fun trip for couples

31 of the Most Romantic Getaways in the USA (Couples’ Vacation Ideas!)

From beaches to mountaintops, from iconic cities to small towns, from wineries to lakeshores, there is no shortage of romantic getaways in the USA.

As much as we love traveling abroad, the plethora of romantic escapes in the United States also leaves us with insatiable wanderlust–and with every road trip to visit family or weekend getaway, we try to cross yet another spot off of our long wish list.

Planning a romantic vacation within the United States?

We’ve teamed up with a couple of dozen other travel bloggers to round up some of the most romantic trips in America for couples, from tiny towns to iconic beaches.

Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, an anniversary getaway, a Valentine’s Day celebration, or even just a quick weekend away with your favorite person, this guide to USA trips for couples is for you.

If your list of romantic getaways in the USA isn’t a mile long already, it’s about to be.

Table of Contents

USA Romantic Getaways in the Northeast

Romantic trips for couples in the south, romantic usa getaways in the west, more romantic places in the us.

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From Yulia of That’s What She Had

For me, the perfect couples’ trip in the US is having the opportunity to walk with my beloved around the city hand-in-hand.

Not many American cities give you this opportunity, but Boston does which makes it an ideal American romantic getaway.

Best of all, Boston has a harbor! You can enjoy a dinner of freshly caught lobsters at sunset and then walk by the waterfront.

Does this sound good? Well, here are a few more ideas about how to spend time with your significant other in Boston.

Have a dinner at the Omni Parker House Restaurant where, as the legend suggests, Kennedy proposed to Jackie Bouvier and where the original Boston cream pie was created over a hundred years ago.

Couples who share a love of cinema can check out the filming locations of their favorite movies.

For example, did you know that you can sit on a bench in the Boston Public Garden where the characters of Matt Damon and Robin Williams sat in  Good Will Hunting ?

And while you are in the Public Garden, take a ride on a swan boat, one of Boston’s iconic attractions.

You can also stop by the bar where Will Hunting and his friends had a beer after work in the same movie.

Other romantic things to do in Boston include visiting the beautiful Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, strolling along the Harborwalk, and even enjoying a sunset cruise overlooking the city .

Consider heading to a show in the theatre district, or heading to the North End to enjoy Italian-American food and beautiful architecture.

Where to Stay in Boston

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

Saranac Lake

From Danila of Travelling Dany

Saranac Lake is a cute city nestled among 46 High Peaks, Upstate New York.

If you are planning a road trip to the Adirondacks National Park , you can reach it by driving for about two hours from the Big Apple.

The difference between NYC and the amazing forest is striking: it feels unreal that you’re still driving in New York State!

A massive clock tower welcomes visitors to this quaint little town, full of flowers and smiling faces.

Its main street is the perfect spot where you can walk hand in hand at night, with your significant other, crossing wooden bridges, and admiring historical buildings.

Saranac Lake, one of the most beautiful – and less touristy – towns in the Adirondacks, is absolutely breathtaking in the fall: foliage in this area lasts longer than in any other part of the States!

If your beloved one is a hiking addict, you definitely should try one of the trails starting from Saranac Lake.

The difficulty goes from easy to moderately hard and the forests are full of deer and squirrels!

The perfect spot to spend a romantic vacation in Saranac Lake is the Ampersand Bay Resort.

Wooden cabins on the shores of Lower Saranac Lake become romantic love nests where you can spend your evenings enjoying the jacuzzi or drinking hot cocoa next to the fireplace.

Because Saranac Lake is one of those lovely towns where everyone knows each other, and the food scene reminds you of the old times, you won’t have any problem at all in finding the best foodie spots.

One of my favorite breakfast places in town is Origin Coffee: they bake homemade muffins every morning!

The perfect restaurant for dinner is Blue Moon Café , owned by an Italian-American couple who loves to cook and chat with their guests.

Be prepared to be treated with the best food: from the large servings alone you can definitely tell their Italian heritage!

Where to Stay in Saranac Lake

• Hotel Saranac: This historic hotel was built in 1927 and has a classic stately home feel. There is a great bar and restaurant and most rooms have views of the lake
• Franklin Manor: Another historic building perfect for your trip to Saranac Lake. Rooms are huge and feel like a luxury bedroom you may dream of at home. It is also privately owned with that personal touch.

No, not  Portland, Oregon –the lighthouse-and-lobster-loving Portland, Maine!

Known for its charming Portland Head Light, its warehouse-district-turned-trendy-neighborhood of Old Port, and many, many breweries, Portland is an absolute blast to visit.

If you and your partner are looking for a city vacation that also offers beautiful nature and a very relaxed, laid-back vibe, Portland is a fantastic choice.

While you’re there, be sure to take a quick ferry over to nearby Peaks Island for a day, tour the beautiful Victoria Mansion, and enjoy (at least) one afternoon on a sailboat.

Of course, no trip to Portland is complete without snapping photos at the Portland Head Light, but Bug Light deserves a quick look, too!

Portland is also less than an hour by car from famous Kennebunkport–so if you want to mix a famous small town into this romantic getaway in the USA, you absolutely can.

Where to Stay in Portland

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

New York City

From James of Travel Collecting

As one of the most famous and electric cities in the world, there’s no doubt that an action-packed weekend in NYC (or even a full honeymoon trip–both are popular) makes for an excellent romantic trip in the US for couples of all kinds.

Whether you and your partner are museum hoppers, foodies, park lovers, viewpoint seekers, or all of the above, New York City has plenty to offer!

For something memorable, start the day by sharing one of the enormous pastry baskets when you have breakfast at the famous Balthazar in SoHo .

This beautiful restaurant with enormous antique mirrors, red leather banquettes, and wait staff in long white aprons will transport you to another century.

For something uniquely New York, wander hand in hand through Central Park, then in summer rent a boat at the Loeb Boathouse and row around the lake before enjoying a romantic lunch at the lakeside restaurant.

In winter, go ice-skating at Wollman’s Rink before having lunch at the nearby Palm Court restaurant at the famous Plaza Hotel.

Hop over to the  Metropolitan Museum of Art for a coffee in their café overlooking the American wing or on the rooftop terrace overlooking Central Park in summer

If you’re lucky enough to have your trip for 2 overlap with New York at Christmas , don’t miss the chance to stroll hand-in-hand past the city’s legendary decor.

Of course, no romantic getaway in NYC is complete without admiring the skyline from above at a classic spot like the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock , or from a trendy angle like what you’ll find at Summit One Vanderbilt !

If you are downtown, you can rent Citibikes and cycle along the Hudson River then stop for lunch and a glass of wine at  Battery Gardens  restaurant with wonderful views of the harbor sparkling in the sunshine and the Statue of Liberty in the distance.

Don’t miss the opportunity to take in a Broadway show with your partner, either!

Finish a perfect romantic getaway with a cocktail at the Aviary bar on the 35 th  floor of the Mandarin Oriental hotel where the views of midtown are to die for, or at Park in the Meat Packing District for a downtown experience in their covered garden or fireside bar.

Where to Stay in New York

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

Tiny, beautiful Nantucket is perfect for couples looking for a small island boasting both an adorable town center and sparkling beaches for their romantic getaway.

Located off the coast of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Nantucket is a classic summer retreat and one of the  best places to visit in New England .

While you’re there, consider renting bikes to explore the island together, tracking down all three of Nantucket’s beautiful lighthouses, visiting the Whaling Museum, and of course, enjoying a lobster roll or two!

The absolute best time of year to visit Nantucket is during the island’s famous hydrangea season, which typically runs from late June through most of July (though of course, it can vary).

A 4th of July trip to Nantucket, while certainly a splurge, is easily one of the most romantic US getaway ideas!

Plan a photo shoot with the beautiful flowers and idyllic New England architecture to preserve your memories!

Where to Stay in Nantucket

• Seven Sea Street Inn: This cute quiet hotel in the historic district is a short walk to Harbor Beach and offers bike rentals for exploring the area.
• Jared Coffin House: A stunning historic hotel filled with antiques and classic details. You will feel you have stepped back in time!

Niagara Falls

Dial it back a few decades, and Niagara Falls was  the  place to take a honeymoon in North America–and while it’s less iconic on the honeymoon scene now, it’s still a wildly romantic place!

While this blog post does cover romantic destinations in the USA specifically, no discussion of couples vacations to Niagara Falls is complete without pointing out that while the portion of Niagara Falls located in the States is lovely, it’s well worth bringing your passport along and crossing the border into Canada as part of your trip!

However, with boat tours, hiking trails, Old Fort Niagara, and more available on the New York side, it’s safe to say that even a strictly American couples trip to Niagara Falls has plenty of romance to offer.

Don’t miss the Cave of the Winds Experience that will take you right up to Bridal Veils Falls while you’re there!

Prepare to get soaked–but that’s an excellent excuse to relax in a hot tub with a glass of wine, great views, and your partner afterward.

Where to Stay in Niagara Falls

• Stateside – The Butler House: For classic romantic accommodation this is the one to go with in the American side of Niagara Falls. Built in 1910 is the historic craftsman style, this is a cute and cozy hotel for your trip. Location wise you also can’t beat this, just 10 minutes walk from the American Falls and a mile from the International Rainbow Bridge to Canada.
• Canada – Hilton Fallsview: While not the greatest Hilton experience you might expect, but definitely worth it for the views. Expect the usual Hilton features of a good quality hotel but look over the as-close-as-you-could-get views of Niagara Falls.

Beautiful beaches, a unique culture that’s all its own, fabulous architecture, and–of course–plenty of sunshine: you’ll find all of this and far more by heading all the way south to Miami for your couples’ weekend getaway!

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

Don’t limit yourself just to the beach, though!

Be sure to explore Miami Beach’s impressive Art Deco architecture, eat your way through Little Havana, admire street art in Wynwood, and check out the views from Biscayne Bay.

For a unique perspective on the city, consider  taking a boat cruise –we were very impressed with how much we enjoyed ours!

For couples who hope to experience some unique nature in south Florida during their trip, consider also planning on a day trip to nearby Everglades National Park.

Or, if you have a few more days (say, an  extra  long weekend trip), you can road trip all the way to Key West, the southernmost point of the USA (more on that option below!).

Where to Stay in Miami

• The Betsy Hotel : Rooftop pool, marble bathrooms with deep tubs, a stylish cocktail lounge and spacious private balconies, this hotel is a great choice for your romantic trip.
• Henrosa Hotel: This stylish hotel has amazing suites available with dressing rooms and seating areas, feel like a celebrity with all the luxe add-ons.

New Orleans

From Margie of DQ Family Travel

The ever-unique and dynamic city of New Orleans, where music spills out from every corner and the scent of food lingers in the air 24 hours a day, is absolutely one of the most romantic cities in the USA.

NOLA has such unique architecture that walking through the streets and seeing the French and Spanish influence that certain parts of the French Quarter can feel like you’re in a European city.

Due to that European influence and the Creole culture that developed, the food in New Orleans is one of a kind.

Among the best things to do is walk through the Garden District or the French Quarter and sit down to eat some beignets, crawfish, jambalaya, fried oysters, or a shrimp po’boy.

Unsurprisingly, New Orleans is home to one of the top food scenes in the country.

The arts scene is also thriving in New Orleans as well. Walking through many parts of the city, you can find local painters and crafters selling their work, as well as plenty of beautiful bookstores .

The many public fountains and squares give the city a charming feel and people-watching can be quite interesting.

Since New Orleans is located at the mouth of the Mississippi River, you can enjoy a peaceful jazz cruise on the river as part of your trip!

At night, the city comes alive with street performers and sidewalk bars to enjoy a cocktail or two. Listening to a jazz band is a great idea while in New Orleans.

There is no shortage of music anywhere you go as restaurants are often playing some type of classic New Orleans jazz.

Overall, New Orleans is a fantastic city to enjoy with a loved one and stroll through the streets, eating, drinking, and enjoying its’ unique charm.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

• The Ritz-Carlton : This stunning luxury hotel is a perfect splurge close to Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. The onsite spa offers over 100 treatments. Rooms are as stunning as you would expect, with four-poster beds, soft furnishings, and all designer toiletries.
• Omni Royal Orleans: Located on the most fashionable corner, St. Louis at Royal, the hotel has received the 4-diamond luxury award for the past 27 years. This hotel is the ultimate luxury experience in a classic New Orleans building.

From Allison of Eternal Arrival

While Nashville is a popular option for friends’ trips and girls’ getaways because of the fun nightlife, a Nashville weekend getaway  is also a solid choice for US couples looking for a unique romantic trip.

Music-loving couples will enjoy the abundance of music-themed museums as well as nightlife options.

Stroll hand-in-hand through the Country Music Hall of Fame or visit the Johnny Cash Museum for a unique insight into the artistic genius who gave the world “Walk the Line” and “Ring of Fire.”

While the honky-tonks on Broadway are always a raucous good time, couples would be better suited with a romantic visit to the Grand Ole Opry, a thrice-weekly live concert and radio show.

It’s the longest-running radio broadcast in United States history and being part of it is great fun–be sure to take the tour backstage!

Other romantic things for couples to do include strolling the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, which has beautiful views over downtown Nashville.

Couples will also love strolling around Centennial Park with its replica of the Parthenon.

Patient Instagram husbands will endure being dragged to the Gulch, a vibrant district with tons of colorful walls and street art including the famous “Nashville wings.”

Finally, couples can stuff their face with delicious Nashville BBQ – two of my favorite spots are Acme Feed & Seed and Martin’s BBQ.

Whatever you do, though, be careful with Nashville’s famous hot chicken: the resulting stomachaches from trying chicken too far out of your comfort zone are far from romantic!

Where to Stay in Nashville

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

Without a doubt, Savannah is one of our favorite romantic getaways in the USA.

Dripping Spanish moss, Savannah’s 22 beautiful town squares, stunning antebellum architecture, and an epic food scene all contribute to making Savannah one of the most romantic cities in the USA.

During a weekend in Savannah with your beloved, be sure to stroll through the lovely Forsyth Park and down Jones Street (often called the most beautiful street in the USA!).

At night, give yourselves an excuse to hold each other tight on a ghost tour!

Art lovers can consider a visit to the Telfair Museum of Art or shopSCAD, the store run by the students of the well-known Savannah College of Art and Design, or browse the boutiques along Broughton Street.

Of course, no romantic trip to Savannah could be complete without at least one fantastic southern meal– Savannah’s restaurants are legendary in the south.

The Olde Pink House, The Grey, and Elizabeth of 37th are all popular romantic choices for a bit of a splurge, and Alligator Soul is a great option for more adventurous eaters.

For dessert, consider stopping by the famous Leopold’s Ice Cream, which has been a beloved Savannah tradition for nearly 100 years!

If ice cream isn’t your thing, consider a visit to one of Savannah’s charming coffee shops or to City Market instead–among other treats, City Market features candy stores selling pralines, one of the most well-known desserts in Savannah.

Where to Stay in Savannah

• The Marshall House: For your trip to Savannah you absolutely have to stay in one of the historic houses, this hotel is a perfect choice. Built in 1851 this is a staple part of Savannah’s history, rooms are decadent and cozy, and the hotel offers a nightly wine reception in the library and cocktails in the bar.
• Hampton Inn & Suites: Another wonderful hotel in Savannah’s historic district, this provides a modern refresh of a classic luxury hotel. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and a fabulous complimentary breakfast is served on the hotel terrace each morning.

From Halef & Michael of RTW Guys

Few other places in the country rival Key West for popular romantic getaways in the USA.

Key West is the land of “Southernmost”: Southernmost Highway, Southernmost Brewery, Southernmost Tattoos.

Understandable, as this is the southmost point in the continental United States that you can reach without ever leaving your car!

Key West is located just 90 miles from Havana, Cuba and, despite the touristy reputation, it can be an exotic and romantic destination for couples.

The island has no shortage of exciting history and tourist attractions.

Some of the more famous things to do in Key West include the Southernmost Point Buoy and Historic Marker, Duval Street, Ernest Hemingway House and Museum, The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and the Key West Lighthouse.

Be sure to stop by the lighthouse for a classic Key West photo op with your partner!

Head out to Malloy Square for a romantic sunset.It is a popular place to view street performances, all while sipping coconut or pineapple drinks and snacking on fried conch bites.

And of course, no trip to Key West would be complete without trying a slice of Key Lime Pie (you might not want to bother splitting one, though–better for the relationship to each get your own!).

You can have a romantic moment with your loved one here.

Even though there are often hundreds of other people here, magical things can still happen!

If you are looking for a day trip gateway from Key West, we highly recommend an excursion to  Dry Tortugas National Park . It is another romantic place to enjoy while you’re in Key West!

Where to Stay in Key West

• Sea Glass House: Stay in your own private holiday home just steps from the beach. There is also a pretty garden to relax in your own privacy.
• Parrot Key Hotel & Villas: This stunning hotel is a fabulous romantic option for your trip to Key West. Rooms are clean and bright with views over the gardens and the beach, and there is a lovely poolside bar and cafe.

From Michelle at The Wandering Queen

Charleston, South Carolina is one of the most romantic getaways in the USA.

The city is filled with southern charm, great food, colorful historic houses, gardens, parks, and much more, all perfect for exploring with your partner.

As one of the oldest cities in the south, Charleston is packed full of history–though much of it is unsurprisingly quite dark.

Taking a historic walking tour with your significant other is an absolute must.

Learning about the trials and tribulations the city endured over the years is not only educational but makes you appreciate its history even more.

The classic architecture takes you back in time, giving the city so much personality.

The lovely colors and architectural features make for great couples’ pictures–Rainbow Row is one of the most popular photo spots in Charleston , and it’s no surprise why.

One of the absolute best things to do in Charleston is to eat! The food is unbelievable and your days in Charleston should be food-centric.

Make sure to make reservations in advance if you want a great romantic dinner at well-known restaurants like FIG. Getting into the more popular restaurants can be difficult.

Of course, Charleston’s location near the beach is also a big draw for couples looking for romance: Sullivan’s Island, Folly Beach, and the Isle of Palms are all at your fingertips when visiting Charleston.

In the end, Charleston is a fun, charming city and is the perfect weekend getaway with your significant other.

Where to Stay in Charleston

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

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

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

Its location right next door to plenty of wonderful hikes in the Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, however, makes it a fabulous US weekend destination for couples who are outdoor enthusiasts, as well.

No matter what your interests are, try to make time during your trip to Asheville to drive a small piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway–especially if you’re visiting in the fall and can enjoy the changing colors.

Often considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States, it’s a romantic destination not to be missed.

For a beautiful stop on the Blue Ridge Parkway close to Asheville, hike the short trail to Craggy Pinnacle for sweeping 360-degree views of the mountains and an opportunity for some incredible couples photos.

Where to Stay in Asheville

• Cedar Crest Inn: This pink 1891 mansion house is a perfect place to base yourself in Asheville. Packed with historical details and stunning architecture you can imagine it as a mini Biltmore.
• Aloft: If your trip includes your furry family member this is the most pet friendly place you would wish for. Dogs and cats stay for free and are provided with beds, treats and facilities, exactly as human guests would expect from a luxury hotel stay. Almost no area of the hotel is off limits to your pup, and the hotel also partners with a local shelter offering homes for dogs until they are adopted.

North Carolina Coast

Whether you’re visiting classic Outer Banks beach towns like Duck, Kitty Hawk, and Nags Head, heading a bit further south to the Crystal Coast to visit places like Beaufort and Atlantic Beach , or even heading all the way south to Wilmington, there’s no doubt that the North Carolina Coast offers an incredible chance for romance.

Lined with small beach towns, historic lighthouses, excellent seafood, and even unique attractions like wild horses that live on deserted barrier islands, the North Carolina Coast is an unbeatable destination for a southern USA romantic getaway.

… And you can enjoy all that the NC coast has to offer without the prices of popular places further south in Florida or further north in New England.

While you’re there, consider driving at least part of the stunning Outer Banks Scenic Byway, climbing to the top of a lighthouse or two for an incredible view (we’re partial to Cape Lookout ourselves), enjoying the sunset from a boat, and spending plenty of time with your toes in the sand.

If you start your trip to the North Carolina Coast in Raleigh, you may be able to add other cool stops in Eastern NC as you make your way to the beach!

Consider visiting New Bern for its historic downtown, or Kinston to eat at Vivian Howard’s celebrated Chef and the Farmer restaurant (be sure to make reservations well in advance!) before making your way to the coast.

Where to Stay on the North Carolina Coast

• Outer Banks Beach Club: Better book fast because this hotel in Kill Devil Hills sells out fast! The resort is set up as residence style apartments for a homey summer vacation with access to indoor and outdoor pools and views of the ocean.
• Wild Horse Inn: Situated in Corolla this pretty Inn provides comfortable accommodation with a garden and private parking. It is also walking distance to beaches.

Carmel-by-the-Sea

From Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles

If you are looking for a romantic getaway in California , consider a weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

A charming little village in the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a variety of activities in a really adorable setting.

Start your weekend with a romantic glass of wine and some fruit and cheese on the beautiful Carmel Beach, where you can sit on the sand and watch the sunset over the water.

Then, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of many world-class restaurants in the village before retiring to your room at one of the cute inns or bed-and-breakfasts in the village.

Carmel-by-the-Sea does not allow big chain hotels, so it’s dotted with really cozy places to stay, complete with window boxes stuffed with flowers.

The next morning, enjoy a late breakfast, followed by a walk around the one square mile of Carmel Village.

You will see wonderful art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutique stores, and lots of fun food and wine places.

With its secret passageways, lovely courtyards, and great Spanish architecture, the village is perfect for strolling arm-in-arm. Then do a lazy laid-back brunch–a Carmel-by-the-Sea must!

In the afternoon, drive out to Point Lobos State Reserve, a stunning oceanside park a scant few minutes from the village.

Walk an oceanside trail, with the sea breeze ruffling your hair, and admire the wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean.

In the spring and summer, you’ll see tons of wildflowers. There are always seabirds to watch.

On your way back, step into the Carmel Mission, one of the most beautiful missions built by the Spanish missionaries. Back in the village, enjoy some wine tasting before dinner.

On your final morning in Carmel-by-the-Sea, take a walk around the village to look for the fairytale cottages scattered about.

They are charming, historic, and incredibly fun to find.

Or, consider booking a pampering treatment at the luxurious spa at the Bernardus Lodge in nearby Carmel Valley, or driving out to Big Sur and back on the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway.

End your stay with brunch in the village before heading back home, refreshed and recharged!

Where to Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea

• Hofsas House Hotel: This quirky hotel is a great choice in Carmel-by-the-Sea, relax in the outdoor pool or stroll to the center of town, just 5 minutes walk away.
• Tradewinds Carmel: A boutique hotel in the town center but infused with Asian fusion decor, custom organic toiletries, and Japanese-style bathrobes. Some guest rooms also have ocean views and fireplaces.

From Dan and Michelle of Honeymoon Always

Located just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City, Park City, Utah, is an incredibly romantic destination in the USA. 

The area is best known for its mountain resorts with amazing slopes for skiing, snowboarding, and all types of winter activities.

Depending on your expectations for romance, Park City has it all.

You can experience adventures during the day, creating memories to look back on for years to come by going on a snowmobile ride or taking a real bobsled ride at the Olympic Park. 

After your adrenaline has been pumping, unwind and fill yourself back up at one of the many delicious restaurants. 

The crisp winter air provides for a wonderfully romantic time together. You can enjoy some time resting your sore muscles in a hot tub or cuddling together around a fireplace.

Another great thing to do is to try out one of the spas in the area after a day of skiing to avoid tense muscles and to enjoy your time together.

Surrounded by snow-covered mountains, you don’t really have to try hard to create a romantic atmosphere.

Just find a place to sit around a fire and look around at the beautiful scenery , and you already have all the makings of a romantic escape with your beloved.

On the chance that you make your way to Park City when it is not wintertime, there is still plenty to do.

You can find a lake to go stand-up paddle boarding or fishing, go ziplining, enjoy a breathtaking hot air balloon ride or go on one of the alpine slides and coasters.

Where to Stay in Park City

• Park City Peaks: With Wasatch Mountains views and just 5 minutes drive to Park City Mountain this is a great location for a romantic trip
• The Chateaux Deer Valley: Another amazing location is this hotel which is adjacent to Deer Valley Ski Resort. The hotel is lodge-style with lots of fireplaces to cozy up nearby.

Known as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, the charming small town of  Estes Park  makes for an incredible couples’ vacation in the USA.

With its beautiful downtown (don’t miss a chance to stroll along the riverwalk!), its huge prevalence of elk living in and around the town, its beautiful lake, and the world-class nature of nearby hiking opportunities, Estes Park belongs on any bucket list.

It’s also perfect for couples looking for a mix of attractions: while the outdoors is most prominent, Estes Park itself also has plenty of restaurants and shops to enjoy!

While in Estes Park, be sure to stop by the historic Park Theatre, consider a whitewater rafting trip, go for a scenic drive, and check out one (or more) of the town’s local breweries.

You can also pay a visit to the beautiful and historic Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s  The Shining (in other words, it offers a great excuse to cling to each other in the darkened halls at night).

Even if you don’t check in, consider stopping by the gorgeous Whiskey Bar & Lounge for a taste of the ambiance (but the hotel gets great reviews and makes for a great base in town, too).

