Do something out of the ordinary this summer and head to one of these uncommon vacation spots for your next summer getaway.
1. Chicago
Summer in the Windy City is a must. With miles of lakefront and freshwater beaches, you can see all of downtown by water with tours and water taxis. Chicago also hails as one of the top culinary cities for a reason. Sip on a hand-crafted cocktail at The Violet Hour, bite into deep-dish pizza at Gino’s, or take in the scenery at City Winery.
It wouldn’t be Chicago without the Magnificent Mile. Brunch at 676 Restaurant on the 4th floor of Omni Chicago Hotel is the perfect way to take in the views and the beauty of the city (we highly recommend the banana bread pancakes—they’re life-changing). Right next door is Chicago’s crown jewel, Michigan Avenue. If you’re a shopper, this is your paradise a.k.a blocks of luxury fashion shops and boutiques.
Photo by: @karli_willis
Chicago is best known lately for its photo ops. First up is Millenium Park, home of the infamous Cloud Gate sculpture… better known as The Bean. For the more adventurous, there’s Willis Tower where you can sightsee from 110 stories up in a glass encasement. This one’s for you sports fans—Wrigley Field! The iconic home of the 2016 World Series Champion Chicago Cubs is a noteworthy photo spot, in-season or out.
2. Hot Springs
History and southern hospitality come together in Hot Springs for the ultimate summer vacation spot. The hidden gem of Bath County, Hot Springs, Virginia provides opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
Calling all history buffs! The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs has been standing for more than 250 years as America’s first resort. Over 20 sitting and former presidents have made visits to the hotel, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Bill Clinton to name a few. The historic resort boasts a full-service spa with hot springs fed pools and river reflexology.
Photo by: @chrisstach
Travelers of all ages will discover plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy during a Virginia vacation. The Omni Homestead Resort offers a myriad of family-fun activities: archery, horse-back riding, shooting, fly fishing, zip lines and more. The most popular: Falconry, or as some say, the sport of kings. Guests can participate in a field sports tradition that stretches back nearly 4,000 years.
Photo by: @hannahnoel124
Take a trip off the beaten path and spend your summer experiencing the old-world charm of Hot Springs—we promise, there’s nothing quite like it.
3. Boston
Instead of the beach or the pool, try something new this year for your summer vacation. That’s right, Boston. Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Fenway Park… need we say more?
History abounds in Boston. The Nichols House Museum dates back to 1804, and the Boston Athenaeum is one of the oldest independent libraries in the United States. The Freedom Trail is a can’t-miss. The 2.5-mile trail takes you on a journey through 16 historical landmarks and locations. Boston Common is another historical spot for the outdoor explorer. Serving as the oldest park in the U.S, Boston Common dates all the way back to 1634.
Photo by: @camille-cardona
No doubt about it, the best part about Boston is the pie. The true, original Boston Cream Pie is a culinary creation from Omni Parker House. Taste and see for yourself why it’s so famous at Parker’s Restaurant!
4. Houston
As the nation’s fourth-largest city, Houston serves up world-class dining, shopping, entertainment and nightlife with a side of Southern hospitality and Texas flair.
The beauty of the Bayou City is best seen at Hermann Park Conservancy, the McGovern Centennial Gardens, and Cherie Flores Garden Pavilion. The gardens boast 15-acres of lush greens, sculptures and more for your enjoyment.
Some may be surprised to hear that Houston is a foodies’ paradise with over 10,000 restaurants representing cuisine from more than 70 countries. The burger options are a fan favorite with unique offerings at Lankford Grocery and Bernie’s Burger Bus.
Photo by: @_anna_english
Shopping may be what Houston is best known for. The Galleria in the heart of Uptown is the largest mall in Texas and the 9th largest in the United States. Featuring over 400 stores and dining outlets, there’s something for everyone. Omni Houston Hotel is just one mile from the mall.
5. Pittsburgh
Steel City Summer, anyone? Pittsburgh isn’t your typical summer vacation destination, but it will always be one of our favorites. The city offers classic cuisine, enthralling American history, breathtaking views, and more.
Photo by: @breadheadbistro
The Strip District is the ultimate spot for shopping, site-seeing, and dining. Originally an industrial neighborhood, the area was redone and filled with specialty boutiques and international shops housed in Pittsburgh’s iconic brick buildings. Don’t forget the food! Caribbean, Peruvian, Argentinian, and Vietnamese are just a few of the delicious international fares that are offered.
Everyone can get their art fix at the Andy Warhol Museum and the Mattress Factory. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, the museum is a chronicle of Warhol’s life and work with 17 galleries and more than 12,000 of the artist’s pieces. The Mattress Factory is nearby for an uncommon art exhibition experience. The factory is a contemporary installation-based museum where each exhibit is made specifically for the space it resides in.
Pittsburgh takes it back to the ‘20s at Omni William Penn Hotel’s Speakeasy. Recently named by Thrillist as one of “12 Most Essential Bars in Pittsburgh,” it’s a must-see. The prohibition-era bar is tucked just beneath the hotel lobby and serves up classic Manhattan’s and 1920’s noir vibes. Shh…
6. Charlotte
Queen City is calling. Charlotte invites guests from all over the country to enjoy the enchanting hospitality and Southern charm of the city. From the modern city center neighborhoods to intriguing museums and fine-dining, you’ll want to make this your summer vacation stop.
In Charlotte, Uptown is where it’s at. Known as the “heartbeat of the Queen City,” Uptown is full of rooftop bars, trendy restaurants and bustling city life. Notable spots for a day in the city: the NASCAR Hall of Fame, Bechtler Museum of Modern Art and 7th Street Public Market. The lively scene of Uptown thrives by night at the EpiCentre and AvidXchange Music Factory, where you can catch a comedy show, a live concert, or dance the night away.
Photo by: @hellotaylormurray
Summer vacation should mean relaxation. Omni Charlotte Hotel’s new pool and deck is exactly that—an urban oasis in the heart of the city featuring larger than life LED television screens and a contemporary poolside bar.
There’s a bonus for our adventurers, the U.S National Whitewater Center. Here you can kayak, raft or canoe along the Catawba River.