quick weekend trip near me

• Last Updated On
• November 25, 2023

41 Best Weekend Getaways in Kentucky — Quick Trips!

As a local in the Bluegrass State, I’ve explored every nook and cranny of Kentucky’s diverse landscape, and let me tell you, the experiences have been unforgettable. 

Beyond its renowned fried chicken, whiskey, and derbies, there’s so much more to this southeastern gem. 

Ever wandered through a mystical underground cave system? 

Gazed at the beauty of our waterfalls? 

Walked along a plunging river gorge? 

Kentucky’s quirky roadside attractions, top-tier museums, and historical sites are just the beginning. 

Whether it’s ziplining for the thrill-seekers or antiquing for the collectors, you’ll find it all here. 

Come on, let me guide you through the best weekend getaways in Kentucky.

Best Weekend Getaways In Kentucky Compared

Ready to dive into the charm of Kentucky? 

Check out our ultimate picks for weekend wonders in the Bluegrass State.

Editor’s Choice

Hotel Covington

Hotel Covington in Covington has several rooms and suites equipped with amenities like Wi-Fi, tablets, room service, TV, safe and more to ensure that you have a comfortable and hassle-free experience.

• Room Variety: 4/5
• Comfort and Cleanliness: 4/5
• Location: 5/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Family-Friendliness: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

21c Museum Hotel

21c Museum Hotel can offer a truly unique experience for all history and art lovers considering that it includes not only a museum within its premises but also a boutique hotel where you can spend your weekend.

• Comfort and Cleanliness: 5/5
• Location: 4/5
• Affordability: 2/5
• Family-Friendliness: 3/5

#3rd Best Choice

The Brown Hotel

Having been around since 1923, The Brown Hotel is a historic and famous hotel in Louisville, Kentucky that you can consider spending your weekend in for an opulent, comfortable and quiet experience.

Here are the top 41 weekend getaways in Kentucky.

1. Hotel Covington (Editor’s Choice)

638 Madison Ave Covington, KY 41011 (859) 905-6600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Charming Location: You’ll be just steps away from cool shops, restaurants, and local attractions. It’s like having the best of the city at your doorstep.
• Stylish Design: The hotel’s interior design is seriously on point. It’s got that trendy yet cozy vibe that’ll make you feel right at home. 
• Pricier Picks: While the experience is great, the prices can lean toward the steeper side. 
• Noise Levels: Being in a bustling area comes with a bit of noise, and some guests have mentioned that it can be a touch loud during peak times.

This hotel also provides various kinds of packages and offers that you can use to gain a particular kind of experience in the hotel.

For instance, if you want to spend some time trying out different kinds of bourbons, you can do so at Coppin’s Bar in the hotel.

Other options for these tailored experiences include celebrations, game day offers, girls’ nights and romance getaway experiences.

The hotel also has a patio and coffee bar that you can visit during your time here in addition to exploring the local area if you wish to step out.

2. 21c Museum Hotel

700 West Main Street Louisville, KY 40202 (502) 217-6300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Artistic Ambiance: If you’re into art and culture, this place is a treasure trove. You’ll be surrounded by thought-provoking and downright cool artwork. 
• Impeccable Cleanliness: You won’t find a speck of dust here. The hotel takes cleanliness seriously, and that’s a huge plus in anyone’s book. 
• Price Tag Shock: While the experience is undeniably unique, it can dig a little deeper into your pockets. 
• Not Hyper-Family-Friendly: The artistic vibe might not jive well with super young travelers.

This hotel is based in Louisville, although it also has a property in Lexington as well as certain other states in the country.

The museum itself has collections and exhibits of contemporary art that you can view and admire.

There are not only art pieces there but also several sculptures and installations that you can check out.

The rooms in the hotel are full of natural light, curated art and light fixtures, large windows, high ceilings and contemporary decor.

You can book rooms, suites, balcony rooms, a rooftop apartment and several other artistic and immersive bedrooms.

3. The Brown Hotel

335 W Broadway Louisville, KY 40202 (888) 888-5252 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Prime Location: If you’re all about convenience, The Brown Hotel’s got you covered. It’s like a central hub for exploring the city. 
• Historical Charm: This place has stories to tell. The historical vibe is undeniable and adds a unique layer to your stay. 
• Price Consideration: While it’s not the priciest spot out there, it’s also not the cheapest. You’ll need to balance the charm with your budget to make sure it’s a good fit.
• Kid Zone Limitations: While families are welcome, The Brown Hotel’s atmosphere might be more geared toward adults.

There are 16 stories in this hotel and nearly 300 rooms, allowing you to choose between guestrooms, club rooms and suites depending on your preferences.

Apart from several modern amenities in the rooms (Wi-Fi, TV, coffee maker, refrigerator), you can also access the lounge and dining spaces in this hotel that can enhance your stay.

Several bars are also in place here that celebrate bourbon with all kinds of cocktails.

There are also several special offers and possibilities for hosting events like meetings, weddings, parties and other such social gatherings.

Newport, KY (859) 292-3666 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Kentucky vacations must include Newport if you want an urban holiday.

Part of Newport comprises the Bluegrass region, so you will certainly be able to spend time with horses if you are interested.

Newport also includes the meeting point of the Ohio and Licking Rivers, allowing you to spend some time by the riverfront either relaxing, strolling and picnicking or boating.

Some attractions that can add to your experience include the Newport Aquarium, East Row Historic District, Falcon Theater, Footlighters and the Stained Glass Theater, Purple People Bridge and World Peace Bell.

Live music and street festivals are quite popular in this city, some of which include Harvest Fest, Riverfest, Taste of Newport, Italianfest, Bacon, Bourbon & Brew Festival, Oktoberfest and others.

Recommended Hotel: Aloft Newport on the Levee

5. Louisville

Louisville KY (888) 568-4784 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Louisville is a city in Kentucky that houses a lot of history, culture and entertainment.

Various kinds of fairs and festivals take place here frequently, such as the Kentucky Derby, Humana Festival of New American Plays, Kentucky Shakespeare Festival, Kentucky State Fair, Forecastle Festival and the First Friday Hop, among others.

There are many golf courses, restaurants, breweries, parks and museums that you can visit here.

The Lousiville Zoo, Muhammad Ali Center, historic neighborhoods, public art collections, Kentucky Science Center and the Urban Bourbon Trail are some attractions you can consider visiting.

Louisville also has a Museum Row that includes the Frazier History Museum, Kentucky Museum of Art and Craft, Speed Art Museum, Filson Historical Society and several others.

Recommended Hotel: The Seelbach Hilton Louisville

Related: Family Beaches in Kentucky

6. A Storybook Inn

277 Rose Hill Avenue Versailles, KY 40383 (859) 879-9993 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

A Storybook Inn located in Versailles, Kentucky is a Select Registry Inn where you can spend a comfortable weekend while also soaking in the historic architecture of the inn.

This inn features a guesthouse with several rooms and facilities that you can book if you have a large group of people with you or want to host a group event or gathering.

The inn also has four kinds of suites that you can opt for, each named My Fair Lady, Casablanca, Gone with the Wind and Somewhere in Time.

There are many packages that can give you special access to some treats and baskets that can make your stay more indulgent and enjoyable.

Events and specials often take place at this inn too.

7. Pine Mountain State Resort Park

1050 State Park Road Pineville, KY 40977 (606) 337-3066 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the best weekend trips in Kentucky can be to the Pine Mountain State Resort Park.

This state park includes natural preserves, rock formations, creeks, a golf course, rivers and several trails.

Make it a point to go on the Chained Rock Trail and Hemlock Garden Trail and visit the Laurel Cove Amphitheater while also birdwatching at the Cumberland Plateau.

You can also swim around in the pool, visit the picnic shelters, go to the gift shop, eat at the restaurant or grab a drink at the tavern.

The Pine Mountain Resort also has lodging options in the form of around 30 rooms, each equipped with balconies and patios where you can enjoy the view of the mountains.

Related: Best Day Trips From Louisville

8. Country Girl at Heart Farm Bed & Breakfast

6230 Priceville Rd Munfordville, KY 42765 (270) 531-5276 Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Country Girl at Heart Farm Bed & Breakfast is located in Munfordville, Kentucky.

It is a 140-acre renovated farmhouse that follows sustainable farming practices and includes five bedrooms, each with different themes and decorations that you can choose to live in for your weekend.

This countryside experience can help you take a break from the commotion of the city while also being surrounded by historical architecture, modern facilities, a front porch to gather and socialize as well as a chance to try out some farming activities on your own.

There are various farm animals that you can interact with in addition to several facilities in the inn, such as a lounge room, piano, basement recreation room and a library area.

9. Bardstown

Bardstown, KY (502) 348-4877 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bardstown is a city in Kentucky and is a major site of bourbon production and distribution, so enjoying this whiskey straight from the bard’s mouth can certainly be an experience that you can have here.

There are lots of distilleries and taverns here, including the popular Old Talbott Tavern and Heaven Hill, with a Kentucky Bourbon Festival also taking place in this city.

Some other attractions worth visiting here include the Civil War Museum, Kentucky Railway Museum, Women’s Museum of the 1800s and Civil War Period, Bernheim Arboretum and Research Forest and the Bardstown-Nelson County Historical Museum, among others.

You can also take the Historic Downtown Walking Tour or an Around The Town Carriage to explore the city further.

Recommended Hotel: Talbott Tavern and Inn

Related: Things to Do in Kentucky

10. Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave, KY 42259 (270) 758-2180 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Mammoth Cave National Park is known for its long and huge caves, making this an adventurous, eerie yet beautiful weekend destination.

With hills, valleys, rivers, woods, wildlife and various kinds of rock formations, this national park can provide you with a unique and tranquil experience over the weekend.

This is a World Heritage Site where you can go on several kinds of cave tours that include lighted tours, wild tours and an Echo River Tour.

There are many ranger-led programs, camping experiences, hiking and biking trails, canoeing and kayaking options, fishing, stargazing, horseback riding, audio tours and other such activities for you to carry out.

You can also take the national water trail along the Green and Nolin Rivers Blueway.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Cave City

11. Versailles

Versailles, KY Open in Google Maps

Versailles is certainly a place to add to your list of Kentucky vacation ideas .

This city in Woodford County includes a part of the Bluegrass region, giving you access to several horse-related activities such as viewing, riding and watching the races.

Bourbon is a popular drink here, so you can expect to find a bunch of distilleries, bars and taverns in the city where you can grab a drink.

Versailles can be a great place to go if you want an urban experience while still experiencing the charms of a small town.

There are several outdoor activities you can carry out here that include hiking, boating, fishing, rock climbing, biking, paddling, house boating, off-roading, zip-lining and more.

Some attractions to visit here are the Jack Jouett House Historic Site, Eckert’s Orchard, Three Chimneys Farm, Irish Acres Gallery of Antiques, BlueGrass Railroad and Museum, Kentucky Castle and the Nostalgia Station Toy Museum.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Lexington W – Versailles, an IHG Hotel

12. The Campbell House

1375 South Broadway Road Lexington, KY 40504 (859) 255-4281 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Campbell House in Lexington is a historic hotel part of the Curio Collection by Hilton.

