Whether you want relax on the beach, go on an adventure or find the best room or suite with a view and order room service, we've made a list of over 50 vacation ideas for couples for every taste and budget. If you are looking for short trips from a major city, browse weekend ideas from major U.S. cities.
1. Best Beach Vacation Spots for Couples
Romantic beach destinations are often a favorite with couples and honeymooners and there is certainly much to choose from. Whether you are looking for white sandy beaches of Oahu, the world's best pink sand beaches or black sand beaches, there are amazing choices all around the world. Explore the beaches of Costa Rica, Michigan, Oregon, North Carolina and California.
2. Finland
It’s hard to find a more romantic autumn getaway than a trip to Finland. Watching the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky from an igloo, venturing out on an Aurora Borealis snowshoe or cross-country ski tour, or experiencing a husky safari along the Taiga forest gives travelers a taste of this remarkable destination. Named among top travel destinations worldwide, Finland excites year-round with its natural beauty, including the iconic nighttime summer sun. Visitors can explore everything from lakes and forests to peat lands and fells. In Helsinki, couples can experience urban spa complexes that soothe the senses, explore the Moomin Museum to tickle the fancy, and dine on the complex flavors of Finnish ‘wild’ food. Things to Do in Finland
3. Couples Vacations: San Francisco
The compact city of San Francisco on California’s northern coast with its iconic hills and cable cars offers couples an array of possibilities for a fun getaway. Couples looking for a little romance should consider a sunset sail through San Francisco Bay, martinis at Top of the Mark, and admiring the Bay Lights on the western span of Bay Bridge. Traditional couples wanting the classic San Fran experience will want to visit Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown, Coit Tower, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Quirky couples may want to glide down the Seward Street Slides, catch a movie at the historic Castro Theater, and visit the Wave Organ, an acoustic sculpture. Things to Do in San Francisco
4. Saint Lucia
Saint Lucia has long been considered a premier Caribbean destination, especially for couples. Sun-kissed days on the island are filled with fun activities for two from beachside massages to horseback riding, four-wheeling, and zip lining. Adventurous couples will appreciate watersports like diving, snorkeling, sailing, and kite-surfing, to name a few. Known as one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful islands, couples will adore palm fringed, volcanic beaches, an interior of unspoiled rainforest, and the gorgeous peaks of the Piton Mountains. Northern St. Lucia is all about luxurious resorts, superb restaurants, award-winning spas, and lively night life. The southern part of the island is all about quiet romance, nature, and tranquility. Things to Do in Saint Lucia
5. New York City
A couple’s getaway to New York City calls for focus. There are so many phenomenal things to see and do, that the savvy couple will need a plan. For striking views of the Big Apple, the obvious choice is the Empire State Building, but One World Observatory and Top of the Rock are equally impressive. A show on Broadway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the out-of-towner. A Taste of Harlem food and culture tour is a must-do before taking in a show at the Apollo Theater. Of course, a trip to New York City would be incomplete without a visit to Central Park for a romantic horse and carriage ride, or ice skating at Wollman Rink. Things to Do in NYC
6.Seychelles
The couple who truly wants to get away will adore the Seychelles, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, where they can book a stay on a private island, or rent a yacht for the ultimate in privacy. Luxury can be found at numerous five-star retreats and remote resorts. Anse Source D’argent is one of the most surreal and beautiful beaches in the world, perfect for lounging on the beach and snorkeling. Simple pleasures include a heritage tour of La Digue that includes traditional coconut oil processing and seeing 200-year-old giant tortoises. The “love nut” found on a guided walk through Praslin’s Vallée de Mai nature park is a quirky side note to the ethereal World Heritage Site. Things to Do in Seychelles
7.Vacation Ideas for Couples: Kauai
Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is covered with tropical rainforests crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls. This getaway will appeal to the independent couple looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Nature takes center stage here with a variety of outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Some parts of the island, especially along the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the North Shore, can only be accessed by sea. All the action happens on the South Shore where couples can shop, golf, lounge around Poipu Beach Park, and watch the Spouting Horn blowhole. Koloa Heritage Trail that explores culture, history, and geology from Poipu to Old Koloa Town is a must-do.Kauai, also known as the Garden Island, is covered with tropical rainforests crisscrossed by rivers and dotted with mesmerizing waterfalls. This getaway will appeal to the independent couple looking for an authentic, off-the-beaten-path getaway. Nature takes center stage here with a variety of outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking. Some parts of the island, especially along the dramatic cliffs of the Napali Coast on the North Shore, can only be accessed by sea. All the action happens on the South Shore where couples can shop, golf, lounge around Poipu Beach Park, and watch the Spouting Horn blowhole. Koloa Heritage Trail that explores culture, history, and geology from Poipu to Old Koloa Town is a must-do. Keep reading for more couples vacations. Best resorts in Kauai
, From LA8. Couples Vacations: San Diego
San Diego lives up to its moniker as America’s Finest City. California’s southernmost city has 70 miles of Pacific coastline, broad beaches, the largest urban park in the U.S., and 100 interesting neighborhoods. There are nearly 20 hotels and resorts that cater to adults for a romantic stay, including boutique 1906 Lodge on Coronado Island and swanky Andaz in East Village. Balboa Park with its museums, Old Globe Theatre, San Diego Zoo, and Prado Restaurant could fill up an entire getaway itinerary. Renting a story-telling GoCar on a GPS-guided route is a fun way to explore the city together from a one-hour neighborhood tour to an all-day see it all tour. Things to Do in San Diego
9. Vacations for Couples: Italy
From relaxing under the Tuscan sun in Piombino to the iconic gondola rides of Venice, Italy has no shortage of destinations perfect for a couple’s getaway. For couples who love classic Italian architecture and culture, there’s no better destination than Rome, beginning with the Pantheon. Cinque Terre and the Amalfi coast provide a jaw-dropping views, exquisite dining, and colorful cliffside villages. Lake Como not only provides a relaxing and tranquil getaway, quaint villas, and beautiful vistas, but there’s also the chance of running into a European or Hollywood star, since many make their homes here. The Medieval towns in the charming hills of Umbria offer a fusion of nature and art. Places to Visit in Italy
10. Couples Vacation: Australia
Couples will fall in love with the only country in the world that’s also a continent. Australia is the perfect couple’s paradise situated between the South Pacific and Indian Oceans. The Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Cairns is its premier attraction. Couples can experience its wonders together snorkeling, kayaking, and exploring, and at the end of the day, retreat to Bedarra Island at one of eight private villas hidden in the rainforest. Trendy couples will thrill to the coastal cities of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. Adventurous types will be drawn to the mountains and savannahs of the red sand outback. Keep reading for more couples vacations. Places to Visit in Australia
11. Vacation Ideas for Couples: Bora Bora
Bora Bora is an island in Tahiti’s Society Islands archipelago of French Polynesia. This self-proclaimed Romance Central is an other-worldly getaway for couples. The slopes of Mount Otemanu are lush and green with tropical vegetation dotted with fragrant hibiscus blooms. Powdery white-sand beaches, swaying coconut palms, and an emerald lagoon are inviting symbols of paradise. Couples can choose overwater, thatched-roof floating villas with direct access from room or suite to the lagoon, or other luxury accommodations. There are plenty of water sports, plus sunset sails, motu (island) picnics, hiking, four-wheeling, and even helicopter touring. Snorkeling Bora Bora Lagoonarium and the Coral Gardens are must-do activities. Things to Do in Bora Bora
12. Aspen
Aspen is best known as a ski town nestled in the Colorado Rocky Mountains that is a wildly popular winter getaway, but it’s a cool destination for couples year-round. One must-do activity is taking the Silver Queen Gondola to the top of Aspen Mountain and having a moonlight dinner with live music on a Friday night. In the same spirit of culinary kicks, couples can learn the art of cooking and entertaining at the Cooking School of Aspen where they can take a private class together. There’s partner yoga at Aspen Spa, or a couple’s massage at Reméde Spa for working out life’s stresses together. It doesn’t get more romantic than a champagne brunch followed by a hot air balloon ride above the Rockies. Things to Do in Aspen
13. Vacation Spots for Couples: Costa Rica
