Food & Drink
Explore Finger Lakes Cider House & More in Upstate NY
Best Tasting at Finger Lakes Cider House in Upstate NY
A visit to Finger Lakes Cider House is one of the most unique things to do in Finger Lakes NY. Overlooking Cayuga Lake and the rolling orchards of Good Life Farm, this beloved cider house captures the creative spirit of the region while offering a true farm-to-glass experience.
While the Finger Lakes is widely known for award-winning vineyards, it is also a leader in artisan hard cider production. At Finger Lakes Cider House, you’ll discover crisp, dry, and complex ciders crafted from organic apples grown right on the property. Order a tasting flight featuring favorites like the Funkhouse and Pioneer Pippin, then pair your cider tasting with local cheeses, charcuterie, or a farm-fresh grilled sandwich.
The relaxed lawn setting invites guests to sit back and relax. You may find friends gathered around a cornhole game, couples sharing a bottle at sunset, or visitors exploring the orchard before settling in with a glass. For travelers searching for cideries near me or planning tours in the Finger Lakes, this stop belongs at the top of the list.
Beyond the Finger Lakes Cider House, several exceptional cideries and Finger Lakes wineries are located nearby, including Bellwether Hard Cider, Black Diamond Farm and Cider, South Hill Cider, and New York Cider Company. Each offers its own approach to traditional cider-making methods and locally grown apple varieties.
Stay Near Finger Lakes Cider House at Our Upstate NY Hotel
After a day of cider tasting, return to one of the most welcoming Hotels in Upstate New York. Located just a scenic drive from the Finger Lakes Cider House, our boutique inn offers thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, spa services, and a fresh breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients.
Guests appreciate the walkable village location, relaxing hot tub, and on-site Finger Lakes Spa. Whether you’re planning a unique getaway centered around cider houses, wineries, or outdoor exploration, our inn provides the perfect home base. Reserve your stay and experience the Finger Lakes Cider House and beyond in comfort and style.
Explore the Connecticut Wine Trail from Mystic
Why Mystic Is the Ideal Base for the Connecticut Wine Trail
The Connecticut Wine Trail connects 20 member wineries across the state, and with more than 45 licensed farm wineries statewide, there is no shortage of places to sip and discover. From the Litchfield Hills to the southeastern shoreline, Connecticut wineries have built a reputation for exceptional wines in a cool-climate growing region. Alongside cold-hardy hybrids, many vineyards grow varietals like Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling that thrive in the state’s unique conditions. Whether you prefer a guided flight or a relaxed glass overlooking the vines, wine tasting in Connecticut offers as much variety as the landscape itself.
Downtown Mystic is one of the best places to anchor a Connecticut Wine Trail getaway. Jonathan Edwards Winery sits just a few miles away in North Stonington, one of the state’s most recognized producers with a loyal following for both Connecticut-grown wines and carefully selected California fruit. Between tastings, grab a casual bite at Mystic Fish Camp, stroll along the Mystic River, browse downtown boutiques and galleries, or take in sunset sips aboard the historic steamboat Sabino. The Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium round out a weekend built around the best wineries near Mystic, CT.
After a day exploring Connecticut wineries and things to do in Mystic, settle into one of the best boutique hotels in Mystic, CT. Located in the heart of historic downtown, The Whaler’s Inn sits within walking distance of the Bascule Bridge, waterfront restaurants, local shops, and Mystic’s most popular attractions, making it the ideal home base for a wine getaway along the shoreline.
Plan Your Connecticut Wine Trail Getaway
The Connecticut Wine Trail route stretches from the rolling hills of the Litchfield Hills to the vineyards along the southeastern shoreline. The official trail includes 20 member wineries, each with its own tasting room and distinctive wines. Many also take part in the annual Passport to Connecticut Farm Wineries program, where visitors collect stamps as they explore the state. Most tasting rooms welcome walk-in guests, though reservations are recommended for larger groups or special events.
