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The Best Breweries in Wausau, WI
Best Wausau Breweries to Visit Near Downtown Wausau
Exploring Wausau Breweries is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the local culture, craft beverage scene, and welcoming atmosphere of Central Wisconsin. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway focused on outdoor recreation, downtown dining, or simply relaxing with someone special, the area’s breweries provide the perfect addition to your itinerary.
Located throughout downtown Wausau and the surrounding communities, these breweries offer everything from traditional Wisconsin lagers to innovative seasonal releases and small-batch creations. Visitors can enjoy casual taprooms, outdoor beer gardens, live entertainment, and locally inspired food while discovering why Wisconsin breweries continue to attract craft beer enthusiasts from across the Midwest.
Beyond the brewery scene, there are countless things to do in Wausau WI. Spend the day hiking the scenic trails at Rib Mountain State Park, skiing at Granite Peak during the winter months, browsing local shops in downtown Wausau, or attending a performance at the historic Grand Theater. The area’s mix of outdoor recreation and vibrant downtown attractions makes it easy to create a memorable weekend escape.
Stay Near the Best Wausau Breweries
Among the most popular stops is Red Eye Brewing Company, a downtown favorite known for its rotating craft beer selection, wood-fired pizza, and lively beer garden. Visitors can sample a variety of styles while enjoying a welcoming social atmosphere. Bull Falls Brewery, one of the area’s longtime brewing establishments, offers approachable lagers, ales, and porters that showcase traditional Wisconsin brewing.
Just outside the city, Mosinee Brewing Company features creative seasonal beers and small-batch releases served in a taproom built with locally sourced materials. Tribute Brewing Company offers a community-focused experience with a frequently changing tap list that highlights unique local creations.
After a day spent exploring Wausau Breweries and enjoying the best things to do in Wausau WI, Owl Ridge Cabin provides the perfect place to unwind. Located just minutes from downtown Wausau, our private, romantic Wisconsin cabin combines contemporary design, luxury amenities, and peaceful wooded surroundings. Guests can enhance their stay with a wine or beer, cheese, and charcuterie package featuring locally crafted beverages, or reserve a private candlelit culinary experience prepared by a local chef. For couples seeking a memorable Midwest weekend getaway, Owl Ridge Cabin offers an ideal blend of comfort, privacy, and convenient access to the area’s top attractions.
The Best Cape Cod Restaurants on the Water
Best Cape Cod Restaurants on the Water to Visit
From fresh seafood and scenic harbor views to unforgettable sunsets, the best Cape Cod restaurants on the Water offer an exceptional way to experience the Lower Cape. Whether you are planning a leisurely lunch after a day at the beach or a memorable evening overlooking the Atlantic, Harwich and Chatham are home to some of the region’s most celebrated waterfront dining destinations. With everything from casual seafood shacks to award-winning fine dining, there is something for every occasion.
Exploring things to do in Cape Cod naturally leads to great meals along the shoreline. Spend the day cycling the Cape Cod Rail Trail, visiting Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, exploring charming coastal towns, or enjoying a whale watching excursion before settling in for dinner with a waterfront view. These experiences, combined with outstanding local restaurants, make this stretch of Cape Cod a favorite destination for visitors seeking the best places to eat in Cape Cod.
Several restaurants have become local favorites for their combination of fresh ingredients, scenic settings, and welcoming hospitality. Brax Landing overlooks Saquatucket Harbor and is well known for lobster rolls, clam chowder, and harbor views. Sesuit Harbor Café offers a relaxed waterfront atmosphere where diners enjoy seafood baskets and lobster rolls beside the marina. The Ocean House pairs panoramic Nantucket Sound views with refined coastal cuisine, while The Marshside features expansive salt marsh views alongside fresh New England seafood. For an unforgettable evening, Beach House Grill overlooks Chatham Harbor and Twenty-Eight Atlantic provides an elevated dining experience with sweeping views of Pleasant Bay and an award-winning seasonal menu.
