Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Living Social Escapes: Key West, Fort Pierce, Cape Haze, Arizona ...

Monterey, CA: $93.81 for California Boutique Hotel at Hotel Abrego ($159 Value)

An unpretentious city with a literary past, Monterey's low-key lifestyle and glistening bay have been the backdrop for a slew of novels. From Stevenson to Steinbeck, wordsmiths have flocked to this coastal city's diverse landscape for inspiration. Pen your own storybook getaway with an Escape to Cali's Central Coast, where you and a companion will spend one night in a single or double-queen Premier Fireplace Room at the Hotel Abrego, rated "Excellent" by TripAdvisor. The property also provides complimentary Wi-Fi and parking. Located within walking distance of the shops and sites of downtown, Hotel Abrego is Monterey's newest boutique hotel. As one of 93 uniquely designed rooms, your Premier Fireplace guest room boasts Italian linens, a flat-screen TV, an inviting fireplace, and a large walnut writing desk with an ergonomic chair?perfect for jotting down the highlights of your seaside respite. "Despite its mix of seaside village charm, rows of honky-tonk tourist shops, and a fairly sterile, convention-ready downtown, Monterey still feels easy to define by one word: water," says The New York Times. "Want to go paddling among the seals? In a flash, you can be outfitted and kayaking in the bay, while right down the road are the town's famous aquarium, comfy hotels, and sophisticated restaurants." Your California chapter begins at the historic Cannery Row?a quirky waterfront street located where sardine-canning factories once stood. The setting of several books, songs, and films, the area is home to unique shops and restaurants, as well as a colony of sea lions. Later, draft a delicious meal from Shake's Old Fisherman's Grotto, home of the best clam chowder according to Monterey County Weekly's Readers' Choice Awards. Boasting harbor views, the family eatery has been dishing out mouthwatering seafood for more than 50 years. Whether you're writing a love letter to relaxation or an ode to adventure, this Escape to Monterey is sure to inspire a masterpiece.

Cambria, CA: $85 for Central Coast Inn at Castle Inn ($155 Value)

Grab your champagne glass, put your pinkie up, and don your smoking jacket: It's time to act like the royalty/rock star/international business magnate you are (or dream of being) with this Escape to Castle Inn in lovely Cambria, on California's Central Coast. Your ascent to greatness begins with a one-night stay for two, Sundays through Thursdays ($85) or Fridays and Saturdays ($99), both in ocean-view rooms, naturally, and you'll have access to the heated pool and hot tub, as a person of your stature should. You'll even be greeted with freshly baked homemade cookies upon arrival. Your package also includes a continental breakfast at the Castle Inn and a voucher for Madeline's Restaurant, where you can enjoy half off any bottle of wine or a free prosciutto-wrapped lobster, smoked-pheasant crostini, or other mouthwatering appetizer of your choice. You'll want to venture out to be with your people, of course, so a visit to the nearby Hearst Castle is an absolute must. The architecturally stunning castle was built for newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst. To travel back in time, purchase tour tickets and take in the decadence of the grand rooms, the upstairs suites, the cottages and kitchens, and the gorgeous gardens. After checking out the noble digs, you can come back down to earth with two-for-one tastings at Cambria Beer Company. This brand-new craft brewery produces small-batch beers and ales like the Mudhoney oatmeal stout and Slab Town pale ale. From there, return to your own castle and take a walk on the boardwalk at Moonstone Beach, located right across from the Castle Inn. Watch the surfers, go hunting for starfish at the tide pools, or just relax on the beach and ponder your grand life. Raise a glass to yourself, your subjects, and your fabulousness with this grand Escape.

Mayville, WI: $49 for Historic Wisconsin Inn at Audubon Inn ($99 Value)

If you prefer nippy Northern winters over scorching Southern temps, skip the snowbird mass migration and nest close to home with this week's Escape to The Audubon Inn in Mayville, Wisconsin. Fly the coop for an overnight stay for two in a standard room, Sundays through Thursdays ($49) or Fridays and Saturdays ($59). Check in in the evening and be greeted to two handmade desserts at The Beaumont Restaurant. Then, wake up happier than a spring chicken in the morning with an included continental breakfast of make-your-own pancakes, hard-boiled eggs, oatmeal, cereal, tea, breads, and fresh fruit. Located halfway between Milwaukee and Madison, this unique B&B was built in 1896 and transports visitors back to a bygone era. It's a nationally recognized historical landmark with period features, hand-carved furniture, and distinctive d?cor, but also modern amenities. Each room is equipped with an extra large double Jacuzzi tub, Wi-Fi, cable TV, and a coffee maker?and each is elegantly appointed with a queen-size, four-poster canopy bed with handmade quilts, a private bath, and a writing desk and chair with Tiffany lamps for added charm and character. Head out to Horicon Marsh, Wisconsin's largest wildlife preserve. Spend the day snowshoeing or cross-country skiing around the Horicon Marsh, visit the old-fashioned confectionery store, or grab a slice of cheddar at Widmer's Cheese Cellars?or just wing it: There's plenty to do in this historic hamlet. Relax with a cocktail at the Beaumont Bar. Named Wisconsin's Most Beautiful Bar, it boasts gorgeous stained-glass windows, high ceilings, and a stained-glass ceiling depicting the migration of the Canadian geese. Then, dine in the award-winning Beaumont Restaurant, and try the roasted duck breast with Door County cherry-demi glace or the sweet potato gnocchi. Visitors flock to this charming area for its avian-inspired ambiance, old-world charm, and friendly small-town feel. With this high-flying Escape, you can warm up this winter without ever having to leave Wisconsin.

