If boarding a plane to embark on your dream honeymoon [1] the day after you say "I do" [2] is simply not within the realm of possibilities, you're not alone. Many couples are pushing back their post-nuptial escapes for a number of reasons: they can't take the time off work, they want to wait until the weather is better, or they want to save a little more money [3] before jet-setting to the Hawaiian coast or Tuscan hills.
If it makes sense to temporarily put off your honeymoon for a bit, that doesn't mean you have to go back to real life right away. Min-moons are becoming increasingly popular with millennial couples; it's a romantic getaway [4] immediately following the big day that tends to be shorter, closer to home, and more affordable. Think of it as a honeymoon appetizer that gives you and your new spouse the chance to get away and celebrate. From charming coastal towns to America's most romantic cities, read on for 15 US destinations that are perfect minimoon material.
Sedona, Arizona
Enveloped on all sides by majestic red rock buttes, this dreamy desert town [5] is celebrated for its meditative powers and jaw-dropping natural beauty.
Where to stay: L'Auberge de Sedona [6], a secluded retreat and nature spa. Eat a candlelit dinner on the creek, pamper yourselves in the spa, or take your spouse on a private forest bathing session in the thick of the Arizona wilderness.
What to do: Bring your hiking shoes, as Sedona is peppered with stunning trails and famous view points at every turn (or explore the vistas by Jeep). With limited light pollution, the desert oasis is a stellar place to gaze at the star-studded night sky.
Telluride, Colourado
This former Victorian mountain town in the heart of the Colourado Rockies is so picture-perfect, you can actually feel the love in the air. From snow-capped peaks to historic architecture, there's majestic views at every turn.
Where to stay: The panoramic mountain views from the private residences at Lumière with Inspirato [7] will absolutely take your breath away.
What to do: Indulge in a one-of-kind gourmet dining experience at The Tunnel [8], a restaurant so intimate, there is only one table and you'll need to know the password to get in (don't worry, you're given the password once you make your reservation).
The Catskills, New York
Rich in wildlife and stunning scenery, the Catskills are a little slice of secluded paradise just a few hours north of New York City. Plus, if you're planning a Fall wedding, get ready for a visual treat. The heavily forested area boasts some of the most vivid and colourful Autumn foliage in the country.
Where to stay: The Woodstock Inn [9] is a total nature sanctuary, with many rooms featuring a fireplace and jetted tubs. Or, if you're craving more contemporary digs, check out The Roxbury. [10]
What to do: The Catskills are rich in hiking trails and scenic vantage points. Can't miss attractions include Kaaterskill Falls and Pratt Rock. The nearby Hudson Valley also boasts some of the best farm-to-table fare in the country.
Savannah, Georgia
This whimsical Southern city is highlighted by sweeping Live Oak trees draped with Spanish Moss, award-winning cuisine and cocktail culture, and statement architecture.
Where to stay: The Hamilton-Turner Inn [11] radiates with old-world Southern charm. The historic mansion features amenities like claw-foot tubs, exposed brick and fireplaces, and four-poster beds.
What to do: Take in the sights via horse-drawn carriage, stroll hand-in-hand under the sweeping Live Oaks, and spend hours relaxing with your love in the numerous green spaces and manicured parks.
Charleston, South Carolina
Cobblestone streets, Instagrammable sunsets, and fresh Southern air thick with the scent of magnolia trees — welcome to South Carolina's oldest city.
Where to stay: The French Quarter Inn [12] is an elegant boutique hotel that pampers its guests with complimentary champagne at check in, ultraswanky digs, and even loaner bikes to use to explore the city.
What to do: Pack a picnic to enjoy under the famous 400-year-old Angel Oak, glimpse at the storybook sunsets from a rooftop, cosy up on a horse-drawn carriage ride, and cruise the Charleston Harbor.
Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley is a fairy tale for romantics everywhere. Just imagine world-class wine, award-winning restaurants on almost every block, and sweeping views of the rolling California hills.
Where to stay: Calistoga Ranch [13] is enchanting; the luxury resort completely immerses its guests in the wild natural surroundings, allowing you to collect your own honey from local beehives and eggs from the resort's chicken coop.
What to do: Eat and drink! And when you're not, embark on a hot air balloon ride at dawn, indulge in a couples massage, or take a couples cooking class.
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts
The beauty of a Martha's Vineyard getaway lies in letting any schedules fall to the wayside and just enjoying the scenery, the quiet, and being with the person you love.
Where to stay: One of the many mansion-style boutique hotels with polished quarters and harbor views, like The Mansion House Inn [14] or The Christopher [15].
