The 10 Best American Romantic Getaways
If you’re in any sort of committed relationship, taking a romantic getaway together is a wonderful way to keep the romance alive. This is true whether you just met a new love interest or you’re celebrating an anniversary in the double digits. There’s just nothing quite like connecting over new experiences in beautiful, romantic settings.
Maybe spending a weekend lounging by the pool or being pampered in the spa is your definition of romance. Perhaps you’d rather eat and sip your way around a destination, or maybe your style is more hiking and exploring a new destination together. Whatever it is you’re hoping to experience, there are plenty of romantic getaways in the U.S. to choose from.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Something about the mountains, cozy log cabins, brisk mornings, and Southern food just screams “romantic getaway.” Asheville, located in western North Carolina near the Tennessee border, combines all these things (and much more) in a picture-perfect setting. Head to this beautiful little mountain town for a romantic getaway filled with hiking, spectacular sunsets, scenic drives, spa treatments, or a little of everything.
Asheville is the perfect basecamp for experiencing both the Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park. You could easily spend all your time here exploring, but don’t overlook some of the in-town offerings. Tour the Biltmore Estate, the largest home in America, then watch the sunset as you dine at the aptly named Omni Grove Park Inn Sunset Terrace. Wind your weekend down by hopping around to some of the local breweries to find out why Asheville is known as Beer City USA.
Where to stay: You can’t go wrong with renting a cabin or even a treehouse in Asheville’s mountains (seriously, is there anything more romantic?!). If you prefer to be closer to all the action downtown, consider the historic Hayward Park Hotel, with its oversized suites and champagne welcome.
2. Wine Country, California
It’s hard to top California Wine Country when it comes to romantic getaways – even if you’re not wine drinkers. There’s world-class food and romantic wineries, of course, but there’s also beautiful scenery, intimate accommodations, luxurious spas, and plenty of ways to be active. The hardest part of a Wine Country getaway is simply deciding where to stay and what to do.
For the most part, Wine Country is divided into Napa and Sonoma. There are dozens of smaller communities that comprise Wine Country, but the bulk of what you’ll want to see and do is concentrated in these two areas. While Napa and Sonoma are right next to one another, they have distinctly different vibes. Napa is slightly more famous, which means it’s often busier, and Sonoma is noticeably more laid-back. If possible, split your stay between both.
Where to stay: Especially if you want to visit both Sonoma and Napa, it may be smart to stay slightly out of town. Farmhouse Inn in Forestville, just over an hour from both, puts you in an ideal location for exploring, plus it’s incredibly romantic and luxurious. The intimate B&B is nestled among giant redwood trees along the Russian River and not far from the coast.
3. Park City, Utah
Park City may be known primarily as a skiing and snowboarding destination, but it’s perfect for a romantic getaway in any season. In addition to the winter sports and outdoor adventure Park City is so well-known for, the town itself is charming and quaint, there are dozens of incredible restaurants, you can indulge in pampering spa treatments, and then there’s the jaw-dropping scenery.
For a romantic getaway in Park City in the winter, you absolutely have to hit the slopes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a veteran, you’ll find runs perfectly suited to your comfort level and abilities. As alternatives, you can also rent snowmobiles or even go for a bobsled ride at Utah Olympic Park. In the summer, check out Park City’s hiking trails, try fly fishing, play a round of golf, or go for a romantic horseback ride.
Where to stay: In any season, one of the most romantic hotels in Park City is Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley. Enjoy ski-in, ski-out access to Deer Valley Ski Resort in the winter, lodge-style rooms, a top-rated spa, and an outdoor pool that’s open year-round.
4. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Doesn’t taking a horse-drawn carriage around a scenic island sound romantic? Now add in sampling freshly-made fudge, walking around to eclectic shops, watching the sunset, and retiring for the night to a boutique inn. You can experience all that and more on Michigan’s Mackinac Island, located way up north on Lake Huron near the Canadian border.
One of the most unique things about visiting Mackinac Island is that cars aren’t allowed on the island. There are literally no cars, including taxis or rideshares – just pedestrians, bicycles, and horses. And their carriages. Rent bikes, hire a carriage, or kayak to Sunset Rock, then make your way over to Fort Holmes, the island’s highest point, for incredible stargazing.
Where to stay: The historic Island House Hotel truly looks like something right out of a storybook. Its waterfront location provides unparalleled views and it’s super close to downtown, but the setting is incredibly peaceful and relaxing. There’s even a Romance Package that includes dinner in the famed 1852 Grill Room and chilled sparkling wine.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Literally, everything about Sedona is romantic. The gorgeous, iconic red rock formations, the laid-back pace of life, the clear desert night skies, the focus on wellness, the dimly-lit restaurants, the adventure… all of it. Whatever sort of vibe you’re seeking for your romantic getaway, Sedona is a wonderful option.
Imagine starting the day with a sunrise hike to Airport Mesa, then indulging in a healing spa treatment and leisurely lunch uptown. Later in the afternoon, pack some snacks and check out one of the area’s natural swimming holes (you’ll have to ask some locals about their favorite spots – Sedona is full of secret spots!). Enjoy dinner with wine and live music, and then find a spot just outside of town to stargaze.
Where to stay: Sedona is full of upscale hotels and sprawling resorts. A Sunset Chateau isn’t one of them, but that’s a very good thing. You’ll be treated to personalized service and details that only come with staying in a boutique property, plus sweeping views of Sedona and luxury amenities. Relax in your spacious suite or soak up some rays by the saltwater pool and enjoy direct access to tennis courts and hiking trails, including Airport Mesa.
