Are you and your sweetheart in search of a new locale for your next weekend vacation? Even if you have a few favorite places already, you’d do well to give something new a try every once in a while. Adventures to someplace a bit out of the ordinary will help to keep your relationship fun and exciting! Consider one of these 10 vacation spots for your next time away from the routine.
Paradise Valley, Arizona
Paradise Valley located in Arizona is an amazingly romantic place for a couples’ getaway. There are several top-notch spas where you and your loved one can get pampered. In Scottsdale, you can go through the historic downtown area and sample some of the varieties of fare, perfect if you’re foodies. There are golf courses if you want to get exercise and have a friendly competition. If you’re more into the fast-paced activities, you might take your car or truck into the backcountry to enjoy an off-road tour of the desert.
Smoky Mountains, Tennessee
Great Smoky Mountains National Park forms the centerpiece of this Appalachian mountain setting, a unique biosphere with abundant water, scenic drive, wildlife, and greenery. Beguiling and romantic, the mist-filled valleys and rolling ridges from wave after wave of scenery. In the foothills are hundreds of luxury vacation Gatlinburg cabins, with gourmet kitchens, ensuite Jacuzzis, a pool table, and many other games, and a hot tub on the deck – all this with the magical Smokies all around. If you want to a trip to town, Gatlinburg offers a bustling small town packed with attractions, shopping, dining, music, and mountain coaster and lift rides. And then home to the cabin for a candlelight meal by the fireplace.
Hood River, Oregon
Hood River of Oregon lies deep in the midst of picturesque mountains. If you’re all about the sporting life, you might take to the Columbia River where Hood River is located. You’ll remember the view of the Columbia River Gorge. Take out a kayak on the river, or opt for a stand-up paddleboard or windsurf board. If you’re up for biking, join up with a bike tour where you can stop at vineyards and sample some wine. You even can take a train through the mountains on the Mount Hood Railroad for a truly romantic once-in-a-lifetime kind of activity.
Sonoma, California
This county in Northern California has a huge array of wineries. Considered the less-refined, more rustic version of Napa Valley, it features hills that extend to the Sonoma Mountains and lead to the Pacific shore. If you want to stay in a bustling city, Santa Rosa is great with its museums, restaurants, and boutiques. Glen Ellen is better if you’re looking for small-town flair. If you visit between November and May it’s quieter and you’re more likely to get lower rates on lodging and purchases. And wherever you dash away for the weekend, especially if it’s crowded, get a rapid test for the virus before you go so you can show up anywhere with a clean bill of health.
Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island is a well-kept secret, part of the barrier islands off the Atlantic coast of Florida. It’s a perfect destination for a more quiet, intimate experience with stunning views. You’ll feel like you’re in your own nature paradise where you can go horseback riding at sunrise or sunset, cruise on a 40-foot yacht, or ride bicycles together on the Amelia Island Trail, part of Amelia Island State Park. Even though it’s laid back, the island hosts luxury resorts where you can be pampered after a long day gallivanting with your partner.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Want a low-key vacation with your sweetie in a casual atmosphere where you might get to see celebrities? That’s only one benefit of visiting Cape Cod. This gorgeous tourist spot has some of the best seafood restaurants, bed-and-breakfast lodging, and beach hangouts. If you’re looking to go to the beach, July and August are the prime time, but you’ll be shelling out a bit more money. If you want to curl up and have some cozy time with your loved one in front of the fire by the ocean AND save some money, make a trip sometime between December and March, although many of the shops and restaurants will be closed then.
Sullivan Catskills, New York
This is the home of the resort that inspired the film Dirty Dancing, so it’s already got that going for it. Besides romantic movie inspiration, this region features a historic inn, The Arnold House, that was built in 1851. Have some fun together in the vintage bowling alley, go for a hike, and lounge by the lake. Since cell phone service is limited, you’ll just have to disconnect and spend quality time in this beautiful setting.
Savannah, Georgia
If you and your partner are history buffs you’ll love what Savannah has to offer. There are 22 verdant squares to visit in the Historic District which includes the Girl Scouts’ founder’s home, Bonaventure Cemetery where you can stroll along a path with Spanish moss, and the Mercer Williams House. Like to go shopping together for random finds? Then stop by the City Market for some souvenirs. You even might like to join a guided tour of this city to learn more about its history that spans back to 1733.
Lanai, Hawaii
You’ll see a great deal of untouched nature on this exclusive Hawaiian island. There are beautiful underwater reefs off of the remote beaches and rock formations that will have you in awe. If you’re the adventuring sort, rent an off-road vehicle to Munro Trail and Shipwreck Beach so you can explore for a while. There’s also horseback riding, deep-sea fishing, and lawn bowling for you to enjoy. After a day in the sun, relax at a hotel ranging from posh to modest – they’ll all provide top-notch service and delicious cuisine in a place that’s made for solitude and couples.
Canton, Ohio
The Villa Suites at Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, Ohio is simply mesmerizing. You can stay in a multi-bedroom farmhouse or one of the six villas that have Tuscan-style suites. Enjoy relaxing by the lake or around a stone fireplace, as well as having access to wine tastings and continental breakfast every day. The Villa Suites also offers cooking classes around a theme, ideal if food is your language of love.
