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

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

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

For all types of getaways near Pittsburgh CLICK HERE    

Day Trips From Pittsburgh

Amazing day trip to hartwood acres park - 30 min from pittsburgh.

• Tours of the estate require advanced reservations.

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

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

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

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

Park and Beach Getaways at Raccoon Creek State Park in PA

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

Beach and Park Getaway to Moraine State Park near Pittsburgh PA

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

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

Magical Day Trip to Laurel Caverns in Laurel Highlands PA

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

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

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

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

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

Scenic Getaway at Cooper Rock State Forest in West Virginia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• The entrance to the park is free.

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

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

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

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

Picturesque Beach and Park Getaway at Geneva On The Lake OH⁠

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

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

Gorgeous Lake Getaway at Deep Creek Lake in Maryland

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

For a compete list of getaways near Pittsburgh  CLICK HERE   

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What is TravelTime?

2 Hours Driving Radius Map

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

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

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

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

Still not convinced?

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

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

Use cases for consumers

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

Use cases for businesses

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

Full access

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

TravelTime Features

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

• Last Updated On
• September 5, 2023

40 Best Weekend Getaways From Pittsburgh — Quick Trips!

Pittsburgh is the perfect place to go if you want a weekend getaway.

The city in western Pennsylvania is not just home to museums, gardens, and historical sites waiting to be explored.

Located at the confluence of the Allegheny and the Monongahela Rivers, it’s also the perfect jump-off point to other beautiful places outside the city.

Have you explored every corner of the City of Champions?

Spice up your adventures with the best weekend getaways from Pittsburgh on this list below.

1. The Laurel Highlands

Laurel Highlands, PA 15655 (717) 787-2500

This region encompasses 3,000 square miles of green spaces and rugged terrain in Fayette, Somerset, and Westmoreland Counties.

It’s also home to historical sites and world-class resorts.

You can reach The Laurel Highlands from Pittsburgh in 59 minutes.

Looking for last minute weekend getaways from Pittsburgh?

The Laurel Highlands should be your destination.

You can do many things in this nature oasis.

Marvel at the beautiful Cucumber and Ohiopyle waterfalls.

Bike the popular Great Allegheny Passage and take in gorgeous views of around 130 species of trees along the way.

If you’re lucky, you might even come across a red-backed salamander or white-tailed deer.

2. The Allegheny National Forest

Marienville, PA 16239 (814) 927-5700

Established in 1923, this forest covers 513,315 acres of land.

It’s home to the Kinzua Dam, one of the largest reservoirs east of Mississippi.

It will take 1 hour and 46 minutes from Pittsburgh to the Allegheny National Forest if you travel by car.

Don’t look any further for cheap vacations from Pittsburgh.

The Allegheny National Forest is nature at its finest.

This means it has everything to keep you busy.

You won’t have to shell out that much to enjoy, either.

Go fishing in the Allegheny Wild and Scenic River.

If you’re up for the challenge, take a stroll along Kinzua Sky Walk.

Here, you can look 300 feet straight down into the valley through the glass floors.

Hike a portion of the 100 miles of the historic North Country Trail to view a beautiful ancient forest.

It’s one of the inexpensive weekend getaways near Pittsburgh you can’t miss.

3. Baltimore

Located on the banks of the Chesapeake Bay, this city in Maryland is at the mouth of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.

It’s home to family-friendly attractions, including the National Aquarium.

You can get to Baltimore from Pittsburgh in 4 hours and 20 minutes by car.

This is one of the long weekend trips from Pittsburgh worth taking.

After all, in Baltimore, there’s no shortage of things to do when you’re with the family.

Get up close and personal with gorgeous animals like the Atlantic puffin and bottlenose dolphin in the National Aquarium.

The Maryland Science Center is perfect for the science buff, with its three levels of exhibits, a planetarium, and an observatory.

If you’re an artist, head to the Walters Art Museum.

The museum features beautiful artworks from the third millennium BC to the 20th century.

Recommended Hotel: Sagamore Pendry Baltimore

Related: Best Places to Visit Near Baltimore

4. Beaver Creek State Park

12021 Echo Dell Road East Liverpool, OH 43920 (330) 385-3091

This park near East Liverpool stretches for 2,722 acres in Columbiana County.

It features historical landmarks like Gaston’s Mill and the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center.

If you’re coming from Pittsburgh, you can get to Beaver Creek State Park in 1 hour and 2 minutes.

One of the best places near Pittsburgh for vacation, the park is a nature oasis.

Keep your eyes open for raccoons, chipmunks, and even white-tailed deer here.

Go boating on Little Beaver Creek or hike the Vondergreen trail that runs along the river.

If you’re more of a history buff, check out Pioneer Village, which showcases 19th-century buildings, such as a blacksmith shop and a schoolhouse.

Gaston’s Mill is a must-see, too, one of the last functioning of its kind in Ohio, dating back to 1837.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express – Newell-Chester WV, an IHG Hotel

5. Chautauqua County

Mayville, NY 14757 (716) 753-4000

Situated in the westernmost part of New York, this county, created in 1808, stretches for 960,000 acres.

It’s home to historic attractions like Dunkirk Lighthouse and Veterans Museum.

If you’re driving from Pittsburgh, you can reach Chautauqua County in 2 hours and 23 minutes.

There are many places to go for a weekend trip near you.

Chautauqua County is one of them, with its abundance of historical spots.

Built in the 1800s, the Atwater-Stone House is a must-visit.

Check out the Brocton Arch, too, constructed way back in 1913.

Embark on a lake adventure on board Chautauqua Belle, built between 1974 and 1976.

It can be one of the best romantic getaways from Pittsburgh you’ll ever have.

Recommended Hotel: Spencer Hotel & Spa Chautauqua

Related: Weekend Trips From Buffalo

Related: Hotels in Pittsburgh

6. Cleveland

This city in Ohio is the seat of Cuyahoga County.

It stretches for 52,787 acres and is home to the popular Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

If you’re driving a car from Pittsburgh, you can get to Cleveland in 2 hours and 7 minutes.

Don’t miss out on one of the popular Pittsburgh area weekend getaways.

Situated along the southern shore of Lake Erie, Cleveland is a haven for travelers.

Check out the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which features exhibits on the musical genre’s history.

If you’re more of an architecture enthusiast, drop by downtown Cleveland.

You won’t get enough of the gorgeous architecture associated with the City Beautiful movement of the 1890s and 1900s.

Prefer to see art?

The Cleveland Museum of Art is just the place to go.

Enjoy the museum’s beautiful photography, modern artworks, and exhibits of talented local artists.

Recommended Hotel: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection

Related: Places Near Cleveland

7. Columbus

Columbus, OH 43125 (614) 645-3111

Columbus encompasses over 144,000 acres of parks and modern and historical structures.

Incorporated in 1816, it’s Ohio’s state capital.

It’s an almost 3-hour drive from Pittsburgh to Columbus.

Here’s one cool overnight trip you’ll never forget.

Columbus offers the adventure of a lifetime for travelers looking to experience a bit of everything.

Want to check out a science museum?

The Center of Science and Industry features interactive exhibits and planetarium shows.

Looking for history?

The German Village area is a must-visit, with its restored brick houses built in the 1800s.

If you want to experience nature, drop by the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens.

You’ll love the over 400 plant species around you.

Recommended Hotel: Sonesta Columbus Downtown

Related: Day Trips Around Columbus

8. Conneaut Lake Park

12382 Center Street Conneaut Lake, PA 16316

This amusement park, founded in 1892, is one of the country’s most historical facilities of its kind.

It’s in Conneaut Lake, Pennsylvania’s largest natural glacier lagoon.

If you drive a vehicle from Pittsburgh, you can reach Conneaut Lake Park in 1 hour and 28 minutes.

This is one of the short trips from Pittsburgh you should make with the family.

You and the kids will have loads of fun when you get to the park.

Ride the old-fashioned Ferris wheel for beautiful views of the city from 40 feet above.

If you prefer an adrenaline-pumping attraction, slide down a 415-foot-long slide in Cliffhanger Falls.

You can go fishing in Conneaut Lake for a more relaxing experience.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Meadville

9. Fallingwater

1491 Mill Run Road Mill Run, PA 15464 (724) 329-8501

Designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright in 1935, a portion of this house stands over a waterfall.

It’s in the mountains of Pennsylvania.

If you’re coming from Pittsburgh, Fallingwater is just 1 hour and 11 minutes away.

If you’re looking for the perfect getaway, Pittsburgh won’t disappoint.

The city allows you to access this majestic piece of architecture via I-76 easily.

When you reach your destination, you’ll find 5,100 acres of land surrounding the beautiful structure.

Check out Fallingwater’s huge outdoor terraces.

Then you can dine in Fallingwater Cafe in the Visitor Center for the complete adventure.

Recommended Hotel: Nemacolin

Related: Fun Weekend Trips in Pennsylvania

10. Hartwood Acres Park

200 Hartwood Acres Pittsburgh, PA 15238 (412) 767-9200

This park encompasses 629 acres of land in Allegheny County.

It’s home to a sculpture garden, an off-leash dog area, and a 1.5-mile paved trail system.

It’s just a 22-minute drive from Pittsburgh to Hartwood Acres Park.

Experience nature at its peak in this gorgeous park.

Hike a portion of the trails for stunning views of wildflowers in the meadows and tall trees.

You can bond with your furry friend in open green spaces, too.

The Hartwood Acres Sculpture Garden is a must-see, too.

You’ll see how the beautiful nature scenery complements just-as-gorgeous large-scale art installations.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites – Pittsburgh/Harmarville, PA

11. McConnells Mill State Park

1761 McConnells Mill Road Portersville, PA 16051 (724) 368-8091

Established in 1957, this state park stretches for 2,546 acres in Perry and Slippery Rock Townships.

It features a restored watermill and a breathtaking gorge.

From Pittsburgh, you can reach McConnells Mill State Park in 41 minutes by car.

The park is a beauty.

Hike the two-mile Kildoo trail loop for breathtaking views of Hell’s Hollow Falls.

Want some adrenaline rush?

Try some rock climbing or rappelling at Breakneck Bridge.

For a more relaxing activity, swing by the restored water mill, which traces its origins to the 1800s.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn New Castle

12. Meadville

This city, set 90 miles from Pittsburgh, is the seat of Crawford County.

It stretches over 2,796 acres of land in the beautiful French Creek Valley.

You can reach Meadville in 1 hour and 23 minutes from Pittsburgh if you use a vehicle.

The city exudes a charming vibe, with its downtown filled with structures dating back to the 1800s.

There are many other historical sites you can visit, too.

Swing by the Lovely Diamond Park.

It served as militia drill grounds during the American Civil War.

The Bicentennial Park is a must-see as well.

It’s home to a log cabin replica of city founder Major General David Mead.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Meadville (I-79 Exit 147a), an IHG Hotel

13. Monongahela National Forest

200 Sycamore Street Elkins, WV 26241 (304) 636-1800

This national forest is in the Allegheny Mountains.

It encompasses 921,150 acres of converted rail trails, green spaces, and rugged terrain.

If you’re coming from Pittsburgh, Monongahela National Forest is 2 hours and 15 minutes away by car.

Are you a nature lover?

Make sure you visit the Monongahela National Forest.

Hike the 1.5-mile trail to get to the Seneca Rocks summit for gorgeous views of valleys on both sides.

If you don’t want a workout, just go fishing in the park’s more than 600 miles of cold-water streams.

You might just find a rainbow or brown trout to take home.

Recommended Hotel: Inn at Snowshoe

14. Moundsville

Situated along the Ohio River, this city derives its name from the nearby Grave Creek Mound, built from 250 to 100 BC.

It’s also home to the West Virginia State Penitentiary, built in 1876 but closed in 1995.

You can reach Moundsville from Pittsburgh in 1 hour and 14 minutes.

Moundsville is a must-visit for history buffs.

You can explore the city’s conical burial grounds constructed by Adena natives.

If you want something a little different, visit the West Virginia State Penitentiary.

You can tour the Gothic facility, which has been retired from prison use.

Don’t forget to drop by the Anna B. Smith House.

It features exhibits of products made by the Fostoria Glass Company, which began operations in 1887.

Recommended Hotel: Sleep Inn & Suites Moundsville

15. Mount Davis

Mount Davis, Forbes State Forest Elk Lick Township, PA 15558

Situated in the 5,685-acre Forbes State Forest, Mount Davis is the highest peak in Pennsylvania.

It has an elevation of 3,213 feet.

Mount Davis is 1 hour and 35 minutes away from the city by car.

Want your daily dose of exercise?

Hike a portion of the trails that lead up to Pennsylvania’s highest point.

Make sure you check the Davis Observation Tower, too.

It’s an uphill climb, but the views of Deer Valley Lake and the surrounding Laurel Highlands are worth it.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn Grantsville-Deep Creek Lake

16. Nelson Ledges Quarry Park

12001 Nelson Ledge Road Garrettsville, OH 44231 (440) 548-2716

This park stretches for 250 acres in northeastern Ohio.

It’s home to forests, streams, and over 400 campsites.

Travel by car from Pittsburgh, and you can get to Nelson Ledges Quarry Park in 1 hour and 29 minutes.

Immerse in nature in this beautiful park.

Go fishing in the lake full of catfish for the perfect bonding moment with friends.

If you’re a fitness buff, you can always just walk the trails in the forest together.

Make sure you visit the beautiful Minnehaha falls that drop 15 feet into a gorge.

Camp deep in the woods under the beautiful Ohio skies for the perfect cap-off to your weekend adventure.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Lordstown-Newton Falls/Warren, an IHG Hotel

17. New Wilmington

New Wilmington, PA 16142 (724) 946-8167

This borough in Lawrence County stretches for over 697 acres.

It features the Caldwell One-Room Schoolhouse built in 1880 and other historical sites.

It’s only a 1-hour drive from Pittsburgh to New Wilmington.

Experience rural life at its best in New Wilmington.

Rent car buggies to explore the 4-mile Hells Hollow Wildlife Adventure Trail.

Check out Apple Castle, too.

The farm has been growing fruits since 1861.

They are the perfect souvenirs to take home.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Sharon

18. Oglebay Park

465 Lodge Drive Wheeling, WV 26003 (877) 436-1797

This municipal park encompasses 1,650 acres of land on the outskirts of Wheeling.

It sits on the grounds that used to form part of Earl W. Oglebay’s Waddington Farms estate.

By car, Oglebay Park is 1 hour and 4 minutes away from Pittsburgh.

You won’t run out of things to see here.

The Carriage House, for instance, is a beautiful reminder of the past, with its classical-inspired architecture built around 1793.

The main house on the former estate remains standing, too.

It became the Mansion Museum in 1930 and continues to operate as a cultural site.

You should check out a greenhouse in the park, too.

Greenhouses appeared in the Waddington Farms estate as early as the 1900s.

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Oglebay

19. Ohiopyle State Park

124 Main Street Ohiopyle, PA 15470 (724) 329-8591

This state park stretches for 20,500 acres of land in Dunbar, Henry Clay, and Stewart Townships.

It’s home to the Youghiogheny River and the Cucumber Falls.

If you’re traveling by car from Pittsburgh, you can get to Ohiopyle State Park in 1 hour and 12 minutes.

Have a full nature experience in this beautiful park.

Enjoy whitewater boating on the 14-mile Youghiogheny River under Pennsylvania skies.

Are you a fitness enthusiast?

Hike to the beautiful 30-foot Cucumber Falls or the park’s own Ohiopyle waterfall instead.

Make sure you bring your camera because you’ll want to take many pictures along the way.

Recommended Hotel: The Lodge at Chalk Hill

20. Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park

222 Penns Cave Road Centre Hall, PA 16828 (814) 364-1664

This wildlife park is home to Penn’s Cave House, which served as a hotel from 1885 to 1919.

It stretches for 57 acres.

Drive a car from Pittsburgh, and you’ll reach Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park in 2 hours and 37 minutes.

Go on a beautiful tour of the underground cavern that stretches for 1,300 feet.

Tour the wildlife park separately, too.

You’ll see beautiful native North American animals, such as mountain lions, in their habitats.

Complete your adventure by trying out the 5,000-square-foot maze.

Recommended Hotel: Wyndham Garden State College

21. Pine Creek Gorge

4797 Route 660 Wellsboro, PA 16901

Also called the Grand Canyon of Pennsylvania, this natural landmark is 12,163 acres in size.

Around it is the Tioga State Forest, which encompasses an estimated 165,000 acres of land.

If you’re coming from Pittsburgh, it will take you 3 hours and 5 minutes to get to Pine Creek Gorge by car.