And, of course, the main attraction lies just outside of town: no trip to Estes Park is complete without plenty of time spent in Rocky Mountain National Park!

Where to Stay in Estes Park

• Mountain Shadows Resort: Get into the rustic feel with these incredible cottages in Estes Park. Cottages have private terraces, hot tubs and wooden 4-poster beds.
• Hotel Estes : These fabulous pet friendly cabins are close to Rocky Mountain National Park with mountain views, great facilities such as an outdoor swimming pool for those warmer months.

San Francisco

From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and definitely one of the most romantic getaways in America!

The first thing you’ll notice is San Francisco’s lovely cool weather (just be sure to avoid the June Gloom–the best “summer” month in San Francisco is actually September).

Throughout much of the year, the air is so crisp it fills up the heart with love and happiness.

There is so much to love about San Francisco, it’s a challenge to list a few of the most romantic aspects of the city.

Of course, most couples on a romantic getaway will want to start with San Francisco’s most famous landmark: enjoy the many vantage points and views of the world’s most recognizable bridge, each offering its unique perspective.

For example, walk on the Golden Gate Bridge, picnic on Chrissy Field under the bridge, hike in Lands End state park, cruise on the Bay, walk around Treasure Island, or take a Segway Ride for many views of the bridge.

Not too far from the Golden Gate Bridge is the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts.

It’s so calming to walk and admire the views or lie on the grassy hills, watch the swans, and have a picnic.

In the midst of the busy city of San Francisco are the enormous Golden Gate Park and its many attractions such as the Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco Botanical Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, San Francisco Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum, Lloyd Lake, the Dutch Windmill and the beach on the Pacific Ocean.

One could spend hours relaxing at any of these beautiful sites, outdoors or indoors.

For the art lover in everyone, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a great way to spend a half or a full day enjoying modern artistic creations, and for a different kind of art appreciation, consider a memorable performance at the San Francisco Symphony.

Last but not least, no romantic getaway to San Francisco could be complete without talking about its food.

San Francisco has amazing restaurants in every cuisine. Even for vegans, there are several incredible restaurants and chefs that make magic happen.

Some favorites include the Shizen Japanese, Herbivore, Hakkasan, Aster, Slanted Door, and Ghirardelli Square for dessert.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

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

From Priyadarshini of Glorious Sunrise

Lake Tahoe is without any doubt a honeymooners’ paradise in all seasons.

Nestled in the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountains on the border between California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is famous for both its ski resorts and its beaches, making it a fantastic year-round romantic US trip idea.

Watersports, snowmobiling, gondola rides, hiking around incredible trails like Tahoe Rim trail, balloon rides, cruises, skiing, and much more can be appreciated in this amazing spot.

Of course, its namesake lake is the most beautiful lake we have ever seen with clear clean waters. It is known to be the largest alpine lake in North America.

Lake Tahoe is divided into two parts, north and south, and both sections of Lake Tahoe are equally mesmerizing.

North Lake Tahoe is home to Donner Summit Bridge, Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, Sand Harbor State Park, Squaw Valley tram, museums, and more state parks.

South Lake Tahoe has Pope beach, Zephyr Cove, Emerald Bay, Cave Rock State Park, Heavenly Gondola, Taylor Creek Visitor Cente, and many more attractions.

Do not miss doing the Heavenly Gondola ride and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding pine trees rising majestically into the sky.

Lower Eagle Falls is another place you should not skip.

This spot is not just about the gorgeous falls, but the unbelievable scenery you can enjoy when you climb to the top.

You can see the lake and beyond from here and you will simply want to stay there forever.

Where to Stay in Lake Tahoe

• Tahoe Lakeshore Lodge: Located right on the edge of Lake Tahoe this is the perfect summer resort. There are also private beach concerts in the summer. The lodge also has an on site spa and lake views from the rooms.
• Black Bear Lodge: Close to the lake and the gondola this is a charming option for your romantic trip. Each room also has a fireplace for colder months.

Oregon Coast

From Sarah of Discover the Pacific Northwest

With an abundance of rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and mountains plus dozens of quaint towns and hundreds of wineries, Oregon is a state made for romance.

However, the most popular destination for a US romantic getaway in the state has to be the beautiful Oregon Coast .

Oregon has 363 miles of stunning coastline to explore full of fabulous beaches, scenic harbors, iconic lighthouses, pristine parks, and soaring sand dunes.

There are also dozens of charming seaside towns offering a romantic home base from which to explore.

Historic Astoria is the closest coastal town to Portland and offers plenty to do including an old waterfront trolley, a thriving arts community, and lots of great restaurants and craft breweries.

Seaside is a true beach town with a fabulous boardwalk and nearby Cannon Beach boasts the famous “Haystack Rock.”

Newport is probably the best-known and most popular coastal town for good reason as it has an iconic main street full of great seafood restaurants and boutique shops plus a bustling fisherman’s wharf.

And this just gets you to the central coast, the list of lovely towns continues as you go further south.

Some of the top sights to see are Ecola State Park, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon Dunes Recreational Area, Three Capes Scenic Drive, and the Tillamook Cheese Factory to name just a few, and they all make incredible stops for USA romantic getaways.

Of course, a romantic coastal getaway is not complete without a seafood feast or two!

Our top tip is to stop at Kelly’s Brighton Marina to catch some crab and clams then pick up wood for a beach fire to cook it up and watch the sunset.

Where to Stay on the Oregon Coast

• Cannon Beach – Ecola Creek Lodge: A great mix of motel and self catering, this lodge is close to Ecola State Park and offers free parking. There is a pretty deck to enjoy the summer sun.
• Tillamook – Tillamook Bay City: This is a great place to book into a yurt and enjoy the outdoors life for your stay. The yurts are cosy and surprisingly spacious, definitely worth trying for something different.

Catalina Island

From Megan of Bobo & Chichi

When you think of romantic places for a couples’ vacation, your mind might naturally gravitate toward islands–for very good reason!

Little do people realize that the US has its own romantic island getaways, including Catalina Island off the coast of southern California.

The tiny town of Avalon on Catalina Island is only 1 square mile and packed full of things to do for a romantic getaway with your lover.

Some of the best things to do in Avalon include kayaking through the harbor, ziplining with ocean views, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and an unforgettable movie theater in the beautifully restored Casino.

Get a private cabana at Descanso Beach Club where you can have drinks and food delivered to you right on the beach looking over the Pacific Ocean.

You and your partner can also take a romantic stroll to the botanical gardens and play a flirty game of mini-golf.

Besides being full of activities there’s also a great food and drink scene on Catalina Island.

The island really comes to life in the afternoon and at night when the day visitors leave and you feel like you have the town to yourself.

Consider staying in the gorgeous Mt Ada Bed and Breakfast owned by the Wrigley (yes, the gum family and former owner of Chicago Cubs) family overlooking the harbor and island

With people or not there’s just something so romantic about the tiny little streets full of colorful little cottages that make Catalina Island perfect for a romantic USA trip for couples.

Where to Stay in Avalon

• Hotel Atwater: This historic 1920s-designed hotel is just steps from the beach, rooms have huge windows overlooking the ocean.
• Pavilion Hotel: With lush tropical gardens and a lounge with cabana seats and fire pits, this is a fabulous beachside hotel in Avalon.

Pacific Coast Highway

From Deborah of Tag Along Travel

The iconic Pacific Coast Highway, with its sweeping views of the coastline, many adorable towns to visit, and stunning beaches to admire, is the perfect romantic trip in America for couples.

Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a honeymoon, or just enjoying the company of your beloved, the famous PCH has lots to offer!

With far more potential stops for views, hikes, shopping, dining, beach access, and more than could reasonably be covered in one trip, the Pacific Coast Highway is a romantic getaway that can be enjoyed again and again.

Strolling along Huntington Beach Pier, admiring the views from the famous La Jolla, relaxing near the water in Malibu, touring the Hearst Castle, and touring taking a short detour to visit the whimsical Dutch-inspired town of Solvang are just a few of the many memorable places to visit along the PCH!

Mcway Falls and the Bixby Creek Bridge are absolute must-sees: as some of the best places to visit in California , couples photos here are a must!

Consider visiting Morrow Bay for delicious saltwater taffy while watching elephant seals sunning themselves near the shore for a fun wildlife-plus-food stop.

The pace and picturesque California setting are a terrific backdrop for celebrating a relationship and taking time to connect with your favorite person.

Designed by Alex and Phyllis Madonna in the late 50s, the resort includes 110 unique theme rooms, the pinkest and most sparkly retro dining room, and a dreamy pool and spa, all surrounded by gorgeous gardens.

Starting and/or ending your trip in the bigger cities along the PCH like San Francisco , Los Angeles, or San Diego is a fantastic way to add a city break to this incredible romantic vacation in the US.

Where to Stay on the Pacific Coast Highway

• The renowned   Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo, with its famously over-the-top pink decor, is a memorable place to stay for an anniversary, honeymoon, or another special occasion.

Willamette Valley

From Taima of Poor in a Private Plane

Cozying up next to the fireplace with that special someone, while sipping on a glass of one of the world’s best Pinot Noirs.

Sounds like paradise, right?

Paradise exists and it is located in the Willamette Valley in Oregon.

Located just outside of Portland, the Willamette Valley is a great weekend destination to spend with that special someone.

McMinnville, OR which is located in the heart of the Willamette Valley is the perfect home base.

With several wine-tasting rooms to walk to and great restaurants, you will not be disappointed. 

If you are looking to explore some of the best wines in the Pacific Northwest there are several wineries and vineyards just a short drive away.

Start your day with breakfast at Community Plate located in McMinnville followed by a stroll through town.

From there, make your way to Stoller Family Estates where you can enjoy your tasting flights while admiring views of Mt. Hood. 

If you are looking for even more views check out White Rose Estate. On a clear day, you can get a view of all three peaks which is amazing.

After getting your fill of the beautiful views, Indulge in a vertical tasting at Adelsheim.

If you are hungry now is a good time to check out Red Hill Market for a yummy lunch. After lunch, try a sparkling wine-tasting flight at Argyle Winery.

Afterward, end your day with a meal at Gem Creole located in McMinnville.

And if you still have something left in you enjoy a nightcap on the rooftop at McMenamins Hotel Oregon–the perfect end to an American romantic getaway with your sweetheart.

Where to Stay in McMinnville

• Atticus Hotel: This stunning hotel is a great place to base yourself, rooms are comfortable and spacious, and the hotel offers bike rental, perfect for exploring the area.
• Johnson Street Studio: Stay in a self-contained studio for home-from-home vibes. It is airy and well decorated with big windows overlooking McMinnville.

From Corinne of Reflections Enroute

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in the USA, look no further than Seattle!

It’s so easy to find romantic spots and activities in Seattle.

To start, take your honey and explore the world-famous Pike Place Market where the fish are flying and the vendors tout the freshest and best the city has to offer.

Around the corner is the very first Starbucks, so grab one of their traditional brown mugs and warm up in this cozy spot.

Afterward, head to the Space Needle where the views are spectacular, but you can walk on a revolving glass floor or bungee jump from up top as well.

Nothing is more romantic than getting your adrenaline pumping by taking a death-defying jump with your loved one!

Don’t forget to have lunch and visit one of the museums as well.  The Pop Culture Museum and the Chihuly Garden are both memorable and popular.

If you still have some time, head over to Gas Works Park and take some photos, maybe rent a kayak, or even fly a kite.

Then towards evening, you will want to get over to the Freemont, the hipster part of the city, and eat dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants like the RockCreek Seafood and Spirits.

Finally, you will want to go to the Mox Boarding House Game Store and Bar.

There you and your beau can pick out a game and either alone or with some new friends play any board game in the house while sipping on cocktails.

Where to Stay in Seattle

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

From Gena at Gena’s Adventure

There is nothing better than surprising your significant one with a romantic getaway to Colorado!

And, though it’s not traditional, winter is still a perfect time to visit colorful Denver.

In winter, Denver is snowy, but not too cold, so you are able not only pay visits to mountains and enjoy spectacular views, long night walks under the streetlights of Larimer Square, snowy streets, and hot chocolate make it all worth it.

While you’re there, be sure to go ice skating hand-in-hand at Downtown River Rink followed by a hot chocolate together, try out couples snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park, and head up to Flagstaff Mountain to enjoy a gorgeous sunset with views of Denver.

Be sure to leave time in your itinerary for the romantic Royal Gorge Train!

Y ou can book a delicious dinner for two and make this one of the highlights of your romantic getaway .

Other must-have food experiences when visiting Denver include hitting up a wine tasting with fondue at Crú Food & Wine Bar to soak up their romantic vibes, getting a taste of Spain at The 9th Door Capitol Hill, and sharing a slice of famous Spring Fling cake at the best bakery in Denver (The Market at Larimer Square).

Don’t hesitate to surprise your significant one with a romantic getaway to Colorado in winter!

Whether it’s about winter activities, romantic dining, or unique experiences – this place has it all.

Want to expand your romantic trip beyond a city break?

Rocky Mountain National Park lies a tantalizingly close drive away!

Where to Stay in Denver

• Grand Hyatt Denver: With plenty of facilities to keep you occupied within the hotel, as well as being well located to explore Denver. Enjoy the swimming pool, spacious beds, stunning lobby and bar, and even an outdoor running track!
• The Crawford Hotel: For a more classic luxury hotel this is the one in Denver. Huge curved windows, beautiful spaces, and clawfoot bathtubs. Enjoy old-world luxury in this historic building.

Coronado Island

From Julia at Small World This Is

Coronado Island is a great romantic USA weekend getaway for couples that lies right across the Coronado Bridge from San Diego.

Spend the day lounging on the immaculate, gold-flecked Coronado Beach and upgrade your beach day by renting a luxury lounge chair from Del Beach Services, which includes a meal and drink service. Enjoy relaxing and soaking up some vitamin D.

Take a leisurely stroll and look for the sunken SS Monte Carlo, which you can spot during low tide.

Rent a bike or even better yet a surrey bike, with which you can explore the wide streets and beautiful homes of Coronado.

Wander around downtown Coronado, which is compact and has plenty of cute coffee shops, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and restaurants to stop by on Orange Avenue.

Clayton’s Coffee Shop is a classic diner option that serves up American comfort food like banana bread French toast.

Driving to Coronado is a popular and scenic option, but the ferry that leaves from downtown San Diego is a great alternative and gives you a stunning view of the city’s skyline from the water.

If you plan to take the ferry, the Coronado Ferry Building has plenty to do from fine dining to bike and kayak tours of the island.

Where to Stay in Coronado Island

• Hotel del Coronado : This historic hotel has been a getaway for many celebrity couples. Book a room with a stunning sea view and enjoy the onsite restaurants for a romantic meal.

From Montoya of The Spring Break Family

If you and your honey are looking for a romantic destination in America, look no further than Las Vegas, NV.  

The area is, of course, known for gambling and being “Sin City” but it is also a very romantic place to visit.

It is the only city in the world where you can combine the romance of Rome, Paris, Venice, and more into one (quirky) locale.

Perhaps the most romantic activity in the city is a private gondola ride in the Venetian/Palazzo hotel on the strip.

You and your boo can take a ride for two down the hotel’s canal while being beautifully serenaded by your gondolier.

If you are in the mood for relaxation, you can book a couples massage in the spa of any of the large hotels on the strip.

You can also spring for an in-room massage if you’d like something more private.

If skyline views are more your thing, you can get a killer view of the city from the High Roller at the Linq while sipping cocktails in a semi-private cabin.  

You and your partner can also scale the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel and see the twinkling lights of the city from their observation deck.

Romantic dinners are also on the menu, too!

Grab dinner at the Paris hotel on the 11th floor with jaw-dropping views of the strip, or venture a little off the strip to Top of the World restaurant in the Stratosphere Hotel to get a bird’s eye view of the entire city.  

The Barrymore near the Convention Center, Twist in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, or any of the restaurants in Wynn Hotel’s adult-only restaurants are also sure to spark a mood.

If the feeling of love overwhelms you during your trip, Las Vegas has several top-notch wedding venues that can do everything from a quickie wedding with Elvis (witness provided) to a full wedding complete with an audience and small orchestra.

No worries if you didn’t pack a dress and tux–the city of romance can take care of that too!

… And no worries if you’re already married, either: a spontaneous vow renewal with fun photos can make for quite the memorable souvenir!

From riding in a gondola (while being serenaded no less) to taking in a show, everything you need for a romantic getaway is located right in the heart of Las Vegas!

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

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

Fredericksburg, TX

As one of the most popular towns in the Texas Hill Country , the charming small town of Fredericksburg, Texas is a fantastic place for a couples getaway in the US.

Known for its German heritage, antiquing opportunities, its festivals, and its many, many wineries, Fredericksburg is packed full of options for a little romance.

Some of the best things to do in Fredericksburg include exploring the wineries along Wine Road 290 , strolling down Main Street, hiking nearby Enchanted Rock, eating delicious German food, and exploring the antique shops.

Depending on when you visit Fredericksburg, you may also be able to participate in the town’s Oktoberfest or German-inspired Christmas festivities.

In the spring, wildflowers (especially the famous Texas bluebonnets ) explode in the area, and in the summer, peach-picking is a local favorite.

Regardless of when you plan a trip to Fredericksburg, you’re bound to have plenty of options for putting together a romantic escape.

Fredericksburg is located less than 2 hours from both Austin and San Antonio, making it easy to access for Texans and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Fredericksburg

• Contigo Ranch: These self-contained units are the perfect off-the-grid romantic getaway, with terraces and BBQ facilities you can enjoy a lovely ranch style trip.
• Peach Tree Inn: This is a lovely simple inn in Fredericksburg, there is a fabulous daily breakfast on offer, a swimming pool, and BBQ facilities. The town center is just a short walk away.

From Patti of The Savvy Globetrotter

The beautiful city of Chicago is the perfect city for any couple looking for a romantic getaway in the USA.

There are plenty of fun things for couples to do together both outdoors and indoors, during the day or at night, whether on a budget or looking to splurge.

Couples that enjoy being outdoors can spend some time in one of Chicago’s many parks including Millennium Park, which is home to Cloud Gate, the famous sculpture also known as The Bean.

For a romantic stroll, couples can walk along the Chicago Riverwalk and/or lakefront to enjoy the beautiful city and water views.

With miles of beaches along the lake, couples can even take a long walk on the beach.

For those that enjoy being on the water, you can go sailing, join one of the many cruises on Lake Michigan or take an architecture river cruise (the best way to enjoy the impressive architecture and city skyline).

For those interested in more cultural activities, Chicago is home to many excellent and well-known museums and cultural institutions.

For a romantic night on the town, couples can watch a play or comedy show, listen to music at a jazz club or have dinner at one of Chicago’s many restaurants serving every type of cuisine.

One of the most romantic thing to do in Chicago is to have dinner or drinks at one of the many outdoor patios and rooftops while enjoying panoramic views of the beautiful skyline.

Chicago is an amazing city that has something for every couple no matter what your interests.

Where to Stay in Chicago

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

Mackinac Island

If you and your beloved are looking for a romantic US getaway that feels like you’ve stepped back in time, consider a summer escape to Michigan’s gorgeous Mackinac Island!

Situated in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is a classic Midwestern getaway and feels like an otherworldly destination.

For starters, no cars are allowed on the island, so prepare to leave yours behind!

Bikes, horse-drawn carriages, and old-fashioned walking are the preferred ways to get around.

Visiting the famous Arch Rock, hiking along any of 70 miles worth of trails, visiting Fort Mackinac, and touring a historic home or two are all worth adding to your list.

And, of course, you can’t miss the famous Grand Hotel Mackinac, one of the top places to visit on the island!

Buy a ticket to explore the building or grounds, or consider booking a romantic afternoon tea or even checking in for a stay.

Where to Stay in Mackinac Island

• Harbour View Inn: Just off the shores of Lake Huron and a short walk to the town center this pretty inn is a great option for your trip. Explore the gardens and enjoy the historic buildings in the area.
• Murray Hotel: Stay in this opulent historic hotel in the heart of town, the breakfasts are amazing and there is even an on-site fudge store serving award-winning fudge.

From Clemens of Traveller’s Archive

If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in the United States, look no further than Honolulu, the capital of the island of Oahu and also the entire state of Hawaii.

It is not only the commercial center of the island, but is also the home of the world-famous Waikiki Beach.

Every evening tourists make a pilgrimage to this beach to watch the orange-pink sunset–at least the ones who aren’t already there from soaking up the sun all day.

If you are up for some romance, come here for sunset or book yourself a table at one of the nice hotels that are located right on the beach.

Imagine the perfect Hawai’i sunset and put some bubbles to it – sounds just perfect, right?

Waikiki has great waves for beginner surfers and is the perfect spot to try out a new skill with your beloved.

During the day it’s time to seek out viewpoints: drive up the serpentines along the Tantalus Highway to get a full picture of O’ahu and bring yourself some typical Hawaiian poke bowl which you can best get at Keeaumoku Seafood.

This might just be the best lunch spot you ever visited!

Also, once in Honolulu, you can go on a little day trip to experience the beautiful North Shore, which is dotted with surf spots and home to some of the most amazing waves in the world.

Make sure to get to the sleepy village of Haleiwa where you can celebrate your romantic getaway with some bubbles and a nice lunch at Haleiwa Joe’s or get yourself some takeaway and watch the surfers hit the waves at Waimea Bay before you secure yourself a sunset spot at the beach.

A classic couples’ travel destination for generations, you can’t beat Honolulu when looking for the most romantic getaways in the USA!

Where to Stay in Honolulu

• Halepuna Waikiki: Stay in this luxury boutique hotel which features works of several Hawaiian artists in partnership with The Honolulu Museum of Art public art program. Soak in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean or relax on your hotel balcony.
• White Sands Hotel: Stay on the beach at this stunning hotel. Enjoy sipping on cocktails in swing chairs at the circular bamboo bar.

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.

15 thoughts on “31 of the Most Romantic Getaways in the USA (Couples’ Vacation Ideas!)”

Hi Kate, this is an amazing collection of getaways. I’ll pin it and refer to it for local getaways with friends and girl friends too. Thanks for compiling it and include me.

Anytime, Jyoti!

Love this list! However, as a local I have to point out that the market in Seattle is called pike place market, not pike street market. Small difference I know but it matters with all the history about this amazing market.

Thanks so much, Shannon! Made that update. 🙂

Super surprised to not see San Antonio on this list!

These are some great places listed!

We do love San Antonio (we actually lived there for a couple of years!). The food there is just incredible.

Yeah there’s nothing mentioned about Texas but you can talk about how great Chicago is visit the Hill Country and you will find out

Funny you should mention the Hill Country, because we are living in it right now! We actually run a whole second travel blog all about Texas, you can find us at https://www.lonestartravelguide.com for that. 🙂 I hadn’t noticed we had a lack of Texas in this post, I’ll have to add some when we update it later this year.

Seattle has Gasworks park, not Glasworks. Just in case someone is looking for it.

Thanks! Fixed. 🙂

Also, Fremont, not Freemont. I lived in Seattle and environs for 52 years and moved to Idaho to retire and be closer than 800 miles away to Grand Teton and Yellowstone. I am surprised you didn’t also mention Jackson, Wyoming as a place to get away to! It’s turned into quite the foodie place, too. It’s also called “Jackson Hole” by many people.

If we covered everywhere romantic in one post, we’d have a post hundreds of destinations long! We do love Jackson Hole, though–it’s listed on our USA honeymoon ideas post. 🙂

Great information for all, but I thought Charlotte,NC could have been another place in NC that I have found to be very romantic.

I found this to be very helpful…I took tons of notes!!!

Thank you 😊

Thanks, Sarah! Hope you have a great time exploring the country!

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27 Best Vacation Spots for Every Type of Couple

By Siobhan Reid

The best vacation spots for couples are steeped in timeless romance. Whether it’s a cruise down the Nile or a saunter through sultry Buenos Aires, some places have simply mastered the art of seduction.   

Still, no vacation is one size fits all, and while some couples want to escape to the golden sands of the Caribbean, other people’s idea of romance might look like a getaway to South Africa’s wine country, or seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland.

So, how to  plan a romantic getaway tailor-made for two? “My favorite piece of advice is to leave room for spontaneity,” says luxury travel advisor Amina Dearmon, the founder and owner of  Perspectives Travel . “Our lives are already so over-scheduled, it’s important to have the freedom to do absolutely nothing and enjoy each other’s company, no matter which destination you choose.”  

For  domestic trips , she loves the wellness-focused resorts in Arizona like  Canyon Ranch Tucson  and the soon-to-reopen  Mii Amo . As for international destinations, she recommends the Caribbean islands of Anguilla, Dominica, and St. Lucia, as well as Venice, Italy. And if you’re going to splurge, Dearmon suggests balling out on your  accommodations (“It’s your home away from home”) and opting for extras like VIP meet and greets at the airport (“It’s a service that makes up a small percentage of your total trip cost, but it can make the biggest difference in your travel day.”).

To get a jumpstart on your planning, here are the 27 best vacation spots for couples, whether you crave a blissed-out spa getaway, a culinary vacation, or an adventure-packed itinerary. 

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.

