Last Minute Weekend Getaways & Cheap Vacations

Location:

East Coast

Highlights:

Need a spontaneous weekend escape? Whether you're near NYC or Washington, D.C., the East Coast is packed with last-minute getaway gems—think charming inns, scenic trails, beach towns, and cozy mountain retreats perfect for couples or families.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, solo travelers, and last-minute planners looking for quick, easy escapes without the stress of long travel.

What We Love:

The variety—from romantic mountain inns and beach boardwalks to historic towns and national parks—all within a short drive or flight.

• From NYC: Take a quick trip to the Catskills or Hudson Valley for nature, hiking, and charming inns. Or explore beachy escapes like Montauk and the historic charm of Newport, RI.
• From Washington, D.C.: Enjoy affordable weekend getaways to Charlottesville, the Chesapeake Bay, Shenandoah National Park, or scenic drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• All Along the East Coast: Discover relaxing retreats in Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Vermont—ideal for cozy inns, leaf-peeping, and small-town charm.
• For a Three-Day Weekend: Book a quick flight to Florida’s beaches for sunshine and surf, or visit scenic North Carolina state parks and the beautiful South Carolina coastline.

Location:

West Coast

Highlights:

Need a last-minute escape on the West Coast? Whether you're road-tripping with the family or planning a spontaneous romantic getaway, California, Oregon, and Washington offer beach towns, wine country charm, coastal drives, and mountain escapes to fit any vibe—or budget.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, road-trippers, and West Coast locals looking for weekend escapes packed with beauty, relaxation, and easy access to nature and culture.

What We Love:

Ocean views, wine tastings, charming coastal villages, and a range of options from luxurious inns to affordable road trip stops.

• Romantic or Family Getaways: The West Coast is rich with quick, scenic escapes ideal for couples or families—think coastal road trips, mountain retreats, or relaxing wine country stays.
• California Deals: Find last-minute deals in coastal favorites like Monterey, artsy Cambria, upscale Carmel, and the vineyard-lined beauty of Napa Valley—all great for romantic weekends or laid-back road trips.
• Oregon Escapes: Oregon offers cheap and scenic options like Eugene for nature and culture, Seaside for beach fun, and Astoria for historic, coastal charm.
• Washington Adventures: Discover Washington State gems like its scenic islands, cozy wine regions, and national parks—perfect for couples or families craving nature, fresh air, and fewer crowds.

Location:

Midwest

Highlights:

Whether you're craving a weekend of nature, culture, or family fun, the Midwest is full of affordable, last-minute escape options. From lakeside retreats and bed-and-breakfasts to city breaks packed with museums and history, you’ll find something just right for your pace.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, culture seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for charming Midwest stays without long planning or travel.

What We Love:

The diversity—big-city art scenes, romantic hideaways, nature-packed retreats, and waterparks that keep kids smiling all weekend long.

• Mix It Up: The Midwest offers everything from vibrant cities to quiet natural escapes—perfect for families or romantic weekends on the fly.
• Explore Culture: Check out Milwaukee, Cleveland, Madison, or Wichita for art museums, historic sites, and cultural tours.
• Retreat to Nature: Book a lakeside hotel in Michigan or a romantic bed and breakfast in Indiana for peaceful surroundings, friendly service, and outdoor charm.
• Plan for Family Fun: Wisconsin Dells is packed with waterparks, attractions, and affordable adventures for families with kids.
• Find Romance: Couples can enjoy scenic waterfalls or discover storybook castles in Ohio for a unique and romantic getaway.
• Look for Deals: Many last-minute packages include room specials, complimentary massages, or dining credits—perfect for elevating your trip on a budget.

Location:

Southern USA & Select Southwest/Hawaii Destinations

Highlights:

From soulful music and rich history to tropical escapes and Southwest romance, the South has something for every kind of last-minute traveler. Whether you’re craving culture, cuisine, castles, or coastlines, it’s all just a quick trip away.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, families, history lovers, music fans, and spontaneous travelers seeking a warm, welcoming getaway filled with unique experiences.

