Tag: couple

• Why We Love It: outdoor activities, Western vibes
• Things to Do: skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, ice skating, walk around Lake Tahoe, Western-style main street
• Where to Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Tahoe-Truckee (from $175/night); Best Western Plus Truckee-Tahoe (from $164/night); Adventure Cabin 72 (from $122/night, sleeps 4)

It’s just a three-hour drive from the urban sprawl of San Francisco, but picturesque mountain town Truckee is a million miles away in terms of unspoiled beauty, since it’s home base to explore Lake Tahoe. Associate Commerce Editor Marissa Wu gives the place raves. “Lake Tahoe in the wintertime? Sign me up,” she says. “For several years this was my family’s winter destination and I think it’s a real gem all year round. Truckee is located a little northwest of the lake, but it’s easy to access so many good winter activities (you need chains on your tires, though!). But the real joy is renting a cabin and cozying up by the fire with a book (and perhaps a special someone) while the snow is falling outside. Some of my favorite memories are waking up in the wee hours to see big, fat flakes cascading to the ground. A real winter wonderland!” Fill your days with hiking, snowshoeing, skiing and snowboarding or go for a nostalgic twirl with your partner on the Northstar Village Ice Skating Rink. As the sun starts to go down, the twinkly lights illuminate the western-style main drag that’s full of shops and restaurants for a casual date night.

• Why We Love It: warm weather, nightlife, art, beaches 
• Things to Do: Key West Garden Club, historic seaport, tiki boat tours, Hemingway House
• Where to Stay: Westwinds Inn (from $275/night); Blue Marlin Motel (from $218/night); Duck Key Villa (from $299/night, sleeps 6)

“Key West is perfect when you’ve reached the merry point where you’re like ‘let it snow…anywhere but here,’ says PureWow VP of Editorial Content Candace Davison. “It’s usually in the high 60s in January there, so you can go kayaking or paddleboarding and enjoy sunset views at an alfresco restaurant (Nine One Five‘s balcony and Blue Heaven’s outdoor space are awesome). Split a slice of key lime pie at Blue Heaven—its mile-high meringue is unreal—and grab a cocktail at the quirky-cool spot famous for Bill Murray sightings, General Horseplay. Oh, and if you really want to relax, book a massage on the beach at the Southernmost Beach Resort overlooking the water.” Those who self-identify as snowbirds (and really any couple keen to escape the cold) should fly down to Key West for a sun-splashed, stress-free weekend of enviable weather, daiquiris, beach strolls, candy-colored sunsets and bar hopping in Florida’s southernmost point. Don’t stay out too late because you’ll need to rise early for a snorkeling excursion to North America’s only living coral barrier reef. The Hemingway House is also a must, as well as a stroll down the historic seaport and a trip to the Key West Garden Club.

• Why We Love It: history, food, cocktail scene, hotels, Southern charm
• Things to Do: Rainbow Row, Joe Riley Waterfront, Charleston City Market
• Where to Stay: Hotel Mount Pleasant (from $121/night); Mills House (from $340/night); The Palmetto House (from $311/night, sleeps 4)

Give Charleston three days, she’ll give you five pounds. That’s what I like to say, anyway, because the delicious food and endless cocktail hour of this sexy-slow Southern city is irresistible. My fiancé and I would work up an appetite exploring the sights—historic plantation tours, the new International African American Musum—before treating ourselves to oysters at The Ordinary or a dinner of pimento cheese and shrimp and grits at the sprawling waterfront joint known as Bowen’s Island. And I haven’t even mentioned the beaches dotted along the shore! You could easily make the case for Charleston being the most romantic city in the South due to its fancy woodframe buildings downtown, swishing palm trees and gentle climate. Don a light jacket for strolls along The Battery and the Joe Riley Waterfront, savor Low Country cuisine at the myriad award-winning restaurants and take couple-y pics in front of Rainbow Row.

