A road trip from home is pretty cool – especially when you find getaways that are close enough that you don’t have to fill up along the way! We’ve scoured the map to find some great towns and attractions within a few hours’ drive of 10 major metropolitan areas.
Whether you’re in the mood for mountains, waterfronts, history, or roadside oddities, these spots have something for everyone!
From Atlanta | Helen, Georgia
Helen is more proof that you don’t have to travel across the ocean to get a taste of Alpine charm. This old logging town, just 90 miles northeast of Atlanta, underwent a complete transformation in the 1960s. The town was struggling economically, and local businessmen decided to adopt a Bavarian theme to increase tourism. They even brought in craftsmen from Germany to make sure everything felt authentic.
Helen’s Oktoberfest isn’t just a weekend thing, but a months-long party from September to November with real German music, food, and beer. The Festhalle is the place to be, with live polka bands, traditional dancing, and plenty of bratwurst, sauerkraut, and imported German beers to go around. If you can’t make it to Oktoberfest, there are plenty of other events throughout the year, like the Spring Festival and Christmas markets.
The Chattahoochee River runs right through downtown Helen and is just the spot for a leisurely float on a hot summer day. Rent your gear from a place like Cool River Tubing, and they’ll take care of the rest. For something a bit more adventurous, try whitewater rafting on the nearby Chattooga River.
If you’re up for a hike, don’t miss Anna Ruby Falls, just a few miles away in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest. The easy 0.4-mile walk is more than worth it for the beautiful double waterfall that awaits you at the end. You can also explore parts of the Appalachian Trail from there.
Nearby KOAs:
Hiawassee KOA Holiday
Murphy / Peace Valley KOA Holiday
Blue Ridge / Toccoa River KOA Holiday
Anderson / Lake Hartwell KOA Holiday
From Ottawa, Ontario (Canada) | Kingston, Ontario
Kingston combines rich history with stunning Thousand Islands scenery, creating a perfect one-tank escape just 120 miles from Canada’s capital. The Limestone City sits at the confluence of Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River, and the Cataraqui River, offering a unique blend of 19th-century architecture, waterfront recreation, and cultural attractions.
Kingston’s position at the entrance to Thousand Islands makes it an ideal base for exploring this world-renowned boating and scenic area. Numerous tour operators offer cruises through the islands, ranging from short sightseeing trips to full-day excursions that include stops at Boldt Castle and other historic sites.
Market Square serves as the heart of the action downtown, hosting farmers’ markets, festivals, and outdoor concerts throughout the year. The area’s walkability makes it perfect for leisurely exploration, with many attractions within easy strolling distance of each other.
Fort Henry National Historic Site dominates the city’s skyline and provides fascinating insights into Canadian military history. This massive 19th-century fortress offers guided tours, historical reenactments, and the famous Fort Henry Guard performances during the summer months. Queen’s University’s beautiful limestone campus is worth exploring for its historic architecture, scenic lakefront location, and museums like the Agnes Etherington Art Centre.
Kingston’s waterfront areas feature a scenic pathway perfect for walking, cycling, or jogging with views of Lake Ontario and the harbor. Confederation Park hosts outdoor concerts and festivals during warmer months, while the adjacent ferry terminal provides service to Wolfe Island, Ontario’s largest freshwater island, known for its relaxed pace and excellent cycling opportunities.
Nearby KOAs:
1000 Islands / Kingston KOA Holiday
1000 Islands / Ivy Lea KOA Holiday
1000 Islands / Mallorytown KOA Holiday
Natural Bridge / Watertown (NY) KOA Journey
Cardinal / Ottawa South KOA Holiday
From San Antonio | Port Aransas, Texas
Port Aransas, affectionately known as “Port A” by locals, delivers authentic Texas Gulf Coast charm without the large-scale commercial development that’s overtaken many coastal destinations. This barrier island fishing village, just 150 miles southeast of San Antonio, maintains its laid-back atmosphere while offering world-class fishing, pristine beaches, and enough character to make it feel like a genuine discovery rather than a tourist trap.