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6. New Orleans, Louisiana
We know, “The Big Easy” doesn’t sound particularly romantic. But how about an unrivaled food and cocktail culture? Or vibrant nightlife, one of the best music scenes in the entire world, iconic architecture, or a city history that may or may not be just a bit haunted? Now that all sounds like the perfect recipe for a romantic getaway. It’s nearly impossible to not feel sparks flying as you and your sweetheart walk hand-in-hand through the French Quarter, sipping cocktails and stopping to watch street performers.
Fun fact: it’s perfectly legal – encouraged, even – to walk around with alcoholic beverages in NOLA. Book a swamp tour or steamboat cruise for a thoroughly romantic outing, New Orleans-style, and commit to ignoring calories during your time here. Every single one is worth it.
Where to stay: If you’re looking for an authentically New Orleans hotel for your romantic getaway, look no further than Hotel Peter and Paul. The converted Marigny hotel was once a church and school, and today resides in four separate buildings. No two rooms are alike, but all have romantic touches including canopy beds, antique furniture, and claw-foot tubs. When you want to venture out, walk to Frenchmen Street, where you’ll find a string of legendary live music venues.
7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole is one of the most naturally beautiful places on Earth, which is reason enough to call it an ideal romantic getaway. But it also has lots – lots – more to offer beyond the scenery. Grand Teton National Park, home to the iconic Teton mountain range, is just north of Jackson Hole. Here, you’ll find endless opportunities for hiking, rafting, and fishing.
In fact, the Snake River, which runs through the park, boasts some of the world’s best cutthroat trout fishing. If you’re visiting in the winter or spring, you’ll also be able to enjoy legendary skiing and snowboarding.
Want to indulge in more relaxing and less doing on your romantic getaway? Downtown Jackson Hole is lined with tons of adorable shops, galleries, restaurants, cafes, and bars. And if you can add a day or two to your itinerary, take an easy day trip to Yellowstone National Park.
Where to stay: Although reservations are difficult to get, there is no more romantic hotel in Jackson Hole than Jenny Lake Lodge. Located within the national park, some of the most coveted views and hiking trails are just outside the door. There are no TVs, encouraging couples to connect over horseback riding or bike rides, and there’s almost always a fire roaring and live music in the lobby.
8. Big Sur, California
Home to some of the most photographed, iconic coastline in all of California, Big Sur is absolutely dreamy. Located smack-dab in the middle of the state and just south of Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea (two equally romantic destinations), it’s easy to visit Big Sur regardless of where you’re traveling from. And bonus, it’s set along the most picturesque stretch of Highway 1, aka the Pacific Coast Highway, making Big Sur enjoyable even as a quick trip.
During your romantic getaway to Big Sur, you’ll want to spend plenty of time on the coast. Look for hidden tide pools and waterfalls, comb the beaches for sand dollars, and watch the surfers or hop on a board yourself. Be sure your phone or camera batteries are fully charged because you’re going to take a lot of pictures.
Where to stay: Check into Glen Oaks Big Sur for a romantic and truly memorable stay. Choose from four different types of accommodations, all set in a stunning redwood tree grove. Many rooms have private fire pits and outdoor soaking tubs, and guests all enjoy complimentary glasses of wine.
9. Kennebunkport, Maine
Maine as a whole is the epitome of a romantic getaway. Between the rocky, rugged coastline, picturesque beaches, historic lighthouses, quaint towns with boutiques and galleries, and a dizzying number of excellent restaurants (ahem, Maine lobster), you really can’t go wrong.
Kennebunkport, in particular, embodies all of Maine’s best romantic qualities in one small, postcard-perfect town. Nothing feels industrialized – because, well, it isn’t – plus there are plenty of opportunities to bond as a couple over outdoor recreation, and life moves at an enviable slow pace here.
Oh, and you’ll also find some of the best food in the state in Kennebunkport. Don’t miss getting a lobster roll from The Clam Shack and a slice of famous blueberry pie from Allison’s.
Where to stay: The White Barn Inn & Spa is classically Maine, both luxurious and laid-back (“coastal luxury,” they call it). The 150-plus-year-old inn has a phenomenal restaurant onsite, unbeatable coastal views, and elevated experiences. Try cooking alongside the chef, shadowing a Maine lobsterman, or cycling up the coast.
10. Maui, Hawaii
Known affectionately as the “Honeymoon Island,” Maui is perhaps one of the most romantic getaways anywhere in the world. To begin with, there are incredible beaches. Maui has more than 30 miles of pristine beaches, and each one is a little different.
There are white sand beaches, black sand beaches, red sand beaches, beaches for adults only, family-friendly beaches, and even clothing-optional beaches. To put it mildly, you can’t do much better than Maui if it’s beaches you seek.
If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, Maui has you covered there, too. Go snorkeling, try surfing or paddleboarding, book a fishing charter, or go whale-watching if you’re there in the winter months. Rent a Jeep and drive the storied Road to Hana, or get up before the sun and catch the sunrise at Haleakala, an enormous shield volcano. Maui also has plenty of hiking trails, including many that take you to waterfalls.
Where to stay: To experience authentic Maui (and enjoy a much more intimate, romantic getaway), head away from the crowded touristy areas and book yourselves into the Hana-Maui Resort. Perched on the eastern end of the island along the Road to Hana, this resort is secluded and exudes “old Hawaii” charm, but with plenty of luxurious amenities.
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