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Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore
Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore on Your Next Beach Weekend
The Cape Cod National Seashore is one of New England’s most treasured coastal destinations, offering more than 30 miles of protected shoreline, towering dunes, scenic marshes, and picturesque woodlands. Established in 1961, this remarkable national park preserves 44,000 acres of the Outer Cape, creating an unforgettable setting for a beach weekend during the warmer months.
Visitors will find six unique Cape Cod National Seashore beaches, each with its own character. Coast Guard Beach is known for its expansive shoreline and views of Nauset Marsh, while Nauset Light Beach combines Atlantic surf with the iconic red-and-white lighthouse. Marconi Beach offers dramatic bluffs and a connection to the area’s communications history, and Head of the Meadow Beach provides a quieter atmosphere with easy beach access. At the northern tip of the Cape, Race Point Beach is an excellent location for wildlife viewing, while Herring Cove Beach is popular for gentle surf, bike trail access, and spectacular sunsets.
Beyond the shoreline, there are countless things to do on Cape Cod. Explore the scenic Cape Cod National Seashore dunes, ride nearby bike trails, or stop at the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham. Ranger programs, educational exhibits, guided walks, and seasonal activities help visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the area’s natural landscapes and maritime heritage.
Planning ahead helps make the most of your visit. Beach parking areas often fill early during the warmer months, especially at Nauset Light Beach and Coast Guard Beach. Visiting earlier in the day or on weekdays offers a more relaxed experience and allows additional time to explore the trails, overlooks, and surrounding communities.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast Cape Cod Travelers Love
After a day exploring the National Seashore Cape Cod is known for, return to the comfort of our Bed and Breakfast Cape Cod guests choose for personalized hospitality and thoughtful amenities. Located in West Harwich, less than 30 minutes from the national seashore, our boutique inn offers complimentary beach gear, a seasonally heated pool, and beautifully appointed guest suites.
Each morning begins with a gourmet breakfast featuring freshly prepared favorites before another day of exploring Cape Cod beaches, charming villages, and coastal attractions. Whether you are planning a relaxing beach weekend or a longer Cape Cod escape, our welcoming inn offers an ideal home base for discovering everything the Cape Cod National Seashore has to offer. Book your stay today and experience one of the region’s most remarkable coastal destinations.
Explore the Connecticut Wine Trail from Mystic
Why Mystic Is the Ideal Base for the Connecticut Wine Trail
The Connecticut Wine Trail connects 20 member wineries across the state, and with more than 45 licensed farm wineries statewide, there is no shortage of places to sip and discover. From the Litchfield Hills to the southeastern shoreline, Connecticut wineries have built a reputation for exceptional wines in a cool-climate growing region. Alongside cold-hardy hybrids, many vineyards grow varietals like Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling that thrive in the state’s unique conditions. Whether you prefer a guided flight or a relaxed glass overlooking the vines, wine tasting in Connecticut offers as much variety as the landscape itself.
Downtown Mystic is one of the best places to anchor a Connecticut Wine Trail getaway. Jonathan Edwards Winery sits just a few miles away in North Stonington, one of the state’s most recognized producers with a loyal following for both Connecticut-grown wines and carefully selected California fruit. Between tastings, grab a casual bite at Mystic Fish Camp, stroll along the Mystic River, browse downtown boutiques and galleries, or take in sunset sips aboard the historic steamboat Sabino. The Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium round out a weekend built around the best wineries near Mystic, CT.
After a day exploring Connecticut wineries and things to do in Mystic, settle into one of the best boutique hotels in Mystic, CT. Located in the heart of historic downtown, The Whaler’s Inn sits within walking distance of the Bascule Bridge, waterfront restaurants, local shops, and Mystic’s most popular attractions, making it the ideal home base for a wine getaway along the shoreline.
Plan Your Connecticut Wine Trail Getaway
The Connecticut Wine Trail route stretches from the rolling hills of the Litchfield Hills to the vineyards along the southeastern shoreline. The official trail includes 20 member wineries, each with its own tasting room and distinctive wines. Many also take part in the annual Passport to Connecticut Farm Wineries program, where visitors collect stamps as they explore the state. Most tasting rooms welcome walk-in guests, though reservations are recommended for larger groups or special events.
What makes wine tasting in Connecticut especially enjoyable is the range among wineries. Some focus on guided tastings with curated flights and local cheese or charcuterie, while others invite guests to relax outdoors with a glass overlooking the vineyards. The wineries near Mystic, CT, are especially convenient for shoreline visitors and include some of the state’s most scenic vineyards.
