What To See & Do
The Best of Winter in the Shenandoah Valley
Best Things to Do in the Shenandoah Valley This Winter
Winter brings a quieter, more intimate side of the Shenandoah Valley, making it an ideal time to slow down and experience the region at your own pace. With fewer crowds and crisp mountain air, winter in the Shenandoah Valley highlights scenic beauty, rich history, and a long list of activities that feel even more special this time of year.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of things to do in the Shenandoah Valley in winter. Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway offer peaceful winter hiking, scenic overlooks, and wildlife viewing made better by unobstructed views. Popular trails like Crabtree Falls take on a new personality when dusted with snow, while nearby routes in Staunton and Lexington offer easier walks close to town. After snowfall, select areas even open for snowshoeing and Nordic skiing.
If exploring charming towns is more your speed, downtown Staunton and Lexington deliver memorable winter experiences. Both are known for boutique shopping, historic architecture, and standout dining, making them excellent stops for a relaxed afternoon. Cultural highlights like performances at the American Shakespeare Center add another layer to winter visits, especially during seasonal productions.
Where to Stay for a Winter Shenandoah Valley Getaway
After full days exploring, where you stay becomes part of the experience. Choosing Steeles Tavern Manor, a leading romantic Bed and Breakfast in Virginia, offers a more personal way to enjoy winter in the Shenandoah Valley. From spacious guest rooms with fireplaces to private cabins in Virginia designed for quiet evenings, the right accommodations elevate the entire trip.
Travelers seeking privacy often gravitate toward Shenandoah Valley cabins, especially those with hot tubs, kitchens, and fireplaces. These spaces allow you to enjoy winter nights on your own schedule while still being close to the area’s top attractions. A Virginia Bed and Breakfast experience adds the bonus of thoughtful hospitality and freshly prepared breakfasts to start each day.
Winter is also an ideal season to focus on rest and relaxation. Onsite spa services, scenic views of the surrounding mountains, and inviting common areas encourage guests to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you spend the day exploring or staying in, winter in the Shenandoah Valley offers flexibility and comfort.
With so many things to do in the Shenandoah Valley this winter and inviting lodging options waiting at the end of the day, planning a seasonal mountain getaway has never felt more rewarding.
The Best Places to Visit in Florida for Couples
Best Places to Visit in Florida: Flagler Beach
Florida offers no shortage of sunshine, but couples looking for a relaxed, memorable escape often seek destinations that feel easy rather than overly planned. When exploring places to visit in Florida for couples, Flagler Beach stands out for its uncrowded shoreline, scenic drives, and welcoming coastal rhythm. Located between Daytona Beach and St. Augustine, this area makes an ideal base for couples who want beach time balanced with thoughtful day trips.
Flagler Beach appeals to couples who enjoy variety without the pressure of a packed itinerary. Morning beach walks, afternoons spent browsing local shops, and evenings filled with fresh seafood and ocean views create a natural flow. Scenic drives along A1A offer uninterrupted coastal scenery, while nearby parks and preserves provide opportunities to explore nature together. For couples seeking hidden romantic getaways in Florida, the pace here feels refreshingly personal.
Relaxing Hotels in Flagler Beach for Romantic Getaways
A couples-focused Florida vacation feels complete at Island Cottage Inn. This boutique hotel offers a welcoming retreat just steps from the shoreline, giving couples a quiet place to unwind after exploring. Known for stylish rooms and coastal décor, this boutique property is one of the most inviting hotels in Flagler Beach for couples who appreciate comfort and thoughtful details.
Days in Flagler Beach can be as active or relaxed as you like. Paddle along the Intracoastal Waterway, visit Washington Oaks Gardens State Park, or explore historic sites like Bulow Plantation Ruins. Golf courses, museums, and state parks nearby allow couples to shape a trip that fits their interests without long drives or complicated planning.
Evenings are best spent enjoying beachfront dining, sunset views, or returning to the inn for quiet time together. With amenities like a private beach walkover and provided beach essentials, the experience feels effortless. Many couples find that these simple touches turn a short escape into one of their favorite romantic getaways in Florida. If you’re planning a couples getaway and searching for the best places to visit in Florida for couples, Flagler Beach offers a coastal experience that feels both relaxed and memorable.
