Harried urbanites often retreat to the outdoors, where they can breathe in the minty-fresh air, marvel at funnel-shaped land clouds, and escape the office's suspicious bandolier-wearing koala. Escape the dangerous indoors with today's Groupon, which gets you a one-year membership to The Trustees of Reservations, an organization that cares for more than 100 reservations in and around Massachusetts. Choose one of the following membership levels, each of which includes one weekday admission to Crane Beach:

• For $30, you get a dual membership for one year (up to a $65 value).
• For $20, you get an individual membership for one year (up to a $45 value).

The Trustees of Reservations preserve nearly 25,000 acres of gorgeous land in Massachusetts and bordering areas, giving day-trippers more than 100 recreational spots where they can play, relax, and be wooed by nature's charm. Membership gets you discounted or free admission into each of these getaways. Ride your bike past tree-lined paths and admire the calm Boston shoreline at World's End in Hingham (free with membership). Kids can mingle with the horses, pigs, and chickens and learn their secret language (high-school French) at Weir River Farm (free with membership). Otherwise, explore American history with a free guided tour of the Old Manse in Concord, where "the shot heard 'round the world" started the Revolutionary War, and where Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote several heartbreaking spec scripts for Major Dad. For a refreshing dip in nature's pool before it gets too chilly, wade along the miles of pristine shoreline at the popular Crane Beach in Ipswich (one free admission with Groupon).

In addition, members receive discounts on special events and programs, as well as to two luxurious bed and breakfasts in Ipswich and Williamstown. You'll also get a free copy of the Trustees' 200-page guide to the reservations, a year's subscription to Special Places magazine, and a Trustees car-window sticker that gives you access to Faneuil Hall's secret go-kart track. Check the membership-benefit website for a detailed listing of benefits.

Reviews

The Trustees of Reservations have received lots of press, including a feature in the Berkshire Eagle:

• Willed by Mabel Choate in 1958 to the Trustees of Reservations, the nonprofit has made annual investments to keep the main house, out buildings and eight gardens in pristine condition. The 44-room mansion remains completely furnished and intact.

As a result, Naumkeag -- one of the Berkshires' famous summer "cottages" -- remains a stable player in the cultural landscape of the Berkshires. – Scott Stafford