9 Most Romantic Getaways in the United States
The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Most Romantic Getaways in the United States
Looking to take a romantic getaway in the United States for you and your special someone? This guide of the 9 most romantic getaways in the United States has everything you need to help you start planning the vacation of your dreams.
Everything You Need to Know To Plan a Trip to The 9 Most Romantic Getaways in the United States.
There is no lack of romantic getaways in the United States. From snow-capped mountains to beautiful deserts, there’s a lot to choose from when trying to pick a magical destination for you and your sweetheart.
That’s why I’ve put together this list of the 9 most romantic getaways in the United States. Use this list to help you and your hunny find the best romantic holiday that suits you. I’ve included cost and duration as well as activities tailored to your specific interests. This list includes everything you need to know to plan the romantic getaway you’ll remember for a lifetime.
1. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Picture yourself and your partner standing hand in hand, barefoot on a white sandy beach. To one side is an endless ocean, on the other side is a magnificent cliff flaunting a charming lighthouse. If that isn’t romantic, I don’t know what is.
What to do in Martha’s Vineyard
City Dwellers: Spend a romantic day In Edgartown strolling down red-brick pavements and gazing into art gallery windows. Then enjoy a date night tearing it up at The Wharf, one of the many bars near the square.
Outdoor Adventurers: Explore an island hike, swim in the ocean or a freshwater pond, or kayak through Long Point Wildlife Refuge. Then head over to the Aquinnah Cliffs to see one of the prettiest damn sunsets you have ever seen.
Relaxation Junkies: Book a room for two at a charming inn or cottage in the 300-year old town of Menemsha. Relax to the point of completely forgetting you’ve gotta be back at work on Monday while sharing a bottle of bubbly and starring out at ocean or garden views.
Historical Enthusiasts: Go on an adventure around the island and visit all five of the Martha Vineyard lighthouses and attached museums. Each lighthouse is more than a hundred years old!
Cinephile Travelers: One of Hollywood’s most iconic horror flicks was filmed on this island. You can spot familiar scenes from Steven Speilberg’s 1974 classic, Jaws in Menemsha, Edgartown, and on the Joseph A Sylvia State Beach.
Here are a few more things to do in Martha’s Vineyard!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
If you’re a fast-paced couple that likes to see the sights and skedaddle, you can knock out this quick romantic getaway in a day. But, if you like to take it slow for maximum unwinding, feel free to extend your trip to 3-5 days.
Average Cost to Visit Martha’s Vineyard
According to Budget Your Trip, Martha’s Vineyard costs an average of $193 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Martha’s Vineyard.
2. New York City, New York
Live out your rom-com fantasy in The City of Dreams. Whether you and your hunny love the classic romantic antics like taking a rowboat out for a spin in Central Park, would rather get dressed up and go out for a delicious meal in a fancy restaurant in Manhattan, or want to get your kink on at The Museum of Sex, there’s something for everyone in this Fun City.
What to do in New York City
City Dwellers: Take your loved one on a romantic getaway to Greenwich Village. Enjoy a stroll on cobblestone streets past historic brownstones and make your way to Bleecker Street where you’ll grab a bite to eat and a pint to drink.
Outdoor Adventurers: See the New York City skyline from a unique perspective on a kayak floating along the Hudson River. The best part? You can do it for free! Pier 96 offers free kayak rentals on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Relaxation Junkies: Enjoy the epitome of relaxation with your better half inside an AIRE Ancient Bath. Here you will soak in a tub inspired by the ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman civilizations.
Historical Enthusiasts: Embrace the macabre by visiting the historic cemeteries of New York City. Maybe not your average activity for a romantic getaway, but for those who love a bit of history, and maybe even a spooky ghost story, taking a stroll through a graveyard almost 400 years old can make for a chillingly great time.
Cinephile Travelers: So many movies and television shows have been filmed in New York that it’s hard not to come across filming sites in the Big City. With literally hundreds of film spots to find, you’re better off booking a tour like one of these to guide you through the experience.
Here are a few more things to do in New York City!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
With so much to do and see in New York, you’re gonna need at least 4-5 days to enjoy this long romantic holiday.
