Three Cultural Weekend Getaways in the U.S.

Many people looking for a weekend getaway are looking for somewhere they can escape to – somewhere they can travel without worrying about having to be ‘on’ all the time.

Not you. For you, a weekend getaway is an excuse to plunge in – to immerse yourself in every cultural opportunity that comes your way.

For people who love culture, there are three U.S. cities that are perfect for weekend breaks: filled with museums, ethnic cuisine, and interesting neighborhoods, these are places where you won’t be bored for one minute.

Read on for three great cultural weekend getaway destinations in the U.S.:

San Francisco

Filled with art and architecture and arguably the most beautiful natural urban setting in America, San Francisco has something for every kind of cultural traveler.

Museums: The two heavy hitters are the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the de Young Museum – but consider branching out and visit the Asian Art Museum, Walt Disney Family Museum, Cable Car Museum, or the Contemporary Jewish Museum.

Ethnic Dining: It’s all about Chinese food in San Francisco. Fora quick stop in between neighborhood hopping, consider J&A in the Outer Mission for cheap and delicious Cantonese food.

Neighborhood: Haight-Ashbury is a must-see destination for any visitor. While many American neighborhoods embrace their bohemian nature, nothing can come close to the Haight, spreading peace, love, and tie-dye since the 1960s.

Quintessential Experience: Visit Alcatraz on a stormy day and wonder what it was like as a prisoner to see your freedom in the distance without being able to touch it.

Washington, D.C.

With world-class museums and its position as the cradle of America, you’ll never be short of things to do in Washington, D.C.

Museums: The Smithsonian Institution system is one of the nation’s best collections of museums – and they’re all free! The Air &Space Museum and the American History Museum are two of the most popular ones – but consider the African Art Museum, the National Zoo or the Postal Museum for something more niche.

Ethnic Dining: D.C. is home to the largest Ethiopian community in America – and Ethiopian restaurants are excellent and everywhere. Zenebach Injera is a local favorite with delicious lamb awaze tibs.

Neighborhood: If you love architecture, check out Dupont Circle and Embassy Row. These areas of town are home to some of the nicest homes in all of Washington, D.C., as well as embassies, great shops, galleries and of course a vaunted history.

Quintessential Experience: Take tours of the U.S. Capitol and White House and see how many people you recognize from the news.

For more ideas on Washington, D.C., check out these D.C. family travel tips.

Boston

Thanks to a long history and excellent universities, Boston is at the top of the list of America’s most intellectual cities.

Museums: The Museum of Fine Arts is famous for its outstanding Egyptian collection, along with dozens of well-known paintings. The Museum of Science will give you a new spin on history.

Ethnic Dining: Allston is home to Boston’s best collection of ethnic restaurants, with Shanghainese and Korean restaurants side to side with Burmese and Salvadoran eateries. Try Ariana for delicious Afghan cuisine.

Neighborhood: The North End is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Boston and the former home of Paul Revere. Explore the local history and be sure to stop in one of the many delicious cafes for a cappuccino and cannoli.

Quintessential Experience: Walk the Freedom Trail from Boston Common to the Charlestown Navy Yard, taking in the history of the Revolutionary War all the way -- then take a commuter ferry back to downtown Boston.

 Where do you like to go for a quick cultural getaway?

Note: Available plans and coverages may have changed since this blog was published.