Outdoor Adventures
Birding Spots Along the Florida Coast Near St. Augustine
Discover Spring Birding on the Great Florida Birding Trail
Spring is prime time to explore the Great Florida Birding Trail near St. Augustine, where coastal wetlands, maritime forests, and tidal creeks create reliable habitat for both resident birds and seasonal migrants. This stretch of Florida’s coast is well-suited to an adventure-focused itinerary because you can cover multiple environments in a single day without long drives, then return to town for dinner, history, and an easy evening.
Start with Anastasia State Park, one of the top things to do in St. Augustine. This park is a productive mix of beach, tidal marsh, and maritime hammock, and a worthwhile stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. The shoreline and salt marsh boardwalk are strong choices for wading birds, terns, skimmers, and migratory shorebirds, especially when you time your visit around lower tides. Continue south to Fort Matanzas National Monument, another fabulous stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail, where estuarine edges and wooded trails can add rails, ibises, and raptors to your list, plus a short ferry ride that makes the outing feel like part nature excursion, part local history.
For open-coast scanning, Ponte Vedra Beach offers classic surf-zone birding with shorebirds along the tide line and pelicans cruising just above the water. If you want a quieter, more secluded stop, head to Pellicer Creek Conservation Area, where freshwater wetlands and shaded hammocks support a different mix of species and a calmer pace, including productive paddling opportunities when conditions cooperate.
The GTM Reserve is another must as you travel along the Great Florida Birding Trail, with broad estuary views and mudflats that reward patience, especially during migration. Round out the day with a change of scenery at Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, where formal gardens meet a distinctive coquina shoreline, and bird activity often pairs well with spring blooms.
Stay Close to the Trail at A Downtown St. Augustine Hotel
After your time on the Great Florida Birding Trail, base your stay at St. Francis Inn, steps from historic downtown St. Augustine. Begin mornings at our St. Augustine Hotel with a gourmet buffet breakfast before heading out with binoculars and a field guide. Return for a complimentary social hour with wine, beer, and light snacks, then wind down with courtyard s’mores and evening desserts packaged for you.
With guest rooms, suites, and private cottages, plus thoughtful touches like fresh flowers and sherry in every room and a heated pool for recharging between outings, it is a practical, comfortable home base for spring birding on Florida’s coast. Book directly to plan your next adventure.
Birdwatching at the Tobico Marsh Nature Area
Best Tobico Marsh for Michigan Birdwatching
Tobico Marsh stands out as one of the best birding spots in Michigan, especially for those interested in Michigan bird migration along the Lake Huron shoreline. As one of the largest freshwater marshes on the lake, this nature preserve creates an ideal stopover for hundreds of species traveling major migratory routes. Warblers, herons, egrets, waterfowl, and raptors move through in impressive numbers, making birding in Michigan both dynamic and rewarding.
Located at the north end of Bay City State Park, Tobico Marsh blends open water, dense wetland grasses, and forest edge habitat. This diversity attracts both common migrants and sought-after species such as the ruddy duck and the yellow-headed blackbird. Elevated boardwalks allow visitors to walk deep into the wetlands while protecting sensitive habitat, and observation towers provide wide views across the lagoon and surrounding marsh. Early mornings are especially active, with bird calls echoing as mist lifts off the water.
Beyond Tobico, the Bay County Birding Trail expands the adventure. Discovery Preserve, Middlegrounds Island, Quanicassee State Wildlife Area, Pinconning County Park, and Nayanquing Point are all within easy reach. Together, they solidify this region as a leader in Michigan birdwatching. Pairing time outdoors with other things to do in Bay City, including riverfront strolls, local shops, and museums, creates a well-rounded Midwest adventure getaway.
Stay at a Historic Bed and Breakfast in Michigan
After a full day at Tobico Marsh, the Historic Webster House offers a refined place to unwind. This Bed and Breakfast in Michigan is a lovely mix of historic architecture with modern comfort. Guests appreciate the private spa room, ideal for relaxing after long walks on marsh trails. With thoughtful hospitality and a convenient location near downtown Bay City and Frankenmuth, this B&B provides one of the best places to stay in Michigan for birding enthusiasts. Reserve your room and turn your Michigan birdwatching adventure into a memorable escape.
Book Your Tour with UnCruise Adventures
Best UnCruise Adventures for Getaway to Alaska
Those looking to experience Alaska beyond the typical cruise route will find that UnCruise Adventures offers a refreshingly hands-on way to explore the Last Frontier. Specializing in small ship cruises, UnCruise Adventures operates itineraries designed to bring guests closer to Alaska’s dramatic landscapes, wildlife-filled waterways, and lesser-visited coastal areas. Many sailings operate round-trip from Juneau, making it easy to combine time on the water with time exploring Alaska’s capital city.
