The best couples' vacations in the U.S. for romance and adventure

Sedona, Arizona, is known for its striking red rock landscapes, majestic canyons, and dreamy desert surroundings, making it an ideal place to slow down and reset with your better half. It’s also home to several energy vortexes (natural sites believed to emit spiritual energy), including Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. The town itself is teeming with wellness-focused spas, yoga studios, and holistic healing centers, while outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and alfresco yoga offer easy ways for couples to reconnect with nature (and each other). 

Time Out tip: Book spa treatments in advance—appointments fill up fast. 

Where to stay: The aptly named Enchantment Resort serves as a romantic home base for soaking in all that Sedona has to offer, with its sumptuous spa and on-site activities (think hiking, biking, and lounging by a sparkling pool flanked by red rocks). Additionally, every room features its own private deck or patio, perfect for snuggling and enjoying the sunset. 

Chicago might not be the first city that comes to mind for a romantic getaway—but for foodie couples, it’s a dream. The dining scene is impressively vast, with everything from cozy neighborhood bistros and moody speakeasies to Michelin-starred mainstays like Alinea. Split a deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s or Pequod’s, book a tasting menu at Oriole or Ever or snack your way through the stalls of Time Out Market (shameless plug!). Add in scenic lakefront strolls, candlelit jazz clubs and rooftop bars with skyline views, and you’ve got all the makings of an unexpectedly romantic escape.

Time Out tip: It goes without saying, but dining reservations are highly encouraged—especially at the top spots mentioned above. 

Where to stay: Couples can—and should—splurge on a stay at The Peninsula Chicago, home to a shimmering indoor pool with sweeping skyline views, a serene (and recently renovated) spa and luxe rooms with soaking tubs outfitted with built-in TVs (yes, really). 

Majestic, lush landscapes, glorious weather, fantastic dining and the country’s best wineries make California Wine Country not only one of the most romantic getaways in America but also around the world. While many gravitate to Napa, the county and town of Sonoma offer a quieter luxury experience that maintains a local feel. It also boasts a slew of charming shops, tasting rooms and restaurants all centered around the bustling Sonoma Plaza. Overall, this Northern California destination is perfect for anniversaries, honeymoons or just some quality time.

Time Out tip: Make tasting reservations in advance to secure your spot. 

Where to stay: For the most romantic of accommodations, book a stay at the luxurious Lodge at Sonoma, which offers a spa, pool and several on-site restaurants

Of all the Hawaiian islands, Kauai gets top billing for its remote setting, secluded beaches, and local feel. While Oahu and Maui may be more cosmopolitan, couples come to Kauai for a more laid-back and rural, not to mention the stunning scenery. Nicknamed "The Garden Isle," for its lush landscapes, it's the perfect place for outdoor adventure like hiking and snorkeling, though we wouldn't blame you if you spent all day lounging along the shore. 

Time Out tip: Plan to visit between April and September for optimal warm, sunny weather

Where to stay: For true luxury and romance, book a stay at 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay on the North Shore. Romance is around every corner here. 

Upstate New York has some of the best and most beautiful countryside on the eastern seaboard. The summers are sensational, the fall foliage is fantastic...and come the holiday season, it offers a winter wonderland of snow-coated shenanigans. The adjacent town of Hunter offers a warm, small-town feel, and while it's a far cry from any nearby city, it reminds you of a time when you actually went to local stores to buy essentials and didn't order them through a website. A bygone era indeed. The locals are quite accustomed to visitors, including strangers from 'out of town' and 'city folk,' so they're friendly and extremely helpful. 

Time Out tip: Visit midweek to beat the crowds and save on lodging and activities. 

Where to stay: There are several great places to stay, but we believe the best is the Hunter Mountain Sanctuary, where you can enjoy a roaring open fire, a glass of wine and gaze back at the mountain, be it covered in lush, green vegetation or a smooth blanket of pure white snow. Here, you can truly switch off... if you want to.

Snow bunnies who love hitting the slopes for fresh powder in the morning and cuddling up by a raging fire in the evening will find all their winter wonderland dreams come true in Aspen. Enjoy standout dining at vibrant restaurants like Matsuhisa, Casa Tua or Betula, where the vibes are as strong as the cocktails. The shopping and nightlife scenes are just as lively, with top spots including The Snow Lodge and Caribou Club (which is members-only ), and beloved boutiques like Kemo Sabe and Wyld Blue.

Time Out tip: If traveling in winter, book lessons, lift tickets and rentals well in advance. 

Where to stay: Couples love Gant Aspen’s luxurious condominiums, where each unit comes with a full kitchen for making romantic meals and a heated outdoor pool. Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, daily skiing and leisure time in historic downtown Aspen are easily within grasp.

