Written by: PHG agent Kate McCann

As much as I love Philadelphia, I’m a sucker for a few days away from the city. These getaways are usually filled with exploring mountains, driving down quiet roads, and finding the best local eateries. I often wake up with an Instagram DM asking me for a recommendation on an Airbnb in rural PA, or the best place for a cocktail in the Hudson Valley. So I thought I’d share some of my favorite weekend escapes with you, so you can soak up the best things outside of our city!

Facebook Photo Credit: Muggles-Mug-Coffee-Shop | TheInnAtBirchWilds | chantillygoods | Moya

Jim Thorpe, PA | 1.5 hour drive

The fairytale town of Jim Thorpe is nestled in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains. It’s one of those towns you wish you could keep to yourself, it’s that magical.

Stay: Inn at Birch Wilds, a sweet inn with mountain views.

Eat: Start your morning at Muggle’s Mug for coffee, get your mid-day fuel in the form of an ice cream soda at Chantilly Goods! Head to Moya for beer and possibly the best dinner you’ve ever had.

See/Shop: Hop onto a vintage coach on the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway for breathtaking views of the landscape (be sure the train is running during your trip dates).

Kingston, NY | 3 hour drive

This lesser-visited Hudson Valley town has just as much to do as its sister towns of Hudson, Beacon, and Rhinebeck. It’s filled with specialty shops, some of the best wines, and farm to table restaurants.

Stay: Vogue approved, The Forsyth B & B offers chic rooms and a full breakfast!

Eat: Try Brunette Wine Bar for incredible wine, music, and bites or Outdated Cafe for coffee, vegetarian bites, and antiques for sale.

See/Shop: Kingston Wine Co, Rough Draft (for books, coffee, and booze!), Clove & Creek for a little something to take home.

Livingston Manor, NY | 3.25 hour drive

Set in the southern Catskills, Livingston Manor is a hopping town with so much surrounding nature to explore and charm to adore.

Stay: The Red Rose Motel, thoughtful, cozy rooms and one kickass tavern!

Eat: Dine on pizza and cocktails at The Kaatskeller, discover local goods and yummy sandwiches at Main Street Farm. Make a reservation at Northern Farmhouse Pasta for a special dinner!

See/Shop: Meet some darling animals at Buckbrook Alpacas, stretch your legs at Round Top Trail ! Browse Long Weekend for beautifully sourced home goods.

Cape May, NJ | 1.5 hour drive

Who doesn’t love a quiet beach escape in the winter? Grab a cup of hot coffee and walk on the beach sans all the noisy humans. Many of Cape May’s stores and restaurants close shop for the season, so make sure to check availability—but there is still plenty to do!

Stay: Stay Lokal with super stylish suites and a heated pool!

Eat: Make brunch plans at Bella Vida then head to Hawk Haven Vineyard for wine!

See/Shop: Treat yourself to the sweet and savory delight inside Peanut Butter Co before hanging out with all the creatures inside the Cape May Zoo.

With all these exceptional choices, take a moment to change your scene. Be sure to call ahead and double check the status of all the local businesses listed here. They are small, they are local and Covid regulations change quickly. Now go ahead, grab a mask and enjoy!

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