Unlike large Alaska cruise lines, UnCruise Adventures uses small boat cruises that carry a limited number of guests. This allows for flexible routing, daily adventure-focused excursions, and spontaneous wildlife viewing opportunities. One day might include kayaking near tidewater glaciers, followed by guided hikes through Tongass National Forest or skiff rides through protected coves. With expert guides and onboard naturalists, guests gain a deeper understanding of Alaska’s ecosystems.
Life onboard an UnCruise Alaska vessel is relaxed and social. Ships typically feature between 18 and 42 cabins, creating an atmosphere where guests quickly feel connected to fellow travelers and crew. Daily briefings outline upcoming Alaska excursions, allowing guests to choose activities that match their interests and energy levels. Meals are included and focus on fresh, regional flavors, adding value to what many consider affordable small ship cruises.
Where to Stay Before or After Your UnCruise Adventure
Spending time in Juneau before or after your sailing enhances the experience. Alaska Capital Inn, one of the most welcoming small hotels in Juneau, offers a comfortable home base with knowledgeable local innkeepers. Staying here provides helpful insight into things to do in Juneau, assistance with tour bookings, and easy logistics around cruise departures. Guests enjoy cozy rooms, a family-style breakfast, and social hours that make settling into Alaska feel effortless.
Popular itineraries with UnCruise Adventures include wildlife-focused Glacier Bay sailings, adventure-driven Alaska excursions, and adults-only options ideal for couples seeking a more immersive experience. If your goal is an adventure getaway that prioritizes exploration over entertainment, UnCruise Adventures delivers a truly engaging way to see Alaska.
Chase Waterfalls in the Columbia River Gorge This Spring
Best Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls for Adventure
Few day trips deliver drama like the Columbia River Gorge Waterfalls, where cliffside cascades, mossy canyons, and misty viewpoints appear one after another. If you want an adventure that mixes iconic stops with satisfying trail time, the Gorge is the kind of place that rewards both early starts and curious detours, all within easy reach of Portland.
Start with Multnomah Falls, the headline act for a reason. The two-tier drop is massive, the views are immediate, and the walk to Benson Bridge gives you that cool spray and wide-angle photo moment. For a more immersive route, build your day around the Multnomah area trail network, where forest paths connect viewpoints and smaller cascades.
Next, add Wahkeena Falls for a different texture of water; it doesn’t just plunge, it tumbles and fans through lush rock and greenery. It’s a favorite for hikers who want a bit more quiet without giving up that classic Gorge atmosphere. Keep your momentum going with a stop at Latourell Falls, a striking single-drop waterfall framed by basalt columns and vivid lichen, with both an easy lower viewpoint and a loop trail for more exploring.
Where to Stay After Your Waterfall Day
For a Washington-side escape, Panther Creek Falls is a standout, especially if you want big payoff with minimal effort. The short trail brings you to a powerful, multi-tier cascade, making it one of the easiest ways to add a “hidden gem” moment to your itinerary. If you have time for a longer outing, Falls Creek Falls turns the day into a true adventure, with a moderate loop, steady forest scenery, and a memorable suspension bridge before the final viewpoint.
Round out your itinerary with Lower Lewis Falls, an impressive, wide cascade that feels bold and raw, with an easy approach that makes it simple to fit into a full weekend of exploring. Beyond the waterfalls, there are plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, including scenic hikes, viewpoints, wineries, and restaurants. Make it more than a day trip, pair your waterfall chase with a cozy cabin stay at Carson Ridge Cabins, the leading cabins in the Columbia River Gorge.
Chasing Waterfalls at Triple Falls in Western North Carolina
Triple Falls North Carolina Hike for Adventure
Triple Falls is one of the signature stops in Dupont State Recreational Forest, and it rewards anyone willing to put a little effort into the climb. In fact, this waterfall-rich park is one of the top things to do in Western North Carolina. From Saluda, Triple Falls is an easy day trip that pairs well with small-town time on Main Street, then a focused outing in the woods where the sound of rushing water does the talking. If you are planning an adventure getaway in the mountains, Triple Falls North Carolina belongs at the top of your list.
Most visitors begin at the High Falls Access Area, where the Triple Falls Trail leads into a hardwood forest and gradually gains elevation. Routes vary, but the walk to the viewing area is typically a little over a mile round trip, and the final approach includes stairs to an overlook. Once you reach the falls, you will see why Triple Falls NC is so frequently photographed. The water drops in three tiers across a broad rock face, and the viewpoints give you options for different angles and compositions. Bring a snack, take your time, and plan to linger.