Stay at a Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast Near the Coast
After discovering the best waterfront restaurants near Harwich and Chatham, return to a luxurious Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast designed for relaxation. Located in West Harwich, our adults-only boutique inn places guests just minutes from many of the area’s premier dining destinations.
Each thoughtfully appointed guest room features coastal-inspired décor, luxury linens, private en-suite bathrooms, and modern comforts. Select accommodations include gas fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and private outdoor spaces for an even more relaxing stay. Every morning begins with a gourmet breakfast served in inviting indoor and outdoor spaces.
Guests can also enjoy a seasonally heated pool, beautifully landscaped gardens, outdoor gathering areas, and personalized concierge service to help arrange dinner reservations, outdoor adventures, and local excursions. Whether you are planning a best coast getaway focused on exceptional dining or exploring everything the Lower Cape has to offer, our Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast provides an ideal home base. Book your stay today and discover why Cape Cod restaurants on the Water remain one of the region’s most rewarding experiences.
The Best Colorado Mountain Towns to Visit This Year
Best Colorado Mountain Towns for Adventure
Colorado mountain towns offer some of the most dramatic landscapes and unforgettable experiences in the West, and Durango is the ideal starting point for discovering them. With a lively historic downtown, the Animas River flowing through the heart of town, and easy access to rugged peaks, there are so many things to do in Durango, CO. It’s one of the best mountain towns in Colorado for those seeking both culture and outdoor adventure.
From here, exploring other Colorado mountain towns is effortless. The Durango and Silverton Railroad winds through striking canyon landscapes, offering one of the most popular places in Colorado to experience historic travel and incredible Colorado scenery. Nearby Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reveals ancient Pueblo cliff dwellings and is considered one of the must-see places in Colorado.
Pagosa Springs invites visitors to soak in mineral-rich waters from the world’s deepest geothermal hot spring, often called The Mother Spring. After hiking Chimney Rock National Monument, relaxing in open-air pools framed by mountain views feels well earned. Silverton delivers high-alpine adventure, with hikes like the Ice Lakes Basin showcasing vibrant wildflowers and panoramic views. Its preserved Victorian buildings add to its appeal as one of the best cities to visit in Colorado for history and character.
Ouray, surrounded by dramatic peaks and waterfalls, is known for scenic drives and restorative hot springs. Cortez, Mancos, Ignacio, and Hesperus round out the region, offering small-town charm and access to some of the state’s richest archaeological and cultural sites. These small mountain towns in Colorado each contribute to a region filled with hidden gems in Colorado waiting to be explored.
Elevate Your Stay at a Durango Bed and Breakfast
After full days spent exploring Colorado mountain towns, retreat to Antlers on the Creek. This historic Durango Bed and Breakfast in Lightner Creek Canyon combines heritage with refined comfort. Guests enjoy personalized hospitality and gourmet breakfasts crafted by Chef Desirae, creating an experience that rivals the region’s top dining. For those planning an adventure-focused mountain getaway, pairing exceptional lodging with Southwest Colorado exploration makes all the difference. Reserve your stay and discover why Durango is the perfect home base for your next adventure.
The Best Day Trips from Exeter
Best Day Trips From Exeter for Romantic Coast Escapes
Exeter, New Hampshire, offers an ideal starting point for exploring the New Hampshire coast, with easy access to charming towns, scenic drives, and some of the most memorable places to visit in New Hampshire. Day trips from Exeter allow couples to experience a variety of Seacoast NH destinations, from historic waterfront cities to relaxed New Hampshire beach towns, all within a short drive. The variety of things to do in Exeter and nearby makes it a great choice for romantic getaways or longer New Hampshire vacations.
A visit to Portsmouth is one of the most rewarding day trips from Exeter. Just twenty minutes away, this lively coastal city features Market Square, where independent shops, cafés, and galleries create a vibrant atmosphere. The Strawberry Banke Museum offers a look into local history, while Prescott Park provides a peaceful waterfront setting for a walk together.
