After traveling together, many couples report better communication, increased sexual satisfaction and an overall strengthened relationship. Plus, you get all the benefits of travel, including better sleep, improved mood and decreased stress levels. Now you just have to decide which romantic getaway in the U.S. you want to explore!
Whether you’re looking for a week-long anniversary trip or a quick weekend couples getaway, our list has 47 romantic destinations in the U.S. for every couple. We’ve also included AAA-recommended places to stay and things to do to make planning your trip even easier.
For even more inspiration, check out our list of the best places to vacation in the U.S.
Romantic Getaways in the Northeast
Known for its beautiful fall foliage, quaint resort towns and historical charm, the northeastern United States makes a great destination for romantic vacations where you and your partner can relax and reconnect.
1. Kennebunkport, Maine
First established as a fishing village in the 1650s, Kennebunkport, Maine, has plenty of natural beauty and history to share with your partner. Explore its beautiful beaches (Arundel Beach is not to be missed!), visit the Goat Island Lighthouse, or go whale watching. When your stomach starts to rumble, take advantage of the cozy seafood restaurants and treat yourself to Maine lobster.
The most romantic time to visit Kennebunkport is during its Christmas Prelude celebration in early December. Cozy up with your significant other as you watch Santa arrive by lobster boat and take in one of three beautiful tree lighting ceremonies and get all your Christmas shopping done at multiple arts and crafts fairs.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- 3 Hour Kayak/SUP Rental in Cape Porpoise Harbor
- A Walk Through Time in Kennebunkport
- Saco Small-Group Catamaran Sailing Charter
2. White Mountains, New Hampshire
The White Mountain National Forest stretches across 1,225 square miles in northern New Hampshire and is filled with beautiful views. Known for its stunning fall foliage, this is the perfect place to slow down with your partner and reconnect.
Take one of the scene railways or aerial trams to see the gorgeous views or explore the Polar Caves. During the winter, visit one of the many resorts to ski, snowboard or tube. In the warmer months, hike the scenic trails, go horseback riding, enjoy cycling or golf with your partner.
Places to Stay
- Bluegreen Vacations South Mountain
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln East-White Mountains
- The Mountain Club on Loon
Things to Do
3. Burlington, Vermont
If you and your significant other can’t decide between a night on the town or getting back to nature, Burlington, Vermont, is a great choice to meet each other halfway..
Take in Burlington’s bustling city life: Dine on the banks of Lake Champlain, shop at the Church Street Marketplace and explore the art scene at the South End Art Hop. End that day sampling some craft brews at one of the many breweries in town.
When the city becomes too much, drive a short distance out of town to hike or ski the Green Mountains. Take a ferry ride or scenic cruise across Lake Champlain or watch the sun set in spectacular fashion over the water from the shore.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
4. Boston, Massachusetts
One of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston, makes a great romantic getaway because of the sheer variety of things to do.
Stroll arm in arm down the Harborwalk. Ice skate at Boston Common Frog Pond in the winter or take a swan boat in the warmer months to pedal yourself around the pond before a picnic in the Public Garden.
Start your day with a brunch cruise in the harbor before exploring one of the many historical sites or museums. End your day at the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
5. Newport, Rhode Island
The sailing capital of the world promises a low-key romantic getaway. With its many spas and local wineries, you’re sure to leave less stressed and more in tune with your partner.
Visit the National Sailing Museum or tour one of the many gorgeous Newport mansions built at the turn of the 20th century. Enjoy a round at the White Horse Tavern, one of the oldest taverns in the United States, after a stroll down the Cliff Walk. Music fans shouldn’t miss the Newport Folk or Newport Jazz Festivals.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Newport Gilded Age Mansions Trolly Tour with Breakers Admission
- Sunset Cruise with Gansett Cruises in Newport, RI
- Newport Neighborhood Food Tour
6. Mystic, Connecticut
This quaint town on the shores of the Mystic River, Mystic is a welcome respite from fast-paced city life, giving you time to de-stress and reconnect with your partner.
Spend an afternoon strolling through Olde Mystick Village before eating dinner at one of the rustic restaurants downtown. Take a lazy scenic drive around town, stopping at whatever lighthouse or beach catches your eye.
