good getaway weekend trips

The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA

Looking to get away for a weekend? Well, you’re in luck: there are so many incredible weekend getaways in the USA!

The more we travel in our home country, the more we appreciate how its enormous size and incredible diversity mean that city breaks in the United States can cover just about any interest.

Want to lay out on one of the best urban beaches in the world, drink craft beer, attend an unforgettable festival, go hiking, hit a casino, or simply experience some of the most iconic tourist sites in the world in quick succession?

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Or, maybe you want to dig into a unique and delicious food scene, learn a bit of American history, or engross yourself in a walkable area and leave driving behind for your whole weekend trip?

No matter what you like to do, there’s an American city (or six) for that.

Here are 15 of the best cities for weekend getaways in the USA.

Table of Contents

Southern Weekend Getaways in the USA

Western weekend getaways in the usa, eastern weekend getaways in the usa, central weekend getaways in the usa.

New Orleans

It’s often said that there’s nowhere like New Orleans–and that is completely true.

Spending a weekend in New Orleans ( or even a single day ) means lots of jazz, lots of delicious food (gumbo, beignets, po’ boys, muffulettas, and more–oh my!), and lots of good times.

Be sure to make time for a ghost tour to take a look at the more mystical part of the city (even if you’re not the superstitious type, I promise a ghost tour is worth it in NOLA!), and a bayou tour to check out southern Louisiana’s incredible landscape.

And, while it’s easy to have nothing but good times in New Orleans, you can (and arguably should) add more depth to your trip as well: consider a day trip out to somewhere like the Whitney Plantation to learn a bit about NOLA’s dark past, or even a Katrina-themed tour discussing the serious impacts of the 2005 hurricane.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

• Best Western Plus French Quarter Landmark Hotel : The hotel itself is beautiful in that classic New Orleans way, and the (included) breakfast is varied and tasty. Best of all, this hotel is situated right on the edge of the French Quarter, meaning that all of the French Quarter and some areas beyond are within easy walking distance.
• Omni Royal Orleans Hotel : Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this beautiful hotel is known for its gorgeous building, attentive service, and lovely ambiance–plus its ghosts. Yeah, that attentive service? It just may come in the form of the ghost maid who likes to tuck guests in at night!

If you’re hoping to soak up some fun in the sun during your USA weekend getaway, look no further than Miami.

South Beach is often considered one of the best urban beaches on the planet, and we’d have to agree! 

Don’t limit yourself just to the beach, though: be sure to explore Miami Beach’s impressive Art Deco architecture, eat your way through Little Havana, admire street art in Wynwood, and check out the views from Biscayne Bay.

For those who want to experience some unique nature in south Florida during their trip, consider also planning a trip out to the Everglades–or if you have a few extra days, road-tripping your way all the way to Key West , the southernmost point in the USA!

Where to Stay in Miami

• Hotel Impala : We love staying here! The room was clean, the shower divine, the customer service lovely, and–most importantly–the location on Collins Ave. was absolutely  perfect.  Located in the heart of the Art Deco district and a five-minute walk from South Beach while still offering a quiet place to sleep at night, Hotel Impala had a location you just can’t beat in Miami Beach.
• The Marlin Hotel : This hotel offers the chance to stay in one of Miami Beach’s historic art deco buildings! Boasting a fantastic location on Collins Avenue, impeccable customer service, incredible reviews, and spacious suites, the Marlin Hotel is the perfect hotel for those looking for a luxury experience while also seeing a side of Miami Beach’s Art Deco history that not every visitor to the city gets to.

Dripping with Spanish moss and home to one of the most stunningly beautiful historic centers of any city in the United States, Savannah is the perfect place to head for a weekend trip : not too big, not too small, and positively packed with some of the best southern food you could ever hope to find.

Come here to wander through all 22 of Savannah’s remaining town squares, tour a house museum or two, pay a visit to Forsyth Park, and to wander along gorgeous Jones Street.

Shoppers will love all the boutiques on Broughton Street, River Street, and in City Market, and those looking to indulge their taste buds will find limitless incredible food in Savannah , from classic southern meals at the Olde Pink House to tasty ice cream at Leopold’s.

If you’re a former Girl Scout like me, or just interested in their history, be sure to also pay a visit to the home of the organization’s founder, Juliette Gordon Low.

Where to Stay in Savannah

• The Marshall House : Featuring a popular included breakfast, a fantastic location in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and phenomenal reviews, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Marshall House!
• Foley House Inn : Easily my favorite hotel that I’ve stayed in while in Savannah, the Foley House Inn is absolutely beautiful inside and out, and has a perfect location right on Chippewa Square.

Of all of the weekend getaways in the USA covered here, Asheville is one of the best options for a group divided on whether to visit a city or the great outdoors.

Home to an epic craft beer scene, the incredible Biltmore Estate, plenty of street art, and delicious food options, there’s no doubt that Asheville appeals to the city lovers among us.

Its location right next door to the Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, however, make it a fabulous US weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well, and there are plenty of easy hikes near Asheville that allow travelers of all skill levels to enjoy the beautiful mountain setting.

No matter what your interests are, try to make time during your trip to Asheville to drive a small piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway–especially if you’re visiting in the fall and can enjoy the changing colors. Often considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States, it’s a sight not to be missed.

Where to Stay in Asheville

• Cedar Crest Inn: This pink 1891 mansion house is a perfect place to base yourself in Asheville. Packed with historical details and stunning architecture you can imagine it as a mini Biltmore.
• The Applewood Manor : Located within walking distance of downtown via a greenbelt trail, The Applewood Manor feels like it’s in a peaceful, quiet location–but it’s still in a perfect location to make the most of Asheville.

Home to country music, hot chicken, street art, and plenty of barbecue, there’s no doubt that Nashville, Tennessee is an excellent place to let the good times roll on your weekend away.

While Nashville is extremely popular as a bachelorette party destination and for other girls’ getaways, large groups are far from the only types of travelers who will enjoy a weekend in Music City, USA.

The best places to visit in Nashville include visiting the Grand Ole Opry (both for the show and for the backstage tour!), checking out the Johnny Cash Museum, seeing the Country Music Hall of Fame, and exploring Gulch, the street art neighborhood home to, among many other things, the #instagramfamous Nashville wings.

Be sure to save some time to enjoy the city’s famous nightlife when exploring the best things to do in Nashville . Its tasty food is also an important ingredient on any Nashville bucket list –be sure to try the hot chicken at least once, but be aware of your heat tolerance before ordering!

Where to Stay in Nashville

• Hutton Hotel: Book into this stylish hotel for your romantic trip, relax on the hotel balcony, or stroll 10 minutes to Music Row.
• Virgin Hotels: Part of the Virgin Group and with all the luxury details you might expect, with plenty of red and white details.

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south: fantastic southern food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, lots of history to uncover–but it absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

Be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Plantation, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Even for non-military-history buffs like us, these sights can still be an interesting way to spend some time!

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach!

Where to Stay in Charleston

• Market Pavillion Hotel : This hotel is a stunning choice in the heart of the historical district. Rooms feature four poster beds and charming classic decor, but the hotel amenities are really special with a mosaic pool and even its own Executive Pastry Chef whipping up delicious pastries for breakfast.
• French Quarter Inn : Another fabulous historical hotel is this one in the french quarter overlooking Charleston City Market. You are welcomed with champagne on arrival, there is also a port wine and cheese reception and freshly baked cookies with milk are served every evening. The perfect treats for your trip! Rooms are vintage inspired and really beautiful. This is the loveliest spot in Charleston.

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the most popular west coast weekend getaways in the USA.

A weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and  check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods? Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside? Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Where to Stay in Seattle

• Gaslight Inn : Located on Capitol Hill this historic building is a great option for Seattle. Recognized as a historic landmark and beautifully preserved but with all the modern luxuries.
• MarQueen Hotel: Another historic hotel, built in 1918 in the Queen Anne neighborhood. Rooms all have hardwood floors and period features, as well as huge beds perfect for your romantic trip.

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw. 

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your list of things to do in Portland !

Where to Stay in Portland

• Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : This historic hotel offers a hot tub, steam room, full-service spa, and other luxurious amenities that will truly make your vacation to Portland one to remember!
• Portland Harbor Hotel: Located on Portland Waterfront is this luxury and stylish hotel. With beautifully designed rooms and a great restaurant, you are also well located to explore more of Portland.

Possibly the most iconic of all these weekend getaways in the USA, Las Vegas is a prime destination for short trips.

First-time visitors will certainly want to hit the Strip, even if only to check out the hotels, fountains, malls, and generally see what all the fuss is about–but there’s more to Vegas than the Strip (if you want there to be, that is).

Whether you want to hit the casinos to gamble and soak in some shows, check out Las Vega’s interesting (and far less touristed) downtown area, or get out and experience the fantastic natural highlights of the Southwest, Las Vegas has something to offer.

While the more-famous southern rim of the Grand Canyon is really too far away from Las Vegas to make a practical day trip, options like Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock Canyon, and the Hoover Dam are all possibilities.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

• The Venetian: As one of the most iconic hotels on the Las Vegas strip this is a fabulous choice for your romantic trip. Everything about this resort is luxurious and huge, from the 1.2-acre pool deck to the in house shopping mall. Book a suite and feel like a real star.
• Bellagio: Fans of the Ocean franchise will know this hotel and its fountains, although almost any Las Vegas fans know the fountain show of the Bellagio! Stay in this famous hotel for the ultimate treat.

San Francisco

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of best USA weekend getaways–and with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco: the Muir Woods are an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Petit Auberge: This adorable hotel in Nob Hill is the perfect place to base yourself for a romantic trip. Styled like a French Auberge with cozy furnishings and fireplaces in the rooms, opening onto pretty terraces, the hotel also has private parking. Essential in the city.
• Beacon Grand: Opened in 1928 as a hotel for the creators of San Francisco society and recently reopened after restoration preserving architectural details and artisan crafts. Stay in a stunning piece of history and feel like a star.

New York City

How much of New York can you see on just a USA weekend getaway? Enough that you’ll want to come back immediately.

New York certainly can’t be “done” in a weekend–nor can it be done in a lifetime–but the great thing about New York City is that no matter who you are or what your interests are, whether you want to track down iconic spots, explore the best food in New York , see a show (or three), or discover offbeat NYC , you can find something to captivate you.

For tourists hoping for the classic NYC experience like we were on our first few visits, a weekend in New York is certainly long enough to see all those sights we’ve seen in movies and shows throughout our lives!

Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, Times Square, the Public Library, a Broadway show or two, a visit to Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge–in a weekend, you can see all of that and more.

If you’re into museums, we also recommend hitting just one (no more–too much else to do!) during your weekend in New York: the Met, MOMA, and the Natural History Museum are all great, classic choices.

Where to Stay in New York

• The Plaza Hotel : For a memorable place to stay, this is one of the most classic and luxurious hotels in New York. It is located right by Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some of NYC’s most popular museums.
• The Renwick: Offering stylish residential style accommodation, this beautiful hotel is equipped with plenty of amenities and high class comfort. It is also a short walk to the Empire State Building and Bryant Park for exploring.

Incredibly beautiful and steeped in both American history and its own distinct, modern culture, Boston is one of those cities you visit for a weekend and fall in love with for a lifetime (we would know–we’ve been crazy about it ever since our brief 3-month stint of living there!).

While you’re there, be sure to visit the picturesque North End, fashionable Back Bay, and grand Beacon Hill–three Boston neighborhoods you absolutely can’t miss.

Also consider strolling through the Boston Public Garden (one of our favorite spots in the city) and the Boston Common, visiting the penguins at New England Aquarium, meandering along the Freedom Trail, and hitting the water with a whale-watching cruise .

Bibliophiles like us shouldn’t miss the Boston Public Library (check out the Reading Room on the second floor!), nor Brattle Bookshop.

Sports fans, head directly to Fenway Park for a tour and/or a game.

Where to Stay in Boston

• Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
• Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

Washington DC

Our country’s capital city is not only the seat of our national government, it’s also a fabulous place for a weekend trip in the United States, and an incredibly popular stop for visitors from other countries who are planning a trip to the USA !

Museum-goers will be delighted with the enormous array of impressive options to choose from in Washington DC–everything from the many Smithsonian Museums, to quirky options like the International Spy Museum, to meaningful stops like the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, are available–far more than you can visit in a single weekend.

Those interested in US History and government will also have plenty to keep them busy along the National Mall, including iconic stops like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, and those looking to enjoy the city’s magnificent food scene will love taking a DC food tour .

Touring the US Capitol is always an interesting experience, and if you plan ahead, you may even be able to tour the White House!

While DC has plenty to offer year-round, there’s no doubt that cherry blossom season in Washington DC is one of the best (and most popular) times to visit.

As a bonus, many of the things to do in Washington DC , including all of the Smithsonian museums, are free to enter.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

• CitizenM Capitol : Another stunning example of CitizenM hotels is this location in Washington DC Capitol. Expect all the style and comfort these hotels are known for.
• Riggs Washington DC : Located in the former home of Riggs National Bank this iconic building is now home to a classic and beautiful hotel. Rooms are huge and comfortable and offer views of Penn Quarter.

The self-proclaimed live music capital of the world, the home of the world-famous SXSW festival, and a city full of classic American charm with a country flair: when you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in the USA, it would be a shame to leave off the gem that is Austin, TX.

I have lived in Austin as both a child and an adult, and when I wasn’t living there, returned at least 1-2 times a year for most of my life due to family living in the area–and I never, ever get tired of visiting to tuck into a plate a delicious breakfast tacos, general TexMex, or barbecue.

During your weekend trip to Austin , head down to South Congress for fabulous food, eclectic boutiques, and incredible street art, and “Dirty Sixth” for some unforgettable nightlife (or alternatively, Rainey Street or Guadalupe Street for a different vibe).

Of course, this is the capital of Texas, so save some time during your weekend trip to Austin for some more typical cultural highlights, like visiting the Texas State Capitol and the historic (and possibly haunted) Driskill Hotel.

Plus, as Austin is surrounded by the stunning Texas Hill Country, no trip there is complete without going for at least one hike in Austin and taking a day trip to beloved nearby towns and wineries– Wimberley and Fredericksburg are both favorites.

Where to Stay in Austin

• The Driskill: Originally built in 1886, The Driskill elegantly combines old-world charm with all of today’s modern luxuries. Dine at the award-winning on-site restaurant and enjoy the luxury of this iconic Austin landmark.
• Hotel Saint Cecilia: This hotel set in pretty gardens is a great oasis in the city. There is an onsite pool with private bungalows, perfect for relaxing.

Visiting Chicago means it’s time for pizza, pizza, and more pizza… and okay, probably some sightseeing as well.

The sprawling city of Chicago, set right up against beautiful Lake Michigan, is certainly worthy of being included on any list of the best weekend getaways in the USA–and there are definitely plenty of fun things to do in Chicago to keep you busy while you’re there, including plenty of opportunities to explore the culture, enjoy delicious food, and even get outside in Chicago .

Come to Chicago for the weekend to snap selfies at The Bean, test your fear of heights on the famous Chicago Skydeck, pay a visit to Navy Pier, and of course, to eat a lot of deep dish.

Art lovers will find plenty of museums to devour in Chicago, including the incredible Art Institute of Chicago, and baseball fans will enjoy seeing the Cubs play a game at the famous Wrigley Field. 

For animal lovers and family travelers, head directly to Shedd Aquarium (and for family travelers, make note of the American Girl Place as well–the highlight of my first visit to Chicago long, long ago!).

Where to Stay in Chicago

• Warwick Allerton: Situated on the Magnificent Mile in Downtown Chicago, the hotel is perfect for shopping and discovering iconic architecture.
• Staypineapple: This oddly named hotel was designed by a world renowned architect and features stylish details such as mosaic floors and marble ceilings. No detail is spared and rooms are a testament to the thought that has gone into each part of the hotel.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

18 thoughts on “15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA”

Safely, Detroit is not on your list. Detroit is a fabulous city and Michiganders are very friendly and likeable.

Austin is not the country music capital — it’s the live music capital.

Well isn’t that an embarrassing typo for someone who has owned a Keep Austin Weird shirt for 20 years! Lol. I’ll get it fixed.

Very interesting

Or Madison… both have their own unique quirks that can keep a weekend enjoyable

You forgot Richmond Virginia, which would probably run circles around half of these cities on your list.

Not even close Tony!

absolutely incorrect

Umm Philly????

Will go on the list when we expand it! We love Philly. 🙂

Boise is an awesome city in the west too!

Love what you do, just curious, how do you make ends meet?

Thanks, Priti!

We’re professional travel bloggers, so this website is our job.

We earn money through the display ads that you see while scrolling and sometimes get a commission (at no cost to you) if a reader books a tour/hotel/attraction through a link on our website. 🙂

How did Dallas not make the list

Cause it sucks.

Great ideas, thank you!

Personally, I absolutely loved San Antonio what a great little weekend get away!

We love it too–one of our former homes and one of our favorite places to eat in the country!

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For a shot of sea and sun, head for the golden sands of Southern California , or hit the white-hot party heat of Miami . Prefer the great outdoors? Book a cosy condo in the mountains of Montana or enjoy the bo-ho chic of Washington State . Maybe you want a bit of culture and history, so stay at a spa hotel in Washington, DC . The choice is yours!

Where should I go for the best weekend getaway?

For a weekend of bright lights in the big city, try the high life and head to Vegas . If you want something a little more sedate, book a weekend in Waikiki . Or, if you’ve got the whole family in tow, book a stay in San Diego or a vacation rental in Myrtle Beach .

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Where should I go on a girls’ trip?

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What are some excellent family weekend getaways?

If your family has a sense of adventure, head for Alabama and a mini-vacation that could include dolphin spotting, fishing, jet-skiing, and more. If you’re a brood of city slickers, take in the culture of Milwaukee , with exhibitions, museums, and sightseeing for all ages. Whatever family weekend getaway you’re looking for, we have it at Expedia.

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The Best Weekend Getaways in the U.S. for a Quick Escape

By Mark Ellwood

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Air travel has been tricky at best over the last couple of years, so many people have turned back to the classic American getaway: a road trip . It’s an ideal way to explore your own backyard on a whim for a memorable vacation, either this summer or later this year.

We took five of the country’s major hubs and found four weekend getaway ideas for each, all easily accessible detours. Read on for our picks for the best weekend getaways around the U.S., along with tips for where to stay and what to do while you're there

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

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

From Los Angeles

Catalina Island

Catalina Island, California

Take the one-hour journey to this island 22 miles or so off the coast via the Catalina Express ferry , which departs from San Pedro, Long Beach, or Dana Point daily; once you’re here, biking and walking are the main transport modes (or you can rent a golf cart for longer drives). Catalina Island is a startling contrast to the mainland, with more than a whiff of East Coast hideouts like Nantucket: Start at the quaint main town, Avalon, and gorge on seafood that’s barely minutes from the water—try Bluewater Grill , right on the dock.

Then head inland to El Rancho Escondido , which earned acclaim for its Arabian horse-breeding program. The ponies are gone now, though, and much of the land has been deeded over to vines, where Rusack Vineyards focuses on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel. Outdoorsy types can hike the entire length of the 38.5-mile Trans Catalina Trail in about four days, too, with campgrounds for overnighting along the route. The Bellanca Hotel in Avalon is the plushest perch if you’d rather have someone else make your bed—or sleep in a bed, period.

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

Around 50 percent of the locals in this Coachella Valley hub identify as LGBTQ+, adding appeal for any open-minded, easy-going visitor. The main drag of gay bars, along Arenas Road, is a rollicking night out for anyone—and just 90 mins from Los Angeles , as long as you avoid the peak times for the drive, like Friday evenings. Come here, too, to explore the design style which was popular when Palm Springs was in its heyday: Midcentury modernism is celebrated everywhere, from antique stores specializing in sleek Danish sofas to the soon-to-open Modernism Museum, which will include installations like a 1950s-era RV, plus a gift shop (of course). Dive deeper into the history of this style via a three-hour tour with architectural historian and author Michael Stern , which includes the chance to visit private homes. Among the countless hotels decked out in midcentury-modern stylings for an overnight, the Parker Palm Springs remains the standout—a riot of color and witty touches from designer Jonathan Adler.

Paso Robles

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

Paso Robles, California

Just 20 years ago, there were about 50 wineries in and around this charming small town just over three hours from LA; now there are more than 300, and the area’s becoming more widely known for its fine Pinot Noirs and Zinfandels. The self-guided tour run by the Paso Wine Country Alliance is the quickest way to zip between vineyards, but it’s worth hiring local guide Coy Barnes, aka the Wine Wrangler , to drive you for the day if you’re keen to quaff at every tasting room. Some rooms at the Paso Robles Inn have hot tubs on their balconies (a nod to the town’s origins as a spa center) that are fed by water piped in from nearby hot springs.

San Diego, California

Beaches and green spaces are the defining assets of San Diego , just under a two-hour drive south of LA. There’s the 1,750-acre Torrey Pines State Reserve —kayak through the wetlands for an up-close view—and a namesake golf course with two 18-hole championship courses perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific; stay at the Arts & Crafts-style Lodge at Torrey Pines , right by the 18 th green. San Diego has 75 miles of coastline, featuring plenty of noteworthy beaches , most of them studded with surfers—hit Moonlight State Beach if you want to head out on the water, rent fishing gear, or snap a shot with the iconic Hotel Del Coronado as a backdrop from Coronado Beach. And even if San Diego has 24/7 beach weather, don’t forget: This is the Christmas Capital of America .

From Chicago

Southwest Michigan

Saugatuck and its surroundings in Southwest Michigan have recently attracted newcomers due to a focus on the state’s extraordinary produce (Michigan is second only to California in agricultural diversity). Drive two and a half hours to eat at the delicious, diner-like Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions from chef Melissa Corey, or taste some of the estate-grown vintages at Modales Wines . Work off your meal with a bracing hike to the top of Mount Baldhead for spectacular views. You’ll find all that in this corner of Michigan, plus the perennial bonus of gleaming beaches, charming all-American coastal towns, and the best sundowner spots in the state overlooking the lush waters of Lake Michigan.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

It might be three hours north of the city, but a trip here is like stepping decades into the past for a miles-long strip of world-class water parks. The Dells emerged as a family-friendly destination in the 1950s and has changed little since then. The best-known fun fest is the Kalahari , a resort with Master Blaster uphill water coasters plus an outdoor lazy river; but purists vouch for nearby Noah’s Ark , which boasts the largest number of water slides in the area. There are outdoorsy options for an adrenaline-powered weekend, too, like the six-acre, zip-line-filled Chula Vista Resort park. Just save room for some cheese curds—the best come from Carr Valley.