A few favorites near Mystic include:
- Jonathan Edwards Winery, in North Stonington, about 16 minutes from downtown Mystic, occupies a beautifully restored 1880 dairy barn on a 48-acre property surrounded by rolling countryside. Known for its bi-coastal approach, the winery produces wines from both Connecticut-grown grapes and select California fruit, with tastings, events, and outdoor seating available through much of the year.
- Stonington Vineyards, just 10 minutes from Mystic, has been producing wine since 1987 and was one of the founding members of the Connecticut Wine Trail. The vineyard is known for its award-winning Chardonnay, Seaport White, and Triad Rosé, and hosts live music and seasonal celebrations year-round.
- Saltwater Farm Vineyard, also just minutes from Mystic, pours wine inside a beautifully restored World War II-era airplane hangar overlooking tidal marshes and the Connecticut shoreline. The 108-acre vineyard grows six grape varieties, and live music, food trucks, and events run from spring through late fall.
A little planning makes a wine getaway even better. Check each winery’s website ahead of time for seasonal hours, live music, and food truck schedules, since offerings shift throughout the year. If you plan to visit more than one winery in a day, arrange a designated driver or transportation. Spring through fall is the busiest season, while winter offers a quieter, more leisurely pace. Because the wineries near Mystic, CT, sit just a short drive apart, it is easy to spread visits across a weekend and still leave time for downtown Mystic and the shoreline.
Stay at One of the Best Boutique Hotels in Mystic, CT
Whether you plan to visit one winery or spend several days exploring the Connecticut Wine Trail, staying at The Whaler’s Inn in downtown Mystic puts you within easy reach of the state’s most celebrated vineyards, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and waterfront charm. Our historic buildings offer rooms and suites for every kind of traveler, from the adults-only Hoxie House to the Stanton House’s river-view suites.
For guests continuing the culinary experience after a day of wine tasting, curated packages feature in-room charcuterie and local wine, while The Shipwright’s Daughter, our James Beard Award-winning restaurant, serves seasonal cuisine crafted with New England ingredients, including breakfast to fuel a day at the wineries. Featured in Travel + Leisure, The New York Times, and Cosmopolitan, The Whaler’s Inn remains one of the most celebrated boutique hotels Mystic, CT, has to offer.
Book Your Wine Getaway in Mystic
A Connecticut Wine Trail getaway is only as good as the place you return to at the end of the day. Book your stay at The Whaler’s Inn and start planning your visits to the best wineries near Mystic, CT.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Connecticut Wine Trail?
The Connecticut Wine Trail is an official route connecting 20 member wineries across the state, from the Litchfield Hills to the southeastern shoreline, with a Passport program that lets visitors collect stamps as they go.
How many wineries are in Connecticut?
Connecticut has more than 45 licensed farm wineries statewide, with 20 of them belonging to the official Connecticut Wine Trail.
Where should you stay for a Connecticut Wine Trail getaway near Mystic?
Downtown Mystic makes an ideal base, since wineries like Stonington Vineyards, Saltwater Farm Vineyard, and Jonathan Edwards Winery are all within a 20-minute drive.
Where is the best place to stay in Mystic, CT?
The Whaler’s Inn sits in the heart of historic downtown Mystic, within walking distance of the Bascule Bridge, waterfront dining, and local shops, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby wineries.
Explore the Dane County Farmers Market This Season
Best Dane County Farmers Market Guide for Spring
Spring and summer in Madison bring longer days, open-air dining, and one of the Midwest’s most celebrated food experiences: the Dane County Farmers Market. As the largest farmers market in the US, this iconic Wisconsin farmers market surrounds the Capitol Square and showcases producers from across the state. Saturday mornings are filled with fresh vegetables, artisan cheeses, baked goods, flowers, and a steady flow of locals and visitors discovering what makes this Madison farmers market so special.
The Dane County Farmers Market is unique in its producer-only model. Every vendor sells items they have grown, raised, or made themselves, creating a direct connection between shoppers and Wisconsin farmers. Founded in 1972, the market has grown into a cornerstone of the city’s culture and remains one of the best things to do in Madison during spring and summer. Whether you are searching for a farmers market near me or planning a Midwest getaway, this experience delivers both flavor and authenticity.
