weekend trip out west

UponArriving

40 Places to See in The Western United States (Vacations, Landmarks) [2023]

This article will show you 40 (stunning) places to see in the Western United States.

These are pretty stunning destinations perfect for vacations, road trips, and for anybody interested in discovering these landmarks and points of interest.

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

Table of Contents

1. Moaning Cave –  Moaning Cavern Park (California)

Moaning Cave sounds like the title to an Indie film you’d probably want to avoid, but don’t be deceived. Discovered (modernly) during the Gold Rush, this cavern earned its name from the moaning sound that echoes throughout the cave. You can’t deny the intrigue of caverns, especially ones that emit moaning echoes. If you’re in the Gold Country area then try to stop by.

2. Paint Mines – Paint Mines Interpretative Park (Colorado)

Most people think about the Rocky Mountains when they think of Colorado. Here’s a lesser known spot worth your time called “Paint Mines.” This park is a cluster of hoodoos and sand-capped spires of all colors.

There’s an array of wildlife here, too. Everything from horned toads, mule deers, falcons, and coyotes call this place home. Definitely look into visiting.

3. Horsetail Fall in February – Yosemite National Park (California)

Ever seen a “fire fall?”

Better yet, have you ever even heard of a fire fall?

You’ll only be able to catch a glimpse of this elusive wonder at Yosemite National Park two weeks out of the year in February when the sun shines on the fall just right at sunset. But if you’ve ever wondered what a waterfall looks like when lit on fire, now you know.

4. The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone – Yellowstone National Park ( Wyoming)

Everybody knows about the Grand Canyon. And everybody knows about Yellowstone . But not everyone knows that there’s a “Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone” and that it is one of the most stunning places in the country.

5. Kanarra Creek – Zion National Park (Utah)

Now that Antelope Canyon is growing in fame and rightfully so, I felt the need to showcase another stunning slot canyon, Kanarra Creek. Unlike Antelope Canyon, you’ll actually have to do some hiking through the Zion backcountry to get to this picturesque location.

6. Hidden Lake – Glacier National Park (Montana)

Really, the entire national park of Glacier could be put on this list because so few people know about the many peaks, lakes, and (you guessed it) glaciers that make up this spectacular park. I figured Hidden Lake exemplified the unknown beauty of Glacier, in both its name and its scenery.

7. Rialto Beach – Olympic National Park (Washington)

Standing tall and shaped like the Pacific’s version of the “Burj Al Arab” (the sailboat skyscraper) in Dubai, this iconic beach is a photographer’s paradise. And as the caption below suggests, Rialto Beach may be the best “Kelped” secret of the Pacific Northwest coastline.

8. Painted Hills – John Day Fossil Bed National Monument (Oregon)

Here’s a scene right out of a Dr. Seuss book except it’s real life. I’ve seen a similar sight in Asia but who knew we had this here in the United States? The painted hills are a part of a larger area of the John Day Fossil Bed where you can find fossils of horses, camels, and even rhinoceroses. And by “you” I mean skilled paleontologists, of course.

9. The Subway – Zion National Park (Utah)

Going to or from the Subway, you’ll dive through emerald waters, rappel through multiple slot canyons, scramble over boulders the size of houses, and pass dinosaur tracks. Oh yeah, and you’ll catch a glimpse of this wonder.

10. Black Canyon of the Gunnison – Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)

Black Canyon of the Gunnison sounds like a place straight out of a fantasy novel and it looks like one, too. It’s one of the steepest mountain descents in the world and the photos here will leave you with no doubt of that fact.

11. Zabriskie Point – Death Valley National Park (California)

Here’s yet another location you’ll have to see with your own eyes to believe it’s actually earth you’re looking at. See the tiny black things on the left that look like penguins? They’re actually humans — that’s how vast this unique landscape is.

12. White Pocket – Arizona

White Pocket’s not really white but actually full of brilliant, vibrant color… and dragons, too.

13. Palouse Falls –  Palouse Falls State Park (Washington)

Not quite a hidden gem if you live in the Pacific Northwest, but Palouse Falls is a destination many outside of the photography and hiking world have not heard about. Not to mention most people can’t believe to find out this spot is in Washington state and not somewhere in the Southwest.

14. Theodore Roosevelt National Park – North Dakota

For those who always ask what there is to do in North Dakota, well now you have an answer. Theodore Roosevelt National Park is full of badlands just waiting to be explored. The park is also known for its abundant wildlife, which include feral horses, golden eagles, and elk among many others.

15. Hidden Lake – North Cascades National Park (Washington)

Another hidden lake makes the list. This one will take a few miles of hiking to get to capture the view but as you can see it would be worth it.

16. Cathedral Lake – Yosemite National Park (California)

While this point may be known to frequent hikers to Yosemite, it’s still a destination constantly overlooked by many for other destinations inside Yosemite Valley that are easier to access. If you’re planning on making it here be sure you to apply for a permit early or take your chances with first come, first serve.

17. Tent Rocks – Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument (New Mexico)

I know what you’re thinking. These cones look like they were shaped by volcanic eruptions that likely occurred 6 to 7 million years ago. Well, you’re right. Stop by Tent Rocks to witness the artistic side of mother nature if you’re ever in the Santa Fe, New Mexico area.

Related: 18 Best National Parks in New Mexico

18. McWay Falls – Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park/Big Sur (California)

Can it get more beautiful than a waterfall (or “tidefall”) pouring into turquoise waters on a California beach at dusk? I don’t think it can. I really don’t think it can….

Okay, so maybe it can….

19. Goosenecks – Goosenecks State Park ( Utah)

A quick stop allows you to see this triple entrenched meander located close to Mexican Hat and not far from Monument Valley. Just be aware that your GPS on your cell phone will sometimes do some funky things in this region of the country. Make sure you’re actually headed to Goosenecks State Park and not an abandoned gas station 50 miles out of the way (not that it ever happened to me).

20. Garden of the Gods – Colorado

Visit the Garden of the Gods National Landmark and you will be blown away by the stark contrast between the Garden’s bright orange and the surrounding terrain. There are tons of photo ops around this place and it is easily accessible by car. Don’t miss it if you’re in the Colorado Springs area; it’s a perfect road trip pit-stop.

21. Mono Lake – California

In 2010, scientists thought they’d discovered a new “alien” DNA here, and can anyone really blame them? Just look at the formations happening here. Now, I’m pretty sure that “discovery” has been debunked, but I’m still holding out hope for aliens.

22. Bisti Badlands – New Mexico

Badlands never get old, especially when they look like giant petrified mushrooms. Here’s some badlands in New Mexico, not known to many.

23. The Window – Big Bend National Park (Texas)

Big Bend is one of the least visited national parks due to its location just west of middle-of-nowhere, Texas. But what it lacks in visitors it makes up in breathtaking views like this one.

The Window is one of those places where you have to just put life on hold, get comfortable on a bench and watch the vast Texas sky transform into a real-life painting at sunset. It’s one of my favorite national parks in Texas .

And after you get your sunset fix, head to nearby Marfa,Texas to see the sky get real freaky when the Marfa lights come out.

24. Green River Overlook – Canyonlands National Park (Utah)

A lot of people have seen images of the Canyonlands, but I still think Canyonlands National Park is overlooked so I included it. You’ll catch some of the most amazing sunrises and sunsets you’ve ever seen at this park. And if you’re a movie buff, try heading to Blue John Canyon where you can see the site where the actual accident occurred in the movie,  127 hours .

25. Blue Mesa/Painted Desert – Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)

Now it’s back to Dr. Seuss land with more absurdly colored desert land. And what makes this place even weirder is that the brown stuff you’ll assume is dirt is actually little bits of petrified trees that are reallllly old. It’s one of my favorite national parks sites in Arizona ( read more about others here ).

26. Valley of Fire – Valley of Fire State Park (Nevada)

Don’t think you’ll ever be able to make your way to Mars? Well, luckily you can catch a glimpse of Mars at this state park in Nevada where Hollywood has also gone looking for the Martian terrain. There are ton of formations to check out here but the Fire Wave (seen below) is one of my favorites.

This place is only about 60 miles out from Las Vegas, so if you don’t want to drive all the way to the Grand Canyon this is the place you want to stop. If you visit this place in the summer, be sure to bring extra water because it gets HOT. Dry heat or not, it’s still the Valley of Fire .

27. Antelope Canyon – Arizona

While Antelope Canyon is becoming more known it still deserves a place on this list, because I meet tons of people who still don’t know about this sacred place. Witnessing the light beams in this canyon should be on everyone’s bucket list. Check out my write-up on Antelope Canyon for more info.

28. Inspiration and Bryce Point – Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)

Well known to photographers, the average vacationer is probably more interested in seeing sites like the Grand Canyon when in the area but this sight is not to be missed, especially at sunrise.

29. Smith Rock – Oregon (Smith Rock State Park)

Smith Rock, located in central Oregon, is a frequent rock-climbing destination for professional climbers and known as the birth place of “sport climbing.” The best of the best are consistently developing the latest routes and climbing techniques out here. Even if you’re not a climber it’s a beautiful setting to watch the sunrise as it illuminates this huge rock, resembling a castle towering over a surrounding moat.

30. Bodega Head – Bodega Bay (California)

When bringing up California beaches, the names usually mentioned first are those like Malibu and Big Sur. But here’s one you probably haven’t heard: Bodega Bay. At Bodega, massive cliffs suited for whale-watching overlook rocky beaches, and trails will lead you all around scenic terrain and even down to secluded beaches where you’ll be the only human being walking on the sand.

Say hello to the seals at Seal Rock and then visit the tide pools that are among the most diverse in the world and have attracted the likes of National Geographic. Just watch out for the birds when visiting the nearby town of Bodega.

31. Paradise Valley – Mt Rainer National Park (Washington)

Paradise valley. The name really says it all…

32. The Racetrack – Death Valley National Park (California)

Just how did these rocks get there? Aliens? The prankster of the century? God? Nobody really knows . The Race Track is a true natural wonder because if you visit it you will inevitably spend all day wondering who really moved these rocks?

33. Horseshoe Bend – Page, Arizona

Horseshoe Bend is another spot growing with popularity but still often times confused with the Grand Canyon National Park. From a nearby parking lot, it’s a short hike to the overlook but be careful about getting too close to the edge — it’s a long 1,000 feet down to the Colorado River below.

34. B adlands – Badlands National Park (South Dakota)

Badlands National Park is the place to see badlands. It’s also a perfect place to find unique wildlife, such as bighorn sheep, the swift fox, bison, and the most endangered mammal in North America: the elusive black-footed ferret. Try to catch the sunset or sunrise here and if you’re lucky you may even catch a sight of the Northern Lights.

35. Fiery Furnace – Arches National Park (Utah)

So everyone goes to Arches National Park just to see the arches, right? Not exactly. Here’s one “non-arch” spot worth checking out. Enter the furnace at your own risk, however. Inside, there are no signs, trails, or cairns and due to the height of the sandstone walls your GPS is likely to fail as well.

36. Spider Rock – Canyon De Chelly National Monument (Arizona)

Recently used as a backdrop in last summer’s record-setting flop, The Lone Ranger , Canyon De Chelly is another destination worth a visit. The taller of the two spires is said to be home of the “Spider Grandmother” who according to folklore is responsible for all of creation. There’s more breathtaking views like the one below to checkout so make sure you see them all. Also, be sure to bring some cash with you to purchase some local art that makes for great souvenirs.

37. Giant Sequoias – Sequoia National Park (California)

So trees are kind of boring to most people including myself, but giant sequoias are definitely an exception. Sometimes growing higher than 300 feet, many of these trees are over 2,000 years old and have up to three-feet thick of squishy bark.

Head to Sequoia National Park to see them as well as the largest tree in the world, The General Sherman Tree.

38. Rio Grande Gorge – New Mexico 

The Rio Grande gets a bad wrap sometimes but this view should change your mind. If you’re ever making the cross country road trip through southern New Mexico then check out the “Gorge Bridge” where you’ll be awestruck with views like this.

39. Hospital Reef Potholes – San Diego, California

Hospital Reef Potholes, near San Diego, is known for its potholes that kind of resemble the surface of the moon. Speaking of the moon, all you national park junkies may want to start gearing up because you may have one hell of a hike to get to one of the upcoming National Park sites, soon.

40. Mammoth Springs – Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming)

We end the list with another Yellowstone site that many wouldn’t be able to recognize and constantly overlook, leaving it ranked as low as the 23rd attraction for Yellowstone according to TripAdvisor. On your way to the hot springs and in nearby areas, you may run into some real wildlife.

I’m talking about grizzly bears, moose, bison, elk, that kind of stuff so watch out. But everyone seems to be blown away by these hot springs, which make a worthwhile destination in the summer or in the -20 degree winter.

Remember to tread lightly and do your best to preserve these wonderful locations by using common sense and having respect for the land, the locals, and other visitors when you visit.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

Great website. Never knew some of these places existed. Will definitely be visiting some of these places.

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13 Amazing Days Out West: US Road Trip Itinerary

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Looking to create a jam-packed itinerary and see a bunch of national parks out West in the United States? Look no further!

In May 2021, I took a road trip with my travel buddy, Doug, and one of his friends. We explored SIX different states and saw SIX different national parks in just 13 days. It was an exhausting but ever so rewarding trip.

To save you the time in creating a road trip itinerary for yourself, check out ours to use or use as a starting point to plan your own version of this road trip!

Day 1: Las Vegas, Nevada

Fly into Las Vegas, Nevada. Enjoy the Las Vegas Strip and nightlife for a fun and exciting start to the road trip!

Day 2: Las Vegas, Nevada

You’ll probably need a recovery day after your flight/nightlife adventures. Hang by the pool at your hotel and get that tan started.

To save yourself some time tomorrow when the road trip officially starts, go pick up your rental car. The LV Strip is extremely close to the LV airport, so you can take a cheap taxi or Uber there to pick up your car.

Day 3: Las Vegas, Nevada to Flagstaff, Arizona

Today is a jam-packed sightseeing day on the road trip! We’re going to make a few stops along our journey from Las Vegas to our final destination in Flagstaff.

When you’re leaving Las Vegas, make a quick stop at the infamous “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign .

About a half hour from Las Vegas, you’ll be able to make a tiny detour and see the Hoover Dam ! Park your car, and take a quick walk over the pathway to take in the full sight. It’s quite marvelous.

Drive two more hours and welcome to Arizona. First stop in Arizona is Oatman . This town is something straight out of a movie. It is your typical old west town and there are donkeys roaming around the streets. Yup. Donkeys. This is one of the many stops along the famous Route 66.

About one hour further down Route 66 there is a cute rest stop called Hackberry General Store . They’ve got souvenirs and snacks and super clean bathrooms , which is a must while on a long road trip.

Three more hours in the car and you’ve arrived in Winslow, Arizona . Another town along Route 66. This one made famous from The Eagles’ song “Take it Easy”. This is the place to stop for some lunch. There is a 50s style restaurant called the Sipp Shoppe right across the street from the Eagles’ corner that has some great and affordable options.

Also in Winslow, there is the Meteor Crater , which is essentially just a giant hole in the ground, but still a pretty neat spot if you’re willing to spend $22pp on this giant hole.

Last stop for the day is Flagstaff, Arizona. There’s plenty to do here, but a must stop is the Lowell Observatory . This is a late night activity, so get a good nap in before, but it is a relaxing way to end your evening in Flagstaff.

Day 4: Flagstaff to Grand Canyon Village

Rise and shine! Hop in the car and drive two hours to the Grand Canyon Village. Grand Canyon Village is about 10 minutes from the South Rim Entrance of the Grand Canyon . This one is pretty self-explanatory. You can hike, eat, or just admire the beauty of the Grand Canyon for the rest of the day.

Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Another day in the Grand Canyon… Again, self-explanatory…

Bring Arizona to your home with these adorable succulents!

Day 6: Grand Canyon Village, Arizona to Albuquerque, New Mexico

A decent amount of driving is on the schedule today, so plan to get up on the early side. We’re back on Route 66 now, and three hours of driving will bring you to Holbrook, Arizona , which is known for their dinosaurs. Basically there are dinosaur statues everywhere. Spoiler alert: they’re underwhelming.

Right outside of Holbrook is Petrified Forest National Park and the Painted Dessert . Driving through and making stops throughout the park will leave you speechless.

Once you’re done staring at the colors of the Painted Desert and Petrified Forest, hop in the car and drive three hours east to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the night.

I recommend staying at Hotel Albuquerque Old Town. There is a Mexican restaurant right in the hotel that is to die for. You’ll thank me later.

Day 7: Albuquerque, New Mexico to Alamosa, Colorado

A fun morning in Albuquerque ahead, so fill your bellies with a delicious breakfast at Frontier Restaurant . Get anything with a tortilla. They’re made in house, and are perfect. Me and Doug still talk about them.

After breakfast indulge in a self-guided Breaking Bad tour . Starting at the Breaking Bad Store. Check out sites such as Dog House Drive In and Walter & Skylar’s house, but beware of the homeowners here. There is a woman who sits on a lawn chair on the front lawn with signs and threatening to call the cops at everyone taking pictures of her house.  

After the tour, drive approximately 4 hours to Alamosa, Colorado. Alamosa is the closest city to Great Sand Dunes National Park . This is the perfect late afternoon activity since the sun isn’t as strong. Pack your goggles and tie up your hair, because it can get WINDY.

Back in Alamosa, there is a delicious Thai restaurant called Siam Cuisine to end the evening at.  

Day 8: Alamosa, Colorado to Denver, Colorado

Alamosa has a bunch of chain restaurants to indulge in as well. One of my personal favorites, IHOP was our choice for breakfast before the four-hour drive to Denver, Colorado.

Spend the day enjoying the city. There is plenty to do. For lunch, enjoy a half-yard of beer at The Yard House with a delicious Bavarian pretzel too.

For dinner, head to Avanti , which is a pretty unique place in my opinion! It’s open seating, so first-come first-serve. There are waiters and waitresses wandering around to take your drink orders, but the food is all different stations/restaurants that you can order from by just walking over to whichever one you’re in the mood for! Pretty neat.

Day 9: Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Another day another national park! Today is Rocky Mountain National Park , which is about 1.5 hours away from Denver, Colorado. It’s actually much closer to Boulder if you’re looking to stay in a closer city.

Take in the mountain views and hike around the trails and lakes. It’s one of the most beautiful, serene places out there. That’s coming from someone who doesn’t like snow and the mountains were covered in it.

Day 10: Denver, CO to Moran, Wyoming

Today is a road trip day. Pack the car with lots of snacks and make a good playlist. We have eight hours ahead from Denver to Moran, Wyoming, where we’ll be staying for our next few national parks.

The drive from Denver to Wyoming may be long but it is absolutely beautiful, so don’t dread it!

Once you arrive, settle into the Hatchet Resort , where you’ll feel nothing but comfortable. It’s a really homey little place, and I cannot recommend it enough. Hatchet is about 30 minutes from Jackson Hole, Wyoming. To get there you have to drive through Grand Teton National Park (don’t worry you’re not charged for this section), so the drive is unbelievably gorgeous and will leave you speechless.

Jackson Hole has some amazing restaurants to choose from and some great shopping. It’s a wonderful down to relax and wind down in after that long day in the car.

Day 11: Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

Yellowstone is a bit of a drive from Moran, but Moran is the closest place to the Wyoming entrance. It takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to arrive at the Yellowstone National Park entrance .

Heads up!!!! You HAVE to drive through and PAY for Grand Teton National Park if you are entering Yellowstone through Wyoming. This isn’t a problem for the annual pass holders of course, but if you are paying per park, each one is $35 to enter, so that’ll be a $70 day just to enter the park. Plan wisely.

Visit the famous Old Faithful and Grand Prismatic Spring ! Take in all of the colors and smells of the springs. That’s right, did you know sulfur smells terrible because if not, you’ll learn really quick.

There’s an abundance to see in Yellowstone, so ensure you pick your spots and plan it out well to not waste anytime.

Day 12: Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming to Salt Lake City, UT

Grand Teton National Park is an absolutely majestic place to see, and even though you drove through it to get to Yellowstone and drove by it each trip into Jackson Hole, I recommend taking a few hours to drive around the park itself.

You can see some more bison wandering around, an adorable family of grizzlies , and even a fox or two!

Make a stop at Jenny Lake and admire the glacier-blue, crystal-clear waters. Your whole world will stand still when you see the beauty here.

Once you’re done in Grand Teton, hop in the car and start your 5-hour journey to Salt Lake City, Utah.

This part can be adjusted, and I honestly recommend it to be. Flights out of Jackson Hole were not doable for us this time around so we went to SLC for better flight options, but you don’t have to.

Day 13: Salt Lake City, UT

Before heading to the airport, make a stop at Red Butte Gardens . The colors and aroma of the flowers is the perfect relaxing activity before boarding that plane. There are plenty of different flowers and plants to see. You might even see a bunny hopping around!

Grab some lunch and head to the airport. It’s time to go home and tell all of your family and friends about your amazing road trip out west!! 

Build your own adventure with this A-Frame Cabin!

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West Coast Weekend trips: exploring new cities one weekend at a time

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: June 4, 2017  - Last updated: February 4, 2024

It’s no secret that we love the weekends.  I mean, who doesn’t? With or without the kids we try to break away to a new city or visit one of our old favs whenever possible. There are loads of West Coast weekend trips you can take for a great recharge on life, so here are our top five that’ll help you relax and while discovering some place new.