What makes wine tasting in Connecticut especially enjoyable is the range among wineries. Some focus on guided tastings with curated flights and local cheese or charcuterie, while others invite guests to relax outdoors with a glass overlooking the vineyards. The wineries near Mystic, CT, are especially convenient for shoreline visitors and include some of the state’s most scenic vineyards.
A few favorites near Mystic include:
- Jonathan Edwards Winery, in North Stonington, about 16 minutes from downtown Mystic, occupies a beautifully restored 1880 dairy barn on a 48-acre property surrounded by rolling countryside. Known for its bi-coastal approach, the winery produces wines from both Connecticut-grown grapes and select California fruit, with tastings, events, and outdoor seating available through much of the year.
- Stonington Vineyards, just 10 minutes from Mystic, has been producing wine since 1987 and was one of the founding members of the Connecticut Wine Trail. The vineyard is known for its award-winning Chardonnay, Seaport White, and Triad Rosé, and hosts live music and seasonal celebrations year-round.
- Saltwater Farm Vineyard, also just minutes from Mystic, pours wine inside a beautifully restored World War II-era airplane hangar overlooking tidal marshes and the Connecticut shoreline. The 108-acre vineyard grows six grape varieties, and live music, food trucks, and events run from spring through late fall.
A little planning makes a wine getaway even better. Check each winery’s website ahead of time for seasonal hours, live music, and food truck schedules, since offerings shift throughout the year. If you plan to visit more than one winery in a day, arrange a designated driver or transportation. Spring through fall is the busiest season, while winter offers a quieter, more leisurely pace. Because the wineries near Mystic, CT, sit just a short drive apart, it is easy to spread visits across a weekend and still leave time for downtown Mystic and the shoreline.
Stay at One of the Best Boutique Hotels in Mystic, CT
Whether you plan to visit one winery or spend several days exploring the Connecticut Wine Trail, staying at The Whaler’s Inn in downtown Mystic puts you within easy reach of the state’s most celebrated vineyards, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and waterfront charm. Our historic buildings offer rooms and suites for every kind of traveler, from the adults-only Hoxie House to the Stanton House’s river-view suites.
For guests continuing the culinary experience after a day of wine tasting, curated packages feature in-room charcuterie and local wine, while The Shipwright’s Daughter, our James Beard Award-winning restaurant, serves seasonal cuisine crafted with New England ingredients, including breakfast to fuel a day at the wineries. Featured in Travel + Leisure, The New York Times, and Cosmopolitan, The Whaler’s Inn remains one of the most celebrated boutique hotels Mystic, CT, has to offer.
Book Your Wine Getaway in Mystic
A Connecticut Wine Trail getaway is only as good as the place you return to at the end of the day. Book your stay at The Whaler’s Inn and start planning your visits to the best wineries near Mystic, CT.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Connecticut Wine Trail?
The Connecticut Wine Trail is an official route connecting 20 member wineries across the state, from the Litchfield Hills to the southeastern shoreline, with a Passport program that lets visitors collect stamps as they go.
How many wineries are in Connecticut?
Connecticut has more than 45 licensed farm wineries statewide, with 20 of them belonging to the official Connecticut Wine Trail.
Where should you stay for a Connecticut Wine Trail getaway near Mystic?
Downtown Mystic makes an ideal base, since wineries like Stonington Vineyards, Saltwater Farm Vineyard, and Jonathan Edwards Winery are all within a 20-minute drive.
Where is the best place to stay in Mystic, CT?
The Whaler’s Inn sits in the heart of historic downtown Mystic, within walking distance of the Bascule Bridge, waterfront dining, and local shops, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby wineries.
Explore the Dane County Farmers Market This Season
Best Dane County Farmers Market Guide for Spring
Spring and summer in Madison bring longer days, open-air dining, and one of the Midwest’s most celebrated food experiences: the Dane County Farmers Market. As the largest farmers market in the US, this iconic Wisconsin farmers market surrounds the Capitol Square and showcases producers from across the state. Saturday mornings are filled with fresh vegetables, artisan cheeses, baked goods, flowers, and a steady flow of locals and visitors discovering what makes this Madison farmers market so special.