If the weather’s right, take a sailing charter or explore one of the many sailing vessels preserved at the Mystic Seaport Museum.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Mystic Seaport Museum Adventure
- Ghosts of Christmas Past Downtown Stroll
- Mystic Moonlit Graveyard Ghost Tour
7. Finger Lakes, New York
The Finger Lakes region of New York encompasses 9,000 square miles and 11 long narrow lakes including Cayuga and Seneca Lakes.
Adventurous couples can explore the outdoors, hiking to one of the area’s gorgeous waterfalls for a romantic selfie or spend your day on the lake boating for fishing.
If you prefer the indoors, check out the region’s wineries and breweries or explore a museum or two.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
8. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The City of Brotherly Love and Sisterly Affection should be on everyone’s list, if only to get the obligatory photo in front of the iconic statue at LOVE Park.
Take in some of the historical sites or meander through Longwood Gardens or along the shores of the Delaware River at the Race Street Pier. In the winter, go ice skating at the Blue Cross RiverRink Winterfest before getting warm at one of the many cozy restaurants along the waterfront.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Spirit of Philadelphia Signature Dinner Cruise with Buffet
- Philadelphia Horse Drawn Carriage Tour
- Ghost Tour of Philadelphia by Candlelight
9. Cape May, New Jersey
Since the mid-1700s, Cape May, New Jersey, has been a top seasonal resort destination. Visit the largest collection of Victorian Gingerbread homes outside of San Francisco and shop at Washington Street Mall.
Collect some Cape May Diamonds (clear quartz from the Delaware River) on the beach or take in some wildlife with a whale or dolphin watching cruise or some bird watching on shore.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Cape May Dinner Cruise with Dolphin and Whale Watching
- Cape May, New Jersey, 2-Hour Kayak Rental
- Cape May Cruise: Grand Lighthouse Tour
10. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
The Nation’s Summer Capital, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, is the summer home of many residents from Washington, D.C. Considered one of the most popular LGBTQ+-friendly destinations on the east coast, everyone is welcome at Rehoboth Beach.
Stroll down the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, known as one of the best in the U.S., then stop at Dogfish Head Brewery to quench your thirst or chow down on some French crepes on Penny Lane. Bike the Gordons Pond trail to take in the scenery, or visit the Delaware Seashore State Park for the Sand Castle Contest in July.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
11. Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, rests on a spit of land between the Isle of Wight Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This seaside resort has been a popular destination due to its fun, laid-back vibe.
Take in the beach from the sky on a plane or helicopter tour, or keep your feet on the ground and walk the boardwalk. The boardwalk is full of great restaurants and amusement park rides to keep you entertained.
Don’t forget to spend some time relaxing together with your toes in the sand, or visit one of the local spas for a couples massage.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Parasailing Adventure in Ocean City, Maryland
- Banana Boat Ride in Ocean City
- Ocean City Happy Hour Boat Tour
12. Washington, D.C.
When you hear Washington, D.C., you probably think of politics and school tours through historical monuments and museums. But it actually has a romantic side, too.
To add a bit of nature to your trip, explore one of the many beautiful parks with a picnic or take a Full Moon Hike in the U.S. National Arboretum. Paddle through the Tidal Basin on a romantic paddleboat ride, or take a leisurely bike ride around it.
The Washington, D.C. skyline is one of the most beautiful, so if you’re out late at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, be sure to pause on your way out to admire the view.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Moonlight Tour of Washington, D.C.
- Washington, D.C., Cherry Blossom Festival Guided Bike Tour
- Spirit of Washington, D.C., Scenic Lunch Cruise
Romantic Getaways in the Southeast
The southeastern United States is steeped in history and beautiful architecture with unique cuisine and a laidback lifestyle perfect for weekend anniversary trips.
12. Shenandoah Valley National Park, Virginia
They say Virginia is for lovers, so there’s no shortage of romantic getaways in the Old Dominion State. One of the most romantic destinations is Shenandoah Valley National Park, which covers more than 300 square miles along the Shenandoah River.
