Traveling offers a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life, especially when enjoyed with your loved one to keep the romance alive. Cherishing this quality time is essential, so we’ve compiled a list of top destinations in the USA for couples to help you plan your ideal romantic getaway, whether it’s for an anniversary, holiday, or weekend retreat.
1. New York City, New York
For an added touch of romance, consider pairing breathtaking views over Manhattan or any of New York City’s neighborhoods with a candlelit dinner or drinks at one of the city’s numerous rooftop bars. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as these spots tend to fill up quickly.
New York City offers a wealth of romantic activities perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating your honeymoon, anniversary, or simply enjoying a getaway for two.
New York City is truly one of the most romantic getaways in the United States. But it’s hardly surprising because there are so many romantic activities to enjoy with your partner in the city.
For some, the best time to travel to New York as a couple is the winter. Because at this time of the year, you can have a ride on a carriage through the snowy Central Park. Moreover, spending some time holding hands while skating on the ice rink in front of Rockefeller Center is absolutely romantic for some travelers.
But as a couple, you can also experience many things in New York at other times of the year. A visit to the observatories, such as the Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building Observatory, is incredibly popular. It is, therefore, hardly surprising how many marriage proposals take place here every day.
2. Sonoma County, California
For a serene and romantic getaway in the United States, consider Sonoma County, a delightful alternative to its more famous neighbor, Napa Valley.
Sonoma County boasts everything you could desire for a couple’s trip. It features superb wineries with charming tasting rooms where you can savor exquisite wines. Known for its light, fruity Pinot Noirs and creamy Chardonnays, Sonoma also cultivates a variety of other interesting wines such as Grenache, Zinfandel (akin to Primitivo), and Gewürztraminer.
Beyond wine tasting, Sonoma County offers a plethora of romantic activities. Explore the Sonoma Coast, where the picturesque town of Jenner beckons with its two beautiful beaches separated by the Russian River’s end, flowing into the Pacific Ocean. Goat Head Rock Beach and Jenner Beach are both breathtaking spots to unwind.
Indulge in delectable seafood at Bodega Bay before venturing inland for a peaceful walk among towering redwoods in places like Armstrong Woods. Enhance your relaxation with a rejuvenating couples’ spa day at the OSMOSIS Japanese-inspired spa, known for its invigorating cedar enzyme bath. Wrap up your day with a delightful meal at one of the trendy local restaurants in the Barlow area of Sebastopol.
Sonoma County promises a romantic retreat filled with unforgettable experiences, making it an ideal destination for couples seeking tranquility and intimacy.*
3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled in the heart of Tennessee’s Great Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg stands out as one of the premier destinations in the USA for couples. With its vibrant tourism scene, you and your significant other will discover endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee, USA
For an unforgettable experience, consider visiting Gatlinburg during the Christmas season when the weather is delightful and the array of winter activities is abundant. At Ober Gatlinburg, indulge in ice skating, skiing, snow tubing, and even try your hand at ice bumper cars amidst the winter wonderland.
If you’re keen to sample authentic Tennessee moonshine, a visit to Sugarlands Distillery is a must. Renowned for its moonshine tastings, rated as the top activity in Gatlinburg, it’s the perfect adult outing to enjoy with your partner.
If you’re looking to avoid tourist trap restaurants, definitely pay a visit to Flapjack’s Pancake Cabin. Most people stop to visit the Pancake Pantry in Downtown Gatlinburg, but they end up waiting in a 2+ hour line for breakfast. Flapjack’s serves pancakes that are just as good without the wait! Stop in for a romantic breakfast with your partner.
For the coziest accommodations, I would recommend renting a cabin. You and your partner will be able to cook meals and enjoy the views all while being close to downtown. Most cabins come with game rooms too, which is perfect for a couples pool or foosball tournament!
Lastly, you and your partner have to visit CLIMB Works Smoky Mountains. This will be the most adventurous and educational zip-line tour you’ll ever take. You’ll start the tour with an exciting ATV ride up the mountain, which is perfect if you and your partner are thrill seekers.
