8 Romantic Destinations in the US: Discover How Travel Makes Sparks Fly
Find Romance in These Cities
There’s no arguing that travel invigorates the soul. After all, nothing awakens the senses like exploring a new city and uncovering all of its hidden charms and quirks, or hiking up to views that leave your mouth agape.
Experiencing all of the above with that special person in your life equally has the power to put a spark back in your relationship, or get the fire burning even brighter! Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, but these destinations are just as romantic at any time of the year.
There are many other perks to traveling as a couple, like saving money and staying safe. But the best part is spending time with each other. What better way to celebrate your relationship than taking a romantic getaway that renews your love for each other — and the world? Check out these romantic destinations and see which attracts you most.
San Francisco, CA
The City by the Bay offers an ideal romantic retreat for those who love spectacular landscapes, scenic strolls and fabulous eats. Take a walk hand-in-hand across the Golden Gate Bridge to enjoy one of the most breathtaking vistas that include Alcatraz Island, the city skyline and the dazzling Pacific.
Look forward to dining on artisanal food found around practically every corner, from food trucks to gourmet eateries to the incomparable Ferry Building farmers’ market. Take your food to go and enjoy it while on a sunset sail underneath the iconic bridge.
Cap the getaway off by sipping libations from the extensive martini menu while soaking up magnificent views of the city lights at the Top of the Mark, located on the 19th floor of the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel.
New York City, NY
Romance in the Big Apple is easy as the city is fraught with opportunities to be inspired by love. Cuddle up under a blanket on a horse-drawn carriage ride through Central Park.
Gaze out at the views from the Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building, watching the life of the city pulse beneath you. Explore works at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Go ice skating at Rockefeller Center. Follow your senses and let the city pull your hearts closer together.
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Cannon Beach, OR
One of the world’s top spots for romance, Cannon Beach sits along the wild Northern Oregon coast where, in the wintertime, storm-watching opportunities abound. Cozy up together in an oceanfront resort such as the Stephanie Inn, with suites featuring fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs and views overlooking iconic Haystack Rock and the Pacific Beyond.
The town itself is filled with world-class art galleries, elegant eateries and unique shops. And, if the sun makes an appearance, you can enjoy a hike on the scenic trails that wind the through ancient old-growth forest at the edge of the ocean, beach combing and exploring tide pools filled with a myriad of colorful sea creatures.
Big Sur, CA
Often called California’s own Italian Riviera, Big Sur sits along an epic Mediterranean-style stretch of coastline renowned for its stunning beaches, including a rare purple sand beach at Pfeiffer State Park. With the turquoise waves crashing against its edge, it creates a particularly striking contrast.
Not surprisingly, this region caters to couples seeking romance, with a number of internationally acclaimed accommodation options, such as Post Ranch Inn, considered one of the most romantic places to stay on the planet. It boasts infinity pools overlooking the Pacific, a candlelit restaurant, couple’s massage and unforgettable stargazing after dark.
Charleston, SC
Charleston oozes Southern charm with its cobblestone streets, graceful shady live oak trees and grand 19th-century homes. You can even re-create “The Notebook” together by strolling through Cypress Gardens, one of the movie’s filming locations.
Take a guided tour of Shem Creek, where playful dolphins are often spotted. Be sure to take a walk south of Broad Street to view some of the most impressive homes, and then finish up at White Point Gardens, relaxing under the majestic oaks while gazing out at the sea.
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Taos, NM
With its gloriously colorful desert sunsets, romantic adobe retreats and cultural treasures, Taos is a dream destination for lovers. Adventure-seekers can raft together down the Rio Grande, ski at one of five ski resorts or hike up Wheeler Peak to take in awe-inspiring views from 13,141 feet at the top.
After a day of play, you’ll have your pick of romantic places to stay, such as Hacienda del Sol, named one of the most romantic inns in the country by Sunset magazine. Its traditional adobes date back to 1804 as part of the town’s artistic history.
Seattle, WA
Despite its reputation for dreary weather, the Emerald City is famous for romance. Its starring role in the 1990’s flick “Sleepless in Seattle” might have a little something to do with it, but its awe-inspiring surrounding scenery likely plays a major part in that too.
For the ultimate evening together, enjoy dinner at the top of the Space Needle in the rotating SkyCity Restaurant with ever-changing views that reveal jagged mountain peaks and sparkling waters in practically every direction.
Afterward, head to the Seattle Great Wheel along the waterfront pier, a 175-foot-tall observation wheel that features enclosed gondolas that are ideal for a romantic interlude.
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Kauai, Hawaii
A favorite for romance, Kauai is known as a quiet, peaceful isle. Though lacking in the nightlife department, it’s bountiful when it comes to natural beauty, with its secluded beaches, brilliant gardens filled with exotic flowers and more waterfalls than any other Hawaiian Island.
Explore the Na Pali coast, considered one of the most spectacular spots on Earth, which can only be accessed via helicopter tour, boat or hiking. Mahaulepu Beaches are considered some of the Garden Isle’s most remote beaches, offering the chance to stake out a private spot all to yourselves.
