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Craving a vacation, but short on paid time off? No worries: you can get your travel fix on a quick US weekend trip! The United States may be vast, but it is also well-connected – and there is no shortage of short US trip ideas. To help you effortlessly plan your end-of-the-work-week vacation escape, we have rounded up the best weekend getaways in the USA!
Where To Go For a Long Weekend in USA?
We have first-hand experience balancing the tiring work week with easy weekend getaways. Having spent years grinding away on 60-plus-hour work weeks and looking forward to Friday afternoon on Monday morning.
To get through the grueling workload, we became pros at planning the best weekend getaways in the US.
Our Friday-to-Sunday 3-day trips took us to destinations across America. From top US cities to lesser-known locales, we discovered many places to go on a mini weekend getaway.
Some of our favorite long US weekend destinations landed us on sandy beaches, atop rugged mountains, in historic towns and amid modern metropolises.
As a bonus, the quick US vacation spots we chose were highlighted by regional cuisine, local craft beer or the area’s best wine.
What Makes the Best US Weekend Getaways?
Before we answer your burning question, Where should I go for a weekend in USA?, let’s chat about what makes good weekend trips.
Limited to just a 3-day trip, you will want to maximize your experience. We are detailing our criteria for what makes the best long weekend getaways destinations in the US.
How To Get To Fun Getaway Trips
When planning the best long weekend trip in US, you need to consider how you will get to your destination. Will you need to fly? How long is the flight? Are there direct flights? Is it possible to drive? How long will it take?
You don’t want to spend an exorbitant amount of time on planes or in cars. The best long weekend trips in US will be relatively easy to get to from your current location.
How To Get Around on USA Weekend Getaways
An often-overlooked consideration for 3-day trips in USA is how you will get around your destination. Is the area walkable? How close are the attractions? Is there public transport? Is it easy to use? Does the destination have Uber/Lyft? Will you need to rent a car?
When you plan a quick getaway for the weekend, make sure there are no surprises in the effort and cost involved in getting around.
What To Do on 3-Day Vacations in USA
Of course, the best weekend vacations in US will offer activities and entertainment that are suitable to your style. What activities does the destination offer? Do you need a ticket or reservation? If so, are there tickets available? We use Viator to find tickets, tours and reviews for the best attractions in the USA.
Furthermore, if you plan to fill your itinerary for fun US weekend trips with outdoor activities, be sure to check the typical weather at your destination before booking your trip.
Affordable Weekend Getaways United States
As you make plans for short vacation trips, you will want to keep your budget in mind. Some of the top weekend getaways in the US can be pricey – especially when considering airfare, accommodations, city transport, activities and eating out over a short period of time.
If you are looking for cheap getaways in the US, be sure to price out your trip before booking anything that is non-refundable.
Budget Weekend Getaways in US
If you are worried about the best getaways in the US costing a bundle, we don’t blame you! Travel costs even for the best mini vacations in the US can add up.
To be honest though, we believe that any destination can be affordable! In fact, we have created a step-by-step guide to help you plan the best cheap weekend getaways in USA – plus, we share our free vacation budget planner. Get it now!
24 BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN THE USA
Alright, so what are the best weekend getaways in the USA? In our roundup, we feature the best cities for a weekend trip in the United States.
The long weekend destinations we feature are perfect for traveling couples, groups of friends and families.
At the end of the list, we offer our insider tips on how to plan the best mini vacation is the US – including packing tips!
Save, Pin or Bookmark our US Weekend Trip Destination Guide to plan your getaway!
#1 New York City, New York
When it comes to the best cities for a long weekend, New York City tops our list! The Big Apple dazzles visitors with iconic sights, incredible attractions and fabulous food. The only problem with choosing NYC as a quick getaway for the weekend is that there are so many things to do!
New York City offers something for everyone – which is why it ranks as one of the best weekend destinations USA. History buffs will be just enthralled by the city as fashionistas. Fans of Art Deco architecture get as excited about NYC as foodies. Although the weather is seasonal, there isn’t a bad time to visit NYC – each season has its perks.
