Food & Drink
Head to Lift Bridge Brewery in Stillwater
Best Lift Bridge Brewery Guide for a Romantic Stillwater Trip
Stillwater is one of Minnesota’s most charming river towns, offering historic streets, scenic river views, and a growing food and beverage scene. Among the top things to do in Stillwater MN, a visit to Lift Bridge Brewery should be at the top of your itinerary. Founded in 2008, Lift Bridge Brewery has become one of the Midwest’s most recognized craft beverage producers, attracting visitors from across the region.
Located in downtown Stillwater, Lift Bridge Brewery combines innovation with community involvement. The taproom welcomes guests daily and offers a diverse lineup of beverages ranging from craft beer and hard seltzers to ready-to-drink cocktails and specialty releases. Whether you are a longtime craft beer enthusiast or simply looking to experience a local favorite, there is something for every taste.
One of the brewery’s most talked-about offerings is Farm Day Golden Ale, the successor to the well-known Farm Girl Saison. This approachable beer features notes of golden malts, wheat, and oats, making it an excellent choice for a relaxing afternoon. Lift Bridge Brewing is also known for creating unique seasonal releases and Minnesota State Fair favorites that have helped establish its reputation throughout the region.
Visitors will find plenty to enjoy beyond the tap list. The brewery regularly hosts trivia nights, food truck events, happy hour specials, and charitable community gatherings. Townie Tuesday remains one of its most popular traditions, supporting local nonprofit organizations while bringing residents and visitors together in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hotels in Stillwater for a Romantic Stay
After spending the day exploring Lift Bridge Brewery and the surrounding downtown district, make it a romantic getaway in MN at Water Street Inn. Located along the St. Croix River, this historic property places guests within walking distance of many of Stillwater’s most popular attractions.
The Hotel features Victorian-style accommodations, riverfront views, and suites overlooking the iconic lift bridge. Guests can also enjoy on-site dining and convenient access to Main Street shopping, galleries, and waterfront activities. For visitors searching for Hotels in Stillwater that combine historic character with modern comfort, Water Street Inn offers an ideal home base.
From sampling local beverages at Lift Bridge Brewery to exploring the charm of downtown Stillwater, this romantic Midwest destination offers plenty of reasons to plan your next getaway.
Head to the Flagler Beachfront Winery on Your Next Getaway
Best Flagler Beachfront Winery Experience
Flagler Beachfront Winery offers one of the most enjoyable and relaxed experiences for couples looking for things to do in Flagler Beach. Located directly along the ocean, this Flagler Beach winery pairs coastal views with a diverse selection of wines, creating an easygoing setting that encourages you to slow down and stay awhile.
The winery’s lineup includes everything from dry reds to fruit-forward whites, along with Florida-grown varietals that reflect the region’s warm climate. One of the most popular features is the wine slushies, a refreshing option that blends flavor and texture into a cool, beach-ready drink. With options like watermelon, raspberry, and tropical blends, these frozen selections add a distinctive twist to a traditional tasting experience.
The outdoor patio is a highlight of the Flagler Beachfront Winery, offering direct views of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can settle under shaded seating and enjoy a tasting flight, a glass of wine, or a shared charcuterie board featuring meats, cheeses, and accompaniments. The casual atmosphere makes it easy to spend an afternoon sampling different selections or to transition into an evening visit, with the sound of nearby waves.
In addition to wine, the winery is also home to a craft distillery, expanding the menu to include small-batch spirits such as rum, vodka, and agave-based options. These are occasionally incorporated into specialty drinks, adding variety for those interested in trying something beyond wine. With knowledgeable staff and a welcoming environment, it is a well-rounded stop for couples exploring the area. Next, you can head out to one of the best Flagler Beach restaurants for dinner!
Stay at one of the Most Romantic Flagler Beach Hotels
Staying at nearby Flagler Beach Hotels enhances the experience by keeping you close to both the shoreline and the winery. Island Cottage Inn offers a convenient location just minutes away, making it easy to walk or take a short drive between your accommodations and the winery.
