Summer’s here and you don’t need to go far to enjoy some invigorating time off. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled when you follow this guide for one of these cost effective, memorable getaways. Because you saved money on gas or airplane tickets, put that windfall toward pampering and good fun in your own backyard.
Romantic Resort Staycation
What To Do
National Harbor is a waterfront resort with an island sensibility. Enjoy retail therapy at the boutiques and outlet stores. Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle around the Potomac. In the evening, the Capital Wheel offers a bird’s eye view of Washington D.C. and Alexandria. Play some beach volleyball or settle in for outdoor movie under the stars. Family movies are Sundays at 6 pm, and Date Night Movies are Thursdays at 7 pm. (877-628-5427)
Where to Eat
Make a reservation at Succotash, where an award-winning chef serves the Southern classics (301-839-1630). Old Hickory Steakhouse in the Gaylord Hotel is a first-class dining experience with a cheese sommelier who introduces guests to local and international cheeses (301-965-5100). For a selection of craft brew and seafood specialties, grab a seat on the deck at Walrus Oyster & Ale House. (301-567-6100)
Where to Stay
Check into the four-diamond Gaylord Resort Hotel & Conference Center with its 19-story high glass atrium filled with gardens, restaurants, a spa and salon. Swim in their spacious indoor pool, or decompress in the fitness center and whirlpool. Before retiring, check out the Pose Rooftop Lounge to relish the twinkling nighttime landscape. (301-965-4000)
Outdoor Family Adventure
What To Do
Celebrate the National Park’s 100th Anniversary in Shenandoah National Park. With miles of scenic hiking trails, traverse the high country for panoramic views and to catch glimpses of wildlife. Take a ride on a friendly horse at Skyland Stables. Be sure to observe the sun’s mystical effects on the lines of mountains that make up the Blue Ridge. (540-999-3500)
Where to Eat
While you’re in Shenandoah National Park, stop for lunch at Big Meadows Wayside. Known for their heaping pancakes and fried chicken, the lodge serves family friendly meals all day. (540-999-2211) If you’re visiting Luray Caverns, stop in the Gathering Grounds on Main Street in downtown Luray, for the live music and burgers. (540-743-1121)
Where to Stay
Skyland Resort is perched along Skyline Drive on Shenandoah National Park’s highest peak. The resort has stunning views and provides easy access to hiking trails. The rustic resort was recently renovated and serves meals all day on their patio and dining room. Skyland’s Mountain Taproom features local craft beers on tap and nightly entertainment. (540-999-2212)
Philadelphia History & Food Tour
What To Do
Philly is walkable city with historic sites, world-class museums and stunning architecture. The Benjamin Franklin Museum, Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, are free National Park sites worth a visit. The Barnes Foundation has a jaw-dropping collection of Post-Impressionist paintings. The Franklin Institute’s scientific exhibits will amaze and thrill visitors of all ages. The Betsy Ross House living history actors tell the story of pre-Revolutionary America. (visitphilly.com)
Where to eat
Philadelphia was a foodie town long before it was in style. The best place to sample Philly’s signature cuisine is at Reading Terminal Market. The merchants in the historic building sell baked goods, specialty foods and hot meals you can enjoy on the spot. Don’t miss the cheesesteaks at Spataro and the Whoopie Pies at Flying Monkey Bakery. (215-922-2317)
Where to stay
The Sonesta Philadelphia Downtown is a newly refurbished hotel with an ideal location for exploring the city. Comfortable guest rooms are spacious enough for families and luxurious enough for couples; but what makes this hotel a standout is the friendliness of the staff. You’ll love the views from their rooftop pool and patio. (855-268-3178)
Wine Country Weekends
What to do
Just a few miles from the DC line you’ll find dozens of wineries welcoming visitors to tour, taste and buy. Focus on Loudoun Heights, where the mountains provide a scenic backdrop to the fine tasting rooms of Breaux Vineyards, Doukenie Winery, 8 Chains North and Hillsborough Vineyards. Learn how these small batch wineries cultivate and harvest fields of grape vines to make Virginia the Napa of the East. (visitloudoun.org)
Where to eat
A hometown favorite, Grandale Vintner’s Table, is located at 868 Estate Vineyards. This elegant restaurant features the vineyard’s own wines and an upscale menu. (540-668-6000) Down the road, in the little town of Lovettsville, you’ll find the buzziest new restaurant in Loudoun, Market Table Bistro. Here, the chef creatively showcases the best of Loudoun wines and seasonal produce. (540-822-3008)
Where to stay
Savor the rustic comfort of Alta Terra Bed & Breakfast located on Route 9 near Mechanicsville. The small inn doesn’t get overrun by weddings and has acres of farmland to wander. (540-668-6913) For the luxurious experiences offered by a full-service resort, choose the newly renovated Lansdowne Resort and Spa. Relax by the resort’s five pools, play some golf, or pamper yourself with a spa treatment. (703-729-8400)
Girls’ Staycation
What To Do
Gather the girls together for a spa treatment at the sumptuous The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Tysons Corner. The hotel offers skin care, body treatments and massage therapy using natural ingredients like avocado, brown sugar and seaweed. After indulging in a healthful treatment, luxuriate in the Ritz-Carlton’s steam room and sauna, or swim a few laps in their indoor pool. You will come out refreshed and ready for a night out on the town. (703-744-3924).
Where to Eat
Plan your staycation around one of the neighborhood’s favorite dining spots—America Eats Tavern. Renowned chef José Andrés offers a new take on American classics, celebrating a delectable array of native ingredients in some of the country’s most historic dishes. (703-744-3999). After your meal, head to Babalu Tysons, a new Miami-style cocktail lounge and hookah bar. (703-388-1001).
Where to Stay
Staybridge Suites in McLean has expansive suite-style rooms where four can sleep comfortably. Store your refreshments in Staybridge’s mini kitchenettes. The next morning, fuel up at the complimentary breakfast and end your time together reading and talking by their sunny outdoor pool (703-448-5400).
