Seasonal Guides
Explore these Madison Lakes this Summer in Wisconsin
Best Madison Lakes Near Downtown for Summer Fun
Exploring Madison Lakes during the summer is one of the most engaging ways to experience the city. Surrounded by water, Madison offers immediate access to lake activities that range from relaxed cruising to full-day boating adventures. Whether you are searching for things to do in Madison, WI, or planning a seasonal escape, time spent on the lakes adds both variety and energy to your itinerary.
Lake Mendota and Lake Monona are the most prominent lakes in Madison, WI, both located within minutes of downtown. Lake Mendota, the largest of the Madison Lakes, provides expansive water for sailing, fishing, and high-speed boating. Its shoreline stretches past parks, residential areas, and the University of Wisconsin campus, offering changing views throughout the day. Launch points such as Marshall Park and Tenney Park make access straightforward, and boat rental services in Madison, WI, allow visitors to get on the water without bringing their own equipment.
Pontoon boating is a popular way to spend a summer afternoon on Lake Mendota. The lake’s size and steady conditions support extended cruising, whether you anchor near Picnic Point or move along the shoreline. Fishing is another key draw, with opportunities to catch walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass, especially in the early morning hours.
Lake Monona, located just south of downtown, offers a more central and active atmosphere. With direct views of the Madison skyline and the Wisconsin State Capitol, it is one of the most visually distinctive lakes in the area. Law Park and Olin Park provide easy entry points, while a mix of motorboats, kayaks, and paddleboards keeps the lake active throughout the day. Unique experiences such as group boating excursions and lakeside cycling routes add to the variety of things to do in Madison, WI.
Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast in Downtown Madison
Staying at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast enhances your summer visit by pairing lake access with a comfortable retreat. Located in a historic neighborhood close to both Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, this style of lodging makes it easy to transition between outdoor activities and relaxation. After a day of boating or exploring lakefront parks, enjoying dinner at one of the best restaurants in Madison, and returning to a well-appointed guest room provides a welcome reset. With a limited number of rooms, guests can expect a quieter environment, along with thoughtful amenities and hospitality.
Explore these Oregon Beaches this Summer on the Coast
The Best Oregon Beaches for Summer Adventure
Oregon beaches offer one of the most distinctive coastal experiences in the country, especially in the summer, with long, sunny days and perfect temperatures. Along the Southern Oregon Coast, wide stretches of sand, dramatic sea stacks, and open shoreline create the ideal setting for a beach-focused adventure. For travelers seeking memorable things to do on the Oregon Coast, this region provides both scenic beauty and easy access to a variety of outdoor experiences.
Bandon stands out among Oregon Coast beaches as a central hub for exploring the area. Known for its striking rock formations and expansive shoreline, the town offers access to some of Oregon’s best beaches. Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint offers a well-known vantage point where sea stacks rise just offshore, while nearby Bandon Beach invites long walks, photography, and tidepool exploration. At low tide, visitors can observe marine life such as sea stars and anemones among the rocks.
Outdoor activities extend beyond the sand. Visitors often enjoy beachcombing for shells and agates, cycling along coastal routes, or exploring nearby estuaries by kayak. Wildlife viewing is also common, with seabirds and marine life visible from various coastal viewpoints.
Evenings in Bandon bring a different pace. Old Town offers shops, galleries, and waterfront dining, allowing visitors to unwind after a day of exploration. The combination of outdoor activity and small-town atmosphere makes this area one of the most appealing destinations on the Oregon Coast.
Stay at a Pet-Friendly Hotel in Bandon Oregon
Choosing pet-friendly hotels in Bandon, Oregon, makes it easier to enjoy a flexible trip. With direct access to the shoreline, guests can begin the day with a beach walk and continue exploring nearby Southern Oregon beaches. Staying close to the coast allows more time to experience the variety of beaches in Oregon. The road trip from Portland to Bandon is a beautiful drive!
Several nearby locations add depth to any coastal itinerary. Coquille Point Beach provides an educational experience with interpretive signs and accessible tidepools. Bullards Beach State Park offers miles of open shoreline, ideal for walking, beach games, and picnics. For a quieter setting, Seven Devils State Recreation Site and Merchants Beach offer less-crowded alternatives with equally scenic views. Start planning your summer getaways today!
