15 Quick Weekend Getaways Near 5 Major US Cities

Spending time in nature is one of the best ways to recharge your batteries. It enables us to reconnect with our roots and gives us space from the pressures of life. You may not get away as much as you would like to if you live in a big city. However, you can escape to nature no matter where you live. Below, you’ll find quick natural getaways located near five major U.S. cities.


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15 Weekend Trips for 5 Big US Cities



Los Angeles, California

  • Virginia Robinson Gardens - This former residence turned historic landmark is six-acres of natural beauty. You’ll find tranquil multi-level gardens, canopies of fronds, and so much more. You can even arrange a property tour, which will allow you to see the lot’s rose garden and formal lawns.
  • The Los Angeles County Arboretum - The Arboretum in Los Angeles is 127 acres of everything you want in a natural escape. You’ll find beautiful plants and flowers, a lake, pond, and even a waterfall here. Visit and say hi to the park’s peacocks, ducks, and turtles.
  • Vista Hermosa Natural Park - Vista Hermosa is a 10.5 acre natural park that features walking trails, streams, picnic grounds, meadows, and more. Located near the Western Gateway to Downtown LA, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.



Houston, Texas

  • Bear Creek Pioneers Park - Located on the western edge of Northwest Houston, Bear Creek is 2,154 acres of outdoor fun. Visit to find serene walking trails, horseshoe courts, playgrounds, and even a miniature zoo.
  • Katy Prairie Conservancy - This getaway features 13,000 acres of diverse natural habitats. You’ll find historic farms, prairies, butterflies, alligators, almost 200 different bird species, and much more. The Katy Prairie Conservancy allows residents of Houston to experience the region’s natural condition.
  • Baytown Nature Center - The Baytown Nature Center is a 450-acre wildlife sanctuary and recreational area that’s spread out over two peninsulas. Located along the Houston Ship Channel, visit this getaway to find marshes, ponds, biking trails, and a plethora of wildlife.



New York City, New York

  • Brooklyn Botanical Gardens - The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens allow New Yorkers to escape to another world. Leave the city behind and enter a serene natural space full of flower fields, lily ponds, and beautiful trees.
  • The Rockaways - The Rockaways are the perfect getaway for NYC folks who love the beach. This thin strip of islands south of Queens is often empty, a rarity for New York City attractions. Visit the Rockaways to sunbathe, swim, or even surf.
  • Bear Mountain - Located just 45 minutes from the city, this park features spots for visitors to picnic, swim, hike, and even boat. You can visit in the winter months to enjoy cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice-skating.



Chicago, Illinois

  • Morton Arboretum - This sprawling 1700 acre oasis is the place to go to find wooded trails, trees from across the globe, and peaceful walking trails. It’s the perfect escape for Chicago residents who need a break from the city.
  • Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool - This Lincoln Park getaway is the perfect spot to relax and refresh. Visit it to find a quiet natural space with a lily pool, gentle waterfall, and more.
  • Garfield Park Conservatory - Garfield Park’s conservatory is home to more tropic plants and animals than anywhere else in Chicago. You’ll find palm trees, cacti, and even koi fish in this Chicago-area nature escape.



Boston, Massachusetts

  • Boston Harbor Islands National Park Area - Take a short ferry ride to one of Boston’s many harbor islands. When you do, you’ll find scenic hiking trails, silent fishing spots, tide pools, and so much more to explore. It’s the perfect escape for the whole family.
  • Arnold Arboretum - This nature area is home to the popular Rhododendron hiking path, which features a log bridge and two small waterfalls. Visit the Arboretum to find countless species of trees, wildlife, and over 15,000 woody plants.
  • Blue Hills State Reservation - Just a few minutes from downtown Boston, the Blue Hills Reservation stretches 7,000 acres. Visitors can climb the reservation’s highest peak to see over the entire Boston metropolitan area. You’ll also find views of the South Shore, plenty of hiking spots, and even pools to take a dip in.