As exciting as vacations to far flung destinations are, sometimes a getaway closer to home is more manageable. Discover the most romantic cities in the USA to celebrate a special occasion or just spend time with your plus one!
When I’m asked about romantic destinations, my mind often wanders to far off places like Florence, Santorini, or some remote island. Sometimes we're able to take enough vacation days and save sufficient funds to travel overseas. More often than not, a romantic getaway in the USA, something closer to home, is more manageable.
Whether you’re strapped for time or are unable to travel abroad for other reasons, there are plenty of romantic cities in the United States to celebrate a special occasion or to enjoy some time with your plus one.
Some of the destinations I’ve listed below are perfect for a quick weekend, others require a three or four day weekend, and a far few are worth at least a week.
No matter how much time you have or what your budget is, I’m sure one of these romantic cities in the United States will fit the bill for your upcoming trip.
Now let’s get into the most romantic cities in the USA for a couples getaway!
1. Maui, Hawaii
ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC GETAWAYS IN THE USA FOR ISLAND LOVERS AND ultimate relaxation
Maui is without a doubt one of the most romantic getaways in the USA and a popular pick for honeymooners. One of the reasons I gravitate towards Maui over the other Hawaiian Islands is because of the variety it offers. Not only will you find beaches, rainforests, lava formations, and pineapple plantations, but there's also a nice assortment of hotels and resorts.
Family-friendly, romantic, luxurious, modern minimalism, secluded…whatever type of romantic getaway in the USA you’re looking for you, can find it in Maui.
If you want to be in the center of the action and within walking distance of other hotels, restaurants, and shops, head to Kaanapali beach. Here you'll find over three miles of pristine beach, Whaler’s Village (an outdoor shopping complex), and snorkeling around Black Rock.
This is a great spot if you don’t want to spend time driving anywhere. There's plenty to do within walking distance and a trolley that will take you to downtown Lahaina. You could easily spend a week here and not use a car once.
If something more secluded with a touch of luxury is more your style, check out the new Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, Fairmont Kea Lani, The Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua, or the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. These properties will make sure you have a romantic getaway to remember.
Whether you plan on spending your days hiking, biking down a volcano crater, laying poolside, snorkeling, or just enjoying the resort and munching on fresh Hawaiian pineapple, Maui is a sure winner for one of the most romantic getaways in the USA.
2. Scottsdale, Arizona
One of the most romantic cities in the USA for a desert escape, hiking, and spas
Jake dragged me to Scottsdale eight years ago on our first anniversary. To say he loves the desert is an understatement…hence why we drove eleven hours one way to get to the Sahara when we were in Marrakech…another story for another time.
When he convinced me to visit Scottsdale for our first anniversary, I didn’t have high expectations. I expected a brown, desolate, meh, type vacation. I was so wrong that we have visited about fourteen times since! Scottsdale has become one of our favorite romantic cities in the USA.
The landscaping is pristine with bright desert flowers and 9-foot-tall perfectly perched cacti. The coffee shop and restaurant scene are on point, and there are desert hikes for every fitness level.
The resorts offer pools perfect for lounging and spas to put you in the ultimate relaxation mode. Stay at the Omni Montelucia or Andaz Scottsdale, our two favorites. Two other solid options are The Phoenician and Arizona Biltmore by Waldorf Astoria.
Be sure to visit Berdena’s, my favorite Scottsdale coffee shop, and Virtu Honest Craft, our favorite Scottsdale restaurant.
A visit to one of the themed cocktail bars at Century Grand PHX (hands down one of my favorite cocktail bars on the planet) is an absolute must. It’s an innovative and immersive cocktail experience with three turn-of-the-century themes to choose from; a nautical themed tiki/pirate ship bar, a Pullman inspired train car, and a New Orleans apothecary.
AWA Tip: add a few nights in Sedona if you have more than a weekend for your romantic getaway. The hiking opportunities are endless and the scenery is out-of-this-world.
