With 2020 being the year for homebodies, now is the perfect time to start planning a trip that involves timing down to the exact minute. Micro trips can be a Godsend when it comes to taking a weekend to lay low (or live it up, if that's more your style), check out a new place (or an old fave), and just kick back before heading into the office the following week.
With that being said, there are definitely some places that are more micro-trip friendly than others. Whether it's a drive, a short plane ride, or a long-weekend getaway, the destinations have all a traveler needs to feel as though they've escaped the stressful confines of daily life, if only for a little bit. Here are some trips to add to the itinerary if exploring and adventure are screaming your name.
12 Book An Airbnb And Take The Scenic Trip Up To Portland, Maine
New England was made for Airbnb. With so many small cottages, loft-style apartments, and cozy city condos to rent for a lot price, it's easy enough to find one for a short trip. Many of them also offer weekend deals and in Portland, many stores and restaurants are within walking distance to most overnight accommodations. Did we mention the lobster rolls alone are worth it?
11 Hit Up Boston For A City Weekend
Boston is slightly less overwhelming than New York City is and offers just as much history, if not more. Alternately, small towns such as Quincy (the home of the country's first Dunkin' Donuts!) are a cute way to break up a city-packed weekend or short trip. Furthermore, it's nearly impossible to not find a place to stay that fits most budgets.
10 Buffalo, New York Has Way More To Offer Than Niagra, Try Historic Elmwood Village
Upstate New York might not sound like a party but it definitely shouldn't be underestimated. For starters, it's a super affordable vacation and the historic parts of Buffalo provide Great Lake views, easy access to a Canada day trip, and some fun, hipster-esque shopping in the village. Not to mention, downtown is really poppin' when college is in session.
9 International Bonus: Montreal Is Closer Than You Think
Another perk of living in New England or close to it is how easily accessible Montreal is from the states. One early morning can mean spending the entire day in the Canadian city, which really requires a week or more in order to explore every inch of it - but for a short trip, you definitely won't get bored of these views, poutine, or overall kindness from Canadians.
8 Virginia Beach Provides Sunshine And Hipster Vibes
The drive to Virginia (from any direction) is scenic and lazy, especially if you're coming from the north. The Chesapeake Bay-Bridge Tunnel is practically a natural engineering wonder and just over it lies Virginia Beach, a pristine, safe, and hippie-style beach town, requiring nothing but walking and a keen eye to explore. Or, you could just spend the entire weekend on the beach.
7 Nashville Comes Ready To Dance The Weekend Away
And if music isn't your scene, then Nashville's down-home food will surely be a winner. This southern staple of a town offers history in spades, fun digs, and no end to the tours, sights, and vistas you can check out. It's become increasingly popular over the years and is just waiting to be explored!
6 New Orleans Is Always Open For Beignets And Jazzfest
New Orleans is another city you wouldn't expect to be able to explore entirely over one weekend, but a little research goes a long way. Whether shopping, spooky tours, general history, or jazz culture is your thing, NOLA has it all and will undoubtedly keep you entertained... Just make sure you find some time to sleep.
5 Michigan Is Surprisingly Beautiful For A Lakeside Weekend Getaway
For those in the Midwest who are seeking a bit more of a laid-back adventure, Michigan should not be passed up. Any state that borders a finger lake will likely serve as a serene getaway, but Michigan has a beauty like no other. With plenty of lakeside cottages and cabins, all you need is a cozy fire, some kayaks, and a big window to feel right at home.
4 Washington State Provides The Perfect Micro-Vacation For Nature-Lovers
Those seeking to be one with nature will find that Washington State has not been done justice through its pictures alone. In real life, this state is full of incredible sights that many can only dream of seeing, and you don't need to break a sweat in order to see it all. A short drive or quick hike is all you need to feel isolated from the rest of the world.
3 Oregon's Coast Is Home To Stunning Beaches And Chill Locales
For an even more chill short trip, Oregon's coast is perfect for getting away from it all for a while. The healing effects of walking along the beach, especially when the beaches in Oregon hold so much mystery and intrigue, should not be underestimated. It's easy to waste the night away staring up at thousands of stars with Pacific waves crashing in the background. Plus, Oregon is home to some pretty stellar food joints and adorable rentals.
2 Skip California And Fly Out To Honolulu For The Weekend Instead
Hawaii isn't as far as you think! Just as you can get to the Bahamas from Florida pretty quickly, those living on the west coast might not realize how easy it is to fly into Honolulu. We don't even need to brag about the stunning beauty of these beaches, but a long-weekend would be perfectly spent on any one of them.
1 International Bonus: Vancouver Is A Great Way To Get Out Of The US For A Few Days
If the nature of Washington state and the beaches of Oregon aren't necessarily your thing, consider going even further north for some Canadian adventures. Vancouver is a gorgeous city and its nightlife is intriguing and seemingly never-ending; not to mention, the US dollar goes further over there - so it's affordable and exciting.