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Just 90 minutes north of Chicago , this resort town is the Midwest’s answer to the Hamptons or Newport , made famous by the iconic families that helped build the Windy City (think Wrigley and Sears). The waterfront offers public access for more than 20 miles, thanks to an early treaty that ring-fenced the Shore Path from any development. Otherwise, expect ritzy Gilded Age mansions and over-the-top hotels like the magnificent Queen Anne-style Black Point Estate and Gardens , now a museum, or the turreted Baker House , ranked one of the town’s best hotels. Don’t assume it’s solely a warm-weather destination, though: Winterfest in January and February is a charming, less-trafficked option than midsummer.

Cave Point in Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

Much like Cape Cod curls into the Atlantic, this 75-mile peninsula juts into Lake Michigan like a raised finger, and it shares much with its New England counterpart. First emerging as an artsy summer colony, it has sandy, family-friendly beaches—more than 50 public ones—and 300 miles of shoreline. Come to Door County to amble around its galleries, or hike around the 14 miles of trails quilting its eastern tip in Whitefish Dunes. Make this a long weekend, as it’s almost a four-hour drive from Chicago, and don’t leave without making a pilgrimage to the Swedish restaurant Al Johnson’s , famous for the herd of goats grazing on its grassy roof.

From Washington, D.C.

Crystal Grottoes in Boonsboro

Boonsboro, Maryland

A little over an hour northwest of Washington, D.C. , Boonsboro combines natural wonders with a sobering role in American history. Explore the stalactite-crusted Crystal Grottoes here—the Fairyland cave’s red tinge is thanks to iron oxide—or go whitewater rafting and tubing in the waters near Harpers Ferry. Then squeeze in a trip to the site of Antietam, the bloodiest battle on U.S. soil where 23,000 Civil War soldiers were killed or wounded within just 12 hours of fighting in 1862. Planning a romantic weekend? Nowhere better to overnight than Inn Boonsboro , owned by novelist Nora Roberts, where each of the eight rooms is named after a fictional couple like The Princess Bride’s Westley and Buttercup.

Alexandria, Virginia

It might only be a 20-minute drive away—or shorter, if you hop on the metro—but this historic town still feels like a getaway and consistently ranks among the top five small cities in the country in our Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s easy to see why: Historic architecture and cobbled streets are a glimpse back past the American Revolution to European settlers’ earliest days. Board the replica 18th-century, 110-foot sloop Providence, a Pirates of the Caribbean prop now moored here as a museum, or head to the Del Ray neighborhood for an assortment of street art that shows the city isn’t simply resting on the past. Stay at the Alexandrian, an Autograph Collection hotel right in the center of Old Town that overlooks the river from National Harbor.

Bodie Island Light Station in Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

It’s a long drive—around six hours—Cape Hatteras is still one of the best weekend getaways from D.C., thanks to the astonishing views and bracing air of the Outer Banks . The 70-mile-long National Seashore here was the first in the country and is anchored by the landmark Bodie Island Light Station, the tallest lighthouse in the U.S. with more than 200 stairs. Head to the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum for a glimpse as to why these waters earned that nickname—more than 600 shipwrecks caused by treacherous, shifting shoals. Then again, with the right captain, you can brave those waters yourself on a fishing charter that can easily reach the Gulf Stream. The choice hotel is the charming Inn on Pamlico Sound ; wake up with its seaside view, and you’ll understand how worthwhile it is to splurge on a sound-front room.

Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Yes, it’s an eight-hour drive to reach this ridge, but the jaw-dropping scenery will make the effort more than worthwhile—and we’re not just talking about the sight of a statue of Dolly Parton as you reach the end, erected in her honor in the legend’s hometown of Sevierville.

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited in the NPS network (and free to enter, too). It spreads across 500,000 acres in the Appalachian Mountains, straddling two states; the easiest entry point from D.C. is the Sugarlands Visitor Center near Gatlinburg. Once you’re in the park, start walking: There are 800 miles of trails in total, including a portion of the official Appalachian Trail. You can also enjoy a guided tour on horseback operated from several stables dotted around the reserve; just make sure to call ahead and book . The peak times for visiting include leaf-peeping season, of course, plus early summer, when the flame azaleas are in bloom. This is a year-round park, though, with plenty to enjoy even in winter, when the views from high perches like Clingman’s Dome are particularly impressive. In season, you can camp at one of ten different grounds (reserve a spot here ) or book a room at one of the hotels in Gatlinburg, which effectively serves as a resort community adjacent to the park.

Cassadaga, Florida

The hub of Volusia County, just east of Orlando and around four hours from Miami , is Cassadaga—a town whose residents will likely know you’re coming. Homes here are occupied by psychics and folks who generally believe in life after death, reincarnation, and the power of the spirits. Come to the Spiritualist Camp and check out the list of mediums and healers taking bookings that day, working on everything from past life regression to aura photography. One standout is Louis Gates , who grew up here as the child of two psychics; ask him about his childhood, as he has intriguing stories about life in Cassadaga, as well as a sixth sense ($50 for a half-hour session). There’s also a hotel in town .

Combine a look into your future with a glimpse at Orlando’s past: The Downtown Orlando Historic District is full of grand old mansions that offer a glimpse of how things used to be. This self-guided walking tour will let you explore all the best landmarked properties at your own leisurely pace.

Dali Museum in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, Florida

Is there anywhere that captures the essence of Florida more completely than St. Pete? It’s relaxed, rimmed by gorgeous beaches on the Gulf of Mexico, and resolutely determined to let any visitors shuck off their worries within minutes of arriving. If you haven’t decompressed over the four-hour drive, make for Paradise Grille immediately, where you’ll find dinner, ice-cold drinks, and acoustic music. Spend the rest of the day at Honeymoon Island or Caldesi Island State Parks, two of the area’s best waterfront spots. There’s another side to the city, too: The Dalí Museum , a longtime anchor of the culture scene, was recently joined by the Imagine Museum, which showcases the studio glass movement of the 1960s.

Key West, Florida

The so-called Conch Republic has made its name as a kooky hideaway for America’s eccentrics—it even declared independence from the U.S. for a few days in 1982. It retains that offbeat, end-of-world appeal thanks to enduring sights like BO’s Fish Wagon, a bar on the waterfront that could be mistaken for a junkyard; but the last decade has seen a major upgrade in the accommodations on offer here. Try The Reach , the adult-aimed sister spot to the Waldorf Astoria located next door, which has its own private beach. Walk over to the Bahamian Village, with its ice cream-colored cigar makers’ cottages, and spend a lazy brunch (heck, the whole afternoon) al fresco at Blue Heaven , surrounded by its flock of resident chickens.

The Everglades

The Everglades, Florida

It takes barely an hour to hit the entrance of Everglades National Park from Miami, an almost 4 million-acre swampy prairie filled with rare crocodiles and dozens of remarkable birds. Skip the most popular route along the Tamiami Trail, and instead duck in just past Homestead at the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center entrance , which is the best way to reach Flamingo , the only settlement actually inside the park. From there, it’s a windy, 40-minute drive south to the tip of the Everglades. There are trails en route—Nine Mile Pond is a canoeing trail even newbies can manage—before you hit the 19th-century settlement, named after the pink birds that flock here (likely not actually flamingos, but  roseate spoonbills, though that’s not quite as snappy a placename).

Take boat tours of the backcountry from the marina in Flamingo, or book a houseboat to get some sleep and keep exploring the next morning. Just remember to wear long pants and pack industrial-strength bug spray in abundance—the mosquitoes can be a menace here, year-round.

From Dallas

Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Oklahoma

Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma

​​Drive just two and a half hours and cross state lines to explore one of the most noteworthy Native American areas in the U.S. It was here, in South Central Oklahoma, that the Chickasaw Tribe relocated after being forcibly driven from their ancestral lands near the Lower Mississippi in the 1830s. In the almost 200 years since, they’ve established a new homeland in Chickasaw Country, including an impressive center to learn about their culture, where there are artifacts, stomp dance performances, and a historically accurate recreation of a village from the 1700s.

Stay at the Chickasaw-operated Artesian Hotel , with views out across the countryside, and be sure to pack your hiking boots. The Chickasaw National Recreation Area is Oklahoma’s oldest national park area, with plenty of activities for travelers: It has plenty of short and easy trails like Bison Pasture and Veterans Lake, as well as superb fishing in the manmade Lake of the Arbuckles, with catfish, perch, and bass in abundance.

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg and wine country, Texas

Fredericksburg is the best base for exploring Texas wine country , just over a four-hour drive from Dallas . A 14,000-square-mile stretch with more than 30 wineries, it’s the second largest wine region in America after Napa. Bending Branch, south of town, is known for its vintages of Tannat, a grape that thrives in the hot, dry climate. Don’t miss the chance to stroll around the charming, historic downtown founded in the 1840s by a Prussian baron—stay at the Hoffmann Haus , a German-inflected B&B, to feel the history.

Round Top, Texas

If whimsy were a place, it would be this offbeat town three hours south of Dallas . It becomes an antiquing hub each spring, luring 200,000 or more shoppers to browse the bric-a-brac, but there’s also superb shopping year-round at stores like the 1920s-era farmhouse Townsend Provisions . Hotel Rancho Pillow is the mascot for Round Top, a riot of bohemian color where owner Sheila Youngblood rents an eclectic assortment of accommodations on her 20-acre homestead. Ask about the sheet-rocked teepee, and try riding the mechanical bull if you dare.

Palo Duro, Texas

This, the second largest canyon in America after the Grand Canyon , is a suitably epic Panhandle destination about a six-hour drive from Dallas. It’s worth every minute on the road once you’re standing by the 120-mile gash in the earth that plunges almost 1,000 feet. Come to hike, bike, and ride horses; there are almost 90 miles of trails in the state park, with the most popular runs located along the floor of the canyon. Offset the exertion by hunkering down at one of the chic cabins at Dove’s Rest , with a superb view out across the canyon proper. Each cabin has a propane grill and fire pit so you can BBQ each night under the stars.

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How to spend a perfect weekend in Moscow

Feb 11, 2020 • 5 min read

Moscow enjoyed the status of capital for most of Russia’s history, except for a relatively brief period (about two hundred years), when the Tsar and the government relocated to St Petersburg . But the Bolsheviks moved the capital back to Moscow in 1918, and today it’s an extremely diverse city. It can easily take a couple of weeks to see all of its sights, but if you've only got a weekend to explore, here's how to have two perfect days in Moscow.

Start your weekend in Moscow by acquainting yourself with top-notch Russian cuisine at Grand Cafe Dr Zhivago . Located on the first floor of the historical hotel National and overlooking the Kremlin, it’s definitely one of the best breakfast spots in the city. Try millet porridge with crawfish, pearl barley porridge with oxtail or traditional cottage cheese with raisins and candied fruit.

Set aside at least half a day for Russian capital’s major attractions: the Red Square and the Kremlin . To reach the Kremlin, cross the street from Dr Zhivago and walk through the Alexander Garden to the main entrance at the Kutafya Tower . Check out all the cathedrals, including Archangel cathedral with all the tsars’ tombs and Uspensky cathedral with medieval icons. Pause to look at the famous Tsar Bell and climb Ivan the Great Bell Tower to enjoy some great views.

Exit and walk to the Red Square through the Alexander Garden, where, if lucky, you can see the change of guard. If you’re feeling hungry, stop by the food court at Okhotny Ryad shopping complex to pick up a snack.

The Red square is dominated by four buildings of equal historical importance: the Kremlin's most famous Spasskaya (Saviour) Tower , with a clock and fourteen bells that chime national anthem four times a day (6am, noon, 6pm, midnight), St Basil's Cathedral , Moscow's best-known symbol with its multi-colored domes, Lenin’s Mausoleum , the resting place of the leader of the 1917 October revolution, and GUM , Moscow's oldest department store, topped with a glass roof, designed by one of Russia's most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov. 

A guide to shopping in Moscow

Right behind the St Basil’s it is the relatively new Zaryadye Park , designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, famous for its work on the High Line in New York City. Zaryadye showcases flora from all the climate zones of Russia, which is the largest country in the world. The floating bridge at the edge of the park is one of the biggest selfie magnets in Moscow, providing spectacular views of the river and the city skyline as the background. 

Another Zaryadye attraction is a glass pavilion that hosts restaurant Voskhod  (Sunrise) – a perfect spot for your lunch or early dinner. Voskhod focuses on dishes from all fifteen former Soviet Union republics and its inside looks like a Soviet-made spaceship with great views of the Moscow river. Try Azeri home-made pasta or trout from Lake Sevan in Armenia.

After all that walking and exploring you need some quality downtime and what better way to spend it than relaxing for a couple of hours at the famous Sanduny  traditional Russian hot bath. Make sure to get a massage with birch sticks!

You might still have time to go to Winzavod Center – a creative cluster with galleries housed at a former wine factory. Galleries like XL , pop/off/art and Ovcharenko always have something on, most likely a cutting-edge Russian contemporary art exhibition. Finish the evening hanging out at one of the best Moscow bars – try socialites’ paradise Noor Electro , co-joined with one of Moscow’s avant-garde theatres or Powerhouse Moscow , located in a 19th-century mansion, which is famous for live indie and jazz band performances. Both serve great food, too. 

Power up for a busy day ahead at one of Moscow’s trendiest coffee/breakfast spots,   Nude . Located in the upscale, well-heeled neighborhood of Patriarch’s Ponds, Nude offers a wide range of breakfast dishes, including scrambled eggs, toast, porridge and banana bread. Book ahead as it might be busy on a weekend morning.

After checking out the Patriarch's Ponds, which features prominently in Mikhail Bulgakov’s perennial novel The Master and Margarita , devote the rest of the morning and early afternoon to exploring Moscow’s best museums. Depending on your tastes, pick one of the following: Tretyakov Gallery for traditional Russian art, from medieval icons to the early 20th century;  New Tretyakov for 20th century and contemporary art as well as great temporary exhibitions;  Pushkin Museum for one of the greatest collections of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art in the world; and the Garage Museum for some eye-opening modern-art exhibitions. 

Whichever museum or gallery you choose, be sure to go to LavkaLavka for lunch, certainly one of the best places to try new Russian cuisine, which is a contemporary reading of centuries-old recipes. It’s one of the few places to try polugar , which is, allegedly, what Russians called vodka in the 19th century. 

When you talk about Russian culture, literary giants usually pop into mind: the likes of Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky and Anton Chekhov. There are plenty of literary museums in Moscow, but if you had to pick one, visit Tolstoy Estate Museum , located just opposite the headquarters of Yandex, the Russian equivalent of Google. Every little detail has been restored just the way it looked when Tolstoy lived here in the 1880s–90s. 

Leave some time for exploring the Moscow Metro : every station is an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Our favorites include Mayakovskaya, Komsomolskaya and Kievskaya. Later, unwind at one of dozens of Moscow’s craft beer places . Try  Jawsspot , named after one of the leading breweries in Russia, Jaws from the Urals region, which also serves decent pizza and salads.  

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• 1 Asheville, North Carolina
• 2 Seattle, Washington
• 3 Miami Beach, Florida
• 4 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• 5 Austin, Texas
• 6 Chicago, Illinois
• 7 Boulder, Colorado
• 8 New Orleans, Louisiana
• 9 Savannah, Georgia
• 10 San Diego, California
• 11 Portland, Oregon
• 12 Palm Springs, California
• 13 Shelter Island, New York

America’s Best Long Weekend Getaways

Of course you want months off for vacation. Who doesn’t? But sometimes the best we can do is a restorative (or raucous) two-night weekend trip to somewhere fantastic. Here, the highlights from 13 of our favorite quick trips.

See recent posts by Kathryn O'Shea-Evans

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Asheville, North Carolina

For a low-key romantic weekend away, the art-centric mountain town of Asheville won’t do you wrong. Perhaps the crowning jewel of the trendy yet traditional city, the Biltmore Estate simply isn’t to be missed. The 250-room Gilded Age chateau sits on 8,000 acres of highly-curated gardens and meadow (all designed by the very guy behind NYC’s Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted) with the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as a super casual backdrop. Peeling yourself away from the largest mansion in the U.S., you’ll get your night’s sleep at The Windsor Boutique Hotel , a homey 14-suite rustic stay right in the heart of downtown. End your mini-retreat with brunch at Cúrate , a buzzy tapas-inspired restaurant with crowd pleasers like honey-drizzled fried eggplant and traditional tortilla española.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Asheville, NC hotels

Seattle, Washington

Kimpton Hotels know how to turn on the quirk, and the historic Palladian is no exception. Guest rooms at the Belltown spot work screenprinted Mr. T and David Bowie pillows, vintage maps, and smart brass fixtures into an otherwise classic mix. Two blocks away, you’ll find the famous Pike Place Market , your go-to place for quick bites, while luxe sit-down meals are best at The Butcher’s Table , which delivers with a raw bar, inventive sides, and every cut of steak known to man. To walk it all off, head for exhibits at Chihuly Garden and Glass , an IG goldmine dripping in galleries of vibrant glass sculptures—the center of which is a suspended red, yellow, and amber floral piece that lives in the Glasshouse.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Seattle, WA hotels

Miami Beach, Florida

Bed down at the ultra-quirky Freehand Miami for a stay packed with vintage travel ephemera, mod furniture (making use of a ROYGBIV palette), and a social courtyard with a pool, bocce, yoga, and art classes. Dinner is to be had at Byblos , a design-savvy, family-style Eastern Mediterranean joint that serves up duck kibbeh, Persian fried chicken, and fattouche, in an impossibly bright (and chic) dining room. Art is all around in the Magic City, and to see the best of it, you don’t need a ticket or a proper tour—simply take yourself on a self-guided walk around Ocean Drive’s Art Deco and Art Nouveau buildings, making sure to stop for photos at favorites like Hotel Breakwater South Beach , the Leslie Hotel , the Essex House Hotel , and The Tides South Beach .

RELATED: Save BIG with these incredible deals on Florida hotels going on right now >>>

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Miami Beach, FL hotels

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The boutique Palomar Philadelphia deftly spins an eccentric take on a classic American design scheme with neon presidential portraits, rainbow-hued busts, and plush velvet seating. Take an hour or so to hit Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens , a museum, outdoor art installation, and indoor gallery from mosaic artist Isaiah Zagar, which takes up half a block on the once-dilapidated (and now handsomely revitalized) South Street. Or swing by the Barnes Foundation  to see a stunning display of French impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. For some Philly history that isn’t the Liberty Bell, you can check out Eastern State Penitentiary —a massive, fortified prison that once held Al Capone—on an audio-guided tour narrated by the one and only Steve Buscemi. Afterwards, skip the over-hyped cheesesteaks at dueling shops Geno’s and Pat’s , and head instead for the Reading Terminal Market , where you can nom on pad thai, oyster sliders, and sweet dessert crepes all under one roof.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Philadelphia, PA hotels

Austin, Texas

A weekend is all you need to see the very best of Texas’s coolest city. Kick it off with a locals-only brunch at Elizabeth St. Cafe , a chic French-Vietnamese boulangerie where coconut water and preserved tangerine margaritas are served in Chinese takeout containers. Newer spots on our radar include the Southern-inspired Colleens Kitchen, Pool Burger (we love the Blue Hawaiian, topped with grilled pineapple slices, bacon, crumbled blue cheese, and Thousand Island dressing), and Aviary Wine & Kitchen. For some retail therapy, head to South Congress for an afternoon at the boutiques; United Apparel Liquidators is the place for designer couture (Balenciaga, Rag & Bone, Givenchy, to name a few) at bargain basement discounts. Don’t leave the city without going for a dip at Barton Springs Pool , the aquifer-fed swimming hole of choice where a young Robert Redford learned how to swim.

RELATED: How to Plan the Ultimate Girls’ Weekend Getaway in Austin

Chicago, Illinois

You can’t go to Chi-town without stopping by the Art Institute of Chicago . We’d say the same about leafy Garfield Park Conservatory , built on nearly five acres in 1906 and often referred to as “landscape art under glass;” the Chicago architecture river cruise ; and, of course, Wrigley Field . (Yes, all of these are touristy, but so worth it.) You could spend an entire weekend eating your way through this city. Some of our favorite spots to hit up now include the Michelin-starred brewpub, Band of Bohemia; the wildly popular Korean-American restaurant, Parachute (book early!); and the British-inspired Owen and Engine , which serves one of the finest burgers in town. As for where to stay, we’re digging Hotel Zachary , with its stunning grand staircase and knockout views of Wrigley Field from almost every room.

Boulder, Colorado

Just north of Denver, an outdoorsy paradise where locals are tanned, toned, and likely just back from a trail run awaits. Catch up with the best of them on the one-mile First Flatiron trail , which winds through Boulder’s iconic sandstone slab rock formations. Break for afternoon tea in an intricately carved wooden teahouse at Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse originally made in Tajikistan—it’s a highbrow prelude to an afternoon tour of Avery Brewing , home to the hoppy India Pale Ale. After a couple of brews, head back to your hotel (there’s the funky, low-key Basecamp and more upscale St. Julien Hotel and Spa ) for a quick nap before dinner at the ever-popular northeastern Italian-inspired restaurant Frasca Food and Wine run by Chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson.

New Orleans, Louisiana

In the land of beignets, po’ boys and kicked-up cajun cuisine, a weekend in NOLA is all about EATING. Start the gluttony with the classic creole-inspired brunch (and 25 cent martinis!) at Commander’s Palace —the wild Louisiana white shrimp stuffed with spicy tasso ham, Crystal hot sauce, pickled okra, and pepper jelly is a must. And we can’t leave out classics like Cafe Du Monde’s famous deep-fried pastry, Bon Ton Cafe’s jambalaya, and Bevi Seafood Co.’s peacemaker po’ boy full of fried shrimp, swiss cheese, and roast beef gravy with a side of seafood gumbo. Newcomers worth checking out include Josephine Estelle , the Italian osteria at the Ace Hotel . Alternatively, skip all of that and go from breakfast to lunch to dinner at the Roch Market food hall. You’ll want to pack those fat pants.

