Checking Out of the White House: Presidential Vacation Spots

We might not mingle with politicians or fly in Air Force One, but presidents are a lot like us in the summertime — they love a little sea breeze and sunshine. For centuries New England has been a summertime destination for presidential families looking to escape the craze of Washington. Whether you're a history buff or a sunbather, these  presidential vacation spots are worth exploring.

                                                Check out Historical Spots to Stay

The Lincoln Family: Manchester, VT

Lincolns, in Vermont? It's true. Manchester, VT, was once home to the Lincoln family's summer vacations. In 1905, Abraham Lincoln's son Robert built a stunning summer home named

Hildene for his family to enjoy. The home is now open to the public and welcomes visitors. Relive the lives of the Lincolns by taking a stroll through the magnificent gardens, exploring the observatory, or touring the Pullman car Sunbeam, a 10-section luxury car, originally built for president McKinley. While the same shops and restaurants may not be around anymore, Manchester, VT, still prides itself on having plenty to do all year round. A local favorite is Mount Equinox , boasting breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The mountain offers its Skyline Drive, a spectacular 5.2 mile drive to the summit, where the perfect picnic spot awaits. If you're feeling adventurous, you can hike one of the trails to the top instead. After working up an appetite treat yourself to dinner at the Silver Fork, where the Chef is always changing the menu based on what's in season and fresh at the market. Manchester, VT, is home to numerous recognized inns and resorts including where the Lincolns stayed on their first visit to the area, The Equinox. With over 200 years of history and visits by American presidents, The Equinox is the perfect luxury destination, with amenities such as an 18-hole championship design golf course, award winning spa, and 5 on site restaurants.

John F. Kennedy: Hyannis, MA

Known for its rich Kennedy family history, Hyannis, MA, is home to The Kennedy Family Compound, the famous and picturesque summer destination for generations of the Kennedy family. In 2012 the compound was donated to the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate to eventually be opened to the public. While visiting Hyannis, MA, take a sail like J.F.K around Nantucket Sound. Catboat Rides offers daily sailing trips, including excursions to see the Kennedy Compound from the water. To witness a more in depth history of the Kennedy's, visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. Multimedia exhibits explore J.F.K.’s profound love for Cape Cod and the family’s unbreakable  ties to Hyannis, MA. A visit to the Cape isn't quite complete without some chowdah, and it's said that J.F.K.’s favorite bowl was from the Black Cat Tavern. Dishing up the freshest seafood and locally inspired cuisine, it remains a local favorite to this day. Whether you want to stay on the waterfront or close to town, there’s no shortage of places to stay in Hyannis, MA and nearby towns on the Cape. Seek out a romantic, secluded inn for privacy worthy of a president, or find one waterfront and center to soak in the ocean breeze.

The Bush Family: Kennebunkport, ME

One of the most well known vacation spots of a president is Kennebunkport, ME, where visitors come just to catch a glimpse of the seaside Bush Compound. Generations of the Bush family have been seen riding the waves in President Bush’s speedboat near the Kennebunkport Marina. There, you can rent a motorboat in the summer sun or take out a kayak to paddle up the beautiful Kennebunk River. To explore the life of Barbara Bush, talk a walk through Ganny's Garden, which was created by the Kennebunk Conservation Trust in honor of her love of nature. We also recommend that visitors check out the Kennebunkport Historical Society’s First Families Museum for a glimpse into the Bush legacy in the area.

After a long day on the water it's important to get a good night's rest. The hotels and inns in Kennebunkport offer more than just a comfy pillow. Ranging from cozy inns and B&Bs to full-service resorts, Kennebunkport hotels pamper their guests with extensive breakfasts, beautiful gardens, putting greens, pools, and daily entertainment.

The Obama Family: Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Massachusetts residents see the photos in the paper every year: the Obama family takes a an annual summer vacation to beloved Martha’s Vineyard. Though current presidents don't truly get a break from their day-to-day duties, the island scenery makes a nice change from the Oval Office. When President Obama does get a few hours to himself, he's been known to polish his golf game on the Vineyard. For fun public courses, we recommend the Vineyard Golf Club and Mink Meadows Golf Club. If the kids are itching to join in, head on over to Pirate’s Cove Mini Golf. If you find yourself on Martha’s Vineyard in August be sure to check out the Oak Bluffs annual fireworks display, a summer favorite for the Obama family. Even the president can’t resist some good ol’ fried clams and a scoop of ice cream. Visit The Bite, cherished for their classic fried seafood and for dessert Mad Martha’s scoops up decadent homemade ice cream, in their newly renovated shop. Martha's Vineyard is home to many luxury hotels and resorts, as well as intimate and unique inns. The island's history adds a unique aspect to any trip — some hotels have been open since 1742, before U.S. presidents even existed — and water views are available from many hotels & inns around the island.

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