25 Most Romantic Getaways in the USA – Part 2
Romantic Getaways in the West
Carmel-by-the-Sea
From Dhara of It’s Not About the Miles
If you are looking for a romantic getaway in California, consider a weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea. A charming little village in the Monterey Peninsula, Carmel-by-the-Sea offers a variety of activities in a really adorable setting.
Start your weekend with a romantic glass of wine and some fruit and cheese on the beautiful Carmel Beach, where you can sit on the sand and watch the sunset over the water.
Then, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of many world-class restaurants in the village before retiring to your room at one of the cute inns or bed-and-breakfasts in the village.
Carmel-by-the-Sea does not allow big chain hotels, so it’s dotted with really cozy places to stay, complete with window-boxes stuffed with flowers.
The next morning, enjoy a late breakfast, followed by a walk around the one square mile of Carmel village.
You will see wonderful art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutique stores, and lots of fun food and wine places. With its secret passageways, lovely courtyards, and great Spanish architecture, the village is perfect for strolling arm-in-arm. Then do a lazy laid back brunch–a Carmel-by-the-Sea must!
In the afternoon, drive out to Point Lobos State Reserve, a stunning oceanside park a scant few minutes from the village. Walk an oceanside trail, with the sea breeze ruffling your hair, and admire the wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean.
In the spring and summer, you’ll see tons of wildflowers. There are always seabirds to watch.
On your way back, step into the Carmel Mission, one of the most beautiful missions built by the Spanish missionaries. Back in the village, enjoy some wine tasting before dinner.
On your final morning in Carmel-by-the-Sea, take a walk around the village to look for the fairytale cottages scattered about.READ NEXT25+ Beautiful Small Towns in the USA
They are charming, historic and incredibly fun to find.
Or, consider booking a pampering treatment at the luxurious spa at the Bernardus Lodge in nearby Carmel Valley, or driving out to Big Sur and back on the beautiful Pacific Coast Highway.
End your stay with brunch in the village before heading back home, refreshed and recharged!
Park City
From Dan at Honeymoon Always
Located just 30 minutes from Salt Lake City is Park City, Utah, an incredibly romantic destination in the USA.
The area is best known for its mountain resorts with amazing slopes for skiing, snowboarding and all types of winter activities.
Depending on your expectations for romance, Park City has it all. You can experience adventures during the day, creating memories to look back on for years to come by going on a snowmobile ride or taking a real bobsled ride at the Olympic Park. After your adrenaline has been pumping, unwinds and fill yourself back up at one of the many delicious restaurants. READ NEXTUSA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US
The crisp winter air provides for a wonderfully romantic time together. You can enjoy some time resting your sore muscles in a hot tub or cuddled together around a fireplace.
Another great thing to do is to try out one of the spas in the area after a day of skiing to avoid tense muscles and to enjoy your time together. Surrounded by the snow-covered mountains, you don’t really have to try hard to create a romantic atmosphere. Just find a place to sit around a fire and look around at the beautiful scenery.
In the chance that you make your way to Park City when it is not wintertime, there is still plenty to do. You can find a lake to go stand up paddleboarding or fishing. You can go ziplining, enjoy a breathtaking hot air balloon ride or go on one of the alpine slides and coasters.
San Francisco
From Jyoti at Story at Every Corner
San Francisco is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and definitely one of the most romantic.
The first thing you’ll notice is San Francisco’s lovely cool weather. The air is so crisp it fills up the heart with love and happiness. There is so much to love about my home city of San Francisco, it’s a challenge to list a few of the most romantic aspects of the city.
Of course, most couples on a romantic getaway will want to start with San Francisco’s most famous landmark: enjoy the many vantage points and views of the world’s most recognizable bridge, each offering its unique perspective.READ NEXTThe Ultimate 3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary
For example, walk on the Golden Gate Bridge, picnic on Chrissy Field under the bridge, hike in Lands End state park, cruise on the Bay, walk around Treasure Island, or take a Segway Ride for many views of the bridge.
Not too far from the Golden Gate Bridge is the beautiful Palace of Fine Arts. It’s so calming to walk and admire the views or lie on the grassy hills, watch the swans and have a picnic.