Seattle, WA: $79 for Downtown Seattle B&B at Pensione Nichols ($145 Value)

"Once the favored lodging of Alan Ginsberg and a smattering of beat poets and artists throughout the years," writes Fodor's, "Pensione Nichols offers one of the few affordable and unique options in Downtown Seattle." Indeed, if you want to wax poetic about the real Emerald City, an Escape to this historic pet-friendly downtown B&B is the place to do it. Start a revolution during a one-night stay for two guests in a Boutique Guest Room with a shared bath ($79) or for up to four guests in a Suite with a kitchenette, private bath, and Puget Sound views ($149). In the morning, feed your stomach with "the Soul of Seattle"?Pike Place Market right next door?and enjoy an included market-fresh breakfast of fresh fruit, coffee cake, corn bread, and French-press Del Mondo coffee in a breakfast room with waterfront views. Then, draw inspiration from the characters you'll meet during a walk through the market?street performers, musicians, farmers, and craftspeople all coalesce to form the perfect urban scene. Later experience life on the rails when you hop aboard the Seattle Center Monorail for a ride around town. Transcend senses of time and space from the Space Needle's observation deck. Later, conttinue to indulge your artistic senses at the Modern Art Museum and the Experience Music Project, which exhibits major music imports as well as home-grown heroes. Keel your day rolling along by grabbing a seat on the Great Wheel. Come dinner time, you'll live?and eat?to the fullest at Emmett Watson's Oyster Bar or The Pink Door from Italian-American fare. Get hip to this Seattle original and book an eccentric Escape today?the clock, after all, is... beating.

Taos, NM: $188 for Historic New Mexico Inn at Taos Inn ($372 Value)

Coated with the adobe of Spanish Colonial-style architecture, the copper glow of Taos, New Mexico, harkens to the heart of Southwestern history. In fact, the town's name means "place of red willows" in the native Taos tongue?and the culture of this Western town burns with same colorful passion and propensity for lively adventure. Get ready for a red-hot Escape to the historic Taos Inn, acclaimed by National Geographic Traveler as "One of America's Great Inns," during a two-night stay for two in a King Room ($188), Saturdays through Thursdays, complete with an included bottle of wine. With free live entertainment nightly and close proximity to a bevy of winter sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, and a bustling town center, you'll have plenty of fuel to feed your fire for thrills. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the inn is comprised of several 19th-century adobe houses that surround a two-and-a-half-story, stained-glass fountain. "It's rare to see a hotel that has withstood the years with grace, but the Historic Taos Inn has done just that," says Frommer's. "The lobby doubles as the Adobe Bar, a popular local gathering place, with adobe bancos (benches) and a sunken fireplace, all surrounding a wishing well that was once the old town well." Wake up glowing in your custom-furnished King Room?outfitted with plenty of space and antique d?cor?or hit the hotel's legendary lobby. From artists to business folks, the communal spot offers loads of character and plenty of conversation?which you might want to continue over dinner at the inn's on-site eatery, Doc Martin's Restaurant. Later, stroll to nearby Taos Plaza where Spanish settlers began their colonization of the town in 1616. A center of shops and monuments, the plaza is a prime spot to catch music, food, and dance before grabbing a "Best of Taos" award-winning margarita at the inn's Adobe Bar. The bar offers 15 specialty margs, and the signature Cowboy Buddah is an institutional favorite. While a Southwestern sunset is sure to please, an Escape to Taos will light a fire of inspiration.

Lake Placid, NY: $269 for Adirondacks Resort at Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort ($395 Value)

Recreation doesn't stop for the winter in Lake Placid. The host of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics has plenty of winter sports spots and Olympic venues in the Adirondack village, leading National Geographic Traveler to name it one of Best Winter Trips 2012. But getaways to the New York town don't have to be high adventure; visitors can opt to spend their time on skis at Whiteface or in front of a cozy fire in their room at Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, overlooking the appropriately named Mirror Lake. Stay for one night ($199 or $269, depending on when you travel) in a specialty room, such as the warm-toned Haystack, which boasts a king-size bed, an oversized whirlpool, and sparkling lake views. Or, check out the Wright Peak, with wrought-iron chandeliers and views of both the mountains and the Olympic Village. All specialty rooms have fireplaces and pillow-top mattresses, and Escapees will have an included bottle of wine and in-room movie. Wake up to breakfast in bed, perhaps cinnamon-brioche French toast with whipped orange butter, hearty steak and eggs, or eggs Benedict draped in lush hollandaise. When you do get out from under the covers, strap on some ice skates or cross-country skis. Then, make your way to the Goose Watch Winery, where you'll be treated to a tasting of their creations, which include Viogners, Rieslings, Chambourcins, and Cabernets. Later, take a romantic dog sled ride before sinking into the adults-only hot tub and dining on locally sourced fare at the resort's Generations Restaurant.

Annapolis, MD: $94 for Annapolis Hotel at SpringHill Suites Annapolis ($169 Value)

Annapolis, Maryland, is a state capital for the history books. Instead of towering buildings and mass transit, its cobblestone streets are lined with century-old inns and taverns. When you're in the mood for getaway just as timeless, consider this Escape to SpringHill Suites Annapolis?ranked the #1 hotel in the area by TripAdvisor. You and a compatriot will spend one night in a Standard Studio Suite and receive a complimentary continental breakfast for two and a $20 Marriott MarketPlace credit ($94). Suite-style accommodations offer one king or two queen beds, a sitting area, a kitchenette, and high-speed Internet access. And don't worry if you've forgotten something; you can use your $20 credit to buy toiletries and snacks at the on-site convenience store. The credit is also valid toward the purchase of beer or wine. After a complimentary continental breakfast, set out to write the next chapter of your vacation story. "In the lively port of Annapolis, Colonial Maryland continues to assert itself," says Fodor's review of Annapolis. "Today 'Crabtown,' as the state capital is sometimes called, has one of the highest concentrations of 18th-century buildings in the nation, including more than 50 that predate the Revolutionary War." Swing by The Annapolis Maritime Museum?including, among other exhibits, a 455-million-year-old horseshoe crab?or ship off on a tour of the U.S. Naval Academy. Complete your afternoon admiring old-fashioned vessels and contemporary boats over a frothy beer at Annapolis's City Dock. You can study the nooks and crannies of downtown streets as you walk around the State Capital circle or amble along Maryland Avenue, lined with antique shops, art galleries, and clothing stores. After a day of sightseeing, return to the hotel for a relaxing dip in the indoor spa. No matter the weather, the young and the young at heart can always make a splash in the indoor heated pool. You'll enjoy all the rich maritime tradition with the intimacy of yesteryear during Annapolis's off-season, making this Escape one for the ages.