Hampton Beach is another favorite among New Hampshire vacation spots. Known for its wide sandy shoreline and classic boardwalk, it is a great place to enjoy ocean views, casual dining, and seasonal entertainment. For a quieter coastal experience, Newburyport, Massachusetts offers historic streets, boutique shopping, and scenic views along the Merrimack River, with nearby Plum Island adding a natural coastal escape.
A Refined Exeter Hotel for Seacoast Stays
York, Maine presents one of the most scenic options along the coast, where Nubble Lighthouse and Sohier Park offer sweeping ocean views. Kittery combines shopping and coastal history, while Manchester provides a change of pace with museums, dining, and cultural attractions. Explore the historic sites of Salem, Massachusetts, and Kennebunkport, which offer breathtaking coastal drives and quiet beaches.
After a full day exploring New Hampshire towns and the surrounding coast, returning to a centrally located Exeter Hotel enhances the experience. Guests can enjoy refined accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and a peaceful atmosphere that complements a day of travel. With its walkable downtown location and access to the best things to do on the Seacoast, Exeter remains a standout destination for romantic escapes and memorable day trips from Exeter.
The Best Elopement Packages in Maryland
The Best Elopement Packages in Maryland
Choosing to get married is one of life’s most meaningful decisions, and for many couples, an intimate celebration feels like the most honest way to begin married life. Exploring elopement packages in Maryland early in the planning process gives you space to design a day that reflects your relationship, not a rigid checklist. Eloping in Maryland allows couples to slow down, focus on their vows, and create a wedding experience that feels personal, intentional, and beautifully simple.
Even though elopements and micro weddings are smaller by design, they still include everything that makes a wedding unforgettable. Thoughtful florals, meaningful vows, professional photography, and a setting that feels elevated all come together without the stress of a large guest list. For couples seeking a refined yet relaxed experience, Maryland wedding venues along the Chesapeake Bay offer a stunning backdrop that feels special without being overdone.
One of the reasons couples gravitate toward elopements near Baltimore is the balance of accessibility and atmosphere. Waterfront views, polished ceremony spaces, and quiet surroundings create a destination feel while remaining easy for couples and their closest loved ones. When searching for small wedding venues in Maryland, it’s the attention to detail and sense of privacy that truly sets the experience apart.
A Romantic Stay at One of the Top Micro Wedding Venues
Where you stay matters just as much as where you say your vows. The best elopement packages in Maryland include on-site accommodations that allow the celebration to unfold naturally. Suites, private cottages, and inviting guest spaces make it easy to transition from ceremony to celebration without ever leaving the property. Instead of rushing off, couples can wake up together, enjoy quiet mornings, and ease into their first days of marriage.
These micro wedding venues in Maryland turn a wedding into a true getaway. After your ceremony, spend time exploring nearby waterfront towns, enjoying peaceful walks, or simply relaxing together. Rock Hall and the Eastern Shore are especially well suited for newlyweds who want a blend of calm moments and casual adventure, all framed by Chesapeake Bay sunsets.
Elopement packages in Maryland are ideal for couples who want a meaningful celebration without unnecessary complexity. With planning support, beautiful ceremony options, and a romantic place to stay, eloping becomes less about logistics and more about connection. If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding that feels thoughtful and elevated, this is the kind of experience that stays with you long after the day is over.
The Best Finger Lakes Wineries to Explore
Best Finger Lakes Wineries to Visit in Upstate New York
Exploring the best Finger Lakes wineries is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Upstate New York. With more than 100 wineries spread across Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, and the surrounding countryside, this region offers a wine experience that feels both refined and approachable. From cool-climate Rieslings to expressive rosés and sparkling wines, the Finger Lakes continue to earn national attention for quality and character.
The Finger Lakes AVA was established in 1982 and is often compared to notable German wine regions for its climate and soil. Deep, rocky soils and steep vineyard slopes along the lakes provide excellent drainage, while lake breezes help regulate temperatures during warmer months. These conditions make the area ideal for varietals like Riesling, Gewurztraminer, and other aromatic whites. This region is also known for Ice Wines, rich dessert wines where the grapes are allowed to freeze on the vine before harvest.
