long weekend travel

The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

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

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

Stowe, Vermont

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

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

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

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

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

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

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

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

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

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

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

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

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

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

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

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

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

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

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

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

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

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

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

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

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

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

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

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

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

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

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

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

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

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

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

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

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

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

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

Read Reviews Congress Hall

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

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

@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-transform:scale(-1, 1);-moz-transform:scale(-1, 1);-ms-transform:scale(-1, 1);transform:scale(-1, 1);background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-1jdielu:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-1jdielu:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}} Travel @media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0.625rem 0.625rem 0;width:3.5rem;-webkit-filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);filter:invert(17%) sepia(72%) saturate(710%) hue-rotate(181deg) brightness(97%) contrast(97%);height:1.5rem;content:'';display:inline-block;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-128xfoy:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/townandcountrymag/static/images/diamond-header-design-element.80fb60e.svg);}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-128xfoy:before{margin:0 0.625rem 0.25rem;}}

The Bigger Than Your Everyday Tote to Travel With

The Best Room At... The St. Regis Washington D.C.

Inside the Legal Battle Over a Rockefeller Retreat

A Snob's Guide to Summer in the Berkshires

Etiquette 101: Paris Tips and Tricks

What's New in the Hamptons This Summer?

Best Room At... Castelfalfi

The Best Room at... Shangri-La Paris

A Snob's Guide to the Jersey Shore

The 10 Best Garment Bags for Travel

Score a Four-Pack of Apple Airtags for 20% Off

Top Destinations

• Food + Drink

Explore the best of the world. Access insider tips and hotel recommendations from our travel tastemakers

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

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

America’s Best Long Weekend Getaways

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

See recent posts by Kathryn O'Shea-Evans

Subscribe to Jetsetter's YouTube Channel

Asheville, North Carolina

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

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

Seattle, Washington

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

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

Miami Beach, Florida

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

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

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

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

Austin, Texas

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

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

Chicago, Illinois

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

Boulder, Colorado

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

New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

Savannah, Georgia

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

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

San Diego, California

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

Portland, Oregon

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

Palm Springs, California

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

RELATED: The Coolest Things to Do in Palm Springs

Shelter Island, New York

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

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

What to Pack

Traveling this season? Don’t forget to pack some of our favorites from Everlane, Shopbop, and more.

Women's Slingback Heel Outfit

Shop the look.

Slingback Heel

Shoulder Bag

Collapsible Bottle

Men's cool white spring outfit.

Chino Shorts

Wool Runners

Insulated Water Bottle

• JS Editors’ Favorite Hotel Deals of the Week
• 17 Chic Travel Toiletry and Makeup Bags to Buy Now
• 10 Stylish—and Affordable!—Places to Fly This Winter (2019)

All products are independently selected by our writers and editors. If you buy something through our links, Jetsetter may earn an affiliate commission.

Become a Jetsetter.

Use our insider connections to know where to go and what to do.

Thanks for Signing Up!

Related Tags

Explore more.

The Omni Grove Park Inn

Banner Elk Winery and Villa

8 Romantic Fall Weekend Trips to Take with a Significant Other

5 Amazing Summer Road Trips to Take This August

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

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

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

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

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

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

From Los Angeles

Catalina Island

Catalina Island, California

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

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

Palm Springs

Palm Springs, California

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

Paso Robles

Paso Robles, California

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

San Diego, California

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

From Chicago

Southwest Michigan

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

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

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

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

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

Cave Point in Door County

Door County, Wisconsin

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

From Washington, D.C.

Crystal Grottoes in Boonsboro

Boonsboro, Maryland

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

Alexandria, Virginia

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

Bodie Island Light Station in Cape Hatteras

Cape Hatteras, North Carolina

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

Great Smoky Mountains

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

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

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

Cassadaga, Florida

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

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

Dali Museum in St. Petersburg

St. Petersburg, Florida

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

Key West, Florida

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

The Everglades

The Everglades, Florida

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

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

From Dallas

Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Oklahoma

Chickasaw Country, Oklahoma

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

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

Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg and wine country, Texas

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

Round Top, Texas

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

Palo Duro, Texas

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

Recommended

Hotel Lilien

The Woodhouse Lodge

North America Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

25 Best Weekend Getaways in The USA (2024)

Written By: The Planet D

United States

Updated On: June 11, 2024

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

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

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

Best Weekend Getaway in the USA

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

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

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

1. Boston, Massachusetts

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

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

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

2. Charleston, South Carolina

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

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

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

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

3. Savannah, Georgia

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

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

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

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

4. Washington DC

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

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

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

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

5. Miami, Florida

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

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

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

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

6. New York City, New York

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

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

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

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

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

7. Redwood National and State Parks, California

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

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

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

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

8. Seattle, Washington

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

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

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

9. San Francisco, California

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

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

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

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

10. Los Angeles, California

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

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

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

11. San Diego, California

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

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

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

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

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

12. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

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

13. Cincinnati, Ohio

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

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

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

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

14. Mount Rushmore National Park, South Dakota

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

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

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

15. Detroit, Michigan

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

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

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

16. Minneapolis, Minnesota

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

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

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

17. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

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

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

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

18. Chicago, Illinois

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

19. Las Vegas, Nevada

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

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

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

20. Asheville, North Carolina

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

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

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

21. Dallas, Texas

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

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

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

22. Salt Lake City, Utah

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

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

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

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

23. Gulf Shores, Alabama

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

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

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

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

24. New Orleans, Louisiana

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

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

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

25. Nashville, Tennessee

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

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

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

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

Our Favourite Weekend Getaways in The USA

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

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

Plan Your Next Weekend Getaway With These Resources

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

Travel Planning Resources

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

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

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

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

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

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

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

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

You May Also Like

15 Fascinating Fun Facts About Hawaii You Will Love

Where to Stay In And Around Zion National Park: Our Favourite Places

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A First Timers Guide to The Best Places

About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

Join thousands of others who get our monthly updates!

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

1 thought on “25 Best Weekend Getaways in The USA (2024)”

Loved your post. I just moved from Napa Valley to South Carolina and have been to most of the towns you mentioned. Like the tips you include. Of the towns you listed, my favourites are Napa, Savannah, New Orleans, Nashville, and Ashville. Thanks for your post. Reading each section brings back fun memories.

Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The Best Long Weekend Summer Getaways

Let the long weekend season begin.

Summer is in full swing, which means we are gearing up for al fresco lunches, summer Fridays, and long weekend getaways in our favorite spots across the country.

When choosing destinations for some much needed R&R, our editors are as discerning as you'd expect, and are on the hunt for the best shopping, dining, and luxury stays one can find. Here, our short list for a quick and easy summer holiday–from the beaches of the Caribbean to some of New England's hidden gems.

The Hamptons, NY

This is likely New York's most predictable getaway, but the trick is knowing which town to visit for the type of escape you're after . A lot of the hotels, like The Surf Lodge and Sole East, offer a smorgasbord of fitness classes (like y7 and Model Fit) for weekenders to get their workouts in. For a proper pool scene, enjoy a glass of rose at The Montauk Beach House . For a more chill, dive bar feel, I like Stephen Talkhouse in Amagansett. Popular city spots such as The Elk, Bluestone Lane coffee shops, and the new self-care hotspot JECT have also popped up out East. I recommend all of the above. — Natasha Huang Smith, BAZAAR.com Travel Contributor

Greenport, NY

Just on the other side of the Hamptons in Long Island is the North Fork and Greenport. There are countless vineyards, places to pick berries, beaches on the Long Island Sound (67 Steps Beach is a favorite) and great restaurants. In town we love going on the Ferris wheel, eating at American Beech , and having lunch at The Market , a health food store. We stayed at the newly opened Menhaden last time we were in town and it was charming, yet cool. - Kerry Pieri, Fashion/Features Director

If you're in the mood for live music, a bustling food scene, and a hint of nature, Austin is the perfect city to escape to for a long weekend. South Congress and E. 6th St. are full of unique shops, bars, and food trucks that will keep you outside and exploring all day long. I'd also highly recommend making a trip down to Lake Austin for some paddle boarding and other fun water activities. Shack up at the South Congress Hotel , which has become a personal favorite. The art deco decor and rooftop pool provide the perfect setting to unwind after a long day. — Lauren Sheffield, Content Strategy Manager

Cape Cod, MA

My family and I have been going to Cape Cod for the past few years and typically stay on the mansion side of Ocean Edge Resort , which puts us right in between Nauset and Skaket Beaches, the two most popular waterfronts in the area. For a more luxurious stay, I highly recommend Wequassett Resort and Golf Club that comes complete with waterfront views, which aren't as easy to find as one would expect on the Cape. The tide at Skaket Beach goes out for miles; I can't resist walking out as far as I can midday, heading back as the tide rolls in, and then sticking around to watch the sunset. When we're not diving into tempura haricot verts and margaritas at The Barley Neck Inn in Orleans, we like to indulge in a perfectly-prepared dinner at ABBA , which puts twists on Mediterranean flavors and offers a more upscale dining experience with an expertly curated wine list. If you're in the mood for something sweet, stop by the Hot Chocolate Sparrow for their unforgettable homemade fudge. If you're overwhelmed by the amount of options, you cannot go wrong with their classic chocolate walnut fudge, paired with a cappuccino. — Carrie Goldberg, Travel & Weddings Director

Charleston, SC

A brilliant, colorful city inspired by the fusion of the old and the new, the charm of Charleston gets me every time. The latest embodiment of this intangible charm is the recently opened Hotel Bennett , a grand oasis of inspired quiet luxury, and gateway to Camellia’s Champagne Bar . A jewel-box shaped gem adorned with reclaimed pink marble from the library that once stood in its place, Camellia's is a hotspot for cooling off on a warm afternoon saddled up with Veuve Clicquot. If you're looking for a home away from home in this city, look no further than Zero George , with perfectly appointed rooms all nestled off a quaint courtyard. Here, you check in off the breakfast room and inside the kitchen, where chef Vinson Petrillo creates some of the best food you'll eat in this city. The recent culinary renaissance here requires constant innovation and Tradd’s , owned by native Charlestonians, does just that with its seasonal menu of elevated, refined takes on southern classics. A trip to Charleston wouldn’t be complete without an afternoon spent in the Brewery District, a hub of craft breweries all a short bike ride’s distance apart, perfect to grab a pint while feeling the unmatched beat of this captivating city. - Tom Marchant, co-founder, Black Tomato & BAZAAR.com Travel Contributor

The Catskills, NY

Most weekends, long or short, I'll be upstate in the Catskills jumping into secret swimming holes and eating really good food. My favorite restaurants include Brushland Eating House (try the pork schnitzel), Wilde Beest (new on the scene in Kingston) and Prospect (inside the hip Scribner’s Catskill Lodge ). Located in Kingston with Parisian vibes, you'll find Brunette , a natural wine bar serving up a curated selection of local drinks, small bites and under-the-radar music; Rough Draft , where you can order books and beer; Hops Petunia , an incredibly chic flower shop-come-home-goods store; Clove and Creek , my favorite spot for gift shopping; and Lovefield Vintage , the best vintage store in New York State—in my humble opinion. As far as places to stay, I like to rotate between The Spruceton Inn , Scribner’s Catskill Lodge , Brushland’s Owls Nest , and good old-fashion camping. — Olivia Fleming, Features Director

I always jet to Miami for a long weekend and spend as much time as I can at the EDITION —you can dance all night there, lounge by the pool, go bowling (yes, bowling) and in some seasons, you can even ice skate there. I spend most of the day on the beach and then head to The Matador Room for dinner. When I am in town, I always have to stop by The Webster —they are the go-to for all things chic in South Beach, and in their other locations. - Chrissy Rutherford, Special Projects Director

Newport, RI

I love renting a house and grilling clams in the evening with a glass of wine, or staying at the perfectly-nautical Castle Hill Inn , which is also a prime spot for Champagne and oysters at sunset. Newport is home to some of the country's most historic estates, from The Breakers and The Elms to Marble House , built for the Vanderbilts in the late 1800's. Spend your days visiting one beautiful estate after the next, then stroll along the town's famous Cliff Walk at sunset before heading to dinner. Take a boat out for a sail during the day, looking on to the gorgeous estates from the water is one of the the most relaxing ways to spend an afternoon. - Joyann King, Executive Editorial Director, BAZAAR.com

Philadelphia, PA

My favorite go-to spot is usually my hometown, Philadelphia. It's less than a two-hour train or bus ride from New York City, and there is plenty of good food, shopping and sight-seeing to enjoy while there. My favorite spot to stay is The Rittenhouse Hotel , which puts you right in the middle of Philly's Rittenhouse Square, and has the best spa in the city. The hotel offers a girl's weekend getaway package called The Sip, Spa & Stay which includes three 30-minute spa treatments, the hotel's famous afternoon tea and luxury accommodations. Shopping wise, Rittenhouse Square and Old City have the best boutiques, street markets and stores to visit. I also love the Philadelphia Museum of Art and if you can, try to see the ballet at the Academy of Music —it's the most beautiful building. For foodies, you have to visit Reading Terminal Market and of course, you can't leave without trying a cheesesteak from either Pat's or Geno's . - Lauren Fisher, Market Editor

Pittsburgh, PA

The food scene in Pittsburgh never ceases to impress, and some truly amazing dinners are to be had at spots like Umami , Tako and Meat & Potatoes . Drinks at Butcher & The Rye are a must, and the brunch at The Commoner in the Hotel Monaco is a definite must–they have a Bloody Mary Bar that's an experience in and of itself, with options to infuse, rim and top your cocktail with a menu of different flavors. Andy Warhol is a Pittsburgh native, and much of his work can be seen in the museum dedicated to his works on the North Shore.

For a nice walk, head to the Duquesne Incline for amazing views. Shopping in Pittsburgh is full of hidden gems; I love the vintage shops in Shadyside (shops like Hey Betty! and EONS are my favorites). If you're after something sweet, stop by Milly's for homemade ice cream before heading out to the suburbs for antiquing. If you're up for a treasure hunt, The Wexford General Store is filled with goodies, if you tale the time to look. — Carrie Goldberg, Travel & Weddings Director

Naples is only 45 minutes west of Fort Lauderdale—and it's such a fabulous spot for a (quiet and relaxing) beach vacation. The sand, water, and sunsets are insanely beautiful since it's right on the Gulf of Mexico. You're going to want to spend your entire weekend on the sand or in the water, but if you do sneak away, there are so many fabulous restaurants and shopping centers. If you can afford to rent one of the beach-side homes, go for it, otherwise check out the Naples Beach Hotel & Golf Club or the Ritz Carlton .—Jenna Rosenstein, Beauty Director

Portland, ME

Whenever I am in Portland, I love to stay at the Danforth Inn , a mansion that's been converted to a luxury boutique hotel. There is a gorgeous point of the property where you can see the ships pass by in the bay while you are having your morning coffee.

