Although we love traveling internationally, we also love exploring North America. There are tons of awesome places to explore that are easily doable from LA (or SoCal in general) even if you only have a weekend!
1. Ojai, California.
Ojai is like a hidden oasis in the mountains just inland of Ventura. It’s a little over an hour and a half drive from LA. There are a few very cute inns and hotels in downtown Ojai, but they are quite expensive. We prefer to camp in the surrounding area and visit the town for brunch and shopping. Check out our list of awesome campsites around Ojai here.
2. Scottsdale, Arizona.
Scottsdale is about a six hour drive from LA, but Southwest airlines offers cheap and frequent flights over as well. If we have a three day weekend, we prefer to drive so we can stop by Joshua Tree National Park on the way!
We love Scottsdale for its hot and dry climate. It makes for an amazing pool getaway – we spend more time in the water than out of it when we visit! There’s also great food and a fun comedy club in Tempeh which is nearby.
3. Temecula, California.
Temecula is home to one of the best wine regions in the country. People tell us that “this is what Napa used to be like”. Meaning delicious wines, low prices and a laid back feel. Plus it’s only an hour and a half’s drive from LA. Visit in the fall when the grapes are being harvested for an insider’s perspective into the wine making process!
4. Cabo San Lucas, Mexico.
This one is more of a 3 or 4 day weekend trip. Cabo is a quick two and a half hour flight from LA with loads of direct flights departing from LAX. Once you arrive you’ll feel like you’re a world away, with balmy sunsets, warm sandy beaches and absolutely amazing Mexican food. If you’re into fishing or diving, there are lot’s of great opportunities for that here too.
5. Santa Barbara, California.
It’s worth driving up Pacific Coast Highway for this destination. Take in the sparkling waters of the Pacific on your left hand side as you jet on up to surfer country. Santa Barbara offers relaxation in the sunshine. Check out our extended itinerary here.
6. Las Vegas, Nevada.
Vegas is a four hour drive away from LA (but can be more on the way back due to traffic). Here are a couple of do’s and dont’s for Las Vegas!
Do: check out the Cosmopolitan for its beautiful glass chandelier curtains. Make sure to visit Secret Pizza when your craving some late night greasy satisfaction.
Don’t: miss the Bellagio – you’ll regret not seeing its gorgeous gardens and Chihuly glass ceiling. If you’re staying here, you’ll be able to access the brunch buffet (which we’ve heard is heavenly).
Do: visit the Top of the World restaurant in the Stratosphere, one of the older Vegas casinos. You’ll get a 360 revolving view over Vegas along with delicious (and relatively less expensive) bites and eats.
Don’t: forget to visit Old Town Las Vegas! This is where the magic began. It’s located off the strip and has a completely different feel. There are lots of amazing brunch spots, live music and old-school “seedy but cool” casinos dotting Fremont street.
7. Sacramento, California.
Sacramento may not be at the top of everyones bucket list, but it’s one of California’s best-kept secrets. We love the relaxed and laid-back vibe. It’s a place we visit in the fall and winter to actually experience seasons! Check out the states capitol building. There are so many amazing brunch places and there is an adorable old town as well. Apple Hill is an amazing place to visit during the fall – there are delicious pastries, ciders and other treats available! Sacramento is also home to one of our favorite vineyards, Bogle, which is a must-do on any trip to Sacramento.
8. Niagara Falls, Canada.
Okay, so this one works best if you have a 3 or 4 day weekend. Take the JetBlue red-eye to Buffalo, New York, and rent a car to cross the border into Fall’s View. You can also explore the falls from the NY side! Check out our deep dive weekend itinerary here.
9. Catalina Island, California.
Catalina can be visited during a day trip, but if you have the time extend your trip to make a full weekend out of it. To get here, you’ll take the Catalina Express ferry over from Long Beach. The journey takes an hour, is very scenic, and there are drinks and snacks on board for purchase.
Avalon appears to be somewhat styled after the Italian Rivieria. Take your time and wander through the small downtown area which is dotted with small shops and restaurants. Rent a golf cart and tour the back roads of the island. If you have time, jet over to Two Harbors (the other main town on the island). Stay in the luxurious Hotel Atwater which was built in the 1920’s and still preserves some of its historic elegance (and is only a few steps from the beach!).