Explore More: See hotel details | See all New Orleans, LA hotels

Savannah, Georgia

Warning: A trip to Savannah is highly caloric. But if you don’t indulge, you’re not doing it right. The line runs down the block for Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room , for very good reason: the fried chicken, candied yams, and macaroni and cheese are so good, you’ll want to get in line all over again for dinner. Explore the city’s art scene at the various galleries around City Market on your own or sign up for a tour on the second Saturday of every month. History buffs can learn about Savannah’s past at the 1868 Mercer Williams House , the former home of Jim Williams and the site of the killing of Danny Hansford in May of 1981 (remember, Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil?). It’s also worth checking out the iconic Bonaventure Cemetery , dripping in Spanish moss and rumored to be full of ghosts—you can shake off the heebie-jeebies with a jalapeño margarita at the 18th century Olde Pink House .

RELATED:   8 Can’t-Miss Things to Do in Savannah

San Diego, California

Of course, you’ll want to hit the beach in San Diego. La Jolla Cove is our personal favorite, with verdant grass that leads to craggy cliffs, but there’s so much more to do in this SoCal city. Wander the 15 (!) museums at the 1,200-acre Balboa Park , hike to the lagoon at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve , and feast on some of the best Mexican food north of the border at Lucha Libre Gourmet Taco Shop (we love the steak, shrimp, avocado and chipotle taco).

Portland, Oregon

Portland has a reputation for being the Brooklyn of the West—which isn’t entirely unfounded, given its profusion of microbrews and macro-beards. Your first stop: Ned Ludd , where almost everything on the menu (local rabbit and roasted radishes, or chocolate chip cookies in a cast iron pan, for example) is cooked on a wood fire. Hike through the rainforest to feel the spray of the 627-foot waterfall at Multnomah Falls , just half an hour from downtown Portland. Leave time for a trip to peruse the two million-some volume at Powell’s City of Books , a local favorite on Burnside St.

Palm Springs, California

Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elizabeth Taylor — a who’s who of showbiz has long found solace in Palm Springs. Today this desert oasis is the perfect mix of modern and kitschy which attracts a hip L.A. crowd. Spend an afternoon wandering the Uptown Design District, where eye-catching boutiques (we love the Midcentury housewares at Christopher Anthony ) are joined by retro-chic restaurants and bars. Bootlegger Tiki , Palm Canyon Drive’s mixology-centered newcomer, has a 12–2 a.m. happy hour, kitschy luau-themed décor, and hangover-worthy cocktails (we love the cheekily-named Mango Unchained.) If live music is what you seek, check out Melvyn’s , the storied supper club-style hangout once frequented by Ol’ Blue Eyes himself.

RELATED: The Coolest Things to Do in Palm Springs

Shelter Island, New York

The 12-square-mile atoll sits between the tony North Fork and the Hamptons but feels a hushed world away (more than a third of the area is fiercely protected by the Nature Conservancy). Here, it’s all about unwinding, from the golden-sand beaches and hiking paths to farm fresh produce and sunset cocktails. The island’s newest place to bed down is Chequit Inn , with 37 shabby-chic rooms, C.O. Bigelow toiletries, and complimentary breakfast. For dinner, don’t miss the Montauk pearl oysters and lobster pot pie at Vine Street Café (or pick up goodies to go at the food market out back).

Explore More: See hotel details | See all Shelter Island, NY hotels

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A picture perfect poolside at W South Beach. (Photo: Marriott International)

Beach Escapes and City Breaks: 10 Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in the U.S.

Whether for a city adventure or a beach escape, finding a great hotel is the key to making the most of a weekend getaway. These hotels around the U.S. provide all the comforts and convenience you crave, plus that extra something to make your experience even more memorable. 

As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip. 

W South Beach in Miami Beach, Florida  

A stay at W South Beach offers a luxe headquarters amid buzzy Miami Beach . The oceanfront property provides all the resort amenities, like guest rooms with private balconies and water views and direct beach access. The rooftop playground, which includes the WET Deck lounge and pool and basketball and tennis courts, is a true standout.

Spend your days and nights basking in South Beach’s legendary scene, and then return for dinner at Mr. Chow and cocktails and live music at The Living Room Bar . 

EMC2 Hotel Chicago, Autograph Collection in Chicago, Illinois  

The future is very much here at EMC2 Hotel Chicago, Autograph Collection , where “twin” robots Leo and Cleo roam the halls delivering cookies and milk and other room service orders. It’s a fitting touch, since the hotel pays homage to Nobel Prize–winning scientist Albert Einstein with innovative amenities like in-room tablets and mattresses with cooling technology.

The hotel’s North Side location in Streeterville gives direct access to Chicago highlights like the Field Museum of Natural History, Art Institute of Chicago and the theater district, as well as Magnificent Mile shopping and restaurants.

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in Marco Island, Florida  

With an expansive stretch of private beach, the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort and its beautiful surroundings are perfection for a weekend away. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, you won’t run out of things to do at this dazzling resort. Choose from among a dozen dining experiences, take a dip in the outdoor pool and whirlpool, play at one of two championship golf courses and indulge in a spa treatment — there’s something to suit every kind of traveler.

Not traveling with kids? Guests who are 21-plus can opt for the resort’s Paradise By Sirene , which features its own adults-only rooftop pool and dedicated dining area. 

Austin Marriott Downtown in Austin, Texas  

To dip your toe in Austin’s storied nightlife scene, you just need to head to the seventh floor of the Austin Marriott Downtown for a Tiki cocktail at Zanzibar, a jungle-themed rooftop bar with commanding views of the Colorado River. You can also maximize your time off by taking a dip in the rooftop pool and relaxing at the two lobby bars, The Lobbyist and Rye Bar.

Refuel during your Austin weekend with to-go coffee and snacks from Loaf + Vine and simple yet elegant dishes at Corinne restaurant . Marriott Bonvoy Elite members can hang out in the M Club Lounge with complimentary breakfast, all-day snacks and evening hors d’oeuvres. 

From the hotel, it’s a quick trip to sample the Texas capital’s renowned music scene , scenic Lady Bird Lake and acclaimed restaurants .

Bellyard, West Midtown Atlanta, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel in Atlanta, Georgia  

It wasn’t so long ago that Atlanta’s West Midtown neighborhood was the location of the city’s stockyards and railway. Today, these former industrial sites have been repurposed and now house hip boutiques, restaurants and bars, and loft-style apartments.

Occupying a central spot in this trendy neighborhood is the Bellyard, West Midtown Atlanta, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel , with a modern lounge and bar, as well as an outpost of popular local café St. Germain French Bakery to help you recharge. 

Element Philadelphia Downtown in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

With the Element Philadelphia Downtown as your weekend base, you can easily connect with the City of Brotherly Love’s rich cultural offerings on the Avenue of the Arts, historic sites like Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, pro sports stadiums and buzzworthy restaurant scene.

At the hotel, fuel up with a complimentary breakfast, pack lunch in your tricked-out kitchen and then grab one of the hotel’s “Bikes to Borrow” to check out the city.

Plus, you can bring along the family dog, as pets are most welcome at Element Philadelphia Downtown. 

AC Hotel by Marriott Washington DC Downtown in Washington, D.C.  

The sleek AC Hotel Washington DC Downtown fits right in with the international vibes of this capital city . The modern, European-influenced design of the hotel includes touches like a lobby light installation by the German studio Lichtpapier. Not only is it the perfect place to relax, it’s also a fantastic launching pad for a weekend exploring the city . 

The prime location means you’re within an easy stroll of the White House, Dupont Circle restaurants and shopping, and George Washington University, and you can access Capitol Hill, Adams Morgan and other neighborhoods from two nearby Metro stops. 

Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa in Coronado, California  

A weekend at Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa offers one of those “best of both worlds” situations: a resort setting with immediate access to a lively city.

The resort is adjacent to San Diego and boasts three pools, eight pickleball courts, a wellness center and day spa, a restaurant, and a bar. Guest rooms have amenities like oversized bathtubs, sofa beds and balconies, or you can opt for a cottage with a living room, dining area and kitchenette — and you’ll be set for a memorable weekend.

Coronado Island Marriott Resort & Spa sits along the San Diego Bay, which means it’s just minutes from the San Diego Zoo and other attractions in Balboa Park — not to mention the shops, restaurants and nightlife of the dynamic Gaslamp Quarter. 

Boston Marriott Long Wharf in Boston, Massachusetts  

When you plan a weekend stay at the Boston Marriott Long Wharf , it’s all about the water. You can arrive by water taxi directly from Logan Airport and stay in a room with views of Boston Harbor and its iconic sailboats, take a dip in the heated indoor pool, or just chill on the pool deck.

When you’re ready to venture out into city , the New England Aquarium is literally next door, and a short stroll through the Rose Kennedy Greenway will take you to Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, the Freedom Trail and other Beantown landmarks. 

The Westin Bellevue in Bellevue, Washington  

Looking for Pacific Northwest views of Lake Washington paired with big-city amenities? The Westin Bellevue connects via covered skybridge to a shopping, dining and entertainment complex. It also offers its own Cypress Lounge & Wine Bar , with an indoor fireplace and outdoor patio.

You can also book a treatment at Truce Spa or bask in a soothing Westin Heavenly Bath in your room. Meanwhile, the city of Bellevue neighbors Seattle , so Pike Place Market and Seattle’s eclectic dining and arts scene are less than 30 minutes away by car. 

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25 Best Weekend Getaways in The USA (2024)

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Published On: April 6, 2024

Are you ready to have the weekend of a lifetime in the USA? There are so many weekend trip options, whether you’re looking for city breaks in iconic cities like San Francisco and New York City or adventurous retreats to national parks.

Weekend getaways in the USA can be city-focused, with art galleries and landmark sightseeing – who fancies a view from the Empire State Building? Alternatively, you could head rural to somewhere like Glacier National Park for hiking trails and natural beauty.

You could easily spend a lifetime traveling the USA in immense detail. But, equally, the country has some places ideally suited to short stays.

Best Weekend Getaway in the USA

In this guide, we’ll match you with your absolute dream weekend getaway destination. The USA is huge; we’ve had to be brutal to whittle it down to our top 25 recommended weekend trips. Let’s look at what the USA has to offer all those short-stayers amongst you.

The East Coast is a brilliant place for city breaks and beaches in the USA. It’s where you’ll find New York City and Miami with its glorious beaches and surf culture. The southeast is most known for its hot weather and beach culture. At the same time, the northeast is more historical, with cities like Washington DC and the Salem witch history near Boston.

If you choose the USA’s East Coast for your next weekend trip, prepare yourself for city breaks galore.

1. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is a great place to immerse yourself in academia and educational sightseeing. As Massachusetts’s capital, Boston has some of the state’s  best attractions , including Harvard University, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Science. However, Boston also has its own story to offer. You can tour the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum and walk the hallowed Freedom Trail to learn more about the city’s Civil War history. When you only have a weekend, it’s helpful to have a destination with a clear theme and specialty, like Boston’s academia and Tea Party history.

Boston is incredible as a weekend getaway. It even has the nickname ‘The Walking City’ because it’s so well-suited to exploring on foot. If you want a city break on the East Coast, Boston is a fabulous choice for a short but sweet historical insight into US history.

• Where to Stay: The Newbury Boston.
• Insider Tip: If you can, a day trip to the Salem Witch Museum for darker history when visiting Boston.

2. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is another hotspot for history buffs. This historic South Carolina city was founded in 1670, and it has preserved beautiful cobblestone streets and antebellum houses that make visiting feel like stepping inside a time capsule. It’s great for those who want a more immersive history, providing a real snapshot of original architecture.

The French Quarter and Battery Districts are non-negotiable neighborhoods to visit for the typical Charleston aesthetic. If you want more Civil Rights and tragic slavery history, visit the Aiken-Rhett House Museum and the Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon. Joe Riley Waterfront Park is also beautiful for a light-hearted stroll with views over Charleston Harbor and is within easy walking distance of the city center.

Charleston is walkable and heavy on its immersive history, making it one of the best weekend getaways in the USA. Everything is well-preserved, and you’ll learn so much, even in a short weekend break, so we had to add it to this guide.

• Where to Stay: Market Pavilion Hotel .
• Insider Tip: Head to Charleston City Market for souvenir shopping. It has more than 300 vendors daily.

3. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah has similar antebellum architecture and a time capsule feel – even home to horse-drawn carriages around its central Historic District. You’ve got quaint shops, sleepy oak trees, and cobbled squares. You can walk Savannah’s waterfront along the Savannah River, visit the American Prohibition Museum, and take guided tours of the Italianate Mercer Williams House Museum. When it comes to weekend getaways in the USA, Savannah is a beautiful choice and very aesthetic.

However, Savannah comes into its own with haunted stories and runs  regular ghost tours  of the cemeteries and Historic District. It’s especially famous for Bonaventure Cemetery and Colonial Park Cemetery, attracting thrill-seeking tourists looking for after-hours spooky tours.

Savannah is compact enough to explore on a weekend. It has a beautiful atmosphere and stunning architecture. It also has a fun haunted quality, which is great for maximizing your evening entertainment—if you feel brave enough.

• Where to Stay: Bellwether House.
• Insider Tip: Book a haunted Savannah pub crawl if you want to mix ghost hunting with partying.

4. Washington DC

Washington, DC, is a big deal when it comes to weekend trips on the East Coast. It’s the alpha and omega of all US history and the capital of the country, home to significant landmarks like Capitol Hill and the White House. Washington, DC, is an ideal weekend getaway if you are interested in politics or political history.

There are many  things to do , including visiting the National Mall, touring the White House, and sightseeing the various Smithsonian museums. From March to April, Washington DC is best known for gorgeous cherry blossoms all around the Tidal Basin, with over 3,000 cherry blossom trees in bloom.

Washington, DC, is a city center just made to walk around. Every inch of its parks has historical and geopolitical nods, whether the Japanese gift of the cherry blossoms or the Lincoln Memorial.

• Where to Stay: Hotel Madera.
• Insider Tip: Pack some sturdy footwear because Washington, DC, is best seen on foot.

5. Miami, Florida

Miami is a classic addition to these best weekend getaways in the USA. Sunny South Beach is an easy sell, with its art deco beach architecture and flamboyant culture. Miami is known for its  beach living  and great year-round weather. It’s where to head if you want culture, partying, and a relaxing beach break all rolled into one.

Visit the city’s art museums, including the Perez Art Museum and all the art galleries around South Beach. However, if you only have a weekend, Miami is the perfect time to sunbathe, play beach volleyball, or snap pictures of art deco beach buildings.

Miami is laidback and artistic, but it mostly has stunning beaches and iconic city status. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend trip.

• Where to Stay: We’ve got a full guide on where to stay in Miami here .
• Insider Tip: If you can, add an extra day to your trip so you can squeeze in a day trip to the Florida Keys or Everglades.

6. New York City, New York

New York City needs little introduction and is clearly one of the best weekend getaways in the USA. You can climb the Empire State Building, visit a national museum or two, walk Central Park, or take the Staten Island ferry past the Statue of Liberty. The whole city is rammed with activities from sunrise to sunrise – hence its affectionate nickname of the ‘city that never sleeps’. Throughout the day, you have thousands of observation platforms in iconic towers, museums, and unique attractions like the 9/11 Museum and Memorial. After hours, you have things like Broadway shows and cocktail bars.

The only thing we’d say about New York City is to choose your location wisely to maximize sightseeing time and to head there with a game plan. If you only visit for two days, you’ll need to be pretty savage with your itinerary. Here’s our  perfect one-day itinerary  if you need any inspiration.

• Where to Stay: Here’s our take on where to stay in NYC .
• Insider Tip: Be savvy when it comes to your accommodation location; saving yourself travel time is vital.

The West Coast has a serious reputation for sunshine and surfing, thanks to beautiful California stretching along most of the western coastline. You’ve got major cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles, connected by the dreamy road trip stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway. You’ve also got Seattle, right by the Canadian border, and its mysteriously overcast Olympic National Park and La Push beaches.

By sticking to the coastline, you can choose from iconic cities and plenty of national parks. The West Coast really comes into its own with redwoods and temperate rainforests. But equally, you can go sightseeing in the action-packed Los Angeles or San Francisco.

7. Redwood National and State Parks, California

Redwood National and State Parks are nothing short of magical. Where better place to go for a memorable weekend trip than the home of the tallest trees in the world? You can take scenic drives, go hiking, or even just spend a lazy afternoon fishing amongst the natural giants.

The national park is in California, next to the Oregon border. You can hike the stunning Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, walk through tunnels cut out of fallen trees in Tall Trees Grove, and visit Big Tree Wayside to snap a picture next to the 1,500-year-old redwood tree that tops 300 feet tall and 68 feet wide.

For anyone wanting the great outdoors with oomph, Redwood National and State Parks offer novelty and natural beauty all in one. And with a weekend, you have more than enough time to embrace most of its trails.

• Where to Stay: Orick Getaway.
• Insider Tip: Camp in the park for extra adventure and to maximize sightseeing time.

8. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is the cool dude of the Pacific Northwest, laid back comfortably on Puget Sound with diverse neighborhoods and a killer coffee culture. It’s where you’ll find the Microsoft and Amazon headquarters. However, it is also just a short day trip distance from the stunning Olympic National Park and all its outdoor activities.

To balance natural wonders with some of the leading technology and futuristic architecture, Seattle is one of the best weekend getaways in the USA. You can dedicate one day to climbing the Space Needle, grabbing tasty food from Pike Place Market, and hiking through the Hall of Mosses in Olympic National Park.

• Where to Stay: Check out our full guide on Where to Stay in Seattle.
• Insider Tip: If you can extend a day then it’s worth doing; you’ll be able to stay overnight in Olympic National Park and make it a more leisurely experience rather than an ambitious day trip.

9. San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a top spot for a long weekend. You’ve got  iconic sights to see , like the Golden Gate Bridge, and historic sites like Alcatraz Island. The whole city is full of quirky corners, like curvy Lombard Street and the yellow cable cars. Visiting San Francisco is like stepping into a movie scene; you’ll recognize tons of scenery.

The San Francisco piers are lined with seafood restaurants, and you can catch sight of adorable sea lions at Fisherman’s Wharf. You can also take a wine-tasting tour to the  gorgeous Napa Valley.  San Fran’s as good for cuisine and foodies as it is for sightseers.

People throw the phrase ‘melting pot’ around, but San Francisco really deserves it. It packs so much variety and quirky individual attractions into a single city, making it a fascinating city break.

• Where to Stay: Here’s our take on where to stay in San Fran .
• Insider Tip: Make sure to visit Muir Woods National Monument, which is like a small-scale version of Redwood National Park.

10. Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles is another fantastic city break that doesn’t require much introduction. You’ve got the heights of Hollywood – where you can tour Calabasas to spot celeb mansions, walk the Hall of Fame, and even see celebs at rest in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Los Angeles has some  cool things to do.  It’s a city of fast-paced living and celeb culture.

In two days, you can easily see the celeb side of Los Angeles and the city’s beachside in its Santa Monica outskirts. LA is easily one of the best quick getaways simply because of how well-connected it is. You can get flights here from all over the world, and once you arrive, you have tour choices galore.

• Where to Stay: Here’s where you should stay in LA , plus a link to HI Los Angeles hostel in Santa Monica if you fancy a more sociable, down-to-earth experience.
• Insider Tip: Don’t miss out on the Surfing Walk of Fame just south of LA in Huntington Beach.

11. San Diego, California

San Diego is our West Coast choice for constant sunshine and warm weather. If you want somewhere hot with beach culture, it’s one of the leading weekend getaways in the USA. This overlooked city has a ton to offer for a weekend of sun and sand – just check out its  best beaches , and you’ll see what we mean. You could relax on Breakers Beach, Silver Strand State Beach, or Mission Beach Park.

Aside from beach culture, San Diego also has Balboa Park, which is full of museums and attractions. There’s also maritime history galore at the USS Midway Museum and Maritime Museum of San Diego. San Diego is the perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxing on the beach. For those wanting to explore new areas of California, it’s perfect.

• Where to Stay: Staypineapple Hotel Z.
• Insider Tip: If you fancy a bit of luxury, book a guided tour to Temecula to go wine tasting in Southern Cali.

The North of the USA hugs the Canadian border. It contains some of the most gorgeous, remote areas of natural beauty. Inland Washington, Montana, Wyoming, and North and South Dakota are perfect for spending time outdoors.

It isn’t all nature, though; Lake Michigan is a magnet for major cities, including Chicago, with its mouth-watering cuisine. Detroit is another city break option, and you can even go on a day trip to Niagara Falls from there if you’d like. Northern USA has lots to offer. Here are the best weekend getaways in the region.

12. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park is a fantastic weekend trip for lovers of the great outdoors. Just check out how beautiful its  best hikes  are; you’ve got Iceberg Lake with its little floating icebergs in a jagged mountain-framed alpine lake and aqua-blue Cracker Lake surrounded by meadow flowers. Saint Mary Falls is a scenic 35-foot waterfall that photographers and good-view-lovers will adore.

If you’re fit, you could tackle two hikes in this national park over a weekend. It’s where to hike if you want alpine scenery galore and fabulous wildlife sightseeing opportunities. You can spot everything from moose to bear. There are over 700 miles of trails in the national park, though, so you’ll have to be savage in your decision-making process. But it’s definitely doable in an action-packed weekend.

• Where to Stay: The Ridge at Glacier.
• Insider Tip: Go white water rafting if you’re feeling brave.

13. Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati is often overlooked and is actually one of the best weekend getaways. There are landmarks like the Roebling Suspension Bridge and museums like the Cincinnati Art Museum. However, most importantly, there are more  unique things to do , like visiting the National Underground Railroad to Freedom Center.

This center marks where brave individuals made a dash for freedom across the Ohio River, which was once the largest natural barrier between the Northern USA and Southern slave states. On a weekend trip to Cincinnati, you’ll have enough time to learn more about this disturbing period and deepen your knowledge of Civil War history as a whole.

When you want some downtime, Cincinnati has a fantastic brewery scene and tons of major-league sports. See if there are any events or tours available when you visit.