Explore These Top Things to Do in Traverse City in Winter
Best Things to Do in Traverse City in the Winter
Traverse City, Michigan proves that winter travel can be just as rewarding as peak summer season, especially for a refreshing Midwest weekend getaway. When snow blankets the shoreline of Grand Traverse Bay, the region transforms into a destination filled with outdoor adventure, cozy indulgences, and memorable seasonal experiences. From scenic landscapes to chef-driven dining, there are plenty of things to do in Traverse City in the winter for travelers who enjoy both activity and relaxation.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of winter activities in Michigan. Skiing and snowboarding at Crystal Mountain offer well-maintained runs for all skill levels, while snowshoeing through wooded trails at the Village at Grand Traverse Commons provides a quieter way to explore the area. Fat tire biking remains a favorite for adventurous travelers who want to experience Traverse City’s trail systems year-round. For iconic scenery, a winter visit to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore delivers sweeping lake views and peaceful hiking opportunities without the crowds.
Winter in Traverse City also invites visitors to slow down and savor the region’s food and wine scene. Wine tasting on the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas remains one of the most popular things to do in Traverse City, with snow-dusted vineyards setting a dramatic backdrop. Downtown, Front Street stays lively with boutiques, bookstores, breweries, and inviting restaurants perfect for warming up after a day outdoors.
Where to Stay for a Cozy Traverse City Winter Getaway
Choosing the right lodging can elevate your winter getaway in Michigan. Local bed and breakfasts in Michigan offer a welcoming alternative to traditional hotels, with personalized service, thoughtful amenities, and insider recommendations that enhance your stay. Many feature fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and inviting common spaces that feel especially comforting after a cold day outside. Mornings often begin with freshly prepared breakfasts that highlight regional flavors and set a relaxed tone for the day ahead.
As evening settles in, few experiences rival watching the sun dip below Grand Traverse Bay, painting the winter sky with vibrant color. Whether you are planning a romantic escape or a laid-back weekend trip, Traverse City delivers a winter experience that feels both energizing and restorative. With so many fun things to do in Michigan during the colder months, this northern destination stands out as a favorite for seasonal travel.
Fall in South Bend: A Seasonal Guide to Autumn
The Best Things to Do in South Bend this Fall
South Bend transforms in autumn. The maples along the St. Joseph River turn gold and crimson, Notre Dame’s historic campus fills with visitors and football fans, and the air carries a crisp bite that makes an afternoon walk feel less like exercise and more like a reason to get outside. If you’re planning a fall trip or looking for things to do in South Bend, the options span everything from campus landmarks to museums, outdoor trails, and entertainment downtown—all within reach of a comfortable home base.
Notre Dame’s Campus and Fall Color
No list of things to do in South Bend is complete without the University of Notre Dame. The campus is among the country’s most photographed, and autumn is arguably its best season. Start at the Golden Dome and Main Quad, where tree-lined walks turn brilliant shades of orange and red by mid-October. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is open to visitors year-round, with Gothic Revival stained glass that catches the autumn light in striking ways. The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, a candlelit replica of the famous French sanctuary tucked beside the lake, offers a quiet moment away from crowds. If you can secure tickets, a Notre Dame home football game is an experience unto itself—tailgates, marching band warmups, and 80,000 fans create an energy that defines fall on campus.
Local Museums and History
Fall’s shorter daylight hours make indoor exploration appealing. The Studebaker National Museum houses one of the Midwest’s finest classic-car collections, tracing the Studebaker company’s rise from wagon maker to automaker. It’s a standout for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The History Museum, located along the river, covers regional heritage and includes the beautifully restored Copshaholm mansion and gardens. The South Bend Chocolate Company Factory Tour is a gentler, family-friendly stop where you can watch chocolate being made and taste the results.
Outdoor Activities Before Winter
South Bend activities expand when you venture beyond campus. St. Patrick’s County Park, a short drive from downtown, offers miles of wooded trails along the St. Joseph River, with fall foliage at its peak. Potawatomi Park’s rose gardens and walking paths are especially scenic once leaves turn. If you golf, the ND Warren Golf Course—the University’s championship course—opens public tee times in fall.
Downtown Entertainment
Once the sun sets earlier, downtown South Bend comes alive. The Morris Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored 1922 theater, hosts touring Broadway shows, concerts, and comedy through fall. South Bend Civic Theatre runs its fall season with a mix of classics and newer productions. East Bank Village and the downtown riverfront are walkable, with shops, cafes, and restaurants along the East Race. The Four Winds Casino offers gaming and dining if you want a change of pace.
