Food & Drink
Don’t Miss These Incredible Minnesota Breweries
Best Minnesota Breweries for Beer Lovers
Minnesota has earned its reputation as a top destination for beer lovers, offering a mix of historic brewing roots and a constantly evolving craft beer scene. From classic lagers to creative seasonal releases, Minnesota breweries showcase both tradition and innovation, making them an ideal focus for a Midwest weekend getaway.
Across the state, breweries in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and breweries in Duluth, Minnesota, continue to draw attention for their quality and variety. Minneapolis breweries range from well-established names to inventive small-batch producers, while Duluth’s breweries often reflect their North Shore surroundings with bold, refreshing styles. Beyond the cities, local breweries in small towns and scenic regions add even more personality to Minnesota beer culture, giving travelers plenty of reasons to explore beyond the main hubs.
A weekend built around Minnesota beer is easy to plan thanks to the growing number of brewery districts, taproom trails, and seasonal releases that keep menus fresh. Whether you prefer hop-forward IPAs, smooth dark ales, or lighter styles that pair well with food, the best breweries in Minnesota offer something for every palate. And that is, of course, just the start of great things to do in Minnesota.
Where to Stay While Exploring Minnesota Breweries
Choosing the right place to stay makes a brewery-focused getaway even better. Minnesota Bed and Breakfasts offer comfortable accommodations, thoughtful hospitality, and convenient access to local breweries. Many innkeepers are familiar with nearby beer spots and can recommend Minneapolis breweries, Duluth favorites, or hidden gems worth the drive. After a day of tastings, relaxing in a cozy guest room or shared space is the perfect way to unwind.
A Midwest weekend getaway centered on Minnesota breweries combines great beer with memorable places to stay. From urban taprooms to small-town breweries, Minnesota beer continues to impress. When you’re ready to start planning, explore places to stay in Minnesota and build a weekend that balances exceptional brewing with welcoming accommodations.
Don’t Miss These Cayuga Lake Wineries in the Finger Lakes
Best Cayuga Lake Wineries to Visit in the Finger Lakes
Exploring Cayuga Lake wineries is one of the most rewarding ways for couples to experience the Finger Lakes together. This northern stretch of Upstate New York is known for cool-climate wines, scenic vineyard views, and tasting rooms that feel welcoming rather than crowded. Focusing your itinerary on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail is one of the best things to do in the Finger Lakes on your next getaway.
Established in 1983 as the first wine trail in the country, the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail winds through lakeside vineyards, rolling farmland, and charming towns like Trumansburg. Along the route, you will find a thoughtful mix of wineries, cideries, and distilleries, making it easy to spend a full day tasting while discovering one of the best things to do in Upstate NY. Many Cayuga Lake wineries are family-owned, with a strong commitment to sustainable practices and handcrafted wines that reflect the region’s distinct character.
Six Mile Creek Vineyard is one of the oldest Cayuga Lake wineries and a favorite for its range of award-winning wines and spirits. Lucas Vineyards offers sweeping lake views alongside estate-grown wines, sparkling selections, and guest-loved Rieslings. Hosmer Winery brings a sense of heritage to the trail, producing expressive varietals from its long-established vineyards. Thirsty Owl Wine Co. stands out for its expansive tasting room overlooking the lake and a seasonal bistro that pairs local ingredients with estate wines. Cayuga Ridge Estate Winery and Buttonwood Grove Winery round out the experience with welcoming tasting rooms and some of the most scenic overlooks on the trail.
A Refined Place to Stay Near the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail
After a day exploring wineries in the Finger Lakes, couples appreciate having a comfortable and inviting place to unwind. Staying near Cayuga Lake allows you to extend your getaway across multiple days, leaving time to explore beyond the tasting rooms. From peaceful mornings to unhurried evenings, a well-located inn enhances the entire experience.
Whether you are planning your first visit or returning to discover new favorites, Cayuga Lake wineries offer a memorable couples getaway filled with great wine, beautiful views, and the relaxed charm that defines the Finger Lakes. The Inn at Gothic Eves is a fantastic boutique hotel & spa in the Finger Lakes to make your home base.
Don’t Miss These Fantastic Restaurants in Madison
Best Restaurants in Madison, WI for Couples
Dining out is one of the most memorable parts of a couple’s getaway, and Madison delivers an impressive mix of creativity, comfort, and locally driven menus. From James Beard-recognized chefs to neighborhood favorites, the restaurants in Madison continue to raise the bar for Midwest dining. Whether you are planning a romantic night out or building an entire trip around food, these places to eat in Madison are worth reserving ahead of time.
