When you think of a great weekend getaway, what comes to mind? Some people might automatically think of popular tourist destinations like the busy and loud New York City or the dipped-in-love Paris. But those places can be expensive and crowded.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable escape without breaking the bank or dealing with large crowds, check out some of these lesser-known travel spots.
From the breathtaking beaches of Spain to the rugged mountains in Tennessee, there’s something for everyone waiting to be discovered. So, grab your bags and get ready for a fantastic adventure!
1. Bathe in The Sun at Spain’s Breathtaking Beaches
If you’re looking for a place to relax and soak up some sun, Spain is the perfect destination. With over 3000 miles of coastline, the country boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
From the golden sand beaches of Costa del Sol to the stunning cliff-side beaches of Santorini, you’ll be spoiled for choice. And if you’re looking for a little more excitement, you can try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing.
Spain is also home to some of the best food in the world. From tapas to paella, you’ll be able to indulge in all of your favorite dishes. And, of course, no trip to Spain would be complete without trying a glass of the country’s famous wines.
2. Take A Hike in The Rugged Mountains of Tennessee
The soul-nourishing views from the top of a mountain are unlike anything else. And there’s no better place to experience them than in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee. With over 1500 named peaks and 300 miles of trails, the Smokies are a hiker’s paradise.
If you’re not up for a hike, there are still many things to do in Pigeon Forge, like heading to the gateway of the Smokies.
You can go zip-lining, visit Dollywood, or ride on the Gatlinburg Sky Lift. And if you love the outdoors, be sure to check out the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
3. Inhale the Fresh Air at the Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North America, and for a good reason. Niagara Falls is actually made up of three different waterfalls.
- Horseshoe Falls,
- The American Falls, and
- Bridal Veil Falls.
There are a lot of things to do in Niagara Falls. You can take a ride on the Maid of the Mist boat, go hiking in the Niagara Gorge, or even visit one of the many wineries in the area. And if you’re looking for a thrill, you can try your hand at white-water rafting.
4. Opt for Retail Therapy in Portland, Oregon
Whether it’s your ‘budgeted’ spending money or not, we could all use a little retail therapy from time to time. And there’s no better place to do it than in the shopper’s paradise – Portland.
The city is home to a ton of independent boutiques and stores. You can find everything from crowd-cheering vintage clothing to intricately handmade jewelry without taxes.
Portland is also a great place to walk around and explore. You can stroll through the many parks, visit the International Rose Test Garden, or even ride on the historic Streetcar. Just remember, rent a bike if you plan on going downtown – it’ll save you a lot of time (and frustration).
5. Dance the Night Away in New Orleans
No list of travel spots would be complete without mentioning the Big Easy – New Orleans. The city is known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. You can find live music on almost every corner, and the party doesn’t stop until the sun comes up.
There’s more to New Orleans than just drinking and dancing, though. The city is also home to many historical landmarks, such as the French Quarter and St. Louis Cathedral. Be sure to try the city’s famous gumbo and po’boy sandwiches. And if you love food, you’ll be in heaven.
6. Go Skinny Dipping in Alaska’s glacier-fed Lakes
The spine-chilling waters of a glacier-fed lake are not for the faint of heart. But there’s nothing like taking a dip in a cold, refreshing lake.
Just make sure you choose a safe spot – away from any icebergs! And if you’re looking for an extra dose of adventure, try skinny dipping in one of Alaska’s glacier-fed lakes.
There’s more to this covered-in-ice state than just glacier-fed lakes, though. You can also go dog sledding, visit the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Museum, or even see the Northern Lights. Just pack a coat as it gets pretty cold up there.
7. Embrace the Great Unconformity in Grand Canyon National Park
The Grand Canyon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. And rightfully so – it’s one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. The canyon is over a mile deep and 18 miles wide, and it’s filled with an amazing array of plants and animals.
There are a lot of things to do in the Grand Canyon. You can go hiking, rafting, or even take a mule ride down to the bottom. And if you’re looking for a challenge, you can try your hand at rock climbing. Bring plenty of water as you’re going to sweat, and the historic rocks can get pretty hot.
8. Ride the Craziest Roller Coaster in Valencia
If you’re a thrill-seeker, you need to add Six Flags Magic Mountain to your travel list. The park is home to 19 world-record-breaking roller coasters, including Superman: The Escape – with a speed of 161km/h (only!).
The park also has a ton of other rides and attractions, such as water slides, shows, and a ropes course. All it takes is a lot of prayers and a strong stomach. There’s something for everyone at Six Flags Magic Mountain.
But that’s not all Valencia has to offer. The city is also home to several museums, including the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Fine Arts. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, there are many hotels and resorts in the area.
9. Meet and Greet Disney Characters in Orlando, Florida
Orlando is the perfect travel destination for families with young children. The city is home to many theme parks, including Walt Disney World and Universal Studios.
You can find Disney characters walking around all of the parks. Don’t forget to bring your autograph book. And if your kids are into meeting their favorite characters, they’ll be in for a treat.
In addition to the theme parks, Orlando is also home to many other attractions. You can visit the Kennedy Space Center, swim with the dolphins at SeaWorld, or even go on a safari at Busch Gardens.
You’ll need your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and a love of animals to enjoy this last one.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – a few of the best travel spots to check out for an enthralling weekend. No matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to your liking.
What’s important, though, is that you pack light and smart, prepare to be overwhelmed by the beauty, and go with the flow. Trust us – your weekend will be unforgettable.
Happy travels!