4. Disney World, Florida
Remember Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty or, Beauty and the Beast? These Disney movies allow you to enter a world where dreams come true and ends with the couple living happily ever after. Think of how wonderful it is to be transported back in time to the happiest place on Earth, with your beloved, at Disney World, Florida.
If you are planning a romantic trip together, try to skip the peak season. Make the trip relaxing and yours, by aiming for quieter periods like January, February or late November.
If you have only time for 1 park, then Animal Kingdom is by far the best of the 4 main parks. Have fun exploring the Kilimanjaro Safari at the Animal Kingdom, as you get to experience all sorts of animals from different continents of the world. And within the same park, try out Pandora, a theme park inspired by James Cameron’s Avatar, featuring floating mountains, alien wildlife, and bioluminescent plants.
If you are a Beauty and the Beast fan, try booking your lunch in advance at the Be Our Guest themed restaurant, as the food is delicious and reasonably priced. To save time on queues, use Disney My Experience App to schedule fast pass reservations for the popular rides. Bring a water bottle as there are many water fountains to refill your bottle.
Book a room at Disney’s Grand Floridian, the crown jewel of Walt Disney World’s resorts, located one stop away from the park. This is an elegantly maintained Victorian-style hotel, where you get to appreciate its beautifully manicured grounds and romantic beaches. Get a room with a view room of Cinderella’s castle so that you can watch the spectacular evening fireworks at the Magic Kingdom, from the balcony of your room.
Just enjoy the magical experience together in one of the best places to visit in the USA for couples and fall more in love with each other while you are at Walt Disney World.
5. Denver, Colorado
The capital of Colorado, Denver is one of those cities that truly has something for every taste. There are plenty of amazing areas to stay in Denver, incredible activities from outdoor recreation to nightlife, and some of the best restaurants in the state of Colorado. And when it comes to traveling as a couple, it doesn’t matter if you’ve been together for 50 years or 50 days, these are some of the best couple activities in Denver for wide-eyed romantics.
Start your trip by checking in at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco – a downtown Denver hotel renowned for elegant rooms, deluxe bath amenities, bold colors, and playful furnishings. Not only will it set off the romantic vibe, but its central location means easy transportation throughout your stay.
In the evening, take your sweetie by the hand and stroll under the twinkling lights of Larimer Square. This is Denver’s most historic block and a fantastic place for a romantic dinner.
For some sensual evening entertainment, join other canoodling couples at The Clocktower Cabaret. This classy establishment provides top-notch entertainment in burlesque, comedy, drag, circus acts, and more, all in an intimate Paris-like setting. Or if that isn’t your thing, head into Denver’s RiNo neighborhood instead for some live music. A stop at Nocturne for some soulful jazz and creative cocktails will delight your senses.
With generally mild weather and over 300 days of sunshine each year, Denver is a year-round travel destination and one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US. But the weather can shift dramatically and swiftly. Be sure to check the forecast during your trip, and layers are always recommended for temperature adjustments.
6. Lake Tahoe, Nevada and California
A trip to Lake Tahoe allows you to visit two states as this stunning region straddles both Nevada and California. Lake Tahoe is a beautiful lake in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with towns, lakeside communities and mountain resorts around it.
One of the reasons it is an excellent place for couples is because, in Lake Tahoe, there are things to do for couples for all seasons. There are plenty of fabulous restaurants, such as Café Fiore, Sage Room Steakhouse, and Boathouse on the Pier.
In summer, couples can go on a romantic hike for two in Emerald Bay State Park and stop to admire breathtaking views or go paddling in the lake in a canoe or kayak for two.
But if you can make it, do go during winter as this is a time when Lake Tahoe is incredibly romantic, with a backdrop of snow-covered mountains. A fun thing to do for couples is to go on a romantic sleigh ride at night.
All the resorts have a programmer of events, with DJs, music and parties. For boutique accommodation away from noisy families stay at Deerfield Lodge. For a romantic stay to impress your other half, book a room at the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort.
7. Maui, Hawaii
For a romantic and unforgettable vacation for couples, Maui is by far one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US. Everything about this Hawaiian island is perfect for couples, from the dazzling beaches to the waterfall hikes.
