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Explore American & English Camp on San Juan Island
Learn More about American and English Camp
San Juan Island National Historical Park preserves one of the Pacific Northwest’s most fascinating stories, making English Camp a memorable stop for history enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Together with nearby American Camp, these historic sites commemorate the peaceful resolution of the 1859 boundary dispute between the United States and Great Britain, commonly remembered as the Pig War. Today, both locations invite visitors to explore remarkable landscapes while learning about an important chapter in Pacific Northwest history.
Located along the quiet shoreline of Garrison Bay, English Camp on San Juan Island features historic buildings, formal gardens, interpretive exhibits, and scenic walking paths. At the opposite end of the island, American Camp overlooks Haro Strait, offering expansive prairie views, historic landmarks, and opportunities to spot wildlife. Visiting both areas offers a complete experience within San Juan Island National Historical Park, where each landscape reflects a different side of the island’s history and natural beauty.
Both parks are excellent destinations for hiking in the San Juans. The Young Hill Trail at English Camp rewards visitors with panoramic island views, while Jakle’s Lagoon Trail at American Camp passes through forest before reaching a peaceful coastal lagoon. These trails combine outdoor recreation with opportunities to discover historic landmarks, making them among the most rewarding things to do on San Juan Island.
The Best Place to Stay in Friday Harbor
After a day of exploring, Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites provides a comfortable home base in Friday Harbor. Conveniently located near the ferry terminal, the property offers easy access to the island’s museums, restaurants, shops, whale watching excursions, and outdoor adventures. Guests enjoy breakfast delivered directly to their room each morning, along with complimentary equipment for hiking, biking, and kayaking. For dinner, Coho Restaurant, located just a short walk away, features locally inspired cuisine crafted with fresh regional ingredients.
If you’re planning an adventure getaway in Washington State Parks, add both English Camp and American Camp to your itinerary. Their rich history, beautiful scenery, and accessible hiking trails make them two of the most rewarding destinations on San Juan Island. When searching for Hotels in the San Juan Islands, Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites offers an ideal location for exploring everything the island has to offer.
Explore Amish Country in Pennsylvania
Unique Getaway to Amish Country in Pennsylvania
Exploring Amish Country in Pennsylvania offers a meaningful way to experience Lancaster County’s farmland, food traditions, and strong sense of community. Families seeking a unique getaway in the East will find authentic connections to the land, local markets, and time-honored customs.
From horse-drawn buggies traveling quiet country roads to roadside stands filled with baked goods and seasonal produce, Amish Country in Pennsylvania invites visitors to slow their schedules and focus on shared experiences. Discover Lancaster through its agricultural heritage, where Pennsylvania Dutch traditions remain central to daily life. Visiting an Amish farm, browsing handmade goods, and learning about faith-centered practices provide insight into a culture shaped by simplicity and stewardship.
There are many memorable things to do in Amish Country. Lancaster Central Market, the nation’s oldest continuously operating farmers’ market, opens on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays with fresh meats, produce, baked goods, and specialty items. Down on the Farm Creamery serves homemade ice cream alongside honey, yogurt, and local snacks. The Amish Village offers guided tours of a farmhouse, barns, and a schoolhouse across its 12-acre property. Old Windmill Farm provides hands-on farm tours led by Amish hosts, giving visitors an up-close look at daily routines. Aaron and Jessica’s Buggy Rides offer traditional carriage rides past fields and covered bridges, creating a lasting highlight for many families.
A Farm Stay in Pennsylvania Near Amish Town Attractions
Verdant View Farm provides a welcoming farm stay in Pennsylvania, offering convenient access to Amish-owned shops, markets, and restaurants throughout Lancaster County. While not an Amish farm, the property works closely with Amish neighbors and reflects the region’s agricultural and historical heritage.
Guests can participate in morning chores such as collecting eggs and feeding goats and cows, creating hands-on learning opportunities for children. The 1896 Farmhouse includes four second-floor guest units with private baths, while the separate cottage offers three additional guest rooms and the option to rent the entire house for larger families. Each stay includes hearty, family-style breakfasts and time to enjoy open fields and play areas.
If you’re ready to discover Lancaster and experience Amish Country in Pennsylvania in an authentic way, Verdant View Farm offers a distinctive home base. Plan your unique getaway and book your stay today.
