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The Best Ithaca NY Waterfall
Hike the Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail
If you are planning an adventure in the Finger Lakes, few experiences compare to a visit to the Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail. Located within Taughannock Falls State Park near Trumansburg, this accessible trail leads visitors directly to the base of Taughannock Falls, a dramatic 215-foot single-drop waterfall that stands taller than Niagara Falls. Frequently recognized as one of the most impressive Finger Lakes waterfalls, it is also a leading choice for travelers searching for the best Ithaca NY waterfall.
The Taughannock Falls Gorge Trail spans approximately 1.5 miles round trip and follows a mostly flat path through a striking rock gorge. Along the way, Taughannock Creek winds beside the trail, while towering cliff walls create a memorable setting that feels surprisingly remote despite being only a short drive from Ithaca. The easy terrain makes this Taughannock Falls hike appealing for visitors of all experience levels.
To make the most of your visit, consider starting early in the morning when the trail is often quieter, and the sunlight highlights the textures and colors of the gorge walls. After reaching the falls, continue exploring Taughannock Falls State Park by visiting the Taughannock Falls overlook via the North Rim Trail or South Rim Trail. These elevated viewpoints provide a completely different perspective of the waterfall and surrounding forest.
Beyond the falls themselves, there are countless things to do near Ithaca and throughout the Finger Lakes. From wineries and lakeside activities to charming small towns and scenic drives, the region offers more than enough attractions for a full weekend getaway.
Stay at One of the Finest Finger Lakes Hotels
A day spent exploring Taughannock State Park is even better when paired with exceptional accommodations nearby. The Inn at Gothic Eves offers guests a refined retreat close to the park, making it easy to return from the trail and unwind in comfort. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms feature upscale amenities, including fireplaces, soaking tubs, and steam showers in select accommodations.
Guests can also enjoy the property’s on-site spa, which sets the lodging property apart from other Finger Lakes Hotels. Farm-to-table breakfasts featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients help prepare visitors for another day of exploring the region.
Whether you are discovering Taughannock Falls for the first time or returning for another visit, the natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and welcoming hospitality makes this destination one of the best places to experience the Finger Lakes. Book your stay today.
The Best Kayaking at Woods Lake Park & More in Kalamazoo
Best Woods Lake Park Kayaking and Outdoor Adventures
For those looking to enjoy a summer adventure in southwest Michigan, Woods Lake Park offers a lovely outdoor experience. Located just minutes from downtown Kalamazoo, this popular destination offers peaceful lake scenery, convenient water access, and proximity to the broader Kalamazoo River system. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or searching for new things to do in Kalamazoo, a day on the water is an excellent way to experience the region.
Woods Lake Park is especially popular among kayakers, canoeists, and paddleboarders. The calm waters of Woods Lake create an inviting environment for beginners while still offering plenty of enjoyment for experienced paddlers. During the summer months, visitors can spend hours exploring the shoreline, observing wildlife, and enjoying the quiet atmosphere that makes this park a favorite among locals.
For those interested in kayaking on the Kalamazoo River, The Kalamazoo River Water Trail offers miles of scenic paddling opportunities through wetlands, wooded areas, and natural habitats. Depending on your route, you can enjoy a short outing or spend an entire day exploring southwest Michigan’s waterways.
Nearby destinations such as Mayor’s Riverfront Park, Lake/Kensington Park, Verburg Park, and Markin Glen County Park offer additional opportunities for kayaking, fishing, hiking, and other outdoor recreation. Together, these locations make Kalamazoo a great destination for visitors who enjoy active outdoor adventures.
Stay at One of the Best Hotels in Kalamazoo
After a day spent exploring Woods Lake Park or paddling along the Kalamazoo River, The Kalamazoo House offers a comfortable place to relax and recharge. It’s one of the only true boutique hotels in Kalamazoo! Located in a historic neighborhood near downtown, this boutique hotel combines classic architecture with modern comforts.
Guests enjoy thoughtfully appointed rooms, welcoming hospitality, and a multi-course breakfast featuring local and seasonal ingredients. For couples planning a summer getaway, this downtown Kalamazoo property offers easy access to many of the area’s most popular outdoor activities while providing a peaceful retreat at the end of the day.
