Cape May, N.J.
In this lovely corner of the Garden State, birders flock, foodies rejoice, and summer says a long goodbye.
Why its a great value: Transportation from Boston is cheap, a rental car isnt necessary, and despite plenty of high-priced fine dining, youll find reasonable food options, too. Plus, visiting in the off-season (after Labor Day) means no beach entrance fees.
How to get there and around: Spirit Airlines (800-772-7117, www.spiritair.com) flies direct from Logan to Atlantic City International Airport for about $100 round-trip. Cape May is a 50-minute drive from the airport. Rent a car or use Tropianos private shuttle service (609-383-3402, www.tropianotransportation.com/ac).
(Handout photograph from The Mad Batter)

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