Explore Asheville With These Incredible Biltmore Mansion Tours
Best Biltmore Tours for a Romantic Asheville Getaway
Western North Carolina offers a compelling mix of history, culture, and scenic beauty, and Biltmore tours provide one of the most immersive ways to experience it. The Biltmore Estate stands as America’s largest privately owned home, where architecture, art, and landscape design come together in a single destination. Touring the Biltmore Mansion introduces visitors to preserved interiors, including grand halls, a historic library, and thoughtfully designed living spaces that reflect the Vanderbilt family’s legacy.
Guests can choose from a variety of Biltmore tours tailored to different interests. A self-guided audio tour allows for a flexible pace through the Biltmore House, while guided tours offer deeper historical insight and context. Specialty experiences, such as the Rooftop Tour or Backstairs Tour, reveal perspectives not typically included in standard visits. Beyond the mansion, the estate’s gardens and grounds invite exploration, with seasonal plantings and carefully planned landscapes that enhance every visit.
For those interested in culinary experiences, Biltmore winery tours provide curated tastings that highlight estate-produced wines. Outdoor options, including guided bike rides and birding excursions, extend the experience beyond the house itself and showcase the surrounding landscape. These diverse offerings make Biltmore tours one of the most engaging things to do in Asheville and throughout Western North Carolina.
Where to Stay Near Asheville NC
After a full day of exploring the Biltmore Estate, choosing the right accommodations enhances the overall experience. Located in nearby Saluda, our Boutique Hotel in Saluda is one of the best places to stay near Asheville, NC. offers a refined setting designed for relaxation and connection. Guest rooms feature high-end linens, plush towels, and thoughtful amenities such as a pillow menu, with select accommodations including jetted tubs for added comfort.
Each morning begins with a complimentary breakfast prepared with fresh ingredients, while Sunday brunch offers an expanded dining experience. Guests can also enjoy access to an on-site spa and unwind in the sauna before dining at Newman’s, the inn’s on-site restaurant. This combination of comfort, dining, and attentive hospitality makes it an ideal choice for a romantic getaway near Asheville. Booking directly ensures a seamless stay that complements your time exploring Biltmore tours.
Explore Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve
Hiking at Conkle’s Hollow for a Summer Adventure in Ohio
Conkle’s Hollow is one of the most remarkable natural destinations in Hocking Hills, offering visitors a chance to experience towering sandstone cliffs, shaded hiking trails, and some of the most dramatic scenery in Southeast Ohio. For those seeking an adventure getaway in the Midwest, Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve provides a memorable summer experience filled with natural beauty and outdoor exploration. It’s one of the best things to do in Hocking Hills!
This Ohio nature preserve encompasses more than 80 acres of protected wilderness. Massive sandstone cliffs rise more than 200 feet above the gorge floor, creating a cool and inviting environment during the warmer summer months. The preserve is known for its lush vegetation, moss-covered rock formations, seasonal waterfalls, and quiet atmosphere, which attract hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts year-round.
The most popular route is the Conkle’s Hollow Trail, also known as the Gorge Trail. This easy, family-friendly hike follows a paved and gravel pathway through the heart of the preserve. Along the route, visitors encounter towering rock walls, dense forests, colorful wildflowers, and interpretive signs that highlight the area’s geology and ecology. The trail concludes at The Grotto, a natural amphitheater surrounded by dramatic sandstone cliffs. Following periods of rainfall, small waterfalls cascade down the rock faces, creating one of the most photographed scenes in Hocking Hills.
Another landmark worth seeing is Slump Rock, a massive sandstone formation resting along the trail. Covered in mosses and lichens, it showcases the preserve’s rugged natural character and geological history. For those seeking additional Hocking Hills hiking opportunities, the East and West Rim Trails provide a more challenging experience. These strenuous routes climb above the gorge and follow the cliff edges, rewarding experienced hikers with sweeping views of the preserve below. Proper footwear and preparation are recommended for these elevated trails.
