Channel your inner movie star at the Museum of the Moving Image in
Astoria, Queens, just 15 minutes from LaGuardia by taxi. Besides
the photos, movie stills, equipment, props, and a theater that
screens serials daily, the museum has interactive exhibits where
you can create your own animation, revisit years' worth of
political campaign commercials, and more. $10. (718) 784-0077,
www.movingimage.us
Distance from airport: four miles. Best transportation option:
taxi.
PARIS CHARLES DE GAULLE AIRPORT
Stroll along the Canal St. Martin, tagged by trend seekers as the
next It neighborhood in Paris. Built in 1825 as a shortcut between
loops of the River Seine, the canal still has its metal footbridges
and nine locks, and the footpaths flanking it still exhibit a slice
of local life. Shops and restaurants line the banks. Have the
cabbie drop you canalside at Rue Beaurepaire and walk toward Rue
des Récollets.
Distance from airport: 15 miles. Best transportation option:
taxi.
RALEIGH - DURHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Stop at the only airport in the country next to a state park, and
what's the natural thing to do? Hit the trails for a 20-minute walk
or a longer hike, of course. Then rent a rowboat or canoe (daily in
the summer, weekends in spring and fall). You'll feel miles away
from your next flight. William B. Umstead State Park, 8801 Glenwood
Ave., (919) 571-4170.
Distance from airport: four miles. Best transportation option:
taxi.
SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Your inner child loves toys, so head to the nearby Burlingame
Classic Toy Museum, where you'll see classics from your childhood,
including Tinkertoys, Erector sets, Lincoln Logs, and others. Plus,
there's a collection of Pez memorabilia, including the entire
Peanuts gang. Can't live without something? Two words: gift shop.
They'll ship that Darth Vader Mr. Potato Head for you. 214
California Dr., (650) 347-2301.