Some of the most unique things to do while visiting include snorkeling with sea turtles, driving on the Road to Hana, attending a luau, and hiking to the Nakalele Blow Hole.
There are lodging options for whatever kind of romance you imagine. Those who like luxury should check out the resorts of Wailea, especially the stunning Andaz Maui. More nature-loving couples may prefer an Airbnb in Paia or a tentalow on the beaches of Olowalu.
Regardless of where you stay, it’s worth driving around the island to try out the different restaurants! The best spots are Monkeypod, Da Kitchen, Maui Brewing Company, and Ka’ana Kitchen. Make sure you try the poke, kalua pork and the spam musubi while you are here!
Whether you travel to Maui for an anniversary, honeymoon, or just for fun, it is sure to be the trip of a lifetime. Couples can get their relaxation in at the beach and their adventurous fill by hiking, boating, or even taking a helicopter tour. With the gorgeous, colorful sunsets topping off any day, no one can resist the beauty of Maui.
8. Miraval Berkshires Resort, Massachusetts
Miraval Berkshires Resort in Lenox, Massachusetts is one of the romantic getaways in the United States for couples. Everything you need for a couple’s getaway is provided at the resort. This all-inclusive wellness resort provides 3 gourmet healthy meals a day as well as snacks and smoothies.
They use local products, and the daily specials are not to be missed. If your schedule is packed, there is a grab and go area for breakfast or lunch on the go. Room service is also available for a small fee.
There are wonderful experiences included as well as additional available for a fee. Complementary activities range from high rope adventure activities, yoga, and meditation, to hikes and cooking classes. The resort encourages you to challenge yourself and helps you strengthen your relationship through fun challenging activities.
Miraval Resort Berkshires provides everything you need for a relaxing and fun getaway so you can focus on sharing the experience together. The Spa is another great way to relax and get pampered.
Miraval Berkshires Resort is great for all seasons because the daily activities schedule change and seasonal activities added. In the winter, you can cross country ski or enjoy more opportunities for art experiences such as pottery classes. In the spring, summer and fall there’s paddle boarding and kayaking. Miraval takes all the stress out of traveling so you can simply enjoy the experiences together.
9. Austin, Texas
When it comes to cities perfect for couples looking to have a quick getaway, you can’t beat the laid-back nature and beautiful views of Austin, Texas.
Featuring a fantastic food scene, a wide variety of fun things to do, and of course plenty of music, the Live Music Capital of the World is one of the best places to visit in the USA for couples.
While you’re there, be sure to catch a live show, eat plenty of barbecue and TexMex (rivalries abound, but Franklin Barbecue and Juan in a Million are legends in their respective cuisines), peruse the quirky boutiques and famous street art along South Congress, and watch the bats fly out from under the South Congress Bridge at sunset.
No couples trip to Austin would be complete without hitting the water, either: Lady Bird Lake is the perfect place to rent a canoe or kayak for two and admire the skyline from the water, or in the summer months, you could head to Barton Springs to experience Austin’s most beloved swimming pool (fed by natural spring water, not chlorine!).
During your visit, be sure to head up to Mount Bonnell, considered one of the most romantic spots in the city, for a picturesque sunset.
And, of course, you’ll want to take a trip out to the stunning Texas Hill Country, where wineries, swimming holes, and hikes abound: Wimberley, Fredericksburg, and Dripping Springs are just a few of the most popular day trips from Austin.
There are more unique, boutique hotels in Austin that you could count on, but for an iconic option right on South Congress, try the Austin Motel!
10. Sedona, Arizona
There are so many romantic things to do in Sedona for couples. Sedona is a gem of a place to visit and with it being only two hours from Phoenix, it is perfect for a little getaway. Sedona gets quite hot in the summer so the best times to visit are in the Spring and Fall.
One of the best things to do in Sedona is to go hiking. Two of the top rated hikes are Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge. Cathedral Rock is an amazing place to hike to at sunset. You really cannot get a better view for sunset than at Cathedral Rock. It is only a 1.2 miles trail and fairly easy but make sure you bring plenty of water.
If you are not interested in hiking, you could always go on a wine tour around Sedona. Wine tasting in Sedona lets you experience Arizona wine country and visit some beautiful vineyards. It’s the perfect way to experience the surrounding area around Sedona and the red rocks.