• Where to Stay: 21c Museum Hotel Cincinnati.
• Insider Tip: Cincinnati has an amazing Oktoberfest, often credited as the largest in the USA.

14. Mount Rushmore National Park, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore is an exciting weekend getaway. The colossal mountainside sculpture has been seen in major movies, not just social media and magazines. It’s a massively influential landmark depicting four former US presidents: George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Theodore Roosevelt. If you’ve got a US bucket list, chances are Mount Rushmore is on it.

You can easily reach Mount Rushmore from Rapid City, just a 30-minute drive from the sculpture. It’s ideal for a weekend getaway, as it’s easy to see the attraction quickly – it’s a tiny site despite the massive scale of the sculptures. Think of it as an efficient bucket list checker.

• Where to Stay: Bavarian Hills, Black Hills.
• Insider Tip: Walk the Avenue of the Flags Promenade afterward.

15. Detroit, Michigan

Detroit had a rough-around-the-edges stereotype, but that’s fast been shrugged off, and the city is now seen as the perfect weekend getaway for anyone wanting an industrial art atmosphere. The Detroit Industry Murals are a highlight of the Detroit Institute of Arts museum, while Lincoln Street Art Park is full of colorful street art. Detroit is creative and heavily urban, which caught our eye as one of the most unique and best weekend getaways in the USA.

You can grab food at the Eastern Market while admiring its street art murals. There’s also the Henry Ford Museum, baseball games from April to October, Motown Museum, and scenic riverfront. Detroit is your best bet if you want a city break with lots of urban art influence.

• Where to Stay: Shinola Hotel.
• Insider Tip: Any Eminem fans should take an 8-mile tour around all the movie scene spots.

16. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minneapolis is another unsung addition to our best weekend getaways. The city is nicknamed ‘the city of lakes’, with thirteen lakes dotted around its outskirts. Minneapolis is sliced in half by the Mississippi River. It has gorgeous water views, which can be enjoyed by crossing Stone Arch Bridge or walking through Boom Island Park.

You can enjoy river activities like kayaking or just inner-city waterfront hiking trails. Then you’ve also got more standard attractions like the Minneapolis Institute of Art and Walker Art Center. Minneapolis gets our vote as one of the best city breaks because of all its water activities – an amazing balance as a landlocked urban destination.

• Where to Stay: Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District.
• Insider Tip: Check out Boom Island Park in fall for stunning foliage.

17. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and is easily one of the most exciting weekend trip options. After all, it’s Yellowstone, which is the most famous national park in the USA. Yellowstone secured its national park status in 1872 and is home to nearly half of the world’s most active geysers. It’s an absolute hotbed of volcanic activity but also an excellent place for wildlife sightings. In short, it’s one of the best places to appreciate America’s most untamed nature.

You can visit Grand Prismatic Spring or watch Old Faithful explode. If you keep your eyes on the skies, you can spot moose, elk, and even bald eagles. Yellowstone National Park is one of the most rewarding weekend getaways you can possibly take.

• Where to Stay: We have a whole guide dedicated to the Best Places to Stay in Yellowstone.
• Insider Tip: Yellowstone has the largest bison population, so keep your eyes out for them.

18. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is full of culture, especially regarding food and theater, which go remarkably well together on a weekend vacation. You can taste delicious cuisine like deep-dish pizza, enjoying fabulous food before heading off for an evening of Broadway-style theater and comedy entertainment. Chicago has a huge improv comedy scene and is one of the best weekend getaways if you want evenings full of laughter.

So, we’ve established that your evenings will be spent eating yummy Chicago cuisine and watching theater and comedy shows. But what about during the day? Well, Chicago is beautifully set on Lake Michigan with a stunning skyscraper skyline. You can take a boat tour, complete the Adler Planetarium Skyline Walk, and enjoy abundant green spaces like Grant Park.

Chicago is a personality-pumped weekend vacation destination. A couple hours north, Milwaukee hosts Summerfest every year. If you have some extra time, there’s plenty to do nearby.

• Where to Stay: Don’ miss our updated guide on the top places to stay in Chicago!

Southern USA has some of the best weekend trip choices, with strong characters like Las Vegas and New Orleans. Think deeply enshrined Creole culture and cuisine, cities that know how to party, and some of the less-flocked-upon stretches of coastline for a beach break.

The South has a complex Civil War history. It is fantastic for history buffs wanting to scratch past the surface and learn more about USA history. However, it’s also a place to embrace a more outrageous side to life, partying in New Orleans, listening to live music in Nashville, and embracing Dallas’ cowboy culture.

Are you ready to embrace Southern US culture? Here are the top places to consider for weekend getaways.

19. Las Vegas, Nevada

Who doesn’t know Las Vegas? ‘Sin City’ is a popular contender on Southern America’s weekend getaway scene. Whether you love it or hate it, Las Vegas knows how to entertain. You can hit the Strip for partying, take a day trip to Death Valley , or check out bizarre attractions like the Neon Museum.

Las Vegas is one of the best weekend trips, as you can easily squeeze its highlights into a two-day itinerary. The amount of activities at night also means you can maximize your experience and time – experiencing tons of sightseeing and building loads of memories in a short time. Plus, Vegas is a breeze to get to, with regular flights from all over the world.

• Where to Stay: Here’s our guide on where to stay in Las Vegas .
• Insider Tip: Try to spend one day off the strip – we’ve got a guide on off the strip activities here .

20. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville is a city surrounded by mountains, making it a fabulous weekend trip to enjoy nature from a comfortable city base. Asheville is sandwiched between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You have beautiful views and almost immediate access to gorgeous hiking trails and scenic drives like the Blue Ridge Parkway. As if that wasn’t already enough, the city is also an easy weekend getaway, with plenty of regular flight connections. What’s not to love?

Aside from its mountains, you can walk amongst street art in the River Arts District and visit niche attractions like the Asheville Pinball Museum. Asheville has a thriving arts scene and beautiful 19th-century architecture. With the mountains so close by, you really can’t ask for a more interesting weekend break.

• Where to Stay: Elevation Lofts Hotel.
• Insider Tip : Don’t miss the Downtown Art District’s wealth of art galleries.

21. Dallas, Texas

Dallas is a prime destination for first-time visitors to Texas. Get ready for an absolute baptism of fire into Texan culture; Dallas is an exciting weekend getaway. When it comes to weekend trips, you want somewhere with enough personality that you’ll get a great taste of its character even in a short time. This is precisely what Dallas brings to the table. You’ve got cowboy shops dotted all over the city and the Fort Worth Rodeo just north of the city.

When you aren’t embracing Dallas’ infectious cowboy culture, you can be checking out dozens of things to do in the city center. There’s the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, from which JFK was assassinated, and the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. It is a real commercial and cultural hub, and you’ll get a great taste of Texas from a weekend in Dallas. And the extra stories from events like the JFK assassination give the city a bit more intrigue.

• Where to Stay: Mint House Dallas.
• Insider Tip: Make sure to visit the Grassy Knoll, which is a grass section marking the spot where John F Kennedy was shot in 1963.

22. Salt Lake City, Utah

Salt Lake City is easily one of the best weekend getaways in the USA. This Utah metropolis sits between the Great Salt Lake and a gorgeous mountain range covered in ski resorts. The result of this is that Salt Lake City makes for great weekend getaways all year round. You could head there in winter to early spring and enjoy a mixture of city breaks and ski holidays. Or you could visit Salt Lake City in summer and enjoy Great Lake’s beaches between sightseeing.

Salt Lake City is a well-located choice for a weekend trip. In the city center, Mormon history is at Temple Square, the Pioneer Memorial Museum is nearby, and there are plenty of beautiful parks—including Sugar House Park, which offers a view of snow-covered mountains.

For us, the fact that you could ski or sunbathe in the morning and then sightsee in the afternoon is a real winner. Salt Lake City is also extremely well-connected with both international and domestic flights.

• Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City.
• Insider Tip: Provo is just 45 minutes south of Salt Lake City and has a rich Mormon history.

23. Gulf Shores, Alabama

If you love beautiful beaches, the Gulf Shores are one of the top weekend getaways in the USA. The city sits on Alabama’s south coastline and links with the Gulf State Park, which covers over 6,000 acres of sand dunes and protected coastal reserves. It has all the facilities of a city – including easy airport access. However, it also offers a quieter beach getaway experience.

In the Southern USA, many associate its coastal culture with East Coast destinations like Miami or the tropical Florida Keys. For this reason, the Gulf Shores are much less visited. This is great for you as if you visit in a tactical season, you’ll have peaceful beaches with fewer crowds than manic South Beach.

You can visit the Gulf Shores Museum or Gulf State Park Nature Center. But most importantly, you can use weekend getaways in Gulf Shores as a time to relax and rejuvenate.

• Where to Stay: I sland Winds East.
• Insider Tip: Make sure to visit Branyon Beach.

24. New Orleans, Louisiana

The ‘Big Easy’ is the place for around-the-clock entertainment and a city with serious swagger. You’ve got the creole cuisine of blended French, African, and American dishes, and there’s a raging live music scene that culminates on neon Bourbon Street. New Orleans is full of culture and diversity, with noise and action at every turn. New Orleans will maximize that time if you only have a weekend to enjoy.

You should definitely check out the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, the Museum of Death, and the architecture of the gorgeous French Quarter. As soon as night falls, though, you should check out Bourbon Street and all its action. You’ll find jazz performances at Preservation Hall, live bands at Ticklers Bar, and karaoke at The World Famous Cats Meow.

• Where to Stay: Here is our full updated guide on Where To Stay in New Orleans.
• Insider Tip: Try to coincide your visit with Mardi Gras celebrations, which fall between February and March each year.

25. Nashville, Tennessee

Last but not least, we have the incredible Nashville . As the live music capital of the country, Nashville is a worthy addition to our list of the best weekend getaways in the USA. ‘Music City’ is home to the Johnny Cash Museum, the Grand Ole Opry stage, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. Nashville is widely hailed as the birthplace of country music and bluegrass. It even has recording studios on Music Row where Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded their jams.

It’s a fast-paced weekend getaway full of sound and vibrant music culture. If you love music and music history, Nashville will, without a doubt, keep you on your toes.

At night, Nashville has a fun honky-tonk scene—little rough-and-ready bars ideal for cheap weekend getaways. Head to the District for late-night music memorabilia shopping and live music galore. If you want to experience Southern US culture in just a weekend, Nashville can do a great job.

• Where to Stay: you guessed it…our guide to the Best Places To Stay in Nashville.
• Insider Tip: Check out the street art between bars on Printers Alley.

Our Favourite Weekend Getaways in The USA

The USA is so varied in its weekend getaways. While you are inevitably limited in time when embarking on weekend trips, picking one of these leading 25 destinations helps you get the most out of a short period. And the USA really comes into its own with weekend-suited national parks and city breaks. You’ve got major cities like New York City and lesser-visited cities like Cincinnati. You have hikes, outdoor activities, and shopping streets – it’s all up to you.

What about if you’ve found your weekend destination but now feel even more inspired? Looking for more USA travel inspiration? Check out our ultimate  top 50 list of the best places to visit in the USA . We’ve also got a round-up of the best national parks to visit in 2024  here .

Plan Your Next Weekend Getaway With These Resources

• 26 Best Things to Do in Texas We Recommend
• A Local’s Guide to The Best Things to Do in San Diego
• 27 Best Places To Visit In Summer In The USA (Vacation Ideas For Everyone)
• New York At Night: Best Evening Things To Do in NYC

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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• Romantic Getaways

The Best Weekend Getaways for Couples

Want to spice things up in your relationship? Then it's time to get out of town.

Patrick Tappe/EyeEm/Getty Images

Nothing keeps the sparks flying like traveling together. Navigating new places with your significant other while spending quality one-on-one time is a great way to deepen your bond and create lasting memories.

Whether for Valentine's Day, an anniversary, or just a long holiday weekend, why not go away together to a rustic lodge, laze on a tropical beach with an umbrella-topped beverage, or cheers to your love at a countryside winery somewhere warm and sunny? Whatever your idea of a romantic escape is, we'll help you get there with these great weekend destinations perfect for couples. Get ready for starry-eyed bliss.

Montreal, Canada

If you're seeking a European-esque destination without the transatlantic flight, head to Montreal. This sophisticated Canadian metropolis is rich with history, centuries-old architecture, and bustling French bistros.

Most tourists shy away from Montreal until spring, so those who enjoy a winter wonderland vibe can delight in a quieter visit full of cold-weather charms, like ice skating at Parc La Fontaine, dogsledding in Mont Tremblant, and guided nighttime snowshoeing on Mont Royal complete with beautiful views of the city lights. Travelers can then warm up with hot chocolate by a roaring fire at one of Old Montreal's cushy hotels.

After checking out the vibrant downtown scene, couples can treat themselves to an indulgent massage or facial at the luxurious Spa St. James at The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal, or enjoy cocktails and tapas at the W Montreal's Living Room . The sexy space and its relaxed vibe will set the mood for romance.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Just a short drive from many locations in the northeast, Watch Hill is an idyllic place to visit year round. For an intimate stay, hightail it to Ocean House , a grand 1868 Victorian oceanfront beauty and the crown jewel of the New England town. Couples can enjoy long walks on the private white-sand beach and canoodling in front of the stately stone fireplace, cocktail in hand. There's a farm-to-table restaurant on site, plus a prestigious cooking school offering guests gourmet classes and intimate tastings.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is one of the Caribbean's best destinations for a romantic retreat. These easy-to-access islands — flights are under two hours from Miami and under four from New York — will have couples in paradise in no time.

For a dreamy place to call home for a few days, settle in at The Shore Club . The first resort on beautiful Long Bay Beach — the most private stretch of sand on the island of Providenciales — offers seclusion and modern amenities. Start your day on a paddle board over dazzling turquoise waters, lap up some much-needed R&R at four cabana-lined pools, and cap off your night with fresh seafood at SUI-REN, the resort's Japanese-Peruvian restaurant.

In between lounging, couples can embark on a lovely horseback ride along the white-sand beach or indulge in a stress-relieving spa treatment. And don't miss downtown Grace Bay, a hub for eateries, bars, shopping, and nightlife. There's so much on offer to refuel the spark in any relationship.

Palm Springs, California

Glamorized as Old Hollywood's vacation destination of choice, Palm Springs is still as hip as it was in Frank Sinatra's day. The desert oasis entices travelers with stylish resorts, world-class restaurants, and majestic desert views. It's a haven for hikers, adventure seekers, and golfers — with more than 100 area courses.

Try a backcountry Jeep tour through the San Andreas Fault Zone or make a trip to Joshua Tree National Park , about an hour's drive away. Looking to unwind? Soak in the natural healing waters at Desert Hot Springs or head to one of the area's many day spas for a hot-stone couples massage. Palm Springs also has a foodie scene, and many of the city's finest establishments offer patio dining under the stars.

For a relaxing staycation, book a suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage . With everything from clifftop dining to a luxe spa surrounded by the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountains, you won't have to leave the grounds to have an unforgettable weekend. There's postcard-worthy scenery in every direction, and we recommend taking it all in from a cabana at the pool while sipping an Arnold Palmer. The golf legend debuted the now-famous iced tea-lemonade drink in Palm Springs in the late '60s.

Walland, Tennessee

Take your love of adventure to new heights with a luxurious mountain retreat. Blackberry Mountain , a Relais & Châteaux resort nestled among 5,200 wondrous acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, is the perfect place to get cozy with your other half.

This rustic sanctuary balances a peaceful environment with active and wellness offerings. Outdoorsy couples can revel in everything from hiking, mountain biking, and candlelight yoga to relaxing forest baths, woodland meditation, and restorative spa treatments. After nourishing your mind and body, feed your soul at three one-of-a-kind restaurants that showcase Blackberry Farm's celebrated hospitality and culinary program.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston , called "Holy City" because of its long history of religious tolerance, is a beloved destination of many travelers due to its historic landmarks, cobblestone streets, booming food scene, and Southern charm.

Foodie couples will be in heaven: The culinary capital of the South boasts a myriad of standout spots and immersive experiences. Don't miss oysters at King Street's seafood stunner, The Ordinary , spicy fried chicken at Leon's Oyster Shop , and Texas-style brisket at Lewis Barbecue , just to name a few. For a post-dinner classic cocktail, belly up to The Bar & Patio at Husk . Fancy some bubbly? Check out the Champagne bar Camellias at Hotel Bennett.

Opt for a stay at the French Quarter Inn , a boutique gem in the heart of the historic district. At the end of a jam-packed (and no doubt delicious) day, the hotel's top-notch turndown service with a "pillow menu" — featuring seven different comfy options for resting your head — will ensure the sweetest dreams.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The largest of the three Cayman Islands is the ultimate sanctuary for couples looking for a Caribbean beach oasis — at any pace. With warm, dry weather and fewer crowds than during the height of winter, early spring is an ideal time to visit Grand Cayman and its world-renowned Seven Mile Beach.

A range of water sports invites epic adventures surrounded by the island's sparkling waters. You can kayak through lush, tropical mangroves or charter a catamaran to Rum Point on the north coast. Want to indulge in some rest and relaxation with your beloved? Sun-drenched afternoons spent lounging on pink-sand beaches or entwined in a hammock will do the trick.

Grand Cayman's spectacular sunsets are a quintessential backdrop for passionate evenings. Catch magical views of the fiery spectacle at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa , followed by an exceptional dinner experience at Avecita with a custom chefs' counter tasting of seasonal, wood-fired fare that's unique to the Caribbean. Pro tip: snag a reservation in advance — there are only 30 seats and just one seating per night.

Paso Robles, California

Uncork that lovin' feeling with a jaunt to California 's third-largest wine region (following more famous territories, Napa and Sonoma). Nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the state's central coast lies a vast rolling countryside speckled with vineyards, olive groves, farms, and ranches.

With its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, Paso Robles is a perfect stop for a relaxing long weekend. Wine is the main attraction here: Sip your way through cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, merlot, and more at 200-plus wineries. Many tastings take place on sun-drenched outdoor spaces with breathtaking vistas, creating a next-level experience. Visitors tend to fall in love with Paso's chill ambiance, and lodging is typically more affordable than in California's more well-known wine regions.

If you get wined out — is that even a thing? — you can switch it up by sampling local olive oils, touring a craft brewery, or taking a dip in a hot spring. Downtown, you'll find interesting boutiques and great eateries. Stop by The General Store for honey, olive oil, soaps, and handmade goods from area producers to bring home.

Park City, Utah

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

What's more dreamy than cozying up by a fireplace in a snowy mountain lodge? Having local whiskey and chocolates in hand, of course. Park City is a winter wonderland rich with small-town charms, and it's quickly accessible from Salt Lake City International Airport.

Hit the slopes at two world-class resorts — Park City Mountain and Deer Valley — which offer some of the world's greatest ski conditions. In between runs on fresh powder, savor magnificent snow-capped landscapes and gourmet fare at several on-mountain pit stops. For a stellar après-ski situation, make your way to the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis Deer Valley resort for decadent hot chocolate, fireside s'mores, and craft cocktails.

Beyond mountain sports, Utah's historic mining town is like a holiday postcard come to life, full of perfect date activities like sleigh rides, ice skating, hot-air balloon rides, dogsledding, and shopping along historic Main Street, where the facades of many acclaimed restaurants and saloons are preserved from the 1880s. Unwind with a whiskey flight at Park City's own High West Distillery . For an excellent candlelit dinner featuring local live music, head to Riverhorse on Main , then saddle up to popular No Name Saloon Bar & Grill for a nightcap. There's so much for couples to see and do in "Winter's Favorite Town."

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Just a short drive south from the Cancun airport, Playa del Carmen is situated along the Yucatán's palm-lined Caribbean coastline. With its unspoiled natural setting and upscale hotels, Mexico's Riviera Maya is a first-rate vacation destination — and an ideal escape for lovebirds seeking warm weather.

If privacy and luxury is your speed, say "hola" to the area's most romantic resort: The five-star Rosewood Mayakoba . Set along the edges of a freshwater lagoon, the property features refined accommodations with over-the-top amenities, heated plunge pools, and in-room mezcal to spice things up. You'll also find three infinity pools sunken in the sand, an open kitchen for interactive culinary experiences, and a beachfront fire pit to curl up next to in the moonlight.

New Paltz, New York

Looking for a place that's a short drive from New York City but feels worlds away? Reserve a room at Mohonk Mountain House . Family-owned and -operated since 1869, this Victorian resort is perched on the the banks of crystal blue Lake Mohonk in New Paltz.

The grand, castle-like property offers couples an award-winning spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and a range of daily outdoor activities. In winter, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on groomed trails and ice skating on the private pavilion. Warmer months bring horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking in the surrounding Shawangunk Ridge.

Leisurely, romantic days are also welcome: Sip hot chocolate and snuggle up by one of the stone fireplaces, soak in the outdoor heated mineral pool, or watch the sunset from rocking chairs on the porch. Just being with your sweetheart, surrounded by pristine mountain wilderness, is enough to make you fall in love all over again.

Whether it’s a cross-country road trip, a quick day trip, or a relaxing weekend getaway, get ready to hit the open road with ‘Road Trip Ready,’ the ultimate travel podcast for endless road trip inspiration and ideas. Join hosts Danielle Desir Corbett and Christopher Rudder, passionate road trippers and experienced travelers, as they go beyond the surface-level information in typical travel guides. From charming small towns to picturesque villages and lesser-known attractions across the U.S. and Canada, discover what makes each destination unique, its claim to fame, and the best-kept secrets locals cherish. Dive into the planning process, from selecting the perfect routes, packing essentials, budgeting tips, and more. Equipped with insights, you’ll be well-prepared to create unforgettable memories with your family and friends. So buckle up, and turn up the volume because you’re ‘Road Trip Ready’! To find out more, visit roadtripreadypodcast.com. Stay connected on Instagram @road_trip_ready for additional road trip inspiration and exclusive content.

