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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

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

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

Stowe, Vermont

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

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

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

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

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

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

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

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

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

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

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

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

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

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

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

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

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

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

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

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

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

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

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

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

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

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

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

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

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

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

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

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

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

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

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

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

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

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

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

Read Reviews Congress Hall

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

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

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

By Mark Ellwood

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

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

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

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

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

From Los Angeles

Catalina Island

Catalina Island, California

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

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

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

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

Paso Robles

CNT Editors

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Paso Robles, California

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

San Diego, California

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

From Chicago

Southwest Michigan

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

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

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

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

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

Cave Point in Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

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

From Washington, D.C.

Crystal Grottoes in Boonsboro

Boonsboro, Maryland

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

Alexandria, Virginia

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

Bodie Island Light Station in Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

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

Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

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

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

Cassadaga, Florida

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

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

Dali Museum in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, Florida

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

Key West, Florida

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

The Everglades

The Everglades, Florida

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

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

From Dallas

Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Oklahoma

Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma

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

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

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg and wine country, Texas

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

Round Top, Texas

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

Palo Duro, Texas

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

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• 5 Austin, Texas
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America’s Best Long Weekend Getaways

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

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Asheville, North Carolina

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

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

Seattle, Washington

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

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

Miami Beach, Florida

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

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

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

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

Austin, Texas

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

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

Chicago, Illinois

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

Boulder, Colorado

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

New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

Savannah, Georgia

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

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

San Diego, California

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

Portland, Oregon

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

Palm Springs, California

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

RELATED: The Coolest Things to Do in Palm Springs

Shelter Island, New York

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

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

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15 Best Weekend Beach Getaways in the US

From the beautiful California coast to the sunny Florida Keys, these are the best weekend beach getaways in the U.S.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

We could all use a beach vacation every now and again, but taking a weeklong trip to a faraway coastal destination isn't always possible.

Enter: weekend beach getaways. When you're in need of some sand and surf, but short on time, a rejuvenating weekend trip is the perfect way to get your fix before heading back to work on Monday (or Tuesday, if you can squeeze in a three-day weekend). From the rocky shores of the Pacific Northwest to the boardwalks of the Jersey Shore and the relaxing beach resorts of the Florida Keys , there's a perfect beach getaway for every type of traveler.

We've rounded up 15 of the best weekend beach getaways from major cities around the U.S., so you can start planning your next escape.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Get out in nature and enjoy the stunning rocky beaches of Olympic National Park in Washington. A perfect weekend trip from Seattle or Portland, Olympic National Park is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors during their beach weekend getaway. Ruby Beach is known for its incredible rock formations, piles of driftwood, and active tide pools. Kalaloch Beach and Rialto Beach (known for the Hole in the Wall tide pools ) are other popular beaches in the park. There are several campsites, cabins, and lodges available for your stay so you never have to leave the area. If you do want a break from the beach, the park's nearby Hoh Rain Forest is a great place to hike — its lush, green foliage will be a stark contrast to the rocky shores just a few miles away.

The Hamptons, New York

If you're a New Yorker looking for a beach weekend getaway, the Hamptons is a natural choice. East Hampton, Southampton, and Montauk are among the most popular destinations, and they're all worth visiting, thanks to their beautiful hotels, great shopping, delicious food, and of course, pristine beaches. Gurney's Montauk is a luxury hotel offering 158 rooms, suites, and beachfront cottages with ocean views and a private beach. The Baker House 1650 in East Hampton is a charming choice, as is Baron's Cove in Sag Harbor.

Monterey County, California

Covering some of the most picturesque spots on the California coast, Monterey County is perfect for a beach getaway from San Francisco . Opt to stay in a charming waterfront town like Carmel or Monterey to enjoy great local dining and sandy beaches. Try the L'Auberge Carmel , a historic Relais & Châteaux property just blocks from the beach. This area is heaven for golfers, too, with several stunning courses located on the water.

Laguna Beach, California

Although there are several great beaches in Los Angeles , sometimes you just want to get away. An hour's drive from downtown L.A., Laguna Beach feels like a vacation from the city without having to go too far. Relax on the beach, see marine creatures in the tide pools, or enjoy water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, surfing, or skimboarding, which actually started in Laguna. Book a stay at the five-star Montage Laguna Beach or The Ranch at Laguna Beach for a luxurious weekend away.

Saugatuck, Michigan

About a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Chicago and less than three hours from Detroit, Saugatuck, Michigan , is an ideal destination for a Midwestern beach getaway. On this slice of Lake Michigan shoreline, you can lounge on the beach and soak up the sun or go for a refreshing swim (no need to worry about sharks here).

This area is known as "the art coast of Michigan," so be sure to check out the local galleries or the Saugatuck Center for the Arts for a dose of culture during your beach vacation. Plus, with outdoor activities like kayaking, horseback riding, sailing, and hiking, there's really something for everyone here. Try The Hotel Saugatuck , a charming boutique property in the Historic District, for your stay.

Assateague Island National Seashore, Maryland and Virginia

Escape Baltimore for a weekend and enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of Assateague Island National Seashore , located just a three-hour drive from the city. This 37 mile-long island is best known for the wild horses that roam its sandy shores, so get your camera ready for unique wildlife photography opportunities (while maintaining a safe distance from the animals, of course). Hiking, swimming, surfing, birding, and kayaking are among the many other activities visitors can enjoy in this park. Oceanfront campsites also make Assateague Island one of the most scenic places to camp in the U.S. , so bring a tent and your camping supplies to fully immerse yourself in the great outdoors for a weekend.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

The string of barrier islands that make up the Outer Banks in North Carolina are perfect when you need a heavy dose of sand and surf in a peaceful, quaint setting. Duck, North Carolina, is located just under five hours from Washington, D.C. by car, making it a great destination for a long weekend away from the nation's capital.

The Outer Banks are also home to some of the best beaches in North Carolina — Nags Head, Cape Lookout National Seashore, and Ocracoke are just a handful of the destinations worth visiting in this scenic region. The area is a prime camp spot and this is one of the best ways to experience the beach, but there are also rental options as well as hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn Outer Banks .

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Located an hour and a half to two hours from Boston by car (depending on where on the Cape you're going), Cape Cod is the quintessential Massachusetts beach weekend getaway. There are a number of quaint towns to choose from, including Hyannis, Provincetown, and Chatham. Of course, when it comes to lounging on the sand, you can't beat the Cape Cod National Seashore , which offers six swimming beaches. The Coast Guard Beach is a family-friendly option, while mile-long Nauset Light Beach offers great surfing. For luxury accommodations, head to the Chatham Bars Inn right on the beach.

Florida Keys, Florida

The three-and-a-half-hour drive from Miami to Key West is one of the most scenic journeys any traveler could ever take. With stunning views of the islands and ocean, plus plenty of places to stop for a slice of Key lime pie, this is truly the ultimate beach road trip , and it can be done in a weekend if you live in or around Miami.

Once you arrive in Key West, home to some of the prettiest beaches in Florida, you can enjoy the shore, visit the southernmost point in the continental United States, or check out the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory . Get a room at The Gates Hotel Key West for a bright, airy escape with a rum bar. Finish the day with a seafood dinner and sunset cruise, and you've got a perfect weekend.

Tybee Island, Georgia

Tybee Island is the closest beach destination to Atlanta , so it's the perfect weekend escape when you want a break from the city traffic. There are plenty of beautiful Georgia beaches to choose from, but Tybee is great because it has something for everyone. North Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the sand and surf, but Back River Beach is the place to go if you want to avoid the crowds. Plus, downtown Savannah is just a short drive away from Tybee Island, so you'll have tons of great restaurants, museums, shops, and bars within reach, as well as historic lodging options like the Mansion on Forsyth Park .

Galveston, Texas

Just an hour from Houston , this Gulf Coast destination is the place to go when you need a nearby beach vacation . Galveston has attractions the whole family will love, like Schlitterbahn Waterpark , Pleasure Pier , the Galveston Naval Museum , and more. There are several beaches to choose from, too, like the popular East Beach or the Galveston Island State Park . At the end of the day, you can enjoy the gulf-front views from your room at the Grand Galvez or take a ghost tour to learn about the area's history.

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

There are dozens of great South Carolina beaches to visit for a weekend getaway, but one of the best destinations in the Palmetto State is Hilton Head Island . Hilton Head is consistently ranked among the best islands in the United States , and once you visit its white-sand beaches, you'll see why. Approximately two hours from Charleston and less than four hours from Charlotte, North Carolina, Hilton Head is perfect for families. You'll be able to see the beach itself from your window at the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort , plus you'll have access to the links of one of the area's famous courses. With more than 33 championship golf courses, this is the ultimate place to go for a golf vacation .

Jersey Shore, New Jersey

From beautiful Cape May in the south to bustling Atlantic City and Ocean City, there are plenty of New Jersey beaches that are perfect for a weekend trip from New York City or Philadelphia. If you're looking for a quiet, family-friendly spot, consider Point Pleasant or Asbury Park , which have fun boardwalks and nice beaches. No matter where you go, it's sure to be a welcome reprieve from hectic city life. The James Bradley is a stylish, recent addition to the area and perfect for a weekend stay.

Amelia Island, Florida

Located near the Georgia border just north of Jacksonville, Amelia Island is a picturesque barrier island on Florida's Atlantic Coast perfect for an affordable beach vacation. It's home to golf courses and a charming downtown area, and with 13 miles of coastline, there's plenty of space to spread out on the beach. The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island is the place to stay for oceanfront luxury accommodations.

Kiawah Island, South Carolina

A peaceful South Carolina sea island located under an hour from Charleston , Kiawah is the place to go for a blissful weekend away. World-class golf, soft beaches, friendly hospitality, and five-star stays at The Sanctuary , a beachfront luxury hotel, make this island a great place to unwind for the weekend.

USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US

From snowcapped mountains to tropical beaches, from some of the world’s most iconic cities to some of its most incredible deserts, from the east coast to the west, one thing is incredibly certain: there is absolutely no shortage of awe-inspiring, utterly diverse, and incredibly beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Our home country boasts one of the most incredible national park systems on the planet, along with a huge variety of cities, small towns, and other gorgeous places that ensure that a lifetime would not be long enough to see all of the best travel destinations in the USA.

… But that won’t stop us from trying to enjoy as many of the most amazing vacations in the United States as we can.

We teamed up with several other travel bloggers to put together this giant USA bucket list, and definitely added a few new spots to our personal list of places to see in the US in the process!

From coast to coast, city to countryside, here are the best places to visit in the USA.

Table of Contents

Best Cities to Visit in the USA

National parks + other beautiful places for a us vacation, beaches + islands for your usa bucket list, other beautiful places in the usa to visit.

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.

New York, New York

From Disha of Disha Discovers

New York is one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the United States and even the world.

It truly is a city that everyone should visit at least once in their lives even if it’s just for a quick weekend in NYC !

The tall buildings are mesmerizing and awe-inspiring, it’s home to some of the most exquisite museums and galleries in the world, and New York City is brimming with so much to explore and see.

Plus, NYC is a foodie’s heaven with cuisines from all over the world.

… And, these are only a few of the many reasons to visit this magnificent city.

Some bucket-list-worthy things to do in New York City are to watch a play on Broadway, see the Statue of Liberty, hang out in Time Square, walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, and take a stroll around Central Park.

A few museums to visit are the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met), the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, the Guggenheim, and the American Museum of Natural History.

Radio City Music Hall, Rockefeller Center, 5th Avenue, Empire State Building, and Chelsea Market are must-sees as well.

Whatever you decide to do in New York City , you’re in for a real treat!

This city will leave you feeling inspired and you’ll want to book another trip to come back!

Miami, Florida

From Veronika of Travel Geekery

Vibrant and colorful Miami is, without a doubt, one of the best places to visit in the US.

The downtown area merges into wonderfully diverse neighborhoods from Little Havana to Coral Gables.

However, most visitors to the vibrant yet laid-back city head to its beaches located on a long stretch of a barrier island.

South Beach especially is where the glamor’s at, topped by stylish Ocean Drive, which is lined with elegant Art Deco houses including Versace’s mansion, trendy restaurants, and nightclubs… the scene is pretty lively there.

The beach itself features uniquely colored watchtowers spread around nice light sand. The waves are mostly mild. Pelicans like it here too and often float on the water near people.

Watching a sunrise on the beach belongs to one of the best experiences one can have in the area.

Miami City and its beaches can easily be visited  even without a car .

The public transport network and the ample ride/bike-sharing services make it an easy destination for any type of traveler.

San Diego, California

From Maria of San Diego Explorer

San Diego is the perfect California beach city and a must on any USA bucket list.

Also known as America’s Finest City, San Diego has a lot to offer, whether you are looking for a beach getaway at one of the many beach resorts in San Diego , a fun time in the city, or a mix of both.

Here are some of the best things to do in San Diego!

In Downtown San Diego, there is something for everyone: from eating delicious Italian fare in Little Italy to visiting the Midway Museum to strolling through Seaport Village, and having a fun night out in the Gaslamp Quarter.

If you love the outdoors and animals, visit Balboa Park and the world-famous San Diego Zoo.  

And then, there are the beaches: San Diego has some of the best beaches in Southern California.

Some of the most popular ones are Mission Beach, Coronado, and the beaches in La Jolla.

You can relax on the sand, take surfing lessons, or ride your bike along the boardwalk for a fun day on the beach.  

San Diego has so much to offer and is simply a fun city, no matter what you are in the mood for. 

Austin, Texas

The Live Music Capital of the World and capital of the state of Texas is located in the heart of Texas Hill Country and offers a fantastic combination of excellent nightlife, plenty of outdoor activities and day trip opportunities, and truly phenomenal food.

Don’t leave without having at least one giant meal each worth of TexMex and barbecue!

While in Austin, be sure to visit trendy South Congress Avenue, watch the bats fly out from under the South Congress Bridge (if you’re visiting at the right time of year, that is), see a show, and go for a hike (or if it’s too hot, hit the lake!).

Want to get out of town?

Austin is within an easy day trip of natural swimming holes, Texas’ wine country, and adorable small towns.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Good food, good music, and good times: of all the best places to visit in the USA, NOLA definitely ranks toward the top of the list for places to go to simply have an amazing time.

There’s far more to New Orleans than Mardi Gras, Bourbon Street, and beignets, though.

With a dark and complex history heavily impacted by slavery and a constantly evolving modern culture, New Orleans deserves more than just partying during your visit–though there’s plenty of time for that, too.

While in New Orleans, be sure to listen to some jazz, learn a bit about the city’s history, visit the famous Jackson Square, head to the Garden District, check out the beautiful oak trees in City Park, and–this is very important–eat your heart out.

NOLA is indisputably home to some of the best food in the country–so good, in fact, that the food alone would be a good enough reason to add New Orleans to your USA bucket list.

For those interested in New Orleans’ spooky legends, a ghost tour through the French Quarter at night is also worth adding to your to-do list!

Washington, DC

From Jordan of The Solo Life

One of the best travel destinations in the United States is the nation’s capital, Washington, DC.

With everything from museums to monuments to the White House and Capitol Building, DC has something for everyone .

In addition, DC’s public transportation and numerous free attractions make it a surprising destination for the budget-friendly traveler.

Kid-friendly options include the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Art lovers will enjoy the National Gallery of Art or the Hirshhorn Museum for modern and contemporary art.

History buffs should check out the Library of Congress and the National Archives Museum.

Besides museums, the National Mall and Tidal Basin are must-visit locations to see the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial, among others.

The best times to visit DC include early summer before it gets too hot or in the fall once summer break is over.

Although extremely crowded due to the Cherry Blossoms, springtime is also a gorgeous time to visit.

No matter what time of year, Washington, DC is one of the best destinations to visit in the US.

San Francisco, California

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of bucket lists for the United States.

And, with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

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

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

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco!

Visiting the Muir Woods is an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia has been one of the coolest US cities to visit for centuries, and–like Boston–it features strong ties to the American Revolution.

This is where the Declaration of Independence and the Consitution were signed, touring Independence Hall and visiting the nearby Liberty Bell are among the best things to do in Philadelphia today as a result!

You can’t miss Philly’s food scene when visiting, either–from whoopie pies to Philly cheesesteaks, the city has a (literal) flavor all its own.

Start–but don’t finish–exploring Philadelphia’s food scene at the historic Reading Terminal Market.

Be sure to also make time to visit some of Philadelphia’s incredible museums during your visit, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution (we loved this one), and touring the dark but fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also home to another essential stop in this iconic East Coast City: the Rocky Steps.

And, if you’re willing to work up a sweat, definitely consider running up them yourself during your classic American vacation in Philadelphia!

Chicago, Illinois

From Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

Chicago is the third-largest city in the US, and also one of the most ethnically diverse.

Its skyline reflecting off the waters of Lake Michigan is a sight to behold.

No matter what your interests are, whether it’s music, shopping, culture, art, or dining, you could spend months exploring all that Chicago has to offer.

On a shorter USA vacation, though, you can still see quite a few of the best sights in Chicago!

The city’s top museums include the Adler Planetarium, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Science and Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Don’t forget to check out the many outdoor sculptures and other public works of art around the Loop, either.

A walk along the Magnificent Mile will take you past upscale department stores and through Millennium Park, home of the famous sculpture known as The Bean.

A visit to Bronzeville, also known as “the Black Metropolis”, is a must to learn about the city’s rich African-American history.

Architecture buffs will be interested to know that this is where Frank Lloyd Wright established the Prairie School architectural style. You can find some of his earliest buildings here in Chicago.

You’ll work up an appetite walking the streets of this massive city. This is a good thing, because the restaurant scene here is amazing!

You can find pretty much any cuisine you could imagine, from stylish Japanese to homestyle soul food, and there are even lots of vegetarian and  vegan restaurants in Chicago .

Houston, Texas

From Thanh of The Traveling Asian

Houston, Texas is one of the coolest places to visit in the United States, and while an unexpected vacation option, certainly one that will impress.

After all, it is the 4th largest city in the USA and is often ranked as the most diverse city in the country!

Because of this size, you can expect there to be all kinds of things for you to see and do here in this city.

One of the most iconic places you must visit in the city is Space Center Houston.

There you can learn about NASA and space travel as well as take a tour around the famous mission control center. If you love space, then this place is for you.

Houston is also home to the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo which is the biggest rodeo of its kind in the country.

There, you’ll be able to eat some delicious rodeo foods, pet some livestock, learn about animals, play at the amusement park, and even watch a concert by famous celebrities.

But aside from the attractions, Houston is known for its food. Since it is the most diverse city in the country, you can find just about everything available here in this city.

For instance, you can find Tex-Mex, Chinese, Ethiopian, Greek, and many other ethnic cuisines available all around the area.

So if you love food and all things fun, then Houston is definitely the place for you.

Las Vegas, Nevada

From Kimberley of Two Travelling Toques

If you’re looking for a cool place to visit in the USA, you can’t get much cooler than Las Vegas .

This well-known city has been depicted in numerous movies such as The Hangover and Ocean’s Thirteen as party central.

And if that’s what you’re looking for, you’ll definitely find it in Vegas.

Long known as both the wedding capital for a quick place to get married, or the perfect spot to hold a bachelor or bachelorette party, either way, it’s the spot to bring your friends, let loose, and have fun!

Gambling has been a big draw to Las Vegas since the early 1930s, and there is no shortage of showy and extravagant casinos to choose from.

Nightlife also takes center stage here.

From world-class musicians to top-notch magical acts, to dependable artists like Wayne Newton who have had a residency here for years. 