Beautiful Hocking Hills Cabins for Your Adventure Getaway
After a day exploring Conkle’s Hollow State Nature Preserve, Glenlaurel offers an exceptional place to relax and recharge. Guests can enjoy private Hocking Hills cabins and suites, the Scottish Links Golf Course, pickleball courts, hiking trails within Camusfearna Gorge, fire pits, spa services, and fine dining at Thistle and Stone. Thoughtfully appointed accommodations featuring fireplaces, private decks, whirlpool tubs, and comfortable sitting areas create the perfect setting for a summer adventure getaway in Hocking Hills. Whether planning a romantic escape, a hiking retreat, or a solo journey, Glenlaurel provides an inviting home base for exploring the region.
Explore Craft Breweries on the Charlottesville Ale Trail
Explore the Best Charlottesville Ale Trail Experience
The Charlottesville Ale Trail is one of the best ways to experience Central Virginia’s thriving craft beverage scene while taking in the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This self-guided trail connects breweries, cideries, wineries, and tasting rooms throughout Charlottesville, Albemarle County, and Nelson County, allowing visitors to customize an itinerary that matches their interests. Whether you are searching for award-winning IPAs, crisp lagers, farmhouse ales, or handcrafted cider, the Charlottesville Ale Trail offers something for every craft beverage enthusiast.
Many breweries in Charlottesville, VA, are located close to downtown, making it easy to spend an afternoon sampling locally crafted beer while exploring nearby restaurants, galleries, and shops. Others are tucked into the surrounding mountain landscape, where outdoor patios and scenic views create memorable places to relax. Visitors can also download the free digital passport to check in at participating locations and earn rewards throughout their journey.
Popular Charlottesville breweries include Decipher Brewing, Random Row Brewing Co., Selvedge Brewing, Starr Hill Brewery, SuperFly Brewing, Rockfish Brewing Company, Three Notch’d Craft Kitchen & Brewery, and Högwaller Brewing. The trail also features unique destinations such as Potter’s Craft Cider, North American Sake Brewery, Eastwood Farm and Winery, Glass House Winery & Brewery, Virginia Wine Collective, and The Tasting Room & Taphouse at Mount Ida Reserve.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast near Charlottesville, VA
After exploring the best breweries in Charlottesville, return to the comfort of our boutique Bed and Breakfast near Charlottesville, VA, located in nearby Lovingston. Approximately 40 minutes from many of the trail’s most popular stops, our inn provides an ideal mountain retreat for relaxing after a full day of tasting and sightseeing.
Guests enjoy six beautifully appointed guest rooms with private en-suite bathrooms, while the separate Farmhouse offers three additional accommodations for travelers seeking extra privacy. Each morning begins with a freshly prepared two-course breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients from Nelson County. During your stay, unwind beside the seasonal saltwater pool, stroll through the onsite vineyard, or gather around the gas fire pit while enjoying mountain views.
Beyond the Charlottesville Ale Trail, there are so many things to do in Lovingston. Visitors can explore the Monticello Wine Trail, scenic hiking trails, orchards, and the charming communities throughout Central Virginia. Whether you are planning a best weekend getaway centered on Virginia breweries or a longer mountain vacation, our inn offers an elegant home base for discovering the region. Book your stay today and begin planning your next craft beer adventure.
Explore Ecola State Park on the Oregon Coast
Best Ecola State Park Hikes on the Oregon Coast
Ecola State Park is one of the most rewarding destinations for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Oregon Coast. Located between Cannon Beach and Seaside, this remarkable park combines a rugged shoreline, towering forests, and panoramic ocean views, making it an ideal stop for a coastal getaway. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk to a scenic overlook or a challenging day hike, Ecola State Park offers trails that showcase the area’s diverse natural beauty.
One of the park’s signature routes is the Tillamook Head Trail, a 6.5-mile, one-way hike connecting Cannon Beach and Seaside. Following part of the historic route traveled by the Lewis and Clark Expedition, the trail winds beneath towering Sitka spruce and through dense coastal forest before revealing spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, hikers can stop at the overlook for Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, affectionately known as “Terrible Tilly,” one of the Oregon Coast’s most recognizable landmarks.
The Indian Beach Trail provides a shorter hiking option while still highlighting the park’s dramatic scenery. This pleasant route descends through lush forest to Indian Beach, where sea stacks, sandy shoreline, and crashing waves create one of the most picturesque settings in Ecola State Park. Visitors looking for a quieter destination can continue to Crescent Beach, Oregon, where a moderately challenging trail leads to a secluded cove surrounded by cliffs and coastal vegetation. During low tide, the rocky shoreline reveals fascinating tide pools filled with marine life.