Road Trip Ready: Road Trip Planning Tips, Inspiration and Getaway Ideas Danielle Desir Corbett and Christopher Rudder

• Society & Culture
• 5.0 • 2 Ratings
• MAR 25, 2024

EP7 | How To Make Road Trips More Comfortable and Enjoyable

Discomfort is common during road trips, often leading people to avoid them. Today, we'll explore improving road trip comfort by sharing our favorite tips and resources. We discuss what makes road trips enjoyable, including bonding time, the car essentials, and discovering hidden treasures off the beaten path. Additionally, we'll share our personal playbook, like using apps such as GasBuddy to save money on gas and essential memberships for unexpected situations because, let's face it, potholes don't care about your plans. In this episode, we cover: (13:50) Road Trip Planning and Taking Turns (20:46) Road Trip Comfort and Safety (31:10) Road Trip Entertainment (35:29) Road Trip Breaks and Emergency Services (45:48) Additional Road Trip Tips and Hidden Gems Connect with Us Join our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripready Website: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram: @road_trip_ready Connect with Danielle Desir Corbett Website: https://thoughtcard.com/ The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcard Instagram: @thedanielledesir Twitter: @thethoughtcard Connect with Christopher Rudder Website: https://roadtripontario.ca/ Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMedia Instagram: @road_trip_on

• FEB 26, 2024

EP6 | Thrilling Driving Experiences in Manchester, Vermont

Looking for fun things to do in Manchester, Vermont? From off-roading at the Land Rover Experience to cruising up the Mount Equinox Skyline Drive for breathtaking views, don't miss these hidden gems and unique driving experiences in Vermont. In this episode, we cover: (5:30) Off-roading in Manchester, VT (10:00) Mount Equinox Skyline Drive (16:00) Carthusian monks at the summit (20:00) Tips for descending Mount Equinox Connect with Us Join our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripready Website: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/ Connect with Danielle Desir Corbett Website: https://thoughtcard.com/ The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcard Connect with Christopher Rudder Website: https://roadtripontario.ca/ Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/

• FEB 12, 2024

EP5 | Road Tripping with Kids: From Infants to Teens with Kevin Wager

Most people envision challenges and stress when it comes to road-tripping with kids. But award-winning travel writer Kevin Wager is here to shatter that perception. Discover how to turn road trips with kids into unforgettable adventures that strengthen family bonds. From infants to teenagers, Kevin discusses the different considerations that come with each age group. Additionally, he shares practical advice like staying organized and addresses the financial aspect of road trips, noting they can be a more budget-friendly alternative to air travel. Leave this episode feeling encouraged about prioritizing travel experiences with your family and making time for adventures, even amidst busy schedules. In this episode, we cover: (4:09) The impact of travel on kids(6:19) Differences in road-tripping with kids of various ages(12:43) Planning kid-friendly road trip stops(15:01) Essential gear for road trips(23:45) Navigating children's schedules and travel Connect with Kevin Wagar Website: https://wanderingwagars.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderingwagars/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderingwagars/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/wanderingwagars/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@wanderingwagars/ Connect with Us Join our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripready Website: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/ Connect with Danielle Desir Corbett Website: https://thoughtcard.com/ The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcard Connect with Christopher Rudder Website: https://roadtripontario.ca/ Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/

• JAN 29, 2024

EP4 | Traveling with Pets: How to Successfully Road Trip with Dogs and Cats with Britt Kascjak

Are you planning to take a road trip with your furry friends? Join us as we talk to Britt Kascjak, the owner of The Kas Pack blog and Shed Happens. She is an expert in outdoor travel with pets. Whether this is your first time traveling with your pet or you're an experienced traveler, you'll learn valuable tips on getting ready for the journey and dealing with any anxieties, particularly if you have an older or more energetic pet. Additionally, find out about the necessary equipment and gear you'll need to keep your furry babies healthy and happy throughout your road trip. In this episode, we cover: (7:13) Overcoming anxiety with pet travel(8:12) Tips for first-time pet travelers(11:03) Essential gear for pet road trips(14:52) First aid for pets(16:16) Organizing pet travel gear(20:06) Leash and lead considerations(25:29) Differences between traveling with cats and dogs(28:29) Litter box solutions for cats(31:50) Options when leaving pets at home Recommended Road Trip Essentials For Pets  Traditional Kennel, 28″, for Dogs 20-30 Lbs: https://amzn.to/3NVmYqI Travel carrier (for smaller pets):https://amzn.to/48OMfLy  Dog harness (includes pet seat belts): https://amzn.to/3SgZMWQ  Pet first aid: https://amzn.to/3TVlr81  Injury wrap tape for pets: https://amzn.to/3RROEy6  Styptic powder for pets: https://amzn.to/47zHqo6  Saline eye rinse: https://amzn.to/3NXGSS7  Travel litter box for cats: https://amzn.to/3NSTOZh Connect with Britt Kascjak Website:https://thekaspack.com/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0iDVMNUMhWgjl9QGEBvT0Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thekaspack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekaspack/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thekaspack Connect with Us Join our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripready Website: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/ Connect with Danielle Desir Corbett Website: https://thoughtcard.com/ The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcard Connect with Christopher Rudder Website: https://roadtripontario.ca/ Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/

• JAN 15, 2024

EP3 | Exploring Rochester NY: The Legacy of Susan B. Anthony and the Women's Suffrage Movement

We explore the deep roots of the women's suffrage movement in Rochester, New York, and its lasting impact on our society. Discover how Susan B. Anthony fought for equity and played a crucial role in securing women's right to vote in the United States. [1:13] Introduction to Susan B. Anthony and her role in the women's suffrage movement [3:24] Discussion on Susan B. Anthony's fight for equity and her early causes [4:38] Susan B. Anthony's involvement in the temperance movement [8:13] Susan B. Anthony's advocacy for labor, pay equity, and ending slavery [9:15] Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass' historic debate [12:41] Honoring Susan B. Anthony's Legacy [14:15] Tips for visiting the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House Thank you to Deborah Hughes, President & CEO of the National Landmark Susan B. Anthony Museum & House, for joining us. Visit Susan B. Anthony Museum & House: https://susanb.org/ 🚗 Plan Your Trip To Rochester, NY: - Fun Things To Do In Rochester, NY For First-Timer Visitors: https://roadtripontario.ca/things-to-do-in-rochester-ny/ - 5 Reasons To Visit Rochester, NY: https://thoughtcard.com/top-reasons-to-visit-rochester-new-york/ - Best Places To Eat in Rochester: https://thoughtcard.com/places-to-eat-rochester/ Connect with Us Join our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripready Website: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/ Connect with Danielle Desir Corbett: Website: https://thoughtcard.com/ The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcard Connect with Christopher Rudder: Website: https://roadtripontario.ca/ Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/

• JAN 1, 2024

EP2 | Advantages and Disadvantages of Road Tripping

Join us as we dive into the advantages and disadvantages of hitting the open road. We cover everything from freedom and flexibility to the dreaded tolls and traffic. But don't worry; we also provide solutions to overcome these challenges. Whether you're a road trip enthusiast or hesitant to give it a try, this episode will help set your expectations and motivate you to get out the door. So grab your bags, adjust your mirrors, and get road trip ready with us! (01:22) Advantages of road tripping (18:10) Disadvantages of road trips (19:45) Challenges specific to Canadian road trips, such as weather and gas stations in remote areas (26:49) Challenges specific to US road trips, including tolls and the scattered toll system Connect with Us Join our newsletter: https://newsletter.roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/roadtripready Website: https://roadtripreadypodcast.com/ Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_ready/ Connect with Danielle Desir Corbett Website: https://thoughtcard.com/ The Thought Card Podcast: https://pod.link/1434482532 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thethoughtcard Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielledesir/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thethoughtcard Connect with Christopher Rudder Website: https://roadtripontario.ca/ Website: https://rudderlesstravel.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RudderlessMedia Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/road_trip_on/

• © Danielle Desir Corbett & Christopher Rudder

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The 10 Best Weekend Getaways In Texas For The Ultimate Lone Star Trip

Whether you want small-town charm, scenic views, or outdoor adventures, you'll find it at these incredible destinations.

The good thing about Texas being as big as it is—almost 270,000 square miles to be exact—is that it means there is no shortage of destinations worth visiting for a packed-full weekend. Texas has small towns that feel like a charming step back in time, big cities with vibrant culture, and scenic nature parks that offer endless outdoor adventure. Basically, you won't be getting bored or be left short on Lone Star spirit, whether you're looking for a seasonal escape, family outing, or girlfriends' trip. While you might not be able to visit every one of these 10 best Texas weekend getaways, you can certainly try.

Here are our favorite recommendations for weekend trips in Texas.

Fredericksburg

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is the perfect small-town destination and is easily accessible for a weekend jaunt from all of Texas' big cities. The town dates back to 1846 when German immigrants founded it and still maintains its authentic German heritage to this day. From over 100 wineries and tasting rooms to a Main Street bustling with shops, galleries, restaurants, and biergartens, there are plenty of things to do when visiting Fredericksburg.

Head to  Old German Bakery & Restaurant  for a hearty breakfast, and make sure to get the German pancake. Book the  290 Wine Shuttle  for safe all-day transportation between the wineries. Visit  Enchanted Rock State Park , which is a big pink granite dome you can hike for amazing views.

See our guide to Fredericksburg, Texas

Fort Worth is a destination both charmingly stuck in time and filled with new life. You'll still find remnants of a bygone era, like weekly rodeos, honky-tonks, and a working herd of hometown cattle. You can also find new museums, restaurants, watering holes, and a renovated entertainment hub, Mule Alley, in the National Historic District.

You'll find heritage-brand stores like  Lucchese Bootmaker  and  King Ranch Saddle Shop  for shopping. Grab a bottled cocktail in a souvenir flask from Second Rodeo Brewing , with ample indoor-outdoor seating. Finally, watch the twice-daily cattle drive down the main street near Cowtown Coliseum.

See our guide to Fort Worth, Texas

Port Aransas

This old-school fishing village has long been a nostalgic vacation spot for generations of Texas families. Head across the car ferry to Mustang Island—the flat, narrow barrier island where you'll find the town of Port Aransas. Fishing charters remain a draw for tourists on the Texas coast, but you can also enjoy calmer activities like bird-watching, laying on the beach, and eating all the fresh seafood.

For recreational boating,  The Scarlet Lady Dolphin Adventure  and  Dolphin Docks Deep Sea Fishing  run scenic cruises that showcase the area's friendly seafaring mammals, which can be seen swimming all around the island. Book a nighttime GlowRow tour, which sets out after dark and offers a unique view of sea life through clear kayaks lined with neon LED lights.

See our guide to Port Aransas, Texas

New Braunfels

New Braunfels is a historic town at the confluence of the Comal and Guadalupe rivers in the Texas Hill Country, situated between Austin and San Antonio. You're able to grab a tube and float down the rivers at leisure, making this town perfect for spring and summer visits. You'll also find the Gruene Historic District, which is home to the oldest dance hall in Texas, Gruene Hall.

There’s live music every night at Gruene Hall , so grab a pair of cowboy boots and hit the dance floor. Grab dinner at  The Gristmill Restaurant (get the chicken-friend steak!) perched under Gruene’s iconic water tower in the 19th-century cotton gin ruins, or sample a wine tasting flight at  The Grapevine , where Texas wines make up most selections. 

See our guide to New Braunfels, Texas

For those wanting a real Texas adventure, head out west to Terlingua and nearby parks, Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park. Known as a ghost town (resulting from an abandoned mining company) that turned into a remote tourist enclave, this town has just enough funk. Plus, you'll find plenty of glamping sites to stay while you're there.

Stay at the charming  La Posada Milagro Guesthouse , and walk over to  Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon , an all-in-one eatery, live-music venue, and community hub that has been a gathering spot for decades. Set out exploring with equipment or a guide from  Big Bend Boating and Hiking .

See our guide to Big Bend and Terlingua, Texas

San Antonio

Mariah Tyler

This cultural hub is a fabulous escape for exploring the River Walk and eating your way through authentic Tex-Mex. Historic Market Square  and  The Alamo are the heart of River Walk tourism, and for good reason. Fiesta, the city's annual springtime festival, is typically centered there every April. The extravaganza lasts over a week and is—at its core—a celebration of culture in the loudest, brightest, and most exuberant sense. 

Grab a sweet treat at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería , an 80-year-old family bakery and restaurant that's known for offering over a dozen different kinds of pan dulce, a traditional Mexican sweet bread. The Pearl's Bottling Department , San Antonio's first food hall, has dining options that run the gamut, and you can stay at the accompanying Hotel Emma , built inside the old brewhouse.

See our guide to San Antonio, Texas

John Davidson

Boerne (pronounced BUR-nee) sits in the Texas Hill Country and is a top pick for those searching for nostalgic joys: a root beer float from an old-school sweet shop, a welcoming smile on its colorful Main Street, or a spontaneous dunk into the Guadalupe River. Most of the big action in Boerne is centered on a lively downtown district known as the Hill Country Mile, which consists of the Main Street drag lined with dozens of antique shops and specialty stores. 

Visit The Dienger Trading Co. , which is housed in a 137-year-old grocery store building and is a multipronged shop with a bistro, bakery, and boutique all under one roof. Book one of the 34 rooms at  The Kendall , a boutique hotel in a restored circa-1859 stagecoach stop, to be within walking distance of everything on Main Street. 

See our guide to Boerne, Texas

This North Texas town is known for being a destination for wine lovers who like to explore the in-town tasting rooms and vineyards outside of town, but also as the ultimate Christmas small town. In fact, the state senate issued a proclamation more than a decade ago declaring this town the  Christmas Capital of Texas . Shop around the quaint downtown for gifts to take home.

Board the  Grapevine Vintage Railroad's Wine Train  to explore vineyards outside of town. Shops not to be missed are gourmet confectionery  Dr. Sue's Chocolate ,  Hole in the Wall  gift shop, and  Vetro Glassblowing Studio & Fine Art Gallery . Gather at  Hop & Sting Brewing Co.   for craft brews made with Texas-grown ingredients.

See our guide to Grapevine, Texas

You'll find this town fitting for its name, as it's hidden quite deeply in Texas Hill Country. Remarkably, many Texans have never been to this rural area or even heard about the two state parks nestled covertly into the wild landscape. Utopia is located smack-dab in the middle of both Lost Maples State Natural Area and Garner State Park , which are family-friendly parks for camping and fall color.

In the remote area, find sustenance and a unique stay at Saturday-only restaurant The Laurel Tree and Treehouse Utopia . All four accommodations are built into centuries-old bald cypress trees.

See our guide to Utopia, Texas

The Texas state capital city has become known for its relaxed, laid-back vibe and vibrant live music scene, which are both easy to come by on a weekend trip. The best times of year to visit are spring and fall, when mild weather helps make the most of the many outdoor activities and venues. You can even take day trips over to nearby small towns Driftwood, Dripping Springs, and Wimberley to get your fill of Texas landscape and culture.

Stop by  The White Horse  in East Austin for free two-step dance lessons, or visit legendary spot  Broken Spoke  for lessons and live music. Take in the downtown skyline as you bike or run along  Lady Bird Lake  on the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Finally, enjoy classic Tex-Mex at Matt's El Rancho Tex-Mex , taco truck  Discada , and  La Barbecue  for Texas brisket.

See our guide to Austin, Texas

Related Articles

23 Incredible Road Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re looking for sweeping views of the pacific ocean or a multiday adventure through national parks, these road trips provide plenty of opportunities to explore the united states..

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Glacier National Park is one of many scenic places you can visit on an American road trip.

Photo by Zack Frank / Shutterstock

In a country as large as the United States, there’s no shortage of destinations and detours to explore by car . Whether your idea of the perfect American road trip entails an epic, cross-country journey or a shorter jaunt through a few of its most iconic national parks , your options are as large and varied as the country itself.

Even if you don’t have the time to drive cross-country, there are plenty of road trip routes (ranging from three days to a week or longer): classic California itineraries , New England routes that shine especially well in the fall, scenic East Coast adventures, and a variety of Midwest journeys for folks farther from the coasts.

No matter your mode of transportation—be it van, RV, motorcycle, or four-door sedan—these are 21 of the best road trips in the nation to consider.

Plan your next Route 66 trip around thirst-quenching stops.

Photo by Peek Creative Collective/Shutterstock

There are many ways to do a cross-country road trip in the USA, but these two itineraries will take you through some truly iconic American places.

1. Chicago to Los Angeles: A Whiskey Road Trip on Route 66

It doesn’t get more American than a 2,000-mile drive along the entirety of Route 66. There are endless ways to take this legendary trip (including an EV version —but to take your cross-country road trip to the next level, we recommend exploring another American pastime: whiskey.

Starting in Chicago and ending in L.A., you’ll stop by some of the leading craft distilleries in the United States, like Few Spirits in Chicago, Still 630 in St. Louis, and Red Fork Distillery in Tulsa. In between tastings, make time for detours to natural attractions, like the Grand Canyon, and quirky roadside curiosities, like Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas. Just remember to drink responsibly—this is a road trip after all.

Plan your trip

The full itinerary: Put a New Twist on Route 66—Make It an American Whiskey Road Trip

No cars are allowed on Mackinac Island, so you need to park before taking the ferry to this spot.

Photo from Shutterstock

2. Bangor, Maine, to Seattle, Washington: The Great Northern on U.S. Route 2

Covering both the U.S. and Canada, a cross-country trip along U.S. 2 is ideal for anyone who wants to experience the vast diversity and expansiveness of North America. This drive runs the entire top border of the U.S. and showcases otherworldly natural wonders like Acadia National Park in Maine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, and Mackinac Island in Michigan. The route also passes through Canada, taking road-trippers through Ontario into Quebec—this route may focus on nature, but you won’t want to miss a stop in Montreal or Ottawa.

You’ll also get to explore Montana and Glacier National Park ( reservations may be required ) before passing the Columbia Plateau and ending in the Pacific Northwest’s largest city, Seattle. Don’t miss spending time in the Olympic Peninsula (home to Olympic National Park) for a peek at one of the most scenic places on the West Coast.

3. Dana Point to San Francisco: Driving California’s Pacific Coast Highway

The seemingly endless views of the Pacific Ocean along Highway 1 (also known as the Pacific Coast Highway) are what road trip dreams are made of, and exactly what makes this California road trip so popular. However, with so many stops along the 655-mile stretch, we pulled together a list of the ones well worth pulling over to view. Don’t miss the perfect surfing waves in Santa Cruz, seasonal cuisine in Malibu, an afternoon a the boardwalk in Santa Monica, or a night in Big Sur as you drive between Dana Point (just south of Los Angeles) and San Francisco.

• The full itinerary: The Best Stops for a Road Trip on the Pacific Coast Highway
• The AFAR Guide to San Francisco

The seaside town of Monterey was the setting for John Steinbeck’s Cannery Row .

Photo by Denise Lett/Shutterstock

4. Big Sur to Mono County: A Literary Road Trip Through Northern California

Yes, this itinerary requires you actually put down your book to drive, but seeing some of the pivotal places that shaped American authors will be so worth it. Follow in the footsteps of writers like Jack Kerouac, Maya Angelou, and Amy Tan on this road trip that takes you through literary landmarks in Northern California, such as Caffe Trieste, a meeting place for Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Alan Watts, and other bohemian writers and thinkers. This 12-stop itinerary is perfect if you live in the San Francisco Bay Area because you’ll be able to stay make these trips in one or two days.

The full itinerary: The California Road Trip All Book Lovers Should Take

Arizona may take its nickname from the Grand Canyon, but the state has far more natural wonders than just that one.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

5. Phoenix to the Grand Canyon: An Iconic Arizona Road Trip

This 240-mile Arizona road trip takes travelers along some of the state’s most iconic highlights, including its most famous one, the Grand Canyon. A great itinerary for first-time visitors and returning travelers alike, it offers plenty of opportunities for scenic drives, hiking, and biking—as well as tasty food along the way. Hike the 2,704-foot-tall Camelback Mountain in Scottsdale or take in the beautiful red rocks of Sedona on a hike to Cathedral Rock while exploring the Grand Canyon State.

• The full itinerary: The Classic 5-Day Arizona Road Trip
• Grand Canyon guide: The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon
• Where to eat in Phoenix: A Chef’s Guide to the Best Restaurants
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Arizona ; The Best Airbnbs in Sedona

The Delicate Arch living up to its name in Utah’s Arches National Park

Photo by tusharkoley / Shutterstock

6. Zion to Grand Canyon: A National Parks Road Trip in the Southwest

If you’re looking to visit as many national parks as possible in one road trip, this southwestern itinerary is for you. This journey through Utah and Arizona lets you hike Angel’s Landing in Zion, feel tiny under Delicate Arch in Arches National Park, explore Fairyland Loop Trail in Bryce Canyon, and, of course, raft down the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon. Most visitors to the Grand Canyon remain on the rim, but take at least four days to venture within the canyon and take advantage of the trails and river rafting.

• The full itinerary: The Ideal Road Trip Through U.S. National Parks
• Utah’s 8 Best National Parks and Monuments
• 10 Best National Parks and Monuments in Arizona
• The First-Timer’s Guide to the Grand Canyon

Stop and admire the winding roads of the San Juan Skyway.

Photo by Anh Luu/Shutterstock

7. San Juan Scenic Skyway Road Trip: An Adventure Through Southwestern Colorado

This Colorado trip takes you along the 232-mile loop of the San Juan Scenic Skyway, where you will see plenty of alpine forests, mining towns, and craggy peaks. And for anyone looking to enjoy refreshments after a long day of driving, this route features many opportunities to stop at some of the best breweries in Colorado , such as Ska Brewing Co. in Durango.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Southwestern Colorado Road Trip
• Five Classic Colorado Road Trips To Take This Year

In small-town Buena Vista, the riverfront Surf Hotel offers front-row seats to Colorado-style adventure seekers.

Courtesy of the Surf Hotel

8. Denver to Montrose: A 420-Mile Road Trip Through Colorado

Want to explore even more of the Centennial State? Head out on this weeklong road trip where you can fish for salmon in Colorado’s largest reservoir, visit numerous small towns, like Paonia and Crawford, with thriving art scenes along the Colorado Creative Corridor , and explore Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, one of the least visited national parks in the nation.

• The full itinerary: Art Stars, High-Altitude Wines, and a Remote National Park: The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Colorado
• The AFAR Guide to Denver

Portland may be Oregon’s largest city, but with a population of some 652,000 (or 2.5 million in the larger metropolitan area), it isn’t intimidatingly large.

