Romantic Getaways for Couples by State
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
The Best Month to Visit Florida
Best Time to Visit Florida if You Want the Coast to Yourself
If you are trying to figure out the best time to visit Florida, the answer depends on what you want out of the trip. But if a quiet stretch of sand, warm water, and no long waits for dinner table, the answer gets a lot simpler: late February through April, or October into mid-November.
Those windows split the difference. Temperatures sit in the mid-70s to low 80s, humidity backs off, hurricane risk drops, and rates come down from winter’s holiday peak. Summer has its own appeal, warmer water and cheaper rooms, but it comes with daily thunderstorms and the height of hurricane season. If a romantic escape is the priority, spring and fall are the seasons you are looking for.
That sweet spot is exactly why couples looking for the best time to visit Florida beaches keep landing on Flagler Beach, a small town tucked between St. Augustine and Daytona Beach that rarely makes the big lists. No high-rises, no boardwalk crowds, just cinnamon-colored sand and an easygoing, artsy beach town that has drawn surfers here for decades.
Flagler Beach Weather by Season
Flagler Beach runs a touch milder than the rest of the state, which is part of its appeal for a couple’s getaway.
In the winter months (December through February) expect day time temperatures between 60s and 70°F, wtih evenings cool enough for a light jacket over dinner.
March through May, is the window locals recommend. With average temperatures between 71 and 86 degrees, the water starts warming up nicely.
During the summer months, high temperatures are in the upper 80s to low 90s with humidity and near-daily afternoon storms. While it’s great swimming, plan around the rain.
Fall is the quiet favorite. Highs sit in the high 60s and the lows hover around 58°F. The crowds thin out enough that you may have long stretches of beach entirely to yourselves.
Is Summer Worth It in Flagler Beach?
If heat and the occasional storm do not bother you, summer has its own rewards: the warmest water of the year and prime conditions for swimming and surfing. Just build your beach time around the afternoon thunderstorms, which tend to roll in like clockwork.
What to Do in Flagler Beach
Walk or bike through Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area, just south of the inn
Drive the scenic stretch of A1A along the coast
Browse the small shops and restaurants on South Central Avenue
Watch the sunrise from the beach, coffee in hand
Take the 40-minute drive to St. Augustine to enjoy one of the oldest cities in the country
Where to Stay for a Romantic Escape
Once you have settled on your best time to visit Florida, the next decision is where to base yourselves. Island Cottage Inn sits on the quiet southern end of Flagler Beach, an adults-only, oceanfront boutique hotel. Nine individually decorated suites blend modern and vintage pieces with a nod to Old Florida and the French seaside, each outfitted with Helix mattresses, 100% cotton sheets, and Public Goods bath products.
Mornings start with a gourmet continental breakfast on the deck, including the Flagler Beach Hotels scratch-made banana bread. Friday afternoons bring a Happy Hour with wine and a cheese plate by the pool. Complimentary bikes make it easy to ride into town, to Gamble Rogers Recreation Area or to one of the other great things to do in Flagler Beach.
From here, St. Augustine’s restaurants and historic streets are about 45 minutes north, and Daytona Beach is roughly an 45 minutes south, close enough for a day trip. Book your stay at Island Cottage Inn to lock in your dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Florida overall?
Late February through April, or October into mid-November, when the weather is comfortable, humidity is lower, and hurricane risk drops.
What is the best time to visit Florida beaches specifically?
April and October hit the sweet spot. Warm enough to swim, without summer’s humidity or storm odds working against you.
Is there a best time to visit Florida to avoid hurricanes?
Traveling outside hurricane season entirely, December through May, is the safest bet, though any given week during the season is still unlikely to bring a direct hit.
What is the weather like in Flagler Beach specifically?
Flagler Beach runs slightly milder than much of Florida, with the most comfortable weather in spring and fall. Winters stay in the 60s and 70s, and summers bring heat, humidity, and daily afternoon storms.