Travelers will find there are endless ways to plan a fun 3-day trip to NYC. Even budget travelers can explore the city on a dime – find all of our tips on how to Visit NYC on a Budget.
First-time visitors on short vacation trips to New York City can spend the weekend seeing the highlights – like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Central Park. Return travelers, who have already checked off their bucket list of must-see sights, can instead plan a weekend of unique sightseeing and neighborhood discovery. Are you planning a weekend trip to NYC for the Holidays? Get all our top tips for Christmas in New York!
Use the advice in our New York Itinerary for planning your quick NYC getaway!
#2 San Francisco, California
San Francisco ticks all the boxes for a fabulous weekend getaway in the US! It is simple to get to, easy to get around without a car, and is packed with an array of entertaining sights that travelers can choose to visit on their trip.
On getaways for the weekend, visitors can take in SF’s iconic sights – like the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39 – and ramble through the streets on a classic cable car. However, the reason we think it is one of the best weekend getaways is that you can see so much of the city by the bay on a short trip!
Even on a 2-day trip, visitors have time to discover San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown, explore Haight-Ashbury and wander through Golden Gate Park. Even better, there is plenty of time to devour some of the best eats. If you happen to have more time, consider a California Coastal Road Trip!
Plan the best short weekend getaways to SF with our San Francisco Weekend Itinerary.
#3 Denver, Colorado
For a fun weekend trip in the US, Denver definitely fits the bill! In fact, when I lived in nearby Boulder, which is less than an hour from the city, we loved spending weekends in Denver. Sports, shopping, nightlife and nearby nature are just a few of the reasons Denver ranks as one of the best places in the US for a weekend getaway.
While Denver, undeniably, appeals to sports fans and craft beer enthusiasts, there are many more reasons to visit the Mile High City. The thriving downtown, which is easy to discover on foot, features diverse neighborhoods, magnificent museums and lovely city parks.
Traveling with family? Denver is one of the best weekend destinations in the US for family fun! The Denver Zoo and Elitch Gardens Amusement Park are right in the heart of the city.
However, what makes Denver one of the great weekend getaways in the US is the spectacular nature just outside the city limits. The top places to explore that are just a mere hour away are Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks and the Flatirons in Boulder.
Use our tips for three-day getaway in our Denver Weekend Itinerary.
#4 Portland, Oregon
Hip and funky, Portland is one of the coolest weekend trips in US! “Stumptown” boasts a relaxed atmosphere, a phenomenal foodie scene and plenty of outdoor space. After my initial visit, Portland (and all of Oregon for that matter) became one of my favorite quick vacation destinations.
Perfect for a casual weekend trip, visitors can settle into the vibe and explore the city on two wheels – just like locals do. Spending time in the central historic Pearl District is a must, but it’s just a place to start! Visitors to Portland will want explore other parts of the city – from the famous rose gardens to the intriguing neighborhoods, like Hawthorne and Division Street. Time permitting, visiting the amazing Multnomah Falls is one of the best weekend vacation ideas in Portland!
For the best 3-day weekend getaways to Portland, travelers should plan where to eat, too. The food in Portland ranges from fabulous food trucks and fancy donuts to 5-star dining – and every bite is amazing.
We wrap our specific tips in our 3-Day Portland Itinerary.
#5 San Diego, California
Mmm. San Diego. Drink it in. San Diego is ideal for beach weekend getaways and summertime fun! The sunny coastal city is a dream for visitors looking for some quality R&R. Easy going and entertaining, San Diego is the quintessential California destination and one of the best places for a long weekend trip.
For many travelers, the beach is the main draw, but downtown SD is a must-see, too. Visitors who can tear themselves away from the sandy shoreline (and those visiting outside of the warm summer season) should spend time in the Gaslamp District, Little Italy and the expansive Balboa Park.
One of the highlights of San Diego weekend trips is iconic Coronado Island, which is fun to visit in all seasons!
Find more of our tips for SD weekend getaways in our San Diego Itinerary.
#6 Boston, Massachusetts
A wicked pissa, Boston gets our vote as one of the best weekend trips in America! Steeped in history, yet vibrant and modern, Boston appeals to an array of travelers.
