What To See & Do
Unbeatable Views at the Top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse
Explore Florida’s Coast at the St. Augustine Lighthouse
The St. Augustine Lighthouse stands as one of the most recognized landmarks along Florida’s historic coast, offering a compelling mix of panoramic views, maritime history, and interactive exhibits. Located on Anastasia Island, this active aid to navigation dates back to 1874 and remains an essential part of the region’s identity. Visitors who climb the 219-step spiral staircase are rewarded with sweeping views of St. Augustine, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the surrounding beaches.
Beyond the tower, the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum provides a deeper look into the area’s maritime heritage. The Keepers’ House features hands-on exhibits, including artifacts from a documented 1782 British loyalist shipwreck. Additional structures across the property highlight the evolution of coastal industries and the people who shaped them. For those interested in craftsmanship, Heritage Boatworks offers a close-up look at traditional wooden boat building, led by dedicated volunteer boatwrights.
Guided experiences and local tours add another dimension to a visit. The Lighthouse Keeper’s Tour shares detailed historical insights, while the Dark of the Moon Ghost Tour explores the site’s more mysterious stories. These tours provide context and storytelling that extend beyond the standard self-guided climb.
Visitors can also explore the Maritime Hammock Nature Trails, which wind through native Florida landscapes and offer a quieter way to experience the grounds. Nearby, Anastasia State Park provides additional opportunities for coastal walks and beach access, making it easy to turn a lighthouse visit into a full afternoon outing. It won’t take you long to see why a visit to this historical gem is one of the best things to do in St. Augustine.
Walkable Lodging at Our St. Augustine Bed and Breakfast
For those planning a weekend stay, choosing a Bed and Breakfast in St. Augustine FL places you close to both the lighthouse and the city’s historic district. The St. Francis Inn offers a location that balances accessibility with a quieter setting just off the main streets. Guests can expect thoughtfully designed rooms, a courtyard garden, and amenities such as a pool, fitness center, and fire pit. A notable inclusion is complimentary admission to the St. Augustine Lighthouse, adding convenience and value to your visit.
Unique Things to Do in Nashville for Couples
Best Things to Do in Nashville for a Romantic Getaway
Planning a trip centered around the best things to do in Nashville opens the door to a city that blends culture, entertainment, and local character. While downtown Nashville is widely known for its music scene, couples will find a broader range of experiences that create a more distinctive and memorable visit. From curated tours to hands-on activities, the city offers opportunities to explore more than just the popular attractions.
Exploring Nashville’s culinary scene is one of the most popular starting points. The city features a wide range of dining options, from refined Michelin star restaurants to casual food trucks, allowing couples to build an itinerary around shared meals and new flavors. Pair dinner with a visit to local breweries, wineries, or cocktail-focused speakeasies to experience Nashville’s nightlife beyond the main corridors.
Live music remains central to the experience, and strolling through downtown Nashville introduces you to venues filled with emerging and established artists. Broadway’s well-known strip offers energy and variety, while smaller listening rooms provide a more intimate setting. For those interested in the history behind the sound, stops like the Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B, and the National Museum of African American Music offer meaningful context.
Beyond music, there are many things to see in Nashville that reflect the region’s history and design. Cheekwood Estate & Gardens and Belle Meade Plantation provide insight into Tennessee’s past while offering expansive grounds for a relaxed afternoon. Museums such as the Frist Art Museum and the Lane Motor Museum add variety, making it easy to tailor your visit based on shared interests.
Stay at a Romantic Nashville B&B
Choosing a Nashville B&B as your home base will be one of the best parts of your getaway! A restored historic mansion offers a setting that complements the city’s character while providing modern comfort. Guests can take advantage of curated experiences such as guided tours, horseback riding excursions, and interactive workshops, all designed to simplify planning and enhance your stay.
After a full day exploring Nashville’s things to do, returning to a well-appointed guest room allows you to unwind in a setting that feels both private and refined. Thoughtful design, comfortable accommodations, and a prepared breakfast each morning create a consistent and elevated experience. A trip built around the best things to do in Nashville becomes more cohesive when your lodging supports the same level of detail and care. For couples seeking a unique getaway in the South, this approach ensures your time in Nashville is both structured and memorable.
