The holidays are drawing to a close and, once you have taken down all your decorations and are ready for a little getaway, a big city may be your best choice. Often, the prices are lower in the winter, you can get some great and reasonably priced hotel accommodations, and enjoy the local attractions with fewer crowds.
Chicago: Those icy cold winds may whip off Lake Michigan during the winter in The Windy City, but bundle up and enjoy this beautiful location while there are fewer crowds and better prices. Experience the ultimate in luxury with a stay at the Villa D’Citta bed and breakfast in Lincoln Park and you may never want to leave. Or make a reservation for an executive suite at the Hyatt McCormick Place and enjoy your incredible view of Lake Michigan and Navy Pier. Plan dinner one night at The Storefront, a lovely neighborhood restaurant with delicious food and a delightful atmosphere. Get out of the cold in the famous Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, or the Adler Planetarium – all of which are located within walking distance of each other.
St. Louis. The Gateway to the West is a great winter destination as the famous Arch is open all year round and many of the local attractions will be beautiful in the winter. Huge Forest Park is even larger than Central Park and, if you are lucky enough to have some snow, there are some great hills for sledding. Warm up in the lovely Missouri Botanical Garden where the lush foliage and fountains will remind you of a tropical location. Check into the Embassy Suites St. Louis – Downtown and enjoy their large, two-room suites, kitchenette, and a fabulous, hot breakfast every morning complete with an omelet bar. Stop in Imo’s one day for lunch and dinner to check out St. Louis’ very own version of pizza made with the unique and delicious Provel cheese.
New York. The Big Apple is the perfect winter getaway location for theater and restaurant lovers. While it might be too cold to stroll around the city, make plans to stay warm and see “Jersey Boys” at the August Wilson Theater. Prepare to be singing and clapping along with the rest of the crowd during this amazing show. Stop before the show for dinner at The Ember Room, an easy walk from the theater, and be sure to try the Mongolian Beef – just don’t be surprised at the raw egg on top as it will cook when stirred into the hot and delicious rice. Check into the charming Nolitan Hotel located in a quiet neighborhood between Chinatown and Little Italy – the perfect places to find great food. Be sure to try some fresh cannoli at one of the Italian bakeries.
Seattle. The Emerald City is not as cold in the winter as some of the other locations listed here so you will be able to enjoy a stroll to the Pike Place Market or a guided foodie walking tour with Savor Seattle. Check into the historic Mayflower Park Hotel and choose a very nice one bedroom suite or go more modern at the Hyatt at Olive 8, the first LEED certified hotel in the city. Don’t miss a visit to the Space Needle for an incredible view of the city and plan a meal at Agrodolce, a neighborhood restaurant with impeccably prepared, wonderful food. After lunch, stroll down to Lake Union to see the house boats which inspired the movie “Sleepless in Seattle”.
Savannah. If the first four locations sound way too cold in the winter, beautiful Savannah may be your best choice. With highs in the 60’s, Savannah is the perfect place to stroll around the lovely and historical squares of the city and, if you do get chilled, just pop in one of many mansion which offer tours. Spend some time visiting River Street and the many small shops and restaurants which line the ballast stone paved street overlooking the Savannah River. Have dinner at the Pirate House and enjoy the server’s tales of bygone days when diners were shanghaied on the waiting ships in the harbor. Check into the River Street Inn and enjoy an incredible view of the busy river, filled with boats transporting all sorts of goods.
Whatever city you choose, enjoy your winter getaway, relax and relish the fact that the craziness of the holidays is over for another year!