Photo courtesy of Travel Portland

9. Portland to Astoria: An Oregon Coast Road Trip for Outdoor Lovers

If you love the outdoors, then this six-day road trip along the coast of Oregon is for you. After driving to Coos Bay from Portland, travelers will meander along Oregon’s dramatic, rocky coastline, discovering some quintessentially Pacific Northwest vistas along the way: evergreen forests, seaside dunes, and marine ecosystems. Between stops, there are ample opportunities to stretch your legs hiking, kayaking, or strolling around the region’s small towns—like the historic old town in Florence.

Of course, it wouldn’t be an Oregon road trip without a stop (or three) at a craft brewery, such as Fort George Brewery in Astoria, or cozy coffee shop, like Bread & Roses in Yachats.

• The full itinerary: An Outdoor Lover’s Road Trip on the Oregon Coast
• The AFAR Guide to Portland

The State Capitol Building in Nashville marks the end of this road (trip).

Photo by photo.ua / Shutterstock

10. Seneca Falls, New York, to Nashville, Tennessee: Follow the Path of the Women’s Suffrage Movement

Starting in New York’s Finger Lakes region and ending at the State Capitol Building in Nashville, this road trip traces the route of the national women’s suffrage movement. Highlights include stops at the Susan B. Anthony Museum & House ; Union Square in New York City, which was the site of the first suffrage march; and the Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument in Washington, D.C.

• The full itinerary: Celebrate Women’s Suffrage on an Epic, Self-Guided Road Trip
• Where to stay: The Best Hotels in Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Nashville
• The AFAR Guide to Washington, D.C.

Asheville is one must-stop on a North Carolina road trip.

Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

11. Charlottesville to Asheville: A Scenic Road Trip Through Virginia and North Carolina

The Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the country. Beginning in the soft hilly meadows of the Appalachian Mountains from Shenandoah National Park down into the Blue Ridge Mountains, then into the Great Smoky Mountains, this five-day road trip is best done at a slower pace, which is perfect for admiring the dramatic outlooks and green plateaus. This eclectic itinerary features stops at an art museum, a dairy farm, and plenty of hiking trails.

• The full itinerary: The Ultimate Blue Ridge Parkway Road Trip
• Where to stay: 12 Dreamy Blue Ridge Mountain Cabins You Can Rent on Airbnb and Vrbo
• 8 U.S. National Park Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

Dowa:kwe dance group from Zuni Pueblo in 2019

Courtesy of Indian Pueblo Cultural Center

12. Albuquerque to Las Cruces: Discover New Mexico on This Three-Day Road Trip

This route steers you away from New Mexican tourist hot spots like Taos and Santa Fe and instead takes you on a three-day adventure with places that teach you about Pueblo history. You’ll stop at Indian Pueblo Kitchen (formerly known as Pueblo Harvest), a restaurant inside the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center that features Indigenous cuisine ; pick up peppers at Three Brothers in Hatch; and slide down the dunes in White Sands National Park.

• The full itinerary: This New Mexico Road Trip Is the Perfect Introduction to the Land of Enchantment

Historic Fort Martin Scott is one of the places travelers can visit to learn about Fredericksburg’s history.

Photo by Mark König/Unsplash

13. A Five-Day Scenic Road Trip Through Texas Hill Country

This Texas road trip starts and ends in San Antonio with stops in small towns like Bandera, Boerne, and consider a stop in Fredericksburg, which is one of AFAR’s best places to go in 2024 ). Over five days, you’ll find opportunities to stroll in a Japanese tea garden in San Antonio, relax along the Sabinal and Frio Rivers by inner tube, and eat as many tacos as you want. Seriously: You could eat tacos for every meal on this road trip and not get tired of them.

• The full itinerary: Tree Houses, Tubing, and Tacos: The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Road Trip

Mount McKinley looms large on a drive through Denali National Park.

Photo by warnsweet / Shutterstock

14. A Weeklong Road Trip Through Alaska’s Most Majestic Sights

This weeklong drive in Alaska starts and ends in Anchorage. You travel along four scenic byways; explore Wrangell–St. Elias wilderness, the largest U.S. national park; catch sight of Denali, the tallest peak in North America; and enjoy the surprisingly stellar food scene of McCarthy, a one-road town with only a couple dozen residents.

• The full itinerary: Glaciers, Mountain Peaks, and Organic Farms: The Ultimate Alaska Road Trip
• Which Alaska National Parks Should You Visit?

More than geothermal pools, Kirkham Hot Springs features a piping-hot waterfall.

Courtesy of Idaho Tourism

15. Boise to Sun Valley: Explore Idaho’s Scenic Byways

Even a short road trip can be packed with adventure, good food, and scenery, which is exactly what this trip from Boise to Sun Valley along Idaho’s Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway offers. Although the drive only takes six hours, we recommend taking a few days to explore all the stops and detours along the way. One can’t-miss spot is the Kirkham Hot Springs , where you can stand under a waterfall that will splash you with 135-degree mineral water year-round.

• The full itinerary: The Little-Known Idaho Road Trip You Need to Drive
• Things to do: The Best Outdoorsy Things to Do in Idaho

Grand Portage State Park is the only state park jointly managed by a state and a Native American band.

Photo by Shutterstock/QZ

16. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park: A Scenic Minnesota Sampler

Although there are many appealing road trips throughout the Midwest, this 143-mile, three-hour circuit, which starts and ends in Duluth, Minnesota, is worth keeping in mind. Meandering north on MN-61 with this itinerary, you will enjoy prime views of Lake Superior and towns like Grand Marais, as well as Grand Portage State Park, home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and opportunities to learn about the Ojibwe community who occupy the land today. Once back in Duluth, enjoy a beer at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into the waterfront Canal Park Lodge nearby.

• The AFAR Guide to Minnesota

Wind your way through colorful foliage in New Hampshire.

Photo by Shutterstock

17. Kancamagus Highway: A Quintessential New England Drive

Yes, you can take a road trip in New England at any time of the year , but this region shows off its best colors in the fall, when locals and tourists alike head out into the country to view the changing colors of the trees. Join other admirers of fall foliage on this popular, 34.5-mile road trip along New Hampshire’s Kancamagus Highway, colloquially known as the “Kanc,” for picturesque ponds, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks.

• Plan Your Fall Getaway With This Peak Foliage Prediction Map

Ogunquit is home to the small, postcard-perfect harbor of Perkins Cove.

Photo courtesy of QualityHD / Shutterstock

18. Maine’s “Lobster Trail”: Travel Route 1 Along the Coast

Traveling Route 1, affectionately known as “the lobster trail,” along Maine’s jagged coastline is an exercise in indulgence. Sample lobster dishes in all forms—buttered, steamed, on a roll, or even in a decadent mac-and-cheese.

The trip starts in the quaint small town of Ogunquit , with its rare (for the area) 3.5 miles of white-sand beach. Make your first lobster of the journey count, steamed with a side of drawn butter at Barnacle Billy’s in picturesque Perkins Cove harbor. Stop at Big Daddy’s for a cone on your way to the shipbuilding center—and summer home of George H. W. Bush—Kennebunkport. Stay at the recently redesigned 150-year-old classic White Barn Inn , and consider a sailing trip for an afternoon. With lobsters cooked in ocean water, the legendary lobster roll at the Clam Shack is a must.

• 8 Scenic East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year

Throughout North Carolina’s Piedmont region, innovative restaurants, shops, and restaurants like Leah & Louise in Charlotte, above, are creating a buzz.

Photo by Peter Taylor Photography

19. Raleigh to Charlotte: A 4-Day Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

North Carolina’s Piedmont region extends from the coastal plain to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and includes farmland and rolling wooded hills, especially on the 1-40 stretch near Hillsborough. Starting in Raleigh, drive the short distances to Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and Charlotte to see how these cities are innovating through art, food, and a celebration of the past. Take your time—four days should do—to experience downtown arts districts, James Beard Award–winning restaurants, and civil rights museums that speak truths. Plan your trip

• A Road Trip Through North Carolina’s Reinvented Core

Scenic South Walton is part of the Emerald Coast of Florida.

20. Scenic Highway 30A: A Sunday Drive Through South Walton, Florida

Florida is full of places to cruise with the top down, but it’s hard to beat a Sunday (or any day) drive along Scenic Highway 30A through northwest Florida, home to a postcard-perfect stretch of seaside towns known as South Walton.

The roughly 28-mile route through South Walton County kisses the coast for nearly all its length, taking you through gorgeous residential Gulf-front communities like Rosemary Beach, Grayton Beach, and Blue Mountain Beach . Roll down the windows and let the emerald-hued views in.

Pull over to explore, too—maybe to admire the New Urbanism architecture in Alys Beach or to swim in the clear waters at Grayton Beach State Park . (The beach here has been lauded among the best in the world.)

• The full itinerary: The Florida Road Trip You’ve Been Missing

Stand-up paddleboarding is just one way to enjoy a Florida Keys sunset.

Shutterstock

21. The Florida Keys: An Island-Hopping Getaway

For a sunny road trip itinerary in Florida, skip Miami and head farther south. Beginning in Key Largo and ending in Key West, the Florida Keys Scenic Highway is often overlooked for more well-known routes up north, but it is well worth going out of your way to experience.

As the name suggests, this route is very scenic, so plan to spend at least a few days exploring it and numerous stops along the way. Some highlights include driving across the impressive Overseas Highway, stopping to admire art in the town of Islamorada, and enjoying the historic sites, food, and (of course) beaches in the city of Key West.

• The full itinerary: How to Road Trip in the Lesser-Known Florida Keys

Sun Studio in Memphis was the site of the famous Million Dollar recording session that brought together Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Johnny Cash.

Photo by f11photo on Shutterstock

22. Memphis to Bristol, Tennessee: A Music-Driven Adventure

If you have about a week to spare and a deep appreciation for music, take a road trip from one side of Tennessee to the other, starting in Memphis and ending in Bristol. The eastbound trip spans genres, including rock ( Graceland ), blues ( Beale Street) and, of course, country (did you really go to Tennessee if you didn’t go to Dollywood ?). Nashville serves as the halfway point on your journey—so consider penciling in an extra 48 hours to fully explore the state capital’s greatest hits.

• The full itinerary: 5 Great American Road Trips For Music Fans

The stunning coastline near Cueva del Indio has been the backdrop of star-studded films.

Photo by Alexsf.gr/Shutterstock

23. Arecibo to Condado, Puerto Rico: A Lesser-Known Side of a Well-Loved Island

In the minds of many, trips to Puerto Rico bring images of stunning beaches , delicious foods , and maybe a bioluminescent bay or two . But there’s plenty of history to be found here, too, as Puerto Rico was home to an Indigenous population known as the Taino, a heritage many Puerto Ricans embrace. That history can be explored via a road trip. Starting in the northern town of Arecibo, travel south to Ponce, then back north to Condado—along the way you’ll encounter petroglyphs, Indigenous sites, and breathtaking natural spots.

• The full itinerary: A Puerto Rico Road Trip That Puts Indigenous Culture First

Additional road trip planning resources Picking the route for your road trip is only one part of your planning. From what snacks to pack to which podcasts to listen to, these additional resources will help you prepare for your next adventure:

• Best road trip snacks
• Road trip planning apps
• Podcasts and audiobooks to download
• What to pack for a road trip

This article originally appeared online in August 2020. It was most recently updated on April 4, 2024, to include current information. Additional reporting by Jessie Beck, Erika Owen, Ray Rogers, Terry Ward, and Sheryl Nance-Nash.

15 Fantastic and Easy Day Trips From Moscow

Is the hustle and bustle of Moscow starting to wear you down? No worries. There are multiple great day trips from Moscow that will let you see a different side of Russia that you won’t find in the metropolitan area. Each day trip I’ve listed below can easily be done by train from Moscow, and there are trains every day of the week.

The area surrounding Moscow is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, and lines of the sprawling Russian capital. Since Russia is undoubtedly an expansive country it may take from half an hour to two hours to reach some of the landmarks on this list (by train or car) from the Moscow city center.

You can escape to the picturesque Russian countryside, visit war memorials, battlefields, admire onion-domed churches, and get insight into the local way of life. Easy day trips from Moscow include the incomparable white-stone Trinity Cathedral in Sergiyev Posad, the spectacular Cathedral of the Assumption in Dmitrov, and the Russian military aircraft in Monino. For those who love rural tranquility, Suzdal and Vladimir are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Patriotic War of 1812 reenactment that took place in Borodino on the first weekend of September.

Without further ado, here are 15 best day trips from Moscow that are well worth your attention.

The Best Day Trips from Moscow

There’s a reason Moscow is one of Europe’s most enigmatic destinations. It’s got culture, class, food, history, and more, but even better, is that it is the country’s main transport hub with so many attractions within a day trip from Moscow. While you can definitely spend days or even weeks in Moscow, it can, of course, be done in just one week. What can you do in Moscow in seven days ? Well, you can do a lot if you know how to plan a trip to a place you know so little about.

If you’re ready to get out of the city a bit and soak up the culture, fresh air, and enchanting architecture, I’ve rounded up my favorite day trips outside of Moscow. I often get asked: What are the best cities to visit in Russia? And these are places that I’ve been and loved.

My Favorite Easy Day Trips from Moscow:

Dmitrov Kolomna Zvenigorod Sergiyev Posad Yaroslavl Arkhangelskoye Estate Vladimir Suzdal Korolev Borodino Patriot Park in Kubinka Melikhovo Gorki Leninskie Kaluga Monino

1. Day Trip to Dmitrov from Moscow

Dmitrov may not be as popular as other cities in Russia, but the fact that the city was founded only 7 years earlier than Moscow makes for a great day trip. This small city some 90 kilometers from Moscow is particularly beautiful in the summer. As you walk the streets you can see sparkling fountains, charming centuries-old buildings, yachts and boats transiting through the canal and, of course, the Museum-Reserve Dmitrov Kremlin.

The Kremlin (castle) is the city’s main draw. The 10m high and about 1km long earthen rampart remained behind the wooden wall and gives an idea of how the castle looked like 400 years ago. The oldest surviving building on the Kremlin grounds is the 16th-century Assumption Cathedral with a unique five-tier iconostasis.

Not far from the Kremlin there is a compact 15th-century Borisoglebsky convent. Its main building – the 16th-century Cathedral of Sts. Boris and Gleb is open to the visitors only for services of worship. In the 1930s in the convent housed a labor camp, which contained the builders of the Canal named after Moscow.

Getting There: Dmitrov sits an easy hour and sixteen minutes by train from Savyelovskiy Rail Terminal. This cheap day trip from Moscow is a great chance to soak up the historic charm to be found in Moscow Oblast.

2. Day Trip to Kolomna from Moscow

Situated to the south-east of Moscow, Kolomna is a beautiful port city on the Oka River. This is one of the oldest Russian cities in the region. So you can discover the old history in museums and monasteries. Interestingly, the city was a site for important weapon factories under the Soviet Union. Although it was opened up in 1994 Kolomna is not as popular as other day-trip destinations in the region.

Nevertheless, it is a great place to visit with friends and family where you can explore the 15th-century Kremlin made of red brick, try incredibly sweet traditional pastila (marshmallow), and visit some of the cute little churches and 19th-century mansions.

Getting There: Take the express train (commuter line train) from the Kazansky rail terminal to Golutvin station. The trip lasts one hour and forty minutes.

3. Day Trip to Zvenigorod from Moscow

This one is usually a given due to its proximity to and ease of transport from Moscow. It’s one of the easiest day trips from Moscow by train. You can easily hop on the train from the city and land right in the town of Zvenigorod where you can visit the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery and sample the sparkly and refreshing kvass, a Russian specialty beverage that’s enjoyed in the summer months.

Zvenigorod is an adorable little town just under an hour away from the Moscow city and is an amazing place to visit as it will give a relaxing break from the hectic life of Moscow. Check this day trip if you don’t feel like planning.

If you have a sweet tooth, spend some time in the quirky Museum of Russian Desserts, where you can indulge in uniquely delicious treats and explore the intersection of food and culture.

Then you may want to pay the Zvenigorod Museum of History, Architecture, and Art a visit. The museum’s exposition is located on the territory of the Savvino-Storozhevsky monastery, or rather, in the 17th-century Tsaritsyny chambers, built for the wife of Tsar Alexei Mikhailovich. Stroll through the museum halls to view the permanent exhibitions, which offer insights into various aspects of Russian history. The intricate museum’s building is adorned with a decorative porch, complex patterned elements, and looks very impressive in general.

4. Day Trip to Sergiyev Posad from Moscow

If you’re looking for cheap day trips from Moscow, Sergiyev Posad is a good choice at just a few dollar train ride away. Known as a major center of pilgrimage and home to one of the largest Russian Orthodox Monastery which has been here for hundreds of years, Sergiyev Posad is a fun day trip from Moscow and can be combined with Abramtsevo Museum Estate. As the only town in Moscow Region which is included in the Golden Ring of Russian cities, Sergiyev Posad is an incredible destination for a day trip from Moscow that packs UNESCO-protected Trinity Sergius Lavra, great museums, and gorgeous architecture into one day.

Make sure you see the six-pillared Assumption Cathedral that was commissioned by Ivan the Terrible in mid-16th-century and go inside to marvel at the impressive iconostasis that features Simon Ushakov’s masterpiece, the icon of Last Supper. Enjoy a delicious lamb steak with wheat kasha, Ukha fish soup, or hand-made dumplings as you learn a lot about religious and cultural history.

Getting There: Known for its small-town charm and welcoming feel, you can get to Sergiyev Posad by train, by bus, or by car. Trains depart from Yaroslavsky Rail Terminal every thirty minutes, and the trip lasts about an hour and a half. Alternatively, you can hop on a bus at the ‘VDNKh’ metro station. A bus trip to Sergiyev Posad takes two hours on average but can be reached in 90 minutes depending on traffic. If you go by car expect to spend about an hour and a half attempting to traverse the congested Yaroslavskoye highway.

5. Day Trip to Yaroslavl from Moscow

Going from Moscow to Yaroslavl may seem like a really long day trip, but honestly, if you take the comfortable train, it only takes about four hours to reach the city, so making a Yaroslavl day trip is totally doable. Although I do recommend much more than one day in Yaroslavl, especially if it’s your first time.

Cultural tourists visiting Yaroslavl should start their exploration by strolling the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spacious 100-hectare area enclosed by Sobinova and Republican streets is home to most popular attractions – the 17th-century Church of Elijah the Prophet that survived almost exactly in its original form, and in contrast to it, the white stone Assumption Cathedral, restored in the 2000s.

If you walk a bit further passing the Holy Trinity sculpture and city’s foundation stone, you will find yourself at Strelka, a park on the cape, which offers panoramic views of the spot at the confluence of Volga and Kotorosl rivers. On the way back, there is a pleasant walk along the picturesque Volga embankment to the Governor’s Garden with shadowy alleys and an open-air Sculpture museum.

Getting There: Yaroslavl is about 280 km (173 miles) northeast of Moscow, so the best way to get there is to take a morning train from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal. A tour is also a great way to see the Yaroslavl without having to worry about driving or searching for trains. You can book a tour here.

6. Day Trip to Arkhangelskoye Estate from Moscow

Situated on the outskirts of Moscow and dates back to the late 18th-century, Arkhangelskoye Estate was the domain of the nobility for over a century until the Russian Revolution swept people who owned the estate out of the country. The estate was turned into a museum, which it remains today.

The Arkhangelskoye Estate Museum holds the largest rare-book collection. The exhibition also includes old manuscripts, historical documents, photos from the past, a vast collection of sculpture, paintings, engravings, and exceptional examples of decorative art. These art objects once belonged to Prince Nikolai Yusupov, the former owner of the estate.

Arkhangelskoye Estate is often referred to as the Russian version of Versailles because of the intricately manicured garden and beautiful 18th-century park. Famous Russian writers and poets such as Pushkin, Herzen, Mayakovsky loved to spend their free time here making long excursions in the surrounding area. Arkhangelskoye is a perfect place to appreciate the terraces decorated by delightful statues, exquisite vases, and busts.

Visitors can take tours, which introduce them to vibrant examples of Russian art and culture.

Getting There: To reach the estate it’s best to take a bus or a privately-owned minibus that departs from Tushinskaya metro station.

7. Day Trip to Vladimir from Moscow

Situated only two hours east of Moscow, Vladimir is absolutely one of the best places to visit near Moscow for a day trip. This splendid city dates back to the 12th century and has a very rich history. If magnificent Orthodox cathedrals and traditional white-stone architecture entice you, then this place is perfect for a day trip with your significant other.

First things first, you need to see the Golden Gate, which indicates the entrance into the old town. This 12th-century medieval masterpiece of military architecture is associated not only with Vladimir but with the Golden Ring tourist route itself. At the top of the gate, where once was the Church of the Deposition of the Robe, there is the Museum of Weapons. Great looking arrowheads and spear points date back to the Grand Principality of Vladimir, while the exhibition in an impressively majestic setting features a number of Batu-Khan related artifacts.

There’s a variety of attractions to put on your must-see list: the Old Believers Trinity Church right behind it, the Cathedral of St Demetrius, and Dormition (Uspensky) Cathedral. If you plan on shopping for souvenirs like birch-bark masterpieces of Kunov’s masters, drawings, carving, embossing, figures of people and animals, stop by the Lacquer Miniature, the Museum of Crystal, and the Gingerbread Museum. Many of the local attractions were added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites.

Getting There: The best way to visit this area is to catch an early train from Moscow and book a full-day tour of Vladimir in advance. This one includes the town of Suzdal as well.

8. Day Trip to Suzdal from Moscow

This gem of a little medieval town perched on a hill just a 30-minute ride from Vladimir is one of those places I’ve visited and could move there permanently and be happy! It’s a charming little piece of history that also has a Kremlin and visiting it feels like stepping back in time. if you’re a culture enthusiast you’ll be glad to know there are numerous churches, five monasteries, including Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in Suzdal. Check them out if you want to get a real taste of the country!

pend some time shopping at the Torgovaya ploshchad (Market Square), where you can buy baskets made of birch bark, ceramic handmade plates, honey or souvenirs and, of course, grab some afternoon tea!

Getting There: Trains leave regularly from Moscow’s Kurskiy Rail Terminal to Vladimir where you can hop on a bus to Suzdal. You can also take a bus from Moscow. In this case, it might take longer and you’ll probably encounter infamous traffic jams. If you go by express train the trip takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. There are slower trains of course, but I’d recommend going with the fast one and save a lot of time!