Guests can return to thoughtfully designed suites featuring private balconies, jacuzzi tubs, and comfortable interiors that complement a day spent outdoors. A morning continental breakfast provides a relaxed start before heading out to explore more of Flagler Beach.
With its combination of ocean views, wine tastings, and accessible lodging, Flagler Beachfront Winery is a natural addition to any couple’s getaway. Plan your visit and book your stay at one of the best places to visit in Florida for couples!
Hood River Wine Tasting
Visit Marchesi Vineyards During Your Columbia Gorge Getaway
If a wine tasting getaway to Hood River is on your calendar, Marchesi Vineyards deserves a spot on the itinerary. Franco Marchesi built the winery to bring the wines of his native Piedmont, Italy to the Columbia Gorge. It is one of the few places in the Pacific Northwest pouring Italian varietals grown on American soil. The tasting room sits on Belmont Drive with a view of the vines and Mount Hood in the distance, and it operates first come, first served, so there is no need to book ahead. In summer, misters and fans keep the patio comfortable. In winter, blankets, fire pits, and heaters do the same job, and leashed dogs are welcome outside year-round.
What Is Nebbiolo Wine?
Nebbiolo is Marchesi’s signature pour, and it is worth knowing the grape before you taste it. Nebbiolo is an Italian red variety tied to the Piedmont region, the same area Franco grew up in. Its name likely comes from nebbia, the Italian word for fog, since the grapes are often picked late in the season when fog settles over the vineyards. A young Nebbiolo wine is light in color but heavy in tannin. As it ages, the rim shifts toward brick orange, and into layers of violet, tar, herbs, cherry, raspberry, tobacco, and prune. Some bottles need years before those tannins settle into balance.
Wines to Try at Marchesi Vineyards
Marchesi pours a full range of Italian reds, whites, and sparkling wines. The Barbera Achille is a good starting point, easy to pair with a cold beer or a plate of short ribs, and it won gold at the San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition. The Nebbiolo itself took silver at that same competition and double gold at the LA Invitational Wine and Spirits Competition. The Capolavoro, a red blend with dark plum, dried violet, and a touch of cinnamon on the finish, pairs well with porchetta. For a white, the Il Bianco blends estate-grown Pinot Grigio with Chardonnay from Sunnyside, bright with honeysuckle and green apple, and it works nicely alongside oysters or clam linguini.
Marchesi’s Fall Winemaker’s Dinner
If your trip lands in mid-October, Marchesi hosts a multi-course winemaker’s dinner paired with their wines, set to live opera with singers performing between courses. Tickets tend to sell out, so reserve a spot early if this is part of your plan.
Wineries Near the Columbia River Gorge
Marchesi Vineyards and other wineries near the Columbia River Gorge are twenty to thirty minutes apart, which makes it easy to string together two or three tasting rooms in an afternoon without spending the whole day in the car. Add a waterfall hike or a river viewpoint to cover the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge.
Where to Stay: Cabins Near Hood River
Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins sits thirty minutes from downtown Hood River and an hour from Portland, close enough to spend your afternoon at Marchesi Vineyards and still be back in time to relax. Each private cabin comes with a gourmet breakfast, a jetted spa tub, and a fireplace.Two of the cabins are dog-friendly, so your pup gets to be part of the whole trip instead of waiting at home. It is one of the more private cabins near Hood River for a couple planning a romantic getaway to the Columbia Gorge Wine Country.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nebbiolo wine?
Nebbiolo is an Italian red wine grape from Piedmont, known for light color, high tannin when young, and notes of violet, tar, cherry, and tobacco as it ages.
Does Nebbiolo wine taste dry?
Yes. Nebbiolo is typically a dry red wine with firm tannins and high acidity, which is part of why it pairs so well with rich food.
Do I need a reservation to visit Marchesi Vineyards?
No. The tasting room is first come, first served, with outdoor seating available in every season.
Are dogs allowed at Marchesi Vineyards?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on the patio.
Where should I stay near Marchesi Vineyards?
Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins is thirty minutes from Marchesi Vineyards and offers private cabins with breakfast, spa tubs, and dog-friendly lodging options for a wine tasting getaway.