Enjoy this breathtaking gorge with depths of over 1,000 feet from the Pine Creek rim.

Along the rim, you get stunning vistas of Colton Point and Leonard Harrison State Parks.

If you want to challenge yourself, hike the Turkey Path trails that will take you to the depths of the gorge.

The beautiful waterfalls at the bottom make for picture-perfect views.

Recommended Hotel: Rough Cut Lodge

22. Presque Isle State Park

301 Peninsula Drive Suite 1 Erie, PA 16505 (814) 833-7424

This state park sits on a sandy peninsula on Lake Erie.

The park stretches for 3,112 acres on Presque Isle, believed to have Pennsylvania’s only “seashore.”

You can reach Presque Isle State Park from Pittsburgh in 1 hour and 57 minutes if you use a vehicle.

This park has everything you need for the ultimate nature getaway.

Go swimming in the gorgeous waters with the kids.

If you’re not in the mood for swimming, you can always lie on the sandy beach and take in the views.

Get ready with your camera because you’re more likely to see beautiful common terns or horned larks in action.

Recommended Hotel: Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel

23. Seven Springs Mountain Resort

777 Waterwheel Drive Champion, PA 15622 (814) 352-7777

Located in Somerset County, this resort sits 3,001 feet above sea level.

It features biking, hiking, and golfing opportunities and 285 acres of a skiable area in the winter.

You can get to Seven Springs Mountain Resort in 1 hour and 3 minutes if you’re coming from Pittsburgh.

Bond with friends in this one-of-a-kind resort.

Challenge them to a game of par-71 golf or a lumberjack match in the Foggy Goggle Axe House.

Want even more physical activity?

Go hiking or biking on the park’s 33 trails and slopes.

Don’t worry because you can stay in any of the resort’s lovely guest rooms for one of the best weekend getaways in Pittsburgh or nearby.

24. Smicksburg

Smicksburg, PA 16256 (724) 465-3800

Smicksburg is one of the smallest incorporated boroughs in Pennsylvania.

It’s home to a large Amish population, historic sites, and a wide array of specialty shops.

The travel time from Pittsburgh to Smicksburg is 1 hour and 9 minutes if you use a car.

Smicksburg’s small-town vibe stands out with its green farms and quaint shops downtown.

Walk around the beautiful countryside.

You’ll see a sizable Amish population just going about their simple lifestyle, some driving around in buggies.

Check out the Victorian-style Marshall House that dates back to the 19th century.

Then sample delicious wines at the Windgate Vineyards and Winery for the perfect weekend adventure.

Recommended Hotel: Cobblestone Hotel & Suites – Punxsutawney

Situated on the south shore of a lake, Erie is the fifth largest city in Pennsylvania.

It is home to the Erie Art Museum, parks, and botanical gardens.

To get to Erie, you can drive a car from Pittsburgh.

You’ll get there in 2 hours.

Like many Pittsburgh weekend getaways, this one is worth it.

Erie has a lot to offer, whether you’re an art buff or a nature enthusiast.

The Erie Art Museum is home to a collection of over 8,000 objects that include beautiful Tibetan paintings and ceramics.

You can hike the 0.69-mile Duck Run Trail into wooded areas at the Erie Bluffs State Park.

Enjoy a picnic afterward for an unforgettable nature experience.

Recommended Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott Erie Bayfront

26. Gettysburg

Gettysburg, PA 17325 (717) 334-1160

This borough and town in Pennsylvania is home to the Gettysburg National Battlefield and other historical sites.

It’s 185 miles away from Pittsburgh.

You can get to Gettysburg from the city in 3 hours and 30 minutes by car.

If you’re a history lover, Gettysburg is the place to be.

The area has a lot of history to offer.

Head to the Gettysburg National Military Park, which houses the site of a battle that was a turning point in the Civil War.

If you want to see more Civil War artifacts, check out the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center.

The Gettysburg National Cemetery is a must-see, too.

It’s home to a memorial that marks the site of Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg address in 1863.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg

27. State College

State College, PA 16801 (814) 234-7100

Located in Centre County, this municipality is home to the main campus of the Pennsylvania State University.

It also features the Palmer Museum of Art and the Beaver Stadium.

The travel time from Pittsburgh to State College is 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Enjoy a weekend filled with fun things to do at State College.

Marvel at the Palmer Museum of Art’s collections ranging from ancient ceramics to 20th-century artworks.

Discovery Space is a great place to visit if you bring the kids along, with its interactive galaxy exhibits.

If you’re more of a sports buff, watch a Penn State football game in the Beaver Stadium together.

Then hike up Mount Nittany as part of your daily workout.

Recommended Hotel: The Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center

28. Benezette

Benezette, PA 15821 (814) 787-8811

Located on Route 55, this community has been touted as the Elk Capital of Pennsylvania.

It’s home to over 1,400 animals and parks.

If you’re coming from Pittsburgh, you can get to Benezette in 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Here’s a getaway that probably differs from your other Pittsburgh vacations.

Imagine seeing gorgeous four-legged elk in their natural habitat from the visitor center on Winslow Hill.

You can even go on a wagon ride at the back of the property to experience the lovely creatures uniquely.

Check out the nearby Elk Mountain Homestead farmhouse, too.

It’s a bedding and feeding area for the four-legged animals you don’t want to miss.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites St Marys, an IHG Hotel

29. Lancaster

Lancaster, PA 17608 (717) 291-4711

Known as the hub of Pennsylvania’s Dutch Country, Lancaster has also been touted as one of the oldest inland cities in the country.

It’s home to the Dutch Wonderland and the Turkey Hill ice cream headquarters.

The travel time from Pittsburgh to Lancaster is 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Enjoy the time of your life with the family in this gorgeous city.

Try the Dutch Wonderland’s over 30 rides with the kids.

Soak in gorgeous views from above in Sky Ride.

If you and the young ones want an adrenaline rush, Merlin’s Mayhem is just the perfect attraction for you.

Head straight to the Turkey Hill headquarters after your day’s adventure.

You can sample delicious ice cream and create your own flavors from scratch.

Recommended Hotel: Eden Resort and Suites, BW Premier Collection

30. The Poconos

1004 West Main Street Stroudsburg, PA 18360 (570) 844-2001

The mountains on the eastern edge of the Delaware Water Gap are home to waterfalls, trails, and water parks.

You can reach the Pocono Mountains in 4 hours and 30 minutes from Pittsburgh.

The children won’t get enough of this place.

You’ll find water parks everywhere, with their slides and lazy rivers.

You can commune with nature in The Poconos, too.

Check out the Pennell Falls, which drop over a 100-foot cliff.

The spectacular Main Falls will blow you away, too, as they tumble down to create a beautiful pool surrounded by gorgeous flowers.

Recommended Hotel: Camelback Resort

Butler, PA 16001 (724) 285-4731

Located in the western portion of Pennsylvania, Butler is home to beautiful parks, museums, and a wide array of dining options.

Butler is 33 miles away from Pittsburgh.

You can get to Butler in 50 minutes if you use a car.

Experience life away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Take a canoe ride and explore the majestic Lake Arthur at Moraine State Park.

Go swimming on any of the park’s two beaches under beautiful Pennsylvania skies.

If the kids tagged along with you, Pleasant Valley Beach is an excellent option.

It has playground equipment they can use all day.

You can play volleyball on one of the courts here, too.

Recommended Hotel: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Pittsburgh Butler/Centre City

32. Philadelphia

Also called Philly, Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and the sixth largest in the country.

It’s home to historical sites like Independence Hall and the President’s House.

It will take 4 hours and 50 minutes to get to Philadelphia from Pittsburgh by car.

Philly is just the place to go on a history-filled weekend adventure.

Swing by Independence Hall.

It’s where the founding fathers signed the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, two of the most important documents in US history.

Drop by the President’s Hall as well.

From 1790 to 1800, it served as the country’s first White House.

Don’t forget to check out the Academy of Music.

It dates back to 1962 and is the oldest opera house still being used for that purpose in the country.

Recommended Hotel: The Rittenhouse Hotel

Related: Fun Day Trips From Philadelphia

33. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area

1978 River Road Bushkill, PA 18324 (570) 426-2452

This nature oasis sits on a stretch of the Delaware River on the border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

It features mountains, beaches, and the Delaware Water Gap.

By car, the Delaware Gap National Recreation Area is 4 hours and 50 minutes away from Pittsburgh.

Want to spend time with your significant other?

The Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is just the place to go.

You can hike a portion of the 100 miles of the Appalachian Trail that cuts through the area.

If you’re not in the mood to exert too much physical activity, drive the car along the 100 miles of scenic roads.

You’ll get just-as-incredible views of valleys, floodplains, and dense forests.

Recommended Hotel: Club Wyndham Shawnee Village

34. Cherry Springs State Park

4639 Cherry Springs Road Coudersport, PA 16915 (814) 435-1037

Established in 1922, this park stretches for 82 acres in Potter County.

It derives its name from the park’s large stand of black cherry trees.

The travel time from Pittsburgh to Cherry Springs State Park is 3 hours and 30 minutes by car.

This park allows for the perfect nature adventure.

Hike the one-mile loop around the park for incredible views of black cherry trees and green spaces.

A part of the 85-mile Susquehannock Trail System passes near the park.

This is the perfect trail for expert hikers who want stunning views of rolling hills and valleys.

After your hike, don’t forget to do some stargazing at night.

At an elevation of 2,300 feet, the park is famous for having one of the darkest night skies on the east coast.

So you can catch a glimpse of beautiful stars and even a part of the Milky Way in optimal conditions.

Recommended Hotel: Hotel Crittenden

35. Hershey

Hershey, PA 17033 (717) 533-2057

Situated in Derry Township, this unincorporated community is home to The Hershey Company headquarters.

It also features a rose garden and a park.

If you’re coming from Pittsburgh, you can reach Hershey in 3 hours and 50 minutes.

Take the young ones to Hershey for a family trip they won’t forget.

They’ll love Hersheypark, with its over 70 rides and attractions.

Hershey’s Chocolate World will make them–and you–happy, too.

Enjoy the chocolate-tasting experience the town is famous for.

Go on the Unwrapped tour, too.

You’ll learn how Hershey makes exquisite chocolates that delight the palate.

Recommended Hotel: Best Western Plus Hershey

36. Omni Bedford Springs Resort

2138 Business 220 Bedford, PA 15522 (814) 623-8100

This mineral springs resort stretches for 2,200 acres in Bedford.

Established in 1806, it has been touted as the last and best-preserved mineral springs resort hotel of the 19th century.

You can reach Omni Bedford Springs Resort in 1 hour and 45 minutes if you drive from Pittsburgh.

Enjoy some incredible me-time in this beautiful place.

Indulge in the resort’s Bedford Bath with cold and hot water from natural springs.

Then have your tee time in the Old Course, which features plush greens and well-manicured fairways.

Enjoy some reading time on the front lawn, right in front of a welcoming fire pit, for a weekend well spent.

37. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

6947 Riverview Road Peninsula, OH 44264 (440) 717-3890

Nestled along the Cuyahoga River, this national park straddles the cities of Cleveland and Akron in Ohio.

It features a Canal Exploration Center, a scenic railroad, and waterfalls.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is 112 miles away from Pittsburgh.

If you travel by car, you can get to the park in 1 hour and 50 minutes.

If you’re a nature lover, you’ll love this park.

Everywhere you go, you’ll see nature at its peak.

Bike the Towpath Trail that follows the 87-mile Ohio & Erie Canal.

Don’t worry because it’s an easy ride.

You’ll also get stunning views of the river and valleys along the way.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Cleveland/Twinsburg

38. Put-in-Bay

Put-in-Bay, OH 43456 (419) 285-5112

This village located on South Bass Island stretches for 397 acres.

It features Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial and a wide array of dining options.

The travel time from Pittsburgh is 3 hours and 50 minutes if you use a car.

Put-in-Bay has all the history and nature you want as a traveler.

The Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial is an iconic historic landmark.

It honors the brave men and women who fought in the War of 1812.

For your nature experience, check out Perry’s Cave Family Fun Center.

You’ll find a beautiful limestone cave and a butterfly house to explore.

If you prefer a water adventure, just go kayaking on the bay and soak in the beautiful Ohio sky.

Recommended Hotel: Anchor Inn Boutique Hotel

39. Jim Thorpe

Jim Thorpe, PA 18229 (570) 325-3025

This town encompasses over 9,500 acres of land in eastern Pennsylvania.

With a rich coal mining history, this town derives its name from the acclaimed Native American athlete.

You can reach Jim Thorpe from Pittsburgh in 4 hours and 32 minutes.

Relive the 19th century when Jim Thorpe was a thriving coal mining town.

Check out the 19th-century anthracite coal mine housed in Lansford No. 9 Mine and Museum.

Then ride an old coach to Lehigh Gorge State Park.

You’ll love the elegant Victorian mansions of industrialists, such as Asa Packer, along the way.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Lehighton – Jim Thorpe

40. Morgantown

This city in West Virginia stretches for over 6,809 acres.

It’s home to West Virginia University, the 1924 Metropolitan Theatre, and beaches.

By car, you can reach Morgantown in 1 hour and 16 minutes if you come from Pittsburgh.

Spend an entire weekend in this place, and you won’t run out of fun activities.

Listen to some country music at the Metropolitan Theatre.

Then explore West Virginia University, with its towering buildings.

If you want to experience nature, visit the WVU Core Arboretum.

You won’t get enough of its gorgeous old-growth forest and wildflowers.

Make sure you swim on Morgantown’s beaches or kayak on the Monongahela River.

After your trip, you’ll understand why this is one of the best weekend getaways from Pittsburgh that travelers shouldn’t miss.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Morgantown-University Area, an IHG Hotel

Related: Restaurants in Morgantown, WV

Map of The Best Weekend Getaways From Pittsburgh, PA

40 Best Weekend Trips From Pittsburgh 2024

• The Laurel Highlands
• The Allegheny National Forest
• Beaver Creek State Park
• Chautauqua County
• Conneaut Lake Park
• Fallingwater
• Hartwood Acres Park
• McConnells Mill State Park
• Monongahela National Forest
• Moundsville
• Mount Davis
• Nelson Ledges Quarry Park
• New Wilmington
• Oglebay Park
• Ohiopyle State Park
• Penn’s Cave & Wildlife Park
• Pine Creek Gorge
• Presque Isle State Park
• Seven Springs Mountain Resort
• State College
• The Poconos
• Philadelphia
• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
• Cherry Springs State Park
• Omni Bedford Springs Resort
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Geneva Inn starting at $159 per night

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

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

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

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

Booking.com Rating: 9.0 out of 10

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

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

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

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

Best Getaway near Denver: Aspen, three hours by car

Book Aspen Meadows starting at $174 per night

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

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

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

Trip Advisor Ranking: 8 out of 34 hotels in Aspen

Booking.com Rating: 8.9 out of 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book Hawks Cay Resort starting at $191 per night

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

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

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

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

Booking.com Rating: 8.2 out of 10

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

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

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

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

Book Pioneertown Motel starting at $195 per night

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

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

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

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

Booking.com Rating: 9.2 out of 10

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Booking.com Rating: 8.7 out of 10

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

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

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

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

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

Book Big Sur Lodge starting at $249 per night

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

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

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

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

Booking.com Rating: 8.1 out of 10 

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

Cons: Wi-Fi is often unavailable.  

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

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

Book Goodstone Inn starting at $285 per night

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

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

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

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

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

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

Booking.com Rating: 9.1 out of 10

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

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

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

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

Book Blantyre Country House Hotel starting at $435 per night

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

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

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

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

Trip Advisor Ranking: 7 out of 17 hotels in Lenox

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Trip Advisor Ranking: 1 out of 7 hotels in Hawley

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

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

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

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

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

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The 25 best weekend getaways from Chicago

Eat, play and explore a different city (without venturing too far) by booking an amazing weekend getaway from Chicago.

Although we adore our city’s endless restaurants , museums  and attractions , a change of scenery is always nice.  Luckily for us, the Midwest has plenty to offer with exciting destinations only a few hours’ drive from Chicago. You can lounge in transparent waters and hike sand dunes in the “Malibu of the Midwest,” recharge at a bed and breakfast on a farm surrounded by friendly sheep, and marvel at modernist architecture in a small southern Indiana town. Many of these places are also great for a day trip  or family-friendly getaway . So if you're looking to skip town, here are the best weekend getaways from Chicago.