By day, visitors can tour some of America’s most historic sites, wander through picture-perfect parks and go on a Duck Boat Tour, a bit of a Boston oddity. At night, Boston tourists will want to take a seat at one of the best seafood restaurants, tuck into a legendary tavern or cheer on the Red Sox at a baseball game.
While “Beantown” ranks as one of the top long weekend destinations in the summertime, we personally think it is one of the best fall getaways in US. Boston is absolutely gorgeous decorated in autumn leaves amongst the crisp weather; and it’s also a great time to enjoy the fine museums and cozy taverns.
Use our Boston Weekend Itinerary to help plan your trip to the city!
#7 Seattle, Washington
Anyone looking for the best short vacation in the US should take a look at Seattle. The Emerald City boasts intriguing architecture, cool cafes and an abundance of outdoor space – making Seattle one of the fun weekend getaways in USA!
There are endless ways to plan a weekend trip to Seattle, but the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Waterfront Park are must-sees (and can all easily be visited in a single day). Historic Pioneer Square, the unique Seattle Underground and Bainbridge Island are more top attractions not to be missed.
Experiencing the coffee culture is a highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest, but especially so in Seattle. Not only is the city home of coffee giant Starbucks, but is well-known for it’s many local Seattle coffee roasters, too.
Get more advice in our 3-Day Seattle Itinerary.
#8 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
For a long time, we only thought of Philadelphia as a layover city. However, when we finally ventured out of the airport, we fell in love with Philly – so much so that we now consider it to be one of the best long weekend getaways in the US!
Philadelphia is absolutely packed with fascinating historical sights – from the famous Liberty Bell to the iconic Independence Hall, where the United States Declaration of Independence was signed by the country’s founding fathers.
That said, there is so much more to the City of Brotherly Love than the past! South Philadelphia is filled with eclectic sights, street art murals and, of course, the best Philly Cheesesteaks. Meanwhile, the north side of Philly hosts an array of museums, the famed ‘Rocky steps’ and heaps of craft breweries.
Read more reasons in our Philadelphia Itinerary.
#9 Chicago, Illinois
There is no doubt about it: A weekend in Chicago is one of the cool weekend trips in the US. Soaring skyscrapers, riverboat tours, shopping and spacious parks dotted with monuments and art are top attractions. As if that is not enough, the food scene in Chicago is amazing, as well!
There are many ways to plan a quick weekend getaway to Chicago, but we recommend first-time Windy City visitors get a little taste of everything (literally!). Explore downtown Chicago on foot and by boat, eat the most amazing meals (hello, deep-dish pizza!), and balance out the feasting with long walks on the Lakefront Trail, in Lincoln Park or along the 606 Bloomingdale Trail.
In the summertime, catch a baseball game in Chicago and we bet you will have one of the best weekend getaways in the USA!
For detailed tips use our 3 Days in Chicago Itinerary.
#10 Austin, Texas
With stellar live music, excellent BBQ and Texas-sized sights, Austin easily ranks as one of the best long weekend vacations in the USA. As a bonus, Austin delivers big on outdoor activities, as well!
If you are looking to escape frigid temperatures elsewhere in the States, be assured that Austin is one of the fabulous winter getaways in the US! High temps hover in the 60s throughout the winter, which is significantly warmer than most of the United States during wintertime.
Some Austin visitors could probably spend their entire weekend trip on Sixth Street – Austin’s legendary bar street (and if that is what you want to do, we won’t judge!).
However, we highly recommend spending the days exploring the Texas Capitol building, Lady Bird Lake, the University of Texas Longhorns campus and the incredible Barton Springs. Of course, listening to some live tunes is essential – Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World!
We share specifics for the best quick getaways in our Weekend in Austin Itinerary.
#11 New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of the classic, great long weekend trips in the United States. Perfect for girls weekends, couples’ trips and even family vacations, NOLA welcomes tourists of all kinds.
New Orleans is a feast for the senses – from the buzzing street scenes to the jazz music that is perpetually played by performers. Weekend visitors to the Big Easy should wander through the fabulous French Quarter, dine on divine Southern dishes, step into a spooky cemetery and have a drink on Bourbon Street.