How far is Flagler Beach from St. Augustine?
About 40 minutes by car, making it an easy day trip from Island Cottage Inn.
The Best Valentine’s Day Getaways in the Midwest
Best Valentine’s Weekend Getaways for Couples in the Midwest
Winter in the Midwest creates an ideal backdrop for Valentine’s weekend getaways for couples who want time together without distractions. Snow-dusted towns, cozy downtowns, and inviting cultural hubs across the region offer memorable ways to celebrate love while enjoying a slower pace. Whether couples prefer quiet riverside walks or evenings filled with dining and live music, the Midwest delivers meaningful winter escapes designed for connection.
Romantic getaways in Wisconsin continue to draw couples to Door County and charming small towns like Cedarburg and Galena nearby in Illinois. These destinations blend scenic beauty with walkable streets, local wine tastings, and intimate dining experiences that feel especially inviting in winter. Romantic weekend getaways in Minnesota range from historic river towns like Stillwater and Lanesboro to Minneapolis and St Paul, where couples can enjoy world-class restaurants, museums, and theater before retreating for a cozy night in.
Michigan adds variety with winter weekend getaways for couples in places like Traverse City, Saugatuck, and Frankenmuth. Snowy lake views, creative communities, and relaxed downtowns help romantic getaways feel elevated without feeling overplanned. Romantic getaways in Iowa and Nebraska offer a quieter charm, with river towns like Decorah, Clinton, and Nebraska City providing beautiful scenery, historic architecture, and welcoming local culture perfect for couples seeking something unhurried.
Romantic Places to Stay for Valentine’s Weekend Getaways
Where couples stay often defines the experience, and the Midwest Association of Independent Inns offers exceptional options for romantic winter getaways. From bed and breakfasts and boutique inns to private retreats, these properties are designed with couples in mind. Guests enjoy thoughtfully prepared breakfasts, comfortable common spaces, and rooms filled with character that encourage relaxation and conversation.
Many romantic places to stay include fireplaces, spa tubs, and private outdoor spaces that naturally enhance Valentine’s weekend getaways. Innkeepers elevate the experience further by sharing local insight, recommending dining spots, scenic drives, and winter activities that feel personal rather than predictable.
With so many romantic weekend getaways for couples available across the Midwest, winter becomes an opportunity to reconnect in meaningful ways. Browse unique places to stay and start planning Valentine’s weekend getaways that feel intentional, warm, and memorable.
The Most Romantic Restaurants in Durham, NC
Plan a Romantic Getaway Around Durham’s Best Tables
Romantic restaurants in Durham, NC make it easy to plan a special night out, whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply carving out time for dinner together. Durham has built one of the most exciting dining scenes in North Carolina, with everything from intimate French bistros and inventive small plates to polished steakhouses and destination-worthy sushi. Whatever the occasion, there are plenty of date-night restaurants in Durham, NC, to suit it.
Durham sits in the Triangle, so a great dinner can easily become a full romantic getaway with so many things to do in Durham. Spend the afternoon at the North Carolina Museum of Art in Raleigh before your reservation, or catch a show at DPAC near some of the best fine dining in Durham, NC. Several of the best restaurants near Duke University also make it easy to grab dinner, then walk around campus or visit Duke Chapel and the Gardens afterward.
Romantic Restaurants in Durham, NC: Where We Send Our Guests
- For a livelier night out, we send couples to Mateo Bar de Tapas, where Spanish tapas meet ingredients and flavors from the American South. Its wine program includes one of the largest sherry offerings in the country, so order several plates for the table and try something unfamiliar.
- If your idea of a date night restaurant in Durham, NC leans French and unhurried, Vin Rouge on Hillsborough Road serves classics like escargots and duck confit in a cozy setting, and its location makes it one of the most convenient restaurants near Duke University.
