12 incredible winter weekend escapes across the U.S.

After December’s holidays, the long trek toward summer feels never-ending and sometimes a change of scenery is the dose of medicine you need to make it to the finish line with a smile—or at least the whisper of one. Luckily, there are plenty of getaways big and small within driving and train-ride distance of the country’s biggest hubs. Here, a few of our faves.

Three and a half hours from NYC by car

The Berkshires are usually considered a fall foliage hot spot, but wintertime has its own charm. Do as the locals do and set aside time for hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. And when the forecast shifts, there are plenty of museums offering a warm welcome.

Getting here: The route is easy, once you’re out of NYC. Hop on the Taconic State Parkway and sail north 150 miles.

On your to-do list: Head to MASS MoCA for contemporary art exhibits housed in a former 19th-century factory. Literary nerds will recognize the name Edith Wharton—her home, The Mount, has been turned into a museum that serves as a great place to explore when the weather is too chilly. Hancock Shaker Village is another step back in time, acting as a living museum with demos, farm animals, art exhibits, and a farm-to-table cafe.

Where to stay: TOURISTS takes “rustic cabin charm” to a new level—it’s the kind of place where you’ll be snapping reference photos for your own apartment mood board. Cornell Inn Lenox is another design-minded spot and gets rave reviews for its buzzy tavern.

Four hours from NYC by car

If popping on a pair of skis and diving deep into the mountains is your idea of a good time, Manchester will deliver. And it’s home to something special: the so-called "Sun Mountain," the only south-facing peak in New England.

Getting here: Make your way out of the city and head north on I-87 N before splitting off onto US-7 N. Make a pit stop in Kingston, NY, to break up the drive—Village Coffee and Goods is a go-to for caffeine fixes.

On your to-do list: Diners are a way of life here, so make time for Amy’s on the Road—the B.L.R.O.T. (a BLT with onion rings) is a must-order. Go all in on aprés ski at Johnny Seesaw’s and its massive indoor fire pit. For skiers, Bromley Mountain has a ski program for kids and 47 trails accessible from nine lifts. The Stratton Mountain Resort is bigger (and more expensive) with Colorado-ski-town vibes, 99 trails for skiing, as well as snowmobiling, snowshoeing, cross-country, and snow tubing. Then, take a break from the snow at Pastime Pinball, home to 60 machines (some date back to 1947).

Where to stay: The modern-amenity-filled Equinox, Golf Resort & Spa sits on nearly 1,000 acres of protected woodland, and the property itself dates back to 1769. For a romantic stay, check into the Kimpton Taconic Hotel, a gem with clapboard architecture and a cozy library.

Two and a half hours from NYC by train

A classic stop on many Hudson Valley itineraries, Rhinebeck has plenty of small-town charm without skimping on trendy hotels and restaurants. Easily accessible by train, it also makes for a great car-free getaway.

Getting here: Grab a seat on a Rhinebeck-bound Amtrak train from Penn Station’s Moynihan Train Hall. (Sit on the left side for wintery Hudson River views.)

On your to-do list: If you have kids in tow or you’re just really into planes, the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome shouldn’t be missed—it’s home to 60 vintage aircraft, motorcycles, and cars. Spend an afternoon wandering the wares at the Beekman Arms Antique Market. Oblong Books is another must-visit and has a calendar full of author signings, too.

Where to stay: The Beekman Arms calls itself the oldest inn in the country (it opened its doors in 1766). Fans of traditional design and conversation-filled taprooms flock to its 80 rooms. For something more luxe, the Mirbeau Inn & Spa has a stacked wellness line-up with saunas, steam rooms, exercise classes, and a full spa menu.

Two hours from LA by car

If you don’t want to spend a lot of time in your car, San Diego provides a quick change of scenery. The city’s neighborhoods all offer different vibes, from the Gaslamp District to Little Italy, so repeat visits are encouraged.

Getting here: Get on I-5 S for a quick(ish) drive. Leave in the morning to miss the worst traffic and pack a few snacks—you’ll be checking into your hotel before lunch.

On your to-do list: Breakfast at Richard Walker’s Pancake House is the right way to start the day (go for the oven-baked apple pancakes). The San Diego Hop-On, Hop-Off Trolley is always a good choice; make sure to book tickets for your first day to help you get a lay of the land. Spend the afternoon strolling the Seaport Village, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries—the hand-carved carousel is the area’s beating heart. And then head to the Gaslamp Quarter, the city's former red-light district that's now the go-to spot for cocktails, special-occasion dinners, and live music.

Where to stay: The Pendry San Diego Hotel is located right in the Gaslamp District, and the rooftop pool is a scene on the weekends. For beachside vibes, The Wayfarer San Diego channels the surf lifestyle into its room decor and chic common spaces—and the heated pool is a treat in winter.

