travel destinations within 5 hours of me

18 Driveable Vacation Spots and Places To Visit in The US Within 12 Hours For Most Americans

In the past two years, the American Road Trip came roaring back. If you’ve caught the road trip bug and can stay places longer and work remotely, there are a lot of fantastic vacation spots across America to explore.

We’ve gathered places to visit in the U.S. within one day’s drive for more than a majority of people. I’ve confirmed through correspondence with these cities that 50% or more of the U.S. population can drive to these destinations in 12 hours or less.

Driveable Vacation Spots and Places To Visit in the US

West Coasters may be a little bummed to read this list. Still, as most of the American population is gathered on the East Coast and Midwestern cities, destinations in those regions dominate this list of vacation spots and places to visit in the US.

So whether you’re looking for new vacation spots in your area or to go on a longer road trip, I hope this list of places to visit in the U.S. gives you a new idea!

1. Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania

Set in the Pennsylvania countryside, Lehigh Valley , is an affordable and family-friendly destination is within a day’s drive of 73% of the US population.

Only 90-minutes away from the nation’s largest city, New York City, 80 miles north of Philadelphia, and less than a 6-hour drive from most of the Northeast, Indianapolis, and Charlotte, it’s worth taking a look at for your next vacation.

The Lehigh Valley area consists of Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton, and other charming small towns with tons to see and explore.

Opening in mid-May, Dorney Park and its waterpark and Planet Snoopy offer over 100 rides for young ones. In addition, the Crayola Experience in Easton has dozens of hands-on, creative activities, including making and naming your own Crayola crayon to take home.

You can hike, bike, or run on their extensive trail network, including the Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor and the bucket-list Appalachian Trail.

Or enjoy mother nature’s gifts at one of their 30 wineries. Lehigh Valley is considered an American Viticultural Area, a federally designated wine-grape-growing region like Napa Valley, just a lot closer to home.

If you love Williamsburg’s historical experience and centuries-old buildings, this region even more!  These landmarks are original 18th-century buildings from Moravian settlers who moved to Pennsylvania from the Eastern Czech Republic. Book lovers will want to step foot into the Moravian Book shop, the oldest continuously operating bookstore in the world, dating back to 1745.

“The Steelstacks, located in Bethlehem, is one of the best places to spend an evening in the Lehigh Valley and one of the best  things to do in Pennsylvania “, said Melanie from Partners in Fire.

“An old steel mill turned events center, the facility hosts festivals, concerts, outdoor movies, and more all summer. The Steelstacks complex also includes the Artquest Performing Arts Center, food vendors, and a full bar, making it an ideal place to eat, drink, and be merry on those long summer nights.”

With sticker shock gas prices, it’s a bonus that Lehigh Valley is a one-tank trip for those in the Northeast. Further cementing itself as a budget-friendly option, the average daily accommodations rate is $104 a night, which is highly affordable compared to other Northeastern cities.

2. Richmond, Virginia

While you might have thought about ( or already visited Washington, DC,) have you considered going to Richmond, Virginia? RVA, as locals call it, is Virginia’s State Capitol, 100 miles south of Washington DC and filled with just as much historical significance as one of America’s oldest cities. Within a 500-mile radius from half of the U.S. population, there’s a little bit of everything in this centrally located destination.

Adventures might be interested in the Class II and IV rapids in Richmond, one of the only cities to have rapids of this size in an urban setting.  Or for thrills on land, Kings Dominion amusement park has over 60 rides and a brand new roller coaster, Tumbili, debuting in 2022.

Museum-lovers have a lot to choose from in RVA! The free Virginia Museum of Fine Arts has 50,000 works from 6,000 years, is open every day of the year, and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture is reopening on May 14, 2022, after completing a $30 million renovation.

In addition, the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia tells the stories of African American history in Virginia. The Poe Museum, with the most extensive collection of Poe artifacts, is celebrating its 100th Anniversary in 2022 with a year-long schedule of special events.

If you are in town for a short time and want to combine many experiences into one, you can travel around town to see the Mending Walls public mural art project on a self-guided journey or bicycle tour. Or explore the city via The Richmond Beer Trail, sampling ciders, wines, and meaderies from almost 40 local breweries.

3. Fayetteville, West Virginia

Fayetteville has been named “Top 10 Coolest Small Towns in America” by Budget Travel Magazine and “Best River Town” and is now a neighbor to the country’s newest national park – the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve.

Despite being an 8-hour drive from 60% of the U.S. population, the West Virginia way of life is crowd-free. No town, not even Fayetteville, has more than 50,000 people. So if you’re looking to scratch that National Park itch but have no interest in exploring nature along with record-level park crowds, consider all that The Mountain State offers up to vacationers.

New River Gorge National Park & Preserve is 70,000 acres of public land full of rich history and prime for hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and whitewater rafting. The park also encompasses the New River, one of the oldest rivers on the continent, and the world’s third-longest single-span arch bridge spanning 3,030 feet above the Gorge.

If you prefer the all-inclusive type of resort, one of the top six adventure resorts in the country, Adventures on the Gorge, is also found here.  It offers 60 different activities across its 250 acres, a variety of accommodations, restaurants, bars, and amenities like its swimming pool with a stunning overlook of the New River Gorge.

4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

While you might only know Pittsburgh for one of its sports teams or Three Rivers Stadium, ‘The Purg’ is one of those under-the-radar vacation spots despite being a driveable destination for 57% of Americans.

Its Cultural District, located in the heart of Downtown, is home to nine theatres that showcase a world-renowned symphony orchestra, opera, dance, and award-winning plays. Or explore the Andy Warhol Museum, the August Wilson African American Cultural Center, or The Clemente Museum.

This Fall, the Moonshot Museum opens at the headquarters of space robotics company Astrobotic Technology providing visitors with an up-close look at real lunar landers and rovers being built and readied to fly to the Moon.

Despite being a medium-sized city, there’s a lot of nature to take in.  Pittsburgh is home to 165 parks and places to hike, bike, or walk along the city’s trails. Or roll out a blanket and enjoy a leisurely meal at Three Rivers Parks, where the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio rivers meet.

 5. Columbus, Ohio

If you’re looking for an urban destination,  Columbus, Ohio, is now America’s 14th largest city, with more residents than San Francisco, and offers months’ worth of activities. 65% of the U.S. Population ( plus Toronto, Quebec, and Montreal residents) can road trip to Ohio’s largest city in less than 12 hours.

Family-friendly attractions include one of the nation’s best zoos , fun-filled children’s museums, and Franklin Park Conservatory, home to the nation’s top children’s garden. In addition, Columbus has an incredible park system with outstanding hiking and green spaces, including 175 acres of green space in the heart of the city, hundreds of miles of bike/hike and running trails, and one of the world’s only Audubon Centers in the middle of downtown.

Do you have a fashionista in your life but can’t make it to New York City? Due to significant fashion brands headquartered in town, Columbus is a surprising fashion mecca. It’s the third-largest employer of fashion designers, fueling incredible shopping with lower price tags than in expensive cities.

The city’s art scene is unparalleled for a city its size. You’ll find dozens of galleries, major art museums, several massive live performance venues,  groundbreaking offerings such as Shadowbox Live and the Wexner Center for Contemporary Art, and an exciting poetry scene.

As a city where diversity is celebrated and new Americans are warmly welcomed, foodies will love the city’s culinary offerings. Columbus is home to multiple James Beard Award nominees, a recent Top Chef Contender, and the owner of what the New York Times called the best new restaurant in America.

With the second-largest Somali population in the U.S. and one of the country’s most diverse populations overall, in Columbus, visitors can enjoy Tibetan momos, Bangladeshi cuisine, a Pakistani bakery, and one of the best banh mi sandwiches in North America. In addition, dozens of authentic food trucks serve cuisines from Mexico, Central, and South America, and draw long lines.

6. Cincinnati, Ohio

One hundred miles southwest of Columbus is another one of Ohio’s fantastic vacation spots. Cincinnati is called the Gateway to the Midwest due to its central location,  an 11-hour drive for half of all Americans. One of the country’s most affordable places to live, people can have a great vacation in Cincinnati with top attractions and fantastic dining without New York City or San Francisco prices.

The town has a vibrant arts and culture scene as one of only 13 cities in the country with its own ballet, opera, fine art, symphony, theater companies, and museums. In addition, families will love the new Art Climb at the Cincinnati Art Museum, the award-winning Cincinnati Zoo, and the walkable downtown area that’s easy to explore.

Are you looking for the best places to visit for foodies? Well, Cincinnati is another one of the great culinary vacation sports. With James Beard-nominated chefs, the Findlay Market chock full of international cuisine, Oakely Food Hall, and Edward Lee’s new restaurant, you’ll eat amazingly well during your trip to Cincinnati.

Sarah Jessica Parker got her start in The Arts in the city and continues to praise it. The Sex and the City star once said that “Cincinnati, and I really mean this, is a great city.”

7. Butler County, Ohio

If you’re looking for an Ohio destination outside of a city, take a look at Butler County between Cincinnati and Dayton, within one day’s drive for 60% of the U.S. population. Foodies will enjoy the Donut Trail of 13 mom & pop donut shops or Jungle Jim’s International Market, with over 180,000 global items in a 6.5-acre space.

Spend your days exploring Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum with 80 modern sculptures across 300 acres, EnterTrainment Junction, the world’s largest indoor train display, or The Salty Dog Museum’s classic cars and vintage firetrucks.

8. Branson, Missouri

This destination welcomes approximately 9 million visitors annually, partly due to its plethora of attractions and activities and its location in middle America. Known as ‘The Orlando of the Midwest,’ you’ll see it regularly featured on best places to visit in the US lists.

Branson is a one-of-a-kind family vacation destination nestled in the lakeside beauty of the Ozark Mountains and within a 12-hour drive for about 50% of the U.S. population.

With dozens of live performances, Silver Dollar City, one of the best theme parks globally, and a historic downtown district, Branson’s sheer number of family-fun activities in Branson draws people year after year. Their long list of live entertainment includes rock, country, tribute bands to magicians, illusionists, variety, and comedy shows.

Fishing enthusiasts know that Bass Pro Shops was founded in the region and built Branson’s Big Cedar Resort, a beloved and iconic outdoor upscale resort that is a destination in itself. Table Rock Lake, which draws visitors from near and far, thanks to its world-class fishing and water and boating family fun options like canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing.

Branson also has ten golf courses, including five of Missouri’s top 10  and some rated among the best in the United States. Additionally, five golf courses were built in the past several years, catapulting it to the top echelon of vacation spots for golfers in America. Top of The Rock, designed by Jack Nicklaus, is a unique course that’s a must-do for players.

9. St. Louis, Missouri

Equally located from Dallas, Denver, and Washington DC, St. Louis is within 12 hours of over half the US population. St. Louis seemingly has it all and is one of the best places in the U.S. to experience Midwest Americana, a vibrant downtown, award-winning new restaurants, microbreweries, and a rich array of cultural venues all in one destination.

Cross another national park off your list in St. Louis. Home to the iconic Gateway Arch, St. Louis boasts an abundance of free, fun, and family-friendly opportunities to get to know the history of this part of the country. Explore the Gateway Arch National Park and its surrounding grounds, and visit the recently renovated Museum at the Gateway Arch, a free hands-on experience.

Reserve a day in your itinerary for Forest Park, home to many free attractions.  Stop by the St. Louis Zoo, Laumeier Sculpture Park, one of the first and largest sculpture parks, or escape the summer heat in the St. Louis Art Museum, the Missouri History Museum, or the Saint Louis Science Center.

Foodies will enjoy City Foundry, an iconic and historically significant foundry building transformed into St. Louis’ first authentic food hall. Or explore Delmar Loop, a buzzing entertainment and dining hub with an eclectic mix of noodle bars, BBQ restaurants, Korean and Mexican eateries, cocktail lounges, and pubs.

10. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

No wonder Myrtle Beach has long been a go-to destination for generations of Americans. More than half of the country can drive to its 60 miles of beaches and other world-renowned attractions.

Another one of those family vacation spots that is also a golfing mecca, Myrtle Beach , has more than 90 golf courses and 50 mini-golf courses so that you can play a round no matter your age and skill level.

“One of my favorite family golf vacations was a road trip to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, with my dad. We played some unique courses, and the weather in Myrtle Beach was incredible,” said Jeff Fang, a top player and Founder of  Financial Pupil .

Broadway At the Beach is South Carolina’s most visited attraction, packed with entertainment, shopping, restaurants, and attractions. Don’t pass up its oversized gondola Ferris wheel 200 feet tall and WonderWorks filled with 100 hands-on exhibits perfect for those beach-break days.

Surfside Beach, located on the southern end of the Myrtle Beach area, was named the first “Autism-friendly travel destination” in 2016. By teaming up with locally-based Champion Autism Network (CAN) and dozens of community partners, it’s also a welcoming, inclusive, and sensory-friendly beach experience for all families.

There are also some unexpected things to do, like visiting Brookgreen Gardens. Founded in 1931, it’s a National Historic Landmark and listed on the National Register of Historic Places featuring an American sculpture collection and a Lowcountry Zoo.

11. The Carolina Core, North Carolina

This region, consisting of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, & High Point, is at the center of 4 state highways. Explore each city’s distinct personalities and a long list of outdoor activities. Families can enjoy Wet-n-Wild Water Park , obstacle course & ziplining at Safari Nation, The North Carolina Zoo, All a Flutter Butterfly Farm, and Piedmont Environmental Center.

It’s not hard to see why it’s ranked one of the best places in the state for outdoor activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, and horseback riding options in the region’s expansive state parks, local public parks, and outdoor recreation facilities.

12. Fayetteville, North Carolina

Located halfway between New York City and Miami, Florida, on Interstate 95, Fayetteville, North Carolina, is within one day’s drive for 75%  of the United States population. Sports fans flock to the area for annual Spartan races and to enjoy the trails, lakes, tennis, and golf courses.

In addition, you can sample the world’s food without a passport on their International Cuisine Trail, with Hungarian, West African, Turkish, Greek, and Italian Cuisine all within just a few blocks downtown.

13. Hendersonville, North Carolina

About half an hour from Asheville, the second-largest city in the North Carolina mountains has a lot to offer with a lower price tag. Brewery lovers will want to make the trip to visit ‘the Taj Mahal of craft breweries,’ Sierra Nevada Brewery, the largest craft cidery in the U.S., Bold Rock Hard Cider, and other tasting rooms on The Cheers Trail.

Explore the mountains and waterfalls in DuPont State Forest, view four states from Jump Off Rock, and end your day on their award-winning Main Street with extra-wide sidewalks, brick planters, park benches, public art, alfresco dining, galleries, shops, boutiques, and the Appalachian Pinball Museum

14. The Smoky Mountains, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville, Tennessee

The Smoky Mountains National Park and its gateway cities are vacation spots so beloved that most visitors return three times a year! Many believe it’s one of the best places to visit in the US. Its central location draws road-trippers; more than 92% of people travel to this destination by driving, foregoing expensive plane tickets.

Home to the most visited National Park in America, The Great Smoky Mountains, these vacation spots welcome 15 million guests a year to their natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and an almost endless list of fun, family-friendly attractions.

There’s also a wide range of accommodations that average $150 a night in peak season. Depending on your budget, you can book one of 14,500 overnight accommodations from rental homes, hotels, timeshare condos , and even RV campgrounds like the brand-new Margaritaville RV Resort and Lodge.

Pigeon Forge is home to the award-winning Dollywood Amusement park, which is visited more than Disneyland, not to mention a lot more affordable.  Kids and adults of all ages will love to splash year-round at Wilderness at the Smokies indoor/outdoor waterpark resort and the new 50-acre Soaky Mountain Waterpark.

15. Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is not called the Scenic City for nothing. It is home to breathtaking nature with endless outdoor recreation options. From adventurous climbs at Sunset Park to horseback riding at Enterprise South Nature Park or exploring the city on a bicycle, views of the Southeast Tennessee mountains and the Tennessee river are everywhere.

Chattanooga is also the only American city with 1 gigabyte per second of Wi-Fi available to every address, so extending your vacation into a workcation is a breeze.

16. Johnson City, Tennessee

History buffs will enjoy a family-friendly and budget-friendly road trip to Johnson City. Tour significant American Revolutionary War, Civil War, and music history sites. Kids will love exploring the Gray Fossil Site, dating back 5 million years.

Visitors can hike to panoramic mountain views from Buffalo Mountain Park, walk the historic Tweetsie Trail, rent a bike, and head to Tannery Knobs Mountain Bike Park. Additionally, Johnson City’s historic downtown district includes local restaurants, breweries, retail shops, parks, and public art and, in the summer, features live music and large-scale festivals.

17. Indianapolis, Indiana

Another one of America’s central vacation spots, Indianapolis is a regular on ‘the most affordable U.S. destination lists. All of the town’s monuments and memorials are free, and so is its long list of parks, such as 100 Acres: Art and Nature Park at Newfields or the downtown canal walk within White River State Park. Illustrating its historical significance as the Crossroads of America, Indianapolis is second only to Washington D.C. for a total number of monuments and memorials.

While you may know this destination as the home of the iconic Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the Indy 500, it’s also home to the world’s largest children’s museum and its new oversized Dino Exhibit.

Visitors can choose from a wide range of accommodations, including unique stays at Bottleworks Hotel, located inside the world’s former largest Coca-Cola Bottling Factory.  Tiny Urban Escapes, luxury hotel suites made out of shipping containers, is another fun option for those looking to try something besides hotels.

18. Louisville, Kentucky

You might only know this destination as the home of the iconic Kentucky Derby or the birthplace of Bourbon, but it has so much more for vacationers. For example,  it’s also one of the best vacation spots in the U.S. for budget travelers.

Home to a diverse array of museums, restaurants, and experiences, Louisville offers bucket-list-worthy experiences like the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory, the Muhammad Ali Center, Louisville’s urban Bourbon Trail, and the Mega Cavern, the world’s only fully underground zip line tour.

Spend a day exploring the largest municipal urban forest in the country, Jefferson Memorial Forest. This 6,500-acre serene park features 35 miles of hiking trails, nature education programs, horse trails, fishing, and outdoor recreation activities such as camping, canoeing, orienteering, and climbing a 52-foot Alpine Tower.

Leave room in your itinerary to explore and learn about the Ohio River, including the National Landmark Falls of The Ohio.  Located on the Indiana state line, you can see an entire fossil bed on the bluff overlooking the Ohio River.

Or, take a ride on the oldest operating Mississippi-style steamboat, the 100-year-old, The Belle of Louisville. Before dinner, take your chance to walk across the Ohio River via a converted railroad pedestrian bridge.

End your day by enjoying Kentucky Hot Brown Sandwich in the Brown Hotel restaurant , where it was first invented in the 1920s. Wash it down with an Old Fashioned or Mint Julep, too!

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Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live a financially savvy life so they can travel and explore our beautiful world no matter their budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, NYC Metro Area trips and activities, and frugal, yet rich, living at PlannerAtHeart.com.

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Central Virginia , Day & Weekend Trips

12 exciting weekend trips from richmond, va (+ map).

As much as I love Richmond, sometimes you do need an escape from the city and to wake up with different scenery. These are some diverse weekend trips from Richmond VA that you can jaunt off to for a few days!

If you’re traveling to Richmond last minute, you want to ensure you have lodging and tours booked ahead of time! Below are some of our top picks to help you plan!

Where to Stay in Downtown Richmond:

• Luxury:  The Graduate Richmond
• Luxury:  The Jefferson (Richmond’s most iconic hotel – opened in 1985)
• Boutique:  Quirk Hotel
• Mid-range:    The Commonwealth

Best Tours and Experiences in Richmond:

• Arts District food tour in Richmond (top-rated!)
• Tuk-tuk sightseeing tour of Richmond (eco-tour!)
• Church Hill food tour in Richmond
• Segway tour of famous Richmond landmarks
• Downtown RVA walking tour with a guide

🚗  Looking for the best way to get around VA? Click here to check rental car rates for Virginia!

I grew up in Richmond and I love the place. However, I spent most of my weekends playing sports in random cities and towns around the state and even out of state.