RECOMMENDED: The most unique day trips from Chicago Historic Airbnbs near Chicago

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Top weekend getaways from Chicago

1.  Milwaukee, WI

Driving time from Chicago:  One and a half hours

Our neighbors to the north will make you feel right at home with a seemingly endless supply of craft beer and cheese. Leave time to explore world-class cultural institutions before hopping on the Amtrak for a stress-free ride back to Chicago.

Do this:  Start your day at the Milwaukee Art Museum , an architectural masterpiece along the shores of Lake Michigan that houses almost 25,000 works of art. Quite honestly, the building itself—designed by Spanish architect  Santiago Calatrava— is a masterpiece in its own right, even if you don't want to splurge on admission.

Stay here: Sleep in the heart of the city   when you check into the Kimpton Journeyman Hotel in Milwaukee's Third Ward. Located within walking distance of some of the city's best restaurants and bars, this beautiful boutique hotel also has a jaw-dropping rooftop terrace and rooms that are outfitted with lavish touches—perfect for a weekend away.

2.  Kohler, WI

Driving time from Chicago: Two hours and 15 minutes 

New York City’s Central Park architect Frederick Law Olmsted left his legacy in several places in the Midwest, including rural Wisconsin when the Kohler Company commissioned him in the early 1900s to design its new planned “industrial garden community” five miles west of Sheboyan. Today, this community of 2,000 is ideal for unplugging. 

Do this: Climb the dunes at Kohler-Andrae State Park before indulging in a spa service at Kohler Waters Sp a , the only five-star spa in the Midwest. After your treatment, take advantage of the hydrotherapy circuit, a combination of cold plunges, steam room and sauna visits, and a relaxation pool.

Stay here: Splurge on one of the three Destination Kohler lodging options—a luxury resort, a lakeside inn or one of the cabins—or opt for the more moderately priced and equally exciting  Velvet Sheep Farms Bed & Breakfast and Fiber Farm , just a ten minute drive north of Kohler. Embrace the slower pace of life as you get to know the farm’s beloved sheep by name and take a tour of their fiber production facilities.

3.  Galena, IL

Driving time from Chicago:  Three hours

A charming, small Illinois town known for its history, 19th-century architecture and resorts. 

Do this: Make your way through over a hundred shops and boutiques in the downtown area. History buffs can head over to the Ulysses S. Grant Home  to tour the city’s proudest attraction. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop into Log Cabin Steakhouse , which has been in operation since 1937. During the third weekend of June, tourists and locals alike gather for the annual Great Galena Balloon Race .

Stay here: The 6,800-acre Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa has everything you could need for a relaxing vacation. Play a round of golf on any of the four courses (there are 63 holes in total), book a spa treatment or go for a swim. The resort also offers 22 miles of hiking and biking trails, three restaurants on site and lodge-style rooms outfitted with jacuzzi bathtubs.

4.  Indianapolis, IN

Driving time from Chicago: Three hours 

Indianapolis’s nickname may be “Naptown,” but there’s nothing sleepy about the locally-owned and farm-to-table restaurants, busting jazz clubs, bookstores and quirky gift shops found around Indy. Fanning out from Monumental Circle, the heart of downtown Indy, Indianapolis’s neighborhoods are home to a friendly and welcoming cultural scene.

Do this:  Spend your time browsing the stores, spotting art (and fairy homes!) and eating in the Fountain Square Cultural District, a diverse and LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhood just south of downtown. By day, make time for coffee and snuggles at Nine Lives Cat Cafe and at night, see a drag show at White Rabbit Cabaret or coincide your visit with swing dancing at the historic Fountain Square Theater Building, a longstanding Indy tradition. 

Stay here: Housed in the restored art-deco architecture of a former Coca Cola Bottling Plant, Indy’s Bottleworks Hotel was used by Indianapolis Public Schools for years before becoming one the city’s most unique luxury accommodations. The Bottleworks grounds also includes a food hall and several small businesses.

5.  Madison, WI

Driving time from Chicago: Two and a half hours

Life in “Lake City,” as Wisconsin’s second largest city is often referred to, is undeniably beautiful—and full of year-round water-focused recreation. Between the parks and shorelines of lakes Mendota, Monona, Waubesa, Kegonsa and Wingra, visitors can expect to be in close proximity to nature and green living. In fact, wherever you live in Madison, you’re no further than 10 minutes from a park. 

Do this: Spend a day at Olbrich Park along the shores of Lake Monona. In the summer, rent a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddle to relax on the water, and in the winter, opt for snowshoes and remind yourself there’s no bad weather—only bad clothing. After, head to Giant Jones Brewery , one of the best boozy destinations from Chicago . 

Stay here: One of Madison’s newest hotels is the centrally-located boutique Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown , housed in the former Mautz Company Paint Building. It’s a short walk from Giant Jones. And as far as we’ve heard, the fumes are gone.

6.  Door County, WI

Driving time from Chicago:  Four and a half hours

The 300 miles of shoreline separating Green Bay and Lake Michigan offers vacationers a mix of natural beauty, history and locally sourced food.

Do this: Start with breakfast at Blue Horse Cafe , where you can dig into eggy breakfast sandwiches and delightful baked goods. That should provide you with the energy for hiking on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which features dramatic landscapes carved by glaciers 12,000 years ago.

Stay here: Historic bed and breakfast White Gull Inn   is a quaint experience that dates all the way back to 1896. All of the rooms have been meticulously restored with modern amenities through the years, ensuring guests get a comfortable night’s rest. In the morning, wake up to French toast stuffed with Wisconsin cream cheese and Door County cherries, served with Door County maple syrup.

7.  Detroit, MI

Driving time from Chicago: Four and a half hours

The renaissance of Detroit has brought with it a vibrant downtown area, oodles of amazing restaurants and bars and several destination-worthy boutique hotels—all the makings of a weekend trip away.

Do this: Plan your visit around award-winning restaurants like Selden Standard and Sister Pie . Between bites, hit up John K. King Used & Rare Books , a four-floor emporium of old tomes, as well as Belle Isle Aquarium along the Detroit River.

Stay here: Book an affordable room at the Siren Hotel , a 106-room property in the historic Wurlitzer Building. You don't have to go far for a great cocktail—downstairs watering hole, the Candy Bar , serves funky creations in an all-pink, chandelier-adorned room.

8.  Des Moines, IA

Driving time from Chicago: Five  hours

Iowa’s capital city doesn’t get the love it deserves, but you’ll find plenty to do in a weekend, with tons of art, food and breweries and a packed summer calendar of local events and festivals. 

Do this: There’s a lot of beauty in Des Moines, including at the sprawling indoor-outdoor Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden , and the six-mile  Art Route  connecting more than 80 pieces of public art. Plan your trip around one of the city’s many massive summer festivals, like the packed indie music celebration 80/35 , the inspiring Des Moines Arts Festival and Interrobang Film Festival, and—you guessed it—the Iowa State Fair . 

Stay here: For luxe accommodations, it’s hard to beat the  Surety Hotel , featuring modern rooms and the elegant Mulberry Street Tavern downstairs. Grab a martini at the bar at the punnily-named Des Lux Hotel before an evening on the town, or just curl up in your room with a fireplace. 

9.  Traverse City, MI

Driving time from Chicago: Four hours and 50 minutes 

Situated in Grand Traverse Bay’s 180 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, Traverse City is a small town with arts, culture, water recreation and summer street festivals. There's also easy access to the Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula, Sleeping Bear Dunes and the strings of other small towns dotting the pastures and hills of what Michiganders call “Up North.” 

Do this: Meander by car or bike around the wineries of Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. Featuring over 20 award-winning Michigan wineries, you’ll pass rolling hills with views of Lake Michigan. Stop for lunch at  the tranquil Farm Club for a selection of al dente pastas, local meats, pan-seared vegetables and leafy salads straight from the garden.

Stay here: Cozy up in one of the six rooms at downtown boutique hotel The Flats and Iron + Union . The 1890s-era building housed many beloved local businesses throughout the past century and is now a prime location for visitors.

10.  Louisville, KY

Driving time from Chicago: Four hours and 45 minutes

Kentucky’s largest city, just across the Ohio River from southern Indiana, is steeped in bourbon and long on charm.

Do this:  The home of the old-fashioned and the mint julep embraces its role as the gateway to Bourbon Country. The city has a number of tourable distilleries, including Evan Williams , Angel’s Envy and Old Forester .

Stay here:  True to its name, 21c Museum Hotel is part boutique hotel, part contemporary art locale. With more than 75,000 square feet of exhibition space, there's bound to be something for everyone. The hotel is also home to one of Louisville’s finest restaurants, Proof on Main , where chefs craft Southern fare using seasonal ingredients sourced from the Ohio River Valley. 

11.  Ann Arbor, MI

Driving time from Chicago: Four hours

Situated just west of Detroit, Ann Arbor is home to University of Michigan, a slew of breweries and a handful of phenomenal restaurants. If you’re a roaming foodie or beer nerd, this is the low-key vacation spot you’ve been searching for.

Do this:  You’ll want to make it a point to visit Spencer , an exquisite neighborhood spot that offers pastries and coffee in the morning and a selection of seasonal small plates, cheese and wine when the sun goes down.

Stay here: Graduate Hotels  is a collection of boutique properties that celebrate the youthful feel of college days past, and Ann Arbor is one of the group’s many locations in the country. The space is outfitted in Persian rugs, plaid chairs, velvet couches, reclaimed wood and gorgeous chandeliers. Think of it as the prep school of hotels.

12.  St. Louis, MO

If you only know the big Arch, Busch Stadium and deep-fried ravioli, we assure you there’s a lot more of STL to explore. 

Do this: Like Chicago, one of the best ways to get to know St. Louis is by visiting its neighborhoods—browse local makers and antiquers on Cherokee Street , explore a host of breweries like Side Project and Schlafly , and savor a traditional red-sauce meal on The Hill. The 1,300-acre Forest Park , one of the most stunning urban green spaces in the country, is a must. If you’re traveling with kids (or kids at heart), don’t miss the interactive, immersive City Museum , an educational playground with slides, sculptures you can play on and even vintage pinball machines. 

Stay here: The art deco Royal Sonesta Chase Park Plaza St. Louis   offers views of Forest Park and renovated guest rooms in the popular Central West End. The quirky Moonrise Hotel on the Delmar Loop leans into the lunar theme and offers an enticing all-seasons rooftop bar. 

13.  Peoria, IL

Once a small riverfront European settlement in early Illinois history, Peoria is now a safe haven for the Midwest LGBTQ+ community looking for affordable housing. Plan a visit during the River City Pride Festival to support local LGBTQ+ artists and vendors and enjoy arts, culture and food.

Do this: Drive the two and a half mile scenic Grand View Drive , one that Theodore Roosevelt famously reported was the “Most Beautiful Drive in the World.” The panoramic views of the Illinois River are stunning no matter the season, but visitors flock to Peoria for fall foliage spotting.  

Stay here: There are plenty of small, historic bed and breakfasts in and around Peoria, but for a unique experience, opt to stay 20 minutes west of downtown Peoria at Wildlife Prairie Park’ s converted Santa Fe train caboose or old grain bin.

14.  Eau Claire, WI

Driving time from Chicago: Five hours

You’ve been to Madison and Milwaukee, but a trip to the Chippewa Valley in northern Wisconsin is an experience unto itself. You’ll find rolling hills and colorful foliage, plus plenty of beer and cheese to smuggle back to Chicago.

Do this:  Hiking is nice and all, but if you really want to see what autumn looks like here, hit the Chippewa River. Head to Riverside Bike & Skate in downtown Eau Claire, where you can rent kayaks and hire a shuttle service to drive you upstream.

Stay here:  Bon Iver frontman and Eau Claire native Justin Vernon is one of the partners behind the Oxbow Hotel , so it’s no surprise that it’s easily the trendiest joint in town. The renovated motel has its own bar and restaurant, and each room contains a turntable. You probably won’t write a hit indie-rock album in your room, but at least you can listen to one.

15.  Iowa City, IA

Driving time from Chicago: Three and a half hours

Nothing says fall like holing up in a college town and reminiscing about football tailgating, dorm food and campus crushes.

Do this: Starting in September, the walkable University of Iowa campus turns into a postcard-worthy scene that spans from the downtown pedestrian mall to the darling surrounding neighborhoods. Start your self-guided tour in the epicenter of it all, the Pentacrest, where four buildings on the campus surround the Old Capitol Museum.

Stay here: Bunk up at the super-modern Hotel Chauncey , which has 51 spacious suites outfitted with sleek furniture, floor-to-ceiling windows and minimalistic accents. Toss in a rooftop deck, gym and in-room kitchens, and it’s no wonder this place books up early during football season.

16.  St. Joseph, MI

Driving time from Chicago:  One hour and 45 minutes

This Michigan beach town and its twin city Benton Harbor offer picturesque sandy shores, as well as plenty of wine.

Do this: Soaking up the sun on beaches is the most obvious attraction, but once you’ve gotten your fill of vitamin D, hit up the nearby Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail . It’ll take you to wineries up and down the coast, and you can easily spend an entire weekend just swirling, sniffing and sipping.

Stay here: Located along the St. Joseph River, the Inn at Harbor Shores boasts waterfront views and amenities like a spa and a golf course that’s close by. If you don’t feel like leaving the hotel, grab a seat on the patio of the in-house restaurant, Plank’s Tavern on the Water , for a relaxing meal.

17.  Spring Green, WI

Quiet and quaint, it’s easy to see why the scenic village of Spring Green on the Wisconsin River attracted the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright, who made his summer home here at the must-see Taliesin.

Do this:  Get weird and head to the House on the Rock , a curious wonderland of oddities and artifacts that’s set quite literally on a giant rock surrounded by panoramic views of towering trees. Don’t miss the massive indoor carousel or the Infinity Room, an engineering wonder with 3,264 windows that juts out 218 feet over the valley.

Stay here:  Step back in time at Spring Valley Inn , designed by the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture. The small inn on 10 acres of wooded prairie offers unbeatable views of the valley, plus a relaxing bar, patio, fire pit, indoor pool, hot tub and workout room.

18.  Bloomington, IN

This next-level college town has all the big-city amenities you crave, but it’s tucked in the middle of hills, forests and nearby lakes. 

Do this:  Fill up at the intimate Feast Market and Cellar , a family-owned kitchen with a lovely corner porch. The restaurant makes everything from scratch daily, so you know you’re consuming fresh eats, from the mayonnaise to the bread to the macarons.

Stay here: Grant Street Inn , which is within walking distance of downtown and the attractive Indiana University campus, has four-star hotel accommodations with bed-and-breakfast charm. Choose from the main house, built in the 1890s, or any of the other four buildings, each with unique themes and features, from those done up in traditional antique decor to the newest space, a LEED-certified addition.

19.  Toledo, OH

Once a popular stop on the railway line between Chicago and New York, Toledo is still worth a visit, full of Great Lakes history, native greenery and other surprises.

Do this:  Toledo is a paradise for flâneurs—wander the Old West End to take in beautiful Victorian homes that line the peaceful streets, or take a nice, pastoral break in the Swan Creek Preserve . The National Museum of the Great Lakes   offers a fascinating look at the region's history. For a livelier evening, take in some minor league baseball with the Toledo Mud Hens .

Stay here:  Get a room with a view of Lake Erie at the Maumee Bay Lodge , located amid 1,336 acres of natural splendor in Maumee Bay State Park. When you’re not enjoying the private balconies and patios, grab food from the Lodge’s restaurant, hit the links at an 18-hole golf course or go for a hike on a nearby trail.

20.  Fort Wayne, IN

Driving time from Chicago: Three hours

Indiana’s second largest city was once a booming industrial hub with more than 300 churches. But make no mistake—there’s no shortage of small-town charm and plenty of places to let loose.

Do this: Spend an afternoon at Promenade Park where locals congregate on the riverfront for festivals, picnics and water recreation. Grab pizza and beer from local favorite Pint & Slice and don’t miss the photo opportunities in front of murals in the alley.

Stay here: Located in the heart of downtown, The Bradley   is a 124-room, nine-suite boutique hotel featuring murals and decor from local artists. Get great views of the city from the hotel’s rooftop bar, Birdie’s .

21.  Dubuque, IA

This historic Mississippi River settlement’s attraction goes far beyond a visit to the Field of Dreams. It’s easy to get lost in the vivid murals, craft breweries and outdoor art galleries.

Do this: What’s a weekend getaway without a ride up the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railway? Head to Fenelon Place Elevator Co for a 189-foot trip from Fourth Street to Fenelon Place, where you can take in an aerial view of the city.

Stay here:  The century-old Hotel Julien Dubuque  is full of elegance, blending modern luxury with historic charm. It offers 133 rooms and amenities like an indoor pool, spa and fitness center.

