Last-Minute Road Trip Getaways From 5 U.S. Cities
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Looking to take a last minute vacation? Here are some quick road trip suggestions for a last minute vacation with adventurous stops across the US.

From Atlanta: Chattanooga, Tennessee

Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours

  • Gone With the Wind Museum – Marietta, GA: Great balls of fire! When planning your last minute vacation route, consider visiting this charming museum at Brumby Hall to view memorabilia from the beloved book and film.
  • Resaca Battlefield Historic Site – Resaca, GA: This field was host to a Civil War battle. But today, it offers trails to get some fresh air while taking in some history.
  • Dalton Distillery – Dalton, GA: You’re near the end of your drive and it’s time to enjoy a 100-year-old moonshine recipe. Why not try TazaRay? The distillery makes this spirit with corn and malted sunflower seeds. It also claims to be the only beverage in the world using the seed.

Upon reaching your destination, unwind at this modern urban abode, an awesome last minute vacation rental just steps from the buzz of charming Chattanooga.

From New York City: Cape May, New Jersey

Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours, 45 minutes

  • FirstEnergy Park – Lakewood, NJ: Bring a baseball glove and catch a BlueClaw game at this state-of-the-art Minor League Baseball stadium. 
  • Jersey Shore beaches – Coastal, NJ: Ready to cool off and get some sun? Plan to pull off Garden State Parkway and dip your toes in at a beach along the infamous Jersey Shore. 
  • Steel Pier Amusement Park – Atlantic City, NJ: This historic park fills 1,000 feet of boardwalk in North Beach with roller coasters, carousels, and vendors serving  funnel cakes, ice cream, and seafood.

Once you arrive at Cape May, drop your bags at this airy coastal condo, then sink your toes in the sand and explore the town.

 

A mountain trail leading toward Chasm lake under Longs Peak, Colorado

A mountain trail leading toward Chasm lake under Longs Peak, Colorado

 

From Phoenix: Sedona, Arizona

Approximate Driving Time: 2 hours

  • New River Off Road – New River, AZ: Here you can cruise through the desert on a side-by-side ATV! Anyone can drive these rigs and get to know the sandy, rocky terrain with four tires underneath them!
  • Arcosanti – Mayer, AZ: Make a point to take a guided tour through these architectural marvels thought up as an alternative to city living. The rounded buildings are made of concrete, soil, and cement and mimic the natural contours of the earth. 
  • Bell Rock Trail – Sedona, AZ: Try hiking this 1 to 1.5-mile loop leads to Bell Rock, a stunning red structure featured in many Sedona photos. Be prepared to visit early to avoid crowds and find easy parking.

While in Sedona, also be sure to check out the Red Rock Scenic Byway, which many refer to as a “museum without walls”. Or plan a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, and chow down on tacos at Elote Cafe. And don’t forget to book a stay at this lovely casita with the best backyard views.

From Denver: Estes Park, Colorado

Approximate Driving Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

  • Mad Rabbit Distillery – Westminster, CO: This family-owned craft distillery specializes in bourbon whiskey. Their bourbon is made with locally sourced non-GMO corn and malted barley, and is aged for two or more years. 
  • Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge – Superior, CO: Get ready to meander 10 miles of trails where you may see over 630 species of plants and 239 wildlife species.
  • River and Woods – Boulder, CO: This 100-year-old miners cabin hosts a restaurant serving locally sourced dishes like Rocky Mountain trout and bison cheeseburgers. There are also plenty of non-meat options too, with ingredients like ancient grains, and fresh local veggies.

Upon arrival, you can call this custom lodge with expansive views your basecamp during your adventures. Here you can soak up the sounds of nature right from your last minute vacation rental.

From Los Angeles: Ojai, California

Approximate Driving Time: 1 hour, 45 minutes

  • Hollywood Walk of Fame – Los Angeles, CA: Plan a stop to visit your favorite stars cemented on this famous walk.  Here you can snap a photo with signatures from celebs like Muhammad Ali, Fred Astair, and Judy Garland.
  • Moque Brazilian Restaurant – Thousand Oaks, CA: This Brazilia eatery is known for their namesake fish stew and seafood cooked in clay pots, a method called panella de barro! We recommend that you try seabass, lobster, or shrimp, or go for the vegan option with veggies and plantains. 
  • Ventura Botanical Gardens – Ventura, CA: There are over 70,000 plants in this 107-acre collection. Spend some time wandering through Native Californian chaparral or stroll along colorful South African specimens!  

Are you looking to make this a multi-day adventure? Consider splurging on this beachfront vacation rental and wake up to the sound of waves right outside your door.

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