US Weekend Trips: 17 Incredible Cities For Fantastic Getaways!

How About A U.S. Weekend Getaway?

I feel so lucky to live in the USA! I love that there’s so many different landscapes in our country. We can escape to the mountains, drive to the beach, chill out in the country and live it up in the big cities. The USA offers so many possibilities for what to explore. To me, there’s hardly a reason to explore anywhere else and that’s why I’m focusing on USA travel. Maybe someday when I’ve seen everything I could possibly want to see in the USA, I’ll venture to other lands. For now, this is where I’m at! Today I want to share with you some of my favorite places for weekend getaways in the U.S. These cities are all absolutely perfect for a weekend getaway.

Weekend getaways are fun anywhere you go. It’s just nice to get away from it all and chillax. I love a good road trip to a low-key place, and I’m always up for an outdoor adventure, but I absolutely love the hustle & bustle and all the energy that big cities offer. There’s just something about that big city vibe that’s addicting.

The only downside to big city getaways are their more expensive price tag. You can definitely find ways to save money no matter where you go, even in a big city. And don’t count out the smaller cities for great getaways at a lower price point.

Budget Checks For Big City Weekend Getaways

So if you’re heading to a big city for an awesome weekend getaway, it’s not as easy to go on the cheap but you can still save money and our list has quite a few cities that are less expensive options (but still super fun) for where to go on your weekend getaway.

And, I included recommendations on where to stay in each city. You’ll notice that most often my recommendations are for Marriott or Hyatt properties because I love both and it’s so easy to get free night stays at both! All the Getaway Cities are broken down based on area of the US – Western, Eastern, Southern and Central. Now, onto the Getaways!

Western U.S. Weekend Getaways

San Francisco, California

The city by the bay is a great choice when you’re undecided about what you want your weekend getaway to be.  A world-wind of shopping?  Check.  Going on a wine tour in wine country?  With Napa and Sonoma both close by, this is also do-able.  A nature trip?  With Muir Woods in San Francisco, this is also a check. 

You really can have it all in San Francisco.  When my sister lived near the city, we’d go down to Ghirardelli Square for a tour around – always with a stop at Mrs. Fields by the wharf!! 

A super cool and free thing to do in the city is to check out The Presidio. The Presidio Park is a national park site within the city of San Francisco where you can enjoy all kinds of outdoor recreation and incredible views of the bay and the Golden Gate Bridge.

For a small charge, you can rent a bike and bike all throughout the park and nearby Chrissy Field. We had a blast!

Where to Stay In San Francisco. My Recommendations.

San Francisco is a big city and on the expensive side. But, if you are flexible you can find decent priced hotels. I did a quick look for prices in April and the below have rooms between $150-$800. So the range is wide! Put in different dates to see the price points.

Marriott Fisherman’s Wharf

Grand Hyatt Union Square

Lake Tahoe, California 

If you’re an outdoor lover, get yourself to Lake Tahoe, stat!  So much gorgeous mountain scenery to take in, so many trails to hike.  So much mountain coolness to be had including the freezing cold water of Lake Tahoe.  We were there in mid-July for a quick weekend getaway and the water was cold enough to curl your toes (and I bet other parts).  You can go swimming in Lake Tahoe, but just know that the lake is no joke.  I had an incident while paddle boarding in fact, let me just say to wear a life jacket!!   Winters in Tahoe are also ideal for all snow sports, South Lake Tahoe is super popular for skiers.

Where To Stay In Lake Tahoe. My Recommendation:

Holiday Inn South Lake Tahoe

Las Vegas, Nevada

Lovely Las Vegas is a blast.  You can catch a budget flight and easily fly into Vegas from just about any airport in the country – probably even on a non-stop flight.  Plus rooms are dirt cheap in Vegas, especially during the week so they make it really easy to take a quick getaway to sin city. For a nice place on the Strip with a great location across from the Bellagio, I like the Paris.. My top choice for saving money is to stay downtown!. Throw in a show or two, some people watching at the casinos and pool lounging (it’s a VERY big thing in Vegas!) and you’ve got yourself a weekend!  

