What To See & Do
Fantastic Whale Watching Tours in Juneau, Alaska
Best Whale Watching in Juneau this Season in Alaska
Whale watching in Juneau is one of the most compelling ways to experience Alaska’s coastal wildlife during the summer season. Set along the Inside Passage, Juneau offers nutrient-rich waters that attract humpback whales, along with orcas and occasional grey whales. For travelers planning an adventurous getaway in the northern reaches, this region is known for both its wildlife activity and dramatic natural surroundings.
Late Spring and Summer are the peak times for whale watching in Juneau, with long daylight hours and consistent feeding patterns increasing the likelihood of sightings. From late spring through early fall, whales migrate to these waters, and June is especially active. Visitors often witness tail slaps, surface dives, and, on occasion, breaching behavior. Beyond whales, tours frequently encounter sea lions, harbor seals, porpoises, and bald eagles, adding variety to each outing.
Most Juneau whale watching tours last between two and four hours and operate on small to mid-sized vessels. These tours are led by licensed captains and knowledgeable naturalists who provide context on marine life, regional ecology, and responsible wildlife viewing practices. Boats are designed for comfort and visibility, typically featuring open decks and heated indoor cabins. As you travel through the Inside Passage, you will also take in views of forested islands, distant mountain peaks, and glacial landscapes. There are plenty of Juneau excursions to check out!
Stay Centrally Located near Downtown Juneau
Selecting the right Juneau Hotel enhances your overall experience, especially during the busy summer season. Booking accommodations in advance ensures convenient access to tour operators and flexible scheduling options. Staying locally often allows for smaller group tours and a more personalized approach to Juneau excursions.
Alaska’s Capital Inn offers a comfortable and well-located home base for your trip. Guests can enjoy a house-made breakfast each morning and a relaxed afternoon happy hour with light snacks and drinks. The innkeepers also assist with booking Juneau tours to help streamline your itinerary. After a day on the water, returning to a quiet and thoughtfully appointed guest room provides the rest needed for the next day’s activities.
With its reliable wildlife sightings, experienced tour operators, and striking coastal scenery, whale watching in Juneau remains one of the most rewarding things to do in Juneau during the summer. Planning ahead allows you to make the most of this memorable Alaska experience.
Fifa World Cup is Coming to Seattle
Plan a Unique World Cup Seattle Getaway This Summer
World Cup Seattle is set to transform the city into a global hub of energy and culture this summer, drawing fans from around the world for matches at Lumen Field. With six games scheduled in a downtown Seattle stadium, visitors can expect an energetic atmosphere both inside and outside the venue. From organized fan zones to waterfront watch parties and citywide celebrations, Seattle offers far more than match-day excitement.
Bainbridge Island provides a compelling alternative when deciding where to stay near Seattle. Located just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown, the island offers a slower, more intentional pace between World Cup Seattle games. The ferry itself becomes part of the journey, offering views of the skyline before arriving in a walkable town filled with local character.
Between matches, visitors can explore Winslow Way’s boutiques, galleries, and cafés, or spend time outdoors at places like the Bloedel Reserve. Dining options reflect the region’s seasonal focus, with waterfront settings and menus that highlight local ingredients. For those who prefer activity, kayaking in Eagle Harbor or biking along scenic routes provides a way to experience the surrounding landscape without straying far from town.
Where to Stay Near Seattle for World Cup Seattle
Tucked in downtown Bainbridge Island, the Eagle Harbor Inn puts guests a short walk from the ferry terminal, making it one of the smartest bases for attending World Cup Seattle matches. The crossing itself becomes part of the experience: a scenic buffer between the energy of Lumen Field and the unhurried pace of island life.
As Seattle hotel availability tightens around tournament dates, Bainbridge offers something increasingly rare: easy access to the action without the city’s noise and crowds. Skip the gridlocked traffic and steep parking fees that come with major tournament days, and instead step onto a ferry. Come back from a full day of matches and fan events to quieter streets, fresh air, and a genuine change of scenery. It’s a way to do the World Cup that leaves you actually looking forward to tomorrow.
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.