Ready to plan your Hood River wine tasting getaway? Book your stay at Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins and make one of the private cabins near Hood River your home base for the trip.
Learn More About Bell’s Brewery in Downtown Kalamazoo
Visit Bell’s Brewery on Your Next Getaway
A visit to Bell’s Brewery is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Kalamazoo, MI. Located in the heart of downtown, this iconic destination has helped shape Michigan’s craft beer culture since 1985. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Two Hearted Ale or simply interested in exploring the city’s renowned brewing scene, Bell’s Brewery offers brewery tours, exceptional beer, live entertainment, and inviting dining in one memorable stop. For couples planning a getaway, it is an ideal place to experience downtown Kalamazoo’s energy.
Bell’s Brewery began as a homebrewing supply shop before growing into one of the country’s most respected craft breweries. Today, visitors can tour the original Kalamazoo brewing location and learn about the brewing process, the company’s history, and the craftsmanship behind its most recognizable beers. Sampling signature brews alongside seasonal and limited releases gives guests an even greater appreciation for Bell’s lasting influence on Michigan’s beer industry.
Connected to the brewery, Bell’s Eccentric Cafe combines a taproom, restaurant, beer garden, and live music venue into one lively gathering place. With more than 20 beers on draft, visitors can enjoy everything from hop-forward IPAs to rich stouts while pairing their selections with smash burgers, creative appetizers, and hearty sandwiches. The downtown campus also hosts concerts, special events, and seasonal celebrations, making every visit a little different. It’s one of the best places to eat in Kalamazoo!
Guests should also stop by Bell’s General Store to browse brewery apparel, glassware, homebrewing supplies, and souvenirs before continuing their exploration of other Kalamazoo breweries. Bell’s is an excellent starting point for discovering the city’s growing craft beer community, with several breweries just minutes away.
Stay at a Downtown Kalamazoo Hotel
After an afternoon exploring Bell’s Brewery, return to the comfort of The Kalamazoo House. Located just minutes from downtown, this boutique Kalamazoo Hotel offers beautifully restored Victorian accommodations, personalized hospitality, and a peaceful setting after a day of sightseeing. Wake each morning to a thoughtfully prepared breakfast before heading out to discover even more of the city’s restaurants, museums, theaters, and breweries in Kalamazoo.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a couples getaway, Bell’s Brewery and The Kalamazoo House create the perfect combination of craft beer, local culture, and comfortable accommodations. Book your stay today.
North Carolina Wineries Worth the Drive from Saluda
A Wine Country Getaway Between Two AVAs
Saluda sits in the best spot for exploring North Carolina wineries. The Tryon Foothills AVA covers Polk County to the south, and the Crest of the Blue Ridge Henderson County AVA covers wine country around Hendersonville to the north. Both are within about half an hour of our inn, which makes a wine country getaway easy to plan without long drives eating into your tasting time. Here are the North Carolina wineries we recommend most often when guests ask where to start.
Wineries Near Tryon, NC
About 25 minutes from the inn, Parker-Binns Vineyard sits on a 40-acre estate in Mill Spring within the Tryon Foothills AVA, pouring Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Franc, and several other varieties from tasting areas overlooking the vines. A few minutes further, Overmountain Vineyards produces French-inspired estate wines and includes a certified section of the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail crossing its property. Nearby, Mountain Brook Vineyards offers walk-in tastings on The Lawn or a reserved guided tasting in the Vintner Room, making it flexible for groups with different preferences.
Wineries Near Hendersonville, NC
Burntshirt Vineyards farms two vineyards at elevations up to roughly 3,400 feet within the Crest of the Blue Ridge AVA, with tastings, tours, and a meal at the on-site Vintner’s Table. Stone Ashe Vineyards focuses on Bordeaux-influenced reds in a tasting room overlooking the mountains, and it’s a 21-and-older property, so it suits couples looking for a quieter visit. Point Lookout Vineyards sits at about 3,000 feet with panoramic views that can stretch toward Mount Mitchell on a clear day. Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards, on land the Ward family has farmed for generations, keeps things relaxed with weekend live music and food trucks alongside its daily tastings.
