Best place to escape to in every state

When the hustle of everyday life starts wearing you down, it’s time to take a real break. Spend time somewhere to soak up nature’s wonders and revel in serene solitude. Turn off your phone, take a breather from the latest news cycle, and let your worries fade for a while. When you take time to recharge, you’re better equipped to handle all that life throws at you and then some. From quaint small towns to quiet nature preserves, this country is full of places to escape to.

Alabama

Fort Payne

Fort Payne, in the heart of Alabama, is a secluded spot that offers a tranquil retreat from the chaos of everyday life. At the Little River Canyon National Preserve, you can get away from it all as you hike through the gorgeous foliage, listen to the sounds of nature undisturbed, and enjoy the soothing sounds of cascading waterfalls. Nearby Lookout Mountain and DeSoto State Park are perfect places to gain some peace of mind. For a touch of local culture, explore the historic downtown area with its quaint shops and cozy cafes. Step back in time for a fine dinner at Vintage 1889, a romantic restaurant set in a former mill, and toast to an enchanted evening.

Alaska

Tok

Talk about a great place to get away from it all—Tok is located on the border of the remote Canadian Yukon territory in Alaska. A seriously secluded getaway with a backdrop of towering mountains and expansive forests, including stunning views of Denali, it’s a great place to escape—home to hiking trails for summer travelers and snowy sights in the winter. September through April is prime aurora borealis viewing season, and Tok has almost no light pollution to muddy your view. Relish the daylight hours at Tetlin National Wildlife Refuge, located approximately 56 miles southeast in Northway. There you can channel your inner calm communing, with the area’s wildlife population, from elegant caribou to darling waterfowl.

Arizona

Monument Valley

Located within the Navajo Nation, Monument Valley in Arizona is a breathtaking Southwestern landscape that feels like you’ve stepped into another world. Beautiful buttes stand tall along the red-earth desert. Take a tour with a local Navajo guide to places that are otherwise not accessible to visitors, like the unique Ear of the Wind formation.

You’ll hear stories of the valley’s mystical origins as you explore. As the sun sets, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink, you’ll find a moment of tranquility that’s hard to match. At least you can bring home a reminder; the View Hotel has a trading post outfitted with handmade Native art, jewelry, and housewares. Local artists can be found selling and crafting their work around town as well.

Arkansas

Hot Springs

Let healing waters surround you in Hot Springs, where Bathhouse Row presents top soaking spots like Buckstaff Bathhouse and Quapaw Baths and Spa. Tour the historic Fordyce Bathhouse and other historical spas to learn all about this Arkansas city’s natural wonder and how people have benefited from healing mineral waters throughout history.

Beyond the baths, Hot Springs National Park is also a great place to escape. It provides a lush backdrop for outdoor adventures, with miles of scenic trails that wind through verdant forests and provide stunning vistas. The vibrant downtown area, with its eclectic shops, art galleries, and delightful eateries, adds to the charm and allure of this unique retreat.

California

Palm Springs

There’s an undeniable healing presence in the still mountains surrounding Southern California’s desert, and when the warm winds start blowing, you can almost hear your mind relax and your body uncoil. Really, Palm Springs is full of things to do for every traveler. For casual vacationers, this is a place to unwind by the pool and in the spa, like the Palm Mountain Resort and Spa or Palm Springs Yacht Club.

For mystics, this is one of the best places to escape the distractions of urban life and encounter the metaphysical. Experience a spiritual tune-up at the Integratron in nearby Landers. The stunning domed building, built on the site of a geomagnetic vortex, is used for rejuvenating sound baths that will leave you with a sense of peace. For health and wellness travelers, California is one of the best states to visit.

Colorado

Salida

Located among Colorado’s tallest mountains—more than a dozen over 14,000 feet, known as the 14ers—Salida offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility if you’re looking for places to run away to. Hike or ski at the famous Monarch Mountain to feel the wind in your hair and the world at your back. A lively art community with more than a dozen galleries and studios, the quaint downtown area puts on the annual Salida Art Walk each summer. Take a heated hiatus in the Salida Hot Springs, the largest indoor natural springs pool in the U.S. Sate your appetite while you relax in the casual atmosphere of Boathouse Cantina, located right on the sparkling downtown waterfront. The friendly community and laid-back atmosphere make it easy to unwind and savor each moment.

