Despite residing in one of the world’s most beloved cities, there are times when New Yorkers need to escape the skyscrapers and savor a slower pace of life for a while. Given that 2020 is the year of the road trip, you might feel inspired to pack up the car this summer, and make a bee line for these family resorts within driving distance of NYC.
Just under three hours north of New York, in the forested hills of the Berkshire Mountains, Oak n’ Spruce Resort provides doorstep access to Norman Rockwell-esque landscapes (there’s even a museum dedicated to the artist’s work nearby). From here, you can explore the Appalachian Trail, then kick off your hiking boots and relax in the pool before heading back to your suite to cook a hearty family dinner.
The town of Newport is best known for its regatta, a race that attracts thousands of boat enthusiasts to the Rhode Island coast each year. Situated a 3.5 hour drive from NYC, Wyndham Inn on Long Wharf puts you right in the heart of Newport’s famous harbor, with waterfront views from each of its nautically decorated suites. While you’re in town, visit the area’s best beaches, enjoy a guided trek on horseback, and try your luck fishing with local experts.
It’s worth the 6.5-hour drive from New York to visit one of the country’s most historically significant cities: Williamsburg, Virginia. Wyndham Governor’s Green is conveniently close to Colonial Williamsburg, the largest outdoor living museum in the U.S. (which just reopened to visitors), as well as Virginia’s best vineyards (fun fact: the state is home to nearly 300 wineries). At the resort itself, enjoy beautifully manicured grounds, pools, sports, and a mini golf course.
Washington D.C. is a great family-friendly destination if you’re seeking big-city energy with plenty of outdoor activity options. Take an audio tour of the city’s most historically significant landmarks, including Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, then refuel at one of these outdoor dining spots. Back at the Wyndham National Harbor, enjoy a dip in the pool before returning to your spacious multi-bedroom suite.
It takes over six hours and multiple forms of transport to reach Nantucket, but it’s absolutely worth the journey. Sand dune-fringed beaches, cobbled streets, and a bountiful supply of straight-from-the-ocean seafood make this idyllic island a quintessential east coast destination. Conveniently located in the heart of Nantucket town, Mariner House’s pretty private apartments offer a perfect base for island excursions.