SEA
Anywhere from Seattle
Seattle’s own mountains are wonderful. A wish from here is often sun, or a city with a different kind of rain.
These are places with enough of a reason to leave Seattle-Tacoma, not a thin list of every airport code we know. Prices are not shown here because a fare without a live source would be a guess.
San Diego
Mild weather and a city you can enjoy without a packed schedule.
March through June and September through November. June can be gray in the morning and perfect by lunch.
Maui
Beach and mountain in one island, if the fare cooperates.
April through May and September through November for a little more space on the beach.
Cabo San Lucas
A West-Coast-friendly beach trip, often nonstop from California and the Southwest.
November through May. Late summer is hotter and more humid, with the chance of a storm.
Las Vegas
Flights are frequent, and a midweek stay can land inside a modest budget.
March through May and October through November, when the desert is walkable.
Chicago
A big-city weekend that is often cheaper than the coasts.
May through October, with June and September especially kind. Winter is a real coat.
Banff
A national-park town with a real main street, not only a lodge in the trees.
June through September for lakes and trails. December through March for snow, with shorter days.