On a well-planned New Orleans weekend getaway, travelers can even plan adventures beyond the city center, taking in the sights in nearby districts or further afield on a swamp boat trip or plantation tour.
Read why NOLA is one of the best short trips in the US: How To Spend 3 Days in New Orleans.
#12 Glacier National Park, Montana
Hands down, Glacier National Park in Montana is one of the best places to go for long weekend in the outdoors. Although it can be a bit tricky to get to depending on where you are coming from, trust us, the Crown of the Continent is worth the effort!
Highlighted by soaring mountains and crystal-clear lakes, Glacier NP is stunningly beautiful. Hikers will take to the incredible and rewarding trails, but you don’t necessarily need to get out of your car to enjoy the beauty. Going To The Sun Road takes visitors through the heart of GNP up to Logan Pass on the Continental Divide.
As one of the best summer weekend getaways in the US, advance planning is essential. Do a little research before your trip to decide which Glacier National Park Hikes you may want to complete. Not into hiking? No problem. After driving through the scenic park, peruse the boutique shops or get a spa treatment in quaint Whitefish – or sip locally produced craft beer in cute Kalispell.
Use our detailed 3-Day Glacier National Park for tips to plan your trip!
#13 Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas has long been touted as one of the best quick weekend getaways in the United States. Developed as a tourist destination since 1931, Sin City’s neon lights have been welcoming weekend visitors for decades.
While Las Vegas ranks as one of the top quick weekend getaways in USA for gambling and partying, there are plenty of other activities in the Entertainment Capital of the World. Adventure attractions, legendary Las Vegas shows, mesmerizing museums and celebrity chef restaurants all aim to please.
Once you have checked off your list of must-see sights in Vegas, leave The Strip behind and go on one of the excellent excursions – like a day trip to the Grand Canyon or the Hoover Dam.
For tips on what to see and where to eat, use our Las Vegas Itinerary Guide for First Timers.
#14 Phoenix, Arizona
Ranking as one of the best long weekend getaways in USA, Phoenix doesn’t disappoint! With a revitalized and vibrant downtown, desert hiking close to the city center, a sprinkle of history and heaps of trendy dining options, the Valley of the Sun is an oasis of fun.
Although we do not recommend visiting the scorching desert city in the summertime, it is a fabulous place to visit in the wintertime. In fact, it’s one of the Best Winter Getaways in the United States!
Top wintertime activities include hiking at Phoenix Mountain Preserve, attending Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Gardens, dining al fresco at hip restaurants (like Postino and The Vig) and sipping local craft beer (check out Four Peaks and Angel’s Trumpet!).
Use our guides to the Best Phoenix Hikes and all the Top Things to do in PHX!
#15 Spokane, Washington
Spokane flies under the radar as far as getaways go, but we are going to let you in on the secret: Spokane is one of the best long weekend trips in the US! The city is casual – almost quaint – but has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.
Outdoor activities abound in Spokane – from Riverfront Park where the beautiful Spokane Falls tumble downstream to the 37-mile Centennial Trail highlighted by art sculptures to the impressive gardens at Manito Park.
Historic enclaves – like the Browne’s Addition Neighborhood and classic Davenport Hotel – tell the story of Spokane’s past. Meanwhile, modern craft breweries and the youthful Gonzaga campus keep Spokane moving forward.
Plan your weekend getaway using our list of Things To Do in Spokane.
#16 Columbus, Ohio
Columbus is often overlooked as a destination, but we think it is one of the best weekend getaways in America. The capital of the Buckeye State has a flair for the arts and thrives on community events – plus, the people are really friendly!
Weekend visitors can discover the many downtown districts (German Village is a must!), explore the numerous Columbus Parks (Franklin Park Conservatory is a gem!) and feast on the city’s best food at North Market. The Short North is the hip place for nightlife – and features heaps of eateries, bars and fun events, like the Gallery Hop.
