fun weekend trip places

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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The best weekend trips in the U.S. for 2024

The best weekend trips in the U.S. help you see the country one unexpected destination at a time

We love a European vacation as much as the next person, but perhaps less so these days. Despite the many flash sales luring us abroad, there’s just too much to see and do right here in America. The rise in low-cost airlines expanding their routes throughout the U.S. has also refocused our wanderlust, nudging us toward short escapes closer to home. And with limited time and budgets, a weekend getaway in the U.S. is just the vacation we all need right now.

Our picks bypass the obvious choices, say New York or L.A., in favor of smaller cities with booming art scenes, lesser-known towns with incredible restaurants and coastal spots with plenty of room to spread out on the sand. You’ll find fewer crowds and plenty of small-town charm at these unexpected destinations. Looking for someplace to go in 2024? These places should absolutely be on your travel radar this year.

RECOMMENDED: The best cities to visit in the U.S.

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Best weekend trips in the U.S.

1.  Cape May, New Jersey

Fun travel fact: “America’s Oldest Seashore Resort” can be found on the southern tip of the Garden State. Yes, Cape May is technically on the Jersey Shore but it’s the antithesis of the Jersey Shore you see on MTV—in lieu of Snookie sightings, nightclubs and tanning parlors, you’ll find Victorian mansions, horse-drawn carriages, gas-lit cobblestone streets, blooming hydrangeas and a famous lighthouse.

So why should you visit Cape May? Most people will tell you the long stretches of beaches and colorful architecture alone are reason enough to come. But locals will opine it’s about the passionate community, walkability to everywhere, the parks peppered with grandiose trees, bangin’ local music scene, mom-and-pop shops, the Coast Guard base, well-manicured lawns, family-owned restaurants, impeccable homes and its charm. Cape May is also a gourmand’s dream where perfectly seasoned, fresh-caught seafood dots the menus of all the town’s best haunts. 

Where to stay: If modern and minimalist are your vibe, look no further than La Mer Beachfront Resort . The family-owned property recently underwent a major renovation and the hotel offers the island’s most swanky accommodations, swathed in beige and white hues and replete with traditional-yet-contemporary furnishings.

Don’t miss it: The Lobster House is Cape May’s most popular restaurant and the dining experience here beside the Fisherman’s Wharf is a must. Order a cold beer with steamed Maryland crabs and fried clams dockside and soak in the sights of the wharf.

Nearest airport:  Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)

2.  Burlington, Vermont

Burlington’s charm as a waterfront university town is well known, but with two Vermont chefs and eateries in the running for the 2024 James Beard Awards, it’s a necessary getaway for food and drink lovers. From pastry chef Amanda Wildermuth’s tahini sundae (think sesame caramel and crumbled halva) at the Eastern Mediterranean-influenced Honey Road , to spicy brussels sprouts with a cult following (hello, citrus-garlic chili sauce, golden raisins and sunflower seeds) thanks to chef Mojo Hancy-Davis’s farm-to-table menu at May Day —plus a rotating selection of craft beers from the small experimental brewery Foam Brewers —Burlington’s restaurant and bar scene is bustling. 

Where to stay: Rustic ski lodge meets bougie boutique property at Hotel Vermont , where wood-burning fireplaces, stone walls and views of Lake Champlain are the perfect backdrops for sampling the hotel’s long list of craft beers and cocktails.

Don’t miss it: The killer onion soup and maple creme brulée at Leunig’s , Church Street’s iconic bistro.

Nearest airport:  Burlington Airport (BTV)

3.  Bentonville, Arkansas

More than 100 miles away from a major city (if you can call Tulsa, Oklahoma that), you'll find charming Bentonville, Arkansas at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. The birthplace of Walmart (by way of Sam Walton’s first Five and Dime, opened in 1950) has flourished beyond its retail reputation, becoming a destination for art enthusiasts, cyclists, and curious travelers interested in an equally charming and albeit less crowded, alternative to nearby Southern capitals.

Your weekend in Bentonville, which celebrates its 150th anniversary , starts with the familiar—a visit to downtown’s Walmart Museum , because why not?—before venturing to the popular: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a sprawling cultural institution whose permanent collection of works spans five centuries and is always free to visit. Plus, its onsite chef offers a host of unique dining experiences.

Then, it’s time to head to the woods. With a trail system that wraps around the museum’s 120-acre park and a host of paved paths throughout the city, Bentonville’s natural landscape is ripe for exploring on foot or two wheels. Airship Coffee at the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is a delightful open-air cafe where you can power up or cool down between runs. 

Where to stay: 21c Museum Hotel  is equal parts boutique hotel and hip gallery with a dedicated exhibition space. Contemporary artworks and sculptures are sprinkled throughout the property.

Don’t miss it:  The Bentonville Film Festival , chaired by Academy Award Winner Geena Davis, celebrates its 10th anniversary this summer. The annual event screens shorts, docs, features, animated movies and more films, focusing on diversity and inclusion.

Nearest airport: Fayetteville, Arkansas (XNA)

4.  Rockland, Maine

This small but vibrant coastal town is quintessentially Maine. Rockland packs a punch with stunning views from its rocky coastline plus cultural offerings and top-notch dining. Art enthusiasts can visit The Farnsworth Art Museum  or the Center for Maine Contemporary Art  while those in search of local bounty can hit up the weekly  farmers' market  and gems like Rock City Coffee . There’s waterfront dining aplenty, but few might think to venture inland to the nationally-lauded Primo . Have a night out at the historic Myrtle Street Tavern, Liberator Brewing Company  or The Strand Theater . As one of the biggest lobster shipping centers in the world, Rockland celebrates the coveted crustacean each August at the hugely popular Maine Lobster Fest . Explore Penobscot Bay on a cruise and you’ve completed a true Maine adventure. 

Where to stay: Overlooking the harbor, the luxurious, design-forward 250 Main Hotel  is in the perfect location for exploring Rockland.

Don’t miss it: Walk the mile-long granite breakwater path to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the city from the water plus the chance to explore the 100+ year history of the lighthouse.

Nearest airport:  Knox County Regional Airport (RKD)

5.  Topeka, Kansas

As an under-the-radar capital, Topeka’s got a surprising number of hipster brewpubs, including the Blind Tiger Restaurant & Brewery , the Norsemen Brewing Company , Iron Rail Brewing and the Happy Basset Barrel House —which includes an attached dog park and a flamingo scavenger hunt to keep humans entertained between pints. Downtown is walkable, and neighborhoods are parkable with a selection of locally owned eateries like the Blue Moose Bar & Grill . Check out NOTO , the arts and entertainment district with art studios, antique stores and a monthly First Friday ArtWalk. At Gage Park, ride a mile-long mini-train and visit the new giraffe exhibit opening March 10 at the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center . Don your jumpsuit for the Evel Knievel Museum before it moves to Las Vegas, and catch a show at Topeka Civic Theatre , which hosts (they say) the country’s oldest, continuously-running community dinner theater. Topeka was founded in 1854 by antislavery colonists, and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site commemorates the landmark Civil Rights case that ended legal segregation in public schools. 

Where to stay:  The  Cyrus Hotel pairs luxury with Midwest charm in a century-old building with striking city views from upper stories.

Don’t miss it: The capitol with its mural of abolitionist John Brown roaring with his rifle and Bible. Stay downstairs to roll a quarter down the sloping tile tunnel, then ascend to the cupola through a series of terrifying stairs and landings suspended in the middle of the vast dome.

Nearest airport:  Kansas City Airport (MCI)

6.  Mendocino, California

Located a couple of hours north of the Bay Area, Mendocino feels like a storybook out of a romance novel. The area blends charming New England architecture with a dramatic California coastline. And Mendocino’s remote nature means it never feels like it’s trying too hard or overcrowded. Imagine charming inns with roaring fires, homemade breakfast, and views of waves crashing on the rocky shore. Restaurants that serve fish caught nearby earlier that day. A quaint downtown with Victorian buildings turned into independent shops. Trails that lead you through redwoods and onto the beach. 

Where to stay: SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm , a recently refreshed bed and breakfast that features an 1867 country manor, a modern lodge, adorable onsite llamas and homemade breakfast delivered to your room.

Don’t miss it:  Town favorite   Fog Eater Cafe  is a fully vegan , New Orleans-inspired eatery that draws a crowd. 

Nearest airport:  Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS)

— Clara Hogan

7.  Covington, Louisiana

Just across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans is the charming city of Covington, where you can discover Louisiana culture at a slower pace. The quaint downtown, dotted with oak trees and historic buildings, is packed with independent boutiques and lively art galleries. Restaurants like Del Porto , Lola’s  and The Gloriette  stand up to the best in New Orleans, and there's no shortage of spots serving up boiled seafood or po' boys. Outdoor enthusiasts can bike the Tammany Trace , paddle the Bogue Falaya River or visit a gator ranch . There’s entertainment aplenty too: spring and fall bring outdoor concerts, the Three Rivers Arts Festival  is a draw in November and monthly block parties from March through October on Columbia Street celebrate what makes Covington unique.

Where to stay: The historic, family-owned Southern Hotel  offers luxurious accommodations, fabulous food and plenty of Southern hospitality.

Don’t miss it: Head to the Abita Brewing Company  for locally brewed beers featuring local ingredients. Take a tour and stick around for a bite, and maybe catch a band at one of the brewery’s frequent weekend events.

Nearest airport:  New Orleans Airport (MSY)

8.  Lenox, Massachusetts

An enchanting New England town tucked away in a particularly gorgeous section of the Berkshires, Lenox is the perfect home base for a trip spent exploring Western Massachusetts. Culture vultures have long flocked to the town thanks to Tanglewood , the summertime home of the Boston Symphony, and the innovative local theater group Shakespeare & Company . Now, upscale accommodations like 33 Main and the recently renovated Cornell Inn are providing a more luxurious mountain escape. (Those looking for true luxury should pencil some time in at Miraval Berkshires .) History lovers can arrange to tour nearby architectural stunners like Ventfort Hall and The Mount , the one-time home of author Edith Wharton. A day spent taking in the past can also be complemented with some more of-the-moment culinary offerings in downtown Lenox, like the intimate wine bar Brava .

Where to stay: The Lenox Collection is a trio of historic inns in the heart of the city.

Don’t miss it: A picnic spent taking in a live concert at Tanglewood is a local tradition for a reason. Check out this summer’s offerings , including highlights like James Taylor and En Vogue (on separate nights).

Nearest airport:  Bradley International Airport (BDL)

9.  Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Tucked in the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh offers a getaway combining city amenities, lots of green space and plenty of charm. The city dazzles in the springtime with beautiful parks (meander through Point State Park and visit Blue Slide Park made famous by rapper Mac Miller). On a rainy day, head to The Warhol Museum dedicated to Pittsburgh’s own Andy Warhol. A ride on the incline , a funicular, is a must for a thrilling city view. Eat pierogies (and lots more) at the renowned Apteka , which specializes in central and eastern European cuisine, then grab tiki drinks at Hidden Harbor .

Where to stay:  Kimpton Hotel Monaco  is located Downtown within walking distance of bars and restaurants as well as transit access.

Don’t miss it:  Picklesburgh , this summertime food festival celebrates all things pickled—the weirder, the better. (2024 dates TBA)

Nearest airport: Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

10.  Greenville, South Carolina

Just one hour from bustling Asheville lies the charming city of Greenville, which tends to fly (mostly) under the radar—for now, at least. Its walkable downtown area is chock-full of quaint shops like the nostalgia-inducing Mast General Store, diverse dining options (ranging from delectable Mexican street food at Pap’s Tacos  to contemporary Italian at Jianna ), and abundant local artwork. We recommend grabbing coffee at Methodical Coffee  and heading to Falls Park on the Reedy , which offers excellent views of the surrounding falls. In the afternoon, refuel with an ice-cold beer at Southernside Brewing Co . as you stroll or bike along the 22-mile-long Swamp Rabbit Trail .

Where to stay: Situated right on the banks of the Reedy River, the luxe Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville  is the perfect place to stay when in town.

Don’t miss it: Greenville hosts over 300 events each year, including the trademark Fall for Greenville , a three-day festival that puts the city’s many food, drink, and entertainment offerings on full display.

Nearest airport: Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)

11.  Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

If you like miles of beachfront living, an expansive boardwalk, and an adorable town center with lots of quaint shops, then President Biden’s favorite summer retreat should be yours, too. Rehoboth Beach sits along Southern Delaware’s culinary coast, an area rich in agriculture and aquaculture contributing to the cluster of award-winning restaurants that includes DRIFT and One Coastal , run by James Beard Semifinalist chef 2024 Matt Kern.

Where to stay: Book a room at the waterfront Bellmoor Inn & Spa , an elegantly understated property less than a 10-minute walk from the beach.

Don’t miss it: Dogfish Head Brewery originated in these parts and has sprawled out quite a bit since launching the first brewery in the nation’s first state. Check out the Brewings & Eats in Rehoboth, where you can grab a bite just next door to Dogfish’s original location.

Nearest airport: Philadelphia International Airport

12.  Mystic, Connecticut

Mystic, a small coastal Connecticut town once known for its shipyard and seaport, is now a quaint New England getaway full of destination-worthy dining. Metro-North trains directly from New York City and a fully walkable downtown make Mystic an easy weekend getaway, no car required. The scenic walks by the water, small shops and boutiques, plus a longstanding independent bookstore  make for an excellent few days of entertainment between eating pizza at  Nana’s Bakery , noshing on pastries at  Sift Bake Shop , sipping craft brews at  Barley Head Brewery  or slurping up oysters during happy hour at  The Shipwright’s Daughter .

Where to stay:  The Whaler’s Inn , a historic 45-room boutique property in the heart of town that’s dog-friendly and welcomes guests in the lobby with a fireplace, warm beverages and cookies.

Don’t miss it:  Book dinner at  Oyster Club , a locally beloved and owned restaurant serving farm-to-table upscale fare (don’t skip the cornbread with honey butter, or anything with seafood), plus high-end cocktails.

Nearest airport:  Providence T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)

13.  Kingston, New York

Kingston, NY, may have a rich history as the state’s first capital, but it is so much more than its past. Located 91 miles outside of New York City, it offers a fun weekend getaway with great hikes, historic landmarks, trendy stores and hangouts like Milne Antiques and Kingston Standard Brewing Co. , good food at restaurants like Ship to Shore and Lola Pizza , and a robust arts scene centered around the Ulster Performing Arts Center that operates inside a restored 1926 theater. The city is also home to festivals, including the Artists Soapbox Derby (August), and the Trolley Museum of New York , which offers a 1.5-mile ride on weekends and holidays along the Rondout Creek waterfront to Kingston Point Park.

Where to stay:  The  Hotel Kinsley  for a beautiful, historic stay or  the Newkirk , an entire 1856 home you can rent on Airbnb.

Don’t miss it:  Rough Draft , a bookstore and taproom, where you can enjoy a pint with a good book and friends.

Nearest airport: Newburgh Airport (SWF)

14.  Narragansett, Rhode Island

The seaside town of Narragansett is just 22 minutes by car from the Gilded Age glamour of Newport, but you’d never know it. Narragansett is beloved for its laid-back and low-key vibes. It’s also a popular spot for surfing, and travelers of all experience levels can sign up for lessons and/or rent gear from local businesses like Narragansett Surf & Skate Shop . Whether or not you choose to actually explore the water—you can, alternatively, simply walk along the beach and soak up the sun on your own—hit up neighborhood faves like Cool Beans Cafe for acai bowls or Fuel Coffee Bar for a cold brew and a fresh pastry.

Where to stay: The 31-room Shore House  blends nautical charm and Victorian elegance; plus, we’d be remiss not to highlight the beachy-chic accommodations and Instagram-worthy ocean views.

Don’t miss it: Snag a table at The Coast Guard House Restaurant and savor fresh seafood like freshly shucked oysters, hearty New England clam chowder, and gooey lobster mac.

Nearest airport: Westerly Airport (WST)

15.  Saugatuck, Michigan

This welcoming West Michigan town combines local charm with a beautiful lakefront setting to provide visitors with the platonic ideal of a midwestern beach getaway. Long known for its vibrant arts community thanks to the Saugatuck Center for the Arts and the Chicago Art Institute’s Oxbow School of Art and Artists’ Residency, the laid-back destination is now emerging as a culinary hot spot. Virtue Cider , founded by the former brewmaster of Chicago’s Goose Island Brewery, turns out award-winning cider while Pennyroyal Café & Provisions , helmed by former Chopped winner Missy Corey, serves elevated takes on local specialties like fried perch. Meanwhile, James Beard-nominated eatery The Southerner serves dangerously (in a good way) spicy fried chicken sandwiches. The town has also been long known for welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers thanks, in part, to lively party spots like The Dunes Resort .

Where to stay: The Lake Shore Resort , just north of Saugatuck, provides stunning views of Lake Michigan from a dramatic bluff.

Don’t miss it: Tulip Time , a weeklong festival dedicated to all things tulips, kicks off on May 4.

Nearest airport:  Muskegon County Airport (MKG)

16.  Sarasota, Florida

Nestled between Tampa and Fort Meyers, Sarasota boasts nearly 40 miles of white sand beaches and wildlife along Florida’s balmy Gulf shoreline. But this quaint beach town also touts a quirky history and some serious urban amenities. Circus mogul John Ringling moved his shows here for the winter in 1927. Since then, the city’s become an eclectic cultural hub, home to the renowned Sarasota School of Architecture, numerous respected art programs, museums and performance venues.

Work up an appetite exploring Sarasota’s galleries, botanical gardens and famed keys like Siesta and Longboat, then bounce around its bustling waterfront downtown for dinner and nightlife—but not before indulging in homemade pies from Yoder’s Amish Village . This spring, Circus Sarasota celebrates its 26th anniversary.

Where to stay: The Lido Beach House ’s charming mid-century modern digs are a short, scenic bridge away from downtown.

Don’t miss it: John Ringling's former home, Ca’ d’Zan , is a Venetian Gothic-style stunner with ornate interiors and sweeping views of Sarasota Bay. It also served as the location for Miss Havisham’s dilapidated mansion in the 1996 film  Great Expectations.

Nearest airport:  Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)  

17.  Laughlin, Nevada

Located 90 miles south of Las Vegas, Laughlin, Nevada is a smaller, quieter version of Las Vegas with a small-town feel. With less than 10,000 permanent residents, Laughlin boasts eight casinos, dozens of casino resort restaurants like the Western-themed Claim Jumper, and bars with live bands like Losers Lounge along the Colorado River. Surrounded by the Mojave Desert and boasting a beautiful mountain backdrop, Laughlin is a paradise for gamblers and outdoor enthusiasts who can kayak or river cruise along the Colorado River that runs through the heart of town, hike the Colorado River Heritage Trails that runs parallel the water, explore stone mazes at Laughlin Labyrinths , and chill in a poolside cabana at Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort and Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino. Nearby, sunbathers can enjoy Lake Mohave’s 200 miles of shoreline and explore its coves and wildlife, drive Route 66, visit Hoover Dam , and visit Arizona’s oldest distillery, Desert Diamond Distillery .

Where to stay: Most of Laughlin’s 9,000 hotel rooms are less than $50 a night. Aquarius Casino Resort is the largest.;

Don’t miss it: Stroll along Laughlin Riverwalk , a paved walkway along the Colorado River that connects most of the casinos.

Nearest airport:  Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport (IFP)

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Welcome to Epic Travel Plans!

Epic Travel Plans

Destinations that will leave you Breathless. Plans to make it happen

30 Best Trips with Friends! FUN Weekend and International Places to Go

But before you decide on a destination, be sure to keep the personalities and preferences of your friends top of mind. Some friends are awesome to lay on a beach with, but not so great for trekking through the jungle or road tripping through Europe.

My top tip: Embrace the personalities and preferences of who you’re traveling with, and let it guide your destination.

After getting trip ideas below, check out my travel planning guide to help you make it epic.

Disclosure: This post includes affiliate links to excellent travel-related products. If you use the links below to make a purchase, we’ll receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

15 FUN Places to go with friends on the weekend

I highly recommend OFTEN taking fun trips with friends near where you live. Short and sweet trips are a great way to “test the waters” of traveling with friends without putting too much stress on a relationship. Especially if your travel styles are quite different.

Here are awesome places to go with friends on the weekend, including ideas across the US and Canada.

1. HOUSEBOATING near you

My very first BIG trip with friends was a houseboating weekend in beautiful British Columbia. It was perfect! 

We soaked in the hot tub and slid down the waterslide when we got too hot. Ate way too much ice cream. Met some cuties. And we even crashed. Yup, we did. There’s nothing like a little drama to pull you together! (Make sure you get insurance, ‘cause those boats are harder to steer than they look!)

Find the nearest pretty lake country near you, book a car and make it happen. It’s like camping but with a waterslide.

2. Fun LOS ANGELES weekend getaway for girls

A girls trip to LA is pretty classic. Strut your stuff like Pretty Woman on Rodeo Drive. Hit up the star-prone restaurants. And time it with the Oscars to experience the red carpet. It’s possibly THE most epic place to travel with friends on the weekend.

Or, if you’re not into the Hollywood mayhem, stay on beautiful Santa Monica Beach. Cycle The Strand bike path along the waterfront. Ride the ferris wheel on the pier. And people-watch while enjoying incredible beachfront restaurants.

Where to stay with friends in Los Angeles:

• Casa Del Mar resort and spa (Santa Monica): Right on Santa Monica Beach, with an outdoor pool, restaurants and live music on Sundays. Every room has a hydrotherapy spa tub and floor-to-ceiling windows, some with an ocean view.
• Beverly Wilshire (Beverly Hills): As close as you can get to Rodeo Drive, overlooking Rodeo Drive and the Via Rodeo fountain and steps. An epic place for a trip with friends to explore Rodeo Drive’s boutique shops and cafes.
• SIXTY Beverly Hills (Beverly Hills): Five blocks from Rodeo Drive along Wilshire Blvd, with a pretty rooftop pool and bar.

3. FLORIDA KEYS road trips with friends

A road trip from Miami to the tip of the Florida Keys is the perfect mix of beach and culture. It’s only about 3.5 hours, with plenty of time to stop along the way.

If you’re not from Miami, spend a day exploring its museums, Bayside Marketplace at the waterfront, or cultural neighborhoods like Little Havana.

Then, rent a car and head out to Key West. Along the way, stop to play with dolphins, feel the sand between your toes, and eat and drink with a view. Want more adventure? Where better to go skydiving with the girls than in Key West?!

Find all you need to plan your Florida Keys road trip with friends .

4. NEW ORLEANS weekend getaway with friends

Visiting the plantations in Louisiana would certainly make for a memorable travel experience with friends in the USA. Stay in a former plantation mansion, the elegant Nottoway Plantation that dates back to the 1850s. It’s the south’s largest antebellum mansion, located right on the Mississippi River. It features antiques and fireplaces in the rooms. Plus, an outdoor pool, hot tub, onsite dining and self-guided tours.

