another great day trip within two hours from Cincinnati is La Grange, KY.  Adults can cool off at Falling Rock Park .  It is an old rock quarry that is maintained solely through rainwater! Anyone over 18 can bring a pool raft, noodle, kayak, or paddleboard and relax.

While you are visiting, be sure to visit Mainstreet La Grange, one of the few places in the country where the train runs right down the middle of the road.

Hartman Rock Garden

Venture off the beaten path with a visit to the Hartman Rock Garden a spectacular collection of art made by self-taught artist Ben Hartman. One man’s legacy has become a unique Ohio roadside attraction drawing thousands of visitors annually. The garden is free to visit and is open year-round.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

One of the best day trips from Cincinnati is a visit to the Wright-Patterson Airforce Base, known as the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This historic treasure is the world’s largest  Military Aviation Museum. The Museum is FREE to the public and is open daily, except holidays.

The Air Force Museum has an impressive collection of iconic planes that will leave your inner child wanting to climb inside each one. The history and artifacts found throughout the museum are second to none.  Learn about the history of the Wright Brothers, see the plane that dropped the bomb on Hiroshima, and then check out the rockets in the space exhibit.

Tip: Be sure to check their special events to see when they will having their annual Airshows!

Explore Downtown Hamilton Ohio

One of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati is to Hamiton, Ohio. This small town is the perfect shopping retreat as chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, along with new experiences are popping up all over. Take a stroll along the Greater Miami River, visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, and learn about the fascinating history of Fort Hamilton. Start planning your trip to Downtown Hamilton Ohio .

Big Bone Lick State Park

Big Bone Lick State Park in Union, Kentucky, gives visitors the unique opportunity to view bison completely free! Remains of ancient mammoths and Pleistocene megafauna have been found in the area, making it known as the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

With plenty of hiking trails, a family-friendly campground, educational exhibits, a visitor center, and a museum, Big Bone Lick is the perfect Kentucky day trip or weekend getaway.

Tip : Big Bone Lick is near the Rabbit Hash General Store.

Explore Columbus

Columbus provides a mecca of entertainment options, from the bizarre art at Otherworld to the acclaimed LEGOLAND and everything in between! It is easy to spend a day or a week exploring all that this capital city has to offer.

Whether you are venturing up for an overnight at the Brewdog Hotel or planning a visit to COSI, Columbus makes the perfect day trip from Cincinnati.

See The Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals

Where the Scioto River meets the Ohio River lays the sleepy small town of Portsmouth, Ohio. Stroll the magnificent floodwall murals, hunt for antiques, or take a peaceful hike through Shawnee State Park.

The Portsmouth  Ohio Floodwall Murals  are an iconic Ohio landmark that portrays the local history through exquisitely painted murals. Over 55 murals adorn the floodwalls, each depicting a moment in time.

While you are there, discover these Great Things To Do In Portsmouth, Ohio.

Catch The View From Rising Park

Soak in breathtaking views of Lancaster, Ohio, by climbing to the top of Rising Park’s Mount Pleasant. Arguably one of Ohio’s most spectacular views, Mount Pleasant overlooks the city of Lancaster with the surrounding foothills in the distance.

To get to the top of Mount Pleasant, visitors enter through Rising Park. A parking lot is adjacent to the trailhead, directly past the tennis courts. The climb is moderate; however, remember that you will gain 206ft in elevation in about .7 miles. It took us roughly 45 minutes round trip, but you can stay up and enjoy the view for hours.

Visit Serpent Mound

Unknown to many, Ohio is home to the world’s largest effigy mound. The Great Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is surrounded by mystery, wonder, and tradition. It is a National Historic Landmark that should be on every Ohio Bucket List. Here are five fun things to do during a visit to Serpent Mound.

Ohio is full of remarkable earthworks, so much so that there is an Ancient Trail to help you discover them all.

Explore The Charming Small Town Of Troy, Ohio

The charming area of downtown Troy is one of the best-hidden gems in Ohio. Right in the heart of Miami County, Troy offers visitors unique adventures, family-friendly parks, and tons of midwest hospitality. Discover the history, taste the flavors, and join in on incredible local events.

Feeling adventurous? Troy offers one of the few places guests can stay overnight in Floating Tents .

Fun Day Trips Without Leaving Cincinnati

You don’t have to hit the open road to plan a great day trip from Cincinnati. Cincinnati is a huge city full of activities. Here is a list of the best day trips without leaving the city.

• Explore the riverwalks along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati.
• Spend the day riding roller coasters at Kings Island.
• Stroll the galleries at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
• Get a day pass to Great Wolf Lodge in Mason.
• Sign-up for a behind-the-scenes opportunity at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
• Tour the American Sign Museum.
• Catch a Red’s Game at the Great American Ball Park.
• Create your own Streetcar Tour.
• Eat your way through Findlay Market.

Looking For A Weekend Getaway From Cincinnati? 

On the hunt for a relaxing lake getaway a little over four hours from Cincinnati? Consider a visit to Put-In-Bay .  Known as the “Key West” of the North, many guests come to enjoy the beautiful lake views, entertainment, and history.  Hop on the ferry to the island,  rent a golf cart, and spend the day exploring this unique Ohio destination.

Get our complete guide to one of Ohio’s beautiful islands; Middle Bass Island!

More Day Trips From Cincinnati

Looking for more great day trips within two hours from Cincinnati?

A Girlfriend Getaway To Springfield, Ohio 

17 things to do in santa claus, indiana , 11 outdoor activities to do in richmond indiana , 30 day trips within two hours from cincinnati.

You May Also Like

Discover The Sights And Sounds Of Historic Preble County, OH

From Autism to Alzheimer’s The Cincinnati Art Museum Makes Art Accessible To Everyone

Why You Should Visit Walt Disney World After A Disney Cruise

TWO WORLDS TREASURES

Explore Texas & beyond from Dallas/Ft. Worth

19 Best Day Trips From Fort Worth – Under 2-Hour Drive

If you are looking for the best day trips from Fort Worth, Texas, you’ve come to the right place. Provided below is a list of cities less than 2 hours drive from Fort Worth. It’s simple; leave in the morning and return in the evening. It is ideal for solo, couple, or family travelers who visit Fort Worth, even the city residents.

My family and I enjoy exploring Texas from our home, about 30 minutes south of Fort Worth. Like most families, we are part-time travelers. It means we can only go somewhere far when the holidays arrive. We spend our weekends exploring the cities surrounding Fort Worth.

So, in alphabetical order, here are the best day trips from Fort Worth you can take next time you are in the city.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links and Two Worlds Treasures is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Programs. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Appreciate the support. For more info, see the Privacy Policy .

Best Day Trips From Fort Worth That Are Under 2-Hour Drive

Acton is a small town located less than an hour southwest of Fort Worth. Acton State Historic Site, Texas’s smallest state park, is located here. It is the burial site of Elizabeth Crockett, Davy Crockett’s second wife. It is only 0.01 acre in size.

Acton Nature Center is about 1.8 miles from the historic site. A lovely spot for some peace in nature. With wildflowers blooming and monarch butterflies covering the garden, spring is the best time to visit.

Granbury is approximately 15 minutes from Acton. If you continue a trip from Acton to Granbury, it makes a great one-day trip from Fort Worth.

Distance: 45-minute drive to the southwest.

