What To See & Do
Explore these Unique Things to Do in Kalamazoo!
Best Things to Do in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on a Getaway
If you’re searching for the best things to do in Kalamazoo Michigan, you’ll quickly discover this vibrant Midwest city delivers far more than expected. From culture and craft breweries to waterfront adventures and walkable downtown charm, Kalamazoo offers a refreshingly unique getaway experience.
Start in the heart of downtown, where many of the top things to do in Kalamazoo Michigan are within easy walking distance. The historic Kalamazoo Mall, the nation’s first outdoor pedestrian shopping mall, remains a lively destination filled with boutiques, local restaurants, and inviting cafes. The Kalamazoo Farmers Market is another must for visitors wanting a taste of local flavor and community spirit.
Art and history lovers will find plenty to explore. The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts showcases impressive collections, while the Kalamazoo Valley Museum offers hands-on exhibits and a planetarium. Automotive enthusiasts consistently rank the Gilmore Car Museum among the region’s top attractions, and the Air Zoo Air and Space Experience offers interactive exhibits and historic aircraft that make learning exciting.
Outdoor recreation is just minutes away. Walk the trails at the Kalamazoo Nature Center, spend time at Bronson Park, or kayak along the Kalamazoo River. Woods Lake Park offers sandy beaches and easy water access, making it perfect for a relaxing afternoon. The Lillian Anderson Arboretum adds another scenic option for those craving fresh air.
Stay at a Boutique Hotel in Kalamazoo, Michigan
After exploring all the fun things to do in Kalamazoo, retreat to a Boutique Hotel in Kalamazoo, Michigan, which visitors consistently rate among the best. Guests return again and again for the thoughtful service and welcoming atmosphere, reflected in hundreds of five-star reviews. Located downtown, The Kalamazoo House places you steps from restaurants, breweries, shopping, and Kalamazoo events.
With ten uniquely appointed suites, personalized hospitality, and a multi-course breakfast crafted with seasonal ingredients, your stay becomes part of the experience. When planning what to do in Kalamazoo, make your accommodations just as memorable as your itinerary. Book your unique Midwest escape today and discover why Kalamazoo continues to delight visitors.
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.
Family Fun on Farms in Pennsylvania Dutch Country
Best Amish Country Farms to Visit in Lancaster County
If your family is looking for an escape from busy schedules and screens, few destinations compare to the authentic experiences found at Amish Country Farms in Lancaster County. Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, this region offers an opportunity to connect with local agriculture, learn about Amish traditions, and enjoy some of the most scenic countryside in the North.
Lancaster County is home to one of the largest Amish communities in the world, where working farms continue practices passed down through generations. Visitors can explore rolling farmland, roadside produce stands, covered bridges, and historic communities while gaining a deeper appreciation for rural life.
One of the most engaging experiences is a visit to Verdant View Farm, a fourth-generation family farm in Lancaster County PA that offers interactive farm tours. Families can milk a cow, collect eggs, meet farm animals, tour barns and gardens, and learn about sustainable farming practices. For families interested in a farmstay experience, the property also offers overnight accommodations that let guests experience daily farm life firsthand.
Lancaster County offers several memorable farm experiences. Old Windmill Farm in Ronks provides a hands-on Amish Farm Tour where visitors can interact with animals, gather eggs, and learn about farming traditions. The Amish Farm & House offers guided tours of an authentic Amish farmhouse, a one-room schoolhouse, and the surrounding countryside. At Plain & Fancy Farm, educational tours provide insight into Amish history, culture, and agricultural practices.
Families will also enjoy Cherry Crest Farm, a neighboring attraction known for its seasonal activities, farm animals, wagon rides, pumpkin patches, and expansive corn maze. For a taste of local culture and fresh products, Lancaster Central Market remains a must-visit destination, bringing together local farmers, bakers, and artisans under one historic roof.
Stay on a Working Farm in Lancaster County
After a day exploring Amish Country Farms, there is nothing quite like returning to a farm stay in Lancaster County. Guests enjoy genuine hospitality, fresh breakfasts, and the opportunity to experience the rhythms of farm life each morning. Staying on a working farm enhances every part of the visit, creating lasting memories for both children and adults.