West Coast Weekend Trips to Remember

Yeah, you can take two days to chill at home and get caught up on laundry or binge watch a new show or something, or you can head out and see what’s just beyond your front door.  That’s what the concept of being a Seekender is all about.  We’re totally behind it and are excited to inspire others to do it too!

Puget Sound Area weekend trips

Depending on the time of year there are several awesome weekend trips you can do in the Puget Sound area .  One of our favorites, which says a lot because we’ve lived in the area most of our lives, is hitting the North Sound.  A little over an hour north of Seattle you’ll find a totally different world that’s interesting and easy to explore.

Anacortes and Whidbey Island

For the longest time we would pretend Anacortes wasn’t a town, but just a place to catch the ferry or drive through to get to Whidbey Island, but then we went and explored it on a weekend and fell in love… and then have since returned several times.  We found the downtown area to be hoppin’ with lots of great local beers and a whole lot of park fun for the kids.

Right next door to Anacortes is Whidbey Island, which could be good for a few weekend trips itself.  Whether the plan is hiking in Deception Pass or wandering through the retired bunkers of Fort Casey State Park , you’ll have oodles of outdoor options for exploring and relaxing.  And then there are also plenty of wineries on the island.  And the sleepy little town of Coupeville where Practical Magic was filmed.  Tons to explore.  

Both Anacortes and the towns of Whidbey Island have a calm, quiet feel even in the height of their many festivals, so you’ll have ample opportunities to relax and regroup.

San Juan Islands

Who needs to fly across the country to find pristine beaches and turquoise waters?  Not us because we can take a weekend trip to the San Juan Islands.  Or we could even just visit one of the many islands for a day.  

Ferries leave several time each day out of Anacortes, so planning a weekend trip or a day of dining and nature is totally doable.  Orcas Island is our favorite to visit with San Juan Island being a close second.  Towns like Eastsound, Friday Harbor and Roche Harbor make the San Juans quite picturesque and relaxing.  Great food and rolling farms paired with historic hotels and lighthouses … The San Juan Islands are a wonderfully unique experience to consider for one of your upcoming weekend trips.

Tip :  check out the ferry schedule before starting your day in the San Juan Islands.  Don’t get stuck or miss your boats.

Skagit Valley Tulip Festival

Okay, this is totally date-driven, but if you can work it out, weekend trips in April and May can put you in tulip country at just the right time.  The Skagit Valley Tulip Festival  happens every year and the amount of color is overwhelming.  

La Conner is the main drag for getting into the spirit and exploring a vintage fishing village.  On a weekday it’s pretty sleepy, but on the weekend you’ll find lots of local art in the galleries, bottomless fresh seafood straight outta Puget Sound and local brews too.  You can’t go wrong spending a weekend touring tulip fields and getting a dose of Pacific Northwest history.  The combo is perfect.  And can you think of any better way to recharge than sitting in a field of flowers?  No.

Movies to inspire PNW weekend trips :  Practical Magic (Coupeville/Whidbey Island), An Officer and a Gentleman (Pt Townsend, ferry from Whidbey), The Ring (San Juan Islands) – yes, I said to watch a creepy movie.

Portland Area weekend trips

Portland , Oregon itself is a cool city.  We’ve escaped to the City of Roses for a weekend on more than one occasion and have come to appreciate Portland for the weird wonder that it is.  If you haven’t explored it yet, make sure one of your summer or fall weekend trips lands you in Portland.  The food scene is probably the most vibrant take-away from a Seekender weekend in PDX, but when you add the side trips out of the city, you’ll see why we keep heading back for more.

Northern Oregon Coast

“Goonies never say die!!”  True story.  Astoria and Cannon beach are just outside of Portland and are also known as the Goondocks.  If you were a child of the 80s you know exactly what I’m talking about.  If not, go find a VCR and an older friend who still has The Goonies on VHS tape.

If you have not clue what we’re talking about but love the idea of rugged coastline and lighthouses , that’s an easy weekend trip too.  Relaxing on a bluff watching the sun set behind the Tillamook Rock Light…  Walking the streets of Astoria and checking out the Victorian era architecture… Hiking to the Cape Meares lighthouse to get up close with the Pacific Northwest ’s nautical past… There are so many opportunities to have new experiences just outside of Portland .

Columbia Gorge Waterfall Area

We actually just returned from the Columbia Gorge where we stayed in Hood River at the Hampton Inn and Suites directly on the water.  Whether you’re staying in Portland or Hood River, the Columbia Gorge is a must-visit.  The moss covered hiking trails and iconic Multnomah Falls are unforgettable, especially with kids.  Spring is the best time to plan a weekend trip to the Waterfall Area due to lots of rain and snow-melt, but even in the heat of summer it’s amazing.  Take a look at our full account of this truly unique place .

Movies to inspire :  The Goonies (Astoria, Cannon Beach), Kindergarten Cop (Astoria), Free Willy (Astoria), Maverick (Columbia River Gorge), Grimm (series set in Portland), Portlandia (because.)

San Francisco Bay Area trips

With airfare to the Bay Area being much cheaper from other West Coast destinations than, say, places like New York or Miami, it’s really a great option for exploring and seeing a new side of California.  Having lived in SF exploring the city is merely wandering on a different walking path than normal.  Or it’s taking the MUNI out to Ocean Beach instead of driving.  But you know, if you’re local to the Bay Area, there is more to explore beyond the city.

A day in San Jose

Ever since I was a kid I wanted to visit the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, California.  All it took was moving to San Francisco and exploring the larger city to the south to finally get to visit.  OMG, what a weird and kinda creepy place, but really cool!  Yes, it’s totally a tourist trap and rightfully so: it’s iconic, bizarre, and unique among historic sites.  But it is also a new and fascinating way to learn some history.  If exploring on the weekends doesn’t include a bit of history of some sort, well, how can it not?

San Jose is actually a city of neighborhoods and smaller cities, so after you’ve been sufficiently creeped out by the Winchester Mystery House, you can go explore… or shop.   Santana Row is super close if you’re in the shopping mood or entertainment sounds fun.  Also nearby is the Children’s Discovery Museum and the San Jose Museum of Art .  

Funny story :  the first time I ever saw one of the inflatable, flappy car lot balloon men was at the San Jose Museum of Art.  An artist was displaying the concept as part of a modern installation… and now the flappy dudes are everywhere as advertising beacons.  #CuttingEdge.

Across the Golden Gate Bridge

When you talk to people who live in San Francisco or around they can tell you all about the cool neighborhoods, like Telegraph Hill or The Mission , but not a ton of them have explored the Golden Gate Bridge or gone north to Muir Woods .  

First of all, if you don’t have a National Parks Passport  yet, go get one.  Once you do, head out of the bustle of downtown San Francisco and head to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area .  Here you’ll find Fort Mason, Crissy Fields, some awesome old bunkers and the Golden Gate Bridge.  Get your National Park Passport stamped and find some new history and fascination in SF.  And then cross the bridge.

Just north of Sausalito you’ll come to Muir Woods National Monument .  This is a quiet place you’ll love… and it’ll feel really familiar.  When you get there, close your eyes, listen, when you hear a twig snap DROP!! No doubt you’ll realize that this is where the Storm Troopers chased Luke and Leia on speeders in Return of the Jedi.  The woods are absolutely beautiful and the trees enormous.  This is a great spot to relax during a weekend trip, with the forest being so dense you’ll lose yourself immediately.

Movies to inspire :  Return of the Jedi (Muir Woods), Star Trek IV (Golden Gate & SF), So I Married an Axe Murderer (SF), and in 2018 Winchester (I can’t wait!)

Los Angeles weekend trips

We love Los Angeles for lots of reasons, but one primary driver for use continually going back for weekend trips is for the countless things we can do with or without the kids all around LA and Southern California .  We shared a whole article about the fun and f ree things to do in Los Angeles , but there’s a whole world beyond the city too.

Palm Springs

Planning a weekend trip to Palm Springs is genius.  So much of LA heads to the beaches on the weekend, and rightfully so, but not as many head east to Palm Springs.  What we love about weekend trips like this are that we can find cool and unusual activities while everybody else is doing the shopping/dining thing.  Hiking the Indian Canyons of Aguas Calientes is so unusual and amazing.  Did you know that you can have a relaxing getaway to a palm oasis in the desert just beyond the traffic of Los Angeles?  #TrueStory.  Before we even had heard the concept of being a Seekender, this was our favorite place to relax and getaway on a weekend when we lived in SoCal.

I know, you’re thinking “Aren’t you sharing relaxing ideas?”  Yes, totally.  Have you ever been to Disneyland without kids?  It’s amazing!!  True, you spend the whole time thinking about how much you wish your kids were with you, but it’s such a great adult getaway.  I think the prime relaxation comes in the magic of it all and being swept out of yourself, with or without kids.  

And if you’re doing Disneyland with the kids as part of a weekend trip, here are our tips:

Arrive early and stay late

Know that it’s okay to not do everything

Take time to enjoy the incredible stage of the overall Disneyland show

Be at the entrance to CarsLand AT SUNSET to watch the neon light up.  Pure magic.

And single-rider – if one of you wants to do a major attraction, ask if you can go as a single

Movies to inspire :  La La Land (vintage Los Angeles), Romy and Michelle’s High School Reunion (LA beach vibe), Oceans 11 (Palm Springs vibe), Cars (because California Adventure…), anything with Bing Crosby (vintage SoCal)

San Diego weekend trips

Whether you’re heading to San Diego for a weekend trip or you live there and need to explore beyond your front door, you’ve got some wonderful options to surprise you and get you excited about the SD life.  And if you aren’t inspired by our two favorite day trips, just head to Mission Beach or Pacific Beach; let the sand and surf relax you.

Cabrillo National Monument

We’ve been asked by a few friends “if you could live in one National Park, which would it be?”  Both Chris and I said Cabrillo National Monument in San Diego.  Without even having to go far from San Diego itself Cabrillo is a total gem.  We love our lighthouses and tidepools, and that’s exactly what you’ll find here.   Cabrillo National Monument is set across the bay from San Diego so it’s quiet and beautiful with a stellar view.

If you are thinking about weekend trips with kids, Cabrillo National Monument is actually ideal for that because you’ll be able to experience living history within the park on most weekends.  Adding history to a beautiful escape is like finding an incredible cheese to serve with… more delicious cheese.

Mission San Juan Capistrano

I’m always surprised how few people have been here.  I grew up reading the story of the swallows of Mission San Juan Capistrano , so on a weekend trip out of San Diego we headed just north to the town and mission.  It was so beautiful and really perfect for taking a break from life.  Mission San Juan Capistrano is full of history and has been restored really well to showcase it, but it also is full of flowers and art and bells and birds…  It’s a total Seekender thing to do to visit an all but forgotten historic mission.

West Coast weekend trips are just the best.  We could go on and on and never stop making suggestions and sharing stories about the places we’ve discovered.  Being a Seekender and finding new ways to relax and explore just beyond your front door is something anybody can aspire to.  We always have, and thanks to partnering with Hampton by Hilton, we’re doing it more and more!

What do you think?  Ready to plot and plan a weekend trip to explore one of our favorite West Coast cities and get a recharge on life?  Where are you heading next?  Leave a note below to share or to point us towards our next adventure.

Erin Perkins

Wednesday 23rd of May 2018

So just because you hyped Bing Crosby movies I'll tell you this fun fact you may not know....Bing was one of the financiers behind the Del Mar Race Track and was there opening day. :D

Also, this is a great post! I love your ideas.

TWO WORLDS TREASURES

Explore Texas & beyond from Dallas/Ft. Worth

Best Trips Out West: Road Trip Itinerary

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission from the discount codes used or when a link/ad is clicked. All purchases made will come at no extra cost to you, and I only include products and services that I have personally used and would recommend. Also, Two Worlds Treasures is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Programs. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Trips out west is in every road tripper bucket list. Who doesn’t dream to hike to the famous Delicate Arch in Utah or see the Old Faithful shots its hot water to the air?

Our family got a chance to road tripping the west in the summer of 2015. Then we went again to visit part of the region the following years, and three years later when we drove from Denver to Moab. Still, we haven’t got to visit all the beauty places there. So, more trips out west in the future for us.

When we went in 2015, part of our trips out west was with a family friend who live in Utah. But that doesn’t mean they’ve been to Moab or Yellowstone before. It was their first time to both places. Hard to believe, right?

Also, we couldn’t get them committed long before the trip because of his work. By the time they agreed with the dates, I had to find accommodations for two families in less than a month. It’s not fun at all.

When I thought about it again, I think they didn’t understand that you need to make a plan ahead of time for this kind of trip. So, for the last 3 days of our trips out west, after we parted, we decided not to do any reservations at all. I was tired searching for accommodations in a last-minute. See where the adventure would take us.

Our starting point.

Since we left from Texas, we had to cross New Mexico to get to Utah. So, we stopped there for a couple of nights to visit places we didn’t get to see from our road trip to the Southwest the year before.

Below is our itinerary that you can follow on your trips out west. You can always adjust it, depending on how long you will be on the road or your starting point.

Remember! If you travel with others, make sure you are in the same path. You will find how inconvenient it is if you travel with people who you think are like you, but they aren’t.

Table of Contents:

• Best Road Trip Itinerary for the West
• Day 1: Tinkertown Museum & Sandia Peak in Albuquerque, New Mexico
• Day 2: Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument, Loretto Chapel, and Turquoise Trail in Albuquerque & Santa Fe, New Mexico
• Day 3: Wilson Arch & Arches National Park in Moab, Utah
• Day 4: Arches NP & Hole N’ The Rock in Moab, Utah
• Day 5: Arches NP & Canyonlands NP in Moab, Utah
• Day 6: Antelope Island State Park near Salt Lake City, Utah
• Day 7: Temple Square in Salt Lake City, Utah
• Day 8: Tony Grove Lake in Logan, Utah
• Day 9: Yellowstone National Park
• Day 10: Yellowstone NP, Grand Teton NP & Jackson Hole in Wyoming
• Day 11: Flaming Gorge Dam & Dinosaur National Monument in Vernal, Utah
• Day 12: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
• Day 13: Great Sand Dune National Park, Red River & Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico
• Day 14: Capulin Volcano National Monument in Capulin, New Mexico
• Tips for the Trips

Day 1: Home (North Texas) to Albuquerque, New Mexico (649 miles, about 9 h 30 m, different time zone at the destination.)

Places Visited:

• TINKERTOWN MUSEUM . I read about this museum from a parenting magazine. It’s a tiny museum filled with handmade dioramas of Old West scenes by its creator, Ross Ward, as well as antique toys. Pretty neat! Address: 121 Sandia Crest Rd., Sandia Park, NM 87047.
• SANDIA PEAK . We drove all the way to the top to see the city of Albuquerque from above, but we could only stay for a few minutes because summer storm started to hit us. It’s pretty common in the area during summer. Hope you will get better luck than us when you go.

Entrance Fee:

• Tinkertown Museum: Adults/Seniors: $6.00; Kids 4-16: $3.00; Kids Under 4: Free. Prices are subject to change.

Accommodation & Meals:

• Lots of hotels and restaurant to choose in Albuquerque that matched your budget. A couple of times we camped at Turquoise Trail Campground and RV Park in the Sandia Mountains, around 15 minutes from Albuquerque. Address: 22 Calvary Rd., Cedar Crest, NM 87008.

Day 2: Albuquerque & Santa Fe, NM.

• KASHA-KATUWE TENT ROCKS NATIONAL MONUMENT , Cochiti Pueblo. We finally got to see the unique rock formations at this park. The 1.5-mile, one-way trek into a narrow canyon with a steep (630 ft.) climb to the mesa top was so worth it. I would say this is a must-visit while in Albuquerque or Santa Fe area. Address: Jemez Springs, NM 87025.
• LORETTO CHAPEL , Santa Fe. The famous chapel with its unusual spiral staircase that has two 360 degrees turns and no visible means of support.   
• TURQUOISE TRAIL , a scenic route that connects Santa Fe and Albuquerque. We stopped at Madrid, an artists’ community and the location of the movie The Wild Hogs.
• Tent-Rocks is Free with National Park Pass; or $5 – private vehicles, group pass up to 25 individuals $25, 25-100 individuals $100.

As of April 13, 2021 update, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument remains closed due to Covid-19.  

• Stop at Cowgirl BBQ in Santa Fe for their Mother of Green Chile Cheeseburger.

Note: find out more about things to do and see around Albuquerque and Santa Fe here. You will find more info on National Monuments and museums in and around the cities. 

Day 3: Albuquerque, NM to Moab, Utah (365 miles, about 6 h).

• WILSON ARCH . When you see cars parking by the road on your road trip, you know there must be something that worth the stop. And yes, we’re glad we made the five minutes scramble up the red dirt to Wilson Arch. I felt like an ant under the arch. If you are a rock climber, you can climb to the top of the arch and rappel down. Address: Highway 191 south of Moab on BLM land. Less than a mile south of La Sal Junction.
• ARCHES NATIONAL PARK . After supper we made a quick trip to Arches. We stopped not too far from the gate and let the children climbing the rocks there. We named the giant rock formation in front of us “The Penguin” because they looked like ones. Then we drove around the park until it got dark. If you get to Moab late in the afternoon like us, I encourage you to go to Arches National Park and make a stop at places that are closer to the entrance. That way you save yourself some time for the next day.
• Wilson Arch is free.
• Arches NP: Free with National Park Pass; or $30 – private vehicle, $25 – motorcycle, $15 – individual on bicycle or foot. Good for 7 days.
• We rent a condo at the South Gate Village and cooked our own meals.
• Lots of hotels/condo/campground and restaurants that match your budget around Moab. On our second visit we stayed at a cabin in a RV Campground.

Note: It’s the first day when we met our friend and his family for this trips out west.

Day 4: Moab, Utah

• ARCHES NP . We went to see The Windows and after that our friends’ daughters wanted to go back to the condo so they could go back to their video game. Help!!! It’s not even 10 a.m. This is not what I had in mind for our trips out west. I wanted to cry because I didn’t see we could do all the things I had in my bucket list. We finally managed to stop at The Balanced Rock, Courthouse Towers, and Park Avenue. Then we stopped at downtown Moab for a window shopping and lunch.
• HOLE N’ THE ROCK . I was so upset, I preferred to go to Hole N” The Rock rather than swimming with the group. It’s a house build inside the rock, but I found it not too interesting. There’s not much to see in the house. So, you can skip it. Address: 11037 US-191, Moab, UT84532.
• Hole N” The Rock: House tours: – $6.50, Under 5 Free. Zoo: $4.25 per person, Under 2 years old Free.

Day 5: Moab, Utah

• ARCHES NP . Woke up early in the morning to hike to the Delicate Arch. Our friend offered to watch our son because he had a teleconference meeting at 8 a.m. and their daughters would stay in the condo with him. That’s not the option. Our son had to come with us and he praised the Delicate Arch as a master piece after he saw it, though he was whining all the way to the top because his friends were still sleeping when we left.
• CANYONLANDS NP . Made a quick loop in Island in the Sky district late in the afternoon. When you have a limited time like us, make sure you hike to Mesa Arch and walk to Grand View Point.
• Canyonlands NP: Free with National Park Pass; or $30 – private vehicle, $25 – motorcycle, $15 – individual on foot or bicycle. All good for seven days.

Day 6: Moab to Salt Lake City, Utah (234 miles, about 4 h).

Place Visited:

• ANTELOPE ISLAND STATE PARK . I floated in the smelly Great Salt Lake with brine shrimps and flies. It’s gross, far from my experience floating in the Dead Sea. You can skip floating here, but it’s a nice park to visit. Address: 4528 West 1700 South, I-15 exit #335, Syracuse, UT 84075.
• $15 per vehicle up to 8 people. Senior entrance fee (65 years of age) $10 per vehicle up to 8 people. Bicycles, Motorcycles, Pedestrians $3 per person.
• Lots of hotels and restaurants in Salt Lake City that match your budget.

Note: We spent a night in Salt Lake City while our friend and his family drove straight home to Logan, north of Salt Lake City.

Day 7: Salt Lake City to Logan, Utah (82.3 miles, about 1.5 h).

• TEMPLE SQUARE . This is an interesting place to learn about the Mormon Church. We also stopped at the LDS Genealogy and Family History Library, did a quick search on my husband’s great-grandfather. It’s free and I heard it’s one of the best library of its kind in the country. If you visit on Thursday, you can visit the famous Tabernacle Choir practice in the evening, for free.
• Lunch at The Garden Restaurant in the Temple Square. It has a best view of the square from the top. Today we stayed at our friend’s house in Logan, about an hour and a half to the north of Salt Lake City.

Day 8: Logan, Utah.

• TONY GROVE LAKE . We had a lovely hike in this picturesque mountain lake area. I felt like we were somewhere in Switzerland, although I haven’t been there yet. Haha.. Wish we could explore more though, but the 4th of July fireworks was awaiting us back in Logan. Address: Hwy 89 turnoff in Logan Canyon, about 15-16 miles from Logan.

Day 9: Logan, Utah to Ashton, Idaho (206 miles, about 3 h).

• YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK . After we checked in at the hotel in Ashton, we went to Yellowstone. Car line on the west entrance was quite long. We got to see the Old Faithful and tour the Upper Geyser Basin, drove to Mammoth Hot Springs, Tower Fall, and Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone before we went back to Ashton.
• Free with National Park Pass; or $35 – private vehicle, $30 – motorcycle/snowmobile, $20 – individual on foot, bicycle, ski, etc. Good for 7 days.
• We stayed in Ashton, Idaho because of late booking. Packed our lunch because we’re not sure whether we would be around restaurants inside the park during lunch time.

