15 Relaxing Vacation Spots in the U.S.

The slow travel trend isn’t new, but according to Pinterest’s latest trend report, you may want to take it extra slow, straying far from packed itineraries for each day you're away. Digital detoxes and living life in the slow lane are what's on tap. As in, relaxing vacations that allow you to de-stress, whether you're going solo, as a family or with a partner.

Ready to unplug? Keep reading to discover the most relaxing vacation spots in the U.S.

It’s easy to relax on Michigan’s Mackinac Island, if only because there are no cars on this ferry-accessible island that sits on Lake Huron. Mackinac Island State Park makes up the bulk of this small island, boasting limestone arches, sea caves and miles of scenic trails. Rent a bike on Main Street for an eight-mile pedal around the island’s perimeter, making stops for Arch Rock and Chimney Rock. Fudge is kind of a big deal here, so pop in for samples at one of many fudge shops, like Original Murdick’s Fudge. Book a stay at the historic Island House Hotel, where you can while away the day with a good book on the covered porch.

Set in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, Frisco is an underrated gem, and one that more than a few travelers drive by as they motor west along I-70 to bustling ski areas like Copper Mountain and Vail. In Frisco, enjoy a relaxing paddle on Lake Dillon or rent a bike in town for an 18-mile ride around the reservoir, which boasts scenic overlooks, like Sapphire Point. Hiking is also notable, including the Mount Royal Trail, which leads to bird’s-eye views across Frisco. Book a stay just off Main Street at the Frisco Inn on Galena for morning breakfast, an afternoon wine hour and an in-house spa.

Middleburg enchants with rolling hills, scenic vineyards and plentiful green spaces in the heart of Virginia’s wine and hunt country. A one-hour drive west of Washington, D.C., this quaint 10-block town can feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Stroll Washington Street for boutique shops, farm-to-table restaurants and coffee roasteries. Middleburg is home to more than a half-dozen tasting rooms, including award-winning 50 West Vineyards and Cana Vineyards & Winery. This historic village is also an easy 20-minute drive from scenic hiking trails at Sky Meadows State Park. A popular in-town stay is the Red Fox Inn & Tavern.

Sedona is widely known for its stunning red rock formations and geological landmarks, like Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Four days a week (Thursday-Sunday), the free Sedona Shuttle takes visitors to several popular trailheads, including Little Horse and Dry Creek Vista. Sedona is home to energy vortexes, including Boynton Canyon and Airport Mesa, which are said to be conducive to spiritual healing and inner reflection. They are frequently sought out as sites for meditation, yoga and prayer. Book a stay uptown at the Amara Resort and Spa, which is an easy walk to art galleries, boutiques and restaurants.

A stone’s throw from Montana’s Glacier National Park, Whitefish is a laid-back town known for breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and a charming downtown area that’s replete with art galleries, boutiques and cafes. Wander the national park’s serene hiking trails and enjoy a drive and lookout points along scenic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Visitors can also revel in outdoor activities like mountain biking, golfing and skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort. In warm weather months, settle in with a book and a folding beach chair at City Beach, a pristine sandy beach on the shores of Whitefish Lake. In winter, cold-weather serenity beckons with cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fat-tire biking across miles of groomed snow-covered trails.

Anna Maria Island is a small barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast that wows with turquoise waters and white sandy beaches. It’s just over an hour from bustling Tampa, but it can feel worlds away with its laid-back, Old Florida charm. A noted absence of high-rise buildings and condos preserves the skyline and rewards visitors looking for a relaxed, small-town vibe and quiet stretches of shoreline. An abundance of bike paths allows for leisurely exploration of the island on foot or two wheels. Stop in Lazy Turtle Beach Rentals, which rents bikes as well as golf carts, beach wagons and kayaks. Relaxing island activities include shelling, saltwater fishing and savoring colorful sunsets at Bean Point Beach. Anna Maria Beach Resort is a popular stay for spectacular Gulf views.

Pacific City is a quiet seaside enclave in Tillamook County. Some say it’s a hidden gem that rivals Oregon’s more well-known beach locales, like Cannon Beach and Manzanita. A must-go in Pacific City is Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area, a jewel on the Pacific Ocean that draws in visitors for its tide pools, sandstone cliffs and dramatic Haystack Rock. For outdoor adventure, you’ll find it in Pacific City too, including mountain biking, horseback riding and kayaking. The small-town charm and laid-back atmosphere make it easy to slow down and relax. Book a stay with water views, like the Headlands Coastal Lodge & Spa.