The best time to visit Cbus is in the summertime – when the festival season is in full swing and the Columbus Clippers minor league baseball team takes the field. Although the weather starts to cool off quickly in the autumn, it is the best time to experience the thrill of the Ohio State Buckeyes football season.
Use our guide to help plan your long weekend trip to Columbus.
#17 Washington DC
As America’s capital, Washington DC regularly makes the list of Best Cities for Weekend Trips USA – and it makes our list for the best short trips in the US, too!
DC offers an incredible array of activities that appeal to a wide range of visitors. Not only is Washington DC a good choice for the best weekend getaways for families, but it is ideal for couples, groups of friends and solo travelers as well.
On weekend trips to DC, travelers have time to experience the essentials of the city – like visiting the monuments and museums on the National Mall, touring the Capitol Building and seeing the White House. Plus, there is plenty of time to visit the unique neighborhoods – like the Wharf, Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter, and Georgetown.
Plan your weekend getaway with our 3-Days in DC Itinerary.
#18 Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is often touted as one of the best girl weekend getaways – and while I can’t argue that fact, I actually think it is an ideal quick trip for all travelers! Savannah exudes Southern charm (it’s nickname is the Hostess City of the South!) with its pleasant squares, time-worn mansions, and eerily beautiful moss-covered trees.
Weekend visitors are warmly welcomed to the city that is best explored on foot and with wonder. History (and some say ghosts) lurk around every corner and savory Southern dishes simmer in restaurant kitchens around the city. Trust us, Savannah cuisine is not to be missed!
Even though Savannah has a small-town vibe, it really comes alive at night. Weekend guests can partake in live music and festive cocktails at the city’s numerous outdoor bars – or keep it cozy in one of Savannah’s secret speakeasys.
Use our quick trip ideas in our Savannah Itinerary to plan your vacation!
#19 Nashville, Tennessee
There is no question about it: Nashville is one of the best weekend getaways in the United States! Nicknamed Music City, Nashvegas and even Smashville, Nashville knows how to show weekend visitors a good time.
Many of the top attractions revolve around the epic country music scene – but visitors don’t need to be country music fans to appreciate the sights and sounds of Nashville. The Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum are top picks for sightseeing, but city sights – like the Capitol Mall State Park – are equally interesting.
That said, two things not to miss in Nashville are the Honkytonk bars on Lower Broadway and the famous Hot Chicken from Hattie B’s.
Plan your best weekend getaways using our 3 Days in Nashville Itinerary.
#20 Santa Barbara, California
Situated on the cool California coastline, Santa Barbara is a classic coastal town that is ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway. In fact, we think Santa Barbara is one of the best weekend vacations in the US for its laid-back ambiance, hip wine district and ample outdoor activities.
On arrival, visitors will want to head straight for West Beach and Stearns Wharf for time in the sun and sand. Later in the afternoon, travelers can take a leisurely stroll up State Street, shopping at the boutique shops and visiting art galleries. However, we highly recommend detouring into the cool Funk Zone to get a taste of local wines from the many Santa Barbara tasting rooms.
While we think Santa Barbara is an ideal weekend vacation on its own, ambitious weekend travelers can tour more of the Cali Coast to nearby destinations – like Malibu, Solvang and Los Angeles.
Get our advice for planning long weekend getaways with our detailed guide to Driving the California Coast.
#21 Cincinnati, Ohio
A classic midwestern metropolis with a penchant for craft beer and sports, Cincinnati, OH is a prime destination for the best weekend trips in the US. In fact, growing up in Columbus, just a short two-hour drive away, Cincy has long been one of my favorite US getaways.
Visiting the fun Over the Rhine district is an absolute must on a trip to Cincinnati. Home to the Queen City’s hottest restaurants and coolest craft breweries, visitors could spend their entire weekend trip in the district eating and drinking…but then they would miss out on everything else Cincy has to offer!
Cincinnati is rife with fabulous and intriguing museums (many of which are free) and the city’s architecture is superb. That said, we actually rank Cincinnati as one of the best weekend vacations in US for the sporting events. The Cincinnati Reds are the beloved hometown baseball team and catching a game is a highlight of a weekend getaway to Cincy in the summer!