With its hilly streets, waterfront views and charming Victorian homes, the City by the Bay is a great place to stroll hand-in-hand and embrace romance. Traverse the famously hilly landscape for stunning views of the bay and skyline, taking delight in all the ways the city’s history collides with its futuristic, tech-driven present. For a splurge-worthy meal, book a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant; while there are plenty to choose from, our top pick is Lazy Bear, an iconic San Francisco experience that showcases creative, innovative takes on nostalgic American fare using seasonal Bay Area ingredients. 

Time Out tip: Ditch the rental car and utilize public transit to save money. 

Where to stay: Book a waterfront room at the 1 Hotel San Francisco and end your evening watching the sparkling Bay Bridge in the distance. 

Horse-drawn carriages, Spanish moss, cobblestone streets and antebellum architecture make Savannah one of the South’s most romantic destinations. Lounge on the sandy beach on Tybee Island, then visit the ruins of Wormsloe, Savannah’s oldest standing structure and the 18th-century home of carpenter Noble Jones. A photo together on its oak-lined, moss-shrouded boulevard is the only souvenir you’ll need to bring home.

Time Out tip: Bring comfy shoes: Savannah is best explored on foot. 

Where to stay: Just steps from leafy Forsyth Park, the chic Hotel Bardo Savannah—housed in a 19th-century-era Victorian mansion—stands out for its retro-esque interiors, expansive pool, serene spa and swanky Italian eatery.

The eastern peninsula of Massachusetts is one of the East Coast’s finest summer destinations. In Cape Cod, harbors with darling lighthouses, chowder shacks, historic architecture, boats of all varieties, cranberry bogs, windswept beaches, and small towns make for a relaxing trip, enjoying each other’s company. For upscale seafood (with generous portions), look no further than Impudent Oyster, the ideal date night spot.

Time Out tip: Visit in September (post-Labor Day) for fewer crowds, lower prices and pleasant weather.

Where to stay: Consider booking at Chatham Bars Inn Resort & Spa, which offers 25 acres of ocean-front property as well as amenities like a private beach and a heated oceanfront pool.

Escape to Woodstock, an idyllic pastoral haven at this quintessential New England village. A fresh-off-the-fields farmers' market, a general store that dates back to the 1850s, town suppers and some of the most colorful, crisp fall foliage around make this tiny town (population just over 3,000) an off-the-beaten-track destination. For a breakfast or lunch that even locals swear by, grab a rustic table at Mon Vert Café. Here, the coffee is almost as good as the homemade baked goods and the sandwiches are savory delights.

Time Out tip: Visit in the fall for fantastic foliage. 

Where to stay: The aptly named Woodstock Inn and Resort boasts luxury accommodations, five dining and drinking options, and an all-around postcard-worthy setting. 

Whether you can’t get enough skiing in the winter, want to hike across a beautiful Western landscape or are just looking for a nice place to stay and eat before you venture into Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole is for you. For a romantic meal, make a beeline for The Kitchen, which boasts an ultra-modern domed ceiling, romantic lighting, chic decor and a seafood-forward menu.

Time Out tip: Rent a car—you'll need one to explore the surrounding areas like Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. 

Where to stay: Seeking the rustic feel of a cabin but really need modern amenities and accommodations? Book a stay at Spring Creek Ranch, where you’ll enjoy unparalleled views of the mountains in rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and cable television.

Everyone has heard of San Diego, but not everyone has actually visited. And you should. It's a small city, relatively speaking for the USA, but it's all about location... and it doesn't get much better than this. Situated on the glorious Pacific coast, there are plenty of beaches to choose from and the Old Town makes for a fun place to explore to find somewhere good to eat. America's finest city didn't just give itself that moniker and for a significantly slowed-down pace, Southern California's mini-metropolis is hard to top.

Time Out tip: Stay somewhere central, like the Gaslamp Quarter, so you're in easy walking distance to top restaurants, bars, and attractions. 

Where to stay: The Guild Hotel, San Diego, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, marries modern design with timeless elegance. Its central locale in the aforementioned Gaslamp Quarter makes an ideal—and luxe—home base for couples. 

Just twenty minutes outside of Phoenix, Scottsdale beckons couples with an endless number of resorts and spas that invite you to relax and take in the desert sun. When not lounging or getting pampered, stroll through Old Town, go on a horseback ride, or even book a wine tasting (Arizona wine is up and coming!). 

Time Out tip: Time your visit strategically: Scottsdale and Phoenix boast a robust festival and events calendar worth planning a trip around.

Where to stay: For the most romantic resort in the area—Jay Z and Bey's choice on their honeymoon–book a stay at Sanctuary Camelback Mountain.

