Seasonal Guides
Plan Your Summer Vacation to the Best Lakes in Iowa
Best Lakes in Iowa for a Romantic Summer Getaway
The best lakes in Iowa come alive in summer, offering couples a balance of recreation, scenic beauty, and easy access to some of the most engaging Iowa attractions. In the Iowa Great Lakes region, Lake Okoboji and West Okoboji Lake stand out for their clear water, boating culture, and long-standing appeal as places to visit in Iowa. Whether your plans include time on the water or exploring nearby towns, this area is perfect for a romantic couples getaway.
The history of lakes in Iowa is especially evident in Okoboji, where visitors have gathered since the late 1800s. Early travelers arrived by rail to spend summers along the shoreline, enjoying lakeside hotels and steamboat outings. Today, that legacy continues with modern marinas, waterfront dining, and a full range of things to do in Iowa centered around the lakes.
Days here can be as active or relaxed as you prefer. Rent a boat from local marinas and explore East and West Lake Okoboji, or spend a quiet morning fishing for walleye, northern pike, and muskellunge. The Dickinson County Trails provide miles of connected paths for biking or walking, linking scenic natural areas with key Iowa attractions. Cultural stops such as the Pearson Lakes Art Center and the Iowa Great Lakes Maritime Museum offer a place to cool off during the warmest part of the day.
Shopping and dining also play a central role in the Okoboji experience. Browse local boutiques and antique shops, then plan an evening meal at one of the well-known waterfront restaurants. These moments, combined with sunset views over the water, define why this region remains one of the best lakes in Iowa for couples.
Hotels in Okoboji for a Relaxing Couples Stay
Choosing the right lodging is a key part of the entire experience, and The Oakwood Inn offers a refined alternative among Hotels in Okoboji. Set back from the water, this adults-only property offers a quieter setting while keeping you close to Lake Okoboji and surrounding attractions. Guests can begin each day with a multi-course breakfast before heading out to explore.
After a full day enjoying the best lakes in Iowa, return to landscaped grounds, inviting common areas, and thoughtful service. With convenient access to trails, dining, and lake activities, this property offers a seamless, memorable summer stay. Book your lodging and start planning your next couples getaway.
Romantic Getaways in NC: Plan the Perfect Fall Escape in Durham
Why Durham Tops the List for Romantic Getaways in NC
Romantic getaways in NC have a different kind of magic once fall arrives. A shared plate at a candlelit table. A slow walk while the maples burn red overhead. Coffee on a veranda in the crisp fall air. If you are searching for romantic getaways in NC, Durham in autumn is the perfect destination for a romantic fall escape. From late September through early November, this city trades its summer buzz for sweater weather and unhurried afternoons, making it one of our favorite romantic fall getaways in the South.
With so many things to do in Durham, there is no shortage of itinerary options for romantic getaways in NC. Spend a morning walking beneath the changing leaves at Sarah P. Duke Gardens, then fill your afternoons with the best fall activities Durham, NC has to offer. Visit the North Carolina Museum of Art in nearby Raleigh, or enjoy nights out at romantic restaurants in Durham. If you are looking for classic fall date ideas, you will find everything from apple orchards and fall festivals to a pumpkin patch in Durham, NC, which is known for, all within an easy drive of the inn.
After exploring romantic fall activities in Durham, you will want to return to a luxurious place to stay. Our Bed and Breakfast in North Carolina is a historic manor house dating to 1775, located on six acres just north of downtown Durham, and we have spent years perfecting the art of the quiet weekend away. Just twenty minutes from downtown, you can enjoy Durham’s restaurants, theaters, and shops before returning to peaceful gardens and luxury accommodations.
Fall Date Ideas for Romantic Getaways in NC
Some of our favorite romantic getaways in NC are the ones that allow you to slow down, and that is exactly what fall in Durham does. Flannel weather, colorful leaves, farm stands, and crisp mornings create the perfect setting for reconnecting. Whether you are planning one of the best weekend getaways in NC, searching for new fall date ideas, or simply looking for memorable fall activities in Durham, NC, these are the places we recommend to guests year after year.
- Pick your pumpkin at Holder Hill Farm. Looking for the perfect pumpkin patch Durham, NC has to offer? Located about 25 minutes from Arrowhead Inn, Holder Hill Farm is one of our favorite stops each fall. For a small admission fee, you can wander through the pumpkin fields to pick your own pumpkin straight from the vine, then enjoy seasonal attractions like hayrides, a corn maze, farm animals, and walking trails.