Beyond the market, downtown Madison offers plenty to explore. Lake Mendota paths invite morning walks, State Street offers shopping and dining, and museums add depth to a weekend itinerary. Many visitors build an entire day around the market, pairing it with bike rides, patio lunches, or neighborhood exploring.
Places to Stay in Madison, WI Near the Market
After a full day downtown, choosing the right place to stay in Madison, WI, adds comfort to your visit. Choosing a charming Bed and Breakfast is a relaxed alternative to larger hotels. Located minutes from the Capitol Square, The Buckingham Inn is easy to walk or drive to the Dane County Farmers Market and nearby restaurants.
Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared breakfast that reflects the same appreciation for quality found at the market itself. Guests enjoy five-star hospitality, local recommendations, and a peaceful setting that feels personal rather than crowded. For travelers planning a spring or summer getaway built around food, culture, and walkable experiences, our inn is perfectly positioned.
Make the most of your visit to the Dane County Farmers Market and enjoy a stay that connects you to a different side of Madison, WI. Book your room today and start planning your best Midwest getaway.
Explore the Dining Options at Bainbridge Island Restaurants
Best Hitchcock Bainbridge Dining Experience
Hitchcock Bainbridge has long been a driving force behind some of the most talked-about Bainbridge Island restaurants. With the debut of Kingfisher Restaurant, the Hitchcock Restaurant Group adds another layer to its culinary footprint, blending seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients with a warm, contemporary atmosphere in the heart of Winslow.
Kingfisher Restaurant feels both refined and welcoming. By day, it operates as a boutique food market and wine bar with thoughtfully curated wines, sake, cider, and sherry. By evening, it transforms into one of the most exciting places to eat on Bainbridge Island, offering small plates inspired by Japanese izakaya and Spanish tapas traditions. Expect freshly shucked oysters, seasonal crudo, grilled skewers, and vegetable dishes sourced from Kingfisher Creek Farm. Several times a month, prix fixe tasting dinners highlight the creativity that defines Hitchcock Bainbridge.
Beyond Kingfisher, the broader Hitchcock Bainbridge portfolio strengthens the island’s reputation for exceptional dining. Bruciato delivers wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, Hitchcock Delicatessen reimagines the classic deli, and Café Hitchcock provides daytime fare crafted with local ingredients. Together, these restaurants on Bainbridge Island reflect a cohesive vision rooted in quality and hospitality.
Stay at the Only Downtown Bainbridge Island Hotel
After dinner at Kingfisher Restaurant or another favorite from Hitchcock Bainbridge, complete your island escape at the only Downtown Bainbridge Island Hotel. Located just steps from the ferry and Winslow Way, Eagle Harbor Inn places you within walking distance of the best Bainbridge Island restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
Spacious suites, thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, and private parking make exploring effortless. Guests also enjoy freshly brewed Pegasus Coffee each morning and access to Island Fitness passes during their stay. Whether you arrive by ferry for the evening or plan a full island getaway, pairing Hitchcock Bainbridge dining with a stay downtown captures the very best of Bainbridge Island. Reserve your room and experience the island’s most celebrated flavors just outside your door.
Explore the Hidden Gems in Pennsylvania this Year
Best Things to Do in Pennsylvania for Couples
There are many things to do in Pennsylvania for couples, especially in the western part of the state, where scenic landscapes, historic towns, and unique attractions come together. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, the region offers a balance of outdoor experiences, local culture, and relaxing moments designed for two.
Downtown Sharon in Mercer County is a great starting point. Couples can spend an afternoon browsing boutiques like The Winner, visiting Daffin’s Candies for a sweet stop, or scheduling a treatment at Buhl Mansion Spa. Nearby dining options, including Tara – A Country Inn, provide an easy transition from daytime exploring to an evening out.
Outdoor attractions add variety to your itinerary. Springfield Falls is one of the most striking natural spots in the area, where a waterfall drops into a wooded gorge. Just steps away, Cobblehaus at the Falls Brewery offers a unique setting to enjoy a drink with views of the surrounding landscape. For a quieter experience, the historic Kidds Mill Covered Bridge provides a scenic place for a walk and photos along the Shenango River.
Beyond these highlights, there are additional things to do in Pennsylvania for couples throughout Mercer County. The Grove City Premium Outlets provide a shopping destination with a wide range of stores, while Wendell August Forge offers handcrafted pieces. For those who prefer outdoor recreation, Pymatuning State Park offers boating, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife viewing on a large reservoir that spans the Pennsylvania-Ohio border.
