These American Cities Are The Most Romantic In The Country
Nothing makes sparks fly faster than a romantic getaway for two. Planning a trip for your special someone is the perfect way to rekindle the romance in your relationship, spend quality time with your beloved, or woo a new love interest. On vacation, the stresses of normal life begin to melt away. You'll be able to leave the monotony of everyday activities behind, and focus on connecting with one another. You'll be able to bond over new places and new experiences, share mouthwatering meals at restaurants you've never heard of, and create memories that will last long after you return home.
The United States is full of romantic getaways, and there are options for every type of traveler. No matter your sweetheart's taste, you're sure to find a destination they'll adore within the expansive country. Although it's possible to find romance in most American cities, several stand out as being particularly delightful destinations for lovers.
We researched reviews from real travelers, read multiple "best of" articles, and even planned romantic getaways of our own to find five of the most romantic cities in the country. We focused on destinations that offer a little something that every type of traveler will love. Whether you're in the mood for intimate restaurants that will make your favorite foodie's mouth water, nightlife that will keep you both on the dance floor all night long, or historic architecture and world-class museums that are perfect for history buffs — these destinations have it all. Pop a bottle of champagne, start packing your bags, and get ready for a vacation you'll never forget.
New Orleans
New Orleans is located in the southern state of Louisiana, and it's unlike any other place in the United States. The Big Easy is a cultural melting pot, and has been for hundreds of years. New Orleans' unique culture has been influenced by French, African, Caribbean, and Spanish immigrants who have each left their mark on the city over the years. The mouthwatering Cajun and Creole cuisines are best enjoyed in dim candlelit restaurants. The nightlife is endlessly exciting. Music lovers will adore visiting the historic venues — they're iconic places to see a show. New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, so you should absolutely catch some of the local jazz legends while you're in town. There are also plenty of other musical genres to enjoy in the city. You'll be able to see live music every night if you so choose.
If you're the kind of couple who loves to cuddle close during a spooky ghost story, you'll love learning about New Orleans' haunted history. Notorious ghosts, vampires, and occult practitioners are rumored to wander the streets. A New Orleans ghost tour with a local guide will send shivers up your spine. You can choose to stay in one of the best haunted hotels, or opt for an elegant bed-and-breakfast in a historic home with wrought iron balconies and courtyard pools. Luxurious five-star resort hotels where guests won't want for a single thing are also available.
Have breakfast at the iconic Café Du Monde and enjoy a classic New Orleans beignet with a strong cup of coffee and chicory. Spend the afternoon shopping in local boutiques and enjoying the architecture. When the sun begins to set, grab a Sazerac cocktail and get ready to enjoy a romantic night out on the town. Dancing, music, food, and memories that will last a lifetime await.
New York City
New York City is one of the most iconic urban destinations in the world, and one of the most historic cities in the United States. It's full of fascinating neighborhoods that each have their own unique vibe, so every type of traveler will find activities that can spark romance. Luxurious travelers will love the opportunity to stay in the most romantic hotels – the city has well over a hundred five-star options to choose from. If you want to spoil your partner with a shopping spree, you'll find a plethora of boutique shops and some of the most well-known luxury designers. Seeing a Broadway show while you're in town is also a must.
Couples who are fascinated by history can tour historic buildings, or simply admire them on a stroll through the bustling New York neighborhoods. Museums are plentiful. One of the most romantic days of my life occurred on a December day in New York City when I visited the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I recommend carving out plenty of time to see the exhibits, and then take a stroll through Central Park. Afterward, head to Bemelmans Bar in the stunning Carlyle Hotel. Live jazz or piano music, craft cocktails, and walls covered in hand-painted murals by Ludwig Bemelmans set the perfect amorous mood. The Carlyle Hotel has been frequented by countless musicians, movie stars, politicians, and artists. You never know what you're going to stumble upon in New York City or who you're going to run into, and that's part of its magic.
Make sure you explore some of New York City's most exciting neighborhoods for foodies. Sample local favorites like New York Style pizza and freshly made bagels when you're in the mood for something casual, or head to a glamorous Michelin-star restaurant for a romantic date night.
Charleston
If you're looking for a destination that oozes with Southern charm and elegance, head to Charleston. Located in South Carolina, Charleston is a coastal city that dates back over 300 years. Historic colonial architecture is scattered across the city, and many buildings remain remarkably well preserved. Book a room in a historic inn like 20 South Battery, or opt for one of the quaint accommodations on the waterfront, like The Cottages on Charleston Harbor. There's no shortage of stunning places to stay. Make sure to carve out some time to simply relax on the porch and enjoy the famous Southern hospitality.