22.  Carbondale, IL

This Southern Illinois university town was developed as a result of the railroad, but today is a great jumping off point for exploring Shawnee National Forest and nearby wineries.

Do this: With Carbondale as your home base, take your time exploring the 11 wineries that make up the 40-mile Shawnee Hill Wine Trail . Between wineries, pick up one of The Iron Whisk’s famous Dutch babies (a puffy pancake made in a cast iron pan) from a converted auto garage kitchen in Cobden.

Stay here: Referencing Carbondale’s past as a railroad destination, the  Train Inn is a four-room bed and breakfast in a renovated early 1900s bungalow featuring art deco styling and train memorabilia. Owner Paul Lewers will make your breakfast according to any dietary preferences, but he encourages those willing to venture outside their typical palate to try his red-eye gravy, a speciality made from country ham and coffee.

23.  Columbus, IN

In the heart of Southern Indiana, Columbus is an unexpected center for boundary-pushing architecture—in fact, the American Institute of Architects ranked the city sixth in the nation for architectural innovation.

Do this: Take an Architectural Highlights Tour  of more than 30 of Columbus' structures and learn how this city became the state's award-winning arts and design destination. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, stop by Columbus Bar , the oldest bar and restaurant in town.

Stay here:  Columbus’  Hotel Indigo is a perfect place for architecture- and design-lovers to rest their heads, outfitted with an in-house gallery featuring pieces by regional artists.

24.  Davenport, Iowa

Driving time from Chicago: Two and a half hours

You’ve tried Quad Cities-style pizza, but now it’s time to explore Davenport’s museums, gardens, parks and charming riverfront.

Do this: Glimpse permanent and rotating exhibitions of international and regional works at the Figge Art Museum situated downtown just blocks from the river. Then, make you way to the German American Heritage Center to learn about German immigration and culture—and why some consider Davenport to be the most German city in the U.S. Stay here: Built on the site of Davenport’s first hotel, the city’s industrial and agriculture roots mingle with modern art and design at The Current Iowa , decorated with split canvas photographs of freight cars and colorful paintings of pastoral scenes. Sip the hotel’s namesake cocktail with gin, elderflower, lavender and mint and relax at the  UP Skybar as you watch the sun set over the river.

25.  Kalamazoo, MI

Western Michigan boasts spectacular fall foliage and, in turn, excellent apple-picking conditions. Make Kalamazoo your home base for an excursion and reap the benefits of the lively Midwestern town.

Do this: Husted's Farm Market & Cider Mill is one of several autumnal havens in the region, featuring fresh, pickable produce June through October. When the asparagus, rhubarb and strawberries are gone, you’ll find pumpkins, apples (23 varieties) and gourds in their place.

Stay here:  Enjoy the royal treatment at the Henderson Castle Inn , a bed-and-breakfast in a historic 19th-century mansion. The inn features 12 ornate rooms, spa amenities, a steakhouse, a craft cocktail lounge and high-tea service.

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Hit the road on these easy day trips from Chicago, where affordable fun awaits busy city dwellers

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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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15 Fun Day Trips from Raleigh NC (within a 2-hour drive)

While we love Raleigh and all its glorious attractions, we also love its position in East-Central NC, because it means there are so many options you can take as day trips from Raleigh .

There are so many great getaways you can take from Raleigh, whether you desire a beach break, a foodie paradise, or somewhere historic and full of cultural immersion.

We love living in Raleigh and always find it hard to leave, but if you’ve followed us for a while you know we’re globetrotting travelers at heart, so we also love a short getaway as much as anyone!

We’ve taken many day trips and getaways to explore other interesting places in North Carolina, and so we have listed some of our personal favorite destinations that you can visit in under 2 hours drive from Raleigh.

Best Day Trips From Raleigh NC

We also have a podcast episode on our top five day trips mentioned in this guide, which you’ll find it at the bottom of the post.

1. Wilmington

• Drive time from Raleigh: 2 hours
• Distance: 129.4 miles (208.2 km)

A two hour drive straight down I-40 brings you to the charming port city of Wilmington, NC. Ever since we first moved to Raleigh in 2004, Wilmington has been one of our favorite getaways from Raleigh because it offers something for everyone.

Located on the Cape Fear River, Historic Downtown Wilmington is one of the oldest cities on the east coast with plenty of historical attractions, funky breweries, speakeasies and wine bars, farm-to-table restaurants, galleries, museums, and Victorian-era homes and gardens to explore.

You could say that Wilmington is like a mini version of Savannah and Charleston. 

This city is very walkable and just wandering around town is a great way to take in the pulse of the city.

When you arrive, I suggest grabbing a coffee from the cool local cafe, Bespoke Cafe , they will fuel you up for the day ahead. 

Suggested Activities:

• Stroll the 2 mile scenic Riverwalk and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Cape Fear River. Stop in at markets, unique boutiques, art galleries and locally owned cafés and restaurants.
• Explore the area’s historic roots on a horse-drawn carriage ride of downtown. 
• Visit some of the finest examples of historic antebellum architecture at the Bellamy Mansion , built on the eve of the Civil War.
• Explore The World War II Battleship NORTH CAROLINA , named one of the “Best Museum Ships” by USA TODAY.
• End your day with drinks/dinner whilst taking in sunset at one of the fantastic restaurants along the Riverwalk such as Elijah’s , Pilot House or The George . 
• Explore Wilmington’s 16 breweries on a self-guided brewery tasting tour along the Wilmington Ale Trail. 
• Airlie Gardens , one of the premier gardens in the South and home to the famous nearly 500-year-old Airlie Oak.
• Jungle Rapids Family Fun Park features a waterpark with a wave pool, speed slides and lazy river
• Sip on classic cocktails at The Blind Elephant, a 1920’s Prohibition speakeasy tucked away in a hidden alley. 
• Local musicians frequently play on the back deck at Ogden Tap Room , a family-friendly restaurant with 40 beers on tap and a lawn.
• Cape Fear Riverboats offer daily, narrated one-hour sightseeing tours from March through October.

Read more : Guide on best things to do in Wilmington NC and read more about Wilmington in our suggestions for easy spring break destinations from Raleigh.

2. Wrightsville Beach

• Distance : 131.6 miles (211.7 km)

We’re beach people and we know a good beach town when we see one, and Wrightsville Beach is our favorite of the beach towns in North Carolina.

Although famous for its beach, the town has a lot more going for it than just sand and ocean!

Again, it’s an easy 2 hour drive straight down I-40 and Wrightsville is right right next door to Wilmington (12-miles from downtown).

You could combine it with ½ a day in Wilmington and ½ a day in Wrightsville, but I believe there’s plenty to do in each location to warrant a full day in each.

Wrightsville Beach is a sandy barrier island only 4-miles long and 1,000 – 5,000 feet wide.

It presents the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the calmer waters of the intracoastal waterway on the other.

It has everything we love about a beach and island life – beautiful shoreline, laid back vibe, surf culture, cafes, jaw dropping sunrises and sunsets, and fresh, delicious seafood.

When summer comes, this is one of our most popular Raleigh day trips since we love the beach!

Suggested activities:

• Start your day with an excellent coffee at the cool local cafe, SUNdays, located above the surf shop opposite Crystal Pier. Alternative coffee spot is The Workshop .
• Walk over from SUNdays to Crystal Pier for beautiful views of the beachfront, go for a swim, play in the sand, read a book. 
• Adapt Kitchen & Juice Bar has the tastiest, most diversely nutritious smoothie bowls.
• Lunch at Tower 7 Baja Mexican Grill . Popular place to eat for the locals. Other options include Shark Bar & Kitchen , Poe’s Tavern , South Beach Grille .
• Beach Time at Johnny Mercer’s Pier (the only concrete fishing pier in the state of North Carolina and extends more than 1,200 feet into the Atlantic) or at the Crystal Pier section!
• Go kayaking or paddle boarding through the salt marshes on a guided tour with Wrightsville SUP .
• Wrightsville Beach Brewery for great beers and pub food.
• Lighthouse Beer & Wine – one stop shop with dog-friendly Beer Garden
• Enjoy sundowner drinks at the bar on Crystal Pier.
• Watch the sunset at the South End. 
• Dinner at Ceviche’s – probably the best restaurant in Wrightsville. Hello Panama, I now want to visit your country (or one of the lunch places options).

Related Reading: 1 day itinerary for Wrightsville Beach and an ultimate list of things to do in Wrightsville Beach

Wrightsville Highlights Video

• Drive time from Raleigh: 30-40 minutes
• Distance: 26 miles (41.8km)

Southern Living magazine calls it “the South’s tastiest town”.

And Forbes.com ranks it one of “America’s Smartest Cities” .

If you haven’t given Durham much thought, pay attention because it has plenty of cool and interesting things to do, and the food scene is next level. 

This is a vibrant city, offering sports, history, the arts and a community of over 300 restaurants and 40+ annual festivals. All in less than a 45 minute drive.

Durham continues to evolve. It’s where tobacco factories have given way to a hip entertainment district. It’s where Duke University lives, where the Durham Bulls play baseball, and where top shelf musicals like Hamilton perform at the Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC).

Being so close, this is one of our most frequent day trips from Raleigh and we always find something new to do.

• Grab a signature coffee and churros at Cocoa Cinnamon (there are 3 locations).
• Breakfast at iconic Elmo’s Diner on 9th Street.
• Visit Duke University Chapel and walk around the campus.
• Picnic in Sarah P. Duke Gardens (ranked one of the ten best public parks in the US), 
• Basketball fan? Don’t miss the Duke Basketball Museum & Sports Hall of Fame
• Explore, shop and eat at the American Tobacco Campus .
• Enjoy a beer in the beer garden at Bull McCabes Irish Pub
• Burgers & beers at Bull City Burger & Brewery
• Civil War buff? Check out the Bennett Place State Historic Site .
• Art lovers can visit Duke University’s Nasher Museum , known for housing one of the most expansive collections of Medieval art.
• Don’t miss a Durham Bulls baseball game! This is minor league baseball at its best!
• Get some comfort food at the “Almost” World Famous Dame’s Chicken & Waffles .
• Walk Black Wall Street which was the hub of African American financial activity in the late 1800s and early 1900s. 
• Take in a show at DPAC (over 200 performances a year).
• Run or walk on one of the many trails in Duke Forest .
• High Tea at the Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
• Shop and dine at Brightleaf Square that encompasses two restored tobacco warehouses.
• Pizza from Pie Pushers or Pizzeria Toro
• Ninth Street District is a college enclave complete with unique shops and restaurants along a quaint street – our fave, shop for vinyls and drink beer at Hunky Dory Records on 9th Street
• See the most endangered mammals on earth at Duke Lemur Center .
• Love bakeries? Visit Ninth Street Bakery or Guglhupf Bakery, Cafe & Biergarten .
• Quench your thirst at one of these local Durham Breweries . 
• Families will love The Museum of Life + Science with hands-on and interactive exhibits.
• Learn more about Durham at the Museum of Durham History

4. Chapel Hill

• Drive time from Raleigh: 40 minutes
• Distance: 28.3 miles (45.5km)

This famous university town is known as one of the top 10 best college towns in the USA, and the “Southern Part of Heaven” .

It’s also known for its famed music scene and as “America’s Foodiest Small Town” by Bon Appetit because of the high quality of farmer’s markets, restaurants, and farms.

Home to the campus of the University of North Carolina – the nation’s first public university and its basketball team – Chapel Hill has a little bit of something for everyone.

The heart of Chapel Hill is Historic Franklin Street , home to more than 200 restaurants, bars, and retail stores.

You can spend 1/2 a day to a full day here and see all the highlights.

• Coffee and treats at Epilogue Books Chocolate Brews – cool locally owned cafe, book store, chocolate shop right on Franklin St.
• Eat and drink at the Carolina Coffee Shop , North Carolina’s Oldest Restaurant.
• Brandweine’s Bagels – classic NY style bagels.
• Walk the UNC campus. Look for historic landmarks like the Davie Poplar and the Old Well ( self-guided tours available ).
• Basketball fans, don’t miss the Carolina Basketball Museum .
• Catch a star show at the Morehead Planetarium & Science Center .
• Al’s Burger Shack – possibly the best burgers in CH.
• Merritt’s Grill – Great sandwiches. Double or triple decker with pimento cheese on rye!
• Time Out – an institution and famous for Chicken ‘n Cheddar Biscuit and Southern comfort food.
• Drinks and a bite to eat at the iconic Top of the Hill Restaurant & Brewery (TOPO) that boasts a panoramic view of downtown. 
• Ackland Art Museum consists of more than 18,000 works of art.
• Do a free walking tour or self-guided driving tour of Chapel Hill.
• Legendary Sutton’s Drug Store has been serving up shakes, burgers & more since 1923.
• Quench your thirst at the Carolina Brewery , a mainstay for Chapel Hill residents.
• He’s Not Here – a legendary bar and home of the Blue Cup. 
• For garden lovers, the North Carolina Botanical Garden is a conservation garden.
• Discover over 30 murals in the downtown area.
• Explore 17 miles of urban greenways and trails .
• The Carolina Inn’s Fridays on the Front Porch series features live music on the lawn of this charming historic hotel. 
• Spend an afternoon lounging at The Honeysuckle Tea House , built on shipping containers.
• Dinner at IL Palio (the only 4 diamond Italian restaurant in the state) inside the Sienna Hotel is amazing!

5. Winston-Salem

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 40 minutes
• Distance : 103.4 miles (166.4 km)

Head west on I-40 for just under 2 hours and you’ll arrive in Winston-Salem, a charming city that’s home to historic attractions.

From cobblestone streets, to museums, breweries, restaurants, art galleries, eclectic shops, outdoor adventures and more than 40 wineries in the neighboring Yadkin Valley, Winston-Salem is worth a day trip from Raleigh. 

There’s interesting history here. The Moravians (Protestants who spoke German) settled this region in the 1750s. Salem is the original, if quieter, half of the twin city.

Winston-Salem is also a town built on tobacco, often referred to as “Camel City” after the world-famous cigarette brand created by R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company.

This city is also the home of Wake Forest University .

• Grab a hot cup of locally roasted coffee and farm-fresh breakfast at a Winston-Salem original, Krankies .
• Historic Bethabara Park – the very first Moravian settlement in North Carolina.
• Old Salem Museum and Gardens – founded in 1766 and one of the country’s most well-documented historic sites.
• Historic West End – where early 1900s Victorian-style homes meet the hustle and bustle of downtown Winston-Salem.
• Reynolda House Museum of American Art – explore the restored 1917 mansion of Katharine and R.J. Reynolds.
• Grab a gourmet sandwich or Moravian Chicken Pie at Muddy Creek Cafe .
• Visit one of the 45 wineries located in neighboring Yadkin Valley .
• Tour the city by Segway, SUP Tours, e-BIKE Tours, Trolley Sightseeing with Triad Eco Adventures
• Take home some specialty dark chocolate from Black Mountain Chocolate .
• The town of Bethania is the only remaining example of an open field agricultural village in NC
• Salem God’s Acre Cemetery –  active graveyard of the Salem Congregation, a group of 12 Moravian Churches. It has been in continuous use from 1771
• Ryan’s Restaurant – Steaks,Chops & Seafood, nestled in a wooded setting minutes from downtown
• Drink a brew at Foothills Brewing , one of the largest craft breweries in the Southeastern USA.
• The Tavern In Old Salem – a restored 1816 house and the waiters wear traditional Moravian costumes.

6. Johnston County (Clayton, Benson, Smithfield)

• Drive time – Clayton: 25 mins, Smithfield: 40 mins, Benson: 35 mins
• Distance: 32.8 miles (52.7 km)

Don’t overlook Johnston County (JoCo) when looking for places to visit near Raleigh NC.

JoCo is one of the biggest counties in North Carolina , and the next county south of Raleigh.

The I-95, running along the north-south corridor of the country, runs close by. The I-40 runs through the east-west corridor of the county JoCo.

So it’s location is important, but you don’t want to make it just a place to grab some fuel and pass on through. JoCo is worth stopping in for a while.

The below three towns you could easily incorporate into one day trip, going in a triangle like direction from Raleigh > Clayton > Smithfiled > Benson > Raleigh.

Clayton is a small town community that has been booming with transplants and where you’ll find boutique stores, historic buildings, charming southern homes, and hipster cafes and bars. 

