Romance By Dayna Engberg

A Breath of Fresh Air

8 NORTH AMERICAN SPOTS FOR YOUR NEXT PERFECT GETAWAY

As the current global situation unfolds, we're looking forward to the day when we can travel freely once again. When that day arrives, couples in need of a romantic escape should look no further than North America. Whether you opt for a long weekend in a scenic new city or a simple change of scenery with a luxury staycation close to home, there are plenty of options to satisfy your travel craving. Read on to discover a few of our favorite North American destinations to kick your cabin fever and explore somewhere new.

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA

If there is one city that has mastered the balance between urban appeal and natural beauty, it's Vancouver. Featuring all the typical attractions of a big city - an award-winning aquarium, museums packed with fascinating exhibits in art, science and anthropology, top-notch sports arenas and a bustling downtown zone - it also boasts a range of opportunities to escape the crowds and enjoy the outdoors together. From Stanley Park (the third largest in North America) to the VanDusen Botanical Garden, English Bay and countless other hiking trails and natural areas, Vancouver was practically made for romantic walks in the park.



Vancouver skyline
Hiking along Capilano River

TORONTO, ONTARIO

Diverse cuisine, art, beaches, nightlife ... Toronto has a bit of everything, and if you prefer your city with a side of nature, you're in luck. Admire Lake Ontario from leafy waterfront bike paths, kayak or paddleboard around the Toronto Islands or pack a romantic picnic for tranquil parks like Edwards Gardens or High Park. Up for an excursion? Rent a car for a day trip to Niagara Falls, skipping the eight-lane QEW and opting for the more scenic highway 81 instead. Hop off the highway around St. Catherine's and you'll be treated to a leisurely route along rolling hillsides that run right through wine country.



Scarborough Bluffs Park in Toronto
Visiting a vineyard in Ontario

CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA

Charleston is the capital of southern charm, made evident by its horse-drawn carriages, cobblestone streets and an abundance of elegant plantation houses, home to some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the country. Tour some of Charleston's most famous plantations, such as at McLeod Plantation and Historic Site, Middleton Place or Magnolia Plantation, learning about their role in the fight for civil rights while taking in the grandiose antebellum architecture, fragrant, everblooming flowers and refined stable yards. Then, soak up the harbor views with a stroll along the waterfront, tee off on perfectly manicured golf courses or take a self-guided walking tour of the city's many historic sites.




Pineapple Fountain in Charleston Waterfront Park
Museum of Pop Culture with the Space Needle in the background

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

If you're craving fresh seafood, few west-coast cities can compare with Seattle. Whether you're into grilled salmon, oyster shooters, shellfish or sushi, you'll find it all at the lively Pike Place Market, a place just as entertaining as it is delicious. In this city, you can find art at every turn, from the elaborate sculptures at Chihuly Garden and Glass to the wavy exterior of the Museum of Pop Culture and the angular glass architecture of the Seattle Public Library.

MIAMI, FLORIDA

You don't have to go far to find a slice of paradise. At first glance, the bright turquoise waters and sugar sand of Miami Beach is nearly indistinguishable from some of those in the Caribbean. A closer look and Miami boasts its own unique blend of Puerto Rican and Cuban cultural influences, evident in its fusion cuisine, spicy nightlife scene and trendy art and fashion culture. Skip the museum and take a walk through the streets of Wynwood instead. This open-air street art gallery is a rotating display of more than 40 vibrant, oversized murals created by renowned artists from around the world. Not up for the walk? Head to Miami Beach, where days are just as well spent basking in the sun in a king-sized day bed for two, sipping on fruity cocktails and listening to the ocean.




Aerial view of Times Square at night
Gorgeous fall colors in Central Park

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

Bright lights and big city glamour never go out of style. If New York City is on your bucket list, there are endless combinations of ultra-luxurious hotels, five-star eateries and world-class entertainment to choose from. Build the perfect couples' vacation customized specifically to your tastes, whether that's seeing iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, browsing museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, or enjoying outdoor activities like strolling through Central Park.



Main Street in downtown Park City
Couple on a ski vacation

PARK CITY, UTAH

Park City, Utah might not be on your travel radar, which is one of the reasons it's the perfect place to go to avoid the crowds. This year-round destination offers hiking and mountain biking, zip lines, high ropes courses and even a bobsled run at the Utah Olympic Park, originally built for the 2002 Winter Games. In fact, winter sports are its primary draw. Since the merging of two ski areas, Park City Mountain Resort is now the largest ski and snowboarding area in the country, boasting more than 7,000 acres of skiable terrain encompassing over 300 trails and 40 lifts. Looking for more than just snow? Go in January and you can also catch the Sundance Film Festival in its hometown.



Live music in Nashville
Nashville hot chicken

NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE

If you're feeling starved for live music and - let's be honest - a strong cocktail, Nashville is the ideal place to find both. In Music City, you can truly find boot-stomping live music almost everywhere, with venues ranging from the behemoth Grand Ole Opry on down to the tiny neighborhood dive bar. You can even visit music-themed museums, like the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Johnny Cash Museum or RCA Studio B. Plus, Tennessee knows a thing or two about whiskey. Don't miss the chance to take a tour and tasting at a traditional Tennessee whiskey distillery, such as Nelson's Green Briar.

The following hotels provide a place for romance and relaxation as you discover the diversity of North America. Plus, you'll enjoy the bonus amenities available through [multisite.site_brand]SELECT Hotels & Resorts.