What To See & Do
Ride the Galena River Trail for a Scenic Day of Adventure
Explore the Galena River Trail From Our Inn
The Galena River Trail offers one of the most accessible and rewarding ways to experience the natural beauty and historic character of this Midwest destination. Running alongside the Galena River and within easy reach of downtown, this well-maintained path is ideal for travelers looking to incorporate outdoor exploration into their list of things to do in Galena.
Beginning near the Meeker Street Bridge and just steps from our Boutique lodging, the Galena River Trail features a crushed-limestone surface suitable for walking, biking, and casual hiking. The route initially follows the edge of town, providing views of historic buildings and the surrounding landscape before transitioning into quieter stretches defined by wetlands, wildflowers, and limestone bluffs.
Extending approximately nine miles one way, this Galena trail invites visitors to experience the unique terrain of the Driftless Region. The area’s rolling hills and river valleys create a varied backdrop that distinguishes Galena hiking from other Midwest destinations. Along the way, the trail connects to additional routes, including the Buehler Trail and the Galena Junction Trail, offering expanded opportunities for exploration.
Cyclists can also enjoy the route as a Galena bike trail, with options to continue toward Chestnut Mountain Resort or connect to other regional paths. Bike rentals are available locally for those who want to explore more of the trail network.
Galena Lodging Near the Trail
Staying nearby enhances the overall experience, especially when accommodations are within walking distance of the trail. At our upscale Galena Lodging, guests can easily access the Galena River Trail while enjoying thoughtfully designed suites and outdoor spaces. Patios and private decks provide a quiet setting to unwind after a day of activity, while optional spa services, including in-room or on-site massages, add another layer of comfort.
Whether you are planning a short visit or an extended stay, the Galena River Trail remains a central highlight of relaxed weekend getaways at Jail Hill Inn, offering a straightforward way to experience both the natural environment and the town’s historic appeal.
Ride the Strasburg Rail Road
The Best Lancaster Train Ride for Family Fun in Pennsylvania
Some of the best family memories are made when you slow down, look out the window, and let the world roll by. A Lancaster train ride on the historic Strasburg Railroad does exactly that: whisking families through rolling farmland and open countryside aboard authentic steam-powered locomotives and beautifully restored wooden cars.
As the train winds past Amish farms, crop fields, and quiet country roads, kids and parents alike get a glimpse into a way of life rooted in tradition, craftsmanship, and community. It’s one of those rare experiences that feels both exciting and peaceful at once. For families coming from the city, it’s a refreshing change of pace and one of the most beloved things to do in Lancaster County.
The adventure doesn’t stop at the station. Just across the street, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania invites the whole family to explore preserved locomotives and fascinating exhibits that bring the golden age of American rail travel to life. Together, these two stops make for a wonderfully full and memorable day.
A Farm Stay the Whole Family Will Love
When the day winds down, come home to Verdant View Farm: a cozy, welcoming Bed and Breakfast on a working farm in Lancaster County. Wake up to a hearty farm-fresh breakfast, help with the morning chores, and let the kids make friends with the animals.
There’s something special about trading the rush of everyday life for the gentle rhythms of a working farm. Guests of all ages leave this farm stay in Pennsylvania feeling refreshed, grateful, and a little closer to one another.
Whether you’re riding the rails, exploring local museums, or gathering around the breakfast table, a Lancaster County getaway offers something increasingly rare: quality time that everyone in the family will treasure. Come discover why so many families keep coming back to this family-friendly Bed and Breakfast near Lancaster.
Road Trip to Beautiful Woodstock, Vermont
Best Things to Do in Woodstock, Vermont for a Getaway
Few destinations capture the character of a classic New England village quite like Woodstock, Vermont. Known for its covered bridges, historic architecture, local shops, and mountain scenery, Woodstock is one of the most popular small towns in Vermont for visitors seeking a memorable weekend escape. Whether you are interested in outdoor recreation, local history, scenic drives, or cultural attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Woodstock, Vermont throughout every season.
A visit often begins in downtown Woodstock, VT, where independent boutiques, bookstores, galleries, cafés, and restaurants line the picturesque village streets. Situated along the Ottauquechee River, the downtown area offers a walkable setting that showcases the charm and character that have made Woodstock a favorite Vermont destination.
