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.

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.

Reno, NV: $99 for Reno Hotel + Casino at Siena ($198 Value)

John C. Fr?mont was the first American to see the Sierra Nevada Mountains, but he was about 200 years too early to experience the kind of luxury that you'll encounter when you make camp at the Siena?a completely renovated hotel, spa, and casino in Reno, Nevada, and the city's only four-star riverfront property. Escape for a two-night stay for two in either a standard or deluxe room ($99). With sleek flat-screen TVs, expansive bathrooms, and amply dressed queen-size beds, you won't be roughing it on this expedition. You can, however, open your window and enjoy the same breathtaking mountain and river views that ol' Fr?mont did so many years ago. Unwind in the rooftop hot tub, then navigate your way to The Spa at Siena, where you can purchase soothing facials, massages, body wraps, and sauna treatments at a 25-percent discount. Later, continue to unwind inside your room with the bottle of wine included in your Siena tote bag. And what's an adventure without a little risk? Indulge in slots, roulette, baccarat, and poker at the casino??with the majestic Truckee flowing outside, you can literally bet it all on the river. Outside the hotel's borders, journey next door to the Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts and the National Auto Museum, or walk ten minutes to downtown Reno. You might want to don your coon-skin cap or other cold-weather gear before you chart the nearby ski slopes or outfit yourself with skates and brave the ice on Reno's outdoor rink. Back at the property, satisfy that roaming hunger with a visit to da Vinci for seafood and steaks in a fine-dining atmosphere. More adventurous appetites can explore international dining options with frontier flare, like the wide-eyed wonder of exhibition wok cooking at Sushi Saga. Or, let a view of the water be your dinner companion at the Siena's own River View Cafe, where you can nosh on traditional fare like grilled-to-order burgers and fresh-cut fries. Go ahead and rope in this Escape??because like our friend Fr?mont, this vacation is about to be history.

Colorado Springs, CO: $104 for Colorado Resort at Cheyenne Mountain Resort ($189 Value)

When Katherine Lee Bates traveled to Colorado Springs and laid eyes on the majestic Pikes Peak, she was inspired to pen "America the Beautiful." The scenery was that amazing. Escape to the area with a trip to the Cheyenne Mountain Resort, a 217-acre natural wonderland set amid the Rockies. Stay for one ($104) or two ($197) nights in a standard room, with an upgrade to the next available room type, a daily $10 food-and-beverage credit, late 2 p.m. checkout, and included resort fee. Spacious accommodations are appointed with colorful d?cor, a balcony or patio, and thoughtful touches like Gilchrist & Soames toiletries, iPod docks, and free wireless Internet. The most stunning amenities, however, await outside your door. Besides the living-postcard skylines, the resort boasts a 35-acre lake, indoor tennis courts, indoor pool, and state-of-the-art fitness center. A short drive away, discover why geological showcase and public park Garden of the Gods lives up to its name, wander the Manitou Cliff Dwellings built 700 years ago by the Anasazi people, or stroll the twinkling, crystal-filled subterranean dreamscape known as the Cave of the Winds. Then, marvel at Pikes Peak, the second most visited mountain in the world (and the most popular in North America). If you're feeling ambitious, take a hike up the Barr Trail, where the Pikes Peak Marathon is held each summer?in 12 miles, you'll climb an altitude of 7,800 feet. Or, take a more relaxed trip up the mountain on the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the highest train in the country. When you've worked up an appetite, head back to the resort and settle in at the wood-beamed Mountain View Restaurant. Start with lemony asparagus bisque dolloped with basil pesto or blackened shrimp perched atop rich cheddar grits. Then, learn why Colorado is famous for its meats over locally raised bison short ribs rubbed with ancho chilies and espresso or the Thai-barbecue-style rack of lamb. Bates never ate here, but if she had, she probably would have added a line about food right after mentioning the "purple mountain majesties."

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.

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.