Poolside at Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

Ballotine de côte de veau au foie gras, mousseline de carotte des sables at La Co(o)orniche, Pyla-Sur-Mer

For stretching out on the sand

Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel, Anguilla

For beach bliss, cookbook author and “Top Chef” judge Gail Simmons recommends a romantic getaway to  Cap Juluca, a Belmond Hotel on Anguilla. “Cap Juluca’s beach is as pristine as it gets, with its long strip of powder-white sand, crystal clear water, and views of St. Maarten in the distance,” she says. “Plus, you never have to fight for a beach chair or show up super early, since there’s plenty of room and the staff always has an umbrella set up before you’ve even arrived.” When Simmons and her husband weren’t lounging on golden sands, they went paddleboarding, hit the tennis court, enjoyed massages at the spa, and even went on a snorkeling excursion. The highlight was all the quality time the pair spent together: “I loved how private and remote Cap Juluca felt,” says Simmons. “At times it felt like we were on our very own island.” 

La Co(o)orniche, Pyla-Sur-Mer

What could be more romantic than waking up to views of Europe’s biggest sand dune? At this Philippe Starck-designed  hotel in the seaside resort of Pyla-sur-Mer, couples enjoy panoramic views of Arcachon Bay and the mesmerizing Dune du Pilat from their beachy-chic guestrooms. Most visitors flock to the area to climb the magnificent dune, which rises 374 feet above sea level, but we won’t blame you for lazing on the sandy beach, breathing in the head-clearing scent of the pine forest.

Fernando De Noronha, Brazil

Brazil is spoiled for choice when it comes to beautiful beaches. But you’d be hard-pressed to find a place more blessed with natural beauty than Fernando de Noronho, a volcanic archipelago about 220 miles off the northeast coast of Brazil. Perhaps the dreamiest spot to spend the day with your significant other is Baia do Sancho, on the archipelago’s main island. The protected cove is the picture of earthly paradise, with forest-covered cliffs and azure waters home to colorful fish, dolphins, and sea turtles.  

Con Dao Archipelago, Vietnam

Looking for beachside seclusion? Skip Vietnam’s over-trammeled Phu Quoc and head to the isolated Con Dao archipelago instead. The remote islands are perfect for privacy-seekers: 83 percent of the archipelago is protected by the Con Dao National Park.  The most luxurious place to lay your head is the  Six Senses Con Dao , an eco-resort backed by the Lo Voi Mountains and located on a mile-long private beach. It’s worth peeling yourself away from your seaside villa for a guided hike along the coast to Dam Tre Bay, arguably the archipelago’s most photogenic beach, with forested hills and dramatic granite cliffs.

Tofino, Canada

For couples seeking rugged natural beauty and mist-shrouded coastal landscapes, it’s hard to top Tofino on Vancouver Island. The windswept town has no shortage of beaches primed for romance: Stroll hand in hand along the 10-mile Long Beach, enjoy a picnic with views of Clayoquot Sound at Tonquin Beach, or take a couple’s surf lesson at Cox Bay Beach. And while there are plenty of  beautiful Airbnbs available to rent, the oceanfront  Wickaninnish Inn —one of Canada’s most legendary hotels—epitomizes bucket-list romance. 

  Anse Source d’Argent Seychelles

There’s a reason Prince William and Kate Middleton honeymooned in the Seychelles. The Indian Ocean archipelago offers island romance par excellence, with luxurious resorts, off-the-grid adventures, and, of course, stunning beaches, the most famous being the Anse Source d’Argent on La Digue. It really doesn’t get more photogenic than this iconic stretch of sand, known for its shallow waters, imposing granite boulders, and swaying coconut palms. For a less-crowded—but no less picturesque option—hike three hours to Anse Marron, a remote beach on the southern tip of La Digue.  

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland  

For spa treatments and meditative moments

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Iceland   

By Caitlin Gunther

By Caitlin Morton

By Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

By Madison Flager

There are few destination spas as singular as this 62-suite  hotel , built into an 800-year-old lava field on the southwest side of Iceland’s famous lagoon. It’s an otherworldly place to spend a few days, kicking back in the Scandi-chic guestrooms, soaking in the thermal hot springs, and indulging in a seven-course chef’s tasting menu at the lagoon-level restaurant. You and your partner will feel weightless as you float in the mineral-rich waters, looking out at the surreal moss-fringed landscape. If you’re lucky, the Northern Lights may even dance across the sky.

One&Only Mandarina, Mexico

Author and interior designer  Athena Calderone fell head over heels for  One&Only Mandarina , a destination resort on Riviera Nayarit’s wild Pacific Coast. “The spa was an absolute dream—the entire experience was luxurious and elegant,” she says, referencing an all-natural Tata Harper facial that left her glowing. She also loved the treehouse accommodations and the resort’s intimate dining options, like the open-air Alma restaurant helmed by French-Mexican chef Olivier Deboise. “The property is the perfect respite for couples,” she says.

Six Senses Fort Barwara, Rajasthan  

Give your loved one the royal treatment at this 14 th -century fort turned 48-suite  hotel . Commanding a hilltop perch above Barwara Lake, the thoughtfully restored complex channels the glamor of a bygone era. Splurge on the Raja Man Singh Pool Suite, which features a pool and garden enclosed within a turret and views of the Chauth ka Barwara Mandir Temple and the Aravali hills. There are daily wellness activities like sunrise yoga and traditional  puja  ceremonies at sunset. But for the ultimate indulgence, retreat to the 30,000-square-foot spa for stress-relieving shirodhara treatments and cutting-edge biohacking therapies.

Troutbeck, New York

At this sophisticated  country manor in New York’s Hudson Valley, it’s all about communing with nature while enjoying luxe amenities (deep-soaking tubs, fireplaces, and Frette linens). Robust wellness programming rounds out the itinerary, with activities like pilates classes in a high-ceilinged barn, private tennis lessons at the food of Oblong Mountain, and cycling adventures along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. It’s the perfect weekend getaway for active couples—but the 38-room hotel is just as suited for relaxation. Stroll through the formal gardens, sign up for acupuncture treatments or massage, and if the weather’s nice, hang out by the swimming pool under the shade of sycamore trees. 

Capella Ubud, Bali  

This riverside  jungle camp in Bali’s lush Keliki Valley is a favorite destination among  honeymooners , but trust us, it’s far too special to only visit once in your lifetime. The setting is truly sublime, with 23 tented rooms spread over a terraced hillside flanked by paddy fields and dense rainforest. At the Auriga Spa , treatments draw on ancient Balinese and Hindu healing traditions and are accompanied by the sounds of the rainforest. More adventurous couples can go trekking through the Keliki rice paddies or sign up for a G.I Jungle outdoor training session.

A cruise down the Nile River 

For more than one adrenaline rush

Glacier treks and hair-raising hikes in Patagonia, Argentina

End-of-the-world landscapes and out-of-this-world adventures are all part of the experience in Argentinian Patagonia. Thrill-chasers should strap on their ice shoes and trek along the majestic Perito Moreno Glacier, a vast shield of ice whose surface is slightly larger than Buenos Aires, while wildlife lovers can glimpse giant Humpback whales, penguins, and sea lions in Ushuaia, South America’s southernmost city. For the ultimate bonding experience, attempt the 13-mile Laguna de Los Trek hike in El Chalten, which will bring you to the foot of the mighty Mount Fitz Roy. 

Wildlife sightings and outdoor adventures in Arenal Volcano National Park Costa Rica

The beauty of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano National Park is that you can do as much—or as little—as you want and still have a great time. This is especially true of couples who choose to bed down at the adults-only  Nayara Springs , a collection of luxurious private villas with plunge pools, gardens, outdoor showers, and show-stopping views of the Arenal Volcano. Off-property adventures include white-water rafting expeditions down the Sarapiqui River, visits to the 195-foot waterfall in the Arenal Hanging Bridges Park, and a photo tour of the lava fields.

A luxury train ‘safari’ through Namibia  

The best way to explore the vast, sun-baked desert of Namibia? By train, of course! On a nine-night safari journey with the ultra-glamorous  Rovos Rail , you and your partner will traverse some of the country’s most dramatic landscapes, including the Succulent Karoo desert, the red dunes of the Sossusvlei dry lake, and the Walvis Bay tidal lagoon. You’ll make plenty of stops along the way, so you can fully appreciate the wide-open views and snap photos of the wildlife. To travel in style, splurge on the wood-paneled Royal Suite sleeper coach.

Dude ranch adventures in Utah

Studies show that couples who actively try new things together are less likely to fall into a rut. Well, we don’t know about you, but we can’t think of a better relationship-building exercise than learning the “art of cowboying” at Utah’s  Lodge at Blue Sky, Auberge Resorts Collection . Set on a 3,500-acre private working ranch a half-hour from Salt Lake City, the hotel offers a range of equine adventures suited for amateurs and experienced riders alike—instruction in English riding, rides through the flower-covered meadows of the Wasatch Mountains, and even a breathwork session in the stable. 

A road trip along Australia’s Great Ocean Road  

The open road offers complete spontaneity and freedom of choice—the perfect option for couples who like to leave extra room for scenic detours. For the ultimate road trip itinerary, set your sights on Australia’s Great Ocean Road, a 150-mile stretch that winds around the country’s scenic southern coast. Says Stuart Rigg, owner of  Southern Crossings Australia : “The Great Ocean Road offers captivating landscapes, charming seaside towns, fabulous food and wine experiences, and great opportunities to get outdoors with the one you love.” While he notes that the route is best known for its iconic limestone rock formations like the iconic 12 Apostles, he notes that there are plenty of other photo ops and attractions along the way. Among them: towering Californian Redwoods in Otway National Park, the Kennett River Koala Walk, and the highly-award Wickens restaurant at the Royal Mail Hotel. 

A cruise down the Nile River  

Egypt’s Nile River is so mythical, even Cole Porter crooned about it in his love songs. To cruise it in style, opt for a six-day itinerary with  Nour el Nil on a traditional flat-bottomed  dahabiya  sailboat. As you journey from Esna to Aswan, you and your sweetheart will float past reed-covered banks, the dunes of the Sahara, and ancient monuments like the Gebel El Silsila Temple that other large ships can’t reach. 

A heirloom and beetroot variation at Odette 

For unforgettable meals (and wine lists)

Napa Valley, California   

Wine tastings, hot-air balloon rides, pilgrimage-worthy dining, chic boutique hotels. No place does romance quite like Napa Valley. And while you could easily spend weeks discovering the region’s wineries and restaurants, there are a few spots that couples shouldn’t miss. At Sullivan Rutherford Estate, enjoy a private Cab Sauv tasting and tour of the sculpted gardens before settling in for a nine-course tasting menu at Thomas Keller’s lauded  French Laundry. Or swing by Gott’s Roadside to pick up a milkshake and old-fashioned burger before catching the sunset at Skyline Wilderness Park. The recently reborn  Poetry Inn is probably the region’s most swoon-worthy stay, with just five rooms boasting vineyard views, sweeping private terraces, and soaking tubs.

The Lake District, England

The English Lake District has long attracted outdoor enthusiasts who come to scale the U.K.’s highest peaks But in recent decades, the verdant region in northwest England has emerged as a gastronomic hotspot. It all started in 2002 when British chef Simon Rogan—one of the pioneers of the farm-to-table movement—opened his now-famous  L’Enclume in the quaint village of Cartmel. The three-starred Michelin restaurant is known for putting inventive spins on classic dishes using organic produce from Rogan’s 12-acre farm. Since then, plenty of other high-end restaurants have set up shop, like the acclaimed British-Asian  Blackbull  in Sedbergh and the  Old Stamp House in Ambleside. Now the region has become somewhat of a food pilgrimage, popular among couples craving haute cuisine and gastronomic-centered hotels like  Linthwaite House and  Our Rooms by L’Enclume . 

Emilia Romagna, Italy

Every corner of Italy has something to offer from a culinary perspective. But only the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna can lay claim to 44 DOP food products including Parmigiano Reggiano, tortellini, and ragù bolognese. Begin your eatathon in the region’s capital, Bologna. With only one Michelin-starred restaurant in the entire city (yes, really), couples will have to do their own research, strolling the city’s grand porticos in search of the best osteria and trattorias. From Bologna, the options are limitless: visit family-run vinegar producers in Modena; try Culatello, the most prestigious of all cured meats, in Parma; and develop a taste for Lambrusco in Reggio Emilia. And for a no-expenses-spared date night out, there’s only one place to know about: Massimo Bottura’s renowned  Osteria Francescana in Modena. 

As a melting pot of Chinese, Malay, and Indian cultures, Singapore is one of the world’s great food cities—and a real feast for travelers hungry for food  and  culture. And sure, there are temples of fine dining galore (we’re looking at you,  Odette ), but some of the city’s best bites come from unassuming local vendors at the city’s legendary hawker centers. At the Chinatown Complex Food Centre, sample everything from fragrant laksa soup and Chinese steamed buns to piping-hot clay pot rice. For date night, make reservations at the renowned  Atlas Bar , a vaulted space with Art Deco flair and the world’s largest gin collection. Even the city’s Jewel Changi Airport is a culinary wonderland with 100+ eateries, allowing couples to make the most of their every meal in the food-obsessed city. 

South Africa’s Wine Country  

From stunning Cape Dutch-style architecture and world-class restaurants to luxurious wine country hotels, South Africa’s wine country is truly suited to all tastes. After checking in at  Delaire Graff Estates , a boutique hotel and winery near Stellenbosch, toast to your romantic getaway with a bottle of méthode cap classique (South Africa’s version of Champagne). You’ll want to set aside a few days to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch and the neighboring regions Franschhoek, Paarl, and Constantia, where the grape to seek out is Pinotage, South Africa’s flagship variety. For a vacation memory that’ll age like fine wine, splurge on the tasting menu at  Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia .  

For art and culture around every corner

It’s no secret that the French capital is a cultural powerhouse. But it’s not always easy to escape the crowds and enjoy the cultural treasures for yourself—or is it? According to the uber-stylish Parisian hoteliers Anouk and Louis Solanet of  Orso hotel group, there are plenty of lesser-known gems even in popular neighborhoods like Montmartre (you just need to know where to look). One of the couple’s favorite spots is the Musée de la vie Romantique , a literary museum situated at the base of Montmartre and set within the former house of Dutch painter Ary Scheffer. “We love to sit in silence in the hidden garden, which smells of roses and lilacs,” says Anouk. Afterwards, they recommend grabbing a drink at  Hotel Rochechouart ’s rooftop, which offers dead-on views of the Sacré Coeur. On the Left Bank, the couple loves strolling through the Jardin du Luxembourg and on to Rue Notre-Dame-des-Champs, one of the streets that inspired Woody Allen’s  Midnight in Paris,  and finally to the Giacometti Foundation—“A jewel of Parisian museum,” says Louis—which is dedicated to the life and work of the famous Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti. 

Lausanne, Switzerland

Switzerland’s fourth-largest city is straight out of a fairytale, with a medieval Old Town and vertiginous streets that rise above the shimmering waters of Lake Geneva. It’s also one of the country’s most underrated arts hubs, thanks to the recent opening of  Platforme 10 , a striking new art district home to three of the city’s major art museums. For couples who prefer to see art en plein air, go on a cultural scavenger hunt to locate 82 works scattered throughout the hillside city (don’t miss Clelia Bettua’s sculptural weather vane at the Port of Ouchy). To cap off a perfect day, catch a show at the newly modernized Théâre de Vidy before retiring at the  Hôtel Royal Savoy Lausanne , a grand castle-like property that wouldn’t be out of place in a Wes Anderson flick. The hotel has a sublime spa, a rooftop terrace overlooking the lake, and an unbeatable location near all the top cultural spots. 

Buenos Aires

Is there a city sexier than Buenos Aires? There’s something sultry about Argentina’s capital, from its dimly-lit tango bars and balmy weather to its heady mix of South American and European influences. After catching a tango performance at the city’s best-known milonga, La Catedral , continue your cultural immersion at the Teatro Colon —one of the world’s most beautiful opera houses—where Igor Stravinsky has performed, Rudolph Nureyev has danced, and Maria Callas has sung. From there, it’s a short walk to  El Ateneo Grand Splendid , a bookstore occupying a former theater and featuring century-old ceiling frescos. But to really feel the spirit of the city, couples should spend an afternoon in the colorful La Boca neighborhood, where there are vibrant murals, live music, and views of the Riachuelo River.

Venice, Italy  

“Venice is pure magic,” says Amina Dearmon of Perspectives Travel. “I love being able to wander the streets, stop at an osteria for an Aperol Spritz, and watch the sunset from the Accademia Bridge.” Like so many Italian cities, Venice is like an open-air museum, brimming with art and culture at every turn. Its narrow streets and atmospheric squares are packed with heavy-hitting institutions, too, like the  Peggy Guggenheim Collection , the  Doge’s Palace , and the  Palazzo Ca’ Pesaro . First-time visitors shouldn’t miss a side trip to Murano, the second-largest island in the Venetian lagoon, to learn about its long tradition of glassmaking at the  Venice Glass Museum . 

The former imperial capital of Japan is home to more than a dozen UNESCO World Heritage Sites and some 2,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. In any other city, the sheer volume of culture would be head-spinning. But in Kyoto, it’s a pleasure to stroll around the peaceful temple gardens, traditional teahouses, and ancient storefronts, feeling transported to an earlier time. Top landmarks include the famous orange torii gates at the Fushimi Inari shrine, the celebrated Kiyomizu Temple, and the impressive Nijo Castle. If the budget allows, spend the night at the new  Aman Kyoto , a sanctuary-like retreat set on 80 acres of hilly woodland in the north of the city, a stone’s throw from the golden Kinkaku-ji Temple.  

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10 of the best weekend getaways for couples in the USA

Jan 25, 2024 • 10 min read

Aspen Colorado is not all snow days; with activities like hiking and biking being popular during the other months of the year © Ken Redding /Corbis

Looking to escape the everyday grind with a picture-perfect romantic holiday? 

We’ve looked all over the USA and plucked out 10 weekend getaways that cater to couples of all tastes. From mountains to beaches, big cities to small towns, sprawling national parks to epic West Coast drives, here are the best places in the US for a romantic escape from it all.

1. Big Sur, California

Best for couples who love the open road

Enjoy quality time with breathtaking views on one of the country’s most celebrated road trips. Big Sur ’s wild stretch of Hwy 1 matches unparalleled vistas with hidden beaches and hiking opportunities, bubbling hot springs and excellent dining options – which makes it ideal for a couple looking to hit the road and reconnect with nature, without going totally rustic . 

What’s more, the drive is better as a duo: if you take turns, you’ll both have a chance to look out the window, and to get behind the wheel. (Just be sure to check your route before you set out, as rockslides, flooding, wildfires and auto accidents can all trigger closures.)    

Start north of Big Sur at Carmel-by-the-Sea , and give yourself time to explore a village renowned for its artistic charm, from its galleries and shopping to its 18th-century mission . On your way south, stop at Point Lobos State Park to watch the sea lions cavorting on the coast, then pause near the highly Instagrammable Bixby Bridge to snap a pic or two. 

2. Key Biscayne, Florida

Best for sun-seeking couples

Less than 10 miles from downtown, Key Biscayne isn’t technically part of Miami . Yet it’s close and continuous enough with the city that it could be an outer neighborhood – if it didn’t feel so darn different. From skyscrapers and scene-y clubs to quiet white-sand beaches , bike-friendly streets and water sports galore, this barrier island promises to transport you and your loved one far from the urban clamor. 

Between its 19th-century lighthouse – the oldest standing structure in all of Florida – and its 1.25-mile natural beach, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park is a must-visit. Couples can recharge together under an umbrella, or paddle a kayak for two on the ocean waves. If you’re arriving by sea, head straight for Boater’s Grill , where you can dock at No Name Harbor and tuck into bacalao fritters and fresh-caught snapper. 

The Rusty Pelican is another local institution that’s going strong after more than half a century. Reserve a table for brunch or time it to sunset to make the most of the magnificent waterfront location on Rickenbacker Marina.  

3. Monadnock Region, New Hampshire

Best for small-town-loving couples

The southwest corner of New Hampshire is dotted with historic towns that exude charm – and provide a backdrop for romantic touring. Make a weekend of it by hitting the back roads and driving your way from village to village, one white-spired church and town green at a time. 

Harrisville (population 953) boasts a beautifully preserved red-brick mill complex once powered by the waterfall that flows next to it; today, it’s home to knitting outfitter  Harrisville Designs . After a walk around the village (it won’t take long), stop for lunch at the picture-perfect Harrisville General Store . Nearby Hancock (pop 1654) has one of the loveliest Main Sts around, lined with historic homes with huge porches and white-picket fences; the storied Hancock Inn , dating to 1789, is scheduled to reopen in 2024. Peterborough (in these parts, a small city – of 6284 people) is the regional hub for the arts, and its small streets are filled with galleries , small museums and original shops. (It’s also a creative muse itself, supposedly serving as the inspiration for Grover’s Corners in Thornton Wilder’s Our Town .)

You won’t have to drive far to see the massif that lends its name to the area. If you’re after a bit of exertion after all that car time, Monadnock , one of the world’s most-climbed mountains, offers a moderate hike with a major payoff: 360° views from its rocky, 3165-ft summit that on clear days stretch as far as Boston .

4. Williamsburg, New York City 

Best for gourmet couples 

Even in New York City ’s standout restaurant scene, North Brooklyn boasts a particular embarrassment of riches. By basing yourself in Williamsburg, you’ll be at the center of the action.

Whether you’re after a fun date over cha siu “McRibs” and “MSG martinis” or a morning-after brunch of salted-egg-custard french toast, Cantonese-American Bonnie’s is a hot ticket. In South Williamsburg, elegant Aldama serves elevated takes on the street foods of central Mexico, while over by the BQE, Llama Inn ’s dimly lit dining room sets the scene for romance over beautifully rendered Peruvian fare.

On the northern edge of the neighborhood, KRU does modern twists on Thai classics in industrial-chic, apothecary-esque environs. And for a casual bite, Taqueria Ramírez slings meaty Mexico City–style tacos from a subway-tiled storefront in Greenpoint. Come prepared to queue up for your tripa , campechano , longaniza , suadero  and al pastor on weekends. 

5. Joshua Tree National Park, California 

Best for outdoorsy couples 

The two distinct desert ecosystems of Joshua Tree National Park present myriad opportunities for open-air bonding – think spring wildflowers, all sorts of animals, stunning sunsets and epic stargazing. If you prefer to stroll hand in hand, there are short walks and nature trails, with more-strenuous treks – plus biking, backpacking and rock-climbing – if you’d rather work up a sweat. (However you get out and about, pack more water than you’ll think you’ll need in this hot, dry, gorgeous place.)

You’ll find on-site campgrounds – but renting romantic accommodations nearby takes things up a notch. Barely 10 miles from the park gate, Cascade Trails Mustang Sanctuary offers five glamping tents alongside equine experiences, such as sunset trail excursions and private stargazing rides (bookable even if you’re not staying overnight). 

Take a dip in the heated pool, then cozy up in a sleek Airstream trailer at AutoCamp Joshua Tree , or hit the mineral spa and pool at the adults-only, 420-friendly, clothing-optional Mi Kasa Hot Springs . Celebrating something special? Peruse Plum Guide’s listings for the perfectly private, modern abode. 

6. Santa Fe, New Mexico

Best for couples who love mixing old and new

A city founded by the Spanish more than 400 years ago is today a center of artistic innovation. Strict planning laws mandate the use of adobe in all construction (even gas stations!), giving Santa Fe its signature earth-toned look and sense of architectural harmony and continuity. Yet riots of color and imagination lie behind those earthen walls.

In and around the historic Plaza , world-class museums showcase paintings by famous resident Georgia O’Keeffe , as well as new work by local Indigenous artists . Further afield, the Museum of International Folk Art teems with everything from brightly painted masks to carved dolls to beaded jewelry and much, much more (it’s the world’s largest such collection).

But perhaps no site exemplifies Santa Fe’s vibe of free-spirited inventiveness better than Meow Wolf . An artist collective has transformed a former bowling alley (donated by another Santa Fe creative, George RR Martin, of Game of Thrones fame) into an immersive wonderland, with trippy lights, hidden passageways and a head-scratching narrative to guide visitors through all the madness. Rather than stepping into history, here you’ll feel you’ll have stepped into another dimension.

7. Aspen, Colorado

Best for high-rolling couples

Ritzy Aspen is a legendary celebrity hangout, particularly during the peak winter months , when the perfect powder, jaw-dropping real estate and impeccable dining options draw a steady crowd of A-listers – and prices to match. That said, it’s not all snow days : with biking, hiking and cultural events during the other months of the year, it’s a true four-season destination. While planning a budget weekend here would be a tall order, this is a great place to go all out. 

If you’re that other kind of high-rolling couple , there’s plenty for you as well. Like the rest of Colorado, Aspen has a selection of recreational and medical marijuana dispensaries ; Dalwhinnie is worth a stop for the eye candy alone. A tasteful boutique with a cowboy–cousin–of–Ralph Lauren aesthetic, it caters to the VIP market, juxtaposing pre-rolled joints, jars of flower and deluxe accessories with clothing, jewelry and home goods worth tens of thousands. As you’d expect in a place like this, prices are higher than at your average dispensary.  

