• Intelligencer
  • The Cut
  • Vulture
  • The Strategist
  • Curbed
  • Grub Street
  • Subscribe to the Magazine Give a Gift Subscription Buy Back Issues Current Issue Contents
    Subscribe to New York Magazine
  • Subscribe
  • Profile
    Sign Out
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Technology
  • Ideas
  • About Intelligencer
  • Newsletters
  • NYMag.com
  • New York Magazine
  • Intelligencer
  • Vulture
  • The Cut
  • The Strategist
  • Grub Street
  • Curbed
Subscribe Give A Gift
  • Politics
  • Business
  • Technology
  • Ideas
  • About Intelligencer
  • Newsletters
  • NYMag.com
  • New York Magazine
  • Intelligencer
  • Vulture
  • The Cut
  • The Strategist
  • Grub Street
  • Curbed
  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Pin It
+Comments Leave a Comment
Sponsor Story
This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Brand Studio. The editorial staff of Daily Intelligencer did not play a role in its creation.
Sponsored
May 2, 2017

7 Memorial Day Weekend Getaways That Beat the Beach

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial kick-off of summer, and accompanying visions of sun and sand. But the reality of spending MDW in the Hamptons or at the Jersey Shore — complete with navigating atrocious traffic and fighting tooth and nail for one three-by-three patch of beach — almost always fails to live up to expectations.

This year, think outside the beach. Below are a few of our favorite spots to consider, plus incredible Booking.com hotels, B&Bs, inns, and more to call home base during your stay.

1. The Catskills and Upstate New York

For a dose of true R&R, skip the Jitney and rent some wheels to explore upstate New York’s treasures. The Catskills are the epitome of a breath of fresh air this time of year: Peruse the picturesque shops on Warren Street in Hudson; explore the region via hiking trail, canoe, or kayak; or head to Woodstock, an artsy slice of upstate that’s eclectic and charming all at once. The Finger Lakes also offer vineyard tours for a taste of New York state’s red and white — though you’ll have to bring your own blue.

Where to stay: The region offers a variety of cozy bed and breakfasts — an ideal setting for a romantic escape.

2. Washington, D.C.

For those seeking to capitalize on the weekend’s inherent patriotism, there’s truly no better destination than D.C. From the yuppie mecca of Georgetown to up-and-coming, trendy neighborhoods like Adams Morgan and U Street, there’s something for everyone: nightlife, culture, arts — and of course, a solemn sense of remembrance that pervades the memorials, monuments, and historical landmarks about town.

There’s no shortage of patriotic activity to immerse yourself in: catch a Nats game, stroll the Mall, or head to any number of D.C.’s renowned landmarks to dig into the true meaning behind Memorial Day. Fittingly, the city plays host to the largest Memorial Day parade in the country.

Where to stay: Book a room at the Jefferson Hotel, a boutique hotel in the heart of the city (the White House is just over a half mile away), to get a true taste for the history-rich spirit of D.C.

3. Vermont

Vermont has more than exceptional skiing and really good cheddar. In fact, it’s off-season offerings include glamping and a plethora of outdoorsy activities, and also luxurious spa treatments at would-be ski chalets. Burlington, Stowe, and Woodstock are three of the most popular towns to visit this time of year. Hop on a bike for a casual ride along the Lake Champlain path while soaking in the sights of this lovely corner of the country.

Where to stay: Explore any number of the quaint, charming inns and bed and breakfasts typically popular during ski season.

4. White Mountains, New Hampshire

A family friendly oasis in northern New Hampshire, the White Mountains are home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern U.S. The scenic roads that weave through the range make it an ideal destination to visit via road trip. On the way, explore the White Mountain National Forest, stop by a variety of stunning state parks, and spend the weekend chasing waterfalls.

Where to stay: Relax and unwind at a bed and breakfast just outside the White Mountain National Forest for easy access to nature with a side of comfort.

5. Montreal, Quebec

Head north to Montreal, Quebec for an easy (and comparatively affordable) way to feel as if you’re embarking on a three-day vacation to Europe; many-a-visitor have compared the town to a mini version of Paris. While you’re there, enjoy a dose of the city’s quintessential whimsy: cat cafes, intriguing architecture, consignment shops, avant-garde art galleries, and street installations like the giant chess set in Place Émilie-Gamelin. It’s only a six-hour drive from New York, although Amtrak routes run regularly if you don’t want to risk traffic.

Where to stay: Pamper yourself at the Renaissance Montreal, an upscale hotel just steps from the city center. Or, for a taste of authentic city living, opt for apartment-style lodgings like Castel Durocher, just a 10-minute walk from Quartier des Spectacles (Montreal’s entertainment district).

