Romantic getaways don’t have to mean a long flight. Some of the best escapes for couples are a short drive from home: a historic inn on a quiet main street, a cabin in the woods with a hot tub and a fireplace, a lakeside B&B, or a boutique hotel in a walkable small town with good restaurants close by.
This collection gathers every Guides to Getaways article written for couples, from anniversary and honeymoon ideas to Valentine’s Day weekends, winter cabin escapes and fall foliage trips. Each guide pairs things to do with a place to stay, so you can plan the whole weekend in one visit.
Each article links to the featured property’s own website, so you can check rates, read about the rooms and book directly. Whether you have one night or a long weekend, you’ll find ideas sized to the time you have.
Not sure where to start? Choose your state below. Each state guide brings together the most romantic places to stay, date-night ideas and seasonal tips for that part of the country. Planning something bigger? Browse our guides to elopement packages and small wedding venues, or see the best weekend getaways for couples across the U.S.
Romantic Getaways by State
Romantic getaways in Pennsylvania
Romantic getaways in Wisconsin
Romantic getaways in Galena, Illinois
Romantic getaways in Ohio’s Hocking Hills
Romantic getaways in Washington State
Romantic getaways in Texas
Romantic getaways in Vermont
Romantic getaways in upstate New York
Romantic getaways in New England
Romantic getaways in Maryland
Romantic getaways in Kentucky
Romantic getaways in North Carolina
Romantic getaways in Oregon
Romantic getaways in Iowa
Romantic getaways in Florida
Romantic getaways in Mississippi
Romantic getaways in Nashville, Tennessee
Romantic getaways in Virginia
Celebrating an anniversary is about more than marking another year. It’s about reconnecting and creating space for meaningful moments together. For couples searching for anniversary getaway ideas near Pittsburgh and DC, a Deep Creek Lake romantic getaway offers a setting that feels special from the moment you arrive. The late winter and early spring season adds an extra layer of romance, with crisp mountain air, quiet lake views, and cozy spaces designed for time together.
Winter days at Deep Creek Lake invite relaxation. Mornings start with hot coffee and a peaceful view of the frozen shoreline. Spend the day snowshoeing through the woods, skiing at Wisp Resort just across the street, or simply enjoying the comfort of staying in. In the evenings, share a bottle of wine, enjoy an intimate dinner, and let the conversation last without distractions. These are the kinds of moments that turn a romantic anniversary getaway into a core memory.
Couples also love that Deep Creek Lake offers variety without feeling busy. One day can be filled with outdoor adventure, while the next is perfect for massages, sauna time, or browsing local shops. When planning anniversary getaway ideas in Maryland, it’s this balance of activity and rest that makes the experience feel personal.
As one of the most intimate Deep Creek Lake Hotels, Lake Pointe Inn places you directly on the shores of the lake. Private guest rooms provide a comfortable, luxurious space to unwind after a day of exploring the best things to do in Deep Creek Lake. Many couples choose anniversary getaway packages that include flowers, chocolates, wine, or Champagne, making it easy to celebrate without having to plan every detail.
Dining is another highlight of a stay in this region of Maryland. Enjoy romantic dinners at local favorites like Dutch’s at Silver Tree, Firewater Kitchen, or Pine Lodge Steakhouse. Each morning, breakfast is prepared for you at the Inn, so you can focus on enjoying the day ahead. If you’re looking for anniversary getaway ideas that combine romance, comfort, and mountain charm, Deep Creek Lake delivers. Book your stay and create an anniversary worth savoring.
There’s something about autumn in western Pennsylvania that asks to be shared with someone you love. Mornings turn crisp, the hills around Mercer County shift into gold and red, and every dinner feels a little more special. If you’re mapping out fall getaways in PA this year, Mercer County belongs on the list, about an hour from Pittsburgh and far enough off the beaten path that you won’t be fighting the crowds you’d find in the Poconos or Lancaster County.
