Thinking about taking time off? Vacations are more than just seeing some beautiful sites; they have some scientific benefits to your health as well. Vacations can relieve stress symptoms like headaches and backaches and help you sleep better.
Studies have shown that those who omitted vacations for five years straight were 30 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack than those that took at least a week off each year.
Need a vacation from your day to day work grind? Why not check out these 10 best getaways in USA.
1. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is the oldest U.S. state capital and has entertained tourists for more than 400 years. As you walk around Santa Fe, you may feel like you are in Europe with a unique and colorful architecture.
If you enjoy art, you need to stroll through the various art galleries and beautiful museums. Stroll through the historic main plaza and shop gorgeous works of arts and browse unique, handmade jewelry.
2. Tuscon, Arizona
Check out charming Tucson for some desert warmth. If you enjoy hiking, you have to explore Saguaro National Park and view the breathtaking cactus trails in the Sabino Canyon.
There are no issues finding the sun in Tuscon with the sun shining 85 percent of the time. After the sun sets, there is plenty of nightlife. Check out a show in the Gaslight Theatre or browse local shops in downtown at the Catalina Foothills district.
3. Savannah, Georgia
Take in some southern charm as you head to historic Savannah. Take in some historic home like Mercer Williams House. Stroll the streets to find some of the best Southern restaurants and trendy cafes.
Savannah has lots of charm in the Historic District’s verdant squares. Like a good ghost story? Savannah is known for creepy graveyards and ghost tours.
Take a carriage ride through the town and check out all the Spanish moss canopies on your stroll. City Market is a great place to pick up a few goodies to remember your trip. You can also take a quick car ride for a beach trip to Tybee Island.
4. Napa Valley, California
Enjoy a great glass of wine? Then Napa Valley should be on your travel wish list. Beautiful Napa resembles Tuscany with the endless hills and vineyards.
You can check out big production wineries like Robert Mondavi or smaller estates like Frog’s Leap or Hess Winery for customized tours. You must see the beautiful Castello di Amorosa Winery that resembles a 13-century Tuscan castle, and it even has a drawbridge, dungeon, and moat.
After visiting Napa, you may get the urge for an Italian escape. Read more here to learn about amazing Italian vineyards for some wine trip inspiration.
5. Big Sur, California
Check out Big Sur in California for views competing with the Mediterranean. Big Sur boasts 90 miles of coastline with the Santa Lucia Mountains. This location is paradise for nature lovers with hiking up the Manuel Peak or wandering through Monterey County’s redwood groves at the Limekiln State Park.
Check out the cascading waterfalls at McWay Falls. Take a scenic drive down Highway One from San Francisco that has inspired many famous artists. See why this beautiful destination is called “American Riviera”—you won’t be bored on this trip.
6. Saint Augustine, Florida
Feel like you stepped into ancient Spain as you explore historic, beautiful Saint Augustine. This city is just 30 minutes from Jacksonville but feels like a country of its own with historic, unique architecture that still stands more than 400 years later.
When you are done spending time at the beach, visit the Old Jail and the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument should be on your must-see list. You can also check out Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, ghost tours at St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum, or see musket firing demonstrations at Colonial Quarter.
7. Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina
Want to see a castle but don’t have the time or budget to go to Europe? You’re in luck—check out the amazing Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina. George Washington Vanderbilt built this 8,000-acre mansion estate complete with superb gardens, its own winery, 65 fireplaces, and library.
You could spend an entire day at the Biltmore learning about wine-making, tasting wines, visiting the gardens, and exploring the farm and petting zoo. There are other great activities in the Asheville area like hiking the Appalachian Trail or diving into the swimming area of Pisgah National Forest. Take in some local restaurants and breweries as you relax in the artsy downtown.
8. Sarasota, Florida
If you dream of white sand and sparkling blue water, Sarasota is the perfect spot. Siesta Key Beach is a free public beach with miles of coast and lots of seashells.
Try a hike at Myakka State Park to see the prairies and wetlands. You can then take a canoe down the raging Myakka River.
Enjoy some tasty citrus from the local farmers market as you relax in the sun. You may even decide you want a second home in beautiful and affordable Sarasota.
9. Martha’s Vineyard
If you enjoy relaxing, laid-back beaches, you should check out Martha’s Vineyard which is about 8 miles from the coast of Cape Cod. Martha’s Vineyard is a popular destination for some of the most famous people like President Obama, President Clinton, Reese Witherspoon, and more.
Take in the low-key town vibes with picturesque cottages and marine industry shops. Rent a bike and stroll at your leisure. You can also check out a laid-back dining atmosphere in your sandals or take a ferry ride to explore even more.
10. Vail Village, Colorado
Vail is much more than a ski town. It resembles a mountain village in Switzerland. The Eagles Nest Wilderness and Holy Cross Wilderness Areas are a short drive from town and offer scenic hiking trails and some great wildlife viewing opportunities.
Don’t worry Vail is not cold in the summer. The temperatures are balmy and the sun shines frequently. You can explore the outdoors in this glorious weather as you visit the local lakes and streams for some popular trout fishing.
Best Getaways in USA Final Thoughts
As you can see, you don’t have to travel far to have a relaxing vacation. These best getaways in USA will help you renew your energy and give you some much-needed family time. Check out our site today for other travel advice to make your vacation unforgettable like these vacation planning tips.