This list is a random mix of places – some are very obvious places (like Washington DC ) and some are not so obvious. Some are far away, like Charlotte, and some are close by but are best seen over the course of a few days.

Of course, I would love more recommendations! So, please let me know your favorite weekend getaways from Richmond VA in the comments! Thanks!

Weekend Getaways from Richmond VA – Map

To add this map to your Google Maps account, click the ‘Star’ icon next to the map name. You can then view it on your cell phone or computer by heading to your Google Maps account, click the menu and add it to ‘Your Places’.

Best Weekend Trips from Richmond VA

Below, you will find a list of some of my favorite Richmond weekend trips, including reasons to visit the destination, how long it will take you to get there, and some of the best things to do once there.

1. Cape Charles (Virginia)

Distance: 128 miles Driving Time: 2 hours 6 minutes

One of my favorite places in Virginia is Cape Charles , a quiet Chesapeake Bay town on the Eastern Shore. 

It took me so many years to check the town out but when I finally did, I was pretty blown away.  How does this place remain such a hidden gem!?

Cape Charles has fantastic seafood (stop by Shanty Restaurant), a quiet and clean public beach, and over 500 historic homes in its downtown. You’re also close to Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve and Kiptopeke State Park , two essential places to visit on the Eastern Shore.

You can enjoy the calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay and take in the beautiful scenery of the Eastern Shore by waking up early and taking a boat on the water or going jet-skiing. You can also take a quick day trip to Chincoteague !

Reaching Cape Charles is easy as it is one of the first places you’ll come across after heading over the Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel.

There are fantastic Airbnbs in Cape Charles to consider for an overnight, as well. This truly is one of the best weekend trips from Richmond VA!

2. Charlotte (North Carolina)

Distance: 293 miles Driving Time: 4 hours 13 minutes

Charlotte is the largest city in North Carolina . The city is known for its amazing restaurants (oh how I miss North Carolina BBQ in various cities in NC!), history, and unique attractions.

There are several parks, restaurants, and museums within the city. You can use Charlotte as a base for day trips or you can plant yourself there and explore it without leaving.

You will find many attractions, and one of the most popular ones is the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Another fantastic thing to do in Charlotte, especially if you are traveling with children, is to visit Carowinds, an amusement park.

Some other popular favorites are visiting the US National Whitewater Center, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, Discovery Place Science, Freedom Park, McDowell Nature Preserve, and more! 

Click here to see some of the amazing trails near Charlotte if you’re into hiking!

3. New River Gorge National Park (West Virginia)

Distance: 265 miles Driving Time: 4 hours 8 minutes

The nation’s newest national park is the beautiful New River Gorge National Park & Preserve in West Virginia.

Encompassing over 70,000 acres of land along the New River, this is actually one of my favorite natural areas in the United States and it is famous for its whitewater rafting, cultural and natural history, and many hiking trails.

While it is a bit of a drive from Richmond, it is the ideal weekend getaway if you have a long weekend or get an early start.

Some of the most popular highlights of New River Gorge National Park & Preserve are the New River Gorge Bridge, Sandstone Falls, Fayette Station Road, Grandview, Thurmon, Nuttallburg, and more.

You’re also close to the amazing Babcock State Park … so really, you should just turn this weekend trip into a week trip! There are so many epic destinations in West Virginia to visit on a long weekend from Richmond.

4. George Washington and Jefferson National Forest (VA, KY, WV)

Distance: 177 miles Driving Time: 2 hours 44 minutes

The George Washington and Jefferson National Forest is a great stretch of land that spans across the states of Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky over 1.8 million acres.

There are several riveting activities that visitors can participate in, including hiking and mountain biking.

Several hiking trails are accessible to the general public, including the world-famous Appalachian Trail . This woodland also serves as a track for marathon and trail runners.

Some of the most popular places in the National Forest are the Blue Ridge Parkway (the northern portion winds through there!), Mount Rogers (Virginia’s highest peak), Breaks Interstate Park, Roaring Run Furnace, and the ghost town of Lignite, Virginia.

5. Natural Bridge (Virginia)

Distance: 148 miles Driving Time: 2 hours 15 minutes

Natural Bridge (town) was named after its most famous attraction, the stone arch monument that is by some considered to be one of the seven wonders of the modern world.

This phenomenon is located west of Richmond, in close proximity to George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.

The 215-foot high natural bridge provides a scenic and photo-worthy view, especially at night when multi-colored lights are directed at the surface of the stone, making it even more incredible.

Apart from Natural Bridge State Park , the town boasts other attractions like the historic Rockbridge Inn and Vine Forest, both of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

6. Luray Caverns (Virginia)

Distance: 124 miles Driving Time: 2 hours 18 minutes

At every corner, Luray Caverns dons mineral deposits, usually in the form of stalactites and stalagmites. This is the most famous cavern in Virginia!

One of the most famous attractions in the caverns is a body of water called Spring Lake. The lake casts an illusion with its mirror-like appearance.

The stalactites above reflect in the water, creating a mirror image so real that the stalactites seem like genuine stalagmites to observers.

The cavern is open every day of the week and it is one of the largest complexes in the US. It takes around 45 minutes to walk through and tour.

Another interesting place to visit within Luray Caverns is the Wishing Well , one of the most famous attractions. The wishing well also casts illusions like Spring Lake.

While the lake creates the illusion of a stalagmite, the well plays with the depth perception of the observer. It appears to be three feet deep but it actually is around seven feet deep. Luray Caverns is located just west of the town of Luray, VA.

Looking for what to do after visiting the caverns? Be sure to check out our guide of the best things to do in Luray VA !

7. Winston-Salem (North Carolina)

Distance: 229 miles Driving Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Winston-Salem is an artistic city, famous for its inhabitants’ love of music, especially jazz.

There are various interesting places to visit in the North Carolina city such as Reynolda House Museum of American Art, Kaleideum (Downtown and North – two locations), Korner’s Folly, and so much more!

Nature lovers will love the green spaces of the city such as Paul J Ciener Botanical Garden, the popular Salem Lake Trail, Muddy Creek Greenway, and Tanglewood Park.

Winston-Salem is also famous for its food! Be sure to stop by the Salem Kitchen for their famous cheese straws whenever you’re in town! You will find many amazing things to do in Winston Salem for all types of travelers.

If you’re traveling with your family, you can take your children to the Children’s Museum of Winston-Salem or you can all kick back at the Historic Bethabara Park and enjoy the beautiful scenery with a picnic.

8. Ocean City (Maryland)

Distance: 225 miles Driving Time: 3 hours 53 minutes

Ocean City is a town with many attractions that are perfect for solo travelers or families and it is one of the best places to visit in Maryland .

You can dive into the seaside city’s history at the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum or view the museum’s exhibits that include various artifacts that were recovered from old shipwrecks.

It also has several family-friendly amusement parks and an excellent choice of souvenir shopping (saltwater taffy, anyone?). The Ocean City Boardwalk and Outlets Ocean City are the two most famous shopping areas in this Maryland beach city.

Of course, the most famous attraction is Ocean City Beach but some other popular places are Jolly Roger Amuseument Park, Northside Park, Splash Mountain Water Park, Art League of Ocean City, and more.

This is the perfect place to go jetskiing, play mini-golf, and more! You’ll find many amazing things to do in Ocean City MD no matter what type of traveler you are!

9. Hershey (Pennsylvania)

Distance: 231 miles Driving Time: 3 hours 33 minutes

Hershey, Pennsylvania is one of the most famous (and delicious!) cities in the United States.  And, it is one of the best weekend trips from Richmond… in my opinion.

There is a lot of history in the city from the Hershey Public Library to the Hershey Story Museum.  Hershey Gardens is home to several butterflies, many of which only exist in the United States.

But, to no one’s surprise, the most famous thing that this Pennsylvania city is famous for is Hershey’s Chocolate World! When I visited Hershey, you could actually smell chocolate throughout the city and I still remember that so vividly in my mind!

Of course, many people travel to Hershey to visit the world-famous amusement park, Hersheypark (founded in 1906). There are also many places to go shopping in Hershey, such as the Crossroads Antique Mall, built by Milton Hershey.

There are several things to do in Hershey, making it an excellent choice for a weekend trip!

10. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area (North Carolina)

Distance: 113 miles Driving Time: 1 hour 41 minutes

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area is a somewhat overlooked place for us Richmonders. This North Carolina reservoir actually stretches into the state of Virginia and covers over 50,000 acres.

This is one of the best campgrounds near Richmond and you can head there for a weekend of peace and relaxation with nothing but the wilderness at your feet.

There are hundreds of campsites available, including RV hookups . You will also see several boat ramps to launch from. This is a popular place to go fishing or have a family gathering. 

This is also a fantastic place to visit to enjoy early summer and spring in North Carolina as it is never too crowded!

11. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)

Distance: 92 miles Driving Time: 1 hour 26 minutes

Virginia’s only national park has over 500 miles of hiking trails and is home to the famous Skyline Drive. 

It is truly one of the most spectacular places to visit in Virginia and you will find several waterfalls in Shenandoah that offer some great day hike opportunities.

One of my favorite things to do in Shenandoah National Park is to cruise along Skyline Drive and stop by all of the magnificent viewpoints along the way. There are also many hikes that take you to some of the park’s most breathtaking vistas.

If you’re looking for an easy day hike in Shenandoah under 3 miles (and with amazing views), consider hiking along Hawksbill Trail, Blackrock Trail, Stony Man Trail, or Compton Gap Trail.

12. Washington DC

Distance: 108 miles Driving Time: 1 hour 43 minutes

Probably one of the most obvious weekend getaways from Richmond VA is Washington DC (and for such good reason)! The city has more things to do than just about anywhere I’ve ever visited.

You can visit one of the Smithsonian museums, enjoy the theater, relax at the opera, or just enjoy a stroll throughout the city.  I really love Washington DC in spring !

Some of the other main attractions in Washington DC that make it a perfect weekend trip from Richmond are the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, National WWII Memorial, and more.

If you’re seeking cheaper accommodation, opt for something in Arlington or outside of DC itself.

Do you have any amazing weekend trips from Richmond VA that you recommend taking?

I know we could list so many so I hope that you can offer your input on your favorite weekend getaways from Richmond in the comments! Thanks!

More Richmond Travel Resources

• Best day trips from Richmond
• Best things to do in Richmond
• Hiking trails near Richmond
• Best campgrounds near Richmond
• Richmond’s best BBQ
• Weekend in Richmond itinerary

Megan is a travel blogger and writer with a background in digital marketing. Originally from Richmond, VA, she has lived all around the world (including Germany, Finland, Norway, etc) but her heart always finds its way back to Virginia. This blog is to help encourage travelers to explore the great state of VA… and its wonderful neighbors! Megan has written for or been featured by National Geographic, Forbes, Lonely Planet, Fodor’s Travel, the New York Times, and more. She has visited 45 US states and 100+ countries… and wholeheartedly believes that Brunswick Stew is probably the greatest food to ever exist.

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6 top spots under a 5-hour flight from North America’s West Coast

You may have heard it about North America before: the West Coast is the best coast.

But why? Well, there’s the stunning scenery and great quality of life, but we love it because you can easily travel to unique destinations without spending a huge chunk of time getting there.

Whether you live in the Pacific Northwest or on California’s sunny coast, or maybe you want to combine your trip around the States with a warmer getaway, you can get to completely different spots in under 5 hours. The best part? Less flight time also means more savings, so you can travel wild and free to your heart’s content.

Whether you prefer to spend your days partying it up or soaking up local culture at monumental sights, Mexico has it all. For some beachy fun, featuring cheap cervezas and endless sunshine, head to Cancun or Cabo, where the good times don’t end ‘til bedtime. You can spend your days lazing on the beach, sipping on a fruity drinks (or tequila – we don’t judge) or go on a number of adventures including zip lining, whale watching or sailing.

Flights:  Flights from Vancouver to Cabo is a little over 5 hours and Los Angeles to Mexico City is less than 4 hours. Itinerary: Get around Mexico on our Real Mexico trip , exclusively for 18-29 year old travellers.

Photo by Wild & Away on Unsplash

Looking for paradise? Well, you found it – Hawaii is the spot for dream seekers. Visit Waikiki Beach in Honululu for the ultimate escape, or venture out to the many jungles, canyons, rivers and beaches, to see this land’s natural treasures. We love all the little islands that make up beautiful Hawaii, from Oahu to Maui to Kauai.

Experience Polynesian culture at the Cultural Center or get “lei’d” at a Luau right on the beach in Kuaui. You can also take a night swim with manta rays, if that floats your boat.

Flights:  Flights from Seattle to Honolulu is roughly 5 hours . Itinerary: Scoot around Hawaii’s islands on our 10-day Hawaii Discovery trip.

Feeling inspired?

RELATED: YOUR ULTIMATE HAWAII ISLAND-BY-ISLAND TRAVEL GUIDE

3. Costa Rica

Does the thought of exploring rich forests and rocky volcanoes give you a little thrill? Book flights to Costa Rica immediately. This destination has plenty of extreme and wild adventures to keep you feeling far from bored. You’ll spend your days getting up close and personal with nature, either by hiking or cycling near Arenal Volcano in La Fortuna or zip-lining through a forest in the clouds at Monteverde.

Flights:  Flights from California to Costa Rica take about five hours. Itinerary: Explore the best bits of Costa Rica on our 32-day Epic Mexico to Costa Rica adventure , exclusively for 18-29 year old travellers.

RELATED: WHY TO CONSIDER SOLO TRAVEL IN COSTA RICA (AND WHAT TO EXPECT)

4. California

Admit it, we’re all California dreaming one way or another. If you’re on the west coast of Canada , you can get to the sunshine state in a few short hours. Whether you want to stay in the City of Stars (famously known as Los Angeles), or the Golden City of San Francisco, the state of California has plenty to offer.

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a drive to breathtaking national parks, like Yosemite and Death Valley. In between, much on deliciously fresh food, chat to friendly locals, and camp beneath some of the most epic skies on earth.

Flights:  Flights from Vancouver to Los Angeles or San Francisco is less than 3 hours. Itinerary: Spend a week in the California wilderness (with a little bit of Vegas thrown in) on this epic adventure, exclusive to 18-29 year old travellers.

RELATED: 6 REASONS TO DO A GROUP TOUR IN AMERICA (FROM AN AMERICAN GROUP TOUR SKEPTIC)

5. Guatemala

Ever dreamed of trekking through a rainforest? Fly to Guatemala for a sweet adventure through the lush and historic land. Experience Guatemala’s historic past, visit the ancient Mayan city of Tikal, where you’ll come across iconic pyramid ruins right in the center of the rainforests. One particular structure will steal your breath away, the Tikal Temple, the monumental sight’s dominating structure. Whether you crave some art and history or want to be one with nature, Guatemala has enough to satisfy your curiosity.

Flights:  Flights from Los Angeles to Guatemala is about 4 hours. Itinerary: Check out Guatemala on our Real Central America adventure, for 18-29 year old travellers. Guat are you waiting for?!

RELATED: TO STAY AT HOME? OR TO HOMESTAY IN GUATEMALA?

6. El Salvador

As you take some time exploring and venturing away from the beaches, you’ll come across a few volcanoes (the good, sleepy kind), the Route of the Flowers (a 36-kilometre stretch of road covered in flowers) and some incredibly hospitable locals.

Flights:  Flights from Los Angeles to El Salvador will be around 5 hours. Itinerary: Explore El Sal (and a bunch of other awesome Central American spots) on this incredible 46-day adventure , just for 18-29 year old travellers.

Ready for an adventure with a bunch of people your own age? Check out our range of small group adventures for 18-29 year olds now .

Melissa Ariganello

Always on the hunt for the coolest brunch and coffee spots, Melissa is a travel and lifestyle writer currently based in Vancouver. Having also lived in Montreal, Los Angeles and London, she is a nomadic foodie that has traveled to over 20 countries. Next on her travel bucket list is Brazil, Malta and Iceland.

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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The Best Weekend Getaways In The South

We've found your next couples’ trip, girlfriend trip, or solo adventure with these Southern weekend getaways, many within four hours of home.

Patricia was the assistant food editor at Southern Living and worked with the Southern Living food team from 2006-2022. She contributed to articles about food, gardening, and pets.

Perhaps one of the best aspects of the South is how our region encompasses the beach, desert, mountains, and scenic plains all at once. In just a few hours' drive across states like Alabama or North Carolina, you can wade in the ocean and hike in the hills. That's why it was hard to pick our favorite weekend getaways in the South. From the gorgeous autumn color along the Blue Ridge Parkway to the bustling streets and delicious food of the French Quarter in New Orleans to the palm tree-lined boardwalks of the Low Country, these are our favorite weekend getaways for couples, girlfriend trips , or even solo adventures. No matter where you choose, you'll see the beautiful landscapes and generous people that the South is all about in these weekend getaway destinations that are within a few hours from home.

The Great Smoky Mountains

Old-growth forests give the Great Smoky Mountains a sense of wonder worthy of a fairytale. Footpaths wind through the lush green folds where waterfalls and creeks rush by bus-size rhododendrons. These are our nation's oldest mountains, and they continue to provide fresh experiences with each visit.

Take a car hike. Our favorite drives include the loop road around Cades Cove, the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail out of Gatlinburg, and Balsam Mountain Road off the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Charleston, South Carolina

The Historic District's cobbled streets feel as hospitable as the drawled accents of the shopkeepers in notable Charleston. Craftswomen sell intricate woven sweetgrass baskets at the City Market, and carriages roll past storied restaurants. And, oh, the shopping along King Street!

Palmetto Carriage Works offers free downtown parking for customers. Arrive early and explore the Market.

Orange Beach, Alabama

Sugar-white sands, Gulf breezes, and a bustling coastal village. From amusement park rides, water parks, and lazy rivers to championship golf, world-class fishing, and big-name concerts, Orange Beach blends action with a laid-back style.

Create your own souvenir at "Make Your Own Glass" classes at The Hot Shop at the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach .

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Although it's only a little more than an hour's drive from Washington, D.C., this park gets a fraction of the visitors of other parks. That means you practically have it to yourself. Stretching for more than 100 miles through Virginia, it features gorgeous mountain vistas, winding trails, and tumbling waterfalls.

Of the four campgrounds, we like Loft Mountain best, especially the views from campsites A2-A10 on the west and A34b-g on the east.

Nashville, Tennessee

Though it's the home of country music, Nashville keeps the welcome mat out for new styles and new artists. It's a hotspot for dining and shopping, too, whether you like it fine or countrified.

Music City might be a bastion of "C&W," but some of the best music in town is Americana, which derives from a wide variety of American roots music. Visit americanamusic.org for more information.

Keewaydin Island, Florida

Hidden in plain view, this tropical retreat straddles the Gulf Coast between Naples and Marco Islands. No bridges connect it to the mainland, so you'll need to make like a local and go by boat to spend the day on this secluded beach.

On the first weekend in May, locals from Naples and Marco throw a beach party at Keewaydin, linking their boats around the south end of the island.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

This 469-mile ribbon of asphalt connects the Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park while sticking to the ridgelines. Every turn reveals something special—a split rail fence, an awe-inspiring vista, a stacked-stone bridge.

From the 360-degree, four-state view from Waterrock Knob (milepost 451), you can see the Smokies, the Nantahalas, the Pisgahs, and the Cowee Mountains.

New Orleans, Louisiana

This amazing city is a bundle of contradictions, from the brass of Bourbon Street to the grace of Royal. Once you've experienced the storied history and round-the-clock entertainment of this Creole-flavored party town, you'll never forget it.

For Jazz Fest, if you stay in or near the Quarter, take a taxi but be ready to pay cash. For the return trip, skip the long taxi lines and catch the bus. (Visit  norta.com  for details.)

Georgia Coast Road Trip

Scenic Highway 17 delivers three picture-postcard destinations across coastal Georgia—iconic Savannah and St. Simons Island, as well as a lovely, lesser-known find, historic Darien.

You'll find one of Savannah's most affordable dinners in the basement of one of its finest restaurants. Make a meal of the appetizers at the tavern, located downstairs at The Olde Pink House Restaurant .

