Are you looking for the best weekend getaways in the US for a quick escape from everyday life?
Heading out for a weekend trip allows you to escape the busyness of life without having to take much vacation time from work.
Whether you’re a nature lover and want to explore some national parks or a fan of big cities, there are so many great places to escape for an easy weekend trip in the US.
The Best Weekend Getaways in the US
1. New York City, New York
New York City must be the most popular weekend getaway in the US.
From the shining lights of Times Square to the towering skyscrapers in Manhattan, it’s recognizable from anywhere.
Start your visit wandering down the streets of Times Square and enjoy all of the shopping. You can even stop into iconic stores such as Hershey’s Chocolate World and M&M’s World.
Have a picnic in Central Park, visit the iconic Empire State Building, and learn about the history of 9/11 at the memorial.
Of course if this weekend trip is your first time in New York you can’t miss the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island. And stop to take a picture of the iconic Brooklyn Bridge.
No matter what you do in NYC though, it’s a great way to spend a weekend!
Also Read:
- New York on a Budget: Insider Tips for Things to Do in NYC Beyond the Obvious
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2. Stillwater, Minnesota
Many people overlook Minnesota when planning a vacation, but it really should be visited more! The small town of Stillwater makes for a perfect place to escape to.
It’s located on the banks of the St. Croix River and offers visitors a chance to explore Minnesota’s first official town.
Wander along the sidewalk that follows the river and enjoy the views of boats passing under the Stillwater Lift Bridge.
Main Street in Stillwater also offers a lot to visitors, from delicious restaurants to adorable local shops.
Stop into the Tilted Tiki for a unique bite to eat, and then grab dessert at Minnesota Nice Cream. I really love stopping at MN Nice Cream because they have such unique desserts. My favorite is the Fun Cone, which has fruity pebbles!
Stillwater is also home to a huge variety of boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts for your stay. The Water Street Inn is one of the best, and it features a nice rooftop restaurant.
3. San Diego, California
Known for its location along the coast of Southern California and its idyllic beaches, San Diego makes a great weekend getaway for the entire family.
There are plenty of beaches to relax on and soak up the warm California sun. Even during the winter months, San Diego is still pretty warm!
Being located right on the border with Mexico, you can also enjoy some fantastic Mexican food here. Old Town is a good area for that, and a nice place to learn more about the city’s history.
And with famous destinations like the San Diego Zoo and LEGOLAND California, your kids will also have a blast!
For nature lovers, escape to Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, which offers nice hiking trails with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and its rugged coastline.
If you’re looking for an iconic place to stay in San Diego then check out the historic Hotel del Coronado.
Also Read:
- Fun Things to Do in San Diego
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- The Best Rooftop Bars in San Diego
- Five of The Best Day Trips From San Diego
4. Bayfield, Wisconsin
If you want to escape some of the crowds of larger cities, pay a visit to Bayfield, Wisconsin for your US weekend getaway.
This charming small town sits on the shoreline of Lake Superior and boasts some of the most beautiful views of the largest freshwater lake.
One of the best things to do here is explore Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. This stunning stretch of land features views of sandstone cliffs and caves that line the shore.
You can hike along the shore and take in the views, or get on the water in a kayak and wander into the caves. This can either be done with a guide or by yourself.
And if kayaking isn’t your thing you can also book a boat tour that takes you from Bayfield to the Apostle Islands.
Bayfield makes for the perfect escape for travelers who love the outdoors.
5. Nashville, Tennessee
Are you a music lover? Then Nashville, Tennessee, the Music City, is going to be the best place for you! A getaway here guarantees a vibrant and unforgettable experience!
Enjoy the music scene at iconic places like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Or make a stop at some of the bars and live music venues to enjoy live music. Ole Red and Honky Tonk Central are two of the best places on Broadway that have live music often.
Broadway Street is one of the best places to just wander and dip into the bars, restaurants, and venues that line the street.
Also Read: Visiting Gatlinburg & the Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
6. Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minnesota isn’t just a land of snow and ice, it has plenty of fun activities for travelers also! In the sister city of St. Paul, Minneapolis, you can explore all sorts of fun things.
Spend time on the lakes, as Minnesota is known as the Land of 10,000 Lakes. Bde Maka Ska and Lake Nokomis are two local favorites.
Make a stop at the Mall of America for some shopping and see the city’s art scene at the Minneapolis Institute of Art or the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden.
For history buffs, visit one of the many museums, like the Mill City Museum. Then spend some time wandering downtown and visiting places like First Avenue.
Also in Downtown, there are many great places to eat near the University of Minnesota, and Dinkytown offers a unique feel for visitors.
