31 Last Minute Weekend Getaways & Cheap Vacations

Many vacationers decide to plan their trip last minute and there is a great selection of destinations and cheap weekend getaways and vacation ideas to choose from. Look for getaway deals nearby to save time and money - last minute travel is one of the best ways to get a great deal. Although last minute booking can mean less choice in the type of accommodations and activities, it can be a great way to book cheap vacations. Photo: juancat/Fotolia

East Coast travelers have many exciting choices when planning a last minute weekend getaway. If you live in the NYC area, quick trips include romantic inns, family beach spots, fun activities, affordable ideas with kids, and historical attractions. Visit the Catskills, Hudson Valley, Montauk, Newport and more on your last minute vacation. If you live in the Washington, D.C. area and are looking for cheap last minute weekend getaways for couples, weekend getaways and day trips include Charlottesville, Chesapeake Bay, Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Parkway, and many important historical sights. Other fun last minute travel weekend destinations on the East Coast include Rhode Island, Connecticut, Vermont, Maine and Massachusetts. You may also like to browse getaway deals and day trips from Boston, from Philadelphia and other cities. Head to Florida, famous for its sandy beaches and warm weather, visit the parks in North Carolina and enjoy the beaches of South Carolina. Photo: Jorg Hackemann/Fotolia

Whether you are looking for last minute romantic getaways or family road trip ideas, there is an abundance of options on the West Coast of the United States. Top California destinations where you will find last minute travel deals and cheap romantic getaways include Monterey, Cambria, Carmel and Napa Valley.

The state of Oregon, offering many cheap vacations, is home to beautiful beaches and unique towns and cities, including Eugene, Seaside, Astoria, and other romantic spots. For more last minute travel deals and getaways near me, look at Washington State which is well known for its islands, wineries and pristine nature. Photo: Iriana Shiyan/Fotolia

Midwest offers a selection of destinations and cheap vacation spots for families and couples looking for last minute getaways, including large cities, secluded island spots and quiet places for outdoor lovers. Visit Milwaukee, Cleveland, Madison, Bloomington or Wichita if you are interested in art museums, historical sites and cultural tours. Head to a country inn or a bed and breakfast if you are interested in relaxing surrounded by nature and friendly service on your weekend getaways. Families with kids will find waterparks and affordable fun adventures in Wisconsin Dells while couples can look for romantic castles and scenic waterfalls in Ohio. Last minute travel deals usually include room specials, unique amenities like free massages, or free dining credit. More last minute getaways: more last minute vacation deals, long weekend getaways and Best Day Trips from Chicago Photo: soupstock/Fotolia

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Experience warm hospitality, history, great food and an array of things to do in the South, USA. Learn about history hands-on by exploring the attractions in Mississippi, South Carolina, West Virginia, Tennessee, Louisiana, Virginia and Texas. See beautiful lakes, fascinating castles, unique wildlife and national parks. Visit water parks in Alabama, listen to incredible music in Nashville and New Orleans, and learn about horse racing in Kentucky on your last minute vacation.

Plan a romantic trip to the Southwest, whether you enjoy golf, shopping or art on your weekend trips. Sometimes you can find great last minute deals on flights to Hawaii, letting you experience magical Maui, Oahu, Kauai or the Big Island at a fraction of the coast. Keep reading for more getaways near me. Photo: Melpomene/Fotolia

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Getting away to a major city like New York, LA, Indianapolis, Dallas, Las Vegas or Boston can mean plenty of fun for the whole family. Kids can have fun at a natural history museum exploring dinosaur exhibits and watching a planetarium show. There is also plenty of great food, historical and cultural attractions, music and outdoor playtime in the city parks. On a sunny day, take the whole family to scenic spot and take that perfect Christmas card photo, followed by a lunch at one of the local eateries tasting new cuisine. In the evening, see a famous musical, opera, concert or a theatre performance after a fun family dinner. Keep reading for more fun weekend getaways and last minute vacation packages. Photo: jorisvo/Fotolia

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Couples booking a last minute trip to the Boldest City in the South, will find it was a wise and affordable choice. There is plenty to do on a budget, including biking 14 miles of the relaxing, tree canopied Baldwin Trail, taking a complimentary Budwieser Brewery tour and tasting, and catching a free outdoor summer movie at Sea Walk Pavilion. Lovers can amp up the romance with a beachside stroll anywhere along the 22 miles of white-sand beaches. Historic San Marco Square offers couples trendy art galleries and chic clothing boutiques, the oldest community theater in the U.S. at Theatre Jacksonville, and Riverfront Park for romantic sunsets. This is also the place for an incredible urban dining experience. Find Things to Do in Jacksonville or keep reading for more cheap weekend getaways. Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