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio's distinctively Spanish accent makes it a family getaway like no other. And while River Walk lodging can be pricey, the rest of your trip will be easy on the budget.

Buy a water taxi ticket for 24 hours of unlimited on/off privileges at stops running the length of the River Walk.

Blowing Rock, North Carolina

Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, charming Blowing Rock delivers for adventure seekers, shoppers, and those looking for a restful stay. The downtown is chock-full of shops, galleries, award-winning restaurants, and picture-perfect spots. Head to the Blowing Rock for breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Hike the carriage trails at Moses H. Cone Memorial Park and check out the art on display at the Southern Highlands Craft Guild, housed in Cone’s former mansion.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

You’ll find a little bit of everything in this Tennessee River city. Explore the river by kayak, take in a show at the Tivoli Theater, and bike across the Walnut Street Bridge to the shops and restaurants in the North Shore neighborhood.

The Tennessee Aquarium located along the riverfront traces the path of water from the mountains to the sea. Learn about animals native to the Southeast.

Louisville, Kentucky

This Southern city may be home to the Kentucky Derby, but it has even more to offer than its legendary track. Taste your way through Louisville’s food scene, or follow the bourbon trail. There’s something for every taste.

Baseball fans will want to see the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory . Look for original bats for the greatest players in the bat vault.

Dahlonega, Georgia

Get away to festive Dahlonega, Georgia , to find joy during the holiday season. Decked in lights, the small Georgia town celebrates Christmas for a full month. Visit the town square, shop, and sip local wines.

Book a room right in the town square so you don’t have to walk far to get in on the action in this Hallmark town.

Oxford, Mississippi

Head to this college town for game day and tailgate at The Grove. Or head to Oxford outside of football season to take in its charm, catch live music at Lyric Oxford, and visit the shops and restaurants in the square.

For a true escape, head to Holly Springs National Forest for hikes and lakeside views.

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23 Epic Weekend Getaways from San Diego (Fun Mini Road Trips!)

Looking for cool weekend getaways from San Diego? You certainly won’t want for choice!

San Diego may be located at the southern end of California, but it is within driving distance of a variety of fun weekend road trip destinations.

From idyllic mountain resorts to charming wine country and laid-back beach towns to lively cities, we’ve rounded up the best San Diego weekend getaways.

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Many of these exciting destinations are within the Golden State, but a few San Diego weekend trips will take you into neighboring states, or even across the international border!

You’ll want to do some of the longer road trips on long weekends. We’ve indicated approximate driving times and distances, but based on your exact location and the time you travel, driving times may vary wildly, so plan accordingly.

Excited? Let’s get started on discovering the best road trip ideas for weekend getaways from San Diego!

TABLE OF CONTENTS Weekend Getaways from San Diego to Other Cities Outdoors-Focused San Diego Weekend Getaways Weekend Road Trips from San Diego to Small Mountain Towns Wine Country Weekend Getaways from San Diego Weekend Trips from San Diego to Cool Coastal Towns Other Weekend Getaways from San Diego Map of Weekend Getaways from San Diego

Weekend getaways from san diego to other cities, 1. santa monica.

Why go : Santa Monica is quintessential SoCal and makes for a super fun getaway from San Diego. With a sandy beach that goes on forever, and lots of sunny days, Santa Monica makes it easy to get out and enjoy the ocean breezes.

Top things to do : Go beachcombing, kayaking, surfing, or swimming. Check out the Original Muscle Beach, where fitness fanatics perform acrobatic moves.

Bike the scenic 22-mile paved Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which starts in Santa Monica and ends at Torrance County Beach.

Enjoy the Venice Beach boardwalk, where you can watch the street performers. Walk Palisades Park in the evening for gorgeous water views and stay for a colorful west coast sunset. Snap a photo of the famous Ferris wheel after dark.

Equally fun to explore are Santa Monica’s farmers markets, bursting with fresh fruit, flowers, and goodies to eat.

Want a culture fix? Head to Bergamot, the old train station that now houses nearly three dozen galleries. Shoppers can browse brands and boutiques at Third Street Promenade or Montana Avenue.

And there’s a lively night scene in Santa Monica as well, with rooftop bars overlooking the ocean.

Where to stay

Vacation Rental : Located in a historic district and painstakingly renovated, this charming beach cottage features two bedrooms and one bath, as well as a full kitchen. It is walking distance to the beach, shopping, and dining! Book a stay here !

Hotel : The Santa Monica Proper Hotel is located a mile from the Santa Monica Pier. Rooms are bright and well-appointed, and some rooms have balconies or garden terraces. The hotel will loan you e-bikes during your stay! Book a stay here !

Driving distance and time

San Diego to Santa Monica: 134 miles, about 2 hours

2. Santa Barbara

Why go : Santa Barbara is stunning. With its red Mediterranean rooftops and its beautiful beaches, Santa Barbara is that perfect vacation spot, whether you are planning a romantic couples getaway, a solo jaunt, or a fun family trip.

The weather is wonderful year round too!

Top things to do : Santa Barbara has something for everyone. If you enjoy museums and gardens, you will want to visit MOXI, the incredibly cool interactive museum, and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, which focuses on native plants and has a wildflower meadow that looks stunning in the spring.

Enjoy historical sites? Santa Barbara’s mission is one of the prettiest in the state. And El Presidio, the old fort, is a fascinating visit. For both history and views, visit the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. The views from its Clock Tower are made for Instagram!

Santa Barbara’s harbor is beautiful, and you can go on a kayak trip from the harbor. Take a bike ride alongside East Beach, or take in the sunset at Butterfly Beach.

And spend evenings in the lively walkable downtown, where you can browse the shops and galleries, go wine tasting in the Funk Zone, and eat at famed restaurants.

Any way you choose to spend your weekend in Santa Barbara , you will have a wonderful getaway!

Vacation Rental : This two-bedroom, one bath condo is located at West Beach, just steps from the sand, walking distance to the harbor, Stearns Wharf, and the Funk Zone. The unit features a deck, with outdoor seating, overlooking a garden. Interiors are bright and well appointed. Book a stay here !

Hotel : The Santa Barbara Inn is located across the street from East Beach. The location is convenient to downtown as well. The hotel features Spanish architecture and a gorgeous outside sitting area and pool. Rooms are elegantly furnished. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Santa Barbara: 218 miles, about 3 hours and 20 minutes

Why go : The gracious city of Pasadena makes for a delightful weekend getaway from San Diego.

Downtown Pasadena is lively and walkable, with lots of eateries and cafes, and browse-worthy stores. In the evenings, watching street performers amps up the fun.

Top things to do : The Huntington , in nearby San Marino, is worth a full day of your weekend trip. The complex is home to over a dozen themed gardens spread over 120 acres.

Stroll the extensive Desert Garden, admire the drum bridge in the Japanese Garden, smell the roses in the Rose Garden, and enjoy the large lake in the Chinese Garden.

The Huntington also boasts a fabulous art collection with paintings, sculptures, and china, as well as rare manuscripts including a Gutenberg Bible. The gardens make for a fabulous day outdoors.

Architecture buffs will enjoy touring Pasadena. The domed City Hall, with its center fountain, is gorgeous, but also don’t miss the Wrigley Mansion, Gamble House, and Millard House.

Art lovers will want to make time for the Norton Simon Museum, whose collection includes both European masterpieces and Southeast Asian art.

And foodies will find restaurants from every cuisine in Pasadena! Try the breads and pies at Old Sasoon Bakery, or Thai street food at Chim!

Vacation Rental : This serene guesthouse set on a Spanish estate features one bedroom and one bath. Located in the heart of Pasadena with easy freeway access, the apartment has a sundeck with a view of the San Gabriel mountains and a full kitchen. Book a stay here !

Hotel : The Langham Huntington’s beautiful gardens are made for strolling. Rooms are spacious, with elegant traditional furnishings. The hotel is located at the foot of the San Gabriel mountains, with a gorgeous outdoor pool and full spa. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Pasadena: 129 miles, about 2 hours

Los Angeles

Why go : LA is so much fun if you stick to one or two areas of the sprawling city, to minimize sitting in traffic.

With gardens and museums, shopping and all things Hollywood, the City of Angels offers so much that you will find plenty to do, no matter how many times you visit!

Top things to do : If you enjoy the movies, you will want to spend some time in Hollywood. Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and tour Paramount Pictures Studios, the only film studio left in Hollywood.

Love theme parks? Harry Potter fan? You can spend a whole day at Universal Studios!

You can also snap a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign from Hollywood & Highland Center, home to the Dolby Theater and lots of shops and restaurants.

Just a few miles west are the designer stores of Rodeo Drive, where you may spot a celebrity out shopping.

Whether you are a museum buff or not, you will want to visit LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art), at least to ogle Urban Light , Levitated Mass , and other outdoor installations.

Also don’t miss the contemporary art at The Broad in downtown LA: its exterior is made for Instagram! Other fabulous museums: the Getty Museum, and the Getty Villa (the latter is one of our favorite LA spots).

A visit to the Griffith Observatory will reward you with magnificent views, even if you do not pay to see the shows in the planetarium. You can also hike to the Hollywood sign on a 3-mile trail that starts in the Observatory parking lot.

Vacation Rental : This spacious 2-bed, 2-bath home comes with an outdoor pool and jacuzzi, lush landscaping, and plenty of outdoor seating. Inside you will find a poolside queen suite and an upstairs king bed. Full kitchen and high-end furnishings. Book a stay here !

Hotel : The Beverly Wilshire , a Four Seasons Hotel, makes for a fabulous weekend escape. The historic hotel is right next door to Rodeo Drive. Rooms are spacious ans well-furnished, and some rooms have balconies. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Los Angeles: 124 miles, about 2 hours

Why go : The entertainment capital of the world has much to offer, whether you want to enjoy the grand resorts, dine at celebrity chef restaurants, or take in some world-class shows.

But Las Vegas also offers great opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, with several beautiful areas within easy driving distance.

Top things to do : Stroll Las Vegas Boulevard to view the fascinating resort facades. The walk is especially fun after dark, when all the resorts are lit up. This is one of the best things to do in Vegas , whether it’s your first visit or your tenth.

Watch the Bellagio fountain show and take a gondola ride at the Venetian. Ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower replica at Paris for great views over Vegas.

Browse the stores at Crystals City Center. Go see the Blue Man Group perform or enjoy the magic of O, the Cirque du Soleil extravaganza at the Bellagio.

Check out the quirky museums in Las Vegas: we loved our to the Neon Museum. Fremont Street is fun and lively too, with lots of street performers.

Spend a few hours enjoying the red rock formations at the Red Rock Canyon National Conservancy Area, or the red rocks at Valley of Fire State Park. Both parks are well worth the time.

Or visit Hoover Dam, a civil engineering masterpiece, and get out on the water at Lake Mead National Recreation Area.

Hotel : Vdara offers smoke free rooms and suites in the heart of all the action on Las Vegas Boulevard. Pick a fountain view suite to have a beautiful view of the Bellagio fountains from your room. Suites are spacious and well-appointed and bathrooms are large. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : Want to stay away from the Strip yet within easy driving distance? This spacious 2,500-square-foot home features three bedrooms and three baths, and has a pool and jacuzzi. The home is a few minutes drive from Las Vegas Boulevard. Interiors are well-appointed, and the home is located on a quiet street. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Las Vegas: 332 miles, about 5 hours

Who go : One of the most fun places to visit in the American Southwest, Scottsdale is famous for its resorts and golf courses, but also for its proximity to desert trails, museums, and great shopping and dining.

We’ve loved our getaways to Scottsdale and can’t wait to return!

Top things to do : If you enjoy hiking, make the trek up to the top of Camelback Mountain for panoramic views. Or head to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, where a variety of hiking trails with beautiful views of desert flora await.

The Desert Botanical Garden is another fabulous place to get up close to the flora of the region and to see lots of birds.

Old Town Scottsdale makes for a great wander, with lots of historic architecture, unique shops and art galleries. Architecture buffs can visit Taliesin West, the winter home of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is a fun stop for lovers of western history and culture.

Scottsdale has a plethora of great eateries, so bring your appetite! And allow for time to lounge by the pool at your resort while enjoying desert views, or book a pampering spa experience.

Hotel : Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows is an upscale resort located near Old Town Scottsdale, close to lots of shopping and dining. The hotel features an outdoor pool and hot tub. Rooms are well-appointed, and some rooms have mountain views. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Omni Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Montelucia is located near Camelback Mountain in a scenic setting, not too far from Old Town Scottsdale. Rooms are beautifully appointed and feature balconies. The outdoor pool, with mountain views, is stunning. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Scottsdale: 364 miles, about 5 hours and 30 minutes

Palm Springs

Why go : The gateway to the California desert, Palm Springs is known for its fabulous resorts, spas, and golf courses. It is the ultimate relaxation destination, with lots of outdoor activities, but lots of art, museums, shopping, and dining as well.

If you enjoy scenic driving routes, arrive via scenic Highway 74, part of the Palms to Pines Scenic Byway .

Top things to do : Take a tour of the city’s well-known mid-century modern architecture. Be whisked to the upper reaches of Mount San Jacinto on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for panoramic views of the desert floor.

Stroll Palm Canyon Boulevard with its fun shops and galleries and admire the walkway of the stars.

Head out into the desert on a Hummer tour, or hike nearby canyons. Soak in a hot spring pool at nearby Desert Hot Springs, visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert.

If you enjoy succulent gardens, tour Sunnylands , the desert garden in Rancho Mirage, or Moorten Botanical Garden in Palm Springs.

Allow time for lounging by the pool to soak in the sunshine, to play a round of golf at one of many dozen courses in the area, book a spa experience, and plan dinner at one of the top eateries in town.

Vacation Rental : This modern home is located in the heart of Downtown Palm Springs, and features 2 bedrooms and 2 full baths, perfect for a small family or two couples. The home has a spacious great room, a full kitchen, and a fabulous outdoor space with a pool and mountain views. Book a stay here !

Hotel : The Kimpton Rowan Palm Springs Hotel is a hip hotel with incredible mountain views and a location convenient to shopping, dining, and sightseeing. Rooms and suites are elegantly appointed. The rooftop pool and viewing deck are gorgeous. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Palm Springs: 139 miles, about 2 hours

San Diego Weekend Getaways into the Great Outdoors!

Joshua tree national park.

Why go : If you want to do some hiking amidst jaw-dropping scenery in the day and stargaze at night, consider a nature-focused weekend trip from San Diego to Joshua Tree National Park .

The desert national park makes for a great escape from fall through spring. In spring, you may also see a superbloom of wildflowers!

Top things to do : Bouldering and hiking are the most popular activities in Joshua Tree. There are Joshua Tree hikes for every skill level, from short and scenic nature trails to harder hikes that take you to mountain peaks and fan palm oases.

Don’t miss the scenic Hidden Valley Trail and the hike to Barker Dam . If you are up for a challenge, tackle the Ryan Mountain Trail to access the highest point in the park.

And while rock climbers can have a blast scaling the vertical rock faces in the park, amateurs can have fun scrambling up large boulders.

Drive through the park, stopping at major sights. Look for birds and wildlife, and snap photos of the beautiful scenery all around you.

At night, find a quiet spot and enjoy the millions of stars in the dark skies…plan your visit on a cloudless, moonless weekend for the best night sky watching.

Take in the panoramas from Keys View at sunset. Stroll the quirky town of Joshua Tree in the north of the park. Visit the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum: it’s an excellent outdoor museum north of Joshua Tree National Park.

Vacation Rental : This mid-century modern house is located between Joshua Tree town and the park. It features two bedrooms and two full bathrooms. The 1959 home has the original tiki and vintage interior features. The back patio has a large hot tub and a barbecue grill. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : Jumbo Rocks Cottage features 2 bedrooms and one bath, and it is located close to Joshua Tree town and the west entrance to the park. The home offers a cool soaking tub as well as a hot tub, and a back patio with loungers and a gas grill. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Joshua Tree: 164 miles, about 2 hours and 30 minutes

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Why go : In our opinion one of California’s most beautiful state parks , Anza-Borrego Desert State Park offers magnificent landscapes and epic hiking if you are looking for a nature-focused, active weekend away from San Diego.

Anza-Borrego makes for a great weekend trip from San Diego in the cooler months of the year.

Top things to do : There are more than 500 miles of roads in Anza-Borrego. Off-road exploration of the park is a fun thing to do if you rent a 4WD high-clearance vehicle for your weekend trip.

You can explore diverse terrains, from sand to rock and hilly to flat. Font’s Point is a great drive for sunset. You can also bike the dirt roads.

You will also find numerous hiking trails in Anza-Borrego State Park . Trails range from easy to strenuous. Many trailheads start off dirt roads, so you can combine off-road driving with hiking.

Borrego Palm Canyon Trail is easy and a must if you are a first-time visitor to the park. The payoff is a grove of palms and a year-round stream, and bighorn sheep sightings are common.

For more of a workout, try the moderate Slot Canyon hike near Borrego Mountain Wash, or the challenging Wind Caves trail which involves a steep climb but offers gorgeous views.

Spring is a great time to spend a weekend in Borrego Springs and the park. Wildflower bloom here can be spectacular, with carpets of pink, white and yellow.

And any time of year, stop to admire Ricardo Breceda’s huge sculptures of prehistoric creatures along Borrego Springs Road.

Hotel : La Casa del Zorro in Borrego Springs is a 10-minute drive from Anza-Borrego State Park. The beautiful resort features several outdoor pools and tennis courts. Rooms are spacious and have private balconies or patios. The resort offers 4-wheel desert tours. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : This spacious two-story condo features two bedroom and 3 bathrooms, and sleeps up to six guests. It is located in the heart of the town of Borrego Springs, with an open living space and access to a pool. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Borrego Springs: 85.6 miles, about 1 hour and 40 minutes

Death Valley National Park

Why go : Death Valley National Park’s spectacular desert vistas and expansive feel offer the opportunity to unplug and connect with nature.

The largest of California’s national parks , Death Valley is the lowest, driest, and hottest park in the country, but it’s a pleasant getaway in the winter, especially if you’re looking to flee the cold.

You can enjoy an active weekend exploring, or you can relax and soak in the silence and tranquility. Either way, you will have a fun weekend away!

Top things to do : Death Valley National Park’s unmissable sights never get old, no matter how many times you visit. Drive through the park and take in the views at Zabriskie Point, Dante’s View, and Artist’s Palette and Artist’s Drive .

Marvel at the enormity of the salt flats at Badwater Basin and play in the sand at Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes.

If you enjoy hiking, try the moderate Mosaic Canyon hike . The marble and mosaic walls of the canyon are lovely, and the walk through the slot exciting. There are many other Death Valley hikes you can add to your itinerary.

To peek into the area’s past, visit some of the historical sites in the park, such as Harmony Borax Works, or the Wildrose Charcoal Kilns. The Gold Rush ghost town of Rhyolite sits just outside the park.

Death Valley National Park is a Gold Star International Dark Skies Reserve, so plan on some stargazing if you visit when the skies are clear and there is no moon. Harmony Borax Works is a great night sky watching location.

Hotel : The Inn at Death Valley is a historic hotel located in Furnace Creek, close to major Death Valley attractions. The hotel offers rooms in the main building as well as standalone casitas. Not inexpensive, but definitely a fabulous option for your weekend getaway. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Also located in Furnace Creek, the Ranch at Death Valley is a comfortable and more affordable stay inside Death Valley National Park. Rooms are spacious, and onsite dining is available. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Death Valley National Park: 352 miles, about 5 hours and 30 minutes

Why go : Across the border in neighboring Arizona, the red rocks of Sedona are a photographer’s dream and an outdoor lover’s mecca. Plan a quick road trip from San Diego to Sedona to take in the spectacular scenery and savor the serene location.

Top things to do : Sedona does have its fair share of browseworthy galleries and shops, so you may want to stroll Gallery Row at some point during your weekend.

But spend the days exploring the fabulous setting of the resort town: you can hike, go mountain biking or horseback riding, or take a Pink Jeep tour. For the adventurous, hot air balloons and helicopter rides are also offered.