In the midst of the busy city of San Francisco are the enormous Golden Gate Park and its many attractions such as the Japanese Tea Garden, San Francisco Botanical Garden, Conservatory of Flowers, San Francisco Academy of Sciences, de Young Museum, Lloyd Lake, the Dutch Windmill and the beach on the Pacific Ocean. One could spend hours relaxing at any of these beautiful sites, outdoors or indoors.
For the art lover in everyone, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a great way to spend a half or a full day enjoying modern artistic creations, and for a different kind of art appreciation, consider a memorable performance at the San Francisco Symphony.READ NEXTOne Day in New York: How to Sample NYC in a Day
Last but not least, no romantic getaway to San Francisco could be complete without talking about its food.
San Francisco has amazing restaurants in every cuisine. Even for vegans, there are several incredible restaurants and chefs that make magic happen. Some of our favorites are the Shizen Japanese, Herbivore, Hakkasan, Aster, Slanted Door, and Ghirardelli square for dessert.
Lake Tahoe
From Priyadarshini of Glorious Sunrise
Lake Tahoe is without any doubt a honeymooners’ paradise in all seasons. It is especially magical in winter with all the fresh powdery snow transforming it into a winter wonderland, a marvel in pure white. Lake Tahoe is nestled in the magnificent Sierra Nevada mountains and is on the border between California and Nevada.
Famous for its ski resorts and beaches, Lake Tahoe always has a good number of tourists. Watersports, snowmobiling, gondola rides, hiking around incredible trails like Tahoe Rim trail, balloon rides, cruises, skiing, and much more can be done in this amazing spot. Of course, its namesake lake is the most beautiful lake we have ever seen with clear clean waters. It is known to be the largest alpine lake in North America.
Lake Tahoe is divided into two parts, north and south, and both sections of Lake Tahoe are equally mesmerizing.
North has Donner Summit bridge, Hellman-Ehrman mansion, Sand Harbor State Park, Squaw Valley tram, museums, and more state parks. South Lake Tahoe has Pope beach, Zephyr Cove, Emerald Bay, Cave Rock State Park, Heavenly Gondola, Taylor Creek Visitor Cente, and many more attractions. When we visited Taylor Creek, the visitor center was closed. But we had a blast making snowmen from the pure white powder all around us. It is an unforgettable cherished memory for us.
Do not miss doing the Heavenly Gondola ride and enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding pine trees rising majestically into the sky.
Lower Eagle Falls is another place you should not skip. This spot is not just about the gorgeous falls, but the unbelievable scenery you can enjoy when you climb to the top. You can see the lake and beyond from here and you will simply want to stay there forever.
Oregon Coast
From Sarah of Discover the Pacific Northwest
With an abundance of rivers, lakes, waterfalls, and mountains plus dozens of quaint towns and hundreds of wineries, Oregon is a state made for romance. However, the most popular destination for a romantic getaway has to be the beautiful Oregon coast.
Oregon has 363 miles of stunning coastline to explore full of fabulous beaches, scenic harbors, iconic lighthouses, pristine parks, and soaring sand dunes. There are also dozens of charming seaside towns offering a romantic home base from which to explore.
Historic Astoria is the closest coastal town to Portland and offers plenty to do including an old waterfront trolley, a thriving arts community and lots of great restaurants and craft breweries. Seaside is a true beach town with a fabulous boardwalk and nearby Cannon Beach boasts the famous “Haystack Rock.”READ NEXT3 Days in Portland OR: The Ultimate Weekend in Portland Itinerary
Newport is probably the best known and most popular coastal town for good reason as it has an iconic main street full of great seafood restaurants and boutique shops plus a bustling fisherman’s wharf. And this just gets you to the central coast, the list of lovely towns continues as you go further south.
Some of the top sights to see are Ecola State Park, Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Oregon Dunes Recreational Area, Three Capes Scenic Drive, and the Tillamook Cheese Factory to name just a few, and they all make incredible stops for USA romantic getaways.
Of course, a romantic coastal getaway is not complete without a seafood feast or two. Our top tip is to stop at Kelly’s Brighton Marina to catch some crab and clams then pick up wood for a beach fire to cook it up and watch the sunset.