It is one of the Historic Hotels of America and includes The Rackhouse and The Outpost Cafe and Market as some eating options within it so that you can spend all your time relaxing on the hotel premises.

Cocktail options, particularly for bourbon, are also available.

With antebellum architecture and 250 guest rooms and suites for you to choose from, this hotel can offer the ideal stay-in luxurious weekend, complete with room service, rustic decor and modern amenities.

There are several events that take place in the hotel, including horse fencing, that you can witness.

You can also host your own events and festivities here.

13. Lake Cumberland State Resort Park

5465 State Park Rd. Jamestown, KY 42629 (270) 343-3111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lake Cumberland State Resort Park comprises a large area covered by the lake where you can boat, swim, fish, paddle, canoe or just relax and enjoy the view.

The state park also includes numerous trails that you can hike on to explore the wildlife and nature around you.

Open fields and spaces further make it possible to play games and sports like tennis and volleyball, ensuring that you have enough time and freedom to have some fun while you are here.

The Lure Lodge in this resort park has 63 rooms offering a view of the lake in addition to 75 campsites and 29 cottages.

You can visit the Wolf Creek National Fish Hatchery Visitor and Environmental Education Center while also making your way to the Rowena Landing Restaurant for some food and drinks.

Recommended Hotel: Timber Pointe Resort

Related: Things to Do in Kentucky with Kids

14. Bowling Green

Bowling Green KY (800) 326-7465 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Bowling Green is a city in Kentucky and includes plenty of parks, golf courses, museums, recreation centers and other such attractions.

Some museums worth visiting here include Kentucky Museum and Library, National Corvette Museum, Riverview at Hobson Grove and Historic Railpark and Train Museum.

The Sloan Convention Center, Russell Sims Aquatic Center, Fountain Square Park and other community gardens, water parks and skate parks are places that you can consider visiting.

There are various restaurants and bars here that you can try out in addition to inns, hotels, cabins, lodges, cottages and campgrounds where you can book your accommodation for the night(s).

You can also hike and bike around town and attend certain events and festivals taking place at the time of your visit.

Recommended Hotel: Staybridge Suites Bowling Green, an IHG Hotel

15. Red River Gorge

Red River Gorge Slade, KY 40376 (606) 663-0000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Red River Gorge is a part of the Daniel Boone National Forest and features a canyon-like structure with the Red River passing through it.

You can get a glimpse of natural rock formations at this gorge, many of which take on the shapes of cliffs, bridges, arches and caves.

Several waterfalls also tend to flow here, making for a truly picturesque trip.

You can choose to rest and picnic here or you can tickle your adventure bug by trying out rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing and hiking.

You can also camp at one of the campsites to complete your weekend.

Some trails and structures here include the Bald Rock Recreational Preserve, Pendergrass-Murray Recreational Preserve, Indian Staircase and Indian Arch, Double Arch, Star Gap Arch, Arch of Triumph and The Gorge Underground, among others.

Recommended Hotel: Red River Gorge Creekside

16. Paducah

Paducah, KY (800) 723-8224 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Paducah is a city in Kentucky that you can consider for a weekend trip if you are particularly into art, history and culture.

The city is known for its folk art, crafts and murals that you can come across through a simple stroll through the city.

There are a bunch of museums, galleries, monuments and exhibits that you can visit while you are in town, some of which include the National Quilt Museum, Market House Theater, Yeiser Art Center, Lower Town Arts District and the “Wall to Wall” murals.

Annual events that you can come for in this city include the Dogwood Trail Celebration, Quilt Week, Lower Town Arts & Music Festival, Barbecue on the River and International Film Festival.

Recommended Hotel: 1895 Washington Hotel

17. Pinnacles of Berea

2047 Big Hill Rd. Berea, KY 40403 (859) 756-3315 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Pinnacles of Berea can be a beautiful place to visit, especially if you want to hike or trek up to the area to get a scenic view.

There are various kinds and distances of trails that you can take here, although there are also some other biking and horse riding options that can take you through the region.

Additionally, once you complete your trail or hike, you can also visit the town of Berea where you can shop, explore the restaurants and bars and take in the local attractions such as the museums and parks.

Tours are available, although you can simply stroll around the city and look at the public art as well.

There are several lodges, inns, hotels and campsites where you can spend the night.

Recommended Hotel: Historic Boone Tavern

Related: Family Hotels in Kentucky

18. The Ashley Inn

128 Ashley Inn Way Lancaster, KY 40444 (800) 548-4922 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Ashley Inn is a bed-and-breakfast in Lancaster, Kentucky where you can spend a romantic weekend with your partner or even host group events such as parties and weddings.

You can also access catering, wedding packages, vendors and decor support from the inn so that you can make your weekend perfect.

This inn has numerous accommodation options that you can opt for, including rooms, suites as well as space for some equestrian layovers.

You can experience a mix of Georgian and colonial architecture here in this stately property while also spending some time in the gardens.

Apart from the rooms themselves, there is a dining room, outdoor venues as well as barns and arenas.

London, KY (606) 330-0501 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

London is a city in Kentucky and can be the place to visit for your weekend getaway if you enjoy parks, adventures and outdoor experiences.

Some local attractions that are a part of the city include Camp Wildcat Civil War Battlefield, Wildcat Off-Road Adventure Park, Levi Jackson Wilderness Road Park, Laurel River Lake, Sheltowee Trace Recreational Trail, Sanders Cafe and Museum, Air Raid Trampoline Park and more.

Various sporting and racing events take place here in addition to live music sessions and concerts.

Cycling is quite popular here too, as are hiking, fishing, paddling, boating and kayaking.

London also hosts the World Chicken Festival every year that you can come down for in addition to frequent flea markets and fairs that you can check out.

Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson London, Kentucky

20. Frankfort

Frankfort, KY (800) 960-7200 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Frankfort in Kentucky is a city that can make for an interesting experience over the span of a weekend.

In this city, you can opt for inns, lodges, hotels and vacation rentals where you can spend your night and take some time to rest.

There are, moreover, various culinary options available in this city, allowing you to try out diverse cuisines in restaurants, eateries, cafes, bars as well as street food stalls.

While you are here, make sure you also try out some bourbon or an associated cocktail in a brewery or distillery.

Some attractions you can visit in Frankfort include Canoe Kentucky, Capital View Park, Cove Spring Park, Frankfort Cemetery, Frankfort Public Art Tour, Capital Gallery of Contemporary Art, Berry Hill Mansion and Capital City Museum.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Frankfort

21. Lexington

Lexington, KY (800) 845-3959 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Lexington is a large city in Kentucky and is called the horse capital of the world given that it includes most of the state’s Bluegrass region that houses several kinds of horses.

You can be a part of horse farm tours and even visit the Kentucky Horse Park and the American Saddlebred Museum while also opting for horseback riding sessions and viewing the races at the Keeneland Racecourse.

There are many other activities for you to carry out in Lexington like hiking, picnicking, golfing, canoeing, zip-lining and more.

You can also visit attractions like The Henry Clay Estate, The Arboretum, Art-at-the-Cathedral, ArtHouse Kentucky, Aviation Museum of Kentucky, Barrel House Distilling Co. and several other museums and bourbon bars and breweries.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Place Lexington

22. Georgetown

Georgetown, KY (502) 863-2547 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Georgetown, a city in Scott County, offers numerous kinds of attractions that you can visit over your weekend here, including museums, parks, restaurants, bars, trails, tours, sports and activities.

For instance, you can visit the Old Friends Retired Thoroughbred Farm, Toyota Motor Manufacturing Kentucky, Ward Hall, Tee Times Indoor Golf, Bi-Water Farm & Greenhouse, Royal Spring Park, Georgetown & Scott County Museum, Georgetown College and more.

You can also take a historic walking tour that can take you through the important districts and neighborhoods present in this city.

You can also take bourbon trails, walking or biking trails, play some golf or visit the Elkhorn Creek or Bill’s Play Lake for some great views and water activities.

The Suffoletta Family Aquatic Center can be a good place to visit for some family fun in the right season.

Recommended Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Georgetown, KY

23. Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown, KY (270) 765-2175 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Elizabethtown is another great city that you can consider visiting in Kentucky.

Commonly called E-town, this city can be a good respite from the city and a way to experience the charms and lifestyles of a small town.

This city has several hotels and inns that you can stay at, many of which are also pet friendly in case you want to spend a nice weekend with your pets.

You can spend your weekend strolling around the city, soaking in the vibe of the architecture, enjoying the weather and exploring the local cuisine in the restaurants and bars.

You can also visit some local attractions while you are here, some of which include the American Legion Park, Elizabethtown Nature Park and Hardin County Veterans Tribute.

Farmers’ markets take place here pretty often, so do visit these for some organic food and products.

Recommended Hotel: Wingfield Inn & Suites

24. The Beaumont Inn

638 Beaumont Inn Drive Harrodsburg, KY 40330 (859) 734-3381 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Beaumont Inn in Harrodsburg, Kentucky can be a lovely place to visit over the weekend, allowing you to truly relax and refresh yourself after a busy week.

This inn has several rooms and suites that you can book at the Goddard Hall and the Main Inn while also accessing other facilities such as the parlor, dining room, gift shop, porch and lounge.

This inn serves food in its Main Dining Room and also houses a tavern called the Old Owl Tavern where you can grab a snack and drink.

Moreover, if you want some special offers and packages, you can opt for some of these to make your stay at this inn more intimate and memorable.

25. Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa

1800 Newtown Pike Lexington, KY 40511 (859) 231-5100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa can make for one of the best romantic getaways in Kentucky considering the kind of opulence and privacy that it can offer, not to mention the facilities in store that you and your partner can access together.

This resort in Lexington is located in sprawling gardens and includes amenities such as a pool, lounge, restaurants, bars as well as in-room facilities such as a TV, Wi-Fi access, refrigerator, plush beds and lots more.

You can, moreover, book an appointment at the spa where you and your partner can access various kinds of treatments and services that can help you spend time together and relieve yourselves of stress.

Guest rooms, suites and balcony suites are some accommodation options.

26. Scottwood Bed and Breakfast

2004 E Leestown Rd Midway, KY 40347 (859) 846-5037 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

Scottwood Bed and Breakfast is located in Midway, Kentucky.

It is a historic building and a charming little structure with three suites, all featuring a queen bed and private bathrooms, one of which also has a sitting room and some extra space.

These rooms provide splendid views of lush farms full of horses as well as a clear view of the sky.

This boutique hotel further has a lounge and dining room that you can access during your stay here in addition to various breakfast options.

You can also step out during the day and drive or walk around the scenic town of Midway.

The South Elkhorn Creek is one place to visit nearby where you can enjoy the waters and boat, fish or lounge.

27. Hopkinsville

Hopkinsville, KY (270) 887-2300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Hopkinsville is located in Christian County in Kentucky and has many trails, tours and attractions that you can visit over the course of the weekend.

For instance, you can take guided tours that take you through certain important locations in town such as the Alhambra Theatre Guided Tours, African American History Cell Phone Tour, Downtown Walking Tour and a tour of the murals across the county.

Some other places you must visit here include Fort Campbell and Pennyroyal Area Museum.

Events like Little River Days (a multi-activity family festival) and others can improve your visit and experience.