Enchantment Resort is the #1 place to stay and has direct access to some fantastic trailheads. Inn Above Oak Creek is a budget-friendly bed and breakfast. Dine at Mariposa for fantastic views and Elote Cafe for incredible margaritas and regional Mexican cuisine.
Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge, and Subway Cave are some of the most popular hikes.
SEE ALSO:
SCOTTSDALE GETAWAY | A DETAILED TRAVEL GUIDE
BEST BREAKFAST IN SCOTTSDALE | WHERE TO BRUNCH
THE BEST TIME TO VISIT PHOENIX & SCOTTSDALE
2 DAY SCOTTSDALE ITINERARY + WHAT TO DO IN SCOTTSDALE AZ
CHECKING IN TO ANDAZ SCOTTSDALE RESORT
3. Napa Valley or Sonoma/Healdsburg, California
One of the most romantic getaways in the USA for wine lovers
Napa Valley is one of the most romantic cities in the USA for wine lovers. You could easily fill up your days jetting from one wine tasting to the next. There are tasting rooms and patio spaces to fit every fancy. Farmhouse rustic, ultra-chic, high-tech modern...Napa has enough variety to keep everyone happy.
One of my favorite Bed and Breakfasts, The Inn on Randolph, is located in downtown Napa. It honestly might be one of the main reasons we come back to Napa again and again.
If you want to go all out with an incredible resort, check out Bardessono Hotel and Spa, North Block Hotel, Auberge du Soleil, Meadowood Napa Valley, Carneros Resort and Spa, and Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection.
I also love the setup of Napa Valley. The valley consists of a string of charming small towns. Each town has a main street filled with boutique shops and cozy restaurants.
Downtown Napa has a more modern vibe and is home to the famous Oxbow Market, Yountville feels like a mini European getaway, Calistoga and St. Helena offer a more authentic, rustic vibe.
The combination of cozy bed and breakfasts, luxury resorts, farm-to-table dining, incredible scenery, and memorable wine tastings makes Napa one of the most romantic cities in the USA.
If Napa Valley is too crowded or touristy for your taste, head to Sonoma or Healdsburg instead. It’s much more laidback and has a more authentic feel. If you want a private and intimate getaway, I would definitely lean toward Sonoma/Healdsburg over Napa.
SEE ALSO:
PLANNING A TRIP TO NAPA VALLEY | A NAPA GUIDE
BEST TIME TO VISIT NAPA VALLEY | MONTH BY MONTH GUIDE
BEST NAPA COFFEE SHOPS | TOP 5 IN NAPA VALLEY
INN ON RANDOLPH | A NAPA VALLEY BED AND BREAKFAST
4. Willamette Valley, Oregon
One of the most romantic getaways in the United States for wine, hikes, and nature at a reasonable cost
Willamette Valley is one of the most romantic getaways in the United States if you like the idea of a Napa wine weekend, but prefer something more casual, laidback, affordable, and a bit more outdoors-focused (and don't mind a higher chance of rain).
Willamette Valley wineries offer tastings that are very affordable. Typically, $20-$30 for a flight. Tasting rooms are intimate and the scenery is lush and green with spectacular views (you might even see snow-capped Mt. Hood or Mt. Jefferson on a clear day).
A trip to the Willamette Valley wine region is a must for lovers of food, wine, nature, and views. With over 500 wineries, world-renowned Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, a growing restaurant scene, unforgettable views, and a charming historic downtown district, you'll have a trip for books!
Stay at the beloved Atticus Hotel in downtown McMinnville, my hometown. Or go for the luxurious and spacious Allison Inn which has everything you need for a romantic stay. Fine dining, relaxing spa, walking trails, gardens, and gorgeous views.
Like Napa, Willamette Valley is made up of a string of small towns. You’ll find the most activity in McMinnville, which has a charming downtown area and plenty of farm-to-table restaurants. Newberg, Dundee, and Dayton are pretty small but are located minutes from some of the best wineries.