Couples who love nature as much as each other will find their perfect getaway in Costa Rica. Long considered one of the world’s most bio-diverse countries, partners will find plenty of places to commune with nature like walking through the cloud forest at Poas Volcano National Park, or hiking the tropical forest of Manuel Antonio Park on the lookout for capuchin monkeys, coatis, sloths, and the elusive quetzal. Costa Rica is also a great destination where couples can satisfy their cultural curiosities with sustainable cuisine, local artisan handicrafts, creole swing dance, and historical walks in San José, Cartago, Puntarenas, and Limón. Next read: Costa Rica beaches, Places to Visit in Costa Rica
14. Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs offers couples an enchanting getaway in the mountains. Outdoorsy couples looking for a unique getaway will find it at an authentic Colorado Springs guest ranch. At Lost Valley Ranch couples can choose Western adventures from cattle round-ups to rodeos, cowboy cookouts, square dancing, and many others. The Broadmoor Fly Fishing Camp provides couples with a world-class fishing experience combined with accommodations in a 1940s miner’s cabin. City slickers will be inspired by Colorado Springs’s craft brew scene. With over 30 craft breweries and distilleries, taking the Crafts and Drafts tour is the best way to sample them. An absolute must-do is a trip to the top of Pike’s Peak together – by car, train, bike, or on foot. Things to Do in Colorado Springs
15. London
London getaways for two are all about choices. Equestrians will want to take the reins along the famous Rotten Row bridle path in Hyde Park. The 322-foot-long champagne bar in St. Pancras Renaissance London Hotel, self-proclaimed the “most romantic building” in London, is the place to toast life together with one of over 17 champagne varieties. A stroll along the Grand Canal in Little Venice to admire the colorful houseboats offers quiet moments. Or, couples can take in the cosmopolitan charm of Notting Hill with its edgy art and theater scene and distinctive restaurants. Of course, there’s the obligatory Buckingham Palace Tour followed by afternoon tea. Savvy couples can plan their getaway around one of the city’s popular events like Wimbledon, the oldest tennis tournament in the world. Things to Do in London
16. Vacation Ideas for Couples: Toronto
Everyone defines a couple’s getaway differently. For hockey fans, especially Toronto Maple Leaf fans, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the thrill of victory together surrounded by equally passionate, screaming fans. For a more subdued on ice experience, couples can make their way to Nathan Phillips Square for a few arm-in-arm laps around the rink. Partners can break out the long white gloves and black bowtie at the Canadian Opera Company in the Four Seasons Center for the Performing Arts. For a simple, yet chic last minute getaway, a stay at the Thompson Toronto boutique hotel not only offers luxurious guestrooms and suites, but a panoramic view of Toronto from the swanky Rooftop Lounge. Things to Do in Toronto
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17. Paris
Paris was made for romance. Of course, nothing is more romantic than nighttime views from the top of Eiffel Tower. A late-afternoon walk along the River Seine to watch the dramatic tango dancers, or a stroll through the hidden alleyways with their charming bars and eateries makes for a few pleasurable hours of coziness. Shared conversation over a glass of wine at Clos de Montmartre gives couples down time in a beautiful setting. Couples will definitely want to make their ways to Bois de Vincennes Park where they’ll discover the Temple of Love on an island in the middle of the lake. It can be accessed by footbridge or rowboat. Things to Do in Paris
18. Vacations for Couples: Miami
A last minute couple’s getaway to Miami means choosing the neighborhood that matches the vibe you’re looking for. From the exuberant American Riviera of South Beach to the haute community of the Design District to the historic culture of Overtown, this city can satisfy the most discriminating couple. Nature lovers can explore Everglades National Park for hiking, biking, fishing, and camping. Biscayne offers couples opportunities to explore the nation’s largest marine park. History buffs will be enchanted with Vizcaya Museum & Gardens in Coconut Grove. The Venetian Pool, a historic swimming pool with stone bridges and waterfalls, offers a mix of beauty and tranquility. Next read: Miami beaches, Things to Do in Miami
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19. Santorini
Santorini is a group of five Greek Islands in the southern Cyclades. This is the premier destination for romance in all of Greece. Oia is renowned for its famous sunset views, but will also dazzle couples with its panoramic views, stunning architecture, and delectable Greek cuisine. In fact, combining an Oia sunset with a scrumptious dinner at Ambrosia restaurant will make for incredible memories. A ride up or down the Fira cliffs on the modern Santorini Cable Car is not only fast, but offers spectacular views. Hot Springs and volcano mudbath tours from Old Port provide a sensual few hours of fun.