8. Rogers Park, Chicago 

Best for culture-oriented couples

Hyde Park and Bucktown–Wicker Park are well known for their architectural bona fides and trendsetting, art-inspired style. But to mingle with a young crowd of diverse creatives, the Far North Side community of Rogers Park is the place to head. With 60-plus languages spoken and too many cuisines to count – from Caribbean to Mexican to Ethiopian to Japanese – this is the Chicago neighborhood that, based on recent census data, “most closely matches the racial and ethnic breakdown of the entire city,” per the Chicago Sun-Times . 

During the day, check out the Mile of Murals on Glenwood Ave, wander through the galleries and studios of the Glenwood Arts District and stop by the Leather Archives & Museum for a peek at the history and culture of leather, kink, fetish and BDSM.

By night, catch original works at the Factory Theater , world music and magicians at Rhapsody and stories from underrepresented communities – expressed via stage combat! – at Babes With Blades . Then grab a nightcap at the romantic Le Piano , an intimate bar and performance space anchored by – yes – a grand piano.

9. Washington, Virginia

Best for history-loving couples

About a 90-minute drive west of DC in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley , the country’s original Washington sits in the shadow of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Expect a quaint small town with world-famous accommodations.

Relais & Châteaux’s Inn at Little Washington is home to the only three-Michelin-star restaurant in the DC metro area. Since it’s beloved for its tasting menus, you just might spot members of the other Washington’s elite at the next table over. (You may also recall its unique approach to filling the dining room post-lockdown ). 

You won’t have to travel far to enjoy more of this charmer of a town. Sip a glass of locally made wine at Gadino Cellars or Little Washington Winery , duck in and out of the village’s shops and galleries, or head underground to check out the biggest caverns in the eastern US . You can also do some paddling on the Shenandoah River, motor south to spectacular Skyline Dr and hit the rest of nearby Shenandoah National Park for adventures both on foot and two wheels . 

10. San Juan, Puerto Rico

Best for LGBTIQ+ couples

One of the most welcoming destinations in Puerto Rico – and the entire Caribbean – for LGBTIQ+ travelers, San Juan is a warm-weather retreat with gay-friendly neighborhoods, accommodations, nightlife and restaurants. To keep things lively, a Queer Filmfest takes place in May, as well as an epic Pride celebration in June. And all of this is just a couple of hours by plane from most cities on the East Coast.

You and your partner can hit one of two unofficial gay beaches , then prepare for a big night out at one of the capital’s fun LGBTIQ+ bars, whether you’re catching a drag show at Kweens Klub or Zal Si Puedes , dancing up a storm at La Placita , downing cheap, strong drinks at Tía Maria’s Liquor Store or making new friends at La Sombrilla Rosa .

Looking to treat yourselves to a nice meal? Order broiled lobster and booze-filled coconut drinks at the gay-owned Ostra Cosa , or head to Jose Santaella’s gay-friendly namesake for beautiful contemporary Puerto Rican fare in an equally beautifully designed space. 

As for accommodations, Coqui del Mar is an adults-only, gay-owned guesthouse in Ocean Park, with a clothing-optional pool and first-floor studios complete with two-person walk-in showers. You can also join group excursions to the rainforest and the beach. The all-vegetarian, gay-owned boutique Dreamcatcher is also in Ocean Park, while the adults-only Condado Ocean Club faces the sea in – you guessed it – Condado.

This article was first published Feb 9, 2023 and updated Jan 25, 2024.

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The best romantic getaways in the U.S. for couples

Relax with your love on a romantic getaway in the U.S., from desert escapes to beach retreats

Couples who travel together are happier together. That claim may be an oversimplification, but it's safe to say that exploring the world, getting out of the daily routines and trying new things together are all effective at spurring romance and connection. 

From your first romantic weekend trip away to your honeymoon or  babymoon  and the many anniversary vacations to come, taking trips as a couple is a surefire way to  keep the spark alive and form a deeper bond. And while a European voyage to Paris or Rome tops many people's bucket lists, you don't have to travel far to find romance.  Across the U.S., charming destinations await that will sweep your one and only off their feet.

Head to  California  to enjoy some of the country's best food and wine amid coastal scenery, embrace nature in the Colorado mountains or Arizona desert, or visit a charming East Coast town like Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket, where you can stroll the historic streets and stay in a cozy inn. Whatever you choose, our list of the most romantic getaways in the USA boasts stunning landscapes, plenty of ways to be pampered, and some of the most romantic hotels in America .

An email you’ll actually love

Best romantic getaways in the U.S.

1.  Sonoma County, CA

It’s easy to swoon over Sonoma . While wine tasting is the main attraction, there's so much more to this sprawling California county. Get pampered at world-class spas (head to  Dawn Ranch  for an oasis set among the redwoods); dine your heart out at restaurants rooted in seasonal California fare (snag a seat at Healdbsurg's buzziest new opening,  Goodnight’s Prime Steak + Spirits ); or head to the coast to take in stunning ocean views at boutique hotels like  Nick's Cove  or  Timber Cove (grab a bite at their waterfront restaurants or stay the night). 

2.  Scottsdale, AZ

Set amid the stunning Sonoran desert, the backdrop to a vacation in Scottsdale  easily checks the romantic box. This Arizona town has long been a destination for those looking to be pampered and relax—and in recent years, has experienced a renewed sense of interest from travelers thanks to buzzy restaurants (check out FnB Restaurant and Fat Ox ), a myriad of wellness experiences, and even an up-and-coming wine scene (don't skip  Aridus Winery 's tasting room in Old Town). Couples looking for an urban retreat will enjoy a stay at the midcentury marvel that is the  Hotel Valley Ho , and for those looking to escape reality in a more remote setting, don't miss the luxurious  Sanctuary Camelback Mountain (Jay Z and Beyoncé honeymooned here, if that tells you anything.)

3.  Kauai, HI

If your version of paradise includes rugged cliffs and sunny sand, emerald hills and epic hikes, fire up your laptop and book a trip to  Kauai . The 'Garden Isle' is a verdant wonderland where you can take a helicopter ride past the Jurassic Park waterfall, kayak Hawaii's only navigable river or walk the wild Na Pali Coast—though no one will blame you for kicking back with a cocktail on the beach. For an indulgent stay, book a room at the brand-new sustainable luxury resort,  1 Hotel Hanalei Bay.

4.  Savannah, GA

Savannah  wears its charm in the open: classic homes, historic squares and impossibly photogenic moss-covered trees. But there's more to this Southern belle than gawking at her sights. Go for a stroll on Tybee Island , then dig into expertly crafted Cajun and low-country cooking at Alligator Soul (where, yes, there's gator on the menu). Finish things off at Lulu's Chocolate Bar and share a slice of the rum-brushed strawberry suspension cake.

5.  San Juan Islands, WA

This Puget Sound escape—where the most populated town is just one square mile—is about escaping it all. Life on the San Juan Islands  means lighthouse strolls, coastal kayaking, visits to alpaca or lavender farms, and fresh seafood. Book a summer whale watch session and spot one of three local orca pods before bed at the Bird Rock Hotel , where loaner bikes let you explore at the right pace.

6.  The Berkshires, MA

The Berkshires aren't just one town but a collection of several that are quaint and charming in their way. Start with Lenox, a scenic and lush town once the home of writer Edith Wharton, and Stockbridge, a town bursting with Norman Rockwell-inspired streets. There’s also North Adams, replete with picturesque churches, and Williamstown, surrounded by mountains and farmland. Stroll together hand-in-hand along the historic downtown streets, hit a hiking trail, and relax together in a B&B: there's romance here no matter where your days (and nights) take you.

7.  Sun Valley, ID

No matter the time of year, the Sun Valley , Idaho region, is a perfect choice for a little romance. In the winter, ski during the day and get cozy at night; in the spring and summer, take in wildflower and waterful hikes; and when autumn rolls in, take in some of the most stunning foliage views in the country. Stay at the historic Sun Valley Resort  or the neighboring town, Ketchum, at the LimeLight Ketchum, which features a year-round heated pool and mountain views that set the mood. 

8.  New Paltz, NY

Mohonk Mountain House  in New Paltz, NY, is a gorgeous retreat two hours from NYC that dates back to 1869. Since then, Mohonk has grown enormously, evident in the varying styles of the main building as well as through the scattered wooden “summer houses” that dot the landscape. Head here for romantic Victorian rooms with wood-burning fireplaces, outstanding views from surrounding trails, live music, and events. The resort hosts occasional "Romantic Couples' Weekends" with love-themed activities for you and your beau.

9.  New Orleans

There's something magical about New Orleans —the cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the 100+-year-old candlelit restaurants, the live music wafting through the air. Look past the rowdiness of Bourbon Street, and you'll find a city ripe for romance: stroll past historic mansions in the Garden District, get a cocktail at the Carousel Bar , and unwind at a luxurious hotel like the Eliza Jane .

10.  Aspen, CO

There’s no wrong time to book a trip to Aspen , a Rocky Mountain town where romantic enticements beckon all year long. From luxury hotels and sophisticated dining to hot air ballooning and legendary slopes, there’s a reason Aspen has a reputation for over-the-top thrills. Whether you’re here to ski with your partner, take on some rapids, or settle into a couple’s massage at the extravagant St. Regis (don’t miss the hotel's nightly champagne sabering, either), you’ll leave Aspen more in love than ever.

11.  Glacier National Park, MT

With mountain lakes surrounded by rocky peaks, 600ft waterfalls and glaciers (expected to melt in the next 30 years), Glacier National Park deserves a place on your to-do list. Hike, horseback ride, hop a boat, spot a grizzly bear or mountain goat, and then cozy up over a fire or hearty meal. Given the range of accommodations offered—from lodges to campsites to backcountry chalets well worth the walk—this is the ideal destination to combine adventure and affection.

12.  New York, NY

With its relentless bustle, New York romance is about connecting with your partner amid the chaos. Go classic: Rent a rowboat in Central Park and get gussied up for dinner at La Grenouille , serving time-honored French delicacies in a flower-arrangement-filled space. Or throw tradition to the wind: Get into frisky business at the Museum of Sex or take the tram to Roosevelt Island for lofty, 360-degree city views.

13.  Nantucket, MA

Nantucket is the perfect setting for a romance novel—or real-life romance. With white-sand beaches, cobblestone streets and New England charm everywhere you look, this tiny island (which is only 14 miles in length) is the perfect place to get away if you're looking for seaside splendor. Splurge on luxury accommodations (there are plenty to choose from, but we recommend the Wauwinet ), have a picnic on the beach or slide into a booth at a historic restaurant, or bike around the island. The high season is Memorial Day through Labor Day, but the shoulder months can be just as lovely without the crowds. 

14.  Big Sur, CA

With rolling redwood forests and cliffs jutting over turquoise water, Big Sur  is idyllic in the extreme. Splurge at the Post Ranch Inn , where your luxury bungalow is TV- and telephone-free, or snuggle up inside a yurt at Treebones . Come during the summer when you can kayak with sea otters, take a moonlit tour of the Point Sur lighthouse or stay up late for a dip in the Esalen Hot Springs .

15.  Harpers Ferry, WV

Although Harpers Ferry played a role in igniting the Civil War, today's vibe is far more romantic than revolutionary. The core of Harpers Ferry—which sits at the edge of the Shenandoah River, the Potomac River, and the Blue Ridge Mountains—is a national historic park with forts, museums, cobbled streets, and charm aplenty. You’ll also find 22 miles of hiking trails outside the city center, and in the warmer months, the town is an ideal launch point for kayaking, whitewater rafting, and tubing. It won't take long to understand why locals call West Virginia 'almost heaven.'

16.  Martha’s Vineyard, MA

The Obamas' go-to summer getaway, Martha's Vineyard has always charmed visitors with its windswept beaches and sweet towns. Rent a home or base yourself at Hob Knob in Edgartown, the island’s picture-perfect, oldest settlement with narrow streets, red-brick pavements and white clapboard homes. Hit the beach, browse local shops, marvel over the sunset and stuff yourself with fresh seafood—it’s not a Vineyard visit without lobster from Larsen’s Fish Market .

17.  Mackinac Island, MI

Nothing beats Michigan in the summer—the crystal blue water, perfect weather, and friendly people. One of the most quaint spots in the state is  Mackinac Island , situated on Lake Huron between Michigan's upper and lower peninsulas. With stunning national parks, car-free streets, charming B&Bs, and plenty of outdoor activities, this is a place where you can lazily enjoy the island life or be active from sunrise to sunset. 

18.  Charleston, SC

This picturesque Southern city doesn’t just feel like a romantic movie set; Nicholas Sparks’ The Notebook was actually filmed around Charleston . Turn it into the background of your love story as you roam the historic district, explore the vibrant dining scene and wander through the gardens at Boone Hall .

19.  Block Island, RI

Dubbed 'Island of the Little God' by the Narragansett tribe, this petite isle 12 miles off the coast of Rhode Island is a world apart from the mainland. Rent a bike or moped, grab a sandwich from Three Sisters and start discovering your favorite beach or scenic trail.

20.  Sedona, AZ

Free your spiritual side in Sedona , a desert enclave where natural vortexes emit mystical energy. Even if communing with the Earth isn't your thing, visiting for the spectacular slot-canyon hiking and world-class accommodations is worth it. Spoil yourself in a L'Auberge de Sedona cottage complete with an outdoor shower or stay at Enchantment Resort and book a couple’s treatment at the acclaimed Mii Amo spa .

21.  San Diego, CA

With 322 days of annual sunshine, San Diego begs you to get outside and explore. Hit the waves at Pacific Beach, ride bikes along the boardwalk, charter a boat or grab a patch of sand and snuggle up with your partner. The zoo is rightfully renowned and, when you've worked up an appetite , head to the Marine Room for dinner at high tide when the Pacific crashes against the windows.

22.  Amelia Island, FL

Barely inside the Florida border, this Atlantic Coast barrier island hits the spot for a luxury weekend or low-key retreat. Book a room at a historic B&B or bed down overlooking the beach at the Ritz-Carlton . Then, spend your days soaking up the sun, riding horses along the shoreline or on the water on a fishing charter or sightseeing tour. Keep the camera ready for sea turtles, manatees and dolphins.

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50 Best Vacation Ideas for Couples

Last Updated By VI on June 10, 2024

Best Beach Vacation Spots for Couples

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Romantic beach destinations are often a favorite with couples and honeymooners and there is certainly much to choose from. Whether you are looking for white sandy beaches of Oahu , the world's best pink sand beaches or black sand beaches, there are amazing choices all around the world. Explore the beaches of Costa Rica , Michigan , Oregon , North Carolina and California .

Ideas by Occasion: Relax at a spa , Girls weekend , Birthday , Family , Honeymoon Weekend , All-Inclusive

Ideas in New England: Vermont , Massachusetts , New Jersey , Maryland , New Hampshire , Delaware

Weekend Inspiration: NC Getaways , Small Town Getaways , From Toronto , Oklahoma , From Jackson , From Louisville

New York City

West Coast Vacations: Oregon , From Seattle , Washington

Weekend Trips: Southwest Weekend Getaways , Arkansas , Idaho , Montana

Where to travel next: New England Getaways , Wisconsin , Kentucky , Illinois , NJ , Richmond , From NJ

California vacations: California Weekend Getaways , Southern California , Northern California , Lake Tahoe , From Los Angeles , From San Francisco , From San Diego

The South USA Vacations: Mississippi , Georgia , Alabama , Florida , From New Orleans , Louisiana

Florida vacations: From Miami , Florida Weekend Getaways , Romantic Getaways , Florida Islands , Romantic Getaways in St. Augustine , Honeymoon

Texas vacations: From Houston , For Couples , Weekend Getaways in Texas , Texas Hill Country , Family Getaways

More ideas: From DC , Virginia , West Virginia , Maryland , Tennessee , Vermont , Delaware

Couples who love nature as much as each other will find their perfect getaway in Costa Rica . Long considered one of the world’s most bio-diverse countries, partners will find plenty of places to commune with nature like walking through the cloud forest at Poas Volcano National Park, or hiking the tropical forest of Manuel Antonio Park on the lookout for capuchin monkeys, coatis, sloths, and the elusive quetzal. Costa Rica is also a great destination where couples can satisfy their cultural curiosities with sustainable cuisine, local artisan handicrafts, creole swing dance, and historical walks in San José, Cartago, Puntarenas, and Limón. Next read: Costa Rica beaches

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs offers couples an enchanting getaway in the mountains. Outdoorsy couples looking for a unique getaway will find it at an authentic Colorado Springs guest ranch. At Lost Valley Ranch couples can choose Western adventures from cattle round-ups to rodeos, cowboy cookouts, square dancing, and many others. The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp provides couples with a world-class fishing experience combined with accommodations in a 1940s miner’s cabin. City slickers will be inspired by Colorado Springs’s craft brew scene. With over 30 craft breweries and distilleries, taking the Crafts and Drafts tour is the best way to sample them. An absolute must-do is a trip to the top of Pike’s Peak together – by car, train, bike, or on foot.

London getaways for two are all about choices. Equestrians will want to take the reins along the famous Rotten Row bridle path in Hyde Park. The 322-foot-long champagne bar in St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel, self-proclaimed the “most romantic building” in London , is the place to toast life together with one of over 17 champagne varieties. A stroll along the Grand Canal in Little Venice to admire the colorful houseboats offers quiet moments. Or, couples can take in the cosmopolitan charm of Notting Hill with its edgy art and theater scene and distinctive restaurants. Of course, there’s the obligatory Buckingham Palace Tour followed by afternoon tea. Savvy couples can plan their getaway around one of the city’s popular events like Wimbledon, the oldest tennis tournament in the world.

Everyone defines a couple’s getaway differently. For hockey fans, especially Toronto Maple Leaf fans, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the thrill of victory together surrounded by equally passionate, screaming fans. For a more subdued on ice experience, couples can make their way to Nathan Phillips Square for a few arm-in-arm laps around the rink. Partners can break out the long white gloves and black bowtie at the Canadian Opera Company in the Four Seasons Center for the Performing Arts.

Paris was made for romance. Of course, nothing is more romantic than nighttime views from the top of Eiffel Tower. A late-afternoon walk along the River Seine to watch the dramatic tango dancers, or a stroll through the hidden alleyways with their charming bars and eateries makes for a few pleasurable hours of coziness. Shared conversation over a glass of wine at Clos de Montmartre gives couples down time in a beautiful setting. Couples will definitely want to make their ways to Bois de Vincennes Park where they’ll discover the Temple of Love on an island in the middle of the lake. It can be accessed by footbridge or rowboat.

Biscayne offers couples opportunities to explore the nation’s largest marine park. History buffs will be enchanted with Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove . The Venetian Pool, a historic swimming pool with stone bridges and waterfalls, offers a mix of beauty and tranquility. Next read: Miami beaches

Santorini is a group of five Greek Islands in the southern Cyclades. This is the premier destination for romance in all of Greece. Oia is renowned for its famous sunset views, but will also dazzle couples with its panoramic views, stunning architecture, and delectable Greek cuisine. In fact, combining an Oia sunset with a scrumptious dinner at Ambrosia restaurant will make for incredible memories. A ride up or down the Fira cliffs on the modern Santorini Cable Car is not only fast, but offers spectacular views. Hot Springs and volcano mudbath tours from Old Port provide a sensual few hours of fun.

Romance is in the air on the Emerald Isle . The socially conscious couple may want to spend time in Dublin’s Temple Bar district where they’ll find the Amnesty International Fair Trade Shop among numerous other stores, restaurants, and art galleries. Vintage Tea Tours acquaint couples with Dublin on a double-decker bus tour while enjoying afternoon tea delicacies with 1950s jazz music. It doesn’t get much more romantic than touring Ireland’s Ancient East, land of Vikings, high kings, heroes, and castles. Adventurous couples will get their thrills from a last minute getaway to Ireland’s Atlantic Coast as they rock climb sea stacks, kayak off Renvyle Beach, or cycle the Wild Atlantic Way.

Luxembourg is probably the most interesting country in Europe, and is definitely the most diverse. In the Ardennes region, visitors will find a majority of the country’s castles. A last minute getaway to charming Vianden can include a tour of Vianden Castle and panoramic views of Our Valley. A quick visit to Remich means seeing the best of the Moselle wine region where couples can taste and learn about local wines. Luxembourg City is teeming with historic treasures including the Grand Ducal Palace and the Bock Casements. Wherever couples choose to land, they can be sure the local cuisine will be exquisite, since Luxembourg has a higher density of star rated restaurants than any country in the world.

Vermont is a favorite year-round travel destination for couples planning a last minute getaway . Autumn is stunning with its displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves in late September or early October. In winter, couples can hit the ski slopes and take in the beautiful scenery together. Besides pleasant spring snow skiing, couples can also visit one of the many sugarhouses making maple syrup. Summer brings camping, fly fishing, and golfing, plus a plethora of festivals and celebrations. Those who thrive on arts and culture will get plenty of satisfaction in Vermont with an abundance of museums, galleries, sculpture parks, artisan shops, and even a sweet trip to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory. Places to Visit in VT

Holland is home to Vincent Van Gogh, one of Europe’s most famous artists. A last minute getaway to Amsterdam can include a trip to the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of his work, but visiting his home in the Brabant region can be equally fun. A trip to one of Holland’s famous wellness centers could be just what the doctor ordered for the harried couple. Flower and gardening enthusiasts can take their getaway to Lisse and the annual tulip festival in April. Cycling is a big pastime in Holland, and couples who enjoy the sport will find plenty of last minute tours like the Super Tulip Tour or the Windmills and Pastures Tour.

If you are interested in hiking, watch this spectacular video of Besseggen Ridge, Norway.

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Weekend ideas, luxury escapes, romantic spas, augusta, ga.

Augusta is a gracious southern city whose river-side location, tree-lined avenues and wonderful historic district and offer visitors the perfect weekend destination. Conclusion

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The 25 Best Couples Vacations Around the World for 2024-2025

When thinking about the best couples vacations around the world, it would be easy to highlight obvious places like Paris and Venice, but our aim for this list is to go beyond the clichés and give you ideas for romantic getaways you might not have thought of. After all, some of the best bonding experiences come from exploring a new place together and making memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're planning a honeymoon , anniversary trip , birthday vacation or some other kind of romantic getaway , these couples trip ideas have something for everyone.

Taking into account the top travel trends of 2024 , we curated a list of couples vacations that offer a wide range of experiences for every taste and budget. Whether you're just planning a quick getaway close to home or are looking for mythical places that are worth jetting around the world for, consider this list your go-to guide for the best couples vacations to take in 2024-2025.

Umbria, Italy

The secret is out about Umbria, Italy's green heart. Right in the center of the country, only a couple of hours from Rome, it looks a lot like Tuscany but without the crowds. Expect rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, Medieval hill towns, and country retreats. Oh and did we mention the food? In particular, Umbria is known for black truffles and artisanal charcuterie. The top towns to visit include Orvieto, Perugia, and Assisi, but it's a good idea to rent a car so you can explore the countryside too.

Where to Stay: Castello di Reschio is a luxury boutique hotel in an 11th century castle owned by a count who also happens to be an architect and designed the exceedingly chic property himself. Vocabolo Moscatelli is a design-centric hotel in a 12th-century monastery in a small town near Perugia.

Vienna, Austria

Forget Paris—Vienna is one of the most beautiful European capitals and if you and your spouse love history and culture, you'll have more than enough to do no matter the season. The Austrian capital consistently ranks as the world's most liveable city and some of the things that make it so liveable (good culture and entertainment, reliable infrastructure) make it a great place to visit too. Between the imperial palaces, myriad art museums, classical concerts, and cozy coffeehouses, it's the perfect destination for a European city break.

Where to Stay: A member of the Leading Hotels of the World, Hotel Sacher Vienna is the city's historic grand dame and home to the original Sacher-torte. For a more modern take on Viennese hospitality, the buzzy new Rosewood Vienna is your best bet.

The Maldives

This island nation ranks among the best honeymoon destinations and one of the best destinations for an anniversary trip . It's no wonder—the beach resorts set on private islands are made for romantic getaways. Whether you and your spouse want to simply relax on the beaches or pursue more active pursuits like snorkeling, jet skiing, or practicing sunrise yoga, you'll find plenty of opportunities to relax and recharge together.

Where to Stay: Sister resorts JOALI Maldives and JOALI Being focus on artful stays and wellness, respectively.

An African safari is a classic couples trip and one of the best safari destinations is the Serengeti in Tanzania. January through March is calving season for the wildebeest in the southern Serengeti, which will then start moving toward Kenya in a phenomenon known as the Great Migration. But no matter when you visit the Serengeti, you're sure to see plenty of wildlife and unforgettable experiences like a hot air balloon ride over the savannah. For a bit of a beach escape at the end of your safari, add on a few days in Zanzibar.

Where to Stay: Serengeti Bushtops Camp and Roving Bushtops are small boutique camps set within the Serengeti National Park. Meanwhile, Singita Sabora Tented Camp and Singita Sasakwa Lodge are located nearby in the Grumeti Game Reserve, a private concession dedicated to conservation.

For outdoorsy couples who love to spend time in nature and want a bit of a digital detox, Vermont is a great choice. Known as the Green Mountain State, it has plenty of beautiful places to go hiking or skiing in the winter, quaint New England towns, and opportunities to enjoy lake life. Every season brings its own charms, but the fall foliage in Vermont is especially beautiful. And while you might associate all-inclusive resorts with the Caribbean, one of the country's best all-inclusive hotels is located in Barnard, Vermont.

