What To See & Do
How to Enjoy The Charming Coastal Towns of New Hampshire
The Best New Hampshire Coastal Towns for a Weekend Trip
New Hampshire coastal towns are a quick, rewarding way to get that classic New England shoreline feeling without a long drive. Along the Seacoast, you can move from sandy beaches to rocky overlooks, from harbor strolls to historic streets, all within a compact stretch of coastline. Start your weekend with sunrise on the Atlantic, then spend the rest of the day doing what the Seacoast does best: Waterfront views, fresh seafood, and small-town shopping that feels curated, not touristy.
If you want a beach day with energy, Hampton Beach brings the boardwalk vibe, summer concerts at the Seashell Stage, and plenty of seafood shacks for lobster rolls and fried clams. Prefer something quieter and more local? North Hampton offers long walks on North Beach, and a can’t-miss stop at Fuller Gardens, a gorgeous oceanfront garden that feels like a well-kept secret. For dramatic scenery, Rye pairs rocky bluffs and tide pools at Odiorne Point State Park with the family-friendly shoreline at Wallis Sands State Beach.
No list of New Hampshire coastal towns is complete without Portsmouth, where coastal charm meets culture. Spend time in Prescott Park, step into the past at Strawbery Banke Museum, then head downtown for bookstores, craft cocktails, and standout dining. If you love quiet corners, hop over the causeway to New Castle, a tiny island town with sweeping views at Great Island Common and history at Fort Constitution.
Where to Stay for a Refined Seacoast Weekend Getaway
For the best of both worlds, use Exeter as your weekend home base. Just minutes from the coast, it adds a refined New England small town feel to your trip. From quiet strolls along the Squamscott River and visits to the American Independence Museum, to walks along the beautiful campus of Phillips Exeter Academy, there are plenty of wonderful things to do in Exeter, NH.
After a day exploring New Hampshire coastal towns, check into Inn By The Bandstand, the most elevated, historic hotel in Exeter, with eight guest suites, fine linens, and high-end comforts that make a weekend feel like a true escape.
In the evening, settle in with cocktails, then enjoy dinner at Ambrose, our in-house Exeter restaurant known for seasonal cuisine and a romantic, softly lit ambiance. Cap the night back in your suite, and let tomorrow’s coastal plans come easily. Book your weekend getaway direct today.
How to Enjoy Your Weekend Escape to the San Juans
Best Things to Do in the San Juan Islands This Winter
Winter is an inviting time to slow down and explore the best things to do in the San Juan Islands, especially if you are planning a coastal weekend escape. With fewer visitors, peaceful scenery, and a relaxed pace, winter in the San Juan Islands offers a different and deeply rewarding experience. The islands benefit from a rainshadow effect, which often brings drier weather than surrounding areas, making it easy to enjoy both outdoor adventures and cozy indoor moments.
Friday Harbor is the heart of winter activity on San Juan Island. Spend time browsing local boutiques, independent bookstores, and galleries, or warm up with coffee at a nearby café. The Whale Museum is a favorite winter stop, offering engaging exhibits about the orcas and marine life of the Salish Sea. Art lovers will also enjoy the San Juan Island Museum of Art and the many small galleries scattered throughout town.
Outdoor exploration remains one of the most popular things to do in the San Juan Islands in winter. Forest trails and shoreline paths take on a quieter feel this time of year, creating an ideal setting for hiking, beach walks, and fresh island air. After a day outside, unwind with a craft beer at San Juan Island Brewing or enjoy a relaxed afternoon with a book at Griffin Bay Bookstore.
Cozy Friday Harbor Lodging for a Winter Weekend
After exploring the best things to do in the San Juan Islands, returning to welcoming Friday Harbor lodging makes the experience even better. This well-appointed bed and breakfast in Friday Harbor offers comfortable guest rooms, thoughtful amenities, and inviting spaces to relax after a cool coastal day. Many properties also offer private suites and cottages, perfect for a peaceful winter weekend getaway.
Winter is also the perfect season for a little indulgence. Booking a spa day, enjoying a leisurely meal at one of Friday Harbor’s top restaurants, or simply relaxing by the fire are all part of the experience. With concierge services available to help plan activities, dining, and transportation, your winter visit feels effortless from start to finish.
