Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
First of all, this is 2018 and the Philadelphia Eagles are Superbowl champions (finally) – congrats! As one of the oldest cities in America (founded 1682 ), Philadelphia has a lot to offer in the historical district, and it’s a great weekend getaway from NYC (quick train ride away).
See: As a history buff, this is THE City where it all happened (for the U.S., the most part). Talk a walkabout to visit Independence Hall, Liberty Bell & the National Constitution Center. Walk the schuylkill river trail on the way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and yes, the Rocky steps. Hit the Rittenhouse Square for the farmers market on the weekends, do some casual shopping (the original Anthropologie is there) or grab a glass of wine and watch the world goes by. Of course, there are a plethora of incredible museums here so you will not be left wanting…
Eat: The food scene here is getting stronger all the time, though everyone will try to sell you on a classic Philly steak sandwich. Here is Eater’s recent list of 38 essential restaurants.
Stay: Personally, I love staying in the historical area, with the tree & brownstone lined streets, so the last few times I used Airbnb for some beautiful homes. Both both of the Kimpton hotels, Morris House Hotel, Rittenhouse Hotel are all lovely choices. (There are a lot to choose from but hotels here fill up fast due to business in the City)
Head out to the (PA) Country
Having grown up out West-ish, it took me a long time to figure out the geography of the North East and what trips were reasonably close to NYC. Why it took me so long to realize that Pennsylvania was a great option, I’ll never know. A friend recently offered up her farm house near Damascus, Pennsylvania and I jumped at the opportunity. Peace, quiet, farms and a lake? I was in. A cluster of small towns are arranged around Damascus, and I am sure many vacation rentals as well. This place is all about unplugging, being outdoors, and being cozy in the evenings. About a 90 minute drive from the City, you might want to rethink the overcrowded Hamptons…