Gulf Shores boasts miles of pristine shorelines, laid-back beach shack restaurants, and, of course, classic southern hospitality. Around the city, you’ll also find plenty of golf courses, nature trails, and arcades. While staying here, consider renting a beach house just steps from the shore so you can come and go from the sand as you please. 

At Denali National Park, travelers can greet sled dogs, hike virtually untouched terrain, and so much more. Those who want to see the park from above should arrange a helicopter flightseeing tour. Camping sites are available through the National Park Service; however, those looking for something more modern should book a stay at one of the four lodges within the park’s boundaries. 

Not only is Sedona home to awe-inspiring red rocks, but it’s also chock-full of wineries, scenic hiking trails, and hundreds of shops and galleries. In the middle of it all is the boutique Sky Rock Inn, which offers a slew of amenities (including a heated pool, hot tub, and wellness workshops) plus panoramic views.

While the city of Hot Springs is known for its namesake national park, there are plenty of other things to do besides soaking in the natural springs. Consider stopping in at the Gangster Museum of America or exploring the Garvan Woodland Gardens. For a secluded stay, make arrangements at the Hot Springs Tree Houses, which offer cozy accommodations in the middle of the woods. 

Known for its stylish hotels, tranquil desert surroundings, and midcentury-modern architecture, Palm Springs is an absolute must-visit. While in the city, consider taking a jeep tour through the desert, catching a live performance at one of the many theaters, shopping along Palm Canyon Drive, or simply soaking up the California sunshine. You can’t go wrong with a stay at The Saguaro Palm Springs, which is known for its colorful rooms, vibrant pool area, and hip ambiance. 

Breckenridge is an all-season mountain town with so much to do. Explore the quaint downtown streets and pop into some of the many shops and restaurants. Those with a sense of adventure can embark on a late spring or summer hike, while fall brings postcard-worthy foliage. Come winter, the destination transforms into an oasis for skiers, snowboarders, and snowshoers. Stay at Gravity Haus to take advantage of the on-site, Japanese-inspired onsen, which has soaking tubs and saunas. 

From great beaches and boating opps to delicious pizza spots and craft brews, New Haven has something for everyone. For a memorable activity that's sure to delight everyone in your group, check out the Elm City Party Bike, which allows you to bring your own beer as you stop at various restaurants around the city. There is also a plethora of bed and breakfasts in and near the city, including the charming Chatfield Hollow Bed & Breakfast, which, with just five rooms, has an intimate rustic lodge feel. 

Strolling along the boardwalk at Rehoboth Beach is a great way to start or end any day at this weekend getaway spot. The adorable beach town is home to a go-kart track, a water park, and, to top it off, plenty of dining options. While there are many beachfront properties to choose from, opt for a boutique hotel like The Bellmoor Inn & Spa, which has a stunning outdoor garden, free breakfast and afternoon snacks, a complimentary beach shuttle, and an on-site spa.

Amelia Island is near the Florida-Georgia border, making it a fantastic weekend getaway for folks from both states. The quaint island is known for its lively downtown that's dotted with locally owned shops and restaurants. Meanwhile, history buffs can stroll through Fort Clinch State Park, which was used during the Civil War. Reserve your stay at Omni Amelia Island Resort, where every room faces the ocean. 

Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega is known for its historic gold mines. The town also boasts a handful of orchards, where you can pick fruit or sip local wines. Alternatively, head out on a hike to one of the nearby waterfalls before returning to your rental home to get ready for dinner at The Smith House.

Thanks to its rich cultural significance and natural wonders, Lihue is one of the most popular towns on the island of Kauai. Kalapaki Beach is known for its surfing and stand-up paddle boarding. Meanwhile, those looking for an authentic luau will want to venture to the Kilohana Plantation, where the Luau Kalamaku is a sight to behold. Make the centrally located Kauai Beach Resort and Spa your home base for exploring. 

Sun Valley is a year-round mountain hideaway. While winters are for skiing, summers are for scenic hiking. Even better? Travelers can leave their car at home if they want, since resort and town shuttles can take them virtually anywhere near Bald Mountain. Stay at the centrally located Sun Valley Lodge, which has hosted celebrities like Oprah Winfrey and Tom Hanks. 

