7 Road Trips To Take This Summer From NYC

Summer is right around the corner, but it will be a summer like no other. With travel restrictions still in place and many international borders still closed, we all need to think local! A road trip is the perfect way to still get a bit of a summer vacation while staying as safe as possible. Avoiding large cities is crucial right now as they require more hotel like stays, restaurant meals, and crowded areas in general. But taking a road trip to a nature destination and renting a home allows for a safer getaway. I’ve gathered some of my favorite places we have escaped to in the past.

Shelter Island

Shelter Island is a summer dream come true. The perfect distance from the city to feel like you’ve had a family fun road trip but not long enough to all go mad. Hehe. Once you’ve arrived your kids will enjoy a ferry ride, building sand castles at the beach, poolside snack breaks, and more. Us adults relish in the fresh seafood, beautiful quaint architecture, and the gorgeous sunsets. I’ve been counting down the days until we get to go back.

Kennebunkport Maine

Only five short hours away from New York City is the quintessential town of Kennebunkport Maine. When we went 2 summers ago and I was truly on a summer cloud 9! We indulged in an abundance of lobster, salt water taffy, fresh creamery ice cream, just to name a few. Our days were spent on the beach, bike riding, and making s’mores at our hotel in the evenings. We really had the most amazing Maine experience. Maine in general is an amazing place to spend summer.

Lake George, New York

Head north to Lake George for the ultimate summer mountain escape. Our kids just loved the scenic 4-hour road trip from NYC. As soon as we arrived we knew it would be an amazing weekend. Lake George is undeniably a gorgeous place to spend your summer days. Whether you’re enjoying the lake kayaking or poolside with a book you’re bound the have an amazing city escape.

Berkshires

Very rarely Jason and I carve out some alone time for mom/dad adventures. In 2017 we decided to take a road trip to the Berkshires for some R&R. The Berkshires are peaceful & absolutely breathtaking. We spent our few short days hiking and eating up all the farm to table fares. Just the relaxing weekend we needed. A great destination for renting a home and safely enjoying the outdoors during covid-19.

Lake Morey, Vermont

Our stay at Lake Morey was filled with memories and a couple of family firsts. It will always be the place where Ryder and Siella learned to paddleboard. My children really have such an appreciation for country life, because it’s something we don’t get to experience that often. I love how they are open to new adventures, new scenarios, and have already asked to return for the winter sports activities. Lake Morey was definitely a place dedicated to families.

Adirondacks

Last fall we spent a weekend in the Adirondacks and it was so beautiful. Its a four hour drive from New York City and a great place to get some air while social distancing. Between the lakes and all the mountains is a great place all year round when seeking a nature getaway. Easily enjoy all the delicious farm to table food and explore the hiking trails.

Montauk, New York

We all know my heart belongs out East in the Hamptons, but Montauk is the cool laid back sister to the Hamptons. Local pancake houses, surf culture, beach cottages, etc. We just love the beach town vibe Montauk offers all year round and I know we’ll be back this summer!