The best unexpected U.S. weekend getaways for 2023

Burlington’s charm as a waterfront university town is well known, but with five Vermont chefs and eateries in the running for the 2023 James Beard Awards, it’s a necessary getaway for food and drink lovers. From pastry chef Amanda Wildermuth’s tahini sundae (think sesame caramel and crumbled halva) at the Eastern Mediterranean-influenced Honey Road, to spicy brussels sprouts with a cult following (hello, citrus-garlic chili sauce, golden raisins and sunflower seeds) thanks to chef Mojo Hancy-Davis’s farm-to-table menu at May Day—plus a rotating selection of craft beers from the small experimental brewery Foam Brewers—Burlington’s restaurant and bar scene is bustling. 

Where to stay: Rustic ski lodge meets bougie boutique property at Hotel Vermont, where wood-burning fireplaces, stone walls and views of Lake Champlain are the perfect backdrops for sampling the hotel’s long list of craft beers and cocktails.

Don’t miss it: The killer onion soup and maple creme brulée at Leunig’s, Church Street’s iconic bistro.

Nearest airport: Burlington Airport (BTV)

— Laura Osborne, Time Out Montreal Editor

Fun travel fact: “America’s Oldest Seashore Resort” can be found on the southern tip of the Garden State. Yes, Cape May is technically on the Jersey Shore but it’s the antithesis of the Jersey Shore you see on MTV—in lieu of Snookie sightings, nightclubs and tanning parlors, you’ll find Victorian mansions, horse-drawn carriages, gas-lit cobblestone streets, blooming hydrangeas and a famous lighthouse.

So why should you visit Cape May? Most people will tell you the long stretches of beaches and colorful architecture alone are reason enough to come. But locals will opine it’s about the passionate community, walkability to everywhere, the parks peppered with grandiose trees, bangin’ local music scene, mom-and-pop shops, the Coast Guard base, well-manicured lawns, family-owned restaurants, impeccable homes and its charm. Cape May is also a gourmand’s dream where perfectly seasoned, fresh-caught seafood dots the menus of all the town’s best haunts. 

Where to stay: If modern and minimalist are your vibe, look no further than La Mer Beachfront Resort. The family-owned property recently underwent a major renovation and the hotel offers the island’s most swanky accommodations, swathed in beige and white hues and replete with traditional-yet-contemporary furnishings.

Don’t miss it: The Lobster House is Cape May’s most popular restaurant and the dining experience here beside the Fisherman’s Wharf is a must. Order a cold beer with steamed Maryland crabs and fried clams dockside and soak in the sights of the wharf.

Nearest airport: Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)

— Maria Tettamanti

More than 100 miles away from a major city (if you can call Tulsa, Oklahoma that) at the foothills of the Ozark Mountains you’ll find charming Bentonville, Arkansas. The birthplace of Walmart (by way of Sam Walton’s first Five and Dime, opened in 1950) has flourished beyond its retail reputation, becoming a destination for art enthusiasts, cyclists and curious travelers interested in an equally charming, and albeit less crowded, alternative to nearby Southern capitals.

Your weekend in Bentonville, which celebrates its 150th anniversary, starts with the familiar—a visit to downtown’s Walmart Museum, because why not?—before venturing to the popular: Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a sprawling cultural institution whose permanent collection of works spans five centuries and is always free to visit. Plus, its onsite chef offers a host of unique dining experiences.

Then it’s time to head to the woods. With a trail system that wraps around the museum’s 120-acre park and a host of paved paths throughout the city, Bentonville’s natural landscape is ripe for exploring on foot or two wheels. Airship Coffee at the Coler Mountain Bike Preserve is a delightful open-air cafe where you can power up or cool down between runs. 

Where to stay: 21c Museum Hotel is equal parts boutique hotel and hip gallery with a dedicated exhibition space. There are also contemporary artworks and sculptures sprinkled throughout the property.

Don’t miss it: Back for its second year this September, Format Festival combines art, music and technology. The 2023 lineup hasn’t been announced yet but last year’s acts included the likes of Phoenix and Rüfüs Du Sol.

Nearest airport: Fayetteville, Arkansas (XNA)

— Virginia Gil, Time Out USA Editor

This small but vibrant coastal town is quintessentially Maine. Rockland packs a punch with stunning views from its rocky coastline plus cultural offerings and top-notch dining. Art enthusiasts can visit The Farnsworth Art Museum or the Center for Maine Contemporary Art while those in search of local bounty can hit up the weekly farmers' market and gems like Rock City Coffee. There’s waterfront dining aplenty, but few might think to venture inland to the nationally-lauded Primo. Have a night out at the historic Myrtle Street Tavern, Liberator Brewing Company or The Strand Theater. As one of the biggest lobster shipping centers in the world, Rockland celebrates the coveted crustacean each August at the hugely popular Maine Lobster Fest. Explore Penobscot Bay on a cruise and you’ve completed a true Maine adventure. 