I lived 30 minutes from Minneapolis and one of my favorite places to go was Minnehaha Falls because it allows you to escape into nature without leaving the city. I also really love Theodore Wirth Regional Park.
7. Chicago, Illinois
As the largest city in the Midwest, and often listed as one of the most beautiful cities in the US, Chicago is worth seeing.
Known for its tasty food, great music scene, and architecture, Chicago is easy to add to your bucket list.
Start in Millenium Park and snap a picture or two in front of the giant Bean sculpture. Then head over to Willis Tower to walk over the thrilling Skydeck. Below, you’ll see the massive city through a glass floor.
Chicago is well known for its deep-dish pizza, so be sure to try a slice or two. Going on a food tour is a great way to experience the food scene like a local.
Chicago is also located on the shores of Lake Michigan, so you can visit Navy Pier and enjoy views of the Great Lake.
Also Read: Outdoor Activities in Chicago Recommended by a Local
8. Branson, Missouri
Known as the ‘Live Entertainment Capital of the World,’ Branson is a fantastic weekend getaway for those who love live shows.
There are over 100 shows happening in Branson at a time, played in over 20 theaters. Everything from comedy to live music and even unique groups like the Blue Man Group. Nearly everyone will find a show they love.
Along with the performances, you can also enjoy things like Silver Dollar City, an amusement park, the Titanic Museum, and the Hollywood Wax Museum.
Dolly Parton’s Stampede is another popular attraction for dinner and a show.
9. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is one of the most well-known cities in the United States and makes for a fun weekend getaway.
Spend some time wandering down the Las Vegas Strip, bouncing in and out of casinos, and checking out all of the delicious places to eat.
Head over to Fremont Street for a whole new experience of things like listening to live music and watching people soar overhead on a zip line.
After the sun has gone down, head back to the Strip and watch the Bellagio Water Show at Fountains of Bellagio.
Also Read: Things to Do in Las Vegas Besides Gambling
10. Zion National Park, Utah
For nature lovers, Zion National Park is the perfect spot to escape for a weekend. Plus, it’s only 2 hours outside of Las Vegas.
Zion has stunning natural features that are must-sees. From the bright red cliffs of Angels Landing to the towering canyon walls of the Narrows, you’ll feel like you’re on another planet.
Go on a few hikes, such as the two I named above, which are some of the most famous hikes in the country.
During my recent visit to Zion, I learned that if you’re going to hike the Narrows, you should go as early as possible to avoid crowds! Nevertheless, it’s a phenomenal hike and is one of my favorites!
Or just take a ride on the park shuttle to enjoy the views. You can also drive through the park, as long as it isn’t on the main road, and stop at many of the viewpoints on your own.
11. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a beautiful city located on Puget Sound in the Pacific Northwest. It’s well known for having fantastic views of mountains and being the Rainy City.
While in Seattle, be sure to see the famous Space Needle. Either view it from the ground or ride the elevator to the top and see aerial views of Seattle.
A great way to enjoy the nature around you is to go whale watching. Orcas and humpbacks migrate through the Sound, and you can spot them from tour boats.
A sunset sail along the coast of Seattle is also an experience I can highly recommend.
And, while you’re in Seattle, do make some time to visit the Pike Place Market and grab a cup of coffee at the Original Starbucks!
12. Miami, Florida
If you’re in need of a tropical beach vacation for your USA weekend getaway, Miami is the perfect destination for you!
Miami is well known for its warm, sunny weather and its vibrant nightlife. It’s also the gateway to the beautiful Florida Keys.
Spend some time relaxing on the beach in Miami, particularly Miami Beach. Here you’ll find towering palm trees and soft, white sand.
At night, head out to the many bars and venues with live music and experience the parties that never end in Miami. The nightlife is one of its most famous features!
If you have time, make a trip down the Florida Keys and try out snorkeling or scuba diving to spot some tropical marine life.
Also Read:
- Miami Travel Guide: A Complete Guide to Plan Your Trip
- Water Activities in Miami to Try
- The Best Places to Visit by Boat in Miami
- The Best Campgrounds in Florida
13. Bar Harbor, Maine
A unique national park in New England is Acadia National Park, which is easily explored in just a few short days, with the small town of Bar Harbor as your base.
Start your visit on Cadillac Mountain, where you can be one of the first people in the country to see the sunrise. You will need a permit for this!
Then head down for some hiking. The Beehive Trail and the Jordan Pond Path are two of the best. You can also walk along the Ocean Path, which leads you right along the coastline.
Be sure to see the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and grab a popover at Jordan Pond House. Then head into Bar Harbor to wander Main Street, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy the adorable small town.
If you have time, head over to Ellsworth and stop at Momo’s Cheesecakes. It was one of the highlights of my recent trip to Maine!
