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Home » Local » 15 Spectacular weekend getaways within 3 hours of Charlotte, North Carolina

15 Spectacular weekend getaways within 3 hours of Charlotte, North Carolina

Last Updated on December 22, 2023

Even though we love living in Charlotte, a charming town between the coast and the mountains, it’s nice to get out of town and explore every now and then.

Fortunately, we have access to so many incredible destinations within a three hour drive. From bustling cities to natural hot springs and picturesque small towns to national parks, there are plenty of opportunities for travel.

Make it your goal to visit one or two of these spectacular road trip destinations close to Charlotte and experience our area’s natural beauty, historic architecture and cultural attractions. Adventure awaits!

15 weekend getaways within 3 hours of Charlotte, North Carolina 

Lake lure, north carolina.

Photo courtesy of Liza Goodlett via  The Lodge on Lake Lure

Driving time from Charlotte: 2 hours

Why we love it: This famous Lake was the setting for the classic film Dirty Dancing, but is even more gorgeous in person. Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the quiet getaway features lush greenery, a flowering bridge , a beach and nearby attractions, including Asheville and Chimney Rock. We’re sure you’ll have the time of your life!

Where to stay: The Lodge on Lake Lure makes it easy to experience life on the lake with complimentary paddle boards, canoes and kayaks. Plus, you can enjoy luxurious features like an on-site restaurant with locally sourced fare, plush bathrobes, and a wine and cheese hour.

Wilmington, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte: 3.5 hours  

Why we love it: With an abundance of seafood, historic sights and landmarks, mini golf, and outdoor activities there is something for everyone to enjoy in this coastal city in south eastern North Carolina. Take in the sunshine and relax on the white sandy beaches, or put your adventure cap on and go kayaking, fishing in local inlets or check out some of the best restaurants in Wilmington . No matter your preference, you are guaranteed a great time!

Where to stay: Book a stay at the Hotel Ballast to perfectly compliment your trip to Wilmington, NC. Boasting beautiful historic and river views, on site dining, and a close proximity to downtown, this hotel has it all. 

Related reading:

Boone, North Carolina 

Photo courtesy of Skip Sickler | Grandfather Mountain Stewardship Foundation

Why we love it: Outdoor adventurers, take note. Boone is a lesser-known outdoor haven in the Blue Mountains!

Here, you’ll find bouldering, zip lines, tubing opportunities, hiking, kayaking, mountain bike trails and so much more. Skiing in Boone is a thrill and ski enthusiasts look forward to the season year after year.

Once you’re done tackling your adventure of choice, there are plenty of opportunities for top-notch relaxation as well. Pamper yourself at a world-class spa, go wine tasting at the local vineyards and shop along King Street. It’s an incredible place to visit at any time of year!

Where to stay: Set in a Greek Revival-style mansion, the Westglow Resort & Spa is a romantic getaway with impeccable service, delicious food and a full-service spa. It sits on a secluded 42-acre estate in one of the state’s most beautiful locations!

And we’re not the only ones who have recognized it as one of the bests — it has earned accolades from Condé Nast Traveler , Travel & Leisure Magazine , Open Table and more.

Ready to make one of these beautiful places home? Let us help!

Greenville, South Carolina

Photo courtesy of Mary Beth Thomas via  VisitGreenvilleSC

Why we love it: There is so much to love about Greenville, South Carolina. The town is famous for the park in the town’s center, Falls Park on the Reedy, which features spectacular riverfront gardens and waterfall views.

But it’s also famous for the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which attracts more than 1,000 visitors each day to traverse the 22 miles to nearby Travelers Rest by bike. While you’re in the area, make sure to check out some of Greenville’s best restaurants (The Lazy Goat features top-notch Mediterranean dishes and views of the river), or get some ideas from our list of fun things to do in Greenville .

Where to stay: There are several awesome Bed and Breakfast options in Greenville, but we recommend the Swamp Rabbit Inn . This charming and quirky hotel is a haven for families, cyclists and couples alike — offering private cottages, an on-site bike shed and super friendly staff to help provide local recommendations.

Davidson, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte: 30 minutes

Why we love it: If you love small towns, this city is calling your name for a weekend getaway. Just a short drive from Lake Norman and downtown Charlotte, experience it all in this picturesque small town.

From the Main Street Bookstore to the well manicured grounds of Davidson College to boating out on the Lake, this trip will make for a relaxing and fun getaway 365 days of the year.

Where to stay: The Davidson Village Inn is in the heart of Davidson. The central location of the Bed and Breakfast allows visitors to be within walking distance of the local shops and restaurants. Plus, enjoy local delicacies for breakfast each morning.

Asheville, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of Explore Asheville

Driving time from Charlotte:  2 hours, 15 minutes

Why we love it: Asheville is a little slice of paradise tucked into North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Known as Beer City, USA, Asheville features the most breweries per capita in the country, but is also famous for its vibrant art scene, incredible restaurants and historic architecture.

You could spend the entire weekend hopping from restaurant to restaurant (think: tapas at Curate or tacos at the White Duck Taco Shop ), and if you’re a foodie, you’ve got to check out our list of the best restaurants in Asheville , but make sure to stop into some of the shops and museums along the way. Or, step outside of town for a wildflower-rich hike at Max Patch on the Appalachian Trail!

Where to stay: The Omni Grove Park Inn features a $50 million spa underground that has been ranked as one of the top 20 in the country by Condé Nast Traveler. That’s reason enough to visit, but the inn also offers easy access to nearby breweries, gorgeous scenery and an on-site piano bar.

Related reading: 15 things to do in Asheville this fall

Brevard, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of BrevardNC.com

Driving time from Charlotte: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Why we love it: Situated 130 miles west of Charlotte, Brevard, North Carolina is known as the land of the waterfalls. And trust us, it’s just as picturesque as it sounds. Visit during the summer for the ultimate waterfall experience — hiking and swimming opportunities abound!

After exploring the outdoors, you’ll be able to enjoy the friendly atmosphere of the charming small town, which features delicious restaurants, shops, and festivals or concerts almost every weekend.

Bonus: While you’re here, make sure to check out Sliding Rock , a popular swimming hole with a natural rock waterslide. It is sure to be a hit for adventurers of all ages!

Where to stay: Book a cabin through Deer Ridge ! These charming cottages feature mountain views, fireplaces and other upscale amenities, and most of them are dog-friendly!

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte:  2 hours

Why we love it: Nestled near Boone, NC, Blowing Rock has scenic mountain views around every corner and a breath of fresh air that can sometimes be hard to find in the city.

Take it easy in this small town on your weekend getaway. Go hiking at The Blowing Rock–it’s dog friendly!–or walk around Main Street and grab a bite to eat at Storie Street Grill. Overall, this trip will be perfect for hanging out with your honey or exploring with your family.

Where to stay: Coined as “one of the best stays in the Blue Ridge” by Southern Living, Chetola Resort , this place offers everything from afternoon tea, a full service spa for everything hair, nail, and face care related, fly fishing, archery and much, much more. The Chetola Resorts is the perfect place to stay to take in all Blowing Rock has to offer.

Related reading: 20 fun things to do in Blowing Rock and Boone this summer

The Research Triangle, North Carolina

Photo courtesy of the Washington Duke Inn

Driving time from Charlotte: 2 hours, 30 minutes (to Durham)

Why we love it: A large chunk of Charlotte’s population is made up of graduates of UNC Chapel Hill or Duke University, so if you’re a Tar Heel or Blue Devil reading this, you already know the lowdown on the Research Triangle. This area, linked by Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, is ripe with opportunities for exploring — including top-notch nightlife and culinary scenes.

There are also plenty of cultural experiences, art and history museums, and historic architecture! While you’re here, taste moonshine at Topo Distillery , experience the exclusive atmosphere at the Crunkleton ($5 buys a membership), enjoy farm-to-table fare at the area’s restaurants, explore Durham’s American Tobacco Campus , and visit the Peanut Roaster in Henderson. There is also easy access the outdoors at the nearby Eno River State Park !

Where to stay: The Washington Duke Inn and Golf Club allows for an exclusive, resort feel without the astronomical price tag. Golf enthusiasts will love the proximity to the on-site course, but everyone will enjoy exploring the 300 acres of tall pines and hardwoods in Duke Forest! The Inn is conveniently located on the Campus of Duke University, and offers easy access to everything the Research Triangle has to offer.

Winston Salem, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte: 1 hour, 19 minutes

Why we love it: You name it, Winston Salem has it. Good eats, outdoor excursions, art, and history, this city has it all. Check out Old Salem and learn about the history of the village. Or, explore the arts district downtown where you can windowshop and dine at the local restaurants.

Where to stay: Close to dining, history, entertainment, and more, Hotel Indigo is our top choice for a place to stay in Winston Salem. This modern hotel offers both one and two bed rooms great for both couples and families. Check out the specially crafted drink menu at the on site restaurant to compliment your stay.

Grayson Highlands State Park, Virginia

Driving time from Charlotte: 2 hours, 50 minutes

Why we love it: Welcome to one of the most picturesque places in the country. Grayson Highlands State Park is located within Jefferson National Forest near Mount Rogers and Whitetop Mountain, and is a haven for photographers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Hiking trails lead to waterfalls and spectacular overlooks, and the camping throughout the area is top notch.

Where to stay: Pitch a tent or stay at one of the local cabins! You can find all of the information you need for that on the park’s website .

Thinking about buying a home soon? Click here to receive your free copy of our first-time home buyer ebook!

Hot Springs, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte: 3 hours

Why we love it: Imagine soaking in an all-natural pool of hot, crystal clear mineral waters with healing properties. Now, imagine doing that with incredible views of the mountains!

Hot Springs, North Carolina is a small town that surrounds a 100-acre resort and spa with modern jacuzzi-style hot tubs positioned along the banks of Spring Creek and the French Broad River. The tubs are supplied with the world famous hot mineral water that put this little town on the map, and there are also massage therapists on site to complete the spa-like experience.

Where to stay:  The Hot Springs Resort & Spa offers several different lodging options for your relaxing getaway, including luxury suites, a deluxe cabin with a private outdoor tub, primitive camping sports and more.

Lake Jocassee, South Carolina

Why we love it: Lake Jocassee is a magnificent, 9,000-acre, spring-fed lake located in northwest South Carolina. In the morning, the glassy surface of the water reflects the pristine shoreline and the surrounding rock formations, and at any point on the lake, you can enjoy staggering mountain vistas.

It’s certainly one of the area’s most gorgeous natural attractions! There are three boat ramps offering public access to the lake, 20 lakeside villas, an abundance of campsites, several hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities — all you need for a memorable weekend adventure.

Where to stay: Either pitch a tent at one of the campgrounds or book one of the spectacular lakeside villas for a more luxurious experience. Either way, you will be graced with excellent views and easy access to the lake!

Charleston, South Carolina

Why we love it: Charleston’s historic district is second to none. Showcasing colorful historic homes, ornate balconies, charming churches and horse-drawn carriages to take in the views, it feels like you’ve stepped into the past! Of course, that’s not all that Charleston has to offer.

Perched on the coast of the Atlantic ocean, the city offers an abundance of fresh seafood and stunning beaches for soaking in the sunshine. In fact, the city was voted the #1 city in the US and Canada by Condé Nast Traveler in 2017! You might need more than a weekend to see everything.

Where to stay: If you’re going to Charleston, you might as well go all out! The Wentworth Mansion is one of the city’s most historic, unique and luxurious hotels — and the only one in town with a five-star rating. The Wentworth offers a true dose of Southern hospitality and easy access to the area’s best attractions.

Related reading: Amusement parks within four hours of Charlotte

The Highlands, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte: 3.5 hours

Why we love it: Atop high peaks in the Nantahala National Forest is a quiet mountain town with impeccable dining, gorgeous scenery and no shortage of places to relax and unwind.

From golf, to arts and culture, five star dining and a bustling downtown and fall foliage to die for, this getaway is highly sought after in the autumn months.

Where to stay: Without a doubt, the most popular place to stay is Old Edwards inn and Spa. Modeled after a European Chateau, the inn is located right in the heart of downtown Highlands.

For a little bit of a different experience, you can stay at Half Mile Farm, which is described as more of a Napa-style setting.

Related reading: The best restaurants in Highlands, NC

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Visit Highlands NC (@visithighlandsnc)

Durham, North Carolina

Driving time from Charlotte: 2 hours, 12 minutes

Why we love it: As one of the cities that make up the Research Triangle, this city will not disappoint. Snap some photos on Duke’s scenic campus and take a look inside the Duke University Chapel.

Watch a show at the Durham Performing Arts Center or explore the hidden historic and artsy Tobacco District. No matter what you choose to do, this city has something new to explore around every corner.

Where to stay: The Durham Hotel is a stunning mid century modern hotel with a vast offering of rooms and suites. Take in the views of Durham from their rooftop: enjoy small plates and drinks at the bar or participate in one of their rooftop yoga classes.

Ready to find a great home near these destinations? Search now for homes for sale in Charlotte, NC !

Enjoy your weekend getaway!

About allen tate realtors.

Allen Tate  Realtors has been helping our clients achieve their real estate goals since 1957 and is the #1 real estate company in the Carolinas. With local roots and global connections, thanks to our partnership with Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, our real estate agents can provide their customers with superior service, unparalleled connections, and vast market knowledge. Allen Tate provides real estate, mortgage, insurance, and relocation services throughout the entire homeownership lifecycle.

 Allen Tate Companies is a proud partner of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services, the largest independent, family-owned real estate company in the country. With more than 13,000 sales associates and staff members across the combined companies, our agents are the best of the best. 

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Best Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours Near You

• November 29, 2023

Discovering the Perfect Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Me

A breather from the daily grind is absolutely essential, especially for the go-getters who are always on the move. We’re talking about those weekend getaways within 3 hours of me that serve up a refreshing change without the dread of long-haul travel. The closer, the better, I always say—proximity slices down travel stress big time, allowing you more R&R time.

But hey, how exactly does one sniff out the ideal weekend spot? It’s a mix of keen research and a touch of serendipity. And let’s face it, short-distance travel has become all the rage—you don’t need to fly halfway across the world to feel like you’re on vacation.

Unveiling Hidden Gems: Weekend Retreats a Short Drive Away

When hunting down premium getaways, you gotta be choosy. Quality spots typically offer up a killer trio: eye-catching scenery, engaging activities, and cozy places to crash. I’ve chatted with folks who’ve hit jackpots on these little-known retreats, and man, the stories they tell!

Absolutely, you can stumble upon a hidden gem too. Just remember to tick off those criteria, and you’re golden.

Abu Dhabi The Charm of Tradition

Abu Dhabi, The Charm of Tradition, is a captivating coffee table book that takes readers on a visual journey through the rich cultural heritage and enduring customs of the Emirati capital. Stunningly bound, the book boasts a collection of high-quality photographs that vividly showcase the traditional architecture, clothing, and craftwork that have been the bedrock of the region’s identity for centuries. Each image is accompanied by insightful text that delves into the historical significance of the traditions, providing context and giving readers a deep appreciation for Abu Dhabi’s commitment to preserving its roots amidst modernization.

Beyond its visual allure, the book provides an engaging narrative of Abu Dhabi’s transformation from a humble pearling village to a beacon of luxury and innovation, without losing sight of its ancestral values. The narrative highlights the emirate’s festivals, folklore, and the hospitality that are emblematic of its traditional charm. The inclusion of personal anecdotes from local citizens adds a heartfelt dimension, offering intimate glimpses into the daily practices that continue to shape Emirati culture.

“Abu Dhabi, The Charm of Tradition” serves as both an educational tool and a piece of art, making it an ideal acquisition for those fascinated by the intersection of past and present, as well as for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the genuine spirit of this dynamic region. It is also a testament to the preservation efforts undertaken by the Abu Dhabi community, ensuring that the emirate’s unique traditions continue to thrive alongside its cosmopolitan evolution. This book is not just a read; it’s an experience that celebrates and honors the timeless allure of Abu Dhabi’s cultural legacy.

Escaping the City: Rustic Charm Within Reach

Say you’re a city dweller thirsting for a rustic escape—think no further than the countryside sprinkled within your three-hour radius. The mental health perks of recharging in nature are huge—just ask any urbanite who’s spent a weekend at a countryside lodge, a farm stay, or a nature resort. These places are brimming with down-to-earth charm, and they’re closer than you’d think.

Adventure Awaits: Weekend Thrills for the Active Soul

For the active souls itching for a dose of adrenaline, there’s no shortage of destinations with hiking trails, rock faces begging to be climbed, or lakes that are perfect for watersports—all within a three-hour orbit. Science backs the wellness benefits of getting outdoors, but honestly, the real proof’s in the pudding—the experiences.

Coastal Havens: Beachfront Bliss Just a Stone’s Throw Away

A quick jaunt to the coast can offer seaside serenity that’s just what the doctor ordered. You might consider timing your jaunt for the off-season—because, let’s face it, secluded beach charm with fewer folks around? That’s the sweet spot. And let’s not forget about sustainable digs—supporting eco-friendly seaside spots is a goal we should all surf towards.

Lilly Pulitzer Insulted Backpack Cooler Large Capacity, PinkBlue Portable Soft Cooler Bag for Picnics, Beach, Pool, Hiking, Best Fishes

Discover the perfect blend of style and practicality with the Lilly Pulitzer Insulated Backpack Cooler. Boasting a spacious interior, this large-capacity cooler bag can hold all your snacks and beverages, keeping them chilled for hours. Its eye-catching PinkBlue design and vibrant ‘Best Fishes’ pattern exude a playful charm that’s quintessentially Lilly Pulitzer, transforming an ordinary utility item into a chic accessory. Ergonomically designed with padded straps, this backpack ensures comfort even when fully loaded, making it ideal for picnics, beach outings, pool parties, or adventurous hikes.

This portable soft cooler bag is designed with durability in mind, featuring high-quality insulation and robust materials to withstand the elements and frequent use. The insulation technology ensures that your food and drinks maintain their temperature, while the water-resistant exterior keeps moisture at bay. Multiple pockets provide ample storage for essentials, including a front zipper pocket for utensils and small items, and side pockets for easy access to water bottles or additional storage.

The Lilly Pulitzer Insulated Backpack Cooler simplifies transportation of your refreshments, liberating your hands for other gear or activities. Its lightweight construction means you won’t feel weighed down as you trek to your outdoor destination. Effortlessly keep your perishables cool and secure, all while making a statement with the cooler’s unique blend of functionality and Lilly Pulitzer’s signature flair. Whether you’re planning a day out with friends or a solo adventure, this backpack cooler is sure to become an indispensable part of your outdoor essentials.

Cultural Escapes: Enriching Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours

Within a few hours’ drive, cultural buffs can find plenty of towns oozing with authentic vibes, from art galleries to live music joints. Visitors agree: The local culture can make or break your trip. It’s all about soaking up fresh experiences that enrich the soul.

Rejuvenate and Relax: Spa Destinations for a Restful Weekend

Imagine unwinding at a health spa or a resort dedicated to your relaxation. That’s right, my friends, this is the kind of getaway where you can truly step away from the grind and pamper yourself. Wellness tourism is shaping up, with trends swaying travelers towards tranquility, and some visitors swear it’s the ticket to rejuvenation.

Culinary Journeys: Weekend Getaways with a Taste of Local Flavors

Weekend trips revolving around culinary delights are simply a recipe for success—you get to dive into the local palate, and sometimes it’s worth traveling just for a unique dining experience. Think about those eateries that bring farm-to-table or host their shindigs in the most whimsical of settings. Now that’s something I’d drive three hours for!

Kenneth Cole REACTION Out of Bounds Lightweight Hardshell heel Spinner Luggage, Magenta, Inch Carry On

Travel in style with the Kenneth Cole REACTION “Out of Bounds” carry-on luggage in a stunning magenta shade. This lightweight, hardshell suitcase is designed for the modern traveler, featuring a durable ABS construction that provides a balance between protection and lightness. The dimensions are suitable for most airline overhead compartments, making it the perfect companion for both international and domestic flights. Its vibrant color ensures visibility on the luggage carousel while also adding a pop of personality to your travel ensemble.

This piece of luggage offers a user-friendly experience with its multi-directional 4-wheel spinners, allowing for smooth 360-degree movement over any terrain. The retractable telescoping handle locks into place, providing comfort and reliability when rolling your case through busy terminals. The interior boasts multiple compartments and straps to keep your belongings organized and in place during transit. The exterior features a well-engineered layout including a convenient and flexible top and side handle for easy maneuvering.

Kenneth Cole ensures your belongings stay secure with the Out of Bounds luggage’s thoughtful design. A sturdy zipper closure alongside the hardshell exterior helps safeguard your possessions against the rigors of travel. Additionally, it includes side bezels that allow the suitcase to stand upright on its side, reducing the need for additional support. Whether it’s for a short business trip or a getaway weekend, this chic, reliable, and functional carry-on luggage will be your go-to travel essential.

