It’s finally getting warm out and I’m sure we all want to travel this summer. As great as it is flying to faraway countries and immersing yourself into other cultures, there’s a lot of fun things you can do without extending yourself too far. If you’re trying to save money or you’re just in the mood for an adventure, road tripping can be your best option. Here’s an incomplete list of cool places that aren’t too far from New Jersey.
- Boston, MA
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Boston is a must see especially for college-age kids. At the heart of the city is Harvard University and across the bridge from it is MIT. I know a college is the last place you’d want to be is during the summer but the college towns in Boston are worth checking out. Additionally, Boston is famed for the key role it played in the American Revolution. The clash of Boston’s historical significance and its youthful population make it a truly unique experience.
Distance: 250 miles (4-5 hours)
Must-see: Boston Public Gardens, Quincy Market, Red Sox Stadium
Hidden gems; Graffiti Alley, Museum of Bad Art, Brattle Book Shop
When to visit: May 24-25. Boston hosts its annual Boston Calling music festival over Memorial Day Weekend.
- Washington, DC
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Washington Dc is filled to the brim with historical sites. There’s so much to do in the town that no matter how long you stay for, you’ll have more left to explore on your bucket list. It’s easy to ride the Metro or hop on a bike and explore all that the nation’s capital has to offer. Most of the museums and historical sites are free so this is ideal if you’re looking to go on a budget vacation.
Distance: 200 miles (3-4 hours)
Must-see: Smithsonian Museum, Lincoln Memorial, Historic Georgetown
Hidden gems: International Spy Museum, Lincoln Book Tower
Best time to go: 4th of July. As the capital of the country, Washington DC celebrates independence day more than the rest of us.
- Toronto, ON
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Toronto is split into six distinct districts. Each district is unique but they all united under Toronto’s own subculture. Toronto is one of the most culturally diverse cities on the planet with over 140 different languages spoken and over half its residents born outside of Canada. It is a sprawling city with much to offer, from architectural structures to bar crawls.
Distance: 490 miles (8 hours)
Must-see: St. Lawrence Market, Casa Loma, Ontario Botanical gardens, CN Tower
Hidden gems: Leslieville’s Crazy Doll House, The Rainbow Tunnel, Kensington Market
Best time to go: June 15-16 during its Annual Peony Festival
- Richmond, VA
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Richmond is up north enough to be considered a northern state but it is filled with its own southern charm. The city is perfect for a summer trip with the James River at the heart of the city’ Having the water so close makes activities like swimming, rafting, kayaking, and paddleboarding are central to city life. If outdoor activities sound like something you’d be into, check out Richmond’s outdoor arts and museum exhibits, sports, gardens, wildlife and more.
Distance: 315 miles (4.5 hours)
Must-see: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Maymont, Canal Walk
Hidden gems: Dinosaur Kingdom, Cary Street
Best time to go: Richmond is a great place to visit all summer long
So, next time you feel an urge to escape New Jersey and see someplace new, remember that popular destination spots like Cancun, Cabo, and Bali might be overrated. Whether you choose to road trip with your friends or with your family, you can make amazing memories right up the East Coast.