Also Read: RVing in Maine – Must-See Destinations & the Best Campgrounds
14. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Located on a peninsula of Massachusetts on Cape Cod Bay, Cape Cod is a fantastic place for a weekend getaway in the US.
This small area is well known for its beautiful sandy coastline. It’s home to small fishing villages, lighthouses, and has a long historic background. Cape Cod is where the Mayflower made its first landing back in the 1600s.
Today, you can spend time exploring the Cape Cod National Seashore, go whale watching off the coast, and wander through the museums.
A few of the most famous ones include the Sandwich Glass Museum, the Pilgrim Monument, and Provincetown Museum.
15. Jackson, Wyoming
As the gateway to Grand Teton National Park, it’s no wonder why Jackson, Wyoming has become so popular.
Surrounded by the jagged peaks of the Teton range and having plenty of fun activities for the entire family, Jackson makes for a perfect escape from everyday life.
Attend a show at the Jackson Hole Playhouse, and dip into a few of the many Old Western-themed shops.
If you’re visiting in winter, hit the slopes at the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. And during the summer months, head into Grand Teton National Park.
Go for a hike in the park and keep an eye out for wildlife such as moose and bears. You might even see a moose wandering the streets of Jackson!
16. San Francisco, California
The city of San Francisco is famous for many things, from the Golden Gate Bridge to the island of Alcatraz.
A weekend trip to San Francisco will be filled with all sorts of fun adventures, for everyone from city goers to nature lovers.
For city goers, visit the viewpoint of the Golden Gate Bridge, visit Chinatown, and wander the coast at Pier 39. I can also highly recommend booking a tour to see Alcatraz.
For those who prefer to be in nature, head up to Point Reyes National Seashore. This stunning coastline has hikes along the ocean and offers the chance to spot whales. There’s also a lighthouse here to see.
My favorite hike in Point Reyes is the Chimney Rock Trail! It has some of the most beautiful views of the coastline and last time we were there we saw quite a few whales in the distance.
Also Read: 15 Must-See Places in San Francisco
17. Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
Located just over an hour’s drive north of Denver, Rocky Mountain National Park is one of the most famous parks in the country.
Drive along Trail Ridge Road from Estes Park to Grand Lake and stop at the many viewpoints of the Rocky Mountains.
Hikes can be found everywhere you look, with the most popular being along Bear Lake Road. Here you can find trails that lead to several alpine lakes and waterfalls.
While you’re in the area, explore some of Estes Park, the small town outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. Small shops and restaurants line the streets and make for an adorable mountain town.
Also Read: What to Bring on a Hike – Hiking Essentials Not to Forget
18. Portland, Oregon
Known by many nicknames, Portland, Oregon is one of the best places in the PNW for a short getaway.
Portland has so many great ways to get outdoors and embrace the outdoorsyness of the Pacific Northwest. From Washington Park to the Portland Japanese Garden, there are many ways to enjoy nature.
Enjoy the fascinating views of Mount Hood in the distance, and maybe even take a day trip out to Oregon’s tallest mountain.
Other fun activities include checking out Powell’s City of Books, wandering around Tom McCall Waterfront Park (especially during spring for cherry blossoms!), and attending the Portland Saturday Market.
I lived in Portland for 6 months and loved visiting the unique McMenamin restaurants. My favorite was the McMenamins St. Johns Theater & Pub.
You can easily spend a weekend here in Portland for a great time for the whole family.
19. Moab, Utah
If you’re looking for a great outdoorsy city to visit for a weekend getaway, then Moab is perfect for you!
As the gateway to Arches National Park, Moab offers the chance to explore one of Utah’s 5 national parks.
Arches is home to over 2,000 named arches as well as many more pinnacles, balanced rocks, and more. The park provides visitors with plenty of opportunities to get up close and personal with these arches on hiking trails.
A few of the most popular ones are Delicate Arch, the Windows, and Landscape Arch.
You can also check out Dead Horse Point State Park, which is just 40 minutes away, and Corona Arch.
Other adventures in Moab include skydiving, river rafting, and riding ATVs through the desert.
Wrap-Up: The Best Weekend Getaways in the USA
Escaping for a weekend to somewhere new is the perfect chance to see more of the country without taking a lot of time off.
And with so many phenomenal locations to see, from coastlines to mountains and charming towns, it’s easy to make a US weekend getaway.
Whether you were looking for the best weekend getaways for couples, a solo trip, a family getaway, or a nice place to visit with friends, I hope this list has given you some great inspiration!
Also Read:
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- The Most Beautiful Cities in the US
- How to Travel Cheap in the US
- Unique Hotels in Southern California Worth Staying At
- Cheap Extended Stay Hotels in the USA
- 7 Lessons Learned From Biking Across the USA
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