Few things in life are better than a vacation purely dedicated to relaxation. No plans, no packed itineraries, just a true escape from it all. While the U.S. has plenty of impressive metropolises and crowded beaches, the country also has its fair share of wide open spaces that are perfect for rejuvenating both body and mind. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot in the sand beneath swaying palm trees or a true luxury getaway, relaxing U.S. vacation spots aren’t difficult to find, but here are a few of our favorites.

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona, Arizona is a hiker's paradise, wellness seeker's respite, and fortress of tranquility. Known for its spiritual vortices with healing energy, this red rock city has an endless stream of spas, meditation centers, and yoga hubs that could easily keep you blissfully un-busy for weeks on end. Home to one of the most acclaimed wellness retreats in the United States, Amara Resort & Spa, you can splurge big time for a treat-yourself moment, or reconnect with your inner voice in a silent retreat at Satya. If it’s retail therapy you seek, look no further than the Tlaquepaque Arts and Crafts Center in downtown Sedona. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave feeling refreshed from head to toe.

Islamorada, Florida

More far-flung than its hotspot neighbor Key West, Islamorada has all the perks of the Florida Keys without the fuss of tourist hordes and kitschy attractions. Translated directly to “Purple Island,” this tropical getaway is best known for its sleepy stretches of sand and excellent fishing, but it’s also an idyllic place to hide away. Cerulean water, powdered sugar beaches, and fresh seafood await visitors who choose this Floridian outlier. Shack up at the colonial Moorings Village with its shady lawn and kayak-accessible beach and don’t miss out on a slice of key lime pie or conch fritters with views of the sun dipping into the sea.  

Glen Arbor, Michigan

While Mackinac Island deservedly receives a lot of Michigan hype, Glen Arbor is just what the doctor ordered for those looking for a tranquil escape. Voted as one of “The Most Beautiful Places in America” by Good Morning America, Glen Arbor is just small enough to be relaxing while still offering plenty to do, from art galleries to restaurants and breweries. This also happens to be Michigan wine country and there are several vineyards to dapple in both in town and just outside. For those who find respite in exercise, the nearby Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes provide both striking views over the turquoise water of Lake Michigan, and a challenge in trying to reach their towering precipice. Spend your days kayaking along the lake or biking through the quaint downtown, and nights at fine dining spectaculars like the waterfront Blu, or the more laid-back Cherry’s Public House, which offers up delicious American fare with a twist on Michigan’s famous cherries.

Yakima, Washington

While living it up in Napa’s swanky wine estates and upscale restaurants might be nice, why not try a quieter wine country escape? Washington’s Yakima Valley has been quietly producing some of the best Chardonnay and Merlot in America for years, with classically beautiful landscapes to match. There are over 90 wineries to explore, but if viticulture does tickle your fancy you could also check out one of Yakima Hop Country’s 20 breweries. Nestled in the shadow of the stratovolcano, Mount Rainier, whose peak punctuates the rolling, golden hills, the Yakima Valley’s Garden of Eden vibes continue with farmer’s markets and endless U-Pick options in the warmer months from cherries to berries.

Stowe, Vermont

Tucked away in the Green Mountains, Stowe is one of Vermont’s premier ski resorts, but visitors can find a tranquil retreat any time of year. Summer brings weekend farmer’s markets with locally grown organic produce, farm-to-table meals, and dips in Lake Champlain, while fall ushers in a flush of autumn foliage followed swiftly by quilts of heavy winter snow. Solitude is never far away in Stowe but one of the best ways to find a quiet slice of paradise is to book a wooded cabin. If you do decide to venture out from your palace of peace, don’t miss Top Notch Resort’s restaurant, Flannel, for the perfect pairing of craft cocktails and sweeping mountain vistas, or one of the countless excellent breweries in town.