• Why We Love It: winter sports, aprés-ski scene, scenery 
• Things to Do: skiing, Vail Brewing Company, Booth Falls Road
• Where to Stay: Austria Haus Hotel (from $274/night); Grand Hyatt Vail (from $269/night); Gore Creek Condo (from $175/night, sleeps 6)

“Vail is first and foremost a fabulous skiing getaway, but even if you’re not looking to hit the slopes from sun up to sun down there is so much to do. The village is insanely cute with so much good food, and there’s a shuttle bus that goes from one end to the other to make it easy to scoot home after a delicious meal and drinks if you’d rather not walk,” says PureWow Senior Editor Abby Hepworth. “I highly recommend Fall Line Kitchen and Cocktails. For day, there are tons of fun activities you can do—scenic gondola rides, snowshoeing, sleigh rides, ice bumper cars, snowmobiling, even dog sledding. Or simply cuddle up at a cafe, in the hot tub or by one of numerous stunning fireplaces and enjoy the views with a hot toddy and your hot date.” It’s no secret that Vail is in one of the most charming towns in Colorado. The perfect spot to settle in after hitting the slopes? Austria Haus Hotel, a romantic retreat with Swiss-chalet aesthetics in the middle of Vail Village. But before you settle in for the evening, grab a pint at Vail Brewing Company.

• Why We Love It: cold-weather outdoor activities, food, hotels
• Things to Do: architecture tours, Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago
• Where to Stay: Thompson Chicago (from $158/night); Glassy Downtown Oasis (from $173/night, sleeps 5), Wicker Park Art Apartment (from $99/night, sleeps 5)

If you live anywhere in the Midwest, chances are you’re only a direct flight (or, maybe, even a reasonable drive) away from Chicago. “As a Chicagoan, I’m getting excited just writing this. Chicago is magic in the winter! Caveat: layer up and bring extra gloves,” says PureWow Executive Editor Dara Katz. “Lake effect aside, I can think of so many ways to do a romantic Chicago winter getaway off the top of my head. Go the classic route and stay downtown, skate on State Street, get martinis at The Drake and shop up and down Michigan Avenue before wandering the Art Institute. See what the buzz is about in the West Loop, hit up an event at Soho House and nab rezzies at Monteverde or Avec.” Katz gives the town’s culinary choices top marks: “Foodie couples can fly around town hitting up as many high-brow/low-brow bang-bangs as their stomachs can handle—think the coveted tasting menu at Alinea followed by a late-night nosh at Wiener Circle. Or stay cozy and cool (vibes-wise, that is) with cocktails in Uptown at the city’s famous jazz club, The Green Mill. That’s just the tip of the iceberg (and yes, it will feel like you’re on an iceberg, but that’s what cuddling’s for.)” Overall, the abundance of incredible things to do indoors—from visiting world-class museums and soaking in skyline views to cozying up in cocktails bars and splitting a deep-dish pizza with your person—along with seasonal attractions such as Christmas markets make it an enticing urban escape.

• Why We Love It: winter sports, western vibes, nature, wildlife
• Things to Do: Jackson town square, skiing, Grand Teton National Park
• Where to Stay: Spring Creek Ranch (from $249/night); The Virginian Lodge (from $169/night); Baitshop Cabin (from $277/night, sleeps 6)

“Jackson Hole! Heaven on earth, I swear,” says Associate SEO Editor Marissa Wu. “It’s at the foot of the Grand Tetons, which loom in the distance, surrounded by prairie. The town feels like it’s stuck in the 1800s—but in a charming way. Given its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, the yee-haw vibes are unsurprising and fun. It was a great base for exploring Yellowstone, but I think the truly underrated park is the Grand Tetons. There are hiking trails for all levels and tell me the scenery isn’t romantic—I DARE you.” While Jackson Hole entices any time of year, I’ll admit that Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park are both somehow even more breathtaking blanketed in snow. Love skiing and snowboarding? The area boasts three winter resorts: Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Snow King Mountain Resort and Grand Targhee Resort. Downtown has adorable shops, Western-inspired bars and wonderful restaurants. Be sure to snap a photo with your darling in front of the famous antler arches to keep as a memento.

