If you’re among the 43% of Americans who say they’ll spend their tax refund on travel, you might as well book a trip that gives you the best bang for your hard-earned buck. For a peaceful and affordable getaway, there are several destinations that offer great deals and few crowds until—and for some places, well beyond—Memorial Day weekend.
Whether you choose to hop a ferry to Block Island or Martha’s Vineyard, bike between North Fork vineyards and pristine beaches or pitch a tent on a secluded lake, plan a budget-friendly shoulder season escape with the help of these five guides.
Block Island
For two nights at the Blue Dory Inn: $270 now vs. $650 later
North Fork
For one night at the Blue Iris Inn: $245 now vs. $590 later
Martha’s Vineyard
For one night at The Madison Inn: $89 now vs. $289 later
Catskills
For one night at The Graham & Co: $99 now vs. $185 later
17 Camp Sites
For unlimited nights from $0 with campsites all to yourself now vs. crowds and RVs later
Photos: Don & Suzan Weller, ReefTECK, Block Island Tourism Council, Kate’s Lazy Meadow, Suzanne Russo, Bruce Tuten
The co-founder and editor-at-large at offMetro, Lauren is a sustainable travel specialist and freelance journalist with frequent bylines in National Geographic, Bicycling Magazine and Shape. Follow Lauren’s adventures at @laurenmati.
I would add Newport, RI to that list. You can get to Newport from NYC by taking Amtrak to Providence – the transferring to a bus. The Newport hostel has detailed directions. One of my close friends went to college in Rhode Island, and reports that it’s better in shoulder season when the crowds are smaller.
Great tip, thanks! Any particular hotels you recommend?