Last Minute Weekend Getaways (my favorite cheap vacations!)
Looking to get away last minute? Great idea! Over the years, I’ve realized that some of the best weekend trips and road trip are the ones you don’t over-plan. Here are my favorite easy 48 hour weekend getaways I’ve singled out near places I've lived and I hope you'll love them too.
Jamestown, Rhode Island - 35 minutes south from Providence
I thought that this coastal town was one of the best weekend getaways to go last minute when I moved to the East Coast. Why? I love that as soon as you cross the bridge into Jamestown, the world seems much more peaceful. Moreover, you'll find unique historic sites to explore. Plus, I think that Jamestown has some of the best ocean views in the state.
Jamestown sits on Conanicut Island (in the middle of Narragansett Bay!). It's actually just 11 minutes from Newport, so you really get two destinations in one.
We've often found an affordable vacation rental here last minute and didn't need much advanced planning to enjoy the sights. In the warmer season, a scenic walks in Beavertail State Park is a must. Visiting Windmill Hill Historic District which dates back to the 18th century is a great way to get in touch with local history.
My other highlights include sipping coffee at Slice of Heaven in town, visiting Fort Wetherill State Park right on the ocean, and watching a sunset from the marina.
I think that visiting Newport while being based in Jamestown is quite enjoyable too. You can travel between Newport and Jamestown either by taking the Jamestown Newport Ferry or by simply driving across the Claiborne Pell Newport Bridge. I think that the ferry provides a cool hop-on-hop-off experience (all-day passes are available).
Local tip: I have to warn you that summer weekends always get busy, especially mid-day. I recommend arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon. I definitely recommend avoiding bridge traffic midday if you can.
Emporia, Kansas
Few people would consider Emporia, Kansas when making last minute vacation plans, and that's exactly why I love it. It's still quite off-the-beaten path, but very fun and quite affordable too. Set along the rolling Flint Hills, this area is one of the most quietly beautiful stretches if you love nature, about 1.5 hours southwest from Kansas City.
Park downtown, where you'll find historic brick buildings, murals, and locally owned shops. Be sure to stop for coffee and pastries at Gravel City Roasters.
Head to David Traylor Zoo of Emporia and have fun surrounded by animals and nature.
I loved visiting the National Teachers Hall of Fame because it reminded me how meaningful Emporia’s contributions are to the country’s story.
What I loved best:
Outdoors, I enjoyed exploring the nearby Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. The rolling prairies were absolutely spectacular, especially at sunset. I loved how easy it was to take in that wide-open Kansas beauty just minutes from town.
New York City
I thought this city was a fascinating last minute destination. Ready for a last minute big city adventure? I lived in New York City for 10 years and have been back more times than I can count! Trust me: the city has plenty of hidden spots that are kid-friendly.
In Brooklyn, Private Picassos gave me a moment to slow down. You can join an art class, nothing fancy, just a bright space, a few brushes, and the hum of deep in creative focus.
From there, I headed to Casa Kids, a design showroom to give you creative ideas for bedrooms.
When you get hungry, BKLYN Larder is a fantastic stop for prepared foods, sandwiches, salads, baked goods (I like the Vegetarian Kale Caesar).
I ended the afternoon at Greenlight Bookstore in Fort Greene. I used to come here for author talks.
What I loved best:
Tucked away in the heart of the city is one of the quirkiest, most delightful discoveries I’ve ever stumbled upon—The Museum of Interesting Things (be sure to get tickets in advance). The Museum of Interesting Things is a rare kind of experience: part pop-up exhibit, part performance, and entirely full of wonder.
A downside? I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge! Every time I return, I think that traffic couldn't be worse. I actually recommend not driving in the city. Subway is fast and affordable. And even when you take a cab, trips take longer than anticipated due to traffic.
A few more thoughts on Brooklyn
I absolutely adored exploring Brooklyn and discovering its unique personality.
You can count on stumbling on amazing food throughout Brooklyn which is prefect for a spontaneous weekend. You can usually find a last minute hotel deal because there are so many hotels and rentals in Brooklyn.
I recommend heading to Brooklyn Bridge Park and taking photos of the Manhattan skyline from the park (like in my photo). You can walk across the Brooklyn Bridge too if you have lots of energy.
