Best US Cities for a Weekend Getaway

Sometimes, you just need to get away for a weekend. It’s not always easy to have the time or money to spend days away from home, but a weekend getaway can be just the thing to change your scenery for a short time without breaking the bank. Here are five spots to consider when planning your weekend getaway to a U.S. destination.

Easy and Affordable Weekend Getaway: Indianapolis, IN

There are a wide range of attractions in Indianapolis that you can take advantage of for free. One example is the Monon Trail. Connecting downtown Indianapolis to the Carmel area, the trail is packed with shops and restaurants. Another relaxing spot is the 250-acre White River State Park. In the summer, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is worth a visit just for the scenic grounds. They also have free admission on the first Thursday of the month. If you have kids, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum is the largest children’s museum in the world.

Heart of Country Music: Nashville, TN

If you’re a country music buff, then Nashville might be your perfect weekend getaway. Even if you’re not a fan, Nashville still has plenty to do. Some of the city’s best features include its live music shows, excellent BBQ restaurants with Nashville’s famous hot chicken, and a bustling historic district. There is a wide variety of hotels to choose from as well, including larger chains and more quaint inns with a homey feel. Between musical stops, a must-see attraction is the full-size replica of the Athens’ Parthenon in Centennial Park.

A Never Boring Weekend Getaway: Austin, TX

It may be the state capital of Texas, but Austin is anything but boring. Live music is a huge draw in Austin, and many concert venues feature country, jazz, bluegrass, and more. Texas BBQ is a must-try, and there is no shortage of restaurants to choose from. For historic stops, consider the Lyndon Johnson Presidential Library with its replica of LBJ’s Oval Office. If you visit Austin during nice weather, head for Barton Springs, the oldest swimming pool in the state.

Natural Beauty: Portland, OR

The great thing about Portland is that you don’t have to go far to find nature outside the city. The city itself is packed with quaint shops, micro coffee spots, and a wide variety of restaurants. However, it’s just outside the city where you can check out all the natural beauty of Oregon and the Northwest. The Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge is only 20 miles south of the city, where you can enjoy scenic rolling hills and explore local wineries.

Southern Charm: Savannah, GA

On the far eastern coast of Georgia is the oldest city in the state, Savannah. Packed with Southern charm and historic buildings, Savannah is a fantastic weekend getaway for history buffs. It’s filled with American heritage spots, museums, and relics from the Civil War. However, there are plenty of other things to do besides explore history. Stroll the Savannah River waterfront, take a trip out to Tybee Island, or make a list of all the great restaurants to try during your stay.

Whether you decide to visit the South, stay in the Heartland, or go out West, there are plenty of options for weekend getaways in the United States.