9. Day Trip to Korolev from Moscow

Located some 30 kilometers northeast of Moscow, Korolev has become arguably the most important space research center with skilled workers from across the Soviet Union who came here to expand the space program.

It became a leading institute dedicated to aerospace research in the country. Today, that tendency can still be clearly seen on the streets and in the buildings. When the Soviet Union collapsed, the city retained its status as the headquarters of Russia’s space surveillance network and now it hosts the Russian Mission Control Center, an analogue of the American Mission Control Center at NASA’s Space Center in Houston.

If you want to learn more about Mission Control Center and the former Russian Mir space station, book a tour with a knowledgeable guide who can clearly tell the history of this place.

If you’re not into space exploration there is also a Memorial Apartment Museum of Marina Tsvetaeva in Bolshevo. With a picturesque park next to the museum, it’s a great place for walking in the fresh air. The highlight of the park is memorial stones with quotes from Tsvetaeva’s poems.

Getting There: I’d recommend going by train. Catch one at Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal that departs every 30 minutes to reach Bolshevo station.

10. Day Trip to Borodino from Moscow

The historic Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, took place just outside the small village of Borodino, about 140 km west of Moscow, and about 15 km from the nearest town of Mozhaysk. Although the French won the Battle of Borodino and went to capture Moscow, it was one of the bloodiest battles of the pre-twentieth-century that is also predetermined Napoleon’s defeat.

While it was a battlefield back then, not much remains today. It’s mostly a green and grassy field now with a few monuments of military honor, architectural objects dated back to 19th and 20th century, and fortification facilities scattered throughout the area. The largest of these is the 27-meter high obelisk located right at the heart of the former battlefield.

Every year the military and patriotic festival and theatrical performance take place in Borodino. Early September is considered to be the best for visiting. But if you just want to feel the spirit of the battle, it’s better to go at any other time of the year.

Getting there: Hop on a train from the Belorussky rail terminal, disembark in Mozhaysk, and then take a bus to the museum. The whole travel time is about 2 hours.

11. Day Trip to Patriot Park in Kubinka from Moscow

Once a Red Army tank training ground, now it’s a military Disneyland with history, structure, guns, and armored vehicles! The tank museum originally housed one of the world’s largest and rarest collections of tanks. In 2016 they combined the training grounds with the newly-created Patriot Park. Since then, some of the notable and rare items have been moved to the Patriot Park site, so you may want to combine both sites into one tour (only about 20 minutes apart).

The exhibition grounds include some very rare specimens that are must-see for any military enthusiasts out there. The staff is friendly, helpful and kind, while the museum has a small shop. As this site is part of an operating military base, they may ask you to show your passport, or provide them with a photocopy of the front pages. There are vending machines for snacks and drinks, and there are bathroom facilities. There’s plenty to see, so I recommend setting aside an entire day!

Getting there: Situated halfway between Borodino and Moscow, the best way to reach Patriot Park in Kubinka is by car. Alternatively, if you don’t want to rent one, consider car-sharing apps like Gett or UBER. The price of ride-sharing services is cheap enough to make them a viable proposition for choosing them.

12. Day Trip to Melikhovo from Moscow

Located some 80 km from Moscow, Melikhovo is one of the most important museums dedicated to Anton Pavlovich Chekhov. This renowned Russian writer and playwright acquired Melikhovo in 1892. He lived there with his parents and close relatives for 7 years before moving to the Crimea in 1899. Melikhovo is where he wrote his plays “The Man in the Case” and “The Seagull”.

The estate faded into oblivion right after the Revolution but in 1939 Anton Chekhov’s sister Maria and his nephew established a museum based on Chekhov’s place of living. The museum opened its doors to the public in 1941.

Today museum’s exhibition reveals the legacy of a celebrated writer and shows his path not only as a writer but as a doctor and public figure as well. The collection also features some of the best-known paintings by famous artists like Isaac Levitan and Vasily Polenov, who were Chekhov’s friends. When it comes to fun and educational day trips from Moscow, Melikhovo is a nice place for learning more about Chekov’s life and work.

Getting There: You can reach Melikhovo by train from Kurskiy rail Terminal. Disembark in the town of Chekhov and hop on a minibus that will get to the estate. Alternatively, hop on a bus that departs from the Yuzhnaya metro station.

13. Day Trip to Gorki Leninskie from Moscow

Once the realm of Russian nobles, Gorki Leninskie was turned into Lenin’s museum some 25 years after his death. The estate sits some 30-minute bus ride from the Domodedovskaya metro station and houses Soviet-era memorabilia and Lenin’s memorial flat recently transferred from the Kremlin, as well as his vintage Rolls-Royce.

Most people only associate this place with the name of the first communist leader. In fact, the name of the estate was first mentioned in documents dating back to the 16th-century. Throughout its history, the estate was owned by a number of prominent figures. It’s in fact one of the best museums that holds the country’s finest collection 19th-century furnishings and a unique collection of domestic items owned by nobles. Plus, ancient Vyatichi native tribe or East Slavs who inhabited a part of the Oka basin’s burial mounds and a few notable sculptures are hidden behind the avenues of lime trees in the park.

Getting There: You could, of course, hop on a bus from Domodedovskaya metro station. But it would be much easier just to use UBER or Gett. The estate isn’t that far from the Moscow Circle Road but going there by bus may involve some navigating.

14. Day Trip to Kaluga from Moscow

If you’re looking for an educational day trip from Moscow, look no farther than Kaluga! This beautiful city could really entertain you for more than just a day, but to get a taste of science, be sure to visit the Tsiolkovsky State Museum of the History of Cosmonautics. Or in other words, the Space Museum.

Visitors to the museum will learn more about the history of space exploration. In fact, this is one of the largest Space Museums in Russia, which opened its doors in Kaluga in 1967. Here you can see a prototype of the iconic MIR space station and a duplicate of the Voskhod rocket. The very same rocket that took the first man to space. There’s also a planetarium, which from the outside resembles a spaceship.

Kaluga is a totally walkable city. Make sure to spend some time strolling Teatralnaya street with the authentic 19th-century pavement that now marks the Kilometer Zero. Then walk across the 18th-century Kamenniy Most (the Stone Bridge) that somewhat resembles a Roman aqueduct. If you’re an architecture buff marvel at the Church of St. Cosmas and Damian.

It is assumed that the church was erected by one of the followers of Francesco Bartolomeo Rastrelli in 1794. The church resembles the Smolny Convent in St. Petersburg. With five church towers directed upward and six tiers of oblong windows give the exterior a sense of lightness and airiness.

Getting There: Trains from Kiyevsky Rail Terminal to Kaluga leave every 90 minutes. The trip takes about 2 hours and 35 minutes.

15. Day Trip to Monino from Moscow

Are you looking for great family & kid-friendly day trips from Moscow? If so, consider visiting the Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino. This unique military open-air museum is home to over 180 Russian aircraft and 100 aircraft engines and the perfect place to go when your crowd is looking for a break from hectic city life. Check this tour if you don’t feel like planning.

This site was formerly an operational airbase from 1932 till 1956 and many of the Russian aviation Design bureaus have made a contribution to the operation and maintenance of the museum. Along with aircraft from the Second World War, there are the TU-95 Bear four-engine turboprop-powered strategic bomber and the TU-144 Charger a Soviet supersonic passenger airliner (which resembled the Concorde). The museum also has exhibits related to military aviation history such as the uniform of captured U2 pilot Gary Powers.

Getting There: This museum is located at Monino Town, about 30 km from Moscow. It is open on all days from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, except Mondays and Tuesdays. To get there take a train departing from Yaroslavskiy Rail Terminal and disembark at Monino station. Alternatively, hop on a bus from Schelkovskaya or Partizanskaya metro station.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips from Moscow

I hope this post has helped you discover some amazing day trips from Moscow. From imposing cathedrals, mighty fortresses and monasteries, there are a lot of incredible places to visit the Russian capital, and the best part is that getting there is always ways to get around on the cheap.

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Great article for visitors in Moscow , thanks for sharing

Marie Hernandez

I hadn’t considered traveling to Moscow until NOW! Fantastic post and ideas for visitors! Thanks!

Graham Marsden

Nice to see so many options outside of Moscow, but I have to say I wish this list had a recommendation for a hike or a beautiful natural areas or national parks. Maybe the next list!

I have to admit that I knew nothing about the area surrounding Moscow. This is definitely an inspiring list of places to go.

When I read this article about Moscow. I wanted to pack my bags and get there sooner. thank you for the great write up.

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15 Fun Weekend Getaways in Idaho to Take in 2024

Idaho is a beautiful state to explore, and there’s nothing like booking a vacation to visit a new area. There are so many weekend getaways in Idaho to go on, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly place to take your kids or a couple’s getaway to a more secluded area.

I’ve been visiting Idaho as a weekend trip away from Seattle since I was in elementary school, but there are still so many parts I want to go to. I always make sure to stop here when I do a cross-country road trip, such as my Seattle to Yellowstone road trip .

That’s why I started this list to share some of the best Idaho weekend getaways you can start planning for your own vacation. Whether you want an adventure-filled getaway or a quiet weekend to relax, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Table of Contents

Tips for Planning an Idaho Weekend Getaway

Here are a few tips to make your vacation easier:

• Book your hotels in advance – Some of the places on this list are small, which means the accommodation there will fill up quickly. Idaho is a popular place to visit both with locals and tourists during the summertime, so book your hotels at least several months in advance.
• Prepare if you don’t have service – Larger cities like Boise have no problem with cell service, but some of the more remote getaways might have no or spotty service. I recommend downloading a map on your phone in advance so you don’t suddenly lose the directions to your accommodation.
• Check in advance for closures or special hours – Many businesses have closed over the past two years or significantly reduced their hours due to staff shortages, so double-check the places on your itinerary first so you won’t be disappointed.
• Confirm places are pet-friendly – Many people like myself have dogs they like to vacation with, so confirm that your accommodation is a pet-friendly PNW vacation so there are no surprises.

Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so  click here  to buy your copy!

15 Weekend Getaways in Idaho to Plan For Your Next Escape

There are quite a few stunning locations in Idaho. Whether you’re looking for ski resorts, lakeside holidays, or the ultimate in luxury for you and your travel team, it’ll be here. Keep reading to find 15 of the best destinations for weekend getaways in Idaho. 

1. Sandpoint

If you’re looking for cheap weekend getaways in Idaho with a touch of luxury and all the leisure, Sandpoint is a great place to start. This beautiful location rests on Lake Pend Oreille and is a fitting location for couples, solo campers, and everything in between. This city is ideal if you want a long road trip from Seattle .

Imagine waking up with views of the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains as well as a couple of delightful natural attractions that make each season worth the visit. 

Spend your weekend rocking the 70 rides and slides at Silverwood Theme Park or be slightly more mature at the Arts and Crafts Fair or the Northwest Wine Fair. You can also enjoy a good biking trail to pump those heart muscles. 

Regardless of your favorite things to do, there are options for everyone on one of the most adventurous Idaho weekend getaways, whether you love shopping, fishing, hiking, biking, camping, glamping, skiing, museums, etc. 

Where to Stay

• Best Western Edgewater Resort: This gorgeous resort offers galore amenities with an on-site restaurant just one minute away from the beachfront. Rates start at $240 per night.  
• Cedar Street Hotel & Suites : This hotel is perfect for daytime fun and nights spent with a cocktail in hand around the corner from Lake Pend Oreille. Rates start from $114 per night. 

Whether it’s a honeymoon skiing throughout the day or fun family games around a fire, you’re in luck regardless of your ideal vacation. 

Wallace is located in the Idaho panhandle and is best known as the mining town with the most silver – or the center of the universe, depending on your social circles. Statistically, it is the largest silver producer in the USA. 

However, the center of the universe claim is slightly less factual, despite the manhole cover that celebrates it. In 2004, the mayor dubbed Wallace the center of the universe “because it can’t be proven not to be”. 

While this place displays some whimsy, it is an excellent location for adventures like the Sierra Silver Mine Tours, Silver Streak Zipline, and a dip into the Pulaski Tunnel Trail. Walk through the Mining Museum or Oasis Bordello Museum for a simpler stay.

Fun fact – if the town looks familiar, it’s because they filmed the 1997 movie Dante’s Peak here, which I was so excited to find out about (one of my favorite movies when I was younger!). You can walk around to see recognizable parts, making it one of the best things to do in the Pacific Northwest for movie lovers.

• Wallace Inn: Wallace Inn is close to Lookout Pass and Silver Mountain Ski Resort, making this a comfortable location for all skiers. Rates start at $103 per night.  
• FairBridge Inn & Suites Kellogg : An indoor pool and comfortably furnished rooms are necessary to make you feel at home. Rates start at $115 per night. 

McCall is an excellent location for just about anything. While it is relatively common amongst couples for obvious reasons, it is also a spectacular place to attempt or master as many outdoor activities as possible. 

Situated around the corner of Lake Payette, there are tons of water activities to explore. You could also settle into the hot springs for a refreshing dip or explore more of the Ponderosa State Park. 

There’s a winter carnival for those lucky enough to be there in the wintertime and a ski park at Brundage Mountain Resort. 

This old logging town has the highest snowfall average in the state – so why not try your hand at skiing while you’re there. If you’re looking for some more adventure, you can head out to the outdoor recreation center, as it’s perfect for adventure enthusiasts.  

• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites McCall : The Hunt Lodge, an IHG Hotel: A hotel right by the beach and Ponderosa State Park. Rates start at $200 per night. 
• Third Street Inn : 3 Star hotel with hot tub, indoor pool, and a great location. Rates start at $130 per night. 

4. Coeur d’Alene

As far as getaways, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, is possibly one of the most luxurious places out there. With the Coeur d’Alene Resort right there, a range of trails and lake cruises, what better place to take your friends and family out to? The area is also one of the most romantic getaways in Idaho, and many people include the city on their road trip around the PNW .

Head over to the Coeur d’Alene Resort for a day of golf, spa treatments, and a dip in the infinity pool. The resort is the biggest drawcard in this region; the area itself has tons on offer. 

You can head out to the Museum of North Idaho, jet off to trails in Canfield Mountain, or find the trailhead to Tubbs Hill and spend the day exploring. 

This beautiful region offers a little bit more as well, with nightlife scenes featuring good music, live bands, casino games, and even brewery tours to try out the latest in craft beers. 

• Coeur D’Alene Casino Resort Hotel : This beautiful resort with on-site restaurants, a casino, and a golf course is for anyone that doesn’t want to lift a finger. Rates start at $100 per night. 
• Comfort Inn & Suites I-90 City Center : Here, you’ve got all the necessary amenities to ensure that you’re comfortable while being close to many major attractions.  Rates start at $120 per night.

5. Sun Valley

There are a couple of unique places to stay in Idaho, like the Kentwood Lodge or Wood River Inn. Each offers all the amenities needed to enjoy a comfortable stay in Sun Valley. 

This resort town is best known for areas like Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain, where skiing is the order of the day. But, luckily, it is not all you can get up to here. 

Is it the soft white snow that you are after? You can try snowshoeing, watch a couple of ice shows, or ski. But on the off chance that you’re there with minimal snowfall, you can also try your hand at fly fishing, tennis, horse-riding, and bowling. 

Regardless of what you’re looking for, there are activities for everyone, and it covers a little bit of everything. Sun Valley is the ideal location for a weekend getaway if a range of activities is what you’re after – the more to do, the better. 

• Best Western Plus Kentwood Lodge : This traditionally styled and comfortable lodging is about seven minutes from KetchamTown. Rates start at $260 per night.  
• Wood River Inn & Suite : Modernity and old-school comfort come to order at this quaint Inn. Rates start at $138 per night. 

6. Fish Haven

If you’re especially fond of nature and love seeing conservation in practice, Fish Haven is a special place to be for Idaho weekend trips. It was initially named Rush Creek, but the loving local community renamed it. While this isn’t the most prominent scene for extreme sports and adventure, it is an idyllic and surreal location for everyday bird watchers. 

For a cheap weekend getaway, spend your time marveling at the bluer than blue waters of Bear Lake. Trot about the gift shops such as The Jailhouse or explore Minnetonka’s mysterious caves and caverns. You can also get teed up for a round of golf and learn as much as you can from the history museums. 

The bird watching, scenery, and regular hiking trails make this location ideal for explorers. The curious mind will find tons to satiate as you tread through the science behind the incredibly blue lake or go biking between the bushes. 

• The Bluebird Inn : Wake up to beautiful views entangled in comfy sheets, and kick start your day with a healthy breakfast at this welcoming inn.

This unique location is at the heart of Nez Perce Indian Reservation and is surrounded by mountains, rivers, trees, and just about covers your daily dose of nature. Like many small towns, it is a gorgeous, welcoming place to be with a ton of friendly locals to help you out as you go along. 

You can spend the day cruising along an ATV/UTV trail on land or explore the location by boat. Between hunting, hiking, and fishing, you’ll have a jam-packed weekend with a mixture of serenity and fun. It’s also ideal for couples looking for romantic getaways in Idaho.

As you fall in love with the small-town charm, don’t forget to check out some of the other locations within Clearwater County. Head out to Weippe, Pierce, or Elk River for some extra added fun. 

As you can imagine, the biggest drawcard in this part of Idaho is the sense of community. Since there are so many activities and events happening in and around the county, you may want to check in advance for particular events and festivities happening in the area. 

This location makes for some of the best romantic cabin getaways in Idaho, so it’s a great spot to take your significant other. 

• Best Western Lodge at River’s Edge : Guests can enjoy the usual creature comforts, an indoor pool, and spectacular river views. Rates start at $130 per night.

Athol is for you if you’re particularly fond of serenity, silence, and general rural and raw nature when deciding on weekend trips in Idaho. Athol is an old historic city that makes for a fun spot for unique weekend getaways. 

Here, you’re a stone’s throw away from state parks like Round Lake and Farragut – each of which is unique in its own way. Explore Farrugat’s camping options or the 40-mile hiking trail, or head to Round Lake for some fishing fun.

Athol is at the southern end of Lake Pend Oreille and is covered in farms and forests. The location is perfect for a quiet, undisturbed hideaway from the hustle of big city life. When you’ve had enough peace and solitude, you can always head over to the Silverwood Theme Park for a little bit of adrenaline.   

Athol has a unique history, too, although the natural beauty of it all is far more enticing. 

• Cedar Mountain Farm Bed and Breakfast LLC : This cozy spot is perfect for old-school, log cabin-style housing.  Rates start at $260 per night.
• New Athol Motel: This motel in Athol offers mountain views and lakeside living for affordable prices without compromising comfort.  Rates start at $113 per night.

Victor is the largest city in the country of Teton, and you’ll be blissfully renewed by the clean air. Since most of this space is covered in National Forests, you’d be delighted to know that there are trails upon trails available for you to explore during one of the more outdoorsy weekend getaways in Idaho.

Some fun places to stay in Idaho are either blanketed in snow or water, and this specific location is swathed by indigenous wildflowers and wildlife alike. Choose your favorite way to explore, whether it be via bike, by foot, or on horseback, and enjoy everything the Grand Teton National Park (with its many Grand Teton hikes ) and Yellowstone have to provide. 

While you’re there, you’ve got to try out some of the delicious delights from restaurants like Victor Emporium or Big Hole BBQ Victor. Start your day with a Gingerbread French Toast from Butter Cafe and end it with Knotty Pine’s all-American beef burger. 

• Cobblestone Hotel & Suites features an indoor swimming pool, fitness center, and everything you need to feel at home.  Rates start at $290 per night.
• Teton Valley Motel : This motel includes the basic amenities for on-the-go travelers.  Rates start at around $140 per night

10. Meridian

Not everybody is lucky enough to have a getaway without kids or without having to check in at the office over the weekend. If you’re looking for a Pacific Northwest kid-friendly vacation that allows you to work and spend time with your family and an opportunity to stay in touch with work, Meridian, Idaho, has all fronts covered. 

While this may not be a cheap weekend getaway, it can still be one of the best weekend getaways in Idaho. Meridian is known as the second-largest city in Idaho (after Boise). Here, you’ll find some excellent water parks and kids’ activities that will have them excited.  

The family can focus on the Roaring Springs Water Park and Wahooz Family Fun Zone. There are also children’s museums in case of inclement weather or the Boise River Greenbelt for the adventurous clan. 

• Courtyard by Marriott Boise West/Meridian is decked out with southwestern decor and the facilities you need to work from home while maintaining the appropriate holiday vibe after stepping away from the desk. Rates start from around $189 per night. 
• Hampton Inn & Suites Boise-Meridian : Lavish, luxe, and worth all of the big bucks. Possesses the ideal business luxury environment.  Rates start from around $200 per night

11. Twin Falls

A Twin Falls vacation is one of the best weekend getaways from Boise when you want stunning views. Here, you’re delighted by views from every angle and a wide range of places to pop the question or take adoring pictures of you and your beau in Instagram-worthy positions. 

Not only can you check out places like Snake River Canyon and Perrine Bridge, but you’re also privy to some exciting opportunities to explore Sawtooth National Forest. Whatever location you choose to do first, there are options on how to go about it – as usual, hiking, biking, and horseback seem to be the fan-favorite. 

Twin Falls is a lovely spot for families and adrenaline junkies as well. Alongside the natural romantic atmosphere, there’s a daredevil nature to be explored as well. 

If you’re looking for an adrenaline boost, the Shoshone falls are the ideal location to try (or witness) BASE jumping . Since BASE jumping is illegal in US National Parks, your opportunities are pretty limited, but this is one location that seems pretty worth it. 

• Holiday Inn Twin Falls : The Twin Falls Holiday Inn is ideal for busy travelers and has a business center and laundromat available.  Rates start at $214 per night .
• La Quinta by Wyndham Twin Falls : Ideally located, wonderfully decorated, and affordably priced, the La Quinta hotel offers guests an excellent place for luxury and romance.  Rates start at $322 per night .

Rigby is one of those unassuming little towns that doesn’t seem to offer much but packs a punch. While you’re here, you could stop by the Yellowstone RV Park or visit the Jefferson County Lake and golf course. 

Rigby is surrounded by lakes and trees and makes for a beautiful nature retreat, which makes a great place to unplug, unwind, and meditate – if that’s what you’re after. Most people prefer to jet off to Idaho Falls as well. Since it is pretty centered, traveling around this quaint town isn’t too tricky. 

