10 Best Mini Breaks in the US

Palm Springs is an excellent base for those looking to explore California’s Desert Region. This quintessential outdoor destination has abundant sunshine and activities for the whole family, along with world-class resorts, golf courses, and relaxing spas. Hikers can tackle miles of scenic trails amid iconic landscapes within Joshua Tree National Park, Coachella Valley Preserve, and Agua Caliente Indian Canyons.

At over 10,800 ft, Mount San Jacinto serves as a majestic backdrop to Palm Springs. The Palm Springs Aerial Tramway takes you to the Mountain Station, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding desert landscape. READ MORE…

Las Vegas has plenty to offer, from luxurious casino resorts and buzzing nightclubs to vast canyons and state parks. A mini break in this entertainment capital of the world often includes gravity-defying roller coasters, games arcades, fountain shows at the Bellagio, and gondola rides at the Venetian.

Las Vegas is also excellent for enjoying the outdoors, with beautiful state parks and vast canyons within driving distance of The Strip and Las Vegas Boulevard. Located in the Mojave Desert are the Red Rock Canyon National Conservancy Area and the Valley of Fire State Park, both known for their red sandstone formations. READ MORE…

Monterey is a great city if you’re looking for a mini break. Located on California's central coast, it has miles of beaches and family-friendly attractions, as well as art galleries, excellent restaurants, and world-class golf courses.

Monterey Bay Aquarium is one of the city’s highlights, housing exotic marine specimens like hammerhead sharks, sea lions, and jellyfish. In summer, fall, and winter, whale-watching cruises regularly depart from Old Fisherman's Wharf. This corner of the West Coast is also renowned for scenic drives along Big Sur, backed by the Pacific Ocean and Santa Lucia Mountains. READ MORE…

Miami is a colourful coastal city with a strong Cuban influence. Great for a mini break in summer, you can find miles of pristine beaches and cycling paths fronting the Atlantic Ocean. Quaint areas offer a wide range of dining, shopping, and nightlife opportunities.

Visit South Beach for well-preserved architecture in the Art Deco District and excellent shopping along the pedestrian-friendly Lincoln Road. A short drive from central Miami takes you to Key Biscayne and Miami Beach, where you can find even more things to see and do during your mini break. READ MORE…

San Diego boasts a 17-mile-long coastline, with clean beaches suitable for swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and snorkelling. The city appeals to just about everyone, especially families on a mini break. Must-visits include the Balboa Park Carousel, San Diego Zoo, and Belmont Park.

Art lovers can enjoy a relaxing stroll through Chicano Park, while the adventurous at heart can hike through the 1,200-acre Balboa Park and Torrey Pines State Reserve. You can experience the city’s vibrant Spanish community and enjoy live mariachi performances in Old Town San Diego. READ MORE…

Denver appeals to adventurers, thanks to its location in the South Platte River Valley. It serves as a base for those looking to explore the natural landscapes of Colorado, especially the Rocky Mountains.

The city of Denver has plenty of historic landmarks, world-class museums, and gorgeous parks. Experience its flourishing arts scene by checking out the Denver Art Museum in Capitol Hill. Denver also has a thriving beer and artisanal drink scene, so end your day with a unique brew or cocktail at the city’s nightlife spots. READ MORE…

Biloxi sits on the Gulf of Mexico, with 26 miles of white-sand beaches fronting the Mississippi Sound. One of its most photographed landmarks is the Biloxi Lighthouse, which offers spectacular views of the Gulf Coast. You can hop on a ferry to barrier islands like Deer Island and Ship Island, both home to exotic wildlife like loggerhead turtles, pelicans, and alligators.

Within Biloxi itself is a cluster of luxurious casino resorts with a range of family-friendly amenities. The Beau Rivage Theatre hosts touring comedians and musicians throughout the year – past performers include Jay Leno, Tony Bennett, and Blue Man Group. READ MORE…

Charleston, established in the 1600s, is the largest and oldest city in South Carolina. The skyline is dominated by the church spires of St Mary's Catholic Church, Mother Emanuel AME Church, and the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul. There’s plenty of historical landmarks to explore, especially in the Charleston Historic District. Must-visits include the Charleston Museum, Calhoun Mansion, The Battery, and Fort Sumter.

The Charleston Harbour is the city’s hub for family-friendly attractions, from the South Carolina Aquarium to Joe Riley Waterfront Park. Animal lovers can spot pelicans, laughing gulls, dolphins, and river otters close to the water’s edge. READ MORE…

Portland is a city that puts a high value on culture, hosting plenty of art galleries, annual festivals, art installations, and unique museums. There’s also a mix of fine dining and street food, along with breweries and distilleries throughout the city centre.

Set on the banks of the Willamette River, Portland boasts vast expanses of green space. Washington Park is particularly popular with locals, offering 15 miles of trails, a Japanese garden, museums, and the International Rose Test Garden. Riding the Portland Aerial Tram gives you panoramic views of city centre Portland and nearby mountaintops. READ MORE…

San Antonio boasts a rich history and natural beauty in south-central Texas. The city is most famous for the Alamo, a Spanish colonial mission and battleground dating back to the 18^th century. There's also the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which has 4 more historical frontier missions.

San Antonio is a gateway to the Texas Hill Country, known for natural wonders like Packsaddle Mountain, Enchanted Rock, Bridge Caverns, and Longhorn Cavern State Park. End the day exploring San Antonio’s River Walk, where artisanal shops, quaint cafés, Tex-Mex restaurants, and live music joints occupy the 5-mile-long path. READ MORE…