What To See & Do
A Three Day Itinerary for a Couples’ Getaway
What to Do in Albuquerque
Set against the Sandia Mountains, Albuquerque offers Native American heritage, Spanish influence, and a distinct local character that shapes its most memorable Albuquerque attractions. Over three days, planning what to do in Albuquerque offers outdoor exploration, cultural depth, and time to simply enjoy each other’s company.
Begin your first day with a walk along the Paseo del Bosque Trail, where cottonwood-lined paths follow the Rio Grande. Nearby, the Rio Grande Nature Center provides an introduction to the region’s wildlife, especially for birdwatching. In the afternoon, explore the Albuquerque Museum to gain insight into the city’s art and history, or visit the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center for a meaningful look at Pueblo culture. As evening arrives, Old Town Albuquerque becomes one of the best places to see in New Mexico with its historic plaza, galleries, and patio dining.
Day two centers on one of the most iconic answers to what to do in Albuquerque: a sunrise hot air balloon ride. Known for its ideal flying conditions, Albuquerque offers a perspective that is both expansive and memorable. Afterward, spend your afternoon visiting the ABQ BioPark or browsing local galleries before heading to the Sandia Peak Tramway. The ascent reveals sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, and dinner at the summit creates a well-timed close to the day.
On your final day, explore Nob Hill, where Route 66 history meets a creative local scene filled with shops and dining options. Whether you continue discovering places to visit in New Mexico or enjoy a final patio dinner, this three-day itinerary captures the most rewarding things to do in Albuquerque while leaving room to return.
Places to Stay in Albuquerque
Where you stay shapes the entire experience, and Bottger Mansion stands out among places to stay in Albuquerque. Located near Old Town, this historic Bed and Breakfast offers convenient access to top Albuquerque tourist attractions while offering a quiet retreat in the evenings. Guests can expect a gourmet breakfast each morning and a beautiful setting with genuine hospitality.
A Unique Glass Museum to Visit on Cape Cod
Best Things to See at the Sandwich Glass Museum
The Sandwich Glass Museum is one of the most distinctive museums on Cape Cod, offering visitors a closer look at the artistry and innovation that shaped the region’s creative history. Located in the historic town of Sandwich, this glass museum celebrates the legacy of the Boston and Sandwich Glass Company and its lasting influence on American design. For travelers looking for unique things to do on Cape Cod, the museum delivers an experience that blends history, craftsmanship, and visual impact.
Inside the Sandwich Glass Museum, galleries showcase an impressive collection of pressed glass, tableware, lamps, and rare decorative pieces. Each exhibit highlights how Sandwich glass evolved from functional household items into works admired for their color, detail, and design. Rotating exhibitions ensure repeat visits feel fresh, featuring both historic glass and contemporary interpretations of the craft.
One of the most popular attractions at the Sandwich Glass Museum is the live glassblowing demonstration. Watching skilled artisans shape molten glass into finished pieces gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the precision and creativity behind each object. The demonstrations offer a behind-the-scenes look at techniques that have been passed down for generations, making this glass museum a standout among Cape Cod museums.
Where to Stay Near the Sandwich Glass Museum
After exploring museums on Cape Cod, having a comfortable place to return to makes the experience even better. Our Cape Cod lodging in Harwich offers a convenient home base within easy driving distance of the Sandwich Glass Museum and other top attractions. The boutique inn combines thoughtful design, modern amenities, and welcoming hospitality, making it ideal for travelers who want easy access to the coast while enjoying a relaxed setting.
The Sandwich Glass Museum is open throughout the year, with hours that vary seasonally. Guests can begin their visit with a short orientation film before moving through the exhibits at their own pace. Whether you are exploring heritage glass, learning about glassmaking techniques, or planning a day filled with Cape Cod museums, this museum remains one of the most rewarding things to do on Cape Cod. It is an engaging stop that adds depth and creativity to any coastal getaway.