If you are looking for a refreshing coastal escape, winter in the San Juan Islands delivers. From outdoor exploration to dining, shopping, and comfortable Friday Harbor lodging, there is no shortage of memorable ways to spend a winter weekend. Book your stay and experience it for yourself.
How to Get to the Summit of Mount Washington in New Hampshire
Best Mount Washington Adventure in New Hampshire
The White Mountains of northern New Hampshire offer an engaging mountain escape, where the Presidential Range rises above winding forest roads and expansive alpine terrain. At the center of this landscape is Mount Washington, the tallest peak in the Northeast and one of the most compelling destinations in New England. Known for its sweeping views and rapidly changing weather, Mount Washington New Hampshire provides a dynamic setting for travelers seeking a true adventure experience.
Exploring the region reveals a variety of things to do in the White Mountains. Visitors can walk through the granite walls of the Flume Gorge or spend time in Franconia Notch State Park, where cliffs and lakes define the terrain. The Kancamagus Highway offers a scenic drive through the mountains, with consistent viewpoints that highlight the scale of the surrounding peaks.
Reaching the summit of Mount Washington is a defining part of any visit. The Cog Railway provides a historic and accessible route, climbing from Bretton Woods through forest and into alpine conditions. A Mount Washington hike offers a more demanding option, with routes like the Tuckerman Ravine Trail and Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail showcasing waterfalls, ridgelines, and varied terrain. For flexibility, the Mount Washington Auto Road allows visitors to drive to the summit, with scenic stops along the way and expansive views at the top.
New Hampshire Inns Near Mount Washington
After a full day in the mountains, returning to one of the best New Hampshire Inns near Mount Washington creates a comfortable balance to the adventure. Guests can choose from thoughtfully designed rooms or private cottages, each offering a refined place to unwind. Mornings begin with a full country breakfast, while afternoons invite time in the Tavern with cocktails and small plates.
Evenings bring a more elevated dining experience at the on-site restaurant, where carefully prepared meals reflect the region’s character. The Inn also coordinates experiences such as guided hikes, helicopter tours, and climbing excursions, allowing guests to explore the Presidential Range with ease. For quieter moments, options like massage treatments or couples yoga provide a restorative contrast to the day’s activities.
From summit views to well-appointed accommodations, a Mount Washington adventure combines outdoor exploration with a seamless and comfortable stay, making it one of the most rewarding mountain getaways in New Hampshire.
Iconic Brass Band Concerts in Exeter, New Hampshire
Best Exeter Bandstand Events to Enjoy This Summer
Summer evenings in Exeter come alive with music, community traditions, and the timeless appeal of the Exeter Bandstand. Located in the heart of downtown, the historic Swasey Pavilion serves as the centerpiece for seasonal gatherings, making it one of the most popular things to do in Exeter NH. From the beloved Exeter summer concert series to local shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, a visit to the Bandstand offers couples an inviting way to experience the character of this New Hampshire town. You won’t run out of things to do in Exeter, NH!
The Exeter Brass Band concerts, held on Monday evenings throughout July, continue a tradition that has connected residents and visitors for generations. Guests gather around the Bandstand with lawn chairs and blankets while live music in Exeter fills the downtown streets. The welcoming atmosphere, combined with the charm of historic architecture and locally owned businesses, creates an authentic summer experience.
The history behind the Exeter Bandstand adds another layer of interest to every performance. Constructed in 1915 and designed by renowned architect Henry Bacon, the Swasey Pavilion remains one of Exeter’s most recognizable landmarks. Its intricate mosaic details and central location make it a destination worth exploring, even beyond concert nights. Visitors interested in local history can also learn more about the Exeter Brass Band’s roots, which date back to 1847.
Stay Steps from the Exeter Bandstand
After enjoying one of the most memorable events in Exeter, continue your couples getaway at Inn By The Bandstand, one of the most luxurious hotels in New Hampshire. Located just steps from the Swasey Pavilion, the boutique property places guests within walking distance of downtown attractions, restaurants, and seasonal events.
