What To See & Do
A Stunning Museum in Durham to Check Out
Plan the Perfect Visit to the North Carolina Museum of Art
The North Carolina Museum of Art is one of the most rewarding cultural attractions in the Triangle Region, offering visitors an opportunity to explore centuries of artistic expression while enjoying one of the country’s largest museum parks. Located just outside downtown Raleigh, this destination combines world-class galleries, outdoor installations, and scenic trails, making it an excellent addition to a couples getaway in the South.
Inside the museum, visitors will find an impressive collection that spans a wide range of cultures, periods, and artistic styles. From European masterpieces and ancient artifacts to contemporary works and thought-provoking installations, the galleries provide an engaging experience for both seasoned art enthusiasts and casual visitors. The thoughtfully designed spaces encourage guests to move at their own pace while taking in the museum’s diverse collections.
One of the features that sets the North Carolina Museum of Art apart from other North Carolina museums is its connection to the Ann and Jim Goodnight Museum Park. The expansive outdoor space features walking and biking trails, large-scale sculptures, open fields, and rotating installations. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a more active afternoon, the park extends the museum experience beyond the gallery walls.
Current special exhibitions continue to bring fresh perspectives to the museum. Visitors can explore Knowing the West, which examines artistic interpretations of the American West through a variety of visual storytelling mediums. Partial Figure highlights the emotional impact of the human form through works ranging from ancient sculpture to pieces by renowned artists such as Auguste Rodin, Edgar Degas, Pablo Picasso, and Eudora Welty.
General admission to the permanent collection is free, making the North Carolina Museum of Art one of the most accessible museums in Raleigh, NC. Its convenient location also makes it easy to combine with other things to do in Raleigh NC, including dining, shopping, and exploring downtown Raleigh.
A Bed and Breakfast Near Raleigh for Your Couples Getaway
After a day of exploring the North Carolina Museum of Art and discovering more things to do in the Triangle, retreat to Arrowhead Inn in Durham. Conveniently located near Raleigh and Durham attractions, our bed and breakfast near Raleigh offers a refined alternative to traditional accommodations.
Guests enjoy beautifully appointed accommodations, peaceful gardens, and a thoughtfully prepared breakfast each morning. Whether your itinerary includes additional North Carolina museums, a visit to a Durham art museum, or an evening in downtown Raleigh, Arrowhead Inn provides a comfortable and inviting place to relax. Book your stay today and experience a memorable couples getaway in the South.
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.
A Unique Redwood Coast Getaway
Eighty Years at the Trees of Mystery Along Highway 101
Trees of Mystery has been the oddest, most memorable stop on Highway 101 since 1946. If you’re looking for a unique attraction on California’s Redwood Coast, this is the place where folklore, ancient trees, and a little roadside theater all come together. A 49 foot Paul Bunyan and his 35 foot blue ox, Babe, greet visitors on arrival.
What a Trip to Trees of Mystery Includes
One ticket covers the entire experience, so there’s no paying per attraction once you’re through the gate. That means the SkyTrail gondola, the Redwood Canopy Trail, the walking trails, the Trail of Tall Tales, and the End of the Trail Museum are all included.
The SkyTrail carries riders about a third of a mile through the redwood canopy in under ten minutes, ending at an observation deck with views that reach the Pacific on a clear day. From there, you can ride back down or walk the wilderness trail through the grove instead.
For a closer look at the canopy itself, the Redwood Canopy Trail uses a series of aerial platforms and suspension bridges to put visitors 50 to 100 feet up among the branches. Ten platforms and eight bridges make up the route, with a spiral staircase connecting two of the higher points.
Ancient Trees You Have to See to Believe
The Cathedral Tree is actually nine trees grown together into a semicircle over centuries. The Candelabra Tree and the Elephant Tree have grown into shapes distinctive enough to become trail landmarks. The Brotherhood Tree, one of the largest living redwoods in the world at roughly 2,000 years old, 19 feet in diameter, and nearly 300 feet tall. It survived the logging that cleared much of the surrounding area in the 1950s, anchoring the trail today.
Make Old Town Eureka Your Home Base
A day at Trees of Mystery deserves a comfortable place to land, and Carter House Inns delivers exactly that. Set in a collection of restored Victorian buildings in the heart of Old Town Eureka, our hotel near Trees of Mystery puts you within easy reach of the redwoods while keeping you close to downtown shopping, the Carson Mansion, and Humboldt Bay.
Every stay includes a complimentary glass of wine in the evening and full breakfast in the morning. Guests looking for a evening out choose Restaurant 301, our on site dining room known for its award winning wine list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Trees of Mystery worth it?
For most visitors, yes. A single ticket covers the gondola, canopy trail, walking paths, and museum, so you’re getting several distinct experiences for one admission price rather than paying separately for each.