Day 10: Ashton, Idaho to Rock Springs, Wyoming (247 miles, about 5 hours).

• YELLOWSTONE NP, WY . Exploring more of Yellowstone between West Entrance and South Entrance that we didn’t get to visit the day before, while our friend went home to Utah.
• GRAND TETON NP, WY . Did a quick stop at the Teton.
• JACKSON HOLE, WY . Strolling around downtown of this ski resorts city in Wyoming. We made a hotel reservation for Rock Springs from here.
• Grand Teton NP: Free with National Park Pass; or $35 – private vehicle, $30 – motorcycle, $20 – individual on foot, bicycle, ski, etc. Good for 7 days.
• Roadside hotels and restaurants to choose that match your budget in Rock Springs.

Day 11 – Rock Springs, WY to Delta, CO (289 miles, about 5 h 30 m).

• FLAMING GORGE DAM , Utah. We did a tour here with a group of motorcyclist. They had to take off all of their metal accessories before joining the tour. I think our trips out west was getting interesting. Address: Southern end of Lake Flaming Gorge in northeastern Utah.
• DINOSAUR NATIONAL MONUMENT , Vernal, Utah. A cool place to see approximately 1,500 dinosaur bones on the wall. A must-see for dinosaur and fossil enthusiasts. Address: 11625 E 1500 S Jensen, Utah 84035.
• Flaming Gorge Dam is free.
• Dinosaur NM in Vernal, Utah: Free with National Park Pass; or $25 – private vehicle, $20 – motorcycle, $15 – individual on foot or bicycle. Good for 7 days.
• We stayed in Delta, CO. It was the first day of our no reservations trip.

Note: From Vernal we thought about going to Estes Park in Colorado, but hail and flash flood made us turned to a different direction. We ended up in Delta, Colorado and we never heard about this place before. While searching for the hotel, I saw there’s a National Park here. Woo hoo!

Day 12 – Delta to Alamosa, CO (222 miles, about 4 h).

• BLACK CANYON OF THE GUNNISON NATIONAL PARK . Probably one of the less visited National Park in the U.S., we found this park very interesting with its steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. And the park ranger took his telescope out while we were there, so we got to see the sun with its tongues flickering.
• Free with National Park Pass; or $30 – private vehicle, $25 –  motorcycle (maximum of two people), $15 – pedestrian/cyclist. Good for seven days. 16 & under free; Black Canyon Annual Pass: $55.
• Choices of hotels and restaurants in Alamosa, CO.

Day 13: Alamosa, CO to Capulin, NM (159 miles, about 2 h 30 m).

• GREAT SAND DUNE NATIONAL PARK & PRESERVE , Alamosa. Another National Park we found on our way home to Texas. We had a great time sledding on the sand, just like when we went to White Sands National Park in Alamogordo, New Mexico.
• RED RIVER, NM . A favorite place for Texan during winter, we saw people fishing everywhere along the river. I think that’s a favorite thing to do during summertime here. We stopped for an ice cream break and strolled a bit in downtown area.
• PHILMONT SCOUT RANCH, Cimarron, NM . My husband wanted to show Philmont Scout Ranch to our son. This is the base for the Boy Scout to backpacking to the top of Baldy Mountain. The Boy Scout Museum is also located here.
• Great Sand Dune NP is Free with National Park Pass; or $25/private vehicle, $20/motorcycle and riders, $15/person for over sized vehicle with 15+ passengers, ages 16+.
• Lots of restaurant along the way and we pitched a tent at Capulin RV Park. Yup! When we were searching for a hotel, a little voice from the back seat said, “Let’s camping! What’s the point of bringing a tent if we don’t use it?”

Day 14: Capulin, NM to home in North TX (540 miles, about 8 h).

• CAPULIN VOLCANO NATIONAL MONUMENT . I think it was our 5th time visiting this place. We just like it and this time we got to see a family of fox. They were so cute!
• Free with National Park Pass; or $20 – per private vehicle, $15 – per motorcycle and riders, $10 – per person arriving on foot or bicycle. Receipt valid for 7 days.

General tips for the trip :

• Buy a National Park pass for the trip that is also good for National Monument (cost $80).
• Booked hotels in advance, especially for Yellowstone NP.
• Find information online, from bloggers, magazines, and friends who’d been to those places or live around the area.
• AND, make sure you really know the members of your traveling mate.

So, whether you go West, Southwest, Midwest, South, or East Coast for your National Park road trip this coming vacation, make sure you read this 10 Best National Parks Vacation . It has complete information on what activities (like hiking, biking, or swimming) to do in the parks and where to stay in or near the parks.

Updated on March 20, 2020.

Thank you for sharing this:

Umiko Buhl is a travel blogger and the founder of Two Worlds Treasures. She travels around Texas to neighboring states and around the country with her family and dog from their family home in the south of Dallas/Fort Worth. Originally from Indonesia, she tries to go home every 2-3 years to spend time with her families and friends while exploring Indonesia. Her mission is to share her honest reviews of places she visited.

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48 Comments

Awesome article. We were there precisely one year ago… little did we know this year was going to be so different with no traveling due to Covid-19. Thanks for this article, it put a smile on my face! Marcella

Who would have thought everything will be different this year. I’m glad I could bring back your memories to these places.

That sounds like an amazing road trip! I used to live in Utah and I still haven’t been to Moab. I would love to visit.

So our friend and his family weren’t the only one. 🙂

I LOVE detailed road trip itineraries like this one! You included so much helpful information! I am saving this for our future trip to the parks! Thank you!

I’m glad you found it helpful.

A work friend is doing a “year of National Parks” and is visiting a new one every month. I’m totally sending him this post, he’ll love it. Meanwhile, you’re going to all of the parks that are on my bucket list! The tent rocks look so cool, I’d love to find out more about how they were formed!

Your friend is lucky to be able to do it once a month. I will be happy if you share this post to him.

That is quite the trip! I have seen delicate arch once before, it is very impressive. You have made me want to take my own road trip to some of these spots.

Parks at the West are amazing and makes you want to visit again and again.

Wow. That was quite the trip that you took. so many parks and what a beautiful area. I’ve explored a lot of Colorado and New Mexico myself but never been on a road trip quite this long to so many cool places sounds like you had a ton of fun

For part-time traveler like our family, we don’t have a freedom to go whenever we wanted to. It depends on time off from school and all the activities. So, this is one way to do it.

There is nothing like a good road trip! Thanks for sharing these great tips, there is so much to be explored in the West.

Never ending exploration.

Those cone shaped mountains are quite cool looking, Id like to go check thouse out… Love nationaol parks especially Banff, its my favorite..

Yeah, I like Kasha-Katuwe, the national monument that has cone shaped rocks. I haven’t been to Banff, but I must do it.

There’s just so much to see in do in the Western U.S.. What a great trip! Sounds like your family was able to see so much!!

And there are still so much that we haven’t seen yet. The western U.S. is a heaven for outdoor lovers.

Great detailed list here, have always wanted to do a road-trip through the US with a focus on all the amazing national parks. This seems like a great itinerary. Will certainly save for when this trip comes to light.

Thank you! I hope you will make it one day.

This is pretty much my dream itinerary – love living in New York but hate being so far (and usually a pretty pricey flight) away from all the weat coast national parks.

I understand that. I sometimes wish living in Colorado so it’s easier to go to all those national parks in the west.

Great compilation! There are so many parks on the west coast that it’s hard to see them all! So this is a great guide to seeing some of them.

Thank you, Amy!

I know that “sandia” is the Spanish word for watermelon… was there something particularly watermelon-like about Sandia Peak?

Honestly, I didn’t know that. But I will stop again next June, so I will find out about it. Thank you for giving me something to think about.

That’s such an amazing two-week trip! We’ve never made it to any parks out west, but I want to so badly. The pictures look amazing! I love that the US has so many gorgeous places to see…right in our own backyard! Which park was your favorite?

For this trip, I fell in love with Arches. It captivated me with its giant rocks formation the minute we drove to the park. I’ve never seen giant rocks like that before.

I’m hoping to do something similar to this soon (but from Denver, and to Grand Canyon instead of Yellowstone). Thanks for all the tips!

You are welcome! We’re going to Grand Canyon also this summer, then Colorado in July.

I did a similar impulse trip a couple of years back where I hit some of the same spots! I could spend forever in Utah, Wyoming, and Colorado. You should definitely try to make it to Montana too!

Montana and Idaho are our next destinations when we go up there again. So many parks to see, but the opportunity is not always taking us to that direction.

Wow! That looks like an awesome 14 days with minimal planning! I’m planning on doing Utah soon so will definitely keep your tips in mind!

It was crazy awesome! lol. I know that we need to do Utah only in the future. There are so much parks – National or States – to explore there.

My partner and I have been meaning to go park hopping! We love the park scene and the calmness of camping. I will be bookmarking this list to revisit with her. Thanks!

Awesome! I hope you will have a blast when the time is here.

You’re so lucky you have all these wonderful landmarks on your front door! I’ve seen many photos of Moab in Utah and think it’s spectacular! I also love those interesting rock formations, so unique and unlike any other I’ve seen before.

I know, right? But tell you what. I’m sad because most people I know don’t care about these wonderful landmarks. They only want to go to Disney, Paris, or New York. There’s nothing wrong with those places, but they need to open their mind for alternative destinations.

I can’t believe you did all that with no planning!! You should do that more often! the Hole n in the Rock and the Mammoth hot springs looked amazing. Kids look like they had a ball! Thanks for the awesome list!

It’s not the whole trip without reservations. Just the last 4 days and 3 nights. I can see we will do more in the future.

Wow! You sure got around in two week’s time! I love road trips and this is a great itinerary. We’ve done a lot of the things you covered in the south, but on up into Idaho is a dream of ours.

That’s what we like to do. Rest time is at night, or in the car. 🙂 We actually thought about going to Idaho this summer.

That was a great read! Your trips are similar to ours…always on the move! I will keep this in mind when we head to Utah and Colorado. This summer we are going to the Yellowstone, Teton and Glacier areas.

Good to hear from another family that has similar trip like us. I hope you will have ton of fun at those National Parks. I’ve never get enough of Yellowstone, and still have to explore Teton and visit Glacier.

This is a great well put-together itinerary. I love how you have gone into detail, given prices and drives times. I always find these details super useful. The landscapes and scenery look amazing too.

Thank you very much, Katie!

I can’t believe how much you packed into two weeks! I would love to know how you found floating in Great Salt Lake with those shrimps and flies? Was it gross or did you feel great and refreshed after.

Well, for us hotel is only for sleeping, shower, and breakfast. Then we spent the whole day outside. Maybe that’s why we could pack a lot in two weeks. Though in Moab we did stay in the condo during afternoon hours. And, floating in the Great Salt Lake was gross. But I was there already. So, just do it! lol.

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10 Best Weekend Getaways in the South & Southwest (USA)

Written by Michael Law Sep 21, 2021

The thought of a sunny southern weekend getaway makes the idea of dusting off the suitcase from the back of the closet an exciting endeavor. Depending on where you go, packing could include fun or fancy clothes, flip flops or heels, bathing suits or hiking shorts.

Easy flight connections from just about anywhere in the US are what most of these destinations have in common, which makes them perfect for a long weekend. Each city has something to entice you no matter your interests.

For dining, beaching, hiking, spiritual quests, romantic getaways, culture, music, history, or just lazing by the pool, these destinations will fit the bill. All the cities have a range of accommodation, from first-class resorts, to cozy bed and breakfasts, along with more mid-priced options as well.

Begin your planning with our list of the best weekend getaway destinations in the South and Southwest USA.

1. Savannah, Georgia

2. new orleans, louisiana, 3. phoenix, arizona, 4. key west, florida, 5. houston, texas, 6. miami, florida, 7. san antonio, texas, 8. sedona, arizona, 9. palm springs, california, 10. las vegas, nevada.

You can't help but wind down to a slower pace of life while in Savanah. Warm days and sultry nights encourage a languid pace of life and are the perfect antidote to your busy work life. Strolling hand in hand with your loved one under the massive Southern live oak trees hanging with Spanish moss makes for one of the most romantic getaways in the South.

Things to do in Savannah include wandering through the city's beautiful parks; browsing through eclectic shops and boutiques in the historic city center; then grabbing a long, lingering, lunch on a shady patio. Perhaps consider some pool time later on or a nap before dinner at one of the fine-dining spots, many set in historical buildings.

When visiting, base yourself in or near the historic center where you'll find a selection of hotels and resorts. Places here are not inexpensive; however, the setting and location are well worth the investment.

When planning a weekend getaway in the South, one of the first destinations that people think of is the Big Easy, aka New Orleans. The reasons for its popularity are easy to understand: New Orleans is built for good times - whether it's funky jazz music, spicy Cajun cooking, or the revelry that takes place on Bourbon Street , you'll probably end up staying up later than you think.

Must-sees when in town include the warren of streets and wonderfully restored buildings that make up the historical French Quarter , the trendy Warehouse District, and the mansions in the Garden District. No trip to New Orleans would be complete without a bag of beignets and a ride on an authentic paddlewheel steamer.

Part of the enjoyment of a visit to New Orleans is staying on one of the beautiful resorts spread throughout the old city. Many of these are in restored historical buildings, with charming exteriors and modern and exceptionally comfortable rooms.

Sitting pretty in the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix is perfect for just about any getaway you can imagine. With over 300 days of sun each year, this desert city is an ideal winter getaway destination for northerners tired of gray days. It's also incredibly easy to get to, with direct flights from all over North America.

Phoenix is full of things to do that range from world-class golf courses, NASCAR races, historical sites, and a lively dining scene. Don't forget about all the natural wonders nearby - the hiking here is spectacular as are some of the nearby lakes in the state .

Phoenix is fortunate to have an excellent assortment of luxury resorts that cater to your every whim. For those on a tighter budget, the city has an ample supply of mid-price hotels that always have good outdoor pools.

Accommodation: Best Resorts in Phoenix

Interested in an island getaway? What better place to soak up the sun and have some fun than Key West? The city is the highlight of a trip along the necklace of islands known as the Florida Keys. Fly into Miami and enjoy the scenery as you drive over the bridges and ocean towards the destination at the end of the road.

Key West embodies fun , and the best spot to find it is on lively Duvall Street, a long strip packed with shops and restaurants. Grab a selfie at the southernmost spot in the USA and then for something completely different stop by and see the six-toed cats at the Hemingway Home.

During the day, hit the beaches , or stay poolside at your resort, but evenings are for sunsets at Mallory Square and good times at an open-air restaurant or patio that will lull you into staying out late in the warm Caribbean night air.

If you're interested in visiting a large city with all the perks that go with that, Houston is the perfect place for a weekend getaway . Although the city is huge, it has some amazing neighborhoods, parks, and unique tourist attractions that will keep you entertained.

Home to up-and-coming and world-class chefs, Houston has an outstanding culinary scene. Foodies should put this city on their list of places to visit. Culture vultures will be right at home in Houston's Museum District with 19 museums to visit, of which 11 are free.

One of the city's main attractions is Space Center Houston , where you can learn about space travel and see replicas of the space shuttles and America's first orbiting structure, Skylab.

Just a little over a half-hour drive from the Space Center are the beautiful beaches of Galveston , both of which can be combined for a full day of fun.

This city pulses with the lust for living life to the max. Let the Miami vibe, with its heat and new scenes, unshackle you from the day-to-day worries of your life.

During the day, head directly to South Beach, one of the best beaches in Miami , which is packed with beautiful people doing their thing. At night, the area transforms as the glow from neon lights gives the place a soft-focus feel. This is the place to see and be seen either by snagging a patio seat at one of the restaurants or casually strolling the promenade along Ocean Drive.

Little Havana is not to be missed. A visit to Calle Ocho, has all the best Cuba has to offer, including music, food, and fun.

For a bit of retail therapy, head to the Bayside Market, where you'll find over 150 shops selling pretty much anything you can imagine or want. Grab lunch here at one of the waterfront restaurants and recap your activities from the night before.

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Miami

One of the many top things to do in San Antonio is eat. The city is one of the true epicurean centers of Texas and should be the destination of choice for foodies intent on a weekend of feasting and fun. Home to a campus of the CIA ( Culinary Institute of America), the city is a hot spot destination for the world's up-and-coming chefs.

Head to the Pearl District to find restored buildings housing some of the trendiest and hip restaurants in the city whose patios spill out onto the pedestrian-only streets. For some of the best Mexican food, head to Market Square and the immense Mi Tierra Café Y Panderia. This restaurant is so large that it takes up an entire city block.

To work off all the fine food and good times, be sure to visit the famous Riverwalk . This wonderful area is shady and cool and chock-full of interesting shops and even more restaurants. Continue along the waterside trails, and you'll eventually end up at The Alamo.

For travelers looking for a getaway in the Southwest that does not involve staying in a big city, Sedona is a great choice. A weekend trip to the scenic small town of Sedona, AZ can take many directions. For those looking for spiritual enlightenment, the city is home to energy vortexes, and a visit to one of these might provide the direction you may be seeking.

Those interested in less esoteric pursuits may want to lace up their hiking boots and tackle one of Sedona's famous hikes , or strap on their helmet and hit the world-class mountain bike trails .

If that all seems a bit too much, consider checking into one of Sedona's luxe resorts and making your days about trips to the spa and poolside lounging. If you're on a serious budget, camp at one of the nearby campgrounds , many of which are in spectacular settings.

Sedona is an easy two-hour drive from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.

Famous for its laid-back atmosphere, iconic mid-century modern architecture, and proximity to Los Angeles, Palm Springs is an easy weekend getaway . Its enviable location in the desert has long made Palm Springs a magnet for sun-starved northerners from November through April. The city is famous for its upper-end resorts and spas, and a weekend here could be the cure for all that ails you.

Pack your golf clubs, swimsuits, hiking boots, and best going-out clothes - the city has something for everyone. Music fan? Plan a trip around one of the famous music festivals that take place nearby, namely Coachella and Stagecoach, or if you are into design, come during February's Modernism Week.

Hikers will want to take the famous Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the mountain station at an elevation of 8,516 feet and set out on over 50 miles of hiking trails in beautiful pine forests.

Palm Springs' main street has a diverse set of restaurants, most with patios. Grab a prime table and engage in some serious people watching while enjoying fine cuisine.

A list of places for a sunny getaway would be incomplete without the most popular weekend destination of all: Las Vegas . No city is better set up to get you from the airport to your hotel to having fun in the shortest span of time. Those flying from the East Coast get the added benefit of adding three bonus hours to their weekend as soon as they land!

Thousands of hotel rooms, ranging from the most luxurious to the most basic (and even some that are pet-friendly) await the planeloads of fun seekers that enjoy great air connections from across the United States. Las Vegas is also an easy four-hour drive from the Los Angeles area on Interstate 15.

What to do when you get there? Well, deciding may be the hardest decision you'll need to make during your weekend, as your options are almost limitless. You could start with some pool time, or perhaps check out the free attractions, like the fountains in front of the Bellagio.

Always wanted to see the Grand Canyon ? Fly away in a helicopter and get a once in a lifetime view of one of the world's greatest natural wonders. If that isn't enough, why not jump off the Stratosphere Tower 829 feet above The Strip.

Las Vegas isn't all about manmade fun, the city is close to wonderful hiking trails , and a day trip to Death Valley is also an option.

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The Ultimate 2 Week West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

The American West Coast is undoubtedly one of the most incredible road trip destinations in the United States , if not the world.

It really has a distinct identity all on its own, picture gorgeous red rock formations as tall as the sky, colorful sweeping canyons, long dusty roads lined with cacti, and vast native American culture.

It’s easy to understand why people fall in love with this place as it is like no other.

To truly explore this place in depth you really need an entire month. I only had two weeks to explore this incredible area and was determined to hit all the best places possible.

Ready to feel the wind in your hair? Buckle in, as I’m here to share with you my West Coast adventures and how you can also explore this fantastic part of the world with my complete 2-week West Coast USA itinerary.

Ready to hit the open road? From Monument Valley to sunny Palm Springs this unforgettable 2-week West Coast USA itinerary has it all. 

Geographically the West Coast includes states such as Washington, Oregon & California however, I decided to throw Utah into the mix and make this a West Coast/South West kinda road trip.

The trip begins in Los Angeles , travels through Utah and Arizona, and ends in Los Angeles, California.

You can easily explore this west coast itinerary in reverse as it is just one big loop. That said you can modify this road trip to add more cities or national parks if you have more time to explore.

2 Week West Coast USA Itinerary Outline

Stop 1: los angeles.

Stop 2: Palm Springs

Stop 3: Las Vegas

Stop 4: Bryce Canyon National Park

Stop 5: Moab, Utah

Stop 6: Monument Valley

Stop 7: Page, Arizona

Stop 8: Zion National Park

Stop 9: Las Vegas

Stop 10: Los Angeles

One thing I do recommend doing before exploring any of the national parks is to get yourself an Annual Parks Pass.

This $80 park pass will grant you entry to many of the national parks in the United States and will save you a ton on entry fees.

Some popular parks, trails, and attractions may require a reservation or permit. Check out Travel in the USA’s article for parks that require a reservation for 2023.

Car, Camper, or RV?

