30 Best Minimoon Destinations in the USA & Canada

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Many couples plan for a minimoon because they want to go on a more elaborate and bigger adventure once they’ve had a while to get over the wedding planning.

There are many great reasons to take a delayed honeymoon (or latermoon), after all!

Planning a big honeymoon on top of a wedding can be a lot, financially and emotionally, so having a shorter break to regroup can be really beneficial.

Going on a minimoon can help you recharge after the wedding and recover from this busy time of your lives.

Choosing a minimoon and a latermoon means you get to enjoy two trips, too!

Typically, a minimoon is a shorter regional trip, which could be a staycation at a luxury resort in your home state or a city break for a few days or a week-long beach vacation.

It also gives you time to think about a bigger honeymoon trip. Whatever the plans, focus on quality rather than quantity.

There are many wonderful options for a shorter post-wedding getaway, from cosy boutique boltholes in forests to luxurious all-inclusive beach resorts and iconic city breaks.

Let’s take you to the best minimoon destinations in the USA & Canada!

P.S. If you’re in Europe, discover the best minimoon destinations on the other side of the Atlantic, too!

Canadian Minimoon Destinations

From food trucks to cool rooftop bars, the dining and bar scene is one of the best in the world.

Take a stroll through the vibrant cobbled streets with a European flair. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, explore the museums, and visit the Notre-Dame Basilica, a stunning Gothic Revival church that’s been a fixture of the city since 1829.

Explore the independent boutiques, art galleries, and coffee shops of Mile End. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Montréal, one of Canada’s most prominent art museums.

Catch a show at the Place des Arts. Take a trip up Mount Royal, the city’s namesake.

Take a walk through the park, enjoy a picnic with a view, and soak in the stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. We love Montreal.

The island is home to the charming capital of Victoria, with historic buildings and a picturesque harbour. Take a romantic stroll through the 55 acre Butchart Gardens.

But the island’s real charm lies in its stunning landscapes, from the windswept beaches to the rocky shorelines and ancient forests.

Explore the tidal pools and sea caves of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, or hike through the verdant forests of Cathedral Grove.

Vancouver Island is more than just a pretty face. It’s a hotbed of outdoor adventure, with opportunities for surfing, fishing, hiking, and mountain biking.

Kayak through the island’s coastal waters. Go on a zodiac whale watching tour.

The island also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and performing arts venues. Vancouver Island is one of our favourite minimoon destinations in Canada.

Wake up to breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and alpine lakes, surrounded by lush forests and pristine wilderness. The natural beauty of the landscape is the star of the show.

Whistler is a winter wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports.

In summer go hiking, biking, zip lining and explore the great outdoors. Take a scenic gondola ride up the mountain for breathtaking views of the valley below.

After a day of exploring, retreat to one of Whistler’s luxury hotels or cozy lodges.

Whether you’re looking for adventure activities or relaxation, Whistler is one of the perfect minimoon destinations in Canada.

Nestled off the northeastern coast of Canada, this remote island is unadulterated tranquility.

Rugged coastline, tiny fishing villages, wild Atlantic beaches. Fogo Island is also a designated Dark Sky Reserve where you can spend hours gazing at the starry night sky.

Within this intriguing natural landscape, you can go hiking, kayaking, and birdwatching.

Fogo Island Inn is one of the most unique minimoon destinations in Canada. Where to minimoon when you’ve been everywhere!

Mountain and Desert Minimoon Locations

Leave the hustle and bustle of wedding planning behind with six million acres of rugged wilderness and abundant wildlife.

Home to North America’s highest peak, Mount Denali, the scenery is beautiful, with snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and vast expanses of tundra.

Take scenic drives or hikes along the park’s many trails, and spot grizzly bears, wolves, caribou, and moose in their natural habitat.

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, an adventure seeker, or a stargazer, Denali National Park is one of the best minimoon destination in the USA to connect with nature.

Stay at a rustic lodge like Tonglen Lake Lodge.

Majestic landscapes, geothermal wonders, and abundant wildlife, rugged mountains and pristine lakes create a picturesque setting well worth exploring.

Start in the quaint town of Jackson Hole. With its wooden sidewalks and Western-style storefronts, it’s like stepping back in time.

Visit the iconic Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for a drink on the saddle bar stools. In winter, Jackson Hole is one of the best places to ski in America.

Spot wildlife such as bison, elk, and moose. In Grand Teton, hike to Hidden Falls, and see the shimmering Jenny Lake.

Go whitewater rafting on the Snake River or rock climbing in the park’s stunning canyon. In Yellowstone visit Old Faithful geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs, Thumb Geyser and the iconic Grand Prismatic Spring.