Stay in a cozy cabin in the mountains or a local bed and breakfast. Pick a trail to hike and stop for a romantic picnic along the way, or see all the sights on the Skyline Drive. (Don’t forget to stop for a few romantic couple selfies!) Unwind at one of the local wineries or enjoy a gorgeous sunset over the mountains.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Shenandoah National Park Self-Drive Audio Tour
- Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Skyline Drive All-Day Tour
- Off-Road Adventure - National Forest to Flagpole & Reddish Knob
13. Wheeling, West Virginia
As the original capital of West Virginia, Wheeling has plenty of historical charm nestled into the Appalachian foothills on the banks of the Ohio River. Visit the Centre Market district to take in local art or do some antique shopping. Walk the Ohio riverfront and cross the historic Wheeling Suspension Bridge or attend a concert at the Wheeling Heritage port amphitheater.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
14. Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville, North Carolina, is a unique and welcoming city known for its art scene and historical architecture. When you stay in Asheville, you have easy access to both a great night on the town and beautiful nature.
Nibble on sweets at one of the local dessert bars or take in a gorgeous sunset at one of the rooftop bars. Explore the Biltmore Estate, once owned by the Vanderbilts, or attend a wine tasting at one of the local wineries.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
15. Charleston, South Carolina
One of the most charming cities in South Carolina has to be Charleston thanks to its natural beauty and preservation of historical buildings.
Explore the unique beauty of the lowcountry with self-guided boats at Cypress Gardens or meander through The Battery to see all the historic homes. Stroll down Sullivan’s Island before enjoying an evening picnic at sunset or take a sunset cruise or go dolphin watching on a water taxi cruise of the city’s waterways.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Charleston’s Old South Carriage Ride and Guided History Tour
- Morris Island Lighthouse Eco-Cruise
- Charleston Haunted History Tour
16. Savannah, Georgia
The oldest city in Georgia, Savannah, packs on the Southern charm for the ultimate romantic getaway.
Whatever you do, be sure to take in the views of the city from the water on one of their riverboat cruises. Visit Tybee Island, about 30 minutes away from Savannah, to relax on the beach. If the city scene is more your speed, explore River Street’s shops and restaurants while taking in the views of the water.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Savannah Southern Flavors Food, Pub Crawl and History Combo Walking Tour
- Wormsloe Plantation & Bonaventure Cemetery Tour
- Savannah Cocktail Class in Congress Street Up
17. Amelia Island, Florida
If you’re looking for pristine beaches, clean water and golf courses, Amelia Island is the romantic destination for you.
You can do the usual beachfront romantic activities like enjoying a sunset on the beach or ride horseback on the sand. If you’re more adventurous, you can explore the entire 13-mile long island on bicycle. Picnic in one of the state parks or go shopping on Fernandina Beach. End your trip with a twilight cruise or a spa treatment for the ultimate romantic ending to your getaway.
Places to Stay
- Omni Amelia Island Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
- Hampton Inn Amelia Island at Fernandina Beach
Things to Do
- Amelia Island Electric Bike Tours
- Amelia Island Kayaking Tour
- Historic Amelia Island Electric Skateboard & E-Scooter Tour
18. Louisville, Kentucky
Louisville may be famous for its horse racing and bourbon, but it has more romance than you might expect.
If you’re looking for adventure, visit the Louisville Mega Cavern and do an underground zipline tour or take in the Ohio River landscape with a hot air balloon ride. If less adventure is more your speed, take a tour of one of the many distilleries, see the city with a trolley tour, or visit the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory.
Places to Stay
- Hyatt Regency Louisville
- AC Hotel Louisville Downtown
- Galt House Hotel Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Things to Do
19. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville is home to some of the greatest live country music you’ll find, with lots of opportunities for line dancing and bar hopping. But if you aren’t a country music fan, don’t worry — there’s plenty of other romantic things to do!
Meander through the Cheekwood Botanical Gardens or stroll the Pedestrian Bridge connecting Riverfront Park to Cumberland Park. Nashville has an eclectic art scene, so visit one of the many galleries or partake in an art crawl. For the ultimate romantic evening, have a picnic at Love Circle overlooking the city.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Belle Meade Guided Mansion Tour with Complimentary Wine Tasting
- Downtown Nashville Helicopter Tour
- Nashville One-Hour Line Dancing Class
20. Mobile, Alabama
Mobile may not be top of mind when thinking about romance, but it should be since it’s one of the biggest cultural spots in the Gulf Coast.
