While residing in one of America’s five most populous cities certainly has its rewards (museums, shopping, entertainment, and awesome food), space to spread out is not one of them. For the cost of a three bedroom home on Long Island, NY, you’d barely net a decent studio apartment in downtown Manhattan, so finding some extra leg room so to speak is a luxury few of us living in the cities can afford. On those Friday nights when you’ve just got to remember what an open starry sky looks like, get away for the weekend at one of these destinations – all perfect for cramped city dwellers.
New York City to Sag Harbor
The historic whaling port on the northeastern corner of Long Island has retained its old world Victorian charm thanks to architectural preservation efforts, yet it has plenty of modern day attractions. Dine at one of the trendy restaurants along the winding village streets, peruse galleries with cutting edge contemporary art, or catch one of the semi-professional productions at the Bay Street Theater. Even if you can’t count yourself among the Manhattan elite with a weekend home and a sailboat moored in the harbor here, you can still have the same experience with a Sag Harbor sailing tour. For your weekend away, you’ll be ditching the chain hotels, however, and staying at a B&B—the area’s famous for them. Try finding one of those in midtown Manhattan.
Los Angeles to Palm Springs
Since Hollywood’s heyday, Palm Springs has been a haven for stressed L.A. starlets and a secret trysting place for famous power couples. That still applies to today but the pristine desert town a 2 hour drive from Los Angeles has expanded its appeal to anyone who enjoys nature. For anyone loving the great outdoors there are rolling golf greens, hiking and cycling trails and the unique desert terrain and for those more into the luxury lifestyle there’s a fabulous spa culture and hot nightlife. Between the outdoor activities and thriving lounge scene with numerous LGBT venues, Palm Springs is the perfect place to burn some calories while partying with a group of new friends.
Chicago to Galena
A short 165 miles from Chicago, Galena is almost always found on any list of “the most beautiful places in America”. Nestled on the Mississippi River and known for its quaint B&B’s, antiques shopping and picturesque countryside, it’s often called “the city that time forgot” due to its 19th century architecture and caught-in-time feeling. With plenty to see and do, it’s the perfect place to bring the whole family but perhaps best suited for a romantic getaway for two due to its gracious charm and scenic beauty.
Houston to Galveston Island
About an hour’s drive outside of Houston is a family destination where soccer practice, PTA meetings and complicated sleep over plans simply don’t exist. Galveston Island’s 32 miles of shoreline is home to fishermen, surfers, bird-watchers and plenty of beachgoers looking to relax while perfecting a tan. Take the kids to Schlitterbahn Waterpark, which mercifully allows guests to bring their own food to avoid hefty amusement park prices or neighboring Moody Gardens, an enormous complex encompassing gardens, a beach, waterslides, cinemas and even a zoo.
Philadelphia to Atlantic City
Best enjoyed with bottomless pockets and Lady Luck on your side, “AC” offers more than just casino gambling (although no trip there would be complete without it). Stroll the famous boardwalk, the world’s first, where Miss America reigned in its glory days and take in the refreshing sea air while reveling in the carnival atmosphere of Steel Pier with its endless rides and amusements. Be sure to try to try the town’s salt water taffy and if it’s a hot summer day, go swimming in the Atlantic! The beach is free and the water quality is excellent thanks to increased safety programs in the past few decades. To fully experience the Las Vegas of the East the right way, check event listings for the many star-studded concerts and performances before you go.