• The Market at Three Little Birds – a store selling unique, handcrafted items from over 70 local artists.
• Boulevard West – hipster café experience where you’ll find locals on their laptops at the bar drinking all manners of coffee concoctions.
• Dinner at Crawford Cookshop (Clayton), amazing food by Raleigh’s award-winning chef, Scott Crawford.
• Drinks at Revival 1869 (Clayton), awesome whiskey and cocktail bar.
• Lunch at The Gildered Pear Brew House (Smithfield) locals favorite spot.
• Boutique shopping at The Dragonfly (Smithfield)
• Shop for cool home decor items at Twisted Willow (Smithfield)
• Ava Gardner Museum (Smithfield)
• Nancy Jo’s Homemade (Clayton) – a local’s favorite for many years. Famous for its chicken salad
• Clayton General Store – cool milkshake bar and home decor items
• Main Street Community Market (Clayton) – Volunteers help maintain this tranquil, artistic space

Smithfield has small-town charm. Situated along the Neuse River, it’s the seat of the county and the hub of business activity.

70 million visitors enjoy the savings at Carolina Premium Outlets every year.

So while you are popping in to shop while you drop, be sure to visit these other places.

• Ava Gardner Museum – known as the most beautiful movie star of the 40’s and 50’s. Ava was from JoCo and this museum is dedicated to telling the story of her life, loves and careers.
• Simple Twist – one of the most popular restaurants in Smithfield NC
• Oak City Collection – filled with local artist’s creations of signs, T-Shirts and jewelry.
• Double Barley Brewery – If you’re looking for local craft brew, this family-friendly brewery has won multiple awards for their beers.
• Bentonville Battlefield – The largest Civil War battle happened near Bentonville and it’s now an historic site and part of the Civil War Trail.

Benson is well known for hosting Mule Day on the 4th Saturday of September, a festival that attracts over 60,000 people each year.

• Jp’s Pastry – a thriving bakery business that is the only certified gluten free bakery in North and South Carolina.
• Dixie Divas Boutique – women’s clothing store. Check out the boots!
• Salvaged Heirlooms – an eclectic little general store is filled with local artists that remind you of the warmth. 
• Cornerstone Cafe & Coffee – known for its waffles, mac & cheese and grilled cheese sandwiches.
• Redneck BBQ Lab – award winning BBQ joint, everything smoked on the property, nothing is grilled or fried.

7. New Bern

• Distance: 116.1 miles (186.8 km)

Founded in 1710, historic New Bern (named after Bern, Switzerland) is a charming riverfront town set along the picturesque Trent and Neuse Rivers, and was the first state capital of NC.

Home to Tryon Palace and the birthplace of Pepsi Cola, New Bern is also filled with quaint restaurants and cafes, art galleries, antique stores, riverfront attractions and outdoor activities and offers something for everyone.

Romantic movie lovers will be interested to know that in 1996 The Notebook was set in New Bern and written by New Bern resident, Nicholas Sparks!

Bern is the old Germanic word for Bear, and the bear became the symbol of the city.

• Visit Tryon Place , the first permanent capitol of North Carolina and home to the Tryon family.
• Do a self-guided tour including Historic Homes Tour, Civil War Tour, Architectural tour and more.
• Or a guided tour by trolley, boat, or ghost walk. 
• Visit the signature Pepsi Store. Pull up to the fountain bar and enjoy a glass of Pepsi
• Enjoy the scenic 6 acre waterfront, Union Point Park
• Go kayaking up the Neuse River with Stillwater Kayaks
• Cow Cafe for sandwiches, salads, and over 60 flavors of their famous HOMEMADE ICE CREAM!
• Visit the very place Pepsi-Cola was invented . Step back in time enjoying a fountain Pepsi. 
• Chase bears all over town . Don’t worry, these bears are made of fiberglass. 
• The interior of Christ Episcopal Church was designed in the style of Christopher Wren, the famous English architect. A must see for visitors.
• New Bern Battlefield Park (if you love Civil War History)
• Firemen’s Museum – tells the story of the oldest fire company in NC
• North Carolina History Center
• Carolina Creations – an art gallery with artworks from over 300 local and international artists
• Baker’s Kitchen – for delights like sweet potato biscuits, Dutch potatoes, and biscuits and gravy.
• Morgan’s Tavern & Grill – for seafood in an historic setting.
• Brewery99 – first brewery in Craven County.
• Beer Army Burger Company – for unique and interesting burgers, Bacon appetizers, and tater tots.
• Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant – expect good food and the best outdoor dining experience in town!

8. Fayetteville

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour
• Distance: 64.6 miles (103.9 km)

Fayetteville’s tourism slogan is, “Welcome to America’s Hometown: History, Heroes, A Hometown Feeling!”

You might know of Fayetteville as home to the U.S. Army’s most populous base, Fort Bragg. The community wears this distinction proudly and shows its appreciation by actively pursuing the freedoms those soldiers protect.

Here you will find museums and monuments dedicated to telling the story of the service of many of the men and women in the area who sacrificed, and they are one of the most moving things to see in North Carolina.

But Fayetteville’s ongoing revitalization also offers a vibrant and modern city with interesting cultural activities, historic sites and natural beauty.

• The Airborne and Special Operations Museum – the only museum that tells the comprehensive history of US Army Airborne and Special Operations troops.
• North Carolina Veterans Park – honors veterans from all branches of service throughout North Carolina.
• Cape Fear Botanical Garden – 80 acres nestled between the Cape Fear River and Cross Creek.
• Poe House – peek into the past.
• Lunch or dinner at Huske Hardware Brewing Company – locals fave gastropub. 
• Lunch at Scrub Oaks Restaurant – contemporary American menu common to a neighborhood pub but with flare.
• Lunch at New Deli Restaurant – specialty grilled cheeses, to pizzas and paninis.
• Winterbloom Tea – a unique, customized tea experience.
• Zipline through the trees with ZipQuest Adventure – one of the Top 10 ziplines
• Carvers Creek State Park – It houses James Stillman Rockefeller’s winter estate and the rare longleaf pine ecosystem.
• Cape Fear River Trail – winds for 5 miles through a beautiful blend of trees, plants and wildlife.

9. Greenville, NC

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 20 minutes
• Distance: 84 miles (135.1 km)

Greenville is known as a thriving cultural, educational, economic, and medical hub of Eastern North Carolina, and of course, the home of East Carolina University (ECU).

It’s a place where you can experience vibrant art, live music, and the culinary scene in the Uptown Greenville and Dickinson Avenue Districts.

There’s outdoor adventures like kayaking, biking the Greenville Greenway, agricultural experiences at local farms, plus antique and boutique shopping, live music concerts and festivals.

You can taste test your way through local restaurants and breweries in the walkable Uptown and Dickinson Avenue Districts.

Throughout the year there’s craft beer festivals, indoor and outdoor farmers markets, and food truck rodeos.

• Explore over 7 miles of the Greenville Greenway
• Paddle the Tar River with Knee Deep Adventures
• Visit East Carolina University
• River Park North – canoe, walk the trails, fish, have a picnic, or just enjoy nature!
• The Scullery Coffeehouse and Creamery
• Dickinson Avenue Antique Market
• Uptown Brewing & Pitt Street Brewing
• B’s Barbecue – a Greenville landmark
• Brew & ‘Cue Trail
• PirateFest (April) their largest festival
• See a concert at Whirligig Stage
• The Venue – vintage shoppes & antique mall
• Greenville Museum of Art
• Greenville Antique Market

10. Hillsborough

• Drive time from Raleigh: 45 minutes
• Distance: 37.9 miles (60.9 km)

Established in 1784 and located along the Eno River, Hillsborough has served as a focal point for major historic events, including the Revolutionary War and Civil War.

Located in Orange County, between Greensboro and Durham, it’s easily accessible via I-40 near Chapel Hill, and I-85 near Durham. 

Hillsborough’s downtown historic district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and features more than 100 homes, churches, schools, and other structures from the late 18th and 19th centuries.

Today, Hillsborough is a haven for artists and writers, for barbecue lovers attending the annual Hog Day, and owntown comes alive Friday evenings with arts and entertainment during Last Fridays celebrations. 

Its scenic appeal, graceful architecture, and convenient location provide a charming getaway from Raleigh. Go and explore history, live music, unique shops, and award winning restaurants.

Suggested activities: 

• Explore the historic, and small, downtown
• Riverwalk – about 2 miles long
• Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area
• Ayr Mount Historic Site
• Burwell School Historic Site
• Eno River Farm – for strawberry picking in season
• Occoneechee Speedway – NASCAR’s first Superspeedway, now hiking trails!
• The Visitor Center – an old farmhouse built around 1790 
• Last Fridays Art event – beginning in April
• Old Town Cemetery – dates back to 1757 with over 180 grave markers
• Cup-A-Joe (local institution for coffee lovers)
• Saratoga Grill (seafood, salads and sandwiches)
• Panciuto (farm to fork menu)

11. Pilot Mountain State Park

• Drive time from Raleigh : 2 hours
• Distance: 122 miles (196.3 km)

Located 20 miles northwest of Winston-Salem near the border with Virginia, Pilot Mountain State Park centers around the iconic geologic knob that serves as a beacon to the surrounding Piedmont. 

Once a navigational landmark for the Saura tribe, the Big Pinnacle can be viewed from the park’s summit area which also provides panoramic views of the Piedmont and the Sauratown and Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Pilot Mountain has miles of trails to explore, and you can journey through the park on foot, on horseback, or in a canoe.

• Hiking – trails take hikers around the mountain base, up Little Pinnacle, and along the Yadkin River. Two of North Carolina’s state trails traverse the park:  the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail, and the Yadkin River paddle trail.
• Bicycling – for experienced cyclists, the main park road is popular for hill climbing by bicycle. The road averages a 10 percent grade for 2.5 miles and has sections of 16 percent grade.
• Horse riding – The Corridor Trail, Yadkin Islands Trail, and Yadkin River Park Trail are all open to horseback riding.
• Paddling – Paddle the Yadkin River through the park on a segment of the Yadkin River State Trail
• Rock climbing and rappelling are allowed on portions of the park’s steep cliffs.

• Drive time from Raleigh:   15 – 20 minutes
• Distance : 12.1 miles (19.4 km)

The closest day trip from Raleigh is Cary. When we first moved to Raleigh in 2004, we never visited Cary, in fact, we didn’t even know there was a downtown Cary.

Fast forward to today and you can easily spend a full day in Cary, not just downtown, but the surrounding area.

The downtown area has been through major changes in recent years and we’ve grown to love how charming and vibrant and fun downtown has become with new restaurants, breweries, bars and cafes.

Cary is now home to some of the best places to eat and drink in the Triangle, and there’s some great nature trails and parks in Cary too.

If you have overlooked Cary downtown in the past, it’s time to take a look. 

• Get your coffee fix at BREW
• Stroll downtown: S. Academy and East & West Chatham Streets
• Big Dom’s Bagel Shop for great bagels
• La Farm Bakery
• 2 mile loop walk around Bond Lake
• Soda Fountain (Ashworth’s Drugs),a Town of Cary institution 
• Ashworth Village – local boutiques, art galleries, consignment shops and eateries
• Cotton House Craft Brewers
• Academy Street Bistro
• FRESH Local Ice Cream
• Explore Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve
• Bond Brothers Beer Company
• Pharmacy Bottle Shop
• SideBar Cocktail Bar
• Di Fara Pizza Tavern
• Hanks Dive Bar
• Chatham Street Wine Market
• The Cary Theater – a 175 seat art house and theater 
• Bosphorus Restaurant – great Turkish food
• Kababish Cafe – good Indian food

13. Southern Pines (Pinehurst)

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 15 minutes
• Distance : 70.2 miles (112.9 km)

The small southern town of Southern Pines is a town in Moore County among the sandhills.

Originally founded in 1884 as a winter health resort for northerners, the town has a rich history and has seen lots of growth in recent years. 

Internationally known as the home of American golf (the famous Pimehurst is 10 minutes away), but it’s not just for golfers! Southern Pines is also nationally known and referred to as “Horse Country” for its abundance of horse farms in the area, plus there’s nice parks and a growing number of craft breweries.

As for downtown Southern Pines, it is embodied in its unique array of shops including historic buildings. Enjoy these Moore County trails while in the Pinehurst area.

• Stroll around downtown
• Pinehurst Resort (visit the resort or play golf)
• Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities (stunning gardens)
• Hiking or biking the trails on the Boyd Round Timber Tract or Weymouth Woods Sandhill Nature Preserve
• Southern Pines Brewing – great local beers
• Bell Tree Restaurant and Tavern (stylish, old-school watering hole with pub food)
• The Ice Cream Parlor Restaurant (traditional small town ice cream shop)
• The Sunrise Theater (for new and classic films, and concerts)
• SoPies – low-key counter-serve outlet offering NY style pies
• Sandhills Horticultural Gardens
• Aberdeen Lake Park (walking path around the lake, playground for kids)
• Sly Fox Pub (British classics with an innovative twist)
• Take a drive over to North Carolina Zoo to see more than 1,700 animals

14. Eno River State Park

• Distance: 35.5 miles (57.1 km)

Located just 15-minutes northwest of Durham, Eno River State Park is composed of more than 4,200 acres and offers nearly 30 miles of trails along a swift, shallow stream. 

If you’re looking for day trips from Raleigh that involve a day in nature, there’s plenty to do here from hiking, paddling, fording the river, bouldering, picnicking, swimming/wading, hammocking, and general exploration. 

The river winds through hills and bluffs with shrubs and pines that are ready to be hiked and enjoyed through one of five access points. 

• Hike one of the 17 trails, good for all levels
• Canoeing and kayaking are permitted, but sometimes challenging due to shallow water.
• Swimming: our friend’s from Durham took us to Eno Rock Quarry
• Fishing: a great place for fly-fishing, casting lures, or baiting with the ever reliable worms and crickets
• Picnicking: two picnic areas provide the perfect spot for enjoying a meal in the open air.
• Camping: there’s backpack and group camping options

15. Kinston

• Drive time from Raleigh: 1 hour, 30 minutes
• Distance: 81.6 miles (131.3 km)

Set along the banks of the Neuse River in the coastal plains region of eastern North Carolina, Kinston is one of the oldest towns in the state and has been the county seat of Lenoir County since its formation in 1791.

If you’ve heard of Vivian Haward’s Chef and the Farmer, and Mother Earth Brewing, that’s Kinston.

Here you will discover 300 years of history, an impressive food scene, arts scene, and Kinston’s musical roots run deep. 

There’s no shortage of war history, including the Tuscarora War, the Revolutionary War, and the Civil War, and is part of the African American Musical Heritage Trail with a fascinating music history – during its tobacco days, Kinston was a hotbed of music, and musicians traveled from all over to play in the tobacco warehouses, including James Brown.

• Pop into the Kinston visitors center (Mon – Sat) conveniently located downtown for local advice on what to do, maps, and guides. Then take a stroll around downtown. 
• CSS Neuse Civil War Interpretive Center – an educational museum that tells the story of the Civil War in the United States and the CSS Neuse, one of 26 ironclad ships commissioned by the Confederate navy.
• Chef and the Farmer – eat at Vivian Howard’s restaurant, known for thoughtful, creative cooking rooted in this region’s ingredients and traditions.
• Mother Earth Brewing   – a green-conscious craft brewery with a solar-powered taproom, lively beer garden, really good barrel-aged brews and interesting seasonals.
• Community Council for the Arts (CCA) is a non-profit organization and a gallery featuring local artwork and offering educational programs
• African American Music Trail – great way to learn more about Kinston’s African American music scene.
• Historic Harmony Hall – a restored pre-American Revolution home built in 1772 and housed the first governor of North Carolina, Richard Caswell, served as a Civil War hospital, church, public library, and is said to be haunted.
• King’s BBQ – offering world famous chicken and barbecue since 1936
• Sugar Hill Pizzeria – pizza by the slice, Brooklyn style pizza
• Boiler Room Oyster Bar- another Vivian Howard restaurant. Oysters, burgers and beer.
• The O’Neil – a 1920s bank turned boutique hotel.
• Pearson Park – part of the Pearson Park Trail that runs parallel to the Neuse River for about 3/8’s mile from the southern end of Pollock Street ending onto South Heritage Street. Largest part is the Loch Neuse Dragon Playground.
• Mitchelltown Historic District – listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with fine examples of the Queen Anne, Classical and Neo-Classical Revival, Colonial Revival, Craftsman, and Spanish Mission Revival styles and numerous illustrations of the American Foursquare and the Bungalow. Northwest of the city.

Raleigh Day Trips Podcast Episode

For those who may prefer watching a video of us podcasting, we filmed that for you too, which you’ll find on  YouTube each week .

You can also find all of these locations on this helpful map. You can download this map and see suggested drive times by clicking the square icon on the top right corner.

