Weekend Getaways: 2-3 Day Trips Worth the Drive or Short Flight
The weekend trip is the gateway drug of group travel: low commitment, low cost, and the easiest yes you'll ever get out of a group chat. The best ones follow a formula — under four hours door to door, one anchor activity, and lodging that makes Friday-night arrival painless.
These guides map the best 48-to-72-hour escapes from major metros, starting with the biggest: New York and Los Angeles.
Start here
- Best Weekend Getaways From NYC (By Car, Train & Quick Flight)The best weekend getaways from New York City in 2026 — Hudson Valley, Catskills, beach towns, and the short flights that beat a long drive, with group tips.
- Best Weekend Getaways From Los AngelesThe best weekend trips from LA — Palm Springs, San Diego, Big Bear, Santa Barbara, Ojai, and the Central Coast, with honest drive times and group-trip math.
Plan this trip with your group
Trazo Travel makes group trip planning and expense splitting painless — build your itinerary, vote on plans, and settle up without spreadsheets.