What To See & Do

Scenic Day Trips to Oregon Coast Lighthouses

For more than 150 years, Oregon Coast lighthouses have marked the line between land and sea along Highway 101, and a drive south from Arch Cape covers some of the best of them. The coastline itself is reason enough to make the trip, but these historic towers add a layer of history and maritime lore that turns a scenic drive into a proper Oregon Coast road trip. It’s just the beginning of the best things to do on the Oregon Coast.

First Stop: Tillamook Rock Lighthouse From Ecola State Park

You do not even need to leave the neighborhood for your first stop. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, nicknamed “Terrible Tilly,” sits on a basalt sea stack about a mile offshore between Seaside and Cannon Beach. First lit in 1881 after a grueling, nearly two-year construction effort, it earned its nickname through hundred-mile-per-hour storms and supply runs winched up from passing ships. The light was decommissioned in 1957 and later served briefly as a private columbarium before being left to seabirds and sea lions.

You cannot walk out to Tilly, but the Clatsop Loop Trail in Ecola State Park, an easy 2.9-mile round trip, offers framed views through the trees. Southern viewpoints at Ecola State Park and pullouts on Highway 101 just north of Cannon Beach make this one of the easiest Cannon Beach lighthouse views on the coast, and a good leg stretch before the drive continues.

Cape Meares, the Shortest of the Oregon Lighthouses

Continue south on 101 toward Tillamook, then follow the Three Capes Scenic Loop to Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, roughly an hour from Arch Cape. At 38 feet, Cape Meares is the shortest of the Oregon lighthouses, but the 200-foot cliff it sits on makes up the difference. Built in 1890, it still holds its original Fresnel lens, handcrafted in Paris, which once projected light 21 nautical miles out to sea. A short, paved path leads to the lighthouse and gift shop, with views of the Three Arch Rocks refuge and the wind-sculpted Octopus Tree. Admission is free.

Newport’s Twin Lighthouses

For a full day trip, continue to Newport, about two and a half to three hours from Arch Cape and one of the more interesting Oregon coastal cities for lighthouse history, since it holds two within a few miles of each other. Yaquina Head Lighthouse, at 93 feet, is the tallest in Oregon, first lit in 1873, and remains an active aid to navigation, with guided tours up its spiral stairs. Yaquina Bay Lighthouse, near the south end of town, operated only from 1871 to 1874 and is the only Oregon lighthouse where the keeper’s quarters and light tower share one building. It now operates as a small, donation-based museum.

Oregon Coast Hotels for a Quiet Stay

A round trip from Arch Cape to Newport and back runs roughly 210 miles, so give the day room to breathe rather than racing the clock. Start each morning with a gourmet breakfast at Arch Cape Inn before heading out, and consider splitting the drive: a half-day version covering Tillamook Rock and Cape Meares, or a full-day version taking in all four stops with an early dinner in Newport. This Oregon Coast hotel is set back on a wooded, garden property near Cannon Beach. It’s a great starting point or a welcome back spot after a full day on Highway 101.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many lighthouses are on the Oregon Coast?
Oregon has several historic lighthouses along its coastline, including Tillamook Rock, Cape Meares, Yaquina Head, and Yaquina Bay, all reachable by driving south from the Arch Cape area.

Can you visit Tillamook Rock Lighthouse?
No. Tillamook Rock Lighthouse sits offshore on its own sea stack and is not open to visitors, but it is visible from Ecola State Park and nearby Highway 101 pullouts.

Where is Cape Meares Lighthouse?
Cape Meares is located along the Three Capes Scenic Loop near Tillamook, about an hour south of Arch Cape, with free admission and a short paved path to the site.

Where should I stay for an Oregon Coast road trip near these lighthouses?
Arch Cape Inn offers a convenient home base near Cannon Beach, close enough to reach each lighthouse stop while offering a quiet, garden setting to return to at the end of the day.

Cor Cellars: A Wine Lover’s Essential Stop in the Columbia River Gorge

Cor Cellars has become one of the defining stops in Washington State wineries, and for good reason. The winery sits above the Columbia River in Lyle, Washington, with views of Mt. Hood and the Cascade range that make the tasting itself feel secondary to the setting, at least until the first pour arrives. For anyone building a wine weekend around wineries in the Columbia Gorge, Cor Cellars is the kind of stop that anchors the whole trip.

