As we age, travel can become more challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right planning and preparation, seniors can enjoy unforgettable weekend trips that cater to their needs and interests. In this article, we’ll explore 20 of the best weekend trips for seniors in the US, each offering accessibility, comfort, and a range of activities suitable for older travelers. From cultural hubs like New York City to relaxing beach towns like Santa Barbara, these destinations are sure to provide a memorable and enjoyable experience for seniors.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a vibrant city known for its stunning natural beauty, thriving arts scene, historic architecture, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere.
Asheville offers a balance of gentle outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The city itself is very walkable, with many attractions centrally located. The slower pace and picturesque surroundings make it ideal for relaxation.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Biltmore Estate: Explore America’s largest home, with accessible tours of the mansion, gardens (some paved paths), and Antler Hill Village & Winery. Wheelchairs are available for rent.
- Blue Ridge Parkway: Enjoy scenic drives with numerous overlooks for breathtaking views. Many overlooks have accessible parking and paved paths.
- Downtown Asheville: Stroll through art galleries, unique boutiques, and enjoy diverse culinary options. Consider a trolley tour for an easy way to see the sights.
- Botanical Gardens at Asheville: Offers gentle walking paths and beautiful plant collections.
- Recommended accommodations: Look for hotels near downtown with elevators and accessible rooms. The Omni Grove Park Inn offers historic charm with modern amenities, including accessible rooms and a renowned spa. Many B&Bs also cater to specific needs.
- Any available discounts or packages: Some attractions, like the Biltmore Estate, offer senior discounts on tickets. Many hotels provide AAA or AARP discounts.
2. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a historic port city celebrated for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, charming waterfront, and deep Southern hospitality.
Its flat terrain makes walking tours enjoyable, and many historical sites are easily accessible. The city exudes a relaxed pace perfect for unwinding.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Historic Charleston Walking Tours or Carriage Tours: A leisurely way to see the city’s architectural gems and learn about its past. Many carriage tours are accessible.
- Waterfront Park: Enjoy views of the harbor and the iconic Pineapple Fountain. The park has paved, flat pathways.
- Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens: Explore one of America’s oldest working plantations. Many areas are accessible, and trolley tours are available.
- Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge Pedestrian Path: A beautiful, flat path offering panoramic views of the city and harbor.
- Recommended accommodations: The Spectator Hotel offers luxury and a central location. Many historic inns and hotels offer ground-floor rooms or elevators for accessibility.
- Any available discounts or packages: Senior discounts are often available for tours and attractions. Look for AAA/AARP rates at hotels.
3. San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio is a city rich in history and culture, blending Spanish colonial heritage with vibrant Texan charm, famously known for the Alamo and its picturesque Riverwalk.
The Riverwalk provides a flat, scenic environment for strolling, and many attractions are within easy reach. The city offers a variety of gentle boat tours and cultural experiences.
- Key attractions and activities:
- The Alamo: Explore this historic mission and fortress at your own pace. The grounds are generally accessible.
- San Antonio Riverwalk: Enjoy a leisurely boat cruise or a stroll along the paved pathways. Many restaurants and shops line the Riverwalk.
- Mission San Jose: Part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, offering a glimpse into colonial life. The missions are generally accessible.
- Market Square (El Mercado): Immerse yourself in Mexican culture, shop for crafts, and enjoy authentic food.
- Recommended accommodations: Hotels along the Riverwalk, such as the Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk, often have excellent accessibility features and are centrally located.
- Any available discounts or packages: Senior discounts are frequently offered for attractions and tours. Some hotels may provide special senior rates.
Related: The 12 Best San Antonio tours for seniors
4. Santa Fe, New Mexico
Santa Fe is a city steeped in Native American and Spanish traditions, renowned for its distinctive adobe architecture, vibrant arts scene, and stunning high-desert landscape.
The city’s relaxed pace and artistic atmosphere are calming. Many galleries, museums, and historic sites are clustered together, making exploration easy.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Canyon Road: Stroll through this historic art district, browse numerous galleries. Many galleries are accessible.
- Santa Fe Plaza: The historic heart of the city, perfect for people-watching, shopping, and enjoying local culture. Flat and walkable.
- Georgia O’Keeffe Museum: Explore the iconic artist’s works in an accessible museum setting.
- Loretto Chapel: Famous for its “miraculous staircase,” offering a unique architectural wonder.
- Recommended accommodations: The Inn and Spa at Loretto offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities with accessible rooms. Many boutique hotels in the Railyard District also offer comfort and accessibility.
