Now is the time to start planning weekend getaways for 2023. Here’s 23 ideas all located within the United States to get your planning started. Lets make 2023 your most adventurous year yet!

1. Glacier/Whitefish, Montana – Ok we’re a bit bias on this one since we live here, but Glacier National Park attracts millions of visitors every year for a reason. Montana is simply majestic – big sky, big views and tons of outdoor adventures to be had.

• Where to fly into: Kalispell Airport (FCA)
• Best time to visit: December-Early April for Skiing & Snowboarding, July & August are peak season for Glacier, Shoulder season May/June and September means less crowds and still a ton of hiking and outdoor activities available. Early September is our favorite time to visit the park.
• Top things to do (Spring, Summer Visits): Visit Glacier National Park – Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road or even better bike it in May-June, Hike Highline Trail, Cracker Lake, Grinnell Glacier, or our favorite- Swiftcurrent Pass. Have a picnic at Lake McDonald, Boat day on Whitefish or Flathead Lake, Take the lift to the summit of Whitefish Resort in summer and hike down, Hike in the Jewel Basin, go whitewater rafting, learn to fly fish on a guided trip, float the North fork river. For winter activities check out this post: Winter in Whitefish

• Where to fly into: Boise, Idaho is about a 3 hour drive to Stanley
• Best time to visit: July-September, June is a bit early for Summer and we ran into a minimal snow on hikes, but were rewarded with absolutely no crowds and loved it
• Top things to do: Sawtooth Lake Hike, Boat day on Redfish Lake, Visit the many Hot Springs, Alice Lake Loop Overnight Hike. Check out my complete weekend guide here.

3. Little Gasparilla Island, Florida – An island with miles of nearly private white sand beaches, no cars and breathtaking west coast sunsets every night. This slice of paradise is my favorite destination in Florida.

• Where to fly into: Sarasota (SRQ- 1 hour drive) or Tampa (TPA- 1hour 45 min drive) or Fort Myers (RSW – 1 hour 15min drive)
• Best time to visit: March/April & October/November are ideal temperatures to avoid Summer heat, but all summer long is great for the beach – In Florida that means May – September. Bonfires on the beach are allowed so even winter months are highly enjoyable
• Top things to do: Beach days, kayak, paddleboard, rent a golf cart and explore the island, fishing, enjoy happy hour at sunset, bonfires. Check out everything you need to know to plan a trip here.

4. Santa Ynez Valley, California – You’ve heard of Napa and Sonoma, but if you love wine Santa Ynez Valley just north of Santa Barbara is a must visit. Santa Ynez Valley is busting with wineries much less touristy and even more charming then the big name ones up north. Cruising through rolling hills of vineyards will make you feel like you’re in Tuscany.

• Where to fly into: Santa Barbra (SBA) or drive 2 hours from Los Angeles (LAX)
• Best Time to visit: year round, it was absolutely beautiful when we visited in July
• Top things to do: Visit Demetria Vineyards (our favorite vineyard in the valley), Fess Parker Vineyard and Sunstone Winery, or book a wine tour to multiple vineyards, explore the Danish village of Solvang, grab breakfast at one of the many Danish bakery’s

5. Sedona, Arizona – Redrocks, amazing hiking, great restaurants and a funky western vibe makes Sedona a perfect weekend getaway.

• Where to fly into: Phoenix (PHX – about a 2 hour drive)
• Best time to visit: year round
• Top things to do: Hiking – check out my guide to 5 incredible hikes, rent atvs or side by sides, check out the wineries, dining/shopping in downtown, take a jeep tour up ridge run road for sunset, go golfing

6. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina – If you’re on the east coast and looking for a getaway within driving distance -Western North Carolina provides a lovely escape to the mountains.

• Where to fly into: Atlanta (ATL) is the biggest hub about 2hrs from Franklin, NC, or fly into Asheville (ASH)
• Best time to visit: Late September/early October for fall foliage, Summer months are splendid. Mild seasons make this doable really anytime of the year
• Top things to do: Hiking – Whiteside Mountain, Siler Bald, Rufus Morgan Trail, Picnic at Wyah Bald. Stop at Tallulah Gorge if flying into ATL, Whitewater rafting in summer time on the Nantahala or Ocoee, Mountain Biking, Day trip to Asheville for a brewery tour and shopping downtown, visit Smoky Mountain National Park

7. Moab, Utah – Considered an adventure capital you’ll be sure to find your fill of outdoor activities here. Moab is also home to Canyonlands and Arches National Parks.