• Why We Love It: sunshine, Hollywood glamor, design, leisure
• Things to Do: aerial tramway, Palm Springs Art Museum, Joshua Tree, visitors center, Palm Springs Air Museum
• Where to Stay: Margaritaville Resort (from $160/night); The Saguaro (from $95/night); Joshua Tree Home with Hot Tub (from $346; $291/night, sleeps 2)

A *literal* oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert and the retreat of choice for A-listers dating back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, Palm Springs still tops the list of weekend getaways for romance and relaxation. “Palm Springs is the perfect destination for couples who don’t want a true ‘winter’ getaway. You can expect warm weather during the day (low to mid 70s) and cooler weather at night (low 50s with a crisp desert breeze),” says Greta Heggeness, PureWow Senior Editor, News & Entertainment. “Downtown has everything you need for a romantic date night, including great happy hours (Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar is a must), cozy rooftop bars (ahem, High Bar at the Rowan) and live music while you dine under twinkly lights (Las Casuelas Terraza).” With championship golf courses, gorgeous mountain views, stylish hotels, hot springs and some of the world’s most swoon-worthy examples of mid-century modern architecture, it’s easy to see why everyone who visits Palm Springs falls in love with this sun-splashed idyll. The Palm Springs Art and Air Museums offer plenty to see. Start your trip with a cool slice of architectural history by heading to the visitor’s center, a space-age creation and former gas station. “Also, the aerial tram is the perfect activity for couples who crave a little adventure. At the peak, you can hike, dine (yes, there’s a restaurant—with a full bar!) and take in the stellar views. But don’t forget to bring warm clothes or a blanket to share because it can get quite chilly!” Heggeness says.

• Why We Love It: history, architecture, food, Southern charm
• Things to Do: Goose Feathers Cafe & Bakery, Forsyth Park, Owens-Thomas House, Telfair Academy
• Where to Stay: The Drayton Hotel (from $243/night); The Marshall House (from $151/night); Victorian Condo (from $191/night, sleeps 4)

An inimitable combination of charm and grace makes historic Savannah utterly irresistible, especially since it’s livened up with 17,000 art students attending Savannah College of Art and Design. I love walking the parklike little town squares in the historic district, which keep car traffic from getting too dense and keep the place maintaining a walkable feel. When the thermometer dips, so do the crowds. That makes it even more pleasant to meander hand in hand along the cobblestone streets, have a little picnic in Forsyth Park (mmm, bring root beer floats from family-owned Leopold’s Ice Cream), gawk at the antebellum architecture, do a spooky ghost tour and revel in the pleasure of a riverboat cruise. The hearty Southern fare and boozy drinks are surefire ways to warm up in between exploring.

• Why We Love It: art, culture, desert scenery
• Things to Do: Marfa Mystery Lights, contemporary art at Ballroom Marfa, Chinati Foundation, Marfa Book Company, Prada Marfa
• Where to Stay: Hotel Saint George (from $345/night); El Cosmico (from $126/night); Award-Winning Minimalist Home (from $159/night, sleeps 2)

If eye-catching art, Instagrammable sights and tumbleweed-dotted dreaminess are your love language, then we’d highly recommend journeying to Marfa. This hip 1.6-square-mile desert gem in west Texas may be tiny but it’s packed with massively creative energy and cool stuff to see, including the Marfa Mystery Lights and contemporary art installations at Ballroom Marfa and Chianti Foundation. You’ll also want to drop in at Marfa Book Company, which hosts talks, readings and performances. And if you leave without heading to Prada, did you even visit the town? The vast, arid landscape is nothing short of mesmerizing. And because winter isn’t as popular of a time to visit, you might even have the good fortune of capturing some cute couple’s shots sans other tourists. 

• Why We Love It: warm weather, beaches, nightlife
• Things to Do: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Bayside Marketplace, Pérez Art Museum Miami
• Where to Stay: The Palms Hotel & Spa (from $326/night); The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club (from $242/night); Seaview One-Bedroom Apartment (from $50/night, sleeps 4)

Want to escape the cold? Venture to Miami Beach for sunshine, great food, nightlife, Art Deco architecture and seaside canoodling with your partner. The average temp in January is 76 degrees, which means you can spend days basking in the golden rays. Snag tickets to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and spend a morning wandering the beautiful villa on Biscayne Bay. Then, pop by Bayside Marketplace, a two-story shopping extravaganza, before heading to Pérez Art Museum. What’s on tap for evenings? Dinner at a trendy restaurant, followed by sipping cocktails at a swanky lounge, going dancing or hitting a club. We’d suggest staying at The Savoy Hotel & Beach Club for the sexy, grown-up vibe.

