Whether you’re considering a romantic day trip closer to your residence or contemplating a getaway to a new destination, we have scoured the entire United States to compile a list of 51 of the most enchanting places. These locations cater to various preferences and interests, ranging from picturesque settings with ideal backdrops for proposals to urban escapes for those seeking city adventures, and quirky attractions that promise unforgettable memories.
And remember, even if you are not accompanied by a significant other this year, as Oscar Wilde aptly said, “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” Here are 51 romantic destinations across each U.S. state and Washington, D.C.
1. Alabama: Cheaha State Park: Discover Alabama’s highest elevation at Cheaha State Park, nestled in the Talladega National Forest. Ideal for those who love the outdoors, with activities like fishing, rock climbing, and geocaching available.
2. Alaska: Mendenhall Ice Caves: Explore the stunning Mendenhall Ice Caves, where the ethereal blue glow inside the ice creates an unforgettable visual spectacle.
3. Arizona: Emerald Cave: Kayak to Emerald Cave and see the remarkable green waters that make this hidden gem a must-visit along the Arizona-Nevada border.
4. Arkansas: Whitaker Point: Visit Whitaker Point, also known as Hawksbill Crag, and stand atop this breathtaking rock formation in the Ozarks, perfect for a memorable photograph or a heartfelt proposal.
5. California: Griffith Observatory: Enjoy cinematic history and expansive city views at the Griffith Observatory, an emblem of Los Angeles’s Hollywood heritage.
6. Colorado: Bishop Castle: Witness the singular vision of Bishop Castle, an extraordinary structure built by one man’s relentless effort, located near Colorado Springs.
7. Connecticut: Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse: The Saybrook Breakwater Lighthouse offers nostalgic charm on the Connecticut coast, making it a lovely spot for a scenic boat ride.
8. Delaware: Rehoboth Beach: Visit Rehoboth Beach for a blend of quiet beachfront relaxation and lively boardwalk entertainment, suitable for visits any time of the year.
9. Florida: Downtown St. Augustine: Step back in time in downtown St. Augustine, where the blend of history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant nightlife creates a perfect romantic setting.
10. Georgia: Savannah’s River Street: Wander along the historic River Street in Savannah, where old cobblestones line the path of charming eateries and art galleries overlooking the river.
11. Hawaii: Pu‘upehe (Sweetheart Rock): Learn about the legend of Pu‘upehe or Sweetheart Rock on Lānaʻi, a storied location that offers dramatic ocean views and a tale of enduring love.
12. Idaho: Sun Valley: Year-round adventures await at Sun Valley, a favored destination for couples who enjoy the great outdoors and stunning landscapes.
13. Illinois: 360 Chicago: Take in sweeping views of Chicago from the 360 Chicago observation deck, where a chic bar enhances the experience.
14. Indiana: The Kissing Bridges of Parke County: Explore the nostalgic “kissing bridges” of Parke County, where covered bridges offer a quaint and romantic backdrop to Indiana’s rural scenery.
15. Iowa: Pikes Peak State Park: Marvel at the panoramic views from the bluffs of Pikes Peak State Park, an ideal spot for nature lovers and those passionate about outdoor activities.
16. Kansas: Monument Rocks: Admire the enduring beauty of Monument Rocks, ancient geological formations that speak to the timeless nature of the landscape.
17. Kentucky: Cumberland Falls: Experience the unique moonbow phenomenon at Cumberland Falls, a stunning natural wonder often referred to as “The Niagara of the South.”
18. Louisiana: New Orleans City Park: Escape to the romantic and peaceful New Orleans City Park, where sprawling green spaces and historic features create a perfect escape within the city.
19. Maine: Isle au Haut: Enjoy a secluded getaway to Isle au Haut, an idyllic island offering serene landscapes and intimate experiences off the coast of Maine.
20. Maryland: Assateague Island National Seashore: Relax on the beaches of Assateague Island National Seashore, where wild horses roam and the natural beauty creates a perfect romantic setting.
21. Massachusetts: Boston’s Public Garden: Stroll through Boston’s Public Garden, a lush Victorian-era park with picturesque ponds and pathways, ideal for a leisurely day out.
22. Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Engage in a variety of outdoor activities or simply enjoy the breathtaking views at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore along Lake Michigan.
23. Minnesota: Split Rock Lighthouse: Visit the iconic Split Rock Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Superior, offering majestic views and a slice of regional history.
24. Mississippi: Natchez Trace Parkway: Take a scenic drive along the Natchez Trace Parkway, which showcases spectacular autumn colors and stretches across three states.