The charming town of Galena is just three hours from Chicago, making it a fun weekend getaway for city dwellers. Here, travelers can go birding, cruise down the river, or step back in time to stand in the room where Ulysses S. Grant found out he would be the next POTUS. Be sure to try one of the many Friday fish fry locations, a town tradition. Stay at the Farmer's Guest House, a lovely inn best known for its tasty breakfast and gracious hosts. 

Bloomington is a fun college town where the outdoors beckons everyone to soak up the sunshine. Summer and fall are great for spending a day on Lake Monroe, teeing off at the golf courses, or catching a football game at Indiana University. Live music and delicious food go hand-in-hand on weekends, when restaurants and bars host local musicians. Stay close to it all at Grant Street Inn, a cute boutique property with just 40 rooms.

Arts and culture enthusiasts will appreciate Cedar Rapids, where live performances and museums abound. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art features the largest collection of works from Grand Wood, the artist who painted American Gothic. You can also enjoy a night at the ballpark to watch the Cedar Rapids Kernels, the local Minor Baseball League team, play. For a luxury stay, consider The Hotel at Kirkwood Center, where rooms are outfitted with floor-to-ceiling windows, bespoke furniture, original artwork, and marble bathrooms. 

The college town of Manhattan comes alive during football season when K-State fans flock to the stadium to cheer on the Wildcats. Outdoor enthusiasts should hike or bike Tuttle Creek Lake and zipline over the Flint Hills. Reserve a room at the Bluemont Hotel, a boutique property near the university. 

Kentucky is known for its bourbon, and the city of Louisville happens to be the start of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. After partaking in a bourbon tasting, head to the river to embark on the historic Belle of Louisville steamboat. The Brown Hotel, which has been welcoming guests since 1923, is known as the birthplace of the famous Kentucky hot brown sandwich.

With walkable parks, historic landmarks, and plenty of Creole cuisine to go around, Louisiana's capital city of Baton Rouge — which is just an hour from New Orleans — is ideal for a weekend getaway. Take a gander inside Louisiana's Old State Capitol, known for its incredible stained glass dome. Then, enjoy a feast at Acme Oyster House before returning to your room at The Watermark, famous for its dreamy Art Deco design. 

Bar Harbor is known for its proximity to the awe-inspiring Acadia National Park. Take a hike through the national park while you search for wildlife; then, retreat to a local coffee shop to warm up. After, explore the bustling downtown area, which boasts a beautiful Main Street lined with colorful storefronts. At night, lay your head at Ullikana, a historic home-turned-boutique hotel boasting tranquil gardens and gourmet breakfast. 

Baltimore truly offers something for every type of traveler. Check out the National Aquarium, where you can gaze at fish and other sea creatures while learning about conservation efforts. Also, don't miss Federal Hill, where row houses lead into shops and restaurants. Splurge on a stay at the Sagamore Pendry, which has a lovely pool deck overlooking the water. 

The historic town of Salem offers so much more than its witch-filled past. Guests can explore the Real Pirates Salem museum, where authentic pirate treasures are displayed. You can also walk to the end of Derby Wharf, where you’ll find a striking square-shaped lighthouse that dates back to 1871. You can also step back in time with a stay at Daniels House Bed and Breakfast, which was built by a sea captain in 1667.

Mackinac Island is known for its walkable streets, charming hotels, and complete lack of cars. While enjoying all that the island has to offer, book a tee time at one of the golf courses, ride in a horse-drawn carriage, or indulge in a sweet treat at Original Murdick's Fudge, Joann's Fudge, Ryba's Fudge Shop, or May's Candy Shop. For a romantic stay, check out the 83-room Harbour View Inn. 

The city of Duluth is ideally located along Lake Superior. Be sure to visit Congdon Park, where you'll find several cascading waterfalls. Keep the water and nature theme going by renting a lakefront cabin at Breezy Point. 

Southern hospitality is on full display in Tupelo. The city, best known as the birthplace of Elvis Presley, pays homage to the famous singer in the form of murals and statues. There are also Civil War sites, as well as the famed Civil Rights Trail. Can't get enough of Elvis? Stay at the rock 'n' roll-themed Hotel Tupelo.