Mobile has a diverse food scene with influences from Creole, Cajun, Latin and Southern flavors, so walk through downtown and walk into whatever restaurant catches your fancy. The Mobile riverfront offers plenty of opportunities for romance, or you can cruise the river on a riverboat. There are also plenty of art museums or places to catch live music, including a professional opera.
Places to Stay
- Home2 Suites by Hilton Mobile I-65 Government Blvd
- Renaissance - The Battle House Mobile Hotel & Spa
- The Admiral Hotel
Things to Do
21. Biloxi, Mississippi
Biloxi’s combination of rich history, gambling industry, tourist attractions and beautiful beaches makes it a great southern romantic getaway.
Meander down the Biloxi West Beach Boardwalk in the morning to explore the beach or to relax after a romantic dinner in the evening. Enjoy Biloxi’s seafood industry with a shrimping trip in the Gulf or tour the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum. Then, chow down on some fresh seafood or stop at one of the city’s breweries.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
22. Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Eureka Springs is full of rich history tucked away in the Ozark Mountains. It's known for its outdoor adventures at Beaver Lake and beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails in the mountains. Depending on the year, you can take in festivals celebrating chocolate, UFOs, opera, blues and more.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
23. New Orleans, Louisiana
New Orleans is steeped in romance with its rich history and cultural impact, making it a top travel destination. Start your day with a romantic beignet breakfast at a cafe and carriage ride through the French Quarter. Learn to make the perfect cocktail with your partner, dance the night away to romantic jazz or explore the paranormal together on a ghost tour.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Options
- New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl
- French Quarter & Marigny Neighborhood Carriage Ride
Romantic Getaways in the Midwest
The midwest may not seem like a romantic getaway destination, but America’s Heartland is more diverse and romantic than you might expect. The cities on this list prove it.
24. Cincinnati, Ohio
The Queen City is a must-see midwest destination with unique architecture, a great sports scene and delicious food.
Take advantage of Cincinnati’s geography and enjoy panoramic views of the skyline from one of the city’s seven hills, perfect for those couple selfies. Enjoy Cincinnati’s iconic dish — chili over spaghetti noodles with cheese — before heading to one the professional sporting events (baseball, football and soccer). Explore the city’s rich history at one of its many museums or take in the artwork at one of the art museums or stroll among its rich street art.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Hidden Brewery Caverns Tour with Beer Tasting
- Cincinnati Dessert and Wine Tasting Tour
- Saturday Cincy Brunch, History and Streetcar Tour
25. Traverse City, Michigan
The Cherry Capital of the World makes an excellent year-round romantic destination, perfect for couples looking to enjoy the great outdoors and local wineries. It’s also one of Michigan’s most LGBTQ+-friendly cities.
In the summer spend the day with your partner on one of the freshwater beaches or explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore before winding down for the evening at a local winery. In the winter, spend time on the local slopes.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour
- Traverse City Highlights Private Pedicab Tour
- Day Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine, & Cocktails
26. Indianapolis, Indiana
Indianapolis is a small town disguised as a capital city. The most obvious things to do with your partner include cheering on a local sports team (they’re all about basketball in Indianapolis) or watching a race at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
You can also walk or bike the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which includes many of Indianapolis’ famous landmarks. Visiting the Holcomb Observatory and Planetarium to gaze at the night sky also makes for a great romantic experience.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
27. Chicago, Illinois
As the third-largest city in the country, Chicago offers lots of romance and plenty of things to do. Visit the Navy Pier and ride the Centennial Wheel to take in the view of Lake Michigan or take a sailing tour around the lake to see the city’s stunning skyline from a new angle.
Take advantage of the towering skyscrapers and view the city from one of its observation decks before eating dinner at a romantic top-floor restaurant. If you prefer the outdoors, take a tandem bike down the trail along the lakefront, ice skate in an outdoor arena, or explore the beautiful Chicago Botanical Gardens.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Private 45-Minute Chicago Skyline Helicopter Tour
- Chicago Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
- Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour
28. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Milwaukee is known for its history as a brewing powerhouse, but there’s more to it than that.
Shop at the Milwaukee Public Market and grab lunch from one of the many vendors there. Explore Lake Michigan on a boat tour, including a romantic dinner or drinks. Take advantage of the cooler weather with a romantic ice skate at one of the city’s many ice skating arenas before enjoying some live music at one of the local music venues.
