Take a cue from Paul Revere this fall: Ride outta town screaming about freedom. Take one (day) by land or two (days) by sea.

By Land: A Drive up to Portland
A quick 100 miles up the coast, Portland’s an artistic hub and foodie playground. Make your way up Congress Street for a tour of contemporary art galleries and a peek at the Maine College of Art alumni exhibition (522 Congress Street, Portland, Maine; 207-879-5742 ext. 229). Then swing down to the Old Port for a leisurely lunch at the airy, brick-lined Vignola (10 Dana Street, Portland, Maine; 207-772-1330); go for a glass of vermentino and a plate of Bang’s Island pan-roasted mussels for the full effect.

Cruise back via Route 1 to take in the fall foliage (we hear it’s hitting early this year) or catch a wink at the stately Kennebunkport Inn (1 Dock Square, Kennebunkport, Maine; 207-967-2661).

By Sea: Ferry to Nantucket
Patience is a virtue and rewards come to those who wait out summer crowds. Now is the island’s finest hour, so take full advantage with a deal at the White Elephant (50 Easton Street, Nantucket, Mass.; 508-228-2500); scope out their spanking new spa and the Chef & Shop series this fall.

Bike the empty roads and find your way to Bartlett’s Farm (33 Bartlett Farm Road, Nantucket, Mass.; 508-228-9403) for pressed panini. On your way back, hit Cisco Brewers (5 Bartlett Farm Road, Nantucket, Mass.; 508-325-5929) for a tour of their new digs. Then belly up to the bar at Straight Wharf Restaurant (6 Harbor Square, Nantucket, Mass.; 508-228-4499; open till October 14) and nibble on fresh bluefish paté.

You’ve freed your mind. The rest will follow.