Are you feeling a touch of cabin fever? Life will return to normal sooner than you may think. And when it does, why not enjoy a well-deserved vacation?
You’ll have a chance to treat yourself while helping smaller tourist destinations recover from the economic downturn. With that in mind, check out these beautiful destinations!
1. Ocean City, MD
The best time to chow down on some famous Maryland blue crab is late summer through early fall, so start planning your trip to Ocean City, MD, now.
That’s not to say that the only thing to do is eat. The Ocean City boardwalk is more than 100 years old and ranked as one of the best in the nation. Take a stroll and have a local artist draw your caricature or a palmist read your future.
2. Bar Harbor, ME
You’ll find something for every taste in Bar Harbor. Nature lovers will revel in nearby Acadia National Park where they can camp and hike to their heart’s content.
After a long time spent indoors, the fresh air never smelled so sweet. Those who prefer accommodations that don’t involve a tent can find a score of boutique hotels. Enjoy the wonders of Mount Desert Island or stroll the shops and eateries along the shore.
3. Cape May, NJ
Have you got a hankering to go down the shore? In Cape May, you’ll find something for everyone, from history lovers to nature enthusiasts. Go for a romantic dinner cruise complete with whale and dolphin-watching, or explore the region’s many stunning lighthouses.
If you have a passion for all things aeronautic, check out the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, home to a WWII wooden airplane hangar that served as a training spot for dive bomber squadrons.
4. Breckenridge, CO
You don’t have to visit during ski season to enjoy the magic of Breckenridge, CO. This tiny town nestled in the Rockies has a host of activities to share.
Enjoy some of the most scenic hiking and biking when the leaves change in the fall. You can tip one back at Oktoberfest and explore the historic main street. If your tastes run to the aquatic, you can book a Colorado river adventure or fly fishing from the shoreline.
5. Palmerton, PA
Location, location, location — Palmerton, PA has it. Located only an hour and a half away from both Philadelphia and New York, you’ll feel transported to a picturesque countryside oasis.
If you like to ski, the Blue Mountain Ski Resort is home to the state’s highest vertical lift and some of the longest runs. Scary movie fans can marvel at the Halls of Horror, an adult-themed haunted house.
6. Hilton Head, SC
Perhaps your tastes run more to the beach than the ocean. Enjoy the spirit of the Lowcountry with a tour from Outside, where you can choose to explore the area by bike, paddleboard and more. Or if you have dreamed about being your own ship’s captain, work on getting your boating licence with Ace Boater, rent a boat and have some fun adventures on the water.
The island offers a host of museums and galleries where you can get your cultural vibe. At nighttime, explore fine dining establishments featuring fresh seafood and some of the hippest comedy clubs around.
7. Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA
If you are California dreaming, but you don’t like the big city crowds, check out Carmel-by-the-Sea. This region was once part of the territory of Mexico, and you will find some to-die-for elote, or Mexican street corn, in many area best restaurants.
A walk around the village makes you reminisce about old-world charm, and a trip to the Mission will restore your faith. You’ll also discover why the region has inspired many artists and writers, such as Jack London and Robinson Jeffers.
8. Whitefish, MT
Can you imagine catching a glimpse of a glacier while you zipline? You can at Glacier National Park, located only a short distance outside the town of Whitefish, MT.
If you’re a skiing enthusiast, the winter is the time to visit, but you can enjoy this picturesque locale any time of year. The region offers several golf courses and kayaking adventures on the river. The water is so clear that you can count the pebbles along the bed.
9. Sedona, AZ
Do you feel the urge to nurture your soul after a stressful time? You will find the ultimate in relaxation at one of the many spa resorts in Sedona, AZ.
If you want to learn more about the nature and history of the west, head to Red Rock State Park, where you can learn about monarch butterflies and ancient fry bread-making techniques. While you’re there, visit one of the famous vortex locations among the extensive trail system that runs throughout the region.
Explore These Destinations on Your Next Getaway
Don’t dismay if you are stuck at home or buried under office work. Take the time to plan your next getaway and dream of the trip you’ll soon enjoy!
Author Bio:
Dylan Bartlett, aka, “The Regular Guide,” writes about a broad variety of topics on his blog. Check out Just a Regular Guide for more, or follow him on Twitter @theregularguidefor frequent updates!