Amish Communities near Reading PA
Best Amish Country Pennsylvania Attractions and Farms
Few destinations offer the opportunity to experience living history quite like Amish Country Pennsylvania. Just a short drive from Reading Pennsylvania, visitors can explore scenic farmland, historic communities, and traditions that have remained part of daily life for generations. From bustling farmers’ markets to quiet country roads lined with Amish farms, this region offers a unique glimpse into Pennsylvania Dutch culture and heritage.
Many people associate Pennsylvania Amish Country with Lancaster County, but the story begins much closer to Reading. The Northkill Amish Settlement in Berks County was established in the mid-1700s and became the first Amish community in North America. Its history helped shape the Amish communities that later flourished throughout Lancaster County, creating one of the most recognized cultural regions in the United States.
Today, visitors can easily spend a day exploring the towns of Ephrata, Lititz, Leola, Ronks, and Intercourse. Each community offers a different perspective on Amish life and Pennsylvania Dutch traditions. Ephrata is known for its historic charm and local markets, while Lititz combines independent shops with inviting dining options. The roads connecting Leola, Ronks, and Intercourse wind through active farmland where roadside stands offer seasonal produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items.
One of the most popular things to do near Lancaster is visit the Green Dragon Farmers Market in Ephrata. Open every Friday, this long-running market features hundreds of vendors offering fresh meats, baked goods, antiques, quilts, produce, and locally made products. It provides visitors with an authentic look at daily life within the surrounding Amish community.
For visitors seeking a deeper Amish experience, The Amish Village near Strasburg offers educational tours that provide valuable insight into Amish customs, farming practices, and community life. Several Amish farms throughout the region also welcome visitors, creating opportunities to learn more about agricultural traditions that continue to thrive today.
Stay at a Reading Bed and Breakfast
After a day exploring Amish Country Pennsylvania, returning to The South Mountain Inn offers a comfortable and personalized alternative to traditional lodging. As a premier Reading Bed and Breakfast, the inn combines thoughtful hospitality, well-appointed accommodations, and convenient access to many of the area’s most popular attractions. Guests can enjoy morning coffee delivered directly to their room before heading out to discover more of Pennsylvania Amish Country.
Whether you are planning a unique getaway or exploring the rich history of the Pennsylvania Dutch, The South Mountain Inn provides the perfect home base. Book your stay today and experience one of the most fascinating regions in the East.
An Epic Day Snowshoeing at Hurricane Ridge, Washington
Best Hurricane Ridge Winter Activities Near Sequim
Winter at Hurricane Ridge transforms Olympic National Park into a bold, snow-covered playground filled with crisp air, wide-open views, and unforgettable mountain scenery. Just a short drive from Sequim, Hurricane Ridge is one of the most accessible winter adventure destinations in Washington, making it ideal for travelers who want snow without a long, complicated journey.
Thanks to Sequim’s famously drier microclimate, you can enjoy winter conditions while still returning to clear skies and coastal comfort at the end of the day. From bluebird snow days to dramatic cloud cover rolling across the peaks, Hurricane Ridge Washington delivers variety, beauty, and true seasonal excitement.
Snowshoeing is one of the most popular Olympic National Park winter activities, and Hurricane Ridge offers trails for every experience level. Beginners can explore the open meadows near the main parking area, where gentle terrain allows time to enjoy the views. More confident snowshoers often head toward Hurricane Hill, a classic route known for its panoramic payoff. Experienced adventurers may tackle Mount Angeles, a challenging climb that rewards with sweeping mountain perspectives.
Beyond snowshoeing, winter fun at Hurricane Ridge includes skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and cross-country skiing when conditions allow. The Hurricane Ridge Ski Area provides lift-served terrain with incredible Olympic views, while Nordic routes offer quieter ways to explore the snow-covered landscape. Backcountry skiing is also popular for those with the right experience and preparation.