Connecticut

Litchfield

Tucked away in the scenic hills of northwestern Connecticut, Litchfield offers a peaceful retreat that blends New England charm with pastoral beauty. It’s brimming with historical buildings and a contemplative atmosphere. Let Charym enchant with a meditation or yoga workshop—this wellness center looks like it leaped from the pages of a storybook. Winvian Farm, about a mile away in Morris, is a spa, dining, and nature destination where lucky guests refresh with a yoga session and bask in the stories this old house can tell. White Flower Farm blooms in full color each spring and summer. When the display gardens are open, you can wander among plants from all over the world.

You can also find solace in the rolling hills and lush countryside as you explore the White Memorial Conservation Center, where miles of trails wind through forests and wetlands.

Delaware

Dover

As the Delaware capital, Dover blends rich history with modern charm and offers plenty of opportunities to leave your worries behind. Start by strolling through the historic Green, where colonial-era buildings and museums transport you back in time to the nation’s early days. You can also find respite at Little Creek Wildlife Area, directly east of Dover, hugging the coast.

Here, you can find quiet moments to birdwatch and catch a glimpse of the graceful waterfowl. You can take a meditative walk along the trails of Silver Lake Park or cast a fishing line into the still water. Pickering Beach is another great place to escape the hustle and bustle and just let your feet and mind wander.

Florida

Pompano Beach

A strong argument can be made that warm, inviting beaches are the best places to get away from it all. Florida is bursting with these sun-drenched havens; foremost among them is Pompano Beach with a secluded vibe and sparkling beaches close to the small city center. It’s exceedingly vacation-ready but free from major crowds. See how chill this community can be when you join the sangha of South Florida Zen Group for meditation. For quiet personal contemplation, walk to the Hillsboro Inlet Light at sunset and watch the bright colors reflect in the lighthouse glass. Pompano Beach also has 50 parks, with a plethora of green spaces and scenic trails where you can get away from it all.

Georgia

Blue Ridge

Nestled in the scenic foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Blue Ridge, Georgia, is a charming retreat that offers a perfect blend of well-preserved, accessible natural beauty and small-town warmth. Take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway, built in 1905, which starts at the downtown station and tours the region in a relaxed, vintage style.

Walk across or canoe under the Toccoa River Swinging Bridge—it’s 270 feet long and the longest swinging bridge east of the Mississippi River. Join an event, class, or workshop at Blue Ridge Yoga and Wellness and browse the galleries and shops that showcase local crafts and artworks. Don’t bother bringing your worries along; they won’t last long here.

Hawaii

Kula

An upcountry town on the Hawaiian island of Maui offering sweeping views of both the island and the Pacific Ocean, Kula is a prime spot to help erase stress. If you’re looking for places to go to get away from everything, you’ll love it here. Kula’s cool, crisp air and stunning vistas provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. Indulge in a tour, then taste the freshness of a farm-to-table organic lunch at O’o Farm. Breathe in soothing lavender aromas at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, then gaze upon the world from atop the Haleakala volcano, a short drive away. Stroll through 8 acres of bliss at Kula Botanical Garden, taking in the array of colorful plants, rock formations, trees, and waterfalls.

Idaho

Salmon

Salmon is a tiny city of just over 3,000 folks in the mountains of Idaho, and its River of No Return might come to embody your reluctance to go back to daily life once you’ve enjoyed its treasures. Sail down the Salmon River on a guided excursion and enjoy the stunning canyon vistas or take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque grounds at the Sacajawea Interpretive, Cultural, and Educational Center.

Cruise the Salmon River Scenic Byway and opt out of being the driver if you can—you won’t be able to keep your eyes on the road and off the foliage. Soak your cares away at the Goldbug Hot Springs, or get your om on at Peaceful Mountain Yoga.

