Along the water, find urban action in Washington, D.C., and rural relaxation in nearby Harpers Ferry.

Four hours from Manhattan, the first state's overlooked beachfront has the same pristine sand as the Jersey Shore—minus the crowds, noise, and prices.

Follow a steady influx of expats to this Nicaraguan city that thrives on new hotels, cheap shopping, and a welcoming social scene.

Take advantage of the brief summer weeks when iceberg-watching season overlaps with prime whale-watching time.

Canada's oldest city also has the country's best food, from highbrow French-fries-and-gravy to croissants that would make a Parisian jealous.

Hours vary by weekend, but a free ferry generally leaves from the Battery Maritime Building on the hour.

Where to bike, golf, climb on sculpture, and, of course, get some snacks.

And some Dutch influences, too.

Ice cream, yes. Hotel SpongeBob, no. As president of the Governors Island Preservation & Education Corporation, Leslie Koch has to make the hard calls.

Governors Island has become an enticing day trip in New York City.