Image courtesy of L'Auberge Sedona
Couples looking for a romantic escape can find hidden gems across the US. Choose to explore quaint villages, sit by the fire with a glass of wine or relax during a couples' massage at a world-class spa.
There’s the cozy charm of New England inns after a day of antiquing in Upstate New York or strolling the hills of Litchfield. Mountain lodges in the Blue Ridge Mountains are perfect for wildlife spotting and scenic drives. The Southwest has a balance of desert landscapes like Sedona's red rocks and cultural experiences like Santa Fe's art galleries. The West Coast’s rugged shores are perfect for winery visits in the Santa Ynez Valley and sunrise hot-air balloon rides. Or you can always just relax poolside at a nearby luxury resort.
Any time of year is ideal to plan a milestone celebration or a last-minute getaway. This guide will help you navigate where to stay and what to do (so everything feels tailor-made for two).
Need to know
Creating a romantic trip is all about minimizing travel stress, which means plan ahead. Confirm hours for seasonal amenities, and verify children’s policies if you’re seeking an adults-only escape. If you’re driving, opt for a car suitable for weather conditions and terrain for your destination.
Airports
Northeast: Most hotels are easily accessible from any of the area’s major airports, from Boston (BOS) to Albany (ALB) or New York City’s three airports (JFK, LGA, EWR).
Southeast: The region’s retreats are reachable from airports in Atlanta (ATL), Asheville (AVL), and Nashville (BNA).
Southwest: Flights to this part of the country will typically fly into the larger airports of Phoenix (PHX) or Albuquerque (ABQ).
West Coast: Popular resort destinations can be reached via major gateways like Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO), or regional airports like Monterey (MRY).
Transportation
Northeast: For scenic views, consider Amtrak to connect with charming destinations like Hudson Valley, the Berkshires and Upstate New York. Renting a car is also ideal to explore quaint towns and the countryside.
Southeast: This area’s mountains and charming towns are best explored by car. Consider renting a car to get around, but private shuttles and ride-share services are also available.
Southwest: The region’s scenic highways and landscapes are best seen by driving — remember a 4x4 or SUV is best for more remote locations. There are also plenty of private transfers available from the airports to resorts.
West Coast: The dramatic coastline and desert regions are best explored by car. Private transportation is also available, especially for day trips to wine regions and smaller coastal towns.
Best time to visit
Northeast: For winter scenery and outdoor activities, December to February is ideal. Temperatures start to warm in March through May, perfect for vineyard tours and hikes. Hot summer days in June to August are the right time for lake activities. Cooler weather and fall foliage emerge in September to November.
Southeast: December to February brings mild, cozy weather to this region. Landscapes start to bloom from March to May, perfect for outdoor activities. The summer months of June to August are perfect to explore Franklin’s music scene and dine under the stars. Crisp air and fall foliage make September through November a charming time to visit.
Southwest: Milder days with cooler nights can be found from December to February, sometimes seeing snow. As temperatures warm in March through May, hiking desert landscapes or strolling charming towns are ideal. Hot summer days from June to August are best at resort pools and spas. From September to November, cooler temps prevail.
West Coast: December to February is perfect for days at the spa, while March through May brings blooming landscapes to start exploring the outdoors. June to August mean hot weather, perfect for days by the pool or beach. Fewer crowds and cooler temps mean it’s a great time to visit from September to November.
Ideal length of stay: A 2-4 night trip is perfect for unwinding and reconnecting. Whether it’s a quick weekend retreat or an extended escape, this timeframe offers plenty of time for relaxation, adventure and connection.
Where to stay
Image courtesy of The Point
Make sure to book accommodations as soon as possible, especially for popular holidays like Valentine’s Day. Be flexible with dates and look at surrounding weekends if places are full.
Northeast
The Northeast is a romantic haven filled with charming villages and cozy cafés. It’s perfect for seasonal experiences like apple-picking in fall or sleigh rides in winter. If you love a mix of outdoor adventures and cozy charm, you will love this region.
The Point: This retreat in the Adirondacks is an exclusive, adults-only hideaway featuring just eleven rooms on Saranac Lake. The elegance is only enhanced by its Black-tie dinners, champagne picnics, and all-inclusive pricing.
Winvian Farm: This secluded escape in Litchfield offers a mix of romance and luxury set on over one hundred acres. With eighteen uniquely themed cottages, such as the Treehouse or the Helicopter Cottage, each stay offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Fora Perks include a $100 food & beverage credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Postcard Cabins: Located throughout the Catskills, this collection of cabins feature minimalist design surrounded by nature. Each cabin is secluded and cozy, with floor-to-ceiling windows and complimentary s’mores kits.
Southeast
Image courtesy of The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection
The Southeast offers a romantic blend of natural beauty and Southern charm. Seasonal markets and Lowcountry cuisine are just a few highlights you can enjoy any time of year. Anyone looking for a warm, cozy, inviting escape will find something to love here.
The Dunlin, Auberge Resorts Collection: This dreamy riverside retreat in South Carolina’s Lowcountry combines timeless romance and natural beauty. It features charming accommodations, including waterfront cottages, and a range of on-site activities.
