Looking for a Romantic Getaway in the US? Here are the best spots to visit.
Whether it’s for Valentine’s day, your honeymoon, anniversary, or any other special occasion, we put together a list of the top romantic getaways in USA.
Solo travel has a time and place, but traveling with a S.O. can completely change how you see a destination. We both did a fair share of traveling before we met, but we’ve created a lot of amazing new memories visiting cities together (fights included).
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Last Updated: February 7, 2023
17 Best Romantic Getaways in USA You’ll Want to Take
1. New York, New York →
I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with NYC, but I can’t deny that there is a magic quality about the city. Just think about all the iconic romantic comedies set here, like When Harry Met Sally, Serendipity, and SATC.
There’s no place like it, and it has something for everyone, whether it’s food, culture, urban parks, etc.
Don’t Miss: Stroll through Central Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park, watch the sunset from Top of the Rock, watch a Broadway show, or go out to one of many Michelin starred restaurants.
I tried to narrow it down to 3, but New York just has too much!
Most Romantic Hotel in NYC: Hotel Royalton | Search for NYC Hotel Deals
Local Tip: Most people think that it’s expensive to explore NYC, but there are plenty of free things to do that are fun too.
See More: The Ultimate NYC Bucket List
2. BIg Sur, California →
Big Sur is our favorite coastal destination in the US. No matter how many times I visit, I still can’t get over how blue the water is.
Every time we do the drive, we end up stopping at every other pullout just to get a different view of the coast. Big Sur also has restaurants with amazing views, luxury hotels, and tons of hiking trails if you want to get active.
Don’t Miss: McWay Falls, Pfeiffer Beach, Bixby Bridge
Where to Stay: Ventana Big Sur | Search for Hotel Deals
Local Tip: Big Sur has become extremely popular over the past few years, so be sure to plan ahead and book hotels early. If you’re doing the drive, go North to South so you can see the coast. Plus, that makes it easier and less dangerous to pull out.
See More: 11 Things You Can’t Miss in Big Sur
3. Charleston, South Carolina →
If you’re looking for a Southern getaway, it doesn’t get more romantic than Charleston.
You can eat your way through tasty Southern cuisine, see the historic homes, and end your evening on a sunset cruise. You can even lounge at the nearby beaches, or better yet, stay at a beachfront resort.
Don’t Miss: Rainbow Row, Sullivan’s Island Beach, Angel Oak Tree
Most Romantic Hotel in Charleston: Wentworth Mansion | Search for Hotel Deals
Local Tip: If you love exploring the outdoors, you can kayak, hike, or go horseback riding too.
See More: 101 Things to Do in Charleston SC
4. Napa Valley, California →
Many years ago, Napa Valley was a dream destination of mine to have our wedding. I could just picture it set in the rolling vineyards. It’s absolutely picturesque and a great getaway for couples who love their wine.
You can also stop for food at amazing restaurants (like French Laundry if you can get reservations) or just hop from vineyard to vineyard to enjoy a tasting.
Where to Stay: Bann at Oak Knoll | Search for Napa Valley Hotels
Local Tip: This is our favorite winery because of how beautiful it is.
See More: 5 Wineries You Must Visit in Napa Valley
5. Maui, Hawaii →
There’s a good reason Maui makes our list of most romantic getaways in USA. It’s very popular among honeymooners, since you get amazing weather throughout the year.
There is also such a diverse landscape to explore. Depending on your mood you can go for a hike to a crater, snorkel along the coast, or relax at some of the best beaches in the world.
Don’t Miss: the Road to Hana (one of the best drives in the US), Haleakala National Park, Whale Watching
Where to Stay: Hotel Wailea | Search All Maui Hotels
See More: 19 Incredible Road to Hana Stops You Can’t Miss
6. Jackson Hole, Wyoming →
If you are a couple that loves the outdoors, Jackson Hole is the place for you. You are at the doorstep of Grand Teton National Park, which can keep you busy on its own, but you can also whitewater raft, UTV in the backcountry, and more.
If you need a relaxing day, you can head over to Granite Hot Springs for a soak, take in art at the local museum, or just enjoy the shops and restaurants downtown.
Don’t Miss: Grand Teton, Granite Hot Springs, National Elk Refuge
Most Romantic Hotel in Jackson: Hotel Jackson | Search for Jackson Hole Hotel Deals
Local Tip: If you get a chance, go on a plane tour to see the Tetons from the sky!