The restaurant on site is incredible; the homemade breakfast that's served each morning is enough of a reason to make the trip each year. When I am not dining at Danforth, the scallops at J's Oyster are the best I've ever had. It's a small local favorite that gets pretty crowded with tourists in high season, but don't let that detract from its quality. Before you head out, make sure to take a scenic tour on a sailboat at sunset. The historic lighthouse, Portland Head Light , is pretty any time of year. — Jennifer Algoo, Visuals Director

Savannah, GA

Savannah is a great long-weekend getaway regardless of the season, and it’s not too overwhelming to tackle in a couple of days. Forsyth Park is an no-brainer tourist attraction, but for a more local touch, hit up the farmer’s market if you’re there on a Saturday morning.

The Collins Quarter and Little Duck Diner are essential brunch spots, while Bull Street Taco and Flying Monk Noodle Bar offer great budget-friendly meals. For a cup of coffee, check out the SCAD-favorite Foxy Loxy Cafe , and for a drink with an old-fashioned flair, stop by the speakeasy Congress Street Up . The city is abounding with antique and vintage shops on nearly every corner; Civvies , The Future on Forsyth , and House of Strut were a few of my favorites. If you have a moment, take a stroll through the Spanish moss-lined Jones Street, named one of the most beautiful streets in America. Your Instagram will thank you. — Erica Gonzales, News & Entertainment Editor

Shelter Island, NY

Shelter Island is a sleepy one—and that's why I love it so much. It's the perfect escape from the city's summer haze, and a quiet foil for the "see-and-be-seen" atmosphere that the Hamptons is best known for. On a single day, I can sunbathe poolside at Shelter Island House , ride a ferry over to Sag Harbor for froyo and shopping at Urban Zen , then make it back to Sunset Beach for a glass of St. Germain and Champagne. If I'm there the weekend after July Fourth, I'll always take in the island's annual fireworks show. — Angel Lenise, Supervising Video Producer, Elle.com

Bethany Beach, DE

I've spent a week in Bethany Beach every year since infancy, and it's my ideal spot for unplugging; all you need is some sunscreen, a portable speaker, and a good read . Matt's Fish Camp is my go-to for take-out lobster rolls on the beach, but if you feel like venturing out, Berlin, Maryland is a 40-minute drive away and has great antiquing. Difebo's does an incredible job for both brunch and dinner. — Julie Kosin, Director of Audience Strategy & Entertainment

San Juan, Puerto Rico

You probably know Serafina for their chain of Italian restaurants that stretch from New York to Dubai. But last year, the group expanded into hospitality and opened their first-ever hotel in San Juan, Puerto Rico, just a short walk from their local dining outpost in the city. Tucked on a narrow strip of land between Laguna de Condado and the Atlantic Ocean, the Serafina Beach Hotel has a modern boutique aesthetic, a contrast to the nearby old- school, large-scale resort hotels. The rooms are modern but homey, furnished in shades of blues and greens that make you feel like the waves outside your floor-to-ceiling windows are crashing right on the foot of your bed.

You can walk around the bustling Condado area in the evening or take a 10-minute cab ride to Old San Juan for a night out or an afternoon sightseeing around the city's old forts and citadels. Or, while away the day in Serafina's beachfront infinity pool, stare into the ocean, and fantasize about just how long you can stretch your long weekend for. — Nojan Aminosharei, Entertainment Director

Palm Beach, FL

Palm Beach has the wonderful beaches that Florida is known for, but with a relaxed, chic atmosphere that feels more low key than the scene of Miami Beach. There are so many sunny spots along the shore, so it’s easy to spend the day hopping around from beach to beach (of course stopping in between to pick up a frozen lemonade from Checkers, my go-to.)

There are a ton of great food places, but my favorite spot for dinner is Buccan . It has a moody, but tropical vibe—and you must try the squid ink orecchiette. The shopping on Worth Avenue is incredible, and with it’s sky-high palm trees, just walking it is a luxurious experience. If you’re feeling particularly glamorous, you can opt to stay at The Breakers , but you can’t go wrong with Airbnb. Cucina is the place to go at night, with great music, dancing, and neon signs, and it somehow still has a beach-town feel. Before you head out, make sure to hit up Celis Produce for the best smoothies around. — Ingrid Frahm, Digital Designer

Carrie Goldberg is HarpersBAZAAR.com’s Weddings & Travel Director. She oversees the site’s BAZAAR Bride channel, travel & dining content, and styles fashion and bridal editorials for BAZAAR.com. When she’s not traveling, she spends her free time in her hometown–New York City–where there is no shortage of new places to shop, eat, drink, see and explore.

The Culture List

20 Female Artists You Need to Know

The Best Halloween Films on Netflix

Your Ultimate Guide to The Hamptons' Chicest Shops

12 Songs to Jam Out to This Spring (or Right Now)

#TheLIST: The Guide to a Fashion-Forward Registry

Shop Jonathan Adler's Home Collection with Amazon

How To Mix Different Design Styles In Your Home

The Best Female Art Exhibitions to See This Fall

Where to Stay, Shop, Drink, & Dine During MFW

Inside the New goop x CB2 Home Décor Collection

Where to Eat & Drink During New York Fashion Week

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Romantic Getaways

The Best Weekend Getaways for Couples

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

Patrick Tappe/EyeEm/Getty Images

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

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

Montreal, Canada

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

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

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

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

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

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

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

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

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

Palm Springs, California

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

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

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

Walland, Tennessee

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

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

Charleston, South Carolina

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

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

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

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

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

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

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

Paso Robles, California

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

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

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

Park City, Utah

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

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

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

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

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

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

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

New Paltz, New York

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

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

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

Related Articles

20 Unexpected Weekend Getaways to Plan This Summer

You're going to want to plan a trip ASAP to one of these under-the-radar locales that offer outdoor fun, unique attractions, and delicious eats.

Cape Charles, Virginia

It's pretty hard to stress when you're steps away from the ocean. It's even harder to stress when you're in the laid-back community of Cape Charles, Virginia. Friendly locals, enticing eats ( The Shanty  is known for its seafood baskets and popping live music scene), and quirky shops (if you're an olive oil enthusiast, load up at Drizzles ) all set the scene for endless beach days. Or, at least, they feel that way thanks to a sprawling pier and boardwalk where you can take in orange-pink sunsets. If you're not renting a beach house with a big group, try the funky Cape Charles Hotel where the beds are so comfy, you'll want to know how to replicate them at home (fear not: a binder inside the room reveals the secret).

For more information, visit capecharles.org .

Branford and Guilford, Connecticut

You're probably wondering what magical cruise is pictured above, so we'll get that out of the way first. Launching out of Branford's idyllic Stony Creek neighborhood, board the Sea Mist for the happiest of hours on a public tour or private charter. Now, back to these two scene-stealing Long Island Sound shoreline communities. Make your sleeping quarters The Kelsey House Bed & Breakfast , a 19th century residence with a wraparound porch you'll want to sit on forever. How about those bayside views overlooking a craggy bluff? When you're ready to peel yourself away, check out the Guilford Town Green , one of the country's most pristine town greens, and home of a free walking or self-guided tour. In the summer, enjoy plenty of live theater and music or wander along the green's many boutiques and restaurants.

For more information, visit ctvisit.com .

Grand Forks, North Dakota

Summer really brings the quaint town of Grand Forks to life. First meander through Town Square Farmer's Market (the famed wild chokecherry mini pies are a must). Then, check out Grand Forks Japanese Garden in Sertoma Park, a picturesque and historic area that kids will love, too. If you're craving a shopping break, check out Kittsona for wardrobe swag and accessories you won't be able to resist picking up for your friends as gifts (the owners actually met at the farmer's market!). Meanwhile, you'll probably want to refuel, so check out Sky's , a romantic second-story epicurean haven where the pan-seared scallops melt in your mouth. Come time for slumber, check out the charming 511 Reeves , a Victorian-style bed and breakfast dating back to 1901.

For more information, visit ndtourism.com .

Tallahassee, Florida

Perhaps best known for being Florida's capital, this oft-overlooked city is brimming with outdoor adventure. Beeline to Tallahassee Museum's unique Tree-to-Tree Adventures zipline and obstacle course. Or, soak up the scenery on a boat cruise along Wakulla Springs , one of the world's deepest freshwater springs, where you'll see plenty of unique wildlife and bird species. Feeling sporty? Test your archery skills at Florida's Apalachee-Spanish Living History Museum . After, you'll have a hard time choosing between two equally delectable activities: 1) Old-school ice cream parlor Lofty Pursuits ("Banana Creations" live up to their hype) and 2) Strolling along a row of tiki torches to The Bradfordville Blues Club , a celebrated stop on the National Blues trail. Why not squeeze in both and make a quick pitstop at the Aloft Tallahassee to change clothes (and perhaps wipe any lingering chocolate sauce smudges off your face)?

For more information, visit visittallahassee.com .

The Crystal Coast, North Carolina

There's nothing quite as charming as biking through Beaufort on vintage bikes (pedaling or walking with Hungry Town Tours , anyone?). There's also the marvelous Diamond Lady Lighthouse which stands out against the purple-streaked sky at sunset. But, perhaps our favorite way to spend a long weekend on the Crystal Coast is sitting in a kayak, watching a group of wild mustang horses gallop dramatically across the pristine landscape. Wander along the dock until you settle on a spot to dig into the catch of the day. Lovingly dubbed "sand castles," check into one of the region's many rentals that overlook the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Sound, like the gorgeous Seas the Day , with an ocean-facing patio that's giving us some serious wanderlust.

For more information, visit crystalcoastnc.org .

The Dalles, Oregon

The highway beckons: Road trip! And talk about a spectacular drive . But as you head east on I-84, perhaps the most magnificent scene-stealer is the 611-foot cascading Multnomah Falls , that you can view from the parking lot or hike to the top of (seriously, get out of your car!). On-the-move types will also enjoy hiking to Oneota Falls —at this slot canyon, the water is the trail! Check in for the night at The Cousins Country Inn  and enjoy the many jewels of this historic Native American trading spot, like perusing Klindt's Booksellers , the oldest bookstore in Oregon, or  indulging in a libation an 1883 courthouse, Clock Tower Ales . Rodeo fan? Pendleton Roundup (September 13-16,2017) is one of the ten largest in the world.

For more information, visit visiteasternoregon.com .

Laconia, New Hampshire

It's impossible not to be happy with a waffle in hand from the industrial-chic Wayfarer Coffee Roasters , a bustling community hub. This welcoming area is also home to the world-famous utopia of Kellerhaus , a sprawling old-timey chocolate shop that's been family-owned since 1906. With these indoor attractions wrapped up, enjoy a day kayaking on the crystal Lake Opechee at Lake Opechee Inn and Spa or checking out the Winnipesaukee Scenic Railroad (okay, that's technically inside). Tack on an extra night to journey an hour north to the Woodstock Inn & Brewery , a one-of-a-kind 1800s railroad station that's been refurbished into a White Mountains lodging and noshing favorite—don't miss the craft beers and the much-loved "Loon Dip."

For more information, visit lakesregion.org .

Branson, Missouri

Summer is the perfect time to set sail on  Table Rock Lake  where memories of your own childhood lake vacations will start flooding back (especially aboard the  Branson Belle  dinner cruise). And while  Silver Dollar City  may be known for its theme park, it's also worth checking out  Marvel Cave , to soak up all its limestone glory. In 2017, Silver Dollar City is celebrating "The Year of Food and Crafts," fitting for the only American theme park to have a cooking school on its grounds (trust, you'll want to order a BBQ sundae). The park also has a unique program for local Ozark artisans to work and sell their wares. Forgo hotel bookings for log cabin life at  White River Lodge  B&B where the sunrise views of Table Rock Lake are enough to sway even the most adamant of city inhabitants to consider living life in the MO lane.

For more information, visit  branson.com .

Healdsburg, California

Picnics? Wine tasting? Winery tours? Yes to all of the above at SIMI Winery , where redwood trees warmly welcome you to the sprawling property that dates back to 1876 and now has only female winemakers at the helm. When you're done wine trail-ing it, check into the  Hotel Healdsburg (the garden pool offers drinks and food in the summer) or the Grape Leaf Inn (a Victorian residence where staff ought to place signs on your door that read "Don't skip breakfast!"). Spend your days exploring the quaint downtown or take a cooking class with Relish Culinary Adventures . To spike your adrenaline, try an outing with touring company Wine Country Bikes or boating outfitter Russian River Adventures . To spike your BAC levels, check out Alexander Valley Vineyards where there's an entire half acre of underground caves (!) or Trattore Farms , which offers both wine and olive oil tastings. Want the best views in town? Go up, up, and away with Up & Away Hot Air Ballooning .

For more information, visit healdsburg.com .

Washington, Connecticut

If you're visiting this northwestern Connecticut town, hole up at the Mayflower Grace for your very own slice of Constitution State Shangri-La. While there, enjoy dazzling cuisine, enchanted landscaped gardens and woodlands, or a dip in the pool. Dying to learn a new skill? Get off-property with the hotel's " Art of Fly Fishing " program at the nearby Housatonic River or head out sans guides to Mount Tom State Park for beaching, hiking to the summit's lookout tower, or both. And unless you want to miss an insanely tasty meal, don't skip town without visiting G.W. Tavern, where the hand-painted murals alone make the detour worth it (though the aptly-named "Obsession Cake" isn't to be missed, either).

For more information, visit washingtonct.org .

Alpharetta, Georgia

With on-point service and insane eats, hungry travelers to Alpharetta ought to make Colletta their first destination to welcome themselves to a peachier state of mind (the peach and gorgonzola pizza certainly helps with that). Gather up the crew (don't forget helmets and snacks for hungry kids!) and check out Big Creek Greenway for a day spent biking, blading, or bird watching. Freshen up at the Wingate by Wyndham —it's pet friendly if you want to bring Rover along—before venturing out to Matilda's for live music. In the summer, they offer "Matilda's Under the Pines," where regional acts will serenade you underneath a starry night sky and those gorgeous Peach State pines. Pets are allowed here too, so if you brought along your furry friend, be sure to include him on the fun!

For more information, visit awesomealpharetta.com .