Plantations to visit near New Orleans, Louisiana:

• Oak Alley Plantation : Known for the stunning Oak-lined path entrance to this sugarcane plantation. Features tours of the “big house” (with a pretty wrap-around upper balcony), slave cabins, expansive garden and exhibits.
• Whitney Plantation : Famous for its ground-breaking slavery museum, with restored buildings and educational guided tours.
• Destrehan Plantation : Established in 1787, this sugar plantation was the site of one of the three trials following the 1811 Slave Revolt. Features interpretive tours, exhibits and pretty grounds.

5. Fun trips with friends to NEW YORK CITY

New York City can be anything you and your friends want it to be. 

Times Square and Fifth Avenue are perfect for high-end shopping, flashing lights and nightlife. Its museums, Broadway theater and The Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts are epic for the culturalists. Foodies will love exploring Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn. And for those who love relaxation, Central Park, Staten Island and Brooklyn waterfront promise amazing views. I’d argue that NYC is one of the BEST places to travel with friends.

On my trip with friends to NYC, we stayed in a boutique hotel in the Upper West Side . Within a block, we had a small pastry shop, grocery store and plenty of cute cafes. We could easily walk to Central Park and Riverside Park (perfect for a You’ve Got Mail walking tour). And since we were surrounded by residential streets, I got to meet so many dogs out for their walk! Plus, easy subway access to everything else.

Find your perfect place to stay in Manhattan , Brooklyn , Staten Island , Queens and the Bronx (a 3-part series).

6. SEATTLE jazz weekend trips with friends

I love Seattle, Washington. Its Pike Place Market and waterfront restaurants. Plenty of jazz clubs. And lots of excellent shopping and coffee shops, too. Seattle has beautiful waterfront parks, artsy museums, Space Needle views, and boat tours to stay busy. Time it with a concert, too!

When I visited Seattle with one of my best friends, we LOVED the comfortable beds and pillows at the Staypineapple Maxwell Hotel . You simply cannot get a better sleep! It’s colorful vibe is super fun, too, and it has an indoor pool and bikes you can use. Price includes wifi.

Now, as much as I love the Staypineapple beds, you can’t get a better location than The Edgewater . It’s right at Pier 67, with fabulous views of Elliot Bay and the Olympic Mountains. Elegant rooms have fireplaces, cozy furnishings and spa bathroom. The property features an onsite restaurant, gift shop and coffee bar. Price includes wifi and downtown shuttle.

7. Fun LAS VEGAS weekend trips with friends

I’ll admit that Las Vegas is pretty low on my list of places to visit, but I understand the appeal – especially with friends. Awesome shows. Epic shopping. Sights you just won’t see anywhere else.

If you want to embrace the chaos, Las Vegas Strip is the place to stay. If you want to come up to breathe, consider a place like Tahiti Village Resort & Spa near the airport and outlet mall.

You’ll also find some incredible house rentals on VRBO , both near The Strip or near the mountains.

8. Epic CANYON road trips with friends

A great add-on to a friends Vegas trip, especially for the outdoorsy adventurers at heart, is a 2-day canyon road trip . Hike the amazing canyons of Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Grand Canyon North Rim and Antelope slot canyon.

You have some incredible options for places to stay, too. Under Canvas near Lake Powell has lovely tents with a cozy wood-burning stove and private balcony with canyon views. Or book the luxury Amangiri spa resort, tucked right into the rocks. It has an onsite restaurant, bar, concierge, sauna and spa. And the rooms look AMAZING.

9. AMUSEMENT PARK hopping trips with friends

Are you guys dare-devils? How fun would it be to go amusement park hopping together?!

Top on my list are Coney Island in New York City and Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California. In Canada, Montreal’s Six Flags is lots of fun.

To visit a bunch on one trip, take a road trip through California or Pennsylvania. Yup, Pennsylvania! Check out this USA Today article for 17 awesome parks.

10. BEACH resort weekend getaway with friends

You can have an amazing beach resort getaway with friends even without leaving the continental USA. One of my favorite spots is about half an hour from downtown Jacksonville, Florida, at the lovely Ponte Vedra Beach seaside community. It’s also known as San Pablo Island, and is a great mixture of relaxing beaches and bustling Jacksonville nearby.

A wonderful place for a beach weekend getaway with friends is Ponte Vedra Inn and Club . Its beach and gardens are beautiful, with warm and comfortable rooms. Enjoy four heated pools, bikes, seven restaurants and lounges, and plenty of onsite shops and boutiques. Despite all of its amenities, it feels like a charming boutique inn.

Our equivalent for relaxation in Canada is Prince Edward Island. It’s super low-key and perfect for friends who just want to chill.

Dalvay by the Sea Hotel is classic and luxurious, located on the north shore. It’s inside a national park and has an onsite restaurant, bar, tennis courts and bike rentals. Or stay in one of many lovely historic inns in Charlottetown. I highly recommend the charming Fairholm National Historic Inn .

11. Fun ARTSY places to go with friends

Here are two very different types of artsy places to go with friends.

First, East Hampton Art Bed and Breakfast on Long Island. This sprawling property is perfect for art lovers and those looking for a refreshing getaway. Relax in the outdoor pool and jacuzzi while admiring the meditation garden, waterfalls, and lotus pond.

And second, head to Memphis to meet the king! If your friends are big music buffs, you’ll enjoy exploring the Memphis Rock ‘n Soul Museum, Gibson Guitar Factory, and Orpheum Theatre. And of course, the iconic Beale Street’s shops and restaurants. 

Stay at the Peabody Memphis with an onsite dining room, spa, indoor pool and luxurious bathrobes. And don’t miss Peabody’s “March of the ducks” tradition!

12. LAKEFRONT retreat weekend trips with friends

Head to Upstate New York for a weekend trip with friends at the lake. 

Inns of Aurora is a community of five lakefront properties. They’re beautiful and cozy, with wine tastings, yoga and painting classes. Plus, a private beach, lakeside firepits, paddling and bikes. Organic, fair-trade coffee and fresh scones in the morning. Farm-to-table restaurant during the day. Book a room with a fireplace and lake views.

13. Fun weekend trips with friends in TEXAS

There are plenty of beautiful resorts in Texas perfect for weekend trips with friends. One of my favorites is the JL Bar Ranch Resort and Spa in lovely Texas Hill Country. This estate is grand, with a full-service spa, outdoor pool and two restaurants. Plus, pretty gardens to explore, complete with a fountain. Rooms offer warm decor, with gorgeous dark wood accents, furnished patios, bathrobes and slippers. Price includes wifi.

Another favorite is Commodore Perry Estate in Austin Texas. Its manicured gardens are gorgeous, as is the massive library with floor-to-ceiling bookcases and plush couches. You’ll also spend plenty of time in its elegant tea room, pool, terrace and restaurant. Book a room with a terrace for pretty views. Price includes wifi and shuttle service.

14. WINE AND SPA getaways with friends

Do you girls love sipping wine and relaxing with beautiful views? One of the best places to travel with friends in the USA is Napa Valley, California. Napa Valley is about 1.5 hours northeast of the San Francisco International Airport. You’ll find more than 375 wineries, more than 150 restaurants, and beautiful weather year-round. Napa Valley is nestled among two mountain ranges, with incredible views wherever you look.

For weekend getaways with friends at Canadian wineries, choose from gorgeous views in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Niagara-on-the-Lake in Ontario, and Annapolis Valley in Nova Scotia. All three locations have excellent wines, spas and views.

Where to stay for a wine and spa getaway with the girls:

• Auberge du Soleil Resort (Rutherford, California): This gorgeous resort is the ultimate friends weekend getaway, surrounded by a 33-acre olive grove. Relax in cabanas at the pool. Indulge at the spa and fine dining restaurant.
• Therapy Vineyards (Okanagan, BC): Suites overlook the vineyard and Okanagan Lake, with oversized windows, fireplace, patio and oversized tub. The property also has an outdoor fireplace and hot tub, and serves breakfast.
• Prince of Wales (Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario): This elegant Victorian-style luxury hotel is the perfect base for exploring nearby wineries. Features an onsite spa and indoor pool. Enjoy traditional English tea at the onsite restaurant and local wines in the cozy lounge.

15. CRAFTING retreat with the girls

There’s something about a crafting getaway that screams “treat”! How often do you dedicate time to create together?

You can find accommodations that offer things like cooking classes or join a retreat that focuses on a particular craft, like painting. For me and my friends, we’d just bring our favorite crafting supplies to a cozy cabin retreat with a hot tub and views.

15 BEST Places to travel with friends in Europe and the world

Taking international trips with friends is a sure way to create lasting memories and bonds. But the stress of international travel will put pressure on your friendship. Make sure you choose a destination that complements your relationship and how you enjoy spending time together.

In Europe, my favorite place to look for accommodations is Plum Guide . You’ll find the coolest house rentals ever, all verified and not all ridiculously expensive.

Here are awesome places to travel with friends in the world, including Europe.

16. European CASTLE getaway with friends

Take your international trip with friends around Europe chasing castles! The biggest challenge will be narrowing your castle adventure to a geographical area, like England or France.

Pick the most iconic castle or area you most want to see and plan the rest of your friends vacation from there. Here are three ideas:

• Neuschwanstein Castle (Germany): The most classic fairytale-like castle nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Take in its stunning architecture, lush surroundings, and panoramic views. Other (relatively) nearby castles to visit include the medieval and mountaintop Hohenwerfen Fortress in Austria and 
• Château de Chambord (France): A Renaissance masterpiece with elegant French architecture and vast gardens. It’ll enchant you with its grand halls and intricate details. Other notable French castles to visit include the lovely Château de Chenonceau built atop an old mill and the opulent Palace of Versailles.
• Eilean Donan Castle (Scotland): A remarkably enchanting castle among many in Scotland, with its charming bridge and moss-covered walls near the entrance to the Isle of Skye. My other favorite castles are on the opposite side of Scotland: the grand Sterling Castle and romantic cliffside Dunnottar Castle.

17. International trips with friends to AUSTRIA

Austria is a captivating blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and cultural experiences. Start your trip with friends in Vienna , the capital city. It’s a hub of art, music and architecture, with magnificent palaces, cathedrals and museums. Pick accommodations near City Center so you can walk to St. Stephen’s Cathedral for evening drinks.

Then, travel through the Danube’s Wachau Valley before heading south to Salzburg. Wachau Valley is a beautiful area of vineyards and cute villages along the river valley. I also highly recommend a stop at Stift Melk Abbey .

Roam the streets and hills surrounding the lovely city of Salzburg , the birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. It’s a charming old town with cobblestone streets, lovely gardens, and the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress looming above.

18. ENGLAND road trips with friends

Take a road trip with friends through the English countryside. There are SO many romantic castles, parks and gardens. Quaint villages in the Cotswolds. Rugged rolling hills in the Lake District. And haunting mysteries of Rosslyn Chapel. Experience England’s beauty on a drive from London to Edinburgh .

If you’d prefer a relaxing group tour rather than driving yourself, check out excellent tours of England from Trafalgar . Include a tour of Scotland and Ireland, too.

Find amazing places to stay on PlumGuide.com .

19. EUROPEAN CRUISE vacation with friends 

A European cruise vacation with friends would be AMAZING. You have all the benefits of world-class service, entertainment and food. Plus the gorgeous cities, islands and rugged coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Elegant spires off the Baltic Sea. Incredible history and the Cliffs of Dover off the North Sea. And then the more intimate cruise experience of exploring the Rhine or Danube.

Choosing your perfect European cruise option will be the toughest part. River cruises are quite unique, and an incredible way to experience Europe together.

20. Road trips through ITALY with friends

I’ve been to Italy only once and long to go back. There is SO much to see in Italy and it would be absolutely amazing to experience it with my best girl friends. Given the variety of sights to see, I recommend either getting a train pass for the time you’re there or renting a car.

On a road trip through Italy, start and stop in the vibrant city of Rome. Rome is a must-visit for historical landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Trevi Fountain. Stroll its charmings streets while indulging in pastas and gelato.

Then head up to Venice, a unique floating city built on canals. On your return to Rome, stop in Florence to see the famous Statue of David and beautiful churches. Then calm things down with a few days exploring the stunning Cinque Terre coastline and Tuscany wineries.

If you have more time, continue south of Rome to explore the historic ruins of Pompeii. It’s just south of Naples, another gorgeous coastal city. Sorrento and the Amalfi coast promise more spectacular views and memories for an epic trip with friends.

Find amazing home rentals on PlumGuide.com and hotels on Booking.com .

21. Explore ICELAND on a trip with friends

Iceland is a magical land of fire and ice, with waterfalls, the Blue Lagoon and ice caves. It’s an amazing trip with friends who love exploring nature’s wonders … and don’t mind a remote experience. There are no Starbucks in Iceland! But you will find other delicious coffee.

Visit the famous Golden Circle, which includes the breathtaking Gullfoss waterfall, the Geysir geothermal area, and the Þingvellir National Park. Take in the Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon and nearby Diamond Beach. Hike through the mesmerizing landscapes of Landmannalaugar or the volcanic region of Mývatn. Discover rugged fjords and black sand beaches, and then soak in the soothing Blue Lagoon geothermal spa.

If you want to explore Iceland’s famous ice caves or chase the Northern Lights, you must come in winter. Plan your friend’s trip between mid-November and mid-March.

22. Fun CARIBBEAN CRUISE trips with friends

A cruise is as easy as they come for trips with friends. Choose a destination, timing, and go!

A super easy cruise vacation for friends would be the Bahamas or Caribbean. Hop from beautiful island to beautiful island, all while enjoying luxury amenities, entertainment, and dining onboard.

A cruise is also a fantastic solution to taking trips with friends who have different interests. So long as you can agree on a cruise destination, you can go your separate ways in the afternoon and come back together at dinner.

Explore cruises on CruiseDirect.com .

23. INDIA adventure places to travel with friends

India is rich in cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable experiences for friends traveling together. Explore the bustling streets of Delhi and vibrant markets of Jaipur. Visit the iconic Taj Mahal in Agra. And take a spiritual journey in Varanasi.

But to see the best of India on your trip with friends, you need to leave the popular northern cities. Travel south to the popular Kovalam Beach and witness the breathtaking landscapes of Kerala’s backwaters.

Find incredible treehouses for your next best adventure with friends! Check out these treehouses on Booking.com , including in India, Chile, Costa Rica and more.

24. International trips with friends to THAILAND

Are you and your friends intrigued by Asian culture and finding the perfect secluded beach (like in The Beach movie)? Then I’m guessing Thailand is on your radar for international places to visit with friends. 

My main tip for visiting Thailand is to get out of Bangkok as quickly as possible. It’s busy, smoggy and not especially friendly. Instead, head north to Chiang Mai to experience the floating markets . Climb an ancient temple and brush up against an elephant. Then indulge at a beach resort at Phuket or the Phi Phi islands . Bask on white sand beach, surrounded by gorgeous limestone peaks and perfect turquoise waters.

Interested in a guided group tour? I highly recommend Intrepid small group tours for an incredibly rich, “local” experience. They have tours into Northern and Southern Thailand, including food and beach tours!

You may also like 5 Charities in SE Asia Tourists Should Visit .

25. Epic CAMBODIA trips with friends

Ancient temples, jungle and Tomb Raider. And an incredibly resilient people that carry an awful history of genocide. Cambodia is a place that will touch your soul and guarantees a friends trip you’ll never forget.

You’ll want to visit both the capital of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, home to the famous temples. In Phnom Penh, visit markets, temples and gardens. But hold onto your food, because those monkeys are gutsy! And my opinion is that tourists should pay their respects at the genocide sites . How else can we begin to appreciate what their people have been through?

In Siem Reap, explore the gorgeous temple ruins of Angkor Wat, Bayon Temple and Ta Prohm. A local guide can also take you to lesser-known temples you can climb with a jungle view all to yourself. Be sure to have a drink at The Red Piano and ask for a Tomb Raider drink. Cheers!

When I was in Siem Reap, my sister challenged me to do more than visit, so I will challenge you. Read about my experience of donating blood in Cambodia . (Yes, it was safe.)

26. JAPANESE MONASTERY places to travel with friends

I’ve only had a taste of visiting Japan on a layover in Tokyo on our way to Vietnam, but they completely charmed me with their hospitality! Japan is now on my bucket list, and specifically the zen experience of staying in Japanese monasteries.

Two iconic Japanese monastery communities to visit on a trip with friends include Kōya-san (Mount Kōya) and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). Mount Kōya is in a mountainous region about 7 hours southwest of Tokyo. It’s home to over a hundred temples including the famous Kongōbu-ji. Stay in shukubo (temple lodgings) with traditional Japanese-style rooms, vegetarian meals, and the opportunity to participate in morning meditations.

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is right in Kyoto. It’s known for its stunning golden exterior, and creates a breathtaking view as it reflects off the surrounding pond. Explore its exquisite gardens and the historic tea house inside the complex.

27. Fun AUSTRALIA beach road trips with friends

Australia is known for powdery white-sand beaches. So, rent a car and go beach-hopping on a road trip with friends!

Fly into Sydney and start your trip with friends at the iconic Bondi Beach . It’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, excellent surf and coastal walks. Take in the lively beach culture as you sample the many beachside cafes.

Then, head south for about 3 hours to Hyams Beach in Jervis Bay. It holds a Guinness World Record for having the whitest sand. Swim and snorkel at these beautiful clear waters and enjoy the laid-back coastal vibe.

Along the way, stop at the coastal Royal National Park and inland Heathcote National Park . They offer rugged hiking and other adventures that balance nicely with beach-bumming!

28. International trips with friends to BRAZIL

Have you heard of Iguazu Falls? Iguazu Falls is the world’s LARGEST waterfall, made up of a massive 270 separate falls! Check it out for yourself in the best virtual tours of waterfalls around the world . Iguazu Falls is right on the Brazil and Argentina border. 

Along with Iguazu Falls, experience Brazil’s beaches, rainforest and Rio de Janeiro. Make the epic climb up to Christ the Redeemer for epic views.

If you’re interested in a guided tour, check out Trafalgar’s tours in South America . This would be an easy way to explore the best sights on a trip with friends.

29. COSTA RICA best places to travel with friends

I SO want to experience the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve in Costa Rica. And stay in treehouse resorts. It sounds incredible.

Costa Rica is a tropical paradise known for its incredible biodiversity and natural wonders. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve offers breathtaking views, misty forests, and the chance to see rare wildlife. The nearby Arenal Volcano National Park provides thrilling hikes and hot springs for relaxing afterwards. 

For a beach experience, head to Manuel Antonio National Park. Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for stunning beaches and lots of wildlife, perfect for relaxing and snorkeling. It’s on the Pacific Ocean and accessible by road.

With its lush rainforests, stunning coastlines, and eco-friendly practices, Costa Rica offers a memorable and sustainable travel experience for friends.

30. Fun MEXICO beach trips with friends

There’s a reason why North Americans flock to beautiful Mexico! Mexico has some of the world’s finest beaches, best preserved Mayan ruins and fascinating, colorful cultures. But with all the options, where should you travel with friends? I suggest two. 

First, Cancun is an obvious choice. It’s a world-class destination with something for everyone. Exquisite beaches, first-class hotels, a more authentic downtown area, Mayan ruins and fantastic weather year-round. For an incredible trip with Mom to Cancun, stay at the adults-only all-inclusive Le Blanc Spa Resort . 

A second, quieter choice is Playa Maroma. About 30 miles from Riviera Maya, Playa Maroma has arguably the best beaches in the world. Plus rainforests and snorkeling right off the beach. A beautiful all-inclusive resort to check out is Catalonia Playa Maroma .

You may also like:

• How to travel with friends: Trip planning
• How to find better accommodations
• Trips with Mom and Trips with Dad

Featured photo: Priscilla Du Preez from Unsplash.

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25+ of the Best USA Weekend Getaways ( + Hidden Gems)

Whether you’re looking for a city excursion to a historic area or a relaxing weekend in the middle of seemingly nowhere, the best USA weekend getaways all have something in common: fun.

These are the best weekend trips to take in the US, places that you can see in 2 days and still feel like you had an experience to remember, including getaways in some of the most beautiful states in the US .

Choosing weekend getaways in the US isn’t always easy, because it’s hard to know what deserves just a day trip and what deserves a full week-long stay, but weekend travelers everywhere will fall in love with this list of where to go in the US for the weekend.

So book your flights (Spirit Airlines offers some cheap ones), grab a hotel or AirBnb, and let’s start dreaming!

Pin for later!

1. Washington D.C

Washington DC is a great place for a weekend getaway (check out the best tour here so you can make the most of your time). 

If you love having a variety of things to explore, DC will not disappoint. 

There is history, art, and architecture everywhere you turn.   

There are so many things to do in Washington DC. 

Check out any of the 17 Smithsonian museums. 

This includes the famous National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History,  as well as galleries, and the National Zoo.

If you love museums you are set for the entire weekend!

 However, after spending a day in a museum  visiting the National Monuments at night  is the perfect way to enjoy your time.

The Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, and Lincoln Memorial are incredible sights to see.  

There are some fabulous restaurants located in DC. 

The oval room is a must if you want to rub shoulders with a congressman or woman.

Don’t forget to stop by Georgetown Cupcakes for a fabulous treat.  

One benefit of Washington DC is the fact that you do not need a car. 

The metro system is fabulous. 

It is safe and will get you everywhere you need to go.  

Contribution by Lisa from Planning Away

2. Moab, Utah

If you love the outdoors, then a weekend getaway to Moab, Utah should be on your bucket list – check out this tour to make the most of your time.

Moab is the perfect home base location for exploring and photographing Arches and Canyonlands National Parks and Dead Horse Point State Park.

The landscape at these three parks features amazing rock formations where you can enjoy world-class hiking and biking trails.  

There are even more outdoor activities to do in Moab once you’re done visiting the parks like hiking, rock climbing, biking, river rafting, paddleboarding, and 4×4 off road driving.

You can do guided adventure tours, or strike out on your own. 

The Moab area is well known for its dark skies.

The two national parks and one state park are designated as International Dark Sky Parks.

Be sure to plan an evening where you drive away from the city a bit and look up! 

After a full day of outdoor fun, you’ll find restaurants offering a variety of food in Moab.

The famous places to eat there include Moab Diner, Moab Brewery, Zax and Jailhouse Cafe.

It won’t be hard to find a place to stay in Moab.

There are all types of lodging options from budget-friendly hotels to higher-priced resorts as well vacation rentals, a hostel, campgrounds and RV parks.

The affordability and location close to the national parks makes the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites in Moab a popular accommodation.