• Where to fly into: The biggest nearby airport is Salt Lake City (SLC – 4 hr drive), other smaller options are Grand Junction, CO (GJT – 1 hr 45 min drive) or Montrose, CO (MTJ – 2hr 44min drive)
• Best time to visit: Summertime is peak season, we went in November and temperatures were lovely – no snow and fewer crowds. Past November you’ll start to get snow which may affect some hikes
• Top things to do: Day trip to Canyonlands National Park – hike to Druid Arch, Explore Arches National Park – hike delicate arch for sunset, walk the devils garden loop (be sure to follow maps to find all the arches), hike windows loop, Drive Shafer Trail (4×4 recommended), Mountain Bike Sliprock trail, Check out the views at Dead Horse Point State Park

8. Oregon Coast – with its snowcapped mountains, deep blue lakes, rolling sand dunes, and gorgeous coastline, Oregon is the perfect state to explore on a week long roadtrip

• Where to fly into: Portland (PDX)
• Best time to visit: May to September to avoid rainy season
• Top things to do: Visit Coos Bay and Natural Bridges, Rent atvs and go wild in the sand dunes, try sand boarding, camp at Cape Kiwanda, stop at the many breweries, grab ice cream at Tillamock Creamery, go salmon fishing. Check out this post for a full Oregon roadtrip itinerary.

9. Crater Lake National Park – Just a quick detour from your Oregon Coast roadtrip this fun add-on will reward you with the bluest blue you’ll ever see. It is truly striking to see this natural marvel in person and only a few hours from the coast it makes for an easy itinerary add if you have a few extra vacation days.

• Where to fly into: Portland (PDX)
• Best time to visit: Summer months for best hiking
• Top things to do: Cleatwood Cove hike, take a dip in the Lake and do some cliff jumping, Watchman Peak hike to a fire lookout above the lake, Stop at Crater Lake Lodge for patio drinks, Hike Mount Scott for in my opinion the best all encompassing view of the lake

10. Grand Canyon, Arizona – One of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is an absolute must see for all Americans. In the Havasupai tribal lands just south of the Colorado River cutting through the Grand Canyon is a series of water falls – a hard to score reservation, but one of the most incredible backpacking trips you can take. Read this post to find out how to visit the Gatorade blue waters of the Havasupai Indian Reservation.

• Where to fly into: Flagstaff (FLG- 1.5 hr drive to south rim) Phoenix (PHX – 3hr 45min drive), Las Vegas (4.5 hour drive)
• Best time to visit: Spring and Fall to avoid the hottest summer months and some snow in the heart of winter
• Top things to do: Hike the South Kaibab trail, for overnight camping hike to down South Kaibab to the Colorado River, camp and hike out Bright Angel trail, Catch sunset at Shoshone Point. Check out how to spend one perfect day at the South Rim here. If you’re luck enough to score a reservation to hike Havasupai Falls check out my post for an amazing itinerary.

11. Zion, Utah – Don’t stop at just the Grand Canyon, continue your way out west trip with a few days in Zion National Park which will blow you away with its dramatic landscapes.

• Where to fly into: Las Vegas (LAS – 3 hr drive)
• Best time to visit: Late spring to early fall
• Top things to do: Hike Angels Landing, the Narrows, or for an easy family friendly hike: Canyon Overlook Trail. Check out this blog post to lean more

12. Big Sur, California – The stretch of US Hwy 1 that passes through Big Sur, California is one of the most beautiful drives in the country with plenty of fun stops to make. We recommend renting a car and driving from San Jose to LA.

• Where to fly into: San Jose (SJC – 2 hr drive), San Francisco (SFO – 2.5 hours from Big Sur but the drive is part of the adventure)
• Best time to visit: year round thanks to California’s incredible weather, but March to May you can catch the beautiful wildflowers in bloom
• Top things to do: Rent a convertible to drive Hwy 1, glamping at Ventana Big Sur, Garrapata State Park Bluff Trail, hike the Vincent Flat Trail in Los Padres State Park, Enjoy lunch and drinks at Nepenthe Restaurant, Hike Ewoldson Trail to McWay Falls, Check out the Bixby Creek Bridge, go kayaking with sea lions

13. Charleston, South Carolina – One of the most charming and colorful towns in America, this seaside gem is packed with history, fine cuisine, and picturesque streets.