Staycations Redefined: Exploring Your City’s Outskirts

The concept of staycations has evolved. It’s not just lounging at home—it’s about digging into your city’s outskirts to find locales that grant the vibe of a bonafide getaway. Sometimes the most splendid spots are just around the corner, often ignored by those too familiar with their own stomping grounds.

Leveraging Tech to Unlock Nearby Escapes

Tech’s your ally in tracking down the best weekend trips. With apps and digital tools galore, planning a short trip can be as easy as pie. Real user reviews? Oh, they’re invaluable, steering us towards decision-making that leads to exceptional experiences.

In Harmony with the Environment: Eco-Friendly Weekend Escapes

Green travel’s not just a catchphrase: it’s a call to action. Selecting an eco-retreat throws support behind sustainable travel, and thankfully, there are nearby options that walk the talk on environmental stewardship. Your getaway can play a part in the bigger picture of conservation.

Planning Essentials: Tips for Maximizing Your Weekend Adventure

Now, maximizing your weekend excursion means smart packing and a game plan to sidestep those common travel goofs. Take a leaf out of the experts’ books—they’ve got the travel hacks that ensure you squeeze all the joy out of those precious days away from the hustle.

Final Thoughts: Breathe New Life Into Your Weekends

The juice of life comes from new experiences, and there’s nothing like uncovering places a hop, skip, and a jump from your doorstep that infuse your weekends with zest. It’s about crafting memories that stick and shaking off the repetition. So, go forth, my fellow wanderlusters—recharge, rejuvenate, and regale with your tales of weekend adventures.

Wanderlust on a Whim: Quick Trips that Pack a Punch

Alright, folks! Feeling that itch to escape the everyday grind without venturing too far? Say no more! We’ve got the lowdown on some fabulous weekend getaways that are just three hours (or hey, even less) from your doorstep. Let’s dive into the quirky, the charming, and the outright unforgettable spots you can zip off to on a whim—each with a delightful twist to keep things spicy!

The Artsy Escape: Where Creativity Meets Leisure

Hey, do you know about the quaint little town with streets lined with art galleries and a vibe so chill, it’d make an ice cube jealous? Just a hop, skip, and a jump away, it’s the perfect place for those who appreciate a stroke of genius and a breath of fresh air. Imagine wandering down the cobblestones, all the while channeling your inner “ Frida Gustavsson ,” art-enthusiast extraordinaire. Don’t know her? She’s as stunning as a moonlit sculpture garden, so check out what makes her an icon in creativity.

Retro Retreat: Vintage Vibes and Vinyl Nights

Who’s up for a blast from the past? Picture this: a cozy town known for its retro diners, classic car shows, and record stores that make you wanna twist and shout. This spot is a time capsule where every “ Gina Gershon “-like glamorous maven from the silver screen would feel right at home sashaying down Main Street. Throw on those wayfarers and get ready to be a cool cat in this time-traveler’s dream—just make sure you’ve got the scoop on the legendary Gina before you strike a pose at the photo booth.

The Musical Getaway: Beats Beyond Borders

Okay, you music lovers and concert-goers, we’ve stumbled upon a gem where the “ Rbd tour ” vibe thrives all year round. Imagine a town bursting with live music, from street performers to intimate venues, where the beats keep on thumpin’ long after the sun’s taken a dive. Ready to boogie? Learn more about how the RBD tour is taking center stage and might just inspire your next musical road trip!

The Historical Hideaway: Time-Travel Town

Now, let’s talk about a spot where history buffs can roam where “ Joanne Whalley ” would dominate on the silver screen in a period drama. We’re talking cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and taverns that have seen more plots than a novelist’s notebook. A place steeped in stories, where you can tip your hat to the legends and lore that paved the way. Intrigued by such historical haunts? Delve into the life of Joanne Whalley and her timeless roles that echo through the halls of these vintage venues.

The Nature Nook: Spectacular Views and Fresh Perspectives

And, for the love of all things green and serene, there’s a nature nook close by that’s the equivalent of slipping on a pair of “ hubble Contacts ” and seeing the world in HD—lush landscapes, babbling brooks, and trails that beckon with every twist and turn. Whether you’re itching for a hike, longing for a lazy river float, or fancy pitching a tent under the stars, getting clear on your nature goals is like discovering the great outdoors for the first time . Take a peek through Hubble contacts’ lens on how to make your great escape even greater.

There you have it, intrepid explorers! No need to trek to the ends of the earth—or even the other side of the country—when adventure is just a stone’s throw away. Lace-up those sneakers, gas up the car, or heck, just go old-school and catch a train to somewhere new and nifty. Have a blast, make some memories, and remember, the best stories are usually found just three hours from “Hey, let’s go there!”

Melanin is… hour Intense Hydration + Replenishing Lotion Full Body Moisturizer, Hydrating Sea Moss, Natural Skincare Moisturizing for Melanin Skin oz

Melanin is… Intense Hydration + Replenishing Lotion is a luxuriously crafted full-body moisturizer designed specifically for the unique needs of melanin-rich skin. Infused with the potent natural benefits of hydrating sea moss, this lotion delivers an unparalleled moisture experience that nourishes deeply and replenishes the skin’s essential hydration levels. Each application of the creamy, rich formula is a treat, caressing the skin with a non-greasy finish that leaves your body feeling soft, supple, and revitalized. Perfect for those seeking a natural skincare solution, this moisturizer celebrates the strength and beauty of melanin skin, offering 24-hour intense hydration that rejuvenates from head to toe.

With every ounce of Melanin is… Intense Hydration + Replenishing Lotion, your skin is enveloped in a hydration haven, quenching dryness and fortifying the skin barrier against environmental stressors. The product features ingredients of the highest caliber, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that work synergistically to promote a healthy, glowing complexion. Not only does it cater to the daily needs of melanin-rich skin, but it also helps to even skin tone and improve texture over time. The lotion’s carefully balanced formula is free from harsh chemicals, ensuring it’s safe for all skin types, even the most sensitive.

Experience the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation with every application of Melanin is… Intense Hydration + Replenishing Lotion. The inclusion of sea moss, renowned for its hydrating properties, provides an abundance of natural minerals that support the skin’s own hydration processes. Ideal for daily use, this moisturizing formula absorbs quickly, leaving behind a delicate scent that is as refreshing as it is soothing. This lotion is not just a product, it’s a commitment to the health and vibrancy of melanin-enriched skin, packed in a generous, convenient size that ensures your skin remains deeply moisturized day after day.

Which country is close to Houston Texas?

Well, if you’re looking for an international flavor within a stone’s throw of Houston, Texas, Mexico is your go-to. It’s right next door—literally. Just scoot south and before you know it, you’ll hit the border and voila, international vibes!

How do I plan a weekend trip on a budget?

Planning a weekend trip on a budget? Easy peasy. First off, start by scouring the web for deals—you’ll find heaps! Then, pick a spot you can drive to, to save some moolah on flights. Rough it up with camping or find a cozy, budget-friendly Airbnb. And hey, potluck picnics beat fancy restaurants any day!

How do I plan a weekend getaway alone?

Ah, a solo weekend adventure? You’ve got this! First up, think about what floats your boat—nature, cities, or a quaint town perhaps? Once you decide that, finding a spot’s a breeze. Book yourself a nice little nook to stay, pack your favorite book or camera, and bam! You’re all set for some ‘me time’.

How do I make a weekend getaway?

Revving up for a weekend getaway? Start by choosing a place that’s just a few hours away by car or a short flight. Book yourself a little escape pad—think Airbnb, boutique hotel, or why not a B&B? Then, just pick a couple of must-see or must-do things, pack your bags, and don’t forget your toothbrush—you’re about to make some memories!

What is the closest border town to Houston?

The closest border town to Houston is gonna be Brownsville, Texas. Just hit the road and drive due south for about six hours, and you’ll find yourself right up against the Mexican border, buddy! You can’t miss it.

What 5 states are close to Texas?

Texas is like a big comfy couch—it’s surrounded by pals. You’ve got New Mexico chillin’ to the west, Oklahoma perched up north, Arkansas hanging northeast, Louisiana lying east, and don’t forget Mexico down south!

Is $500 enough for a weekend trip?

$500 for a weekend trip? That’s definitely doable. Just keep your eye out for deals and keep it simple. Think road trip, Airbnb, and free activities. Pack your own snacks, buddy, and you’re golden!

How much should a 3 day vacation cost?

Three days of vacay bliss should cost? Eh, it’s a mixed bag, really. But plan on spending a few hundred bucks—think $300-700. The trick is to suss out the deals and manage your splurges. And remember, experiences over things…that’s the golden ticket!

What is a mini vacation?

A mini vacation is just like a short and sweet escape from the daily grind. Think of it as a weekend jaunt or even a day trip. Just a little something to recharge those batteries without breaking the bank or using up those precious vacation days.

What should I do on vacation alone?

When you’re vacationing alone, hit up activities that tickle your fancy. Museums, hikes, beach bumming, or bookshops—whatever floats your boat. And don’t be shy to dine solo or catch a movie. It’s your party, after all!

How do I vacation alone on a budget?

Vacationing alone on a budget means being a savvy solo traveler. Look for hostels or budget accommodations, love the local street food, and go where the wind takes you. Walk or use public transport, and you’ll save a bundle while you explore!

How do I make friends alone on vacation?

Making friends on vacation solo? Piece of cake! Just say ‘hello’ at hostels, join a tour, pop into a local class—yoga, cooking, whatever! Before you know it, you’ll be swapping stories with fellow wanderers and locals alike.

How do I plan a short trip?

To plan a short trip, just take a quick peek at the map and pinpoint a place a couple of hours away. Snag a booking, pick a few must-dos, pack light, and off you go—short, sweet, and super easy!

How do you enjoy a short trip?

Enjoying a short trip all about savoring the little things. Indulge in local eats, take a leisurely stroll, snap some pics, and let the day unfold. The beauty is in the breather from your usual hustles and bustles.

What is an unplanned getaway?

An unplanned getaway? That’s just a spontaneous jaunt where you toss caution to the wind, pack a bag, and head out with no set plans. It’s like throwing spaghetti at the wall and seeing what sticks—thrilling and utterly freeing!

Which country is closest to Texas?

The country smooching up to Texas? That’d be Mexico, partner. Just mosey on over the Rio Grande, and you’re there!

Which country is close to Texas USA?

Close to Texas USA, Mexico is knocking right at the door. Just a hop, skip, and a jump over the border, and you’re there for tacos and tequila!

What country is right next to Texas?

The country playing neighbor to Texas? That’s our amigo, Mexico, sitting pretty right next to us. You can’t miss it; just head south, and you’re set for a ‘hola’!

How far is Hong Kong from Houston?

Houston, Texas, to Hong Kong is quite the trek—about 8,000 miles as the crow flies. So grab a plane, and you’re in for a long-haul flight spanning roughly 16-18 hours. Time to rack up those frequent flyer miles!

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15 Unique Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Cincinnati

You won’t have to travel far in order to find some unique weekend getaways near Cincinnati!

After writing about the new Cannaley Treehouse Village in Toledo and the Covered Wagon rentals in Kentucky, I started to wonder if there were more “unique” spots within driving distance of Cincinnati.

And, WOW, did I uncover some great places for weekend getaways near Cincinnati! From staying the night in a shipping container to vintage RV’s to tiny cabins on the river…. I looked through the options at Airbnb (and a few other lodging spots) and found some really fun places to try.

Weekend Getaways Near Cincinnati:

Buffalo springs distilling company.

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Stamping Ground, KY; 100 miles away

Highlights from the Owners* : On the Bourbon Trail. The Buffalo Springs Distilling Company got it’s start in 1868. It closed and it’s warehouses were emptied out by the 1970’s. This building is one of the last structures left on the site. This historic building was the main office and gatehouse for visitors to the distillery, so we can offer one bedroom due to the size of the structure. Bourbon History buffs will love the opportunity to stay overnight in an old distillery building. This lodging has a large main room, fully equipped kitchen, a bedroom with a Queen bed, bathroom, and laundry area. There’s a City Park almost adjacent to the rear of the property and a family restaurant, stores, bank, post office, gasoline, and Police Station within walking distance.

Details : Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1bed; 1 bath

You might also like: 10 Relaxing and Romantic Getaways in Ohio

The Loft at Metamora – great for a weekend getaway!

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Metamora, Indiana; 60 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : The Loft at Metamora is a cozy, private getaway above a cafe and gift shop in a historic tourist town. The Loft at Metamora provides a private entrance, comfortable sleeping quarters, in room coffee and tea, and continental breakfast. A private full bath is included, with complimentary hand crafted soaps made on site.

The suite is a cozy loft space on the second floor of a barn-type building. The Loft suite offers a kitchenette with small refrigerator and microwave oven, toaster, and coffee maker.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom with 1 bed; sleeper sofa for children; 1 bath

The Farmhouse at Hotel Tango Farms

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Indianapolis, IN; 120 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: The Farmhouse has been newly renovated and is located right off I65 just a short drive to downtown Indianapolis. The house is situated on a 5 acre farm operated by Hotel Tango Artisan Distillery.

The home was built in the 1850’s and has been meticulously remodeled to highlight the rustic charm while giving guests all the modern comforts of home.

Details: Sleeps 8 guests; 3 bedrooms; 1 king, 1 queen,1 set of bunks, 1 full futon; 2.5 baths

Gladiola, A Tiny House on Wheels

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Logan, Ohio; 150 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Our Tiny Houses have that fun feeling, kinda like a tree house or cabin in a setting that allows you to enjoy the beautiful outdoors of the Hocking Hills. Inside the air-conditioned/heated tiny house, you can climb a ladder up to a loft bed for a different view, convert the sectional seating into a king sized sleeping area, make and eat dinner in the kitchen and dining area, and freshen up in the bathroom with walk-in shower, Separett composting toilet, and hot running water. So if you enjoy such adventurous and playful settings with close access to zip-lining, hiking, caving, canoeing/kayaking, or a number of other Hocking Hills attractions, our tiny house stays are a perfect fit for you!

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; open floor plan; 1 king (sectional converts into a bed) and 1 double bed (in the loft); 1 bath

The Artist’s A-Frame

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Madison, Indiana; 90 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Getaway and enjoy the comfort and convenience of this unique, newly remodeled A-Frame home nestled in a quiet, upscale neighborhood. minutes away from Clifty Falls State Park (10 min.) and Historic Downtown Madison (5 min.): recognized as “The prettiest small town in the Midwest” by Ladies Home Journal and “Best Preserved Town in the Midwest” by the Chicago Tribune.

Check out the reviews – at the time of this posting they have 55 “5 star” reviews (the highest you can get)!

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 1 bath

Shipping Container Chic – a truly unique weekend getaway!

Highlights from the Owners* : We are nestled on 13 acres of woods just 2 miles from the entrance of Old Man’s Cave right on 664 S in Logan Ohio. Inside we have a cozy bedroom with full view window, private bathroom /shower, full kitchen with cooktop, living room area with small dining table for 2, gas fireplace, YouTube TV, and WiFi. One of the coolest additions is our motorized glass garage door. Outside under a covered porch is a comfy outdoor swing bed, outdoor lights, a hot tub for two and a glass grill.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 double bed; 1 bath

Paws and Unwind: Pet Friendly with a Fenced Dog Area

Highlights from the Owners* : Paws & Unwind is dog and kid friendly. We are located just 1.7 miles from Old Man’s Cave… Paws & Unwind offers a furnished kitchen, towels, linens, propane grill, a Keurig and K-Cups, a drip coffee maker and filters, shampoo, conditioner, dish soap and basic paper goods. We have a cooler, backpack, 4 sets of trekking poles, and 4 pair of ice grippers for your shoes for use during your stay. For your dogs, we have a 12 ft x 20 ft fenced in area right off of the deck. We also have indoor and outdoor dog beds, and food and water bowls. There is a 4 ft x 2.5 ft dog crate. There is no size or breed restriction for your dogs. We just ask that they are well behaved and pick up after themselves! We are an unplugged destination. There is no Wi-Fi.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 1 bath

Ultimate Couples Getaway in a Barn

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Peebles, Ohio; 80 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Trade in the city for millions of stars in the night sky! Located on dead end road in the midst of scenic Brush Creek Forest! Front porch overlooks stocked spring-fed pond.

Details: Sleeps 5 guests; 2 bedrooms; 1 king bed and 3 singles plus an air mattress; 1 bath

Milk House Cottage

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Chesterhill, Ohio; 192 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Our Milk House Cottage and Gardens is nested in the historic village of Chesterhill, Ohio on 12 beautiful hilly scenic acres (in the heart of an “old world” Amish community). The Milk House Cottage has been totally redesigned into a beautifully modern space equipped with mini-split heating & AC, village water, a non-cooking kitchenette area in the interior porch sitting area.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 2 single beds; 1 bath

Carriage House in Downtown Indy

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati: Indianapolis, IN; 120 miles

Highlights from the Owners* : Fully modern and brand new private space in our charming carriage house. It has all the amenities you would need to enjoy and explore the beautiful city of Indianapolis. If you are here for work or pleasure, it is perfectly located and easy access to all Indy has to offer so come and explore our great city.

Details: Sleeps 2 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 queen bed; 1 bath (compost toilet)

A Tiny House Escape on 86 Acres in KY

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Augusta, Kentucky; 45 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Our backyard is 86 acres, and we are saving two of them just for you! Our Tiny House escape offers everything to set the tone for your “tiny get-a-way”, “big take-a-way”: Hidden along the creek, restored Kentucky farm venue, shared time in restored barn, social distancing, fire pit, stars. . OR. . . three miles to the sweet town of Augusta, right on the Ohio River– just a jaunt down the road for winery, shops, restaurants! Select “all” for the perfect vibe—make it you!

Details: Sleeps 3 guests; 1 bedroom; 1 queen,1 single; 1 bath

Alpine Chalet – Hocking Hills

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Logan, Ohio; 150 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Alpine – Hocking Hills is tucked into the woods near three other Chalets, on Blosser Road, convenient to Route 33 and the city of Logan. The closest state park is Lake Logan, 1.5 miles, a 5-minute drive. Old Man’s Cave is, 10 miles, a 15-minute drive… Connect with your friends or family, gathered around the beautiful slab-wood table in the spacious eat-in kitchen, on the hearth of wood-burning fireplace, out at the fire pit or in the hot tub on the porch. Beautiful log and slab hard-wood furniture, throughout, with exposed-beam walls and ceiling; hardwood floors; stone hearth. Two queen beds and two full baths, plus washer and dryer, upstairs – in rooms with charming dormer windows and cheery skylights.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 2 beds; 2 baths

Creekside Cabin on a Horse Farm – Lexington, Ky

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Lexington, Ky; 85 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Gorgeous N. Elkhorn Creek views from every room in this 1200 ft cabin on a private, gated horse farm. Your only neighbors are friendly horses! Wi/fi, SatTV/Netflix or enjoy wildlife viewing on the screened porch. Big Green Egg for grilling on the spacious deck. Fire pit and zipline. Living room/bedroom dual wood burning fireplace for chilly nights. Fully stocked granite kitchen. Kayaks available.

Details: Sleeps 4 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 2 baths

Lots of Room at the Jackie O’s Barrel Ridge Farm in Athens, Ohio

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Athens, Ohio; 175 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life on the Jackie O’s Barrel Ridge Farm! The perfect getaway for families with children and/or friends who want to reunite near Athens. With lots of natural light, this new 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath space sleeps 12 and has plenty of room for your group, including a chef’s kitchen with large dining table, 2nd floor living room, and tons of outdoor space with a hot tub, gas grill, fire pit, 2 ponds, several greenhouses and plenty of space to explore! … Take a peaceful stroll around the 20+ acre property and check out what’s growing. The greenhouses are home to vegetables and herbs served at the Jackie O’s Public House Restaurant, located in Uptown Athens. Surrounding the farm are fruit and nut trees, which are used in many of our small batch Brewpub beers.

Details: Sleeps 12 guests; 3 bedrooms; 7 beds; 2.5 baths

A Remote Cabin Getaway in Rising Sun, IN

Location and Approx. Distance from Cincinnati : Rising Sun, IN; 40 miles

Highlights from the Owners*: Welcome to our family’s 40-acre wooded property, Grace Woods. This historic cabin was built in 1806 with ties to the American frontiersman, Buffalo Bill – the perfect balance of rustic & modern. Updated amenities provide comfortable accommodations and allow you to relax in the outdoors. Access to pond, hiking trails, campfire, tree swings and zip line, plus more. Many guests visit the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum. Check our Guidebook for other local recommendations.

Details: Sleeps 6 guests; 2 bedrooms; 3 beds; 1 bath

* Please be sure to read the property’s complete details on the rental listing. We have not supplied the full list of details / descriptions here.

