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The Best San Juan Island Kayak Tours
Kayaking on San Juan Island: Vetted Local Companies
The Salish Sea around San Juan Island is some of the calmest, most sheltered paddling water in the Pacific Northwest, and it’s easy to see why kayaking on San Juan Island is one of the most popular things to do in Friday Harbor. Quiet inlets, protected coves, and a healthy population of seals, bald eagles, and the occasional resident orca make this a paddling destination that rewards both beginners and experienced kayakers looking to go it alone.
Why San Juan Island Is Built for Kayaking
San Juan Island is the second largest in the archipelago, which gives kayakers plenty of protected shoreline to launch from. Confident paddlers can head out on self-guided trips through the quieter bays, but given the proximity to shipping lanes and the international border, most visitors are better served booking a guided San Juan Island kayak tour, especially on a first visit. Guided trips run from three-hour outings to multi-day camping excursions, so there’s an option whether you have an afternoon free or an entire week.
Top Kayak Tour Operators on San Juan Island
San Juan Island Outfitters runs small-group excursions led by experienced naturalist guides, with whale-watching-focused trips a particular highlight since sightings from a kayak feel entirely different than from a boat deck.
Crystal Seas has operated in the islands since the mid-1990s and offers everything from a flexible three-hour tour to multi-day and custom family trips, with guides who often hold degrees in marine or biological sciences.
Discovery Sea Kayaks is a longtime, locally owned operator known for half-day, full-day, and overnight camping tours, including a nighttime bioluminescence trip that shows the water glittering under the paddle in a way daylight tours simply can’t match.
Stay Close to the Water at Our Friday Harbor Lodging
Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites sit within walking distance of where most San Juan Island kayak tours launch, making this one of the more convenient spots for Friday Harbor lodging if paddling is the reason for your trip. Guests have access to complimentary kayaks and bikes for exploring on their own schedule, and the innkeepers are happy to arrange tour reservations with any of the operators above before you arrive.
Each morning starts with a scratch-made breakfast built around local ingredients, delivered right to your door so you have the fuel to spend the day on the water. Rooms, suites, and cottages across our 18 units suit couples, families, and pet-friendly travelers alike, with jacuzzi tubs, fireplaces, and water views available in select accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear kayaking on San Juan Island?
Dress in layers, since mornings on the Salish Sea run cooler than afternoons. Quick-dry clothing, closed-toe water shoes, and sun protection cover most conditions.
What should I bring on a San Juan Island kayak tour?
Your outfitter provides the kayak, paddle, and safety equipment. Bring layered clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and water, plus ginger chews if you’re prone to seasickness.
Is kayaking on San Juan Island safe for beginners?
Yes, with a guide. The protected inlets are gentle for new paddlers, though proximity to shipping lanes and open water makes a guided tour the safer choice for anyone unfamiliar with the area.
Where do San Juan Island kayak tours launch from?
Most tour operators launch from Friday Harbor itself, within easy walking distance of downtown lodging, restaurants, and the ferry terminal.
Can you see whales while kayaking on San Juan Island?
Resident and transient orca pods move through these waters, and sightings from a kayak happen, though they’re never guaranteed on any single trip.
What to do on San Juan Island besides kayaking?
Whale watching boat tours, hiking, and downtown Friday Harbor’s shops and restaurants round out most itineraries alongside a day on the water.
The Best Santa Fe Train Rides
Why a Santa Fe Train Ride Belongs on Your Itinerary
The Santa Fe train experience is a major part of the city’s history. For more than a century, the Santa Fe train carried artists, scientists, and presidents into northern New Mexico. Today you can choose your own version of a Santa Fe train ride: an entertainment train rolling out of the Railyard with live music and a bar car, a historic narrow gauge steam route climbing through the mountains a couple of hours north, or a commuter line that turns the trip to Albuquerque into part of the fun. Between Sky Railway, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, and the Rail Runner Express, some of the best scenic train rides in the Southwest begin within easy reach of downtown Santa Fe, making a train ride the centerpiece of any scenic getaway here.
Apart from riding a Santa Fe train, there are so many other things to do in Santa Fe that a weekend rarely feels long enough. Beer lovers can spend an afternoon in the taproom at Santa Fe Brewing Company. Families will find plenty on our list of the best things to do in Santa Fe with kids, from hands-on museums to easy outdoor adventures. Art comes standard here, and the Canyon Road art tour packs numerous galleries into a half-mile stroll. When you are ready to venture farther, the best day trips from Santa Fe reach ghost towns, hot springs, and high-desert villages within an easy drive.
