Top 10 Weekend Getaways for the Summer 2023

1. Cape Cod, Massachusetts:

With miles of beaches, charming towns, and great seafood, Cape Cod is the perfect place to spend a summer weekend.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a popular summer weekend getaway destination, located in the eastern part of the state. With miles of beaches, charming towns, and great seafood, Cape Cod offers a quintessential New England experience. Some popular activities and attractions in Cape Cod include:

Beaches: With over 500 miles of coastline, Cape Cod offers a wide variety of beaches, from family-friendly spots to secluded coves.

Cape Cod National Seashore: This protected area includes over 40 miles of beaches, dunes, and salt marshes, as well as hiking trails and historic sites.

Provincetown: This lively town at the tip of Cape Cod is known for its art galleries, restaurants, and LGBTQ+ community.

Whale watching: Several companies offer whale watching tours from various towns on Cape Cod, giving visitors the chance to see humpback, fin, and minke whales in their natural habitat.

Cape Cod Rail Trail: This 22-mile paved trail runs from Dennis to Wellfleet and is popular with cyclists and hikers.

Chatham Lighthouse: This iconic lighthouse in the town of Chatham has been guiding ships since 1808 and offers beautiful views of the coast.

Seafood: Cape Cod is famous for its fresh seafood, including lobster rolls, clam chowder, and fried clams. Some popular seafood shacks include The Lobster Pot in Provincetown and The Clam Shack in Falmouth

2. Asheville, North Carolina:

This mountain town is known for its beautiful scenery, craft breweries, and vibrant arts scene.

Asheville, North Carolina is a great summer weekend getaway destination, located in the western part of the state. Known for its beautiful scenery, craft breweries, and vibrant arts scene, Asheville offers a unique blend of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and culinary experiences. Some popular activities and attractions in Asheville include:

Blue Ridge Parkway: This scenic drive runs for 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Biltmore Estate: This historic mansion, built by the Vanderbilt family in the late 19th century, is the largest privately owned home in the United States and offers tours of the house and gardens.

Downtown Asheville: This vibrant area is full of art galleries, craft breweries, restaurants, and shops.

Pisgah National Forest: This nearby national forest offers hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic drives.

River Arts District: This area along the French Broad River is home to over 200 artists and offers galleries, studios, and workshops.

Asheville Botanical Gardens: These gardens feature over 600 species of plants native to the Southern Appalachian Mountains.

Asheville Food Tours: These guided walking tours offer the chance to sample local cuisine and learn about the city’s culinary history.

The Omni Grove Park Inn: This historic resort, built in 1913, offers luxurious accommodations and stunning views of the mountains.

3. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada:

Whether you prefer hiking, kayaking, or just lounging on the beach, Lake Tahoe has it all.

Lake Tahoe, California is a beautiful summer weekend getaway destination, located in the Sierra Nevada mountains in northern California. With its crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery, Lake Tahoe offers a wide range of outdoor activities and attractions. Some popular activities and attractions in Lake Tahoe include:

Beaches: Lake Tahoe has several beaches, including Kings Beach, Sand Harbor, and Meeks Bay, which offer swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Hiking: There are many hiking trails around Lake Tahoe, including the Tahoe Rim Trail, which circles the lake and offers panoramic views.

Emerald Bay State Park: This park features a beautiful bay, waterfalls, and the historic Vikingsholm mansion.

Biking: There are several bike paths and mountain biking trails around Lake Tahoe, including the Flume Trail, which offers stunning views of the lake.

Skiing and snowboarding: In the winter months, Lake Tahoe is a popular ski destination, with several ski resorts in the area, including Squaw Valley and Heavenly Mountain.

Kayaking and paddleboarding: Lake Tahoe is a great place for kayaking and paddleboarding, with several rental companies and guided tours available.

 

Casinos: There are several casinos around Lake Tahoe, including Harrah’s and the Hard Rock, which offer gaming, entertainment, and dining options.

Historic towns: There are several historic towns around Lake Tahoe, including Truckee and Virginia City, which offer a glimpse into the area’s mining and railroad past.

4. Portland, Maine:

This coastal city is a foodie’s paradise, with fresh seafood, craft beer, and local produce galore.

Portland, Maine is a charming summer weekend getaway destination, located on the coast in the southern part of the state. Known for its historic architecture, maritime heritage, and great food, Portland offers a laid-back New England experience. Some popular activities and attractions in Portland include:

Old Port: This historic district features cobblestone streets, 19th-century buildings, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.