Where to stay: Overlooking the harbor, the luxurious, design-forward 250 Main Hotel is in the perfect location for exploring Rockland.

Don’t miss it: Walk the mile-long granite breakwater path to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the city from the water plus the chance to explore the 100+ year history of the lighthouse.

Nearest airport: Knox County Regional Airport (RKD)

— Gerrish Lopez

Just across Lake Pontchartrain from New Orleans is the charming city of Covington, where you can discover Louisiana culture at a slower pace. The quaint downtown, dotted with oak trees and historic buildings, is packed with independent boutiques and lively art galleries. Restaurants like Del Porto, Lola’s and The Gloriette stand up to the best in New Orleans, and there's no shortage of spots serving up boiled seafood or po' boys. Outdoor enthusiasts can bike the Tammany Trace, paddle the Bogue Falaya River or visit a gator ranch. There’s entertainment aplenty too: spring and fall bring outdoor concerts, the Three Rivers Arts Festival is a draw in November and monthly block parties from March through October on Columbia Street celebrate what makes Covington unique.

Where to stay: The historic, family-owned Southern Hotel offers luxurious accommodations, fabulous food and plenty of Southern hospitality.

Don’t miss it: Head to the Abita Brewing Company for locally-brewed beers featuring local ingredients. Take a tour and stick around for a bite, and maybe catch a band at one of the brewery’s frequent weekend events.

Nearest airport: New Orleans Airport (MSY)

— Gerrish Lopez

As an under-the-radar capital, Topeka’s got a surprising number of hipster brewpubs including the Blind Tiger Restaurant & Brewery, the Norsemen Brewing Company, Iron Rail Brewing and the Happy Basset Barrel House—which includes an attached dog park and a flamingo scavenger hunt to keep humans entertained between pints. Downtown is walkable and neighborhoods are parkable with a selection of locally-owned eateries like the Blue Moose Bar & Grill. Check out NOTO, the arts and entertainment district with art studios, antique stores and a monthly First Friday ArtWalk. At Gage Park, ride a mile-long mini-train and visit the new giraffe exhibit opening March 10 at the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center. Don your jumpsuit for the Evel Knievel Museum before it moves to Las Vegas, and catch a show at Topeka Civic Theatre, which hosts (they say) the country’s oldest, continuously-running community dinner theater. Topeka was founded in 1854 by antislavery colonists, and the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site commemorates the Civil Rights landmark case that ended legal segregation in public schools. 

Where to stay: The Cyrus Hotel pairs luxury with Midwest charm in a century-old building with striking city views from upper stories.

Don’t miss it: The capitol with its mural of abolitionist John Brown roaring with his rifle and Bible. Stay downstairs to roll a quarter down the sloping tile tunnel, then ascend to the cupola through a series of terrifying stairs and landings suspended in the middle of the vast dome.

Nearest airport: Kansas City Airport (MCI)

— Erika Mailman

Located a couple of hours north of the Bay Area, Mendocino feels like a storybook out of a romance novel. The area blends charming New England architecture with a dramatic California coastline. And Mendocino’s remote nature means it never feels like it’s trying too hard or overcrowded. Imagine charming inns with roaring fires, homemade breakfast, and views of waves crashing on the rocky shore. Restaurants that serve fish caught nearby earlier that day. A quaint downtown with Victorian buildings turned into independent shops. Trails that lead you through redwoods and onto the beach. 

Where to stay: SCP Mendocino Inn and Farm, a recently refreshed bed and breakfast that features an 1867 country manor, a modern lodge, adorable onsite llamas and homemade breakfast delivered to your room.

Don’t miss it: Newcomer restaurant Fog Eater Cafe is a fully vegan, New Orleans-inspired eatery that draws a crowd. 

Nearest airport: Charles M. Schulz-Sonoma County Airport (STS)

— Clara Hogan

An enchanting New England town tucked away in a particularly gorgeous section of the Berkshires, Lenox is the perfect home base for a trip spent exploring Western Massachusetts. Culture vultures have long flocked to the town thanks to Tanglewood, the summertime home of the Boston Symphony, and the innovative local theater group Shakespeare & Company. Now, upscale accommodations like 33 Main and the recently renovated Cornell Inn are providing a more luxurious mountain escape. (Those looking for true luxury should pencil some time in at Miraval Berkshires.) History lovers can arrange to tour nearby architectural stunners like Ventfort Hall and The Mount, the one-time home of author Edith Wharton. A day spent taking in the past can also be complemented with some more of-the-moment culinary offerings in downtown Lenox like the intimate wine bar Brava.