Places to Stay Near Hurricane Ridge
After a full day in the mountains, staying close to the park makes all the difference. Juan de Fuca Cottages offers waterfront Sequim lodging that blends comfort with easy access to adventure. Located on Dungeness Bay, these cottages provide private beach access, walking trails, and peaceful views that feel especially rewarding after a day in the snow.
Warm up in your cottage, take a sunset walk along the shoreline, or gather around the fire pits as the sky fades over the Olympics. With Port Angeles and Hurricane Ridge just a short drive away, you’re perfectly positioned to enjoy early starts and relaxed evenings. If you’re looking for one of the best places to stay near Hurricane Ridge, this winter adventure getaway delivers both location and comfort. Book your stay and experience the season at its best.
An Epic Getaway to the San Juan Islands
Things to Do in San Juan Islands for a Unique Coastal Getaway
The San Juan Islands sit off the northwest corner of Washington State, and the journey is part of the experience, whether you arrive on the San Juan Island Ferry into Friday Harbor or land by seaplane with wide-open views of the Salish Sea. Once you are here, Friday Harbor makes an efficient home base because the downtown core is compact, walkable, and close to outfitters, galleries, cafes, and the waterfront. You’ll find an endless array of things to do in San Juan Islands.
Start with wildlife. Whale watching remains one of the most requested things to do in San Juan Islands, and local operators run tours year-round. Many visitors also plan time at Lime Kiln Point State Park, where coastal trails lead to the Lime Kiln Lighthouse and bluff-top viewpoints that can offer whale sightings from shore. For added context, the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor provides a clear, engaging look at the region’s marine ecosystem and resident orca pods.
If you want time on the water without a motor, book a guided kayaking tour from Friday Harbor and paddle along rocky shorelines where seals and seabirds are common. It’s one of the most peaceful things to do in San Juan Islands. On land, hiking and biking open up a different side of the islands. Explore San Juan Island trails, or hop over to Orcas Island to climb Mount Constitution for sweeping views. Cyclists often add a day trip to Lopez Island for quieter lanes and scenic routes.
Friday Harbor Lodging for Walkable Access
Staying at our Friday Harbor Lodging keeps logistics simple because you are steps from the ferry dock and close to shops, galleries, and the waterfront. Each morning, enjoy a gourmet breakfast served in your room, and return at day’s end to an elevated room, suite, or private cottage. Personalized concierge service can help coordinate whale watching, kayaking, day trips, and reservations.
Round out your itinerary with local tasting stops and a strong dining scene. Enjoy wine tasting at San Juan Vineyards, visit Madrone Cellars in Friday Harbor, or stop at San Juan Island Brewing for a pint brewed on site. For an evening out, reserve a table at Coho Restaurant for seasonal Northwest cuisine. Finally, set aside time for island hopping on the San Juan Island Ferry to explore Orcas and Lopez, and
An Incredible Road Trip From Missoula to Glacier National Park
Missoula to Glacier National Park Road Trip Guide
Missoula is the kind of place that makes a Montana adventure feel easy from the start. You get mountain views in every direction, a lively downtown with breweries and local shops, and a laid-back atmosphere that helps you actually relax before the early drive. If you’re planning a Missoula to Glacier National Park road trip, Missoula is an ideal home base because you can explore the town, sleep well, and then head north ready for a full day in one of the most iconic National Parks in the country.
Glacier sits in northwest Montana near the Canadian border, about 140 to 160 miles from Missoula, depending on your entrance. The drive from Missoula to Glacier National Park typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, and it’s scenic the whole way through Mission Valley, where big-sky views and rising peaks build anticipation. For a classic stop, plan time at the National Bison Range; it’s one of those only-in-Montana moments. If you want coffee or supplies before you enter the park, Kalispell is a convenient place to pause on the way to West Glacier.
Where to stay in Missoula for your Glacier day trip
After a long day on the road driving from Missoula to Glacier National Park, ending the day surrounded by comfort matters. Our Montana bed and breakfast offers five cozy guest suites, warm hospitality, and a hearty, homemade breakfast to fuel your morning. Set on 20 private acres overlooking the Bitterroot River and Missoula Valley, it feels removed from the noise but still close to town, so your getaway stays smooth from check-in to checkout.