During the day, you can grab a fancy drink and chill by the pool. Or hit up one of the pool parties and listen to the headlining DJ.

Either way, be sure to bring lots of money for the high-end shops, ever-flowing drinks, and dazzling casinos looking to draw you in. 

Savannah, Georgia

Without a doubt, the small but stunning city of Savannah, Georgia is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the USA.

Featuring absolutely stunning architecture, 22 of its original 24 town squares, endless oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and some of the best food in the country, spending a few days in Savannah is bound to be a delight.

While you’re there, be sure to meander down beautiful Jones Street, check out Forsyth Park, hear some of the city’s most enduring legends on a ghost tour, enjoy views from River Street, and take in some of Savannah’s complex history at its various house museums and houses of worship.

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to eat!

While there are dozens of incredible  restaurants in Savannah , favorites include The Olde Pink House and The Grey for special occasions, The Collins Quarter for their legendary lavender mocha latte, and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream.

Have enough time for a quick  day trip ?

Tybee Island –also known as “Savannah’s Beach”–is less than a 30-minute drive away, and while you certainly won’t want to swim in the summer, strolling along the sand and climbing the lighthouse are a treat.

Los Angeles, California

From Trijit of Budget Travel Buff

Looking for the coolest place to visit in the United States?

Visit Los Angeles; a unique combination of the entertainment industry, gorgeous beaches, great food, and vibrant nightlife.

It is certainly not the cheapest place in California , but for the right travelers, LA is definitely worth the price tag.

Los Angeles is a large city full of tourist attractions that won’t let you stay idle.

If you are a beach lover, LA won’t disappoint you with its stunning beaches that include Malibu, Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, Hermosa Beach, and so on.

There are several fantastic museums in LA. LACMA is the most popular one for its diverse art collections and special exhibits.

Some other renowned museums are the Grammy Museum, Natural History Museum, and Museum of Broken Relationships.

While visiting LA, you will notice entertainment at every corner of the city. You can see a concert or enjoy a ride at the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park.

If you rent a car in Los Angeles, go for a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway that carves through the mountains of Malibu.

Los Angeles has some of the best restaurants in the US.

Once you are done with LA sightseeing, have lunch at any of these food spots – Diakokuya for ramen, Langer’s for a pastrami sandwich, Guisados for tacos, or pizza at Mozza.

Seattle, Washington

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the best USA travel destinations.

When visiting Seattle, be sure to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods?

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

Hoping to spend some time outside?

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

Charleston, South Carolina

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south.

Fantastic Lowcountry food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, and lots of history to uncover are wonderful to appreciate in both Charleston and Savannah –but Charleston absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

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

If you’d like to do some shopping while in Charleston, King Street is the place to go.

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

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach and/or Sullivan’s Island!

Orlando, Florida

As the theme park capital of the world, Orlando is one of the most popular places to visit in the USA for both domestic and international visitors, mostly on behalf of one iconic mouse.

As home to Walt Disney World , Orlando is a must-see USA bucket list item for many families across the world, and with four amazing Disney parks packed with rides, experiences, and intense amounts of nostalgia, it’s no wonder why.

Disney isn’t the only theme park game in town, though!

Universal Studios Orlando, home to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, is also a fantastic theme park to visit, and big roller coaster fans may even want to take a day trip to Tampa Bay to experience Busch Gardens.

Though the parks are a big draw for people visiting Orlando with kids and kids at heart alike, theme parks aren’t the only places to visit in and around Orlando.

The Kennedy Space Center, plenty of beaches, and even cool swimming holes like Wekiva Springs are within day-trip distance of Orlando.

Portland, Oregon

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

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

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

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

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

Nashville, Tennessee

From Apryl of Southern Traveling Gal

No doubt about it, there’s something about Nashville, that casts a long-lasting spell on travelers.

For travelers visiting Nashville, it’s not unheard of to plan a return trip as soon as the current one is over!

Only in “The Music City” is it possible to catch the latest exhibit at the Frist Art Museum, see a replica of the Parthenon and enjoy live music at venues along the Honky Tonk Highway.

For first-timers, touring country music icons like the Ryman Auditorium and the Country Music Hall of Fame is a must-do.

Don’t overlook artist-specific museums such as the Johnny Cash Museum and Glen Campbell Museum that provides a closer look at these music giants, either.

Much of Nashville’s allure lies within its distinctive neighborhoods, like the Gulch, filled with shops and restaurants.

It isn’t unusual to spot a long line or two here, typically featuring either people waiting in line to take a photo with the “What Lifts You” mural or getting into Biscuit Love.

Save some room for some barbecue from Peg Leg Porker!

12thSouth offers locally-owned boutiques, stores, and eateries. Also found here is Draper James, the flagship store of Reese Witherspoon’s clothing line.

Be sure to take home some cookies from Christie’s Cookie Company and snap a photo with the “I Believe in Nashville” mural.

Across the Cumberland River is the eclectic East Nashville. Don’t miss out on the mini doughnuts at Donut Distillery.

Depending on time, consider visiting Cheekwood Estates and Gardens, a 55-acre botanical garden, as part of your Nashville getaway.

Of course, no trip to Nashville is complete without hot chicken from Prince’s Hot Chicken or biscuits from Loveless Cafe, located near the Natchez Trace Parkway.

Boston, Massachusetts

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Boston is such a cool city to visit in the USA, rich in history, architecture, and food.

Along the waterfront, you can walk the 43-mile-long Harbor Walk.

But there is so much more to add to see during your trip to Boston, like the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path taking you to 16 significant places in American history.

It is well marked and technically be walked in as little as 90 minutes, though you can download the app and visit each place which will take at least a whole day to complete.

Boston is home to the oldest public park in the United States, Boston Common, which is situated next to Boston Public Garden.

You can wander the parks and enjoy a ride in the Boston Public Garden’s historic paddleboats.

Nearby, you’ll find the Boston Public Library at Copley Square, which is an incredibly beautiful Renaissance Revival structure from 1895 that you should visit.

You’ll also find the beautiful neighborhood of Beacon Hill nearby, as well as the trendy neighborhood of Back Bay.

For the best views of the city during your Boston itinerary , visit the Skywalk Observatory.

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

From Melissa of Parenthood and Passports

Yellowstone National Park is the oldest national park in the United States and one of the best places to visit in the entire country.

Known for its geothermal activity, more than half of the earth’s geysers are located in the national park which straddles the borders of Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana. 

Old Faithful is one of the most popular things to see in Yellowstone National Park .

The active and predictable geyser erupts approximately 20 times each day.

Visitors to the park gather around to watch the geyser blast hot water and steam into the sky.

Although quite impressive, Old Faithful is just one of many must-see geothermal features found in the park.

One of the largest hot springs in the world, the Grand Prismatic Spring, is another popular attraction in Yellowstone.

Visitors can get an up-close view of the spring or take a short hike for a stunning overview of Grand Prismatic’s vibrant colors.  

Beyond all of its geothermal features, Yellowstone National Park also boasts beautiful waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, rivers, and more than 200 species of animals.

Bison, deer, moose, wolves, and even bears live in the park.

Because of all the wildlife in Yellowstone, visitors are strongly encouraged to use caution when hiking or camping and to carry bear spray to protect themselves in the event of an encounter.

Sawtooth Mountains, Idaho

From Allison of She Dreams of Alpine

Idaho is often overlooked when it comes to cool places to visit in the US, but the tiny town of Stanley serves as the gateway to an abundance of outdoor adventures in the stunning Sawtooth Mountain range and along the swift Salmon River.

Although it has a population of less than 100, Stanley is easily accessible in a 3-hour drive from the main airport in Boise or about a 1-hour drive if you’re coming from Sun Valley.

The best way to explore the Sawtooth Mountains is on one of the many hiking trails.

The hike to Alice Lake is a perfect introduction to the area, and you can either do a 12-mile day hike or backpack the longer Alice/Toxaway Loop over the course of a few days.

Whichever option you choose, you’ll discover gorgeous views of Alice Lake framed by the “Dragon’s Back” peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains, including Idaho’s own “El Capitan.”

For fun on the water, you can go fishing along the Salmon River or swim in Redfish Lake.

When you need some rejuvenation after your adventures, you can reward yourself with great food and drinks at the Stanley Supper Club and take a dip in the hot springs at the Mountain Village Resort.

Once you head home, you’ll surely find yourself raving to your friends about this hidden gem of a mountain town – unless you want to keep the Sawtooth Mountains and Stanley a secret for yourself!

Oregon Coast

From Kay of The Awkward Traveller

The Oregon Coast is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the USA, but for those who love moody, dramatic scenery, it is the best place to be.

Although the actual coast isn’t very long (338 or so miles, about a 7.5-hour drive without stopping), it makes for a great weekend or longer trip with added stops.

Starting at the north end, about 2 hours outside of Portland, the city of Astoria will serve as your jumping-off point with picturesque bridges and locations from The Goonies.

Heading south, take a pitstop at the cheese capital of the state  –  Tillamook , Oregon.

Visit the Tillamook Cheese Factory and gorge yourself on all things dairy before continuing on to stunning Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area.

The highlight of the coast will be Yachats, Oregon, with incredible farm-to-table restaurants that are dedicated to sourcing local sustainable fish, meat, and produce providers.

On the southern end of the coast, you can find sand dunes in Florence, and natural rock arches among the cliffs in Brookings.

If your tolerance for rain is low, summer will be the best season to visit weather-wise, while winter and spring will have smaller crowds and lower prices.

Acadia National Park, Maine

From Ale of Sea Salt & Fog

Acadia National Park is one of the most beautiful national parks in the eastern United States, perfectly showcasing the beauty of the Maine coast.

Acadia has miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as easy coastal access for kayaking and sailing. 

When visiting, plan to spend at least  2 days in Acadia National Park  so you can make the most of your time there.

One of the best things to do includes watching the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, where you’ll get stunning views of the islands that dot the coast.

Drive Park Loop Road to enjoy some of the park’s most famous attractions, including Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, and Jordan Pond (don’t forget to stop for popovers at Jordan Pond House!).

For hiking, choose a paved Carriage Road to take you down to one of the many picturesque ponds and lakes in the park.

Plan your visit in the fall to see the famous New England fall foliage in full display, or in the summer to enjoy long, sunny days perfect for hiking.

If you love the outdoors, add Acadia to your list of places to visit in the US – you won’t be disappointed.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

From Monica of This Rare Earth

Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California is an incredible destination in the United States. 

This desert ecosystem became a national park as recently as 1994, and it’s easy to see why it was chosen!

The Mojave Desert and the Colorado Desert meet in the middle of Joshua Tree National Park, which means that you will see two very different landscapes depending on which half of the park you are in.  

The Mojave Desert is home to the famous Joshua Tree – a tall and spindly yucca – as well as giant boulders popular with climbers and hikers. 

The majority of the park’s hiking trails are found in this region.

However,  while planning your Joshua Tree National Park itinerary , it would be a mistake to skip the Colorado Desert at the southern end of the park.  

The Colorado Desert is hotter, lower in elevation, and flatter, but holds gorgeous landscapes full of cacti and, at the right time of year, wildflowers. 

 In the summer months, avoid strenuous hikes or leave early in the morning as temperatures can reach over 100 degrees.

Joshua Tree National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing and well outside the bright light of the city.  

Joshua Tree is roughly 2.5 hours outside of Los Angeles.

From Chris of Called to Wander

Alaska is known as the Last Frontier, evoking adventure for those looking to travel to a truly unique place.

Because the state is massive, at over twice the size of Texas, you could spend as much or as little time exploring it as you have.

Many people take cruises through the Inside Passage and make stops in places like Ketchikan, Haines, and Seward.

Others fly into the main cities of Anchorage or Fairbanks and then rent vehicles and head off on their own adventures.

By far the best way to make the most of an Alaska vacation (though it requires a steep time commitment) is by driving to Alaska and spending as much time as you’d like wandering from one place to the next.

You can drive to the Arctic Ocean along the Dalton Highway, view North America’s largest mountain (Mt. Denali), or observe wildlife like caribou, grizzly bear, and moose.

Or, catch a flight out to a handful of the most remote national parks, or drive up to and hike out to massive, ancient glaciers.

If you enjoy fishing, go after halibut in Homer or salmon in the famous Russian River.

Regardless of what kind of travel you prefer, Alaska offers adventure for everyone and should definitely be on your travel bucket list!

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

From Dan of Cabin Critic

The Great Smoky Mountain National Park is the most popular national park in the US, hosting over 10 million annual visitors, and it definitely belongs on your bucket list for the USA.

Located in Tennessee and North Carolina, the park has diverse animal life, plants, and natural attractions. There are tons to do and see. 

If you are feeling adventurous you can go zoom down zip lines, go white water rafting, or go mountain biking. 

For a more relaxed trip, you can go on hikes, see beautiful waterfalls, or simply go for a scenic drive.

Cades Cove, for example, is a broad valley surrounded by mountains you can drive through that is well known for providing the best opportunities for seeing wildlife like white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, and more.

When you aren’t enjoying the outdoors there are numerous mountain towns to enjoy like Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, or Asheville .

Stay in  one of the cabins with a view  of the mountainsides and check out the local attractions like Dollywood in Pigeon Forge or the Biltmore Estate in Asheville . 

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

From Michele of Adventures Abound

Just a 2-hour drive from both Portland and Seattle rest the foothills of the towering volcano Mount Rainier.

Known to the Indigenous since time immemorial, Mount Tahoma is covered in unimaginable beauty and can be enjoyed year-round. 

Visit in the summertime for hiking through meadows strewn with wildflowers of every color, and in the fall for ripening berries and a better chance to catch the trails and lakes free of ice and snowmelt on a variety of great day hikes just outside of Seattle .

To extend your visit overnight, pitch a tent in an established campground, stay in a rustic lodge in the national park, or backpack along the Wonderland trail that circumvents the park.

Not feeling up to a lengthy hike?

Just driving through Mount Rainier National Park will afford endless views of waterfalls, glaciers, lakes, and even the chance to spot wildlife. 

For those thrill-seekers looking for a more challenging adventure, apply for a permit to climb more than 8,000 feet to the summit, but be aware this is only for experienced mountaineers.

Mount Rainier National Park can also be enjoyed in the winter when the park sees an average of 55 feet of snowfall or more.

Head to the Crystal Mountain gondola to catch a great view of the peak while skiing and snowboarding down the slopes, or pick one of many great locations to snowshoe and backcountry ski along the mountain.

Whatever the choice for season and activity, Mount Rainier National Park is sure to be full of memories and adventure in one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States.

Arches National Park, Utah

Home to over 2,000 naturally-occurring sandstone arches, Arches National Park in Utah is one of the most uniquely beautiful places in the USA.

Whether you’re hiking to the incredible Delicate Arch (so iconic that it’s featured on Utah’s license plates), wandering through the Devil’s Garden, or taking one of the shorter hikes to visit some of the most impressive arches in the park, there’s no shortage of things to do.

Even one day in Arches National Park is well worth your time, but more would certainly be better.

Arches National Park is also home to internationally-recognized dark skies and some of the best stargazing in the United States–in order to see the best of the park, be sure to visit at least once after dark!

And, while Arches National Park is easily one of the best places to vacation in the US in its own right, the nearby town of Moab also makes an excellent launching pad to visit Canyonlands National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park.

Olympic National Park, Washington

From Sophie and Adam of We Dream of Travel

Not only does Olympic National Park cover nearly a million acres, but it is also the most biodiverse of all the US national parks.

It has it all, from glaciated mountains to breathtaking coastlines, crashing waterfalls, ancient rainforests, enchanting hot springs, and plentiful wildlife.

With such a treasure trove of natural landscapes, Olympic National Park is easily one of the best places to visit in the US.

Mountain lovers should budget plenty of time to hike the trails of Hurricane Ridge.

Here you will discover stunning views above the clouds, as well as an abundance of wildlife.

A great way to explore the park is on foot, particularly as much of the park is roadless. There are numerous multi-day hikes to choose from and it’s popular with backpackers.

The 17.4 miles Hoh River Trail is one of the most impressive, taking you through a flourishing rainforest to the base of Mount Olympus.

For coastal visitors, Second Beach is one of the best Olympic Park photography  locations and a perfect spot for sunset. 

However, with 73 miles of wild coastline, there’s plenty to explore!

There are endless options for the waterfall, forest, and nature lovers too.

In Sol Duc forest you can watch crystal water plunge into the lush greenery.

Or, you can choose to explore the vibrant green mosses of the Hoh Rainforest.  

No matter which part of Olympic National Park you visit, you will not be disappointed.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Stretching over a mile deep, the Grand Canyon in northwest Arizona is one of the largest–and most impressive–canyons on the planet, and one of the most popular places to visit in the USA!

Come to Grand Canyon National Park to admire views from the rim, hike into the canyon , watch the sunrise and sunset, and perhaps even hike all the way down to the Colorado River.

If you do want to hike to the river, though, be warned: doing so is a 2-day commitment!

Anyone taking a southwest road trip in the USA should consider adding a visit to the majestic Grand Canyon to their list: it’s truly a sight that you’ll never forget.

Death Valley National Park, California

From Michelle of The Wandering Queen

One of the best places to visit in California is Death Valley National Park .

This park is filled with bright white salt flats, mountains splashed with pastel colors, and eerie rocks that move on their own.

This park is such a strange yet unique environment which makes it perfect for avid photographers.

One of the best things to do is to watch the sunrise at Zabriskie Point. The views are glorious as the sun slowly sets on the unique colorful mountains.

Afterward, make sure to hike the Golden Canyon, Gower Gulch, and Badlands Loop Hike. The trailhead is right next to Zabriskie Point.

Another popular activity is visiting Badwater Basin. The basin stands at 282 feet below sea level and is filled with white salt.

This is a great spot to take pictures of the salt in contrast with the tall, dark mountains in the distance.

Nearby the salt flats, you can visit the devil’s golf course where spikey salt formations cover the ground.

The next outstanding area to visit is the Artists Drive. The mountain is sprinkled with pastel colors like yellow, pink, purple, and green.

It truly is a spectacular thing to see!

Rocky Mountain National Park

From Jyoti of Story At Every Corner

Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most gorgeous parks in the US.

It’s also easily reachable from Denver, Colorado, which has many flights from across the country, making it fairly simple to access and one of the most popular places to vacation in America!

The best place to stay is in Estes Park , a quaint little tourist town in the mountains.

There are many small towns all around the park and many choices for all price points. 

The easiest way to visit RMNP park is by car.

You can then enjoy the park by making stops at each vista point and taking hikes from there.

Most stops have short and long hikes; easy and challenging hikes.

There is a hike for everyone, but there is also spectacular scenery right at the vista points, even without a hike.

Keep in mind that the popularity of Rocky Mountain National Park means that certain places, like Bear Lake Road, must be accessed via reservation.

The most popular road that goes across the park is the scenic Trail Ridge Road.

If you don’t have time to visit anything else, I recommend driving Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park to the town of Grand Lake.

Other major attractions include Sprague Lake and Bear Lake, to the south of the trail ridge road.

They offer absolutely stunning views and many wildlife viewing opportunities along with the drives. 

There is so much to do around Denver that RMNP can be part of a week-long itinerary visiting Colorado  or a trip just for RMNP. 

Set in the Sierra Nevada Mountains along the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is easily one of the most beautiful places in the US.

With crystal-clear water and plenty of activities in and out of the water, from hiking to SUP to swimming, there is no shortage of ways to appreciate the otherworldly beauty of Lake Tahoe .