Upperville, VA: $299 for Virginia Hunt Country Inn at Blackthorne Inn & Restaurant ($575 Value)

Grab your favorite lad or lass to join you for two nights at the quaint Blackthorne Inn & Restaurant, a traditional Irish bed and breakfast at the foot of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The road will rise to meet you on your way to a two-night stay in one of the inn's charming cabins, Sundays through Thursdays ($299) or Fridays and Saturdays ($399). You'll enjoy a full homemade breakfast each morning, a bottle of wine, a fruit and cheese plate, a $25 credit for the restaurant or Wolfe Tone's Pub, and a wine tasting for two at a local vineyard. Consider yourself very lucky, indeed, to be staying in the 1763 stone house?once owned by George Washington?in the heart of Virginia's Hunt Country, just miles from year-round entertainment like polo matches, steeplechase races, rafting, antique shops, and Civil War battlefields. May the sun shine warm upon your face during an afternoon of taking in the scenery on a hike near historic Ashby Gap. Then, top off your evening with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness at Wolfe Tone's Pub. With breakfast overlooking a serene pond and a setting as green as the Irish countryside, you'll need not even leave the cabin for an authentic experience. Sink into Celtic comfort just 60 miles from the bustle of Washington, DC, at at price that just might call for a jig.

Key West, FL: $300 for Key West B&B at Duval House ($602 Value)

Just because the days are getting shorter doesn't mean you can't Escape to a place where the sun still operates on island time. Trade in the watch for a pair of flip flops, and bask in the glow of this Key West Escape, where a stay at the Duval House?a Caribbean-style seven-building B&B in the heart of Old Key West's bustling town center?is as soothing as sand beneath your toes. Soak up a two-night stay for two in a Deluxe Room from November 12 to December 26, 2012, Sundays through Thursdays ($270) or Fridays and Saturdays ($300) or from January 2 to January 13, 2013, ($335). If you're a more-the-merrier type, grab two extra beach chairs for a two-night stay for up to four in a Specialty Cottage or Duplex from November 12 to December 26, 2012, Sundays through Thursdays ($325) or Fridays and Saturdays ($355) or from January 2 to January 13, 2013 ($395) Wood floors, French doors, flat-screen TVs, private balconies, and guaranteed included parking are sure to float your boat. Start each morning with an included daily continental breakfast with coffee and juice, fresh fruit, yogurt, cereal, English muffins and bagels, Danishes, and hard-boiled eggs in the garden gazebo of the house's tropical veranda. With lush garden nooks and a babbling fountain courtyard, you'll find your preferred seat isn't at the bar but in the hammock. Toast the tides by embarking on a four-hour catamaran tour of the Gulf and schmooze with sea turtles, marine birds, dolphins, and spotted eagle rays at Dry Tortugas nature preserve. Add a splash of adventure to your getaway with a JetSki, Waverunner, banana boat, or kayak rental?or simply sip in the sunset aboard a Sunfish sailboat as you cruise past shipwrecks and the North American Great Barrier Reef. Leave the car keys at the hotel?this two-by-four mile island is perfect for walkers. Ramble on Duval Street and encounter The Truman White House, Hemingway Home, The Butterfly Museum, and Key West Aquarium. You'll be surprised how two-days can feel like an eternity and an instant all in just a matter of moments?but then again, in Key West, you're on island time.

El Portal, CA: $184 for Yosemite View Lodge at Yosemite View Lodge ($368 Value)

Imagine you're in Rhode Island, but instead of bubblers and spas (water fountains and corner stores, in Little Rhody parlance), you're surrounded by burbling creeks and soaring sequoias. That's Yosemite National Park: 1,200 square miles?the same size as Rhode Island?of wild America. Head just two hours north of Fresno for this week's Escape to the 336-room Yosemite View Lodge, which overlooks the Merced River on the border of the park. You'll get a two-night stay for up to four guests in a Two Queen Room with mountain views at this El Portal resort, plus a host of other perks ($184). Check in to your room, which boasts a private balcony and a bathtub, for which you'll get a spa basket upon arrival. Take a dip in the indoor pool and head back to the room (with kitchenette) to unwind. Unlike Rhode Island's brand of wild (think Sunday afternoon at a Providence sports bar), Yosemite screams peace. See for yourself when you head 15 miles east to Yosemite Valley. And just as Rhode Island is one of the country's oldest states, Yosemite is one of its oldest parks. And for good reason. Imagine stumbling upon the continent's highest waterfall, the iconic Yosemite Falls, or seeing Carlon Falls (a rare year-round waterfall). Rent snowshoes and hike up the Crane Flat lookout trail, which offers spectacular 360-degree views of the landscape below. In the evening, grab a window seat overlooking the Merced at The River Restaurant & Lounge. One of two restaurants at the lodge, this casually upscale eatery dishes up hearty rib-sticking meals and cocktails with sophistication. With more than a thousand miles of land to roam, a cozy room in which to unwind, and a babbling brook to lull you to sleep, this Escape is like two days on your very own wild Rhode Island. For additional information, visit Yosemite View Lodge on Facebook.