Sedona is known for its sacred vortexes. Plan a hike to one of the four most famous sites: Airport Mesa, Bell Rock, Boyton Canyon, or Cathedral Rock, to spend some time on introspection.

Cathedral Rock is one of Sedona’s most beautiful hikes, apart from its status as a vortex site.

Snap a photo (or three!) of the striking Chapel of the Holy Cross, built directly into Sedona’s red rocks. Visit the Palatki Heritage Site to view the rare pictographs. Enjoy a Sedona sunset from Airport Mesa.

Hotel : Sedona Rouge Hotel and Spa has a beautiful setting and offers brightly decorated modern rooms. The resort boasts a full-service spa, a rooftop bar, and a pool and jacuzzi. The onsite grill is well-reviewed. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Arabella Hotel Sedona is located near downtown Sedona and offers spacious rooms, some with beautiful views. The property features a seasonal outdoor pool and year-round hot tub, as well as a garden, and a private hiking trail with views. Breakfast is rated excellent. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Sedona: 460 miles, about 7 hours

Why go : The town of Bishop is little but it has a big backyard: it is the perfect base from which to explore California’s stunning Eastern Sierra.

If you love the outdoors, you will definitely want to plan a weekend getaway from San Diego to Bishop, CA ! Fall is an especially spectacular time to visit.

Top things to do : Hiking, biking, and bouldering are popular outdoor activities around Bishop. The Buttermilk Boulders, just outside Bishop, are a famous bouldering site.

Explore Bishop Creek Canyon, with its many beautiful lakes and lush forests. Go boating or fishing in the lakes, or the creek.

The area between Bishop and Mammoth Lakes is known for hydrothermal activity and you will find several hot springs for relaxing soaks.

You can also visit the extremely scenic Hot Creek Geological Site , with its hot pools and steam vents, although you can’t get into the water here.

For a look at the oldest living trees on earth, drive to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest . Or drive up Whitney Portal Road into the upper reaches of the tallest mountain in the contiguous states.

You’ll find interesting historical sites around Bishop as well. Look for ancient petroglyphs in the Volcanic Tablelands north of town. Nearby Laws has a railroad museum.

South of town, Manzanar National Historic Site honors Japanese Americans that were incarcerated here during WWII and the Alabama Hills , west of the little town of Lone Pine , offer stunning scenery and the opportunity to tour movie locations.

Hotel : The Creekside Inn is conveniently located close to shopping and dining and offers a creekside patio with mountain views. The outdoor swimming pool and hot tub are seasonal. Rooms are spacious and beds rated super comfy. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Bishop CA: 354 miles, about 6 hours

Why go : One of the most spectacular coastlines on the planet, Big Sur makes for an incredible weekend trip from San Diego. With several beautiful state parks and a historic lighthouse, Big Sur is an exhilarating outdoor adventure almost any time of year.

Top things to do : The Big Sur drive, in and of itself, is a super fun experience.

Hiking Big Sur is a great way to get out and explore the coastline: try the scenic ocean view trails in Point Lobos State Park or Garrapata State Park at the north end of Big Sur, or the hikes through tall redwoods in Limekiln State Park at the south end of Big Sur.

One of the most fun things to do in Big Sur is a visit to Pfeiffer Beach , for its purple sand and beautiful sea arch.

At Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, picturesque McWay Falls offers a beautiful sight. You may also see California condors in the eucalyptus trees in the park.

There are numerous scenic overlooks all along the Big Sur coast. Bixby Creek Bridge is a must-stop for photos: the single arch bridge is perched on the very edge of the shore and makes a dramatic picture.

And take a guided tour of Point Sur Light Station if it fits in your itinerary: the lighthouse is beautiful and the views stunning.

A two-day Big Sur road trip is the perfect way to take in the sights along this magnificent coast.

Hotel : Splurge weekend? Consider a stay at Ventana Big Sur ! The adult-only resort is located on a hill overlooking the Big Sur coastline and features beautiful rooms and an onsite restaurant. Book a stay here !

Hotel : You can also stay in Cambria , the charming coastal village south of Big Sur, and explore from there during the day. Moonstone Landing is an oceanfront property, with all rooms offering a full or partial ocean view. There is a hot tub, and the beach is just across the road. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Big Sur: 418 miles, about 7 hours and 15 minutes

Yosemite National Park

Why go : Yosemite National Park is California’s most beloved national park. With its gorgeous granite cliffs and waterfalls, Yosemite makes for a fabulous weekend trip from San Diego.

If you plan a trip for the off season, you may even be able to enjoy the park in relative quiet!

Top things to do : If you are a first-time visitor to Yosemite National Park, you will likely want to spend most of your weekend in Yosemite Valley, where the park’s most famous sights are located.

To see Yosemite’s waterfalls at their best, visit in the spring or early summer. But expect the park to be crowded at these times!

Visiting a couple of Yosemite’s great viewpoints is a must on any trip: Tunnel View and Glacier Point can be accessed by car, but Glacier Point is closed during the winter.

If you want a quieter trip, try exploring the lesser-visited (but still beautiful) portions of the park. Drive Tioga Pass Road , where you can hike and sightsee. Or visit the Mariposa Grove to see the giant sequoias.

Another strategy for beating the crowds is to visit in the low seasons. Winter in Yosemite is super beautiful, and you can do snowshoe hikes or just enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Late fall and early spring are other times when you will find the park less crowded. Not everything is open, but Yosemite Valley is open all year.

Vacation Rental : This lovely apartment is situated inside Yosemite National Park, about a 30-minute drive from Yosemite Valley. The cozy one-bedroom apartment features a full kitchen, and spacious living and sleeping spaces. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : This beautiful home features three bedrooms and two bathrooms, a game room, a pool and hot tub, and mountain views. perfect for families or small groups! It is located between Mariposa and Oakhurst, with access to the Arch Rock Entrance and the South Entrance to Yosemite. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Yosemite National Park: 399 miles, about 6 hours and 30 minutes

Weekend Road Trips from San Diego to Small Mountain Towns

Big bear lake.

Why go : Big Bear Lake, a mountain lake surrounded by the San Bernadino National Forest, is a beloved getaway destination in Southern California.

With its scenic setting and year-round offerings for recreation, Big Bear Lake definitely ranks as one of the top weekend getaways from San Diego!

Top things to do : Visit in the warm weather months to enjoy fishing, hiking, and mountain biking. Rent a boat and get out onto the water. From kayaks and canoes to pontoon boats, you can rent a variety of boats at Big Bear. You can even jet ski or wakeboard!

In the winter, enjoy some of the best downhill skiing and snowboarding in the state at Big Bear Mountain Resort. You can also enjoy tubing or snow play, or go for snowshoe hikes to enjoy the winter wonderland scenery.

The Village at Big Bear makes for a great wander any time of year. Browse the boutique shops for specialty gifts and antiques. Dine at a restaurant with a view. Relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

Resort : WorldMark Big Bear Lake offers apartment units with full kitchens. The resort features a seasonal outdoor pool and hot tub, tennis courts, and barbecue facilities. WorldMark Resort is located close to dining and shopping. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : This beautiful cabin has 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, a jacuzzi, and a fireplace. The home is located in a quiet cul-de-sac, close to the lake, skiing, and the Village. A fully stocked kitchen allows you to cook should you so choose. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Big Bear Lake: 145 miles, about 3 hours

Why go : A charming little town famous for its apple orchards, Julian makes for a laid-back weekend trip from San Diego.

As a Gold Rush mining town, Julian also has a rich history worth exploring. And its beautiful setting offers lots of opportunities for outdoor recreation!

Top things to do : Visit Julian in the fall to pick your own apples. It’s a fun activity for kids and adults alike! Or go panning for gold at an area mine: Julian Mining Company is located just outside town.

If you want to learn more about Julian’s history, don’t miss the Julian Pioneer Museum.

Julian’s Main Street is small and charming, with an Old West look and feel. You can browse the small shops for specialty gifts or antiques. You can even take a tour in a horse-drawn carriage!

And of course, when in Julian, you have to try the apple pie: Julian Pie Company and Mom’s Pie House are both on Main Street. you will also find cider here: both hard and regular.

If you are looking for outdoor activities, Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, close to Julian, offers hiking trails for all skill levels. Lake Cuyamaca offers boating and kayaking.

Visit Julian during the holidays to experience an old-world Christmas. You will feel the nip in the air, perhaps see snow on surrounding mountains, and enjoy strolling the town, all dressed up for Christmas.

Vacation Rental : This lovely cottage is located about 9 miles from the town. The one-bedroom, one-bath home features a deck with built-in splash pool and a fabulous view. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Quiet Mind Mountain Lodge, Retreat and Spa overlooks Lake Cuyamaca and features spacious suites with lake and mountain views. Enjoy the onsite spa, restaurant, and outdoor jacuzzi. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Julian: 60.6 miles, about 1 hour and 15 minutes

Why go : Located in the San Jacinto mountains, Idyllwild is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The tiny town offers the opportunity to slow down, relax, and savor the beauty of your surroundings.

Top things to do : Idyllwild is also the gateway to Mount San Jacinto State Park. Outdoor activities are popular in and around Idyllwild. Bring your mountain bikes and discover the many scenic rides here that range from easy to strenuous.

You can also go bouldering or rock climbing. Hikers can have their pick of beautiful trails of varying length and difficulty.

Every season in Idyllwild is beautiful: spring brings wildflowers, summers are warm and ideal for outdoor activities, fall brings beautiful leaf colors, and in winter, the town is a snow-covered wonderland.

If you love nature, you will want to visit in every season to enjoy the quiet beauty of the National Forest that surrounds the town.

The town features lovely art galleries and boutique shops. Idyllwild also has great restaurants, so bring your appetite!

Hotel: The Grand Idyllwild Lodge offers units with hardwood floors and full kitchenettes. Some units are air-conditioned, some have private patios or balconies, and some have separate sitting areas. The property has a sauna. Book a stay here !

Hotel : The Creekstone is a modern rustic-feel hotel with nine well-appointed rooms, seven of which feature fireplaces. The hotel offers free parking and free wifi. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Idyllwild: 113 miles, about 2 hours.

Wine Country Weekend Getaways from San Diego

Temecula valley.

Why go : If you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway from San Diego, head to the Temecula Valley! SoCal’s wine country is beautiful and laid back, and you can do as much or as little as you want. And you don’t have to be oenophile to enjoy Temecula!

Top things to do : If you enjoy wine, plan a tour of some of the valley vineyards, where you can enjoy wine tasting with a view of the picturesque rolling hills and vineyards. You can even tour in a horse-drawn carriage!

Adventurous visitors can enjoy hot air ballooning for panoramic views over the vineyards and citrus orchards.

Old Town Temecula is a must-visit. Admire the historic architecture (City Hall is stunning!), go antiquing, dance to country music, browse the boutique stores, and eat at great restaurants, including Mexican at The Bank (because it is housed in the town’s original bank building!) or pizza at The Goat and Vine.

Go golfing at one of six area golf courses, enjoy horseback riding through the rolling countryside, or try you luck at the local casino. Temecula has lots of day spas and spa resorts, so work a pampering treatment into your weekend.

Vacation Rental : This lovely private studio is the perfect couples weekend retreat. The studio features a super comfy king bed and a full kitchen. The property is situated close to several wineries and has a private patio with outdoor seating and access to an outdoor pool. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : This beautiful vineyard retreat can accommodate up to 6 guests. The 3-bed, 3-bath property is perched on a hilltop, with gorgeous views of the countryside and the hot air balloons! Inside, you will find beautifully-appointed living and sleeping spaces and a chef’s kitchen. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Temecula: 58.5 miles, about 1 hour

Santa Ynez Valley

Why go : The charming towns of Santa Ynez Valley will charm you, and the scenic countryside, with its vineyards, orchards, and pastures, will captivate you.

If you are considering relaxing and romantic weekend getaways from San Diego, head to the Santa Ynez Valley!

Top things to do : Each of the towns in the Santa Ynez Valley has something fun and unique to offer, so you can’t go wrong exploring any of them. Solvang is known for its Danish architecture (and giant windmills!) and hard-to-resist bakeries. Los Olivos is home to boutique shops and galleries and tasting rooms.

Santa Ynez and Los Alamos are Wild West themed, complete with saloons and feed stores. In Buellton, you can taste moonshine at an award-winning distillery. Ballard has historic homes, and a little red schoolhouse (that has been open since 1883!).

Beyond the towns, you can drive the scenic countryside, tour area vineyards, do bike tours, or go boating on Lake Cachuma. Explore the outdoors on hiking trails.

Old Mission Santa Ines is a must-visit, and there are lots of fun little museums to tour if you enjoy local history and culture.

B&B : With its beautiful garden, the Ballard Inn & Restaurant makes for a super romantic Santa Ynez Valley stay. Each room in the inn is unique, and the onsite restaurant is famed for its wine country cuisine and charming ambience. Bikes are available for use during your stay. Book a stay here !

Vacation Rental : The guesthouse on Triple B Ranch is super spacious, with two bedrooms and one bath. Beautiful pastoral views and Santa Ynez Valley sunrises and sunsets will delight you. The secluded location is just a short drive from shopping and dining. Book a stay here !

San Diego to the Santa Ynez Valley: 248 miles, about 3 hours and 45 minutes

Guadalupe River Valley

Why go : Across the international border in Baja California, Mexico, the Valle de Guadalupe is known for its vineyards and Baja Med cuisine. If you want to experience a weekend in Mexico’s beautiful wine country, remember to pack your passport! And rent a 4WD high clearance vehicle for the dirt roads in the valley.

Top things to do : There are several dozen wineries in the Valle de Guadalupe, so put wine tastings on your weekend itinerary. From large wineries to boutique operations, you can tour some of the area’s best-known producers. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the valley as you sip!

Just like Napa Valley, the Valle de Guadalupe is just as well known as a culinary destination as it is a wine destination. Home to some of the best restaurants in Latin America, the valley has one Michelin-starred restaurant so far. Many restaurants have onsite gardens and offer farm to table cuisine.

Other than enjoying the food and wine, enjoy an ATV off-road tour, visit the Museum of the Vine and Wine, or book a spa day. Ensenada is about a 45-minute drive, if you also want to enjoy the beach on your weekend.

B&B : Terra del Valle has a beautiful location, with a view of the mountains. The rustic property is well-maintained and has lovely gardens. Each room comes with a patio or balcony. Breakfast is rated highly. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Mexico en la Piel features air-conditioned rooms with patios and mountain views, and a garden and terrace. Some rooms have separate sitting areas. Free parking and free wifi are offered and there is an onsite restaurant. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Valle de Guadalupe: 85.9 miles, about 1 hour and 45 minutes

Weekend Trips from San Diego to Cool Coastal Towns

San luis obispo.

Why go : San Luis Obispo is not a beach town, but it is just a short drive from the ocean. Its lively walkable downtown, charming wine district, and great restaurants make San Luis Obispo a fun weekend getaway from San Diego.

Top things to do : San Luis Obispo is one of those places that doesn’t have a long list of must-see sights but is attractive because of its fun vibe.

Wander the downtown streets, stopping to browse shops selling artisanal foods and olive oils, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and art galleries.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa, located right in downtown, is a must-visit if you enjoy local history. There is a small museum, and gift shop, inside the mission.

Just outside town, the Edna Valley wine district makes for a scenic drive. Enjoy wine tastings with a view!

If you enjoy the outdoors, you will want to make the short drive to Montana de Oro State Park, located on the coast. The Bluff Trail at Montana de Oro is one of the most scenic (and easy!) nature trails in the area.

Bring your binoculars and look for otters and sea birds, and whales in the water!

The nearby beach towns of Pismo Beach and Avila Beach, and the fishing villages of Morro Bay and Cayucos are fun places to spend a few hours by the ocean.

Hotel : Hotel San Luis Obispo is a contemporary hotel located in the heart of the action, close to shops and dining in downtown. The hotel features spacious, well-appointed rooms. Some rooms have a sitting area and balcony. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Madonna Inn is a luxury hotel with a unique ambience that has made it a landmark in SLO. The hotel offers an outdoor pool, two restaurants, a bakery, and two bars. Rooms feature premium bedding and custom furnishings. Book a stay here !

San Diego to San Luis Obispo: 312 miles, about 4 hours and 45 minutes

Carmel-by-the-Sea

Why go : With its beautiful architecture and European look and feel, the charming coastal village of Carmel-by-the-Sea is a terrific weekend getaway destination.

You will find great shopping, wine tasting, and dining here as well, and a sandy long beach for walking. If you are considering a romantic weekend getaway from San Diego, Carmel fits the bill perfectly!

Top things to do : Walking the pretty streets is one of the most fun things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea . Wear flats or wedge heels, though, because the pavement is not even.

Browse the many world-class art galleries and the boutique shops, and explore the secret courtyards and passageways.

Visit the Carmel Mission, an integral piece of Carmel’s history. Walk the gorgeous Carmel State Beach, or the scenic pathway above the beach.

Watch the birds at the mouth of the Carmel River on Carmel River State Beach: the pelicans look majestic as they take off or land. Enjoy world-class cuisine at the many eateries in the village, and tastings of local wines.

You can also explore nearby Monterey or do the 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach. Go wine tasting in Carmel Valley , or tour historic homes in Pacific Grove .

Want to spend some time outdoors? Head to Point Lobos State Natural Reserve , just south of Carmel, for scenic water-view hiking trails and the chance to spot birds, wildlife, and marine life.

Hotel : Carriage House Inn is located conveniently close to shopping and dining in Carmel Village and is under a 10-minute walk to Carmel Beach. Rooms are elegantly furnished and feature fireplaces. Some suites have 2-person spa baths. Breakfast is highly rated and free wine and hors d’oeuvres are offered each evening. Book a stay here !

Hotel : Tradewinds Carmel is located just a couple of blocks from shopping and dining in Carmel Village. The hotel garden features lovely water fountains and a fire pit. Rooms are spacious, with Asian-inspired decor. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Carmel, CA: 442 miles, about 7 hours

Other Weekend Getaways from San Diego

Catalina island.

Why go : Santa Catalina Island is one of the most romantic getaways in California . The island lies just a few miles off the shore of Southern California and is easily accessed by ferry from Dana Point.

Whether you are looking for adventure, or you just want to chill by the water, Santa Catalina delivers!

Top things to do : Avalon and Two Harbors are the two towns on the island.

In Avalon, you will find beautiful resorts, great shopping and dining, and lots of land and ocean recreational opportunities. Two Harbors, on the western side, is more rustic and a paradise for outdoor lovers.

Take a Hummer tour to explore the interior of the island, and to see the island’s bison population.

Cruise from Avalon to Two Harbors on the open-air Cyclone. At Two Harbors, try some of the hiking trails for beautiful views and the chance to see wildlife.

Stroll the beautiful waterfront in Avalon and tour Catalina Casino, which isn’t a casino but a beautiful theater.

Enjoy a round of golf, go biking, or visit the Wrigley Memorial and Botanic Garden.

You can enjoy tons of water activities as well, from kayaking and paddleboarding to jet skiing and scuba diving.

Allow time for a spa experience and for lounging on a beachfront terrace to watch the sun set!

Hotel : Historic Hotel Atwater is located by the beach in Avalon, near shopping and dining. Rooms are spacious and elegantly appointed, and beds super comfy. Bathrooms are beautiful, with luxurious showers. With your stay, you get access to the Descanso Beach Club. Book a stay here !

Hotel: Pavilion Hotel is a beachside hotel with landscaped tropical gardens and a lounge with fire pits and cabanas. Rooms are elegantly styled, with plush white linens and blue accents. Some rooms have patios. Book a stay here !

San Diego to Dana Point: 65.3 miles, about 1 hour, plus ferry time to Catalina Island, about 1 hour and 30 minutes

Map of Weekend Getaways from San Diego

If you want to base yourself in San Diego and just explore during the day, check out our round-up of the best day trips from San Diego !

And while you are in America’s Finest City, don’t forget to visit the stunning Cabrillo National Monument and the first Spanish mission in California , and discover the best Balboa Park gardens to visit!

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

Dhara loves to explore her home state of California. With her husband Kishore, she has done numerous road trips in the state in every season. She hopes to share her love of the Golden State with you, and help you find your own exciting experiences here.

