Romantic weekend getaways for couples

A couple’s weekend is the perfect way to take some time out for each other. These romantic weekend getaways for couples will inspire you to make a quick escape from daily life that is filled with passion and romance.

If I asked you to think of romance, chances are you defaulted to thoughts of candlelight and dinner.

But romance is so much more than that. It’s about the feeling of excitement and mystery. It’s about anticipation and novelty.

One of the best ways to achieve this feeling is by trying new things – new places.

And you don’t have to go on a week long vacation to get the benefits – a simple couple’s weekend is a great way to get started.

Here you’ll find some inspiring romantic destinations across the U.S.A: from New York to Leavenworth.

Give you and your husband the gift of a fun, romantic weekend getaway to one of these top locations.

(Want an affordable weekend option? Try Cheap weekend getaways for couples.)

Romantic weekend getaways in the city

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

If you’re looking for romantic weekend getaways that are fast-paced and exciting, then Derek Hartman from Robe Trotting suggests Philadelphia, PA be right at the top of your list.

Most people think of Philadelphia as The City of Brotherly Love (and Sisterly Affection). However, there are lots of other ways to show love in Philadelphia.

From beautiful parks, vivid murals, a delicious food scene and plenty of activities, the city offers much to love.

Philadelphia is ideal for a romantic weekend getaway, and here are some ways to fall in love with the city.

Visit LOVE Park (at 15th and Arch Street) to take a picture with Robert Indiana’s famous Love sculpture. This beautiful landmark is the perfect place to view Benjamin Franklin Parkway and gaze at The Philadelphia Art Museum.

Across the street, you will see the ornate City Hall Building and Dillworth Park located at Broad and Market Streets. It’s a short walk from Love Park and a great place to people watch and share a coffee.

In the summer months, there is a jumping water fountain and in the winter there is an ice skating rink and Christmas Market.

While visiting City Hall, couples can ride the elevator to the City Hall Observation Deck for 360-degree views of the city. You can steal a kiss at the top of the city, just underneath the famous statue of William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania.

Philly is a food city, so try some local favorites throughout the weekend.

Don’t miss a soft pretzel from Philadelphia Pretzel Factory, Italian water ice in the East Passyunk neighborhood, or tomato pie from one of the Italian bakeries in South Philadelphia.

Also, book a table at any number of restaurants in midtown.

The 13th street corridor has some of the country’s best restaurants and one of the most romantic is Double Knot (120 S. 13th Street). Double Knot is an all-day Japanese restaurant with cozy tables and a 10-course chef’s special.

For a unique outing, visit Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, located at 1020 South Street. The Magic Gardens are a gallery of tiled mosaic art. This visionary exhibit is open year-round and includes indoor and outdoor exhibits spanning three city lots.

Philadelphia is a great city full of excitement and love for all. From sports teams to history, the city is full of passion. This makes it a perfect place for a romantic weekend getaway with someone you’re passionate about.

Chicago, Illinois

Shannon from wellella has gone to Chicago many times – flights there are inexpensive and there’s always a lot to do and see. Here’s what she suggests for a romantic weekend getaway in the Midwest.

Start your weekend right by checking into the elegant and quiet Buckingham Hotel for breathtaking views of the city and lake from the 40th floor. There are only 21 rooms so book well in advance!

Its downtown location is close to everything including world-class museums, metro stations, and of course fresh donuts and coffee.

You and your partner can unwind over a hot cup of joe while you take in the hustle and bustle of the Windy City.

You could spend hours (or days) getting lost together in the nearby Art Institute of Chicago, which houses famous American paintings such as Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” and an excellent collection of French impressionist works by Degas, Monet, Renoir, and Seurat.

On a sunny day, take a romantic stroll through the beautiful gardens of Grant Park, located right next to the art museum and Lake Michigan.

For music fans, take an Uber to the Blues Heaven Foundation, a hidden gem inside the former Chess Records recording studio where Willie Dixon’s grandson will guide you through the story of the Chicago blues.

He may even let you play his grandfather’s bass or tell you a funny story about Chuck Berry’s romantic life.

Later, you can stop by Buddy Guy’s Legends bar for live blues music – it’s not uncommon to see “the legend” himself performing and mingling with the crowd, usually later in the evening.

On the north side of Chicago, sporty couples can catch a Cubs baseball game at Wrigley Field, the second oldest major league baseball stadium in America and one of the most beautiful, featuring an open-air field.

