What To See & Do
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.
Kalamazoo Air Zoo: The Ultimate Guide
Planning Your Visit to the Kalamazoo Air Zoo
If you’re mapping out things to do in Kalamazoo, Michigan, the Kalamazoo Air Zoo deserves a spot near the top of the list. This Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science museum pairs more than 100 historic aircraft and spacecraft with an indoor amusement park, which makes it one of the rare Kalamazoo museums that appeals equally to aviation buffs and couples looking for something different from a typical afternoon downtown.
The Air Zoo Kalamazoo campus is actually two connected sites: the Flight Innovation Center and the Flight Discovery Center, linked by a short walk or a free shuttle. Between them, you’ll find a rare SR-71 Blackbird training variant, one of the fastest crewed aircraft ever built, along with full-motion flight simulators and indoor amusement rides. It’s located in Portage, Michigan, just off I-94, about 15 minutes from downtown Kalamazoo, which makes it an easy addition to a longer weekend itinerary.
What Is the Air Zoo, and What Will You See?
The Air Zoo began as the Kalamazoo Aviation History Museum before growing into the aerospace and science museum it is today. Inside, the Restoration and Flight Discovery Center lets visitors watch experts work on real aircraft restorations in progress. Each September, select cockpits open to the public, though the exact schedule for this year hasn’t been released yet, so it’s worth checking the Air Zoo website closer to fall. Adults who want a more hands-on experience can also sign up for Adult Space Camp, a unique way to spend a few hours if you’re curious about space travel.
A few practical notes before you go: the museum generally runs Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm and Sunday from noon to 5 pm, though hours shift seasonally, so confirm before you head out. Online tickets aren’t date-specific, which is useful if your plans are still flexible, and frequent visitors often find that an annual membership pays for itself quickly. Most guests spend two to four hours exploring, parking is free for cars and motorcoaches alike, and since most of the museum sits indoors, it’s a dependable choice on a rainy day or a stretch of summer heat when you’d rather not be outside all afternoon.
Where to Stay: A Boutique Hotel in Kalamazoo
After a few hours exploring aircraft and simulators, downtown Kalamazoo is 15 minutes away and worth the trip. The Kalamazoo House is a boutique hotel in Kalamazoo set inside a beautifully restored home, with a locally owned feel that’s a genuine departure from a big-box hotel near the interstate. Every stay includes a multi-course breakfast, along with the kind of personal touches that come with a small, independently run property. Guests have left more than 650 five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, and the inn is consistently rated one of the best places to stay in Michigan.
Downtown Kalamazoo also puts you close to the Kalamazoo Mall, the country’s first outdoor pedestrian shopping district, along with breweries like Bell’s Brewery, the Gilmore Car Museum, and the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts. There are also so many fantastic Kalamazoo events to add to your itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Air Zoo?
The Air Zoo is a Smithsonian-affiliated aerospace and science museum in the Kalamazoo area featuring more than 100 historic aircraft and spacecraft, flight simulators, and an indoor amusement park across two connected campuses.
Where is the Air Zoo located?
The Air Zoo sits in Portage, Michigan, just off I-94, about a 15-minute drive from downtown Kalamazoo.
How much does it cost to get into the Kalamazoo Air Zoo?
Ticket pricing varies by age and package, and online tickets aren’t tied to a specific date, so it’s worth checking the Air Zoo’s website for current admission rates before your visit.
How much time should I plan for a visit?
Most guests spend two to four hours at the Air Zoo, though aviation enthusiasts often stay for a full day given the size of the collection.
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.
Lancaster County Attraction
Amish Village Lancaster PA: What to Expect
If Pennsylvania Dutch Country is on your travel list, the Amish Village Lancaster PA is one of the easiest ways to understand how this community lives and works. Set on twelve acres just outside Ronks, the property centers on a guided tour through an 1840 farmhouse and 12 acres of grounds you can explore at your own pace once the tour wraps up.
The house tour runs about 25 minutes and walks you room by room through daily Amish life: no electricity, no modern conveniences, and a rhythm built around faith, family, and farm work. Guides welcome respectful questions, and you’ll come away understanding how this way of life has held largely steady for roughly 300 years.