A Longer Day Trip to Biltmore Estate Winery
About an hour from Saluda, Biltmore Estate Winery is the most-visited winery in the country, and visiting the estate for a Biltmore Mansion tour is among the most popular things to do near Saluda. Complimentary tastings are currently included with estate admission and don’t require a separate reservation, though you’ll need a valid ticket, annual pass, or qualifying stay to access the winery. It pairs well with a full day at Biltmore House and Antler Hill Village, so we suggest treating it as its own Asheville outing.
Your Bed and Breakfast in the NC Mountains for This Wine Country Getaway
Wine country is only half the trip. The Orchard Inn is a historic Bed and Breakfast in the NC mountains, built in 1926 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, just five minutes from downtown Saluda and within easy reach of both AVAs. We offer nine rooms in the main inn, five cottages, and two luxury suites across 12 acres, several with mountain views and fireplaces.
Mornings start with a full, made-to-order breakfast served in our glassed-in dining room overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. In the evening, Newman’s Restaurant serves a weekly-changing, farm-to-table menu built around produce from our own organic garden, with dinner Thursday through Saturday and Sunday brunch. Between winery visits, guests can book a massage or facial at our on-site spa, unwind in the outdoor cedar sauna, or settle onto the porch with a book.
Book your stay at The Orchard Inn and use it as your home base for a North Carolina wine country getaway, with vineyards in two AVAs close by and a quiet mountain retreat waiting for you at the end of each day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many wineries are in North Carolina?
North Carolina has roughly 200 wineries statewide, though the number shifts from year to year across several federally recognized growing regions, including the two nearest to Saluda.
Which North Carolina wineries are closest to Saluda?
Parker-Binns Vineyard and Burntshirt Vineyards are among the closest, each about 25 minutes from the inn, with Saint Paul Mountain Vineyards a similar distance in the Hendersonville area.
Do North Carolina wineries near Saluda require reservations?
It varies by winery. Overmountain and Stone Ashe recommend reservations, especially for groups, and Burntshirt requires them for parties of six or more. Mountain Brook’s Lawn tastings and Biltmore’s complimentary tasting don’t currently require one.
Is Biltmore Estate Winery worth the extra drive?
For many guests, yes. It’s farther than the other wineries on this list, but it’s the most-visited winery in the country and lets you build a full day around Biltmore House and Antler Hill Village.
One of the Best Virginia Getaways for Wine Lovers
Best Virginia Getaways for Couples in Wine Country
Virginia has long earned its reputation as a destination for connection, and nowhere does that feel more fitting than in wine country. Rolling vineyard views, relaxed tasting rooms, and scenic back roads set the stage for Virginia getaways designed with couples in mind. From Charlottesville to Lovingston, wine-focused weekend getaways in Virginia invite you to explore and enjoy experiences that are that much better when shared with your favorite person.
Wine tasting here feels more intimate than other wine regions in the country. Many vineyards are locally owned, with winemakers often leading tastings and sharing stories behind each pour. A day spent exploring the Monticello Wine Trail might include sampling expressive reds at a mountain-top winery, enjoying a cheese plate on a shaded patio, or discovering fruit-forward dessert wines made from berries grown just steps away. Between tastings, couples can wander nearby towns for boutique shopping, art galleries, and locally loved dining spots.
This region is especially appealing for romantic getaways in Virginia because of its balance. Outdoor views and quiet moments pair easily with engaging conversation, making it just as enjoyable to relax with a glass of wine as it is to explore the next stop on your list. Scenic overlooks and light hiking trails offer natural pauses between vineyard visits, keeping your itinerary diverse and fun.
Wine Country Virginia Hotels for Couples
Where you stay matters just as much as where you taste. Wine Country Virginia Hotels offer an intimate alternative to larger accommodations, with settings that reflect the surrounding landscape and a focus on thoughtful hospitality. Many are designed for two, making them ideal for weekend getaways in VA for couples seeking privacy and ease. After a day of tasting, returning to a quiet property with welcoming common spaces, comfortable rooms, and hosts who know the area well helps complete the experience.