If outdoor adventure is your idea of an awesome weekend getaway, then Moab, Utah is the place to go! Contribution by Jamie from Photo Jeepers

3. Salt Lake City, Utah

Looking for the perfect weekend getaway destination in the USA?

Look no further than a visit to Salt Lake City, Utah (check out the best Salt Lake City tour here to make the most of your time).

With a large, conveniently located, Delta-hub airport, there are many direct flights to get you to Salt Lake City for a quick trip. Salt Lake City has plenty of convenient hotel and Airbnb options.

And while there is reliable public transportation, it is best to rent a car to maximize your time if you are only in town for the weekend.

There are many things to do in and around Salt Lake City.

If you are coming in the summer, consider visiting one of many Farmers Markets or checking out these  Salt Lake City hiking trails .

Go for a scenic drive in one of the many canyons surrounding the city if hiking is not your thing but you want to experience some of the beautiful nature.

You can also take the Snowbird tram to the top of the mountains of Little Cottonwood Canyon for a birds-eye view.

In the winter, you could ski, snowboard, snowshoe, go snow tubing, or go snowmobiling all within an hour of the city.

The nearby town of Midway offers the chance to see ice castles in the winter and soak in an underground hot spring crater.

Year-round, consider visiting the Great Salt Lake, Temple Square, or going shopping.

Salt Lake City, Utah is a great place to visit for the weekend.

It is an outdoor lover’s paradise and has many activities located within an hour of the airport so you can spend more time doing fun activities and less time in transit.

Contribution by Andrea Cannon at BeaUTAHful World

4. Seattle, Washington

Seattle  is the largest city in Washington State and is surrounded by water, mountains, and forests.

It is the perfect place for a weekend getaway, especially in the summer months – check out the best Seattle tour here to make the most of your time.

There is much to see and do – apart from the headquarters of Amazon and Microsoft and the very first Starbucks!

The Space Needle was built for the 1962 World Fair and has an observation deck at 158 meters and a popular restaurant at 152 meters.

Next door is the Experience Music Project (EMP) – a music museum with a very lively bar.

Other fun places include Pikes Place Farmers’ Market which overlooks the coast and has some great fish and fruit stalls

If you like hiking, there are great trails to the Snoqualmie Falls, just out of town.

The falls have an impressive 82-meter drop that is best viewed from the observation deck.

In contrast, the Japanese Gardens, near Madison Park are absolutely stunning and the perfect place to walk.

Gasworks Park is interesting as it incorporates structures from the original cooling plant.

For fun, why not rent a boat or canoe to explore Green Lake.

Whilst you are on holiday what better than enjoying dinner somewhere special like Wild Ginger and then enjoy good jazz at the Triple Door Jazz Club next door.

If you have something to celebrate, El Gouchois is a really good steakhouse.

Contribution by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

5. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway – check out the best Charleston tour here to make sure you make the most of your time.

With so many historical sights to see downtown, top-notch restaurants and delicious southern food to enjoy, and unforgettable day trips from Charleston , you’ll find plenty to keep you busy during a weekend in the Holy City.

Since Charleston is a quaint, walkable city, it’s an ideal location for a weekend trip.

The day trips from the Charleston area are only 30-45 minutes from Downtown Charleston, and many of them are located close to each other.

The proximity makes it easy to cover a lot of territory in one day so that you can see the best of Charleston during your weekend getaway!

Here are some of the top things to do during your weekend in Charleston:

• See where the Civil War started at Fort Sumter National Monument.
• Stroll through Waterfront Park and relax by the Pineapple Fountain.
• Take a photo at historic Rainbow Row.
• Visit Boone Hall Plantation to learn more about Charleston’s history and admire the beautiful architecture & scenery.
• Relax on one of Charleston’s beaches— Kiawah Island, Folly Beach, and Sullivan’s Island are popular choices!
• Stay at The Vendue or Mills House for a comfortable stay in the heart of Charleston.

Don’t miss these fantastic places to eat during your trip to Charleston!

• Order chicken and waffles for breakfast at Poogan’s Porch.
• Enjoy a modern take on the traditional southern fare at Husk or Fig.
• Grab a drink at The Vendue or Prohibition.
• Savor a sweet treat at Jeni’s Ice Cream !

Contribution by Brittany from Travel by Brit

6. Santa Fe, New Mexico

History, art, and hiking can all be enjoyed during an exciting weekend trip to Santa Fe (check out the best Santa Fe tour here to make the most of your time).

Located 1-hour north of Albuquerque International Airport, Santa Fe is accessible from anywhere in the United States.

Once in Albuquerque choose between renting a car or utilizing the Rail Runner train which travels between both cities a few times a day. 

Renting a car provides more flexibility and the opportunity to hike at a few spots on the way to Santa Fe.

The Kasha Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument is a family friendly hike with easy terrain and stunning views.

Another short hiking option is La Cieneguilla Petroglyphs. 

If opting to travel by Rail Runner, start your weekend by exploring the Santa Fe Railyard.

Home to great food, brews, and the Santa Fe Farmers Market (open every Saturday).

Next head downtown, with a stop at the New Mexico State Capitol.

The only round State Capitol building, designed after the Zia symbol found on the New Mexico state flag. 

There is a lot of history to be discovered in Santa Fe including the oldest church in the United States, the oldest public building in the United States, and a miraculous stairway found inside the Loretta Chapel.

The Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of downtown and always buzzing with community gatherings and events.

Finally, Santa Fe offers a range of art options including the IAIA Museum of Contemporary Native Arts and the Georgia O’Keeffe museum.

The most unique art experience in Santa Fe is an interactive experience called Meow Wolf. Arrive early and plan to spend several hours exploring the strange exhibits and discovering the storyline. 

Some of the best food and drink in New Mexico can be found in Santa Fe, so be sure to fill your weekend with plenty of hatch green chile, sopapillas, and wine. 

Contribution by Meg from Have Toothbrush, Will Travel

7. Boston, Massachusetts

History fans looking for a weekend getaway in the USA should consider Boston, a charming city with a relaxed vibe and one of America’s most beautiful cities .

Boston is a fantastic place to explore on foot. Check out this Boston tour to make the most of your time.

Exploring the Freedom Trail, visiting museums and enjoying the waterfront can easily be done in two or three days.

Home to Harvard University and the impressive Institute of Contemporary Art, Boston also has lovely parks, and Boston Harbor is great for a boat trip.

You can quickly fill up your itinerary with museums, such as the Paul S. Russell Museum, Fine Arts Museum, and the Mapparium.

Wandering around the streets of Boston, it’s easy to imagine you are somewhere in Europe.

Boston is the place to eat seafood and is home to excellent restaurants and bars.

Make sure to taste the clam chowder at Ye Old Union Oyster House.

Ask for the ‘Kennedy booth’ where JFK once dined. Faneuil Hall, a historic spot that is now a marketplace of food stalls, shops, restaurants, and bars is a fun place to wander around for yummy treats and buy souvenirs.

If you’re looking for an action-packed few days, Boston is perfect because there are plenty of things to do in Boston at night as well as during the day.

The city is compact and safe to move around after dark.

Boston is perfect for a short stay because it is an easy city to get around using the subway, buses and railway.

The best months of year to visit for beautiful photographs are around April and May when the spring blooms in parks and green spaces are enchanting or October and November for fall foliage.

Contribution by Christina from Travel 2 Next

8. Amelia Island, Florida

Amelia Island is the perfect weekend break away.

It’s somewhere to visit and relax, see the sights and just feel like you’re away from the world for a couple of days.

Named after the daughter of King George II, Princess Amelia, this lovely Floridian island is two hours north of Orlando but feels a world away.

Made for a timeless vacation ( Florida in the winter is awesome!) and a chance to relax and enjoy outdoor pursuits the beaches here are one of the top reasons to visit.

With 13 miles of beautiful beaches it’s an ideal place to enjoy beach time without the crowds of many of the busier resorts in the state.

There are some great activities here to enjoy too from horse riding and golf to mountain biking.

The Fort Clinch State Park has 1400 acres of parkland and beaches to enjoy.

There’s a fantastic farmers market in the downtown area which is perfect for picking up local produce and wonderful meals.

If the weather takes turn then head to the state’s oldest lighthouse which was built in 1838 and perfect to explore.

The Maritime Museum of Amelia Island and the Amelia Island Museum of History are also fantastic places to visit to learn more about the history of this interesting island, particularly the former which is run by real treasure hunters who can tell you all about their finds over the years.

There are some fantastic  family resorts in Florida here on the island so it’s a great place to come and stay for a few days and really relax.

Contribution by Nichola from Family Hotel Expert

9. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville is a great city for a weekend getaway due to its food scene, music nightlife, sports arenas, and overall ambiance.

Check out this best Nashville tour to make the most of your time.

There are plenty of things to do during your weekend in Nashville, but here are some options that are perfect for a couple of days in Music City. 

If you are a country music fan, then Nashville is the place to visit.

It is considered the birthplace of country music and tourists can visit famous locations such as the RCA Recording Studios, the Grand Ole Opry, and Ryman Auditorium. 

At night, head on over to Broadway’s bars and lounges to grab a few drinks and listen to country music or cover bands.

During the day, you could visit the Vanderbilt University campus, take a tour of the Hermitage, Andrew Jackson’s home, or stroll around the Parthenon, a replica of the temple in Athens.

The Belle Meade Plantation is another place to stop to soak in some history, and if you enjoy a glass of wine, a visit to Arrington Vineyards, owned by famous country duo Brooks & Dunn, is the perfect way to spend the afternoon. 

If you’re a sports fan and the home team is in town, you could catch a Tennessee Titans football game or a Nashville Predators hockey game. 

Another thing Nashville is known for is being a “foodie city”.

With many gastropubs, farm to table restaurants, and popular brunch spots, this city will not leave you hungry.

There are many Southern food options and variations of their signature hot chicken, barbeque, and biscuits at restaurants around the city. 

A weekend getaway in Nashville is perfect for those who would like to kick back, eat, drink, listen to music, and enjoy some well-earned rest and relaxation or good ole’ fashioned fun. 

Contribution by Margie from DQ Family Travel

10. Zion National Park

Zion National Park is one of the most stunning national parks in the country, and is perfect for a weekend trip. 

Located in southern Utah, less than a 3-hour drive from Las Vegas, Zion is made up of red rock canyons and spectacular vistas.

Check out the best Zion National Park tour here .

Some of the most epic hikes in the US are located at Zion, making this park a must visit destination!  

Even with only 2 or 3 days in the park, you can still see some of the best that Zion has to offer.

Start your adventure in Zion by hiking The Narrows, an epic hike through where you’ll be surrounded by canyon walls a thousand feet tall and a river 30 feet wide. 

For stunning vistas, check out Angels Landing – a strenuous, adrenaline pumping hike that rewards you with epic views. 

One of the easiest hikes in the park is the Canyon Overlook trail, a short, one-mile round trip hike with outstanding views of Zion’s red rock scenery and greenery. 

Due to its sheer natural beauty and close proximity both to Las Vegas and Southern California, Zion is popular and crowds can, especially during the peak summer months. 

To beat the crowds, head over to the Kolob Canyons.

This side of the park has crimson red canyons, and almost no people.

It’s definitely worth the trek. 

When planning your trip, check out this  2-day itinerary for Zion National Park  to know the best things to do, where to stay, and tips to make the most of your visit to Zion! 

Contribution by Ale from Sea Salt & Fog

11. Fort Lauderdale, Florida

One of the best American destinations for a weekend trip is Fort Lauderdale, Florida (check out the best tour here to make the most of your time).

It’s well-serviced by discount airlines, making it an affordable getaway to plan.

The year-round warm weather also makes it among the best choices for a few days of leisure.

In Fort Lauderdale, you can spend your days relaxing on the white sand and splashing around in the clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Most hotels and resorts also have pools for those who prefer to soak without the sand of the beach.

There are other ways to have fun on the water in Fort Lauderdale, like by booking a boat ride through the intercoastal waterway that weaves through the city.

A sunset cruise makes any weekend getaway unforgettable. Fort Lauderdale is also loaded with delicious seafood restaurants and beach bars to enjoy the nightlife.

LGBTQ+ travelers can head to Sebastian Street Beach or Wilton Manors, the adjacent village, to enjoy gay Fort Lauderdale .

It’s a vibrant part of town with an active community and plenty of gay-owned businesses. 

Visitors also love to shop on The Strip, Fort Lauderdale’s oceanfront promenade.

The Strip is full of high-end boutiques and seaside restaurants.

A natural oasis in the city of Fort Lauderdale is the lush Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, a 180-acre state park that’s just a short walk from the beach and full of hiking trails and picnic spots.

Contribution by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

12. Roanoke, Virginia

Set in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke sparkles as a weekend destination, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts (check out the best Roanoke tour here to make the most of your time).

Conquer single-track mountain bike trails at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve or tackle the  Roanoke Star hike  to the world’s largest man-made star that stands 100 feet tall.

The overlook wows with gram-worthy views across the Roanoke Valley.

A drive along the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, which skirts to the east of downtown, is a must-do while in Roanoke.

In spring, colorful wildflowers and flowering shrubs, like rhododendrons and mountain laurel, stun motorists on the scenic byway. Stop in the Blue Ridge Parkway Visitor Center at milepost 115 to explore topographical area maps and browse regional crafts and souvenirs in the gift shop.

In downtown Roanoke, plan to stop in Center in the Square, which is home to popular attractions like the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, the Roanoke Pinball Museum and the Science Museum of Western Virginia.

Take the elevator to the sixth-floor rooftop to see a koi pond and to savor all the views of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains.

Take a seat at Texas Tavern, a classic 10-stool diner in Roanoke.

This longtime cash-only landmark serves up burgers and chili bowls for less than $2 each.

Order the Cheesy Western, a burger topped with a fried egg, cheese, pickles and sweet relish.

Stay the weekend in-town at the centrally-located Hampton Inn & Suites Roanoke Downtown.

Before you return home, get your fill at Scratch Biscuit Company.

The buttery, made-from-scratch biscuits are heavenly, but they also serve up eggs, pancakes and hash browns.

Contributed by Erin from Go Hike Virginia 

13. Boulder, Colorado

A weekend getaway to Boulder is all about the outdoors, the arts, and food.

Check out the best Boulder tour here to make the most of your time.

Experience the very best of Boulder on one of the 150+ miles of trails, exploring around town for sculptures and murals, and eating your way through locally-owned, award-winning restaurants.

The Colorado Chautauqua National Monument is right in town and the launch point for many of the best hikes.

Spend the afternoon ascending the mountain trails where you are rewarded at the top with gorgeous views of the Indian Peaks Wilderness to the west and Boulder city views to the east.

For those looking for a little less active way to spend their time away, take a stroll along any section of the Boulder Creek Path.

The 17-mile, multi-use path runs along the Boulder Creek, a popular spot for tubing, fishing, and toe-dipping.

Keep the activity going with a  self-guided walking tour of 38 murals through the city , or the  Public Art Walking Tour that includes both sculptures and murals .

Art museums in downtown Boulder and on the University of Colorado campus are good options for those “indoorsy” days.

Between all the walking, exploring, and hiking, make a stop into any of Boulder’s incredible restaurants.

We love to fuel up with a big breakfast at The Buff, snack on house-made steamy buns from Zoe Ma Ma, and to bring the kids out for Boulder’s best pizza or burgers at Southern Sun, where we can try the latest brews from Mountain Sun Brewing.

We think the best spot of all is historic Pearl Street. Four of the blocks are closed to traffic, making a family-friendly space for shopping, eating, and watching street performers.

And it’s one of the best places to pick up some souvenirs from your Boulder getaway!

Contribution by Kiersten from Hiking in my Flip Flops

14. Steinbeck Country, California

When you visit Steinbeck Country, you get all the beautiful variety that is California.

Born in 1902 in Salinas, California, Pulitzer Prize winning author John Steinbeck’s writings and their strong sense of place allow people from all around the world to immerse themselves in the wonderful Central Coast.

To start your exploration, ground yourself in Pacific Grove where Steinbeck’s father had a summer home.

Use it as a jumping off point for an amazing day on Cannery Row in Monterey .

You can stop by actual sites featured in Steinbeck’s novels.

The Worker Shacks along a pedestrian path on Bruce Ariss Way give a window into the lives of sardine packers who used to populate this working wharf.

Drive out on Hwy 1 southbound and enjoy the iconic Big Sur area, where Steinbeck’s mother was a teacher before getting married.

You can drive to Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park and walk an easy trail to McWay Falls, one of the most photographed waterfalls in the world.

Heading back toward Carmel be sure to stop at Point Lobos State Reserve, a favorite of Steinbeck and his sister.

After an afternoon along this stretch of the Pacific, you can see how Steinbeck was inspired to write “Flight” from his many visits to the gorgeous coastline.  

On another day head inland to Salinas to visit Steinbeck’s Victorian styled family home and the National Steinbeck Center.

Further south on Hwy 101 you’ll find the town of Soledad, the setting for his novel Of Mice and Men and gateway to Pinnacles National Park.

Enjoy a beautiful hike toward ancient red rock spires.

Return to Pacific Grove by driving along the River Road Wine Trail and end the day by indulging in a pit stop at any one of the seven wineries along the route. 

Contribution by Michelle from Silvas Travel Tribe

15. San Antonio, Texas

For a weekend getaway, you can’t find a better spot than San Antonio, Texas.

Check out the best San Antonio tour here to make the most of your time.

In the heart of Texas Hill Country, you’re surrounded by rolling hills, sparkling rivers, and beautiful, clear lakes.

Whether you enjoy nature, history, or shopping, you’ll find everything you need for a perfect weekend in San Antonio.

Stay at Hotel Emma in the Pearl Brewery district, a converted brewery that retains many of the brewery features, or Hyatt Hill Country Resort for a family-friendly resort, complete with a pool and lazy river. 

Walk along the Riverwalk and enjoy the many shops and restaurants along the river’s edge, or take a boat tour to learn the history of San Antonio and the Riverwalk.

When you’re done, head to the Alamo to learn about the famous battle in the war for Texas Independence that cost the brave defenders their lives.

Just down the road, you’ll find the Buckhorn Museum, full of Texas Rangers paraphernalia and even a replica of San Antonio from the 18 and 1900’s – including Bonnie & Clyde’s bullet-ridden car!

Don’t forget to take the elevator up to the top of Tower of the Americas to get a view of San Antonio and the surrounding area from 750 feet up!

The Tower is located in a beautiful park you can explore, as well. 

Head downtown to explore the beautiful Japanese Gardens, complete with interconnecting ponds, bridges, and waterfalls.

Right next to the Japanese Gardens, you’ll find Breckenridge Park, a beautiful park with the San Antonio river winding through.

You can explore the trails, or take a train ride through the park to see all the sights.

San Antonio is a beautiful place to spend the weekend.

Check out this post for more things to do in San Antonio.

Contribution by Yocheved from Texas Wanderers

16. Manchester, Vermont

The little town of Manchester Vermont in the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

Surrounded by the Green Mountains of Vermont and the Taconic Mountains of New York this is a great spot for nature lovers and has a surprising number of amazing restaurants.

When it comes to things to do in Manchester Vermont , you need to get outside.

Manchester is a designated Appalachian Trail Town , so I always encourage people to jump on the AT and at least do the hike up to the summit of Bromley Mountain.

With 360 degree views, I think it’s the best hike in the area, and as a local, I’ve done a lot of hikes. 

Another great spot to explore is Hildene, The Lincoln Family Home .

Abraham Lincoln’s only surviving son, Robert built a summer home in Manchester, Vermont.

The house is open to visitors and has many original pieces inside.

If it is on display and not on tour, you might even get to see 1 of 3 remaining stovepipe hats belonging to Abraham Lincoln.

Take a walk on over 12 miles of hiking trails to the Goat Dairy to see how they make cheese right on the property.

If you go in March or April you’ll get to meet all the baby goats born each year.

For all the foodies out there are 2 restaurants that you can’t miss while in town.

The first is my personal favorite, the Ye Olde Tavern .

In operation as an Inn since 1790 and once a stop on the underground railroad this restaurant offers casual fine dining.

The cranberry fritters and maple butter that come with every meal are a delight and don’t skip dessert (It’s different every night)!

My other restaurant recommendation is the Copper Grouse at the Taconic Hotel.

It’s open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and offers a wide range of class New England comfort food.

Try my favorite, the Vermont Wagyu Burger.

Contribution by Retha from The Roaming Nanny

17. Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara, dubbed “The American Riviera”, is a perfect weekend getaway from Northern or Southern California.

Check out this awesome tour to make the most of your time.

Located less than 2hrs from Los Angeles, Santa Barbara has a semi-Mediterranean climate and is ideal to visit anytime of the year.

It is a beach town with breathtaking Spanish colonial architecture, a lively downtown and some of the best Mexican restaurants in California.

Start by exploring one of the oldest missions in California, the Santa Barbara Mission.

The mission consists of a museum, gardens and a church.

A self guided tour is available and is highly recommended.

Another must visit place in Santa Barbara is the Courthouse and the clock tower.

The Courthouse, considered one of the most beautiful courthouses in the US, is a must visit for beautiful architecture.

Climb the clock tower for some of the best views of Santa Barbara and the ocean.

If you love nature, pay a visit to Santa Barbara botanical gardens.

Other attractions in Santa Barbara include Stearn’s Wharf, one of the oldest piers in CA and a great place to grab seafood.

Also take a stroll along State Street, a lively downtown full of inviting bars and restaurants.

Butterfly beach and Montecito are also great places to visit on your  getaway to Santa Barbara . 

Los Agaves, East Beach Tacos, Santo Mezcal and Caje Coffee roasters are some of the best places to eat in Santa Barbara. 

If you have a day to spare, take a trip to Solvang, a beautiful Danish town less than an hour away from Santa Barbara.

Contribution by Aswani from A Charming Escape.

18. Oahu, Hawaii

Hawaii is an awesome place to spend a few days soaking in the sun.

Check out this awesome cruise to make the most of your time in Oahu.

Our favourite Island for a shorter getaway is Oahu, it’s the perfect place to spend a long weekend.

The island is relatively small so it’s easy to get around and it is jam packed with cool things to do.  

The North Shore is a great place to stay and I recommend the town of Haleiwa as a home base.

It’s a quaint little surf town with some cool boutique shops, great food and is home to friendly, laid-back locals. It also provides easy access to the rest of the island.

The North Shore is home to some of the best waves in the world and going to Banzai Pipeline and Waimea Bay to watch some of the local pro’s surf is one of the highlights.  

Make your way further up the coast and stop at Turtle Bay, which as the name suggests is home to many local turtles.

The turtles come up on the sand to bake in the sun and you can see them (from a safe distance) several times throughout the day.

Another one of the best things to do in Oahu is to visit Kualoa Regional Park which features in the original Jurassic Park films.

The rugged mountains set right by the beach are stunning.