Find a quaint inn or grand hotel to spend the night.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Hopkinsville

28. Richmond

Richmond, KY (859) 626-8474 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Richmond is a city in Kentucky where you can explore the sights and try out some of the cuisines and dining options available here.

Richmond is a fun place to visit during your weekend given the kinds of events and festivals almost always taking place here that you can check out.

For instance, the Millstone Festival, yard sales, farmers’ markets, parades, entertainment shows and concerts are some options that might be taking place while you are here.

Additionally, there are also various attractions to see here that include Battle of Richmond Visitors Center and Battlefield Park, Battlefield Golf Course & Country Club, Camp Catalpa, Chenault Vineyards, Daniel Boone Monument, Dillingham Park and others.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Richmond KY

29. Owensboro

Owensboro, KY (270) 926-1100 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Owensboro is a city that has several historically important buildings, including a number of churches that might be worth visiting.

Further, this city is known for hosting various kinds of events and festivals on an annual basis that might be interesting for you to check out.

For example, the International Bar-B-Q Festival takes place over a May weekend.

Other such events include River of Music Party, Lanham Brothers Jamboree, Friday After 5 (concert series) and the Owensboro PumpkinFest.

Some attractions to visit here include Western Kentucky Botanical Garden, International Bluegrass Music Museum, Owensboro Bridge, Owensboro Museum of Science and History and RiverPark Center, among others.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Owensboro Downtown/Riverside

30. Kenlake State Resort Park

542 Kenlake Rd Hardin, KY 42048 (270) 474-2211 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

If you are looking for weekend getaways in KY, the Kenlake State Resort Park can be quite serene and tranquil.

This park is located along Kentucky Lake, providing access to the lake in case you want to relax, swim, boat, fish, jet ski or simply admire the view.

You can also play indoor tennis, watch and observe some birds, hike and bike on the Eggners’ Ferry Bridge, swim in the pool and visit the amphitheater.

This is also a great spot for picnics with picnic shelters in place.

In case you want to spend the night here, you can opt for the campgrounds, cottages or one of the 48 rooms present in the hotel.

The Aurora Landing Restaurant can additionally provide some delicious meals.

31. The Corner House

228 Richmond Ave Nicholasville, KY 40356 (859) 881-5229 Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Corner House is located in Nicholasville in Kentucky and is a bed-and-breakfast with quaint Victorian architecture and interiors.

There are several rooms present in this bed-and-breakfast, although you can also rent out one of the other six houses that are a part of this property to have a truly intimate and quiet experience over your weekend.

This house has guestrooms and suites that can allow you to have a comfortable time.

Wi-Fi, breakfast, barbeque facilities and pet-friendly spaces are all available here so that you can have a hassle-free experience.

You can also host events and gatherings here with prior reservations.

32. Pinnacle View Inn

491 Log Cabin Road Berea, KY 40403 (859) 986-0044 Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Pinnacle View Inn in Berea, Kentucky can offer some breathtaking views and the perfect relaxing and romantic weekend that you might be craving.

This inn gives you a view of the Red Lick Valley and includes rooms and suites that you can access on the basis of your preference.

This inn is a pet-friendly option and is also quite accessible to the town and nearby trails and tours that you might be interested in taking.

You can also simply spend your time indoors or with a brief stroll around the inn if you prefer some more privacy.

You can access room service or eat in the dining room, where you will receive locally sourced food.

33. Snug Hollow Farm Bed & Breakfast

790 McSwain Branch Rd Irvine, KY 40336 (606) 723 4786 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated in Irvine, Kentucky, this cozy bed and breakfast is actually located on a 300-acre mountain farm that can provide you with seclusion, privacy, scenic views and lots of space and activity options.

A truly rustic getaway, this bed and breakfast has three cabins that you can book, with each cabin all to yourself.

The sprawling nature of this place can also make it a great place to host events and weddings as long as you make arrangements and reservations in advance.

You can also sit by the firepit or by the creek and soak in the fresh air.

There are walking trails, an organic vegetable garden, meals delivered to your cabins, a meadow, a library and lots more that you can access in this hideout.

34. DuPont Mansion

1317 S. Fourth Street Louisville, KY 40208 (502) 638-0045 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

DuPont Mansion is a splendid and ornate mansion located in Louisville, Kentucky, making it a central and fully relaxing place to spend your weekend.

You can also enjoy taking in the historical architecture and decor while you stay here in addition to the luxuries of room service and other dining options that you can access.

Weddings and group events are great to host here, especially if you can manage to book the entire mansion for you and your family and friends.

There are many rooms here, including a suite, that you can book.

Lounge rooms, balconies and porches are some other facilities that you can enjoy here.

35. Rabbit Hash

6031 Bishop Bend Rd. Union KY 41091 (859) 795-1801 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Rabbit Hash is a small community town in Kentucky that can be a great getaway for a weekend, taking you away from the bustle of the city and into the arms of a small town.

This town is on the National Register of Historic Places, with the Rabbit Hash General Store and the Rabbit Hash Historic District being of particular interest, so make sure you take your time to roam around town while you are here.

Interestingly, this town has had several canine mayors that can add to its charms and eccentricities.

There are many historic shops, inns and lodges that you can visit.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Cincinnati Airport South/Florence

36. Southern Grace Bed & Breakfast

325 Kirchdorfer Road Brandenburg, KY 40108 (270) 422-7974 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Southern Grace Bed & Breakfast is located in Brandenburg and lies nestled between woods, a lake and sprawling gardens as well as a nearby farm.

Despite giving you a lovely and intimate experience, this bed-and-breakfast can still provide several luxurious and modern amenities to make your visit enjoyable and memorable.

Full of glass windows and doors, chandeliers, high ceilings and antiques, this place is truly the epitome of southern grace since you will be able to bask and bathe in luxury, even in your room.

There are six well-equipped rooms that you can book.

You can also book the entire villa well in advance for events and weddings.

Warsaw, KY Open in Google Maps

Quick trips to Kentucky are incomplete without Warsaw, a city situated on the Ohio River.

While you are here, make it a point to explore and walk around the Warsaw Historic District which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

You can either explore the buildings with Italianate and Gothic Revival architecture on your own or take some walking tours.

You can also visit the city during the annual River Days summertime festival that offers food, live music and fireworks.

Some places worth visiting here include the Gallatin County Courthouse and the Henry Yates House.

You can also sit by the river and participate in some water activities such as fishing and boating.

Recommended Hotel: Ramada by Wyndham Sparta/At Speedway

38. Green Turtle Bay Resort & Marina

Cumberland River Mile 32, 239 Jetty Drive Grand Rivers, KY 42045 (800) 498-0428 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Green Turtle Bay Resort & Marina is the place to be on a weekend when all you want is some peace, quiet, comfort and lovely views.

This resort offers several rooms, condos, suites and vacation rentals where you can spend the night.

You can also rent a boat or cruise and spend your time on the water while also signing up for some water activities at the marina.

You can dine on a yacht or on the bay or in the middle of the resort while also sipping on a refreshing drink.

Related: Best Resorts in Kentucky

39. Cliffview Resort

455 Cliffview Road Campton, KY 41301 (606) 268-5705 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located in Campton, Cliffview Resort is nestled in some woods and situated next to a lake.

You can either rent a room or suite in the lodge and use the kitchen and other shared spaces or you can book luxury cabins, lakeside cabins and an 11-room cabin called the Retreat for a larger group of people.

There is lots to do here such as hiking, zip-lining, hosting events (such as weddings), playing around in the field, carrying out water activities, fishing, horseback riding, rock climbing or simply exploring the area.

40. Wigwam Village No. 2

601 N Dixie Hwy Cave City, KY 42127 (833) 944-9267 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Wigwam Village No. 2 is located in Cave City in Kentucky and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

It offers separate wigwams that include beds, caned chairs, bathrooms, stands and more where you can spend a comfortable time camping out.

There are a couple of fire pits on this campsite in addition to a playground where your kids can run around and play.

Campfires and socializing options here can make this a fun experience.

Cooking grills and picnic pavilions are also available in this village that you can make use of.

41. Springfield

Springfield, KY (859) 336-5412 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Springfield is a city in Kentucky and the last (but never the least) getaway option on our list.

There are several springs in this city that can make for a nice weekend excursion.

There are many local attractions that can enhance your experience here including the St. Rose Priory Church, Springfield Opera House, Lincoln Legacy Museum, Lincoln Homestead State Park, River of Life as well as several bars and restaurants that you can visit.

Events and exhibits are common and frequent here, so looking into what is happening while you are here can always be a good idea.

Hopefully, this comprehensive list of the best weekend getaways in Kentucky has given you something to look forward to.

You can now pick out your favorites, start planning and get going!

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Lebanon

Getaway Guide 

Comparing destinations: which one is right for you.

The charm of Kentucky hotels is something special, and I’ve experienced the best of what they have to offer. 

My stay at Hotel Covington was like stepping back in time. 

The vintage vibe, mixed with modern comfort, felt just right for a relaxing family getaway.

Now, if you’re more into arts and culture, the 21c Museum Hotel is your spot. 

We enjoyed contemporary art all around us, turning a simple weekend stay into an art exploration! 

My kids couldn’t stop talking about it.

But The Brown Hotel has its own appeal. 

That classic elegance, coupled with their world-famous Hot Brown sandwich, was something I’ll never forget. 

Compared to the others, it had a touch of old-school glamor that made me feel right at home.

Each place offers something unique, so it really depends on what you and your family are into. 

How I Picked The Destinations 

Choosing these destinations was no accident. 

I’ve not only experienced them firsthand but also chatted with fellow locals and seasoned travelers. 

I dug into the nitty-gritty, listened to fellow vacationers, and researched what makes each spot shine. 

These gems were picked with love, insight, and a good dose of local know-how.

Our Property Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Room Variety: I use this to rate the room options offered by every property. What room types are available? Can it accommodate different budgets, group sizes, and preferences? I ask myself these questions when evaluating the property’s room variety. 
• Comfort and Cleanliness: This measures the overall cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations. Does it have comfortable beds? Are the rooms spotless and dust-free? These are important factors I consider when rating comfort and cleanliness. 
• Location: This is used to evaluate how convenient and accessible the property is. How close is it to the attractions? Are there good public transportation options near the location? Is it easily accessible for families? These questions are important when I rate the location of every accommodation. 
• Affordability: I use this to evaluate the property’s affordability. Are the room rates reasonable? Does the property have any additional fees? Does the property offer discounts or packages? I ask myself this in order to rate affordability. 
• Family-Friendliness: This evaluates the family-friendliness of each property. Does it offer babysitting services and children’s activities? Does it have connecting rooms for families? I use these questions to rate the family-friendliness of the property. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What’s an adventure-packed weekend destination in kentucky.

Red River Gorge is your go-to spot for adventure. Get your heart racing with hiking, rock climbing, and exploring natural wonders like the Natural Bridge.

Where Can I Experience The Beauty Of Nature During A Weekend In Kentucky?

Mammoth Cave National Park is your answer. Explore the world’s longest cave system, go hiking, or take a boat tour to witness the stunning underground formations.

What’s A Unique Weekend Getaway For History Enthusiasts In Kentucky?

Travel back in time with a visit to Lexington. This city is packed with historic sites, including the Mary Todd Lincoln House and the Waveland State Historic Site.