Brewster, Massachusetts

Here's a small Cape Cod town well worth adding to your vacation radar. Perched on nearly 430 acres, Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club will make it exceedingly hard to leave thanks to its great dining, biking, and indoor and outdoor pools. Catch the sunset at the beach bar with your better half while plotting your next day in this New England gem. Brought the kids? Drop them off at the beach for some s'mores-making fun. Come daylight, spend the remaining time on your getaway enjoying that salty sea breeze with leisurely trips to the Stony Brook Grist Mill (open only in the summer), antiquing, and setting up shop at the area's many beaches.

For more information, visit capecodtravel.com .

Fort Worth, Texas

Lasso up! They don't dub Fort Worth a "City of Cowboys and Culture" for nothing. First, those cowboys: Head to the Stockyard National Historic District to whet your appetite for an authentic, old American West experience. There, enjoy the twice-daily cattle drive The Fort Worth Herd and weekly rodeos at Stockyards Championship Rodeo . Behind every good cowboy, is a winning (National) Cowgirl (Museum), should time allow for you to explore. Then, make like Bonnie and Clyde (really, it was one of the duo's hideouts) at Stockyards Hotel which muddles the best of game hunting lodges with a serene boutique hotel stay. Now, for that dose of culture, venture to Kimbell Art Museum , Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth , and  Amon Carter Museum of American Art . Or, if you prefer your dose of culture in audible form, slink into the welcoming embrace of Billy Bob's , a Texan staple and world's largest Honky Tonk—it's hosted musical greats from Ray Charles to Blake Shelton.

For more information, visit fortworth.com .

Ocean Springs, Mississippi

Start your day right with other-worldly biscuits and pour-over coffee at Greenhouse on Porter and end it with live music at Government Street Grocery . Everything else, we leave up to you. Though, if you're looking for some inspiration in this storybook town located next to the Mississippi Sound and dotted with live oak, here goes. First, book your time to count sheep at The Inn at Ocean Springs . Then, earn your supper by hitting the water for a stand-up paddleboarding session with PaddlesUp before treating yourself to Lola Fleur , where you can pack up a delectable spread for a waterfront picnic (okay, you earned a handmade fruity, herb-infused popsicle at Pop Brothers , too). That charming coastal picnic we speak of? Try the Davis Bayou Area . 

For more information, visit gulfcoast.org .

New Paltz, New York

An unexpected gem—well, castle may be closer to it—outside of New York City, Mohonk Mountain House  glimmers in all its lakeside beauty. All-inclusive pricing makes dining and activity-planning (and believe us, there's something for everyone) a cinch, but whatever you do, don't skip a leisurely stroll with loved ones through the beautifully kept gardens.  Every day presents a giant schedule of events, classes, and activities, but if you can, sneak off for a spa treatment (preferably after conquering a majestic hike or a restorative dip in the lake). When you're ready to get off campus, be sure to see Huguenot Street , where time seems to stand still in a Hudson Valley community first settled in 1678. There, you can enjoy grounds tours, historic reenactments, and even tea time.

For more information, visit newpaltzchamber.org .

Black Hills, South Dakota

In July 2017, the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Annual Wacipi will celebrate its 150th anniversary. Why does that make it an ideal time for visitors? Well, you'll be able to witness the oldest powwow in South Dakota and learn more about Native American Culture. Events will include a Moccasin Tournament, grass dancing, and more in the spiritually revered Black Hills. While in town, an excursion to Crazy Horse Memorial , a grand mountain carving, should earn a spot on your agenda, as should a trip to Bear Butte State Park , where not only are the hikes breathtaking, but the colorful prayer cloths hanging throughout also make for a special experience. For lodging, Celebrity Hotel in downtown Deadwood has an outdoor deck and firepit, guaranteed to help you make summer memories late into the evening.

For more information, visit travelsouthdakota.com .

Medora, North Dakota

Start your summer getaway on an upbeat note at Medora Musical , a playful, western-style musical show dedicated to the legacy of Theodore Roosevelt where patrons also get to enjoy the fresh, country air and gorgeous views from the  2,900-seat Burning Hills Amphitheater. You can also get into cowboy mode by  horseback riding or checking out the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame . When you're ready to ditch your saddle, cozy up at the Rough Riders Hotel or enjoy camping under the wide open sky  in the majestic Theodore Roosevelt National Park . Hungry? It's hard to beat Pitchfork Steak Fondue , an outdoor eatery perched on a bluff with crazy views of the Badlands.

River Ranch, Florida

This is Florida like you've never seen it before. Located about an hour south of Orlando, you'll love the family-friendly Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo , which manages to catapult you far away from conventional Sunshine State vacations. Explore your natural talent at new activities like trap and skeet shooting or archery before enjoying a swamp buggy ride and the property's classic Saturday night rodeo. You can stay in traditional camping sites or well-groomed cabins, but we suggest the recently established teepees, where a designated concierge can deliver breakfast right to your digs. You'll hardly need to leave this dude ranch for vacation fun, but driving to  nearby  Kissimmee Prairie Preserve State Park makes for a worthwhile day trip.

For more information, visitflorida.com .

Uvalde County, Texas

Snag that inner tube: You'll want to float down the secluded Frio River (nature lovers will also love canoeing, and kayaking) as enchanted Cypress trees guide the way. Continue the tree-themed fun by heading over to The Laurel Tree , which offers upscale French food with a bit of Hill Country flavor... in a treehouse ! And sure, you could book a hotel, but why not make your getaway truly memorable by holing up at Ox Ranch's luxurious antique log cabins. Or, if a vacation rental is more your thing, consider booking the new Loft at Owl Hollow , called "320-acre wonderland" by Uvalde-ians, which boasts a private saltwater pool, as well as a private spring-fed creek.

For more information, visit visituvaldecounty.com .

Heber Valley, Utah

This off-the-beaten-path gem really comes to life in the summer, with cool and pleasant temperatures to accompany your getaway (not to mention, less crowds than towns like Park City get). Called Utah's "Little Switzerland," spend your days fly fishing or hiking on and around the Provo River . Or, take an adventurous trip river rafting or backpacking in the Uinta Mountains . As the sun sets, slink into a state of happy relaxation at the Homestead Resort (the Midway Creamery crispy cheese curds and sprawling, verdant panoramas from Simon's Restaurant  are pure vacation bliss). For a truly how-is-this-happening experience venture to The Homestead Crater to bathe in the natural hot springs, snorkel or even scuba dive.

For more information, visit gohebervalley.com .

Perri is a New York City-born and -based writer; she holds a bachelor’s in psychology from Columbia University and is also a culinary school graduate of the plant-based Natural Gourmet Institute, which is now the Natural Gourmet Center at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her work has appeared in the New York Post, Men's Journal, Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Insider.com, Architectural Digest, Southern Living, and more. She's probably seen Dave Matthews Band in your hometown, and she'll never turn down a bloody mary. Learn more at VeganWhenSober.com .

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Travel .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

The Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S.

Vintage Beach Photos Show Summer Fun Is Timeless

10 Beautiful North Carolina Resorts in the Country

A Summer Weekend in Ontario's Prince Edward County

Must-Visit Ice Cream Fests Across the USA

Escape to the Emerald Coast This Summer

The 8 Best Teardrop Trailers to Use This Summer

The Perfect Itinerary for a Yellowstone Adventure

20 Rules Guests Follow at the Kentucky Derby

The Country’s Best Spots for Bird-watching

Plan a Trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan

Genius tips, tricks & beautiful things, straight to your inbox every day.

© 2010-2021 Wow Media Products, Inc doing business as PureWow. All rights reserved.

18 of America’s Best Cities for a Long Weekend

You have one long weekend and a suitcase full of wanderlust. Whether you want to escape the commotion for the mountains or leave your quiet town for the action of a buzzing metropolis, here are 18 U.S. cities—ranging from Colorado ghost towns to coastal cultural hubs—where three or four days is just enough. Let’s go.

5 Unexpected, but Totally Worthwhile, American Wine Trips

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Visit in the fall for a game at the Big House or in the summer to explore the renowned city art fair . Either way, Ann Arbor is so much more than your average college town. Get your nature fix by exploring the arboretum , nosh on some Cuban-inspired street food at Frita Batidos and embark on a scavenger hunt for the tiny fairy doors built into buildings and trees around the city.

Where to stay: Stay right on campus at the Inn at the League , a university building with lots of charm.

Asbury Park, New Jersey

This funky resort town is experiencing a major resurgence at the moment. In the summer, start your morning with sunrise yoga on the Asbury Hotel’s Baronet roof space, and then head to the famous Asbury Park Beach before you do dinner and movie back on the Baronet. Want a night out? The city has a surprisingly robust LGBTQ scene (check out Paradise for a drag show) and rock music culture (the Stone Pony, aka the birthplace of “The Boss,” is a must).

Where to stay: Stay in a former Salvation Army building turned hip hotel, The Asbury Hotel .

Asheville, North Carolina

This southern city dropped in the Blue Mountains is a breathtaking little enclave for artists and hippies. Peruse the River Arts District to find something unique for over the mantel, and replenish at funky eateries like The Admiral (which transforms into a dance party post-dinner). Hike the three-mile Pisgah Trail for the best views of the city and wind down with a beer (there are more breweries in Asheville per capita than in any other U.S. city).

Where to stay: Instead of merely visiting the famous Biltmore House , why not stay there?

Bozeman, Montana

This cowboy town is seeing lots of development in a very short amount of time; but locals are committed to maintaining its original character. The outcome? Plenty of buildings dating back to the 1890s, galleries, shops, restaurants and coffee shops ( lots of coffee shops) to peruse. Meander around Main Street’s independent book shops, and then splurge on a pair of custom kicks from Carter’s Boots . And if you want to get your Ansel Adams on, take a photography workshop at F11Photo (just don’t forget to pack your camera when you hike Drinking Horse Mountain ).

Where to stay: Designed to help you get the most out of southern Montana, The LARK is all about bringing old and new Bozeman together.

Cincinnati, Ohio

Beer lovers may flock to Asheville or Seattle, but Cincinnati is a treasure trove of brews. In fact, it’s home to more than 40 breweries with its very own beer trail: The Brewery Heritage Trail. Once you get your buzz going, make sure to save ample time for the Over-the-Rhine district, one of the largest, most in-tact urban historic districts in the U.S. Oh, and it’s got some really great food, too.

Where to stay: Right across the Ohio River is the waterfront  Hotel Covington . Sure, it’s technically in Covington, Kentucky, but its rates will make the short trek so worth it.

Charleston, South Carolina

With its waterfront promenades, iconic architecture and cobblestone streets, this seaport city is brimming with things to do over a long weekend—and much of it involves food. Make sure to make a fancy dinner reservation at FIG, Husk or the Charleston Grill. And no trip to Charleston would be complete without a visit to nearby Boone Hall Plantation—where countless movies have been filmed. And if you have extra time on your hands, island hop to Kiawah Island, where you’ll undoubtedly stumble upon your own private beach.

Where to stay:  Charleston is all about elegance. So do it up in style at the Belmond Charleston Place .

Your Guide to Charleston, South Carolina

Columbia, South Carolina

If Charleston is Marcia Brady, Columbia is Jan. But that’s fine by us. As Soda City experiences its urban revival, we’re fine keeping this best-kept secret to ourselves. With old gems like the Robert Mills House & Gardens and Lula Drake , a cozy, historic wine bar, this super-walkable, charming city feels like a small-town getaway within a big city.

Where to stay: The brand-new Aloft Columbia Downtown is walking distance to everything.

Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

One word: antiquing. From estate sales to flea markets and barn-inspired stores that would make Chip and Joanna Gaines ’ hearts flutter, a weekend in Litchfield means discovering hidden gems. Need a break from the dust? Take to the skies and get a bird’s-eye view of it all from a hot-air balloon .

Where to stay: The 18 luxury cottages at Winvian Farm each have their own unique spin—like a whimsical-chic tree house, a refurbished helicopter and a nautical lighthouse.

Louisville, Kentucky

Even if you don’t make it there for the famed Kentucky Derby, there’s so much do in Bourbon County, including, of course, the Urban Bourbon Trail , where you can spend a buzzy afternoon hopping between distilleries. Of course, there’s also baseball, bluegrass and mint juleps (c’mon, you have to have one here).

Where to stay: Art lovers: You must try the 21c Museum Hotel in downtown Louisville.

Nashville, Tennessee

From honky-tonk bars up and down Broadway to the Grand Ole Opry , there’s really no escaping live music when you’re in Nashville. If you want real-deal country, head to Robert’s Western World. Want to spot the next big thing? Make sure you get to the 90-person venue at Bluebird Café early. Bring home an epic keepsake from Hatch Show Print , the letterpress design shop known for its iconic posters.

Where to stay: For some straight-up Southern hospitality, The Hermitage is a must (they’ll even walk your dog for you).

Your Guide to Nashville, Tennessee

Palm Springs, California

Desert sunsets, mountain views and perfect weather—it’s no wonder this SoCal city has been an old Hollywood escape for years. Sip on a martini at Johannes and be transported back to the 1950s, take an architecture tour of the mid-century modern homes and, most importantly, enjoy the weather poolside.

Where to stay: The hotel scene in Palm Springs is legendary, and the Saguaro Hotel is a fresh take on a classic, replete with lots of bright color, a pool and mountain views.

Your Guide to a Long Weekend in Palm Springs

Petaluma, California

The sleepy town across the Golden Gate is a wonderful little reprieve from the hustle and bustle of SF. Book a walkabout in the olive tree fields at McEvoy Ranch (save time for an olive oil tasting!); eat duck confit cassoulet at The Drawing Board and follow it up with a cocktail at Barber Cellars , Petaluma’s first tasting room for small-production, single-vineyard wines. Mmm .  

Where to stay: The revamped Art Deco Hotel Petaluma , which dates back to 1924.

Petaluma’s the New Hot Spot (We Promise) and Here’s Where to Go

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philly may be stoked in history, but it’s currently booming, and no, we’re not just talking cheesesteaks or the Liberty Bell (although, hey, nothing wrong with either). The thriving food scene sates even the snootiest East Coast foodies. (OK, we’re looking at you, New Yorkers.) From classics like the tomato pie at Marchiano’s Bakery to newbies like Danlu, a smart-looking Taiwanese street food restaurant, there’s no shortage of interesting things to taste or do. Book your rezzies accordingly.

Where to stay:  Aloft Philadelphia Downtown blends the city’s rich history with contemporary vibes.