Illinois

Makanda

Known as the gateway to the Shawnee National Forest in Illinois, Makanda is a serene and enchanting place to escape from reality if you’re looking to unwind in nature. Explore over 4,000 acres of forest, bluffs, ponds, and streams at Giant City State Park. Then, wind down with some wine along the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, which boasts 11 award-winning wineries along a scenic highway. Art is a great healer, so bring some home with you from the Makanda Boardwalk, where local artists showcase their wares. Book a private cabin for the ultimate getaway, with a jetted soaking tub and sweeping views.

Indiana

Chesterton

Chesterton, a charming town near the southern shores of Lake Michigan in Indiana, is a delightful place to get away from it all and let nature and small-town warmth soothe your soul. Camp out at Indiana Dunes State Park, where you can stretch out on the white-sand beach, hike the dunes, stroll through the black oak forest, and explore the button-bush marsh. If you’re more of an indoor person, book a stay at a bed and breakfast and relax in an outdoor hot tub, or snuggle up to your own wildlife in dog-friendly accommodation. Enjoy a glass of wine at Butler Winery, then treat yourself to a quiet, authentic Italian dinner at Lucrezia Cafe.

Iowa

Fairfield

Fairfield, Iowa, is a hidden gem in the Iowa heartland, offering a unique blend of cultural richness and serene landscapes. It’s also a place where famous celebrities go to get away from it all. Seek transcendence at the Vedic Observatory, or treat yourself to a unique spa experience at The Raj, an Ayurveda health spa that combines natural therapies, yoga, and other customized treatments to address myriad maladies.

Escape to simpler times by visiting Maasdam Barns to learn about local draft horse history. Cook an outdoor meal and eat al fresco by the lake at Waterworks Park. If you’re an art aficionado, you can visit the nearby American Gothic house, which inspired Grant Woods’ iconic painting.

Kansas

El Dorado

El Dorado is a charming town that offers a delightful escape with its rich history and natural beauty. El Dorado State Park, the largest state park in Kansas, provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. The horse trails include hitching posts on the shoreline and campsites with corrals and other equestrian amenities.

Explore the surrounding Flint Hills, the continent’s largest remaining tract of tallgrass, and let blankets of wildflowers envelope your senses. Rent a boat from Shady Creek to paddle away your stress in El Dorado, then toast to the simple life at the Walnut River Brewing Company. Escape into a sweeter world at The Sweet Mercantile chocolate shop.

Kentucky

Elizabethtown

Elizabethtown is a charming destination combining rich history with Kentucky’s serene beauty. If you’ve felt like retreating to a dark cave recently, the Mammoth Cave Network, less than an hour outside of Elizabethtown, is your new happy place. It’s the largest known cave system in the world and the best place to lose sight of reality for a little while. If you prefer to stay in the sunlight, explore the many GreenSpace Trails or watch the ducks at Freeman Lake Park. Pack a picnic and enjoy the bench swing overlooking the lake at the Lincoln Heritage House. Sip your blues away on the famed Kentucky Bourbon Trail; it’s an area rite of passage.

Louisiana

Mandeville

Mandeville was made for slowing life down to a drawl. Located on the placid shores of Lake Pontchartrain, the town is the right setting for sailing off into the sunset, and Delaune Sailing Charters can help. Book a room overlooking the water at De La Bleau Bed and Breakfast, then pack a lunch and head to Northlake Nature Center. Find the pavilion overlooking the cypress swamp, and your only worry will be which beautiful view to take in first. Lazily lap along in a canoe, or join a guided kayak swamp tour with Canoe and Trail Adventures. Indulge in a massage and enjoy the club’s facilities for the day at Stone Creek Club & Spa and slip into a more comfortable state.

Maine

Greenville

Known to be a peaceful place to rest and relax, Maine is full of places to get away from it all. Greenville is no exception. Between Moosehead Lake and Burnt Jacket Mountain, the area is full of places to plan a secret getaway or simply enjoy some tranquility. If you want nature to awe you, head out on a moose-sighting journey with Special T Adventures, then retire to the comfort of a room at Greenville Inn at Moosehead Lake. The charming 1890 property has only 14 rooms, and the on-site library is where you can cozy up with a book and let the day fade away.