Fall color in this part of the state typically peaks in late September through the first two to three weeks of October, a little earlier than the fall foliage Pennsylvania is best known for further east. It’s worth checking a current PA fall foliage map before you lock in dates, since timing shifts slightly year to year depending on temperature and rainfall. Booking a week or two ahead of peak color also means first pick of rooms, since fall weekends fill fast with couples chasing the same view.
Tara, A Country Inn, is a historic 1854 mansion set among old-growth trees that turn brilliant color right outside your window each fall. Individually decorated guest rooms with jetted tubs and gas fireplaces set the tone for a fall foliage getaway before the weekend even starts, and the property offers the kind of bed-and-breakfast-style amenities that couples planning romantic getaways in PA specifically look for.
Dinner doesn’t require leaving the grounds. Stonewall’s Tavern offers a relaxed, pub-style setting for a casual night in, while Ashley’s Fine Dining Room serves a multi-course prix fixe menu with live piano for a special-occasion evening. Vivien’s, a poolside restaurant new to the property, rounds out the day with casual, creative fare for lunch. It’s entirely possible to unpack once and build a full weekend without getting back in the car.
Part of what makes this one of the best fall getaways in Pennsylvania is how much sits within a short drive. The Trout Island Trail, the Shenango Trail, and the Big Bend Trailhead all offer easy, well-marked routes for a couple’s afternoon walk, with the Shenango River Lake just a few steps from the inn’s property. For a longer day out, Maurice K. Goddard State Park and Pymatuning State Park both deliver quiet picnic spots and some of the best foliage viewing in the region.
Guests staying at the inn also have boat parking on-site and sit minutes from Shenango River Lake, ideal for a scenic paddle or a slow drive along the shoreline. The Mercer County Wine, Brew & Spirits Trail is an easy fit for a fall afternoon, with a self-guided route through local wineries, breweries, and distilleries built for splitting a flight together. Downtown Sharon offers walkable shopping without the crowds, and the Grove City Premium Outlets are a short drive away for a bigger outing.
When is peak fall foliage in Pennsylvania?
In Mercer County and the surrounding region, color typically peaks in late September through the first few weeks of October, slightly earlier than the peak foliage window in eastern Pennsylvania.
Where can I see fall foliage in Pennsylvania?
Mercer County offers strong foliage viewing along the Trout Island Trail, Shenango Trail, and at both Maurice K. Goddard and Pymatuning State Parks, all within easy driving distance of downtown Sharon.
Where is the best fall getaway in PA?
Western Pennsylvania’s Mercer County offers a quieter alternative to the Poconos or Lancaster County, with wooded trails, a wine trail, and a historic bed and breakfast that make it one of the best fall getaways in PA for couples who want scenery without the crowds. For more year-round ideas, see these romantic getaways in Pennsylvania.
Should I check a fall foliage map before booking?
Yes. Checking a current PA fall foliage map shortly before your trip helps confirm timing, since peak color can shift slightly from year to year based on weather conditions.
Most lists of fall weekend getaways hand you a dozen towns and a paragraph about leaves. A better fall getaway starts with one place worth staying put in, then adds a few good afternoons nearby. Buhl Mansion Boutique Hotel & Spa, a restored 1896 castle on East State Street in Sharon, PA, suits exactly that kind of couples getaway, with fireplace rooms, an on-site spa, and some of the best autumn in Pennsylvania within an hour’s drive.
Steel industrialist Frank H. Buhl built this Richardsonian Romanesque mansion for his wife, Julia, and its sandstone walls, turrets, and carved woodwork feel right in cooler weather. By October, the gas fireplaces are in regular use and the gardens around the castle have turned gold and rust.
Mercer County’s Wine, Brew & Spirits Trail runs two loops: a southern route through Amish farm country and a northern route toward Pymatuning Lake. For a short outing, Webb Winery in Hermitage is a few minutes from the castle and makes its wines from Pennsylvania-grown fruit. For a longer drive, Gatehouse Winery sits in the hills above Pymatuning Lake, where you can share a bottle and a charcuterie board with a view of the water. Gatehouse is open Wednesday through Sunday, so plan the northern loop accordingly. Our wine, brew, and spirits trail guide covers every stop in more detail.
