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Eureka’s Iconic Coastal Getaway Experience
Why the Madaket Harbor Cruise Is the Best Way to See Humboldt Bay
If you’re planning a coastal getaway to Eureka, California, the Madaket Harbor Cruise should be at the top of your list. This isn’t a scripted tourist boat ride. It’s a working tour on a working bay, aboard a vessel that has been crossing Humboldt Bay since 1910. For visitors trying to decide what to do in Eureka, CA, this hour-long cruise explains the town better than almost anything else you could book.
The MV Madaket is the oldest continuously operating passenger vessel in the United States. It was originally built to ferry mill workers across Humboldt Bay to the lumber operations on the far shore, back when Eureka’s economy ran on timber. Today, the Humboldt Bay Maritime Museum operates the same route for Madaket harbor cruises, with a narrator instead of a crowd of lunch pails, departing from the foot of C Street in Old Town Eureka.
Once underway, the Madaket harbor cruise passes Eureka’s working waterfront, including fishing boats tied up at their slips and pilings left over from a busier industrial era. From there, it follows the edges of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, where tidal flats and eelgrass beds draw harbor seals, herons, and shorebirds. Humboldt Bay also produces most of California’s farmed oysters, and depending on your route, you will pass the beds where many of them grow. The narration covers the bay’s fishing history, its shipwrecks, and the shape of the Samoa Peninsula across the water.
Because the bay is tidal, timing changes what you will see. Low tide exposes more mudflat, which usually means more shorebirds and better odds of spotting seals hauled out to rest. High tide gives a smoother, faster crossing with less exposed shoreline. If wildlife is your main draw, check the tide chart before booking. When the museum offers it, the sunset Madaket Harbor Cruise is the one locals recommend, complete with a cocktail from the smallest licensed bar in the state aboard the MV Madaket.
Among the many Humboldt Bay boat tours available, the Madaket stands apart for its history and its price. Few excursions on this stretch of coast let you cover more than a century of maritime history in under an hour.
Where to Stay for Your Coastal Getaway: Carter House Inns
After a morning on the water, location matters. The appeal of Old Town Eureka is being able to walk everywhere, and Carter House Inns puts you in the middle of that. As a leading Eureka Hotel, we sit inside four restored Victorian buildings, a few blocks from the C Street dock, the Carter Mansion, and the rest of downtown.
We operate as a boutique hotel rather than a traditional Bed and Breakfast. Rooms include fireplaces, some with jacuzzi tubs, and several with views of Humboldt Bay and the Carson Mansion. A full breakfast is included with every stay, and Restaurant 301, the onsite dining room, is regularly counted among the best restaurants in Humboldt County.
Once you step off the Madaket, Old Town Eureka is right there waiting. Restored Victorian storefronts now hold independent shops, galleries, and some of the best restaurants in Eureka, CA. A short drive brings you to the towering redwoods of Redwood National and State Parks, where the Redwood Skywalk and quiet forest trails offer a slower pace than the harbor. Closer to downtown, Sequoia Park Zoo and the Eureka Waterfront Trail round out an easy day, whether you’re traveling with family or simply stretching your legs between meals.
Events & More at the Tryon Equestrian Center
Best Tryon Equestrian Center Events for a Weekend Trip
Planning a weekend around the Tryon Equestrian Center is one of the best ways to experience the energy, culture, and outdoor beauty of Western North Carolina. Whether you’re attending a Tryon horse show, competing in a major event, or simply enjoying the atmosphere as a spectator, the center offers something special year-round for equestrian enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The Tryon International Equestrian Center is known for its world-class facilities and its packed calendar of hunter-jumper, dressage, and eventing competitions. Signature events like Saturday Night Lights transform a typical horse show into a full evening experience, complete with Grand Prix jumping, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. Even if horses are the main draw, there’s far more to explore, including shopping, dining, and walking the expansive showgrounds.
