5 Weekend Getaways To Take This Summer

Remember when summer was three months of pure fun? Unfortunately, most of us lost that a long time ago, but we all still need a little break even if we can only get away for a long weekend. We’ve got five perfect summer weekend away ideas for you . . . pack that bag and take back a little chunk of your summertime. 

Blackberry Farm, TN

This idyllic “farm” – really a gorgeous southern resort – offers so many ways to relive the fun of your childhood with plenty of adult add-ons. Get out in the fresh air with a relaxing hike. Bike the country roads or get out on the water. You can even get a little dirty taking a class with the master gardener. Once you’ve relived a few childhood favorites be ready for the best wine, food, and spa treatments any adult could hope for. If you have time, book the Day in the Life of a Chef activity to get inside the kitchen of this fine dining mecca. 

Finger Lakes, NY

We adore NYC as much as any other city lover, but a long summer weekend is the time to recharge. The Finger Lakes area is located nearly 5 hours northwest of the city and really a whole world away from the hustle and bustle of the big apple. You have a plethora of historic b&b’s to choose from and activities to suit any interest. Visit Harriet Tubman’s home, grab an adult beverage at one of the dozens of wineries, distilleries, and breweries, and don’t miss beautiful Watkins Glen State Park. 

Willamette Valley, OR

This often overlooked wine region is an hour from Portland, but still much less crowded than its west coast Napa brethren. It is also less expensive and more laid back, making it perfect for a low key weekend getaway. Known for its pinot noirs, locally sourced foods, and outdoor activities is for the more active oenophile. Hike Silver Falls State Park for beautiful waterfalls and wilderness. Take your time over a special meal at Joel Palmer House. And, of course, enjoy the hundreds of wineries dotting the gorgeous landscape. 

San Juan Islands, WA

If you are looking to really get away and disconnect this is a great place to do it. This group of islands located between Seattle and Vancouver, BC offers outdoor activities, quaint seaside villages, and a dose of seclusion not found many other places. Be sure to visit Friday Harbor for shopping, dining, and a glimpse of what the area looked like in its territorial days. Summer is a great time for spotting the wild orcas that pass through the area following the salmon. The agricultural and culinary communities are alive and kicking and very excited to share the artisan products with you. Be sure to include a farm tour, wine tasting, or farmer’s market visit in your stay. 

Traverse City, MI

The Midwest is often overlooked as a relaxing weekend getaway, but Traverse City is a great example of why you are missing out. Nestled on Lake Michigan this is a land of picturesque lighthouses, maritime history, and culinary highlights. Get out on the shoreline at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to experience the powdery sand dunes and gorgeous trails. Keeping it water based book a sailing on a historic tall ship for a truly unique experience. The terroir of the region comes through in the dozens of wineries, microbreweries, and restaurants utilizing local ingredients. Before you depart be sure to grab a slice of cherry pie – this is the Cherry Capital of the World after all. 

Hopefully, this list inspires you to set aside a little time out of your busy schedule to get away, disconnect from your every day, and explore somewhere new. Follow us on Instagram for even more inspiration for exploring in and out of the kitchen.