Hi everyone! We are a married couple in our late thirties, no kids, trying to plan a spring get-away in late April or early May-after Easter but before the kids get out of school. We are looking for ideas. We've been to New York City, Orlando, Chicago and San Francisco (enjoyed very much). We don't like sports or clubs and are looking for amazing scenery (especially nature), shopping and architecture. Due to time limits and frequent flyer miles, travel must be in the US or Canada. Any suggestions?? We are exploring Portland and/or Seattle.

Thanks, Katie

Sorry, I forgot to add also looking at Williamburg VA, Penns Amish country, Nantucket, Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, Boston and Vermont.

Here's a vote for Williamsburg.

The gardens should be in bloom, and the entire area is rich in history and various architecture. Consider going to Richmond too, and maybe a night in Virginia Beach- only for an evening in an oceanfront room with the surf pounding all night. Maybe a trip to DC too?

Williamsburg is big on outlet malls - I'm not a shopper myself, so I can't vouch for the quality. Airports you could use are RIC, PHF, ORF. (there is no x in my REAL eddress)

Katie, your description sounds a lot like my husband and I. I would highly recommend Nantucket at that time. I have spent summers on Ntckt and always said the best time of the summer is early May before all the "amatures" get there. Its cool (pack sweaters)and quiet and most everything is open for the season (good B&B rates, too). We love Vermont, too but I wouldnt say spring is the best time to go there. I have never been to Banff, Canada but have seen amazing documentaries on the town and the Lake Louise area (you get a lot more for your $$ in Canada, too). Lots of nature things to see and experience there as well. Hope this helps. Have a great trip.

Maybe S.C (Charlston,) or Pennsylvania, Bucks County,many outlet malls, (Reading,) Antique shops, beautiful scenery that time of year. Quaint B & B's. Williamsburg Va. also nice. Other thoughts are Canada. Colorado is a beautiful state. Arizona offers a different type of scenery.

Thanks for the replies and suggestions! We will keep you updated.

What about Lake Tahoe or New Orleans? Lake Tahoe is quite scenic and has plenty of activities to keep you busy. New Orleans is a lively city with great restaurants and historical sites.

There is an island off Seattle called Whidbey Island. My husband and I went there about 3/4 years ago and stayed in an inn called "Inn at Langley" -- Almost too good to share. Great little "artsy" village/town. Good hiking, a nice small winery, views of the mountains and you're right on the Saratoga Passage. Can't beat it for relaxation. If you like nature, this is it. We flew into Seattle, drove north to Vancouver, ferried through the San Juans to Victoria - one night there and then ferried to Whidbey Island. So nice, I might do it again.

Phoenix (and Scottsdale) are beautiful in the Spring. Lots to do. Can take day trips up to Sedona to see the very scenic red rocks. Great hotels and resorts. Weather is fabulous up until mid to late April.

ttt

I vote for Arizona, specifically the Scottsdale area. Not only is there a lot to see and do in the way of great resorts, shopping, and dining out. But, you are surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery and you're only a short drive away from lakes, natural bridges (in Payson), forests, etc. Being into architecture as you are, you may be aware that Frank Lloyd Wrignt has designed several things out here, and his former home "Taliesin West" is in North Scottsdale offering tours daily.

Thanks for the suggestions!

It is a bit threadbare and not so comfortable but remarkably fun to just hop on the Amtrak and see remote parts of the US West. Canadian railway can be even better. Most people will turn up their noses at this but nearly all of them will never have set foot onto an Amtrak train. If you have a fun personality this type of trip can be very enjoyable (snobs excepted).

I suggest Vancouver, British Columbia. Should fit the bill nicely.

Go back to San Francisco and spend a night or two in a city that you love, then drive down the coast. A few nights in Santa Barbara, a couple of nights in Laguna, then San Diego. Perfect time of year for this, great weather, low rates until school lets out, you'll have a great time.