There are plenty of other cool places to visit and endless good food meaning you can make it an action packed few days of adventure on the beautiful island of Oahu.

Contribution by Luke from Wild about BC

19. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina is a great weekend destination.

Go on a tour like this one to make the most of your time.

This funky little mountain town has a thriving arts scene and outdoor adventures galore.

Plus it’s one of the best foodie and craft beer destinations in the US!

Plan your weekend in Asheville around the food.

For breakfast, don’t miss Sunny Point Cafe (and expect to wait an hour or more for a table – it’s worth it).

Biscuit Head, Taco Billy, Early Girl, The Rhu, and 67 Biltmore are other great options.

After breakfast, head out for a hike or a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Locals’ favorite hiking spot in Asheville is Black Balsam Knob, about an hour from downtown.

Trail options range from one mile to multi day backpacking trips.

If you can time your hike for sunrise or sunset, even better!

Back in town, hit up a brewery or two.

You have over 30 options!

Bhramari and Highland are essential stops, but Twin Leaf and One World are local favorites that get far less tourist traffic.

When you’re ready for dinner, try Cúrate for spanish tapas and a super-hip atmosphere, Rhubarb for truly amazing farm-to-table cuisine (if they have anything with foraged mushrooms on special, go for that!), Buxton Hall for the world’s best chicken sandwich, or Chai Pani for Indian street food-inspired dishes.

Finally, spend half a day wandering around the River Arts District. Galleries usually open from mid-morning to mid-afternoon on Saturday’s (although hours vary widely by gallery).

There’s lots of cool street art around the train tracks as well.

Asheville has hundreds of hotels at all price points.

If you can swing it budget-wise, the best places to stay are the collection of small B&B’s on Chestnut Street and Montfort Ave. Cheaper lodging that’s still super-close to downtown can be found on Tunnel Rd.

Contribution by Carrie from Planes, Trains, and Tuktuks

20. Adirondack Mountains

The Adirondack Mountains of New York State encompass 6 million acres and a good portion of Northern New York.

If you are looking for some outdoor adventure, you are sure to find it within the Adirondack Park, whether it be hiking, water sports, finding stunning mountain views, or even just relaxing along a waterfront. 

For a 2-3 day trip to the Adirondacks, Old Forge is the perfect area to set as your home base.

Old Forge offers plenty of activities and is within driving distance of many nearby towns. 

In Old Forge, you can enjoy a visit to NY’s largest water park in the summer, a hike up Bald Mountain or Rocky Mountain, a ride on the McCauley Mountain Scenic Chairlift, a scenic Rail Bike Adventure, a scenic train ride aboard the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, and white water rafting on Moose River.

Another great option for a home base in the Adirondacks is Lake Placid.

Lake Placid is home to the winter olympics of 1932 and 1980 and visitors can enjoy touring the Lake Placid Olympic Center, riding to the top of the Olympic Ski Jump, and trying their hand at bobsledding.

Lake Placid is also home to Whiteface Mountain, which can be reached via car along Veteran’s Memorial Highway or if you prefer you can hike to the top.

If you are visiting with kids (or even without!), be sure to make a stop at the Wild Center, where you can experience a walk among the treetops. 

While there are plenty of hotel options, and even luxury stay options, camping is perhaps one of the best ways to fully get the Adirondack Experience.

You can find camping at the Old Forge Camping Resort if you choose to make Old Forge your home base or the ADK Wilderness Campground in Lake Placid. 

Contribution by Melissa from Navigation Junkie

21. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Mid-way between New York and Washington D.C., Philadelphia is often overlooked as a destination for a great city adventure.

However, if you get excited about a city full of history and great food, a weekend in Philadelphia is for you.

Check out the best Philadelphia tour here to make the most of your time.

Even though Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States, we had not expected the extent of the amazing history, and the passion for that history, that we were about to witness in the city of Brotherly Love. 

Marvel at The Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, located in the Liberty Bell Center in Independence National Historic Park.

Though tickets are no required to see the Liberty Bell, there can be some big crowds.

See where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and signed.

Again, tickets are free, but must be reserved.

Wander around the former  Eastern State Penitentiary,  where Notorious criminals such as Al Capone and Willie Sutton served time.

Operational from 1829 to 1971, it is now a U.S. Historical Landmark. 

The Benjamin Franklin Museum explores the life and legacy of Philadelphia’s most famous citizen.

The museum was incredibly well thought-out and interactive.

And, of course, taking a run up the famous Rocky Steps (the steps that lead to the Philadelphia Art Museum), while playing the Rocky theme song on your cell phone, is a must-do.

If you like wandering markets, Reading Terminal Market is one of America’s oldest and largest public markets, featuring over 80 different food vendors.

Travel back in time as you wander charming cobblestoned streets, learn about the lives of early Philadelphians, and admire the small and colourful homes in Elfreth’s Alley ,  too.

For an easy and stress-free way to get around the city to all of the major landmarks and attractions, get a Philadelphia CityPass and take advantage of the hop-on hop-off bus tour.  

And, of course, it isn’t a trip to Philly without devouring a delicious Philly Cheesesteak.

You’ll find several popular locations around Philadelphia.

Asking a handful of people where to go for the best Philly Cheesesteak will get you many different answers.

We ended up at Sonny’s and enjoyed every last bite. 

Contribution by Debbie from World Adventurists

22. Catskills

If you’re coming from New York (or even if you’re not) and just want to take a break from your busy life, the Catskills is a great weekend destination that will surely take your breath away.

In just a three-hour drive from the city, you’ll find yourself in a whole new environment surrounded by beautiful nature.

Sure, no one will blame you if you prefer to be lazy all weekend just to enjoy your time away from work, but the Catskills has so much to offer, you wouldn’t want to miss out on all the fun activities you can do.

The mountainous region in southeastern New York is an excellent place for cycling, with trails that are suitable for all levels.

Get your adrenaline pumping as you marvel at the scenic views when you pass through the biking trails.

Hiking is also one of the popular things to do in the Catskills. In fact, a few days of adventure in the fantastic hiking trails will make for a super memorable experience. 

These trails cover both public and private lands and will take you to breathtaking waterfalls.

Adventure may be the name of the game when you visit the Catskills, but that doesn’t mean you can’t go low-key on your weekend escape.

If you would like to do some soul-searching, be on a mindful journey to self-discovery, enjoy a relaxing retreat in your hotel or a cozy, dreamy log cabin. 

On the other hand, if you’d rather ditch the comfortable accommodations and savor the vast wilderness, camp under the night skies instead!

Whether you want the thrill of outdoor adventure or just some downtime for yourself (or even with your loved ones) the Catskills has everything you need.

Contribution by Lucile from Lucile HR

23. New Orleans, Louisiana

If you are looking for a fun weekend getaway in the USA, look no further than the city of New Orleans.

Check out the best New Orleans tour here to make the most of your trip.

Known as the Crescent City, New Orleans is one of the most diverse and interesting places to visit in the USA.

It has a history and culture that is incredibly unique to this part of the world.

New Orleans makes the perfect 2 or 3 day trip as it is easy to navigate and get around the city.

There are many sights and things to do during your weekend in New Orleans.

The French quarter is arguably it’s biggest attraction, this quaint section of town is full of historic buildings and eateries.

Bourbon Street is where you’ll want to head for nightlife, while Royal Street is quieter and full of antique shops, and Frenchman Street features some of the best Jazz Clubs in New Orleans.

New Orleans is home to some of the best food with many restaurants featuring a traditional menu with Cajun and Creole dishes.

The Gumbo Shop is one of the best restaurants in New Orleans and their Gumbo is to die for.

Or opt for something a little different such as the alligator sausage or crab cakes.

Beignets are a New Orleans staple and you cannot visit without trying one!

These fluffy sweet French donuts can be found at either Cafe Du Monde or Café Beignet.

The Garden District is a short cable car journey from the French Quarter, this part of town is full of gingerbread style houses and home to some of New Orleans’ spookiest graveyards.

If you’ve got extra time, consider a day trip from the city, a swamp tour is a quintessential New Orleans experience.

The Hotel Royal, located in the French Quarter, is the perfect place to stay in New Orleans as it is within walking distance of many coffee shops, restaurants and attractions.

It’s also in a quieter section of the French Quarter so getting a good nights sleep won’t be a problem! 

Contribution by Rachael from A City Girl Outside

24. Portland, Oregon

Portland, Oregon, a medium-sized city in the Pacific Northwest, is the perfect size for a weekend getaway.

It’s small enough to explore in a weekend, but has enough things to do, see, and most importantly, eat and drink, to keep you busy and have you dreaming of your return trip on the plane ride home. 

Check out this Portland tour to make the most of your short time.

The best way to spend a weekend in Portland, Oregon , is to eat and drink your way through the city.

You’ll experience one of the best food and drink scenes on the west coast, especially when it comes to affordable food and food carts, and find yourself right in the middle of all the natural beauty that Oregon has to offer.

And donuts.

Lots of donuts of all shapes, sizes, and flavors.

To decide for yourself who makes the best donuts in Portland, there are three spots that you shouldn’t miss.

They are Blue Star Donuts for their wide range of artisanal donuts (prepare to pay $3 a pop), Voodoo Donuts for the novelty donuts like the “Oh Captain, My Captain” which is crusted with Cap’n Crunch, and Pip’s Original for made-to-order donut holes and incredible chai, 

If a weekend full of donuts isn’t your thing, Portland still has you covered.

Head to Toro Bravo or Han Oak for dinner, or the food cart pod at Prost! to eat at a food cart, which is a must-do while you’re in town.

When in Rome, right?

For a little post-donut exercise, walk from downtown Portland up to the International Rose Test Garden, which is home to over 10,000 roses and has great views of the city and Mt. Hood.

Or, if you have a car, make your way into the scenic Columbia River Gorge to explore one of the many gorgeous waterfalls, like world-famous Multnomah Falls, a 611-foot tall waterfall that is just 30 minutes outside of downtown Portland. 

While you’re in Portland, you’re definitely going to want to make a stop at Powell’s Books, one of the largest independent bookstores on the West Coast.

You could probably spend your entire weekend browsing the shelves full of books ranging in topic from historical accounts to epic fantasy and sci-fi sagas to find your next book to read. 

Contribution by Matt from Wheatless Wanderlust

25. Bend, Oregon

Bend, Oregon is a beloved getaway destination about three hours’ drive south of Portland or east of Eugene.

Check out the best Bend tours here to make the most of your time here.

Best known for its relaxed atmosphere and outdoorsy vibes, Bend straddles the Deschutes River as it runs through high desert on the edge of the Cascade mountains.

Visitors come to enjoy the extensive outdoor recreation options as well as restaurants, breweries, and grassy riverside parks in town. 

Mountain biking is one of the most popular  outdoor activities in Bend , and the world class trail network just outside of town offers fun for both beginners and experienced riders.

Short hikes like Tumalo Falls are accessible for all levels, and in summer the nearby Three Sisters Wilderness draws hikers and backpackers looking for more challenging alpine adventures.

Wintertime visitors can go sledding or snowshoeing at nearby snow parks, or skiing at Mt. Bachelor.  

Within town, the inviting Deschutes River is irresistible on hot summer days.

Rent a paddle board, kayak, or innertube, or just relax by the shore.

A lively restaurant and brewery scene awaits at the end of a fun day.

Bend has numerous places to stay, from budget motels to Airbnbs to campgrounds.

Though you could have fun for weeks in Bend, a weekend getaway is a perfect way to quickly recharge in a beautiful setting. 

Contribution by Alissa of Exploring Wild

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• Romantic Getaways

The Best Weekend Getaways for Couples

Want to spice things up in your relationship? Then it's time to get out of town.

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Nothing keeps the sparks flying like traveling together. Navigating new places with your significant other while spending quality one-on-one time is a great way to deepen your bond and create lasting memories.

Whether for Valentine's Day, an anniversary, or just a long holiday weekend, why not go away together to a rustic lodge, laze on a tropical beach with an umbrella-topped beverage, or cheers to your love at a countryside winery somewhere warm and sunny? Whatever your idea of a romantic escape is, we'll help you get there with these great weekend destinations perfect for couples. Get ready for starry-eyed bliss.

Montreal, Canada

If you're seeking a European-esque destination without the transatlantic flight, head to Montreal. This sophisticated Canadian metropolis is rich with history, centuries-old architecture, and bustling French bistros.

Most tourists shy away from Montreal until spring, so those who enjoy a winter wonderland vibe can delight in a quieter visit full of cold-weather charms, like ice skating at Parc La Fontaine, dogsledding in Mont Tremblant, and guided nighttime snowshoeing on Mont Royal complete with beautiful views of the city lights. Travelers can then warm up with hot chocolate by a roaring fire at one of Old Montreal's cushy hotels.

After checking out the vibrant downtown scene, couples can treat themselves to an indulgent massage or facial at the luxurious Spa St. James at The Ritz-Carlton, Montreal, or enjoy cocktails and tapas at the W Montreal's Living Room . The sexy space and its relaxed vibe will set the mood for romance.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Just a short drive from many locations in the northeast, Watch Hill is an idyllic place to visit year round. For an intimate stay, hightail it to Ocean House , a grand 1868 Victorian oceanfront beauty and the crown jewel of the New England town. Couples can enjoy long walks on the private white-sand beach and canoodling in front of the stately stone fireplace, cocktail in hand. There's a farm-to-table restaurant on site, plus a prestigious cooking school offering guests gourmet classes and intimate tastings.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is one of the Caribbean's best destinations for a romantic retreat. These easy-to-access islands — flights are under two hours from Miami and under four from New York — will have couples in paradise in no time.

For a dreamy place to call home for a few days, settle in at The Shore Club . The first resort on beautiful Long Bay Beach — the most private stretch of sand on the island of Providenciales — offers seclusion and modern amenities. Start your day on a paddle board over dazzling turquoise waters, lap up some much-needed R&R at four cabana-lined pools, and cap off your night with fresh seafood at SUI-REN, the resort's Japanese-Peruvian restaurant.

In between lounging, couples can embark on a lovely horseback ride along the white-sand beach or indulge in a stress-relieving spa treatment. And don't miss downtown Grace Bay, a hub for eateries, bars, shopping, and nightlife. There's so much on offer to refuel the spark in any relationship.

Palm Springs, California

Glamorized as Old Hollywood's vacation destination of choice, Palm Springs is still as hip as it was in Frank Sinatra's day. The desert oasis entices travelers with stylish resorts, world-class restaurants, and majestic desert views. It's a haven for hikers, adventure seekers, and golfers — with more than 100 area courses.

Try a backcountry Jeep tour through the San Andreas Fault Zone or make a trip to Joshua Tree National Park , about an hour's drive away. Looking to unwind? Soak in the natural healing waters at Desert Hot Springs or head to one of the area's many day spas for a hot-stone couples massage. Palm Springs also has a foodie scene, and many of the city's finest establishments offer patio dining under the stars.

For a relaxing staycation, book a suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage . With everything from clifftop dining to a luxe spa surrounded by the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountains, you won't have to leave the grounds to have an unforgettable weekend. There's postcard-worthy scenery in every direction, and we recommend taking it all in from a cabana at the pool while sipping an Arnold Palmer. The golf legend debuted the now-famous iced tea-lemonade drink in Palm Springs in the late '60s.

Walland, Tennessee

Take your love of adventure to new heights with a luxurious mountain retreat. Blackberry Mountain , a Relais & Châteaux resort nestled among 5,200 wondrous acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, is the perfect place to get cozy with your other half.

This rustic sanctuary balances a peaceful environment with active and wellness offerings. Outdoorsy couples can revel in everything from hiking, mountain biking, and candlelight yoga to relaxing forest baths, woodland meditation, and restorative spa treatments. After nourishing your mind and body, feed your soul at three one-of-a-kind restaurants that showcase Blackberry Farm's celebrated hospitality and culinary program.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston , called "Holy City" because of its long history of religious tolerance, is a beloved destination of many travelers due to its historic landmarks, cobblestone streets, booming food scene, and Southern charm.

Foodie couples will be in heaven: The culinary capital of the South boasts a myriad of standout spots and immersive experiences. Don't miss oysters at King Street's seafood stunner, The Ordinary , spicy fried chicken at Leon's Oyster Shop , and Texas-style brisket at Lewis Barbecue , just to name a few. For a post-dinner classic cocktail, belly up to The Bar & Patio at Husk . Fancy some bubbly? Check out the Champagne bar Camellias at Hotel Bennett.

Opt for a stay at the French Quarter Inn , a boutique gem in the heart of the historic district. At the end of a jam-packed (and no doubt delicious) day, the hotel's top-notch turndown service with a "pillow menu" — featuring seven different comfy options for resting your head — will ensure the sweetest dreams.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The largest of the three Cayman Islands is the ultimate sanctuary for couples looking for a Caribbean beach oasis — at any pace. With warm, dry weather and fewer crowds than during the height of winter, early spring is an ideal time to visit Grand Cayman and its world-renowned Seven Mile Beach.

A range of water sports invites epic adventures surrounded by the island's sparkling waters. You can kayak through lush, tropical mangroves or charter a catamaran to Rum Point on the north coast. Want to indulge in some rest and relaxation with your beloved? Sun-drenched afternoons spent lounging on pink-sand beaches or entwined in a hammock will do the trick.

Grand Cayman's spectacular sunsets are a quintessential backdrop for passionate evenings. Catch magical views of the fiery spectacle at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa , followed by an exceptional dinner experience at Avecita with a custom chefs' counter tasting of seasonal, wood-fired fare that's unique to the Caribbean. Pro tip: snag a reservation in advance — there are only 30 seats and just one seating per night.

Paso Robles, California

Uncork that lovin' feeling with a jaunt to California 's third-largest wine region (following more famous territories, Napa and Sonoma). Nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the state's central coast lies a vast rolling countryside speckled with vineyards, olive groves, farms, and ranches.

With its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, Paso Robles is a perfect stop for a relaxing long weekend. Wine is the main attraction here: Sip your way through cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, merlot, and more at 200-plus wineries. Many tastings take place on sun-drenched outdoor spaces with breathtaking vistas, creating a next-level experience. Visitors tend to fall in love with Paso's chill ambiance, and lodging is typically more affordable than in California's more well-known wine regions.

If you get wined out — is that even a thing? — you can switch it up by sampling local olive oils, touring a craft brewery, or taking a dip in a hot spring. Downtown, you'll find interesting boutiques and great eateries. Stop by The General Store for honey, olive oil, soaps, and handmade goods from area producers to bring home.

Park City, Utah

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

What's more dreamy than cozying up by a fireplace in a snowy mountain lodge? Having local whiskey and chocolates in hand, of course. Park City is a winter wonderland rich with small-town charms, and it's quickly accessible from Salt Lake City International Airport.

Hit the slopes at two world-class resorts — Park City Mountain and Deer Valley — which offer some of the world's greatest ski conditions. In between runs on fresh powder, savor magnificent snow-capped landscapes and gourmet fare at several on-mountain pit stops. For a stellar après-ski situation, make your way to the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis Deer Valley resort for decadent hot chocolate, fireside s'mores, and craft cocktails.

Beyond mountain sports, Utah's historic mining town is like a holiday postcard come to life, full of perfect date activities like sleigh rides, ice skating, hot-air balloon rides, dogsledding, and shopping along historic Main Street, where the facades of many acclaimed restaurants and saloons are preserved from the 1880s. Unwind with a whiskey flight at Park City's own High West Distillery . For an excellent candlelit dinner featuring local live music, head to Riverhorse on Main , then saddle up to popular No Name Saloon Bar & Grill for a nightcap. There's so much for couples to see and do in "Winter's Favorite Town."

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Just a short drive south from the Cancun airport, Playa del Carmen is situated along the Yucatán's palm-lined Caribbean coastline. With its unspoiled natural setting and upscale hotels, Mexico's Riviera Maya is a first-rate vacation destination — and an ideal escape for lovebirds seeking warm weather.

If privacy and luxury is your speed, say "hola" to the area's most romantic resort: The five-star Rosewood Mayakoba . Set along the edges of a freshwater lagoon, the property features refined accommodations with over-the-top amenities, heated plunge pools, and in-room mezcal to spice things up. You'll also find three infinity pools sunken in the sand, an open kitchen for interactive culinary experiences, and a beachfront fire pit to curl up next to in the moonlight.

New Paltz, New York

Looking for a place that's a short drive from New York City but feels worlds away? Reserve a room at Mohonk Mountain House . Family-owned and -operated since 1869, this Victorian resort is perched on the the banks of crystal blue Lake Mohonk in New Paltz.

The grand, castle-like property offers couples an award-winning spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and a range of daily outdoor activities. In winter, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on groomed trails and ice skating on the private pavilion. Warmer months bring horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking in the surrounding Shawangunk Ridge.

Leisurely, romantic days are also welcome: Sip hot chocolate and snuggle up by one of the stone fireplaces, soak in the outdoor heated mineral pool, or watch the sunset from rocking chairs on the porch. Just being with your sweetheart, surrounded by pristine mountain wilderness, is enough to make you fall in love all over again.

15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA

Looking to get away for a weekend? Well, you’re in luck: there are so many incredible weekend getaways in the USA!

The more we travel in our home country, the more we appreciate how its enormous size and incredible diversity mean that city breaks in the United States can cover just about any interest.

Want to lay out on one of the best urban beaches in the world, drink craft beer, attend an unforgettable festival, go hiking, hit a casino, or simply experience some of the most iconic tourist sites in the world in quick succession?

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Or, maybe you want to dig into a unique and delicious food scene, learn a bit of American history, or engross yourself in a walkable area and leave driving behind for your whole weekend trip?

No matter what you like to do, there’s an American city (or six) for that.

Here are 15 of the best cities for weekend getaways in the USA.

Table of Contents

Southern Weekend Getaways in the USA

Western weekend getaways in the usa, eastern weekend getaways in the usa, central weekend getaways in the usa.

New Orleans

It’s often said that there’s nowhere like New Orleans–and that is completely true.

Spending a weekend in New Orleans ( or even a single day ) means lots of jazz, lots of delicious food (gumbo, beignets, po’ boys, muffulettas, and more–oh my!), and lots of good times.

Be sure to make time for a ghost tour to take a look at the more mystical part of the city (even if you’re not the superstitious type, I promise a ghost tour is worth it in NOLA!), and a bayou tour to check out southern Louisiana’s incredible landscape.

And, while it’s easy to have nothing but good times in New Orleans, you can (and arguably should) add more depth to your trip as well: consider a day trip out to somewhere like the Whitney Plantation to learn a bit about NOLA’s dark past, or even a Katrina-themed tour discussing the serious impacts of the 2005 hurricane.