• Motel 6 Rigby: It’s close to Idaho Falls and other wonderful locations like Lexburg, Lorenzo, and Idaho Falls Regional Airport. Rates start at around $53 per night. 

Boise is by far the most popular in all of Idaho when it comes to Idaho weekend getaways. Whether you’re keen to try out the Bogus Basin or check out some of the Art Museums, there is something here for everyone. Its diverse cultural contributions like the Basque community, regular Shakespearian plays, and contemporary art exhibitions add a unique experience. 

Why not take your partner through various hiking trails or even to Hell’s Canyon. Grab a light picnic and take in the beautiful imagery from the waterfall cascading down. This is also a popular long weekend getaway from Portland .

Check out the World Center for Birds of Prey, take part in a Boise scavenger hunt, and explore most of the city excitingly and uniquely. You’ll spot places like the Old Idaho Penitentiary, Freak Alley Gallery, and maybe the Idaho State Capitol Building.  

• Red Lion Inn & Suites Boise: The Red Lion Inn is just around the corner from the airport and provides airport shuttle services for weekend getaways from Boise. Rates start at $160 per night. 
• Hyatt Place Boise/Downtown: If you’re hoping for a little bit more luxury, Hyatt Place is ideal. Rates start at $239 per night.

14. Cascade

There are very few affordable hotel getaways as wonderful as Cascade, Idaho. You’re close to the very best amenities and facilities in this quaint town for one of the more affordable weekend getaways in Idaho.

The biggest drawcard is the Lake Cascade State Park, where you can explore campgrounds and a couple of bodies of water. If you’re looking for something slightly more adventurous, try the Payette River Flier. 

Either way, this rural city of Cascade offers travelers four seasons’ worth of beauty, fun, and activities worthy of your weekend getaway. You can try mountain climbing or kayaking in summer or explore the natural hot springs in Fall.

Winter offers sleigh rides and tubing, while spring is perfect for mushroom foraging. 

• The Ashley Inn : This beautiful inn is especially ideal in location, especially if you’re looking to be near the best activities like golf courses and parks. Rooms are available from $169 per night. 

15. Fort Hall

Fort Hall is best known for the casino but wows visitors in other regards as well. Here you can expect to level up your cultural knowledge and history at the Shoshone Tribal museum. Or take some time to fish for your wellness at the Portneuf Wellness Complex. 

You can also check out the Pocatello Idaho Temple if you enjoy architecture. Once all of that is done, you can head back to the casino and check out some live shows and fascinating entertainment. 

If you love clear skies, open roads, and a handful of fun activities immersed in nature, Fort Hall is an excellent addition to your bucket list. 

• Shoshone Bannock Casino Hotel : Live in leisure and style with the traditional casino-style rooms. Book your rooms early in advance as they tend to have wonderful specials and discount opportunities throughout the month. 

Which one of these weekend getaways in Idaho are you most excited to go on?

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

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15 Best Weekend Getaways in North Carolina, According to Locals

F rom quaint towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains to relaxed beaches and bustling cities, these are the best places to visit in North Carolina for a quick trip.

Not all vacations need to be extended, expensive trips. Sometimes, a simple weekend getaway — in the form of a cozy mountain retreat, a couple of days at the beach, or a whirlwind city escape — is the perfect way to satisfy a travel itch. While there are numerous East Coast destinations to choose from, it’s sometimes easier to first narrow down the search; in this case, to North Carolina, a state with a wide range of fun, fulfilling places to explore. 

“North Carolina is a really interesting, diverse state with sub-locations that are almost entities in and of themselves,” says Tiffany M. Griffin, co-owner and co-founder of Bright Black , a Durham-based retail shop. “The mountain ranges are some of the best on the East Coast (and in the country), the Outer Banks have some of the best beaches in the country, the cities are walkable and all [have] their own vibe, and the food rivals some of the best in the country.”  

The state’s coastal towns — Beaufort and Emerald Isle, to name a few — frequently appeal to those searching for relaxation mixed with adventure. Others, like Matthew Weinstein, the executive chef of Oak Steakhouse in Highlands, find themselves drawn to the mountains. “Whenever I think of a weekend getaway, the first place that comes to mind is Western North Carolina… I think about hiking and camping, but I also love getting a cabin rental and disappearing into the woods,” he explains. No matter where you choose to spend your weekend, though, Griffin suggests bringing an open mind: “When you visit, don't come in with preconceived notions of ‘the South,’ because I guarantee North Carolina will not fit into any of them. It's a state difficult to describe and best experienced in real life.” 

Ready to plan a quick trip? Keep reading to discover some of the best weekend getaways in North Carolina, according to locals. 

Related: 25 Best Places to Visit in North Carolina — Including a Scenic Parkway, Buzzy Cities, and the Most-visited National Park

For what chef Weinstein calls “small city mountain charm,” book a flight to Asheville Regional Airport. He recommends staying at the Grand Bohemian Hotel , which is in close proximity to the famed Biltmore Estate, and grabbing a meal at Cúrate , Corner Kitchen , or Buxton Hall Barbecue . While Asheville is one of the most popular spots for seeing fall foliage, it also offers year-round access to some of the best hiking trails and waterfalls in the region. 

Black Mountain

“I like to think of Black Mountain as Asheville's chiller cousin,” says Griffin. “It has the mountain vibes without the crowds. It's a bit more quaint. A bit more diverse. A bit more affordable. And if you really need a fix of the bustle of Asheville, it's only 20 minutes away.” When planning your weekend itinerary, she recommends leaving room for trips to Dripolator for coffee and Blue Ridge Biscuit Company , where you’ll find “one of the best biscuits in Western North Carolina.”

Emerald Isle

Julia Wax, a North Carolina native and the owner of Emerald Isle Realty , may call this beach town home, but she also thinks of Emerald Isle as a great weekend getaway. “Its naturally slower pace of life and…stunning crystal-clear ocean waters never cease to captivate me, even after many years of living here,” she says. If travelers are seeking peace and quiet, they’ll find it. “Our beaches are never crowded, and the serenity is complemented by the ocean’s glistening, vibrant emerald-green hues,” she explains. And, she adds, those who want adventure will find “world-class kitesurfing, deep-sea fishing, and surfing.”

Named Travel + Leisure ’s best mountain town of 2023, Highlands offers lots of charm and pockets of luxury — all within driving distance of major cities like Atlanta, Nashville, and Charlotte. For a particularly romantic trip, book a suite at Old Edwards Inn & Spa , or steal away to the cozy Highlander Mountain House or mountaintop retreat Skyline Lodge . You could easily spend an entire day waterfall spotting, though many of the natural features are just a few minutes from downtown. As far as places to eat, chef Weinstein praises both Ristorante Paoletti and Wolfgang’s Restaurant & Wine Bistro .

Durham is a hot spot for both culinary feats and historical importance. To experience as much of the city as possible, come hungry and prepared to cover a lot of ground. Griffin recommends Saltbox Seafood Joint , coffee at Cocoa Cinnamon , Pincho Loco for ice cream and paletas, and Rose's Noodles, Dumplings & Sweets , what she calls “Durham's best bakery.” In between meals, Durham is your oyster. “Downtown Durham is fun and bustling, but there's so much more to the city. Check out historic neighborhoods like Hayti, Lakewood, the old West End, and others. Parking is also better when you leave downtown,” she says. For more family-friendly activities, check out Duke Gardens , Nasher Museum of Art , and the Museum of Life and Science .

Lake Norman

Spending a weekend lakeside is often the antidote to a stressful workweek and everyday life. Lake Norman, the state’s largest human-made body of fresh water, is located just north of Charlotte, making it convenient for quick trips from the city. Bring your friends or family, and enjoy all kinds of leisurely, water-based activities like fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking. There are a few hotels surrounding the lake, but your best bet will be a rental property, like an Airbnb or Vrbo . 

When you want a bit of sand and saltwater, but don’t quite have enough PTO to make it to the Outer Banks, Griffin suggests planning a weekend in Wilmington, where Kure Beach, Airlie Gardens , and the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher provide entertainment for travelers of all ages. Education is also an important aspect of exploring the city. “Take a Black history tour or, at the very least, read about the Black history of Wilmington. The Wilmington massacre, in particular, is a painful, bleak moment in North Carolina and U.S. history, but to prevent this from ever happening again, we must equip ourselves with a deep understanding of history,” she explains.

Bryson City

“One of my favorite places in Western North Carolina is Bryson City,” says chef Weinstein. Known as the “gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park,“ this small town is the ideal jumping-off point for a weekend filled with fresh air and heart-pumping activities. Or, he notes, you can hop on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad . “The railroad has some great tours of the region and different packages to choose from,” he says. The Raft & Rail , for example, is a full-day guided tour that includes a scenic train trip, lunch, and a whitewater trip on the Nantahala River. 

For a weekend getaway where golf is the priority, Pinehurst — home to the legendary Pinehurst No. 2 course — is the place to go. Start the trip by checking into The Jefferson Inn , a 14-room property in the downtown Southern Pines Historic District (just a short drive to Pinehurst). The Pinehurst area has more than 40 courses, but leave time for a bit of exploring, too. When you’re not working on your game, have breakfast at the Pinehurst Track Restaurant or browse the shelves at The Country Bookshop .

“Forty-five minutes from the [Research] Triangle, Greensboro is a great place to visit for a day or the weekend. There's a ton of history, it's super down to earth, and it's close to a few other fun areas to visit, like High Point and Winston-Salem,” says Griffin. Book a couple of nights at O.Henry Hotel or The Historic Magnolia House — where she praises the Sunday brunch — and pencil in time at the Greensboro Science Center and International Civil Rights Center & Museum , which highlights the city’s sit-ins during the Civil Rights Movement.

Don’t confuse Beaufort for the South Carolina town of the same name ; they’re pronounced differently — it’s “bow-fert” in North Carolina — and have different personalities and reasons to visit. “Walking the historic streets of Beaufort is like stepping back in time,” says Wax. “My day typically begins with a visit to the local coffee bar, Cru , a cherished morning tradition among Beaufort residents; by night, it transforms into a lively wine bar. Down by the waterfront, admire the 100-foot yachts and sailboats lining the shore, all while enjoying a refreshing beverage at one of my favorite ‘watering holes,’ the Rhumbar ,” she shares. 

“Uniquely located about equidistant from Charlotte and the Triangle, Asheboro is home to the North Carolina Zoo , a suite of Getaway tiny homes , and some yummy food options,” says Griffin. It could easily be experienced as a day trip from the surrounding larger cities, but the 27,000-person destination also has plenty of sights and events to entertain travelers of all ages. After a long day at the zoo, where Griffin says you’ll “easily rack up 15,000 steps,” pop into her favorite restaurant, Cantina Taco Loco , for a “down-to-earth” setting with “good food [and] good drinks.”

“I’d strongly advise dedicating some of your time to the enchanting Down East Carteret County, a well-kept secret nestled on the Crystal Coast,” says Wax. Down East refers to several waterfront communities in the county — including Bettie, Straits, Harkers Island, Gloucester, and Smyrna — and each embraces a slower way of life. “Here, you’ll immerse yourself in the enduring spirit of village life, a living legacy of generations sustained by the art of commercial fishing. For a deeper connection to our regional heritage, a visit to the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center is a must; it’s an authentic portal to our history.”

Robbinsville

For the type of weekend getaway where you can “disappear and disconnect from the stress of everyday life,” chef Weinstein suggests Robbinsville. “Robbinsville has a lot of good hiking trails and campsites to explore. You can also do some great stargazing in this area,” he says. If you prefer hotels to tents, consider staying at the all-inclusive resort Snowbird Mountain Lodge . No matter where you choose to lay your head for the night, though, he says travelers should be cognizant of local wildlife: “Be prepared to see bears, and make sure not to keep any food in your car.”

Morehead City

North Carolina has its fair share of coastal towns — making it hard to choose just one to visit for a few days — but Wax recommends adding Morehead City to your list. “Over in Morehead City, the waterfront offers a front-row seat to the arrival of deep-sea charter fishing boats,” says Wax. “You’ll see sun-kissed, contented fishermen displaying their day’s catch with pride as they pull up to the docks.” If that doesn’t convince you to come for the weekend, the food might. “Just a few steps away, you can savor the freshest oysters, shrimp, crabmeat, or grouper at nearby restaurants like Full Circle Café , Southern Salt , or Jack’s Waterfront Bar . It’s not just a meal; it’s a culinary journey that’ll make your taste buds dance with pure delight.”

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Best weekend getaways in the midwest.

Twelve states make up America's Midwest, known for its friendly people and rolling fields filled with crops like corn and soybeans. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns, scenic escapes on the Great Lakes and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. U.S. News considered factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Use this list to plan your next adventure, then weigh in by voting for your favorite location below.

Mackinac Island

Wisconsin dells, black hills national forest, lake of the ozarks, traverse city, madison, wi, kansas city, minneapolis - st. paul, hocking hills state park, door county, voyageurs national park.

Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. The island is unique in that there are no cars or chain hotels – instead, horse-drawn carriages, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and family-owned hotels are the norm – so travelers can truly embrace the Lake Huron destination's small-town charm. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. What's more, Mackinac Island offers a variety of eateries serving everything from American comfort classics to its famous fudge.

The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. Because many of the top-notch water parks offer indoor pools and slides, they remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple resorts , golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes.

As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, the Windy City is a popular option for a weekend getaway. Chicago houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches or iconic sculptures like "The Bean." Plus, the city boasts incredible architecture, which is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan, and is a haven for foodies thanks to its smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine, ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish. No weekend trip would be complete without visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. The small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness and is a haven for outdoorsy types. In the Black Hills, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. The Black Hills is also famous for housing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents. If you don't want to camp during your visit, plan on staying in Rapid City, the closest major city to the Black Hills.

By impounding the Osage River, the state of Missouri created the Lake of the Ozarks, an expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline. Plan on spending most of your time at this central Missouri lake destination on or around the water. Rent a boat to explore and access waterfront spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave and various restaurants and resorts. When you need a break from the water, hit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail.

This Minnesota city on the shores of Lake Superior is ideal for a weekend getaway. In the Canal Park area, visitors can bike or walk along the Lakewalk, a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, snap pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge and peruse local art galleries. Travelers can also experience the city's finer features by touring all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or booking a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. What's more, refreshments are easy to come by with Duluth's selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

With attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha is a solid choice for a family trip. But this Nebraska hub appeals to all travelers with its history (best showcased at The Durham Museum), nature attractions (like the Lauritzen Gardens botanical center) and a thriving arts community (including interactive performing arts venues). Omaha also features a noteworthy food scene, with neighborhoods like the Blackstone District, home of the Reuben sandwich, and venues ranging from old-school steakhouses to award-winning sushi establishments.

Located in the northern section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City's offerings are mostly dictated by its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This impressive protected area stretches 64 miles along Lake Michigan's coast and sits about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City, providing visitors countless opportunities to camp, hike, sunbathe and more. Closer to town, travelers can explore Grand Traverse Bay or one of the region's lakes via kayak or canoe. Adults also appreciate Traverse City's selection of wineries and microbreweries, while families enjoy visiting museums like The Music House Museum, which showcases rare organs and pianos.

Wisconsin's capital city is where you'll find the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin. The university plays a significant part in the city's cultural offerings by way of on-campus sights like Memorial Union, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum and the Chazen Museum of Art. Still, the city offers its own share of noteworthy attractions, including the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Henry Vilas Zoo and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, Madison provides easy access to multiple hiking trails and features a fun downtown area where you can grab dinner, listen to live music and people watch.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Iowa's capital has a lot going for it. Situated in the center of a state known for its farming, Des Moines offers true farm-to-table cuisine, as well as the much-lauded Downtown Farmers' Market with 300-plus vendors. Meanwhile, boutiques abound in the quaint East Village district, and bikers can pedal their way along more than 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail, which crosses a 13-story bridge. Visit in the summer to make the most of your time outdoors and to take advantage of events like the 80/35 music festival.

Milwaukee's hearty comfort food and eclectic collection of museums and historical sites are sure to appeal to all kinds of weekend visitors. The city's foremost museums are the Harley-Davidson Museum, which spans 20 acres along the riverfront, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which boasts three futuristic-looking buildings and a collection with more than 30,000 pieces. Beer and history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the 19th-century Pabst Mansion or the Lakefront Brewery, while foodies will want to swing by the Milwaukee Public Market to purchase or learn how to cook a memorable meal (just don't skip the cheese curds).

Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. Many of Cincinnati's top parks, including 186-acre Eden Park, overlook the river, providing countless opportunities for scenic strolls. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Music Hall.

The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over St. Louis and marks the city's status as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. Head to Forest Park to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum and the renowned Saint Louis Zoo , neither of which charges an entry fee. Then, take a tour of some of St. Louis' noteworthy historical sights, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Kansas City straddles the border of Missouri and Kansas, putting the surprisingly trendy city within driving distance of a number of Midwestern destinations. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Kansas City's Country Club Plaza – which offers an assortment of eateries and stores, and sits within walking distance of a number of hotels – is also worth checking out. Remember to set aside time for perusing some of the city's top museums, too, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. Travelers can spend the weekend perusing the exhibits at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, attending productions at the Guthrie Theater or getting a dose of local history at sights like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center. On warm, sunny days, visitors will also want to take advantage of Minnesota's natural beauty by going for a stroll through the Chain of Lakes byway district or Minnehaha Regional Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas.

Thrill-seekers flock to this Ohio destination on Lake Erie for its world-class amusement park – Cedar Point. The park's 70 rides, including a whopping 18 roller coasters, are its main draw, but the sprawling water park and entertainment options also impress travelers of all ages. Beyond the mega-park, this coastal town also boasts family-owned dining venues and the Ohio Cheers Trail, which highlights local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Plus, cruises to the neighboring islands of Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are an ideal way to slow things down after an action-packed day.

Less than an hour's drive from Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect nature-filled weekend escape. Hocking Hills State Park's deep gorges, sandstone cliffs and leafy forests are beautiful in any season – whether dotted with wildflowers in the spring or covered with ice formations in winter. Travelers can hike to popular spots like the Ash Cave and Cedar Falls, climb the park's natural rock walls or kayak and canoe on lakes and rivers. Plus, with modern A-frames and trendy cabins to rent in the surrounding area, you'll have all the comforts of home on your getaway.   

Whether you're seeking natural splendor, villages full of character or a weekend of sampling some of the Midwest's finest cuisine, Door County, Wisconsin, will deliver. Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan about 70 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County boasts 300 miles of shoreline and countless parks that add up to 23,000 acres. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, explore the art galleries, lighthouses and museums in communities like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay. Don’t miss out on the region's must-try food experiences: cherry picking, cheese tasting and dining at a traditional Wisconsin supper club.

Within comfortable driving distance of Chicago, Milwaukee and Cedar Rapids, this northwest Illinois town is a top option for an old-fashioned Midwestern weekend getaway. Galena is full of small-town charm, with bespoke experiences like antique tractor driving and carving workshops, historical sites like the home of Ulysses S. Grant and a Hallmark-worthy Main Street. Plus, the surrounding region offers bucolic rolling hills, antique shops, wineries, farms and 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts. With events throughout the year (including the popular Great Galena Balloon Race in June), as well as seasonal skiing, Galena is a great getaway any time of year.

To make the most of your weekend, you'll want to hit the road early to get to this harder-to-reach Minnesota destination (about 300 miles north of Minneapolis on the Canadian border). Most of Voyageurs National Park, which is characterized by calm lakes, aromatic evergreens and granite cliffs, is only accessible by boat, meaning you'll be fully immersed in its natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, rent a houseboat for a unique lodging option. But colder seasons have their charms, too. Since the park is a phenomenal place to see the northern lights , the sky may just put on a show for you as the nights get longer. 

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Storm Kathleen: Scotland braces for flooding and travel disruption

Flood and wind warnings remain in place, with Sepa warning of ‘real danger to life’ on coastal roads and paths

Scotland will continue to face the threat of power cuts and travel disruption as high winds and heavy rain from Storm Kathleen persist into Sunday.

The Scottish Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) has 18 regional flood alerts and 43 flood warnings in place in Scotland. They have been in force since Saturday.

The Met Office has also issued a new yellow wind warning from 9am on Sunday covering parts of the east and northern Highlands, the Isle of Skye and the Hebrides. It will remain in force until 3pm.

Winds as high as 73mph were recorded in Drumalbin, South Lanarkshire.

A previous warning stretched from the Scottish Borders to just south of Stirling. It spanned the west coast, throughout much of central Scotland, and ended just short of the east coast.

Vincent Fitzsimons, Sepa’s flood duty manager, said: “Across the weekend, Scotland is braced for impacts from Storm Kathleen including very high winds and coastal flooding in western areas.

“Flooding impacts are expected across western coastal areas throughout the weekend. Impacts start in the Solway coast and Firth of Clyde on Saturday and then move around the coast to the eastern side of the country over the next few days.

“Of particular concern is the likely impact to communities in the Western Isles and Orkney late Saturday and across Sunday.

“On top of already high tides, Kathleen will bring a storm surge and large waves. This combination is particularly dangerous, especially around high tides. There is real danger to life from wave overtopping, particularly around causeways, coastal roads and paths.

“Disruption to travel and infrastructure is possible, as is isolated flooding to coastal properties and communities.

“While the risk is greatest around high-tide times, our message is clear: take extra care if you are near the coast at any point and stay well clear of waves and water. Be careful when travelling around exposed coastal areas and don’t walk or drive through flood water as there may be hidden hazards.”

The Met Office has warned of potential power cuts, damage to buildings, poor mobile phone coverage and danger to life because of large waves and debris from beaches being thrown on to seafronts.

The Scottish ferry operator CalMac announced a number of cancellations because of the weather, adding that other services may be cancelled at short notice.

CalMac said on X on Sunday morning that it had cancelled all sailings on at least five different routes “in relation to strong winds”.

ScotRail previously said some of its services were disrupted between 12pm and 7pm.

On Saturday, more than 140 flights throughout the UK were cancelled as a result of the storm and in Ireland, about 34,000 people were left without electricity earlier in the day, with the number later decreasing to about 12,000.

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