6 road trips for spring 2021 getaways

As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend not traveling at this time., individuals who feel comfortable traveling now might want to consider one of these easily drivable getaways.

Watkins Glen, New York (5 hrs 30 mins)

Watkins Glen and Schuyler County are located on the southern shore of beautiful Seneca Lake in the heart of New York’s agriculturally rich Finger Lakes Region. The centerpiece of the region’s offerings is the array of wineries, breweries, distilleries, and hard cider producers that are open to the public. I(s other major attractions are the waterfall-filled Watkins Glen State Park, the Drive The Glen! experience at the Watkins Glen International raceway, and the nearby interactive Corning Museum of Glass

Where to stay: Set on the shore of Seneca Lake on the edge of Watkin Glen’s walkable downtown, Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is a four diamond AAA-rate hotel. It features generously sized deluxe guestrooms and suites, an indoor pool, fitness center, and onsite Blue Pointe Grille and Coldwater Bar.

Atlantic City, New Jersey (3 hrs 30 mins)

Dubbed the “seaside gaming and resort capital of the East Coast,” Atlantic City is home to nine massive casino properties, celebrity chef restaurants, a downtown open-air outlet mall, multiple entertainment venues, and more than a dozen championship-caliber golf courses. There is also the city’s famed boardwalk that extends four miles along the city’s pristine beachfront and connects to the Steel Pier amusement park.

Where to stay: The award-winning Ocean Casino Resort spans 20 beachfront acres on the northern end of the Boardwalk. As the tallest building in Atlantic City, the tower encompasses 1,399 guest rooms and suites with unparalleled views. Its offerings include nearly 2,000 slot machines, 125 table games, sportsbook in partnership with William Hill, more than 15 restaurants, multiple pools,, spa and fitness center.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (2 hrs 15 mins)

The birthplace of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, Philadelphia—named one of the top destinations in the world to visit in 2021 by Condé Nast Traveler—is home to world-class museums, historic sites, and a diverse array of restaurants. Philly visitors also have the added benefit of nearby attractions such as Adventure Aquarium in Camden, N.J.; Longwood Gardens, in Kennett Square, Pa.; and Valley Forge National Historical Park, in Valley Forge, Pa.

Where to stay: Housed in the first skyscraper ever built in the City of Brotherly Love and centrally located, the Loews Philadelphia Hotel features 581 guest rooms and 12 suites with sweeping city views. Its amenities include a spa, salon, fitness center, and indoor pool. In addition, there is an on-site restaurant, lobby bar, and grab-and-go market.

Baltimore, Maryland (1 hr)

From waterfront Canton to hipster Hampden, Baltimore is filled with eclectic neighborhoods ready to be explored. A few must-sees are the Inner Harbor’s historic ships and National Aquarium; Federal Hill’s American Visionary Arts Museum; Remington’s R.House food hall, and Port Covington’s Sagamore Spirit Distillery. Booking a food tour with –Bite of Baltimore or taking a self-guided architectural tour via GPSMYCITY are also great ways to experience Charm City

Where to stay: A stay at Baltimore Marriott Waterfront places directly on the picturesque Inner Harbor.. It has 750 spacious rooms and suites, a fitness center , and on-site dining options. Guest are centrally located with easy assess to most of the city, including Federal Hill Park via the Harbor Connector.

Richmond, Virginia (2 hrs)

Richmond is among America’s most historic cities; however, it is also a place moving forward—providing visitors a robust opportunity to blend the old and the new. For glimpses of past Richmond, there are the American City War Museum, Virginia Museum of History & Culture, and St. John’s Church. And the independent stories, restaurants, and entertainment venues in Richmond’s Carytown neighborhood provide a great sampling of the city’s current progression.

Where to stay: Quirk Hotel is an art-centric boutique property in Richmond’s thriving Arts District. The hotel’s 74 guestrooms, including five suites, and four terrace rooms, each feature original artwork. There is also an art gallery in the lobby along with a restaurant and coffee shop.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware (2 hrs 30 mins)

A trip to Rehoboth Beach and the surrounding Southern Delaware area is perfect for those seeking a laidback getaway focused on beautiful nature walks, fun-filled boardwalks, and unique eating and shopping opportunities along the sidewalks. Beyond exploring the miles of stunning beaches,, popular activities include eating some Grotto Pizza, drinking some Dogfish Head beer, finding some tax-free bargains at the Tanger Outlets, and dolphin watching with Fisherman’s Wharf.

Where to stay: Conveniently located one block from the boardwalk and beach, Avenue Inn & Spa has consistently ranked as one of the top properties—including being a TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice “Best of the Best winner for 2020—in Rehoboth Beach Complimentary daily breakfast, afternoon hospitality hour, and parking for one vehicle are just some of its amenities,,


* NOTE: Each of the recommendedhotels are practicing precautions and preventive measures in line with federal, state, and local guidelines

Troy Petenbrink

Troy, also known as The Gay Traveler, is a well known travel and food writer. His has been a regular contributor to a variety of outlets including National Geographic, Travel Channel, DCRefined, CBS Local, and Metro Weekly. He also appears on local Washington news outlets as a travel expert.

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