Buhl Mansion has ten guest rooms, each with a gas fireplace and a two-person Jacuzzi tub, and several are set inside the castle’s turrets. Champagne is waiting at check-in, and breakfast can be brought to your room the next morning. Guests also have use of the steam room and sauna on the lower level.
With only ten rooms and a policy of welcoming guests 18 and older, the house stays quiet. For most couples, that quiet is the point of a fall getaway. Plan on a second cup of coffee by the window before you head out for the day.
If you are driving in from Pittsburgh, about an hour and fifteen minutes away, the fall foliage in Pennsylvania’s northwest corner gives you a reason to take the long way. Three historic covered bridges make an easy route: Kidd’s Mill in Mercer County, Banks Covered Bridge near New Wilmington, and the bridge at McConnell’s Mill State Park, which crosses Slippery Rock Creek inside a steep, wooded gorge. Color in this part of the state usually peaks in mid-October. Our covered bridges guide includes directions and drive times from the castle.
Cool air makes a warm treatment room more appealing. The Buhl Mansion Spa offers couples massages, body wraps, facials, and a head spa treatment. A treatment on the afternoon you arrive sets the tone for the rest of your stay, and spa appointments are the one part of the weekend worth reserving well in advance.
A wine trail afternoon, a covered bridge drive, a spa treatment, and a fireplace room will fill a full weekend with very little planning. If you are comparing romantic hotels in Pennsylvania, reserve directly with us for the full choice of rooms and our current specials.
Book your fall getaway at Buhl Mansion
When is peak fall foliage in Pennsylvania?
Peak color varies by region and elevation. In northwestern Pennsylvania, including Mercer and Lawrence counties, it typically arrives in mid-October. The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources publishes a weekly fall foliage report throughout the season.
Where is a good weekend getaway for couples near Pittsburgh?
Sharon, PA, is about an hour and fifteen minutes north of Pittsburgh. Buhl Mansion pairs an adults-only castle stay with an on-site spa, nearby wineries, and three historic covered bridges within an hour’s drive.
What makes a good fall getaway in Pennsylvania?
A good fall getaway combines a comfortable place to stay with a few easy outings. In Mercer County, that means a winery afternoon, a covered bridge drive during peak foliage, and an evening by the fireplace.
Is Buhl Mansion open for fall weekend stays?
Yes. Fall is one of the property’s most requested seasons, so we recommend booking rooms and spa treatments early.
Fall is the best time to follow the Berks County Wine Trail, and a weekend built around it makes an easy, romantic getaway for couples looking to slow down. As the hills around Wernersville and Reading turn gold and rust, the trail’s ten family-owned wineries roll out harvest tastings, live music, and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer over a glass of wine with someone you love.
You do not need to be a wine expert to enjoy it. The Berks County Wine Trail is relaxed, with each winery bringing its own personality, from small-batch reds to fruit wines.
Lily’s Vineyard in Reading is one of the easiest first stops if you are coming from the inn. It sits right on Skyline Drive with a homestead feel and a family history on the property that goes back generations.
From there, most stops on the trail run about thirty to forty-five minutes from The South Mountain Inn, so plan for some driving between pours. Ridgewood Winery in Birdsboro sits on Ridgewood Farmstead, a nationally registered historic site with buildings dating to the early 1700s, and its wines have picked up a number of regional awards over the years.
Manatawny Creek Winery in Douglassville sits along the banks of the Manatawny Creek on a ninety-acre family farm, with a deck that overlooks the property, an easy place to sit for a while with a glass of Cabernet Franc or Riesling. Setter Ridge Vineyards in Kutztown offers a tasting pavilion with views of thirty acres of vines, and Stoudt’s Winery in Shartlesville, just off I-78, leans into fruit wines, with a small but devoted following for its plum.
