There is no doubt that we'd all like to vacation more than we'd like to work or spend hours slaving over projects and assignments. Unfortunately, there is not always enough time (or money) to spend a week at your dream getaway destination; however, you should not let that stop you from indulging in your desire to explore! Here are the top 10 places in the U.S. to take a quick four-day vacation so that you won't get way behind on your strict deadlines:

1. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago's bustling Midwest culture is perfect for a quick getaway. The various restaurants, multiple museums such as the Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium, creative shops, and unique neighborhoods allow for plenty to do while working on a small budget!

2. St. Louis, Missouri

The best part about St. Louis...Forest Park. If you enjoy zoos, art museums, planetariums, and even a casual game of golf you will thrive in Forest Park. The most astonishing part is that each of those activities is completely free to the public! The vibrant city will not only entertain you for an entire weekend, but it won't break the bank either!

3. Nashville, Tennesse

Attention all country music fanatics! Nashville is home to the infamous Honky Tonk and Acme Feed & Seed where you can get cold drinks and live music all night long! The city is also home to the Grand Ole Opry and Country Music Hall of Fame. Its lively atmosphere is the perfect destination for letting loose and dancing until the wee hours of the morning.

4. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston's history and old-style charm will leave you loving every minute of your time there. Newbury Street offers a wide range of shops and eateries while the Paul Revere House, National History Park and Harborwalk provide a rich history of the United States.

5. Sedona, Arizona

Outdoor adventure awaits in the heart of the red rock mountains! Spend days hiking trails along the red rock formations or go even further and take a hot air balloon ride over the tops of mountains to get a bird's eye view of the picturesque scenery. Sedona is also home to the most powerful energy vortexes in the nation and therefore attract many people for spiritual renewal and relaxation. The small town is full of local art shops and ethnic restaurants making it a truly unforgettable weekend stay.

6. Denver, Colorado

Denver is the perfect combination of nature and city life. The multitude of parks, botanical gardens, as well as museums and nightlife, make it the ideal location for those wanting to relax or explore during the day and go out at night! In addition, the Red Rock Amphitheater frequently books live shows to enjoy in the open Colorado air.

7. Charleston, South Carolina

Century-old mansions and cobblestone streets make parts of Charleston a history museum in itself! Walking tours, boat excursions, museums, nature parks and national monuments make this city the perfect place to spend a long weekend!

8. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Liberty Bell, the Rocky statue, the traditional Philly cheesesteak, Independence Hall and South Broad Street...what more could you want?! Philadelphia allows for an exciting getaway from all our responsibilities while still engulfing in a little history.

9. Seattle, Washington

Seattle's Pike Place Market overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront and the Space Needle are all you need to enjoy a weekend in Seattle. Experience the Puget Sound, which echoes along an inlet in the northwestern coast of the state and witness the Experience Music Project Museum to see artifacts from some of the most iconic musicians such as Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan.

10. Portland, Oregon

Calling all hipsters! Portland entails endless gardens and nature preserves as well as unique coffee shops and breweries. The laid back atmosphere makes it the perfect destination for those wanting to see a little theater, drink a few couple brews, and spend hours gazing at contemporary art.