When the wanderlust strikes and you only have a few days to spare, there are plenty of destination options in the U.S. for great weekend getaways! Whether you’re from a larger city nearby or just visiting and looking for a quick getaway from your main destination, these locales are perfect for a weekend of exploration or relaxation.
Immerse yourself in nature, explore vibrant city streets, take in some local history, or relax by the water. Each destination has a unique charm and the perfect offering of activities to fill your weekend. These spots are easier to maximize your time in, rather than places like New York City or Los Angeles, where the sheer volume of things to do and spread-out nature can make it overwhelming for a short weekend. If you’re just going for the weekend, make the most of it!
Let’s look at some of the best U.S. Weekend getaways, from the West Coast to the East Coast and in between!
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These are the weekend getaway spots I talk about in this post. If you’d like to jump ahead to a specific location, click on the links below:
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What to Pack in Your Carry-On
The best part about taking weekend getaways? There’s so much flexibility and convenience when it comes to packing! If you’re a light packer, then this is perfect for you. If you like to bring backup outfits and “just in case” items, then feel free to fill up your carry-on bag.
But don’t forget to leave room to pack souvenirs and purchases on the way back!
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10 Great Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
I love this list of great weekend getaways to take in the U.S.! There’s a destination on this list for everyone, thrill-seekers, sunbathers, adventurers, and spa-lovers.
Places like Taos, New Mexico, and Marathon, Florida, are good weekend getaways for couples, and places like Palm Springs, California, and Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, are perfect for girls weekend getaways.
Whatever kind of trip you’re looking for, check out these last-minute getaways this weekend and have an adventure!
Lake Tahoe, California
Lake Tahoe is one of my favorite weekend getaways in California! The crystal-clear waters and surrounding Sierra Nevada mountains make for a picturesque scene, and there are so many outdoor activities to enjoy. From skiing in winter to hiking and boating in summer, Tahoe caters to adventure-seekers year-round.
Go all out with a sailing cruise and helicopter tour, or have a laid-back, relaxing weekend at the Edgewood Tahoe Resort’s spa. The area can be pricier, especially during peak seasons, but its compact size makes it easy to get around by rental car.
Book Your Stay: Lake Tahoe Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Palm Springs, California
Palm Springs is another fantastic California getaway, a desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture and vibrant arts scene. Luxuriate in boutique hotels and spas or explore the beautiful desert landscapes.
Downtown Palm Springs is fairly walkable, but I do recommend renting a car if you want to explore the nearby Joshua Tree Park on your own instead of on a tour (like this one!). Don’t miss the Aerial Tramway ride up the San Jacinto Mountains for incredible views of Palm Springs.
Book Your Stay: Palm Springs Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Sedona, Arizona
If you’re looking for weekend getaways in Arizona with beautiful desert views and spas, look no further than Sedona! The red rock vistas and energy vortexes provide a gorgeous backdrop for spiritual rejuvenation and outdoor adventures, where you’re invited to connect with nature and yourself.
Whether you’re venturing into the wilderness for a sunrise hike, enjoying the art galleries and local shops, or indulging in holistic spa treatments, Sedona caters to a range of interests. There’s even a UFO and stargazing tour!
Book Your Stay: Sedona Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Taos, New Mexico
Discover the soulful town of Taos, where the Sangre de Cristo Mountains meet a vibrant arts community and a rich tapestry of Indigenous and Spanish cultures. Explore its historic adobe buildings, including the iconic Taos Pueblo, a living Native American community and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The town has a laid-back atmosphere with an array of galleries, shops, and eateries. More adventurous visitors can enjoy white water rafting down the Rio Grande or a scenic plane tour of the surrounding mountain range. There’s also the nearby Taos Ski Valley to enjoy during the winter season.
Book Your Stay: Taos Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s rich history and blend of cultures are displayed along its famous River Walk, where dining and shopping mix with live music shows and cultural performances. The city is an affordable destination with a walkable downtown area and a reliable public transportation system, making it one of the easier weekend getaways in Texas.
In addition to historical sites such as the Alamo, you can take a scenic night tour and do the Riverwalk boat cruise, attend a real rodeo, or have a haunted dining experience before visiting other haunted sites around town.
Book Your Stay: San Antonio Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Marathon, Florida
For tranquil beach weekend getaways in Florida, Marathon’s stunning beaches and clear waters are hard to beat. The laid-back island vibe is perfect for travelers looking to unwind and disconnect, with excellent snorkeling and fishing opportunities for the more active traveler.
This destination is on the way to the more well-known Key West, and its natural beauty makes it a hidden gem. Snorkel the protected Sombrero Reef, parasail over the water, or go on the ultimate big-game fishing experience!
Book Your Stay: Marathon Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled at the doorstep of the Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg offers a cozy mountain town vibe with a variety of attractions and natural surroundings. The town is affordable and easy to explore on foot, with a convenient trolley system to help you get around.
From hiking and wildlife viewing to exploring local crafts and moonshine distilleries, Gatlinburg has an inviting, rustic charm. Zipline your way across the Great Smoky Mountains, tour the Moonshine distilleries, and take a guided hike through the National Park.
Book Your Stay: Gatlinburg Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville’s artistic spirit and historic architecture are beautifully complemented by the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. The city’s downtown area is a walkable urban space filled with galleries, boutiques, farm-to-table restaurants, and a large selection of local breweries.
The overall vibe is laid-back and welcoming, with plenty of options for outdoor adventures, from hiking the trails to floating the river through town. If you aren’t much of a hiker, try an e-bike or Jeep tour, or take a canoe tour down the river to several brewery stops.
Book Your Stay: Asheville Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Lake Placid, New York
In the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid is one of the best New York weekend getaways for a laid-back, tranquil retreat. The village of Lake Placid is compact and easy to walk around in, with a selection of shops and restaurants that reflect the rustic charm of the region.
It also has an Olympic history! Explore the Olympic facilities like the ski jump, hike the surrounding mountain peaks, or take a private boat out on the lake. In the winter, you can enjoy a snowmobile tour through the Adirondacks.
Book Your Stay: Lake Placid Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
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Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Martha’s Vineyard exudes New England charm with its lighthouses, sandy beaches, and quaint towns, making for a relaxed and upscale weekend getaway.
The island’s six towns each have their own character, from the historic whaling captain’s homes of Edgartown to the colorful gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs. Explore the island with a private, custom bus tour or by sailing on a 60-foot sailboat for a memorable weekend trip!
Book Your Stay: Martha’s Vineyard Hotels
Plan Your Trip: Tours & Activities
Get Ready for Some Great Weekend Getaways!
There are so many wonderful places to visit in the U.S. for a quick weekend getaway. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced adventure or a laid-back retreat, there’s something for you to enjoy. So, it’s time to pack your carry-on bags and hit the road!
Where are you going to getaway to this weekend? Let me know in the comments!
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Looking for more tips and resources for planning great weekend getaways or ultimate European vacations? Check out my favorite travel products and some of my other posts on fantastic destinations to inspire your next trip!
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