Canton is your destination if you enjoy shopping or strolling through a flea market. It is home to the world-famous First Monday Trade Days, America’s largest flea market. This market has everything, from rare antiques and collectibles to furniture, home decor, arts and crafts, plants, tools, animals, clothing, jewelry, and various foods. It takes place every month from Thursday to Sunday before the first Monday, and dogs are welcome.

Canton’s First Monday Trade Days is a huge event. During Trade Days, some people spend their weekends here. For us, a day trip is sufficient. We can always return for another, especially when the weather is nice.

Canton is one of our favorite Fort Worth day trips. Don’t forget to bring your s hopping cart with you. 

Distance: 2 hours to the east.

I think you must visit the birthplace of the famous fruitcake from Collin Street Bakery . They also serve a variety of delicious cookies and pastries. When the weather warms up, you can enjoy them outside.

Of course, C orsicana has more to offer than just the bakery . Pioneer Village is a fun place to start your visit. You will learn about Corsicana’s history and the famous people born in this city. (Did you know Wolf Brand Chili originated in this city?) Do the Bronze Tour in conjunction with the downtown historic walking tour.

During your day trip to Corsicana, you can also visit museums and parks, take a driving tour, and go on the House of Prayers Tour.

Reminder. Corsicana became famous recently as a result of Netflix’s “Cheer” docuseries.

Distance: 1 hour and 30 minutes southeast.

The majority of Dallas’ attractions are in Central Dallas. There are four districts in the vicinity: Downtown, Uptown, Design District, and Deep Ellum. 

The downtown district is expanding all the time. There’s a lot to do and see here, and it’ll take a lot of walking. In the West End District, you can immerse yourself in Dallas history. Some of the attractions in this area include the Old Red Museum, JFK Memorial Plaza, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Dallas Holocaust and Human Rights Museum, Reunion Tower, and Giant Eyeball. You will find rows of restaurants, high-end stores, and the Dallas Farmers Market.

Uptown District is linked to the north by Klyde Warren Park. A vibrant district with shopping, restaurants, and nightlife options. Attend a Dallas Mavericks or Dallas Stars game at Victory Park, or visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. These are some things to do that interest visitors of all ages.

The Design District is the place to go if you enjoy arts and antiques. A slew of upscale art galleries and antique shops are here, next to high-end interior design showrooms. You can end your visit with a cup of coffee or a meal at one of the district’s restaurants. Choose from burgers and BBQ to home cooking, Thai, Mexican, and Italian dishes while you sip a glass of wine or cocktail.

Deep Ellum District is a hotspot for live music, cool bars, and casual eateries at night. It also hosts art and street festivals. You can find colorful murals, Traveling Man sculptures, and vibrant graffiti here. Start your day trip to Dallas in the morning and end in one of the nightclubs. Or, start late in the afternoon and finish with breakfast in the morning before heading home. It is here where you’ll find the famous Pecan Lodge BBQ. 

When you have an out-of-town company, it’s easy to say that Dallas is one of the most popular destinations for day trips from Fort Worth.

Distance: 50 minutes to the east.

Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th President of the United States, was born in Denison. In fact, in this city, you can visit the original two-story house where he was born. It is managed by the National Park and is open from Tuesday to Saturday, as well as on Sunday afternoons. 

E isenhower State Park is another popular attraction in Denison. Summertime activities include hiking, fishing, camping, and swimming. You should also visit Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. A haven for migratory birds and an excellent location for wildlife photography.

You can also visit wineries and distilleries in Denison. To name a few, Homestead Winery, Ironroot Republic Distillery, and Hidden Hangar.

Because Denison is the furthest destination from Fort Worth, you may need to leave early in the morning.

Distance: 2 hours to the northeast.

Denton is a college town known for its vibrant music scene. But it does not mean you have to wait until the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival to visit.

Begin your day trip by visiting the Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center. It has over ten miles of family-friendly hiking trails that take you through different habitats, including wetlands and bottomland forests. You can even schedule a hike with a Master Naturalist if you have five or more people in your group. Isn’t that amazing?

Then, for lunch, proceed to Courthouse square. There are numerous restaurants to choose from, but they recommend that out-of-towners visit LSA Burger Co. for both the burgers and the views. Denton Square is lovely, and the best view of the square is from the rooftop of LSA Burger. The burger joint also has a rotating mural wall where local artists can display their work. It’s a great Instagram background!

After lunch, visit the Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum, open from 10 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Denton County Historical Park, a few blocks to the south, is home to the Bayless-Selby House Museum, the Quakertown House Museum, and the city’s Welcome Center. It is a historic Denton structure. All of these museums are free to the public.

You can go mural hunting if you prefer street art. Local artists display their work on the sides of old buildings and in secret coves around the square. Perfect for Instagram.

Of course, there are boutiques and antique stores around the squares, and the big purple bookstore across the Courthouse has a vintage book collection. When you need a break, get some ice cream or a snow cone and sit by the Courthouse and people-watch. Alternatively, go to one of the nearby coffee shops. In addition, there are more beer taps in town than musicians.

If you know the story of the goatman, you must end your visit to the Old Alton Bridge in the late afternoon.     

Distance: 45 minutes to the north.

To visit Dublin, all you need is a car with a full tank. Dublin Bottling Works is, without a doubt, the most crucial attraction in this small town. They provide tours of their historic bottling facilities and the W.P. Kloster Museum. Don’t forget to stop by Old Doc’s Soda Shop inside the Dublin Bottling Works for a bottle of pure cane sugar soda.

V eldhuizen Cheese is one place that visitors seem to overlook. They offer cheese and farm tours in their location between Dublin and Stephenville. It is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience for your day trips from Fort Worth.

Dublin is also the birthplace of golf legend Ben Hogan. Visit the Ben Hogan Museum if you want to learn everything there is to know about him. Other museums worth visiting in Dublin include the Rodeo Heritage Museum and the National Health & Public Safety Museum.

Before you leave the Irish Capital of Texas, make a stop at Things Celtic to pick up some Irish souvenirs.

Distance: 1 hour and 30 minutes southwest.

Spring is the best time to visit Ennis when bluebonnet carpeted the suburb in April. Visit during the week to avoid crowds. Don’t forget to download the Ennis Y’all mobile app ,  which includes a bluebonnet trail map and information on local restaurants, shops, hotels, and events.

Ennis is stunning in the spring, and it’s no surprise it is designated as the Official Bluebonnet Trail of Texas. Another event not to be missed is the National Polka Festival, which takes place every Memorial Day Weekend in May. It would be fantastic if you could plan your day trip from Fort Worth during these times!

Distance: 1-hour southeast.

As the Dinosaur Capital of Texas, the number one thing to do in Glen Rose is visit Dinosaur Valley State Park. A place where you don’t only see dinosaur prints, but you can also step on it or swim with it. Miles of hiking trails are waiting for you here, too. Right before the park is Dinosaur World, where your young Paleontologist will be fascinated by more than 100 life-size dinosaurs roaming around 20 acres of land.

If you dream of going on a safari in Africa, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose is the closest to your dream. Giraffes, rhinos, cheetahs, zebra, wildebeest, and bongo are some wild animals you will see during the safari.

G len Rose has so many attractions for you to explore , and don’t forget to stop downtown for shopping and eating. It is also a place for the Somervell Historic Courthouse and historical architecture.     

Distance: 1 hour to the southwest.

Voted as the #1 Best Historic Small Town by USA Today in 2019, you can’t go wrong with your day trip to this small town southwest of Fort Worth. Park your car around downtown Historic Granbury Square, and start your day exploring the area.