- Any available discounts or packages: Look for senior rates at museums and hotels. The City of Santa Fe’s Senior Services offers transportation assistance for residents, which might be helpful for longer stays.
5. St. Augustine, Florida
As the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement, St. Augustine boasts a rich history, charming Spanish colonial architecture, and beautiful beaches.
Its relatively flat terrain and compact historic district make it easy to navigate. Trolley tours provide a convenient way to see the sights without extensive walking.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: Explore the oldest masonry fort in the U.S. While some areas have stairs, significant portions are accessible.
- Historic Downtown: Wander through pedestrian-friendly streets, discover unique shops, and enjoy historic sites.
- St. Augustine Beach: Enjoy a relaxing day by the ocean. Some areas offer beach wheelchairs.
- Old Town Trolley Tours: A popular hop-on, hop-off tour that allows for easy sightseeing and transportation between attractions. Many trolleys are ADA compliant.
- Recommended accommodations: The Casa Monica Resort & Spa offers historic elegance and modern comforts, including accessible rooms. Many bed and breakfasts in the historic district also provide accessible options.
- Any available discounts or packages: Senior discounts are common for attractions and tours. The St. Johns County Council on Aging offers transportation services, including paratransit, for seniors, which could be useful for exploring beyond the immediate downtown.
6. Bar Harbor, Maine
Gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a charming coastal town known for its dramatic rocky coastline, picturesque harbor, and fresh seafood.
Offers stunning natural beauty with accessible options for enjoying it. The town itself is walkable, and Acadia National Park has many accessible features.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Acadia National Park: Enjoy scenic drives along Park Loop Road, stopping at accessible viewpoints like Cadillac Mountain (summit accessible by car). The park offers free or discounted America the Beautiful Passes for seniors.
- Carriage Roads: Experience a portion of the historic carriage roads via horse-drawn carriage tours, offering a gentle way to explore the park.
- Bar Harbor Shore Path: A relatively flat and easy walking path along the waterfront, offering beautiful views.
- Whale Watching Tours: Many boat tours depart from Bar Harbor, offering a relaxing way to see marine wildlife. Inquire about accessibility when booking.
- Recommended accommodations: The Bar Harbor Inn & Spa offers waterfront views and accessible rooms. Many hotels and inns in town are designed to be comfortable and easily navigable.
- Any available discounts or packages: Senior Passes are available for Acadia National Park. Look for AARP/AAA discounts at local hotels.
Related: The 15 Best Historic Travel Spots for Seniors in the USA
7. Mackinac Island, Michigan
A unique island retreat where cars are banned, offering a step back in time with horse-drawn carriages, historic forts, and stunning Victorian architecture.
The absence of cars creates a peaceful and safe environment. Horse-drawn carriage tours are the primary mode of transportation, making sightseeing effortless.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Grand Hotel: Experience the grandeur of this iconic hotel, known for its extensive porch and historic charm. Accessible tours and amenities are available.
- Horse-drawn Carriage Tours: The most popular way to see the island’s highlights, including Arch Rock and the Surrey Hill Museum.
- Fort Mackinac: Explore the historic fort, which offers shuttle services and some accessible pathways.
- Shopping and Dining Downtown: Enjoy strolling through the charming streets, sampling famous fudge.
- Recommended accommodations: The Grand Hotel offers a unique, all-inclusive “Grand Experience” package for seniors (50+), including accommodations, meals, and activities. Other inns and B&Bs also cater to various needs.
- Any available discounts or packages: The “Grand Experience” package at the Grand Hotel is specifically designed for seniors and includes many amenities. Ferry services to the island may also offer senior discounts.
8. Palm Springs, California
A desert oasis known for its mid-century modern architecture, stunning mountain backdrops, and a relaxed, resort-like atmosphere.
Palm Springs offers a warm climate, numerous accessible resorts, and a focus on relaxation and wellness. Many attractions are designed for easy enjoyment.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: Enjoy breathtaking views as you ascend to the San Jacinto Mountains. The tram is fully accessible, and the mountain station offers paved pathways.
- Living Desert Zoo and Gardens: Explore desert flora and fauna on mostly flat, paved pathways. Wheelchairs are available for rent.
- Architectural Bus Tours: Learn about the city’s unique mid-century modern architecture from the comfort of a bus.
- Relaxation by the Pool: Many resorts feature beautiful, accessible pools.
