Whether you’re looking for a close-to-home getaway you can take now, or planning a long overdue romantic trip, consider one of these amazing destinations. These are the best long weekend getaways in the US.
Santa Barbara, California
With its iconic oceanfront pier and eclectic culture, Santa Barbara offers a combination of slow living and interesting sightseeing. From fortune tellers to unique boutiques and a whole row of ice cream booths that are sure to delight your senses, Santa Barbara really shines when it comes to its sunsets, which are best viewed from its famous Harbour.
The Florida Keys
From Islamorada to Key Largo and Key West, the Florida Keys are made up of hundreds of islands just 90 miles north of Cuba. Travelers flock here to enjoy the keys’ laid-back lifestyle, warm turquoise waters, and cooling ocean breeze. It has all the trappings of a Caribbean vacation without the need for passports or international flights. The keys are also a popular shore excursion for Caribbean cruise ships, some of which might even offer a cruise promotion to extend your trip.
Sedona, Arizona
Arizona’s red rock country puts you within driving distance of some of the nation’s most spectacular national parks and monuments, including the Grand Canyon and Havasu falls. You can spend days exploring backcountry trails and hiking along the south rim here, and there are plenty of wellness-focused resorts to unwind after a day of activity. The west rim trail is very scenic with lush green spots all around and great for adventure lovers.
Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe offers ski terrain, nature, and the culture of a city trip all in one. Just 16 miles from town, you can hit the slopes at Ski Santa Fe, explore the city’s world-famous art scene with nearly 300 galleries dotted around town, and the pueblo-style homes and buildings are an aesthetic attraction in and of themselves. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and a sunhat in the summer, as this is a walkable city.
US Virgin Islands
With approximately 50 islets, cays, and islands in the US Virgin Islands, there’s no shortage of white sand beach shores, historic cultural attractions, and verdant hills to explore. Not only are the Virgin Islands visually stunning, but they offer an opportunity to escape the winter sun and immerse yourself in a diverse culture with a rich history.
Californian Wine Country
Between Napa and Sonoma, you’ll enjoy incredible natural beauty and world-class wines. Northern Napa boasts villages such as St. Helena where you can board the Napa Valley Wine Train which offers a mix of full and half-day tours. Sonoma Valley has a wine country town feel like no other, while the Wildlife Rescue Preserve Safari offers a bucket-list-worthy glamping experience.
Maui, Hawaii
This archipelago in the Pacific is one of the most romantic places in the world. The Aloha state, as its affectionately called, is known for its collection of luxury resorts, gorgeous scenery, excellent surf spots, waterfalls, and unmatched whale watching.
Remember to stop by the Polynesian Cultural Center for a crash course in Polynesian culture, side-splitting comedy, and activities like hula dancing, cultural games, tattoo art, and a scrumptious buffet.
New York
New York is one of the most famous cities in the world and visiting this iconic landmark for the first time will feel like walking through a movie set, as there are famous sites on every turn. This includes attractions like Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Fifth Avenue, and of course, the Statue of Liberty. Remember to attend a Broadway show or two for some serious bragging rights.
San Fransisco
This is another appealing weekend getaway city, with multiple attractions for visitors. There are plenty of things to do here from the majestic Golden Gate bridge to golden gate park the pacific coast zoo which is home to over 2000 endangered, exotic rescued animals. Make the most of your weekend trip by hopping on the top deck of a hop-on hop-off bus or enjoy a cruise along the San Francisco waterfront.
Montreal, Canada
With its centuries-old historic sites, quaint cafes, and vibrant modern attractions, Montreal is the perfect destination for travellers looking for a unique cultural experience. Here, old churches dating back to the 1700s stand in stark contrast to sleek and modern office buildings, creating a striking juxtaposition of architectural styles.
Adventure lovers can enjoy year-round outdoor activities such as skiing, ice skating, hiking, and city’s beautiful parks.
