What To See & Do
Visit Bandon Beach on the Southern Oregon Coast
The Circles in the Sand: A Unique Beach Experience
Imagine arriving at Bandon Beach at sunrise to find the shoreline transformed into a breathtaking work of art, drawn entirely in sand, and gone by afternoon. That’s the magic of Circles in the Sand.
Created by artist Denny Dyke and his team near Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint, this large-scale labyrinth is one of the most memorable things you can do on the Southern Oregon Coast. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has a single winding path: no wrong turns, no decisions, just a quiet 20-minute walk that naturally slows you down and connects you to the coast.
Get there early. Watching the artists sketch intricate patterns directly into the wet sand is a show in itself, and you won’t want to miss it. Before you walk, stop at the dedication circle to write a name in the sand. Then follow the path at your own pace, knowing the tide will gently erase everything by day’s end. It’s temporary. It’s intentional. And it’s completely unforgettable.
Circles in the Sand is just the beginning. You’ll find plenty of things to do on the Southern Oregon Coast: from wandering Old Town’s local shops and restaurants to exploring tide pools, taking in dramatic sea stack views, and strolling miles of wild, accessible shoreline. It’s the perfect place for a family vacation.
Stay Close to the Action at Dog-Friendly Hotels Oregon Coast
Since Circles in the Sand starts at sunrise, staying nearby makes all the difference. Inn at Face Rock sits just steps from the beach via a private trail, so you can walk straight to the event without worrying about parking.
Traveling with your dog? You’re in luck! Inn at Face Rock is one of the most welcoming dog-friendly hotels on the Oregon Coast, with open outdoor spaces and easy beach access that your pup will love just as much as you do.
After the walk, come back and unwind with a dip in the indoor pool or enjoy the complimentary breakfast buffet. It’s the kind of trip that feels both adventurous and restorative, exactly what the Oregon Coast is made for.
Visit One of the Best Small Towns in Illinois
Why Galena Tops the List of Small Towns in Illinois
When travelers start searching for the best small towns in Illinois, Galena consistently rises to the top, and for good reason. This historic Midwest destination offers a rare mix of preserved architecture, walkable charm, and memorable experiences, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. As the most visited small town in Illinois, Galena manages to feel lively without losing its character.
Main Street is the heart of downtown Galena and one of the most engaging places to go in Illinois. Lined with independent boutiques, art galleries, tasting rooms, and locally owned restaurants, this half-mile stretch brings together many of the best things to see in Illinois in one convenient place. History enthusiasts can tour the Ulysses S. Grant Home, while those drawn to the outdoors will find hiking, biking, and scenic overlooks just minutes from downtown.
Galena’s location within the Driftless Area sets it apart from other small towns in Illinois. Rolling hills, wooded bluffs, and panoramic views create scenery that feels unexpected for the Midwest. From hot air balloon rides to Mississippi River cruises and scenic trails, there is no shortage of things to do in Galena for a well-rounded weekend escape.
Where to Stay for the Ultimate Weekend Getaway
Choosing the right place to stay is key when planning visits to the best small towns in Illinois. Where Galena is concerned, don’t miss our Bed and Breakfast in Galena, IL. Our Boutique Inn delivers an experience that matches the town’s reputation. Set inside a restored former county jail, the Inn blends modern comfort with thoughtful design and personalized hospitality.
Guests enjoy spacious suites with spa tubs, fireplaces, and daily multi-course breakfasts. Afternoon wine and small bites, relaxing shared spaces, and an on-site massage room further elevate the stay. Located just steps from Main Street, Jail Hill Inn lets guests experience one of the best small towns in Illinois without driving. Plan your weekend getaway and discover why Galena continues to earn national recognition.
Visit the Humboldt Botanical Gardens this Spring
Best Humboldt Botanical Garden Near the Redwoods
Humboldt Botanical Garden offers couples a distinctive way to experience California’s North Coast, especially in spring when seasonal blooms bring color and variety to the landscape. Located near the College of the Redwoods, this expansive garden highlights the region’s natural character through thoughtfully designed spaces that reflect both native ecosystems and global plant collections.
Spring is an ideal time to visit Humboldt Botanical Garden, as many of the displays are at their most vibrant. Walking paths guide visitors through a range of environments, from the structured Arnot Family Garden of Four Seasons to the colorful plantings in Sara’s Garden and the Dedekam Ornamental Terrace. Dr. Baird’s Rose Garden features a variety of rose types, while the Betty Kuhnel Heather Garden showcases plants well-suited to the coastal climate, including rhododendrons and azaleas.