Once you arrive, Glacier delivers on its reputation. Most Missoula travelers use the West Entrance near West Glacier to access Lake McDonald, Apgar Village, and the start of Going-to-the-Sun Road. For a different feel, the St. Mary Entrance brings dramatic mountain views right away and sets you up for areas like Many Glacier and Two Medicine. If you want quieter routes, consider Camas or Polebridge.
For an adventure day trip, build your plan around a few standout experiences. Start with Lake McDonald, then drive Going-to-the-Sun Road if conditions allow. If you want a hike with a big payoff, Avalanche Lake is a favorite. At Logan Pass, the Hidden Lake Trail is a classic for alpine scenery and the chance to spot mountain goats. Finish with scenic pullouts like Weeping Wall and Bird Woman Falls Overlook, then head back to Missoula with the kind of views you’ll be talking about all year.
An Oregon Coast Road Trip: Portland to Bandon
Best Oregon Coast Road Trip from Portland
An Oregon Coast Road Trip from Portland is one of the most scenic adventures in the Pacific Northwest. As Highway 101 curves along rugged headlands and wide sandy beaches, the drive is part of the experience itself. From working harbors to towering sea stacks, every stretch reveals new places to visit in Oregon that feel both wild and unforgettable.
Most Road Trip Oregon Coast itineraries begin by heading west on Highway 18 before connecting to Highway 101 south. A stop at Tillamook Creamery is a classic first break, followed by Cape Kiwanda’s sweeping dunes and Lincoln City’s expansive shoreline. Depoe Bay, known for whale watching, offers dramatic ocean views, while Newport features Yaquina Head Lighthouse and the Oregon Coast Aquarium.
Continuing south, Cape Perpetua’s coastal hikes deliver panoramic viewpoints, and Heceta Head’s iconic lighthouse stands high above the surf. Florence provides a perfect lunch stop before the landscape shifts to the Oregon Dunes and the wave-swept cliffs at Shore Acres State Park. The full Portland to Bandon drive is a revelation of some of the most memorable things to do in Oregon.
Where to Stay on Your Oregon Coast Adventure
Arriving in Bandon feels like reaching the grand finale. Face Rock State Scenic Viewpoint showcases dramatic sea stacks rising from the Pacific, while Old Town offers local seafood, galleries, and relaxed coastal charm. It is no surprise that many travelers consider it one of the best places to visit in Oregon.
Choosing the right lodging shapes the entire experience. Among Hotels on the Oregon Coast, Inn at Face Rock offers comfort and convenience just steps from Bandon Beach. A private beach trail eliminates parking stress, while a daily breakfast simplifies early departures. After a full day along Highway 101, unwind in the indoor pool or relax by the fire.
Whether planning around the best time to visit the Oregon Coast or mapping a detailed Oregon Coast road trip itinerary, this adventure promises lasting memories. Reserve your stay and make Bandon your home base.
Attend a Concert at the Strawbery Banke Museum This Summer
Best Strawbery Banke Museum Summer Concert Guide
A summer visit to the Strawbery Banke Museum is one of the most unique ways to experience the New Hampshire Seacoast. From mid-June through late August, the museum’s Tuesdays on the Terrace concert series brings live acoustic music to the historic grounds, creating an evening that combines local entertainment with one of the most significant historical sites in New Hampshire. Whether you enjoy folk, blues, Americana, soul, or country, the weekly performances offer something for every music lover.
Located in the heart of Portsmouth, Strawbery Banke Museum spans 10 acres and features 32 preserved historic buildings, heritage gardens, traditional crafts, and interactive exhibits that showcase centuries of American history. During the summer concert series, the open-air Kennebunk Savings Terrace becomes an inviting venue where guests can relax with lawn chairs or blankets while enjoying performances surrounded by beautifully preserved colonial architecture.
