11 Last Minute Romantic Getaways
Ready for a spontaneous adventure with your loved one? You're in the right place. For me personally, last-minute romantic getaways are the perfect solution when I want to get away with my husband without too much planning. I honestly think the fun is in the surprise. Here are some of the most unique last-minute getaways I came across on our four week road trip that I hope you’ll love for your next spontaneous romantic adventure.
- West Coast
- - #1. Florence, OR - #2. San Francisco - #3. San Marcos, CA
- Southwest
- - #4. Pueblo, CO - #5. Edelweiss Lodge in Taos, NM - #6. Slot Canyons Inn – UT
- The Rocky Mountains
- - #7. Livingston, Montana
- Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways in the South
- - #8. Greenville, South Carolina
- In the Midwest
- - #9. Benton Harbor, Michigan - #10. Baraboo, Wisconsin
- East Coast
- - #11. Manhattan
Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways on the West Coast
This region is perfect when I'm in the mood for great food, romantic Pacific Ocean views and no long planning required!
Florence, Oregon
We loved visiting Florence on the coast of Oregon when we were based on the West Coast. We visited last minute on a recommendation from a friend and it quickly became one of my favorite romantic weekend getaways. Driving in from Eugene was easy. I can vouch for its convenience (just under an hour if you are driving).
Now, first things first, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is a must visit. It stretches for miles just outside of town so you can't miss it. These heaps of sand dunes are unlike anything else in the Pacific Northwest. Plus you get the lovely blue ocean in the background. One of my favorite moments was visiting Heceta Head Lighthouse pictured here.
In addition to the iconic dunes, I thought Florence was enchanting with its Old Town storefronts, boardwalk, and the Art Deco Siuslaw River Bridge above the marina.
Morning coffee at River Roasters was my personal highlight because both Macchiato or Cappucino were delicious.
Not sure how to fit it all into your schedule? Another excellent way to visit Oregon’s northern coast is with an organized tour with a local guide.
A downside?I found the prices a little higher than other small coastal towns in Oregon.
San Francisco
On our last minute romantic getaway to San Francisco we began our morning at Plow in Potrero Hill. I ordered the lemon ricotta pancakes which were fluffy and golden, already enjoying our last minute trip.
After, we drove about 20 minutes to the Randall Museum. It's set on a hilltop gem which by itself is amazing. In addition, you'll find heaps of hands-on exhibits, fascinating geology displays, and live animals, including an entire beehive behind glass.
Later, we walked to the Castro district, just 10 minutes from the museum. We ducked into StarBelly for a midday pause. Their flatbread was crisp and salty with fig and goat cheese. Nearby, Super Duper Burgers pulled us in with the smell of grilled beef and garlic fries.
After lunch, we drove another 20 minutes west to the Legion of Honor. This is a grand museum above the Presidio with incredible views of the Golden Gate. Inside, you can enjoy strolling through galleries of ancient artifacts and European paintings.
Dinner that night was great fish at Kusakabe. We walked around the Jackson Square area and ended up stopping last minute at Delarosa for late-night Roman pizza and fried artichokes. I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge! That evening, we ended at Raven Bar.
Next day, we followed a last minute tip of a friend and joined a Emperor Norton’s Fantastic San Francisco Time Machine tour.
We based ourselves at 4-star Fairmont San Francisco (around $379/night) for two romantic days.
San Marcos, Southern California
Ready for a last minute romantic trip to Southern California? We loved our last minute road trip to San Marcos.
You’ll definitely want a car for this road trip because the city is spread out and public transit options are limited, especially if you are used to downtown San Diego and other South California towns. Fortunately, parking is easy in San Marcos, even free in many areas.
You can enjoy lots of outdoor activities. Double Peak Park is absolutely a must-visit because its panoramic views. Nearby Lake San Marcos also offers pleasant (and romantic!) walking paths along the waterfront.
Eating steaks at The Mining Company in their Gold Rush-themed dining room was my personal highlight on this romantic trip.
Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways in the Southwest
Dreaming of a spontaneous escape filled with desert sunsets and nights under the stars? Chris and I love the Southwest. Here's where to go.
Pueblo, Colorado
I loved visiting this sunny city of around 111,000 people last minute this month. You'll find it along the Arkansas River about two hours south of Denver in Colorado. If you’re road-tripping through Colorado or heading toward New Mexico, I think that Pueblo is a really cool stop along the way.
I learned one thing the city is especially proud of is being known as the “Home of the Chile.” Pueblo green chile is milder than other varieties. You’ll find it served on everything from burgers to pizza which was super unique. If you’re visiting in early fall, you might even catch the annual Chile & Frijoles Festival downtown.
I also found the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk perfect for a romantic stroll, boat ride, and then a riverside meal after. You can also visit the El Pueblo History Museum to learn about the city’s multicultural past or explore nearby Lake Pueblo State Park if you’re in the mood for some outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or kayaking.
For me, Pueblo, Colorado is one of the best last minute romantic getaways because it's historic, affordable, and I hope you will love it too!
Breakfast at B Street Cafe is one of my favorite highlights - B Street Burrito was tasty and filling.
Taos Ski Valley, NM and Edelweiss Lodge and Spa
Loved the idea of but want to be higher up in the mountains? Check out Taos Ski Valley which has a base elevation of 9.200 feet (vs about 4,700 feet in Pueblo, CO). I think Taos Ski Valley, is one of the most underrated getaways in New Mexico because it's off-the-beaten path outside of the ski season.
