Looking for a quick escape from winter temps that won’t break the bank? Well luckily we’ve got you covered, with destinations that range from the adventurous (Denver) to the ultra glamorous (Miami), all with airfare that’ll set you back for under $300 roundtrip. We double-checked every destination for March flights, and these prices were still available at press time.
Let’s just take a quick moment before we dig in to address the coronavirus, or COVID19, which is reaching near-pandemic levels. We understand it’s a tricky time for travel, but unless you’re elderly or have a chronic condition that significantly lowers your immunity, you should still be totally fine to travel as long as it isn’t to China, Iran, Italy or South Korea (the CDC is recommending to stay away). Just use your common sense, OK? Exercise precaution while you’re in transit, making sure to always carry hand sanitizer and avoiding anyone who looks as if they may be sick.
You’re going to: Denver, Colorado
Roundtrip: As low as $53 on Spirit
Briefly: The Mile High City is the perfect place for an outdoorsy respite from everyday life. Come here for mountain biking and stay for the booming craft brewery scene.
Stay At: The ritzy Four Seasons if you want to stay in town, rated the number-one hotel by US News Travel, or the Omni Resort if you’re planning a trip to Boulder.
Stop By: A ball game at Coors Field, the RiNo Arts District to see some street art, a show at Red Rocks and of course some amazing breweries like Great Divide.
You’re going to: New Orleans, Louisiana
Roundtrip: As low as $188 on Spirit
Briefly: New Orleans is so much more than just Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras. It’s a city with a rich history, even richer food and charm to spare.
Stay At: Indulge at the luxurious Ritz-Carlton on Canal Street or get your hipster on at the Ace Hotel in the Warehouse District.
Stop By: You’d be remiss not to grab beignets at midnight from Café du Monde or a heaping plate of crawfish etouffee at dinner. Rum punch from Cane & Table is a must, and don’t leave without experiencing some live music at one of the city’s many music venues, like One Eyed Jack’s.
You’re going to: San Juan, Puerto Rico
Roundtrip: As low as $273 on United
Briefly: Colorful homes line the cobblestone streets of this vibrant city, with white sand beaches waiting just a stone’s throw away.
Stay At: You’ll love the character of the El Convento, built originally as a Carmelite convent in the mid-17th century. The modern La Concha Renaissance Resort is amazing, too, with three pools and a restaurant shaped like a seashell.
Stop By: Start your trip with a sun- and sand-filled visit to Condado Beach and grab some amazing street food like a tripleta, with marinated grilled cube steak, ham or pork, and chicken. At night check out the famed La Factoria, a local spot for dancing that also happens to be featured in Justin Bieber’s “Despacito” music video.
You’re going to: Los Angeles, California
Roundtrip: As low as $207 on Frontier
Briefly: Love or hate L.A., but there’s no debate that the sprawling city has plenty to offer tourists looking to soak up some sunshine. From the model-filled beaches of Malibu to hip Silver Lake and the bumping Sunset Blvd, it has something for everyone.
Stay At: The Beverly Hills Hotel for the quintessential L.A. experience, or the stylish Line Hotel in Koreatown.
Stop By: Get some shopping in on the iconic Rodeo Drive or at Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade before hitting the beach. Sushi at SUGARFISH is always a must, or hit Nobu in Malibu for celeb-spotting. Outdoor lovers will appreciate the hiking opportunities in Griffith Park and Topanga Canyon.
You’re going to: Las Vegas, Nevada
Roundtrip: As low as $142 on Spirit
Briefly: A trip to Sin City can be a sensory overload, sure, but it’s also an amazing place to get lost in. Come here with a little money to blow and you’ll be treated to the time of your life.
Stay At: Grand Las Vegas classics like the Bellagio or Caesar’s Palace are always a treat, or try the more understated luxury of the NoMad.
Stop By: Make sure to catch Absinthe, a highly rated and more debauched take on shows like Cirque du Soleil. If you’re not too hungover from the clubs and casinos, check out unique attractions like the Neon Museum or legally smoke weed in public at NuWu by day.
You’re going to: Miami, Florida
Roundtrip: As low as $197 on American
Briefly: A different sort of clubbing scene, Miami has recently built up just as much of a reputation for its art offerings as it has for its bottle service. Pair your trip with a good cigar and a cubano sandwich and call it a day.
Stay At: Nobody has been able to shut up about the Four Seasons Surf Club for good reason, or try to snag at a room closer to the action at Soho Beach House.
Stop By: Art lovers will want to stroll by the Wynwood Walls, an impressive collection of street art in a hip neighborhood. Little Havana is perfect for a relaxed afternoon of picking up a few cigars and watching the locals play games in the iconic Domino Park. Window shopping for homes and actual shopping for clothes is the name of the game in luxe Coral Gables.
You’re going to: Austin, Texas
Roundtrip: As low as $102 on Spirit
Briefly: Texas’s answers to Portland, Oregon, is the ideal laid-back destination for a weekend of good music, delicious food and outdoor activities galore.
Stay At: The Ella, a once-historic mansion, now-boutique hotel. For a more modern luxury experience you can’t go wrong with the W and its expansive pool.
Stop By: Go for a dip in the swimming holes of Barton Creek before grabbing a cold one at Blue Owl Brewing. Rock, country and jazz awaits at The Continental Club.
This article was featured in the InsideHook DC newsletter. Sign up now for more from the Beltway.