Last Minute Romantic Getaways
I found that last-minute romantic getaways are the perfect solution when you want to escape with your partner without too much planning. They’re all about spontaneity, convenience, and finding those hidden gems where love and relaxation come naturally. Whether it’s a quick drive, a short flight, or even a staycation in your own city, what makes these trips so appealing is their simplicity. You can create unforgettable memories without the stress of a long itinerary.
The fun is in the surprise. From snagging a last-minute deal on a luxury hotel to discovering a romantic bed-and-breakfast just a short drive away. Here are some of the most unique last-minute getaways I came across that I think you’ll love for your next spontaneous adventure.
1. Florence, Oregon
I thought Florence was enchanting with its colorful Old Town storefronts, flower-filled boardwalk, and the graceful Art Deco arches of the Siuslaw River Bridge rising above the marina. The town felt rooted in its seafaring past yet embraced by windswept coastal beauty.
A scenic 25-minute drive north along Highway 101 from the Oregon Dunes brought me into the heart of Old Town, where I strolled past galleries, antique shops, and cafes tucked into historic wooden buildings overlooking the river.
I spent the afternoon browsing quirky boutiques for nautical keepsakes, savoring a steaming bowl of chowder at Mo’s, gazing at fishing boats silhouetted against a golden sunset, and then staying two blissful nights at the River House Inn with a balcony right over the Siuslaw. It was a wonderfully cozy place, though I found the dining and lodging prices a little higher than other small coastal towns in Oregon.
- Drive Time from Eugene: ~1.5 hours west
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through early fall for milder weather
2. Greenville, South Carolina
I found Greenville to be wonderfully inviting, with its leafy Main Street shaded by oaks and maples, red-brick sidewalks strung with twinkle lights, and the striking Liberty Bridge arching gracefully above the waterfalls of the Reedy River. The city struck me as both charmingly walkable and quietly sophisticated, a Southern destination with an energetic, modern flair wrapped in small-town warmth.
A scenic 25-minute drive from the rolling foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains brought me right into the heart of downtown, where fountains and public art brightened the street corners and cafés spilled onto the sidewalks. I spent the afternoon browsing boutiques and art galleries, treating myself to handmade chocolates at Mast General Store, admiring the falls from the gardens of Falls Park on the Reedy, and then staying two blissful nights at the historic Westin Poinsett, a beautifully restored 1920s hotel. It was an elegant base, though I found that dining and boutique shopping here were priced a little higher than in smaller Southern towns.
- Drive Time from Atlanta: ~2.5 hours northeast
- Best Time to Visit: March to May or September to November for perfect walking weather
3. Livingston, Montana
I was instantly captivated by the way Livingston, Montana blends rugged Western spirit with artistic charm. Surrounded by the Absaroka Mountains and just a short drive from Yellowstone, I loved how every view felt like it belonged on a postcard.
A scenic 25-minute drive east along I-90 from Bozeman brought me to downtown Livingston, where century-old buildings stand proudly along Main Street, many restored into galleries, bookstores, and cafés while still retaining their Wild West bones. I spent the afternoon browsing local art in the Danforth, sipping coffee at a historic corner café, gazing at the river and mountains from Sacajawea Park, and then staying two peaceful nights at the Murray Hotel, a landmark 1904 property with vintage Western charm.
- Drive Time from Bozeman: ~30 minutes east
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for clear skies and open trails
4. San Francisco
I always feel an instant rush of excitement when I arrive in San Francisco. The city’s energy, steep hills, and iconic skyline make me feel like I’ve stepped into a place that’s constantly alive with possibility.
We began our morning with Plow in Potrero Hill. I ordered the lemon ricotta pancakes, fluffy, golden, tasting like warm sunshine with a touch of zest. The scent of fresh coffee drifted from the next table, and I felt time slow down. We based ourselves at Fairmont San Francisco for four nights.
From there, we walked up to the Randall Museum, a hilltop gem full of hands-on exhibits, live animals, and sweeping city views. We wandered through geology displays and stood quietly in front of the beehive, watching a whole world work behind glass.
We strolled around Valencia, window-shopped, then ducked into StarBelly for a midday pause. Their flatbread was crisp and salty with fig and goat cheese, sweet and sharp at once. Nearby, Super Duper Burgers pulled us in with the smell of grilled beef and garlic fries. We split one burger and two laughs, sitting by the window watching Mission life drift by.
Dinner that night was Kusakabe, where each piece of nigiri felt like a ceremony. The fish was clean, cool, with rice still warm, each flavor unfolding like a quiet story. Next day, we followed the tip of a friend and joined a Emperor Norton’s Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine tour.
That evening, we ended at Raven Bar, its red glow and old-Hollywood film clips playing across the walls. And before heading home, we made one last stop: Delarosa, for late-night Roman pizza and fried artichokes under strings of light that made the city feel like a warm secret.
I think what makes San Francisco so unique is how it combines natural beauty with urban charm. Whether I’m standing on Twin Peaks looking down at the city lights or sipping coffee in a cozy café, I always feel like San Francisco has something unforgettable waiting for me.
- Best For: Couples who love city energy with sudden quiet corners
- Vibe: Unexpected elegance, coastal cool, storybook oddities
5. San Marcos, California
I found San Marcos to be warmly appealing, with golden hills rolling into valleys, lakeside trails curving past sparkling water, and a relaxed Southern California spirit that blended suburban ease with outdoor adventure. The town felt welcoming and sun-soaked, a place where mountain views and palm trees frame everyday life.
