Food & Drink
A Lively Visit to Big Machine Distillery in Downtown Nashville
A Guide to Big Machine Distillery in Downtown Nashville
Downtown Nashville is packed with honky-tonks, live music, and the glow of Broadway, but just a block off the main drag is a distillery in Nashville that keeps visitors coming back: Big Machine Distillery. With three locations across Tennessee, this Nashville distillery has a lineup broad enough for whiskey drinkers, vodka fans, and everyone in between, and the downtown tasting room happens to be one of the only places in the city where you can legally order a cocktail to go.
A Big Machine Distillery tour fits naturally into a downtown Nashville day. Pair it with a stroll down Broadway, a stop at the Johnny Cash Museum, and a plate of hot chicken, and you have the makings of a classic Nashville visit. It is also an easy add-on to a stay at Belle Air Mansion, our historic Nashville B&B set back from the downtown core, where you can enjoy a quiet evening after a busy day of tastings.
What to Expect at Big Machine Distillery
Big Machine Distillery was founded in 2015 by music industry executive Scott Borchetta, best known for founding Big Machine Label Group. The downtown Nashville location sits on 3rd Avenue South, close enough to the Johnny Cash Museum that both fit easily into one afternoon. A second facility in Lynnville, Tennessee handles production, while the downtown spot works as a tasting room, bottle shop, and live music venue in one.
That mix of working distillery, bar, and stage is what sets this whiskey distillery in Nashville apart from the more traditional, tour-only operations nearby. Guests can wander in for a tasting flight and live acoustic music, or reserve a full guided tour in advance. A standard Big Machine Distillery tour runs about 45 minutes and is offered Thursday through Sunday, walking guests through the distillation process from grain to glass, along with the story behind the brand’s patented platinum filtration system that smooths its vodka.
For guests who want more hands-on time, Big Machine also offers a whiskey steward-led experience. Guests blend their own mash bill from aged barrels in the rick house, with the option to purchase an uncut, unfiltered bottle from the barrel they helped select. Every tour wraps up in the tasting room with a full lineup for guests to sample before they head back out to Broadway.
Signature Spirits to Try
Big Machine’s lineup spans several categories, which helps when a group has mixed tastes: Big Machine Platinum Filtered Vodka, the distillery’s flagship; Borchetta Bourbon, a Tennessee bourbon named for the founder; Clayton James Tennessee Whiskey; Abernathy Gin; All Mighty Moonshine; and Pickers Vodka. Among the best distillery tours in Nashville, this is a strong pick for groups who cannot agree on whiskey versus vodka, since the tasting flight covers enough ground for everyone to find something worth bringing home.
Make a Nashville B&B Home Base
After a tasting flight downtown, a quieter setting makes the evening land better. Belle Air Mansion is an 1832 Antebellum estate turned historic Nashville B&B, thoughtfully restored for a relaxed, elegant stay just 15 minutes from downtown Nashville. Guests enjoy spacious rooms and suites, a full Southern breakfast each morning, and six acres of historic grounds to unwind on after a day spent touring distilleries and honky-tonks. Whether you are planning a downtown distillery day trip, a weekend built around Nashville’s food and drink scene, or a longer stay to see the city’s top attractions, this location is an easy home base.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Big Machine Distillery tour like?
A standard tour runs about 45 minutes, Thursday through Sunday, and covers the distillation process from grain to glass, finishing with a guided tasting flight of the distillery’s spirits.
How long is the Big Machine Distillery tour?
The standard guided tour takes about 45 minutes. Guests who want a longer, more hands-on visit can book the whiskey steward-led experience, which includes blending a mash bill from barrels in the rick house.
What should I wear to a distillery tour?
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes and casual layers work best, since tours involve walking through production areas that can vary in temperature.
Who owns Big Machine Distillery?
Big Machine Distillery was founded by music industry executive Scott Borchetta, best known as the founder of Big Machine Label Group.
How far is Big Machine Distillery from Belle Air Mansion?
