The Most Romantic Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Whether you’re in search of a city escape or country retreat, a spa resort or a cabin in the woods, these romantic places are the perfect place to relax and reconnect with your partner. Even if you don’t yet know what you’d like to do or how far you’re willing to travel, let these romantic getaway ideas – organized by state – inspire and guide your next couples vacation.

Note: Check back periodically as the U.S. News Travel team continues to add new romantic getaway ideas to this page.

You can find romance in Malibu or Napa Valley, but don’t overlook small towns such as Carmel-by-the-Sea, a fairytale-like village with a lovely beach, or Ojai (just outside of Los Angeles), where hiking trails and boutique lodging options abound. You might also consider one of California’s national parks for your romantic escape. Click here to discover the most romantic getaways in California.

In Colorado, you can soak in natural hot springs, ride the world’s highest cog railroad to Pikes Peak, spend the week at a dude ranch or explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park (as well as the famously haunted Stanley Hotel in nearby Estes Park). Of course, there are endless opportunities for outdoor sports such as skiing, with Telluride among the most beautiful ski towns in the country. Click here to find the best romantic getaway in Colorado for you and your partner.

Whether you want to escape the crowds at a lesser-known beach destination like Amelia Island or spend a few days with the Mouse at a Disney resort, there are plenty of places to enjoy a couples getaway in Florida. Romantic hotels, laid-back island atmospheres and ample amenities await you in the Sunshine State. Browse the best options here.

If you’re looking for an upscale destination resort with sandy beaches, romantic dinners, couples massages and the like, there are plenty of highly rated options in Georgia – from The Cloister at Sea Island to the Jekyll Island Club Resort. Couples can also find unique options such as lodging on a vineyard or in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Browse the most romantic getaways in Georgia here.

Chicago is a classic choice for a romantic weekend in Illinois. But you and your beau can also escape to “The Middle of Everywhere” (otherwise known as Ottawa) for outdoor adventures in four different state parks; Galena, whose charming downtown area features a historic and elegant bed-and-breakfast; or Zion, where you can while away your days on the shores of Lake Michigan. These are the most romantic getaways in Illinois.

If you’re searching for a beach vacation with your beau, Michigan should be on your short list. You can stay at the historic Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island – only reachable by boat – or climb the dunes (and then slide back down) at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park. Explore small beach towns, get out into nature, sample Traverse City’s wineries and breweries, or find an urban oasis in a romantic Detroit hotel. Choose a romantic getaway in Michigan here.

It’s true that Cape May is for lovers, and that New Jersey is known for its sandy beaches. But you may be surprised to discover that the Garden State is aptly named for its farms (national suppliers of blueberries, tomatoes, peaches and more) with B&Bs as well as its charming river towns, where boutique shops, cafes and lodging await couples in search of romance. These are the top romantic getaways in New Jersey.

Nothing says romance like lakeside luxury and historic hotels in the Empire State. Relive movie magic in Manhattan, go glamping in the Catskills, enjoy the royal treatment at a Finger Lakes castle and more. The options for a romantic weekend (or longer) in New York state are endless, but this list narrows down the best of the best.

There are many reasons to visit North Carolina for your next couples vacation, most notably Asheville – for its ample hikes and growing restaurant scene – and the Outer Banks, which boasts beautiful beaches and oceanfront accommodations. If you’re looking for something perhaps a bit more under the radar, head to Winston-Salem for wineries or spend a few days on Bald Head Island, a remote escape just off the coast. These are the most romantic getaways in North Carolina.

Did you know Ohio has more than a dozen castles – some of which offer overnight accommodations – or that you can spend the night at a winery? Ohio also offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, from hiking in Hocking Hills State Park (where you’ll want to overnight at the romantic Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls) to boating on Lake Erie, surrounded by waterfront towns such as Geneva-on-the-Lake. Of course, there are also plenty of city escapes. Click here to see some of the best romantic getaways in Ohio.

In Pennsylvania, you can spot shooting stars at an International Dark Sky Park; indulge in chocolate-infused spa treatments; and stroll hand in hand along the Delaware River in New Hope, known as an especially LGBTQ-friendly destination. Lovebirds will also find couples-only and all-inclusive resorts in Pennsylvania (sometimes a combo of both) – including the Poconos’ iconic Cove Haven Resorts, with heart- and Champagne glass-shaped hot tubs. Discover the most romantic getaways in Pennsylvania here.

If you like wine, plan a romantic retreat in Texas Hill Country, where you can sample the region’s signature reds on a wine tasting tour. Music lovers, meanwhile, should head to nearby Austin, the “Live Music Capital of the World.” For history and delicious Mexican food, San Antonio is not to be missed; check out Guadalupe Mountains National Park for tent camping and other outdoor activities. There are so many places to enjoy a couples getaway in Texas; these are some of the best.

There’s nothing like watching the wild horses roam on Chincoteague Island (where you can also camp on the beach) or traversing the scenic Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park – two iconic experiences in Virginia. If an upscale destination resort sounds more appealing, book a stay at an estate with a five-star spa or a hotel with natural hot springs. Browse the best romantic getaways in Virginia here.

If you’re looking for a romantic weekend getaway in the Midwest, consider a trip to Wisconsin. Here, Door County is especially popular thanks to year-round outdoor activities amid stunning scenery, while Lake Geneva attracts couples (as well as families) to its beaches, boating and historic inns. Visit Eau Claire for eclectic small-town charm, or reserve a suite at a romantic waterfront resort with a spa. These are the most romantic getaways in Wisconsin.