13 Best U.S. Workcation Destinations
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Are you wondering where is the perfect US workcation destination? Being able to work while exploring a new destination and experiencing a different environment can boost your creativity, productivity and most important you get to travel more, without having to take time off work.
USA Working Holiday Destinations
With more companies offering remote working options, this is the perfect time to consider combining your work and vacation at these perfect US workcation destinations!
1. Boone, NC
This adorable little town is nestled in the mountains of North Carolina and home to Appalachian State University. You’ll find strong wifi wherever you stay and there are plenty of public spots where you can connect to wifi as well.
The wifi availability isn’t the only reason that this is the perfect place for a workcation though. Many of the cabins or condos have sweeping mountain views so you can set up your remote office with an amazing backdrop.
Boone is a large enough town that there are plenty of fun restaurants and shops but small enough to feel like home for a bit.
It is also very popular for outdoor adventure. People come here for hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking in the spring, summer, and fall and in the winter you can ski here.
You are close to nearby highlights such as Grandfather Mountain, Linville Falls, the New River, and Elk Knob State Park. There are also many other smaller towns that have a fun character nearby as well.
Blowing Rock, West Jefferson, and Valle Crucis are just a few. There are also lots of breweries and wineries in the area to swing by and get a drink after work or on the weekend.
Recommended by Anna of PaddlingSpace.com
2. Carmel-by-the-Sea
Head to California’s Carmel-by-the-Sea, just a couple of hour’s drive south of San Francisco, for a relaxing workcation.
This quaint chocolate box town has long been a favorite escape for Northern California’s more famous residents. Actor Clint Eastwood and former NFL head coach John Madden still live there, but it was also home to the likes of John Steinbeck, Bing Crosby, Ansel Adams, and Doris Day over the years.
Carmel-by-the-Sea has a European town feel that extends past the main street of cute boutiques, restaurants, and cellar doors.
The town is dotted with beautiful B&Bs and hotels that offer WiFi and a desk to work from. But when you’re not busy, experience one of California’s most beautiful stretches of coastline by driving the famous 17 Mile Drive. There are 17 scenic viewpoints along the way, and if you visit at the right time of year you might see seals and whales as well.
There’s lots of great boutique shopping to be had at Carmel Plaza’s outdoor mall and on the main street, but don’t miss the array of art galleries here too!
Spend some time relaxing or soaking up some sun on Carmel Beach, or visit the authentically restored Roman Catholic Mission church, Carmel Mission Basilica Museum. Finish off your time in Carmel-by-the-Sea with some local wine tasting, and your workcation will be complete!
Recommended by Katherine of Bright Lights of America
3. Catskills, NY
The Catskills have always been a beloved ‘back to nature’ getaway and it’s a perfect destination for a workcation. It’s only 90 minutes from NYC but you might as well be a world away. You can relax and marvel at the awe-inspiring surroundings while you work during the day and squeeze in one activity and a delicious meal at night. We’ve been vacationing here for 15 years and have done workcation trips, even before the pandemic. Despite the mountain setting, resorts, hotels, AirBNBs, and house rentals come with reliable internet service.
We stay at our ski-in/ski-out timeshare when vacationing, but have recommended Scribner’s Lodge to tons of friends over the years. Enjoy a relaxing workcation at this recently renovated, modern luxury boutique hotel. They have larger suite rooms, an amazing bar, and a restaurant that would shine in Manhattan. During the summer season, you can take a post-work dip in their pool with stunning mountain views.
A visit to the infamous Kaaterskill Falls is a must-do. Thanks to a new paved shorter trail you can see the tallest waterfall in New York State Park even if you only have an hour after your workday. Park at the Laurel House Rd lot and follow the quarter of mile walk to the Viewing Platform. Multiple hiking trails intersect there, so you can continue exploring the area if you’d like!
Check out the guide of my favorite restaurants, bars, nightlife, festivals, and activities for more amazing things to do in the Catskills.
Recommended by Monica of A Planner At Heart
4. Chincoteague, VA
If you’re not too keen on large cities and are looking for a quiet respite and workcation, a unique place to consider is the small town of Chincoteague, Virginia.