Get a Dose of History at the St. Augustine History Museum
Visit the St. Augustine History Museum for a Unique Perspective
St. Augustine’s historic district is an easy place to fill a full day on foot, and the St. Augustine History Museum is a smart starting point for understanding what you are seeing around you. In fact, we’d argue it’s one of the most unique things to do in St. Augustine. Inside, exhibits trace major chapters of the city’s past, including early Native American history, Spanish colonial rule, British occupation, and the city’s later role in the United States. Displays featuring local artifacts, trading-post scenes, and a Spanish treasure room add context to the nearby streets, architecture, and landmarks.
After your museum visit, continue along George Street for shops, live music, and casual people watching among historic buildings. If you want to keep the momentum going, St. Augustine offers several other museums in close proximity that expand on the themes you will encounter in the historic district. The Lightner Museum, set inside the former Alcazar Hotel built by Henry Flagler, highlights Gilded Age decorative arts, including stained glass, antique furnishings, and vintage musical machines. For maritime stories, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum pairs tower views with exhibits on shipwreck archaeology and lighthouse keeping.
Other options for museum-focused exploring include the Oldest House Museum, the Spanish Military Hospital Museum, and the St. Augustine Pirate and Treasure Museum, which leans into pirate lore with artifacts and interactive displays. Villa Zorayda offers guided visits through a distinctive home inspired by Spanish architecture, while the Old Jail Museum provides costumed interpretation in a historic jail associated with Flagler. For deeper cultural context, the Lincolnville Museum and Cultural Center highlights African American history connected to the Lincolnville community. If shipwrecks and underwater discovery interest you, add the St. Augustine Shipwreck Museum to your route.
Stay at Casa de Sueños in the Historic District
When the day winds down, our Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine offers a comfortable home base in the heart of downtown. The bed and breakfast has seven individually designed rooms, with select options that include jetted tubs or private balconies. Guests can enjoy a welcoming social hour, then start the next morning with a complimentary gourmet breakfast.
Each room includes a decanter of cream Sherry, and the inn also offers packages and add-ons that can be tailored to a special occasion. Reserve your unique St. Augustine getaway and keep your itinerary within easy walking distance.
Get Adventurous With These Cape Cod Shark Tours
Best Shark Tours on Cape Cod for a Summer Adventure
Summer is one of the most exciting times to experience Shark Tours on Cape Cod. The waters off the Outer Cape become a hub of marine activity as gray seals gather along the shoreline and Cape Cod great white sharks return to their seasonal feeding grounds. For visitors seeking a memorable coastal adventure, shark tours offer an opportunity to witness one of the Atlantic Ocean’s most fascinating predators while learning about the region’s unique marine ecosystem.
Departing primarily from Chatham and Orleans, many Cape Cod shark tours are led by experienced captains, naturalists, and marine experts who provide educational commentary throughout the excursion. Guests may observe shark activity near seal colonies, spot dorsal fins in the distance, and gain valuable insight into shark behavior, migration patterns, and conservation efforts taking place offshore. These tours provide much more than wildlife viewing, creating a deeper appreciation for the Atlantic waters that surround Cape Cod.
Organizations such as the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy have helped transform public interest in Cape Cod great white sharks into meaningful conservation awareness. Several tour operators work closely with researchers and educational organizations to share information about ongoing studies, shark tracking initiatives, and marine habitat protection. Visitors interested in expanding their experience can also visit the Shark Center in Chatham to learn more about local shark research and conservation programs.
A Refined Cape Cod Lodging Experience
After a day spent exploring the waters of the Outer Cape, return to Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn for a relaxing and sophisticated stay. Our adults-only bed and breakfast in West Harwich offers a peaceful setting within convenient reach of many popular Cape Cod tours and coastal attractions.
Guests enjoy beautifully appointed accommodations featuring plush furnishings, premium linens, and thoughtfully designed en-suite bathrooms. The seasonally heated pool provides a comfortable place to unwind after a day on the water, while each morning begins with a gourmet breakfast prepared with fresh ingredients.
Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a longer summer adventure, Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn offers the ideal home base for exploring all the best things to do on Cape Cod, including visiting nearby beaches, charming coastal towns, and some of the region’s most memorable outdoor experiences. Book your stay today and discover a different side of Cape Cod.
