There’s something magical about a weekend getaway—whether it’s a cozy escape to a coastal town, a scenic road trip through the mountains, or a long weekend in a romantic inn. These quick adventures offer the perfect opportunity to recharge, explore, and indulge without needing to book a week off from work.

In this guide, we’ll share the best weekend getaways across the U.S., highlight top road trip routes, recommend hidden gems, and offer travel tips to make your next weekend trip unforgettable.

Why Weekend Getaways Are the Ultimate Reset

The Power of a Short Escape

You don’t need to go far to find the perfect weekend getaway. In fact, short trips are ideal for:

• Saving money on airfare or hotels
• Exploring charming small towns
• Reconnecting with nature or a loved one
• Satisfying your wanderlust between longer vacations

Weekend getaways also allow you to experience boutique inns, historic districts, and farm-to-table dining without the pressure of planning a big itinerary.

Best Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

1. Napa Valley, California – A Wine Lover’s Dream

For a romantic weekend getaway, it’s hard to beat Napa. With rolling vineyards, world-class wineries, and cozy bed and breakfast options, this is the perfect romantic escape.

Top Napa experiences:

• Sip a glass of wine at Castello di Amorosa or Domaine Carneros
• Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner in Yountville
• Take a hot air balloon ride over the valley
• Relax at a spa with views of the vineyards

Where to stay: Try a charming inn or boutique hotel with on-site tastings and views of the vines.

2. Savannah, Georgia – Southern Charm and History

Steeped in elegance, moss-draped oaks, and cobblestone streets, Savannah is one of the best weekend getaways for culture lovers.

Don’t miss:

• Touring the historic district
• Exploring local galleries and artisan markets
• Dining on shrimp and grits at a farm-to-table restaurant
• Booking a ghost tour or riverboat cruise

Stay at: A bed and breakfast near Forsyth Park or a historic inn with antique furnishings and rooms with fireplaces.

3. Lake Tahoe – Year-Round Outdoor Adventure

Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or lakeside lounging, Lake Tahoe delivers the ultimate outdoor adventure for a long weekend getaway.

What to do:

• Hike to a waterfall in Emerald Bay State Park
• Go paddle boarding on Lake Tahoe
• Enjoy après-ski cocktails at a rooftop bar
• Try your luck at nearby casinos

Pro Tip: Winter is perfect for snow sports, while summer is ideal for beach time and boating.

4. Chicago, Illinois – Urban Energy Meets Lake Views

A weekend trip to Chicago offers a mix of cultural gems, skyline views, and culinary greatness. This city by the bay (Lake Michigan, that is) blends big city vibes with Midwestern hospitality.

Must-dos:

• Visit the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum of Natural History
• Stroll Navy Pier or Millennium Park
• Catch the bar scene in Wicker Park or River North
• Sample deep-dish pizza or tacos from a street cart

Stay at: A Hyatt with lake views or a boutique hotel in the Gold Coast neighborhood.

Top Road Trips for a Long Weekend

5. Blue Ridge Parkway – North Carolina to Virginia

Known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” this scenic road trip winds through the Blue Ridge Mountains with plenty of overlooks, trails, and small towns along the way.

Highlights:

• Hike through Pisgah National Forest
• Visit Asheville for its breweries and music scene
• Stay in a cozy inn in Blowing Rock or Boone
• Take in the fall colors on the winding roads

Perfect for: Couples, friends, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful, picturesque route.

6. White Mountains, New Hampshire

New England charm meets wilderness wonder in the White Mountain National Forest, one of the most underrated long weekend destinations.

Bucket list experiences:

• Drive the Kancamagus Highway
• Take the Mount Washington Cog Railway
• Try horseback riding in Franconia Notch
• Explore quaint villages like North Conway

Where to stay: A rustic inn or cabin near a waterfall or hiking trail.

7. Coastal Maine – Lighthouse Hopping and Lobster Rolls

Want a weekend getaway by the sea? Head to Maine for rocky coastlines, lighthouses, and mouthwatering seafood.

Things to love:

• Explore the harbor in Camden or Bar Harbor
• Hike in Acadia National Park
• Eat fresh lobster at a dockside shack
• Tour local galleries and boutique shops

Travel tip: Aim for late spring through fall to enjoy the coastal weather and dining scene.