Create unforgettable memories under a blanket of stars. Finish up in the quaint streets of Bozeman. This is one of our favourite minimoon destinations in the USA.

Explore the hiking trails through red rock canyons and Virgin River of Zion National Park. Try the Emerald Pools trail or for something tougher or Angels Landing Trail, which has spectacular dramatic views.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must. Hike the Queen’s Garden Trail, which takes you past the park’s most iconic formations, including Thor’s Hammer and Queen Victoria.

Go horseback riding, rock climbing, and canyoneering. And when the sun goes down, the night sky comes alive with a dazzling display of stars.

The remote location and lack of light pollution make these parks some of the best places in the country for stargazing. Utah is truly one of the most wonderful minimoon destinations in the USA!

This is one of the most chic minimoon destinations in the USA.

The crisp air and majestic peaks provide a stunning backdrop for a range of outdoor activities, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Take a gondola ride to the top of Aspen Mountain for stunning views and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vibrant downtown area, lined with designer shops and quaint cafes, restaurants and bars.

A fashionable idyllic mountain retreat, ideal for a post-wedding getaway.

This is one of our favourite city minimoon destinations in the USA!

Book into one of the fun honeymoon hotels on the Strip and have a fun and frivolous post wedding getaway.

Enjoy the stunning pools, book a couple’s treatment at one of the amazing spas and enjoy romantic meals at some of America’s best dining establishments.

Take a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon with a champagne picnic on landing.

Enjoy the beautiful Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Garden. Take a gondola ride at the Venetian Hotel. There are a ton of things to do in Las Vegas for couples!

It’s no wonder that couples from all over the world flock to Sin City to celebrate their new lives together!

The beautiful red rock scenery is ideal for hiking and you can do everything from horse rides to kayaking on the Verde River.

Explore the wine regions and sip on Syrah. Marvel at the Chapel of the Holy Cross, built in to the red stone earth.

Hike Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock. Sedona has quaint shops, and the town is all about wellness. Explore the restaurant scene where Southern and Mexican influences collide.

Sedona’s dark skies offer incredible stargazing opportunities, so a night tour is a must see the cosmos stretch out in front of you.

Sedona is also a great jump off point to take a micro road trip minimoon to highlights like Horseshoe Bend, Antelope Canyon and the Grand Canyon.

West Coast Minimoon Destinations

Portland is a bohemian haven with a vibrant food, drink, and arts scene.

Take a romantic stroll through the lush Portland Japanese Garden or browse the quirky boutiques and vintage stores in the Alberta Arts District.

For outdoor adventures, head to Crater Lake National Park, in southern Oregon.

Take a leisurely hike around the rim of the crater and pristine blue lake with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

You can also take a dip in the cool waters or go kayaking to explore the hidden coves and islands.

Consider camping in the park and sleeping under the stars. Enjoy the lesser visited coastal towns such as Cannon Beach and Astoria (where the Goonies movie was filmed!).

Oregon is one of the most understated minimoon destinations in the USA.

Napa Valley is a picturesque world of vineyards, gourmet cuisine, and lovely hotels.

Just an hour north of San Francisco, the valley is home to over 400 wineries, ranging from small family-owned operations to sprawling estates, and produces some of the most sought-after wines in the world.

The region is dotted with charming towns, boutique shops, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants, making it one of the most popular minimoon destinations in the USA.

Take a scenic drive along the Silverado Trail. Or, even better, a bike ride to make your honeymoon more sustainable.

Pass by lush vineyards, rolling hills, old trees and quaint towns. Stop off at one of the many wineries along the way for a tasting or tour, or pack a picnic and enjoy a romantic lunch amid the vines.

Nearby Sonoma County is also worth exploring. Visit lesser-known regions like Dry Creek Valley. Discover beaches, redwoods and sip on Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir.

Take a hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards.

Whether you’re an oenophile or just looking for a luxury minimoon, northern California wine country is pure perfection.

There is something very special about the unspoiled natural beauty and the winding coastal highway with magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean.

Encounter hidden coves and secluded beaches where you can stop and soak up the sun. Explore the lush redwood forests and hike through the picturesque landscapes.

Have lunch at Nepenthe and explore McWay Falls. Watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at Pfeiffer Beach.

With its serene natural beauty and romantic atmosphere, Big Sur is the perfect California minimoon destination.

Please note: Due to regular rock fall, some parts of Big Sur can occasionally be closed, so it’s worth checking the USDA forest service website before travel.

Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s one of the sunniest minimoon destinations in the USA.

Enjoy the sand and ocean waves. Lie on the soft, golden sand, soak up the sun, and listen to the soothing sound of waves crashing on the shore.

Watch (or take part!) in the surf at Surfrider Beach in nearby Malibu. Enjoy the rocky landscape of El Matador State Beach.