Because Triple Falls sits within a network of well-known cascades, it is easy to build a fuller day of waterfalls in North Carolina without adding extra driving. High Falls is close by and makes a natural pairing, with a wider trail and a powerful span of water across the Little River. Hooker Falls is one of the most accessible stops in Dupont forest, with a short, mostly flat walk and calmer sections where swimming and wading are allowed.
A Boutique Hotel Near Dupont State Recreational Forest
After a day on the trails, return to Saluda for a comfortable base that supports both activity and recovery. When you stay at our boutique hotel in Western North Carolina, you can choose from well-appointed rooms, spacious suites, and private cottages, with gas fireplaces in every suite and cottage. Many accommodations also include jetted tubs, which are a welcome addition after hiking in North Carolina. On-site amenities like a spa and sauna make it easy to reset before dinner.
If you want to extend the adventure, consider adding Bridal Veil Falls, Grassy Creek Falls, or Wintergreen Falls to your plan, depending on your time and hiking comfort. With Triple Falls Trail as the centerpiece and additional Asheville hikes within reach, Saluda keeps your itinerary flexible, focused, and satisfying.
Coffee Mill Ski Area for the Best Winter Getaway in Minnesota
Best Coffee Mill Ski Area Winter Getaway in Minnesota
Winter in Minnesota is the perfect season for outdoor adventure, scenic drives, and cozy escapes, and Coffee Mill Ski Area is a favorite destination for travelers looking to enjoy classic Midwest skiing without the crowds. Located in Wabasha, this approachable ski area offers beautiful surroundings and reliable conditions, making it a great choice for both casual skiers and those planning a full winter getaway.
Coffee Mill Ski Area features groomed runs, scenic views of the Mississippi River Valley, and terrain that welcomes beginners while still appealing to experienced skiers. Its bowl-style layout helps protect slopes from winter winds, allowing for comfortable days on the mountain. Many visitors enjoy pairing a ski day with other things to do in Wabasha, MN.
Beyond skiing, Wabasha offers memorable winter experiences. Visitors can explore historic Main Street, attend seasonal events like the Grumpy Old Men Festival, or visit the National Eagle Center, one of the top attractions along the Mississippi River. Ice fishing on Lake Pepin and winter wildlife viewing are also popular when conditions allow.
Relax and Recharge at a Red Wing Bed and Breakfast
Staying nearby enhances the experience, and a Red Wing Bed and Breakfast offers a peaceful alternative to crowded ski resorts. Located about 30 minutes from Coffee Mill Ski Resort, Round Barn Farm provides a comfortable home base for winter in Minnesota, especially for couples, solo travelers, and friends planning a seasonal escape.
After a day on the slopes, guests appreciate returning to warm common spaces, quiet evenings, and thoughtful amenities designed for cold-weather comfort. Hearty breakfasts start ski days on the right note, while oversized soaking tubs and cozy guest rooms make it easy to unwind. Many travelers enjoy relaxing by the fire, sharing a bottle of wine, or simply slowing down after time outdoors.
For travelers exploring Minnesota ski resorts, Coffee Mill Ski Area delivers a relaxed pace, scenic setting, and easy access to regional attractions. Pairing a ski-focused itinerary with a stay at a Red Wing Bed and Breakfast creates a winter getaway that balances adventure with comfort, making it easy to enjoy everything the season has to offer.
Crabtree Falls, VA is One of the Best Waterfalls in Virginia
Crabtree Falls VA: A Weekend Waterfall Hike Worth Planning
Crabtree Falls VA is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Virginia and a must for anyone exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway or Shenandoah Valley. Often described as the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River, the falls drop nearly 1,200 feet in a series of dramatic tiers. Instead of a single plunge, the water tumbles down the mountainside across five major cascades, which means the Crabtree Falls hike delivers multiple viewpoints and photo-worthy moments from start to finish.
The Crabtree trailhead is easy to access just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, and the hike is well-suited for a weekend itinerary in the Shenandoah Valley. The full route is about 2.5 miles round trip, with some steep and rocky sections as you climb. If you want a shorter option, the first overlook is only about 700 feet from the trailhead. That initial stretch is paved and gently sloped, so it works well for visitors who want a great view without committing to the entire climb.
Spring is a particularly rewarding time to visit Crabtree Falls Virginia. Snowmelt boosts water flow, and the trail feels cooler and greener as the forest wakes up. Along the route, you will find a series of overlooks where you can pause, reset, and take in the sound and scale of the cascades. At the top, a footbridge provides a close-up look at the upper falls and one of the classic viewpoints on the trail.