One thing that sets Madison, WI, restaurants apart is their deep connection to local farms and producers. Seasonal menus highlight Wisconsin cheeses, fresh produce, and thoughtfully sourced proteins, creating meals that feel rooted in the region. Many of the best restaurants in Madison focus on small plates, shareable dishes, and intimate dining rooms, making them especially appealing for couples.
The neighborhoods surrounding Capitol Square are packed with standout dining options. Lallande offers beautifully crafted French-inspired plates in a cozy setting, while The Harvey House reimagines the classic supper club experience with a modern twist. Gates & Brovi blends Italian influences with Wisconsin traditions, and Heritage Tavern showcases a farm-focused menu led by a James Beard-nominated chef.
For a classic date night, Lombardino’s remains a favorite for Italian comfort dishes, while Sardine delivers lakeside dining with French flair. Eno Vino pairs panoramic views with creative small plates, making it a popular choice for couples celebrating a special occasion. From new restaurants in Madison, WI, to long-standing icons like the Tornado Club Steak House, the city offers plenty of ways to dine well together.
Where to Stay for a Food-Focused Madison Getaway
After enjoying the best restaurants in Madison, returning to a comfortable and welcoming place to stay matters just as much. Choosing a charming Bed and Breakfast in Madison, WI, offers a quieter, more personal experience than staying in a large hotel. Staying at a locally owned inn means starting each morning with a homemade breakfast and insider dining recommendations tailored to your plans. It is the perfect complement to a couple’s getaway built around great food, thoughtful hospitality, and time well spent together.
Drinks with a Stunning Waterfall View in Pennsylvania
Cobblehaus at the Falls Brewery Experience in PA
Looking for a memorable stop in western Pennsylvania? Cobblehaus at the Falls combines handcrafted beer, local history, and scenic views, making it one of the most rewarding destinations in Mercer County. Tucked along Leesburg Station Road, this hidden brewery invites visitors to relax beside Springfield Falls while enjoying a rotating selection from Cobblehaus Brewing.
Pennsylvania continues to earn recognition for its thriving craft beer scene, and Cobblehaus at the Falls reflects that tradition with Belgian-inspired and German-inspired beers brewed with quality ingredients and attention to detail. Whether you prefer a crisp lager, refreshing wheat beer, flavorful ale, or seasonal release, there is always something new to sample. Ordering a flight is an excellent way to experience several styles during your visit.
The brewery is also a featured stop on the Mercer County Wine, Beer, and Spirits Trail, making it easy to include alongside other Mercer County breweries. Food trucks regularly visit the property, including local favorites serving German-inspired fare that pairs well with the brewery’s handcrafted beers.
One of the highlights of visiting Cobblehaus at the Falls is the setting itself. Guests can admire the impressive Springfield Falls, explore the preserved Seth and Hill Iron Furnace, or relax in the spacious outdoor beer garden overlooking the water. Picnic tables, yard games, and shaded seating encourage visitors to slow down and enjoy the scenery. Throughout the year, live music and seasonal events create an inviting atmosphere for both locals and travelers. It’s one of the best things to do in PA for a couple’s trip!
Stay at One of the Best Hotels in Pennsylvania
Turn your brewery visit into a romantic getaway by staying at Tara – A Country Inn in nearby Clark. As one of the welcoming hotels in Pennsylvania, Tara offers elegant guest rooms, spacious suites, beautiful gardens, an outdoor pool, and several on-site dining options. After a day exploring breweries in PA, unwind with exceptional hospitality in a peaceful country setting.
Enjoy lunch at Vivien’s Restaurant, the inn’s poolside dining destination serving burgers, wraps, salads, cocktails, and more. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a romantic getaway in PA, Tara provides the perfect home base for discovering Cobblehaus at the Falls and the many attractions throughout Mercer County. Book your stay today and experience one of the area’s favorite destinations.
Duluth Attractions to Explore on Your Couple’s Getaway
The Best Things to Do in Canal Park, Duluth, MN
Canal Park is one of the Midwest’s most iconic destinations, where Lake Superior meets a lively waterfront district. The defining experience here is watching massive freighters glide beneath the Aerial Lift Bridge, an up-close encounter that never loses its appeal, no matter how many times you see it. Checking the ship schedule in advance helps you plan your day around arrivals.
After you’ve watched the action at the Aerial Lift Bridge, there’s plenty more things to do in Canal Park to keep you busy. The Lakewalk stretches for miles along the shoreline, offering great walking and biking with ever-changing lake views. Local shops and galleries are worth browsing between outdoor stops, and Park Point, just across the bridge, provides a quieter escape with a sweeping freshwater beach that feels worlds away from the canal’s bustle.