Chincoteague sits on the northern part of the Eastern Shore of Virginia and is famous for Chincoteague Island National Wildlife Refuge… and wild ponies! The town is relaxing and has a very laid-back vibe and is a place that is affordable for a beach community. You will find plenty of beaches along Assateague National Seashore, a long and undeveloped beach shared with Maryland.
One place that you can’t miss in Chincoteague is the beautiful Assateague Lighthouse. You are also near the Wallops Island Flight Facility, a NASA rocket launch site. You will find plenty of things to do in Chincoteague but the town is also easy to work from. You’ll find many restaurants, seaside bars and taverns, and cafes that have high-speed wifi and a creative atmosphere. There are also so many places along the Eastern Shore that are worth visiting like Cape Charles, Onancock, and Kiptopeke State Park, one of the most underrated state parks in Virginia.
The Eastern Shore is a quiet and reflective place and can also be a place for those into yoga, meditation, or those with jobs like writing, painting, and more. The Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay can inspire you and refresh you at the same time.
Recommended by Megan of Virginia Travel Tips
5. Cincinnati, OH
A fantastic place for a workcation in the Midwest is the Southwestern Ohio metropolis of Cincinnati. Cincinnati is known for its party atmosphere and being an extremely down-to-earth place with a lot to do.
One of the main reasons to take a workcation in Cincy is that it is extremely affordable and you can extend your trip there for a longer amount of time for not much extra money. You get get a meal for well under $10 and you can find several cafes with high-speed wifi with affordable coffee.
Another reason to take a workcation to the Ohio city is that there are several incredible weekend trips from Cincinnati. Right across the river is Newport, Kentucky and you will find some of the area’s best restaurants and bars there. It is even home to Hofbrauhaus from Munich. From Cincinnati, you can visit Dayton, Columbus, Louisville, and Lexington all for a weekend.
If you’re into amusement parks, Kings Island is close by and if you’re into breweries, you can visit Over the Rhine district for a bit of nightlife. Cincinnati is one of the most exciting cities in the United States and the locals will welcome you with open arms!
Recommended by Megan of Megan Starr
6. Gatlinburg, TN
Located in eastern Tennessee on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the mountain town of Gatlinburg is the perfect spot for a workcation.
Gatlinburg and the neighboring towns of Pigeon Forge and Sevierville are home to hundreds of cozy cabins that make for the perfect remote work environment. Most of the cabins offer up gorgeous views of the Smokies – what could be better than getting your work done while enjoying an incredible view?
Don’t worry about a poor connection making it difficult to get work done – nearly all of the cabins have WiFi. Many cabins also have amenities like hot tubs and movie rooms, perfect for unwinding after the work day. The cabins will make you feel as if you’re far off in the wilderness, when in reality you’re just minutes away from shops, restaurants, and fun things to do.
Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge have plenty to keep you busy after working hours and on the weekends. Get outdoors by going for a hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, or enjoy the views from the Gatlinburg SkyBridge, the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. You can sample some Tennessee moonshine at one of the many distilleries in the area, and enjoy delicious southern cuisine at some of the area’s best restaurants like The Old Mill, the Local Goat, and Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant.
Recommended by Sydney of A World in Reach
7. Golden, CO
If you’re looking for a charming mountain town for an incredible workcation – look no further than Golden, Colorado! Golden is one of the closest mountain towns to Denver, CO, which means you have everything a city offers within a 30-minute drive. However, there are so many things to do in Golden that you won’t NEED it!
A great local hotel (with a boutique feel) to home base yourself is the Dove Inn. It’s a historic building built in 1866 with charming period rooms, a “hands off” approach to service, and super-fast Wi-Fi! Daily breakfast is provided, continental style, and they even have an incredible full-service coffee bar (locally roasted only) with kombucha on tap.
After a long day of work – get out on the town and explore Golden! You might not know it, but this little town is actually the world’s largest producer of beer by volume. That’s because Coors started and is still headquartered right here. And, of course, like any good Colorado town there are quite a few local microbreweries to enjoy as well. Daily free tours are offered at Coors, and Golden City Brewery is a local favorite with a killer beer garden.
