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Weekend Getaways

Whether you’re dreaming of mountain cabins, beach towns, wine country escapes, or cozy inns tucked just outside the city, these posts gather the weekend getaways that remind me how good it feels to go, if only for a little while.

Weekend Ideas

Last Minute Weekend Getaways (my favorite cheap vacations!)

From quick city escapes to budget-friendly beaches, there are plenty of options that prove the best vacations don’t have to cost a fortune.

I took this sunset photo on my weekend getaway to the beach from San Diego

Weekend Getaways from San Diego

Weekend getaways from San Diego are some of the most unique and fun escapes in Southern California, and honestly, they’ve become some of my favorite ways to recharge while still staying close to the coast.

My photo of a pink-red sunset on the coast near LA

10 Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles

Los Angeles is surrounded by some of the best weekend getaways in California, and it’s become one of my favorite places to start an adventure.

I took this photo of blossoms on a weekend getaway from NYC

Weekend Getaways from NYC (that I adored)

After a whirlwind week in the Big Apple, for me one of the most enjoyable parts is picking a cozy inn, chic boutique hotel, or a countryside retreat to spend a relaxing 48 hours.

My photo of spring blooms on our romantic weekend in CT

Romantic Weekend Getaways in Connecticut

Connecticut’s romantic escapes are some of the best in New England. You get to discover unique destinations, make new favorite memories, and explore hidden gems that keep me coming back.

I took this photo of leaves turning red and golden in the fall in Vermont

Weekend Getaways in Vermont (that were just wow!)

For me, Vermont’s weekend escapes are some of the best in New England. I love the unique towns, favorite traditions, and underrated gems that always feel worth the journey.

I took this photo of my cottage at the all inclusive Hana-Maui Resort in Hawaii

All Inclusive Resorts in the United States

I think that all-inclusive resorts in the United States are some of the best options for travelers because they combine convenience, unique settings, and unforgettable memories—all without leaving the country.

Weekend Getaways from San Francisco

For me, weekend getaways from San Francisco are about finding unique places that combine relaxation, the best adventure, and unforgettable scenery.

My photo of mountain views on our weekend getaway

Weekend Getaways in Colorado

Colorado weekend getaways have meant discovering unique towns, hidden trails, and favorite experiences that are rejuvenating and inspiring.

I took this photo of sunflowers in Kansas

Things to Do in Kansas

Kansas often surprises you in the best way. It’s not just one big open stretch of road, it’s a patchwork of small towns, college cities, prairie trails, and cowboy history.

This photo I took of a pink sunset with a palm tree on a windy evening is one of my favorites.

7 Best Florida Weekend Getaways

I love how Florida feels underrated beyond the big-name theme parks. For me, weekend getaways here always reveal hidden gems worth exploring. This is exactly why I decided to share my favorite Florida escapes so that you can use my guide as an inspiration to plan your own vacation.

I took this photo of brilliant yellow hues on my weekend trip from Minneapolis

Weekend Getaways from Minneapolis, Minnesota

I love how these trips offer the best mix of cozy small towns, outdoor adventures, and lakeside relaxation. You can go from the buzz of Minneapolis to a peaceful retreat in just a couple of hours, which makes every weekend feel like a mini-vacation.

I took this photo of an ancient fort while traveling with my girlfriends

Girls Weekend Getaways (that I adored!)

From lively cities to quiet retreats, these escapes bring the best mix of fun, relaxation, and bonding, often in unique spots that feel wonderfully underrated.

I discovered this lush hidden waterfall while hiking in the Texas Hill Country

Weekend Getaways in Texas

Texas is filled with some of the best weekend getaways in the USA, and it’s one of my favorite states for variety and adventure.

I took this photo on the beach in NC of my son playing in the sand

Weekend Getaways in North Carolina

Weekend getaways in North Carolina are some of the most unique and refreshing escapes in the South. Whether you’re craving outdoor adventure, coastal relaxation, or historic downtowns, North Carolina offers some of the best options for a quick trip.

Weekend Getaways from Seattle (that were just wow!)

These are the hotels, resorts and inns near Seattle that made my weekends extra special. They’re about finding unique destinations that balance adventure, relaxation, and the perfect connection to nature.

My photo of spring fruit on a farm during my Easter vacation

Easter Weekend Getaways

For me, Easter weekend getaways are some of the best trips of the year because they combine spring energy, family traditions, and unforgettable travel experiences that always feel like a fresh start.

My photo of a lovely park on my Mother's Day trip in May

Mother’s Day Weekend Getaways

Spend time next to the pool, get massages at the spa, go shopping or play a round a golf to say thank you on Mother's Day.

Fall Travel Skincare Favorites

Wondering what skincare items to pack for fall travel? I break it down in this video.

Hi, Welcome to VacationIdea.com! I'm Ema. While my home is in Texas, I've lived in many different places months at a time researching vacations. On this page, I share fresh, dreamy vacation ideas. I love to chase unique things to do near me and revisit old favorites for a cool, fresh perspective. I'm also eager to learn from my fellow travelers to see what works for people and what doesn't. Whether you like great sunsets, hidden gems, places of mystery, famous attractions, or underrated experiences, here you'll find all of those recommendations from locals that won me over. Let's explore together! Click here to find my Youtube channel @VacationIdea. I'm not associated with any other YouTube channels, networks or marketing companies (especially those using the terms "vacation ideas", "vacation idea", "dream travel", "dream vacation", etc). Ema Kisel has received many awards and media mentions, including: abc6 Morning Show, UMich, 7News, WA State Department, and many others.