The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is a defining summer event in the region, running weekends from mid-August through October at the Mount Hope Estate in Manheim. For more than four decades, the estate has been transformed into a 16th-century village.
Set across a 35-acre village, the Faire features more than 90 daily shows, including jousting, live music, theatrical performances, and street entertainment. Skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts such as blacksmithing and glassblowing, while over 100 merchants offer handcrafted goods. The Royal Kitchens offer a wide range of dining options, including vegetarian and gluten-free selections, alongside a selection of beverages, from ales to non-alcoholic drinks.
Each summer weekend introduces a distinct theme, from fantasy and folklore to seasonal celebrations, creating variety across repeat visits. The 2026 storyline, set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, unfolds through live performances and interactive elements, adding structure and continuity to the experience. Planning ahead is essential, as tickets to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire must be purchased online in advance, and weekend themes can influence attendance.
The surrounding region offers additional appeal. Visitors can explore nearby Lancaster County, known for its farm-to-table dining, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. Downtown Lititz offers a variety of shops and restaurants, while the Strasburg Rail Road offers themed rides, dinner trains, and a classic train trip through the Amish countryside. These nearby destinations make it easy to extend a day trip into a great weekend getaway.
The right lodging near the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire turns your day out into a genuine summer escape. Tucked across seven wooded acres just 30 minutes from Mount Hope Estate, The South Mountain Inn strikes that rare balance: close enough to the action, peaceful enough to actually unwind.
Little touches make all the difference. Think morning coffee arriving at your door and freshly baked cookies in the afternoon. Whether you’re jostling between Lancaster’s farmland charm and West Reading’s hidden gems or simply coming to relax after a long day of merriment, the Inn sits at an ideal crossroads for all the best things to do.
Make the Faire a weekend getaway centered around one of summer’s most spirited traditions.
Maryland beach towns offer couples a refined way to experience the Chesapeake Bay, where working marinas, historic streets, and coastal scenery create a setting that feels both relaxed and engaging. Along the Eastern Shore of Maryland, destinations like Rock Hall provide a central starting point, with easy access to a variety of waterfront communities known for their character and connection to the water.
In Rock Hall, days can begin with a walk along the harbor, where sailboats move steadily across the bay. Couples can rent kayaks or paddleboards, book a sailing excursion, or visit the Rock Hall Museum to better understand the area’s maritime history. Nearby, St. Michaels offers boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, while Oxford and Bellevue provide quieter experiences along the water, including ferry rides and opportunities for kayaking.
For those interested in beaches, Betterton stands out with its sandy shoreline and open views of the bay, making it ideal for swimming or a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Chestertown brings a cultural dimension with galleries, historic sites, and events tied to its heritage, while Kent Narrows and Stevensville introduce a more active boating and dining scene. Together, these Maryland beach towns create a coastal itinerary for couples looking to explore some of the best places to visit in Maryland.
Set across 70 acres, this Bed and Breakfast in Maryland provides a quiet place to return after a day of exploring. Guests can choose from thoughtfully designed rooms, private cottages, or in-town vacation rentals, each offering a polished yet welcoming atmosphere. Evenings often begin with complimentary wine or beer and freshly baked treats, followed by time to unwind in a peaceful setting.
Mornings include a homemade breakfast before heading out to discover more Maryland beaches and coastal towns. On property, a saltwater pool and expansive grounds are their for your enjoyment, while curated getaway packages allow couples to personalize their stay. The Inn at Huntingfield Creek is an ideal base for experiencing Maryland vacation spots.
Few experiences showcase the rugged beauty of Southwest Colorado quite like Durango Jeep Tours. Traveling through the San Juan Mountains in an open-air 4×4 provides access to dramatic alpine scenery, historic mining routes, cascading waterfalls, and remote landscapes that many visitors never see. For visitors seeking adventure and memorable things to do in Durango, a guided jeep tour is an excellent addition to a summer mountain getaway.
Durango is known for its rich blend of outdoor recreation, history, and scenic beauty. Visitors can spend time exploring the historic downtown district, ride the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, enjoy rafting on the Animas River, or visit nearby Mesa Verde National Park. Durango Colorado jeep tours complement these experiences by providing access to high-elevation terrain that would otherwise require extensive hiking or specialized off-road equipment.
One of the most popular destinations for jeep tours in Durango Colorado is La Plata Canyon. Located just west of town, this spectacular canyon features towering peaks, waterfalls, abundant wildlife, and remnants of Colorado’s mining history. As the route climbs toward elevations approaching 12,000 feet, guests enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and opportunities to spot deer, foxes, marmots, hawks, elk, and other wildlife.