If humor is a mainstay in your relationship, Chicago won’t disappoint. Many famous comedians got their start at Chicago’s Second City comedy club.

After the show, it’s your turn to get roasted! Walk down to The Weiner’s Circle for “hot dogs with a side of sass.”

A weekend taking in all the culture that Chicago has to offer wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Gino’s East for the famous Chicago-style deep dish pizza and a Goose Island Honkers Ale.

Finding the perfect place to draw your & your partner’s initials might not be easy (customer graffiti is encouraged and it is everywhere there) but it will certainly make a nice memory of your weekend together.

New York, New York

Anisa Alhilali from Two Traveling Texans says New York is one of her top picks of romantic weekend getaways.

New York City may be known for non-stop action, but it can be a romantic place to visit as well. If you’re planning a trip to NYC with that special someone, I have a few charming ideas to add to your itinerary.

Just be aware – while there are some budget-friendly things to do in New York, it is easy to spend a lot on a romantic weekend.  

During the day, plan on visiting Central Park, one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in the city. 

You can stroll through the park hand in hand or even do a photoshoot. During the winter, you can go ice skating. 

If you are visiting in the summer, allow time for a picnic or rowboat ride on the Lake.

When the sun goes down, take in the lights of the city from one of the many glamorous rooftop bars (Mr. Purple, Roof at Park South, and so on). 

There are plenty of romantic restaurants (like One if by Land, Two if by Sea) or you could do a dinner cruise around Manhattan with Bateaux. 

If you rather do something indoors, check out the ballet or opera at Lincoln Center or a Broadway show.

Whatever you decide to do, the memories of your time in New York City will be priceless.

Nashville, Tennessee

Nashville, aka Music City, is where Kalee from Kim and Kaylee suggests as a fun romantic getaway for couples full of food and music!

Start your romantic weekend getaway with biscuits and jam at the Loveless Cafe just outside of Nashville. There you’ll experience Southern cooking at its best.

Then, you’re ready to scope out some amazing finds at the Nashville Flea Market.

After the flea market, hit up Midtown for a sweet treat at Gigi’s Cupcakes or spice things up with Nashville’s Hot Chicken at Hattie B’s. You can’t go wrong with the mac & cheese, and on Sunday’s they have chicken and waffles.

Then, you can grab a drink and play corn-hole at Kung Fu Saloon before hitting up Broadway’s infamous honky tonks in the evening.

Not into the honky tonk scene? Check out a show or enjoy a laid back evening at Arrington Vineyards.

After an adventurous first day, enjoy a relaxing second day in Nashville.

Check into the Kimpton Aertson Hotel for its unique art and setting and enjoy their spa before setting off to Centennial Park for a picnic or seeing a movie at the historic Belcourt Theatre.

After, enjoy the latest exhibits at the Frist Art Museum and grab dinner at one of the amazing steakhouses like Kayne Prime or The Southern.

Choose a show that fits your music taste by finishing off the trip with a show at the Bluebird Cafe or the Nashville Symphony.

Looking for something sweet after? Head over to The Diner for dessert since it’s open 24/7.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Oklahoma resident Lisa Sharp from Green Oklahoma thinks Oklahoma should definitely be on your list of romantic weekend getaways.

Oklahoma City isn’t often thought of as a travel destination but it actually has a lot to offer. It’s a wonderful place to spend a romantic weekend.

There are several great hotels located in the heart of OKC, Bricktown.

One of our favorites is the Skirvin Hotel. It’s a beautiful historic hotel that first opened in 1911.

Near the Skirvin Hotel, you will find many great restaurants, though you can’t go past the hotel restaurant for breakfast or brunch.

One of our favorite restaurants in the area is Vast ,which is a wonderful fine dining restaurant in the Devon Tower, the tallest building in OKC. You get amazing food and service plus the best view in town.

The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro is another great steak and seafood fine dining restaurant and if you are planning to be at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, their restaurant is also a delicious and wonderful place to stop.

If you are looking for something more casual, Tapwerks is delicious. Alternatively, head to one of the great local pizza restaurants like The Wedge or The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen.

Don’t forget to go to Capitals Ice Cream for a unique and delicious treat.

And you won’t have to go far for entertainment. In the Bricktown area, you will find the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, Myriad Botanical Gardens, Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, a movie theater, and a few event centers that have events all year.

