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If travel is on your mind but you’re not a fan of dense, congested, large cities with correspondingly high prices, it’s worth looking outside iconic hotspots to oft-overlooked nearby destinations.
Quaint neighboring towns lie near these big cities, which conveniently have well-connected airports. These gems are short on hype and rich in what we all want: slower-paced, locally driven authenticity and an abundance of activities with competitive price points — a winning combination.
Rather than facing the urban jungle with noise and crowds, enjoy the restorative charms of small-town life — with an opportunity to hop into the big city if desired.
Leesburg, Virginia
Just 40 miles west of Washington, D.C., and 15 miles from Dulles International Airport, this gem whisks you into a historic setting with narrow streets, cobblestone sidewalks and charming shops. The seat of Loudoun County since its inception in 1757, Leesburg exudes slow-and-easy-going energy with a strong splash of hip and cool.
As you plan your visit, note that boutique Hotel Burg on King Street opens this summer with 39 guest suites and a speakeasy. If country charm is more your speed, book at Stone Gables, a bed-and-breakfast just outside of town oozing with lodge vibes.
Not bashful about its caffeine obsession, The Leesburg Coffee Corridor has more than eight coffee shops and espresso bars within blocks of each other. There’s no shortage of bars — Night Shift is in a loft on King Street and The Docket occupies an old carriage house. Catch the “who’s who of Loudoun” at Tuscarora Mill, an upscale restaurant in a converted mill, or dine at Lightfoot Restaurant in a grand old bank.
Take an art or history tour and enjoy the outdoors by hiking or biking on Washington & Old Dominion Railroad Regional Park, just one of many trails in the area.
Bastrop, Texas
This laid-back, comfortable town of about 10,000 people is in the southeastern section of Texas Hill Country and Lost Pines. It’s an easy 34 miles from Austin and 25 miles from the airport.
The area has an abundance of sweet short-stay rentals, and on Lake Bastrop, there are cool throw-back Airstreams and luxe yurts at GLAT Austin. The big outdoors awaits at Bastrop State Park with a playground and fabulous scenic biking and hiking trails with overlooks and natural landmarks. Experience the area’s exceptional birding or take the six-mile El Camino Real Paddling Trail on the Colorado River.
In town, drop by the museum and visitor center to orient yourself, then amble through the picturesque footprint, stopping at cute shops and bookstores before experiencing a classic moonshine flight at Copper Shot Distillery. Found Fine Art offers inspirational art and the historic opera house has excellent live acts, plays and music.
Boost your energy at CAFF Coffee + Kitchen or Sunshine Sister in a playfully decorated trailer. When hunger strikes, take a seat at Old Town Restaurant & Bar, Gracie’s (Grace Miller), Store House Market & Eatery or Piney-Creek Chop House, a fine dining establishment.
St. Charles, Illinois
On the Fox River, less than an hour from Chicago, lies this sweet, lively town with arts, culture, bars, restaurants and unique boutique shops.
Nature is front-and-center, with a bevy of choices for water activities including fishing, kayaking and a scenic Paddlewheel Riverboat cruise. The area has a lovely riverwalk, parks and trails. The 39-mile Fox River Trail is great for biking or hiking. In town, it’s easy to explore by foot or bike using the ample infrastructure connecting the town. Do a self-guided mural tour around town and browse shops. Catch music performances at Arcada Theatre and scan the weekly calendar of live music for other options.
Foodies won’t be disappointed with Vintage 53, an oenophile favorite, McNally’s Irish Pub, Alter Brewing + Kitchen and Moto Imōto for sushi. Get your jolt at Coroco Coffee or Maple Leaf Roasters, and when the feeling hits, grab an ice cream at Kimmers Ice Cream.
Find your home away from home at the 53-room historic Hotel Baker on the river, established in 1928. Hampton Inn & Suites is just outside the historic footprint, offering great setups for families with adjoining rooms, free breakfast and an indoor pool.
Port Jefferson, Long Island New York
Train fanatics will love that “Port Jeff,” nestled on the North Shore, is connected by rail to Manhattan and JFK Airport and by ferry to New England. The hilly, intimate seafront town center is walkable, making for beautiful days of strolling and drinking in stunning harbor views.
Indulge with a stay at the beautiful Danfords Hotel & Marina on the water with plush rooms, elevated dining and a full-service spa — or opt for homespun cozy vibes at Ransome Inn, a bed-and-breakfast in an 1886 Cape Cod home.
Shop-’til-you-drop on East Main Street and beyond, making sure to stop at Lavender Fields, Pindar Wine Shop and Amazing Olive, with award-winning olive oil. Visit the farmers market (Sunday) and take the family — and dog — to the local beach or one of the many others nearby. Embrace the elements at The Rinx outdoor ice skating rink and watch a show at Theatre Three, a storied venue since 1969.
Dine in style at Danford’s newest venue, The Grille at Waterview, with views of the Long Island Sound, or, for classic American comfort food, try Billie’s 1890 Saloon. Tuck into modern Indian fare and exotic cocktails at SāGhar, with lovely views from the upper level.
Have you visited any of the above? Where are you next going on vacation? Let us know in the comments below.
