The Top 3 Weekend Escapes in the U.S

Sometimes you just need a break from the daily grind of work pressures and life's responsibilities. A weekend escape can be the perfect solution, to relax yourself and rejuvenate your mind. Traveling by car or by plane, the beauty of these getaways is that in no time, you're there, enjoying rest and relaxation in whatever way you choose.

Suggesting a distinctive experience for different seasons of the year, this list of the top three weekend escapes takes you to three very dissimilar - yet equally spectacular - areas of the country.

Spring/Summer Escape

The arrival of warm weather seems to call for fun in the sun. And, what better place could you find both than at the beach? Gulf Shores, Alabama is a splendid choice. Located along the coast of the Gulf of Mexico, as the name suggests, this wonderful haven is a well-kept secret among those who enjoy pristine beaches, delightful weather and vacations the entire family can enjoy. Yet, Gulf Shores offers much more than beaches. Ideal for your spring or summer getaway, you can enjoy 18-hole golf courses amidst waterfalls, view dolphin and other water creatures as you cruise Orange Beach, tour a 300-acre farm on horseback or take a thrilling ride down a water slide, among many attractions. Vacation packages are plentiful, including those with a special theme or interest such as packages for concerts, romance, golf and even shopping, just to name a few. Prices range from as low as $64 per night for the least expensive golf package to all-inclusive romance packages running around $800.

Fall Escape

Then, as autumn arrives, what fall weekend escape would be complete without a bed and breakfast inn amidst glorious fall foliage? If this cozy idea appeals to you, then Stowe, Vermontmay be your escape this autumn. From lovely farmhouses to mountain lodges to an Austrian chalet, these lovely houses-turned-hotels offer beautiful accommodations and wonderful food all against a scenic backdrop and a crackling fire. Besides leaf-peeping, you might indulge in art shows, musical theatre, hiking, bike trails, and even a tour of Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream Factory, not to mention fine dining and gracious service. Prices at these charming inns range from $45 at a tiny inn to $749 for a luxury suite filled with antiques. Clearly, Stowe, Vermont and its surrounding area have an ideal bed and breakfast to suit any price range.

Winter Escape

With winter comes snow and, if you're a skier, the slopes beckon. While Vail, Colorado tags itself as "America's favorite resort," Breckenridge, Coloradois the most popular destination in the U.S. for European skiers and second most popular with Americans. Known for its ski slopes (with an annual snowfall of 300 inches), Breckenridge has also developed a reputation for two international anomalies: its vast worldwide cuisines and being a popular wedding site for couples the world over seeking a ski-slope wedding. Ice skating, sledding, concerts, nightclubs, and other activities add to the enjoyment of a weekend in Breckenridge. Weekend ski packages, including a ski lesson, begin at $549 during peak season ($499 without the lesson) and begin at $200 less during early or late season weekends.

With at least three top weekend escapes right here in the U.S., you have a great getaway close by whenever you need a break.

Sources:

http://www.gulfshoresal.gov/

http://www.gulfshores.com/packages-deals/

http://www.lanierbb.com/Vermont/

http://www.lanierbb.com/stowe-vermont-bed-breakfast.html

http://www.snowskitickets.com/vacation-packages/skitrips/offseason-ski-trip-packages.html

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g33327-Activities-Breckenridge_Colorado.html