To enjoy the views of the lake itself, summer is definitely the best time to visit–but winter has its charms, too, including plenty of skiing and incredible views of the lake framed by bright white snow.

From romantic couples’ retreats to fun getaways to Lake Tahoe with kids , all kinds of travelers will find something to love about Lake Tahoe.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Located on Havasupai tribal lands not far from the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is simultaneously one of the most famous waterfalls in the USA and one of the hardest to access.

In order to visit Havasu Falls, you’ll need to secure an extremely competitive permit (they sell out months in advance) and complete a 10-mile hike in each direction.

You’ll also need to spend the night nearby, as it’s one of the permit requirements set out by the Havasupai people.

If you manage to swing both the logistics and the hike, though, the rewards are pretty spectacular.

Zion National Park, Utah

Home to some of what are quite possibly the best hikes in the country, Utah’s most-visited national park is absolutely one of the best places to see in the US.

Test your fear of heights (if you have one, that is) by hiking the incredible Angel’s Landing, and be rewarded with stunning views of Zion Canyon.

Venture deep into the Virgin River by hiking The Narrows , a hike that takes place literally in the river!

Seek out incredible views along Observation Point, the Canyon Overlook Trail , and the Watchman Trail.

Try to score a permit to hike the Subway, but if you can’t get one, don’t worry: there’s more to see in Zion National Park than you can cover in one vacation.

No matter how you spend your days at Zion National Park, there’s no doubt that you’ll be experiencing something worthy of a bucket list!

Texas Bluebonnet Trail

California’s magnificent wildflowers may be a bit better known outside of the country, but Texas’ phenomenal spread of bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes that decorate the countryside each spring absolutely belong on anyone’s USA bucket list.

Whether you choose to visit the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail near Ennis (not far from Dallas) or head to the Texas Hill Country , there is no shortage of places to admire bluebonnets in Texas.

Though the blooming times can of course vary a bit depending on the weather, late March and early April are generally the best times to experience the beauty of Texas’ bluebonnets.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

From Emily of Em’s on the Road

If you’re looking for unforgettable outdoor experiences without the price tag of popular destinations out west, then the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the place for you.

One reason the Upper Peninsula (or U.P.) is really unique is that it is an ideal place for adventure seekers all year long. 

In the warmer months, the U.P is a great beach destination in the Midwest thanks to its location with beachfront on Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, and Lake Huron.

In the fall, pack your hiking boots and tackle rocky hiking trails for colorful views you’d never expect in the Midwest.

With an unobstructed panoramic view of Lake Superior, the hike up  Sugar Loaf mountain in Marquette, Michigan  is one of the most popular in the region.

Thanks to some serious snowfall, there’s so much to do in the U.P. in the winter months.

There are cross-country ski trails, snowmobiling trails, downhill skiing, dog sledding, ice climbing, and more. 

Redwood National Forest

From Dhara of Roadtripping California

Most visitors to the Golden State put   California’s national parks at the top of their itineraries because they are just so spectacular.

Redwood National and State Parks, in the northern part of the state, offer you the chance to stroll among giant redwoods, some of the tallest and oldest trees on the planet.

A group of five parks, Redwood National and State Parks feature not just the towering redwoods, but also epic coastal views, beautiful prairies filled with wildflowers in season, and the chance to see birds and wildlife.

Enjoy some of the scenic drives in the parks: Howland Hill Drive, Coastal Drive, and the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway are all great choices.

Do some of the trails through the redwood groves to see the giant trees up close: the Big Tree Wayside Walk, the Stout Memorial Grove Trail, and Lady Bird Johnson Grove are all super scenic and relatively easy walks.

Gaze up at the trees, and enjoy the ferns and rhododendrons in the understory.

You can also go biking in the parks, and camp if you plan to stay for a few days.

Redwood National and State Parks are about 5.5 hours north of San Francisco by road, and you can visit all year, although you will have the best weather in the summer.

Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

From Jase of Roaming Vegans

A little-known gem in the north of Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands.

This island archipelago on Lake Superior looks like it belongs in Southeast Asia – not on the shoreline of a humble midwestern town.

However, its tucked-away location makes it all the more special for visitors.

While the lake freezes in winter, the islands come to life in summer with many activities like  sea kayaking , island hopping, and cliff jumping.

There is even an island home to one of the largest concentrations of bears in the Midwest–yes, bears!

The largest and most populated island is Madeline Island which makes for a great base to explore the nearby smaller islands.

Maui, Hawaii

From Jessica of I’m Jess Traveling

Famed for her elegant beaches,  world-class resorts , and next-level surf, Maui attracts visitors from all over the world. 

It’s no surprise that Maui was named Condé Nast Traveler’s best island in the U.S. for 23 consecutive years. 

There are countless things to see and do in Maui depending on your travel style. 

For outdoor enthusiasts, hike through a majestic bamboo forest ending at a 400-foot waterfall.  

Ocean lovers can test their skills at surfing or set sail on a sunset cruise.

There won’t be a shortage of exotic beaches to explore, no matter what your travel style is.

The adventure seekers have their pick among plunging the popular Road to Hana or watching the sunrise above the clouds at 10,000 feet inside Haleakala National Park. 

Whatever your draw, sunsets, beaches, luxury, or adventure, Maui has it all. 

Not only is Maui one of the best USA travel destinations but it’s one of the best places to take a tropical vacation in the world. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

For adorable beach towns, sandy beaches, and some of the best seafood you’ve ever eaten in your life, head to the classic New England summer getaway of Cape Cod.

While you’re in Cape Cod (or as New Englanders say, “on the Cape”), hit one of the beautiful trails, visit a lighthouse or two, stick your toes in the sand, and eat lots and lots of lobster.

While Cape Cod’s swimming season is much shorter than popular beach destinations elsewhere in the country, it’s still well worth visiting.

Just be sure to plan ahead, because rental houses for summer on the Cape tend to book up before winter even wraps up!

Nā Pali Coast, Kauai

Towering cliffs covered in dense jungle, dramatic waterfalls, small valleys, and views of the Pacific Ocean far below: welcome to the Nā Pali   Coast.

Without a doubt, the Nā Pali   Coast on Kauai is one of the most beautiful travel destinations in the US.

Stretching 17 miles along the northwest portion of Kauai, the Nā Pali   Coast is best admired from air–usually via a helicopter tour–or from a boat on the sea.

Whichever option you choose, there’s no doubt that what is arguably the most beautiful corner of The Garden Island is bound to impress.

Florida Keys

For a taste of the Caribbean without leaving the USA, head to the Florida Keys!

Not only is the overseas drive from Miami to Key West one of the most scenic road trips in the USA, but the Keys themselves are also fantastic, home to beautiful beaches, colorful architecture, great food, and plenty of things to do.

While you’re there, be sure to hit the water via snorkeling or scuba diving, go for a swim, enjoy the famous Duval Street, tour the Ernest Hemingway House, and eat several slices of the region’s famous Key Lime pie!

Big Island, Hawaii

From Patricia of Travel Fam Life

The biggest of the Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii (also known as the Big Island) is a cool place to visit.

That starts with the weather: you’ll experience a lot of sunshine temperatures ranging from 85°- 90° in the summer months and 79°- 83 in the winter months, making it the perfect place to escape year-round. 

Hawaii is going to impress anyone that decides to visit.

The food is phenomenal and the choices are vast with plenty of history and cultural backgrounds.

The array of activities ranges from land to sea, from memorable ancient sites to beautiful folklore traditions. 

Some of the best things to do when taking a vacation to the Big Island include:

Zip Lining over waterfalls is an activity that can be very exhilarating if you are an adrenaline junkie.

This can also be enjoyed as a family activity, some companies allow kids as young as 5 years old to participate.

Volcano National Park is a breathtaking experience with its majestic hikes, thrilling ride down to the Chain of Craters, and some spectacular scenery and photo opportunities.

Papakolea or Green Sand Beach is one of 4 green sand beaches in the world.

The hike to this remote beach is very worthwhile, and the backdrop of the Hawaiian blue ocean that keeps you company makes the whole experience priceless.

And the list goes on, you can check it out here .

Outer Banks, North Carolina

With sandy beaches framed by sand dunes and rolling waves, the Outer Banks of North Carolina may not boast the bright water of the Florida Keys or the tropical beauty of Hawaii, but they are stunning all the same, and absolutely one of the best places to visit in the USA.

Come for the small beach towns, the history of the Wright Brothers taking their first flight here, the southern food, the historic forts, and the beautiful lighthouses. 

Come for the sunken pirate ships, for the wild horses that live on some of the islands, for the great places to swim, and for the great day trip opportunities.

If you’re looking for a classic, all-American vacation, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina that make up the magnificent Outer Banks.

Oahu, Hawaii

From Sydney of A World in Reach

While visitors sometimes think of Oahu as just being a stopping point before visiting Hawaii’s other islands, the island has so much to offer than overcrowded beaches and tourist attractions.

Oahu is home to delicious food, beautiful scenery, and captivating history and is one of the best travel destinations in the United States.

Most visitors to Oahu will base themselves in Honolulu, Hawaii’s capital and largest city.

Guidebooks often recommend spending little time in Honolulu; however, this city is a melting pot of culture and is home to some of the best food on the island.

Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian meal or some of the best Asian food in the United States, you can easily find a delicious meal in Honolulu.

Start your visit to Oahu off by exploring Honolulu, seeing the sights, and eating all of the delicious food.

Spend a day at Waikiki Beach – it might be touristy, but it’s still worth a visit.

Plan a visit to Pearl Harbor, where you can learn more about one of the darkest days in US History, and spend a morning hiking Diamond Head, one of the best hikes on Oahu .

Spend the rest of your time on the island exploring the North Shore, visiting the famous Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, and indulging in shave ice from Matsumoto.

Visit the beaches along the North Shore, where you might see some surfers catching waves, and hike through a botanical garden to a beautiful waterfall at Waimea Valley.

Napa Valley, California

Northern California’s wine country is definitely among the most beautiful–and for wine lovers, tastiest, places to visit in the USA.

With beautiful small towns, great boutiques, and rolling hills filled with vineyards that almost feel like being in Tuscany, both Napa Valley and Sonoma County have plenty to offer those looking for a laid-back, wine-filled getaway.

Door County, Wisconsin

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Wisconsin often isn’t the first US state that people think of visiting, but from beautiful beaches to quirky attractions like House on the Rock , it has plenty to offer.

One of the most beautiful USA landmarks, Door Country, Wisconsin welcomes you on board with 300 miles of stretched shoreline and an awestruck sunset over the water, you could not leave without a witness. 

It allows your soul to breathe and relax. Wisconsin lets you explore aesthetic art galleries, and thousands of miles of stretched orchards, cherish the local brews and wines, paddle along the beautiful lakes, and devour the cheery pies.

Moreover, Green Bay, the capital of the region, is an underrated city that eventually captivates its visitors.

Though it’s a small city, the vibrant culture offers amazing  things to do in Green Bay .

Green Bay entertains visitors with prominent wineries. They produce their wines right up there which adds up to be a vital part of their culture. The landscape and heritage inspire the artists.

Walleye fishermen have the best water. It’s clean and portrays immense beauty. The botanical gardens and zoological parks play their role in charming travelers. 

Green Bay is an enchanting place that charms visitors with its intriguing features. 

Route 66 isn’t technically just one place, but as one of the most iconic travel destinations in the United States, I couldn’t bear to leave it off this USA bucket list!

Stretching from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, Route 66 is America’s best-known road trip and the perfect place to find not-quite-forgotten slices of Americana, from quirky roadside attractions like Cadillac Ranch and the Catoosa Whale to beloved diners and 50s-era-inspired motels.

Route 66 passes through nine states in total (Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, and California), and is a fantastic way to experience some of the best of what traveling in the US has to offer, all in one large trip.

Big cities, small towns, incredibly diverse landscapes, and beloved national parks are all featured heavily on Route 66.

Though it’s not technically on the route, even the Grand Canyon is accessible as an incredible side journey when road-tripping Route 66.

Whether you want to find a quirky campsite in Oklahoma or go hiking in Arizona, there’s no doubt that Route 66 is a classic US travel destination.

Big Sur, California

From Lauren of Ready, Set, PTO

Big Sur is one of the most beautiful places in the US and should definitely be on your bucket list.

Cruising along the winding Pacific Coast Highway with sweeping views of the Pacific is a magical experience.

This rugged area is located in Central California, about 5 hours north of Los Angeles.

If you aren’t able to find available lodging within Big Sur, check out nearby towns of Carmel and Monterey for more options, or try car camping with an epic view!

There are plenty of amazing  things to do in Big Sur .

I definitely recommend checking out the iconic Bixby Bridge (as seen in HBO’s Big Little Lies), admiring McWay Falls, hiking in Andrew Molera State Park, and Limekiln State Park, having a drink with a view at Nepenthe and watching the sunset at Pfeiffer Beach!

There’s not much cell service in Big Sur, so be prepared for an off-the-grid weekend of relaxation and gorgeous views.

Page, Arizona

The small town of Page, Arizona may seem like no more than a small town worthy of a brief stop on a road trip at first blush–but this small, unassuming town is home to some of the most incredible sights in the entire southwest, and it definitely belongs on your USA bucket list!

Page is where you can find the famous Antelope Canyon, as well as Horseshoe Bend , the Instagram darling of the Colorado River (for very good reason).

Just outside of Page, you can also find the remarkable Glen Canyon Dam, one of the largest dams in the US, as well as Lake Powell–but to see the best of Lake Powell, you’ll actually need to cross into Utah!

That’s not hard to do, though: Page is located right next to the Arizona/Utah border.

With such an outsized list of fun attractions, there’s no doubt that Page is one of the coolest places to vacation in the USA.

About Kate Storm

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

3 thoughts on “USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US”

Great info. I know its great because I have been to most of the beaches you mention!

Thank you – will also look at your Italian small towns to see which ones we should visit and maybe retire to.

Thank you so much, Laura!

Retiring to Italy–sounds like quite the dream! 🙂

Absolutely amazing article, just loved it.

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USA Weekend Trips: 26 Perfect Destinations for a Weekend Getaway (2024)

A World in Reach contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a commission at no cost to you! Read my full disclosure here .

Planning a quick weekend getaway but struggling to decide where to go? Keep reading for the best USA Weekend Trips to take this year!

Whether you’re a college student with classes during the weekdays or working a full-time job with limited vacation time, taking a 2 or 3-day weekend getaway is a great way to scratch your travel itch!

I love taking weekend trips to both new destinations and old favorites.

Why hang out at home watching Netflix all weekend when I could be exploring a new place, trying new foods, and knocking things off my bucket list?

Weekend trips in the USA are also perfect for when you can’t travel internationally.

Sometimes, visiting a different state can feel like you’re visiting a completely different country.

Plus, for me, the excitement of visiting a new place in the United States is just as fun as going abroad!

Are you wanting to take a USA weekend trip soon but struggling to decide where to go? Look no further than this post!

I’ve compiled a list of the best weekend trips in the United States – some that are favorite spots of mine and others that are on my bucket list.

There’s a nice mix of spots on this list, including city breaks, small towns, national parks, and hidden gems.

Whether you want a jam-packed weekend full of sightseeing or a relaxing weekend on a lake or in the mountains, you’ll find a destination here that’s perfect for you!

Table of Contents

Map of the Best US Weekend Trips

Best usa weekend trips, 1. usa weekend trips: savannah, georgia.

One of my absolute favorite destinations for a quick weekend getaway in the United States is beautiful Savannah, Georgia .

There’s so much to do in Savannah to see and do on a weekend trip.

The city is home to the largest Historic District in the country.

Here, you’ll find beautiful mansions and historic homes, churches, shops, restaurants, and 22 historic squares.

In the southern part of the Historic District you’ll find Forsyth Park, the oldest and largest park in the city. This is the perfect place to relax, have a picnic, and people watch.

Don’t miss the beautiful Forsyth Fountain in the north end of the park – this fountain is a Savannah icon and one of the most photographed spots in the city.

One of the best parts about the Historic District? You can legally explore with an alcoholic beverage in hand, so grab a to-go drink from one of the spots on River Street ( Wet Willie’s is my favorite) before heading down to explore the Historic District.

Savannah is often said to be the most haunted city in the United States – because of that, there are tons of different Savannah ghost tours.

I highly recommend this Savannah dark history and ghost encounter walking tour .

Ride around in style to Savannah’s spookiest spots on a hearse tour, or opt for an adults-only haunted bar crawl .

You can also spend a few hours exploring the hauntingly beautiful Bonaventure Cemetery in the eastern part of Savannah. This guided cemetery walk is perfect for learning about the cemetery’s history while taking in its haunting beauty.

Savannah is a great city for foodies – don’t miss the chance to try some hearty Southern cuisine. Check out a Savannah food tour or hit up some of the city’s best restaurants.

The Olde Pink House is one of the best restaurants in town, but it is a bit pricey. It’s the perfect spot for a special occasion!

After dinner, get in line for some of the best ice cream in the USA at Leopold’s . Don’t let the long lines scare you off – the wait will be worth it (and the lines move pretty quickly).

Where to Stay in Savannah

The Historic District is the best area to stay in Savannah. The district is very walkable, so you won’t need a car unless you want to venture further afield to Wormsloe Historic Site or Tybee Island .

Hotels in the Historic District are a bit more expensive than hotels in other areas of town, like around the airport or Midtown Savannah. But, the money you’d save in hotel costs will be spent on Ubers to get downtown – just spend a little more on your hotel so that you can walk everywhere.

For an affordable place to stay in the Historic District, check out The Thunderbird Inn or the Holiday Inn Historic District .

I also really like the Hyatt Regency , which is perfectly located right off of River Street.

You can also find Savannah vacation rentals on VRBO – these are perfect for traveling with a group of friends!

Savannah Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Savannah 📍 Click here for the best tours and things to do in Savannah

BEST WEEKEND TRIPS IN THE USA

2. weekend trip to louisville, kentucky.

Outside of visiting for the Kentucky Derby or the Bourbon Trail, Louisville is a city that isn’t on the radar of many tourists.

But, Louisville is definitely a city worth adding to your USA weekend trips bucket list.

Kentucky’s largest city, influenced by both Midwest and Southern culture, is an up-and-coming destination that’s perfect for a quick weekend getaway.

There are so many things to do in Louisville to keep you occupied on a weekend trip.

You can explore downtown, visiting museums like the Louisville Slugger Museum or the free art museum in the 21c Museum Hotel .

You can also walk the Big Four Bridge over to southern Indiana for great views of the Louisville skyline.

Make sure to hang out in NuLu, visiting the shops and restaurants in the city’s hippest neighborhood (don’t miss the delicious Italian food at bar Vetti or ice cream from Louisville Cream ). Try some of the neighborhood’s best bites and learn about its past on a NuLu Food and History Walking Tour .

You can also visit the Kentucky Derby Museum and take a tour of the famed Churchill Downs (and check out a race if there’s one going on during your visit).

Kentucky is known for its Bourbon, and Louisville is a great starting spot for the Kentucky Bourbon Trail .

Visit some of the distilleries located in Louisville, like Angel’s Envy or Michter’s, or take a day trip south to Bardstown – the Bourbon Capital of the World.

Louisville is a great city for foodies. Some of my favorite restaurants in town include Mussel & Bourbon Bar , Hammerheads , The Irish Rover , and Seviche .