The Dane County Farmers Market is unique in its producer-only model. Every vendor sells items they have grown, raised, or made themselves, creating a direct connection between shoppers and Wisconsin farmers. Founded in 1972, the market has grown into a cornerstone of the city’s culture and remains one of the best things to do in Madison during spring and summer. Whether you are searching for a farmers market near me or planning a Midwest getaway, this experience delivers both flavor and authenticity.
Beyond the market, downtown Madison offers plenty to explore. Lake Mendota paths invite morning walks, State Street offers shopping and dining, and museums add depth to a weekend itinerary. Many visitors build an entire day around the market, pairing it with bike rides, patio lunches, or neighborhood exploring.
Places to Stay in Madison, WI Near the Market
After a full day downtown, choosing the right place to stay in Madison, WI, adds comfort to your visit. Choosing a charming Bed and Breakfast is a relaxed alternative to larger hotels. Located minutes from the Capitol Square, The Buckingham Inn is easy to walk or drive to the Dane County Farmers Market and nearby restaurants.
Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared breakfast that reflects the same appreciation for quality found at the market itself. Guests enjoy five-star hospitality, local recommendations, and a peaceful setting that feels personal rather than crowded. For travelers planning a spring or summer getaway built around food, culture, and walkable experiences, our inn is perfectly positioned.
Make the most of your visit to the Dane County Farmers Market and enjoy a stay that connects you to a different side of Madison, WI. Book your room today and start planning your best Midwest getaway.
Explore the Dining Options at Bainbridge Island Restaurants
Best Hitchcock Bainbridge Dining Experience
Hitchcock Bainbridge has long been a driving force behind some of the most talked-about Bainbridge Island restaurants. With the debut of Kingfisher Restaurant, the Hitchcock Restaurant Group adds another layer to its culinary footprint, blending seasonal Pacific Northwest ingredients with a warm, contemporary atmosphere in the heart of Winslow.
Kingfisher Restaurant feels both refined and welcoming. By day, it operates as a boutique food market and wine bar with thoughtfully curated wines, sake, cider, and sherry. By evening, it transforms into one of the most exciting places to eat on Bainbridge Island, offering small plates inspired by Japanese izakaya and Spanish tapas traditions. Expect freshly shucked oysters, seasonal crudo, grilled skewers, and vegetable dishes sourced from Kingfisher Creek Farm. Several times a month, prix fixe tasting dinners highlight the creativity that defines Hitchcock Bainbridge.
Beyond Kingfisher, the broader Hitchcock Bainbridge portfolio strengthens the island’s reputation for exceptional dining. Bruciato delivers wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas, Hitchcock Delicatessen reimagines the classic deli, and Café Hitchcock provides daytime fare crafted with local ingredients. Together, these restaurants on Bainbridge Island reflect a cohesive vision rooted in quality and hospitality.
Stay at the Only Downtown Bainbridge Island Hotel
After dinner at Kingfisher Restaurant or another favorite from Hitchcock Bainbridge, complete your island escape at the only Downtown Bainbridge Island Hotel. Located just steps from the ferry and Winslow Way, Eagle Harbor Inn places you within walking distance of the best Bainbridge Island restaurants, boutiques, and galleries.
Spacious suites, thoughtfully appointed guest rooms, and private parking make exploring effortless. Guests also enjoy freshly brewed Pegasus Coffee each morning and access to Island Fitness passes during their stay. Whether you arrive by ferry for the evening or plan a full island getaway, pairing Hitchcock Bainbridge dining with a stay downtown captures the very best of Bainbridge Island. Reserve your room and experience the island’s most celebrated flavors just outside your door.
Explore the Offerings at Madrone Cellars on San Juan Island
Madrone Cellars Wine Tasting in Friday Harbor
If you are looking for exceptional Madrone Cellars experiences on San Juan Island, this locally owned winery offers a memorable introduction to the region’s growing wine scene. Founded by husband-and-wife team Shaun and Amy Salamida, Madrone Cellars blends traditional winemaking techniques with a commitment to sustainable farming, creating distinctive Washington wines that reflect the island’s cool maritime climate.
