Travel

The 50 Best Weekend Getaways: Mini Vacation Destinations Worth Exploring

courtesy image 46 / 50

by Ashley Mateo

46. Hilton Head, SC

Why Hilton Head: An affordable domestic escape for east-coast travelers, Hilton Head Island offers temperate weather all year—but shoulder season is especially nice for avoiding high-season crowds. In April, the RBC Heritage Presented by Boeing—South Carolina’s only PGA golf tournament—takes place at the famed Harbour Town Golf Links.

Where to stay: Health-oriented travelers will love Hilton Head Health, where exercise classes—from early morning hikes to bootcamp and yoga—are held just steps from the ocean (or even on it, if you sign up for a paddle-boarding excursion). TRUE Restaurant serves up low-calorie meals that don’t skimp on flavor, and Indigo Spa offers custom organic facials and muscle-soothing massages.

For access to exclusive gear videos, celebrity interviews, and more, subscribe on YouTube!

courtesy image 47 / 50

47. Aspen, CO

Why Aspen: Aspen’s busy ski season typically ends with bluebird days in mid-April, but Snowmass will extend it if the snow keeps falling (and March can be the area’s snowiest month). But as the snow thins, people take their mountain bikes to dried out trails or their rods to the rising river. And the city continues to live up to its party reputation, with epic closing day festivities throughout April at Buttermilk, Aspen Highlands, and Aspen Mountain and Snowmass.

Where to stay: The St. Regis Aspen Resort recently debuted their River & Air to Table experiences: high-end fishing or bird-hunting excursions led by the St. Regis Aspen’s Executive Chef Laurent Pillard in partnership with Aspen Outfitting. Later, guests join Chef Pillard in creating a multi-course lunch or dinner inspired by their angling and sporting adventures. Also consider Viceroy Snowmass (the hotel’s own Toro restaurant has superb chipotle miso black cod and NY strip steak with grilled avocado and crab Oscar), or Aspen Meadows Resort, home of the world-renowned Aspen Institute, largely influenced by Herbert Bayer (pioneer of Bauhaus-style architecture).

courtesy image 48 / 50

48. Platte River Valley, NE

Why Nebraska: Every March/early April, more than 80 percent of the world’s population of Sandhill cranes (that’s 600,000-plus birds, FYI) converge on the Platte River Valley in Central Nebraska These birds are the world’s oldest living species (dating back to the dinosaurs), so seeing them in action is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Where to stay: Get up close and personal with the birds (without disrupting their natural migratory pattern) during a one-night, two-day stay at one of the Crane Trust’s three legacy cottages in a VIP package that includes meals, reception, heated blinds, and an expert guide.

courtesy image 49 / 50

49. New Orleans, LA

Why the Big Easy: Spring is New Orleans’ peak travel season, which makes sense given the timing of Mardi Gras. But even if you’re not interested in earning your party beads, the early spring months are prime time for exploring the Big Easy without suffering through the sweltering summer temperatures. It also brings events like the French Quarter Festival (early April) or JazzFest (late April to early May).

Where to stay: The Drifter Hotel is actually a mid-century motel (hence the retro “motel” sign) set just outside the French Quarter. It’s recent renovation gave it a resort-y, Latin vibe, complete with a tropical wall mural and poolside food trucks that dish out Cuban, Haitian, and Mexican food.

courtesy image 50 / 50

50. Las Vegas, NV

Why Sin City: Spring in Vegas tends to bring Sin City’s most moderate weather. It’s also when the hotel pools (and the parties that come with them) open, if that’s your scene. If it’s too chilly for a dip, there are plenty of spring events to entertain you, like NASCAR Weekend in March; Viva Las Vegas, the Academy of Country Music Awards, and Vegas Uncork’d in April; and Helldorado Days and the Billboard Music Awards in May.

Where to stay: The Wynn Las Vegas is a great place if you prioritize detoxing over retoxing. The dozen-plus restaurants cater to vegan and/or vegetarians; there’s an on-property Soul Cycle; and The Spa at the Wynn offers relaxing treatments, like Thai-influenced deep-tissue massages and hydrating collagen-booster facials.

More News

Adventure Cruises That Take Setting Sail to New Heights

Travel Tips: Expert Advice for Vacationing Safely During COVID

Escape the Ordinary at These Iconic Design Hotels

Embark on the Off-Roading Adventure of a Lifetime in West Virginia

U.S. to Reopen Borders With Canada and Mexico This November

Best Resorts and Hotels in Mexico to Get Away From the Crowds

All Stories