The Highlands is home to Louisville’s best nightlife and is where most locals go (avoid the bars at Fourth Street Live in downtown – they’re all tourist traps).

Louisville is within a day’s drive of over half of the US population, making it an easy destination to drive to for the weekend.

You can also fly into Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, which is served by most major airlines as well as budget airlines like Allegiant Air and Spirit.

If you’re not driving into town, you’ll definitely want to rent a car – the best places to visit in Louisville are pretty spread out and the city’s bus system is not the most convenient for getting around.

Where to Stay in Louisville

Most of Louisville’s hotels are located Downtown, near the airport, and in the east end of the city.

My pick for where to stay in Louisville? The AC Hotel Louisville Downtown is located in the middle of NuLu, putting you close to some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

The rest of the city is just a quick drive or Uber ride away. It’s also affordable, with rates around $100 per night.

You can find more Louisville hotels on Booking.com , or check for Louisville vacation rentals on VRBO .

Louisville Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Louisville 📍 Click here for the best tours and things to do in Louisville

BEST UNITED STATES WEEKEND TRIPS

3. washington, dc.

One of the best USA weekend trip destinations is none other than the nation’s capital city: Washington, DC.

The city’s location on the eastern seaboard makes for an easy train or car ride from many US cities. It’s also served by three airports – Reagan International (DCA), Dulles (IAD), and Baltimore (BWI) – if you’re flying in from further afield.

The very best part of visiting Washington, DC? Many of the city’s top things to see and do are completely free! You can easily spend a cheap weekend in DC, only spending money on your hotel and food.

As the US capital city, DC is home to many important governmental sites, monuments, and museums. Of course, you can’t visit DC without saying hi to the President at the White House and seeing the US Capitol Building.

Pay your respects to past presidents, notable figures, and veterans at the various monuments memorials in DC.

Visiting the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial, the World War II Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, among the many others, will be a highlight of your trip.

Most of the memorials are located around the National Mall, but wear your walking shoes because a lot of them are pretty spaced out. Don’t miss seeing the memorials at night as well, when they’re illuminated.

Washington, DC is home to some of the best museums in the country. The most famous are the various Smithsonian Institutions , like the American History Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Air and Space Museum.

All of the Smithsonian Museums are free to enter. Currently, you do need a reserved ticket to visit the Air and Space Museum due to ongoing reservations. Tickets are free and can be reserved online.

Where to Stay in Washington, DC

When planning your DC weekend trip, you’ll want to stay somewhere within walking distance of the city’s main attractions to maximize your time exploring.

Penn Quarter is a great neighborhood to look for a hotel. I loved my stay at the Embassy Suites near the Convention Center – the large rooms are perfect for traveling with family or friends. The free breakfast and happy hour drinks and snacks are a bonus!

For a cheaper option, the citizenM Washington DC Capitol Hotel is a great choice.

Washington, DC Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Washington DC 📍 Click here for the best tours and things to do in Washington DC

4. New York City

Explored by Kelly Duhigg from Girl with the Passport

One of the best weekend getaways in the USA is New York, New York .

Start your weekend off by checking into one of the charming rooms at Kasa The Duffy . It’s a fantastic place to stay since the rooms are reasonably priced and well-located in the Hell’s Kitchen area.

Once you’ve settled in, walk over to Times Square and enjoy the magnetic, electric hue of this vibrant area.

Afterward, enjoy a Broadway Show (use the TodayTix app to get tickets at 50% off) or see an amazing, modern production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth at the McKittrich Hotel. It’s entitled Sleep No More and is unique, totally immersive theatrical experience that is not to be missed.

Finally, head back to your hotel and wake up refreshed, ready to explore midtown Manhattan.

Start your second day off with a fresh bagel from Ess-A-Bagel and then walk over to Grand Central Terminal. Take in the constellation-studded ceiling here before visiting the Morgan Public Library.

Take in the stunning exhibitions here before heading to the New York Public Library, Bryant Park, and eventually up Fifth Avenue.

Continue on Fifth Avenue, making stops at NYC bucket list spots like Rockefeller Center and St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

When you’re hungry, descend into the basement of the Plaza Hotel and enjoy some of the fantastic food here. Highlights include Lady M Confections and Takumi Taco .

Once you’ve had your fill, visit Central Park and enjoy this expansive green space. Be sure to take some photos near Bethesda Fountain before making your way uptown to the MET and the Guggenheim Museum – the second of which has “pay what you wish admission” on Saturdays between 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.

Then, end your weekend with a decadent Sunday brunch at Sarabeth’s , a restaurant that serves some of BEST lemon ricotta pancakes ever.

Where to Stay in New York City

The 414 Hotel is a unique boutique hotel in the heart of midtown Manhattan, perfectly located for a weekend stay.

You can find more NYC hotels on Booking.com , or check out Hotwire for some insane hotel deals – some up to 60% off regular price!

New York City Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in New York City 📍 Click here for the best tours and things to do in New York City

READ MORE: The Ultimate New York City Bucket List

BEST WEEKEND TRIPS IN US

5. las vegas, nevada – weekend trips in the usa.

Explored by Erin from Pina Travels

Las Vegas truly has something for everyone, making it one of the best USA weekend trips.

There are the classic things to do, like taking advantage of the city’s party scene, gambling in the casinos, eating at a buffet, and seeing an evening show. But there are plenty of unique and affordable things to do in Las Vegas , too.

Learn about the history of exotic dance in Las Vegas at the Burlesque Hall of Fame . This registered educational non-profit is a small museum that has an incredible collection of donated items.

If you’d like to have the classic Vegas experience, do some casino hopping! The themed casinos on the Strip are an attraction themselves, regardless of if you gamble. You can work your way from Circus Circus all the way south to The Venetian .

For a little bit of art and an incredible photo op, visit the Seven Magic Mountains . This is a public art installation that is on the outskirts of the city, and it’s free to visit.

Most visitors opt to stay on the famous Las Vegas Strip, but if you are willing to venture north to Fremont Street you’ll find that the hotels are more affordable.

Fremont Street has historical significance because it was Las Vegas’s first paved road. The street is home to the “Fremont Street Experience,” a pedestrian mall that has a canopy of lights and hosts street performances and free concerts.

The area is lively and fun, and has its own “hotel corridor,” with rates that are significantly lower compared to the hotels on the strip.

There are many great (and affordable!) restaurants nearby, like AmeriBrunch , a little brunch café that serves delicious, inexpensive breakfasts and coffee.

From Fremont Street, you can easily catch a bus, taxi, or Uber to take you south to the Vegas Strip.

Read More: The Ultimate 4-Day Las Vegas Itinerary

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

Fremont Street is home to many great hotels like The D Casino Hotel and the famous Golden Nugget . If you’d prefer to stay on the Strip, Bally’s Las Vegas is perfectly located in the middle of the Strip and is very affordable.

Las Vegas Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Las Vegas 📍 Click here for the best tours and things to do in Las Vegas

BEST LONG WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN THE USA

6. boston, massachusetts.

Explored by Nicole Rosania from The Abroad Blog

Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best cities in the USA for a weekend trip! It’s one of the most historical cities in the country, and its downtown is easily walkable.

A can’t-miss activity in Boston is to walk the Freedom Trail. The Freedom Trail runs 2.5 miles throughout downtown Boston, covering 16 Revolutionary War-era sites. You can even take a guided tour of the Freedom Trail to learn even more about the history surrounding the sites.

Begin your journey at the Boston Common Visitor’s Center and wrap up near the North End, Boston’s Italian neighborhood. The North End is a wonderful place to grab dinner. Packed with authentic Italian restaurants, you really can’t go wrong here, but top picks include Trattoria Il Panino and Carmelina’s . Be sure to swing up to Mike’s Pastry afterwards for a cannoli.

While in Boston, be sure to explore Faneuil Hall and the Boston Harbor. Here you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants, along with Boston’s New England Aquarium – the perfect activity for a rainy day.

Head to the Seaport, Boston’s newest neighborhood, for some of the best restaurants and bars in the city. This is where you’ll also find some of Boston’s premier rooftops, including the Envoy Lookout Bar and Deck12 at YOTEL Boston . The Seaport is also a great place to stay in Boston.

Looking for more ideas about how to spend a weekend in Boston ? Consider catching a Red Sox game at Fenway Park! Fenway is the oldest stadium in the US and has lots of fun traditions for fans to enjoy. If you’re not able to catch a game, you can also take a guided tour of the iconic ballpark .

Where to Stay in Boston

The Seaport is an up-and-coming neighborhood and a great area to stay when visiting Boston. Aloft Boston Seaport District and YOTEL Boston are both affordable and great for a weekend stay.

There are also a couple of awesome hostels in Boston that are perfect for budget travelers! HI Boston is one of the best in town.

You can also check sites like VRBO for Boston vacation rentals that are perfect for groups of friends!

Boston Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Boston 📍 Click here for the best tours and things to do in Boston

USA WEEKEND TRIPS

7. austin, texas.

Explored by Nikki from She Saves She Travels

If you’re looking for a fantastic weekend getaway in the USA, consider Austin, Texas!

Filled with a ton of outdoor activities, excellent restaurants, and great nightlife. Austin is perfect for a couples weekend, bachelor/bachelorette party, girls’ getaway, or even a solo adventure!

The eclectic art scene in Austin is perfect for going mural hunting! You’ll find street art all over downtown and SoCo (South Congress Avenue), so grab your camera and go after some murals. The most popular murals are ‘Greetings from Austin’, ‘I love you so much’, and “You’re My Butter Half”.

This Austin mural tour is a fun way to see all of the city’s best street art!

The food scene definitely makes this weekend in Austin one of the best getaways in the USA. Between the amazing assortment of food trucks to some of the best BBQ spots in Texas, you really cannot be beat.

From breakfast burritos to Jamaican food, vegan dishes, and gourmet grilled cheese, you’ll be sure to find something at an Austin food truck. And bonus – it’s an affordable option for your weekend, too.

Austin is the l ive music capital of the world , which means a whole lot of nightlife! You’ll find live music in most restaurants, and even at the airport! Try out the popular 6th Street or Rainey Street for music, dancing, and more nightlife.

Experience the city’s live music scene on an Austin Live Music Crawl

Before you leave Austin, be sure to hike up Mount Bonnell. A short 106 stone steps will take you to the highest point in Austin where you’ll see the Colorado River. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset or get a great view of the Austin skyline from afar.

Where to Stay in Austin

Hotels in Austin can be on the pricier side. Rates tend to vary quite a bit between dates – check out Booking.com to see all Austin hotels and find one with the right price for your stay.

Sometimes, vacation rentals can be more affordable than hotels – you can find Austin vacation rentals on VRBO .

Austin Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Austin 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Austin

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

Explored by Gabby from The Office Escape Artist

If you’re looking for the perfect long-weekend destination, look no further than New Orleans.

It doesn’t really matter what you’re into – awesome food, partying, culture, or history – because New Orleans offers all that and more .

In terms of food, New Orleans is one of the best cities in the USA. For low-key dining, enjoy a beignet and cafe au lait at Cafe du Monde or a muffuletta from Central Grocery . Other dishes that can be found all over the city – and are must-trys! – are po-boys, gumbo, and jambalaya.

Try all of NOLA’s best food on a New Orleans food tour !

For partying, New Orleans is unmatched. You can carry your drinks in the street and even get them to go, so be sure to get a mango-mango daiquiri or a Hurricane from one of the many corner shops. You don’t have to look hard for a party in NOLA… Bourbon Street is a party year-round.

For a unique nightlife experience, why not consider a New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl ? You’ll learn more about the city’s spooky side all while enjoying a few drinks.

Besides eating and drinking, New Orleans offers so much to do. Take a haunted tour of the French Quarter and hear real-life ghost and murder stories.

Visit an above-ground cemetery and learn why New Orleans uses tombs instead of traditional graves.

Check out a voodoo shop and get your fortune read, or buy a gris-gris bag for good luck.

Take a bicycle tour of the Lower Ninth Ward and learn about the destruction that Hurricane Katrina wreaked on this city.

There is so much to see and discover – and a long weekend will leave you wanting more.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

For a long weekend, you’ll definitely want to stay in the French Quarter or very close to it.

You may be able to find a cheap vacation rental outside the French Quarter but the neighborhood may be less than ideal and the Uber fees will end up costing you a fortune.

Most of your time in the Crescent City will be in the French Quarter so you may as well stay nearby, too. Nearby Frenchman Street is a great alternative – especially if you like art and jazz.

The Old No. 77 Hotel is a charming boutique hotel that’s perfect for a weekend trip. It’s just a few blocks from the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. There’s also the NOPSI Hotel – this hotel even has a rooftop pool!

New Orleans Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in New Orleans 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in New Orleans

9. Weekend Getaways in the USA: Nashville, Tennessee

Explored by Michelle from Moyer Memoirs

Nashville, Tennessee is a great weekend getaway destination that’s filled with activities and nightlife to make for an exciting vacation.

Nashville is called Music City due to its musical roots dating back centuries ago. However, even today it is a focal point in the music industry with over 200 recording studios as well as ‘listening rooms’ and cafes for locals and tourists alike, which function as performance outlets for up-and-coming artists.

Broadway is the main street in Nashville. It is populated on both sides of the street by Honky-Tonk bars providing a nice variety of free nightly entertainment in the multi-level establishments and rooftop bars. Consider a Nashville pub crawl to experience some of Broadway’s best bars and enjoy a drink or two at each one!

Pedal Bars cruise up and down Broadway with party-going guests singing, drinking, and pedaling to the music. You can also find Party Tractors – tractors pulling mobile dance floor complete with a DJ and drinks – cruising the street!

The combination of lively bars, live music, and fun things to do makes Nashville a popular destination for 21st birthday getaways and bachelorette parties.

Other must-see Music City venues include the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Music City Walk of Fame. The Grand Ole Opry , located northeast of downtown, is another must, as well as the Ryman Auditorium – the original home of the Opry that’s also known as “The Mother Church of Country Music.”

Outside of Broadway, many Nashville wineries also offer entertainment in their vineyards while you taste samples of their latest spirits.

Nashville also has a very prominent art scene. There are galleries, art festivals, and art nights to take part in. Street art is also very popular. Morning mural tours along 12 South and other areas around the city are a great way to start the day and get some exercise. There are always over a handful of murals within a short walking distance.

Don’t forget to spend an afternoon at one of the parks around Nashville. Centennial Park, Riverfront Park, Bicentennial Capitol Mall Park, and Sevier Park all have trails, beautiful scenery, picnic areas, and other sites to see.

There are a lot of great places to eat in Nashville. The honky-tonk bars on Broadway and listening rooms around the city offer good dining in addition to the entertainment. The must-try Nashville dishes include spicy chicken from Hattie B’s , biscuits from Biscuit Love , and pulled pork or BBQ from many places around Music City.

Where to Stay in Nashville

One of the best budget-friendly places to stay in Nashville is the AC Hotel Nashville Downtown , which is located just a couple blocks away from Broadway.

Another fun choice is the Graduate Nashville , a bright and fun (and very pink) hotel in Midtown. Make sure to check out White Limozeen , the hotel’s Dolly Parton-themed rooftop bar. Even if you’re not staying at this hotel, the bar is definitely worth a visit.

Nashville Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in New Orleans 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in New Orleans

10. Charleston, South Carolina

Explored by Anna from PaddlingSpace

Charleston is the perfect place for a USA weekend getaway as there is plenty to see and do in the city within a small radius. This means you won’t spend your weekend driving back and forth, but sightseeing instead.

If you only have a weekend to explore the city then you should spend most of your time downtown. Free Tours by Foot offers multiple wonderful free walking tours of the city, though you are expected to tip your guide.

These tours are a great way to see a lot of Charleston’s top sights, including the French Quarter, Rainbow Row, and the Pineapple Fountain.

If you’re interested in history, take the ferry over to Fort Sumter , where the first shots of the Civil War were fired.

You’ll also want to spend some time just getting lost in the neighborhoods downtown, walking along the Battery and in White Point Gardens. If you want to get outside of the city, take a kayak tour with Charleston Outdoor Adventures .

I recommend this eco kayaking tour of the marshes surrounding Charleston !

You’re sure to work up an appetite and Charleston is known for its delicious cuisine .

Brown Dog Deli is a popular spot for locals and very affordable. The Rarebit is also a cute throwback diner. Poogan’s Porch is definitely a can’t-miss for tasty Southern food. Make sure to visit Kaminsky’s if you have a sweet tooth. There are incredible places to eat in Charleston everywhere you look.

Want to try all of Charleston’s best eats? This Charleston food tour is perfect!

Where to Stay in Charleston

The NotSo Hostel is a great choice for solo travelers or those visiting Charleston on a budget. The hostel has dorms and private rooms and is within walking distance of several great restaurants.

Vacation rentals in Charleston are the perfect option if you’re traveling with a group of friends or if you want a beach house a bit out of the city.

Charleston Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Charleston 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Charleston

11. San Francisco, California Weekend Getaway

Explored by Travel Girl from Let’s Jet, Kids!

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, city life, or history on your weekend trip, San Francisco has it all!

For an outdoor adventure, head to Golden Gate Park to experience a beautiful Japanese Garden full of plants, art, sculptures, bridges, and water.

Then, take an Uber or Lyft over to the Sports Basement where you can rent an e-bike (or regular bike) and cycle over the Golden Gate Bridge!

This beautiful ride will land you at the famous view point of the bridge on the other side.

You can also take in fresh air as you walk along Fisherman’s Wharf. Stop for a fresh seafood lunch at one of San Francisco’s best restaurants before heading to Ghirardelli Square for a massive selection of chocolate-everything (including some of the best ice cream in the USA )!

Of course, you can’t miss out walking up the side of Lombard Street. This manicured walkway climbs up the side of the most crooked street in the world, containing 8 switchbacks that cars maneuver down.

For an outdoor cultural experience, head to Little Italy and dine at one of many authentic restaurants. You can also head to Chinatown and do a little shopping and taste some authentic treats like Dragon’s Breath.

Looking for something more urban and upscale? Go to Union Square where you can relax in the beautiful main plaza area, watch vendors and artists, or just hang out and enjoy the scene. You can, of course, shop around this upscale area (Tiffany’s, anyone?) of San Francisco as well.

History lovers can take the ferry out to Alcatraz ( reserve in advance ) and discover the famous prison of Al Capone, and the movie The Rock . You can also take a classic ride on the San Francisco cable cars, the only ones in the world that still operate manually! No matter what travel style you dig, there is something for everyone to enjoy in San Francisco , one of the best USA weekend trip destinations!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Located in San Francisco’s Nob Hill/Union Square neighborhood, White Swan Inn is a boutique hotel with a unique design and complimentary breakfast served daily.

San Francisco Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in San Francisco 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in San Francisco

12. Mendocino, California

Explored by Katherine Fenech from Bright Lights of America

The Mendocino and Fort Bragg stretch of California coastline is the perfect weekend getaway from San Francisco.

There are so many things to do in Fort Bragg and Mendocino that you’ll want to return for more awesome weekend trips.

There are outdoor adventures aplenty – from kayaking in the Pacific Ocean or the Noyo River, to hiking the beautiful trails in Russian Gulch State Park and Jughandle State Natural Reserve.

If you’ve not ridden a railbike with a bestie or other half before, head to the California Western Railroad . Hop on a pedal-powered railway contraption and take yourselves on a tour through the magical redwood forest.

This railbike tour is one of the best things to do near Mendocino!

If you prefer to kick back and relax, appoint a designated driver, then check out some of the wineries on the Highway 128 Wine Road. There are 31 to choose from that won’t break your budget. Try Yorkville Cellars , Maple Creek Winery , or Foursight Wines for starters.