- For a polished steakhouse experience, NanaSteak sits next to DPAC at the American Tobacco Campus, serving prime steaks and seafood alongside a wine program that has earned Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence since 2023, a good pairing with dinner before or after a show.
- Nikos brings Greek cuisine and Aegean flavors back to historic Brightleaf Square, with shareable meze, spreads, and seafood, plus an outdoor terrace along Brightleaf’s brick-lined streets.
- Little Bull, in Durham’s Old Five Points neighborhood, is where we send couples who want something unexpected. Chef Oscar Diaz, a two-time James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Southeast, describes his cooking as “pocho” cuisine, and the seasonally changing menu includes inventive ceviches worth building a night around.
- Alley Twenty Six became the first North Carolina bar to be named a James Beard Foundation Outstanding Bar Program finalist in 2022. Beyond cocktails, the menu includes oysters, small plates, and a signature burger with black truffle cheddar and bourbon bacon jam, a good pick for a special night without the formality of traditional fine dining.
- M Sushi keeps things seafood-forward and quietly upscale, with an intimate lower-level dining room in downtown Durham and a concise menu of seasonal seafood sourced from Japan, Korea, and the United States. Omakase options turn dinner into more of an experience than a meal.
- Parizade, in Erwin Square near Duke, pairs an elegant dining room with Mediterranean-inspired dishes, an open kitchen, and a strong wine program, plus seasonal wine dinners that give couples a reason to return.
Your Bed and Breakfast in North Carolina for the Rest of the Night
The best romantic restaurants in Durham, NC become even more enjoyable when you don’t have to rush home afterward. Arrowhead Inn is a Bed and Breakfast in North Carolina on a historic property dating to 1775, and it’s the only Select Registry and Four Diamond property serving the Triangle cities of Durham, Raleigh, and Chapel Hill. From here, some of Durham’s best dining is a short drive away, and you can return afterward to one of our guest rooms, the Carolina Log Cabin, or the Garden Cottage.
The Carolina Log Cabin features a flagstone fireplace, a king sleeping loft, and a private porch, while the Garden Cottage offers a more secluded, garden-set retreat. You can round out an anniversary or date-night stay with additions like sparkling wine, chocolate-covered strawberries, fresh flowers, or the inn’s All You Need Is Love Romance Package. The next morning brings a gourmet three-course breakfast made with fresh ingredients, including herbs from the inn’s own gardens, served at your table in the Keeping Room or out on the veranda.
Book your romantic getaway today and experience the most romantic restaurants in Durham, NC for yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best romantic restaurants in Durham, NC?
Mateo Bar de Tapas, Vin Rouge, NanaSteak, Nikos, Little Bull, Alley Twenty Six, M Sushi, and Parizade are among the romantic restaurants in Durham, NC that we recommend most often to guests.
What are good date night restaurants near Duke University?
Vin Rouge on Hillsborough Road and Parizade in Erwin Square are both close to Duke University and make convenient choices for a date night dinner before or after visiting campus.
Where should I stay for a romantic weekend in Durham, NC?
Arrowhead Inn, a Bed and Breakfast in North Carolina dating to 1775, is the only Select Registry and Four Diamond property serving the Triangle and makes a comfortable base for a romantic getaway.
Is Durham, NC good for a date night?
Yes. Durham’s dining scene ranges from intimate French bistros to upscale steakhouses and sushi, and its proximity to Duke University, DPAC, and Sarah P. Duke Gardens makes it easy to build a full evening or weekend around dinner.
The Most Romantic Small Towns in Virginia
Best Small Towns in Virginia for Romantic Getaways
Virginia sets the stage for romance in ways that feel natural and easy, especially in Nelson County and the surrounding region. Rolling hills, scenic drives, historic downtowns, and a strong local food and wine culture make this area home to some of the best small towns in Virginia for couples seeking meaningful time together.
Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, towns like Lovingston and Charlottesville offer fantastic things to do and see. Lovingston provides open views, quiet roads, and close ties to the area’s agricultural roots. Spend your days visiting local wineries, cideries, and breweries, many of which sit along scenic back roads with mountain views. Farm stands, art studios, and historic sites add character, while hiking trails and overlooks invite you to slow down and enjoy the landscape.
Charlottesville, just over 30 minutes away, delivers a lively contrast. Its walkable Downtown Mall is filled with shops, restaurants, and live music, making it one of the best small towns in Virginia for food-focused romantic getaways. Couples can delight in historic dining, explore the wonders of Monticello, or spend a lovely afternoon together tasting new flavors. The beautiful countryside adds a natural touch to their memorable experience, even after a fun evening!
Lynchburg and Staunton are also easy day trips from Nelson County. Lynchburg’s James River setting is ideal for waterfront walks, kayaking, and casual dining, while Staunton shines with arts, theater, and independent shops. Experiences like the Virginia Scenic Railway or an evening at the American Shakespeare Center add something memorable to a romantic itinerary.
A Romantic Lovingston, VA Bed and Breakfast
After exploring these cute small towns in Virginia, returning to a comfortable place to unwind matters. The Orchard House B&B is a classic, yet modern Lovingston VA Bed and Breakfast that offers a welcoming setting designed for couples who value privacy, comfort, and thoughtful hospitality. Guests enjoy homemade breakfasts, inviting outdoor spaces, and easy access to the best places in Virginia for wine tasting, scenic drives, and relaxed evenings together.
Whether you’re planning a weekend away or celebrating a special milestone, these romantic getaways in Virginia offer experiences that feel personal. Book your stay and start exploring the best small towns in Virginia. It will be easy to see why this state has earned its tagline: Virginia is for lovers.
The Perfect Valentine’s Day Getaway Near Chicago
Best Valentine’s Day Getaway for Couples in Galena
Galena has a way of turning a simple winter escape into something truly memorable, which is why it continues to rank among the best Valentine’s Day getaway destinations for couples. This historic Midwest town pairs charming streets with elevated dining, shopping, and experiences that feel tailor-made for connection. Add in its easy drive from Chicago and other nearby cities, and Galena becomes an effortless Valentine’s Day weekend getaway that still feels special.
Winter adds an extra layer of romance to Galena. Soft lights glow along Main Street in the evenings, intimate restaurants invite lingering dinners, and boutique shops encourage slow afternoons spent together. Couples can enjoy wine tastings, explore scenic overlooks, or relax with spa experiences that make the season feel indulgent rather than cold. If you’re searching for romantic things to do in Galena, IL, during a Valentine’s Day getaway, you’ll find options that suit both relaxed and adventurous couples.
A Galena Bed and Breakfast Designed for Couples
Where you stay matters just as much as what you do, and our luxury Galena Bed and Breakfast offers an experience that consistently stands above other places to stay in Galena. Each luxury suite is designed with couples in mind, featuring spacious layouts, fireplaces, spa-style bathrooms, deep soaking tubs, and premium linens. Thoughtful details, including in-room Bluetooth sound systems and inviting common spaces, create an atmosphere that feels refined and comfortable.
Hospitality is at the heart of the experience. Mornings begin with a gourmet breakfast, while afternoons invite guests to enjoy wine and appetizers that naturally slow the pace of the day. This rhythm allows couples to relax, reconnect, and enjoy their time together without feeling rushed.
Beyond the property itself, the location makes it easy to explore downtown Galena on foot while still returning to a peaceful retreat each evening. From wine tastings at Galena Cellars to intimate dinners at local favorites, everything is close enough to enjoy without planning stress. When paired with a stay at our award-winning Galena Bed and Breakfast, it becomes the kind of couples getaway you’ll want to revisit year after year.