What’s A Hidden Gem For A Weekend Escape In Kentucky?

Discover the beauty of Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. Witness the “Niagara of the South” waterfall and enjoy outdoor activities in a serene setting.

Conclusion 

After savoring every experience and sampling each destination, the best weekend getaways in Kentucky are nothing short of extraordinary. 

Whether you’re craving adventure, culture, or just a cozy spot to unwind, Kentucky has it all. 

Among the many treasures, Hotel Covington in Covington has earned its place as my top favorite. 

With its blend of vintage charm and modern comfort, it’s a perfect match for a family escape. 

Living right here in the Bluegrass State, these gems are more than just travel spots to me; they’re part of my home. 

Your unforgettable Kentucky adventure is just a booking away.

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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Whisk yourself away on a weekend getaway

What is a mini-vacation.

A mini-vacation is a romantic weekend away, it’s 4 days of sun, sea, and sand, it’s an adventure for the whole family. It’s whatever you want it to be, mini-sized. To build your dream mini-vacation, enter your desired location and your travel dates, and let us take care of the rest. When you build your Expedia package deal, you bundle your accommodation, flights, and car rentals and save money.

Where should I go for a mini-vacation?

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 .

How can I find the best weekend getaway deals?

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a mini-vacation, Expedia always has amazing deals. You can choose from our attractive offers that include accommodation, flights, and car rentals, or build your own package and still bundle to save. Our vast network of partners and advanced filters make it easy to find, compare, and craft a trip that speaks to you and your wallet.

How do I plan a cheap weekend getaway?

To find cheap getaways, you can filter your Expedia search results by your per-night budget, so you only see available accommodation that suits you on the dates you want to travel. Look out for special offers and sign in to see member prices on all kinds of cheap weekend getaways. You may be best off looking in the low season and away from the main tourist areas to find more cheap trips ideas. If you’re traveling in a larger group, you might find a vacation rental or condo resort is a cheaper option than everyone booking a hotel room.

How do you plan a weekend romantic getaway on a budget?

Expedia makes it easy to plan the best weekend getaways for couples, even if you’re on a tight budget. You can filter your tempting search results by price, but more importantly, you can filter by amenities, such as hot tub, ocean view, spa to tailor make your unforgettable couple’s retreat.

Where should I go on a girls’ trip?

A weekend of skiing in Colorado –party included–or lounging on the beach in Cancun ? Mooching through the markets in Portland, Oregon , or hitting the big shops in New York . Whatever makes your best weekend getaway with the girls, you can get a great deal that suits everyone’s pocket with Expedia.

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

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

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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• Moscow Travel and City Excursions

Our 20 Best Moscow Day Tours of 2022

See all that Moscow has to offer by choosing one or more of our incredible Moscow day tours. Visit Red Square , St. Basil’s , the Kremlin or perhaps a vodka museum and the fantastic Moscow metro system , we have it all. Our expert, informative and fun guides will help you get to know Europe’s largest city. Please click on the day tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page.  You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous Bolshoi Theatre, and the former KGB headquarters...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 20:00
• Languages English-speaking guide is guaranteed. Other languages are on request.
• Walking tours Transportation is not included
• PRIVATE TOUR This is a private tour, there won't be other people in your group

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will escort you on a route that includes Vorobyevi...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 18:00
• Tours by car Transportation by private car/minivan is included

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious life of different Jewish families, as well...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday 11:00 - 20:00 Friday 10:00 - 14:00 Saturday not available

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened to two and a half times its original size,...

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to the victims of the repression. You will then...

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the street’s many craftsmen....

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury and the workplace of the Russian President....

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday not available

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and 19th century including works by Rublyov, Karavak,...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday, Friday, Saturday 10:00 - 20:00

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure served as a convent for women of noble birth...

• Schedule Daily 09:00 - 17:00

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians themselves and for visitors from abroad....

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 17:00

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was here that Donskoi celebrated his victory over...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 18:00

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra) was built in the first half of the 1340s by...

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic gothic style. The complex includes a landscape...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 11:00 - 17:00 Saturday 11:00 - 19:00 Sunday 11:00 - 18:00

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history dates back to 1715, when the village of Kuskovo...

• Schedule Monday, Tuesday not available Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 18:00

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone centuries. You will get to know the story...

• Schedule Daily 10:00 - 19:00

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy and his family including books and personal...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10:00 - 17:00 Thursday 12:00 - 19:00

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's collection includes more than three thousand...

• Schedule Monday not available Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12:00 - 19:00 Thursday 14:00 - 21:00

Express to Russia specializes in Moscow city excursions, an essential part of your Moscow travel itinerary. We offer a large variety of day excursions throughout Moscow and its suburbs. From  Red Square  and the  Kremlin  to a city tour of Moscow’s  Old Arbat Street  or the  Moscow metro , an excursion specializing in Stalin and the KGB and much more. No travel to Moscow is complete without taking a few of our day tours that most meet your interest in Russia.

Moscow City Tours

Our Moscow day excursions can be organized on foot or with transport. All of our excursions are led by an experienced guide, specializing in the subject matter of the tour. Excursions are privately run and can be booked for 1 traveler all the way up to large groups of travelers. We run our Moscow city tours in every season. This is because travel to Moscow is excellent in any season. In the summer take a stroll through  Gorky Park  or take a riverboat tour along the Moskva River. In the winter, see Moscow’s winter wonderland of ice and snow and then settle in for a cozy lunch or dinner with a hot bowl of borsht. In winter, spring and fall, you can beat the crowds at all of Moscow’s main attractions and museums. Regardless of when you come, Express to Russia will make sure that your trip is one of your best vacations ever.

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The Best Weekend Getaways in the United States

There’s never been a better time to explore close to home..

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There’s never been a better time to explore our vast and diverse nation. And while we love quick trips to New York City and Chicago and Los Angeles, we’ve surfaced 13 lesser-known places—and some hidden sides of more familiar places—that are equally worth a weekend. On our list: a surprisingly diverse Midwestern city, a new Smoky Mountain hideaway, and what might be the mellowest town in California. So please read on, be inspired to explore, and share your experiences with us on Instagram using the hashtag #traveldeeper. —Julia Cosgrove, Editor in Chief

Northeast/Midwest

Photo by Read McKendree/Soundview

North Fork, New York

With its wineries, bucolic pastures, and farm-to-table food scene, Long Island’s North Fork feels a million miles from Manhattan. In reality, it’s less than 100 miles away.

For weekenders more interested in relaxation than ritz, Long Island’s North Fork is the ultimate getaway. Tranquil 19th-century towns and family-owned farm stands look out on the coastline. Tight community ties and a slower pace of life make the region a welcome retreat from big-city hustle. Here’s how to make the most of your escape.

Where to stay: Once a 1950s motel, the 55-room Sound View Greenport puts a nautical twist on classic motel motifs with laid-back interiors inspired by modernist beachside homes. Spend your morning sipping freshly roasted coffee in the ocean-facing lobby lounge, then take an art workshop. Don’t miss nights at the piano bar, where a partnership with New York City ’s iconic Joe’s Pub brings intimate performances by up-and-coming musicians to the space every weekend. From $325.

Where to drink: The waterfront, wind-powered tasting room of family-owned Kontokosta Winery sits on 62 acres of coastal farmland in Greenport. Down the road in Mattituck, taste vintages from the Macari family, who started making wine in the 1930s in the basement of their home in Queens. Their Macari Vineyards merlot, sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and syrah pair well with the Neapolitan-style, wood-fired pizzas served by Avelino , the on-site food truck.

What to do: Day-to-day North Fork activities include leisurely bike rides, boat tours, and agricultural excursions. In Cutchogue, stop by 8 Hands Farm for a seasonally inspired breakfast or lunch at the food truck, and visit the farm store to pick up fresh eggs from pasture-raised hens or hand-knit goods made with wool from the farm’s Icelandic sheep. In downtown Greenport, sort through a superb selection of vintage clothes, vinyl records, and home furnishings curated by a father-daughter duo at Times Vintage , then walk to the welcoming street-front exhibition space of the North Fork Art Collective .

Where to eat: Don’t miss dinner (or the views) at Barba Bianca , Manhattan chef Frank DeCarlo’s restaurant that stands directly over the water in Greenport Harbor. The seasonal menu focuses on coastal Italian delicacies made with ingredients sourced from within a five-mile radius of the restaurant. —SARAH BUDER

Photos by David Joles/Star Tribune/ZUMA Press

Minneapolis, Minnesota

The debate over immigration reform, among other issues, has exposed a deep rift within the U.S. public. But one state in the Upper Midwest has welcomed outsiders and celebrated diversity for decades.

Perhaps you already know that Minnesota has the largest concentration of Scandinavian Americans in the United States. What you might not realize is that the state is also home to tens of thousands of Somalis and Americans of Somali descent; the second-largest Hmong population in the United States; and sizable immigrant communities from Mexico , Myanmar , and beyond, not to mention the numerous Native American groups that have been there all along. A good chunk of that diversity is concentrated in the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, making it easy to experience myriad cultures in just a couple of days. Explore these communities on your next visit.

Hmong: In the decades following the Vietnam War, many Hmong resettled in Minnesota. Today they dominate the local agriculture scene and run two of St. Paul’s largest and best marketplaces: Hmongtown Marketplace and Hmong Village Shopping Center . Expect a taste of Thailand , Vietnam , Laos, and China when wandering these sprawling hawker centers, as each of those countries had a hand in shaping the history, food, and fashions of the traditionally nomadic group. For modern riffs on classic Hmong cuisine (rabbit larb or smoked mushroom fried rice, for instance), look for Union Kitchen , the roaming pop-up restaurant of Chris Her and rising chef Yia Vang.

Native American: More than 35,000 members of the Ojibwe (Anishinaabe) and Dakota (Sioux) tribes have settled in and around the Twin Cities. Community leaders help run the Minneapolis American Indian Center , a multiuse space that supports arts of several varieties: traditional ( Woodland Indian Crafts ), contemporary ( Two Rivers Gallery ), and culinary ( Gatherings Cafe , which serves wild rice bowls, bison patty melts, and walleye cake Benedict, all for under $10). Elsewhere in the city, two forthcoming restaurants from Sean Sherman—an Oglala Lakota chef and author of the acclaimed 2017 cookbook, The Sioux Chef’s Indigenous Kitchen—will be tied into his newly launched nonprofit, NĀTIFS (North American Traditional Indigenous Food Systems), whose mission embraces the research and development of indigenous food knowledge.

Russian: With roots reaching back to the 19th century, Russians are one of Minnesotaʼs most established immigrant groups. The Museum of Russian Art in Minneapolis is the only cultural institute in North America devoted exclusively to Russian works; check the calendar for Orthodox choral concerts, lectures on the Russian avant-garde, and exhibitions about individuality and resistance in Russian women’s art. Foodwise, it’s a toss-up between the refined martinis and small zakuski plates (house-pickled vegetables, cured herring) at St. Paul’s Moscow on the Hill and the humbler, stick-to-your-ribs fare of Nikolai and Linda Alenov’s cultishly revered Russian Tea House , also in St. Paul. The latter is open just four hours a week, on Friday afternoons, and always packs in a crowd.