Where to Stay: Twin Farms in Barnard is an all-inclusive Relais & Châteaux resort where you can explore the trails, picnic by the pond, and go fishing or foraging. The Woodstock Inn & Resort in the quaint town of Woodstock oozes historic New England charm.

Porto, Portugal

Portugal's second largest city has much of the same charm as Lisbon, but is a bit less crowded. In this hilly city, you'll enjoy spotting azulejos (the traditional tiles that cover Portuguese buildings), sampling Portuguese cuisine, strolling along the banks of the Douro River, and touring historic port cellars like Graham's Lodge, where the British royal family's port wine is aged. It's also a good jumping off point to visit the scenic Douro Valley wine region.

Where to Stay: To be in the center of everything, Maison Albar Hotels - Le Monumental Palace is a great choice. This member of the Leading Hotels of the World has fantastic service, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a wonderful spa. Vila Foz Hotel & Spa , a member of Design Hotels, is housed in a historic mansion overlooking the Atlantic.

Miami, Florida

For the fun-loving couple that wants to go somewhere with nice beaches, trendy restaurants, flamboyant hotels, buzzing nightlife, and a dash of art and design, it's hard to beat Miami. From the sleek Design District and hip Wynwood to flashy South Beach, there's something for everyone. You can take in art at the Perez Museum, dine at a celebrity chef's restaurant, relax on the beach, and go salsa dancing in Little Havana all in a day.

Where to Stay: In a city where each hotel is more over-the-top than the last, the Faena Miami Beach takes the cake. For a more subdued stay, check into the Asian-inspired Setai Miami Beach , the Betsy , or Acqualina Resort & Residences for Mediterranean vibes.

Phuket, Thailand

For a tropical romantic getaway with a dash of culture and deliciously spicy cuisine, you can't go wrong with a trip to Phuket, the largest island in Thailand. Expect beautiful beaches, quaint Sino-Portuguese architecture in the main town, fantastic food, and legendary nightlife. On a trip to Phuket, you can go kayaking and snorkeling, try a traditional Thai massage, take a cooking class, and even visit an elephant sanctuary. Many couples combine Phuket with a few days in Bangkok and perhaps a mountain destination like Chiang Mai.

Where to Stay: Located on a secluded cove on the northern side of the island, Trisara is ideal for couples whose priorities are relaxing rather than nightlife. Anantara Layan Phuket Resort is also highly rated.

Cape Town, South Africa

South Africa's capital is a vibrant waterfront city that makes a great honeymoon or anniversary trip for couples who crave beautiful scenery and a variety of experiences. The city has a thriving art scene, bustling waterfront full of shops and restaurants, as well as plenty of chances to bask in nature, whether you want to hike Table Mountain or spot penguins on Boulders Beach. It's also easy to do a day trip or overnight to the Cape Winelands or add on a safari in Kruger National Park.

Where to Stay: Ellerman House is an intimate Relais & Châteaux hotel with a formidable art collection, fantastic views of the coast, and a couple of standalone villas in addition to rooms in the main building. The Silo Hotel , meanwhile, is a tour de force of African design above the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art on the V&A Waterfront.

José Ignacio, Uruguay

Sometimes compared to Montauk, José Ignacio is Uruguay's coolest beach town, which draws people from neighboring Argentina as well as in-the-know travelers from the U.S. and Europe. And since it's in the southern hemisphere, it's the perfect warm weather escape during North American winters. Over the past few years, it's become a destination for art world insiders (a James Turrell Skyspace was inaugurated in 2021). It's also a good base for day trips to places like Punta del Este and Garzón, where you can visit the award-winning Bodega Garzón winery and dine at one of celebrity chef Francis Mallmann's restaurants.

Where to Stay: Family-owned Vik Retreats has not one but three art-focused hotels in and around José Ignacio ( Bahia Vik , Playa Vik , and Estancia Vik ). Posada Ayana is home to the aforementioned Turrell Skyspace.

Basque Country, Spain

For an alternative to Barcelona and Madrid, consider a trip to Basque Country in northern Spain. The area has a very large concentration of Michelin stars, making it a must for foodies. The most charming city in the region is San Sebastián, which is known for its beautiful beach and quaint city center full of narrow lanes packed with tapas bars (known as pintxos bars here). Bilbao is also worth visiting for its historic city center and the Guggenheim Bilbao, a feat of modern architecture with wonderful exhibitions.

Where to Stay: Maria Cristina, a Luxury Collection Hotel has been an elegant beacon of hospitality since 1912. Gran Hotel Domine in Bilbao has a sleek, modern design and a convenient location across the street from the Guggenheim Bilbao.

Agra, India

A journey to India to see the Taj Mahal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience—and what better destination for a couples trip than to visit the monument Mughal emperor Shah Jahan built as a memorial for his beloved wife? It's worth an early wake-up call to go right when the monument opens at sunrise. There's an incredibly strong spiritual aura of peace and tranquility in the morning, before the crowds descend. And aside from the Taj Mahal, it's worth visiting historic sites like Agra Fort.

Where to Stay: Oberoi Amarvilas is the height of luxury, with white glove service, a massive pool, and views of the Taj Mahal. Guests of ITC Mughal, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Agra rave about the spa and manicured gardens.

For jet-setting couples who love the sea and the city, this Caribbean island with a French flair is the best of both worlds. On a romantic getaway here, you and your significant other can spend your days relaxing on beautiful beaches before spending evenings indulging in delicious food and nightlife in Gustavia, the island's capital. Pack your most stylish swimwear and get ready for a swanky island getaway. Or don't pack anything at all—there are plenty of chic boutiques where you can engage in some retail therapy.

Where to Stay: Le Sereno is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World with private villas and a pool overlooking the beach. Opened in the 1950s, Eden Rock , now a member of the Oetker Collection, has welcomed famous guests like Greta Garbo, Peggy Guggenheim, and Lee Radziwill.

Istanbul, Turkey

This bustling, cosmopolitan city where Europe meets Asia is one of the world's most mythical places. Once the seat of the Roman empire, the Byzantine empire, and the Ottoman empire, Istanbul is packed with incredible historic sites like Topkapi Palace and the Hagia Sophia, as well as bustling markets like the Grand Bazaar and modern art museums. If you and your spouse enjoy exploring big, busy cities, then Istanbul might just be the place for you.

Where to Stay: Çirağan Kempinski Palace is a legendary grand dame in an Ottoman palace overlooking the Bosphorus where you and your spouse can bond during a Turkish hammam treatment. The Peninsula Istanbul is the city's buzzy new luxury hotel in the Galataport district.

Savannah, Georgia

Take a big dose of history, a pinch of southern hospitality, and excellent cuisine, stir them up and you've got the recipe for a great couples trip in Savannah. Established in 1733, this charming city has cobblestone streets lined with stately homes, parks full of live oaks and Spanish moss, great shops, and a fantastic restaurant and bar scene. According to some, the city is also very haunted and there are plenty of ghost tours led by guides who will point out haunted houses and tell dark tales of murder and mayhem.

Where to Stay: The Perry Lane Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel has a fun rooftop bar and a bit of a retro design. The Alida Savannah , a member of Marriott's Tribute Portfolio, is housed in a converted warehouse on the riverfront and has a mid-century modern-inspired design.

Loire Valley, France

Sure, Paris may be more popular for couples, but if you want to see another side of France, consider a romantic getaway to the Loire Valley. About an hour from Paris by train, the area is known for its many Renaissance castles and small villages that look like something out of a fairytale. Some of the best castles to visit are the Château de Chambord, the Château de Chenonceau, and the Château du Clos Lucé, where Leonardo Da Vinci lived. Wine lovers should plan to visit the wineries in Sancerre, which produce crisp white wines beloved around the world.

Where to Stay: Aside from visiting castles, you can stay in one. The Hôtel Château du Grand-Lucé was built in 1760 and has been restored to its original glory with precious antiques and manicured gardens. Les Hauts de Loire was built as a 19th-century hunting lodge and is now a Relais & Châteaux hotel known for its Michelin-starred restaurant and cooking school.

Marfa, Texas

Art-loving couples should plan to make a pilgrimage to Marfa, a little town near the Mexican border with an outsized art scene. Ever since Donald Judd moved here in the 1970s and created the Chinati Foundation on an old army base, the town has attracted an artsy crowd. Many little galleries have popped up around town and it might be the only place in the U.S. where hipsters rub elbows with cowboys at dive bars like the Lost Horse Saloon. It's also close to Big Bend National Park, so it would be easy to combine art-spotting in Marfa with a hiking trip.

Where to Stay: Hotel Saint George is the town's most design-forward place to stay. For couples who don't mind roughing it a bit, El Cosmico is a collection of airstream trailers, yurts, tents and teepees that draws a bohemian crowd.

Kyoto, Japan

Japanese traditions live on in Kyoto, where couples can visit Shinto shrines like the famed Fushimi Inari Taisha with its bright orange gates, partake in tea ceremonies, and explore the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Go in the spring for cherry blossom season or in the fall to admire the changing colors of the leaves. No matter when you go, you'll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious sushi, ramen, and other Japanese specialties and admire beautiful ceramics and other objects in the shops.

Where to Stay: Guests praise the wonderful staff, luxurious onsen, and delicious food at Hotel the Mitsui, a Luxury Collection Hotel . Ace Hotel Kyoto has a hip vibe and free bikes that guests can use to get around town.

Napa Valley and Sonoma County, California

Not just an easy escape for San Franciscans, northern California wine country draws travelers from all over the U.S. and beyond. Savoring gastronomic delights at Michelin-starred restaurants, wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and scenic bike rides are just some of the activities couples can enjoy in this bucolic region. The laid-back vibes make it easy for couples to unwind and reconnect.

Where to Stay: Guest reviews of Montage, Healdsburg say that the property "transcends expectations," with special mention of the professional staff and delicious cuisine. Foodies celebrating a special occasion should book a stay at Single Thread Farms , which is known for its Michelin three-star restaurant and personalized service.

Paros, Greece

For a Greek Island escape without the crowds, consider one of the smaller Cycladic islands such as Paros. Comprising a handful of whitewashed villages, sandy beaches, and hidden coves, Paros is coming onto the radar of savvy travelers. The main town of Naoussa has a lively port, cute boutiques, and plenty of bars and restaurants where you can sample traditional and creative Greek cuisine.

Where to Stay: Parilio , a member of Design Hotels, is a popular choice for honeymoons and minimoons. Cosme, a Luxury Collection Resort has a great location right on the beach but within walking distance of Naoussa.

Machu Picchu, Peru

Adventurous couples ready to embark on a bucket list trip should set their sights on Machu Picchu in Peru. Start your trip with a few days in Cusco so you can get acclimated to the altitude before taking the luxurious Hiram Bingham train by Belmond up to the Incan citadel. Active travelers can also opt to hike the Inca Trail Route, which takes four days, or just hike the last section, which takes a day.

Where to Stay: Guests rave that Sanctuary Lodge, a Belmond Hotel is "above and beyond" and "well worth the price." Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a popular choice in Aguas Calientes, where you can catch the train that takes you to Machu Picchu.

Marrakech, Morocco

Morocco's most dynamic city is a feast for the senses. From the bustling markets like Jemaa El Fna to peaceful gardens and riads, there's so much to do. Cultured couples should make sure to visit the Musée Yves Saint Laurent and the Jardin Majorelle, haggle in the souks, and sip Moroccan mint tea or coffee at Bacha, a beautiful colonial-inspired café inside the Musée des Confluences. You can even do a sidecar tour of the medina with Marrakech Insiders.

Where to Stay: The Royal Mansour and La Mamounia are both members of the Leading Hotels of the World, so you can expect top notch service at both. The former was created by King Mohammed VI as a celebration of Moroccan artisanship, while the latter recently celebrated its centenary.

Sydney, Australia

If you and your sweetie are itching for a far-flung trip, consider a couples getaway to the land down under. Sydney is a popular choice, as it's got a winning combination of urban vibes and beautiful beaches. Aside from the famed opera house on the harbor, you'll find great museums and sites in the CBD, hip restaurants and bars in cool neighborhoods like Surry Hills, and sandy beaches like Bondi Beach, with its famous saltwater pool.

Where to Stay: The Old Clare Hotel is a hip boutique hotel with an industrial-chic design in a pair of heritage buildings in Chippendale. Prefer to stay by the beach? QT Bondi puts you right in the heart of Bondi Beach.

Luang Prabang, Laos

Ready to get off the beaten path? This under-the-radar Southeast Asian city may not have bucket list sites like Angkor Wat, but it's a beautiful, relaxing, and very affordable destination. A former French colony, it has a fascinating mix of French and Buddhist architecture and culture. You can do a sunset cruise on the Mekong, shop at the night market, visit Buddhist temples, and head out of town to swim in Kuang Si Falls.

Where to Stay: At the Avani+ Luang Prabang you'll get a luxurious experience without paying five-star hotel prices. Rosewood Luang Prabang is a romantic resort with a gorgeous design and excellent service.

Ancient history and adventure collide in Egypt. Most tours of the country start in Cairo, with a visit to the Pyramids of Giza. In 2024, the Grand Egyptian Museum is finally slated to open, making it a great time to go. Then, of course, you should visit Luxor and the Valley of the Kings, where you can descend into incredibly preserved ancient tombs painted with figures and hieroglyphics. Cruise down the Nile and end in Aswan, visiting incredible temples along the way.

Where to Stay: Marriott Mena House in Cairo has views of the Pyramids, which can be seen from the manicured grounds. The Marsam Hotel in Luxor is popular among visiting archeologists. In Aswan, check into the Sofitel Legend Old Cataract , where Agatha Christie penned Death on the Nile .

21 Best Vacation Spots for Couples in the US

Written by Shandley McMurray and Lavanya Sunkara Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

If you're looking for a way to rekindle your spark, it's time to book a trip to one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US. While it's easy to put off a holiday by blaming it on work, kids, or scheduling conflicts, investing some much-needed time in each other is just what the love doctor ordered.

Luckily, you won't have to travel far to reignite those fireworks—America has a slew of breathtaking, secluded, romantic, and bustling holiday spots perfect for your next romantic escape.

Whether you're a fan of canoodling on a beach, hiking through lush forest, or zipping down a mountain on skis, you'll find the perfect place to visit for a loved-up holiday on our list of the best vacation spots for couples in the US.

1. Santa Fe, New Mexico

2. new york, new york, 3. yellowstone national park, wyoming, 4. scottsdale, arizona, 5. savannah, georgia, 6. kauai, hawaii, 7. napa valley, california, 8. molokai, hawaii, 9. snowmass, colorado, 10. big sur, california, 11. san francisco, california, 12. key west, florida, 13. charleston, south carolina, 14. martha's vineyard, massachusetts, 15. key largo, florida, 16. bar harbor, maine, 17. new orleans, louisiana, 18. sedona, arizona, 19. cannon beach, oregon, 20. hocking hills, ohio, 21. dallas, texas, map of vacation spots for couples in the us.

With a distinctive architectural style of low-slung, earth-colored adobe buildings found nowhere else in the country, New Mexico's capital is idyllic in all seasons.

Santa Fe comes alive with lilacs and forsythias in the spring, lanterns adorn rooftops as the smell of burning piñon wood fills the air in the winter. Warmer months bring al fresco dining at top-notch restaurants serving authentic Southwestern fare, as well as outdoor festivals, and markets selling folk art.

As for fun things to do in Santa Fe , there are plenty: Take a stroll through the Downtown Plaza and side streets, stopping at Chapel Loretto to admire its mysterious spiral staircase. Choose from art galleries on Canyon Road , including the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum , boasting the largest collection of her Southwestern-inspired landscapes.

A short drive from downtown, you can get in touch with your inner child at the Meow Wolf immersive art exhibition. Once here, it's easy to see why Santa Fe is one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US. The area is also dotted with stellar resorts that offer sumptuous amenities to help set the mood.

Sleepless in Seattle made the top of the Empire State Building a must-visit for couples, and it's one of the most romantic spots in New York. The city that never sleeps has so much to offer in terms of quixotic attractions and unique things to do .

Serenade your sweetheart in a rowboat on Central Park Lake surrounded by stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, catch a Broadway show, enjoy a delicious meal at a gourmet restaurant, and end the evening holding hands under the stars of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History .

In the winter, there's no better place to visit than New York for the holiday lights and decorative storefronts. Ice skate at Wollman rink on the East Side of Central Park to the tune of festive songs and then share a frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity 3 just a few blocks away.

Visit the parks in New York City for a quiet stroll hand in hand, ride the tram to Roosevelt Island, or spend time in some of the city's most romantic museums (like the Frick Collection and the Museum of Sex ).

America's first national park is a 2.2-million-acre wilderness rich with wildlife and natural wonders, from the awe-inspiring Old Faithful and Steamboat geysers to the Grand Canyon waterfall of Yellowstone.

Spend a few nights at Lake Yellowstone Hotel & Cabins , the oldest hotel within a national park, overlooking the largest high-elevation lake, or at the world's largest log cabin at the Old Faithful Inn to fully experience all that Yellowstone has to offer.

There are plenty of things to do in Yellowstone beyond geyser-watching. Visitors can go on a boating expedition on Yellowstone Lake, explore the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone in the Canyon area via its top hiking trails , and marvel at the rainbow-colored waters of the iconic Midway Geyser Basin's Grand Prismatic Spring. Wildlife lovers can take a safari through America's Serengeti at Lamar Valley for large herds of bison and sightings of elk, pronghorns, and gray wolves.

Make the nearby frontier town of Cody, Wyoming a stopover for a truly Wild West experience, with a night rodeo and log cabins of the infamous outlaws, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, and stay at the iconic Buffalo Bill's Irma Hotel , built by the town's founder, the legendary Buffalo Bill Cody . This truly is one of the most romantic vacation spots for couples in the US.

If you're hoping to explore the park without elbowing through masses of people, the best time to visit Yellowstone is during the spring or fall. At this time, the weather is ideal, and the crowds have thinned dramatically.

Scottsdale is desert elegance at its best, with incredible luxurious resorts, spas, and golf courses in a glorious setting. Take a stroll down Main Street, pop into one of the museums, and take advantage of dozens of restaurants.

As one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US, there are plenty of romantic attractions and things to do in Scottsdale . Wake up early for a memorable hot air balloon ride over the Superstition Mountains and enjoy a picnic back on land.

If you've got an appetite for adventure, get your boots dirty as you make the arduous assent up Camelback Mountain . You'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Valley, bragging rights, and, most importantly, an unforgettable experience with your lover.

Architecture fans can take a 20-minute drive out to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright's winter home, for a tour of the headquarters of the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.

Accommodation: Top-Rated Resorts in Scottsdale

As the oldest city in the Peach State, Savannah is charming, with oak trees adorned with cascading Spanish moss, stately mansions, and historic squares. With warm weather year-round and thriving cultural and culinary scenes, Savannah makes for an ideal Southern getaway.

There are so many tourist attractions in Savannah that you'll never get bored. Savor the impressive gardens and the magnificent water fountain of Forsyth Park , which is considered one of the best places to visit in Georgia . Take a walk through the tree-shaded streets to River Street overlooking the Savannah River, where you can shop for souvenirs and have authentic Southern cuisine at riverside restaurants.

Find out which houses in the Historic District are haunted on a walking ghost tour . Take a drive out to Bluff Drive in the Isle of Hope to see antebellum houses and quaint cottages across from the Intracoastal Waterway.

There are few places to visit in the US that exude as much romance as Hawaii . The sugar-white sandy beaches, azure waves, majestic mountains, and glimmering waterfalls are only a few of the area's most amorous attractions. Kauai, also known as the Garden Isle, is one of the state's most spectacular isles.

While here, be sure to book a helicopter sightseeing tour so that you can explore the impassable sections of the island's dramatic coastline from above. Waimea Canyon is one of the most stunning tourist attractions on Kauai . Sometimes referred to as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," this picturesque wonderland is about as dreamy as you'd hope for a romantic holiday.

It's impossible to visit Kauai without hitting the beach at some point during your vacation. Luckily, there is a bevy of best beaches to choose from, and though it seems impossible, one is always more beautiful than the next.

Picture this: you're sitting beside your beloved, clasping hands while inhaling the sweet scent of grapes, soaking up the sun's last rays as it sets slowly behind undulating hills that highlight the Napa Valley in breathtaking hues of pink, yellow, and gold. Can you get more romantic than that?

A seemingly endless number of luxurious resorts have taken root in Napa Valley, which means you won't be at a loss for somewhere lavish to stay on your romantic getaway in California. One stay at the luxe Auberge du Soleil in Rutherford will make all other resorts pale in comparison.

Dubbed one of the best places to visit in California in winter , the Napa Valley presents winter couples with an ideal time to enjoy lower prices, fewer tourists, and quieter spa days. Speaking of spas, why not soak up some love at Calistoga, one of the most relaxing hot springs resort towns in California? They even boast mudbaths.

Molokai is unlike any other Hawaiian island: the pace is slower, the buildings are shorter than the coconut trees, and there are no mega resorts or luau parties. Known as the "Friendly Isle," it is ideal for experiencing authentic Hawaii, and it boasts a long list of fun and relaxing things to do .

Known for its secluded locale and soft, white sand, Molokai is home to some of the best beaches in Hawaii . So, pack a swimsuit (as if you'd forget), sunblock, and a towel, and head out for a day of canoodling on the beach.

Combine culture with adventure on a hike through Halawa Valley to one of its cascading waterfalls, guided by one of the descendants of the original inhabitants of this lush paradise. Stay at the Hotel Molokai , situated on a peaceful stretch of palm-fringed beach.

Share giant, hot sweet bread spread with cinnamon, butter, or strawberry cream cheese. Burn off those calories by canoeing in the calm waters abounding with sea turtles. Show your love for your partner by picking your own plumerias at the Molokai Plumeria Farm and stringing them together for a lei.

While thousands flock to the trendy ski resorts of Aspen , the neighboring small resort town of Snowmass, Colorado remains uncrowded and unpretentious despite being one of the best ski resorts in Colorado . Located eight miles from downtown Aspen, this winter playground and summer mountain destination enjoys 300 days of sunshine a year.

One of the top attractions & places to visit in Colorado , Snowmass has the second-largest vertical drop in the United States, more than 3,000 acres of mountain terrain, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy its natural beauty on moonlit treks or fly fishing and rafting trips.

If you are visiting in the summer, don't miss the Snowmass Balloon Festival , one of the highest-altitude events of its kind in the country. Don't worry, there are plenty of fabulously romantic resorts to stay at when the snow has melted.

The rugged, mountainous area of California's Central Coast has picturesque views and lodgings ideal for a romantic seaside vacation. In fact, Big Sur is one of the best romantic getaways in California .

The drive to Big Sur, nestled between the stunning seaside town of Carmel and San Simeon, on Highway 1 is breathtaking, hugging the curvy coastline with dramatic ocean views at every turn. Be sure to pack a camera.

There are a ton of things to do in Big Sur . Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a must-visit, home of the most photographed waterfalls in California spilling onto a secluded beach. Point Lobos State Natural Reserve , located on the north end of the Big Sur coast, offers hiking opportunities to witness abundant wildlife and SCUBA adventures.

While there are plenty of resort options, to thoroughly enjoy the beauty of Big Sur, stay at Treebones Resort offering glamping in yurts with comfortable amenities to enjoy rustic solitude with your loved one. For more structure, book a stay at the Esalen Institute , a cliffside retreat center providing workshops to help you better connect with one another.

Or, if you're more in love with snuggling under the stars, try one of the nearby campgrounds .

With incredible views, iconic landmarks, world-class tourist attractions , and delicious food, the City by the Bay is a lovely destination on the Western Coast. Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge at sunset, enjoy a picnic in one of the lush parks , wander the landscaped gardens of San Francisco Botanical Garden , and take a Cable Car ride tour of the city's highlights.

Enjoy a scrumptious meal at one of the finest restaurants in the North Beach or Marina districts, including a great selection of vegan and vegetarian restaurants . Have high tea at the historic Fairmont San Francisco on Nob Hill. Opened in 1907, the hotel is renowned for its elegant lobby and afternoon tea services in Laurel Court on Saturdays and Sundays.

Summertime might bring the fog, but the mist clears just in time to hit the beach. The warm weather makes taking a romantic walking tour of the city even more enjoyable. If you love music, head to the Stern Grove Music Festival (held on Sundays) at the Sigmund Stern Grove for a picnic and groove to the energetic beats.

Not sure where to start with so many amorous options? Depending on how much time you've scheduled, you can plan a one-, two-, or three-day itinerary packed with the most loved-up activities.

Although within driving distance from major cities in Florida, Key West seems like a world away, with quaint streets, breezy beaches , and Conch-style houses flanked by colorful gardens. This island city and crown jewel of the Florida Keys is best explored by bike.

You'll glide past 19th-century storybook cottages with white picket fences, as the aroma and beauty of hibiscus, orchids, plumeria, and exuberant bougainvillea whisk your cares away.

Pretty soon, you will come across the residence of Ernest Hemingway in the heart of the Old Town , where you can get a glimpse into his life and meet the descendants of his six-toed cats.