Newport, RI: $175 for Newport B&B + Wine at Newport Bed & Breakfast Inns: ($480 Value)

The summer home of presidents Eisenhower and Kennedy, the storied beach town of Newport, Rhode Island, is anything but dead come fall and winter. It may be a nip chillier, but the beaches are beautiful (especially with a light dusting of snow), and the Newport Mansions are always a sight to behold. There's even a week-long festival each February featuring concerts, cook-offs, and more. Discover the other side of this classic New England getaway town with an Escape to one of three Newport Bed & Breakfast Inns. You'll get a two-night stay for two in a Deluxe Room, Sundays through Thursdays ($155) or Fridays and Saturdays ($175) at the Black Duck Inn, the Blue Jewel Guest House, or the Newport Blues Inn. You'll also enjoy a daily breakfast for two, as well as chocolates and a bottle of wine upon arrival. For an additional $40 per night, you'll have the option of upgrading to a room with a Jacuzzi tub, based on availability. The three-room Blue Jewel is exactly that, a baby-blue 1893 Victorian appointed with stained glass windows and antique furnishings. The Black Duck is the most modern of the three, featuring seven rooms and suites decorated in contemporary furnishings with an eye on the past. The restored Newport Blues Inn comprises 12 rooms, each with hardwood floors and elegant furnishings. Rooms at all three inns are appointed with designer linens, private bathrooms (some with Jacuzzi tubs), and flat-screen TVs. Known as the Sailing Capital of the World, Newport abounds with boats, even in the cooler months. Take a stroll down by the water to scope out the skiffs. Head to the Newport Mansions for a peek at 11 historic homes, which span from Colonial times to the Gilded Age and feature beautifully landscaped lawns, tours, and a look back at Newport's past. Time for a hearty meal. Head for Newport Blues Cafe??named the top entertainment in town for ten years and counting by Newport Life Magazine. Savor a pulled-pork sandwich, a cup of clam chowder, and a generous slice of key lime pie, all to the soundtrack of world-class blues and jazz. For a more refined time on the town, tuck into native lobster with coconut rice, piquillo peppers, and a hint of curry at Tallulah on Thames, a swanky two-year-old restaurant that focuses on locally sourced, seasonal dishes. 'Tis the season indeed.

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.

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.

Chicago, IL: $129 for Gold Coast Hotel at The Sutton Place Hotel ($219 Value)

Get the gilt without the guilt: You're on an excursion into Chicago's Gold Coast with an Escape to The Sutton Place Hotel at the north end of Chicago's Magic Mile. Fourteen-karat accommodations in the form of your Junior Suite feature robes, slippers, and Gilchrist & Soames toiletries and are outfitted with pillow-top mattresses and deep soaking tubs. Precious metals aside, you'll find an impressive collection of original Robert Mapplethorpe floral photographs on the walls throughout this hotel?true nuggets of modern art history to behold again and again. Awaken from golden slumbers to head downstairs for breakfast at The Whiskey Bar & Grill or order in room service. Weekend brunches include an "internationally inspired" Bloody Mary selection and a special mimosa and Bellini bar. The Sutton Place, a Thompson Hotel, is steps from the Mag Mile and some of the finest dining Chi-Town has to offer. You'd be anything but a fool to rush into Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, where you can sip on cocktails and cut into some of the city's finest prime. Be sure to bring your plastic for one-of-a-kind shopping at Oak Street boutiques. With the names of the world's most cutting edge designers at your fingertips, you'll feel like you're gliding along in a flaxen fantasy that serious shopaholics have only dreamt of. More of a neighborhood than a tourist experience, the Gold Coast provides an intimate view of the city many visitors don't get. "New mansions continue to spring up alongside the grand residences built by Chicago's 19th-century elite," says Explore Chicago of the neighborhood. "From hotel-magnate Potter Palmer's castle-like mansion to the Astor Street Historical District's beautiful brownstones, the architectural riches are boundless." Consider this Escape a lesson in urban beachcombing?you never know what treasures might wash ashore during your stay along the Gold Coast.

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.

