Philadelphia - September 09, 2008

Time to Get Away

Local Getaways from Philly

Damn. You worked straight through summer, and fall’s approaching. Take a personal day, load the trunk, and head to a place that’s close by but feels miles away from Brotherly Love.

Turn Up the Kitsch
The Chelsea — an adorable beachside hotel with reasonable rates and great luxury suites — will take you back to the ’50s heyday of Atlantic City, when kitsch met sleek. Hit the 5th Floor lounge for a cocktail and a swim. Remember, no trip to AC is complete without a delicious meal at Knife & Fork Inn, which feels like a Prohibition-era saloon.

Turn It Up More
Take your lover to an Airstream trailer at the StarLux Hotel in Wildwood. The golden double bed is perfect for couples who are joined at the hip — or just want to be. Another bonus? A rocking wet bar.

Blow Off Steam with Overworked Pals
Back in Atlantic City, The Water Club parties like there’s no tomorrow. Drink at the outdoor pools while the weather is warm and at three indoor pools and jacuzzis when it gets gray. Bring your messing crew: With two bedrooms, three beds, and space for ten, the Viceroy Suite is perfect for overindulging.

Load the Wagon with the Wife and Kids
Take the brood to Cape May if the nanny disappears before your getaway. Congress Hall fits your needs with a pool right by a fully stocked bar. (Screaming kids? Who hears ’em?) The private beach is manned by locals; the Caesar salad shows up chaise-side.

Chill Out
A package deal at The Lodge at Woodloch is the ultimate relaxation: gourmet meals, beautifully manicured grounds, and activities you won’t mind joining. You’ll feel way farther than three hours north of the Schuylkill.

Which is the whole point.