What We Love:

Historic towns, vibrant music scenes, lakeside beauty, national parks, Southern food, and even the occasional fairy-tale castle—plus the surprise thrill of scoring a last-minute Hawaii deal!

• Embrace the South: Expect warm hospitality, rich history, and incredible food across the South—from small towns to bustling cultural hubs.
• Hands-On History: Explore immersive attractions in Mississippi, South Carolina, West Virginia, and Tennessee. Don’t miss scenic lakes, fascinating wildlife, national parks, and even some of the most beautiful castles in the U.S.
• Play All Day: Cool off at water parks in Alabama, tap your toes in Nashville and New Orleans, or learn about horse racing heritage in Kentucky.
• Romantic Southwest: Enjoy a weekend filled with golf, shopping, art, and desert landscapes in the Southwest—ideal for couples in need of a last-minute romantic reset.
• Hawaii on a Whim: Snagging a last-minute flight to Oahu, Kauai, or the Big Island? It's not as far-fetched as it sounds—keep an eye out for flash sales and low-fare alerts for that dream island escape.

Last Minute Family-friendly Getaways:

Location:

Major U.S. Cities

Highlights:

Looking for a quick family getaway without the long planning? From New York to Las Vegas, U.S. cities are packed with kid-friendly attractions, delicious food, and entertainment for every age—making them perfect for spontaneous escapes.

We Recommend This For:

Families with kids of all ages, city explorers, culture seekers, and parents looking to combine fun with learning and memorable moments.

What We Love:

Dinosaur museums, city parks, scenic photo spots, and evenings filled with musicals, concerts, or cozy dinners together in a new city neighborhood.

• Visit small towns or major cities like New York, LA, Indianapolis, Dallas, Las Vegas, or Boston for last-minute vacation fun with plenty to see and do for the whole family.
• Entertain the kids with a trip to a natural history museum where they can explore dinosaur exhibits and catch a planetarium show that sparks curiosity.
• Explore local parks and green spaces, or dive into each city's rich mix of cultural, historical, and musical attractions.
• Capture the moment at a scenic spot perfect for a family photo (Christmas card, anyone?)—then try something new at a nearby local eatery.
• Unwind in the evening with a family-friendly musical, opera, concert, or theater show after dinner in a fun new neighborhood.
• Book Smart: Many cities offer last-minute family vacation packages with hotel deals, bundled attraction tickets, and kid-friendly perks.

Location:

Jacksonville, FL

Highlights:

Planning a last-minute escape with your partner? Jacksonville delivers big on charm, beachside beauty, and romantic adventures—all without breaking the bank.

We Recommend This For:

Couples looking for a spontaneous, affordable coastal getaway filled with art, nature, and local flavor.

What We Love:

Tree-lined trails, free tastings, romantic riverfront sunsets, and 22 miles of white-sand beaches made for reconnecting.

• Save with budget-friendly experiences like biking 14 miles of the shaded Baldwin Trail or taking a complimentary Budweiser Brewery tour and tasting.
• Relax at a free outdoor summer movie night at the Sea Walk Pavilion, a local favorite for casual coastal evenings.
• Stroll hand-in-hand along 22 miles of white-sand beaches, perfect for catching sunrises, sunsets, or just quiet moments by the ocean.
• Explore the historic and artsy San Marco Square, with chic boutiques, galleries, and romantic performances at Theatre Jacksonville.
• Watch the day wind down at Riverfront Park, an ideal sunset spot for couples who love views and quiet reflection.

Location:

Palm Springs, CA

Highlights:

If your idea of romance includes sunshine, design, and a splash of Hollywood glamour, Palm Springs delivers in style. From mid-century architecture to desert adventures and alfresco dining, it’s a dreamy couples' escape with flair.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, architecture buffs, foodies, and adventure-loving duos looking for a spontaneous, sunshine-soaked getaway with plenty to explore.

What We Love:

Scenic desert hikes, scooter tours through the Coachella Valley, open-air dinners in the Design District, and the magic of running into a film fest or music event on a whim.

