We are still searching for the perfect long weekend getaway for 3 old friend to celebrate our 50th birthdays. We are seriously considering Las Vegas but it was just mentioned that since we don't have all that long, possibly going to NYC for 2-3 days may be better this time. Two of us live in NJ and the other has easy access to flights. I am not all that sure about NYC although I know there are shows I would love to see, I think the hotels and food are very expensive. What can you recommend to do in NYC? Where to stay and eat? Does anyone have any other suggestions for a 2-3 day getaway within driving distance of NJ with a convenient airport for our Indiana friend to fly in to. We are planning for early March and are looking for shows, spas, sightseeing and suggestions!

NYC is all around pricey -- last time we took a trip to NYC, we actually stayed in NJ to save money!

How about Chicago?

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Have you used one of the online travel sites (Expedia, travelocity, etc) to check hotel rates for the dates that you're looking for? A weekend in March might bring some bargains....just got to look around.

Other than that, what about the Berkshires or the Poconos?

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There is also DC. You can stay in Maryland or Virginia for cheaper hotels. All the museums are free. Or Baltimore in the Inner Harbor.

Chicago may be a little too far. I do think DC may be fun - someone else mentioned Atlantic City. I will be looking into both of them. Any suggestions on where to stay at either? TIA!

In my never terribly humble opinion Atlantic City is a dive. Been there twice for a conference....do not stray off the main drag. Icky.

cj/

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I was walking home one night and a guy hammering on a roof called me a paranoid little weirdo. In morse code. -Emo Phillips

Check out Reviews of vacations, hotels, resorts, vacation and travel packages - TripAdvisor for reviews of hotels. I have been to DC many times and always had a good time. I have also enjoyed the harbor area (aquarium) in Baltimore.

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how about hershey and lancaster pa.theirs lots to do. hollywood casino is not far from hershey you could see a show in hershey or go to the chocolate spa. lots of good shopping. lancaster is nice .your friend could probaly get a flight to ABE airport. checkout Hershey, Pennsylvania - The Sweetest Place on Earth you could still make a day trip to philly . hope this helps.

Oh my gosh, the Hershey Spa is awesome! You can stay at the main hotel or for a little cheape stay at the Hershey Lodge. Get one room or two adjoining rooms. Then make a day at the spa. If you all decide on what spa treatments you want, have one person call to make the reservations. They will work with you to have all of your stuff going on around the same time. you can meet up in the aromatherapy room or the sauna between treatments. There is an indoor pool that you have access to. And the Quiet Room has the most amazing hot chocolate. There is a small veranda that you can go out on and talk since you aren't supposed to talk in the Quiet Room. You can even arrange for lunch together in your spa robes. I know they have packages and people can order gift certificates for there so if anyone would happen to ask you what you wanted for your birthday you could say a spa gift card.

There are two restaurants in the lodge. One is very nice, sit down with a bar and great atmosphere and the food was amazing. They also have a sports bar that you can hang out in afterwards.

You are very close to the chocolate factory and to some outlets for shopping. Definitely check it out. I can't wait until I can go back!

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