Beyond the Tryon Equestrian Center events, you’ll find plenty more things to do in the Western North Carolina Mountains. Visitors can explore local wineries like Overmountain Vineyards or Parker-Binns, hike nearby trails at Pearson’s Falls or Blue Wall Preserve, or spend an afternoon browsing art galleries and cafes in downtown Tryon. These experiences make it easy to balance high-energy events with moments that slow the pace.
Where to Stay Near the Tryon Equestrian Center
For lodging that feels like a true retreat after a busy day at the Tryon horse park, the Orchard Inn in Saluda stands out. Located a short scenic drive from the equestrian center, this historic Saluda hotel offers thoughtfully appointed rooms and private cottages with sweeping foothill views. On-site dining at Newman’s Restaurant elevates the stay even further with farm-to-table cuisine that reflects the flavors of the region.
Guests appreciate the personal service, relaxed atmosphere, and sense of space that’s hard to find closer to the showgrounds. Whether you’re unwinding on the porch with a glass of wine or enjoying a memorable dinner after the last ride of the day, the Orchard Inn completes a weekend centered around the Tryon Equestrian Center. Book your stay and turn your equestrian plans into a well-rounded mountain escape.
Everything You Need to Know About the Lancaster Science Factory
Best Things to Know About the Lancaster Science Factory for a Family Getaway
The Lancaster Science Factory is one of the most engaging family-friendly attractions in the area and a fantastic option for things to do in Lancaster, PA, with kids. This hands-on science museum in Lancaster, PA, invites visitors to touch, test, build, and experiment through more than 75 interactive exhibits designed for ages three and up. From colorful visuals to movement-based challenges, it keeps young learners curious while adults often find themselves just as involved.
Families especially appreciate the museum on rainy days, as it remains one of the top indoor activities in Lancaster, PA. Exhibits focus on real-world STEM concepts, including Light and Vision, Electricity and Magnetism, Mechanics and Motion, Structural Engineering, Acoustics and Sound, and Fluid Dynamics. Rotating puzzle and brain teaser displays keep repeat visits interesting, while the Hall of Heroes highlights influential STEM leaders through a fun scavenger hunt.
Plan to spend around 2.5 hours exploring, though admission allows same-day reentry. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, parking is free at nearby lots, and noise-canceling headphones are available upon request. While food is not permitted inside, many walkable dining options make it easy to turn your visit into a full day in downtown Lancaster.
Where to Stay After Visiting the Lancaster Science Factory
After a busy day at the museum, staying at a Farm Bed and Breakfast in PA adds a memorable layer to your family getaway. Verdant View Farm offers a comfortable, welcoming environment just a short drive from the Lancaster Science Factory. Spacious rooms, scenic farmland, and shared spaces provide a relaxed setting where families can reconnect.
Kids often enjoy seeing real-life examples of science concepts they explored earlier in the day, from simple machines to agriculture-based learning. Morning farm-to-table meals and opportunities to help with daily chores add hands-on moments that extend the learning experience beyond the museum. It’s also just the start of great things to do in Lancaster, PA!
Pairing the Lancaster Science Factory with a farm stay creates a balanced itinerary touching on education, comfort, and quality time together. Book your stay and start planning a family trip that offers both discovery and downtime.
Exeter NH Restaurants: A Local’s Guide to Where to Eat Downtown
Why Exeter, NH, Restaurants Have Become a Seacoast Destination
Exeter, NH, restaurants are among the biggest surprises on New Hampshire’s Seacoast. There was a time when we routinely told guests to drive to Portsmouth for dinner. These days, we tell them to leave the car parked. The Exeter, NH, restaurants scene has quietly become one of the best small-town food destinations in New England, with a James Beard Award semifinalist chef, house-made pasta, two breweries, and a standout noodle shop all within a few blocks of the bandstand at the center of downtown.
With so many things to do in Exeter, the food is only half the reason to come. Exeter is a walking town, and the same few blocks that hold many of the best restaurants in Exeter, NH also lead you to the shops along Water Street, the Squamscott River waterfront, the American Independence Museum, and the campus of Phillips Exeter Academy. In summer, the Exeter Brass Band, the oldest continuously performing community brass band in the United States, fills the bandstand with free concerts. Spend a day in downtown or take a day trip from Exeter. Either way, dinner in Exeter, NH, is the perfect way to end a foodie getaway.
