Making the Most of Local Getaways

Whether you consider yourself a tried and true New Englander or have recently relocated to the glorious Northeast, enjoying the sights and sounds of the area should not be taken lightly. Everyone loves a good vacation now and then, and we encourage you to take one at least once a year to relax, unwind, and most importantly, recharge. But, now, more than ever, we could all use a little de-stressing. We understand that with the pandemic still taking a toll on the country, island getaways and tropical drinks may be out of the question right now, but don’t fret! There is so much to explore and enjoy right here at home. 

Local getaways, or staycations, are the perfect way to unplug close to home. Forget the airport hustle and take a closer look at all available to you right in your backyard. From mouth-watering seafood and historical appeal to an unyielding sports culture and refreshing weather, New England has so much to offer you. 

Here are my top 5 favorite local getaways:

1. Boston, Massachusetts

The largest city in New England and the capital of Massachusetts, Boston is an immensely quaint area filled with American history and culture. Combining the best of New England roots with the modernizations of a bustling city, Boston is a great spot to visit any time of year with anyone on your list. With options for families, couples, and singles alike, Boston is the perfect place to embrace all that New England is. From the delicious seafood on the Seaport and harbor cruise to view the city from the water to the historic Freedom Trail or the country’s oldest tavern, there is something for everyone. Families especially love spending a day at the aquarium, science museum, or LegoLand. One of our favorite spots? Faneuil Hall. It’s the ideal spot to feel the culmination of past and present Boston come together. 

2. Portland, Maine

Featuring the most photographed lighthouse in the United States, the Portland Headlight, this pinnacle city in Maine is the ideal place to enjoy a week away from home, close to home. From award-winning restaurants filled with all the delicious seafood you can eat to museums, art galleries, and small-town style boutiques, Portland is sure to check off all the boxes on your must-have vacation list. To top it off, Portland has some of the best ocean views. Enjoy this spot in the summertime for all the beach and lobster you can handle, or head that way during the fall months to watch the leaves change color to the most glorious fire-inspired hues. 

3. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts 

Located 8 miles off the coast of Cape Cod, this popular tourist destination for New Englander and elite visitors alike is a perfect spot to get away from the busy nature of the city. It has been known as a secluded summer destination for celebrities and politicians for years. When you enter the island, you’ll soon realize how everyone runs on island time with a laid-back vibe and demeanor. Whether you decide to fly in or take the ferry from the Cape, we encourage you to dig your toes in the sand on one of the many beaches or explore the six small towns throughout the island. Before you depart, don’t forget to snap some photos in Oak Bluff with the gingerbread-style cottages as your backdrop and snag a Black Dog shirt for memories. 

4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

When we think local vacation, we think Cape Cod. This classic Massachusetts peninsula is the perfect place to indulge in the laid-back vibe of vacation any time of year. Boasting over 40 miles of coastline, this is the perfect place for the beach lover to soak up the sea. With nightlife, restaurants, art galleries, and museums sprinkled amongst the small towns, there is sure to be something for everyone in your group. Our don’t-miss summer option? Go on a whale watch to explore the ocean. For fall we encourage you to immerse yourself in the local art that can be found at many art galleries throughout the area.

5. The White Mountains

Classified as a protected national forest, the White Mountain range extends through parts of both New Hampshire and Maine. The perfect destination for fall-time leaf-peeping or winter sports, it is a great place to get away and not too far from other major cities or neighboring states. In the summer, the hiking trails in the White Mountains are plentiful and robust. In the winter, you can shred some slopes on the best mountains in New England. Our suggestion? Make it to the summit of Mount Washington by car in the fall to enjoy some of the most scenic views you will ever capture. 

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a week’s long vacation close to home, there are a multitude of options in the area. From family-friendly day trips to the perfect spot for a girl’s trip or a local honeymoon, New England has a little of something for everyone that can accommodate the changes of the season. If you’re new to the area and hoping to find out more about the best local spots, or in search of the perfect home in one of these glorious destinations, we can help. Send us a message or give us a call today.