For this 2-week West Coast USA itinerary, you will most likely need a car or RV-style camper. The west is very accustomed to this style of travel. We traveled in our converted campervan, and it was so much fun.

Websites like Cruise America and RVshare are great if you’re looking to book an RV for your road trip.

Not a big fan of camping? You can always rent a car and stay in hotels along the way. Kayak has some great deals on car rentals, I also like to use rentalcars.com as well.

Best time of year for a 2-week USA West Coast Road Trip?

You can follow this 2 week West Coast USA itinerary at any time however, there are definitely better times of the year to visit than others.

In my opinion, the best time to visit out west is in the early Fall and Spring seasons.

The temperatures are milder, which makes hiking and other outdoor activities more enjoyable. We visited during the tail end of the summer, and the temperatures were still very high 100°F (38°C). With this in mind, I wouldn’t recommend this time as it’s just too hot for comfort.

Accommodation: Hotel Ziggy West Hollywood

I personally recommend starting and ending your trip in Los Angeles, California. This is for a few reasons, you won’t have to deal with one-way costs of car rentals, and there are always cheaper and more affordable flights from LAX Airport.

Los Angeles is a major city with a direct international airport making it the perfect hub for many international tourists visiting the United States.

If you decide to use a rental car service kayak is a great place to start and compare prices and if you are feeling extra adventurous consider hiring a camper van , true road trip style!

Los Angeles is a HUGE city with a lot to offer, you will want to spend at least 1-2 days exploring the highlights such as Venice Beach, West Hollywood, and Santa Monica.

West Hollywood

Known to the locals as “WeHo” this fun and vibrant Los Angeles suburb is right in the middle of everything making it the perfect starting point for exploring LA. Check out below my top things to see and do in West Hollywood.

Hollywood Bowl

Nestled in the Hollywood Hills is LA’s Hollywood Bowl an amphitheater used for live concerts. Since its opening in 1922, the bowl has been the epicenter for live music in Southern California. Check here for tickets and showings.

Griffith Park

Home to the Griffith Observatory , Los Angeles Zoo , Autry Museum , and of course the iconic Hollywood Sign. Griffith Park is the best way to see Los Angeles from above. The observatory is a great spot to discover outer-space exhibits and the surrounding hiking trails offer stellar views of the entire Los Angeles valley below.

Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Nothing screams more iconic than hiking to the famous Hollywood Sign. Choose from 3 hiking routes the Mt. Hollywood Trail, Canyon Boulevard Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail. The hike is roughly 2-3 hrs roundtrip including the walk to the trailhead.

I can’t think of a better way to enjoy the great outdoors, it’s my favorite hike in all of Los Angeles, and it’s certainly worth adding to your Los Angeles bucket list.

Read more 

The ultimate 3-day itinerary for los angeles , lacma and academy museum of motion pictures.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art aka “LACMA” is located on Museum Row, adjacent to the La Brea Tar Pits. The museum features great art displays from ancient periods right up to the present day.

Don’t miss taking a photo at the popular Urban Light display out front of the museum.

Just a short walk from the LACMA is the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures another excellent museum filled with Hollywood movie props, cultural exhibits, and more.

This a great place if you are into the art of movie making and film, there is always something fun and exciting happening at the Academy Museum.

Santa Monica & Venice Beach

Exploring LA wouldn’t be complete without a quick visit to Santa Monica and Venice. Don’t miss exploring the Santa Monica Pier and its famous Pacific Park, it’s also worth waiting to watch the sunset from the beach.

Lastly, to end your day in Venice, I highly recommend hiring a bike and leisurely riding along the boardwalk to Venice Beach from the Santa Monica Pier. Be sure to check out the highlights such as the famous Venice Beach Sign, Abbott Kinny Boulevard, and Venice Canals.

Los Angeles’s beaches are not to be missed. If you have extra time I also recommend visiting Malibu, it’s about 45 mins from West Hollywood and is known for its beautiful beaches and celebrity homes.

Stop 2: Los Angeles to Palm Springs

Drive time: 1hr 46mins

Accommodation: Outdoor Resort Palm Springs

The next stop on this West Coast road trip itinerary is Plam Springs. This gorgeous town is filled with beautiful palm trees, and boutique restaurants and not to mention has a stellar collection of mid-century modern homes.

It’s the quintessential oasis for relaxing and outdoor adventures.

Spend a full day exploring the town and its top highlights. You can wander downtown and explore the many boutique cafes and restaurants or rent a bike and leisurely ride around the neighborhoods admiring the stunning mid-century modern architecture.

The Best Summer Weekend Getaways In The USA

Palm Springs located in the Coachella Valley has so much to offer. Check out below my top things to do in Plam Springs.

Palm Springs Visitor Centre

Albert Frey’s Ariel Tramway is a Palm Springs landmark and is also home to the Palm Springs Infomation Centre. The center is touristy but totally worth checking out, here you can find souvenirs, maps, and apparel for sale.

Moorten Botanical Gardens

This place is cacti heaven! The garden showcases over 3000 different species of desert cacti and plants. Enjoy strolling through the garden and learning about all the different succulents and desert plants and the areas in which they grow.

Joshua Tree National Park

If you get enough time, I highly recommend exploring the natural beauty of Joshua Tree National Park. Joshua Tree displays a fascinating variety of plants and rock formations which are native to the Mojave Desert.

Be sure to check out the many hiking trails within the park, my favorite spot is the beautiful Cholla Cactus Garden, but be careful walking through you don’t want these prickly guys to touch you.

Stop 3: Palm Springs to Las Vegas

Drive time: 3hrs 56mins

Accommodation: Wynn Las Vegas  

On day three you will want to get up for an early morning start, as the drive from Palm Springs to Las Vegas is roughly 4hrs.

Since Vegas is so iconic I could not put it on my list of places to see, it wouldn’t be a West Coast road trip without it am I right?

You’ll want to spend the whole day exploring the area, and if it’s your first time in Las Vegas, then I highly recommend staying on the strip amongst all the glitz and glamor.

The list of top things to see and do in Vegas is endless, and there is always something for everyone.

Vegas is known for its live shows, gambling, fine dining, and glamorous nightlife. Be sure to check out the many strip hotels, each with its own unique theming.

Don’t miss popular attractions such as the Bellagio Fountain Display and of course, snap a selfie at the famous Welcome to fabulous Las Vegas sign.

Regarding restaurants, Vegas is well known for its Michelin-star dining and of course buffets. If you’re looking for the best all-you-can-eat, hit up the buffet at the Wynn Hotel, It’s absolutely incredible.

Stop 4: Las Vegas to Bryce Canyon

Drive time: 4hrs 

Accommodation: Bryce Canyon National Park Campground

Utah is home to many incredible national parks with Bryce Canyon being one of them. This impressive national park is full of unique rock formations, fantastic hiking trails, and the most spectacular views you will ever see.

Bryce Canyon is so underrated, and like no other park, I have visited. The best thing about Bryce Canyon National Park is that you only need a day or two to explore its surroundings fully.

Bryce Canyon is one of those parks that can be explored in just one day, however, you will want to spend at least two, so you can really make the most of the park. Allowing two days will let you see a sunset when you arrive and a sunrise the next morning.

When it comes to choosing a hiking trail, honestly they are all pretty amazing so you really can’t go wrong. See below my Bryce Canyon itinerary and how to make the most of your two days at the park.

Visitors Center

Start your day off at the Visitors Center. Here you can get some trail maps, check the weather conditions of the park, and any souvenirs you wish to buy. The rangers here can help you if you have any questions.

The Visitors Center is also the central hub for the park shuttle, it’s free to catch and commutes guests to the most popular overlooks, amenities, and trailheads.

Hike the Navajo Loop and Queens Garden Trail

The best hike in the park and also my favorite is the Navajo Loop paired with the Queens Garden Trail. Starting at Sunset Point, begin your hike on the Navajo Loop Trail, connect with the Queens Garden Trail, and finish at Sunrise Point.

Walk back to your car via the Bryce Canyon Rim Trail. The total length of the hike is 2.9 miles (4.6 km) and has an elevation gain of 515 feet (157 m). The hike should take around 1-2 hrs to complete, depending on your fitness level.

Drive to Bryce Point

Hop in the car for a short drive to the Bryce Point Parking Lot. Spend some time taking in the incredible views and surroundings.

Watch the Sunset at Sunrise Point

Your last stop of the day! Head back towards the Vistors Center stopping at Sunrise Point. Weirdly enough, I personally think the best spot for viewing the sunset is Sunrise Point. It’s a definite must-see from here, and the views won’t disappoint.

Watch the Sunrise at Sunset Point

Kick off your last day at Sunset Point to watch the sunrise. If you’re not a morning person I totally get it I’m not an early bird either however, I do like to make exceptions at places I feel I may only ever get to see once and it’s always 100% worth it once you’re there.

Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive

It’s time to cruise along the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive. The drive starts at the Visitors Center and ends at Rainbow Point. The route is a 38-mile round-trip scenic drive with 13 viewpoints, each offering slightly different views.

I recommend driving all the way to Rainbow Point and then stopping at the viewpoints on your way back down. My favorite overlooks were Natural Bridge, Black Birch Canyon & Agua Canyon.

Lunch at Bryce Canyon Lodge

Stop for lunch at the Bryce Canyon Lodge. The dining at The Lodge offers a wide variety of food options. We actually ate here twice when we visited the park it was that good.

Breakfast is served from 7.30 am to 10 am, lunch is from 11.30 to 3 pm, and dinner is from 5 pm to 9 pm. Seating in on a first come first serve basis.

Hike Mossy Cave Trail

This is your last stop in Bryce Canyon before heading to your next location, this stop is also optional depending on how much time you have. Mossy Cave Trail is located just outside the main park entrance in the northern section of the park on Highway 12.

This beautiful hiking trail follows a stream to a mossy cave (hence the trail name). With only a 300 ft elevation gain this trail is considered easy according to the National Park Service.

Stop 5: Bryce Canyon to Moab

Drive time: 4hrs 20mins

Accommodation: Free Dispersed Camping and Willow Flat Campground

Moab, Utah is the ultimate hub for adventure seekers, campers, and photographers. It’s home to two of the most famous national parks in the United States Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park.

When I first arrived at this place, I remember feeling so at home as it felt similar to my hometown in Australia (minus the amazing rocks & canyons). The vibes were very chill here, and all the locals were super friendly and welcoming.

If this is your first time visiting the area, well you’re in for a treat. Explore the many parks, rivers, and hiking trails that boast Moab’s dramatic scenery.

The one great thing about Moab is just how close the two national parks are, Arches is roughly 5 miles (8 km) from the center of town, and Canyonlands is 30.2 miles (48 km) from town.

You could easily spend a whole week here and not see everything however, you can cover many of the park’s highlights without even leaving your car.

Arches National Park

Arches is a relatively small national park, the downside to this is that the park can become very busy during the high seasons.

I recommend starting your hikes super early in the morning or later in the afternoon. This is also good for high-heat conditions if you visit during summer.

Double Arch

Hiking to Double Arch is one of the many popular hiking trails within Arches, visitors love this trail, and for a good reason. Double Arch is a short, primarily flat hiking trail that leads hikers to a double-arch rock formation.

This arch may look small from the car park however, the sheer size of the arch becomes super clear the closer you get to it. It’s absolutely massive! It’s also considered the third-largest arch opening in the entire park.

The hike is a 0.8-mile (1.2 km) round trip and is considered an easy trail.

Delicate Arch

The arch with the most attention goes to Delicate Arch. It’s the arch you see all over social media and is undoubtedly one of North America’s most famous rock arches .

It certainly wouldn’t be a 2-week west coast USA itinerary without a visit to this spot. For the best views go at sunset and watch the stars come out making the arch glow in the afternoon light.

Be careful on your way back down as you will be hiking in the dark, be sure to have your hiking essentials with you like a headlamp and compass.

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Sand dune arch.

Another must-do hiking trail is Sand Dune Arch. It’s considered easy and takes literally 15 mins to complete.

This popular trail leads hikers to a secluded arch between tall sandstone walls. While the trail is mostly level, you do have to walk on soft sand and hike between narrow openings.

The roundtrip distance for this trail is 0.4 miles (0.6 km) with zero elevation gain.

The Windows Primitive Loop

Last up we have The Windows. This trail consists of three arches along a short 1-mile scenic loop. This hike is best viewed at sunrise or during the afternoon at sunset.

The trail starts at the North Window and then heads to the South Window. On the way to the North Window, you can also take a side detour to the south to view Turret Arch.

Canyonlands National Park

Located 30 mins from Moab, Canyonlands National Park is known for its impressive desert landscape carved out by the Colorado River. Canyonlands consists of three major land districts the Island in the Sky, The Needles, and The Maze.

If your coming from Moab, your best option is to visit the Island in the Sky portion. This is the most visited section of the park and the most accessible from the north.

If you have more time on your hands, you can definitely check out the other two areas, these are sometimes overlooked and have unique hiking trails and breathtaking views of the surrounding canyons.

My recommendations below are for the Island of the Sky as that’s where I visited on my west coast trip and what I suggest if you are short on time.

Drive the Scenic Route

Starting at the Visitors Center drive the entire 34-mile (54.7 km) Grand View Scenic Route stopping at all the amazing overlooks on the way. Starting at Shafer Canyon Overlook and ending at Grand View Point Overlook.

My all-time favorite overlook is Green River Overlook, featured above, especially at sunset. The overlook is located just past the Willows Flat Campground and showcases some of the best views of the two mighty rivers.

A great short trail to check out is Mesa Arch. Mesa is the perfect trail for families and beginner hikers. It’s a 0.5-mile (0.8 km) loop and ends at a stunning 500 ft (152.4 m) cliff with a view of White Rim through the rock arch.

This arch is best viewed at Sunrise as the sun glows directly through the arch in the early morning. If you plan to hike at sunrise, be very careful as the trailhead can become very busy during this time.

Please note that there are no railings at the arch to prevent fatal falls and always remember not to climb on the arches themselves.

Grand View Point Overlook

Another short trail worth checking out is at the Grand View Point Overlook. The trail displays spectacular panoramic views as you follow the canyon’s edge. The elevation of this hike is 73 ft (22 m) and takes around 1.5 hrs to complete.

Dead Horse State Park

Roughly 10 mins from the main entrance to Canyonlands you will see Hwy 313 which will lead to Dead Horse State Park. I highly recommend visiting if you have some spare time.

Dead Horse Point Overlook is absolutely incredible and totally worth checking out.

Stop 6: Moab to Monument Valley

Drive time: 2hrs 40mins

Accommodation: Goosenecks State Park

Next, we have Monument Valley, one of America’s most famous and magnificent landscapes. Much of its natural beauty can be experienced by driving its scenic routes which pass by many notable landmarks and features.

I couldn’t be more amazed by its natural wonders, Monument Valley has been on my list of must-visit places for a long time, and I can honestly say it did not disappoint.

Monument Valley is a 17-mile (27.3 km) road that starts at the Vistors Center and weaves its way through the valley.

Highlights of the valley include the Mitten Buttes, the Three Sisters, the Totem Pole, and the famous Forrest Gump Hill.

Spend the day enjoying a long drive through Monument Valley on Valley Drive soaking in the stunning vistas in all directions. The drive is roughly 3-4 hours and costs about $20.00 to enter.

Driving through the valley truly feels like your driving through an old classic Hollywood western. Fun Fact: It wasn’t until John Ford featured Monument Valley in his films that it started to gain major popularity in the movie industry.

It’s now been shown in many iconic films such as Forrest Gump, National Lampoons Vacation, Back to the Future Part 3, and Mission Impossible 2.

The perfect place to catch the sunrise in Monument Valley is at Forrest Gump Hill, this spot makes for the best photos as it’s the main viewpoint of the road leading up to the rock formations that makes up the valley itself.

Goosenecks State Park

Another excellent place to check out is Goosenecks State Park, it’s located just north of Mexcian Hat and is roughly 20 mins from Monument Valley’s Forrest Gump Point.

The state park overlooks an impressive deep meander (a meander being a series of strenuous curves in a river channel).

Look down the San Juan River 1,000 ft (304.8 m) below you and see the results of millions of years of geological erosion.

Stop 7: Monument Valley to Page, Arizona

Drive time: 2hrs 

Accommodation: Beehive Campground

Hello Arizona! The perfect thing about Page, Arizona is that it’s the main hub for the best things to do in the great American South West.

Page is a small northern Arizona town home to many unique attractions including Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, and Lake Powell.

With so many fun activities to choose from it can be hard to pick just a few when exploring the town of Page. With plenty of adventure opportunities, check out my top recommendations on what to see and do.

Horseshoe Bend

Definitely, the most popular attraction at Page is Horseshoe Bend. The overlook at Horseshoe is an iconic landmark and displays an impressive view of the Colorado River below.

The hike to the overlook is about 1.5 miles (2.4 km) roundtrip, costing $20.00 to enter.

This beautiful meander was a lot bigger than I expected and super busy. Regardless of the season, Horseshoe becomes extremely busy during sunset.

I highly suggest visiting super early in the morning, to avoid the crowds. Aim to get there at 8 am when the car park opens. Another reason for going early is to beat the heat, during the summer months the heat can become intense.

Horseshoe Bend is very exposed, and the trail there and back provides little to no shade. So be prepared.

Antelope Canyon

Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon is a stunning slot canyon that has been shaped by millions of years of water and erosion. It was named after the herds of pronghorn antelope that once roamed the nearby area.

Certain areas of Antelope Canyon can only be accessed via a guided tour. You can visit two areas of the slot canyon: Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon.

When people refer to Antelope Canyon in general, they usually refer to the Upper Canyon.

Which is better to explore, lower or upper? The Upper Canyon is a lot smaller, and darker and takes on more tours however it is the most photogenic of the two.

The Lower Canyon is a lot brighter with more light shining in, it has stairways, and it is more fun to visit.

If Antelope Canyon is on your bucket list, I recommend booking your tour well in advance, so you don’t miss out. Antelope Canyon is becoming more popular than ever, because of this it’s super important to book your tickets ASAP.

Stop 8: Page to Zion National Park

Drive time: 1hr 44mins

Accommodation: Free Dispersed Camping , or Zion NP Campgrounds

Zion National Park is one of the most incredible and unique places on planet earth. The highlight of Zion is of course its 2000 ft (609.6 m) sandstone cliffs which are considered a climbers paradise.

Located on State Route 9 in Springdale, Utah Zion National Park is a bucket list destination for many outdoor enthusiasts.

It’s ranked the second most visited park in the United States reaching an average of 5 million visitors per year.

The park’s dramatic landscape features many slot canyons, natural arches, and hiking trails that people from all over the world come to experience.

Its top highlights include The Narrows, Angels Landing, Observation Point, and of course its crown jewel Zion Canyon.

Ideally, you will want to spend 2-3 days exploring Zion National Park. This will give you enough time to see the top highlights and hike some of the longer trails within the park.

See below my ideal 2-day itinerary at Zion National Park.

Head down to the Visitors Center to plan out your activities. Here you can collect maps, check hiking trail conditions, and stock up on souvenirs.

With only 2 days to explore the park, getting an early start for the best experience is critical.

Plan to have at least one big activity per day and end with a few smaller ones. For most this is either hiking The Narrows or Angels Landing two of the most popular hikes in the park.

The Narrows

The narrowest section of Zion Canyon is The Narrows (hence the name). It’s a beautiful hike through the Virgin River passing by enormous canyon walls that have eroded into beautiful rock forms.

This is a wet hike! Expect to be in wading through water for 90% of the time. Be ready for slippery cobbles in water that may be waist-deep and quite cold.

Bring river shoes that you’re okay with getting wet. Alternatively, you can rent neoprene river shoes at the Zion Outfitters

Depending on how far you go, the hike is 5 to 9.4 miles (8 to 15.1 km) roundtrip and can take hikers anywhere between 3 to 7+ hours to complete.

The trailhead starts at the Temple of Sinawava Parking Lot. Please note there are potential hazards when hiking this trail, see here for more information.

Stop for lunch at the Zion Brewery, before heading out for a few smaller hikes to end your first day in Zion.

The Pa’rus Trail

A very short and easy hike! This beautiful paved trail starts at the park’s southern entrance and heads to Canyon Junction, showcasing stunning views of The Watchman along the way.

The Pa’rus Trail is considered an easy route 3.5 miles (5.6 km) roundtrip and takes an average of 1-2 hours to complete.

The Emerald Pools Trail Head

The lower, middle, and upper Emerald Pools are relatively easy to moderate trails that consist of 3 main sections. The trail follows a small lush stream that collects in a series of “pools.”

Hikers can choose to visit the Lower Pool Trail, the Middle & Upper Pool Trail, or combine all three trails. It takes 2.5 miles (4 km) roundtrip to hike all three. The hike time for the Emeralds is roughly 1 hour.

End your day at Canyon Junction or hike the Watchman Trail. Both spots have incredible views and are best seen at sunset.

The Canyon Overlook Trail

This great little trail leads up to a viewpoint overlooking the entire Zion Canyon below. Located just past the Zion Carmel Tunnel you will find a small car park, this is the start of the Canyon Overlook Trail.

It’s easy to reach and relatively flat, making it quite popular for many hikers. It’s about 1 mile (1.6 km) roundtrip and takes about 1 hour to complete.

Be sure to reach the overlook before sunset the mountain will capture the sun well before it sets. For this, you will want to ensure you’re not walking back in the dark if you do remember to bring a headlamp with you.

