7 Sustainable Weekend Getaways for Business Travelers
Planning a weekend getaway while caring for our planet is becoming easier than ever. With more travelers seeking eco-friendly options, businesses and hotels are stepping up to provide sustainable travel experiences. Choosing destinations that prioritize green practices can help reduce your carbon footprint while offering a refreshing break from the daily grind. Here’s a guide to seven perfect sustainable weekend getaways that combine comfort, adventure, and responsible travel.
1. Asheville, North Carolina
Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is an ideal destination for sustainable weekend getaways thanks to its commitment to conservation and eco-friendly tourism. The city has implemented strong conservation efforts, and many businesses operate under eco-friendly standards.
Why Asheville?
- Sustainable Stays: The Omni Grove Park Inn is LEED-certified, focusing on energy and water conservation.
- Eco-Friendly Dining: Enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at The Market Place, known for using local and organic ingredients.
- Nature & Adventure: Hike along the Blue Ridge Parkway, explore the Biltmore Estate’s solar-powered vineyards, or visit green spaces designed to protect biodiversity.
Case Study: Asheville’s Sustainability
Asheville has implemented city-wide sustainability programs, including a goal to run on 100% renewable energy by 2030. It has already installed over 15 megawatts of solar energy capacity and has a strong urban forestry program to improve air quality and biodiversity. The city also prioritizes green spaces, ensuring that hiking trails and public parks remain protected. With a community-driven push toward eco-friendly tourism, Asheville sets a strong example for other travel destinations.
Fact: Renewable Energy Growth
A 2022 study from the Sierra Club ranked Asheville among the top 20 mid-sized U.S. cities leading the way in clean energy adoption. The city’s renewable energy projects aim to reduce carbon emissions by at least 80% over the next decade.
2. Napa Valley, California
Wine lovers don’t have to sacrifice sustainability in Napa Valley. The region’s Napa Green Certification Program ensures wineries meet strict environmental standards.
Why Napa Valley?
- Sustainable Wineries: Cakebread Cellars and others use solar power, electric tractors, and organic farming.
- Green Hotels: Stay at Bardessono Hotel & Spa, a LEED Platinum-certified property built with reclaimed materials.
- Slow Travel & Scenic Views: Explore vineyards by electric bike or enjoy a relaxing spa retreat powered by renewable energy.
Fact: Napa Green Certification
Over 80% of Napa Valley’s vineyard acreage is certified through the Napa Green program, making it one of the most sustainable wine-producing regions in the world. Certified wineries must adhere to strict guidelines, such as reducing water use by 20% and cutting carbon emissions through electric farming equipment.
3. Portland, Oregon
Portland is known for its bike-friendly streets, solar-powered breweries, and extensive public transportation network.
Why Portland?
- Sustainable Hotels: Stay at Hotel Zetta, which reduces waste by repurposing furniture and materials.
- Eco-Friendly Activities:
- Visit Forest Park, one of the largest urban forests in the U.S.
- Take a sustainable brewery tour at Hopworks Urban Brewery, which uses organic ingredients.
- Rent a bike or electric scooter to explore the city with minimal emissions.
Fact: Portland’s Bicycle Network
Portland has over 385 miles of bike lanes, and about 7% of residents commute by bike—one of the highest rates in the U.S. The city’s investment in cycling infrastructure has helped cut transportation-related emissions by nearly 20% since 2010.
4. Burlington, Vermont
Burlington leads the way in clean energy and sustainable tourism, making it a top choice for a green weekend escape.
Why Burlington?
- Eco-Friendly Hotels: Stay at Hotel Vermont, which prioritizes energy efficiency and local food sourcing.
- Outdoor Exploration:
- Rent a bike and ride along the Lake Champlain waterfront.
- Visit Shelburne Farms, an environmental education center promoting sustainable agriculture.
Fact: Renewable Energy Success
Burlington’s power grid is fueled entirely by wind, solar, hydro, and biomass energy, making it one of the only cities in the U.S. to achieve this milestone. The city’s sustainability efforts have led to a 75% reduction in carbon emissions since 2000.
5. Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston blends historic charm with modern sustainability efforts, making it a great getaway for conscious travelers.
Why Charleston?
- Green Hotels: Stay at Hotel Emeline, which reduces waste and operates on energy-efficient principles.
- Eco-Tourism & Activities:
- Take an eco-tour of the salt marshes to learn about marine conservation.
- Visit Francis Marion National Forest, where guided nature walks educate visitors about preservation.
Fact: Green Hospitality Growth
Charleston now has over 50 Green-Certified hotels and businesses, an increase of 60% since 2015. These businesses focus on solar energy, waste reduction, and sustainable sourcing.
6. Boulder, Colorado
Boulder offers a perfect mix of sustainability and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal spot for sustainable weekend getaways.
Why Boulder?
- Eco-Conscious Hotels: Stay at Hotel Boulderado, which implements water conservation programs and energy-saving systems.
- Outdoor Exploration:
- Hike Chautauqua Park with views of the Flatirons.
- Explore the Pearl Street pedestrian mall, designed to promote walkability.
Fact: Renewable Energy & Conservation
Boulder has committed to 100% renewable electricity by 2030 and has already reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 20% since 2005 through aggressive clean energy investments.
7. Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a leader in sustainability, combining urban convenience with eco-friendly initiatives.
Why Seattle?
- Eco-Conscious Hotels: Stay at The Edgewater, which has water-saving systems and energy-efficient lighting.
- Sustainable Dining & Activities:
- Eat at Taylor Shellfish Farms, a sustainable seafood restaurant.
- Explore Discovery Park, a 534-acre green space dedicated to conservation.
- Use electric scooter rentals and Seattle’s efficient public transit system to get around.
Fact: Carbon Neutral Goal
Seattle aims to be carbon-neutral by 2050, with major initiatives in public transportation, green building policies, and electric vehicle infrastructure. The city has already reduced emissions from municipal operations by 40% since 2008.
About Dyme
Dyme helps individuals and businesses make eco-friendly travel choices without sacrificing comfort or affordability. Every trip booked through Dyme supports renewable energy projects, helping to compensate for emissions and promote cleaner travel solutions. By choosing Dyme, travelers can save money while supporting a more sustainable future. Discover more about responsible travel at Dyme.