The food scene in Sedona is amazing. Try the Vault Uptown for a delicious meal and cocktails. This place has a great menu and also amazing views over Sedona. You can stay at the Amara Resort and Spa for a nice and relaxing stay. This is one of the best places to stay in Sedona and make sure you check out their spa for a relaxing couples massage.
11. Santa Barbara, California
One of the best places to visit in the USA for couples is Santa Barbara, California. This charming coastal city is known for its gorgeous coastline, award winning wineries, five star restaurants,and near perfect weather.
One of the most popular things to do in Santa Barbara for couples is to rent a bicycle and ride along the city’s famous Cabrillo Bike Path. This 4.5-mile paved bike path connects Leadbetter Beach to Butterfly Beach and has the best ocean views in the city.
Other popular things to do in Santa Barbara are surfing, hiking, wine tasting, or simply enjoying a day at the beach.
In the evenings, couples can head out to downtown Santa Barbara to sample the city’s best restaurants. Some of the most frequently recommended for first time visitors are Bouchon, The Lark, or Toma Restaurant and Bar.
The best time of year to visit Santa Barbara is late spring and early fall. If you plan your visit during these times you’ll avoid the summer crowds and high prices but still have excellent weather.
For a couples getaway to Santa Barbara, I recommend either the Hotel Californian or the Ritz-Carlton Bacara, wherever you can get the best deal. Both are upscale properties just steps from the beach.
12. Miami, Florida
Miami is one of the best vacation spots for couples in the US to travel together. It’s full of romantic attractions, natural beauty and delicious foods to taste. The unique cultural blend of the city makes you feel like you’re much farther away than the state of Florida, and there’s nothing more romantic than a walk on the beach.
Some of the best things to do in Miami for couples are outdoor activities within the beautiful city. A stroll on South Pointe Park Pier gives couples one of the best views in the entire city. The panoramic view of the ocean is incredible and early risers will love visiting for sunrise or even a morning run.
Another great outdoor attraction for couples is Biscayne Bay which can be seen onboard a romantic cruise. There are a seemingly endless number of sunset cruises, dinner cruises and boat rides through the bay with romantic themes. A jazz cruise can be the perfect date night for a couple visiting Miami.
Miami is full of wonderful cultures that couples will love to experience together. For example, the stunning Vizcaya Museum is a must-see destination. It’s the winter home of early industrialist James Deering. The super-wealthy tycoon left behind his 16th-century art collection in the 1916 mansion he once called home and it’s a great attraction in the city.
Of course the standard Miami attractions of white sand beaches and Cuban street food cap off all the other things that make Miami a great couples destination in America.
13. Mammoth Lakes, California
You can’t beat Mammoth Lakes as a destination for outdoorsy couples. This cute little mountain town in the eastern Sierra Nevadas offers so many ways to spend time in nature together, from a hike on a scenic trail to a cozy camping trip to a romantic soak in one of the many hot springs. Summer is the perfect season to explore all the outdoor activities in Mammoth, while winter offers world-class skiing and snowboarding.
Mammoth Lakes is just a quick drive from Yosemite National Park, where you can see the famous granite monoliths of Half Dome and El Capitan, and explore the beautiful landscape of Tuolumne Meadows. You also don’t want to miss a hike to Devil’s Postpile (a unique geologic formation) and Rainbow Falls, right in Mammoth itself.
When all the exploring makes you hungry, you have to visit Schat’s Bakery for outstanding sandwiches and yummy baked goods. If you’re looking for a special fine dining experience, make a reservation at The Restaurant at Convict Lake for a delicious dinner. The Village Lodge at Mammoth is ideal for luxurious lodging, or you can snuggle up together in a sleeping bag at one of the many campgrounds nearby.
Insider Tip: For a breathtaking backdrop to a romantic evening, drive to Minaret Vista to watch the sunset over the spectacular Minaret Mountain Range.
14. Pacific Grove/Monterey, California
You may not be aware of this, but you can walk into Monterey from Pacific Grove in just a few minutes. These two beautiful towns are divided by David Avenue and you won’t notice when leaving one for the other. A great time to visit is the summer months. This area has weather that can change at the drop of a hat and you should always have a sweater or a jacket handy.
