3 Spring Break Trip Ideas Within A Three-Hour Drive Of New York City
Summer is the peak travel season in most parts of the world, but spring—with its blissfully mild weather, sights of nature coming back to life, and more accessible accommodations and attractions—is an equally desirable time to plan a vacation.
If you happen to be a New Yorker, you've got options galore—especially if you prefer the ease of hopping into a car instead of the hassle of boarding a plane. With that in mind, here are three destinations for memorable spring break vacations. Even better? All of the picks are under a three-hour drive from Manhattan.
The striking exterior of Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
If you've never considered a leisure trip to New Haven, what are you waiting for? There's plenty for history and culture buffs to explore, from Amistad Memorial, a three-sided bronze statue dedicated to the 1839 Amistad Revolt and its leader Sengbe Pieh, to the Yale University Art Gallery, which is free and open to the public. And in case you don't know by now, Connecticut's third largest city also boasts a mouthwatering pizza scene. (Fun fact: last May, U.S. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro declared New Haven the Pizza Capital of the U.S. in a statement read into the Congressional Record.) You'll find the trinity of the city's legendary coal-fired and thin-crust pies at Sally's, Frank Pepe, and Modern.
As for where to stay, it's tough to top Hotel Marcel New Haven, Tapestry Collection by Hilton. For starters: it's an archectural marvel. The hotel takes up residence in a commanding 1968 concrete structure envisioned by Marcel Breuer overlooking the Long Island Sound—and an Ikea, too, for your home shopping needs. Inside, the 165 rooms and suites, along with the common spaces, channel mid-century vibes with their clean and pared-back color palette, furnishings, and meticulously-preseved original details such as granite tiles and wood paneling. Because Hotel Marcel is Leed Platinum-certified, runs on renewable energy, and is Passive House-certified, you'll feel even better about booking a room here.
Exterior of Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa
Most tourists flock to this iconic Jersey Shore town when the sun is scorching, but now is an underrated time to plan a trip. Not only will you get ahead of the crushing crowds, Atlantic City's boardwalk (also the country's oldest and longest) and beaches will feel like they're all your own.
Though there are plenty of places to eat along the boardwalk, venture off the beaten path to discover the city's lesser-known spots, like Bar32 Chocolate—New Jersey's only bean-to-bar chocolate shop by Nicole Callazzo—and neighboring Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall, a Monopoly-themed indoor-outdoor venue with 40 taps and casual fare.
Though not new, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa—which opened in 2023—feels fresh as ever thanks to a sweeping $55 million renovation including the rebranding of The Water Club to MGM Tower and a crisp revamp of its 757 guest rooms and suites. What's remained the same is Borgata's enticing restaurant roster—Old Homestead Steak House is by far and away the best place for quality chops in town—54,000-square-foot wellness haven Spa Toccare, and exciting live entertainment (Def Leppard, Jim Gaffigan, and The Black Keys are scheduled to perform this year.)
One of Shandaken Inn's two-bedroom cottages
If you need to really get off the grid, look no further than Shandaken. This rural town tucked away in the heart of The Catksills Mountains is comprised of 12 hamlets—including Phoenica, where you'll find the beloved Phoenicia Diner—and is a hushed hideaway for outdoor pursuits, from hiking Giant Ledge to trout fishing at Esopus Creek.
After a long day out, retire to one of Shandaken Inn's three two-bedroom cottages—whose names take inspiration from the area's historic resorts and camps (Pines, Fallsview, Tamarack). These accommodations boast cozy residential vibes with their kitchenettes, fireplaces, Old Hickory furnture, and textured John Rosselli wallcoverings. Included in your stay is complimentary daily breakfast in The Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar, which is also serves a rustic dinner menu of smoked trout chowder, whey braised rabbit, and spinach ricotta dumplings.