The Best Places to Visit in Iowa: Lake Okoboji
Best Places to Visit in Iowa for a Midwest Escape
When people search for the best places to visit in Iowa, Lake Okoboji consistently rises to the top of the list. Known as the center of the Iowa Great Lakes region, this vibrant lake destination blends outdoor recreation, local entertainment, and classic Midwest charm, especially during spring and summer.
Lake Okoboji, with its East and West segments, is one of Iowa’s most popular lakes. Clear blue water sets the stage for boating, paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Visitors can rent a pontoon for the afternoon, kayak along the shoreline, or board the Queen II for a scenic cruise. Public beaches like Gull Point State Park and Marble Beach State Park offer sandy stretches and peaceful hiking trails, creating the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.
Beyond the water, you will find some of the top Iowa attractions. Arnolds Park Amusement Park delivers lakeside nostalgia with classic rides and live concerts at Preservation Plaza. Scenic biking and walking trails weave through the region, connecting lakes, parks, and nearby towns. For food lovers, waterfront restaurants serve everything from casual lakeside fare to elevated dining with sunset views. Add in farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and the Okoboji Summer Theater, and it is easy to see why this area ranks among the most unique places to visit in Iowa.
Stay at One of the Best Okoboji Hotels
Where you stay is an important part of the experience. The Oakwood Inn is one of the best Okoboji hotels for those who want proximity to Lake Okoboji without the noise of peak summer crowds. This adults-only boutique property offers a quiet retreat just minutes from the action.
Guest rooms are designed for comfort, and the trail system begins right outside the property, making morning walks or bike rides effortless. Each day starts with a home-cooked breakfast featuring award-winning recipes. Pet-friendly accommodations and welcoming hospitality make it easy to settle in and stay awhile.
If you are planning to discover the best things to do in Iowa this spring or summer, make Lake Okoboji your home base. Book your stay and experience one of the best places to visit in Iowa firsthand.
The Best Road Trip Around the Olympic Peninsula
Olympic Peninsula Road Trip Weekend Itinerary
An Olympic Peninsula Road Trip is one of the most satisfying ways to see the Pacific Northwest in a single, well-paced weekend. Starting from Seattle, the drive to Olympic National Park feels like part of the experience, especially if you build in time for scenic highways, waterfront views, and quick trail stops along the way.
Port Angeles is a practical first base, thanks to easy access to key Olympic National Park highlights and services you want nearby before a full day of exploring. From town, the drive to Hurricane Ridge delivers big mountain views, and on clear days, you can see across the Washington Peninsula and into Canada.
Back at a lower elevation, Lake Crescent adds a different kind of drama, with clear water, forested shoreline, and road pullouts that make it easy to linger without overcommitting your schedule. If you want a classic waterfall stop, the Marymere Falls hike pairs well with a Lake Crescent visit, and the Spruce Railroad Trail offers a flatter option along the lake.
Continuing your Olympic Peninsula loop, the Sol Duc Valley is a smart stop for trail access and Sol Duc Falls, plus the seasonal Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort if you want a restorative break. Farther west, the Hoh Rain Forest rounds out a strong Olympic National Park itinerary with short, immersive walks under moss-draped trees. To finish the day on the coast, plan time for Olympic National Park beaches such as Rialto Beach for sea stacks and surf, or Ruby Beach for wide views and sunset conditions that can be spectacular when the sky cooperates.
Places to stay near Olympic National Park
After a full day on an Olympic National Park road trip, a comfortable home base matters. Our vacation rentals near Port Angeles and Sequim are designed for flexibility, with family-friendly and pet-friendly lodging options that help you settle in and keep your weekend logistics simple. Their central location also supports efficient day trips to Hurricane Ridge, Lake Crescent, and the Olympic National Park coast without feeling like you are constantly packing up and moving.
If you are planning a weekend escape that balances mountain viewpoints, rainforest trails, and shoreline time, this Olympic Peninsula Road Trip route keeps the momentum high while staying manageable. Book your vacation rental directly and give yourself the time to experience the loop at a relaxed, unhurried pace.