Hours and seasonal events vary winery to winery, so it is worth checking each one’s website before you go. Picking two or three stops for the day, rather than trying to see the whole Berks County Wine Trail at once, makes for a far more enjoyable pace.
Fall foliage across this part of Pennsylvania tends to peak in mid to late October, which lines up well with harvest season at most wineries. If you are looking for other things to do in Berks County, PA, between tastings, the area also offers farmers markets, small town shopping, and local dining worth building into your weekend. Just be sure to check each winery’s hours ahead of time, since several trim their schedules later in the week.
After a day of tastings, The South Mountain Inn is a comfortable place to land. Our Reading PA Bed and Breakfast sits on seven wooded acres just twenty minutes from the city, with rooms that come with fresh baked cookies, cozy robes, and morning coffee delivered to your door. In the evening, the fire pit out front is the perfect spot to unwind with someone special, and in the morning, our farm-style breakfast is the ideal way to fuel up before heading back out to the vineyards. Guests looking for a quieter moment can also wander down to say hello to the inn’s resident miniature donkeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Berks County Wine Trail?
The Berks County Wine Trail is a group of ten family-owned wineries spread across Berks County, Pennsylvania, each producing its own style of wine, from traditional vinifera to fruit wines.
How many wineries are on the Berks County Wine Trail?
The trail currently includes ten member wineries, with stops ranging from Reading to Shartlesville, Kutztown, and beyond.
When is the best time to visit the Berks County Wine Trail?
Fall is a favorite season, with harvest tastings, seasonal events, and foliage that peaks in mid to late October.
How far is the Berks County Wine Trail from Reading, PA?
Most wineries on the trail sit within a thirty-to forty-five-minute drive of Reading, making it easy to visit several stops in a day from a home base in the area.
Do I need reservations for wineries on the Berks County Wine Trail?
Reservation policies vary by winery. It is best to check each winery’s website ahead of time, especially during busy fall weekends.
If you are planning a fall getaway built around wine, foliage, and good company, we would love to host you. Book your stay at The South Mountain Inn today.
Winter on Maryland’s Eastern Shore offers couples an opportunity to slow things down and reconnect during a Valentine’s Day getaway designed around ease and intention. Just a short drive from Washington, DC, Baltimore, and Philadelphia, the coast feels refreshingly quiet this time of year. Open landscapes, waterfront views, and charming towns create a romantic backdrop that invites you to enjoy each other’s company without distraction.
A Valentine’s Day getaway here is less about checking off activities and more about shared moments. Winter days lend themselves to long walks along the water, afternoons spent reading by the fire, and lingering dinners at local restaurants. For couples seeking a weekend getaway near Washington, DC, the Eastern Shore delivers the perfect balance of accessibility and escape.
The Inn at Huntingfield Creek offers a luxury Rock Hall Bed and Breakfast experience designed specifically for couples. Located in Rock Hall, one of the Eastern Shore’s most historic coastal towns, the inn blends thoughtful hospitality with comfortable guest rooms and peaceful surroundings. Each accommodation is carefully appointed to encourage slow mornings, early evenings, and uninterrupted time together.
Guests begin their days with a beautifully prepared breakfast, then choose how the rest of the day unfolds. Common areas invite quiet conversation, shared coffee, or a glass of wine in the afternoon. Outside, the grounds provide space to wander and breathe in the stillness that defines winter along Maryland’s coast. It’s easy to see why this inn ranks among the best romantic getaways near Washington, DC.
Beyond the inn, couples can explore Rock Hall and nearby towns like Chestertown and St. Michaels. There are so many wonderful things to do on the Eastern Shore. Browse local shops, enjoy seasonal menus, or take a scenic drive to Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge to see winter wildlife together. For those interested in wine tasting, nearby vineyards like Crow Vineyard offer relaxed winter experiences without crowds.
