This year, we’re celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week at Wanderu from May 5-11 by checking out our favorite travel destinations in the U.S. Whether you love to travel in order to experience new perspectives or to bond with those you love, there is no denying that it’s fun to see somewhere with a pair of fresh eyes.
If you’re looking for a place to go for national travel and tourism week, we have a list of our favorite travel destinations that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired. The best part about these destinations: You don’t need a car! All of the destinations below are accessible by bus or train, which makes it quick and affordable for you to travel during National Travel and Tourism Week.
1. Santa Cruz
California is filled with places that are worthy of visiting for a weekend getaway. South of San Francisco, you’ll find Santa Cruz tucked away on the coast. From great surfing opportunities to good eats, you will not want to leave. You can easily take a train from Los Angeles to Santa Cruz or from San Francisco to Santa Cruz and visit for the weekend or just for the day. While staying in Santa Cruz, make sure to stop by the Chill Out Café and take a walk along the beach at Natural Bridges.
2. Tacoma
While a lot of people traveling to or within the Pacific Northwest have their eyes set on Seattle, don’t overlook the charming nature of Tacoma. With its various art galleries, flavorful restaurants and convenient location, it’s easily one of the greatest gems that Washington has to offer. You can take a train from Portland to Tacoma or from Seattle to Tacoma and just relax for the weekend or hop on a ferry out to the San Juan Islands. Before heading out to the islands, don’t forget to check out the Tacoma Art Museum and grab some food at the Golden Teak Thai Restaurant.
3. Colorado Springs
From its accessible mountains to great hiking trails, Colorado is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. If you would like to get closer to nature during National Travel and Tourism Week, then head out to Colorado Springs and enjoy more hiking trails than you’ll know what to do with. Hop on a bus from Denver to Colorado Springs or from Fort Collins to Colorado Springs and enjoy a weekend relaxing in nature. While you’re there, check out Urban Egg for some awesome breakfast food, or Mountain Shadows for a spectacular burger.
4. Portland, Maine
As an alternative travel destination to the White Mountains or Cape Cod, take an early spring trip to Portland, Maine! Easy to reach by bus or train, Portland is a coastal town that is filled with good eats and things to do. Take a bus or train from Boston to Portland or from Manchester to Portland for a weekend getaway. Make sure you stop by Casco Bay and do a little bit of canoeing or kayaking. If you’re a history buff, stop by the Portland Museum of Art. You’ll love strolling along the Maine coast and gazing out onto the ocean, and don’t miss a stop at the acclaimed Bissell Brothers brewing.
5. Charleston
Located on the shore of South Carolina, Charleston has plenty of delicious restaurants and things to do throughout the city. This ever-growing town features an enjoyable mixture of history and new development. If you’re looking for a southern weekend getaway during National Travel and Tourism Week, then make sure to stop by some of the most prominent landmarks in Charleston, from the City Market to the historic gardens. When you’re not taking in the southern coast from outside, grab some food at Hominy Grill or some traditional southern eats at Poogan’s Porch. You can easily travel by bus from Miami to Charleston, from Savannah to Charleston or by train to Charleston from Charlotte.
These destinations are some of the best places in the country if you’re looking for inspiration on where to go for National Travel and Tourism Week. Book your trip on Wanderu to snag the best available deals on bus and train travel!