6. The Berkshires

This rural, western area of Massachusetts and Connecticut is another back-to-nature spot for those seeking a break from the standard madness of MDW. Part of the Appalachians, the Berkshires’ surrounding scenery is the true embodiment of purple mountain majesty — and it’s about as serene a place as you’ll find just about a three hours drive from town. A hiker’s paradise and a yogi’s dream come true, this is the ideal destination for those who want to spend their Memorial Day weekend less concerned with brews and BBQ and more immersed in mindfulness.

Suggested accommodations: Check into a bed and breakfast just a short driving distance from many of the Berkshires’ most notable attractions.

7. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

If you’re opting to skip the beach but still want to feel the sea breeze, Portsmouth, New Hampshire is an easy decision. The town, best explored on foot, is at once authentically local and unequivocally inviting. Portsmouth offers a variety of quintessential American seaside activities, from waterfront picnicking to afternoons people-watching at the wharf. Don’t miss out on Prescott Park, an urban riverfront oasis that’s sure to be beautifully in bloom this time of year.

Where to stay: Call historic Haymarket Square home base when you book a room at the Hotel Portsmouth. This Victorian-manor-turned-hotel has been updated with all the usual modern comforts.

This is paid content produced for an advertiser by New York Brand Studio. The editorial staff of Daily Intelligencer did not play a role in its creation.

Tags:

  • paid story
  • s booking
+Comments Leave a Comment
7 Weekend Destinations Better Than the Beach

Most Viewed Stories

  1. Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse?
  2. Trump’s First 2024 Pitch: It’s Me or World War III
  3. Here’s Every Single Lie Told by George Santos
  4. A Sixth Officer Has Been Suspended After Tyre Nichols’s Death: Updates
  5. This Is a Snow Lover’s Nightmare
  1. Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse?
  2. Here’s Every Single Lie Told by George Santos
  3. A Sixth Officer Has Been Suspended After Tyre Nichols’s Death: Updates
  4. Tyre Nichols and the End of Police Reform
  5. Trump’s First 2024 Pitch: It’s Me or World War III

Editor’s Picks

  • neighborhoods
    Does New York’s Chinatown Really Need an Arch? Does New York’s Chinatown Really Need an Arch?
  • screen time
    Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse? Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse?
  • spring fashion
    It’s Glo Time It’s Glo Time
THE FEED
5:47 p.m.
royals
royals
King Charles Is Ready to Trash Harry — or Declare a Truce
By Margaret Hartmann
Or Prince Harry is right about the U.K. press relentlessly peddling utter nonsense.
5:05 p.m.
tyre nichols
tyre nichols
A Sixth Officer Has Been Suspended After Tyre Nichols’s Death: Updates
By Intelligencer Staff
The officer was relieved of duty the same day the five officers charged with murder were fired for the beating.
4:17 p.m.
politics
politics
Manhattan DA Moves Closer to Charging Trump Over Stormy Daniels Hush Money
By Nia Prater
Prosecutors have begun to present evidence to a Manhattan grand jury from their inquiry into hush payments made to Stormy Daniels on behalf of Trump.

