14 Unforgettable Weekend Getaways Across the U.S.

When life gets hectic, we all need a break from the daily grind. Enter the getaway - a short escape from routine filled with relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both. Whether you crave sandy beaches, lush mountains, or vibrant city vibes, the U.S. offers countless getaway destinations to explore.

In this guide, we’ll highlight 15 must-visit spots perfect for weekend getaways, including Myrtle Beach, Galveston, Las Vegas, Panama City Beach, Orlando, the Berkshires, and more. Pack your bags and prepare to unwind with these quick trips.

What is a Getaway?

A getaway can be any vacation, but many people use the word “getaway” when they’re talking about a quick trip - like a long weekend. Getaways can be anything from a stay at a serene beachside resort to a few days in a charming mountain cabin or a bustling city retreat. The idea is simple - pick a place that feels like a complete break from your normal routine, and let it help you recharge your mind and body.

Why Choose a Weekend Getaway?

Getaways are ideal for anyone seeking:

A quick escape: Getaways allow you to disconnect without burning through a bunch of vacation days, giving you a great experience in a short amount of time.
An adventure with less hassle: Unlike long vacations that require extensive planning, getaways can be spontaneous and stress-free.
Cost-effective travel: Shorter trips mean fewer costs, and many destinations offer affordable options.

With that in mind, let’s dive into some of the best U.S. getaway destinations that promise unforgettable experiences.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

If you’re dreaming of a family-friendly beachside retreat with miles of coastline, Myrtle Beach is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway. The beaches are flat with smooth, white sand, perfect for walking, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. The Atlantic Ocean is generally calmer than the Pacific, so swimming, sailing, or taking a fishing tour are popular activities. There’s also scuba diving, paddleboarding, kayaking, and more.

In addition to water sports and activities, Myrtle Beach is known for its golf courses. There are over 90 courses in the area, many with beautiful ocean views and challenging designs. The Myrtle Beach Boardwalk Entertainment District has excellent shopping and entertainment, including a surf shop, gift stores, a Ferris wheel, and delicious dining options spotlighting global cuisine and fresh seafood.

For families with kids, there are seven Ripley’s attractions in the area, including an aquarium, a mini golf course, and a mirror maze. Get even more ideas about what to do in Myrtle Beach in this post.

There are lots of hotel and resort options in Myrtle Beach, too. Holiday Inn Club Vacations Myrtle Beach Oceanfront has direct beach access, multiple pools, a lazy river, an activities center, and a firepit. Plus, it’s close to many of Myrtle Beach’s best attractions.

Panama City Beach, Florida

Panama City Beach, a gem on the Gulf of Mexico, is the ideal getaway for beach lovers. With 27 miles of white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and endless outdoor activities, it’s a family-friendly destination that’s perfect for a weekend getaway.

There are plenty of ways to fill a few days in Panama City Beach. The beach itself is easy to get to, with almost 100 access spots - many of which offer public parking. Go swimming, snorkeling, beachcombing, and dolphin watching at the gorgeous St. Andrews State Park. Shipwreck Island Waterpark provides over 15 acres of family-friendly fun, including a lazy river, zip line, wave pool, kiddy pool, and multiple slides. The incredibly named Swampy Jack’s Wongo Adventure has go karts, mini golf, bumper cars, a carousel, and much more.

Resorts line the beach, including Panama City Beach Resort. This family-friendly option has a beachfront pool, fitness center, hot tub, and game room, making it the perfect pit-stop between trips to the beach and adventures in town.

Orlando, Florida

Travel to Orlando for a getaway filled with rides, entertainment, and a little bit of magic.

Walt Disney World is incredibly popular, and for good reason. With four different parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) and two water parks (Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon), there’s plenty to do over a long weekend. Universal Studios features thrilling rides, a studio tour, entertaining shows, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

If you (or your wallet) want to take a break from the theme parks, you can walk through the Harry P. Leu Gardens, check out the Orlando Museum of Art, visit the natural springs at Wekiwa, or bike along the West Orange Trail.