Catalina Island
From Megan of Bobo & Chichi
When you think of romantic places you might start thinking of island getaways. Little do people realize the US has it’s own romantic island getaways, including Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California.
The tiny town of Avalon is only 1 square mile and packed full of things to do for a romantic getaway with your lover including staying in the gorgeous Mt Ada Bed and Breakfast owned by the Wrigley (yes the gum family and former owner of Chicago Cubs) family overlooking the harbor and island to kayaking through the harbor, ziplining with ocean views, sailing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and an unforgettable movie theater in the beautifully restored Casino.
Get a private cabana at Descanso Beach Club where you can have drinks and food delivered to you right on the beach looking over the Pacific Ocean. Take a stroll to the botanical gardens and play a flirty game of mini-golf.
Besides being full of activities there’s also a great food and drink scene here.
The island really comes to life in the afternoon and at night when the day visitors leave and you feel like you have the town to yourself. With people or not there’s just something so romantic about the tiny little streets full of colorful little cottages that feel romantic.
Pacific Coast Highway
From Deborah of Tag Along Travel
Last summer my husband and I celebrated 25 years of marriage, and we wanted to take a memorable trip together to mark the occasion. We settled on a road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco along the Pacific Coast Highway, and it turned out to be the perfect romantic week-long getaway.
Our itinerary allowed for lots of time to admire the expansive coastal views and local wildlife.
What I like most about the PCH is that it’s suited to stopping a lot along the way. As someone who isn’t a fan of sitting in a car, this had major appeal.
Our stops included Morrow Bay, where we sampled delicious saltwater taffy while watching elephant seals sunning themselves near the shore.
We strolled along the beach in Hearst Park and enjoyed an afternoon cocktail and snack at Nepenthe in Big Sur. We rented bikes for afternoon rides in Monterey, San Francisco, and Sonoma. The pace and picturesque California setting was a terrific backdrop for celebrating our relationship and taking time to connect.
On the day of our anniversary, we stayed at the renowned Madonna Inn in San Luis Obispo.
This stop was near the start of our road trip, and it set the tone for the rest of our getaway. Madonna Inn is an experience, to say the least. Designed by Alex and Phyllis Madonna in the late 50s, the resort includes 110 unique theme rooms, the pinkest and most sparkly retro dining room, and a dreamy pool and spa, all surrounded by gorgeous gardens.
From the complimentary sparkling wine waiting for us in our room, to twirling around the big dance floor in the lounge under the hundreds of twinkling lights, we could not have chosen a more romantic and purely fun place to kickstart our romantic trip in the United States.
Willamette Valley
From Taima of Poor in a Private Plane
Cozying up next to the fireplace with that special someone, while sipping on a glass of one of the world’s best Pinot Noirs. Sounds like paradise, right?
Paradise exists and it is located in the Willamette Valley in Oregon. Located just outside of Portland the Willamette Valley is a great weekend destination to spend with that special someone.
McMinnville, OR which is located in the heart of the Willamette Valley is the perfect home base. With several wine tasting rooms to walk to and great restaurants, you will not be disappointed. If you are looking to explore some of the best wine in the Pacific Northwest there are several wineries and vineyards just a short drive away.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
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Start your day with breakfast at Community Plate located in McMinnville followed by a stroll through town. Then make your way to Stoller Family Estates where you can enjoy your tasting flights while admiring views of Mt. Hood. If you are looking for even more views check out White Rose Estate. On a clear day, you can get a view of all three peaks which is amazing.
After getting your fill of the beautiful views, Indulge in a vertical tasting at Adelsheim. If you are hungry now is a good time to check out Red Hill Market for a yummy lunch. After lunch, try a sparkling wine tasting flight at Argyle Winery.
After a day of wine tasting, you will be hungry. End your day with a meal at Gem Creole located in McMinnville. And if you still have something left in you enjoy a nightcap on the rooftop at McMenamins Hotel Oregon–the perfect end to a romantic getaway with your sweetheart.
Seattle
From Corinne of Reflections Enroute
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in the USA, look no further than Seattle!