It is easy to make Exeter into a luxurious getaway, so rather than driving home after dessert, we recommend staying at Inn by the Bandstand, one of the best hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire. Our lodging sits directly across from the bandstand, which means nearly all Exeter, NH, restaurants in this guide are less than an easy walk from your room.
Discover Exeter, NH, Restaurants for Every Occasion
Our favorite Exeter, NH, restaurants cover everything from special occasion dinners to a quick taco between shops. One of the best things about downtown Exeter, NH, restaurants is that they are all close together, most within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy a cocktail before dinner, browse the shops, and stop for dessert. Many of the dining rooms in town are intimate, so reservations two to three weeks in advance are a smart idea for Saturday nights, especially during fall foliage season and Phillips Exeter Academy events, graduation, and alumni weekends.
- Ambrose sits in the main dining room of Inn by the Bandstand, where our chef, Stanley Arnoldo Orantes, formerly of Boston’s Ostra, Cultivar, and Ecco, prepares seasonal plates designed for sharing. Our intimate dining room has just six tables by a fireplace overlooking historic downtown, with garden patio seating in warmer months. We believe Ambrose belongs among the best restaurants Exeter, NH, has to offer and is one of our favorite choices for fine dining in Exeter, NH.
- Vino e Vivo recreates the feel of a European wine bar, where owner and wine director Tony Callendrello curates a frequently changing wine list with 20 wines by the glass and more than 100 selections by the bottle. Chef Paul Callahan, a 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Northeast, changes the menu with the seasons, and the duck fat beignets have developed a loyal following. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday and also offers a seasonal riverside patio and a reservable chef’s table tasting menu.
- Il Cornicello is one of the names we mention most often when guests ask about the best Exeter, NH, restaurants. Expect Tuscan cooking with house-made pasta, seasonal dishes built around local ingredients, and thoughtful Italian desserts that change with the menu.
- Epoch Restaurant & Bar, the gastropub on Front Street, is a reliable choice for dinner in Exeter, NH. The thoughtful cocktail list and menu featuring seasonal New England ingredients, fresh seafood, steaks, and elevated comfort food make it an easy recommendation whether you are celebrating or simply looking for a relaxed evening.
- Fat Hen Brewing Co. is one of the most pleasant surprises among the best restaurants in Exeter, NH. This small brewery serves excellent British-style meat pies, including a steak and ale pie and a chicken tikka masala pie that regulars return for again and again.
- Sea Dog Brewing Company offers relaxed pub fare, outdoor seating overlooking the river, and occasional comedy nights.
- OBA Noodle Bar is a tiny downtown noodle shop serving excellent wonton noodles, curries, and other Southeast Asian favorites.
- Las Olas Taqueria covers the quick-and-affordable end of Exeter restaurants, serving some of the Seacoast’s favorite Mexican food.
- Lexie’s lives by its motto, “Peace. Love. Burgers.” It is one of our favorite recommendations for a casual meal, serving creative burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a fun, laid-back setting.
If you work your way through downtown and still want to explore more restaurants near Exeter, NH, neighboring Newfields has several excellent options just a few minutes away, while Portsmouth’s nationally recognized dining scene is only about twenty minutes northeast. Hampton’s seafood restaurants are about fifteen minutes east along the coast.
Why Inn by the Bandstand Stands Apart from Hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire
The easiest way to enjoy the best Exeter, NH, restaurants is to stay close by. Our boutique hotel occupies a beautifully restored Federal-style mansion built in 1809, directly across from the town bandstand, with eight guest rooms and suites, seven of them featuring fireplaces. Choose from two spacious suites with a king bed and a separate room with two twins, two junior suites with king beds, or cozy queen rooms tucked away on the quiet top floors.