Angels Landing

End your last day in Zion with a bang and hike to Angels Landing. It’s the most popular and well-known hike in all of Zion. Yet it’s one of the most strenuous and dangerous hikes you can do in the park.

With 1630 ft (496.8 m) of elevation gain, this hike is not for the faint-hearted. This 5-mile (8 km) hike will take you along a daring ridgeline of a monolith that overlooks the entire Zion Canyon.

At its peak, there are no guard rails which can be quite daunting for some as hikers are already 1,000 ft (304.8 m) above ground at this point. However, the hike to Angels Landing is truly rewarding and offers some of the most spectacular views.

Please note, you do need a permit to hike this trail. The trail is 5.4 miles (8.6 km) roundtrip and is considered difficult. Depending on your hiking level, the trail can take 2-4 hours to complete.

End your afternoon with a scenic drive through Zion before heading to your next destination.

Hwy 9 to Mt. Carmel Junction

This gorgeous scenic byway runs directly through Zion National Park. It winds past the Visitors Center and many famous landmarks.

If hiking isn’t your thing, this is one of the best ways to see and enjoy the park. Take the time to stop at all the overlooks and be sure to have your camera ready. Zion is a photographer’s dream.

Stop 9: Zion National Park to Las Vegas

Drive time: 2hrs 42mins

Accommodation: The Bellagio Hotel

To end your 2-week West Coast USA itinerary, head back to LA via Las Vegas, exploring new areas of the city and surrounding landmarks.

Spend your day exploring Downtown Las Vegas, and visiting the Hover Dam and Grand Canyon.

Downtown Las Vegas

Vegas has more to see than just the strip! Head to downtown Las Vegas and explore the historic heart of the city. Downtown Las Vegas is known for its bustling casinos, museums, and glitzy cocktail bars.

Be sure to check out places like the Mob Museum , Seven Magic Mountains, The Neon Museum , Fremont Street, and Las Vegas’s oldest casino the Golden Gate Hotel & Casino.

Grand Canyon National Park

A 2-week road trip out west isn’t complete without visiting this iconic park. Grand Canyon National Park is the most recognizable and popular landscape in the United States if not the world.

The Grand Canyon is a whooping 1,904 square miles in total and is 18 miles (28.9 km) at its widest.

The Canyon is divided into 4 sections the South Rim, North Rim, West Rim, and East Rim. Coming from Las Vegas the closest entry to the park is via the West Rim.

This is where the famous skywalk is located. A glass horseshoe-shaped skywalk that dramatically extends over the canyon ledge.

There are endless things to see and do at the Gand Canyon including hiking, river rafting, walking the historic district, guided tours , and more.

The Hoover Dam

Another great attraction worth checking out is the famous Hoover Dam. The Hoover Dam is a gigantic concrete dam located at the Arizona/Nevada border near the Colorado River.

Named in honor of President Herbert Hoover, the dam controls the flooding of the Colorado River and provides water to over 16,000,000 people.

Power generated by the dam also provides energy to over 500,000 homes in the states of California, Nevada & Arizona. The Hoover Dam is a short 30 min drive from the Las Vegas strip and is a fun activity to add to your USA road trip itinerary.

The Hoover Dam’s massive size is without compression, be sure to  book a tour of this incredible man-made wonder.

Stop 10: Las Vegas to Los Angeles

Drive time: 4hrs 7mins

Accommodation: Level Los Angeles Hotel

Los Angeles is the perfect place to end your road trip! Now is the time to explore other fun attractions of LA that you may have missed on your first two days.

From theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios to Hollywood Boulevard and Beverly Hills, Los Angeles is a city that keeps on giving.

Coming up with the perfect 2 week West Coast USA itinerary is almost impossible. There is so much to see and do that you can make this road trip as eventful or relaxing as you like.

I hope my 2-week West Coast itinerary has given you some major inspiration and made things a lot easier for you to create your own incredible road trip! I had a trip of a lifetime doing this, and I’m sure you will as well.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below, what tips do you have for crafting your own 2 week West Coast USA itinerary?

Just a heads up! This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission that helps support this blog.

You will not pay more when you buy through these links. All opinions are my own, and I would never recommend anything I don’t personally love.

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Thank you! It’s definitely one of those bucket list road trips for sure

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How To Plan A Trip Out West in 2024: Your Complete Guide

Oh, the wild west! Whether you want to road trip along the Kenai Peninsula, spot wildlife in Yellowstone National Park, or stroll through the vibrant Grand Canyon, there's much to explore. But with so much scattered around, is it possible to see it all? Let's break down the steps and start planning your next adventure out west.

From navigating the national parks and diving into history-rich museums to feeling the city buzz and dipping into the rugged coastline, you're spoilt for choice. Whether it's a peaceful retreat or an adrenaline-fueled vacation, there's no doubt you'll find it here. 

But with a hefty handful of things to do in the west, how can you squeeze it all in? Maybe you're heading out on a 7-day trip out west, or perhaps you're thinking about a 3-week road trip… This in-depth guide will take you through everything you need to know. Here's how to plan a trip out west! 

Step 1. Decide when you want to head out west 

How many days do you need for a road trip out west? The answer you're looking for depends highly on you. It's about your preferences, travel style, the attractions you want to see, and the activities you want to do. The best time of year to road trip out west can vary greatly depending on these factors. 

Planning a trip out west any time of the year can offer many pros and cons. Each season hosts unique experiences, like shredding on snowy slopes in winter or hiking in spring.  

The west is well-known for its sublime scenery, and an ideal time to explore is during the shoulder seasons. The springtime showcases a wealth of wildflowers as they surge across the snow-melted mountains. In contrast, the fall brings colorful foliage with a few raindrops. The low season offers backpackers more affordable prices on accommodation and flights too! 

The wintertime offers action-packed events and activities for both snow and sports lovers. If you're interested in skiing or snowboarding, now's the time to shine! Prices can soar around Christmas, so it's not ideal for budget travelers. 

The west's summertime boasts hot and dry weather, making it a stellar time for outdoor activities. Tourism is usually at its height this season, so it may not be ideal for those bound to a strict budget. 

Step 2. Create your ideal travel budget 

If you're planning a trip out west, you're probably left thinking, how much will this cost? Now's the time to construct your very own travel budget. It sounds simple and not so appealing, but it's a crucial step to get more bang for your buck. 

When creating your ideal budget, remember to factor in accommodation, transport, flights, rental car hire, food, etc. Every last detail counts! 

The standard daily budget for travelers out west can differ greatly, depending on your travel style. If you're looking to keep it low cost, stay just outside the popular tourist areas and find budget accommodation in advance. If you're planning to hire a car, remember the money for fuel and tollways!  

Traveling has become more affordable in recent years. You can make the most out of your adventures by using these comprehensive  budget travel tips .  

Step 3. Figure out the must-see destinations 

All right! The United States West is home to an inundating inventory of dazzling destinations. Whether you want to lay low in a coastal town or sweat it out in a national park, a lot goes on on this side of the country. If you're heading out on a road trip out west, here are some top destinations you could add to your itinerary: 

• Yosemite National Park 
• Museum of American West in Denver 
• San Francisco city 
• Rocky Mountain National Park 
• Jackson Hole 
• Getty Center in Los Angeles 
• Yellowstone National Park
• Space Needle in Seattle 
• Beaches in California 
• Zion National Park
• Grand Canyon 

Step 4. Establish your route  

How do you plan on getting around? Are you thinking about a 2-week road trip out west, or would you prefer a 5-day visit? Are you driving a car, campervan, or participating in a group trip? 

Whatever your preference is, there really is no right or wrong way to do it. Plan your route out west, and remember to calculate time, cost, and distance. 

Step 5. Figure out your accommodation 

Out west, there is a huge range of accommodation. Depending on your travel tastes, what you choose can vary greatly. When planning a trip out west, you'll encounter everything from budget hostels to luxury resorts. You can also choose between  Airbnb ,  Couchsurfing,  hostels , sharehouses, and hotels. 

Save yourself time by comparing different hotel options on websites like  Hotels.com . You can even sign up to score hotel deals alerts to save extra money.  

 Step 6. Research some activities and attractions 

Now's the time to ask yourself, what are some of the best things to do out west? Maybe you've seen a photo of a canyon you'd like to conquer, a beach you'd like to bathe on, or a desert spa that's calling your name… 

Whatever you're feeling, get it down on paper! Here are some activities to add to your itinerary out west: 

• Kayak through the Emerald Cove
• Hit the dunes of Las Vegas on an ATV tour
• See Palm Springs from above on the aerial tramway  
• Hike through Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park on a day tour  
• Tour the Grand Canyon 
• Hit the heights of Temecula on a hot-air balloon ride   
• Go on a Napa and Sonoma Wine Country full-day tour  

Step 7. Get down to the nitty gritty  

Now that you know how to plan a trip out west, it's time to get down to business. Get your travel visa and documents organized, and make sure you've got travel insurance too. Being prepared in case things go wrong can bring you great peace of mind. If you need help figuring out what's right for you, take a peek at this insider's guide on the  best travel insurance for 2023 .

Step 8. Start packing  

Packing doesn't have to involve running around your room, frantically fumbling through drawers, throwing clothes everywhere, and screaming, "I can't find anything"… In fact, packing can be quite the opposite. All you need to do is stay organized and pack ahead of time. 

Scan over all the items in this  complete vacation packing list  to ensure you've all the necessities. Keep your clothing organized with  packing cubes  and utilize all the room you have. Heck, even stuff socks and underwear into your shoes! 

When planning a trip out west, there are going to be some long hours spent on the road. To help make your life easier and not break the bank, don't forget these travel essentials: 

• Universal Travel Adapter
• Power Bank  
• Water Bottle  
• Travel Wallet  
• Noise-Cancelling Headphones  
• Hiking Shoes  

Why visit the west? 

This part of the United States is home to some of the most unique landscapes on earth. With rolling hilltops, sandy deserts, vibrant cities, and a whole lot more, there is something to satisfy every type of traveler. 

Rural escapes, stunning scenery, crashing coastlines, and more! 

Now that you know how to plan a trip out west, it's time to take off your serious shoes and slip into something a little more comfortable. Pilot can help you plan the most epic trip, so what are you waiting for? Start the countdown now! 

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

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Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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15 Best West Coast Romantic Getaways and Vacation Spots for Couples

Posted on September 12, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on December 27, 2022

Planning your next West Coast romantic getaway ? Discover some of the best destinations on the West Coast for couples looking to spend some quality time together.

Whether you’re more into outdoor adventures, exploring cities, or small towns full of charm , you’ll find the perfect destination for you and your partner. With cozy bed and breakfasts, scenic views, fun activities, and romantic restaurants, these places are ideal for a romantic weekend getaway, a vacation, or a day trip if you live nearby.

Keep on reading to discover some of the most romantic getaways on the West Coast.

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Romantic Getaways in Washington

Olympic national park.

By Jessica from Uprooted Traveler

Washington state’s Olympic National Park , with its dramatic beaches and moody forests, is perfect for a romantic getaway, especially for outdoorsy couples. It was the setting of the romance series, Twilight , after all! Tucked away in the Olympic Peninsula, this gorgeous national park is 175 miles northwest of Seattle.

If you visit during the summertime , consider hiking any of the incredible trails , where you can explore Olympic’s dynamic landscape, from craggy sea stacks towering out of the Pacific to snow-capped mountains.

For a particularly romantic experience, consider hiking and camping at Shi Shi Beach , a secluded beach with spectacular sunsets, beachside campfires, and gentle waves lulling you to sleep at night.  

For a slightly lower impact option, head to the Hurricane Hill , where you ca n walk across a mountain ridgeline, hand in hand, and gaze at the peaks of the Olympic Mountains around you. In the summertime, the slopes of the mountains are covered with colorful wildflowers and you might even spot a mountain goat or two.

If you’re visiting in the wintertime , book a stay in a cozy lodge or cabin , like the Kalaloch Lodge , overlooking the Pacific Ocean and with romantic details, like mulled wine and fire pits.

The coastal area provides moderate temperatures year-round , so you can still explore beaches and rainforests, like the Hoh Rainforest, a UNESCO Biosphere, regardless of the time of year. Just make sure to pack a raincoat- it is the Pacific Northwest, after all!

Related – Best National Parks on the West Coast

Orcas Island

Part of the San Juan Islands, Orcas Island makes for a perfect weekend getaway on the West Coast with your better half. Take time to enjoy the scenery, go on a couple of hikes, and discover the island’s arts and culture scene.

You can spend a day driving the Orcas Island Scenic Byway, stopping along the way to visit small towns, enjoy the beach, and just admire the island’s stunning landscape.

The highlight of a trip to Orcas Island is, of course, going on a wildlife cruise . Year-round the chances of spotting orcas, minke whales, harbor seals, Dall’s and harbor porpoises, and other bird species are high, but the best time is between March and October.

There are plenty of opportunities for hiking any time of the year , while you can enjoy water activities during the warmer months.

Don’t miss exploring the island’s historic buildings . Stop at Orcas Island Historical Museum where you can visit six homestead cabins  and see artifacts of Orcas’ Native American and settler history.

Many other buildings have been turned into hotels and restaurants. Don’t miss the Outlook Inn , where you can grab a bite at their New Leaf Café , the Orcas Hotel , Rosario Resort , and Doe Bay Resort & Retreat , one of the first post offices (and taverns) on Orcas Island.

To get there, take a ferry from Anacortes, between Seattle and Vancouver.

Otter’s Pond Bed and Breakfast is one of the best places to stay on the island for couples . Featuring garden view rooms, the hotel offers a tasty breakfast and a hot tub making it an ideal romantic getaway.

If you want more privacy, you can also check out the vacation rentals around the island, plenty feature stunning views and romantic amenities like hot tubs and fireplaces.

The perfect blend of outdoor and cultural activities makes Spokane one of the best West Coast romantic getaways . Visit the city’s museums and historic buildings, sample the local gastronomy, go on a scenic hike, you’ll find plenty of romantic things to do in Spokane.

In town, visit the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture and its exhibits on art, culture, and Native American heritage. Then, tour the 19th-century Tudor-style Campbell House , before strolling through the Vast Riverfront Park and its sculpture walk. There, don’t miss riding the cable car to the top to get impressive views over Spokane Falls.

You can also go for a stroll (and picnic if the weather is nice) at John A. Finch Arboretum home to thousands of different types of plants. Manito Park is another popular garden to visit while in Spokane.

Outside of town, you can shop for fresh produce or pick your own fruits at the farming community of Green Bluff .

For some outdoor adventures, head to Mount Spokane State Park , where you can hike and mountain bike during the warmer months and ski or snowboard in the winter. You can also go whitewater rafting at one of the many rapids nearby.

If you like wine, you should go wine tasting at the award-winning and family-run Latah Creek Winery.

When it comes to places to stay, the Historic Davenport is undoubtedly one of the best options in Spokane. For something more intimate, book a vacation rental either in town or outside if you’d rather be surrounded by nature.

Romantic vacation spots in Oregon

By Candice from CS Ginger

Portland, Oregon is a fantastic place for a romantic getaway. The best time to visit is around June until the end of August . This is because you will have the best weather during this time, but don’t let that deter you from going outside of those months. The city is worth visiting even if the time of year is outside of those months.

The city is full of life with many fun things to do , it is also a great foodie destination. You can spend your time strolling through the multiple romantic flower gardens, learning about the city’s history at the Pitk Mansion , or taking a bike tour around town.

There are also lots of fun day trips to take from Portland . The Pacific Northwest is such a beautiful part of the country, and many great places are within a few hours of downtown Portland. The Oregon Coast is just over an hour away. Cannon Beach is a very charming and romantic coastal town with a quaint downtown area and great hiking trails in Ecola State Park.

Another fun area to explore is the Columbia River Gorge. It is home to the famous Multnomah Falls as well as many other waterfalls. You can take a romantic day exploring the beautiful waterfalls, packing a picnic to enjoy at one of them.

You will also love many of the unique and modern hotel accommodations, from small boutiques to gorgeous luxury hotels . Portland is the romantic destination we should all be visiting with our significant other. One of the best places to stay in Portland is Jupiter NEXT . It is a beautiful boutique hotel within walking distance of many of the fun areas to explore in downtown Portland.

You’ll also find plenty of quirky condos and apartments available for rent near the downtown area.

From stunning landscapes to a rich cultural life, Ashland in Southern Oregon is an ideal getaway on the West Coast for couples looking for a blend of outdoor activities, great festivals, and plenty of entertainment options.

Ashland is known to host the 8-month-long Oregon Shakespeare Festival where you can watch a performance almost every day from February to October. Visit the Schneider Museum of Art with rotating exhibits featuring art from the 20th and 21ft centuries.

If you want to spend some time outside, go on one of the many scenic trails you’ll find at Lithia Park . There you’ll find themed gardens, ponds, historical landmarks, picnic spots, and an ice skating rink. You can also head to Emigrant Lake County Park where you can camp, rock climb, swim, kayak, and hike.

More adventurous couples can go on a whitewater rafting trip down the Rogue River. During winter, you can also enjoy a plethora of winter activities on Mt. Ashland.

For a place to stay, check out the top-rated Arden Forest Inn , ideal for couples looking for a romantic getaway option. For something more intimate, book a private cottage in or outside of town.

Romantic getaways in Northern California

San francisco.

By Mary from Be Right Back by Mary

From the Golden Gate Bridge to the Painted Ladies, San Francisco is a gorgeous city located in the north of California and makes a perfect romantic vacation spot. Visited by millions of tourists every year, the city is more than just touristy spots. San Francisco offers lots of romantic activities for couples thanks to the stunning scenery it offers. 

One romantic activity to do in San Francisco at night is to hop on a sunset cruise in the Bay. With a glass of wine, you can enjoy a calm cruise with gorgeous views of the San Francisco skyline and a whole new perspective on the Golden Gate Bridge. If you’re lucky, you might even come across dolphins. This is a must to add to your San Francisco itinerary !

An alternative to that for active couples is to go kayaking in the Bay . Bottlenose dolphins sometimes even come up to the kayaks! 

A  fun day activity for couples in San Francisco is to head to the other side of the Golden Gate Bridge to the small municipality of Sausalit o. Sausalito is a boat house neighborhood with lots of different pontoons you can walk on. The houses are eclectic and well decorated with lots of flowers. This is a fun and unique part of San Francisco to discover with a partner. 

After exploring San Francisco, you can spend a night at the Fairmont Hotel which offers stunning views of the city and also offers a large pool with a bar. You can also book a vacation rental for more privacy and access to a kitchen.

By Tori from Tori Pines Travels

A getaway to Napa, California is one of the most romantic trips that you and your significant other could dream of. Located near San Francisco in Northern California, a Napa day trip is great if you don’t have a lot of time, but you could easily spend a week there!

Napa Valley is known for its delicious wine, and you’ll likely want to try some while you’re in town. The most romantic winery is Castello di Amorosa , which has a castle located on the vineyard. After your tasting in the castle, wander its back hallways and take in stunning views of the valley.

Check out downtown Napa for a variety of gourmet food at restaurants like Bistro Don Giovanni or Compline , both extremely romantic and serving delicious bites. If you’re looking to wow your special someone, try one of the four Michelin Star restaurants in the area instead.

The best thing you and your partner can do in Napa is to take a ride on the Napa Valley Wine Train . During a daytime ride, you can view the valley and vineyards , or enjoy a romantic evening experience. Whichever you choose, you’ll be served delicious food, drink local wine, and enjoy time together.

To top off the trip, you must book a couples massage at one of the luxurious spas in town. There are so many to choose from, but a great option is Calistoga Spa Hot Springs for a massage together, a volcanic ash mud bath treatment, and then relaxing in the hot springs pools. You might want to stay the night here as well!

You’ll find plenty of vacation rentals with stunning views of the mountains and vineyard as well.

Getting to Napa is easy, fly into San Francisco International Airport and rent a car, and drive north for 1.5 hours. Or, book a driver if you don’t need a car during your stay.

Mammoth Lakes

By Jessica from UpRooted Traveler

Mammoth Lakes, California, a charming ski town tucked away in the eastern Sierra Nevadas, is the perfect place to cozy up with a loved one. 

Given the surrounding epic mountains, it’s no surprise that there are world-class ski resorts , like Mammoth Mountain , here, so if you’re visiting in the wintertime, hit the slopes and take in the spectacular alpine views around you. Afterward, get an apres-ski drink or soak in an outdoor hot tub to warm up from the chilly temperatures. 

If you’re visiting, instead, in the summertime, there are plenty of ways to explore the spectacular landscape, from hiking, kayaking, or backpacking. If you’re looking for a more lowkey activity, take a picnic basket to the shores of the Mammoth Lakes basin , and afterward, rent a canoe to get out on the water.

Regardless of what season you visit, be sure to enjoy some of the incredible hot springs sprinkled throughout town , like Wild Willy’s Hot Spring . Here, you’ll find a natural pool, filled with naturally steamy water, with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevadas around you.

One of the best things about Mammoth Lakes is its remoteness- it feels like there’s nothing around beyond you and the gorgeous mountains. That being said, you’ll need to either fly into Los Angeles (a 5-hour drive away) or Las Vegas (5 and a half hours away).

Once you arrive in Mammoth Lakes, consider making the Westin Monache Resort, with an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, your home base for your stay. You’ll also plenty of gorgeous condos with incredible amenities for couples.

By Denise from Chef Denise

Three hours north of San Francisco, Mendocino offers the picture-perfect romantic getaway for couples on the West Coast: a charming town, gorgeous scenery, amazing restaurants, and stunning sunsets.