Get Wild at the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge
Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge: A Couples Getaway on Cape Cod
Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge offers one of the most rewarding opportunities to experience Cape Cod’s natural beauty. Located just off the coast of Chatham, this protected area encompasses dunes, salt marshes, tidal flats, and shoreline habitats that support a remarkable variety of wildlife. For couples seeking a memorable coastal escape, a visit to Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge belongs at the top of the list of things to do on Cape Cod.
The refuge provides a unique perspective on the region’s landscape, with opportunities to explore walking trails, observe migratory birds, and take in expansive waterfront views. Visitors can begin their experience at the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, where maps, exhibits, and trail information help guide the day’s adventures. Nearby trails offer access to scenic overlooks and wildlife viewing areas that showcase the refuge’s diverse ecosystems.
One of the most popular ways to experience Monomoy Island is by booking one of the many Monomoy Island excursions available from Chatham. These guided boat tours travel through surrounding waters, offering access to areas that cannot be reached on foot. Along the way, visitors frequently encounter Cape Cod seals resting on sandbars or swimming through the harbor channels. The combination of coastal scenery and wildlife sightings creates an unforgettable outing for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
A Refined Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast Experience
After a day spent exploring Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, couples can return to the comfort of Platinum Pebble Boutique Hotel in West Harwich. Conveniently located near many of the Cape’s most popular attractions, the inn provides an elevated lodging experience that complements a day of outdoor adventure.
Guest rooms feature modern furnishings, luxurious linens, and thoughtful amenities designed for comfort and relaxation. The adults-only atmosphere creates a peaceful setting for reconnecting and unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Guests can also take advantage of special packages, including experiences that highlight additional wildlife encounters and Cape Cod activities.
From Monomoy Island excursions and Cape Cod seals to charming coastal towns and waterfront dining, there is no shortage of things to do on Cape Cod. Whether you are planning a weekend retreat or a longer couples getaway, Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge offers an exceptional way to experience one of the Cape’s most remarkable natural destinations. Book your stay and discover the beauty waiting just beyond the shoreline.
Get Your Tickets for a Show at the St. Augustine Amphitheater
Best St. Augustine Amphitheater Concert Guide
From nationally recognized performers to lively community events, the St. Augustine Amphitheater is one of the best places to experience live entertainment on Florida’s coast. Located on Anastasia Island, just minutes from Historic Downtown St. Augustine, this outdoor venue combines outstanding acoustics with an intimate atmosphere, making every concert memorable. Whether you are planning a summer getaway or a fall escape, attending one of the many concerts in St. Augustine is a great addition to your itinerary.
The venue accommodates more than 4,000 guests while maintaining excellent sightlines throughout the amphitheater. In addition to major touring artists, visitors can enjoy the popular Front Porch area, home to seasonal farmers markets, night markets, local food vendors, and pre-show gathering spaces. Arriving early allows time to enjoy the atmosphere, explore nearby Anastasia State Park, or dine at one of the area’s locally owned restaurants before the show begins.
Throughout the summer and fall, the St. Augustine Amphitheater hosts an impressive lineup of country, rock, folk, blues, and contemporary artists. From Vince Gill and Dierks Bentley to James Taylor, The Black Keys, Alabama, and The Avett Brothers, there is something for nearly every music fan. With such a full concert calendar, planning accommodations early is recommended, especially during popular performance weekends.
Stay at a Historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast
After an evening of live music, unwind at the St. Francis Inn, a historic St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast located only about ten minutes from the St. Augustine Amphitheater. Dating back to 1791, the inn offers easy access to the city’s most popular attractions while providing a peaceful retreat away from the busiest areas.
Each guest room features its own unique character along with modern comforts designed for a relaxing stay. Guests also enjoy a complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning, an evening wine and snack reception, and refreshments available throughout the day. Staying at the inn places you close to the Historic District, Castillo de San Marcos, St. George Street, and Anastasia Island, making it easy to experience many of the best things to do in St. Augustine during your visit.
