With travel restrictions beginning to ease in most states here in the U.S., it's the perfect time to start thinking about taking a weekend getaway (or two or three!) this summer.
There's nothing like an old-fashioned road trip with family, friends, your favorite snacks and music tracks to vibe to. If you're ready to hit the road (or airport) for your next adventure, keep reading for some must see travel destinations in the northeast.
Bushkill, Pennsylvania
Just southwest of the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, the Bushkill area is a great destination if you love the outdoors and hiking. Bushkill Falls, located in the Pocono Mountains, offers a beautiful landscape of eight waterfalls with the tallest cascading over 100 feet. There are a variety of trails from easy to moderate to difficult, so no matter what your skill level, you should be able to find something to suit your needs.
Travel Tip: The Pocono Mountain area has lots to do and plenty of places to stay so be sure to do your research ahead of time to plan out your itinerary. If you're headed to Bushkill Falls, purchase your tickets ahead of time online to avoid the lines!
Cape May, New Jersey
A true beach escape town, Cape May is a getaway like no other. With so many quaint bed and breakfasts and resorts to stay at around town, just about everything is within walking distance. Depending on your budget, Congress Hall is a popular resort with all the amenities plus beach access. It’s located right near Washington Street, an outdoor walking mall with shops, eateries, and more. After a long day at the beach or basking in the sun by the pool, this is the perfect spot to take a stroll and grab some eats.
Travel Tips: While there’s plenty to do in the center of town, don’t forget to venture a little west along the seashore to visit the Cape May Lighthouse and South Cape May Meadows, a globally renowned birders paradise. Looking to capture the most amazing sunset? Sunset Beach by the Sunken Ship is the perfect location!
Nantucket, Massachusetts
Only accessible by boat or plane, this charming island sits south of Cape Cod and southeast of Martha’s Vineyard. Its the perfect romantic getaway for two. Stay at a local inn like the Veranda House or if you prefer the resort life, the White Elephant is for you. Stroll along the cobblestone streets of Main Street where you can grab a cup of coffee while visiting local shoppes. Craving a yummy lobster roll for lunch? The Brant Point Grille and CRU Nantucket Oyster Bar have you covered. As you explore the island, you'll find beaches, lighthouses (there are 3 of them!), craft breweries, museums, and theaters to discover along the way.
Travel Tip: The best time to go is during the summer months when the island weather is warm and the shops and restaurants are bustling with visitors from near and far.
Newport, Rhode Island
The coastal community of Newport is full of rich history and charm. Watch the sunrise near Cliff Walk or take a stroll along Bellevue Avenue and visit some (or all!) of the Gilded Age mansions. The Breakers, an Italian Renaissance Villa built for Cornelius Vanderbilt II, is a must see mansion if you're short on time and can only visit one. Thames Street is the place to be where you'll find plenty of good eats and shoppes. Looking to make dinner reservations? 22 Bowan's Wine Bar & Grille in Bowans Wharf is a dining experience like no other.
Travel Tip: Stay at a local inn like the Mill Street Inn near Thames Street and you'll be within walking distance of most shoppes and restaurants during your stay.
Windham, New York
Located in the Catskills, Windham is the perfect relax and recharge getaway with family, friends or a spa weekend with the besties. Rent a cabin or house from Vrbo or stay at Windham Mountain and treat yourself to a day at Alpine Spa. Wherever you stay, outdoor adventures are all around you. Experience the beauty of nature as you travel down the picturesque winding roads through the mountains. Stop at the General Store or local honey shop along the way or take a trip to Hunter Mountain and take a scenic sky ride or zipline adventure.
Travel Tip: If you plan on driving, beat the traffic and take a half (or full!) day on a Thursday/Friday to hit the road early, especially if you’re coming from the south. This gives you more time to travel and the option to take a longer scenic route instead!
Know Before You Go
Travel restrictions and guidelines are changing all the time, so be sure to do your research before you hop in the car (or plane) and go.
What are some of your favorite northeast destinations? Drop a comment below!
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