Summer is one of the best times to experience Colorado jeep tours. Snowmelt feeds vibrant waterfalls, wildflowers begin to bloom across alpine meadows, and mountain temperatures create ideal conditions for outdoor exploration. Whether you choose a scenic waterfall excursion or a high-country adventure through La Plata Canyon, Durango Jeep Tours offer an unforgettable way to experience Colorado’s mountain landscapes.
After a day spent exploring mountain roads and alpine scenery, a comfortable retreat makes all the difference. Antlers on the Creek offers a distinctive Bed and Breakfast in Durango, set on a historic property along Lightner Creek. Guests enjoy thoughtfully appointed suites, a peaceful canyon setting, homemade breakfasts, and a hot tub with mountain views. Located just a short drive from downtown Durango, it provides convenient access to the region’s most popular attractions while offering a relaxing atmosphere away from the crowds.
Complete your adventure getaway with a stay at a welcoming Bed and Breakfast Durango property and discover why this region remains one of Colorado’s most beautiful destinations.
Eagle Harbor Books is one of the most beloved destinations in Downtown Bainbridge Island, offering visitors a welcoming place to browse, discover new authors, and experience the island’s literary culture. For those exploring Bainbridge Island shopping, this independent bookstore remains a favorite stop thanks to its thoughtfully curated inventory, knowledgeable staff, and strong connection to the local community.
Located in the heart of downtown, Eagle Harbor Books is much more than a retail store. Its extensive wall of staff recommendations encourages visitors to explore new genres and authors through selections chosen by passionate readers. Whether you are searching for literary fiction, mysteries, nonfiction, or children’s books, the bookstore offers an impeccable collection.
The store is also known for supporting local and regional authors throughout the Pacific Northwest. Visitors will find dedicated displays featuring writers from Bainbridge Island and beyond, creating opportunities to discover voices that reflect the culture and character of the region. Throughout the year, Eagle Harbor Books hosts author readings, book signings, and community events that contribute to the vibrant cultural life of Downtown Bainbridge Island.
Families visiting Eagle Harbor Books will appreciate the thoughtfully designed children’s section, which encourages young readers to explore books in a welcoming environment. Beyond its extensive book selection, the store also offers gifts, greeting cards, locally crafted items, and unique finds that make it a worthwhile stop for shoppers seeking meaningful souvenirs.
For guests looking to enjoy everything downtown has to offer, Eagle Harbor Inn provides a convenient home base within walking distance of Eagle Harbor Books, local restaurants, galleries, and the ferry terminal. As one of the most conveniently located Bainbridge Hotels, the property allows visitors to experience the best of Bainbridge Island without relying on a vehicle throughout their stay.
After browsing the shelves, visitors can enjoy a nearby café, stroll along the waterfront, or continue exploring Downtown Bainbridge Island. Pairing a visit to Eagle Harbor Books with a stay at Eagle Harbor Inn creates an enjoyable weekend getaway centered around local culture and the welcoming atmosphere that has made Bainbridge Island a favorite destination in the Pacific Northwest.
Exploring the best Nashville winery offers couples an easy way to slow down and enjoy the flavor of Middle Tennessee. The region’s winemaking roots reach back to early settlers who recognized the potential of the South’s warm climate and fertile land. Today, that tradition continues at vineyards committed to craft production and elevated tasting experiences, giving visitors a rich sense of place with every pour.
Arrington Vineyards stands out as the premier Nashville winery for couples planning a relaxed day trip. Rolling vines, hillside views, and thoughtfully produced wines create a setting that feels both polished and comfortable. Guests can sample curated flights, enjoy seasonal events, and share moments that feel unhurried. The property’s reputation comes from consistent quality, award-winning bottles, and an atmosphere ideal for conversations that last long past the final sip.
Our Boutique Hotel in Nashville helps shape an unforgettable couples getaway with its historic charm and inviting guest rooms. The mansion pairs southern architectural detail with modern comfort, offering a restful retreat between winery visits. A home-cooked breakfast, generous common areas, and attentive hospitality set the tone for a memorable wine-themed trip.