Historic buildings surround Granbury Square, and in the middle of them is the iconic Hood County Courthouse, built in 1890-1891. There’s a museum in the courthouse that you can visit every Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The historic buildings around the courthouse house more than 40 boutiques, specialty stores, restaurants, bars, and even an Opera House built in 1886.

Walk one to two blocks from the square to see Hood County Jail Museum, a Doll Museum, and a Historical House with a Log Cabin inside it. It’s pretty cool. Then walk to the other side of the square, and you will arrive at Lake Granbury Beach.

When you need a break, stop at a pie place, ice cream parlor, bar, brewery, coffee shop, or winery around the Square. Or, take a free trolley ride that begins and ends at the Visitor Center. I took a trolley ride to rest my feet from walking, and I wasn’t disappointed. The trolley is a shuttle for Bed & Breakfast and hotel guests to and from the Square. So, I got to see some of the beautiful Bed & Breakfasts, hotels, and old houses in town.  

Before you leave the town, you might want to join the Ghosts and Legends Tours. In this tour, you will hear about the legends of historic Granbury and probably come face to face with the Lady in Red, the Faceless Girl, and Indian Joe. Then end your trip with the best-fried   catfish or barbecue in Granbury .      

It’s a place to experience a historic small-town charm. Park your car, walk around to shop, eat, admire the vintage murals, find a perfect art piece, and take a fun picture with the Hico sign.

The city has a variety of restaurants to satisfy your appetite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You can choose Hill Country style BBQ, traditional Italian food, fresh farm-to-table cuisine, or delicious Mexican food.

If you like outdoor activities, don’t forget to visit Siloville Climbing Gym. One-of-a-kind climbing experience where the owner converted a grain silo to wall climbing – inside and outside. A walking trail meanders along the Bosque River, and Meridian State Park is around 30 minutes from town.

Distance: 1 hour 20 minutes to the southwest.

Hillsboro is rich with local history and historical sites. It’s a perfect spot for history enthusiasts. Hill County Courthouse, MKT (Katy) Depot, Hillsboro City Library, and Hill County Cell Block Museum are some of them. Don’t miss it while in the downtown area.

Hillsboro City Library has a unique story. It is an adaptation of the Foundling Hospital for Children of Florence in Italy. It was built by Brunelleschi in 1419, marking the birth of Renaissance architecture in Florence. Google the hospital, and you will see the similarity.

You must visit the Texas Heritage Museum at Hill College if you have an interest in Texans during war times. You will learn a lot about the history of Texans in the Civil War, WWI, and WWII. There are exhibits on Audy Murphy, Vietnam War, and the Weapons Gallery.

Outdoor lovers, Lake Whitney State Park is only 15 minutes from town. It’s a favorite destination for water sports enthusiasts during the summertime. Visitors like to fish, boat, ski, swim, and cliff jump in and around the lake. It is also one of the favorite destinations for day trippers from Dallas.

Distance: 50 minutes to the south.

A little over an hour northeast of Fort Worth is Jacksboro. It is the destination for Texas frontier history enthusiasts. Explore the grounds and buildings of Fort Richardson, established in 1860, at the Fo rt Richardson State Park & Historic Site . Then hike or bike the Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway.

Then stop at Jack County Museum to learn about local history. Its location is in one of the oldest houses in Jack County. Built-in 1882 with materials freighted in by wagon from Jefferson, Texas, and paid for with $20 gold pieces.

Distance: 1 hour 15 minutes to the northeast.

MEXIA & GROESBECK

If the story of Quanah Parker always intrigued you, then a day trip to Mexia and Groesbeck is for you. Old Fort Parker in Groesbeck was the beginning of the story of Quanah when the Comanches captured Cynthia Ann Parker (Quanah’s mother) in May of 1836.

F ort Parker State Park is located in Mexia, around 3 mile or 6-minute drive from the Old Fort. Birds are abundant, and the sunset looks spectacular from the pier. Kayaking along the Navasota River is one of the activities that visitors enjoy in the park, besides hiking/biking, fishing, or swimming and geocaching.

Other places to visit are the Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site in Mexia and Limestone County Courthouse in Groesbeck.

Don’t forget to stop at Tehuacana on your way back to Fort Worth. This small town is the highest point between Dallas and Houston, and was nominated for the state capital of Texas several years ago!

Distance: 1 hour 45 minutes to the south.

MINERAL WELLS

One of the best places to do natural rock climbing in North Texas is Penitentiary Hollow in L ake Mineral Wells State Park , just around 4 miles from downtown Mineral Wells. It is a park for hiking, biking, camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing. We like to set up our tent in one of their campgrounds on Friday night and leave on Sunday morning.

Another outdoor activity in Mineral Wells that you shouldn’t miss is digging for fossils at the Mineral Wells Fossil Park. And you can take them home with you. You can use the fossil reference sign near the entrance to identify the type of fossils you have discovered. We discovered a lot of crinoids here. If it’s your lucky day, the Dallas Paleontological Society might have an activity here. You can learn more about fossils from them.

Mineral Wells is a small town, so don’t forget to stop at the downtown area. You can shop at one of the boutiques, furniture stores, and antique shops. Or, stroll along the street level of the famous Baker Hotel and read about the attractions and history of Mineral Wells and The Baker Hotel.

If you like outdoor activity, this is one of the bests for your day trips from Fort Worth. You can also bike from the Lake Mineral Wells SP to Weatherford.   

Distance: 1 hour to the west.

Thanks to the Fixer Upper home improvement tv show, Waco climbed rapidly to the top 3 destinations in Texas. Even people from Australia came to Magnolia Market to see what Chip and Joanna had for them in the store. Of course, there is more to see and do in this city. Do you know that Columbian mammoths used to roam in this area approximately 67,000 years ago? Head to Waco Mammoth National Monument to see “in situ” fossils and learn about them. Our family has been there at least four times over the past two years.

If you want to learn about Texas Rangers, stop at the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. A note for you, this is not about the baseball team, but the law enforcement. So, you will see lots of guns and badges here. If Dr Pepper is your favorite soda, you must visit Dr Pepper Museum.

Cameron Park has plenty of trails and playgrounds to enjoy for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t forget to climb Jacob’s Ladder with its nearly zigzagging 100 steps to the top. Or, for something lighter, visit the Suspension Bridge & Cattle Drive Sculptures, and have a stroll along the Waco Riverwalk.

Waco also has several wineries, distilleries, and breweries. Surprisingly, there is much to do and see besides the Magnolia Market.

One of the most photographed courthouses in Texas is Ellis County Courthouse in d owntown Waxahachie . Built in 1895, the courthouse’s architectural style designed is the Richardsonian Romanesque. With its turrets and spires, and the pink granite and red limestone used for the building, the courthouse looks like a fairy tale palace.

Like other small towns in Texas, you can see beautiful and unique buildings around the courthouse square. These late 1800s to early 1900s buildings are home to specialty stores, restaurants, businesses, an art gallery, and a museum.

Grab a self-guided walking tour brochure from the Visitor Center inside the Museum. Just follow the arrows, and you will find yourselves fascinated by the history of the city and the old buildings around the square. If you want to do some shopping, do it while you do the walking tour. After all, some stores and restaurants’ locations are in old buildings.

Waxahachie also has several colorful and beautiful murals that you can find while doing the walking tour. But best of all is the oversized heart sculptures. You can find more than ten heart sculptures at various locations throughout the downtown area and Getzendaner Park. They also have a Love Lock fence one block east of the courthouse.