Afterward, the rest of the Amish Village Lancaster PA is yours to wander: a barn full of animals kids can feed, a one-room schoolhouse showing the contrast with a modern classroom, a working blacksmith shop, and a marketplace stocked with Amish-made crafts, jams, and baked goods like whoopie pies.
For a closer look at the surrounding countryside, the Backroads Bus Tour adds a ninety-minute ride past working farms and horse-drawn buggies you won’t see from the highway. Booking both tours together typically comes with a discounted package rate, and pricing at the Amish Village remains one of the more affordable stops in Lancaster County.
You’ll find the Amish Village at 199 Hartman Bridge Road in Ronks, just outside Strasburg and a short drive from Sight and Sound Theatre, which makes it simple to build a full day around this part of the county. Parking is free, and the location sits right off Route 30. The grounds are level and wheelchair accessible, and the first floor of the farmhouse is as well, though the bus tours are not.
Spring brings baby animals to the barn, summer means mule-drawn equipment out working the fields, fall is a good season for a picnic on the grounds, and winter visits show how Amish families traditionally heat their homes.
Where to Stay: An Amish Country Farm Stay Near the Village
Verdant View Farm, a fifth-generation working farm just minutes away in Paradise, has welcomed overnight guests for more than 50 years as an Amish Country Farm Stay built around hands-on farm life rather than a hotel routine. Guests join morning chores in the barn, milk a cow or collect eggs, then sit down to a family-style breakfast with the family and farmhands who run the farm, featuring grass-fed meats, pastured eggs, and homemade baked goods.
A family-friendly Farmstay means your kids get to experience what life on a farm is like, and the farm’s location near Strasburg puts the Amish Village, the Strasburg Rail Road, and the rest of Lancaster County’s attractions within easy reach. Reserve your stay directly on the farm’s own site to lock in the best rate and confirm your dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Amish Village Lancaster PA worth visiting?
Most first-time visitors find it a useful, respectful introduction to Amish culture rather than something that feels staged.
Where is the Amish Village Lancaster PA located?
It sits at 199 Hartman Bridge Road in Ronks, just outside Strasburg and a short drive from Sight and Sound Theatre.
Is the Amish Village wheelchair accessible?
The grounds and the first floor of the farmhouse are accessible, though the bus tours are not.
What’s the best time of year to visit the Amish Village?
Each season offers something different, from spring’s baby animals to winter’s heating demonstrations, so timing depends on what you’d like to see.
Is there a place to stay near the Amish Village?
Verdant View Farm, an Amish Farm Stay in Paradise, sits just minutes away and offers a working farm experience with morning chores and a family-style breakfast.
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.
Make the Trek From Seattle to Olympic National Park
Best Seattle to Olympic National Park Travel Itinerary
A Seattle to Olympic National Park adventure is one of the most rewarding ways to experience Washington’s natural variety in a short amount of time. Located just across Puget Sound, Olympic National Park is an easy drive from Seattle and offers an impressive mix of landscapes that feel worlds apart from city life. Rainforests, rugged coastline, mountain viewpoints, and peaceful lakes all exist within one park, making it one of the most memorable National Parks near Seattle.
Spring is an especially appealing season for an Olympic National Park getaway. Snowmelt brings waterfalls to life, forest trails glow with new growth, and coastal beaches feel dramatic and uncrowded. Travelers often start by exploring the Hoh Rain Forest, where moss-covered trees and quiet paths create an immersive experience. Hurricane Ridge is another highlight, offering sweeping mountain views and a chance to see lingering snow alongside early seasonal color.
Along the coast, Rialto Beach and Ruby Beach deliver classic Pacific Northwest scenery. Sea stacks, driftwood, and crashing waves make these spots ideal for long walks, tide pooling, and photography. Lake Crescent adds a different kind of beauty, with clear blue water surrounded by forested hills. It is a great place for kayaking, short hikes, or a scenic stop along your drive.
Where to Stay Near Olympic National Park
Choosing the right lodging plays a major role in shaping your Seattle to Olympic National Park adventure. Travel Experience Lodging offers top-rated vacation rentals in Port Angeles, Sequim, and nearby areas, placing guests close to many of the park’s most popular entrances and attractions. These thoughtfully designed homes are ideal for couples, families, groups of friends, and pet-friendly travelers who want comfort after full days outdoors.