Read why Cincy ranks as a top weekend getaway in our article, Things To Do in Cincinnati!
#22 Louisville, Kentucky
With excellent museums, quirky attractions, cool districts and lots of bourbon, it is easy to understand why Louisville, KY ranks as one of the best weekend getaways in the US.
The city’s top attractions to visit on a weekend trip are the famous Louisville Slugger Museum (featuring baseball memorabilia), a repurposed pedestrian bridge (where trekkers can walk to Indiana) and the hip Nulu district (which is the place to go for food and drink).
Of course, a weekend getaway to Louisville would not be complete without sampling some of Derby City’s finest bourbon. Distillery Tours and Tastings abound in Louisville and it marks the official beginning of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Is beer your beverage of choice? There are numerous Louisville Breweries producing tasty local craft beer, as well!
Whether you are looking for cool weekend trips in the US for a guys’ weekend, a relaxing couples’ getaway or a fun family vacation, Louisville fits the bill!
Find out more in our article, Top Things To Do in Louisville.
#23 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
A long way from its gritty Iron City past, Pittsburgh has become quite hip in recent years, which is why we rank it as one of the most fun cities for a weekend trip in USA.
The Burgh is marked by modern museums, historic sights, iconic architecture and an astounding number of beautiful bridges. Better yet, the downtown core is surrounded by casually cool neighborhoods that are a pleasure to explore on foot.
The North Side (along with its quirky attractions) and the revitalized Strip District (packed with fun bars and eateries) are top Pittsburgh districts to explore…and both are within walking distance from the city center.
Toss a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game in the summer into the mix and there is no doubt that you, too, will be raving about how Steel City is one of the most fun weekend trips in the US.
Use our list of Pittsburgh Things To Do to plan your best weekend trip!
#24 Miami, Florida
While Miami has long been a popular destination for snowbirds escaping long and cold winters, the Magic City makes a fantastic spot for weekend trips all year long!
Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, a shopping extravaganza or just some R&R on the beach, Miami has you in mind!
From ritzy South Beach to hip Coconut Grove, Miami’s neighborhoods offer a different vibe for travelers seeking some weekend fun in the sun.
Sports also features heavily as top Miami things to do, with the NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB all fielding professional teams. Additionally, there’s a certain soccer player named Messi attracting a lot of attention over at Inter Miami CF!
How To Plan the Best Weekend Getaways in US
We have highlighted the prime weekend vacation spots in US, but we have a few more tips for how to plan your weekend trip.
Organize your Weekend Getaway USA
While we are all for taking USA weekend trips on a whim, a little research and organization is essential for great weekend trips in the US. Get (and stay) organized for your weekend vacation with our Trip Planning Printables!
Booking Flights for Long Weekend Getaways in US
If flying to your weekend destination is the most convenient option, you will want to score a deal on your tickets. When we buy plane tickets, we always look at Skyscanner first, so that we can compare prices and easily see the cheapest flights.
For more airfare tips, read our guide to Booking the Best Flights.
Where To Stay on Long Weekend Trips in USA
On short trips in the US, we think it is essential to stay in centrally located accommodations. You will want to be in the heart of your destination so that it is easy to reach the must-see sights.
While we usually opt for Airbnb during our travels, for quick weekend trips we actually recommend staying in a hotel. The Airbnb fees can be exorbitant on short stays and coordinating check in and check out can be time consuming. A hotel, on the other hand, will likely have 24 hour check in and you can search for the best hotel prices on Booking.com.
Find more of our tips in our article, Booking the Best Hotels.
What You Will Need to Pack for U.S. Weekend Getaways
Packing your backpack or suitcase for a weekend trip can be a bit tricky. You will want to make sure you bring everything you need…without over-packing.
Use our Packing Hacks or top space-saving tips and find all of our advice on our Packing Page.
We think the lighter the better when it comes to packing. It is best to plan coordinating outfits that can be layered. Also, determine which everyday items are necessary for such a short trip (especially if you are staying in a hotel where amenities are provided).
Looking for somewhere off the beaten path?
Start planning your USA Trip! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information on traveling!
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