Cold winter days are melting away, which means it’s the ideal time for a sensational city escape.

By Paul Oswell | February 29, 2024

Longer, warmer days and a sunny jolt of seasonal energy make spring the ideal time to explore a new destination. A weekend jaunt in a new city brings ample opportunities to try new restaurants and attractions, as well as enjoy some long-awaited outdoor time. Here are our suggestions for a sensational urban escape.

Las Vegas

Nevada’s most exciting city is constantly evolving and reinventing itself and any weekend getaway here is sure to thrill. Las Vegas recently strutted onto the international sports stage by hosting its first professional high-octane race weekend, considered around town to be an outstanding success. The attraction that’s creating the biggest buzz right now, however, is The Sphere, a music and events venue unlike any other. Once inside, you’re surrounded by a cutting-edge audio-visual display that fully immerses you in different landscapes and backdrops to match the show. Meanwhile, the exterior emits enormous, lifelike projections that can be seen for miles.

For the most dramatic views of The Sphere and the Las Vegas Strip, consider a private helicopter tour, whisking you way above the neon landscape for some unforgettable photo-ops. During the day, you can also soar over the Grand Canyon, touching down long enough for a private sightseeing session, complete with a Champagne toast.

The glitz and glamour continue at Crockfords Las Vegas, LXR Hotels & Resorts, where suites with three bedrooms or more come with Crockfords’ concierge services, including butler service and morning light bites in the lobby. Guests also have access to an incredible array of fine dining options, including everything from Aqua Seafood & Caviar Restaurant to Crossroads, the first plant-based-inspired, high-end Italian restaurant on the Strip. After all the excitement, you can find some welcome peace and pampering at the endlessly indulgent Awana Spa. This serene sanctuary is thoughtfully designed with rounded treatment rooms and curved walls that envelop you in the holistic wellness experience. Try the signature World of Wellness massage, and you’ll leave the spa with your energy levels fully restored.

Washington

There’s no shortage of aesthetic beauty to be found in the historic architecture and striking monuments of the U.S. capital. Visit Washington in spring and you can bask in the seasonal spectacular that is the cherry blossom bloom. These beautiful trees frame the city in glorious pink flowers, and festivals are even held to celebrate one of nature’s most scenic shows.

To complement this feast for the eyes, Washington’s dining scene is one of the country’s most dynamic, with foodies flocking to its 24 Michelin-starred restaurants. For an especially unique fine dining experience, Pineapple and Pearls is the perfect spot to dress to impress and enjoy a high-end tasting menu with innovative deconstructed dishes such as its famous French toast with foie gras, blue cheese and black truffles. Inspired by the Studio 54 nightclub, this is the place to see and be seen.

Gaining a deeper appreciation of the capital’s historical context is the aim of the wonderful ‘DC In a Day’ tour. As one of the premium guest offerings at Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, the hotel can arrange a completely bespoke itinerary tailored to your specific interests. One of the most popular options offers a deep dive into the life of President Abraham Lincoln. A private guide will meet you at Mount Vernon, before stopping at important cultural sites such as Ford’s Theatre and Lincoln’s Cottage. After a day of sightseeing, head to Peacock Alley for a seasonal Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea before retreating to Waldorf Astoria Spa for rejuvenation in the Himalayan Salt Therapy Room or The Sanctuary, a relaxation area with tranquil resting cocoons. Conclude your day at the hotel’s Michelin-starred Sushi Nakazawa for an indulgent omakase dinner complemented with a choice of sake from one of the largest sake selections in North America.

Los Angeles

A long weekend in California is the perfect antidote to the winter blues, and if there’s ever a city that’s built around a love of the automobile, it’s Los Angeles. So consider renting a vintage car or perhaps a sportier convertible model during your stay. Drop the top and cruise around the affluent enclaves in Beverly Hills or feel the fresh ocean breeze along the Pacific Highway.

Los Angeles also has some of the world’s best restaurants with menus featuring the finest, freshest produce. Servers in designer uniforms deliver upscale Italian food at the Michelin-starred Gucci Osteria da Massimo Bottura, and in-the-know foodies line up at Nozawa Bar for arguably the best sushi in the state. Feel the healing rays of sunshine in scenic urban green spaces such as the Vista Hermosa Natural Park or take a short hike in the hills of the more famous Griffith Park, with its iconic observatory.

Observe bustling downtown from the rooftop terrace and private pool deck at Conrad Los Angeles, or enjoy creative culinary concoctions from Agua Viva, the hotel’s chic rooftop restaurant. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the architecturally unique hotel is perfectly located in downtown Los Angeles, providing easy access to the neighboring Walt Disney Concert Hall, Chinatown, Gloria Molina Grand Park, Grand Central Market and more, making it an idyllic home base for your weekend getaway.

A change of scenery is always a welcome break, and emerging from your winter hibernation is the ideal time to head for new horizons. A long weekend urban escape delivers everything you need for a new outlook, with culture, history and recreation all within easy reach. Warm up to the new season and break out your spring wardrobe for a reviving few days in a new destination.

Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana in the United States. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guide books/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.