Galveston, TX: $274 for Gulf Coast Hotel at Moody Gardens Hotel ($553 Value)

When it comes to dishing out a bounty of year-round entertainment, Galveston gets it right. The Lone Star State's coastal hot spot is packed with activities that keep things interesting, from aquariums and gardens to wining and dining. Escape into the brilliant botanical setting of Moody Gardens Hotel, where the property's tropical landscaping adds exotic flair. Opt for a two-night stay for two?from now to November 22, 2012, or from November 25, 2012, to January 31, 2013?with two passes to the Aquarium and Rainforest Pyramids ($274). Or, gobble up a two-night stay for two from November 23 to 25, 2012, with two VIP passes to the Holiday Gift Market and admission to the Festival of Lights ($257). No matter when you visit, you'll receive valet parking. After marveling at the hotel's lavish lobby, taste the Texas spirit with included fruit and wine in the comfort of your king or double-queen room. In addition to offering amenities like plush bathrobes, turndown service, and Wi-Fi, your spacious accommodations deliver panoramic views of the Pyramids or Galveston Island. "Galveston, resurrected over the last century, preserves much of the character that made it Texas's largest and most important city in the last decades of the 19th century," says The New York Times. "Guarded by a 17-foot seawall and connected to the mainland by a hurricane-resistant concrete bridge, it has one of the state's most striking collections of historic buildings, their limestone facades standing firm against the salty air." Those opting to spice up the day-to-day will sneak peeks of the playful penguins, seals, and sharks at the Aquarium Pyramid or study more than 1,000 species of exotic flora and fauna at the Rainforest Pyramid. Meanwhile, holiday visitors will stock up on gifts with a pair of VIP passes to the hotel's Holiday Gift Market, then get in the spirit with included admission to the Festival of Lights. Whether you ring in the season or marvel at Galveston's bells and whistles, this Texas Escape is sure to inspire plenty of smiles.

Little Rock, AR: $185 for Little Rock B&B at Robinwood Bed & Breakfast ($371 Value)

You don't need to rob from the rich to afford a great getaway?Escape to Little Rock's Robinwood Bed & Breakfast and bring justice to your vacations. The prairie-style home, inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright's iconic architecture, boasts a sprawling wraparound porch and open interior spaces. Stay for two weekday or weekend nights in the Albert Pike, Grady Manning, or La Fayette Room ($185); all accommodations have a king or queen-size bed, private bathrooms, high-speed Internet, a flat-screen TV, and a Jacuzzi for two with spa robes to unwind and relax. After a restful night's sleep, wake up to a daily breakfast: Seasonal fruit with homemade bread or muffins are served before the entr?e, which may be an omelet, quiche, or other delicious dish (depending on the day). Then, venture out to Little Rock and explore the city's rich history and culture. Forge ahead to the River Market district and stop at the William J. Clinton Presidential Center, which contains the largest collection of presidential papers and artifacts in US history and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office. The revamped district is home to numerous restaurants, shops, galleries, and a bustling nightlife, so you won't be short of entertainment or boutique windows to browse. And art enthusiasts will feel as if they've hit the bull's-eye when they enter Arkansas Arts Center, the state's largest cultural institution with seven different galleries and works from Degas and Picasso. Back at the B&B, feel like merry men and women with an included bottle of champagne, candles, and chocolate-covered brandied cherries one night, and wine and chocolates the second night. After all, once you aim your arrow at this Escape to Little Rock, stress is officially outlawed.

Idyllwild, CA: $129 for SoCal Mountain Motel at Strawberry Creek Bunkhouse ($257 Value)

The Cahuilla Indians were onto something special. Long before Idyllwild was included in the Great Towns of Southern California guidebook, this low-key high-alpine resort for in-the-know Angelenos was the vacation home for bands of Cahuilla Indians escaping the heat of the desert floor. Discover California's original vacation home?known as the Yosemite of the South?with an Escape for a two-night stay for two, Sundays through Thursdays ($129) or Fridays and Saturdays ($139), at the 16-room Strawberry Creek Bunkhouse, about two hours southeast of LA. Each forest-view room at this boutique motel boasts a kitchenette, Wi-Fi, cable TV, Barista Bath & Body bath amenities, and a private balcony overlooking the towering pines of the San Jacinto Mountains. Kick off each morning with a breakfast basket delivered to your door, chock-full of fresh-baked scones and homemade lemon curd, fresh fruit, gourmet oatmeal packets, and 100-percent fruit juice. Then, pop the cork on a true California experience with an included wine tasting at Idyll Awhile Wine Shoppe and Bistro before continuing to placate your palate with a complimentary appetizer at La Bella Montagna Restaurant. Bike the popular 17-mile Ramona Trail by using your included $25 bicycle-rental credit at Hub Cyclery. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you'll want to try world-famous rock climbing at Taqhuitz Rock. Less strenuous pursuits include fishing the pristine waters of Lake Fulmor. Before you leave, be sure to visit the ancient grinding slabs left behind by the Cahuilla Indians. Some say their spirits still roam the area, which comes as a surprise to exactly no one who's been here?one visit and you'll never want to leave.

Akron, PA: $68 for Lancaster County B&B at Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast ($150 Value)

Time waits for no one, but you can slow it down a little with this Escape to Pennsylvania Dutch Country. Visit the Bella Vista Bed & Breakfast for a one-night stay for two, Sundays through Thursdays ($68), or a two-night stay for two any days of the week ($130). Step back in time as you're greeted with a gift basket filled with candy, pretzels, whoopie pies, and a coupon for one dessert at the Olde Lincoln House Restaurant & Tavern. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania's beautiful Lancaster County, the Bella Vista charms visitors with its post-Victorian architecture and old-fashion hospitality. Stately trees along with a lush lawn and garden add natural grace to the property. You'll lodge in one of six cheerfully decorated guest rooms, all offering Wi-Fi access. Relax with some quality time in the comfortable sitting room while you enjoy the company of other guests and dine by the light of large bay windows. Each morning, an included family-style breakfast will help you rise and shine. After breakfast, you'll have a whale of a time strolling through the small rural towns or discovering a wide variety of activities nearby. The Bella Vista is less than 20 minutes from Dutch Country attractions such as antique shops, the Ephrata Cloister, the Landis Valley Museum, and a downtown Lancaster walking tour. The less history-inclined will delight in productions at the American Music Theatre or playtime at Dutch Wonderland. When it's time to call it a day, return to the B&B to relax on the lawn, rock on the porch swing, or amble through the 50-acre park across the street. And no matter when you visit the Bella Vista, you'll be in the right place at the right time.

