Need a change of scenery and a safe spot to cool off within driving distance of home? The following hotels and resorts have reinvented the guest experience with outdoor dining, physically-distanced activities and other perks for families (including pet-friendly accommodations), all with extensive sanitation procedures. Many are offering reduced rates and package deals. Alternately, if you want to host out-of-town visitors without putting them up in your own house, the list also includes a few Northern Virginia hotels with special summer 2020 offerings.
Inn at Perry Cabin
This Maryland resort on the Chesapeake Bay offers sailing, paddle boarding, kayaking and other water-based activities, in addition to championship golf and tennis facilities. Perry Cabin has converted a number of its greenhouses and gazebos into intimate dining spaces for its farm-and-sea-to-table kitchen. Limited occupancy, deep cleanings and a mask requirements for all staff and guests are part of the luxury property’s commitment to safety. The pool is open at reduced capacity. For those who prefer to stick to their own pods, there is corn hole, croquet and plenty of board games. Dogs are allowed (for a fee) with pet beds, water and food provided during your stay. //308 Watkins Lane, St. Michaels, Maryland. Distance from Arlington: 90 minutes.
Salamander Resort & Spa
The five-star property in Middleburg reopened in June and all of its amenities are available to guests, with social distancing and stringent sanitation measures in place. The indoor pool and outdoor pools are open, and you can make appointments for special experiences like access to the ponies in the equestrian center, disc golf, art classes and the zip line. Dogs are also treated as VIPs, with their own in-room amenities like special beds and organic treats. After visiting (and taking pictures) with the resort’s miniature horse mascot, Cupcake, grab a s’mores kit and roast marshmallows by the fire pits to close out the day. For a longer break, the resort is currently offering a fourth night’s stay for free. //500 N. Pendleton St., Middleburg, Virginia. Distance from Arlington: 1 hour.
The Greenbrier
This historic West Virginia property has adopted strict Covid-19 protocols for keeping the entire resort sanitized – from the elevators to the casino dice. Everyone gets a temperature scan upon registration. Guests can book outdoor pool time in 2-hour increments (there is also an indoor facility) and choose from dozens of family activities, including bowling, an escape room, an arcade, fishing and carriage rides across the resort’s 11,000 acres. There are also full-day, half-day and nightly programs for kids 12 and under. Pets—cats and dogs—are allowed in certain accommodations for a fee.  Families looking for a more all-inclusive plan can opt for a package that includes daily breakfast and a three-course dinner at several of the property’s restaurants. //101 W. Main St., White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia. Distance from Arlington: 3 hours, 45 minutes.