Rockaway Beach, OR: $99 for Oregon Coast Motel at Sea Haven Motel ($178 Value)

Framed by a seven-mile stretch of Oregon coast, the breezy community of Rockaway Beach sways to the sound of rolling tides and native seabirds. Get into a Pacific Northwest groove with an Escape to one of Fodor's top-rated family beach destinations: the Sea Haven Motel and Guest House, a 2012 TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence Award-winning motel. Put a two-night stay for two, Sundays through Thursdays ($99) or Fridays and Saturdays ($109), in a kitchenette unit on your dance card. Or, enjoy the vibe of a West Coast setting with your entire family during a two-night stay for up to 12 guests in the motel's six-bedroom guest house, Sundays to Thursdays ($279) or Fridays and Saturdays ($389), or during a three-night stay for up to 12 guests in the guest house, Sundays through Thursdays ($419). No matter which option you choose, your cozy accommodations include access to the property's gas grills, crab cookers, picnic tables, and fire pits. Roughly 250 steps from the shoreline, your lodging flows with warm d?cor, LDC TVs, Wi-Fi, and a fully equipped kitchen?perfect for a quaint breakfast or home-cooked family feast. Soak up all this natural coastline has to offer with kayaking, crabbing, or clamming?whatever floats your boat. Rockaway Beach has attracted a steady stream of visitors since the 1920s, when a small steam train carried eager passengers to the center of the coastal town. Ideal for beach combing and catching sunsets behind the enchanting Twin Rocks, the city is also home to a slew of unique shops and restaurants. Check out the quirky antiques of Trash & Treasures or help yourself to a steamy bowl of creamy clam chowder or crispy fish and chips from The Whale Spout. Float into this charming getaway to the Oregon coast?Rockaway Beach will have you rockin' and rollin' to the tune of gorgeous scenery and family-friendly outdoor fun.

Chapel Hill, NC: $57 for Downtown Chapel Hill Hotel at Chapel Hill University Inn ($95 Value)

Much like your March Madness bracket, a weekend away ought to include an all-star lineup: comfortable accommodations, delicious food, and a slew of events. Don't block another opportunity to Escape: Snag a one-night stay for up to four guests in a standard room at Chapel Hill University Inn for $57. You're in for a terrific time-out at this sports-themed hotel near the heart of downtown Chapel Hill and Franklin Street. Combining traditional Southern hospitality with modern amenities, this pet-friendly inn features free local shuttle service, complimentary wireless Internet access, cable TV with premium channels, and a lobby full of Tar Heels memorabilia. Kick off your day with an a.m. training session at the on-site fitness center, or enjoy free access to a yoga or aerobics class at the nearby Kinetix Health Club. Afterward, you'll be ready to tackle a behemoth brunch of sweet tea, buttermilk biscuits, and juicy pork tenderloin from Franklin Street's Sunrise Biscuit Kitchen. Take yours to go for a country-style picnic in the 800-acre North Carolina Botanical Garden or the Johnston Mill Nature Preserve. On game days, this quiet college town comes alive with Tar Heels pride?scrimmage for a seat in Smith Center, where spectators cheer on the Tar Heels basketball team. History buffs can get their fill at The Carolina Basketball Museum or Kenan's Hall of Honor, while motorsports enthusiasts will want to check out the Occoneechee Speedway Trail. Just leave plenty of time for a touchdown at the inn's Time-Out Sports Bar, serving Southern-style smoked ribs and the famous chicken cheddar biscuits featured on Travel Channel's Adam Richman's Best Sandwich in America, alongside 17 HDTVs. You're set up for an easy 3-pointer with this Escape.

Nantucket, MA: $205 for Nantucket Inn at Cliff Lodge ($365 Value)

The utmost in hospitality amid the simple elegance of Nantucket: That's exactly what you'll get with this week's Escape to the Cliff Lodge, offering a two-night stay for two in a double ($205), queen ($245), or king ($295) guest room. Revel in the luxury of the island in this 1771 mansion. A former whaling master's house, the Cliff Lodge is bound by the cobblestone streets of downtown to the south and Nantucket Harbor's serene beaches to the north and east. "Once the whaling capital of the world, with the wealth and sophistication to prove it," says Frommer's, "Nantucket hugs a yacht-filled harbor and bursts with sophisticated shops, quaint inns, cobblestone streets, historic sites, and pristine beaches." Treasure the trappings of the good life throughout your stay. Wake each morning to an included continental breakfast for two, with scones and other confections baked by the resident pastry chef. If your included welcome beverage leaves you thirsting for more, stick around for wine and cheese served every Friday. Late noon checkout ensures you're never rushed, even on the way home. After a day of sailing or strolling along the island's famous beaches, walk a few short blocks into historic downtown. Those with caviar tastes will find a wealth of decadent dining options and top-notch boutiques. Here, shipping magnates skip the suit-and-tie getup, opting for the signature Nantucket Reds. Pick up a pair of your own at Murray's Toggery Shop. You don't need a trust fund to cash in on this Escape to Nantucket. The Cliff Lodge serves up high-class accommodations on a silver platter, no matter your net worth.

