Romantic Kissing Spots, 8-15

Ruins and a ghost town may not seem romantic, but the following spots offer something for romantics of all kinds.

8. Haakwood State Forest Campground, Michigan

Howl at the moon and snuggle under the stars for a bit of rugged romance in this remote part of the state. For a taste of civilization, hop into the car and drive along Lake Michigan's coastline to watch the sun's last show of the day.

9. Ruins of Windsor, Mississippi

Hauntingly romantic and oh-so-southern, the largest antebellum
mansion in Mississippi still captivates lovers despite its ruined status. Twenty-three massive Corinthian columns are all that remain of this Civil War survivor. (A careless smoker caused the mansion's demise in 1890.) Stroll the lush grounds together and imagine days "gone with the wind" . . . and fire.
10. Meadville Ghost Town, Nebraska

No spooks out here, just simple solitude, a slice of history, and a charming general store. Meadville isn't exactly easy to reach, but therein lies its quiet allure. Once you've made it, explore the blacksmith shop, farmhouse, and the 1890 cabin used by newlyweds in the days before honeymoon suites. At the renovated general store -- the only business for miles -- warm up by the wood-burning stove, sip wine, and share an old-fashioned smooch.

11. Valley of Fire, Nevada

Spark the romantic kindling in this tiny, fiery desert state park, located an hour from Las Vegas. Hide in the narrow arroyos, cuddle underneath overhanging rock formations, or spread out on the slickrock with only lizards to keep you company. There are numerous hiking trails, many with peekaboo views of Lake Mead.

12. Pitcher Mountain Trail, New Hampshire

Grab a small jug of New Hampshire's famous cider in nearby Stoddard, then stroll past blueberry fields and grazing Scottish Highland cattle to reach the summit of Mount Pitcher. The bald, flat mountaintop boasts the "softest rock in New Hampshire" for picnics and offers head-twirling views of the Presidential Range, the Berkshires, and Vermont foothills. The 15-minute hike is easily accessible, and encountering another couple is considered a crowd.

13. Cape May, New Jersey

When it comes to wooing your beloved, Cape May delivers all that's needed. During the day, stroll together through the area's numerous gardens and wildlife sanctuaries or beachcomb for Cape May's famous "diamonds" -- pieces of quartz polished by the waves. Savor the romance with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the gaslit streets of the old Victorian town.

14. White Sands National Monument Moonlight Walk,
New Mexico


Moonlight has never before exerted such an attraction for lovers. When the moon's out in full force, these gypsum sand formations -- the largest in the world -- glow. Stroll hand-in-hand under the brilliant New Mexico night sky and steal a kiss under the approving eye of the man in the moon.

15. Lake Metigoshe, North Dakota

Straddling the U.S.-Canadian border, Lake Metigoshe is as far north as you'll get in the state . . . making it the prime place to watch the northern lights dance or the Milky Way sparkle while bundled together in a blanket. There are no crowds to interfere with romance and no bright city lights to hinder stargazing.

More perfect spots, including one in, yes, Virginia (after all, it's for lovers), can be found on the last page.

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