The small town itself in shades of pastel looks like it came out of a storybook. Historic Victorian buildings house restaurants and boutiques that look out at the Mendocino Headlands State Park.

The park trails lead you along the dramatic cliffs to spectacular views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Known for its rugged coastline, there are countless vista points with incredible views . For those that prefer an actual beach, just outside of town there’s Van Damme State Beach . You’ll also find Van Damme State Park with trails through the Pygmy Forest and Big River where you can kayak or canoe. 

A few miles to the north lies one of the most romantic places for couples to stroll in the spring, the Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens. Advance tickets are required to walk through the 47 acres of blooms along coastal bluffs.

There are lots of excellent  restaurants in Mendocino . But if you’re looking for a romantic setting, The Ravens at the Stanford Inn by the Sea is the spot for breakfast or dinner. Request a window that overlooks the garden and ocean. Even better, if you stay at the inn, your daily breakfast is included.

You’ll also find many gorgeous and romantic cottages with sweeping ocean views.

Romantic getaways in Central California

Paso robles.

By Anu from Destination Checkoff

Paso Robles is an awesome romantic getaway destination on the central coast of California known for its world-class wineries and vineyards . It is also known for its rejuvenating mineral hot springs, charming historic downtown , and an amazing light show called Sensorio.

Paso Robles is around a 2 to 3-hour drive from both northern and southern California, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway for locals in California. For people visiting from outside of California, flying to either San Jose international airport, Santa Barbara airport, or Los Angeles airport will be the best option. From there, Paso Robles is around a 2-hour drive.

Fall and Spring are great seasons to visit Paso Robles . In fall there are many harvest festivals and in spring the rolling hills of Paso Robles come alive with a brilliant color of green.

Sensorio Field of Lights in Paso Robles is a famous light and art display by internationally acclaimed artist Bruce Munro and is a must-visit! It is a perfect date night experience to spend an evening at Sensorio walking among the thousands of colorful lights set against the backdrop of the Paso Robles rolling hills landscape.

Paso Robles has a laid-back downtown and is very charming with numerous boutiques, art galleries, and shops around the main city park square. The downtown has wine tasting rooms for most of the famous vineyards in the region. The city park is a great place to have a romantic picnic or visit the historic Carnegie library museum .

Sculpterra winery and sculpture garden has interesting art sculptures to admire, it also has live music and food trucks on most weekends.

If you choose to stay in Paso Robles, a vacation rental downtown is a good option, so you can walk to many of the wine tasting rooms, restaurants, and shops. There are also some great hotels in downtown Paso Robles like the historic Paso Robles Inn . At Paso Robles Inn you can request a room with a mineral hot tub on a private balcony!

Paso Robles is a beautiful town for a romantic getaway on the West Coast.

By Nikki from Inspired Routes

If you’re looking for the best romantic getaways on the West Coast , look no further than Big Sur, California. Nestled just south of Monterey, Big Sur is one of the most beautiful, natural coastlines in all of the US.

Big Sur can be explored as a day trip from the adorable town of Carmel , California. Or, couples can begin their adventure in Carmel and stay a night – or two throughout the coast to really see more of it. The Big Sur River Inn and Alila Ventana Big Sur are both great, romantic spots to enjoy along the coast.

There are so many things to do in Big Sur you could spend a long weekend or a full week exploring the area . Top attractions include the Bixby Creek Bridge, Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Sand Dollar Beach. There are countless scenic overlooks as you make your way down the coast, too.

The best time to visit Big Sur for a romantic vacation is spring and fall . The fog is most dense in the summer months which inhibits the view, and the rainy season is over the winter months. Although any time of year it’s possible to see sunshine on the California Coast. 

Couples will want to fly into the airport in Monterey California and rent a car for the journey. Driving the Pacific Coast Highway through Big Sur is a bucket list vacation, and couples will love the experience.

Romantic destinations in Southern California

Related – Best Romantic Destinations in Southern California for Couples on a Budget

By Meg from Fox in the Forest

One of the best romantic getaways on the west coast is Lake Tahoe. It is a stunning alpine lake in the Sierra Nevadas that straddles the border between California and Nevada.

As a result, it is brimming over with incredibly romantic things to do that you and your partner will love.

So, fly into Reno-Tahoe International Airport and drive around 45-minutes to the North Lake Tahoe area. Just use I-580 S and US-395 S/NV-431 W to take you to Incline Village and North Lake Tahoe.

Once there, settle into a suite at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort Spa and Casino . Not only does this place have its own private beach but rooms have a charming, alpine theme.

You also can’t leave without going for a swim in the heated outdoor pool before cozying up in the hot tub together and booking couples massages at the award-winning Stillwater Spa & Salon.

Then, start your romantic Lake Tahoe itinerary with a ride on the Heavenly Gondola . After all, this gondola ride will whisk you away to some of the best skiing in the region . Alternatively, you could always just relax at the observation deck area and sip on hot cocoa at Cafe Blue while admiring the vast landscape.

Next, go on an hour’s drive to the Sierra Hot Springs with its romantic domed hot spring, meditation pool, historic bathhouse, and more.

Enjoy the 102-degree water before heading to Emerald Bay State Park and tackling incredible hikes like the Eagle Falls/Eagle Lake hike and the Emerald Bay – Vikingsholm Hike.

Finally, spend a romantic evening savoring incredible New American cuisine at the sophisticated Lake House Restaurant and enjoy some of the best food in the region.

By Nikki from She Saves She Travels

One of the most romantic getaways on the West Coast is San Diego, California. With beautiful beaches , a fantastic food scene , and so many things to do, couples will love visiting San Diego.

Enjoy walking around the streets of La Jolla while shopping, watching street performers, and dining. Or, for more adventure, take a kayak tour of the La Jolla Cove. Be sure to grab gelato at Bobboi’s Natural Gelato while you soak in the views of the coast.

Next, head to Old Town San Diego where you’ll find tons of rich history and fabulous Mexican food . Couples can walk the streets of Old Town, discovering the monument marking the birthplace of California, checking out museums, an artisan market, live music, and so much more. There are so many things to do in Old Town San Diego , but perhaps the best yet is all the Mexican food!

While spending a romantic weekend in San Diego, be sure to visit Coronado Beach. The bougie island near downtown San Diego offers super soft, white sand, perfect for an afternoon on the beach. Bring a picnic or grab a pizza and enjoy the sunset with the sparkling sand. There’s truly nothing more romantic for couples on vacation!

And if it’s within your budget, be sure to stay at the Hotel Del Coronado . Rich in history and located right on the beach, it’s an incredible stay. You will also find plenty of vacation rentals at all price points.

San Diego is busiest in the summer months, but it’s also the warmest, especially if you want to swim in the water. Fall and spring in San Diego are perfect with mild temperatures and not as many tourists. Winter is a perfect escape from the cold, and the second busiest time in the city for visitors. 

By Reshma from The Solo Globetrotter

Solvang is a cute town in Southern California known for its rich Danish history, architecture, and culture , and is one of the best romantic getaways on the west coast. 

From exploring the city’s major attractions to attending festivals and tasting local delicacies, you will spend a relaxing romantic vacation in Solvang, known for its laid-back vibes.

The mild climate and many sunny days make magnificent Santa Ynez Valley one of the best places for wine tasting . Take tours of stunning wineries surrounded by fantastic landscapes, where you can enjoy lunch or dinner with wine in the restaurants overlooking beautiful views of the valley.

Solvang hosts festivals most of the year, so plan to attend a few of them with your special one. In spring, the famous cultural festival Danish Days is a beautiful fest, and if you are here during the fall months, attend the wine festival Grape stomp.

Although spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Solvang, December is an excellent month if you are looking for a romantic California getaway. The town transforms into a winter wonderland during Christmas, with decorations everywhere, resembling a European Christmas town full of holiday spirits. 

Mirabelle Inn & Restaurant  in downtown Solvang is a fantastic Danish-style cottage featuring a spa, pool, and other comfortable amenities, plus spacious rooms and excellent reviews. You’ll also find plenty of romantic vacation rentals around town.

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These Are the Best Weekend Trips In the West, According to NatGeo’s New Book

National Geographic’s new book details hundreds of the best weekend trips. Of course, many of the trips are right here in the West.

What’s your idea of a “perfect weekend”? Does the answer to this question sound appealing but also rather elusive?

Just thinking about planning a perfect weekend might be enough for many people to put the whole thing aside. But thanks to National Geographic , it’s now much more attainable. The iconic publication’s new book, 1000 Perfect Weekends: Great Getaways Around the Globe has plenty of ideas for great weekend trips for all types of travelers, from shredding down a mountain to wandering the streets of an artistic and historic city, or relaxing on a beach.

“Most of us don’t get a lot of time to take a vacation. We have work, we have family obligations, our time is tied up in other things. And so we wanted to create a book that allowed people to really feel like they can escape if all they have is 36, 72 hours in a place,” says Allyson Johnson, a senior editor with National Geographic Books and a contributor to 1000 Perfect Weekends .

Johnson and six other National Geographic travel writers started working in late 2018 to compile trips and destinations where people could arrive and fully or almost fully experience it in one weekend. This focus means that while the book includes trips to all parts of the globe, most will take you somewhere in the United States or one of its close neighbors. The book itself is divided into 18 chapters, each one focusing on a specific type of travel, like “Adrenaline Rushers,” “Road Trips,” and “Historical Explorations,” or a type of destination like “Nature Parks,” “Beach Escapes,” and “City Tours.”

Courtesy of CSNafzger and Shutterstock

Say, for example, you’re interested in food tourism. The book features an entire food and drink chapter detailing famous markets, world-renowned restaurants, and impressive vineyards. One of those is the Applegate Valley Wine Trail in Oregon. This viticulture journey begins in Jacksonville and takes you along the path of the Applegate River to 19 wineries, all while under the impressive backdrop of the Siskiyou Mountains. Jacksonville is the perfect base camp for this trail. This city features lots of independent retailers, restaurants and charming bed-and-breakfasts, many of which are housed in historic buildings. Some even date back to the 1850s during Jacksonville’s origins as a gold rush town. This trip can be part mountain retreat, part history tour, and part wine tasting, making for one impressive weekend.

Dividing the book into these specific chapters allowed each contributor to showcase all the impressive places they’d traveled to and written about during their time as National Geographic writers.

“[The travel writers] are really the experts,” Johnson says. “They have been in the field for decades, and collectively they’ve been to all of the places in this book, so I really wanted people who had experienced these places and can speak to them from firsthand experience to work on this….I wanted the travel writers to really narrow in [on] their expertise and then tell me the best places they have been in each of those categories that they excel at.”

This process left the team with 1,500 destinations that needed to be whittled down. As far as what landed each destination on the final list, it was part x-factor, part ease. “We really wanted places that had those unique characteristics but also easy access,” Johnson says.

For the team, regardless of what each site had to offer, it was critical that people would still be able to get the most out of it in a weekend. In other words, they wanted to avoid places that, even if they had something really special, would have travelers spending most of their time on some form of transportation.

Courtesy of Joel Hensler and Shutterstock

After taking that into consideration, the team finally had a list of 1,000 destinations, of which 336 are right here in the West. Spots range from national parks and museums to old battlefields to mountainside retreats, like Lake Arrowhead in California.

Nestled below the San Bernardino Mountains, this beautiful resort town allows travelers to have a similar experience to a stay in the Alps without having to cross the Atlantic. Sitting at 5,174 feet, the 90-minute commute from the city has made Lake Arrowhead a favorite retreat of Los Angeles natives since the 1920s. Most activity is focused in and around Lake Arrowhead Village. This Bavarian-style refuge has shops, lodging, and restaurants; and on holidays, Fridays, and Saturdays from mid-May to Labor Day, the village hosts a free Center Stage Summer Concert Series. A short distance from the village, you’ll find Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa. A stay grants you access to the resort’s private beach, which during the summer offers kayaking, fishing. paddle-boarding, and boat tours on the lake. Throughout the year, you can hit local trails to hike or bike, and understand why this area is often called the Alps of Southern California.

Most of 1000 Perfect Weekends highlights locations like this, with detailed descriptions of the attractions and appeal of each location, paired with some of NatGeo ‘s famously impressive photography. However, there are two additional types of entries in the book.

Courtesy of Scott Stulberg and Getty Images

The first is top 10 lists. From the best beaches to the best natural wonders, these lists offer quick bits of information and serve as great bookmark-able, single-page lists for specific types of destinations.

For example, one list details the top 10 places to go stargazing, three of which are in the West. Natural Bridges National Monument was not only Utah’s first national monument but also the first International Dark Sky Park. It prides itself on having no light pollution and clear views of the Milky Way. Visitors to Natural Bridges can see thousands of stars at night, while most urban areas only offer views of about 500 stars.

Sedona, Arizona, also received a Dark Sky Community label from the International Dark Sky Association for its near lack of light pollution. Night hikes offer impressive views of the Milky Way over Cathedral Rock and a telescope in the right spot will help you spot the Whirlpool galaxy. If you’re new to stargazing, take an “Evening Sky Tour,” through the stars using state-of-the-art telescopes led by professional astronomers.

And while Death Valley National Park in California is only two hours from Las Vegas, this park still offers impressive views of the desert sky during its twice-a-month astronomy events and the annual Dark Sky Festival .

Courtesy of Kay Fleischmann and Getty Images

The book’s second type entries are essays. As part of creating the book, the team went through the past few years of essays written for National Geographic Traveler , as well as other essays written by travel writers, to find ones focused on specific locations or trips to include in the book.

“On top of the recommendations that we put up [for] places to go, we have those firsthand accounts that have real personal stories tied to these destinations….For instance, there’s an essay in the book about a woman who went to Costa Rica with her family for a long weekend and then decided she wanted to change her entire life after experiencing that weekend there and almost uproot her family and live in Costa Rica,” Johnson says.

These essays offer interesting perspectives and personal contemplations on destinations across the world, and they work well as a companion to the vividly transportive photos and descriptions. While these essays showcase how destinations can impact individuals, the book also highlights destinations hoping to have a broader societal impact. The “Enabled Adventures” chapter features locations that cater to or have accommodations for people with disabilities. This varies from beaches with specially modified wheelchairs that go across the sand, to autism-friendly hotels and museums that have been modified to be more accessible to blind individuals.

“I was pleasantly surprised by how many destinations we found and the variety of ability-friendly destinations. There are destinations for hearing impaired and visually impaired [individuals], and wheelchair-accessible destinations,” Johnson says. “It’s something unique in the travel media landscape to make sure that people of all abilities are thought of in getting to different destinations.”

One of the locations included in this section is White Sands National Park. This otherworldly 275-square-mile expanse of pure white sand in the Chihuahuan Desert of southern New Mexico literally shimmers thanks to the world’s largest field of gypsum, a mineral mixed in with the sand. For folks with limited mobility, there’s the 8-mile one-way Dunes Drive, and the quarter-mile Interdune Boardwalk where everyone, including people who use wheelchairs, can explore the park and get to the top of dunes to see the expansive white. The park also offers large print, Braille, and audio versions of park guides to ensure access for all to park info.

Mint Images

With all the destinations, photos, essays, and lists, the team’s big project certainly resulted in a big book, though maybe the title clued you into that. The manuscript’s 700-plus pages means that this will very much be a coffee table book, but it’s the best kind: one with actual utility. The trips featured in the book add up to about 19 years worth of travel, making it one hell of a bucket list. But that’s not really what the book is. It’s aspirationally practical. Whenever you open it, its vividly realistic descriptions and classic NatGeo photos can transport you, your family, or your mind, just for a little while.

“This is a unique book that really captures how people travel. … They know, ‘I have X amount of time, I want to go somewhere great,’ and they can literally flip this book open any page and find that,” Johnson says. “Even if you can’t make it to one of these destinations, you can flip through and travel from your armchair.”

While the team created the book to be a long-lasting traveler’s go-to with tried and true destinations, Johnson also feels that now is the perfect time for a book like this.

“People are starting to tip their dip their toes back into the travel space, and I think a lot of us are feeling a little gun shy of how to do that,” Johnson said. “We’re not necessarily ready to take a longer excursion yet, so a weekend feels really like the right way to start traveling again.”

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Western USA Tours & Trips

From the illuminated sunset strip of Las Vegas and the cactus-filled plains of Joshua Tree to the bright red bridge that dominates San Francisco and California's Disneyland where dreams come true. The West Coast of the USA is a paradise offering a range of adventures for the whole family no matter what time of year . Embark on a cruise to Alaska or opt for some time out in Yosemite , the possibilities are endless on a vacation America's West Coast.

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250+ western usa tour packages with 12,830 reviews.

Alaska Kenai & Denali Adventure

Good itinerary overall

• Mountain Hikes
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7 Day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Camping Tour

This was our family’s first guided trip, and we chose the camping option (ages 52, 50, 13, 12). It exceeded our expectations! Despite a complex itinerary we never once had to think about how to get there, how much time to spend at each place, where to park, what to see, where to stay, where or what to eat - that was all planned for us. There was no marital or family tension and could just truly sit back and enjoy the ride! I truly believe we did more and saw more than we ever would have on our own. And special experiences like moonrises and sunrises were a big bonus. Our guide John was an enthusiastic and capable outdoorsman. He made sure the trip met the needs of the various guests - campers and hotellers alike, with a wide range of ages and physical abilities. There were thoughtful touches like road-trip playlists, moonrise and sunrise viewings, pit stops at roadside stops to support Native American craftsmen, and more. This is a beautiful part of the US - each park more beautiful than the last, but each one unique and wonderful. Highly recommend!

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

7 day Southwest National Parks Grand Canyon Tour

The tour was fantastic. The group became friends quickly. Our guide, Hogan, was great! He was knowledgeable and had a great rapport with us. We had a great time!

Best of Utah & Arizona National Parks

Great parks. Convenient not to need to play any logistics!

• Christmas & New Year

California Express - 3 Days

We did not see route 1 and the city of Carmel as it was written in the itinarary. The guide did not give much information about the places we visited. But overall it was a good tour.

• In-depth Cultural

Wild West – 5 days

Jacob and Alex were awesome - really took good care. Good trip enjoyed it

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Yellowstone / Grand Teton 4 Day / 3 Night Wildlife Adventure

Awesome tour. Our tour guide was excellent. Showed us a plethora of wildlife we never would have found on our own. Nice smooth trip.

Mighty 5 From Las Vegas

This trip was amazing. This was a bucket list trip for my daughter and I. From the beginning when we met our tour guide, Dave showater to the end. Dave was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and did fantastic driving and picked fantastic restaurants along the way. I would highly recommend this trip. The parks were excellent.

Mighty 5 From Salt Lake City

Wynn was a wonderful guide. Hotels were very nice. No complaints about anything. This is an amazing adventure and the entire trip was flawless.

Yellowstone and Grand Tetons Adventure

Tim was a great tour guide. He was knowledgeable, helpful, and always upbeat. Time with the wildlife expert was phenomenal. the tour itself was excellent. The good ranking has to do with communications from Intrepid Travel, which were poor and lead to changed air flights and other headaches.

Western USA National Parks Loop

One of the best group trips I have ever been on. Rene was absolutely fantastic! Zion national park, Bryce Canyon and the Grand Canyon are absolutely amazing places to visit. Photos can not do justice to the sheer magnificent beauty. Our group was amazing, friendly, fun, always on time and ages 30s-60s. The accommodations were sufficient and the hikes were manageable even for someone like myself who is not the most physically fit. I would suggest arriving a day or 2 early in Vegas or staying the night you return to get the most out of the experience. The Hoover dam is not included but there are short day trips from Vegas that cover this area which is definitely worthwhile. The days were long but there was sufficient rest at night to cope with some of the early morning wake up times. Which was WELL worth it!! Seeing the Grand Canyon at sunset was a sight I will never forget. If I can give 10 stars I would. This was my first intrepid trip and I have to say it won’t be the last. Even though we were unable to kayak lake Powell because time of year, we saw antelope canyon which was quite spectacular. Monument valley was also an experience to remember. If you have the opportunity to go, do it! You won’t regret one minute!

Majestic Alaska (10 Days)

In general things went very well. However, At the Denali location there was a shortage of staff which prevented full service at the Park, Ie. not all dinning venues were normal and our room service such as daily service was missing. We were told, staff shortage due to Canadian employees may have left due to concern of border being closed into Canada. Hotel dysfunction on a limited basis due to that concern. On our last day at the Anchorage Hilton room service was missing also. Not sure why. Most other activities were well supplied/performed. We were pleased.with our Tour Director Tyler, Bus Driver Les and Health coordinator Carol., Some other venues were a bit restricted due to COVID-19 concerns which appear to be out of control of Tourradar. We loved Valdez,, Fairbanks, Anchorage and Kanai Fjords National Park, as well as the Athabascan Village and flat boat ride and other amenities such as the Husky Dog Farm. Overall pleased, except as noted above. The weather cooperated 100%.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Overland Truck

Alaska Adventure - 20 Days

I highly recommend Infinite Adventures in general and this trip particularly. If you want to see the best of Alaska you have to join the team and their bus, In 20 days I have seen more from Alaska than I would ever have expected. Dave and Tory are amazing and I would travel with them any time. 5 stars all the way!!!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

USA - The Western Deserts

We have chosen the tour specifically because it was in German and also in other languages shown. Also on our voucher was again confirmed the tour with professional, German-speaking tour guide. Unfortunately, the tour guides did not speak German. We were able to help ourselves a bit with the translation app but we also missed a lot of information. We are very disappointed about this and expect compensation. The tour guides have tried and were very nice also the tour was very nice.

