Memorial Day, gay pride and Fourth of July are fading further into the rearview mirror. Although we’ve passed the season’s halfway point, we still have several weeks of summer ahead of us. This is the best time to take a Friday or Monday off work and enjoy an impromptu three-day weekend. Here are some suggestions on how to spend it:
Plan a “staycation”
You don’t have to get out of town to relax: You may simply need a change of scenery. Spending a night or two at a local hotel can provide a break without the stress and expense of traveling to another city. Center City has a wide range of hotels, from boutique options such as The Independent Hotel and Alexander Inn to larger chains like Marriott and Ritz-Carlton. For a list of hotels, as well as an event calendar, go to www.visitphilly.com.
Visit your “beach” friends
From Rehoboth to the Jersey Shore, there are scores of beach destinations close to Philadelphia. If you have friends with a summer share, this is the perfect time to plan a visit. Last weekend, I stayed with friends who are spending the summer in Rehoboth, and I had the most relaxing time. Many beach shares have room for an extra guest or two for the weekend. Ask first, buy food and clean up, and you may even get asked back.
Get wet and wild
If you don’t have access to a beach house, you can still enjoy some fun in the sun. Many Jersey beaches are an hour from Center City — perfect for a day trip. Hop in the car or New Jersey Transit and you’ll be in Margate, Atlantic City or Asbury Park in no time. If you’re not a fan of sand, remember that The Raven and The Nevermore Hotel in New Hope both have beautiful outdoor pools — and offer day passes.
Step off
For a slightly more active three-day weekend, try one of the many outdoor hiking paths and trails in and beyond the greater Philadelphia region (www.visitphilly.com/outdoor-activities/). Several weeks ago, my partner and I drove to Ricketts Glen State Park in Columbia County, which boasts an incredible trail featuring 21 breathtaking waterfalls. The hike is beautiful and challenging, and makes for an exhilarating weekend retreat. For more information on Ricketts Glen, visit www.rickettsglen.info.
Fly, fly away
If you’re determined to get far out of town for a long weekend, there are a couple different ways to go. You can plan a trip to Russian River, Calif.; Provincetown, Mass.; Saugatuck, Mich.; or another LGBT-friendly destination far in advance. Or you can pack your bags and head to the airport for an adventure.
Upon arriving at the ticketing counter of your preferred airline, determine the maximum you can pay for a roundtrip ticket. Tell the ticketing agent your return date and budget and ask for a list of flights that meets your criteria and leaves in the next two hours. Review the destinations, select one you’ve never visited, book your ticket and go! Once you book the flight, use a phone or computer to reserve accommodations. This “Amazing Race”-style adventure isn’t for everyone, but it may be the trip that sets this summer apart from all others.
I hope one of these options inspires you to take an unplanned long weekend before Labor Day. If you have other ideas for a summer trip, send them to [email protected]. ’Til next time, get offline and see what your community has to offer!