Where to stay: Crystal River is filled with unique and colorful Airbnbs. A few good options include this three-bedroom cottage for the whole family, a waterfront spot with a private dock, and a fun escape with a private pool.
.jpg)
Courtesy Inn at Perry Cabin
St. Michaels, Maryland
Just a few hours from New York City, Baltimore, and Washington, DC, this adorable Maryland town comes alive in the summer (and is a personal favorite town of mine for a short weekend trip outside of the big city). It’s home to some very interesting history (Frederick Douglass lived here for a few years), plenty of adorable shops, some great restaurants, and beautiful views of the Chesapeake Bay. The quaint downtown area is particularly worth spending a few hours wandering around, and thanks to the small size of the whole neighborhood, you can explore the entire place in a weekend. Head to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum for some more history of the region, or simply pop in and out of the shops on Talbot Street. This stretch on Maryland’s eastern shore feels like a quintessential East Coast summer town.
Where to stay: The Inn at Perry Cabin is a luxury resort with great views of the water, comfortable accommodations, and a fine-dining restaurant, Stars. It’s also a six-time Readers’ Choice Award winner.
Four Seasons
Santa Fe, New Mexico
You may not imagine that the prime time to visit the Southwest is summer, but in fact, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a perfect destination to enjoy during the warmer months. This desert town in northern New Mexico offers plentiful views of the surrounding landscape—and some great hiking and exploring opportunities as well. It’s an artist’s haven, especially during the warmer months, thanks to the lineup of cultural events, art markets, festivals, and more. The warm days and cooler evenings make for a comfortable trip, and the city’s architecture, cuisine, and art let you delve into the area’s diverse background. Art lovers will get a kick out of walking along Canyon Road, a dense area of galleries and artists’ studios, while foodies will love hitting the farmers’ market.