Don’t miss Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens for some truly Instagram-worthy moments across the 47 acres of blooms, cacti, and sculptures. The gardens butts up to the coastal bluffs, so you can enjoy the rocky California coastline.

It wouldn’t be a trip to Mendocino and Fort Bragg without visiting the renowned Glass Beach! Strewn with thousands of pieces of colored glass, this beach is a must-see, just remember not to take the glass home with you.

After a long day’s hiking, stop at North Coast Brewing Co. Tap Room for a delicious dinner paired with local beers. If you’re looking for something a bit different, try La Playa Mexican Restaurant for dinner. And at breakfast or lunch, you can’t go past Egghead’s Restaurant – a Wizard of Oz themed spot.

Where to Stay in Mendocino

There are lots of affordable places to stay in Mendocino and Fort Bragg. Try the North Cliff Hotel , Mendocino Hotel & Garden , or camp at one of the state parks if you’re budget-conscious.

You can also see Mendocino vacation rentals on VRBO .

Mendocino Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Mendocino 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Mendocino

13. Mount Shasta, California

Explored by Sumeeta from Sumeeta Seeks

One of the best weekend getaways in the USA is in the Northern California town of Mount Shasta.

Only five hours north of San Francisco and just an hour south of Oregon, it’s in the perfect location for a weekend escape on the West Coast.

Mount Shasta is filled to the brim with fun things to do including stunning nature, great restaurants, and a vibrant spiritual community. Best of all, it isn’t overrun with tourists so you’ll feel like you have the place all to yourself!

The region offers great skiing and winter sports during the winter, and in the other seasons, there are a ton of amazing hikes for hiking lovers.

Some of the best include hiking from Castle Lake to Heart Lake, hiking to Castle Dome in Castle Crags State Park, and hiking any of the awesome trails on the mountain of Mt. Shasta itself.

If you prefer relaxation, you can laze about and swim in gorgeous spots including Mossbrae Falls, Hedge Creek Falls, and Lake Siskiyou.

You can finish up an awesome weekend day in nature with some spirituality and an incredible meal.

Be sure to check out the Gateway Peace Garden where you can say a prayer or meditate. Afterwards grab some food at one of the best eateries in town – Seven Suns for vegan fare, Lilys for cafe grub, Crave for Mexican and BBQ, or Bistro No. 107 for burgers and a great selection of microbrews and wines.

In neighboring Dunsmuir, local favorites include Café Maddalena for fine dining and Dunsmuir Brewery Works for local brewery vibes. Mount Shasta is a hidden gem you will be sure to love for your weekend getaway!

Where to Stay in Mt. Shasta

LOGE Mt. Shasta is a hotel-hostel hybrid that features standard hotel rooms, hostel dorms, and camping. There are also great community spaces like an outdoor firepit and a café – perfect if you want to socialize during your trip!

You can find more hotels in Mount Shasta on Booking.com , or find the perfect cozy cabin or chalet on VRBO .

Mount Shasta Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Mount Shasta

14. Boise, Idaho

Explored by Christina from Live a Wilder Life

One of the best weekend getaways in the US is the flourishing and underrated city of Boise, Idaho.

Boise is in a major growth stage and is one of the fastest-growing cities in the US. This thriving city is a knock-out choice for anyone who wants to enjoy nature with big-city amenities.

One of the best things to do in Boise is rent a bike and travel down the Boise River Greenbelt, a 25-mile path that takes you along the river where you can take a dip in the river, stop at a hip eatery, or take in Pacific Northwest artists at the Boise Art Museum.

You’ll want to spend time exploring the walkable downtown area where you can visit Freak Alley, the largest outdoor mural gallery in the North West.

For beer lovers, Boise has a happening craft beer scene, so you’ll want to take some time to do a Boise brewery tour to get a sample of Boise’s best ale.

To end the day, take the moderate hike to Table Rock to get amazing views of the city and watch the sunset go down on the “treasure valley.”

Where to Stay in Boise

When looking for lodging in Boise, you’ll want to stay in Downtown Boise for a central location that doesn’t require a rental car. The Hyatt Place Downtown Boise has a walking score of 100 on TripAdvisor and also includes free breakfast!

If you prefer to “live like a local,” get a rental home in the North End where you can admire the beautiful craftsman homes but still be close enough to downtown to enjoy the city.

Boise Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Boise 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Boise

15. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Explored by Debbie Fettback from WorldAdventurists

Philadelphia was the first capital city of the United States and is full of history. With its iconic historical monuments and innovative museums, the City of Brotherly Love is a wonderful weekend getaway.

The Liberty Bell is an iconic symbol of American independence. It is located within the Liberty Bell Center in Independence National Historic Park. No tickets are required but arrive early to avoid the crowds.

Visit Independence Hall to see where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed. Tickets are free for this too, but you must make a reservation.

Turn up the Rocky theme song on your phone and get pumped up as you run up the famous Rocky Steps in front of the Philadelphia Art Museum.

Then, learn about notorious criminals at the Eastern State Penitentiary and see where Al Capone and Willie Sutton served time. It is both eerie and fascinating to wander between the walls of this U.S. Historical Landmark.

The Benjamin Franklin Museum explores the legacy of one of Philadelphia’s most famous citizens. Furthermore, learn about the lives of early Philadelphians in Elfreth’s Alley.

A hop-on-hop-off bus tour is a great way to get to know the city and to have an easy way to find all the major landmarks and attractions. If you want to see it all, don’t forget a Philadelphia Sightseeing Pass !

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

DoubleTree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City is right in the heart of Philadelphia. The hotel is near attractions such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Reading Terminal Market.

Philadelphia Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Philadelphia 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Philadelphia

16. Baltimore, Maryland

Explored by Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

Baltimore is nestled comfortably in the middle of the East Coast. It’s accessibility makes it a great weekend getaway in the USA.

One of the best things to do in Baltimore is explore the Inner Harbor. It’s an icon of the city and is home to a number of attractions.

The USS Constellation is a historic ship built in the mid 1800’s and used during the Civil War. Explore the numerous museums around the harbor. Get a bite to eat at Miss Shirley’s Cafe or Phillips Seafood for some fresh crab!

For incredible boutique shopping, head to Fells Point. This area of Baltimore had residents before America was even a country!

Fans of street art can visit the colorful Graffiti Alley for a glimpse into the local culture. You can visit Edgar Allen Poe’s house and final resting place near Lexington Market.

If you need a break from the city, head to Druid Hill Park for some open space. There’s a conservatory and botanical gardens in the park. Keep an eye out for a Druid carved into an old tree as well!

The ease of access and variety of things to do in the area makes Baltimore one of the best weekend getaways in the United States.

Where to Stay in Baltimore

The trendy and affordable Hotel RL Baltimore Inner Harbor is conveniently located near all of the Inner Harbor’s top attractions.

You can also search Baltimore vacation rentals on VRBO .

Baltimore Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Baltimore 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Baltimore

17. St. Petersburg, Florida

Explored by Destiny Snyder from Guided by Destiny

St. Petersburg, Florida has so much to offer. It is truly one of the most special places in Florida. Whether you’re looking for white-sand beaches or a lively downtown vibe, St. Pete has got you covered.

If you’re wanting to spend some time in the downtown area, make sure to check out what I believe are some of the best things to do in Downtown St. Petersburg – including a brewery and coffee shop hop! There is such a fun, unique selection all within walking distance of each other.

3 Daughters is an amazing brewery that is a huge indoor and outdoor venue with tons of games as well as a nice variety of drink options. You may have a hard time choosing between all of their delicious ciders and beers, but no worries – they offer flights.

When it comes to the foodie scene, the only thing you’re going to struggle with is narrowing down which places you have the time to hit. If you’re a brunch person, be sure to check out The Library !

Aside from the foodie scene, St. Pete is also rich in art and history. Enjoy noticing all of the fun murals as you wander the streets (or rent a bicycle and see them that way).

Aside from Europe, St. Pete houses the largest collection of Salvador Dali’s work, so grab some tickets to the Dali Museum while you’re here. And of course, don’t forget to kick back, relax, and unwind with a fun tropical drink on the white sands of St. Pete Beach.

Where to Stay in St. Petersburg

The stylish and affordable Avalon Hotel is located in downtown St. Pete, perfect for exploring on foot.

Rather stay on the beach? Prices are a bit higher here, but the Plaza Beach Hotel has reasonable rates and is located right on the beach.

You can also check out VRBO for St. Pete vacation rentals – including beach houses!

St. Petersburg Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in St. Petersburg 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in St. Petersburg

18. Fort Myers and Sanibel Island, Florida

Explored by Lori from Naples Florida Travel Guide

Situated on the Caloosahatchee River just minutes from Florida’s southwest Gulf coast is Fort Myers, Florida and nearby Fort Myers Beach and Sanibel Island, one of the best weekend getaways in the US.

Just a two hour flight from most major east coast and mid-west hubs into the international airport, Fort Myers is a bustling city surrounded by water.

Explore the revitalized retro downtown, and grab lunch at the City Tavern , a great bar with live music and pub style food. The nearby Millennial Brewing Co. is a favorite as well.

History buffs will love visiting the Edison and Ford Estates, the winter homes of good friends Thomas Edison and Henry Ford.

Fort Myers has great kayaking trails , with rentals that are easy on the wallet. Kayaking at Manatee Park or late afternoon shelling at Bunche Beach all make for a relaxing weekend. Then head to Fort Myers Beach for dinner on the water.

For the best shelling in the area, head to Sanibel Island. Pay to park and the beach and shells are free. Rent a bike and pedal the dedicated bike path from one end of the island to the other. Spend a few hours paddling the mangroves at J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge.

Grab a bite to eat at The Lazy Flamingo , always a winner for an inexpensive place to eat on Sanibel. And be sure to catch a fiery sunset from Lighthouse Beach on Sanibel or the Fort Myers Beach pier.

Where to Stay in Fort Myers and Sanibel Island

As for where to stay, small beach cottage rentals on Sanibel and Fort Myers Beach are still an inexpensive option for the weekend and are super family friendly.

For hotels, you can find places to stay in Fort Myers or Sanibel Island on Booking.com .

Fort Myers and Sanibel Island Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Fort Myers 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Sanibel Island 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do around Fort Myers and Sanibel Island

19. Asheville, North Carolina

Explored by Carrie Mann from Trains, Planes and Tuk Tuks

Asheville, NC is one of the top weekend getaways in the United States. This little mountain town has it all – architecture, an incredible food scene, craft breweries, coffee shops, and of course, the mountains.

With just a weekend in Asheville, spend one day in the city and the other day outside. The top urban things to do include visiting the galleries in the River Arts District and exploring the charming shops downtown. The Biltmore Estate is another option, although the admission price is pretty steep.

On your second day, rent a car and drive the Blue Ridge Parkway. Hike to waterfalls at Graveyard Fields, climb Mount Pisgah, and watch the sunset from Black Balsam Knob. These are just a few of the easy hikes near Asheville you could check out.

Asheville is a foodie city. Don’t miss brunch at Sunny Point Cafe – it’s 100% worth the line. Taco Billy and Biscuit Head are other good options in the morning, and Summit Coffee is the place to get your caffeine fix.

The best barbecue is at 12 Bones Ribs (although Luella’s and Buxton Hall are a close second and third). For dinner, Chai Pani is an essential stop.

For something a little more special, try Limones or Rhubarb .

Asheville leads the East Coast in breweries per capita. Stroll around the South Slope and stop in for a flight wherever looks appealing. Eurisko and Burial are top-notch. Give Wicked Weed a skip (it’s a tourist trap) and try the sours at off-the-beaten-path Twin Leaf instead. If you’re up for a drive to East AVL, Highland Brewing is the brewery that started it all – and is still the best in the city.

Where to Stay in Asheville

Downtown Asheville is full of awesome hotels. Aloft Asheville Downtown is perfectly located with mountain views – and it’s pet friendly! Parking is available for just $10 a night.

Prefer a cabin in the mountains or a luxe downtown condo? VRBO has got you covered!

Asheville Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Asheville 🏠 Click here for the best Asheville cabins and vacation rentals 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Asheville

20. Wilmington, North Carolina

Explored by MacKenzie from Rainbow Travel Life

Wilmington, NC is a great choice for a weekend getaway from many of the surrounding cities like Raleigh or Charlotte. The things to do in Wilmington, NC span from awesome beaches to downtown shops and walks!

The best beach for budget travelers is just 20 minutes from Wilmington proper, Kure Beach. It has free parking and several access points, but it does get busy in the summer!

You can also visit the Fort Fisher Recreation Area and historic sites while you are there.

Another inexpensive activity that makes Wilmington a great weekend getaway is exploring New Hanover County Arboretum. Arboretums are fairly common, but the one in Wilmington is unique because of its cute purple and yellow house and sculpture art (like a gnome!) throughout.

It feels like you’ve stepped into a fairy tale when you visit, plus you can enjoy the flowers and plants in bloom.

Lovers of history can also enjoy themselves by exploring the 230-block historic district/downtown. There are three historic houses (the most popular being Bellamy Mansion), a riverwalk, an old cotton exchange turned into a mini-mall, and shops and restaurants aplenty.

Learn about Wilmington on this History and Architecture Walking Tour !

The Riverwalk is a scenic 1.75-mile stroll, and it was voted 2nd best in America according to USA Today. You can even see the USS North Carolina (open for tours) across the Cape Fear River!

Downtown also features dozens of unique shops like Black Cat Shoppe, Cape Fear Rum Cake, and Old Books on Front. There’s also plenty of clothing and souvenir stores if you are into that.

For cheap food, visit the college-student staple Island’s Fresh Mex Grill downtown. If you want to venture towards the university, Sealevel City Vegan Diner also has reasonable prices and yummy food.

Where to Stay in Wilmington

The Hampton Inn in Downtown Wilmington is perfect if you’re wanting to stay within walking distance of the Wilmington Historic District and Riverwalk. Rooms are decently affordable and also include free breakfast.

Wilmington Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Wilmington 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Wilmington

21. Seaside, Oregon

Explored by Chantelle from Flannels or Flip Flops

Seaside is one of the best stops on the Oregon Coast and makes a fantastic weekend getaway! It the cutest little town, and there is so much to do.

The beach is the first fun thing about Seaside. The beach is wide and sandy. There is even a swing set on the beach! This is a great kite flying beach too.

The little town of Seaside is basically packed into a few streets, so it’s easily walkable. There are a ton of cute little shops along the main street.

There is also the Carousel Mall which contains laser tag, video games, a few shops, and of course a working carousel.

Another must-do in Seaside is the tiny aquarium where you get to feed the seals. The aquarium isn’t too exciting, and is very small, for a few bucks you can buy fish and feed the seals. They are so funny and will act silly to get your fish (they are also well-fed, so they aren’t dependent on this food).

However, the most fun you will have in Seaside is to visit Seaside Inverted Experience . It’s a blast, and you’ll leave with great photo souvenirs to make your Instagram followers jealous! Definitely don’t leave town without trying this!

There is no shortage of places to eat and drink in Seaside either! There are fish and chips places, ice cream and candy shops, and bars throughout. Seaside Brewery is a great place for lunch and dinner with awesome drinks! It’s an old jail, now brewery.

There is also karaoke at Twisted Fish Steakhouse and Sports Lounge which is super fun!

Where to Stay in Seaside

There are many affordable hotels and house rentals in Seaside, and because its so small, there isn’t an inconvenient place to stay. You can walk from most anywhere. You can check out all Seaside hotels on Booking.com , or find a rental house on VRBO .

Seaside Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Seaside

22. Broken Bow, Oklahoma Weekend Trip

Explored by Monica Champagne from Champagne on Deck

Broken Bow, Oklahoma is a well-loved getaway for any outdoor lover looking to escape to the woods for some quiet time mixed with the small-town charm of trendy restaurants, wine tastings, live music, and sassy boutiques.

There is something for all types of travelers in Broken Bow, Oklahoma. Hike to waterfalls on the Friends Trail, the newest trail to open up in 15 years. Kayak the Mountain Fork River, explore Beavers Bend State Park, or explore the deer-populated woods by horseback or train.

Dine in Hochatown at places such as Grateful Head Pizza Oven and Taproom or the Hochatown Saloon .

Sip local brew at Beavers Bend Brewery or locally fermented and produced wine at Girls Gone Wine .

Shop Trendy boutiques featuring the area’s unique personality of glamping sass like Hochatime, Savvy Chix, or Shabby Shack.

Broken Bow is a great destination to visit year-round. If you’d like to partake in water activities, visit in May or June when the temperatures are warm.

For lower rates, go in October or November and witness the colorful fall foliage.

Where to Stay in Broken Bow

Beavers Bend State park offers cabin, tent, and RV camping along the shores of beautiful Broken Bow Lake. For a more glamping experience, Broken Bow will more than deliver.

Extravagant cabins ranging in all sizes are available for rent on VRBO , such as Misty Blue Cabin or the Holder Hill Honeymoon Cabin .

You can find more places to stay in Broken Bow on Booking.com .

Broken Bow Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Broken Bow 🏠 Click here for the best vacation rentals in Broken Bow

23. Joshua Tree, California

Explored by Katy Shaw from A Rambling Unicorn

Joshua Tree is a fun weekend destination for nature lovers and art lovers alike.

While most visitors to the area come to see the National Park, there are lots of interesting things to do near Joshua Tree as well. The small town of Joshua Tree is filled with a surprising number of random art installations, vintage treasures, and quirky sculptures.

The World Famous Crochet Museum is a good example. Located downtown in an old Fotomat Kiosk, the museum is a tiny shrine filled with crocheted animals in every shape, color, and size.

For art on a larger scale, the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Museum features 10 acres of impressive sculptures made from junked materials.

While you’re in town, whet your whistle at the Joshua Tree Saloon or browse through the Joshua Tree Farmers Market to connect with the local community.

Unique attractions are abound in the nearby area as well. In the neighboring town of Yucca Valley, Sky Village Swap Meet is filled with 7 acres of outdoor vendors, art, and recycled treasures.

Perched on a hillside above town, Desert Christ Park is home to over 40 steel-reinforced concrete statues depicting biblical scenes.

For those willing to drive a bit further, Salvation Mountain is a literal man-made mountain covered with thousands of gallons of bright paint and religious sayings.

Where to Stay in Joshua Tree

The best time to visit Joshua Tree is in spring or fall as temperatures soar in the summer months. Since it is near a National Park, however, the lodging can be expensive during these times.

There are 8 excellent campgrounds inside the park , but they fill up fast – make reservations early. Other camping options include wilderness backpacking inside of the park or Bureau of Land Management land outside of the park. Joshua Tree vacation rentals are another good option.

Rather stay in a hotel? You can find hotels near Joshua Tree on Booking.com .

Joshua Tree Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in Joshua Tree 🏠 Click here for the best vacation rentals in Joshua Tree 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in Joshua Tree

24. South Lake Tahoe, California Weekend Escape

Explored by Ann Marks from The Unorthodox Traveler

South Lake Tahoe is one of those rare destinations with stunning natural beauty and world-class resorts. The sheer beauty of this alpine lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains calls to travel and adventure enthusiasts.

Believe it or not, but this lake at over 6,000 in elevation has some outstanding beaches! If you care to sit back and relax, enjoy some beach time while checking out the snow-capped mountains.

The lake straddles the California and Nevada state line. If you are looking for 24/7 entertainment, just cross the street into Nevada! The casinos   offer hotel rooms (look for deals online), gambling, entertainment, and restaurants. 