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20. Ireland
Romance is in the air on the Emerald Isle. The socially conscious couple may want to spend time in Dublin’s Temple Bar district where they’ll find the Amnesty International Fair Trade Shop among numerous other stores, restaurants, and art galleries. Vintage Tea Tours acquaint couples with Dublin on a double-decker bus tour while enjoying afternoon tea delicacies with 1950s jazz music. It doesn’t get much more romantic than touring Ireland’s Ancient East, land of Vikings, high kings, heroes, and castles. Adventurous couples will get their thrills from a last minute getaway to Ireland’s Atlantic Coast as they rock climb sea stacks, kayak off Renvyle Beach, or cycle the Wild Atlantic Way. Things to Do in Ireland
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21. Luxembourg
Luxembourg is probably the most interesting country in Europe, and is definitely the most diverse. In the Ardennes region, visitors will find a majority of the country’s castles. A last minute getaway to charming Vianden can include a tour of Vianden Castle and panoramic views of Our Valley. A quick visit to Remich means seeing the best of the Moselle wine region where couples can taste and learn about local wines. Luxembourg City is teeming with historic treasures including the Grand Ducal Palace and the Bock Casements. Wherever couples choose to land, they can be sure the local cuisine will be exquisite, since Luxembourg has a higher density of star rated restaurants than any country in the world. Places to Visit in Luxembourg
22. Vacation Ideas for Couples: Vermont
Vermont is a favorite year-round travel destination for couples planning a last minute getaway. Autumn is stunning with its displays of red, orange, and yellow leaves in late September or early October. In winter, couples can hit the ski slopes and take in the beautiful scenery together. Besides pleasant spring snow skiing, couples can also visit one of the many sugarhouses making maple syrup. Summer brings camping, fly fishing, and golfing, plus a plethora of festivals and celebrations. Those who thrive on arts and culture will get plenty of satisfaction in Vermont with an abundance of museums, galleries, sculpture parks, artisan shops, and even a sweet trip to Ben & Jerry’s ice cream factory. Places to Visit in VT
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23.Holland
Holland is home to Vincent Van Gogh, one of Europe’s most famous artists. A last minute getaway to Amsterdam can include a trip to the Van Gogh Museum to see the world’s largest collection of his work, but visiting his home in the Brabant region can be equally fun. A trip to one of Holland’s famous wellness centers could be just what the doctor ordered for the harried couple. Flower and gardening enthusiasts can take their getaway to Lisse and the annual tulip festival in April. Cycling is a big pastime in Holland, and couples who enjoy the sport will find plenty of last minute tours like the Super Tulip Tour or the Windmills and Pastures Tour. Things to Do in Holland
24. Norway
Norway tops the list of happiest countries in the world, so where better to go for a last minute couple’s getaway? For duos wanting a romantic experience, it doesn’t get much better than seeing the Northern Lights, and staying at an ice hotel in the Arctic town of Tromso. Other quick getaways include fascinating activities like two days on a whale research safari, or a day of cruising the UNESCO World Heritage Fjord Geiranger on a sightseeing boat. Adventurous couples may want to indulge in the rush of a guided glacier tour or a guided ice cave tour. Just hanging out for a few days in Oslo or Bergen can be a restorative experience. Things to Do in Norway
50 Unique Vacation Ideas for Couples
- Best Beach Vacation Spots for Couples, Photo: Courtesy of ricardoreitmeyer - Fotolia.com
- Finland, Photo: Courtesy of Mikhail Markovskiy - Fotolia.com
- Couples Vacations: San Francisco, Photo: Courtesy of rudi1976 - Fotolia.com
- Saint Lucia, Photo: Courtesy of Brad - Fotolia.com
- New York City, Photo: Courtesy of sborisov - Fotolia.com
- Seychelles, Photo: Courtesy of Jenny Sturm- Fotolia.com
- Vacation Ideas for Couples: Kauai, Photo: Courtesy of SergiyN - Fotolia.com
- Couples Vacations: San Diego, Photo: Courtesy of SeanPavonePhoto - Fotolia.com