3 thoughts on “15 Unique Weekend Getaways Within 3 Hours of Cincinnati”

Brigitte, This is a great article. I am always looking for interesting places to get away to from Cincinnati. We have lived in Alberta, Minnesota, Connected and North Carolina and explored all of those regions, but have lived in Cincinnati now for 14 years and every one of the places on this list could be a new adventure. Thank you very much! Mike Crossen

You should check out the Murphin Ridge Inn in West Union, OH. It is a hidden treasure! It is one of our favorite getaway spots within an hour of Cincinnati. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!

Thanks for this great list of ideas!

Comments are closed.

• Things To Do / Fall Festivals & Activities / Guides for Kansas City / Spring Break Activities & Things to do / Travel & Family Vacations

24 Weekend Getaways, Road Trips & Day Trips from Kansas City

Sharing is caring!

If you’re looking for short road trips or fun day trips from Kansas City, there are great spots all over. We know you don’t want to drive too far…

But, there are easy weekend getaways nearby! Just a quick 3 (ish) hour road trip with the family. 

Whether you want to explore the outdoors, find mini vacation spots, or just find things to do in new cities, there are places for everyone to go. We hope your family enjoys these fun day trip ideas for kids! If you’re looking to stay closer to home, check out our Staycation Guide too!

Disclaimer : iFamilyKC is supported by its readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. THANK YOU!

We’re big fans of getting out of town for a few days…but where to go? How far can kids realistically ride in a car?  Kids can make it 3 or 4 hours, and then the questions begin and the movies get old. So we gathered the below list of destination ideas and resources for you!

Pro tips: keep the kids happy with their own travel snack boxes for the road. Grab some travel wipes to keep the messes at bay. Plus, any time you’re on a road trip, a dashcam is a great insurance policy.

Best Road Trips from Kansas City!

There are 24 fun road trips from Kansas City, all about a 3-hour drive. These vacation ideas are perfect for a weekend getaway near Kansas City:  

As you head out of town, you might consider having even a small simple security camera to keep an eye on things while you’re gone. Peace of mind, while you’re on your trip, is invaluable!

Day Trips from Kansas City

 If you’re looking for fun day trips from KC, or better yet a weekend adventure, this is for you! Get your family out of town… even if it’s just for a weekend trip! 

> Cave Springs

If you’re looking for a super close trip, Cave Springs is worth considering. Because it is located in Raytown, you can make it there in less than 30 minutes!

There is a small waterfall, hiking trails, and other fun things to explore – learn more now.

> Visit the Sunflowers

There are 14+ sunflower fields near KC that you can visit with your family. This is a short day trip from the metro, which is perfect if you have small children…

> Ha Ha Tonka State Park Day Trip

1491 State Road D, Camdenton, MO 65020

(2 hours, 41 minutes)

You can make this its own weekend getaway or stop by while you are in the Lake of the Ozarks area. Plus, the drive on the day trip from Kansas City is beautiful!

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located in the Lake of the Ozarks area. You can definitely make it one of the best weekend trips from Kansas City to the Ozarks.

Things to do at Haha Tonka:

There are lakes and trails, and you can head over to Branson for fun too! You can rent boats & jet skis at local marinas and swim till your hands turn pruney! If you like hiking or the outdoors in general, this state park is the place for you…  

One of the highlights is a turn-of-the-century castle built high on a bluff and more than 15 miles of walking trails. These trails lead to sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and of course the lake itself!

Just head down for the day and pack a lunch for a picnic or decide to make a camping trip out of it!

Where to Stay:

If you’re wanting to stay for the night, there are many choices that make a great overnight trip for families:

> Canoe, Float, or Paddle the Niangua River

Lebanon, MO & surrounding areas (many campsites & rentals)

(about 3 hours) (IF YOU WANT MORE FLOAT TRIP IDEAS WE’VE GOT THEM HERE)

Things to Do on the Niangua River:

Your family can canoe, kayak, float in inner tubes, or raft down the Niangua River! This fun road trip near Lake of the Ozarks is great if your family loves the outdoors or is looking for an adventure. 

There are many fun campgrounds, cabins, & hotels in the area, so it will definitely make a fun weekend trip. Explore the many campsites & rentals available like the Floating R or NRO , which has free camping options available. Big Bear River Resort offers adorable cabins, canoes, camping & great fishing spots too!

Food on the Niangua River:

Depending on where you start your float trip, you can stop at The Gravel Bar & Grill at the Sand Springs Resort .

This restaurant is right off the river, so you can walk from your canoe. It has basic American food, offering something for everyone in your family. They also offer lodging at the resort, so if you are looking for a place to stay and rent your canoes, this might be the spot!

This day trip location is a little further away, so you may want to stay overnight – especially if you spend all day paddling on the river! These are just one of many great options:

> Tanganyika Wildlife Park

1000 S. Hawkins Lane, Goddard, KS 67052

(3 hours, 8 minutes)

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is one of the most unique day trips from Kansas City. Not sure if it would be a day trip, since it is 3 hours, but could be a great weekend getaway in Kansas!  

It is a family-owned zoo with one of the largest animal collections in the state. There are over 40 exhibits, including several interactive stations for your kids to learn.

This is definitely a trip stop to add to your list.  

Tanganyika is the only place in the US where you can interact with ring-tail lemurs in their island habitat and feed Indian rhinos and pygmy hippos.

From most of the reviews that I read, it is a great place for younger kids —more animals in a smaller area to save their little legs (and grandparents too!)

There and back will be about 6 hours in total, so consider finding a place to stay for the night:

> Northwest Arkansas

Rogers, Fayetteville, Springdale

(3 hours, 15 minutes) If your family loves the outdoors, this is a great weekend getaway with your kids! 

Things to Do in NW Arkansas:

There are tons of great family things to do in Northwest Arkansas…not to mention the scenery! You can camp along the river, swim in the clear water, & have quality family time on your family’s vacation. Don’t forget to try canoeing while you are on the river!

There is the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks , Charlie & Willie George Park which features a fun spray park for the kids to cool off & TONS of great hiking. There are also unique things to do in NW Arkansas like, exploring the Dickson Street Bookshop or taking in a local museum.

You can visit the Museum of Native American History , Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , or the Museum of Discovery – a fantastic kids’ activity! Last but certainly not least, you have to check out the Walmart Museum.

There’s so much to see and do in Northwest AR. Visit:

Fayetteville, AR

Springdale, AR

Bentonville, AR

Best Food in NW Arkansas:

You also need to eat. So, be sure to check out Crepes Paulette – where you can watch your food be cooked – or The Farmer’s Table Cafe to try food created all by local Arkansas farmers. You can also take a little drive to try  Kyya Chocolate – unique chocolate that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

In Bentonville, AR try:

Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili :

1702 South Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712

The Buttered Biscuit

1403 SE MOBERLY LN,

BENTONVILLE AR, 72712

Smokin Joe’s Ribhouse

2504 E Central Ave

Bentonville, 72712

In Springdale, AR try:

Wagon Wheel Country Cafe

4080 N Thompson St.

In Rogers, AR try:

Monte Ne Chicken Inn

13843 E. Highway 94

Rogers, AR 72758

Big Orange Burgers, Salad, Shakes

2203 S Promenade Blvd Ste. 3100

In Fayetteville try:

Hugo’s

25 1/2 N Block Ave

Fayetteville, AR 72701

Penguin Ed’s

2 locations in Fayetteville!

Hammontree Grilled Cheese

326 N West Ave #8

Pro tip: passengers taking a break might enjoy a little travel pillow to snag a quick nap before their turn to drive again!

> Roaring River State Park

12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville, MO 65625

(3 hours, 17 minutes)

The Roaring River State Park is a great day trip from Kansas City when the weather is warm. You can also make it an overnight trip with camping if it’s a little further for you (Depending on what part of town you’re in) .

Things to Do in Roaring River:

There is so much nature to explore – it could fill your entire weekend! Trout fishing is obviously its biggest draw but there are great things to do and see for the whole family.  

The park is one of the premier trout fisheries in the nation and is stocked each night. There are also 7 trails that lead through the hills, including the Deer Leap trail that overlooks the fish hatchery. There are options to camp as well, including renting a cabin for the weekend.

> Eureka Springs, AR

(3 hours and 50 minutes)

Eureka Springs prides itself on its fabulous festivals. 

I personally love the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and have participated many times, but there are several more throughout the summer—just check to make sure they would be fun for the kids! It is the perfect place for a day or weekend trip from Kansas City!

Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR:

The city itself is nestled in the Arkansas hills and has great hiking & outdoor adventures.

Check out Lake Leatherwood for hiking, fishing, canoeing & more outdoor activities.

Downtown Eureka Springs is also a great stop; filled with shopping, restaurants & historic character. There are tons of eccentric shops and art galleries to explore too. You can always find good music in many areas of the city, especially during Blues Weekend.

Best Food in Eureka Springs:

Parkside Pretzel & Snack Bar has everything pretzel – pretzel dogs, pretzel churros…use your imagination! Their reviews are stellar & also feature some healthy options. Eureka Springs Funnel Cake Factory also needs to be on your list. If you’re looking for more dinner food, check out the Rockin’ Pig Saloon for yummy ribs & burgers, or Emilio’s Italian Home Cooking . This delicious Italian spot is located inside an old house, with a more upscale feel.   

Plan on staying the night in either The Crescent or The Basin Park Hotel . Both have their share of ghost stories, but their true draw is how they pull you into the vintage feel of the city. I have stayed at both but I don’t think got an ounce of sleep because the lights were always on and I was constantly checking under the bed!

At nearly 4 hours away from the city, you’ll want to stop for a good night’s rest before you head back to KC. Here are some of the closest options:

> Rent a Cabin Near Kansas City

(1-3 hours depending on the cabin)

There are many nice cabins near Kansas City, as well as in the city limits. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or a weekend getaway in the woods, these cabins are always a great idea!

Find large cabins for multiple families, or small cabin sites perfect for a small family trip.

> Branson

(3 hours or less)

Branson is one of the best road trips from Kansas City, because of the windy roads and beautiful scenery. So, start planning a fun weekend getaway.

Things to do in Branson, MO:

There are so many things to do in and around Branson it is mind-blowing; shopping at outlets , dining, amusement parks, go-karts, bumper cars & boats, duck rides, museums, Table Rock State Park has ALL the fun a lake can provide & everything in between!

You could spend a day or two at Silver Dollar City alone. You can grab a coupon book for the outlets too!

Be sure to check out shows like The SIX , Silver Dollar City , and the MASSIVE go-kart tracks! Your family is sure to find kids activities everyone will love.

With Table Rock Lake nearby so you can cool off too. Visit  Table Rock State Park , which has fantastic camping, fishing, boating & great swimming areas! The park is situated on one of the largest lakes in the country, so you are sure to get a beautiful view.  Find more things to do in Branson now!

Best Food in Branson, MO:

On your drive down, stop at Lambert’s , “home of the throwed rolls” in Ozark, MO. It is home cooking at its finest…while they throw rolls at you to eat! Cakes & Cream is one of our family’s favorites. It is a 50’s diner with more desserts than you could imagine. You can get many old classics there.

For the best shakes & homemade pies in town, stop at Billy Bob’s Dairyland . They feature tasty treats as well as yummy burgers & other diner food. (They also have amazing service…)

Branson offers tons of hotels and resorts , but there are also some gems through Airbnb that offer more privacy for families. There are beautifully redone farmhouses , modern cabins and log cabins available too!

> Amana Colonies Weekend Trip

622 46th Avenue Amana, IA 52203

(4 hours, 29 minutes) While this is longer than the 3-hour trips from Kansas City, the Amana Colonies have something for everyone. Plus, if you are looking for a weekend trip, going further away from home may be fun!

Things to Do at Amana Colonies:

The colonies host events each weekend, from a dog speed racers competition to woodworking festivals, so there is always something to do.

They celebrate a rich heritage in arts and crafts and take visitors away from the hustle and bustle of busy life…check it out for your next weekend trip out of KC.

In fact, The Wurst Festival , a celebration of all things sausage , was named the Best New Event of 2015 by the Iowa Tourism Commission.

There are many places to stay camping, bed, and breakfasts, and hotels nearby.

Best Food in Amana Colonies:

If you like German-American food, try the Ox Yoke Inn for fresh, handmade food. The restaurant dates back to the 1940s, so there are definitely delicious reasons it is still in business. Or, head to the Ronneburg Restaurant for another take on German cooking. Both restaurants are highly rated.   

There are surprisingly quite a few places to stay in and around the colonies. Check them out below:

> Topeka Day Trip

(45 minutes to an hour)

Even though Topeka is our state capital, most people haven’t explored it even though it is one of the best day trips from Kansas City! With Topeka less than an hour from most places in KC, it is a cheap getaway from Kansas City.

Things to do in Topeka, KS:

There are tons of fun things to do like the Topeka Zoo & Shawnee Lake . Check out our top 6 things to do with kids in Topeka . 

You can even climb to the TOP of the state capitol building , which we definitely recommend during your day trip. Tour reservations are not needed for groups of 10 or smaller. The spiral staircase winds right up the middle of the capitol dome, so don’t look down!

Best Food in Topeka, KS :

Bobo’s Diner is a Topeka classic – handmade onion rings, fries & burgers! They were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, so you know it’s delicious.

If Mexican is your fam’s jam, El Centenario makes homemade dishes every day. If the kiddos are all in on awesome grilled cheese sandwiches. and mom & dad like craft beer, The Wheel Barrel is a must. They’re located in the NOTO Arts District and are famous for their gourmet grilled cheese & selection of craft beers. You can’t go wrong with anything on your list. 

If you decide to make a weekend of it, there are some family-friendly spots to stay:

> Roadtrip to Des Moines, IA

(2.5 hours – 3 hours)

While Des Moines isn’t the most attractive city to visit, there are tons of things to do with kids in Des Moines. Plus, the drive is manageable for a weekend trip or getaway. 

Things to Do in Des Moines, IA :

Explore Adventureland Themepark , which includes an outdoor waterpark, a theme park, and indoor pools. Or, your family can check out the Science Center of Iowa , where learning is brought to life.

Don’t miss Iowa’s wildest adventure at  Blank Park Zoo  or find fun things to do outside like Gray’s Lake Park, the Living History Farms , or the Iowa State Fairgrounds (if you can make the trip during the Iowa State Fair ).

There’s also the State Capitol Building you can tour and the downtown Des Moines farmer’s market – rated the 2nd best farmer’s market in America

There are fun kids’ activities here that make learning fun! There are also areas with tons of room to play, like Pappajohn Sculpture Park or the Des Moines Botanical Gardens . The sculpture park is a great place for kids to play while enjoying the artwork…plus it’s free!

You can also enjoy some yummy ice cream at Black Cat Ice Cream , just across the street from the sculpture park.

> Wichita, Kansas Day Trip

(3 hours, 20 minutes)

Things to do in Wichita, KS:

Wichita is home to the Museum of World Treasures , which has an extensive World War II collection as well as shrunken heads, dinosaurs, ancient Egyptians, and everything in between.

The Exploration Place , a science education center, is also filled with fun kids’ activities and things to do. Your kids will explore a variety of hands-on activities & exhibits…think of it as the Science City of Wichita. Check out the Exploration Place calendar of events to see what’s happening while you are there.  

There is also the Sedgwick County Zoo , the Botanical Gardens of Wichita , and the Cowtown Museum , which has FREE admission on Sundays from noon to 5 pm. Also, be sure to visit the Keeper of the Plains statue !

Wichita also has its’ own amusement park, All-Star Adventures ! There are go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, slides, kiddie copters, a driving range, and other fun family activities. You can find other fun things to do with kids in Wichita easily too!

If you are looking for other fun things to do near Wichita, KS check out the Wildlife Park below!

Best Food in Wichita, KS:

If you’re looking for yummy places to eat be sure to check out Dempsey’s Biscuit Co or Piatto for delicious pizzas. Also, be sure to check out the world’s largest mural painted by a single artist – Horizontes.   For an old-fashioned loose-meat burger and house-made root beer stop into Nuway ! The kids will love it.

Depending on where you’re planning on exploring, there are great options all over the city:

> Meade, KS

(camping, dalton gang hideout & state park).

502 S Pearlette Street, Meade, Kansas

If you’re into history, this is a small town worth visiting. The Dalton Gang Hideout was the home of Eva Whipple, the sister of the Dalton Gang outlaw group. A hidden tunnel was discovered to hide the gang members.

It’s now considered a Kansas tourist attraction, where you can tour the home and the tunnel (reconstructed version). There is also a historical museum!

In addition to the history, there is a beautiful state park – Meade State Park . There is a 360-acre area filled with wildlife, as well as campsites and a lake.

You can camp or fish at the lake with your family to enjoy the great outdoors!

If you don’t want to tent camp, there are other places in the area to stay overnight:

> Omaha Road Trip

(2 hours, 40 minutes)

Omaha, Nebraska is even shorter than a 3-hour trip from Kansas City. Close enough that you can handle the drive but far enough away that it feels like a getaway…

Things to Do in Omaha, NE:

Take advantage of this fun & inexpensive city with these things to do with kids. There is the famous Henry Doorly Zoo , the Wildlife Safari Park , the Aerospace Museum, The Omaha Children’s Museum, the Rose Theater , & tons of free things to do throughout the year. Admission to the Joslyn Art Museum is always free!

There are also beautiful state parks like The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park , which features a suspended ropes course in the trees. There is also a pool, wave pool, splash park, horse riding, mini golf & disc golf, Venture Climb rock climbing & other unique activities. This park has more to do than almost any we have seen…

Best Food in Omaha:

You can also find tons of great restaurants like Mayne Street Market , Yoshitomo (if your fam likes sushi), Hurry Bird (for some creative, delicious breakfast and lunch burritos), or Johnny’s Cafe for delicious food near the old stockyards!

> St. Louis Road Trip

(3 to 3 and a half hours)

Depending on where you are road-tripping from in Kansas City, St. Louis isn’t that far. There are too many things to do with kids in St. Louis for just one day, so make a weekend road trip out of the day trip!

Things to Do in St. Louis:

You can explore the St. Louis Gateway Arch , World Bird Sanctuary , St. Louis Aquarium (the perfect place for kids), Magic House Children’s Museum , and many other kids’ activities. Take a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Gardens, which features a beautiful Japanese garden.

Or, check out Forest Park , which is larger than New York’s Central Park!

Check out our St. Louis Road Trip guide for more ideas of things to do in St. Louis. You could fill an entire weekend trip with these ideas!

Best Food in St. Louis:

If you check out the arch in the morning, be sure to try Chili Mac’s Diner !

Crown Candy is definitely worth a visit. This is a century-old Soda Fountain restaurant that is a St. Louis classic. You will feel like you stepped back in time to 1913 as soon as you step in their doors.

After you try their candy, ice cream & delicious food…it’s game over. Their hearty BLT is stacked to the brim (overflowing really…) with yummy bacon! There are also some delicious donuts at O’Fashion Donuts . Head to The Hill and enjoy some great Italian food at the many restaurants located there.

> Roadtrip to Joplin

(2 hours, 30 minutes)

Things to Do in Joplin, MO:

There are tons of fun things to do in Joplin during your day trip from KC! You can visit a giant waterfall – Grand Falls , George Washington Carver National Monumen t , or walk around downtown Joplin . The Sunshine Lamp District is even named after Joplin’s booming mining days, so you’ll be trendy while walking through history!

There are cute stores to shop, yummy restaurants to try, & even an indoor adventure playground for the kiddos. You can also visit the winery if it’s more of an adult-only road trip! 

Best Food in Joplin:

If BBQ is your thing, you can’t miss Big R’s BBQ & Pies . The locals love this spot for its great BBQ and you can finish off with one of their great pies, so you don’t want to skip this spot!

The Red Onion Cafe is located in a 100-year-old building & highly rated across the board. They serve American food in a relaxed setting – be sure to try the Smoked Chicken Dip! 

> Columbia, MO

(2 hours, 10 minutes)  

Things to Do in Columbia, MO:  

At MU, you can visit the Museum of Art & Archaeology or the Francis Quadrangle , with giant pillars towering overhead. Or, check out the Columbia Art League in downtown Columbia.  Besides visiting The University of Missouri, there are other fun things to do with kids like nature parks.

If your family likes the outdoors, there are many great parks & hiking trails like Rock Bridge Memorial State Park , Finger Lakes State Park , Stephens Lake Beach & Park , or Capen Park .

Finger Lakes State Park is probably the most unique thing you can do, with trails for ATVs, motorbiking, & four-wheelers. There is also a lake where you can go scuba diving, swimming, fishing & non-motorized boating. You can rent kayaks & canoes at the park, so all you have to bring is your family!  