Each guest room blends historic character with modern comforts, offering fine linens, private bathrooms, curated décor, and thoughtful amenities designed for a relaxing stay. Guests can begin the day with an à la carte breakfast before exploring downtown Exeter or return in the evening for dinner at Ambrose Restaurant, conveniently located on-site.
Whether you are attending the Exeter summer concert series, exploring local shops, or discovering more things to do in Exeter NH, the Exeter Bandstand remains one of the area’s most cherished summer destinations. Plan your visit and enjoy a memorable couples escape filled with live music, local history, and boutique accommodations in the heart of Exeter.
It’s Time to Discover the Best Waterfalls in Wisconsin!
Best Waterfalls in Wisconsin to Explore This Spring
Spring in Wisconsin transforms the landscape into one of the Midwest’s most dynamic natural displays. As snowmelt feeds rivers and streams, waterfalls in Wisconsin reach their most powerful and dramatic state. For those seeking fresh air, scenic hikes, and memorable photo stops, spring in Wisconsin is the ideal season to plan a Wisconsin waterfall tour.
From the rugged north woods to the scenic southern parks, the best waterfalls in Wisconsin are spread across the state. Pattison State Park’s Big Manitou Falls plunges 165 feet into a striking gorge, offering one of the most impressive views in the Midwest. Amnicon Falls, Willow Falls near Hudson, and Cascade Falls in Osceola each deliver unique experiences, from easy-access overlooks to peaceful walking trails. Near Bayfield, Lost Creek Falls invites visitors to walk behind the cascading water, while Governor Dodge State Park showcases the accessible beauty of Stephens Falls.
For those who want to maximize their adventure, Marinette County is known as the “Waterfall Capital of Wisconsin.” With 15 waterfalls located within a short drive, creating a waterfall loop is simple and rewarding. Stops like Veterans Falls, Long Slide Falls, Strong Falls, and Dave’s Falls allow you to experience a full day of scenic exploration without covering long distances. Designing your own waterfall loop is one of the most exciting things to do in Wisconsin during spring.
Book a Romantic Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin
After a day spent discovering Wisconsin Waterfalls, where you stay matters. A romantic Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin offers more than just a place to sleep. Thoughtful hospitality, homemade breakfasts, and knowledgeable local hosts enhance your entire experience. Whether you are planning a weekend adventure or a longer getaway, choosing a locally owned B&B places you close to the best waterfalls in Wisconsin while offering comfort and character that elevate your trip.
Spring is fleeting, and water levels are at their peak. Plan your Wisconsin waterfall tour now, map out your must-see stops, and book your Romantic Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin for a refreshing Midwest adventure.
Jeep Tours & Big Adventure in Durango
Best Durango Jeep Tours Near Blue Lake Ranch
Few experiences showcase the rugged beauty of Southwest Colorado quite like Durango Jeep Tours. These guided off-road adventures take visitors beyond the main roads and deep into the San Juan Mountains, where historic mining routes, alpine landscapes, and panoramic views create an unforgettable mountain adventure getaway. Whether you are visiting Durango for the first time or returning to explore more of the region, a Jeep tour offers one of the most exciting and unique things to do in Durango, CO.
Many jeep tours in Durango Colorado travel through remote backcountry areas that are difficult to access without a specialized vehicle. Along the way, visitors can discover abandoned mining sites, mountain passes, waterfalls, and expansive views stretching across Southwest Colorado. Depending on the route and season, guests may also encounter colorful wildflowers, golden aspen groves, and local wildlife.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience by sharing stories about the area’s mining heritage, mountain ecosystems, and local history. Tour options range from family-friendly scenic excursions to more challenging backcountry routes designed for travelers seeking a true Colorado Jeep Tours experience.
Popular tour providers include Colorado Outback Adventures, which offers guided tours and Jeep rentals, Durango Rivertrippers with its scenic waterfall excursions, Outlaw Tours featuring historic routes and ghost towns, and San Juan Backcountry, known for its exploration-focused mountain adventures. Because these tours remain one of the most popular things to do in Durango, advance reservations are highly recommended during peak travel seasons.
Exceptional Lodging in Durango, CO
After a day exploring mountain trails and high-elevation scenery, Blue Lake Ranch offers an exceptional alternative to hotels in Durango, and is a welcoming place to relax and recharge. Located just outside Durango, the property combines refined accommodations with easy access to many of the area’s top attractions.
