Best Northeastern Fall Weekend Getaways

As summer turns into fall, images of brilliant foliage and festivals with apples, cider and pumpkins as the main attractions come to mind. Traveling in the fall is less stressful and more pleasant as the crowd thins and the weather cools. Here are some destinations to consider for a fall vacation in the northeast.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Many people bypass Philadelphia for more exciting venues in New York City or the casinos and seashores of New Jersey. Thanks to its previous mayor, now Governor of Pennsylvania Ed Rendell, Philadelphia has undergone a renaissance. The city is now more vibrant and exciting, much cleaner and safer. From Independence Hall to the Liberty Bell to The Betsy Ross House, there is much history to entertain you. Twenty miles northwest of the city is Valley Forge National Historical Park, where General Washington and his soldiers encamped and built huts in the winter of 1777. The park is not only packed with history, it is also beautiful to drive around, especially in the fall. Nearby King of Prussia Mall is an upscale mall that will satisfy any serious shopper.

Another lovely drive around the city is the museum area on East River Drive. Further up, the road turns into Kelly Drive and later Lincoln Road, and you will be in the town of Chestnut Hill. In the vicinity are entrances to Wissahickon Valley, declared a National Natural Landmark in 1966. This protection has kept the valley in its scenic natural state. It has over 50 miles of trails for hiking, biking, running and horseback riding. Imagine that in a big city like Philadelphia!

As for lodgings, you can stay in one of the many hotels right in Center City. If you worry about parking, hotels near the airport, across the river on the Jersey side, or in King of Prussia, near Valley Forge National Park, are all good choices.

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