Fun Weekend Getaways:- We live in changing times. In fact, some of the most important scientists of today say that we are living in an extremely fragile and changing era, one that people have not ever seen. So what does that have to do with this Top 10 site? Well, what I’m getting at here is that we are all extremely stressed, even when we aren’t. And what helps beat that stress?
Well, there is nothing like spending time with the family. However, getting away for a week or two can seem virtually impossible. A better solution might be to take that fun weekend getaway.
Just one problem. Planning even a local getaway can be an added stressor. Where do you go? What do you do? Planning a fun weekend getaway can take a lot of research and time online. You have to figure out what interesting places are located within driving distance from home. I’m here for you though. I think this top 10 list of great fun getaways will help.
Fun Weekend Getaways
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a charming mountain town located in western North Carolina. It’s known for its vibrant arts scene, craft breweries, and stunning natural scenery. Here are some things you might want to check out during your visit:
- Biltmore Estate: This historic mansion is the largest privately owned home in the United States and is a must-see attraction in Asheville. You can tour the house and gardens, enjoy wine tastings at the on-site winery, and explore the surrounding estate grounds.
- Downtown Asheville: The downtown area of Asheville is full of unique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. You can stroll through the streets and take in the lively atmosphere while sampling local cuisine and craft beer.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: This scenic drive runs through the mountains near Asheville and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. There are plenty of hiking trails and picnic areas along the way if you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the fresh mountain air.
- River Arts District: This neighborhood along the French Broad River is home to over 200 artists’ studios and galleries. You can browse through paintings, pottery, jewelry, and other handmade items while chatting with local artists.
- Pisgah National Forest: This nearby national forest offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, camping, fishing, and mountain biking. You can also visit waterfalls and scenic overlooks throughout the forest.
2. Savannah, Georgia
Looking for fun weekend getaways? Savannah, Georgia is a beautiful and historic city located on the coast of Georgia that offers plenty of options for a memorable trip. It’s known for its charming streets lined with oak trees draped in Spanish moss, delicious Southern cuisine, and lively nightlife. Here are some things you might want to check out during your visit:
- Historic District: The historic district of Savannah is full of beautiful architecture and charming streets. You can take a walking tour or carriage ride to learn about the city’s history and see some of its most famous landmarks, such as the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist and Forsyth Park.
- River Street: This cobblestone street along the Savannah River is home to shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in restored cotton warehouses. You can enjoy live music and street performers while taking in views of the river.
- Bonaventure Cemetery: This historic cemetery is known for its beautiful sculptures and gravesites, including that of songwriter Johnny Mercer. You can take a guided tour or explore on your own.
- Tybee Island: This nearby barrier island offers miles of sandy beaches, as well as opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and dolphin watching. You can also visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum for panoramic views of the island.
- Food and Drink: Savannah is known for its delicious Southern cuisine, including dishes like shrimp and grits and fried chicken. You can also sample local craft beer at one of the city’s many breweries or enjoy a cocktail at a rooftop bar.
3. Austin, Texas
Austin, Texas is a fun weekend getaway destination located in central Texas. It’s known for its live music venues, delicious Tex-Mex food, and outdoor activities. Here are some things you might want to check out during your visit:
- Live Music: Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” and has plenty of venues where you can catch a show. You can visit famous spots like the Continental Club or explore up-and-coming artists at smaller venues.
- Food and Drink: Austin is famous for its Tex-Mex cuisine, including dishes like breakfast tacos and queso dip. You can also sample a local craft beer or visit one of the city’s many food trucks for a unique dining experience.
- Outdoor Activities: Austin has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and biking trails, swimming holes, and parks. You can also rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to explore Lady Bird Lake in the heart of the city.
- South Congress Avenue: This trendy street is full of unique shops, restaurants, and bars. You can browse through vintage clothing stores or enjoy a margarita on a patio while people-watching.
- State Capitol: The Texas State Capitol building is located in downtown Austin and offers free tours where you can learn about the state’s history and government.
4. Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is a beautiful region in California known for its vineyards, wineries, and delicious food. Here are some things to do and see in Napa Valley:
- Wine Tasting – Napa Valley is home to over 400 wineries, making it a wine lover’s paradise. Some popular wineries to visit include Domaine Carneros, Beringer Vineyards, and Chateau Montelena.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides – Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards for a unique perspective of the valley.
- Oxbow Public Market – This indoor market in downtown Napa features a variety of food vendors and artisanal products.
- Hiking – Bothe-Napa Valley State Park offers several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Spa Treatments – Relax at one of the many spas in the area, such as Indian Springs Resort & Spa or Solage.
- Olive Oil Tasting – Take a tour of one of the many olive oil producers in Napa Valley, such as Round Pond Estate or The Olive Press.
- Fine Dining – Napa Valley is home to many amazing restaurants, including The French Laundry, Ad Hoc, and Bouchon.
- Castello di Amorosa – This stunning castle winery is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Napa Valley. The castle was built using traditional medieval techniques and features a moat, drawbridge, and even a torture chamber.
- Napa Valley Wine Train – This historic train takes you on a scenic tour through Napa Valley while you enjoy gourmet food and wine.
- Art Galleries – Napa Valley has a thriving arts scene with many galleries to explore, such as the di Rosa Center for Contemporary Art and the Hess Collection Winery & Art Museum.
5. Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine is a beautiful coastal city with plenty of things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Portland:
- Visit the Portland Head Light: This historic lighthouse is located in Fort Williams Park and offers stunning views of the ocean. It’s a great spot for taking photos and enjoying a picnic.
- Explore the Old Port: This charming neighborhood is filled with cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and delicious restaurants. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon wandering around.
- Take a cruise: There are several companies that offer cruises around Casco Bay, where you can see lighthouses, islands, and even whales.
- Visit the Portland Museum of Art: This museum has a great collection of American art, including works by Winslow Homer and Andrew Wyeth.
- Walk or bike the Eastern Promenade: This scenic trail offers beautiful views of Casco Bay and is a great place for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.
- Check out the breweries: Portland has become known for its craft beer scene, with several breweries located in the city. Some popular ones include Allagash Brewing Company, Shipyard Brewing Company, and Rising Tide Brewing Company.
- Visit the Maine Historical Society: This museum offers exhibits on Maine’s history, including its maritime heritage and role in the Civil War.
6. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Certainly! Santa Fe, New Mexico is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Santa Fe:
- Visit the historic Santa Fe Plaza: This is the heart of the city and has been the center of community life for over 400 years. It’s surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- Explore the art galleries: Santa Fe is known for its vibrant art scene, with over 200 galleries in the city. Some popular ones include the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Native Arts, and the Museum of International Folk Art.
- Visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi: This beautiful cathedral was built in the late 1800s and features stunning stained glass windows and artwork.
- Take a hike: The surrounding mountains offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. Some popular trails include Atalaya Mountain Trail, Dale Ball Trail, and La Tierra Trails.
- Check out the food scene: Santa Fe has a diverse culinary scene, with plenty of delicious restaurants to choose from. Some popular ones include The Shed, Coyote Cafe, and Cafe Pasqual.
- Visit the Santa Fe Opera: This world-renowned opera company performs during the summer months in a stunning outdoor theater.
- Explore the historic Adobe architecture: Many buildings in Santa Fe are made of Adobe, giving the city a unique look and feel. Some notable examples include the Loretto Chapel, San Miguel Mission, and Palace of the Governors.
7. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Certainly! Lake Tahoe is a beautiful destination located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California. Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Lake Tahoe:
- Enjoy the beaches: Lake Tahoe has several beautiful beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. Some popular ones include Sand Harbor Beach, Kings Beach State Recreation Area, and Zephyr Cove Beach.
- Go hiking: The surrounding mountains offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and outdoor recreation. Some popular trails include Eagle Falls Trail, Mount Tallac Trail, and Rubicon Trail.
- Visit Emerald Bay State Park: This stunning park features a picturesque bay with an island and a historic mansion. You can hike to the bay or take a boat tour to see it up close.
