Whether you got married last month or last year, every couple needs a chance to recharge during a romantic getaway.
Even if you can’t afford to jet set to Europe or have an island vacation for a week, there are still plenty of great spots close to home that are perfect for a quick vacay.
Here are a few suggestions for the best road trip destinations all over the United States.
Romantic Road Trip Destinations
West Coast
Big Sky, Montana might be a bit of a drive from the coast, but the time it takes to get there is worth it once you see just how breathtaking it is. About an hour outside Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky offers amazing ski resorts, scenic drives, eclectic restaurants like Andiamo Italian Grille and Horn & Cantle, and spas to help you relax in the beautiful countryside.
For lodging, you can stay anywhere from a luxury penthouse suite to a tent underneath the city’s namesake.
The Santa Ynez Valley is on the central coast of California, and is just a few hours away from both Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Besides the beautiful backdrop of the Santa Ynez Mountains and the San Rafael Mountains, there is wine tasting galore (check out Beckman Vineyards), boutique shopping, craft beer at Firestone Walker Brewing Company, as well as pastries and traditional Danish food in a charming little town called Solvang. The Santa Ynez Valley is the perfect place to unwind and do as much (or as little) as you like.
The Midwest
South Haven, Michigan is located right on the coast of Lake Michigan and is just a short drive from Chicago or Detroit. Grab a beach chair and spend the day unwinding at Dyckman Beach. After a few hours of basking in the sun, do a tasting at one of the city’s several wineries or breweries.
Or, if you get tired of the beach, there are plenty of arts and entertainment options, including a used and rare book store, several art galleries, and even a drive-in movie theater.
Madison, Wisconsin is the ultimate college town, but that doesn’t mean that you’re required to attend a keg party during your stay. Visit the Chazen Museum of Art or catch a performance of the Madison Ballet for a bit of art and culture, or check out one of the area’s beaches on Lake Mendota and try out a new water sport. Finish off the day with cocktails at the Ivory Room piano bar before you head back to one of their charming bed and breakfasts.
The South
Oxford, Mississippi is known for William Faulkner, great food, and amazing cocktails. A small town with big city amenities, Oxford provides everything you need for a weekend away (especially for those who have an affinity for Southern literature).
Some must-do’s while you’re in town are staying at beautifully decorated The Graduate Hotel downtown on The Square, perusing Square Books, and eating at City Grocery. You can visit William Faulkner’s beautiful home called Rowan Oak and see where he crafted his masterpieces, and then sling back a couple of beers at The Blind Pig.
Georgetown, Texas is in the middle of Hill Country, just outside of Austin. It’s one of the most charming downtown squares in Texas, with buildings in a classic Victorian style. In addition to breathtaking views of Texas Hill Country, Georgetown has entertainment at The Palace Theater, beautiful artwork at the Georgetown Art Center, and plenty of wineries in town or close by.
Take a romantic bike ride through the downtown square or come for one of the city’s many festivals throughout the year for a truly quaint small town experience. Or, if your adventurous side needs a day out, consider taking a trip to the Inner Space Cavern. Tours for all kinds of enthusiasts, from simple walks to serious spelunking, go on every day.
East Coast
Lake Placid, New York has it all: the mountains, the water views, and romantic dining spots. Perfect for the adventurous couple, Lake Placid has hundreds of trails for hiking in the summer and plenty of lakes and rivers that are great for kayaking, boating, and paddleboards.
In the winter, Lake Placid is a ski and snowshoeing destination as well. If you’re hungry, head to KANU for innovative American cuisine or grab a local brew at Lake Placid Pub & Brewery.
Newport, Rhode Island is famous for its unbelievably beautiful mansions and its breathtaking coastal scenery. Take a brisk morning walk together on Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail of mansions along the coast perfect for those couples who love to talk architecture and design.
If you’re feeling thirsty on your trip, visit the state’s only rum distillery or grab a beer or a glass of wine at one of the area’s many breweries or wineries. Cuddle up on a couple of beach blankets at Easton’s Beach, and spend a memorable evening watching the waves and the sunset.
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