• Where to fly into: Charleston (CHS)
• Best time to visit: Spring (March – May) and Fall (Oct – Nov) to avoid the wetter summer months
• Top things to do: Shopping down King Street, book an inshore or deep sea fishing trip from Shem Creek, ride bikes along Isle of Palm, Beach day at Folly Beach, Oysters for happy hour, take a stroll down historic rainbow row and along waterfront park

14. Acadia National Park, Maine – Woodlands, pristine lakes, and granite-domed mountains with stunning views over the Atlantic plus an endless supply of fresh lobster – yes, please!

• Where to fly into: Bangor, ME (BGR- 1 hr drive), or Drive from Boston (BOS- 3.5 hr drive)
• Best time to visit: Summer or Sept-Oct for the Fall Foliage
• Top things to do: Hike the Precipe Trail (not for the faint of heart), Hike to Bubble Rock overlooking Jordan Pond, Bike the carriage roads to Jordan Pond, Beehive Hike, Sunset at the top of Cadillac Mountain, Learn how to catch lobster on a boat trip then enjoy plenty of it, visit Bar Harbor, ME

15. Southwest Colorado – From Durango to Silverton to Telluride the Southwest corner of Colorado is somewhat less visited then the mountainous areas surrounding Denver and has a ton of adventure to offer along with incredible views.

• Where to fly into: Durango (DRO) or Montrose (MTJ), farther would be to drive from Denver (6ish hours)
• Best time to visit: Summer and Fall- June to early October
• Top things to do: Whitewater raft Upper Animas River, ride the Durango to Silverton train along the Upper Animas, Scale the Telluride Via Ferrata (climbing gear required), Rent atvs and drive the Greater Alpine Loop near Silverton, learn to fly fish on a guided trip, Stop in the Swiss Alps of America: Ouray, Hike Blue Lake, Ice Lake or Clear Lake, Picnic at Molas Lake, go mountain biking at Telluride Ski Resort

16. Mackinaw Island, Michigan – A great weekend escape for folks in Michigan, Illinois or Minneapolis (all within driving distance) this charming island has no cars and steps you back in time for a slower paced weekend. Take in the gorgeous homes and immaculate gardens as you explore by foot, bike or horse drawn carriage.

• Where to fly into: Closest major airport is Detroit (4 hr drive), can fly to Chippewa County International Airport or Pellston Regional Airport. You will take a ferry to the island as there are no cars on the island.
• Best time to visit: May to October
• Top things to do: Check out this blog post to plan a trip. Bike ride around the island, learn how to make fudge, visit the historic Grand Hotel – have drinks on the patio or in the Cupola Bar, check out Arch Rock, explore the beautiful homes and gardens on the island

17. Fredericksburg, Texas – Just outside of Austin, Fredericksburg is becoming a popular weekend escape for Texans and rightfully so. It is busting with wineries. Although most of the wine is imported from other regions, they offer a great outdoor atmosphere.

• Where to fly into: Austin (ATX -1.5 hr drive)
• Best time to visit: Year Round
• Top things to do: Wineries to visit- Das Peach Haus, William Chris Vineyards, Slate Theory (cave tasting tour), Augusta Vin, Signor, Barons Creek, 290 Wine Castle, or book a wine shuttle via 290 shuttle or Texas Tipsy tours, shopping along main street in downtown Fredericksburg, go line dancing at the dance hall, stay in a tree house Airbnb

18. Joshua Tree, CA – Joshua trees you will only find here and some of the most unique Airbnb’s in the country. A trip to this national park affords relaxation with a side of adventure and astonishing night skies.