In the late 1880s, Waxahachie was one of the prosperous cotton producers. As a result, beautiful Queen Anne and Victorian homes with their ornate “gingerbread” trim line the road to the downtown square. You can see them on your way to the Square or take the self-guided driving tour brochure to learn more about the houses. Every year on the first weekend of June, the city conducts a Gingerbread Trail Home Tour.

Remember “The Munsters” 60’s sitcom show? You can find a replica of the house here in Waxahachie. The owner designed and built it based on the footage of the show.

If you like biking or hiking, you can start your day trip in the city by visiting G etzendaner Park . It has a separate trail for bikers and hikers, where you will find lots of interesting things along the way. I like hiking here.

To end your day trip, take a Wa xahachie Haunted History Tour that starts at 8.30 p.m. from the Courthouse square on most Saturday nights. It will last around 2 hours, depending on the number of participants in the tour.

Distance: 1 hour to the southeast.

WEATHERFORD

Located between Fort Worth and Mineral Wells, Weatherford is home to two beautiful gardens. Chandor Gardens, which was designed and inspired by formal English gardens, and Clark Gardens, which got featured on HGTV’s “Great American Gardens.”

Weatherford is also the home of the First Monday Trade Days, always held the Friday, Saturday, and Sunday before the first Monday of each month. You will find farm animals, tools, antiques, collectibles, home decor, clothing and jewelry, and so much more at this market. Our son was excited when he found a vendor selling Lego pieces here.

When you drive to the downtown area, you will welcome from afar by the Parker County Courthouse. It stands tall in the middle of the downtown area, surrounded by antiques, boutiques, and specialty stores on one side. The Farmers Market is not too far from here, where you can find Weatherford’s famous peaches. My favorite time to visit the Farmers Market is the Fall season when all kinds and sizes of pumpkins decorate the areas.  

Distance: 40 minutes to the west.

A must stop when you drive on I-35 between Fort Worth and Waco for… kolaches. Of course, that’s not the only thing you can do in West.

Next time you drive by this Czech heritage capital of Texas, go a few miles to the historic downtown area. Visit the History of West Museum, where you will learn about this town. From the arrival of the first settlers in the 1850s, the railroad, farming & ranching, military veterans, the Czech and German immigrants, and the West Fertilizer Company explosion in 2013. It’s free, and the volunteers are friendly.

The West Depot is now home to a railroad museum and information center. You will find information and old photographs of the railroad and its connection to the West community.

A stop at West can easily make it on your way to Waco.

Distance: 1 hour to the south.

There are cities we still have to visit for day trips from Fort Worth. I will add them to the list whenever we visit those cities.

If you’d like to spend more time around Fort Worth, don’t worry. I’ve covered you with the best of Fort Worth photo spots . Put on your boots and cowboy hats, and you’ll get the best pictures for your next Christmas card or social media feed.

In the meantime, please pin and share this post with your family and friends who plan to visit Fort Worth. Or, if you live in the Fort Worth area, it is time to explore these cities. Traveling does not have to fly or drive for hours during vacation time. You can do it on the weekend.

Let me know your favorite day trips from Fort Worth by leaving a comment below. I will check it out if it’s not on the list yet. Remember. It has to be 2 hours or under 2 hours.

Thank you for sharing this:

Umiko Buhl is a travel blogger and the founder of Two Worlds Treasures. She travels around Texas to neighboring states and around the country with her family and dog from their family home in the south of Dallas/Fort Worth. Originally from Indonesia, she tries to go home every 2-3 years to spend time with her families and friends while exploring Indonesia. Her mission is to share her honest reviews of places she visited.

Similar Posts

Breathtaking Views From Historic Point Park in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

If we didn’t go on a road trip from Dallas to the Smokys, we would never hear about Point Park in Chattanooga. Not even the city of Chattanooga in Tennessee. There are so many things to do and attractions to see in Chattanooga. After searching for some info, we even spent one day in Chattanooga. Point…

5 Family Friendly Spring Hikes Picked By 5 Adventurers Family For You

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend. Also, Two Worlds Treasures…

A Guide to Martin Creek Lake State Park Camping and Hiking

Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas is a beautiful Martin Creek Lake State Park. My family and I went camping and hiking there, and we were surprised to see how peaceful and cozy the park was.  Disclaimer: Two Worlds Treasures is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon…

Things To Do In and Near Downtown Waxahachie Texas: A First Timer’s Guide

Hiking the Old Baldy at Garner State Park in Texas (with or without a dog.)

Have you hiked the Old Baldy Trail in Garner State Park? I’ve been meaning to hike to the summit of Old Baldy since seeing the stunning fall view of Frio River Canyon from the top of the Old Baldy on social media. Hiking to the Old Baldy in Garner State Park, according to many people,…

Is the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas, Worth Visiting?

After driving through I-30 E between Dallas and Texarkana many times, we finally visited the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas, last Christmas vacation. Disclaimer: Two Worlds Treasures is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. This post may also…

74 Comments

Thank you for this amazing piece on day trips from Fort Worth; I love your writing style and feel every line of your writing.

Hi Leonie! I’m glad you enjoy reading this article. I hope you find it useful, too.

• Pingback: Fun and FREE Things to Do in Glen Rose, Texas You Cannot Miss!

I loved reading about your day trip experience in Fort Worth. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Thank you! And have a wonderful travels to you, too!

I had no idea that the Fort Worth area is so exited, and there are so many attractions and places to see. I would love to visit Canton First Monday Trade Days, Denton, and Dublin for sure. It would be great to see gardens in Weatherford.

There are so many things to see around Fort Worth. Canton First Monday Trade Days is one of my favorite.

Wowee, there is a TON to explore near Fort Worth! We’re big time day trippers when we’re home as well.

Isn’t it a wonderful things to do?

Texas is high on my bucket list, feels like there’s just so much to do! You’ll find me in Denton mural hunting and Granbury for its number one ranking! I do love a good historic town 🙂

You made the best choices. 🙂

Such a big list of places to see and in great detail. I’d love to visit Canton, Flea Markets are always such fun and this sounds like a good place to find something unique 🙂

Yes! You can always find everything in Canton. I like that place.

This is one of the plus points of the pandemic this year- it’s really given us all a chance to explore our own regions. You are soo lucky to have soo many cool little towns on your doorstep! I really like the look of Waxahachie and Hico. 🙂

You are right! And we can do it in a safe way by visiting during the week, wearing masks, and keep our social distances.

Wow, I would love to go to Canton and check out the flea market, as well as the historical town of Granbury. Also my brother lived in Waxahachie for awhile, first time I’ve seen it mentioned in a travel article so that’s fun! Great list here.

Canton is our favorite flea market. There’s always something new every time we went there. We also visit Granbury and Waxahachie frequently. I just like Texas’ historic downtown vibes there.

Wow, thanks so much for sharing! This looks like such a great trip! I’ve bookmarked this so I can use it for tips when I’m planning my next weekend get a away!

The list is really great.

Thanks for collating such a travel list. much appreciated.

So pretty! I am getting ready to go to Texas in May. So I will see if I can make a pit stop at any of these locations!

Let me know if you need more info about Texas.

This is a great option for anyone living int his area. I have a cousin who lives in Denton and really loves it. I may have to visit her one day and take a couple of day trips.

That’s great!