Places to Stay
- Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
- The Westin Milwaukee
- Ambassador Hotel Milwaukee, Trademark Collections by Wyndham
Things to Do
29. Minneapolis-Saint Paul, Minnesota
The Twin Cities is a cultural and economic hub of the upper Midwest, which means there’s no shortage of romantic things to do.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul is full of amazing parks perfect for relaxing. Mill Ruins Park, built on the ruins of abandoned flour mills, is one of the most unique places for a romantic day. Walk across the Stone Arch Bridge, a converted railway bridge across the Mississippi, for a beautiful sunset view. Don’t forget to experience the Mall of America, where you can do more than just shop — there’s also a theme park, an aquarium and more.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Saint Paul Private VIctorian Homes Architecture Tour
- Historical Minneapolis Riverfront Private Walking Tour
- Historic Cave Tour
30. Des Moines, Iowa
Today’s Des Moines is a Midwest tech hub and a haven for young artists, making it incredibly popular with millennials and Gen Zers looking for a more affordable place to live. It also makes it a top Midwest romantic getaway.
Start your morning at the Des Moines Downtown Farmers’ Market for fresh farm-to-table food and gorgeous flowers. Take a couples selfie at the mural wall. Visit one of the city’s breweries or explore the art scene at one of the galleries, museums or sculpture parks. End your day at one of the performing arts centers or live music venues.
Places to Stay
- Hotel Fort Des Moines, Curio Collections by Hilton
- Element West Des Moines
- Hyatt Place - Des Moines Downtown
Things to Do
31. Branson, Missouri
Branson is one of those unique destinations that is perfect for the couple who can’t decide if they want an outdoorsy or nightlife getaway. It’s known for its entertainment district, with hundreds of live shows ranging from music to comedy to magic and more.
But it’s also home to several theme parks, including Silver Dollar City, and outdoor thrills like zipline tours. Golf at one of the local award-winning golf courses or explore one of the three nearby lakes, where you can fish for bass, scuba dive or lounge on the beach.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Grand Shanghai Circus - Amazing Acrobats
- Great Woodsman Zipline Canopy Tour
- Shepherd of the Hills Historic Tour from Branson
32. Omaha, Nebraska
Like Des Moines, Omaha is a Midwestern town turned into a startup hub giving it new life.
Omaha’s beautiful brick-lined streets of the Old Market are not to be missed, so spend some time shopping with your sweetie. The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best in the country, so spend a day learning about your favorite animals.
You can also reenact a scene from A Walk to Remember by walking across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge across the Missouri River.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
Romantic Getaways in the Southwest
The southwestern United States landscape is unlike any other in the country, and its warmer weather makes it a year-round travel destination for couples looking for romance.
33. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Oklahoma City has a booking art scene, interesting historical sites and cowboy culture, making it a unique tourist and romance destination.
Take in the skyline on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel or bike through Bluff Creek Park. Explore the history of 39 different First American Nations at the First Americans Museum before cheering on the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Paycom Center.
Experience the American West with a stay at the Orr Family Farm, where you can sleep in a conestoga wagon or teepee. You can also view classic and contemporary Western art at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum
- Bikes & Brews Tour
- Oklahoma City Scavenger Hunt: Wild Western Art
34. San Antonio, Texas
Perhaps best known for the Alamo, San Antonio is a beautiful and romantic destination for any couple.
Explore Spanish culture at the Spanish Missions, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, during the day before grabbing dinner at the Riverwalk. Grab a selfie on the Selena Bridge outside the Omni La Mansión del Rio hotel or take in Mexican culture at Market Square, where you can shop and eat authentic Mexican food.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- The Haunted Ghost Bus Tour
- San Antonio Riverwalk Cruise and Hop-on Hop-off Tour
- Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience
35. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is both New Mexico’s largest city and one of the most diverse cities in the country, giving it a unique vibe for couples looking for a romantic getaway in the southwest.
If you visit in October, don’t miss the International Balloon Fiesta, one of the largest celebrations of hot air balloons in the world.
Watch the sunset from one of the city’s outdoor spaces or take the Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway in the nearby Sandia Mountains. You can also stroll through one of the unique neighborhoods like historic Old Town and Nob Hill to shop and pop into any restaurant that piques your interest.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Albuquerque Hot Air Balloon Ride at Sunrise
- Georgia O’Keefe and Ghost Ranch Country Tour
- Albuquerque Snowshoe Experience and Aerial Tram Ride
36. Sedona, Arizona
With more than 300 sunny days a year, there’s no bad time to visit Sedona for a short romantic getaway.