Seasonal Food and Drink
South Bend’s craft beer scene has expanded substantially, with breweries releasing seasonal fall offerings, including pumpkin ales and Oktoberfest-style lagers. The South Bend Farmers Market runs into the fall, featuring local produce and baked goods. An independent coffee shop or a cup of fresh-pressed cider from a nearby orchard pairs perfectly with a crisp fall day.
Boutique Hotels in South Bend, Indiana
Fall weekends, especially those surrounding Notre Dame home games, fill hotels quickly. Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of the Morris Performing Arts Center, riverfront district, and restaurants. With so many things to do in South Bend, Indiana, you’ll want comfortable, thoughtfully designed lodging.
The Brickhaven Inn, a newly renovated boutique hotel in South Bend‘s West Washington Historic District, offers six thoughtfully appointed guest rooms with luxury linens, contemporary interiors, and a chef-selected three-course breakfast each morning. Located steps from downtown attractions and minutes from Notre Dame, Brickhaven is the ideal base for a fall getaway.
Fantastic Things to Do in Madison, WI, this Winter
Best Things to Do in Madison, WI During Winter
Winter brings out a different side of Madison; frosted in snow, the city feels easier to explore without summer crowds. With frozen lakes surrounding the city and neighborhoods near the Capitol taking on a quieter rhythm, winter is an ideal time to explore the best things to do in Madison for a memorable getaway.
Seasonal events in Madison are a big draw in Wisconsin during winter. The Frozen Assets Festival, held on Lake Mendota, combines outdoor fun with a playful spirit, featuring an on-ice 5K, pond hockey, curling demonstrations, kite flying, and skating. The Wisconsin Union’s Winter Carnival adds another layer of energy with snow sports, fireworks over the lake, and family-friendly activities. Later in the season, nearby Middleton hosts Bockfest, a popular celebration centered on local beer and winter traditions.
Beyond festivals, Madison’s extensive trail system remains active year-round. Winter transforms familiar routes like the Lakeshore Path, sections of the Capital City State Trail, and the UW Arboretum into peaceful places for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or bundled-up walks. These outdoor options complement Madison’s strong lineup of indoor attractions.
Cold weather is the perfect excuse to explore what to do in Madison, WI, indoors. Museums like the Chazen Museum of Art offer free admission and rotating exhibits, while the University of Wisconsin campus provides lectures, performances, and galleries open to the public. Dining also shines in winter, with restaurants leaning into comforting seasonal menus and craft cocktails, many of which are located within easy walking distance of downtown.
A Cozy Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Madison, WI
Choosing a Bed and Breakfast in Madison, WI, that visitors trust adds warmth to a winter escape. The Buckingham Inn offers a welcoming home base just minutes from downtown, set in a charming residential neighborhood with easy access to Madison events and attractions. After a day exploring places to go in Wisconsin during winter, returning to comfortable common spaces and a peaceful guest suite makes the experience feel complete.
Winter mornings begin with a homemade breakfast before heading out to explore more of Madison’s seasonal charm. Whether visiting for a weekend or a midweek getaway, winter in Wisconsin reveals a version of Madison that feels personal, inviting, and worth exploring time and again.
Find the Best Winter Weekend Getaway in the Midwest
Best Weekend Getaway in the Midwest This Winter
Winter is the perfect season to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy a change of scenery, and there is no better place to do that than Galena, Illinois. If you are searching for the best weekend getaway in the Midwest, this historic town delivers a memorable mix of seasonal charm, outdoor experiences, and elevated comfort that feels special from the moment you arrive.
Galena shines during winter. Snow-dusted hills set the backdrop for outdoor adventures like skiing and snowboarding at Chestnut Mountain Resort, winter hiking through local preserves, and scenic views along the Mississippi River where bald eagles migrate in the colder months. Downtown Galena remains lively year-round, with independent boutiques, cozy wine tasting rooms, and restaurants perfect for lingering dinners after a full day of exploring. Winter also brings a festive feel to Main Street, making every stroll feel intentional and inviting.
Of course, the best weekend getaway in the Midwest is not only about what you do during the day, but it is also about where you stay. After a day spent enjoying all the best things to do in Galena, IL, this winter, returning to a space that feels indulgent and unrushed makes all the difference.
A Luxury Galena Bed and Breakfast Experience
Jail Hill Inn offers a refined take on the classic Galena Bed and Breakfast. Each morning begins with a gourmet, multi-course breakfast featuring freshly roasted coffee, house-made pastries, fruit, and a rotating main dish, all prepared to start your day on the right note. Guests can enjoy breakfast in the dining room or opt for in-suite service at no additional charge.