After a day on the rails, you will want to return to a comfortable place to stay. Our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe is just steps from the Plaza and an easy stroll from the Railyard depot, where both Sky Railway and the Rail Runner depart. Start with a homemade breakfast on the patio, ride the rails, and come back to one of six rooms filled with art from the region.
The Best Santa Fe Train Rides and How to Choose the Right One
Each Santa Fe train experience offers something different, and together they showcase the full range of train rides in New Mexico. Whether you are looking for a lively evening, a full day behind a historic steam locomotive, or a relaxing ride to Albuquerque, each option follows rail lines with remarkable history.
Sky Railway is the entertainment train, running beautifully restored passenger cars between Santa Fe and Lamy with live music, themed entertainment, and a full bar on board. Most excursions last about two and a half to three hours, making them easy to fit into a weekend getaway. The calendar rotates through themed rides, including sunset cocktail experiences, wine and local beer tastings, stargazing trips beneath New Mexico’s dark skies, margarita rides, and the popular Outlaw Express featuring a Wild West show through the Galisteo Basin. The railroad was revived in 2020 by a group of Santa Feans, including author George R.R. Martin, which is why the locomotives are painted with a wolf and a dragon. Trains depart from the historic Santa Fe Depot in the Railyard, just a short walk from downtown.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the ultimate day trip and one of the best scenic train rides in North America. Designated a National Historic Landmark, it is the longest, highest, and most authentic steam railroad in North America. The steam train covers 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, crossing the state line 11 times as it climbs to the 10,015-foot summit of Cumbres Pass, passes through two tunnels, and crosses the 137-foot Cascade Trestle. Riders regularly spot elk, deer, antelope, eagles, and occasionally even bears along the route. USA Today readers have voted it one of America’s best scenic railroads multiple times.
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express is the practical option, connecting Santa Fe with Albuquerque and communities throughout the corridor to Belen. Fares are zone-based, and tickets are available online. The Santa Fe Depot sits in the heart of the Railyard next to the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, making it easy to board after breakfast.
If you are choosing just one, here is how we usually describe them to guests. Book Sky Railway for a memorable evening close to town, save the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for when you have a full day and want one of the very best train rides in New Mexico, and think of the Rail Runner as transportation that happens to include wonderful scenery. Both Sky Railway and the Cumbres & Toltec often sell out during the busiest seasons, especially on fall weekends when the aspens begin changing color, so reserving in advance is a good idea.
Where to Stay Near the Santa Fe Train Depot
Whichever Santa Fe train experience you choose, Four Kachinas Inn makes the rest of the trip easy. Located about a 20-minute walk from the Railyard depot, you can board Sky Railway or the Rail Runner without ever moving your vehicle. The inn’s six guest rooms are spread across three buildings and feature original and regional artwork, handcrafted furnishings, and traditional New Mexican architecture.
Mornings here set you up perfectly for a day on the rails. Breakfast is served each morning and includes a hot entrée, fresh fruit, home-baked goods, cereals, yogurts, juices, tea, and freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy breakfast in the dining room or on the patio before heading out for your Santa Fe train adventure.
Book Your Scenic Getaway to Santa Fe
After the rails bring you back to town, the peaceful garden courtyard awaits a quiet evening beneath the Santa Fe sky. Book your stay at Four Kachinas Inn and begin your scenic getaway on a Santa Fe train.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a train from Albuquerque to Santa Fe?
Yes. The New Mexico Rail Runner Express connects Santa Fe with Albuquerque and communities throughout the corridor to Belen, with zone-based fares available online.
Where does the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad run?
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, climbing to the 10,015-foot summit of Cumbres Pass.
Where does Sky Railway depart from in Santa Fe?
Sky Railway departs from the historic Santa Fe Depot in the Railyard, a short walk from downtown Santa Fe and from Four Kachinas Inn.
Where should you stay for a Santa Fe train getaway?
Four Kachinas Inn sits about a 20-minute walk from the Railyard depot, making it easy to board Sky Railway or the Rail Runner Express without moving your car.