For outdoor romance, consider hiking Sedona’s red rock formations like Courthouse Butte Loop or the Slim Shady Hill. Take a breathtaking drive through Oak Creek Canyon or ride the Verde Canyon Railroad, which is especially beautiful at night.
Sedona’s wine industry is rapidly expanding, so tour a few wineries. Sedona is also known for its vibrant art culture, so take some time to explore the art galleries to find a unique piece to bring Sedona home with you.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Sedona Stargazing Tour
- Wine Tour from Sedona to the Verde Valley Vineyards
- Grand Canyon Sunset Tour from Sedona
Romantic Getaways in the West
From the west coast to the Rocky Mountains, the western United States is constantly serving up romance.
37. Bozeman, Montana
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Bozeman is an outdoor lover’s dream romantic getaway. Hike to Palisade Falls to have a picnic near the gorgeous waterfall, or mountain bike one of the trails in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Tube or kayak down the Madison River or try your hand at fly fishing.
If you aren’t outdoorsy, there’s still plenty of romantic things to do in Bozeman thanks to its status as a college town. Visit the Museum of the Rockies to see the largest collection of dinosaur bones in the United States before stopping at a local brewery or relaxing at the Bozeman Hot Springs.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Historic: Butte, Anaconda, and the Headwaters of the Missouri, Private VIP Tour
- Bozeman Private Excursion to Yellowstone National Park
- Hike to Chimney Rock
38. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Jackson Hole has been committed to conservation, allowing the city to keep its Old West charm for modern visitors. If your dream romantic trip is focused on adventure, Jackson Hole is a must-see romantic getaway.
There’s plenty of skiing, hiking, fishing and rafting to keep you busy, but you can also take a hot air balloon ride to experience the beauty of the Teton Valley without as much effort. If you want to get a sense of what life was like in the late-1800s, explore Mormon Row, an early settlement in the area.
When you tire of the great outdoors, stop in one of the bars, breweries or wineries or explore local art and history at one of the galleries or museums.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Scenic Brewery Tour of Jackson Hole
- Private Winter Tour of Grand Teton National Park & Sleigh Ride
- Jackson Hole Horseback Riding in the Bridger-Teton National Forest
39. Denver, Colorado
The Mile High City is one of the most beautiful romantic destinations in the country with its impressive cityscape against the mountain backdrop.
Visit the Butterfly Pavilion or Denver Botanic Gardens, or have a picnic in Confluence Park during the day and then head to Boulder and check out the Sommers-Bausch Observatory to do some stargazing. If you and your partner are sports fans, cheer on one of the city’s many professional teams (they’ve also got a racing speedway if you're interested in pro racing).
If you’re looking to take in the area scenery, but don’t want to hike or ski, take the Mount Evans Scenic Byway.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Discover Rocky Mountain National Park from Denver
- Rocky Mountain Zipline Adventure
- Downtown Denver Food Tour
40. Salt Lake City, Utah
Utah’s capital city was founded as a haven for Mormons, but it’s now known for its skiing and outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s also home to a large LGBTQ+ community, making it a popular destination for LGBTQ+ couples.
If you want to stay within the city itself, visit one of the city’s many art museums and then go on a bike and brew tour of the city or stargaze at the South Physics Observatory or Clark Planetarium.
Places to Stay
- Little America Hotel
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City
- Hampton Inn by Hilton - Salt Lake City/Downtown
Things to Do
- Salt Lake City Big City Loop Bike Tour
- Tabernacle Choir Performance + Salt Lake City Bus Tour
- Great Salt Lake Wildlife and Sunset Experience
41. Boise, Idaho
Boise is the perfect balance of laidback college town life and the beautiful outdoors.
Wake up and explore the downtown Farmers’ Market while drinking some local coffee and eating local baked goods before a romantic picnic at any of Boise’s parks. Visit Snake River Valley, a winery outside of Boise or spend the day at one of the local hot springs relaxing with your partner.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
42. Las Vegas, Nevada
Las Vegas is more than just the casinos on the Strip, so even if you and your partner aren’t gamblers, the city has plenty of romance to offer.