In the afternoon, unwind with a private wine and appetizer experience delivered directly to your suite. Thoughtfully prepared charcuterie, baked treats, and your choice of wine allow you to relax without ever needing to leave your room. Spacious suites, luxury linens, and quiet evenings create the ideal environment for rest and connection.
With top national rankings and limited winter availability, Jail Hill Inn continues to set the standard for the best weekend getaway in the Midwest. Plan your winter escape now and experience Galena at its most inviting.
Find the Ultimate December Getaway for the Holidays
Best Christmas Getaway in December
A December escape to St. Augustine brings together warm Southern charm, festive energy, and a holiday calendar unlike anywhere else in the country. A St. Augustine Christmas is defined by glowing streets, historic architecture dressed in lights, and seasonal experiences that turn every evening into something special. From the famous St. Augustine Night of Lights to waterfront celebrations, this city offers one of the most memorable holiday trips in the South.
Christmas lights in St. Augustine transform the historic district into a walkable wonderland. Millions of white lights illuminate centuries-old landmarks, the Bridge of Lions, and the bayfront, creating an atmosphere that feels both timeless and joyful. Riding the Night of Lights trolley is an easy way to enjoy the display while learning about the city’s history. Boat cruises across Matanzas Bay provide another perspective, letting you see the lights shimmer across the water.
Beyond the lights, St. Augustine Christmas events fill December with variety. The St. Augustine Christmas parade brings families together downtown with music and festive floats. The Holiday Regatta of Lights highlights decorated boats gliding through the harbor. Candlelit museum tours, holiday markets, concerts at the amphitheater, and seasonal celebrations at the lighthouse all add depth to your stay. There are countless things to do in St. Augustine at Christmas, whether you prefer history, entertainment, or relaxed evenings under the lights.
Where to Stay During Your St. Augustine Christmas Getaway
Choosing the best place to stay in St. Augustine at Christmas time makes all the difference. St. Francis Inn is a historic, centrally located St. Augustine bed and breakfast that allows you to walk to Night of Lights displays, dining, and seasonal events without worrying about parking. Staying close to the historic district gives you the flexibility to enjoy daytime sightseeing and return easily for evening festivities.
This well-appointed bed and breakfast enhances the holiday experience with thoughtful amenities, inviting guest rooms, and warm hospitality. Features like complimentary bikes, private parking, daily breakfast, evening treats, and comfortable gathering spaces create a true home base during December travels. After a full day of St. Augustine Christmas events, it’s a relief to return somewhere calm, welcoming, and close to everything.
If you are planning a December getaway filled with lights, history, and festive Southern charm, a St. Augustine Christmas delivers an experience worth repeating year after year.
Get Out on the Hiking Trails Near Asheville, NC This Winter
Best Hikes Near Asheville for a Winter Adventure
Winter transforms Western North Carolina into a rewarding destination for outdoor exploration, and the best hikes near Asheville take on a whole new character during the colder months. With fewer crowds and crisp mountain air, winter hiking offers a quieter, more immersive way to experience all the wonderful things to do in Western North Carolina. Bare trees reveal long-range views that stay hidden during other seasons, making winter an ideal time for adventure-focused travelers.
Hiking in Asheville, NC during winter delivers more than scenic beauty. Cooler temperatures make longer hikes more comfortable, while frozen waterfalls and frost-lined trails add dramatic detail to familiar routes. Many visitors are surprised by how active and accessible Asheville hikes remain throughout winter, especially on clear days following light snowfall.
Some of the best hikes in North Carolina are found just outside Asheville. DuPont State Recreational Forest remains a favorite for waterfall hikes, including Triple Falls and High Falls, where winter ice formations create striking visuals. Along the Blue Ridge Parkway, trails like Beacon Heights and Graveyard Fields offer panoramic views when conditions allow, making them standout choices for winter adventure. Chimney Rock State Park and Nantahala National Forest also provide rewarding routes for hikers looking to explore western North Carolina beyond the usual summer season.
Where to Stay After Hiking Near Asheville
After a full day on the trails, having a comfortable place to recharge makes all the difference. The Orchard Inn offers one of the most elevated mountain getaways in North Carolina, pairing outdoor access with thoughtful amenities designed for relaxation. Spacious rooms, suites, and private cottages give guests a quiet place to unwind after hiking near Asheville.
