It has been quite a year—international borders closed, intermittent lockdowns and “stay at home” orders became commonplace, and “virtual” became the way most of us travel or communicate. Travel during Covid has been especially challenging. We all want our confinement to end and to be able to come and go as easily as the birds. While our passports are gathering a little more dust, we are reminded of the hidden treasures that can be found in our own backyard. This short list offers magnificent destinations, reaching from coast to coast, that allow us to explore the wonders of our domestic soil while remaining safe during the pandemic.
Hidden Gems on the East Coast
Asheville, North Carolina & The Blue Ridge Mountains
Asheville has something for everyone. Tour the Biltmore Estate with enough art and architecture to rival any European castle. Wander the River Arts District, get out of town for wonderful hikes, and enjoy a special dinner.
Haywood County—Gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
A wonderful destination for anyone wanting to escape New York or Washington D.C. Haywood County offers accommodations at all levels of luxury or adventure. Reconnect with a legendary area, unique on our planet.
Wylder Hotel, Tilghman Island, Chesapeake Bay
This 54-room resort, set on nine picturesque acres on its own little island, has become so popular that is gets sold out every weekend. There are wonderful restaurants, a private marina, and plenty of outdoor sports. If you crave privacy or want to keep that social distance, go for a refreshing bike ride in the salt air and then relax with a gourmet meal delivered to your room.
Nemacolin Woodland Resort, Farmington, Pennsylvania
With a history spanning generations, from a hunting lodge to complex with golf course and casino, Nemacolin is a well-known destination for vacations and events. It was even recently featured as the set for a season of The Bachelor. Offering a variety of dining, activities, and especially known for golf, Nemacolin is in southern Pennsylvania, not far from West Virginia and just a stone's throw from Fort Necessity National Battlefield.
Glendorn Lodge, Bradford, Pennsylvania
This wonderful lodge is an easy drive from my home in Northeast Ohio. It offers the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, a wedding, a power-sharing meeting, or anything that can be imagined. This often-overlooked gem features more than 1,500 acres of edenic hiking and biking trails, and the nearby Allegheny National Forest, Allegheny State Park, and Bondieu Lake provide endless adventure.
West Coast Wonders
Wine Country—Napa & Sonoma Counties, California
While Napa is the most famous wine region in the United States, Sonoma offers a quieter and more laid-back experience. Resorts and B&B’s are everywhere, with facilities from basic to luxury to spa. Stay right in downtown Napa, close to everything, at the Andaz Hotel, or for ultimate pampering head up to the Yountville or the Bardessono Hotel and Spa. No trip to Wine Country is complete without winery visits and elegant feasts at Michelin-rated restaurants. But don’t miss the 19th century Mission San Francisco in Sonoma, along with the charming colonial era plaza. To clear the head after a few winery tours, head out to the Jack London State Historic Park and contemplate the writer’s contribution to the West’s culture or try yoga in the vineyards.
Red Rock, Nevada
For a getaway that’s not too far from civilization, head to Red Rock Casino & Spa. Indulge in all the resort has to offer after exploring the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. This gorgeous area is only 17 miles from Las Vegas.
Canyon Madness Ranch, New Mexico
This latest addition to getting away from our daily Zoom meetings is in a remote part of northeastern New Mexico. The specialty here is equestrian activities, hiking, fishing, and all terrain vehicles. The Teepee Lodge with only eight suites will guarantee you can forget—at least for a while—about COVID containment.
Book Your Next Adventure with Dream Maker Destinations
When you're ready to explore the wonders awaiting you in your own backyard, Dream Maker Destinations is here to make your vacation dreams come true. We believe travel is about expanding horizons and fulfilling dreams—even when traveling on domestic soil. Contact us today!
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