Maryland

Chestertown

Chestertown, Maryland, offers a perfect retreat if you’re looking for relaxation and a touch of history. Kent County is known for its beauty, and the people of Chestertown appreciate what it means to need some one-on-one time with nature. You’ll be welcomed with warmth at the Inn at Mitchell House, but you’ll also find yourself with plenty of zen moments as you quietly explore the 12 acres of landscaped gardens, meadows, and trees surrounding this restored manor house. Venture to the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, where pristine landscapes offer birdwatching and hiking opportunities amidst stunning natural beauty. For a quiet afternoon, spend time appreciating the art at MassoniArt. Pleasant days and serene evenings are a Chestertown guarantee.

Massachusetts

Lenox

Lenox is known for its vibrant arts scene and stunning New England landscapes. The word respite takes on new meaning at the Black Swan Lee – Lenox, where you can hire a kayak and dine by the peaceful beauty of the lake. Lose track of time at the Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can snowshoe in winter and enjoy the meadows and brooks in warmer months. If you’ve ever lost yourself in a book, escape to the world of Edith Wharton (the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize) at her estate, The Mount, and imagine writing your own novel, with the beautiful house and grounds to inspire you. Detox and enjoy the farm-fresh food from the local Berkshire Grown movement, and settle into a Massachusetts vacation that’s blissfully detached from stress or strain.

Michigan

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, Michigan, truly rates as one of the best places to go to get away from everything. In fact, you may feel like a time traveler on Mackinac Island. As there are no automobiles (other than service trucks) on the island, the transportation of choice is a horse-drawn carriage. You can also take the reins and ride your own horse from Cindy’s Riding Stable from early May to mid-October, or you can take a bike and explore Mackinac Island State Park. Leave your diet a distant memory and indulge in some famous local fudge at Ryba’s Fudge Shop. A peaceful afternoon among the butterflies at the Butterfly House will boost your spirits in summer, while cross-country skiing is perfection in winter—the entire east half of the island is dedicated to the sport.

Minnesota

Lake Shore

Lake Shore claims the title of Minnesota’s “Year Round Playground,” and for outdoor enthusiasts especially, watch your worries melt away in this tranquil town. Meditate and explore at Fritz Loven Park, an 80-acre park with a playground, brook, wildlife, and trails for hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing. Stay at Lost Lake Lodge, an all-inclusive cabin resort with lake views and woodsy surroundings.

Rent one of the resort’s paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, rowboats, or bicycles to explore Gull Lake and its shores. Make yourself at home at a Lake Shore local favorite, Cowboys restaurant, where you’ll find friendly staff and tasty meals. In fact, you’ll feel so welcome that you may be reluctant to leave.

Mississippi

Clarksdale

Relax your blues away in the place where blues music began. Visit the Delta Blues Museum, catch live music at Red’s, pay homage at the Muddy Waters Cabin, and check out the markers along the Mississippi Blues Trail. Take to the water in a kayak or canoe on the Lower Mississippi with Quapaw Canoe Company. Then, take a literary journey and escape to Tennessee Williams’s world in the Clarksdale Historic District; the playwright’s hometown inspired several of his plays. For a unique experience that will introduce you to the local flavors and vibes, take a customized Delta Bohemian Tour, which is tailored to your specific interests. Try as you might, no visitor leaves Clarksdale still singin’ the blues.

Missouri

Shell Knob

Life doesn’t move fast in Shell Knob, Missouri, and that’s just what the doctor ordered. This is a place that encourages visitors to relax, slow down, and enjoy the pleasures of taking it easy. Admire the sweeping views of Table Rock Lake and cast a line at one of the best fishing spots in the U.S. Continue to breathe nature in on a hike through the woods of Pilot Knob Conservation Area—there’s a good chance you’ll have the trails all to yourself. For a more underground experience, explore the nearby Bridal Cave. After these euphoria-inducing activities, you can hit the town and hunt for antique treasures at Red Barn Market and Antiques.

