Staying Stateside This Summer

Celebrate classic USA.

You don’t need a passport to plan an unforgettable summer. Domestic travel is having a moment—and Memorial Day is the perfect excuse to book that trip you’ve been putting off. Explore the USA and experience its the full breadth of glittering cities, timeless small towns, untamed wilderness, and even tropical shores.

If you’re looking to fly and flop (or prefer to drive and drop), or doing a road trip adventure, staying stateside opens up endless possibilities for this summer. From mountain getaways and charming coastal towns to awe-inspiring national parks, some of the best itineraries right now are right here at home. Beach days, rugged landscapes, cultural centers, urban escapes, boutique stays, all-inclusive resorts, and remote cabins—plus some of the best theme park experiences anywhere.

That’s exactly where domestic travel shines. Staying within the U.S. lets you skip the long-haul logistics, and with the right destination (and the right place to stay), even a short trip can deliver a real sense of escape.

Photo credit: Chatham Bars Inn. Read the Cape Cod, Nantcucket and Martha’s Vinyard Travel Guide

If you have a weekend…

When time is tight, I guide clients toward options that deliver a full experience with minimal complexity.

Savannah, Georgia

A long weekend is just right for settling into Savannah’s easygoing rhythm. Its dining scene rivals that of much larger cities, with standouts that include Common Thread, Late Air, and The Grey. Outside of mealtime, you can go gallery hopping, explore nearby Tybee Island, and shop along Broughton and Bull streets. I love Perry Lane Hotel or Hotel Bardo for design-forward stays. 

Las Vegas, Nevada

Three or four days is the perfect amount of time to tap into Vegas’s electric energy without overdoing it. I often steer clients toward the Wynn and Encore for their polished, tech-forward rooms, excellent spas, and impressive range of dining outlets (20+ options spanning everything from a casual wood-fired pizzeria to a high-end sushi counter). The city’s music scene has never been better. Big-name residencies and high-octane Sphere shows deliver nonstop energy, while intimate blues and jazz lounges spotlight acts that still feel like a well-kept secret.

Sensei Porcupine Creek, California

Set on a private estate in Rancho Mirage, this restorative resort centers on personalized wellness. Your days might include guided hikes and one-on-one fitness sessions to build strength and mobility, spa treatments designed to restore balance, and nutrition consultations tailored to how you want to feel—both during your stay and long after.

Nemacolin, Pennsylvania

A true all-in-one resort, this 2,200-acre property caters to families who want a mix of activities and downtime without overthinking the logistics. Kids can stay busy with wildlife encounters, outdoor adventures, and dedicated programming, while adults rotate between the spa, golf, and guided experiences. Relaxed, family-friendly meals bring everyone together at the start and end of the day.

If you have a week…

A few extra days make room for a deeper experience at a comfortable pace—something I find essential in destinations where there’s a lot to see or more ground to cover. 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

The charming villages that make up this quintessential New England region are best explored when you have time to appreciate each one’s distinct character. You might spend a morning biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail, an afternoon at Nauset Beach, and an evening ordering lobster rolls at a dockside shack. Chatham Bars Inn is my go-to for that classic New England polish, and Wequassett Resort and Golf Club is a favorite for something a bit more low-key and tucked away. 

Wyoming

The Western state lends itself to a vacation defined by open landscapes and outdoor adventures. At Brush Creek Ranch, days revolve around horseback riding, fly fishing, and guided activities. (Bonus: the all-inclusive structure that makes it easy to unplug.) For clients who want a less remote option, the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole provides a well-located base in Teton Village with direct access to Grand Teton National Park.

Orlando, Florida 

For many families, a Disney or Universal trip feels like a rite of passage. With so much to see and do, it’s worth pacing things out over a few days, leaving room to revisit favorite rides and experiences. I like pairing park days with a stay at Four Seasons Resort Orlando, which offers a true resort reset (lazy river, standout kids’ club, excellent dining), or The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, where the setting feels more removed and relaxed after high-energy days in the parks.

Hawaii 

Where you stay in Hawaii shapes the entire trip, so I always start by homing in on the island. For example, Maui is a smart choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed, beach-focused experience with great snorkeling and scenic drives built into your stay. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea gives you a prime beachfront location and walkable access to Wailea’s restaurants and shops. For more variety, I’d steer you toward Oahu, which brings together city energy, beaches, and cultural sites. Halekulani provides a calm, polished home base while keeping you in the heart of Waikiki.