Average Cost to Visit New York City
According to Budget Your Trip, New York City costs an average of $238 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to New York City.
3. Kauai, Hawaii
My husband and I took our honeymoon in Scotland and, for a while, that reigned champion as my husband’s all-time favorite trip. Then we went to Kauai.
There’s a reason they call this the Garden Isle of Hawaii, Kauai is spectacularly gorgeous in any direction you look. The rugged mountains, endless rainbows, and shimmering sands are perfect to set the tone for a truly romantic getaway.
What to do in Kauai
City Dwellers: You’re not going to find a lot of city on this island. For a real city, you’re better off on Maui or Oahu. Still, you will find your fair share of boutiques, farmers’ markets, and food trucks in the center of most of the island towns.
Outdoor Adventurers: Kauai is an outdoor adventurer’s paradise. Enjoy awesome hikes in the mountains, surf off the coast, take one of many ATV tours through privately owned jungles, or tube through historic sugar cane canals. And that’s a short list compared to all the outdoor adventures the island has to offer.
Relaxation Junkies: It is literally impossible not to relax on this island. While you could book a massage at a spa, chilling in a hammock by the beach and listening to the waves splash against the rocks while you snuggle will do the trick just fine.
Historical Enthusiasts: Kauai has a fascinating history. My favorite way to learn about the island was to talk to the locals. Most people are more than happy to share a story or two about the island’s amazing history.
Cinephile Travelers: I love visiting film locations while traveling, so imagine my excitement when I was on an ATV tour with Kipu Ranch Adventures and they pointed out that not just one, but four films were shot on their property. Check out this tour to see filming locations for George of the Jungle, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jurassic Park, and Tropic Thunder.
Here are a few more things to do in Kauai!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
You’ll want to make sure you plan a long holiday for this romantic getaway. My husband and I spent 8 days in Kauai last year and it still didn’t feel like enough time. Most people recommend at least 5 days for this romantic adventure.
Average Cost to Visit Kauai
According to Budget Your Trip, Kauai costs an average of $152 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Kauai, Hawaii.
4. Charleston, South Carolina
If being in the city where they filmed one of the most romantic movies of all time, The Notebook, doesn’t do it for you, I don’t know what will. The South is known for its romantic atmosphere, which is part of what makes Charleston one of the 9 most romantic getaways in the United States.
What to do in Charleston
City Dwellers: Check out the Charleston City Market. Here you’ll find locally made food, gifts, and handmade goods. On the weekend, the city hosts a Night Market and live entertainers join the vendors for an extra good time.
Outdoor Adventurers: Go for an adventure out on the open sea! Take a guided boat tour or seize the day and learn the ropes for yourself aboard a catamaran.
Relaxation Junkies: Pack a picnic, lay out a towel, and bring a bottle of champagne as you spend a relaxing day together on Folly Beach. Cuddle in the sun and as you watch the clouds pass by in the sky.
Historical Enthusiasts: Take a stroll through the gardens of Boone Hall Plantation. This plantation is more than 300 years old and still continues to grow crops! You can also tour the mansion and the surrounding area.
Cinephile Travelers: As previously mentioned, this romantic getaway is home to many filming locations for Nick Cassavetes’ 2004 romance, The Notebook. You can find filming locations for this flick at Boone Hall Plantation, Cypress Gardens, the College of Charleston, and more.
Here are a few more things to do in Charleston!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
Depending on how much time you have available, Charleston can be either a quick romantic getaway over an adventurous weekend or a long romantic holiday over the course of a week.
Average Cost to Visit Charleston
According to Budget Your Trip, Charleston costs an average of $136 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Charleston.
5. Sedona, Arizona
Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or a city-dwelling traveler, Sedona is great for both types of couples. Go camping under the towering red walls of Cathedral Rock, book a stay in a luxury resort, or go for something in the middle by booking an Airbnb. No matter your style, the mystical vortex of Sedona will positively romance your socks off.
What to do in Sedona
City Dwellers: In Uptown Sedona you’ll stroll past locally-owned restaurants, art galleries, and crystal shops. If you get a sweet tooth you absolutely must stop by Sedona Fudge Factory where you can buy melt-in-your-mouth-and-curl-your-toes-delicious fudge.
