6 Serene Towns in the Mid-Atlantic for a Weekend Retreat
The Mid-Atlantic region of the United States sits on the overlap between the Northeastern and Southeastern states, including Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. The region is well known as the home of popular destinations such as New York City, but the bright city lights are not the only thing that wows visitors. The Mid-Atlantic explodes with serene small towns featuring tranquil countrysides, soaring heights and mountain views, and idyllic boardwalks along the seashore. Whether travelers are in search of cozy destinations with close proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, one of the Great Lakes, or the Atlantic Coastline, the small towns of the Mid-Atlantic do not disappoint.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May sits on the southern edge of the Cape May Peninsula on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. The area is most well known for its beaches, with popular summer spots for kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing, including The Cove and Steger Beach. The Washington Street Mall is the place to be, with an abundance of local shops and spots to eat, such as Art Block Cafe and Beach Bums. Victorian-era buildings line the town's streets, like the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate which travelers may tour through with a ride on the Trolley Tour. Several buildings are also currently hotels, such as the 1879 Virginia Hotel and the 1907 Georgian revival mansion, Peter Shields Inn. The tour also stops by the Cape May Lighthouse, standing since 1859, where travelers may wander up the 199 steps and take in a panoramic view of the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Rehoboth Beach is another Atlantic Coast town and is home to its namesake beach, which happens to be Delaware's most popular beach. The sandy shores are home to a 1 mile-long boardwalk, featuring carnival-themed games and a quirky atmosphere. If the boardwalk is not nostalgic enough, families may visit Funland, which opens in May and is chock full of midway games, amusement rides, and an arcade, a place where memories are ready to be made. The Bellmoor Inn & Spa is the ideal place to escape after a long day of fun in the sun, as is the Boardwalk Plaza Hotel. While surfing, kayaking, and canoeing on the water are exciting activities, a more laid-back vacation should include a trip to Clear Space Theatre Company, a performance arts theatre featuring shows such as "Grease," "Rent," and "Chicago."
Havre de Grace, Maryland
Havre de Grace is an overwhelmingly charming small town in Maryland, situated at the intersection of Chesapeake Bay and the Susquehanna River. The town's history dates back to the pre-Civil War era and is readily discoverable with an excursion to the Concord Point Lighthouse and Keeper’s House Museum, the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum, or the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum. A stay at the Spencer-Silver Mansion, an 1896 Victorian mansion, promises great insight into the past, carefully decorated with period pieces.
There are also several self-guided and guided walking tours: Concord Point Lighthouse Tours, the City “Tree Walk” Tour, and Havre de Haunts Tours, or even sailing tours along the Chesapeake Bay. While its historical roots run deep, the town is also chock full of natural beauty. Travelers may explore the waterfront Concord Point Park, picnic at David Craig Park, and partake in public fishing at Frank J. Hutchins Memorial Park.
New Hope, Pennsylvania
New Hope, Pennsylvania, sits adjacent to the Delaware River, so it is no surprise that its scenery is what often draws in visitors. However, its unique attractions, history, and abundance of things to do make it somewhere worth staying. A tour with the New Hope Historical Society transports visitors back in time, traversing through spots such as the 1784 Parry Mansion, the 20th-century Bucks County Playhouse, and more. There are also several historic and modern places to stay: the 1870 Wedgwood Inn, Carriage House of New Hope, and the Pineapple Hill Inn Bed & Breakfast. Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve is a nature enthusiast's dream, home to a botanical garden and museum dedicated to native plants. The Delaware Canal State Park perfectly marries the town's beauty and history, featuring an exploratory museum, a towpath, and, of course, the Delaware Canal.
Aurora, New York
Aurora is in the Finger Lakes region of New York State, a hidden gem along the shores of Cayuga Lake. Several locations in town earn a spot on the National Register of Historic Places, including Aurora Village-Wells College Historic District and the Aurora Steam Grist Mill. Weary travelers may find an escape with the Inns of Aurora, which are a collection of restored homes that offer a luxurious weekend stay in town, while Gracious Guest House is also a charming place to visit. The 1858 E. B. Morgan House is a wonderfully charmed place to stay, restored by the Inns of Aurora into a lavish destination that fuses modernity with history. For an especially unique visit, travelers must stop by the Morgan Opera House, which features live performances throughout the year. For a breath of fresh air, wander Long Point State Park and marvel at the beauty that is Cayuga Lake.
Allentown, New Jersey
Within the greenbelt and surrounded by rolling hills of farmland, Allentown, New Jersey, is both a picturesque and historic destination. Over 225 homes earn a place on historic registers, while the rustic Old Mill shares a glimpse into the past, and local parks such as Heritage Park offer an escape from city life. The community runs several activities and events throughout the year, promising an especially memorable visit, like the Fall Festival, Witches Night Out, Spring Stroll, Winter Wonderland, Faerie Festival, and Super Heros Day. Allentown is also the halfway point between New York City and Atlantic City, making it the ideal relaxing stop on a road trip between the two destinations. For an extended stay, there are several hotels just outside of town, including the Hampton Inn and Hilton Garden Inn.
Enjoy a Serene Retreat in the Mid-Atlantic!
Waterfront views, walks along the shoreline, and an abundance of natural beauty and unique history make these serene Mid-Atlantic towns worth a visit. Though local events and culture feature an unmatched vibrancy, each town maintains a tranquil essence, offering a dreamy escape from the surrounding bustling cities. From sailing tours on the Chesapeake Bay in Havre de Grace to exploring the boardwalk of Rehoboth Beach or wandering through the Victorian-era buildings of Cape May, the Mid-Atlantic overflows with gorgeous towns awaiting discovery for your next weekend retreat.
