5 Cities That Make for the Perfect Weekend Getaway
New York City:
Getting there: With three airports to choose from, daily Amtrak service and a slew of low-cost bus carriers, New York City is one of the most convenient places to travel to, no matter the distance.
Where to stay: If you are a first time visitor with Broadway on your to-do list, then consider staying in what some may say is "the heart of the world" -- Times Square. Located just two blocks from the bright lights, Hotel Mela (a member-favorite) wins praise for its location but also for serving as a peaceful escape from the bustle.
What to do: If you don't consider eating to be a leisure activity, think again. New York City is home to more than 20,000 restaurants, which can overwhelm even seasoned foodies. Start with the staples and be prepared to wait (trust me, it's worth it): a bagel and lox at Russ & Daughters, a slice at Joe's Pizza and a pastrami sandwich at Katz's Deli. For dinner, visit the Gander with our deal for $59, including appetizers and entrees for two. The Michelin-recommended restaurant helmed by "Iron Chef" winner Jesse Schenker has one of the best new steaks of 2017, according to Eater New York.
Denver:
Getting there: Denver is the hub of low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines. Flights to the city from both coasts can be deeply discounted, especially during one of Frontier’s frequent fare sales. Southwest also offers routes to Denver, along with two free checked bags, which is a rarity on major airlines these days and ideal if you intend to pack skiwear.
Where to stay: For an unforgettable hotel stay, there's no better place than the Crawford Hotel. You can begin sightseeing without even leaving the hotel, thanks to it's location in Denver's iconic Union Station. A car rental won't be necessary either. It's two blocks from Coors Field, and complimentary Tesla service transports guests to and from downtown.
What to do: Colorado ranks third nationally in total craft breweries, so it's no surprise that Denver has more than 50 within its city limits. Plan time for a brewery tour for $15, Travelzoo members receive $25 to spend on craft beer and pizza at the top-rated Nighthawk Brewery.
Los Angeles:
Getting there: LA takes New York’s three airports and raises it to five: LAX, Long Beach, Burbank, Santa Ana and Ontario. It’s within a 2-hour flight from the majority of west coast cities, and if choosing to road trip down to LA, you’ll drive along one of the country’s most scenic routes – the Pacific Coast Highway.
Where to stay: When visiting LA, you have your choice of destination: LA, Santa Monica, Laguna Beach and Redondo Beach, just to name a few. The Kimpton Hotel Wilshire is centrally located on LA's Miracle Mile and boasts a rooftop pool overlooking the famed Hollywood sign. If you're seeking a beach vibe, the Wyndham Santa Monica at the Pier, aptly named for its location, sits directly across from the Santa Monica Pier and two blocks from the Third Street Promenade.
What to do: There seems to be a competition among LA hoteliers to see who can have the best pool, and the Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills is a top contender. Its noted for it's high-end service and tropical aesthetic -- if it weren't for the skyline, you'd forget you were in LA. Travelzoo members can save nearly 50% on a spa and pool day at this celeb-favorite property and receive a pass for a return visit.
Miami:
Getting there: An ideal destination any time of the year, Miami is a sough-after escape for East Coasters looking to flee the winter. Expect to see roundtrip flights for less than $100 on Frontier Airlines. Spirit Airlines services the nearby Ft. Lauderdale area and offers similarly priced fares.
Where to stay: The inexpensive flights will offset the cost of Miami hotels in peak season, and at Avalon Hotel, an iconic Art Deco property on Ocean Drive, you'll receive continental breakfast and exclusive Travelzoo member-only perks on many of the dates through June.
What to do: One word: beach. After all, if you are coming from the Northeast in winter, that's where you'll want to be. However, if you prefer a pool and pampering to the sand and surf, Travelzoo offers a deal that saves 45% at the Spa at Shore Club, which Fodor's says is "the best of South Beach" for "lounging, people-watching, partying and poolside glitz."
Las Vegas:
Getting there: A weekend might be all you need in Vegas, and for West Coasters, it’s a quick trip – just an hour-long flight from Los Angeles. Spirit and Frontier Airlines make it a cheap trip, too. From surrounding cities, such as Denver and San Diego, fares can be found for as low as $39 roundtrip, and that’s not far off from weekday hotel prices either.
Where to stay: Vegas hotels cater to a variety of tastes whether you are looking to stay on the Strip near the hottest pool parties and nightlife like at Encore, or if you prefer a calmer off-the-Strip vibe with family-friendly amenities like at Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino. View all of our Vegas hotel options with our hotel search.
What to do: Gambling, pool parties, dance clubs - there's never a dull moment in Vegas. Even more, it's the mecca for entertainment, and Travelzoo offers discounted tickets to Penn & Teller's magic show,which the Los Angeles Times says is "the single best show in Vegas."