• Why We Love It: restaurants, ice skating, museums, hotels
• Things to Do: ice skating in Central Park, festive decorations at the Rockefeller Center, see the Rockettes
• Where to Stay: The Marlton (from $478/night); Virgin Hotels (from $440/night); Kimpton Theta New York (from $401; $349/night, sleeps 2)

The city so nice they named it twice! Whereas many places slow down in the winter, the Big Apple continues to buzz in December, January and February. Whether you’re skating on The Rink at Rockefeller Center, ambling through the quaint streets of the West Village, snow-shoeing in Central Park, navigating the many masterpiece-filled rooms at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, catching a Broadway show or savoring a candlelit dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, New York comes up big in the romance department.

• Why We Love It: history, food, nightlife, hotels
• Things to Do: Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, French Quarter, New Orleans Museum of Art, Café du Monde
• Where to Stay: Cambria Hotel (from $87/night); Omni Royal Orleans Hotel (from $150/night); Eclectic Uptown Home (from $21/night, sleeps 4)

New Orleans has a party-centric reputation, and that’s definitely warranted. However, there’s more to the Big Easy than Mardi Gras and Bourbon Street. It’s a rich melting pot of music, cuisine and architecture that’s totally tempting in the winter when the temperature drops yet the offerings remain sizzling hot. If you’ve already done the whole dimly-lit dinner date night thing, why not shake up the after-dark escapades with a haunted bar crawl? (If nothing else, it’s a great excuse to hold your sweetie extra close.)

• Why We Love It: outdoor activities, desert scenery, spas, resorts
• Things to Do: kayak Lower Salt River, hike in Sonoran Desert, Cosanti Foundation, Scottsdale Rodeo Museum
• Where to Stay: Hotel Adeline (from $169/night); Senna House Hotel (from $180);  Old Town Scottsdale Home (from $102/night, sleeps 6)

Winter in Scottsdale is just wow. It won’t be scorching like the summertime (that’s actually a good thing because if you’ve ever visited in July that’s a one-and-done situation), but you will get to enjoy clear, sunny skies. The picture-perfect vacation weather feels particularly well suited for partaking in the myriad outdoor activities, ranging from hiking in the Sonoran Desert to golf. Don’t forget to add spa sessions (couples massage, anyone?) and trips to the nearby Desert Botanical Garden to your weekend itinerary. You can’t leave town without hitting the Cosanti Foundation or the Scottsdale Rodeo Museum, either.

• Why We Love It: winter sports, New-England charm
• Things to Do: Billings Farm and Museum, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park, Taftsville Covered Bridge
• Where to Stay: The Village Inn (from $270/night); Woodstock Inn & Resort (from $529); Barn Home (from $475/night, sleeps 6)

The Green Mountain State has so many dreamy winter destinations it’s almost impossible to pick just one. But we’ve got to give it up to Woodstock for being the perfect New England escape and the quintessential destination for a quiet weekend away without the kids. This small town attracts couples with its rolling hills, classic New England architecture and ample outdoor activities. Be sure to put the Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historic Park on your must-see list, plus all the covered bridges. Not to mention the delightful boutique shops, delicious farm-fresh dining as well as storied inns that blend heritage and homespun comforts. 

• Why We Love It: winter sports, aprés-ski scene, shopping
• Things to Do: Aspen Art Museum, skiing, snowboarding, Wheeler Opera House
• Where to Stay: The Gant (from $795/night); Limelight Hotel (from $476/night); Downtown Aspen Condo (from $320/night, sleeps 4)

Heaps of powder turn Aspen into one of the most magical places on the planet. Killer skiing and snowboarding are a given. But that’s only part of the appeal. Thanks to high-end shops, intimate restaurants for candlelight dinners, luxury resorts and cultural attractions such as the Aspen Art Museum, you can still have an incredibly romantic weekend without ever even putting on snow boots. You won’t regret splurging on a romantic room with luxury cowboy-inspired decor at Hotel Jerome, which gives you a taste of life in the 1800s (with modern comforts, of course). Be sure to also catch a performance at the Wheeler Opera House, designed by the same architect who did the hotel.  

