Photo by Darryl Brooks at Shutterstock
According to research, now that Covid and restrictions have calmed down a bit, a whopping 75% of travelers want to make up for lost time and maybe even save some cash while doing it. This is where quick vacations come in.
And luckily, there are many incredible weekend getaways right in our own backyard! The more we travel in our own country, the more we appreciate how its enormous size and incredible diversity mean that city breaks in the US can satisfy just about any type of traveler.
Want to lay out on one of the best beaches, go hiking, or simply experience some of the most iconic tourist sites in our country on a quick vacation? Check out the 4 cities that made the cut!
…Click “Next” To find YOUR next quick vacation!
Why? You can explore over 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and Green Bay in Door County, all speckled with lovely communities and the friendliness the midwest is known for that will make you feel like you stepped into a Hallmark movie.
And while you’re here, don’t forget to peek through the periscope at Door County Maritime Museum to see fantastic views of Sturgeon Bay. You can also enjoy biking, hiking, and kayaking along the Mink River Estuary.
You’ll love the classic Skyway Drive-In if you have the time. And be sure to stop in at Wilson Ice Cream Parlor to taste the creamy treats served at the old-fashioned soda fountain. Overall, it’s a perfect midwest spot for a quick vacation.
Budget Hack: To gain a new appreciation for nature at Wisconsin’s oldest private nature preserve, guided hikes are free for kids under 18 and only $5 for adults at Ridges Sanctuary.
Where To Stay: Julie’s Park Cafe & Motel has several options for budget-friendly lodging, including condos and cottages for under $125 during peak season with multiple bedrooms in Fish Creek.
Why? We love the Big Apple! During the pandemic, there was a more subdued vibe about this lively city. But restaurants are fully open now. Music has made a comeback, and the neon lights of Broadway shine brighter than ever, making it a smart choice for your quick vacation or a weekend getaway.
Budget Hack: You don’t need much money to get a true taste of New York. Spend your morning picking up “only here” flavors of the city, including bagels at Ess a Bagel, fancy cheeses at Murray’s, and corned beef sandwiches at Katz’s.
Or you can wander through Chinatown to chow down on some dumplings and buns or fruits and veggies from street vendors, then enjoy the scenery at Central Park for a classic view of the city.
Where To Stay: The Walker Hotel in Greenwich Village is an Art Deco jewel that’s perfectly located between Washington Square Park and Union Square, putting all the fantastic downtown restaurants, sights, and shops at your fingertips.
And the best part is that it costs under $200 per night.
Why? This quick vacation option is a quintessential charming southern city. It has 22 historic squares surrounded by cobblestone alleyways, historic mansions, and stately oak trees with hanging Spanish moss.
A carriage ride is the perfect way to go back in time and explore this stunning part of our country.
Budget Hack: Pack a picnic and spend a relaxing afternoon in Forsyth Park. And be sure to snap a memory-filled pic at the park’s grand, ninth-century cast-iron fountain, modeled after the fountains at the Place de la Concorde in Paris.
Where To Stay: For your perfect southern getaway, stay right in the heart of historic downtown Savannah, and check into Perry Lane Hotel. For $199 a night, you’ll be greeted with art-filled quarters filled with both style and charm.
Here you can relish in the warm weather at the rooftop pool or check out the beautiful library, where afternoon tea is served.
Why? With all that soft white sand and gentle Gulf of Mexico water, this quick vacation option’s beaches are award winners and are considered some of the best beaches in the Sunshine State.
They’re perfect if you want to spend your mini getaway splashing in the surf and lounging on the beach. When you’re done relaxing, hop on the free trolley to the Clearwater Aquarium. It’s where you’ll find Hope and Winter, the dolphin stars of the Dolphin Tale movies!
Budget Hack: Check out Pier 60 at Clearwater’s main beach, where you’ll find a free sunset festival with live entertainment every night.
Where To Stay: We recommend the beachfront Sandpearl Resort. Amenities include swim-in movies and s’mores at the beachside firepit.
But if you want a quieter escape with time at an incredible spa, check out the zero-entry lagoon pool, or get a private cabana that has everything from HDTVs to refrigerators within steps of the pool.
Be sure to leave us a comment if you know of any other amazing and quick vacations our readers would love. And in the meantime, we think you’ll also love reading about 48 Charming Small Towns You Haven’t Heard of (But Should Visit ASAP)
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