The Best Santa Fe Train Rides
Why a Santa Fe Train Ride Belongs on Your Itinerary
The Santa Fe train experience is a major part of the city’s history. For more than a century, the Santa Fe train carried artists, scientists, and presidents into northern New Mexico. Today you can choose your own version of a Santa Fe train ride: an entertainment train rolling out of the Railyard with live music and a bar car, a historic narrow gauge steam route climbing through the mountains a couple of hours north, or a commuter line that turns the trip to Albuquerque into part of the fun. Between Sky Railway, the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad, and the Rail Runner Express, some of the best scenic train rides in the Southwest begin within easy reach of downtown Santa Fe, making a train ride the centerpiece of any scenic getaway here.
Apart from riding a Santa Fe train, there are so many other things to do in Santa Fe that a weekend rarely feels long enough. Beer lovers can spend an afternoon in the taproom at Santa Fe Brewing Company. Families will find plenty on our list of the best things to do in Santa Fe with kids, from hands-on museums to easy outdoor adventures. Art comes standard here, and the Canyon Road art tour packs numerous galleries into a half-mile stroll. When you are ready to venture farther, the best day trips from Santa Fe reach ghost towns, hot springs, and high-desert villages within an easy drive.
After a day on the rails, you will want to return to a comfortable place to stay. Our Bed and Breakfast in Santa Fe is just steps from the Plaza and an easy stroll from the Railyard depot, where both Sky Railway and the Rail Runner depart. Start with a homemade breakfast on the patio, ride the rails, and come back to one of six rooms filled with art from the region.
The Best Santa Fe Train Rides and How to Choose the Right One
Each Santa Fe train experience offers something different, and together they showcase the full range of train rides in New Mexico. Whether you are looking for a lively evening, a full day behind a historic steam locomotive, or a relaxing ride to Albuquerque, each option follows rail lines with remarkable history.
Sky Railway is the entertainment train, running beautifully restored passenger cars between Santa Fe and Lamy with live music, themed entertainment, and a full bar on board. Most excursions last about two and a half to three hours, making them easy to fit into a weekend getaway. The calendar rotates through themed rides, including sunset cocktail experiences, wine and local beer tastings, stargazing trips beneath New Mexico’s dark skies, margarita rides, and the popular Outlaw Express featuring a Wild West show through the Galisteo Basin. The railroad was revived in 2020 by a group of Santa Feans, including author George R.R. Martin, which is why the locomotives are painted with a wolf and a dragon. Trains depart from the historic Santa Fe Depot in the Railyard, just a short walk from downtown.
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad is the ultimate day trip and one of the best scenic train rides in North America. Designated a National Historic Landmark, it is the longest, highest, and most authentic steam railroad in North America. The steam train covers 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, crossing the state line 11 times as it climbs to the 10,015-foot summit of Cumbres Pass, passes through two tunnels, and crosses the 137-foot Cascade Trestle. Riders regularly spot elk, deer, antelope, eagles, and occasionally even bears along the route. USA Today readers have voted it one of America’s best scenic railroads multiple times.
The New Mexico Rail Runner Express is the practical option, connecting Santa Fe with Albuquerque and communities throughout the corridor to Belen. Fares are zone-based, and tickets are available online. The Santa Fe Depot sits in the heart of the Railyard next to the Santa Fe Farmers’ Market, making it easy to board after breakfast.
If you are choosing just one, here is how we usually describe them to guests. Book Sky Railway for a memorable evening close to town, save the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad for when you have a full day and want one of the very best train rides in New Mexico, and think of the Rail Runner as transportation that happens to include wonderful scenery. Both Sky Railway and the Cumbres & Toltec often sell out during the busiest seasons, especially on fall weekends when the aspens begin changing color, so reserving in advance is a good idea.
Where to Stay Near the Santa Fe Train Depot
Whichever Santa Fe train experience you choose, Four Kachinas Inn makes the rest of the trip easy. Located about a 20-minute walk from the Railyard depot, you can board Sky Railway or the Rail Runner without ever moving your vehicle. The inn’s six guest rooms are spread across three buildings and feature original and regional artwork, handcrafted furnishings, and traditional New Mexican architecture.
Mornings here set you up perfectly for a day on the rails. Breakfast is served each morning and includes a hot entrée, fresh fruit, home-baked goods, cereals, yogurts, juices, tea, and freshly brewed coffee. Enjoy breakfast in the dining room or on the patio before heading out for your Santa Fe train adventure.