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Palm Springs is the perfect destination for couples whose idea of relaxation and romance is doing fun things together. It’s the ultimate desert getaway with a Hollywood legacy. Tours include everything from Palm Springs architecture to the Palm Springs Walk of Stars, Social Cycles’s 16-passenger touring bike, and aself-guided scooter exploration of Palm Springs and Coachella Valley.Adventurous types can explore the surrounding mountains and desert with eco-friendly highlights like Idyllwild and Joshua Tree. Palm Springs has an upscale culinary scene where dining alfresco is the norm, and an uptown Design District that begs exploration. Lucky last minute getaways could coincide with Palm Springs International Film Festival or Coachella Valley Music Festival. Keep reading for more inexpensive vacations and cheap weekend getaways for couples. Things to Do in Palm Springs Photo: Byron Moore/Fotolia

Columbia, Missouri, is a vibrant college town with an energetic vibe. Couples on a last minute getaway can quickly familiarize themselves with the foodie scene on a Columbia Culinary Tour. The Ninth Street Historic District provides young, or young-at-heart couples plenty of entertainment, including trendy clothing stores, restaurants, and coffee shops on The Strollway, and local live music at The Blue Note.Outdoorsy couples can do some impromptu exploration at popular Rock Bridge Memorial State Park where there are opportunities to scramble, hike, and bike. Shelter Gardens provides a more formal outdoor experience where couples can stroll the gardens, or if they’re lucky, catch an outdoor summer concert. Keep reading for more cheap vacations, last minute vacation packages and weekend getaways for couples near me. Things to Do in Columbia Photo: Henryk Sadura/Fotolia

Couples will never run out of memory-making activities in Greenville, South Carolina. The city’s signature tours include culinary tours featuring breakfast, barbecue, and chef’s table experiences. History tours cover the best of the city on a downtown history tour that explores the textile industry, a West End walking tour that examines the city’s roots, and a historic neighborhood and architecture tour. Nature tours explore the wilderness of Jocassee Gorge, Lake, and waterfalls, a Saturday sunset cruise on Jocassee Lake, and an adventure tour of Lake Jocassee’s wild rivers, swimming holes, and waterfalls. Other impromptu must-do activities include exploring nights outsuggestions like dueling pianos at Jack n’ Diane’s, or comedy dinner theater at Café and Then Some. Find Things to Do in Greenville or continue reading for more cheap weekend getaways for couples. Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

Cincinnati resides on the banks of the Ohio River, a vibrant region that stretches over areas in three states, Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. It features rolling hills, magnificent cityscapes, and picturesque river views. It offers couples an extensive list of attractions. The Carew Tower Observation Deck overlooking the city, the Cincinnati Observatory – a hilltop observatory in a historic park-style setting, and the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden are some of the most impressive attractions in the city. Quirky attractions such as the Mushroom House and American Sign Museum, exhibiting unique American signage are rare gems couples won’t find anywhere else. Top natural attractions include the California Woods Nature Preserve and Caldwell Nature Center. Things to Do in Cincinnati Photo: nat693/Fotolia

Fort Lauderdale is well known for its beaches, culture, arts, and diverse collection of attractions and events. It’s historic riverfront, romantic gondola rides along the canals, and exquisite shopping opportunities along Las Olas Boulevard are among the best activities. An exceptionally landscaped beachfront promenade featuring paved brick paths, and the legendary white wave wall are the top attractions. The historic districts, famed Millionaires Rowwhere yachts and mansions are aplenty, and the Stranahan House are other must-sees. Couples can also choose to stroll through the Arts and Entertainment District featuring galleries, museums, and restaurants, or take one of several tours in the Everglades. Keep reading for more short vacation ideas and last minute vacation packages. Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

Nashville, Tennessee’s capital city, is situated in the midst of rolling hills. It’s the country and western music capital of the world, and home to the Grand Ole Opry. The city blends the warmth and grace of the Old South with the vibrant energy of a cosmopolitan city. Nashville features an eclectic and diverse restaurant scene, amazing boutique shops, and numerous galleries and museums, as well as an array of attractions and events. Couples should be sure to check out the Parthenon, a replica of the Greek landmark. The Country Music Hall of Fame, Ryman Auditorium, and Bicentennial Capital Mall State Park are also must-sees on a last minute getaway. Things to Do in Nashville Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

