Feeling like you need a vacay? You’re definitely not alone. That said, for some, disconnecting from the office for a long period of time just doesn’t seem feasible. For others, the added expense of visiting a far-flung locale might mean missing rent next month. The next best thing? Long weekend trips. So it should come as no surprise that a new travel trend has recently emerged called the micro-cation–or microtrip. The microtrip movement involves taking several short vacations throughout the year instead of splurging on one big, luxurious trip.
According to the 2019 Vacation Confidence Index, an annual survey conducted by Allianz Global Assistance, more Americans than ever are opting to take shorter vacations. Defined as a trip that lasts fewer than five nights, half of the participants among those surveyed took at one or more microtrip in the past year. Feeling intrigued? Here are our top four picks for the best long weekend trips–er, micro-vacations–to book today.
1. New Orleans
NOLA may be synonymous with Mardi Gras, but there are still plenty of things to do in this cultural capital year-round, which is why it’s one of the best long places for a short vacation. Listen to live jazz accompanied by a burlesque show at SoBou, grab a classic cocktail from the rotating carousel at The Carousel Bar or indulge in the infamous 25-cent martini lunch at Commander’s Palace. Book a room at Hotel Le Marais, bar hop on Bourbon Street, and don’t forget to grab a shrimp po’boy at Parkway Bakery & Tavern before you head back home.
2. Los Angeles
If you’re heading west, set your sights no further than the City of Angels for a dreamy micro-cation. Live like an A-lister at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, perfectly situated near a wide array of trendy bars, lounges and restaurants. Go shopping on Abbott Kinney Blvd. in Venice, take a guided tour of Sony Studios, then sign up for surf lessons at Surfrider Beach in Malibu. Afterward, indulge in dinner (and a possible celebrity sighting!) at Nobu Malibu or at The Lobster on the Santa Monica Pier.
3. Chicago
The Windy City may be cold, but it’s also a hotbed for sports, food, and entertainment. Catch a baseball game at Wrigley Field, get behind the wheel of a real race car at the Chicagoland Speedway or dig into a Chicago deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s. Get some shuteye at the Viceroy Chicago, but don’t miss Space p11, an underground art gallery where you can explore dance performances, talks, and exhibitions. End your trip with celebratory drinks at The Hyde, a 1920s-style speakeasy.
4. New York City
There are plenty of reasons why New York City is consistently one of the most popular destinations in the world. Although you won’t be able to see everything in just a few short days, there should still be enough time to check several items off of your bucket list during a long weekend trip. Stay near the hustle and bustle at the Moxy NYC Times Square, then walk over to the TKTS booth to score half-price tickets to a Broadway show. Sample a slice of heaven at East Village Pizza, dance the night away at The Jane or Public Arts, or take a stroll through Central Park before toasting your best (short) vacation yet at The Gaf West, where regulars like Jimmy Fallon can grab a beer and catch a live comedy show.
Which of these long weekend trips is on your travel list? Tell us in the comments–and shop vacation-ready resort wear here!
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