Guerneville, CA: $149 for Northern California Boutique Hotel at boon hotel + spa ($295 Value)

Swirling about in your vacation fantasies is a world where wine flows freely and the California vines reach up to meet you. Uncork the complete package with an Escape to boon hotel + spa, a hip boutique hotel and modern Northern California bistro bottled into one delicious experience. Pour yourself a glass of sophistication and scenery with one-night stay, Sundays through Thursdays ($149) or Fridays and Saturdays ($189), in a standard room or a deluxe king or queen room with a private back deck or back yard. Or, let your experience age at little longer with a two-night stay in the same lodgings, Sundays through Thursdays ($248) or Fridays and Saturdays ($338). Each package offers a bouquet of extras including daily continental breakfasts, a $50 spa credit, a welcome bottle of Russian River wine, and a wine tasting at four select wineries. Diffuse some of that pent-up energy with a scenic bike ride?bicycle use is complimentary from 8 a.m. until dusk. Drink in the funky town of Guerneville or get a taste of Armstrong Woods, a serene and majestic state park where you can marvel at 1,000-year-old redwood trees that stand up to 250 feet tall. Try a blend of rest and relaxation when you return to boon's spa. Indulge in a Swedish, deep-tissue, or Reiki massage; or try a facial with organic products that include a seaweed anti-wrinkling mask. Add a fine finish to your pampering with a soak in the 104-degree Jacuzzi. Then, dip into an array of local dishes and wine with a visit to boon eat + drink, a short drive away in Guerneville. For a true vintage experience, Escapees are entitled to a wine-tasting at four different wineries including Moshin Vineyards, Thomas George Estates, VML, Twomey, and Arista Winery. If your palate proves relentless, Napa is only an hour-and-a-half away. At night, while you're breathing in the open-air from your private deck, be sure to thank the reds, whites, and pinks (as well as the romantic sunset) that made this Escape so unforgettably colorful.

New Orleans, LA: $359 for New Orleans Luxury Hotel at Loews New Orleans Hotel ($719 Value)

New Orleans at dusk conjures up hazy daydreams of impromptu jazz performances and early morning revelry. Instead of lulling yourself to sleep with fantasies of a Crescent City getaway, wake up your senses with this enchanting Escape to the Loews New Orleans Hotel. Rated one of the "Top 50 Large City Hotels in the US and Canada" by Travel + Leisure in 2011, the hotel furnishes a vibrant backdrop for your N'awlins reveries. "Swanky. Ooh-la-la. These are the words that spring to mind as you enter the stylish Loews hotel," says Frommer's. "It's a sharp-dressed combo of modern and moderne, with judiciously applied sprinkles of New Orleans flavor. Whatever it is, we are quite smitten." Flatter your fancies with a two-night stay for two in a Luxury Room ($359) or Grand Room ($379), complete with ten-foot ceilings and original artwork. Also part of your Escape is one $10 parking credit per night and high-speed Internet access. Just three blocks away is the iconic French Quarter, where those seeking beguiling history and joie de vivre in a glass will find a refreshing blend of both. "The French Quarter is much more than an historic district. It is the cultural and geographic focal point of New Orleans," says Lonely Planet. Filled with sidewalk caf?s and offbeat galleries, the neighborhood is alternately touristy and unfiltered. You'll also receive a host of discounts to the eclectic Magazine Street shops. Introduce some elegance into your interiors with d?cor and gifts from The Shops at 2011 Magazine, or spice up an evening ensemble with a chic pair of heels at Ele Shoes & Accessories. Finish your fantastical furlough at the hotel's restaurant and bar. You can use an included $25 dinner credit to enjoy Louisiana shrimp and okra gumbo or sample bacon-crusted oysters at Caf? Adelaide, then toast your meal with innovative cocktails like the Wild Magnolia?Plymouth gin, St. Germain, lemon, and house-made magnolia bitters?at Swizzle Stick Bar. Swap imagined adventures for the vacation of your dreams in the Big Easy. A haze of jubilant jazz and Southern decadence awaits.

Valparaiso, IN: $299 for Bed & Breakfast + Nightly Dinner at Songbird Prairie Bed & Breakfast ($598 Value)

Just 50 miles from the bustle of Chicago, and less than 15 miles from one of Indiana's most awe-inspiring natural wonders, Songbird Prairie Bed & Breakfast is perfectly situated for a romantic getaway that dabbles in a bit of both the great outdoors and the incredible indoors. Get a two-night stay for two in one of four plush suites, plus dinner for two each night at your choice of restaurants: Bon Femme Caf?, Bistro 157, Restaurante don Quijote, or Meditrina. Flutter past the front door and choose among the Robin, Bluebird, Cardinal, and Purplefinch Suites at the property named one of Midwest Living's favorite B&Bs and "one of the 20 perfect summer getaways" by Travel + Leisure. All rooms have fireplaces to keep you warm and spa tubs for two to keep the temps rising. You'll wake up chirping after your first night on plush beds, and then take breakfast in the sunroom, listening to the song of the birds from the nearby woods through piped-in microphones. Trade in your bird's-eye view of nature for one that's up close and personal when you plan a visit to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, where Karner Blue butterflies flit, swallows nest, and waves crash along the shores. After a day in the dunes, treat yourself to a massage back at Songbird Prairie. The on-site spa offers a variety of relaxing treatments, from couples' massage to facials. For dinner, you'll have your choice of four local restaurants. Dine on duck ? l'orange at Bon Femme Caf?, tuck into tapas and paella at Restaurante don Quijote, explore an American twist on French and Asian cuisine at Bistro 157, or feast on classic Mediterranean dishes made with fresh, seasonal ingredients at Meditrina. Trust us?this Escape is not just for the birds.