The Best Ski Getaway in the Midwest
Best Midwest Ski Resort in Wausau, Wisconsin
A winter escape to Granite Peak Ski Area delivers the kind of skiing experience travelers seek when planning a Midwest mountain getaway. Located just outside downtown Wausau, Granite Peak Ski Area stands out among ski resorts in Wisconsin for its impressive vertical, modern lift system, and dependable snow conditions throughout winter. With long runs, varied terrain, and night skiing, it offers an experience that feels elevated without feeling overcomplicated.
Granite Peak Wisconsin rises to nearly 1,950 feet, offering about 700 feet of vertical drop and close to 70 trails spread across more than 400 skiable acres. This creates a top-to-bottom experience that feels satisfying by Midwest standards. Skiers and riders can move seamlessly between wide cruising trails, beginner-friendly runs, challenging steeps, glades, and terrain parks designed for all progression levels. Extensive snowmaking ensures reliable conditions from early winter through spring, making it a strong choice for anyone planning a winter getaway focused on skiing in Wisconsin.
Night skiing is another highlight. With many trails lit after sunset, it is easy to extend your day on the slopes, then head back into town to enjoy even more things to do in Wausau, including dining, shopping, breweries, and arts scene. This balance between mountain time and city energy is what sets Granite Peak apart from many ski hills in Wisconsin.
Luxury Lodging Near Granite Peak Ski Area
To match the quality of your days on the mountain, where you stay matters. The Stewart Inn consistently ranks among the best hotels in Wausau, offering a refined yet comfortable home base for winter ski trips. This luxury boutique inn blends historic Prairie-style architecture with thoughtful modern amenities, creating a stay that feels personal and polished.
After skiing, unwind in well-appointed guest rooms, many featuring fireplaces or steam showers, and enjoy elevated touches like gourmet breakfast and evening wine and cheese. Located near downtown, the Stewart Inn allows easy access to Wausau’s best restaurants and attractions, while Granite Peak Ski Area is only a short drive away. Pairing one of the best Wisconsin ski resorts with one of the city’s top lodging options turns a ski trip into a complete winter getaway worth repeating.
The Best Snowshoeing in the Mad River Valley
Best Winter Adventure for Snowshoeing in Vermont
Snowshoeing in Vermont is one of the most rewarding ways to experience winter in the Green Mountains. Flexible, approachable, and well-suited for all ability levels, snowshoeing allows travelers to explore terrain that feels quiet and untouched, even during peak winter months. The Mad River Valley stands out as a premier destination for winter adventure, offering access to scenic trails, guided experiences, and protected forest land.
The region features a wide variety of snowshoeing trails, from gentle routes near village centers to backcountry terrain within the Green Mountain National Forest. Popular routes include sections of the Long Trail, the Catamount Trail, and lesser known paths that wind through forests and open meadows. Many visitors also enjoy snowshoe trails located just steps from their lodging, making it easy to explore without driving far.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, guided outings with Clearwater Sports offer an excellent way to discover snowshoeing in Vermont. Local guides lead small groups through unmarked terrain and quiet winter landscapes, adjusting pace and difficulty based on experience. These tours often include naturalist insights, animal tracking, and seasonal highlights that deepen the connection to the land. Options like moonlight headlamp tours and adventures featuring the locally invented Mad River Rocket add a sense of excitement to the experience.
Stay at a Cozy Bed and Breakfast for Your Winter Adventure
After a full day on the trails, a comfortable place to return to makes all the difference. A historic Bed and Breakfast in Vermont, located in the village of Warren, provides a peaceful home base close to Sugarbush and many of the area’s best snowshoeing trails. Guests enjoy warm shared spaces, a welcoming atmosphere, and easy access to outdoor recreation.
Each morning begins with a multi-course breakfast designed to fuel winter adventures. Hot coffee, hearty dishes, and thoughtful hospitality set the tone for another day of exploration. If you’re seeking an adventure with snowshoeing in Vermont, along with a cozy mountain stay, West Hill House B&B creates a winter getaway worth planning around.
The Best Solo Vacations on Cape Cod
Best Solo Travel Destinations: Cape Cod Coastal Escape
Cape Cod stands out as one of the best solo travel destinations in the United States, offering a coastal setting that fosters independence. With its wide beaches, walkable towns, and relaxed vibe, it appeals to visitors seeking both structure and flexibility. Whether you are planning solo travel for women or simply looking for one of the best places for solo vacations, the Cape provides a safe setting.