Belle Air Mansion sits about 15 minutes from downtown Nashville, making Big Machine Distillery an easy addition to a day trip or evening out.
A Romantic Fall Wine Weekend Getaway
Plan Your Berks County Wine Trail Escape
Fall is the best time to follow the Berks County Wine Trail, and a weekend built around it makes an easy, romantic getaway for couples looking to slow down. As the hills around Wernersville and Reading turn gold and rust, the trail’s ten family-owned wineries roll out harvest tastings, live music, and plenty of reasons to linger a little longer over a glass of wine with someone you love.
You do not need to be a wine expert to enjoy it. The Berks County Wine Trail is relaxed, with each winery bringing its own personality, from small-batch reds to fruit wines.
Where to Stop on the Berks County Wine Trail
Lily’s Vineyard in Reading is one of the easiest first stops if you are coming from the inn. It sits right on Skyline Drive with a homestead feel and a family history on the property that goes back generations.
From there, most stops on the trail run about thirty to forty-five minutes from The South Mountain Inn, so plan for some driving between pours. Ridgewood Winery in Birdsboro sits on Ridgewood Farmstead, a nationally registered historic site with buildings dating to the early 1700s, and its wines have picked up a number of regional awards over the years.
Manatawny Creek Winery in Douglassville sits along the banks of the Manatawny Creek on a ninety-acre family farm, with a deck that overlooks the property, an easy place to sit for a while with a glass of Cabernet Franc or Riesling. Setter Ridge Vineyards in Kutztown offers a tasting pavilion with views of thirty acres of vines, and Stoudt’s Winery in Shartlesville, just off I-78, leans into fruit wines, with a small but devoted following for its plum.
Hours and seasonal events vary winery to winery, so it is worth checking each one’s website before you go. Picking two or three stops for the day, rather than trying to see the whole Berks County Wine Trail at once, makes for a far more enjoyable pace.
Tips for a Fall Wine Trail Weekend in Berks County
Fall foliage across this part of Pennsylvania tends to peak in mid to late October, which lines up well with harvest season at most wineries. If you are looking for other things to do in Berks County, PA, between tastings, the area also offers farmers markets, small town shopping, and local dining worth building into your weekend. Just be sure to check each winery’s hours ahead of time, since several trim their schedules later in the week.
A Reading PA Bed and Breakfast Made for Wine Country Weekends
After a day of tastings, The South Mountain Inn is a comfortable place to land. Our Reading PA Bed and Breakfast sits on seven wooded acres just twenty minutes from the city, with rooms that come with fresh baked cookies, cozy robes, and morning coffee delivered to your door. In the evening, the fire pit out front is the perfect spot to unwind with someone special, and in the morning, our farm-style breakfast is the ideal way to fuel up before heading back out to the vineyards. Guests looking for a quieter moment can also wander down to say hello to the inn’s resident miniature donkeys.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Berks County Wine Trail?
The Berks County Wine Trail is a group of ten family-owned wineries spread across Berks County, Pennsylvania, each producing its own style of wine, from traditional vinifera to fruit wines.
How many wineries are on the Berks County Wine Trail?
The trail currently includes ten member wineries, with stops ranging from Reading to Shartlesville, Kutztown, and beyond.
When is the best time to visit the Berks County Wine Trail?
Fall is a favorite season, with harvest tastings, seasonal events, and foliage that peaks in mid to late October.
How far is the Berks County Wine Trail from Reading, PA?
Most wineries on the trail sit within a thirty-to forty-five-minute drive of Reading, making it easy to visit several stops in a day from a home base in the area.
Do I need reservations for wineries on the Berks County Wine Trail?
Reservation policies vary by winery. It is best to check each winery’s website ahead of time, especially during busy fall weekends.
If you are planning a fall getaway built around wine, foliage, and good company, we would love to host you. Book your stay at The South Mountain Inn today.