See More: 11 Incredible Things to do in Jackson Hole Wyoming
7. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is another one of those picturesque Southern towns. The city has 22 town squares, antebellum architecture that takes you back in time, and Spanish Moss lining a lot of the streets.
Don’t Miss: Jones Street often makes the list of the most beautiful streets in the USA and River Street is filled with shops and amazing food.
Where to Stay: The Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront | Search for Hotel Deals in Savannah
Local Tip: If you like something a little spooky, check out the local ghost tours.
See More: Recap of Our Endless Caravan
8. Carmel-by-the-Sea, California →
Carmel-by-the-Sea is a cute, tucked away town that makes for a perfect low-key getaway.
Dine at one of the amazing restaurants or check out all the small art galleries and boutiques. The best part of the town is that it doesn’t allow any big chain hotels, so it’s filled with cozy bed-and-breakfasts and inns.
Don’t Miss: Wine Walk. We also enjoyed having a wine and cheese picnic on the beach.
Where to Stay: La Playa Carmel | More Carmel-by-the-Sea Hotels
Local Tip: You can head inland to Carmel Valley to visit wineries too.
See More: Hofsas House Hotel
9. Oregon Coast, Oregon →
The Oregon Coast is easily one of our favorite drives in the US. We drove all 363 miles of it in one go, but have since been back to several destinations along the coast.
You can also explore the coastal towns like Astoria, see iconic lighthouses, or go sandboarding on the coastal dunes.
Don’t Miss: Cannon Beach, Crabbing at Nehalem Bay or just eat the freshest crabs, Samuel H Boardman.
Where to Stay: Surfsand Resort | Search Oregon Coast Hotels
Local Tip: If you want to see Thor’s Well, make sure you go at the right time of day.
See More: Your Ultimate Oregon Coast Road Trip with All the Best Stops
10. Las Vegas, Nevada →
This is our current home base, and we get why most people don’t think of it as a romantic city. It’s had a long history of being known as Sin City with all its gambling and partying, but the city has definitely changed over the years.
You can go as extravagant as you want with celebrity chefs and fine dining, travel around the world in a day visiting Rome, Paris, and Venice, or do something more low-key and explore amazing outdoor spots.
Don’t Miss: Murals in Downtown Vegas, Bazaar Meats, Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area.
Most Romantic Hotel in Vegas: The Palazzo | See All Las Vegas Hotels
See More: 15 Romantic Things to do for Couples in Las Vegas
11. Asheville, North Carolina →
Asheville one of the most romantic getaways in USA for couples who love the outdoors, want to indulge in a relaxing spa weekend, or travel to eat. In town, you’ll find yourself surrounded by amazing coffee, restaurants, shops, and murals.
Don’t Miss: The Biltmore, River Arts District, and the nearby hikes
Where to Stay: Grand Bohemian Hotel | Search Asheville Hotels
Local Tip: Foodies can rejoice at the food selection in town.
See More: The Ultimate Asheville Bucket List
12. San Diego, California →
San Diego always holds fond memories for us. It’s still our favorite city we’ve lived in. We talk about moving back someday. In the meantime, it makes one of the best romantic getaways in the US especially if you’re looking for sun, sand, and tacos. There are endless beaches to explore, nearby hiking, and plenty of delicious food.
Don’t Miss: Sunset Cliffs, Torrey Pines, Scripps Pier.
Most Romantic Place to Stay in San Diego: Hotel del Coronado | San Diego Hotel Deals
Local Tip: Love beer? San Diego has A TON of breweries. For a really unique brewery tour, head over to White Labs to see how different strains of yeast can completely change the taste of the same beer.
See More: Your Ultimate San Diego Bucket List
13. Portland, Oregon →
Portland is foodie heaven. We have friends who visit all the time to fill their bellies every few months. There are great options for casual spots and fine dining restaurants. It’s also a PNW wonderland with all the lush green hikes to waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge.
Don’t Miss: Powell’s Books, View from Pittock Mansion on a clear day, Smith’s Teamaker tea flights.
Where to Stay: Kimpton Portland | Portland Hotel Deals
Local Tip: Love beer? San Diego has A TON of breweries. For a really unique brewery tour, head over to White Labs to see how different strains of yeast can completely change the taste of the same beer.