The town’s fishing reputation is legendary among Texas anglers. Port Aransas sits at the mouth of the Corpus Christi Ship Channel, creating unique fishing opportunities where bay, nearshore, and deep-sea species converge. The area offers everything from wade fishing for speckled trout and redfish in the shallow bays to deep-sea charter trips targeting marlin, mahi-mahi, and red snapper. The University of Texas Marine Science Institute’s pier provides excellent fishing access for visitors without boats, while numerous charter services cater to all experience levels.
Mustang Island State Park, which encompasses much of the area around Port Aransas, features 3,954 acres of pristine coastline with five miles of beach frontage. The park offers excellent surf fishing, beachcombing, and bird watching opportunities.
The town’s compact downtown area centers around several blocks of shops, restaurants, and bars that embrace the casual beach atmosphere. For families, the area offers go-kart tracks, mini golf, and beach equipment rentals. The relatively calm bay waters of the island’s back side provide safe swimming and kayaking opportunities for children, while the Gulf side offers traditional beach activities and surf fishing lessons.
Nearby KOAs:
Rockport / Corpus Christi KOA Journey
Port Lavaca / Matagorda Bay KOA Holiday
From Seattle | Leavenworth, Washington
Head east of Seattle and you’ll find Leavenworth a little over two hours away. This former railroad town transformed itself in the 1960s into a charming Bavarian-themed mountain village. Nestled in the Cascade Mountains along the Wenatchee River, Leavenworth offers endless year-round outdoor adventures, combined with authentic German culture and cuisine.
Every building in downtown Leavenworth appears to have been plucked from Germany – think wooden balconies, colorful painted walls, and flower boxes bursting with color in the summer. Oktoberfest is a huge deal here, running from late September to early October, and it’s as authentic as it gets – live polka music, traditional dancing, delicious German cuisine, and beer served in authentic steins.
The rest of the year, you can still get a taste of Germany at restaurants like Munchen Haus and Cafe Mozart. And if you’re looking for something truly unique, check out the Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum, which has over 6,000 nutcrackers from all over the world.
Outdoor enthusiasts will love the Wenatchee River, which boasts some of the world’s best whitewater rafting and kayaking. Local outfitters offer guided trips for all skill levels. The surrounding mountains have hundreds of miles of hiking trails, from leisurely strolls to serious climbs.
Nearby KOAs:
Leavenworth / Pine Village KOA Holiday
Ellensburg KOA Journey
Winthrop / North Cascades National Park KOA Holiday
From Madison | Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Just a short drive north of Madison, the Wisconsin Dells is a perfect mix of natural beauty and family-friendly fun. Although dubbed the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” the Dells has a lot more to offer than just water slides and pools!
One of the area’s top attractions is the Wisconsin River gorge, carved out by glacial floods thousands of years ago. Take a boat tour through the Upper or Lower Dells to see some amazing sandstone formations, caves, and unique rock formations like Devil’s Elbow and Romance Cliff. These tours run from spring to fall, and you can choose from narrated sightseeing trips or faster-paced jet boat adventures.
But when it comes to waterparks, the Dells are indeed hard to beat. Noah’s Ark is America’s largest waterpark, with over 50 attractions, including the Black Anaconda – a massive water coaster. And if the weather’s bad, you can still have fun at indoor waterparks like Kalahari Resort and Great Wolf Lodge.
Downtown Wisconsin Dells is a fun destination in its own right, with attractions like the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory (a hands-on science center associated with Ripley’s). For a taste of local flavor, be sure to visit the Wisconsin Cheese Mart for some authentic Wisconsin cheese curds and the House of Gerhard for traditional German cuisine.
Hikers will want to head to Devil’s Lake State Park, just 30 minutes south. The park has a beautiful lake surrounded by 500-foot quartzite bluffs, with trails for all skill levels. The views from the bluffs are especially stunning during fall color season.