I hope this list of day trips from Raleigh helped you find some interesting and fun getaway ideas? Let us know which day trip you love in the comments!

About The Author

Craig Makepeace

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17 Easy Weekend Getaways From NYC

By Alex Erdekian and Hannah Towey

Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while. (As for visitors, you too can get the true New England experience by pairing your city break with a local-loved side trip, or two.)

Disappearing into the woods, soaking up salty sea air, or getting lost in wine country all have their charms—and thankfully, all of the above are available just a few hours from Manhattan via rail, bus, or rental car . From the Hamptons to the Adirondacks, beaches, islands, and mountains are all easily accessible from New York City. Some of them may leave you wondering why New York's surrounding destinations don't get more buzz in the first place.

Below, the 17 best weekend getaways from NYC. Here's to checking them all of your bucket list. (For the best restaurants, hotels, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City travel guide .)

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

The quintessential beach town: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Just over an hour’s drive

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

The suburban sanctuary: Fairfield County, Connecticut

About a one-hour train ride via Metro-North

When you’re pressed on time and need a low-key break from the city, do as commuters do and escape to the ‘burbs. Hop on the Metro-North New Haven Line out of Grand Central and take an hour train to one of Fairfield County's numerous charming towns and cities. From coastal enclaves like Greenwich and Westport to more wooded areas like New Canaan and Wilton, the variety of Connecticut's suburbs may surprise you. Fairfield County doesn’t claim the tri-state’s best beaches, to be sure, but there’s plenty of summer fun to be had along Long Island Sound: take a kayak, sailboat, or ferry between the Norwalk Islands, stroll down one of the area’s many public beaches , or savor local seafood (be sure to order a round of Copps Island oysters) at Knot Norms , Rowayton Seafood , The Whelk , or L’Escale . There’s outdoor attractions beyond the beach, too: New Canaan’s Grace Farms, Stamford’s Cove Island Park, and Darien’s newly-opened Great Island offer acres of walking paths and recreational space. Book a stay at the Inn at Gray Barns or the Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel, or rent a cozy Airbnb to truly settle in—without settling down.

The rural retreat: Manchester, Vermont

About a four-hour drive (or bus)

When you feel the need to go off-the-grid, the Green Mountain State is always a good idea for a long weekend in nature—whether you’re after winter snow or fall foliage. The idyllic town of Manchester located nearby Stratton Mountain Resort allows for just the right amount of isolation where you can relax in peaceful solitude without sacrificing top-notch restaurants, shopping, and human interaction (should you desire). Pro tip for the driving-averse New Yorkers out there: the Hampton Jitney runs a winter route between NYC and Manchester from December to March, departing on Fridays and returning each Sunday (fares start at $69). Stay at local establishment The Equinox , or drive a few towns over to exciting newcomer The Weston .

The historical jaunt: Boston

About a four hour train ride via Amtrak Acela

New Yorkers and Bostonians may go head-to-head at times, but if you’re looking for a change of scenery without giving up your cosmopolitan comforts, a weekend trip to Boston might just be what the doctor ordered. The Amtrak Acela departing from Penn Station clocks in at just under four hours, arriving at South Station between downtown Boston and the waterfront. Upon arrival, walk along the cobblestone streets of the Freedom Trail and duck into some of the country’s finest restaurants, bars, and historic sites along the way. Take in the architecture of Boston’s South End or explore neighboring communities Cambridge and Sommerville . There’s no shortage of great hotels in Boston —old or new—making the classic New England city an ideal weekend excursion for every type of traveler.

Emily Saladino

Mark Ellwood

The good-time island: Fire Island, New York

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

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

The city break: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

The posh beach hang: The Hamptons

About a two-hour drive

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

The eclectic island: Martha’s Vineyard

A five-hour ferry ride

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

The wine tour: The Finger Lakes

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

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

The nautical overnight: Mystic, Connecticut

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

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

The classic coastal destination: Newport, Rhode Island

About a three-hour drive

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

The quick camping trip: Cold Spring

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

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

The off-season gem: Lake Placid

About a five-hour drive

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

The mountain escape: The Berkshires

About a three-and-a-half hour drive

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

The great outdoors: Lake George

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

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

The peaceful spot: North Fork, Long Island

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

The artist’s haven: Woodstock

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

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30 Awesome Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

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

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

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

30 Top Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

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

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

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

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

Go On A Safari At The Wilds

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

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

Relax In Croctail Creek At The Columbus Zoo

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

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

Sip And Shop Your Way Through Little Nashville

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bike The Monon Trail

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

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

Go Snorkeling In A Crystal Clear Lake

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

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

Explore the Old Athens Lunatic Asylum

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

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

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

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

Discover The Historic Side Of Lexington

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

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

Stay In A Historic Shaker Village

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

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

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

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

Catch An Outdoor Drama In Chillicothe

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

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

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

Create Your Own Unique Bourbon Trail Experience

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

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

Drive Through A Cave In Louisville

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

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

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

Hike The Trails Of Red River Gorge

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

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

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

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

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

Discover Preble County’s Historic Bridges

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

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

Embrace The Irish Culture In Dublin, OH

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

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

Peer Inside Old Man’s Cave

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

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

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

Walkthrough The Vibrant And Eclectic Town Of Yellow Springs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tucked away in Alexandria, Indiana, hanging from an industrial size hook, is the World’s Largest Ball of Paint. What once started as a humble baseball now has over 26,000 layers of paint and counting.

Visitors to this Guinness Book of World Records Holding attraction can add a layer to the ever-growing ball. The attraction is free to the public; however, you must call ahead and schedule a time.

The World’s Largest Ball of Paint is at the Carmicheal home and is open by appointment only. A quick google search will yield the current phone number to contact to set up your tour.

Go Swimming at an Old Quarry in La Grange, KY

Another great day trip within two hours from Cincinnati is La Grange, KY.  Adults can cool off at Falling Rock Park .  It is an old rock quarry that is maintained solely through rainwater! Anyone over 18 can bring a pool raft, noodle, kayak, or paddleboard and relax.

While you are visiting, be sure to visit Mainstreet La Grange, one of the few places in the country where the train runs right down the middle of the road.

Hartman Rock Garden

Venture off the beaten path with a visit to the Hartman Rock Garden a spectacular collection of art made by self-taught artist Ben Hartman. One man’s legacy has become a unique Ohio roadside attraction drawing thousands of visitors annually. The garden is free to visit and is open year-round.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

One of the best day trips from Cincinnati is a visit to the Wright-Patterson Airforce Base, known as the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This historic treasure is the world’s largest  Military Aviation Museum. The Museum is FREE to the public and is open daily, except holidays.

The Air Force Museum has an impressive collection of iconic planes that will leave your inner child wanting to climb inside each one. The history and artifacts found throughout the museum are second to none.  Learn about the history of the Wright Brothers, see the plane that dropped the bomb on Hiroshima, and then check out the rockets in the space exhibit.

Tip: Be sure to check their special events to see when they will having their annual Airshows!

Explore Downtown Hamilton Ohio

One of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati is to Hamiton, Ohio. This small town is the perfect shopping retreat as chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, along with new experiences are popping up all over. Take a stroll along the Greater Miami River, visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, and learn about the fascinating history of Fort Hamilton. Start planning your trip to Downtown Hamilton Ohio .

Big Bone Lick State Park

Big Bone Lick State Park in Union, Kentucky, gives visitors the unique opportunity to view bison completely free! Remains of ancient mammoths and Pleistocene megafauna have been found in the area, making it known as the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

With plenty of hiking trails, a family-friendly campground, educational exhibits, a visitor center, and a museum, Big Bone Lick is the perfect Kentucky day trip or weekend getaway.

Tip : Big Bone Lick is near the Rabbit Hash General Store.

Explore Columbus

Columbus provides a mecca of entertainment options, from the bizarre art at Otherworld to the acclaimed LEGOLAND and everything in between! It is easy to spend a day or a week exploring all that this capital city has to offer.

Whether you are venturing up for an overnight at the Brewdog Hotel or planning a visit to COSI, Columbus makes the perfect day trip from Cincinnati.

See The Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals

Where the Scioto River meets the Ohio River lays the sleepy small town of Portsmouth, Ohio. Stroll the magnificent floodwall murals, hunt for antiques, or take a peaceful hike through Shawnee State Park.

The Portsmouth  Ohio Floodwall Murals  are an iconic Ohio landmark that portrays the local history through exquisitely painted murals. Over 55 murals adorn the floodwalls, each depicting a moment in time.

While you are there, discover these Great Things To Do In Portsmouth, Ohio.

Catch The View From Rising Park

Soak in breathtaking views of Lancaster, Ohio, by climbing to the top of Rising Park’s Mount Pleasant. Arguably one of Ohio’s most spectacular views, Mount Pleasant overlooks the city of Lancaster with the surrounding foothills in the distance.

To get to the top of Mount Pleasant, visitors enter through Rising Park. A parking lot is adjacent to the trailhead, directly past the tennis courts. The climb is moderate; however, remember that you will gain 206ft in elevation in about .7 miles. It took us roughly 45 minutes round trip, but you can stay up and enjoy the view for hours.

Visit Serpent Mound

Unknown to many, Ohio is home to the world’s largest effigy mound. The Great Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is surrounded by mystery, wonder, and tradition. It is a National Historic Landmark that should be on every Ohio Bucket List. Here are five fun things to do during a visit to Serpent Mound.

Ohio is full of remarkable earthworks, so much so that there is an Ancient Trail to help you discover them all.

Explore The Charming Small Town Of Troy, Ohio

The charming area of downtown Troy is one of the best-hidden gems in Ohio. Right in the heart of Miami County, Troy offers visitors unique adventures, family-friendly parks, and tons of midwest hospitality. Discover the history, taste the flavors, and join in on incredible local events.

Feeling adventurous? Troy offers one of the few places guests can stay overnight in Floating Tents .

Fun Day Trips Without Leaving Cincinnati

You don’t have to hit the open road to plan a great day trip from Cincinnati. Cincinnati is a huge city full of activities. Here is a list of the best day trips without leaving the city.

• Explore the riverwalks along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati.
• Spend the day riding roller coasters at Kings Island.
• Stroll the galleries at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
• Get a day pass to Great Wolf Lodge in Mason.
• Sign-up for a behind-the-scenes opportunity at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
• Tour the American Sign Museum.
• Catch a Red’s Game at the Great American Ball Park.
• Create your own Streetcar Tour.
• Eat your way through Findlay Market.

Looking For A Weekend Getaway From Cincinnati? 

On the hunt for a relaxing lake getaway a little over four hours from Cincinnati? Consider a visit to Put-In-Bay .  Known as the “Key West” of the North, many guests come to enjoy the beautiful lake views, entertainment, and history.  Hop on the ferry to the island,  rent a golf cart, and spend the day exploring this unique Ohio destination.

Get our complete guide to one of Ohio’s beautiful islands; Middle Bass Island!

More Day Trips From Cincinnati

Looking for more great day trips within two hours from Cincinnati?

A Girlfriend Getaway To Springfield, Ohio 

17 things to do in santa claus, indiana , 11 outdoor activities to do in richmond indiana , 30 day trips within two hours from cincinnati.

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• Getaways From New York City

19 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

New Yorkers don't need to travel far to travel well.

There are countless ways to spend a weekend in New York City, but sometimes, you just need to escape the grind. The best weekend getaways will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to get back to the hustle and bustle after a few blissful days away.

Fortunately for New Yorkers, an escape from the Big Apple is never more than a few hours away. Whether you envision yourself as a total beach bum or want to walk in the footsteps of America's founding fathers, there are perfect weekend trips from NYC for every type of traveler.

Check out craft breweries in Vermont, watch the famed WaterFire display in Providence, Rhode Island, or make your way to the beach on the Jersey Shore with these weekend getaways from NYC.

1. Long Beach Island, New Jersey: 2-Hour Drive

This barrier island just off the coast of southern New Jersey is a place where life comes to a standstill in the best way possible. Stretching for 20 stunning miles, Long Beach Island is the spot to be for city dwellers looking to get away, bask in the sun, or go on a little sightseeing adventure.

On the island, visitors can climb 217 steps to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse , also known as "Old Barney," to take in views of Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, or they can shop for coastal-inspired kitchenware and swimsuit coverups in Viking Village , where old fishing shacks have been lovingly converted into cafés and boutiques.

For those traveling in a pack, there's Pinky Shrimp's Seafood Company , where you and your entire crew can gather for the "fried family feast" of shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, and more. Another stellar dining option is Mud City Crab House , located just across the causeway in Manahawkin, where guests can order oysters on the half shell and enjoy a cold drink around the outdoor fire pits. Both restaurants are closed during winter.

As for where to lay your head at night, try booking a stay at Hotel LBI , a luxury hotel boasting 102 well-appointed rooms, fine dining establishments, and a rooftop terrace where you can watch the sunset with a glass of champagne in hand.

2. Boston: 4-Hour Drive

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

If you're into history, look no further than a long weekend away in Boston.

Spend time walking along the famed Freedom Trail to trace the city's history as it weaves through several of Boston's most charming neighborhoods. Stop into places like Old North Church , the Old State House (site of the Boston Massacre), and the Paul Revere House to get a taste of what life here was like around the time of our nation's birth. (Pro tip: try to plan your trip around The Head Of The Charles Regatta , which draws thousands of spectators each year to watch elite rowers compete in the three-day race.)

As a major city, Boston has no shortage of excellent hotel options, including the Omni Parker House , the oldest continuously operating hotel in the country. Its own history runs deep and counts both Malcolm X and Ho Chi Minh as ex-employees, and writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow as former guests.

For an even more upscale stay, book a night at the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston . Centrally located in Back Bay, it's a prime spot to post up for a weekend, and its concierge team can curate experiences to help you make the most of your time. It also comes with all the amenities one would ever need, including complimentary Birria bikes, three restaurants, a spa, and a swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of the city. For New Yorkers who don't drive or don't want to drive, Amtrak's Acela service takes you from Manhattan to Boston in four hours.

3. Burlington, Vermont: 5.5-Hour Drive

With breweries dotted all around this small city, Burlington, Vermont is a beer lover's paradise. Make sure to sign up with City Brew Tours for a behind-the-scenes look at how some of the best beers coming out of the Queen City are made. True brew enthusiasts should try to plan their visit around the Vermont Brewers Festival , held every July.

Beyond beer, Burlington also boasts a lively waterfront scene. Head to Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain for a stroll or cycle along the eight-mile Burlington Greenway. Hop off your bike for a quick visit to ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , an interactive science museum dedicated to the health of the lake, or rent a boat from the Community Sailing Center to get on the water yourself.

For a luxurious getaway, stay at the Essex Resort & Spa . Nestled on 18 verdant acres just outside the city, this charming hotel has two swimming pools, a spa, and hands-on cooking classes taught by chefs from the resort’s farm-to-table restaurant.

4. The Adirondacks, New York: 4-to-5-Hour Drive

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

When the city becomes too much, it's time to head upstate — to the Adirondack Mountains, specifically.

A weekend in the Adirondacks typically means hiking, kayaking, cliff diving, and for the more adventurous, white water rafting (best experienced in the spring, when the Hudson River is at its most intense). Writer Lauren Breedlove described her outdoorsy experience in the Adirondacks for Travel + Leisure : "We couldn't get enough of the canoes, going on morning and evening expeditions, keeping an eye out for possible moose, and uncovering art in nature as we paddled through an area with heart-shaped lily pads."

For a unique stay, reserve a room at The Point , a former Rockefeller family retreat overlooking Saranac Lake. Be sure to book early, as the property has just 11 guest rooms. In 2017, it underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation led by architect Andrew Chary, who honored the hotel's past and restored its original brass and chrome fixtures and stone fireplaces. Yes, it's rustic, but that doesn't mean it isn't fancy. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, dinner at the hotel is a black-tie event, so make sure to pack your finest attire. Of course, if you can't get a room, there's always The Sagamore Resort , a luxurious Colonial Revival grande dame right on Lake George.

5. Providence, Rhode Island: 3.5-Hour Drive

Providence, Rhode Island, exudes all the charm you'd expect from a great New England city. It's a place where you'll still find cobblestone streets and narrow river walks alongside modern dining establishments, world-class theater, and museums to rival those found in any of its larger counterparts.

While in Providence, head to Waterplace Park . Channel your inner Venetian by booking a ride along the city's rivers with La Gondola , or plan your trip around WaterFire , an art installation that lights up the rivers with almost 100 braziers on several weekends throughout the summer and fall.