Also visit the Shelter Gardens , a 5-acre botanical garden that is perfect to take a stroll…  

Best Food in Columbia, MO:  

If you’re looking for healthy options, try the Main Squeeze Natural Foods Cafe , which is rated very highly.  If you’re in the mood for good-old deliciousness, try Just Jeff’s Street Food , they have two locations.

They supposedly have the best chili dogs in all of Columbia. Addison’s is also a yummy place to try. Their nachos are our favorite!  You can’t go wrong by stopping for a pizza at Shakespeare’s Pizza, a Columbia tradition since 1973 with 3 locations.

> Eagles Bluff Conservation Area

Columbia, MO 65203

(2 hours, 6 minutes)

If you’re looking to get away from the city…this is the place for you. There are miles and miles of nature to be explored – the perfect place for a nature weekend getaway. Plus, the shorter drives make this one of our favorite day trips from Kansas City…  

There is the Katy Trail State Park , which provides trails to bike, hike, or even ride horses! You can also explore other regions of the conservation area with fishing, hiking trails, camping, bird watching & other fun outdoor activities. 

> Rock City

1051 Ivy Road Minneapolis, KS 67467

(2 hours, 49 minutes)

About 20 miles away from Salina, there are giant spherical rocks, formed when Kansas was under an ocean. There are over 200 rocks you can explore!   You have a couple of options.

1. Rock City is the larger of the 2 attractions, with close to 200 rock formations, but costs $3.

2. Mushroom Rock State Park , which is smaller, is free to the public. If your children love to run around or climb on things, this is a fun place to explore. Check out the website to see cool pictures of mushroom rocks !     

> Go on a Safari

124 Jungle Drive, Strafford, MO 65757

Looking for more unique day trips from Kansas City? This safari is just minutes away from Springfield, MO. (See our Springfield Guide below). How about a wildlife excursion…it’s a drive-thru animal safari in the middle of Missouri! There are over 450 animals for your family to come to visit. 

While there is not a ton to do, the Safari is definitely a unique experience that makes it worth the day trip drive from Kansas City. Make it a short getaway with an overnight stay for the family all together!

> Atchison, KS

Because Amelia Earhart was born in Atchison, you can learn about her at the Amelia Earhart Museum , at her birthplace. Also, visit the Atchison County Historical Society Museum located in the historic 1880 Santa Fe Depot. Check out the Atchison Rail Museum .

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, hang out at Jackson Park or cross the Missouri River and visit the Lewis & Clark State Park . 

Where to eat:

Grab a sandwich at one of these yummy stops: Mr. G’s , JW Boy’s BBQ , or Willie’s Sports Pub . You can’t go wrong.

> Springfield, MO

(2 hours 40 minutes)

Things to Do:

Shop the original, and one of the largest, Bass Pro Shops ! Explore the incredible caves of the Ozarks or go on a safari at The Wild Animal Safari in nearby Stafford, MO.

Find your favorite style of cashew chicken at one of these places on the official Cashew Chicken Trail.

Step back in time on Route 66 and grab a burger at Red’s Giant Hamburg or eat at a classic diner like Casper’s .

Use these Tips for Traveling with Kids to pass the time faster and make your road trip more enjoyable. There are fun car games & tips to keep your family safe. 

Looking for other fun places to stay near Kansas City?

• Lake Cabins Near KC
• Tent Glamping
• Treehouse Cabin Near Leavenworth
• Large Rentals for Multi-Families or Groups

If you can’t get out of KC, check out:

• Cave Springs in Raytown
• Our favorite playgrounds ( & have a picnic )
• Have a  Downtown KC Staycation Guide
• Explore the Best Things to Do in Kansas City with kids .

Pro tip: make your driver comfy for these family road trips. We love these beaded seat covers to keep you cool and comfortable.

What are some of your favorite places to visit near the metro? Let us know in the comments!

If you want to stay up to date, click below to join THE SCOOP! Get it delivered right to your inbox!

From our family to yours, iFamilyKC

Tags: Branson Gladstone Joplin Liberty Omaha Raytown Springdale Springfield

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

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

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

Stowe, Vermont

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

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

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

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

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

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

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

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

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

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

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

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

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

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

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

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

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

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

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

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

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

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

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

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

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

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

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

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

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

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

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

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

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

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

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

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

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

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

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

Read Reviews Congress Hall

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

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

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33 Driveable Weekend Getaways from Pittsburgh to Get Out of the City (+ A Map!)

Pittsburgh is a great city with so many things to do all year. But, sometimes, you want to get out and explore some other places. It’s okay. We understand!

Where should you venture when you want a getaway from Pittsburgh?

There are SO MANY options, all within just a few hours’ drive from the city.

What makes us experts? Well, we both grew up in western Pennsylvania, just outside of Pittsburgh. We’ve explored most of these locations more times than we can count over the years, so we feel great about sharing each of these recommendations with you.

What type of destination or weekend trip are you looking for? There is something in this list that could be tailored to just about any desire. Here are some great ideas for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh .

➡️Just Want The Highlights? Our Top Recommendations:

• Best for Exploring the Outdoors: Pine Creek Gorge ; Cuyahoga Valley National Park ; Dolly Sods ; Hocking Hills
• Small Town Getaways: Lancaster, PA ; Jamestown, NY
• Explore Another City: Buffalo, NY ; Baltimore, MD
• A Girls’ Weekend in Wine Country: Geneva, OH ; Finger Lakes, NY
• History Buff’s Getaway: Gettysburg ; Washington DC
• Best Relaxing Weekend Getaway: Bedford Springs

What Makes a Good Weekend Trip from Pittsburgh?

We think that a good weekend trip requires no more than 4-5 hours of driving . Typically, with those on the longer end of this range, we’d even recommend a long weekend of at least 3 days.

Anything shorter than 1.5 hours could be explored in a day trip , but this list includes a wide variety of locations and distances. Hopefully, it will at least inspire a starting point for your next weekend getaway.

One thing we really like about many of these places to visit near Pittsburgh is that they can be enjoyed any time of the year.

These destinations are all driveable, and for most of them, having a car to get around once you’re there is a good idea.

Compiling this list was seriously tough! It became overwhelming when we sat down to think of all the great places within only a few hours’ drive from the city. Basically, we could have had 50+ spots here with great reasons to visit each one.

Best Weekend Trips from Pittsburgh

Stay in the State of Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is full of places to see and things to do. Check out some of these spots, some very well-known and some more off the beaten path.

1. The Laurel Highlands

Drive Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Distance: 70 miles

The Laurel Highlands is a scenic, mountainous region in Western Pennsylvania that’s perfect for a weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.  The drive time is only about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and the area offers plenty of things to do.

The star of the show in the Laurel Highlands is definitely Ohiopyle State Park . Discover beautiful waterfalls , and hike great trails like Jonathan Run and the Ferncliff Loop.

In addition to Ohiopyle, other great state parks nearby include Laurel Hill and Laurel Ridge.

Ohiopyle is also a popular whitewater rafting destination close to Pittsburgh.

Book an adventurous Whitewater Rafting Trip in Ohiopyle!

The tallest point in the state of Pennsylvania is located nearby in the Laurel Highlands: Mount Davis. If you’re trying to visit the tallest point in this or every state, this is a must-visit.

During the winter months, we think Seven Springs is a great place to satisfy your winter sports adventures on the mountain. You can ski, snowboard, or tube your way down the mountain.

Drive Time: 2 hours Distance: 128 miles

Erie is a great place to visit for a getaway weekend.  It’s located in the very northwestern corner of Pennsylvania, and it’s only about 2 hours from Pittsburgh! Erie has plenty of things to do and see during every season.

The city has a rich history with ties to Lake Erie that dates back centuries. Enjoy the historic tall ships or millionaires’ row of mansions right downtown.

Outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, and boating are great ways to enjoy Presque Isle State Park and nearby Erie Bluffs State Park .

Stay for the sunset at Presque Isle and watch from one of the park’s beaches. We think it’s easily one of the best places to watch a sunset in the Great Lakes region .

If you’re looking for some indoor fun, enjoy the Erie Art Museum, shop at the Millcreek Mall, or catch a show at Kellar’s comedy club and magic bar. Some pretty big names have performed on the small stage at Kellar’s.

Have you Pittsburghers heard of Billy Gardell? We’ve seen him at Kellar’s.

After spending the day exploring, visit one of the many great local restaurants. There are so many options that it’s hard to go wrong. Some of our favorite spots include The Cork, BrewErie, and Pineapple Eddie’s, among others. These are just a few!

3. Pine Creek Gorge

Drive Time: 4 hours Distance: 228 miles

The Pine Creek Gorge is the jewel of the northern part of the state. It’s an amazingly scenic and diverse destination. It’s an under-the-radar weekend trip from Pittsburgh!

The star attraction in this region is sandwiched between Colton Point and Leonard Harrison State Parks. It’s the gorge with the river below, known as the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon .

Hiking, biking, boating, and backpacking are all popular things to do in the area. You’ll want to spend all day exploring and enjoying the many trails and views. The West Rim Trail in the PA Grand Canyon is one of our favorite weekend backpacking trails in Pennsylvania at about 30 miles long.

The area is also filled with small towns, great places to eat, spots for shopping, and outdoor activities like kayaking.

Visit nearby Hills Creek State Park for more hiking and water adventures in the park’s lake. In the winter, you’ll see plenty of ice fishing happening out on the lake.

4. Gettysburg

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 185 miles

Located only about 3 hours and 30 minutes away from Pittsburgh, Gettysburg has a lot to offer, and it’s worth the drive. You’ll find all sorts of things to do in Gettysburg, and it’s a perfect destination for history buffs.

Check out sites like the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and the History Center. Then go out and explore the battlefields for a window into the events that occurred during the Battle of Gettysburg in the Civil War.

We learned so much by playing the virtual tour videos from the NPS at each stop through the battlefields drive.

There are also plenty of places to go hiking nearby, including Pine Grove Furnace and Caledonia State Parks. Take a nighttime ghost tour if you’re into the paranormal.

Other things to do in Gettysburg include shopping and visiting wineries! So many quaint little shops with unique items are scattered throughout the streets of the town.

Gettysburg is definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a weekend getaway, although you can certainly spend more than just a weekend exploring!

5. State College

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 136 miles

State College is a great driveable spot near Pittsburgh with a more small-town feel. This university town still offers all sorts of fun for both visitors and locals.

Whether it’s exploring the historic sites or grabbing some grub at one of the many restaurants, there is something to do in State College every day of the week. We always make sure to stop at the Berkey Creamery for some delicious ice cream when we’re in town.

Outdoor activities are popular, too. Wander through the arboretum at Penn State or hike up Mount Nittany . Play a round of golf at one of the beautiful courses. Take a tour through Penn’s Cave . There are even a few spots nearby for afternoon wine tasting.

Visit during particular fall weekends, and you’ll see the town transform. Football games are a big deal in these parts, and people come from far and wide to cheer on their Nittany Lions. So much so, that on these weekends, State College turns into one of the largest cities in Pennsylvania. It’s definitely a sports experience you should have at some point in your life.

On top of that, this small town has a lot to offer when it comes to shopping and entertainment. For those who love culture and art, don’t miss out on visiting any museums or galleries.

6. Benezette & Elk County

Drive Time: 2 hours 30 minutes Distance: 129 miles

Benezette is a small town about 2.5 hours from Pittsburgh, and there are plenty of things to do for visitors. This is certainly a more laid-back escape than some of the others on this list.

One of the best attractions in Benezette is seeing elk! Elk roam free on the hillsides surrounding the town, and it’s a great opportunity to see these large animals in a natural setting on the east coast.

Plan this as a fall getaway when the leaves are changing and the elk are in the rut. You’ll be in for a real treat.

Hike the nearby state forest trails, and you might get even closer to them, but not too close! Always maintain 100 yards between you and the elk for yours and the animals’ safety.

You can also enjoy some fishing or take a scenic drive through the area if that’s what you prefer!

7. Lancaster

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Lancaster, PA is a historic and charming area located about three hours and fifty minutes from Pittsburgh. Lancaster offers plenty of things to do for visitors and locals alike, but life’s pace is much slower than that in the city.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities like hiking or fishing, or indoor fun at the museums, there is something for everyone in Lancaster!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste the local flavors of Pennsylvania Dutch cooking. You’ll never go hungry here with this delicious home cooking.

Take an Amish Immersion Tour to Learn More About the Pennsylvania Dutch Culture in Lancaster!

Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine is a mixture of German and Dutch elements. These foods emphasize meat, potatoes, cornbreads/biscuits, cabbage dishes with pork or beef sausages; fresh loaves of bread; apple pies; pretzels; and scrapple.

8. The Poconos

Drive Time: 4 hours 30 minutes Distance: 279 miles

If you’re looking for a more adventurous weekend getaway, the Poconos are a great option! This area is located about four hours and thirty minutes from Pittsburgh.

It’s quite a large area, so you could easily spend a long weekend exploring the Poconos and still not do everything you want.

Outdoor activities include hiking, biking, watersports, and golfing during the summer. Check out the nearby Ricketts Glen State Park Waterfall Trail for a real treat! There are over 20 waterfalls along the trail.

You can also enjoy some time at the casino or take a trip to one of the area’s many water parks. Indoor fun includes visiting the various museums and theaters or simply relaxing at the spa. In the winter, it is a ski and snowboard destination.

A trip to the Poconos is truly an adventure, whether you prefer relaxing or being active. While it is a little further drive, it is well worth the time and effort.

Drive Time: 50 minutes Distance: 33 miles

If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, Butler County may be just what you need to explore. Although it’s one of the closest destinations on this list, and you might be wondering why it made the cut, there are plenty of hidden gems here.

About fifty minutes or so from Pittsburgh to the north, there are plenty of outdoor activities as well as indoor fun. Hiking is plentiful in nearby McConnells Mill and Moraine State Parks . Sections of the North Country Trail travel right through both parks.

Shopping and dining options give you some variety that is different from the city. A few craft breweries, wineries, and local restaurants serve up delicious treats.

Numerous festivals are held in Butler every year, too. The Bantam Jeep Heritage Festival attracts Jeep enthusiasts from all over the country to the area for a weekend of on and off-road fun. I love my ’97 TJ and make it a point to attend every year.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that doesn’t require a lot of time, driving, or effort to reach, heading just north to Butler County is an easy trip.

10. Philadelphia

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 304 miles

Philadelphia is such a historic city with plenty to do, whether you plan to spend a week or one day in Philadelphia . It’s also the place where American independence was first declared, so history has a big influence on the city’s culture.

Museums, dedicated to different varieties of art, history, or oddities are scattered throughout the city! The Mütter Museum is one of the strangest museums we’ve ever been to, but those fascinated by the human body may also find it interesting.

Stop by Independence Hall where the founding fathers debated and signed some of the most important documents in US history, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence. After, take a short walk to the famous Liberty Bell.

Take a Walking Tour of the historic Old City with a guide to be sure that you don’t miss any of the most notable sites during your visit!

Those interested in crime will enjoy a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary. Wander the eerie passageways on a self-guided tour where notorious criminals like Al Capone were once locked away. We found the audio tour that comes with your entrance ticket really interesting!

In addition to all these wonderful attractions, the area also has a lot of restaurants where you can taste local flavors. The Philly Cheesesteak war is alive and well. While Geno’s and Pat’s are the most famous, they’re not the only places to grab these sandwich staples.

Before leaving the City of Brotherly Love, visit the Museum of Art and run up the stairs made famous in “Rocky.”

➡️ Pro Tip: If you’re able to plan a visit on Independence Day weekend like we have, you may be lucky enough to sit on the museum stairs and catch the movie being played under the stars.

11. Delaware Water Gap

Drive Time: 4 hours 50 minutes Distance: 299 miles

The Delaware Water Gap is an ideal destination if you are looking to explore the outdoors. The area features caves, waterfalls, hiking trails, wildlife viewing areas, and many other outdoor attractions.

The Delaware River forms a natural border between Pennsylvania and New Jersey at this location, which also makes it a great spot for fishing or canoeing on the river.

The area is so beautiful that many are hoping that the national recreation area will soon be upgraded to national park status, becoming Pennsylvania’s first.

We had a fantastic time sipping on a drink at the Glass Wine Bar in the Ledges Hotel. Make sure you request a table with a view of the waterfall!

We had an early reservation for a drink and appetizers and then drove the 30 minutes back to Raymondskill Falls. The restaurant wasn’t as busy, and we had Raymondskill to ourselves.

12. Cherry Spring State Park

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 182 miles

Cherry Spring State Park is a perfect destination for visitors who want to enjoy some relaxing time outdoors. It’s a great space to get “off the grid.”

This park is a true destination for stargazers. It’s known as the darkest spot on the eastern seaboard. The park is situated far away from any big cities, light pollution, and traffic; all of which make it the perfect place for seeing the Milky Way, among other things.

Cherry Springs also offers educational programs throughout the summer to help visitors learn more about astronomy and the night sky.

You’ll need to book a campsite far in advance for any big events such as eclipses or meteor showers. There aren’t a ton of campsites, and they can book up quickly, and they’re definitely rustic.

Trails in the surrounding state forest are great for mountain biking and hiking. Although the only overnight options within the park are rustic tenting options, check out Airbnb or VRBO for private cabin and home rentals near the park.

13. Hershey

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 215 miles

Hershey, Pennsylvania is a small town near the heart of Amish country. For those who are thrill-seekers, there is plenty to do. The amusement park is a main attraction for tourists.

Next door, the Hershey Story Museum & Chocolate World offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Milton S. Hershey’s chocolate empire and how it has grown to include popular brands like Reese’s, Twizzlers, Almond Joy, Mr. Goodbar, and many more.

Five-pound Hershey chocolate bars exist and are sold here. I know. I got one!

You can also take a guided tour, which is more of an experience through the Chocolate World with animations and songs.

Enjoy some shopping or play a round of golf if the weather permits. There are several hotels and motels close to the Hershey area, including one right next to Hersheypark.

14. Bedford Springs

Drive Time: 1 hour 45 minutes Distance: 108 miles

The Bedford Springs Resort is a historic property that was established in 1806. The resort is centered around healing mineral springs that were discovered in 1796. In those times, it was a destination for city dwellers who would vacation to get away from the pollution and hustle and bustle of city life.

It was completely renovated and restored, then opened back to the public in 2007. Let me tell you, this property is a hidden gem in south-central Pennsylvania. We were pleasantly surprised with what we discovered staying at the resort.

The 300-acre property features a spa, fed by a mineral spring, which pays homage to the original purpose of the property. Indulge in a “Bedford Bath” which is the signature treatment here, alternating hot and cold baths with steam from the springs, too.

This is a great weekend getaway where you can indulge in relaxation, but there are also onsite hiking trails, bike rentals, and golf. An outfitter on site can help book fishing trips in the area.

Getaways from Pittsburgh in the Neighboring States

Pittsburgh is within just a couple hours’ drive to multiple other states. There are plenty of options when considering weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, so don’t be afraid to get outside the city and the state.

Access to many spots in Ohio is just a short drive away. Although some rivalry exists between residents of the two states, that shouldn’t deter you from considering a visit!

15. Cleveland

Drive Time: 2 hours 15 minutes Distance: 133 miles

While some Pittsburghers may roll their eyes or shake their head any time Cleveland is mentioned, it’s an enjoyable spot to visit for a weekend. At just over 2 hours from Pittsburgh, it’s an easily accessible drive for just a short visit.

Cleveland’s downtown features an impressive skyline of high-rises, fun restaurants, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. For music lovers, this place is a must-visit!

Cleveland also has the closest NBA professional basketball team in the Cavaliers, if you’re looking for a different sport to watch that isn’t offered in Pittsburgh.

There are so many great restaurants, bars, and breweries to visit, too, scattered all over town. Don’t just head down East 4th Street. Check out Tremont or Ohio City, The Flats, and other hotspots around town.

And, if you’re a beer lover, Cleveland has an impressive list of breweries to visit, many of which offer samples or tours. We love Noble Beast, Masthead, Terrestrial… We could go on!

16. Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Drive Time: 1 hour 50 minutes Distance: 112 miles

Who knew a national park was so close and accessible? Even if the Delaware Water Gap becomes a national park, this one is closer! Cuyahoga Valley is a newer and lesser-known national park, but there are some beautiful spots to check out.

Brandywine Falls should be one of your first stops, and then hike along some of the fantastic trails, including a section of the Buckeye Trail. Take a ride on the train, especially if you’re visiting during the fall when the leaves are at their peak.

The Towpath Trail is a popular spot for bicyclists. The trail, which follows the Ohio & Erie Canal currently for 87 miles, is mostly flat and makes for an easy ride. It will be 101 miles long when it’s all finished!

The trail offers great views of the Cuyahoga River and the surrounding landscape, as well as some information about the historical significance of the canal way.

All of these sites certainly make Cuyahoga Valley National Park worth visiting on a weekend from Pittsburgh.

