Not all of us can be as lucky as to have an unlimited number of vacation days. Most of us are lucky if we get two weeks of vacation, let alone 3, 5, or even 6. As far back as we can remember, the Presidents of the United States have been able to take vacation when they want and, sadly for us, as long as they want.

What’s the other advantage the president has? He can go wherever he wants, and often the President gets to travel to destinations that are off limits to the average person. Perhaps it’s because we simply can’t afford them or perhaps because they’re off limits to the general public.

Truth be told, our country’s Presidents have always relaxed in style, and rightfully so. Leading the country is hard work. Here are some favorite vacation spots amongst US Presidents.

Hyannis Port, Massachusetts

John F. Kennedy was a huge fan of Hyannis Port and went there whenever he felt the urge to relax and unwind. Hyannis Port used to be a tiny fishing village not far from Cape Cod, but not it’s seen as a resort town for anyone who can afford to stay there.

The compound where Kennedy used to stay is closed to the public, but visitors can visit the JFK Hyannis Museum or explore other nearby attractions in this beautiful area. Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island are only a day-trip away from Hyannis Port. Visitors will also enjoy the beaches, sailing, and simply sunbathing!

Campobello Island, New Brunswick, Canada

Leave it to Franklin D. Roosevelt to vacation out of the country. The Roosevelt family began vacationing on Campobello Island back in the late 1880’s and immediately fell in love. The eventually purchased their own cottage (if that’s what you want to call a mansion with 34 rooms). The family enjoyed frequent trips to the island up until the President was struck with polio. Between his illness and the presidency itself, trips to the island became less and less frequent.

Today visitors are encouraged to explore Roosevelt Campobello International Park – a joint effort monitored by both the United States and Canada. Those who travel to the island will enjoy bird watching, camping, exploring the walking trails, and even exploring Roosevelt’s old cottage.

Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

We often hear of both presidential families and celebrities vacationing in Martha’s Vienyard, so it’s no surprise that Bill Clinton spent some time there (amongst other places), as did Ulysses S. Grant.

The island on which Martha’s Vineyard stands is a mere 90 square miles and is the perfect place to enjoy a brisk breeze, outdoor activities, and elegantly prepared food.

Newport, Rhode Island

Dwight Eisenhower jettisoned through over 35 foreign countries during his presidency, but his favorite vacation retreat was in Newport, Rhode Island. He loved simply relaxing and playing golf here before returning to Washington.

You can still play golf in Newport, but there is plenty of other activity there as well. You’ll enjoy relaxing walks along the shores and attending the annual Newport Jazz and Newport Folk festivals as well.

Key West, Florida

President Harry Truman preferred vacationing in the winter time in order to get away from the cold weather in Washington, DC. He loved it so much, in fact, that he spent a total of 175 days there at what is now know as the “Little White House.”

The home is now undergoing extensive renovations which will include period specific artwork, furniture, and decorations. Visitors to Key West can tour the grounds or find a charter boat for a deep sea fishing trip. Ernest Hemmingway is said to have enjoyed visiting Key West, as well, so keep your eyes peeled for some of his historic hot spots as well.

Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Herbert Hoover became president back in 1929 and one of the first tasks on his secretary’s list of things to do was to find him the perfect vacation retreat. He immediately began vacationing at Rapidan Camp, which wasn’t known as Shenandoah National Park until much later.

President Hoover and his guests loved fishing and now tourists can relax and fish there as well. The waters are stocked with wild trout and visitors will also have a great time camping or hiking to the actual summertime house of our former leader.

You obviously don’t have to be President of the United States to visit some of these destinations, but wouldn’t it be nice to know you could visit as often as you desired throughout the entire year? These deserving gentlemen received five-star service and accommodations for much of their lives during and after the presidency. If only we could be so lucky!

Image credits: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8