- Vacations for Couples: Italy, Photo: Courtesy of Maridav - Fotolia.com
- Couples Vacation: Australia, Photo: Courtesy of andriislonchak - Fotolia.com
- Vacation Ideas for Couples: Bora Bora, Photo: Courtesy of eyetronic - Fotolia.com
- Aspen, Photo: Courtesy of natureguy - Fotolia.com
- Vacation Spots for Couples: Costa Rica, Photo: Courtesy of F.C.G. - Fotolia.com
- Colorado Springs, Photo: Courtesy of Sergio - Fotolia.com
- London, Photo: Courtesy of Maridav - Fotolia.com
- Vacation Ideas for Couples: Toronto, Photo: Courtesy of Tharanga - Fotolia.com
- Paris, Photo: Courtesy of anyaberkut - Fotolia.com
- Vacations for Couples: Miami, Photo: Courtesy of Kevin - Fotolia.com
- Santorini, Photo: Courtesy of Patryk Kosmider - Fotolia.com
- Ireland, Photo: Courtesy of visinheski - Fotolia.com
- Luxembourg, Photo: Courtesy of Christian Muller - Fotolia.com
- Vacation Ideas for Couples: Vermont, Photo: Courtesy of mky44 - Fotolia.com
- Holland, Photo: Courtesy of olenaznakk - Fotolia.com
- Norway, Photo: Courtesy of Blickfang - Fotolia.com
- Cover Photo: Courtesy of BlueOrange Studio - Fotolia.com
More Beach Getaways
Vacations for couples that involve lazy days on the beach and swimming in the ocean seem to be at the top of everyone's list, and for a reason. The ocean is deeply relaxing as well as fun, so what better place to rest and re-connect than right on the water. If you want warm and sunny weather with an array of beaches to explore, cash in your frequent flier miles and take a trip to Maui which offers many great things to do for couples. Grand Wailea Resort has a sandy beach, the resort offers shopping, golf and a spa.
Florida is a wonderful beach destination year-round. We recently published 25 Best Romantic Beach Vacations in Florida where you will find many great ideas for couples.
On the coast of Georgia, the elegant Cloister at Sea Island is a private getaway with activities such as horseback riding on the sand.
On the West Coast, some great romantic getaways include L'Auberge Del Mar Resort, The Ritz-Carlton Half Moon Bay, Montage Resort , Casa Del Mar and Hotel del Coronado. Terranea Resort in Southern California offers rooms with a view that will make you want to stay in throughout your stay. Have dinner at the resort's signature restaurant, or order room service, if you want to sample food prepared by one of the top chefs.
Mexico offers a varied selection of affordable beach escapes, including resorts where kids under a certain age are not allowed, such as Viceroy Riviera Maya and Maroma Resort. As an added benefit, if you stay at Maroma Resort on the Yucatan Peninsula, you will have access to many famous Mayan archaeological sites. Grand Velas on Playa del Carmen offers luxury suites with spectacular ocean views, and a white-sand beach.
The Caribbean islands should not be left out of a list of romantic trips, and there are many awesome places to pick from, ranging from affordable San Juan to luxury Antigua, BVI and more. The Turks & Caicos Club is next to some of the most beautiful sandy bays in the British West Indies. At Peter Island Resort, one can expect five star service and incredible ocean views. Or stay at Cotton House and share the secluded island of Mustique with the rich and famous.
Escape to the Florida Keys and stay at Cheeca Lodge & Spa which is set on 27 oceanfront acres, between Everglades National Park and North America's only coral barrier reef. Explore the beautiful coastal areas of Florida, go swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving on your romantic trip. Key West is a must-see as well.
If you have time for a longer trip, head to Le Meridien Bora Bora and stay in one of the over-water bugalows surrounded by the blue lagoon of Bora Bora. The hotel features a turtle protection center, a spa and even some over-water rooms with glass-bottom floors. Australia is home to some of the most romantic resorts in the world. Honeymoon suites on Bedarra Island are fabulous, featuring private plunge pools and spectacular ocean views. Browse more romantic getaways.
More unique trips for couples in: Maine, Vermont and New Hampshire.
Weekend Ideas
The Inn at Ocean's Edge in Maine is a quick weekend getaway from Boston and Portland. The inn has stylish guest rooms, a cozy fireplace and a gourmet restaurant. Other great romanitic options in Maine include The White Barn Inn and the eco-friendly Colony Hotel.