Somali: Scores of refugees—including newly elected U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar—arrived in the Twin Cities in the 1990s, at the start of Somalia’s ongoing civil war. The Minnesota-based diaspora now accounts for nearly one-third of the countryʼs Somali-American population, and the Cedar-Riverside neighborhood in Minneapolis has earned the nickname “Little Mogadishu.” It’s mostly residential, so you’ll have to drive five minutes south to check out the small but fascinating Somali Museum of Minnesota , which helps put the communityʼs tumultuous history into perspective through a tightly curated selection of textiles, art, tools, and other cultural artifacts. Ask the guides for a restaurant recommendation after your tour, and they’ll probably send you to Safari Restaurant or Quruxlow for sambusas and spaghetti.

Scandinavian: Although there are more Norwegians living in Minnesota than Swedes, the latterʼs profile is slightly more visible in the Twin Cities, thanks in large part to the excellent American Swedish Institute (ASI). Arrive early if you want to sample the acclaimed cardamom buns at ASI’s Fika Café (they always sell out), then set about exploring the institute’s rotating exhibitions of work by the likes of Swedish painter Karin Broos, fashion designer Gudrun Sjödén, photographer Magnus Wennman, and others. Round out a crash course in Scandi culture with an aquavit cocktail at Norseman Distillery and a love-it-or-loathe-it helping of Norwegian lefse and pickled herring at the 98-year-old Ingebretsenʼs. (Don’t worry; they sell salty licorice, candles, and cookbooks, too.)

German: The largest ancestral group in Hennepin County, by a long shot, Germans have both progressive new breweries ( Bauhaus Brew Labs , Waldmann Brewery & Wurstery ) and old-school restaurants where they can go to celebrate Oktoberfest all year long ( Gasthof Zur Gemütlichkeit , Black Forest Inn ). For a deeper cultural hit, head to the 62-year-old Germanic-American Institute in St. Paul, which hosts a monthly Stammtisch, or home-cooked German luncheon, and puts on exhibitions like Geniale Dilletanten (Brilliant Dilettantes), about the radical artistic renewal of East and West German subcultures of the 1980s. —ANDREW PARKS

Photo by The Avenue Concept

Providence, Rhode Island

Providence’s public art program encourages locals to get outside—and ask questions about the city’s past and present.

Walk the streets of Providence, Rhode Island, and you might stumble across Sam O. White’s “Party Shark,” a mural of a pixelated hot-pink, purple, and white shark adorning the historic Providence National Bank. You might also spot “Wild Horses,” an abstract sculpture by Rhode Island–based artist Peruko Ccopacatty, whose works are inspired by the indigenous Aymara culture of his native Peru. Then there’s Polish artist Natalia Rak’s “Adventure Time,” a mural of a young girl opening a door to a psychedelic world. All these pieces are part of the Avenue Concept , the city’s first privately administered public art program. Founded in 2012, it has installed more than 150 works of art, encouraging locals and travelers alike to get out and explore the city. (A map plotting every artwork is viewable at the Avenue Concept’s website .)

“I founded the Avenue Concept to bridge the gap between the creative sector in Providence and the municipal side,” says executive director Yarrow Thorne. “A lot of artists and designers didn’t have a way to connect with developers and the larger entities in the city.” The Avenue Concept celebrates the city’s diversity by making it visible. “There are 15 wards that make up Providence, and most have their own languages, foods, and culture,” Thorne says. “What would the walls say if they could talk?”

One recent answer to that question is a mural by the Baltimore-based artist Gaia. Close to Weybosset Street—which shares its name with an indigenous footpath and a trading post that later became one of the first customhouses in America—the mural’s site is also its muse.

The Avenue Concept partnered with the Tomaquag Museum in nearby Exeter to research the mural location’s past. Lynsea Montanari, a Narragansett tribal member and an educator at the museum, collaborated with Gaia and is featured in the mural holding a picture of Princess Red Wing, an elder from her tribe who founded the Tomaquag Museum 61 years ago.

“It was really fascinating to learn about our indigenous population and how a lot of that community is very active within Rhode Island,” Thorne says. “Rarely do you see Native Americans depicted in the everyday clothing they wear when they go to work or live their lives. The mural of Lynsea wearing her normal clothes was an interesting perspective that has opened up a conversation on many levels.” —CELIA SHATZMAN

Photos by Jason Varney and Kim Smith

Buffalo, New York

Western New York offers more than just Niagara Falls and chicken wings. Visit for monumental architecture, a rejuvenated waterfront, and a food hall that’s a veritable United Nations of cuisine.

A river runs through it: Downtown Buffalo ’s revival has centered on the $300 million redevelopment of the Canalside waterfront. The calendar for the ambitious public works project is packed year-round, which offers kayaking, history tours, and concerts in the warmer months and curling, ice biking, and ice bumper cars in winter. This spring, entertain your young at Explore & More , a 43,000-square-foot children’s museum debuting at Canalside, or drive five minutes south to another big waterfront attraction: Buffalo RiverWorks. Here, teens and teens in spirit can swing like monkeys through a high ropes course and then whiz down a zip line strung up between disused grain silos.

Sleep in a former mental hospital: The 147-year-old Richardson Olmsted Campus , a National Historic Landmark formerly known as the Buffalo State Asylum for the Insane, is now home to the city’s smartest boutique inn: the 88-room Hotel Henry. Airy king suites have vaulted 20-foot ceilings with exposed brick and original beams, plus elegant touches such as freestanding bathtubs and walls decorated in local art.

Catnip for art and architecture lovers: Also coming this spring to the Richardson Olmsted campus: the Lipsey Architecture Center of Buffalo , an interactive exhibition space that shares the stories of the region’s most celebrated buildings. Any tour should include Louis Sullivan’s Guaranty Building, an early American skyscraper prototype; Shea’s Buffalo Theatre, with the only surviving Tiffany-designed theater interior; as well as Graycliff and the recently restored Darwin D. Martin House Complex, two of Frank Lloyd Wright’s most important designs. The art scene is anchored by the 157-year-old Albright-Knox Art Gallery , which hosts progressive exhibitions, and SUNY’s Burchfield Penney Art Center , which surfaces regional talent.

When wings aren’t your thing: Is it possible to talk about Buffalo without talking chicken wings? Yes, it is. And you should, because chicken-wing stalwarts Duff’s and Anchor Bar are just the grand marshals in a whole parade of deliciousness. Creative bakeries abound ( BreadHive Bakery & Cafe , Five Points Bakery ), as do third-wave coffee shops ( Remedy House , Tipico Coffee ). At the long-running West Side Bazaar food hall, entrepreneurial immigrants and refugees turn out authentic Lao, Burmese, and Ethiopian dishes from narrow kiosks. At the Dapper Goose , you’ve got beetroot tartines and Korean fried chicken lighting up the plate. The wood-burning oven works overtime at the Grange Community Kitchen , sliding out perfectly charred pizzas topped with delicata squash and caciocavallo cheese. Challenging cocktails such as the Bitter AF, a throat-scalding combo of amaro, fernet, and absinthe, can be found at Buffalo Proper, a slick bar in the theater district, while over at Sato Brewpub , a Japanese-style izakaya, pint glasses are frothing over with miso cream ale and pear ginger saison. Lastly, you gotta carb-load breakfast at Swan Street Diner , an 82-year-old prefab that was treated to a bottom-to-top restoration after being transplanted to Buffalo from Akron, Ohio. The cinnamon mini-doughnuts are mind-bendingly tasty. —ASHLEA HALPERN

Photo by Aubrie Pick/Revival Baltimore

Baltimore, Maryland

A slate of new hotels and restaurants caters to visitors drawn to a thrumming cultural scene that gets stronger with the opening of each new gallery and bookshop. And now you can taste the freshest Guinness this side of Dublin.

Where to stay: The city’s first art-focused boutique hotel, Revival , opened its doors last May amid the brownstones of Baltimore’s leafy Mount Vernon neighborhood. Set in a former Baltimore Museum of Art exhibition space, the hotel’s 107 rooms are filled with works by local and established artists, plus chic touches such as vintage rugs and midcentury light fixtures. Other newish lodging options include the 128-room Sagamore Pendry Baltimore , a historic warehouse in Fell’s Point that once served as a landing point for thousands of immigrants; today, it’s a dreamy hangout for locals who gather at the Cannon Room whiskey bar and Rec Pier Chop House restaurant. Also, downtown, there’s the Ivy Hotel , whose 18 rooms occupy an elegantly restored 19th-century mansion.

Where to eat: Take in the 29th-floor view at the Bygone , the Gatsby-inspired hangout on top of the Four Seasons Hotel , which specializes in tableside-carved steaks and caviar service. The seats here look out over Baltimore’s aquarium and the Domino Sugar factory in the Inner Harbor, and Camden Yards. Downtown’s newest darling, the down-to-earth French bistro Chez Hugo , serves ruby-red steak in green peppercorn sauce. Longtime Fell’s Point favorite Peter’s Inn recently reopened after a fire and serves such dishes as smoked bluefish pâté smeared on hearty pumpernickel bread. There’s also a spate of new restaurants by New York City chefs who celebrate American classics through a Mid-Atlantic lens. Andrew Carmellini’s Rye Street Tavern serves daily crab specials, and the Turn House , owned and run by Thomas Zippelli, offers oyster mushroom tacos and other seasonally inspired dishes.

Where to drink: From his neon sign in Brewers Hill, Mr. Boh, the one-eyed, mustachioed mascot of locally popular beer National Bohemian , watches over a more diverse drinking landscape than he used to. In August 2018, Guinness opened its first stateside brewery and taproom since the last one closed down in 1954. It’s on the site once occupied by Maryland’s first post-Prohibition distillery. Ten minutes north of downtown, the warehouse complex Union Collective opened last summer in the Hamden-Medfield neighborhood, anchored by the taproom and beer garden at Union Craft Brewing . Baltimore Spirits Co. also makes its whiskey, brandy, and gin on site. Round out an evening of living large at the Elk Room in Harbor East, a modern speakeasy with an unmarked entrance.

Where to read: Print is alive and well in Edgar Allan Poe’s beloved city, where the long-running annual Baltimore Book Festival presents more than 200 celebrity and local authors, plus a host of readings, workshops, and panel discussions. The next festival, slated for early November, is being combined with Baltimore’s popular Light City festival, during which fantastically lit-up art is installed along 1.5 miles of city waterfront. In the meantime, swing by the newly opened Co_Lab Books, a highly curated architecture- and design-focused bookstore in the historic Old Goucher neighborhood. And don’t miss Red Emma’s in midtown, the popular worker-run collective bookstore and café that doubled in size last October. Come for the organic, ethically sourced coffee; stay for the author talks on Black Lives Matter, feminism, and other timely topics. If you’re still looking for a book that suits you, you’ll likely find it at Greedy Reads , a cozy independent bookstore that set up shop in Fell’s Point last March. Be sure to say hi to Audie, the owner’s labrador-greyhound mix.