Chris and I drove north from Santa Fe in about two and a half hours, enjoying views of high desert mesas along the way. Need an exceptional place to stay on your last minute trip? Check into Edelweiss Lodge and Spa. Our spacious suite for two days came with a full kitchen, a comfortable living area, and a private balcony. We found ourselves just steps from great hiking trails in the summer.
In the evening, I loved returning to the comfortable lodge and its restaurant. If Edelweiss is not available last minute, there are other accommodations options, ranging from hotels to vacation rentals.
Escalante, Utah and Slot Canyons Inn
At a similar elevation but a much smaller town than Pueblo, CO, Escalante, Utah (elevation about 5,800 feet, population about 800) is one of my favorite last minute romantic vacations in the Southwest. You can easily visit Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument from here, and all the spectacular slot canyons nearby as well.
I recommend a stay in a comfortable room with a King bed at Slot Canyons Inn (from $175). Why? We could hike from our doorstep right into stunning canyons, explore unusual rock formations. Moreover, Calf Creek Falls was just a short drive from the inn.
Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways in the Rocky Mountains
Getting away last minute to the Rocky Mountains is the best kind of adventure!
Livingston, Montana
Since I already shared my favorite last minute romantic escapes in Colorado, New Mexico and Utah, I don't want to leave out Montana. Livingston (elevation about 4,500 feet, population about 9,200) is one of my favorite small town for a last minute getaway. We discovered it decades ago while visiting Yellowstone which is just one hour south of there. It's also just a 25-minute drive east from Bozeman.
You can learn about the town's old Western roots, browse galleries, and cafés. Sacajawea Park is the best spot in town for views of the river and mountains. If you base yourself in a vacation rental Livingston, you can explore a big portion of Montana from here.
Staying two peaceful nights in a Grand Suite with a King bed at the 3-star Murray Hotel completely won me over. It's a landmark 1904 hotel with vintage Western decor that was absolutely perfect for our anniversary.
Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways in the South
I'm more than a little biased when it comes to the Southern USA because I live here full time. I can vouch for the South being romantic any time of year so if you get a chance for a last minute getaway, go for it.
Greenville, South Carolina
Our last minute getaway to Greenville, South Carolina couldn't have been more romantic. We went for drives and hikes around the Blue Ridge Mountains which allowed us to spend heaps of quality time together. But first we headed to Falls Park on the Reedy. Seeing a waterfall right in the middle of the city was so cool and unexpected! We enjoyed the Liberty Bridge (an elegant pedestrian suspension bridge) which offers beautiful views of the falls and surrounding gardens.
Getting to Greenville, South Carolina is easy last minute, with Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport only about 15 minutes from downtown. Even if you’re driving, the city sits conveniently between Atlanta and Charlotte.
On your romantic getaway, you can treat yourself to handmade chocolates at Mast General Store, admire public art downtown, and have a romantic lunch and dinner.
In fact, the food scene here is impressive so finding a romantic dining spot was easy. You get to choose from elevated Southern cuisine to international flavors. We had a great Angus beef burgers at Grill Marks.
If you enjoy guided experiences, food and walking tours are a fantastic way to get to know the city and Greenville has lots of tours available by local guides.
Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways in the Midwest
I love getting away to the Midwest to escape the summer heat of Texas, but I have to admit that I'm still just getting to know this wonderful region. For me, romance in the Midwest is all about hiking, and scenic (often lakeside!) landscapes.
Benton Harbor, Michigan
Looking for a romantic lake vacation last minute? With a population of just over 9,000 people, Michigan's Benton Harbor is just the kind of small town that can give you the perfect setting for a romantic getaway. Plus, you’re never far from Lake Michigan and beaches.
Dinner at The Brick House was my personal highlight. I went for the veggie burger, simple and satisfying!
Baraboo, Wisconsin
Love the idea of a cooler weather last minute trip with your loved on? Another small town we love it Baraboo, Wisconsin. You'll find it about one-hour from Madison, and a few hours from Chicago or Milwaukee, so getting away is easy last minute.
You'll find a lake in Baraboo too, just much smaller. After grabbing breakfast, we visited the historic Circus World set on 64 acres. I loved seeing the world’s largest collection of restored historic circus wagons here!
Later in the day, we enjoyed exploring Devil’s Lake State Park. The park’s towering bluffs and peaceful lake views were some of the best I’ve ever seen in the Midwest!
At the end of the day, we enjoyed the scenic Baraboo Riverwalk.
Best Last Minute Romantic Getaways on the East Coast
As a former Manhattan resident, I’ve always loved how easy it is to plan a romantic weekend right in town last minute.
Things to Do in Manhattan
Having lived here for 10 years before moving to Austin, I still love Manhattan for a last minute romantic break because everything is right at your fingertips.
First, we wandered through Central Park and stopped for lunch at Viand Coffee Shop on the East Side.
In the afternoon, we took a cab to UNIX Gallery, a contemporary art gallery on W 27th St. You'll find paintings, sculpture, photography, and even some large-scale installations.
For me, Manhattan is one of the easiest last minute trips to plan for romance.
We also explored the West Village, and we found ourselves sharing small plates great for sharing at Le Labar.
Local tip: Joining a tour in Manhattan is a great idea if it's your first visit. The New York Adventure Club is a real standout...helping you finding behind-the-scenes hotspots.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
