Much Needed Weekend Getaways
No matter who you are, a quick getaway from the daily grind can do you good. Lucky for us, we're surrounded by mountains, water and some great cities just a short distance away so pick one of our destinations an hour, three or five hours away for a quick day trip or an overnight adventure.
Family Friendly Getaways
One Hour Away: Brandywine Creek State Park
Located in Wilmington, Delaware is this popular destination for families where you'll find camping, canoeing, cross country skiing, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, sledding and plenty of space for some picturesque picnicking.
Open Daily 8 a.m. to Sunset
Image courtesy of www.liveworkplaywilmington.com
Three Hours Away: Washington D.C.
Why not jump in the car (or for even more fun jump on the train) and take the whole family for a history filled trip to D.C.? In addition to all the nation's capital obvious attractions such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, etc., D.C. has some pretty incredible museums like the Natural History Museum, National Zoo, National Air & Space Museum and did we mention they're all FREE!
Image courtesy of www.wikipedia.com
Five Hours Away: Pittsburgh
Recently named one of America's most underrated cities by Condé Nast Traveler, Pittsburgh deserves a little attention. Sure our football teams are long time rivals but on top of it's picturesque skyline, the city of bridges is chock full of kid worthy attractions. For the coaster lovers check out Kennywood Park, for your toddlers check out the Children's Museum and for the for the animal lovers take a stroll through the Pittsburgh Zoo + PPG Aquarium.
Image courtesy of www.huffingtonpost.com
Romantic Trips For Couples
One Hour Away: Longwood Gardens
With over 1,077 acres of gardens, woodlands, and meadows it's no wonder Longwood Gardens is one of the world’s premier horticultural display gardens. What could be more romantic then strolling through beautiful gardens? As an added bonus, Longwood opened up it's very own beer garden that has live music every Thursday night.
Image courtesy of www.phlvisitocenter.com
Three Hours Away: NYC
So maybe New York isn't the most obvious choice for a romantic getaway but there's something quite intimate about going to a busy city and not knowing anyone except your partner in crime. NYC has it all from some of the best museums in the world, cozy eateries, water views and we can't forget Central Park where you and your main squeeze can take a romantic paddle around the Lake, ride the carousel and ice skate during the colder months.
Image courtesy of ww.fodors.com
Five Hours Away: Virginia Beach
So you've done the day trip to Longwood Gardens, the train trip to New York and now you're ready for the next step, the weekend getaway. We recommend a car time commitment of no more than 5 hours because being in a tight space for longer than that can get annoying for anyone. So 5 hours away is just the right destination with a perfect mix of lounging and adventures waterside, Virginia Beach. There's a reason the state was dubbed with the catchy phrase "Virginia is for Lovers."
Image courtesy of tulasports.com
Destinations Ideal For Friends
One Hour Away: Cape May
There are tons of beaches to pick from an hour away from Philly but we're partial to Cape May given it's more laid back vibe and cleanliness. Unlike other beaches along the Jersey shore, you need to buy beach tags but we find the $6/day price tag is worth every penny. If you're headed in make sure to stop along the way for all the libations you'll need as Cape May is a dry community.
Image courtesy of onstageamerica.com
Three Hours Away: Poconos
There isn't much you can't do in the Poconos... Snowboard, raft down the rapids, go fishing, play a round of golf, go for a hike, bike, lounge by the lake and even kayak. We're lucky to be close to a spot with so much to offer and on top of all the activities there's plenty of lodging options from pitching a tent by a lake or staying in an upscale boutique hotel to staying in a hotel with a water park in it.
Image courtesy of poconobikerental.com
Five Hours Away: Newport
For a small town Newport packs a lot of punch. Enjoy a lazy day by Gooseberry Beach, a semi-private beach with super soft sand, calm waters and not too crowded. Maybe some sailing in the morning aboard one of the original America’s Cup sail boats and go fast through the harbor getting a beautiful tour from the water. Make sure you request the Heritage boat which is the only one designed, built and raced by the same man. 12 Meter Charters is great (tell Eli that Nigel sent you). Experience quintessential Newport and sip cocktails/nibbles on the lawn at the Castle Hill Inn in classic white Adirondack chairs. For the best and one of the least expensive Lobster Rolls, go to the 2nd St beach to the second floor snack shop. If you are there on a Saturday, do take a drive to Newport Polo and spend the money on the Veuve Cliquot Champagne lounge for prime seating and of course… champagne. Also, make sure you visit the heart of the town, Thames St., where you'll find plenty of boutiques, historical homes and event more delicious food options.
Image courtesy of bayberryinofnewport.com