Last updated on November 3rd, 2023
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Looking for exciting summer weekend getaways? Here are all the best summer weekend trips this year.
Summer is a thrilling time, and sometimes one vacation isn’t enough. So, what does that mean?! Summer Weekend Getaways!
You’ll learn about the best places for weekend trips in the US, from the East to the West.
After reading this post, you’ll have plenty of summer weekend getaway ideas. (Or simply visit them all!)
This post is all about summer weekend getaways.
This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.
Exciting Summer Weekend Getaways
Atlanta, Georgia
One of the best summer weekend getaways is to Atlanta, Georgia. This is one of those cities you have to visit at least once in your lifetime. Although, after that one time, you’ll be ready to come back.
Atlanta is a top choice for a weekend trip, full of southern charm, a lively culture, and good eats. Plus, there is something for everyone. So, whether you want to relax, try new foods, shop til you drop, or do all the touristy things, Atlanta has got you covered.
And make no mistake, the city offers an entirely different experience in the summer. Music festivals, fun with the kids at Six Flags (amusement & water park!), and Shooting the Hooch. So, plenty to do on your summer weekend trip.
Chicago, Illinois
While the Windy City is quite the adventure in the winter, I’d say the summer is by far the better time to visit… Sure, I may be a little biased here. But that wind is no joke in the colder months.
Believe it or not, you can hit several Chicago beaches. So, if you’re looking for a beach summer vacation, check.
Want to hop on a cruise without paying cruise prices? Chicago has them. Well, sort of. The city has several boat cruises on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River that offer a unique view of the city.
More fun activities in Chicago during the summer include music festivals, neighborhood festivals, outdoor eateries, outdoor movies, and kayaking on the Chicago River. With so much fun, you can’t miss spending a summer weekend in the Windy City.
Malibu, California
Next for a summer weekend getaway on the west coast: Malibu, California. As one of Southern California’s best beach towns, Malibu has over 200 days of sunshine. Do you need any more reasons to visit?!
With 22 miles of stunning beaches, Malibu is the place to visit for those who want to enjoy a beach. And because there are so many beaches, you could be on a different one every day. Malibu also has plenty of hiking trails, perfect for exercising and enjoying the outdoors while seeing gorgeous views.
You can even hike famous movie sets!
Besides all that outdoorsy play, Malibu has some of the best vineyards in the state. So, you can go wine tasting and then grab a bite at some nearby restaurants.
All in all, Malibu is the perfect summer weekend getaway for relaxation & nature.
Asheville, North Carolina
Another city on the list of east coast summer weekend getaways is Asheville, North Carolina. Asheville is perfect for anyone wanting to take in the outdoors. Waterfalls, hiking & biking trails, and activities on the river make this a fun spot for all travelers, couples, families, and even solo travelers.
Thrill seekers will love adventure-packed activities like plunging into the 60-foot-deep natural waterslide at Sliding Rock and ziplining through the trees at Navitat Canopy Adventures or Adventure Center Asheville. Or even going on a mountain bike tour.
Summer in Asheville is also fun of exciting cultural festivals, outdoor food events, and even music festivals. There are even fun historical spots to visit, like the Biltmore or some of the city’s popular museums.
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New Orleans, Louisiana
N’awlins, N’awlins, as some call it, is full of excitement, especially during the summer. Pool parties, seasonal summer menus, festivals, and several free events happen all summer!
Free activities include outdoor art markets, festivals, special summer events, and some museums on certain days with free entry. So, if you’re ballin’ on a budget, you can still have plenty of fun in New Orleans!
If the sun is a bit much for you, don’t worry, NOLA has several indoor sites to entertain you. So, you’ll want to check out spots like the aquarium and famous museums like WWII or any art museum.
Additionally, the steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River is so much fun. And there are several options; some come with dinner, drinks & jazz! I’ll take all of that!
New Orleans has so much fun; more than one weekend is definitely needed to enjoy everything. But that just means many more trips!
Seattle, Washington
Yes, Seattle has a reputation for being a rainy city, but the chance of rain drops drastically as soon as summer hits. Plus, the weather is nice and warm without being unbearably hot. So, if you’ve ever wanted to visit Seattle, this is the time.
This fantastic weather is perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, going to the beach, or kayaking in Lake Union. Or tour popular sites like the Space Needle or the Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP) if you want a break from the sun.
More must-stop spots in Seattle include Pike Place Market and Pioneer Square, and of course, you must visit at least 2 coffee shops!
Williamsburg, Virginia
Next on the list of best summer weekend getaways is Williamsburg, Virginia. This small town has a charm that makes you feel at peace when you arrive.
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the summer, like kayaking, canoeing, and hiking. You can even indulge in a lazy beach day.
And with all that fun in the sun, you’ll likely work up an appetite. So, grab a bite at some of the best spots in Williamsburg, like Fat Tuna, Food for Thought, and Opus 9 Steakhouse.
Williamsburg is a best-kept secret for those looking for a chill, relaxing summer weekend.
New York, New York
New York is another east coast summer weekend getaway you don’t want to miss. Gone with the winter, and in with the bustling summer days & fun summer nights.
With these long summer days, you can expect many summer outdoor events like concerts, festivals, markets, and other special events. There’s something to do just about every day, and you may even be able to catch some free activities.
Additionally, New York is known as one of the top food cities in the US, meaning you MUST try as many local restaurants as possible. If you don’t know where to start, I recommend taking a food tour.
New York is also home to iconic tourist sites such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times Square, etc. So, if you haven’t had an opportunity to visit these spots, this summer is the time to do it!
Miami, Florida
And last but not least is the stunning Miami, Florida. Like many other cities in Florida, Miami has beautiful weather almost all year round, making it a top contender for the best summer weekend getaways.
Additionally, the miles and miles of white, sandy beaches make travelers eager to visit yearly. Plus, with so many beaches, you’ll have your pick of water sports. So, this is an excellent spot for a quick beach vacation.
Besides beach days, you can also spend your weekend visiting art exhibits, eating some delicious grub, or catching a baseball game at LoanDepot Park.
Each of these fantastic cities has everything you need for a summer weekend getaway. And luckily for us, the summer is long. So, try 2 or 3 of the cities on this list!
Let me know in the comments which city you want to visit the most!
Wishing you safe & happy travels.
This post is all about summer weekend getaways.
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