Phoenix, the 5th largest city in the nation, is nestled in the stunning Sonoran Desert. It’s a place that is both vibrantly cosmopolitan and beautifully low-key. It is rich with culture, art, and history offering couples a wealth of shopping opportunities, an energetic nightlife scene, attractions, and events. Camelback Mountain, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix Zoo, and South Mountain Park are among the city’s main draws. Castle N’ Coasters, an entertainment center; Pueblo Grand Ruin, a Pre-Columbian site and home to the Hohokam people; the Heard Museum, devoted to Native American civilizations, and the Mesa Arts Center give couples on a last minute getaway plenty of things to do and see. Keep reading for more cheap vacations, last minute vacation packages and great weekend getaways. Things to Do in Phoenix Photo: Scott Griessel/Fotolia

Couples who consider themselves culinary and craft beer aficionados will want to consider Pittsburgh for a last minute getaway. They can dive right into the foodie scene on a ‘Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour, and get not only a sampling of many local eateries, but also a historic narrative of the neighborhood on this walking tour. Architecture buffs will be impressed by both Frank Lloyd Wright’s indescribable Fallingwater, and his home on Kentuck Knob, both are open for tours. There are countless ways to see Pittsburgh together by bike, riverboat, Segway, or trolley, to name a few. For spectacular panoramic views, couples will want to ride the Duquesne Incline to the observation deck atop Mt. Washington. Keep reading for more long weekend getaways. Things to Do in Pittsburgh Photo: SeanPavonePhoto/Fotolia

Fire Island is the prime choice for those couples longing for the nostalgic past and a seemingly simpler time. Accessible by ferryboat from New York’s Long Island, Fire Island is part pristine wilderness, part quaint villages, and part dazzling white sand beaches. Couples can indulge all three on this barrier island. The tiny, walkable island has no roads, and therefore no cars. Couples should also not expect fancy condos or high rise buildings. This is where folks go to relax and enjoy each other’s company. Charming communities range from vibrant Ocean Beach and Ocean Bay Park to lively villages of Fire Island Pines and Cherry Grove to serene Lonelyville. Keep reading for more getaway deals. Keep reading for more last minute getaways. Photo: demerzel21/Fotolia

Asheville offers a trendy mountain vibe for couples who are looking to immerse themselves in the magic of the Blue Ridge Mountains. While anytime is the right time for couples to visit Asheville, there is something special about fall. The brilliant yellow, orange, and red autumn leaves last from about mid-September to mid-November, making it easy to squeeze in a quick trip. For the best view, including year-round sunset views, couples should may their ways to Sunset Terrace at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Other ideas for couples include exploring the farm-to-table and craft brew scene, checking out the live music calendar for what’s on deck, and spending a day in the River Arts District or the Biltmore Estate. Things to Do in Asheville Photo: jonbilous/Fotolia

When people think of Texas Hill Country, luxury spas, an enclave of notable wineries, and German heritage may not be the first things that spring to mind, but that’s what couples will find in Fredericksburg. Any one of those three surprises could keep a couple enthralled for a quick getaway, but there’s more. Duos who enjoy the outdoors won’t want to miss Enchanted Rock State Natural Area for hiking, rock climbing, camping, and stargazing. Texas Hill Country and LBJ Ranch Tour with Wine Tasting are other must-dos here. The Main Street stores, restaurants, galleries, and bars alone are enough to fill a getaway itinerary. Find Things to Do in Fredericksburg or keep reading for more last minute travel deals.

VacationIdea Tip: The best time for a last minute escape are weekdays, especially if you are driving to a nearby inn or a spa resort. Browse last minute family getaways. Photo: dfikar/Fotolia

Couples choosing this art colony for a last minute getaway will find a mix of fine art, culture, history, and natural beauty. Taos hits the spot for artists and other creatives. There are numerous galleries and themed museums to explore, quite a feat for a town of under 6,000 people. Architecture buffs will appreciate Taos Pueblo, a multi-story adobe structure that has been continuously inhabited for over a thousand years. Touring the Earthship community, or even trying to spend a night there is another unique experience. Other activities for couples could include a romantic dinner at Lambert’s, a hike or bodywork session at Ghost Ranch – former home of Georgia O’Keefe, and driving the scenic High Road. Find Things to Do in Taos or keep reading for more cheap vacation ideas. Photo: Darla Hallmark/Fotolia