San Antonio, TX: $99 for San Antonio Hotel at DoubleTree by Hilton, San Antonio ($196 Value)

From The Alamo to La Villita, downtown San Antonio captures the diversity of the Southwest with its unique collection of districts. Check out the Texas city's buzzing center with this Escape to the DoubleTree by Hilton, San Antonio?located in the heart of the central business hub. Grab that special someone and head off for a couple's retreat during a one-night stay, Sundays through Thursdays ($99) or Fridays and Saturdays ($109), in a Standard King or Double Room. Or, bring the entire crew and enjoy a family getaway with a one-night stay for two adults and two kids in a Double Room ($135), Fridays through Sundays. No matter which option you choose, you'll snag access to a hot breakfast buffet each morning and overnight parking for one vehicle. Less than 15 minutes from San Antonio International Airport and with easy access to major interstates, the DoubleTree is convenient to The Alamo, Riverwalk, and surrounding Texas military facilities. Catch a flick on your room's HDTV, indulge in a spread of in-room boutique bath products, or snooze on your Select Comfort bed?your space is packed with the perfect perks for a brief retreat. Head to the Riverwalk to take advantage of your River Barge passes?the guided tour meanders beneath blankets of Spanish moss as it cruises along San Antonio River. Later, grab a bite from one of the area's spicy taquerias. "'Remember the Alamo' three million tourists a year cry as they stampede ol' San Antone's central mission, site of the infamous battle/massacre," says Lonely Planet. "Drink an aguas frescas (fruit-infused water) at the mercado (marketplace) and then hear country music at an old country store Willie Nelson helped establish ? here you can fiesta one day and rodeo the next." While you can't tackle the entire landscape, an San Antonio Escape provides enough entertainment to cover a lot of ground.

Scottsdale, AZ: $99 for AAA Four Diamond Resort at Radisson Fort McDowell Resort ($195 Value)

Diamonds in the dunes? They really do exist. Case in point: the Radisson Fort McDowell Resort, a jewel in Arizona's Sonoran Desert. "In the Scottsdale area, you just can't stay any closer to the desert than at this beautiful resort northeast of Fountain Hills," Frommer's says. Native American d?cor reminds guests of its location on Yavapai Nation land, while top-rate amenities helped earn the property AAA Four Diamond status. In the 246 guest rooms, guests can expect complimentary wireless Internet access, flat-screen TVs, and large windows overlooking the mountains, golf course, or the heated outdoor pool. Stay for one night in a Deluxe Room, including two steak and egg breakfasts at Fort McDowell Casino, a 20-percent discount on spa services, and complimentary valet parking ($99). Golfers can tee off on one of the emerald greens at the resort's We-Ko-Pa Golf Club, home of two championship courses, a deluxe practice facility, and a full-service clubhouse; gamblers can win precious treasure of their own playing the slot machines, Keno, bingo, cards, and blackjack at the adjacent Fort McDowell Casino; and adventurers can hit the dusty trails of Camelback Mountain or go kayaking on the Verde River beneath sapphire skies with Fort McDowell Adventures. In addition to a 24-hour fitness center, Amethyst Spa offers a variety of treatments, from a traditional hot stone massage to an Amethyst Facial, which incorporates locally mined gems to restore radiance. In the evening, bold Native American and Mexican flavors reign at Ahnala Restaurant & Lounge, where favorites include the Mexican prawns with a tequila-lime glaze and the seared diver scallops with vanilla-poblano risotto. Just be sure to order a couple of sides, such as the crisp potato pancake or roasted corn mashed potatoes, because at this desert paradise all that glitters really is gold.

Pine, CO: $182 for Colorado Ranch at Lower Lake Ranch ($474 Value)

Some would say that to spare the rod is to spoil the child, but to an avid angler it's akin to torture. Here's a tip: Take a trout-filled trip to Lower Lake Ranch, located just an hour from Denver. Set in the shadow of Pike National Forest, this high-altitude hideaway offers more than 200 acres of sparkling streams, three private lakes, and unmatched mountain views?all of which have long lured fishing and outdoorsy types to the Colorado ranch. In fact, the scenery is so delicious that it's a popular spot for couples to say "I do." Hooked on offering gracious hospitality, Lower Lake's three rustic guest lodges never host more than 40 guests at a time. Escape for a two-night stay for two in a Deluxe ($182) or Premier ($231) room, including one full breakfast for two and a $20 credit for dinner at the lodge, where local and seasonal ingredients add up to an always-changing menu. Perch next to the fireplace with a cup of cocoa in your Premier room, or splash around in the heart-shaped Whirlpool spa or soaking tub. Some Deluxe and Premier rooms have fireplaces, and all feature a king-size pillow-top mattress and private bath. Floundering for fun activities? Never gonna happen at this year-round playground. In addition to the lakes stocked with trophy cutthroat, browns, and rainbow trout, the ranch offers proximity to the rushing waters of the Platte River. Private hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails extend from the property into Staunton State Park; and when the first snow falls, outdoor enthusiasts can go cross-country skiing or ice-fishing on site. Forget carping about your lack of cash, and snag this Escape while it's still on the line.

White Castle, LA: $142 for Louisiana Plantation Resort at Nottoway Plantation and Resort ($283 Value)

The hand-carved mantles and stately oak trees of Nottoway Plantation and Resort harken back to times of both war and peace?in fact, the grand Louisiana estate survived the battering Civil War before being restored to the picturesque sanctuary it is today. Slip into the serenity of this grand plantation when you Escape for a one-night stay for two, Sundays to Thursdays ($142) or Fridays and Saturdays ($174), in a king or double-queen cottage room with an included breakfast for two at the property's Creole-inspired restaurant. Located in White Castle, Louisiana, the Nottoway lies between Baton Rouge and New Orleans. Completed in 1859, Nottoway boasts 53,000 square feet of Greek Revival and Italianate-style architecture sprinkled with hand-carved Corinthian columns and 19th-century crystal chandeliers. Pop open your included bottle of bubbly and take in the ambiance of your tastefully appointed room, which offers modern amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. Later, explore the historic mansion with your included guided tour for two. "Nottoway is everything you want in a dazzling Old South mansion. Dating from 1858, it's the largest existing plantation house in the South, a mammoth structure with 64 rooms and pillars to rival the White House's," says Frommer's. For those looking to hit the history of the surrounding area, your stay includes two passes to the Rural Life Museum?one of the "Top 10 Outdoor Museums in the World," according to the British Museum. Later, indulge in a gourmet meal from The Mansion Restaurant at Nottoway with your included $40 dining credit. Located on the ground floor of the mansion's magnificent rotunda, the restaurant features stunning views of century-old oak trees. It serves dishes like the Cajun 3-Step, a chicken-and-sausage jambalya with fried Gulf shrimp and crawfish ?touff?e, in a beautifully restored turn-of-the-century dining room. After dinner, take a stroll around Nottoway's enchanting grounds, sparkling throughout with lighted foliage and bask in the glow of a truly breathtaking Southern plantation experience.