Wine tastings here are as much about the setting as the wine itself. Many wineries offer sweeping lake views, relaxed tasting rooms, and outdoor spaces designed for relaxing over a glass or a curated flight. Whether you prefer structured tastings or a casual afternoon with a bottle, wineries in the Finger Lakes deliver a polished yet welcoming experience.
Favorite stops include Fox Run Vineyards for food-and-wine pairings, Sheldrake Point Winery for sparkling wines and dry rosés, and Frontenac Point Vineyard & Estate for Cayuga Lake views just minutes from Trumansburg. On Seneca Lake, Ventosa Vineyards and Silver Thread Winery offer distinctive styles paired with memorable scenery. For travelers looking to sample multiple locations with ease, Finger Lakes wine tours provide guided access to both iconic and lesser-known producers.
Stay at a Luxury Boutique Hotel Near Finger Lakes Wineries
Pairing wine tastings with an elevated place to stay completes the experience. You’ll want to stay at a luxury boutique hotel in the Finger Lakes that offers thoughtfully designed guest suites, premium amenities, and a relaxed atmosphere to unwind after a day of tastings. Many guests enjoy bringing a favorite bottle back to their room or enjoying it on landscaped grounds.
From farm-to-table breakfasts to on-site spa treatments, a refined hotel stay allows you to experience the best Finger Lakes wineries at an unhurried pace. The Inn at Gothic Eves has all of this and more. Book your stay and plan a wine-focused getaway that blends exceptional vineyards with sophisticated comfort.
The Best Girls’ Weekend Getaway Near Seattle
Best Girls Weekend Getaway Near Seattle
Planning a girls’ weekend getaway near Seattle is about finding a place that feels like a true escape without requiring a long journey. Just a few hours from the city, the Columbia River Gorge offers dramatic mountain scenery, fresh air, and space to slow down together. It is the kind of setting where conversations last longer, laughter comes easier, and the weekend feels intentionally different from everyday life.
A girls’ getaway weekend in the Gorge naturally balances time outdoors with moments of indulgence. There’s no shortage of sensational things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, whether alone or with a group of friends. Days can begin with scenic hikes to waterfalls or relaxed walks through nearby vineyards overlooking the river. Hood River and White Salmon are close by, making it easy to plan wine tastings, casual lunches, and afternoons spent browsing local shops. These shared experiences turn a simple trip into one of the best girls’ weekend trips you’ll talk about long after you return home.
Luxury Cabins Designed for Girls’ Trips in Washington
Where you stay matters, especially for a girls’ weekend getaway. Our luxury cabin getaways in Washington are designed to support connection, with spacious layouts, cozy fireplaces, soaking tubs, and outdoor areas perfect for meaningful conversations. After a full day exploring, everyone can unwind with a soak enhanced by Dead Sea Bath Salts, or book an in-cabin massage for a little extra indulgence.
Evenings are made for gathering, whether that means dining at nearby local restaurants, enjoying a relaxed night in with wine and snacks, or ending the day around an outdoor fire pit. These moments often become the real gift of your girls’ trips, creating memories that feel richer than a quick dinner back home.
This is one of the best getaways near Seattle that offers such flexibility. Whether you plan full days of activity or let the weekend unfold slowly, leaving space for rest and connection, you’ll leave feeling refreshed and energized. That freedom is what makes this destination ideal for girlfriends looking to reconnect.
With so much to offer, the Columbia River Gorge really is a must-see destination in Washington State. Book your girls’ weekend getaway and give yourselves a reason to pause, reconnect, and enjoy the moment.
