We all love to get away now and then, but if you haven't got any spare vacation time, this isn't always possible. However, we have a solution for you. Wait until you have a long weekend off, for instance, over a holiday weekend, and then use the three or four days to jet off somewhere not too far afield! Assuming that you're based in the United States or Canada, any of these awesome North American locations would be a perfect place to spend a long weekend vacation. Let's take a look!
Ottawa is the seat of Canadian government and has a whole host of cultural and not-so-cultural things to do. There's a year-round festival season, some of the best museums in Canada, the world's largest skating rink, some excellent food, and much more.
If you'd like to see the quirky side of Texas, pay a trip to Austin. It's known for having an outstanding live music scene and plays host to some awesome festivals, such as SXSW. It's also home to the largest urban bat colony, if you're into that sort of thing. Strangely enough for Texas, it's also one of the vegan capitals of the US.
The Canadian side of Niagra Falls is worth visiting just for the falls themselves, but there's more on offer, too! There's a huge casino, the oldest haunted house in North America, and a butterfly conservatory nearby, so that should cover most bases.
Colorado Springs is the perfect place for nature-lovers to go on a weekend break. Old Colorado City, The Garden of the Gods, Manitou Springs, Pikes Peak, Red Rock Canyon… we could go on!
New Orleans is perhaps best known for its epic Mardi Gras celebrations, but it's an excellent place to visit at any time of year. It's famous for its nightlife and musical heritage, but there are also plenty of historic buildings to visit. 
Toronto is a vibrant and bustling multicultural city. There's no shortage of things to do. You could take in a Jays game, visit the CN tower, eat at one of the city's notorious food trucks, or stroll through the historic Distillery District, to name just a few options. 
Montreal is famous for it's excellent festivals, so perhaps try to time your visit to coincide with one of those. Highlights of the calendar include the Just for Laughs comedy festival, the International Jazz Festival and the Montreal Beer Festival.
Chicago is a city with more to offer than just wind! There are tons of cultural delights to take in, such as touring the Art Institute of Chicago, watching a band at Jazz Showcase (America's second oldest jazz club), or watching a play at one of the city's 200 theaters.
If you're into your music, country or otherwise, Nashville is a must-visit location. Check out the Country Music Hall of Fame and Jack White's Third Man Records. But, if music's not really your bag, the city still has plenty to offer from eating at the Pancake Pantry to shopping at Antique Archeology. 
Las Vegas. Sin City. Need we say more, really? Everyone should spend a debauched weekend in this city at least once in their lives. Remember, what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas.
Washington D.C is, of course, the nation's capital and is steeped with history. There are 155 monuments to visit, so you'll have to prioritize if you're only staying for a few days. 
Boston is perhaps only second to D.C. in terms of history. Check out the Freedom Trail, Boston Commons and you can't neglect to have a glass or two of the strong stuff at Cheers! Let's not forget all the delectable New England cuisine on offer!
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