Weekend Escapes

After a hectic week, let’s face it; we all need a little downtime. Whether you’re a workaholic or a homebody, you deserve a break from your immediate environment. Isn’t it about time to switch up Chinese takeout and your apartment window’s fire-escape view? Snoop through our list here; as short and sweet as the weekend that’s about to become one of your favorite memories.

From New York City

Lake George, the “Queen of American Lakes,” meanders through New York’s majestic Adirondack Mountains, sustaining breathtaking views and a village of activities—all conveniently located four hours from the Big Apple. For family friendly fun, enjoy a steamboat cruise aboard the Minne-Ha-Ha, one of the last steam paddle wheelers in the states. The cruise is a great way to get a glimpse of Millionaire’s Row and to observe the mini-islands that lure diehard naturalists. Island camping is idyllic for hiking, picnicking, and sunset lovers. If you’d rather not sleep under the stars, the Boathouse Bed and Breakfast is a splendid alternative. Their rustically furnished guest rooms offer top notch amenities like 600 thread count sateen sheets and complimentary robes and slippers to keep your toes warm. Stop by Marsha’s Family Restaurant for brunch where Ed, Marsha’s husband, will gladly help you plot your next activity in the area. Don’t leave without ordering the blueberry pancakes drenched in real Adirondack maple syrup!

From Chicago

Egg Harbor in Wisconsin’s Door County, a four hour trip north of Chicago, is an ideal weekend getaway. The newly renovated Egg Harbor Marina entertains locals and visitors alike with sailing, fishing, 63 floating piers, and a lengthy 800-foot-long pedestrian walkway. After an active day, refuel at Shipwrecked Brew Pub which offers one-of-a-kind handcrafted and seasonal beers as well as yummy Sheboygan Mac and Cheese simmered in Bayside Blonde fondue. Considering the brewery has been up and running since 1882, rumor has it that Shipwrecked is haunted. Talk about a close encounter of the paranormal kind! End the spooky night at the Fido-friendly Feathered Star B&B, named for its feathered quilts featured in all the guest quarters. This cozy abode, powered by a nearby windmill, is surrounded by grassy meadows, farmland, a garden and fruit trees for nature lovers. Enjoy a continental breakfast in the dining room fitted out with antique furniture in this homey inn that’s a bit reminiscent of grandma’s house.

From Dallas

If you hail from Dallas, take a short 30-minute drive northwest to historic Grapevine. This rich city is revered for its award winning wines and is home to the Urban Wine Trail which features wine tastings and special events throughout the year. Sit back, relax, and sip on bold reds and crisp whites while the local vendors share historical tidbits about the city being the Lone Star State’s wine industry leader for over 25 years. Be sure to stop by Sloan & Williams Winery where you can clink spoons and indulge in Peach White Zinfandel and Chocolate Cabernet ice cream! Can getting a buzz get any better than that? Another don’t miss is GrapeFest. This annual wine festival takes place every September and is the largest one in the Southwest. Have fun stomping grapes barefoot, check out artisans carving ice sculptures, and pop bottles at the Champagne Cork Shoot Off. Of course, festival food is aplenty, but if you’re craving something really special, head over to Ferrari’s Italian Villa and Chop House. Ferrari’s is an authentic Italian family-owned gem serving traditional dishes with a culinary flair. Channel your inner child with a stay at Great Wolfe Lodge, a cabin-themed hotel with a massive indoor water park. Join their nightly storytelling session by the lobby’s fireplace, a perfect ending to an exciting day of touring.

From Los Angeles

Grab a slice of coastal heaven only about an hour away from L.A. Newport Beach’s ten miles of surf and sand are host to a bunch of aquatic activities for all ages, including whale watching. Take a guided boat tour and spot grey whales in the winter and spring, and blue whales in the summer and fall. What a sight! Catch a ferry from Newport Harbor straight to Balboa Island where you can shop for aromatic handcrafted candles at Candlessense and satisfy your sweet tooth at Dad’s Donut and Bakery Shop (their frozen bananas are a huge hit). Why not hire a personal shopper for the day at Fashion Island and spoil yourself in retail heaven? Kate Spade, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus are only a few of the many shops awaiting your visit. Play golf like a pro at Pelican Hill Resort’s 54-hole scenic course. After a round grab dinner at Pelican Hill’s Coliseum Pool and Grill. Their heated terrace offers an unmatched view of the Pacific. A stay at their Mediterranean-style bungalow suites and villas will leave you feeling like Italian royalty. Unwind by the granite fireplace and watch the sunset in the privacy of your terrace. The resort’s tasteful architecture, panoramic views, and lavish amenities infuse luxury with comfort, providing nothing less than the most memorable stay.

Got a favorite weekend idea you’d like us to know about?  Submit a comment at the bottom of this post and we’ll include.