For outdoor fun, take a sunset sailing cruise, go snorkeling in the warm waters, or take a seaplane to nearby Dry Tortugas National Park . Many of the best attractions in this romantic town involve soft, golden sand or perfectly manicured gardens.

Take a moment to celebrate your love by watching the sunset and the street performances at the happening Mallory Square , within walking distance from the famous Duval Street . Then head back to one of the town's most plush beach resorts to soak in an infinity pool or your own enormous bathtub.

Charleston is delightful, with its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, majestic oaks, and the scent of magnolia that fills the air in the warmer months. The oldest city in South Carolina offers many unique things to do for couples. Walk along the Battery to enjoy views of Rainbow Row , a series of pastel-colored houses. Shop for local handcrafts and jewelry at the Old City Market, a landmark in the historic district.

Head to the nearby John's Island, a short distance from downtown Charleston, to get baby goat snuggles at Jeremiah Farm & Goat Dairy followed by a picnic near the majestic 500-year-old Angel Oak Tree . If either of you is an avid angler, there are plenty of places to visit for deep-sea fishing .

Explore the surrounding islands by boat and stop by the deserted beaches around Edisto , nicknamed Shell Island , to search for shells with your loved one. Enjoy down-home Southern cuisine on Bowen's Island near Folly Beach .

At night, cuddle up in one of the city's top resorts, which range from beachfront properties to historic accommodations close to the points of interest downtown.

On Martha's Vineyard, you'll find friendly locals, sandy beaches that extend for miles, and warm waters in the summer. This easily accessible island, located five miles south of Cape Cod, is more laid-back than Nantucket and provides a quintessential New England getaway. It has six small towns, each with its own charm. It's also home to some of the best beaches in Massachusetts .

Tourists flock here on day trips from nearby Boston to enjoy all the attractions and things to do on Martha's Vineyard, including shopping at its trendy boutique stores; browsing art galleries; biking on its 44 miles of bike paths, and indulging in delicious seafood. The gingerbread houses in Oak Bluffs , Polly Hill Arboretum , and Chappaquiddick Island are some of the island's main attractions.

Edgartown's Hob Knob Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa , often voted as one of the most romantic hotels on the island, features lovely accommodations, an in-house spa, and a covered porch to sit and watch passersby.

Martha's Vineyard can be reached by ferry from New York, Rhode Island, or Cape Cod. For a faster option, quick flights are available from Boston, New York, and Washington D.C. No wonder it's been dubbed one of the best weekend getaways in Massachusetts .

Read More: From Boston to Martha's Vineyard: Best Ways to Get There

Another resplendent Florida Keys destination tops our list of the best vacation spots for couples in the U.S. Key Largo is a haven for beach lovers, snorkelers, and kayakers who love to wind their way through mangrove forests. This entire town revolves around its main attraction: the ocean.

Dubbed one of the prettiest of the Florida Keys islands, this idyllic spot is one of the most romantic places to visit due to its pristine beaches, natural tourist attractions , and romantic restaurants.

There are so many easy ways to reach this nirvana . It's a mere hour from Miami and has become a popular spot for a day trip . While here, dive or snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, head out on a fishing adventure, or explore a sunken shipwreck—there are so many water-based activities to enjoy à deux.

Make it a weekend trip or, better yet, a week-long vacation. Key Largo's glamorous resorts make it easy to be tempted into a longer stay. Bungalows Key Largo , for instance, will spoil lovers with fine-dining options, floating tiki boats, spa treatments, and lavish private bungalows boasting gardens and oversized soaking tubs.

Bar Harbor may be the launching pad for visiting Acadia National Park , but this bustling coastal city can be a memorable romantic escape for couples. From idyllic lighthouses to museums and artsy shops along Main Street, you can spend days taking in the Pine Tree State's peaceful vibe and quaint tourist attractions .

One of the best small towns in Maine , this pretty place can get crowded in summer, which has been deemed the best time to visit Maine. For this reason, it's best to schedule your trip after Labor Day for quieter streets and attractions, as nice weather still lingers, and vacationing families have gone home.

Wake up early to drive up to Cadillac Mountain and witness the sunrise, followed by an invigorating hike or a leisurely drive along the coast in Acadia National Park. Make sure to pack a picnic basket and enjoy lunch on a beach. Spend the evening relaxing in Agamont Park , strolling along the banks of the bay, or going on a whale watching cruise on the beautiful Frenchman Bay .

The Saltair Inn Waterfront B&B is a particularly charming accommodation on Bar Harbor's Mount Desert Island . It boasts fabulous views, attentive service, and an overtly amorous air.

In terms of finding a top vacation spot for couples in the southern US, New Orleans is about as romantic (and exciting) as they come. Live music enchants loved-up wanderers, while the tempting scent of Cajun cuisine wafts down the city's most vibrant streets.

Spend your days visiting the top tourist attractions in New Orleans . These include The French Quarter (don't miss Bourbon Street ), National WWII Museum , and Jackson Square .

In terms of the best time to visit New Orleans, that depends on what you're looking for in a couples' vacation. No matter when you visit, you'll be serenaded, entertained, and well-fed, but if you're hoping to experience the famed Mardi Gras festivities , book your trip between February and May.

There are plenty of fabulous resorts to choose from in town. As you've already learned, the French Quarter is where it's at, so choosing a hotel in that section is extremely convenient if you're hoping to explore the area by foot. Aim for all-out luxury with a stay in the Maison de la Luz .

Get back to nature, and each other, in the great red sandstone rocks of Sedona, which is one of the most charming small towns in Arizona. A landscape as inspiring as your love story, this natural wonderland is a haven for romance.

Deep canyons, breathtaking views, and a spiritual nature make this one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US. An easy day trip from Phoenix , Sedona is both romantic and intriguing, two attributes that make visitors want to return.

The area's top tourist attractions include Cathedral Rock , Sedona's most photographed attraction, as well as the old town (a.k.a. Uptown Sedona ), the stunning Red Rock Scenic Byway , and Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive . Love to golf together? You're in luck. Sedona is known for its fab golf resorts and gorgeous courses.

Be sure to pack good hiking shoes and a backpack to carry snacks and water, as you'll want to spend the majority of your time hiking the trails and biking the mountain pathways .

You'll be more than happy to fall into a plush bed at the end of the day and, luckily, Sedona's best resorts won't disappoint. That said, if you're so in love with the landscape, which is easy to understand, there are plenty of stellar campgrounds on offer.

Accommodation: Best Spa Resorts in Sedona, AZ

If you've never heard of Cannon Beach, consider this your lucky day. Best known for its towering 235-foot-tall Haystack Rock , this stunning beach is so unique and wonderful, you'd be forgiven for thinking you're on an island in French Polynesia. Not surprisingly, this rock is one of the best attractions on the Oregon Coast , and visiting Cannon Beach is one of the top things to do in Oregon .

Heading the list of the best beaches on the Oregon Coast , Cannon Beach is a gem worthy of a 1,000 photographs. It lies on the coastal edge of the small Oregon town of the same name, an easy, two-hour drive from the attractions of Portland . Here, you'll find cute arcades, candy shops, a glassworks store, and themed restaurants.

The best time to visit Cannon Beach is during low tide, when a whole new world comes to life—literally. This is when the rock pools emerge, and visitors are left to examine the unique and colorful creatures left behind by the waves. There are plenty of places to stay here, so be prepared to spend the night.

Read More: Plan the Best Oregon Coast Road Trip

Marked by soaring cliffs, waterfalls, craggy caves, and lush forests, Ohio's Hocking Hills region is one of the Midwest's most beautiful destinations. Located 50 minutes outside the main city of Columbus , it seems a world away from the bustle.

Even during the busiest season, you won't see crowds at the natural attractions of Ash Cave and Old Man's Falls in Hocking Hills State Park, one of the best national and state parks in Ohio . While you're in the park, don't miss a visit to the tranquil Cedar Falls , one of the most romantic and best waterfalls in Ohio .

Get that adrenaline pumping at Hocking Hills Canopy Tours as you whiz through the air on a zipline above the gushing Hocking River and verdant forest, an experience amplified by the brilliant colors of autumn. If your idea of romance involves heart-racing action, trust the guides at High Rock Adventures to rappel down cliffs.

Spend a few nights in the luxury yurt at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls , which comes equipped with cozy furnishings and a fireplace.

You're guaranteed a wide variety of tourist attractions to enjoy in Dallas , the ninth-largest city in the US. Stroll together through the lush Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden , visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science , or ogle the amazing creatures on display at the Dallas World Aquarium .

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza resides in the room from which Lee Harvey Oswald lay in wait to shoot President John F. Kennedy. The towering John F. Kennedy Memorial lies just a few blocks away.

For those who'd like to up the romance with a great meal or spa treatment, you're in luck. There are plenty of fabulous restaurants and spas peppered throughout this great city. Make time to explore the various neighborhoods, including the sprawling downtown core , and if you're a fan of the outdoors, be sure to save a day to explore the nearby lakes in Dallas .

Dallas is a haven for romantic resorts like The Las Colinas Resort , which boasts sprawling pools, tennis courts, two 18-hole golf courses, and a luxe spa.

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19 Romantic Weekend Getaways for Couples to Enjoy Together Time

Including inexpensive packages, relaxing destinations and the best places to celebrate an anniversary.

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Even the best relationships could use a little refresh once in a while. If you and your significant other have settled into a routine of monotonous dinner dates, shake things up with a romantic getaway. While vacations can take months of planning and saving, a long weekend escape can be fun, affordable and have a big dose of what almost every relationship needs more of—spontaneity! To help you get away as soon as you can put in for PTO, we’ve compiled this list of romantic weekend getaways for couples.

Speaking of real-life romance, our team members and their significant others hand-picked many of these spots based on their recent experiences criss-crossing the country for travel research and the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards.

Stephanie Inn, Cannon Beach, Oregon

Pacific Northwest peeps, put this romantic spot on your road-trip radar. By driving just four hours from Seattle or 90 minutes from Portland, you'll be at the Stephanie Inn , a serene, kid-free beachfront retreat. Help yourself to fresh-baked cookies in the lobby and get cozy in your room, which may even have a killer view of the famed Haystack Rock. "A moody beach, fantastic food—which includes a free wine & beer gathering—and amazing service made this stay one of our favorite trips ever," said a Good Housekeeping team member who visited with her spouse.

The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Located in the northern part of the state, Coeur d’Alene is filled with lush forests and breathtaking lake views. "It's an absolutely stunning setting for a romantic getaway," raved a Good Housekeeping team member who visited last year with her husband. "We enjoyed the tranquility of the beautiful trees, lake setting and the downtown area with shops, bars and restaurants." She stayed in a Lake Tower room at The Coeur d'Alene Golf & Spa Resort , which offers amazing views, private balconies and a gas-burning fireplace. If you're looking for ambience and great food, stop by Beverly’s, which serves up five-star cuisine.

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Sandals Royal Curaçao, Santa Barbara, Curaçao

One of our editors was invited to spend three days at the recently-opened resort. It's all-inclusive and adults only, so it's perfect for couples looking to get away from it all. Rooms start at $317, per person, per night. The resort has the luxe Sandals accommodations you're used to, but you'll particularly love all the romantic touches at this location, like the heart-shaped beach bungalow you see here, bicycles you can use to tour the 3,000-acre property, al fresco dining at 11 restaurants and the incredible views that only Curaçao can offer. What's more, your meals aren't limited to what they have on property — this is the first time the company has offered off-site dining, so you can enjoy local cuisine from restaurants around the island. Our editor went to Sal the Kitchen, and had the most amazing time (the whole outdoor space was covered in string lights and greenery).

Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows, Santa Monica, California

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the five-acre Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows near Santa Monica State Beach offers something that's hard to come by in the LA area—privacy. The property's 1930s-style bungalows boast a private entrance, private terraces, large soaking tubs and awesome views of the sunset. You can even book an intimate sushi experience at the on-site restaurant Soko. When you do feel like mingling, the resort's activities include a chef-led tour of the Santa Monica Farmers' Market and poolside movies.

The Parkside Hotel & Spa, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

Steeped in culture and history, Victoria boasts one of the best waterfront walkways anywhere. "Walking around the Victoria waterfront at night is lovely," said a Good Housekeeping team member, who visited the city with her husband. "Many of the historic buildings are lit up, and water taxis are at the ready to take you to any waterfront restaurant." She stayed nearby at The Parkside Hotel & Spa , which features a rooftop garden, indoor koi pond and kitchens or kitchenettes in every room. The cherry on top: The hotel is carbon neutral.

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

If an island vacation sounds like music to your ears, look no further than the enchanting all-inclusive Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino . Memorable adventures like scuba diving and sailing are included in the price. Plus, the property offers an adult-only section, featuring coastal chic rooms including some with swim-up pools and hot tubs. December to April is the best time to visit the DR, so plan accordingly.

Windjammer Landing Resort & Residencies, Castries, St. Lucia

A bucket list-worthy destination for couples, St. Lucia's thermal baths, nature activities and mountain vistas create the perfect backdrop for romance. A Good Housekeeping tester and her boyfriend stayed at the all-inclusive Windjammer Landing Resort & Residencies. "It's incredibly relaxing from the minute you arrive at the resort and are greeted with a rum punch," she said. You can be as active as you want: Our tester noted that couples can spend the entire day on the beach, work up a sweat playing tennis or take a hike that offers incredible views of the island. She thinks the on-site spa is a must-do. "I highly recommend the couples' massage and body scrubs," she said, adding, "the private villas have rooftop whirlpools where you can relax in private surrounded by ocean views." What's more romantic than that?

Omni Homestead Resort, Hot Springs, Virginia

After undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation, the historic Omni Homestead Resort is "ideal for a couples’ getaway —isolated and romantic with the gorgeous mountains and landscapes, high-end amenities and activities for different interests," said one Good Housekeeping tester of their stay. An activity not to miss: Soaking in the warm springs pools, which have special adult-only hours.

Rosewood Sand Hill, Menlo Park, California

Lovers on the West Coast can recharge on the luxurious grounds of the Rosewood Sand Hill , located near the Santa Cruz Mountains. Its Weekend Escape Package, which runs until March 31, consists of late check-out, use of Lucid Air Motors cars and a $100 daily resort credit. Other sweet features of the resort include its signature restaurant, Madera, which serves American cuisine and offers romantic views of the mountains, and the tranquil Sense Spa.

The Standard Spa, Miami Beach, Florida

A wellness hotel just off South Beach, The Standard Spa, Miami Beach focuses on rejuvenation. Couples can enjoy The Gardens, which feature swings and a fire pit, or take advantage of the main pool, infinity pool, arctic plunge pool, Roman waterfall hot tub and mud baths.

Grand Velas, Los Cabos, Mexico

Love is in the air at this all-inclusive, adults-only boutique hotel in Mexico. With amazing amenities and romantic experiences , including curated options of an intimate garden picnic or beach picnic or romantic dinner on the beach, this resort is a couple’s dream. It's a perfect splurge to celebrate a milestone birthday or anniversary.

Salamander Resort, Middleburg, Virginia

With a year-around Season of Romance package, there's never a bad time to visit Salamander Middleburg with your boo. The package, which requires a stay of two nights or more, includes $100 nightly resort credit, welcome bottle of sparkling wine and confection courtesy of the resort’s executive pastry chef. Put your credit toward couples' massages, romantic dinners, a charming trail ride on horseback—or all three.

Snowbird Mountain Lodge, Robbinsville, North Carolina

Without a doubt, Snowbird Mountain Lodge is for lovebirds. Fire pits, front-porch rocking chairs and picnic lunches make this property near the Tennessee border Cupid's pick for couples, especially in the spring and fall. Plus, the lodge includes all meals in your stay, so you'll know the price of your getaway upfront.

Edgewood Tahoe Resort, Stateline, Nevada

Just off of Lake Tahoe sits Edgewood Tahoe Resort —an ideal wintry getaway for couples. You and your sweetie can either hit the slopes, lounge at the spa or combine the two with unique Après Ski Spa Offerings , including the Après Mountain Recovery Massage and Boots Off Recovery Package for worn out feet and legs. If you book a Villa Suite before March 30, you'll score a private snowshoe tour, plus complimentary ice skating, s’mores at the fire pit and Ski Butler service.

Herrington Inn & Spa, Geneva, Illinois

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Windy City? Whisk yourself and your partner just an hour away from Chicago to a room with a fireplace and whirlpool at the riverfront Herrington Inn & Spa . Its couples' getaway package, offered year-around, includes therapeutic massages and a Zen Shower basket with body wash, loofah, walnut body scrub and more. You can even add on rose-petal turndown service or sparkling wine and strawberries.

Inn At Perry Cabin, St. Michaels, Maryland

A quick trip to Maryland’s Eastern Shore (less than 2 hours from DC) is more than worth it when you stay at Inn At Perry Cabin . Not only is the hotel located just off of the serene shore of the Miles River, but it's also home to 26 acres of lush flower gardens you can stroll through at your leisure. Visit during the spring or summer to get the most out of the inn's offerings.

Hotel Valley Ho, Scottsdale, Arizona

Expectant parents will welcome a weekend escape at Hotel Valley Ho . The hotel offers a special package that includes a Kodak Printomatic camera to document every moment, an adorable cactus rattle for the little bun in the oven and a 60-minute Mom-to-Be Massage at VH Spa for Vitality + Health. Outside the hotel, you can dine and shop at the Scottsdale Waterfront and stroll around at the Desert Botanical Garden.

TRENDING NOW: Best Babymoon Destinations Around the World

Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles, Skaneateles, New York

If you can't swing a trip to France, Mirbeau Inn & Spa Skaneateles may be the next best thing. Located in the Finger Lakes region, a few hours from New York City, this charming retreat oozes French country vibes—its outdoor space, in particular, may remind you of Monet's famed painting of water lilies. The spa features a rejuvenating resting area with a heated foot pool, herbal infused sauna and a heated whirlpool with a private bar, all of which are included with the price of your stay.

Woodcliff Hotel & Spa, Fairport, New York

Spacious themed suites are a big draw at Woodcliff Hotel & Spa in upstate New York, near Rochester. Couples can select from art deco, Victorian, Southwestern and more to match their favorite decor style. A Winter Romance Package , available through March 31, includes $150 dinner or spa credit, complimentary breakfast, sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries. The hotel is near 70 acres of hiking trails so don't forget to pack your boots.

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Travel Meant to be Shared

45 Travel Ideas for Couples: The Ultimate Bucket List

Updated on August 28, 2020 • Originally Published December 30, 2019

Couples who travel together, stay together. And that’s not just a saying, but also a proven fact. This article from Lonely Planet explains how travel can increase your bond with your partner. That’s why couples need to find time to vacation regularly. Below are 45 travel ideas to add to your couples’ bucket list .

Whether you use this list to spark an idea for your honeymoon, a weekend getaway, a year-end trip, or anything in between, these wanderlust-worthy locations and ideas are perfect ideas to add to your list. The ideas below range from specific locations to countries to activities, which means that any of these ideas can be adapted easily to a couple at any stage of their relationship. So, get scrolling and don’t forget to let me know what is on your couples’ bucket list in the comments!

What This Post Covers:

Honeymoon and Anniversary Celebration Trips

• 1. Paris – The lights, the city, the food and wine, the Eiffel Tower, the culture. The list goes on and on as to why Paris is a perfect romantic destination. David and I went here as part of our honeymoon, and our favorite part was getting a drink on the Seine and watching the Eiffel tower sparkle at night!
• 2. Rome – Spend your days doing romantic activities like drinking wine, eating plenty of food and taking in the Italian culture. Also – don’t forget to throw a coin in the Trevi fountain before you leave, as legend says that anyone who tosses one in is destined to come back to Rome.
• 3. Punta Cana – One of the most popular honeymoon destinations in the world, Punta Cana is filled with many romantic resorts. Spend your days drinking cocktails by the ocean or exploring the sights around the Dominican Republic.
• 4. Scotland – Walk the cobblestone streets, explore ancient castles and drink plenty of Scotch. While this may not be a beachy vacation, it’s bound to be one full of adventure, history and cozy pubs where you can cuddle up.
• 5. Australia – Go to the land down under where you can find it all – from beaches to vineyards to history. Make this trip one to remember and find a romantic once-in-a-lifetime activity to do, like hiring a hot air balloon to take you over Melbourne.

Trips You Should Splurge On

• 6. Bora Bora – This is on the top of my bucket list! The colors of the water seem unreal, and the scenery seems absolutely gorgeous. Splurge and rent an overwater bungalow. You can spend the day together watching the waters go by from your own private balcony.
• 7. Hawaii – Splurge on your visit to the 50 th state by staying at a classic Hawaiian resort or spend your time hopping between the different islands. Additionally, make this trip even more romantic by having a candlelit dinner on the beach one night.
• 8. Dubai – Dubai is a city known for being a popular vacation destination for millionaires. Join the opulent lifestyle and splurge on this vacation. My suggestion? Stay in the world-famous Burj Khalifa and have a romantic dinner at the top, which is the world’s highest restaurant.
• 9. British Virgin Islands – The British Virgin Islands remain one of the most popular places for celebrities to vacation, which means that this a great place to have a private romantic trip. Splurge on a private resort and take a picturesque snorkeling trip.
• 10. An extended vacation – No matter your destination, splurge by traveling for at least two weeks. You’ll find that letting yourself relax by forgetting about real-world worries over a prolonged vacation will bring you two closer together than when you left.

International Itineraries

• 11. Take in the sights of London – Having been to London twice, I highly recommend that all couples take the time to visit. It’s a city that can fit any budget and has a plethora of things to do. And luckily, London is also full of romantic activities: from dining together at an authentic pub, to taking in a West End show, the opportunities to get closer to your partner are endless.
• 12. Visit the Great Wall in China – Visit one of the seven wonders of the world. Take a trip to one of the biggest tourist destinations in the west and then spend the rest of your trip taking in China. Luckily, Beijing is also full of other romantic activities, such as a romantic dinner or a resort-style hotel.
• 13. Eat Sushi in Japan – This is second on my bucket list! One of my favorite for a couples’ bucket list is to take in the sights of Japan while eating as much sushi as your heart desires. You can continue to strengthen your relationship by visiting the love shrine in Kyoto, where you can confirm your relationship at the temple.
• 14. Sail Down the Canals in Venice – What says, “love” more than a gondola ride for two down the canals of Venice? Make your boat trip extra romantic by hiring your gondolier around sunset. Spend your ride taking in the city at its most beautiful time of the day.
• 15. Oktoberfest in Munich – While this may not be the most romantic trip on the list, it’s definitely a must-do! Having been to the Weisn twice now, I highly recommend this trip. It’s a fun festival that’s only made better when you have your partner by your side, drinking just as many liters of beer as you!

Trips to Take over the Holidays

• 16. Christmas Markets in Europe – Almost every notable town in Europe has a Christmas market around the holidays. Make it a romantic trip by hopping around and deciding which market is the best! Don’t know where to start? Take a look at this guide to the best European Christmas markets from Helene in Between !
• 17. Quebec, Canada – Quebec completely changes at Christmas to a city that is full of holiday cheer. From Christmas markets to food tours to pop-up bars, there are plenty of holiday activities to do within the city. Make it extra romantic by taking memorable couples’ photos in this snow-laden town.
• 18. Skiing in Aspen – Nothing is more romantic than spending a day on the slopes. Even if skiing isn’t your deal, you can spend your après-ski time taking in the breathtaking views while having a glass of champagne with your partner in one of the many romantic restaurants.
• 19. New Year’s Eve in New York City – Countdown to midnight at the New Year’s capital of the world. Watch the ball in person at Times Square. Or if you don’t want to stand in the cold for the ball drop itself, many of the restaurants in Times Square also offer all-inclusive deals that allow you to be close to the action without the cold.
• 20. A resort in the Caribbean – Spend your Christmas vacation in the tropics! Pick one of many resorts in the Caribbean and spend your days sipping drinks by the water. Make your trip extra romantic by spending a day at the spa, just the two of you.

Food & Wine Experiences

• 21. Tapas in Spain – Tapas, an appetizer or snack, are a big part of Spanish culture. Tapas can range from cold selections (like olives and cheese) to hot (like Spanish omelets or fried potatoes). Spend a trip trying a wide variety of tapas by heading to a tourist-friendly town like Barcelona and then hopping from bar to bar, eating as many tapas as your heart and stomach desire.
• 22. Wine Tasting in California – Spend a week trying the best wine America has to offer. Book one of the many California wine resorts and spend a week drinking as much wine as your heart desires (if it were me, I’d be channeling the movie Wine Country the entire time). Make your trip extra romantic by taking the time to have a picnic at one of the many vineyards. Bring some cheese and crackers and enjoy the scenery over your lunch!
• 23. Raclette in Switzerland – Take a fondue dinner to a different level by trying out a raclette in Switzerland. The dish starts off by heating a side of cheese over a fire and then scraping it over something hearty like meat and potatoes. You can then dip accouterments in the cheese, such as bread. Raclette is usually served as part of a long dinner, taking many hours. This meal gives you a great chance to have a nice romantic meal with your partner.
• 24. Drink Coffee in Seattle – Any coffee lover knows that the mecca of coffee lies in Seattle. Spend a day hopping around the city, trying the best of every brew and deciding which one is your favorite. (Hint: Make your Seattle trip a weekend one – you don’t need more than one day in Seattle).
• 25. Eat Pasta in Italy – You haven’t had pasta until you’ve had pasta in Italy. It’s a dish that lives up to the hype, as fresh pasta is one of the best dishes in the world. And that’s why it’s a perfect addition to your vacation ideas for couples’ bucket list. My suggestion? Try cacio e pepe in Rome – it’s a dish that’s could be called Roman Mac and Cheese (but better). Make your dinner extra romantic by sitting at a table located on the street and accompanied by a bottle of wine.