Founded by Luke Bradford, who began planting vines on the estate property in Lyle before partnering with Meg Gilbert in 2011, Cor Cellars has grown into a producer with a clear identity. The winery focuses on white and sparkling wine varietals grown in the Columbia Gorge AVA, while its reds are sourced from the warmer growing regions of Horse Heaven Hills and the Yakima Valley. That split gives visitors a tasting flight that actually tells a story about Washington wine country rather than just working through a generic list.

What to Expect at the Cor Cellars Tasting Room

The tasting room, designed by Seattle firm goCstudio and completed in 2016, was built around the view as much as the wine. Large windows and a shaded courtyard overlook the hills and cliffs of the Gorge, and an indoor fireplace keeps the space comfortable once the weather turns. The winery produces around 5,000 cases a year, a scale that keeps the tasting room personal rather than crowded.

Open Wednesday through Monday, with seatings typically running from late morning through mid-afternoon in the tasting room and courtyard. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends, and the winery is happy to accommodate walk-ins by text when space allows. Guests who fall for the wines on a first visit often join the Cor Cellars wine club, which is one of the simplest ways to keep a taste of the Gorge coming home with you between trips.

Your Home Base for a Columbia Gorge Wine Getaway

A day built around wine tasting deserves a luxurious place to unwind afterward, and that is exactly what Carson Ridge Luxury Cabins offers. Our private cabins sit in the forest about an hour from Lyle, close enough to reach Cor Cellars and the rest of the Gorge’s wineries without a long drive, but far enough into the trees to feel like a true escape. Each cabin includes a jetted tub, a gas fireplace, and a private porch, the kind of quiet, romantic setting that turns a wine tasting into a full getaway. Add in a hot breakfast delivered to your cabin each morning, and you have a home base built for exactly this trip.

Cor Cellars is also an easy addition to a longer day of Gorge wine tasting. Wineries in the Columbia Gorge tend to sit close together on the Washington side, so a stop at Cor Cellars pairs naturally with a second or third tasting before you head back to unwind for the evening. Whether it’s wine or waterfalls you are chasing, there are so many things to do in the Columbia River Gorge.

Whether you are visiting Washington State wineries for the first time or you already know the Gorge well, Cor Cellars earns its place on the itinerary. Book your Cor Cellars reservation, then reserve one of the best Columbia River Gorge cabins for the kind of romantic wine country weekend that a hotel room simply cannot match.

Best Waterman Things to Do in Rock Hall MD

Rock Hall, Maryland, offers a direct connection to the Waterman culture that defines the Chesapeake Bay. Along this stretch of the Eastern Shore Maryland coast, watermen continue to harvest blue crab, oysters, and fish using techniques shaped by generations of experience. Understanding what a waterman is begins with seeing how daily life here still revolves around the tides, working boats, and the steady rhythm of the Bay.

Summer is an ideal time to explore the many things to do in Rock Hall that highlight this heritage. Start your visit at the Watermen’s Museum, where exhibits feature traditional tools, historic photographs, and authentic workboats that illustrate the lives of the original watermen. From there, head onto the water with a charter fishing trip led by a licensed captain or plan a relaxed sunset sail across the Chesapeake Bay. Kayaking along the Chester River offers another perspective, with quiet shoreline views and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Back on land, cycling through Rock Hall reveals marinas, seafood docks, and glimpses of commercial boats returning with the day’s catch. Local restaurants serve fresh seafood sourced directly from nearby waters, offering a clear connection between the work of the watermen and the region’s cuisine. A visit to Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge adds a natural dimension to your weekend, with birding trails and scenic coastal landscapes.

Rock Hall, MD Bed and Breakfast

A stay at a Rock Hall, MD Bed and Breakfast provides a comfortable base for exploring the coast. The property spans 70 acres of open fields, wooded paths, and waterfront views, offering quiet walks and time to unwind. Guests can choose from five guest suites, seven private cottages, or a vacation rental in town, allowing flexibility based on travel preferences.

Each stay includes thoughtful amenities such as complimentary wine or beer, freshly baked treats, and a homemade breakfast served each morning. On warm summer afternoons, the saltwater pool offers a refreshing place to relax between outings. With its blend of privacy, comfort, and access to local experiences, this Rock Hall, MD Bed and Breakfast is the ideal home base for getaway focused on the traditions of the Watermen.