The on-site spa and sauna help ease sore muscles, while fireplaces, jetted tubs in select accommodations, and cozy gathering spaces create a welcoming atmosphere during winter evenings. Each morning begins with a gourmet breakfast, setting you up for another day exploring the best hikes near Asheville.
Winter in North Carolina invites travelers to slow down, embrace the season, and experience the mountains from a fresh perspective. With exceptional trails nearby and a relaxing retreat waiting at the end of the day, this is the perfect time to plan your winter adventure.
Getaways Near Chicago: West Bend’s Fall Colors Guide
Why West Bend Is One of the Best Getaways Near Chicago
If you’re searching for one of the best getaways near Chicago this fall, you don’t have to drive far to find it. Just over two hours north, West Bend, Wisconsin, trades city streets for wooded hills, winding country roads, and some of southeastern Wisconsin’s best fall scenery. Wisconsin’s fall color season generally begins in September and continues through October, with Washington County typically peaking sometime in October, making mid-to-late October an especially good window for fall getaways near Chicago.
West Bend is roughly two hours from Chicago depending on traffic, an easy distance for a weekend without spending most of the trip in the car. Once you arrive, the wooded hills and backroads of the Kettle Moraine make it feel much farther from the city than the drive suggests, which is part of what makes it a strong pick for a couples getaway near Chicago or one of the better weekend getaways from Chicago for an anniversary or fall trip.
Best Ways to See Fall Colors Near West Bend
A slow drive through Kettle Moraine State Forest is one of the easiest ways to take in the season. The official Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive stretches 115 miles across six southeastern Wisconsin counties, connecting glacial terrain, forests, and small communities, though you don’t need to drive the whole route to enjoy it. Pick a section near West Bend and leave time to stop at overlooks and trailheads along the way.
For a closer look, Parnell Tower is the hike most guests come back talking about. The Parnell Tower Trail is a 3.5-mile loop, and its 60-foot observation tower rises above the treetops for a wide view of the glacial landscape. Holy Hill is another good outing, with grounds and trails to explore before climbing the Basilica’s Scenic Tower, a 178-step climb generally open through October 31, weather permitting.
Right across the street from the inn, Shalom Wildlife Zoo offers a four-mile route through natural-style habitats, with Wisconsin’s fall foliage as the backdrop and seasonal golf-cart rentals for those who’d rather ride than walk. Cedarburg, a short drive away, is worth the trip on its own. Stop at Cedar Creek Winery for a wine flight, then walk the historic downtown streets and browse the shops.
If your dates align, Cedarburg’s Wine and Harvest Festival and Oktoberfest add another reason to turn a quick trip into one of your favorite fall weekend getaways. Downtown West Bend rounds things out with locally owned boutiques, antiques, and the Museum of Wisconsin Art, and for an earlier fall trip, Peck and Bushel Fruit Company in Colgate offers pick-your-own apples, cider, and doughnuts through mid-October.
Where to Stay for Your Fall Getaway
Hidden Serenity, the best Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin, was built with a couples’ getaway in mind, close to the top things to do in West Bend. With just seven guest rooms, the inn stays intimate even during the busiest fall weekends, and you don’t have to leave the property to enjoy the season. Walking trails wind through the wooded grounds, giving you a quiet place to take in the changing leaves at your own pace.
Every stay includes a complimentary 90-minute spa session, with access to a steam room, sauna, hot tub, and other quiet spaces, along with a homemade three-course breakfast each morning. You’re within easy reach of the Kettle Moraine, downtown West Bend, and Cedarburg, so you can spend the day exploring and still come back to a quiet, private place to unwind.
Book your stay and start planning one of the best getaways near Chicago this fall.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is West Bend, Wisconsin?
West Bend sits in Washington County in southeastern Wisconsin, roughly two hours north of Chicago, at the edge of the Kettle Moraine.
When do fall colors peak in Wisconsin?
Fall color generally begins appearing in mid-September and moves across the state through October, with Washington County and the West Bend area often peaking in mid-to-late October, though timing varies year to year.
Where to see fall colors in Wisconsin near West Bend?
Kettle Moraine State Forest, Parnell Tower, and Holy Hill are three of the most reliable spots near West Bend, each offering a different vantage point on the region’s glacial terrain and fall foliage.
Is Kettle Moraine State Forest good for fall colors?
Yes, the forested glacial hills and ridges make it especially scenic in fall, and the 115-mile Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive offers an easy way to see the landscape without committing to a long hike.
Book your stay at Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast and plan one of the best fall getaways near Chicago this season.