The Best Lodging Near the University of Montana for Campus Visits
Why Blue Mountain Is the Right Base for Your Campus Visit
Lodging near University of Montana does not have to mean staying in a standard hotel. Some of our favorite guests come to Missoula for the university, including parents visiting current students, families on campus tours, alumni back for a Grizzlies game, and loved ones celebrating graduation. Our guests get to campus in about fifteen minutes, then return to twenty acres of ponderosa pine, views of the Bitterroot River Valley, and a delicious breakfast each morning. If you are looking for Missoula lodging near University of Montana with easy access to campus and an authentic Montana setting, you have come to the right place.
The university is often the reason people visit, but with so many things to do in Missoula, it is rarely the reason they fall for the place. Grizzly football Saturdays spill into downtown, where you can walk from a morning at the Clark Fork River Market (seasonal) to an afternoon float on the Clark Fork River. Hike the “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel for the classic view over campus or venture to other hiking spots in Montana, then spend the evening exploring the best Missoula breweries. If you are looking for where to stay in Missoula, Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast puts downtown, hiking trails, and the river within easy reach without planting you in the middle of the bustle.
We are a short drive from campus, but our mornings start with a made-from-scratch breakfast overlooking the valley. If you are comparing places to stay in Missoula, Montana, and you want somewhere that feels like Montana rather than another hotel off the interstate, book your stay today and find out what makes us the best lodging near University of Montana.
Where to Find the Best Lodging Near the University of Montana
If you are comparing lodging near University of Montana, convenience matters. We are about a fifteen-minute drive from campus, twenty minutes from Washington-Grizzly Stadium, and just off Highway 93 between Missoula and Lolo. Missoula Montana Airport is also about twenty-five minutes away, making arrivals and departures just as convenient as getting to campus. Our twenty acres adjoin Lolo National Forest and are certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat, offering birdsong, mountain views, and the soothing sound of the waterfall in our water gardens. Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast is ranked the #1 Bed and Breakfast in Missoula on TripAdvisor, where guests consistently praise the breakfasts, scenery, and personalized hospitality.
University visits often leave time to experience more than campus. From here, you are just minutes from downtown Missoula’s restaurants, breweries, local shops, the Clark Fork River Trail, and the seasonal Clark Fork Market. If you are staying an extra day, Missoula also makes an excellent base for exploring western Montana, from scenic drives through the Bitterroot Valley to Travelers’ Rest State Park, Lolo Pass, and the CSKT Bison Range. That is one of the advantages of choosing lodging near University of Montana. You are close to campus while having easy access to many of western Montana’s top attractions.
If you are comparing places to stay in Missoula, Montana, you will quickly notice that most options are traditional hotels. Here, you will stay in one of five guest rooms spread across two log buildings, the Lewis and Clark Lodge and Hawk Hill House. Every room has a private bath with a jetted tub, a king or queen bed, a smart TV for your streaming accounts, and picture windows overlooking the mountains or gardens. The Lodge’s top floor is a favorite gathering spot, with billiards, board games, a library filled with books on Montana history, and views of the Bitterroot River Valley.
Every day begins with a full, made-from-scratch breakfast, with a menu that changes throughout your stay. Throughout the inn, you will find western art, family heirlooms, and pieces of Montana history that reflect the place we have called home for generations. After welcoming University of Montana visitors for nearly two decades, we have learned that some of the best memories happen after campus. We are always happy to recommend a scenic drive through the Bitterroot Valley, a favorite hiking trail, a local coffee shop, or a brewery depending on how much time you have.
A few planning notes: book well ahead for Grizzly home football weekends, commencement in May, family weekends, and summer orientation dates, since our five rooms fill quickly. If you are comparing cool places to stay in Missoula, MT, or weighing lodging near Missoula against the chain hotels by the interstate, we think you will appreciate the unique nature of our property.
Why Blue Mountain Is One of the Best Places to Stay in Missoula, Montana
One of our favorite things about hosting university guests is how often we get to say welcome back to our lodging in Missoula. The campus tour becomes freshman move-in, move-in becomes parents’ weekend, and four years later the same family is here for graduation. The university keeps giving people reasons to return to Missoula, and we love being the place they return to. Your stay gives back to this community, too. Every booking supports organizations we are proud to contribute to, including the University of Montana Alumni Band Association, Travelers’ Rest State Park, and the Tamarack Grief Resource Center, which helps children and families who have lost someone close.
Book Your Campus Visit Today
Wherever you are in that university journey, we would be glad to be part of it. Check availability and book your stay at Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the University of Montana located?
