Are you looking for getaway dates that are more than just going out to eat but at the same time don’t have to be overnight? Here’s a list of getaway dates, from places to take a walk, to small towns, museums, and even a craft brewery. We’re staying local in Massachusetts and Connecticut with one diversion up to Vermont.
Stonington Borough
Stonington Borough, or the center of Stonington, Connecticut is the quintessential New England seaside village. It simply checks all the boxes. Art galleries? Coastal location? Tasty cafes? Charming architecture? Lighthouse? YES to all. It’s a village that I always tell folks while visiting nearby Mystic to make sure to incorporate an afternoon in Stonington into your itinerary (or just skip Mystic altogether)
Hill Farmstead Brewery
This getaway date is the most secluded. Hill Farmstead is a world-class brewery located a world away from most everywhere else. Its Greensboro Bend address is still over an hour from most “nearby” Vermont locations but so worth the trip! They are known for their farmhouse beers along with a selection of other artisan beers including IPAs, pale ales, and porters. Most beers are named after owner Shaun Hill’s ancestors. At the brewery stay for a few pours, and hang out in the truly scenic yard.
Lowthorpe Meadows
These meadows in Norwich, Connecticut are a definite hidden gem as even many residents are not familiar with it. Lowthorpe Meadow has paths to meander to and fro. There are brooks, a pond, and plenty of vegetation and wildlife to gaze upon.
Washington, Connecticut
Tucked away in northwestern Connecticut, Washington is a delightful small town. Used as the inspiration for the television program, Gilmore Girls, the center of Washington (Washington Depot) has a few cafes, a restaurant, and a bookstore. There’s nothing like sipping a coffee outdoors and enjoying this small town.
Cape Cod Canal path
The Cape Cod Canal bike path lines both sides of the Cape Cod Canal. Take a stroll or a ride on two wheels to watch boats stream in and out of the canal. The few-mile level path is perfect for all abilities and can provide a respite before or after a meal in nearby Sandwich.
Altschul Preserve
The Altschul Preserve is a quiet parcel of land buried behind a residential neighborhood in Stamford, Connecticut. Although Stamford is the state’s second-largest city, you wouldn’t know it when you’re on a path here. Often on a visit here, you won’t see anyone else.
Devil’s Hopyard State Park
For such a diabolic placename, it looks more like a slice of heaven. Make sure to check out Chapman Falls which is close to the parking lot and is a serene waterfall that makes this state park stand out. It is located in East Haddam, Connecticut.
Mystic Seaport
This tourist destination attracts the hordes with good reason. The scenic seaside village museum includes authentic and recreated buildings. Duck into the cooperage, blacksmith shops, and in and out of boats such as the Charles W. Morgan.
Larz Anderson Auto Museum
Another museum, although one much smaller in size is the Larz Anderson Auto Museum located in the park of the same name in Brookline, Massachusetts. This collection is housed in an impressive building and is the perfect visit during an afternoon exploring the park.
Connecticut College Arboretum
The Connecticut College Arboretum in New London is perfect for a getaway date. Combine a stroll through the lovely menagerie of plants and flowers before heading out to eat on the Connecticut shoreline. Although pretty for a walk any time of year, the warmer months put on a show.
Veterans Memorial Park
This park and beach is located in Hyannis, Massachusetts, and also contains a memorial to John F. Kennedy who summered in the seaside town. The park is a break from busy downtown Hyannis or the crowded Cape beaches in this area. There’s a lawn, a beach, a playground, and of course the ocean to splash around in.
Independence Park
To the north of Boston, there are many great spots for a getaway date. One of my favorites for relaxing on a gorgeous day at any time of the year is Independence Park in Beverly. Watch the boats go by while sitting on a bench, picnic in the grass, or head to the small strip of beach if you wish. Further up the road, Dane Street Beach is another picturesque spot. Either way, you’ll be enjoying the sea view.
South Natick Falls
The congested Metrowest of Boston has done a nice job preserving land for posterity. South Natick has a small waterfall as the Charles River makes its way through the suburban town en route to Boston Harbor. Enjoy a bench seat or a picnic lunch in view of the falls.
Charles River Esplanade
If you’re looking to explore the Charles River further there are plenty of excellent options. In Boston, there’s the Charles River Esplanade which is teeming with bikers, walkers, and joggers enjoying the riverside views. Across the river is Memorial Drive in Cambridge which offers a similar opportunity. Upriver a bit in towns such as Newton, Waltham, Watertown, and the Boston neighborhood of Brighton also provide river walks making it one network of river trails. There are free lots in any of these towns and all offer splendid views. The further upriver, the less trafficky the path is.
Your Backyard
Sometimes leaving the confines of you’re own home isn’t in the cards. And that’s okay. A getaway date can easily be had right (literally) in your backyard. A firepit or a picnic, stargazing or grilling, although you’re not really “getting away” these can be getaway dates of their own kind. It’s making something special out of what is in your backyard.
Do you have getaway dates that you think others should check out? Feel free to leave them in the comments!