Guests can choose from 17 unique lodging options, including private cottages and cabins featuring mountain, lake, or garden views. Accommodations include king beds, fireplaces, walk-in showers, whirlpool tubs, and outdoor sitting areas designed for comfort and relaxation.
Each morning begins with a Southwest-inspired breakfast buffet featuring egg dishes, fresh fruit, breakfast meats, pastries, bagels, and other favorites. The peaceful setting allows guests to unwind while remaining close to downtown Durango, outdoor recreation, and the region’s most popular attractions.
If you are searching for what to do in Durango CO during your next mountain adventure getaway, combining Durango Jeep Tours with a stay at Blue Lake Ranch creates a memorable Colorado experience from start to finish. Book your stay today and discover the beauty of the San Juan Mountains for yourself.
Lace Up Your Boots for the Falling Waters Trail, NH
Best Falling Waters Trail Tips for Summer Hiking in NH
The Falling Waters Trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in Franconia Notch State Park, offering visitors the opportunity to experience some of the most impressive waterfalls in New Hampshire while exploring the heart of the White Mountains. Located at Lafayette Place Campground, the trail follows a lively mountain stream, passing waterfalls, wooden bridges, and scenic viewpoints before climbing toward the ridgeline near Little Haystack Mountain. For travelers planning a mountain weekend getaway, this trail combines beautiful scenery with one of the most memorable New Hampshire hiking experiences.
The lower sections of the Falling Waters Trail are especially appealing during summer, when cool forest shade and rushing water provide a refreshing escape from warmer temperatures. Along the route, hikers encounter several notable features, including Swiftwater Falls, Cloudland Falls, and a collection of smaller cascades and pools that make this trail a favorite among photographers and outdoor enthusiasts. The combination of moving water, mountain views, and changing terrain creates a rewarding experience for hikers of varying skill levels.
Many visitors choose to hike only the waterfall sections of the trail, which provide a moderate outing with excellent scenery. More experienced hikers often continue as part of the Franconia Ridge Loop, one of the best-known mountain hikes in New Hampshire. Proper footwear is recommended, as sections near the waterfalls can be wet and uneven. Bringing water, snacks, and an extra layer is also important because mountain weather conditions can change quickly.
A Comfortable Stay Near Franconia Notch State Park
After a day spent exploring the Falling Waters Trail, returning to Sugar Hill Inn, one of the most elevated New Hampshire Inns near Franconia Notch State Park, offers the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge. Located just a short drive from Franconia Notch State Park, the inn provides a welcoming retreat surrounded by the beauty of the White Mountains. Individually appointed guest rooms feature thoughtful amenities such as fireplaces, soaking tubs, and scenic views that complement a mountain getaway.
Guests can also enjoy restorative massage and yoga sessions after a day on the trail. Each morning begins with a freshly prepared breakfast featuring local ingredients, organic fair-trade coffee, omelets, baked goods, and seasonal specialties. Dinner service, available Wednesday through Saturday, showcases refined cuisine, carefully selected wines, and a warm atmosphere. Combined with easy access to waterfalls in New Hampshire, outdoor recreation, and the most popular things to do in the White Mountains, Sugar Hill Inn provides an ideal home base for a summer White Mountains escape.
Lodging Near UW Madison for a Game Day Getaway
Finding the Right Lodging Near UW Madison
UW Madison draws more than 51,000 students to its 939-acre campus every year, and just as many visitors come through for campus tours, move-in weekends, and Badger football. Camp Randall Stadium, the oldest stadium in the Big Ten, sits right at the edge of it all, which means the lodging near UW Madison you choose shapes the whole trip. A property within walking distance of the best things to do in Madison: no game-day traffic, no circling for parking, no rideshare line after the final whistle.
Madison offers everything from large downtown hotels to smaller, independent properties tucked into the neighborhoods surrounding campus. If you want a memorable stay, a boutique option near UW Madison gives you both proximity and personality, something a chain hotel a few miles out simply can’t match.