I’ve never been to Fort Worth but so happy to know theres so many day trips to take from this point. I only know of Waco because of Chip & Jo’s show on HGTV, I would would love to visit there some day.

We’ll be happy to have you here. 🙂

I like road trips. I would love to take road trips during summer.

I’ve never explored Texas before, but I am totally up for going now! And I have an awesome guide to follow now 🙂

Amazing that there’s so many places to go to from Fort Worth in such a short drive!

I would love to visit Glen Rose and Weatherford. I always hear about great places to visit there. I am going to have to plan a trip there soon.

I have never been to Texas before. But, there are so many wonderful choices to choose. I would love to see the Old West!

Wow lots of beautiful places in Texas I love the beautiful structures in WEATHERFORD. Awesome photos!

I love reading your posts. It’s always full of things to do in every place you’ve been to. These are guides that will really benefit people.

I like the variety of views. Its good to break some daily routine eh?

So true, although not too many people take the opportunity.

I’ve been a fan of the Fixer Upper show. It’s always made me want to visit TX. This post made me want to go even more. Might be a trip we’ll be taking as a fam this summer.

That will be great!

There are so many options that I’ve never even thought about. While I’ve been to Dallas and Denton, I’d love to head over to Canton, Glen Rose and Granbury one of these days. The history alone would grab me.

You will love it there! Let me know when you come here. I can help you more with your visit.

Maybe ONE day I will go back to Texas. I was there in 2017 for a quick weekend for the Superbowl – in Austin – and had some GREAT bbq!

Texas will wait for you!

These are great bits and pieces about fort worth! You’ve done an amazing job collecting all these information.

this is a good road trips I will save this cuz I live in San Antonio Texas and this is a great way to explore more about Texas

That’s great! You can always contact me if you have more questions about Fort Worth and the surrounding area. I will be more than happy to help you.

I have only ever flown in and out of Fort Worth, looks like it is worth scheduling some stopover time – I love that a hotel is called the Nutt House!

Yes! You must make come and stay for a few days. So much to see and do here.

I’m a huge fan of road trips and day trips! It’s been awhile since I’ve visited Texas, time for another visit — including my bucket list stop of Magnolia Silos.

I haven’t really explored Texas that much but we would definitely love to visit Glen Rose. My kids are fascinated with dinosaurs. So, it would be exciting to visit the Dinosaur Valley State Park.

These are great suggestions. Such a great list. This is one of our favorite day trips from Fort Worth. If you like arts and antiques, the Design District is your place to go.

Thanks for this comprehensive post. I’ve saved it for our eventual trip to Texas!

Let me now if you need more information.

Waco definitely has been put on the map thanks to Fixer upper, but i love the history the area offers!! Pinning for a future trip to Texas!

It truly is more than the Magnolia Market. Let me know if you need more info.

These little towns look like great day trips from Fort Worth. It’s an area I would like to explore.

And I’m a bit sad because most of the people I know don’t know about any of these small towns.

These look like such great day trips from Fort Worth, Texas! I’d love to visit Waco some day!

This is a great post with plenty of suggestions for people to visit places of interest that are reasonably close to Fort Worth. The flea market would be high on my list, I’m sure it’s interesting to browse the stalls. Glen Rose would definitely be interesting to visit and see what the dinosaurs left behind. I’ve never visited Texas.

I hope one day you will find yourself here. 🙂

These are great suggestions if one every find themselves in this area! Texas is one of my favorite places to visit….thanks for featuring so many option!

You are welcome!

There are so many options there! We are planning a RV trip to the west part of USA. But we are unsure if something there is suitable for our family. So it is nice to see that something could be interested by our kids as well.

I’m glad you bumped into this post. Yeah, U.S. are not NYC, LA, or Las Vegas only.

Very nice blog on day-tripping from Fort Worth. In your blog you have described the Canton market which one is the largest flea market in America and away from just a 2-hour drive from Texas. I love the market because I love antique collectibles and other arts and crafts availability over there. I would put the name for my next travel destination.

It’s one of my favorite. Sometimes we came home with a small thing, but we always enjoyed our time there.

I love traveling for history and these day trips from Fort Worth seem to have an abundance of history and culture. Granbury seems like the perfect choice for me by virtue of being voted at the Best Historic Small Town. I would also love to go check out Canton for the largest flea market. That seems like an exciting choice.

I was surprised on my first visit to these towns. I didn’t expect to see the history, but that’s what I found.

I’m not a big shopper so Canton probably isn’t the place for me but I’d love to explore the art galleries and museums in Dallas though. I’m a big fan of street art so I’d be happy finding all the colourful murals in Denton, I’m not familiar with the goatman story, I’m curious to know! I’d be well up for the hiking trails in Dinosaur Valley State Park and taking in the nature. A great selection of trips from Fort Worth!

Great ideas here and even though I haven’t been to Fort Worth it is on the list. I also want to check out Dallas and Waco, as I have heard so much about them but never heard of the other places before. Now you have given me some more food for thought and I think I need a few extra days to check out these hidden gems. What the heck is that eye thing outside the building in Dallas? :O

Haha… It is actually part of the exhibition in Chicago in 2007. After it collected lots of dust and put it in a storeroom, a Dallas hotel owner bought it and installed it at the yard across the hotel to attract people attention. And it works.

It has been a lot of time since I was last in Texas. And missed Fort Worth entirely. So great to know there are also good day trips from Fort Worth. Hubby would definitely want to visit the flea market in Canton on First Monday Trade Days. He would probably spend the whole day. I am sure that visiting Denton for the Arts and Jazz Festival in April would be a lot of fun to plan. And we would have to see Granbury if it was voted the Best Historic Small Town. And a visit to Waco would be essential since we do watch Chip and Joanna on tv!

Glad to see someone who missed Fort Worth. Canton and Granbury are always our favorites. Sometimes we didn’t buy anything from Canton. Just strolling from one vendor to another vendor, and of course for a funnel cake. 😉 I can’t wait to see Chip and Joanna’s new project to be open to the public. I hope one day you will turn to North Texas again during your travel.

Wow, so many great options within a relatively short drive from Fort Worth…great list! I’d have to say First Monday Trade Days in Canton and exploring Granbury would be among my first stops, I love getting lost in history! (It must be such an unusual sight to see a cabin within a house. It’s hard to even imagine.)

You chose two of the best stops, which are also our favorites. We’re thinking about going to Canton this weekend, since it’s the First Monday Trade Days.

Any thoughts? Leave your reply here. Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Discover more from TWO WORLDS TREASURES

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

10 Ultimate Day Trips from Dallas within a 2 hour drive

Posted on Last updated: March 19, 2024

Categories Travel , Family Fun

Best Day Trips from Dallas on less than a tank of gasoline

Despite the seemingly endless new things to do in our city, the desire to get out of town for Weekend trips is always popular and Day Trips from Dallas are ideal.

Drive somewhere within 2 hours for a Road Trip in Texas can be the perfect way to escape and explore more of the United States. Let us tell you all about our favorite places, like Waco, Glen Rose , the best lakes and beaches to try, Fort Worth and so many more.

More: Places to visit in Texas

Travel can be such a chore, so we’ve made it easier than ever to find your ideal RV, trailer, or camper van to get you out there, so you can start your next adventure.

Traveling should be affordable, accessible, and simple, so we’re going back to the basics.

And yes, there are some charming small towns, a few historical sites, and beautiful recreational parks outside of Plano and Dallas but yet perfect for a day trip in Texas. 