Portland, Oregon

The dream of the ’90s is alive in Portland! Well, at least according Fred Armisen and Carrie Brownstein. But it’s time you checked out this hipster paradise for yourself. Feast on craft coffee, cider, doughnuts and all the farm-to-table cuisine you can stand in line for (we kid, we kid). Beyond the city’s quirky culture, you’ll also have to make time to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest landscape.

Where to stay: Get the best of both worlds at the River’s Edge Hotel , right at the junction of downtown Portland and the tranquil Willamette Valley.

San Antonio, Texas

While all the bachelorette parties are heading to Austin, you should make way to this riverside city (even if all you recall about this Texas town from history class is “Remember the Alamo!”). Start with the River Walk . It may be touristy, but we’re suckers for the water taxis that let you hop between food, drink and shopping. There’s also the Pearl District , the 1881 brewery turned sprawling development that’s become a trendy hot spot with live music, farmers markets and so much more. And of course, nothing beats a picturesque picnic in Hill Country.

Where to stay: For rooftop pool and complimentary Electra cruiser bikes, you should most definitely stay at Hotel Emma .

Santa Fe, New Mexico

It’s the city where art meets nature. Hike amid the aspen trees (which turn a gorgeous orange come fall) and meander through the city’s countless galleries, sculpture gardens and artisan turquoise shops. If you’re a fan of George R.R. Martin, or the avant-garde, you must take time for Meow Wolf , the multilevel interactive art museum filled with VR, audio engineering and a strong dose of mystery.

Where to stay: For a historic and iconic getaway, try the Inn and Spa at Loretto .

Sonoma, California

Sure, there’s lots to do in this glorious West Coast region. But we all know why you’re here: wine. Sip your way through the city at tasting rooms like La Crema or the 140-year-old cellars at Simi . Make sure to make time for—drumroll, please—more wine at Sonoma-Cutrer Vineyards , where you can drink wine and play croquet on the courts.

Where to stay:  Want a bargain? This tiny house-style cottage is a Sonoma steal priced at $140 a night.

St. Petersburg-clearwater, Florida

Sure, everyone’s going to Miami, but if you’ve only got the weekend, why not try to beat the crowds? This Gulf Coast city has everything you could want in a Florida vacay: perfect weather, gorgeous beaches and some great indoor activities to keep you busy when you need a break from the sun— the Salvador Dali Museum or vintage shopping , anyone?

Where to stay: Go for classic at The Don CeSar , aka the "pink palace." 

100 Free Things to Do in American This Summer

Executive Editor, Frazzled Mom, Bravo-Holic

25 Amazing Summer Weekend Getaways In USA (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole

There are many wonderful summer destinations in the United States for a short holiday. Whether you are seeking somewhere on the east coast or west coast, or focusing on city breaks, beach vacations, or other outdoor adventures, you won’t be disappointed with the amazing opportunities in America for a quick summer trip. June, July, August and September offer some of the best weather of the year and ideal road conditions to reach your ultimate destination quickly whether you initially hop on a plane, or decide to take a road trip. Here are 25 of the best summer weekend getaways in the USA.

This post may contain affiliate links. That means that I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you buy something through my site. This helps me run my website and produce the articles that I hope you find helpful.

Other Destinations

Here are a few more summer destinations to consider in the USA for the indecisive!

If you would prefer summer beach destinations in USA, please review  21 Beautiful US Islands To Visit In Summer.

For those looking for fantastic destinations in US with cooler summer temperatures, check out  28 Best US Destinations To Escape The Sizzling Summer Heat .

If you are looking for an inexpensive summer vacation, please see 25 Best Cheap Places In USA For A Summer Holiday .

If you are looking for recommended spots for a particular summer month, please see:

• 21 Best Places To Visit In The USA In June ;
• 22 Best Places To Visit In The USA In July ; and
• 20 Best Places To Visit In The USA In August .

Best US Weekend Trips In Summer

Here are 25 of the best quick vacation getaways in summer in the United States. They are all within a 2 hours drive of a significant airport, although most are much more closer. For each destination, the best things to do are highlighted as well as what kind of summer weather you can expect in June, July, August and September.

Boulder, Colorado

By Amber from Amber Everywhere

Nestled at the edge of the Rocky Mountains is the small city of Boulder, Colorado, a perfect place to spend an adventurous weekend summer retreat in the US. Boulder attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, offering the chance to hike, rock climb, cycle, and even float down the Boulder Creek in an inner tube. 

Summertime is peak tourist season in Boulder, with plenty to do for independent travelers, couples, and families.

Don’t miss the Boulder Farmers Market that takes place every Saturday, where you can find local produce, food vendors, and other types of artisans. 

No visit to Boulder is complete without a stroll up and down Pearl Street, the central pedestrian mall in the city. Make sure to check out the Piece, Love and Chocolate and Liberty Puzzles. For a quick bite, try Mountain Sun, a local brewery with great burgers and hand painted murals in the dining room. 

You’ll also want to be sure to squeeze in at least a few hikes while you’re in Boulder. For an accessible starting hike, head to Chautauqua, the park at the base of the Flatirons, and roam the wide open trails.

The more moderate trail to Royal Arch is perfect for anyone with some hiking experience who’d like to stay close to Boulder. As the name suggests, the top of Royal Arch is a rock formation that overlooks the city of Boulder and the Colorado Plains.  

If you have time, or if you’d prefer something a bit more adventurous, try the Fourth of July Trail, which features alpine vistas in the Rocky Mountains. You’ll need to drive to the trailhead, and you’ll want to set off early because it’s important to summit before any afternoon thunderstorms may set in. 

Colorado has characteristically dry summer weather, with daytime highs in the high 80s/low 90s. At night, the temperature tends to drop into the 50s F.

Rainy days are uncommon (expect 4-6 days per month in the summer), but you may see summertime showers in the early afternoon. These bursts of rain are usually short lived, but can be dangerous if you’re hiking above tree line. 

Best Way To Reach Destination

Boulder is an easy 45 minute drive from Denver International Airport, or you can take the bus if you’d prefer.

Accommodation

Amber says, “Choose a hotel near Pearl Street , the home of most of the action in Boulder. The Hotel Boulderado is always a great hotel option in Boulder. Its’ historical charm and central location make it perfect for a weekend trip.”

Malibu, California

By Catrina from 24 Hours Layover

Located along the Pacific Coast Highway in California, Malibu is a lovely coastal city on the west coast of the USA and makes for the ideal weekend getaway in summer. There are many things to do in Malibu, and with the beach and mountains so close, it has the best of both worlds and something for everyone.

Head up to The Malibu Hills for fantastic hikes and glorious views overlooking the city, ocean and mountains. When you’re ready to relax, hit up a vineyard or visit one of the many beautiful beaches.

Malibu has some of the best beaches in California, including Zuma Beach and El Matador Beach – a small and secluded beach known for its stunning rock formations. For a lesser known spot, head to the Leo Carrillo Sea Cave, one of the  best photo spots in Malibu .

Visit Malibu Lagoon Beach and Malibu Pier at sunset – you definitely don’t want to miss that. All of the beaches in Malibu are great for surfing and swimming too.

If it’s mountain views you’re after, set off for the Malibu Hills and visit Malibu Creek State Park. Go for a swim in the rock pools and check out the stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains. Nearby Malibu Lake and Solstice Canyon are also a must visit and the views are spectacular.

Afterwards go for a wine tasting session at one of the vineyards. Malibu is home to several wineries that offer tastings, with Malibu Family Wines being a popular one.

Malibu is also home to several summer festivals such as the Malibu Fine Arts Festival and the Malibu Annual Summer Block Party. This is a free event with DJs, face painting and caricature drawing which would be fun for the whole family.

The weather in Malibu is perfect in the summer, with average highs of 75°F (but consistent ocean breezes so it never feels too hot) and no rain. It is almost guaranteed great weather!

Malibu is located 30 miles (48km) west of Los Angeles and is incredibly convenient to get to. Fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and drive to Malibu from LAX (which should take just under an hour and is the most convenient way), or take 2 buses (which will take under 2 hours).

Catrina says, “For accommodation, stay in Malibu Beach Inn . Located right on the ocean strip nicknamed ‘Billionaires Beach’ next to Malibu Pier, this is a wonderful place to spend a summer getaway.”

Boston, Massachusetts

By Ella from Many More Maps

If you’re looking to spend a summer long weekend on the east coast of the USA checking out some of the country’s best historical attractions, look no further than Boston .

The city of Boston, Massachusetts is the perfect destination for a summer city break. In summer, the dreary weather the city is famous for is long gone, and you’ll instead get to enjoy long, sunny days. That means more time for sightseeing, and relaxing in Boston Common, the city’s prettiest park.

Obviously, though, you aren’t going to visit Boston just to sit in the park. Instead, kick off your weekend Boston itinerary by walking the Freedom Trail. This 2.5 mile walking route takes you to the city’s most important historical landmarks, including Paul Revere’s House, the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Monument. 

As well as the historical attractions, there are plenty of foodie attractions in Boston. From lobster rolls at the world-famous Quincy Market to heaping plates of pasta in Boston’s North End, a weekend getaway in Boston is all about sampling as much of the city’s wonderful cuisine as you can.

Temperatures in Boston in summer reach average highs of 82°F and average lows of 59°F with around 7 days of rain per month.

Boston has its own airport, Boston Logan International. It’s easy to reach the city centre by taking the airport’s free shuttle bus to the airport’s very own subway station. From there, catch the Blue Line into the city. 

Ella says, “The best place to stay in Boston is Moxy Boston Downtown , which has a perfect location within walking distance to all of the city’s main attractions. If you’re a budget traveller, check out the top-rated HI Boston Hostel near Boston Common.”

Seattle, Washington

By Elaina from Mind Over Matter Travel

Seattle is one of the best city getaways in summer on the west coast of America. With its mild climate, stunning natural beauty, and plethora of activities, it’s no wonder people flock to this city in the warmer months. Comfortable weather gives the perfect opportunity to explore Seattle’s cityscape along with the water and mountains that surround it. 

Whether it’s taking a walk along the waterfront, checking out the city’s renowned music and art scene, or relaxing in one of Seattle’s many parks, there’s something for everyone in the city. Whatever you do, don’t miss out on three of the city’s most famous attractions.

Firstly, the Space Needle is the major icon of Seattle and offers the best views of the city from its observation deck. 

Secondly, the Museum of Pop Culture is home to the world’s most immersive pop culture experiences and ranks as one of the best places to visit in Washington .

Lastly, Pike Place Market is considered by many to be the soul of Seattle and is the city’s largest market of small, independent businesses. You can lose yourself for hours in the stalls looking at beautiful handicrafts or eating delicious cuisine locally sourced.

In addition to the city attractions, visitors will likely encounter exciting events like outdoor concerts or festivals in the summer months. If you time your trip right, you may even catch one of Seattle’s famous events like the Capitol Hill Block Party, PrideFest, and Seafair!

Summer offers relief from Seattle’s typical cold, rainy weather. Instead, summer temperatures average between 57 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit, and it only rains a few days per month.

Home to one of the west coast’s best connected international airports, Seattle is easily accessible from many cities across the U.S. The airport is also well-situated so visitors travel less than twenty minutes by car to major city attractions. 

Elaina says, “For visitors wanting to explore the major sights of Seattle, the two best areas to stay are Downtown Seattle (near Pike Place Market and the waterfront) or Lower Queen Anne (near the Space Needle and Museum of Pop Culture). Either neighborhood will give several accommodation options ranging from the Holiday Inn to the Four Seasons .”

Chincoteague, Virginia

By Megan from Virginia Travel Tips

Chincoteague Island is a perfect summer getaway: peaceful, relaxing, and fun. Located on the coast of Virginia close to the Maryland border,  Chincoteague  feels far away when you’re there, but is easily accessible to a number of airports.

Gorgeous beaches and acres of wildlife refuges invite one to relax, stroll, and enjoy the slow life. There are tons of trails that circle the island giving you ample room to hike and bike. If you don’t have a bike, you can rent one in town for your stay.

Check out the stunning white and red Assateague Lighthouse, which has great views from the top. Make sure to spend some time at the beautiful beach, relaxing in the sand, splashing in the water, and enjoying gorgeous sunrises and sunsets .

Lastly, don’t miss out on the opportunity to kayak around the island. You’ll get a chance to spot what Chincoteague is most famous for – its ponies! Wild ponies wander the islands of Chincoteague and Assateague, and you can see them on a boat or kayak tour.

If you’re there in late July, don’t miss the Chincoteague Pony Swim. This event, held on the last Wednesday in July, sees the ponies swim the Assateague Channel, and has exciting festivities all week long.

Summer temperatures on Chincoteague are pleasantly in the mid-80s for highs and high 60s for lows. However, be prepared for it to be muggy.

To get to Chincoteague Island, you’ll need to fly into an airport, rent a car, and drive. The closest airport is Salisbury, Maryland about 30 miles away and Norfolk International Airport is 100 miles. Bigger airports within a few hours’ drive include Washington Reagan and Baltimore.

Megan says, “There are lots of hotels, B&Bs, and rental cabins on Chincoteague, but camping is also a popular accommodation choice. Several campgrounds border the beach, so you can wake up to the ponies and a beautiful sunrise.”

Chicago, Illnois

By Chelsea from Adventures Of Chels

Located in Midwest, USA is the  sometimes overlooked gem of beautiful Chicago . With its bustling downtown, world renowned architecture, superb museums, numerous sports teams, and great weather, the Windy City makes for one of the best city escapes on a summer weekend getaway.

Head to a Cubs baseball game even if you have never watched a game in your life. The Cubs can not be called “the lovable losers” no more when they won the World Series in 2016. Go to a game at iconic Wrigley Field and see them in action. Win or lose, experiencing a baseball game at the second oldest ballpark in America is well worth it.

Take an Architecture boat tour. Of all the tourist activities Chicago has to offer, this architectural tour might just be the favorite of Chicagoans. Opt for the “River and Lake Tour” and enjoy your time relaxing on the boat as you check out views of the city. Your guide will tell you everything you need to know about Chicago’s history and architecture.

Chicago has numerous world class museums that are worth visiting. A few of the most popular include the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and the ever exciting interactive Museum of Science and industry. In addition, the Art Institute of Chicago has impressive masters’ collections that would make any European gallery jealous.

If you’d like to time your visit around a popular festival or event in Chicago, note that the Taste of Chicago is typically scheduled in July and Lollapalooza is typically scheduled in August.

