Best 7 Workcation Destinations in the United States
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In a world where remote work has become more of a norm, the concept of a “workcation” has gained more popularity.
I’ve made it a point to take a few working vacations a year now that I work remotely.
It’s a great way to explore new places when your PTO days run out and get a change of scenery from the day in and day out of your home.
Why confine yourself to your home office when you can take your job on the road and explore some of the most captivating workcation destinations the United States has to offer?
Whether you’re seeking inspiration from natural wonders or looking to immerse yourself in vibrant city life, I’ve curated my list of the top 8 workcation destinations in the United States.
These places not only provide a productive workspace but also offer opportunities to unwind, reset, and explore while maintaining that work-life balance.
Top Workcation Destinations
As boundaries between work and day-to-day life continue to blur in this post pandemic world, a new trend has emerged.
Working Vacations, a mix of work and vacation. This idea is no longer only for digital nomads.
The everyday 9-5 corporate remote worker can now experience this location independent luxury. Let’s dive into how to find your next workcation destination.
In this post, we’ll chat about my top seven workcation destinations in the United States.
For each location, I’ve taken into consideration professional productivity, transportation, and exploration in your free time.
Whether you’re looking for an escape to nature or a new city with new activities, one of these destinations provides the ideal location to embrace your remote lifestyle while indulging in your desire to travel.
1. Albuquerque, New Mexico
Albuquerque is such a unique place with delicious food and vibrant culture.
When I was there, the Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival was happening drawing balloon enthusiasts from all around the world to come to New Mexico and fly their balloons.
Don’t get me started on the food! Being so close to the Mexican border, Albuquerque serves up a delicious mix of flavors that’ll leave you wanting more.
Best time to go to Albuquerque:
There really isn’t a bad time to go to Albuquerque as the weather is always favorable.
The coolest months are December – February when the high is 55 degrees and the low can fall to 25 degrees.
The most popular and most expensive time to travel to Albuquerque is the fall.
I visited in October and experienced warm weather and the balloon festival!
If you are looking to hit perfect weather and skip the crowd, I’d recommend taking a working vacation to Albuquerque in the spring.
While it can still be chilly it can also climb to the high 70s.
Where to stay in Albuquerque for a working vacation:
The three locations I would recommend staying for a working vacation are either Old Town, Downtown, or Midtown.
All are very walkable so you can save on having to rent a car for the duration of your trip.
Old Town is a great option because it’s affordable with plenty of activities for when you’re off work like museums, nearby parks and trails, and lots of restaurants!
Here you’ll experience a beautiful town built back in the 1700s. If you’re a Breaking Bad fan, you’ll also find a Breaking Bad gift shop located in Old Town.
Things to do in Albuquerque:
There are so many unique experiences in Albuquerque.
You’ll have to make time for a hot air balloon ride! You’ll get beautiful views of Albuquerque from the air.
When you’re off work, make sure to find a restaurant with green chili – they are known for it!
Some of my favorite restaurants were Monroe’s, Frontier Restaurant, and Rudy’s BBQ.
If you are looking to take a day trip, consider making your way to Sante Fe just an hour drive away.
This is a place for creatives.
Here you can discover the art markets, historic Native American sites, different art classes, and my favorite – Meowwolf.
Meowwork is an immersive art installation where you can walk through fridges and washing machines into new dimensions.
2. Tampa, Florida
I could be a bit biased on this workcation destination since I live here but you can’t beat the sunshine and nearby beaches Tampa has to offer.
If you choose to venture down to Tampa for your working vacation, I recommend coming either January or February or any time between April and June.
Best time to go to Tampa:
January and February have absolutely perfect weather sitting between 70-76 degrees.
It’s a great escape from the northern cold.
However, if you are looking for beach time, the water can be chilly then.
From April to June, it will be warm enough to go to the beaches, you skip the spring break crowd (a huge perk of working vacations), and it’s not too hot yet.
The temperature is usually between 75-85 degrees in those months.
Where to stay in the Tampa Bay Area for a working vacation:
Where you want to stay will depend on what you want to do when you’re there.
If you want more of a city experience, I recommend finding a VRBO in Channelside.
Channelside is at the heart of downtown Tampa, right on the water. You wouldn’t need a car as it’s extremely walkable.
If you want the walkable city experience but less of a crowd, consider staying in downtown St. Petersburg just across the bay.
I used to live in downtown St. Pete and personally prefer it to downtown Tampa (which is a very controversial topic in this area).
If you are a beach girly through and through there are some of the top beaches in the United States within 30 min or less of Tampa.
Keep an eye on VRBO listings, as you can easily find a little condo on the beach.
Things to do in the Tampa Bay Area:
If you are staying in downtown Tampa, you have to walk along the Riverwalk and stop at the popular eatery Armature Works or the historic restaurant Columbia Cafe.
There are lots of things to do in Channelside such as shopping and stopping in the Florida Aquarium.
After the aquarium, stop by Sparkman’s Wharf, another outdoor eatery, to enjoy some food and a beautiful view of the bay.
If you are staying in St. Petersburg, you must go to the St. Pete Pier.