Southern California is home to some fantastic weekend spots, including the San Ysidro Ranch, the newly opened Terranea Resort, Hollywood Regency-style Viceroy Palm Springs and The Fairmont Miramar Hotel.
If you are looking for a wine tasting getaway from Atlanta, try Chateau Elan which has its own vineyard and a spa. Or you can visit Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains from Washington D.C. and stay at Keswick Hall
Best vacations for couples: Small Town Honeymoon Destinations in the U.S., East Coast Honeymoon Vacations and Best European Honeymoon Vacation Ideas.
Luxury Escapes
If you are looking for a luxury resort with a little bit of everything, get away to The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Arizona. You can play golf, get massaged at the spa and work out at the fitness center.
Best couples vacations: Florida getaways, St. Lucia and Costa Rica.
Romantic Spas
Bathe in the healing mineral waters of Palm Springs when you visit The Well Spa at Miramonte. Try the river bench water therapy for couples.
Visit Big Sur and stay at the ultra-romantic Post Ranch Inn, offering spectacular views of the coastline, organic food and innovative healing treatments.
A stay at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs will let you combine a relaxing spa vacation with outdoor activities and adventures. The spa at the Broadmoor offers many treatments for men and women. Another romantic mountain spot is the Peaks Resort in Telluride.
There are many brand new city spas which make a quick spa getaway easier than ever. In Boston, the new Mandarin Oriental has a 16,000-square-foot holistic spa with state-of-the-art facilities, including restful meditation areas. In New York City, there is the new Peninsula Spa by ESPA and the new spa at The Carlyle.
If you have time for a trip across the border to Canada, The Fairmont Palliser in Calgary will let you combine outdoor activities with soothing massages at the spa. The romantic Wickaninnish Inn on Vancouver Island has an Aveda-concept spa and rooms with spectacular ocean views. Surrounded by pristine nature in the Canadian Rockies, The Fairmont Banff Springs features a European-style resort spa and a 27-hole championship golf course. Painted Boat Resort is a brand new vacation getaway in British Columbia with a spa and 31 villa accommodations.
More vacation spots for couples: Niagara Falls, Oregon and Connecticut.
Islands
The Ali'i Tower at the Hilton Hawaiian Village resort in Waikiki is great for couples. A stylish hotel within a hotel, The Ali'i Tower has its own pool, check-in area and incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. You'll be just steps from the sandy Hawaiian beach. A benefit of staying at a large resort like the Hilton Hawaiian Village is access to an array of facilities, services and dining options.
Travelers who have visited the isand of Tahaa in French Polynesia claim that it is one of the most romantic places on the planet. Scents of vanilla float through the air from the island's vanilla farms. Stay at Le Taha'a Private Island Resort, set on its own little motu, offering over-water bungalows.
More ideas: 20 Relaxing Tropical Island Vacations.
More Destinations for Couples: Augusta, GA
Augusta is a gracious southern city whose river-side location, tree-lined avenues and wonderful historic district and offer visitors the perfect weekend destination. You can learn all about the turbulent history of the area at the Augusta Museum of History which focuses on all aspects of regional history including the railroad, healthcare and even banking. There are several well-preserved historic homes that you can visit including the Woodrow Wilson Boyhood Home (1859), Meadow Garden (1791) and the Ezekiel Harris House which dates back to the 1700's. The beautiful Augusta Downtown Historic District is home to dozens of buildings in many architectural styles, several of which are open to the public.
Art enthusiasts can feast their eyes on five galleries of fine art at the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art or see a large collection of art from the American south at the Morris Museum of Art which is situated along the popular Riverwalk, which hosts the outdoor Candlelight Jazz Series each summer. You can watch a show at the amazing Imperial Theatre (built in the early 1800's) or listen to a production by the famous Symphony Orchestra Augusta.
If you are feeling energetic you can go hiking, cycling or wildlife viewing at the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park or head to Pendleton King Park to enjoy the bird park, golf course and children's adventure playground.
Little Rock, AR
Plan your next weekend getaway to Little Rock, the capital of Arkansas, to enjoy many historic attractions, unique museums and a variety of outdoor activities. First-time visitors can get a good overview of the city by jumping aboard the River Rail Electric Streetcar, which stops at many of the city highlights including the Arkansas State Capitol, where you can go on a guided tour of the very impressive century-old building.