Alaska Denali Expedition - 12 Days

Awesome trip with IA!!! Natalie and Dave were great hosts and thought of everything. Just the right amount of variety and things to do. I am looking forward to another Infinite Adventure with them!

What people love about Western USA Tours

Everything was great organized, our CEO Megan was so kind and well prepared.

We thoroughly enjoyed the 7-day tour of the US southwest . We love the destinations included in the tour, every place we visited is on our bucket list. I wanted to pinch myself every day that I visited those iconic and beautiful places as shown in my photos below. We enjoyed all the extra, optional experiences that were suggested by the tour guide. They added more fun to the tour. The Hummer tour in Moab, Utah was one of the optional experiences and it was a blast! Not only it’s fun, you get to see the amazing scenery during the sunset. One previous review mentioned he or she was forced to participate in the Navajo taco dinner in Monument Valley. That comment is not true. You have a choice not to do that and the guide can make a different arrangement for you. The optional Navajo taco dinner is one of the highlights of the tour that we will remember for a long time. It would be a shame not to have this cultural experience when you get to meet Navajo people when you are in the Navajo Nation! Our tour guide, John did a fantastic job. He was full of enthusiasm and energy. He kept the tour well organized and always provided information we needed. We highly recommend the tour.

What a lifetime experience everyone needs Jun 2023 • Solo Within 7 days, we drove in 3 states, visited 5 national parks / 2 state parks, hiked 60 miles, made friends from 7 different states/nations, and eventually traveled through the iconic Route 66 back to Las Vegas. What a lifetime experience everyone needs Day 1 - Zion National Park Day 2 - Bryce Canyon National Park Day 3 - Canyonlands National Park Day 4 - Arches National Park Day 5 - Monument Valley Navajo Nation Day 6 - Grand Canyon National Park / Antelope State Day 7- Grand Canyon back to Las Vegas via Historic Route 66 AMAZING!

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West Coast Girls’ Trip Ideas: 15 Weekend Trips in the Western US For the Mom Who Needs a Getaway!

In previous posts, we established the importance of a mom break and explored various destination choices on the East Coast USA and Europe . Now we will dive into the great destination options for a West coast girls’ trip for the mom looking for a weekend getaway and chance to pamper and recharge herself for the full time job of parenting. But don’t worry, even ladies without children need a break and for those of you who have stumbled upon this post, don’t feel guilty for indulging in a weekend getaway for yourself!

The West Coast of the continental US includes the states of Washington, Oregon, and California. Scattered along the coast you will find plenty of beach destinations and coastal towns, quaint villages with small town charm, culture, history, art, outdoor adventure, and night life! No matter how you choose to have fun and recharge yourself, there is something for everyone on the West Coast!

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San Diego, California

If you are looking for the perfect combination of a beach and city getaway for your West Coast weekend girls’ trip, San Diego should be one of your top choices! You can experience waves, sand in your toes, sunbathing, culture, spa days, night life, and even tequila tasting!

For some relaxation, visit Balboa Park where you can enjoy a stroll or bike ride through the park, a picnic lunch, and enjoy views of the many gardens found in the park. While in Balboa Park you will want to visit the colorful Spanish Village to view some local artwork and find unique, handcrafted items.

Visit a day spa to recharge and reenergize yourself while enjoying full body massages, body scrubs, facials, saunas, and whatever else will refresh you! San Diego has plenty of spa options to choose from. Spa at the Del offers a private pool to relax in, facials, and massages. SpaTerre at the Kona Kai Resort features massage chairs and exotic treatments including Thai Herbal Therapy and aromatherapy with medicinal herbs.

The San Diego Tequila Tour will take you to Rockin’ Baja Lobster, Old Town Tequila Factory, and El Agave Tequileria where you can taste unique tequila drinks while snacking on tortilla chips and salsa. Visit Old Town San Diego , aka the birthplace of California, for history museum, live music, and tasty treats.

For those looking to enjoy the Pacific Ocean, check out Mission Beach, La Jolla Shores & Cove, or Coronado City Beach. San Diego’s Mission Beach boardwalk is the perfect choice if you are looking for some waves and entertainment, while Coronado City Beach will give you a little bit quieter of an atmosphere. For a little bit more adventure check out Coronado’s bike and kayak tours or La Jolla Kayak Tours .

If you are up for some spooks tour the Whaley House Museum . For some nightlife be sure to visit Gaslamp Quarter in downtown San Diego, where you will find 16 blocks of nightclubs, rooftop bars, live music and dancing, and mouthwatering restaurants.

Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Mount Rainier National Park in Washington State has a unique experience to offer visitors no matter the season, so it should be considered for your West Coast weekend girls’ trip any time of year! Visit in the spring/summer for some hiking and wild flowers, visit in the fall for stunning fall foliage, or visit in winter for some skiing, snowshoeing, and winter hikes. Mount Rainier National Park encompasses 240,000 acres of forest with one of the main features being Mount Rainier, a 14,411 feet volcano.

For some scenic views, take a scenic drive along the White Pass or Chinook Scenic Byway or ride the Mt. Rainier Gondolas . The gondolas take you up 2,400 ft. to the summit, where you will be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding area.

For some shorter day hikes, check out the Nisqually Vista hike, Grove of the Patriarchs Nature Trail, or the Sourdough Ridge Trail. If you and the girls are up for more of a challenge, hike the Skyline Trail to Paranorma Point, the Tolmie Peak Trail, the Mount Freemont Lookout Trail, or the Green Lake Trail. If you are a waterfall chaser, be sure to visit Christine Falls, Myrtle Falls, Carter Falls, and Narada Falls which are easily reached with a short hike.

With all the hiking to be done in Mount Rainier National Park, you are sure to build up an appetite. Visit the Summit House , which is reached on the gondola ride, for fresh salads, soups, pastas, pizza, and chili. Or enjoy a Sunday brunch at the Paradise Inn Dining Room with stunning views of Mount Rainier in the background.

Big Sur, California

Big Sur, California is the perfect West Coast area for a girls’ weekend road trip. Big Sur is a 90 mile stretch along the Pacific coast extending from Carmel southward to San Simeon. The total drive is about two hours, but if you take advantage of all the lookouts and stop points you can easily spend a weekend there.

The best route along the Big Sur is North to West, so a start in Camel is your best option. Carmel-By-the-Sea is a small, charming costal village with lots of local shops and restaurants. While in Carmel you can also hit the beach or visit the Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo , a restored Roman Catholic mission church.

As you begin your journey you will want to stop at the Point Lobos State Natural Preserve . Here you will find great views of the Pacific Ocean, sealions bathing in the sun, Cypress Groves, and many points of interest, including Bird Island, Whaler’s Cabin, and Devil’s Cauldron. Next, the Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail will take you along the cliff edges and step down to Garrapata State Beach a couple miles down the road.

The Bixby Creek Bridge is one of the most popular stops along Big Sur. There are pull off areas where you can stop for that instagrammable photo. The Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park will be next with plenty of opportunity for short hikes, such as the Pfeiffer Falls Trail or longer hikes, such as the Mt. Manuel Trail. A short drive from there will take you to the purple sands of Pfeiffer Beach. McWay Falls will be another must visit stop where you can get great views of the unique waterfall spilling into the ocean.

The best (and cheapest) way to spend a night in Big Sur is by camping or glamping. Treebones Resort offers camping, yurts, and luxury tents. Big Sur Campground & Cabins offers a selection of camping sites and cabins. For a price you can find indoor accommodations at the Post Ranch Inn or find some more affordable options at the Big Sur Lodge .

Orange County, California

Orange County is a region on the Southern California coast that is known for its theme parks and surfing beaches. For thrill seekers, Orange County should be considered for your West Coast weekend girls’ trip.

Orange County is home to Disneyland , a place for not only the young but also the young at heart. Enjoy your mom’s weekend away by riding Disney thrill rides Splash Mountain and Space Mountain, try some of Disney’s irresistible tasty treats, and meet your favorite childhood characters! As an alternative visit Knott’s Berry Farm , another well known theme park in the area or Knott’s Soak City, a waterpark.

Huntington Beach is one of the best stops for surfing, sunbathing, and sunset viewing. The Salt Creek Beach Park is another great option for catching some waves. Crystal Cove State Park is a great spot for relaxing and enjoying the waves crashing against the shore.

For some beautiful architecture and history visit the Mission San Juan Capistrano . Stroll Laguna Beach for art galleries, art festivals if you are visiting at the right time of year, and live entertainment. During low tide visit the tide pools at Laguna Beach to see them full of all sorts of sea life. Visit Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for hiking options, wild life viewing, horseback riding, or bike riding.

Enjoy some unique and local beers on an OC brewery tour or spend an afternoon shopping at Old Towne Orange. When the sun goes down you can get out and enjoy music, live entertainment, dancing, and drinks at one of OC’s many nightclubs and bars.

San Juan Islands, Washington

The San Juan Islands are a set of four islands (Lopez, Shaw, San Juan, and Orcas) located off the coast of Washington State. All four of the San Juan Islands can be reached via ferry from the town of Anacortes. The most popular and most adventurous of the islands are San Juan Island and Orcas Island.

On San Juan Island you can enjoy a seaplane tour , moped rental and tour, ride the Friday Harbor Jolly Trolley , visit Lime Kiln State Park and view the Lime Klin Lighthouse, enjoy a picnic lunch in front of the Cattle Point Lighthouse, go biking at American Camp and English Camp, go kayaking in the San Juan channel, hike to the summit of Mount Young, go shopping in Friday Harbor, or go scuba diving in the waters surrounding San Juan Island.

Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands, but is much quieter than San Juan Island. On Orcas Island, be sure to visit Orcas Village where you will find some small shops and a cidery. Hike or drive to the top of Mount Constitution for some stunning views of the surrounding areas, including views of Mount Rainier and Olympic National Park in the distance. Go waterfall chasing and hiking in  Moran State Park or go kayaking or paddle boarding on one of Orcas Island’s two lakes.

Enjoy some wine tasting at Madrone Cellars & Ciders on San Juan Island or the Orcas Island Winery on Orcas Island. Both San Juan Island and Orcas Island are home to spas to fulfill all your relaxation and rejuvenating needs. Get out on the water and enjoy some wild life on either San Juan Island or Orcas Island with a whale watching excursion .

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a well known city sitting on the coast of California, well known for the Golden Gate Bridge and the remaining Victorian style homes.

A West Coast weekend girls’ trip to San Francisco must include a ride on the iconic San Francisco cable car, a walk (or drive) along the most crooked street in the world (Lombard Street), a stop at the Golden Gate Bridge park to see the world famous Golden Gate Bridge, and a stop to snap an instagram worthy image on the tiled stairs in the Sunset District. For those interested in the darker side of San Francisco’s history take a trip to Alcatraz Island . For some relaxation enjoy a picnic lunch in Alamo Square Park and take in views of the Painted Ladies, some of San Francisco’s colorful Victorian homes.

Spend some time walking Pier 39 , viewing the sealions, enjoying waterfront views, visit some of San Francisco’s quirky attractions like the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum, Madame Tussaud’s, and grab some fresh seafood. If you are looking to enjoy some of San Francisco’s local food enjoy the Local Tastes of the City Tour . If you’re a Disney fan, be sure to visit the The Walt Disney Family Museum .

Enjoy some shopping at the Embarcadero District, Union Square, or Hayes Valley. When the sun goes down experience San Francisco’s nightlife by bar hopping along Valencia Street, Polk Street, or the Marina.

Portland, Oregon

If you’re looking for a city getaway on the West Coast of Oregon, Portland may be the stop for you! Enjoy views of the iconic St Johns Bridge from below at Cathedral Park or walk across on the pedestrian sidewalk. Hop aboard the Portland Aerial Tram for views of downtown Portland. Stroll the International Rose Garden or the Japanese Garden for a relaxing experience filled with dozens of colorful flower species.

Enjoy an underground walking tour and walk through the Shanghai Tunnels where illegal smuggling once took place. Get outdoors and enjoy some hiking through Washington Park or Forest Park. Join a guided tour of the Columbia River Gorge or visit on your own for some hiking and waterfall viewing.

Visit the Saturday Market (open Saturdays and Sundays) for fresh food and local, handmade arts & crafts. Catch a midnight showing of the Rocky Horror Picture Show at the Clinton Street Theater . Visit a unique bookstore at Powell’s City of Books.

For art lovers, visit the Portland Art Museum or the various galleries in the Pearl District and Old Town. Get out on the water and enjoy a Booze Cruise on a 14 passenger pedal powered boat. For some more liquor tasting visit Distillery Row where you will find 12 unique distilleries. For a tasty treat visit Voodoo Donuts for some unique donut flavors or visit Cartlandia for some tasty food truck meals.

For some night time fun you can enjoy some dancing, karaoke, bowling, and drinks at Dig a Pony, Holocene, White Owl Social Club, or the Goodfoot Pub & Lounge. Visit Old Town Chinatown on a weekend night when the streets are closed off to traffic and the streets come alive with music, dancing, and celebration!

Palm Springs, California

For a weekend getaway involving hot springs, shopping, spas, and nature California’s Spa City may be the answer for you! A trip to Palm Springs will give you plenty of options for relaxing and soaking in the many mineral hot springs believed to have healing powers.

Choose from Palm Spring’s spas, the Azure Spa, Estrella Spa, or Two Bunch Palms Spa, for a day of self care. Visit nearby Desert Hot Springs and explore the many hot and cold water mineral springs where you can soak in pools and jacuzzis after enjoying a massage and delicious cocktail.

For the outdoor gang, enjoy some stunning views of the Coachella Valley on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway , hike to the Tahquitz Waterfall nestled within the Tahquitz Canyon , visit nearby Joshua Tree National Park , or explore desert plants at the Moorten Botanical Gardens .

Enjoy an eco tour through the Coachella Valley and enjoy desert views, canyons, rock formations, and more! Go for a hike at the Agua Caliente Indian Canyons or at the Thousand Palms Oasis. For a unique view of the Coachella Valley enjoy a hot air balloon ride . Head out to the desert on a sunset tour for some seclusion and magnificent views.

If you enjoy museums and art, visit the Cabazon Cultural Museum, Allan Pitchko Art Galleries, Backstreet Art District Art Walk, or the Palm Springs Art Museum. You can catch some live entertainment at the Annenberg Theater. If golfing is your thing you will find over 100 championship-level golf courses in the area. For some shopping visit the Shops on El Paseo or along Palm Canyon Drive. You can also find plenty of night life options in Palm Springs, from casinos to night clubs and bars.

Joseph, Oregon

Located in Eastern Oregon, Joseph is a city featuring plenty of outdoor expeditions, natural beauty, adventure, shopping, and culture! Although you won’t find access to the Pacific Ocean, there is much to be adored and admired on a west coast weekend girls’ trip to Joseph.

For some outdoor adventure, Joseph is known for its whitewater rafting adventures. You can join one of many tours with Winding Waters River Expeditions . Joseph is also home to miles of excellent mountain biking trails. Visit Wallowa Lake State Park for some outdoor fun-swimming, kayaking, and paddle boating. Take a ride on the Wallowa Lake Tram for stunning views of Wallowa Lake and enjoy a nice meal at the Summit Grill .

Go horseback riding or hiking at the Hells Canyon National Recreation Area or for a unique experience take a ride on the Joseph Brach Rail railriders through Wallowa Valley. You can also hike your way to one of the many lakes in Joseph and the surrounding area, including Maxwell Lake, Mirror Lake, Brownie Basin, LaGore Lake, and Copper Creek Basin. If visiting in the summer and looking for a place to cool off visit the Blue Hole, which can be accessed from the Indian Crossing Trailhead.

Go shopping for some local fresh food and handmade arts & crafts at the Wallowa Valley Farmers Market every Saturday or stroll downtown Joseph for cute local shops and boutiques. Stop at Arrowhead Chocolates for some chocolatey treats, coffee, and tea. Visit the Stein Distillery in downtown Joseph for whiskey tasting or Embers Brewhouse for food and local brews.

Willamette Valley, Oregon

For wine lovers, the Willamette Valley wine region is one destination you should consider for your west coast girls’ weekend trip with over 600 wineries in the region. Willamette Valley is a 150 mile long valley stretching from Portland Southward to Eugene.

A wine tasting tour, either self planned or guided , is a given when visiting Willamette Valley. Some of the must visit wineries in the region include Willamette Valley Vineyards, Eyrie Vineyards, and the Domaine Serene Winery.

Aside from wine tasting, a stay at the Allison Inn & Spa can make your trip complete. The inn features a full spa with massages, facials, manicures, & pedicures, a sculpture garden, and an onsite restaurant. For art lovers visit the areas many art museums, including the Hallie Ford Museum of Art, the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, and the Mid-Willamette Valley Art Trail.

A visit to Silver Falls State Park will give you the opportunity to hike, camp, go horseback riding, and view Silver Falls. If you’re a bike rider go for a ride along the Willamette Valley Scenic Bikeway or follow the Covered Bridges Scenic Bikeway.

Grants Pass, Oregon

Grants Pass is a city located in Southern Oregon near the Rouge River. Grants Pass is a great West Coast weekend girls’ trip option for an outdoor escape combined with art and culture.

Grants Pass offers plenty of water activities. Hop aboard one of Hellgate Jetboat Excursions ‘ tours for a thrilling time on Rogue River or choose from many tour companies for a rafting experience on the river. Another way to experience Rouge River is by walking the pedestrian bridge at Reinhart Park.

See the beautiful Rainie Falls after a moderate 3.7 mile hike or choose from trails of all levels for a hike at Cathedral Hills. Go ziplining at Rogue Valley Zipline Adventure. Visit nearby Oregon Caves National Monument for a unique tour of the cave system.

If visiting in season, be sure to stop at Lavender Fields Forever and stroll through fields of bright purple lavender and stop for a photo op. Explore a real life ghost town, Golden, which was once a mining town home to over 100 residents.

For art lovers visit the Grants Pass Museum of Art or catch a live performance at the Barnstormers Theatre or Rogue Theatre. Visit Glass Forge to see stunning works or art and watch glass blowing live. Go wine tasting along the Applegate Wine Trail , featuring 19 local and distinct wineries. Shop downtown Grants Pass for the many local boutique shops and antique stores.

Bandon, Oregon

Bandon, Oregon is one of the best west coast weekend girls’ trip destinations for relaxation with less crowds and a slower pace than some of Oregon’s coastal towns.

For some scenic views visit the Coquille River Lighthouse or drive the Beach Loop Drive to some well known rock formations, including Face Rock, Elephant Rock, and Wizard’s Hat. Walk along the beach and view the tide pools full of sea life. Go horseback riding along the beach with Bandon Beach Riding Stables .

Bandon is known for its fishing, crabbing, and clamming, so why not try your hand at it while visiting? You can visit a local fishing shop to get supplies and training. If visiting in early September, check to see if the Cranberry Festival will be going on, where you could enjoy live entertainment, cranberry eating contests, dancing, artisans, and delicious food!

Stroll the streets of Old Town for shopping at unique boutiques, local shops, and art galleries or take a walk along the Coquille River boardwalk for fresh air and wild life viewing. View some local art at the Second Street Gallery or Art By the Sea.

Instead of wine tasting, go “sweets tasting” at The Cranberry Sweets & More Store . The store has a wide variety of selections, including Key Lime Tea cookies, Beer & Cider Candies, Cranberry Walnut fudge, and flavored jelly beans, popcorn, and toffee’s. If you prefer some ice cream or gourmet cheeses visit the Face Rock Creamery . Visit Tony’s Crab Shack for their crab sandwich or the Bandon Fish Market where you will find a wide selection of fish.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

With four miles of beach along the Pacific Ocean, Cannon Beach makes for the perfect sun and sand West Coast weekend girls’ trip getaway. Located on the coast of Oregon, this small seaside city is known for Haystack Rock and the nearby tidal pools, it’s section of the North Coast food tour, state parks, and shopping! For the outdoor enthusiast you can find hikes, biking, water sports, and Cannon Beach Walking Tours !

If your main reason for visiting Cannon Beach is the water, be sure to visit Ecola State Park . Your visit will start with a drive through the Ecola State Park rain forest that will take you to the beachfront with stunning views of Haystack Rock and the coastline. Within the park you can find hiking trails, views of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse , and spots for bird and whale watching. Throughout the park you can find plenty of tide pools full of sea life.

Many of Cannon Beach’s restaurants are featured on the North Coast Food Tour , including Ecola Seafoods, Sea Level Bakery, Public Coast Brewing, MacGregor’s Whiskey Bar and Restaurant, and even a cooking school, EVOO Cooking School , where you can learn to make a new tasty dish!

Although you won’t find any chain stores in Cannon Beach, you can find plenty of small, local specialty shops, boutiques, and galleries that the small city is well known for. You can find everything from regionally designed fashion, handcrafted jewelry, unique wines, and locally made art pieces. You will also find an old fashioned candy shop in town with taffy, hand dipped chocolate, and plenty of candy jars!

Olympic National Park, Washington

If your perfect idea of a West Coast weekend girls’ trip is a retreat into nature, Olympic National Park should be on your list of options! Olympic National Park, sitting on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington State, is home to a wide range of ecosystems, from a rainforest, waterfalls, beaches, and mountains, there is something for any outdoor lover to enjoy!