Portland Head Light: This iconic lighthouse, located in nearby Cape Elizabeth, has been guiding ships since 1791 and offers beautiful views of the coast.

Casco Bay Islands: These islands, accessible by ferry from Portland, offer scenic beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites.

Maine Foodie Tours: These guided walking tours offer the chance to sample local cuisine, including lobster, oysters, and craft beer.

Eastern Promenade: This waterfront park offers stunning views of Casco Bay and is a popular spot for picnics, bike rides, and concerts.

Portland Museum of Art: This museum features a collection of American and European art, as well as special exhibitions.

Allagash Brewery: This popular brewery offers tours and tastings of its Belgian-style beers.

Victoria Mansion: This historic mansion, built in 1860, features Victorian-era architecture and furnishings.

Portland Farmers’ Market: This weekly market, held in Deering Oaks Park, offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

5. Sedona, Arizona:

Known for its red rocks and stunning sunsets, Sedona is a great place to relax and reconnect with nature.

Sedona, Arizona is a stunning summer weekend getaway destination, located in the northern part of the state. Known for its red rock formations, spiritual energy, and outdoor activities, Sedona offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Some popular activities and attractions in Sedona include:

Red Rock State Park: This park features stunning red rock formations, hiking trails, and a visitor center.

Chapel of the Holy Cross: This unique chapel, built into the red rocks, offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village: This shopping center features Southwestern art, jewelry, and pottery, as well as restaurants and cafes.

Jeep tours: Several companies offer jeep tours of the surrounding area, including the red rock formations and nearby canyons.

Oak Creek Canyon: This scenic canyon offers hiking trails, swimming holes, and picnicking areas.

Vortexes: Sedona is known for its energy vortexes, which are believed to have spiritual and healing properties. Several hiking trails lead to these vortexes.

Sedona Arts Center: This gallery and arts center features local artists and offers classes and workshops.

Sedona Golf Resort: This golf course offers stunning views of the red rock formations and is a popular destination for golfers.

Sedona International Film Festival: This annual festival, held in February, features independent films from around the world.

6. Newport, Rhode Island:

This historic town is famous for its mansions, sailing culture, and fresh seafood.

Newport, Rhode Island is a picturesque summer weekend getaway destination, located on the coast in the eastern part of the state. Known for its historic mansions, scenic coastline, and sailing heritage, Newport offers a charming and elegant atmosphere. Some popular activities and attractions in Newport include:

The Newport Mansions: These historic mansions, including The Breakers and Marble House, offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Gilded Age.

Cliff Walk: This scenic walking trail offers stunning views of the coastline and access to several of the Newport mansions.

Newport Harbor: This bustling harbor is home to numerous sailboats, yachts, and fishing boats, and offers boat tours and charters.

Ocean Drive: This scenic drive offers stunning views of the ocean and passes by several of the Newport mansions.

The International Tennis Hall of Fame: This museum and hall of fame features exhibits and memorabilia related to tennis history and champions.

Touro Synagogue: This historic synagogue, built in 1763, is the oldest synagogue in the United States and offers tours and exhibits.

Newport Art Museum: This museum features a collection of American art and offers exhibitions, classes, and workshops.

Newport Vineyards: This winery offers tours, tastings, and a restaurant with farm-to-table cuisine.

Newport Folk Festival: This annual music festival, held in July, features folk, blues, and roots music from around the world.

7. Santa Fe, New Mexico:

With its adobe buildings, art galleries, and delicious Southwestern cuisine, Santa Fe is a unique and charming destination.

Santa Fe, New Mexico is a vibrant and culturally rich summer weekend getaway destination, located in the northern part of the state. Known for its distinctive adobe architecture, art galleries, and Southwestern cuisine, Santa Fe offers a unique and memorable experience. Some popular activities and attractions in Santa Fe include:

Santa Fe Plaza: This historic plaza, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and galleries, is the heart of Santa Fe and a popular gathering place.

Palace of the Governors: This historic building, built in the early 17th century, was the seat of government during the Spanish and Mexican periods and is now a museum.

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: This museum features a collection of artwork by Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as exhibitions by other artists.

Santa Fe Opera: This world-renowned opera company performs in a stunning outdoor theater with panoramic views of the mountains.

Canyon Road: This historic street is lined with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, and is a popular destination for art lovers.