More: Choose from one of 45 Lakes and Beaches you can drive to from DFW

Want to go for day Trips from Dallas, within a 2-hour drive for day trips nearby which will give you the out-of-the-city adventure you’re seeking and you’ll be back home in time for dinner? Yes? Perfect.

Here are our Best 10 Day Trips from Dallas & Road Trips from North Texas

Check out these 32 Beautiful Texas State Parks and National Parks within driving distance too that you can also visit as one of your many Day Trips!

Glen Rose, Texas – 1 hour 45m drive

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center , a 1,800-acre ranch is home to over 1,000 animals from almost 50 different species.

It offers visitors a chance to see these exotic, threatened, and endangered animals in a free-range setting.

It also has the largest cheetah breeding facility in the world, they support the health and future of cheetahs in human care and in the wild.

You can get a membership plan, and if you have out-of-town visitors, take them here for one of a few Day Trips – it’s guaranteed that everyone, young and old will have a blast. There is also lodging available if you want to have an overnight. The price includes breakfast and a morning safari guided tour.

More: Here are 6 great spots to go on a visit to Glen Rose, Texas

Dinosaur Valley State Park

YES, it’s for real! Today, you can walk in dinosaur tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River.

There are other things to do here including going for a hike, picnicking, camping, swimming, fishing, riding your horse, bike, watching for wildlife and visiting the interpretive center.

Please be aware that the Dinosaur tracks are in the riverbed and are not always visible. Contact the park before arrival for current trail status and dinosaur track visibility.

Make this one of many day trips from Dallas for a full weekend , by heading down to Glen Rose, where you can enjoy the Dinosaur State Park and Fossil Rim and much more!

Paris, Texas – 1 hour 30m drive

Just an hour and a half away, you can get your “Parisian” adventure, Texas-style by visiting the town’s Eiffel Tower, a 65-foot-tall replica topped with a big red cowboy hat. Sorry, this is one time where “Everything is bigger in Texas” isn’t true.

This is a perfect day or road trip for friends and family . 

You can walk around Historic Downtown Paris and the town square where you see the Culbertson Fountain and take a tour of the historic Sam Bell Maxey House.

For outdoor enthusiasts, you can enjoy walking, jogging, or cycling at Trail de Paris, a beautiful family-friendly trail just within the city limit. Perfect to add to your list of Day Trips!

Lake Texoma – 1 hour 20m drive

Located between Texas and Oklahoma is Lake Texoma, where you can have a relaxing or an energy-pumping adventure.

You pick your experience, and Lake Texoma will give you what you want especially if you are a nature lover and want to escape on one of many day trips from Dallas.

On the Texas side of the lake, there is Eisenhower State Park , which makes it a great landing point for you and your crew.  If you want to stay in the State of Texas, this is a great option for a day trip in Texas.

This park has everything you need for a day trip from Dallas full of fun, for example, swimming, hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and all the water sports that you can think of for a day trip.

And, don’t forget to check their Junior Ranger Program so your kids can complete a Junior Ranger Badge. 

We found some great places to stay at Lake Texoma too!

Fort Worth – About an hour from Dallas

There is a saying around these parts that goes like “This ain’t my first rodeo!” but many of us haven’t actually been to a rodeo !

A day trip to Fort Worth is a must for your street-cred when next you bring “out of towner visitors” here.

The historic Fort Worth Stockyards has earned Fort Worth, Texas its nickname, Cowtown, and if you come to Texas for a taste of the Old West, this is your perfect place! A visit to Billy Bob’s is a must if you go.

On your way West to Fort Worth, you could even fit in a tour at the AT&T stadium to see where the Dallas Cowboy’s play.

You may want to come back time and time again – be sure to add this to your list of Day Trips from Dallas.

We have some great ideas and offers for Tours and Experiences here and our favorite Museums

Read more: How to spend a Family Fun day in Fort Worth 

There are so many things to do in Fort Worth for the whole family but a favorite to mention is the Fort Worth Zoo – which has been named as a top zoo in the nation by Family Life magazine, the Los Angeles Times and USA Today.

You can get a 50% discount on the Pogo Pass membership which gets you admission free to the Zoo! 

Turner Falls in Davis , Oklahoma – 2 hour drive

Head North to Turner Falls Park, known for excellent hiking with beautiful scenery and as the home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall.

It is open all year long, but in summer this is especially a great spot to cool off from hot summer days.

The park covers 1,500 acres (6.1 km2), which contains miles of trails, caves, and geological features. One of the great features you do not want to miss here is Collings Castle. And, there are campsites and cabin rentals available if you’re going to go for an overnight stay.

There are great campsites at Arbuckle Mountains which is very close by.

If you’re planning to visit this area, we recommend that you also go to the drive-thru safari at the Arbuckle Wilderness Park.

Waco, TX – 2 hour drive

Waco, Texas is the home of Dr. Pepper, and Baylor University, and Magnolia Market has a lot to offer for a day trip.

This small city has become a popular day-trip destination since Chip, and Joanna Gaines started appearing on HGTV’s Fixer Upper.

If you a fan of the show, then that would be one good reason to visit this place. However, there are a lot of other things to do other than visiting the Magnolia Market, and Magnolia Table.

There is the Dr. Pepper Museum, Texas Ranger Museum, Texas Sports Hall of Fame, and Cameron Park Zoo, to name a few.

It’s also a great place for a Weekend getaway and one of our favorite day trips from Dallas.

More: Here are 32 of the absolute best places to eat, shop and things to do in Waco, Texas!

Save Money!

We highly recommend you purchase a Pogo Pass for every family member (over the age of 2), to get free access to all 5 of these attractions in Waco! You can redeem your pass anytime over the course of a year. We have an affiliate (exclusive) link to get you 50% off your Annual Pass.

Tyler, TX – 1 hour 45m drive

Go East on one of your Day Trips From Dallas. The Rose Capital of America and home of the Annual Rose Festival because it has the nation’s most extensive municipal rose garden. Tyler Rose Garden is a 14-acre park filled with the beauty of hundreds of different varieties of roses.

It is worth visiting, and every October is a celebration of its beauty, the annual Rose Festival. 

You can also check out Tyler State Park, a beautiful park for you and your family to enjoy.

There are ample activities for the kids and adults to enjoy like swimming, boating, hiking, camping, etc. 

Jacksonville, TX – 2 hour drive

Jacksonville, Texas, was once known as the Tomato Capital of the World and the town still celebrates its tomato history with a Tomato Fest every second Saturday each June.

So many fun activities, including a tomato eating contest, tomato peeling contest, tomato packing contest, best homegrown tomato contest, salsa contest, etc.  All things tomato! 

Before you get into town, remember to stop by at Loves Lookout off Highway 69, you can take in the view of East Texas. With an elevation of 713 feet, it has long been known for its spectacular views to the east. It is also a perfect place for a picnic or to take a walk with the whole family.   

And, Jacksonville is where the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari & Wild Animal Park is located. 

You can see a beautiful variety of wildlife and exotic animal at your own pace from the comfort of your own vehicle.

These are our favorite 10 places that are easily reachable within 2 hours of DFW, perfect for a Day Trip.

We also love these great ideas and if you’d like to go a little further you can head to 45 Lakes and Beaches you can drive to from DFW

Kim, from My Traveling Roads also has some great ideas on short trips from DFW too!

What are yours?

