Tag: East Coast Travel

Destinations Perfect for a Weekend Getaway on the Eastern Seaboard

Traveling the Eastern Seaboard is one of the most popular getaway weekend vacations. There are so many things to see and do! From Burlington, Vermont, where you can take a rewarding hike on The Long Trail, to Long Island and its many top-rated beaches. From the magic of Toronto’s Waterfront Trail to the rich historic whaling village of Cape Cod’s Nantucket —the possibilities for adventure are endless. Thanks to Travel + Leisure’s guide of where you should visit if you’re looking for an enjoyable weekend getaway along the East Coast, you’re set to escape the city grindphysically and mentally in no time at all.

Simply put, North America’s Eastern Seaboard has no shortage of excellent, culturally-rich cities that are brimming with features, experiences, and wonders to explore. This region’s collection of the natural beauty of the Appalachian Mountains, countless surrounding forests, and history-rich metropolises makes it easy for travelers of all types to find the destination perfect for them. You can spend your days hiking through national parks or visiting museums, but if you need a break from nature and history, there are also plenty of great restaurants and social spaces where you can relax with family or friends after a long day of exploring.

Burlington, Vermont

Located only three hours away from Boston, the Eastern Seaboard city of Burlington is a charming Northwestern Vermont town that has a lot to offer in terms of rewarding outdoor activities, culturally-rich city exploration, and acclaimed restaurants. Many visit Burlington to check out its collection of renowned hiking trails and walking paths that offer panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains. If you’re looking for something set at a slower pace than hiking, be sure to spend time on the city’s beaches and boardwalks, or go kayaking or canoeing along the shores of Lake Champlain.

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in a city’s rich history of architecture and culture, you’re in the right spot, as Burlington is known as one of America’s best-preserved Victorian cities thanks to its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. In addition to this, the city is also home to several outdoor markets where you can find locally made goods, art, and produce. Burlington offers a wide variety of restaurants, from local favorites like America’s Flatbread to critically-acclaimed fine dining establishments like Chef Eric Warnstedt’s Hen of the Wood. There’s plenty to love about this treasured New England city, making it the ideal weekend escape destination.

Long Island, New York

New York’s Long Island is a great place to visit for a quick but satisfying Eastern Seaboard weekend vacation. Supplied with plenty of beaches, restaurants, and local vineyards to check out, there are tons of options for you to experience this city that has its own unique charm. Once you find yourself settled in and wanting to explore Long Island, you should consider taking a ferry out to North Folk where you can observe some truly memorable views of the Long Island Sound and taste some heavenly offerings from the nearby vineyards.

If you’re looking for a place to spend some time out on the town, then consider catching a performance at the 1933 Art Deco-styled Suffolk Theater or an afternoon under the stars at the Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium. In fact, if you’re particularly interested in the stars above, then be sure to also check out the Cradle of Aviation Museum, as it is an aerospace fan’s dream due to its collection of life-sized jets, rockets, and lunar landing models. Because Long Island is both rich in culture, experiences, and authenticity, it’s no wonder why so many in New England return to this coastal city time and time again whenever they’re looking to relax, explore, or simply experience something new.

For more travel-related news and information, click here.

Five Reasons to Visit Maine

While every state in the country plays host to at least a single one-of-a-kind attraction, Maine seems to have more than the standard amount of must-sees to attract visitors from all parts. Part of its allure is thanks to its eastern-most location in the continental U.S., with a marked point at West Quoddy Head to prove it. Its quiet, coastal location includes beautiful cliffs, sandy beaches and historic lighthouses, as well as picturesque mountains. Besides the gorgeous nature, Maine locals offer their own one-of-a-kind experiences including artisan studios, seafood straight from their backyard, and cozy, cottage-like historic inns. For your next trip, consider the following unique experiences that Maine has to offer according to a recent article by Travelocity.

Stay Overnight in a Historic Lighthouse

Ever wondered what it’s like to be a lighthouse keeper? You can find out firsthand at the historic Little River Lighthouse in Downeast Maine. Hike through the quiet trails on the 15-acre island through whispering pines and breathe in the crisp ocean air. If you’re up for the challenge, climb to the top of the lighthouse for an amazing view as far as the eye can see. Take in a dazzling sunset then prepare yourself for a night sky like you’ve never seen before. With no city lights, tall buildings or smog to hinder your view, you will have the opportunity to admire the stunning brilliance of the stars against a black velvet sky.

Attend a Clambake on a Private Island

Clambakes, a New England tradition, are outdoor gatherings that involve baking or steaming clams, other seafood and sides between layers of seaweed over a pit. One popular iteration, the Cabbage Island Clambake, takes place on a picturesque private island. Cabbage Island guests are treated to a traditional Downeast Maine clambake including fish chowder, two lobsters, clams, golden corn on the cob, potato, onion, a hard steamed egg and blueberry cake. After you enjoy your meal, guests can explore the beauty of Cabbage Island through its wooded trails to Hawk Point or by simply relaxing under the shade of the great oak tree. You can also play horseshoes, volleyball and badminton. However you choose to enjoy this unique experience, it will make memories for years to come.

Explore a Water Trail

Take a scenic boat ride along the Maine Island Trail. This 375-mile water trail extends the entire length of the Maine coast. Whether you choose to paddle, sail, cruise, or kayak, this trail connects over 250 wild islands and mainland sites that are open for day use or overnight camping. There is no official route along the Trail, so you can explore at your own pace and in your own way. Some adventurous guests paddle, sail, motor, or row the entire length of the coast in one trip!

Hike the Start – or the End – of the Appalachian Trail

 The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, or the A.T., spans 14 states and over 2,000 miles in the Eastern United States. Maine plays host to 282 miles of hiking with the highest peak on Mount Katahdin, located in Baxter State Park, where you can hike, camp or explore more than 200,000 acres of remote wilderness. Maine is the A.T.’s most challenging, rugged and remote state, and it has the wildest feel of any area of the Trail. Along the trail, you’ll find striking summits, beautiful waterfalls, and rocky river crossings.

Follow a 350-Mile Art Museum Trail

The Maine Art Museum Trail, which spans 350 miles, guides you through nine world-class art museums around the state. With more than 80,000 works of art—from ancient artifacts and world-famous masterpieces, to contemporary Maine artists and unique, awe-inspiring installations—the participating art museums of Maine showcase an impressive diversity of artists, subjects, and media.  There is something for every art lover at every stop along the trail. Be sure to check their website for current museum openings before you start your trek.

For more travel-related news and information, click here.