Where to see, hear, and make art: Every first-time visitor to the city should explore the whimsical American Visionary Art Museum , which opened in 1995 and is dedicated to self-taught artists. Once you’ve done that, investigate the newer additions to the city’s creative community. Resort is a downtown contemporary gallery that provides a spotlight for emerging as well as established avant-garde artists. The crates at Hare’s Breath Records , in Fell’s Point, are filled with thousands of new and used vinyl discs of all genres, including limited-edition experimental recordings put out by the Hare’s Breath label. For a more hands-on experience, learn how to knot a macramé wall hanging and handstamp a set of tea towels at Maker Practice studio in nearby Catonsville, or take a candle-making workshop at the Homegrown Baltimore co-op in Harbor East. The boutique and workshop space are operated by a handful of local companies owned by women. —RACHEL TEPPER PALEY

Photos by Gemma Ingalls and Bonjwing Lee/Blackberry Mountain

The Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Blackberry Mountain, the new sister property of a beloved East Tennessee retreat, is both a passion project and an ode to nature.

When Mary Celeste Beall opened Blackberry Mountain in Walland, Tennessee, in February, she gave the world a piece of her family’s private Eden. She was also carrying out the vision of her late husband, Sam.

“His goal was to make Blackberry Mountain a place where people could connect intergenerationally,” Beall says of Sam, with whom she had five children. “I love that my in-laws or my parents can take my six-year-old on a one-mile hike, or I can do an incredible 10-mile hike with my 21-year-old.”

Located close to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Blackberry Mountain is a 5,200-acre parcel of land that the Bealls purchased more than a decade ago. In 2016, when Sam died at age 39 in a skiing accident, Mary Celeste vowed to continue his legacy. Sam was raised at Blackberry Farm, a separate 4,200-acre tract of land eight miles away from Blackberry Mountain, which his parents turned into a small B&B in 1976. He trained as a chef, studying at the French Laundry in Yountville, California, before returning home in 1999 to reinvent Blackberry Farm as a world-class retreat for foodies.

Blackberry Mountain shares the Farm’s culinary DNA but puts outdoor adventures and wellness centerstage. Five fitness studios offer spinning, yoga, Pilates, and other classes, and there’s a gymnasium with a rock climbing wall and a subterranean spa with eight treatment rooms.

Eighteen stone cottages and six cozy watchman cabins were built with reclaimed oak sourced from the mountain and outfitted with wood-burning stoves or fireplaces. A private 25-mile network of hiking and biking trails passes through forested land. Scattered among the paths are shelters where guests can practice yoga or enjoy lavish picnics arranged by the hotel’s kitchen team.

The flagship Three Sisters restaurant, located in the main lodge, is overseen by Tennessee-born Josh Feathers, the former corporate chef at the Farm. The menu highlights regional ingredients, such as whole roasted North Carolina trout. Closer to the 2,800-foot summit, Firetower restaurant was built next to a 1940s-era fire tower and serves breakfast and lunch featuring such dishes as Thai-style mussels, Mediterranean flatbread, and Farm-made salami. For a 360-degree view that takes in the adjacent national park, guests can climb the restored fire tower’s original stairway and take a peek from the lookout station.

“I can imagine [Sam] riding his bike all over the mountain,” Mary Celeste says. “He would have ended his ride with a meal at the Firetower and a great bottle of wine, looking out over the park. He would have loved that.” From $995, including meals and morning wellness classes. —JENNIFER FLOWERS

Photo by Hu Hotel

Memphis, Tennessee

The Home of the Blues turns 200 this year, and the city is getting spruced up to celebrate.

Memphis is a strong contender for the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll⎯as evidenced by Sun and Stax recording studios (both now museums), and, of course, Graceland ⎯and has made solid contributions to the country’s barbecue pantheon. Still, for many travelers, it has remained in the shadow of its larger-than-life Southern siblings Nashville , Charleston , and New Orleans . Memphis hopes to change that with this year’s bicentennial. To celebrate its 200th birthday, major infrastructure investments have been made along the Mississippi River and throughout the downtown area. It’s all part of the citywide Bicentennial Gateway Project, designed to “help people see something amazing when they cross the river,” says Paul Young, the city’s director of housing and community development. Here are five things to look for.

A redesigned waterfront: The Memphis riverfront is what most people see first when they enter the city via the Hernando de Soto Bridge over the mighty Mississippi. To reimagine and reconnect a riverfront that is presently divided into five separate parks, Memphis River Parks Partnership is teaming up with the architecture firm Studio Gang. Already under way, the plan includes revitalizing Mud Island (actually a peninsula), Tom Lee Park , and Greenbelt Park with trails, playgrounds, outdoor sculptures, and event spaces. These will complement the recently redone Beale Street Landing , where the riverboats dock, and the River Garden at Mississippi River Park, which features an event pavilion, a whimsical tree house, and human-size driftwood bird nests that visitors can sit inside to rest or play. The revitalized riverfront will be better equipped to host major events such as the Memphis in May International Festival , which honors the culture of a different country every year. This spring, however, Memphis in May will pay tribute to Memphis itself, with a Beale Street Music Festival , a World Championship BBQ Contest , and other events.

The Pinch District revival: Until 2004, the Pyramid was Memphis’s gigantic basketball arena. After sitting vacant for more than a decade, the glass pyramid was refashioned as a Bass Pro Shop—complete with lakes, a cypress swamp, bridges, 100-foot-tall trees, a wilderness hotel, two restaurants, a bowling alley, and an aquarium. It’s now the anchor of the Pinch District , where plans are underway to add even more family-friendly shops, restaurants, hotels, and residences.

Even more music and nightlife: Most tourists make a beeline to boppin’ Beale Street, but locals can often be found at venues such as Hi Tone , a rock club in the revitalized Crosstown; historic Lafayette’s Music Room in Overton Square, which has been open since the ’70s, when it hosted the likes of Billy Joel and Big Star; Wild Bill’s red-lit haunt for authentic blues; and Bar DKDC for eclectic decor, food, and music. If you’re looking for vinyl, head to Goner Records or Shangri-La Records . For a drink, swing by Old Dominick Distillery ⎯opened in 2017 as the first distillery in Memphis to make whiskey since before Prohibition⎯or head to midtown to check out Railgarten , an indoor-outdoor version of a beer garden with music, ping-pong tables, and an ice cream shop.

Barbecue and beyond: You can’t be in Memphis and not eat barbecue—check out A&R Bar-B-Que , Tops Bar-B-Q , Payne’s Bar-B-Q , and Charlie Vergos’s Rendezvous , to name a few—but after you’ve had your fill of chicken and ribs, try the Gray Canary in the South Main Arts district, a new American restaurant from James Beard Award nominees Andy Ticer and Michael Hudman. Also check out Lucky Cat Ramen and Elemento Neapolitan Pizza , which bring authentic renditions of their eponymous foods to the city.

Hotels to call home: A slew of new accommodations will soon join the recently opened Hu Hotel , housed in a 1905 Beaux-Arts-style building with a coffee-and-cocktail bar, an all-day restaurant serving Southern grub, and a rooftop bar with views of the Mississippi River. Later this year, the Central Station Memphis hotel opens inside the city’s 105-year-old train station. And in a 1916 warehouse in the South Main Street Arts District, Arrive Memphis will debut 62 industrial-chic rooms, a doughnut shop, and Longshot, a gastropub with Memphis beers on tap and a stage for live music. Near the convention center a Hotel Indigo just opened, and a Moxy hotel and a 550-room Loews are coming soon. —DEVORAH LEV-TOV

Photos by Castle & Key Distillery/GLINTstudios/The Malicotes

Lexington, Kentucky

Impassioned entrepreneurs have helped make a bourbon-themed Kentucky road trip a new American classic.

Of all the things Kentucky is famous for (thoroughbred racing, bluegrass, college basketball), bourbon is the biggest draw today. New craft distilleries and inspired chefs are breathing life into a region that has been distilling the spirit since the American Revolution. “It’s a really exciting time to be in Lexington,” says James Beard Award–nominated chef Ouita Michel, owner of eight restaurants, including the Thirsty Fox bourbon bar at Zim’s Cafe downtown and Glenn’s Creek Café at Woodford Reserve near Versailles. “In the last 15 years, there has been a steady beat of bootstrapping in the community by young chefs, brewers, and distillers launching projects,” Michel explains. In her own kitchens, Michel incorporates the homegrown spirit into such dishes as bourbon-brined squab, sharp white cheddar cheese spread, and bourbon-honey ice cream. “It’s like brandy in French cooking,” she says.

For travelers, there is no shortage of ways to sample the bourbon scene. The historic James E. Pepper Distilling Co ., named for the master distiller of the Pepper bourbon dynasty, has been painstakingly resurrected by whiskey entrepreneur Amir Peay after sitting vacant for 50 years. As the anchor of Lexington’s 25-acre Distillery District, it shares a campus with another traditional bourbon maker ( Barrel House Distillery ), a craft brewery ( Ethereal Brewing ), buzzy restaurants ( Middle Fork , Goodfellas Pizzeria ), an ice cream lounge ( Crank & Boom ), two concert venues ( Manchester Music Hall and the Burl ), and artists’ studios.

Two well-organized distillery trails can guide you on multiday adventures beyond Lexington. The 14-stop Kentucky Bourbon Trail takes you to such stalwart heritage brands as Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Wild Turkey, and Four Roses. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, by contrast, includes 13 microdistilleries making small-batch bourbons.

Another must-see is the new 113-acre Castle & Key estate, a restoration and update of Colonel E. H. Taylor Jr.’s legendary distillery in Frankfort. “We’re producing bourbon that honors Old Taylor’s legacy, using the same limestone aquifer with similar yeast strains and recipes,” says Marianne Eaves, Castle & Key’s master distiller. Visitors can book a tour to experience the production process and sample flights of house-made gin and vodka (the first batches of bourbon are still aging). Just leave plenty of time to meander through the botanical garden and admire the green pastures of the nearby horse farms. Booze aside, it’s these timeless landscapes that really put Kentucky on the map. —NORA WALSH

Photo by Hunger Street Tacos/Artful Life Studios

Orlando, Florida

There’s more to eat in Orlando than Mickey Bars and Bloomin’ Onions. To find the tastiest grub, look to the city’s flourishing immigrant communities.

To many, Orlando conjures images of mouse ears, tourists, and I-4 corridor strip malls. But a closer look reveals one of Florida’s most diverse cities: According to U.S. census data, nearly one in five Orlando residents is foreign born, and more than one-third speak a language other than English at home. As new immigrants from Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean settle across Central Florida, they bring along their own cuisines; but it’s the culinary hybrids that best express the city’s mosaic of food culture.

Orlando’s Mills 50 district—also known as Little Saigon—welcomed an influx of Asian immigrants in the 1970s and remains the heart of the Vietnamese community. Its bánh mì joints and pho houses spread across 10 blocks on downtown’s Colonial Drive, but Viet-Nomz , which opened its second location farther east on Colonial Drive in 2018, updates the classics with inventive takes on tradition: crispy tofu tacos with lemongrass soy, Wa-Pho fries (waffle fries topped with pickled carrots, daikon, cilantro, and spicy mayo sauce), and sticky fish sauce–glazed wings.

The murals at Hunger Street Tacos in Winter Park, designed by Lapiztola, a Oaxacan artist cooperative, and Los Angeles–born artist Liseth Amaya, reflect Mexican traditions, as do such menu items as Campechano brisket quesadillas and bone marrow and mushroom sopes made with blue corn masa.

