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8 Escapes for the two of you: 3-Day Weekend Getaways for the Nature Lover

By Tim

Escape life's busy day and day out with your special someone or take the whole family on a magical 3-day weekend getaway to recharge your batteries and reconnect with those you love. If you're a nature lover seeking a weekend getaway that offers breathtaking scenery, outdoor adventures, and quality time with family, look no further. Here are eight stunning 3-day trips that are easy driving trips from many major cities and perfect for a fall escape.

1. Napa Valley, California

  • Why visit: Napa Valley is renowned for its world-class wineries, beautiful vineyards, and charming towns. It's a perfect destination for wine lovers and those seeking a relaxing getaway.

  • Accommodations:

  • Luxury: Napa River Inn (average nightly rate: $300-$500)

  • Budget-friendly: Fairfield Inn & Suites Napa Riverfront (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Dining:

  • Gourmet: The French Laundry (average meal price: $300-$500 per person)

  • Casual: Oxbow Public Market (average meal price: $15-$30 per person)

  • Family-friendly: Gott's Roadside (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Take a hot air balloon ride over the vineyards, visit the Napa Valley Wine Train, or explore the Napa Valley Museum.

2. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada

  • Why visit: Lake Tahoe is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by majestic mountains. It offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and water sports.

  • Accommodations:

  • Luxury: Edgewood Tahoe (average nightly rate: $500-$1000)

  • Budget-friendly: Best Western Plus Tahoe Inn (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Dining:

  • Fresh seafood: Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel (average meal price: $20-$40 per person)

  • Casual: The Squeeze Inn (average meal price: $10-$15 per person)

  • Family-friendly: The American Legion Post 189 (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Take a boat tour of the lake, visit Emerald Bay State Park, or go skiing or snowboarding in the winter.

3. Sedona, Arizona

  • Why visit: Sedona is a picturesque town surrounded by red rock formations and stunning desert landscapes. It's a popular destination for hiking, yoga, and spiritual retreats.

  • Accommodations:

  • Luxury: Enchantment Resort (average nightly rate: $500-$1000)

  • Budget-friendly: Best Western Plus Sedona Inn (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Dining:

  • Southwestern cuisine: Oak Creek Tavern (average meal price: $20-$30 per person)

  • Casual: The Hub (average meal price: $10-$15 per person)

  • Family-friendly: The Original Pancake House (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Hike the Red Rock State Park, explore the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Village, or take a hot air balloon ride.

4. Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

  • Why visit: The Smoky Mountains are a national park known for its majestic mountains, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. It's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Accommodations:

  • Historic: Gatlinburg Inn (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Budget-friendly: Hampton Inn Gatlinburg (average nightly rate: $100-$150)

  • Dining:

  • Southern comfort food: The Pancake Pantry (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Casual: The Park Grill (average meal price: $10-$15 per person)

  • Family-friendly: The Applewood Farmhouse (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Hike the Appalachian Trail, visit Dollywood theme park, or explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

5. Savannah, Georgia

  • Why visit: Savannah is a historic coastal city known for its beautiful architecture, charming squares, and friendly atmosphere.

  • Accommodations:

  • Luxury: Mansion on Forsyth Park (average nightly rate: $300-$500)

  • Budget-friendly: Hampton Inn & Suites Savannah Historic District (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Dining:

  • Seafood: The Olde Pink House (average meal price: $20-$40 per person)

  • Casual: The Bohemian Bistro (average meal price: $15-$25 per person)

  • Family-friendly: The Pirate's House (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, visit the Savannah Historic District, or explore Tybee Island.

6. Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

  • Why visit: Yellowstone National Park is a world-renowned national park known for its geysers, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. It's a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

  • Accommodations:

  • Historic: Old Faithful Inn (average nightly rate: $200-$400)

  • Budget-friendly: Yellowstone National Park Lodges (average nightly rate: $100-$200)

  • Dining:

  • American cuisine: Old Faithful Inn Dining Room (average meal price: $20-$30 per person)

  • Casual: Roosevelt Lodge Dining Room (average meal price: $15-$25 per person)

  • Family-friendly: Grizzly Grill (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: See Old Faithful erupt, go wildlife watching, or take a guided tour of the park.

7. Portland, Maine

  • Why visit: Portland is a charming coastal city with a vibrant food scene, beautiful lighthouses, and stunning beaches.

  • Accommodations:

  • Luxury: Portland Harbor Hotel (average nightly rate: $250-$400)

  • Budget-friendly: Hampton Inn & Suites Portland/Downtown Waterfront (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Dining:

  • Seafood: Eventide Oyster Co. (average meal price: $20-$30 per person)

  • Casual: The Holy Donut (average meal price: $5-$10 per person)

  • Family-friendly: Becky's Diner (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Visit the Portland Head Light, take a boat tour to the Casco Bay Islands, or explore the Portland Museum of Art.

8. New Orleans, Louisiana

  • Why visit: New Orleans is a vibrant city with a rich history, delicious food, and lively music scene.

  • Accommodations:

  • Luxury: Windsor Court Hotel (average nightly rate: $300-$500)

  • Budget-friendly: Hampton Inn & Suites New Orleans Convention Center (average nightly rate: $150-$250)

  • Dining:

  • Creole cuisine: Commander's Palace (average meal price: $20-$40 per person)

  • Casual: Café du Monde (average meal price: $5-$10 per person)

  • Family-friendly: The Gumbo Shop (average meal price: $10-$20 per person)

  • Unique family activities: Visit Jackson Square, take a swamp tour, or explore the French Quarter.

These eight destinations offer a variety of experiences for nature lovers, from hiking and wildlife watching to wine tasting and cultural exploration. With a little planning, you can create a memorable 3-day getaway that will leave you refreshed and rejuvenated. So, pack your bags, grab your family, and embark on a fall adventure to one of these stunning destinations.

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