25. Missouri: Ha Ha Tonka State Park: Explore the diverse natural features of Ha Ha Tonka State Park, from blufftop castle ruins to natural bridges and tranquil waters, perfect for adventurous couples.
26. Montana: Lake McDonald: Relax by the vibrant pebble shores of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, a serene location known for its natural beauty.
27. Nebraska: Valentine National Wildlife Refuge: Celebrate romance in the tranquil Valentine National Wildlife Refuge, where nature’s calm offers a perfect setting for couples.
28. Nevada: Tonopah: Stargaze in Tonopah, a town famed for its dark skies and unique local character, providing a romantic and mysterious night sky viewing experience.
29. New Hampshire: Lincoln Ice Castles: Visit the Lincoln Ice Castles, a magical winter attraction that transforms ice into enchanting structures, creating a fairy-tale experience in New Hampshire.
30. New Jersey: Passion Puddle: Discover the charming story of Passion Puddle at Rutgers University, where local lore adds a romantic note to the scenic beauty of this tranquil pond.
31. New Mexico: Dwan Light Sanctuary: Experience tranquility at the Dwan Light Sanctuary in Las Vegas, New Mexico, where light and space create a unique artistic atmosphere perfect for contemplative moments.
32. New York: Niagara Falls: Visit the iconic Niagara Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder and a storied honeymoon destination known worldwide for its impressive cascades.
33. North Carolina: Highlands: Explore the quaint town of Highlands in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering cozy accommodations and spectacular mountain views for a romantic retreat.
34. North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt National Park: Enjoy the serene landscapes where the Great Plains meet the Badlands in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a haven for stargazing and nature walks.
35. Ohio: Crystal Cave: Explore Crystal Cave, the world’s largest geode, offering a dazzling display of natural crystals that create a unique and enchanting underground environment.
36. Oklahoma: Center of the Universe: Visit the mysterious Center of the Universe in Tulsa, where a simple whisper can create a surprising acoustic phenomenon, adding a playful element to your visit.
37. Oregon: Thor’s Well: Witness the dramatic natural spectacle of Thor’s Well on the Oregon coast, where sea water surges and recedes powerfully, making for a memorable visit.
38. Pennsylvania: The Poconos: Retreat to the tranquil Pocono Mountains, a long-time favorite for honeymoons and romantic getaways, featuring stunning landscapes and private resorts.
39. Rhode Island: Mohegan Bluffs: Take in the expansive views from Mohegan Bluffs, a dramatic cliffside offering breathtaking sights of the ocean and a scenic setting for a peaceful walk.
40. South Carolina: Pitt Street Bridge: Enjoy a romantic stroll along the Pitt Street Bridge in Mount Pleasant, where the serene environment and waterfront views create a picturesque evening.
41. South Dakota: Black Hills National Forest: Venture into the Black Hills National Forest, where the vast landscapes provide numerous outdoor activities and scenic spots for couples to explore together.
42. Tennessee: Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Ascend to Clingmans Dome in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a breathtaking panorama of Tennessee’s most famous mountain range, offering numerous trails and photo opportunities.
43. Texas: San Antonio River Walk: Meander along the San Antonio River Walk, a vibrant and scenic heart of the city known for its lively dining scene and beautiful riverfront paths.
44. Utah: Delicate Arch: Visit Delicate Arch, an iconic natural arch that stands as a symbol of Utah’s rugged beauty, offering a spectacular backdrop for photos and quiet moments.
45. Vermont: Scenic Route 100 Byway: Drive along the Scenic Route 100 Byway, a picturesque road that winds through Vermont’s countryside, showcasing the state’s pastoral beauty and quaint towns.
46. Virginia: Natural Bridge: Explore the majestic Natural Bridge, a geological formation that has captivated visitors for centuries with its impressive arch and surrounding trails.
47. Washington: Ruston Way Waterfront: Walk along Ruston Way Waterfront in Tacoma, where the views of Puget Sound and Mount Rainier provide a romantic setting for an evening stroll.
48. Washington, D.C.: Tidal Basin: Paddle through the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., enjoying close-up views of the Jefferson Memorial and the seasonal splendor of the Cherry Blossom Festival.
49. West Virginia: Lindy Point: Experience the stunning vistas from Lindy Point in Blackwater Falls State Park, a prime spot for appreciating West Virginia’s mountainous landscapes.
50. Wisconsin: Schoolhouse Beach: Visit Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island, a unique shoreline covered with smooth white stones, offering a quiet and picturesque setting for relaxation.
51. Wyoming: Grand Prismatic Spring: Behold the striking colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring in Yellowstone National Park, the largest hot spring in the U.S., known for its vivid hues and steamy, otherworldly atmosphere.