Couples visiting Arrington Vineyards often appreciate how the itinerary expands to include other top-rated things to do in Nashville, TN. City Winery Nashville blends an urban setting with small-batch production, offering visitors a lively tasting room, a restaurant, and a performance space. Belle Meade Winery adds a historic angle with its guided sessions and traditional varietals served inside restored buildings on the property. Each stop offers something different, which helps couples shape a personalized route through some of the best wineries in TN.
Our Boutique Hotel in Nashville offers curated experiences in Nashville that add to the mix, too. Belle Air Mansion’s Wine Discovery experience provides an additional way to learn about local varietals before heading into Nashville’s wine country. Couples enjoy a guided tasting led by knowledgeable hosts, which often deepens appreciation for the craftsmanship found at Arrington Vineyards and other nearby spots. After a full day of tastings, returning to a spacious room and a quiet evening offers the right balance of comfort and convenience.
Book your room today and begin planning a thoughtful and flavorful couple’s getaway.
Galena is small, but there’s a surprising array of fun things to do in Galena. Between historic streets, independent shops, great restaurants, and scenic trails, it’s the kind of town that makes you want to park the car and just wander. Add in Galena breweries, and you’ve got a trip itinerary that practically writes itself.
Start with Galena Brewing Company, the hometown favorite that helped bring craft beer back to town. It’s an easy stop for an afternoon pint between shopping and sightseeing, and it’s also a solid lunch option with a full menu. If your timing is right, plan your weekend around their live music in the summer for an extra-fun night out. Want the behind-the-scenes version? Their brewery tours are offered Fridays at 3 p.m., with other days available by appointment, a great way to mix local history with a proper tasting.
Once you’ve checked off the classic, keep the weekend going with a few nearby pours. Galena Taphouse is a great add-on for a relaxed beer-and-food stop downtown. Just outside the center of town, Highway 20 Brewing Co. makes an easy detour when you want to expand your tasting list without committing to a long drive. If you’re up for exploring the area, you can round out the weekend with a visit to Mud Run Beer Company in Stockton, Dimensional Brewing Company in Dubuque, for something a little different, or Pecatonica Beer Company in Warren, a small gem that feels like a true find.
If your weekend includes Galena breweries, it helps to stay close enough to walk to the fun, then come back and fully relax. Our elevated Galena Bed and Breakfast is a short stroll from downtown favorites, with spacious guest suites designed for comfort, privacy, and a little wow factor. Each stay includes thoughtful touches like chilled champagne on arrival, plush Frette robes, Aveda toiletries, Samsung Smart TVs, and a customizable Bluetooth sound system throughout your suite.
We also deliver an in-room wine-and-appetizer tray each afternoon, packed with house-made bites, local charcuterie, and sweet treats. Book direct, settle in, and make your next Galena weekend all about great beer, great food, and an even better home base.
If you are planning a summer trip along the Southern Oregon Coast, Gold Beach Oregon deserves a spot on your itinerary. Located where the Rogue River meets the Pacific, this stretch of coastline combines dramatic scenery, outdoor recreation, and wide-open beaches that feel far removed from the busier coastal towns farther north. Visitors searching for things to do in Gold Beach Oregon quickly discover a destination built for family adventure, wildlife encounters, and long days spent outdoors.
Summer is one of the best times to explore Gold Beach Oregon attractions thanks to the region’s mild temperatures and sunny coastal weather. Beachcombing for agates, whale watching from the shoreline, and exploring the rugged beaches in Oregon are all part of the experience here. Along the coast, travelers regularly spot harbor seals, bald eagles, Roosevelt elk, and migrating gray whales.
Fishing is another major draw. The Rogue River is nationally known for salmon fishing, while offshore charters attract visitors looking for lingcod, halibut, and tuna. Crabbing and clamming opportunities also make Gold Beach a favorite stop for travelers who enjoy fresh coastal seafood and hands-on outdoor activities.
One of the most memorable experiences in Gold Beach Oregon is the historic Rogue River mail boat tour. Operating seasonally through the summer months, these jet boat excursions travel deep into the Rogue River canyon while sharing the history of the remote upriver communities that still receive mail deliveries today. The scenery along the route is spectacular, with forested cliffs, wildlife sightings, and dramatic river views around nearly every bend.
Visitors exploring things to do on the Oregon Coast should also make time for the Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor just south of Gold Beach. This protected stretch of coastline features sea stacks, hidden coves, natural bridges, and forested hiking trails that showcase some of the most photographed scenery on the Southern Oregon Coast.