Heavenly Village  offers something for everyone. The village has over 40 shops, restaurants, and live music. There is also a movie theater, ice-skating (in the winter), and miniature golf to help pass the time.

A genuinely unique activity is to ride the  Heavenly Gondola! The 2.4 mile ride to the 10,067 feet summit will leave you speechless! Head to the top of the mountain for picturesque views.

Want more to do once you reach the top? You can access a series of hiking trails from here. These maps features the trails and amenities.

Emerald Bay State Park  offers stunning panoramic views of the granite cliffs, mountains, and lake

If you enjoy history and “castles,” then visit the historic Vikingsholm. The mansion was built in 1929 and is a prime example of Scandinavian architecture. The estate is open for tours in the summer months.

Add some unforgettable moments in your life here in South Lake Tahoe!

Where to Stay in South Lake Tahoe

Basecamp Tahoe South  is a fun hotel, beer garden, and place to chill. Each room has a California adventure theme. The courtyard is an inviting open space to sit back and relax, enjoy a cold brew, or play a game of corn hole.

South Lake Tahoe Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels in South Lake Tahoe 🏠 Click here for the best vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in South Lake Tahoe

25. Everglades National Park, Florida

Explored by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Everglades National Park is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway, especially if you enjoy the great outdoors and getting back in touch with nature.

At 1.5 million acres, this national park is huge so there is always plenty to see and do.

Hiking, fishing, camping, boating and water sports are some of the most popular activities for tourists in the Everglades.

Of course, a tour on a traditional airboat is an absolute must-do. You might even be able to spot an alligator if you’re lucky.

This is the top-rated Everglades airboat tour (1400+ 5-star reviews!)

Airboat tours are made for tourists and might not be the right choice for you if you’re looking for a more authentic experience. A fantastic option is to go on a kayaking tour instead which will truly help you appreciate the beauty of the Everglades National Park.

You’ll be able to enter the maze of mangrove forests and spot rare birds. It’s a truly memorable experience and especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

Where to Stay near Everglades National Park

Miami is a great starting point for a weekend trip to the Everglades but you could also stay in one of the small towns located close to the park. There are a variety of budget hotel options available although one of the cheapest ways to see the park will be to camp at a nearby campsite.

Ivey House Everglades Adventures Hotel is an adorable bed and breakfast located right outside of the national park. You can find more hotels and B&Bs near Everglades National Park on Booking.com .

Vacation rentals are also a great choice when looking for places to stay in the Everglades – find the perfect spot on VRBO .

Everglades National Park Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels near Everglades National Park 🏠 Click here for the best vacation rentals near the Everglades 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do in the Everglades

26. Acadia National Park, Maine for a Weekend

Explored by Neha from Travel Melodies

One of the best weekend trips on the East Coast of the USA is to Acadia National Park.

This park, spread over 47,000 acres by the Atlantic Ocean, boasts, rocky coastline, green forests, iconic lighthouses, and magnificent vistas.

Acadia can be explored by driving along the Park Loop Road, a 27-mile scenic road passing along the major attractions of the park.

Some of the attractions include Thunder Hole and Otter Cliff, where the ocean waves crash onto the cliffs and rocks. Sand beach, surrounded by mountains, is another popular spot.

Cadillac Mountain is the best place to get a dazzling view of this beautiful park – especially during sunrise. It does get very windy at the top, make sure to bring a jacket. The summit can be reached by driving or hiking.

Where to Stay near Acadia National Park

There are campgrounds inside the park that are a great way to stay close to the nature, but they need to be booked well in advance.

There are also many hotels near Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor that are a great choice. Bar Harbor, the small town near the park, also has many shops and places to eat.

You can see all hotels in Bar Harbor on Booking.com , or search for a vacation rental near the park on VRBO .

Acadia National Park Travel Resources 🛏 Click here for top-rated hotels near Acadia National Park 🏠 Click here for the best vacation rentals near Acadia National Park 📍 Click here for the best tours and fun things to do near Acadia NP

There are so many amazing weekend getaway destinations in the USA – it’s a good thing you have 52 weekends in a year, right?

With all of these wonderful places, it’ll be hard to narrow it down to one destination.

So, what are you waiting for? Start putting those free weekends to good use by planning your next USA weekend trip!

Where will you go on your next USA weekend trip?

Pin this on Pinterest for future weekend trip planning!

After traveling outside of the US for the first time while studying abroad, I quickly developed a love for travel and an obsession for exploring as much of the world as possible. Now, I'm on a mission to teach college students, young adults, and anyone else who wants to see the world how to travel while minimizing their expenses and maximizing their experiences.

Jetsetting Fools

Travel Far. Discover More. Spend Less.

24 Best Weekend Getaways in the USA for 2024

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Craving a vacation, but short on paid time off? No worries: you can get your travel fix on a quick US weekend trip! The United States may be vast, but it is also well-connected – and there is no shortage of short US trip ideas. To help you effortlessly plan your end-of-the-work-week vacation escape, we have rounded up the best weekend getaways in the USA!

Where To Go For a Long Weekend in USA?

We have first-hand experience balancing the tiring work week with easy weekend getaways. Having spent years grinding away on 60-plus-hour work weeks and looking forward to Friday afternoon on Monday morning. To get through the grueling workload, we became pros at planning the best weekend getaways in the US.

Our Friday-to-Sunday 3-day trips took us to destinations across America. From top US cities to lesser-known locales, we discovered many places to go on a mini weekend getaway.

Some of our favorite long US weekend destinations landed us on sandy beaches, atop rugged mountains, in historic towns and amid modern metropolises. As a bonus, the quick US vacation spots we chose were highlighted by regional cuisine, local craft beer or the area’s best wine.

What Makes the Best US Weekend Getaways?

Before we answer your burning question, Where should I go for a weekend in USA? , let’s chat about what makes good weekend trips. Limited to just a 3-day trip, you will want to maximize your experience. We are detailing our criteria for what makes the best long weekend getaways destinations in the US.

How To Get To Fun Getaway Trips

When planning the best long weekend trip in US, you need to consider how you will get to your destination. Will you need to fly? How long is the flight? Are there direct flights? Is it possible to drive? How long will it take?

You don’t want to spend an exorbitant amount of time on planes or in cars. The best long weekend trips in US will be relatively easy to get to from your current location.

How To Get Around on USA Weekend Getaways

An often-overlooked consideration for 3-day trips in USA is how you will get around your destination. Is the area walkable? How close are the attractions? Is there public transport? Is it easy to use? Does the destination have Uber/Lyft? Will you need to rent a car ?

When you plan a quick getaway for the weekend, make sure there are no surprises in the effort and cost involved in getting around. 

What To Do on 3-Day Vacations in USA

Of course, the best weekend vacations in US will offer activities and entertainment that are suitable to your style. What activities does the destination offer? Do you need a ticket or reservation? If so, are there tickets available? We use Viator to find tickets, tours and reviews for the best attractions in the USA.

Furthermore, if you plan to fill your itinerary for fun US weekend trips with outdoor activities, be sure to check the typical weather at your destination before booking your trip.

Affordable Weekend Getaways United States

As you make plans for short vacation trips, you will want to keep your budget in mind.  Some of the top weekend getaways in the US can be pricey – especially when considering airfare , accommodations , city transport, activities and eating out over a short period of time. If you are looking for cheap getaways in the US, be sure to price out your trip before booking anything that is non-refundable.

That said, travel insurance may help cover expenses paid when plans go awry (and, these days, we all know how quickly that can happen!). Check the affordable rates at World Nomads to insure your weekend getaways in United States.

Budget Weekend Getaways in US

If you are worried about the best getaways in the US costing a bundle, we don’t blame you! Travel costs even for the best mini vacations in the US can add up. 

To be honest though, we believe that any destination can be affordable! In fact, we have created a step-by-step guide to help you plan the best cheap weekend getaways in USA – plus, we share our free vacation budget planner. Get it now!  

24 BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN THE USA

Alright, so what are the best weekend getaways in the USA? In our roundup, we feature the best cities for a weekend trip in the United States. The long weekend destinations we feature are perfect for traveling couples, groups of friends and families. At the end of the list, we offer our insider tips on how to plan the best mini vacation is the US – including packing tips !

Save, Pin or Bookmark our US Weekend Trip Destination Guide to plan your getaway!

#1 New York City, New York

When it comes to the best cities for a long weekend, New York City tops our list! The Big Apple dazzles visitors with iconic sights, incredible attractions and fabulous food. The only problem with choosing NYC as a quick getaway for the weekend is that there are so many things to do!

New York City offers something for everyone – which is why it ranks as one of the best weekend destinations USA. History buffs will be just enthralled by the city as fashionistas. Fans of Art Deco architecture get as excited about NYC as foodies. Although the weather is seasonal, there isn’t a bad time to visit NYC – each season has its perks.

Travelers will find there are endless ways to plan a fun 3-day trip to NYC. Even budget travelers can explore the city on a dime – find all of our tips on how to Visit NYC on a Budget .

First-time visitors on short vacation trips to New York City can spend the weekend seeing the highlights – like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Central Park. Return travelers, who have already checked off their bucket list of must-see sights, can instead plan a weekend of unique sightseeing and neighborhood discovery. Are you planning a weekend trip to NYC for the Holidays? Get all our top tips for Christmas in New York !

Use the advice in our New York Itinerary for planning your quick NYC getaway!

#2 San Francisco, California

San Francisco ticks all the boxes for a fabulous weekend getaway in the US! It is simple to get to, easy to get around without a car, and is packed with an array of entertaining sights that travelers can choose to visit on their trip.

On getaways for the weekend, visitors can take in SF’s iconic sights – like the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39 – and ramble through the streets on a classic cable car. However, the reason we think it is one of the best weekend getaways is that you can see so much of the city by the bay on a short trip!

Even on a 2-day trip, visitors have time to discover San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown, explore Haight-Ashbury and wander through Golden Gate Park. Even better, there is plenty of time to devour some of the best eats. If you happen to have more time, consider a California Coastal Road Trip !

Plan the best short weekend getaways to SF with our San Francisco Weekend Itinerary .

#3 Denver, Colorado

For a fun weekend trip in the US, Denver definitely fits the bill! In fact, when I lived in nearby Boulder, which is less than an hour from the city, we loved spending weekends in Denver. Sports, shopping, nightlife and nearby nature are just a few of the reasons Denver ranks as one of the best places in the US for a weekend getaway.

While Denver, undeniably, appeals to sports fans and craft beer enthusiasts, there are many more reasons to visit the Mile High City. The thriving downtown, which is easy to discover on foot, features diverse neighborhoods, magnificent museums and lovely city parks.

Traveling with family? Denver is one of the best weekend destinations in the US for family fun! The Denver Zoo and Elitch Gardens Amusement Park are right in the heart of the city.

However, what makes Denver one of the great weekend getaways in the US is the spectacular nature just outside the city limits. The top places to explore that are just a mere hour away are Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks and the Flatirons in Boulder.

Use our tips for three-day getaway in our Denver Weekend Itinerary .

#4 Portland, Oregon

Hip and funky, Portland is one of the coolest weekend trips in US! “Stumptown” boasts a relaxed atmosphere, a phenomenal foodie scene and plenty of outdoor space. After my initial visit, Portland (and all of Oregon for that matter) became one of my favorite quick vacation destinations.

Perfect for a casual weekend trip, visitors can settle into the vibe and explore the city on two wheels – just like locals do. Spending time in the central historic Pearl District is a must, but it’s just a place to start! Visitors to Portland will want explore other parts of the city – from the famous rose gardens to the intriguing neighborhoods, like Hawthorne and Division Street. Time permitting, visiting the amazing Multnomah Falls is one of the best weekend vacation ideas in Portland!

For the best 3-day weekend getaways to Portland, travelers should plan where to eat, too. The food in Portland ranges from fabulous food trucks and fancy donuts to 5-star dining – and every bite is amazing.

We wrap our specific tips in our 3-Day Portland Itinerary . 

#5 San Diego, California

Mmm. San Diego. Drink it in. San Diego is ideal for beach weekend getaways and summertime fun! The sunny coastal city is a dream for visitors looking for some quality R&R. Easy going and entertaining, San Diego is the quintessential California destination and one of the best places for a long weekend trip.

For many travelers, the beach is the main draw, but downtown SD is a must-see, too. Visitors who can tear themselves away from the sandy shoreline (and those visiting outside of the warm summer season) should spend time in the Gaslamp District, Little Italy and the expansive Balboa Park.

One of the highlights of San Diego weekend trips is iconic Coronado Island, which is fun to visit in all seasons!

Find more of our tips for SD weekend getaways in our San Diego Itinerary .

#6 Boston, Massachusetts

A wicked pissa , Boston gets our vote as one of the best weekend trips in America! Steeped in history, yet vibrant and modern, Boston appeals to an array of travelers.

By day, visitors can tour some of America’s most historic sites, wander through picture-perfect parks and go on a Duck Boat Tour , a bit of a Boston oddity. At night, Boston tourists will want to take a seat at one of the best seafood restaurants, tuck into a legendary tavern or cheer on the Red Sox at a baseball game.

While “Beantown” ranks as one of the top long weekend destinations in the summertime, we personally think it is one of the best fall getaways in US. Boston is absolutely gorgeous decorated in autumn leaves amongst the crisp weather; and it’s also a great time to enjoy the fine museums and cozy taverns.

Use our Boston Weekend Itinerary to help plan your trip to the city! 

#7 Seattle, Washington

Anyone looking for the best short vacation in the US should take a look at Seattle. The Emerald City boasts intriguing architecture, cool cafes and an abundance of outdoor space – making Seattle one of the fun weekend getaways in USA!

There are endless ways to plan a weekend trip to Seattle, but the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Waterfront Park are must-sees (and can all easily be visited in a single day). Historic Pioneer Square, the unique Seattle Underground and Bainbridge Island are more top attractions not to be missed.

Experiencing the coffee culture is a highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest, but especially so in Seattle. Not only is the city home of coffee giant Starbucks, but is well-known for it’s many local Seattle coffee roasters, too.

Get more advice in our 3-Day Seattle Itinerary . 

#8 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

For a long time, we only thought of Philadelphia as a layover city. However, when we finally ventured out of the airport, we fell in love with Philly – so much so that we now consider it to be one of the best long weekend getaways in the US!

Philadelphia is absolutely packed with fascinating historical sights – from the famous Liberty Bell to the iconic Independence Hall, where the United States Declaration of Independence was signed by the country’s founding fathers.

That said, there is so much more to the City of Brotherly Love than the past! South Philadelphia is filled with eclectic sights, street art murals and, of course, the best Philly Cheesesteaks. Meanwhile, the north side of Philly hosts an array of museums, the famed ‘Rocky steps’ and heaps of craft breweries.

Read more reasons in our Philadelphia Itinerary .

#9 Chicago, Illinois

There is no doubt about it: A weekend in Chicago is one of the cool weekend trips in the US. Soaring skyscrapers, riverboat tours, shopping and spacious parks dotted with monuments and art are top attractions. As if that is not enough, the food scene in Chicago is amazing, as well!

There are many ways to plan a quick weekend getaway to Chicago, but we recommend first-time Windy City visitors get a little taste of everything (literally!). Explore downtown Chicago on foot and by boat, eat the most amazing meals (hello, deep-dish pizza!), and balance out the feasting with long walks on the Lakefront Trail, in Lincoln Park or along the 606 Bloomingdale Trail.

In the summertime, catch a baseball game in Chicago and we bet you will have one of the best weekend getaways in the USA!

For detailed tips use our 3 Days in Chicago Itinerary .

#10 Austin, Texas

With stellar live music, excellent BBQ and Texas-sized sights, Austin easily ranks as one of the best long weekend vacations in the USA. As a bonus, Austin delivers big on outdoor activities, as well!

If you are looking to escape frigid temperatures elsewhere in the States, be assured that Austin is one of the fabulous winter getaways in the US! High temps hover in the 60s throughout the winter, which is significantly warmer than most of the United States during wintertime.

Some Austin visitors could probably spend their entire weekend trip on Sixth Street – Austin’s legendary bar street (and if that is what you want to do, we won’t judge!).

However, we highly recommend spending the days exploring the Texas Capitol building, Lady Bird Lake, the University of Texas Longhorns campus and the incredible Barton Springs. Of course, listening to some live tunes is essential – Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World! 

We share specifics for the best quick getaways in our Weekend in Austin Itinerary .

#11 New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is one of the classic, great long weekend trips in the United States. Perfect for girls weekends, couples’ trips and even family vacations, NOLA welcomes tourists of all kinds.

New Orleans is a feast for the senses – from the buzzing street scenes to the jazz music that is perpetually played by performers. Weekend visitors to the Big Easy should wander through the fabulous French Quarter, dine on divine Southern dishes, step into a spooky cemetery and have a drink on Bourbon Street.

On a well-planned New Orleans weekend getaway, travelers can even plan adventures beyond the city center, taking in the sights in nearby districts or further afield on a swamp boat trip or plantation tour.

Read why NOLA is one of the best short trips in the US: How To Spend 3 Days in New Orleans . 

#12 Glacier National Park, Montana

Hands down, Glacier National Park in Montana is one of the best places to go for long weekend in the outdoors. Although it can be a bit tricky to get to depending on where you are coming from, trust us, the Crown of the Continent is worth the effort!

Highlighted by soaring mountains and crystal-clear lakes, Glacier NP is stunningly beautiful. Hikers will take to the incredible and rewarding trails, but you don’t necessarily need to get out of your car to enjoy the beauty. Going To The Sun Road takes visitors through the heart of GNP up to Logan Pass on the Continental Divide.

As one of the best summer weekend getaways in the US, advance planning is essential. Do a little research before your trip to decide which Glacier National Park Hikes you may want to complete. Not into hiking? No problem. After driving through the scenic park, peruse the boutique shops or get a spa treatment in quaint Whitefish – or sip locally produced craft beer in cute Kalispell .

Use our detailed 3-Day Glacier National Park for tips to plan your trip!

#13 Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas has long been touted as one of the best quick weekend getaways in the United States. Developed as a tourist destination since 1931, Sin City’s neon lights have been welcoming weekend visitors for decades.

While Las Vegas ranks as one of the top quick weekend getaways in USA for gambling and partying, there are plenty of other activities in the Entertainment Capital of the World. Adventure attractions, legendary Las Vegas shows, mesmerizing museums and celebrity chef restaurants all aim to please.

Once you have checked off your list of must-see sights in Vegas, leave The Strip behind and go on one of the excellent excursions – like a day trip to the Grand Canyon or the Hoover Dam .

For tips on what to see and where to eat, use our Las Vegas Itinerary Guide for First Timers .

#14 Phoenix, Arizona

Ranking as one of the best long weekend getaways in USA, Phoenix doesn’t disappoint! With a revitalized and vibrant downtown, desert hiking close to the city center, a sprinkle of history and heaps of trendy dining options, the Valley of the Sun is an oasis of fun.

Although we do not recommend visiting the scorching desert city in the summertime, it is a fabulous place to visit in the wintertime. In fact, it’s one of the Best Winter Getaways in the United States !

Top wintertime activities include hiking at Phoenix Mountain Preserve, attending Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Gardens, dining al fresco at hip restaurants (like Postino and The Vig) and sipping local craft beer (check out Four Peaks and Angel’s Trumpet!).

Use our guides to the Best Phoenix Hikes and all the Top Things to do in PHX !