Book Your Scenic Getaway to Santa Fe
After the rails bring you back to town, the peaceful garden courtyard awaits a quiet evening beneath the Santa Fe sky. Book your stay at Four Kachinas Inn and begin your scenic getaway on a Santa Fe train.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a train from Albuquerque to Santa Fe?
Yes. The New Mexico Rail Runner Express connects Santa Fe with Albuquerque and communities throughout the corridor to Belen, with zone-based fares available online.
Where does the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad run?
The Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad runs 64 miles between Chama, New Mexico, and Antonito, Colorado, climbing to the 10,015-foot summit of Cumbres Pass.
Where does Sky Railway depart from in Santa Fe?
Sky Railway departs from the historic Santa Fe Depot in the Railyard, a short walk from downtown Santa Fe and from Four Kachinas Inn.
Where should you stay for a Santa Fe train getaway?
Four Kachinas Inn sits about a 20-minute walk from the Railyard depot, making it easy to board Sky Railway or the Rail Runner Express without moving your car.
The Best Solo Vacations on Cape Cod
Best Solo Travel Destinations: Cape Cod Coastal Escape
Cape Cod stands out as one of the best solo travel destinations in the United States, offering a coastal setting that fosters independence. With its wide beaches, walkable towns, and relaxed vibe, it appeals to visitors seeking both structure and flexibility. Whether you are planning solo travel for women or simply looking for one of the best places for solo vacations, the Cape provides a safe setting.
Mornings can begin with a quiet walk along the shoreline, followed by a bike ride on the Cape Cod Rail Trail or a visit to one of the region’s historic lighthouses. Towns like Chatham and Provincetown offer distinct experiences, from boutique shopping and art galleries to waterfront dining. The variety of things to do on Cape Cod makes it easy to create a full and varied itinerary, which is why this region is often considered one of the best places to solo travel as a woman.
Cape Cod is widely recognized as one of the best solo trips for women in the US due to its welcoming atmosphere and accessible layout. Visitors can enjoy both lively and quiet beaches, including Nauset Beach and Coast Guard Beach for a more active environment, or Red River Beach for a quieter experience.
Dining is another highlight, with options ranging from casual waterfront cafés to refined restaurants focused on local seafood. Exploring these spaces alone feels natural here, reinforcing why the Cape remains one of the best solo travel destinations for trips for singles and independent travelers.
Where to Stay in Cape Cod for Solo Trips
Choosing the right accommodations is essential when planning solo vacations. A centrally located stay in Harwich places you within easy reach of beaches, restaurants, and nearby towns, making exploration straightforward and efficient. A Bed and Breakfast on Cape Cod provides an elevated experience, combining attentive service with a comfortable, private setting that supports a seamless stay.
The Best Spring Getaway in the Columbia River Gorge
Best Columbia Gorge Getaways Near Seattle This Spring
Spring is when the Columbia River Gorge feels most alive. Waterfalls surge with snowmelt, hillsides shift back to green, and the light stays soft long enough for a full day outside. If you are looking for Columbia Gorge getaways near Seattle, this is an ideal season to plan a weekend that balances movement, views, and real downtime.
Start with the classics. Iconic waterfall stops like Multnomah Falls, Latourell Falls, and Horsetail Falls are at their most dramatic in spring, with easy walks that still deliver that wow factor. If you want a bigger day on the trail, late spring brings wildflower season, with favorites like Dog Mountain and Rowena Plateau offering wide-open views that reward the climb. Prefer to keep it flexible, a scenic drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway is a perfect spring itinerary builder, with viewpoints and trailheads that let you choose your own pace.
Midday is made for river towns. Hood River, White Salmon, and Stevenson are easy places to reset between adventures, whether that means a relaxed lunch, a tasting room stop, or browsing local shops before heading back out for golden hour.
Where to Stay for Columbia Gorge Getaways
There may be plenty of things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, but the best weekends in the Gorge include time to slow down, not just time to explore. Columbia Gorge cabins make it easy to shift from trail days to restorative evenings, with privacy, design-forward comfort, and a setting that keeps the landscape front and center. Begin your morning with coffee and mountain views, come home to a fire after sunset, and let crisp spring nights set the tone for a true reset.