When hunger strikes, Canal Park delivers. The waterfront dining scene ranges from casual spots with lake views to more polished evening options, all contributing to Duluth’s growing reputation as a food destination.
Canal Park is also a natural launching point for the rest of the city. The Superior Hiking Trail and Gitchi-Gami State Trail draw outdoor enthusiasts, while the Great Lakes Aquarium and local museums offer a deeper look at the region’s ecology and history. Whether you’re spending a full weekend or just a day, Canal Park sits at the center of it all.
Stay at a Duluth Bed and Breakfast on Lake Superior
For a romantic finishing touch, Solglimt Lakeshore Bed and Breakfast is an exceptional base. Perched directly on Lake Superior, it puts guests close to Canal Park and Duluth’s top attractions while offering the only waterfront Duluth Bed and Breakfast. Thoughtfully appointed rooms and beautiful surrounding gardens make it easy to unwind after a full day on the water.
Enjoy a Tasting at One of the Top Wineries Near Mystic, CT
Savor the Jonathan Edwards Winery Experience in Mystic
There are many things to do near Mystic CT, but adding a visit to Jonathan Edwards Winery introduces a quieter, more intentional pace to your itinerary. Located just a short drive from downtown Mystic, this destination offers a refined take on wine tasting in Connecticut, making it a natural fit for a couples getaway along the coast.
Start your day in Mystic with a walk along the waterfront, followed by a lunch centered on fresh seafood. From there, shift inland to explore one of the most approachable Connecticut wineries. Jonathan Edwards Winery provides an open, scenic setting where vineyard views and a relaxed tasting room create space to slow down and enjoy the experience together.
The tasting format is straightforward, allowing guests to sample a curated selection that highlights the winery’s style. Whether you opt for a guided tasting, a glass of your favorite varietal, or a shared flight, the environment encourages conversation and connection. Guests can also enhance their visit with a light picnic or a curated cheese and charcuterie board.
Stay at Top Hotels in Mystic CT for a Couples Getaway
After exploring wineries near Mystic, return to downtown and settle into one of the most well-located hotels in Mystic CT. The Whalers Inn places you within walking distance of shops, dining, and waterfront views, making it easy to continue your evening without additional travel.
Onsite dining at Shipwright’s Daughter offers a seamless transition into the evening, while nearby options like Mystic Fish Camp provide a more casual alternative. With everything centrally located, your time remains focused on enjoying the coastal setting and each other’s company.
For couples looking to combine wine-tasting in Connecticut experiences with classic coastal charm, pairing Jonathan Edwards Winery with a stay in Mystic creates a well-balanced, memorable itinerary.
Enjoy the Best New Mexican Food in Santa Fe
Best New Mexican Food Guide for Santa Fe Weekend
New Mexican Food is one of the defining experiences of a weekend in Santa Fe, shaped by centuries of cultural influence and regional agriculture. Rooted in Indigenous traditions and refined through Spanish techniques, this cuisine centers on ingredients that reflect the Southwest landscape. Chile, grown in New Mexico and harvested in late summer, defines nearly every dish. Whether red, green, or “Christmas” style, it creates a flavor profile that is distinct from other regional cuisines.
For visitors wondering what New Mexican food is, the answer begins with simplicity and depth. Corn tortillas, slow-cooked meats, and chile-based sauces replace the heavier cheeses and spice blends often found in Tex-Mex. Signature dishes such as carne adovada, posole, and stacked enchiladas highlight how red chile brings a rich, earthy flavor, while green chile offers a brighter, more immediate heat. Blue corn, pinto beans, and sopapillas round out meals that feel both traditional and deeply regional.
Santa Fe restaurants offer countless opportunities to explore these flavors. Near the historic Plaza and many of the best things to do in Santa Fe, The Shed is widely known for its red chile enchiladas, while La Choza offers a more local setting with standout carne adovada and posole. Cafe Pasqual’s introduces a creative approach with organic ingredients, and Tomasita’s provides classic dishes in generous portions, including a well-known green chile stew. For something more casual, Palacio Cafe and The Tune Up Cafe offer approachable menus, while Horseman’s Haven Cafe is recognized for its bold green chile heat. Coyote Cafe presents a more refined take on New Mexican cuisine, ideal for an elevated evening meal.
Boutique Lodging in Santa Fe
After exploring the best New Mexican restaurants in Santa Fe, returning to Boutique Lodging in Santa Fe offers a comfortable and convenient way to recharge. Located near many top restaurants in Santa Fe, this setting allows guests to move easily between dining, galleries, and historic sites.