The Best Golf Course in Central Wisconsin
Best Blackwolf Run Golf Course Getaway in Wisconsin
For golfers planning a memorable weekend escape, the Blackwolf Run Golf Course in Kohler, Wisconsin, belongs at the top of the list. Known as one of the best golf courses in Wisconsin, this championship destination attracts players from across the Midwest with its scenic riverfront setting, challenging layouts, and rich tournament history. Whether you are an avid golfer or simply looking for unique things to do in Wisconsin, a visit to Blackwolf Run offers an exceptional experience.
Designed by legendary architect Pete Dye, Blackwolf Run Golf Course winds through meadows, wooded landscapes, and the Sheboygan River Valley. Golfers can choose from the River and Meadow Valleys courses, each offering distinct challenges shaped by dramatic elevation changes, natural terrain, and strategically placed hazards. The property also features The Baths, a unique 10-hole short course inspired by classic par-three designs and complemented by an expansive putting course.
The course has hosted several significant moments in championship golf, including two U.S. Women’s Open tournaments. Visitors can walk the same fairways where Se Ri Pak claimed her historic victory in 1998 and where Na Yeon Choi earned her first major championship in 2012. Beyond the championship pedigree, Blackwolf Run offers excellent practice facilities, dining options, and scenic views that enhance the overall experience.
A Relaxing Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin
After a day on one of the most famous Wisconsin golf courses, retreat to Hidden Serenity B&B Getaway & Spa in nearby West Bend. Located about 45 minutes from Kohler, this secluded bed and breakfast in Wisconsin offers a peaceful alternative to larger hotels. Guests can unwind in spacious accommodations featuring luxury jetted tubs, fireplaces, and premium linens.
The property provides plenty of opportunities to relax beyond the golf course. Couples can enjoy the private spa experience, complete with a sauna, steam room, jetted hot tub, cold deluge shower, and massage services. Outdoor activities include pickleball, biking, and a private hiking trail that winds through the countryside.
Each morning begins with a homemade three-course breakfast featuring favorites such as stuffed French toast, made-to-order omelets, German pancakes, and homemade maple syrup. Whether you are planning a golf-focused vacation or a romantic getaway in Wisconsin, combining Blackwolf Run Golf Course with a stay at Hidden Serenity creates the perfect weekend retreat.
The Best Guide to Vermont in the Fall
Why Vermont in the Fall Is Worth the Trip
There is a reason so many people plan their vacations around Vermont in the fall. The air turns crisp, and the hillsides burst into shades of red, orange, and gold. The crunch of leaves underfoot, the smell of woodsmoke drifting from nearby chimneys, and earlier sunsets all signal that autumn has arrived. The foliage may steal the spotlight, but it is only one reason to love this season. Vermont in the fall also means warm apple cider donuts, charming small towns, and scenic back roads that make you forget where you were headed in the first place.
Our corner of Vermont does fall especially well. Route 100 runs right past us, winding through covered bridges and mountain views on its way toward Weston, one of the most charming small towns in Vermont. A short drive away, you will find even more things to do in Woodstock, a beautiful historic town. Scenic drives, mountain hikes, and historic villages all sit within easy reach, making the Ludlow area one of the best places to visit in Vermont during autumn. Whatever you are after, there is no shortage of things to do in Vermont in the fall within a few minutes of Echo Lake Inn.
After a full day of leaf peeping, there is something to be said for coming back to a fire lit in the hearth and a home-cooked breakfast waiting the next morning. That is what awaits at our historic inn on Echo Lake. The hospitality, views, and proximity to the top things to do in Vermont in the fall are exactly why Echo Lake Inn is one of the best places to stay in Vermont for a fall getaway.
Explore Vermont in the Fall Like a Local
Vermont in the fall reaches its peak from late September into October, when brilliant foliage blankets the mountains and weekends become especially popular. Ludlow sits close to many of the best things to do in Vermont in the fall, most within a twenty-minute drive, making it easy to fit more than one destination into a single day.
Here is where we send guests when they ask what to do during their stay:
- Ride a scenic fall foliage train. Seasonal foliage excursions have operated through southern Vermont for years, with routes that have included Chester and the Okemo Valley. Schedules vary year to year, so check the current operating calendar before planning your visit.