- Recommended accommodations: Numerous resorts cater to seniors, offering accessible rooms, walk-in showers, and extensive amenities. Look for AARP discounts at hotels like the Hilton Vacation Club Palm Canyon, Palm Springs, or Palm Mountain Resort and Spa.
- Any available discounts or packages: Many hotels and attractions offer AARP or senior discounts.
9. Newport, Rhode Island
A picturesque coastal city famous for its Gilded Age mansions, rich maritime history, and scenic ocean drives.
Offers a blend of history, culture, and coastal beauty. Many mansions offer accessible tours, and the Cliff Walk provides a gentle scenic stroll.
- Key attractions and activities:
- The Newport Mansions: Explore opulent estates like The Breakers and Marble House. Many offer accessible entrances, elevators, and ground-floor tours. Trolley tours combine mansion visits with city sightseeing, and some trolleys are ADA compliant.
- Cliff Walk: Enjoy stunning ocean views on this scenic path. While some sections are rugged, easier, paved portions are available near the mansions.
- Thames Street: Stroll through the charming downtown area with shops and restaurants.
- Harbor Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour of Newport Harbor, seeing historic landmarks from the water. Inquire about accessibility when booking.
- Recommended accommodations: The Newport Marriott offers modern amenities and accessible rooms near the waterfront. Many charming inns also offer ground-floor options.
- Any available discounts or packages: Viking Tours Newport offers senior discounts on their trolley tours. Many hotels provide AARP/AAA discounts.
10. Key West, Florida
The southernmost point of the continental U.S., Key West, is a vibrant island paradise known for its laid-back atmosphere, colorful architecture, and spectacular sunsets.
Its small size makes it easily walkable or navigable by a convenient “Conch Tour Train.” The relaxed pace and tropical climate are very appealing.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Duval Street: Stroll this iconic street, known for its shops, restaurants, and lively atmosphere.
- Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum: Explore the author’s historic home and meet the famous six-toed cats. Grounds are generally accessible, though some stairs exist in the house.
- Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square: Enjoy street performers and breathtaking sunsets. Accessible viewing areas are available.
- Conch Tour Train or Old Town Trolley: A fantastic way to see the island’s highlights with minimal walking. Both often have accessible options.
- Recommended accommodations: Many hotels and guesthouses offer ground-floor rooms and accessible features. The Southernmost Beach Resort provides a relaxing beachfront experience.
- Any available discounts or packages: Key West Express, a ferry service, offers senior discounts on fares. Many tours and attractions may also have senior rates.
11. Savannah, Georgia
A city of unparalleled Southern charm, Savannah is famous for its historic squares, Spanish moss-draped oak trees, and antebellum architecture.
Its flat layout and numerous public squares make it very walkable. Trolley tours offer an easy way to explore the historic district.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Historic Squares: Wander through the 22 picturesque squares, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere. Most squares have paved pathways.
- River Street: Explore the lively waterfront with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Accessible ramps connect the bluff to River Street.
- Trolley Tours: Hop-on, hop-off tours provide a comprehensive and comfortable way to see the city’s highlights. Many are ADA compliant.
- Mercer Williams House Museum: A beautiful historic home (check for accessibility if stairs are a concern).
- Recommended accommodations: The DeSoto Savannah offers a central location with modern amenities and accessible rooms. Many historic inns also strive for accessibility.
- Any available discounts or packages: Senior discounts are common for trolley tours and some historic house museums. The Sowega Council on Aging often plans trips for seniors, which may offer packages.
12. Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Nestled at the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg is a mountain resort town offering stunning scenery, family-friendly attractions, and Appalachian charm.
Provides access to beautiful natural landscapes with various levels of activity, from scenic drives to gentle walks. Many attractions are geared towards comfortable enjoyment.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park: Enjoy scenic drives like Newfound Gap Road. Accessible viewpoints and short, paved walking paths (e.g., Gatlinburg Trail) are available.
- Ober Gatlinburg Aerial Tramway: Enjoy panoramic views on the ride up to the amusement park and ski area. The tram is accessible.
- Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies: A fascinating and accessible indoor attraction.
- Arts & Crafts Community: Explore unique artisan shops along an 8-mile loop (drive or consider a trolley).
- Recommended accommodations: Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa offers senior citizen discounts (50+) and accessible rooms. Many hotels and cabins in the area cater to various needs.
- Any available discounts or packages: Westgate Smoky Mountain Resort & Spa offers up to 10% off for seniors 50 and older. National Park Passes for seniors are available for the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
13. Williamsburg, Virginia
A living history museum, Colonial Williamsburg offers an immersive journey into 18th-century America, complete with historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and traditional crafts.