Known as the "Jewel of the Maine Coast," Camden is a picturesque seaside village with beautiful harbors, historic architecture and a vibrant arts scene. Tap into stunning natural scenery, like Camden Hills State Park, which boasts breathtaking views across Penobscot Bay from high atop Mount Battie. Soak in the small-town charm by strolling tree-lined streets with quaint boutiques, cozy coffee shops and colorful art galleries. From Camden Harbor, watch as schooners and sailboats set sail across the glistening coastal waters. Book a sunset sail with Schooner Appledore to take in the views of Maine’s beautiful coastline. Book a stay at a charming inn, like the Grand Harbor Inn.

Nestled in North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville offers a relaxing getaway with a mix of natural beauty, outdoor activities, cultural attractions and a serious craft beer scene. It helps that Asheville is a stone’s throw from the iconic Blue Ridge Parkway, which has many stunning overlooks, including Craggy Gardens and Tanbark Ridge. Go hiking at Pisgah National Forest or set out for a paddle or tubing on the French Broad River. The River Arts District is home to colorful art studios and galleries, which allow visitors to meet local creatives and explore the vibrant arts scene. Book a stay at The Windsor, a boutique hotel that’s an easy walk to breweries, wine bars, coffee shops and pizzerias.

Carmel-by-the-Sea is a relaxing destination on California’s Central Coast. It’s easy to stroll this charming one-square-mile town, making stops to be in the moment and savor the natural beauty. You’ll spy numerous fairy-tale cottages in this European-style village, all designed by Hugh Comstock, a master builder who fell in love with this vibrant, artistic town and never left. More than 40 secret passages, curious courtyards and whimsical gardens encourage visitors to explore this former artists' colony, which was once home to Jack London and Ansel Adams. Plan on sunset at Carmel Beach with a bottle of wine from Caraccioli Cellars. Stay in town at La Playa Hotel.

New York’s Lake Placid offers a refreshingly relaxing lakeside vacation thanks to several pristine lakes, including Mirror Lake, Saranac Lake and, of course, Lake Placid. This picturesque village sits nestled into New York’s Adirondack Mountains. Enjoy plenty of laid-back outdoor adventures, like paddling on Mirror Lake, taking the gondola to the summit of Little Whiteface Mountain and waterfall watching at High Falls Gorge. If your idea of relaxation includes hiking, and a little questing, check into becoming a Saranac Lake 6er. Hike to the top of six neighboring mountains, including Mount Baker and Ampersand Mountain, and you’re in. Stay at Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort. It’s the only in-town hotel that sits on Mirror Lake.

Stone Harbor is an idyllic shore town located on New Jersey’s Seven Mile Island. It’s known for wide, sandy beaches and quiet, tree-lined streets. Stone Harbor is dominated by gorgeous beach rentals, enabling a less-crowded and more tranquil shore experience. This quaint bike- and pedestrian-friendly town boasts a small shopping district with boutiques, pancake restaurants, ice cream shops and a movie theater, as well as children’s playgrounds. The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary offers a peaceful retreat for birding enthusiasts. Stay in a VRBO rental or look to a handful of small hotels, like The Reeds at Shelter Haven.

Stowe is one of Vermont’s quintessential mountain towns. Tucked away in the Green Mountains, Stowe is known for stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities and irresistible New England charm. It's where relaxation and adventure meet, wowing with rolling hills, verdant forests and mountain streams, as well as rugged hiking and biking trails. In winter, Stowe Mountain Resort is tops for skiing and snowboarding, but it’s also a cinch to set out on snowshoes for a contemplative nature walk on snow-covered trails. In Stowe’s downtown area, enjoy craft beers, farm-to-table cuisine and locally owned coffee shops. Stowe also boasts wellness experiences, like yoga, meditation and spa treatments.

Tucked into Wyoming’s Jackson Hole valley, Jackson is a mecca for outdoor enthusiasts whose version of relaxation means skiing, paddling, cycling and climbing. As the gateway to both Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, Jackson is ground zero for dramatic peaks, pristine lakes and verdant valleys, making it an excellent base for hiking amongst the stunning natural beauty of the west. For wildlife-watching, head to the National Elk Refuge, though you may see native wildlife, like bison, bears, moose and elk, roaming around town. At night, Jackson’s clear skies are ideal for an evening of stargazing. Stay in Jackson or neighboring Teton Village at the newly renovated Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa.