What To See & Do
A Birding Weekend at Horicon Marsh, Wisconsin
Best Things to Do Near Horicon Marsh This Spring
Spring is the best time to visit Horicon Marsh, when migration brings a steady stream of color, song, and seasonal momentum to one of Wisconsin’s most iconic landscapes. If you’re planning a weekend getaway in the Midwest, pair early mornings at the marsh with afternoons in West Bend for a trip that feels both outdoorsy and effortlessly easy.
Start at Horicon Marsh Wisconsin, where scenic trails and calm waterways make it simple to explore. During spring migration, birding in Wisconsin reaches its peak here, with opportunities to spot everything from cranes and pelicans to warblers, herons, and waves of waterfowl.
The Horicon Marsh Bird Festival, scheduled for May 8–10, 2026, adds guided outings, educational talks, and specialty tours that help you experience the bird sanctuary in Wisconsin through a deeper lens. Whether you join a first light walk or opt for a boat-based tour, the marsh delivers the kind of wildlife moments photographers dream about.
When you’re ready to switch gears, head toward West Bend for a change of scenery without losing the small-town charm. There are plenty of things to do in West Bend and the surrounding communities. Browse downtown galleries and boutiques, then plan a meal that highlights local flavors. If you want to keep moving, the Eisenbahn State Trail is a great option for cyclists and walkers, and nearby lakes make a relaxed add-on for kayaking or fishing. Scenic drives through the Kettle Moraine State Forest also fit beautifully into a spring itinerary, especially if you prefer to explore on your own schedule.
Recharge at a Luxury Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin
After a full day outdoors, come back to our Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin for a refined, cozy place to land. Settle into fine linens and luxury robes, then step onto our private wooded trail for a quiet evening walk. In the morning, enjoy a hearty multi-course breakfast before heading back out.
If you’re building your spring weekend around Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge, this is the kind of stay that makes the entire trip feel elevated. Book your room today and turn a weekend of birding, trails, and Midwest culture into a getaway you’ll want to repeat.
A Unique Glass Museum to Visit on Cape Cod
Best Things to See at the Sandwich Glass Museum
The Sandwich Glass Museum is one of the most distinctive museums on Cape Cod, offering visitors a closer look at the artistry and innovation that shaped the region’s creative history. Located in the historic town of Sandwich, this glass museum celebrates the legacy of the Boston and Sandwich Glass Company and its lasting influence on American design. For travelers looking for unique things to do on Cape Cod, the museum delivers an experience that blends history, craftsmanship, and visual impact.
Inside the Sandwich Glass Museum, galleries showcase an impressive collection of pressed glass, tableware, lamps, and rare decorative pieces. Each exhibit highlights how Sandwich glass evolved from functional household items into works admired for their color, detail, and design. Rotating exhibitions ensure repeat visits feel fresh, featuring both historic glass and contemporary interpretations of the craft.
One of the most popular attractions at the Sandwich Glass Museum is the live glassblowing demonstration. Watching skilled artisans shape molten glass into finished pieces gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the precision and creativity behind each object. The demonstrations offer a behind-the-scenes look at techniques that have been passed down for generations, making this glass museum a standout among Cape Cod museums.
Where to Stay Near the Sandwich Glass Museum
After exploring museums on Cape Cod, having a comfortable place to return to makes the experience even better. Our Cape Cod lodging in Harwich offers a convenient home base within easy driving distance of the Sandwich Glass Museum and other top attractions. The boutique inn combines thoughtful design, modern amenities, and welcoming hospitality, making it ideal for travelers who want easy access to the coast while enjoying a relaxed setting.
The Sandwich Glass Museum is open throughout the year, with hours that vary seasonally. Guests can begin their visit with a short orientation film before moving through the exhibits at their own pace. Whether you are exploring heritage glass, learning about glassmaking techniques, or planning a day filled with Cape Cod museums, this museum remains one of the most rewarding things to do on Cape Cod. It is an engaging stop that adds depth and creativity to any coastal getaway.
An Epic Day Snowshoeing at Hurricane Ridge, Washington
Best Hurricane Ridge Winter Activities Near Sequim
Winter at Hurricane Ridge transforms Olympic National Park into a bold, snow-covered playground filled with crisp air, wide-open views, and unforgettable mountain scenery. Just a short drive from Sequim, Hurricane Ridge is one of the most accessible winter adventure destinations in Washington, making it ideal for travelers who want snow without a long, complicated journey.
Thanks to Sequim’s famously drier microclimate, you can enjoy winter conditions while still returning to clear skies and coastal comfort at the end of the day. From bluebird snow days to dramatic cloud cover rolling across the peaks, Hurricane Ridge Washington delivers variety, beauty, and true seasonal excitement.
Snowshoeing is one of the most popular Olympic National Park winter activities, and Hurricane Ridge offers trails for every experience level. Beginners can explore the open meadows near the main parking area, where gentle terrain allows time to enjoy the views. More confident snowshoers often head toward Hurricane Hill, a classic route known for its panoramic payoff. Experienced adventurers may tackle Mount Angeles, a challenging climb that rewards with sweeping mountain perspectives.
Beyond snowshoeing, winter fun at Hurricane Ridge includes skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and cross-country skiing when conditions allow. The Hurricane Ridge Ski Area provides lift-served terrain with incredible Olympic views, while Nordic routes offer quieter ways to explore the snow-covered landscape. Backcountry skiing is also popular for those with the right experience and preparation.
Places to Stay Near Hurricane Ridge
After a full day in the mountains, staying close to the park makes all the difference. Juan de Fuca Cottages offers waterfront Sequim lodging that blends comfort with easy access to adventure. Located on Dungeness Bay, these cottages provide private beach access, walking trails, and peaceful views that feel especially rewarding after a day in the snow.
Warm up in your cottage, take a sunset walk along the shoreline, or gather around the fire pits as the sky fades over the Olympics. With Port Angeles and Hurricane Ridge just a short drive away, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy early starts and relaxed evenings. If you’re looking for one of the best places to stay near Hurricane Ridge, this winter adventure getaway delivers both location and comfort. Book your stay and experience the season at its best.
An Incredible Road Trip From Missoula to Glacier National Park
Missoula to Glacier National Park Road Trip Guide
Missoula is the kind of place that makes a Montana adventure feel easy from the start. You get mountain views in every direction, a lively downtown with breweries and local shops, and a laid-back atmosphere that helps you actually relax before the early drive. If you’re planning a Missoula to Glacier National Park road trip, Missoula is an ideal home base because you can explore the town, sleep well, and then head north ready for a full day in one of the most iconic National Parks in the country.
Glacier sits in northwest Montana near the Canadian border, about 140 to 160 miles from Missoula, depending on your entrance. The drive from Missoula to Glacier National Park typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and it’s scenic the whole way through Mission Valley, where big-sky views and rising peaks build anticipation. For a classic stop, plan time at the National Bison Range; it’s one of those only-in-Montana moments. If you want coffee or supplies before you enter the park, Kalispell is a convenient place to pause on the way to West Glacier.
Where to stay in Missoula for your Glacier day trip
After a long day on the road driving from Missoula to Glacier National Park, ending the day surrounded by comfort matters. Our Montana bed and breakfast offers five cozy guest suites, warm hospitality, and a hearty, homemade breakfast to fuel your morning. Set on 20 private acres overlooking the Bitterroot River and Missoula Valley, it feels removed from the noise but still close to town, so your getaway stays smooth from check-in to checkout.
Once you arrive, Glacier delivers on its reputation. Most Missoula travelers use the West Entrance near West Glacier to access Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, and the start of Going-to-the-Sun Road. For a different feel, the St. Mary Entrance brings dramatic mountain views right away and sets you up for areas like Many Glacier and Two Medicine. If you want quieter routes, consider Camas or Polebridge.
For an adventure day trip, build your plan around a few standout experiences. Start with Lake McDonald, then drive Going-to-the-Sun Road if conditions allow. If you want a hike with a big payoff, Avalanche Lake is a favorite. At Logan Pass, the Hidden Lake Trail is a classic for alpine scenery and the chance to spot mountain goats. Finish with scenic pullouts like Weeping Wall and Bird Woman Falls Overlook, then head back to Missoula with the kind of views you’ll be talking about all year.
An Oregon Coast Road Trip: Portland to Bandon
Best Oregon Coast Road Trip from Portland
An Oregon Coast Road Trip from Portland is one of the most scenic adventures in the Pacific Northwest. As Highway 101 curves along rugged headlands and wide sandy beaches, the drive is part of the experience itself. From working harbors to towering sea stacks, every stretch reveals new places to visit in Oregon that feel both wild and unforgettable.
Most Road Trip Oregon Coast itineraries begin by heading west on Highway 18 before connecting to Highway 101 south. A stop at Tillamook Creamery is a classic first break, followed by Cape Kiwanda’s sweeping dunes and Lincoln City’s expansive shoreline. Depoe Bay, known for whale watching, offers dramatic ocean views, while Newport features Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Continuing south, Cape Perpetua’s coastal hikes deliver panoramic viewpoints, and Heceta Head’s iconic lighthouse stands high above the surf. Florence provides a perfect lunch stop before the landscape shifts to the Oregon Dunes and the wave-swept cliffs at Shore Acres State Park. The full Portland to Bandon drive is a revelation of some of the most memorable things to do in Oregon.
Where to Stay on Your Oregon Coast Adventure
Arriving in Bandon feels like reaching the grand finale. Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint showcases dramatic sea stacks rising from the Pacific, while Old Town offers local seafood, galleries, and relaxed coastal charm. It is no surprise that many travelers consider it one of the best places to visit in Oregon.
Choosing the right lodging shapes the entire experience. Among Hotels on the Oregon Coast, Inn at Face Rock offers comfort and convenience just steps from Bandon Beach. A private beach trail eliminates parking stress, while a daily breakfast simplifies early departures. After a full day along Highway 101, unwind in the indoor pool or relax by the fire.
Whether planning around the best time to visit the Oregon Coast or mapping a detailed Oregon Coast road trip itinerary, this adventure promises lasting memories. Reserve your stay and make Bandon your home base.
Beautiful Places to Visit in Maryland This Year
Best Places to Visit in Maryland Near Deep Creek Lake
Deep Creek Lake continues to stand out as one of the best places to visit in Maryland, especially for couples who want a mountain escape without a long drive. Located in Western Maryland and surrounded by forests, trails, and small towns, this lake destination feels refreshingly removed from city life while still offering plenty to see and do. Couples visiting Deep Creek Lake enjoy crisp mornings, peaceful lake views, and time that invites you to slow down and reconnect.
Outdoor experiences play a major role in why this area ranks so highly among places to visit in Maryland for couples. Swallow Falls State Park is a must, featuring some of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in the state, including the impressive Muddy Creek Falls. Well-maintained trails guide you through old-growth forest and along the Youghiogheny River, making it an easy half-day adventure close to Deep Creek Lake. Nearby, Herrington Manor State Park offers a quieter experience with wooded trails, a calm lake, and shaded picnic spots that feel tailor-made for couples.
If you are looking to add variety to your itinerary, Wisp Resort brings year-round activities to the region. Winter offers skiing and snow tubing, while warmer months invite scenic chairlift rides, mountain biking, and the popular mountain coaster. Architecture lovers often plan a day trip to see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob, both within driving distance and well worth the time.
Explore one of the Most Romantic Deep Creek Lake Hotels
Choosing the right place to stay elevates your entire getaway. Among Deep Creek Lake Hotels, Lake Pointe Inn stands apart for couples seeking comfort, thoughtful service, and lakefront views. Guests enjoy a homemade breakfast each morning, afternoon wine and snacks, and welcoming innkeepers who help you make the most of your stay. After a day exploring the best places to visit in Maryland, return to cozy guest rooms designed for privacy and relaxation.
From waterfalls and mountain trails to architectural landmarks and local art, Deep Creek Lake offers couples a well-rounded getaway. When paired with one of the most inviting Deep Creek Lake hotels, it becomes easy to see why this destination continues to rank among the best places to visit in Maryland.
Best Boutique Hotels near Duke University for Couples
Historic Hotels near Duke University for Couples Visiting Durham
Durham makes it easy to plan a couples weekend that feels equal parts polished and personal. With Duke University at the center of so many visits, from campus tours and alumni weekends to work trips and hospital visits, you’ll want to choose Boutique Hotels near Duke University that can set the tone for the entire trip. When you do, you’ll find you not only get quick access to campus, but also the freedom to explore the North Carolina Triangle in your free time.
Beyond Duke’s iconic architecture, Durham offers a lineup of experiences that turn a simple visit into a true getaway. Spend time at Sarah P. Duke Gardens, browse galleries and exhibits, and plan a dinner reservation at one of the city’s standout restaurants. If you are building an itinerary around things to do in Durham, you will find plenty of options close by, from historic neighborhoods to greenways and local shops. Couples who want to extend the fun can also venture into the Research Triangle Cities for live music, festivals, and day trips to Raleigh or Chapel Hill.
A Boutique Hotel Stay That Elevates Your Duke Campus Visit
For couples looking for boutique hotels in Durham with a more refined feel, an inn-style stay, like the one you’ll find at Arrowhead Inn, offers the kind of calm you cannot always find in larger properties. With generous suites and private cottages, thoughtful design details, and quiet grounds that give you room to breathe after a full day out, we truly offer one of the best lodging experiences in the Triangle.
Comfort-forward touches, from luxury linens to in-room coffee service, make mornings easier, while features like fireplaces and soaking tubs can turn evenings into the best part of the trip. Start your day with a gourmet breakfast served onsite, then head out for campus plans or a full day of exploring. Business travelers and parents’ weekend guests appreciate practical perks like flexible policies and easy access to Duke without the traffic and parking hassle that can come with downtown hotels near Duke.