Three and a half hours from LA by car

In winter, Vegas’s temps hit a manageable range, making it possible to walk down The Strip without melting. But when you need an indoor reprieve, all of the city’s museums and casinos are still there.

Getting here: Hop on I-15 N for a trip right into Nevada. When you run out of snacks or need a bathroom break, Barstow, CA, is a solid stop to break up the semi-monotonous drive.

On your to-do list: Head to the Bellagio Las Vegas for the legendary fountain show, which happens every 30 minutes or so. The best view is from the waterfront restaurant, Lago by Julian Serrano—but be warned that you might catch some of the splash. The moderate temps mean it’s the perfect time for a walking tour: The Small-Group Downtown and Fremont Street History Walking Tour breaks down the history of this famed city, while the Pop Culture Walking Tour Downtown With Complimentary Cocktails tackles modern sights (neon lights, casino design, and more).

Where to stay: If you don’t plan on leaving the property, Caesars Palace will keep you busy with its three-level nightclub, seven pools, Roman bath-themed space, casinos, and shopping mall. Plus, you can book a room at Nobu, a boutique stay within the larger hotel that offers a quiet moment away from it all. For more of a see-and-be-seen vibe, check into The Cosmopolitan. It’s packed with restaurants (é by José Andrés, STK Steakhouse, and Bang Bar by Momofuku) and the rooms have wraparound terraces.

Four and a half hours from LA by car

An afternoon of driving is all it takes to trade city traffic for fresh air. Yosemite is home to its namesake national park, where hiking, stargazing, and waterfall spotting will fill your days.

Getting here: This trip is pretty easy—hop on I-5 N toward Sacramento before breaking off to CA-99 N for a straight shot to Yosemite.

On your to-do list: Park the car in Yosemite Village, Curry Village, or Yosemite Falls before grabbing a seat on one of the park’s free shuttles. If you make it in early, get off on Stop 16 (Happy Isles) to access the trailhead to Mist Trail—it'll take you to the gorgeous Vernal Fall. Stop 6 on the shuttle will get you to the iconic Yosemite Falls; take the easier mile-long Lower Yosemite Falls Trail to get a great bottoms-up view of the falls. And don’t miss dinner (especially the French onion soup) at Mountain Room Restaurant, where you’ll dine surrounded by Ansel Adams masterpieces.

Tip: To make the most of your time, join the Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour, which packs a ton of must-sees into a single day.

Where to stay: For easy access, stay in a hotel inside the park’s boundaries. Yosemite Valley Lodge has a massive heated pool, a food court for quick meals, and spacious, family-friendly rooms. The Victorian Wawona Hotel is a more budget-friendly option, with rooms with both shared and private bathrooms.

Just under four hours from Atlanta by car

There’s more to Nashville than just the music scene. There’s plenty to do year-round that will deliver a great weekend escape whether you step foot in a venue or not.

Getting here: A ride on I-75 N and I-24 W will get you to Nashville, but leave early so you can make a lunch stop in Chattanooga. Our recs? Stir for vegetarian options, or Public House for a stellar great burger.

On your to-do list: Set aside some time for vintage shopping (Cool Weird Things and East Nashville Antiques and Vintage are faves) and museums (don’t miss the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Frist Art Museum). If you do visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, make time for Hatch Show Print and RCA Studio B (where Elvis and Dolly used to record). And come nightfall, prepare for a healthy dose of honky tonk. For the best of the best, join this pub crawl and then head back to your favorite to continue the night.

Where to stay: Luxe-minded travelers will feel right at home at The Joseph, where the room design is inspired by music (think: drawer pulls that mimic guitar knobs). 1 Hotel Nashville offers some peace and quiet with expansive views of the city.

Four hours from Atlanta by car

Wistful live oaks and Victorian architecture drape a sleepy vibe across Savannah, but there’s a fresh side to see on every visit. History, unforgettable eats, and architecture fill the itinerary but it’s the breezy winter temperatures that make it must-visit.

Getting here: The drive is split between two long drags: I-75 S and I-16 E. It’s highway driving, so prep the playlist accordingly.

On your to-do list: A meal at Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room often requires quite a wait, but the family-style Southern classics are more than worth it. Paranormal enthusiasts should check out the Sorrel-Weed House Museum—the Greek Revival mansion was built in 1862 and it hosts nightly Ghost Hunter Walking Tours. It’s also worth taking a step back and checking out the city from a 90-Minute Savannah River Sightseeing Cruise. When you want to go deep, visit the First African Baptist Church, one of the oldest Black houses of worship in the country. It’s an itinerary stop on a handful of self-guided experiences but you can also buy tickets at the door for daily tours.

Where to stay: Perry Lane Hotel does old-school grandeur right, with lots of marble and a dollop of contemporary art by Savannah College of Art & Design students. (Bonus: you'll get a free cocktail during the Wayward bar's daily happy hour.) The Cotton Sail Hotel Savannah sits on the buzzy River Street, but the vintage decor feel like a step back in time. Pro tip: Grab breakfast at the rooftop bar.

Four and a half hours from Atlanta by car

Just off the South Carolina coast, Hilton Head Island packs a lot into its 12-by-5-mile footprint. It’s easy to fill a weekend with beach visits (yes, even during the wintertime), rounds of golf, history tours, and great meals.

Getting here: Sea air will start drifting your way as you head up I-75 S and I-16 E. There are plenty of parks and restaurants for pit stops, so don’t worry about packing lunch.

On your to-do list: Stretch your legs with the 114-step climb to the top of the Harbour Town Lighthouse and Museum for breathtaking Atlantic views. Golfers will want to play a round at Harbour Town Golf Links at Sea Pines, a PGA Tour stop. Learn more about the Lowcountry’s Indigenous community at the Coastal Discovery Museum, where the exhibits explore Native American roots and its impact on colonization. And be sure to get out on the water with a naturalist-led guided kayak tour of the Broad Creek Wildlife Area’s marshes, tidal rivers, and creeks.

Where to stay: The Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island has a private stretch of beach, a lagoon-style swimming pool, tropical gardens, Arum Spa, and in-room soaking tubs. For adventure-prone families, the Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort offers an 11-mile lagoon for kayaking and canoeing. The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa is focused on wellness—pass the day with spa treatments before venturing out for dinner.

One and a half hours from Chicago by car

Lake Geneva has historically been a second home to influential Chicagoans. In winter, you’ll find it covered in a blanket of snow and home to events like Winterfest, where artists sculpt masterpieces out of ice.

Getting here: This route takes you along the shores of Lake Michigan. Stretch your legs in Kenosha and take a stroll along one of its many beachside parks.

On your to-do list: Check out Studio Winery + Geneva Lake Distilling and enjoy some live music if you’re visiting on a Friday or Saturday. Join a guided tour of Black Point Estate, the previous home of brewer Conrad Seipp. If spooky vibes are on the itinerary, book a spot on the Lake Geneva Ghost Walk, where you’ll cover storied spirits and lake monsters. And be sure to pack your skis—the slopes of Grand Geneva and Wilmot Mountain are two local faves.

Where to stay: There may not be a pool at Geneva Inn, but the Lake Michigan views from the private balconies will make up for it. Seven Oaks Bed & Breakfast is a collection of nine cottages, offering a bit more privacy than a conventional B&B. Each living room has a stone fireplace, perfect for recovering from winter’s chilly temps.

Three and a half hours from Chicago by car

If you’ve got kids in tow, Indianapolis has plenty of museums, sports history, and a zoo. And it’s just far enough to feel like you’re really getting out of town without falling into big-suitcase territory.

Getting here: Before you hop on I-95 S, you’ll get a nice little joyride along the southwestern edge of Lake Michigan.

On your to-do list: The Children's Museum of Indianapolis is a given if you’re traveling with little ones. If the weather allows, spend some time in the museum's newer, outdoor area—pedal car racing, golf, baseball, and more will help them burn off some energy. The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum houses memorabilia and exhibits covering historic races—even those who don’t fancy themselves car enthusiasts will find something interesting. And if the car ride has the kids feeling antsy, the Indianapolis Zoo is just off the interstate.

Where to stay: Ironworks Hotel Indy is within walking distance to a lot of bars, restaurants, and shops, making it a great pick if you want to park the car and leave it for the weekend. The Bottleworks Hotel was once a part of the largest Coca-Cola bottling factory in the world, but now it offers spacious rooms with Art Deco flair.

Three hours from Chicago by car

A true university town, you’ll find students, locals, and visitors alike strolling State Street year round. Madison is known for its many bars—and each one has at least one TV playing whatever game is on—but its outdoor adventure shouldn’t be missed, even during the wintertime.

Getting here: Drive west from the shores of Lake Michigan on I-90, and stop off in Janesville, WI, if you need a lunch or bathroom break.

On your to-do list: State Street is always a good idea, especially early on in your stay. Shops, restaurants, and bars line the entire stretch between the State Capitol and the University of Wisconsin-Madison—you could spend an entire weekend without leaving the area. Download the Wisconsin's Madtown: A Madison Self-Guided Walking Tour if you’re looking to get a lay of the land. For a dose of live music, The Orpheum Theater hosts a solid rotation of local and international acts.

Where to stay: Hotel Indigo Madison Downtown is located a bit off the beaten path, but there are plenty of restaurants and cafes within walking distance. For water views, check in to The Edgewater Hotel. While the property may feel far from it all (read: it’s quiet), it’s still within walking distance to Capitol Square and Downtown Madison.