Top 10 Weekend Getaways in the USA: Amazing Escapes for Every Traveler

Introduction

This is the top 10 weekend getaways in the US. After a long week, sometimes a short getaway is in order. However, deciding which destination to visit can be daunting when you only have a weekend to spend. Want to layout on one of the best urban beaches in the world, attend an unforgettable festival, go hiking, hit a casino, or simply experience some of the most iconic tourist sites in the U.S. in just a weekend? We will help you narrow down the top selections you can choose from for that next weekend’s getaway.

From coast to coast, the United States is home to some of the world’s greatest cities, including internationally renowned metropolises. In just a long weekend getaway, you can see so much. Whether you’re looking for big city attractions, small town charm, history, music, or good eats, we’ve got you covered. Now, without further ado, let’s dive right in. 

1. Savannah, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia, the oldest city in the state of Georgia, Savannah, dates back to the state’s colonial era. Today, the city preserves one of the United States’s largest urban historic districts, showcasing uniquely designed town squares laid out by Georgia colonial founder James Oglethorpe. Visitors can explore a plethora of historic attractions throughout the city. Incredible sites include the Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Juliet Gordon Low Historic District, which preserves sites connected to the birthplace of the founder of the Girl Scouts, and lots more. Savannah is not all about historical arts and sciences. Cultural attractions abound.

Take your fill of the delightful Savannah Theater, the Savannah Ballet Theater, and the Savannah Orchestra. Also, the Savannah City Market, which dates back to the 18th century, showcases shopping and dining experiences in restored warehouse buildings. Step back in time with the charming cobblestone streets lined with gorgeous live oak and Spanish moss trees. You also get rides on horse-drawn carriages and spectacular photo opportunities.

2. Asheville, North Carolina

Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville is one of the best options if you want to travel as a group and are divided on whether to visit a city or the great outdoors. Home to an epic craft beer scene, Asheville appeals to city lovers with an incredible Baltimore estate, plenty of street art, and delicious food options. Located next door to the Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this makes this city a fabulous U.S. weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

There are also plenty of easy hikes near Asheville that allow travelers of all skill levels to enjoy the beautiful mountain settings. Often considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States, let’s not forget the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you are one for the outdoors or the city, a drive through the Blue Ridge Parkway is not to be missed, especially if you’re lucky enough to visit in the fall, so you can enjoy the changing colors.

3. Catalina Island, California

Across the country, it’s Catalina Island, California. A weekend getaway to this island, 22 miles or so off the coast via the Catalina Express Ferry, is one fun weekend trip you must add to your bucket list. Biking and walking are the main transport modes here, or you can choose to rent a golf cart for longer drives. Catalina Island, a startling contrast to the mainland, promises more than a whiff of the East Coast hideouts like Nantucket. Your itinerary can start at the quaint main town of Avalon.

Next, drop in at the Blue Water Grill right on the dock to gorge on the seafood that’s barely minutes from the water. Another site to see is the El Ranchero Escondido, a ranch well known for its Arabian horse breeding programs. Although the ponies are gone now, much of the land has been deeded over to vines where Rucksack Vineyards focuses on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Zinfandel.

4. Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado, for a fun weekend trip in the U.S., Denver fits the bill. Sports, shopping, nightlife, and nearby nature are just a few reasons Denver ranks as one of the best places in the U.S. for a weekend getaway. While Denver would undeniably appeal to sports fans and craft beer enthusiasts, there are many more reasons to visit the Mile High City.

The thriving downtown features diverse neighborhoods, magnificent museums, and lovely city parks that can be explored on foot. This city also offers a spectacular show of nature just outside the city limits. The top places to explore are Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks, and the Flatirons in Boulder. Even for a family getaway, Denver is one of the best weekend destinations for family fun. 

5. Glacier National Park, Montana

Glacier National Park, Montana. Glacier National Park in Montana is one of the best places to go for a long weekend for outdoor lovers in the United States. Glacier National Park is a 1,583-square-mile wilderness area in Montana’s Rocky Mountains with glacier-carved peaks and valleys running into the Canadian border. Highlighted by soaring mountains and crystal-clear lakes, this park is stunningly beautiful. While hikers can take to the trails, others don’t even need to get out of their cars to see the beauty of the park.