A scenic 25-minute drive inland from the Pacific coast at Carlsbad brought me to the heart of San Marcos, where modern plazas mixed with family-owned eateries and parks full of walkers, joggers, and students from nearby Cal State San Marcos. I spent the afternoon hiking along the quiet trails at Double Peak Park, browsing local shops in Old California Restaurant Row, enjoying a casual but delicious taco dinner at a neighborhood spot, and then staying two restful nights at the Lakehouse Hotel & Resort on nearby Lake San Marcos. It was a serene stay, though I found that lakeside lodging and dining here can be priced a bit higher than other inland towns in the region.
- Drive Time from San Diego: ~40 minutes north
- Best Time to Visit: March to June for wildflowers and mild sun
6. Benton Harbor, Michigan
Benton Harbor was quietly intriguing, with its industrial roots giving way to an emerging arts scene, revitalized streets, and the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan just next door in St. Joseph. The city felt authentic and evolving, a place where creativity and community spirit are breathing new life into a historic lakeshore town.
A scenic 25-minute drive north along I-94 from New Buffalo brought me into the Arts District of downtown Benton Harbor, where galleries, studios, and cafés now occupy once-forgotten warehouses. I spent the afternoon exploring local art at the ARS Gallery, enjoying coffee and conversation at The Mason Jar, wandering past murals brightening brick walls, and then staying two nights at The Inn at Harbor Shores — a modern resort overlooking the marina and just a short walk to the beach.
- Drive Time from Chicago: ~2 hours northeast
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for markets, swimming, and patio meals
7. Manhattan
When we started talking about a last minute romantic getaway, Manhattan was the first place that came to mind. Having lived there for 10 years before moving to Austin, I knew how much the city’s energy could blend with quiet, intimate moments, making it the best destination for two.
We wandered through Central Park, holding hands under the canopy of trees, and it felt like we had discovered a hidden world inside the city. It was amazing to escape the traffic and noise and just listen to the soft rustle of leaves.
Our stay at Sheraton New York Times Square Hotel for tree nights gave us easy access to everything, yet we found ourselves sneaking away to smaller neighborhoods where we stumbled upon a gem of a wine bar.
At night, we took in skyline views from a rooftop lounge. I couldn’t believe how joyful it felt to sip cocktails while gazing at the Empire State Building lit up against the dark sky. It was pure magic.
We also explored the West Village, where charming streets led us to cozy restaurants. Every corner seemed like an exciting discovery, and we found ourselves laughing over late-night desserts and coffee like it was our first date all over again.
What surprised me most was how Manhattan can feel both thrilling and intimate at the same time. Even though Austin is home now, savoring each moment together in a city I once called home made this weekend an absolute best romantic escape.
8. Baraboo, Wisconsin
On our weekend getaway to Baraboo, I was amazed by how much natural beauty and history this small town holds. Nestled among rolling hills and bluffs, I loved how it felt both peaceful and adventurous at the same time.
One of my favorite experiences was exploring Devil’s Lake State Park. Hiking the trails and looking out over the sparkling lake from the quartzite bluffs gave me some of the best views I’ve ever seen in the Midwest—it was breathtaking and unforgettable.
A scenic 25-minute drive south along US-12 from Wisconsin Dells brought me into downtown Baraboo, where Victorian-era buildings line the courthouse square, many now home to antique shops, cafés, and boutiques. I spent the afternoon browsing local treasures at the square’s small shops, enjoying homemade ice cream at a family-run parlor, learning about the Ringling Brothers’ legacy at the Circus World Museum, and then staying two nights at the historic Ringling House Bed & Breakfast.
- Drive Time from Madison: ~1 hour north
- Best Time to Visit: September through October for fall colors and crisp trails
9. Pueblo, Colorado
I always feel a sense of authenticity when I visit Pueblo, Colorado. The city has such a rich cultural identity, and I love how it blends history, art, and food into a welcoming atmosphere that feels alive with local pride.
I usually start my time at the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk, where I can stroll along the water, enjoy the sculptures, and even take a boat ride. It’s not only relaxing, but it also gives me a glimpse of how Pueblo celebrates its community spirit.
A scenic 25-minute drive south along I-25 from Colorado Springs brought me into the heart of Pueblo, where the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk has transformed the downtown into a lively gathering place of cafés, art installations, and shaded walkways beside the water. I spent the afternoon exploring galleries in the Union Avenue Historic District, savoring Pueblo’s famous green chile at a family-run restaurant, strolling along the Riverwalk at sunset, and then staying two restful nights at the Courtyard by Marriott Pueblo Downtown. It was a delightful stay.
- Drive Time from Colorado Springs: ~45 minutes south
- Best Time to Visit: September to early November for harvest season and cooler nights
Conclusion
We didn’t circle dates or wait for perfect weather. We just picked a place, packed light, and left. What we found were towns that welcomed us with open windows and quiet streets, places where conversation stretched out and time bent softly around us.
Each of these getaways reminded me that romance isn’t always in the planning. It’s in a lakeside bench, a shared dessert, a hand held on a trail that wasn’t even on the map. Sometimes, all it takes is a little space, a little distance, and the decision to go, together.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