Morning is another reason guests choose us over many hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire. Guests can reserve an à la carte breakfast prepared fresh to order, whether you are looking for something light or a heartier meal before exploring the Seacoast. When you do not feel like walking anywhere at all, dinner at Ambrose is just one flight of stairs from your suite.
Book Your Exeter Foodie Getaway
If you are looking for hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire, that let you experience the best of Exeter, NH, restaurants, we would love to welcome you. Book your room at Inn by the Bandstand and start planning your foodie getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best restaurants in Exeter, NH?
Ambrose, Vino e Vivo, Il Cornicello, Epoch Restaurant & Bar, and Fat Hen Brewing Co. are among the top restaurants in Exeter, NH, ranging from fine dining to casual pub fare.
What is there to do in Exeter, NH?
Beyond its restaurant scene, Exeter offers Water Street shopping, the Squamscott River waterfront, the American Independence Museum, and the campus of Phillips Exeter Academy, all within walking distance of downtown.
Where is Exeter, NH?
Exeter sits on New Hampshire’s Seacoast, about twenty minutes southwest of Portsmouth and roughly an hour north of Boston.
Where should you stay for an Exeter, NH, foodie getaway?
Inn by the Bandstand sits directly across from the town bandstand in downtown Exeter, placing nearly every restaurant in this guide within an easy walk of your room.
Experience the Best of Durango, Colorado With Us!
Best Things to Do in Durango CO This Year
Durango, Colorado offers a compelling mix of history, outdoor recreation, and access to some of the most remarkable landscapes in the Southwest. Set in the San Juan Mountains, this mountain destination appeals to travelers looking for adventure, culture, and memorable scenery. From iconic rail journeys to expansive wilderness, there is no shortage of things to do in Durango CO.
A visit often begins with the Durango Silverton train, a historic narrow-gauge railroad that has operated since the late 1800s. The route follows the Animas River through rugged canyons and forested terrain, offering a perspective of the region that few other experiences can match. For those interested in history, Mesa Verde National Park is located within a short drive and features hundreds of preserved cliff dwellings built by the Ancestral Pueblo people.
Historic downtown Durango remains a central highlight. The district features preserved architecture from the mining era, now home to independent shops, art galleries, restaurants, and breweries. It is an ideal place to spend an afternoon exploring local culture while staying close to the surrounding mountains.
Outdoor recreation defines much of what to do in Durango CO. The San Juan National Forest offers extensive opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing across more than one million acres of protected land. The Animas River Trail provides a more relaxed experience, with a paved route that connects parks and scenic viewpoints throughout the city.
Where to Stay in Durango CO
After a full day of exploring, Blue Lake Ranch, one of the best hotels in Durango, CO, offers a distinctive place to stay just outside downtown Durango. Set on more than 200 acres of landscaped gardens and open meadows, the property provides mountain views and a peaceful setting within easy reach of local attractions. Accommodations include rooms, suites, and private cabins designed with regional character and comfort in mind.
Durango continues to stand out as one of the most dynamic places to visit in Colorado. Whether you are planning scenic excursions, outdoor adventures, or time exploring historic areas, the range of things to do near Durango ensures a well-rounded and engaging mountain getaway.
Experience The Best of the White Mountains in New Hampshire
Your Guide to the Best Things to Do in the White Mountains of NH
If you are building a list of things to do in the White Mountains, start with the mix that makes this region so easy to love: high ridgelines, dramatic gorges, scenic roads, and walkable towns that still feel like New Hampshire. In one trip, you can balance big, view-heavy hikes with low-effort overlooks and a few local stops for shops, galleries, and craft beverages.
Begin at Franconia Notch State Park, where the scenery brings immediate bliss. Visiting this park is one of the top things to do in the White Mountains. Artists Bluff is a moderate climb with a high reward, especially early in the day when the light hits Echo Lake and the surrounding peaks. For something easier, stay closer to the water and enjoy the lake views without committing to a longer summit route. Then head to the Flume Gorge, another of the ultimate things to do in the White Mountains. It’s a short, unforgettable walk through a narrow granite chasm with boardwalk paths and waterfalls that run strongest after rain and during spring melt.