A Valentine’s Day getaway on Maryland’s coast is about creating space for both connection and rest. Whether you spend your time exploring or staying in by the fire, winter on the Eastern Shore offers couples a chance to reset and focus on what matters most. Book your romantic getaway in Rock Hall and experience a Valentine’s escape that feels both effortless and memorable.
Wausau has a way of surprising couples looking for a Valentine’s Day getaway. Set in the heart of the Midwest, this winter destination blends culture, dining, and outdoor beauty into an experience that feels intimate rather than overdone. Snow-covered streets, glowing storefronts, and a welcoming downtown set the tone for a couple’s getaway designed around connection. There’s a surprising array of things to do in Wausau.
A romantic weekend in Wisconsin doesn’t have to feel rushed or crowded. In Wausau, couples can plan a Valentine’s Day weekend getaway that moves at their own pace. Spend an evening at The Grand Theater enjoying a live performance, or explore the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum for a quiet afternoon surrounded by inspiring exhibitions. Walking hand in hand through the River District and historic downtown is one of the simplest ways to experience the charm of the city, with independent shops and inviting restaurants just steps away.
Dining is a highlight of any Valentine’s Day getaway, and Wausau offers excellent options for couples. Ciao is known for romantic meals and a warm atmosphere, while Back When Cafe offers an approachable yet memorable dining experience close to your stay. For something more relaxed, Red Eye Brewing Company is perfect for sharing a flight and unwinding together.
Choosing the right place to stay turns a couple’s getaway into something unforgettable. As one of the most Romantic Hotels in Wisconsin, our historic yet refined property is designed with couples in mind. Spacious guest suites feature steam showers, spa-like bathrooms, and elegant finishes, with fireplaces available in select rooms. Each morning begins with a gourmet breakfast, followed by a nightly reception that invites couples to relax and reconnect.
Winter adventures are never far away. A scenic walk or snowshoe through Nine Mile County Recreation Area offers sweeping views of the area, while Granite Peak Ski Area adds a playful, adventurous option to your Valentine’s Day getaway. After a day out, returning to a warm, welcoming hotel makes all the difference.
Whether you’re planning an anniversary trip, a romantic winter escape, or a spontaneous weekend getaway for couples, Wausau delivers an experience that feels authentic and meaningful. Book your Valentine’s Day getaway today and make this winter one to remember.
If you are searching for where to stay in Vermont for a meaningful escape together, West Hill House, a Vermont Bed and Breakfast in New England, offers the ideal setting. Surrounded by the beauty of the Green Mountains and tucked along a quiet country lane in Warren, this is where couples come to slow down, reconnect, and experience the very best of the Mad River Valley.
Every season brings new opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Spend your days exploring scenic backroads, covered bridges, and charming villages. Discover the best things to do in the Mad River Valley, from hiking and biking to skiing at Sugarbush or Mad River Glen. Sample craft beverages, farm-to-table dining, and specialty foods made in Vermont. Whether you prefer outdoor excursions or cozy afternoons indoors, this region offers something for every couple.
Choosing the right lodging in Vermont makes all the difference. Our historic Bed and Breakfast in Vermont blends timeless New England charm with modern comfort. With nine uniquely appointed guest rooms and suites, you will find inviting spaces featuring pillow-top beds, private en-suite baths, gas fireplaces, and jetted tubs.
Beyond your room, enjoy shared spaces like the library, sunroom, and living room, perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine or a favorite book. Our beautifully landscaped nine-acre property offers perennial gardens and peaceful corners for quiet walks or conversation.
Enhance your couples getaway with our Luxurious Pampering package, complete with flowers, bubbly, Vermont chocolates, cozy robes, massages, and a romantic dinner for two. Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared multi-course breakfast that sets the tone for another day of exploration.
When you are deciding where to stay in Vermont, choose an experience that blends connection, comfort, and access to the best things to do in the Mad River Valley. Book your Vermont Bed and Breakfast stay today and start planning your next unforgettable couples retreat.