• Why We Love It: New England charm, history, architecture
• Things to Do: Cliff Walk, Fort Adams State Park, The Breakers
• Where to Stay: Mill Street Inn (from $199/night); Wellington Resort (from $215/night); Gull’s Nest (from $164/night, sleeps 2)

While the masses may flock to Newport in the summer, this heritage-rich coastal enclave is pretty much guaranteed to reignite passion in the slower, frostier months. A blanket of glittering white snow covers the opulent Gilded Age mansions. There are tons of festive events and storefronts twinkle with lights. A chill in the air invites extra cuddles and sipping mulled cider overlooking the harbor. It’s also way easier to score coveted reservations at beloved restaurants like Clarke Cooke House and Giusto.

• Why We Love It: scenery, beaches, outdoor activities 
• Things to Do: whale watching on the Na Pali Coast, helicopter or plane tour, Waimea Canyon
• Where to Stay: The Royal Sonesta Resort (from $303/night); Kauai Inn (from $260/night); Bamboo House (from $895/night, sleeps 6)

Kauai (aka the “Garden Isle”) will steal your heart with its unspoiled beauty—pristine bays, secluded coves, lush rainforests and dramatic cliffs. A helicopter tour over the Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon is a must-do activity when in Hawaii and an experience that’s guaranteed to create bonding memories to last a lifetime. For active duos, there’s also mountain biking, volcano voyages, ATV tours and snorkeling. Of course, the fact that it’s bikini weather in the winter certainly doesn’t hurt either.

• Why We Love It: history, architecture, relaxation
• Things to Do: Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site, Horseshoe Mound Preserve, historic main street
• Where to Stay: Galena Inn (from $209/night); Country Inn & Suites (from $107/night); Miner’s Cottage (from $125/night, sleeps 4)

When the forecast calls for snow, it’s time to hightail it out of the city to a quaint town. The Midwest is great—albeit freezing—during the frosty season. We’re especially sweet on Galena, a former lead-mining town with all the makings of a very adult and amour-inducing weekend that’s only three hours from Chicago. It has preserved 19th-century buildings (like the Ulysses S. Grant Home), antique shops on the historic main street, peaceful nature trails and farm-to-table eateries.

• Why We Love It: scenery, outdoor activities, cozy cabins
• Things to Do: Sisters Movie House, shop downtown, skiing, Dee Wright Observatory
• Where to Stay: Best Western Ponderosa Lodge (from $159/night); FivePine Lodge (from $189/night); Sisters Cabin (from $171/night, sleeps 6)

The state of Oregon is blessed with tons of beautiful places and charming small towns. Situated near the second-largest wilderness area in the state, Sisters offers couples access to majestic peaks (ever heard of the Three Sisters?), alpine meadows, waterfalls, lava fields, glaciers, freshwater streams, sparkling lakes, forests and all sorts of outdoor adventure. In the winter, that means snowy hikes and skiing. Woodsy cabins with oversized soaking tubs, king beds and fireplaces bring the romance at FivePine Lodge & Spa.

• Why We Love It: skiing, hot springs, breweries
• Things to Do: Museum of the Rockies, American Computer & Robotics Museum, Ellen Theater, Bozeman Hot Springs
• Where to Stay: Sapphire Motel Midtown (from $89/night); Country Inn & Suites (from $119/night); Beall Street Bungalow (from $310/night, sleeps 4)

Top-notch skiing makes a compelling case for jetting off to Bozeman during the snowy season. But that’s not all! Winter also brings romantic sleigh rides and adrenaline-raising ice climbing. Lovebirds can unwind with a dip in the natural hot springs, sample stouts at local breweries and shop the artisan boutiques along Main Street. For a unique date night, head to the planetarium to stare up at the majesty of the cosmos at Montana State University’s Museum of the Rockies. 