- Get lost together at McKee’s Cedar Creek Farm. About a 20-minute drive to nearby Rougemont brings you to McKee’s Cedar Creek Farm, home to one of the Triangle’s largest corn mazes. Spend an afternoon winding through miles of trails before browsing the pumpkin patch, going on a hayride, and visiting the farm animals.
- Watch the sunset at Maple View Farm. Some of the best fall date ideas are also the simplest. Stop by nearby Maple View Farm, about 30 minutes away in Hillsborough, for a scoop of homemade ice cream, then take it outside to watch the sun set over rolling pastures.
- Go apple picking near Durham, NC. You do not have to drive to the mountains to enjoy apple picking near Durham, NC. Orchard on Little River in nearby Bahama, less than 10 minutes from Arrowhead Inn, offers seasonal u-pick apples with availability that changes throughout the season. For a larger orchard experience, Millstone Creek Orchards, about an hour and a half away in Ramseur, features apple picking, fresh pressed cider, bakery treats, and hayrides. Back in Durham, about 30 minutes away, Perkins Orchard is a wonderful place to pick up fresh apples, pumpkins, cider, and seasonal produce.
- Experience Durham’s fall festivals. One reason romantic getaways in NC are so popular during autumn is the number of fall festivals in Durham, NC. CenterFest, presented by the Durham Arts Council, transforms downtown with artists, live music, food vendors, and performances each September. Durham Oktoberfest brings German-inspired food, dancing, and family-friendly fun to Durham Central Park, while local breweries, like Ponysaurus Brewing, host their own Oktoberfest celebrations throughout the season.
- See the fall foliage in North Carolina. Another reason couples love romantic getaways in NC is the chance to experience beautiful fall foliage North Carolina is known for. Unlike the mountains, where color peaks earlier, Durham typically reaches peak color in late October through early November, giving you more flexibility when planning your trip. Walk the trails at Eno River State Park or stroll beneath the Japanese maples at Sarah P. Duke Gardens for two of our favorite places to enjoy the season.
- Spend an evening downtown. After a day exploring, head downtown for dinner at one of the most romantic restaurants in Durham before catching a Broadway production, concert, or comedy show at the Durham Performing Arts Center. Finish the evening with a leisurely walk through the American Tobacco Campus, where brick pathways, fountains, and glowing string lights create one of the city’s most romantic settings.
Escape to a Bed and Breakfast North Carolina Couples Love
The most memorable romantic getaways in NC leave room for slow mornings, quiet evenings, and time to simply enjoy each other’s company. We believe the best place to enjoy those special moments is right here at Arrowhead Inn. Choose a room or suite in the historic manor house, or enjoy extra privacy in the Garden Cottage or Carolina Log Cabin. Our specials and packages were designed for occasions like these, whether you would like a fruit and cheese platter, fresh flowers waiting in your room, or one of our romantic getaway packages.
Mornings may be the best reason to book one of these romantic getaways in NC. Every stay includes our three-course gourmet breakfast, served in the Keeping Room or on the verandas. Our seasonal menus feature ingredients from our gardens and local farms whenever possible.
Book Your Romantic Fall Escape Today
If you are planning one of this year’s weekend getaways in NC, choose a weekend between late September and early November to enjoy Durham’s beautiful fall season at its peak. Book your stay at the Bed and Breakfast North Carolina couples choose for a romantic fall escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Durham, NC?
Durham offers Sarah P. Duke Gardens, apple orchards and pumpkin patches nearby, fall festivals like CenterFest and Durham Oktoberfest, and downtown dining and entertainment at the Durham Performing Arts Center.
When is peak fall foliage in North Carolina?
Peak fall foliage timing varies by region, with Durham typically reaching peak color in late October through early November, later than the mountains where color arrives earlier in the season.
What is Durham, NC known for?
Durham is known for Duke University, Sarah P. Duke Gardens, a growing food and brewery scene, and its role as part of North Carolina’s Research Triangle.
Where should you stay for a romantic getaway in NC?
Arrowhead Inn, a historic 1775 manor house on six acres just north of downtown Durham, offers a romantic fall escape close to the city’s best fall activities.
Romantic Getaways in Vermont’s Mad River Valley
Best Winter Escape for Romantic Getaways in Vermont
Winter transforms the Green Mountains into a storybook setting, making it an ideal season for romantic getaways in Vermont. The Mad River Valley offers couples both outdoor adventure and quiet moments together. Snow-covered landscapes and charming villages provide endless ways to enjoy the season.
For couples who love to ski, Sugarbush Resort is one of the top winter destinations in the region. With over 100 trails spread across two mountain peaks, Sugarbush delivers a dynamic experience for all skill levels. Mad River Glen is another nearby favorite, offering classic New England skiing and a welcoming apres-ski culture. Beyond downhill skiing, winter opens the door to snowshoeing and cross-country skiing at local favorites like Blueberry Lake and Olés Cross Country, as well as guided moonlit snowshoe tours through ClearWater Sports.