Mornings tend to be relaxed, with time to enjoy a fresh breakfast and plan another day of vineyard hopping or simply staying put and enjoying the grounds. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, Virginia getaways centered around wine country create the kind of shared memories couples love revisiting long after the weekend ends.
Our Favorite Frankenmuth Attractions
Things to Do in Frankenmuth for a Weekend Getaway
If you are mapping out things to do in Frankenmuth, this small Bavarian-style town is one of Michigan’s most visited destinations. Frankenmuth, Michigan, things to do range from a famous chicken dinner to a stroll along the Cass River, and the town packs in more shopping, dining, and seasonal attractions than its size would suggest. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway for two or a day trip, Frankenmuth is a great destination.
If you would rather skip the crowds of a big Frankenmuth hotel, Bay City makes an ideal home base. It sits about 25 minutes away and offers a walkable downtown and a scenic riverfront, without the tourist traffic. It is a fitting complement to a day spent seeing what to do in Frankenmuth.
Explore Downtown Frankenmuth Shopping and Attractions
Start your day in downtown Frankenmuth, where storefronts with old-world charm line the streets. Plan to spend at least two hours here. Frankenmuth shopping means specialty boutiques selling everything from cheese to handmade goods. For a fun way to see it all, hop on the Golden Ticket Trolley to learn about the town’s history and find a few hidden gems along the way. Among the most popular Frankenmuth attractions for couples is a carriage ride followed by a tasting at St. Julian Winery.
Cruise the Cass River on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat
For a change of pace, the Bavarian Belle Riverboat offers a short cruise along the Cass River. It is a relaxed way to see the town from the water, and it fits naturally into a slower afternoon between shopping stops.
Visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland
No visit to Frankenmuth is complete without a stop at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, open year-round. About 100,000 lights illuminate Bronner’s Christmas Lane from dawn to midnight every night. Do not miss the replica of the Silent Night Chapel, a quiet spot on the grounds honoring the history behind the well-known Christmas hymn. Bronner’s also devotes entire aisles to ornaments that can be personalized on-site, making it one of the more distinctive Frankenmuth activities even in the height of summer.
Make Historic Webster House Your Bay City Home Base
When it is time to rest after a day of shopping and sightseeing, Historic Webster House offers a quiet, elegant alternative to a chain hotel near Frankenmuth. This Bed and Breakfast in Bay City puts you close enough for an easy day trip, while giving you a historic home to return to each evening. Between gourmet breakfasts, a private spa room, and hospitality you will not find at a hotel, they have become a favorite for couples planning a weekend getaway in Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Frankenmuth besides shopping?
Beyond downtown shopping, popular things to do in Frankenmuth include Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, a Bavarian Belle Riverboat cruise, a carriage ride and wine tasting at St. Julian Winery, and a family-style chicken dinner at Bavarian Inn or Zehnder’s.
How far is Frankenmuth from Bay City?
Frankenmuth sits about 25 minutes from Bay City, making it an easy day trip for guests staying at Historic Webster House.
What is Frankenmuth Michigan known for?
Frankenmuth is best known for its Bavarian-style architecture, its family-style chicken dinners, and Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.
Is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland open year round?
Yes, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is open year round and lit with roughly 100,000 lights every evening.
Oyster & Crab Along the Most Delicious Trail in Maryland
Discover the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail on the Eastern Shore
The Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail offers one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Chesapeake Bay, combining fresh seafood, waterfront communities, and local traditions that have shaped the region for generations. Stretching across Maryland’s coastal towns and historic ports, the trail connects visitors with seafood houses, oyster farms, local markets, and dockside restaurants where Maryland crab and Maryland oysters remain at the heart of the experience.
Along the route, travelers can enjoy everything from classic Chesapeake Bay crab feasts to freshly shucked oysters harvested from local waters. Many stops feature seasonal menus highlighting crab cakes packed with lump meat, oyster flights, creamy crab soup, and other regional favorites. During the cooler months, visitors often seek out the best oysters in Maryland, while Maryland crab specialties remain a staple throughout much of the year.
