We're in a bit of a lull before the next major set of holidays in the U.S., but we're definitely not waiting around to take our next (and already much needed) vacation. Sometimes, we all need a getaway to feel like a million bucks.
Here are 10 easy weekend getaway ideas that require minimal planning and just a bit of spontaneity (if you want even more ideas, join the FTLO Community for some inside info).
Ideas for a weekend getaway
1. Belize for Beach Fun
Beach trips aren’t just for people who love to swim and sunbathe. Most coastal regions boast charming beach towns filled with shops and delicious seafood options; bar hopping experiences abound; and you’ll find that they are excellent for photography and art. But if you do in fact love the waves and sunshine, then you can of course take a dip in the ocean and soak up some sun rays! Our Belize trip is just the trick for travelers in dire need of a sandy getaway.
2. Mexico City for Foodies
Yes, you can dedicate a weekend to food! Foodie excursions are the best. Aside from giving you more reasons to have delicious photoshoots with your meals, you can also take some time to experiment with new cuisines and challenge yourself and your friends to try foods you’ve never had before. Fill your life with new flavors and experiences! (Check out FTLO’s mouth-watering foodie trip to Mexico City, it's one of our best weekend getaway ideas yet!)
3. Oaxaca for Mezcal Cocktails
If you’re into any wines, beers or cocktails (or want to be into any of these), take the weekend to visit select wineries, breweries or cocktail rooms that specialize in your interest. You don’t have to already be an expert in any of the above to enjoy a good drink, and you certainly won’t regret learning more about it in the process! Our favorite getaway cocktails come from the land of culture in Oaxaca, Mexico!
4. The American West for a Desert Escape
If your ideas for a weekend getaway revolve around something calmer and more refreshing consider the desert landscapes of the U.S. They offer a perfect weekend getaway for the city-dweller who needs a little break from the fast life. Spend a weekend under the stars shining bright against the night sky and wrapped up in crisp air of the desert. Breathtaking sunsets and inspiring sunrises make a weekend in the desert feel like a beautiful eternity. Rent a cabin or camp out in the desert to discover wildlife and explore cool, hip desert towns.
5. Havana for Art and Museums
Take a weekend to visit colorful art spots, galleries, and museums and you’ll likely find yourself inspired to live life more vibrantly and expressively. Be it old school or modern, art has the power to challenge and inspire those who see or experience it. In fact, studies have shown that those who are exposed to art tend to be more intelligent, develop more social-emotional skills, have reduced anxiety and depression, have improved memory skills, and even live longer! Our trip down to Havana is a perfect opportunity to get up close and personal with Cuban arts and culture.
6. National Parks for Epic Scenery
There are more than 60 areas across the US that are protected as National Parks, with many of them being forests, deserts, caves, valleys, bodies of water, canyons and more. Hike them, swim them, run them, camp them. Take a weekend to discover the beauty of your local environment and you might even discover your new favorite weekend getaway spot!
7. Road Trip for Music Festival Vibes
The US is known for having some of the largest and best music festivals in the world, and artists from all over the world constantly run tours through the country. There are music festivals of all kinds, of all genres - no matter what type of music you’re into. You’re likely just a short drive or flight away from a lively music festival where you’ll meet new people with the same taste in music!
8. Costa Rica for Boats and Jungle Treks
For all those who like a bit of lounging with their adventurous jungle escape, there's no better short trip then one down to Costa Rica. FTLO's adventure in Central America is the perfect getaway for those in need of sea, sand, sun and jungle.
9. Yoga Retreat for Peace
If the goal of your weekend vaca is to feel rejuvenated, look no further than a yoga retreat. Weekend yoga retreats are perfect for cleansing your body and mind and clearing away any stress you may be experiencing from work and life. You’ll find it inspiring to take time for yourself alongside others. After a weekend of strength exercises and self-care, you’ll feel recharged and ready to take on the world.
10. Spontaneous Round-Trips for Adventure
If you really want to make your weekend feel like a mini vacation, jump on a roundtrip flight to another city you’ve always wanted to visit! Seattle, Portland, Miami, Austin, Palm Springs, San Francisco, Chicago, New Orleans, are all excellent weekend destinations, to name a few…It only takes a minute to discover a new place or meet a new person! So imagine what you can do with an entire weekend?
Share this with your best gal or guy to start sparking your imagination and growing that list of ideas for a weekend getaway without ever having to dip into your PTO! ;) Happy traveling!
🌎 Want a longer vacation? Check out FTLO's upcoming group trips to amazing places around the world or join our community by filling out a profile, and one of our Community Managers will help find the best destinations for you!