- Hike or ride up Okemo Mountain. The Healdville Trail runs about six miles round trip with nearly 2,000 feet of elevation gain, ending at the historic Okemo fire tower with views of the southern Green Mountains and Mount Ascutney. If you would rather skip the climb, Okemo’s Sunburst Six chairlift typically operates on select fall weekends, weather permitting.
- Walk the trail to Buttermilk Falls. This short walk through Okemo State Forest leads to three waterfalls along Branch Brook. The lower falls sit just a short walk from the parking area, while a steeper trail continues to the upper cascades. Wear shoes with good traction, since wet leaves and rocks turn slippery in autumn.
- Take the gondola up Killington Peak. Rising to 4,241 feet, Killington Peak offers one of the highest lift-served viewpoints in the state. During fall, the K-1 Gondola carries visitors above the forest canopy for foliage views across the Green Mountains on a clear day.
- Spend an afternoon in Weston. One of the most charming small towns in Vermont, especially in autumn. Browse the Vermont Country Store, stroll the village green, visit local galleries, or catch a performance at the Weston Theater Company if one is scheduled.
- Visit the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site. Located in nearby Plymouth Notch, this preserved village is where President Calvin Coolidge was born and sworn into office in 1923. The site runs seasonally through mid-October, making Vermont in October one of the best times to see it with the historic buildings surrounded by peak foliage.
- Stop by Plymouth Artisan Cheese. Established in 1890, this cheesemaker continues the tradition that began during the Coolidge era. Sampling heritage cheddar while learning about the area’s agricultural history makes for one of the more unique things to do in Vermont between Ludlow and Woodstock.
- Watch glassblowing at Simon Pearce. Watching artisans transform molten glass into finished pieces is fascinating any time of year, especially on a cool fall afternoon. Stay for lunch or dinner overlooking the Ottauquechee River and waterfall.
- Grab lunch at Long Trail Brewing. Located in nearby Bridgewater Corners, seasonal beers, hearty pub fare, and outdoor seating over the Ottauquechee River make this a great stop after a morning hike.
Bring a light jacket for cool mornings, comfortable shoes for hiking and village walks, and a little flexibility so you can stop whenever another scenic overlook catches your eye.
Experience One of the Best Places to Stay in Vermont
After a day exploring fall in Vermont, there is nothing quite like returning to Echo Lake Inn. Originally built in the 1840s, our historic inn combines classic New England character with the amenities that make Vermont in the fall even more enjoyable. Every guest room has its own personality, and some feature gas fireplaces or jacuzzi tubs, especially welcome after a cool afternoon outdoors. Before dinner, relax in our pub, challenge the family to a game, or simply enjoy the peaceful setting overlooking Echo Lake.
Mornings begin with a hearty, made-to-order breakfast included with your stay. In the evening, our restaurant showcases seasonal ingredients sourced from Vermont farms whenever possible. Beyond the dining room, guests enjoy lake access with complimentary kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and tennis and pickleball courts.
Book Your Fall Getaway at Echo Lake Inn
If you are searching for one of the best places to stay in Vermont, Echo Lake Inn puts you minutes from the region’s most popular fall attractions while giving you a warm place to return to at the end of the day. Book your fall getaway at Echo Lake Inn and come experience Vermont in the fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should you stay in Vermont in the fall?
The Ludlow and Plymouth area makes an excellent base, putting Echo Lake Inn within a twenty-minute drive of Okemo Mountain, Killington Peak, Weston, and the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site.
What is the best time to visit Vermont?
Late September into October is generally considered the best time to visit Vermont, when fall foliage reaches its peak across the Green Mountains.
What is there to do in Vermont in October?
October offers peak foliage viewing, foliage train rides, the Calvin Coolidge State Historic Site before it closes for the season, and small-town stops like Weston and Woodstock.
When is peak fall foliage in Vermont?
Peak fall foliage in the Ludlow area typically arrives in the first two to three weeks of October, though timing shifts slightly each year depending on weather.