Essex Junction, VT: $399 for Culinary Resort + Balloon Ride at The Essex ($730 Value)

Your mind and body need a few days off, so why not take your taste buds on a trip too? You can indulge in an unrivaled culinary experience?not to mention a tethered hot-air balloon ride?with this Escape to The Essex near Burlington, where dining options are nearly limitless. On this sweet Vermont vacation, you and a guest will spend two nights in a Fireplace Room, Fridays and Saturdays from December 7 to 22, 2012, or January 11 to 12, 2013 ($399). Along with your stay, you'll receive a tethered hot-air balloon ride, Saturday buffet breakfast, and Sunday brunch for two. The Essex is the Burlington area's only AAA Four-Diamond resort. This recently renovated property is just minutes from the town's cultural scene and a short drive from some of the best skiing in the country. Each room features a flat-panel HD television, 300-thread-count linens, and an iHome speaker system. The Fireplace Room also features a sitting area complete with a decorative fireplace. Pamper your palate at any of the on-site restaurants. Amuse is actually two restaurants in one. You can purchase a premium Chef's Table experience?an array of courses specially prepared for you by the restaurant's acclaimed chefs?or a meal from the Seasonal Menu featuring the freshest local ingredients. Continue the tasty tour with a stop at The Tavern, which serves up traditional pub fare and locally raised, grass-fed beef. Even when your stomach's full, the resort dishes out plenty of other adventures. For starters, you'll float off the ground with an included tethered hot-air balloon ride for two. A long day outdoors calls for a little pampering at the on-site spa. This full-service facility offers treatments ranging from massages and body scrubs to facials and manicures. When you're hungry for a hearty vacation, this Escape to The Essex will surely hit the spot.

Stateline, NV: $49.49 for Lake Tahoe Resort at The Ridge Tahoe ($101.50 Value)

The snow has already started to fall in Tahoe and it's not going to slow down?the area is expecting an epic winter. Surrounded by not just one, but more than 15 ski resorts (the largest concentration in the US), Lake Tahoe is a winter-sports haven for West Coasters. Perched above Lake Tahoe, The Ridge Tahoe boasts 11 acres and ski-in, ski-out access via its new Skier Express to the Stagecoach lift at Heavenly Mountain, which boasts the most vertical feet of any West Coast ski spot. "Views, views, views of Lake Tahoe's hallowed blue waters are what Heavenly is known for," says Sunset. "Well, that, and some of the best terrain in the Sierra. This sprawling South Lake resort boasts 29 lifts and about 100 trails, from green-circle groomers to epic experts-only chutes." And downhill skiing isn't the only option: Heavenly offers tubing and ski biking, and other winter sports?sledding, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and sleigh rides?can be found nearby. Rooms at The Ridge Tahoe are outfitted with king-size beds and a TV with VCR/DVD, and on-site amenities include a health club, ski shop, racquetball courts, indoor swimming pool, and Jacuzzis?just to name a few. The Elevation Spa offers a variety of massages and treatments, some of which give a nod to its location?the Leg Revitalizer offers relief after a day on the slopes and the Heavenly Signature Facial helps troubled skin adjust to the altitude. There is also a restaurant, deli, marketplace, movie theater, and an arcade room for the younger set. A few miles away (via a complimentary shuttle service, of course), sit the oh-so-tempting casinos and nightclubs of Stateline or the art galleries and laid-back pubs of South Lake Tahoe.

