Photo by Instagrammer laceyannaleiavalentina.
Summer is still in session, and it is essential to make the most of it while you still can! Sometimes when it gets down to the wire, the thought of planning a trip sounds daunting and more stressful than its worth, but there are so many locations for a long weekend getaway that do not need to cost you an arm and a leg -- or an ounce of stress! We’ve listed a few of our favorite weekend getaway destinations here, and hope you find yourself relaxing at one of them before Labor Day weekend. If you do, get social and tag us in with the hashtag #SEARCHtheBurbs !
Beacon, NY
Photo by Instagrammer rebecca2b.
If you are looking for a fun-filled, laid back locale with gorgeous scenery that is incredibly accessible by train or car, look no further than Beacon! Right in the heart of the Hudson Highlands region, you can climb to the top of Mount Beacon at the aptly named Mount Beacon Park, or explore the ruins of the Bannerman Castle and other historic ruins. The famous museum Dia:Beacon is a known home of contemporary art, but other art hubs are Hudson Beach Glass where you can find beautiful glass sculptures and glassblowing demonstrations, and The Clutter Gallery, a place that features up-and-coming artists with a special interest in toy design, pop art, and anything low-brow. Eating at The Towne Crier Cafe is an essential stop on the list, where you can listen to live music and enjoy some legendary dessert. Take home some souvenirs from the Beacon Flea Market and Farmers Market to remember your trip by -- and don’t forget that the direct train from NYC runs all year long!
ETA: 1 hour and 36 minutes from New Providence!
New Hope, PA
Located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, New Hope is a small scenic town along the Delaware River that is filled with eclectic shopping, historic sites, and kid-friendly attractions! Their notable Main Street features many distinct boutiques and a flea market. There is a great mix of nature and history at sites such as The Delaware Canal State Park, one of the only existing canals left in the United States and an awesome place to hike or bike; and The Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, a trail where you can learn about native wildflowers, meadows, and creeks. The New Hope Railroad features a steam locomotive from 1925 that passengers can take on a 45-minute picturesque ride. Paranormal activity is also a big tourist draw for New Hope, with their walking tours through Ghost Tours of New Hope. If you love theatre, Bucks County Playhouse has some musical revue performances going throughout the summer. Book your family a bed and breakfast and enjoy a picturesque and variety-filled weekend in New Hope!
ETA: 1 hour and 38 minutes from Montclair!
The Berkshires, MA
Photo by Instagrammer lukewillis of Jacob's Pillow.
Arguably the biggest hub for summer stock theatre in the country, The Berkshires provides a live performance oasis in the midst of natural beauty and small town charm. Theaters like Barrington Stage and Williamstown Theatre Festival are consistently producing up-and-coming Broadway or Off-Broadway transfers, Jacob’s Pillow provides a home for dance with their yearly festival, and Tanglewood brings many genres of music together with performers that have perfected their craft. You can also enjoy the many museums that The Berkshires has to offer, including The Clark Institute, the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and the Norman Rockwell Museum; and other historic spots including The Mount, Edith Wharton’s estate. Take a beautiful hike on Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts, or go through a treetop adventure course at Ramblewild Adventure Park. There is something for everyone at the Berkshires, too much to fit in one long weekend -- but an annual long weekend trip might just be the tradition your family needs to start!
ETA: 1 hour 56 minutes from New Canaan!