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23 Best Day Trips from San Diego (+ Map!)

20+ Best Day Trips from Los Angeles, CA (National Parks, Gardens, Beaches and More!)

Cabrillo National Monument, San Diego: Things to Do (+ Tips for Visiting!)

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The 16 best weekend getaways from atlanta.

Atlantans have an array of options for quick trips, from alpine adventures to serene seaside escapes.

Top Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

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Walk along beaches of the southeast coast, hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and explore cities like Chattanooga and Asheville on your next trip out of Atlanta.

Atlanta is a thriving Southern metropolis with world-class cultural attractions, sporting events and historic landmarks – an amazing standalone destination in its own right. The state's capital also makes a great home base, in part because of its prime location in north-central Georgia. City dwellers have access to major freeways and airports that make it a breeze to hop on the road and explore the surrounding Appalachian and Southern regions just a few hours away.

From charming coastal enclaves to sprawling golf resorts to rustic rural hideaways, Atlanta is perfectly positioned for access to a plethora of fun family trips and romantic getaways . Make your great escape from the city to one the top weekend getaways from Atlanta.

The Best Weekend Getaways From Atlanta

About two hours or less:, lake oconee, georgia, amicalola falls state park, georgia.

• Barnsley Resort, Georgia
• Callaway Resort & Gardens, Georgia

About three hours or less:

Brasstown valley resort & spa, georgia, chattanooga, tennessee, great smoky mountains national park, about four hours or less:, asheville, north carolina, columbia, south carolina, about five hours or less:, tybee island, georgia, hilton head island, south carolina, golden isles, georgia, jekyll island, georgia, about six hours or less:, myrtle beach, south carolina, a quick flight:, nashville, tennessee, key west, florida.

Located about 85 miles east of Atlanta, this recreational haven is perfect for those seeking a weekend trip with plenty of outdoor activities. While in Lake Oconee, enjoy fishing, camping, golf, hiking and water sports. Visitors admire the scenic beauty and serene atmosphere of this rural gem, which provides year-round family fun. The reservoir itself boasts nearly 375 miles of lush shoreline, lined with lakefront homes, marinas, restaurants and geologic features – like the popular Jumping Rock, accessible only by boat. Landlubbers can hit the trails at the Rock Hawk Effigy & Trails center to hike, mountain bike and watch wildlife.

The nearby town of Greensboro beckons visitors with art galleries, restaurants and boutiques to browse. You can download a free historic walking tour brochure to study while you stroll so you don't miss any notable landmarks, including several Revolutionary War- and Civil War-era structures. Balance the rustic and the regal with a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee , boasting five golf courses and a unique lakefront swimming pool – perfect for a romantic getaway in Georgia .

Conveniently located 70 miles north of the city, this expansive recreation area in Georgia makes for an easy weekend getaway in the great outdoors. The park's 800-plus acres harbor the tallest waterfall in the region and a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels, including a connector to the official Southern starting point for the renowned Appalachian Trail. The approach to the falls is challenging but worthwhile, according to visitors who appreciate the trek for its stunning scenery. Supervised activities like a zip line, archery sessions and live wildlife presentations offer additional family-friendly entertainment and adventure.

Refuel at the park's mountaintop restaurant, popular for its Sunday brunch and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the forest. On-site accommodations range from glamping and camping sites in the forest to resort-style lodge rooms and cabins – which feature beautiful views in every direction, according to travelers. The park is accessible year-round, and past visitors mention that they enjoyed the experience with fewer crowds during the winter months.

Barnsley Resort: Adairsville, Georgia

Courtesy of Barnsley Resort

This sprawling 3,000-acre property nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains was once the countryside estate of one of the South's first cotton barons, complete with elegant architecture and pristine landscaping. Visitors say the natural beauty and regal ambiance of Barnsley Resort create a quiet serenity that quickly erases any tension built up from the hustle and bustle of city life. Located about 65 miles from Atlanta, the grounds feature riding stables, a golf course, a 10-acre lake for recreation and a sport shooting facility. Other amenities – ranging from an on-site spa and seasonal outdoor pool to curated experiences like bourbon tastings and fireside s'mores – provide everything you need for a well-rounded romantic respite or girls getaway .

Despite the array of adventurous activities, a leisurely stroll through the resort's 10 acres of heirloom gardens is a must. The estate gardens, designed in the 1840s, are featured on the Georgia Garden Trail, a collection of 26 public landscapes with native blooms and historic significance. The nearby town of Adairsville is on the National Register of Historic Places, providing a charming spot to spend an afternoon of antiquing. It also offers additional dining options, which some guests felt were lacking on-site.

Address: 597 Barnsley Gardens Road NW, Adairsville, GA 30103

Callaway Resort & Gardens: Pine Mountain, Georgia

With its two golf courses, a full-service spa, expansive botanical gardens, mini-golf and private lakes featuring a 1-mile white sand beach , a weekend getaway to this 2,500-acre resort is a one-stop shop for fun and relaxation. Located about an 80-mile drive from Atlanta, Callaway Resort & Gardens boasts many activities and amenities that are accessible to non-lodging guests for a daily admission fee, providing entertainment for visitors to the nearby town of Pine Mountain, too.

Seasonal surprises and special events – including vibrant azalea blooms in the spring, foliage in the fall , beach access in the summer and an award-winning holiday light display in the winter – keep travelers returning time and time again. Nature lovers will find delight in a network of trails; the Discovery Center, with wildlife exhibits and live shows; and a conservatory with some 1,000 free-flying butterflies, which many visitors claim as their favorite feature. In addition to Aqua Island, the resort's floating water park, kids of all ages love the challenge of conquering three aerial adventure courses made from a collection of zip lines, ladders, bridges and other fun obstacles (additional fees apply).

Address: 17617 U.S. Route 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822

Just over 100 miles from Atlanta, this secluded, family-friendly mountain lodge sits in the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, spotted with the manicured greens of an on-site golf course. Travelers are enchanted with the beautiful scenery, complete with hardwood forests and flowing streams, which can be explored on a hike or horseback trail ride around the 503-acre property. Equestrian enthusiasts will feel right at home at this full-service north Georgia resort, with its stables, guided trail rides, riding lessons, and customized experiences like catered picnic outings and hayrides. Afterward, soak away any soreness with a refreshing dip in the indoor-outdoor swimming pool or a visit to the spa before heading to dinner at one of the two on-site restaurants. Located on sacred Cherokee ground, Brasstown Valley Resort offers spa services that incorporate ancient Indigenous healing practices.

The surrounding area boasts additional restaurants and attractions such as Crane Creek Vineyards for wine tasting or Lake Chatuge for fishing and boating, which the resort concierge can assist in making arrangements to visit. While people adore the rustic fireplaces throughout the lodge for setting a nice scene to relax with a book or glass of wine, some travelers say the guest rooms feel outdated.

Address: 6321 U.S. Route 76, Young Harris, GA 30582

This midsize mountain town about 120 miles from Atlanta is known as the "Scenic City" for its location on the banks of the Tennessee River at the base of Lookout Mountain – a beautiful natural area that can be explored with a thrilling ride on the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway , a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark. Then, plunge underneath the peak to discover Ruby Falls, the country's tallest and deepest underground waterfall. Visitors advise that although tickets and reservations are required for each of these top-rated activities, both experiences are worth the cost of admission. For a more laid-back trek, you can take a stroll across the Walnut Street Bridge – one of the longest footbridges in the world – at sunset.

Chattanooga is a great place for multigenerational families to vacation together thanks to an array of historic and cultural attractions that pique the interest of all ages. Stop by the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum and Tennessee Aquarium , which residents and tourists alike admire for its impressive collection of more than 9,000 living creatures arranged in thoughtful displays. All of these attractions are easily accessible from The Westin Chattanooga , an upscale hotel located downtown whose rooftop restaurant serves up an impressive view.

[See more of Chattanooga:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Visitors gush about the scenic trails, waterfalls and wildlife that abound in this natural treasure, and Atlanta residents can experience it all for themselves during a long weekend. The entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park located in Cherokee, North Carolina, is about 165 miles from Atlanta. The more than 522,000-acre park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and hosts more than 11 million visitors each year – the most of any U.S. national park. A drive north along Newfound Gap Road, the park's main thoroughfare, covers about 30 miles, but you'll want to allow at least two hours to stop at the numerous scenic overlooks and landmarks, such as Clingmans Dome, the highest peak in the park, and Mingus Mill, a historic gristmill that gives live demonstrations.

If time allows, hit the trails for a more in-depth view of the park, including its many notable waterfalls. Located near Sugarlands Visitor Center, the popular Laurel Falls Trail is about 2.5 miles round trip with a moderate incline, leading to a picturesque 80-foot cascade. There aren't any hotels or restaurants located within the park (save for a few snack items found at the visitor centers), but a plethora of shops, dining and accommodations options can be found in the resort town of Gatlinburg, Tennessee , located near the northern park entrance. The Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg is top-rated by travelers for its good value, ambiance and amenities.

[See more of Great Smoky Mountains National Park:  Things to Do  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Hop in the car and cruise north about 200 miles to this vibrant town in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains for a romantic North Carolina getaway or family trip. You'll enjoy access to outdoor recreation, farm-to-table cuisine and the iconic Biltmore Estate : an 8,000-acre property with a chateau museum, restaurant and winery. The historic landmark is top-rated by travelers for its architecture and gardens, especially during the holidays, but some guests warn that admission is a pricey affair. Immerse yourself with an overnight stay at one of the on-site hotels , where you can get the royal treatment with special activities like wine tastings and a falconry experience.

In downtown Asheville , follow the Asheville Urban Trail to work your way through some of the city's other notable spots, from public artwork and indie bookstores to historic buildings and markers, with a plethora of restaurants, shops and parks to explore along the nearly 2-mile route. Travelers can also get out into nature on one of the area's top hikes . Make sure to stop at a brewery to sample the local suds, too, as the city is known as the beer capital of the Southeast and has more than 100 craft beers to offer.

[See more of Asheville:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

This midsize college town is chock-full of trails, events, attractions, restaurants and history to discover – including plenty of free things to do – for a fun weekend trip in South Carolina's state capital. You'll find this city a 215-mile drive from Atlanta. Start with a stroll around the recently revitalized downtown district: Attractions range from the Columbia Museum of Art, known for its thematically organized galleries, to the Soda City Market, a weekly roundup of regional eateries and artisans adored by both travelers and residents alike for its charming atmosphere and variety of vendors. Keep your eyes peeled for public artwork tucked into otherwise nondescript nooks and crannies, including the zany "Tunnelvision" mural by Columbia-born artist Blue Sky.

Next, head to the Congaree riverfront; you can float or paddle the muddy waters, or simply watch for birds and enjoy the lush scenery from the shore. Along the Saluda River sits the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, which houses a nature trail lined with Civil War-era landmarks in addition to more than 2,000 animals. End your day at Terra restaurant, a farm-to-table eatery where diners can enjoy modern dishes and traditional Southern flavors crafted by a James Beard Award-winning chef – such as a pimento cheeseburger pizza.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Columbia, South Carolina .]

Located just off the coast of Savannah, Georgia , near the South Carolina state border, Tybee Island is heralded for its beautiful beaches and water sports like kayaking and fishing. It sits about 265 miles from Atlanta. The laid-back island is also known for its collection of seaside eateries: Stop by the North Beach Bar & Grill at the base of the Tybee Island Lighthouse or feast at the Crab Shack. You can refuel at the latter with the Snow Country Boil platter, the outpost's unique twist on the traditional Southern seafood dish piled high with shrimp, potatoes, corn on the cob and snow crab legs. Although this popular dining spot and former fishing camp overlooking Chimney Creek can feel a bit touristy, travelers say it's at least worth a stop to check out the on-site alligator lagoon.

The top-rated Tybee Island Inn is described as charming and serene by guests who come back again and again for the bed-and-breakfast 's convenient location near the beach.

Located around 280 miles from Atlanta, this world-class coastal destination is worth the drive for its golf courses , pristine beaches and waterfront dining , most of which can be enjoyed year-round thanks to its warm climate. While on Hilton Head , indulging in Lowcountry cuisine is a must; enjoy seafood boils, fried okra and grits with views over the water at restaurants like the Skull Creek Boathouse. To learn even more about the Lowcountry region's heritage, head to the Coastal Discovery Museum , which is free to enter and lauded by patrons as a hidden gem.

The island is home to two dozen gorgeous championship golf courses and regularly hosts PGA tour events that attract spectators from around the world. The swanky Sea Pines Resort showcases Southern hospitality at its finest, and its Harbour Town location provides plenty of entertainment of its own.

[See more of Hilton Head:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

This cluster of barrier islands on Georgia's Atlantic coast – known as the Golden Isles for its cream-colored sand – provides paradise for those seeking to escape the heat and hustle of the city for a few days. The area is popular for its iconic marshland scenery, laid-back lifestyle and acclaimed golf courses, but each of the islands has distinct offerings. Start with a stop by the historic mainland city of Brunswick – about 305 miles from Atlanta – to poke around its Colonial squares and landmarks before heading to the coast.

The largest of the Golden Isles, St. Simons Island, is home to Pier Village, a quaint district with shops, restaurants and an iconic lighthouse, where visitors say the panoramic views from the top are well worth the climb. Heading north, the exclusive resort community of Sea Island boasts a private beach club, championship golf courses, horseback riding, and a variety of dining and lodging options, including the internationally acclaimed Cloister at Sea Island hotel.

For ultimate privacy and serenity, hop on a ferry at the Hampton River Marina on St. Simons Island for access to the northernmost outpost: Little St. Simons Island. Here you can partake in a naturalist-guided tour of its 11,000 acres of undeveloped beaches, maritime forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife, including 300-plus species of birds. Or, book a cottage at The Lodge on Little St. Simons Island. This all-inclusive resort full of Southern charm accommodates just 32 people per night – ideal for a romantic weekend getaway or a small family reunion.

Guests must pay a parking fee to gain access to Jekyll Island, the southernmost island of the Golden Isle chain. Once covered with sprawling Civil War-era plantations, the island is now a haven for nature lovers with trails for hiking, biking and bird-watching. Its pristine beaches are known for their extraordinary shelling. Travelers say the remote Driftwood Beach, located on the north end of the island, is a must-visit attraction for iconic photos of the sandy strip's twisted log formations and stunning sunsets.

Jekyll Island is also home to the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, a state-of-the-art rehabilitation and research facility. Sea turtles are the unofficial mascot of the area, and visitors will find turtle-themed events and activities planned throughout the year, including the Turtle Crawl races and Turtleween festivities. Half a mile from the turtle center sits the Jekyll Island Club Resort , a historic enclave on the banks of the East River with a variety of lodging options, applauded by guests for its beautiful grounds and Southern charm.

Drive directly east of Atlanta and you'll reach Myrtle Beach in about 360 miles. This beach resort is great for families with kids, as an array of entertaining attractions will keep them busy. Check out the oceanfront Family Kingdom Amusement Park , Myrtle Waves Water Park, mini-golf courses and Ripley's Aquarium of Myrtle Beach , where visitors of all ages find delight in unique exhibits like a shark tunnel, penguin pool and stingray touch tank.

The beach itself is 60 miles long and lined with hotels and high-rise apartment buildings for easy access to sand and surf for sunbathing, water sports and sunrise (or sunset) strolls. Its crown jewel is the Myrtle Beach Boardwalk, a scenic promenade complete with a 200-foot Ferris wheel: The Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, featuring a cutting-edge design and enclosed gondolas for up to six people, was the first of its kind in the country. If sand traps rather than sandcastles are more your style, Myrtle Beach also boasts more than 80 golf courses , many of which are PGA-rated and celebrity-designed.

[See more of Myrtle Beach:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

A short flight:

Nashville is conveniently only about an hourlong flight away. Traditionally known as the "Country Music Capital of the World," this glitzy Southern city has become a popular destination. There's so much more to see than the Grand Ole Opry (although this renowned landmark is still not to be missed). Guests of the Fairlane Hotel enjoy a central location from which to explore the expansive city.

The best way to see as much as possible during a quick weekend trip to Nashville is to purchase tickets for the Old Town Trolley: a hop-on, hop-off tour that shuttles travelers to more than a dozen popular attractions around the city. Stops include the Ryman Auditorium , a famous concert venue and original home of the Opry, and the Parthenon in Centennial Park, a full-size replica of the Greek original that houses a collection of artwork. After the trolley tour, you can quench your thirst at Nelson's Green Brier Distillery , a historic watering hole whose interesting tour and tasty whisky samples visitors rave about.

[See more of Nashville:  Things to Do  | Tours |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Atlantans can board a less than two-hour flight for a tropical weekend getaway to Key West , known as the southernmost city in the continental U.S. for its location about 90 miles north of Cuba. The town boasts crystal-clear sea and picturesque beaches as well as various annual festivals and events. The wild Fantasy Fest around Halloween is one draw to Key West; there's also the Hemingway Days Festival, a celebration of the famous author whose historic home is now a local museum. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is one of the city's top attractions for its witty and informative tour guides.

Watching the sunset is another popular pastime in Key West: The city's Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , a former Civil War fortress, is one of the best viewing spots around. Travelers also recommend heading to Mallory Square for its nightly sunset celebration featuring street performers, food trucks and ocean views. Once the sun goes down, Duval Street comes alive with a mile of lively open-air bars and restaurants where visitors can sip rum cocktails and dance until the sun comes up again. Recover in the shade of a palm tree on Smathers Beach , a serene swath of sand just steps away from the hip Margaritaville Beach House Key West.

[See more of Key West:  Things to Do  |  Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Things to Do in Blue Ridge, Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Augusta, Georgia
• The Top Things to Do in Helen, Georgia
• The Top Places to Visit in the North Carolina Mountains
• The Top Weekender Bags for Women
• The Top Travel Neck Pillows
• The Top Carry-on Luggage
• The Top Duffel Bags

Tags: Travel , Vacation Ideas , Georgia Vacations , Southeast Vacations

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The best travel destinations within 5 hours of New York City

• You may be looking to escape New York City for a weekend without compromising your wallet or limited vacation days.
• There are quick weekend getaways, like Bermuda or Tulum, that you can visit from New York City in five hours or less.
• Here are the best destinations within five hours of New York City.

Summer may be over, but that doesn't mean you can't book a vacation before the winter doldrums hit.

It doesn't have to mean taking a two-week trip to the Greek islands — if your direct flight in short enough, a four-day weekend can feel like a complete getaway. In four days, you can enter full vacation mode without spending a fortune on lodging while using only two vacation days.

Plus, a short flight won't take too much time away from beaching, lounging, sightseeing, and eating your way through your chosen destination.

One of the biggest hurdles for those with time constraints is deciding where to go. While I'm grateful for the abundance of travel resources out there on the internet, sometimes the options are just too overwhelming. I could spend a full week on the Kayak Explore function and never actually book a ticket thanks to overstimulation and indecision.

Based on your time frame, you've got to just pick a part of the world that makes sense from an itinerary perspective and narrow down your options from there. For those in the Northeast, we've pulled together 10 of the best destinations within a five-hour direct flight from New York City.

For New Yorkers, Bermuda is arguably the closest tropical destination. It's a 2-1/2-hour direct flight from New York, with round-trip tickets starting at about $280 . Consisting of more than 150 islands , Bermuda is only about 650 miles off the coast of North Carolina. (Just keep hurricane season, June to November, in mind when you book.)

You can sometimes book a nonstop flight to Reykjavik for under $300. OK, the flight actually lasts closer to 5 1/2 hours, but the bit of extra flight time can get you all the way to the home of the Blue Lagoon and quite a few "Game of Thrones" filming locations . Five hours seems minor when you consider that it gets you all the way to the land of aurora borealis .

You don't need to leave the country for a tropical getaway. With incredible food options and culture galore, Miami is so much more than just beaches and nightlife. Plus, three-hour direct flights start at $250 .

4. Austin, Texas

The live-music mecca also has hiking, history, and a budding food scene. You can get deep in the heart of Texas in only four hours for as little as $225 . Check out Barton Springs , a 3-acre swimming pool fed by warm natural springs, in Zilker Park.