Once-in-a-Lifetime Trips

• 26. Northern Lights in Iceland – There’s nothing more romantic on my vacation ideas for couples’ bucket list than spending a once-in-a-lifetime night cuddling in bed and watching the northern lights above via a glass ceiling hotel. It’s a unique experience that falls as one of the top items on many bucket lists. After that, make this trip extra romantic by taking the time to soak in an Iceland hot spring!
• 27. See Alaskan Glaciers – The experience of standing next to a glacier that is more than 100 years old. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity includes taking in our 49 th state and the glaciers that cover it. One of the best ways to do this is by taking an Alaskan cruis e. On the cruise, there will be more glaciers than you ever thought you’d have a chance to see!
• 28. Safari in Africa – What says once-in-a-lifetime more than taking a trip to see the animals of Africa in their real-life habitat? Take this trip to take in the natural beauty of Africa. The hospitality experienced on a safari trip is so romantic that the British royals have been known to partake in it from time-to-time. Will & Kate even got engaged on a safari ! After that, make your travels extra romantic by sleeping under the stars. Nothing could be better to check off your couples’ bucket list than spending a night al fresco on another continent!
• 29. Sail Down the Amazon in South America – Take a cruise down the famous river. Small ships are known for their romantic atmosphere. And these cruises are great for spotting rare wildlife and viewing extraordinary scenery. This trip is once-in-a-lifetime because it allows you to take in this seldom seen part of the world. Extend this romantic vacation by renting an open-air bungalow before or after going down the Amazon!
• 30. Santorini – One glance at the Aegean Sea, and you’ll understand why staying in Santorini is a once-in-a-lifetime chance. A romantic trip equals exploring the island and definitely includes spending some time laying on the beach. In addition, make the trip even more romantic by staying in a hotel in a windmill or taking a Greek cooking class.

Recurring Trips to Take Every Year

• 31. A cruise – I can’t speak more highly of any yearly trip than a cruise. In fact, we are so in love with cruising that my husband and I got both got engaged on a cruise and then married on one. If that’s not a testament to something you should do every year, then I don’t know what is. Make your cruise extra romantic
• 32. Wine (or beer) tasting somewhere – Find a region of the country that makes amazing wine or beer. And then spend a weekend in that region every year. You’ll be amazed at the different wine or beer that a winery or brewery can produce year-to-year. Buy a bottle of one of their vintages and sample it again every year. Make it extra romantic by finding a choice bed and breakfast and book it every year.
• 33. Beach vacation – Every couple, and really every family, needs “their” beach. The beach they go back to year after year, making memories with their loved ones. A great idea for a couples’ bucket is to find a beach that you enjoy and then
• 34. Amusement Park – Find your family’s amusement park and head there year after year. Whether it is Disney World or a local park, make it a yearly tradition to go back to that amusement park every year. Most amusement parks have different events based on the time of the year. So, change up your visit based on the different times of the year. And you can turn any amusement park visit into a romantic trip by grabbing a few beers (or a few rounds of cotton candy if the park doesn’t serve beers) and watching the riders get off the craziest roller coaster in the park.
• 35. Camping – There are many romantic camping destinations around the country. Whether you go to the same one, or whether you change it up every year, taking the time to go camping will be a great yearly trip for you and your partner. Additionally, make it even more romantic by establishing a tradition you can do every year like sleeping under the stars or cooking the same meal.  

Trips Across the United States

• 36. Grand Canyon – If you’re like me, you balk when you think that a bunch of rocks could be romantic. However, the Grand Canyon is anything but a pile of rocks. Once you take in the beautiful, literally purple-mountain majesty of the canyon, it will be an instant romantic spot for you and your partner. Make the trip even more romantic by booking a room with a view and taking in the majesty within the privacy of your own room.
• 37. Niagara Falls – One of the biggest honeymoon destinations in the country, the mayor of Niagara Falls even gives out certificates to couples who come to visit here after their weddings every year. In addition to taking the near-about required Niagara cruise, make sure to explore the town to check out why this is such a romantic place – there are many romantic destinations to travel to, including a sky view and romantic restaurant.
• 38. New Orleans – While you may think of New Orleans as a party city, it can actually be quite romantic. From street performers to amazing restaurants and museums, to fun activities like tours and cooking classes, the Big Easy has plenty of goings-on to make for a romantic trip. Make sure to take a carriage through the city at sunset, as you’ll get a great view and really see the city at its best.
• 39. Las Vegas – Vegas is more than slot machines! There are plenty of romantic opportunities in Sin City. From balloon rides to winery tastings to just spending time together by the pool, there can be nothing better than taking in Las Vegas with your partner. Make it extra romantic by spending a day at the spa and then ending it with a gondola ride at the Venetian.
• 40. Disney – Whether you choose to visit Disney Land or World, the perfect vacation idea for any couple is getting lost in a day at Disney. Whether you go with kids or go with just your partner, make sure to ride every ride and enjoy every meal. You make your trip extra romantic by booking a specialty dining restaurant or buying an extra-special fireworks experience for just the two of you.

Experiences Ideas for Couples

• 41. Snorkeling in the Caribbean – You haven’t experienced much until you have experienced viewing the blue water of the Caribbean via a snorkel mask. My Mom has always described the difference as looking above the water and finally getting the chance to look below it as life-changing. Whether you snorkel in the Caribbean or as part of a resort stay, either way, will be guaranteed to be an amazing experience.
• 42. White Water Rafting in Arizona – In one day while white water rafting, you’ll overcome challenging experiences while overlooking exquisite scenery. By taking a white-water trip down a river, you’ll get a chance to spend hours going down a river while taking in the sights. On most white-water rafting trips, you’ll have a guide that will take you down the river, making the trip not only less stressful but easy. When you’re done, turn a long day into a romantic one by grabbing a drink at a local pub.
• 43. Wine Tasting in France – There has been nothing more romantic that David and I have done as a couple than taking a wine tasting class. During the class, we had time to examine the different types of wine produced throughout France, while discussing our favorite wines and trying cheese and wine pairings. Because of this amazing experience with O Chateau in Paris , I highly recommend taking the time to try a wine tasting class – your experience will expand your palette and your wine tastes.
• 44. Cooking Class in Tuscany – Taking the time to learn from a cooking class allows for a couple to really get a chance to understand the cuisine of the country. Italian cuisine is one that has been passed down for centuries – by taking a cooking class, it allows you to get a chance to learn the traditions that lend to the cuisine. Usually, cooking classes allow you to taste your own food, just the two of you, so make sure that the wine is included and enjoy the time marveling in the food you have made.
• 45. Road Trip Across the United States – Whether you drive across the whole country or just a few states, taking time to take in the United States via a road trip is a memory to remember. You can make the trip extra special by making sure to drive through areas that are important to you. And where you can find romance in the trip? It lies in the trip you can connect with each other, and doing experiences that you love along the way.

Do You Have Any Other Ideas for a Couples’ Bucket List?

I hope these ideas helped you narrow down your vacation ideas for couples’ bucket list. If you have any other questions or ideas about other items to add to your couples’ bucket list, make sure to leave them in the comments below !

Want to see some more of the trips we have taken? Take a look at my Instagram stories, and you can see minute-by-minute information from each of our trips.

Have you been on a couple’s trip? Was it on your bucket list? Where did you go and what did you do? What would you change? What’s on your vacation ideas for couples’ bucket list? Make sure to comment below – I want to hear from you!

And don’t forget to save this post for later via the images below.

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February 2, 2020 at 1:37 am

I have definitely bookmarked this post! So many great ideas and a few of my favorites 😉

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21 most romantic getaways in florida.

For couples who love the beach, Florida is the ultimate destination for a romantic getaway.

Romantic Getaways in Florida

Courtesy of Marriott Harbor Beach Resort

The Marriott Harbor Beach Resort in Fort Lauderdale provides all the essentials for a romantic getaway in Florida.

From world-renowned beaches bordered by small towns and big cities to island escapes and even all-inclusive resorts , Florida offers a seemingly endless variety of destinations perfect for an escape with your partner. To help you choose your next romantic getaway in Florida, we've rounded up the best of the best.

St. Augustine

• Bungalows Key Largo
• Little Palm Island Resort & Spa
• The Don CeSar

Miami Beach

Sanibel island, fort lauderdale.

• Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Henderson Park Inn

Amelia Island

• The Breakers Palm Beach
• JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
• Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach
• The Boca Raton Beach Club
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa
• Islamorada Resort Collection
• White Elephant Palm Beach

Courtesy of Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Head to St. Augustine if you and your soul mate appreciate history. Start your visit exploring Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you and your significant other can drink from the mythical spring early settlers believed had anti-aging properties. Then, spend some time at the aptly named Old Jail before visiting the town's famous Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Round out your trip by signing up for one of St. Augustine's spooky ghost tours .

If you and your beau would rather explore at your own pace, plan a leisurely stroll up and down St. George Street. This downtown, pedestrian-only thoroughfare is lined with old-world structures that house boutique shops, eateries and art galleries, including local favorites like Whetstone Chocolates and the Spanish Bakery & Café. Later, you'll have the chance to fall in love all over again on a romantic sunset cruise , amid a horse-drawn carriage ride or after climbing to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse.

Where to stay: After a day of sightseeing, share a bottle of wine and gourmet international cuisine at lovebird-approved restaurants like Collage and Michael's before retreating to one of several enchanting properties located within the town center. The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens boasts impeccable service, beautiful grounds, and well-appointed rooms and suites, which feature charming details like fireplaces, coquina walls and rain showers; verandas are also offered in select suites.

Meanwhile, the Casa Monica Resort & Spa , an Autograph Collection property, appeals to couples in search of old-world charm, spacious accommodations and an exclusive atmosphere (thanks in part to the pool cabanas and private beach club).

Bungalows Key Largo: Key Largo

Courtesy of Bungalows Key Largo

Located on the sun-kissed island of Key Largo, around 70 miles south of Miami, Bungalows Key Largo appeals to couples in search of an adults-only, all-inclusive escape . One of few all-inclusive resorts in Florida, the resort offers luxuries spanning an in-town courtesy car to complimentary valet parking, along with amenities such as free cruiser bikes and daily yoga sessions. While here, go for a dip in one of two outdoor pools, relax on 1,000 feet of private beach, or get out on the water in one of the resort's kayaks or paddleboards. For an additional cost, lovebirds can even pamper themselves with decadent treatments like a bamboo massage or mineral bath at the resort's on-site spa.

For dinner, enjoy coastal Mexican cuisine with your beau underneath a bevy of palm trees at the beachfront Sea Señor restaurant, then grab a cocktail under the Sunset Tiki Bar's thatched roof. When you're ready to bed down, you'll get to kick back in an exclusive bungalow that comes with a pillow-top mattress, rain shower and private veranda with a soaking tub. All bungalows feature garden or ocean views, but for a separate sitting area with a sofa bed, opt for the King Bungalow. For additional romantic perks, Bungalows Key Largo offers vacation packages for special occasions ranging from honeymoons and babymoons to engagement and elopement celebrations. With the popular "Romance Package," couples will receive extras like chocolate-covered strawberries, a bottle of sparkling wine and rose petals upon arrival.

Address: 99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa: Little Torch Key

Courtesy of Little Palm Island Resort & Spa

Twosomes who crave peace and quiet will love visiting Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , a Noble House property. Located roughly 25 miles northeast of Key West on Little Torch Key, this adults-only property is solely accessible by seaplane or boat. Inside all of the British West Indies-inspired bungalow suites, visitors will discover details like vaulted ceilings, private decks and indoor-outdoor showers. Dial up the romance even further by adding on a turndown package that includes perks like a bottle of Champagne, a drawn bath for two and chocolate-covered strawberries. But while the resort is certainly laden with luxury, what makes Little Palm Island's suites ideal for couples is what they lack: Guests won't find TVs or telephones inside the accommodations, an intentional move by the resort to help travelers disconnect from everyday stress.

When you're ready to venture outside your digs, you can arrange off-site fishing excursions, scuba diving outings and more through the concierge or take advantage of the resort's countless amenities. The on-site spa offers a variety of treatments, including couples massages and an aromatherapy bath, while the beach is the place to go for activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. The outdoor pool also features front-row views of the ocean, lounge chairs, and a bar that serves tropical cocktails and casual bites. For more substantial meals showcasing fresh seafood, grab a bite to eat in the resort's dining room. Enhance the mood even further by arranging a private dinner on the beach at sunset.

Address: 28500 Overseas Highway, Little Torch Key, FL 33042

The Don CeSar: St. Pete Beach

Courtesy of The Don CeSar

Opened in the late 1920s as a tribute to real estate scion Thomas Rowe's lost love, The Don CeSar regularly welcomes vacationing couples to St. Pete Beach, a community just west of St. Petersburg . Upon entering the "Pink Palace," you and your sweetheart will feel as if you've stepped back in time thanks to the property's old-Florida details, such as retro tile floors, wicker furnishings and palm leaf print. This Roaring '20s vibe is especially apparent in the lobby bar, which plays live jazz music and serves a selection of sophisticated cocktails and small plates. For a more romantic setting, grab a sweet treat at the ice cream parlor before enjoying a sunset, or cuddle by one of The Rowe Bar's outdoor fire pits. Maritana, the main restaurant, is the place to go if your ideal date night involves dressing up and savoring gourmet seafood.

Later, you can go for a dip in one of two heated outdoor pools, pamper yourselves at the full-service spa or borrow loaner bicycles to check out nearby attractions like Fort De Soto Park, a 1,136-acre park that sits a little more than 5 miles south of the property. When it's time to bed down, you and your partner will enjoy charming digs decorated with blush-pink tones and beds dressed in plush linens. Some previous guests said basic rooms are small, so for more elbow room, reserve one of the hotel's penthouses, whose two-story layouts come with kitchenettes and furnished balconies.

Address: 3400 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach, FL 33706

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For a dose of art and culture in a chic atmosphere, travel to bustling Miami Beach . In this ritzy seaside community just east of Miami, you'll discover miles of gorgeous sand and boulevards lined with upscale shops. Begin your vacation sunbathing at Lummus Park, or head north to Haulover Park for some fun in the sun sans clothing. If you and your partner would rather get out on the water than gaze at it from the shore, you can sign up for a private sailing charter ; take to the skies on a parasailing trip ; or rent water sports equipment like paddleboards, Jet Skis and powerboats through a reputable outfitter like Miami Tours & Water Adventures.

After soaking up some rays, get a dose of contemporary art at The Bass – a top Miami-area museum – then explore the lush Miami Beach Botanical Garden or admire the incredible structures that constitute the Art Deco Historic District on a guided tour. If your stomachs start to grumble, sit down for an Italian-inspired meal in Casa Tua's garden; the tropical plants, hanging lanterns and candles will help set the mood. Another top dining option involves savoring plates of salmon tartare, wagyu beef gyoza or truffle risotto at the rooftop restaurant Juvia.

Where to stay: In the evening, hang your hats at Fontainebleau Miami Beach , one of the best hotels in the city. Past guests praised the attentive staff and clean accommodations (which include amenities like iMac computers and minibars) but said it was the property's on-site facilities that set it apart from the rest. Duos can swim in one of 11 pools, lounge on the beach and enjoy a luxurious spa treatment, among other activities.

Few Florida destinations are as serene and laid-back as Sanibel Island , which continues to make a remarkable recovery following damages sustained from Hurricane Ian in 2022. Situated about 25 miles southwest of Fort Myers on Florida's Gulf Coast, Sanibel Island appeals to couples seeking rest and relaxation. While there are no shortage of fun activities – such as shopping along Periwinkle Way or bird-watching at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge – lovebirds will likely spend the bulk of their time at Sanibel Island's beautiful beaches. Turner Beach and Blind Pass Beach are especially popular for shelling, while the shoreline by the Sanibel Island Lighthouse is an excellent place to spot wild dolphins.

Where to stay: Local accommodations here run the gamut from charming cottages and inns to beachfront resorts and hotels. Couples who prefer boutique-style properties will love staying at Island Inn , which features an outdoor pool, two tennis courts, a restaurant and 500-plus feet of pristine shoreline.

Take your partner to Fort Lauderdale if having a mix of things to see and do is just as important as sticking to a budget. Spend some time lounging on the beach – Fort Lauderdale Beach and Las Olas Beach earn rave reviews from visitors for their crystal-clear waters, clean sand, and proximity to restaurants and hotels. You may also want to prioritize Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a lush oasis in the heart of the city where couples can rent tandem kayaks and pedal boats. Outside the park, you'll find countless other ways to keep yourselves occupied, whether you're exploring the Riverwalk Arts & Entertainment District on a bike tour or paddleboarding along Fort Lauderdale's famous waterways.

Once you've worked up an appetite, head to traveler-approved eateries like Kaluz Restaurant for fresh seafood, premium cuts of meat, and comfort classics like burgers and flatbreads. Diners also loved Steak 954 and Casablanca Cafe, which serves up specialties such as baked escargot. Meanwhile, couples seeking an enchanting ambiance can opt for an exclusive gondola dinner cruise along the city's New River.

Where to stay: Check in to the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort , where you and your partner can lounge by the pool, enjoy a couples massage at the spa and go for a stroll on the beach at sunset. For a romantic dinner, make reservations at the hotel's signature restaurant 3030 Ocean, which specializes in fresh seafood and oceanfront views.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Lake Buena Vista

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort

Reserve a room at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa if you and your significant other are kids at heart. Unlike other properties on the Walt Disney World Resort grounds, this hotel – situated less than 25 miles southwest of central Orlando – offers an opulent setting made for couples. While you and your partner will undoubtedly want to take advantage of the Grand Floridian's easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is only one stop away on Disney's monorail, the hotel's Victorian-style architecture and upscale amenities shouldn't be overlooked. Inside the grandiose lobby, sweethearts can forget about life's stresses while listening to live piano music. What's more, the hotel's two zero-entry pools provide a quiet atmosphere ideal for adults. And if you're feeling nostalgic, you can participate in property activities like making s'mores by a fire pit or watching movies beneath the stars.

Following a day of relaxing or Orlando theme park hopping, get dressed up for a romantic evening on-site. You can start the night toasting to your love at the Enchanted Rose, an elegant lounge with four areas inspired by "Beauty and the Beast," including an outdoor patio and a library. Then, treat yourselves to dinner at Cítricos. Featuring decor inspired by the film "Mary Poppins Returns," this upscale restaurant serves mouthwatering Mediterranean-influenced cuisine. To explore Orlando's culinary offerings outside of the hotel, guests can reserve a table at traveler-approved restaurants Kres Chophouse or Capa. After filling up on gourmet fare, retreat to your guest room or suite. You can upgrade to an Outer Building suite with a direct view of Cinderella Castle, or choose a club-level room for extras like health club access and admission to a lounge with complimentary refreshments.

Address: 4401 Floridian Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830

Henderson Park Inn: Destin

You may not immediately think of Destin when planning a romantic getaway in Florida, but this quiet town on the Florida Panhandle makes a perfect escape for twosomes. In addition to offering ample outdoor activities, such as fishing and sunset cruises , this laid-back town overlooking the Gulf of Mexico is where you'll find the Henderson Park Inn . At this adults-only, all-inclusive Florida hotel, you and your sweetheart will have access to all kinds of amenities, including loaner bicycles, daily happy hour beverages and the use of a fitness center. You can also check out the hotel's sister property – Henderson Beach Resort – to lounge by the upper-deck pool or unwind at the spa.

When hunger starts to set in, make your way to the Henderson Park Inn's Beach Walk Café to savor delectable seafood and meat dishes. (Keep in mind, though, that the all-inclusive plan does not cover dinner here.) With the restaurant's "Toes in the Sand" private dining experience, you and your partner can enjoy an intimate sunset dinner on the beach. Once you've finished your meal, retire to one of the hotel's plush rooms or suites. The Presidential Suite offers amenities ranging from a whirlpool tub to a spacious private balcony, while the Studio Suite is the only suite equipped with a kitchenette.

Address: 2700 Scenic Highway 98, Destin, FL 32541

Located less than 35 miles northeast of Jacksonville, Amelia Island draws twosomes in search of secluded shores, lush vegetation and ample activities. Spend your visit lounging on the 13 miles of beaches – complete with soft Appalachian quartz sand – and strolling hand in hand beneath Spanish moss-covered oak trees. For a more active getaway, explore the island on a 6-mile bike ride through Fort Clinch State Park before hitting the links at one of Amelia Island's five world-renowned golf courses. In the evening, lovers can head to Peters Point Beach Front Park for a sunset horseback ride along the coast, and round out the night with a romantic dinner for two at traveler-approved restaurants like Le Clos or Salt at the Ritz-Carlton, an AAA Five Diamond award recipient.

Where to stay: For those looking to pamper themselves during their vacation, Amelia Island offers a variety of luxurious hotels. Bed down at The Ritz-Carlton on Amelia Island for access to a spa with sea-inspired treatments, multiple pools with private cabanas and an oceanfront tennis court; the accommodations here feature romantic touches like terraces with fire tables and plush bathrobes. Or, couples can opt for a stay at Omni Amelia Island Resort , a 1,350-acre property that boasts an adults-only infinity pool, a spa, a steakhouse, and 400-plus guest rooms with ocean-facing balconies or patios.

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The Breakers Palm Beach: Palm Beach

This colossal South Florida property – which has been a fixture in Palm Beach since 1896 and sits less than 2 miles from downtown West Palm Beach – features an extravagant appearance that pays homage to Rome's Villa Medici. After driving down the palm-lined driveway at  The Breakers , past manicured lawns and a Florentine Fountain, step into the grandiose lobby to admire beautiful Venetian chandeliers hanging from painted ceilings. Though standard accommodations come outfitted with everything you need for a romantic date night in (think: minibars, plush bathrobes and flat-screen TVs), you may want to upgrade to a Flagler Club room or suite to make your stay extra memorable. These accommodations, which sit on two restricted floors of the resort, come with exclusive perks like chauffeured Tesla car service, a cocktail hour, and access to a private lounge and rooftop terrace.

Outside your room or suite, you'll find numerous amenities made for twosomes. Head to the resort's private beach to enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking and surfing; lounge by the adults-only infinity pool; tee off on the state's oldest golf course; or treat yourselves to a personalized couples massage at the spa. When you're ready to eat, sit down for a meal at the property's steakhouse or seafood bar, both of which earn rave reviews from past patrons. Another top dining option is nearby Renato's, an Italian-inspired eatery with an enchanting outdoor courtyard.

Address: 1 S. County Road, Palm Beach, FL 33480

JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort: Marco Island

Courtesy of JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

At the JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort in southwest Florida, you and your significant other will instantly feel at ease while lounging on the resort's 3-mile-long private beach or challenging each other to a game of tennis on the outdoor courts. The resort also houses a 24,000-square-foot spa, where you can unwind in the steam room or soothe aching muscles during a couples massage. Should you crave a Caribbean-inspired cocktail or bite to eat, head to the on-site Quinn's on the Beach – in the evenings you can witness both a gorgeous sunset and fire dancers putting on an incredible performance.

Most accommodations here offer balconies that face the Gulf, but if you don't mind splurging for newer digs and additional privacy, previous visitors suggest booking a Paradise by Sirene room or suite. Located on the top four floors of a private tower that only permits guests ages 21 and older, these accommodations include extras like access to an adults-only rooftop pool, daily breakfast for two and concierge services in their nightly rates. Guests can also enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired restaurant, Tesoro, that offers panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico.

Address: 400 S. Collier Blvd., Marco Island, FL 34145

Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach: Sunny Isles Beach

Courtesy of Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach

Feel worlds away from busy Miami Beach without sacrificing proximity to its top attractions by staying at the serene Acqualina Resort & Residences on the Beach . Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from its perch in Sunny Isles Beach, a town situated about 10 miles north of South Beach, this award-winning property offers all kinds of relaxation-focused amenities. Guests can arrange a treatment in the ESPA-affiliated spa's Royal Spa Suite, equipped with a two-person rainforest shower and a private wraparound balcony. Then, reserve a cabana for additional privacy and pampering while enjoying the adults-only pool, or sink your toes in the sand at the 400-foot-long beach. To satiate your appetite, surprise your beau with a picnic or private dinner on the beach. A highly regarded Italian restaurant with charming terraces and an excellent selection of wines is also located on-site.

Past guests praised the hotel's kind and attentive staff, and many said the resort's smaller size added to its tranquil atmosphere. Standard rooms are spacious at 600 square feet and feature everything from Jacuzzi tubs to minibars to private balconies. Meanwhile, suites offer even more square footage and additions like dining chairs and separate living rooms. Enhance your stay by booking the resort's "Ultimate Spa Package for Two," which covers an oceanfront room or suite, four spa treatments, a welcome amenity, and a spa lunch for you and your partner, among other perks.