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Forbes
2 days ago
- Forbes
From Sin City To Serenity: How Caesars Is Redefining The Las Vegas Girls Trip
Sin City has undergone a transformation in recent years, as more visitors to the Nevada hotspot seek ... More wellness and relaxation. getty Perhaps no place in the world has been more synonymous with bad behavior, lust, and let's face it, fun than Las Vegas, Nevada. From bachelorette parties and milestone birthdays to spontaneous getaways with friends, there's a reason the phrase 'girls trip' often conjures images of cocktails by the pool and glittery nights out on the Strip. But while the city's lights still beckon late into the night, there's a new glow-up underway—one that trades excess for intention and puts wellness squarely at the center of the Vegas experience—and Caesars Entertainment is helping lead the charge. 'There is no city like Las Vegas,' says Alyssa Mendes, General Manager of Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace and Vice President of Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace. 'And it is our job to cater to the interests of each demographic.' That includes the female travelers who have long been the backbone of Vegas tourism, those coming to Sin City in search of connection, celebration, and increasingly, restoration. 'Guests from around the world visit our Las Vegas resorts for many different occasions—from birthdays and bachelorette parties to girls getaways,' Mendes says. 'We provide visitors with so many options for experiences across eight resorts to cater to their trips. For me, nothing says a girls trip like a trip to the spa!' Wellness travel, once considered niche, is now a full-fledged movement. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the wellness tourism market grew to $651 billion in 2022 and continues to outpace general tourism growth globally. In Las Vegas, that trend is taking shape in uniquely Vegas ways—where rejuvenation meets luxury and world-class amenities are seamlessly woven into the itinerary alongside residencies, roulette, and rooftop dining. 'The itinerary for girls trips in Las Vegas continues to evolve, just like the city,' Mendes explains. 'Some of our guests enjoy going out to dayclubs, nightclubs, bars and lounges. Others are looking for a more laidback trip that focuses on rest and relaxation, especially as wellness travel continues to trend upward.' Recognizing this shift, Caesars has placed renewed emphasis on its spa and wellness offerings. Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace has long been a standout, but new programming is making it even more appealing to friend groups looking to unwind together. The company recently introduced its Spa Squad program, a group-friendly experience designed for wellness-minded travelers who want their spa day to feel like an elevated social event. 'Each of Caesars Entertainment's six spas offers different experiences for groups to unwind,' says Mendes. 'At Qua Baths & Spa at Caesars Palace, groups of eight or more people can book this program for a VIP relaxation experience featuring a massage or facial, assorted refreshments, a special gift, and three hours of spa facility access that includes the Roman Baths, steam room, sauna and Arctic Ice Room.' Caesars is adapting to increased interest in wellness travel with new offerings, like its ... More recently-launched Spa Squad program at Qua Baths & Spas. Courtesy of Caesars Entertainment Unlike many health and wellbeing-focused destinations these days, though, at Caesars, wellness doesn't mean deprivation. It's less about kale smoothies and more about cultivating joy in every form, including by way of some of Vegas's more classic offerings. That ethos is reflected in the brand's carefully curated lineup of food and beverage offerings, which blend culinary excellence with a dash of girl-power glamour. 'At Caesars Entertainment, we are grateful to work with many incredible culinary partners, including three amazing women—Giada De Laurentiis, Lisa Vanderpump and Martha Stewart,' says Mendes. 'Their restaurants and lounges are perfect for brunch, dinner, or drinks with the girls.' Whether it's Giada's California-Italian coastal cuisine, Vanderpump's Parisian garden-party aesthetic, or Stewart's elevated Americana, each space is designed for meaningful moments (and photo-worthy backdrops). Caesars knows that in the era of wellness tourism, ambiance matters just as much as the menu. And of course, no trip to Las Vegas would be complete without a little entertainment. Fortunately, Caesars has that covered too. 'Outside of our food and beverage offerings, Shania Twain's recent residency at PH Live at Planet Hollywood was a huge attraction for girls trips,' Mendes notes. 'Who doesn't want to sing 'Man! I Feel Like a Woman' with their girl gang?' It's a sentiment that captures the heart of what the modern girls trip has become—less about escape and more about coming home to yourself, with your closest friends by your side. The new Las Vegas itinerary is part spa, part singalong, and all about connection. A wellness-focused girls trip to Vegas is not without some of the city's best known indulgences, ... More including delicious meals at restaurants like The Bedford by Martha Stewart. Courtesy of Caesars Entertainment This new chapter for Caesars comes amid a broader rebranding effort across the city. Long associated with the tagline 'What Happens Here, Stays Here,' Vegas has recently introduced a new slogan—'Vegas: You Just Have to Be Here'—reflecting a more expansive, experience-driven vision of the city. 'Las Vegas is the city of endless possibility, and that starts at our resorts,' Mendes says. 'Caesars Entertainment has a rich history of firsts on the Las Vegas Strip. 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'There's a reason we've remained at the heart of the Strip for so long,' Mendes says. 'We evolve with our guests. Right now, they're asking for more ways to reconnect, recharge, and celebrate themselves. And what better place to do all three than in the desert, surrounded by friends, good food, world-class music—and a fluffy robe?'