Hiking is at the top of just about every list when it comes to things to do in the White Mountains. For classic White Mountains hiking, step up to bigger routes like the Franconia Ridge Loop if you are experienced and prepared, or choose a shorter summit trail for panoramic views without an all-day push. Waterfall hikes also belong on every itinerary. Trails like Falling Waters turn the climb into a highlight, with multiple cascades along the way and photo stops that feel earned.
Prefer your views with less effort? The Mt. Washington Cog Railway is a timeless way to reach the summit, and on clear days, the horizon stretches across multiple states. If you want the satisfaction of driving your own route, the Mount Washington Auto Road offers a steep, dramatic ascent, just check conditions first because weather changes quickly at elevation.
Plan Your Weekend Getaways Near Franconia Notch State Park
After a full day of exploring, return to a comfortable home base at our elevated Bed and Breakfast in New Hampshire, located close to many top White Mountains attractions. Choose a guest room, suite, or private cottage, then start the next morning with a gourmet breakfast crafted with local flavor and warmth. If you want your days planned with less effort, we can coordinate select experiences with trusted local guides and outfitters, from privately guided hikes to rock climbing excursions. In the evening, settle in for an exceptional meal at our on-site dinner restaurant, then unwind and do it all again tomorrow. Book direct and make your White Mountains getaway easy from start to finish.
Experience The Gorge Zipline in Saluda This Summer
Best The Gorge Zipline for Mountain Adventures
For travelers looking to experience the Blue Ridge foothills from a new perspective, The Gorge Zipline is one of the most exciting outdoor attractions in Western North Carolina. Located above the spectacular Green River Gorge, NC, this guided zipline canopy tour combines sweeping mountain scenery with an unforgettable adventure through protected forest. Whether you are planning a spring, summer, or fall getaway, it is an outstanding addition to any mountain vacation itinerary.
The course features 11 ziplines, a sky bridge, and three rappels connected by elevated tree platforms. Throughout the experience, guests descend approximately 1,100 vertical feet while traveling more than a mile through the forest canopy. Along the way, you’ll enjoy expansive mountain views, towering hardwoods, and the sounds of the Green River below. Professional guides provide safety instruction, operate the braking systems, and lead guests through every stage of the adventure.
The Gorge Zipline is also conveniently located near many of the area’s most popular attractions. After your tour, spend time exploring downtown Saluda’s local shops, restaurants, and galleries, or continue your mountain adventure with nearby hiking trails, scenic drives, and waterfalls. Its location makes it a popular choice for visitors searching for a zipline near Asheville, a North Carolina zipline experience, or even those planning a day of ziplining near Charlotte.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Saluda, NC
After an exhilarating day outdoors, return to a welcoming Bed and Breakfast in Saluda, NC, where comfort and mountain hospitality take center stage. Guests can choose from thoughtfully appointed guestrooms or private cottages, each offering a relaxing retreat surrounded by beautiful Blue Ridge views. Every morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast, providing the perfect start before exploring more of the region.
During your stay, enjoy dinner at Newman’s, the property’s acclaimed farm-to-table restaurant featuring locally inspired cuisine in an elegant setting. Combining refined accommodations with personalized service, the inn offers a distinctive alternative to traditional lodging while placing you close to the best things to do in Saluda and throughout Western North Carolina.
Whether you are searching for the best zipline in North Carolina, planning an adventure getaway, or discovering new things to do in Western North Carolina, The Gorge Zipline and a stay at our Bed and Breakfast create an unforgettable mountain escape. Reserve your stay today and experience one of the region’s most memorable adventures.
Experience Wisconsin River Kayaking This Summer
Best Wisconsin River Kayaking Near Wausau, WI
Wisconsin River kayaking is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of central Wisconsin during the warm months. Flowing through forests, wetlands, and scenic shorelines, the Wisconsin River offers paddling opportunities for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. Whether you are planning a relaxing afternoon on calm water or looking for a more challenging route, kayaking in Wisconsin provides memorable outdoor adventures surrounded by remarkable Midwest scenery.
