When planning a week-long vacation to Boston, MA, for myself, my wife, and my then 7-year-old son, I realized that we not only could check Boston off our travel list but also another top spot as well in Salem, MA. Being only a 45-minute drive from our hotel in Boston, we decided to spend a day in Salem, MA, and I’m so glad we did. Being fans of the Hocus Pocus movie and the historical aspect of Salem, I made sure to plan our day to be jam-packed with all things Salem had to offer.

For visitors looking for a Philadelphia getaway that feels different from the bustle of Center City, Penn’s Landing offers a unique surprise. The waterfront along the Delaware River has the atmosphere of a shore-side destination rather than the traditional city streets many associate with Philadelphia. With scenic riverfront views, outdoor dining, and plenty of family-friendly activities, the area creates the feeling of a mini-vacation without ever leaving the city.