From quaint small towns to bustling big cities, the Northeast boasts a plethora of options for a quick day trip on a holiday weekend. Whether you are scrambling for ideas for President’s Day Weekend, or looking forwards to future spontaneous day vacations, below are five close spots that do not lack in things to do, places to go, or things to eat!
Newport, RI
A short drive from Providence is the majestic beach town of Newport, Rhode Island. Start your journey off winding down the historic Ocean Drive on Bellevue Avenue and then hop out to take a stroll on the scenic Cliff Walk with unparalleled views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gilded Age Mansions. Take a tour of one of these glamorous mansions in the afternoon. I’m partial to The Breakers, which is arguably the grandest of the Newport cottages, but Rosecliff and Marble House are also favorites. Grab an avocado toast and latte at Cru Cafe before strolling downtown and peaking into local shops and boutiques. Finish the day off with some fresh seafood at The White Horse Tavern , which dates back to 1673.
Block Island, RI
Only a 30-60 minute ferry away, Block Island is a quick way to access all the natural sights and scenery that Rhode Island has to offer. For breathtaking views, explore the Mohegan Bluffs. The beach is rocky and the steps are a trek, but the pictures will surely make your friends jealous. While on the beach, hunt for sea glass, which is hidden all over the Island’s beaches and trails. Set aside time to explore one of the two lighthouses the island has to offer, North Light or Southeast Lighthouse, which has an attached museum and gift shop. Spend the afternoon ambling down Main Street and stop by Island Bound Bookstore for some eclectic reads, Chapel Sweets for an old fashioned treat, or Glass Onion Block Island for artisan home goods. It may be cold, but you will not regret grabbing a scoop at The Ice Cream Place before visiting the 1661 Exotic Farms and Gardens, which has beautiful gardens and a petting zoo with llamas, camels, and kangaroos. Finish your day off by staying for dinner at the inn.
Boston, MA
No car? Take the commuter train or Amtrak up to Back Bay Station and spend the day in downtown Boston. Start the day off at Tatte Bakery and Cafe with a latte and delectable pastry. Once properly fueled, peruse the shops and boutiques of Newbury Street, where you will find a mix of high end designer stores and second-hand shops. Make your way to the Boston Common and Public Gardens for a taste of tranquil nature in the middle of the bustling city. You cannot go to Boston without exploring the history, so climb the cobblestone hills of Beacon Hill, admiring the storied architecture along the way, and then stop into Beacon Hill Books for the warm atmosphere and curated selection of reads. Finish the day off in the North End with a proper Italian dinner at Giacomo’s or Trattoria Il Panino and a cannoli at Mike’s or Modern Pastry.
New York City
Day trip to New York City? It’s possible! Take the early morning Amtrak down to the city and grab a delicious breakfast at Bubby’s; just make sure you get the iconic pancakes! Love museums? Go to The Met for classic art, the MoMA for modern art, or the American Museum of Natural History for a little bit of everything. More into the performing arts? Visit a New York City Ballet or stop by a show on Broadway. Want to shop until you drop? Go to the local boutiques of Soho or the big flagship stores of 5th Ave. Feeling overwhelmed by the city? Take a stroll through Central Park or walk through the Highline. Finish the night off with a classic New York slice at Scarr’s Pizza.
The Berkshires
With rugged mountains, quaint towns, and luxurious spas, the Berkshires are worth the drive. Start the morning off with a hearty breakfast at Dottie’s Coffee Lounge. For the nature inclined, drive to Mount Greylock for the highest point in the state of Massachusetts and plenty of hiking trails that wind you through the Veterans War Memorial Tower, a lighthouse, and panoramic views of the five surrounding states. Fans of 20th century art will want to stop by the Norman Rockwell Museum in Stockbridge, which holds a vast collection of the artist’s work, or the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art in North Adams. Engage in much needed rest and self-care at Miraval Resorts or Canyon Ranch, which both offer day spa services that include massages, facials, or body therapies. The Berkshires offer plenty of tasty places to finish off your day, but you cannot go wrong with The Prairie Whale for dinner and The Farmstead Creamery for an ice cream dessert.