17. Nelson Ledges

Drive Time: 1 hour 35 minutes Distance: 92 miles

Nelson Ledges is a great place to explore the natural rock formations that make up the park. Hike, swim, bike, snorkel, camp, or find another activity that gets you excited to be outdoors. The possibilities here are nearly endless!

Check event schedules. The park is sometimes home to arts festivals and musical events on its 250 acres of land.

If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, take a walk along one of the nature trails or enjoy a picnic lunch.

There are also two fishing lakes in the park if you’d like to relax by the water. Just be sure to check with the park staff about fishing regulations before you start casting your line.

18. Put-in-Bay

Drive Time: 3 hours 50 minutes Distance: 202 miles

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway with both a party atmosphere and spots to find some solitude, Put-in-Bay is the perfect spot. Just a few hours from Pittsburgh, this island offers plenty to do and see.

The town is situated on South Bass Island in Lake Erie. You’ll have to take a ferry to get to the island.

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore in town. Rent a golf cart for a fun way to get around town. You can also visit some of the historical sites or take a boat tour of the area.

If you’re looking for something more active, there are plenty of bike trails or golf courses to check out. And don’t forget about the beaches! Put-in-Bay has some of the best beaches around for swimming and enjoying Lake Erie.

19. Hocking Hills

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 193 miles

Hocking Hills is a favorite destination in the region for a number of reasons. It’s one of the most popular state parks in Ohio. Things to do in Hocking Hills include canyoneering, rafting, and hiking through the scenic landscape of rock formations, cliffs, and waterfalls.

The area can get quite busy during the summer, so consider visiting the Hocking Hills hiking trails during the winter for a different experience. Just make sure that you have the appropriate gear.

The trails can get really icy and dangerous! We definitely needed our Kahtoola microspikes , especially on the Old Man’s Cave and Rock House trails.

In addition to the great outdoors, the town has a number of places worth checking out. Take a ride around the area, visit some of the antique stores, or stop at the winery for an afternoon of tasting.

For overnight stays, there are soooo many cabins throughout the area with great amenities like game rooms, hot tubs, and beautiful fireplaces. Many pet-friendly cabins and hiking trails allow dogs in Hocking Hills , making this a great place to get away with your pups.

Pro Tip: Cell phone service can be extremely limited in many spots, even at some of the cabins that we’ve stayed at. Make sure you have paper maps and plan your trip ahead of time. You don’t want to risk missing things you’d like to do because you don’t have wifi or cell service.

Drive Time: 2 hours 20 minutes Distance: 138 miles

Geneva, Ohio is a small town with a big heart. The wine country of northeast Ohio has been growing and thriving. It’s home to beautiful scenery, delicious food & drink, outdoor adventure opportunities…the list goes on!

Geneva is home to more than just vineyards. It’s also the perfect place to visit if you want the best of both worlds: a weekend spent exploring or relaxing- all without having to travel too far from Pittsburgh.

Check out some of the beautiful covered bridges of Ashtabula County. There are 19 of them around the county.

Spend your time wandering “the Strip” for a carnival-like atmosphere during the summer months or get out and get active at the state park. Then, enjoy the wine! One of my personal favorites is Laurello’s.

Stay at the Lakehouse Inn in Geneva-on-the-Lake to be within walking distance of the Strip and enjoy epic lakefront views.

21. Sandusky

Drive Time: 3 hours Distance: 182 miles

Cedar Point Amusement Park is a world-famous amusement park located in Sandusky, Ohio. It’s home to some of the tallest and fastest roller coasters in the world, as well as a variety of other rides and attractions.

You could absolutely spend an entire weekend in Sandusky visiting the beach on Lake Erie, checking out Cedar Point, and exploring the shopping and restaurants in town. There’s so much to see and do in the region.

This would be a great weekend getaway for families, especially with older children. Park entrance fees can be on the pricey side, but buying multi-day passes does give some discount.

Sharing a lot of the southern border of Pennsylvania, Maryland is home to a couple of weekend getaway destinations from Pittsburgh.

22. Deep Creek Lake

Drive Time: 2 hours 10 minutes Distance: 103 miles

Just over two hours away, this lake offers plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay. You can go fishing, boating, swimming, or hiking on the trails around the lake during the summer.

Wisp Resort in the area is a great winter destination for skiers and snowboarders. The resort is on the smaller side but offers slopes for all levels of skiers and a terrain park for the more adventurous.

There are also restaurants and shops in and around the town of McHenry if you need to take a break from all the outdoor activities, or stay in and just spend a weekend relaxing in one of the lakeside cottages.

23. Baltimore

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 248 miles

Baltimore is a city with a rich history, both as an industrial port and as the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner. But today, Baltimore’s many charms extend to its diverse restaurants and neighborhoods, world-class museums and art galleries, beautiful parks, and waterfront promenade. It’s also home to world-class universities like Johns Hopkins.

Some must-sees include The National Aquarium, which showcases millions of gallons of water-filled tanks with thousands of different species of aquatic life from around the world. You can explore the Atlantic coral reef or get up close with sharks in Shark Alley.

Baltimore is also home to the famous Inner Harbor, with its beautiful skyline views.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back experience, stop by the Johns Hopkins University campus or check out the museums and art galleries around town. Stop by the Westminster Presbyterian Church, where you can see Edgar Allen Poe’s gravesite.

New York is such a large state that much of it is not accessible within a reasonable amount of time to be considered a weekend trip, even a long weekend trip from Pittsburgh. There are a few options, though, all of which have something fun to offer.

24. The Finger Lakes

Drive Time: 5 hours Distance: 284 miles

The Finger Lakes wine country in upstate New York is a beautiful destination for a weekend getaway. The region is home to stunning landscapes, delicious food and drink, and plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities.

The Finger Lakes region is one of the furthest destinations included in this list, and you’ll want to take a long weekend vacation (or maybe more) to explore everything the region has to offer.

Spend the mornings exploring the many waterfalls scattered throughout the area or one of the stunning state parks near the lakes. The afternoons can be saved for wine tasting. Relax by one of the beautiful lakes in the evenings. What could make a better weekend getaway?

Make sure you check out Watkins Glen , Taughannock Falls , and Letchworth State Parks. These are just a few hiking options that have beautiful things to see around the Finger Lakes, but each one has great waterfalls and hiking trails.

25. Jamestown

Drive Time: 2 hours 40 minutes Distance: 171 miles

Did you know that Jamestown, NY is the birthplace of Lucille Ball? She was born there in 1911 and spent her childhood there. It is also her final resting place, along with some members of her other family members.

After a successful career in Hollywood, she retired to her hometown and opened the Lucy-Desi Museum. The museum celebrates her life and career and is home to many artifacts from her time on I Love Lucy.

Jamestown is also home to the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival each year. The festival features stand-up comedians, sketch comedy groups, and performances from both up-and-comers and well-known comedians.

For outdoor lovers, nearby Chautauqua Lake has plenty to do from boating and watersports to hiking trails and parks. Visit Southern Tier Brewing’s original location, and during the summer, you might be able to catch a musical act on the small outdoor stage while you grab a drink and bite to eat.

26. Niagara Falls

Drive Time: 3 hours 40 minutes Distance: 238 miles

Niagara Falls is quite a famous destination, being one of the most visited tourist attractions in North America. It’s no wonder why; Niagara Falls is truly spectacular. It’s the largest waterfall in North America by volume.

There are so many things to do at Niagara Falls, including taking a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat tour , visiting the Cave of the Winds, and even hiking along the Gorge Trail.

You can take out the planning and book a day-long tour of the highlights of Niagara Falls .

Discover Niagara Falls through a Guided Tour, Including Maid of the Mist and Cave of the Winds.

There are also many hotels located near the falls, making it easy to stay overnight while enjoying the beauty of the falls. Some even overlook the falls, but you’ll have to head over to the Canadian side for most of them.

While the area is very built-up and touristy, the magnitude of these falls should not be missed. In our experience, visits during the colder months were less crowded.

27. Ellicottville

Drive Time: 3 hours 15 minutes Distance: 203 miles

Ellicottville is a small town in Western New York, south of Buffalo. This quaint little town provides a lot of bang for your buck, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.

The town is home to 2 ski slopes, which offer even more than just winter fun.  During the summer, trails are open for exploration and mountain biking at Holiday Valley. Just south of town, there are more trails and outdoor areas to visit in the state forests.

After a day of exploring, you can spend the evening wandering through the shops in town or grab dinner and a drink at Ellicottville Brewing.

If you’re looking for a quiet weekend escape in a small town, this is the perfect spot.

28. Buffalo

Drive Time: 3 hours 20 minutes Distance: 219 miles

The city of Buffalo gives off very similar vibes to that of Pittsburgh with the locals and things to do.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from, as well as museums and art galleries, and a waterfront with activities in all seasons. 

Ever wanted to try your luck at curling after watching it on TV during the Olympics? There are lanes at the waterfront area, known as Canalside, where you can try it out and learn the sport. There are also skating rinks and plenty of winter fun. 

During the summer, the waterfront becomes a popular location for concerts and festivals, such as the annual Taste of Buffalo food festival. You could also combine a trip to Buffalo and Niagara Falls, as they’re only about 20 miles apart.

West Virginia

Wild and wonderful, West Virginia has plenty of outdoor adventure waiting in its mountains.

29. New River Gorge

Drive Time: 3 hours 30 minutes Distance: 217 miles

Just over 200 miles to the south, you can visit the US’s newest national park the New River Gorge .

The area in and around the gorge is popular with thrill-seekers, as there is fantastic whitewater rafting in both the New and Gauley Rivers. While we haven’t tackled the Gauley, the New River trip is fun in the spring.

Rock climbing and hiking are also other popular activities in the park, and you’ll find lots of camping options to stay the night in the area. Whether you’d like to spend the night in a primitive cabin or one with lots of amenities, there is a suitable choice. Plenty of tent camping sites are available, too.

Cell phone reception can be a problem in parts of the park, so plan ahead by downloading maps, just in case you find yourself off the grid. It is one of many great areas in West Virginia to get off the grid.

30. Charleston

Drive Time: 3 hours 35 minutes Distance: 228 miles

This historic city is the capital of West Virginia. With its beautiful architecture and charming downtown, Charleston is an absolute must-see when visiting West Virginia.

Although it is the capital of the state, Charleston has kept much of its small-town charm throughout, making this a relaxing weekend getaway from Pittsburgh.

Shop in the Capitol Market or attend an event at the Haddad Riverfront Park amphitheater. Grab a bite at one of the many downtown restaurants serving dishes like Italian or Mexican favorites. 

For a long weekend option, combine a visit to Charleston and the New River Gorge. The one-hour drive between the two destinations on Route 60 is scenic and beautiful. It’ll give you a good taste of those West Virginia country roads.

31. Dolly Sods Wilderness

Drive Time: 3 hours 25 minutes Distance: 152 miles

Another beautiful off-the-grid destination in West Virginia, Dolly Sods is a hiking paradise. As part of the larger Monongahela National Forest, there are over 17,000 acres of outdoor areas to explore.

This is a destination for those who are more adventurous outdoor lovers. 

There are trails for hikers of all levels, and if you want to see some wildlife, keep your eyes peeled for deer, foxes, and even black bears.

The best way to enjoy the outdoors is to camp out here. There are several campsites that offer electricity and water hookups, but no showers.

To really get to some of the best seclusion, plan to head to the backcountry, but only if you come prepared.

Much of Virginia requires more of a drive, so not all of the state is accessible for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh. A few spots could be great, though, especially for long weekend options.

32. Shenandoah

Drive Time: 3 hours 45 minutes Distance: 193 miles

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway from Pittsburgh, Shenandoah is a perfect place to go south.

One of the East Coast’s beautiful national parks, there are miles of hiking trails, biking, and scenic roadways through this portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

You can also take advantage of the natural beauty of the area by fishing and camping.

Shenandoah is definitely a four-season destination. Depending on the time of year, you will be treated to rushing waterfalls, fields of wildflowers, bright fall foliage, or snow-covered mountains.

All are beautiful in their own way, so plan your visit according to the type of scenery that you’d like to visit.

33. Washington D.C.

Drive Time: 4 hours 5 minutes Distance: 242 miles

Because it’s within a 5-hour drive of Pittsburgh, we can’t leave the nation’s capital off of our list of best weekend destinations from Pittsburgh.

You’ll certainly need more than a weekend to see everything that the capital city has to offer, though!

From the monuments and the National Mall to the shopping in Georgetown, there are endless things to do and places to explore. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly experience, check out the Smithsonian Museums or the National Zoo.

They’re all free to visit!

If you’d like someone else to do the route planning, check out these ELECTRIC CART GUIDED TOURS . You’ll be able to see more in less time in this small-group experience.

Plenty of sports teams call D.C. home, too, so there is a great chance that you could catch a game of some kind during your visit.

If you’ve never been to Washington D.C., you won’t know what you’re missing.

While there are so many options for weekend getaways from Pittsburgh, hopefully, this list gives you some great ideas to start with. Better yet, take a spur-of-the-moment trip to one of the closer destinations we suggested. Sometimes those kinds of trips lead to some of the best memories!

Which one of these weekend getaways from Pittsburgh are you most excited about planning?

Samantha is the owner and author of PAonPause, a blog that helps travelers find the best outdoor travel experiences and highlights unique locations around the Great Lakes. When she isn't writing and creating content for the website, she's hiking and exploring with her husband and 2 rescue pups. She also enjoys a good craft beer, a summer ride in her Jeep with the top down, and discovering a new waterfall.

• Last Updated On
• June 24, 2023

30 Best Weekend Getaways From Memphis — Quick Trips!

Worthy of the name, Memphis means established and beautiful – exactly what the city is.

Home of the Blues & Birthplace of Rock ‘n’ Roll, this city in Tennessee undoubtedly offers one of the best vacations.

However, you might travel around the stunning city for a fun and memorable escapade.

Discover the best weekend getaways from Memphis by checking out our list below.

Jackson, MS

Jackson, the vibrant capital of Mississippi, is proudly referred to as “The City with Soul.”

Only a 3-hour and a 2-minute drive from Memphis, visit a capital known for its stunning architecture and fantastic nightlife, Jackson.

The blues occupy a special place in the community, immersed in the music of all genres, from jazz to gospel.

Moreover, no trip to the city would be complete without attending a live concert in the famed Farish Street neighborhood.

However, Jackson offers more than just music, like the historical Mississippi Freedom Trail.

It is also home to the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, where your young ones can visit the aquarium and see different arts.

Related: Places to Eat in Jackson

2. Blanchard Springs Caverns

704 Blanchard Springs Road Fifty-Six, AR 72533 (870) 757-2211

Blanchard Springs Caverns, a cave network, is situated in the Ozark-St. Stone County, which is home to Francis National Forest.

If you are looking for a cool overnight trip, take a 3-hour and 14-minute drive to a natural treasure.

The Blanchard Springs Caverns, a unique living cave with ever-changing rock formations, are tucked away in the Ozark National Forest.

Year-round tours are available, and many spaces have lights, handrails, and paved walking paths.

However, you can take time through an undeveloped cave area if you prefer a more challenging experience.

3. Chickasaw State Park

20 Cabin Ln #4128 Henderson, TN 38340 (888) 867-2757

Chickasaw State Park in western Tennessee spans over 1,400 acres of land and is named for the indigenous Chickasaw people who first inhabited the region.

Experience cheap vacations from Memphis by driving about an hour and 30 minutes to Chickasaw State Park.

You can enjoy more than four miles of hiking trails, but if you’d prefer to see the area on horseback, they can rent a horse from the park stables.

In addition, the park’s paved roads are off-limits to horses, but there is an hour-long guided riding trail suitable for riders of all skill levels.

Paddling on Lake Placid is another well-liked activity, and rowboats can be rented if necessary.

Recommended Hotel: Americana Inn – Henderson

4. Clarksdale

Clarksdale, MS (662) 627-6149

A historic tiny town in the Mississippi Delta, about an hour and a 30-minute drive from Memphis, Clarksdale is well-known for its close ties to the blues.

Throughout the year, more than a dozen music festivals occur here.

Regardless of when you visit, the Delta Blues Museum offers insight into great musicians’ careers.

Additionally, you can go on a walking tour of the Mississippi Blues Trail Markers around the community.

Plus, you can go shopping at downtown Arts and Culture, where you can also experience fine dining.

And if you plan to go here in the evening, you must attend one of the live blues performances presented here every night of the year.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Clarksdale, MS

Hardy, AR (870) 856-3811

In the middle of the 1880s, the small town of Hardy was first built as a railroad construction site.

Take a 2-hour drive to Hardy, a quaint town with a turn-of-the-century feel.

If you want short trips from Memphis , you can stop by this small town in Arkansas.

The quaint village is home to picture-postcard stores full of collectibles, antiques, and crafts from local artisans, all in a setting of rolling hills and unspoiled nature.

A few cafes and restaurants are available, some of which occasionally include live music performances.

And the downtown streets are lined with antique shops and pleasant boutiques selling local handicrafts.

Moreover, the gorgeous river that runs through town is another year-round appeal.

Many people spend their entire day fishing, canoeing, or lounging on the water.

Recommended Hotel: Hardy House

Related: Hotels in Memphis

6. Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge

TN-76 Stanton, TN 38069 (731) 772-0501

Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge is a swampy bottomland area in West Tennessee that includes a portion of the Hatchie River’s floodplain.

Adding this stunning wildlife sanctuary to your list will give you one of the best getaways in Memphis.

Take a 52-minute drive to see The Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a habitat for various plant and animal species.

Wildlife watching is one of the refuge’s most well-liked pursuits.

However, guests are welcome to use the observation deck and boat launches at the refuge, which are especially helpful for those looking to see waterfowl.

Aside from self-guided walks and ranger-led tours, hunting and fishing are also permitted seasonally.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Inn Brownsville I-40

7. Heber Springs

Heber Springs, AR (501) 362-3635

Heber Springs, formerly known as Sugar Loaf, is a warm rural refuge ideal for anyone looking to spend the day away from the city.

Take about a 3-hour drive from Memphis to visit Heber Springs.

Many visitors take in the breathtaking scenery, especially the Greers Ferry Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear water and excellent fishing.

However, you can visit the historic downtown center featuring a majestic county courthouse with a classic square, a museum, antique stores, and a restored theater.

Or you can stop by Spring Park to appreciate the flora.

There are many wonderful antique shops and art galleries to visit if you wish to spend some time in the town.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Conference Center

8. Holly Springs National Forest

1000 Front Street Oxford, MS 38655-4915 (662) 236-6550

The Holly Springs National Forest, one of Mississippi’s six national forests, is a fantastic location for both on and off-the-water outdoor leisure.

The forest is primarily made up of pine and hardwood trees and is an hour and 20 minutes away.

However, its real gems are its countless sparkling lakes, which provide serene swimming beaches and a wealth of boating, fishing, and swimming options.

You can take advantage of several hiking routes, including a 1.5-mile interpretive walk around the breathtaking Puskas Lake without being paved.

Or, if you want a challenge, you can choose a more strenuous 4-mile trek that circles Chewalla Lake and ascends the hillsides.

What’s more, the Holly Springs National Forest aims to support native populations, eradicate invasive non-native species and restore short-leaf pine habitats.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn New Albany

9. Jonesboro

Jonesboro, AR (870) 932-1052

Northeast Arkansas’ rolling hills conceal Jonesboro, a pleasantly progressive community with top-notch stores, eateries, and attractions.

If you are looking for short trips from Memphis, take an hour’s drive to Jonesboro, Arkansas.

Take your family to a fun night in the city’s bustling downtown.

Or you can go to the Mall at Turtle Creek if you want to do some serious shopping.

Don’t forget to make time in your itinerary for the city’s Craighead Forest Park, which provides activities like hiking, fishing, and disc golf.

If you want an excellent place for your kids to learn about the local environment, take them to The Forrest L. Wood Crowley’s Ridge Nature Center.

Recommended Hotel: Embassy Suites Jonesboro – Arkansas State

Related: Tennessee: Weekend Getaways

10. Little Rock

Little Rock, the state’s capital, is undoubtedly one of the friendliest and busiest destinations in Arkansas for a day trip.

Just a 3-hour drive from Memphis, you will find that this small city has many activities to offer its guests.

If you prefer to shop or eat, head to the River Market District to enjoy one of the best cuisines in Arkansas.

And if you enjoy the outdoors, take a stroll along the serene Arkansas River Trail or take the kids to the Little Rock Zoo.

Moreover, the city has four well-known haunted places to experience a thrilling getaway.

Recommended Hotel: AC Hotel Little Rock Downtown

11. Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

910 Riddick Rd Millington, TN 38053 (888) 867-2757

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is Tennessee’s stunning state park which encompasses 12,539 acres of hardwood bottomland along the Mississippi River.

One of Tennessee’s most well-liked parks, Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park is just a 23-minute drive from Memphis.