Nearby KOAs:
Wisconsin Dells KOA Holiday
Oakdale KOA Journey
Milton KOA Holiday
From Minneapolis | Stillwater, Minnesota
Stillwater, the “Birthplace of Minnesota,” is a charming town along the St. Croix River, just 25 miles from Minneapolis. If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the Twin Cities, Stillwater‘s got the perfect blend of river activities, historic architecture, and small-town vibes!
Main Street, which runs along the river, is a goldmine for antique lovers. You’ll find dozens of shops in beautiful 19th-century buildings that cater to nearly every taste and budget, from high-end antiques to vintage treasures.
Take a cruise on the St. Croix River to learn about the area’s logging history, or rent a canoe or kayak and explore on your own. The river’s also great for fishing, with plenty of walleye, bass, and northern pike.
Are you a history lover? Visit the Historic Warden’s House Museum to learn more about the area’s logging history and old territorial prison. Families will want to stop by Teddy Bear Park for playgrounds, picnic areas, and access to the river.
Interstate State Park, where the St. Croix and Minnesota rivers converge, offers stunning basalt cliffs, glacial potholes, and scenic hiking trails for those wanting more outdoor time.
Nearby KOAs:
Minneapolis Southwest KOA Journey
Minneapolis Northwest KOA Journey
From Boston | North Conway, New Hampshire
Just three hours north of Boston, North Conway combines tax-free shopping and stunning natural beauty in New Hampshire’s White Mountains. Every season brings something new in this charming small town, from stunning fall foliage to winter skiing and summer hiking.
Nestled in the Mount Washington Valley, North Conway is surrounded by some of the biggest mountains in New England. Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast at 6,288 feet, towers over the valley. To reach the top, take the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway or drive up the Auto Road (in good weather).
Since New Hampshire doesn’t have sales tax, shopping is a big deal. The Settlers’ Green Outlet Village and other retail centers offer big-name brands at lower prices. Get a jump start on your Christmas shopping list here (or treat yourself – we won’t tell!).
Those looking for some outdoor time have endless options, with hundreds of miles of hiking trails. Check out Diana’s Baths, a series of waterfalls at the end of a 1.2-mile hike. More experienced hikers can tackle Mount Monadnock for fantastic views.
If traveling with children, don’t miss Storyland Park! This fairy-tale-themed park features rides, shows, and attractions inspired by classic children’s stories. It’s open from late spring to early fall. The Conway Scenic Railroad is also a lot of fun, with themed train rides through the beautiful mountains.
When winter hits, the area turns into a world-class ski destination. Cranmore Mountain Resort offers skiing and snowboarding for all levels, and the surrounding mountains are great for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Nearby KOAs:
Strafford / Lake Winnepesaukee South KOA Holiday
Chocorua KOA Holiday
Lincoln / Woodstock KOA Holiday
From New York City | Hudson, NY
Hudson will make you feel like you’re a world away from Manhattan, even though it’s just a two-hour drive north. This old whaling port on the Hudson River has been transformed into a treasure trove for antique fans and foodies alike.
Start your visit on Warren Street, the main drag, which boasts one of the largest collections of antique shops in the Northeast. You could easily spend a whole day browsing through Victorian-era furniture, mid-century modern pieces, and everything in between. While there, grab a bite at one of the town’s excellent restaurants for fresh food and creative cocktails.
Culture lovers will have a blast at Hudson Hall, which hosts concerts, plays, and art exhibits in a beautifully restored 1855 opera house. The Basilica Hudson, a former industrial space transformed into an arts venue, is another excellent spot to experience cutting-edge performances and installations that draw visitors from around the world.
Nature lovers shouldn’t miss the Olana State Historic Site, once the home of the famous painter Frederic Edwin Church. This Persian-inspired castle is now open for guided tours, and the views of the Hudson Valley are just stunning. Its grounds are perfect for a picnic or photo shoot, especially when the leaves change in the fall.