Take a stroll down Venice beach, enjoy the bars of West Hollywood and take a tour of Beverly Hills.

Hike the Escondido Falls Trail for one of California’s tallest waterfalls.

Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, and then head to the iconic Santa Monica Pier for a romantic walk under the stars.

Joshua Tree is one of the most unique minimoon destinations in the USA.

Use the fun desert city of Palm Springs as a jump off point to the national park. Marvel at Cholla Cactus Garden, a surreal landscape of prickly cacti that glow in the golden light of the sun.

With its craggy peaks and rugged boulders, it’s a dream destination for rock climbers and hikers. Some of the darkest skies in the country can be found in Joshua Tree, making it an ideal location for stargazing, too.

One of the park’s most popular areas, Keys View, has panoramic views of the Coachella Valley and the San Andreas Fault. At sunset, the sky is painted in hues of pink, orange, and purple.

Explore the eclectic shops, galleries and dining establishments of Joshua Tree town. We’re obsessed with Joshua Tree!

It’s one of the most popular Hawaiian island for honeymoons, equally making it one of the best minimoon destinations in the USA!

Explore the Road to Hana. See the sunrise from Haleakala.

Hike the Waihe’e Ridge Trail and experience a traditional Hawaiian culture at a Luau. Swim with wild dolphins and turtles.

Jump off the cliffs at Black Rock at the end of Ka’anapali Beach before exploring the food scene in Kihei.

Discover why Maui is one of the best minimoon destinations in the USA!

East Coast Minimoon Destinations

Stunning scenery, quaint towns, and gastronomy are the names of the game! Step off the ferry and discover the coastal beauty, salty sea and sweet scent of wildflowers.

Explore the gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs or stroll through the picturesque streets of Edgartown.

For minimoon adventure-seeking couples, there are plenty of activities to keep you entertained, from kayaking and paddle boarding to hiking and biking.

Sunbathe on soft sands or take a dip in the refreshing North Atlantic Ocean.

Foodie couples will love the thriving culinary scene with plenty of fresh seafood, including oysters and lobster.

With its natural beauty and romantic charm, Martha’s Vineyard is amongst the most perfect minimoon destinations in the USA.

This legendary metropolis is packed full of romantic things to see and do, making it one of the best minimoon destinations in the USA.

Take a stroll or a horse carriage ride through the 800 acres of Central Park.

Have the most impeccable cuisine at a Michelin Star restaurant like Per Se. Enjoy the skyline on a bike ride over the Brooklyn Bridge.

Take a low-key stroll through the High Line. See a show or hit a rooftop bar.

Enjoy the art and artefacts at the Met Cloisters and beautiful park overlooking the Hudson. Enjoy the views from the Edge Observation Deck.

Shop for vintage, vinyl and sneakers. From the architecture to the food to the parks and people, New York is magic.

Lush forests, romantic walks, beautiful wineries and scenic hikes await along the Hudson River.

The region’s rich history and culture are reflected in its historic sites, art galleries, and museums. Visit Sleepy Hollow and the Rockefeller Mansion.

Hudson Valley’s culinary scene is a gastronomic delight, offering farm-to-table dining experiences and locally sourced ingredients.

Whether seeking tranquility amidst nature or indulging in cultural pursuits, Hudson Valley is one of the best minimoon destinations in the USA, just a short hop from New York City.

Explore idyllic countryside of rolling hills, meandering rivers, picturesque villages and lush verdant forests.

Whether it’s exploring the quaint streets of Burlington or indulging in the warmth of a cozy inn nestled in the Green Mountains, Vermont exudes a sense of tranquility.

Vermont’s vibrant food scene, with its emphasis on farm-to-table dining and craft breweries, is ideal for couples who love good food.

Cozy up next to a crackling fire with a glass of local wine, Vermont is one of the most serene minimoon destinations in the USA.

Southern Minimoon destinations

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame. Take a tour of the historic RCA Studio B, where legends like Elvis Presley and Dolly Parton recorded some of their most iconic hits.

From honky-tonks on Broadway to intimate singer-songwriter nights at the Bluebird Cafe, there are plenty of opportunities to experience the city’s vibrant music scene.

While we know Nashville for the music, the food scene is one of the best in the USA.

Indulge in some authentic Southern cuisine at places like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken or Prince’s Hot Chicken Shack.

You can also take a stroll through Centennial Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of the city with a replica of the Parthenon.

Learn about civil war history and the battle of Franklin. Nashville is a southern gem.

Not only does the town have a vibrant music, dining and art scene, surrounded by art déco architecture, it’s also home to beautiful forest scenery, perfect for an adventure.

Visit the iconic Biltmore Estate, a stunning mansion surrounded by lush gardens that provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of America’s Gilded Age.