There are more than 20 hiking routes in the forest, including an 8-mile trail that follows one of the magnificent Chickasaw Bluffs.

However, other well-liked pastimes are horseback riding, fishing at Poplar Tree Lake, and disc golf.

Moreover, the park is a popular location for birdwatchers as it is home to more than 200 species of birds.

Nevertheless, tourists more interested in the region’s exciting wildlife can view live turtles, snakes, and fish in the Nature Center.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Millington

12. Mississippi River State Park

2955 State Hwy 44 Marianna, AR 72360 (870) 295-4040

Where the Mississippi River and the Arkansas Delta meet, the Mississippi River State Park offers visitors countless activities.

This state treasure is a genuinely excellent example of why people come to Arkansas to enjoy their downtime in the great outdoors.

In addition, it is about an hour and a 5-minute drive from Memphis.

Despite its small size, this park has easy access to scenic lakes ideal for boating, water skiing, swimming, and fishing.

And did we mention that it sits near the St. Francis River and the Mississippi River?

What’s more, you can trek the Bear Creek Lake Nature Trail and cycle along the park’s access roads.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn & Suites

13. Nashville

Nashville, TN (800) 657-6910

Nashville is one of Tennessee’s most famous towns. It deserves its stellar reputation, especially if you enjoy country music.

If you want a fun getaway, Memphis lets you experience a great place for music and creative spirit.

Located 3 hours and 11 minutes away, you can visit the artistic scene of Nashville.

Stop by the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to learn about the history of country music and its relationship with the city.

What’s more, you visit the renowned Grand Ole Opry or the storied Ryman Auditorium, which served as the Opry’s home until 1974.

Recommended Hotel: Hyatt Centric Downtown Nashville

Oxford, MS (662) 234-4651

Creativity thrives in Oxford, the “Cultural Mecca of the South,” as singers, artists, and writers find inspiration in Oxford’s rich history, charm, and creative culture.

Take an hour and 22-minute drive to have one of the best Memphis weekend getaways in Oxford.

Oxford is a friendly academic town with a fascinating past, like its more well-known British equivalent.

It is home to the University of Mississippi, which has two historic house museums and a massive museum with historical and regional items.

But the city also offers a diverse range of other sights and activities.

Explore the boutique boutiques in the Historic Downtown Square and admire the artwork at the Oxford Treehouse Gallery.

Or you can visit famous restaurants which offer an exceptional culinary experience.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Oxford

15. Pinson Mounds State Archeological Park

460 Ozier Rd Pinson, TN 38366 (888) 867-2757

In Madison County, you can find a prehistoric Native American complex called the Pinson Mounds.

One of Tennessee’s most distinctive state parks is Pinson Mounds State Archeological Park, which is about an hour and 50-minute drive from Memphis.

The site also has a vast museum inside a replica mound, where visitors can see recovered relics.

Experience a fascinating getaway by discovering more about the way of life of the Native Americans of the Woodland Period in one of its museums.

16. Reelfoot Lake

2595 Highway 21 East Tiptonville, TN 38079 (888) 867-2757

Reelfoot Lake is a shallow body of water formed due to earthquakes that changed the path of the Mississippi River in the early 1800s.

If you want relaxing and inexpensive weekend getaways near Memphis, drive about 2 hours away to Reelfoot Lake.

The ecosystem of the park and lake is unique compared to other areas in Tennessee.

While majestic Cypress trees tower over the lake, numerous underwater Cypress stumps are below the surface.

Furthermore, the lake’s shallow waters make ideal natural fish spawning grounds, and fishing is outstanding, especially for bluegill and crappie.

And more than 200 different bird species can be seen in the area, including the bald eagle and the peregrine falcon.

Although daily eagle-watching excursions are provided in the winter, you are always welcome to hike the park’s paths and observe birds on your own.

Recommended Hotel: Quality Inn Union City US 51

17. Sardis Lake

2400 Highway 315 Scenic Route Sardis, MS 38666 (662) 563-4531

Sardis Lake may not be as well-known as some other lakes in Mississippi, but those who have found it agree that it’s a true hidden gem.

Sardis Lake is only an hour and 27-minute drive from Memphis.

The lake is perfect for almost any water sport, including swimming, boating, and water skiing.

On the lake’s coast, there is a marina with a waterfront restaurant where you can rent boats, tubes, water skis, and wakeboards if they don’t have their own.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Oxford-West

18. Shiloh National Military Park

1055 Pittsburg Landing Rd Shiloh, TN 38376 (731) 689-5696

The Shiloh National Military Park was created to preserve the battlefields of Shiloh and Corinth, significantly impacting the Civil War.

This park is one of the best-preserved Civil War sites in the country and is about 2 hours away from Memphis.

Start your visit at one of the two visitor centers, where a wealth of excellent displays highlight the site’s history.

Next, inquire about the details of leaving on a self-guided driving tour that takes you to 20 of the park’s most significant landmarks.

Or you can also participate in one of the daily interpretive walking tours guided by rangers throughout the summer.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Pickwick Dam-At Shiloh Falls

19. Birmingham

Birmingham , Alabama’s largest city, is 245.4 miles and a 3-hour and 40-minute drive from Memphis.

Complete your long weekend trips from Memphis by visiting this stunning city.

Alabama, on the edge of the Appalachians, has beautiful scenery.

However, the unique combination of historic charm and various attractions keeps visitors returning.

Visit memorials, including Kelly Ingram Park, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and the Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument.

Treat your family to a fun afternoon at the Birmingham Zoo and breathtaking parks.

But make sure not to leave this vibrant Southern city without dining at one of the many James Beard award-winning and -nominated restaurants there.

Recommended Hotel: Hilton Birmingham Downtown at UAB

20. St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis, Missouri , is renowned as the “Gateway to the West,” and the Gateway Arch on the Mississippi River symbolizes this.

Start your trip by taking a 4-hour drive from Memphis to St. Louis.

This magnificent artificial landmark, which is home to the tallest arch in the world, can serve as the starting point of your vacation to St. Louis.

After enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the dynamic metropolitan city, you can look forward to a day full of exciting activities at St. Louis Union Station.

It used to be a busy train station, but now it is home to an aquarium, the St. Louis Wheel, restaurants, parks, and more.

Take a tour of this historic city to see its museums, the Old Courthouse, and the residence of ragtime legend Scott Joplin.

Recommended Hotel: Angad Arts Hotel

Related: Best Places to Visit Near St Louis

21. Tuscumbia, Alabama

Tuscumbia, AL (256) 386-5655

Tuscumbia is an excellent place to visit if you want to get away from city life.

Take a 3-hour drive from Memphis to reach a modest, humble, and beautiful town in Alabama.

Even if it’s tiny, you’ll undoubtedly find something to do.

The town of Tuscumbia has a lengthy history that dates back to the 1800s.

You can go to Ivy Green, the childhood home of American author and political activist Helen Keller.

You may want to visit a park or nature reserve like Cane Creek Canyon Nature Preserve or Spring Park.

Recommended Hotel: Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Tuscumbia/Muscle Shoals

22. Tupelo, Mississippi

Tupelo, a vibrant city of 38,000 people in the northeastern part of Mississippi, is well known for its most famous local son, Elvis Presley.

If you are looking for last minute weekend getaways from Memphis, take an hour and 50-minute drive to the vibrant city of Mississippi, Tupelo.

There are so many activities you can do.

Tupelo has more than 160 dining establishments .

So no matter if you’re in the mood for Cajun food, BBQ, or seafood, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your palate.

For example, you can visit Johnnie’s Drive-In, an establishment that was a personal favorite of Elvis Presley, to eat like a king.

Moreover, there are also so many sights to see.

Complete your adventure at the Elvis Presley Birthplace and Museum, where you can witness the two-room shotgun house where Elvis was born in 1935.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn & Suites Tupelo North, an IHG Hotel

23. Water Valley, Mississippi

Water Valley, MS (662) 473-1122

Water Valley is a Mississippi destination that offers a great blend of small-town charm and big-city culture.

If you’re looking for near Memphis vacations, take an hour and 22-minute drive to this classic tiny Southern town.

Water Valley is a melting pot of cultures owing to a vibrant Main Street, delectable restaurants, grand old mansions, and an incredible art scene.

In addition, the main street is full of fabulous restaurants and art galleries that display creations from regional avant-garde artists to national avant-garde artists.

Recommended Hotel: Home2 Suites By Hilton Oxford

24. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs is a city in the Ouachita Mountains of Arkansas known for its heated springs.

Relaxing in hot springs and taking in the beauty of the surrounding mountains is one of the best romantic getaways from Memphis.

Take about a 3-hour drive to the home of the country’s oldest and smallest park system.

Take your loved ones to a relaxing time inside the park, where you can go hiking, partake in hot water cascades, and more.

In addition, Hot Springs is well-known for some years of local events, such as the Hot Springs Music Festival and the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival.

Recommended Hotel: The Waters Hot Springs, Tapestry Collection by Hilton

25. Tennessee Safari Park

618 Conley Rd Alamo, TN 38001 (731) 696-4423

Located about an hour and 30 minutes away, The Tennessee Safari Park is a terrific option if you’re looking for something entertaining to do with your kids for the day.

If you are looking for places near Memphis for vacation, look no further than this Safari park.

More than 80 animals, including zebras, giraffes, and antelopes, call the park home.

Numerous animals are allowed to roam freely throughout the park.

So, guests can go through the park in their car while feeding the animals out the window.

Additionally, there is a walking area where guests can view smaller creatures, including wallabies, cranes, and kookaburras.

Recommended Hotel: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Jackson

26. The Ghost River Brewery

827 S Main St Memphis, TN 38106 (901) 661-4976

The Ghost River Brewery, conveniently located in the heart of Memphis, is the ultimate pick for craft beer lovers looking for a day excursion.

If you are looking for Memphis area weekend getaways, visit The Ghost River Brewery, just 5 minutes away from the central city.

The beer is proudly created using extraordinarily pure water drawn from a portion of the Wolf River only 50 miles outside Memphis.

Plus, it features a welcome terrace, a revolving menu of regional food trucks, and the opportunity to try exclusive tap room-only brews.

The taproom is open Wednesday through Sunday.

If you go on a Saturday, you may take a guided tour of the facilities.

Recommended Hotel: Big Cypress Lodge

27. Village Creek State Park

201 County Road 754 Wynne, AR 72396 (870) 238-9406

Village Creek State Park in Arkansas is warm, with about 7,000 acres to enjoy.

If you are looking for places to go for a weekend trip near you, Village Creek State Park has numerous activities you can do.

Only a 54-minute drive from Memphis, visitors come here to boat and fish on the park’s two lovely lakes.

But if you prefer to stay on dry land, there are also a lot of picnic tables and pavilions that are great for unwinding.

A small museum featuring exhibits about the local history is available at the visitor center, and interpretive programs are held all year round.

Recommended Hotel: Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Wynne

28. Wolf River

Wolf River, TN (901) 452-6500

Wolf River, a gorgeous body of water that runs 105 miles from northern Mississippi to Memphis, offers countless options for outdoor activities both on and off the water.

This stunning river is just a 40-minute drive from Memphis.

It is especially well-known for its fantastic paddling tracks, and if you don’t have your own, you can hire a canoe or kayak there.

Families and non-canoeists might choose to join one of the tubing excursions provided by nearby outfitters.

A fantastic network of hiking routes along the river, many of which are accessible to cyclists and pedestrians.

Recommended Hotel: No Wake Zone

29. Chattanooga

Chattanooga is a southeastern Tennessee city set in the Appalachian Mountains’ foothills along the Tennessee River.

With just a 5-hour drive from Memphis, you can visit this stunning city where many activities exist.

Start your journey on Lookout Mountain, where you can ride the Incline Railway, the world’s steepest passenger railway.

Take a tour of Ruby Falls, an underground waterfall and cave.

Aboard the Southern Belle, a classic steamboat cruising down the riverbank, and see Lookout Mountain from a fresh angle.

Lastly, experience one of the best nights with your family by dining at one of the city’s best restaurants.

Recommended Hotel: The Read House

30. Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge

728 Yazoo Refuge Rd Hollandale, MS 38748 (662) 839-2638

Named after the Yazoo tribe, this National Wildlife Refuge spans 12,941 acres in Washington County.

Experience the best weekend getaways from Memphis by taking about a 3-hour drive.

Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge is the oldest wildlife refuge in Mississippi.

Moreover, you can find a thriving population of American alligators, a species of reptile whose ancestry can be traced back to the age of the dinosaurs.

You can also do countless activities, such as hiking, camping, boating, and hunting.

Recommended Hotel: Tru By Hilton Greenville

Map of The Best Weekend Getaways From Memphis, TN

30 Best Weekend Trips From Memphis 2024

• Blanchard Springs Caverns
• Chickasaw State Park
• Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge
• Heber Springs
• Holly Springs National Forest
• Little Rock
• Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park
• Mississippi River State Park
• Pinson Mounds State Archeological Park
• Reelfoot Lake
• Sardis Lake
• Shiloh National Military Park
• St. Louis, Missouri
• Tuscumbia, Alabama
• Tupelo, Mississippi
• Water Valley, Mississippi
• Hot Springs, Arkansas
• Tennessee Safari Park
• The Ghost River Brewery
• Village Creek State Park
• Chattanooga
• Yazoo National Wildlife Refuge

40 Incredible Weekend Trips From Cincinnati, Ohio

Are you looking for the best weekend trips from Cincinnati, Ohio? We share our ultimate guide to getaways under 5 hours from Cincinnati.

As an avid weekend traveler, I love to explore small towns, new attractions, and outdoor activities within driving distance. The Ohio River makes a beautiful backdrop to any local adventure, but sometimes you want to explore the world around you, especially hidden gems only a few hours away.

In this article, we will share the best weekend getaways; whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or a weekend away with the family, you will be surprised at all there is to do within a few hours from Cincinnati.

Tips For Deciding On A Weekend Getaway From Cincinnati

In my perfect world, I could pack my bags, hop in the car and drive to my destination without any planning! However, planning is vital in ensuring you make the most of your trip. Especially when trying to head up to Put-In-Bay.; you don’t want to miss that ferry!!

Here are a few things to consider while putting together weekend trips from Cincinnati:

The Weather

The season you are traveling in can make a difference in pricing, activities, and events. Cincinnati locals are familiar with it being 20 degrees in the morning and 68 degrees that afternoon. Winter weather can close many hiking trails in Hocking Hills, while the 4th of July weekend is one of the busiest for amusement parks such as Cedar Point.

Weekend trips from Cincinnati don’t have to break the bank. Many nearby destinations offer an abundance of free activities. Depending on your traveling party’s number of people, things can get pricey quickly. If there is a particular destination or hotel you are looking at staying at, start following them on social media or sign up for their newsletters to receive discounts or deals. For example, the Mohican’s Treehouse Resort will offer last-minute treehouse deals at half the cost!

Feel free to search Groupon for deals as well. Great Wolf Lodge will often put out a winter deal once a year for those who can visit during the week.

Tip: Do you have a local zoo or museum center membership? Check to see if they offer reciprocity at other nearby zoos or museums.  For example, our Cincinnati Zoo membership gets us 50% off at most zoos in Ohio! Our Cincinnati Museum membership gets us in free at the Imagination Station in Toldeo. 

Travel Time

The drive time for weekend getaways is classified differently by everyone. While some consider two hours a weekend getaway, others will drive six or seven hours. In this article, everything is under 5 hours from Cincinnati.

Cincinnati is a great location where travelers can be at Lake Erie in four hours going north or the Smoky Mountain National Park four hours going south. Having Kentucky, Indiana, and West Virginia close by makes for endless possibilities.

Top Weekend Trips From Cincinnati

Put-in-bay and ohio’s islands.

There are four Lake Erie Islands in Ohio where guests can stay overnight. Three islands have a ferry service that takes guests to and from the island. Each island has its own unique vibe, catering to a different type of traveler. Whether looking for a more peaceful getaway on Middle Bass Island or embracing the “Key West” lifestyle on Put-In-Bay, a lake trip to the islands is a must.

A trip to the Islands does require some planning, as you will need to catch a ferry, rent a golf cart or arrange transportation. Check out our Guide To Middle Bass Island for tips on planning a visit to any of the islands and top things to do on Middle Bass and Put-In-Bay.

Travel Time From Cincinnati : Roughly four and half hours.

Stay At The French Lick Resort

The historic West Baden Springs Hotel at the French Lick Resort is perfect for a luxury retreat. The iconic atrium lures visitors to this luxury hotel tucked away in the southern hills of Indiana. Between the incredible amenities at the resort and nearby attractions, French Lick is a great place for families, couples, and getaways with friends.

The West Baden Springs Hotel is home to the stunning atrium once known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Here guests can enjoy fine dining at Sinclair’s, relax with a spa treatment, or shop in the gift shop.

The French Lick Hotel offers plenty of family-friendly amenities. Go bowling at Plutos Lanes, take a dip in the large indoor pool, sunbathe near the outdoor pools, then feast on a breakfast buffet at the Grand Colonnade Restaurant. Hop on a complimentary trolley ride to French Lick Resort or the Casino for even more fun.

Discover our 20 Exciting Things To Do in French Lick, Indiana , and start planning your trip.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: Roughly 2 hours and 45 minutes

Give An Elephant A Bath At The Wilstem Elephant Spa

One of the most incredible animal encounters on your bucket list should be the   Elephant Spa at Wilstem  Wildlife Park. Guests can assist in bathing their resident elephants, including exfoliation and painting their toenails!

We enjoyed learning about the elephants, including why their daily baths are so important. The elephant’s caretaker was extremely knowledgeable, offering us fun facts about the elephants, “Cindy and Vicky.”

Kids even have the chance to participate in helping care for these gentle giants with options to help scrub, rinse, or paint toenails. Lucky for us, we were the only family, so we got to do it all!

Tips For The Wilstem Elephant Spa

• This experience is two hours long and includes an elephant educational program.
• The elephant’s caretaker will give detailed instructions on where to stand, what to do, etc.
• Wear closed-toe shoes.
• You will likely get wet but not soaked.
• There is a bathroom available.
• They feed the elephant animals crackers as part of their training. You may want to bring a pack for your kids as a snack.
• Sign your waiver before arriving.

Address: 4229 US-150 W, Paoli, IN 47454

Go Hiking At Hocking Hills State Park

One of our favorite weekend trips from Cincinnati is to Hocking Hills. Deemed one of Ohio’s most scenic state parks, Hocking Hills is full of cascading waterfalls, rugged gorges, sheer rock walls, and towering cliffs. Whether it is a kid-friendly trail or a more thrilling hike, our list of the best hikes in Hocking Hills has something for every type of hiker.

A few of our favorites are Cedar Falls, Old Man’s Cave, Cantwell Cliffs, and the Rock House . Try the paved trails at Ash Cave, and Conkles Hollow State Nature Preserve with kids in tow.

Hocking Hills has become a booming area, with new lodging popping up every year. Cabins are now abundant, along with unique Airbnb stays.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: Roughly 2 hours and 15 minutes

Discover Eccentric Yellow Springs

The vibrant and eccentric town of Yellow Springs is full of an eclectic assortment of shops and restaurants. Lovingly known as a “hippy town,” Yellow Springs is full of aspiring artists, charming cafes, and unique boutiques. Devote a few hours to discovering the free-spirited nature of Yellow Springs before venturing to the nearby Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve. Chances are it will be hard to leave without finding something that is truly one of a kind.

Don’t miss out on a few of our favorite spots, such as hiking at the Glen Helen Nature Preserve. The 1000-acre nature preserve is home to beautiful waterfalls, ancient trees, and the famous Yellow Spring that the town is named after. 

Stop by Young’s Dairy for a tasty treat of freshly made ice cream and cheese curds. Youngs is a mecca for families with farmyard friends, pumpkin festivals, and mini-golf.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: Roughly 1 hour and 10 minutes

Spend The Weekend Hiking Red River Gorge

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

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

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 2 hours

Kalahari Indoor Waterpark

While the Kalahari Resort in the Wisconsin Dells holds the record for America’s largest indoor waterpark, Kalahari in Sandusky claims the title as Ohio’s largest.

Kalahari in Sandusky sits along Lake Erie, offering guests many additional attractions to visit during their stay. Spend the day exploring Put-In-Bay, plan an afternoon at one of Lake Erie’s beautiful beaches, or go thrill-seeking at nearby Cedar Point.

Kalahari Resort is massive and can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. Check out our tips on visiting Kalahari before your trip so that you come prepared. I found that Kalahari is great for older kids and teens compared to Ohio’s other indoor water parks. There are more thrilling attractions and slides for them to do. If you visit during the summer, a huge outdoor waterpark opens up for guests!

Kalahari Family Nights are special rates on special dates at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells and Sandusky, Ohio. These special deals are available for anyone who signs up in the “Don White Block.” Utilizing a discount makes it possible for this to be one of the few weekend trips from Cincinnati you can enjoy multiple times a year.

