New England Travel Quick Getaways

Let's face it: Residents in New York City probably need to get away the most, so let's start there. The hustle and bustle of downtown, Long Island and Newark are unforgiving. Thankfully, serenity awaits less than two hours away at a couple of pampering resorts. 

The Heritage Hotel is a full-service destination resort in the tranquil hills of Southbury, Connecticut about 85 miles from downtown New York City. The world-class hotel has a rustic country ambiance with all of today's modern luxury conveniences. There's a health club, spa, skiing, golf and tennis courts to help you relax, and if that's not enough then make your way to the lauded Heritage Winery for some velvety vino. Afterward, retire to one of the 163 tastefully appointed guest rooms.

The Grace Mayflower Inn & Spa in Washington, Connecticut, is an opulent boutique hotel tucked away in the New England woodlands just 91 miles from downtown New York City. The 30-room luxury inn has a 20,000-square-foot spa for the deepest relaxation, fitness center and pool. Visitors can spend their days with archery, tennis, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and zen fly casting. The on-site dining is considered some of the best in the region. The charming community of Washington offers many cute shops and fun outings for families, romantic couples and even individual explorers.

Residents of Hartford, Connecticut, are close to The Heritage Hotel and the Grace Mayflower Inn & Spa as well. Southbury is only about 40 miles from downtown Hartford, and the town of Washington is only about 50 miles away. Hartford is centrally located, so there are great excursions in every direction.

If you're looking for a traditional New England getaway, head south to historic Mystic, Connecticut, about 60 miles southeast of Hartford. The Whaler's Inn in downtown is the perfect home base to explore the area's rich history, art galleries, wineries, breweries and picturesque seaport. There's also the Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, Olde Mistick Shoppes and the Fields of Fire Adventure Park to delve into. Recently renovated rooms at the inn feature air jet soaking tubs, fireplaces and views of the Mystic River and famed local drawbridge. 

The Watson Boutique Bed and Breakfast is an 18th-Century Colonial lodge in northeast Connecticut, about 50 miles from Hartford. The classic French farmhouse-style residence is located just outside of the quaint town of Thompson. Outdoor activities at nearby Quaddick State Park and the corn maze at Fort Hill Farms will keep guests entertained all day, along with delightful downtown shops and fine dining. If you're looking for romance or laid back relaxation, take a closer look at serene Thompson for your next getaway. 

A trip away from Boston is easy to plan, and there's plenty to explore within two hours from the city. Whether it's a seaside getaway, a trip to Martha's Vineyard or a countryside vacation in the rolling hills of New England, there's no shortage of options. 

Head to the Waterfront District of downtown Plymouth for a luxury getaway to examine the roots of American history. Historic Plymouth has been greeting guests for 400 years, but the chic urban waterfront offers some of the most contemporary (and comfy) hotels and resorts in New England, only 40 miles from downtown Boston. Hotel 1620 Plymouth Harbor is the area's premier hotel and conference facility. It overlooks the bay and has all of today's modern conveniences. The popular 1620 Bistro gets guests fueled up for a day of adventure with a lavish breakfast, and is open later for dinner and cocktails. Guest rooms have all the high-end perks, and visitors love the convenient location and views. 

If rolling hills and maple trees are more your speed, head east to Amherst for a stay at the Inn at Boltwood, about 90 miles from downtown Boston in stunning Pioneer Valley. The classic New England inn has been fully restored to its original luster, and features a glorious 2,300-square-foot ballroom and tasteful guest rooms with modern comforts like pillow-top mattresses, plush linens and flat screen TVs. You'll love the farm-to-table fare at the contemporary in-house restaurant and the overall unending attention to detail. Relax by the fire pit or have a drink on the patio just off the main bar. Spend your days roaming the New England countryside, filled with antique shopping, fishing, golf, hiking, shopping, tennis and hay rack rides. 

No matter the season, it's always a good time to get away to Vermont. Head east from Albany, and there's plenty to do. Enjoy hiking, biking, fly-fishing, and golf in the summer. In the fall, a journey to see the leaves change is a must-do. In the winter, hit the nearby slopes for prime skiing, après-ski, and fascinating nightlife. 



Tee up during your downtime at the Equinox, a luxury golf resort and spa in Manchester, Vermont, about 60 miles from downtown Albany. Modern sophistication meets country charm at the Equinox. The luxury hotel has a world-renowned spa and is close to an endless list of year-round entertainment, ranging from antiquing to canoeing. The historic hotel offers 195 guest rooms, and is one of the state's oldest lodging houses. Guests rave about the one-of-a-kind dining experiences, like the Falcon Bar, Marsh Tavern and Dormy Grill. Sitting down for a glass of wine and a choice cut of steak at the Chop House is another favorite. 



For a more intimate experience, try the Inn on Putney Road in Brattleboro, Vermont, about 80 miles from Albany. The six-room bed and breakfast is close to antiquing adventures downtown, and has its own unique on-site pub with wine, hard cider and local craft beers. The inn is located near the Connecticut River and West River, with great hiking along the Hogle Wildlife Sanctuary Trail and Morningside Trail. The inn's formal garden has one of the largest collections of Japanese maple trees in North America. Romantic couples love the hearty two-course breakfast in the sun-filled breakfast room before a big day exploring the New England countryside.