All articles and photos belong to Plano Moms LLC unless otherwise noted. It’s all copyrighted. If you wish to request to use our content  Email Us  first. All rights reserved. This site uses cookies to enhance your experience. We make no guarantees of any prices or venue-specific information listed on our site. We are not responsible for content on external websites linked to, including linked resources, an external blog post, any partner site, hotel property sites, or affiliate sites. We only write about places we love but we can’t guarantee you will love them, too. Posts may contain affiliate links at no cost to you. Some of our experiences have been hosted but this never impacts how we share the experience with you – opinions are always our own! We do not sell links or accept unsolicited guest posts under any circumstances. United States Copyright, Plano Moms LLC

View all posts

Kim Croisant

Wednesday 15th of September 2021

Thank you for including my quick getaways from DFW in this wonderful post here. I love all the destinations listed here!!

10 Scenic Trips (Including Fossil Creek) That Are Only A Few Hours From Phoenix

• Soak in the beauty of Fossil Creek Waterfall in Phoenix, a must-visit spot for its "Wild and Scenic" river, hiking, and family vacations.
• Experience the spiritual and active lifestyle in Sedona, with epic hikes, psychic readings, and a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross.
• Explore the adventurous history of Prescott, from cowboys to kayaking, fishing, and antique shopping, making it a true explorer's paradise.

Phoenix, popularly known as the "Valley of Sun," offers an extensive range of exciting and adventurous activities all year. Apart from seeing beautiful scenic spots, travelers can make their trip unforgettable by indulging in unique activities like desert hiking and hot air balloon rides.

Visitors interested in the aerospace industry can also have insightful time in the city due to its extensive industry dealing with aircraft maintenance, satellite technology, and crewless aerial vehicles. For everyone else, world-class resorts and award-winning food options help round out an itinerary in Arizona. Just outside Phoenix are scenic and convenient trips—including Fossil Creek—for travelers to enjoy on a day excursion.

Fossil Creek Waterfall (About 2 Hours Away)

Visiting Fossil Creek waterfall once during a visit is a must because it is one of Arizona's "Wild and Scenic" rivers. Activities like bird-watching, sunbathing, wading, and hiking entice travelers the most.

A prior reservation is necessary for camping around National forests. Other than that, it is a great place for family vacations.

• Open throughout the year. (Permits required between April-October)
• Do Not Miss: Carrying an extra set of clothes.
• Pets are not permitted

RELATED: Phoenix In March: How To Plan A Great Vacation To Arizona In The Spring

Sedona (2 Hours Away)

Sedona is a hub of spiritual activities, such as tarot reading, psychics, and Reiki healers. It offers epic hikes, jeep tours, and biking trails. This community nurtures people and encourages them to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle.

They support a diverse and prosperous economy without harming the Environment. Crystals and stones captivate the attention of tourists. Plan a vacation to Sedona in March for the best experience.

• When to visit: March to May
• Do Not Miss: Carrying hats to avoid the scorching sun.

The Chapel of the Holy Cross is a must-visit place for spiritual healing. Don’t forget to experience spiritual readings and hot stone therapy.

Prescott (About 1 Hour 45 Minutes Away)

A history full of cowboys, a decent climate, and whiskey rows make Prescott very enthralling. The city has plenty of nearby hidden gems, therefore, if visitors are true explorers it will be an adventurous time.

Prescott is the first territorial capital of Arizona that still has an old-time feel. Sports activities that visitors can enjoy here are kayaking, fishing, and canoeing.

• Visit from August to October.
• Do Not Miss: Visiting local shops of Antiques and Art galleries.

For more exploration, take a scenic drive from Phoenix .

Cave Creek (About 30 Minutes Away)

There are many free things to do in Phoenix , and tourists seeking the soul of the Old West must not miss a visit to Cave Creek. Travelers can explore unique desert towns where countless ranches offer private horse riding and other excursions. Multiple outdoor activities and plenty of shopping options will consume visitors' attention.

Cave Creek offers some of the best dining options as well. People gather here the most on Wednesday and Friday to see or participate in bull-riding.

• Visit from February to April.
• Do Not Miss: Visiting Mexican Pottery to see their handcrafted collection.

RELATED: 14 Vacation Spots In The US That Won't Break The Bank

Apache Junction (About 40 Minutes Away)

Apache Junction is in the Northeast region of Phoenix and makes for an excellent scenic trip outside the city. Several impressive activities and astounding scenic vistas make it worth visiting. Golf courses, hiking, lakes, and parks are its main attractions. Some groups offer aerial tours and sightseeing tours as well.

This place is a combination of modern and historic art culture. If tourists are fond of wines, they can visit different wineries and distilleries that offer a rare variety of wine tastings. Visitors should spend at least two days here to experience everything.

However, if the budget is tight, try exploring budget-friendly hostels in Phoenix rather than fancy hotels.

• September is the best month to visit Apache Junction.
• Do Not Miss: A visit to Apacheland movie ranch.

Include a visit to Canyon Lake and Silly Mountain Park in your itinerary, as they offer plenty of kid-friendly activities.

Verde Valley Wine Trail (1 Hour 40 Minutes Away)

It wouldn't be wrong to call Verde Valley Wine Trail a paradise near Phoenix. The Verde River flows along the valley, offering spectacular views through the trail. Every spot on this trail is unique and has exceptional scenic beauty.

Red rocks at the north, Mogollon rim at the east, black hills at the west, and Mingus Mountain at the south make this an unrealistic place. Vacationers can start from the Old Town Cottonwood and head to tasting wine as nine different rooms are within walking distance.

• Best in spring and fall season.
• Do Not Miss: Carrying shoes as visitors need to walk to visit the nine rooms.

Jerome (About 2 Hour Away)

Jerome was once a flourishing Copper mining community. It is famous for its haunted history and hillside setting. Visitors looking for a budget and cheap vacation to Phoenix should consider this place.

Jerome has many great eateries such as such as Haunted Hamburger, popular for its hamburgers and sandwiches. Places that visitors must visit include Gold King Mine, Mine Museum, and Audrey Headframe Park.

• Visit April to October.
• Do Not Miss: Visiting galleries and wineries

RELATED: 10 Phoenix To Las Vegas Road Trip Stops That Ignite The Spirit Of Adventure

Tempe (15 Minutes Away)

Start your day with an entertaining game at the Sun Devil Football Stadium and enjoy a night out on Mill Avenue. This place has a welcoming nature. Paid attractions are the main highlight here, such as Inferno Escape Room, Imagine 3D Mini-golf, Octane raceway, and Gravity Extreme.

Tempe is also popular because the American Society organizes events like Hispanic Heritage Month at Tempe every year.

• Visit from September to November.
• Do Not Miss: Witnessing the mesmerizing sunset of Tempe.

Montezuma Castle National Monument (1 Hour 15 Minutes Away)

The Sinagua people built Montezuma Castle National Monument to preserve the Native American culture. This place is perfect for visitors who are culture fanatics and want to see the cultural vividness of the country.

Tourists can come here to witness this five-story building aboding 20 rooms. It lies on the Verde River, giving a picturesque view throughout the year.

• Visit all year.
• Do Not Miss: Booking a guide for better exploration.

Lake Pleasant Regional Park (45 Minutes Away)

Lastly, a visit to Lake Pleasant Regional Park becomes inescapable to make the trip refreshing. A day out at this park will be highly relaxing and calming, giving travelers time to have some ‘me’ time.