One of the Most Romantic Hotels in Pennsylvania
Where you stay can define your experience. Tara – A Country Inn is one of the most recognized romantic hotels in Pennsylvania, offering a private estate setting near the Shenango River Reservoir. Guests have access to on-site amenities including two restaurants, an outdoor pool, and indoor spaces designed for relaxation.
With its combination of attractions and comfortable lodging, western Pennsylvania remains a strong choice for couples looking to explore together for one of the most relaxing getaways this year.
Explore the History of the Vicksburg Civil War in Mississippi
Best Vicksburg Civil War Southern Getaway
A visit centered on the Vicksburg Civil War story isn’t just a history lesson; it is a powerful and immersive Southern travel experience. Perched high above the Mississippi River, Vicksburg became one of the most strategic cities of the war. Whoever controlled it controlled the river, and the river controlled supply lines across the South.
The Battle of Vicksburg, a Civil War campaign, culminated in the 47-day siege of Vicksburg from May 18 to July 4, 1863. If you have ever wondered who won the Battle of Vicksburg, it was the Union, which secured control of the Mississippi River and effectively split the Confederacy in two. That victory shifted the direction of the war and changed the nation’s future.
Today, you can explore this history firsthand at Vicksburg National Military Park. Driving through Vicksburg Military Park reveals preserved trenches, monuments, and sweeping views of the Vicksburg Battlefield. The USS Cairo, an ironclad gunboat recovered from the Yazoo River, provides a compelling look at river warfare. The Vicksburg National Cemetery, where thousands of soldiers rest, adds a solemn reminder of the campaign’s cost.
Stay Near the Vicksburg Battlefield in Historic Comfort
Beyond the battlefield, the Vicksburg Civil War Museum and historic homes such as the Shirley House, Duff Green Mansion, and Cedar Grove deepen your understanding of civilian life during the siege of Vicksburg. For those compiling a list of things to do, Vicksburg, MS, offers riverfront murals, museums, dining, and sunset views over the Mississippi River.
After a full day exploring the Vicksburg Battle sites, returning to a refined historic hotel near the Vicksburg Battlefield elevates your stay. Oak Hall, a 1910 Mission Revival mansion, blends preserved architectural details with modern comfort. Private guest rooms, thoughtful hospitality, a stocked Butler’s Pantry, and a saltwater pool provide a welcome retreat.
Plan your unique Southern getaway where history surrounds you. Reserve your stay and experience Vicksburg with depth, perspective, and comfort.
Explore the Hug Point Waterfall on the Oregon Coast
Best Time to Visit the Hug Point Waterfall
Hug Point Waterfall is one of the most distinctive natural landmarks on the Oregon Coast, offering a scenic stop just south of Cannon Beach. This coastal feature draws visitors looking for memorable things to do near Cannon Beach, combining shoreline views, accessible walking paths, and a touch of regional history. Reaching the falls is easy from the nearby parking area, or you can take a longer walk along the beach from Arch Cape, passing wide stretches of sand and a rocky headland before arriving at the waterfall cascading directly onto the shore.
Timing your visit is essential, as Hug Point State Park is shaped by the tides. At low tide, the beach opens up, allowing safe access around the point and into areas filled with tide pools and sea caves. These pockets reveal marine life such as starfish and anemones, making the experience more interactive. The waterfall itself flows from a sandstone cliff, creating a rare coastal scene where fresh water meets the ocean just steps away. There are so many great things to do on the Oregon Coast!
Beyond Hug Point Falls, the surrounding area offers several notable trails and parks. Ecola State Park features elevated coastal views and forested hiking routes, while Oswald West State Park leads to Short Sand Beach through a shaded trail popular with surfers and hikers. For a higher vantage point, the Neahkahnie Mountain South Trail provides expansive views of the coastline, and the Tillamook Head Trail offers longer routes through dense forest with occasional ocean overlooks.
Best Lodging on the Oregon Coast
Staying nearby enhances the overall experience, especially for travelers planning an adventure-focused coastal trip. Arch Cape Inn places you just minutes from Hug Point Beach while offering a quieter alternative to hotels in Cannon Beach. This location allows early-morning visits before busier hours, as well as easy access to nearby hiking trails and dining options in both Cannon Beach and Manzanita. It’s ideal for couples seeking time outdoors paired with comfortable accommodations. Start planning your next getaway to the coast!