The family-friendly atmosphere makes these concerts especially appealing. Visitors may bring a picnic dinner or purchase snacks, ice cream, popcorn, and beverages on-site. Dedicated children’s evenings featuring interactive entertainment provide additional options for families planning a summer outing. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended, as registration ensures weather updates should performances move indoors.
Beyond the concert, there are countless things to do in Portsmouth, NH. Spend time exploring Market Square, enjoy a harbor cruise, browse local boutiques, or dine at one of the city’s acclaimed waterfront restaurants. If you have additional time, nearby Exeter offers another opportunity to experience the charm of the New Hampshire Seacoast, with its walkable downtown, seasonal farmers market, and community events. Visitors interested in discovering things to do near Portsmouth will find plenty to enjoy throughout the region’s historic coastal towns.
Stay at One of the Best Hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire
After an evening at Strawbery Banke Museum, unwind at one of the premier hotels in Exeter, New Hampshire. Located only about 20 minutes from Portsmouth, our beautifully restored 1809 Federal-style boutique inn provides an exceptional home base for exploring the coast. Elegant guest rooms feature antiques, original artwork, luxurious linens, and fireplaces in most accommodations, creating a comfortable retreat after a day of sightseeing.
Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared à la carte breakfast, while evenings offer exceptional on-site dining at Ambrose and Otis, two restaurants showcasing seasonal ingredients and Modern American cuisine. Whether you are planning a unique summer getaway focused on historical sites in New Hampshire, exploring New Hampshire coastal towns, or attending the Strawbery Banke Museum concert series, our boutique inn offers the ideal combination of historic charm, outstanding hospitality, and convenient access to the region’s most memorable attractions. Book your stay today.
Attend the Quechee Balloon Festival, Stay in Ludlow!
The Quechee Balloon Festival is one of the most anticipated summer events in Vermont, bringing vibrant color and excitement to the region each Father’s Day weekend. From June 19–21, 2026, visitors can watch dozens of hot air balloons rise above the rolling hills, river valleys, and scenic landscapes that make Quechee, VT a favorite summer destination. Whether you are planning a dedicated festival trip or looking for memorable things to do in Vermont, this weekend event offers an unforgettable experience.
The Quechee Hot Air Balloon Festival features multiple balloon launches throughout the weekend, weather permitting. The most popular viewing opportunities take place at sunrise and during the evening hours when the balloons lift into the soft summer light. Festival guests can also enjoy live music, local food vendors, artisan booths, family-friendly activities, sunrise yoga sessions, e-bike rides, and interactive events throughout the grounds.
One of the festival’s most popular traditions is the evening balloon glow. As dusk settles across the Vermont countryside, tethered balloons illuminate against the darkening sky, creating one of the most photographed moments of the weekend. Visitors seeking an even more memorable experience may reserve a hot air balloon ride, offering sweeping views of the region’s forests, farms, rivers, and mountains.
Lodging Near the Quechee Balloon Festival
While attending the balloon festival Vermont visitors should also explore nearby attractions such as Quechee Gorge, Quechee State Park, and the historic village of Woodstock. These destinations add variety to a weekend itinerary and provide excellent alternatives should weather impact balloon activities.
For travelers seeking comfortable lodging near Quechee, Echo Lake Inn in Ludlow offers a convenient and affordable option. Located within easy driving distance of the festival, this historic Vermont inn combines character, hospitality, and modern comforts. Guests can enjoy individually appointed accommodations, a seasonal outdoor pool, tennis courts, nearby canoe and kayak rentals, and welcoming common areas designed for relaxation.
The inn’s on-site restaurant features refined, locally inspired cuisine, making it easy to enjoy a complete Vermont getaway without extensive travel between activities. When planning your summer mountain weekend in Vermont, Echo Lake Inn provides an ideal home base for exploring the Quechee Balloon Festival and the many attractions throughout the Okemo Valley region.