But be sure to stroll along the picturesque main street and peruse all the local shops as well! Walking along the Clear Creek path is a great way to get some exercise in with incredible views. And taking a Golden History Tour is a great way to learn more about Golden’s Wild West past.
Recommended by Kara of Destination: Live Life
8. Miami, FL
Miami is a city unlike any other in the US. With a strong south and central American influence, this place is all about beaches, nightlife, and combining work with fun. Miami is a large city so you’ll have all the amenities needed for the perfect workcation while also having plenty of options for relaxing and sightseeing.
With crystal-clear water and beautiful white sand, Miami’s beaches are ideal for an afternoon swim or a morning spent paddle-boarding or relaxing. Of course there are a number of cafes, restaurants or beach clubs for you to choose from if you enjoy working in lively environments.
If you want to spend more time focusing on being productive you should head to one of the many coworking spaces in the city. Day-passes are affordable and you’ll get a lot done before rewarding yourself with a drink at a nearby rooftop bar. Miami has a lot to offer especially if you enjoy outdoor activities.
If you have a day off why not drive down towards Key West and enjoy the beautiful south of the US. The Everglades National Park is also a must-see and there are plenty of tours available to show you more of the area.
Recommended by Victoria of Guide Your Travel
9. Milwaukee, WI
Downtown Milwaukee, WI has several hotels that are suitable for a workcation, like the Hyatt Regency, Springhill Suites, and Residence Inn. There are great deals to be found that include free breakfast and wi-fi. If you prefer more elegant and historical accommodations, stay at the Pfister Hotel. Known as the Grand Hotel of the West, it has been favored by dignitaries and world leaders.
Milwaukee has many attractions that can help you balance work with pleasure. When you need a break, stroll the Riverwalk to see public art or shop boutiques. The walk will take you through sections of downtown.
If you want food away from a hotel or need groceries for your stay, catch a taxi to the Milwaukee Public Market. Located in the Historic Third Ward, it is a must to enjoy freshly made food, or seafood, wine, cheese, and dessert purchases. Pressing deadlines? No problem. Seating is available on the upper level so you can work while you eat. For snacks, visit the Wisconsin Cheese Mart for a sumptuous variety of cheeses (after all, Wisconsin is cheesehead territory). You are invited to try samples and purchase your cheese brands and some fun attire.
Need to work unplugged? Find a cozy spot in Veteran’s Park or McKinley Beach, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, for amazing views. It’s not hard to find public internet access at nearby coffee shops, like Starbucks and Collectivo, or the public library.
Traveling with family? The Milwaukee Children’s Museum is an interactive experience that will keep the wee ones engaged. The Milwaukee Art Museums has contemporary art, kids’ activities, and awe-inspiring exhibits. Look for a quiet spot when you need to join a quick meeting.
Milwaukee can be reached within a 2-hour drive from Chicago, IL, or Madison, WI. The nearest airport, General Mitchell International (MKE), is about 13 miles south of the city and the fastest way to get to downtown Milwaukee is by taxi/uber for about $18. Milwaukee is a walkable city, but having a car is a nice convenience and allows you to explore more.
Recommended by Tanya of Travels and Treasures
10. Naples, FL
If you’re looking for a warm tropical atmosphere in the USA for a relaxed and productive work-cation, Naples on the southwest coast of Florida is a perfect destination. Referred to as the Paradise Coast, this once-sleepy city on the Gulf of Mexico was the west coast Sunday morning to Miami’s east coast Saturday night.
In the past decade, however, Naples has exploded in popularity, though it’s still small enough to easily get around and has plenty of things to see and do. There is a wealth of great shopping, and Naples is one of Florida’s golfing capitals with more courses per capita than any other city in Florida. It’s a foodie heaven as well with a wide array of dining options (over 700 restaurants in Naples Florida alone).
And if lounging on the beach while you’re fully connected is what you need, Naples is known for its beautiful white sand beaches with excellent wi-fi, and abundant outdoor activities. The city sits at the gateway to the Florida Everglades, one of the last remaining wilderness areas in the United States.
