There are tons of great cities throughout the U.S. that are perfect weekend getaway destinations. These five cities are my absolute favorite places to visit throughout the year. From a bustling city in Washington to a smaller town nestled in Alabama, these are my best weekend getaway destinations. I have also included a few of my favorite Airbnb’s in each of these cities. Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links. If you decide to purchase any of these resources I earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
1. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is one of my favorite places to visit. They have tons of fun activities for all ages. The weather is usually pretty mild but can get pretty cold and rainy in the fall and winter. I love to visit in the early summer as the weather is perfect at that time of year!
The Space Needle
This is obviously a must-see if you are visiting Seattle. This iconic observation tower is 605 feet tall and it takes approximately 41 seconds by elevator to reach the top. The views from the top are incredible and there is also a restaurant that you can eat at. The space needle slowly rotates while you are eating so that you are able to see the entire view of the city. You can also see a glance of Mount Rainier on clearer days.
Pike Place Market
Another must-visit while in Seattle is the Pike Place Market. It is one of the oldest operating farmer’s markets in the United States. There are hundreds of shops within the market selling things like produce, fresh flowers, collectible items, antiques, crafts and so much more! It is famous for its “fish toss” where the employees toss giant fish to one another when it is purchased.
Museum of Pop Culture
This museum is just as it sounds, all about pop culture. It has exhibits covering music, cinema, video games, science fiction literature and costumes from movies and productions. The museum also has tons of interactive experiences such as the Sound Lab where you can create your own music and perform in front of a virtual audience. This is a great place for people of all ages to visit. https://www.mopop.org
Below is one of my top Airbnb Picks for Seattle. If you book using my special link you can get $65 off your first stay!
2. Colorado Springs, Colorado
Colorado is another great weekend destination spot. If you are more of the outdoorsy type there are so many amazing things to do in and around Colorado Springs. Most people put Denver as their destination when visiting Colorado, but I would highly recommend staying outside of the city limits to truly experience what this state has to offer.
Garden of the Gods
A must-see when in Colorado is Garden of the Gods. This park is located in Colorado Springs and features over 1,300 acres of sandstone formations. You are free to explore the park on your own and there are over 15 miles of trails throughout it. Many of the trails are also wheelchair and stroller accessible so it is a great place for all ages!
Pikes Peak
While in Colorado Springs be sure to also stop by and visit Pikes Peak. Enjoy the 19 mile drive to the top with amazing views and an abundance of wildlife. Once you reach the summit you will be able to see five states from the top (Colorado, Arizona, Utah, Kansas and New Mexico). The views from the summit are like nothing you’ve ever seen before!
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo
Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is one of the best zoos I’ve ever visited. It is on the smaller side but there is so much to see and do there. It can honestly be enjoyed by people of all ages as well, not just children. At an elevation of 6,714 feet above sea level it is actually the highest zoo in America. The views are simply beautiful throughout the park. This zoo is super interactive and you can also feed giraffes, elephants, rhinos and birds while there. Click here to get more information https://www.cmzoo.org
Below is my Airbnb pick for Colorado Springs. Check out that view! If you book using my link here you can get $65 off your first stay.
3. Nashville, Tennessee
Now you know by my blog name that I had to include this one! Nashville is a great weekend getaway destination not only for bachelorette parties but for the amazing food, music and attractions. Check out my blog post here about my top spots to visit in Nashville. I will include a couple below.
Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center
This is a beautiful resort that you don’t have to stay in to visit. It has over 9 acres of indoor gardens, rivers and waterfalls. There are also stores and restaurants located within the resort.
This is also a great place to visit during the holidays as it is decorated beautifully and they have winter activities such as ice skating, snow tubing and more. They have ICE! each holiday which is an interactive walk-through attraction with over 2 million pounds of ice sculpted into a different theme each year.
To avoid paying the $25 parking fee you can park in the Opry Mills Mall parking lot (across from the Dave and Buster’s) and walk over.
Broadway
Broadway is obviously a must-visit for anyone’s first trip to Nashville. This is a strip of bars and restaurants which is also known as Honky Tonk Central. There is live music in pretty much any bar and the atmosphere is super fun and laid back. This is a little more family-friendly during the day but would not recommend for kids at night.
Hattie B’s
Hattie B’s is one of my favorite places to get Nashville Hot Chicken. The flavors in their chicken are outstanding but be prepared for spicy! Even the mild chicken has quite a bit of spice to it. They also have a great selection of sides including southern greens, pimento mac & cheese, potato salad and many more. This is a must-try for anyone visiting Nashville!
4. New Orleans, Louisiana
I lived in Louisiana for close to five years and New Orleans is a city close to my heart. The city has so much history and culture and if you haven’t been you must add it to your bucket list! The food, music and just overall scene is nothing like you’ve ever experienced.
The French Quarter
The French Quarter is an amazing place to visit while in New Orleans. It’s famous for its nightlife, music, food, and local crafts. Make sure you stop by Bourbon street and grab a hand grenade drink.
Jackson Square
Also located in the French Quarter, Jackson square is a picture perfect setting and one of New Orleans most recognizable landmarks. In and around Jackson Square are tons of artists displaying their work outside of the iron fence. There are many unique and fun characters that you will see and interact with while visiting this area.
You can also stop by the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral which was originally built in 1727 but then rebuilt in the 1850’s after it was destroyed by fire. The inside is open for public-viewing as long as there is not a wedding or other function going on. It Is absolutely stunning on the inside.
Cafe Du Monde
New Orleans is known for its amazing food and Cafe Du Monde is no exception. Their cafe au lait coffee and beignets (a powder-sugar covered deep fried donuts) are one of a kind and a must-try!
5. Fairhope, Alabama
This lesser known city is a charming and beautiful place to visit right off of the coast of Alabama. It is listed as one of the “South’s Best Small Towns” by Southern Living. There are an abundance of quaint shops and restaurants (with some amazingly fresh seafood). You can shop till you drop or head over and visit the beach nearby. It is the perfect weekend getaway! Click here to get more information on this quaint southern city.
@fairhopers on Instagram
The Grand Hotel Golf Resort and Spa in Point Clear is an amazing resort and spa located just a few miles away from the center of Fairhope. The grounds have an abundance of large moss-covered oak trees and beautiful gardens. It is located right along Mobile Bay and has a golf course, and indoor and outdoor pool (with slides), a restaurant and an art gallery. I have stayed here several times and I have to say that it is one of my favorite resorts ever! Click here to read more about this amazing resort.
Check out this amazing Airbnb Castle in Fairhope! Book using my link here to get $65 off your first stay.
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