Fora Reserve perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Southall Farm & Inn: Set on over three-hundred acres of rolling farmland in Franklin, Tennessee. Rustic and charming, this luxury retreat’s accommodations feature private terraces, soaking tubs and views of orchards and gardens.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
High Hampton Resort: This historic resort offers peaceful mountain-view cottages and lodge rooms with modern comforts. Pricing includes daily breakfast and dinner, with additional activities and spa treatments available.
Southwest
Image courtesy of The Inn of the Five Graces
The Southwest combines dramatic landscapes and cultural richness. Art-gallery-lined streets in Santa Fe and hiking trails through Sedona’s red rocks are two of the region’s highlights. This area in general is perfect for couples wanting a blend of relaxation and outdoorsy adventures.
Castle Hot Springs: This all-inclusive, adults-only desert retreat, just outside of Phoenix, perfectly combines relaxation and adventure. Offering private cabins and sky-view bungalows, the resort is known for its outdoor soaking tubs fed by the property’s natural hot springs.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
The Inn Of The Five Graces: Located in the historic district of Santa Fe, New Mexico, this boutique hotel offers global elegance and Southwestern charm. From its lavishly decorated suites, to nearby art galleries, it’s an unforgettable getaway.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
L'Auberge de Sedona: Surrounded by Sedona’s iconic red rock landscape, this luxury retreat is perfect for relaxation. With private creekside cottages, a world-class spa, and plenty of outdoor activities, it’s a unique and unforgettable sanctuary.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
West Coast
Image courtesy of Alila Ventana Big Sur
The West Coast provides a range of luxurious experiences alongside rugged natural attractions. Taking a walk along the beach in Santa Barbara or driving on the iconic Pacific Coast Highway are just two ideas for couples to enjoy. The region is the perfect backdrop for romance.
San Ysidro Ranch: This ultra-luxury escape at the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains is an all-inclusive foodie’s dream. Beside the ranch’s lavender gardens, its secluded cottages offer guests private hot tubs, outdoor rain showers and stone fireplaces.
Fora Perks include a $100 hotel credit, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Thompson Palm Springs: This chic and modern retreat in the heart of Palm Springs, steps from restaurants and art galleries. From mid-century-inspired rooms to mountain views, this desert escape is perfect for romance and outdoor adventures.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Alila Ventana Big Sur: This secluded cliffside retreat is an adults-only haven surrounded by redwoods overlooking the Pacific Ocean. With spacious suites and glamping tents, along with a renowned spa, this one-of-a-kind escape combines natural beauty with elegant luxury.
Fora’s Hyatt Privé partner perks include a hotel credit, welcome amenity, daily breakfast, an upgrade and extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Activities
Image courtesy of High Hampton Resort
Book experiences in advance to ensure availability, but leave room in your itinerary for relaxation and spur-of-the-moment activities.
Northeast
Fireside relaxation: Unwind by the fire in a cozy Postcard Cabin with a bottle of wine and s’mores.
Rural escape: Tour Vermont’s snowy scenery, stopping in at quaint cafes and antiques shops.
Litchfield hills: Discover the hills of Litchfield near Winvian Farm with a winter stroll or snowshoeing adventure.
Village vibes: Browse art galleries and boutique shops while strolling through Upstate New York’s villages, like Hudson or Saratoga Springs.
Sip & savor: Enjoy a visit to a local vineyard or distillery for a private tasting.
Ice skating: Sip some mulled cider or hot chocolate before ice skating at a small-town rink or frozen pond.
Southeast
Historic charm: Wander Charleston’s historic cobblestone streets near The Dunlin, lined with pastel-colored homes.
River cruise: Spot wildlife and enjoy the sunset on a boat ride down the Kiawah River.
Nature trek: Tour Southall Farm & Inn’s greenhouse and orchards, stroll its many walking trails, or relax with a picnic.
Blue Ridge Mountains: Drive through the Blue Ridge Mountains near High Hampton Resort for scenic overlooks and hiking trails.
Local gem: Take a stroll through the charming mountain town of Cashiers, North Carolina.
Winery: Visit a vineyard near Franklin, Tennessee for wine tastings and panoramic views.
Southwest
Red Rock: Take in Sedona’s red rock landscape from trails around Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge.
Santa Fe: Explore Santa Fe’s historic plaza and Canyon Road near The Inn of the Five Graces, for art galleries and local markets.
Jeep tour: Wind through rugged terrain on Jeep tour in Sedona at sunset.
Hot air balloon: Watch the sunrise from a hot air balloon over the desert formations in Sedona.
Scenic drive: Venture through the Painted Desert or Monument Valley, taking photos and enjoying the colorful landscape.
West Coast
Botanic gardens: Visit the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden near San Ysidro Ranch for peaceful trails and native plants.
Wineries: Sample local varietals on a wine-tasting tour in the Santa Ynez Valley.
Palm Springs: Enjoy a walk through downtown near the Thompson Palm Springs, including a stop at the Palm Springs Art Museum.
Redwood trails: Hike the Redwood Trails near Alila Ventana Big Sur for ocean vistas surrounded by some of the world’s tallest and largest trees.
Beach: Take in the sunset at Montecito’s Butterfly Beach.
Coastal drive: Cruise the iconic Pacific Coast Highway near Big Sur, and stop for photos at Bixby Bridge.