- Take a scenic drive: The drive around Lake Tahoe is breathtaking, with stunning views of the lake and mountains. Some popular routes include the Tahoe Rim Trail, the Donner Pass Road, and the Carson Pass.
- Go skiing or snowboarding: Lake Tahoe is a popular winter destination with several ski resorts in the area. Some popular ones include Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows, Heavenly Ski Resort, and Northstar California Resort.
- Check out the casinos: South Lake Tahoe has several casinos where you can try your luck at gambling or enjoy live entertainment. Some popular ones include Harrah’s Lake Tahoe, MontBleu Resort Casino & Spa, and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
- Visit Vikingsholm Castle: This historic mansion was built in 1929 on the shore of Emerald Bay and features Scandinavian architecture and beautiful gardens.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions or if there’s anything else I can assist you with.
8. Charleston, South Carolina
Certainly! Charleston, South Carolina is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Charleston:
- Visit the historic district: This area is filled with beautiful historic homes, churches, and gardens. Some popular sites include Rainbow Row, the Battery, and the Nathaniel Russell House.
- Explore the plantations: Charleston has several historic plantations that offer tours and insights into the area’s history. Some popular ones include Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Boone Hall Plantation, and Middleton Place.
- Take a carriage ride: A horse-drawn carriage ride is a great way to see the city’s historic district and learn about its history.
- Visit Fort Sumter National Monument: This historic fort played a key role in the Civil War and offers tours and exhibits on its history.
- Check out the food scene: Charleston is known for its delicious cuisine, with plenty of restaurants offering Southern classics like shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and biscuits. Some popular ones include Husk, FIG, and Hominy Grill.
- Take a boat tour: There are several companies that offer boat tours of Charleston Harbor, where you can see historic sites like Fort Sumter and the USS Yorktown.
- Visit the Charleston City Market: This historic market offers a variety of goods from local artisans, including sweetgrass baskets, jewelry, and artwork.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions or if there’s anything else I can assist you with.
9. Sedona, Arizona
Sedona, Arizona is a beautiful destination known for its stunning red rock formations and spiritual energy. It’s also a great spot for a fun local getaway! Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Sedona:
- Visit Red Rock State Park: This park offers stunning views of the red rock formations and has several hiking trails to explore.
- Take a Jeep tour: There are several companies that offer Jeep tours of the red rock formations, where you can see some of the area’s most beautiful sights.
- Visit Cathedral Rock: This iconic rock formation is one of the most photographed spots in Sedona and is a popular spot for hiking and photography.
- Check out the art galleries: Sedona has a vibrant art scene, with several galleries featuring local artists. Some popular ones include Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, Hillside Sedona, and Sedona Arts Center.
- Go on a vortex tour: Sedona is known for its spiritual energy and many people believe that there are several vortexes in the area that have healing properties. There are several companies that offer vortex tours where you can learn more about this phenomenon.
- Visit Slide Rock State Park: This park features a natural water slide and swimming hole, making it a great spot for cooling off on a hot day.
- Take a hot air balloon ride: Seeing Sedona from above is truly breathtaking, and a hot air balloon ride is a fun way to do it.
10. Newport, Rhode Island
Certainly! Newport, Rhode Island is a charming coastal city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Here are some of the top attractions and activities in Newport:
- Visit the Newport Mansions: These historic mansions were built by wealthy families in the late 1800s and early 1900s and offer a glimpse into the area’s Gilded Age history. Some popular ones include The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms.
- Explore the Cliff Walk: This scenic trail runs along the coast and offers stunning views of the ocean and the mansions.
- Visit Fort Adams State Park: This historic fort played a key role in several wars and offers tours and exhibits on its history.
- Check out the beaches: Newport has several beautiful beaches where you can swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water sports. Some popular ones include Easton’s Beach, Second Beach, and Gooseberry Beach.
- Take a sailing tour: There are several companies that offer sailing tours of Newport Harbor, where you can see historic sites like Fort Adams and the Newport Bridge.
- Visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame: This museum features exhibits on the history of tennis and honors some of the sport’s greatest players.
- Explore Thames Street: This charming street is filled with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions or if there’s anything else I can assist you with.