A Stillwater Winery Experience
St. Croix Vineyards Wine Tasting Near Minneapolis
Planning a romantic Midwest escape becomes effortless with a visit to St. Croix Vineyards in Stillwater, Minnesota. Just outside the Twin Cities, this winery offers a refined yet approachable setting where couples can enjoy time together. Surrounded by rolling countryside, the vineyard invites guests to explore handcrafted wines in a relaxed tasting room that reflects the region’s agricultural roots.
Set alongside the St. Croix River, Stillwater is often called the birthplace of Minnesota, and it’s easy to see why it continues to draw visitors. The winery ranks among the town’s best things to do, perfectly complementing a day wandering Main Street’s boutiques and antique shops, soaking up the riverfront views, and admiring the area’s beautifully preserved historic architecture. Whether you visit during a sun-filled summer weekend or a peaceful escape, Stillwater is a charming backdrop for romantic getaways.
A Stillwater Winery with Local Distinction
St. Croix Vineyards has been producing wine since 1992, earning recognition as Minnesota’s oldest continuously owned winery. Their commitment to cold-climate winemaking is evident in every bottle, with grapes cultivated specifically for the region. Varietals such as Marquette and Maréchal Foch highlight the depth and complexity of Midwest wines, offering notes of dark fruit, spice, and subtle oak.
The vineyard spans four acres with more than 1,600 vines, all maintained and bottled on-site. This hands-on approach ensures a consistent connection between the land and the finished product. Guests can enjoy walk-in tastings without reservations or opt for a more personalized experience in a private tasting space. Outdoor seating on the deck provides a scenic setting to enjoy a glass while overlooking the vines.
Stay Along the St. Croix River
A visit to this Stillwater winery pairs naturally with a stay at Water Street Inn. Located along the river, the Boutique Hotel places guests within walking distance of dining, shopping, and local attractions. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms, including fireside suites, are ideal for a romantic getaway in MN.
A Taste of Tradition at Wisconsin Supper Clubs
Best Wisconsin Supper Clubs for Couples Near Wausau
Some traditions never go out of style, especially in the Midwest. Wisconsin supper clubs are as much about the ritual as the menu, featuring a cozy evening that starts with conversation, warm lighting, and a well-made Wisconsin old-fashioned. If you’re planning a couples getaway to Wausau, you’ll find the perfect mix of classic dining, arts and culture, and an easy pace that makes it simple to linger a little longer.
Start your day exploring things to do in Wausau, then turn the evening into a fabulous date night at one of the Wisconsin Supper Clubs near Wausau. Catch a live show at the Grand Theater, spend time at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, or step into local history at the Woodson History Center. For a slower stroll, wander the Andrew Warren Historic District, where the preserved architecture sets the scene for an intentional, not rushed, date night. Between Wausau restaurants and the supper club spots just outside town, there’s no shortage of places to eat in Wausau and beyond.
Wisconsin supper clubs took hold in the early to mid twentieth century, built around hospitality, familiarity, and a little bit of ceremony. If you’re wondering what is a supper club, it’s a dining experience packed with nostalgia, including relish trays, prime rib, fish fry, brandy after dinner, and staff who treat you like you’ve been coming for years. Many of the best supper clubs in Wisconsin sit along scenic highways or near water, with cozy booths and menus that lean into steak, seafood, and house-made desserts.
For supper club options near Wausau, Pinewood Supper Club is a local favorite for steaks and prime rib, The Palms Supper Club offers an elevated date-night feel, Sky Club Supper Club is known for classic hospitality and crowd-pleasers like fish fry, and Belvedere Supper Club adds a slightly more modern edge with a dessert list worth saving room for.
The Best Upscale Boutique Hotel After Your Meal
After dinner, come back to Stewart Inn, one of the most Unique Hotels in Wausau, WI. Our historic property blends architectural elegance with contemporary comfort, an inviting fit for couples planning a romantic night away. Select suites feature fireplaces for a quiet evening in, and spa-inspired bathrooms make it easy to take your time in the morning. Each day begins with a gourmet multi-course breakfast, prepared in-house and beautifully presented, plus complimentary beverages throughout the day.