It’s also easy to get to Naples from just about anywhere. It’s less than an hour from Southwest Florida International airport and just 1.5 hours from Miami. If you can work from just about anywhere, wouldn’t you want to plug into Paradise?
Recommended by Lori of Naples Florida Travel Guide
11. Palm Springs, CA
Palm Springs is the perfect destination for a workcation on the west coast. Palm Springs is a vibrant desert town in Southern California known for sunshine, relaxation, and art culture.
Palm Springs can be easily reached by a flight into Palm Springs international airport or a road trip from LA, San Diego, or Phoenix. Once in Palm Springs, rent a car for easy exploration after work hours and during the weekend.
Palm Springs has year-round sunshine, making it a great warm-weather escape to work remote. In the winter, temperatures range from 60 to 80 degrees. In the summer, it is often in the hundreds. The best months to workcation in Palm Springs are October until May.
Additionally, the small town is full of amazing restaurants for fun post-work dinners. Some of the best restaurants in Palm Springs are Tommy Bahama, Il Corso, and Tac/Quila. Be sure to visit Wilma and Frieda’s for weekend brunch.
Over the weekend, visit the nearby Joshua Tree National Park, spend time on one of the many golf courses, or enjoy time at the pool. Joshua Tree National Park is a great day trip an hour from Palm Springs. In Joshua tree, enjoy the unique landscape, take a hike, or simply drive the scenic loop.
The Palm Springs valley is made up of many towns including Palm Desert, Indio, and La Quinta. Any of these areas are great places to stay during your workcation. The best accommodation for a workcation in Palm Springs is one of the many vacation rentals. Find a rental with a pool for the best work from home view.
Recommended by Lauren of The Travelling Moore
12. Santa Fe, New Mexico
A beautiful city surrounded by mountains, Santa Fe is a must visit destination in New Mexico. At 7,000 feet, this city is even higher than Denver and should be the one being dubbed as the “mile-high city.” Founded in the early 1600s, few people know that this is actually America’s second oldest city making it the highest and oldest capital in the U.S.
A relatively new state, the combination of history, ancient culture, art and nature make it one of the most interesting cities for a Workcation. The cell signal is strong and many hotels offer wifi so there are plenty of options for those needing a quiet place to work for the day. In the evenings, venture out into the historic town square to grab a beer at the local brewery or enjoy the incredible art galleries in town. In fact, the art scene is so strong that UNESCO named Santa Fe as the first U.S. city for their Creative City designation, a designation held by only 9 cities in the entire world.
The architecture in this town is truly unique and the climate is perfect for those that enjoy sunny weather. In fact, Santa Fe boasts an average of 300 sunny days per year. If you’re a ski bum, be sure to make Santa Fe a stop on your epic west coast ski road trip. There is a ski resort in town as well as the world famous Taos ski resort less than 2 hours away.
Recommended by Lina of Bucketlist Places
13. Sarasota, FL
Sarasota is a great place for a workcation, located on the beautiful Gulf Coast of Florida. The city is small enough to get around easily, it is close to beautiful beaches, and University Town Center has amazing shopping and restaurants.
Sarasota has some of the most beautiful beaches in the area, Siesta Key Beach has been voted the #1 Beach in the United States multiple times. The beach has beautiful soft white sands and makes the perfect weekend spot. Please remember sunscreen as the sun is very strong in Florida, and stay for the sunset and possibly spot the green flash.
If you are feeling more along the nature route, then hit up Myakka River State Park. There is a canopy walk that is amazing, and multiple trails. Make sure to bring sunscreen and bug spray because you will be walking through some wetland areas.
There are great museums and history like the Ringling Art museum is such a beautiful pink building, and makes for an amazing backdrop for any pictures. The Ringling Circus used to winter in Sarasota and the Ringling house Ca’ d’Zan was built in the 1920’s and is located right on Sarasota Bay. It is quite the unique building and has some amazing architectural features.
The Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is located on the Sarasota Bay and has a beautiful mix of flowers and walkways.
Recommended by Rebecca of Whatever Packs Your Bags