Calistoga, CA: $199 for Napa Valley Inn at The Wine Way Inn ($578 Value)

An open weekend poses the same dilemma as an open fridge: you can never decide what you want for vacation. Sample a smorgasbord of spirits and sensuality at one of two Napa Valley B&Bs that have even celebrity chefs from major food channels lining up for more in Calistoga, California. Help yourself to a two-night stay for two in the Napa Room or Rutherford Room at The Wine Way Inn from November 5, 2012 through March 31, 2013, Sundays through Thursdays ($199) or Fridays and Saturdays ($299). The cozy fireplace, redwood deck, and garden in view of Mount St. Helena at Calistoga's oldest bed and breakfast will whet your appetite for Napa Valley's historic beauty. Or, you can pile on the perks in the Howell Room or the Palisades Room at The Craftsman Inn, Sundays through Thursdays ($299) or Fridays and Saturdays ($449), and bask in the glow of L'Occitane amenities, soft spa robes, and flat-screen TVs. Eyes and mouths open wide to a complimentary multi-course breakfast each morning with offerings from Gillian Kite's Inn Food Cookbook like poached pears and pumpkin pie scones, sausage plaits, quiche, applewood-smoked bacon, and fresh wild morel omelettes with Parmesan cheese and truffle oil. Order relaxation spa la carte from Lavender Hill with your $50 gift certificate good toward Swedish massages, reflexology, acupressure, couples baths, foot rubs, and seasonal pumpkin-spice salt glows. Local flavors fill your plate in the afternoon with coupons for 15 percent off wood-fired, fresh Italian pizza or a free appetizer at Boskos. Napa Valley is wine-drinker's utopia, so uncork a cornucopia of vintages with two-for-one tasting tours at select wineries including Rios Brothers, Summers, August Briggs, Bennett Lane Winery, and Charbay. As the sun sets, loosen your belt?from Jole's farm-to-table seasonal fare to the chic-casual eating at Solage, you'll find dining at all of Calistoga's fine restaurants to be like biting off more than you can chew. With a room for less in the warm belly of Napa Valley, you won't feel guilty about making another trip to this B&B's buffet of wholesome food, wines, and winsome country scenery.

Sutter Creek, CA: $175 for Gold Country Hotel at The American Exchange Hotel ($330 Value)

For a place that's commonly marked by a slower pace than its neighboring Northern California cities of San Francisco and Sacramento, Gold Country has found itself in the midst of the action. Earlier this year, the historic enclave of quiet towns was named one of Lonely Planet's Top 10 US Travel Destinations for 2012. But don't expect this distinction to suddenly line the area's sun-streaked streets or candy-striped buildings with an inclusive velvet rope. When you Escape for two nights to The American Exchange Hotel in Sutter Creek, you'll find a down-home atmosphere that's far from being too done up. Stay for two nights in a a third-floor room with a shared bathroom ($150) or a second-floor room with a private bathroom ($175). Although you'll have to share the attention with a hotel that's rooted in the allure of the Gold Rush, a complimentary bottle of wine, a flat-screen TV, and wireless Internet access are all yours. At dinnertime, pull up a chair at the hotel's Bellotti's Restaurant with your $60 credit. Start with spicy mussels in a tomato garlic broth and then cut into pan-seared chicken Marsala served with saut?ed mushrooms and smoked bacon or the spinach rigatoni stuffed with artichoke and feta cheese. In the morning, step out the door and stroll along Main Street, where the 19th-century buildings and cozy storefronts will keep you satisfied until you try breakfast at Thomi's Cafe. Later, do a few stretches before beginning the labyrinth tour through century-old rock formations at Black Chasm Cavern, and then reward yourself with a wine tasting at Sierra Ridge Winery. Gold Country's stature is on the rise, and this Escape puts you in the inner circle.

Portland, OR: $229 for Riverfront Hotel at River's Edge Hotel & Spa ($398 Value)