There is also the beautiful Bricktown Canal to explore or take a water taxi down.

Getting around is simple with the new streetcar that is extremely clean and easy to use.

There’s a whole range of fun summer activities you can do in Oklahoma.

You are sure to love your time there and want to come back again.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Self-confessed Francophile Dee Piercy from Life with Dee loves New Orleans for a couples’ getaway.

New Orleans is famous for Mardi Gras but it has a softer, romantic side as well.

A well-planned weekend getaway with your sweetheart is certain to be a cherished memory. 

Start by selecting accommodations.

A centrally located French Quarter hotel will be convenient and you can easily walk to enough restaurants, bars, live music venues and shops to keep you entertained all weekend.

You can’t go wrong with the lovely Omni Royal Orleans or the historic Monteleone. The Carousel Bar at the Monteleone is the perfect place for pre-dinner cocktails.

Food is a highlight of any visit to New Orleans.

A romantic dinner at Adolfo’s is a must. Get there early, put in your name and then order drinks at the Apple Barrel Bar located on the ground floor. There is usually live music and the Creole Italian food upstairs is worth the wait.

Sleep late Saturday morning because you’ll want to enjoy some late night entertainment on Frenchmen Street.

After a late breakfast, pick up the historic St. Charles streetcar at the corner of St. Charles Avenue and Common Street and take a ride through the Garden District.

The period mansions and live oaks draped with Spanish moss exude romantic Southern charm.

Sunday is a lovely, quieter day in New Orleans.

Board the ferry to Algiers Point and enjoy a short trip across the river. Duck into The Crown and Anchor for an authentic English pub experience.

Upon return to the French Quarter pick up a muffaletta sandwich at Central Grocery on Decatur Street and share it while sitting by the river.

Wrap up this little getaway with live music at The Funky Pirate. If you enjoy the blues this is the best place to be on a Sunday afternoon.

Relaxing romantic weekend getaways

Palm Springs, California

Relaxing Palm Springs is the place Carol Perehudoff from Wandering Carol suggests for your next romantic weekend getaway if rest and rejuvenation is top of your list.

There is nothing like desert air and serene views to up the romance, and Palm Springs has this in spades.

Backdropped by the dramatic San Jacinto Mountains, Palm Springs has scenic vistas galore, but fortunately for couples, it also has plenty of great restaurants and resorts designed for lazing around the pool.

The newest luxe hotel on the scene is Kimpton The Rowan, part of the multi-million dollar Downtown Palm Springs Revitalization Project.

It’s the only hotel with a rooftop pool, so a top choice for couples who want contemporary design mixed with some sunny downtime.

Other properties in Palm Springs have more of a resort feel, such as the sprawling Riviera Palm Springs, where the Rat Pack used to hang out, or the funky 5-star Parker Palm Springs, where Brad and Angelina were rumored to have cuddled up after falling for each other on the set of Mr and Mrs Smith.

If spa pools and hot springs are more your style of romance, Two Bunch Palms in Desert Hot Springs, part of Greater Palm Springs, has outdoor pools and deluxe treatments.

Active couples will find no end of outdoor activities, from hiking the Museum Trail to visiting Indian Canyon, which was a sacred place for the indigenous Cahuilla people.

There are also hikes up in the San Jacinto Mountains – and one of the most popular Palm Springs attractions is to take the Aerial Tramway up. It’s the largest rotating tramway in the world, and the 2.5 mile ride is an adventure in itself.

Snowshoe, West Virginia

Summer from Traveling Summer is a huge fan of Snowshoe as a relaxing romantic weekend destination.

Nestled in the blue hills of West Virginia is one of the East Coast’s premier ski resorts: Snowshoe.

The mountain makes for a romantic weekend getaway year-round, but from June to September there are far less visitors.

Snowshoe hosts several events throughout the summer such as music festivals, beer and wine tastings and mountain biking or cycling competitions.

Couples can also book massages at the spa, hike, go horseback riding or ziplining, golf, or visit the lake. There are outdoor movie nights, yoga classes, and offroad tours as well.

However, the real magic is in simple pleasures like watching the amazing pink sunsets or having a drink by a fire in the crisp mountain air (pack a sweatshirt – it gets much cooler in the evenings).

Lodging prices are much more economical in the summer and there is also a campground at the base of the mountain.

