Close-to-Home Weekend Getaways

There are occasions when a quick weekend getaway is just what you need to loosen up and unwind. However, picking which destination to travel to can be challenging when you are only going to have a few days available. Following is a list of a number of perfect spots for a weekend trip you will love.

New York City

Getting to the city that never sleeps from almost anywhere is easy by car, rail, or plane. It is ideal even in winter, as there are many indoor attractions such as Broadway shows or museums, while in summer you can visit outdoor places including the High Line and Central Park. Both the beautiful iconic landmark known as the Statue of Liberty and famous Ellis Island can be accessed by ferry.

San Francisco

San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the nation with its legendary Golden Gate Bridge, Victorian architecture dotting the steep hills, interesting and distinctive neighborhoods, cable cars, and lovely weather all year long. Baseball has never been as panoramic as in San Francisco; go to a game at AT&T Park and see the gorgeous views of the stunning San Francisco Bay.

Washington, D.C.

Both history buffs and would be politicians will love Washington, D.C., with its many things to discover on the National Mall such as the inspiring Lincoln Memorial, the impressive Washington Monument, and many others; and most are free of charge. Foodies will love the weekend brunch custom, popular with both residents and visitors alike.

New Orleans

You can't visit all of the Big Easy's major sights in one weekend, but its diverse offerings make it easy to select activities based on your interests. If you are from a cold-weather region and just want to enjoy some fresh air, head over to City Park for some open-air activities; history lovers can check out The National WWII Museum. Foodies (or even non-foodies) will want to breakfast or snack on the typical beignets, then spend some time wandering around the famous and picturesque French Quarter.

Nashville, NC

If you need a weekend of fresh mountain amex advisors air and sunshine followed by delicious artisanal hand-crafted beer from a regional brewery, Nashville, NC is the perfect weekend getaway. For gorgeous jaw-dropping views, check out the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest, or if you would like to be more active, hike a segment of the iconic Appalachian Trail that passes through. After an active day, travelers can return to town to enjoy one of 100-plus local brews.

Chicago

With its distinct and varied neighborhoods, great food scene, historic architecture, and other fun activities, Chicago is a perfect weekend getaway. Temperature-permitting, take a cruise through the city on the Chicago River to see the architectural designs, then take a walk to Millennium Park to see the notable sculpture nicknamed “The Bean” for its unique shape. If you go in the cold winter months, you might prefer to visit the amazing local museums like the Art Institute of Chicago or the Field Museum.

Seattle

In Seattle, be sure to stop in a local café for coffee, as the city is famous for its laid-back coffee scene (it’s home to the original Starbucks); visit the iconic Space Needle; then head over to fun Pike Place Market in the evening for dinner or drinks. You might additionally schedule in a hike in Discovery Park or on nearby Mount St. Helens. Just be sure to take an umbrella and a raincoat – weather in the Emerald City can be rainy.