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Any other fellow brides out there trying to make their honeymoon work during a global pandemic? Can we please start a support group with margaritas and Hostess cupcakes?? I’m only slightly joking.
For the past six months, I’ve had a countdown on my phone ticking off the days until Sam and I left for our honeymoon in the Canary Islands. Unfortunately due to the current circumstances (I’m looking at you COVID-19) it’s looking like that trip is going to be delayed. As a medical professional, I’m totally cool with it. As a bride-to-be I’m throwing myself a pity party. Complete with clowns, balloons, the works.
The only thing making me feel better is that I’m hoping some travel destinations in the United States will be possible. I have been pretty much stalking Sky Scanner every week gathering ideas. The US has some pretty awesome places to honeymoon. And while I’m still sad that we might not get to check out Fuerteventura in the near, near future, I know we will be able to have a great time somewhere a little closer to home.
We still haven’t picked out a replacement honeymoon yet. I think think a part of me is still holding on to a bit of hope that things will all work out. That being said, I still have come up with a pretty sweet list *pats self on back* of what I would consider the perfect places to honeymoon in the continental United States.
Burlington, Vermont
Tucked away in the Northeastern part of the country, Vermont is sometimes an overlooked travel destination. My sister and brother-in-law live in Vermont, so I’ve been lucky to visit many times. There’s a surprising amount of things to do in Burlington and the surrounding areas making it a great honeymoon destination.
Burlington (and Vermont in general!) a dream for any outdoor lover. Check out the plethora of ski resorts in the area if you’re there for a winter trip or hike up Mount Philo in the summer (check out the view below!)
Not into the outdoors? No problem. Take a tour of the Ben and Jerry’s factory or the Vermont Teddy Bear Company. Grab a refreshing drink at Citizen Cider. Check out the shops and restaurants on Church Street. The possibilities are endless.
How to get there: Burlington International Airport (BTV); Montreal- Trudeau International Airport (YUL), 103 miles away
Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio
Located south of Columbus, Hocking Hills State Park is a nature lovers paradise. Filled with trails that take you into caves, past waterfalls and up to scenic overlooks, the park is truly stunning. I liked that the hiking trails ranged from easy to challenging giving us lots of variety to choose from.
Since I’m from Ohio, I might be a little biased about Hocking Hills. Sam and I had a great weekend there last summer, and I definitely want to make the trip back this year. We stayed in a cabin that had every amenity that you could possibly think of- including a hot tub on the back deck! If you want to be more immersed in nature there are plenty of traditional camping areas too. Hocking Hills would make a fantastic honeymoon location for any couple who loves the outdoors. Lucy gave it the stamp of approval, so you know it’s good!
How to get there: John Glenn Columbus International Airport (CMH), 62 miles away
Jackson, Wyoming
So if you’ve read my posts about Yellowstone National Park or Teton Village, Wyoming, you know I love the whole area of Jackson Hole. Just like Burlington, there are tons of areas for skiing and hiking, depending on what time of year you’re there. If you’re up for it, I would also highly suggest checking out a white water rafting tour. I was actually really nervous about rafting but it ended up being really fun and a highlight of the trip!
If outdoor sports aren’t your thing, Jackson Hole is full of other fun things to do. Sam and I spent an entire day wandering around town checking out the shops, restaurants and bars. We happened to be there on Saturday so we were able to hit up the Farmer’s Market on Town Square and grab some delicious local snacks. Jackson Hole is also a prime location for visiting the local national parks. Grand Teton National Park is a quick 25 minute drive away and the South entrance of Yellowstone is only about an hour and a half away.
How to get there: Jackson Hole Airport (JAC); Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), 283 miles away
Austin, Texas
Austin is pretty high up on the list of our potential honeymoon spots. Sam has never been to Austin and I’m excited to take him there because I know it’s right up his alley! If you’ve read my Quick Guide to Austin, Texas, you know that Austin is the perfect combo of southern charm and quirkiness.
One plus about Austin is that you’ll never run out of things to do. Austin has been called the Live Music Capital of the World and it’s true! On any given night you can have your pick from tons of live music venues- for free! One of my favorite things to do in Austin is relax on a patio with an ice cold drink listening to live music.
If music isn’t your thing have no fear. There are tons of other activities including art, shopping and bat watching (seriously!). Check out some activities here. If you want to take a break from the city life maybe check out Lake Travis for the day. Feeling a longer adventure? San Antonio is just over an hour away by car!
How to get there: Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)
Key Largo
When most people think of the Florida Keys, Key West immediately comes to mind. I’ll admit, that’s the first thing that popped into my mind, too. Then I found out about Key Largo. What I like about Key Largo is that it’s only an hour drive from Miami (it’s over 3 hours to Key West!) making it both easy and affordable to get to.
Despite being easy to get to, Key Largo is just as beautiful as any of the Keys. If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation with water as clear as the Caribbean, look no further. Any beach lover would gladly spend the day relaxing by the water. If you’re more of an adventure seeker than a sun goddess, check out a snorkeling trip– some of the best snorkeling in the Keys is off the coast of Key Largo!
How to get there: Miami International Airport (MIA), 55 miles away
Asheville, North Carolina
If Hocking Hills caught your interest but you’re looking for somewhere a little more populated, say hello to Asheville. You can easily get the cozy, woodsy vibe by booking a luxury cabin on the outskirts of town while still having access to everything Asheville has to offer.
If you’re a craft beer or cider fan you’re going to love Asheville. There are tons of breweries and bars all within an easy walking distance. There are several brewery walking tours available as well. Art lovers will also love checking out the many galleries in the area.
And the biggest attraction in Asheville? Biltmore Estates. I could easily spend days at Biltmore. Biltmore is America’s largest home, built by George Vanderbilt in 1895. You can tour the massive home, which has been preserved and filled with original furnishings. The estate is situated on 8,000 acres and now offers restaurants, shopping and a winery. Talk about romantic!
How to get there: Asheville Regional Airport (AVL); Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT), 119 miles away
Charleston, South Carolina
Does it get any more romantic than Charleston? No, I don’t think it does. The giant oaks with the Spanish moss on the lawns of beautiful mansions- I’m making myself wish I was there right now!
Charleston is great for any history buff. Take a stroll along the water of the Battery and you will have a view of Fort Sumter, the location of the start of the Civil War. To see some of the other historical areas of Charleston, I suggest you take a carriage tour of the city. Not only is it romantic but you will get so much information on the buildings you’re seeing. The carriage tour guides are ridiculously knowledgeable which makes for an amazing experience.
History not your thing? No problem. There are so many other activities that Charleston has to offer. Looking for a thrill? Check out a walking ghost tour. My mom and I had a super creepy encounter the last time we were in Charleston so I think a tour would be worth your while. If ghosts aren’t your jam, check out the Historic Charleston City Market on Meeting Street for local crafts, art and delicious food.
How to get there: Charleston International Airport (CHS)
Was looking how beautiful Hocking Hills State Park, Ohio was! What was the place you guys stayed with the hot tub was hoping to have a woodsy scenery!Thanks so much for posting all these incredible places!
Hi! We stayed at the Shawnee #5 cabin from Getaway Cabins. Their website is: https://www.getawaycabins.com/pet-friendly-hocking-hills-cabins.htm
We chose them specifically because they were dog friendly and were in close proximity to many of the trails. We just did the basic package but there were also so many fun add ons such as in room massages and professionally cooked dinners. All very romantic! I would highly recommend!