Between adventures, the Mad River Valley invites couples to slow down and explore. A covered bridge tour is a memorable way to experience the region’s character, especially in winter when these landmarks are topped with snow. Shopping in Warren adds a local touch, from the Warren Store to Vermont-made treats at the 5th Quarter Butcher and Provisions. Early spring visitors can also enjoy tastings along the Vermont Cheese Trail.
Romantic Places to Stay in Vermont for Winter Getaways
On your romantic getaways in Vermont, first and foremost, you should choose the right place to stay. A top-rated Vermont bed and breakfast in Warren provides an inviting retreat just minutes from Sugarbush. Historic charm, open mountain views, and thoughtfully designed guest rooms create an atmosphere that feels relaxed and personal.
Each morning at West Hill House B&B begins with a freshly prepared multi-course breakfast, designed to fuel winter adventures or leisurely mornings by the fire. Guests can also enjoy amenities like on-site trails, cozy common areas, and optional romantic packages for anniversaries or special occasions.
Winter is the perfect time to reconnect in the Green Mountains of the Mad River Valley. Start planning your romantic getaway and book one of the most memorable winter escapes in Vermont today.
Santa Fe in December is the Ultimate Christmas Getaway
Why You Should Experience Santa Fe in December
Explore Santa Fe in December this year, and get ready for a trip that packs in all the seasonal appeal and the festive glow of Christmas throughout the Southwest. Crisp air, snow-dusted mountains, and warm lights along historic streets create the perfect setting for a winter getaway. December brings the city to life with seasonal markets, culinary experiences, and some of the most memorable traditions in New Mexico.
Strolling Canyon Road is a must during the winter season. Art galleries glow with farolitos, and the atmosphere feels both lively and inviting. Downtown, you can spend an afternoon exploring museums or browsing local shops for handcrafted holiday gifts. With so many things to do in Santa Fe in December, each day offers something new to enjoy. Whether you choose a guided walking tour, a culinary adventure, or a leisurely day discovering the city’s creative side, you’ll find plenty to keep your winter trip full and relaxed.
Where to Stay for a Winter Getaway
For those looking for the best places to stay in Santa Fe, consider the charming El Farolito Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe. This welcoming, adults-only Santa Fe bed and breakfast, located near the Capitol complex and the Plaza, offers convenience, comfort, and thoughtful hospitality. The property features eight uniquely designed guest rooms, each with cozy amenities like fireplaces, private outdoor entrances, and inviting patios. Rooms include plush robes, soft linens, and in-room comforts designed to help you unwind after exploring the city.
Winter mornings begin with a homemade breakfast buffet that includes fresh fruit, a hot entrée, yogurt, and locally roasted coffee. The location makes it easy to walk to Canyon Road, the Plaza, and many of the other top things to do in Santa Fe in December.
December brings some of Santa Fe’s most beloved seasonal traditions. The Christmas Eve Farolito Walk on Canyon Road is a magical highlight, with glowing lanterns lighting the way as locals and visitors gather to celebrate. The Santa Fe Botanical Garden transforms during La Luz de Las Noches, offering a colorful display perfect for a nighttime outing. Ski Santa Fe provides snowy slopes just 16 miles from downtown, and nearby spas like Ten Thousand Waves offer a warm retreat on colder days.
A winter getaway to Santa Fe in December offers everything you’re looking for in a getaway this holiday season. With its holiday lights, creative energy, and mountain beauty, it’s one of the best places to visit in New Mexico during the Christmas season.
Seacoast Farmers Markets Open for the Season
Best Exeter Farmers Market on the Seacoast
The Exeter Farmers Market is one of the defining experiences of summer on the New Hampshire Seacoast. Set along Swasey Parkway beside the Squamscott River, this weekly market brings together fresh food, local vendors, and a lively community atmosphere that reflects the character of Exeter NH. Running from May through early October on Thursday afternoons, it is a natural centerpiece for anyone exploring things to do in Exeter NH during the summer season.
Visitors can expect a wide range of local goods, including fresh produce, artisan breads, cheeses, pasture-raised meats, and seafood. Vendors such as Roots in Reverie, Hurd Farm, and Swell Oyster Company highlight the quality and diversity of the Exeter NH Farmers Market. The market often features live music and prepared food, creating a setting where guests can relax, have a casual meal, and take in the energy of the Seacoast.