The Taste of Chicago is a large outdoor event where restaurants from all over the city set up tents in designated areas and give samples of their menu items. Lollapalooza is a crazy outdoor music festival featuring numerous well known and up and coming artists on various stages all day and evening long.

Summer temperatures range from 72 ° F  –  84 °  F with about 3.3″ of rain per month. You can expect around half of July and August to be humid, but only a few muggy days in each of June and September.

As for logistics, the airports in Chicago are O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW). Both are connected to public transportation. Getting to downtown Chicago from either airport takes about 45 minutes to an hour. 

Chelsea says, “For a competitively priced hotel in a great location, consider staying at  Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop – Theatre District . It’s easily accessible to public transportation and the best place from which to explore Chicago.”

Park City, Utah

By Nausheen from Globe Gazers

Although it’s generally known as a ski town, Park City, Utah is also the perfect destination for a summer weekend getaway. Summertime in Park City means pleasant weather, stunning mountain views set against clear blue skies and plenty of outdoor activities.

Some amazing activities to enjoy in Park City, Utah in summer include exploring the Park Silly Sunday Market. This outdoor market only takes place during the summer. Food stalls and shops line historic Main Street and there’s often live music to accompany the buzz. In addition to exploring the market itself, take some time to pop into the various boutique shops and cafes all along this charming street.

Spend a day at Adventure Park on the Alpine Coaster, Ziplining and more. It’s the perfect way to let loose and enjoy the fun atmosphere of an amusement park without feeling too overwhelmed.

Participate in Savor the Summit. One big perk of visiting Park City in the summer is having the opportunity to join the city’s large, outdoor dinner party.

Savor the Summit is an incredible experience, where restaurants set up picnic tables side by side along Main Street in downtown. You can make reservations for the event at the restaurant of your choice, and join other attendees for one big outdoor dinner party. Park City has quite the foodie scene, so this event is a great way to get a taste of the city while meeting people from all over the world. 

Summer temperatures in Park City range from 45 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening on the low end, up to the 80s F on the high end. It will only rain a couple days each month and there won’t be any humidity.

Getting to Park City, Utah is quite convenient. The closest airport is Salt Lake City International Airport. From there, you can take a shuttle or an Uber and arrive in Park City in approximately half an hour. 

Kansas City, Missouri

By Vicky from Buddy The Traveling Monkey

One of the best cities for a quick summer trip in the USA is Kansas City, Missouri. Kansas City is a great destination because it’s a big city with a lot of attractions but still has a small-town feel.

If you want to spend time outdoors, visit the Kansas City Zoo. It has won multiple awards for its exhibits and has been ranked one of the top zoos in the US. At over 200 acres, the zoo has hundreds of animals.

Country Club Plaza is another great place to enjoy some fresh air. It’s right next to the river, where there are walking paths and bridges to go back and forth. If you’d like to do some shopping or snacking, there are plenty of stores and restaurants too.

Kansas City also has many museums, a lot of which are free. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has modern art, photography, and sculptures. The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures has over 51,000 toys in its collection.

Finally, the National WW1 Museum and Memorial is the only museum in the USA dedicated solely to the Great War. If you can, return to the National WW1 Museum at night. You can get some great views of Kansas City from the top of the hill.

There are also a lot of  unique places to eat in Kansas City . Barbecue lovers should head to Q39. It’s considered one of the top restaurants in Kansas City.

Coffee lovers should visit Messenger Coffee Company. This multi-floor space serves quality coffee and pastries, all made in front of customers. You can even see the staff roasting the coffee in huge machines!

The weather is nice. Average rainfall is around 4″ each month. Average highs are in the upper 80s Fahrenheit and lows are in the mid 60s F. June through August sees a fair bit of humidity.

Kansas City International Airport is just 15 miles northwest of Downtown Kansas City.

Vicky says, “Consider staying at the Hampton Inn & Suites Country Club Plaza for your weekend getaway. It’s close to many attractions and restaurants. It also has an indoor pool, gym, and free breakfast.”

Mystic, Connecticut

By Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

The beautiful coastal New England city of Mystic, Connecticut, is one of the best US east coast weekend getaways in summer. Located on the Mystic River and Long Island Sound, Mystic offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its quaint shops, historic sites, and stunning harbor views, Mystic is an ideal destination for a short vacation.

Whether you can only spend  one day in Mystic  or a whole long weekend, the first stop on your adventure should be the Mystic Seaport Museum. This living museum is a great way to learn about the history of Mystic and its maritime past. The museum features interactive exhibits, historic ships, and a variety of educational programs. 

Next, head to Olde Mistick Village for some shopping and dining. This outdoor shopping center is home to various unique stores and restaurants. From antiques to clothing, you’ll find something for everyone. After shopping, take a break at one of the many cafes or restaurants in the village.

Across the street from the colonial-inspired shopping center, you’ll find the Mystic Aquarium. This world-class aquarium features a variety of exhibits where visitors can also explore the touch tanks and interactive displays. The aquarium also offers educational programs and activities for children and adults.

For those looking for some outdoor fun, Mystic has plenty to offer. Spend an afternoon kayaking or paddle boarding on the Mystic River or take a boat tour of the harbor.

If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike along the nearby trails or enjoy one of the local beaches and explore the area’s natural beauty.

Mystic offers lovely summer weather most days. Average highs range from 74 °F to 78 °F with around 3″ of rain each month and some humidity.

Mystic is each to reach, as it’s just under a 2-hour drive from Boston’s Logan International Airport.

Lyndsay says, “Mystic has several cute historic hotels and bed and breakfasts in its downtown.”

Napa Valley, California

By Anu from Destination Checkoff

Napa Valley is a world-famous wine country destination in Northern California known for its vineyards, wineries, and small-town charm.  

Summer is a great time for this west coast quick getaway with pleasant temperatures and longer daylight hours allowing for more exploration.

In summer, there are several concerts held in downtown Napa. If you are visiting in July, don’t miss the ‘Festival Napa Valley’, a 10-day music and dance festival. 

The most popular thing to do in Napa Valley is to visit the many wineries and vineyards. Take a tour of Castillo di Amorosa, a great castle-like winery surrounded by picturesque vineyards.

Summer is a also great time to visit downtown Napa and dine at the many restaurants, explore the tasting rooms or just stroll through the vibrant streets. 

Taking a hot air balloon ride over the rolling hills and landscape of Napa is a popular summer activity in Napa. In addition, riding on the Napa Valley Wine Train is a wonderful way to enjoy the countryside views while sipping some delicious wine varieties. 

The average temperature in the summer months is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 55 degrees Fahrenheit during the night. There is basically no rain or humidity.

Napa Valley is only an hour’s drive from San Francisco International airport, making it one of the best  weekend getaways from San Francisco . You can rent a car from San Francisco airport or book an airport transfer. 

Anu says, “Calistoga Spa Hot Springs is a great place to stay and relax in their natural hot springs pool and rejuvenate with some spa time.

New York City, New York

By Melissa from My Beautiful Passport

One of the best places in the US for a summer long weekend is classic New York City . With warmer temperatures, longer days, and plenty of concerts and festivals, NYC makes a great quick city break.

One of the best things to do on a summer morning in NYC is to visit Brooklyn. Unlike the cold of winter, it will be much more pleasant to wander outside exploring this picturesque area.

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, visit the neighbourhood of DUMBO, take photos of the NYC skyline from Pebble Beach, and eat at Time Out Market. 

Nothing beats visiting Central Park in summer when ponds aren’t frozen, the trees are lively, and all around, people are out enjoying a beautiful day. Walk through Central Park and either pack a picnic or dine at one of the famous New York Hotdog carts.

Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art to see the largest collection of art in the US. With everyone outside enjoying the sunshine, the museum will be less busy and easier to visit, especially in the morning. 

And if that isn’t enough to do, check out one of the many summer events in the city. From jazz to dance to food and film festivals, you will find it here in the city that never sleeps. Noteworthy summer events include the Bryant Park Film Festival and the Governors Park Music Festival.

If you are looking for helpful travel tips to make your trip to New York City less expensive, easier and safer, please see  50 Best New York City Tips For First Time Visitors .

Summers in NYC are hot and humid, with daytime temperatures averaging in the low to mid-80s. There is some rain on an average of 7 days through each summer month, making for plenty of sunny days.

To reach New York City, you have a few different airports, including John F Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA), and Newark (EWR). Any of these airports will work for your short summer holiday and are one hour by public transport to the island of Manhattan by bus or metro.

Melissa says, “Plan to stay in the Midtown neighbourhood to be close to the best of what New York City has to offer. Drop off your luggage and get ready to explore.

Outer Banks, North California

By Pamela from The Directionally Challenged Traveler

One of the best weekend getaways on a beach in summer on the east coast of the United States is the breathtaking Outer Banks, North Carolina. It features a bit of history, plenty of outdoor activities, and miles of beautiful beaches.

The Outer Banks is over 100 miles long so you won’t be able to see everything in only a few days. There are plenty of  things to do in Corolla  at the north end of the islands that give you a taste of everything the islands have to offer. Explore Historic Corolla Park and learn about the history and culture of the Outer Banks.

Get a bird’s eye view at the top of Currituck Beach Lighthouse. Learn about the area’s relationship with the water over the years at the new Maritime Museum. In the evening, visit the shops at Tim Buck II for a delicious meal, ice cream, and souvenir shopping.

Nature lovers can see the famous wild ponies that may be playing in the water in the warm summer months. The beaches in Corolla are less crowded than other areas as well, giving you plenty of space to spread out. If you prefer to be on the water, you can take a jet ski tour of the area, go kayaking or fishing, or even parasailing!

With an average temperature of the mid-80s throughout summer, with around 3″ of rain each month. It’s often humid so it offers a tropical beach experience.

Most people get to the Outer Banks by flying into Norfolk International Airport. It’s a scenic 90-minute drive down the coast to the barrier islands. 

Pamela says, “The Inn at Corolla is a beachfront hotel that makes it easy to explore the area.”

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

By Lisa from Waves and Cobblestones

Milwaukee is located in the southeastern portion of Wisconsin, right on the shore of Lake Michigan. It features amazing architecture, great museums, and the natural beauty of the lake and the rivers crisscrossing the city.

Spend some time exploring downtown Milwaukee on your quick summer holiday in the USA. Old World 3 rd  Street reflects Milwaukee’s Germanic heritage with half-timbered buildings. It’s a great place to enjoy local favorites like brats, fried cheese curds, and a local beer. 

Then, take a stroll along the Riverwalk, one of  Milwaukee’s top attractions , and enjoy seeing the public artworks including the life-sized ‘Bronz Fonz’.

Milwaukee is home to many excellent museums. The Milwaukee Art Museum boasts a collection of over 32,000 artworks including art by Georgia O’Keeffe. You should definitely visit the museum, if only to admire its unique architecture and the Burke Brise Soleil ‘wings’ which are able to open and close. 

Other unique Milwaukee museums include the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum and the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, the world’s largest collection of bobbleheads.

The best reason to visit Milwaukee in summertime is to attend Summerfest. Summerfest is the largest music festival in the world, and it’s held annually in Milwaukee over the course of three weekends at the end of June and early July. Hundreds of bands and musical acts of all musical genres perform during the course of Summerfest.

Summertime high temperatures are in the 70s, with lows in the upper 50s to mid-60s. Summer months generally have 7-10 days of rain, so pack a light jacket and you’ll be prepared for whatever Mother Nature brings.

Visitors arrive in Milwaukee via the General Mitchell International Airport. The airport is only 10 miles from downtown Milwaukee, so it’s less than a 20-minute drive (or under an hour, if you want to take public transportation).

Lisa says, “Plan to stay at the Plaza Hotel . It’s centrally located between Lake Michigan and the downtown Riverwalk. It is an easy walk to many of Milwaukee’s top attractions. Plus, the rooms feature fully equipped kitchens.”

Point Reyes National Seashore, California

By Patricia from Ze Wandering Frogs

Point Reyes National Seashore is located about one hour north of San Francisco and makes for a fantastic west coast beach destination for a weekend vacation in the US. The Park, part of the US National Park Service, is known for its stunning and long Pacific Ocean coastline. Indeed, the three main seashores form a 10-mile-long stretch, including Great Beach, South Beach, and North Beach.

With 150 miles of trails, one of the  top activities in Point Reyes  is hiking. There are trails for all fitness levels, from the short 0.6-mile Earthquake Trail along the San Andreas Fault Zone to the 10-mile Tomales Point Trail through the Tule Elk Reserve, where you can admire the stunning Tule Elk in their natural habitat.

Kayaking is another great thing to do in Point Reyes, with three main locations. You can kayak in the calm Tomales Bay, Drakes Estero / Estero de Limantour, and the challenging Pacific Ocean.

Visiting the 1870 Point Reyes Lighthouse is perfect for excellent views of the whole park and beautiful sunsets.

Summer days can be foggy, but the afternoon temperatures make it perfect for exploring the Park. Temperatures in summer range from 54°F to 80°F, usually with little rain.

There are two international airports within easy driving distance to Point Reyes National Seashore. The drive from San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport takes about one hour and a half. Renting a car is the best option as public transportation to Point Reyes Station is limited.

Patricia says, “Accommodation within the Park is scarce, but hike-in or boat-in backcountry campsites are available with a permit.

Staying at the youth hostel on Limantour Spit Road is also possible. Other lodgings, such as cottages and bungalows, exist outside the park.”

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

By Alyssa from An Apple a Plane

Shenandoah National Park is located on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Northern Virginia. It is a perfect summer east coast weekend trip in America due to its close proximity to two international airports, scenic views, and treasured hiking adventures for all ages.  

Drive from the airport to Skyline Drive. This is the one narrow, winding, road that leads you through the entire National Park. The entire scenic drive is an experience in and of itself and one that you should leave enough time for stops at the beautiful outlooks. Most hiking trails are also accessed from this road.

Old Rag is the most popular and iconic hike at the park. Visitors tend to begin the hike early in order to have ample time to complete it. 

Permits are now required to hike this trail in order to protect the environment. You can purchase them online in advance through the National Park Service. Be sure to plan accordingly as limited passes are available per day.  

Other popular hikes include Mary’s Rock and Limberlost.  

Temperatures range from an average high of 87 Degrees F and to an evening low of 56 degrees F. There is around 3″ of rain each summer month with about 10-15 days of humidity each month.

Most visitors fly into Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Washington, DC . Both airports are less than a two hour drive to Shenandoah National Park. You should rent a car because it is quick and provides the most flexibility.

Alyssa says, “Summer, without a doubt, is high season at Shenandoah National Park so be sure to make advance reservations. Consider a cozy, rustic stay at Lewis Mountain Cabins or Big Meadow Lodge both located off Skyline Drive.”