When you’re ready to plan, book your couples getaway at Stewart Inn and make the tradition yours.
Bainbridge Island Wine Tasting
Best Fletcher Bay Winery Guide for a Romantic Island Escape
Few Bainbridge Island wineries have earned the loyal following enjoyed by Fletcher Bay Winery. With three unique tasting locations, a diverse portfolio of handcrafted wines, and a welcoming atmosphere, it has become a favorite destination for visitors planning a romantic Bainbridge Island getaway. Whether you are an experienced wine enthusiast or simply searching for memorable things to do on Bainbridge Island, Fletcher Bay Winery offers an experience worth returning to again and again.
Founded as a family passion project and officially opened in 2012, Fletcher Bay Winery has grown into one of the island’s most recognized wine destinations. The winery operates three distinct locations, each offering its own perspective on the Bainbridge winery experience.
The Coppertop tasting room serves as the operational heart of the winery. Home to the production facility and barrel room, this location gives guests the opportunity to connect directly with the winemakers while enjoying tasting flights and occasional barrel samples. The spacious setting includes comfortable seating, a loft area, and a rotating menu featuring charcuterie, cheese boards, tacos, and other shareable fare.
The Winslow Tasting Room offers a convenient stop for visitors arriving on a Bainbridge Island day trip. Located within walking distance of the ferry terminal, it provides a relaxed setting for afternoon wine tasting and easy access to the shops, restaurants, and galleries that make downtown Winslow a popular destination.
From May through September, the Rooftop Wine Garden adds another dimension to the Fletcher Bay Winery experience. This seasonal venue features live music, oyster pop-ups, charcuterie boards, and elevated views over Winslow. Monthly karaoke nights and a full calendar of events make it a favorite gathering place during the warmer months.
Across all locations, guests can choose tasting flights featuring whites, reds, rosés, fruit wines, sweet wines, and port-style selections. Grapes sourced primarily from Yakima Valley and Walla Walla AVAs create a lineup that appeals to a wide range of preferences.
Stay Close to Bainbridge Island’s Best Wine Tasting
After exploring Fletcher Bay Winery and discovering what to do on Bainbridge Island, Eagle Harbor Inn offers an ideal place to stay. Located in downtown Winslow, this Boutique Hotel on Bainbridge Island places guests within walking distance of tasting rooms, restaurants, and waterfront attractions. Comfortable guest suites, spacious townhomes with fully equipped kitchens, on-site parking, and a peaceful courtyard garden create a convenient and relaxing home base for a romantic island escape. Book your stay and experience the best of Bainbridge Island from one exceptional location.
Beer Lovers Take Note!
Best Hood River Breweries for a Weekend Getaway
Hood River breweries have earned a loyal following throughout the Pacific Northwest, and it is easy to see why. Set in the heart of the Columbia River Gorge, Hood River combines scenic mountain landscapes, outdoor recreation, and an impressive craft beer culture that attracts visitors year-round. Whether you are planning a quick weekend escape or a longer stay, exploring the breweries in Hood River is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Columbia River Gorge.
The local brewing community offers a wide range of experiences, from waterfront taprooms with panoramic views to relaxed neighborhood gathering spots. Full Sail Brewing remains one of the most recognized Oregon breweries, serving classic craft beers from its Columbia River location. Visitors can enjoy a pint on the outdoor deck while taking in views of the Gorge.
Another favorite among beer enthusiasts is pFriem Family Brewers. Known for its European-inspired brewing approach and carefully crafted beer selection, pFriem has become a destination for travelers seeking exceptional quality. Its waterfront setting and thoughtfully prepared menu make it an easy place to spend an afternoon.
Just across the river in Cascade Locks, Thunder Island Brewing offers a welcoming atmosphere and views of the iconic Bridge of the Gods. The brewery’s rotating selection of IPAs and seasonal offerings has helped make it a popular stop for visitors exploring the region.