Cumberland Gap, TN: $99 for Appalachian Mountain B&B at The Historic Olde Mill Inn Bed & Breakfast ($198 Value)

When the pace of urban living starts wearing you down, it's time to get away from the grind and ascend to new peaks. Lace up your boots and reconnect with nature on an Escape to The Historic Olde Mill Inn Bed & Breakfast in Cumberland Gap, Tennessee. Grab your hiking partner and ramble away for a two-night stay, Sundays to Thursdays, in a queen ($99) or king ($140) room; or, opt for a two-night stay in a queen room on Fridays and Saturdays ($115). Escapees will also have a 20-percent discount for Old Town Grill in Tazewell and a ten-percent discount on "Special Touch" packages. Staying in the oldest building in Cumberland Gap?once a working mill?doesn't mean a retreat from creature comforts. Unwind in a room that effortlessly combines antique furnishings with the height of modern amenities, including a fireplace, plasma TV, private bathroom, plush robes, a pillow-top mattress, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Once you finally roll out of your comfortable bed, enjoy a hearty breakfast with options like eggs, bacon, fresh fruit, croissants, and homemade scones. The zenith of this Escape is the inn's unmatched natural setting only 58 miles from Knoxville. Walk the grounds and watch the creek rushing by, hear the water mill wheel turn, sit on the bridge and feed the trout, or take in views of the famous Pinnacle Overlook. Pack your complimentary hiking map and stretch your legs at the nearby 24,000-acre Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, where roughly 85 miles of hiking trails meander through deciduous forest; explore the Gap Cave; and visit the historic Hensley Settlement for a glimpse of pioneer life. You'll find yourself at the pinnacle of peace and beauty on an Escape to Cumberland Gap.

Bethesda, MD: $95 for Greater DC Boutique Hotel at Bethesda Court Hotel ($208 Value)

Overnight invites to the White House are hard to come by, so we've arranged a hassle-free getaway that's still fit for the first family. The Bethesda Court Hotel is a quiet, European-inspired retreat just minutes outside Washington, DC. And on this Escape, you can cast your vote for a one-night stay for up to four people, Thursdays through Sundays ($95). Your package includes continental breakfast, chocolates, bottled water, parking, in-room Wi-Fi, and late 2 p.m. checkout. Named one of the Top Five Washington DC Hotel Values by USA Today, Bethesda Court offers affordable, stately suites. Surround yourself with 18th-century-style d?cor and upscale touches like marble-floored baths and down comforters. You'll also enjoy the convenience of Wi-Fi and cable TV. Here you're at liberty to set your own pace. Start the day with an included continental breakfast. Then, stroll the hotel's lush, Old English garden, or work out in the state-of-the-art fitness center. Let your top advisors lead you to ZIN Hair + Colour salon or Tips to Toes nail studio for positively presidential pampering. No need for Air Force One when it's sightseeing time: Park your car and let the hotel's limos escort you anywhere within a two-mile radius. The Bethesda Court is two blocks from the Metro, which shuttles you straight into downtown Washington, DC. Forget diplomacy?on this Escape, you do exactly what you desire. Explore exquisite masterpieces at the National Gallery of Art, or learn secrets of espionage at the International Spy Museum. The musically inclined can catch a show at The Kennedy Center or the Strathmore. Must-sees like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial are also just minutes away. Whatever you elect to do, your late 2 p.m. checkout lets you recoup. Call your constituents and tell them not to wait up: This is your chance to steal away for a high-priority getaway.

Jefferson City, MO: $59 for Missouri Hotel at Capitol Plaza Hotel Jefferson City ($119 Value)

There's a saying about the Show Me State and U.S. politics: As Missouri goes, so goes the election. We'll stay out of that debate, but this bell-weather beauty is sure to get your vote for the perfect place to experience a little executive treatment when you Escape to the Capitol Plaza Hotel Jefferson City in Missouri's capital city. Cast your ballot for a one-night stay for two in a standard room ($59) with a king or two double beds. Or make your comfort campaign's headquarters in a two-room suite ($69). Regardless of which option you choose, you have the right to enjoy an included breakfast for two. This AAA Three Diamond-rated and Mobile Three Star hotel in the heart of Jefferson City is two blocks from the State Capitol Complex, less than two miles from the Jefferson City Memorial Airport, and near the stores of the Capital Mall or the Crossings?meaning the only gridlock you'll experience will be the kind depicted on the evening news via your in-room TV, through a complimentary issue of USA Today in the lobby, or on your favorite blog thanks to free Wi-Fi. Flex your political muscle in the hotel's fitness center and indoor pool before heading out to meet the city's public. Shake hands with a host of dining options just a stone's throw away: The Park Place restaurant offers a range of dining experiences from family meals to romantic dinners for two, and the Fountain Court Lounge lets you loosen your tie with a more casual experience and an extensive wine list. Outside, pose for the perfect photo-op along Katy Trail?the country's largest "rails-to-trail" project along 237 miles of farms and towns that's ideal for hiking and biking. Or, place yourself next to the seat of power at the Governor's Mansion. Built in 1871 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this home's intricate slate-tile roof and a hand-carved black walnut bannister in the Great Hall is sure to earn your seal of approval. Treat yourself to a getaway that can deliver; this week's Escape to the Capitol Plaza Hotel is the perfect candidate.

