Upgraded Points' newest study reveals that a honeymoon getaway doesn't have to mean international flights or a big savings fund. By analyzing the most vacation-worthy cities in the U.S. based on 15 ranking factors, the results highlight the very best domestic honeymoon destinations.

"Honeymooners don't always have to go far away to find the romance and adventure they're looking for," said Keri Stooksbury, editor-in-chief at Upgraded Points. "The right destination will allow couples to skip long-haul flights and dive straight into unforgettable adventures, all without leaving the U.S."




Study Methodology

The study scored the best domestic honeymoon destinations by focusing on over 75 popular vacation spots, which were evaluated under summer conditions (June through September) to reflect the most popular honeymoon season. Each destination was assessed across 15 ranking factors, grouped into three key categories:

1. Romance appeal: Measured by the number of romantic lodging options and restaurants per 10,000 residents (using specialized "romantic" filters) and honeymoon-specific attractions gauged through attraction tags and traveler sentiment.


2. Affordability: Evaluated by the average cost of romantic stays, a 5-night Airbnb stay with a view, flight costs to the nearest major airport, and the price of a three-course dinner for two.


3. Experience: Determined by the availability of couple-friendly attractions such as spas, wineries, hiking trails, destination walk scores, average summer temperatures, days of rain, and peak travel crowd levels.

Each factor was normalized on a 0-to-5 scale, with 5 representing the most favorable conditions. Weighted scores were combined to yield a total score out of 100, with higher scores revealing destinations that offer the ideal mix of romance, affordability, and memorable experiences.

Some Key Takeaway Points

• Miami Beach, Florida – Coastal Romance at Its Finest:
  
  Miami Beach tops the list for 2025 with an impressive 7.72 romantic stays and 32.33 romantic restaurants per 10,000 residents.


• Lake Tahoe, California – Nature and Nuptials Combined:
  
  Lake Tahoe blends breathtaking scenery with romance, boasting 223 hiking trails and the highest density of spas at 21.10 per 10,000 people for a rejuvenating escape.


• Orlando, Florida – A Wonderland for Couples:
  
  Orlando rounds out the top three with 224 couple-friendly attractions and 52 honeymoon-specific experiences.


• Provo, Utah – Affordable Love:
  
  Provo stands out for budget-conscious newlyweds with romantic stays averaging just $73 per night and flight costs around $126, making it the most affordable destination on the list.


• San Francisco, California – The Ultimate Honeymoon Experience:
  
  San Francisco leads in overall romance, featuring 307 couple-friendly attractions, a highly walkable urban environment, and the mildest summer weather among top-ranked cities.

Top Ten Best U.S. Cities for Stateside Honeymoons

1. Miami Beach, Florida – 71.40 out of 100
2. Lake Tahoe, California – 67.50
3. Orlando, Florida – 64.80
4. Napa, California – 62.50
5. Palm Springs, California – 62.10
6. Savannah, Georgia – 60.00
7. Key West, Florida – 58.90
8. Las Vegas, Nevada – 58.10
9. Monterey, California – 58.00
10. Austin, Texas – 57.80