Where To Stay In Las Vegas. My Recommendations.

Old School Vegas With Style

Sedona, Arizona

One of my most favorite places on the flippin planet ya’all!  (I’m not southern – where did that come from?!!)  Even though it took me well into my adulthood to discover Sedona, I’m just glad I discovered it – better late than never!  Sedona is a magical place where spirituality runs deep.  Here’s my guide to 1 day in Sedona on a budget.

One of my favorite things to do is to go to the Church of the Red Rocks where you will see an absolutely glorious 360 degree view and where it’s ok to simply do nothing but just “be”.    While on your trip, make sure you check out all the cool unearthly formations to explore like Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock.  A really fun way to see all the rocks is a jeep tour.  We really enjoyed our breakfast at the Coffee Pot.  It’s kind of iconic for a reason and I highly recommend it! 

Where To Stay In Sedona. My Recommendations.

Courtyard By Marriott!

Sugarloaf Lodge

Palm Springs, California

Are you a fan of the desert beauty?  How about retro Mid-century architecture?  Hiking in nature? Palm Springs will have you covered on all fronts.  Known for it’s super cool, hipster vibe, Palm Spring mixes swanky with natural beauty like no other.   You’ll be able to tour fabulous homes with 1960’s inspired architecture as well as explore downtown Palm Springs.  And, stunning Joshua Tree National Park is super close for outdoor adventures.   So many things to do plus fabulous weather make Palm Springs an especially nice winter weekend getaway.  

Where To Stay In Palm Springs. My Recommendations.

Palm Mountain Resort & Spa

Caliente Tropics

Eastern U.S. Weekend Getaways

Asheville, North Carolina

Set in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of NC, this artsy town will make you fall in love.  From it’s quaint downtown full of unique shops and breweries to tons of outdoor activities in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you won’t have enough time for it all.  A must do here is a drive on the ulta-scenic Blue Ridge Parkway that runs through town. 

Another hotspot in Asheville is the lavish Biltmore estate.  Built by the Biltmore family in the 1800’s the mansion is the largest home in the United States with opulence that’s pretty unbelievable.  It’s definitely worth touring – you’ll probably have to pick your jaw up from the floor after your trip.  Finish with a glass of wine in the on-site winery.  You’ll be glad you did!

Where To Stay In Asheville. My Recommendations.

New York City, New York  

I love the Big Apple.  It’s my favorite big city and I can’t wait to go back!!  I tell everyone how much fun I’ve had in NYC.  It’s the perfect trip for a short or long weekend getaway. New York City is IT.  So much to do.  New Yorkers who live there never get bored, so believe me you can’t possibly run out of things to do on a weekend getaway. 

My top picks – stay in Manhattan FOR SURE.  Spend a little more to stay in the heart of the city.  It’s worth it.  Get a hotel with a rooftop bar because you will want to have drinks while looking at the city skyline.  It’s a must do. 

Go to Chinatown.  Eat Chinese at one of the mom & pop places like we did at Joe’s Shanghai.  Ride the subway!  It’s easy and cheap. Go to the Met.  Even if you’re not an art lover.  You will be by the time you leave the Met.  Go to their rooftop patio for killer views.  Go To Central Park, find Strawberry Fields, have a drink at Tavern on the Green. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge at sunset!

It’s easy to grab dinner in a deli, a little neighborhood bodega, or from a pizza joint like iconic Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village. Not fancy, but if you want to save money, saving on food is huge. Los Tacos has good, inexpensive Mexican food. Have lunch or dinner in a deli or a bodega.

Where To Stay In New York City. My Recommendations.