The Clatsop Loop Trail is another favorite for visitors wanting impressive viewpoints without committing to the full Tillamook Head hike. The trail climbs through old-growth forest before opening to sweeping vistas of the Pacific, rugged cliffs, and Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Near Ecola Point, several easy walking paths also provide outstanding views of Haystack Rock and the coastline, making them excellent options for photographers and casual walkers alike.
Stay at a Cozy Oregon Coast Bed and Breakfast
After spending the day exploring Ecola State Park trails and discovering some of the best things to do in Cannon Beach, retreat to Arch Cape Inn & Retreat. Located just minutes from the park, this Oregon Coast Bed and Breakfast offers elegant accommodations, exceptional hospitality, and a peaceful setting away from the crowds. Wake to a chef-prepared breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients before setting out for another day along the coast. Whether you’re hiking, beachcombing, or discovering hidden viewpoints, our inn provides the perfect home base for your Oregon Coast adventure. Reserve your stay today.
Explore Finger Lakes Cider House & More in Upstate NY
Best Tasting at Finger Lakes Cider House in Upstate NY
A visit to Finger Lakes Cider House is one of the most unique things to do in Finger Lakes NY. Overlooking Cayuga Lake and the rolling orchards of Good Life Farm, this beloved cider house captures the creative spirit of the region while offering a true farm-to-glass experience.
While the Finger Lakes is widely known for award-winning vineyards, it is also a leader in artisan hard cider production. At Finger Lakes Cider House, you’ll discover crisp, dry, and complex ciders crafted from organic apples grown right on the property. Order a tasting flight featuring favorites like the Funkhouse and Pioneer Pippin, then pair your cider tasting with local cheeses, charcuterie, or a farm-fresh grilled sandwich.
The relaxed lawn setting invites guests to sit back and relax. You may find friends gathered around a cornhole game, couples sharing a bottle at sunset, or visitors exploring the orchard before settling in with a glass. For travelers searching for cideries near me or planning tours in the Finger Lakes, this stop belongs at the top of the list.
Beyond the Finger Lakes Cider House, several exceptional cideries and Finger Lakes wineries are located nearby, including Bellwether Hard Cider, Black Diamond Farm and Cider, South Hill Cider, and New York Cider Company. Each offers its own approach to traditional cider-making methods and locally grown apple varieties.
Stay Near Finger Lakes Cider House at Our Upstate NY Hotel
After a day of cider tasting, return to one of the most welcoming Hotels in Upstate New York. Located just a scenic drive from the Finger Lakes Cider House, our boutique inn offers thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, spa services, and a fresh breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients.
Guests appreciate the walkable village location, relaxing hot tub, and on-site Finger Lakes Spa. Whether you’re planning a unique getaway centered around cider houses, wineries, or outdoor exploration, our inn provides the perfect home base. Reserve your stay and experience the Finger Lakes Cider House and beyond in comfort and style.
Explore from Above at the Dow Gardens Canopy Walk
The Dow Gardens Canopy Walk at Whiting Forest
The Dow Gardens Canopy Walk offers couples one of the most distinctive experiences in the Midwest, combining elevated forest views with thoughtfully designed landscapes. Located within the Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens in Midland, MI, this unique walkway extends through a canopy of pines and hardwoods, providing a new perspective on the surrounding environment. Suspended more than 40 feet above the forest floor, the gently swaying path adds a subtle sense of movement.
As part of the larger Dow Gardens property, the canopy walk is complemented by over 110 acres of curated gardens. Visitors can explore seasonal plantings, water features, and more than three miles of accessible walking paths. Spring and summer bring extensive floral displays, while quieter garden areas offer space for reflection. The Dow Gardens butterfly house provides another engaging stop, with rotating exhibits that introduce visitors to a vibrant collection of species.
Within Whiting Forest, the Dow Gardens Canopy Walk features several distinct viewing areas. The Pond Arm offers quiet overlooks of the water, while the Orchard Arm connects visitors to a restored orchard landscape. The Spruce Arm introduces a more interactive element, allowing guests to engage directly with the structure and the surrounding forest.
