After a long week, sometimes a short getaway can replenish your batteries and renew your energy. But deciding which destination to travel to can be daunting when you only have a few days free. Here are just some of the many optionsfor your special weekend away.
-
New York City. Visitors can reach New York City by train, plane or automobile, so weekend getaways are a cinch. Plus, ample attractions indoors (like museums and Broadway shows) and outdoors (like Central Park and the High Line) make unpredictable weather a nonissue. For a dose of history, take the ferry to Ellis Island or the Statue of Liberty.
-
San Francisco. The City by the Bay offers temperatures in the 60s most of the year, making it ideal for walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, riding the famous cable cars and exploring the city’s eclectic neighborhoods. What’s more, sports lovers can enjoy superb views of the San Francisco Bay from AT&T Park during baseball season.
-
Washington, D.C. Not only is America’s capital chock full of free attractions, many of them are concentrated on the National Mall, making it easy to see the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and other highlights in just a matter of days. While visiting, don’t miss out on the popular weekend brunch scene – just remember to make reservations in advance.
-
New Orleans. You can’t tackle all of the Big Easy’s top sights in one weekend, but its diverse offerings make it easy to choose activities based on your interests. History buffs can visit The National WWII Museum, while outdoorsy types can walk through City Park. No trip would be complete without eating beignets and enjoying a night out in the French Quarter.
-
Nashville, NC. Part mountain town, part-hipster sanctuary, this North Carolina locale is a haven for adventurers and beer lovers. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest boast jaw-dropping vistas, and the North Carolina section of the Appalachian Trail is a must for die-hard hikers. After an active day, travelers can return to town to sip one of 100-plus local brews.
-
Chicago. Chicago’s iconic eats, diverse neighborhoods and abundance of can’t-miss sights make it a great weekend vacation spot. On warmer days, snap a selfie in front of “The Bean” and embark on an architecture river cruise. Meanwhile, museums like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum are ideal places to escape winter’s biting temps.
-
Seattle. This jewel of the Pacific Northwest offers iconic sights like Pike Place Market, the original Starbucks and the Space Needle, all of which you can see in a matter of days. You can even squeeze in a hike in Discovery Park or on nearby Mount Si. Just remember to bring an umbrella and a raincoat – weather in the Emerald City can be unpredictable.
