Best weekend trips in the USA
Discover the most exciting destinations in the USA for an unforgettable weekend getaway – from big-city adventures to scenic escapes.
Traveling in a large country like the USA can seem overwhelming, but you have to start somewhere. Why not a weekend trip?
With an extraordinary range of climates, regions, and cultures, it’s not hard to find tempting options for big-city exploration, small-town adventures, and epic road trips. The hardest part? Deciding where to go. That’s why we asked four expert writers from different parts of the USA to share their favorite weekend trips.
Best for families
Hocking Hills in Ohio offers waterfalls, caves, forests, and gorges covered with hemlock trees, perfect for family outings. Small-town hospitality makes everything accessible, including cozy inns and old-fashioned diners. Try tube floating on the Hocking River, zip-lining through the forest, or stargazing at John Glenn Astronomy Park.
Best for couples
Savannah, Georgia, is ideal for romantic trips. Take a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride under the famous oak trees draped with Spanish moss, or visit Forsyth Park to take photos by the iconic fountain. Enjoy dinner at The Grey, where you can sample oxtail pot roast and Dutch Fork pumpkin soup.
Best for food lovers
South End in Charlotte, North Carolina, is packed with local eateries and breweries. Try Asian-inspired dishes at Seoul Food Meat Company or Mexican flavors at Tacos Rick-O. Resident Culture Brewing also serves fantastic breakfast tacos and sweet pastries.
Best for art and culture lovers
Asheville, North Carolina, is perfect for those who love street art. Visit the River Arts District to experience ever-changing murals, art galleries, and interactive glassblowing. Try unique tacos at White Duck Taco.
Best for outdoor families
Gatlinburg, Tennessee, is a fantastic nature escape. Take the SkyLift for a 2.1-mile ride with views over Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or enjoy a day of hiking and picnicking.
Best for nightlife
Downtown Austin, Texas, is known for its lively nightlife. Visit Rainey Street for tropical-inspired cocktails and live music.
Best for beach lovers and nightlife
Miami, Florida, offers a perfect blend of sun, sea, and nightlife. Explore South Beach, the Art Deco District, and Little Havana during the day, and enjoy world-class clubs and bars at night.
Best for rustic romance
The San Juan Islands in Washington State are ideal for a romantic weekend. Experience rare wildlife such as orcas and bald eagles, and enjoy rustic lodges and historic sites.
Best for big-city lovers
San Francisco, California, offers stunning ocean views, top-notch dining, and shopping. Visit the Mission District for cocktails or Union Square for shopping.
Best for history lovers
Astoria, Oregon, is perfect for history enthusiasts. Visit Fort Clatsop and learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition.
Best for camping
Joshua Tree National Park in California is ideal for camping with fewer crowds than Yosemite. Experience the desert’s unique ecosystem and stargazing.
Best for beach and city
Los Angeles, California, offers a mix of beach activities and city life. Visit the Getty Villa, Griffith Park, and Melrose Avenue.
Best for a New England atmosphere
Ogunquit, Maine, is a classic New England destination with a public beach and the dramatic Marginal Way coastal path.
Best for food and cocktails
Providence, Rhode Island, offers innovative food and bar experiences. Try crudo at Oberlin or ice cream sandwiches at Tricycle.
Best for art and relaxation
Washington, Connecticut, is ideal for art lovers with galleries such as KMR Arts and Judy Black Memorial Park.
Best for shopping and charm
Hudson, New York, is perfect for shopping and brunch. Visit Olana for picturesque views and trails.
Best for scenic drives
Route 112 in New Hampshire is one of the most beautiful drives in the Northeast, with waterfalls and views of the White Mountain National Forest.
Best for urban exploration
New York City offers iconic attractions such as Central Park, the Met, and Broadway. Explore the High Line for a unique view of the city.
Best for history and culture
Boston, Massachusetts, blends colonial charm with modern life. Walk the Freedom Trail and visit museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts.
Best for outdoor adventures
Door County, Wisconsin, offers sand dunes, sea caves, and hiking along 300 miles of coastline. Try a traditional fish boil.
Best for a mid-sized city getaway
Kansas City, Missouri, is known for its fountains, jazz, and barbecue. Visit the American Jazz Museum and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.
Best for culture
Chicago, Illinois, offers food, art, and music. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago and try deep-dish pizza.
Best for historic charm
Galena, Illinois, is perfect for romantic trips with vineyards, hot air balloon rides, and historic sites such as Ulysses S. Grant’s home.
Best for outdoor enthusiasts
Denver, Colorado, offers a mix of city life and outdoor adventures with the Rocky Mountains nearby.
Best for history and monuments
Washington, D.C., is filled with iconic attractions such as the Lincoln Memorial and Smithsonian museums.