How long does a visit to Trees of Mystery take?
Plan for two to three hours if you want to see the gondola, walk the Redwood Canopy Trail, and stop through the museum without rushing.
Is Trees of Mystery dog friendly?
Leashed dogs are welcome across most of the property, including the walking trails. The one exception is the Redwood Canopy Trail, where dogs are not permitted on the aerial suspension bridges.
Where should I stay near Trees of Mystery?
Carter House Inns in Old Town Eureka is a comfortable, centrally located option for exploring the Redwood Coast, with Victorian architecture, on site dining, and easy access to redwood groves and coastal attractions.
Ready to make the most of your Redwood Coast getaway? Book your stay at Carter House Inns and use our Old Town Eureka location as your base for exploring Trees of Mystery and everything else Redwood National Park have to offer.
Alaska in the Fall: The Best Things to Do in Juneau
What to Do in Juneau, Alaska This Fall
Fall in Juneau runs from late August through November, and it might be the best season the city offers. The cruise ships thin out, prices ease, and the town settles into a quieter rhythm that suits anyone wondering what to do in Juneau, Alaska once summer traffic clears. Temperatures sit in the 40s and 50s, rain gear is non-negotiable, and locals watch for “termination dust,” the first dusting of snow that appears on the mountains above town and signals the season has turned.
Find the Beautiful Fall Colors
Alaska’s fall foliage rarely gets the attention New England’s does, but it earns it. Meadows turn gold, blueberry bushes flush red along the trailheads, and Douglas Island shifts into a solid wave of color across the channel. The Trail of Time near Mendenhall Glacier is an easy, flat walk through a shifting palette and is well-suited for families. Dan Moller Trail climbs into higher meadows where the color turns earlier in the season, and West Glacier Trail winds through spruce stands before opening onto rocky overlooks above the glacier itself. That last one is best tackled with an experienced guide given the terrain.
Wildlife Watching Peaks Before Winter
Fall is arguably the strongest wildlife window of the year. Humpback whales feed heavily in local waters before their southern migration, and whale-watching tours out of Auke Bay tend to be especially productive this time of year. Bald eagles collect in the shoreline trees, and bears make their final push at the salmon runs. Pack Creek on Admiralty Island is a well-known brown bear viewing spot, while Steep Creek near the glacier draws black bears when the salmon are running thick. A floatplane trip out to Admiralty Island is worth building into the itinerary if wildlife is the priority.
Spend an Afternoon Downtown
Cooler weather turns downtown Juneau into a walking city. The Alaska State Museum and the Juneau-Douglas City Museum cover everything from Tlingit heritage to Gold Rush history, and both make a good rainy-afternoon stop. The monthly First Friday Art Walk keeps galleries and studios open late with local art and music. For food, Tracy’s Crab Shack is known for Red King Crab, and Deckhand Dave’s serves a solid halibut taco; Alaskan Brewing Co. and Amalga Distillery cover the drink side of things.
Fall Events to Plan Around
Juneau’s fall calendar has real substance. Perseverance Theatre runs symphony and stage performances throughout the season; Halloween brings costumed trick-or-treaters through downtown and the valley; and if the trip stretches into late November, the Juneau Public Market opens the holiday season with local makers and seasonal goods. Check the local events calendar before locking in dates so an evening or two can be built around whatever’s happening.
Where to Stay in Downtown Juneau
Among hotels in Juneau, Alaska, the ones worth booking are the ones that put you within walking distance of everything above. Alaska’s Capital Inn sits right in downtown Juneau, a boutique B&B where the innkeepers know the fall calendar well, from which trails are turning to which boats are seeing whales that week. Mornings bring a full breakfast, evenings bring a happy hour with local snacks and drinks, and the rooms themselves are furnished in Arts and Crafts style, some with fireplaces and jetted tubs, others with quiet seating areas overlooking the garden. It’s a lovely place to plan your fall getaway to Juneau.
FAQ: Fall in Juneau, Alaska
What is the best time to see fall colors in Alaska?
Late August through late September is typically peak color in the Juneau area, with higher-elevation trails like Dan Moller turning first.
Is Juneau a good place to visit in the fall?
Yes. Fall brings shoulder-season pricing, thinner crowds, active whale and bear watching, and a full calendar of downtown arts events, making it one of the more underrated times to visit.
What wildlife can you see in Juneau in the fall?
Humpback whales, bald eagles, and both brown and black bears are all active in the Juneau area during fall, with salmon runs drawing bears close to town at spots like Steep Creek.
What should I pack for Juneau in the fall?
Layers and reliable rain gear. Temperatures typically run in the 40s and 50s, and rain is common even when the days start clear.
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.