6 Great Weekend Getaways

The reality of a jam-packed schedule may mean there’s little time for some hard-earned rest and relaxation, but even a weekend is long enough to experience a break. How does a spa resort sound? What about a cozy getaway cabin tucked away in the serene woods? Or a rustic retreat just outside a big city?

Here are six weekend getaways to explore off the beaten path.

Asheville, North Carolina

If a romantic weekend in artsy Asheville is on the agenda, check out the Abbington Green Bed & Breakfast Inn and Spa in the Montford Historic District. This leafy AAA Four Diamond spa resort and retreat is set in a historical home filled with modern comforts, such as whirlpool tubs and king-sized beds. Working fireplaces add romantic atmosphere to every room.

Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Six lodges with cozy condominiums in a variety of sizes (one to five bedrooms, depending on the lodge) make up AAA Three Diamond Trappeur’s Crossing Resort, the perfect place for a ski getaway in the winter wonderland of Steamboat Springs.

Take advantage of the shuttle service to get to the ski area, and then dive into one of the four heated pools when you return. Most condos include a fireplace, and all have a patio or deck.

Sarasota, Florida

Enjoy a weekend getaway with your honey or the whole family at the AAA Three Diamond Lido Beach Resort. This family-friendly property features spacious guest rooms and condo-style suites with full kitchens. The resort overlooks a 300-foot sugar-white beach on Lido Key and offers two pools that are heated year-round.

While in Sarasota, spend some time at the Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, which houses an amazing array of marine animals, including sharks, sea turtles, angelfish, seahorses and pigfish. Afterward, stop by Main Street Creamery for some small-batch ice cream.

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is home to the AAA Four Diamond Hamilton-Turner Inn, which features 17 rooms in a historical 1873 mansion close to Lafayette Square. Antique furnishings, nightly hors d’oeuvres and a sumptuous breakfast make for a memorable stay.

While you’re in town, board the Savannah River Queen or the Georgia Queen—both paddle-wheel boats—for a narrated sightseeing voyage, or take an evening cruise on the Savannah River, complete with dinner and live entertainment.

Midland, Michigan

Looking for a luxe romantic getaway in an urban setting? Artworks add color to the bright white walls of the chic AAA Four Diamond H Hotel in Midland. Enjoy dinner at the on-site AAA Three Diamond Café Zinc, a classic European-style eatery. The hotel also boasts a fitness center and an indoor pool.

Beyond the property, you can take in the serene beauty of nearby Dow Gardens or go on an architectural tour of the midcentury Alden B. Dow Home and Studio.

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Whether you’d like to get away with your sweetie or have the best family vacation for a weekend, look no further than The Osthoff Resort. Set on the shores of Elkhart Lake in eastern Wisconsin (north of Milwaukee), this AAA Three Diamond property offers one- to three-bedroom accommodations with woodland and lake views.

Amenities on or adjacent to the resort include golf; the full-service Aspira Spa; and an array of lake activity rentals, including kayaks, canoes and paddleboards. For $25 per person, take a morning Coffee Cruise, which also shares information about local geology and history.