Double Mountain Brewery continues to be a downtown favorite. Known for wood-fired pizza and hop-forward beers, it provides a lively atmosphere that reflects the community spirit of Hood River. It is a great stop for anyone looking to experience the local beer scene in a casual setting.
For beer lovers who want to experience more than one Hood River brewery, the Breweries in the Gorge Passport offers a convenient way to explore participating taprooms throughout the Columbia River Gorge. The self-guided route encourages visitors to enjoy tasting flights, discover new favorites, and experience the variety that makes this region unique.
Stay in Comfortable Hood River Cabins
After a day spent visiting Hood River breweries, returning to Carson Ridge Cabins provides a relaxing contrast to the activity of town. Situated on nine acres of gardens and evergreen forest, these luxury Hood River Cabins feature private accommodations, fireplaces, jetted tubs, and thoughtful amenities that help guests unwind. Located just minutes from downtown Hood River, Carson Ridge Cabins offers a peaceful retreat while keeping visitors close to the area’s best breweries, outdoor recreation, and local attractions. Book your stay and enjoy a memorable mountain weekend getaway in the Columbia River Gorge.
Best Attractions in Nashville: City Winery
Best City Winery Nashville Date Night Experience
City Winery Nashville combines live entertainment, exceptional dining, and thoughtfully crafted wines, making it one of the most memorable destinations for a couples’ getaway in Music City. Located in the SoBro neighborhood just south of downtown, this one-of-a-kind venue offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy intimate concerts, guided wine tastings, and chef-inspired cuisine, all under one roof. Whether you are planning a romantic evening or simply searching for unique things to do in Nashville, City Winery deserves a place on your itinerary.
Founded by Michael Dorf, creator of New York City’s iconic Knitting Factory, City Winery was designed to unite outstanding live performances with an approachable wine experience. Today, guests can sample wines produced on-site using grapes sourced from premier growing regions, including California’s Napa and Sonoma Valleys, Oregon’s Willamette Valley, and Washington’s Columbia Valley. Guided tastings introduce guests to selections such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, rosé, and whiskey barrel-aged Cabernet, each thoughtfully paired with seasonal menu offerings.
Beyond wine tasting in Nashville, City Winery is known for its intimate performance venue. The concert calendar features acclaimed singer-songwriters, country artists, comedians, and touring musicians, providing an alternative to the larger entertainment venues throughout downtown. Guests can reserve dinner tables while enjoying live performances, creating an evening that blends outstanding food, music, and hospitality.
Visitors extending their stay should also consider exploring other wineries in Nashville. Arrington Vineyards, located about 30 minutes south of downtown, offers scenic vineyard views, award-winning wines, and relaxed picnic spaces. Belle Meade Plantation pairs wine and bourbon tastings with fascinating tours of its historic estate, while Amber Falls Winery’s tasting room provides another convenient opportunity to sample Tennessee wines without leaving the city.
Stay at Our Historic BnB in Nashville
Complete your Nashville experience with a stay at Belle Air Mansion & Inn. Located just minutes from downtown attractions, our historic BnB in Nashville offers elegant guest rooms, peaceful gardens, and gracious Southern hospitality. Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring locally inspired favorites before you set out to enjoy concerts in Nashville, explore local attractions, or discover the city’s growing wine scene.
There are also wine tasting experiences right on site at this BnB in Nashville! It’s a great add-on to your stay. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or a relaxing vacation, this historic mansion provides a beautiful home base for your Music City adventure. Reserve your stay today.
Best Bend Breweries for Family Friendly Getaways
Tour the Best Bend Breweries on Your Oregon Getaway
Bend Breweries are one of the biggest reasons families choose Central Oregon for an easygoing getaway. Known for creativity, variety, and welcoming atmospheres, breweries in Bend, Oregon, make it simple to enjoy outdoor adventure with relaxed dining and local flavor. With mountains, rivers, and trails surrounding the area, families can spend the day exploring and still enjoy an afternoon stop along the Bend Ale Trail.