Montana

Red Lodge

The Old West town of Red Lodge at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains in Montana is the perfect gateway to Yellowstone National Park and one of the best places to get away from it all. From Red Lodge, you can take the scenic Beartooth Highway, which is often considered one of the most beautiful stretches of road in America. What better place for a solo road trip to escape your daily woes? At the summit, you’ll see alpine lakes, glacial cirques, and snow, even in summer. For a warmer weather quest, explore the local waterways. If winter sports are your ideal getaway activity, you’ll want to head to Red Lodge Mountain for skiing and snowboarding.

Nebraska

Red Cloud

Slow down in this small, quaint Nebraska town, where you won’t deal with noise, traffic, or crowds. Take a walking tour with Walk Red Cloud to learn about the town’s history, and don’t leave without visiting the Willa Cather Foundation to learn about this important author who made Red Cloud famous with her writing. Explore the tranquil beauty of the surrounding prairies and the nearby Republican River, where you can go hiking, birdwatching, or just soak in the expansive skies and open spaces. Unwind and practice your swing on the greens at the Red Cloud Golf Course, and forget about stress when you stop in at On the Brix Tasting Room to sip wine and enjoy local art.

Nevada

Sparks

Located in the Truckee Meadows in Nevada, Sparks is a wonderful recreational spot to get away from it all and just relax. Explore the lively Victorian Square at the heart of Sparks, featuring a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the area, savoring local cuisine or catching a live performance. Chill out with a beer or two at Revision Brewing Company or sample the artisanal spirits at Seven Troughs Distilling Company. If you want to unplug further, you can venture around Sparks Marina Park, where a lake, beaches, trees, and walking paths await.

New Hampshire

Jefferson

Indulge in a rejuvenating getaway to Jefferson. Start it off by communing with nature at the Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge, where ponds, wetlands, and forests are primed for exploration. Challenge yourself to a hike on Caps Ridge Trail and be rewarded with sweeping views in every direction. If you like things more manicured, practice golf at New Hampshire’s oldest golf course, Waumbek Golf Course, or, for a more playful experience, let your inner child out at Santa’s Village. No matter your activities, start your days off right and warm with a stack of pancakes and homemade maple syrup at Jefferson’s historic Water Wheel Breakfast and Gift House.

New Jersey

Lambertville

If perusing the treasures of the past is your idea of perfect escapism, get thee to Lambertville. An artsy Victorian community with galleries and antique shops, it’s sometimes called the Antiques Capital of New Jersey. You’re sure to find some treasures at the Golden Nugget Antique Flea Market, and you may score something more contemporary at one of Lambertville’s many galleries, like Highland Arts Gallery. To rejuvenate your mind and body, indulge in a spa treatment at Zanya Spa Salon and find your flow at a RiverFlow Yoga session. Ease into evenings at Lambertville Station Restaurant and Inn while sipping a glass of wine and looking out over the Delaware River.

New Mexico

Cloudcroft

This small mountain community takes its name from a term meaning “covered in clouds,” and you’ll be on cloud nine with a much-needed break here. With a quaint downtown, Cloudcroft (and the surrounding area) are greener than most places in New Mexico, and organizations like Rails to Trails are helping optimize the beauty of the intricate abandoned rail lines that disappear into lush green forests. Repurposed as running and activity trails, they are serene spaces to hike and run.

Collect your own bowl of cherries in the u-pick summer fields at Cadwallader Mountain Farms and Orchard, or cozy up at the Lodge Resort and Spa at Cloudcroft any time of year. Stretch, breathe, and release at Instant Karma with a yoga session that takes a holistic approach.

New York

Wilmington

Sixty-two percent of Wilmington, New York, is a state forest preserve where natural splendor and outdoor adventure converge. The slopes of Whiteface Mountain are exhilarating year-round, from downhill skiing to scenic drives. Wilmington is a haven for skiing enthusiasts in the winter and transforms into a lush paradise for hikers and mountain bikers in the warmer months. Welcoming and woodsy, Adirondack Spruce Lodge at the base of Whiteface sets the scene for a real mountain retreat. You can explore the serene beauty of the Ausable River or encounter native animals and learn about conservation efforts on a visit to the Adirondack Wildlife Refuge. The goal of a successful escape is to return feeling renewed, and River Stone Wellness Center offers various types of yoga sessions to help you achieve just that.