Guests can unwind in a garden courtyard or relax on a private or shared patio, enjoying the quieter side of the city after a full day of exploring places to eat in Santa Fe. Thoughtful amenities such as fine linens, flat screen TVs, and reliable wifi create a restful environment, while inviting common spaces encourage relaxation.
Mornings begin with a gourmet breakfast made from fresh, local ingredients, offering a connection to the same agricultural traditions that define New Mexican cuisine. In the afternoon, light refreshments provide a welcome pause before heading out to discover more Santa Fe restaurants. For a weekend focused on New Mexican Food, this Boutique Lodging ensures the stay with comfort, location, and thoughtful detail.
Enjoy Wine Tasting at These Top Wineries Near Mystic, CT
Best Wineries Near Mystic for Couples’ Getaways
Couples planning a getaway to coastal Connecticut often discover that exploring wineries near Mystic adds an easygoing, memorable layer to the trip. The region’s wine scene has grown steadily, earning praise for its thoughtful approach, scenic settings, and welcoming tasting experiences. From coastal influences to small-production vintages, these wineries offer an experience that feels personal and unhurried, ideal for couples looking to explore together.
Many of the best wineries near Mystic are just a short drive from downtown, making it easy to plan an afternoon tasting without sacrificing time enjoying all the other things to do in Mystic, CT. Jonathan Edwards Winery is one of the most popular stops, known for consistently well-crafted reds, especially Cabernet Franc and Merlot blends. Live music and a relaxed tasting room atmosphere make it a favorite for couples visiting on weekends. Saltwater Farm Vineyard delivers a very different experience, set inside a restored airplane hangar near the coast. The open space, breezes, and approachable wines make it a standout among Connecticut wineries. Stonington Vineyards rounds out the trio with beautifully maintained grounds, friendly staff, and white wines that pair well with a picnic on the property.
Between tastings, Mystic offers plenty of ways to round out your days. Walk through Mystic Seaport, browse local shops, or enjoy time on the water with a harbor cruise. The dining scene is also worth planning around, especially reservations at standout restaurants that highlight the region’s culinary talent.
Where to Stay During Your Wine-Focused Escape
After visiting wineries near Mystic, returning to a well-located hotel makes the experience even better. Staying in downtown Mystic places you close to dining, shopping, and waterfront attractions while keeping top Connecticut wineries within easy reach. Our unique downtown Mystic Hotel offers couples comfortable rooms, historic character, and thoughtful amenities create a natural balance between exploration and relaxation. With everything so close, couples can move easily from morning walks to afternoon tastings and evenings out without ever feeling rushed.
Adding wine tastings to your itinerary brings a new perspective to things to do in Mystic and creates shared moments that linger long after the trip ends. Book your couples getaway and experience why wineries near Mystic continue to draw visitors back year after year.
Exeter NH Restaurants: A Local’s Guide to Where to Eat Downtown
Why Exeter, NH, Restaurants Have Become a Seacoast Destination
Exeter, NH, restaurants are among the biggest surprises on New Hampshire’s Seacoast. There was a time when we routinely told guests to drive to Portsmouth for dinner. These days, we tell them to leave the car parked. The Exeter, NH, restaurants scene has quietly become one of the best small-town food destinations in New England, with a James Beard Award semifinalist chef, house-made pasta, two breweries, and a standout noodle shop all within a few blocks of the bandstand at the center of downtown.
With so many things to do in Exeter, the food is only half the reason to come. Exeter is a walking town, and the same few blocks that hold many of the best restaurants in Exeter, NH also lead you to the shops along Water Street, the Squamscott River waterfront, the American Independence Museum, and the campus of Phillips Exeter Academy. In summer, the Exeter Brass Band, the oldest continuously performing community brass band in the United States, fills the bandstand with free concerts. Spend a day in downtown or take a day trip from Exeter. Either way, dinner in Exeter, NH, is the perfect way to end a foodie getaway.
It is easy to make Exeter into a luxurious getaway, so rather than driving home after dessert, we recommend staying at Inn by the Bandstand, one of the best hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire. Our lodging sits directly across from the bandstand, which means nearly all Exeter, NH, restaurants in this guide are less than an easy walk from your room.
Discover Exeter, NH, Restaurants for Every Occasion
Our favorite Exeter, NH, restaurants cover everything from special occasion dinners to a quick taco between shops. One of the best things about downtown Exeter, NH, restaurants is that they are all close together, most within walking distance, making it easy to enjoy a cocktail before dinner, browse the shops, and stop for dessert. Many of the dining rooms in town are intimate, so reservations two to three weeks in advance are a smart idea for Saturday nights, especially during fall foliage season and Phillips Exeter Academy events, graduation, and alumni weekends.