Visitors can enjoy wine tasting in Friday Harbor at the Madrone Bar + Kitchen on First Street, where wine flights, handcrafted ciders, fresh salads, housemade hummus, and cheese plates are served in the inviting outdoor wine garden. The welcoming atmosphere makes it an excellent stop on a downtown Friday Harbor exploration, and the tasting room is family- and pet-friendly.
For a more in-depth experience, reserve a private tasting at the production winery in San Juan Valley. Guided by winemaker Shaun Salamida, these tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at natural winemaking, barrel tastings, and the vineyard’s regenerative farming practices. The winery partners with Saltwater Farm to produce island-grown grapes and crafts small-batch wines that showcase the unique character of San Juan Island.
Madrone Cellars also produces carefully crafted dry ciders made from locally grown apples, offering another distinctive tasting experience. Sustainability is woven throughout the operation, from composting vineyard materials to its innovative Bottle Reuse Program, reflecting the winery’s long-term commitment to environmental stewardship.
The Best Island Getaway in Friday Harbor
After enjoying one of the top things to do in Friday Harbor, return to Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites, located just two blocks from the ferry terminal and within easy walking distance of Madrone Bar + Kitchen. Guests begin each morning with a complimentary gourmet breakfast delivered directly to your room before setting out to explore the island.
Whether your itinerary includes whale watching, kayaking, shopping, or visiting other Washington State wineries, Tucker House Inn & Harrison House Suites offers a convenient and comfortable home base. Spacious guest rooms, suites, and cottages, along with concierge assistance for arranging tastings and island activities, make it easy to experience the very best of San Juan Island. When searching for hotels in Friday Harbor, few locations place you closer to outstanding food, local wine, and unforgettable island adventures.
Explore these Michelin Star Restaurants in Nashville
Michelin Star Restaurants in Nashville for Elevated Dining
Nashville has long been celebrated for its Southern comfort food, but the city’s dining scene has expanded well beyond meat-and-three plates and hot chicken. Today, Michelin Star restaurants in Nashville are drawing food-focused travelers who plan entire itineraries around reservations. From tasting menus to Michelin Guide–recognized counters, fine dining in Music City continues to evolve.
Currently, Nashville is home to three Michelin-starred restaurants, each offering a distinct approach to modern cuisine. The Catbird Seat delivers an interactive, counter-style tasting menu where precision and creativity are on full display. With just 22 seats, dining here feels personal and immersive, making advance reservations essential. Bastion offers a seasonal tasting menu in a relaxed but intentional setting in the Wedgewood-Houston neighborhood, with bold flavors and thoughtful pacing throughout the evening. Locust rounds out the list with a Japanese-influenced menu designed for sharing, showcasing modern technique and frequently changing dishes.
Beyond the starred restaurants, the Michelin Guide highlights several top-notch dining destinations across the city. Bib Gourmand winners like Hattie B’s Hot Chicken prove that excellence doesn’t require formality, while restaurants such as Tailor, Audrey, and Rolf and Daughters continue to define what the best restaurants in Nashville look like today. These top-rated restaurants near me searches often lead diners to experiences rooted in local farms, strong technique, and creative leadership.
Stay Close to the Best Fine Dining in Nashville
After an evening exploring Michelin Star restaurants in Nashville, returning to a peaceful place to unwind makes all the difference. Belle Air Mansion places you close to the city’s top restaurants while offering a refined retreat away from the crowds. Each morning begins with a plated Southern breakfast, served with care and changing daily to reflect seasonal ingredients.
With comfortable accommodations, attentive service, and a location that balances convenience with quiet, this Nashville Bed and Breakfast is an ideal home base for a food-focused getaway. Whether you’re securing hard-to-get reservations or discovering new favorites, our team is happy to help plan your dining experiences. Start planning your stay and enjoy the best of Nashville dining with ease.
Explore Virginia Wine Country on Your Next Visit
The Best of Virginia Wine Country for a Couples Getaway
Virginia wine country has become one of the most compelling destinations in the South for couples seeking a refined and relaxed escape. Within a few hours of Washington, DC, rolling countryside and vineyard-lined roads introduce visitors to a growing collection of Virginia wineries producing distinctive wines that reflect the region’s character. For couples planning time away, Virginia wine country offers both variety and accessibility.