Most Popular

  1. Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse?
    By John Herrman
  2. Trump’s First 2024 Pitch: It’s Me or World War III
    By Chas Danner
  3. Here’s Every Single Lie Told by George Santos
    By Matt Stieb
  4. This Is a Snow Lover’s Nightmare
    By Benjamin Hart
  5. A Sixth Officer Has Been Suspended After Tyre Nichols’s Death: Updates
    By Intelligencer Staff
  1. Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse?
    By John Herrman
  2. Here’s Every Single Lie Told by George Santos
    By Matt Stieb
  3. A Sixth Officer Has Been Suspended After Tyre Nichols’s Death: Updates
    By Intelligencer Staff
  4. Tyre Nichols and the End of Police Reform
    By Zak Cheney-Rice
  5. Trump’s First 2024 Pitch: It’s Me or World War III
    By Chas Danner
4:03 p.m.
on with kara swisher
on with kara swisher
Kara Swisher on Mark Zuckerberg’s Never-ending Trump Problem
By Intelligencer Staff
In this episode of On With Kara Swisher, Kara reflects on more than 15 years of covering Facebook and why bringing back Trump is a lose-lose.
3:35 p.m.
ftx fallout
ftx fallout
The FTX Investigations Are Getting Messy
By Matt Stieb
Prosecutors say SBF may have engaged in witness tampering. Meanwhile, Caroline Ellison and others aren’t cooperating in the bankruptcy case.
1:54 p.m.
early and often
early and often
Trump Won’t Go Away Unless a Republican Actually Beats Him
By Ed Kilgore
The 2024 invisible primary is well underway, and Donald Trump is winning it, wishful thinking aside.
1:39 p.m.
sports
sports
The Empire State Building Should Stop Doing This
By Benjamin Hart
Commemorating a sports rival’s victory is uncouth and unnecessary.
10:43 a.m.
politics
politics
Tyre Nichols’s Parents Will Attend Biden’s State of the Union
By Nia Prater
The Congressional Black Caucus extended the invitation.
10:00 a.m.
screen time
screen time
Why Does It Feel Like Amazon Is Making Itself Worse?
By John Herrman
The “everything store” has gotten junkier and more chaotic. But, for the company, it’s only good business.
8:00 a.m.
the inside game
the inside game
Joe Biden’s Big Lesson From the Last Debt-Ceiling Fight
By Gabriel Debenedetti
And why this time is totally different from 2011. Hopefully.
1/29/2023
early and often
early and often
Trump’s First 2024 Pitch: It’s Me or World War III
By Chas Danner
The former president had some things to say at his first two official campaign events over the weekend.
1/29/2023
talking about the weather
talking about the weather
This Is a Snow Lover’s Nightmare
By Benjamin Hart
New York has broken a snowless record — and there’s no end in sight to this gray misery.
1/29/2023
2024 vision
2024 vision
2024 Looks Very Dark for Senate Democrats
By Ed Kilgore
Or why the party really, really needs Joe Manchin.
1/28/2023
the system
the system
Tyre Nichols and the End of Police Reform
By Zak Cheney-Rice
His death is evidence that cosmetic change can’t excise the rot of American law enforcement.
1/28/2023
fear vs. fun
fear vs. fun
Phone, Keys, Wallet, Test Strip
By Kyra Breslin
Checking for fentanyl is becoming a necessary ritual of nightlife.
1/27/2023
early and often
early and often
Republicans Want Surrender, Not a Deal, on the Debt Ceiling
By Ed Kilgore
There can be no “bipartisan” solution to the debt-ceiling crisis when one party refuses to talk about the revenue side of the ledger.
1/27/2023
the talented mr. santos
the talented mr. santos
George Santos Commemorates Holocaust After Lying About It
By Nia Prater
The U.S. representative, who doesn’t actually have Jewish heritage but may have made antisemitic remarks, gave a speech on Holocaust Remembrance Day.
1/27/2023
early and often
early and often
McDaniel Hangs Onto RNC Gavel Despite DeSantis Defection
By Ed Kilgore
Harmeet Dhillon threw a scare into the chair of the RNC, but even late support from DeSantis didn’t convince party voters away from backing McDaniel.
1/27/2023
early and often
early and often
Judge Orders Release of Video Showing Attack on Paul Pelosi
By Matt Stieb
The body-cam footage of the responding officer shows Pelosi and assailant David DePape struggling over a hammer before the assault.
1/27/2023
early and often
early and often
Republicans Are Already Burying Their Kooky National Sales-Tax Plan
By Ed Kilgore
McCarthy promised a floor vote on the Fair Tax, which would create a 30 percent national sales tax and abolish the IRS. Now, it may die in committee.
1/27/2023
the talented mr. santos
the talented mr. santos
Here’s Every Single Lie Told by George Santos
By Matt Stieb
Navigating the many exaggerations and falsehoods of New York’s newest representative.
1/27/2023
the national interest
the national interest
The Durham Probe Was Barr’s Witch Hunt
By Jonathan Chait
A shockingly unethical crusade to vindicate Trump.
1/27/2023
just asking questions
just asking questions
How an 18-Year-Old Got His Crossword Puzzle Into the Sunday Times
By Benjamin Hart
High-school senior Garrett Chalfin on winning over the editors — and the jocks at summer camp — with wordplay.
1/27/2023
guns
guns
Coming Soon to Stores: The AR-15 for Kids
By Matt Stieb
Next month, an assault-style rifle could wind up in the hands of children unless regulators step in.
1/27/2023
early and often
early and often
The Data-Driven Strategy Behind Democrats’ State-Level Success in 2022
By Eric Levitz
The president’s party almost always loses state-level power in midterm elections. Here’s how Democrats bucked that trend last year.
  • About Intelligencer
  • About New York Magazine
  • Newsletters
  • Help
  • Contact
  • Press
  • Media Kit
  • We’re Hiring
  • Privacy
  • Terms
  • Ad Choices
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
  • Accessibility
intelligencer is a Vox Media Network. © 2023 Vox Media, LLC. All rights reserved.