USA Today
2 days ago
- USA Today
10 things to do in Santa Ynez Valley that don't involve wine
Horseback riding at the Alisal Guest Ranch is one of the best non-wine things to do in the Santa Ynez Valley – Photo courtesy of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Tucked between the Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains in Santa Barbara County, the Santa Ynez Valley is often synonymous with wine, thanks to nearly 300 wineries and tasting rooms (and a little movie called "Sideways"). But there's far more to the region than pinot noir and chardonnay. Just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles (or 45 minutes from Santa Barbara), this sun-drenched stretch of rolling hills, horse ranches, cowboy towns, and one Danish village is full of charm, wide-open skies, and plenty of things to do that don't involve vino. If you're like me, you might need a break from the tasting rooms; if you're like my friends, you have kids in tow who need to be entertained. It's good to have some balance. Here are 10 ways to spend the day around the Santa Ynez Valley without wine, including family-friendly activities, restaurants, and museums in Solvang, Los Olivos, Buellton, and surrounding areas. Plus, we offer some hotel recommendations, which you'll need, whether you're drinking wine or not. Advertisement Windmills, Danish pastries, and half-timbered architecture give Solvang its fairy-tale vibe. Wander Mission Drive through the center of town for charming boutiques, clog shops, and old-world bakeries (my favorite for Danish is Mortensen's Bakery). Duck into one of the museums — from the Hans Christian Andersen Museum to the Solvang Motorcycle Museum — or grab an abelskiver before grabbing a photo beneath the windmill in the center of town. Go full cowboy in Santa Ynez The tiny town of Santa Ynez feels like a sepia-toned postcard. Think frontier-style storefronts, dusty wooden boardwalks, and hitching posts with actual horses. But the vibe is elevated with art galleries, coffee bars, and excellent restaurants. At KJ Murphy's Custom Hatter & Mercantile, get a custom-made hat that's shaped to fit your head and styled just for you. Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Historical Museum to explore the Old West and the area's rich ranching history. Every June, Old Santa Ynez Days features parties, parades, and a rodeo. Learn about the native people and lands This museum and cultural center preserves the rich history and vibrant culture of the Chumash people – Photo courtesy of Mimi Fuenzalida / Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center At the Santa Ynez Chumash Museum and Cultural Center, go back in time before the ranchers arrived. The museum and cultural center honors the 8,000‑year legacy of the Chumash people. Designed to echo traditional tule 'ap, the LEED-certified building weaves immersive galleries, native gardens, and community‑inspired storytelling into a soulful, thought‑provoking visit. Hit the spa Pampering is part of the valley pace. Find massage services, facials, and relaxing vibes at the Lavender Barn at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern in Los Olivos. The spa at Chumash Casino Resort offers luxe treatments and private cabanas, while small boutique hotels like The Genevieve have more intimate experiences. Think eucalyptus steam, lavender oils, and vineyard views — without the vino. OstrichLand USA is a quirky, fun, and definitely unforgettable experience in the Santa Ynez Valley. Feed ostriches and emus, learn about the giant birds, and snap pics as they strut like runway models with feathers to match. It's part roadside attraction, part educational stop, and an easy hit with kids and grown-ups alike. For more animal fun, visit the farm at Vega Vineyard and Farm, where kids can feed chickens, goats, and more. Hike the trails The rolling hills around Santa Ynez Valley are filled with trails and views for days – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla Framed by mountains and rolling hills, there's no shortage of hikes around Santa Ynez Valley, from easy walking paths to challenging hikes surrounded by wildflowers and views as far as the ocean. The in-and-out Lake Cachuma Sweetwater Trail offers stunning lakeside vistas, and the easy hike at Nojoqui Falls Park is always a popular choice. You'll find more rigorous trails with wow-worthy views along Gaviota Peak and Grass Mountain. Advertisement At Vino Vaqueros, saddle up for a guided ride through rolling hills, shady oaks, and golden meadows. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned rider, the views and pace are pure California calm. Rides are private and tailored — just you, the horse, and the Santa Ynez sun. If you do feel like sipping wine, rides come with two complimentary tastes after the trek (not during). Guests of the Alisal Guest Ranch can also enjoy horseback riding on the property. Take a hot air balloon ride Sky's the Limit Ballooning offers rides above vineyards, ranches, and coastal mountains around the valley. The two-hour experience (one hour in the air) is peaceful, magical, and a breathtaking way to see the landscape unfold. Keep your eyes peeled for foxes, deer, and other wildlife below. If you stay at the Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort in Solvang, the members-only Ranch Course is a premier setting with ancient oaks lining the fairways and mountains framing every hole. La