Accommodation options are nearly endless, many with great rates or seasonal deals. Orange Lake Resort has a lot to offer families, including a lazy river, mini golf, an Arnold Palmer Signature golf course, sports courts, and multiple onsite restaurants. Orlando Breeze Resort is a cozier option, with fewer guests and great amenities like a mini golf course, outdoor pools, an arcade, and a fitness center.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

For those who crave a more peaceful and nature-focused getaway, the Berkshires in Massachusetts is a great choice. This rural region is known for its rolling hills, vibrant cultural scene, and charming small towns.

See a performance of the Boston Symphony Orchestra or another show at Tanglewood, a renowned music venue. Visit the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA), the Clark Art Institute, or the Norman Rockwell Museum to see beautiful artworks.

There’s plenty to do out in nature, too. Golf on a nearby course, kayak on a tranquil lake, ride on horseback through the woods, or go hiking along one of the area’s many trails. Thrill seekers can find zip lining, whitewater rafting, skiing, and snowshoeing.

The Oak n’ Spruce Resort in the Berkshires is an excellent option for a weekend getaway surrounded by nature. With multiple outdoor pools, a movie theater, a mini golf course, and a fitness center, there’s plenty of entertaining options for everyone in your group.

Savannah, Georgia

For history buffs and those seeking Southern charm, Savannah is a fantastic getaway destination. This coastal city boasts cobblestone streets, grand architecture, and plenty of historic landmarks.

Visit Forsyth Park’s 30 acres of fountains, live oaks, and azalea bushes. Walk through the Historic Landmark District on your own, or take a tour on foot or by bike. If you’re feeling brave, you can catch one of the area’s ghost tours after dark.

Another highly recommended tour is the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, a neo-Gothic Roman Catholic church that you can view when religious services aren’t in session. For shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants, head to Savannah’s Historic River Street.

Sedona, Arizona

For a breathtaking desert escape, Sedona is the ultimate destination. Known for its striking red rock formations and luxurious spa experiences, this getaway is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxation seekers alike.

There are hundreds of hiking trails all around. Popular trails include Devil’s Bridge, Cathedral Rock, Boynton Canyon, and Seven Sacred Pools. Certain hikes will take you to Sedona’s famous energy vortexes, which many believe offer spiritual healing. If you aren’t in the mood for a hike, there are several scenic drives that let you take in the unique beauty of the area from the comfort of your car.

Sedona is also famous for its world-class spas. Many are located in the luxury hotels you can find throughout the area, but there are independent options as well. Services include massages and facials along with more unique offerings like energy and aura readings. Sedona also has a vibrant arts scene, fun shopping, and great food.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is the epitome of Southern charm and makes for a wonderful weekend getaway. Stroll along its historic streets lined with pastel-colored homes, indulge in fresh seafood, and take in the waterfront views.

If you want to see antebellum architecture, visit the Battery, which stretches along the Charleston peninsula. For gorgeous views of the water, visit the 10-acre Charleston Waterfront Park, which features walking paths, benches, fountains, and palmetto trees. History buffs can take a plantation tour or visit several historical sites, including Fort Sumter (where the Civil War began), Rockville Church, and the Nathaniel Russell House.

Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

If you’re looking for a getaway filled with outdoor adventure, Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination.

Want to travel to Lake Tahoe in the summer? Enjoy beautiful hikes with gorgeous views of the lake, surrounding mountains, and colorful wildflowers. Rent a boat, jet ski, paddleboard, or kayak to explore the water. There are several beaches along the shore as well, perfect for relaxing and swimming. For a more adventurous vacation, try wake surfing, wakeboarding, or parasailing. And if you love fishing, Lake Tahoe has trout, bass, catfish, and Kokanee salmon. There are lots of events and concerts throughout the summer, too.

In the winter, you can ski or snowboard while taking in views of the lake. Resorts in the area include Heavenly Mountain Resort, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, and Tahoe Ridge Resort. There are also places to go snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding, snowmobiling, and ice skating. After all that activity, you’ll certainly work up an appetite. Try one of the many waterfront restaurants, or try a new beer at a local brewery.