5. Tulum, Mexico

To get to Tulum, you'll fly four hours to Cancun and then drive an hour south, but the trek is worth it to surround yourself with tropical forests and Mayan ruins. Flights to Cancun start at about  $250 round-trip.

6. New Orleans

In just three hours, for about  $200 , you can wind up in the city of live jazz, beignets, and charbroiled oysters. For quintessential tourist spots, head down Bourbon Street , or for nightlife with a more local flair, try jazz on Frenchmen Street .

7. The Bahamas

There are 700 islands in the Bahamas and so much to see, from Paradise Island to Bimini to Grand Bahama. It's a quick three-hour flight to Nassau for about $450 .

8. Montreal

Going south isn't your only option. You'll be in poutine country after only 1 1/2 hours in the air (starting at about $215 ). Take in Old Montreal and, of course, get your smoked-meat fix at Schwartz's .

9. Charleston, South Carolina

The flights are two hours and start at under $200 , round-trip. The port city of South Carolina has Southern charm, and the brightly colored buildings and palm trees make it a photographer's dream town.

10. Portland, Maine

An hourlong direct flight to Portland (starting at about $150 ) can make for the perfect coastal excursion. The salty New England air makes for a welcome contrast to New York City.

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Your Family Will Love These 30 Road Trips Near Chicago

• Updated: 04/03/2024

Chicago and US Midwest families, we feel you. Airplane tickets are pricier than ever. Though, your need for a getaway has never been greater. 

You want to get out of town with minimal effort and do not want to spend a small fortune to do it. 

To help, I share my favorite short to medium-distance driving destinations and those recommended by regional experts—other travel bloggers and planners passionate about places in the Midwest. 

Together, we came up with this list of the 30 best road trip destinations for the summer and the fall, from big cities to small charming towns to blow-you-away natural wonders, all within a five-hour drive of Chicago.

Table Of Contents

Check out our destination recommendations by state below. 

• Michigan & Ontario

Or view all 30+ places we recommend going in the map below.

How to use this map:  In the map header, click the square tab to the left of my logo or click the enlarge frame to the right to view detail. You can save the map to “Your Places” on Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map name. Or you can share it by clicking the share icon.

Wisconsin: Top Road Trips Within 5 Hours of Chicago

Welcome to Wisconsin, or the “Dairyland State,” loved by visitors for its rich dairy heritage, delicious cheeses, and beautiful landscapes, including miles upon miles of lakeshore coastline.

Check out these six Wisconsin destinations shared in more detail below.

• Madison, WI
• Milwaukee, WI
• Sheboygan, WI
• Door County, WI
• Wisconsin Dells, WI
• Lake Geneva, WI

Also, consider adding Green Bay (a 4-hour drive) and the lake-perfect Northwoods towns of Manitowish Waters and Boulder Junction (a 5.5-hour drive) to your driving trip wishlists.

Madison, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 2.5 to 3 hours

Recommended by: Rebecca Gade Sawicki of VeggiesAbroad.com

At just two and a half hours from Chicago, Madison is the perfect destination for a quick day trip or a weekend away . This sustainability-focused college town offers families tons of outdoor activities, diverse dining, and art and culture.

If you’re a family that loves the outdoors, visiting Madison during the summer is best. This is the prime time to enjoy the city’s prized lake life (five lakes surround it) and over 200 miles of paved bike trails. Madisonians love to bike (even in the winter), which is one of the best ways to see the city.

Another great activity to see Madison’s unique and eco-friendly side is to explore the independent boutiques that line Willy Street. You’ll find plenty of vintage shops, locally created art, zero-waste products, and clothing that’s been ethically produced and sourced.

While you’re in the area, don’t miss an iconic Madison treat, Nutkrack — this sweet and salty snack was actually created by accident! And, around the corner from Nutkrack is Madison’s oldest vegetarian restaurant , Green Owl Café — don’t miss their loaded vegan cheese fries.

When deciding where to stay in the city, the best place is downtown. This will put you within easy walking distance of many shops, restaurants, and events.

The Hyatt Madison/Downtown offers spacious rooms and suites, perfect for families, along with continental breakfast, and has multiple sustainability initiatives to reduce its and its guest’s carbon footprint. Or search for more Madison lodging options here .

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Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 1.5 hours

Recommended by: Lisa of WavesandCobblestones.com

Milwaukee, Wisconsin , is the perfect city to visit on a family road trip from Chicago. Milwaukee is an easy 1.5-hour drive from Chicago, located to the north along the banks of Lake Michigan.

There are plenty of great things to do in Milwaukee to keep your family entertained! Rent kayaks and paddle along the Milwaukee Riverfront for some fresh air and exercise. Or show some team spirit and take the family to a ball game and watch the Brewers play baseball at the American Family Field or the Bucks on the basketball court at the Fiserv Forum.

There are many fun museums to visit in Milwaukee with your family, such as the Milwaukee Art Museum , a top-notch fine arts museum, where admission is free for children 12 years and younger. Or Discovery World , Milwaukee’s science museum, and Reiman Aquarium. Or the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum—a one-of-a-kind museum with over 10,000 bobbleheads from across the globe!

Stay at the Plaza Hotel , centrally located in Milwaukee’s historic Lower East Side, with suites that include a pull-out sofa and accommodate up to four people. The Plaza rooms have full kitchens, and with a large grocery store just a block away, you can save money on meals and snacks during your stay.

Or search for more Milwaukee lodging options here .

Sheboygan, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 2.5 hours

Recommended by: Theresa Goodrich of TheLocalTourist.com

Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is a surprising destination only two and a half hours away from Chicago and a great road trip for families because of the variety of things to do. Begin your visit at the Visit Sheboygan Visitors Center and see Science on a Sphere , a suspended globe that acts as a projector screen displaying programs provided by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. You can also get tips for places to visit and pick up brochures and souvenirs.

One of the best things to do in Sheboygan for families is Bookworm Gardens. This whimsical garden is a haven for book lovers and children alike, where literature comes to life through vibrant displays and interactive exhibits. Another must-stop for families is the Above and Beyond Children’s Museum . You can’t miss it—there is a ship’s hull sticking out of the building! While downtown, stroll 8th Street for delicious pizza at Il Ritrovo , and don’t miss the Victorian Chocolate Shoppe . Since Sheboygan is on the shores of Lake Michigan, it is also a great summer vacation spot, with sandy beaches and lakefront parks .

Make Blue Harbor Resort your base camp. With its own waterpark, an arcade, mini-golf, a beach, and outdoor games—the kids will love staying at this resort. Or search for more Sheboygan lodging options here . 

Door County, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4 to 5 hours

Recommended by: Janice Moskoff of GatherandGoTravel.com

This Wisconsin peninsula just north of Green Bay, surrounded by Lake Michigan, boasts beautiful beaches, scenic hiking trails, and family-friendly activities that will keep everyone pleased for days. 

We visited Door County in the fall , and it was gorgeous. The leaves had not quite fully changed, though we took full advantage of the pretty outdoors to bike and hike at several of the peninsula’s five state parks . 

We even visited Cave Point County Park , one of the Door’s nearly 20 county parks, and were treated to an easy-to-access spectacular scene of Lake Michigan waves crashing against a stunning rocky coastline on a windy day. The beauty of this experience blew us away. Expect the Door to do the same to you.

In the summer, the Door truly shines. Families flock here for the beaches, events, and the abundance of outdoor activities. 

With over 300 miles of shoreline , you can swim, kayak, and fish in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan, especially gorgeous on a sunny day.  Plus, the towns dotting the peninsula are charming, full of shops, galleries, and many restaurants.

Visit or stay on the west or bayside of the peninsula, where you can catch sunsets in towns like Fish Creek or Sister Bay . Or opt for the eastside—where we stayed—and catch the sunrises in or around Bailey’s Harbor . Top family-friendly resorts include Newport Resort , Ephraim Shores Resort , and Scandinavian Lodge . Though, know that the Door books early. So, if you plan your trip last minute, grab the best lodging you can get from Sturgeon Bay or further north and use it as a base to drive around and explore the Door. 

Search all family-friendly Door County lodging options on VRBO or Booking.com .

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Approx drive time from Chicago: 3 hours

Recommended by: Hannah & Adam Lukaszewicz of GettingStamped.com

The Wisconsin Dells is the ideal road trip destination from Chicago as it is known as the Waterpark Capital of the World . The driving distance from Chicago to Wisconsin Dells is just under three hours, making it the perfect length for a weekend getaway . Kids love to splash and play in the water, so why not visit multiple waterparks in one road trip?

The Wisconsin Dells is home to the first-ever indoor waterpark and currently has the largest concentration of waterparks in the world. No matter if you are visiting in the summer or the winter, you will find an amazing waterpark for your family to visit and enjoy, as the area is home to 12 different indoor water parks and over 20 water parks in total.

The best place to stay in Wisconsin Dells is one of the Waterpark Hotels . Our favorite waterpark hotel is Great Wolf Lodge as not only does it have a fantastic waterpark with a 6000 ft outdoor pool, 1000 gallon tipping bucket, a wave pool with three-foot-tall waves, a toddler pool, and a variety of slides for kids of all ages.

The Great Wolf Lodge has unique themed rooms and fun activities, including magi-quest, live shows, and an arcade, making it a kid paradise!

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 2 hours

Recommended by: Diana of TravelsinPoland.com

With an approximate driving time of 2 hours, Lake Geneva is a short drive from Chicago and one of the best cities to visit in Wisconsin. The small-town atmosphere combined with a variety of activities make it a perfect choice for families with children of all ages.

Families can enjoy a day on the water, renting boats, kayaks, or paddle boards, or opt for a scenic boat tour around the lake. Or walk along a portion of the Lake Geneva Shore Path , a 21-mile trail that offers stunning views of grand estates and natural beauty. Spending time on the lake is the best way to experience the area, particularly during warmer months. Shopping in downtown Lake Geneva can keep families occupied for hours. The shops along the main roads have unique items such as art and handcrafted goods. There are also mom-and-pop cafes, ice cream, and candy shops in town.

For accommodation, The Abbey Resort , located in the heart of town, offers a great choice. It is a full-service family-friendly resort offering spacious rooms, indoor and outdoor pools, a game room for the kids, and a full-service spa for the adults. Or search for more Lake Geneva lodging options here .

Michigan & Ontario: Top Road Trips Within 5 Hours of Chicago

Experience the best of the Mitten State , a northern gem and a truly ideal destination for vacationing families. The Michigan coastlines—particularly to the west, with sandy beaches, spectacular sunsets, and towering dunes —will wow you with their beauty. Plus, the vibrant cities and small towns in Michigan will offer enough activities and culinary delights to keep you busy and satisfied for days.

Check out these four Michigan & Ontario destinations shared in more detail below.

• Saugatuck, MI
• Ann Arbor, MI
• Detroit, MI, into Ontario, Canada (a loop driving trip)
• Traverse City, MI (with a day trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore)

To expand your options—consider adding these Michigan Southwest coastal towns to your road-trip-and-relax lists, like New Buffalo, St. Joseph/Benton Harbor, South Haven, Holland, and Grand Haven. Or spend time exploring more urban centers like Detroit or Grand Rapids .

Saugatuck, Michigan

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 3 hours

We love Saugatuck. We have visited for weekend trips several times in the fall and keep returning for more.  What draws us? The unbelievably beautiful beaches and dunes, the quaint downtown area filled with art galleries and boutiques, and the concentration of seriously elevated cuisine.

Our favorite beaches are Oval Beach , which consistently ranks as one of the top beaches in the country, and offers soft sand, clear water, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.  Additionally, we love the nearby and dog-friendly Saugatuck Dunes State Park , which is perfect for hiking and exploring, with over 1,000 acres of dunes, forests, and beaches.

When not visiting the beaches or getting ice cream, or shopping the galleries on Butler Street, Saugatuck’s main thoroughfare, we spend our time apple picking (in the fall), boating on the Kalamazoo River, or dining at one of the truly fantastic eateries in and around town. I share more things we love to do in Fall Trip: 10 Wonderful Family Things to Do in Saugatuck, MI “

Visiting families also love going on Saugatuck Dune Rides . This thrilling ride takes you on a tour of the dunes, with steep climbs and drops, which the kids will love. And bonus! The knowledgeable guides will share the history and ecology of the area, making it both fun and educational. 

For meals, you cannot go wrong nearly anywhere you choose to eat, but our favorites include The Southerner , where the biscuits alone are worth repeat visits, Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions , and a short 15-minute drive to enjoy drinks and snacks at Virtue Cider .

Booking a stay in Saugatuck can be surprisingly pricey, so I share helpful information on where you can stay in the surrounding areas for less in “ Saugatuck, MI: 8 Amazing Areas to Search for Lodging .” Then, and especially because many local inns do not allow children as guests, I detail my top choices for family lodging in “ Roundup of the Best Family-Friendly Places to Stay in Saugatuck .”

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4 hours

Whether you’re a University of Michigan sports enthusiast or just looking for a hip town surrounded by gorgeous natural beauty, Ann Arbor is the ideal Michigan town to visit!  From Chicago, the trip via car or train (Amtrak offers service from Chicago’s Union Station to Ann Arbor) is just under four hours , making it a perfect road trip for a few days away!

Ann Arbor is well known for its thriving arts and culture scene . Year-round, it hosts a variety of art, music, and film festivals, including one of the largest outdoor art fairs in the nation, The Ann Arbor Art Fair . The Art Fair takes over Ann Arbor every July and spans 30 city blocks with over 1,000 artists! You’ll also find food and music throughout the fair.

For families who enjoy outdoor activities, you’re in luck! Ann Arbor is surrounded by natural beauty, with parks, nature reserves, and the Huron River flowing through it. Head to the Argo Livery during the summer and rent a canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddle board. You can go out on your own, or Argo offers multiple group river trips that range in time and distance from just under 4 miles and 1.5 hours to almost 6 miles and 2.5 hours.

When it comes to dining, you’re in for a treat — the city is well-known for its eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants. From the famous and funky sandwiches at Zingerman’s Delicatessen to the veggie eats at Ann Arbor’s best vegan restaurant, Detroit Street Filling Station.

When choosing a place to stay, it’s best to stay right in the heart of the city (especially if it’s your first visit). Two terrific family options include the Residence Inn by Marriott Ann Arbor Downtown and The Graduate Ann Arbor . Or search for more Ann Arbor lodging options here .

Detroit to Southwestern Ontario Loop Trip (a 5 Day, 4 Night Itinerary)

Approximate drive time from Chicago to Detroit: 4.5 hours

Recommended by: Erie Conners of EverywhereOntario.com

For a unique road trip that takes you into another country, consider making the trip from Chicago to Southwestern Ontario , Canada.  This southernmost region of Canada is filled with quaint small towns, sandy beaches , an abundance of fruit farms and wineries , and incredible historic sites that tell important stories from the Underground Railroad that delivered many slaves to freedom in the 1800s. 

From Chicago, you’ll drive 4 hours to the Detroit-Windsor border. In Detroit, you’ll cross the Ambassador Bridge or take the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel to get into Canada. 

Depending on how long you’ll be staying in Canada, here are the sites I recommend according to a path that takes you from the Detroit-Windsor border to the Sarnia-Port Huron border , where you’ll loop back to Chicago:

• Optional overnight at Caesar’s Windsor Hotel , or search for other Windsor lodging .
• Or, Pelee Island : Take the ferry to Canada’s southernmost landmass, Pelee Island. Visit Pelee Island Winery and bike around the island before taking the ferry home. Overnight in Leamington at a beautiful B&B , or other lodging . 
• Grand Bend Beach : Visit one of Ontario’s top beaches in the summer months. Lounge on the beach, participate in water sports, or walk along the Grand Bend Strip for boutique shopping.
• Sarnia: Walk along the waterfront to see Port Huron from the Canadian side. Overnight at The Insignia Hotel , in Sarnia . Or stay search for other nearby lodging .
• Cross the Bluewater Bridge back to Port Huron and drive 5 hours back to Chicago.

Traverse City, Michigan

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 5 to 5.5 hours

We visited vibrant Traverse City, MI , picturesquely nestled at the southern u-shaped end of Grand Traverse Bay , for five days in the heart of summer with our family dog and loved every minute of our trip. 

In addition to enjoying the lakeshore views that front the length of the town and strolling the shops and restaurants of bustling Front Street, our favorite activities were biking along the wooded TART trails—especially the Leelanau Trail, and hiking. 

We walked the paths in Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area , located behind the outdoor shopping plaza, making our way to the Hippie Tree, a massive old willow tree at the center of the trail network. Painted in bright colors by locals representing living artwork, the tree is rumored to have a haunted history that we only learned about after our visit. 

On another day, we drove out to the Old Mission Point Peninsula to spend the day enjoying the sweeping lake views from the lighthouse, hiking the trails in the adjacent Old Mision Point Park , stopping to buy fresh farmstand cherries, picking blueberries with the kids, and to enjoy a late al fresco lakeside lunch at the Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery .

Another highlight was taking a day to visit the Sleeping Dunes National Lakeshore (a 40-minute drive), where we climbed dunes, hiked the Empire Bluff Trail , one of many in the area , and relaxed and picnicked on dog-friendly Esch beach. 

In addition to the outdoor activities, which could also include boat trips on Lake Michigan or kayaking on local lakes or rivers, your family will love the varied collection of breweries and wineries with outdoor dining areas ideal for families. When visiting, you can stay at a centrally located and family-friendly hotel, like the Bayshore Resort . Or search for a rental in the area. Find more available Traverse City hotels and lodging here . 

Indiana: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Hang out in the Hoosier State in one of these two top destinations:

• Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
• Indianapolis, IN

Additionally, consider staying in French Lick, IN, at the French Lick Resort  (a 5-hour drive), located in the hills of Indiana’s Hoosier National Forest. It is a classic family-friendly Americana resort offering loads of activities including, golf, biking, hiking, spa treatments, and supervised drop-off kid activities.

Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 45 minutes

Recommended by: Caitlin Dismore of TwinFamilyTravels.com

If you are in the Chicago area and looking for a family-friendly trip nearby, definitely consider visiting Indiana Dunes National Park and the surrounding area. Just 45 minutes outside of the city, the park offers a beautiful setting with plenty of beach access points and hiking trails.

In addition to the fabulous activities within the park, the surrounding towns offer a variety of attractions, shopping, and dining to keep the whole family entertained. West Beach is the perfect place for a family outing. It’s the largest beach in Indiana Dunes National Park and is great for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. The Lake Michigan water is clean and clear, and there’s plenty of sand for kids to play with.

Hiking is another popular activity while in the park. Explore Indiana Dune’s biodiversity by hiking along the boardwalks, past historic homes, and even through marsh areas. If you are up for it, complete the 3 Dune Challenge at the nearby Indiana Dunes State Park .

If you are traveling with young children, consider staying at the Country Inn & Suites By Carlson Portage . The hotel has both a standard indoor pool and a shallow pool specifically designed for children, complete with a frog slide. Or search for other lodging options in the nearby Portage, Indiana area.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 3 to 3.5 hours

This lively Midwestern city offers a wide range of activities and attractions ideal for families. From world-class museums to racetracks , expect a visit to Indy will be a memory-making trip your kids will love.

Top spots include the Indianapolis Children’s Museum , which has 472,900 square feet and five halls of exhibit space, making it the largest children’s museum in the world!  While there, kids can explore science, history, and art exhibits. Or they can ride a carousel, board a train, or climb a giant treehouse.

Prefer outdoor activities?  Be sure to visit the Indianapolis Zoo and White River Gardens , where the kids can roam, see amazing things, and do fun activities. In addition to seeing tigers, dolphins, and orangutans, the kids can visit the petting zoo, ride trains, join for animal feedings, or watch cheetah racing. 

For families who love cars and racing, include a visit to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway . Known as the “Racing Capital of the World,” the speedway is home to the famous Indianapolis 500 race and offers tours of the track and museum. When in the area, stop for burgers and root beers at the Mug ‘n Bun, a nearby vintage drive-in.