Where to Stay in New Orleans

• Best Western Plus French Quarter Landmark Hotel : The hotel itself is beautiful in that classic New Orleans way, and the (included) breakfast is varied and tasty. Best of all, this hotel is situated right on the edge of the French Quarter, meaning that all of the French Quarter and some areas beyond are within easy walking distance.
• Omni Royal Orleans Hotel : Located in the heart of the French Quarter, this beautiful hotel is known for its gorgeous building, attentive service, and lovely ambiance–plus its ghosts. Yeah, that attentive service? It just may come in the form of the ghost maid who likes to tuck guests in at night!

If you’re hoping to soak up some fun in the sun during your USA weekend getaway, look no further than Miami.

South Beach is often considered one of the best urban beaches on the planet, and we’d have to agree! 

Don’t limit yourself just to the beach, though: be sure to explore Miami Beach’s impressive Art Deco architecture, eat your way through Little Havana, admire street art in Wynwood, and check out the views from Biscayne Bay.

For those who want to experience some unique nature in south Florida during their trip, consider also planning a trip out to the Everglades–or if you have a few extra days, road-tripping your way all the way to Key West , the southernmost point in the USA!

Where to Stay in Miami

• Hotel Impala : We love staying here! The room was clean, the shower divine, the customer service lovely, and–most importantly–the location on Collins Ave. was absolutely  perfect.  Located in the heart of the Art Deco district and a five-minute walk from South Beach while still offering a quiet place to sleep at night, Hotel Impala had a location you just can’t beat in Miami Beach.
• The Marlin Hotel : This hotel offers the chance to stay in one of Miami Beach’s historic art deco buildings! Boasting a fantastic location on Collins Avenue, impeccable customer service, incredible reviews, and spacious suites, the Marlin Hotel is the perfect hotel for those looking for a luxury experience while also seeing a side of Miami Beach’s Art Deco history that not every visitor to the city gets to.

Dripping with Spanish moss and home to one of the most stunningly beautiful historic centers of any city in the United States, Savannah is the perfect place to head for a weekend trip : not too big, not too small, and positively packed with some of the best southern food you could ever hope to find.

Come here to wander through all 22 of Savannah’s remaining town squares, tour a house museum or two, pay a visit to Forsyth Park, and to wander along gorgeous Jones Street.

Shoppers will love all the boutiques on Broughton Street, River Street, and in City Market, and those looking to indulge their taste buds will find limitless incredible food in Savannah , from classic southern meals at the Olde Pink House to tasty ice cream at Leopold’s.

If you’re a former Girl Scout like me, or just interested in their history, be sure to also pay a visit to the home of the organization’s founder, Juliette Gordon Low.

Where to Stay in Savannah

• The Marshall House : Featuring a popular included breakfast, a fantastic location in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and phenomenal reviews, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Marshall House!
• Foley House Inn : Easily my favorite hotel that I’ve stayed in while in Savannah, the Foley House Inn is absolutely beautiful inside and out, and has a perfect location right on Chippewa Square.

Of all of the weekend getaways in the USA covered here, Asheville is one of the best options for a group divided on whether to visit a city or the great outdoors.

Home to an epic craft beer scene, the incredible Biltmore Estate, plenty of street art, and delicious food options, there’s no doubt that Asheville appeals to the city lovers among us.

Its location right next door to the Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, however, make it a fabulous US weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well, and there are plenty of easy hikes near Asheville that allow travelers of all skill levels to enjoy the beautiful mountain setting.

No matter what your interests are, try to make time during your trip to Asheville to drive a small piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway–especially if you’re visiting in the fall and can enjoy the changing colors. Often considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States, it’s a sight not to be missed.

Where to Stay in Asheville

• Cedar Crest Inn: This pink 1891 mansion house is a perfect place to base yourself in Asheville. Packed with historical details and stunning architecture you can imagine it as a mini Biltmore.
• The Applewood Manor : Located within walking distance of downtown via a greenbelt trail, The Applewood Manor feels like it’s in a peaceful, quiet location–but it’s still in a perfect location to make the most of Asheville.

Home to country music, hot chicken, street art, and plenty of barbecue, there’s no doubt that Nashville, Tennessee is an excellent place to let the good times roll on your weekend away.

While Nashville is extremely popular as a bachelorette party destination and for other girls’ getaways, large groups are far from the only types of travelers who will enjoy a weekend in Music City, USA.

The best places to visit in Nashville include visiting the Grand Ole Opry (both for the show and for the backstage tour!), checking out the Johnny Cash Museum, seeing the Country Music Hall of Fame, and exploring Gulch, the street art neighborhood home to, among many other things, the #instagramfamous Nashville wings.

Be sure to save some time to enjoy the city’s famous nightlife when exploring the best things to do in Nashville . Its tasty food is also an important ingredient on any Nashville bucket list –be sure to try the hot chicken at least once, but be aware of your heat tolerance before ordering!

Where to Stay in Nashville

• Hutton Hotel: Book into this stylish hotel for your romantic trip, relax on the hotel balcony, or stroll 10 minutes to Music Row.
• Virgin Hotels: Part of the Virgin Group and with all the luxury details you might expect, with plenty of red and white details.

Located just a couple of hours north of Savannah, Charleston shares a lot of similarities with its neighbor to the south: fantastic southern food, Spanish moss dripping from the trees, beautiful architecture, lots of history to uncover–but it absolutely has its own distinct personality as well.

Be sure to visit the beautiful and photogenic Rainbow Row, check out the tea-making process at the Charleston Tea Plantation, visit the gorgeous and interesting Angel Oak Tree, stroll through Waterfront Park and Battery Park, and check out City Market.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there and Fort Sumter for its history (and views).

Even for non-military-history buffs like us, these sights can still be an interesting way to spend some time!

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach!

Where to Stay in Charleston

• Market Pavillion Hotel : This hotel is a stunning choice in the heart of the historical district. Rooms feature four poster beds and charming classic decor, but the hotel amenities are really special with a mosaic pool and even its own Executive Pastry Chef whipping up delicious pastries for breakfast.
• French Quarter Inn : Another fabulous historical hotel is this one in the french quarter overlooking Charleston City Market. You are welcomed with champagne on arrival, there is also a port wine and cheese reception and freshly baked cookies with milk are served every evening. The perfect treats for your trip! Rooms are vintage inspired and really beautiful. This is the loveliest spot in Charleston.

Set right on the water with the dramatic backdrop of Mount Rainier, it’s no wonder that busy and beautiful Seattle is one of the most popular west coast weekend getaways in the USA.

A weekend trip is the perfect amount of time to eat your way through Pike Place Market, head to the top of the Space Needle, visit the famous Chihuly Museum, and  check out the fun and interesting Museum of Pop Culture.

Looking for interesting neighborhoods? Head to Fremont, where the self-proclaimed unofficial motto is “des libertas quirkas”, aka “the freedom to be quirky”.

Hoping to spend some time outside? Nestled in the heart of the magnificent Pacific Northwest, endless waterfalls, trails, and mountains–even Mount Rainier itself–are located within day-tripping distance from Seattle.

Where to Stay in Seattle

• Gaslight Inn : Located on Capitol Hill this historic building is a great option for Seattle. Recognized as a historic landmark and beautifully preserved but with all the modern luxuries.
• MarQueen Hotel: Another historic hotel, built in 1918 in the Queen Anne neighborhood. Rooms all have hardwood floors and period features, as well as huge beds perfect for your romantic trip.

Much like Austin, Portland proudly embraces its weirdness, celebrating the eclectic and bizarre in all possible ways–and that makes it endlessly fun to visit!

Bookworms like me will immediately head to Powell’s City of Books–I still think it’s the biggest bookstore I’ve ever visited–while foodies will want to head directly to the local ice cream obsession, Salt & Straw. 

Voodoo Doughnuts, now with a few locations nationally, also originated here and remains popular with tourists (though depending on who you ask, not locals–for what it’s worth, we’d rate the doughnuts 7/10).

During your weekend trip to Portland, make time to visit the Japanese Garden and the International Rose Garden, especially if you visit when everything is in bloom.

Plenty of incredible parts of the Columbia River Gorge, including famous Multnomah Falls, are also within easy reach of Portland and deserve to feature on your list of things to do in Portland !

Where to Stay in Portland

• Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : This historic hotel offers a hot tub, steam room, full-service spa, and other luxurious amenities that will truly make your vacation to Portland one to remember!
• Portland Harbor Hotel: Located on Portland Waterfront is this luxury and stylish hotel. With beautifully designed rooms and a great restaurant, you are also well located to explore more of Portland.

Possibly the most iconic of all these weekend getaways in the USA, Las Vegas is a prime destination for short trips.

First-time visitors will certainly want to hit the Strip, even if only to check out the hotels, fountains, malls, and generally see what all the fuss is about–but there’s more to Vegas than the Strip (if you want there to be, that is).

Whether you want to hit the casinos to gamble and soak in some shows, check out Las Vega’s interesting (and far less touristed) downtown area, or get out and experience the fantastic natural highlights of the Southwest, Las Vegas has something to offer.

While the more-famous southern rim of the Grand Canyon is really too far away from Las Vegas to make a practical day trip, options like Valley of Fire State Park, Red Rock Canyon, and the Hoover Dam are all possibilities.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

• The Venetian: As one of the most iconic hotels on the Las Vegas strip this is a fabulous choice for your romantic trip. Everything about this resort is luxurious and huge, from the 1.2-acre pool deck to the in house shopping mall. Book a suite and feel like a real star.
• Bellagio: Fans of the Ocean franchise will know this hotel and its fountains, although almost any Las Vegas fans know the fountain show of the Bellagio! Stay in this famous hotel for the ultimate treat.

San Francisco

The city of hills, ocean views, and the famous Golden Gate Bridge is at the top of many people’s lists of best USA weekend getaways–and with an endless list of things to do that cater to all interests, why not?

Be sure to pay a visit to the touristed highlights that most interest you–Fisherman’s Wharf (and its adorable sea lions!), Alcatraz, walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, visiting the Painted Ladies (of Full House fame), and checking out Lombard Street.

Once you cross those highlights off your list, though, make time for a few less-obvious attractions, like San Francisco’s Japanese Garden, the Land’s End Labyrinth, and Fort Point.

And, of course, you can’t forget to go for a walk in the woods while visiting San Francisco: the Muir Woods are an unforgettable experience worthy of your time on any weekend trip to the area!

Where to Stay in San Francisco

• Petit Auberge: This adorable hotel in Nob Hill is the perfect place to base yourself for a romantic trip. Styled like a French Auberge with cozy furnishings and fireplaces in the rooms, opening onto pretty terraces, the hotel also has private parking. Essential in the city.
• Beacon Grand: Opened in 1928 as a hotel for the creators of San Francisco society and recently reopened after restoration preserving architectural details and artisan crafts. Stay in a stunning piece of history and feel like a star.

New York City

How much of New York can you see on just a USA weekend getaway? Enough that you’ll want to come back immediately.

New York certainly can’t be “done” in a weekend–nor can it be done in a lifetime–but the great thing about New York City is that no matter who you are or what your interests are, whether you want to track down iconic spots, explore the best food in New York , see a show (or three), or discover offbeat NYC , you can find something to captivate you.

For tourists hoping for the classic NYC experience like we were on our first few visits, a weekend in New York is certainly long enough to see all those sights we’ve seen in movies and shows throughout our lives!

Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, Times Square, the Public Library, a Broadway show or two, a visit to Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge–in a weekend, you can see all of that and more.

If you’re into museums, we also recommend hitting just one (no more–too much else to do!) during your weekend in New York: the Met, MOMA, and the Natural History Museum are all great, classic choices.

Where to Stay in New York

• The Plaza Hotel : For a memorable place to stay, this is one of the most classic and luxurious hotels in New York. It is located right by Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some of NYC’s most popular museums.
• The Renwick: Offering stylish residential style accommodation, this beautiful hotel is equipped with plenty of amenities and high class comfort. It is also a short walk to the Empire State Building and Bryant Park for exploring.

Incredibly beautiful and steeped in both American history and its own distinct, modern culture, Boston is one of those cities you visit for a weekend and fall in love with for a lifetime (we would know–we’ve been crazy about it ever since our brief 3-month stint of living there!).

While you’re there, be sure to visit the picturesque North End, fashionable Back Bay, and grand Beacon Hill–three Boston neighborhoods you absolutely can’t miss.

Also consider strolling through the Boston Public Garden (one of our favorite spots in the city) and the Boston Common, visiting the penguins at New England Aquarium, meandering along the Freedom Trail, and hitting the water with a whale-watching cruise .

Bibliophiles like us shouldn’t miss the Boston Public Library (check out the Reading Room on the second floor!), nor Brattle Bookshop.

Sports fans, head directly to Fenway Park for a tour and/or a game.

Where to Stay in Boston

• Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
• Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

Washington DC

Our country’s capital city is not only the seat of our national government, it’s also a fabulous place for a weekend trip in the United States, and an incredibly popular stop for visitors from other countries who are planning a trip to the USA !

Museum-goers will be delighted with the enormous array of impressive options to choose from in Washington DC–everything from the many Smithsonian Museums, to quirky options like the International Spy Museum, to meaningful stops like the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, are available–far more than you can visit in a single weekend.

Those interested in US History and government will also have plenty to keep them busy along the National Mall, including iconic stops like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial, and those looking to enjoy the city’s magnificent food scene will love taking a DC food tour .

Touring the US Capitol is always an interesting experience, and if you plan ahead, you may even be able to tour the White House!

While DC has plenty to offer year-round, there’s no doubt that cherry blossom season in Washington DC is one of the best (and most popular) times to visit.

As a bonus, many of the things to do in Washington DC , including all of the Smithsonian museums, are free to enter.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

• CitizenM Capitol : Another stunning example of CitizenM hotels is this location in Washington DC Capitol. Expect all the style and comfort these hotels are known for.
• Riggs Washington DC : Located in the former home of Riggs National Bank this iconic building is now home to a classic and beautiful hotel. Rooms are huge and comfortable and offer views of Penn Quarter.

The self-proclaimed live music capital of the world, the home of the world-famous SXSW festival, and a city full of classic American charm with a country flair: when you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in the USA, it would be a shame to leave off the gem that is Austin, TX.

I have lived in Austin as both a child and an adult, and when I wasn’t living there, returned at least 1-2 times a year for most of my life due to family living in the area–and I never, ever get tired of visiting to tuck into a plate a delicious breakfast tacos, general TexMex, or barbecue.

During your weekend trip to Austin , head down to South Congress for fabulous food, eclectic boutiques, and incredible street art, and “Dirty Sixth” for some unforgettable nightlife (or alternatively, Rainey Street or Guadalupe Street for a different vibe).

Of course, this is the capital of Texas, so save some time during your weekend trip to Austin for some more typical cultural highlights, like visiting the Texas State Capitol and the historic (and possibly haunted) Driskill Hotel.

Plus, as Austin is surrounded by the stunning Texas Hill Country, no trip there is complete without going for at least one hike in Austin and taking a day trip to beloved nearby towns and wineries– Wimberley and Fredericksburg are both favorites.

Where to Stay in Austin

• The Driskill: Originally built in 1886, The Driskill elegantly combines old-world charm with all of today’s modern luxuries. Dine at the award-winning on-site restaurant and enjoy the luxury of this iconic Austin landmark.
• Hotel Saint Cecilia: This hotel set in pretty gardens is a great oasis in the city. There is an onsite pool with private bungalows, perfect for relaxing.

Visiting Chicago means it’s time for pizza, pizza, and more pizza… and okay, probably some sightseeing as well.

The sprawling city of Chicago, set right up against beautiful Lake Michigan, is certainly worthy of being included on any list of the best weekend getaways in the USA–and there are definitely plenty of fun things to do in Chicago to keep you busy while you’re there, including plenty of opportunities to explore the culture, enjoy delicious food, and even get outside in Chicago .

Come to Chicago for the weekend to snap selfies at The Bean, test your fear of heights on the famous Chicago Skydeck, pay a visit to Navy Pier, and of course, to eat a lot of deep dish.

Art lovers will find plenty of museums to devour in Chicago, including the incredible Art Institute of Chicago, and baseball fans will enjoy seeing the Cubs play a game at the famous Wrigley Field. 

For animal lovers and family travelers, head directly to Shedd Aquarium (and for family travelers, make note of the American Girl Place as well–the highlight of my first visit to Chicago long, long ago!).

Where to Stay in Chicago

• Warwick Allerton: Situated on the Magnificent Mile in Downtown Chicago, the hotel is perfect for shopping and discovering iconic architecture.
• Staypineapple: This oddly named hotel was designed by a world renowned architect and features stylish details such as mosaic floors and marble ceilings. No detail is spared and rooms are a testament to the thought that has gone into each part of the hotel.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

18 thoughts on “15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA”

Safely, Detroit is not on your list. Detroit is a fabulous city and Michiganders are very friendly and likeable.

Austin is not the country music capital — it’s the live music capital.

Well isn’t that an embarrassing typo for someone who has owned a Keep Austin Weird shirt for 20 years! Lol. I’ll get it fixed.

Very interesting

Or Madison… both have their own unique quirks that can keep a weekend enjoyable

You forgot Richmond Virginia, which would probably run circles around half of these cities on your list.

Not even close Tony!

absolutely incorrect

Umm Philly????

Will go on the list when we expand it! We love Philly. 🙂

Boise is an awesome city in the west too!

Love what you do, just curious, how do you make ends meet?

Thanks, Priti!

We’re professional travel bloggers, so this website is our job.

We earn money through the display ads that you see while scrolling and sometimes get a commission (at no cost to you) if a reader books a tour/hotel/attraction through a link on our website. 🙂

How did Dallas not make the list

Cause it sucks.

Great ideas, thank you!

Personally, I absolutely loved San Antonio what a great little weekend get away!

We love it too–one of our former homes and one of our favorite places to eat in the country!

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17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow

Written By: Linda Voltaire

Updated On: December 21, 2022

Visiting Russia? These are the top 17 things to do in Moscow to help you plan your trip.

If the western world has New York City , the first great metropolis on the eastern side of our planet is Moscow. A huge city with a complicated and impressive history, Moscow gets a bad rep over Russian politics – but that doesn’t make it any less impressive. Capital to the largest country in the world, Moscow takes the grandeur of its standing very seriously.

This is a place where luxury is king and where opulence takes a front seat in every aspect of life. The buildings are grand and imposing, the parks are luscious and enormous, and even the subway stations look different in Moscow than anywhere else in the world.

Table of Contents

Best Things to do in Moscow, Russia

Walking around Moscow is also going through the tumultuous history of the 20th century, which had Russia as one of its main protagonists. There are fascinating remains of these times everywhere in the former Soviet capital, from the gorgeous Seven Sisters skyscrapers to the Orthodox cathedrals that were closed for the better part of a century.  Still, Moscow is also a completely modern city, with a vibrant social and party scene, incredible restaurants, and some of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

After living in Russia’s capital as an ex-pat for four years, I got the privilege to experience not only the main attractions in Moscow but also the everyday life in this huge city and quickly found my sweat spots off the beaten tracks! So here is my list of my top 17 things to do in this exciting metropolis!

Attractions in Moscow

When visiting a famous city like this one, it’s a must to go through the most iconic landmarks first. Moscow has plenty of those, most of them in the center of the city, which is very well-planned for tourists.

1. The Red Square, Kremlin & Surrounding Area

No place tells the story of Moscow’s power in the past century the way the Red Square does. This is where the biggest political meetings in the USSR occurred for many decades, and you can feel the power on each step.

Here, you’ll also find the historic museum at the entrance, showcasing the decades of history behind this iconic landmark. The Lenin Mausoleum, perhaps the most famous resting place in the world and home to the remains of the former communist leader, is also here.

On one side of the Red Square you’ll find the Kremlin, the fortified complex that now hosts the presidential residence. This is also home to the most iconic of all Moscovite landmarks: St. Basil’s Cathedral, a 16th-century marvel of colors. This is the best spot to take a selfie and show the world you’ve reached the Russian capital!

• Get your Kremlin Skip the Line Tickets and Kremlin tour here.
• Free cancellation up to 24-hours in advance of the tour.

2. Bolshoi Theatre

You can easily spend a couple of days just exploring the Moscovite city centre, and the Bolshoi Theatre should be your second stop. Walk past the Red Square and then head to the nearby Bolshoi Theatre, one of the oldest and most renowned houses of opera and ballet on Earth.

Visit for the impressive early 19th-century architecture, but if you’re seeing a ballet performance, make sure you book between 3 and 6 months in advance! I can strongly recommend this as it is a truly unique experience!

• Book a private 2-hour tour of the legendary Bolshoi Theatre.
• See the presidential box reserved for tzars, watch a rehearsal and skip the lines through a separate entrance.
• Free Cancellation up to 24-hours in advance.

3. Luxury Shopping at GUM and TSUM

While many might think of Moscow as the sad place with the long bread queues from the USSR days, it’s been quite the capitalist haven for a while.

If you’re up for some shopping, you’ll find one of the biggest luxury malls in town, TSUM, right behind the Bolshoi and GUM, at the red square. GUM is the most famous department store in town, where you’ll find luxury everywhere and all high-end brand. 

All in an imposing late 19th-century building with lots of history, worth a visit just for the design, its bridges and the glass roof even though you are not up for shopping!

4. Christ the Savior Cathedral

A newer addition to the gorgeous Moscovite cathedrals and my grandeur neighbor during my years in the city Don’t let the young age of this building fool you. After the perestroika in the early 90s, the newly revived Russian Orthodox Church received permission to build a cathedral on this site. They did the location honors and built the largest temple of the Christian Orthodox Church.

The façade is as grand as you’d expect, but it’s the inside that will mesmerize you, with its domes as tall as the skies in bright gold and gorgeous paintings and decor! Bring a shawl to cover your hair to adjust to the local tradition.

Head to the back of the cathedral and you will find one of the most photographed bridges in Moscow, the Patriarshiy Most. This is the perfect spot to get a good view and photo of the cathedral but also to see the Kreml and Gorky Park from a distance. Or why not just enjoy a moment watching the river and its boats!  

• Get around Moscow with ease using the Hop On Hop Off boat and Bus ticket. 24, 48 or 72-hour tickets available.

5. Gorky Park

Cross the river and head to Gorky Park along the Moscow river. The most famous green area in town, similar to New York ’s Central Park and the weekend hangout for locals. There are many beautiful parks in the city, but if you’re only visiting for a few days, this is the unmissable one! 

With fair attractions to entertain children, beautiful artificial lakes and gardens, and lots of outdoor activities, it’s a lovely place to relax. A place of rest in the middle of the metropolis. The area in front of the New Tretyakov Gallery & the Muzeon Park of Arts is actually one of my favorite oasis as a bit more quiet and peaceful than Gorky itself.

Why not spend some time in the museum to get a great tour of Russia’s history through art or just enjoy the art exhibition outside where local artists spend their weekends. 