If your idea of a weekend getaway includes wellness, you can elevate your stay with in-cabin massages and thoughtful amenities that support rest and renewal. After a day of chasing waterfalls and viewpoints, the simple luxury of a warm soak, quiet surroundings, and space to unplug is exactly what spring in the Gorge is all about.
The Best Stillwater Antique Stores
Best Stillwater Antique Stores Near Minneapolis
Stillwater has become one of the most rewarding destinations for antiquing in the Midwest, especially for those searching for antique stores near Minneapolis. Just a short drive from the Twin Cities, this historic river town offers a collection of Stillwater antique stores that feel curated rather than crowded. With walkable streets, preserved architecture, and a welcoming pace, antiquing here naturally turns into a full weekend getaway.
The appeal of Stillwater antiques lies in their variety. From multi-dealer spaces to smaller specialty shops, each store offers its own personality and focus. American Gothic Antiques is known for its thoughtful layout and mix of American and European pieces, making it easy to browse without feeling overwhelmed. Staples Mill Antiques, set inside a historic sawmill, rewards curiosity with architectural salvage, rustic furniture, and unexpected finds across multiple levels. Midtown Antiques, the largest antique mall in the Midwest, blends farmhouse, mid-century, and classic styles across three expansive floors. Stillwater Antique Mall brings together a wide range of dealers, making it easy to compare styles and eras in one stop.
Where to Stay During an Antiquing Getaway
Antiquing is only part of what makes Stillwater special. Between shopping stops, visitors can enjoy plenty of things to do in Stillwater. Walking across the historic Lift Bridge offers sweeping views of the St. Croix River, while river cruises provide a relaxing way to see the town from the water. Downtown dining, wine bars, and live music venues add an easy rhythm to evenings after a day of exploring.
Choosing the right accommodations elevates the experience. Staying at one of the Romantic Hotels in MN located along the river allows guests to step directly into Downtown Stillwater and walk to many of the best antique stores. Spacious suites, on-site dining, and river views create a natural extension of the town’s historic charm. After a full day of browsing Stillwater antique stores, returning to a comfortable, historic hotel makes the getaway feel complete.
For travelers seeking antique stores near Minneapolis that truly justify an overnight stay, Stillwater offers a unique blend of shopping, scenery, and relaxed sophistication.
The Best Stops on State Street in Madison
Your Walking Guide to State Street in Madison
A visit to State Street in Madison is one of the best ways to experience the character of Wisconsin’s capital city. Stretching between the University of Wisconsin campus and the Wisconsin State Capitol, this pedestrian-friendly district combines shopping, dining, arts, and entertainment into one walkable destination. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to discover something new, State Street offers plenty of opportunities for couples looking to enjoy the heart of downtown Madison.
Originally redesigned in 1974 to prioritize pedestrians, State Street has become one of the city’s most recognizable gathering places. Wide sidewalks make it easy to browse locally owned shops, stop for coffee, admire public art, and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by students, residents, and visitors year-round. It is no surprise that the district remains one of the top things to do in Madison, Wisconsin.
Begin your visit on the University of Wisconsin campus, then make your way through Library Mall and onto State Street. Along the way, you’ll find independent retailers such as Anthology, Little Luxuries, University Book Store, The Soap Opera, and Fontana Sports, each offering a unique glimpse into the personality of State Street, Madison, Wisconsin.
When it’s time to take a break, choose from a variety of local restaurants in Madison before continuing your exploration. Later in the day, enjoy lunch at Forage Kitchen, grab a slice at Ian’s Pizza, or stop by Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream for a sweet treat. Art lovers should make time for the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, while an evening performance at the Overture Center for the Arts provides the perfect ending to a day in the city.
Stay at a Cozy Bed and Breakfast in Madison
After exploring everything State Street has to offer, return to the comfort of The Buckingham Inn. Located within walking distance of the district, this locally-owned Bed and Breakfast in Madison provides a relaxing retreat with spacious accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and welcoming hospitality. From a freshly prepared breakfast to personalized recommendations from your hosts, every stay is designed to help you experience the very best of Madison.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend escape, a university event, or a couples getaway, you’ll enjoy convenient access to many of the city’s most popular destinations. Book your stay today and discover why The Buckingham Inn is the ideal home base for exploring State Street.