Now that travelers don’t require a PCR test to come home (for trips under 72 hours), it is time to book city weekend getaways south of the border. Whether you’re epicurious, a fan of the theatre or just in search of the perfect city break, here are some fantastic weekend getaways just a short flight away.
Chicago
Chi-town is always magical but add a layer of crisp snow and the city really sparkles. Stroll the luxurious Magnificent Mile for some world class shopping before basking in the twinkling lights of the Zoo or The Morton Arboretum.
Skate on the iconic ice rink at the famed Millennium Park as the sun glistens off the snow covered ‘Bean,’ Chicago’s beautiful skyline in the background. Continue your ice-skating journey along the Skating Ribbon, a winding path through Maggie Daley Park, oozing wintery charm.
Navy Pier never disappoints offering ‘Light Up the Lake,’ an indoor experience with light sculptures, a skating rink, a beer garden, kiddie train rides, market and more.
Finally, check out The Gwen Chicago and their indoor curling rink. Curl on the faux-ice rink with curling themed cocktails and stay warm around their rooftop firepits. In fact, you will be spoiled with choice when it comes to snuggling by a fire with someone you love…or at least like. Make sure you check out at least one of Chicago’s many cozy restaurant firepits, unique heated outdoor dining experiences or enchanted winter themed pop ups throughout the city. You will not be disappointed.
New York City
By morane
New York City in winter is a dream. It’s the only time of year when the dazzling lights of Broadway can be outdone by the sparkling lights and festive energy of the holiday season. Take in the spectacular holiday themed window dressings along Fifth Avenue or catch the Rockettes in action at the Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
The famed Rockefeller Centre Christmas Tree is worth a visit alone, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Glide across the Rockefeller skating rink before warming up with mulled wine in one of the City Winery Rockefeller Centre wine garden’s cozy Heated Domes. With a new rink side café and bar serving spiked cider and baked treats, it is easy to stay awhile in the city’s most popular plaza.
Head to Bryant Park for the annual Bank of America Winter Village, a 17,000 square foot skating rink with free admission and skates-to-rent. Stay warm in The Lodge, a bar and food hall with gourmet hot chocolate, ramen, deep fried mac n’ cheese balls and more. If you’d rather avoid the cold altogether, try your hand at iceless curling in a private heated dome with wine and charcuterie.
Winter Jazzfest runs from January 13-22 and has been voted the ‘#1 Jazzfest in North America.’ Showcasing some the greatest talents of the jazz world, Winter Jazzfest features over 700 artists and 170 groups across 21 stages in midtown Manhattan. Whether you’re new to jazz or a seasoned aficionado, this festival is THE destination for any arts lover and cultural connoisseur.
Boston
It is no secret that Boston is known for its snowy winters, so the best thing to do is embrace them. Grab a sled and head to Sugar Bowl, Jamaica Plain or Arnold Arboretum for some city slopes. Go snow shoeing on the grounds or head indoors for a living tour at Gore Place, a charming historic estate within Boston, continually awarded by the American Alliance of Museums.
If you can’t get through winter without a holiday market, Boston has you covered. The Boston Winter Holiday Market is held in City Plaza Government Center each year and attracts visitors from all over the world. Here you will find unique shops, tasty treats, and lively performances amidst gorgeous New England architecture.
Known for its history, a trip to Boston wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Freedom Trail. The snow dusted route will take you to sixteen on the city’s most historic sites including Massachusetts State House, Old South Meeting House, Old State House, and the site of the Boston Massacre. The path also leads to Faneuil Hall, home of an iconic marketplace worthy of a few hours at least. From shopping to eating to watching a dance show or concert (make sure that you have proper concert attire), there are so many fun ways to pass the time at this historic locale.
Finish your day with some hot chocolate at the Tazo Chocolate Factory, famous for their stone ground chocolate. Don’t miss their guided tours or Chocolate Story Time, a delicious way to end to your weekend away.
Read about weekend getaways and more from Natalie Preddie on The Adventures of Natty P & Co. and follow her on Instagram @_nattyp.