Foodies will find SO much to choose from in Brooklyn. For a romantic date, go for elevated dining at Francie or Oxomoco, both Michelin-starred. Or if you prefer a neighborhood vibe, try Lucali just heads up that their wood-fired pizza can mean a long line. Beer lovers can head to Other Half Brewing in Carroll Gardens.
If you are feeling overwhelmed, you can easily book a last minute organized tour once you get there. There are so many cool tours on offer, from food tours to art and photography.
48 Hours in St. Augustine, Florida
For me, visiting America's oldest city was like a dream! If you are a history buff like me, you'll love St. Augustine, founded in 1565.
Besides history, there is a lot to love about St. Augustine, nicknamed the "Ancient City". It's so easy to explore because it's compact. That's why it's one of my favorite last minute vacations.
My absolute favorite attractions are Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, Lightner Museum, the St. Augustine Lighthouse, and St. Augustine Beach.
What about food? Inventive coastal cuisine at Catch 27 is a standout.
I also had excellent Garlic Shrimp Scampi at Saint Italian Restaurant. Then there is locally inspired dining at Collage Restaurant. For casual eats, grab breakfast at Maple Street Biscuit Company. Want waterfront views? Go for tacos and margaritas at O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits.
Yemassee, South Carolina Activities and Attractions
I absolutely adore this small town of approximately 1,000 people and fell hard for the beautiful nature all around.
I found Yemassee by accident while on a road trip through South Carolina. It instantly became one of my favorite romantic last minute getaways. You'll find Yemassee about one hour southwest from Charleston.
I learned that this region was home to skirmishes in the Revolutionary era. And during the Civil War, Yemassee served as a rail junction for Confederate troops.
I recommend checking out Old Sheldon Church Ruins. When hunger strikes, you can get great Lowcountry comfort food at Harold’s Country Club. Locals pointed me to this quirky local favorite housed in an old gas station. After, stop by Carolina Cider Company for homemade pies and Southern treats.
Best Last Minute Getaways in the Mountain West
When I'm in the mood for a quick escape into wide-open spaces, the Mountain West delivers—no long planning required.
Washington, DC
I love Washington, DC, for me it's a must-visit. Luckily, getting away to DC last minute was straightforward. If this is your first visit, I recommend joining a guided tour with a local guide. Yes, you will learn about history but also about the latest restaurant openings.
I love that getting around DC is easy thanks to the Metro system and well-connected bus routes. If you’re flying in, the Metro runs directly from DCA (Reagan National Airport) into downtown, which is quick and affordable. Depending on where you’re staying, you can use the Metro to move between neighborhoods like the National Mall, Capitol Hill, Georgetown, and Dupont Circle. I usually prefer public transportation here since traffic and parking can be frustrating.
If this is your first trip here, I think you should start with the classics: the monuments and museums along the National Mall never fail to impress. Standing before the Lincoln Memorial and gazing toward the Capitol felt absolutely spectacular.
But what I really enjoyed was discovering spots beyond the Mall. Visiting Dumbarton House in Georgetown was a highlight. The 18th-century Federal-style mansion, with its period furnishings and gardens, gave me a cool glimpse into early American life in a peaceful setting away from the crowds.
One experience I really enjoyed was a guided monuments tour, especially in the evening. Seeing the memorials lit up at night gives them a completely different feel.
Food was a huge part of the trip, and Washington, DC, delivered in the best way possible. I grabbed casual bites at Fish Taco, where the flavors were fresh, affordable, and full of personality. Dinner at Osteria Morini by the waterfront was spectacular, with pasta dishes that reminded me of Italy. For a touch of history, 1789 Restaurant in Georgetown was refined and timeless, while Founding Farmers & Distillers gave me that modern, lively farm-to-table vibe.
What I loved best:
Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill to a birthday was my favorite highlight - oysters and classic American dishes are incredible in a historic setting.
Last Minute Weekend in Broomfield, Colorado
I thought this was one of the most striking places on my vacation in Colorado. On a whim, I caught the Flatiron Flyer bus (FF1 line) from downtown Denver to Broomfield (about 30 minutes, $5–$6 one way) for some solo RR this weekend.
I started at FlatIron Crossing, wandering through shops and cafés. One of my favorite discoveries was the Broomfield Depot Museum, a hidden gem where you can go to learn about the town’s railroad history.
My personal highlight was walking around in Carolyn Holmberg Preserve. You'll find wheelchair-accessible trails, cool spots to fish, and picnic tables for a picnic.