8. Big Sur, California – A Coastal Classic

If you're looking for a weekend getaway with jaw-dropping scenery, Big Sur delivers. Winding along the Pacific Coast Highway, this area offers dramatic cliffs, misty coastlines, and endless ocean views.

Why it’s the perfect weekend getaway:

• Explore the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, full of cute shops, wine tasting rooms, and charming small inns
• Hike to McWay Falls in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park
• Take a dip at Garrapata State Beach
• Watch the sunset from the Bixby Bridge

Where to stay: Book a romantic inn or go for luxury glamping in the redwoods for the full unplugged experience.

9. Santa Barbara, California – Wine, Beach, and Boutique Vibes

Dubbed the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is one of the best weekend getaways for couples or friends. This coastal city blends beachy bliss with a thriving culinary scene and stunning Spanish-style architecture.

Weekend trip highlights:

• Sip local wines in the Funk Zone
• Visit the Old Mission and nearby historic sites
• Hit the beach or rent a bike along the ocean path
• Treat yourself to a luxury spa day or rooftop cocktails

Where to stay: Many Hyatt-affiliated boutique hotels offer ocean views, rooftop pools, and rooms with fireplaces for a cozy night in.

10. Joshua Tree National Park – Desert Magic and Starry Nights

For something totally different, spend a long weekend getaway under the stars in Joshua Tree National Park. This desert escape is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to unplug.

Things to do on this weekend trip:

• Hike the trails to Skull Rock or Ryan Mountain
• Stargaze from your Airbnb’s hot tub
• Shop quirky local art in downtown Joshua Tree
• Try glamping or rent a rustic desert inn

Pro tip: Spring and fall offer the best weather, but winter is perfect for quiet trails and cozy evenings.

Underrated Small Towns Perfect for a Weekend Trip

Sometimes the best weekend getaways are hiding in plain sight—charming small towns full of personality, great food, and easy access.

11. Galena, Illinois – Midwest Gem with 19th-Century Charm

Galena is one of those easy weekend spots that feels like a step back in time. Its well-preserved downtown is full of antique shops, wine bars, and Victorian architecture.

Weekend getaway ideas:

• Tour Ulysses S. Grant’s home
• Visit local distilleries and wine cellars
• Stroll the riverwalk or bike the Galena River Trail
• Stay at a cozy bed and breakfast

12. Woodstock, Vermont – Autumn’s Favorite Small Town

Famous for fall foliage, Woodstock is ideal for a long weekend filled with outdoor activities, cute shops, and country roads.

Things to enjoy:

• Explore local farms, creameries, and covered bridges
• Take a scenic drive through the Green Mountains
• Book a spa day or curl up at an inn with a fireplace
• Take time to enjoy the view—it’s always postcard-worthy

Travel tip: Book early in September and October for the best leaf-peeping season.

13. Charleston, South Carolina – Southern Elegance and Seaside Air

Looking for romantic weekend getaways with a little history, food, and sun? Charleston is perfect.

Why it’s the perfect weekend getaway:

• Relax at a bed and breakfast near Rainbow Row
• Visit plantations or stroll the Battery promenade
• Hit the beach at Folly or Sullivan’s Island
• Enjoy the food scene with local seafood and sweet tea

Where to stay: Historic inns in the French Quarter offer charm, comfort, and walking distance to everything.

Travel Tips for Your Weekend Getaway

Whether you're planning a last-minute escape or a carefully curated long weekend, here are some pro tips to make the most of your time:

Pack Smart for a Quick Escape

• Use a weekender bag or backpack to avoid overpacking
• Check the weather and dress in layers
• Don’t forget chargers, reusable water bottles, and snacks for the road trip

Maximize Your Time to Explore

• Leave early Friday or late Thursday if possible
• Book accommodations close to attractions
• Choose one or two must-do activities, then leave space to roam

Book Your Stay Early

Popular weekend getaways fill up fast—especially during holidays and peak travel months. Whether you want a boutique inn, Hyatt resort, or bed and breakfast, try to book at least 3–4 weeks in advance.

Final Thoughts: Planning the Perfect Weekend Getaway

From coastal escapes to mountain road trips, the U.S. is packed with destinations that are perfect for a weekend trip. Whether you’re seeking romantic weekend getaways, outdoor activities, or just a peaceful place to take a dip and unwind, there’s a long weekend adventure with your name on it.

Remember: The best weekend getaways aren’t always far from home—they’re the ones that give you just enough time to rest, explore, and return recharged.