Nestled right on the edge of the Missouri River is the quaint town of Hermann. Oenophiles should follow the Hermann Wine Trail, while history buffs can check out the Deutschheim State Historic Site to learn more about the German immigrants who made their way here in the 1800s. Stay at the Bohlken House, where breakfast is delivered straight to your doorstep.

Nature enthusiasts will want to make their way to Bozeman. The mountains are great for hiking and biking, while the nearby rivers are ideal for rafting. If you just want to sit and take it all in, that’s fine, too: The views from scenic drives are unmatched. Nature and animal lovers should stay at Howlers Inn B&B and Wolf Sanctuary, which, as its name suggests, is one-part B&B, one-part wolf sanctuary. 

Columbus has everything from an exciting water park to a dirt speedway. The eclectic city is also home to Glur’s Tavern, a historic saloon dating back to the 19th century. RV parks are plentiful in the city, so consider staying at one of them for a cheaper alternative to a traditional hotel. 

Lake Tahoe is a beautiful, 22-mile-long lake straddling Nevada and California. (However, the best recreational activities are on the Nevada side.) Here, you can lounge on a beach, go fishing, or hike along the shore. Don't miss Cave Rock, a unique rock formation near the lake's edge. Check out Zephyr Cove Resort, which offers everything from cabins to high-end airstreams. 

Whitefield is a quaint town where the holidays are celebrated year-round: In fact, there’s an entire theme park dedicated to Santa Claus right nearby. Also not too far from town is the Mount Washington Cog Railway, which takes travelers to the top of the mountain to check out the incredible view. Stay close to all the action at the Mountain View Grand Resort and Spa, which has spacious rooms and plenty of activities for the entire family. 

Asbury Park is a fun-filled beach town, and its vibrant boardwalk boasts plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife options. You'll also find several iconic music venues, including The Saint, Asbury Lanes, and The Stone Pony. Stay at The Asbury Hotel, a stylish property where guests can enjoy sleek accommodations, rooftop movie screenings, poolside cocktails, stylish cabanas, and wellness classes.

Carlsbad is best known as the home of Carlsbad Caverns National Park, where guests can tour caves and embark on backcountry hikes. The area is also great for birding and spotting Mexican free-tailed bats, which fly out of the caves each summer. The nine-suite Trinity Hotel welcomes guests looking to relax while taking in all that the distinct destination offers.

New York’s Hudson Valley region draws guests from all over the state thanks to its wide variety of activities and attractions. The area is dotted with expansive farms, so expect plenty of markets, food festivals, and more. Sports fans can also catch a New York Boulders baseball game. At A Tiny House Resort, tiny homes are located just steps from Catskill Creek. 

Asheville has quickly become a beloved vacation destination for foodies and craft beer connoisseurs alike. With more than 30 different breweries, travelers are bound to find the perfect brew. After, take a tour of the historic Biltmore Estate, or visit the sites where the Hunger Games movies were filmed, including The North Fork Reservoir, Henry River Mill Village, and DuPont State Forest. Stay at the Omni Grove Park Inn, which boasts a subterranean spa spanning 43,000 square feet. 

Prepare to be pleasantly surprised by Fargo, where art galleries and history museums abound. Travelers can also catch a movie or live performance at the 1926-era Fargo Theater. Don't miss Hotel Donaldson, which is best known for its impressive art collection. 

As Ohio’s capital city, Columbus is a thriving metropolis — yet it still has a special small-town feel. Must-sees sites include the historic German village and the Columbus Museum of Art. You can also check out the original Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, where seasonal flavors are inventive and delicious. Retreat to your room at Hotel LeVeque, which offers the perfect combination of modern amenities and historical charm. 

In Duncan, travelers can step back in time to the Wild West. Start the day at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, where you can learn about life in the American West before heading to Main Street for a shopping spree. Stay at The Lindley House, which feels like a cozy English cottage complete with spacious gardens.

Oregon might be known for its wine country, but Cannon Beach is a beautiful spot to unwind away from the vines. Take a stroll through Ecola State Park, where rock formations seem to dive straight into the sea. The almost-otherworldy Haystack Rock is the perfect place to spot adorable puffins. Rent a vacation home near the beach to stay as close to the sand as possible.