One unique feature of the trail is Maryland’s Best True Blue program. Participating restaurants and seafood markets display the True Blue designation, helping visitors identify businesses that serve authentic, locally harvested Maryland crab products. Choosing these establishments supports local watermen while providing a genuine taste of the Chesapeake Bay.
Popular True Blue destinations include Chester River Seafood in Rock Hall, J.M. Clayton in Cambridge, The Crab Place in Crisfield, Jimmy Cantler’s Riverside Inn in Annapolis, and several other respected seafood destinations throughout the state.
Beyond the culinary experience, the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail introduces visitors to many of the most popular things to do on the Eastern Shore. Spend time exploring Rock Hall MD, stroll along waterfront streets, browse local shops and galleries, or enjoy sailing excursions on the Chesapeake Bay. Outdoor enthusiasts can kayak through scenic waterways, go fishing, watch migratory birds, or cycle along quiet coastal roads. Summer is an especially popular season for couples seeking a memorable coastal getaway.
Stay at a Premier Bed and Breakfast in Maryland
After a day of exploring the Maryland Crab and Oyster Trail, retreat to a peaceful waterfront escape on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Situated on more than 70 acres along the Chesapeake Bay, our Bed and Breakfast in Maryland provides an inviting setting for couples looking to relax and reconnect.
Guests can choose from elegant rooms in the historic manor house, private cottages offering additional privacy, or the InnTowne House in downtown Rock Hall. Each morning begins with a complimentary country breakfast featuring fresh ingredients, gourmet coffee, seasonal fruit, and premium breakfast selections. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the saltwater pool, enjoying complimentary wine or beer, or simply taking in the beauty of Maryland’s coast. Whether planning a romantic summer getaway or a culinary adventure, our inn places guests close to the best experiences the Eastern Shore has to offer.
Places to Eat on a Romantic Getaway in Kentucky
Best Bardstown Restaurants
Bardstown has become one of the best dining destinations in Kentucky, especially for visitors exploring nearby Kentucky Bourbon distilleries. While the Bourbon Trail may introduce visitors to the region, the growing Bardstown restaurant scene often becomes one of the most memorable parts of the trip. From historic taverns and polished bourbon bars to casual breweries and nostalgic diners, there are countless places to eat in Bardstown that complement a romantic getaway Kentucky experience.
As one of the oldest towns in the state, Bardstown Kentucky offers more than bourbon tastings and scenic drives. Walkable streets, historic attractions, and welcoming local businesses create a setting where couples can slow down and enjoy a weekend focused on great food and conversation.
Among the standout restaurants in Bardstown, Toogie’s Table continues to impress guests with elevated comfort food in a warm, inviting atmosphere near My Old Kentucky Home State Park. The Rickhouse Restaurant is another favorite for couples, pairing creative cocktails with a strong bourbon selection and an intimate dining room ideal for date nights.
Visitors searching for unique things to do in Bardstown often reserve an evening aboard the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train, where scenic views and a carefully prepared meal create a memorable experience. The Bar at Willett Distillery has also become a destination of its own, attracting visitors with cocktail-focused dining and its well-known egg salad sandwich.
Kitchen & Bar at Bardstown Bourbon Company offers a modern approach to bourbon-inspired cuisine, while Scout & Scholar Brewing Co. provides a more relaxed atmosphere with craft beer and approachable dishes. For guests interested in history, Old Talbott Tavern is one of the oldest tavern settings in the country offering classic Kentucky charm.
Romantic Getaways on the Bourbon Trail
After exploring the best Bardstown restaurant options, retreat to a peaceful Bed and Breakfast in Kentucky just outside the bustle of downtown. Maple Hill Manor provides a romantic getaway Kentucky near Bardstown, making it easy to experience the region’s dining scene while enjoying a quieter countryside stay. Guests can personalize their visit with thoughtful extras like picnic baskets or chocolate-dipped strawberries before relaxing in one of the property’s historic guest rooms. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer bourbon-focused vacation, the Bardstown Kentucky area offers an ideal getaway with excellent dining, fascinating history, and warm hospitality.