It's no surprise that Popular Science named Portland, Oregon, America's greenest city. From the Willamette River, which winds its way through town, to the flourishing network of hiking and biking trails that crisscross the region, to the trend-setting farm-to-fork food scene, Rose City is indeed green. And the burgeoning South Waterfront District boasts a bit of everything: restaurants, mixed-use retail, parks, Green Buildings, and more. It's also home to the River's Edge Hotel & Spa, a 99-room luxury boutique hotel that boasts a bit of a green thumb itself. Get a two-night stay for two in a Hillside King or Hillside Double King at this LEED-certified property ($229). You'll also get daily breakfast for two, a $40 food-and-beverage credit at the on-site Aquariva, complimentary Wi-Fi, and daily parking. Each 343-square foot Hillside Room is drenched in natural sunlight and appointed with a Sealy Posturepedic mattress draped in luxury linens, an MP3 hookup, and contemporary furnishings, including a couple of lounge chairs, an ottoman, and a work desk. Just outside the hotel, the South Waterfront District has come to life over the last couple of years thanks to an influx of locally owned businesses. Pop into the bustling Daily Cafe for a cup of Stumptown joe and a seasonally inspired organic lunch. Check out the latest fashions at Stylefront, then stroll the South Waterfront Greenway, which follows the river and offers several benches for walkers to take it all in. Back at the hotel, tuck into dinner at Aquariva. Overlooking the river, this Northwest-minded restaurant dishes up a well-edited menu of Italian-inspired dishes and a hefty selection of wine. Start with the house-made salumi board, move on to pappardelle pasta with braised short ribs, and finish with local pan-seared trout. Oh, and coconut panna cotta? That's the way to really finish a meal here. For a bit of pampering the following day, the spa offers indulgent treatments like the Lemon Sugar Scrub, the Chocolate Coconut Body Wrap, and the Berry Beautiful Body Polish. The locker rooms come complete with a whirlpool, steam room and sauna, complimentary tea, and fresh fruit. All of this, plus a couple of days of much-needed relaxation, and everything is coming up, well, roses.

Eastsound, WA: $199 for Orcas Island Cottage at North Shore Cottages ($380 Value)

Beside a breathtaking fjord and surrounded by 57 miles of beaches, mountains, and forest, the village of Eastsound, the largest town on Orcas Island off the coast of Washington, is prime territory for communion with nature. But the icing on this sweet little getaway spot in the San Juan Islands is a funky, artisanal community that churns out excellent pottery, seasonal cuisine, and handmade jewelry. Escape to the peaceful North Shore Cottages, tucked away among overgrown ferns and moss-covered logs, for a two-night stay for two in the Screech Owl Swoop, boasting views of Puget Sound ($199), or the Eagle's Nest or Orca Watch ($219). For a family getaway, opt for a two-night stay for up to four guests in the Heron Cove ($249), or for up to eight guests in the Seal Point or Salmon Shoal ($289). All packages include a bottle of local wine upon arrival. Each of these intimate cottages boasts a full kitchen?perfect for cooking meals?as well as a hot tub, a TV with stereo and DVD player, cozy furnishings, a fireplace, and spectacular views from your own private deck. Ask about renting bikes, then go for a ride to the highest point on the island, Mt. Constitution in Moran State Park. Take a kayak or whale-watching trip in the marine hub of Deer Harbor, or stroll the village of Eastsound, abuzz with art galleries, boutiques, and quaint cafes?try New Leaf Cafe, a fresh Northwest-style eatery with French flair. At some point during your stay, be sure to carve your way through the old-growth cedars and Douglas firs that surround Orcas Island Pottery, the oldest pottery in the Northwest. Stroll the gardens, have a picnic, and watch the artists in action before picking up a piece to take home with you. Back at the cottages, the Sleepy Otter?a free-standing stone-and-cedar sauna with a full complement of aromas?makes the perfect kick-back spot after a day exploring the island. Set your sights toward the fjord and Escape to Orcas Island. Indoors or out, you're in for a whale of a good time. For additional information, visit North Shore Cottages on Facebook.

Pescadero, CA: $190 for Coastside B&B at Pescadero Creek Inn Bed and Breakfast ($380 Value)