Among the most popular Vermont attractions is Billings Farm & Museum, a working dairy farm that highlights the region’s agricultural heritage through exhibits, farm animals, seasonal events, and locally inspired experiences. Nearby, Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park offers visitors an opportunity to explore hiking trails, tour the historic mansion, and learn about conservation efforts that shaped Vermont’s landscape.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find no shortage of things to do near Woodstock, VT. Scenic back roads reveal covered bridges, historic barns, maple syrup farms, and sweeping mountain views. During foliage season, these drives become some of the most photographed routes in New England. Hiking opportunities abound as well, including the popular trail to the summit of Mount Tom.
Quaint Lodging Near Woodstock
After a day spent exploring Woodstock, relax at Echo Lake Inn, a historic boutique hotel in Ludlow, VT, located a short drive away. At our lodging near Woodstock, guests enjoy comfortable accommodations, distinctive guest rooms, and convenient access to both Woodstock and the Okemo Valley. On-site amenities include kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, tennis courts, pickleball courts, lawn games, a seasonal pool, and a jacuzzi.
Additional highlights near Woodstock include Sugarbush Farm, where visitors can sample Vermont cheese and maple syrup, Appalachian Trail Adventures for guided outdoor excursions, the Woodstock Farmer’s Market, and the extensive mountain biking trails maintained by the Woodstock Area Mountain Bike Association. Before returning to your accommodations, consider a stop at Quechee Gorge, one of the most impressive natural landmarks in Vermont.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer mountain vacation, Woodstock offers a rewarding combination of outdoor adventure, local culture, and timeless New England appeal.
Romancing the Monarch
Monarch Butterfly Festival: A Fall Getaway Worth Planning Around
Every fall, a small Hood County garden becomes a rest stop for one of nature’s long distance travelers. Romancing the Monarch, the annual Monarch Butterfly Festival in Granbury, draws visitors who want to watch thousands of orange and black butterflies pause on their way south to Mexico. It has become one of the more anticipated fall dates on the Granbury calendar.
If you are building a getaway around the Monarch Butterfly Festival, you are also likely looking for other things to do in Granbury, TX to round out the weekend. The historic square with boutique shops, restaurants, and live music sits within walking distance of the garden.
What to Expect at the Monarch Butterfly Festival
The festival takes place at the Lake Granbury Master Gardeners Demonstration Garden on West Pearl Street, typically on the first Saturday of October in the early afternoon. General admission is free. Inside the garden, volunteers plant only the host and nectar species monarchs rely on, and guests can learn to tell a monarch from a look-alike, watch volunteers net and tag butterflies for Monarch Watch, and, for a small registration fee, take part in a live butterfly release. Arrive close to opening if you want the shortest line for the release and the best light for photos, since the garden is lovely but not large.
Granbury’s Spot on the Monarch Butterfly Migration Route
Granbury sits directly on the monarch butterfly migration route between Canada and central Mexico, which is why the town is a reliable fall waypoint for the species. Local gardeners and civic leaders have spent years planting milkweed and pollinator habitat across Hood County and partnering with Monarch Watch to track the monarch butterfly migration in Texas as it happens. The festival is the public celebration of that quieter, year-round conservation work, not a one-off event.
Your Home Base for a Fall Festival Getaway in Granbury, TX
A festival like this deserves a comfortable landing spot, and Inn on Lake Granbury, puts you close enough to walk into the action downtown while still giving you a quiet lakefront retreat to return to each evening. Our rooms, suites, and private guest houses sit on three acres along the water, with an award-winning gourmet breakfast each morning and chef’s choice appetizers and wine delivered to your room each evening. As a Bed and Breakfast in Granbury TX built as a romantic getaway and adults only retreat we make it simple to spend your day chasing butterflies and your evening unwinding by the saltwater pool. Check availability and reserve your stay.
More Fall Festivals to Round Out Your Trip
October keeps going after the last butterfly is released. Granbury’s Oktoberfest fills the historic square the first weekend of the month with food, music, and a biergarten atmosphere just a short walk from the garden. A few weeks later, the Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts brings juried artists, a Texas wine stroll, and live music back to the square.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Monarch Butterfly Festival in Granbury, TX?