Things to do: Put your feet in the sand, watch the sunset, and go for a cosy, candlelit dinner for two. If you're up for an adventure, hit the open air in a vintage aircraft to take in the sights from the sky.
Cannon Beach, Oregon
You'll find nothing but mellow vibes and dramatic scenery in this tiny beach town along the stunning Oregon coast.
Where to stay: Schooner's Cove Inn [16] is a laid-back, beachfront property with ocean-facing indoor hot tubs and a huge grassy area to picnic, read a book, and watch the sunset over the hazy Pacific.
What to do: The area fosters relaxation; visit a local winery, get cosy after dark by a beach fire, or treat yourselves to an all-day spa excursion.
Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
This breezy beach city is styled by cliffs and rolling hills crashing into the coastline, an eclectic art and culinary scene that has garnered international acclaim, and historic, almost fairy tale-like cottages and architecture.
Where to stay: The Horizon Inn [17] is all about upping the romance ante. Per request, the staff will set up a candlelit room, complete with rose petals and champagne. You can also opt for an intimate dinner right on the shore.
What to do: The area is a hub of culture, shopping, and entertainment. Browse the boutiques, visit the plentiful art galleries and shake hands with the artists themselves, sip local wine, or navigate one of the scenic beachfront walks or hikes.
Lake Placid, New York
This vibrant village in northern New York is set in the Adirondack Mountains and is teeming with hiking trails and a host of other outdoor activities.
Where to stay: Lake Placid Lodge [18] blends rustic charm with modern luxury. The rooms are decorated with forest-inspired antiques (including huge hand-carved beds) and real stone fireplaces, perfecting for cuddling or roasting s'mores indoors!
What to do: Hike, horseback ride, go on a boating trip, rock climb, white water raft — the area's activity list is practically boundless.
Bar Harbor, Maine
The doorway to the famed Acadia National Park, this serene bayside town is an ideal place to slow down, relax, and spend uninterrupted quality time with the person you love.
Where to stay: The Harborside Hotel [19] is, as its name suggests, perched right on the water. The hotel and spa offers unobstructed views of Frenchman's Bay, a full-service spa, and spacious suites complete with rooftop patios and private hot tubs.
What to do: Explore the natural wonders of the nearby national park, wake up early to the watch the sun rise over the bay, or navigate one of the many hiking trails. Plus, while in Maine, it would be a crime to not try the lobster.
Aspen, Colourado
This quaint mountain town, with its jaw-dropping backdrop of the Colourado Mountains and multiple award-winning fine dining bistros, is the perfect setting for a quick romantic getaway.
Where to stay: Cosy up in Viceroy Snowmass [20] and treat yourselves to a couples massage at the 7,000 square foot spa.
What do do: Take in the vistas from the sky in a hot air balloon ride, take a gourmet cooking class, or paraglide to a secluded spot to have a picnic or champagne toast.
Great Smoky Mountains
Imagine escaping to a secluded mountain cabin nestled in the brush of the Tennessee forest and hibernating for a few days next to a roaring fire. It doesn't get much more romantic than that, does it?
Where to stay: The Blackberry Farm [21] has won countless awards for its unparalleled romance (think double-sided fireplaces and enormous soaking tubs), but if you want total seclusion, be sure to check out options on Airbnb [22] as well.
What to do: There's no shortage of outdoor activities, from hiking and kayaking to wildlife views and white water rafting. Or, if you want to do nothing more than sip champagne, make dinner for two, and watch the sunset over the treetops, you can totally do that, too!
Chicago, Illinois
If a big city-cation is more your speed, Chi-Town is perfect for lovers.
Where to stay: For the royal treatment, splurge at The Langham [23], a five-star hotel lauded for its majestic city views and granite bathtubs. For a more urban vibe, check out the industrial lofts at The Publishing House Bed and Breakfast [24] set in a historic 110-year-old building.
What to do: Sip cocktails with views of the sparkling skyline at one of the multiple rooftop bars and restaurants, take a boat tour on Lake Michigan, or take a cooking class at the Garfield Park Conservatory.
Leavenworth, Washington
This idyllic Bavarian town in the heart of the Cascade Mountains will make you feel like you're in a storybook. Sip wine and shop as you stroll the Alpine-style streets and be sure to stop for some traditional German grub!
Where to stay: There are plenty of charming B&B style inns in the area. The family-owned Enzian Inn [25] is set against a stunning mountain backdrop and will make you feel like you've just been transported across the Atlantic to the Bavarian Alps.
What to do: Cuddle up with your love on a horse-drawn carriage ride, get a taste of Washington wine country at one of the many tasting rooms, or, if you're feeling adventurous, go white water rafting or river tubing down the Wenatchee River.