What sets Bend Breweries apart are the family-friendly options. Outdoor seating, spacious patios, dedicated kids’ menus, and nearby parks create an environment where parents can enjoy a great beer while kids have room to play. From long-established favorites to newer breweries adding fresh styles, the Bend Ale Trail offers more than 30 stops, each with its own personality and appeal.
Popular family-friendly stops include 10 Barrel Brewing, located near Columbia Park, making it easy to combine lunch with playground time. Bend Brewing in the Old Mill District offers grassy outdoor areas and a menu that goes well beyond pub basics. Deschutes Brewery remains a must-visit for families, thanks to its lively atmosphere, approachable food, and history as one of Bend’s original breweries. For something a little different, Worthy Brewing adds a fun twist with its Hopservatory (for nighttime stargazing), while Crux Fermentation Project stands out for its open lawn, welcoming vibe, and easy-drinking beers.
Family-Friendly Hotels in Gilchrist, Oregon
After a day spent exploring Bend Breweries, having a comfortable place to return to makes all the difference. Staying at one of the coziest hotels in Gilchrist, Oregon, allows families to enjoy quick access to Bend while ending the day in a quieter, more relaxed setting. The Historic Gilchrist Waterfront Resort offers space to spread out, cabin-style lodging, and hot tubs with lakefront views.
Cabins and lodging options provide families and groups with flexibility, whether you are traveling with kids or planning a getaway with friends. Common indoor areas invite guests to gather, unwind, and play games. Choosing hotels in Gilchrist, Oregon, as your home base keeps the focus on comfort, convenience, and enjoying everything Central Oregon has to offer.
For families planning a getaway centered around great food, relaxed experiences, and spending time together, this region delivers a trip that feels fun, flexible, and easy to enjoy.
Best Breweries in Duluth
Head to Ursa Minor Brewing: Best Stop in Lincoln Park
A visit to Ursa Minor Brewing is one of the best ways to experience Duluth’s thriving craft beer scene. Located in the heart of the Lincoln Park Craft District, this innovative brewery has become a favorite destination for visitors seeking exceptional beer, great food, and an authentic connection to the local community. Whether you are a longtime craft beer enthusiast or simply looking for memorable things to do in Duluth, Ursa Minor Brewing deserves a place on your itinerary.
One of the defining features of Ursa Minor Brewing is its constantly evolving beer selection. The brewery releases more than 100 new beers each year, ensuring there is always something fresh on tap. While IPAs remain a major focus, guests can also enjoy stouts, sours, seasonal specialties, house-made root beer, and non-alcoholic options. This variety makes it one of the most appealing breweries in Duluth for groups with different tastes and preferences.
The brewery’s food menu complements the beer experience perfectly. Wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, appetizers, and shareable snacks create a relaxed setting where visitors can settle in and enjoy an afternoon or evening with friends and family. Combined with a welcoming atmosphere, it is easy to understand why Ursa Minor Brewing is frequently included on lists of top Duluth breweries.
Ursa Minor Brewing is known for its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. Regular trivia nights, bingo events, and live music performances bring locals and visitors together throughout the week, creating an energetic gathering place within the Lincoln Park Craft District.
Stay at a Duluth Bed and Breakfast on Lake Superior
After exploring brewery tours Duluth visitors love, retreat to Solglimt Bed and Breakfast for a relaxing lakeside experience. As the only lakefront Duluth Bed and Breakfast, Solglimt offers direct views of Lake Superior, beautifully maintained gardens, and warm hospitality that helps guests feel at home from the moment they arrive.
Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared gourmet breakfast crafted with fresh ingredients and artistic presentation. Guests can spend their days discovering Duluth attractions such as Canal Park, the Lakewalk, the Aerial Lift Bridge, and the Superior Hiking Trail before returning to a comfortable and welcoming setting along the shoreline.
If you are planning a weekend getaway filled with breweries Duluth MN visitors consistently recommend, pairing a visit to Ursa Minor Brewing with a stay at Solglimt Bed and Breakfast creates an unforgettable Duluth experience.