Mesmerizing views of the park attract thousands of visitors every year. There are many options, from star gazing to enjoying the scenic beauty underwater through Scuba Diving. Top spots to visit here include discovery Center and Moonlight Scorpions.

• Open all around the year.
• Do Not Miss: Carrying hat to protect from scorching sun during summer.

Stopping Point Calculator

Plan a road trip with stops.

Travelmath helps you figure out where to stop when planning a long road trip from one location to another. The best stopping point for an overnight hotel stay or a break from driving often depends on how far or how long you want to drive before pausing to rest. You can find the closest city to your stopping point to look for hotels, or explore other cities and towns along the route. Use this as a road trip planner when you're driving cross-country or mapping a route with multiple stops.

You can also calculate the halfway point between cities, the total driving distance or driving time , or get a budget for your next road trip.

Home  ·  About  ·  Terms  ·  Privacy

• International

Israel-Hamas war

Taiwan quake

March 27, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapse

By Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Elise Hammond , Tori B. Powell and Aditi Sangal , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Here's what you should know about the Key Bridge collapse

From CNN staff

Officials recovered the bodies of two construction workers who were on Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge when it collapsed early Tuesday morning after a 984-foot-long cargo ship collided into a pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore called the collapse Wednesday " a global crisis ."

"The national economy and the world's economy depends on the Port of Baltimore. The port handles more cars and more farm equipment than any other port in the country," Moore said.

Here's what you should know:

• The victims: The six people who are presumed dead were from Mexico Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras, according to Col. Roland L. Butler Jr, the superintendent of Maryland State Police. Two bodies were recovered and have been identified as Alejandro Hernandez Fuentes from Mexico and Dorlian Ronial Castillo Cabrera from Guatemala. The two workers were filling potholes on the bridge and were later found trapped in a red pickup truck in about 25 feet of water, Butler said. The FBI is handling notifying the victims' families, Butler said.
• Recovery efforts: Authorities are pausing search efforts for the four other workers who are presumed dead, because additional vehicles are encased in concrete and other debris, making it unsafe for divers, Butler said. Once salvage operations clear the debris, divers will search for more remains, he said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the fatal incident, according to the agency's chair Jennifer Homendy. During a Wednesday news conference, Homendy said there were 21 crew members and two pilots on board the Dali cargo ship when it crashed into the bridge. She also said a senior NTSB hazmat investigator identified 56 containers of hazardous material, and that some containers are in the water. The agency received six hours of voyage data from the ship and the investigation could take 12 to 24 months to complete, Homendy said. She emphasized that NTSB will not analyze information collected or provide conclusions while on scene of the collapse.
• Looking forward: Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said rebuilding the bridge will not be "quick or easy" but that it will get done. He said there are four main focus points ahead: reopening the port, dealing with supply chain issues until its reopening, rebuilding the bridge and dealing with traffic issues until the bridge is rebuilt. Biden  pledged the full support  of the federal government in the response and recovery efforts. His administration has already conveyed a sense of urgency to open up federal funding to remove debris and ultimately rebuild the bridge. Maryland has submitted a request to the Biden administration for emergency relief funds "to assist in our work going forward," Moore said Wednesday.

It's almost impossible to place people on the bow of ship due to the unstable structure, fire official says

 From CNN's Sarah Engel

Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace said Wednesday that the cargo ship's bridge structure and containers at the bow remain unstable.

"It's going to be very difficult, if not impossible, and very dangerous, to place people on the bow of that boat right now," Wallace told CNN's Kaitlan Collins.

"Naturally, we're still very cognizant of the fact that there are hazardous materials on board the vessel itself," Wallace said, alluding to the National Transportation Safety Board saying earlier that 56 containers were carrying hazardous materials.

Wallace said his team is relying heavily on aerial recognizance, including drones. "That's the only way we're able to see in," he said.  

He added that the aerial surveillance has "been able to really assure us right now we have no [chemical] reactions on board." 

"It's just utter devastation," NTSB chief says of the bridge collapse site

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

Jennifer Homendy, chair of the National Transportation Safety Board, called the site of the Key Bridge collapse "devastating."

"It's pretty devastating, certainly, seeing not just what's going on with the cargo containers, but just looking at what was a bridge span — three bridge spans that is pretty much gone. It's just utter devastation," she said at Wednesday evening's news briefing.

She added that she is thinking of families who lost loved ones and those who are waiting to reunite with their lived ones.

NTSB interviewed the Dali's captain and some other crew members today, agency chief says

The National Transportation Safety Board has interviewed the ship's captain, his mate, the chief engineer and one other engineer today, according to Chair Jennifer Homendy.

The two pilots on board the Dali at the time of collision will be interviewed tomorrow, she added.

Cargo ship's voyage data recorder is basic when compared to an airplane's, NTSB chair says

From CNN's Tori B. Powell

The voyage data recorder on the cargo ship Dali was a "newer model" but is considered basic when compared to that on an airplane, according to National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy.

"But it is very basic compared to say, a flight data recorder, where we would have 1,000 parameters," she said at a news conference on Wednesday.

The NTSB chief investigator Marcel Muise added:

"It's not a ship-wide system recorder, so most of the sensors that are being recorded are from the bridge. So things like GPS, the audio, rudder feedback, rudder commands are recorded on there. But not engineering, the temperature of each cylinder, power distribution sensors."

There were no tug boats with Dali at the time of the collision. That's normal, NTSB chief says

There were no tugs with Dali when the cargo vessel collided with Baltimore's Key Bridge, which is normal protocol, according to National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy.

Remember: At 01:26:39 on Tuesday, Dali's pilot made a general very high frequency (VHF) radio call for tugs in the vicinity to assist, the NTSB investigator Marcel Muise had said.

"The tugs help the vessel leave the dock, leave the port and get into the main ship channel. And then they leave. Once it's on its way, it's a straight shot through the channel. So there are no tugs with the vessel at the time. So they were calling for tugs," she said.

NTSB chair says she saw some containers that were carrying hazardous materials in the water

National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy said she did see some of the 56 containers that were carrying hazardous materials in the water.

When asked how many

When asked how many containers of hazardous materials were in the water, Homendy said:

"I did see some containers in the water, and some breached significantly on the vessel itself," she said. "I don't have an exact number, but it's something that we can provide in an update."

Homendy said that a preliminary report should be out in two to four weeks.

This post has been updated with more quotes from Homendy.

Bridge did not have any redundancy, unlike the preferred method for building bridges today, NTSB chair says

Baltimore's Key Bridge did not have any redundancy, which is included in the preferred method of building bridges in the present day, according to National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy.

"The bridge is a fracture critical," she explained. "What that means is if a member fails that would likely cause a portion of, or the entire bridge, to collapse, there's no redundancy. The preferred method for building bridges today is that there is redundancy built in, whether that's transmitting loads to another member or some sort of structural redundancy. This bridge did not have redundancy," Homendy said.

There are 17,468 fracture critical bridges in the United States out of 615,000 bridges total, she said, citing the Federal Highway Administration.

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis, Indiana, 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland, Ohio, 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

Related Stories

How to keep your luggage safe when traveling

• Mar 29, 4:10 AM

April total solar eclipse: Where to avoid clouds

• Apr 1, 5:02 AM

Why April’s total solar eclipse will be historic

• Apr 3, 10:27 AM

Total solar eclipse weather forecast on April 8

• Apr 3, 11:12 AM

How the solar eclipse will impact plants, animals

• Apr 3, 6:06 AM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events