Cannon Beach, Oregon

By Jessica from The Uprooted Traveler

Cannon Beach, a charming coastal town located along the northern Oregon Coast, perfectly combines adventure and relaxation for your next short summer trip on the west coast of the United States.

Despite its small size, there’s tons of things to do in Cannon Beach . For example, on the beach itself, you can watch for tufted puffins on its famed sea stack, Haystack Rock or explore colorful sea life in its tide pools. In the evening, you can have a campfire, right in the sand.

For a real showstopper, try to schedule your visit to the beach at sunset. You get to watch as the sun sinks beneath the Pacific Ocean and turns the sky jaw-dropping colors. 

There’s also plenty of incredible parks nearby, with endless hiking trails to be explored. For example, the nearby Ecola State Park has trails leading through coastal forests to secluded beaches. Oswald West State Park has hikes that overlook Short Sands Beach, renowned as one of the best beaches in the state for surfing.

Finally, be sure to carve out time to stroll around the charming downtown, with coastal cottages that house ice cream parlors, eclectic boutiques, and old-fashioned candy shops.

Cannon Beach is always bustling in the summertime, but one of the best times to visit is during its quirky Sandcastle Contest in early June. Closing in on its sixth decade, this annual contest brings together amateur and professional artists alike. They create beautiful pieces of art out of the sand and other materials found along the beach. 

While Cannon Beach is lovely in the summer, it’s unlikely you’ll really run into bikini weather, even then. Daily highs are typically in the high 60s, with a handful of rainy days scattered throughout the summer months. So be sure to pack along some warm layers, especially to wear at night and in the early mornings.

To get to Cannon Beach, fly into Portland and make the hour and 40 minute drive northwest to the city. While it’s possible to get to Cannon Beach by public transit, your best bet will be renting a car, given that the town’s attractions are spread out along the coastline.

Jessica says, “If you want to be close to the action, book your stay at the Hallmark Resort and Spa . There’s plenty of perks, like fresh-baked cookies at check-in and complimentary beach-cruiser rentals. In addition, it directly overlooks (and is actually the closest hotel to!) the iconic Haystack Rock.”

Washington, District of Columbia

By Stephanie from The Unknown Enthusiast

Washington, DC is a great US destination for a short summer getaway. There is so much to see and do, and many things within walking distance of each other.

Located between Virginia and Maryland, Washington DC boasts world class museums, beautifully constructed memorials and monuments, tours of interesting government and historical buildings, some beautiful green spaces, great architecture, trendy neighborhoods to explore, and delicious restaurants for foodies to enjoy.

During your quick summer vacation, you should visit a few of the museums in Washington DC . Don’t miss the Spy Museum (one of the most fascinating museums you will ever see), the Air and Space Museum, or the Museum of Natural History. Also, stop by at the National Archives to see the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. 

Of course, you must walk the mall in Washington DC! Admire all the monuments and memorials along this large green park, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument.

Plan to stop by the Washington Monument first thing in the morning to get tickets to take the elevator to the top where the views over the city are incredible.

Touring some of the government buildings is a super interesting thing to do for American citizens. Tours of the Capitol are closed on weekends, but contact your representatives ahead of time if you want to get a tour of the White House. 

Summer in DC sees a ton of festivals! Don’t miss the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, which celebrates international cultures, the DCBX – a Latin dance festival, the DC JazzFest, and for sure fireworks on the mall on the 4th of July. 

Weather in summer in Washington is hot and humid, with average highs in the upper 80’s. There is around 3″ of rain each month and lots of humidity in July.

Dulles International Airport is a 35 minute drive from downtown DC, and Ronald Reagan International Airport is just 12 minutes away. You can take the metro from Ronald Reagan, but a car or Uber will be faster. 

Stephanie says, “The JW Marriott is a great hotel that’s close to everything in Washington DC.”

Portland, Maine

By Pafoua from Her Wanderful World

For a short summer holiday to quaint US towns with picturesque coastline views, cobblestone streets, and delicious seafood, look no further than a weekend in Portland, Maine .

One of the most popular draws to Portland is the Old Port area. Visitors can explore cobblestone streets, old brick buildings, and a vibrant waterfront filled with boats and ferries. Old Port is also the place to go for New England souvenirs with many local boutique shops lining the streets.

Old Port also boasts dozens of restaurants and cafes. There are classic Maine dishes like lobster rolls at the Portland Lobster Company. If you prefer more eclectic finds such as potato-based donuts at the Holy Donut, Portland is filled with many delicious choices.

Spend an afternoon hanging out at Portland Head Light which is the oldest lighthouse in Maine and the most photographed in the United States. Here visitors can take pictures of the lighthouse, explore its history, and enjoy a scenic walk along the coastline.

There’s no better way to top off an east coast weekend holiday in Portland, Maine than to take part in the city’s burgeoning craft beer scene. Tour some of the local breweries such as Allagash Brewing Company or Liquid Riot Bottling Company for a unique and delicious experience.

One of the best summer events in Portland happens on the first weekend of June called the Summer Kickoff Event where the city celebrates the start of summer. From Friday to Sunday, there are various things to do from dancing in Monument Square to appreciating the arts.

Portland offers so much to explore in just a weekend, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a quick getaway. From its pretty coastline views to its historic past, Portland is sure to leave any traveler with unforgettable memories.

Average highs range from 69 °F to 78 °F with around 3″ of rain each month. There is very little humidity.

To reach Portland, Maine, fly into Portland International Jetport and rent a car to drive about 20 minutes to the Old Port center.

Pafoua says, “Be sure to book your accommodations near Old Port for the most ideal stay. One of the best places to consider is Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront.”

San Franciso, California

By Gabriel from Chef Travel Guide

San Francisco is the perfect summer destination for a fun-filled weekend holiday on the west coast of the USA.

The city is jam-packed with entertainment ranging from stunning city views from Twin Peaks to deeply rooted culture in places like Chinatown.

Any trip to San Francisco is incomplete without taking in the views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge from Fort Point or taking a walk across its expanse.

Take a moment to taste the best of San Francisco with a visit to the Ferry Building for delicious treats ranging from Hog Island Oysters to the famous Humphry Slocombe Ice Cream.

Another highlight for visitors is a trip to Little Italy in North Beach, where you can visit the Coit Tower, and follow it up with an espresso and tiramisu at the legendary Stella Bakery.

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city with a visit to Golden Gate Park where you can relax at the Japanese Tea Garden or explore the California Academy of Sciences. 

Alternatively, go on a day trip to wine country . The Napa and Sonoma wine regions are both just a short drive across the Golden Gate Bridge and offer some of the highest rated wines in the world.

San Francisco offers a perfect reprieve from the oppressive heat that plagues most of the United States during the summer months. There is plenty of fog and chilly bay breezes. Daily temperatures average a high of 72°F with evening lows in the high 50s F. 

There is practically no rain or humidity.

Getting to San Francisco is easy, with both San Francisco (SFO) and Oakland (OAK) airports offering direct connections to the heart of the city via the BART train in under 45 minutes.

Gabriel says, “The city’s skyline is majestic. The best way to take in the views is from a room at the Four Season Hotel at the Embarcadero .”

Breckenridge, Colorado

By Jordan from The Homebody Tourist

Although most people think of Breckinridge as the perfect ski destination, it should not be overlooked for an outdoor adventure summer getaway in the United States.

After arriving in this quaint little town, you will immediately fall in love with its mountain-town vibes, cute shops, and epic views.

Start your weekend with a morning hike to the old cabin ruins along Mayflower Gulch Trail. It’s a pretty easy 2-mile hike for some amazing views.

After your hike, you can rent a paddleboard in town and head towards Maggie Pond to check out the views from the water.

Once you are exhausted from your daytime activities, spend the evening strolling Main Street and grabbing a bite to eat. 

For the remainder of your weekend, you can spend it at Epic Discovery (ropes course, alpine slide, rock climbing), or check out more of the area’s hikes. If you are looking for more epic hikes, you can head into Frisco and check out Mount Royal or stay right in Breck and take on McCullough Gulch.

Make sure you don’t end your weekend without stopping by and saying hello to the famous Breckenridge Troll, Isaak! He’s located downtown along a very short paved trail. 

The summer temperatures usually fall between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. There is only a little rain which is ideal for outdoor adventures. However, make sure you pack layers and a rain jacket. 

At just under 2 hours from the Denver International airport, Breckenridge is the perfect holiday weekend trip. 

Baltimore, Maryland

By Lola from Deyewa

Baltimore, Maryland is a vibrant city full of culture and history, making it the perfect city break for a weekend getaway in summer on the east coast of the USA. From its iconic Inner Harbor to its unique neighborhoods and exciting attractions, Baltimore offers something for everyone.

There are three top things to do when you come to Baltimore. Firstly, make a stop at the Baltimore National Aquarium which is home to thousands of aquatic animals from all around the world. From mesmerizing jellyfish and vibrant coral reefs to playful dolphins and majestic sea turtles, you can experience the wonders of the underwater world without ever getting wet!

The aquarium also features interactive exhibits and educational programs that will leave visitors with a greater appreciation for our oceans and their inhabitants.

Secondly, explore Maryland Science Center, a must-visit for anyone that loves to explore the fascinating world of science. From interactive exhibits that teach about astronomy and physics to live demonstrations of chemistry experiments, this center promises an immersive experience full of learning opportunities.

Not only does the Maryland Science Center offer educational programs for all ages, it also has the largest planetarium dome in Maryland that allows visitors to take in stunning views of the night sky. 

Lastly, if you are having a summer weekend getaway with kids, you have to stop at the Port Discovery Children’s Museum for an unforgettable experience. Home to more than 60,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, the museum provides a fun, hands-on way to explore science, technology, engineering, art, and math. Kids can climb aboard a pirate ship, navigate a dinosaur fossil dig, travel back in time to 1920’s ancient Egypt, enjoy some climbing and heights in The Overlook and much more.

If you can time your visit, every fourth of July, the Inner Harbor holds an annual fireworks and offers lots of free performances, kids activities, food trucks and more to make summer time a great experience.

The average summer temperature in Baltimore, Maryland is 72.9°F (22.7°C). July is the hottest month with an average high of 85°F (29.4°C) and an average low of 69.8°F (21°C).

The best way to reach Baltimore is by booking a flight to arrive at the Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and then driving 20-30 minutes to the Inner Harbor.

Lola says, “One nice hotel is the Sagamore Pendry Baltimore . It is close to a lot of the sights, sounds and tastes of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.”

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

By Kate from Yes, Massachusetts!

Martha’s Vineyard is the ultimate beach weekend break in the summer on the eastern coast of the United States. This little island off the coast of Cape Cod is home to beautiful sandy beaches, candy-colored gingerbread houses, stunning cliffs, delightful small towns, and lovely rolling farmland between it all.

The best way to spend an evening in Martha’s Vineyard is to head to the Aquinnah Cliffs for golden hour, just before sunset. These cliffs are many colors of orange, red, and yellow under normal circumstances, but in the golden light they’re magnificent! Nearby you can visit the Gay Head Light, one of the most unique  Martha’s Vineyard lighthouses  thanks to its red brick exterior.

Finish your evening at nearby Menemsha Beach, where Vineyard visitors gather to watch the sun sink into the sea.

Another great place to visit on the Vineyard is Chappaquiddick Island. You can take the tiny, three-vehicle “Chappy Ferry” on a one-minute journey to the island, then enjoy the Mytoi Japanese Gardens and the beach at Wasque Point. Be sure to bring lunch — there are no restaurants here.

As for summer festivals, Beach Road Weekend is the big music festival on Martha’s Vineyard, taking place in late August in the town of Vineyard Haven.

In summer, you can expect hot days perfect for beach-hopping and evenings cooled by the ocean breeze. It doesn’t get quite as hot as sweltering inland parts of New England.

You can expect high temperatures of 76-79 F, occasionally crawling into the 80s, with temperatures closer to 60-65 F at night.

There will be around 2.5″ of rain each summer month. It’s always smart to bring a light jacket with you.

Martha’s Vineyard has its own airport with direct flights from cities including Boston, New York, Washington, Philadelphia, and Chicago. You can also take the ferry from Woods Hole on Cape Cod, which takes less than an hour.

Kate says, “ Nobnocket Boutique Inn is a fabulous bed and breakfast in Vineyard Haven, a design piece in the middle of the island’s most local town. While the rooms are fabulously comfortable, the creative breakfasts are what you’ll remember forever.”

Asheville, North Carolina

By Alanna from Periodic Adventures

Asheville, North Carolina  is the perfect hidden gem in the Southern USA for a few days away in summer if you love nature, great food, craft breweries, and a little history.

In summertime, Asheville is brimming with activity. Each Friday, there is a local drum circle in Pritchard Park that’s free to attend. It’s a great introduction to this wonderfully weird city.

The best thing to do in Asheville is visit the Biltmore Estate, the largest home in America. It was owned by the Vanderbilts and is an all-day affair.

Tour the home with an audio guide, stroll the gardens and conservatory, enjoy a free wine tasting, visit the shops, and take a step back in time with farm and craft demonstrations.

Asheville is also the start of the Blue Ridge Parkway, an incredibly scenic drive that continues to Virginia. In the summer, there’s great hiking and overlooks on this drive to appreciate the stunning mountains.

Finally, Asheville is home to over 70+ local breweries so be sure to try a flight (or two). Some popular options include Hi-Wire, Wicked Weed, Green Man, and Eurisko. As an alternative to a beer flight, you can also try a pie flight at Baked Pie Company, perfect for those who prefer dessert!

While temperatures are warmest in the summer with averages in the mid-80s, there is around 9 days each month of rain (around 3.5″ each month) from June through August. There will also be lots of humidity in July and August.

This mountain town is located within a two-hour drive from the Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) in North Carolina.

Alanna says, “Many of the top restaurants and activities are located in downtown Asheville, so stay nearby at the Cambria Hotel Downtown or AC Hotel by Marriott.

San Diego, California

By Rasika from Bae Area And Beyond

San Diego is located in the southwestern point of California and the USA. Filled with beaches and many family-friendly activities, San Diego is one of the safest cities in the country. In addition, the city has something for everyone in the summer — from relaxing on the beach to hiking in the mountains and everything in between. It is a fantastic destination for a west coast weekend away in the USA.

With so many things to do, it can be hard to narrow down a list of must-dos. But here are some of the top things to do in San Diego.

