We often imagine vacations as the solution to burnout. We dream of strolling along Maui’s golden beaches or sipping espresso in the heart of Paris, convinced that a change of scenery will solve it all. Yet, many of us have returned home weary, worn out from racing between tourist spots and managing travel stress. Instead of feeling refreshed, we feel like we need another vacation. The truth is, not every trip restores us. If you’re seeking a genuine reset, choosing the right destination makes all the difference. This guide is organized to help you plan a truly restorative getaway—highlighting real-world locations known for helping visitors rest, recharge, and come home renewed.

Nature Retreats

If your soul craves fresh air and quiet, escape to some of the world’s most restorative natural settings.

Cabins and Forest Escapes:

For deep forest tranquility, consider the cabins in Oregon’s Mount Hood National Forest, where you can wake up to dense evergreens and the hush of morning mist. If you want a classic New England retreat, book a cottage in Vermont’s Green Mountains, especially during autumn when the leaves put on a dazzling show.

Lakeside Relaxation:

Lake Tahoe, straddling California and Nevada, offers peaceful lakefront cabins and endless opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding, and forest hikes. For a more remote experience, head to Canada’s Algonquin Provincial Park to rent a rustic lodge on the lake—a favorite for stargazing and canoeing.

Serene Beaches:

Escape to the Florida Keys, where resorts on Islamorada or Key Largo provide hammocks strung between palm trees, turquoise water, and stunning sunsets. If you crave something more laid-back, consider Cannon Beach in Oregon, famous for its dramatic coastal scenery and quiet walks beside Haystack Rock.

Camping Under the Stars:

For a true unplug, spend a few nights camping in California’s Yosemite National Park or under the stars along Utah’s Zion National Park trails. Campgrounds like Watchman (Zion) or Upper Pines (Yosemite) put you right in the heart of nature.

City Escapes

Cities can be surprisingly rejuvenating if you choose wisely and slow your pace.

Wellness-Focused Cities:

Consider Copenhagen, Denmark—one of the happiest cities in the world, thanks to its bike-friendly streets, communal parks, and cozy cafes. In the US, Asheville, North Carolina blends Appalachian mountain views with a vibrant arts scene and soothing garden walks at the North Carolina Arboretum.

Urban Oases:

Kyoto, Japan is renowned for its serene gardens and temples—spending an afternoon at the tranquil Nanzen-ji or strolling along the Philosopher’s Path fills you with a quiet energy.

Closer to home, visit Vancouver, Canada. The city is bordered by mountains, rainforest, and the Pacific Ocean. Take a book to Stanley Park or unwind in one of its relaxing tea houses.

City Hotels Designed for Rest:

Pamper yourself at hotels like NYC’s The Greenwich Hotel in Tribeca, which offers a serene courtyard, a peaceful spa, and a heated pool. In London, the Ham Yard Hotel is known for its laid-back vibe in a central location—and plenty of hidden nooks to read or relax far from the tourist rush.

Staycations

If the idea of packing and airports brings more stress than relief, consider the well-loved concept of a staycation—done right.

Hotel Retreats in Your City:

Treat yourself to a relaxing weekend at a top-rated local hotel or boutique inn. For example, if you live in Chicago, check into the Viceroy Chicago for lake views and a rooftop pool. In Atlanta, the Loews Atlanta Hotel features luxe rooms and a spa in the heart of Midtown.

Rediscover Local Gems:

Visit often-overlooked spots in your own area: the Denver Botanic Gardens if you’re in Colorado, or the Getty Center in Los Angeles for panoramic views and tranquil gardens. Schedule a massage at a local spa, or sign up for a class you’ve been curious about—from pottery to gentle yoga.

Set Boundaries:

Plan your meals in advance with local delivery favorites or try a highly-rated restaurant you’ve never visited. Streamline your week by putting away work email and household chores—set an out-of-office message, and commit to relaxing activities you’d pick if you were truly out of town.

Digital Detox Destinations

Recharge by choosing places intentionally designed to help you disconnect from the digital world.

Remote Retreats:

Visit the Shambhala Mountain Center in Colorado, a meditation and mindfulness retreat tucked into the Rockies with limited cell service. Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California, sits at the edge of the Pacific and offers yoga, meditation, and workshops—Wi-Fi is spotty by design, helping you focus inward.

Off-the-Grid Lodges:

Head to Blackberry Mountain in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains, where luxury cabins have no televisions and there are more trails than text messages. In Canada, Fogo Island Inn is perched on a rugged island in Newfoundland. There’s no cell reception, but the ocean views, fireplace lounges, and guided hikes provide everything you need for true rest.

Self-Made Digital Detoxes:

Even if you can’t get away to a remote lodge, declare a “digital sabbath” at a local inn or at home. Let friends know you’ll be offline, leave your phone on silent, and trade screen time for board games, art supplies, or afternoon walks in a nearby park like New York’s Central Park or Boston’s Arnold Arboretum.