Where to stay: The Lenox Collection is a trio of historic inns in the heart of the city.

Don’t miss it: A picnic spent taking in a live concert at Tanglewood is a local tradition for a reason. Check out this summer’s offerings, which include highlights like a Ragtime Symphonic Concert.

Nearest airport: Bradley International Airport (BDL)

— Will Gleason, North America Content Director

Just one hour from bustling Asheville lies the charming city of Greenville, which tends to fly (mostly) under the radar— for now, at least. Its walkable downtown area is chock-full of quaint shops like the nostalgia-inducing Mast General Store, diverse dining options (ranging from delectable Mexican street food at Pap’s Tacos to contemporary Italian at Jianna), and an abundance of local artwork. We recommend grabbing coffee at Methodical Coffee and heading to Falls Park on the Reedy, which offers excellent views of the surrounding falls. In the afternoon, refuel with an ice-cold beer at Southernside Brewing Co . as you stroll or bike along the 22-mile-long Swamp Rabbit Trail.

Where to stay: Situated right on the banks of the Reedy River, the luxe Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville —which just opened last August—is the perfect place to stay when in town.

Don’t miss it: Greenville hosts over 300 events each year, including the trademark Fall for Greenville, a three-day festival that puts the city’s many food, drink, and entertainment offerings on full display.

Nearest airport: Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP)

— Lauren Dana Ellman

Mystic, a small coastal Connecticut town once known for its shipyard and seaport is now a quaint New England getaway full of destination-worthy dining. Metro-North trains directly from New York City and a fully walkable downtown make Mystic an easy weekend getaway, no car required. The scenic walks by the water, small shops and boutiques, plus a longstanding independent bookstore make for an excellent few days of entertainment between eating pizza at Nana’s Bakery, noshing on pastries at Sift Bake Shop, sipping craft brews at Barley Head Brewery or slurping up oysters during happy hour at The Shipwright’s Daughter.

Where to stay: The Whaler’s Inn, a historic 45-room boutique property in the heart of town that’s dog-friendly and welcomes guests in the lobby with a fireplace, warm beverages and cookies.

Don’t miss it: Book dinner at Oyster Club, a locally beloved and locally owned restaurant serving farm-to-table upscale fare (don’t skip the cornbread with honey butter, or anything with seafood), plus high-end cocktails. Chef Renee Touponce was recently announced as a James Beard Award Semifinalist.

Nearest airport: Providence T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)

— Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Kingston, NY may have a rich history as the state’s first capital, but it is so much more than its past. Located 91 miles outside of New York City, it offers a fun weekend getaway with great hikes, historic landmarks, trendy stores and hangouts like Milne Antiques and Kingston Standard Brewing Co., good food at restaurants like Ship to Shore and Lola Pizza, and a robust arts scene centered around the Ulster Performing Arts Center that operates inside a restored 1926 theater. The city is also home to festivals, including the Artists Soapbox Derby (August), and the Trolley Museum of New York, which offers a 1.5-mile ride on weekends and holidays along the Rondout Creek waterfront to Kingston Point Park.

Where to stay: The Hotel Kinsley for a beautiful, historic stay or the Newkirk, an entire 1856 home you can rent on Airbnb.

Don’t miss it: Rough Draft, a bookstore and taproom, where you can enjoy a pint with a good book and friends.

Nearest airport: Newburgh Airport (SWF)

— Shaye Weaver, Time Out New York Editor

The seaside town of Narragansett is just 22 minutes by car from the Gilded Age glamour of Newport, but you’d never know it. Narragansett is beloved for its laid-back and low-key vibes. It’s also a popular spot for surfing, and travelers of all experience levels can sign up for lessons and/or rent gear from local businesses like Narragansett Surf & Skate Shop. Whether or not you choose to actually explore the water—you can, alternatively, simply walk along the beach and soak up the sun on your own—hit up neighborhood faves like Cool Beans Cafe for acai bowls or Fuel Coffee Bar for a cold brew and a fresh pastry.

Where to stay: The 31-room Shore House blends nautical charm and Victorian elegance; plus, we’d be remiss not to highlight the beachy-chic accommodations and Instagram-worthy ocean views.

Don’t miss it: Snag a table at The Coast Guard House Restaurant and savor fresh seafood like freshly shucked oysters, hearty New England clam chowder, and gooey lobster mac.