The University of Montana is located in Missoula, Montana, about a fifteen-minute drive from Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast.
What is there to do in Missoula, MT?
Missoula offers Grizzly football at Washington-Grizzly Stadium, floating and hiking along the Clark Fork River, the “M” Trail on Mount Sentinel, downtown breweries, and scenic drives through the Bitterroot Valley.
How far is Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast from campus?
Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast sits about a fifteen-minute drive from the University of Montana campus and twenty minutes from Washington-Grizzly Stadium.
Where should you stay for a University of Montana campus visit?
Blue Mountain Bed and Breakfast, ranked the #1 Bed and Breakfast in Missoula on TripAdvisor, offers an easy fifteen-minute drive to campus along with an authentic Montana setting away from chain hotels.
The Best of Canyon Road’s Art in Santa Fe
Best Canyon Road Art Galleries to Visit in Santa Fe
Canyon Road is one of the many things that make Santa Fe instantly iconic. Lined with adobe architecture, tucked-away courtyards, and more than a hundred galleries, it anchors the Santa Fe art district and turns an ordinary walk into a full weekend itinerary. If “see what’s new” and “discover something you’ll keep forever” are your travel priorities, Canyon Road is where to start.
From the historic Plaza, Canyon Road is an easy walk, about fifteen minutes on foot, and it is just as simple to reach by car. Parking is available along the road and on nearby side streets, and a local shuttle can drop you off at several points along the way. Many visitors still prefer to arrive on foot because the route offers an easy introduction to Santa Fe’s blend of art, design, and daily life.
Once you are there, the variety is the point. Canyon Road art galleries showcase everything from contemporary work to classic Southwestern traditions, with paintings, sculpture, photography, ceramics, and jewelry often presented inside intimate, light-filled spaces. Step through a doorway and you might find a quiet courtyard with outdoor installations, a seating area, and one more gallery entrance you did not expect.
A Santa Fe lodging option that keeps it effortless
After a day of gallery hopping, dining, and enjoying one of the most iconic things to do in Santa Fe, it helps to stay close to the places you want to explore. Our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe offers eight distinct guest suites, inviting patios, and personalized hospitality that makes a weekend getaway feel easy from the first morning. Start the day with a gourmet breakfast buffet made with fresh local ingredients, then return later for light refreshments and a calm place to reset before dinner.
When you are ready to eat on Canyon Road, you can keep it elevated or casual. Geronimo is a standout for refined dining, while Cafe Greco offers a relaxed option when you want something simple between gallery stops. Events add another layer throughout the year, from art walks and openings to seasonal celebrations like the Canyon Road Farolito Walk. However you spend your time, Canyon Road is a Santa Fe essential, and a smart centerpiece for a weekend getaway.
The Best of Winter in the Shenandoah Valley
Best Things to Do in the Shenandoah Valley This Winter
Winter brings a quieter, more intimate side of the Shenandoah Valley, making it an ideal time to slow down and experience the region at your own pace. With fewer crowds and crisp mountain air, winter in the Shenandoah Valley highlights scenic beauty, rich history, and a long list of activities that feel even more special this time of year.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do in the Shenandoah Valley in winter. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer peaceful winter hiking, scenic overlooks, and wildlife viewing made better by unobstructed views. Popular trails like Crabtree Falls take on a new personality when dusted with snow, while nearby routes in Staunton and Lexington offer easier walks close to town. After snowfall, select areas even open for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.
If exploring charming towns is more your speed, downtown Staunton and Lexington deliver memorable winter experiences. Both are known for boutique shopping, historic architecture, and standout dining, making them excellent stops for a relaxed afternoon. Cultural highlights like performances at the American Shakespeare Center add another layer to winter visits, especially during seasonal productions.
Where to Stay for a Winter Shenandoah Valley Getaway
After full days exploring, where you stay becomes part of the experience. Choosing Steeles Tavern Manor, a leading romantic Bed and Breakfast in Virginia, offers a more personal way to enjoy winter in the Shenandoah Valley. From spacious guest rooms with fireplaces to private cabins in Virginia designed for quiet evenings, the right accommodations elevate the entire trip.
Travelers seeking privacy often gravitate toward Shenandoah Valley cabins, especially those with hot tubs, kitchens, and fireplaces. These spaces allow you to enjoy winter nights on your own schedule while still being close to the area’s top attractions. A Virginia Bed and Breakfast experience adds the bonus of thoughtful hospitality and freshly prepared breakfasts to start each day.