The scenic mountain road in the Rocky Mountains, dubbed Going to the Sun Road, takes visitors through the heart of the park up to Logan Pass on the Continental Divide. Even if you’re not into hiking, feel free to peruse the boutique shops or to get a spa treatment in the nearby quaint town of Whitefish. After driving through the scenic park, a sip of the locally produced craft beer in Kalispell Old Town won’t go amiss either.

6. Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, Tennessee, with hot chicken, honky tonks, street art, and much more, Nashville is an excellent choice for a fun weekend getaway if you’re looking to spice things up a little. There’s never a shortage of things to do in the Music City at any hour of the day. Country music lovers can catch a show at the Grand Ole Opry, make a pilgrimage to the Ryman Auditorium, or take a stroll through music history at the Country Music Hall of Fame. Nashville also packs a slice of fun for history buffs.

Enjoy visiting the Antebellum Mansions like the Belle Meade Plantation and engage in a street art tour through the streets of The Gulch, 12 South, and East Nashville neighborhoods. And if you prefer the outdoors, relax in Centennial Park or see the beauty of Cheekwood Botanical Gardens. Nashville is also known for its food — from Hattie’s Hot Chicken to the southern specialties served at Husk that you can wash down with some Tennessee whiskey from a local distillery. 

7. Annapolis, Maryland

To the Northeast, we have Annapolis, Maryland. Annapolis, Maryland, with its welcoming waterfront, charming Main Street, and relaxed vibe, combined to make it one of the top weekend getaway spots. There are lots and lots of boutique and cute shops along Main Street and throughout the downtown area. Consider a stop into the Maryland State House to see where George Washington resigned his command of the Continental Army and view his original address.

Also, visit Great Frog’s Winery to taste their Meritage and their other delicious varieties in their barn. Likewise, if the weather is nice, join in on one of the sunset sails on the Schooner Woodwind, as the water is one of the best places to be in Annapolis. 

8. Santa Fe, New Mexico

O’Keefe Museum is proof of this. When it comes to food, it is a city that combines the old school with the new school, producing a burst of local and global flavors. You can also try out the booze in Santa Fe, as this place is allegedly the birthplace of the margarita. Drop in at Maria’s New Mexican Kitchen, which boasts a 60-year legacy and more than 200 varieties on its binder-like menu.

9. Niagara Falls State Park, New York

Niagara Falls State Park, New York. Niagara Falls State Park is located in the city of Niagara Falls in Niagara County, New York, United States. The park, recognized as the oldest state park in the United States, contains the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and a portion of the Horseshoe Falls. With awe-inspiring scenery year-round, thrilling attractions, interactive exhibits, miles of hiking trails, and delectable dining options, this is definitely a family-friendly weekend site.

While Niagara Falls may seem like nothing more than gigantic waterfalls to some people, there is quite a bit to do and to see in the surrounding area. While the falls themselves are a must-visit and sure to take part in, activities range from hiking into the Niagara Gorge to riding the Maid of the Mist boat tour right up next to the rushing waters. Niagara Falls State Park is an adventure-packed experience, even for a weekend.

10. Las Vegas, Nevada

And finally, we have Las Vegas, Nevada. Bursting with tantalizing options for shopping, entertainment, and nightlife, Las Vegas is everything you could want from a cosmopolitan destination. Sin City is one of the top weekend getaways in the United States. thanks to its varied range of exciting attractions. When in this city, be sure to walk through the iconic The Strip, a four-mile stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard lined with fine dining restaurants, casinos, and lavish rooftops. Another must-do in the city is visiting the Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino.

From here, you will be able to spot the Bellagio Casino and Resort and the Big Apple Coaster from up high. Next, head over to the stunning Fire State Park located within a short drive from Sin City. This amazing nature preserve features 2,000-year-old petroglyphs carved into massive red sandstone formations in the heart of the Mojave Desert — unarguably one of the best, if not the best, weekend getaways for outdoor and adventure lovers.