• Why We Love It: outdoor activities, New England coziness, sweeping coastal views
• Things to Do: Camden Opera House, Penobscot Bay, High Street Historic District, Camden Snow Bowl
• Where to Stay: Elms of Camden (from $176/night); Lord Camden Inn (from $188/night); Camden Village Home (from $235/night, sleeps 8)

Dreaming of stealing away to one of the prettiest small towns in New England for the weekend? The moment you gaze upon Penobscot Bay, the glistening harbor and the well-preserved 19th-century homes covered in fresh flakes, it’ll become abundantly clear why Camden is so special. It’s obviously worth shouting out the seafood eateries, local wineries (apparently, Maine produces some pretty good vino?) and performances at Camden Opera House. We’d be remiss not to mention the cozy inns with hot tubs and fireplaces.

• Why We Love It: wine, vineyards, food, scenery
• Things to Do: Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley, Sonoma State Historic Park, Sonoma Overlook Trail
• Where to Stay: Fairmont Mission Inn & Spa (from $352/night); El Pueblo Inn (from $149/night); Wine Country Cottage (from $371/night, sleeps 4)

Wine, food and romance go together like, well, wine, food and romance. During shoulder season in Sonoma, the climate remains mild, yet hotel rates drop. And what’s sexier than having extra money in your pocket to spend on fresh-from-the-field farm and biodynamic vino from a local producer? The Reserve Experience at Hamel Family Wines marries a four-course meal with limited-production Cabernet Sauvignon and other terroir-driven sips. When you’re ready to take advantage of the good California weather, head outside to Sonoma State Historic Park or the Overlook trail. If less walking is more your speed, you can still count the Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley as an outdoor activity.

• Why We Love It: winter sports, snow, lakefront fun, mountains
• Things to Do: Cedar Street Bridge Public Market, Panida Theatre, Mickinnick Trail Head
• Where to Stay: Best Western Edgewater Resort (from $141; $114/night); Talus Rock Retreat (from $240/night); Lookout Tower (from $200/night, sleeps 2)

At first, Sandpoint may not seem like the most obvious pick for a red-hot winter getaway. But its sparkling Lake Pend Oreille, awe-inspiring mountains and 300 inches of snow say otherwise. While you’re there, take advantage of the array of outdoor activities (who’s up for cross-country skiing, ice fishing and snowmobiling?), grab a pint at MickDuff’s Brewing Company and see a concert at The Panida Theater. Picture you and your loved one snuggling under a blanket on the porch of this peaceful log cabin.

• Why We Love It: New-England charm
• Things to Do: skiing, Wyantenock State Forest, Cornwall Covered Bridge
• Where to Stay: Foxfire Hill Cottage (from $144/night, sleeps 2); Modern Forest Cabin (from $185/night, sleeps 4); The Brookside Barn (from $155/night, sleeps 3)

New England nostalgia is very much on display in Cornwall—and a dusting of snowflakes only makes this tiny town in Litchfield County even prettier. The slopes of Mohawk Mountain lure skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels from all over the East Coast. Rugged and remote, Wyantenock State Forest encompasses 4,000 acres. On a given afternoon in the winter, you probably won’t see another person (besides your partner, of course). The West Cornwall Covered Bridge is also must-see.

• Why We Love It: food, booze, Southern charm
• Things to Do: Bluegrass Parkway, Maker’s Mark Distillery, Dinner Train
• Where to Stay: Jailer’s Inn (from $160/night); Talbott Tavern and Inn (from $186/night); The Wagon Wheel Barndominium (from $165/night, sleeps 6)

Why visit Loretto? Beautiful views, country cooking and bourbon! Kick off your trip with a scenic drive along the Bluegrass Parkway. Take a tour of Maker’s Mark Distillery to learn how the famous spirit is made (the heavenly aromas are definitely an aphrodisiac), explore the limestone cellars and slog back a few tipples. The other can’t-miss attraction? The My Old Kentucky Dinner Train. There are several ride options, including teatime, bourbon, lunch, dinner, the North Pole Express and even a murder mystery excursion.

• Why We Love It: Bavarian vibes, German food, beer, outdoor activities
• Things to Do: Icicle Brewing Company, Enzian Inn alpenhorn performances, Nutcracker Museum, Leavenworth Cider House
• Where to Stay: Sleeping Lady Mountain Resort (from $362/night); Leavenworth Village Inn (from $399/night); Valley View Studio Apartment (from $157/night, sleeps 2)

A fairytale destination in every sense that’s only two hours from Seattle, Leavenworth is one of the best mountain towns in the United States and a frontrunner for romance. This Bavarian-style village in the Cascade Mountains brims with fresh alpine air, storybook architecture, beer halls (like Icicle Brewing Company) and all the schnitzel you can eat. Don’t miss the biggest pretzel of your life at Leavenworth Cider House and an alpenhorn performance at Enzian Inn. The charm level only rises when the flakes fall. Plus, there are awesome ski slopes. It really does tick all the boxes of an ideal winter vacation spot for couples.