Nearest airport: Westerly Airport (WST)

— Lauren Dana Ellman

This welcoming West Michigan town combines local charm with a beautiful lakefront setting to provide visitors with the platonic ideal of a midwestern beach getaway. Long known for its vibrant arts community thanks to the Saugatuck Center for the Arts and the Chicago Art Institute’s Oxbow School of Art and Artists’ Residency, the laid-back destination is now emerging as a culinary hot spot. Virtue Cider, founded by the former brewmaster of Chicago’s Goose Island Brewery, turns out award-winning cider while Pennyroyal Café & Provisions, helmed by former Chopped winner Missy Corey, serves elevated takes on local specialties like fried perch. Meanwhile, James Beard-nominated eatery The Southerner serves dangerously (in a good way) spicy fried chicken sandwiches. The town has also been long known for welcoming LGBTQ+ travelers thanks, in part, to lively party spots like The Dunes Resort.

Where to stay: The Lake Shore Resort, just north of Saugatuck, provides stunning views of Lake Michigan from a dramatic bluff.

Don’t miss it: The Venetian Festival, taking place this year on July 28 and 29, sees creative, over-the-top floating floats and decorated boats take to the water in a spectacular nighttime parade.

Nearest airport: Muskegon County Airport (MKG)

— Will Gleason, North America Content Director

Nestled between Tampa and Fort Meyers, Sarasota boasts nearly 40 miles of white sand beaches and wildlife along Florida’s balmy Gulf shoreline. But this quaint beach town also touts a quirky history and some serious urban amenities. Circus mogul John Ringling moved his shows here for the winter in 1927. Since then, the city’s become an eclectic cultural hub, home to the renowned Sarasota School of Architecture, numerous respected art programs, museums and performance venues.

Work up an appetite exploring Sarasota’s galleries, botanical gardens and famed keys like Siesta and Longboat, then bounce around its bustling waterfront downtown for dinner and nightlife—but not before indulging in homemade pies from Yoder’s Amish Village. This spring, Circus Sarasota celebrates its 25th anniversary, and the 16th season of Sarasota’s Forks & Corks Food and Wine Festival kicks off on April 20.

Where to stay: The Lido Beach House’s charming mid-century modern digs are a short, scenic bridge away from downtown.

Don’t miss it: John Ringling's former home, Ca’ d’Zan, is a Venetian Gothic-style stunner with ornate interiors and sweeping views of Sarasota Bay. It also served as the location for Miss Havisham’s dilapidated mansion in the 1996 film Great Expectations.

Nearest airport: Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) 

— Falyn Wood, Time Out Miami Editor

Located 90 miles south of Las Vegas, Laughlin, Nevada is a smaller, quieter version of Las Vegas with a small-town feel. With less than 10,000 permanent residents, Laughlin boasts eight casinos plus dozens of casino resort restaurants like the Western-themed Claim Jumper and bars with live bands like Losers Lounge along the Colorado River. Surrounded by the Mojave Desert and boasting a beautiful mountain backdrop, Laughlin is a paradise for gamblers and outdoor enthusiasts who can kayak or river cruise along the Colorado River that runs through the heart of town, hike the Colorado River Heritage Trails that runs parallel the water, explore stone mazes at Laughlin Labyrinths, and chill in a poolside cabana at Don Laughlin’s Riverside Resort and Harrah’s Laughlin Beach Resort & Casino. Nearby, sunbathers can enjoy Lake Mohave’s 200 miles of shoreline and explore its coves and wildlife, drive Route 66, visit Hoover Dam, and visit Arizona’s oldest distillery, Desert Diamond Distillery.

Where to stay: Most of Laughlin’s 9,000 hotel rooms are less than $50 a night. Aquarius Casino Resort is the largest.;

Don’t miss it: Stroll along Laughlin Riverwalk, a paved walkway along the Colorado River that connects most of the casinos.

Nearest airport: Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport (IFP)

— Lauren Mack

Tucked in the rolling hills of southwestern Pennsylvania, Pittsburgh offers a getaway that combines city amenities, lots of green space, and plenty of charm. The city dazzles in the springtime with beautiful parks (meander through Point State Park and visit Blue Slide Park made famous by rapper Mac Miller). On a rainy day, head to The Warhol Museum dedicated to Pittsburgh’s own Andy Warhol; there’s a special exhibit on The Velvet Underground coming up. A ride on the incline, a funicular, is a must for a thrilling view of the city. Eat pierogies (and lots more) at the renowned Apteka, which specializes in central and eastern European cuisine, then grab tiki drinks at Hidden Harbor.

Where to stay: Kimpton Hotel Monaco is located Downtown within walking distance of bars and restaurants as well as transit access.

Don’t miss it: Picklesburgh, this summertime food festival celebrates all things pickled—the weirder, the better.

Nearest airport: Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT)

— Rossilynne Skena Culgan, Things To Do Editor, Time Out New York