The region spans multiple wine-producing areas, each with its own appeal. The Monticello AVA near Charlottesville is widely recognized for its concentration of wineries, while the Shenandoah Valley offers cooler conditions and scenic mountain backdrops. Northern Virginia and Loudoun County provide convenient access to tasting rooms, making them ideal for shorter trips. Across these regions, visitors will find more than 300 wineries contributing to the continued rise of Virginia wine.
Wine varietals play a key role in defining the experience. Viognier stands out among white wines for its aromatic profile, while Cabernet Franc produces balanced reds that are widely appreciated. Petit Verdot and Petit Manseng are also gaining attention for their structure and depth. Exploring these wines across different vineyards adds dimension to any visit. One winery not to miss is Veritas Winery!
Stay at a Winery Bed and Breakfast in Virginia
First, you’ll want to choose your lodging in Virginia! A Winery Bed and Breakfast in Virginia allows guests to remain close to the vineyards while enjoying a private, comfortable setting. At the Orchard House B&B, there’s a small vineyard on-site, and guests can take in the surroundings without leaving the property.
Days in Virginia wine country often include scenic drives, tastings, and stops in small towns with locally focused dining. Evenings provide time to relax by a fire pit or enjoy a quiet moment outdoors. Amenities such as a saltwater pool, wrap-around porch, and thoughtfully designed guest rooms create a setting that supports both exploration and downtime.
For couples looking to fully experience Virginia wine country, staying overnight allows for a more complete and enjoyable visit. With a mix of established vineyards and emerging wineries, Virginia wine country continues to grow as one of the most engaging destinations in the South.
Finger Lakes Breweries: Best Craft Beer Near Cayuga and Seneca Lakes
A Craft Beer Trail Worth the Drive
Wine gets most of the attention in upstate New York, but Finger Lakes breweries have built a following of their own. Trumansburg sits almost exactly between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake, which puts our Finger Lakes Wine Country Hotel within a short drive of nearly every stop worth making. Whether you’re after a hoppy IPA, a farmhouse ale, or a cider flight after a hike, the breweries in the Finger Lakes cover a lot of ground without requiring much driving at all.
The Finger Lakes Beer Trail links more than 75 craft breweries across the region, and a Trumansburg base gives you a natural starting point. You’re minutes from Taughannock Falls State Park, close enough to Ithaca for an afternoon downtown, and plenty of other things to do in the Finger Lakes.
Breweries Near Cayuga Lake and Trumansburg
Garrett’s Brewing Co. is the closest local brewery, within walking distance of downtown Trumansburg. The taproom pours hoppy brews alongside pub favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and soft pretzels, and it hosts live music most weekends plus a Thursday open mic that draws a loyal crowd.
Ithaca Beer Co. sits on a farm between two Ithaca-area state parks, making it a natural stop after a morning outdoors. The patio has heaters and fire pits for cooler weather, and the kitchen turns out wood-fired pizza, burgers, and wings.
Liquid State Brewing pairs a heated patio and barrel room with a beer list that ranges from IPAs to Belgians, Germans, and sours. The food menu covers wood-fired pizza, including gluten-free crusts, along with German bratwurst and small plates.
Salt Point Brewing Co. in Lansing built its name on a flagship IPA, a saison, and a stout, though the wood-fired sourdough pizzas bring in just as many regulars. A four-pour flight runs $12 and pairs well with a classic Margherita.
Farther Toward Seneca Lake
Lucky Hare Brewing runs two Finger Lakes breweries, one in Watkins Glen and one in Hector, putting it firmly on the Seneca Lake side of a beer trail day. The Hector taproom sits on farmland with an open view of the lake, a good stop if you’re extending past the usual Cayuga loop.
Finger Lakes Cider House, based at the organic Good Life Farm in Interlaken, makes cider rather than beer, but it belongs on any full tasting itinerary. The ciders are pressed from apples grown on site and pair well with the cheese and charcuterie boards in the tasting room.
