Food Traveler Magazine Summer 2017 | Page 137

When it comes to the northeast United States, we automatically think of the rocky coastlines of Maine, or the bright lights of New York City. However, these top-ranked stays on the northeast will have you planning an entirely different vacation next time you’re heading to the region. The Chanler Newburyport, Ma Start off with a look into The Chanler at Cliff Walk. Located in New- port, Rhode Island, The Chanler is all about luxury. While there may only be 20 rooms at The Chanler, everything is dressed to a tee, and completely personable, with French-Provincial style and archi- tecture. Enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic from various points of the hotel, including their award-winning restaurant, Spiced Pear. The building was originally a private summer home for a New York Congressman, John Winthrop Chanler, but has since been turned into a favorite vacation destination, both for tourists, and for locals just looking to escape to the luxurious “Cliff Lawn” for a weekend. The area is known as Cliff Lawn because of its visitors who came to take part in the summer retreat with Chanler and his wife, Mar- garet Astor Ward, whom was the great granddaughter of the well- known John Jacob Astor. Visitors such as President Theodore Roosevelt and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow used to come to the mansion, so when you stay at The Chanler, you get a dose of New- port history, as well as a stay in a hotel that practically defines the meaning of couture. Another great place to visit while you’re in the northeast is Newburyport, Massachu- setts. Newburyport boasts Plum Island, a barrier island located just north of Cape Ann. Parker River The Lodge at Glendorn It is approximately 11 miles in length and is named for the wild plum shrubs that grow there. There are public beaches you can enjoy, or go fishing in the Merrimack River. The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a great place to go sightseeing, where you’ll be able to spot over 800 different species of plants and animals. Park- ing is available at the refuge for a small fee, and there are also pri- vate lots around Plum Island to park in, depending on what your plans are for the day. Plum Island, with its beaches, wildlife, sanc- tuaries, and miles of pristine shorelines, is an excellent choice for a nature vacation in the northeast, especially during the summer months. In Newburyport, wrap up the day with local cuisine or some window shopping, and if you choose to stay for a few days, try one of their quaint bed and breakfast locations. Northeast