I live in New York and work a lot. Every day is the same: getting up early, going to work, coming home tired. My job implies the contact with people, so I must talk and listen all the time. Also, I have to be focused on what they are saying. I need some peace and a lot of sleep. Where in the USA can I spend a quiet weekend?
I suggest you go to the Salt Lake City. The nearby Wasatch Mountains bring fresh air to the city. You can go for a walk in many of the national parks. There are some organized tours of bird watching. Its a favorite summer activity of animal lovers, just as skiing at the same place is a favorite winter activity for those who love sports. There are many areas suitable for picnic. All you need is to put some sandwiches and fruit into the basket, bring an interesting book and enjoy the silence of nature. There are also some driving tours which imply the visits to the Salt Lake valley as well as the Great Salt Lake.