Outdoor Adventurers: There are more than 200 trails for hikers and mountain bikers to enjoy. And if that doesn’t float your boat, take your pick of activities from jeep tours, ATV tours, horseback riding, helicopter adventures, swimming holes, and more.
Relaxation Junkies: Sedona is known for being a mystical vortex, so it attracts wellness junkies of many kinds. Book a session at one of Sedona’s many spas, join a yoga group at the top of the Airport Mesa hiking trail, or become more mindful inside the Sedona Meditation Center.
Historical Enthusiasts: Consider checking out Homolovi State Park where archaeologists work on-site to research Hopi migration to the Sedona area between 1200 and 1300.
Cinephile Travelers: During the golden age of Western film, the Arizona film industry was booming. Many classic westerns were filmed in and around Sedona from 1930-1960, including Riders of the Purple Sage, Desert Fury, and The Outlaw’s Daughter.
Here are a few more things to do in Sedona!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
You can see most of Sedona in a day or two, but if you’re making your way out west, you might as well see the Grand Canyon while you’re at it. If that’s the case, then make sure to book 3-5 days total.
Average Cost to Visit Sedona
According to Budget Your Trip, Sedona costs an average of $133 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Sedona.
Need help deciding what to pack for your Sedona trip? Utilize my Arizona Packing List Essentials for Any Time of Year.
6. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is the second oldest city in the United States and the oldest capital, having been founded in 1607. Aside from its history, Santa Fe is also known for its vibrant and romantic art scene. No wonder this western town is one of the 9 most romantic getaways in the United States.
What to do in Santa Fe
City Dwellers: Enjoy a fun date by heading over to the impossible-to-explain, over-the-top, out-of-this-world, interactive art installation called Meow Wolf.
Outdoor Adventurers: Despite being in the middle of the desert, Santa Fe offers some prime skiing from late fall to early spring. Ski Santa Fe hosts 86 runs and over 660 acres of totally awesome terrain.
Relaxation Junkies: For the ultimate romantic relaxation experience, dip on over to Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-inspired hot springs resort.
Historical Enthusiasts: See the remnants of cave dwellings lived in by the Pueblo ancestors in the Bandelier National Monument.
Cinephile Travelers: Being the arts district that it is, it’s no surprise that hundreds of movies have been filmed in Santa Fe. Bonanza Creek Ranch is just one of many locations that has been the backdrop to dozens of films, including Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, Easy Rider, and 3:10 to Yuma.
Here are a few more things to do in Santa Fe!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
While any destination could easily turn into a long romantic holiday, common consensus is that only a few days are needed in Sante Fe if you desire a quick romantic getaway.
Average Cost to Visit Santa Fe
According to Budget Your Trip, Santa Fe costs an average of $127 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Santa Fe.
In addition to being one of the most romantic cities in the U.S., Santa Fe is also one of the best slow travel destinations in the world! To see what other destinations made the cut, check out my guide to the Best Slow Travel Destinations.
7. Glacier National Park, Montana
Imagine snuggling with your partner under a cozy blanket next to a fire pit while sipping a hot mug of cocoa with marshmallows. You look up into the night sky and can see what looks like millions of stars. That’s the type of romantic experience you can get from booking a cabin in the woods at Glacier National Park.
What to do in Glacier National Park
City Dwellers: Glacier is a national park, so there’s not a lot of city going on here. However, if you’re craving a bit of civilization, consider visiting Whitefish, a town nearby Glacier. There’s plenty to do in this charming little town. Feel free to enjoy a meal at a local eatery, stroll through one of the town’s parks, or check out a few local boutiques.
Outdoor Adventurers: At Glacier National Park, you will find yourself surrounded by stunning jagged mountain peaks, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. Go on a romantic drive on Going-To-The-Sun Road, one of the most breathtaking drives in the country. Make a few stops along the way to explore the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Relaxation Junkies: Find yourself a cozy retreat on Airbnb and spend a romantic getaway relaxing with your hunny in a cabin in the woods.