 The “Don White Block” is a particular room block at the Kalahari not available to the general public. A limited number of rooms are set aside at a rate well below the regular Kalahari rates. Learn more about the  Kalahari Family Nights .

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 hours and 40 minutes

The Columbus Zoo and Zoombezi Bay

Columbus is home to many fun family attractions; one of the top spots is the Columbus Zoo. The zoo is spread out, offering animals plenty of space to roam, including an African Savannah! The reason the Zoo is getting its own spot on the list is that families can spend all weekend here!

The Columbus Zoo is home to an incredible zoo, aquarium, amusement park, and Zoombezi Bay water park.

Adventure Cove is a popular area in the zoo offering amusement rides such as a wooden roller coaster, swings, bumper boats, and more. Guests can purchase a Zoo More wristband to enjoy all the rides throughout the zoo, including those at Adventure Cove.

Zoombezi Bay is a waterpark full of waterslides, a lazy river, a kid’s splash area, and a 21+ Lazy River called Croctail Creek. Cocktail Creek allows adults to float with alcoholic beverages. 

Planning Tip: Admission to Zoombezi Bay also includes admission to the Columbus Zoo. The zoo offers two-day tickets because there is so much to see and do! Remember that attractions such as rides in Adventure Cove, rides throughout the zoo, and special animal programs require an additional charge.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 2 Hours

Maumee Bay State Park and Lodge

One of the best weekend trips from Cincinnati is a visit to Maumee Bay State Park. The park is 1,450 acres, with excellent birdwatching in the wetlands, bike trails, a golf course, and fishing. Surrounding Maumee Bay State Park is additional refuges to explore, such as Ottawa National Wildlife Refuge, Metzger Marsh Wildlife Area, and the Cedar Point National Wildlife Refuge.

We recommend bringing or renting bikes to enjoy along the scenic trails, planning a picnic on the beach, or going birding in the marshy wildlife areas!

Sitting on the scenic shores of Lake Erie sits the tranquil Maumee Bay Lodge. Soak in a spectacular sunset, take a peaceful stroll along the boardwalk, or cozy up next to one of the fireplaces. You will not want to leave with so many great things to do at   Maumee Bay State Park Lodge!  

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 hours and 15 minutes

Go Visit Indy

One of the best places for a weekend getaway from Cincinnati is Indianapolis. Couples will swoon over the historic Iron Works and Bottle Works Hotel, while kids will love exploring the newest exhibit at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum.

Indianapolis is one of those cities that you can visit multiple times in a year and still not see everything. Discover the thrills of the Indy 500 and tour the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, go underground to see the city’s catacombs, or catch the Dolphin Presentation at the Indy Zoo.

We have your ideal Indianapolis three-day itinerary if you plan a visit with the kids!

Planning Tip: Families can spend multiple days at the Children’s Museum, with four stories of exhibits and the outdoor Sports Legend Experience (seasonal). If you plan on visiting the museum, expect to spend an entire day there. We spent five hours there and barely made it through half the museum and none of the outdoor experiences.

Sip Your Way Through The Bourbon Trail

Sipping bourbon has become a popular pastime, with many having their favorite bourbon. This is why crafting your own Bourbon Trail Tour makes one of the best weekend trips from Cincinnati. By crafting your own tour, you can ensure your favorite distilleries are en route.

Kentucky is the world’s bourbon capital, with new bourbon distilleries popping up each year. With so many options, from the classic Kentucky Bourbon Trail to the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, it is easy to spend a weekend exploring bourbon country.

Planning Tip: Many distilleries now require you to book a tour time. These tours can book out months in advance. Review our Bourbon Trail Guide for all the tips and tricks before you hit the trail.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: Depends on distilleries. There are stops as close as Northern Kentucky.

Visit The Charming Town Of Little Nashville

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

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

Don’t miss Brown County State Park, Indiana’s largest State Par. The park offers scenic hiking trails, mountain biking, horse-backing riding, and more.  The foliage is stunning during the fall months, making it the ideal season to visit.

A trip to Nashville, TN, is roughly 5 hours from Cincinnati, making it another great weekend getaway full of live music, bachelor and bachelorette parties, southern cooking, and more.

New River Gorge

Discover beautiful, wild West Virginia with a trip to New River Gorge National Park. From exploring an abandoned ghost town to scenic hikes, we highlight a few of our favorite  Things To Do In New River Gorge .  Endless adventures, thrills, and plenty of jaw-dropping landscapes await!

From Cincinnati, you will drive through the capital of West Virginia, Charleston, to get to Red River Gorge. I would recommend allocating a few hours or even a day to explore the historic sites of this charming city.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 4 Hours and 30 minutes

Big Bone Lick State Park

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

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

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 30 minutes

Brewdog Hotel In Columbus

One of the best adult weekend trips from Cincinnati is in Columbus, Ohio. Plan an overnight at the world’s first craft beer hotel with a stay at Brewdog Hotel in Columbus, Ohio. Brewdog Hotel has 32 beer-themed rooms with draft beer on tap in each of them. How would you like a shower beer or a beermosa in the morning? All these dreams can become a reality with this unique overnight.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 1 hour and 45 minutes

Stroll The Portsmouth Floodwall Murals

The Portsmouth, Ohio Floodwall Murals are an iconic Ohio landmark portraying local history through exquisitely painted murals. Over 55 murals adorn the floodwalls, each depicting a moment in time. Today guests can take a self-guided tour of the Floodwall murals.

While in Portsmouth, plan to visit Shawnee State Park or stay overnight at the rustic Shawnee State Park Lodge . Go antiquing in downtown Portsmouth, visit Mound Park, and stop for coffee at Lofts Coffee Company and Roastery.

Hike in the Great Smoky Mountains

One of the most popular weekend trips from Cincinnati is to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. Endless attractions, outdoor adventures, and restaurants can be found throughout Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, and Gatlinburg.

Experience the great outdoors with horseback riding, hiking to mountain streams, and even tubing down a river. Thrill seekers will love to spend the weekend exploring Dollywood, while others will enjoy a peaceful retreat in their scenic cabin.

Discover our top 25 things to do in Pigeon Forge, Tennesee, with kids.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 4 Hours and 30 Minutes (traffic could increase this)

Indiana Dunes

The tranquility and beauty of the Indiana Dunes will have you questioning if you are actually in Indiana. Soft sand paired with massive dunes, along with the sound of the waves rolling in from Lake Michigan, made me feel like I was at the ocean. The Indiana Dunes is an incredible National Park that has many great hiking trails and activities to explore. A campground is available at the park.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 4 Hours

Castaway Bay

Splash into the newly reimagined Castaway Bay in Sandusky, Ohio. Cedar Point’s freshly renovated indoor waterpark and hotel is Ohio’s all-new family aqua adventure! Explore all the exciting activities on the property with the help of Castaway Bay’s mascot Gordy and friends.

Whether you are planning a visit to Cedar Point amusement park or a fun winter escape, Castaway Bay is the ideal getaway for families with kids under ten years old—playful touches such as interactive character doors, character meet-n-greets, and an abundance of kid-friendly waterpark attractions make this a top weekend getaway from Cincinnati with kids.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 hours and 45 minutes

Sleep In The Floating Tents In Troy, Ohio

One of the most unique weekend trips from Cincinnati is overnighting in a floating tent. While sleeping in an inflatable tent on a river may frighten some, many embrace the adventure.

Float Troy allows guests to rent floating tents overnight on the Great Miami River. Guests can reserve the tents on select weekends throughout the year. The tents are at Treasure Island Park along the Great Miami River. Each tent has a raft, oars, and life vests to get to and from the tent.

During your visit, the inflatable floating tent is only one of the many  fun things to do in Troy, Ohio .

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 1 hour and ten minutes

Plan A Weekend In Dayton

One of the best places to take a weekend trip from Cincinnati, is to discover the history of aviation in the United States is Dayton, Ohio. The hometown of Wilber and Orville Wright, Dayton, boasts an extensive collection of aviation artifacts and museums. The Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park consists of a six-unit park located in and around Dayton.

See the1905 Wright Flyer III preserved at the Wright Brothers National Museum in Carillon Historical Park. Other historical sites include the Paul Laurence Dunbar House Historic Site , Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, home to The National Museum of the United States Airforce, and The Wright Cycle Company Complex.

If you are visiting with kids, plan a weekend with a visit to the Forest Trolls in Aullwood Audubon, followed by a dinner at the Troll Pub. Explore the Boonshoft Museum of Discovery, Wegerzyn Gardens, and the Dayton Art Institute.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 45 minutes

Fort Wayne, Indiana

Downtown Fort Wayne is a thriving entertainment hotspot with museums, botanical gardens, and a growing food scene. Zip across town to explore their famous children’s zoo or venture into the intriguing science center. Guests of all ages will love strolling through their newly renovated Promenade Park along the river.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 Hours

Explore Columbus Ohio

Ohio’s capital city makes the perfect weekend getaway from Cincinnati for all types of travelers. Columbus is a foodie paradise with neighborhoods like the Italian Village and Franklinton Art District, teeming with unique, innovative restaurants, bars, breweries, rooftop views, and more.

Families from Cincinnati will often pilgrimage to Columbus for the science center, COSI, or to experience the bizarre sights at Otherworld. Legoland will bring out the inner brick builder in all of us, while visiting the American Girl store is a bucket list item for many.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Ohio’s Amish Country

Scenic drives through the backroads of Ohio’s Amish Country will have you basking in the simple joys of life. Delight in a home-cooked meal, swing on a front porch, and experience the Amish culture in ways you never thought possible. See the world’s largest Cuckcoo Clock, snack on cheese at Heini’s Cheese Outlet, and visit the Age of Steam Roundhouse.

Holmes county is full of wineries, Amish boutiques, unique lodging, and a variety of outdoor adventures as well! Many will attest that a visit to Ohio’s Amish Country is one of the best weekend trips from Cincinnati.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 Hours 25 minutes

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Visit the only National Park in Ohio with a visit to Cuyahoga Valley. Between Akron and Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers visitors superb hiking trails, gorgeous waterfalls, and a railroad that offers train rides. Fall is especially scenic as the leaves are vibrant colors making it magical.

Popular sights include Brandywine Falls, Beaver Marsh, and Blue Hen Falls.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 hours and 30 minutes

Go To The Races

Experience on of the US’s most thrilling races by planning a trip to the Kentucky Derby in Louisville. The experience of seeing the derby attire paired with mint juleps is something you will have to do at least once in your life.

For those not ready to take on the Kentucky Derby, Keeneland in Kentucky offers a smaller, more laid-back racing experience. Guests still dress up in big hats and bright colors, but the crowds are not nearly as large.

See the Public Art In Dublin Ohio

Dublin has a rich Irish history that still shows throughout the city in historic Dublin’s downtown. The 19th-century architecture, limestone fences, and brick sidewalks are reminders of the past. Many different aspects of the Emerald City can be found throughout Dublin, Ohio, such as neighborhood pubs, fairy doors, and hosting one of the largest Irish festivals in the nation.

One of the unique things to do in Dublin, OH, is their art in public places tour. Scattered throughout the city are over 70 public art installations. Visitors can download the  free mobile tour  that will take them to 21 different art installations throughout the city and gives a description.

Get our full list of things to do in Dublin, Ohio !

Grab A Slice of Cake at the Cake Bake Shop

One of the most incredible bakeries in the United States is the charming  Cake Bake Shop  by Gwendolyn Rogers. The whimsical atmosphere paired with dreamy desserts makes visits to the Cake Bake Shop a staple among locals and visitors.

Offering afternoon tea service, a variety of sweet treats, and a full-service restaurant, the Cake Bake Shop can be entirely reserved for weeks to months.  That is why we recommend making a weekend out of it by checking out all the great things to do in Carmel, Indiana , in between bites of that delicious cake!

Stay Overnight in a Treehouse

The Mohicans offer various treehouse and cabin lodging options near Mohican State Park. These treehouses make the ideal remote getaway that lets guests reconnect with nature. During our weekend getaway, we stayed in the Tin Shed, which was incredible. However, read our tips for staying in the treehouses , so you know what to expect and what to pack!

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 2 Hours and 30 minutes

The Ark Encounter and Creation Museum

Tucked away in the rolling foothills of Kentucky is an attraction many have heard of but have yet to see.   The Ark Encounter  has sparked lively conversations and piqued the curiosity of many.

This full-size wooden replica of Noah’s Ark has attracted visitors from all over the world. It gives guests a glimpse into what life could have been like in the times of Noah and aboard the Ark.  Many guests opt to also visit the Ark’s sister attraction, the Creation Museum, which is roughly an hour away from the ark.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 42 minutes

Salt Fork State Park

Overlooking sparkling Salt Fork Lake, cozy cabins rest peacefully on the shoreline, making it a perfect relaxing Ohio retreat. Whether you want to spend time on the lake fishing, relaxing poolside with a cold drink, or getting out for a scenic hike, the cabins at  Salt Fork Lodge  offer guests a tranquil escape.

Salt Fork Lake Lodge is another one of our favorite weekend trips from Cincinnati.

Explore One Of Ohio’s Most Haunted Cities, Athens

Discover the secrets of this sleepy little college town by diving into the local eateries, uncovering ghost stories, all while savoring the beauty of the Appalachian foothills.

The eerie mysteries that shroud the Athens Lunatic Asylum have intrigued and peaked curiosities for years. Now known as The Ridges, the Athens Lunatic Asylum operated from 1874 to 1993.  Today the Ridges is owned by Ohio University. Visitors can still go tour the grounds and visit a small inside portion of the old Asylum, which has been converted into the Kennedy Museum of Art.

Athens embraces their spooky pastime with a Halloween block party, a picturesque fall backdrop, and the naturally, ghosts. While any town is bound to have a ghost story or two, Athens is filled with haunted locations, each with its own spooky tale to tell. 

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 2 hours and 38 minutes

Mammoth Cave National Park

Adventure seekers can take in the natural wonders of the world’s longest-known cave system with a visit to Mammoth Cave National Park. All cave tours require a ticket, including the popular Mammoth Cave Historic Tour or the self-guided Discovery Tour. Many tours book out in advance; therefore, booking early is recommended.

Roadtrip To Cleveland

Lake Erie’s scenic shoreline, and the breathtaking views at Cuyahoga Valley National Park, all paired with several unique Metroparks, provide plenty of  Outdoor Things to do in Cleveland with Kids . Situated in the northeastern portion of Ohio, Cleveland is one city that packs a big punch in a short visit that leaves a yearning to return.

Don’t miss Headlands Beach State Park offers a mile-long sandy beach, the longest in the state of Ohio or the iconic Squire’s Castle! I can guarantee you will want to make Cleveland a staple when choosing weekend trips from Cincinnati.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 3 hours 45 minutes

Visit Steel City

One of the top weekend trips from Cincinnati is to Pittsburgh, PA. Pittsburgh sits picturesquely at the meeting point of the Monongahela River and Allegheny River, where the Ohio River begins. Whether your crew is into museums, animals, or oddities, there are many unique things to do in Pittsburgh, with or without kids.

One tour we highly recommend is the Rivers of Steel which dives into the history of the steel industry in the city, and tours of the Carrie Blast Furnaces.

Serpent Mound and Ancient Earthworks

Ohio is home to an impressive collection of ancient Earthworks preserved for generations. The Great Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is the world’s largest effigy mound.

Ohio has one other well-documented effigy mound called Alligator Mound. Discover  Ohio’s Ancient Trail  to learn about the area’s rich history, earthworks, and more! The Ohio History Connection is a great source of information and guides to Ohio’s Earthworks.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 1 Hour and 10 minutes

Natural Springs Resort In New Paris, Ohio

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

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 1 Hour and 25 Minutes

Ohio’s Wine Country in Ashtabula

Ohio Wine Country is famed for its surrounding vineyards, historic covered bridges, quaint countryside and award-winning wines. Only five miles from the beautiful shores of Lake Erie in northeast Ohio, you’ll find the gently rolling hills of the Grand River Valley. Stay overnight at the Lodge at Geneva-On-The-Lake to catch stunning Lake Erie sunsets.

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 4 Hours and 30 Minutes

Guests will delight in discovering award-winning estate wines and numerous boutique wineries. Sip on a glass of wine along the waterfront in a century-old church, or catch one of the many wine-centered festivals and events held in the area.

Ohio is full of wine trails throughout the state; another fun weekend getaway is to visit a few stops along the trail!

Holiday World in Santa Claus

Celebrate the holiday season year-round with a visit to the charming small town of Santa Claus . True to its name Christmas takes center stage with a holiday-themed amusement park, attractions, and lodging. Write a letter to Santa at the Santa Claus Museum, grab a frozen hot chocolate from Santa’s candy castle, then see if you can find all of the Santa statues throughout the city.

The best place to visit in Santa Claus, Indiana, with kids, is  Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari . As the premier amusement park and waterpark in southern Indiana, Holiday World takes guests through different holiday-themed lands, and your ticket gives you admission to Splashin’ Safari water park. Ride the Turkey Whirl in Thanksgiving, grab a blue ice cream cone in the 4th of July, and hop a ride on Santa’s Sled in Christmas.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, Kentucky

Discover all the great things to do at  Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, KY .  Enjoy a calm breeze rustling the leaves of the old oak trees while picturing how life used to be. Chuckle at children’s laughter as they put the resident ducks to bed.  Then gaze at the serenity of a beautiful country sunset. 

Exploring Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, KY, will leave guests will endless options and programs to participate in. Did we mention you can stay on the property? This peaceful retreat is the perfect Kentucky weekend getaway. 

Travel Time From Cincinnati: 1 Hour and 30 minutes

There are so many great weekend trips from Cincinnati that it will be hard to choose where to go next! We hope our list has inspired you and introduced you to some new destinations.

Still, looking for more adventure? Check out our separate article: Short Day Trips From Cincinnati

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15 Easy Weekend Getaways From NYC

By Alex Erdekian

Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while. (As for visitors, there's no doubt appeal in doing as New Yorkers do and pairing your city break with a local-loved side trip.) 

Disappearing into the woods, soaking up salty sea air, or getting lost in wine country all have their charms.—and thankfully, all of the above is on offer within a few hours of Manhattan. From the Hamptons to the Adirondacks—and even a quick two-hour hop over to Bermuda—beaches, islands, and mountains are all easily accessible. Some of them may leave you wondering why New York's supporting destinations don't get more buzz in the first place. 

Below, the 15 best weekend getaways from NYC. Here's to checking them all of your bucket list. (For the best restaurants, hotels, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City travel guide .)

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

The good-time island: Fire Island, New York

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

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

The city break: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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

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

The posh beach hang: The Hamptons

About a two-hour drive

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

The quintessential beach town: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Just over an hour’s drive

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

Jessica Puckett

Caitlin Morton

Olivia Morelli

The eclectic island: Martha’s Vineyard

A five-hour ferry ride

Sometimes an island is the best escape. Martha’s Vineyard, with its lighthouses , arcades and carousels, sandy shores, and vast landscapes fits the bill. To get there, take a five-hour Seastreak Ferry from Midtown Manhattan, fly from JFK airport, or drive to Falmouth, Massachusetts (about 4.5 hours), and pay for overnight parking before grabbing the 30-minute ferry from there. The colorful, fairytale-ish town of Oak Bluffs is one of our favorite East Coast beach towns ; there, an ideal spot to post up is Summercamp Hotel (rooms from $235 per night). Deeper into the island, stop at Aquinnah, which feels martian-like with its clay-red lighthouse and cliffs.

The wine tour: The Finger Lakes

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

New York’s biggest wine region offers plenty of options for sampling its famous riesling—but wine tasting is hardly all the area has to offer. The adventurous can pencil dive into a gorge or wade under a waterfall. Or stay above water: Canandaigua Sailboard offers paddleboard yoga , kayaking, and windsurfing. Between four and five hours from New York City , the Finger Lakes are just far enough to be a true escape. From Ithaca to quaint Skaneateles, there are a number of places that make for an ideal home base. Boutique hotel Argos Inn in Ithaca (rooms from $180 per night) is one of them. We love the romantic renovated mansion for the original art prints in each room, some by Salvador Dalí. 

The island escape: Bermuda

About a two-hour flight

Out of all of the destinations on this list, Bermuda offers the most drastic change in scenery. It’s pretty unbelievable that this Atlantic island—with its powdery, pale pink beaches, drifting mangroves, and gleaming white churches—is a quick getaway from NYC; the flight from JFK takes just two hours. Jet over and consider sunning on the iconic Horseshoe Bay Beach, snorkeling around a shipwreck, or sipping a rum swizzle with fellow travelers. We have ideas about where to stay, too. You have options: a cheerful yellow one-bedroom bungalow with a rooftop patio in Southampton, as well as a mini villa with waterfront views in Pembroke. Alternatively, surround yourself in high style at the Rosewood Bermuda , the premiere luxury stay on the island. (Need more Bermuda travel inspiration? Explore our destination guide .)