New Orleans is particularly fantastic for lovebirds. Partners who can’t agree on what is most important on vacation—sightseeing, excellent food, adventure or relaxation—will find their perfect compromise when indulging in live jazz music, riverboat rides, strolls through the French Quarter, Cajun food and ghost tours. 

Time Out tip: For a fun and efficient way to explore, hop aboard one of the city's historic streetcars ($1.25 per ride)

Where to stay: Splurge on a stay in the French Quarter at the splendid Audubon Cottages. The private, gorgeously decorated cottages come with a range of amenities, including butler service, while the shared Tuscan-style courtyard features a fabulous saltwater pool.

Founded in 1670, Charleston is as historic as it is gorgeous: streets lined with pastel antebellum architecture and an exquisite French Quarter. Make sure to stop by the Battery Promenade for views of the Charleston harbor. While appreciating the oozing-with-charm downtown Charleston, stop at the Peninsula Grill. Located off Marketplace, this renowned eatery serves some of the finest elevated Southern food in town.

Time Out tip: Consider avoiding visits in the summer to escape the scorching heat and humidity. 

Where to stay: The boutique Emeline hotel embodies Southern hospitality with its thoughtful service. The date-night-worthy on-site restaurant, where you can dine on pizza al fresco amid a roaring fireplace, is the icing on the cake. 

Nantucket, a tiny island off the coast of Cape Cod, positively drips in history. A favorite holiday location for many who could be considered US royalty, including the Kennedys and the Bidens. The island also played a significant role during the age when whaling was common: Moby Dick begins here. And while that doesn't seem like a particularly pleasant period of history, you should remind yourself that at least it wasn't en masse, like it is today. Visit the Egan Maritime Institute & Museum for an undoubtedly exceptional insight into the island's rich history. It also boasts the biggest single collection of work by celebrated marine artist Rodney Charman. The streets have that quaint, colonial feel to them and it truly feels like you've found tranquility. Enjoy the freshly-caught seafood and have a hearty laugh at the property prices. 

Time Out tip: Take the ferry from Hyannis or New Bedford, which is as efficient as it is scenic. 

Where to stay: See and be seen at the coastal-chic White Elephant, which offers complimentary amenities like beach gear and bikes for exploring the surrounding downtown.

The Big Apple is not the quietest or most serene city in the world, but that might not be what you're looking for. If you're looking for adventure with your nearest and dearest, this is the place to come. From exploring Manhattan on foot or braving the subway to choosing from a near-infinite number of bars and restaurants that cater to every single conceivable taste. From sauntering through Central Park to strolling alongside the Hudson River. There is a ton of stuff to do here, and let's face facts, with London and Paris taking the number two and three spots, respectively, New York City is the most Christmassy place you can visit on the planet, with the only exception being Santa's actual grotto in the North Pole.

Time Out tip: Use public transportation, such as buses and subways, instead of pricey Ubers. They're affordable and fast (read: no traffic!)

Where to stay: There are countless romantic hotels in New York City, but few are as opulent as The Baccarat, with its glittering crystal chandeliers, fresh blooms at every turn, lavish suites and serene spa.

The City of Angels is actually a sight to behold. It's as unique as every other major metropolitan city in the U.S., and the palm trees, blue skies, wide-open spaces, and beautiful, endless sandy beaches make it a fun place to visit. If you're a movie or TV buff, then so much the better; however, you don't have to be. Explore Santa Monica and Venice, where there are a lot of great restaurants and bars, plus shopping in Beverly Hills, walking in the hills, cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway or along Mulholland Drive, or hiking up to the Hollywood sign and gazing down upon the city lights below. 

Time Out tip: Los Angeles is massive, so select what area to stay in based on your individual interests (for example, West Hollywood for top-notch nightlife or Santa Monica or Venice for easy beach access) 

Where to stay: The Beverly Hills Hotel is inherently romantic with its timeless Old Hollywood charm, iconic pink façade and lush, palm-studded grounds.

While many destinations in Florida are reputed to be tourist-heavy, there’s something to be said about Miami’s vibrant art scene. Worry not: Plenty of beaches and fantastic pools will satisfy your hunger for some tanning time. Ready to splurge on dinner? With its abundance of plants, dazzling lights and romantic vibes, Komodo Miami is a sexy choice for enjoying high-end Asian fare before hitting the town at one of many bars and nightclubs like LIV or E11EVEN.

Time Out tip: Choose your beach wisely—different stretches of sand suit different vibes. 

Where to stay: With its tropical flora, tranquil spa and beachfront locale, The Palms Hotel & Spa is a gorgeous garden oasis in the middle of the city.