Beyond the canopy walk, Midland and the surrounding region offer additional things to do. Visitors can explore local parks, art centers, and riverfront spaces, or extend their trip to nearby Bay City for waterfront views, birdwatching, and dining. Seasonal programming at Dow Gardens, including exhibits and educational events, adds variety throughout the year.
Stay at a Michigan Bed and Breakfast Near Midland
Pair your visit with a stay at a Michigan Bed and Breakfast near Midland to create an unforgettable couples getaway. Located in nearby Bay City, these accommodations offer a refined setting that contrasts with the gardens’ outdoor energy. Guests can begin the day with a multi-course breakfast before heading out to explore Dow Gardens in Midland, MI, and other nearby attractions.
With its combination of elevated views, landscaped gardens, and nearby attractions, the Dow Gardens Canopy Walk remains one of the most memorable things to do in Midland, MI. Stay in the central location of Bay City and have the most relaxing getaway!
Explore Gull Point State Park in Okoboji
Explore Gull Point State Park on West Lake Okoboji
Gull Point State Park sits along West Lake Okoboji’s pristine shoreline, offering hiking trails, water access, and year-round recreation, making it one of Iowa’s most compelling outdoor destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the scenic walking paths, kayaking opportunities, or simply the quiet pull of the Great Lakes region, Gull Point delivers the kind of focused outdoor experience that justifies a dedicated trip.
The park spans 540 acres and is anchored by the Barney Peterson Nature Trail, a 1.3-mile loop that winds through diverse habitat. You’ll encounter white-tailed deer, songbirds, and varied oak and prairie vegetation. The trail isn’t strenuous, making it accessible to most visitors, but it’s far from generic—the interpretive markers identify native plants and explain the landscape’s ecological story. Many visitors pair this walk with time on the water. West Lake Okoboji’s clear blue water supports kayaking and canoeing, with ramps and beach access right at the park. Fishing is solid year-round: walleye, northern pike, smallmouth bass, and white bass are common catches.
Fall and winter elevate Gull Point’s appeal. Autumn transforms the oaks into a palette of reds and golds, and the cooler temperatures make hiking genuinely pleasant rather than merely tolerable. Winter visitors often cross-country ski the same trails, giving the park a second season of purpose. Spring and summer bring fishing and water activity into focus.
Beyond the hiking and water activities, Gull Point offers open shelters for picnicking and simple rest areas scattered throughout. Pack lunch and spend an afternoon reading, sketching, or simply watching the lake. This is the kind of place where a few hours feels quiet without the crowds, just landscape and time.
The park sits within easy reach of other attractions in the Iowa Great Lakes region. Emerson Bay, with its Lighthouse Point observation tower, offers water views and beach access. Pikes Point State Park is known for swimming. The Dickinson County Trail system runs for miles and connects directly to several parks, making it possible to string together a multi-day hiking itinerary if you choose.
Why The Oakwood Inn Makes the Perfect Base
After a morning hike at Gull Point or an afternoon on the water, returning to The Oakwood Inn turns a day trip into a true retreat. This luxury adults-only bed and breakfast sits on two acres of landscaped grounds just minutes from the park, with manicured gardens, verandas, and the kind of quiet elegance that makes you want to stay longer than planned.
Each of the thirteen guest rooms features a fireplace, luxurious linens, and either a private veranda or patio. Several include a two-person whirlpool tub, perfect for easing tired muscles after a day outdoors. The property’s common spaces, including the Den with its pool table and fireplace, the sunny breakfast room, and the gardens themselves, encourage you to relax, connect with other guests, or simply recharge in solitude.
The gourmet breakfast is prepared from scratch daily with seasonal ingredients and family recipes. You might wake to a three-course spread that turns the morning into an event rather than a routine. Dietary restrictions are accommodated with advance notice, and guests can enjoy breakfast in the dining room, in their room, or as a packed breakfast to take along on an adventure.
The Oakwood Inn’s innkeepers, Bill and Bridget, offer personalized recommendations for trails, dining, and local activity rentals. Their hands-on approach means you’re not consulting a generic tourism guide; you’re getting the insight of people who live here and know the region’s rhythm.
Book an Iowa bed and breakfast getaway at The Oakwood Inn and spend your days exploring Gull Point and the broader Great Lakes region, knowing that a comfortable, welcoming retreat awaits you each evening.