Kayaking in Wausau, WI, is especially popular because the area features several access points, making it easy to launch and explore different sections of the river. Beginners often enjoy the quieter stretches south of the downtown dam, while experienced paddlers can test their skills at Wausau Whitewater Park, one of the Midwest’s premier whitewater destinations. Visitors without equipment can rent kayaks locally, with convenient delivery available throughout Marathon County.
Beyond the river, there are plenty of things to do in Wausau, WI, that complement a day on the water. Explore the hiking and mountain biking trails at Rib Mountain State Park, browse the acclaimed Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, or spend an evening enjoying local restaurants and breweries in downtown Wausau. Those interested in longer adventures can also discover multi-day canoe trips along the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway, a designated National Recreation Trail featuring numerous access points, portages, and scenic campsites.
Stay at One of the Finest Cabins in Wisconsin
After spending the day enjoying Wisconsin River kayaking, retreat to a private luxury cabin designed for comfort and relaxation. Located less than 15 minutes from downtown Wausau and the Wisconsin River, Owl Ridge offers a peaceful wooded setting with refined amenities that help you recharge after an active day outdoors.
Inside, guests will find an inviting open-concept design, a king bedroom with premium linens, a steam shower for two, an oversized soaking tub, and thoughtfully selected finishes throughout. Guests looking for an elevated experience can also enjoy onsite catering, including a professionally prepared four-course dinner without leaving the property.
Whether your itinerary includes scenic paddling, exciting whitewater, hiking, or exploring local attractions, Owl Ridge provides an exceptional home base for your next adventure getaway. Plan your visit during the warm months and experience why Wisconsin River kayaking and a stay in one of the finest cabins in Wisconsin create the perfect combination for an unforgettable Midwest escape.
Explore All the Best Activities in Hocking Hills this Year
Best Things to Do in Hocking Hills for Luxury Escapes
When planning refined Midwest getaways, the list of things to do in Hocking Hills offers far more than scenic overlooks. This region of southeastern Ohio is defined by dramatic sandstone cliffs, recessed caves, cascading waterfalls, and dense forest, all easily accessible and unique.
Hocking Hills State Park remains one of the most sought-after attractions in the region. With more than 25 miles of trails, visitors can experience iconic landmarks such as Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, Cedar Falls, and the Whispering Cave Trail. Hemlock-lined paths, stone staircases, and rugged gorge views create an immersive outdoor experience that feels distinctly removed from city life. For couples and solo travelers alike, these trails consistently rank among the most popular things to do in Hocking Hills, Ohio.
For those seeking things to do in Hocking Hills besides hiking, the options are equally compelling. Lake Logan State Park offers peaceful paddling and birdwatching, while High Rock Adventures provides guided rock climbing and rappelling excursions. Spotted Horse Ranch invites guests to explore miles of wooded trails on horseback, and the John Glenn Astronomy Park offers educational stargazing programs beneath remarkably dark skies.
Refined Stays in Hocking Hills Cabins
Elevating the experience even further, this Scottish-inspired estate offers one of the most complete selections of things to do in Hocking Hills for adults. Guests enjoy private nature trails through Camusfearna Gorge, featuring waterfalls, stone landmarks, and quiet forest paths just steps from their cabin door. On-site amenities include a private golf course, full-service spa treatments such as the 90-minute Bliss Massage, and halotherapy sessions nearby at the Hocking Hills Salt Cave.
Evenings center around fine dining and relaxation. Multi-course dinners highlight seasonal ingredients and classic techniques, while accommodations feature king-size beds, stone fireplaces, and private jetted hot tubs on secluded decks. Thoughtful additions, such as in-room dining and wine service. These Hocking Hills Cabins are one of the best places to stay in Ohio!
Whether you plan full days exploring Hocking Hills State Park or prefer to relax by the fire with a glass of wine, the best things to do in Hocking Hills begin and end with exceptional lodging. Reserve your luxury escape today and experience the region at its most refined.