Upcoming Events at The Amp in St. Augustine, Florida
Best St. Augustine Amphitheater Concert Weekend
A live show at the St. Augustine Amphitheater is reason enough to plan a coastal weekend getaway. Known locally as The Amp, this outdoor venue combines major touring artists with a relaxed, intimate setting that makes every concert feel special. Whether music anchors your trip or adds energy to a full itinerary, the St. Augustine Amphitheater delivers memorable nights under the stars.
Built to commemorate the city’s 400th anniversary, The Amp has earned a reputation for “big acts, small venue.” With seating for just under 5,000 guests, sightlines are excellent, and the sound carries beautifully throughout the space. The St. Augustine Amphitheater schedule features everything from classic rock and country legends to contemporary artists, comedy acts, and seasonal festivals. Checking upcoming St. Augustine Amphitheater concerts before planning your weekend often reveals the perfect excuse to book a stay.
Beyond concerts, The Amp plays an active role in the community. Weekend farmers’ markets and annual music festivals add to its appeal, making it more than just a concert venue. Its location just over the Intracoastal Waterway keeps it close to downtown while still feeling like a destination of its own.
Lodging Near the Amp for a Relaxed Weekend Stay
Choosing lodging near the St. Augustine Amphitheater allows you to enjoy the city without rushing. Staying close to the historic district puts shops, museums, restaurants, and waterfront views within easy reach. After a night of live music, returning to a quiet, comfortable room makes all the difference.
Guest rooms designed for comfort and character help turn a concert weekend into a true getaway. Thoughtful amenities, inviting spaces to unwind, and walkable access to the city’s best attractions elevate the experience beyond the show itself. Whether you’re in town for one performance or several events on the St. Augustine Amphitheater schedule, the right accommodations complete the trip.
If you’re planning a coastal weekend filled with live music, culture, and great dining, now is the time to check upcoming St. Augustine Amphitheater events and secure your stay. A well-planned concert weekend in St. Augustine delivers entertainment, atmosphere, and lasting memories.
Upcoming Events at the St. Augustine Amphitheater
Best Spring Shows at the St. Augustine Amphitheater
A spring weekend in St. Augustine feels even more memorable when live music is part of the plan. The St. Augustine Amphitheater, known locally as The Amp, is one of Florida’s most beloved outdoor venues, drawing major touring artists and unforgettable performances each season. With its “big acts, small venue” reputation, this is the kind of place where every seat feels close to the stage and every show feels personal.
Built in 1965 to celebrate the city’s 400th anniversary, the St. Augustine Amphitheater has become a must-visit destination for music lovers. The spring St. Augustine Amphitheater schedule is packed with variety, from classic rock and country icons to funk, soul, and contemporary favorites. Whether you’re planning your getaway around a specific artist or simply browsing upcoming St. Augustine Amphitheater concerts, catching a show here adds energy and excitement to any weekend.
Beyond concerts, The Amp also plays a central role in the community. Seasonal events, weekend farmers markets, and festivals bring locals and visitors together, making it more than just a concert venue. Located just over the Intracoastal from downtown, it’s easy to pair an evening show with a full day of exploring all the other things to do in St. Augustine, including historic streets, waterfront views, and acclaimed restaurants.
Where to Stay Near the Amp
After a night of live music, having comfortable lodging near The Amp makes all the difference. Staying close allows you to enjoy the concert without worrying about traffic or long drives back to your room. Our St. Augustine bed and breakfast offers a relaxed, welcoming place to unwind, perfectly suited for a spring weekend escape.
Each guest room is thoughtfully designed, offering privacy, comfort, and small details that elevate your stay. From soft lighting and cozy robes to complimentary amenities waiting in your room, it’s a place that feels easy and inviting after a full day out. Located in the historic district, you’ll be within walking distance of shops, museums, dining, and some of the city’s most iconic sights.
If live music is on your spring itinerary, make the St. Augustine Amphitheater part of your weekend and choose lodging near The Amp that completes the experience. Book your stay and enjoy a weekend filled with great shows and classic St. Augustine charm.
