Weekend getaways are a great way to escape the chaos of a hectic lifestyle. With little or no advance planning, you can jet off to another world and enjoy the fun of a mini-vacation, without worrying about missing any time at work. The easiest getaways are the places with direct flights, plenty of available accommodations, and interesting activities. This means large cities.
Sunny Orlando is a two- to three-hour flight from many places in the U.S. It has hundreds of hotels in all price ranges. The big draws here are the theme parks: Universal Studios, Disney World and Sea World. A stay at one of the three 4-star hotels on Disney's Monorail loop is ideal, such as the Contemporary Resort.
The monorail picks up passengers from each hotel lobby and whisks passengers directly to Disney parks and restaurants. You won't have to worry about renting a car or driving anywhere for your escape to another world.
Chicago is another easy-to-reach getaway, with sophistication and family fun. Stay downtown at a hotel on Michigan Avenue, such as the Peninsula. It's the heart of the city, with elegant shopping, great restaurants and fun activities all within walking distance.
See the city from high above at the top of the Hancock Building. Learn about architecture on a boat tour that winds through the city on the Chicago River. Visit Navy Pier for carnival fun, Second City for live improv shows, and the six-story American Girl tower for kids. Museums are a five-minute cab ride away.
The nation's capital is within easy reach and all the activity is just steps or a tram ride away. Stay in Georgetown at the Ritz or the Four Seasons to immerse yourself in the feel of the city. History is on every corner. Catch walking tours of historic homes and buildings.
Other big draws are the many Smithsonian museums and national monuments. Walk to the Capitol from the museums. Visit the National Archives for a peak at the Declaration of Independence. Call your congressman in advance to arrange a tour of the White House.
The Big Apple is a fun getaway for adults who love uptown shopping, food and entertainment. Stay at the newly refurbished Empire Hotel, steps from Lincoln Center. See a show there by ordering in advance, or get same-day tickets to a Broadway show at the famous TKTS booth in Times Square. Visit Chinatown and Little Italy. Stroll through Central Park, have tea at the Plaza Hotel, visit Tiffany's to pick out the jewels of your dreams, and make sure to get a blintz, hot dog or a pretzel from a street vendor.