The historical focus is captivating, and the pace can be set by individual preference. The area is generally flat, and transportation within Colonial Williamsburg is provided.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Colonial Williamsburg: Explore the historic area at your own pace. Wheelchairs are available for rent, and accessible shuttles transport visitors between sites. Many buildings have accessible entrances or alternative viewing options.
- Jamestown Settlement & Yorktown Victory Center: Learn about early colonial life and the Revolutionary War in these accessible museums.
- Busch Gardens Williamsburg (seasonal): While a theme park, it offers gentler shows and rides, and has accessibility services.
- Shopping at Merchants Square: Enjoy browsing shops and dining in a charming historical setting.
- Recommended accommodations: The Colonial Williamsburg hotels (e.g., Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge) offer historical charm with modern accessibility features. Many chain hotels in the vicinity also cater to seniors needs.
- Any available discounts or packages: Colonial Williamsburg offers senior discounts on admission tickets. Look for hotel packages that include attraction passes.
14. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
A popular coastal destination known for its wide sandy beaches, numerous golf courses, and a vast array of entertainment options.
Offers a relaxing beach environment with plenty of accessible dining and entertainment. The flat coastal terrain makes walking easy.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade: Enjoy a stroll along the oceanfront, with accessible ramps and benches.
- Broadway at the Beach: An entertainment complex with shops, restaurants, and attractions, designed for easy navigation.
- Miniature Golf: A fun and low-impact activity available at numerous courses.
- Shows and Entertainment: Enjoy various live performances at accessible theaters.
- Recommended accommodations: Many oceanfront resorts offer accessible rooms, elevators, and direct beach access. Look for properties with amenities like indoor pools and on-site dining.
- Any available discounts or packages: Many hotels and attractions in Myrtle Beach offer senior discounts. Some local recreation commissions (like Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission) organize senior trips to Myrtle Beach.
15. Lake Placid, New York
Nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a charming village famous for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, offering stunning natural beauty, and outdoor activities.
Provides serene mountain scenery with accessible viewing points and gentle outdoor pursuits. The village itself is compact and walkable.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Olympic Sites: Visit the Olympic Jumping Complex (take the elevator to the top for views), the Olympic Museum, and the Herb Brooks Arena. Most sites offer accessibility.
- Mirror Lake Loop: Enjoy a relatively flat, paved walking path around Mirror Lake with beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
- Lake Placid Boat Tours: A relaxing way to see the lake and learn about the area’s history. Inquire about accessibility when booking.
- High Falls Gorge: A privately owned nature park with accessible pathways to view stunning waterfalls (some sections have stairs, but alternative viewpoints are available).
- Recommended accommodations: The Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort offers lake views and accessible rooms. Many hotels in the village provide comfort and convenience.
- Any available discounts or packages: Some attractions may offer senior discounts. Essex County Public Transit provides transportation options, and some services may cater to seniors.
16. San Diego, California
A sunny Southern California city known for its beautiful beaches, world-class attractions, vibrant culture, and pleasant year-round climate.
San Diego offers a wide range of accessible activities, from relaxed beach visits to cultural institutions. The climate is mild and comfortable.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Balboa Park: Home to numerous museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. Many museums are accessible, and the park offers free shuttle services.
- San Diego Zoo: One of the world’s premier zoos, with accessible pathways, shuttle buses, and a Skyfari aerial tram.
- Coronado Island: Easily accessible via bridge, offering beautiful beaches (some with beach wheelchairs) and charming shops.
- USS Midway Museum: Explore this historic aircraft carrier. While a large vessel, much of it is accessible via elevators.
- Recommended accommodations: Many hotels in San Diego, especially those in the Gaslamp Quarter or near Balboa Park, offer excellent accessibility features.
- Any available discounts or packages: Senior discounts are widely available for attractions, museums, and transportation services. Organizations like FACT (Facilitating Access to Coordinated Transportation) offer rides for seniors.
17. Boston, Massachusetts
A city steeped in American history, Boston offers a captivating blend of colonial charm and modern vibrancy, with iconic landmarks and world-class museums.
Many historical sites are within walking distance or accessible via public transportation. The city offers diverse cultural experiences and excellent accessibility initiatives.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Freedom Trail: Follow the red brick line to historic sites. While on a walk, many sites are close together, and hop-on, hop-off trolleys are available and often accessible.