First, take a walk along the water and enjoy the vista. Have a great craft beer at the Alvarado Street Brewery and a fantastic dinner at the iconic Sardine Factory.
Go to Lovers Point Park and watch the hilarious ground squirrels who have zero fear of humans. There’s a lovely beach here too. Walk along the historic Cannery Row and try to remember the Steinbeck novel you had to read in high school.
A great day trip includes a trip along the picturesque 17 Mile Drive to Carmel where you can have a great lunch at the Hog’s Breath Inn. Clint Eastwood used to own this gem. This area is great for couples, you will not be disappointed.
15. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Old World Santa Fe is one of the perfect romantic getaways in the United States. Santa Fe is located in north-central New Mexico and is surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Stroll hand in hand down Canyon Road, lined with adobe buildings and quaint shops.
Visit the miraculous Loretto Chapel along the narrow streets. Wander the famed Georgia O’Keeffe Museum or the lush Santa Fe Botanical Gardens. Add a little spice to any romantic stay with locally grown hatch pepper salsa at La Choza Mexican Restaurant.
Spend a relaxing day on a New Mexico Wine Tour or rafting the Rio Grande together. Sign up for fun classes like glass blowing or cooking local favorites.
For a romantic road trip in the area, head to The Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks National Monument to hike among the unique cone-shaped rock formations caused by ancient volcanoes.
Then head through the crisp pines to Jemez Springs to see the Soda Dam falls. Experience soaking in several open-air hot springs of varying temperatures surrounded by mountains and zen statues.
Explore the Native American Puya Cliff dwellings, which are within a one hour drive. Top off the experience with more bathing suits, scenic views, and champagne by staying overnight at a hot spring resort. Ojo Caliente and Ten Thousand Waves offer romantic overnight spa packages.
The Japanese-style soaking tubs and rooms at Ten Thousand Waves are booked well in advance for a “wild, hot spring in-the-woods experience”. Between Monday and Thursday, Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort and Spa offers the High Desert Getaway for 2 for romantic massages and soaking under the stars in one of their private kiva pools.
Santa Fe New Mexico oozes Old World Charm and romance!
Pro tip: Book hot spring resorts in advance and rent a 4-wheel drive vehicle for easier access on the local road trips.
16. Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley in Northern California is famous as a wine destination, but there are lots of things to do in Napa besides wine. This beautiful region makes for one of the incredibly romantic getaways in USA for couples, so if you are considering a getaway, look into visiting Napa Valley!
Couples will want to book dinner on the Napa Valley Wine Train. You can relax in a restored Pullman car, and watch vineyards go by, and the sunset, as you savor a four-course meal. And adventure-loving couples will want to consider ballooning over the valley. It is an exciting activity to start a day in Napa Valley!
Book a spa experience in Calistoga: their mud baths and mineral pools are deeply relaxing and the Baths at Roman Spa offer a couples bath. Go shopping in upscale Yountville for one-of-a-kind gifts or check out the cute boutiques in downtown Napa. Stop by Bouchon Bakery for a sweet treat for two!
Touring some of Napa Valley’s gorgeous vineyards and tasting some of the renowned wines produced here are, of course, a must. You will also want to try some of Napa Valley’s world-famous restaurants: from Thomas Keller’s The French Laundry to Gotts Roadside, the diner with wine-country inspired fast foods that taste delicious.
17. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is one of the best places to visit in the USA for couples. It’s a charming city with a very particular culture, architecture, and history. It’s fun to visit and there are more things to do than you can ever cover on a week-long trip.
Couples should find accommodation in one of the downtown hotels that are walking distance to all the great spots. Start with a tour of the French Quarter, both in the daylight as well after dark.
It’s lively, colorful, and busy. Find a bar you like, order a glass of hurricane cocktail, and enjoy a jazz performance. Local foods to try are beignets, crayfish, alligator, gumbo and po’boys.
Amazing places to explore in the city are the historic cemeteries, Garden District, Jackson Square, French Market, and various museums about the voodoo, Mardi Gras, and local history.