A Bed and Breakfast in Madison, WI Near Campus
The Buckingham Inn occupies a restored 1911 building with Prairie School details: clean lines, broad eaves, and banded windows in the spirit of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. Originally a three-flat apartment building that housed generations of students and university staff, it was fully renovated in 2015 by innkeepers Heidi and Tom, earning a residential rehabilitation award from the Madison Trust for Historic Preservation.
Today, guests choose from three suites with Craftsman styling. The University Suite features photos of campus landmarks, while the Varsity Suite is filled with vintage UW yearbooks and athletics memorabilia, a fitting detail for any Badger fan planning a game day getaway. Homemade breakfast and a well-chosen coffee blend are available each morning, giving guests a solid start before a day of campus tours or tailgating.
As a Bed and Breakfast in Madison, WI, just one block from Camp Randall Stadium, the inn gives guests a walkable alternative to hotels near the interstate. Free on-site parking means you can settle in on Friday and leave the car until it’s time to head home, skipping the search for a spot downtown or on State Street.
Why Location Matters on Game Day Weekends
Hotels farther from campus fill fast on football weekends and often require a shuttle or a long walk through crowds. Staying within a block or two of Camp Randall lets you enjoy breakfast, walk to the game, and be back in your room minutes after the final play. The same proximity works for quieter visits too: campus tours, orientation weekends, and reunions all benefit from lodging near University of Wisconsin buildings like Bascom Hill and the Kohl Center.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I stay in Madison, Wisconsin for a UW Madison visit?
Look for lodging within walking distance of campus and Camp Randall Stadium. Staying close cuts down on game-day traffic and parking hassles, and puts you near State Street and Capitol Square as well.
How much is parking at Camp Randall Stadium?
Game-day parking near the stadium varies by lot and event, and rates typically rise on football Saturdays. Staying at a property with free on-site parking within walking distance removes the need to pay for stadium parking at all.
Is there lodging within walking distance of UW Madison?
Yes. Several properties sit within a few blocks of campus and Camp Randall, including The Buckingham Inn, which is one block from the stadium and an easy walk to Bascom Hill and downtown Madison.
What makes a bed and breakfast a good choice near campus?
A bed and breakfast typically offers a more personal experience than a chain hotel, often paired with homemade breakfast, historic architecture, and a closer walk to campus landmarks.
Lolo Pass Day Trip & Wildflower Viewing Guide
Best Lolo Pass Weekend Scenic Drive in Montana
A visit to Lolo Pass offers one of the most rewarding ways to experience a mountain weekend in western Montana, especially in late spring and early summer when Montana wildflowers begin to bloom. Located about 40 miles from Missoula, this scenic drive follows Highway 93 before connecting to the historic Lolo Trail along Highway 12. The route gradually climbs alongside Lolo Creek, with forested slopes and layered mountain views that define this stretch of the Bitterroot Range.
One of the most memorable stops along the way is Packer Meadow, where Missoula wildflowers create a vivid display across the open landscape. During peak bloom, camas flowers spread in shades of purple and blue, joined by lupine, Indian paintbrush, arrowleaf balsamroot, and yarrow. This easy roadside stop provides a convenient opportunity to step out, take photos, and experience the seasonal color up close.
As the drive continues toward higher elevations, the scenery shifts with the terrain. Beargrass appears along the hillsides with tall white blooms, while glacier lilies can emerge earlier in the season as the snow recedes. Scenic pullouts along the Lolo Trail offer safe places to pause and take in the surrounding mountains, making this one of the most scenic drives in Montana.
The Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located at the summit on the Montana and Idaho border, is a key stop along the route. Visitors will find parking, picnic areas, and interpretive exhibits that share the history of the Lolo Trail, including its connection to the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Nez Perce Tribe. Staff are often available to provide updates on current conditions and recommendations for what to do at Lolo Pass, including nearby hiking options.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast in Montana
After a day exploring Lolo Pass, returning to a Bed and Breakfast in Montana offers a comfortable and well-appointed place to relax. Guests can expect thoughtful amenities such as fireplaces in select rooms, jetted tubs, and views of the Bitterroot Valley. Mornings begin with a freshly prepared breakfast, providing a strong start before heading out to explore all the great things to do in Missoula or nearby trails.