If you plan to spend time together cooking make sure to stock up on supplies on the way to Snowshoe (there are grocery stores in Marlinton and Elkins).

If you opt to dine out Snowshoe’s finer restaurants are Appalachia Kitchen and Elk River. The Junction is great for brunch on the weekends or an easy lunch (think burgers, loaded mac and cheese, salads) and Cheat Mountain Pizza offers delivery.

Make sure to watch out for deer in the road, at Snowshoe they’re so tame you can almost pet them. John Denver was right – West Virginia is wild and wonderful and almost heaven – one of the best romantic weekend getaways you’ll ever have.

Southern Illinois

Kristin from That Traveling Family says Southern Illinois is her choice of romantic getaways for couples who love the outdoors.

If you think romantic and Illinois don’t go together, then you haven’t been to Southern Illinois.

With the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, Garden of the Gods, and plenty of waterfalls on secluded paths, outdoorsy couples will fall in love with this under-the-radar destination.

Start the weekend by renting one of the many cabins in the area. After settling in, use a local shuttle service to spend the day discovering all of the beautiful wineries.

In the evening, make your way to 17th Street Barbecue in Murphysboro.

With a mountain awards and television appearances, including the ribs being named “Best Ribs in the U.S.” by Bon Appetit, it is truly a foodie MUST. As a favorite of President Clinton, their food was even rumored to have been delivered to Airforce One and the White House.

In the morning, the quaint little diner, Harbaugh’s cafe, in Carbondale is the perfect spot to fuel up for exploring the hundreds of acres of Shawnee National Forest.

Whether you prefer rock climbing, biking, zip lining, or simply hiking, Shawnee has it all.

Make sure to find time to explore incredible rock formations at Garden of the Gods and cool off at the peaceful Jackson or Burden Falls. With so many places to explore, you’re likely to have many of the trails completely to yourself.

After all the hiking, snuggling up by the campfire at your cabin may be the perfect end to the day. But if nightlife is what you’re after, there’s nearly always live music to be found in Carbondale.

Ojai, California

Seasoned world explorer Sheri O’Neal from Wander Libre recommends Ojai for the perfect relaxed getaway vibe

The first time my husband and I visited Ojai, we instantly fell in love.

Ojai is located less than 2 hours from Los Angeles, but couldn’t feel more different. It’s a town of 7,500 people, surrounded by oak trees, citrus groves, vineyards, and the Santa Ynez mountains.   

There’s a relaxed, chilled vibe in the town that we haven’t found anywhere else. Think spas, wine-tasting, yoga, organic farm-to-table menus, hiking, horseback riding, and more. 

It’s the perfect place to head for a romantic weekend. 

Depending on your interests, you can have an active weekend full of outdoor activities or simply unwind and relax.  

If you love the outdoors, you have many options.  

Take a hike in the mountains right behind Ojai on Shelf Road or Fox Canyon Trail; rent a bike and ride the Ojai – Ventura bike path to Ventura – and while you’re there, grab a delicious pizza and beer at Fluid State Beer Garden; or take a horseback ride through the Ventura River Reserve with Western Trail Rides.  

In between activities, sip on wine at one of the local wine estates or tasting rooms downtown, take a walking tour of the Ojai Olive Oil ranch, or simply sample the olive oils in the tasting room.  

On Sunday, grab a coffee from Beacon Coffee and stroll through the Farmer’s Market between 9am – 1pm and pick up ingredients for a picnic.  

If you want to go a little further afield, plan a whale watching tour out of Ventura with Island Packers or simply take a walk on the beach.  

When you’re ready to unwind, book a spa package at one of the many spas in town – a couple of options are Ojai Valley Inn and Spa and Day Spa of Ojai.  

And before you head back home, make sure to visit Ojai Valley Inn and Spa to enjoy the “pink moment” at sunset. 

Grab an Adirondack chair on the lawn, your drink of choice, and enjoy the show.

Unique romantic getaways for couples

Mohonk Mountain House, New Palz, New York

A unique destination for a romantic weekend getaway is Mohonk Mountain House, thinks James Ian from Travel Collecting.

The Hudson Valley north of New York City is ideal for a romantic weekend getaway and Mohonk Mountain House is the perfect place to stay.

Built beside a small lake, the resort hotel is a fantasy building that looks like it belongs in a Harry Potter book.

