weekend getaways

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When most of us plan a day trip we envision hopping on a train or driving a couple hours at most for some leisurely time away, a mental break from our busy schedules.

People Are Booking ‘Extreme Day Trips’

Los Angeles

San Francisco

Two Days Away

Thrillist shares itineraries to some of the best towns and small cities across the United States. Everything you need to know to make the most of your weekend away.

Two Days Away: Small Town Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Photo by Sammy Deleo, courtesy of Mammoth Mountain

It may not be obvious from the weather just yet, but it’s officially ski season in California.

Hit the Slopes Then Soak in Hot Springs in This Gorgeous California Mountain Town

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The vastness of the American landscape cannot truly be fathomed until you find yourself in the middle of nowhere, staring down a massive thunderstorm as it engulfs a distant mountain.

The Most Beautiful Highway in Every State

Photo by Cam Jones, courtesy of Destination NSW

Only slightly inland of Sydney’s famous surf beaches and yacht-lined harbor is a sleepy oasis marked by waterfalls, slot canyons, sacred rock formations, and forests overflowing with fragrant eucalyptus and ferns.

This Australian Town Is Known for Both Art Deco Architecture and Outdoor Adventure

Photo by Acacia Gabriel for Thrillist

Zion, Bryce Canyon, Grand Canyon, and Joshua Tree are some of the most iconic national parks in the country, if not the world.

The Ultimate National Parks Road Trip Through the American West

Seattle

Eagles soar over a European tudor-style village serving German food, beer, and desserts, while the distinctly playful sounds of polka music drift from the downtown gazebo where Lederhosen-clad musicians perform.

A Holiday Getaway to the Bavarian Town Tucked in the Cascade Mountains

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On the southern coast of Japan, not far from Tokyo, travelers leave the city behind in favor of a laid-back surfer vibe, complete with plenty of beaches.

This Laid-Back City Is the Birthplace of Modern Surfing in Japan

Washington DC

Photo by Brown W Cannon III

Exactly halfway down the nearly 3,000-mile Appalachian Trail, trekkers will come across the idyllic town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

The Charming Mountain Town With Access to America’s Most Iconic Hiking Trail

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The Best U.S. Cities for a Weekend Trip

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Santa Rosa is a patchwork of hills, valleys, plains, and field after field of grapes.

This California City Is the Gateway to Wine Country and Redwood Forests

Photo by Elena_Suvorova/Shutterstock

Whether you’re looking to slowly drive past a bison herd, scale colossal mountain peaks, traverse craggy desert expanses, or just straight-up take a great bath, our great national parks have something for everyone.

The Most Popular National Parks in the U.S.

Miami

Photo courtesy of Discover Lake County

There’s something inherently humorous about a place called “Mount” anything in pancake-flat Florida.

Weekend Getaways

People Are Booking ‘Extreme Day Trips’

It’s less adrenaline-pumping X-Games, and more foregoing sleep and packing the schedule to the brim.

Hit the Slopes Then Soak in Hot Springs in This Gorgeous California Mountain Town

Everything to do in Mammoth, from shredding to hot springs to breweries and more.

The Most Beautiful Highway in Every State

Fill up your tank and hit the road.

This Australian Town Is Known for Both Art Deco Architecture and Outdoor Adventure

Katoomba offers the rare chance to visit a national park without a car, making it an easy addition to any Sydney vacation.

The Ultimate National Parks Road Trip Through the American West

Here’s how to visit four parks in a single week, starting in LA.

A Holiday Getaway to the Bavarian Town Tucked in the Cascade Mountains

This Washington village feels like stepping into a picturesque snow globe.

This Laid-Back City Is the Birthplace of Modern Surfing in Japan

Kamakura is for shrines, surfing, and ultimate relaxation—and it's easy to reach from Tokyo.

The Charming Mountain Town With Access to America’s Most Iconic Hiking Trail

Find historic sites, quaint downtown shops, and miles of hiking paths.

The Best U.S. Cities for a Weekend Trip

If you’re working for the weekend, better make it count!

This California City Is the Gateway to Wine Country and Redwood Forests

From the vineyards to the oldest, tallest trees in minutes.

The Most Popular National Parks in the U.S.

Stunning vistas, awe-inspiring nature, and a ton of tourists.

A Laid-Back Lake Town in the State You’d Least Expect It

Find rolling hills and quintessential lake town vibes.