Historical Enthusiasts: Visit the Belly River Ranger Station Historic District where several historic structures still stand, including the park’s original ranger station.
Cinephile Travelers: At the St. Mary Entrance to the park you might see a scene that looks familiar. The stone bridge was featured in the Robert Zemeckis’ 1994 classic, Forrest Gump, during the running across America sequence.
Here are a few more things to do in Glacier National Park!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
You and your love will only need 2-3 days for this quick romantic getaway.
Average Cost to Visit
According to Budget Your Trip, Glacier National Park costs an average of $102 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Glacier National Park.
8. Asheville, North Carolina
This romantic getaway is a great choice for couples who can’t decide whether they want to visit a city or connect with the great outdoors.
What to do in Asheville
City Dwellers: For those who love the city, Asheville provides a vibrant art scene, an amazing selection of craft beer, and one of the first indoor shopping malls in the country, Grove Arcade.
Outdoor Adventurers: For nature lovers, visit the Botanical Gardens At Asheville, often described as one of the most beautiful places in the United States.
Relaxation Junkies: Salt therapy has been used for thousands of years to improve wellbeing, including reducing stress and improving breathing and digestion. In the Asheville Salt Cave you can even book a couple’s massage to make this an extra romantic getaway.
Historical Enthusiasts: Book a Behind-The-Scenes Tour of the Biltmore House— America’s largest estate. On this tour you’ll get to experience what life was like for the servants who kept Geroge W. Vanderbilt’s home.
Cinephile Travelers: The Biltmore Estate has made it’s way into many Hollywood flicks, including The Last of the Mohicans, Richie Rich, and Forrest Gump.
Here are a few more things to do in Asheville!
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
To explore both the city and the surrounding national parks, be sure to book about three days for this quick romantic getaway.
Average Cost to Visit
According to Budget Your Trip, Asheville costs an average of $106 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Asheville.
9. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Not only is Eureka Springs a quaint Victorian town (which ambiance alone helps to heat up the romance), but romance is one of the top things this romantic getaway is known for.
What to do in Eureka Springs
City Dwellers: Wander around downtown and admire the historic Victorian buildings as you step in and out of art galleries and boutiques dotted along the main streets.
Outdoor Adventurers: Explore the 1610 acres of Lake Leatherwood City Park and gaze with your sweetheart at the sparkling waters of the 85-acre spring-fed lake.
Relaxation Junkies: Book a couples massage for you and your lover at the finest day spa in the Northwest Arkansas region, the New Moon Spa.
Historical Enthusiasts: Visit one of the oldest (and most haunted) buildings in Eureka Springs, the Cresent Hotel. From hotel to college to hospital then back to hotel, this building houses some of Eureka Springs’ most interesting history.
Cinephile Travelers: Cameron Crowe’s 2005 romantic-comedy Elizabethtown had a few fleeting scenes filmed in Eureka Springs. Both the Christ of the Ozarks statue and a concrete T-Rex in town were featured in this film.
Quick Romantic Getaway or Long Romantic Holiday?
This is a quick romantic getaway that you and your significant other can do in just 2-3 days.
Average Cost to Visit
According to Budget Your Trip, Eureka Springs costs an average of $113 per person per day.
Book a trip for two to Eureka Springs.
Romantic Getaways In the United States
You know that old saying, “Absence makes the heart grow fonder”? Well, I think travel makes the heart grow fonder. When you travel with your partner and create new memories together, you can’t help but fall even more in love.
Do you like this list of romantic getaways in the United States? Did it inspire you to book a trip with your significant other? If so, you’re gonna have an absolute blast enjoying new experiences and exploring new places together!
What romantic getaway are you going to go on next?
Planning a trip soon?
Here are a few helpful services:
Booking.com | Find a comfy place to lay your head after a full day of adventuring.
Vrbo | If you’re looking for a more homey vibe, these rental homes might do the trick.
Expedia | Whether you’re looking for some wheels or a flight, you can find a way to get to your destination here.
Get Your Guide | Find local attractions and tours and book tickets to your excursions.
TSA | If you’re flying, check out the TSA page to make sure that you pack to TSA regulations.
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