North Carolina

Tryon

Historic, artsy, and rural enough to offer sanctuary from the pressures of everyday life, Tryon was the first village located on the rise of the Blue Mountains in North Carolina. Don’t forget to say “hi” to the town mascot, Morris the Horse, when you arrive. Fans of all things equestrian will relish a tranquil moonlight ride with FENCE Equestrian Center. Views, vines, and vintages, the three V’s of a good vacation, await you at Mountain Brook Vineyards. They welcome walk-ins, so be spontaneous or plan ahead; either way, don’t skip it. Nearby Tryon is Pearson’s Falls, a misty wonderland of greenery, where 268 acres of mosses, trees, granite, and spring-fed streams provide both a backdrop and soundtrack to a burden-free day.

North Dakota

McKenzie County

Bordered by the Yellowstone River, Lake Sakakawea, the Missouri River, and the Little Missouri River, this breathtaking destination in the far west of North Dakota is good for getting away from it all. Badlands, grasslands, and rolling fields beg exploration. Home to Theodore Roosevelt National Park, full of Great Plains wildlife and historical attractions such as the Maltese Cross Cabin, it’s also a prime spot for backcountry hiking, horseback riding, and stargazing (including opportunities to spot the aurora borealis). The Maah Daah Hey Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding, provides an exhilarating journey through the heart of the Badlands.

Ohio

Amish Country

Amish Country in Ohio offers a peaceful escape into a world where time seems to slow down. Quaint villages dot the landscape, and outdoor activities are abundant. Take a living history tour and a boat ride on the canal in Historic Roscoe Village, where charming festivals fill the calendar throughout the year. In autumn, experience the Annual Apple Butter Stirrin’ Festival or stroll the paths of the gardens of Roscoe in spring or summer. Enjoy life’s simpler pleasures and splurge on handmade goods such as Walnut Creek Cheese and Schrock’s Heritage Furniture. Slow-cooked meals made from scratch are a way of life here, and you can savor the real deal at Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen. Beyond the delicious food, Amish Country will nourish your appreciation for life’s little joys and may reset your clock in ways you didn’t expect.

Oklahoma

Sand Springs

Sand Springs serves as a wonderful home base for travelers in search of wildlife. This charming town in Oklahoma, situated on the Arkansas River, is known as one of the best places to get away from it all in the state. In the nearby Keystone Ancient Forest, you can spy numerous species, including deer, bobcats, eagles, mountain lions, and more than 80 kinds of butterflies. Plus, if you want to know just which animal you’ve spotted in the distance, trail guides are often on-site to answer questions or lead hikes. Its 1,360 acres are well worth exploring, and the Nature Conservancy lists it as one of the last great places on earth. After your forest excursion, take to the waters on Keystone Lake or Shell Lake, both of which provide great fishing and boating.

Oregon

Yachats

If you’re looking for the best places to go to get away from everything in the Pacific Northwest, Yachats, Oregon, should be at the top of your list. Lying between the Pacific Ocean and the Siuslaw National Forest, this small village is full of wonderful things to do. From forest paths to tide pools, nature beckons with a bounty of beauty.

River meets ocean at Yachats State Recreation Area, and the scenic overlook offers impressive views. The Overleaf Lodge and Spa will welcome you with ocean-view rooms, an on-site wine cove, spa services with stress-fix massages, and hand-packed “picnics by the sea.” WildCraft Cider & Pantry is the perfect stop for delicious local foods and brews, where you can also pantry goods to take home.

Pennsylvania

Clearfield County (Clearfield and DuBois)

Clearfield County, encompassing the charming towns of Clearfield and DuBois, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and rich heritage. Forests, rocks, lakes, and rolling hills surround these two cozy Pennsylvania towns. Climb the passageways and nooks of Bilger’s Rocks, then head 11 miles east to Clearfield, where you can reward yourself with sips at Wapiti Ridge Wine Cellars and a good night’s rest at a local inn. Or, hike in the massive Quehanna Wild Area, and don’t forget your camera. Waterfalls, rivers, scenic byways, and tree-lined trails beg to be photographed. Take some personal space among the trees and wildlife at Moshannon State Forest or splash in the waters of Treasure Lake. Don’t miss the chance to sample local flavors, from hearty Pennsylvania Dutch cuisine to handcrafted brews.