Southern U.S. Weekend Getaways

Key West, Florida 

Let me start by saying flat out, there is nothing like Key West.  Everyone should go at least once; and in all probability that one time will lead to many more!  Key West is a sweet spot in terms of beachy fun, laid back vibe, historical interests and last but certainly not least, LOTS of FUN, FUN, FUN! 

I recommend doing lots of Key West happy hours which seem to start in late afternoon and go WELL into the night – for drink specials and tasty appetizers on the cheap.  There really are fabulous deals for food & drink during happy hour. There’s no reason to havee a proper dinner when you can nosh at one of the many happy hours around town. The Duval Crawl is party time where you’ll hit all the best Key West bars on Duval Street. 

Later, stop at Ricky’s Blue Heaven for delicious cuisine in an alfresco setting.

I recommend taking a tour of President Truman’s beloved Little Whitehouse, and the writer in you will appreciate a look around the famed Hemingway House where Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote for over 10 years.  Speaking of Hemingway, head over to Sloppy Joe’s, Papa’s favorite bar and maybe even try the lookalike contest?!

Make sure you have your camera for all the awesome photo ops available in Key West and make sure you stop at one of the most famous – the Southernmost Point in the United States.  And of course, hit Mallory Square for the fun sunset celebrations!

Where To Stay In Key West. My Recommendations.

Blue Marlin – great location & value

Westwinds – perfect Old Town location

New Orleans, Louisiana 

NOLA will always be a very special place with it’s unique mix of history, ghost stories & sightings; and an out-of-this-world culinary scene.  Did I mention that New Orleans likes parades and festivals?  I challenge you to go to NOLA for a weekend when there ISN’T one or the other taking place.  It’s not gonna happen – and that’s a good thing.  When we went over Halloween a few years ago, the French Quarter was all decked out and ready to party, and the extravagant Halloween parade did not disappoint.  In fact, nothing in New Orleans was a disappointment, rather we can’t wait to go back again for a quick trip. 

The last time I was in NOLA we made our own bread pudding tour. So fun and good!

For sure, you have to go for beignets & coffee at Cafe Du Monde-yes, it’s a touristy thing but do it anyway because it’s cool.  And, a morning coffee/sugar buzz is a beautiful thing! 

In the evening you’ll have your choice of all kinds of fun things to do like touring around The Quarter, exploring the unique above-ground historic cemeteries or riding the street cars for a self guided tour.  Also, if you like history go to the National WWII Museum. You can’t believe all the exhibits. The Presbytere is a must visit museum where you can not only learn about Hurricane Katrina, but also the history of Mardi Gras. Super interesting stuff for the history nerds (from a history nerd!). I highly recommend checking out the Garden District to see the breathtaking French inspired mansions.   

Where To Stay In New Orleans. My recommendations.

French Quarter:

Courtyard by Marriott

Hampton Inn

Savannah, Georgia

On the east coast of Georgia lies the oldest city in Georgia, Savannah.  Well known for its Southern charm, Savannah is a popular spot for a weekend trip because if offers so many options for fun things to do.  Take a spin over to nearby Tybee Island for a great day at the beach in a really cool small town island atmosphere. If you’re into history like me, you’ll love exploring the beautiful historic district – you may want to even stay in the historic district so you’ll be close to all the action.   For a fabulous low country meal, try Mrs. Wilkes for out of this world Southern fried chicken served family style.  

Where To Stay In Savannah. My Recommendations.

Historic District:

Springhill Suites – Marriott

Embassy with Free Breakfast

DelRay Beach, Florida

Just a little North of Ft. Lauderdale lies the sunny seaside town of DelRay Beach.  It’s a fabulous place for a quick weekend getaway. You’ll love DelRay for it’s (obviously) beautiful beaches, for it’s laid back vibe and for it’s love of the arts.  Having explored DelRay numerous times, I particularly recommend heading to Atlantic Ave in downtown DelRay to get a taste for local eateries and niche boutiques.  For beachside dining and fabulous food, check out Caffe Luna Rosa in DelRay.   