For extra fun, take a night walking tour of the city. A romantic dinner cruise on a historic steamboat down the Mississippi River is a great couple activity, too.
After you walk the city, you absolutely must venture out to the countryside. A visit to one or two historic plantations are obligatory as well as taking a swamp tour. If you want to see lots of alligators, plan your trip between March and June and then in September and October. During winter, the reptiles hibernate hidden and during summer, the humidity and swamp insects will make you crazy.
18. Orcas Island, Washington
Orcas Island, which compromises part of the ancestral lands of the Coast Salish, is one of the romantic getaways in the United States for couples, especially couples that love escaping into nature. Off the coast of Washington state, most of the island is reserved for state parks and campgrounds, and the other for agriculture, and it is easy to lose yourself in the beauty of the forests and trails.
If you aren’t a fan of camping, book a stay at the Outlook Inn, a boutique hotel in the heart of the small downtown area, Eastsound. The hotel grounds are so beautiful that dozens of couples hold weddings and photoshoots in the garden, and is walking distance to the best bakery on the island, Brown Bear Bakery.
The downtown area is also home to artisans shops, souvenir stands, and a locally sourced Farmer’s Market on weekends. However, one of the best things to do on Orcas Island is to go whale watching, as the name of the island suggests.
Whale season is from April to October, and the best tour guides are with Outer Island Excursions. Most of their captains have an educational background in sustainable eco-tourism and marine biology and can tell you more about Orcas and their relationship with the island.
19. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is the perfect answer to an amazing romantic getaway in USA. Vegas is more than just a place to gamble, and the best part is that you can do a ton of fun things in the city for nothing at all while on vacation.
The Las Vegas Strip is like a joyride and amusement park for adults. Enjoy time with your loved one, walk hand in hand at the Strip, take in views of the larger than life buildings. This romantic activity is absolutely free. Our favorite is the musical fountains in front of Hotel Bellagio. Stop by to admire the wonderful water show (yes for free!)
Speaking of hotels, one of the romantic things to do in Las Vegas for couples is to book a luxurious resort with a pool, and a spa package to get pampered in style. Las Vegas is a popular vacation spot with a ton of incredible hotel options, such as the Venetian (take a gondola ride at the hotel).
Add an awesome concert, Ice Bar, or fine Italian dining to the mix, and your sweetheart will thank you for a wonderful trip!
Prefer something unique? Opt for a hot air balloon ride right outside of Las Vegas, and enjoy views of the city from all above (maybe use this opportunity to propose or celebrate an occasion with your loved one!).
The best time to visit Las Vegas is in the autumn or winter months!
20. Savannah, Georgia
Savannah attracts couples from all over the world to stroll through its picturesque squares and walk hand-in-hand down streets lined with beautiful homes. If you’re planning a romantic getaway to the city, here are a few things to do.
Begin your day with brunch at The Collins Quarter, and then stroll through the Historic District to see as many of the squares and mansions as possible. If you’re interested in touring a historic home, the Owens-Thomas House & Slave Quarters provides a realistic glimpse into what life was like in Savannah in the mid-1800s.
For a romantic dinner, head to The Olde Pink House or Elizabeth’s on 37th — but make sure you get reservations in advance for either option. Both popular restaurants offer fine dining inside beautiful old Southern-style mansions.
After your meal, stroll down River Street to catch a sunset and relax while talented musicians regale you with their solo performances. Be sure to sample the pralines from River Street Sweets while you’re there!
Finally, try ending the evening by getting spooked on a late-night ghost tour. It’s a Savannah tradition! Couples always grasp hands a little tighter after listening to the numerous tales of murder and mystery that have fascinated visitors for years.
Insider tip: Considering a Valentine’s getaway? It’s not uncommon to find flowers blooming by mid-February. The tulip trees are usually the first to sprout their giant pink blossoms and a flood of azaleas soon follow. Mid-March is the peak blooming season, but it’s also the most expensive time of year to visit.
Conclusion
And that’s it! Travelling with your loved one should be on top of your list. I hope you and your partner will get the most of the best vacation spots for couples in the US! Where are your favorite romantic getaways in the United States?