If you enjoy history you can visit the Museum of Discovery, the Old State House Museum, the Historic Arkansas Museum and the unique William J. Clinton Presidential Library and Museum. For something completely different you can take a tour of the most unusual ESSE Purse Museum which showcases handbags through the ages. The vibrant Arkansas Arts Center and the Arkansas Repertory Theatre are magnets for arts enthusiasts, while the Tuesday and Saturday Farmer's Market in River Market District provides a great draw-card for foodies.
There are many miles of walking, hiking and cycling trials that connect various parts of the city - you can walk across the Big Dam Bridge or take on the extensive 88- mile Arkansas River Trail System.
Children can see a variety of wildlife including butterflies, pelicans and turtles at the Witt Stephens Jr. Central Arkansas Nature Center or have fun at the Little Rock Zoo and the Peabody Splash Park in Riverfront Park.
The Catskills, NY
Smart city dwellers can escape the stress of the concrete jungle and unwind in the peace and serenity of the Catskills, just an hour or two from New York City. The very scenic area encompasses a series of mountainous and forested areas just west of the Hudson River, all protected within the 700,000 acre Catskill Park. The entire area offers a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts who come to enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing and water sports in the summer, and exciting skiing in winter. Some of the most popular resorts areas include Windham Mountain, Plattekill Mountain, Falling Waters Reserve, Hunter Mountain and Slide Mountain. At Hunter Mountain you can try out the longest and highest zip-line in the state, or take a more relaxing option on the Skyride Chair Lift.
If you can drag yourself away from the trails and skiing, you may like to visit a few of the local museums including Time and the Valleys Museum in Grahamsville (telling the story of the importance of water), Empire State Railway Museum, the Fort Delaware Museum and the Handford Mills Museum, where you can see a genuine water-and-steam powered mill. Art lovers and Baby Boomers can take a nostalgic journey to the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, built on the site of the famous 1969 Woodstock Festival.
Rochester, NY
Rochester is best known as a hot-bed of technical innovation that brought names such as Kodak, Xerox and Bausch & Lomb to the world. In addition, Rochester is home to vineyards and wineries, breweries, great museums and excellent arts venues to keep visitors happily entertained. You can learn about the Kodak story at the George Eastman Museum, (situated in a beautiful Colonial-Revival Mansion), and then visit the Corning Museum of Glass and the National Susan B. Anthony Museum and House, (which pays tribute to the famous campaigner for women's rights during the Civil War).
Arts enthusiasts can visit the Memorial Art Gallery and Artisan Works or attend a musical recital at Kodak Hall in the Eastman Theatre. The Rochester City Ballet and the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra are other popular entertainment choices.
Wine connoisseurs can choose from three separate wine trails through Finger Lakes Wine Country which is home to over 100 vineyards and wineries, and outdoor enthusiasts have a wide choice of great hiking, cycling or walking trails including the Genesee Riverway Trail which runs for 24miles along the scenic Genesee River.
Family attractions include The Strong - National Museum of Play, which is totally dedicated to the art of playing, Rochester Museum and Science Center (which has over 200 interactive exhibits and simulators) and the RMSC Strasenburg Planetarium, which features space-mission simulators and Saturday night laser shows.
Fredericksburg, TX
Fredericksburg in Texas owes its distinct atmosphere to the German immigrants who established the city back in 1846, laying the foundations of a city that now showcases 19th century German architecture teamed with Texan hospitality. A good place to start your exploration would be Marktplatz (Market Square) where you will find the Vereins Kirch Museum, the oldest building in town. On either side of the square you can admire historic architecture as you stroll along Fredericksburg Main Street.
History buffs can increase their knowledge of military history by visiting the unique National Museum of the Pacific War, (where you will find the Admiral Nimitz Museum, the George H.W. Bush Gallery and the Japanese Peace Garden) and Fort Martin Scott, a U S Army outpost built in 1848. The Pioneer Museum Complex documents local history and you can tour nine of the eleven historic buildings on site.
Nature lovers can go hiking in the Old Tunnel State Park (where you have a chance to see millions of bats take to the air), Enchanted Rock State Park or along the Willow City Loop. The Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park is a great place to take the family for a picnic or to play some sports.
Fredericksburg is surrounded by vineyards and wineries you can visit for tours and tastings - there are several tour companies to take you around.