Best of What to Do in Albuquerque This Winter

Winter brings a refreshing calm to the city, making it one of the most enjoyable times to explore what to do in Albuquerque. Crisp mornings, sunny afternoons, and fewer crowds create the perfect conditions for discovering both outdoor scenery and cultural highlights. Snow-dusted mountain views frame the city while historic neighborhoods and museums feel more relaxed and inviting.

Start your winter visit in Old Town, where adobe-lined streets, local shops, and museums are easy to explore without the rush of peak travel seasons. This area is a cornerstone of Albuquerque’s history and one of the best places to visit in New Mexico during the winter. Nearby, downtown Albuquerque adds galleries, dining, and walkable city energy, all just minutes away.

Outdoor adventures are never far. The Sandia Peak Tramway offers sweeping views as it rises from the desert floor to alpine terrain in under 15 minutes. Winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or simply taking in panoramic views before returning to mild city temperatures below. Hot air balloon rides also continue through winter, offering calm morning skies and unforgettable views of the surrounding landscape.

Indoor attractions round out the season nicely. The Indian Pueblo Cultural Center provides insight into Pueblo history and art, while museums like the Anderson Abruzzo Albuquerque International Balloon Museum and the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science offer engaging options on cooler days. These New Mexico attractions make winter travel both comfortable and enriching.

Relax with Albuquerque Lodging in Old Town

After a full day of exploring things to do in Albuquerque, returning to comfortable Albuquerque Lodging makes the experience even better. Staying in Old Town places you close to historic sites while offering a quiet retreat at the end of the day. Guest rooms at our Albuquerque Lodging offer a mix of comfort and character, giving you a restful night before your next day’s adventures. Comfortable bedding, private baths, and historic details set the tone for a relaxing stay.

Mornings begin with a fresh, homemade breakfast before heading out to explore our fine city! With this Albuquerque Lodging property as your home base, you’ll be set and ready to head out and explore. Whether your plans include mountain views, museums, or dining nearby, winter is a rewarding season to slow down and enjoy Albuquerque at its best.

Best Things to Do in Cedarburg WI This Weekend

Cedarburg, Wisconsin offers a well-rounded escape for couples seeking a romantic Midwest getaway filled with history, culture, and walkable charm. Located just a short drive from West Bend, this destination is known for its preserved 19th-century architecture, vibrant downtown Cedarburg, and a steady calendar of Cedarburg events that bring energy to every visit.

One of the most popular things to do in Cedarburg WI is simply exploring downtown. The area is lined with limestone buildings that now house independent boutiques, art galleries, and locally owned restaurants. This walkable setting makes it easy to spend hours browsing shops, discovering local art, and enjoying a relaxed afternoon together.

Cedarburg festivals are another highlight. Seasonal events such as the Strawberry Festival and Wine and Harvest Festival transform the streets into lively gathering spaces filled with food vendors, music, and artisan goods. These Cedarburg events provide a unique way to experience the town’s community and creativity.

For a quieter experience, couples can walk along Cedar Creek or explore the Ozaukee Interurban Trail, which offers a scenic route through the area. Cultural stops like the Cedarburg Art Museum and the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts add depth to your visit with rotating exhibits and regional craftsmanship.

Wine and craft beverage experiences are also among the top things to do in Cedarburg WI. Cedar Creek Winery, located in a restored woolen mill, offers tastings in a distinctive setting, while nearby breweries and distilleries provide additional options for a relaxed afternoon.

Romantic Lodging Near Cedarburg Wisconsin

After a day exploring Cedarburg, return to a nearby Bed and Breakfast Wisconsin designed for connection and comfort. Guests can enjoy private wooded trails, quiet evenings by the fire, and thoughtfully designed guest rooms that prioritize rest and privacy.

Mornings begin with a gourmet breakfast, while evenings offer time to unwind with a complimentary spa experience that includes a steam room, sauna, hot tub, and cold deluge. Optional services such as massages and facials allow you to further personalize your stay.

From downtown Cedarburg to peaceful evenings back at your lodging, this experience combines activity and relaxation, making it one of the best romantic getaways in the Midwest.