Mornings can begin with a quiet walk along the shoreline, followed by a bike ride on the Cape Cod Rail Trail or a visit to one of the region’s historic lighthouses. Towns like Chatham and Provincetown offer distinct experiences, from boutique shopping and art galleries to waterfront dining. The variety of things to do on Cape Cod makes it easy to create a full and varied itinerary, which is why this region is often considered one of the best places to solo travel as a woman.
Cape Cod is widely recognized as one of the best solo trips for women in the US due to its welcoming atmosphere and accessible layout. Visitors can enjoy both lively and quiet beaches, including Nauset Beach and Coast Guard Beach for a more active environment, or Red River Beach for a quieter experience.
Dining is another highlight, with options ranging from casual waterfront cafés to refined restaurants focused on local seafood. Exploring these spaces alone feels natural here, reinforcing why the Cape remains one of the best solo travel destinations for trips for singles and independent travelers.
Where to Stay in Cape Cod for Solo Trips
Choosing the right accommodations is essential when planning solo vacations. A centrally located stay in Harwich places you within easy reach of beaches, restaurants, and nearby towns, making exploration straightforward and efficient. A Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod provides an elevated experience, combining attentive service with a comfortable, private setting that supports a seamless stay.
The Best Spring Getaway in the Columbia River Gorge
Best Columbia Gorge Getaways Near Seattle This Spring
Spring is when the Columbia River Gorge feels most alive. Waterfalls surge with snowmelt, hillsides shift back to green, and the light stays soft long enough for a full day outside. If you are looking for Columbia Gorge getaways near Seattle, this is an ideal season to plan a weekend that balances movement, views, and real downtime.
Start with the classics. Iconic waterfall stops like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Horsetail Falls are at their most dramatic in spring, with easy walks that still deliver that wow factor. If you want a bigger day on the trail, late spring brings wildflower season, with favorites like Dog Mountain and Rowena Plateau offering wide-open views that reward the climb. Prefer to keep it flexible, a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway is a perfect spring itinerary builder, with viewpoints and trailheads that let you choose your own pace.
Midday is made for river towns. Hood River, White Salmon, and Stevenson are easy places to reset between adventures, whether that means a relaxed lunch, a tasting room stop, or browsing local shops before heading back out for golden hour.
Where to Stay for Columbia Gorge Getaways
There may be plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, but the best weekends in the Gorge include time to slow down, not just time to explore. Columbia Gorge cabins make it easy to shift from trail days to restorative evenings, with privacy, design-forward comfort, and a setting that keeps the landscape front and center. Begin your morning with coffee and mountain views, come home to a fire after sunset, and let crisp spring nights set the tone for a true reset.
If your idea of a weekend getaway includes wellness, you can elevate your stay with in-cabin massages and thoughtful amenities that support rest and renewal. After a day of chasing waterfalls and viewpoints, the simple luxury of a warm soak, quiet surroundings, and space to unplug is exactly what spring in the Gorge is all about.
The Best Stillwater Antique Stores
Best Stillwater Antique Stores Near Minneapolis
Stillwater has become one of the most rewarding destinations for antiquing in the Midwest, especially for those searching for antique stores near Minneapolis. Just a short drive from the Twin Cities, this historic river town offers a collection of Stillwater antique stores that feel curated rather than crowded. With walkable streets, preserved architecture, and a welcoming pace, antiquing here naturally turns into a full weekend getaway.
The appeal of Stillwater antiques lies in their variety. From multi-dealer spaces to smaller specialty shops, each store offers its own personality and focus. American Gothic Antiques is known for its thoughtful layout and mix of American and European pieces, making it easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed. Staples Mill Antiques, set inside a historic sawmill, rewards curiosity with architectural salvage, rustic furniture, and unexpected finds across multiple levels. Midtown Antiques, the largest antique mall in the Midwest, blends farmhouse, mid-century, and classic styles across three expansive floors. Stillwater Antique Mall brings together a wide range of dealers, making it easy to compare styles and eras in one stop.
Where to Stay During an Antiquing Getaway
Antiquing is only part of what makes Stillwater special. Between shopping stops, visitors can enjoy plenty of things to do in Stillwater. Walking across the historic Lift Bridge offers sweeping views of the St. Croix River, while river cruises provide a relaxing way to see the town from the water. Downtown dining, wine bars, and live music venues add an easy rhythm to evenings after a day of exploring.
