If a long honeymoon doesn’t fit your post-wedding schedule, don’t think you can’t celebrate your new marriage with a special trip. Instead of a honeymoon, you can opt for a mini-moon — a quick getaway that’s just a short drive or flight away. Here are five U.S. mini-moon destinations for you and your new beau to consider.
Napa Valley, California
California’s wine country is the perfect quick escape for newlyweds looking to enjoy the serenity of rolling vineyards, wine tastings and quaint bed and breakfasts. Napa Valley was built for lovers, whether you’re spending your mornings strolling through grape vines or sipping a glass of your new favorite Merlot during sun-soaked afternoons. Rent a private cottage for a truly special mini-moon.
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Getting married in New England? Consider a mini-moon in nearby Nantucket, an island off the Massachusetts coast that offers a quiet and luxurious beachside escape. Book yourself a cozy inn for your first getaway as a married couple, and spend your days enjoying Nantucket’s beaches, strolling by the quaint and upscale shops in town or visiting Nantucket’s historic sites. In the evenings, you can feast on fresh seafood on the harbor.
Asheville, North Carolina
This picturesque mountain town is perfect for newlyweds seeking nature’s beauty as the backdrop to their mini-moon. Rent a car, pack a picnic and drive along Blue Ridge Parkway, dubbed America’s Favorite Drive thanks to its stunning foliage, beautiful parks and historic manors. You can spend your time in a rustic mountain cabin, escaping only for the great dining and shopping options in downtown Asheville.
Sedona, Arizona
You’ll find plenty of romantic resorts and bed and breakfasts in Sedona, a town known for its serenity and natural beauty. Sedona’s famous Red Rocks make for romantic hikes or scenic drives, whichever you prefer. In town, there’s plenty of shopping and cool restaurants, and within driving distance, you can visit classic sights like the Grand Canyon and Route 66.
Las Vegas
Sure, most think of Vegas as a convenient spot to get hitched, but Sin City is also a perfect mini-moon destination. Whether you’re seeking thrills, gaming, spa treatments or nightlife, you’ll find it in Las Vegas. You can take a gondola ride through the Venetian, then watch the fountains put on a beautiful water show in front of the Bellagio. Just about every resort offers romantic couple’s spa treatments, too, so you can relax with massages or body treatments.
(Main image: Grand Velas Riviera Maya used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