After catching a show, head to Oberlin , a modern seafood spot consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the U.S. Then spend the night at ultra-cool, 52-key The Dean, where rooms are outfitted with a mix of custom and vintage furniture and original artwork adorning the walls. Or, for a bit more history, stay at Graduate Providence , previously known as the Providence Biltmore. Each of the rooms and common spaces pays homage to the city's past with vintage furnishings and artifacts.

6. Mystic, Connecticut: 2.5-Hour Drive

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

As far as picture-perfect villages go, they don't get much better than Mystic, Connecticut. The adorable town is home to fewer than 5,000 permanent residents, making it a great place to go for a quaint getaway.

It may be small, but the town has no shortage of activities. If you're traveling as a family, there is the famous Mystic Aquarium , where you can spend an entire day roaming around and learning all about your favorite sea creatures. Want to see marine life in their natural habitat? Book a summer sail with Argia Mystic Cruises . The company's 81-foot schooner takes visitors around the seaport and the nearby islands. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics and beverages (including beer and wine, just no hard liquor).

Cap off a visit to Mystic by staying at Ocean House , located in nearby Watch Hill. The famed inn is 25 minutes away and provides guests with even more New England charm, thanks to its meticulous restoration, stunning ocean views, and world-class amenities.

7. Philadelphia: 2-Hour Drive

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The City of Brotherly Love beckons a day trip, weekend, or a getaway for as long as you need. Arrive by car or take an 80-minute Amtrak ride for a more relaxing journey.

There is so much to see and do in this vibrant city, including a few classics like snapping a picture in front of The Liberty Bell, touring Independence Hall, and running up the "Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art — doing your best Stallone face the entire way.

The city has a high-end culinary scene — chef Michael Solomonov's Zahav and Laser Wolf , both serving Israeli cuisine, are must-visits. But you also need to take part in a classic Philly tradition and order a cheesesteak. To get a taste of as many different versions as you can, head to Reading Terminal Market — one of the country's oldest public markets — where you can also pick up some local artisan goods.

After you've filled your belly, you'll need a good rest. Stay at The Logan, Curio Collection by Hilton , where you'll get a room with not only a plush bed but also modern decor and local artwork, as well as hotel amenities like a full-service spa, a steakhouse, and a rooftop terrace.

8. Washington, D.C.: 4-Hour Drive

Victoria Chamberlain/Travel + Leisure

The capital's endless activities fit all interests and travel palates. Visitors can lean into D.C.'s history by touring the famous monuments on the National Mall and delve into worlds of dinosaurs, art history, and the like in any of the 16 Smithsonian museums in the city. To experience the top attractions in a more unique way, you could always hop on a night tour by D.C. Trolley Tours and view them under the stars.

After you tick off the usual highlights, you should explore the places on Washingtonians' hot list: local art exhibits at Dupont Underground , jazz concerts in the National Gallery of Art sculpture garden, and the expansive farmers market in Columbia Heights , to name a few.

Once you're wiped out from sightseeing, check in to The St. Regis Washington, D.C. Located just two blocks from The White House, the hotel has hosted A-listers and dignitaries alike for nearly 100 years — and it's your turn to join them.

9. Newport, Rhode Island: 3-Hour Drive

Another popular Rhode Island weekend getaway, Newport has long been a haven for New Yorkers escaping the fast pace of the city in exchange for a slower way of life.

Here, you can explore the former homes of some truly rich and fabulous people on a self-guided tour of the iconic Newport Mansions . Follow that up with a stroll along the 3.5-mile Newport Cliff Walk , which provides some of the most breathtaking views along the entire Eastern Seaboard. You can get out on the water yourself by renting a sailboat and exploring Narragansett Bay.

Finally, live (briefly) like the Newport elite with a stay at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection , a hotel built in 1909 as the Newport County YMCA. With just 33 guest rooms, it's a place where you'll enjoy five-star service just as a Vanderbilt would.

10. Nantucket, Massachusetts: 7-Hour Drive and Ferry Ride

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If Nantucket, Massachusetts is on your "must-see" list for a short getaway, you might consider hopping on an 80-minute flight rather than spending seven hours driving and ferrying to the island. No matter how you arrive, you're guaranteed to have a relaxing time on this slice of pure Americana.

Nantucket is brimming with activities — renting a bike and going for a slow pedal around town, taking in the Instagram-worthy shingled homes, cruising through the harbor, or casting a line on an organized fishing trip — to help you slow down and appreciate the little things. The world's your oyster in Nantucket (and the local oysters are all yours, too).

While Nantucket still has its small-town vibe, it's blossoming into a global destination. "There was a real energy in the town, and there was also a surprising sense of openness and accessibility," reported Akash Kapur for T+L . "While entry was, in the latter half of the last century, largely restricted to certain classes and races, Nantucket was now teeming with a diverse population."

Cap off your very serene day with a stay at White Elephant . With its stunning lawn along the waterfront, you can both start and end your days with the soothing sounds of the crashing waves outside.

11. Portland, Maine: 5-Hour Drive

Portland, Maine is a place where everyone can find a slice of vacation bliss. From above-average antique and vintage shops to a craft beer scene that must be sipped and savored to ample outdoor space for roaming on a warm day, the city is suitable for group and solo trips alike.

Erinne Magee, a lifelong Mainer and former Portland resident, reported on the best things to do in Portland for T+L . Her list includes visiting the Portland Observatory for 360-degree views of the city, taking a ferry to Peaks Island, and leisurely exploring the cobblestone streets of the Old Port neighborhood.

Seafood lovers shouldn't pass up the lobster dinner at Eventide . The raw bar and restaurant is well known for scrumptious New England bites — including the classic lobster roll.

After dinner, settle in for the night at The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection , whose historic downtown building once housed the Portland Press Herald . The hotel honors its history with a nostalgic newspaper theme throughout. "If you have a thing for old typewriters or simply want to visit a building that celebrates art in all forms, stop into The Press Hotel for a beverage and board game," reported Magee. "You can also explore the lower level museum featuring Maine artists or type your own special something on the typewriter in the lobby."

If you don't mind driving a bit, White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection , located about 40 minutes outside the city in Kennebunkport, will grant you an unforgettable stay. The drive will allow you to further explore Maine's stunning landscapes, and the hotel itself is a true gem, home to an award-winning restaurant.

12. Hudson Valley, New York: 2.5-Hour Drive

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

For a weekend trip that feels like it's just a stone's throw away, head up north to the Hudson Valley for a retreat filled with fine dining and wine. The Culinary Institute of America calls the Hudson Valley home — while in the area, pay a visit (it's been called one of the most beautiful campuses in the country), and explore the greater culinary scene, from Michelin-rated restaurants to casual bakeries and cafés. Dinner by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges at The Inn at Pound Ridge is not to be missed.

For a drink, embark on the Dutchess Wine Trail , which leads to world-class vineyards and delicious tasting rooms. When you're ready to retire for the night, head over to The Maker , a hotel that radiates class and culture.

13. Farmington, Pennsylvania: 6-Hour Drive

Farmington, Pennsylvania, is perhaps the quirkiest little gem on this list of weekend getaway destinations. It's a place to get out in nature and dive deep into the fun-loving culture.

During your stay in Farmington, visit nearby Laurel Caverns , which contains the state's largest cave. While the cave itself is fascinating, it's made even more so by the colorful lights installed inside. For design admirers, there are not one but two Frank Lloyd Wright homes nearby, including the famous Fallingwater home, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which you can visit on a group or personal tour.

Then, drive over to the ever-popular Nemacolin for chateau accommodations and experiences from axe throwing to cosmic bowling to acupuncture.

14. Cape May, New Jersey: 2.5-Hour Drive

There are family-friendly getaway spots, and then there's Cape May. Located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, this stunning oceanfront community is at the top of just about every East Coast "best weekend getaway" list.

Rent a cruiser from Cape Island Bikes or take a trolley tour to see as much of the colorful town as possible, or go on an afternoon cruise to see Cape May from the water and maybe even spot a whale or two while you're out there. For dinner, reserve a table in advance at the Blue Pig Tavern , serving surf and turf classics with farm-fresh ingredients, and grab a couple of beers under string lights while listening to live music at Exit Zero Filling Station while you wait.

Dig a little deeper into the Americana vibe with an overnight at The Virginia Hotel & Cottages , a 24-room boutique hotel in a lovingly restored building constructed in 1879. It also has four cottages.

15. Bermuda: 2-Hour Flight

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

Plot twist: While Bermuda isn't exactly within driving distance, it's actually a shorter commute from NYC than many of the above destinations. A two-hour flight will land you in a subtropical paradise. In fact, travel journalist Alison Fox reported for T+L that Bermuda is cheaper and faster from NYC than the Hamptons: "The affordable direct flights — including the brand-new JetBlue one from LGA — and the easy-to-use bus system to help travelers get around definitely make Bermuda a compelling alternative to domestic travel this summer."

On the main island, bask in the sun, swim in the crystalline sea, drink rum swizzles at The Swizzle Inn , make your own scent at the Lili Bermuda Perfumery , visit natural wonders like The Blue Hole Park, and finish off the five-star visit with a stay at a five-star hotel. Rosewood Bermuda is set on a sprawling, private stretch of pink sand beach, the perfect spot to be marooned for a long weekend.

16. Lake Placid, New York: 5-Hour Drive

Tanya Nikolic/Travel + Leisure

Lake Placid is another farther-flung location, but it’s well worth the journey if you want to enjoy a year-round outdoor destination. In the spring, summer, and fall, visitors will be delighted to find a dazzling array of outdoor activities, from hiking through  High Falls Gorge , a 22-acre nature park boasting four waterfalls, to taking a dip in the 128-acre Mirror Lake . 

Of course, this place is also a winter paradise – famed for hosting the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Powder hounds can get their adrenaline rush on the slopes of  Whiteface Mountain , which offers 22 miles of terrain for skiing and snowboarding. 

Start at least one day with a hearty plate of eggs, a breakfast sandwich, or the decadent French toast fondue from  The Breakfast Club, Etc . And for later-in-the-day fare, look no further than  Smoke Signals , a BBQ joint with finger-licking brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.

Check into the  The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn , a delightful boutique inn housed in a building from the 1700s that still boasts plenty of historical charm. 

17. The Poconos, Pennsylvania: 2-Hour Drive 

Richard T. Nowitz/Getty Images

The Pocono Mountains are another delightful outdoorsy destination prime for getting out of the city. Come here for a little family fun like visiting  Camelback Mountain , a massive adventure park that will leave kids and kids at heart smiling from ear to ear. There’s also the  Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway , which will zip you through the stunning local scenery, and  miles upon miles of hiking  through old-growth forests in the Poconos trail system. 

Remember, The Poconos cover about 2,400 square miles, so plan your dining according to the area you want to visit. A couple of not-to-miss spots in the region include Wilkes-Barre's  Cork Bar and Restaurant , serving seafood with an Italian twist (think roasted red pepper gnocchi shrimp and shrimp and crab bolognese), along with  Native  in Honesdale, an upscale eatery focusing on dishes made from locally sourced produce. 

Lay your head at any number of area hotels. Among the best are  Cove Haven Resort , a kitschy, old-school, couples-only hotel famed for its heart-shaped tubs, and  Woodloch Resort , a family-friendly resort where all ages can have fun in the great outdoors. 

18. Washington, Connecticut: 2-Hour Drive 

Prisma by Dukas/Getty Images

Find rural bliss just two hours outside the city with a visit to Washington, Connecticut, where verdant landscapes are abundant but so too are the cultural attractions. Dive deep into the region at the  Institute For American Indian Studies , which traces the lives of Indigenous peoples back more than 10,000 years. Get your fill of fresh air at the  Hollister House Garden , a massive green space open in the spring and summer to showcase the local blooms, and get a taste of something locally brewed at  Hopkins Vineyard , a heritage farm that produces award-winning wines. 

Then, dig into more local favorites at The 202 Tavern , serving classic American food made by local purveyors, and  G.W. Tavern , whose menu features comforting classics like French onion soup and chicken wings. 

The area may not have a lot of accommodations, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for with pure quality. The elegant  Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection will leave you totally renewed thanks to its inviting and cozy guest rooms and its in-depth wellness programming, including traditional spa services and expert-led health coaching. 

19. North Fork, New York: 2-Hour Drive

MikeRega/Getty Images

Escape to the North Fork, New York whenever you need a Long Island getaway without all the pomp and circumstance. Just two hours from the city (traffic permitting), this is the spot to be for a beach day, a great glass of wine, and a little farm-style fun. You really can’t go wrong at any of its beaches, but great options include  Wildwood State Park , which also includes a 600-acre forest, and  Orient Beach State Park at the end of North Fork.

According to Hannah Walhout, a former senior editor at T+L, "This part of Long Island was always a sleepy place — worlds away from the big-money scene of the nearby Hamptons. But these days, more and more city dwellers are making the trek, drawn by the peninsula’s rolling coastline, rambling vineyards, and hyper-local gastronomy."

After basking in the sun, head to the waterfront  Kontokosta Winery to enjoy panoramic views of Long Island Sound with your vino. Don't leave without stopping by  8 Hands Farm  for farm store goodies to take back home. For more food,  The Halyard  has locally sourced produce and fresh-caught fish, and  Bruce & Son  is beloved for its all-day brunch. 

Round out your vacation with a stay at  Sound View Greenport , a design-forward hotel on 14 waterfront acres, or  The Lin Beach House , a chic guesthouse with clawfoot tubs in every guest room. 

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

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

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

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

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

13 Day Trips From Evansville

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

1 hour from Evansville

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

Check out my tips for visiting Holiday World here . 

2. Audubon State Park

10 minutes from Evansville

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

Plan your visit to Audubon State Park here . 

3. Ellis Park

9 minutes from Evansville

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

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

Plan your visit to Ellis Park here . 

4. Marengo Caves

1 hour 30 minutes from Evansville

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

Plan your visit to Marengo Caves here .

5. Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial

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

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

Plan your visit to Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial here .

6. Louisville Zoo

2 hours from Evansville

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

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

Plan your visit to the Louisville Zoo here . 

7. Louisville Mega Caverns

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

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

Plan your visit to Louisville Mega Caverns here . 

8. Holiday Drive-In Theatre

35 minutes from Evansville

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

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

Plan your visit to Holiday Drive-In here . 

9. New Harmony

30 minutes from Evansville

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

Plan your visit to New Harmony here . 

10. Wilstem Wildlife Park

1 hour 45 minutes from Evansville

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

Plan your visit to Wilstem Wildlife Park here . 

11. Big Splash Adventure Park

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

Check out a few tips for visiting Big Splash here . 

12. Shawnee National Forest

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

Plan your visit to Shawnee National Forest here . 

13. Indiana Caverns

1 hour 40 minutes from Evansville

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

Plan your trip to Indiana Caverns here . 

WantTo Drive Farther?

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

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

Our St. Louis Trip

Our Horse Cave Trip   

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

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This post has 4 comments.

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

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

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11 Easy Weekend Getaways From San Francisco

Get away from the city with one of these easy, drivable weekend getaways..

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The Tule Elk Preserve is one of many places to visit during a weekend in Inverness and Tomales Bay.

Photo by Jessie Beck

San Francisco is an amazing city in its own right , but one of the best parts of living here is that you can be at a world-class vineyard, on a beach, or up a mountain within a short drive. There are the North Bay’s oyster farms and vineyards, the (sometimes) snowy Sierras to the east, the quiet of Tomales Bay. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a change of scene, consider one of these 11 easy weekend getaways from the San Francisco Bay Area.

Healdsburg, California, is more than wine: Redwood forests and stretches of the Russian River to kayak are also accessible from this small town.

Photos by Jessie Beck

1. Healdsburg and Sonoma wine country

• Distance : 90 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for : a low-key wine and food getaway

It’s hard to see all of Sonoma wine county in a single weekend—it’s larger and more spread out than neighboring Napa Valley. Instead, make the northern town of Healdsburg, which is experiencing something of a revival, your home base for the weekend. In the past two years, a long list of exciting new hotels, restaurants, and tasting rooms have joined the area—giving the historic town a burst of new energy.

What to do in Healdsburg

Yes, of course, you could spend an entire day tasting wine (it is Sonoma County, after all), but you’ll also want to explore the area’s natural beauty. To do so, join a cycling tour at Russian River Adventures to explore the area on two wheels with a knowledgeable guide, or combine your ride with a kayak adventure on Getaway Adventures ’ pedal-paddle tour.