The nautical overnight: Mystic, Connecticut

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

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

The classic coastal destination: Newport, Rhode Island

About a three-hour drive

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

The quick camping trip: Cold Spring

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

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

The off-season gem: Lake Placid

About a five-hour drive

Better known as a winter destination , Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics, has a wealth of outdoor recreation in the summer months, too. At glassy, serene Mirror Lake, visitors can paddle out on canoes and kayaks . On the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers will pass the shimmering lake, cedar trees, and a population of otters. The Olympic sites include the magical Cloudsplitter Gondola ride, a rifle range, a glass elevator, a speed skating oval, a zip line park, the Herb Brooks Arena, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. If you're craving some time indoors, don't fret: The area’s old-fashioned movie theater at Tupper Lake Municipal Park, Adirondack State Theater, is currently screening Nope . Bed down at Lake Placid Lodge (rooms from $499 per night), a former summer camp .

The mountain escape: The Berkshires

About a three-and-a-half hour drive

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

The great outdoors: Lake George

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

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

The peaceful spot: North Fork, Long Island

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

The artist’s haven: Woodstock

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

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The 18 best weekend getaways from new york city.

From picturesque beaches to dreamy mountain retreats, these weekend getaways are the perfect change of scenery.

18 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

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Fire Island, a weekend getaway about a three-hour drive east of Manhattan, offers sailing, clamming, bird-watching and more.

New York City has been described in many ways, but "relaxing" isn't typically one of them. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, relieve some stress by packing a bag and getting out of the city for a few days.

To help you pick the right destination for your much-needed escape, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to find the best weekend getaways from New York City. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend trip , a fun-filled family escape or some time with friends , these getaways have everything you need for a memorable trip.

Best Weekend Getaways From New York City

About two hours or less:

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Beacon, new york, philadelphia, north fork, new york.

About three hours or less:

Fire Island, New York

The hamptons, new york, the catskills, new york, cape may, new jersey, mystic, connecticut.

About four hours or less:

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Shelter island, new york, newport, rhode island, lake george, new york.

About five hours or less:

Saranac Lake, New York

Washington, d.c., the finger lakes, new york.

A quick flight:

Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario

Two hours or less.

This stunning mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania (about 100 miles northwest of New York City) has appealed to travelers for generations. Perfect for both families and couples, the Poconos offer everything from whitewater rafting tours to fascinating museums and manicured golf courses. If the kids are in tow, let them burn off their excess energy at a water park . Meanwhile, thrill-seekers will be right at home at one of the region's adventure parks, which feature aerial obstacle courses and an all-season tubing hill, and nature lovers will enjoy ample hiking and horseback riding opportunities. Plus, with several romantic restaurants and resorts , the Poconos area has distinguished itself as a premier honeymoon destination for lovebirds. Book your stay at The Lodge at Woodloch for a wellness-centered vacation complete with yoga and art classes, mindfulness experiences, and an adults-only spa.

[See more of the Poconos: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Located in New York's Hudson Valley, around 60 miles north of Manhattan, Beacon has transformed in the past two decades from a sleepy industrial town to a thriving arts community, making it the getaway of choice for relaxation-seeking city dwellers. Here, visitors can spend weekends (or a daytrip) perusing vintage shops and flea markets, kayaking along the Hudson River, and exploring Beacon's scenic hiking trails.

The first stop on your itinerary should be Dia Beacon, a renowned contemporary art museum housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory. One of the largest contemporary art galleries in the country, Dia's robust collection of work spans from the 1960s to the present. From here, take a stroll down Main Street. Lined with doughnut shops, cafes and art galleries, Beacon's main drag features hidden gems such as Hudson Beach Glass and the Towne Crier Cafe, a popular restaurant and live music venue. While there is plenty to do and see in Beacon, you can't leave without touring the ruins of Bannerman Castle. Situated on Pollepel Island and reachable by boat from late April to October, this Scottish-style castle was once a storage site for surplus military equipment and ammunition.

Not only is this quiet refuge less than two hours by car from Manhattan, but travelers can easily hop on the train to reach this destination as well: Take the Metro-North Railroad from New York City to Beacon for less than $50 round trip. There are also plenty of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to unique digs like The Roundhouse, an abandoned factory complex-turned-stylish boutique hotel.

Ditch the Big Apple and head about 95 miles southwest to the City of Brotherly Love. Known best for being the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia is an ideal weekend getaway for families and history buffs. Brush up on your founding fathers trivia on a walking tour of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center before strolling through Rittenhouse Square Park. From there, set your sights on the city's must-see museums: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation and The Franklin Institute are all good places to explore.

Philadelphia is also notorious for its substantial culinary prowess . Sure, the cheesesteaks are a must-try – stop in a shop like Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies to see for yourself what all the hype is about – but this city has a diverse food scene. If you have time to spare, check out the lengthy list of vendors in Reading Terminal Market, where you can sample everything from Dutch to Thai to Cajun fare.

With limited parking available in the city, it's best to stick with public transportation. New York City travelers can ride the Amtrak from Moynihan Train Hall to the William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in less than two hours. Once here, opt for lodging in Center City, where you'll find an array of coffee shops, posh restaurants and historic sites within walking distance of your hotel . Travelers particularly favor The Rittenhouse for its elegant accommodations and first-rate service.

[See more of Philadelphia: Best Things to Do ]

Long Island's northeastern peninsula, known as the North Fork, fits the bill for your next weekend trip if you like tranquil seaside villages and laid-back itineraries. Located about 80 miles east of Manhattan and directly north of the illustrious Hamptons, this quiet refuge is characterized by its wineries, beaches and friendly atmosphere. Not only is this short jaunt from the city an excellent place for a couples trips in New York state , but families will also find a plethora of exciting activities here as well.

To get here, catch the Long Island Rail Road commuter train from Penn Station to Greenport. When you arrive, make a beeline for the beach – Orient Beach State Park occupies a prime section of real estate along Gardiner's Bay and is a perfect place for kayaking, swimming and sunbathing. Meanwhile, wine aficionados can spend the afternoon at Macari Vineyards or Sparkling Pointe Vineyards and Winery while families hit up the Splish Splash water park. At the end of the day, unwind at the lovely Harborfront Inn at Greenport.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Long Island .]

Three hours or less

This secluded barrier island off the southern shore of Long Island is about 65 miles east of Manhattan and a popular getaway for New Yorkers – for good reason. Travelers will find an unspoiled island free of high-rise buildings and the vexing sounds of traffic, all within a few hours of the city. In fact, Fire Island is a car-free environment, making it the ideal choice for city dwellers in need of a short weekend escape. Here, visitors can enjoy activities like sailing, biking, clamming and bird-watching. Just keep in mind that Memorial Day to Labor Day is considered the busy season, so schedule your vacation outside of these dates if you want to avoid crowds.

Because you can't drive onto the island, the best way to get here is by taking the Long Island Rail Road to Sayville, Patchogue or Bayshore. These destinations have marinas that offer ferry service to and from Fire Island for a fee. When it comes to lodging, Fire Island's options are mostly small inns and hotels, but they fill up quickly, so book in advance to ensure you'll have accommodations. If you'd rather rough it, campgrounds are available within the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, at Smith Point County Park and at Watch Hill. Keep in mind, backcountry camping permits and daily campsite fees (typically starting at $25 per day) may be required for select areas.

Arriving in the Hamptons, it's easy to see why this seaside destination on eastern Long Island's South Fork has established such a name for itself. White sand beaches, untouched nature preserves and plenty of bars serving up frozen cocktails are just a few of the alluring images that may come to mind when you imagine an escape to the Hamptons. Luckily for New Yorkers, this little slice of heaven sits less than 100 miles east of Manhattan, making it easily accessible for weekend getaways and daytrips .

Lay down your towel on East Hampton's Main Beach or Southampton's Coopers Beach, then cast a fishing line from the shore of Montauk Point State Park. For a dose of culture, check out the Hamptons' illustrious art scene: The Parrish Art Museum and the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center (open seasonally) are two of the area's most prominent museums. When it's time to turn in for the night, save some coin by choosing a hotel in nearby Riverhead or by camping on the beach.

For nature lovers, this mountain range in southeastern New York is the perfect place to reconnect with the great outdoors. Home of the famous 1969 Woodstock music festival, the Catskills have been inspiring travelers for decades. Spend the weekend hiking the region's popular trails (the Kaaterskill Falls trail features the tallest waterfall in New York state), or get out on Alder Lake in a kayak. In winter, head here to see Hunter Mountain blanketed in snow and to take advantage of top-notch skiing and tubing opportunities.

In addition to outdoor activities such as hiking, fly-fishing, biking and zip lining, the Catskills are a haven for artists. Follow the Hudson River School Art Trail to witness firsthand the vistas that inspired artists like Thomas Cole. Meanwhile, music lovers and history buffs won't want to miss a visit to The Museum at Bethel Woods, a museum showcasing artifacts and stories from Woodstock. Before calling it a night at one of the region's fabulous hotels or resorts , stop by a microbrewery for a flight.

[Read:  The Top New York Ski Resorts .]

Those looking for a relaxing weekend should consider Cape May, a top romantic getaway destination in New Jersey . Located roughly 160 miles south of New York City, this enchanting East Coast town is beloved for its beautiful beaches, striking Victorian homes and laid-back atmosphere. After soaking up some rays at the beach (the Cove Beach is a traveler favorite), hit up the retailers at Washington Street Mall. Filled with small boutiques, ice cream shops and bookstores, this outdoor mall spans three blocks and is perfect for easygoing strolls.

Other can't-miss activities in Cape May include climbing the Cape May Lighthouse, watching the sun go down at Sunset Beach, embarking on a sightseeing cruise and taking a guided tour of the Emlen Physick Estate – Cape May's only Victorian-era house museum. Cape May offers a plethora of lodging options for weekend trips ranging from quaint B&Bs to hotels set in ornate Victorian mansions. Book a room in historic Congress Hall or The Southern Mansion for charming guest rooms and convenient amenities.

The quintessential New England town of Mystic is situated around 130 miles northeast of New York City and considered one of the top things to do in Connecticut . This seaside village has everything you'd want from a weekend getaway: museums, galleries, delicious eateries and historic landmarks. Head to Williams Beach Park for a quiet day by the water, then stroll through Mystic's historic downtown. Colonial-era sea captain's homes line the streets here, and there are countless places to dine and shop.

Families will also love the Mystic Aquarium for its educational exhibits and interactive habitats. Meanwhile, the Mystic Seaport Museum is a maritime museum that offers several activities for kids, including hands-on exhibits and a zoo garden. Just don't leave without snapping a photo of the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, a 1922 drawbridge that connects the Groton and Stonington sides of Mystic. When you're ready to retire for the evening, Mystic Marriott Hotel & Spa receives rave reviews for its comfortable rooms and ample business amenities.

Four hours or less

This rural region in western Massachusetts (about 150 miles north of Manhattan) has all the makings of a fairytale getaway with plenty of things to do . Picturesque mountain ranges, winding roads and idyllic towns are synonymous with the Berkshires, making this destination the perfect place to escape the hubbub of New York City. Bring your partner along to enjoy a romantic weekend filled with antique shopping, museum tours and scenic car rides through the region's lush countryside.

For breathtaking mountain panoramas, strap on your hiking boots and head to the summit of Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts. Meanwhile, culture hounds won't want to miss a chance to tour the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and The Clark Art Institute. In summer, catch a dance performance at the prestigious Jacob's Pillow or listen to live music on the lawn of Tanglewood, an extravagant music venue and summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Accommodations in the Berkshires run the gamut from B&Bs to luxurious hotels and resorts. Many past travelers say Canyon Ranch Lenox , while pricey, is worth the splurge for its wellness-focused amenities and indulgent spa treatments.

Only accessible by ferry, this hidden oasis between New York's North Fork and South Fork is perfect for a quick weekend escape from the city. You won't find rowdy nightlife or luxurious accommodations here, but that only adds to its appeal. In fact, nearly a third of the island is made up of the Mashomack Preserve, a protected habitat with 11 miles of coastline and more than 2,350 acres of tidal creeks, freshwater marshes, fields and woodlands. The preserve is also a major hub for bird-watching: More than 200 species of birds call this area home, although it is specifically known for its large population of nesting osprey.

Elsewhere on the island, visitors can lounge on Wades Beach, a family-friendly stretch of sand featuring lifeguards and a comfort station, or enjoy water sports at Shell Beach. Shelter Island is a premier spot for kayaking: The seasonally open Kayak Shelter Island offers single and double kayaks, along with paddleboard rentals. While the island has golf courses, boutique shopping and courts for petanque (a French game similar to bocce ball), undoubtedly the best thing to do here is nothing at all.

To get here, start by taking the Long Island Rail Road commuter train to Greenport, then board the North Ferry to Shelter Island. Alternatively, you can get here by driving to Sag Harbor and then loading your car onto the South Ferry. For lodging, Shelter Island offers a handful of small hotels, vacation rentals and B&Bs.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

If sandy toes and lobster rolls are calling your name, look no further than Newport, Rhode Island – one of the best spots for a weekend getaway in New England . This port town, located on the southern tip of Aquidneck Island and about 180 miles northeast of New York, is famous for its miles of pristine shoreline, upscale boutiques and ornate Gilded Age mansions, which you can ogle on a trolley tour . It is also lauded as one of the world's premier sailing destinations.

While here, gain your sea legs aboard a boat tour of Newport Harbor, or get your steps in on part of the Cliff Walk, a scenic 3.5-mile pathway that runs along Newport's eastern shore. Then, engage in some well-deserved retail therapy along Thames Street, which is lined with a plethora of shops and restaurants. Of course, you can't leave without touring The Breakers, Newport's iconic Renaissance-style "summer cottage," which is one of the top things to do in Rhode Island . When it's time to bed down, check out one of Newport's many lavish accommodations, such as The Vanderbilt and The Chanler at Cliff Walk .

[See more of Newport: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Situated in New York's Adirondacks region, roughly 200 miles north of Manhattan, Lake George is filled with fun activities the whole family can enjoy. Sink your toes in the sand at Lake George Beach, also known as the Million Dollar Beach: a kid-friendly stretch of sand complete with lifeguards and concession stands. Then, work up a sweat hiking Prospect Mountain and Shelving Rock Falls. For more of a thrill, check out Lake George's parasailing, whitewater rafting and zip lining courses.

If you're simply looking to kick your feet up on your weekend getaway, rent a pontoon boat and spend the day floating around Lake George. The region is also home to restaurants, the Adirondack Winery outpost in Lake George and several museums, including The Hyde Collection and the Fort William Henry Museum. After an eventful day of lake activities, head back to your plush accommodations at The Sagamore Resort to unwind.

[See more of the Adirondacks: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Five hours or less

This quiet village in upstate New York (around 300 miles north of New York City) is less crowded than the popular Lake Placid, making Saranac Lake an excellent choice for a weekend getaway from the city. Take advantage of this stunning lake by getting out on the water in a canoe or kayak, then get your heart pumping on the 3.7-mile Bloomingdale Bog Trail. For an extra dose of history, the Saranac Laboratory Museum showcases Saranac's interesting past as a tuberculosis treatment destination. Downtown, you'll also find a variety of shops, restaurants and art galleries to keep you occupied for hours, plus little ones will enjoy the Adirondack Carousel, which runs Friday through Sunday.

Saranac Lake is also a popular winter destination thanks to its plethora of outdoor sports (think: snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and ice fishing) and traditional winter activities such as the annual Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, which takes place every February. The event also features a fireworks display and multiple parades. When it comes to lodging, visitors will mostly find cozy cabins and B&Bs here, but a handful of luxury hotels are available as well. For the ultimate in comfort, book your stay at Hotel Saranac, a historic property with modern amenities.

Famous for its slew of historic landmarks, monuments and museums (many of which are free to enter), Washington, D.C., has long appealed to historians and politicos. However, there's more to the nation's capital than meets the eye. With more than 20 neighborhoods to explore and innumerable things to do , Washington is a treasure chest waiting to be unlocked. Find killer nightlife and impeccable dining in the Shaw and U Street area, upscale shopping in Georgetown, charming 19th-century row houses in Dupont Circle, and a bevy of historic attractions on Capitol Hill.

If you're only visiting for the weekend, expect an action-packed schedule. Start by hitting up one of the city's first-rate museums: The National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Gallery of Art are a few traveler favorites. Then, take a stroll along the Tidal Basin (you can also get out on the water by renting a paddleboat) or relax on the lawn of the National Mall. Here, you'll have easy access to attractions like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and its Reflecting Pool, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol. Note, though, that while many of D.C.'s attractions are free, some museums may require timed-entry passes to be reserved ahead of time, so plan as far in advance as possible.

Located roughly 225 miles southwest of NYC, Washington is an easy drive by car or bus. However, the best way to get here is by train. Take Amtrak's high-speed Acela or Northeast Regional train to Union Station and shed up to 90 minutes off your travel time. Plus, because Washington frequently plays host to celebrities, politicians and business tycoons, there are plenty of top-notch accommodations to choose from once you arrive. For a luxurious stay, book a room at The Jefferson , a sophisticated property with European flair plus a restaurant and a cocktail bar on-site. An added bonus? The Jefferson is located only a mile away from the National Mall, so you'll be right where the action is.

[Read: The Best Washington, D.C., Tours .]

Bordering Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Bay, New England's largest city sits 215 miles northeast of New York City; travelers can opt to travel here by car, bus or train. Whether you're drawn here by the cobblestone streets, the historic landmarks or the city's strong baseball roots (a visit to Fenway Park for a game or behind-the-scenes tour can't be missed), Boston has all the ingredients you need for a memorable weekend getaway – just remember to pack your walking shoes .

After you've successfully trekked the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail (or hop-on, hop-off bus tour) to some of Boston's most famed attractions – including the Paul Revere House, Old North Church and Faneuil Hall Marketplace – find a shady spot to rest in Boston Common or the Boston Public Garden. For a dose of culture, check out the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, which features landscaped gardens and an extensive collection of European, Asian and American art. When you've tired yourself out from a day of sightseeing, hang up your coat in one of Boston's premier hotels . Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston and the Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf are two of the city's top properties, both offering a lengthy list of amenities and plush accommodations.

[Read:  The Top Boston Harbor Cruises .]

New York's Finger Lakes – a collection of 11 lakes that includes the popular shorelines of Seneca Lake, Skaneateles Lake and Cayuga Lake – are revered for their spectacular water sports opportunities, scenic state parks and top-notch wine. As one of the chief wine regions in the country and the largest wine-producing area in the state of New York, the Finger Lakes region has earned its reputation as a top destination for romantic weekend getaways.

For short stays in the Finger Lakes, following the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the best way to see a lot of local wineries in a little amount of time. With nearly 30 wineries and several restaurants set along the route, the trail is perfect for leisurely car rides in the countryside (just be sure to assign a designated driver ahead of time). Opt for a refreshing riesling, the region's signature wine, or expand your palate on a tasting tour.

Meanwhile, nature lovers should head to Robert H. Treman State Park or Watkins Glen State Park for a chance to see breathtaking waterfalls. If you're looking for a small-town atmosphere with local shops and museums, you can't go wrong with Skaneateles Lake. Here, you'll also find a variety of charming B&Bs and inns like the Mirbeau Inn & Spa , a traveler favorite. Other top lodging options in the Finger Lakes region include the Inns of Aurora and The Statler Hotel at Cornell University , both of which offer easy access to Cayuga Lake.

A quick flight

If you're willing to hop on a short flight (or take a bus tour), you can enjoy a weekend marveling at one of the most beautiful and impressive natural wonders of the world: Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is less than a two-hour flight from New York City – and, while this powerful waterfall is sure to take your breath away, it isn't the only reason to plan a weekend getaway to the area. With beautiful botanical gardens, wineries and casinos, this famous tourist town has everything you need for a fun-filled weekend away. Take advantage of both the American and Canadian sides of the Niagara River by bringing your passport with you.

For a classic Niagara Falls experience, don a poncho and board the Maid of the Mist boat tour. This famed attraction is one of the best ways to see the falls up close, but it's impossible to guarantee you won't get wet. If you'd rather view the falls from a drier and less crowded vantage point, head to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. Thrill-seekers can also experience the falls on Journey Behind the Falls, which takes participants directly behind the thunderous waterfall, or on an exhilarating jet boat tour. When it's time to turn in, visitors on the American side of the falls can book their stay at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino , while Ontario-based guests spend a cozy night in the well-appointed Harbour House Hotel .

[See more of Niagara Falls: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
• The Top Weekend Getaways From Washington, D.C.
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont

Tags: Travel , Weekend Getaways , Vacation Ideas , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.