6. River Cruising

One of the best ways to experience Moscow is from the Moscow River. There are many stops for the boats and one is just next to Gorky Park. See the city from another perspective – and turn the ride into a romantic one by taking the evening cruise. Moscow is magic during the night.

If you’re looking for a truly luxurious experience, take the Radisson Blu cruise – or the Erwin for a delicious seafood dinner. Both stop at Gorky or at the luxury Radisson Royal Hotel, set in one of the Seven Sister’s skyscrapers.

• We use Get Your Guide when booking city tours and they offer a River Sightseeing Cruise seeing all the main tourist attractions in Moscow

7. Metro Hopping

First inaugurated in the 1930s, the Moscow subway system is one of the oldest in the world, and certainly the most beautiful. Started under Stalinist times, each metro station is dedicated to grandeur and oozing personality.

Visiting the subway stops is an attraction in and of itself, and Komsomolskaya, Mayakovskaya, Kropotkinskaya are my favorites. Those surrounding the Red Square are also mesmerizing – in general, these are kind of like underground palaces.

Most of the signs at the Moscow Metro now have Latin letters, so it’s very easy to get around!Unfortunately, the trains are not as beautiful and pleasant as the stations but still, this is a true Moscow experience.  Take a guided tour of the 9 most beautiful Metro Stations including the award-winning art deco station. See more details here.

8. Arbatskaya & Artsy Moscow

Novy Arbat Street is one of the most touristy areas in the city, with lots of shops and cafés directed at visitors. When you walk a little beyond, you’ll find a different part of town, where the hip scene thrives because so many artists live in the area. Just follow the small streets with fewer tourists!

9. Moscow State University View

In his effort to create a grander Moscow, Stalin had seven skyscrapers built in different parts of town; they’re called the Seven Sisters. The largest of these buildings hosts the main building of the Moscow State University, one of the most prestigious colleges in Russia – and the one with the best view.

Although this is a little outside the city centre, the sight from above is more than worth it, with the nearby fountains and park and then the whole of the city behind them.

10. Russian Market

If you love to visit markets wherever you go, Moscow has one of the most impressive ones in the world – the Izmailovsky. You can easily take the metro here and feel like you’ve been transported to another time.

This place was first built in the 16th century and retains the look of an old fairytale, with a lineup of colorful old castle. A lovely local experience beyond the confines of the bustling metropolis, where you can also try some delicious Russian barbecue.

Here, you’ll find beautiful souvenirs at great prices.

Off The Beaten Track Moscow

Once you’ve covered the most touristic spots, Moscow still has plenty to offer – and the places below will also be full of locals! Moscow is a city for hipsters, full of trendy and arty spots where you can literally feel the creativity oozing! So for some local vibes, I would strongly recommend my sweat spots below!

11. Patriarshiye Prudy

This is my favorite area in the entire city! While Moscow is generally a very noisy metropolis, Patriarch Ponds is far quieter, yet such a vibrant place. This is a very hip and trendy area making you think you are rather in Paris than in Moscow. Here the streets are narrow and full of chic eateries and clubs to see the local crowd.

A little bohemian and with an air of peace you won’t find anywhere in the city this is a great spot to spend an afternoon with your thoughts.

12. ArtPlay

Barely 15 minutes away from the city center you’ll find the artsiest Moscow district: ArtPlay. For decades, this block was a factory, but it was renovated to become a hub for the arts not too long ago.

Now, you’ll find it’s full of exhibitions, showrooms and art schools – and some of the most creative people in town. Writers, painters, and young hip people use ArtPlay as a rendezvous, and you can feel the creative energy here. The industrial design with modern interior decoration is also a feast for the eyes!

13. Shopping Local Designs

If you’re into design, both international and local, you’ll find lots of cute things at Patriarshiye Prudy. Department store Podium Market is also a great spot for shopping, as a department store everywhere in town, with lots of local and international brands. There’s one in the Four Seasons Hotel next to Red Square. My favorite Moscow mall is Tsvetnoy Central Market, a cool spot with great brands, lots of inspo, and even a cute café!

14. Moscow City

Like many other great capitals of the world, for the past few decades, Moscow has hosted a super modern area full of modern skyscrapers – Moscow City. With a completely different vibe than the rest of town, it’s like a mini Dubai, with lots of impressively tall glass buildings. Here, you’ll find the best rooftops in towns, such as Ruski and Sixty they are perfect spots for dining or enjoying a glass of wine with a view. There are also a relatively new shopping mall with lots of international brands called Affimall!

Wine, Dine, and Party in Moscow

Gone are the gloomy Moscow days – cold as it might be in the winter, Russia’s capital is a place for the senses. Great food and drinks abound – and the clubs are hot, too!

15. Where to Eat in Moscow

Moscow is a great metropolis where people love to dine out, and there are endless options for delicious food. The flavors are as diverse as you’d expect from a big city, with options of fine dining and little hipster eateries. 

• For traditional Russian flavors, I can’t recommend Café Pushkin, Dr. Zhivago, and Turnadot enough.
• When looking for international cuisines, Italian is always the way to go, and my local favorite is Probka.
• Fine dining is best done among the clouds at White Rabbit, with European flavors.
• As for the hip spots, you can spend a full day just eating around trendy places, from burgers to Asian fusion.

More Dining Options

• Patriarshiye Prudy offers a lot of small and classy spots with cool concepts, like breakfast restaurants I Love Cake and Fresh.
• For dinner, I love the NYC experience of Saxon & Parole, and the wonderful trendy Pins, with its delicious food and drinks.
• For delicious Asian food head to CutFish. 
• Lastly, there’s a recent revival of food markets in Moscow, offering lots of great choices of international flavors at affordable places.
• Don’t miss out the Vietnamese food stand at the Danilovsky market, and everything at Usachevsky!

16. Rooftopping

Big cities deserve to be seen from above, having a cocktail among the clouds. These are my recommendations for rooftop bars in Moscow.

• As I mentioned in the Moscow City section, Sixty & Ruski are two of my favorites, overlooking the newest part of town. 
• White Rabbit and its fine dining is also a lovely place for a fun dinner looking down on Moscow.
• O2, in the city center, has an advantage above all others: amazing views of the Red Square.
• Buono, above the Radisson Royal Hotel, might be the most romantic rooftop hotel in town, with its candlelit setting.
• Also on the Radisson stands the Mercedes. It’s a luxurious and posh experience with delicious cocktails.
• The Sky Lounge offers a peculiar experience, mixing an old Soviet building with futuristic additions.

17. Moscow by Night

Party the night away! The city is full of bars everywhere, but there are some areas where you’ll find more than others.

• Patriarshiye Prudy has lots of hip and small clubs and great bars, including the super fun private club Clava, which has a great vibe and people from all walks of life.
• For more hipster style bars, Red October is the place to go.
• Streak is a summer favorite, with a lovely terrace to catch a beautiful sunset – plus, their mozzarella bar is delicious.
• At night, Red October lights up with clubs everywhere, including the cool rooftop one Gipsy.
• Jagger is also a great spot during summer with a more relaxed vibe in garden setting. 
• For the traditional Russian luxury experience, go to SohoRooms, a whole other world including all-night go-go dancers.

There are so many things to do in Moscow at night and during the day, you definitely need several days to explore this exciting destination.

Moscow is a must-see city, a city like no other ! I hope you will enjoy this Russian metropolis as much as I did!

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About Linda Voltaire

Linda Voltaire is the owner of Travel with a Silver Lining, home to reviews of gorgeous boutique & design hotels, hip & trendy eateries as well as authentic and personal travel experiences beyond the crowd. She started blogging after a life-changing trip across South America. Follow Linda at TravelWithASilverLining / Facebook / Instagram /

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10 thoughts on “17 Exciting Things to do in Moscow”

These places look so awesome! Moscow is truly a beautiful city

Very good article, you have explained so nicely. Russia has always been a part of history and its good to know about much more about architecture and other things, wish i could see the inside of façade

Thanks for sharing such a nice article.You have very beautifully explained everything that one need for a trip to Moscow.

Nice article. Love the hidden gems and graffiti art, would love to visit Artplay. Thanks for a comprehensive guide to Moscow!

Moscow is a city where the past and the future live side by side. Here we can find everything from medieval fortresses and Soviet monoliths to glass skyscrapers and innovation centers.

Your article is good and meaningful .

Thanks for sharing about ArtPlay district, we didn’t know about it and it looks amazing 🙂 Hopefully there’ll be a second time in Moscow, we visited last May and really liked the city!

Wonderful stuff! I’ve been to Moscow, but not properly – it’s a long story lol!

Anyhoo, my next thing is to fly from Berlin to Moscow and then travel from there to Beijing via the Trans-Mongolian / Trans-Siberian train. Now, if only I could just find the time …!

I hear Moscow is very beautiful at night. I hope to get out there one day. A friend of mine went to St. Petersburg and had a great experience. Despite all the tension we see on the news with Russia and other Countries like the U.S. I wonder what the sentiment is with Russians and foreigners visiting their country for tourism. Especially Americans.

that looks like quite a beautiful place. 🙂

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The 21 Best Weekend Getaways in Florida

By Terry Ward

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Many things can be said about the Sunshine State, but there's no denying its pull as a year-round destination for a weekend getaway or, if you can swing it, something longer. Particularly during the winter months, when much of the country is shoveling snow and scraping ice, the best things to do in Florida incorporate clear blue skies, wide and welcoming beaches, and a steady drip of Vitamin D that packs a powerful endorphin punch.

There's more than 1,300 miles of glorious coastline to explore here, from Northwest Florida all the way south to the Florida Keys, not to mention your choice of big cities, glitzy coastal enclaves and laid-back surf towns for a base. Favorable weather, affordability, water absolutely everywhere and appeal as a multi-generational vacation spot are just a few of the factors that make the state so attractive to visit. If you’re stumped on where to start, we’ve got you covered on the best weekend getaways in Florida to take—and our favorite to-dos to cross off on each one.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Florida’s it city right now is Tampa , which has found a place atop nearly every superlative list of late when it comes to American cities on the make and where to move. The buzz has much to do with downtown’s new wellness district, Water Street Tampa , anchored by luxury hotels like The Tampa EDITION and the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street (with Tampa’s highest rooftop bar, Beacon ) and booming with fun places to eat, among them brunch-favorite Boulon Brasserie , gastropub The Pearl , and happy hour hotspot Lona for margs and tacos al pastor.

Make time to stroll or bike along the Tampa Riverwalk to spots like Armature Work s, a stylish food hall within an old streetcar warehouse, and Stones Throw to slurp oysters in the open air along the Hillsborough River. Don’t sleep on Tampa’s other fun neighborhoods for some of the best things to do in Florida, like leafy Hyde Park just south of downtown along Hillsborough Bay where Palisociety just opened the intimate little Palihouse Hyde Park Village , a boutique hotel within walking distance of boutiques, parks and scenery new restos like Ro (come for nigiri and sashimi made with fresh fish flown in from Tokyo’s market). When you’re ready to hit the beach, St. Pete, Clearwater and pretty little Pass-a-Grille, a local’s favorite for sunset and sunbathing on the southern tip of St. Pete Beach, are less than 40 minutes away.

Florida’s beaches take the limelight, but the state’s lake-covered interior is nothing short of spectacular in its own tranquil right–particularly in the central region of the state nicknamed the “Heartland” in and around the adorable towns of Sebring and Lake Placid (less than two hours south of Orlando).

Start at Highlands Hammock State Park , with a boardwalk trail through a cypress swamp among the miles of walking trails and diverse environments home to more rare and imperiled species than even the Everglades. Airboat Wildlife Adventures takes guests on thrilling airboat tours with gators to be seen everywhere in the backwaters of massive Lake Istokpoga (if the captain asks if you want the tame or wild version, go wild every time). And you can tour pretty Lake June and try tubing with Lake June Pontoons . The best restaurants to bookmark in the area include Faded Bistro & Beer Garden , ensconced in tropical gardens, Morty & Edna’s Craft Kitchen for delicious breakfasts alongside the Saturday market in Lake Placid and Cowpoke’s Watering Hole , where real Florida countryside vibes and steakhouse eats await.

Make the quaint Inn on the Lakes , fronting Lake Jackson in Sebring, your base and wake up to sunrises that paint the sky crimson and ibises strolling the lakeshore below your balcony. Major auto races throughout the year draw crowds just outside of the pretty town to the Sebring International Raceway . And there are more natural escapes at every turn, too, in this lovely and little-discovered region.

Crystal River

Most people come to the sleepy little Gulf Coast Florida town of Crystal River , about an hour north of Tampa, to swim with the many, many manatees that descend on spectacularly beautiful and cerulean freshwater springs like Three Sisters within the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge. They come, muck like human sun-seekers drawn to Florida, to stay warm and survive the cooler winter months (November to March). You can head out on pontoon or paddling tours to snorkel with the gentle giants, an absolutely unforgettable experience, with operators like Birds Underwater Dive Center or Paddles Outdoor Rentals . And while you can’t approach them, don't be surprised if they come right up to you for a nuzzle, which is perfectly acceptable and simply epic. The Plantation on Crystal River , an old-school hotel with a lagoon-style pool and rooms right on the river, also runs manatee tours right from its watery doorstep. There are a few great waterfront seafood restaurants to hit in these fascinating Florida backwaters, too, including Waterfront Social , with a tiki bar on Kings Bay, and West 82 Bar & Grill for great grouper tacos and fish sandwiches.

Mount Dora and Lake County

To the north and west of Orlando, the great little lakeside towns of Clermont and Mount Dora in Lake County make for a different kind of sunny Florida getaway where you can spend time shopping antique treasure troves, snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of the Alexander Springs Recreation Area and kayaking the mile-long Dora Canal between neighboring lakes with operators like Adventure Outdoor Paddle .

Kimberly Wilson

Sarah James

Jessica Puckett

Jamie Spain

On flight-seeing seaplane tours with Jones Brothers Air & Seaplane Adventures , splash down in Lake Dora and spot for alligators as you fly over wild stretches of the Ocklawaha River. And don’t miss cocktails and a meal at The Goblin Market in Mount Dora’s historic downtown, where you can stay in style nearby at the Lakeside Inn , surrounded by oak trees draped with curtains of Spanish moss.

Pensacola and Perdido Key

You’re practically in Alabama by the time you venture this far into Northwest Florida, but it’s worth making the journey for some of the prettiest sands in the land as well as the interesting historic neighborhoods that await in Pensacola and the blizzard-white strip of blissful beaches along the barrier island of Perdido Key. For an urban stay, opt for the exquisite 15-room boutique hotel, Lily Hall , which opened in downtown Pensacola in 2023 within a historic Baptist church and is home to speakeasy and restaurant Brother Fox and Sister Hen .

Beyond Pensacola’s sublime beaches, experienced scuba divers love this stretch of Florida, too, for the chance to dive the wreck of the USS Oriskany–an 872-foot-long aircraft carrier-turned-artificial reed that’s just one of the fascinating underwater sights to explore along the Florida Panhandle Shipwreck Trail .

The Palm Beaches

What’s great about the Palm Beaches is that you can make your stay here as fancy or buttoned down as you like. Will you bed down at one of the grand oceanfront dames, like The Breakers Palm Beach , Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa , or the Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach , and spend your time sunning or at the spa? Or base across Lake Worth in downtown West Palm Beach instead at The Ben , a boutique hotel within walking distance to Las Olas Avenue’s shops and restaurants (use the complimentary house bikes to pedal across the bridge to hot Palm Beach restaurants like Henry’s Palm Beach and Sant Ambroeus) . You can go big on the greens at PGA National Resort . Or something quirkier, like a ship container Airbnb along the river in Jupiter at Headwaters Eco Retreat .

For some of Florida’s best snorkeling, no boat required, hit the Underwater Snorkeling Trail at Phil Foster Park , where you might spot oddities like octopuses, frog fish, and even eagle rays in the shallow waters near the Blue Heron Bridge in the Intracoastal Waterway.

Cocoa Beach

With an ongoing schedule of rocket launches , thanks to the commercial space industry here, Florida’s Space Coast—just east of Orlando on the Atlantic coast—is booming. For an authentic beach vacation close to nature where the focus is on the sun, surf, and sand, Cocoa Beach delivers with its pretty beaches and easy access to nature. There’s not much in the way of luxury resort life here, but Beach Place Guesthouses promise a lovely oceanfront stay with hammocks and palm trees everywhere and loaner surfboards at the ready. Make time for the short drive north to Titusville, where you can head out after sunset on bioluminescent paddling tours into the Indian River Lagoon with A Day Away Kayak Tours . Scout for alligators, manatees and roseate spoonbills while driving along the Black Point Wildlife Drive at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge , popular with birders. During the summer months, ranger-led sea turtle walks depart from here for a chance to spy nesting sea turtles laying their eggs on nearby Canaveral National Seashore.

Winter Park, Orlando

Orlando’s theme parks are just one reason to plan a trip to the city. What many travelers don't realize is that Orlando has far more to offer than park-hopping, including one of Florida’s most exciting food scenes, especially in the Mills 50 district, home to a surprising array of Vietnamese and Southeast Asian restaurants.

Explore the pretty bricked streets of the Winter Park neighborhood (which feels, dare we say, almost European?), near downtown, from a home base at boutique an art-centric property, Alfond Inn , within walking distance of buzzy restaurants like Italian favorite, Prato , and the Saturday morning Winter Park Farmers’ Market. You can head out by boat to tour the chain of lakes nearby, too.

Early 2024 will see the opening of Conrad Orlando in the sprawling Evermore Orlando Resort , with its sparkling man made lagoon and lavish vacation homes for rent. And near the airport, the neighborhood of Lake Nona and the Lake Nona Wave Hotel are ideally situated for strolling out to markets, dining and entertainment at places like Boxi Park and just getting some exercise in fresh air on pathways lining the area’s many lakes. In downtown Orlando, AC Hotel Orlando Downtown is within walking distance of the city’s green lung, Lake Eola Park, that hosts another excellent weekly farmers market on Sundays, complete with a beer garden under a canopy of live oak trees.

St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach

Two wings of the same bird, St. Pete Beach and Clearwater Beach, just west of downtown Tampa , deliver some of Florida’s most enviable white sand beaches, each with a distinct beach town ambience. Edgier St. Petersburg is known for its vast collection of street murals scattered throughout downtown, the Dalí Museum (with a great onsite cafe serving Spanish tortilla and crema Catalana) and grand hotels like the cotton candy-hued Don CeSar (on the beach), or The Vinoy , which recently emerged from a comprehensive renovation in 2023.

The spectacularly modern and intuitive St. Pete Pier —with its bikeable perimeter, rooftop tiki bar, beach on the bayfront, playground, and art installations—has completely upgraded the downtown St. Pete experience for pedestrians and is a joy to stroll.

Clearwater Beach gets crowded during peak vacation times but skews extra family friendly, with sands that are particularly powdery, shallow waters for swimming, nightly sunset celebrations at Pier 60, and stylish beach resorts fronting the Gulf of Mexico that include the Sandpearl Resort , Opal Sands Resort , and the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach .

Panama City

Spring breakers make for Panama City Beach. But neighboring Panama City proper is a Panhandle revelation home to an Oyster Trail with a dozen restaurants proffering the fruits of the local Gulf and a burgeoning Mural Trail , too. Less than a five-hour drive from cities like Atlanta , Birmingham, New Orleans , and Jacksonville, Panama City—with its historic downtown and easy access to the nearby sugar sand beaches of Panama City Beach—might surprise you. Right downtown, the History Class Brewing Company is a brand new gastropub that nods to the city’s history with old time artifacts in its design, and mango and guava infused wheat beer on tap. Don’t miss a visit to nearby Historic St. Andrews , ten minutes away, a funky fishing village with streets lined with oyster shells, a few decent waterfront restaurants for a seafood meal, and pretty Oaks by the Bay Park, with its highly Instagrammable and ancient oak tree, "Old Sentry," estimated to be more than 250 years old. Stay nearby at The Pearl in Rosemary Beach, where a boardwalk over the dunes leads to the most beautiful beach.

Jacksonville Beaches

The first major beach resort area you hit heading south along Interstate-95 into Florida, the Jacksonville Beaches are a string of several laid-back and surf-centric communities. Atlantic Beach—home to the oceanfront One Ocean resort, retro boutique hideaway The Hotel Palms and miles of dunes backed with stately oceanfront homes—and the friendly little surf community of Neptune Beach are our favorites for their untrammeled-by-the-masses appeal. If you’re here on the third Thursday of the month, the monthly Art Walk in Atlantic Beach and Neptune Beach is a perfect outdoor outing before grabbing dinner at one of the nearby restaurants, like the open-air Sliders Oyster Bar or Flying Iguana , with excellent margs and guacamole prepped tableside.You can mingle with the locals during a beach cleanup event organized by Beaches Go Green .

St. Augustine

It’s an easy 33-mile road trip south from Jacksonville to visit St. Augustine, which claims to be the oldest city in the U.S. and is home to historic sites and preserved buildings, such as the 17th century Castillo de San Marcos National Monument (check the website for closures), a Spanish fortress with a commanding waterfront location. If you’re a surfer, catch some waves at Vilano Beach before sunset cocktails just back from the breakers at The Reef .

Naples and Marco Island

Continuing south from Fort Myers, the areas of Naples and nearby Marco Island make up Florida’s Paradise Coast, which has a tropical feel thanks to the mangroves (and mangoes, when in season, from late May to October) everywhere. You’re also close to one of the most renowned wilderness areas in the U.S., Everglades National Park . The Gulf Coast Visitors Center entrance is in Everglades City—an easy road trip of less than an hour southeast of Naples—where you can head out on pontoon boat cruises into the Ten Thousand Islands then feast on stone crab claws for lunch at the dockside Camellia Street Grill as air boats and fishing boats cruise by. For a beautiful beach stay that will facilitate all those nature outings and plenty of strolls past the outdoor cafes along Naples' Fifth Avenue, make your base LaPlaya Beach Resort or Edgewater Beach Hotel in Naples. Another beachfront beauty, The Ritz-Carlton, Naples is better than ever after emerging from comprehensive renovations in 2023, with a brand new tower and Champagne lobby bar among the many upgrades.

Just south, on Marco Island, the JW Marriott Marco Island is known for its excellent rum bar on the beach, world-class spa and dedicated adults-only wing, Paradise by Sirene, with Balinese-inspired rooms and a private rooftop pool and sundeck.

Less than two hours south of Orlando, Vero Beach is the spot along Florida’s Atlantic Coast where things start to take a turn toward the truly sub-tropical, South Florida vibe—you’ll notice it in the emerald tangles of palms and sea grapes, and the that-much-bluer-than-justp-north hues of the water lapping the coast here. Lanai suites at the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa —a boutique oceanfront spot that's just a quick stroll to all the shops and cafes downtown—make for a comfortable and convenient stay. And nearby Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa , also oceanfront, is particularly appealing for a couples escape, with stroll-out suites on the ground floor that are just steps from the beachfront hot tub and sand.