It’s so easy to find romantic spots and activities in Seattle. Take your honey and explore the world-famous Pike Place Market where the fish are flying and the vendors tout the freshest and best the city has to offer. Around the corner is the very first Starbucks, so grab one of their traditional brown mugs and warm up in this cozy spot.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
Afterward, head to the Space Needle where the views are spectacular, but you can walk on a revolving glass floor or bungee jump from up top as well. Nothing is more romantic than taking a death-defying jump with your loved one.READ NEXT3 Days in Seattle: The Ultimate Weekend in Seattle Itinerary
Don’t forget to have lunch and visit one of the museums as well. My favorites are the Pop Culture Museum and the Chihuly Garden.
If you still have some time, head over to Glassworks park and take some photos, maybe rent a kayak, or even fly a kite. Then towards evening, you will want to get over to the Freemont, hipster part of the city, and eat dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants like the RockCreek Seafood and Spirits. You’ve never tasted oysters so good.
Finally, you will want to go to the Mox Boarding House Game Store and Bar. There you and your beau can pick out a game and either alone or with some new friends play any board game in the house while sipping on cocktails. What a great way to end your romantic day together.
Denver
From Gena at Gena’s Adventure
There is nothing better than surprising your significant one with a romantic getaway to Colorado!
I feel like winter is a perfect time to go: it’s snowy, but not too cold, so you are able not only pay visits to mountains and enjoy spectacular views, long night walks under the streetlights of Larimer Square, snowy streets and hot chocolate make it all worth it. Are you excited yet?
While you’re there, be sure to go ice skating hand-in-hand at Downtown River Rink followed by a hot chocolate together, try out couples snow tubing at Frisco Adventure Park, and to head up to Flagstaff Mountain to enjoy a gorgeous sunset with views of Denver.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
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Be sure to leave time in your itinerary for the romantic Royal Gorge Train–you can book a delicious dinner for two and make this one of the highlights of your romantic getaway!
Other must-have food experiences when visiting Denver include hitting up a wine tasting with fondue at Crú Food & Wine Bar to soak up their romantic vibes, getting a taste of Spain at The 9th Door Capitol Hill, and sharing a slice of famous Spring Fling cake at the best bakery in Denver (The Market at Larimer Square).
Don’t hesitate to surprise your significant one with a romantic getaway to Colorado in winter! Whether it’s about winter activities, romantic dining or unique experiences – this place has it all.
Coronado Island
From Julia at Small World This Is
Coronado Island is a great romantic weekend getaway that is right across the Coronado Bridge from San Diego. Spend the day lounging on the immaculate, gold-flecked Coronado Beach and upgrade your beach day by renting a luxury lounge chair from the Del Beach Services, which includes a meal and drink service.
After you’ve gotten a good dose of vitamin D, make sure to check out the historic Hotel Del Coronado property, which has been a getaway for many celebrities couples and you can follow suit by booking a room with a stunning sea view. The hotel also has a few onsite restaurants that are worth checking out for a romantic meal.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
Take a leisurely stroll a quarter-mile from the hotel and look for the sunken SS Monte Carlo, which you can spot during low tide.
Rent a bike or even better yet a surrey bike, with which you can explore the wide streets and beautiful homes of Coronado.
Wander around downtown Coronado, which is compact and has plenty of cute coffee shops, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and restaurants to stop by on Orange Avenue. Clayton’s Coffee Shop is a classic diner option that serves up American comfort food like banana bread French toast.
Driving to Coronado is a popular and scenic option, but the ferry that leaves from downtown San Diego is a great alternative and gives you a stunning view of the city’s skyline from the water. If you plan to take the ferry, the Coronado Ferry Building has plenty to do from fine dining to bike and kayak tours of the island.
Las Vegas
From Montoya of The Spring Break Family
If you and your honey are looking for a romantic destination, look no further than Las Vegas, NV.
The area is, of course, known for gambling and being “Sin City” but it is also a very romantic place to visit. It is the only city in the world where you can combine the romance of Rome, Paris, Venice, and more into one locale.
Perhaps the most romantic activity in the city is a private gondola ride in the Venetian/Palazzo hotel on the strip.
You and your boo can take a ride for two down the hotel’s canal while being beautifully serenaded by your gondolier. If you are in the mood for relaxation, you can book a couples massage in the spa of any of the large hotels on the strip. You can also spring for an in-room massage if you’d like something more private.