Upstate New York Towns to Visit This Summer
Best Upstate New York Towns for a Romantic Trip
Summer is the best time to visit Upstate New York towns, especially throughout the Adirondacks. Just a few hours north of Manhattan, this region offers couples a refreshing escape filled with mountain air, sparkling lakes, and charming downtowns. If you’re searching for places to visit in Upstate New York, summer is the perfect time to plan a romantic getaway in Upstate New York.
Bolton Landing along Lake George is a favorite for lakeside strolls, boat cruises, and sunset dinners overlooking the water. A morning cruise past Millionaires’ Row reveals historic mansions that define the area’s Gilded Age legacy. Nearby, Glen Falls delivers culture with galleries, boutique shopping, and performances at the Adirondack Theatre Festival. A visit to The Hyde Collection Art Museum adds depth to any weekend itinerary.
Schroon Lake offers a quieter pace, ideal for swimming, paddling, and unwinding by uncrowded shorelines. In Saratoga Springs, historic charm meets vibrant energy. From the iconic Saratoga Race Course to romantic dinners at 15 Church, this town blends tradition with refined dining. Queensbury and Warrensburg provide easy access to hiking trails, antique shops, and scenic drives through the mountains.
Chestertown remains one of the most inviting Upstate New York towns for couples seeking both activity and relaxation. Explore local shops by day, attend a summer concert in the evening, or set out on nearby hiking trails before returning to peaceful surroundings.
Plan A Romantic Getaway in Upstate NY
After exploring these Upstate New York towns, retreat to Friends Lake Inn, one of the most romantic getaways in Upstate NY, designed for comfort and connection. You’ll find refined accommodations in a secluded natural setting near Lake George and Chestertown.
Beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites provide inviting sitting areas and thoughtful details that make staying in just as enjoyable as heading out. Couples can stroll private nature trails, unwind in the tranquility room, or enjoy destination-worthy dining at the on-site Adirondack Restaurant. For those seeking the best places to visit in Upstate New York this summer, combine a trip to these charming towns with an intimate stay to elevate the experience. Reserve your romantic escape today.
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 Small Towns near Asheville NC
Best North Carolina Mountain Towns for Romantic Getaways
Western North Carolina offers a collection of mountain towns with scenic landscapes and engaging local culture. Among the most appealing North Carolina mountain towns, Saluda stands out for its historic character, walkable downtown, and convenient access to the surrounding region. As a former railroad hub along the Saluda Grade, part of the town’s charm is preserved architecture.
Visitors can spend time exploring Main Street, where independent shops, galleries, and outfitters create a lively yet approachable atmosphere. Dining adds depth to the experience, with options ranging from elevated meals at Newman’s to live music and curated menus at The Purple Onion, as well as casual favorites like Green River BBQ. Outdoor activities are equally accessible, including waterfall hikes, kayaking along the Green River Gorge, and scenic overlooks that showcase the Western North Carolina mountains.
Saluda also serves as a central point for exploring other mountain towns in North Carolina. Within 30 minutes, Tryon offers equestrian culture and galleries, Hendersonville features a vibrant downtown with orchards and wineries, and Flat Rock provides historic sites and theater. Within an hour, Asheville offers a mix of restaurants, breweries, and cultural attractions, while Lake Lure, Brevard, and Black Mountain offer scenic, outdoor-focused experiences.
For those willing to explore further, destinations like Maggie Valley, Waynesville, Little Switzerland, Hot Springs, and Burnsville expand the possibilities with access to the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Great Smoky Mountains, and a wide range of outdoor and cultural experiences. As you can see, there are so many things to do in Western NC.
Romantic Lodging in North Carolina Mountains
After a day spent discovering the best places to visit in NC, returning to a thoughtfully designed lodging experience enhances the overall trip. This elevated Bed and Breakfast in NC offers a range of accommodations, including rooms, suites, and private cottages tailored to romantic getaways. High-end linens, plush towels, and a curated pillow menu create a comfortable environment, while gas fireplaces in every cottage and suite provide a romantic atmosphere year-round. Book your mountain getaways near Asheville NC to experience the peaceful Blue Ridge Mountains.
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.