Sometimes you need to get out of town. Weekend getaways are the perfect alternative to a big trip because you don't need to use up any of your precious vacation time. We've rounded up a list of some of the best places to spend your long weekend around the country. Grab a friend, plan a road trip and get away from it all for a few days!
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1. Peak's Island, Maine
Considered part of Portland, this popular getaway is around 3 miles from the downtown area. It became a summer destination back when it was known as the "Coney Island of Maine."
2. Stowe, Vermont
Home to The Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum, this small town is a destination for its trails and ski slopes. Not to mention Stowe has the Trapp Family Lodge which is owned by the eldest son of Maria and Baron Georg Johannes von Trapp (for all you "The Sound of Music" fans).
3. Charlemont, Massachusetts
Known as the "Recreation Capital of New England," Charlemont has plenty to do outside including some incredible zip line tours through their lush forests.
4. Block Island, Rhode Island
With 17 miles of shoreline, this is the perfect beach getaway. Rent a bike and explore this tiny island. There's plenty of outdoor activity on the water as well including kayaking and paddleboarding.
5. Chesterfield, New Hampshire
This tiny town features views of the Connecticut River Valley and beautiful forests to explore. The historic Chesterfield Inn is an old farmhouse turned into a beautiful bed and breakfast that would make the best weekend getaway spot.
6. Fire Island, New York
About an hour and a half away from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Fire Island offers 32 miles of shoreline and plenty of charm in downtown Ocean Beach.
7. Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania
With 150 lakes and various historic towns, the Poconos are a popular getaway spot across all the seasons.
8. Milton, Delaware
This town is home to over 200 historic buildings. Make sure to tour the historic district before stopping by the Dogfish Head Brewery or checking out some of the local fishing holes.
9. Cape May, New Jersey
This seaside resort town is known for its luxurious Victorian houses and their lighthouse which is a historic landmark.
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10. Annapolis, Maryland
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Less than an hour from Washington D.C., Annapolis is home to the Naval Academy as well as tons of character and state history. A couple of historical attractions include the Banneker-Douglass Museum and State House, which once served as the nation's capital.
11. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is just one of those cities that everyone needs to visit. It's easy to pop in for a weekend and hit up the famous Bourbon Street and French Quarter. Don't forget to grab a beignet and take a ghost tour; you'll learn a lot about the city's colorful history.
12. Nashville, Tennessee
The country music capital is home to the Grand Ole Opry and historical Bluebird Cafe. They also have a ton of good restaurants and shops to explore.
13. Austin, Texas
Only a few hours from Houston or Dallas, Austin is a fun spot to get away for the weekend. The live music capital always has some great music to listen to and has the best breakfast tacos in the state (or anywhere).
14. Tishomingo State Park, Mississippi
This state park in Tishomingo County is in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It's the perfect choice for camping and exploring the lush trails.
15. Mentone, Alabama
Located atop Lookout Mountain in DeKalb County, this tiny destination is the perfect Southern mountain escape.
16. Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
The 105-mile long Skyline Drive boasts the beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Just 75 miles from Washington D.C., this is a relaxing option to unplug and enjoy nature.
17. Charleston, South Carolina
Known for its bustling harbor, French Quarter and Battery districts, this colorful city is always on recommended travel bucket lists. It's been ranked America's number one small city for a reason.
18. Asheville, North Carolina
With stunning mountain views in western North Carolina, Asheville is becoming a must-visit city. With plenty of breweries and activities to choose from, there's something for everyone.
19. Destin, Florida
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These beautiful blue beaches in the Panhandle offer plenty for everyone. Hit the Destin Harbor Boardwalk and Big Kahuna water park for some family friendly activities.
20. Cumberland Island, Georgia
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This beachside option in southeast Georgia offers plenty of vacation rentals and opportunities to visit their protected beaches and maritime forest. Don't forget to visit The Dungeness Ruins which show the remains of a mansion built by steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie.
21. Omaha, Nebraska
This Midwest town is situated on the Lewis & Clark National Historic Trail and is full of pioneer history. With various museums and The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha will keep you busy all weekend.
22. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Located within the Ozark Mountains, this lakeside retreat is one of the biggest in the Midwest. There are thousands of rental options here as well as plenty of water activities.
23. Deadwood, South Dakota
Known for his gold rush history, this historic town in the Black Hills has plenty of history within its walls. Visit the graves of Wild West icons, Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane at the Mount Moriah Cemetery or choose from one of the many experiential tours before visiting a local winery or brewery.
24. Chicago, Illinois
Not all small towns needed to make this list! Chicago is a great option for anyone in the Midwest looking for a little getaway. They have some of the best Italian food around and even have their own Broadway shows.
25. Door County, Wisconsin
Located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this coastal town is known for its quaint beaches and local parks. Peninsula State Park is home to Nicolet Beach. There's plenty of outdoor activity and scenic attractions to explore.
26. Sedona, Arizona
This desert town outside of Flagstaff is surrounded by stunning red-rock cliffs. From hiking to relaxing spas and bed and breakfasts, Sedona is the perfect place to get away and unwind for the weekend.
27. Santa Barbara, California
This beachside community is considered one of the most beautiful in the state. Recognized for its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings with red-tile roofs, Santa Barbara is full of delicious restaurants, wineries and shopping.
28. Santa Fe, New Mexico
One of the art capitals of the world, Santa Fe is home to dozens of local galleries that you can explore. They also have the "Margarita Trail" that takes you around some of the local restaurants and bars for some of the best Margaritas you've ever tasted.
29. Whidbey Island, Washington
Located just an hour and a half from Seattle, this gem of the Pacific Northwest offers scenic vistas, outdoor adventures, great art and fine dining.
30. Estes Park, Colorado
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This mountain town in Rocky Mountain National Park is where you'll see various native wildlife including Elk and bears. Perfect for hiking in the summer or skiing in the winter, this is the perfect escape. You can even ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway to the summit of Prospect Mountain for some stunning views of the valley.
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