There’s plenty more things to do in Exeter. Its walkable downtown includes locally owned shops, art galleries, and historic landmarks, all within easy reach of the riverfront. Whether you are browsing boutiques, enjoying a meal at a local restaurant, or walking along the water, the Exeter Farmers Market fits seamlessly into a full day of discovery on the Seacoast.
Stay at a Luxury Exeter Hotel
A visit to the Exeter Farmers Market pairs naturally with a stay at a centrally located Exeter Hotel. Situated in the heart of downtown, this Exeter Hotel offers convenient access to the market, shops, and waterfront, allowing guests to experience the best of Exeter without needing to travel far. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms, refined finishes, and attentive hospitality create a comfortable setting after a day spent exploring.
With a limited number of suites and an intimate atmosphere, the hotel provides a more personalized stay than larger properties. Its reputation as the only AAA Four Diamond property on the Seacoast reflects a strong commitment to quality across accommodations and service. Whether planning a romantic weekend or looking for convenient access to things to do on the Seacoast, this Exeter Hotel offers a well-positioned home base for a summer getaway.
See the Iconic Sandhill Crane Migration in Nebraska
Best Sandhill Crane Migration Weekend in Nebraska
Each spring, the Sandhill crane migration transforms central Nebraska into one of the most remarkable wildlife viewing destinations in the Midwest. From late February through early April, hundreds of thousands of Sandhill cranes pass through the Platte River Valley, creating a powerful reminder of nature’s seasonal rhythms. For travelers planning a spring weekend getaway, this migration offers an unforgettable reason to explore Nebraska.
The Platte River near Kearney, Nebraska, is widely considered the heart of the Sandhill Crane migration in Nebraska. Its wide, shallow channels provide ideal roosting areas, while nearby cornfields offer critical food sources. Sunrise and sunset are the most rewarding times to watch the cranes as they lift off in sweeping waves or return to the riverbanks, their calls echoing across the valley. Mid-March is typically the peak viewing window, when crane numbers are at their highest.
Several dedicated viewing areas make the experience even more rewarding. The Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary offers guided tours and viewing blinds that allow visitors to observe the cranes without disturbing their natural behaviors. Whether you are a seasoned birder or a first-time visitor, witnessing the crane migration in Nebraska delivers a powerful connection to the natural world and remains one of the top things to do in Nebraska.
Where to Stay for Your Sandhill Crane Weekend
After a day spent watching Sandhill cranes in Nebraska, a comfortable place to unwind makes all the difference. Choosing a Bed and Breakfast in Nebraska allows you to enjoy warm hospitality, local insight, and a relaxing retreat near the Platte River Valley. Many places to stay near Kearney and Grand Island are well-positioned for early morning and evening viewing, making them ideal for a weekend focused on the migration.
Extend your spring weekend by exploring nearby cities like Omaha or Lincoln, where cultural attractions, dining, and walkable districts add variety to your itinerary. From wildlife viewing to city exploration, a Sandhill Crane migration weekend in Nebraska offers a thoughtful balance of outdoor wonder and Midwestern charm.
Sledding Adventures at the Durango Dog Ranch
Best Winter Adventures at Durango Dog Ranch
Winter in Colorado transforms Durango into a hub for outdoor adventure, fresh mountain air, and memorable seasonal experiences. One of the most talked about winter activities is a visit to the Durango Dog Ranch, where guests can experience authentic Durango dog sledding led by knowledgeable mushers and energetic teams of dogs. For travelers looking for things to do in Durango this winter that feel interactive and truly local, this experience stands out.
At the Durango Dog Ranch, guests are introduced to the history and techniques behind sled travel while learning how the dogs work together as a team. No prior experience is required, making it an ideal winter adventure for couples, friends, and small groups. Riders are encouraged to ask questions, meet the dogs, and take part in the experience, which adds depth and meaning to every outing.
The setting enhances the experience even further. Snow-covered valleys and wide open terrain create a sense of space and excitement that captures the essence of winter in Colorado. The balance of adrenaline and scenery makes dog sledding one of the most rewarding sleigh rides in Durango, Colorado, especially for visitors seeking something beyond skiing.
Relax at a Bed and Breakfast in Durango, CO
After a day of winter adventure, choosing a bed and breakfast in Durango, CO makes all the difference. Returning to a warm, welcoming Inn allows guests to relax, enjoy thoughtful hospitality, and settle into comfort. Cozy common areas, inviting guest rooms, and a fresh farm-to-table breakfast each morning create a great contrast to the outdoor excitement.
Beyond the Durango Dog Ranch, winter travelers can explore more of what the area offers. Ride the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad through snowy canyon views, browse downtown shops and galleries, or plan a visit to nearby hot springs. Snowshoeing trails and winter hiking routes offer quieter ways to explore the mountain landscape, while Purgatory Resort offers tubing, scenic lifts, and après-ski dining.