The Ultimate Getaway for Valentine’s Day in Ohio
Best Valentine’s Day Getaway for Couples in Ohio
A Valentine’s Day getaway is most meaningful when it allows couples to slow down and reconnect without distractions. Winter creates the perfect backdrop for this kind of escape, especially in the Hocking Hills, where dramatic landscapes and quiet forested surroundings naturally encourage unhurried time together. From snow-dusted trails to evenings by the fire, a romantic getaway here feels intentional and personal from the moment you arrive.
Days during a winter Valentine’s Day getaway in Hocking Hills unfold comfortably. Couples can explore all the top things to do in Hocking Hills, from walking scenic hiking paths, including our own private trail exclusive to our guests, admiring frozen waterfalls, or enjoying a peaceful drive through rolling hills before returning to the warmth of their cabin. Rather than packing every hour with plans, the experience is defined by balance. Leisurely breakfasts, quiet afternoons, and evenings spent soaking in a hot tub or watching the stars all become part of the shared rhythm that makes couples getaways feel restorative.
Romantic Cabins Designed for Couples
Choosing the right accommodations is what elevates a Valentine’s Day getaway from pleasant to memorable. Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn and Cottages, offers some of the most sought-after Hocking Hills cabins for couples. Each cabin is thoughtfully designed to feel secluded, surrounded by woodland views and peaceful natural beauty. Fireplaces, private outdoor spaces, and cozy interiors create an atmosphere that invites lingering mornings and relaxed evenings together.
Beyond the cabins, couples can enjoy private nature trails through the Camusfearna Gorge, available exclusively to guests. These trails offer the same scenic beauty as Hocking Hills State Park, but with far fewer interruptions, making them ideal for couples seeking a more intimate experience. For those who enjoy venturing out, nearby wineries and scenic overlooks provide additional options for exploring together.
Evenings at Glenlaurel often center on our Hocking Hills restaurant’s signature dining experience. A seasonal six-course prix fixe menu turns dinner into one of the highlights of a Valentine’s Day weekend getaway, with the option for private in-cabin dining for an even more personal evening by the fire.
For couples searching for places to go for Valentine’s Day, Hocking Hills offers something rare. It is romantic without feeling staged, relaxing without feeling idle, and genuinely focused on time together. Book your Valentine’s Day getaway and experience one of Ohio’s most rewarding couples retreats.
Things to Do in Mississippi for Couples
Best Things to Do in Mississippi for Couples in the South
For couples seeking meaningful, romantic ways to spend time together, Vicksburg is consistently one of the best destinations. Set along the Mississippi River, this historic city blends scenic views, preserved architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it ideal for couples. When considering things to do in Mississippi for couples, Vicksburg offers experiences that invite connection rather than crowds.
Many of the best places to visit in Mississippi are rooted in history, and Vicksburg delivers that beautifully. Walking through the Vicksburg National Military Park is both reflective and visually striking, especially during the early morning or near sunset. Downtown Vicksburg adds another layer, with locally owned boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants that turn an evening out into an effortless date night. Riverfront walks, seasonal festivals, and live music round out the experience, giving couples a variety of ways to enjoy their time together.
A Romantic Bed and Breakfast Stay in Vicksburg
A romantic getaway is defined as much by where you stay as what you do. A bed and breakfast in Vicksburg, MS offers couples a refined retreat after a day of exploring Mississippi landmarks. Historic details, inviting common spaces, and thoughtful modern comforts create an atmosphere that encourages relaxation. Amenities like a swimming pool and welcoming gathering areas allow couples to unwind fully.
Beyond the city, couples will find even more things to do in Mississippi within easy driving distance. The Natchez Trace Parkway offers a scenic route ideal for a leisurely road trip, while the Natchez Historic District provides grand homes, river views, and a charming downtown for a memorable day excursion. Nearby Port Gibson and the iconic Windsor Ruins add depth to any itinerary, especially for couples who enjoy history and photography.
Whether your plans include sightseeing, dining, or simply enjoying quiet moments together, Vicksburg remains one of the best romantic getaways in Mississippi. It’s a destination that allows couples to slow down, explore, and create memories that feel genuine and lasting.