However, the restaurant’s founders, Joe and David Creech, brothers whose parents served as missionaries in Mexico, and Joe’s wife, Seydi, who is Mexican, also offer weekly specials that put fresh spins on familiar concepts. Dishes such as vegan chickpea tlacoyos, pescado a la talla grilled over Japanese-style binchō-tan coals, and grilled cheese tacos with halloumi, mint, and serrano-lime salsa favor flavor over custom.

Also noteworthy is Orlando’s Puerto Rican community, which has expanded greatly since Hurricane Maria in 2017 displaced thousands to the Sunshine State. You can reap the edible benefits at a handful of new eateries. At Pig Floyd’s Urban Barbakoa , located in a white-brick A-frame cottage shaded by live oaks draped in Spanish moss, Thomas Ward adds international flavors to his signature Florida barbecue. Don’t miss bento boxes stuffed with pineapple chopped chicken or Mongolian brisket, plus such sides as apple fennel slaw or jasmine rice and Cuban black beans. Butter chicken tacos and the Mills 50 Cheesesteak with oakwood-smoked brisket and house-made pimento cheese are delicious cultural fusions.

If it’s more traditional Puerto Rican fare you crave, track down Piñones en Orlando , a food truck that offers fried red snapper, mofongo (fried plantains stuffed with pork, chicken, or seafood), jugo de parcha (passion fruit juice), and cooling conch salads. It’s a small world—with a big appetite—after all. —ADAM H. GRAHAM

Photos by Audrey Ma and Benoit Linero/NoMad Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

So long, Céline Dion. Hello, Lady Gaga. Whatever’s hot, chances are it will show up in early-adopting Las Vegas, as this year’s crop of glittering openings demonstrates.

Where to play: Order a Neapolitan pizza, catch a cooking demo, or shop for aged balsamic vinegar at the new 40,000-square-foot Eataly in a can’t-miss-it location at the entrance of the Park MGM. For something a bit wilder—a bit more Vegas—try the 10-person zip line at Fly LINQ . Sit side by side with your friends as you cruise 114 feet above the LINQ Promenade (pictured below), a busy shopping and entertainment district. Of course, you also need to see a show. Céline Dion wraps up her 15-year Caesars Palace residency this June, and Lady Gaga has launched her reign at the Park MGM, performing pop shows with a handful of “Jazz and Piano” sets sprinkled in.

Where to stay: The biggest hotel news is the opening of the NoMad LasVegas on the top four floors of the Park MGM. French designer Jacques Garcia appointed the 293 rooms with pedestal bathtubs, leather headboards, and minibars made from steamer trunks. The casino sits beneath a ceiling of Tiffany glass. With NoMad Restaurant (pictured above, right) and NoMad Bar, chef Daniel Humm and restaurateur Will Guidara, who also partnered on New York’s acclaimed Eleven Madison Park restaurant, make culinary magnets out of thehotel’s salon-like public spaces. The specialty: shareable cocktails and communal courses such as steak tartare and fruits de mer. Come spring, visitors can expect a pool deck trimmed in blue tile and cabanas inspired by the Majorelle Garden in Marrakesh. From $199.

Where to eat: The delicious newcomers at the Cosmopolitan Las Vegas include the Cantonese Red Plate (which serves dim sum, roasted meats, and fresh seafood) and Block 16 Urban Food Hall , home to a new branch of Hattie B’s Hot Chicken from Nashville, Pok Pok Wing from Portland’s Andy Ricker, and New York City mezcal and tequila bar Ghost Donkey. Superchef Roy Choi unites Vegas and his hometown of Los Angeles with Best Friend at the Park MGM, which serves Koreatown tacos and rice bowls into the wee hours. (The fried bologna sandwich, street dog, and fries are pictured above, at left.) At the Venetian, Hong Kong favorite Mott 32 does Peking duck and honey-glazed Ibérico pork in a Joyce Wang–designed den with glittering neon signs. —ELAINE GLUSAC

Photo by Lisa Corson

Palm Springs, California

Beyond the golf courses and the swimming pools, good design permeates Palm Springs. A boom in new and renovated hotels makes it easier than ever to escape.

Set in the Coachella Valley of California’s Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs is known for its midcentury modern architecture and beautiful landscapes. But it’s also a bona fide design hub. “Historically, artists, designers, and architects have found inspiration and refuge in the desert,” says Jenny Gil, executive director of Desert X , a 10-week biennial art festival that runs from February to April in the Coachella Valley. For this year’s festival, more than 15 international artists were invited to create site-specific installations that contemplate the desert’s stark surroundings.

Running concurrently in February is Modernism Week , dedicated to the appreciation of the modernist residences and other structures erected during the 1950s and ’60s. The schedule includes tours, talks, and installations such as a full-scale replica of architect Paul Rudolph’s iconic 1952 Walker Guest House.

Some of the city’s most compelling modernist buildings can only be admired from the street; others, like the Albert Frey House II , are open for tours. Or you could spend the night: The 28-room Holiday House hotel, which opened in 1951, was recently overhauled, and artworks by David Hockney and Roy Lichtenstein hang on its crisp blue walls. Farther southeast, in Indian Wells, the Sands Hotel and Spa , built in the late 1950s, is a dusky-pink Moroccan-inspired hotel newly restyled by interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard.

But the Palm Springs hotel design buzz goes beyond midcentury modern. La Serena Villas , a Spanish-style property from 1933, features 18 bright, spacious villas recently redeveloped by architect May Sung. And the Andaz , a new glass-fronted hotel, is set to open in downtown Palm Springs in April.

Cool culinary offerings have arrived along with these new and revamped lodgings. Wexler’s Deli, a Los Angeles deli known for its smoked fish and New York–style bagels, opened an outpost at the Arrive Hotel last fall. Directly across the street, chef Engin Onural’s Sandfish serves elegant sushi and high-end Japanese whiskeys. At the nearby Kimpton Rowan Hotel , the glass-encased 4 Saints bar and restaurant serves such seasonal plates as house-made cavatelli and filet mignon with foie gras. Beyond downtown, at the Jonathan Adler–designed Parker Hotel , the intimate 18-seat wine bar Counter Reformation pours an extensive collection of wines accompanied by great tapas (shucked oysters and sautéed hen of the woods mushrooms, finished off with a foie gras macaron, for instance).

All of this has become more accessible to travelers throughout the country thanks to new non-stop air service from major cities including New York, Boston, and Atlanta. In other words, Palm Springs has never been hotter. —MARY HOLLAND

Photos by Kamonegi/Suzi Pratt and Amber Fouts

Seattle, Washington

The first wave of Japanese immigrants came to Seattle in the 1880s. Today, you can immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant Japanese American culture by eating, drinking, temple-hopping, and more—no passport required.

Stay here: To sleep where history was made, book a no-frills room at the 109-year-old Panama Hotel . An inn and teahouse built by Japanese American architect Sabro Ozasa, it housed laborers in the part of Seattle’s International District known as Nihonmachi, or Japantown. During World War II, local residents stored their belongings there when they were forced into internment camps. Guided tours of the sento, the last intact Japanese bathhouse in the United States, are available upon request—sorry, no bathing allowed.

Learn from the past: In 1942, Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 9066 forcibly incarcerated more than 120,000 Japanese and Japanese Americans. The exhibit of artifacts from the permanent collection at the Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience addresses these grave injustices and draws parallels between the persecution of the Japanese during World War II and the discrimination Muslim Americans and other marginalized groups face today. The museum, located in the International District, also trades in lighter fare: In “Worlds Beyond Here,” an exhibition running through September 15, curators dive into contributions to the science fiction realm made by Asian Pacific Americans such as Star Trek actor George Takei and sculptor June Sekiguchi.

Commune with nature: Kubota Garden is the pièce de résistance of master landscaper Fujitaro Kubota, who modeled its 20 acres after Japanese gardens but planted them with greenery native to the Northwest. After you’ve strolled its paths flanked with weeping spruce and spring-fed ponds, hop over to Kobe Terrace Park in the International District, a gift to Seattle from its sister city, Kobe; it has knockout views of Elliott Bay and the downtown skyline, plus an explosion of colorful Japanese cherry trees in spring.

Eat, drink, and eat some more: Whether you’re sampling delicate nigiri at Mashiko , the first fully sustainable sushi bar in Seattle; tucking into a bowl of handmade Nihachi-style soba noodles at Mutsuko Soma’s Kamonegi ; or unhinging your lower jaw to chomp on a deep-fried tonkatsu burger at Hajime Sato’s culty microchain Katsu Burger , you’ll have discovered the city’s broad range of Japanese eats. Just be sure to save room for dessert. At Fuji Bakery that might mean adzuki doughnuts and green tea Danishes. At Tokara , chef Chika Tokara specializes in wagashi, traditional Kyoto sweets made with seasonal ingredients such as sweet potato, chestnut, and persimmon. They’re almost too pretty to eat. Almost.

Veer off the tourist track: Observe one of the twice-weekly practices at Seattle Dojo , the first judo dojo in North America; stop by the serene Seattle Koyasan Buddhist Temple for chanting and moon meditation; or make reservations to experience an ancient tea ceremony at the East-West Chanoyu Center , a nonprofit founded 38 years ago by the Urasenke Foundation of Kyoto. At Neko, A Cat Cafe , a Tokyo-style petting café in trendy Capitol Hill, you can cuddle adoptable felines with names like Mochi and Matcha. Or, for a slice of old-school Japantown, sidle up to the bar at Bush Garden , a divey ex-sukiyaki joint known for its wild late-night karaoke boozeathons.

Don’t forget the souvenirs! You can always drop a bundle on cheap housewares and cosmetics at Daiso , a stateside satellite of the popular Japanese 100-yen shop, but more distinctive finds, including handmade textiles and porcelain tableware, await at KOBO . The Japanese art boutique is housed in the former Higo Variety Store, an elder statesman of Nihonmachi and a historically significant gathering place for Japanese Americans in the aftermath of World War II. Hosekibako, located within the Japanese Cultural and Community Center of Washington , is a volunteer-run thrift shop reselling kimonos, wooden kokeshi dolls, and lacquerware. For something more modern, get fitted for your new favorite jeans at Blue Owl Workshop , a purveyor of rare Japanese selvedge denim; scout for manga at Kinokuniya bookstore, housed within Uwajimaya Village , a sprawling complex of Asian specialty products and groceries; or raid the racks at Tuesday , the storefront studio of half-Japanese fashion designer Rian Robison, who hand-dyes, cuts, and sews her own line of edgy, kimono-inspired clothing. —ASHLEA HALPERN

Photo by Simone Anne

Mendocino, California

When the hurry and dash of San Francisco start to overwhelm, head north. It doesn’t get much chiller than Mendocino County.

Spring on the Mendocino coast offers the promise of gray whale sightings and Indian paintbrush blooming on the cliffs. The winding, three-and-a-half-hour drive from San Francisco rewards you with a backdrop of soaring redwoods set against the Pacific and a stillness that encourages travelers to unplug and recharge.