Best Last Minute Getaways on the Gulf Coast
I'm heavily biased when it comes to the Gulf since some of my favorite beaches are located here, whether you are in Texas (where I live full time!), Florida, Mississippi or Louisiana. Here's where to go last-minute:
Bay St. Louis, Mississippi
I absolutely loved it here because Bay St. Louis is still off-the-beaten path on the Gulf Coast. This was one of my favorite coastal towns I visited since moving to the South.
From New Orleans, I drove one hour east on my day trip to "The Garden of the Riviera". This is a small Gulf Coast town of around 10,000 residents.
I recommend visiting historic downtown first. I loved how the waterfront invited me to slow down. I enjoyed walking along the marina and watched sailboats.
Later, I spent time on the beach even though it was too cold to swim.
You can also explore the charming Old Bay St. Louis Historic District, the Alice Moseley Folk Art Museum and the historic 100 Men Hall.
Foodies won't be disappointed either. Enjoy Gulf-to-table dining at The Thorny Oyster, and casual dining at Mockingbird Café.
Best Last Minute Getaways on the West Coast
These West Coast destinations make it easy to pack a bag, hit the road, and enjoy a refreshing escape without weeks of planning.
Madison, Wisconsin
I absolutely love Madison, Wisconsin, and have visited multiple times. If you’re craving a weekend trip that blends college-town energy with lakeside calm, this is one of my top picks.
Set between two lakes and home to the University of Wisconsin–Madison, the city has a laid-back, intellectual vibe that makes it a joy to explore, even if you’re only there for a day.
From Milwaukee, I drove 1.5 hours west to Madison, the state capital and a city of about 275,000.
Driving to Madison is generally easy, especially compared to bigger cities. Traffic is usually manageable, and parking downtown is straightforward if you use ramps near the Capitol or State Street.
I walked around the Capitol Square first, where the striking dome towers over the city, and I thought it was one of the most spectacular state capitols I’ve ever seen.
From there, I wandered into the farmers’ market, tasting fresh cheese curds and baked goods—it felt joyful just to be part of the crowd, laughing and sampling everything I could.
I loved how the city is tucked between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona; no matter where I went, water seemed to frame the view, and it gave my day such a unique backdrop.
Later, I explored State Street, where students, and travelers all blended together among cool cafés, quirky shops, and lively street performers.
One of my favorite parts was ducking into a small brewery, sipping local craft beer, and realizing how much pride Madison takes in its food and drink scene.
Watching the sun set was my favorite highlight - sitting by the Memorial Union Terrace with colorful chairs lined up by the water, listening to music and watching the sailboats drift across the lake—it was an exciting way to end the day.
I checked into The Edgewater Hotel for two days, which won the prestigious AAA Four Diamond so you can trust it's a high quality place.
Sedona, Arizona
Ahh Sedona, Arizona, a red-rock wonderland that feels straight out of a dream! This is one of my favorite places to visit when I need a last-minute escape that feels absolutely extraordinary. I felt completely awed by the towering red rock formations glowing in the sun—it was like entering a spectacular desert painting come to life.
From Phoenix, I drove 2 hours north to Sedona, a desert Arizona town of about 10,000 surrounded by towering red sandstone buttes.
I started with a hike at Cathedral Rock, and I loved how every turn revealed a new view that felt both powerful and peaceful at the same time.
Afterward, I explored Uptown Sedona, wandering through galleries and boutiques filled with local art and crystals, and it gave me a joyful sense of connection to the town’s creative spirit.
I thought it was exciting to take the jeep tour, bouncing over rugged trails while learning the history and geology of this unique landscape.
I found a quiet spot by Oak Creek to sit, dip my feet in the cool water, and watch the sunlight shift across the cliffs—it felt like a hidden gem tucked away from the crowds.
Foodies will find endless choices in Sedona, from refined Southwestern dining at Mariposa Sedona and Cress on Oak Creek, where the menu highlights seasonal ingredients and breathtaking red rock views, to creative comfort fare at The Hudson, known for its lively atmosphere and upscale twists on classics. For casual dining, try The Coffee Pot Restaurant for hearty breakfasts (they also host exciting holiday parties). I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge!
One of my favorite moments was standing at Airport Mesa at sunset, watching the whole valley light up with brilliant oranges and purples.
Feeling the calm energy Sedona is known for was my favorite highlight, especially near the vortex sites, where the desert air seemed to hold an unusual stillness that was unforgettable.