First, visit SeaWorld San Diego. It is a popular theme park with 16 rides including 5 roller coasters and 2 water rides that are sure to entertain everyone in your family. It’s easy to spend the whole day here.

Second, see the Padres Play at Petco Park. If you’re looking for some fun nightlife or live music, Petco Park is home to the San Diego Padres baseball team as well as concerts and other events throughout the year. You can catch a game or concert almost any time during the week or weekend! The stadium also has an incredible view overlooking downtown San Diego.

Third, head to Balboa Park, home to many museums. This includes The San Diego Zoo, Air & Space Museum, Natural History Museum, Museum of Art and The Automotive Museum, just to name a few!

Summer temperatures in San Diego are also why it’s the best place for a weekend jaunt in the summer. Average temperatures range between the 60s and 70s in Fahrenheit with little to no chance of rain.

The closest international airport is San Diego International Airport. Its central location in the city makes it easy for travellers to land and start exploring on the same day.

Rasika says, “The best place to stay in San Diego is Hotel del Coronado . Its grandness and Victorian architecture is what brings travelers to San Diego again and again.”

Williamsburg, Virginia

By Merry from Virginia Vacation Guide

Williamsburg, Virginia is a great summer destination for a midweek break. It is filled with history, world-class amusement parks, wineries, shopping, restaurants, and much more. 

The major attraction in town is Colonial Williamsburg, which features buildings, streets, homes, gardens, and stores as they existed back in the 18th century. You can take a horse-drawn carriage ride past the Governor’s Palace, watch period plays at the outside theaters, or learn how tools were made at the blacksmith shop. 

Jamestown Settlement is located nearby. It has an excellent museum about colonial life, plus replicas of a colonial fort and Native American villages. The settlement is located on the James River and even features replicas of colonial ships that you can explore. 

For thrill-seekers, Williamsburg is home to Busch Gardens, which has over 60 attractions and shows, 13 exhilarating roller coasters, and even a water park . This makes it a perfect summer destination. 

Williamsburg is also home to many fabulous restaurants and shops, particularly around Merchants Square. Make sure to check out The Cheese Shop, Blue Talon Bistro, and Amber Ox Public House. 

If you’re interested in exploring local wineries, you can pay a visit to nearby Williamsburg Winery, which also features live music performances and a restaurant onsite.

Summer weather in southern Virginia tends to be very hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms. Temperatures generally range from the mid-80s to the 90s, only dropping down to the mid 60s F in the evening. Expect around 3.6″ of rain each month.

Williamsburg is easily accessible by plane or car. There are three international airports located nearby. The nearest airport is Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport (PHF), which is only 17 miles away. Norfolk International Airport (ORF) and Richmond International Airport (RIC) are both 45 miles away. 

The city is also conveniently located off of I-95 and I-64 in southeastern Virginia.

Merry says, “When visiting Williamsburg, there are a number of hotels conveniently located next to many of the major attractions. Kingsmill Resort is a sprawling resort complex that is just steps away from Busch Gardens.

Club Wyndham Kingsgate is another great option, with plenty of amenities like two swimming pools, miniature golf, and tennis courts.”

From the west coast to the east coast of the USA, there are many amazing places to visit for a summer weekend getaway. Whether you want to lounge on beaches, explore national or state parks, visit charming small towns, or experience the fast paced world of American cities, there is something for everyone in these fantastic summer weekend trips.

Similar Posts

24 Fabulous Fall Destinations In Europe (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole Fall is the best time to go to Europe. The large summer…

26 Best Places To Visit In UK In Summer (2024)

Last Updated on March 14, 2024 by Nicole The United Kingdom offers something for everyone. There is beautiful scenery, lovely…

50 Best Las Vegas Tips For First Time Visitors (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole Las Vegas is an amazing destination. Even if you do not want…

23 Best Places In USA To Celebrate A 21st Birthday (2024)

Last Updated on March 11, 2024 by Nicole You’ve done it! You have finally reached your 21st birthday, and now,…

Belfast City Break: An Action-Packed Itinerary (Fun And Adventure Await)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole My family (14 and 16 year old teens and 22 year old…

22 Best Places To Visit In The USA In July (2024)

Last Updated on March 13, 2024 by Nicole July in America can be the best time of year to visit….

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Privacy Overview

DOWNLOAD THE ITINERARY

• Email Address *

TSA expects to screen a record number of travelers for the July 4th weekend

A long Fourth of July holiday weekend in the United States is expected to create new travel records

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. -- Nicole Lindsay thought she could beat the holiday-week travel rush by booking an early-morning flight. It didn't work out that way.

“I thought it wouldn’t be that busy, but it turned out to be quite busy,” the Baltimore resident said as she herded her three daughters through Palm Beach International Airport in Florida. “It was a lot of kids on the flight, so it was kind of noisy — a lot of crying babies.”

Lindsay said the flight was full, but her family arrived safely to spend a few days in Port Saint Lucie, so she was not complaining.

Airlines hope the outcome is just as good for millions of other passengers scheduled to take holiday flights over the next few days.

AAA forecasts that 70.9 million people will travel at least 50 miles (80 kilometers) from home over a nine-day stretch that began June 27, a 5% increase over the comparable period around the Fourth of July last year. Most of those people will drive, and the motor club says traffic will be the worst between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. most days.

Federal officials expect air-travel records to fall as Americans turn the timing of July Fourth on a Thursday into a four-day — or longer — holiday weekend.

The Transportation Security Administration predicts that its officers will screen more than 3 million travelers at U.S. airports on Sunday. That would top the June 23 mark of more than 2.99 million. American Airlines said Sunday is expected to be its busiest day of the entire summer; it plans more than 6,500 flights.

TSA was created after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and replaced a collection of private security companies that were hired by airlines. Eight of the 10 busiest days in TSA's history have come this year, as the number of travelers tops pre-pandemic levels.

The head of the agency, David Pekoske, said Wednesday that TSA has enough screeners to handle the expected crowds this weekend and through the summer.

“We have been totally tested over the course of the last couple of months in being able to meet our wait-time standards of 10 minutes for a PreCheck passenger and 30 minutes for a standard passenger, so we are ready,” Pekoske said on NBC's “Today” show.

Peggy Grundstrom, a frequent traveler from Massachusetts who flew to Florida to visit her daughter and granddaughter, said the line for security in Hartford, Connecticut, was unusually long.

“It was busier than I have personally seen in the past," Grundstrom said. "But, you know, I prefer to fly unless it’s very local. I’m at a stage where I don’t want to travel in a car for long periods of time.”

Polls consistently show that a high percentage of Americans think the economy is poor , but that is not stopping them from traveling this summer.

“My finances are always pretty tight,” said Madison Tilner, a law-school student at Northwestern University who was waiting for a flight at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. But with a work life looming ahead of her, she said, "I'm trying to travel more and use my free time while I can. I think a lot of people feel that way in summer.”

Passengers on about 3,000 flights Wednesday were spending some of their free time hanging around airports because of flight delays, according to FlightAware.

Passengers on a Delta Air Lines red-eye flight from Detroit to Amsterdam had to put their travel plans on hold for several hours when the plane landed in New York because spoiled meals were served in the main cabin shortly after takeoff.

Delta apologized to passengers “for the inconvenience and delay in their travels.”

Associated Press video journalist Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed to this report. David Koenig reported from Dallas.

Related Topics

• 4th of July

Trending Reader Picks

12-year-old attacked and taken by crocodile

• Jul 3, 2:42 AM

Hurricane Beryl: Storm slamming Jamaica

• Jul 3, 9:00 PM

Flight diverts after travelers served spoiled food

• Jul 3, 7:52 AM

Biden said to signal 'open mind' on path forward

• Jul 3, 2:04 PM

Parents at beach with kids die in rip current

• Jun 21, 8:38 AM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events

• Travel Planning Center
• Ticket Changes & Refunds
• Airline Partners
• Check-in & Security
• Delta Sky Club®
• Airport Maps & Locations
• Flight Deals
• Flight Schedules
• Destinations
• Onboard Experience
• Delta Cruises
• Delta Vacations
• Delta Car Rentals
• Delta Stays
• Onboard Wi-Fi
• Delta Trip Protection
• How to Earn Miles
• Ways to Redeem Miles
• Buy or Transfer Miles
• Travel with Miles
• SkyMiles Partners & Offers
• SkyMiles Award Deals
• SkyMiles Credit Cards
• SkyMiles Airline Partners
• SkyMiles Program Overview​
• How to Get Medallion Status​
• Benefits at Each Tier
• News & Updates
• Help Center
• Travel Planning FAQs
• Certificates & eCredits
• Accessible Travel Services
• Child & Infant Travel
• Special Circumstances
• SkyMiles Help

Hurricane Beryl

The forecasted path of Hurricane Beryl may impact travel to/from/through the destination(s) listed below. Check flight status frequently for up-to-the-minute information about your flight plans, or get updates sent directly to your mobile device or by email with  On-Time Flight Notification.  

Future Travel Rebooking Options:

• A fare difference may apply when the waiver is class to class restrictive and the original booking class is not maintained in the rebooked itinerary.
• When rebooked travel occurs after July 04, 2024, a difference in fare may apply.
• If travel is not able to be rescheduled within these guidelines, customers may cancel their reservation and apply any unused value of the ticket toward the purchase of a new ticket for a period of one year from the original ticket issuance.  Applicable fare difference may apply for new travel dates. Final travel must be completed by end of ticket validity.

Conditions and Restrictions

Eligibility only for customers with an Original Ticket Issue Date on or before June 29, 2024 . Changes to origins and destinations may result in an increase in fare. Any difference in fare between your original ticket and the new ticket will be collected at the time of booking.

• Investor Relations
• Business Travel
• Travel Agents
• Comment/Complaint
• Browser Compatibility
• Accessibility
• Booking Information
• Customer Commitment
• Tarmac Delay Plan
• Sustainability
• Contract of Carriage
• Cookies, Privacy & Security
• Human Trafficking Statement (PDF)

• WEATHER ALERT Heat Advisory Full Story
• WEATHER ALERT Excessive Heat Warning Full Story
• holiday travel

July 4th holiday rush is on: TSA expects to screen a record number of travelers this weekend

A long Fourth of July holiday weekend is expected to create new travel records, with the Transportation Security Administration predicting that its officers will screen more than 3 million travelers at U.S. airports on Sunday.

That would top the June 23 mark of more than 2.99 million. American Airlines said Sunday is expected to be its busiest day of the entire summer; it plans more than 6,500 flights.

Federal officials expect air-travel records to fall as Americans turn the timing of July Fourth on a Thursday into a four-day -- or longer -- holiday weekend.

"This week we are expecting -- between now and Monday -- over 1 million passengers at" Los Angeles International Airport, said Justin Upshaw, an LAX spokesman. "We're expecting Sunday to be a very busy day as people return home from their Fourth of July holiday."

Where to watch 4th of July fireworks in Southern California

Jacquelyn Brooks' flight was scheduled to depart at 7:30 a.m. Wednesday. "And so we left at 4 (a.m.), got here right on time," the Palmdale resident said. "If you don't go right at that window, you're not going to make it."

AAA forecasts that 70.9 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home over a nine-day stretch that began June 27, a 5% increase over the comparable period around the Fourth of July last year. Most of those people will drive, and the motor club says traffic will be the worst between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. most days.

TSA was created after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and replaced a collection of private security companies that were hired by airlines. Eight of the 10 busiest days in TSA's history have come this year, as the number of travelers tops pre-pandemic levels.

The head of the agency, David Pekoske, said Wednesday that TSA has enough screeners to handle the expected crowds this weekend and through the summer.

"We have been totally tested over the course of the last couple of months in being able to meet our wait-time standards of 10 minutes for a PreCheck passenger and 30 minutes for a standard passenger, so we are ready," Pekoske said on NBC's "Today" show.

Peggy Grundstrom, a frequent traveler from Massachusetts who flew to Florida to visit her daughter and granddaughter, said the line for security in Hartford, Connecticut, was unusually long.

"It was busier than I have personally seen in the past," Grundstrom said. "But, you know, I prefer to fly unless it's very local. I'm at a stage where I don't want to travel in a car for long periods of time."

Passengers on a Delta Air Lines flight from Detroit to Amsterdam on Wednesday had to put their travel plans on hold for several hours when the plane landed in New York because spoiled meals were served in the main cabin shortly after takeoff.

Delta apologized to passengers "for the inconvenience and delay in their travels."

Nicole Lindsay thought she could beat the holiday-week travel rush by booking an early-morning flight. It didn't work out that way.

"I thought it wouldn't be that busy, but it turned out to be quite busy," the Baltimore resident said as she herded her three daughters through Palm Beach International Airport in Florida. "It was a lot of kids on the flight, so it was kind of noisy - a lot of crying babies."

Lindsay said the flight was full, but her family arrived safely to spend a few days in Port Saint Lucie, so she was not complaining.

Airlines hope the outcome is just as good for millions of other passengers scheduled to take holiday flights over the next few days.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Related Topics

• LOS ANGELES
• HOLIDAY TRAVEL
• U.S. & WORLD
• LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
• 4TH OF JULY
• JULY FOURTH

Holiday Travel

4th of July travel: How to avoid traffic, what to know before flying

Memorial Day weekend travel: The busiest days to fly and drive

Winter storm moves east, bringing flood threat to Northeast

Family speaks out after boy, 6, placed on wrong Spirit Airlines flight

Top stories.

5 juveniles in custody after high-speed chase ends in Hawthorne

Frustration grows over piles of trash left behind along Tujunga Wash

• 2 hours ago

Firework explosion injures 3 professionals in La Puente

Newsom touts his support for Biden and sidesteps replacement talk

Kris Jenner reveals tumor diagnosis

Kanye West's attorney says rapper won't speak to or pay him

How Shohei Ohtani has brought a new wave of Japanese tourists to LA

• 12 minutes ago

Studio City man pleads not guilty to setting off fireworks from copter

B.C. travellers urged to prepare for busy Canada Day long weekend

For b.c. ferries, canada day long weekend marks the 2nd busiest travel period of the year.

Social Sharing

As British Columbians gear up to celebrate Canada Day, officials are urging the public to plan ahead and stay safe amid expected travel congestion on ferries, highways, and at airports.

For B.C. Ferries, the Canada Day long weekend marks the second busiest travel period of the year, surpassed only by B.C. Day.

"We feel fully prepared heading into the long weekend and we're looking forward to ensuring our customers get to their destinations safely and comfortably," said Reet Sidhu, the company's senior communications adviser, told CBC News on Friday.