Begin by exploring the seaside town of Mendocino on foot. On weekends, Café Beaujolais serves wood-fired pizzas at picnic tables in the garden. A mile south is glamping spot Mendocino Grove , 37 acres with hiking trails, canoes, and morning yoga classes, plus all the comforts of a hotel: luxurious tents with beds, heated mattress pads, and Wi-Fi.

Once a bustling lumber settlement, the town of Elk, 17 miles south of Mendocino, is worth visiting for its driftwood-strewn state beach and the newly reopened Harbor House Inn . The remodeled 103-year-old property features private fireplaces, on-site massages, and a secluded beach and waterfall. At the inn’s restaurant, Matthew Kammerer, formerly of the three-Michelin-star San Francisco restaurant Saison, keeps things local. He uses ingredients sourced within 50 miles in dishes such as abalone with Mendocino wild rice and seaweed from the cove.

Southeast of Elk on Route 128 in the heart of the Anderson Valley is Philo, a hamlet known for its tasting rooms as well as the new Poleeko Roadhouse. The menu showcases heritage pork and slow-smoked meats. At Pennyroyal Farm , a winery and creamery in the neighboring town of Boonville, you can tour the vineyard and solar-powered barn, meet the dairy goats and sheep, and taste pairings of the house-made cheeses with estate wines. Grab some of the farm’s gold medal–winning Bollie’s Mollies cheese and a bottle of rosé to enjoy Mendocino for just a bit longer. —SUSANNAH CHEN

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

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Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Alya and Campbell

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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?

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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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19 Best Weekend Getaways from Dallas (Fun Road Trip Ideas!)

Planning a quick escape from the city and looking for the best weekend getaways from Dallas?

From small towns to state parks to funky cities, we’ve rounded up the best road trips from Dallas (or Fort Worth) here!

With one exception, each of these Dallas weekend getaway ideas is located between 3 and 8 hours from Dallas, making these destinations ideal for trips that last 1-3 nights away (if you’re looking for destinations a bit closer to Dallas, check out our guide to the best day trips from Dallas here ).

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a weekend full of family memories, an adventure with friends, or even a solo escape, one of these weekend getaways from Dallas is no doubt right for you.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Best Cities for Weekend Getaways from Dallas

The capital of Texas and self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World is the perfect weekend trip from Dallas for those looking to keep things just a little weird.

Take a dip in one of Austin’s many nearby natural swimming holes , go hunting for street art on South Congress, tour the Texas State Capitol Building, watch the sunset at Mount Bonnell, escape to the Texas Hill Country for the day, and of course enjoy plenty of nightlife!

With a huge variety of fun things to do, Austin is perfect for travelers looking for a great mix of city fun and outdoor adventure.

Driving Distance from Dallas

New Orleans, LA

Featuring some of the best food, music, and culture in all of the country, having a city as incredible as NOLA reachable as a road trip from Dallas is definitely something to take advantage of!

While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Bourbon Street, but get off of it, as well: NOLA is more than just its incredible partying (though the partying does indeed live up to the legends).

Consider visiting the Garden District, taking a ghost tour, visiting the nearby bayou, taking a steamboat cruise, and of course, eating plenty of excellent food, from po’boys to beignets, during the course of your weekend getaway in New Orleans .

7 hours, 45 minutes.

San Antonio, TX

As the most-visited city in all of Texas, San Antonio knows how to show visitors a good time, and it is absolutely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Be sure to visit the famous Alamo, as well as the rest of the San Antonio Missions.

All five missions, including the Alamo, are recognized together as a UNESCO World Heritage Site–the only UNESCO site that exists in Texas!

You’ll also want to sample the Riverwalk, of course, as well as visit the San Fernando Cathedral, go shopping at the Historic Market Square and in La Villita, and visit one of San Antonio’s incredible museums.

When driving from Dallas to San Antonio , you’ll also find plenty to do along the way–if you have time, consider adding a pitstop in Waco or Austin to your trip!

Oklahoma City, OK

Oklahoma City may not be what you immediately think of when considering getting away from Dallas for a weekend, but this smaller city to the north offers a surprising number of things to see and do!

Consider visiting the Bricktown entertainment district, checking out the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, strolling through the beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens, and paying your respects at the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Head a bit north of the city, and you’ll quickly find yourself on Route 66, with quirky roadside attractions like the Arcadia Round Barn within easy reach.

3 hours, 15 minutes.

Houston, TX

As the 4th-largest city in the USA, Houston is positively packed with interesting things to do, starting with its most famous attraction of all: the incredible Johnson Space Center!

Once you finish up at the Space Center, though, there’s still plenty to see in Houston, including several parks to visit, an enormous number of museums and art galleries, and plenty of delicious food to eat–Houston is home to one of the best (and most diverse) food scenes in Texas!

Want to squeeze in a quick trip to the beach?

With some careful planning, you can enjoy some time on the sand in Galveston into your weekend in Houston!

3 hours, 30 minutes.

Located on the Arkansas River–and more importantly, along Route 66–Tulsa is an unexpectedly fun place to spend a weekend!

This unexpectedly charming city is complete with Art Deco architecture, plenty of interesting museums (don’t miss the stunningly beautiful Philbrook Museum of Art), and the fun Blue Dome District.

Want to see some classic Route 66 quirkiness while you’re there?

The famous Blue Whale of Catoosa is just outside the city!

4 hours, 30 minutes.

Nature-Focused Road Trips from Dallas

Palo duro canyon state park, tx.

The second-largest canyon in the USA is reachable as a weekend trip from Dallas–and it’s one of the coolest places in all of Texas!

While you’re there, be sure to soak in the excellent views from the top of the canyon, drive the park loop road, and hike a couple of trails. Most importantly, be sure to hike to the Lighthouse formation!

It’s the most famous formation in the park for good reason.

Colorado Bend State Park, TX

Want to feel like you’ve left Texas behind… without actually leaving Texas?

Staring up at 70-foot Gorman Falls can definitely have that effect: this stunning living waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas, and looks more like it belongs in Hawaii than in the Lone Star State!

Come to Colorado Bend State Park for hiking, swimming, and beautiful views in the heart of Texas.

Carlsbad Caverns National Park, NM

Located in southeastern New Mexico, Carlsbad Cavern is one of the most impressive caves in the USA.

It’s one of the most unique weekend getaways from Dallas!

While you can tour the main cavern, including the aptly-named Big Room, in a single day, with some extra time you can also add some more hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert to your trip… or you can combine your Dallas road trip to New Mexico with our next destination in this guide.

7 hours, 15 minutes.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park, TX

Set just south of the New Mexico border in west Texas–only half an hour from Carlsbad Caverns National Park–sits the beautiful Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

Here, you can find the four highest peaks in Texas and some excellent hiking , making it another fantastic option for weekend getaways from Dallas.

If you happen to be planning your road trip in the fall, Guadalupe Mountains National Park also happens to be home to some of the prettiest fall foliage in Texas !

Lake Texoma, TX/OK

Located right on the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma is a doable day trip from Dallas but definitely deserves to be called out in any guide cataloging road trips from Dallas, as it’s absolutely one of the most popular weekend getaways for locals.

Popular for fishing, swimming, boating, and hiking, Lake Texoma is a fun outdoor getaway for the whole family!

1 hour, 40 minutes.

Hot Springs National Park, AR

Aptly named Hot Springs National Park is the perfect Dallas getaway destination for those looking for a relaxing weekend away, complete with a soak in a thermal spa!

Located in an urban setting surrounded by shops, restaurants, and more, Hot Springs offers a fantastic mix of natural highlights and small-town charm.

Nine historic bathhouses line Bathhouse Row, where visitors flocked to enjoy the local hot springs in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, two of which you can still take a soak in today!

Broken Bow, OK

As the gateway to beautiful Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow is one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas for those looking for a quiet retreat into nature near a small town.

While in Broken Bow, you can go canoeing on the lake, take a hike, stay in a cozy cabin, and enjoy a relaxing trip that feels worlds away from the city.

Best Small-Town Weekend Trips from Dallas

Fredericksburg, tx.

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg is definitely one of the best weekend getaways from Dallas!

Featuring plenty of nods to its German heritage, a beautiful downtown packed with shops and restaurants, great antiquing, and–most famously of all– plenty of easily accessible wineries to choose from, Fredericksburg is a fantastic change of pace from Dallas.

The town is also easily accessible to plenty of hiking (including Enchanted Rock ) and other beautiful small Texas towns (like Luckenbach , Johnson City , and Wimberley ).

4 hours, 15 minutes.

Round Top, TX

The tiny town of Round Top, Texas, is best known for its antique shows … but you can shop thousands of antiques, meander through a small town, and enjoy the famous (and delicious) pies at Royers Pie Haven year-round on a Dallas weekend getaway to Round Top!

Don’t miss Henkel Square Market or Rummel Square while you’re there!

And, if you’re into unique roadside stops on your road trips from Dallas, don’t miss the charming nearby St. Martin Catholic Church, which is considered the smallest Catholic church on Earth!

3 hours, 45 minutes.

Long known as the home of Baylor University, Waco has become one of the most popular road trips from Dallas in recent years for a very different reason: the opening of Magnolia Market, owned by Chip & Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame.

Even beyond the immensely popular Silos, though, Waco has plenty to see!

Consider also stopping by the Dr. Pepper Museum, enjoying Baylor’s beautiful campus, and checking out the Wooly Mammoth National Monument during your visit.

1 hour, 30 minutes.

Jefferson, TX

The small town of Jefferson, Texas, combined with nearby Caddo Lake State Park, makes one of the best and most diverse Dallas getaway ideas (for the lovebirds out there, it’s arguably one of the most romantic getaways from Dallas, too).

The best things to do in Jefferson itself include antiquing in the historic downtown center, shopping at the famous Jefferson General Store, staying in one of  the many bed and breakfasts  that the town is famous for, and learning about Jefferson’s railroad history–touring Jay Gould’s opulent private rail car is a great place to start.

From there, head to Caddo Lake, where you’ll find a very different side of the Lone Star State–one dotted with giant cypress trees that drip Spanish moss and leisurely canoe rides.

This isn’t a lake for swimming–the alligators who live in the lake are best avoided–but it is utterly beautiful, and a fantastic road trip from Dallas for those looking to leave city vibes behind entirely.

Branson, MO

Tucked into the Ozarks, Branson is a (polarizing) regional favorite, with a distinct flair that draws in visitors from surrounding states–including people looking for fun road trips from Dallas!

Branson is known for its live entertainment and shows (typically with a country music twist), its easy access to Table Rock Lake, and for being the home of Silver Dollar City, an amusement park that’s a favorite of families visiting the area.

New Braunfels, TX

For a fairly small town, New Braunfels is positively packed with things to do, from the beautiful Gruene Historic District (home to the iconic Gruene Hall), to floating the river, to visiting Schlitterbahn, to touring the incredible Natural Bridge Caverns.

Whether your ideal weekend getaway from Dallas includes natural beauty, dancing the night away, or one of the best theme parks in Texas, you’ll find it in New Braunfels!

3 hours, 40 minutes.

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Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the  Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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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. 

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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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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.

Anzac Day trading hours 2024: What's open and when

Your quick guide to what's open and closed on the anzac day public holiday..

Anzac Day is marked on 25 April every year. Source: AAP / Darren England

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