Kansas City, MO: $99 for Downtown KC Hotel & Spa at Q Hotel + Spa ($188 Value)

Mom always said you couldn't have your cake and eat it too. How wrong she was. Get a one-night stay for two in a Super-Inclusive Room (best available, plus free breakfast, shuttle, gym passes, and more) at the Q Hotel + Spa, named best hotel in Kansas City by The Pitch magazine. Enjoy the privileged life?$30 toward a massage, 25-percent discount on your entire bill at Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar, and complimentary drinks during the nightly manager's reception from 5 to 7 p.m. in the lobby bar?as you whip together the delectable offerings of Kansas City's first green hotel ($99). Let your muscles melt as the talented therapists at the Q Spa knead your body into total relaxation. If you're not quite ready to peel back the blankets of your Turkish bedding, add some zest to the night with complimentary drinks in the hotel's lobby bar during happy hour. Try a pale ale or wheat beer from Boulevard Brewery Co., or a different kind of nightcap with the The Roasterie's organic Guatemalan coffee beans for a cup of espresso. This modern hotel is just steps away from everything Kansas City has to offer. Located in the historic Westport district, Q makes it easy to put a sugary glaze on your night in what is considered to be the area's original entertainment district. Shed some inhibitions with a 25-percent discount on your entire bill at Ernie Biggs Dueling Piano Bar, or dip into the extensive Bourbon and Scotch selection at nearby Harry's Bar & Tables. Blend with the locals at Tivoli Cinemas, a Westport location for more than 25 years, which screens independent flicks, foreign films, and documentaries. With this Escape, you can stay up late and rise with the sun. You can dig into some food and cool off with a drink. You can have your cake and eat it too. Told ya so, Mom.

Niagara Falls, NY: $109 for Tudor-Style Manor + Wine at The Red Coach Inn ($219 Value)

Nothing colors your romance better than an Escape to see Niagara Falls set against a backdrop of breathtaking fall foliage. Get ready to paint a picture that will last a lifetime with a one- ($109) or two-night ($199) stay at The Red Coach Inn?a Tudor-style manor overlooking the Falls' upper rapids. Built in 1923 and modeled after England's Bell Inn, the AAA Three Diamond inn has been featured in Fortune magazine, The New York Times, and The Today Show. You'll find that comfort is just the right shade in your luxurious guest room, no two of which are alike. Choose one with period furniture and a cozy sitting area, or go for a fireplace suite in winter months. For a romantic night, turn up your Bose-stereo system and slip into the jetted tub. In spring, opt for a view of the rapids so you can throw open the windows and let the music of the falls sing you to sleep. Draw up the perfect morning with daily included breakfast for two. You'll savor dishes like eggs Oscar and strawberry-stuffed French toast, with savory sides like pan-fried potatoes or sweeter options like Red Coach granola. Later, sketch out some time to visit Arrowhead Spring Vineyards for an included wine tasting with two souvenir glasses. The vineyard boasts an award-winning collection, including a 2007 Vidal Blanc ice wine that earned a coveted 92-point score from Wine Spectator. Explore the area's hit attractions, many within walking distance of the inn. Around the corner, take an elevator to the deck of the Niagara Falls Observation Tower for breathtaking views of the American falls, or purchase tickets to sail on the Maid of the Mist below. Add a little color to your next getaway and find yourself awash in wonder.

Dorset, VT: $245 for Historic New England Inn at Dorset Inn ($490 Value)

If you've turned emerald with envy watching friends and family get away for days of play while you're left to toil at home, Escape to the picturesque town of Dorset, Vermont??ranked among New England's best small towns by Boston magazine?for a trip that'll have you saving green... rather than seeing it. Our sage advice? Hole up for two nights in a Standard Room, Sundays through Thursdays ($210) or Fridays and Saturdays ($245) at The Dorset Inn. Or, opt for a Sunday-through-Thursday stay in a Deluxe Fireplace Suite ($355). Either way, old-world furniture combined with country d?cor and working fireplaces lend a colonial charm to the place. Founded in 1796, The Green Mountain State's oldest continually operating inn is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was Voted third Best Historic Inn byYankee magazine and named Inn of the Month by Country Living in 2007. Start your day with an included country breakfast for two in the sunny garden room. Get a taste of Vermont's local products with dishes featuring Vermont smoked meats, maple syrup, and seasonal fruits?enough to awaken even the most jaded of travelers. Wander into the village, just a few paces from the inn's front porch, where immaculate, white clapboard homes line the streets and gorgeous arches grace the village green. Check out the Dorset Historical Society or pick up locally made souvenirs from H.N. Williams Store, serving the town since 1840. Any time of year, Escapees will enjoy a discount book of coupons for nearby Manchester Designer Outlets. Escape during Vermont's postcard-perfect winter and hit the snowy slopes at Stratton. Bromley Mountain is also nearby, and an avalanche of history awaits at Hildene?Robert Todd Lincoln's historic estate. Of course, nothing conjures up a traditional New England snow scene like an ice skating session at Riley Rink at Hunter Park. If the walls of this 200-year-old inn could talk, they would tell you to slowly sip the complimentary afternoon refreshments before you treat yourself to a classic bistro dinner at the inn's restaurant?recently recognized as one of America's Best Restaurants for Wine Lovers by Wine Spectator. For the traditional New England hospitality, colonial gentility, and savings you crave, consider this Escape your green light.

Chagrin Falls, OH: $139 for Tudor-Style Inn at The Club at Hillbrook: ($420 Value)

You need not be a cartoon princess to frolic among the quaint tranquility and woodland creatures of Ohio's scenic Chagrin Valley, but after this rejuvenating Escape, there's a good chance you'll be feeling quite animated. Serenade your own charming prince during a one-night stay for two at The Club at Hillbrook ($139). Even a wis

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