• Why We Love It: antique shops, food, galleries, hotels, scenery
• Things to Do: Olana State Historic Site, Hudson Athens Lighthouse, Spotty Dog Books & Ale
• Where to Stay: Nest Hudson (from $154/night); The Wick (from $202/night); Modern A-Frame Cabin (from $311/night, sleeps 4)

Located just two hours from the Big Apple, Hudson has established itself as one of the most enchanting (and convenient) places for urbanites to escape city life for a few days. If indie shops, heritage-rich architecture and farm-to-table restaurants sound right up your alley, might we suggest stealing away to this charming country town for a winter weekend? The colder months also bring ample opportunities for fun outdoorsy activities like cross-country skiing and cozying up at the quaint hotels around town.

• Why We Love It: winter sports, shopping, Western vibes
• Things to Do: shopping on Main Street, hot air balloon rides, skiing and snowboarding
• Where to Stay: Best Western Plus Landmark Inn & Pancake House (from $139/night); Park Regency Resort (from $104/night); Old Town Home (from $248/night, sleeps 6)

Consistently ranked among the best mountain destinations in North America, Park City is a year-round playground for outdoor recreation. But this tourism darling shines even brighter in the winter with easy access to Park City Mountain and Deer Valley Resort. It’s no secret that the slopes are epic. Sundance Film Festival is another big seasonal draw card. You’ll also find fantastic food, many boutiques along Main Street and upscale hotels. For some high-altitude excitement your honey won’t soon forget, book a hot-air balloon ride.

• Why We Love It: arts, culture, leisure
• Things to Do: Commonweal Theatre Company, Root River Trail, Lanesboro Arts
• Where to Stay: High Court Loft (from $145/night, sleeps 4); The Hiding Place Cottage (from $120/night, sleeps 2); Pruett’s Paradise (from $80/night, sleeps 4)

Couples venturing to Lanesboro can expect arts, culture and a leisurely pace that seems tailor-made for reconnecting. The chilly weather in December, January and February encourages cozying up (body warmth is a real thing). There are vibrant galleries, studios and performances by roving thespians. The Commonweal Theatre Company stages a lineup of comedies, dramas and musicals. Hunker down at a rustic log cabin that’s located on the Root River Trail and only a few miles from downtown.

• Why We Love It: northern lights, outdoor activities, hot springs
• Things to Do: see the northern lights, Museum of the North, moose antler arch
• Where to Stay: Sophie Station Suites (from $179/night); Pike’s Waterfront Lodge (from $159/night); Aurora House (from $409/night, sleeps 8)

Admittedly, Fairbanks isn’t a feasible weekend getaway for most folks. That doesn’t mean it’s off the table for all couples. As if the chance to witness the northern lights wasn’t seductive enough, the mix of active and leisure pursuits really seals the deal. Try dog mushing, heat things up at the thermal springs or plan a trip to the Arctic Circle. We also love the idea of reserving a log cabin and glimpsing the aurora borealis from the comfort of your own deck.

• Why We Love It: good weather, good mix of rural and urban settings
• Things to Do: shopping in Old Town, hot air balloon rides, Sandia Peak Tramway
• Where to Stay: Baymont by Wyndham (from $102/night); DoubleTree by Hilton (from $144/night); Orchard Casita (from $200/night, sleeps 4)

Albuquerque may not be the first destination that comes to mind when it comes to romantic getaways, but trust us, this beautiful spot ticks all the boxes. It’s the perfect mixture of rural and metropolitan vibes—without the dreary isolation or overcrowding. Head over to Old Town for a day of limitless shopping and learning all about New Mexican culture, before ending the night with a delicious dinner for two courtesy of Farm and Table, a sophisticated, cozy restaurant serving fresh and locally grown food.