Recently rebuilt in 2020, there are many attractions, restaurants, and things to do on the pier.
You could spend several days exploring the pier and different restaurants in Downtown St. Pete.
Regardless of where you’re staying, you’ll want to make your way to the beach! If you are looking to steer clear of crowds. I’d recommend Madeira Beach or Treasure Island.
3. Sonoma, CA
If you are looking for perfect weather, beautiful views, and some wine, Sonoma is one of the best places to work and travel in the USA!
Located just 20 minutes from Napa Valley, this area is home to some of the most well-known vineyards in the country.
Just think, you could log off work, and make it just in time for an evening tasting.
Best time to go to Sonoma for a Working Vacation:
You can expect to see higher prices and more crowds in the summer and fall months as well as holidays.
If you are looking to skip the crowds but still have good weather. March through May would be the best time to go.
It would be spring, so everything would be in full bloom!
The weather from March to May usually averages anywhere from 60-75 degrees. Perfect weather if you ask me.
Where to stay in Sonoma for a working vacation:
I chose Sonoma over Napa for this list because inevitably Napa being the more popular destination will be a bit more expensive.
Sonoma is about a 25-minute drive from Napa Valley and still offers a beautiful downtown and all the wineries you’ll be looking for while being a bit more affordable and not as touristy.
I recommend staying in downtown Sonoma so that you don’t need a car throughout the week while you’re working.
Sonoma is very walkable with lots to do.
With coffee shops on every corner, you’ll have plenty of spots to work if you want to get out of your rental for the day.
Things to do in Sonoma:
In downtown Sonoma, you’ll find museums, restaurants, and several parks.
You can check out the Sonoma Overlook Trail before or after work which is an easy 2.5 mile hike walking distance from downtown.
Wineries
There are several wineries and tasting rooms if you are looking for something within walking distance on Napa Street in downtown Sonoma.
However, if you are looking for a true vineyard experience, check out Hanzell Vineyards, Buena Vista Wineries, Gundlach Bundschu Winery, or Scribe Winery.
All within a 10-15 minute drive from downtown, depending on where you’re staying.
If you are looking for a tour, consider taking the 3 hour Guided Wine Country Tour in Sonoma on Electric Trike!
I always recommend tours, if you are taking your working vacation by yourself because it can get lonely!
It’s a great way to meet people while you’re there.
4. Bryson City, North Carolina
I took a working vacation in Bryson City in December and absolutely loved it.
Have you seen Gilmore Girls?
If you’re a Gilmore Girls fan, this is the small, cozy mountain town you’re looking for.
Decked out head to toe for Christmas. Every single evening, people were dressed in matching pajamas – major GG vibes.
What sets Bryson City apart is its Appalachian culture.
Everyone there was very welcoming taking pride in their town, making it a great place to experience authentic Appalachian traditions and hospitality.
Bryson City’s slower pace of day-to-day life and integration with the nature surrounding the town make it a relaxing escape to the mountains to reset.
Best time to go to Bryson City for a Working Vacation:
The best time to go to Bryson City depends on what you’re looking for. Because it’s a smaller town, it never feels overly crowded.
If you’re a big hiker and an outdoorsy person, I recommend going any time between June and October when trails are still open and outdoor activities are still available.
If you are looking for Christmasy cozy winter vibes, I recommend going November-December when things are decorated, holiday festivities are happening and the weather can still climb to 50-60 degrees.
Things to do in Bryson City:
You can find activities in Bryson City year round from hiking, fishing, rafting, train rides, tastings, and more.
Make sure to take a ride on the Great Smoky Mountain Railroad, a 52-mile train ride through the mountains.
There are several great restaurants right in downtown Bryson City.
Some of my favorites were the High Test Deli, The Bistro at Everett Hotel, Nate and Nick’s Pizza, and La Poblana Mexican Restaurant.
On the weekends, I made my way to Gatlinburg, TN and Asheville, NC for day trips.
Both towns are a little over an hour away.
They are larger cities that are a bit more touristy but have a lot more to explore!
5. Asheville, North Carolina
If the small-town vibe of Bryson City is not for you and you’re looking for a larger city in the mountains, Asheville could be your next workcation destination.
The unique city known for its bohemian vibe, Asheville offers different experiences for anyone.
The city’s downtown area is a hub of creativity, with art galleries, boutiques, and craft breweries.
Just a short drive away you can access the mountains and partake in all sorts of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, taking scenic drives, and more.
The Best Time to go to Asheville for a working vacation:
Similarly to Bryson City, the best time to go to Asheville depends on what your preferences in activities are.
October is a very popular time to go if you are looking to see the beautiful fall foliage the Smoky Mountains have to offer.
The summer months from June to September are going to be perfect for outdoor activities.
Where to stay in Asheville for a working vacation:
If you are looking to stay in a place that’s very walkable to restaurants and local shops, I recommend staying in downtown Asheville.
Staying downtown will be a bit more expensive though.
If you are looking for something a bit more secluded and away from the busyness, consider booking your accommodations in Grove Park.
You may need a rental car here but downtown Asheville is about a 45-minute walk if you are feeling up to it.
Another great area is the River Arts District. If you’re a creative, this workcation destination in Asheville could be the perfect spot.