The random mix of stone and wooden buildings makes the perfect backdrop for the lake and surrounding woods. 

There are plenty of things for couples to do. You can enjoy the delicious weekend brunch, relax in rocking chairs on the porch, or unwind in the spa together. 

For more active couples, in summer you can swim at the beach, row on the lake, hike in the woods, help each other through the rock scramble up to a lookout, play tennis or go horse riding together.

In Fall, the changing color of the leaves is spectacular.  If you can tear yourself away from the resort, the Hudson Valley has other fun activities to share in the Fall, like apple picking and corn mazes.

In winter, there are seasonal activities like snowshoeing and ice skating and in spring, the gardens burst with color, making a beautiful backdrop for a stroll around the gardens or for a game of putt putt golf. 

No matter what your interests and no matter what time of year you go, Mohonk Mountain House in New York’s Hudson Valley is a perfect romantic getaway.

Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina

If you’re interested in checking out America’s largest home, Darcy Vierow from Plan, Ready, Go recommends you stay at The Inn.

Without a doubt, The Inn on Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is a top romantic getaway destination for me and my husband.

We have spent three wedding anniversaries there and hope to celebrate many more at this beautiful spot in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The service at The Inn is outstanding, and even standard rooms have lovely views of the surrounding property.

We also love all of the wonderful dining options at The Inn and on the Estate. Though you don’t have to leave The Inn to get a great meal, there are many dining options to choose from throughout the property.

And don’t worry if you have special dietary restrictions; Biltmore has always been very accommodating of our needs. (I’m a vegetarian, and my husband has to eat gluten free.)

My top recommendations are Deerpark Restaurant and The Bistro.

There’s no shortage of things to do while you’re at Biltmore.

There are bikes available for rent, hiking trails, shopping and more. And of course, you don’t want to miss touring the stunning house and gardens while you’re staying on the property.

We highly recommend their behind-the-scenes guided tours. There’s more than enough to put together a perfect itinerary at Biltmore.

If you have flexibility for the time of year you visit, I’d recommend coming in the fall for the amazing colors. The views from both The Inn and the house are stunning at that time of year.

If you’re looking for low crowds, winter is a good time to come, and late spring/into summer means that the gardens will be looking their best.

Leavenworth, Washington

If you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway that possesses a unique charm, then Alina Zavatsky from Vegan Runner Eats thinks Leavenworth, Washington is such a place.

If you’re looking to explore the beautiful Pacific Northwest without getting lost in the hustle and bustle of big cities like Seattle, there’s no better place to visit than Leavenworth, WA.

This charming little town is located on the Eastern slopes of the Cascade Mountains of Washington State.

Every year Leavenworth attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors thanks to its unique appeal: the entire city is designed to resemble a lovely Bavarian village.

From Bavarian-styled buildings and traditional beer gardens to gorgeous mountain backdrops and lots of outdoor activities, Leavenworth is a great destination spot for couples who enjoy a fun and active lifestyle.

No matter what time of year you’re having your romantic weekend getaway, Leavenworth has fun activities for the season.

During the summer, Leavenworth attracts both serious endurance athletes and “weekend warriors” who love running, mountain or road biking, whitewater rafting, kayaking, etc.

Lodging opportunities vary from camping in the mountains to staying at fancy full-service hotels.

In the fall, the annual Oktoberfest celebration attracts thousands of people looking to experience traditional German festivities without leaving Washington state.

For three weekends in October, the city hosts Saturday parades with traditional German music and costumes, then welcomes its guests into specially set up venues with live entertainment, food, and of course, beer.

During the winter, Leavenworth becomes the top skiing destination of Washington state. Hit the slopes of the nearby Stevens Pass Ski Resort with your date, take a dip in a hot tub, then enjoy a hot bratwurst in one of the downtown beer gardens.

Not into winter sports?

Leavenworth hosts an annual Christmas Lighting Festival every year. The city’s buildings and trees are decorated with hundreds of thousands of lights that stay on from Thanksgiving weekend to Valentine’s Day, and the holiday cheer abounds!

They’re the perfect backdrop for your couple’s vacation.

Summing up these romantic getaways in the USA

These romantic weekend getaways are the perfect solution to the problem of a marriage which needs a little care and attention – or for couples who simply want to get out and enjoy being together.

Do yourself a favor and schedule in one of these romantic weekend getaways today.