#15 Spokane, Washington

Spokane flies under the radar as far as getaways go, but we are going to let you in on the secret: Spokane is one of the best long weekend trips in the US! The city is casual – almost quaint – but has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.

Outdoor activities abound in Spokane – from Riverfront Park where the beautiful Spokane Falls tumble downstream to the 37-mile Centennial Trail highlighted by art sculptures to the impressive gardens at Manito Park.

Historic enclaves – like the Browne’s Addition Neighborhood and classic Davenport Hotel – tell the story of Spokane’s past. Meanwhile, modern craft breweries and the youthful Gonzaga campus keep Spokane moving forward.

Plan your weekend getaway using our list of Things To Do in Spokane .

#16 Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is often overlooked as a destination, but we think it is one of the best weekend getaways in America. The capital of the Buckeye State has a flair for the arts and thrives on community events – plus, the people are really friendly!

Weekend visitors can discover the many downtown districts (German Village is a must!), explore the numerous Columbus Parks  (Franklin Park Conservatory is a gem!) and feast on the city’s best food at North Market. The Short North is the hip place for nightlife – and features heaps of eateries, bars and fun events, like the Gallery Hop.

The best time to visit Cbus is in the summertime – when the festival season is in full swing and the Columbus Clippers minor league baseball team takes the field. Although the weather starts to cool off quickly in the autumn, it is the best time to experience the thrill of the Ohio State Buckeyes football season.

Use our guide to help plan your long weekend trip to Columbus . 

#17 Washington DC

As America’s capital, Washington DC regularly makes the list of Best Cities for Weekend Trips USA – and it makes our list for the best short trips in the US, too!

DC offers an incredible array of activities that appeal to a wide range of visitors. Not only is Washington DC a good choice for the best weekend getaways for families, but it is ideal for couples, groups of friends and solo travelers as well.

On weekend trips to DC, travelers have time to experience the essentials of the city – like visiting the monuments and museums on the National Mall, touring the Capitol Building and seeing the White House. Plus, there is plenty of time to visit the unique neighborhoods – like the Wharf, Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter, and Georgetown.

Plan your weekend getaway with our 3-Days in DC Itinerary .

#18 Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is often touted as one of the best girl weekend getaways – and while I can’t argue that fact, I actually think it is an ideal quick trip for all travelers! Savannah exudes Southern charm (it’s nickname is the Hostess City of the South!) with its pleasant squares, time-worn mansions, and eerily beautiful moss-covered trees.

Weekend visitors are warmly welcomed to the city that is best explored on foot and with wonder. History (and some say ghosts) lurk around every corner and savory Southern dishes simmer in restaurant kitchens around the city. Trust us, Savannah cuisine is not to be missed!

Even though Savannah has a small-town vibe, it really comes alive at night. Weekend guests can partake in live music and festive cocktails at the city’s numerous outdoor bars – or keep it cozy in one of Savannah’s secret speakeasys.

Use our quick trip ideas in our Savannah Itinerary to plan your vacation!

#19 Nashville, Tennessee

There is no question about it: Nashville is one of the best weekend getaways in the United States! Nicknamed Music City, Nashvegas and even Smashville, Nashville knows how to show weekend visitors a good time.

Many of the top attractions revolve around the epic country music scene – but visitors don’t need to be country music fans to appreciate the sights and sounds of Nashville. The Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum are top picks for sightseeing, but city sights – like the Capitol Mall State Park – are equally interesting.

That said, two things not to miss in Nashville are the Honkytonk bars on Lower Broadway and the famous Hot Chicken from Hattie B’s. 

Plan your best weekend getaways using our 3 Days in Nashville Itinerary . 

#20 Santa Barbara, California

Situated on the cool California coastline, Santa Barbara is a classic coastal town that is ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway. In fact, we think Santa Barbara is one of the best weekend vacations in the US for its laid-back ambiance, hip wine district and ample outdoor activities.

On arrival, visitors will want to head straight for West Beach and Stearns Wharf for time in the sun and sand. Later in the afternoon, travelers can take a leisurely stroll up State Street, shopping at the boutique shops and visiting art galleries. However, we highly recommend detouring into the cool Funk Zone to get a taste of local wines from the many Santa Barbara tasting rooms. 

While we think Santa Barbara is an ideal weekend vacation on its own, ambitious weekend travelers can tour more of the Cali Coast to nearby destinations – like Malibu , Solvang and Los Angeles.

Get our advice for planning long weekend getaways with our detailed guide to Driving the California Coast . 

#21 Cincinnati, Ohio

A classic midwestern metropolis with a penchant for craft beer and sports, Cincinnati, OH is a prime destination for the best weekend trips in the US. In fact, growing up in Columbus , just a short two-hour drive away, Cincy has long been one of my favorite US getaways.

Visiting the fun Over the Rhine district is an absolute must on a trip to Cincinnati. Home to the Queen City’s hottest restaurants and coolest craft breweries, visitors could spend their entire weekend trip in the district eating and drinking…but then they would miss out on everything else Cincy has to offer!

Cincinnati is rife with fabulous and intriguing museums (many of which are free) and the city’s architecture is superb. That said, we actually rank Cincinnati as one of the best weekend vacations in US for the sporting events. The Cincinnati Reds are the beloved hometown baseball team and catching a game is a highlight of a weekend getaway to Cincy in the summer!

Read why Cincy ranks as a top weekend getaway in our article, Things To Do in Cincinnati !

#22 Louisville, Kentucky

With excellent museums, quirky attractions, cool districts and lots of bourbon, it is easy to understand why Louisville, KY ranks as one of the best weekend getaways in the US.

The city’s top attractions to visit on a weekend trip are the famous Louisville Slugger Museum (featuring baseball memorabilia), a repurposed pedestrian bridge (where trekkers can walk to Indiana) and the hip Nulu district (which is the place to go for food and drink).

Of course, a weekend getaway to Louisville would not be complete without sampling some of Derby City’s finest bourbon. Distillery Tours and Tastings abound in Louisville and it marks the official beginning of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Is beer your beverage of choice? There are numerous Louisville Breweries producing tasty local craft beer, as well!

Whether you are looking for cool weekend trips in the US for a guys’ weekend, a relaxing couples’ getaway or a fun family vacation, Louisville fits the bill!

Find out more in our article, Top Things To Do in Louisville .

#23 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A long way from its gritty Iron City past, Pittsburgh has become quite hip in recent years, which is why we rank it as one of the most fun cities for a weekend trip in USA.

The Burgh is marked by modern museums, historic sights, iconic architecture and an astounding number of beautiful bridges. Better yet, the downtown core is surrounded by casually cool neighborhoods that are a pleasure to explore on foot.

The North Side (along with its quirky attractions) and the revitalized Strip District (packed with fun bars and eateries) are top Pittsburgh districts to explore…and both are within walking distance from the city center. 

Toss a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game in the summer into the mix and there is no doubt that you, too, will be raving about how Steel City is one of the most fun weekend trips in the US. 

Use our list of Pittsburgh Things To Do to plan your best weekend trip!

#24 Miami, Florida

While Miami has long been a popular destination for snowbirds escaping long and cold winters , the Magic City makes a fantastic spot for weekend trips all year long! Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, a shopping extravaganza or just some R&R on the beach, Miami has you in mind!

From ritzy South Beach to hip Coconut Grove, Miami’s neighborhoods offer a different vibe for travelers seeking some weekend fun in the sun. Sports also features heavily as top Miami things to do, with the NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB all fielding professional teams. Additionally, there’s a certain soccer player named Messi attracting a lot of attention over at Inter Miami CF!

How To Plan the Best Weekend Getaways in US

We have highlighted the prime weekend vacation spots in US, but we have a few more tips for how to plan your weekend trip.

Organize your Weekend Getaway USA

While we are all for taking USA weekend trips on a whim, a little research and organization is essential for great weekend trips in the US. Get (and stay) organized for your weekend vacation with our Trip Planning Printables !

Booking Flights for Long Weekend Getaways in US

If flying to your weekend destination is the most convenient option, you will want to score a deal on your tickets. When we buy plane tickets, we always look at Skyscanner first, so that we can compare prices and easily see the cheapest flights.

For more airfare tips, read our guide to Booking the Best Flights .

Where To Stay on Long Weekend Trips in USA

On short trips in the US, we think it is essential to stay in centrally located accommodations. You will want to be in the heart of your destination so that it is easy to reach the must-see sights.

While we usually opt for Airbnb during our travels, for quick weekend trips we actually recommend staying in a hotel. The Airbnb fees can be exorbitant on short stays and coordinating check in and check out can be time consuming. A hotel, on the other hand, will likely have 24 hour check in and you can search for the best hotel prices on Booking.com .

Find more of our tips in our article, Booking the Best Hotels .

What You Will Need to Pack for U.S. Weekend Getaways

Packing your backpack or suitcase for a weekend trip can be a bit tricky. You will want to make sure you bring everything you need…without over-packing.

Use our Packing Hacks or top space-saving tips and find all of our advice on our Packing Page .

We think the lighter the better when it comes to packing. It is best to plan coordinating outfits that can be layered. Also, determine which everyday items are necessary for such a short trip (especially if you are staying in a hotel where amenities are provided).

Looking for somewhere off the beaten path? 

Start planning your USA Trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information on traveling!

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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The best couple vacations in the US to find romance and adventure

Plan a romantic getaway for two to these dreamy destinations for couples vacations in America.

Unlike honeymoon destinations —where solitude, sexiness and staying in are the name of the game—these cities and towns offer plenty of activities, gorgeous scenery and amazing dining options for a fun-filled vacation geared towards exploring someplace new.

From the vineyards of Napa to the slopes of Aspen, the beaches of Hawai'i to the deserts of Arizona , there’s a perfect couples vacation for all interests. If beautiful architecture and majestic oaks get you feeling warm and fuzzy, Savannah is for you. Does a great party with a side of incredible food and history give you the feels? Head to New Orleans .

RECOMMENDED: Most romantic getaways in the U.S.A.

You can book a stay at one of the most romantic hotels in America or go bigger and plan a whole trip where memories will be made and love connections will be strengthened. These excellent ideas for couples vacations in America mix travel and romance in dreamy destinations that are the perfect backdrop for love.

Whatever you and your special someone are into, these couples vacation destinations are sure to entertain, intrigue and hopefully bring you closer. For an extra dose of romance, accompany your invitation with a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a lovely box of chocolates.

RECOMMENDED:   8 best floating Airbnbs in the U.S.

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Best couples vacations

1.  Napa Valley, CA

Majestic, lush landscapes, glorious weather, fantastic dining and the country’s best wineries make Napa Valley not only one of the most romantic getaways in America, but the world over. Whether you’re looking for a scenic bike tour or just want to spend the day relaxing at a 5-star spa , this Northern California destination is perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons or just some couple-time.

2.  Maui, HI

Of Hawaii’s islands, this one gets top billing for secluded beaches , scenic hikes and resorts that will make you and your partner forget the worries of the life you left on the mainland. At every turn, expect a combination of island escapades and cultural immersions , backed by famous rainbows and starry skies. You'll probably forget about all those other islands.

3.  Hunter Mountain, NY

Upstate New York has some of the best and most beautiful countryside on the eastern seaboard. The summers are sensational, the fall foliage is fantastic...and come the holiday season, it offers a winter wonderland of snow-coated shenanigans. The adjacent town of Hunter offers a warm, small-town feel and while it's far cry from any near by city, it reminds you of a time when you actually went to local stores to buy essentials and didn't order them through a website. A by-gone era indeed. The locals are quite used to visitors, strangers from 'out of town' and 'city folk' so they're friendly and extremely helpful. There are several great places to stay, but we believe the best is the Hunter Mountain Sanctuary , where you can enjoy a roaring open fire, a glass of wine and gaze back at the mountain, be it covered in lush, green vegetation or a smooth blanket of pure white snow. Here you can well and truly switch off...if you want to.

4.  Aspen, CO

Snow bunnies who love hitting the slopes for fresh powder in the morning and cuddling up by a raging fire in the evening will find all their winter wonderland dreams come true in Aspen. Couples love Gant Aspen’s luxurious condominiums. Each condo comes with a full kitchen for making romantic meals and a heated ourdoor pool. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, daily skiing and leisure time in historic downtown Aspen are easily within grasp.

5.  San Francisco, CA

Cable cars, colorful Victorian architecture and Californian cooking make San Francisco a terrific getaway. Traverse the famously hilly landscape for stunning views of the bay and skyline while taking delight in all the ways that the city’s charming history collides with its futuristic, tech-driven present. Dinner-and-a-movie is one of the most romantic dates in town at Foreign Cinema . At this swoon-worthy restaurant, doors open onto a courtyard where classic films are played outdoors under the stars. The elegant menu matches the ambiance.

6.  Savannah, GA

Horse-drawn carriages, Spanish moss, cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture make this coastal Georgia city one of the South’s most romantic destinations. Lounge on the sandy beach on Tybee Island , then pay a visit to the ruins of Wormsloe , Savannah’s oldest standing structure and the 18th century home of carpenter Noble Jones. A photo together on its oak-lined, moss-shrouded boulevard is the only souvenir you’ll need to bring home.

7.  Cape Cod, MA

The eastern peninsula of Massachusetts is one of the East Coast’s finest summer destinations. Harbors with darling lighthouses, chowder shacks, historic architecture, boats of all varieties, cranberry bogs, windswept beaches and small towns make for a relaxing trip enjoying each other’s company. Head into town for upscale seafood (with generous portions) at Impudent Oyster . Consider booking at Chatham Bars Inn Resort & Spa, which offers 25 acres of ocean-front property as well as amenities like a private beach and a heated oceanfront pool.

8.  Woodstock, VT

Escape to an idyllic pastoral haven at this quintessential New England village. A fresh-off-the-fields farmers' market, a general store that dates back to the 1850s, town suppers and some of the most colorful, crisp fall foliage around make this tiny town (population just over 3,000) an off-the-beaten-track destination. For a breakfast or lunch that even locals swear by, grab a rustic table at Mon Vert Café . Here, the coffee is almost as good as the homemade baked goods and the sandwiches are savory delights.

9.  Jackson Hole, WY

Whether you can’t get enough of skiing in the winter, want to hike across a beautiful Western landscape or are just looking for a nice place to stay and eat before you venture into Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is for you. With an ultra-modern domed ceiling, romantic lighting, chic decor and a menu heavy on fresh fish, The Kitchen is a favorite date spot in Jackson. Seeking the rustic feel of a cabin but really need modern amenities and accommodations? Book a stay at Spring Creek Ranch , where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the mountains, in rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and cable television.

10.  San Diego, CA

Everyone has heard of San Diego, but not everyone has actually visited. And you should. It's a small city, relatively speaking for the USA, but it's all about location...and it doesn't get much better than this. Situated on the glorious Pacific coast, there are beaches a-plenty to chose from and the Old Town makes for a fun place to explore to find somewhere good to eat. America's finest city didn't just give itself that moniker and for a significantly slowed-down pace, Southern California's mini-metropolis is hard to top.

11.  Tucson, AZ

Laid back and full of nature, Tucson is perfect for couples looking to take in a vast and iconic desert landscape, Southwest culture and art, scenic hiking and rest and relaxation in the warm, dry climate. To really take advantage of the amazing weather and enjoy the ultimate mix of relaxation and activities, stay at Westward Look Resort . Here, challenge your partner to a game of tennis, hit the trails on horseback, find peace at the amazing spa or take a refreshing dip in the saline pool.

12.  New Orleans, LA

The Big Easy is particularly fantastic for lovebirds. Partners who can’t agree on what is most important on a vacation—sightseeing, excellent food , adventure or relaxation—will find their perfect compromise when indulging in live jazz music, river boat rides, strolls through the French Quarter, Cajun food and ghost tours. Splurge on a stay in the French Quarter at the splendid Audubon Cottages . The private, gorgeously decorated cottages come with plenty of amenities, including butler service, while the shared Tuscan-style courtyard boasts a fabulous salt pool.

13.  Miami, FL

While many destinations in Florida are reputed tourist-heavy, there’s something to be said about Miami’s vibrant art scene. Worry not: Plenty of beaches and fantastic pools will satisfy your hunger for some tanning time. Ready to splurge on dinner ? Tropical plants, twinkling lights and so much romance , Komodo Miami is a sexy choice for enjoying high-end Asian fare.

14.  Charleston, SC

Founded in 1670, Charleston is as historic as it is gorgeous: streets lined with pastel antebellum architecture and an exquisite French quarter. Make sure to stop by the Battery Promenade for views of the Charleston harbor. While appreciating the oozing-with-charm downtown Charleston, stop at the Peninsula Grill . Located off Marketplace, this renowned eatery serves some of the finest elevated Southern food in town.

15.  Nantucket, MA

This tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod positively drips in history. A favorite holiday location for many that could be considered US royalty, including the Kennedys and the Bidens. The island also played a significant role during the age where whaling was common:  Moby Dick begins here. And while that doesn't seem like a particularly pleasant period of history, you should remind yourself that at least it wasn't en masse , like it is today. Visit the Egan Maritime Institute & Museum for undoubtedly the best insight into the islands rich history. It also boasts the biggest single collection of work by celebrated marine artist Rodney Charman . The streets have that quaint, colonial feel to them and it truly feels like you've found tranquility. Enjoy the freshly-caught seafood and have a hearty laugh at the property prices. 

16.  New York City, NY

The Big Apple is not the quietest or most serene city in the world, but that might not be what you're looking for. If you're looking for adventure with your nearest and dearest, this is the place to come. From exploring Manhattan on foot or braving the subway to choosing from a near-infinite number of bars and restaurants that cater for every single conceivable taste. From sauntering through Central Park to strolling alongside the Hudson River. There is a ton of stuff to do here and let's face facts, with London and Paris taking the number two and three spots respectively, New York City is the most Christmassy place you can visit on the planet with only exception being Santa's actual grotto in the North Pole.

17.  Los Angeles, CA

The City of Angels is actually a sight to behold. It's as unique as every other major metropolitan city in the US and the palm trees, blue skies, wide open spaces and beautiful, endless sandy beaches, make it a fun place to check out. If you're a movie or TV buff, then so much the better, but...you don't have to be. Explore Santa Monica and Venice  where there are a lot of great restaurants and bars, plus shopping in Beverly Hills, walking in the hills, cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway or along Mulholland Drive or hike up to the Hollywood sign and gaze down upon the city lights below. 

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Fantastic US Road Trips That Are Fun For All The Family

Posted: October 19, 2023 | Last updated: October 19, 2023

Hitting the road together

Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, New York

Of the 11 spindly stretches of water that make up New York’s Finger Lakes, Cayuga is perhaps the easiest to explore via car. It’s skimmed by an 87-mile (140km) scenic byway that’s designed to be taken at a leisurely pace. Running from Seneca Falls in the north to Ithaca in the south and looping around the opposite shore, Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway is ideal for families seeking a mix of outdoor adventures, pretty scenery and cute villages to explore.

You could do it in a day or even a couple of hours, but that would mean missing out on fun such as exploring the water via boat or kayak, pottering around art studios and quirky shops in Ithaca and lunching at one of the wineries just off the byway.  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge , home to bald eagles and waterfowl, is a particular highlight, as is the 215-foot (66m) cascade in Taughannock Falls State Park.