The festival is typically held on the first Saturday of October in the early afternoon at the Lake Granbury Master Gardeners Demonstration Garden. Confirm the current year’s date before finalizing travel plans.
Is the Monarch Butterfly Festival free to attend?
General admission is free. A small registration fee applies if you want to take part in the live butterfly release.
What is the monarch butterfly migration route through Texas?
Monarchs pass through Texas as part of their broader migration route between Canada and central Mexico, and Granbury sits directly along that corridor, which is part of why the town has become a fall gathering point for the species.
What other fall festivals happen in Granbury around the same time?
Granbury’s Oktoberfest and the Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts both take place on the historic square in October.
Where should I stay for a fall festival getaway in Granbury?
A lakefront property within walking distance of downtown, such as Inn on Lake Granbury, lets you enjoy the festival and the square without needing a car for the weekend.
Book Your Fall Festival Getaway Today
A trip built around the Monarch Butterfly Festival is a trip built around Granbury at its best, and there is no better way to close out the day than at a lakefront Bed and Breakfast in Granbury, TX. Just under two hours from Dallas or Fort Worth, Inn on Lake Granbury turns a festival day trip into a full getaway, complete with a saltwater pool, garden views of its own, and the kind of hospitality that makes a fall weekend memorable. Reserve your room today.
Sandia Peak Tramway: One of Albuquerque’s Best Attractions
Best Sandia Peak Tramway Experience in Albuquerque
Few Albuquerque activities compare to the Sandia Peak Tramway. Rising from the desert floor to the summit of the Sandia Mountains, this iconic ride delivers a perspective that completely reshapes how you see New Mexico. In just fifteen minutes, you transition from high desert terrain to alpine forest, arriving at Sandia Peak more than 10,000 feet above sea level.
The Sandia Peak Aerial Tramway spans nearly three miles, making it one of the longest in North America. As the Sandia Tram climbs along the western face of the mountains, the Rio Grande Valley unfolds below, the Albuquerque skyline sharpens in the distance, and the vast Southwest landscape stretches toward the horizon. Many visitors plan their ascent near sunset, when Sandia Crest glows in shades of pink and amber, creating unforgettable photo opportunities.
At the summit, temperatures can be up to thirty degrees cooler than at the base, so bringing a light jacket is wise. Observation decks offer panoramic views, and outdoor enthusiasts can explore hiking trails ranging from casual walks to more challenging routes. In winter, the nearby Sandia Peak Ski Area adds snow sports to the list of things to do in Albuquerque, NM.
Dining at Ten 3 elevates the experience even further. With sweeping mountain views, it is a memorable setting for a special evening. For a relaxed option, the bar and lounge offer lighter fare with equally impressive scenery.
Refined Albuquerque Bed and Breakfast Lodging
After your time at Sandia Peak, return to the charm of Old Town and stay at our Albuquerque Bed and Breakfast. Located centrally in historic Albuquerque, the Bottger Mansion offers an alternative to standard hotels with personalized hospitality and elegant guest rooms. Guests can walk to galleries, museums, and restaurants, then unwind in a setting that reflects the Southwest’s character.
Pairing the best Sandia Peak Tramway experience in Albuquerque with thoughtfully located lodging creates a truly unique getaway. Reserve your room and discover the city from new heights.
See a Show at the Latchis Theater in Vermont
Best Latchis Theater in Downtown Brattleboro for Couples
The Latchis Theater has been the cultural centerpiece of downtown Brattleboro since 1938, offering couples one of the most memorable things to do in Southern Vermont. Built as a “Town Within a Town,” this Art Deco landmark continues to anchor the creative spirit of the region while delivering an elevated night out. From the moment you step inside the Latchis Theater, the experience feels special. Decorative columns, sweeping balconies, rich red velvet seating, and a brilliant blue ceiling adorned with zodiac symbols create a setting that feels cinematic before the show even begins.
Programming is equally impressive. With four theaters and the largest movie screen in Southern Vermont, the Latchis features popular releases, independent films, and timeless classics. Couples also enjoy special broadcasts such as the Met Opera Live in HD, National Theatre productions from Britain, and Exhibition on Screen presentations showcasing the world’s greatest museums. Live concerts, comedy shows, and community performances round out a dynamic calendar that makes this venue one of the top things to do in Brattleboro.