Ride the Linq High Roller sky wheel at sunset for a beautiful, private view of the city and surrounding desert before taking in a candlelight concert at one of the area’s entertainment venues.
Explore the hotel scenery, like Bellagio’s fountain show or Conservatory Botanical Garden, the Eiffel Tower or take a gondola ride at the Venetian. During the day, venture out to Red Rock Canyon or Emerald Cave.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Grand Canyon West Rim Bus Tour & Hoover Dam Photo Stop with Optional Skywalk
- Las Vegas Dunes Tour by ATV
- Madame Tussauds Las Vegas
43. Lake Tahoe, California
The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is one of the best romantic getaways in the country with its scenic views.
Riding the Heavenly Gondola up Heavenly Mountain is a must-do couple activity, even if you aren’t planning on skiing or snowboarding the slopes. Soothe your sore muscles or soak away the stress of life with a visit to the Sierra Hot Springs.
If you and your partner are looking for some outdoor fun, there’s plenty of skiing and water sports available depending on the season. In the winter, consider taking a romantic sleigh ride through Lake Tahoe and in the warmer months, enjoy the sunset on a cruise with live music or dining options.
Places to Stay
- Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino
- Best Western Plus Truckee Tahoe Hotel
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Truckee
Things to Do
- Self-Guided Tour from Incline Village to South Lake Tahoe
- Clear Kayak Tour of Lake Tahoe
- Tahoe Helicopter Tour: Lakes and Waterfalls
44. Portland, Oregon
In addition to its beautiful scenery, Portland is one of the more affordable romantic destinations in the United States.
If you want to explore the city’s natural beauty without hiking a mountain, consider visiting one of the City of Rose’s many gardens. The International Rose Test Garden is a favorite of the City of Roses, and the Portland Japanese Garden and Crystal Springs Rhododendron Garden are also popular.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Full-Day Guided Oregon Coast Tour from Portland
- Explore the Wines of Oregon’s Willamette Valley
- Half-Day Columbia River Gorge and Waterfall Hiking Tour
45. San Juan Islands, Washington
The San Juan Islands is an archipelago between Vancouver island, British Columbia, and the northwest corner of Washington.
The archipelago is famous for its orca whales, so a whale watching tour is a must-do on any romantic trip to the San Juan Islands. In the evening, catch a sunset on South Beach. Visit the Pelindaba Lavender Farm or explore the English camp, where British Royal Marines were stationed during The Pig War.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Kayaking in Deception Pass State Park
- Orcas Island Half-Day Sailing Lessons
- Sunset Canopy Climb on Lopez Island
46. Anchorage, Alaska
While it may not be top of mind as a romantic getaway, Anchorage, Alaska, offers a seemingly endless list of activities that you simply can’t do anywhere else in the country.
See the countryside on a trip on the Alaska Railroad or take in the views from the sky with a helicopter or seaplane tour. The Alaskan glaciers are not to be missed — visit the Portage Glacier, which you can access via boat or hike the Byron Glacier Trail, less than a mile away.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Alaska Railroad Aurora Winter Anchorage to Fairbanks One Way
- Alaska Wildlife Day Tour with Free Hotel Pickup
- Sunset City Tour
47. Maui, Hawaii
Even the most basic of activities becomes romantic against the beautiful backdrop of Maui’s 120 miles of beaches, lush tropical foliage and the shadow of Haleakala.
Maui’s gorgeous beaches are not to be missed. Take in the gentle waves on Big Beach or visit the black sand of Honokalani Beach. When you tire of the sun and surf, there are plenty of hiking trails, helicopter tours and spas to help you connect with your significant other.
Places to Stay
Things to Do
- Kaanapali Sunset Luau
- Haleakala Sunset Tour
- Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour
- Rappel Maui Waterfalls and Rainforest Cliffs
Plan Your Romantic Getaway with AAA
Plan your next romantic getaway in the U.S. and internationally with AAA. Explore our list of top travel destinations in the U.S. for more inspiration, or use Trip Canvas to dream about all the possibilities.
When you’re ready to book, use your AAA membership for travel discounts like deals on hotel stays or rental cars, or work with a AAA travel agent to craft the perfect trip for your honeymoon or a weekend away with your partner.