Winter is also an ideal season to focus on rest and relaxation. Onsite spa services, scenic views of the surrounding mountains, and inviting common areas encourage guests to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you spend the day exploring or staying in, winter in the Shenandoah Valley offers flexibility and comfort.
With so many things to do in the Shenandoah Valley this winter and inviting lodging options waiting at the end of the day, planning a seasonal mountain getaway has never felt more rewarding.
The Best Place to Enjoy Winter in Colorado
Best Winter in Colorado Trips for December
Durango is one of the best places to experience winter in Colorado, especially for travelers seeking a romantic mountain escape. December transforms this southwest Colorado town into a snowy playground filled with alpine scenery, festive charm, and memorable outdoor adventures. From powdery downhill runs to peaceful forest trails, Durango brings together everything people love about Colorado winters in one welcoming destination.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless ways to enjoy the season. Purgatory Ski Resort is a favorite starting point, offering skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowmobiling surrounded by dramatic alpine views. If you prefer gliding across quiet landscapes, the Durango Nordic Center provides more than 20 kilometers of groomed cross-country trails along with lessons, rentals, and family-friendly programs. The peaceful, snow-covered forests and mountain vistas create an ideal setting for beginners and seasoned skiers alike.
Beyond the trails, Durango offers lively December experiences that highlight the magic of the season. Ride the historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for holiday-themed excursions, visit the Durango Dog Ranch for an unforgettable dogsled outing, or unwind in the warm mineral pools at Durango Hot Springs. Couples especially appreciate the combination of crisp winter days and cozy après-ski experiences that make the area perfect for romantic winter getaways.
Stay at the Best Durago Lodging this Winter
When your day winds down, our elevated Durango Lodging offers the comfort, warmth, and hospitality that elevate your winter stay. Just minutes from downtown Durango yet surrounded by natural beauty, this Historic Bed and Breakfast offers a refined, peaceful home base close to the best things to do in Durango, CO!
Each guest room offers luxurious bedding, fireplaces, and private baths, creating a restful space to recharge after a snow-filled day. Mornings begin with a chef-prepared breakfast made with local ingredients, and thoughtful add-ons help customize your stay. For an unforgettable evening, the Chef’s Table Dinner Experience for Two brings elevated dining directly to the inn, perfect for couples seeking a romantic touch.
With easy access to skiing, Nordic trails, hot springs, and festive holiday events, Antlers on the Creek offers a winter in Colorado experience that guests return to year after year. Now is the perfect time to plan your December mountain getaway in Durango.
The Best Places to Eat in Albuquerque
Restaurants in Albuquerque Near Old Town
When visitors begin researching the best restaurants in Albuquerque, Old Town is often where the conversation starts. The city’s food scene combines deep New Mexican culinary traditions with contemporary dining, creating an experience that feels distinctly tied to the Southwest. From historic adobe dining rooms to lively food halls, there is no shortage of memorable places to eat in Albuquerque during a weekend couples’ getaway.
Old Town restaurants reflect the city’s layered history and culture. High Noon Restaurant and Saloon remains one of the most established dining destinations in the district, serving premium steaks, wild game, and classic Southwestern cocktails inside one of the oldest buildings in Albuquerque. Nearby, Seasons Rotisserie and Grill brings a more modern approach with refined seasonal dishes, an extensive wine list, and a rooftop cantina known for live jazz and mountain views on weekend evenings.
For guests celebrating a special occasion, Antiquity Restaurant continues to rank among the best restaurants in Albuquerque for its intimate atmosphere, expertly prepared steaks, fresh seafood, and impressive wine cellar. Those looking for lighter fare often gravitate toward Vinaigrette, where locally sourced ingredients and creative salads highlight the region’s agricultural roots.
No guide to restaurants in Old Town would be complete without authentic New Mexican cuisine. Garduños serves longtime regional favorites including huevos rancheros, tamales, enchiladas, and chile rellenos, giving visitors a true taste of local flavors. Lescombes Winery and Bistro adds another layer to the city’s dining scene with comforting bistro dishes paired alongside New Mexico wines in a welcoming tasting room environment.
Outside of Old Town, Sawmill Market has quickly become one of the most talked-about places to eat in Albuquerque. The large indoor food hall gathers local vendors serving wood-fired pizza, ramen, pastries, coffee, and regional specialties under one roof. Its lively atmosphere makes it especially popular for casual weekend dining.