Many couples turn this hike into a slow-paced day by bringing a picnic and lingering at the overlooks. For an easy option, consider a Crabtree Falls Picnic that includes a trail map, suggested picnic spots, and a packed lunch for two with sandwich choices, homemade sides, fruit, cookies, chips, and bottled water. Of course, this is just the start of what’s waiting for you here; there’s a nearly endless list of things to do in the Shenandoah Valley!
Romantic Cabins in Virginia for Your Weekend Base
After a day of waterfall hiking, come back to an elevated, comfortable place to unwind. Our romantic cabins in Virginia are designed for connection, with refined interiors, private porches, and thoughtful amenities that make it easy to slow down. Use your cabin as a home base for more Virginia waterfalls, scenic drives, and small-town exploring, then book direct when you are ready to lock in your weekend plans.
Discover the Beauty of the Watkins Glen Waterfalls
Best Watkins Glen Waterfalls in the Finger Lakes
Watkins Glen waterfalls are one of the most exciting natural attractions in the Finger Lakes, drawing visitors from all over the country eager to explore dramatic gorges, flowing water, and carved stone pathways. Located within Watkins Glen State Park, these waterfalls create an immersive outdoor experience that feels both adventurous and rewarding. For those building an itinerary around active exploration, this park easily ranks among the top things to do in the Finger Lakes.
The Gorge Trail is the highlight of any visit. Stretching roughly 1.5 miles, this trail winds past 19 distinct Watkins Glen waterfalls, each with its own character. Stone staircases climb beside rushing water, tunnels cut through rock, and overlooks reveal sweeping views of the gorge below. Late spring through early fall offers ideal conditions, with steady water flow and comfortable temperatures for hiking.
Among the most memorable stops along the trail are Rainbow Falls, where mist often creates colorful arcs in the sunlight, and Cavern Cascade, which allows hikers to walk directly behind the falling water. Central Cascade, one of the tallest waterfalls in the park, adds to the sense of scale and movement throughout the gorge. The Spiral Tunnel and Suspension Bridge offer elevated viewpoints and photo-worthy perspectives of the waterfalls in the Finger Lakes.
Adventure-Friendly Lodging Near Watkins Glen State Park
After a full day on the Gorge Trail, staying nearby makes the adventure even better. Choosing a boutique hotel close to Watkins Glen State Park allows guests to start early, avoid crowds, and return easily for rest and relaxation. Comfortable guest rooms, on-site spa amenities, and thoughtful hospitality create a welcome balance between activity and recovery.
As one of the most romantic Boutique Hotels in the Finger Lakes, couples enjoy spending time out exploring as much as they do in the privacy of their own guest room. Our property offers lovely indoor and outdoor spaces to relax, and we’ll take care of breakfast each morning of your stay!
Whether you are hiking beneath waterfalls, climbing stone staircases, or exploring one of the Finger Lakes’ most iconic parks, Watkins Glen waterfalls deliver an unforgettable adventure-focused experience in Upstate New York.
Discover the Beauty of Willow River State Park in Wisconsin
Best Things to Do in Willow River State Park in Spring
Spring is one of the most exciting times to experience Willow River State Park in the Midwest. As the snow melts and the river swells, Willow Falls transforms into one of the most powerful and unforgettable waterfalls in Wisconsin. The layered rock formations and rushing water create a dramatic scene that draws outdoor lovers from across the region.
Beyond Willow Falls, Willow River State Park offers more than 13 miles of scenic trails, making it a true spring adventure destination. The Willow River State Park Trails wind through woodlands, along bluffs, and past peaceful overlooks. The Hidden Ponds Nature Trail is accessible and welcoming to all visitors, while other paths provide rewarding elevation and views of the 200-foot Willow River Gorge.
Spring is also ideal for fishing in the Willow River, where anglers can find panfish, bass, and trout upstream of the dam. Little Falls Lake opens opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and shoreline picnics before the busy summer season begins. Birdwatchers will appreciate the activity across this beautiful stretch of Wisconsin State Parks, as migratory species return and native wildlife becomes more active. There are so many fantastic things to do in Wisconsin on your next visit.
Stay Near Willow River State Park
After a full day outdoors, unwinding at one of the nearby Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts is always a treat. These locally owned properties offer a personalized alternative to standard lodging, with thoughtful hospitality and inviting spaces designed for relaxation. Staying at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast places you close to the best things to do in Hudson, WI, including St. Croix River cruises, historic downtown shopping, and exceptional dining.
Willow River State Park is easily one of the most memorable State Parks in Wisconsin, and spring gives you the perfect window to experience it at its peak. Plan your adventure now, explore the trails, stand beside Willow Falls, and book your stay near Hudson for a getaway that blends outdoor excitement with refined comfort.