An evening here is the perfect addition to exploring downtown Brattleboro. Browse independent bookstores, enjoy craft cocktails, or reserve a table for a romantic dinner just steps away. Everything is walkable, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated date-night atmosphere.
Stay at a Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast Nearby
After an unforgettable evening at the Latchis Theater, retreat to a refined Brattleboro Bed and Breakfast just minutes from downtown. The Inn on Putney Road offers six luxury guest suites set within a historic mansion surrounded by award-winning gardens. Couples can unwind in beautifully appointed rooms with inviting sitting areas, stroll through private grounds, or access the nearby Retreat Trails directly from the property. In the morning, a gourmet breakfast is always included with your stay.
For couples seeking meaningful things to do in Southern Vermont, combine culture in downtown Brattleboro with an intimate stay designed for connection. Reserve your room and plan your escape today.
See the Best of Vermont’s Fall Colors This Season
A Front-Row Seat to Vermont Fall Colors
Vermont fall colors begin their transformation in early September, when the native sugar maples across the state start turning from green to gold, orange, and deep crimson. The display builds gradually over several weeks, moving from the higher elevations down into the valleys, and it typically holds its peak through early to mid-October. Few places capture that shift better than the Mad River Valley, where rolling hills, working farms, and forested peaks create some of the most photographed foliage scenery in the state.
At West Hill House B&B in Warren, guests find themselves inside that scenery rather than just passing through it. A row of sugar maples lines our property, and the porch and garden paths offer views of the changing hillside without ever leaving the grounds.
When Do Vermont Fall Colors Peak?
There is no single date every year, since Vermont’s foliage timeline depends on temperature and rainfall. In the Mad River Valley, color typically starts appearing in early September at higher elevations and moves into the valley through late September and October. Early to mid-October is usually the strongest window for peak color here, though it shifts slightly from year to year. Checking a current Vermont foliage map before you travel is the best way to time a trip around the display.
Scenic Drives and Trails for Leaf Peeping
The 36-mile Mad River Byway threads through Middlesex, Moretown, Waitsfield, Fayston, Warren, and Granville, passing covered bridges, farmland, and mountain views along the way. It is an easy half-day route for anyone who wants a relaxed introduction to the valley. For a shorter loop with more stops, the Bragg Hill Loop covers classic Vermont countryside in less time, while the West Hill Loop climbs toward Lincoln Gap for some of the more dramatic mountain views in the area.
Hikers can pick up a section of the Long Trail, which runs 272 miles through the Green Mountains, or head up Camel’s Hump for summit views over a valley full of color. Cyclists often choose the five-mile Moretown Common Road loop, and for something different entirely, a glider flight with Sugarbush Soaring puts the whole canopy below you.
A Home Base for Your Fall Getaway
West Hill House B&B sits on a quiet hillside just outside the village of Warren, close enough to reach the Mad River Byway or Sugarbush Resort in minutes, but removed from the traffic that builds up along the busiest foliage routes during peak weekends. Guests can spend the morning on a scenic drive and come back to a private pond, on-site massage, and gardens that are still showing color of their own.
Breakfast leans into the season with apples, cranberries, and pumpkin worked into the morning menu, and afternoons bring fresh-baked treats alongside a rotating selection of Vermont wine and craft beer. With nine guest rooms and a Select Registry designation, the inn is built around the kind of unhurried hospitality that fall in Vermont calls for.
Fall books up quickly across the Mad River Valley, so reserving a room ahead of peak season matters more here than almost any other time of year. If you are planning a fall getaway built around Vermont’s foliage, book your stay at West Hill House B&B and settle into a home base that is already surrounded by color.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is peak fall foliage in Vermont?
Peak foliage in the Mad River Valley usually falls in early to mid-October, though the exact timing shifts each year based on weather.
Where can you see the best fall colors in Vermont?
The Mad River Byway, Bragg Hill Loop, and West Hill Loop offer some of the most scenic drives, while Camel’s Hump and the Long Trail provide rewarding hiking views.
Where should I stay in Vermont for fall foliage?
The Mad River Valley near Warren puts you close to scenic byways and hiking trails while staying removed from the busiest traffic. West Hill House B&B offers a quiet hillside setting with views of the season right from the property.
