We can all agree that weekend getaways are the best! From blissful sunny days in California to the picturesque mountains in Tennessee, America is home to some of the best summer weekend getaways there are.
It’s been a goal of mine since moving to the United States to try and experience as many beautiful weekend destinations as I possibly can. So far, I’ve managed to tick a few off my list. Don’t miss these great weekend getaway ideas. Check out below the best summer weekend getaways in the USA.
From bustling cities to chilled-out beaches! Don’t miss my all-time favorite summer weekend getaways in the USA.
Palm Springs
California
I recently went to Palm Springs for a summer weekend getaway, and I was blown away by how relaxed and serene it was.
Palm Springs is full of tall lush palm trees, mid-century modern homes, vintage shopping, boutique hotels & chic, colorful restaurants.
Palm Springs is located in the Coachella Valley, which is also home to nine other cities, including Palm Desert, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, La Quinta, Desert Hot Springs, Indian Wells, and Indio – All offering different unique experiences and history.
It’s also home to some of the coolest attractions, such as the Aerial Tramway, Moorten Botanical Gardens, Joshua Tree National Park, Palm Springs Art Museum, and Tahquitz Canyon.
New York City
New York
If you could only experience one city gateway when visiting the USA, let it be New York City! I can’t rave enough about how amazing this stunning city is like no other city I have ever experienced before.
From epic city skylines to experiencing some of the city’s best restaurants, shopping, and entertainment. You could visit New York multiple times and still find new things to see and do.
While you may not be able to see all of New York City in one weekend, you can certainly hit the highlights.
Jump aboard the Staten Island Ferry and see the Statue of Liberty. Enjoy the bright lights at Times Square, people-watch at Grand Central Terminal, or take a nice stroll through Central Park. The list is endless.
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New Orleans
Louisiana
Take a trip down south and experience the rich history and natural beauty that is NOLA. I’ve been to New Orleans twice now and I still find myself going back for more.
New Orleans is a great weekend spot with quite a unique vibe, you won’t want to miss taking in what’s considered a mix of French, Spanish & American culture. Visit many iconic plantations and gardens and enjoy all things jazz, voodoo, and gumbo!
The Great Smoky Mountains
Tennessee
Famous for its country music and all things Dolly Parton! It’s the perfect summer getaway to really enjoy the great outdoors.
Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge are home to some of the best getaway attractions, such as Dollywood Parks & Resorts, Gatlinburg Space Needle, Aerial Tramway, and of course, the many hiking trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
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Savannah
Georgia
Much like NOLA, Savannah Georgia, is full of sweet southern charm. This is one place you definitely need to tick off on your must-visit summer list.
Experience Savannah’s maritime history, stunning architecture & unique local cuisine.
Get your walking shoes ready as Savannah is best explored by foot. You won’t want to miss taking a stroll around Forsyth Park, Monterrey Square & Bonaventure Cemetery.
Orlando
Florida
Orlando, Florida is home to more than a dozen theme parks, including the renowned Disney World Park and Universal Studios Resort.
While Orlando’s theme parks for the most part get all the attention, don’t overlook the surprising amount of other fun activities Orlando has on offer, including its nightlife, beaches, outdoor adventures, shopping, history, and more.
Orlando is one of the world’s most visited summer destinations, attracting more than 60 million visitors each year.
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Miami Beach
Florida
As soon as you arrive over the bridge, you’ll see why Miami is the perfect summer getaway! From wide sandy beaches to its colorful nightlife & architecture.
Visitors are certainly spoilt for choice when it comes to the number of fun things to see & do. You could easily spend all weekend long lounging by the clear turquoise water and soaking in those sun rays.
So grab your swimmers and head to the beach to see the iconic lifeguard towers or cruise down Ocean Drive and admire the many beautiful art deco buildings.
Los Angeles
California
LA’s cultural attractions have everything you need in a summer weekend getaway plus more. I’ve enjoyed many weekends in LA just exploring the unique, trendy shops, eating at delicious restaurants, and strolling along the beaches, and I still feel like I haven’t experienced it all.
A trip to Tinsel Town isn’t complete without a few must-see highlights such as Venice Beach & its lively boardwalk, the Santa Monica Pier, the Hollywood Sign at Griffith Park, Beverly Hills & of course, Disneyland Park.
Los Angeles truly is the entertainment capital of the world. Don’t miss the sunshine and movie magic that is LA.
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San Diego
California
Hello San Diego! From immaculate beaches to street art, delicious food, and wild nightlife San Diego will win you over with its cool easy-going vibe.
San Diego is best known for its warm sunny days year-round, which makes it the best getaway destination no matter what time of year you visit.
So whatever it is that brings you to America’s Finest City, just be sure not to miss these top sights while you are here. Coronado Island, San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, La Jolla Cove & Old Town Market.
Yosemite National Park
California
Visiting Yosemite in a weekend seems kinda impossible. However, you sure can have a taste, so why wait?
Located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite National Park is one of the most visited parks in all of the United States, and it’s not hard to see why.
The park is filled to the brim with fun outdoor activities and natural beauty. Yosemite is best known for its incredible waterfalls, giant sequoia trees & stunning natural beauty.
Some of Yosemite’s top highlights include Half Dome, Glacier Point, Vernal Falls, El Capitan, and Mariposa Grove.
Las Vegas
Nevada
What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas, right? Head to Sin City for a fun weekend trip of glamorous hotels, gambling, around-the-clock pool parties, and a never-ending buffet.
Las Vegas is the hub for all things exotic and glam. It certainly gives off that “go big or go home” kinda vibe, which I love. You also won’t need to look far to find things to do, as this incredible desert oasis has a long list of activities that will keep you entertained all weekend long.
Enjoy the city’s top highlights, which include The Neon Boneyard, Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign, the famous Bellagio Fountains, gondola rides at the Venetian, the dazzling lights along the Las Vegas Strip, and if you have time the iconic Hoover Dam and Grand Canyon, located only 45mins from the city.
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Outer Banks
North Carolina
Where the beaches are quiet, the seafood is great and wild horses run free! A four-day itinerary may be all the time you need to explore and enjoy everything the Outer Banks has on offer.
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a 100-mile stretch of stunning coastline, national parks, and historic landmarks. As of late, the Outer Banks has become a top summer destination spot for families and couples and is regarded as one of the best beach towns along the East Coast.
Stay and explore the many quaint towns, including Corolla, Duck, Kill Devil Hills, Nags Head & Hatteras Island.
Cape Cod
Massachusetts
Another beautiful summer destination you shouldn’t miss is Cape Cod.
Located just an hour away from Boston, this popular beach town is surrounded by beautiful shorelines with rolling dunes, historic lighthouses, family-friendly attractions, and all the fresh seafood you can eat.
Discover & explore Cape Cod and its surrounding islands and towns, including Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket, Chatham, Provincetown, and more.
San Francisco
California
If you’re looking to experience the best food, attractions, and outdoor adventures, then San Francisco is the gateway city for you.
Don’t miss exploring some of San Frans’s iconic highlights, such as the Fisherman’s Pier, the Painted Ladies at Alamo Square, the barking seals at Pier 39, Lombard Street, and of course, the famous Golden Gate Bridge.
With so much to see & do, you may just find yourself booking another weekend getaway!
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Where are some of your favorite summer weekend getaways in the USA? I would love to know. There are so many beautiful places I would still love to visit, such as the Hamptons in New York City or camping in New Hampshire.
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