If you are planning to attend one of the exciting St. Augustine concerts this summer or fall, reserve your accommodations early. Combining outstanding entertainment with comfortable St. Augustine lodging near The Amp creates the perfect coastal getaway.
Getaway to Ren Faire Near Philadelphia
Mount Hope Estate’s Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire
The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is a defining summer event in the region, running weekends from mid-August through October at the Mount Hope Estate in Manheim. For more than four decades, the estate has been transformed into a 16th-century village.
Set across a 35-acre village, the Faire features more than 90 daily shows, including jousting, live music, theatrical performances, and street entertainment. Skilled artisans demonstrate traditional crafts such as blacksmithing and glassblowing, while over 100 merchants offer handcrafted goods. The Royal Kitchens offer a wide range of dining options, including vegetarian and gluten-free selections, alongside a selection of beverages, from ales to non-alcoholic drinks.
Each summer weekend introduces a distinct theme, from fantasy and folklore to seasonal celebrations, creating variety across repeat visits. The 2026 storyline, set during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I, unfolds through live performances and interactive elements, adding structure and continuity to the experience. Planning ahead is essential, as tickets to the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire must be purchased online in advance, and weekend themes can influence attendance.
The surrounding region offers additional appeal. Visitors can explore nearby Lancaster County, known for its farm-to-table dining, historic sites, and family-friendly attractions. Downtown Lititz offers a variety of shops and restaurants, while the Strasburg Rail Road offers themed rides, dinner trains, and a classic train trip through the Amish countryside. These nearby destinations make it easy to extend a day trip into a great weekend getaway.
Stay at a Beautiful West Reading Bed and Breakfast
The right lodging near the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire turns your day out into a genuine summer escape. Tucked across seven wooded acres just 30 minutes from Mount Hope Estate, The South Mountain Inn strikes that rare balance: close enough to the action, peaceful enough to actually unwind.
Little touches make all the difference. Think morning coffee arriving at your door and freshly baked cookies in the afternoon. Whether you’re jostling between Lancaster’s farmland charm and West Reading’s hidden gems or simply coming to relax after a long day of merriment, the Inn sits at an ideal crossroads for all the best things to do.
Make the Faire a weekend getaway centered around one of summer’s most spirited traditions.
Getaway to the Eastern Shore in Maryland
Best Maryland Beach Towns for a Coastal Couples Escape
Maryland beach towns offer couples a refined way to experience the Chesapeake Bay, where working marinas, historic streets, and coastal scenery create a setting that feels both relaxed and engaging. Along the Eastern Shore of Maryland, destinations like Rock Hall provide a central starting point, with easy access to a variety of waterfront communities known for their character and connection to the water.
In Rock Hall, days can begin with a walk along the harbor, where sailboats move steadily across the bay. Couples can rent kayaks or paddleboards, book a sailing excursion, or visit the Rock Hall Museum to better understand the area’s maritime history. Nearby, St. Michaels offers boutique shopping, waterfront dining, and the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum, while Oxford and Bellevue provide quieter experiences along the water, including ferry rides and opportunities for kayaking.
For those interested in beaches, Betterton stands out with its sandy shoreline and open views of the bay, making it ideal for swimming or a relaxed afternoon outdoors. Chestertown brings a cultural dimension with galleries, historic sites, and events tied to its heritage, while Kent Narrows and Stevensville introduce a more active boating and dining scene. Together, these Maryland beach towns create a coastal itinerary for couples looking to explore some of the best places to visit in Maryland.
A Refined Bed and Breakfast on the Eastern Shore
Set across 70 acres, this Bed and Breakfast in Maryland provides a quiet place to return after a day of exploring. Guests can choose from thoughtfully designed rooms, private cottages, or in-town vacation rentals, each offering a polished yet welcoming atmosphere. Evenings often begin with complimentary wine or beer and freshly baked treats, followed by time to unwind in a peaceful setting.
Mornings include a homemade breakfast before heading out to discover more Maryland beaches and coastal towns. On property, a saltwater pool and expansive grounds are their for your enjoyment, while curated getaway packages allow couples to personalize their stay. The Inn at Huntingfield Creek is an ideal base for experiencing Maryland vacation spots.