Make time to check out nearby Sebastian Inlet, popular with surfers and anglers, and plan to kayak into the Indian River Lagoon with a rental from the Environmental Learning Center, where you’ll also find boardwalks and marine life exhibits to explore. For something fun with kids in tow (or if you're feeling lucky), rent a metal detector from the Mel Fisher Treasure Museum and try your hand at treasure hunting at Wabasso Beach—after all, this is the Treasure Coast, and people still regularly find loot (coins, jewelry and the like) from the 1715 fleet of Spanish treasure ships that wrecked in a hurricane just offshore.

Hutchinson Island, Fort Pierce, and Jensen Beach

Often overlooked by people beelining it between Vero Beach and Fort Lauderdale on Florida’s East Coast, Fort Pierce and Hutchinson Island just, in St. Lucie and Martin counties, are the spots to channel a slice of forgotten Florida on miles of uncrowded beaches (you can even go horseback riding on the sand here). Base yourself beachfront at Hutchinson Shores Resort & Spa in Jensen Beach where you can get around easily by bike to explore. The Florida Oceanographic Coastal Center , on Hutchinson Island, fronts the Intracoastal Waterway and rehabilitates sea turtles, rays and nurse sharks, which swim in pretty lagoons fed by Indian River. Fort Pierce has a cute downtown area anchored by Sailfish Brewing Company and is the place to head out on a charter fishing trip into the Gulf Stream to troll for mahi.

Beaches of South Walton

For the kind of water you thought only lived on screen savers and sand so fine you’ll want to pop it into an hourglass, the beaches of South Walton in Florida’s Panhandle rise to the top. Vacation rentals where you can sip your morning coffee as dolphins pass by just offshore are plenty in spots like Santa Rosa Beach, Grayton Beach, and Seaside. In Sandestin, Hotel Effie , has a swanky rooftop pool and lounge. And iconic gulf coast properties like the WaterColor Inn , fronting the Gulf of Mexico, put you right along Scenic 30A, where you can drive with coastal views, stop to paddle in freshwater dune lakes (a rare phenomenon that happens only here and a few other places in the world, including Madagascar) or make a stop for some beer-tasting at the Grayton Brew Company . Ecotourism opportunities get you out enjoying Florida’s nature at every turn along this stretch of coastline, whether by ebike along the sandy backroads or from the seat of a kayak, exploring Northwest Florida’s best watery trails.

Anna Maria Island

Often overlooked by visitors drawn to the big name beaches of St. Pete and Clearwater, this largely residential island just south on the gulf coast, less than an hour from Tampa and about 30 minutes north of Sarasota, is a slice of old Florida many don’t realize exists. Anna Maria Island is a great place to score a vacation rental on a canal or fronting the Gulf of Mexico. ( Pineapplefish has the prettiest of the bunch), or you can stay in nearby Holmes Beach at the Waterline Marina Resort & Beach Club , with slips for travelers with boats in tow.

The best beachfront hotel to open of late is Mello on the Beach , an adorable low-rise property just steps from the sand that channels a Palm Springs vibe with mid century-inspired furniture, pastel color pops everywhere and a boomerang-shaped pool stocked with fun floaties.

Anna Maria Island is blissfully bereft of chain stores and golf carts are the preferred mode of transport. You can pedal around by bike everywhere, too, with a Surrey (or regular) bike rental from Beach Bums.

Sarasota and Longboat Key

To mix an artsy town with some of Florida’s most gorgeous gulf beaches, spend your vacation exploring downtown Sarasota and the neighboring beaches of Longboat Key, less than 90 minutes south of Tampa. Make a gulf front room at Zota Beach Resort or a beachfront condo with several bedrooms just back from the dunes (and a lovely beachfront barbecue area for grilling) at Sand Cay Beach Resort your base on this sublime stretch of coastline. For more luxury on the beach, level up with a stay at The Resort at Longboat Key Club , located at the pristine southernmost tip of Longboat Key. The St. Regis Longboat Key Resort is also slated to up the accommodation ante here in 2024 with a magnificent beachfront setting, 166 rooms and luxury condos.

When you need a break from the sand and sun, cross the bridge to downtown Sarasota, home to the magnificent Ringling Museum of Art, named for the circus baron and housing an incredible collection of European Old Masters paintings within bayfront grounds landscaped with tropical flowers and trees. For contemporary art, the Sarasota Art Museum of Ringling College , inside the town's gothic style former high school, is worth a visit. And when it’s time for slurping more oysters with river views, Phillippi Creek Oyster Bar is just a short drive south.

Miami Beach

Miami is booming with vacationers who wouldn’t have Florida any other way—that is, with its warm-as-the-Caribbean waters and intoxicating multicultural vibe. Miami Beach always beckons for a stay fronting the Atlantic Ocean at ultra-luxe spots like The Setai or The Faena , and Art Deco icons like adults-only property The National Hotel. But downtown Miami and neighborhoods like Brickell, Wynwood ,and the latest creative hub Little River are worth toweling off for to explore. Off the sand, book a room overlooking Biscayne Bay at the Mandarin Oriental Miami or the Kimpton EPIC Hotel , with one of the city’s most swoon-worthy rooftop pools. Make time to venture away from the sand and city and onto the water itself with a boat tour into Biscayne National Park that departs from Coconut Grove with the Biscayne National Park Institute and visits spots like Stiltsville (where wooden houses over above the clear water) and Boca Chita Key.

Not to be lumped in with Miami Beach, just south, pedestrian-friendly Surfside sprawls across a short half-square mile and beckons with tangible family-friendly appeal. The Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club (a Gold List winner for 2024) is a favorite thanks to its Art Deco style, incredible bar program with a seasonal retro-chic cocktails, complimentary kids club, adults-only pool, and gorgeous beachfront setting. Surfside’s compact downtown district, along Harding Avenue, just a few blocks from the beach, brims with boutiques and restaurants (beeline it for the crunchy spicy tuna latkes at Josh’s Deli). From May to November—during walks along the beach in the mornings, in particular—keep your eyes open for sea turtle hatchlings making a break for the ocean.

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys and Key West might be one of the best weekend getaways in Florida that connects you with what a true vacation in this state is all about. Made mostly of coral, the islands that make up the Keys aren’t known for their beaches at all, although there are a few of those (the stretch at Bahia Honda State Park , good for snorkeling right from the beach in grassy flats just offshore, is one of the finest). Your best bet for watery fun in the Florida Keys, however, is to get out onto—and, preferably, into—the turquoise waters via boat trips, snorkeling excursions, or on a kayak or stand up paddle board. You’ll want to be back on land in time for the ritual of sunset spectating, of course, to toast with something tropical and frosty. Key West has the bulk of the resorts and hotels, as well as endless restaurants and bars to explore. But low-key, world class resorts abound throughout the Florida Keys, and include two noteworthy adults-only havens: Little Palm Island Resort & Spa , on its own private island, and Bungalows Key Largo . To feel like you're in Santorini, with white washed buildings and water views at every turn, Isla Bella Beach Resort on Marathon is truly transporting, too.

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Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

• Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
• Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
• Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

• The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

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Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for  Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain. 

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways:  traditional Russian food  at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your  pelmeni , borsch , and  pirozhki  fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous  plombir  ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my  top tips for travelers to Russia  is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).  

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters. 

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays. 

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

• English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
• A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly! 

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and  Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or  sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

• St. Petersburg itinerary
• Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
• Ulaanbaatar itinerary
• Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

This post was updated in December 2020.

The 14 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Missouri

Liz is a Missouri native with a B.A. in English from Mizzou and a M.A. in Non-Profit Administration from Lindenwood University. She works for a STL metro-area community college and enjoys writing, traveling, and indoor cycling. Her true passion is forcing her encyclopedic knowledge of Missouri facts on uninterested strangers from across the globe!

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Missouri is a state that offers a lot to explore. If ever you’ve thought to yourself, “What are some epic day trips near me in Missouri?” then you’ve come to the right place. Whether you like spending time outdoors, learning about Missouri’s rich history, or sitting down to a nice meal, this list of iconic day trips in Missouri has it all. Create lasting memories by taking a road trip to any or all of these Missouri destinations.

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We hope we’ve helped provide some ideas for some new and exciting day trips in Missouri. Have you visited any of the destinations on our list? What other places in Missouri are worth the drive for a visit? Let us know in the comments – we’d love to hear from you! Be sure to check out our ultimate bucket list for everyone in Missouri .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Day trips near me in missouri.

What belongs on my Missouri bucket list?

A few things to put on your Missouri bucket list include:

• Anheuser-Busch Brewery
• Onondaga Cave State Park
• St. Louis City Museum
• Taum Sauk Mountain
• St. Louis Zoo
• Ozark Trail
• Les Bourgeois Vineyards

Traveling through Missouri is always a good idea, whether you're a lucky resident of the state or simply passing through. There's so much to see in do in the Show-Me State, from natural wonders to mouthwatering restaurants, quirky roadside stops, historic landmarks, and just about everything in between. In an effort to help you make the most of your time in Missouri, we've compiled a bucket list of things to do. Our ultimate Missouri bucket list includes the following: the Anheuser-Busch Brewery in St. Louis, Onondaga Cave State Park, a Kansas City BBQ restaurant, Katy Trail, a float trip down the river, the St. Louis City Museum, St. Charles, visiting the top of Taum Sauk Mountain (which is the tallest point in the state of Missouri), the St. Louis Zoo, Ozark Trail, a trip to Fitz's for a root beer float, Forest Park, Les Bourgeois Vineyards, the Gateway Arch, and Johnson Shut-Ins State Park.

What are some of the most unique places in Missouri?

Some of the most unique places in Missouri include:

• World's Largest Fork
• Leila's Hair Museum
• Cookin' From Scratch
• Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail
• Vacuum Museum and Factory
• Laclede's Landing Wax Museum

There are so many incredible attractions in Missouri, and many of them are known the world over. But if you're looking to dive a little deeper and uncover some truly unique places, we have just the list for you. Some of the oddest places you can possibly go in Missouri include the following: the World's Largest Fork in Springfield, Leila's Hair Museum in Independence, Cookin' From Scratch in Doolittle, the World's Largest Rocking Chair on Route 66, the Vacuum Museum and Factory in St. James, the Nuclear Waste Adventure Trail in St. Charles, Laclede's Landing Wax Museum in St. Louis, and the World's Largest Pecan in Brunswick. It sure seems like Missouri is home to many of the "world's largest" oddities, doesn't it? Learn more about these bizarre destinations you can visit in Missouri .

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Things To Do | 7 terrific Bay Area things to do this weekend,…

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Things To Do | 7 terrific Bay Area things to do this weekend, March 22-24

Spring has sprung, which makes this a great weekend for … doing what we always do. And some great weekend trips, shows, concerts and other fun stuff await.

1 SEE & HEAR: Great shows are all over

From basketball-themed plays to an exhibit honoring women rock concert poster artists, there are a lot of cool things to see and do this weekend.

2 PLAY: Say yes to Yountville

For a relatively small community, Napa County’s Yountville has a lot of cool places to eat, sip and play. Here’s an itinerary to fill your weekend.

3 READ: The art of common-sense cooking

Ina Garten protege Lidey Heuck just dropped a new cookbook, “Cooking in Real Life: Delicious & Doable Recipes for Every Day,” and shared with us some of her no-nonsense tips and recipes for home chefs.

4 COOK & EAT: Mmmm … minestrone

The best thing about minestrone soup — besides its hearty flavor — is how you can adjust it to fit any kind of meal or season.

5 SEE & HEAR: Living paintings on display

Once a year, a Walnut Creek church revives a centuries-old art form of re-creating religious paintings using live actors and artists. Here’s how you can see it.

6 SEE & HEAR: The Plastics are back

“Mean Girls,” the stage musical adapted from the iconic movie, is in San Jose for a short run, and we have a hunch your Gen Z daughters will get a kick out of it.

7 WATCH: ‘Road House’ returns …

… And, yes, it’s every bit as dumb, good, violent and FUN as the original. It tops our roundup of new movies and shows you should know about.

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9 Undeniably Fun Weekend Trips To Take If You Live In South Carolina

I f you ask us, weekends are spelled f-u-n, and there’s not much that’s more fun than taking a trip to somewhere you’ve never been before or to a favorite locale you just didn’t have enough time to explore on a previous visit! Some places you may never tire of visiting. For some inspiration for the best weekend trips in South Carolina , we’ve put together some ideas that include spots in neighboring states with a reasonable drive time, as well as a few of those that will keep you within the state.

1. Asheville, North Carolina

2. charlotte, north carolina, 3. wilmington, north carolina, 4. helen, georgia, 5. savannah, georgia, and now, we'll transition to some weekend trips to take right here in south carolina. 6. greenville.

One of the most fun places to eat in Greenville for couples is the Better Than Sex dessert restaurant, where first time guests are known as virgins. And for the rest of the experience, you'll have to visit for yourself! Afterwards, we recommend a stay at this romantic treehouse .

Greenville has been ranked by Businessweek as the #5 most fun and affordable city in America, qualifying it as one of those locales you're not likely to tire of visiting. These handful of suggestions for adventure don't even really begin to scratch the surface but provide you with the best option for a romantic weekend getaway trip in South Carolina!

7. Myrtle Beach

Most people who think about South Carolina travel probably think of Myrtle Beach, with its average of almost 20 million visitors each year! It may not necessarily make the list for a weekend trip, as families often take a beach vacation there for a week. Either way, it's yet another spot that offers so much in the way of entertainment that you'd probably never run out of new things to do there either. In fact, if your primary reason for visiting is to enjoy the beach, you may not even have explored much of the other exciting attractions.

Wonder Works is one we'd recommend checking out, where you'll enjoy over 40,000 square feet of interactive fun including hands-on exhibits, simulators, scavenger hunts, a ropes course, an arcade, and more. It's located at Broadway at the Beach, which is a massive shopping and entertainment complex you could further explore when you leave Wonder Works. One of the newer restaurant and entertainment venues there called The Hangout would be a great spot for a bite to eat. You really could spend the entire weekend right here at Broadway at the Beach!

8. Charleston

It's probably a safe assumption that most of us who live in South Carolina have been to Charleston at least once. But just like both Greenville and Myrtle Beach, it certainly is not lacking in having an abundance of things to do. We would suggest taking a weekend to visit without any definitive plans and decide once there what you want to do! Try some of the restaurants you didn't get a chance to visit in the past, take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful streets in the historic district and just take in the scenery without an agenda, per se. Sometimes when we have a strict itinerary in mind, we forget to stop and smell the roses along the way!

You also could explore some of the areas surrounding Charleston such as Mount Pleasant or the barrier islands . This birdhouse style Airbnb on Folly Beach would be fun to stay overnight in!

9. Hilton Head

And there you have it, Friends. Which of these weekend trips in South Carolina appeals most to you and why?

The post 9 Undeniably Fun Weekend Trips To Take If You Live In South Carolina appeared first on Only In Your State ® .

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14 things to do in the Seattle area this weekend

Welcome to the weekend! From a buzzy new restaurant to one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest Festival of Colors celebrations, here’s the latest on local things to do.

Eats and drinks

• Head north for a foodie day trip . From doughnuts shaped like chicken drumsticks to a cozy cocktail den, Edmonds has culinary delights aplenty, our food writer finds.
• On Beacon Hill, people are lining up for seats at familyfriend , where the latest Seattle smash burger is all the rage. Our critic’s tip? Explore the whole menu.
• To cook something sweet at home, try this Holi-inspired tiramisu or this almond biscotti recipe shared by a Skagit Valley bakery.

Outdoors and travel

• The University of Washington cherry blossoms are reaching peak bloom after a warmer-than-usual start to spring. Here’s what to know about this season as you continue enjoying the blossoms .
• Head to Walla Walla for some “seriously good” wine with fun backstories. These three Washington wineries are run by celebrities: a “Twin Peaks” actor and two former NFL players.
• Pickleball at this Green Lake court is a great way to meet new friends, our writer finds. You don’t have to be a pro or have fancy equipment — but a little patience will come in handy.
• As it celebrates its 20th anniversary season, Seattle’s Moisture Festival has become the longest-running vaudeville festival in the U.S., organizers say. This year, it runs March 21 to April 14, with tickets ranging from $10 to $60.
• Pacific Northwest Ballet planned to perform Alejandro Cerrudo’s “One Thousand Pieces” in 2020, but shows were canceled amid COVID shutdowns. Now it’s finally on stage, showing through March 24.
• Our arts writer recommends seeing these food-related art exhibits , from holographic ice cream to creative looks at how our bodies deal with food.
• ACT Contemporary Theatre’s “Stew” features a stellar array of Seattle talent and reveals patterns and secrets passed down between generations. The play runs through March 31.

Related latest concert news

• Chateau Ste. Michelle announces full 2024 concert lineup
• 5 buzzy Seattle concerts coming to local clubs and theaters this spring

Community events

• The Hindu festival Holi, also known as the Festival of Colors, celebrates the arrival of spring and falls on March 25 this year. Here’s how to celebrate it the Puget Sound area — including a Redmond event dubbed as the Pacific Northwest’s largest color festival.

Movies and TV

• Heading to the theaters? Check out what our critics thought of “Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire,” “Tótem,” “Road House” and other recent releases .
• Local writer Ross McMeekin features the Pacific Northwest in his debut short story collection, “Below the Falls.”
• Check out the latest shop featured in Neighborhood Reads . Even after a recent pipe burst damaged the Kent bookstore, Page Turner Books is a nerdy book-lover’s destination, our writer finds.

Most Read Entertainment Stories

• Kate, Princess of Wales, reveals she has cancer and is undergoing chemotherapy WATCH
• New MoPOP 'Massive' exhibit asks, 'What is pop culture?' VIEW
• 'Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire' review: A fan service-heavy sequel WATCH
• PBS' 'Invisible Shield' examines lifesaving responses to COVID pandemic WATCH

The opinions expressed in reader comments are those of the author only and do not reflect the opinions of The Seattle Times.

Looking for fun events? Top 5 things to do around Tallahassee

Spring is doing its beautiful thing all over town.

The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra sets the musical mood on Saturday with A Summer's Midday Dream, Gustav Mahler's stirring 3rd Symphony.

Adderley Amphitheater lifts it up with swaying and swinging to heavenly gospel this weekend for the two-day Jubilee Music Festival.

Here's a roundup of entertaining events around Tallahassee, culled from emails, the  Council on Culture & Arts  online listings and elsewhere.

1. Reach for 'Dream' with Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra

The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra greets the season with Mahler Three: A Summer's Midday Dream at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 23, in Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. There's an open dress rehearsal at 7 p.m. Friday. Tickets for the concert run from $35-$64. Visit tallahasseesymphony.org.

With six movements, Mahler’s colossal 3rd Symphony is one of the greatest works in the standard symphonic repertoire. A hymn to nature, “summer’s midday dream” will take you on a journey from the earthly to the divine. Maestro Darko Butorac will lead this epic work performed live by over 150 musicians, all led by Maestro Darko Butorac.

2. Lift your spirits at Jubilee Music Festival

Get ready for two days of singing and rejoicing at the Jubilee Music Festival at the Adderley Amphitheater in Cascades Park on March 22-23. The extraordinary lineup of gospel music luminaries includes The Clark Sisters, Jekalyn Carr, Todd Dulaney, Pastor Mike Jr., and Yolanda Adams. Local church choirs and praise and worship teams will also be invited to participate during the weekend. Be sure to select Friday, Saturday or both nights when purchasing tickets. The event is in partnership with the FWPC Community Development Council.

Friday's show starts at 6 p.m. and features Lisa Knowles-Smith, The Brown Singers, Yolanda Adams and Todd Dulaney. TIckets are $35 for general admission, $45 for P2 Reserved Seating, $55 for P1 Reserved Seating.

Saturday's show starts at 6 p.m. and features Pastor Mike Jr., Jekalyn Carr & the Clark Sisters. Tickets are $40 for general admission, $50 for P2 Reserved Seating, $60 for P1 Reserved Seating. Visit theadderleyamphitheater.com.

This weekend: Jubilee Music Festival adds power of gospel to city’s bicentennial celebrations

3. Time travel at Tallahassee History Festival

Everything is history for the bicentennial year as the Third Annual Tallahassee History Festival kicks off this weekend. Tallahassee Community College and Theater with a Mission team up to bring history, science, the arts, and lots of fun to Kleman Plaza from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday March 23.

Have your picture taken with Pricilla the Mastadon. Make a map. Join a parade. Visit tables and while learning something get a passport stamped. Listen to speakers, taste some food, learn historic dances, meet people from 200 years ago. The free event offers fun for both K-12, college students and the whole family. The festival features programs and activities by historical organizations from around the state, as well as some of our local favorites. Visit tcc.fl.edu.

4. Take a Free Day at Mission San Luis

Get a big dose of Native American history and heritage at a free celebration from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at Mission San Luis, 2100 W. Tennessee St. The mission is celebrating Florida Archaeology Month 2024 with a day of archaeology, living history and fun activities at Mission San Luis.

Events include archaeology-related activities for the whole family, including a copper embossing craft, archaeological soil sifting, atlatl spear throwing, and archaeological surveying. There will be guided tours of the Bureau of Archaeological Research Collections Facility, presentations by archaeologists, and information tables from partner organizations. Visit missionsanluis.org.

5. Make merry with music at Blue Tavern

Get your weekend started with the tasteful selection of tunes by Steve Malono and friends from 5-7 p.m. Friday, March 22, at Blue Tavern, 1206 N. Monroe St.

Then make way for RoboCromp, the long-running duo of Atlanta saxophonist Jeff Crompton and Tallahassee guitarist Rob Rushin-Knopf, taking the stage at 8 p.m. Since 2004, their blend of jazz, rock, and folk music of the world has captivated listeners. They combine original compositions with works by the likes of Thelonious Monk, Cecil Taylor, Steve Lacy, and more. $10 cover.

The 4th Saturday Old Time Jam gets cranking from 4-7 p.m. Saturday with hosts Laura Gayle Green and Steve Hodges, that's followed at 8 p.m. by Jazzmatazz presents the Peterson-Bakan-Hall trio. Class is back in session and the professors are in the house with Bill Peterson on piano, joined by Brian Hall on bass and Michael Bakan on drums. $10 cover.

Dining out: On the hunt for brunch? Take a look at 14 restaurants in Tallahassee with Easter offerings

Bonus event: Suwannee Spring Reunion gathers at the river

The twangtastic annual Suwannee Spring Reunion gets some spicy R&B tang this weekend when Bettye LaVette makes her debut appearance at the gathering of Americana artists and fans on Friday.