See Tiffany Glass at the Woodson Art Museum This Winter
Best Things to See at Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum
The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum stands out as one of the most celebrated cultural attractions in the Midwest, earning national recognition for its exhibitions and welcoming approach to art. As one of the most respected art museums in Wisconsin, it offers a compelling blend of contemporary works, permanent collections, and seasonal exhibitions that draw visitors back year after year.
This season, the museum debuts a remarkable Tiffany Glass exhibition that adds even more reason to plan a visit to Wausau. Featuring a curated selection from the renowned Neustadt Collection, the exhibition includes more than 45 leaded-glass lamps, stained-glass windows, and hanging shades. The craftsmanship and color variation found in these Tiffany Stained Glass works highlight the innovation of Louis Comfort Tiffany, whose studio transformed American decorative arts by allowing glass itself to create depth, movement, and light.
In addition to the Tiffany Glass showcase, companion exhibitions explore Victorian and Art Nouveau glass, offering insight into how design tastes evolved over time. Together, these galleries create one of the most visually engaging museum experiences currently on display in the Midwest and firmly place the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum among the top art museums in Wisconsin.
Beyond the museum walls, there are plenty more things to do in Wausau, WI. Downtown shops, local dining, and winter recreation like skiing at Granite Peak, snowshoeing, and scenic river walks make the area ideal for a unique getaway centered around culture and exploration.
Where to Stay Near the Woodson Art Museum
The Stewart Inn offers a stay that complements the creativity and character found at the Woodson Art Museum. As one of the most distinctive hotels in Wausau, WI, this boutique property combines historic architecture with modern comfort. Thoughtfully designed guest rooms, inviting common spaces, and warm hospitality make it an ideal home base after a day of museum hopping or winter adventures.
Located just steps from downtown Wausau, our Boutique Wausau Hotel allows guests to enjoy the best of Wausau on foot. If your plans include discovering Tiffany Glass, exploring Wisconsin art museums, and enjoying the city at a relaxed pace, this elevated stay completes the experience. Book your unique getaway and see why this corner of Wisconsin continues to surprise and inspire.
Sequim Farms for Berry Picking and More
Best Sequim Farms for Berry Picking and Local Finds
Sequim is a coastal setting where open farmland meets mountain views and extended summer sunshine supports a thriving agricultural scene. Visiting Sequim farms is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the region, especially during a summer weekend when fields are active and local stands are fully stocked. From U-pick farms to lavender fields, these destinations highlight some of the best things to do in Sequim.
Many Sequim farms emphasize sustainable growing practices, including crop rotation and organic soil methods, which result in high-quality seasonal products. Visitors can purchase fresh eggs, vegetables, small-batch cheeses, and handmade goods directly from growers. This direct connection offers insight into how food is cultivated and prepared throughout the region. The Sequim Farmers’ Market brings all these farms together in one location on Saturdays in late spring through the fall.
U-pick farms are especially popular in summer. Berry picking near Sequim draws visitors looking to harvest strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries straight from the field. Graysmarsh Farm remains a well-known stop for U-pick berries, along with fresh baked goods and produce available onsite. Smaller operations like Chi’s Farm offer a variety of vegetables grown with greenhouse techniques, extending availability beyond typical harvest seasons.
Lavender farms also play a central role in the local landscape. The Lavender Connection, Jardin du Soleil Lavender Farm provide access to blooming fields during peak season, along with curated selections of oils, culinary items, and handcrafted goods. For a more traditional roadside stop, Sunny Farms Sequim offers a classic farm stand experience with a wide range of seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Where to Stay Near Sequim Farms
After a day spent exploring Sequim farms, return to comfortable accommodations that keep you close to both farmland and coastline. Juan de Fuca Cottages offers a well-rounded lodging experience with private cottages, spacious rooms, and thoughtful amenities designed for a relaxing stay. Guests can unwind in a hot tub, enjoy a jetted tub, or take in views from a private porch.
Set along Dungeness Bay, the property includes access to a private beach, walking trails, and options for kayaking or paddleboarding. Additional features such as breakfast delivery, pet-friendly accommodations, and full kitchens in select units allow guests to tailor their stay. This combination of location and amenities makes it a practical choice for a summer weekend centered around Sequim farms and coastal exploration.