She recommends passengers looking to take a ferry from Vancouver's Tsawwassen Bay to Victoria's Swartz Bay – one of B.C. Ferries' busiest routes – without a booking, consider travelling as a foot passenger to avoid sailing waits.

B.C. Ferries says they're expecting close to 500,000 passengers on all routes Friday through Monday.

The company, which faced a number of challenges last year — from staffing shortages, last-minute cancellations and long waits — said they have increased sailings and made staffing changes this year around for a smooth summer travel experience.

Busy long weekend ahead for B.C. travellers

Sidhu says B.C. Ferries has added 350 new sailings, including 44 between Tsawwassen and Swartz Bay along with a new early morning sailing, and has hired 600 new staff for the summer.

It has also tightened its annual refit schedule in an effort to avoid cancellations during peak season. Refits refer to safety inspections and work on major parts, such as engines and brakes, that require a vessel to be pulled out of service, usually for 30 to 90 days.

⛴️ HEADS UP - Expect sailing waits at many <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InlandFerries?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InlandFerries</a> due to higher volumes of traffic this long weekend.<br><br>ℹ️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UpperArrowLakeFerry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UpperArrowLakeFerry</a> - 1-2 hour wait from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ShelterBay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ShelterBay</a> <br><br>ℹ️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeedlesFerry?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeedlesFerry</a> - 1-2 hour waits from both <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NeedlesBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NeedlesBC</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FauquierBC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FauquierBC</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCHwy23?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCHwy23</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCHwy6?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCHwy6</a> <a href="https://t.co/sDJeTbprYM">pic.twitter.com/sDJeTbprYM</a> &mdash; @DriveBC

YVR also busy

Long weekend preparations at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) also moved into high gear on Friday.

YVR communication specialist Emad Agahi says the airport is expected to see about 84,000 passengers for each day of the long weekend with Friday being the busiest day.

According to the airport authority, about 7.8 million passengers are expected to travel through the airport this summer — a 9.6 per cent increase compared to passenger levels last year during the same period.

Agahi says during peak travel times, staff will be stationed at information counters throughout the airport, and digital tools are also available to help people reach their gate on time.

Those travelling on flights this weekend could also be impacted by a mechanics' strike at WestJet , with the airline cancelling more than 150 flights on Saturday due to the strike by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA).

High-risk driving behaviours amid heavy traffic

Elsewhere in the province, traffic enforcement will be stepped up across the province during the long weekend, according to B.C. Highway Patrol. 

In a statement this week, B.C. Highway Patrol said it will be watching for impaired drivers, particularly around recreational areas and festivals where alcohol is served. 

Penalties for impaired driving include 24-hour driving prohibitions, immediate driving prohibitions of three, 30, or 90 days with vehicle impoundment, and potential criminal charges.

In an email to CBC News, the Insurance Corporation of B.C. (ICBC) said over Canada Day long weekend, on average, one person is killed and 176 injured in about 605 crashes in B.C. Speed and impairment were the top contributing factors in most of those crashes. 

Passengers should exercise caution before travelling: province

Ahead of the Canada Day long weekend, the B.C. government issued a statement advising travellers to exercise caution and readiness due to heightened wildfire risks stemming from warm weather and drought conditions across many areas of the province.

It is urging travellers to stay informed about wildfire conditions, adhere to fire bans and restrictions, and check for updates on road closures, evacuation notices, and other restrictions, including B.C. Parks closures.

• No reservation? Avoid taking your car on Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay route this weekend, B.C. Ferries says
• B.C. Ferries, YVR expect busy Canada Day long weekend

B.C.'s Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is also asking motorists to anticipate additional traffic on the Trans-Canada Highway over the long weekend and to allow extra travel time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Shaurya Kshatri is an associate producer at CBC News Vancouver. You can reach him at [email protected]

With files from Sohrab Sandhu

Related Stories

• Top stories from British Columbia
• MAID lawsuit shines spotlight on faith-based health organizations
• Rain eases fire fears but drought continues in northeast B.C.
• Man charged with murder of Surrey, B.C., woman Tori Dunn

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

The July 4th holiday rush is on. TSA expects to screen a record number of travelers this weekend

Travel records are expected to fall as people readied themselves for the holiday by jamming airports, including O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. (AP Video: Teresa Crawford)

A long Fourth of July holiday weekend in the United States is expected to create new travel records. The Transportation Security Administration predicts that its officers will screen more than 3 million travelers at U.S. airports on Sunday.

Travelers walk through the Philadelphia International Airport, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

• Copy Link copied

Travelers arrive at the Philadelphia International Airport, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

A travelers walks outside the Philadelphia International Airport, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Lacroix Winget, of Waterloo, Mich., waits on her flight home at the Philadelphia International Airport, Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) — Nicole Lindsay thought she could beat the holiday-week travel rush by booking an early-morning flight. It didn’t work out that way.

“I thought it wouldn’t be that busy, but it turned out to be quite busy,” the Baltimore resident said as she herded her three daughters through Palm Beach International Airport in Florida. “It was a lot of kids on the flight, so it was kind of noisy — a lot of crying babies.”

Lindsay said the flight was full, but her family arrived safely to spend a few days in Port Saint Lucie, so she was not complaining.

Airlines hope the outcome is just as good for millions of other passengers scheduled to take holiday flights over the next few days.

AAA forecasts that 70.9 million people will travel at least 50 miles (80 kilometers) from home over a nine-day stretch that began June 27, a 5% increase over the comparable period around the Fourth of July last year. Most of those people will drive, and the motor club says traffic will be the worst between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. most days.

Federal officials expect air-travel records to fall as Americans turn the timing of July Fourth on a Thursday into a four-day — or longer — holiday weekend.

The Transportation Security Administration predicts that its officers will screen more than 3 million travelers at U.S. airports on Sunday. That would top the June 23 mark of more than 2.99 million. American Airlines said Sunday is expected to be its busiest day of the entire summer; it plans more than 6,500 flights.

TSA was created after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and replaced a collection of private security companies that were hired by airlines. Eight of the 10 busiest days in TSA’s history have come this year, as the number of travelers tops pre-pandemic levels.

The head of the agency, David Pekoske, said Wednesday that TSA has enough screeners to handle the expected crowds this weekend and through the summer.

“We have been totally tested over the course of the last couple of months in being able to meet our wait-time standards of 10 minutes for a PreCheck passenger and 30 minutes for a standard passenger, so we are ready,” Pekoske said on NBC’s “Today” show.

Peggy Grundstrom, a frequent traveler from Massachusetts who flew to Florida to visit her daughter and granddaughter, said the line for security in Hartford, Connecticut, was unusually long.

“It was busier than I have personally seen in the past,” Grundstrom said. “But, you know, I prefer to fly unless it’s very local. I’m at a stage where I don’t want to travel in a car for long periods of time.”

Polls consistently show that a high percentage of Americans think the economy is poor , but that is not stopping them from traveling this summer.

“My finances are always pretty tight,” said Madison Tilner, a law-school student at Northwestern University who was waiting for a flight at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. But with a work life looming ahead of her, she said, “I’m trying to travel more and use my free time while I can. I think a lot of people feel that way in summer.”

Passengers on about 3,000 flights Wednesday were spending some of their free time hanging around airports because of flight delays, according to FlightAware.

Passengers on a Delta Air Lines red-eye flight from Detroit to Amsterdam had to put their travel plans on hold for several hours when the plane landed in New York because spoiled meals were served in the main cabin shortly after takeoff.

Delta apologized to passengers “for the inconvenience and delay in their travels.”

Associated Press video journalist Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed to this report. David Koenig reported from Dallas.

Fourth of July weather: Who will have holiday travel headaches?

Fox weather highlights weather trouble spots day-by-day through to the weekend after the fourth so you can plan your holiday..

Check your holiday travel forecast, all week long

FOX Weather is tracking your Fourth of July holiday travel forecast day by day whether you are hitting the road, the air or just the backyard.

FOX Weather has your one-stop-shop for the Fourth of July holiday-week road travel, air travel and fireworks forecasts across America.

"Active weather is expected to continue impacting the U.S. leading up to the 4th of July. With several storm systems in play, travelers are facing major disruptions as they try to get to their holiday destination," warns the FOX Forecast Center. "And the ripple effect of airport delays and cancelations will take its toll as we approach the weekend. Mounting issues will cause a backup of flights, creating headaches for those trying to get out of town."

AAA forecasts a record 71 million people traveling 50 miles or more through the weekend after the holiday, beating pre-pandemic numbers. Over 60 million people will hit the road. More than 57 million will take to the air, and almost 5 million will be cruising or taking buses and trains.

DRIVE INTO SUMMER PREPARED: 5 THINGS TO KNOW WHEN YOU HIT THE ROAD IN EXTREME HEAT

Stormy weather shifts into the Southeast on Monday. Watch for flash flooding across South Carolina and Georgia. Travel conditions improve across the Northeast throughout the day.

Oppressive heat sets up over the south-central U.S.

MINUTES MATTER: WHAT YOU SHOULD DO IF YOU SEE A CHILD LOCKED IN A HOT CAR

An impressive storm charges into the Midwest , bringing the chance of thunderstorms that will stretch down to the southern Plains. The heat presses west into California, where Excessive Heat Advisories are in place.

WHICH US AIRPORTS HAVE THE LONGEST AND SHORTEST DELAYS?

LIGHTNING DEATHS ARE ON THE RISE. HERE'S WHAT TO DO TO STAY SAFE WHEN THUNDER ROARS

Moisture surges into the four corners and could touch off thunderstorms . These bring the threat of flash flooding in some areas and could create dangerous conditions for wildfires .

4th of July weather forecast

Barbecue, beach, boating and parade forecast:.

Fourth of July day forecast. ( )

4TH OF JULY FIREWORKS CAN BRING DRASTIC DROP IN AIR QUALITY

Keep an eye on the sky across the Midwest and Ohio Valley as afternoon thunderstorms bring the threat of damaging wind gusts and heavy rain .

7 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES TO FOURTH OF JULY FIREWORKS

HOW WEATHER IMPACTS JULY FOURTH FIREWORK SHOWS

Hopefully, most of you will already be at your holiday destinations because airport travel could be challenging from Minneapolis and Chicago through to New Orleans . Unsettled weather creeps back into the Mid-Atlantic.

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

Here is the fireworks forecast:

The fireworks forecast.

(FOX Weather)

Watch for storms across the Southern Plains to the Ohio Valley.

HOW A WEATHER DELAY ON A FLIGHT COULD PUT MONEY BACK IN YOUR WALLET

Travel will be easier in the morning on both Saturday and Sunday.

HOW TO SET UP EVENTS IN YOUR FUTUREVIEW PLAN TAB ON THE FOX WEATHER APP

FOX Weather will be watching the Gulf Coast for any tropical activity .

• Commuter Forecast
• Precipitation
• Transportation
• Severe Weather

The July 4th holiday rush is on. TSA expects to screen a record number of travelers this weekend

A long Fourth of July holiday weekend in the United States is expected to create new travel records

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — Nicole Lindsay thought she could beat the holiday-week travel rush by booking an early-morning flight. It didn’t work out that way.

“I thought it wouldn’t be that busy, but it turned out to be quite busy,” the Baltimore resident said as she herded her three daughters through Palm Beach International Airport in Florida. “It was a lot of kids on the flight, so it was kind of noisy — a lot of crying babies.”

Lindsay said the flight was full, but her family arrived safely to spend a few days in Port Saint Lucie, so she was not complaining.

Airlines hope the outcome is just as good for millions of other passengers scheduled to take holiday flights over the next few days.

AAA forecasts that 70.9 million people will travel at least 50 miles (80 kilometers) from home over a nine-day stretch that began June 27, a 5% increase over the comparable period around the Fourth of July last year. Most of those people will drive, and the motor club says traffic will be the worst between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. most days.

Federal officials expect air-travel records to fall as Americans turn the timing of July Fourth on a Thursday into a four-day — or longer — holiday weekend.

The Transportation Security Administration predicts that its officers will screen more than 3 million travelers at U.S. airports on Sunday. That would top the June 23 mark of more than 2.99 million. American Airlines said Sunday is expected to be its busiest day of the entire summer; it plans more than 6,500 flights.

TSA was created after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and replaced a collection of private security companies that were hired by airlines. Eight of the 10 busiest days in TSA’s history have come this year, as the number of travelers tops pre-pandemic levels.

The head of the agency, David Pekoske, said Wednesday that TSA has enough screeners to handle the expected crowds this weekend and through the summer.

“We have been totally tested over the course of the last couple of months in being able to meet our wait-time standards of 10 minutes for a PreCheck passenger and 30 minutes for a standard passenger, so we are ready,” Pekoske said on NBC’s “Today” show.

Peggy Grundstrom, a frequent traveler from Massachusetts who flew to Florida to visit her daughter and granddaughter, said the line for security in Hartford, Connecticut, was unusually long.

“It was busier than I have personally seen in the past,” Grundstrom said. “But, you know, I prefer to fly unless it’s very local. I’m at a stage where I don’t want to travel in a car for long periods of time.”

Polls consistently show that a high percentage of Americans think the economy is poor , but that is not stopping them from traveling this summer.

“My finances are always pretty tight,” said Madison Tilner, a law-school student at Northwestern University who was waiting for a flight at O’Hare International Airport in Chicago. But with a work life looming ahead of her, she said, “I’m trying to travel more and use my free time while I can. I think a lot of people feel that way in summer.”

Passengers on about 3,000 flights Wednesday were spending some of their free time hanging around airports because of flight delays, according to FlightAware.

Passengers on a Delta Air Lines red-eye flight from Detroit to Amsterdam had to put their travel plans on hold for several hours when the plane landed in New York because spoiled meals were served in the main cabin shortly after takeoff.

Delta apologized to passengers “for the inconvenience and delay in their travels.”

Associated Press video journalist Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed to this report. David Koenig reported from Dallas.

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Saturn Stadium

Members can access discounts and special features

Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Fryazino Centre for Culture and Leisure
• Military Technical Museum
• Church of Our Lady of Kazan
• Drama Theatre BOOM
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Borisoglebsky Sports Palace
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Church of Vladimir
• Shirokov House
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
• Pavlovsky Posad Museum of Art and History
• Saturn Stadium
• Zheleznodorozhny Museum of Local Lore
• Stella Municipal Drama Theater
• Fairy Tale Children's Model Puppet Theater
• Fifth House Gallery
• Likino Dulevo Museum of Local Lore
• Malakhovka Museum of History and Culture
• Art Gallery of The City District