One of San Francisco's greatest attributes is its proximity to seemingly middle-of-nowhere locales. Fed up with your neighbor's 5 a.m. tap-dancing lessons? A quick 40-minute drive will drop you among the sounds of babbling creeks and chirping birds. One of these rural outposts is Pescadero, less than an hour south of San Francisco. Let parking nightmares fade as you steal away to the Pescadero Creek Inn for a two-night stay for two, Mondays through Thursdays, in the Rose, Creekside, or Spring Room ($190) or the Garden Cottage ($215). Or, opt for a two-night stay for two, Fridays through Sundays, in the Rose, Creekside, or Spring Room ($215) or the Garden Cottage ($300). The Rose Room, the inn's most romantic abode, is decorated in pinks and deep reds and overlooks bucolic Bradley Meadow, while the Creekside Room is the property's largest, and the Spring Room, with its large windows and high ceilings, affords excellent views of the green hills outside. Both are outfitted with queen-size beds and come with sensual claw-foot tubs, plus Wi-Fi and complimentary bottled water. The Garden Cottage boasts a fireplace and a deck that overlooks Pescadero Creek as well as the inn's organic vegetable garden and 20 acres of flower fields. It, too, comes with a queen bed and claw-foot tub, and a foldout sitting-room daybed can accommodate a second couple. Breakfast for two each morning includes local, organic vegetables and fresh eggs from area farms, and the complimentary afternoon wine-and-cheese tasting follows suit, highlighting top local artisans like Harley Farms Goat Dairy and award-winning wine made by the innkeeper himself. Rent a bike from the inn and pedal west past the town's clapboard facades to the picnic-perfect Pescadero State Beach, about two miles away. Head the other direction on Highway 85 toward La Honda, and up pops the 133-year-old Apple Jack's Inn, a rough-around-the-edges yet eternally friendly log pub set amid atmospheric fog and centuries-old coast redwoods. Keep going to Highway 35 and you'll run into the gargantuan Methuselah tree, estimated to be about 1,800 years old. At night, don't miss Duarte's Tavern, just steps from the inn. The region is famous for its artichokes, and Duarte's, open since 1894 and featured on Food Network and PBS, is the area's preeminent purveyor of this perennial thistle. Make the short jaunt north to Half Moon Bay for golf, shopping, and surfing, or just relish the solitude you'll find at the fully restored, 100-year-old Pescadero Creek Inn. It's just a few miles from home but light years from city living.

Garden Grove, CA: $109 for Anaheim Resort at Crowne Plaza Anaheim - Garden Grove ($204 Value)

Founded by German winemakers, Anaheim, California, was settled as a buzzing locale for high-quality spirits; today, the Orange County city earns plenty of praise for family fun and world-famous theme parks. Escape to this fun-soaked Cali destination for a one- ($109) or two-night ($199) stay for two in an Executive Room at the Crowne Plaza Anaheim - Garden Grove. You'll also receive a daily buffet breakfast for two and late 2 p.m. checkout. Located less than a mile from Southern California's most talked about tourist destinations, including legendary theme parks and Angel Stadium of Anaheim, the resort is convenient for everyone from couples to business travelers to families. As an Executive Club Level guest, you'll receive turndown service and bottled water on the night of your arrival, and a morning newspaper at the front desk each day. Plus, deluxe rooms offer city views from the top floors, mini refrigerators, complimentary Wi-Fi, a 32-inch flat-screen TV, and plush bathrobes. Start your day at the breakfast buffet, featuring waffles and made-to-order omelets, before catching a ride on the complimentary shuttle that offers round-trip service to one of America's favorite family-friendly theme parks. Later, after drinking in Anaheim's sights, pick up a souvenir at the hotel's on-site gift shop, break a sweat at the 24-hour fitness center, or bliss out at the breezy outdoor pool.

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.

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 wishing well couldn't deliver on your desires with continental breakfast for two, a 25-percent discount off the dinner menu in the dining room, 20 percent off any of the club's massage and reflexology treatments, an in-room box of Malley's assorted chocolates, and a trial one-month dining membership to the inn's renowned dining club. You'll be whistling even without any work as you take in the picturesque charm of the Tudor mansion overlooking a cobblestone English courtyard and a riverside gazebo, just 30 minutes from downtown Cleveland. Tempt your taste buds with a gourmet menu at dining room featuring dishes like pan-roasted Cornish hen or char-grilled strip steak. Tell your true love not to wake you with any spell-breaking smooches as you enjoy the plush beds and free wireless access in your guest room. Your daily grind may be far from a fairy tale, but just this once why not get a head start on that happily ever after?

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.

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.

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.

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Source: http://miamiflonthecheap.com/2012/11/05/living-social-escapes-miami-beach-central-florida-kissimmee-vermont-arizona-yosemite-more-2-3-2-2-3-2-2-2-2-2/

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