When you want a stay that feels tailored to your visit, Boutique Hotels near Duke University offer a smarter match for couples who care about atmosphere, location, and service. Add a few local experiences, plan a leisurely dinner, and make the weekend yours. Book your stay and enjoy Durham from a place that feels like it was chosen, not simply reserved.
Best Outdoor Winter Activities in Olympic National Park
Winter transforms Olympic National Park into an adventure playground filled with snow-covered peaks, misty forests, and quiet coastal views. With fewer visitors and dramatic seasonal scenery, winter is one of the best times to explore the park’s diverse landscapes. From alpine recreation to rainforest walks, winter activities in Olympic National Park offer a refreshing way to experience the Peninsula.
Hurricane Ridge is the centerpiece of winter adventure in the park. The Hurricane Ridge Ski Area offers downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and cross-country skiing, all paired with sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Snowshoeing is another favorite, whether you join a ranger-led walk or explore marked routes through snow-covered forests. At lower elevations, winter hiking remains accessible and rewarding. The trail to Marymere Falls near Lake Crescent stays open year-round, while the Hoh Rainforest in winter delivers moss-lined trails, rushing rivers, and a quieter, more immersive experience.
Coastal areas bring a different kind of winter fun. Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach are ideal for storm watching, tide pooling, and dramatic sunsets, making them standout winter activities in Olympic National Park. Wildlife viewing also improves during the quieter season, with chances to spot Roosevelt elk, bald eagles, river otters, and black-tailed deer. Photographers and scenic drivers will appreciate winter’s softer light, fresh snowfall, and peaceful roadways throughout the park.
Where to Stay for Winter Activities in Olympic National Park
After a full day outdoors, comfortable lodging makes all the difference. Staying in Sequim puts you close to Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and easy access points to the Hoh Rainforest. Juan de Fuca Cottages is unique Lodging in Sequim that offers a convenient home base for winter adventure while providing a warm, welcoming place to unwind.
Private cottages with fireplaces, kitchens, and water or mountain views are ideal for families, couples, and small groups. Many travelers appreciate the added comfort of a hot tub after skiing or snowshoeing, along with easy access to local restaurants and shops. This balance of adventure and comfort is what makes winter trips to the Olympic Peninsula so memorable.
Winter in Olympic National Park invites you to slow down, explore deeper, and enjoy outdoor winter activities without the summer crowds. With the right planning and a cozy place to stay in Sequim, your winter adventure will be one to remember.
Best Places to Visit in Oregon for a Coastal Winter Escape
The Best Places to Visit in Oregon this Winter
Late winter is one of the most rewarding times to explore the best places to visit in Oregon, especially along the coast. With fewer crowds and dramatic seasonal scenery, Oregon in the winter feels calm, expansive, and refreshing. Powerful waves, shifting skies, and quiet beaches create a setting that invites exploration and time outdoors without the rush of peak travel seasons.
The Oregon Coast continues to rank among the most memorable places to visit in Oregon during winter. Coastal towns offer relaxing days with walkable downtowns, local galleries, and seafood-focused dining. Late winter brings ideal conditions for stormwatching, beach walks, and scenic drives, making it a favorite season for travelers who enjoy natural beauty and quiet moments by the water.
Bandon stands out as one of the most scenic coastal destinations during late winter. Wide beaches like Bandon Beach, Whiskey Run Beach, and South Jetty Beach are ideal for peaceful walks, beachcombing, and watching winter waves roll in. Viewpoints such as Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, Seven Devils Wayside, and Devils Kitchen Vista Point provide sweeping coastal views that feel especially dramatic this time of year. Bullards Beach State Park adds variety with long stretches of sand and access to the historic Coquille River Lighthouse.
Nature lovers will also appreciate winter birding opportunities near Bandon. Bandon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge and the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge attract waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey throughout the season. January and February often bring King Tides, when exceptionally high tides create striking wave action and unforgettable coastal scenes.
Comfortable Lodging on the Oregon Coast
After exploring the many places to visit in Oregon, returning to comfortable lodging becomes part of the winter experience. Staying near the coast allows travelers to enjoy spontaneous beach walks and relaxing afternoons indoors when the weather shifts. Accommodations in Bandon offer easy access to beaches, town attractions, and coastal viewpoints, creating a well-balanced winter escape.
For an exceptionally comfortable place to stay in Bandon, the Inn at Face Rock offers the ideal stop on the Oregon Coast, with well-appointed guest rooms, a heated indoor pool and hot tub, and a complimentary breakfast buffet each morning. Late winter along the Oregon Coast highlights the region’s quieter charm. From dramatic beaches to cozy towns, this season reveals why the coast remains one of the most appealing places to visit in Oregon year-round.