Address: 17875 Collins Ave., Sunny Isles Beach, FL 33160

A romantic getaway to Naples is all about spending time outside while also enjoying the finer things in life. In this luxe coastal town on Florida's Gulf Coast, you'll discover uncrowded beaches, world-renowned golf courses, and an abundance of high-end shops interspersed between alfresco dining and boutique art galleries. Stroll hand in hand along a favorite beach, or venture approximately 30 miles northwest of town to Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary, where you can admire verdant vegetation and spot alligators, otters and more. If you'd rather surround yourself with water views and sunsets, you'll have your pick of beautiful beaches, including Vanderbilt Beach Park and Clam Pass Park.

Balance your time in nature with some retail therapy. Downtown's Fifth Avenue South is where you'll find a variety of locally owned art galleries, clothing boutiques and specialty shops. Later, satisfy your appetite at one of the best restaurants in Naples ; top romantic eatery options include BALEEN, Campiello's or Bleu Provence with its extensive wine collection.

Where to stay: Because Naples offers a ritzier vibe than most beach destinations in Florida, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for accommodations here. Those who love to golf should seek out a room or suite at The Ritz-Carlton Naples, Tiburón , which features two Greg Norman-designed courses at its famous Tiburón Golf Club, plus an outdoor pool and restaurant that overlook the links. For lodging closer to the water, choose the centrally located Inn on Fifth . Situated a few blocks east of the beach on Fifth Avenue South, this property offers accommodations with Juliet balconies or terraces, a spa, and a rooftop pool.

The Boca Raton Beach Club: Boca Raton

Courtesy of The Boca Raton Beach Club

Couples who want to spoil themselves while on vacation should consider a room or suite at The Boca Raton Beach Club , part of the larger Boca Raton resort. Nestled on a private peninsula in the Palm Beaches resort town of Boca Raton, just north of South Inlet Park, this luxurious property aims to please with its plethora of perks. Inside the modern accommodations, twosomes will find minibars and floor-to-ceiling windows alongside marble bathrooms equipped with rainfall showers and soaking tubs. Select upgraded rooms and suites also come outfitted with lanais, sun decks or balconies that provide phenomenal ocean views.

Duos interested in getting some vitamin D may want to spend the bulk of their time swimming and sunbathing at the resort's private beach or three oceanfront pools. For those who need a break from the water, there is an 18-hole championship golf course and 16 tennis courts available to test your athletic skills. In the evening, clink glasses with your sweetheart at the chic Colin Cowie-designed lobby lounge.

Address: 900 S. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, FL 33432

Choose charming Vero Beach for a romantic trip away if you and your partner appreciate art and love spending time outside. Situated on Florida's east coast about 80 miles north of West Palm Beach, this idyllic town offers ample ways to pass the time. Craving some outdoor solitude? Stop by Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park, a natural oasis known for its diverse bird population and excellent stargazing opportunities. If you'd rather stay within town limits, grab a pair of paddleboards or kayaks from Orchid Outfitters and head to Round Island Riverside Park. In this quiet park by the Indian River, you can paddle past wild manatees (taking care not to disturb them) or admire them from the 400-foot-long boardwalk; you'll also find beach access across the street in Round Island Oceanside Park. Meanwhile, couples seeking a dose of culture can check out nearly 900 pieces on display at the Vero Beach Museum of Art or McKee Botanical Garden's impressive collection of sculptures and native plants.

Where to stay: After a leisurely day of exploring town, split a bottle of wine and Florida-inspired bites like conch fritters at The Tides – or watch the sun dip below the ocean's surface while savoring fresh seafood, prime cuts of meat and more at Ocean Grill. Both restaurants sit within walking distance of the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa and Costa d'Este Beach Resort & Spa , two beachfront hotels made for couples. The Kimpton property features tropical accommodations, as well as a spa and an outdoor pool surrounded by swaying palm trees. Meanwhile, Costa d'Este offers sunrise yoga classes, water sports equipment rentals, and ocean-facing rooms and suites.

Laurence Norah | Courtesy of Florida Keys News Bureau

Key West attracts couples seeking dreamy accommodations set amid a laid-back island atmosphere. Look for lodging at the well-appointed Ocean Key Resort & Spa , where every guest room comes with a personal balcony and whirlpool tub, or opt for a charming personal cottage at Sunset Key Cottages . Located on a private island and only reachable by boat, this enchanting property features luxe amenities like fully equipped kitchens and separate living rooms. Here, couples can relax at the resort's serene spa during the day and, in the evening, dine at the award-winning beachfront restaurant Latitudes. Recent diners complimented the terrific service and delicious menu but said the view was what really made their experience unforgettable.

When you're not lounging around your resort, spy a six-toed cat at the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, watch the sun go down from Mallory Square or grab a drink with your beau along bustling Duval Street. Plus, thanks to its abundant marine life and colorful coral reefs, Key West is a perfect place to snorkel or scuba dive. If you're looking to up the romance factor even further, take an exhilarating seaplane tour with your sweetheart to Dry Tortugas National Park, which sits roughly 70 miles west of Key West and is known best for its 19th-century fort and cobalt-blue waters.

From stunning beaches to historic estates, couples will find plenty to see and do in this southern Florida locale. Explore nearby Lovers Key State Park on a guided ecotour, or plan your visit for winter to spot wild manatees at Manatee Park. For an unforgettable Fort Myers date night, board the Murder Mystery Dinner Train, an interactive show where lovebirds can put their sleuthing skills to the test while savoring delectable meat dishes and sipping on specialty cocktails. Round out your romantic getaway to Fort Myers with a chocolate-making class at Norman Love Confections, where you and your other half can learn how to create decadent sweets like truffles and fudge. When your stomach starts to rumble, check out romantic restaurants like Bayfront Bistro & Bar and The Veranda, where couples can fill up on specialties like veal piccata and Chilean sea bass.

Where to stay: After spending the day reconnecting with your sweetie, couples can retire to upscale digs at the Marriott Sanibel Harbour Resort & Spa , a lovebird-approved property facing the Caloosahatchee River. Or, book your stay at Pink Shell Beach Resort & Marina , a quiet beachfront retreat that offers exclusive amenities such as a full-service marina, a zero-entry pool and a relaxing spa.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa: Islamorada

Courtesy of Cheeca Lodge & Spa

If you and your sweetie like to keep busy while on vacation, book a room at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , one of the best resorts in the Florida Keys . This tropical paradise offers myriad ways for couples to spend their romantic getaway. Work on your swing at the resort's nine-hole golf course, challenge your partner to a volleyball tournament on the beach, cast a line from the property's 525-foot-long pier or get out on the water in a clear-bottomed kayak. Later, you can give your aching muscles a break by taking advantage of the resort's Xbox arcade, extensive book collection and game room, which features classics like air hockey, pool and ping-pong.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa is also home to three heated swimming pools, more than 1,000 feet of white sand beach and seven spa treatment rooms. Plus, with two outdoor bars and three top-notch restaurants serving everything from sushi to artisanal pizza, foodie couples will rejoice come dinnertime. When you're ready to hit the hay, you'll be treated to accommodations that feature either resort, lagoon or ocean views and come equipped with screened-in or open-air balconies, plush bedding and rain showers. While many travelers raved over the resort's beautiful property and well-appointed rooms, others lamented that the beach can sometimes get overrun with seaweed, so consider elsewhere if you plan on spending the majority of your vacation lounging on the beach.

Address: 81801 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

Islamorada Resort Collection: Islamorada

Courtesy of Islamorada Resorts Collection

Perfect for couples seeking seclusion in the Florida Keys, The Islamorada Resorts Collection comprises four hotels: Amara Cay Resort , Pelican Cove Resort & Marina , Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina and La Siesta Resort & Villas . No matter which accommodations you choose, you'll enjoy access to the amenities at all four hotels – including 55 boat slips, eight restaurants, two fitness centers, complimentary beachside yoga, daily scheduled events and water sports ranging from jet skiing to fishing charters. There's also a lagoon-style pool at Amara Cay. When and if you decide to leave the property, you'll enjoy its proximity to local attractions like the History of Diving Museum and the arts and culture district.

Address: 80001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036

White Elephant Palm Beach: Palm Beach

Chi-Thien Nguyen | Courtesy of Elkus Manfredi Architects

Different from the region's mega beach resorts , the White Elephant Palm Beach feels more like a private residence, with just 19 suites and 13 guest rooms. The aethestic varies from many local hotels, too, with black-and-white-striped awnings, terracotta roof tilings and hardwood floors throughout the property. Upscale accommodations are outfitted with custom-designed furniture including king beds with beautifully upholstered head boards, and two penthouse suites feature terraces overlooking Bradley Park.

Complete with a patio, pool and ice cream cart serving complimentary treats, the lush outdoor courtyard is the ultimate place to relax and recharge at this boutique hotel. And at the brand's signature restaurant, Lola 41, you can enjoy globally inspired cuisine and seafood specialties.

If and when you and partner are ready to dig your toes in the sand, grab your complimentary beach gear and hop on the hotel shuttle (also complimentary), which will transport you to the beach a few blocks away. For other romantic rendezvous in Palm Beach, you can borrow bikes, be chauffeured into town via a BMW 7 Series luxury sedan or book an exclusive excursion aboard a Barton & Gray yacht.

Address: 280 Sunset Ave., Palm Beach, FL 33480

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Florida
• The 12 Best Places for Camping in Florida
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Policies

Tags: Florida Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations , Southeast Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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This Study Found The Best Places For Couples To Visit

A recent study highlighted the best places for couples who want to enjoy a romantic baecation in a dreamy (and affordable) destination.

Sarah Rand • Jun 10, 2024

Exploring the world is a gratifying adventure, but with a travel buddy, that experience can be even better. Finding a partner equally yoked in travel can be difficult, but once that connection is made, there’s no stopping travel couples. Some couples even have a joint travel bucket list they conquer together as travel buddies . Travel is a great way for couples to bond and strengthen their bond , regardless of where they go. Of course, some places are more romantic than others, so picking a destination that is fit for couples can be a challenge. 

Extravagant baecations are all the rave for traveling couples. With the popularity of destination elopements and honeymoons, there are plenty of places that cater to couples. Some of the best places for couples offer a romantic ambiance, engaging activities, and gorgeous views that they can cherish. An ideal travel destination truly depends on what a couple prioritizes for their experience abroad. Couples that consider themselves adrenaline junkies, wellness warriors, or nature lovers will likely gravitate towards different places. 

Although couples that travel have distinct interests, travelers no longer have to do deep dives on the internet to discover the next best couple’s destination. Selecting the perfect location for a baecation has been simplified by well-researched studies on the subject. Although the best places may change year to year, these resources are convenient for travelers. To make travel planning easier for couples, one recent study has discovered the best places for couples to travel to.

Which Destinations are the Best for Couples?

The study that uncovered the best places for couples was conducted by Slingo, a gaming company behind one of the most popular online casino games in the world. Even the name of the company reflects its interest in providing unique experiences since Slingo comes from the names of the two games slots and bingo. The goal of the company’s research was to figure out the best places for couples on honeymoon or vacation. These places are unique destinations where couples can blissfully indulge in romance.  

Slingo’s study, appropriately named the Couples’ Holiday Index , considered many different factors to determine the best places for couples. The criteria for the results of the study were affordable and popular destinations. Slingo looked at online reviews and the cost of daily expenses in each place. Things like the percentage of romantic restaurants, couples’ activities, the number of searches or posts, and the average cost of a meal for two were factored in. While these top-rated places are exceptional options for travelers, they are also baecation spots that won’t break the bank. 

These are the top ten best places for couples:

• Bali, Indonesia 
• Santorini, Greece 
• Cancun, Mexico 
• Venice, Italy 
• Mallorca, Spain
• Paris, France
• Dubai, United Arab Emirates 
• Positano, Italy
• Rome, Italy 
• Marrakech, Morocco 

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Unconventional Sex Let Anglerfish Conquer the Deep Ocean

During a chaotic period some 50 million years ago, the strange deep-sea creatures left the ocean bottom and thrived by clamping onto their mates.

A female anglerfish, with a bioluminescent lure, in waters off Hawaii. Credit... Doug Perrine/Alamy

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By William J. Broad

• May 30, 2024

How did the ghoulish creatures known as anglerfish pull off the evolutionary feat that let them essentially take over the ocean’s sunless depths?

It took peculiar sex — extremely peculiar sex.

Scientists at Yale University have discovered that a burst of anglerfish diversification began some 50 million years ago as the ancestral line developed a bizarre strategy to ensure successful reproduction in the dark wilderness.

To mate, tiny males would clamp with sharp teeth onto the bellies of much larger females. Some males would let go after mating while others would permanently fuse into the females. The males that stayed attached became permanent organs for sperm production.

“We found that a cascade of traits, including those required for sexual parasitism, allowed anglerfishes to invade the deep sea,” Chase D. Brownstein , a graduate student in the ecology and evolutionary biology department at Yale who was the study’s lead author, said in a news release.

Today, there are more than 300 species of anglerfish, which makes them the most varied family of vertebrates in the ocean’s lightless zone. The region starts about 1,000 feet down — just beneath the photic zone, which gets enough sunlight to support photosynthesis and most of the sea’s plants — and descends for miles. The team’s study was published last week in the journal Current Biology.

Finding a mate in the deep sea can be extremely difficult because of the environment’s incomprehensibly vast size. By some estimates, the dark zone amounts to more than 97 percent of the planetary space inhabited by living things, mainly because the ocean plunges to a maximum depth of nearly seven miles. In contrast, land habitats make up less than 1 percent of the planet’s biosphere because the band of life is so narrow, making its volume quite small.

The anglerfish’s bizarre mating routine is seen as counteracting the otherwise slim chances of finding a mate in the world’s largest ecosystem. It is the only known vertebrate that employs sexual parasitism, and that gave it an evolutionary edge.

Over time, the male can physically fuse with the female, connecting to her skin and bloodstream. Eventually, he loses his eyes and all internal organs except for his testes. A female can carry several males on her body.

The Yale team documented how immune systems that attack foreign threats changed over time so the female hosts would not reject the parasitic males.

Anglerfish get their name from how females use rodlike appendages with glowing tips to lure prey into their needlelike teeth. They’re fish that fish . Their mouths are so large and their bodies so flexible that they can swallow prey up to twice their size.

The Yale team used fossils and genetic data from more than 100 living anglerfish species to determine that the burst of diversification came during a major global heat spike between 50 million and 35 million years ago. The world’s oceans were thrown into turmoil, and the bottom-walking ancestors of the anglerfish began to explore the wider oceanic world.

“It happened in the blink of an evolutionary eye about 50 million years ago,” Mr. Brownstein said in an interview. “It was like whales going back into the ocean. It was amazing.”

The team found that, simultaneously, the fish developed their unusual reproductive skills. It was unable to determine which came first — temporary or permanent attachment.

Some female anglerfish can grow quite large, reaching more than three feet in length, but most are smaller. The free-swimming males typically are a few inches long.

How do they find the females in the perpetual darkness of the deep sea?

Mr. Brownstein said the males have enlarged nasal organs that are thought to let them follow faint trails of female pheromones through the darkness in order to find their partner.

“You sniff out your mate, literally,” he said.

William J. Broad has reported on science at The Times since 1983. He is based in New York. More about William J. Broad

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10 Most Romantic American Road Trips for Couples

Spend quality time together discovering the best of what roadside America has to offer.

Nothing brings two people together quite like going on a road trip. Romantic destinations are plentiful in the U.S., where couples will love discovering America's most beautiful attractions side by side. Luckily, the nation is home to thousands of miles of scenic roadways with numerous national parks, beaches, and mountain vistas to enjoy along the way.

Daniel Gorostieta/Travel + Leisure

For the ultimate bonding experience, gather your favorite road trip snacks, sync your playlists, and embark on one of these romantic road trips for couples.

New England: Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont

Start your journey in Maine at Acadia National Park , where you'll find 47,000 acres of wilderness, including hiking and biking trails. Then, head to Camden — the so-called "Jewel of the Maine Coast." Here, you can shop downtown, picnic at the beach, and see marvel at scenic lighthouses. Next up is Portland, where you'll want to check out the breweries, art galleries, and of course, more lighthouses. Start with the historic Portland Head Light along the shores of Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth.

Afterward, head west to the White Mountains in New Hampshire, where you can spend the night at the Omni Mount Washington Resort . This property is located within Bretton Woods, New Hampshire's largest ski area and a favorite New England retreat for presidents, artists, and celebrities seeking a peaceful mountain getaway. Finally, cruise over to Waterbury, Vermont, where you can tour the Ben & Jerry's factory and share a pint of ice cream.

Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo, California

Kick off your trip in glamorous Los Angeles and spend the day exploring iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign before taking Highway 101 up to Ventura. Here, try your hand at surfing, or ride the ferry to Santa Cruz Island, one of California's Channel Islands , to hike and explore. From Ventura, you'll hug the coastline up to Santa Barbara, where you can check out the Funk Zone neighborhood and its urban wine trail. Spend the night at the historic Hotel Californian and depart the next morning to drive down Route 154, which winds through the mountains and vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley.

Make a detour to the quaint Danish town of Solvang and enjoy authentic European pastries like homemade ebelskivers (fried pancake balls). On your way back to Highway 101, stop at OstrichLand to feed and interact with giant flightless birds. From here, you'll travel up through Los Alamos and the Santa Maria Valley vineyards, passing through the shoreside city of Pismo Beach. Finally, end your road trip in romantic San Luis Obispo for a variety of outdoor adventures like surfing and kayaking.

Western National Parks

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Begin your adventure at Yellowstone National Park , where more than 10,000 hot springs and geysers, including the famous Old Faithful , can be found. Following Yellowstone, stop at Grand Teton National Park in northwestern Wyoming, which boasts a majestic mountain landscape, stunning alpine lakes, and vast grassy plains. Spend a night at Lost Creek Ranch & Spa to experience the romanticism of the Old West against the backdrop of Teton views. Here, rustic-luxe log cabin accommodations are coupled with classic ranch activities like horseback riding.

Next up on the itinerary is Utah. On your way from Yellowstone, you can spend a night in Salt Lake City at the centrally located Kimpton Hotel Monaco before continuing to Arches National Park . Here, you can take pleasure in the 36-mile out-and-back scenic drive and over 2,000 distinctively named arches, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Last on the list is Canyonlands National Park — just a half hour's drive from Arches — which includes three major areas for all adventure levels: the less accessible, backcountry Needles region; the isolated, off-road Maze section; and easily reachable Island in the Sky, with a paved road featuring views of buttes, fins, and water-carved canyons.

The Kancamagus Highway: New Hampshire

This 34.5-mile scenic drive along Route 112 in northern New Hampshire is best known for its spectacular fall foliage , but it's an idyllic adventure any time of year, especially when the snow blankets the ground and transforms the mountains into a winter wonderland. On this journey, you'll have the opportunity to explore the breathtaking White Mountain National Forest , Swift River, Sabbaday Falls, Lower Falls, and Rocky Gorge.

The Kanc, as it's affectionately known by locals, rises to an elevation of nearly 3,000 feet. Its highest point brings you to Kancamagus Pass on the flank of Mount Kancamagus near Lincoln, New Hampshire. Start your road trip in Conway and stop at the Saco Ranger Station just west of town to pick up a map and plan your points of interest. Key attractions include the Albany Covered Bridge, built in 1858, and picturesque Sabbaday Falls. The romantic route will end in Lincoln, where you can stay overnight at The Mountain Club on Loon , which is open year-round and perfect for ski season.

Historic Route 66: Chicago to Los Angeles

Stretching from Chicago to the end of the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, this 2,400-mile route is often called the "Mother Road" — a nickname coined by author John Steinbeck. The ultimate American road trip experience, this drive can be turned into a romantic week-long trip filled with fascinating stops along the way. Start your journey in Chicago , where you can share a deep-dish pizza and admire the masterpieces at the Art Institute of Chicago before heading to Tulsa, Oklahoma, to visit the Blue Dome District , a nine-block area with trendy eateries, pubs, boutiques, and nightlife venues. Another highlight here is the revitalized Blue Dome building, a former 1920s-era Gulf Oil station that occasionally hosts festivals.

Next, stop at the graffiti-covered Cadillac Ranch art installation in Amarillo, Texas (don't forget your spray paint!), and in New Mexico, soak in Albuquerque's unique vintage shops, stopping at the historic Route 66 neon sign for a photo op. In Arizona, check out the Petrified Forest National Park , but don't take any of the rocks or wood — legend says it could be bad luck for your romance. Finally, end your journey in sunny California at the Santa Monica Pier. Now that you've made it to the Golden State, reward yourself with a luxurious stay at Santa Monica Proper , which epitomizes the quintessential, laidback Californian lifestyle.

Oregon’s Scenic Coast

While driving up Highway 101 along the Oregon coast, your first stop will be the picturesque Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor . Here, 12 miles of lush forest meets untouched beaches, massive jagged rocks, and blue water. Visit Arch Rock Picnic Area and Natural Bridges before stopping at the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area . Stay overnight at Hallmark Resort in Newport, where rooms come with oceanfront balconies. The property also has a public path that leads directly to the beach.

Next, drive the Three Capes Scenic Loop and admire Haystack Rock, an impressive 235-foot sea stack formation on Cannon Beach. Then, visit Ecola State Park before holding a romantic bonfire at Cannon Beach. End your journey in the resort city of Seaside and enjoy its historic arcade, old-fashioned carousel, bumper cars, and indoor miniature golf. The loser has to buy the winner some signature Seaside saltwater taffy.

The Overseas Highway: Miami to the Florida Keys

The Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West offers a drive like no other. Suspended over water nearly the entire time, this 113-mile roadway crosses 42 bridges from Miami to the southernmost point of the U.S. (You'll be closer to Cuba than you are to Miami by the end of this road trip.) Romantic duos will first hit Key Largo, home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park . You can enjoy a view of the reef from a glass-bottom boat tour or get a closer look by scuba diving or snorkeling at this underwater playground.

Next up is Marathon, where you can meet rescued and rehabilitated marine mammals at the Dolphin Research Center and explore the 1,000-acre Curry Hammock State Park . Then, you'll drive over the Seven Mile Bridge — the longest bridge in Florida — before arriving at Big Pine Key. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the elusive Key deer and spend the night at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , just off Little Torch Key. Now, you're only around 45 minutes north of Key West, but you'll want to stop at Mangrove Mama's , a landmark restaurant on Sugarloaf Key serving fresh local seafood. End in Key West at Mallory Square, just in time for the romantic Sunset Celebration , a nightly event with live music, street performers, and local vendors.

Montana’s Glacier Country

Mountain biking, hiking, and some of the world's best skiing are just a few of the offerings in Big Sky Country. Begin your romantic road trip in Missoula, Montana's cultural hub and home to the University of Montana. Relax in the nearby natural hot springs or float down the river while sampling local craft beer with River City Brews Rafting Tours .

After that, drive up to Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi, with over 200 square miles of water for sailing, fly-fishing, and waterskiing. For remarkable views of Flathead Lake, spend the night at Mountain Lake Lodge in Bigfork. Continue another 40 miles north to Whitefish, which offers prime hiking and skiing opportunities. You can also enjoy a coffee roasting tour at Montana Coffee Traders . Cap things off with a hike surrounded by majestic mountains and lakeside scenery in Glacier National Park .

Utah’s Scenic Byway 12

Scenic Byway 12 in Utah presents 120-plus miles of designated " All-American Road ." At its summit of 9,000 feet, you can appreciate sweeping vistas of the Henry Mountains, Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument , and the shimmering red rocks of Capitol Reef National Park . Begin your drive in Panguitch and explore the scenery of Red Canyon and Bryce Canyon National Park .

Next, take in the views at Kodachrome Basin State Park before spending a night at glamping destination Escalante Yurts. The stars in the light-pollution-free Utah sky are undeniably romantic. Make a point to visit the Escalante Petrified Forest State Park and grab an espresso and pastry at Kiva Koffeehouse . Before concluding your journey, spend an afternoon exploring Capitol Reef National Park.

Pacific Coast Highway: San Luis Obispo to San Francisco

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

Nothing says California dreamin' like seaside scenery combined with the tranquil atmosphere of Big Sur. Start in San Luis Obispo , heading up Highway 1 through the seaside town of Morro Bay . Watch sea otters at Morro Rock and stop for vegan and vegetarian fare at Shine Cafe or a latte at the dog-friendly Top Dog Coffee Bar .

Farther up the coast is Ragged Point, where you can catch a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Big Sur coastline. Spend the night at Ragged Point Inn and Resort and hike down Ragged Point Trail for unparalleled views of the sea and a hidden waterfall. Enjoy the atmosphere of this laidback, two-lane highway and make stops at McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach , where the sand sometimes turns purple after the rain. Leaving Big Sur, you'll hit Monterey County, where you can walk along Cannery Row in Monterey and check out Carmel's historic antique shops. Then, embark on the scenic 17-mile drive in Pebble Beach for more incredible coastal views. Bonus points if you can hit Santa Cruz and its sturdy redwood forests and Half Moon Bay's tide pools before reaching the final destination on your road trip. Romantic views of the Golden Gate Bridge from the adjacent Marin Headlands await in San Francisco.

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