- Museum of Fine Arts Boston: Explore extensive collections in an accessible environment.
- Boston Common and Public Garden: Enjoy strolls through these beautiful urban parks. Consider a Swan Boat ride (accessible boarding available).
- New England Aquarium: A fascinating indoor attraction with accessible pathways.
- Recommended accommodations: Hotels in downtown Boston or the Back Bay area generally offer good accessibility. The Omni Parker House, while historic, provides modern amenities.
- Any available discounts or packages: Many museums and attractions offer senior discounts. Boston.gov’s Age Strong Commission provides information on transportation options for older adults, including shuttle services and taxi coupons.
18. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia is a city rich in history, art, and vibrant neighborhoods, offering a journey through the nation’s past.
Its compact historic district is highly walkable, and many iconic sites are free to visit. Public transportation offers excellent accessibility.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Independence Hall & Liberty Bell: Experience iconic symbols of American freedom. Reservations are recommended. The sites are generally accessible.
- Reading Terminal Market: A bustling indoor market with diverse food vendors and accessible pathways.
- Philadelphia Museum of Art: Explore vast art collections. The famous “Rocky Steps” are iconic, but an accessible entrance is available.
- Betsy Ross House: Visit the historic home (check for accessibility if stairs are a concern).
- Recommended accommodations: Hotels in the Historic District or Center City provide central access and modern amenities, including accessible rooms.
- Any available discounts or packages: SEPTA offers free transit for seniors (65+) on all fixed transit routes within Pennsylvania. Many museums and attractions offer senior discounts.
19. Sedona, Arizona
Renowned for its stunning red rock formations, Sedona is a spiritual and artistic hub offering breathtaking natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere.
Focuses on scenic beauty and gentle outdoor activities. Many viewpoints are accessible by car, and there are easy walking trails.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Scenic Drives: Take a leisurely drive along Airport Mesa Road or Red Rock Scenic Byway (SR 179) to various overlooks for panoramic views.
- Chapel of the Holy Cross: An architectural marvel built into the red rocks, offering inspiring views (accessible via a paved, sloped path and ramp).
- Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village: Stroll through this charming village inspired by a traditional Mexican village, featuring art galleries and unique shops. The pathways are generally flat.
- Gentle Hiking Trails: Explore easy, relatively flat trails like the Baldwin Trail or Bell Rock Pathway for closer views of the red rocks.
- Recommended accommodations: Many resorts in Sedona offer accessible rooms and amenities, often with stunning views. Consider properties like the Enchantment Resort or L’Auberge de Sedona.
- Any available discounts or packages: Some local tour operators may offer senior discounts.
Related: Sedona’s hidden gems: 22 Secluded Spots You Can’t Miss
20. Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim), Arizona
One of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking vistas of its immense, colorful canyon. The South Rim is the most accessible.
Offers incredible natural beauty with excellent accessibility for viewing. The park provides shuttle services, reducing the need for extensive walking.
- Key attractions and activities:
- Mather Point, Yavapai Point, Grandview Point, and Lipan Point: Many viewpoints along the South Rim are easily accessible by paved paths or via the park’s free, accessible shuttle buses.
- Rim Trail: A paved, relatively flat section of the trail runs for miles along the South Rim, offering continuous stunning views. Walk as much or as little as you like.
- Grand Canyon Railway: Enjoy a historic train ride from Williams, AZ, directly to the South Rim, offering a comfortable and scenic journey. The railway prioritizes accessibility.
- Desert View Watchtower: Climb the accessible first level for views, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from the base.
- Recommended accommodations: Lodges along the South Rim (e.g., El Tovar, Bright Angel Lodge, Maswik Lodge) offer accessible rooms and are close to the rim. Book well in advance.
- Any available discounts or packages: The America the Beautiful Senior Pass (a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens 62+) provides access to all national parks and federal recreational lands. Grand Canyon Railway offers accessibility services and may have packages.
Conclusion
Embarking on a weekend trip in your senior years doesn’t have to be a daunting task. The United States offers a wealth of destinations perfectly suited for a relaxing, enriching, and accessible getaway. From the historic charm of Charleston and Williamsburg to the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon and Acadia, each of these 20 recommendations provides unique experiences tailored to comfort and enjoyment. By choosing destinations with senior-friendly amenities, accessible attractions, and a slower pace, you can ensure a memorable and refreshing escape. So pack your bags, take advantage of those well-deserved senior discounts, and embark on your next great American adventure!