On where to stay, consider booking a room at the five-star Conrad Indianapolis tops the list with its spacious rooms and prime downtown location. Prefer something less splurgy? The more budget-friendly Homewood Suites by Hilton Downtown Indianapolis , with a complimentary breakfast, makes for an excellent alternative. Or search for other lodging options in the Indy area here .

Illinois: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Check out these top locations in the Land of Lincoln: 

• Starved Rock State Park, IL
• Shawnee National Forest, IL

Also, consider a visit to Galena (a 2.5 to 3-hour drive) with a historic downtown full of shops and restaurants, nearby outdoor activities like walking and biking along the Galena River, and lots of family-friendly lodging , some with pools.

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Recommended by: Alyssa of AnAppleaPlane.com

Only 1.5 hours by car outside the bustling city of Chicago, Starved Rock State Park transports visitors into another world. Dramatic canyons and cascading waterfalls are not the first things you picture when you think of the Midwest!  

If you do not plan to drive your own car, renting one will be most effective for your time and budget. Or, you can get to the area by taking a train from Chicago’s Union Station to Mendota Amtrak Station and hailing a 30-minute cab to the park. A huge draw to Starved Rock is its easy-to-access features . Many of Starved Rock’s most famous waterfalls provide drive-up parking lots, so the walk to the waterfall is only a couple of minutes.

Alternatively, consider parking at the main visitor center lot and hiking to your waterfalls of choice. Waterfalls at Starved Rock flow after rainfall or snow melt, so be mindful that these will not be here year-round. The longest-lasting waterfalls are at St. Louis Canyon and La Salle Canyon.

Other top features of the park include hiking, boat tours, and camping . And perhaps the park’s biggest draw—the entrance is free !

Consider staying in the highly-rated Starved Rock Lodge for either cabin or hotel room options. Or search for other nearby family-friendly lodging options here .

Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 5 hours

Recommended by: Melissa of HelloWanderlustFamily.com

Located in southern Illinois, Shawnee National Forest is about a 5-hour drive from Chicago, making it an easy and accessible destination for families. 

One of the best things about Shawnee National Forest is its variety of activities , such as hiking, fishing, ziplining, or just relaxing in nature—it offers something for everyone.  Two must-see attractions are Cave in Rock and Little Grand Canyon Trail. Cave in Rock is a 55-foot-wide cave formed over thousands of years by the forces of the Ohio River and the wind, and a highlight of Little Grand Canyon Trail is you get to hike in and around a series of waterfalls that cascade down the rocky cliffs. 

When looking for a place to stay, consider the location of your planned activities . Shawnee National Forest is huge, with some attractions only 15 minutes away, while others may take an hour to reach. Because of this, choose accommodation closer to the area where most of your activities will be. One excellent lodging option for families is Home2 Suites in Carbondale , which not only provides larger room sizes and access to a pool but is in a city that offers plenty of amenities. Or search for more Carbondale lodging options here . Alternatively, for a more unique and memorable experience, consider staying at the Timber Ridge Outpost & Cabins , which offers cozy treehouses perfect for families seeking a one-of-a-kind stay.

Gurnee, Illinois

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Recommended by: Lisa of PlanningAway.com

If you are looking for a fun short road trip from Chicago, Gurnee Illinois is just the place! There are lots of fun things to do in Gurnee, Illinois !  Gurnee is about 45 minutes north of the city. Home to Six Flags Great America and Great Wolf Lodge , it is the perfect place to spend a fun weekend.   

Six Flags Great America is the highlight of a trip to Gurnee. There are over 30 roller coasters and rides to explore. There is also a water park inside Six Flags called Hurricane Harbor. Six Flags has great shows and entertainment options for all ages.  

To relax after a fun day at Six Flags, stay nearby at Great Wolf Lodge , where you can enjoy many activities, including an indoor water park, Magiquest game, rock climbing, ropes course, arcade, bowling, and mini golf.  Kids will also love character meet and greets, dance parties, and many other fun activities by Great Wolf Lodge, and included in your stay. The lodge is perfect for kids under the age of 12 . 

There are some places to eat inside Great Wolf Lodge, but if you want to really experience Gurnee, you will want to venture out and try some local favorites. Kaiser Pizza is delicious, and Oberweis Ice Cream is a must. Gurnee Mills shopping and outlet mall is a good stop for families too. Shop at the Bass Pro, eat at the Rainforest Cafe, and enjoy many more fun shopping options. If you do not want to stay overnight—Gurnee also makes for a great day trip from Chicago.

Missouri: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Saint louis, missouri.

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4 hours 30 minutes

Recommended by: Lynli Roman of Wanderbig.com

With less than five hours between cities, Saint Louis is a family getaway that feels far away but is easy to drive from Chicago in a half-day! Book a room at the railroad depot turned hotel , Union Station , and spend your time exploring the many family-focused activities that Saint Louis offers.  First, take your family to explore the City Museum . Described as “weirdly wonderful,” the City Museum is the crown jewel of family-friendly fun in St Louis. Housed in an old shoe factory, the City Museum boasts a huge network of slides, tunnels, and caves for all ages. All ages love the rooftop, where you can ride the Ferris wheel or climb a giant praying mantis for perfect views of the St Louis skyline. 

Next, wander through Soulard Farmers Market and taste your way through the city. The Soulard Farmers Market is one of the oldest markets in the United States, with roots dating back to 1779! Most alive during the weekends, you’ll find 147 stalls filled with unique vendors selling everything from local Missouri produce to handmade gifts. Nearby grounds include a playground and plenty of space for an impromptu picnic with your market spoils. 

No family road trip to St Louis is complete without a trip to Forest Park— one of the nation’s largest and most-visited urban parks. The park is home to the Saint Louis Art Museum , the Saint Louis Science Center , the Missouri History Museum , an outdoor theater, and the Saint Louis Zoo . Entrance fees vary, but many amenities, including general admission to the zoo, are free!

Want to see more St. Louis lodging options ? Search for other family-friendly accommodation options here .

Ohio: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

From city trips to world-class amusement parks to under-the-radar natural gems, Ohio regularly delights visitors , and especially families, with all it offers as a vacation destination.

Four Buckeye State destinations to consider for your next road trip include:

• Cincinnati, OH
• Cleveland, OH
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH
• Cedar Point Amusement Park, OH

Cincinnati, Ohio

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4.5 to 4.75 hours

Recommended by: Linda of MidwestExplored.com

If you’re looking for one of the best family road trips near Chicago—you can’t beat Cincinnati, Ohio.  After all, this underrated city is located just four and a half hours, or 297 miles, away from Chicago and is a well-priced, family-friendly destination brimming over with fun Cincinnati things to do that everyone will love.

So, start your visit with a trip to The Cincinnati Art Museum , founded in 1881, and in the Eden Park area.  Not only is the museum free to visit, but there are over 67,000 works that cover 6,000 years, ensuring there is something for everyone at this incredible institution. 

Next, grab a picnic lunch and explore Ault Park , which spans an impressive 220 acres of land and is the city’s fourth-largest park, and features a wealth of picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking trails that will help keep energetic kids busy. Finally, learn more about the Underground Railroad at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center before taking in the electric hue of the cool signs on display at the American Sign Museum.

Then, when you’re ready to call it a day, return to your room at the Hyatt Regency Cincinnati , where you can take advantage of their family-friendly suites, indoor pool and catch up on laundry at their on-site facility. Or search for more Cincinnati lodging options here .

Cleveland, Ohio

A visit to Cleveland truly offers the best of all worlds—thrills at nearby Cedar Point Amusement Park (1-hour drive), cultural chills, and hills made for hiking at Cuyahoga Valley National Park (30-minute drive).  Stay in town at a place like centrally located and highly-rated Roost Cleveland , which offers fully furnished apartments with hotel-like perks,  and use it as a base to explore the area. 

The city, on the shores of Lake Erie, is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the Cleveland Orchestra—great destinations and cultural institutions for families to experience and explore.  And when your crew gets hungry, head to the historic West Side Market to grab a bite from local food vendors and souvenir shop for artisanal products.

For families with outdoor enthusiasts, pair a visit to Cleveland with a day trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park , a 30-minute drive away, where you can hike one of many highly rated wooded or waterfall trails.

Want to see more Cleveland lodging options ? Search for other family-friendly accommodation options here .

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Another must-see destination for families visiting Ohio is Cuyahoga Valley National Park .  Located just outside Cleveland (a 30-minute drive), this park offers over 33,000 acres of natural beauty and outdoor activities. 

Families can explore the park’s hiking trails , go fishing or kayaking on the Cuyahoga River, or even take a scenic train ride.  With its pretty waterfalls, wooded paths, and diverse wildlife, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a perfect destination for families looking to get outside, get moving, and enjoy the best of what nature and national parks offer.  

If you do not plan on staying in Cleveland, consider booking rental lodging in tiny and historic Peninsula Village , a private island of town surrounded by Cuyahoga Valley National Park.  Top rental picks in Peninsula, OH, for families include a few three and four-bedroom homes that can sleep up to ten. Search “Peninsula, OH” on VRBO  to find them.

Cedar Point Amusement Park, Ohio

Approximate drive time from Chicago: 4.5 hours

Cedar Point Amusement Park , located on a peninsula extending into Lake Erie near Sandusky, Ohio, is surrounded by water and overflowing with family-style fun. 

Known as the “ Roller Coaster Capital of the World ” with over 70 rides, including 18 roller coasters—thrill-seeking families will love it. The park also features a water park, live entertainment, and plenty of family-friendly dining.  Take at least two days to enjoy all it has to offer.

Stay on-site at one of the Cedar Point resorts like the beachfront Hotel Breakers , Lighthouse Point offering cottages and campgrounds, Castaway Bay with an indoor water park, or the budget-friendly Cedar Points Express Hotel .

Kentucky: Top Road Trips Within 5-Hours of Chicago

Louisville, ky.

Need a reason to visit Louisville, KY? How about six? Your family will love visiting the Louisville Zoo or strolling along Waterfront Park facing the Ohio River and adjacent to downtown Louisville, stopping to play in playgrounds or cool down in hot summers at the splash park. 

While in the area, catch a ride on a riverboat like the Belle of Louisville , which offers several different types of cruises, including historic narrated ones to picnic lunch cruises . Or your whole crew might love the Hometown Music Kids Cruise , designed especially for families.

Kids and parents who love baseball—or love to see how things how are made—will enjoy a visit to the Louisville Slugger Museum & Factory , conveniently located downtown. Your tickets give you access to the museum and a tour of the factory—kids even get a free mini-bat at the end of the tour.

Need an indoor day activity? Explore the Mega Cavern , a former limestone quarry, now an underground adventure park offering ziplining, ropes courses, and a bike park, just a 15-minute drive from downtown and near the Zoo.  Or visit the downtown Kentucky Science Center , where your kids can engage with exhibits about the human body and outer space.

For places to stay, The Grady Hotel and Homewood Suites by Hilton Louisville Downtown are great choices. Both hotels are centrally located downtown and highly rated. Or search for more Louisville lodging options here . 

Related Reading

For traveling families, check out my related articles below for more trip ideas and tips that will help smooth your travels and get out the door with less hassle.

• Need An Itinerary For A Spring Trip To Europe? Here Are 25 Amazing Ideas
• 31 Warm Winter Break Vacation Ideas Your Family Will Love
• Enjoy the Ride: 12 Tips for Better Family Road Trips
• 15 Tips on How to Raise the Bar on Rental Cars
• Pack Faster & Better With This Universal Printable Packing List
• 25 Expert Packing Tips to Help You Travel Better
• Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack

Additional Trip Planning Resources

To further help you with travel planning, I share my go-to resources for every trip below. 

Google Flights. My first research stop for affordable flights for every trip. Learn why here . 

Google Hotels . Use its “ Where to stay ” button to discover the best neighborhoods to base your visit.

Booking.com. For hotel and rental bookings, I appreciate its flexible cancellation, candid user reviews, discounts, loyalty program, and easy-to-use interface.

Viator , Get Your Guide , & Airbnb Experiences . Quickly find and book highly-rated tours and activities on these sites.

Google Travel Things to Do & Google Maps . Find more things to do in your destination on Google Travel, then record where you want to visit on a custom Google Maps list. 

AllTrails . Love to hike? Me too. I religiously use AllTrails to discover hiking and biking trails and download its offline maps to manage my hikes.

Guide Along . 5-star self-guided audio tours that are GPS-compatible for US road trips and national parks. We loved the Glacier National Park tour .

Insure My Trip. I never travel internationally without trip insurance. Learn why here . My preferred place to shop and compare policies is InsureMyTrip.com . 

Plus, check out the 15 travel apps I use on trips, my preferred guidebooks , and my free customizable travel itinerary template , downloadable in four file formats.

About the author:  Janice Moskoff is a travel writer and blogger who loves hiking, exploring the world, and reading. She writes to inspire travel-loving families, adult friends, and couples on her blog,  Gather and Go Travel . Check out  her bio , learn how she became  a blogger , and discover how to  work with her . Sign up for her monthly  Discovery Newsletter  to get her latest travel recommendations and  how-to’s .

Love to travel? Sign up for m y monthly Gather & Go Travel Discovery Newsletter and get a free trip budget calculator .

Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use. And the income goes to keeping the site community-supported and ads minimal.

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• Weekend Getaways

10 Weekend Getaways Within 5 Hours of Las Vegas

From historic mining towns and beachside getaways to beautiful national parks, these are the best places to escape the city this spring..

Published on 4/21/2023 at 1:12 PM

Las Vegas is more exciting than ever , but spring is a great time to hit the road and leave the bright lights of Sin City behind for a weekend. Driving through the desert has its charm, but if Vegas has taught us anything, it's this: Convenience is everything. So plan ahead and maximize your time by visiting the hottest and, in a few cases, most overlooked travel destinations within a five-hour drive of Las Vegas. Between historic mining towns, beachside getaways, and beautiful national parks, you've got endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation in the Southwest.

Ely, Nevada

Drive: 3 hours, 45 minutes

Nevada is one of the nation's largest and least populated states, with miles of wide open spaces to explore. And less than four hours north of Las Vegas, Ely sits on the Eastern edge of Highway 50, famously dubbed the "loneliest road in America" by Life Magazine . And while Ely is a welcome splash of civilization in the middle of nowhere, it's built on an Old West identity that contrasts sharply with the bright lights of bigger cities like Vegas and Reno.

Surrounded by mountains, downtown Ely has a timeless collection of shops, saloons, and restaurants, including the Cellblock Steakhouse , where you can have dinner behind bars inside the Jailhouse Casino. Ely also has subtle devotion to the arts, from its collection of galleries and street murals to events like June's Schellraiser Music Festival , featuring a diverse alternative and punk rock lineup. The Renaissance Village is a collection of small homes, formerly used by miners but restored to celebrate art and history, effectively operating as nearly a dozen mini-museums.

The Northern Nevada Railway Museum is one of the best-preserved historic rail sites in the United States, with 60 buildings on more than 50 acres. Take a vintage train ride, powered by a steam locomotive, through mountains, canyons, and tunnels to the Ruth Copper Mining District.

Ely is a short drive from Great Basin National Park , home to Wheeler Peak (the second-tallest mountain in Nevada), an amphitheater for stargazing, and the Lehman Caves, which host guided tours to marvel at stalactites and other underground rock formations. It's one of the least visited and most quiet national parks in the United States. Detour to Ward Charcoal Ovens State Historic Park , named after six towering beehive-shaped charcoal ovens that once processed silver and were sometimes used as hideouts for bandits.

Stay: The best accommodations are at the historic Hotel Nevada , the tallest building in the state when it opened in 1929, and the Prospector , a quirky, contemporary retreat with playful lobby decorations and a pet-friendly casino. La Quinta Inn is one of the more modern hotels in town, with complimentary breakfast included.

St. George, Utah

Drive: 2 hours, 15 minutes

St. George, already the largest city in Southern Utah, just keeps growing its reputation as a worthy vacation destination . The weather isn't much different from Vegas–and whether that's good or bad is up to you–but you are closer to a wider variety of outdoor adventures. St. George is best known as the gateway to Zion National Park , a ridiculously photogenic collection of sandstone cliffs, rivers, and slot canyons with some of the most rewarding hikes in the Western United States. The city is even closer to four distinctly different state parks: Explore Snow Canyon (hikable rock formations), Sand Hollow (a reservoir surrounded by red sand), Gunlock (waterfalls and rock formations), and Quail Creek (a remote beach with trees creeping out of the water). Bring the kids to the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site , built on a farm where dino tracks were discovered.

Downtown St. George is an engaging mix of art, culture and history. The city's Mormon heritage can be explored with visits to the newly renovated St. George Utah Temple, Brigham Young Winter Home, and Ancestor Square, a collection of historic brick structures that now include restaurants like George's Corner , Cafe Feelove , and the stellar Painted Pony with food prepared with local ingredients in a rustic fine dining environment. Utah's drinking laws are notoriously strict, but have loosened a bit in recent years, so grab a cocktail at Spiritual Parlor or a pint of beer at Station II , an old firehouse that's now a taproom.

The local art scene is strong, whether exploring the sculptures throughout downtown or watching a traveling Broadway show at Tuacahn Amphitheater with an outdoor stage surrounded by desert scenery. Take the time to drive out to Kayenta , an art community with galleries, food, and live music in a remote area.

Stay: The Advenire , a 60-room boutique hotel, is easily the best place to spend the night in St. George. It has a great location across from Ancestor Square, an excellent lobby cocktail bar and restaurant, and large soaking tubs on rooftop decks. Red Mountain Resort thrives on the energy of the great outdoors with a focus on health and wellness near Sand Hollow State Park, while Inn on the Cliff lives up to its name with a perch overlooking the St. George valley.

Laughlin, Nevada

Drive: 1 hour, 30 minutes

If Las Vegas feels too crowded and corporate these days, Laughlin makes for a nice alternative . The casino town is about 100 miles south of Sin City, sitting comfortably along the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona. Like Vegas, Laughlin has shows, slot machines, and buffets –all at a fraction of the price. The Laughlin Event Center is an easy walk from the hotels along the river, featuring a spring lineup heavy on country (Dierks Bentley, Brooks & Dunn) and classic rock (Journey, Lynyrd Skynyrd).

Take advantage of the river. Travel between the casinos on water taxis, zip around on a Jet Ski, and unwind on a sunset dinner cruise while the casino lights reflect off the water. Spend more time outdoors exploring petroglyphs at Grapevine Canyon or on the beach at Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area . ATVs are popular too. Take a ride on one through the desert to Oatman, an old mining town. Hang around the saloons or feed alfalfa grass to the burros that famously roam Main Street.

Stay: Don Laughlin's Riverside Resort is the one that started at all, evolving from a motel in 1966 to a property with more than 1,400 rooms today. The on-site car museum is a nice bonus. Other top resorts along the river include the Golden Nugget , which has a boutique Old West feel with just 60 rooms, and Harrah's , farther down the river with a private beach.

Flagstaff, Arizona

Drive: 4 hours

Unlike Vegas, Flagstaff has four real seasons. Between the ski slopes at the Snowbowl resort and the desert rock of Walnut Canyon National Monument , you can sometimes experience all of them in one day. The city is also home to Northern Arizona University and the college town feel is reinforced with a slew of breweries, independent restaurants, and art galleries. Just wander the walkable downtown district and see what catches your attention.

The Lowell Observatory is famous for discovering Pluto (and yes, Flagstaff collectively agrees it's still a planet) and mapped the surface of the moon for the Apollo 11 astronauts. Flagstaff takes pride in its lunar legacy and has light restrictions in place to maximize stargazing.

The scenic south rim of Grand Canyon National Park is just a 45-minute drive north. You can also explore Sunset Crater , a volcano that erupted about a thousand years ago, leaving behind molten lava that's now preserved as hikeable hardened black rock.

Stay: The historic Hotel Monte Vista has a distinctive neon marquee and is said to be the most haunted hotel in Flagstaff. The Residence Inn by Marriott is more modern and luxurious with a similar, convenient downtown location. Spend the night surrounded by nature at the Little America Hotel inside the private 500-acre Ponderosa Pine Forest.

