7 Leisure Travel Destinations

For many of you, it’s well past time to start traveling again. Couple that with the stress that virtually all of us have been under lately, and a leisurely weekend or week is definitely what the doctor ordered. Figuratively speaking of course.

The great news is, whether you’re looking to keep your relationship healthy and happy with a long weekend alone with your significant other or you just want to relax by yourself somewhere new, we’ve got some great leisure travel destinations that you may want to consider.

1. Portland, Maine

Every year, thousands of people board flights to Portland, Maine to relax, and there are some great reasons why:

• The Float Harder Relaxation Center: If you’re looking to calm your mind, escaping into weightless relaxation could be the key.
• The Soakology Tea Lounge & Spa: Sink into an overstuffed armchair and enjoy the subtle aromatherapy as you relax with a soothing foot soak. You can also enjoy a great cup of tea in solitude or while sitting in the tea lounge with companions.

And of course, there’s all the great scenery, restaurants, bars, shops, movie theaters, and of course the Portland Museum of Art. When it comes to leisurely travel destinations, you can almost never go wrong with Portland.

2. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Ready to feel rejuvenated? Visit the hot springs and experience a mineral bathing ritual that is said to have healing properties that some people claim leaves them feeling better than they have in years.

3. Utah

We included the whole state on this one because it offers a lot of great ways to relax. From the perfect road trip to secluded cabins, pick any of these destinations for a nice, leisurely getaway:

• Stein Eriksen Lodge in Park City
• The Hotel Monaco in Salt Lake City
• The Sorrel River Ranch Resort and Spa 
• Hines Mansion in Provo

Utah has some of the most scenic places in the country—you could throw a dart at a map and no matter where it landed, you could have a fantastic, relaxing time. 

4. Rome, Italy

A trip to Italy is on a lot of people’s bucket lists and there’s little wonder why. With sites like the Sistine Chapel, the Colosseum, and the Vatican, a leisurely stroll through history is definitely a great way to spend some time away.

5. Newport, Rhode Island

If you want to relax and unwind near or on the water, Newport could be perfect for you. With plenty of quaint day spas in town, you can enjoy a facial or fantastic massage close to almost anywhere you’re staying.

6. Martha’s Vineyard

The rich and famous visit regularly and many have second or third homes here, so you know it has to have some alluring features. Take advantage of quiet seaside hotels, picturesque nature trails, and sandy beaches for a relaxing weekend. However, don’t forget to visit the oldest operating platform carousel in the U.S., the Flying Horses Carousel.

7. Lumahai Beach, Kauai, Hawaii

If you’re not a fan of swimming in the ocean but you love relaxing on the beach and enjoying beautiful weather, this is the destination for you. While experienced surfers can catch some strong waves at certain times of the year, it is known as one of the most dangerous beaches for drownings due to a strong undertow and swimming is not recommended.

However, this picturesque white sand beach is ideal for lounging in the sun and you may even recognize the beautiful scenery from the movie ‘South Pacific.’

Unless it’s for business or a funeral, traveling somewhere new should always be relaxing, but unfortunately that doesn’t always happen—especially when visiting the “wrong” city for leisure. Choosing one of the places we recommended today won’t guarantee that you’ll completely recharge, but there’s definitely a good chance you will.