George Parks Highway, Alaska

You could drive long stretches of George Parks Highway and barely see another soul or vehicle, which makes it better suited to families with older children. It’s the perfect adventure for outdoorsy types, thanks to its 323 miles (520km) of awe-inspiring wilderness. It will take a full afternoon at least (including stop-offs) but it's well worth it. Running between the cities of Anchorage and Fairbanks, it skirts the eastern edge of Denali National Park, before cutting across a corner of the six million-acre wilderness.

As the only road that ventures into Denali, the highway provides an accessible way to see its alpine forest and mountain slopes, home to curly-horned Dall sheep, wolves, grizzlies and black bears. Look out for Denali itself – North America’s tallest peak – and hike by rivers and lakes. Allow time to explore Fairbanks and Anchorage, each with an appealing mix of galleries, museums and family-friendly dining. Visit in summer for the midnight sun, or from August to April for a chance to see the sky swirl with the Northern Lights.

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Extraterrestrial Highway, Nevada

Kids (and grown-ups) who love sci-fi will adore traveling along Nevada State Route 375. Running for 98 miles (158km) between Crystal Springs and Tonopah, it can be covered in a couple of hours and is an easy drive from Las Vegas. The fun is in the quirky attractions along the route, officially named Extraterrestrial Highway following numerous reports of alien sightings, and since Area 51 is located just off the road. The still-operational (and top secret) Air Force facility is strictly off-limits, though.

Instead, stop at E.T. Fresh Jerky to stock up on snacks for the road while checking out the alien murals plastered on the building, and be sure to spend some time at the Alien Research Center. You can’t miss it, thanks to the lofty alien statue outside, and it’s a fun spot for souvenir shopping and learning about the otherworldly associations of the route. For an Alien Burger or even an overnight stay, Little A’Le'Inn is a delight.

These are the best alien-hunting spots around the world

Pacific Coast Highway, California

This classic cruise along California’s impossibly beautiful coastline is perfect for pretty much anyone, and that includes families – especially those with slightly older kids who might appreciate the scenery. Even toddlers will have fun playing in the sand, splashing in the waves and staring, saucer-eyed, up at some of the world’s tallest trees in forested parks studded with coastal redwoods. The Pacific Coast Highway, or Highway 1, officially starts in Dana Point in the south and stretches for around 660 miles (1,062km) up to Leggett in Mendocino County, north of San Francisco.

Following the entire route is highly recommended (even if it does take a whole day), because every inch is gorgeous, though of course you can pick a portion if you’re short on time (or the kids are short on patience). Highlights include pretty Santa Barbara, Morro Bay (look out for otters floating on their backs), the Madonna Inn – a pink palace of a hotel just outside San Luis Obispo – and Big Sur, home to arguably the route’s most jaw-dropping scenery. Its soaring cliffs and honey-hued beaches should keep everyone quiet, at least for a minute or two.

These are the ultimate stops on the Pacific Coast Highway

Olympic Peninsula Loop, Washington

Olympic National Park is a dream destination for nature-loving families and the only thing better than visiting the wilderness is a road trip exploring its diverse landscapes. The Peninsula Loop edges the park for around 300 miles (483km), and you’ll want plenty of time to hike, camp or just gawp at the scenery, from glacier-capped mountains to sandy, often secluded coves.

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Part of Highway 101, it could be done in a day, but allow at least a week to take advantage of detours, from hiking trails to rainforest walks (the whole loop around the park is pictured). One of the prettiest pockets is Hoh Rain Forest, whose old-growth trees are cloaked with emerald moss. Adventurous families should set up camp there – it’s like being in a fairy tale.

Scenic Byway 12, Utah

With otherworldly landscapes that evoke any number of sci-fi films or perhaps the planet Mars, Scenic Byway 12 crams in much of what Utah is famous for: rust-red rocks, arches, hoodoos and slot canyons. There’s a lot to explore, whether kids are interested in learning about the fascinating geology or just want to skip through wavy rock structures and enjoy incredible places like the fossil-filled Escalante Petrified Forest.

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The route unfurls for just under 123 miles (198km) and the surroundings are eye-popping at every turn – this is why it'll take you longer than the standard two hours, 45 minutes. Must-stops include the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, where sandstone cliffs soar like rainbows above narrow slot canyons and abandoned movie sets. The finish point is the town of Torrey, near Capitol Reef National Park. Allow extra time to explore the latter, whose red rocks tower above patches of alpine forest.

Tempted? This is our guide to southern Utah

Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina and Virginia

Another classic road trip route, Blue Ridge Parkway is embarrassingly rich in natural beauty and wonders. Spanning two states and around 470 miles (756km), it’s easily doable over a week even with all the stops you’re bound to make, because the road, which sprawls from Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, offers plenty to see and do. It’s also easy to follow, which means fewer opportunities to get lost and, in turn, fewer arguments.

If disagreements should occur, gazing across the fog-cloaked Appalachian Highlands and following trails through the forests should quickly stop them. The route is also home to family-friendly wineries (keeping the adults happy) and the brilliantly quirky Craggy Gardens, known for its rhododendrons and twisting trees. Other wild and wonderful stops include Linville Falls, a three-tiered cascade in North Carolina and an easy hike from the Parkway.

Lake Michigan Circle Tour, various states

Sloshing its way into Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois and Indiana, Lake Michigan serves up some glorious scenery – and it’s all accessible on a road trip following its shore. Each of the Great Lakes has a designated circle tour, with this one clocking up around 1,100 miles (1,770km). Non-stop, it would take you around 15 hours. But where's the fun in that? Spend a few days on this route and take older kids on an epic adventure or choose to travel a portion of the route, which has an ideal mix of outdoorsy fun and city attractions.

The southern part of the route is particularly packed with must-sees. Start in Manitowoc, Wisconsin and explore some of the state’s most exciting cities, including Milwaukee, before driving south to Chicago, whose art-filled parks and Navy Pier attractions are wonderfully family-friendly. The route (all of which is pictured) then takes you around the lakeshore and into Michigan, with dune-backed beaches, lighthouses and wilderness trails. Holland, home to windmills and, in May, the eye-popping Tulip Festival, is especially charming.

This is the best family-friendly attraction in your state

Highway 98, Florida

If happiness to your family means sand between toes and sunshine on faces, then this might just be your perfect road trip. Highway 98 also runs through Mississippi and Alabama, but for pure seaside joy, it doesn’t come better than the stretch that spans the width of Florida. It runs for around 670 miles (1,078km) from the Alabama state line at Perdido Bay all the way to Palm Beach (pictured), with portions that slice through forest and others that cruise close to the ocean.

The prettiest part hugs the slate-hued Gulf of Mexico on Florida’s southern coast between Pensacola and fishing town Apalachicola, and this was the original part of the road in 1933 before it was extended in both directions. It skims by Destin – whose boardwalk and seafood restaurants make it a perfect pitstop – and Seaside, where the 1998 Jim Carrey movie The Truman Show was filmed. Along the way are bays, overwater bridges and swathes of state forest. It'll take a few days to really enjoy this road trip, but you won't regret it.

These are Florida's most beautiful small towns and cities

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway, South Dakota

For families with younger kids and less time to spare, this Black Hills byway covers just 70 miles (113km) but is the perfect introduction to South Dakota’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s ideal if you’re looking to combine adventure with a little history, because the route – combining several interlacing highways for a twisty-turny journey – packs in plenty of both, with everything set against dramatic landscapes of craggy mountains and thick forest.

The drive will take you past two of the state’s – and the country’s – most significant monuments, Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse Memorial. One of the most dramatically beautiful parts of the drive is Needles Highway, which takes you through narrow tunnels and below towering granite pinnacles. The byway also cuts through Custer State Park, where buffalo graze the fields, so there are plenty of opportunities for a longer trip (without stops, it'll take around four hours, otherwise take a day to enjoy the full experience).

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Historic Route 6A, Massachusetts

There’s no ugly way to pass through Cape Cod, the peninsula that flexes into the ocean from the Massachusetts coastline. If you really want to get close to the water, though, you can’t beat Historic Route 6A, also known as Old King's Highway. The route runs for 62 miles (100km) by Cape Cod Bay, passing pale sandy beaches, lighthouses, salt marshes, cranberry bogs, historic towns and state parks.

The blend of coastal views, opportunities to get out on the water and wonderful scenery and architecture makes it a dream of a family trip. The highway officially disappears – merging into Route 6 – for a short section before reappearing for the final stretch to Provincetown, which will take under two hours. Once there, take another scenic drive with an off-road tour through the sand dunes, which are dotted with 1920s artists’ shacks.

Natchez Trace Parkway, various states

With no billboards and very little traffic, the Natchez Trace Parkway embodies the ideal of a classic American road trip: all open road and inspiring scenery, with a healthy dose of quirkiness thrown in. Put aside a few days to really enjoy this trip, as the route unfurls for 444 miles (715km) from Natchez, Mississippi, to just outside Nashville, Tennessee, taking in parts of Alabama on the way.

Check out the USA's best roadside attractions worth traveling to

It’s especially suited to families who love music, with an abundance of places to see artists perform throughout the Southern states. Other musical highlights include visiting Elvis’ birthplace in Tupelo and dancing in the honky-tonks of Nashville , which is an easy add-on at the end of your road trip. On the way, stop to stretch your legs with woodland wildlife walks and hikes to waterfalls.

If you love music, these American landmarks will hit all the right notes

High Road to Taos Scenic Byway, New Mexico

Both a High Road and a Low Road connect Taos and Santa Fe, with the former undoubtedly the most scenic option. This designated Scenic Byway is perfect for families seeking an outdoorsy adventure with a difference. There’s some incredible scenery and adobe architecture en route as the road weaves for around 75 miles (121km) through historic villages, opening up to epic views of the Jemez Mountains.

Spend at least an afternoon soaking up highlights which include Chimayó, a historic and picturesque village known for its weaving tradition and a 19th-century church, El Santuario de Chimayó. In Taos, explore cultural shrines like the Harwood Museum of Art and Taos Pueblo, an adobe settlement designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Though not as stunning as the High Road, the Low Road – tracing the edge of the Rio Grande into a slender canyon – is nevertheless rich in natural beauty and is worth driving if you’re returning to the start point.

Coastal Connection, Alabama

This designated scenic byway is an eye-opening introduction to the blazing beauty of Alabama’s coastline. The white sands of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are the perfect backdrop to a road trip designed for slowing down to enjoy the simple pleasures in life – and, hopefully, each other’s company. The route winds for around 130 miles (209km) to link up marshy wildlife preserves, dune-backed beaches, historic naval sites and seafood restaurants, so this trip will easily take two or three days.

Traveling from Grand Bay to Spanish Fort, the trip takes the long way round to cross Dauphin Island and pass through the imposing Fort Morgan, with opportunities to stop at parks and reserves with shrubby dunes and marshes. If you have a little more time, charming port city Mobile makes a convenient start and/or end to your trip. Be wowed by the Mardi Gras costumes on display at the Mobile Carnival Museum, or just stroll cobbled streets lined with antebellum architecture.

These are America's most scenic coastal drives

Overseas Highway, Florida

Epic ocean views are the highlight of this 113-mile (182km) route, which begins close to Miami and stretches out through the Florida Keys, from Key Largo down to the quirky island city of Key West. Memorable experiences abound, especially for families who love spending time in, on and around water. The road really does soar over the waves, and the views alone make the two-day (at least) trip worthwhile.

Uncovering Key West: 6 things to do in Florida's quirkiest city

Be sure to stop at Islamorada – home to colorful galleries, boutiques and a brewery – and don’t miss Bahia Honda State Park, whose clear, gentle waters are perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. Adults and kids alike will love unique experiences like visiting Marathon’s adorable and thought-provoking Turtle Hospital, while Key West – though known as a party town – is wonderfully family-friendly with shops, over-the-top desserts and a nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 7 best 3-day cruise itineraries for 2024.

Plan a long weekend getaway aboard a cruise for fun, scenery and entertainment.

The Best 3-Day Cruise Itineraries

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Hop aboard the Carnival Radiance for a short but fun-filled cruise weekend.

Whether you're short on vacation days or you only have a long weekend to spare, three-night cruises offer a fun and affordable way to get a change of scenery. These shorter sailings from the U.S. often amount to a weekend cruise and only depart from Florida and California for now. However, short cruises still let you dine and dance on board, enjoy world-class entertainment, and visit nearby destinations like Nassau in the Bahamas; Key West, Florida; or Ensenada, Mexico.

If you're looking for short cruises that pack a lot of good times into a weekend vacation, you should know that many cruise lines offer these trips, including Norwegian Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises. Read on to find out which short cruises we recommend, where they depart from, and everything you can see and do over the span of three incredible nights.

3-Day Cruises From Florida

Norwegian sky from miami.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Dates: Aug. 2 to 5, 2024

Departure port: Miami

Stops: Key West, Florida; Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $399 per person

This three-night cruise on Norwegian Sky departs from Miami in August 2024 with stops at two iconic tropical destinations. The vessel's first stop is Key West , where cruise passengers will have the day to visit the southernmost tip of the United States, book a snorkeling or kayaking tour, or bar hop along the world-famous Duval Street. From there, the cruise stops at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which is a private island paradise that's only for cruise passengers. Here, visitors can enjoy some beach time, plan a WaveRunner adventure or snorkel the clear waters to watch out for wildlife.

When not at port, passengers on Norwegian Sky can enjoy the ship's 10 dining options, onboard spa, casino at sea, and variety of pools and hot tubs. The Norwegian Cruise Line vessel even has a sushi bar and a Starbucks onboard, and it was completely renovated from top to bottom in 2019.

Book a Norwegian cruise on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

MSC Seashore from Port Canaveral

Conrad Schutt | Courtesy of MSC Cruises

Dates: Multiple dates in November and December 2024

Departure port: Port Canaveral, Florida (Orlando)

Stops: Nassau and Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, Bahamas

Starting price: $169 per person

This three-night cruise on MSC Seashore departs from Port Canaveral near Orlando and takes passengers to two tropical destinations in the nearby Bahamas . The first is the island of Nassau, which is known for its luxury resorts (including the exclusive Atlantis Paradise Island Bahamas), huge casinos and powder white sands. After that, guests can spend a second day at port at MSC Cruises ' private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. This island offers a perfect beach retreat for people who just want to relax, including several expansive white sand beaches with ample seating, an interior ocean lagoon for swimming, and beach bars and eateries dotted throughout.

MSC Seashore features huge pools, an onboard water park for kids, the expansive MSC Aurea Spa and 11 distinct dining venues for passengers to choose from. The ship also boasts the exclusive "ship within a ship" Yacht Club area, which offers the best of everything for discerning guests.

Find an MSC Cruises deal on GoToSea.

Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Dates: Ongoing in 2024

Departure port: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Stops: Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau, Bahamas

Starting price: $273 per person

This three-night cruise on Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Reflection departs from Fort Lauderdale and leaves for two days in the sunny Bahamas. The first stop gives guests a full day to enjoy at Perfect Day at CocoCay, a cruise line private island that's typically reserved for Royal Caribbean guests. This island paradise features an exclusive beach club, idyllic white sand beaches for swimming and floating, a water park, a zip line, and plenty of places to eat and drink all day. The next stop is Nassau: Visitors can dine and shop their way through the port area or book a fun day pass to the Baha Bay water park, which is located at resort Baha Mar and features waterslides, an expansive lazy river and incredible cuisine options right at the park.

Celebrity Reflection was recently refurbished in 2022. It features an incredible array of included dining options, eight specialty and exclusive dining establishments, and bars and lounges throughout the ship. The Retreat, a VIP ship-within-a-ship concept, is also offered on board for those who want an elevated cruising experience.

Explore Celebrity Cruises on GoToSea.

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Disney Dream from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

Dates: Nov. 6 to 9, 2024

Stops: Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point and Disney Castaway Cay, Bahamas

Starting price: $1,973 per stateroom

This three-night Bahamian cruise on Disney Dream stops at two exclusive destinations in the Bahamas – Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point, then Disney Castaway Cay. The first stop offers incredible beaches with play areas and crystal-clear water for swimming, as well as the Bahamian Arts and Culture Pavilion for families who want to learn something about the local culture on vacation. At Disney Castaway Cay, families can relax the day away on white sand beaches, go biking or kayaking, ride two waterslides, and more. Both destinations even have adults-only beach areas for cruisers who are traveling kid-free.

Disney Dream holds a maximum of 4,000 passengers and has everything you would expect on an exclusive Disney Cruise Line vessel, including kids and family areas, adults-only dining options and pools, and two large theaters. The ship also has several supervised kids clubs as well as dedicated clubs for teenagers and tweens .

Read: The Top Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Liberty of the Seas from Fort Lauderdale

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Stops: Nassau and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Bahamas

Starting price: $263 per person

Royal Caribbean International also boasts a Bahamas cruise from Fort Lauderdale that stops in Nassau and at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. In Nassau, cruisers get the chance to explore one of the most popular cruise ports throughout the Caribbean, where you can book an excursion to a local beach, plan a snorkeling adventure or play in one of the two biggest casinos throughout the region at Atlantis or Baha Mar. At Perfect Day at CocoCay, families can stay active with waterslides, book a kayaking tour or ride a hot air balloon up to 450 feet in the air.

Liberty of the Seas is also an ideal ship for families thanks to fun features like a huge onboard water park with slides, an ice skating rink with shows and the Broadway at Sea theater. The Royal Caribbean vessel also has nearly a dozen different dining venues, including Cupcake Cupboard, Johnny Rockets, a pizza kitchen and an old-world Italian eatery called Giovanni's Table.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

3-Day Cruises From California

Navigator of the seas from los angeles.

Dates: Throughout 2024

Departure port: Los Angeles

Stops: Ensenada, Mexico

Starting price: $282 per person

Royal Caribbean offers a three-night West Coast adventure on Navigator of the Seas that includes a fun day at sea and a full-day stop in Ensenada, Mexico. This Mexican destination is known for the many activities that can be enjoyed along its rugged shores, which can include leisurely days at nearby Estero and Mona Lisa beaches, hiking experiences, exploration of Baja California's wine region, whale watching and more.

Dates for this sailing are offered throughout 2024, and the ship itself has plenty to keep passengers enthralled while at sea. For example, Navigator of the Seas features the longest waterslide at sea, enlarged pool deck areas for relaxation, ice skating shows and shopping – not to mention Broadway-style shows with dancers, acrobats and singers. There are also 12 unique dining options onboard, including Starbucks, Jamie's Italian by Jamie Oliver and Johnny Rockets.

Carnival Radiance from Los Angeles

Dates: Jan. 26 to 29 and Sept. 24 to 27, 2024

Departure port: Long Beach (Los Angeles)

Starting price: $244 per person

Carnival Radiance also embarks on three-night journeys to Mexico from Los Angeles throughout the year, including in January and September 2024. This Carnival Cruise Line itinerary includes a fun day at sea and a stop in Ensenada, Mexico, where passengers can plan a sightseeing trip, nosh on the unique Baja cuisine the area is known for, shop for silver jewelry and other keepsakes, or spend the day relaxing on the beach.

Carnival Radiance itself serves as the perfect floating vessel for this fun weekend vacation, with onboard amenities that span the Cloud 9 Spa and WaterWorks water park with slides to a comedy club and special clubs for kids and teens. The ship also boasts an adults-only solarium and 10 different bars to choose from.

Book a Carnival cruise on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a professional travel writer and cruise expert who has covered family travel and cruises for more than a decade. She has cruised more than 40 times across most of the major cruise lines in destinations throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to curate the itineraries for this article.

You might also be interested in:

• Cruise Packing List
• Beach Packing List
• Cruise Drink Packages: Your Options by Cruise Line
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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