LaVette is a Motor City music legend whose latest album, “LaVette!,” delves into the deep songbook of singer-songwriter Randall Bramblett. She’ll take the stage at 6 p.m. Friday on the Amphitheatre Stage at Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park on the banks of the Suwannee River in Live Oak.

The lineup also includes Suwannee Spring Reunion stalwarts Donna the Buffalo, the Steep Canyon Rangers, Sam Bush, Railroad Earth, Jim Lauderdale, Peter Rowan, Verlon Thompson, Keller Williams and many more. For ticket and camping information, visit suwanneespringreunion.com .

Bonus event: Cello Quartet closes Thomasville series

Thomasville Entertainment Foundation’s 86th concert series concludes next week with a unique classical musical ensemble, the Galvin Cello Quartet.

The international group takes the stage at the Thomasville Center for the Arts at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, at and seats are still available for the concert, featuring a diverse program of works by Antonio Vivaldi, David Popper, Richard Wagner, Gioachino Rossini and Carlos Gardel, among others.

Tickets are $40 for adults, $15 for students, and all seats are reserved. For more information or for tickets to the March 26 performance, visit tefconcerts.com or call the TEF office at 229-226-7404.

Music venue: The Sound Bar: A family-owned music venue pursues a dream in Tallahassee

OTHER EVENTS

B Sharps Jazz Club: Carlos Vega Quintet performs at 7 p.m. Saturday, March 23, at B Sharps, 648 W. Brevard St. Tickets are $25. The band features Kyle Swan, drums; Tim Stanley, trumpet;  Joshua Ramos, bass; Whitney Ashe; piano. Visit gerriseay.org.

The Bark: Fri March 22 - Clever Girl  plays at The Bark on Friday, March 22. Doors open at 8: p.m., show at 9 p.m., $10, all ages.

Blue Tavern: Happy hour from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday features Shape Note Singing, followed at 8 p.m. by Bluesday Tuesday with Belmont & Jones. $5 cover. Happy hour with Kelly Goddard 5-7 p.m. Wednesday followed at 8 p.m. by Open Mic Night. Conor Churchill plays happy hour Thursday, followed at 8 p.m. by Bottom Dollar Boys. $5 cover.

Great Oaks Pub at Southwood: The Allie Cats are coming to Southwood from 6:30-9:30 p.m. Friday. Featuring the powerhouse vocals of Allie McKay, the group will be performing the best of Americana and Rock. Full restaurant and ba. Call 850-942-4653 for reservations, no cover.

House of Music: Maddy Walsh & The Blind Spots, a tenured, original, six-piece Moxy Rock band, is steered by magnetic songstress and force of nature Maddy Walsh, 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 22, at House of Music, 2011 S. Monroe St. Tickets are $15. Visit houseofmusictally.com. Anna Wescoat & Company play traditional country music at 8 p.m. Saturday.

Opening Nights: Damn Tall Buildings : the three members of Damn Tall Buildings (guitarist/lead vocalist Max Capistran, bassist/lead vocalist Sasha Dubyk, and fiddler/vocalist Avery Ballotta) blend elements of bluegrass, blues, roots-rock and vintage swing to create a captivating, high-energy sound. 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 21, 20247:30 PM, Goodwood Museum and Gardens. Tickets are $40. Visit openingnights.fsu.edu .

926 Bar & Grill: Solomon Hill w/ Counterfeit Stereo, Band Of Names, Thunder The Snake on Saturday, March 23, 926 Bar, 926 W. Tharpe St. Doors @ 8 p.m., show @ 9 p.m., $10 over 21, $12 under 21, all ages.

The Sound Bar: Tom Austin & Co. will play at 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 22, at The Sound Bar, 1105 W. Tharpe St. $5 cover. Once Great Estate is on deck from 8-11 p.m. Saturday, March 23. $5 cover. Catch Deja Blue at 8 p.m. Sunday, March 24. $5 cover.

Steamboat Mickee: (Rescheduled!) Mickee Faust Club for the Really Dramatic Arts at Mickee Faust Clubhouse in Railroad Square. Music starts at 7 p.m., show at 8 p.m. March 22-23. Tickets are $20.

Have event coming up? Email details to [email protected].

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The 24 best girls weekend getaways for 2024.

See which amazing locales around the globe are ideal for a girls-only vacation.

The Best Girls Weekend Getaways

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From city to sea, these escapes are perfect for an incredible getaway without the guys.

Whether you want to party it up, get adventurous with some scuba diving or pamper yourselves at a deluxe spa, these fantastic girls trip destinations offer something for every woman in your group. However you choose to spend your vacation, these girls weekend getaways are bound to help you and your best gal pals create lifelong memories.

This city, located in the scenic Sonoran Desert, is a wonderful destination for a memorable girls trip with plenty of options for wellness, art and adventure. Start your day together in Phoenix with a sunrise hot air balloon ride with Hot Air Expeditions, for a bird's-eye view of the sprawling landscape below. Next, explore art and culture at a local museum. The Heard Museum focuses on Indigenous art, and the Phoenix Art Museum displays works from many of the greats, including Monet, Picasso, O'Keeffe and Kahlo. This historic Taliesin West – Frank Lloyd Wright's desert compound, located about 30 miles out of town – is another cool place to wander around in the area.

Don't miss the award-winning cocktail experience at Century Grand. For wellness and pampering, CIVANA Wellness Resort & Spa sits about 35 miles north of Phoenix and offers classes focused on personal growth as well as an award-winning spa. Or, head to the remote, all-inclusive Castle Hot Springs resort about 50 miles north of the city to bathe in the mineral-rich waters and dine on farm-fresh produce grown on property. For a resort stay in nearby Scottsdale, opt for the Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North or the Sanctuary Camelback Mountain .

Victoria, Canada

Courtesy of Fairmont Express

Reconnect with your friends in this charming waterfront city in British Columbia. Stay at the elegant Fairmont Empress hotel, which recently underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation to update its luxury Fairmont Gold experience. Put on your best dress for the iconic afternoon tea with finger sandwiches or meet the girls for the new Sunset Sips offering with cocktails served in teapots.

For some R&R in Victoria , walk to the newly opened HAVN floating spa to enjoy its outdoor hydrotherapy circuit. Leave time to visit the impressive Butchart Gardens with five themed gardens spanning 55 acres. Victoria is also brimming with historical and cultural sites, including Craigdorrach Castle, and you can find plenty of outdoor activities like kayaking and whale watching as well.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Seattle

Newport Beach, California

For the ultimate girls getaway, it doesn't get much better than Newport Beach . This Orange County destination – located about 45 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles – is home to attractions like Corona del Mar State Beach and the Fashion Island shopping center, an upscale open-air complex. When you need a break from shopping, explore the adjacent 1,000-acre Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve.

For a five-star stay with spacious accommodations, check into The Resort at Pelican Hill . The luxury two-, three- or four-bedroom villas are perfect for a sleepover with the girls. Spend your days lounging by one of the largest circular swimming pools in the U.S., hitting balls at one of the two championship golf courses or getting spoiled at the property's spa. For a waterfront stay, you can't beat the Balboa Bay Resort , located on the picturesque Newport Bay, with views of mega-yachts. Have a girls day at the spa, cruise the bay on a Duffy boat, or head to nearby Lido Marina Village for upscale shopping and gourmet dining.

Read: The Top Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Hit the slopes with your besties at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort for world-class skiing and snowboarding in Jackson Hole . After a day on the mountain, head to the iconic Mangy Moose in Teton Village for après-ski cocktails and live music. Hotel Terra and Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offer easy slope access, as well as luxurious spas for relaxing and recovering.

The mountain adventure doesn't stop when the snow melts. During the summer months, you and your gals can go mountain biking at the Bike Park, take the scenic tram to the top for a waffle with a view at Corbet's Cabin and hike down through wildflowers, or explore new climbing routes on the Via Ferrata. You'll have so much fun that you may even want to return with your family in tow.

Read: The Top Ski Resorts in the U.S.

This Southern California destination provides warm weather, beautiful beaches , gourmet dining and upscale shopping. During the day, head out with the girls for kayaking in La Jolla Cove, hiking at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, visiting one of the many museums in Balboa Park, shopping in the Gaslamp Quarter or exploring California's roots at the Old Town San Diego State Historic Park.

There's no shortage of dining options in "America's Finest City." Grab brunch at the lively Bib Gourmand-winning Morning Glory (worth the wait) in Little Italy, go for a sunset dinner cruise with City Experiences and grab after-dinner drinks at the space-inspired Mothership. Cap off your day with a sleepover at the newly opened The Lafayette Hotel and Club, which has been restored to its 1940s glory.

From casino games to shows to grand hotels, Las Vegas offers many ways to spend a weekend away with the girls. To escape the hustle and bustle of the Strip, stay at the Delano Las Vegas , a quieter boutique-style hotel that's part of Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino . Delano guests receive access to all of the larger resort's amenities, including the Mandalay Bay Beach and Shark Reef Aquarium. What's more, the Delano's spa boasts massages, body treatments and facials, and you can also enjoy a seasonal pool with a whimsical submerged chessboard and a lounge with panoramic city views.

For top-notch shopping, head to The Shops at Crystals. Vegas shows are also perfect entertainment for a girls getaway. Catch one of Spiegelworld's adults-only shows, a live performance at the Beverly Theater, a dazzling concert at the new high-tech MSG Sphere or live country music at Ole Red when it opens in early 2024. Weekenders may also enjoy the futuristic AREA15 for immersive art, a secret bar, rides and the surreal worlds of Meow Wolf's Omega Mart.

Palm Springs, California

Warm up in the desert with a weekend in Palm Springs . You and your friends can gossip poolside with a cocktail, enjoy a game of golf or round of tennis, explore the midcentury modern architecture on a self-guided bike tour, or take the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway for beautiful views of the valley below.

For an overnight stay, the Trixie Motel offers a pink party scene created by drag queen Trixie Mattel. You can also find a tranquil escape at the newly opened Azure Sky, with its updated midcentury modern aesthetic, or at Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa in nearby Indian Wells. At night, get dressed up for dinner at the industrial-chic Workshop Kitchen + Bar – one of the city's top restaurants – for contemporary American cuisine.

Lexington, Kentucky

Steal away to the land of all things equine in the rolling green hills of Lexington , where white fences surround picturesque horse farms. Grab your friends and don your race-day best at the Keeneland racecourse, a world-renowned thoroughbred racing destination. Or, go for a horseback ride and stay the night at The Kentucky Castle, a 110-acre estate with European-inspired architecture. Check out the scenery and save time for a bourbon tasting at Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace Distillery.

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Lexington Green offers a free cooked-to-order breakfast daily, plus easy access to all of the city's can't-miss shops – including Joseph-Beth Booksellers in addition to the upscale boutiques in Fayette Mall and The Summit at Fritz Farm.

There's no shortage of things to do in Atlanta . Wander through downtown's Centennial Olympic Park and tour the World of Coca-Cola, where you can sip sodas from around the globe, before taking a ride on the SkyView Atlanta Ferris wheel. Your group can enjoy some barbecue and bourbon at Twin Smokers BBQ or visit the TikTok-famous mozzarella bar Bastone! before turning in for the night.

Head back to your Lifestyle Suite at the Loews Atlanta Hotel , which is conveniently equipped with a Peloton bike should you want to burn off some calories. The property's spa offers a variety of fitness classes, as well as treatments like body scrubs, facials and massages. For the best views of the city, grab drinks at the Bellyard hotel's Drawbar, located in The Interlock. It has easy access to the area's top attractions, including Puttshack's high-tech mini-golf, Mercedes-Benz Stadium and State Farm Arena. Top shopping areas in Atlanta include the posh Buckhead Village District and the expansive Lenox Square mall.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Georgia

Sun, surf and fun are what you'll find in Miami at nearly any time of year. Spend a day with your friends shopping at the outdoor Lincoln Road Mall or Española Way in Miami Beach , or meandering through murals at the Wynwood Walls art installation, one of Miami's top museums . When you're ready for some nightlife, head to South Beach to dance the night away. Park your pals at the Hotel Indigo Miami Brickell in the Financial District to enjoy sweeping views of the Brickell neighborhood, an outdoor pool and cocktails at Mosaico Kitchen & Bar. For Asian cuisine and a clubbing scene, head to Komodo or Gekkō (owned by Bad Bunny and David Grutman).

New York City

Friends can find any activity to strike their fancy in New York City . The FreeStyle Pass helps travelers save money and skip ticket lines at multiple attractions, such as One World Observatory – a top NYC observation deck option – and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Check out the city skyline and the Statue of Liberty during a brunch, dinner or other cruise with City Cruises.

Stay in the heart of bustling Times Square at the Crowne Plaza Times Square Manhattan , enjoy a more leisurely escape at the hip Arlo Williamsburg in Brooklyn or book a room in the vibrant Financial District at The Wall Street Hotel for a chic experience. New York City offers seemingly endless places to dine , from the high-end Clement restaurant at The Peninsula New York to the casual Melt Shop lunch spot.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Brooklyn

Napa Valley, California

Picture yourself and your friends sipping wine amid the rolling green hills of Napa Valley . An easy way to get the lay of the land is on a Getaway Adventures bike tour, which stops at wineries in areas like Calistoga. You can even sign up for a hot air balloon ride with Napa Valley Balloons – on a clear day, you can see all the way to San Francisco .

The centrally located Andaz Napa is a modern and convenient hotel to retire to after dining at one of the valley's top restaurants , such as The Grove at Copia with its farm-to-table fare. Also located in Napa is The Meritage Resort and Spa , offering a luxurious stay with on-site tasting rooms, a six-lane bowling alley and Spa Terra. For a storybook getaway with the girls, stay at the Harvest Inn in St. Helena and dine at Gott's Roadside for casual California fare.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Los Angeles

For the ultimate girls getaway, head to Los Angeles and experience luxury amenities, leading-edge fashion, skyline views and rooftop pools. Check into the historic, boutique Hotel Figueroa – created by women, for women – where you can enjoy a coffin-shaped pool, specialty suites and artwork by local independent female creators. At the five-star Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles , take in some of the best views of the city from the pool on the rooftop, see a concert at LA Live, or shop for clothes and accessories from up-and-coming designers at the nearby LA Fashion District.

Work up a sweat by hiking on Runyon Canyon Trail for views of Hollywood Hills. For a ranch-style getaway with the girls, head to Malibu to stay at the boutique Calamigos Guest Ranch, then dine at the Calamigos Beach Club Restaurant and Lounge, which offers scenic Pacific Ocean vistas just 10 miles from the ranch.

Get your fill of retail therapy along the Magnificent Mile in Chicago . This central thoroughfare, which spans several blocks of Michigan Avenue, is lined with various shops and restaurants and several top hotels. The nearby Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago 's rooms are outfitted with bay windows that overlook the city, and the stylish Silversmith Hotel Chicago Downtown is home to a lively restaurant and lounge.

After a restful night's sleep, stroll through Millennium Park to see the iconic "Bean" sculpture and catch a show in the city's theater district. Of course, no visit would be complete without ordering some deep-dish pizza from a local favorite like Lou Malnati's or Gino's East.

Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

In the foothills of Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains National Park , you'll find amenities such as live entertainment venues, restaurants, shops and spas. The Island in Pigeon Forge entertainment complex features more than 80 shops and mouthwatering local eateries like Paula Deen's Family Kitchen. You'll find the Great Smoky Mountain Wheel, an escape room and the Alcatraz East Crime Museum, which displays iconic artifacts such as Al Capone's rosary.

Also at The Island is the Margaritaville Island Hotel , which has rooms outfitted with fireplaces and private balconies as well as special offers like the "Margarita Package," complete with a frozen concoction maker. Additional Pigeon Forge must-dos include the Dolly Parton's Stampede and Paula Deen's Lumberjack Feud performances, which are both top dinner shows in the area .

Santa Barbara, California

Have a quintessential Southern California vacation in Santa Barbara , which is known for its beaches, Spanish colonial-style buildings and abundant shops along the city's main road, State Street. Relax with your buddies at the Kimpton Canary Hotel , which boasts a rooftop pool, free loaner bicycles, and accommodations equipped with four-poster beds and yoga mats. The property's Finch & Fork restaurant serves seafood and classic American dishes.

When you're ready for drinks, venture to downtown's happening Funk Zone, where you can visit wine-tasting rooms such as Pali Wine Co. as well as distilleries and breweries. There are also great trails to hike in the Santa Ynez Mountains. In the nearby town of Los Olivos, in the heart of Santa Barbara Wine Country, you and the girls can enjoy handcrafted wine, expansive views and cozy amenities at Fess Parker; lodging options here include cabins and a charming inn.

Charleston, South Carolina

Step back in time to 17th-century America while on vacation in Charleston . This charming port city in South Carolina is home to preserved historic mansions, beaches, award-winning restaurants and shops. Many of Charleston's popular attractions, such as the Battery and Charleston City Market, are easy to explore on foot or by bike.

After a busy day of sightseeing, gal pals can relax at Wentworth Mansion , a former home built in the 1800s by wealthy Charleston resident Francis Silas Rodgers. The hotel offers plush digs, a spa inside the property's former stables and the highly regarded Circa 1886 restaurant. For under-the-radar dining, The Wreck offers fresh seafood away from the crowds. Also in Charleston's Historic District, the cozy boutique Emeline hotel boasts suites with memorable touches like record players, plus close proximity to picturesque cobblestone streets and charming boutiques.

Carmel-by-the-Sea, California

It's hard to find a more picturesque destination than Carmel-by-the-Sea , thanks to its misty beaches and homes straight out of a fairy tale. This coastal village, less than 5 miles southwest of Monterey, is an ideal spot to hop on bikes and ride down to the beach and through charming neighborhoods with your gal pals. When you reach downtown, stop to check out the area's shops, restaurants and art galleries. For more beautiful sea views, venture to nearby Point Lobos State Natural Reserve. Carmel offers a range of quaint hotels and inns, including the historic La Playa Carmel and the cottage-style Hotel Carmel.

Read: The Top Dog-Friendly Beaches in the U.S.

Charlotte, North Carolina

The plethora of activities in Charlotte – think: artsy events, heart-pumping pursuits and top-notch shopping – makes this Southern city appealing to all kinds of travelers. Try whitewater rafting at the U.S. National Whitewater Center, where visitors will find the world's largest human-made whitewater river, or enjoy ample shopping opportunties at the high-end SouthPark Mall.

For boutique digs in Charlotte, stay at the Kimpton Tryon Park Hotel . Overlooking an urban park in the city center, the property boasts amenities like complimentary loaner bikes, in-room yoga mats, a yoga deck and an on-site restaurant. Angeline's offers Italian-American cuisine at the hotel, while the rooftop Merchant & Trade serves up bar snacks and cocktails.

If you're looking for an international escape that's close to home, head to Toronto . The city's abundance of distinct neighborhoods – such as Little Italy, Greektown, Chinatown and Little India – makes it a superb spot for foodies . Gourmands can pick up specialty items at Kensington Market. Meanwhile, fashionistas may want to shop for designer clothing at Bloor-Yorkville and music enthusiasts can check out top live music venues like Horseshoe Tavern, The Rex and Massey Hall.

When you need a break from all the city has to offer, take advantage of the Bisha Hotel Toronto 's amenities. Set between the Fashion District and Old Toronto, the hotel features a seasonal rooftop infinity pool, steam rooms, and four bars and restaurants, including an eatery with sweeping city panoramas.

New Orleans

A vacation in this city is bound to include time spent sipping hurricanes on Bourbon Street and munching on beignets at Café du Monde. But if partying isn't your scene, don't fret: New Orleans offers something for everyone. The chic South Market district appeals to avid shoppers, Frenchmen Street boasts incredible live music, and the 18th-century Jackson Square is a must for history buffs. A streetcar ride down St. Charles Avenue, which features gorgeous mansions, is also a fun way to pass the time.

New Orleans is home to a variety of hotels, but for traveler-approved amenities and a superb location, hang your hat at the Loews New Orleans Hotel . This property sits in the New Orleans Art District and houses an indoor pool, a restaurant and a fitness center. Another option is the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel with diverse culinary options, spacious rooms and close proximity to many of New Orleans' top attractions .

Finger Lakes, New York

There are 11 Finger Lakes to explore on a scenic girls trip in New York state. Not only can you enjoy outdoor recreation on and in the lakes, but you'll also find opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing and golf. Maximize your time with your friends while visiting several local vineyards on a wine trail, seeing a show at one of the performing arts centers, zip lining at Bristol Mountain, shopping in Canandaigua, visiting a museum or petting an alpaca at Lazy Acre Alpacas.

A variety of accommodations awaits you in the Finger Lakes , ranging from campgrounds and bed-and-breakfasts to resorts and vacation rentals. For a memorable overnighter, opt for the Miami Motel with its art deco '50s vibe or the luxurious and historic Belhurst Castle . When you're choosing where to eat out, great options include farm-to-table cuisine at Kindred Fare, Roots Cafe or the opulent Diciannove Dieci.

Key West, Florida

Escape to the Florida Keys for a tropical getaway with the girls. The southernmost key, Key West , is known for its abundance of ocean activities, year-round warm weather, lively Duval Street, historic homes and a laid-back vibe. Hop on bikes to search for the best key lime pie, kayak through the mangroves, taste rum at Papa's Pilar Rum Distillery, see the six-toed cats at the Ernest Hemingway house, visit the southernmost point in the continental U.S. and go sailing at sunset. For a night out, have a classic shot of whiskey with a pickle juice chaser at one of the iconic bars on the island, such as Sloppy Joe's or Capt. Tony's Saloon.

For overnight accommodations, explore the top resorts in the Florida Keys . You may want to stay at a beachfront property such as The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton . There's also the budget-friendly, adults-only NYAH Key West with bunk beds rooms that sleep up to six guests.

Read: The Top Florida Keys Beaches

Asheville, North Carolina

Courtesy of The Biltmore Company

For a girls trip focused on outdoor adventure, Asheville is a great choice because of its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Explore the area's top hikes to get your adrenaline pumping. Your group will love getting a taste of life as a Vanderbilt by staying at the extravagant and historic Biltmore Estate. With 8,000 acres to explore here, activities include hiking, biking, fishing, floating on the river, horseback and carriage rides, bird walks, farm tours and more. Guests can stay at the Village Hotel, The Inn or one of the cottages that sleep up to five.

If you'd rather stay in town, The Foundry Hotel Asheville, Curio Collection by Hilton has a modern industrial ambiance with Appalachian cuisine and elegant guest rooms. With the property located in The Block, Asheville's historic Black business district, you'll be within walking distance of the vibrant downtown scene and its multitude of shopping and dining options.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor with a wealth of knowledge when it comes to planning girls trips with her friends. She prefers to plan getaways in places that offer outdoor adventure and five-star spas. Her favorite destinations include Palms Springs, Jackson Hole and British Columbia. Kolberg used her personal experience and research skills to curate this list of the best girls trip ideas.

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Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas

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