My Instagram DMs and text have been blowing up lately with friends and family asking of places I recommend to travel too. No one wants to get on a plane but everybody wants to go on vacation... so the question is where do we go that’s driveable? Living in New Jersey/New York my entire life, I have visited so many small towns and big cities nearby! So many places where you can go for a weekend or a week without having to travel to far.From Maine to Virginia to Delaware to Vermont, I got some great cities to recommend. 

Of course before you plan anything, make sure you read the CDC‘s guidelines on each states quarantine rules. Luckily a lot of the northeast states aren’t requiring quarantining if you live in New York or New Jersey! So just double check before you book anything! Other states are just requiring a negative test after 72 days of arriving but always check the states cdc rules.

1. Portland, Maine

I have been to this city multiple times and it is one of my top favorites. Such a cute small city on the water. There’s so much to do from visiting small islands on a ferry to tasting all the breweries to going hiking nearby, Portland has something for everyone. You can head up to Acadia National Park which is 9 hours from NYC or hike some of their state parks such as Grafton Notch State Park Make sure you check out Cape Elizabeth lighthouse and of course Allagash Brewery.

2. Burlington, Vermont

Another city that my hubby and I have visited a few times before. It’s a bit farther about six hours from New York City but it is worth the drive because you get to drive through the Adirondacks in New York and then through all the mountains in Vermont. If you love Ben & Jerry’s then make sure you stop at the Ben & Jerry’s factory nearby! Love beer? Make sure you check out Magic Hat Brewery. You can swim, kayak, and canoe Lake Champlain. There is tons of hiking and outdoor activities nearby as well!

3. Alexandria, Virginia

One of my top favorite places to visit and one I always recommend, this town is only 25 min from DC! The cobble stone streets are gorgeous and it’s just a lively and beautiful city. It will make you forget that you are in the DC area because it has such a small town vibe. Tons of shopping and restaurants on along King Street as well as a waterfront with gorgeous views! 

4. Shenandoah National Park

The closest national park to New Jersey is located in Virginia and it’s about six hours away! You can do everything from hiking to fishing to kayaking here. Talk about social distancing! Don’t wanna spend a lot of time here? Split the time between Shenandoah and DC! Totally doable in 3-4 days

5. Laconia, New Hampshire

Hubby and I camped here a few years ago and LOVED IT! This is more for outdoorsy people since you’re surrounded by the White mountain national forest and Lake Winnepesaukee. So much hiking here and fun outdoor activities! You can even take a mountain train up to the top of Mount Washington. You are also super close to Maine so take a day trip over to Sebago Lake or even Portland!

6. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Another gorgeous little town right near the water. Tons of shopping and eating to do nearby and you are so close to all the main attractions! You can visit all the lighthouses or stop at Hampton Beach which is one of my hubby and I favorite! You’re so close to Maine beaches as well so if your willing to drive a little more north, make sure you check out Ogunquit! Want some of the best lobster rolls in Maine? Make sure you stop at Bobs Clam Hut in Kittery.

7. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

I truly adore Cape Cod. If you’re looking for a beach town, than this is the place to be. You’ve got gorgeous beaches, lighthouses, wineries, and great food! You can drive up to Provincetown and walk the lively streets or you can visit Cape Cod National Seashore! If you have a lot of time there, you can hop on a ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard! There is so much to do in the Cape.

8. Newport, Rhode Island

I came a few times growing up and the hubby and I always stop here when we are driving down from the New England area. This has to be one of my favorite beach towns! The town is gorgeous with tons of food all the shopping! You can walk the Cliff walk which is a gorgeous walk along the coastal cliff and check out the beautiful mansions such as the Rosecliff.

9. Montauk, New York

Ugh I can’t say enough about this place. We just came back from there and to say we are sad is an understatement. Montauk is such a lively beach town with gorgeous restaurants and beautiful beaches. I will tell you it is super expensive but totally worth it. You can go to lighthouse, bike, take surfing lessons, and even drive into the local Hampton Towns to shop! If you do go make sure you check out Duryeas, The Crows Nest, and of course the Ditch Witch at Ditch Plains!

10. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

I get such Outer Banks vibes in this beach town. Who would’ve known that Delaware has such nice beaches with quaint towns. Totally recommend coming here and even to it local beaches like Bethany Beach and Dewey Beach. They have such restaurants and fun things to do on the beach. Want beer? Check out Dogfish Head brewery! Don’t mind driving a little farther? Drive down to Ocean City, Maryland! 

I honestly could just go on and on about places on the north east to visit haha! I’ve truly got to know this area so well from it’s most popular towns to its it more secluded ones. Don’t be afraid to ask if you need any recommendations! I’ve got tons and tons of restaurants, Airbnb’s, hotels, hikes, and much more saved from all these areas! Hope this helps as you try to find something Covid Friendly and you can get back out to exploring!