For visitors planning a broader coastal road trip, staying at one of the top Bandon Hotels creates easy access to Gold Beach and surrounding attractions. Inn at Face Rock offers a private beach trail, heated pool, daily breakfast buffet, and a central location for exploring the Southern Oregon Coast. After a full day of hiking, fishing, and sightseeing, returning to comfortable accommodations along the coast makes the experience even better. Reserve your summer stay today.
Few destinations capture the spirit of an island adventure quite like the Cattle Point Lighthouse on San Juan Island. Located on the island’s southern shoreline, this historic landmark combines sweeping coastal scenery, fascinating maritime history, wildlife viewing opportunities, and some of the most impressive vistas in the Pacific Northwest. For those searching for things to do on San Juan Island, a visit to Cattle Point Lighthouse belongs high on the list.
Situated about 25 minutes from Friday Harbor, the area surrounding Cattle Point offers a landscape that feels dramatically different from the island’s downtown waterfront. Open meadows, rocky beaches, coastal bluffs, and panoramic views of the Salish Sea create a setting that is especially memorable during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy easy walking trails, beach access, and longer hiking routes that connect with nearby American Camp, part of San Juan Island National Historical Park.
The history of Cattle Point Lighthouse dates back to the late 1800s, when an early navigational light helped guide vessels through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The current lighthouse, built in 1935, stands as a distinctive octagonal concrete tower overlooking the shoreline. Although the lighthouse itself is not open for tours, the surrounding grounds provide excellent opportunities to appreciate both its historic significance and scenic location.
One of the highlights of visiting Cattle Point on San Juan Island is the chance to experience the area’s abundant wildlife. Bald eagles, harbor seals, seabirds, and seasonal whale sightings are common along the coastline. During summer, wildflowers add vibrant color to the meadows, while clear evenings create ideal conditions for stargazing. The area’s limited light pollution makes it one of the island’s favorite spots for viewing meteor showers and constellations.
After a day spent exploring one of the most iconic San Juan Island lighthouses, returning to comfortable lodging in Friday Harbor is the perfect way to unwind. Tucker House Inn and Harrison House Suites offer convenient access to the island’s top attractions while providing welcoming accommodations, gourmet breakfasts, and easy access to downtown dining and shopping. Guests are also just steps from Coho Restaurant, known for Northwest cuisine and an extensive wine selection.
Whether you are planning a summer escape focused on outdoor recreation, history, or scenic sightseeing, the Cattle Point Lighthouse offers an unforgettable island adventure. Pair your visit with a stay at one of the premier Friday Harbor Hotels and discover why San Juan Island remains one of Washington’s most beloved travel destinations.
Buttermilk Falls State Park is one of the most recognizable natural attractions in the Finger Lakes, offering a distinctive combination of layered waterfalls, dramatic rock formations, and accessible hiking. Located just outside Ithaca, this park introduces visitors to some of the most visually compelling waterfalls in New York. Buttermilk Creek descends nearly 600 feet through a carved gorge, forming a series of cascades that create a continuous, immersive experience along the trail.
The park’s layout makes it especially appealing for a romantic outing, with scenic pathways that follow the water closely. The Gorge Trail is the most popular route, guiding visitors past multiple waterfalls, stone staircases, and clear pools framed by shale and sandstone formations. These geological features, shaped over thousands of years, create a structured landscape that sets Buttermilk Falls apart from other Finger Lakes waterfalls.
Beyond the main gorge, five well-maintained trails offer a range of perspectives, from wooded paths to elevated rim views. As you explore, you will notice details such as carved potholes and distinct rock layers that reflect the area’s geological history. The surrounding Ithaca area further expands the experience, with additional waterfalls, lake access, and opportunities to explore local wineries and small towns. This variety makes it one of the most rewarding destinations for those seeking both outdoor activity and a refined travel experience.
Choosing the right lodging near Buttermilk Falls State Park enhances the overall visit. Staying nearby allows for early access to the trails and a more relaxed pace throughout the day. A boutique Hotel in the Finger Lakes offers a comfortable setting with thoughtful amenities that complement time spent outdoors.
Guests can unwind in shared spaces, enjoy a glass of wine sourced from local vineyards, or spend time outdoors by a fire pit or on a terrace. On-site spa services, including massage and wellness treatments, provide an additional layer of relaxation after a day exploring waterfalls in Ithaca and the surrounding region.
With convenient access to Buttermilk Falls State Park and other top things to do in the Finger Lakes, this style of lodging supports a well-balanced and memorable romantic getaway. Plan your visit and reserve your stay to experience one of the most engaging waterfall destinations in New York.