• Relax and reconnect in the desert’s embrace—Palm Springs is a romantic playground with a laid-back vibe and rich Hollywood legacy.
• Tour the city in unique ways, from mid-century architecture walks and the Palm Springs Walk of Stars to a fun ride on Social Cycle’s 16-passenger touring bike or a scooter adventure through the Coachella Valley.
• Explore nearby gems like Joshua Tree National Park or the quaint mountain town of Idyllwild—both perfect for scenic hiking and stargazing.
• Indulge in upscale dining with patio views and spend an afternoon browsing Palm Springs’ stylish Uptown Design District.
• Celebrate with lucky timing—your trip may coincide with the Palm Springs International Film Festival or the legendary Coachella Valley Music Festival.

Last Minute Romantic Getaways:

Location:

Columbia, MO

Highlights:

For couples looking for a spontaneous getaway with a mix of flavor, music, and outdoor adventure, Columbia offers a fun, energetic vibe. This vibrant college town is full of local charm, green spaces, and plenty of ways to connect over food, music, and nature.

We Recommend This For:

Younger couples, foodie travelers, outdoorsy duos, and anyone seeking a low-key, culture-filled weekend escape in the Midwest.

What We Love:

Casual charm, live music on Ninth Street, cozy garden strolls, and impromptu food tours that make it easy to eat your way through town.

• Kick things off with a local food tour to sample Columbia’s rich foodie scene—perfect for getting a taste of the town on day one.
• Wander the Ninth Street Historic District where trendy boutiques, local restaurants, and live music at The Blue Note make for a lively afternoon or night out.
• Explore Rock Bridge Memorial State Park for hiking, biking, or scrambling through cave-like rock formations on a whim.
• Slow down with a peaceful stroll through Shelter Gardens, or catch a charming outdoor summer concert if your timing’s right.

Location:

Greenville, SC

Highlights:

Greenville is a hidden gem for couples looking to mix nature, history, flavor, and fun all in one weekend. From sunset cruises and chef’s tables to dueling pianos and comedy dinners, it’s a place where great memories are made at every turn.

We Recommend This For:

Couples who love a balance of outdoor adventures, culinary experiences, local history, and lively nights out on the town.

What We Love:

Sunset lake cruises, chef-led food tours, architecture walks, and unforgettable nights filled with music and laughter in this vibrant Southern city.

• Explore Greenville with culinary tours that showcase everything from breakfast tastings to barbecue samplers and chef’s table experiences.
• Step back in time on a downtown history tour, West End walking tour, or a neighborhood architecture stroll that dives into the city’s textile-era roots.
• Unplug in nature with a wilderness tour of Jocassee Gorge, a Saturday sunset cruise on Lake Jocassee, or a waterfall and wild river adventure ideal for active couples.
• Laugh and sing your way through the night with dueling pianos at Jack n’ Diane’s or a hilarious comedy dinner show at Café and Then Some.

Address:

Greenville, SC
For more information, visit: visitgreenvillesc.com

Location:

Cincinnati, OH

Highlights:

Sitting on the scenic banks of the Ohio River, Cincinnati blends rolling hills, river views, and cultural gems into one dynamic and affordable getaway. It’s the perfect place for couples who love nature, history, and a touch of the unexpected.

We Recommend This For:

Couples, nature lovers, quirky museum enthusiasts, and last-minute travelers seeking a blend of charm, scenery, and memorable experiences.

What We Love:

Observatory sunsets, strolls through botanical gardens, unique finds like the Mushroom House, and quiet moments in preserved woodlands—plus great travel deals that make it all super accessible.

• Discover Cincinnati, a riverfront city where Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana come together, offering a rich mix of landscapes and local flavor.
• Soak up rolling hills, city views, and riverfront scenery perfect for leisurely drives or romantic photo ops.
• Visit the Cincinnati Observatory for celestial sights and history, or stroll hand-in-hand through the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.
• Get quirky with offbeat stops like the Mushroom House and the American Sign Museum—unforgettable and totally unique to Cincy.
• Explore nature together at California Woods Nature Preserve or the Caldwell Nature Center for peaceful trails and wildlife sightings.
• Book smart: Snag last-minute Cincinnati vacation deals via Apple Vacations, Hotwire, and other major booking sites.