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Now that the holidays are over, travelers’ schedules may be limited. But that doesn’t stop us from scratching our incurable travel itch.
Maybe we should just sacrifice a weeklong trip and limit it to a fun weekend getaway. There’s nothing wrong with that this time of year, especially since the US has so many nice places to spend a few days.
We all know the iconic cities of the US, but there are some sunny, underrated gems that are easily accessible and just the right size for a weekend getaway in the dead of winter.
Tampa, Fla
If there’s one thing we can all agree on, we’re all looking for a sunny escape this time of year. While places like Miami and Orlando steal Florida’s thunder, there are underrated cities like Tampa that are perfect for a weekend getaway.
There’s no Disney World here, but an easy-to-explore town near some of Florida’s best beaches awaits.
Normally in the 70s in January, Tampa is perfect for packing shorts for a nice bike ride or beach day.
Nearby Anna Maria Island is a great tropical escape, along with the top-rated Clearwater and Siesta Keys.
Best of all, prices often drop in winter, so you can spend more on premium experiences and dining options, like the highly underrated Cuban food scene.
Scottsdale, Ariz
Phoenix may be a much larger city, but those looking for a desert escape may want to opt for the trendy neighboring city of Scottsdale.
Home to the scenic Camelback Mountains and countless shopping, dining and entertainment options, Scottsdale is worth a weekend getaway.
Arizona has sweltering summers. So much so that you can go on the free shuttle in Scottsdale just for the air conditioning.
Winter makes for a great time to enjoy a much milder climate and wander the streets of the Old Town or sit poolside at the many luxury hotels to choose from.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the surrounding countryside with numerous hiking trails or play a round of 18 holes.
Orange County, California
While Orange County isn’t technically a city in itself, it is made up of a cluster of smaller towns that are suitable for weekend getaways.
Instead of flying into San Diego or Los Angeles, Orange County has its own airport with many flights across the country.
Upon landing, travelers can choose between the high-end shopping of Newport Beach, the luxurious lifestyle of Laguna Beach, or activate their inner child for a day at Disneyland in Anaheim.
Ritzy hotels are scattered throughout Orange County, birthplace of some of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches.
San Antonio, Texas
Just an hour south of Austin lies a city with a very different personality, but great for an unforgettable weekend.
A city made for restaurant patios, San Antonio is one of the top foodie destinations in America, where travelers can enjoy a variety of Mexican dishes and sippin’ margaritas.
Home to an easily walkable downtown area with historic sites, luxury hotels, and the famous Riverwalk, travelers will have no problem staying busy and resting in comfort.
And of course you can’t miss the local Mexican markets.
Palm Springs, California
Come all, as an LGBTQ hotspot: Palm Springs is happy to have you. This quirky city has a storied past as a popular celebrity escape, but is best known for its nearby music festivals Joshua Tree National Park nowadays.
You can easily fill your weekend here with all kinds of fun, with opulent hotels, trendy restaurants and good vibes in abundance.
Palm Springs is usually a sunny haven in the winter, so don’t be fooled as you fly over snow-capped mountains.
South Padre Island, Texas
Normally a spring break destination, a winter vacation in South Padre is also fun. Although Texas is generally underrated when it comes to beaches, South Padre may be the best of them all.
Some may say Port Aransas, but South Padre has better winter weather and cheap beachfront resorts where you can enjoy picturesque beaches before the college crowds quickly take over.
Vacationers can fly into nearby Brownsville and hit the beach for a weekend of sunny days, lounging, dolphin rides or bar hopping with more room to move in the winter season.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
