I visited a Maryland town in the 'new Hamptons.' This laid-back hidden gem is my new favorite vacation spot.

I love visiting Maryland's Eastern Shore, which has been called the "new Hamptons." Leigh Scheps Even though I grew up in New Jersey, I rarely visited the Hamptons .

Now, my family and I like to visit Maryland's Eastern Shore, nicknamed the "new Hamptons." Easton is our favorite town to visit because of its great restaurants and shopping.

Growing up in New Jersey, I spent my summers on the Jersey Shore because the Hamptons felt like too much of a schlep.

For the past two years, though, my family and I have traded our favorite boardwalks for long weekends on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

The area, which has been nicknamed the "new Hamptons" by Forbes , is home to a town that's really stolen our hearts: Easton.

To me, it has the polish of an upscale Hamptons town with a more laid-back feel.

Plus, it's only about three hours from my home in New Jersey , making it the perfect three-day weekend getaway for my family.

Here's why I think Easton is worth a visit.

We love exploring the charming downtown area There are lots of cool shops in downtown Easton.

Leigh Scheps When visiting Easton, we love spending time in the charming but lively downtown area.

The first time we visited, there was a concert in the middle of the road.

Folks brought lawn chairs to listen to the music while kids, like my son, played and danced along.

But even when there isn't a special event, we love exploring the shops.

The Easton Town Center is very much a mini walkable city spanning several blocks with back-to-back stores, restaurants, and art galleries.