Hipmunk Hotels: Experience the Northeast’s Beauty in Williamsburg, Portsmouth, and More
The Northeast is one of the most beautiful areas of the United States. If you’re looking to plan a visit, consider these five lesser-traveled cities to appreciate some of the best sights and things to do in the region.
Roanoke, Virginia
Roanoke may not be the first city that pops in your head when considering a vacation to Virginia, but outdoor enthusiasts are well-acquainted with the area’s biggest draw — the Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains. Nicknamed the “Star City of the South,” Roanoke is considered the recreational, cultural, and business center for the area, not to mention its nickname also comes from the iconic Roanoke Star that overlooks the surrounding valley from atop Mill Mountain.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth is blessed with a combination of good food, good scenery, and lots of history. As more people discover what a charming area it is, hotel prices are continually on the rise. Scoring a deal here may be harder, but it’s worth it to stay in Portsmouth. If you’re looking for a hotel that’s as charming as the town, look at the Ale House Inn. It’s an old converted brewery with rooms ranging from $199 to $340 a night most times of the year. Be sure to check their calendar as there are events happening year-round in Portsmouth; even in the winter with some fun options like the Winter Wine Festival in January and the Fire & Ice Festival in February.
Atlantic City, New Jersey
You might be wondering why Atlantic City would be included on a list of lesser-known spots, but most people only equate the city with the Jersey Shore and gambling. The city is also home to some great historic eateries, and of course, it’s considered the birthplace of salt water taffy. Check out some of the museums like the Atlantic City Historical Museum, or climb to the top of the 19th-century Absecon Lighthouse near the Boardwalk. And, Lucy the Elephant, is an elephant-shaped building built in 1881 that you can take a tour of. What makes Atlantic City great though is the ease of great day trips to sleepy nearby towns like Cape May and sites like the Renault Winery in Egg Harbor City.
Reading, Pennsylvania
Reading is located in the heart of the Pennsylvania Dutch area and was founded back in the mid-1700’s. Mountain biking is a popular year-round activity in Reading, with the Union Canal Trail and the Wyomissing Creek Trail, two of the most popular options. On these trails, you’ll pass by some interesting historical sights, along with lush woodlands, home to ample wildlife. There are plenty of cheap hotels to be found in Reading, with deals like $58 a night at the Country Inn Motel.
Williamsburg, Virginia
Founded in 1632, the historic city of Williamsburg was the capital of Virginia from 1699 to 1780. Well-known for the role it played in the American Revolution, you’ll find Colonial Williamsburg to be a living museum, with actors in period costume depicting day-to-day Colonial life in the streets, stores, and workshops. With only around 16,000 residents, the hotels to choose from may be limited. If you’re looking for boutique properties, consider Williamsburg Inn, the closest hotel to Colonial Williamsburg with rates starting at around $260 a night.