Sit back, chill out, take a load off. These wellness destinations for rest and relaxation won’t leave you feeling like you need a vacation from your vacation. Located in the United States, you also won’t be battling jetlag while trying to escape the stress of your 9 to 5.
Relaxation resorts and retreats offer the unique opportunity to disconnect from daily life while putting your health and well-being first. Many renowned wellness resorts throughout the U.S. encourage tourists to unwind in a stunning environment.
Treat yourself to a relaxing vacation at one of these top U.S. wellness destinations.
Austin, Texas
Austin, the capital of Texas, has established itself as a leading wellness destination. The city has a thriving community of local artists and musicians. Austin also appeals to outdoor enthusiasts with its public city parks and open spaces, giving tourists plenty of things to do.
Several health-focused resorts in the Austin area promote self-reflection and restfulness. These luxurious properties offer extravagant lodging and top-tier spa services.
Asheville, North Carolina
Asheville is a scenic haven for wellness activities. Its location in the Blue Ridge Mountains makes it a picturesque city in North Carolina to unwind. Outdoor lovers can reconnect with nature by hiking the surrounding trails and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
There are many yoga studios and spiritual workshops throughout the city. Visitors can tap into their artistic side by taking creative classes at Asheville’s numerous art galleries.
Sedona, Arizona
According to Travel + Leisure, one of the country’s top relaxation retreats, Mii amo, is in Sedona. Sedona is notorious for promoting health and well-being, and many high-end local resorts allow visitors to prioritize rest.
Sedona’s desert landscape, characterized by striking red rock formations, is a peaceful place to settle your mind. Visitors can hike, swim, or go sightseeing, depending on what feels personally fulfilling.
Bend, Oregon
Consider Bend for a balance of adventure and leisure. Located on the Deschutes River, Bend boasts picture-perfect mountains, volcanoes, and lakes. Bend’s outdoor recreation and luxurious accommodations appeal to many tourists.
You can engage with the environment by exploring local trails or floating down the river. Thanks to its spas and retreats, Bend is also an excellent place to put yourself first.
Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is an idyllic California city located on the coast. Santa Barbara’s leisurely way of life encourages visitors to slow down during a wellness getaway. Wandering through the Mediterranean and Spanish-inspired architecture will transport you to the streets of Europe.
This picturesque destination has beautiful local landmarks and pleasant weather year-round. From historic sites to art museums and shops selling regional goods, Santa Barbara has much to experience.
Maui, Hawaii
The island of Maui is a tropical escape for health-conscious tourists. Famous for its world-class beaches, jagged volcanic peaks, and hiking trails, this pristine locale is a fantastic place to unplug from daily life.
Maui’s numerous wellness retreats give visitors an authentic taste of island life. Activities such as yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness exercises restore inner balance.
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Hilton Head Island is located in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of South Carolina. It’s a scenic beach destination where you can watch the sunset while listening to ocean waves. Health and wellness are a top draw for tourists to Hilton Head Island.
The island has a friendly, easygoing atmosphere that welcomes visitors of all backgrounds. Treat yourself to a spa day or view wildlife at a protected refuge area. However you spend time on Hilton Head Island, you’ll leave feeling rejuvenated.
Taos, New Mexico
The small desert town of Taos is an excellent place for relaxation. Taos is a free-spirited hub for art and spirituality. Tourists will enjoy learning about Taos’s indigenous history and rich local culture.
Taos boasts year-round recreation, such as skiing and hiking, for those who want to get active. Consider one of Taos’s highly-rated spas and resorts for an indulgent stay. After a Taos getaway, you’ll feel refreshed from the inside out.
Boulder, Colorado
Boulder is a laid-back escape set against the Rocky Mountains. This trendy Colorado city has become a top destination for wellness-minded travelers. Ecotourism opportunities abound throughout Boulder, from rock climbing to outdoor yoga and biking.
Several luxury resorts offer wellness treatments to ease your mind and body. Boulder’s natural beauty is ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle of city life.
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
The upscale Wyoming town of Jackson Hole attracts millions of annual tourists. Jackson Hole is conveniently located near the Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Its rugged beauty has shaped its reputation as an exclusive mountain getaway.
Jackson Hole is a splurge-worthy destination for personal well-being. Unwind by taking movement classes and spiritual workshops at the city’s upscale resorts. The stunning backdrop of the mountains surrounding Jackson Hole will enhance your travel experience.
Miami, Florida
Miami is a famous town in Florida known for the beach, global cuisines, and shopping. While it’s often associated with parties and exciting nightlife, Miami also has a renowned health and wellness scene.
The city is home to several well-regarded beachside resorts. Here, tourists can book innovative health treatments and pampering beauty services. To save some money, stay at an Airbnb in the city and stick to day spas and pool passes rather than pricey resorts.
Park City, Utah
Park City is famous for its ski resorts, but there are also unique opportunities to de-stress. As an upscale resort town, Park City has many world-class places to stay for a relaxing vacation.
Park City’s 5-star spas and wellness centers provide quiet areas where you can enjoy the luxury offerings in peace. Meanwhile, the forested mountains surrounding Park City are an excellent setting to escape into nature.
The Berkshires, Massachusetts
The Berkshires is a region of Massachusetts known for its landscape and small-town charm. This vacation area encompasses almost 100 miles of rolling hills in western Massachusetts. Wellness resorts found throughout the Berkshires allow guests to try holistic workshops.
Plan a visit to the Berkshires next time you’re craving a change of scenery. The Berkshires region is a hub for yoga and meditation studios, giving you plenty of options for a calming trip away from home.
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Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.