Nearby KOAs:
Catskill Mountains / Gilboa KOA Holiday
New York City North / Newburgh KOA Holiday
From Denver | Estes Park, Colorado
Estes Park is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park, but don’t let that be the only reason you visit! At an elevation of 7,522 feet, it’s about 70 miles northwest of Denver, and the mountain views are simply stunning – but there’s also plenty of activities to keep you busy for days.
Rocky Mountain National Park is a major draw, with 415 square miles of hiking trails, alpine lakes, and peaks that’ll take your breath away. Bear Lake and Emerald Lake are two popular hikes that offer great views. If you’re not up for a hike, Trail Ridge Road is one of the highest paved roads in America and has incredible mountain scenery.
Downtown Estes Park is a fun, eclectic mix of outdoor gear shops, art galleries, taffy shops, and restaurants. The historic Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s “The Shining,” is a must-visit even just for lunch or a drink. And if you’re feeling brave, you can spend the night and soak up some spooky atmosphere!
Estes Park is also a wildlife lover’s paradise, especially during the fall when the elk come out in force. You might hear their unusual bugling calls echoing through the valley. The town celebrates with an annual Elk Fest, featuring educational programs, live music, and local crafts.
Families will love the Estes Park Aerial Tramway, which offers a scenic ride up Prospect Mountain for panoramic views of the Continental Divide. And if you’re looking for something a bit more action-packed, there’s mini golf, go-karts, and an alpine slide to keep you entertained.
Nearby KOAs:
Estes Park / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Holiday
Grand Lake / Rocky Mountain National Park KOA Journey
Fort Collins / Lakeside KOA Holiday
From Los Angeles | Solvang, California
Ditch the chaos of L.A. for the quaint charm of Solvang, a slice of Scandinavian heaven in California’s Santa Ynez Valley, about 150 miles northwest of the city. This isn’t just some cheesy tourist trap with windmills – it’s the real deal, with wine, food, and quirky attractions galore!
Solvang’s Danish roots are genuine. Founded by Danish immigrants in 1911, the town proudly keeps its traditions alive while welcoming tourists. Start at the Hans Christian Andersen Museum, then head downtown, where traditional Danish buildings house everything from authentic bakeries to trendy wine tasting rooms.
Food and wine are a big part of Solvang’s appeal. It’s in the middle of Santa Barbara County’s wine country, with renowned nearby wineries. Mortensen’s Danish Bakery serves fresh aebleskiver and kringle, while Red Viking Restaurant dishes up hearty Danish-American grub. For something fancier, try Succulent Cafe, known for its California cuisine with a Danish twist.
The Elverhoj Museum of History & Art offers a deeper insight into the area’s Danish heritage and local history. Don’t miss the Little Mermaid statue and storybook-themed playground at Hans Christian Andersen Park! Other nearby attractions include the iconic Neverland Ranch (visible from the road), Lake Cachuma for fishing and boating, and lots of hiking trails.
Nearby KOAs:
Santa Margarita KOA Holiday
Ventura Ranch KOA Holiday
Lost Hills KOA Journey
Where’s YOUR Next One-Tank Adventure?
Incredible experiences don’t have to mean long-distance travel or pricey flights. With some planning and a full tank, you can discover amazing spots just a few hours from home.
Pack your sense of adventure, fill ‘er up, and hit the road. America’s got a ton of incredible places in its backyard, just waiting to be explored.
Leslie is a freelance travel and health/wellness writer who gets butterflies from telling stories and sharing information with readers across the globe. Her voice comes from a place filled with passion and dreams.
With over 10 years of experience in crafting words and years of embarking on travels that have taken this Montana girl to some incredible places, Leslie loves the adventures of both body and mind that her writing takes her on.
To see what Leslie’s up to in the writing and design world, visit her website here.
