8 North American Cities You Can Totally Do In A Summer Weekend

Nashville and Houston and Montreal — oh my! This summer, you deserve a weekend getaway. These eight cities (and Marriott!) are poised to offer a relaxing seasonal escape. Best rates guaranteed at Marriott.com.

1. Nashville

Why it works in a weekend: Nashville may be the bachelorette-weekend capital of the United States, but that doesn't mean it isn't just as appropriate for a variety of weekend expeditions. Whether your thing is live music, historic monuments, or just really good barbecue, Nashville can offer a little taste of just about everything.

Where to stay: The breathtaking Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center (which just happens to be home to SoundWaves, a new ~upscale water experience~).

2. St. Louis

Why it works in a weekend: You can pack in a lot of culture in a few short days, including a trip to the Cardinals' Busch Stadium, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and, of course, the un-missable Gateway Arch.

Where to stay: The perfectly situated Courtyard St. Louis Downtown/Convention Center.

3. Houston

Why it works in a weekend: Catch a show beneath the stars at the Miller Outdoor Theatre on a Friday, rent a BCycle and hit the scenic streets of Houston on a Saturday, then get cultured with a visit to the city's museum district on Sunday. Fill the space in between with dining and you've got the perfect Houston weekend in the palm of your hand.

Where to stay: The very trendy Four Points by Sheraton Houston — CITYCENTRE.

4. Baltimore

Why it works in a weekend: There's much more to Baltimore than just Inner Harbor (which, you know, is pretty great itself). Sailing the Chesapeake Bay, exploring the rich history of Fort McHenry, and brunch in Fells Point are must-stops for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the culture of Maryland's biggest city in just a few days.

Where to stay: The urban retreat that is the Renaissance Baltimore Harborplace Hotel.

5. Anaheim

Why it works in a weekend: Anaheim has a lot to offer in the way of Disney-tinged attractions. Because it is considerably smaller than its juggernaut of a sister resort in Orlando, Disneyland can be experienced swiftly and in full in just one weekend.

Where to stay: The equally new and convenient Anaheim Residence Inn at Anaheim Resort/Convention Center.

6. Fort Lauderdale

Why it works in a weekend: Fort Lauderdale is a metropolis steeped in a diverse environmental landscape, where you can dive headfirst into the fresh water lagoons of Hugh Taylor Birch State Park (metaphorically speaking, that is), sprawl out on the city's expansive beaches with a good book, or go window-shopping along East Las Olas Boulevard all in one sun-drenched weekend.

Where to stay: The Dalmar, Fort Lauderdale, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, which is a scenic dream.

7. Kansas City

Why it works in a weekend: In Kansas City lies decades' worth of history and culture. If you've only got a weekend? We've got you covered. Must-sees include: the National World War I Museum and Memorial, the Crown Center, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, and World of Fun amusement park...to name a few!

Where to stay: Located in the heart of downtown, The Westin Kansas City at Crown Center offers a complimentary shuttle to the city's most popular attractions.

8. Toronto

Why it works in a weekend: Of course, no weekend voyage to Toronto is complete without a trip to the top of the CN Tower, inarguably the city's most famed landmark. But that's not all: Toronto Island Park offers lush, scenic photo opportunities, St. Lawrence Market is a treat for the most avid of foodies, and the Edwardian castle that is Casa Loma is something out of a real-life fairy tale.

Where to stay: The chic Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel.

Images from Getty/iStock

With summer rates from $125 through Labor Day, booking your weekend getaway with Marriott couldn't be more convenient! Book today, and sign up for a free Marriott Bonvoy membership to start earning rewards.