Port Angeles provides convenient access to Hurricane Ridge and Lake Crescent, while Sequim offers a quieter setting with easy routes to trailheads and coastal drives. With spacious layouts, well-equipped kitchens, and inviting outdoor spaces, these rentals create a relaxing home base for adventure-focused trips.
From learning fun facts about Olympic National Park to exploring its diverse ecosystems, this destination delivers a truly memorable experience. Start planning your Seattle to Olympic National Park getaway and book a stay that makes the journey just as enjoyable as the destination.
Minnesota Bike Trails in Stillwater
A Rider’s Guide to Stillwater’s Best Routes
If you’re planning a ride through the St. Croix River Valley, Stillwater deserves a spot at the top of your list of Minnesota bike trails. The city connects wooded, paved, and gravel routes that wind past river bluffs, cross a historic bridge, and roll straight into a downtown built for a post-ride meal or a cold drink. Stillwater recently earned a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community designation from the League of American Bicyclists, a recognition that reflects the city’s investment in safe, connected routes for both commuters and recreational riders.
The St. Croix River Crossing Trail Loop is one of the newer additions to the area’s network. This five-mile, multi-use route crosses both the Historic Lift Bridge and the St. Croix Crossing Bridge, linking Minnesota to Wisconsin on the far side of the river. It’s an accessible ride for all skill levels, though the climb on the Wisconsin side will get your heart rate up before you loop back.
Stillwater’s trail system covers roughly 30 miles of connected routes, and the planning behind it shows. Browns Creek State Trail runs about six miles and links directly to the Gateway State Trail, which continues another 18 miles into St. Paul for riders who want a longer ride. That connection runs in both directions, so cyclists coming from the Twin Cities can ride the Gateway State Trail out of St. Paul and end up right in downtown Stillwater.
Between these routes and the river loop, it’s easy to understand why locals are proud to have some of the best bike trails in Minnesota. Pick up a Minnesota bike trails map from one of the shops downtown before you head out. It will help you plan connections that match the distance and terrain you’re after.
For rentals, Herman’s Electric Bikes at Coffee Beans and Bikes is located at 209 S Main Street. E-bikes are rented by the hour, starting at $45 for the first hour, with a discount on weekday rides Monday through Thursday. Walk-ins are welcome, but weekend riders should call ahead to avoid disappointment. Once you drop off the bike, stay for a coffee and something from the bakery case. You deserve it.
Your Waterfront Hotel Base in Stillwater, MN
After a day on the trails, a waterfront hotel in Stillwater, MN gives you a place to rest and relax while enjoying the views you just cycled past. Water Street Inn is located at 101 Water Street South, near both the St. Croix River Crossing Trail Loop and the Browns Creek State Trail. The historic hotel dates back to the 1800s, and many of the guest rooms carry that same Victorian character.
Two on-site restaurants mean you won’t need to go far for dinner. Charlie’s Restaurant and Irish Pub serves Irish-American fare with live music most weekends, and Papa’s Rooftop offers wood-fired pizza and cocktails with views of the river and the Historic Lift Bridge. Book your stay and make Water Street Inn your home base for the ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best bike trails near Stillwater, Minnesota?
The St. Croix River Crossing Trail Loop, Browns Creek State Trail, and Gateway State Trail are the three most popular routes, together forming much of the city’s roughly 30 miles of connected trails.
Is Browns Creek State Trail good for beginners?
Yes. The trail runs about six miles on a mostly flat, paved surface, making it accessible for riders of most skill levels.
Can you bike from Stillwater to St. Paul?
Yes. Browns Creek State Trail connects to the Gateway State Trail, which continues another 18 miles into St. Paul.
Where can I find a Minnesota bike trails map for the Stillwater area?
Several shops in downtown Stillwater carry printed trail maps, and they’re worth picking up before a ride to plan connections based on distance and terrain.
Where can I rent a bike in Stillwater?
Herman’s Electric Bikes at Coffee Beans and Bikes, located at 209 S Main Street, rents e-bikes by the hour and is within walking distance of Water Street Inn.