Best Cities for a Long Weekend When All You Need Is a Micro-Vacation
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Putting together the perfect long weekend getaway is an art form. Your destination should be small enough to tackle in 48 hours, but it also can't require a red-eye flight home. This usually means that traveling internationally to an alpine town isn't in the cards, and neither is a six-hour flight. You want to be spending your long weekend relaxing, hiking, shopping, and generally enjoying your surroundings, not stuck in an airport security line. The United States has many mid-size cities, national parks, and culture-rich towns just hours from your home, ideal for a quick three-day jaunt.
No matter where in the country you live, we're certain there's an undiscovered gem just waiting for you to embark on a long weekend getaway. From the quirky culture and excellent food scene in Austin, Texas, to the rolling hills of Napa Valley, California, there's a long weekend destination on this list for every type of traveler. Packed with renowned museums, Michelin-star restaurants, and some of the best home stores in America, these long weekend getaways are sure to leave you with a too-full suitcase and a wealth of inspiration. Read on for our picks of the 17 best long weekend getaways in the United States.
More travel inspiration:
Seattle, Washington
Live out your full Grey's Anatomy dreams with a long weekend getaway to Seattle. We recommend checking out Pike Place Fish Market, visiting the original Starbucks locations, and taking a ferry boat across the sound.
Where to Stay: The Graduate, Seattle
Catskills, New York
There's nothing like fall in the Catskills, so embrace the changing seasons and get out into nature for a restful long weekend getaway. Take a hike through the sprawling, mountainous terrain and enjoy the fresh air in your lungs. You never have to leave the view behind if you stay at a literal Getaway cabin in the woods.
Where to Stay: Getaway Western Catskills
Boston, Massachusetts
One part history mecca, one part sports hub, and one part art destination, Boston really has something for the entire family. Visit the Northeast's "church" (aka Fenway), and dive into the story of a mysterious art heist at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
Where to Stay: AC Hotel Boston Cambridge
Naples, Florida
A mere two hours from Tampa and four from Miami, Naples is a quaint Floridian town on the Gulf of Mexico that makes for a great long weekend getaway. Our digital editor, Kate McGregor, stayed at the Ritz-Carlton there last fall, and according to her, “The service and amenities were second to none.” If you prefer sports to simply indulging in a beach day, take a shuttle across town to the hotel's second location's golf course.
Where to Stay: The Ritz-Carlton Naples
Hattaras Island, North Carolina
The Outer Banks serves as North Carolina's favorite beach setting for families from all over the country. And now, thanks to the popular Netflix series, it's become a well-deserved tourist attraction. Bike along the small towns to the lighthouse, or spend a day shopping at the Nags Head outlets.
Where to Stay: Edgecamp Pamlico Station
Austin, Texas
Austin is the ideal city for a long weekend getaway. End your days taking in the vibrant music and nightlife scene, and don't forget to purchase a pair of cowboy boots while you're downtown. For F1 fans, plan your trip around the annual race weekend in October.
Where to Stay: Austin Proper Hotel
Willamette Valley, Oregon
While smaller than Northern California's, Oregon has its own thriving wine country. Escape from the city for a long weekend getaway full of relaxing wine tastings, ground tours, and spa treatments at the Black Walnut Inn and Vineyard.
Where to Stay: Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard
Nashville, Tennessee
The home of country music (and bachelorette parties), Nashville has a well-earned boisterous reputation. We recommend staying downtown during your long weekend getaway to be a part of all the action, but quieter neighborhoods like East Nashville and Germantown still offer easy access to all the city has to offer.
Where to Stay: Bobby Hotel Nashville
Savannah, Georgia
Known for its food scene and ghost tours, Savannah is best visited in the early- to mid-spring to avoid the summer humidity and hurricane season. The Spanish moss trees give the entire town a movie set-like feel, and you're almost guaranteed to develop a new passion for seafood during your long weekend getaway.
Where to Stay: Hotel Bardo
Asheville, NC
House Beautiful may be building the next Whole Home in the city, but there are plenty of other reasons to visit. Associate shopping editor Janae McKenzie still dreams about her weekend trip there. “I timed it to a Noah Kahan concert, but between the cute local businesses, great coffee, and beautiful murals. I wanted to move there ASAP.” Don't even get her started on the mountain views.
Where to Stay: The Restoration, Asheville
Newport, Rhode Island
It's no wonder Taylor Swift chose Rhode Island as her beach-town escape (she owns the famous Watch Hill mansion), the state offers the perfect blend of historical charm and laid-back vibes. Further north in Newport, tour the Gilded Age mansions, formerly home to the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and more, for a dose of design envy and inspiration.
Where to Stay: The Chanler at Cliff Walk
Salt Lake City, Utah
The newly announced home to the 2036 Winter Olympics, Salt Lake City is an underrated long weekend getaway destination. Home to a vibrant art scene that includes Ballet West, The Utah Museum of Fine Arts, and the annual Sundance Film Festival, there's plenty to see for all.
Where to Stay: The Grand America
Greenville, South Carolina
Having gone to high school in the downtown area of Greenville, our digital editor Kate McGregor says that a weekend here isn't complete without a meal at Smoke on the River and a wander through the Main Street farmer's market. Walk along the trails in the Reedy River Park for a spot of nature.
Where to Stay: The Westin Poinsett, Greenville
Hudson Valley, New York
A quick trip from New York City or Connecticut, the Hudson Valley region of New York was made for design lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. Wander the picturesque towns to find handmade homewares and antique trinkets, and spend a fall Saturday hiking through the hills.
Where to Stay: The Maker
Napa Valley, California
Ideal for wine enthusiasts, Napa is a great long weekend getaway destination to relax but simultaneously learn more about the process of making some of the best vino in the country. Stay on a vineyard resort for an all-encompassing experience.
Where to Stay: Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection
Charleston, South Carolina
A perfect mix of old and new, Charleston is one of our favorite destinations for design lovers. We're convinced a weekend here is not complete without table linens from Amanda Lineroth and candles from the Candlefish Library.
Where to Stay: The Pinch Charleston
Big Sur, CA
Taylor Swift and model Karlie Kloss both claim that Big Sur is one of the best places to go for a romantic weekend away. And we understand why. A scenic beach town, Big Sur offers plenty of wellness activities including hikes, swimming, and spa treatments for a few days of connecting with your partner.
Where to Stay: Alila Ventana Big Sur
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