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Your Next Vacation: Take a "One-Tank Trip" in the Northeastern United States

For residents in the Northeast, vacations usually lead south or west to sunny beaches, western mountains or exotic cities. But, if you're looking to take a staycation or plan a road trip in the northeastern U.S., you have all those things within reach. Here are just a few suggestions for a short road trip.

1. Spend time by the water.
The Northeast region offers ample opportunity to boat, fish, swim or just relax on a beach. The region encompasses hundreds of bodies of water, including the Atlantic Ocean, St. Lawrence River, Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, the Hudson River, the Finger Lakes and countless others. Depending on your starting point, you may want to plan a road trip to one of these aquatic destinations:

• Niagara Falls, which offers plenty of attractions both on and off the water. Check out the Falls during the day and again when they're illuminated at night. To see the Falls up close, ride the Maid of the Mist. Be sure to explore the surrounding parks and city, too.
• Jersey Shore, where you can soak up the sun and float in the Atlantic by the numerous resorts and beach communities that line the eastern coast of New Jersey. Rent a house and walk the boardwalks in the summer months.

2. Play in the mountains.
The mountainous terrain of the Northeast is perfect for avid outdoorsmen. The region's four-season climate offers exciting adventures year-round. Hiking and foliage observation is enjoyable during most seasons, and skiing is phenomenal in the winter. Check out destinations like the:

• Adirondack Mountains, where you can ski the Adirondack High Peaks in the winter for an experience that rivals any western mountain chain. During the summer, the hiking is breathtaking, and the many ponds nestled in the mountains offer a refreshing swim. At the end of a busy day, meander through quaint towns like Lake Placid or Saranac Lake.
• Lakes & Mountain Region of Maine, which is home to mountains perfect for hiking and camping. The White Mountains dot the skyline here, offering some challenging peaks to climb, like Mount Katahdin, Crocker Mountain and Old Speck Mountain.

3. Sample wineries.
If you're a wine lover, tour one of the many wineries located in the Northeast on your next staycation. You'll find that many offer tastings, tours and dinner. Premier regions to explore include:

• Finger Lakes, which consists of several spindly lakes in an environment ripe for winemaking. Try some of New York's finest wines in and among quaint historic towns.
• Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, which are home to several wineries. These Massachusetts locations also offer unmatched views and atmosphere.

4. Tour major cities.
In addition to outdoor activities, the Northeast is also home to some of the most exciting metropolitan areas in the country. Let your one-tank trip take you to one of these fabulous cities:

• New York City is less than a day's drive away no matter where you live in the region. Entertainment options in the Big Apple are virtually limitless during every season, and with so many famous restaurants, you'll find cuisine to satisfy every palate. In the summer, go to a Yankees game, and cruise around New York Harbor. In the fall and winter, see the Rockettes at Radio City, or take in a show on Broadway.
• Boston blends modern achievement with American history at every turn. Follow the Freedom Trail walking tour to see historic landmarks like the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution. Go whale watching, or stop into a local tavern for fresh clam chowder. Take in a game at historic Fenway Park, or tour Harvard. There's something to do everywhere you turn.
• Philadelphia is another city that merges the historic and the modern. Tour museums featuring subjects as varied as modern art, science and medical wonders. Visit Historic Philadelphia: one square mile of historical treasures including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and Franklin Court. You can also catch your choice of professional sports and grab an authentic Philly cheesesteak.

5. Go international.
Another unique feature of the Northeast is its close connection with Canada. Multiple border crossings throughout New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine put you within easy driving distance of pastoral, rustic outposts and cultural urban centers. Put these renowned destinations on the list when you're planning a road trip:

• Toronto and Montreal exemplify urban life in Canada. These dynamic cities are hubs of culture and art. The blend of residents and visitors makes for a varied landscape built on global influences. Tour these cities to see historic landmarks alongside modern shops and exciting sporting events.
• Niagara-on-the-Lake is a gem on Lake Ontario packed with wineries, historic hotels, small boutiques, beautiful parks and a world-renowned theater festival: the Shaw Festival. Spend a summer day here getting lost in it all.

With so much to do, all you need is a map and some fuel to make your next vacation in the Northeast memorable. Make sure your drive is a safe one, too. Review your car insurance coverage and driving safety tips to be sure you reach your destination as smoothly as possible. If you're looking for new car insurance, consider getting a quote from a company like Nationwide Insurance. In addition to collision coverage, having features like Roadside Assistance could make for happier travels.

About the Author

Kristin Armstrong is a Senior SEO Associate at Rosetta, the largest interactive agency in the U.S. Armstrong received an M.A. in Communication from The University of Dayton and has five years of experience in marketing.

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