If you’re taking a long weekend, don’t pick a place that leaves you either overwhelmed or unfulfilled. Going too far away defeats the purpose, as does staying too close. Here are our favorite picks for cities nearby that are little vacations all on their own.
Montreal
One reason Montreal rocks as a weekend getaway is because it’s a bit like cheating Europe, on a much better budget. French and English influences tossed into a blender make it charming and culturally edgy, and you’ll find the same characteristics in most of its other attributes, like architecture, food and nightlife. Just drop yourself in the center of it all, and follow your gut. You’re bound to be pleasantly surprised.
Sedona
For a weekend that relaxes and restores the mind and body, Sedona delivers. No other place in the US is saturated in a crunchy calm quite like this red rock village. The discovery of ‘energy vortexes” here in the 1980s has drawn New Age believers and alternative folk to its gorgeous landscape of sandstone and mesas. From holistic boutiques and studios to yoga retreats and dramatic hiking scenery, Sedona works on the soul like a veteran masseur.
Minneapolis
Prairies, museums and coffee shops: an unlikely grouping for a Midwestern city, but Minneapolis seamlessly capitalizes on nature, art and cuisine. Some are surprised to learn that Minneapolis is bursting with organic and ethnic eateries and showcases a plethora of theater and art performances, as well as exhibits. Its buddy across the river, St. Paul is a quieter version worth a visit on your long weekend.
Santa Fe
When most people think of US history, Boston, Washington DC, and Philadelphia spring to mind. Seldom though, do we recognize the oldest capital in the country. Santa Fe is rife with adobe architecture and southwestern cuisine, and artfully stirs together Mexican, Native American, Latino and Western cultures. Check out the thriving performing arts scene, buy handmade turquoise jewelry and explore the Spanish-influenced central plazas.
San Francisco
Whether you’re a beat poet, an aging hippie, or just looking to explore a city with hills, shoreline, and an artistic vibe, San Francisco is the perfect weekend city. Day one, head to Fisherman’s Wharf, “ooh” and “ahh” at the sea lions on Pier 39, then trek across the bridge and back before rewarding yourself with goods in Ghirardelli Square. Day two, shop in Hayes Valley, rock tie-dye in Haight Ashbury, and hit the nightlife in Castro or Mission. Day three, relax and tour Alcatraz (if you’re smart enough to buy tickets in advance.)
Miami
It’s hard not to dive into the “Welcome to Miami” cliché, but it’s certainly a gateway to a place between “chilling out, maxed and relaxing all cool,” so Will Smith get his dues either way. Addicted to Latin rhythm, and really good at serving up beaches, cocktails and celebrity sightings, Miami brings thrills at all hours of the day, and never promises a good night’s sleep.
Portland
Somewhat like its same-named sister in Oregon, Portland, Maine emphasizes all things organic and local with a touch New England. Walk across this tiny city five times in a day, and each time you’ll find a new coffee shop, brew pub or store that smells like patchouli. Explore the dynamic waterfront and hang with the best of Maine’s bohemian crowd.
Toronto
Fifty percent of people in Toronto were born somewhere else, so you’ll probably fit right in. A fusion of European, Latin American, Asian and Caribbean immigration has fashioned a place that cradles creativity and exercises constant tolerance. The blend of ethnicities manifests through cuisine and arts, so fill your weekend with its eclectic offerings.
Austin
Sure, it’s a college town, but Austin won’t be defined by keg stands and frat parties. The capital of Texas laughs ironically in the face of other Texan cities, boasting its “weirdness” through a mix of small-town vibes and global awareness. Big on local music, and thankfully recasting its dining scene, Austin is a hip choice for a weekend of live music and approachable art with a side of southern drawl.
New York
Five boroughs, hundreds of neighborhoods and countless streets jam-packed with entertainment all add up to one fantastic land of marvel. From the urban arts of Soho to the respite and hip balance of Brooklyn, to the all-in-its-glory tourism of Times Square, Madison Avenue and Rockefeller Center, NYC gives way to one heavy weekend after another. Spend three days soaking up one area, or bounce from vintage to hip hop to Broadway for a classic dose of miscellany.