Personally, I recommend staying at least one night because Sedona’s sunsets and star-filled skies are something you won’t want to rush. There are many different options for all budgets (from $53/night).
Angel Fire, New Mexico
In the mood for a last minute trip to the Southwest? This mountain resort, tucked into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico near Taos, felt like the best last minute mountain escape from the moment I arrived. I drove about 2 hours northeast from Santa Fe to Angel Fire (Google Maps pin), a high-mountain village in the Moreno Valley of the Sangre de Cristo range.
In winter, you can hit the slopes at Angel Fire Resort. The trails are not too demanding yet exciting, with spectacular mountain views at every turn. It's much less crowded than some of the bigger resorts, giving me more room to truly enjoy the snow.
San Simeon and Cambria
As a beach lover, I absolutely adore this part of California. If you are in the mood for a peaceful West Coast trip, head to San Simeon and Cambria last minute. The towns are about 15 minute from each other, connected by famous Highway 1 views.
In San Simeon, you can enjoy the historic Hearst Castle, the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, and the Piedras Blancas Light Station.
The Moonstone Beach Boardwalk is another local gem, about one mile long. You'll find it in Cambria and I recommend watching the sunset here.
Los Angeles
I fell hard for Los Angeles when I first visited years ago and we've been back many times since.
I recommend landing in LA and taking the scenic 4-hour drive north to San Simeon (and Cambria). But first, spend a couple of days discovering LA. Similar to Brooklyn on the East Coast, I find Los Angeles very easy to visit last minute. There's so much to choose from that you can be as spontaneous as you like.
If you are feeling active, start your morning with Aloha Brothers Surf Lessons in Venice.
Afterwards, I enjoyed visiting Wilding Cran Gallery where I admired paintings, sculpture, and photography.
One night I tried The Murder Mystery Company. I thought it was an exciting way to spend an evening among friends.
I checked into 4-star Hotel Angeleno. The hotel is actually a stylish circular tower with panoramic views of the city. I loved how cool and modern it felt.
Visiting Frogtown Brewery in the evening was another highlight. Sipping craft beer along the L.A. River was a hidden gem away from the usual Hollywood crowds.
Pelican Lake & Birch Forest Lodge
I was wowed by the nature here! Looking for a Midwest trip last minute and want to relax on a lake? Check out Pelican Lake near Orr (Google Maps pin) in northern Minnesota. To me, it felt like a hidden gem tucked away in the Northwoods. I drove about 4.5 hours north from Minneapolis to Pelican Lake and I instantly thought my journey was worth it!
You can enjoy some fantastic fishing here! Pelican Lake is known for its walleye, northern pike, and bass. There is also boating and summer canoeing. There is so much to discover here if you enjoy nature, with countless bays, islands, and winding shoreline! Just don't forget to look up to admire all those eagles soaring.
Lake Placid, NY
Craving a relaxing weekend near the lake? Check out Lake Placid which was a real standout! You can look forward to heaps of activities, delicious food and relaxing on the water.
Cozy up by the fireplace, soak in a whirlpool tub, or stroll along the lakefront while staying at Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort. In the winter, ski the slopes, and in the summer hit the trails, or paddle across Mirror Lake just outside your door.
Gettysburg
I absolutely loved Gettysburg, and visiting last minute was easy. This small Pennsylvania town is historic with natural surroundings. About 1.5 hours north from Washington, D.C., Gettysburg is the site of the pivotal Civil War battle in July 1863.
I recommend heading to the battlefields, and standing on those rolling hills where so much history unfolded. The monuments, trails, and scenic overlooks give you a chance to reflect while also appreciating the quiet beauty of the countryside.
One of my favorite highlights was visiting the Gettysburg Diorama. Seeing the entire battlefield laid out in miniature, with lights and narration bringing the three days of battle to life. It will give you a clear perspective and make everything you saw outside even more meaningful. It truly felt like a hidden gem for understanding the scope of Gettysburg.
Downtown Gettysburg is a must-visit too, especially when you get hungry. You can get great burgers at Blue & Gray Bar & Grill while surrounded by a Civil War theme.
There are many diverse accommodation options from vacation rentals to hotels, so it's easy to go on a last minute vacation. Gettysburg Hotel is a solid choice.
What I loved best:
Dinner at The Dobbin House Tavern. The 18th-century home is super unique and the food exceptional.