Newport, Rhode Island

For a getaway with maritime charm and a dose of history, Newport is the place to be. This coastal city is known for its opulent mansions, cliffside walks, and sailing culture.

The Breakers is a can’t-miss destination in Newport. Built by Cornelius Vanderbilt II in the late 1800s, this Renaissance-style mansion features lavish architecture and decor. For breathtaking views of a different kind, take the Cliff Walk, a scenic pathway that offers stunning ocean views while winding along the coast. There are several museums to explore as well, including the U.S. Naval War College Museum and the Newport Car Museum. You can even explore the coast on a picturesque sailboat.

When you get hungry, there are wineries, breweries, and local restaurants all across the city. The seafood is excellent, and the area is particularly famous for its lobster rolls and oysters.

Austin, Texas

Austin is the perfect blend of laid-back Texas charm and a vibrant music scene. Known as the “Live Music Capital of the World,” it’s a hotspot for live performances, great food, and outdoor activities.

Discover live performances any night of the week at venues across the city. There are literally hundreds to choose from, including Moody Amphitheater, Continental Club, Cactus Cafe, Elephant Room, and Mohawk. Beyond the great music scene, you can visit the Texas State Capitol, the Austin Nature & Science Center, or the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. There are lots of parks, too, including Zilker Metropolitan Park, which has multiple attractions, lush green spaces, bike trails, walking trails, and events.

The food in Austin has a great reputation as well, especially the food trucks. Enjoy everything from Vietnamese, Peruvian, and Lebanese dishes to pizza, gourmet hot dogs, and BBQ.

Palm Springs, California

If you’re looking for a chic desert retreat, Palm Springs is a classic destination. Known for its luxury resorts, hot springs, and mid-century modern architecture, it’s the ultimate getaway destination for relaxation and style.

Joshua Tree National Park is an iconic Palm Springs destination. There are about 300 miles of hiking trails, 9 campgrounds, thousands of established rock-climbing routes, and dirt roads for 4x4 driving or mountain biking. If you go at night, you’ll often get a beautiful view of the night sky for stargazing or photography.

For more outdoor fun, check out Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, which is home to many desert animals from around the world. If you’d like something cooler, take the aerial tram to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. There are several great museums in Palm Springs, too, including an air museum and an art museum.

Nashville, Tennessee

Music lovers, rejoice! Nashville is a lively city that offers country tunes and much more. From world-class dining and craft breweries to art galleries and outdoor activities, this city is perfect for a weekend getaway.

The Grand Ole Opry is an iconic place to catch a live country music performance, or walk down Broadway Street for smaller venues, bars, and restaurants—many with live music. The Parthenon is a full-scale replica of the original Parthenon in Greece, located in Centennial Park.

There are a lot of great places to eat in Nashville, too. Hot Chicken was born here, and there are tons of variations and places to get it. You can also find great burgers, BBQ, sports bars, and fine dining restaurants.

Galveston, Texas

Texas may not be the first state you think of for a beach getaway, but Galveston will change your mind. This island city on the Gulf Coast offers a blend of historic charm, sandy beaches, and exciting activities. It’s perfect for a family vacation, a girls’ trip, or a romantic escape.

You could easily spend your entire trip soaking up the sun and enjoying the usually calm, warm waters of the gulf coast. But if you’re feeling like an excursion, Galveston has plenty of attractions to explore. Moody Gardens is a unique option that houses an aquarium, rainforest pyramid, and a discovery museum. Walk the Strand District for local art galleries, shops, and restaurants, or visit Galveston Island State Park, a tranquil spot for hiking, bird-watching, and kayaking.

You have many hotel and resort options, including Galveston Beach Resort and Galveston Seaside Resort. Both have spacious rooms, amenities like volleyball courts and multiple pools, and easy access to Galveston’s many attractions.

Add Weekend Vacations to your Upcoming Travel Plans

Whether you’re craving excitement, relaxation, or history, there’s a getaway waiting for you: from Myrtle Beach and Galveston to Las Vegas and the Berkshires. So why wait? Choose your next escape, pack your bags, and discover the best weekend travel destinations that the U.S. has to offer!