Christine Flynn

1 month ago | arlingtonmagazine.com | Helen L. Partridge |Christine Flynn

The weather is warming and spring break is fast approaching. Looking to get outta dodge  with the kids? Consider road-tripping to these destinations within a five-hour drive of the DMV. Ride back in time to an era when steam-driven locomotives were an essential part of everyday life. Take a scenic train ride to the overlook at Bald Knob, the third highest point in West Virginia. Then explore historic downtown Cass, where guided tours are available.

Jan 10, 2025 | bethesdamagazine.com | Christine Flynn

Swanky hotel Pendry Natirar, which opened in October, is set on a 500-acre estate with rolling hills and scenic trails in Somerset County, New Jersey. It’s located along the north branch of the Raritan River. (Natirar is Raritan spelled in reverse.) The property consists of a 1912 Tudor-style mansion that was once home to Moroccan royalty, an adjacent hotel and luxury spa, and a 10-acre sustainable farm.

Nov 19, 2024 | arlingtonmagazine.com | Christine Flynn

Begin and end a festive day in Annapolis, Maryland, with laid-back luxury at 1313 West, a seven-suite boutique hotel that opened in July as a sister property to nearby 134 Prince. Each elegantly designed suite includes percale linens on a cooling charcoal-infused, memory-foam mattress, a Nespresso machine, a record player (with a selection of albums) and a spa-like bathroom with herbal products from Farmaesthetics. Some also have a stand-alone tub for a relaxing soak.

Nov 11, 2024 | arlingtonmagazine.com | Christine Flynn

Virginia Scenic Railway offers year-round sightseeing excursions with a full Santa takeover during the holidays. Riders can visit with St. Nick, snap selfies, sip hot cocoa, and snack on sweet treats while listening to holiday tunes during the roughly 50-minute, round-trip ride. The train is decked out with colorful lights, a faux fireplace near Santa’s chair and Christmas trees. Each year, Santa gives kids a collectible coin stamped with the year and Virginia Scenic Railway imagery.

Nov 7, 2024 | moco360.media | Christine Flynn

Virginia Scenic Railway offers year-round sightseeing excursions with a full Santa takeover during the holidays. Riders can visit with St. Nick (and snap their own photos), sip hot cocoa, and nosh on sweet treats while listening to holiday tunes during the roughly 50-minute, round-trip ride. The train is decked out with colorful lights, a faux fireplace near Santa’s chair and Christmas trees.