Beyond the garden, Eureka offers additional experiences that complement your visit. Old Town features preserved Victorian architecture, local galleries, and independent shops. The nearby waterfront offers walking paths and wildlife-viewing opportunities, while attractions like the Sequoia Park Zoo and Redwood Sky Walk bring visitors closer to the region’s towering forests.
Within Humboldt Botanical Garden, guests can also explore spaces focused on conservation and education, including native plant collections and rare species such as the Wollemi pine. Scenic overlooks reveal views of Humboldt Bay and the Pacific Ocean, adding another layer to the experience.
Stay at a Refined Eureka Hotel Near the Redwoods
Pair your visit with a stay at a refined Eureka Hotel to create a well-balanced couples getaway near the Redwoods. Located near Old Town and Humboldt Bay, this setting offers convenient access to the Humboldt Botanical Garden and other things to do in Eureka, CA. After a day exploring the gardens, return to comfortable accommodations that emphasize thoughtful service and a relaxed atmosphere.
For couples planning the best things to do on the Lost Coast, Humboldt Botanical Garden is a lovely destination to add to your itinerary. Visiting in spring offers the added benefit of seasonal color, making it an especially rewarding time to explore and unwind.
Visit The Most Gorgeous Islands in Washington State
Islands in Washington State Near Seattle
If you are looking at islands in Washington State near Seattle for a weekend escape, the San Juan Islands are one of the most convenient and rewarding options. Many travelers start with the drive north to Anacortes, then board the San Juan Island Ferry for a scenic crossing that sets the tone for the trip. Because the ferry routes link San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island, it is easy to plan a focused weekend on one island or build in simple island hopping.
If you’re looking for bustling activity hubs while visiting these islands in Washington state, head to San Juan Island. There, you’ll find Friday Harbor offering a walkable waterfront lined with restaurants, galleries, marinas, and the Whale Museum. It’s certainly one of the more popular islands in Washington State. From town, you can enjoy all the best things to do on San Juan Island, including joining a whale watching tour or heading out for shore-based viewing at Lime Kiln Point Lighthouse, a well-known landmark with excellent coastal vantage points. For history, American Camp and English Camp provide a grounded look at the Pig War boundary dispute and the landscapes that shaped it.
Orcas Island is another popular stop in these islands in Washington State. Orcas is known for varied terrain and elevated viewpoints. Moran State Park is a centerpiece, and the climb up Mount Constitution is one of the region’s most memorable hikes, with sweeping views over the Salish Sea on clear days. In Eastsound, you can browse local art at places like Crow Valley Gallery, then break for a meal before continuing your drive around the island.
Lopez Island is popular with cyclists thanks to quieter roads and gentler grades, plus coastal stops such as Spencer Spit State Park and Shark Reef Sanctuary. Shaw Island is the quietest of the four, with minimal development, a single general store near the ferry landing, and shoreline access at Shaw County Park that suits travelers who want a slower pace.
A San Juan Island hotel that keeps the weekend easy
Staying within walking distance of the Friday Harbor ferry dock simplifies arrival day and makes it easier to spend more time exploring. Our San Juan Island hotel offers well-appointed guest rooms, spacious suites, and private cottages that can accommodate families and dogs. Breakfast is delivered to your room each morning, and a concierge team helps with details such as whale-watching reservations, restaurant recommendations, kayak outfitters, and scenic drives. Book directly to keep your weekend plans smooth from the first ferry to the final sunset.
Visit the Sacred Santuario de Chimayo in New Mexico
Best Santuario de Chimayo Day Trip From Santa Fe
A Santa Fe vacation offers couples and curious travelers the chance to explore art, history, and culture together in a way that feels personal and lasting. One of the most meaningful Santa Fe day trips takes you north to Santuario de Chimayo, a site that continues to shape spiritual and cultural traditions across Northern New Mexico. Whether this is your first visit or a return journey, Santuario de Chimayo offers a unique getaway experience rooted in heritage, faith, and place.
Located about 30 minutes from Santa Fe, Chimayo, NM feels worlds away. The drive from Santa Fe to Chimayo passes historic farming villages and high desert landscapes that define the Southwest. Arriving at the Chimayo church, the centuries-old adobe architecture and quiet surroundings immediately set the tone for reflection and discovery.
The history of Santuario de Chimayo dates back to the early 1800s and centers on a long-held story of a glowing crucifix discovered in the earth. Over time, el Santuario de Chimayo holy dirt became an important part of spiritual tradition. Many visitors come to learn how to use holy dirt from Chimayo respectfully, while others simply observe the rituals that continue to take place every day.
The Chimayo pilgrimage remains one of the most significant religious journeys in the region, particularly during Holy Week. Thousands walk from Santa Cruz de la Cañada to Santuario de Chimayo as an act of devotion, gratitude, or remembrance. Outside of pilgrimage season, visitors can still witness quiet moments of faith and connect with the living traditions that make this site so meaningful.