Explore the Mendenhall Glacier in Juneau
Best Mendenhall Glacier Tours Near Juneau
Few experiences introduce visitors to Alaska quite like Mendenhall Glacier Tours. Located just a short drive from downtown Juneau, Mendenhall Glacier is one of the state’s most accessible natural attractions and a highlight for those looking for unique Alaska adventures. Towering blue ice, scenic forest trails, cascading waterfalls, and abundant wildlife combine to create one of the most rewarding things to do in Juneau.
Stretching approximately 13 miles from the Juneau Icefield through Tongass National Forest, Mendenhall Glacier flows into Mendenhall Lake, creating an unforgettable landscape of ice, mountains, and evergreen forests. Visitors can enjoy spectacular viewpoints throughout the recreation area, making it easy to appreciate the glacier from multiple perspectives.
One of the area’s most popular stops is Nugget Falls, where a nearly 400-foot waterfall tumbles beside the glacier. The easy walking trail to the falls offers outstanding photo opportunities and is suitable for many visitors. During the summer, salmon return to nearby Steep Creek, attracting black bears and bald eagles. Birdwatchers may also spot porcupines, beavers, and numerous native bird species throughout the area. Many visitors pair Mendenhall Glacier Tours with whale watching, flightseeing, or other Juneau excursions to experience even more of Alaska’s capital city.
The Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center provides exhibits explaining the glacier’s formation, ongoing changes, and its importance within Alaska’s landscape. Large viewing windows offer impressive scenery even on rainy days, making the center a worthwhile addition to your visit.
Guests looking for additional adventure can explore several hiking trails ranging from easy scenic walks to more challenging backcountry routes. The Photo Point Trail provides beautiful glacier views, while the West Glacier Trail rewards experienced hikers with a more immersive wilderness experience. Guided Juneau glacier tours also allow visitors to walk directly on the ice with trained guides and specialized equipment.
Stay at a Comfortable Alaska Bed and Breakfast
After a full day exploring Alaska glaciers, unwind at Alaska’s Capital Inn, a welcoming Alaska Bed and Breakfast located near many of Juneau’s top attractions. Comfortable accommodations, personalized hospitality, and convenient access to the city’s restaurants, waterfront, and attractions make it an excellent home base for your stay. Reserve your room today and begin planning an unforgettable Juneau getaway centered around one of Alaska’s most remarkable natural wonders.
Explore the Monticello Tours to Take this Winter
Best Monticello Tours for a Unique Winter Getaway
Winter is an ideal time to experience Monticello Tours, especially for those seeking a more thoughtful and uncrowded way to explore one of Virginia’s most significant historic sites. Located just outside Charlottesville, the Monticello plantation offers an in-depth look at the Thomas Jefferson House, his architectural vision, and the layered and complicated history.
Monticello is open year-round, and winter visits often allow for a slower pace and more time to engage with the stories presented throughout the home and grounds. Guided Monticello Tours focus on the main floor of the Thomas Jefferson House, where Jefferson lived, hosted guests, and pursued his interests in science, agriculture, and design. Visitors gain insight into both his accomplishments and the contradictions that shaped his legacy, making this one of the most impactful historic tours in Virginia.
Beyond the house itself, exhibits and outdoor spaces explore the lives of the enslaved men, women, and children who labored at Monticello. These interpretations are presented with care and honesty, offering a fuller understanding of the plantation’s history and its lasting significance.
Winter is also a wonderful season to explore what to do in Charlottesville, VA. After your tour, head into town to visit the Historic Downtown Mall for lunch, coffee, or local shopping. The University of Virginia campus offers another meaningful historic experience, and nearby wineries remain open for tastings throughout the season.
Stay near Charlottesville for Monticello Tours & More
Choosing the right lodging completes your winter getaway. Staying at a bed and breakfast near Charlottesville puts you within easy driving distance of Monticello while offering a comfortable place to unwind after a day of exploring. Guests enjoy welcoming common spaces, cozy evenings by the fire, and thoughtful amenities that make winter travel feel extra special.
The Orchard House Bed and Breakfast is set in Virginia’s wine country, and it’s an excellent location to relax and make your home base. This B&B is designed with elegantly muted tones, unique florals, patterned wallpaper, and both modern and antique furnishings.
From historic tours to wine tastings and seasonal events, there are so many things to do in Charlottesville for a truly unique winter getaway in Virginia.