Where To Stay In DelRay Beach. My Recommendations.

Residence Inn Beach Front – by ALL the action.

Nashville, Tennessee

In another life I’ll be a 5’2” black haired country singer.  Until then, I’ll visit Nashville, the heart of country music. Even if you’re not a country enthusiast you’ll still have a good time in Nashville.  Do some line dancing at the Wildhorse Saloon.  We had a great time there!  See a show at the Grand Ole Opry and tour the Ryman Theater.  You can even tour the old Music Row stomping grounds of some of the biggest country music icons ev-ah!  Go to the BlueBird Theater and see who’s on stage.  While you’re there, try some fantastic hot chicken at Hattie B’s.

Where To Stay In Nashville. My Recommendations.

Marriott just a short ride away from all the fun & without the huge price tag.

Hyatt – Always love Hyatt.

Central U.S. Weekend Getaways

Branson, Missouri 

Winter or Summer Branson is full of fun.  I absolutely love lake living in the Summertime and we’ve stayed along the shores of nearby Table Rock Lake for many weekend trips. Boating, jet skiing and just chillin on the dock are what it’s about at the lake.  In the later part of the year, around November and December, Branson is not to be missed for their spectacular holiday displays. 

The town goes out all with fabulous light displays including hundreds of decorated trees!  Also, Silver Dollar City amusement park is a blast any time of year and at Christmas, the park is super gorgeous and has a special Christmas themed show. (It’s often voted the #1 amusement park in the country! It’s so cool!)

Speaking of shows, Branson is the midwest entertainment mecca!  They have countless theatres that run up & down the main drag in Branson that have every possible type of show you can imagine from down home corny comedy to dinner variety shows and legends in concert shows, plus many more.  Be sure to check out some of the shows – they’re unique! 

Where To Stay In Branson . My Recommendations.

Still Waters – The Best!

Omaha, Nebraska

The Big O has a LOT of fun things to do! 

While you’re here in Omaha, you have to go to one of the BEST zoos in the WORLD, (that’s right – WORLD) Henry Doorly Zoo.  It’s over 100 acres of lions, tigers and bears along with just about every other animal you can think of, tons of indoor exhibits so you can enjoy even in frosty weather, an IMax movie house, a skyfari ride, a super cool butterfly house and many other world class exhibits that you have to see to believe.

My entertainment life revolves around food & drink first and foremost, so if you’re like me in this regard, start with a trip to The Old Market to explore some of my favorite restaurants and fun pubs like Laka Lona Rum Club, along with other super fun options. 

Another great place to dig into some local cuisine is in the Benson neighborhood.  Try delicious handmade thin crust pizza at Virtuoso Pizzeria or ramen noodles at Ika Ramen (make sure you go downstairs and check out the bar – it’s insane!) 

Where to Stay in Omaha. My Recommendations.

Old Market Residence Inn – Always a Winner!

Hyatt – Also in Old Market. Hyatt is always on point.

Chicago, Illinois 

Chicagoland is a favorite weekend getaway for many a mid-westerner, and for good reason.  It’s easy to pack in a ton of fun in a weekend trip to Chicago.   You can check out a Cubs game at legendary Wrigley Field, shop til you drop on the Magnificent Mile, hit the beach at Lake Michigan or even bike around the lake.  And, that’s just for starters  Chicago has numerous high end restaurants as well as cheap eats and of course world famous pizza – deep dish, anyone?  Go to Uno’s original Chicago location for the real deep dish deal.

Where To Stay In Chicago. My Recommendations.

Fairfield Inn – Great location

Hyatt – Great Choice with Perfect Location In the Theatre District

There’s so many wonderful choices when it comes to weekend getaways in the U.S!

How will you choose? Maybe you’re like me and you’ll put many of these awesome cities on your bucket list for a visit sometime soon!