See More: 49 Best Place to Eat in Portland
14. Portland, Maine →
Heading to the opposite coast and to the other Portland (Did you know this was the original Portland?), you’ll find yourself surrounded by amazing lobster, beautiful coastal views, and beautiful lighthouses.
Where to Stay: Inn at Diamond Cove | Search for Portland Hotels
See More: 5 Beautiful Lighthouses in Portland ME
15. Key West, Florida →
This past summer was the first time we visited the Florida Keys. It had such a Caribbean Island vibe, it’s hard to believe you’re still in the US. It’s the perfect getaway for romantic strolls through historic streets, eating in cute cafes, and enjoying water sports.
Don’t Miss: Cruisin Tikis Sunset Tour, Cuban Coffee Queen, Southernmost Point Buoy
Where to Stay: Ocean Key Resort & Spa | Search for Key West Hotels
See More: 7+ Unforgettable Things to Do in Key West Florida
16. New Orleans, Louisiana →
New Orleans is a charming city where you can walk around exploring the historic streets, listen to amazing live music, or dance the night away on the Mississippi River. Want to step up your romance game? Take your SO on a gondola ride on the bayou.
Don’t Miss: Cafe du Monde Beignets, City Park, Whitney Plantation
Where to Stay: Maison de la Luz | Search for Other New Orleans Hotels
Local Tip: Be sure to try crawfish while you’re there!
See More: How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in New Orleans
17. Austin, Texas →
Take a romantic stroll along Austin’s riverwalk, stop by one of the many swimming holes close to town, and indulge in rich and tasty Southern food in Austin.
Austin also offers a little bit of everything, which makes it the perfect getaway throughout the year. If you’re into festivals, they also have some of the best in the country.
Don’t Miss: Barton Creek Greenbelt, Lady Bird Lake, Congress Ave Bridge Bat Flight.
Where to Stay: Hotel Saint Cecilia | More Austin Hotel Deals
Local Tip: If you’re hoping to see the bats, be sure to visit in the summer. The views are better from the water than the bridge.
See More: The Ultimate Austin Bucket List
BONUS: Lake Tahoe, Nevada
We had seen photos of Lake Tahoe for years and were still in awe of how clear it was when we first laid eyes on it. It’s an amazing getaway that changes throughout the year.
Visit in the winter to hit the slopes, or stop by in the summer for water sports, hiking, balloon rides and more.
Don’t Miss: Emerald Bay State Park, Heavenly Ski Resort, Sand Harbor Beach
Most Romantic Hotel in Tahoe: The Ritz-Carlton | More Lake Tahoe Hotels
Local Tip: The lake is big and broken up into North and South. It’s usually easiest to plan your activities around one area.
Map of the Best Romantic Getaways in the USA
More Romantic Getaways in USA
- Aspen, Colorado
- Lake Tahoe, California
- Park City, Utah
- Santa Barbara, California
- Seattle, Washington + 15 Best Day Trips from Seattle
- San Luis Obispo, California
- San Francisco, California
Essential Tips for Taking a Couples Trip
We notice that we tend to fight more during trips since travel takes you outside of your normal routine and comfort zone. Though fighting can be perfectly healthy, here are a few tips that might make your trip a little smoother.
- Start with a budget – when you’re doing your research, make sure you’re only looking into places that fit into the budget to whoever makes less money. That way there isn’t extra pressure to spend money you don’t have or no one’s pride gets hurt.
- Decide together the vibe you’re going for. Is it a relaxing trip or one that you want to pack in a lot to do? Do you want to go outdoors or be in the city? If you like different types of activities, try to include ones that will fit both your interests.
- Try something new and adventurous – Not only will you bond over the. new experience, but it also can help boost adrenaline and oxytocin.
- Carve out some alone time especially if you’re an introvert.
- Remember the why. Don’t get caught up on the little things, and remember the reason why you took the trip in the first place. You don’t want to go back home regretting that you spent half your time in a fight.
Can you think of any other romantic getaways in the USA? Where did you go on your honeymoon or where would you like to go?
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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes” – M. Proust
Esther + Jacob
Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.
Follow on Instagram (E + J), YouTube, TikTok, and Pinterest.