Cold weather getting you antsy? Warm up at the
Miami Beach Edition, a short plane ride from NYC
With the holiday cheer and New Year’s Eve bubbly now behind us, it’s all too easy go into January feeling like the celebrating has come to a halting stop. But, we’re here to tell you that’s not the case! As we head into 2017, our calendars remind us that we have a few three-day weekends to look forward to—which gives the perfect excuse to plan a trip and have something to look forward to during these wintery months.
If you live in Los Angeles…
Get Away to Santa Barbara
From cozy winter beach walks to wine tasting and restaurant-exploring, Santa Barbara is the perfect, easy escape from the city of angels. And, since it’s only a 2-hour drive north of Los Angeles, it’s the perfect getaway for minimizing your travel time and maximizing your relaxation time. Where to shop? State Street. Where to wine-taste? The Funk Zone. Where to stay? Hotel Milo.
Get Away to Mammoth
So… You’re in the mood for a little change of weather from the constant state of 75-and-sunny in LA? Mammoth, which is about a 5-6 hour drive from the city, is the perfect snowy destination. You can spend your days skiing and snowboarding, or take the more mellow route and drink wine by the fireplace. Looking to make a special dinner reservation? Go to The Lakefront for hearty mountain fare like angus steak and mushroom risotto.
Get Away to Palm Springs
There’s something magical about driving the two hours out to the desert from L.A. Heading to Palm Springs puts you in instant vacation mode, and there are so many great new restaurants and hotels to explore in this cute little palm tree-lined town. Head to Norma’s at the Parker Palm Springs for your boozy weekend brunch, and splash around at the Ace Hotel pool all day long. To satisfy your shopping bug, make sure to stop at Dazzles for the best vintage finds, and then hit the Cabazon Outlets for incredible deals on so many brands.
If You Live in New York…
Get Away to Miami
Flights to Miami from the city are super affordable (I mean, we’re talking only $99!), and this city in the Southeast is a great warm destination to get away to. It only takes three hours to travel by plane, and if you’re looking for warmer weather, it’s worth it. Check out the Miami Beach Edition for a great beachside hang, Casa Tua for a delicious girls’ dinner (order the caviar pasta!) and Collins Avenue for Instagram-worth Art Deco architecture.
Get Away to Hamptons / Shelter Island
While merely mentioning “The Hamptons” will probably have you conjuring up images of sandy beaches and summertime rosé, this destination isn’t just for the warm months of the year. The Hamptons are a great option for a winter getaway from the Big Apple because of the super discounted prices on transportation and accommodations due to the off-season. And, even though it may be cold and snowy, many wineries are still open for tastings (one of our favorites being The Woffler Estate Vineyard, which does “Candlelight Fridays” with live music during the winter months). If you don’t feel like heading out in the cold, you can cozy up by the fireplace in a cute beachside Airbnb for the weekend.
Get Away to Finger Lakes
A five-hour drive north east of the city lands you in the charming town of Finger Lakes in upstate New York. A weekend in this lakeside town gives you plenty of options when it comes to activities—from skiing to wine tasting to brewery touring, Finger Lakes is a great suburban getaway for the city dweller. Check the schedule at the Alpine Valley Music Theatre before heading out in case there might be a good show that weekend. And, if you find yourself with a sweet tooth, get a cone at J. Lauber’s Ice Cream Parlor.
If You Live in Chicago…
Get Away to Lake Geneva
This getaway takes the cake on our list for the shortest travel time… It only takes an hour and a half to arrive in this low-key lake town. You can keep things mellow by staying in one of the bed and breakfasts (don’t forget to bring a great book!), or get out and about with skiing, snowmobiling and touring the gorgeous homes in the area. The Grand Geneva Resort and Spa is their famous resort worth visiting—even if it’s just for a fireside glass of champagne.
Get Away to Alpine Valley, Wisconsin
It might not be the Rocky Mountains, but Alpine Valley can provide a much-needed getaway for any Chicagoan. Just a little bit north of Lake Geneva, Alpine Valley is a short drive from the city and boasts fabulous ski resorts that will satisfy your craving for an active weekend vacay. If you’re looking to hit the slopes, check out Green Peak Mountain Resort, Labrador Mountain, or Toggenburg Mountain.
Get Away to Louisville, Kentucky
An hour and a half by plane or five hours by car, Louisville has plenty to do if you’re looking for a weekend away from Chi town. It’s a foodie town, so the restaurants are fabulous (try Proof on Main, Jack Fry’s or Mayan Café). If you’re feeling up for some rustic fun, travel Louisville’s bourbon distillery trail in downtown. Kentucky Peerless Distilling, The Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience and Copper and Kings are all good places to start.
And there you have it. If you have any great getaway suggestions for the long holiday weekends ahead, be sure to comment below with your two cents. We’d love to read your recommendations!
What’s your favorite getaway destination when a holiday weekend hits?
XO Team LC
Photos: Instagram via @jillianattaway