Vacations are meant to be relaxing, right? But when you’re chasing down small children or running around to tons of “must see” attractions, trips can turn into giant stress-fests.
It’s important to take a moment, or a few amazing days, away from the stress of the every day. Which is why girls’ (or guys’) weekends are perfect!
Seek Sanity on an Epic Girls’ Getaway Weekend Adventure!
We’ve scoured the country to find cool getaway destinations, near military duty stations, that pack lots of relaxation, fun and adventure into just a few days. Get ready for an epic girls’ weekend getaway that will restore your sanity!
You can find a relaxing place to lay your head when you join the Military Shoppers Travel & Rewards Club! We found all these hotels using a sample search for two adults in late June.
Santa Barbara, CA
Located north of LA (and within driving distance from major military hub San Diego), Santa Barbara is the epitome of classy California beach town. It’s a cool mix of eclectic artsy charm and dressed up elegance.
Getting There:
- By Car: located conveniently along the California coast, take the 5/101 from location south or just the 101 from locations north.
- By Train: take the Pacific Surfliner from LA and points south or the Coast Starlight from LA to Seattle; both routes hug the coast and are operated by Amtrak. There’s even a stop right in downtown Santa Barbara!
- By Plane: fly into Santa Barbara Municipal Airport (SBA), just 8 miles away from downtown. You’ll need to connect through one of the major US hubs, like San Diego or LAX.
Where To Stay:
- Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront: just steps from the beach, you’ll love this recently renovated hotel for a relaxing weekend getaway!
- Kimpton Canary Santa Barbara: this city-center luxury hotel combines California casual with old world charm.
- La Quinta by Wyndham Santa Barbara: a laid back budget-friendly hotel, steps from all the major attractions.
These three hotels are just some of the many hotels, motels, B&Bs and inns available in Santa Barbara and the surrounding region. Many feature pools, spas and other luxury amenities.
What To Do:
- Go Wine Tasting: there are many boutique tasting rooms scattered throughout downtown Santa Barbara, many within walking distance from each other. Or hop on a chauffeured tasting tour beyond the city.
- Stroll through Culture: whether you’re enjoying the art museums or soaking up the history of the mission, Santa Barbara is full of incredible experiences, exhibits and locations brimming with adventure!
- Spa the Day Away: spend some quality quiet time at a luxury spa in Santa Barbara! From salt treatments to mud baths, you’re sure to find something that will complete relax you.
- Beach Day: set up camp on the beach for the day! Head directly to the Santa Barbara beaches or find a hidden spot farther along the coastline.
Charlottesville, VA
In the cradle of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is a mecca for history buffs, scholars and adventurers!
Getting There:
- By Car: Rts 64 and 29 meet in Charlottesville! And it’s just a 2 hours drive west from DC.
- By Train: hop an Amtrak train for a direct connection through DC or NYC.
- By Plane: fly into Dulles or Reagan, then head west via car, bus or train
- By Bus: there are many bus routes that connect through DC and NYC with direct routes to Charlottesville.
Where To Stay:
- Holiday Inn Charlottesville Monticello: these comfy rooms feature a mini-fridge and a small kitchen-like area, which makes this a great base camp for your adventures!
- Omni Charlottesville: stay in luxury just steps from the center of the action, with two pools and a spa!
- Dinsmore House: experience a unique B&B in midtown, with beautiful rooms and stunning grounds.
There are tons of great places to stay in and around Charlottesville, including AirBnBs and quaint inns!
What To Do:
- Presidential Homes: visit Monticello, Montpelier and Highlands – homes of Jefferson, Madison and Monroe respectively – are close by to Charlottesville!
- Take a Hike: hit the rocky trails through Shenandoah National Park to be awed by the beauty of the mountains and valleys of Virginia.
- Quaff Local Beverages: Charlottesville is a hub for wineries, breweries and cideries (aka place that make hard cider). Take a tour with a DD or pick 1-2 places to picnic and enjoy the whole day!
New Orleans, LA
Are you ready to party? Then NOLA is the spot for your group! There’s always live music, a hopping club and yummy food in the pretty streets of the French Quarter.
Getting There:
- By Car: drive through the highways and byways of the US from your current location! Many places in the southeastern US are just a few hours from NOLA.
- By Train: grab an Amtrak from most major cities and transportation hubs to New Orleans.
- By Plane: fly into Louis Armstrong Airport (MSY)
Where To Stay:
- Intercontinental New Orleans: this classically modern hotel brings lots of jazzy notes with a major dose of Southern charm and a rooftop pool!
- DoubleTree by Hilton French Quarter: just steps from the heart of the French Quarter action, this pet friendly hotel is also close to yummy spots to grab a bit or a beverage.
- The Cornstalk Hotel: indulge your luxurious side in a classic New Orleans home, updated with all the modern amenities and maybe a ghost or two in the bargain!
There are so many cute, quaint and effortlessly charming hotels in and around historic New Orleans!
What To Do:
- All That Jazz: you’re in the heart of jazz, so head out for a night of music at a club or on most street corners, too.
- Ghost Hunt: you can’t skip a ghost tour in the most haunted city in the US!
- Grab a Drink: New Orleans is the home of many classic cocktails, from the hurricane to the Sazerac. Grab dinner, and a few of these locally-created drinks, with your friends.
Newport, RI
Gilded age mansions, fresh seafood and incredible uppercrust luxury are just the ticket for a fun girls’ weekend in Rhode Island!
Getting There:
- By Car: Newport is an island, and off the beaten traffic corridors on 195, 95, and 395. Take Rt 24 to the island and follow the signs.
- By Train: hop off Amtrak in Providence or Kingston, RI, then take a cab or limo to Newport.
- By Plane: land in Providence at TF Green (PVD) – about 30 minutes away – or Boston’s Logan Airport (BOS) – about 60 minutes away.
Where To Stay:
- Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina: stay right on the Brickwalk shopping area and the working waterfront in a Newport classic known for elegance and service.
- Pelham Court Hotel: slip inside a historic home in the heart of Newport that offers multi-bedroom suites with luxurious details.
- Hotel Viking: escape to the spa or just relax in your plush guest room, with a basket featuring gourmet treats!
Splash out on a high end luxury hotel or stay farther away from the heart of Newport at a more modestly priced (but still elegant) hotel.
What To Do:
- Step Back in Time: Newport mansions are synonymous with Gilded Age elegance. Visit one, or all, of the beautifully preserved homes of the Astors, Vanderbilts or Belmonts.
- Walk the Cliffs: stroll just below the beautiful mansions along the edge of rocky cliffs, with the crashing waves directly below the path. It’s a beautiful 3.5 mile walk or run – if you’re daring!
- Gourmet Indulgences: with the incredible coastal location, Newport is the place to go for insanely fresh seafood. Try the famous chowder at 22 Bowen or grab clam cakes at Flo’s.