When visiting Olympic National Park, be sure to visit the Hoh Rain Forest to see stunning moss covered trees. Tracking down some of the largest trees in the country are worth the effort when visiting Olympic National Park. You can find the largest Sitka spruce in the country at 191 ft., the tallest Pacific silver fir at 220 ft., and the largest Douglas fir at 281 ft.

Spend the day at one of Olympic National Park’s beaches, such as Kalaloch Beach or Shi Shi Beach, for tide pool viewing, wild life viewing, high bluffs, and some stunning Pacific Ocean views. You can also find some water sports-kayaking, canoeing, or paddle boarding on Olympic National Park’s two lakes.

Olympic National Park has plenty of hiking options of all difficulties. For some easy hikes check out the Hoh Rain Forest Hall of Moss, Staircase Rapids Loop, or the Quinault Rain Forest Nature Trail. For some more difficult hikes check out the Grand Pass Trail, the Switchback Trail, or the Sunrise Ridge Trail. For waterfall chasers hike to Sol Duc Falls or Marymere Falls. Visit the Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and soak in their three mineral hot springs pools.

You can expect to run into some wildlife while exploring the park, from deer and elk to cougars and bears. Throughout the park you will also find some spots along the The Whale Trail , where you may get lucky enough to spot these majestic creatures off the coast. For a unique and mesmerizing experience choose to camp overnight in the park. When the sun goes down the sky will come to life as billions of stars come aglow.

Astoria, Oregon

This small town situated at the mouth of the Columbia River is full of natural beauty, history, shopping, and fun! Begin your trip in Downtown Astoria, where you can find loads of local shops and breweries. Enjoy stunning views of the Columbia River along the Astoria Riverwalk as you walk past ports, lighthouses, ferries, and more!

For some stunning views of Astoria, climb to the top of the Astoria Column , a historic monument honoring the original settlers of the area. For some relaxation stroll the gardens, ponds, and statues at Garden of Surging Waves . If you are interested in the history of the area visit Fort Astoria or Fort Stevens State Park. A visit to the Astoria Sunday Market will have you enjoying hundreds of local vendors and tastes from around the world.

Visit the Clatsop Spit, an area of jagged black rocks along the beach known for its shipwrecks. Visit the Painted Lady Lavender Farm and stroll through fields of purple as far as the eye can see. Enjoy a secluded hike to Youngs River Falls.

If you and your girls are a fan of the Goonies, Astoria is home to many Goonies’ film locations , including the County Jail, bowling alley, Lower Columbia Bowl, Cannon Beach, many of the character homes, and more!

After a long day exploring visit the Astoria Aquatic Center to soak in some hot tubs. You can also find plenty of breweries to visit in Astoria, such as the Fort George Brewery or the Buoy Beer Company.

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Published by Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa (or Missy). I'm a nurse by day, but my true passion is travel. I'm a part time traveler, travel blogger, and photographer. Travel blogging allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with you as well as allows me to share in your experiences and learn from you. View all posts by Melissa

I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!

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What a great idea for the girls to do a getaway trip. A spa day in San Diego sounds exactly how I would want to start this trip. It would be fun to hit La Jolla and the sea lions all chilled out! National Parks and roaring surfs could then amp up the energy. We have always missed the San Juan Islands on our west coast trips. But the Friday Harbour Chocolates Tasting Room and wine tasting is a great reason not to miss them the next visit. Awesome stops for a girls trip.

My sister lives out in Portland. I don’t think she has done half the things you mentioned. I will have to go visit and check out these sights with her.

I’ve been meaning to take a weekend trip to Big Sur or Portland, but there are some awesome-sounding spots on this list that I hadn’t heard of, too! Looks like the West has some wonderful opportunities… might need more than a weekend!

Great ideas for weekends for moms who need relaxation and a moment of rest. I haven’t been to Joseph, Oregon, and the San Juan Islands, Washington yet, and would love to add to my list for next trip..

This is a fabulous list of West Coast trips! I love that you’re highlighting the need for Mom Breaks and getaways. We just don’t think of ourselves often enough, do we?

As a West coast girl, I’m always looking for new weekend trips, there’s a couple here I haven’t done!

Sad to see that Seattle didn’t make the list. 🙁 I petsit there frequently and I never run out of things to do and see. But the other Washington state destinations are spot on fabulous choices! Thanks for the list!

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Best weekend getaways in the midwest.

Twelve states make up America's Midwest, known for its friendly people and rolling fields filled with crops like corn and soybeans. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns, scenic escapes on the Great Lakes and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. U.S. News considered factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Use this list to plan your next adventure, then weigh in by voting for your favorite location below.

Mackinac Island

Wisconsin dells, black hills national forest, lake of the ozarks, traverse city, madison, wi, kansas city, minneapolis - st. paul, hocking hills state park, door county, voyageurs national park.

Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. The island is unique in that there are no cars or chain hotels – instead, horse-drawn carriages, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and family-owned hotels are the norm – so travelers can truly embrace the Lake Huron destination's small-town charm. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. What's more, Mackinac Island offers a variety of eateries serving everything from American comfort classics to its famous fudge.

The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. Because many of the top-notch water parks offer indoor pools and slides, they remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple resorts , golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes.

As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, the Windy City is a popular option for a weekend getaway. Chicago houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches or iconic sculptures like "The Bean." Plus, the city boasts incredible architecture, which is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan, and is a haven for foodies thanks to its smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine, ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish. No weekend trip would be complete without visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. The small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness and is a haven for outdoorsy types. In the Black Hills, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. The Black Hills is also famous for housing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents. If you don't want to camp during your visit, plan on staying in Rapid City, the closest major city to the Black Hills.

By impounding the Osage River, the state of Missouri created the Lake of the Ozarks, an expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline. Plan on spending most of your time at this central Missouri lake destination on or around the water. Rent a boat to explore and access waterfront spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave and various restaurants and resorts. When you need a break from the water, hit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail.

This Minnesota city on the shores of Lake Superior is ideal for a weekend getaway. In the Canal Park area, visitors can bike or walk along the Lakewalk, a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, snap pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge and peruse local art galleries. Travelers can also experience the city's finer features by touring all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or booking a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. What's more, refreshments are easy to come by with Duluth's selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

With attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha is a solid choice for a family trip. But this Nebraska hub appeals to all travelers with its history (best showcased at The Durham Museum), nature attractions (like the Lauritzen Gardens botanical center) and a thriving arts community (including interactive performing arts venues). Omaha also features a noteworthy food scene, with neighborhoods like the Blackstone District, home of the Reuben sandwich, and venues ranging from old-school steakhouses to award-winning sushi establishments.

Located in the northern section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City's offerings are mostly dictated by its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This impressive protected area stretches 64 miles along Lake Michigan's coast and sits about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City, providing visitors countless opportunities to camp, hike, sunbathe and more. Closer to town, travelers can explore Grand Traverse Bay or one of the region's lakes via kayak or canoe. Adults also appreciate Traverse City's selection of wineries and microbreweries, while families enjoy visiting museums like The Music House Museum, which showcases rare organs and pianos.

Wisconsin's capital city is where you'll find the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin. The university plays a significant part in the city's cultural offerings by way of on-campus sights like Memorial Union, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum and the Chazen Museum of Art. Still, the city offers its own share of noteworthy attractions, including the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Henry Vilas Zoo and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, Madison provides easy access to multiple hiking trails and features a fun downtown area where you can grab dinner, listen to live music and people watch.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Iowa's capital has a lot going for it. Situated in the center of a state known for its farming, Des Moines offers true farm-to-table cuisine, as well as the much-lauded Downtown Farmers' Market with 300-plus vendors. Meanwhile, boutiques abound in the quaint East Village district, and bikers can pedal their way along more than 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail, which crosses a 13-story bridge. Visit in the summer to make the most of your time outdoors and to take advantage of events like the 80/35 music festival.

Milwaukee's hearty comfort food and eclectic collection of museums and historical sites are sure to appeal to all kinds of weekend visitors. The city's foremost museums are the Harley-Davidson Museum, which spans 20 acres along the riverfront, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which boasts three futuristic-looking buildings and a collection with more than 30,000 pieces. Beer and history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the 19th-century Pabst Mansion or the Lakefront Brewery, while foodies will want to swing by the Milwaukee Public Market to purchase or learn how to cook a memorable meal (just don't skip the cheese curds).

Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. Many of Cincinnati's top parks, including 186-acre Eden Park, overlook the river, providing countless opportunities for scenic strolls. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Music Hall.

The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over St. Louis and marks the city's status as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. Head to Forest Park to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum and the renowned Saint Louis Zoo , neither of which charges an entry fee. Then, take a tour of some of St. Louis' noteworthy historical sights, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Kansas City straddles the border of Missouri and Kansas, putting the surprisingly trendy city within driving distance of a number of Midwestern destinations. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Kansas City's Country Club Plaza – which offers an assortment of eateries and stores, and sits within walking distance of a number of hotels – is also worth checking out. Remember to set aside time for perusing some of the city's top museums, too, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. Travelers can spend the weekend perusing the exhibits at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, attending productions at the Guthrie Theater or getting a dose of local history at sights like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center. On warm, sunny days, visitors will also want to take advantage of Minnesota's natural beauty by going for a stroll through the Chain of Lakes byway district or Minnehaha Regional Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas.

Thrill-seekers flock to this Ohio destination on Lake Erie for its world-class amusement park – Cedar Point. The park's 70 rides, including a whopping 18 roller coasters, are its main draw, but the sprawling water park and entertainment options also impress travelers of all ages. Beyond the mega-park, this coastal town also boasts family-owned dining venues and the Ohio Cheers Trail, which highlights local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Plus, cruises to the neighboring islands of Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are an ideal way to slow things down after an action-packed day.

Less than an hour's drive from Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect nature-filled weekend escape. Hocking Hills State Park's deep gorges, sandstone cliffs and leafy forests are beautiful in any season – whether dotted with wildflowers in the spring or covered with ice formations in winter. Travelers can hike to popular spots like the Ash Cave and Cedar Falls, climb the park's natural rock walls or kayak and canoe on lakes and rivers. Plus, with modern A-frames and trendy cabins to rent in the surrounding area, you'll have all the comforts of home on your getaway.   

Whether you're seeking natural splendor, villages full of character or a weekend of sampling some of the Midwest's finest cuisine, Door County, Wisconsin, will deliver. Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan about 70 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County boasts 300 miles of shoreline and countless parks that add up to 23,000 acres. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, explore the art galleries, lighthouses and museums in communities like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay. Don’t miss out on the region's must-try food experiences: cherry picking, cheese tasting and dining at a traditional Wisconsin supper club.

Within comfortable driving distance of Chicago, Milwaukee and Cedar Rapids, this northwest Illinois town is a top option for an old-fashioned Midwestern weekend getaway. Galena is full of small-town charm, with bespoke experiences like antique tractor driving and carving workshops, historical sites like the home of Ulysses S. Grant and a Hallmark-worthy Main Street. Plus, the surrounding region offers bucolic rolling hills, antique shops, wineries, farms and 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts. With events throughout the year (including the popular Great Galena Balloon Race in June), as well as seasonal skiing, Galena is a great getaway any time of year.

To make the most of your weekend, you'll want to hit the road early to get to this harder-to-reach Minnesota destination (about 300 miles north of Minneapolis on the Canadian border). Most of Voyageurs National Park, which is characterized by calm lakes, aromatic evergreens and granite cliffs, is only accessible by boat, meaning you'll be fully immersed in its natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, rent a houseboat for a unique lodging option. But colder seasons have their charms, too. Since the park is a phenomenal place to see the northern lights , the sky may just put on a show for you as the nights get longer. 

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Best Places to Visit in Michigan

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Search for Cheap Deals on Hotels in Elektrostal

Check last minute elektrostal hotel deals.

Find cheap hotels in Elektrostal

You’re not an average traveler—and Hotwire knows it. Your wanderlust takes you off the beaten path to discover unique adventures and every travel destination’s lesser-known tourist scenes. Hotwire has the hookup! Book your Elektrostal hotel with Hotwire to complete your one-of-a-kind travel checklist.

For you, intrepid voyager, Hotwire has a large selection of the best hotels in Elektrostal.

Choosing the right hotel in Moscow Oblast has everything to do with the way you want your trip to go. If you’ve scribbled a few obscure destinations on your itinerary, you probably already have a good sense of how your getaway is taking shape. Lean into that by booking one of Elektrostal’s hotels. Choose the one that best catches your trip’s tourist drift.

If you’re traveling during the week for business, Hotwire can score you a luxury hotel for as low as . In town for pleasure? Hotwire still has you covered. If you’re in the mood for a quick last-minute weekend getaway or spa retreat, you can get up to 60% Elektrostal hotel deals at the last minute.

While traveling, where you stay plays a major role in your overall vacation enjoyment. Choosing the right hotel is just as important as making sure you book the right flight and car rental. If you’re traveling with family or friends, you may need to book a hotel with connecting rooms. If you enjoy an elegant and relaxing hotel ambiance, opt for one of Hotwire’s luxury hotels in Elektrostal. No matter your reason for visiting Elektrostal, with Hotwire’s large selection of hotels in the area, you’re sure to book a hotel that meets all your accommodation needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Elektrostal hotels

Where can i find the best last-minute travel deals.

If you’re traveling in the spirit of spontaneity, you’ll love the idea of leaving your exact hotel choice up to chance. With Hotwire Hot Rates, you can save up to 60% off your next flight, hotel, or car rental. Just plug in your general preferences and let Hotwire choose last-minute hotel deals in Elektrostal for as low as .

How many hotels are there in Elektrostal?

With over hotels in Elektrostal, you’re sure to find one that best matches your travel mood. When you book with Hotwire, you can score a stellar home away from home for as low as .

How to find cheap car rentals in Elektrostal?

Finding a cheap car rental deal in Elektrostal is as easy as scoring cheap hotels in Elektrostal. Hotwire partners with top-of-the-line car rental companies to bring you a large selection of affordable options. Whether you’re in need of a large SUV for the entire family or a more compact but stylish vehicle, Hotwire has you covered. You can even save up to 60% off a car rental deal if you book a Hotwire Hot Rate at the last minute.

Is it safe to travel to Elektrostal now?

With recent COVID-19 closures and reopenings, many people are wondering, “Is it safe to travel to Elektrostal right now?” When it’s time to book your getaway, be sure to check out the most up-to-date information on all safety measures, any restrictions, and  guidance on traveling during the coronavirus  pandemic.

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• Hotels near Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Hotels near Peter the Great Military Academy
• Hotels near Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Hotels near History of Russian Scarfs and Shawls Museum
• Hotels near Balashikha Arena
• Hotels near Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Hotels near Bykovo Manor
• Hotels near Pekhorka Park
• Hotels near Malenky Puppet Theater
• Hotels near Military Technical Museum
• Hotels near Church of Our Lady of Kazan
• Hotels near Drama Theatre BOOM
• Hotels near Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Hotels near Fryazino Centre for Culture and Leisure
• Hotels near Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center
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Elektrostal Hotel & Travel Guide

Travelocity's Russia hotels database doesn't list any place to sleep in Elektrostal.

When you and your family plan to book Travelocity-listed hotels near this region of Russia, Moscow could be an ideal alternative. It can be located 35 miles (54 kilometers) from Elektrostal. Moscow hotels and apartments include he The Ritz-Carlton, Moscow and Ararat Park Hyatt Moscow .

Once you and your family have got to know Elektrostal, why not explore a little more of the area? The Central Russia district has myriad things to offer visitors. Discover Central Russia's old towns and don't forget to see the region's forests, rivers, canals and mountains. In this corner of Russia adventurous travelers might partake in ice skating and four-wheel driving.

35 miles (59 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal you will find Garden Ring, where you can spend a little time at the Arena CSKA. Khoroshevskiy rooms include the Kutuzovsky prospekt II and Hotel Bega . If you're looking for an alternative, you can visit Garden Ring, 35 miles (53 kilometers) west of Elektrostal. While you are in Garden Ring, take the time to explore the State Literary Museum. The Hotel Savoy Moscow and Hotel Metropol Moscow are great places to retire for the night.

While in town, don't miss out on enjoying thrills and spills in the company of fellow supporters at an engaging game. Luzhniki Stadium can be found 35 miles (58 kilometers) to the west of Elektrostal. Book a Travelocity-listed hotel right in the thick of the sporting action at the Moscow Suites Noviy Arbat or the LikeHome Apartments Arbat .

Before you and your traveling partner journey to Elektrostal, make sure you browse Travelocity's Elektrostal city guide where you can hear local secrets about the numerous attractions on offer.

Elektrostal hotels essential information

Frequently asked questions, hotels near….

• Vnukovo Intl. Airport Hotels
• Sheremetyevo Airport Hotels
• Domodedovo Intl. Airport Hotels

Areas of Elektrostal

• Northern Europe Hotels
• Eastern Europe Hotels
• Lyubertsy Hotels
• Balashikha Hotels
• Ramenskoye Hotels
• Noginsk Hotels
• Kosherovo Hotels
• Zheleznodorozhny Hotels
• Shchelkovo Hotels
• Zhukovsky Hotels
• Ogudnevskoe Hotels
• Central Russia Hotels
• Fryazevo Hotels
• Istomkino Hotels
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• Imeni Vorovskogo Hotels
• Berezka Hotels
• Afonasovo Pervoye Hotels
• Bol'shoye Bun'kovo Hotels
• Pavlovskiy Posad Hotels
• Bol'shiye Dvory Hotels
• Kolontayevo Hotels
• Obukhovo Hotels
• Zhilino Hotels
• Kuznetsy Hotels
• Noginskiy Rayon Hotels
• Kudinovo Hotels
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• Mar'ino-3 Hotels
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• Monino Hotels
• Staraya Kupavna Hotels
• Gzhel' Hotels
• Mishchukovo Hotels
• Pashukovo Hotels
• Voskresenskoye Hotels
• Donino Hotels
• Losino-Petrovsky Hotels
• Byvalino Hotels

Trains Moscow to Elektrostal: Times, Prices and Tickets

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Moscow to Elektrostal by train

The journey from Moscow to Elektrostal by train is 32.44 mi and takes 2 hr 7 min. There are 71 connections per day, with the first departure at 12:15 AM and the last at 11:46 PM. It is possible to travel from Moscow to Elektrostal by train for as little as or as much as . The best price for this journey is .

Get from Moscow to Elektrostal with Virail

Virail's search tool will provide you with the options you need when you want to go from Moscow to Elektrostal. All you need to do is enter the dates of your planned journey, and let us take care of everything else. Our engine does the hard work, searching through thousands of routes offered by our trusted travel partners to show you options for traveling by train, bus, plane, or carpool. You can filter the results to suit your needs. There are a number of filtering options, including price, one-way or round trip, departure or arrival time, duration of journey, or number of connections. Soon you'll find the best choice for your journey. When you're ready, Virail will transfer you to the provider's website to complete the booking. No matter where you're going, get there with Virail.

How can I find the cheapest train tickets to get from Moscow to Elektrostal?

Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. You can find train tickets for prices as low as , but it may require some flexibility with your travel plans. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets. Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results. Prices will vary when you travel from Moscow to Elektrostal. On average, though, you'll pay about for a train ticket. If you're looking for a low price, you may need to prepare to spend more time in transit. You can also often find cheaper train tickets at particular times of day, or on certain days of the week. Of course, ticket prices often change during the year, too; expect to pay more in peak season. For the lowest prices, it's usually best to make your reservation in advance. Be careful, though, as many providers do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest train tickets.

How long does it take to get from Moscow to Elektrostal by train?

The journey between Moscow and Elektrostal by train is approximately 32.44 mi. It will take you more or less 2 hr 7 min to complete this journey. This average figure does not take into account any delays that might arise on your route in exceptional circumstances. If you are planning to make a connection or operating on a tight schedule, give yourself plenty of time. The distance between Moscow and Elektrostal is around 32.44 mi. Depending on the exact route and provider you travel with, your journey time can vary. On average, this journey will take approximately 2 hr 7 min. However, the fastest routes between Moscow and Elektrostal take 1 hr 3 min. If a fast journey is a priority for you when traveling, look out for express services that may get you there faster. Some flexibility may be necessary when booking. Often, these services only leave at particular times of day - or even on certain days of the week. You may also find a faster journey by taking an indirect route and connecting in another station along the way.

How many journeys from Moscow to Elektrostal are there every day?

On average, there are 71 daily departures from Moscow to Elektrostal. However, there may be more or less on different days. Providers' timetables can change on certain days of the week or public holidays, and many also vary at particular times of year. Some providers change their schedules during the summer season, for example. At very busy times, there may be up to departures each day. The providers that travel along this route include , and each operates according to their own specific schedules. As a traveler, you may prefer a direct journey, or you may not mind making changes and connections. If you have heavy suitcases, a direct journey could be best; otherwise, you might be able to save money and enjoy more flexibility by making a change along the way. Every day, there are an average of 18 departures from Moscow which travel directly to Elektrostal. There are 53 journeys with one change or more. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from Moscow to Elektrostal, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from Moscow to Elektrostal.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book cheap train tickets from Moscow to Elektrostal

The cheapest Moscow - Elektrostal train tickets can be found for as low as $35.01 if you’re lucky, or $54.00 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $77.49.

Find the best day to travel to Elektrostal by train

When travelling to Elektrostal by train, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Moscow to Elektrostal CO2 Emissions by Train

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