The Top 10 Small Cities in the U.S. for a Honeymoon

Posted by Adam Warner

Savannah_Honeymoon_Cover.jpgAfter previously highlighting the best small towns in America for a honeymoon, we couldn't resist featuring even more truly spectacular honeymoon destinations around the United States.

From historic cities along the coast overflowing with romance to vibrant destinations backed by amazing scenery and ample adventure options, these are 10 of our favorite small cities in the U.S. for a memorable honeymoon getaway.

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Charleston, South Carolina

With magnificent architecture, an amazing food scene, spirited neighborhoods, and beautiful beaches, Charleston, South Carolina is a terrific small city choice for a honeymoon getaway.

Hoping for lots of romantic opportunities on your honeymoon? Charleston will be your ideal destination. Think horse-drawn carriages and cobblestone streets, swaying palm trees, picnic-perfect parks, and colorful, historic buildings.

Couples can choose from a wide range of honeymoon accommodation options, from cute B&Bs to lovely boutique hotels to five-star resorts set right on the beach like Kiawah Island Golf Resort.

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Santa Barbara, California

Looking for a taste of Europe without ever leaving the country? Consider a honeymoon getaway to Santa Barbara, California, known for its striking red tile roofs and Spanish-Moorish architecture, sandy beaches, excellent wineries, and plentiful cultural offerings.

Plus, with gorgeous mountain views, close proximity to the ocean, and pleasant year-round weather, there's never a bad time for honeymooners to visit Santa Barbara.

Drop your bags at Kimpton Canary Hotel, a Spanish-style hotel with rooftop pool, luxury spa, four-poster beds, and breathtaking views.

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Asheville, North Carolina

With a population of about 94,000, the small city of Asheville, North Carolina is a fantastic home base for honeymoon couples looking to explore the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Adventurous couples will find a wide-range of once-in-a-lifetime activities, such as whitewater rafting, ziplining, kayaking, waterfall hikes, and hot air ballooning.

Asheville is also home to the iconic Biltmore Estate, a lively and very walkable downtown, and a long list of first-rate resorts, spas, and hotels.

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Santa Fe, New Mexico

Love history, art, and incredible architecture -- preferably in a small, walkable downtown area? Look no further than a honeymoon in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

With its Pueblo-style architecture, hundreds of impressive art galleries, and numerous historic sites, the capital city makes for a terrific destination for history buffs and art lovers.

Santa Fe, also nicknamed "The City Different", is blessed with more than 300 days of sunshine a year, excellent restaurants, and renowned hotels and resorts, providing newlyweds with a boundless amount of honeymoon options.

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Newport, Rhode Island

Home to well-preserved Gilded Age mansions, a picturesque harbor, and historic (and very walkable) downtown, the small city of Newport, Rhode Island is a great choice for East Coast honeymooners. Some of our favorite honeymoon experiences include visiting historic mansions, taking romantic strolls along the Cliff Walk, dining at acclaimed seafood restaurants, and getting out on the water for a memorable sailing experience.

Book your honeymoon hotel at the Ocean House, perched high atop a bluff in scenic southwestern Rhode Island. This elegant seaside retreat is home to a top-notch spa, excellent dining options, lovely guestrooms (many with ocean views), a private beach along the Atlantic Ocean, and a long list of recreational activities.

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Palm Springs, California

With nearly 350 days of sunshine per year, Palm Springs is the ultimate honeymoon spot for sun-seekers. The city, located about 100 miles east of Los Angeles, also draws newlyweds thanks to numerous art galleries, boutique shopping, excellent fine dining, and stylish accommodations (which often feature gorgeous mid-century modern design).

Palm Springs honeymooners won't want to miss exploring Joshua Tree National Park, just a 35-mile drive from town. The park, which features two unique desert ecosystems, boasts incredible hiking, biking, climbing, and stargazing opportunities.

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Savannah, Georgia

Quite simply this charming coastal city in Georgia is one dreamy honeymoon destination. With stunning Victorian-era architecture, beautiful gardens and parks draped in Spanish moss, historic neighborhoods, award-winning dining, and a wide range of entertainment options, Savannah has that perfect mix of romantic endeavors and one-of-a-kind activities for newlyweds.

Whether you're a foodie, history buff, or beach lover (or perhaps all three), there's something for everyone in this gorgeous small city oozing with southern hospitality.

Be sure to seek out the city's best rooftop bars and restaurants. Start with Bar Julian for small bits and delicious drinks before heading to The Lost Square, known for its creative cocktail menu.

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Bend, Oregon

Situated on the eastern side of the Cascade Mountains, the growing city of Bend has emerged as a go-to honeymoon destination in recent years for its premium outdoor recreation. With incredible mountains, forests, rivers, and even volcanoes nearby, it's easy for honeymooners to find once-in-a-lifetime experiences (everything from rafting to caving to moonlight canoe tours).

This energetic city makes for a perfect home base for Oregon honeymooners, especially when you consider Bend's amazing dining and brewery experiences, relaxing spas, and unique cultural attractions.

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Key West, Florida

The southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West blends beautiful beaches and resorts with incredible historic sites, delicious food and drink experiences, and awesome water sports pursuits (especially snorkeling, diving, and fishing). The result is a magical honeymoon destination that newlyweds will find to be the perfect slice of paradise.

Among our favorite Key West honeymoon experiences: The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Dry Tortugas National Park, and an unforgettable sunset sailing cruise.

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Portland, Maine

Thinking of a honeymoon trip to New England? Consider Portland as your feature destination, a vibrant small city (and Maine's largest) located right along the scenic coast. From lighthouses and sandy beaches to craft brews and an award-winning restaurant scene, Portland has so many options for newlyweds. Big on outdoor adventures? The biking, boating, and kayaking opportunities in the region are nothing short of spectacular.

Drop your bags at Inn By the Sea, a luxury oceanfront resort featuring a top-notch spa, cozy accommodations, and fantastic views.


In case you missed it:

The Top Small Towns in the U.S. for a Honeymoon

These are the World's Hottest Honeymoon Destinations in 2024