One of the sweetest places to visit in the US is Hershey, home of The Hershey Company. Hop on a roller coaster at Hersheypark or relax with a chocolate-infused spa treatment (yes, really!). You can also participate in a falconry class, which will have the birds of prey landing on your gloved arm. The Hotel Hershey, which has been welcoming guests since 1933, offers accommodations ranging from standard guest rooms to stand-alone cottages. 

Block Island is just a short ferry ride away from mainland Rhode Island. The beautiful isle has pristine beaches and walkable streets where people are invited to pop into shops or savor a meal overlooking the water. Strap in for a parasailing adventure over the ocean to get a birds-eye view of the island. 1661 Inn is a fun spot to stay just off the shore, and the hotel farm, which houses exotic animals, is located right across the street.

Those traveling to Greenville will find everything from history tours to food crawls. Adventure seekers can zipline over the mountain canopy or walk over Liberty Bridge at Falls Park on the Reedy, while foodies can take a chef's table culinary tour to explore the city's dynamic food scene. Even though it's about 30 minutes from downtown Greenville, Hotel Domestique — with its sprawling vineyards and award-winning restaurant — is definitely a fun place to stay. 

Deadwood has a storied history of gold mining. While visiting, you can tour the historic downtown, ride ATVs in Black Hills National Forest, or take part in Wild West reenactments. Consider renting a cabin that overlooks the Black Hills.  

Pigeon Forge is best known as the home of Dollywood, where guests can ride mountain coasters, enjoy lively dinner shows, and zip down waterslides. At Dollywood's DreamMore Resort & Spa, the on-site amenities are plentiful — and it's nearly impossible to be bored.

Head out to the Texas Hill Country to visit the town of Stonewall. The destination is home to several wineries, as well as the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. For a blast from the past, reserve a room at the 1960s-era Stonewall Motor Lodge, where the press stayed whenever the former POTUS would visit his nearby ranch. 

Calling all outdoor enthusiasts: Head straight to Moab, where Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park are both nearby. For postcard-worthy views of both parks, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the expansive landscape. Can’t get enough of the outdoors? Check out Under Canvas, which offers glamping tents outfitted with West Elm furnishings plus an abundance of on-site activities like live music, s’mores roasting, and morning yoga.

From golfing to dog sledding, activities abound in Stowe. While the destination is best known for winter sports like skiing and ice skating, warmer months still bring plenty of fun (fly fishing, anyone?). After an action-packed day, stop by Von Trapp Brewing, which is owned by the same family that inspired The Sound of Music, for a beer or two. Then, check into the Austrian-inspired, 1942-era Trapp Family Lodge.

Middleburg is known as the nation's horse and hunt capital. The adorable downtown has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore. And, just a few miles away, you'll find several wineries, including Chrysalis Vineyards and Greenhill Vineyards. For a romantic getaway, stay at the 265-acre Goodstone Inn, which offers 18 guest rooms and suites housed in historic cottages and houses. 

A weekend away in Leavenworth transports visitors to a rustic Alpine village where German customs, food, and beer are all highlighted. Bike and ranch tours of the area are also available. Stay in the middle of downtown at the Hans and Franz Lodges, both of which can sleep large groups and families. 

Morgantown is a bustling college town that welcomes students, families, and tourists year-round. Even if you’re not a college sports fan, there’s still plenty to do here, from biking the Rail Trail to indulging in a day of pampering at a local spa. Hotels in the area are primarily budget-chain properties, so consider renting a vacation home instead. 

Lake Geneva welcomes travelers of all ages to enjoy some time on (or in!) the sparkling waters. For the best views, book a sightseeing boat tour or a brunch boat tour. Or, if you’re up for the thrill, sign up for a  ghost walk along the lake. Rest your head at the boutique Geneva Inn, which boasts lakeside views and luxe amenities. 

Casper is a beloved vacation destination for adrenaline enthusiasts for its whitewater rafting and rock climbing opps. However, you can also embark on a scenic drive on the Road to Yellowstone instead. Check into C’mon Inn Hotel and Suites, where relaxing hot tubs and beautiful indoor courtyards are waiting to welcome you.