Maximize Your Sightseeing on a Weekend Getaway

Taking two weeks off to backpack through Europe sounds great, but nowadays more people are taking advantage of quick weekend getaways to relax and recharge. If you’re concerned you can’t make the most of a trip when it’s quick, think again. Weekends are just enough time to enjoy the new things local cities offer. Here are three tips to make sure you’re getting the most out of your trip.

Stay close: It’s 5 p.m. on Friday. To ensure you’re settled in just in time for a late dinner, choose a destination that’s fairly close. The more time you spend driving, the less time you’ll spend relaxing. A good rule of thumb is to pick a city that avoids rush-hour traffic, and look for a scenic, alternative drive. Also, consider checking out your local train schedules. Being on the railroad and away from traffic can get your getaway started sooner.

Saturday is for sightseeing: Start your day with an early breakfast and plan to start sightseeing by 9 a.m. Do your legwork ahead of time so you know exactly what you plan to see. If you’re in a big city, consider a sightseeing bus that allows you to hop on and off throughout the day. Pre-planned tours are a great way to ensure you won’t miss anything during the day.

Everything else: Now that you’ve seen the main sights, take advantage of Sunday as time for the extra nuances. It’s always fun to check out what each city is famous for. If you’re in Philadelphia, spend Sunday trying cheesesteaks for lunch. If you’re in New York, try to catch a matinee of a Broadway show.