• Where to fly into: Palm Springs (PSP – 45 min- 1 hr drive), Los Angeles (LAX – 2-3 hr drive)
• Best time to visit: March – May and October – November
• Top things to do: wander through the Cholla Cactus Garden, explore hidden valley, hike Ryan Mountain or the Panorama Loop Trail, check out the 49 Palms Oasis, try bouldering/rock climbing, find Skull Rock, Arch Rock and Heart Rock, stay at a unique Airbnb or try glamping, window shop the eclectic Joshua tree shops

19. Padre Island/Port Aransas, TX – Not many think of Texas for its beaches, but Padre Island National Seashore which connects to Mustang Island and Port Aransas offers expansive beaches that you can drive on, fun beach bars, and great golf courses. You can drive as far south on the beach as you like to camp out with the ultimate privacy miles from civilization. Check out this blog post to learn more about camping on the Padre Island National Seashore.

• Where to fly into: Corpus Christi (CRP) or drive from Houston (IAH or HOB – 4hr drive)
• Best time to visit: Year round
• Top things to do: Play at the beach, drive as far south as you can and camp remotely on the beach, go golfing at Pamilla Beach Golf Club, take a deep sea fishing charter

20. Scottsdale, Arizona – A hot bachelorette party destination thanks to its vibrant bar scene and palm springs vibes, Scottsdale has a little bit of everything from colorful pool parties, to fine dining, to dessert hiking. Check out this blog post to plan your trip!

• Where to fly into: Phoenix (PHX)
• Best time to visit: Fall through Spring, avoid the extreme summer heat
• Top things to do: Hike Camelback, Piestewa Peak or Pinnacle Peak, Visit the Desert botanical Gardens, Pool Day at the Saguaro Hotel, Shop/Dine/Explore Old Town Scottsdale, Enjoy some the best pizza at Pizzeria Bianco , Go to a spring training baseball game (the San Francisco Giants play right in Old Town), go golfing, have yourself a spa day

21. Caddo Lake, Texas – Deep in the swamps along the border of Texas and Louisiana you will find a peaceful getaway very different then anywhere else on this list. Things slow down in the still waters as you glide through mangroves and lily pads. Its a place to unwind far away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Check out this blog post to plan a visit.

• Where to fly into: Dallas (DFW – 2.5 hr drive), Houston (IAH – 4 hr drive)
• Best time to visit: From late April till June the Lotus flowers will bloom, Fall is also quite nice
• Top things to do: Rent a canoe from Johnsons Ranch Marina, camp at Caddo Lake State Park, go fishing, setup a hammock and read a book floating between the mangroves, Rent kyaks from river bend outfitters, explore the paddling trails from Blackwater Jacks

22. Kauai, Hawaii– A longer trip for non west coast people, but if you want tropical plus hiking Kauai is the place to go. From the dramatic Napali Coast to the aloha vibes of the North shore – this is our favorite Hawaiian island.

• Where to fly into: Lihue (LIH)
• Best time to visit: April, May, August, September to avoid peak crowds and still enjoy good weather
• Top things to do: Explore Wiamea Canyon, hike to Kalepa Ridge for sunset, hike Awaawapuhi Trail, poke bowls from the Koloa Fish Market, Take a doors off Helicopter tour, stay/play at a beach resort, Go to tunnels beach in the North Shore, try surfing, take a boat tour along the Napali coast, go scuba diving, go on an off-road atv tour. Check out this blog post to see our full itinerary with links to all activities.

23. Yellowstone, Wyoming – The geothermal pools at Yellowstone are a true marvel. Combine that with wild bison roaming all over the oldest national park in America and you’ve got yourself one unique vacation.

• Where to fly into: Yellowstone Airport (YWS), Jackson Hole Airport (JAC- 1 hr drive), Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN- 1.5 hr drive)
• Best time to visit: Yellowstone NP gets very over crowded in peak summer months so try to plan a shoulder season visit May-June or Sep-Oct
• Top things to do: Watch Old Faithful erupt, check out all the geysers on the Upper Geyser Basin trail, walk the continental divide trail to Artemisia Trailhead and all the offshoots along the Firehole River, stop at Biscuit Basin Trailhead, enjoy a picnic along any of the many rivers, visit Gibbon Falls and the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone (best view from Artist Point), get stuck in a Bison traffic jam, hike through Lamar Valley, visit Mammoth hot springs, Visit Grand Prismatic Spring and hike Fairy Falls trail to the overlook. Check out this post to see what its like to visit Yellowstone in the off-season.

I hope this post has inspired a few weekend getaways! Let me know where you end up going in the comments or if you have any questions!