Stay Near Albuquerque’s Top Dining Spots
After exploring the best restaurants in Albuquerque, retreat to a beautifully restored Bed and Breakfast located in Old Town. Staying within walking distance of restaurants, galleries, and historic landmarks makes it easy to experience the city. Guests can begin each morning with a gourmet breakfast before heading out to discover more of the celebrated dining scene and the best things to do in Albuquerque.
The Best Places to Visit in Florida for Couples
Best Places to Visit in Florida: Flagler Beach
Florida offers no shortage of sunshine, but couples looking for a relaxed, memorable escape often seek destinations that feel easy rather than overly planned. When exploring places to visit in Florida for couples, Flagler Beach stands out for its uncrowded shoreline, scenic drives, and welcoming coastal rhythm. Located between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, this area makes an ideal base for couples who want beach time balanced with thoughtful day trips.
Flagler Beach appeals to couples who enjoy variety without the pressure of a packed itinerary. Morning beach walks, afternoons spent browsing local shops, and evenings filled with fresh seafood and ocean views create a natural flow. Scenic drives along A1A offer uninterrupted coastal scenery, while nearby parks and preserves provide opportunities to explore nature together. For couples seeking hidden romantic getaways in Florida, the pace here feels refreshingly personal.
Relaxing Hotels in Flagler Beach for Romantic Getaways
A couples-focused Florida vacation feels complete at Island Cottage Inn. This boutique hotel offers a welcoming retreat just steps from the shoreline, giving couples a quiet place to unwind after exploring. Known for stylish rooms and coastal décor, this boutique property is one of the most inviting hotels in Flagler Beach for couples who appreciate comfort and thoughtful details.
Days in Flagler Beach can be as active or relaxed as you like. Paddle along the Intracoastal Waterway, visit Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, or explore historic sites like Bulow Plantation Ruins. Golf courses, museums, and state parks nearby allow couples to shape a trip that fits their interests without long drives or complicated planning.
Evenings are best spent enjoying beachfront dining, sunset views, or returning to the inn for quiet time together. With amenities like a private beach walkover and provided beach essentials, the experience feels effortless. Many couples find that these simple touches turn a short escape into one of their favorite romantic getaways in Florida. If you’re planning a couples getaway and searching for the best places to visit in Florida for couples, Flagler Beach offers a coastal experience that feels both relaxed and memorable.
The Best Places to Visit in Iowa: Lake Okoboji
Best Places to Visit in Iowa for a Midwest Escape
When people search for the best places to visit in Iowa, Lake Okoboji consistently rises to the top of the list. Known as the center of the Iowa Great Lakes region, this vibrant lake destination blends outdoor recreation, local entertainment, and classic Midwest charm, especially during spring and summer.
Lake Okoboji, with its East and West segments, is one of Iowa’s most popular lakes. Clear blue water sets the stage for boating, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Visitors can rent a pontoon for the afternoon, kayak along the shoreline, or board the Queen II for a scenic cruise. Public beaches like Gull Point State Park and Marble Beach State Park offer sandy stretches and peaceful hiking trails, creating the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
Beyond the water, you will find some of the top Iowa attractions. Arnolds Park Amusement Park delivers lakeside nostalgia with classic rides and live concerts at Preservation Plaza. Scenic biking and walking trails weave through the region, connecting lakes, parks, and nearby towns. For food lovers, waterfront restaurants serve everything from casual lakeside fare to elevated dining with sunset views. Add in farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and the Okoboji Summer Theater, and it is easy to see why this area ranks among the most unique places to visit in Iowa.
Stay at One of the Best Okoboji Hotels
Where you stay is an important part of the experience. The Oakwood Inn is one of the best Okoboji hotels for those who want proximity to Lake Okoboji without the noise of peak summer crowds. This adults-only boutique property offers a quiet retreat just minutes from the action.
Guest rooms are designed for comfort, and the trail system begins right outside the property, making morning walks or bike rides effortless. Each day starts with a home-cooked breakfast featuring award-winning recipes. Pet-friendly accommodations and welcoming hospitality make it easy to settle in and stay awhile.
If you are planning to discover the best things to do in Iowa this spring or summer, make Lake Okoboji your home base. Book your stay and experience one of the best places to visit in Iowa firsthand.