Rhode Island

Portsmouth

Portsmouth offers a perfect blend of New England charm and maritime beauty. This Rhode Island town encompasses four islands, including remote and beautiful Prudence Island, which is mainly accessible only by ferry. If you’re looking to leave it all behind, Prudence is where you can go when you need to get away. Aquidneck offers plenty of activities, but the pace is still delightfully relaxed.

Spend a leisurely, reflective day exploring the Green Animals Topiary Garden, where towering yet playful figures captivate visitors. Be sure to venture beyond dry land as well. Portsmouth is the home of the National Women’s Sailing Association, and water sports like fishing and sailing are tailor-made ways to unwind and embrace the coastal lifestyle.

South Carolina

Clemson

Clemson is a vibrant college town in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains that blends academic spirit with Southern charm and natural beauty. This South Carolina gem boasts stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Many area parks, including the Chau Ram County Park, provide ample opportunities to commune with nature. The 40-foot falls alone are worth a trek to this lush space. History and nature meet here; you can tour historic homes like the Ballenger House, museums like the Bob Campbell Geology Museum, forests, farms, parks, and arts centers. Not only will you not run out of things to do, but everything in Clemson moves at a pace to suit a leisurely lifestyle.

South Dakota

Garretson

If you’re looking for a place to escape the chaos of daily life, look no further than Garretson. It’s a hidden gem that offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The residents of Garretson know the absolute joys of immersing themselves in nature, and they also appreciate the peace and quiet of their charming South Dakota town. If you love nature, you’ll adore Split Rock Park. Its incredible quartzite rock formations and activities like fishing, boating, and hiking will take your breath away.

Don’t miss the visual delights of Devil’s Gulch, with its fascinating history and Palisades State Park. For an unforgettable evening, head to the Strawbale Winery for their Twilight Flights in December and February. You’ll start with wine and hors d’oeuvres, then take off on a breathtaking helicopter tour over downtown Sioux Falls.

Tennessee

Sewanee

Sewanee, a quintessential small Tennessee college town, charms visitors with its stunning campus and a library reminiscent of Hogwarts. The campus offers plenty of spots for contemplation. Embark on a hike along the Natural Bridge Trail, where you can admire an impressive natural sandstone arch as you breathe in the invigorating forest air. A stroll through Sewanee Village will take you past shops like the Lemon Fair and cherished community hubs such as the Blue Chair Café & Tavern. For a restful retreat, the Sewanee Inn welcomes guests with its grand lobby and cozy rooms, providing an additional layer of relaxation to this already serene getaway.

Texas

Big Bend area

Renowned for its exceptionally dark, starry skies—the darkest in the lower 48 states—the Big Bend area in Texas offers stunning attractions both day and night. You’ll be blown away by Big Bend National Park, where you can lose yourself in awe-inspiring rivers and forests. It’s the perfect place to escape, where you can leave all your worries behind and find an unmatched sense of tranquility.

For ultimate relaxation, the Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa offers a variety of soothing treatments to rejuvenate your spirit. Before your journey ends, make the most of your stay by stocking up on delicious treats at the French Company Grocer, perfect for a private picnic or a cozy in-room meal.

Utah

St. George

Home to some of the best spas in Utah, St. George is an ideal place for a few days of indulgent relaxation. Try Comfort Inn & Suites for the height of luxury pampering and St. George Day Spa for packages that feel like vacations in themselves. For outdoor enthusiasts, the area offers endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. A canyoneering excursion with Paragon Adventures offers one of the best ways to experience the still seclusion of slot canyons. If possible, plan for an extended stay in St. George; the captivating natural surroundings will keep you engaged, while the world-class spas ensure your relaxation and rejuvenation.