Renting a bike is one of the best ways to see the city and makes for a fun and active date activity. Make sure to check out Rainbow Row on East Bay Street. The homes are painted in pretty pastel colors, and it's a great place to snap some cute couples photos during your romantic vacation. Afterward, head to the historic Charleston City Market and treat your sweetheart to a shopping spree. You'll find plenty of locally-made artisan goods as you browse the various booths. The market encompasses four city blocks, so you're sure to find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your romantic getaway.
There are some lovely places to watch the sunset in Charleston, so plan a picnic date to enjoy in a park one evening during your trip. Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park is an ideal choice. For the rest of your trip, dine at some of the many romantic restaurants around the city. Somewhere with a patio or views of the water will really set the mood for romance. If you're a fan of southern cooking and seafood, you'll love the culinary scene in Charleston.
Miami
Soft, white sand beaches, breezy palm trees, luxurious accommodations, and parties that never stop make Miami, Florida, a prime destination for travelers in search of romance. The balmy tropical air is a refreshing change if you live in a colder climate. As soon as you step off the plane, you'll be ready for a fruity rum drink and ocean views.
Miami is a city that naturally inspires passion. It's full of art, glamour, culture, and history. Luxurious hotels make the perfect home base, and it's easy to spend days simply relaxing by the pool and soaking up the sun. Esmé is a luxurious beach hotel that teleports you to a timeless Spanish village, and it's the perfect place to stay for a romantic weekend. It's located in the South Beach neighborhood on a street called Española Way. In the 1920s, the notorious gangster Al Capone liked to hang out there. You'll feel as though you've left the country without ever needing a passport.
It's easy to have a romantic vacation in Miami even without doing a ton of planning. Book the hotel, pack your swimsuit, and you can have a wonderful time simply chilling on the beach or biking around the city. If you do want something a little more exciting, hit the town. The nightlife is impressive. My favorite part of the city is the Little Havana neighborhood. Calle Ocho is an iconic street where you'll find plenty of delicious Cuban restaurants, live music, and dancing. As you wander the streets you'll smell the spicy aroma of Cuban cigars. Colorful murals and other public art displays are everywhere. The Cubaocho Museum and Performing Arts Center is the perfect place for a dose of authentic Latin culture. There's a bar with hundreds of different rums to try, and you can even sign up for Latin dance lessons.
Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a perfect destination for a romantic vacation. Located in Nevada, Las Vegas is one of America's tourist hotspots. It's nicknamed Sin City, and the unofficial catchphrase, "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas," encapsulates the city's spontaneous, mischievous, and passionate energy. Treat your special someone to a glamorous weekend in a suite at one of the luxurious casino hotels, and get dressed up for a night on the town. Try your hand at gambling, bounce between world-class restaurants and cocktail bars, or simply wander the strip and take in the sparkling lights.
There are plays, concerts, and other unique performances happening every single night, so you'll never run out of things to do. If you plan ahead, you might be able to score tickets to see one of your lover's favorite musical acts. If the weather is warm enough, spend a day relaxing by the pool. Many casino hotels have gorgeous rooftop pools and all-day pool parties.
One of the great things about traveling to Las Vegas is that once you've had your fill of the glitz and glamour, you're just a short drive away from some of the most stunning scenery in the United States. Rent a car for a day and head out of the city and into the stunning desert landscapes that surround it. Red Rock Canyon is close by. It's a top destination for rock climbing, but there is also a scenic drive and some excellent hiking trails. You'll be rewarded with stunning colors if you stay until sunset, and when night falls, starry skies replace the sparkle of city lights. If you're willing to drive a bit further you can visit Zion National Park in Utah, which is one of the best and most beautiful national parks in the United States.
Methodology
In order to formulate our list of the most romantic cities in the United States, we researched tons of travel blogs, reviews, and "best of" articles. We focused on destinations that offered variety so that they could appeal to all types of couples. In the cities we chose, there are options for just about everyone to enjoy. The United States is full of charming mid-size cities, but in order to narrow down our list we focused on big cities that are already popular among tourists. We searched for places with great nightlife, unique gastronomy, historic spots, and some access to nature. Our writer personally visited each of these cities during romantic getaways, so each recommendation comes straight from the heart. If you'd rather travel abroad, check out our list of the most romantic European destinations for couples to visit.