Laguna Beach, California

Driving from Vegas to Los Angeles is an experience all by itself . However, if you’re willing to navigate SoCal's complicated highway system, you can bypass the city proper and head directly to Laguna Beach. The Orange County community has more hotels per square inch than anywhere else in the state, balancing a knack for oceanfront hospitality with a preference for art and the eclectic

The rocky shoreline is gorgeous, spanning seven miles with the bright blue water of the Pacific Ocean feeding into tide pools and sea caves while bouncing off cliffs and other rugged rock formations. Skip Main Beach in favor of smaller, more secluded options like Thousand Steps Beach (accessible by a long staircase), Crescent Bay Beach, and Victoria Beach, where an abandoned pirate tower is a popular backdrop for photos. Purists may complain about the excessive presence of hotels, but book an oceanview suite and spare yourself the hassle of competing for parking on the Pacific Coast Highway.

The community is easy to navigate in the beachside tourist areas. Check out the Sandpiper Lounge , a dive bar with live music that's been a fixture in the Laguna Beach nightlife scene since 1942, or The Deck , a restaurant with a spacious patio overlooking the Pacific.

Laguna Beach also boasts more than 100 art galleries and studios. A few (like Richard MacDonald and Vladimir Kush ) also have a presence in Vegas. The Laguna Art Museum , however, is the only museum dedicated exclusively to California artists with a permanent exhibit representing Laguna Beach. The waterfront location is close to the outdoor pathways in Heisler Park.

Stay: Big spenders love the upscale Surf and Sand Resort , home to Splashes Restaurants, where guests can dine alongside windows that open wide to the Pacific Ocean. Capri Laguna isn't ultra-luxurious, but has a fantastic location on the beach with reasonable prices for the area. The Inn at Laguna Beach has a beach bungalow vibe and balconies overlooking the main beach.

Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Drive: 2 hours, 30 minutes

Lake Havasu City is often called the Jet Ski Capital of the World, so it's no surprise this engaging Arizona community is a top spring break destination. Most of the top hotels are near the Bridgewater Channel, which flows underneath the London Bridge, which formerly spanned the River Thames and was brought over to the States and rebuilt brick by brick. The channel feeds out to Lake Havasu, which interrupts the Colorado River while offering endless opportunities for boating and water sports. The coastline is full of secluded beaches and coves, but Lake Havasu State Park offers the most immediate access and easy parking for fun in the sun.

The nightlife scene isn't as indulgent or over-the-top as the nightclubs in Vegas , but you'll still have fun dancing at Kokomo or line-dancing to country music at the Flying X Saloon . However, the best parties are often on the water in Copper Canyon, when boats crowd together and swimmers go rock jumping. Overall, Lake Havasu thrives with an easy, breezy mentality with affordable bars, restaurants, and hotels. Expect business to pick up in late April with the Desert Storm Poker Run , the largest boating run and parade in the Western United States.

Stay: The Nautical has a timeless art deco design with suites that open up to a lawn and beach on Thompson Bay. Heat has a more contemporary vibe and rooftop bar. The London Bridge Resort has large suites with full kitchens.

Palm Springs, California

Palm Springs is more than golf courses and retirement homes. It represents a more carefree, inland version of the SoCal lifestyle that's rich in culture, art, and desert scenery. Spring is one of the best times of year to visit , not just for the mild weather, but proximity to big events like the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival (back with another eclectic lineup this year) and Desert X , a collection of outdoor art installations that returns every two years. You're in luck. It's back right now and currently running through May 7.

Get familiar with downtown with the weekly Thursday night Palm Springs VillageFest and make sure to check out the boutiques and art galleries in the Uptown Design District and Movie Colony, a historic neighborhood that was once a favorite of celebrities during Hollywood's Golden Age. Palm Springs has one of the most prominent LGBTQ communities in the world with numerous gay-friendly bars and drag shows throughout the city with an especially strong presence along Arenas Road.

The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway elevates passengers 2.5 miles on the world's largest rotating tram car, from the Sonoran Desert to the alpine wilderness of Mount San Jacinto State Park. Feast on dry-aged steaks while soaking in the views at Peaks Restaurant . The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in nearby Palm Desert is home to more than 500 animals in comfortable environments with a mission of conservation. There are three hiking trails throughout the nature preserve.

Stay: In recent months, Palm Springs welcomed the openings of Sensei Porcupine Creek (a private ranch transformed into a wellness retreat in the Santa Rosa Mountains), Blackhaus (16 poolside bungalows that operate like a hybrid between a traditional hotel and an Airbnb-style rental), and a newly renovated Azure Sky (originally built in the 1950s, but now a stylish adults-only escape). Hotels in neighboring Desert Hot Springs like Two Bunch Palms and the minimalist Hope Springs motel have pools filled with mineral-rich spring water. A few resorts are clothing optional. Begin with Tuscany Manor and continue your Google search from there.

Death Valley, California

Drive: 2 hours

Don't let the name fool you. Death Valley is actually quite beautiful, especially when visiting during the relatively mild spring season before the scorching summer heat returns. Explore the national park and you'll come across otherworldly rock formations, vast desert landscapes, and Badwater Basin, a salt flat that marks the lowest point in North America. You'll also want to check out the Artists Drive Scenic Loop (named after the pastel-like color patterns in the rock), the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, and the sweeping lookout points at Dante's View or Zabriskie Point.

The season is prime time for wildflowers, which should be more noticeable this year after an unusually wet winter. A Death Valley superbloom isn't in the forecast for 2023, but the rangers at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center will gladly point you in the right direction to see the most colorful flowers.

The outskirts of Death Valley National Park provide their own unique attractions, from the hot springs and craft beer of Tecopa to the spooky remnants of Rhyolite , a creepy Nevada ghost town near the old mining hub of Beatty.

Stay: The Inn at Death Valley provides the most luxurious resort accommodations in the town. The property dates back to 1927, but has seen extensive renovations over the years with the addition of 80 casitas (each with its own golf cart for getting around). The Ranch at Death Valley , about a mile away near the visitor's center, is a more casual sister property with the world's lowest-elevation golf course and a charming Last Kind Words Saloon . Book a room at one of the newer cottages. Both options have spring-fed swimming pools.

Lake Powell, Arizona

Drive: 4 hours, 30 minutes

Drought worries aside, the reservoir and its surrounding community continue to be a popular vacation destination. Spring is when the area starts to come alive with kayaking, paddleboarding, and boat tours, including a nice sunset dinner cruise down-lake at the Wahweap Marina. You can also tour Glen Canyon Dam , the towering concrete structure responsible for creating the lake or snap some pics of the landmark from a scenic overlook.

Most of the action, though, is in Page, where the dining options are quaint, but match the casual spirit of the remote vacation town. Try the fried chicken at BirdHouse or sit down and enjoy the scenery at Rimview Terrace , the closest thing in the area to a fine dining restaurant.

South of the lake, Horseshoe Bend is named after the manner in which the Colorado River twists and turns around a sandstone cliff. You'll pay to park, then take a short paved hike to the fenced-in overlook to soak in the beauty of the landmark. The photos are especially impressive at sunrise. Antelope Canyon is another must-see outdoor attraction, but is on tribal land and only accessible via an official Navajo Nation tour (like this one ). The lower canyon is a more challenging hike, while the upper canyon is a photographer's dream with beams of light that filter through the cracks of the red, orange, and brown slot canyons.

Stay: Lake Powell Resort is on the Wahweap Marina and the only hotel within the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. The on-site restaurant has great views; Just remember to request a space facing the water. Page has plenty of familiar hotel and motel chains. Go with Home2Suites by Hilton , which is modern in design, a short walk from the Glen Canyon Dam overlook, and a close drive to the Horseshoe Bend overlook.

Sedona, Arizona

If you can handle an overabundance of shops selling crystals, you'll love the easy, but eccentric character of Sedona, where art and adventure come together within gorgeous desert landscapes. Just driving around town is a spectacle, surrounded by bright pink and red sandstone buttes and cliffs. Signs are quick to identify where to pull over for trailheads and overlooks, including Bell Rock, believed to be one of four vortexes in the area with especially strong energy. The Chapel of the Holy Cross , a striking sight built into the rocky terrain, is another popular stop.

Travel south of Sedona on the Red Rock Scenic Byway and head to Montezuma Castle National Monument , towering cliffside dwellings carved into limestone that were home to indigenous tribes more than 700 years ago. The federally protected land carries over to Montezuma Well , a surprisingly large sinkhole filled by a natural spring with additional dwellings near the rim.

You're also just east of Arizona's wine-rich Verde Valley , a convenient detour when driving back home to Vegas. Stop at Jerome (an Old West mining town that hasn't changed much over the years), Cottonwood (a timeless collection of businesses and tasting rooms), and Tuzigoot National Monument , a hilltop of Pueblo ruins and spectacular valley views.

Stay: Sedona is known for its variety of bed-and-breakfast accommodations. However, it's hard to beat L'Auberge de Sedona , a luxurious retreat on Oak Creek with a fantastic restaurant and someone always ready to hand you a glass of wine. The Wilde is a more stylish, contemporary option in the heart of the city, while the Amara is a boutique hotel with a layout that embraces the outdoor environment.

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More From Forbes

15 affordable places to travel in 2024, ranked in a new report.

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Want to take an affordable vacation in 2024? You’ve come to the right place. Although travel costs are on the rise this year ( up 3.1% ), it’s still possible to save money in 2024—if you know where to go.

A new travel report from the U.K.’s Post Office —a British-based mail and financial services company — has just unveiled some of the most budget-friendly destinations for 2024. And although the annual report is aimed at U.K. travelers, it’s a helpful list for Americans, too.

By analyzing currency strengths, local prices and essential tourist expenses in 40 popular vacation destinations around the globe, the Holiday Money Report 2024 highlights some of the cheapest places to travel. The report ranks the destinations based on a barometer that takes the local price of eight tourist essentials into consideration—including coffee, beer, cola, wine, water, sunscreen, insect repellent and a three-course meal. And while the report doesn’t include factors like hotels and airfare, it helps give a good sense of where your dollars will stretch the furthest.

This is the 18th year that the Post Office has done this report. And the good news: Prices have fallen since last year in 25 spots on the list. (A note that the original report included prices in pounds sterling, which have been converted into dollars here, using the exchange rate on the date of publication of 1.26.)

An aerial view of Hoi An, Vietnam, the most affordable destination to travel in 2024, according to a ... [+] new report.

Leading the list as the cheapest place to travel right now is Hoi An, Vietnam. According to the Post Office report, a total estimated cost of just $64.51 a day for the travel essentials makes this charming gem the ultimate bang-for-your-buck destination that won’t break the bank. Located on the central coast of Vietnam, Hoi An entices visitors with its UNESCO -recognized Ancient Town, a picturesque spot where lantern-lit streets lead to quaint shops and street food stalls. It is also convenient to stunning white-sand beaches—some of the most beautiful in Asia .

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024.

Following closely behind in the second spot is Cape Town, South Africa, where an outlay of $68.48 a day for the essentials promises an unforgettable experience against the backdrop of Table Mountain and pristine coastlines. Here, you can dive into the vibrant culture and indulge in world-class dining (a three-course meal for two people averages less than $44.140) without denting your travel fund.

The coastline of Mombasa, Kenya, with a pair of camels on Diani Beach.

Mombasa, Kenya takes the third spot on the list. This beachfront destination on the east coast of Africa beckons with its white-sand shores, vibrant markets and rich Swahili heritage, offering an immersive experience for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural exploration.

In a surprising twist, Tokyo, Japan—a bustling metropolis where tradition meets modernity—secures the fourth spot on the list. According to the Post Office, just $74.43 a day is needed for essential tourist purchases. Helping drive this ranking was the cost of a glass of wine (an average of only $4.56) and a bottle of water (averaging 77¢).

The cliffs of the Algarve overlooking the Atlantic Ocean above the Benagil cave in Lagoa, Portug.a

Rounding out the top five is the Algarve in Portugal, which combines culture, history and natural beauty at a fraction of the cost compared to previous years. With its sun-drenched beaches, charming villages and delectable seafood, the Algarve offers an idyllic escape for travelers seeking an affordable yet enriching getaway.

Here are top 15 best-value spots from the 2024 report. You can also download the full Worldwide Holiday Costs Barometer for more locations and more details.

Overlooking a pristine beach in Hoi An, Vietnam.

• Hoi An, Vietnam - $64.51
• Cape Town, South Africa - $68.48
• Mombasa, Kenya - $69.96
• Tokyo, Japan - $74.43
• Algarve, Portugal - $75.33
• Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt - $77.36
• Sunny Beach, Bulgaria - $79.73
• Kuta, Bali, Indonesia - $79.79
• Marmaris, Turkey - $83.27
• Paphos, Cyprus - $92.49
• Penang, Malaysia - $93.98
• Phuket, Thailand - $97.97
• Delhi, India - $98.05
• Costa del Sol, Spain - $102.67
• Montego Bay, Jamaica - $109.76

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Total solar eclipse April 8, 2024 facts: Path, time and the best places to view

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality.

Scroll down to see the list of U.S. cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be visible, the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com .

"Eclipse Across America," will air live Monday, April 8, beginning at 2 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+ and Hulu as well as network social media platforms.

On April 8, 2024, a historic total solar eclipse will cast a shadow over parts of the United States, prompting a mass travel event to the path of totality -- from Texas to Maine and several states and cities in between.

A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and, for a short time, completely blocks the face of the sun, according to NASA .

The track of the moon's shadow across Earth's surface is called the path of totality, and to witness the April 8 total solar eclipse, viewers must be within the 115-mile-wide path. To discover when to see the solar eclipse in totality or the partial eclipse in locations across the U.S. outside of the path, check out NASA's Eclipse Explorer tool .

Eclipse travel

In the U.S., 31 million people already live inside the path of totality, bringing the celestial phenomenon to their doorsteps, Michael Zeiler, expert solar eclipse cartographer at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told ABC News.

MORE: Eclipse glasses: What to know to keep your eyes safe

But for individuals outside of the path, investing time and money are needed to experience the event in totality.

Eclipse chasers, or umbraphiles, are individuals who will do almost anything, and travel almost anywhere, to see totality, according to the American Astronomical Society .

"There's a very active community of solar eclipse chasers and we will go to any reasonable lengths to see solar eclipses anywhere in the world," Zeiler said. "All of us are united in pursuing the unimaginable beauty of a total solar eclipse."

MORE: The surprising reason why a Texas county issued a disaster declaration ahead of April total solar eclipse

Bringing together both eclipse experts and novice sky watchers, the total solar eclipse on April 8 is projected to be the U.S.'s largest mass travel event in 2024, according to Zeiler, who likened it to "50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation."

"When you look at the number of people expected to come to the path of totality for the solar eclipse, we estimate those numbers are roughly the equivalent of 50 simultaneous Super Bowls across the nation, from Texas to Maine," he said.

Eclipse map, path of totality

In the U.S., the path of totality begins in Texas and will travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse, according to NASA.

Best times, places to view eclipse

Below is a list of some American cities where the April 8 total solar eclipse will be most visible -- pending weather forecasts -- the duration of the eclipse in those locations and what time totality will begin, according to GreatAmericanEclipse.com.

• Eagle Pass, Texas, 1:27 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Uvalde, Texas, 1:29 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 16 seconds
• Kerrville, Texas, 1:32 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 23 seconds
• Austin, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Killeen, Texas, 1:36 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 17 seconds
• Fort Worth, Texas, 1:40 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 34 seconds
• Dallas 1:40 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 47 seconds
• Little Rock, Arkansas, 1:51 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 33 seconds
• Jonesboro, Arkansas, 1:55 p.m. CDT: 2 minutes, 24 seconds
• Poplar Bluff, Arkansas, 1:56 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 1:58 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 6 seconds
• Carbondale, Illinois, 1:59 p.m. CDT: 4 minutes, 8 seconds
• Mount Vernon, Illinois, 2:00 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Evansville, Indiana, 2:02 p.m. CDT: 3 minutes, 2 seconds
• Terre Haute, Indiana, 3:04 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 57 seconds
• Indianapolis 3:06 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 46 seconds
• Dayton, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 46 seconds
• Wapakoneta, Ohio, 3:09 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 55 seconds
• Toledo, Ohio, 3:12 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 54 seconds
• Cleveland 3:13 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 50 seconds

Pennsylvania

• Erie, Pennsylvania, 3:16 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 43 seconds
• Buffalo, New York, 3:18 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 45 seconds
• Rochester, New York, 3:20 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 40 seconds
• Syracuse, New York, 3:23 p.m. EDT: 1 minute, 26 seconds
• Burlington, Vermont, 3:26 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 14 seconds
• Island Falls, Maine, 3:31 p.m. EDT: 3 minutes, 20 seconds
• Presque Island, Maine, 3:32 p.m. EDT: 2 minutes, 47 seconds

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Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times and how much of the eclipse people could see across the U.S.

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:00 AM EDT / CBS News

A total solar eclipse  crossed North America Monday with parts of 15 U.S. states within the path of totality. Maps show  where and when astronomy fans could see the big event  as skies darkened in the middle of the day Monday, April 8.

The total eclipse first appeared along Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT, then traveled across a swath of the U.S., from Texas to Maine, and into Canada.

About 31.6 million people live in the path of totality , the area where the moon fully blocked out the sun , according to NASA. The path ranged between 108 and 122 miles wide. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path of totality.

Solar eclipse path of totality map for 2024

The total solar eclipse started over the Pacific Ocean, and the first location in continental North America that experienced totality was Mexico's Pacific Coast, around 11:07 a.m. PDT, according to NASA. From there, the path continued into Texas, crossing more than a dozen states before the eclipse enters Canada in southern Ontario. The eclipse exited continental North America at around 5:16 p.m. NDT from Newfoundland, Canada.

The path of totality included portions of the following states:

• Pennsylvania
• New Hampshire

Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse.

Several major cities across the U.S. were included in the eclipse's path of totality, while many others saw a partial eclipse. These were some of the best major cities for eclipse viewing — though the weather was a factor :

• San Antonio, Texas (partially under the path)
• Austin, Texas
• Waco, Texas
• Dallas, Texas
• Little Rock, Arkansas
• Indianapolis, Indiana
• Dayton, Ohio
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Buffalo, New York
• Rochester, New York
• Syracuse, New York
• Burlington, Vermont

Map of when the solar eclipse reached totality across its path

The eclipse began in the U.S. as a partial eclipse beginning at 12:06 p.m. CDT near Eagle Pass, Texas, before progressing to totality by about 1:27 p.m. CDT and then moving along its path to the northeast over the following few hours.

NASA shared times for several cities in the path of totality across the U.S. People could have also  checked their ZIP code on NASA's map  to see when the eclipse was to reach them if they were on, or near, the path of totality — or if they saw a partial eclipse instead.

How much of the eclipse did people see if they live outside the totality path?

While the April 8 eclipse covered a wide swath of the U.S., outside the path of totality observers may have spotted a partial eclipse, where the moon covers some, but not all, of the sun, according to NASA. The closer they were to the path of totality, the larger the portion of the sun that was hidden.

NASA allowed viewers to input a ZIP code and see how much of the sun was to be covered in their locations.

Could there be cloud cover be during the solar eclipse?

Some areas along the path of totality had a higher likelihood of cloud cover that could interfere with viewing the eclipse. Here is a map showing the historical trends in cloud cover this time of year. 

You could have checked the latest forecast for your location with our partners at The Weather Channel .

Where did the solar eclipse reach totality for the longest?

Eclipse viewers near Torreón, Mexico, got to experience totality for the longest. Totality there lasted 4 minutes, 28 seconds, according to NASA. 

Most places along the centerline of the path of totality saw a totality duration of between 3.5 and 4 minutes, according to NASA. Some places in the U.S. came close to the maximum; Kerrville, Texas, had a totality duration of 4 minutes, 24 seconds.

What is the path of totality for the 2044 solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Astronomy fans in the U.S. will have far fewer opportunities to see the 2044 eclipse they had on April 8. NASA has not yet made maps available for the 2044 eclipse but, according to The Planetary Society , the path of totality will only touch three states.

The 2024 eclipse will start in Greenland, pass over Canada and end as the sun sets in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota, according to the Planetary Society.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.