Museum Hill: This area of Santa Fe features several museums, including the Museum of International Folk Art and the Museum of Indian Arts and Culture.

Santa Fe Farmers’ Market: This weekly market, held in the Railyard district, offers fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.

Santa Fe National Forest: This nearby forest offers hiking, camping, and fishing opportunities, as well as scenic drives.

Santa Fe Wine Trail: This trail features several wineries and tasting rooms in and around Santa Fe, offering local wines and beautiful views.

8. Napa Valley, California:

This world-famous wine region offers beautiful scenery, delicious food, and of course, plenty of wine tasting opportunities.

Napa Valley, California is a world-renowned summer weekend getaway destination, located in the northern part of the state. Known for its vineyards, wineries, and stunning scenery, Napa Valley offers a relaxing and indulgent experience. Some popular activities and attractions in Napa Valley include:

Winery tours and tastings: There are over 400 wineries in Napa Valley, offering a wide range of wines and experiences, from small family-owned operations to large estates.

Napa Valley Wine Train: This scenic train ride offers views of the vineyards and a gourmet dining experience.

Hot air balloon rides: Several companies offer hot air balloon rides over Napa Valley, offering stunning views of the vineyards and surrounding landscape.

Oxbow Public Market: This indoor market features artisanal foods, specialty shops, and restaurants.

Napa Valley Museum: This museum features exhibitions on the history and culture of Napa Valley.

Petrified Forest: This nearby park features petrified trees and a visitor center with exhibits and information on the park’s history and geology.

Culinary Institute of America at Greystone: This world-renowned culinary school offers cooking classes, wine tastings, and a restaurant.

Napa Valley Balloons, Inc: This balloon ride company offers a unique and memorable experience.

Silverado Trail: This scenic drive offers stunning views of the vineyards and passes by several wineries and restaurants.

9. San Juan Islands, Washington:

These picturesque islands off the coast of Washington offer hiking, kayaking, whale watching, and plenty of fresh seafood.

The San Juan Islands in Washington State are a beautiful summer weekend getaway destination, located in the Pacific Northwest. Known for their natural beauty, outdoor activities, and wildlife, the San Juan Islands offer a peaceful and relaxing escape. Some popular activities and attractions in the San Juan Islands include:

Whale watching: The San Juan Islands are home to several species of whales, including orcas, humpbacks, and grays, and offer several whale watching tours.

Moran State Park: This state park, located on Orcas Island, offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping, as well as scenic views of the surrounding islands.

Friday Harbor: This charming town on San Juan Island offers shops, restaurants, and galleries, as well as a marina.

Lime Kiln Point State Park: This state park, located on the west side of San Juan Island, is a popular spot for whale watching and offers views of the lighthouse.

San Juan Islands Sculpture Park: This outdoor sculpture park, located on San Juan Island, features sculptures by local artists and offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Kayaking: The San Juan Islands offer numerous kayaking opportunities, with calm waters and stunning scenery.

Pelindaba Lavender Farm: This lavender farm on San Juan Island offers tours, a gift shop, and a cafe.

Lopez Island: This quiet island is a popular destination for cycling, hiking, and birdwatching, and offers several shops and restaurants.

Orcas Island Historical Museum: This museum on Orcas Island features exhibits on the island’s history and culture.

10. Outer Banks, North Carolina:

This chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina offers pristine beaches, historic lighthouses, and plenty of outdoor activities.

The Outer Banks in North Carolina is a beautiful summer weekend getaway destination, located on a string of barrier islands along the state’s eastern coast. Known for its long beaches, historic sites, and outdoor activities, the Outer Banks offers a fun and relaxing vacation. Some popular activities and attractions in the Outer Banks include:

Cape Hatteras National Seashore: This national park features miles of beaches, dunes, and marshes, as well as historic lighthouses.

Wright Brothers National Memorial: This memorial, located in Kill Devil Hills, commemorates the first flight by the Wright brothers and includes a museum and replica of their plane.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park: This park, located in Nags Head, features the tallest sand dune on the East Coast and offers hiking, hang gliding, and kite flying.

Bodie Island Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse, located in the town of Nags Head, offers tours and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Outer Banks Brewing Station: This brewpub, located in Kill Devil Hills, offers local beers and live music.

Roanoke Island Festival Park: This park, located on Roanoke Island, features a replica of a 16th-century ship, a Native American village, and a museum.

North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island: This aquarium, located on Roanoke Island, features exhibits on the marine life of