Healdsburg’s food scene is also a big reason to visit: It’s home to three- Michelin-starred restaurant SingleThread (and awardee of a Michelin Green Star ), and the team’s newly opened vegan café, bar, and restaurant, Little Saint. (Pro move: You can also try their dips while sampling pinot noirs at the beautifully designed, downtown tasting room for Marine Layer.) For a more casual lunch or dinner, grab a pizza on the rooftop at the Matheson , or settle down for cocktails and fried chicken at Lo+Behold . The town also has an excellent farmers’ market on Saturdays.

Where to stay in Healdsburg

For a truly luxurious retreat, book one of the tree houses at the Montage Healdsburg , a 258-acre property that officially opened its doors in 2020, making it the first major resort property in the Healdsburg area. Or head over to the Madrona, a historic property originally built in 1881 as a private residence that is now a beautiful, maximalist boutique hotel designed by Jay Jeffers. Prefer something within walking distance of Healdsburg’s square? Then check into eco-friendly Harmon Guest House, a peaceful yet centrally located hotel only a block away from dozens of fantastic restaurants, tasting rooms, and bars. Coming in the summer? Rest assured: All three options have swimming pools.

Read More: Your Perfect Weekend Getaway in Sonoma Wine Country

Fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and exploring small towns along the Mendocino Coast.

Photo by The Life in Pics/Shutterstock

2. Mendocino coast

• Distance: three hours north of San Francisco
• Best for: a remote drive along Highway 1

The Mendocino coast is no secret weekend getaway spot. While most visitors will focus on exploring the coastal town of Mendocino and its surrounds, there’s much to be discovered along the 90+ miles of Mendocino’s coastline. That said, if it’s your first time in the area, go ahead and base yourself in the small town of Mendocino—beaten path or not, its proximity to trails, beaches, restaurants, and small locally run shops make it a must on any California getaway list. Or explore a new stretch of the coast, like the small town of Elk and nearby Salt Point State Park to the south of Mendocino.

What to do on the Mendocino coast

You could easily fill your weekend exploring tide pools on the beach and hiking trails with dramatic ocean views, but part of the Mendocino coast’s charms are in the small towns near the highway. Save plenty of time for pit stops from Guala to Fort Bragg; shop the variety store Matson Mercantile in Elk; enjoy vegetarian fare and wine at the hip and colorful Fog Eater Cafe in Mendocino; or sample fresh local seafood at Wild Fish .

Where to stay on the Mendocino coast

For classic Mendocino coast, book a stay in the town of Mendocino. Right in the heart of downtown is JD House , a six-room bed-and-breakfast with ocean views and decor that lands somewhere between ship captain’s home and modern hygge. Or immerse yourself in nature at Mendocino Grove , where you can stay in safari tents complete with beds, rugs, and firepits. The new for summer 2023 sauna and espresso bar make it an extra dreamy glamping experience. For a more removed but no less beautiful home base, head 15 miles south to the small coastal town of Elk and reserve a room at the Harbor House Inn , a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant perched on a cliff above a private, pebbled beach.

Read More: Local Getaways: Escape to the Mendocino Coast

Turn off your phone and head to Wylder Hotel for a remote mountain getaway.

Courtesy of Wylder Hotel

3. Hope Valley

• Distance: four hours east of San Francisco
• Best for: a less-crowded escape to the Sierra Nevadas

A short drive south from Lake Tahoe , Hope Valley has all the beauty of a Sierra Nevada mountain getaway—minus the crowds. It’s an ideal weekend destination to retreat to the woods for a few days of digital detox amid alpine lakes and pine forests.

What to do in Hope Valley

Like much of the Sierras and Tahoe, Hope Valley is known as an outdoor destination. In warmer months, grab your hiking shoes or mountain bike to explore miles of trails in the nearby wilderness, like the range of trails around scenic Echo Lake or Snowshoe Thompson’s Cave, which is “a short 1.15-mile hike filled with lore,” says AFAR travel news editor Michelle Baran .

In the winter, opt for a snow-filled adventure snow-mobiling or snowshoeing on one of the trails at Hope Valley Sno-Park then warm up in the natural hot springs at nearby Grover Hot Springs State Park .

Where to stay in Hope Valley

Wylder Hotel , which has rustic but refurbished log cabins, yurts, and budget-friendly campsites, is an ideal homebase in Hope Valley.

Read More: Local Getaways: A Beautiful Mountain Escape in Northern California

Yoga among the redwoods is one of many activities at Canyon Ranch Woodside.

Courtesy of Canyon Ranch

4. Santa Cruz Mountains

• Distance: one hour south of San Francisco
• Best for: wine, hikes, and mountain bikes

Bay Area residents often come to the Santa Cruz Mountains for day trips and brief weekend adventures. But if you plan to stay longer, you won’t be bored—there’s enough winery hopping and hiking among the redwoods to fill an entire weekend.

What to do in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, road cycling, and rock climbing are the main draw for visitors to the Santa Cruz Mountains. After you’ve worked up an appetite on the trails, visit one of the area’s wineries, like award-winning, family-run Mindego Ridge , or the many ranches and farms—an afternoon picnic and visit with the goats at Harley Farms Goat Dairy is a local favorite—to relax and refuel.

Where to stay in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Book yourself into a luxurious tree house at Canyon Ranch’s Woodside Retreat , which includes a full schedule of activities, like hikes and yoga sessions, and three healthy, locally sourced meals each day.

Read More: Local Getaways: The Santa Cruz Mountains Offer a Much-Needed Escape to Nature

Glamp in a classic Airstream or safari tent at Autocamp Russian River.

Courtesy of Autocamp

5. Guerneville

• Distance: one hour, 45 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: summer fun and food by the Russian River

Although scenic year-round, Guerneville’s location alongside the Russian River makes it an especially popular weekend destination in the summer, when you can float, kayak, or canoe in the water. Off the river, this tiny town is also home to a surprising number of delicious places to eat—with even more restaurants, breweries, and wineries a short drive away.

What to do in Guerneville

In the summer months, pack a floatie and a cooler full of snacks to spend the day lazing around on the Russian River. Visitors can also rent a canoe from Burke’s Canoes . Afterwards, this Sonoma County town is an excellent homebase for food and wine lovers—biscuits at Big Bottom Market , winetasting at Hartford Family Winery , beers at Stumptown Brewery , and ice cream at Nimble & Finn’s are a few of the area’s tasty highlights.

Where to stay in Guerneville

For classic Guerneville, you can’t go wrong renting a house by the river or booking a romantic retreat at the adults-only Boon Hotel + Spa , an intimate, LGBTQ-friendly boutique hotel with a pool, spa, and breakfast delivered to your room each morning. Prefer to glamp? Head to Autocamp and stay in a tricked-out Airstream trailer for the weekend.

Or, consider one of the newer hotels to the area: including the luxurious, 21-room boutique hotel, Stravrand (opened in 2021) located on a former orchard, and Dawn Ranch (opened in 2022), a collection of stylish cabins nestled in the redwoods, complete with restaurant and spa. Read More:

• A Weekend Getaway Guide to Guerneville
• Where to Eat on the Russian River

The Lodge at Bodega Bay is set on a quiet, scenic stretch of California coast—and has no shortage of scenic views.

6. Bodega Bay

• Best for : escaping the summer heat, kayaking, and relaxing in a newly renovated lodge

If you’ve spent any time exploring Northern California, you’ve likely passed by Bodega—the Highway 1 goes through this small blip of a town, located between Tomales Bay and Jenner on the Sonoma coast. Although it’s close enough to San Francisco for a day trip, the newly renovated rooms at the Lodge at Bodega Bay are reason enough for locals, out-of-towners, and north-bound road-trippers to turn their visit into a full-fledged weekend getaway.

Pro tip: Although San Francisco residents rarely have any summer heat to escape from, folks elsewhere in the Bay Area should take note. Bodega can be as much 20 degrees cooler than inland areas, making it an ideal summer retreat for anyone who wants respite from high temps.

What to do in Bodega Bay

Although you might be tempted to spend the entire weekend with a book and a beverage while enjoying the coastal views (and we won’t judge you if do), the natural beauty of the area will likely convince you otherwise. If you’re so inclined, start your morning by kayaking along the coast ( Bodega Bay Surf is a friendly spot for rentals) or hike on the scenic Bodega Head Trail. The area also happens to be an excellent spot for bird-watching, especially along the Birdwalk Coastal Access Trail in Doran Regional Park . In the mood for a beach day? Grab your blanket and head to Doran Beach or Campbell Cove.

After a day of adventuring, refuel with calamari at the Tides , fish and chips at Fishetarian Fish Market , or a cocktail and crudo at Drakes Fireside Lounge .

Where to stay

Book a room at the sprawling Lodge at Bodega Bay , a few minutes south of town. Each of the spacious 83 rooms features comfortable beds, plush robes, and westward-facing balconies with unobstructed views of the marsh and ocean. The area can get chilly at night and the lodge offers plenty of ways to warm up: in-room fireplaces, hot tub, sauna, or with a cocktail at its on-site bar and restaurant.

Big Sur has something for varied adventures and budgets, from basic campsites to five-star luxury.

Photo by Pete Niesen/Shutterstock

• Distance: three hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: a classic California coastal getaway

With its dramatic coastlines, waterfalls plunging into the ocean, and expansive, rugged redwood forests, Big Sur is one of those quintessential California destinations—and also a fortunately easy weekend getaway destination from the Bay Area.

What to do in Big Sur

“Nature is one of the region’s biggest draws, but there’s plenty of exploration to do beyond the trees,” says AFAR senior editor Aislyn Greene. Places like Tassajara Zen Mountain Center , Hearst Castle , a California condor tour with Ventana Wildlife Society , and a tour of the Point Sur lighthouse , as well as shopping for local art at Hawthorne Gallery or Coast Big Sur are all excellent things to do while in Big Sur.

Where to stay in Big Sur

Accommodation in Big Sur ranges from basic campsites , like those at Pfeiffer State Park, to five-star luxury. Some of our favorite Big Sur hotels include the spectacular, all-inclusive Ventana Big Sur resort, which gives guests the option to choose between staying in one of its luxurious suites or getting in touch with nature in its safari-style tents, as well as the creative rooms at Post Ranch Inn —weekend retreat in a tree house , anyone?

Read More: Embrace the Slow Life—and Maybe a Few Trees—in Big Sur

Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) is less than three hours from San Francisco by car.

Courtesy of Carmel Valley Ranch

8. Carmel Valley

• Distance: two hours, 30 minutes from San Francisco
• Best for: a wine country escape to the south

Napa Valley and Sonoma County aren’t the only places to go for a weekend of winetasting and sunshine (though you’ll rarely see us turn down a trip there). Carmel Valley (not to be confused with nearby Carmel-by-the-Sea) to San Francisco’s south is an equally fantastic, but often overlooked, destination for wine and food adventures.

What to do in Carmel Valley

Plan your weekend around winetasting at the area’s vineyards, like western-style Cowgirl Winery or Joyce , which specializes in wine from sustainability-minded vineyards. Then, decompress with an afternoon of hot and cool outdoor pools and a massage at Refuge Spa or a stroll through the shops at Carmel Valley Village.

Where to stay in Carmel Valley

Relax with a room at family-friendly Carmel Valley Ranch . Or for a more Tuscan-esque experience, stay at Bernardus Lodge & Spa , a wine country escape with rooms that overlook its 28-acre vineyard.

Read More: Why Carmel Valley Is the Wine Country Escape You Need

This 15-mile stretch of watery inlet is home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as excellent natural vistas.

Photo by Jules Fairley/Shutterstock

9. Tomales Bay

• Distance: one hour, 30 minutes north of San Francisco
• Best for: oysters, cheese, and kayaking in the sea

If a weekend of eating fresh seafood, sampling locally made cheese, and kayaking in a tranquil bay sounds like your kind of getaway, then head to Tomales Bay. This area, just north of the Point Reyes National Seashore, refers to the 15-mile stretch of watery inlet separating Point Reyes Peninsula from mainland Marin County. It also happens to be home to many dairy and oyster farms, as well as scenic parks and natural vistas.

What to do in Tomales Bay

Start off your weekend in Tomales Bay with an outdoor activity or two, like watching elk in the Tule Elk Preserve , hiking to the Point Reyes Lighthouse, or kayaking in Tomales Bay. ( Blue Waters Kayaking in Marshall is a great place to rent from.)

After you’ve worked up an appetite, eat your way through the area’s specialties, oysters and cheese, with a stop at Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company just north of Point Reyes Station, oysters at Hog Island or Tony’s Seafood in Marshall, and a locavore dinner at Saltwater Oyster Depot in Inverness. Locals know: For oysters to go, no-frills Tomales Bay Oyster Co. is the best in the bay.

Where to stay in Tomales Bay

Point Reyes Station is where all the action is, but we prefer to cozy up in a bay-side Airbnb, like Enchanting Garden Getaway in the tranquil town of Inverness on the west side of Tomales Bay.

Take a leisurely walk along the Pacific Ocean while relaxing in Cambria.

Photo by Mada_Cris, Shutterstock.

10. Cambria

• Distance: four hours south of San Francisco
• Best for: whale watching, wine, and relaxing on the beach

Equidistant from San Francisco and Los Angeles, the coastal town of Cambria is further than most of the other weekend getaways on this list, but it offers a blissfully relaxing break for those who brave the extra miles. Known as where the pines meet the sea, this low-key town is full of opportunities to get outside and hike, explore tidepools, or hang out on the beach—then fill up on delicious seafood and wine while admiring views of the sunset.

What to do in Cambria

Lean into Cambria’s laid-back charm and while away your day with walks along Moonstone Beach or hike the bluffs at Fiscalini Ranch . Come sundown, enjoy a glass of wine and bite to eat at one of several locally owned eateries, like seaside Sea Chest Oyster Bar or Madeline’s , which sits along the just-lively-enough Main Street. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a drive to explore nearby sights like the tiny town of San Simeon and Big Sur to the north, Morro Bay State Park for hikes or beach hangs to the south, or Paso Robles wine country to the east.

Where to stay in Cambria

At the north end of Moonstone Beach, family-friendly Oceanpoint Ranch has comfortable rooms (many of which have wood-burning fireplaces), plenty of activities (shuffleboard, croquet, horseshoes), and an onsite restaurant that serves to-go breakfasts and hearty suppers. For a more woodsy experience, Cambria Pines Lodge is a cozy, forest retreat complete with a lounge perfect for enjoying a glass of local pinot by a warm fire.

Read more: Why Cambria Is Central California’s Most Relaxing Weekend Break

Instead of wine, taste brandy, at the new California Brandy House in Napa.

Courtsey of California Brandy House

11. Napa Valley

• Distance: one hour to 90 minutes northeast from San Francisco
• Best for: wine, of course, but also so much more

Napa Valley may feel like an obvious choice for a Bay Area getaway (it is undeniably easy), but that doesn’t mean your itinerary has to be predictable. With an exciting array of new restaurant and hotel openings in the past two years, as well as lesser-known tours, activities, and tastings (and we don’t just mean wine), it’s easy to go beyond the most well-known attractions. If you’re feeling especially adventurous, you could even turn your Napa getaway into a mini road trip from Napa Valley to Mendocino along the scenic Highway 128.

What to do in Napa Valley

Napa is about more than wine (though winetasting is certainly a top thing to do here). To see a different side, spend the day cycling its back roads with Napa Valley Bike Tours , hang out with a (very cute) crew of rescue animals at Oasis by Hoopes , or taste brandy at California Brandy House . Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head to Empress M , the vision of entrepreneur Margaret Wong that features gourmet Chinese dishes like shrimp dumplings, Sichuan calamari, and roast duck; Lucy Restaurant at Bardessono , a tranquil restaurant with seasonally inspired dishes like asparagus en cocotte; or North Block , whose menu by Momofuku alum chef Nick Tamburo revolves around a wood-fired oven and features such items as sourdough pizzas and cured trout with almond milk and trout roe.

Where to stay in Napa Valley

There’s no shortage of incredible hotels and resorts throughout Napa Valley, but there are several new and noteworthy places to consider checking in to. The George in downtown Napa is a nine-room inn in a historic, recently restored, 19th-century home where guests are treated to plush towels, comfortable beds, and fresh English muffins from nearby Model Bakery .

Further north in Calistoga, the iconic Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs has been transformed with its chic, fully renovated, midcentury modern–inspired rooms, an on-site eatery, House of Better , that serves Southwestern-style fare, a new outdoor spa, and several new room concepts, like a stand-alone one-bedroom bungalow.

Read more: Napa’s in Bloom: How to Plan the Perfect Spring Weekend

This article originally appeared online in 2020; it was most recently updated on June 22, 2023, to include current information.

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