Winter in the Midwest has a way of encouraging couples to slow down and reconnect, and there’s no better place to do that than during a Wisconsin winter getaway. When fresh snow blankets the landscape and the air turns crisp, this season invites both quiet moments and memorable experiences shared together. Whether you prefer relaxing indoors or exploring all the things to do nearby, a romantic escape in Wisconsin delivers the perfect balance.
Hidden Serenity, an upscale Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin, is ideally positioned for couples seeking a cozy retreat paired with adventure. Located just outside West Bend, this romantic Wisconsin bed and breakfast offers easy access to charming towns like Cedarburg as well as scenic destinations such as the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Winter days can be spent snowshoeing, skiing, or enjoying peaceful walks before returning to a warm and welcoming atmosphere designed for two.
With only seven thoughtfully designed guest rooms, the inn offers an intimate setting that naturally encourages relaxation and connection. Couples often spend their time enjoying fireside conversations, playing board games in the common areas, or taking in the quiet beauty of the property’s trails during winter.
One of the most memorable parts of a Wisconsin winter getaway is the complimentary 90-minute spa experience. Designed to restore both body and mind, the spa includes a steam room, sauna, jetted hot tub, cold deluge shower, and cozy seating near the fireplace. Large windows frame the surrounding forest, creating a peaceful environment that feels worlds away from daily routines.
Mornings begin with a freshly prepared breakfast served in the dining room. Seasonal menus rotate between sweet and savory dishes, offering something hearty and satisfying before another day of exploring. From romantic sleigh rides and winter sports to museums, theaters, and local dining, there are countless things to do in West Bend, WI during the colder months.
If you’re dreaming of a winter getaway in Wisconsin that blends romance, comfort, and unforgettable experiences, this is the season to plan your escape.
Couples planning memorable New Hampshire getaways often discover that where you stay defines the entire experience. Historic New Hampshire hotels like ours offer something modern properties cannot replicate: A sense of place, continuity, and character that elevates every moment of your trip. Along the New Hampshire Seacoast, Exeter stands out as one of the most rewarding destinations for couples seeking all of this and more.
Exeter blends classic New England architecture with a vibrant arts scene, locally owned shops, and a welcoming downtown that invites exploration. There are plenty of things to do in Exeter and beyond. Strolling through town feels natural and unrushed, whether you are browsing galleries, visiting historic landmarks, or enjoying coffee together in a cozy café. Its proximity to the coast also makes Exeter an ideal base for discovering beaches, lighthouses, and nearby Portsmouth, one of the region’s most dynamic waterfront towns.
The Inn by the Bandstand is among the most distinctive New Hampshire hotels, offering couples a stay rooted in history without sacrificing luxury. This landmark 1809 mansion reflects Exeter’s heritage through preserved architectural details, thoughtfully designed common spaces, and beautifully appointed guest rooms. Seven of the eight rooms feature fireplaces, creating an intimate atmosphere perfect for couples seeking warmth and connection.
Modern comforts enhance the experience, including concierge service that assists with dining reservations, curated day trips, car service, and personalized romantic touches. The property is also one of the most welcoming dog-friendly hotels in New Hampshire, making it easy to travel with your four-legged companion.
Evenings often center around Ambrose, the onsite restaurant, and one of the most celebrated dining destinations in the region. Seasonal menus, creative plates meant for sharing, and an elegant dining room with a fireplace make dinner feel like an event rather than a reservation.
Beyond our boutique hotel, couples can explore walking paths along the Squamscott River, enjoy scenic coastal drives, visit Seacoast museums, or plan a day trip to Portsmouth’s historic streets and harbor views. Every outing feels balanced by the comfort of returning to one of the best hotels in New Hampshire for couples.
However you spend your time, you can relax knowing this refined Exeter retreat offers one of the most rewarding couples’ escapes in New Hampshire.