- Ambrose sits in the main dining room of Inn by the Bandstand, where our chef, Stanley Arnoldo Orantes, formerly of Boston’s Ostra, Cultivar, and Ecco, prepares seasonal plates designed for sharing. Our intimate dining room has just six tables by a fireplace overlooking historic downtown, with garden patio seating in warmer months. We believe Ambrose belongs among the best restaurants Exeter, NH, has to offer and is one of our favorite choices for fine dining in Exeter, NH.
- Vino e Vivo recreates the feel of a European wine bar, where owner and wine director Tony Callendrello curates a frequently changing wine list with 20 wines by the glass and more than 100 selections by the bottle. Chef Paul Callahan, a 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist for Best Chef: Northeast, changes the menu with the seasons, and the duck fat beignets have developed a loyal following. The restaurant is closed Sunday and Monday and also offers a seasonal riverside patio and a reservable chef’s table tasting menu.
- Il Cornicello is one of the names we mention most often when guests ask about the best Exeter, NH, restaurants. Expect Tuscan cooking with house-made pasta, seasonal dishes built around local ingredients, and thoughtful Italian desserts that change with the menu.
- Epoch Restaurant & Bar, the gastropub on Front Street, is a reliable choice for dinner in Exeter, NH. The thoughtful cocktail list and menu featuring seasonal New England ingredients, fresh seafood, steaks, and elevated comfort food make it an easy recommendation whether you are celebrating or simply looking for a relaxed evening.
- Fat Hen Brewing Co. is one of the most pleasant surprises among the best restaurants in Exeter, NH. This small brewery serves excellent British-style meat pies, including a steak and ale pie and a chicken tikka masala pie that regulars return for again and again.
- Sea Dog Brewing Company offers relaxed pub fare, outdoor seating overlooking the river, and occasional comedy nights.
- OBA Noodle Bar is a tiny downtown noodle shop serving excellent wonton noodles, curries, and other Southeast Asian favorites.
- Las Olas Taqueria covers the quick-and-affordable end of Exeter restaurants, serving some of the Seacoast’s favorite Mexican food.
- Lexie’s lives by its motto, “Peace. Love. Burgers.” It is one of our favorite recommendations for a casual meal, serving creative burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a fun, laid-back setting.
If you work your way through downtown and still want to explore more restaurants near Exeter, NH, neighboring Newfields has several excellent options just a few minutes away, while Portsmouth’s nationally recognized dining scene is only about twenty minutes northeast. Hampton’s seafood restaurants are about fifteen minutes east along the coast.
Why Inn by the Bandstand Stands Apart from Hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire
The easiest way to enjoy the best Exeter, NH, restaurants is to stay close by. Our boutique hotel occupies a beautifully restored Federal-style mansion built in 1809, directly across from the town bandstand, with eight guest rooms and suites, seven of them featuring fireplaces. Choose from two spacious suites with a king bed and a separate room with two twins, two junior suites with king beds, or cozy queen rooms tucked away on the quiet top floors.
Morning is another reason guests choose us over many hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire. Guests can reserve an à la carte breakfast prepared fresh to order, whether you are looking for something light or a heartier meal before exploring the Seacoast. When you do not feel like walking anywhere at all, dinner at Ambrose is just one flight of stairs from your suite.
Book Your Exeter Foodie Getaway
If you are looking for hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire, that let you experience the best of Exeter, NH, restaurants, we would love to welcome you. Book your room at Inn by the Bandstand and start planning your foodie getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best restaurants in Exeter, NH?
Ambrose, Vino e Vivo, Il Cornicello, Epoch Restaurant & Bar, and Fat Hen Brewing Co. are among the top restaurants in Exeter, NH, ranging from fine dining to casual pub fare.
What is there to do in Exeter, NH?
Beyond its restaurant scene, Exeter offers Water Street shopping, the Squamscott River waterfront, the American Independence Museum, and the campus of Phillips Exeter Academy, all within walking distance of downtown.
Where is Exeter, NH?
Exeter sits on New Hampshire’s Seacoast, about twenty minutes southwest of Portsmouth and roughly an hour north of Boston.
Where should you stay for an Exeter, NH, foodie getaway?
Inn by the Bandstand sits directly across from the town bandstand in downtown Exeter, placing nearly every restaurant in this guide within an easy walk of your room.