Unique Places to Stay in Kentucky for Couples
Best Unique Places to Stay in Kentucky for Couples
When couples search for unique places to stay in Kentucky, certain key elements come to mind. They want character, privacy, and an experience, not just what a standard hotel can offer. Maple Hill Manor delivers exactly that. Set on a scenic Kentucky horse farm in the Bourbon Trail region, this historic antebellum mansion offers a refined Southern escape designed for connection and comfort.
Mornings begin with a gourmet breakfast prepared with fresh ingredients and classic Southern influence. Guests gather around the table, savor seasonal dishes, and plan their day exploring nearby places to visit in Kentucky. From scenic drives through bluegrass country to touring world-class bourbon distilleries, the surrounding region offers some of the most memorable things to do in Kentucky for couples.
The setting itself sets Maple Hill Manor apart from other anniversary getaways near Lexington, KY. Rolling pastures stretch beyond the mansion, horses graze quietly in the fields, and sunsets cast a warm glow across the farm. It is a setting that feels both intimate and expansive, ideal for milestone celebrations or spontaneous escapes.
Stay at a Kentucky Horse Farm Bed and Breakfast
Inside, each guest room blends historic charm with modern convenience. Thoughtfully selected furnishings, plush bedding, and views of the Kentucky horse farm create a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring. Couples can enhance their stay with curated add-ons such as a couples massage, a picnic on the grounds, or a beautifully arranged charcuterie delivered directly to their room.
Special events, including elegant afternoon teas and interactive murder mystery dinners, add even more distinction to your visit. For those dreaming of a small, romantic wedding or elopement, the estate provides a picturesque Southern backdrop and attentive coordination.
Among the most unique places to stay in Kentucky, Maple Hill Manor offers more than lodging. It offers an experience that blends history, hospitality, and heartfelt moments. Reserve your stay and discover why couples return year after year.
Unique Places to Stay in Wisconsin in Winter
Unique Places to Stay in Wisconsin in Winter
Winter is when Wisconsin feels most magical, and the most unique places to stay in Wisconsin in winter make the most of it with privacy, thoughtful design, and experiences made for two. If you are searching for truly unique places to stay in Wisconsin, Owl Ridge Cabin stands apart as a winter retreat that transforms a couple’s getaway into something memorable and personal.
Located just outside Wausau, this luxury cabin offers the rare balance of feeling completely removed while staying close to winter things to do in Wausau, including skiing, dining, and cultural experiences. Snow-covered woods surround the property, creating a setting that feels peaceful and immersive from the moment you arrive. Inside, modern architecture inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright blends seamlessly with warmth, texture, and comfort.
Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the winter landscape, turning snowfall into part of the experience. Mornings begin slowly with coffee and quiet, while evenings invite you to unwind by the fireplace or settle in for a movie night after a day exploring Rib Mountain State Park or Granite Peak Ski Area. The elevated king bed, plush linens, and spa-like bathroom ensure that rest is as indulgent as the surroundings.
A Luxury Cabin Designed for Winter Couples
What truly makes Owl Ridge Cabin one of the most unique places to stay in Wisconsin is how the experience extends beyond the space itself. Couples can elevate their winter stay with curated offerings like a candlelit four-course dinner prepared by a local chef or a private, on-site massage designed to help you fully relax and reconnect.
Romance packages allow you to personalize your getaway, whether you are celebrating an anniversary, planning a winter surprise, or simply craving time together away from daily routines. From champagne and roses to late checkout and thoughtful keepsakes, every detail is designed to enhance your stay.
Winter couples getaways are about slowing down, sharing meaningful moments, and enjoying an atmosphere that feels intentional. Our romantic cabin in Wiscosin delivers all of that and more, making it one of the best unique places to stay in Wisconsin for a winter escape you will want to repeat.