If skyline views are more your thing, you can get a killer view of the city from the High Roller at the Linq while sipping cocktails in a semi-private cabin. You and your partner can also scale the Eiffel Tower at the Paris Hotel and see the twinkling lights of the city from their observation deck.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
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Romantic dinners are also on the menu! Grab dinner at the Paris hotel on the 11th floor with jaw-dropping views of the strip. Or venture a little off the strip to Top of the World restaurant in the Stratosphere Hotel to get a bird’s eye view of the entire city.
The Barrymore near the Convention Center, Twist in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel or any of the restaurants in Wynn Hotel’s adult-only restaurants are also sure to spark a mood.
If the feeling of love overwhelms you during your trip, Las Vegas has several top-notch wedding venues that can do everything from a quickie wedding with Elvis (witness provided) to a full wedding complete with an audience and small orchestra. No worries if you didn’t pack a dress and tux! The city of romance can take care of that too!
From riding in a gondola (while being serenaded no less) to taking in a show, everything you need for a romantic getaway is located right in the heart of Las Vegas!
More Romantic Getaways in the USA
Chicago
From Patti of The Savvy Globetrotter
My hometown of Chicago is the perfect city for any couple looking for a romantic getaway in the USA. There are plenty of fun things for couples to do together both outdoors and indoors, during the day or at night, whether on a budget or looking to splurge.
Couples that enjoy being outdoors can spend some time in one of Chicago’s many parks including Millennium Park, which is home to Cloud Gate, the famous sculpture also known as The Bean.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
For a romantic stroll, couples can walk along the Chicago Riverwalk and/or lakefront to enjoy the beautiful city and water views.READ NEXT3 Days in Chicago: The Ultimate Weekend in Chicago Itinerary
With miles of beaches along the lake, couples can even take a long walk on the beach. For those that enjoy being on the water, you can go sailing, join one of the many cruises on Lake Michigan or take an architecture river cruise (the best way to enjoy the impressive architecture and city skyline).
For those interested in more cultural activities, Chicago is home to many excellent and well-known museums and cultural institutions. For a romantic night on the town, couples can watch a play or comedy show, listen to music at a jazz club or have dinner at one of Chicago’s many restaurants serving every type of cuisine.
My favorite romantic thing to do in Chicago is to have dinner or drinks at one of the many outdoor patios and rooftops while enjoying panoramic views of the beautiful skyline.
Chicago is an amazing city that has something for every couple no matter what your interests.
Honolulu
From Clemens of Traveller’s Archive
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in the United States, look no further than Honolulu.
Honolulu is the capital of Oahu and the entire US state of Hawaii. It is not only the commercial center of the island but is also the home of the world-famous Waikiki Beach. Every evening tourists make a pilgrimage to this beach to watch the orange-pink sunset–at least the ones who aren’t already there from soaking up the sun all day.https://2cde816bfc7716a95e889377f28d473a.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-37/html/container.html
If you are up for some very romance, come here for sunset or book yourself a table at one of the nice hotels that are located right on the beach. Imagine the perfect Hawai’i sunset and put some bubbles to it – sounds just perfect, right?READ NEXT25 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas
Waikiki has great waves for beginner surfers and is the perfect spot to try out a new skill with your beloved.
During the day it’s time to seek out viewpoints: drive up the serpentines along the Tantalus Highway to get a full picture of O’ahu and bring yourself some typical Hawaiian poke bowl which you can best get at Keeaumoku Seafood. This might just be the best lunch spot you ever visited!
Also, once in Honolulu, you can go on a little day trip to experience the beautiful North Shore, which is dotted with surf spots and home to some of the most amazing waves in the world. Make sure to get to the sleepy village of Haleiwa where you can celebrate your romantic getaway with some bubbles and a nice lunch at Haleiwa Joe’s or get yourself some takeaway and watch the surfers hit the waves at Waimea Bay before you secure yourself a sunset spot at the beach.
By: Kate Storm, Dec 2020, 25 Most Romantic Getaways in the USA, Our Escape Clause, recovered from: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/most-romantic-getaways-in-usa/