Whether you are searching for an Amish Farm near Philadelphia, planning a family weekend getaway, or exploring things to do in Lancaster, these Amish Country Farms offer a unique way to experience Pennsylvania Dutch Country and create unforgettable family memories.
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.
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.
Finger Lakes Breweries: Best Craft Beer Near Cayuga and Seneca Lakes
A Craft Beer Trail Worth the Drive
Wine gets most of the attention in upstate New York, but Finger Lakes breweries have built a following of their own. Trumansburg sits almost exactly between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake, which puts our Finger Lakes Wine Country Hotel within a short drive of nearly every stop worth making. Whether you’re after a hoppy IPA, a farmhouse ale, or a cider flight after a hike, the breweries in the Finger Lakes cover a lot of ground without requiring much driving at all.
The Finger Lakes Beer Trail links more than 75 craft breweries across the region, and a Trumansburg base gives you a natural starting point. You’re minutes from Taughannock Falls State Park, close enough to Ithaca for an afternoon downtown, and plenty of other things to do in the Finger Lakes.
Breweries Near Cayuga Lake and Trumansburg
Garrett’s Brewing Co. is the closest local brewery, within walking distance of downtown Trumansburg. The taproom pours hoppy brews alongside pub favorites like burgers, sandwiches, and soft pretzels, and it hosts live music most weekends plus a Thursday open mic that draws a loyal crowd.
Ithaca Beer Co. sits on a farm between two Ithaca-area state parks, making it a natural stop after a morning outdoors. The patio has heaters and fire pits for cooler weather, and the kitchen turns out wood-fired pizza, burgers, and wings.
Liquid State Brewing pairs a heated patio and barrel room with a beer list that ranges from IPAs to Belgians, Germans, and sours. The food menu covers wood-fired pizza, including gluten-free crusts, along with German bratwurst and small plates.
Salt Point Brewing Co. in Lansing built its name on a flagship IPA, a saison, and a stout, though the wood-fired sourdough pizzas bring in just as many regulars. A four-pour flight runs $12 and pairs well with a classic Margherita.
Farther Toward Seneca Lake
Lucky Hare Brewing runs two Finger Lakes breweries, one in Watkins Glen and one in Hector, putting it firmly on the Seneca Lake side of a beer trail day. The Hector taproom sits on farmland with an open view of the lake, a good stop if you’re extending past the usual Cayuga loop.
Finger Lakes Cider House, based at the organic Good Life Farm in Interlaken, makes cider rather than beer, but it belongs on any full tasting itinerary. The ciders are pressed from apples grown on site and pair well with the cheese and charcuterie boards in the tasting room.
Planning Your Trip
Between the Cayuga Lake breweries close to Trumansburg and the Seneca Lake stops a bit farther out, you can cover most of what the Finger Lakes beer scene offers in a single weekend. If you’d rather split the trip between beer and wine, our Finger Lakes Wine Country Hotel staff is knowledgeable about the Seneca Lake wineries and is happy to point you in the right direction.
Your Home Base for a Finger Lakes Brewery Weekend
Staying at the Inn at Gothic Eves means all the Finger Lakes breweries are within an easy drive. Our Finger Lakes Wine Country Hotel is a ten-minute walk from Garrett’s, so there’s no need to plan around a designated driver for at least one stop on your list. Guests wake up to a locally sourced organic breakfast each morning and can book a massage or soak in one of our outdoor hot tubs at the on-site spa, a good way to recover after a few tasting flights.
Book your room at the Inn at Gothic Eves and use it as your base for a Finger Lakes breweries weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many breweries are in the Finger Lakes?
The official Finger Lakes Beer Trail includes more than 75 craft breweries spread across the region, with concentrations near both Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake.
What is the Finger Lakes Beer Trail?
It’s a self-guided trail connecting craft breweries throughout the Finger Lakes region, similar in concept to the area’s well-known wine trails.
What is the closest brewery to Trumansburg, NY?
Garrett’s Brewing Co. is the closest, located in downtown Trumansburg within walking distance of the Inn at Gothic Eves.
Are there Finger Lakes breweries near Seneca Lake as well as Cayuga Lake?
Yes. Lucky Hare Brewing in Hector and Watkins Glen covers the Seneca Lake side, while Garrett’s, Ithaca Beer Co., Liquid State Brewing, and Salt Point Brewing Co. sit closer to Cayuga Lake.
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.