There are plenty of things to do in Chimayo beyond the church itself. Stop by Ortega’s Weaving Shop or Centinela Traditional Arts, enjoy a classic Northern New Mexico meal at Rancho de Chimayo, or take time to explore the surrounding valley for photography and scenic drives.
Stay at a Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast After Your Chimayo Visit
After a day spent at Santuario de Chimayo, returning to a welcoming Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast adds depth to the experience. Our inn offers thoughtfully designed suites, local art, and a calm atmosphere that invites you to slow down. With a central location near the top things to do in Santa Fe, inviting patios, and a gourmet breakfast each morning, it is easy to recharge while staying connected to the city. Plan your stay and experience one of the most rewarding Santa Fe day trips paired with a place that feels like home.
Visit the Sandwich Heritage Museums and Gardens on the Cape
Best Things to Do at Heritage Museums and Gardens
Cape Cod offers no shortage of memorable experiences, but a visit to Heritage Museums and Gardens stands out as one of the most rewarding ways to spend a relaxed weekend in Sandwich. This thoughtfully curated destination blends gardens, museum collections, and open-air spaces into an experience that feels distinctly Cape Cod while offering something refreshingly different from a beach-only itinerary.
With so many things to do on Cape Cod, it’s easy to pack your days full. Start your morning exploring nearby seaside villages, browsing local galleries, or grabbing coffee near the harbor. Later, trade the shoreline for the peaceful paths of Heritage Gardens, where the pace naturally slows, and the scenery invites you to linger.
Once inside Heritage Museums and Gardens, the scale and variety of the property immediately impress. Spanning more than 100 acres, the grounds feature winding walkways, shaded corners, and vibrant seasonal plantings that change throughout the year. Eight distinct gardens showcase everything from the Cape Cod Hydrangea Display Garden, with more than 150 varieties, to the Dexter Rhododendron Garden and the serene Flume and Daylily Garden. Each area feels intentional, offering a different perspective of the landscape.
Beyond the gardens, the museum spaces add depth to the visit. Exhibits highlight regional art, local history, and fascinating collections that reflect southeastern New England’s heritage. Guests can explore rotating exhibits, view historic automobiles, and enjoy iconic attractions like the 1908 Looff Carousel, making this one of the most engaging things to do in Sandwich.
Stay at a Cape Cod Bed and Breakfast for the Perfect Weekend
After a full day at Heritage Museums and Gardens, returning to a Cape Cod bed and breakfast completes the experience. Outdoor spaces designed for relaxation, inviting guest suites, and thoughtful amenities create an easy rhythm for your weekend. Whether you spend the evening by the fire, enjoying the gardens, or planning the next day’s adventures, staying nearby lets you make the most of your time on the coast.
A weekend visit to Heritage Museums and Gardens pairs perfectly with a stay on Cape Cod, offering a blend of culture, beauty, and unhurried moments you’ll remember long after you return home.
Visit the Sequim Farmers’ Market on Your Weekend Getaway
Best Sequim Farmers Market Weekend in the Pacific Northwest
The Sequim Farmers Market offers a defining experience of the Olympic Peninsula, bringing together local agriculture, artisan goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere from spring through fall. Set in downtown Sequim, the market runs on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., creating an ideal starting point for a well-planned weekend. Visitors can browse colorful vendor booths filled with seasonal produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items while enjoying the consistent sunshine that makes this region of the Pacific Northwest distinct.
Exploring the Sequim Farmers Market introduces visitors to the people behind the region’s agricultural success. Tables feature rotating selections of fruits and vegetables, from early-season berries and greens to late-summer tomatoes, squash, and herbs. Prepared food vendors offer pastries, breads, and ready-to-eat options that make for a relaxed morning meal. Artisan goods such as pottery, jewelry, and woodwork add variety, giving the market the feel of both a food destination and an outdoor gallery.
Beyond the market, there are many things to do in Sequim that complement a weekend visit. Nearby Sunny Farms Country Store provides year-round access to local produce, meats, and seafood, while Nash’s Farm Stand highlights the reputation of Farms in Sequim with its grains, vegetables, and responsibly raised products. Outdoor experiences are equally accessible, with Dungeness Bay offering kayaking and shoreline walks, and Olympic National Park providing easy access to mountains and coastal scenery. Downtown Sequim adds to the experience with local shops, cafes, and seasonal events that reflect the region’s character.
