You’d think that living in Florida meant that we were on a perpetual vacation. NOPE! In truth, it feels like I”m at the office all day, and because I sometimes sit and look outside at the pool, it feels like a big old tease to me. When Mr. S and I find someone to take care of the dog and just get away….just the two of us, it feels so special. Even after being married for 37 years, we need romantic getaways every now and again. Luckily, some of the most romantic weekend getaways are big cities in the US. Maybe it’s because we spent our honeymoon in New York City and not in one of those heart-shaped tubs in the Poconos that I prefer the hustle and bustle but….
I’ll Take Manhattan
You can spend a fabulous weekend in New York City and stay at the Marriott Marquis on Broadway, for example, which is right near the Theatre District; or you can book a weekend at the Plaza Hotel overlooking Central Park. Both hotels are in great locations. You may love to stay at the Mandarin Hotel and Spa where you can both be pampered for the weekend. I prefer a spot that’s a little less corporate called The Refinery on West 38th. It’s in a former refinery that is absolutely beautiful! No matter what your budget is; the city is more than accommodating.
Needless to say, Manhattan is considered one of the most romantic spots in the U.S. Whether you enjoy dinner in your hotel suite or dine at any one of the five star restaurants, the night is always young for lovers who seek solitude in a city that hosts millions of tourists each year. A carriage ride through Central Park is the essential romantic evening before enjoying an opera or symphonic performance at Lincoln Center. Sometimes we’ll pick up discount tickets to a Broadway show at the TKTS booth in the morning and enjoy what the theater has to offer that night. Of course, a walk along Fifth Avenue during the evening hours (or during the day if you’re in a shopping mood); is always fun. Yes, the city offers something for everyone.
San Francisco
With its rolling hills, fantastic cuisine, and friendly people; San Francisco offers hotel stays that are sure to enhance your romantic side. Among the most notable hotels are the classic Fairmont hotel, located in the Nob Hill area; the Loews Regency (formerly the Mandarin Oriental), which is known for its best views of the Bay and the city; or the downtown W San Francisco hotel that is close to cable cars, shopping, restaurants, and theatres.
Stroll along Fisherman’s Wharf and stop by Ghirardelli Square where you can pick up some of their famous chocolate before having dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants there such as McCormick and Kuleto’s, where the panoramic view of the Bay, as well as Alcatraz island; both of which are a stunning backdrop. You may leave your heart here after departing this great city by the Bay.
Las Vegas
Time will stand still at this resort destination. With a myriad of hotels to choose from you can enjoy your time here without having to worry about time, because there are no clocks in the casinos. Personally, I love the shows, the food, and the great art that City Center has to offer.
With great weather year round (hot, but always dry), you can wile away the early morning hours at the hotel’s pool (for some real romance, book a cabana and bottle service) and enjoy the evening attending a fabulous show or visit lady luck at the casino. There always seems to be a new restaurant run by the hottest celebrity chef opening, so make sure to check some of the hottest ones out.
Whether you take a stay at Mr. S’ favorite – the Venetian Hotel and enjoy a romantic ride on a gondola; enjoy the Spa and Salon at the Hotel Bellagio; or marvel at the lush indoor gardens, aquarium, and the Secret Garden at the Mirage; Las Vegas is both affordable for any budget and is the perfect weekend romantic getaway.
Lake Placid
While my other choices are big cities, there are times when you want to get far away from the maddening crowd. Head to Lake Placid and you will find comfort and romance at the Mirror Lake Inn. With gorgeous mountain and lake views, a fireplace, and very large tubs, you will find the accommodations more than satisfactory. In fact, they are quite conducive to a romantic weekend.
Among the many things you might like to do is to take a walk to the neighboring town of Lake Placid, only two miles away from the Inn. Here you will find shops along Main Street and you can stop at the Cottage for lunch. Swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are some of the activities available at Mirror Lake Inn.
If cities are not your thing, the calm and quiet ambiance of this Inn may just be your perfect weekend getaway destination.