If wine isn’t your thing or you’re looking for some variety, this region offers some great beer tastings, hikes filled with waterfalls, rivers to go kayaking on, and coastline to explore…all within a one to two-hour drive.
While Portland used to be a fun city break, I would stay away for now. Crime is rampant and businesses are leaving left and right.
5. Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur, California
One of the most romantic cities in the USA for a fairytale escape
Carmel is one of the most romantic cities in the USA for a fairytale escape. Carmel, specifically Carmel-by-the-Sea, is an absolute dream. You may just feel like you’ve landed in some charming German town.
This little gem is the perfect place to stay and wander aimlessly for a few days just to take it all in. Sleep in late, slowly sip your morning latte, borrow your hotel bike for a leisurely ride, browse the tiny boutiques, and enjoy the company of your plus one over a romantic dinner.
This is a place where you’ll want to rent a car. 17-Mile Drive is a must and considered one of the most beautiful drives in the USA. The $11.25 admission price per vehicle is more than worth it.
Stop by Pebble Beach to see where the best golfers in the world play, check out the world-famous aquarium at Monterey, snap a picture of Bixby Bridge (made famous by the HBO show Big Little Lies), and explore a few wineries around Carmel. Stop at Folktale Winery if you want to continue the fairytale theme.
Big Sur is a must for nature enthusiasts. It’s a quick 40-minute drive from Carmel-by-the-Sea. Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Lucia mountains, this area offers many state parks for hiking, beach time, and camping.
This is a great area to go out on a whim and just drive around. The scenery is truly breathtaking and you will find many spots to stop the car and take in the views while snapping a few pics.
6. Charleston, South Carolina
One of the most romantic cities in the USA for southern charm and history
Jake and I head to Charleston when we're looking for excellent cuisine, culture, history, and charm at a slow pace. This city has had some spectacular hotels open recently and the restaurant scene will have you booking your next trip ASAP.
This is the perfect city to wander at your own pace. Jake and I rode our hotel bikes all over Charleston and felt completely safe doing so. No crazy traffic and speeding taxis here. Book dinner at Verns, have brunch at Husk, coffee and baked goods at Harken Cafe, and visit Marion Square market on Saturdays.
If you want to continue your romantic getaway, head to Savanah, Georgia. It’s only a two-hour drive. Or visit Hilton Head Island for some beach time. Also just two hours away.
This is one of the most romantic cities in the USA if you’re looking for some good old southern charm with a side of history, culture, and incredible cuisine.
Please do not support animal cruelty and skip the horse carriage rides where one horse is pulling 10+ people in extreme heat and humidity.
SEE ALSO:
BEST TIME TO VISIT CHARLESTON, SC | IDEAL SEASONS & MONTHS
WHERE TO STAY IN CHARLESTON, SC | BEST AREAS + HOTELS
7. New York City
One of the most romantic cities in the USA for an urban getaway and top restaurants
NYC should be at the top of the list of the most romantic cities in the USA for foodies, shopping, and urban jungle lovers. Dine at some of the best restaurants in the world, take part in the clubbing and rooftop bar scene, and see a Broadway show or two. NYC has enough to keep any visitor busy be it your first visit or your tenth.
Be the ultimate tourist and hop around Times Square and Central Park with your plus one. Or wander the "quieter" neighborhoods like the Upper East Side. Head to SoHo and West Village if you’re planning to splurge on a shopping spree.
Looking to mix a fun atmosphere with delicious food? Visit Buddakan, TAO Downtown, and Beauty and Essex. My favorite Italian spot is L’Artusi. Head to Mr. Purple or The Crown for after-dinner drinks with a view.
NYC is a great option for a romantic getaway if you gravitate towards the excitement of city life. With its infamous Broadway shows, bustling dinner spots, and one-of-a-kind metropolitan views, it’s a clear choice on the list of the most romantic cities in the USA.