Hotel in Sequim
Choosing the right Hotel in Sequim enhances the overall experience of a farmers market weekend. A waterfront stay along Dungeness Bay offers direct beach access and views of the surrounding landscape, creating a natural extension of the day’s activities. Guests can unwind in a hot tub, relax in a jetted tub, or enjoy a private porch overlooking the shoreline.
Thoughtful amenities, such as in-room kitchens, make it easy to prepare meals using fresh market finds, while optional add-ons like breakfast delivery or romance packages add convenience and personalization. Offering, pet-friendly accommodations and access to kayak or paddleboard rentals to enjoy at a private beach. Booking a stay nearby allows visitors to fully enjoy both the Sequim Farmers Market and the best things to do in Sequim throughout a weekend getaway from Seattle.
Visit the Top Hood River Lavender Farms This Summer
The Best Hood River Lavender Farms to Visit this Summer
Summer in the Columbia River Gorge brings a vivid display of color, and Hood River Lavender Farms are among the most anticipated seasonal highlights. By late June and early July, fields across the region reach peak bloom, filling the landscape with rows of vibrant purple and a distinct, calming fragrance. Visiting these lavender farms offers a memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest while enjoying one of the most popular things to do in the Columbia River Gorge.
Several lavender farms Hood River visitors seek out offer more than scenic walks. Guests can browse farm shops featuring handcrafted goods, culinary lavender products, and locally made gifts. At Hood River Lavender Farm, open fields and sweeping views create an inviting setting for a relaxed afternoon. Nearby, Stave and Stone Winery provides an elevated perspective of the surrounding landscape, pairing lavender views with a beautiful outdoor tasting space.
Van Gogh Lavender Farm welcomes visitors during the summer bloom season with vibrant fields and a focused, small-scale farm experience. At Hope Ranch Lavender Farm, guests can walk through rows of lavender framed by views of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams, with opportunities to gather fresh bundles and browse the farmstand. Glacier View Lavender Farm, located along the Hood River Fruit Loop, offers a convenient stop between orchards and other agricultural experiences in the area.
Luxury Cabins Near Hood River
A visit to a lavender farm near Portland pairs naturally with a well-located place to stay. A Cabin in Washington State near Hood River provides convenient access to the Gorge while offering a refined lodging experience. Located close to hiking trails, river viewpoints, and local towns, these cabins make it easy to explore the region at your own pace.
After a day spent visiting Hood River Lavender Farms or exploring all the things to do near Hood River, returning to a private cabin offers a comfortable and quiet retreat. Summer is an ideal time for a couple’s getaway in the Pacific Northwest, with long days, clear views, and a wide range of outdoor activities. Plan your visit around peak bloom and secure your stay to fully experience this seasonal highlight.
Walk Across the Iconic Stillwater Lift Bridge
Explore the Stillwater Lift Bridge from Downtown
The Stillwater Lift Bridge stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in the Midwest, offering both historical significance and a scenic outdoor experience. Spanning the St. Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin, this historic lift bridge has evolved from a vital transportation route into a pedestrian-friendly attraction. Today, it remains central to many of the top things to do in Stillwater.
Originally constructed in 1931, the Stillwater Bridge was designed with a vertical lift to allow river traffic to pass beneath. Its engineering and longevity earned it a place on the National Register of Historic Places. Following a multi-year restoration, the bridge reopened in 2020 as a space dedicated to walkers and cyclists, providing visitors with a new way to experience the river and the surrounding landscape.
Walking across the Stillwater Lift Bridge is one of the most accessible and rewarding activities in downtown Stillwater. Clearly marked lanes allow pedestrians and cyclists to move comfortably across the span while taking in views of the St. Croix River and the historic riverfront. Midway across the bridge, visitors can pause for photos that capture both the water and the town skyline. During the warmer months, the bridge lift remains in operation, offering the chance to watch the structure rise for passing boats.
Beyond the bridge, visitors can extend their adventure along the St. Croix Crossing Trail Loop, a multi-mile route that connects Minnesota and Wisconsin with scenic viewpoints throughout. Lowell Park, located at the base of the bridge, offers open green space for relaxing along the riverfront. Additional things to do in Stillwater include river cruises, live music, fantastic restaurants, and exploring the many independently owned businesses throughout downtown.
Stay at the Historic Stillwater Hotels
Where you stay enhances your visit. The Water Street Inn is one of the most distinctive Stillwater hotels, located directly along the river and steps from the lift bridge. Its central location makes it easy to explore downtown Stillwater, from shops and restaurants to nearby outdoor attractions.
With its combination of history, accessibility, and scenic views, the Stillwater Lift Bridge remains one of the most memorable historic attractions in the region. Whether you are visiting for a day or planning a longer stay, it offers a central starting point for experiencing everything Stillwater has to offer.