Vermont

Brandon

A relaxed getaway through all four seasons, this charming Vermont town is also the gateway to the Green Mountains. Moosalamoo National Recreation Area has provided solitude and inspiration to the likes of Robert Frost, who had a home on the northern side that you can still visit. Forests, waterfalls, lakes, and streams—what’s not to love about the inviting, secluded, and serene haven you’ll find in Brandon? The walkable downtown of Brandon exudes charm. You’ll love its unhurried pace, too. Make a stop at the charming Woods Market Garden, which carries over 50 delicious kinds of fresh produce during the season. If you’re an art enthusiast, stop by the Brandon Artists Guild, a vibrant collective that showcases the work of over 30 talented Vermont artists and artisans.

Virginia

McLean

McLean is a sophisticated Virginia enclave that seamlessly blends natural beauty with cultural richness, which makes it ideal if you’re looking for somewhere to escape for both relaxation and inspiration. Wooded parks, scenic trails, residential quiet, and historical activities lend McLean its appeal, especially for those looking to escape the D.C. hustle. Let the white noise of the rushing Potomac River lull you into carefree contentment in Great Falls Park. Prefer a little adventure? Hiking, climbing, and kayaking are great ways to explore these great falls. Stay in the present, but let your senses be transported at the Ritz-Carlton Tysons Corner Spa with its nature-inspired treatments. In the evenings, you can indulge in culture by visiting the renowned Alden Theatre for captivating performances ranging from theater to music and dance.

Washington

Goldendale

This charming eastern Washington town is the perfect spot to unwind, explore unique attractions, and take a load off. Space out at Goldendale Observatory, one of the few official Dark Sky Parks on the planet. Experts provide a one- to three-hour show with the rare opportunity to view the stars through one of the biggest public telescopes in the world. Satisfy your inner culture vulture by visiting Goldendale’s Maryhill Museum of Art, perched on a bluff overlooking the Columbia River. It hosts an eclectic collection ranging from Rodin sculptures to Native American artifacts. For a spirited cultural excursion with stunning views, head to Maryhill Winery. This remote yet welcoming winery offers a relaxed, delicious, unforgettable, and informative wine-tasting experience.

West Virginia

Moundsville

Moundsville, a captivating West Virginia town on the banks of the Ohio River, is surrounded by ancient mysteries and mystical energies. The burial mound, which the town is built around and takes its name from, was a ceremonial site for the Native Adena culture around 250 to 150 BC. Today, pilgrims of the Hare Krishna Movement, as well as curious visitors, make their way to the New Vrindaban temple to meditate in the serene atmosphere and tour breathtaking structures like the Palace of Gold. Every year, the Mystic Valley Festival is a place for event-goers to unwind, soak in good vibes, and listen to right-on jams. Visitors can also explore the area’s rich history at the Grave Creek Mound Archaeological Complex, where exhibitions reveal fascinating insights into the region’s ancient past and cultural heritage, making Moundsville a truly all-encompassing destination.

Wisconsin

Superior

Superior takes its name from more than the Great Lake; it truly is one of the most beautiful spots in Wisconsin. Of course, the lake has a little something thing to do with that. Its sheer size—Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake by surface area in the world—makes it easy to find some alone time to boat, fish, or enjoy the scenery. Pattison State Park is a serene spot near Superior where you can view waterfalls and immerse yourself in nature. Explore Big Manitou Falls, the state’s highest waterfall, for a truly awe-inspiring experience. Walk along Wisconsin Point for views of the lighthouse and bird watching. In the colder months, Superior becomes the ultimate winter wonderland, making it a great place to get away from it all the whole year round.

Wyoming

Dubois

Step into the authentic charm of Dubois, a Wyoming town that beautifully captures the spirit of the Old West, making it one of the best places to escape reality. Whether you’re seeking to cure your frontier fever or fulfill your Wild West daydreams, Dubois is an ideal retreat. Start your adventure with a trusty steed from Bitterroot Ranch, where expert-guided pack trips promise rugged and unforgettable experiences. For a more relaxed pace, their annual summer yoga and horseback riding retreat offers a unique blend of tranquility and adventure. In winter, Dubois transforms into a haven for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing, while hiking and kayaking are ideal for exploring the stunning landscapes during the warmer months.