Planning Your Trip
Between the Cayuga Lake breweries close to Trumansburg and the Seneca Lake stops a bit farther out, you can cover most of what the Finger Lakes beer scene offers in a single weekend. If you’d rather split the trip between beer and wine, our Finger Lakes Wine Country Hotel staff is knowledgeable about the Seneca Lake wineries and is happy to point you in the right direction.
Your Home Base for a Finger Lakes Brewery Weekend
Staying at the Inn at Gothic Eves means all the Finger Lakes breweries are within an easy drive. Our Finger Lakes Wine Country Hotel is a ten-minute walk from Garrett’s, so there’s no need to plan around a designated driver for at least one stop on your list. Guests wake up to a locally sourced organic breakfast each morning and can book a massage or soak in one of our outdoor hot tubs at the on-site spa, a good way to recover after a few tasting flights.
Book your room at the Inn at Gothic Eves and use it as your base for a Finger Lakes breweries weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many breweries are in the Finger Lakes?
The official Finger Lakes Beer Trail includes more than 75 craft breweries spread across the region, with concentrations near both Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake.
What is the Finger Lakes Beer Trail?
It’s a self-guided trail connecting craft breweries throughout the Finger Lakes region, similar in concept to the area’s well-known wine trails.
What is the closest brewery to Trumansburg, NY?
Garrett’s Brewing Co. is the closest, located in downtown Trumansburg within walking distance of the Inn at Gothic Eves.
Are there Finger Lakes breweries near Seneca Lake as well as Cayuga Lake?
Yes. Lucky Hare Brewing in Hector and Watkins Glen covers the Seneca Lake side, while Garrett’s, Ithaca Beer Co., Liquid State Brewing, and Salt Point Brewing Co. sit closer to Cayuga Lake.
Galena Wineries & More Make the Perfect Couple’s Getaway
A Couple’s Getaway Built Around Galena Wineries
If your idea of a perfect escape includes a great glass of wine and a charming town you can actually walk, Galena should be at the top of your list. From tasting rooms in downtown Galena to vineyards just outside town, Galena wineries make it easy to plan a relaxed couples’ trip with plenty of variety. Start with a stroll along historic streets, pop into locally owned boutiques, then settle in for a tasting, no complicated planning required.
Wine lovers have plenty of options for their getaway. Galena Cellars Winery is a local favorite with a lively tasting room and a vineyard setting that feels like classic wine country, especially during seasonal events and live music. Massbach Ridge Winery sits on a scenic hilltop and keeps the vibe easygoing, with indoor and outdoor tastings and a broad list that works whether you lean dry, sweet, or somewhere in between.
For a laid-back stop with a playful personality, Fergedaboudit Vineyard & Winery pairs vineyard views with a welcoming atmosphere that invites you to linger. And Rocky Waters Winery offers a cozy, family-owned experience, perfect for slowing down and stretching the afternoon.
If you’d rather taste without driving, downtown spots like The Grape Escape and Champagne on Main keep the pours close to shopping and dinner reservations. You can also hand off the logistics to local favorites like Galena Wine Tours or Countryside Tours, then focus on what matters: Enjoying the day together.
Stay Close to the Sips at Our Galena Bed and Breakfast
Of course, there are far more things to do in Galena, IL than drink wine. To make the most of Galena wineries and more, stay a few days. Our award-winning Galena Bed and Breakfast is a one-tank trip from many Midwest cities, and an easy couples’ escape near Chicago. Each afternoon, we deliver wine and cheese trays right to your room, with house wines included. Want something local? Upgrade to a Galena Cellars bottle labeled for Jail Hill Inn.
Between tastings, fill your itinerary with spa time, gourmet dining, nature trails, and seasonal wine weekends. If you’re visiting in early June, Corkless Galena is a must. In the fall, don’t miss the Massbach Stomp and Galena Cellars’ Nouveau Wine Festival each November. Book direct, settle into your suite, and let Galena do what it does best: make it easy to relax.