Choosing the right accommodations elevates the experience. Staying at one of the Romantic Hotels in MN located along the river allows guests to step directly into Downtown Stillwater and walk to many of the best antique stores. Spacious suites, on-site dining, and river views create a natural extension of the town’s historic charm. After a full day of browsing Stillwater antique stores, returning to a comfortable, historic hotel makes the getaway feel complete.
For travelers seeking antique stores near Minneapolis that truly justify an overnight stay, Stillwater offers a unique blend of shopping, scenery, and relaxed sophistication.
The Best Stillwater Restaurants for Date Night
Best Stillwater Restaurants for Couples
The best Stillwater Restaurants set the tone for some of the most memorable romantic getaways in MN. Nestled along the St. Croix River, this historic river town offers an impressive range of restaurants in Stillwater, from refined dining rooms with sweeping water views to lively pubs filled with music and energy. Within a few walkable blocks of downtown, couples can experience a variety of flavors that make food in Stillwater, MN, worth planning a trip around.
For a festive and spirited evening, Charlie’s Restaurant & Irish Pub remains one of the most beloved downtown Stillwater restaurants. Known for its Irish-American menu and welcoming atmosphere, it serves favorites like fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, and house-made specialties. Live music on weekends adds to the celebratory vibe, making it a lively stop for date nights or holiday celebrations.
For elevated dining, Papa’s Rooftop offers seasonal menus paired with panoramic river views. Located atop a historic hotel, it is one of the most scenic places to eat in Stillwater, MN, during warmer months. Beyond these on-site favorites, Brick & Bourbon delivers shareable plates and craft cocktails, while Domacin Restaurant & Wine Bar pairs global flavors with an extensive wine list ideal for intimate evenings. Feller highlights seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine for couples seeking a refined dining experience.
Romantic Getaways in MN Start Here
After dinner, the evening continues just steps away at a charming waterfront hotel in Stillwater, in the center of downtown. Spacious guest rooms, some with private balconies overlooking the St. Croix River, offer comfort and historic character in equal measure.
Staying within walking distance of downtown Stillwater restaurants means you can leave the car parked and fully enjoy the evening. From lively taverns to sophisticated dining rooms, the variety of places to relax makes this Midwest river town an exceptional choice for couples seeking a romantic escape. Book your lodging in Stillwater today and turn dinner into a full getaway.
The Best Stops on State Street in Madison
Your Walking Guide to State Street in Madison
A visit to State Street in Madison is one of the best ways to experience the character of Wisconsin’s capital city. Stretching between the University of Wisconsin campus and the Wisconsin State Capitol, this pedestrian-friendly district combines shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment into one walkable destination. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to discover something new, State Street offers plenty of opportunities for couples looking to enjoy the heart of downtown Madison.
Originally redesigned in 1974 to prioritize pedestrians, State Street has become one of the city’s most recognizable gathering places. Wide sidewalks make it easy to browse locally owned shops, stop for coffee, admire public art, and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by students, residents, and visitors year-round. It is no surprise that the district remains one of the top things to do in Madison, Wisconsin.
Begin your visit on the University of Wisconsin campus, then make your way through Library Mall and onto State Street. Along the way, you’ll find independent retailers such as Anthology, Little Luxuries, University Book Store, The Soap Opera, and Fontana Sports, each offering a unique glimpse into the personality of State Street, Madison, Wisconsin.
When it’s time to take a break, choose from a variety of local restaurants in Madison before continuing your exploration. Later in the day, enjoy lunch at Forage Kitchen, grab a slice at Ian’s Pizza, or stop by Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream for a sweet treat. Art lovers should make time for the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, while an evening performance at the Overture Center for the Arts provides the perfect ending to a day in the city.
Stay at a Cozy Bed and Breakfast in Madison
After exploring everything State Street has to offer, return to the comfort of The Buckingham Inn. Located within walking distance of the district, this locally-owned Bed and Breakfast in Madison provides a relaxing retreat with spacious accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and welcoming hospitality. From a freshly prepared breakfast to personalized recommendations from your hosts, every stay is designed to help you experience the very best of Madison.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape, a university event, or a couples getaway, you’ll enjoy convenient access to many of the city’s most popular destinations. Book your stay today and discover why The Buckingham Inn is the ideal home base for exploring State Street.