Purisima Golf Course, located in nearby Lompoc, is a local favorite, boasting rolling terrain and a peaceful, uncrowded feel that's perfect for both casual and serious golfers. Eat like a local Bell's in Los Alamos offers some of the best food in the Santa Ynez Valley – Photo courtesy of Carter Hiyama Each town in the Santa Ynez Valley has its unique character and charm, and the restaurant scene follows suit. A few highlights include Michelin-worthy meals at Coast Range in Solvang, notable Bell's in Los Alamos, and sibling Bar Le Cote in Los Olivos. The latter has an incredible happy hour. A platter of freshly shucked oysters and killer fries are my go-to. Family-friendly stalwarts include Full of Life Foods, where pizza reigns supreme (but don't miss the seasonal menu items). For breakfast pastries, stellar sandwiches, and grab-and-go delights, get to Bob's Well Bread in Los Alamos and Ballard early. Things sell out fast! Seasonal salads, handmade pastas, and pizza are hallmarks of S.Y. Kitchen – Photo courtesy of Visit the Santa Ynez Valley Dinner at Hitching Post 2 in Buellton features Santa Maria-style steaks, hearty side dishes, and a down-home crowd; it's also the most "Sideways" famous restaurant in the valley. S.Y. Kitchen in Santa Ynez offers a unique blend of farmhouse vibes and handmade Italian specialties, including wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads. Advertisement Where to stay in Santa Ynez Valley A stay at The Inn at Mattei's Tavern is a perfect Santa Ynez Valley getaway – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla The Inn at Mattei's Tavern, Auberge Resorts Collection: This historic 1886 stagecoach-turned-luxury retreat in Los Olivos boasts a laid-back, elegant country-chic vibe. The Inn at Matttei's Tavern features reimagined cottages and studios with patios, spa, poolside cabanas, fire pits throughout the property, and a fantastic restaurant and bar. Don't miss experiences like a watercolor class under the water tower, making hats and olive oil, and the weekly winemakers' event at the bar, which brings locals and guests together for a lively happy hour. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort: Nestled on 10,500 acres in the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, Alisal Ranch blends the Old West with modern-luxe comfort. Think cozy cottages with fireplaces, a lake for fishing, tennis, plus 50 miles of horseback trails. Nightly rates include breakfast and dinner at any of the three all-day restaurants. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Fess Parker Wine Country Inn: A staple in the heart of Los Olivos, the Fess Parker Wine Country Inn features 19 boutique-style rooms, a restaurant, a garden with firepits, and a heated pool. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Skyview Hotel is full of vibes in Los Alamos – Photo courtesy of Lesley Balla Skyview Los Alamos: You'll see the big, yellow sign from Highway 101 beckoning like a retro roadside motel, but the Skyview Hotel is a boutique stay with desert-cool vibes, a refreshing pool, and starlit patios. Meeting fellow guests around the firepits is part of the charm. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Hotel Ynez: A stay at Hotel Ynez is an intimate Solvang retreat featuring firepits, a heated pool, and ample outdoor lounging space. The rooms have clean lines and modern touches. When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Santa Ynez Valley Marriott: This Marriott in Buellton offers easy access off Highway 101, ample rooms for groups, and is a popular choice for families traveling through the area.
Miami Herald
6 days ago
- Miami Herald
Ivanka Trump strikes a pose in Venice ahead of Jeff Bezos' wedding: ‘Con amore'
Like a good neighbor, Ivanka Trump is there. Donald Trump's oldest daughter has arrived for Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez's wedding in Venice, Italy. Trump lives close to the bride and groom to be in Indian Creek Village, aka 'Billionaire Bunker' in Miami Beach, with her husband Jared Kushner and three kids. Apparently, the relationship is beyond the borrowing sugar phase. In an Instagram post taken in the floating city, Trump shared snaps of herself in a flowery, lacy minidress. She and Kushner were likely headed to one of the many lavish parties the Amazon founder and his fiancée are throwing before they tie the knot. The caption: 'Ready to celebrate the love story of our friends.' The 43-year-old native New Yorker also posed with her brood on a terrace, writing in Italian: 'Da Venezia, con amore.' (From Venice, with love.) The stunning dome of the Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute can be seen in the background. More locals who have jetted in for the grand affair set to take place this weekend: Jared's younger brother Joshua Kushner and his pregnant supermodel wife Karlie Kloss, who is expecting their third child. The pair have a home in nearby North Bay Road, also in Miami Beach. Want to know how much of a six degrees of separation kind of town the 305 is? Kloss recently vacationed with Trump in Costa Rica, along with Gisele Bundchen, the ex wife of Tom Brady, who also lives in the Bunker in a ginormous bachelor pad. The NFL legend is expected by boat any minute now for what is expected to be the nuptials of the century. We have a feeling Bundchen, even if invited, might sit this one out. READ MORE: Jeff Bezos' wedding invite shocks the Internet