Cape Cod is a top New England destination for couples booking a last minute getaway. Outdoor enthusiasts can jump right in biking, hiking, or riding horseback along the Cape Cod Rail Trail. The 22-mile paved trail connects to many of the island’s natural highlights, including Cape Cod National Seashore at trail’s end. The Marconi portion of the 40-mile coast has spectacular sand cliffs and epic views. Much of the coastline is pristine beaches. History buffs should make their way to Provincetown where they’ll find the Pilgrim Monument commemorating the site of the Mayflower landing.Cape Playhouse in Dennis is the country’s oldest summer theater, perfect for a night out. Things to Do in Cape Cod Photo: Jin/Fotolia

Couples looking for a last minute getaway in Sacramento could spend their entire time on the Delta King Riverboat, permanently moored on Sacramento’s Riverfront, or use it as their base of exploration. Couples who dig street art can use a Sacramento Mural Map on their tablets or smartphones and peruse all 685+ of the city’s murals with Instagram links to 80% of them. Couples looking for a relaxing stroll should head to Discovery Park where they can also play Frisbee, fish, and bike. There’s no shortage of incredible restaurants in Sacramento. Foodies could eat somewhere new at every meal and never be disappointed. Keep reading for more getaway deals. Things to Do in Sacramento Photo: Dima_Rogozhin/Fotolia

Twenty-seven miles of gorgeous, white sand beaches with the Gulf of Mexico stretching out as far as the eye can see make Panama City Beach the ideal destination for a last minute getaway. Beaches and water sports take center stage here. Couples can rent paddle boards from the Boardroom for a day on the water together, hop on a Boggy Bayou airboat tour, or swim with the dolphins on a Blue Dolphin Tour. There’s snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and countless other watersports for couples to do together. Eco-conscious couples will appreciate St. Andrews State Park, and Panama City Beach Conservation Park.Dining and shopping enthusiasts will love the oceanfront Pier Park. Things to Do in Panama City Beach Photo: Jim/Fotolia

Albuquerque is the hot air ballooning capital of the world, so couples opting for this last minute getaway will want to take advantage of that fun fact. Located in New Mexico’s high desert, there are a host of other outdoor activities too. Couples can hike the Sandia Mountains, bike the popular Paseo del Bosque Trail, or grab a seat on the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway. Historic Old Town and Historic Nob Hill are must-see neighborhoods for couples wanting to explore the history and culture of Albuquerque. A visit to Acoma Pueblo and Sky City Cultural Center will offer traveling couples insights into pueblo culture. Couples who are kids at heart will have a blast with the Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure. Keep reading for more cheap vacations. Things to Do in Albuquerque Photo: Solaria/Fotolia

Couples looking for a little romance on a last minute getaway to Portland, Maine, may want to explore Casco Bay, which offers an array of fun things to do like exploring the art scene, kayaking, biking, or taking the ferry to Peaks Island, known as the Coney Island of Maine. Other outdoor experiences include touring the city’s six lighthouses, taking a tour devoted to Portland’s maritime history, orlobstering with Lucky Catch Cruises.Old Port provides couples with a quaint, yet upscale shopping and dining experience. For a quirky way to spend some time, couples can make the 12 minute ride to Scarborough to visit Lenny, the 1,700 pound chocolate moose at Len Libby Chocolatier. Find Things to Do in Portland, Maine or keep reading for more last minute getaways. Find more affordable ideas and last minute vacation deals from New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, Atlanta, San Diego, Los Angeles, Chicago and other cities. Photo: Allen.G/Fotolia

Lenox, Massachusetts, is a thriving New England town that serves as the gateway to the Berkshires. It’s the perfect last minute getaway for couples who appreciate nature and history. Couples can commune with nature and each other walking or biking the trails of Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary. During summer, the Boston Symphony Orchestra makes its home in Tanglewood, which includes Lenox. Historic downtown Lenox is a quaint, walkable village with a few architectural landmarks like the Lenox Library. The village food scene thrives on locally grown farm-to-table fare.Fall provides an explosion of color during peak fall foliage in October, and winter skiing abounds on local downhill resorts. Keep reading for more last minute travel deals and weekend breaks. Photo: lspi138/Fotolia

Harrisonburg affectionately referred to as both “The Friendly City” and “Rocktown,” is a vibrant, diverse, and contemporary city featuring a passion for libations and delicious local food. It is also a cutting-edge culture and arts town with historic roots. The stunning Shenandoah landscape, remarkable mountain ranges, and wide array of outdoor recreational spaces are some of the biggest draws for couples and nature enthusiasts. It is also home to Virginia’s first recognized Arts and Cultural, and Culinary Districts, a 40-block area filled with architecture, views, restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Top attractions include the Valley Turnpike Museum, the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum, and the Hillandale Park. Photo: steheap/Fotolia