About a 25-minute walk to downtown, you probably won’t need a rental car unless you plan on taking day trips into the mountains.
In the River Arts District, you’ll find several museums, cafes, and art classes you can take while you’re off work.
Things to do in Asheville:
There are so many things to do in and near Asheville.
If you aren’t driving there, I definitely recommend renting a car on the weekend to take a day trip to Gatlinburg or venture into the mountains to hike one of the famous trails such as the Alum Cave Trail or Chimney Tops.
In Asheville, there are several coffee shops you could work from such as Summit Coffee in the River Arts District or Izzy’s Coffee Den downtown.
In your free time, you can visit nearby popular attractions like the Biltmore Estate, shop local businesses downtown, or find a nearby trail.
6. Evergreen, Colorado
Another beautiful location to work and travel in the U.S. that I may be biased toward is Evergreen, Colorado.
I lived a short 30 minutes away from Evergreen for 3 years. I chose Evergreen for this list because of its location and cost.
There are so many beautiful places you can go to in Colorado that it’s hard to choose!
Evergreen gives you a good balance of mountains and is a short downtown Denver.
It will also be more affordable than staying in some of your more popular mountain towns like Vail or Breckenridge.
The Best Time to go to Evergreen for a Working Vacation:
Colorado can have favorable weather year round depending on the sort of activities you are into.
If you are looking to ski or snowboard on your days off, resorts start opening in October and closing in April or May.
The best time to go for outdoor activities is as early as May however if you are a big hiker and want to do 14ers, snow doesn’t clear from the mountains until July or August.
Fall is also a beautiful time to come to experience the Rocky Mountain fall foliage.
Where to stay in Evergreen for a working vacation:
It is possible to go to Evergreen and spend your time there without renting a car as it does have a small downtown that offers plenty of restaurants and shops.
Depending on where you are staying in Evergreen, getting around can be difficult without a car.
However, regardless of where you’re staying in Colorado, I do recommend renting a car if you didn’t drive at least for the weekends to take day trips either to the mountains to places like Breckenridge, Vail, or Aspen or to downtown Denver.
Evergreen is a great starting point for wherever you may want to go.
Things to do in Evergreen:
Evergreen, is the gateway to so many outdoor activities!
For this workcation destination, I definitely recommend having a car to truly experience everything Colorado has to offer.
You have to visit Evergreen Lake during the work week and maybe take morning strolls around the water.
I always loved heading to EverBean By the Lake to get work done with a beautiful view of the lake and mountains.
If you are looking for trails with greater difficulty that are close by Evergreen, I recommend Three Sisters, Dedisse, and Hidden Fawn Trail, a 6.2 mile round trip trail, or Alderfer, Three Sisters, Evergreen Mountain, and Dedisse Trail which is a 13-mile loop.
7. Jackson Hole, Wyoming
If you are looking for a more “western” Rocky Mountain experience, book Jackson Hole as your next workcation destination.
On your days off, you can check out the nearby Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone to hike, spot wildlife, or ski if you plan on going in the winter.
The local food scene and artisanal shops are a great way to spend your time during the week in your downtime from work.
The Best Time to go to Jackson Hole for a Working Vacation:
The busiest seasons tend to be July through August.
You can skip the crowds and experience nice weather from April to June and September through October.
November through March is the winter season, if you are a big skier or snowboarder.
Where to stay in Jackson Hole for a working vacation:
I recommend staying in either Teton Village, Jackson Hole’s Town Square, or North Jackson Hole where it’s a bit more secluded.
If you’re leaning towards Teton Village, it will be a bit pricier because it’s where all the ski resorts are.
You’ll have quick access to hiking trails and the ski slopes. Staying near Jackson Hole’s Town Square puts you by the local shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
Town Square is very walkable. If you want a more secluded workcation destination, consider North Jackson Hole.
Things to do in Jackson Hole:
If you like to ski or snowboard the Jackson Hole slopes here are some of the best in the country.
The hiking trails in Grand Teton National Park are just as amazing if winter activities aren’t for you.
On a day off, make sure to stop in at The National Museum of Wildlife Art and experience the beauty of nature through various art forms.
If you’re in town during May-August, the Jackson Hole Rodeo is as authentic as it gets!
Book Your Next Workcation Destination:
When booking your next workcation destination.
Make sure to message your hotel or rental host and ask them to run an internet speed test so you can ensure you have the speeds you’ll need to work.
Use VRBO to book your next working vacation at a discounted monthly rate:
Wrapping Up
When it comes to the best workcation destinations in the United States, there are plenty of options to choose from.
However, if I had to pick my number one favorite location on this list, it would undoubtedly be Bryson City.
I loved its cozy vibes and small mountain town charm, Bryson City offers the perfect balance between work and leisure.
The beauty of the surrounding mountains, coupled with the friendly locals, creates a welcoming atmosphere that is hard to resist.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in nature during your breaks, Bryson City is the spot.
If you’re ready to book your next working vacation, learn more about planning your workcation and making the most of your time away.
Let me guide you towards a seamless and fulfilling experience that combines work and adventure seamlessly. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity!
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