With the weather warming up and summer just around the corner, we can’t help but dream of our next vacation. Whether you’re short on PTO or you’re just looking for a short getaway that doesn’t require a lot of planning, the U.S. is full of destinations perfect for a weekend-long getaway. From antique shopping to sipping on a cool cocktail or beer to hiking some of the most incredible scenery the country has to offer, there’s a vacation that fits every travel style and mood.
If you’re itching to jet off, but you’re not sure where to go, don’t worry. Hoken has you covered. We’re rounding up the best US getaways this summer (and helping you find a cheap hotel room for your stay, too).
When you want to get away and sip on some wine, there’s no better place than Napa Valley. Who wouldn’t want to spend their day wine tasting, snacking on charcuterie, and taking in the views of the rolling vineyards? There are over 400 wineries and tasting rooms to explore, so you’ll never run out of new spots to try. Oh, and did we mention that there’s even a wine train?
If you’re not looking to spend your weekend drinking, you can enjoy plenty of other activities. From hot springs you can soak in to enjoying one of the Michelin-star restaurants to visiting the Napa Art Walk, there are options for everyone.
New Orleans is known for its rowdy parties and bustling Bourbon Street, but the city is far more than that. While you can spend all of your time drinking and admiring the architecture of the French Quarter, you can also visit the National WWII Museum, shop around Magazine Street, talk a swan boat around City Park, and enjoy beignets at Cafe du Monde. And that’s just beginning to scratch the surface of what The Big Easy has to offer.
Known for its postcard-worthy parks, horse-drawn carriages, and cobblestone streets, a trip to Savannah is the perfect destination for those that want to experience true Southern culture. Though it may not be at the top of your list of travel destinations, once you see all of the boutique hotels, the incredible food scene, and the stunning scenery, you will want to book your flight ASAP. You don’t even need an itinerary. Just walk around one of the 22 picturesque squares–including Lafayette, Forsyth, and Monterey.
Speaking of the South, this list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Charleston. The city is home to countless beaches, museums, restaurants, and more, providing a myriad of opportunities for fun. That’s why it’s been listed as one of the best cities in the U.S. consistently by Travel+Leisure. Start your mornings off with Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit before getting a history lesson at Fort Sumner, the Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, or the Old Slave Mart Museum.
Rather spend your time eating, drinking, or shopping? King Street will quickly become one of your favorite spots. You’ll find antique shops, locally owned boutiques, a happening nightlife scene, fine dining restaurants, and everything in between.
Calling all nature lovers and beer drinkers–this one’s for you! One minute you can be exploring the Rocky Mountains and the next, you’ll find yourself sipping on a craft beer in one of the many breweries that the Denver houses. If you’re a music lover, we can’t recommend catching a show at Red Rocks Amphitheater enough. We could spend hours talking about all of the highlights of the city, but that would take us hours, so you’re just going to have to take our word on this one.
When most people think of the Pacific Northwest, they think of Portland or Seattle. But Spokane is a hidden gem that doesn’t get enough love. One walk down Riverfront Park, and you’ll probably never want to come home. But if that doesn’t convince you, visit Spokane Falls, the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture, and Latah Creek Winery–just to name a few.
If you would rather spend your time soaking up the beautiful Washington weather, Spokane also has plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities. Riverside State Park is one of the largest parks in Washington and is the ideal place to kayak, canoe, or fish. In the mood for a hike? Head over to Mount Spokane State Park, just an hour north of the city.
There’s something about running away to the mountains that is the epitome of relaxing. And Asheville is the perfect place to unwind and become one with nature. That’s why some of the best things to do in the city are to hike the Blue Ridge Mountains and explore some of the 200+ waterfalls across western North Carolina.
We know that not everyone is outdoorsy, though. And if you fall under that category, don’t fret. You can watch the sunset with a cocktail at Omni Grove Park Inn to see the incredible scenery, tour Biltmore Estate, eat your heart out in the city known as “Foodtopia,” or visit one of the distilleries for a beverage or two.
We know what you’re probably thinking. There are quite a few southern destinations on this list. But can you blame us? The east coast has arguably some of the country's most beautiful, entertaining travel spots. Daniel Island may only be less than a half an hour outside of Charleston, but it has its own long list of entertaining to-do’s. Hit the river for water sports, play a couple of rounds of golf, and just enjoy the stunning sunsets the island is known for.
Located south of Tampa, Sarasota is a beach lover’s paradise. With summer right around the corner, if you want to beat the heat with some sunshine and sea time, this is the place to do so. Siesta Key Beach has been named one of the most beautiful beaches in the country after all. When you’re not working on your tan, go museum hopping, visit the Big Cat Habitat and Gulf Coast Sanctuary, or take a short drive to the colorful Village of the Arts for an afternoon of galleries, cafes, and restaurants.
Hoken’s here to help you book the weekend getaway of your dream. You shouldn’t have to spend an arm and a leg on a hotel, which is why we’re bringing you some of the hottest hotel deals around for these destinations. Don’t see the city you’re dreaming of? We’re always adding more getaways and events!