Explore local restaurants and the cider and beer of local breweries. Hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway for beautiful breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

Explore the Great Smoky Mountains and the waterfalls of Pisgah National Forest. Asheville is one of our top picks for minimoon destinations in the USA.

Admire the sea views along Battery and the pastel Georgian architecture of Rainbow Row. Visit the Magnolia Plantation where the picturesque gardens belie its painful history of slavery.

Buy some wares at the historic Charleston City Market. Take a romantic horse carriage ride through the city, go on a prohibition-era speakeasy pub crawl.

Try the lowcountry southern cuisine. Eat oysters and drink cocktails in one of the city’s rooftop bars. Charleston is one of the best minimoon destinations in the USA for foodies.

Discover beautiful wooded hiking trails in the Santa Fe National Forest and Aspen Vista Trail. See the sun set on a horseback ride along a scenic ridge in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

Embark on a pueblo tour to learn about the fascinating history and culture. Visit the oldest church in the USA, San Miguel Chapel, in situ since the year 1610!

Explore the thriving arts scene along Canyon Road. Santa Fe was home to artist Georgia O’Keefe and a visit to the museum dedicated to her work is a must.

Soak in a hot spring for some moments of blissful post-wedding relaxation. Buy some Native American turquoise jewellery.

For stargazers, Santa Fe is also a good jumping-off point for New Mexico’s True Dark Skies Trail.

Did we mention the food? Order everything that includes green chiles and drink all the tequila! 

Visit one of the most famous landmarks in San Antonio, the UNESCO World Heritage listed, Alamo, the site of the famous 1836 battle.

Stroll along the picturesque River Walk that winds through downtown San Antonio along the San Antonio River.

Enjoy the Spanish-influenced architecture, charming bridges, colourful flowers, and lively restaurants and bars.

Explore the dining scene of Pearl district and El Mercado. Feast on the best of Tex Mex, fajitas and taco and mojitos – culinary heaven!

Theme park lovers will enjoy Six Flags Fiesta Texas, with thrilling rollercoasters.

Explore the natural beauty of the city by hiking or biking the trails at nearby Government Canyon State Natural Area. San Antonio is a jewel of minimoon destinations in the USA.

Take a stroll through the French Quarter and admire the ornate balconies and historic buildings.

Music lovers should head to Frenchmen Street to experience the electric atmosphere of the city’s best live music venues. From jazz and blues to funk and soul, it’s music heaven. Take an evening Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez.

From gumbo and jambalaya to po’boys and muffulettas, New Orleans food reflects the city’s diverse cultural heritage.

History buffs can explore the gut wrenching history of the USA on a tour of the Whitney Plantation.

Visit the swamps and maybe meet an alligator. New Orleans has so much going on, you’ll be planning an anniversary trip!

With world-class theme parks like Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, Universal Islands of Adventure and Busch Gardens, Orlando is not just for kids (although admittedly, it’s a pretty fun place for a familymoon!).

Treat yourselves to a skip-the-line ticket is an absolute must!

There is so more to this vibrant city than just Mickey Mouse ears. Take a trip to Blue Springs State Park for beautiful trails, kayaking and swimming. Don’t forget to explore the dining scene of downtown Orlando.

Explore the bars and clubs of this hedonistic city. Go shopping on Lincoln Road. Go jet skiing in Biscayne Bay.

You could even take a short mini cruise from Miami port or nearby Fort Lauderdale. Take a day trip to the Everglades or down to the Florida Keys.

Or, do nothing but lounge on South Beach all day, people watching and soaking up the Miami vibes.

Go snorkelling and parasailing. Visit the southernmost Point of continental USA.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and admire the Victorian homes, historic museums, and quaint art galleries.

Ernest Hemingway’s historic home and museum is a must for lovers of literature and history lovers will enjoy Harry S. Truman Little White House and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.

Enjoy the dining scene of Duval Street and Mallory Square and grab a beach towel and relax on Smather’s Beach.

Key West is up there with the most perfect beach minimoon destinations in the USA.

But, as Mexico is so accessible from most major North American cities, and there are so many great Mexican honeymoon destinations, it truly is one of the best minimoon destinations.

Sun, sand and tequila. Stunning hotels. Sun-kissed beaches of the Riviera Maya and Cabo. We couldn’t not mention it!

Cabo San Lucas, on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, has an average of 350 days of sunshine per year.

On the Riviera Maya, you’ll find a tropical paradise with white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and lush jungle landscapes. The region is home to ancient Mayan ruins and cenotes.

Enjoy a few days or a week of unadulterated luxury at an all-inclusive resort like Secrets or opt for a cute boutique hotel in Tulum or Todos Santos.