SEE ALSO:
3 DAY NYC ITINERARY – NYC SIGHTSEEING PRIORITIES
BEST CROISSANTS NYC – TOP 5
My favorite MIDTOWN COFFEE SHOPS
BEST BAKERIES IN NYC | TOP 5
BEST TIME TO VISIT NYC | IDEAL SEASONS & MONTHS
8. La Jolla, California
One of the most romantic cities in the USA for perfect weather year-round
La Jolla offers perfect weather the majority of the year, hiking, and gorgeous ocean views. Go South 20 minutes and you’re in the heart of San Diego. Go North 20 minutes and you’re in the quaint coastal town of Del Mar.
The Fairmont Grand Del Mar is a gorgeous hotel in the picturesque hills of Del Mar and is perfect for a luxurious romantic getaway. The hotel is removed and private, yet minutes from downtown La Jolla. The pool is swoon worthy, the onsite restaurants are divine, and the overall property is a blissful retreat. Use the Fairmont bikes to ride around the nearby golf course and neighborhood for a morning workout.
The heart of La Jolla, Village of La Jolla, is nestled right up to the ocean. You’ll find art galleries, boutique shopping, rooftop bars with ocean views, quaint brunch spots, outdoor cafes, and upscale dining. It’s the perfect place to stroll and stop at cafes and shops at your leisure.
Enjoy coastal Italian cuisine on the rooftop of Catania and sip on cocktails and watch the sun go down at Eddie V’s or the ocean terrace at George’s.
A few other activities include hiking Torrey Pines, kayaking through the coves, a long run or jog along Del Mar beach, visiting the La Jolla sea lions, and finding your city fix at San Diego.
Between all that La Jolla and neighboring San Diego and Del Mar have to offer you’ve got yourself a nice romantic vacation in the USA.
Honorable Mention - New Orleans, Louisiana
ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC CITIES IN THE US FOR FOODIES and history buffs
I've decided to take New Orleans off the list of the most romantic cities in the USA for a few reasons.
Safety is number one. This has become a place where you need to either stay in the main tourist areas or do your research on where to go and where not to go. Number two is how dirty the city has become in general.
All in all, New Orleans still has a lot to offer, which I'll list below, but now I would veer towards Charleston over New Orleans for a better experience.
I'm keeping it as an honorable mention because you can still have a nice trip as long as you don't scrimp on your hotel and stick to the main tourist areas. I truly hope things improve soon as this used to be one of our favorite US cities.
If you and your plus one are foodies and interested in history, New Orleans is a good pick for one of the most romantic cities in the USA. NOLA has it all; distinctive architecture, a walkable historic center, crazy good food, a lively party scene, history, and art.
The first few times you visit you'll want to stay in the Warehouse District (a 10-minute walk from the French Quarter). The hotels are much better here plus you get to skip how loud and dirty the French Quarter is.
Try a cute Bed and Breakfast in the Garden District once you’ve gotten your fill of the French Quarter/Warehouse District. Be sure to eat at Shaya, La Petite Grocery, and Herbsaint…our favorite restaurants in the Garden District.
Whether you spend your time art gallery hopping, touring famous cemeteries, wandering the infamous WWII Museum, or joining a creepy ghost tour…you'll have no problem finding ways to fill your time in New Orleans.
This is one of the most romantic getaways in the USA if you’re looking for something that is more unique and goes beyond the usual resort, wine and dine, lay by the pool type vacation.
SEE ALSO:
BEST TIME TO VISIT NEW ORLEANS
NEW ORLEANS COFFEE SHOPS – TOP 5 NEW ORLEANS CAFES
TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS IN NEW ORLEANS FOR FIRST TIMERS
In Summary
I hope this list of the most romantic cities in the USA gives you some inspiration for an upcoming trip. Whether you’re based on the East Coast, West Coast, or the central US, there’s a romantic destination nearby for you!
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Most Romantic Cities in the USA for a Couples Getaway
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