Yes, a two-week bucket-list journey to Europe, the South Pacific, or Patagonia sounds amazing … but sometimes, your schedule doesn’t allow for that kind of journey.
Maybe you’re trying to plan around your kids’ shorter Spring or Winter breaks, and you don’t want to spend a good chunk of your vacation time together on a plane. Or maybe you’re long overdue for a just-for-two getaway with your partner—but you can only afford a long weekend away before you’re needed back in the office.
Luckily, there are plenty of destinations in your “own backyard” that are worth exploring—here are three of our favorites to recommend to our clients:
1. Toronto, Canada:
Okay, Toronto isn’t “technically” a domestic destination—but since it’s right over the Canadian border, it’s a quick flight from many U.S. cities. We were so impressed with how much we were able to see and do in Toronto on our own week-long trip to the surrounding region; we think it makes for the perfect city break. Don’t miss exploring the different ethnic neighborhoods and markets, since nearly half of Toronto’s residents are foreign born. There’s Portugal Village, Koreatown, Little India, Little Italy (two, actually!), Greektown … and the list goes on!
If you have a couple of extra days to spend in the area, we recommend getting out of the city and exploring the nearby lakes region. Rent a peaceful cottage on Lake Muskoka and indulge in plenty of watersports—we work with a wonderful vetted supplier who can take care of everything for you. They’ll have floaties and watersports gear waiting for you on the lake, and your boat of choice anchored at your dock!
2. U.S. National Parks
A visit to one of the U.S.’s astounding national parks is a “classic” family vacation for a reason. It’s awe inspiring, educational, and—since there are more than 60 to choose from—an option that’s just a drive or short flight away! We think a national parks vacation is perfect for families with children of middle school age and up.
If you want to feel world’s away on your domestic trip, pick a park that’s out West, like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, or Arches—the landscapes you’ll find here are incredibly unique and “otherworldly.” Plus, when you visit out West, you can pair a parks trip with a stay at a family-friendly dude ranch. Many of these luxury ranches are all inclusive, so you can enjoy meals around a campfire and included activities like archery, horseback riding, and fishing.
3. The Hamptons
The Hamptons in New York is a storied vacation destination—but we love it because it makes for a fantastic getaway no matter the time of year. Of course, you can enjoy the white-sand beaches and boating during the summer, or visit during the offseason for a quieter escape. It may be chillier in the spring or fall, but you can fill your days with shopping at the quaint boutiques that line the main streets of picturesque villages like Sag Harbor or Montauk, dining at restaurants featuring farm-to-table produce, and simply enjoying a stroll to take in the unique historic architecture of the area—many of the clapboard cottages date back to the 18th century!
One perhaps surprising activity to indulge in when in the Hamptons? Visiting a winery. Long Island is gaining recognition as a distinguished wine region, and a handful of well-regarded wineries call the Hamptons home. Wineries like Wölffer Estate Vineyard are known for their delicious rosé and white varieties. Ready to embark on your own domestic escape? We would love to plan it for you—connect with Heirloom Journeys on a complimentary consultation call to get started.