A winter adventure in Durango feels complete when outdoor experiences are paired with welcoming lodging. From dog sledding at the Durango Dog Ranch to peaceful mornings at the Inn, this mountain town delivers a winter getaway worth planning around.
Snowshoe Through a Winter Wonderland at Hurricane Ridge
Best Winter Weekend at Hurricane Ridge, Washington
A winter weekend at Hurricane Ridge Washington delivers mountain scenery, accessible snow adventures, and a refreshing change of pace from city life. Located inside the Olympic National Park, this high-elevation destination transforms into a winter playground once snow blankets the landscape. With well-maintained access via Hurricane Ridge Road, it is an easy drive for travelers planning a Seattle to Hurricane Ridge escape or a longer Olympic Peninsula trip.
Snowshoeing is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Hurricane Ridge in winter. Marked routes near the visitor area make it approachable for beginners, while longer routes toward Hurricane Hill offer elevated views for those ready to explore farther. Snowshoe rentals are readily available in Port Angeles, making this an easy activity to plan even on a short weekend. On clear days, the views stretch across snow-covered peaks and distant waterways, adding to the sense of wide-open space that defines Hurricane Ridge Washington.
For travelers interested in skiing, the Hurricane Ridge Ski Area offers a relaxed alternative to larger resorts. The terrain suits beginners and intermediate skiers, with a friendly, community-driven feel that keeps the experience focused on fun rather than crowds. Whether you choose snowshoeing or skiing, the close proximity between town and mountain allows you to enjoy a full morning in the snow without committing to an all-day excursion.
Where to Stay Near Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park
After time outdoors, Port Angeles provides a welcoming base for warming up and slowing down. Coffee shops, local restaurants, and waterfront walks make afternoons just as enjoyable as mornings on the mountain. Staying in a Port Angeles vacation rental puts you close to Hurricane Ridge Road while offering comfort, privacy, and space to relax. Many homes provide water or mountain views, creating a natural extension of the day’s scenery.
A winter weekend at Hurricane Ridge Washington balances adventure with ease. With reliable snow, scenic access, and inviting places to stay nearby, it is a mountain getaway that feels both exciting and approachable.
Snowshoe Through Winter in Wisconsin at Parfrey’s Glen
Snowshoeing Adventure at Parfrey’s Glen in Wisconsin
Winter invites couples to slow their pace and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds Baraboo. Parfrey’s Glen, one of the standout gems near Devil’s Lake State Park, becomes especially captivating in the colder months. Its dramatic sandstone walls, quartzite boulders, and winding 100-foot gorge showcase a side of the Midwest that feels wonderfully peaceful. For a couple’s winter getaway, Parfrey’s Glen offers refreshing air, quiet trails, and scenery that encourages you to explore at your own rhythm.
The 1.6-mile round-trip route is approachable for most visitors, making it easy to appreciate this unique landscape. Once snowfall settles across the Baraboo Hills, the glen transforms into a beautiful winter corridor. Snow collects along the canyon walls, a gentle stream flows beneath the cold air, and every step feels like a shared adventure. Guests can borrow snowshoes from the Inn or pick them up at the Devil’s Lake nature center, which adds a fun element to exploring this Midwest favorite.
Romantic Bed and Breakfast Getaway This Winter
After your time at Parfrey’s Glen, the right place to stay elevates your trip. Our Romantic Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin offers inviting spaces designed for comfort and connection. Each suite features luxury linens, plush robes, and full private baths, giving couples a warm and relaxing retreat after time outside. Our hilltop location offers sweeping views of the Lake Wisconsin Valley and easy access to forested trails that lead toward Parfrey’s Glen.
Your day begins with a delicious breakfast prepared with care, from savory egg dishes to homemade pastries. In the afternoon, you can unwind at the outdoor fire pit, enjoy the hot tub, or savor a happy hour drink in the Indigo lounge. Thoughtful amenities and genuine hospitality make it simple to enjoy more time together, whether you are returning from snowshoeing, hiking near Baraboo, or exploring the many winter activities nearby.
Winter in Wisconsin brings endless options for outdoor fun. Couples can continue snowshoeing at Devil’s Lake, ski at Devil’s Head Resort, try cross-country trails at Mirror Lake State Park, or spend time browsing Baraboo’s charming shops and restaurants. With each activity, Parfrey’s Glen remains the scenic centerpiece of your winter getaway. When your day winds down, our Bed and Breakfast offers the perfect place to rest, reconnect, and plan your next adventure.