What To See & Do

Best Mississippi Blues Trail Stops in Vicksburg

The Mississippi Blues Trail offers one of the most fascinating road trips in the USA, guiding visitors through the places, people, and stories that shaped American music. As the recognized birthplace of the blues, Mississippi is home to nearly 200 markers that celebrate the musicians, venues, and cultural landmarks connected to this influential genre. For those interested in Mississippi blues music, history, and culture, Vicksburg is an essential stop along the journey.

Located along the legendary Blues Highway, Vicksburg features six Mississippi Blues Trail markers that showcase the city’s deep connection to the evolution of the blues. Each marker highlights a unique chapter in the story of Mississippi blues. Visitors can learn about The Blue Room, a renowned entertainment venue that welcomed artists such as B.B. King, Ray Charles, Louis Armstrong, and Fats Domino. Highway 61, often referred to as the Blues Highway, played a vital role in connecting musicians throughout the region and helped spread the sounds of the Mississippi Delta across the country.

Additional trail stops explore the history of Marcus Bottom, once a thriving center of African American culture and music, as well as the legacy of Vicksburg native Willie Dixon, one of the most influential songwriters in blues history. The trail also honors The Red Tops and Dr. Bill Ferris, whose work preserving Mississippi blues music continues to influence future generations.

After a day exploring the Mississippi Blues Trail, Vicksburg offers plenty of opportunities to continue the experience. Visitors can stroll through the historic downtown district, visit Vicksburg National Military Park, or enjoy live performances at local venues throughout the city. Evening entertainment at locations such as Bottleneck Blues Bar, Key City Brewery, 10 South Rooftop, and The Roof at 1311 helps bring the spirit of the blues to life.

Stay at a Hotel Vicksburg MS Visitors Love

When it is time to relax, Oak Hall provides an exceptional home base for your unique southern getaway. As a distinguished Hotel Vicksburg MS travelers appreciate for its historic character and personalized hospitality, the property combines preserved Southern architecture with modern comforts. Guests seeking luxury hotels in Vicksburg MS will find elegant accommodations, attentive service, and a convenient location near many of the Vicksburg’s popular attractions. Whether you are planning a Mississippi Blues Trail road trip or exploring places to visit in Mississippi, Oak Hall offers a memorable stay in the heart of Vicksburg.

Bluebird Cafe Nashville Experience for Music Lovers

For an authentic Music City experience, few places compare to Bluebird Cafe Nashville. Hidden within the Green Hills neighborhood, this legendary listening room has earned an international reputation by spotlighting the songwriters behind some of country music’s biggest hits. While Nashville is filled with outstanding live music, the Bluebird offers something distinctly different, making it one of the best music venues in Nashville for visitors who appreciate the stories behind the songs.

Since opening in 1982, Bluebird Cafe has helped launch the careers of countless artists and songwriters. Before becoming household names, performers such as Garth Brooks and Taylor Swift appeared on this intimate stage. Today, the venue continues that tradition by showcasing established writers alongside rising talent in an atmosphere where every lyric takes center stage. It’s one of the most iconic places to visit in Nashville.

Unlike many music venues in Nashville visitors encounter downtown, the Bluebird is a dedicated listening room. Audience members are expected to give performers their full attention, creating an experience that feels personal and remarkably immersive. The venue is especially known for its “In the Round” performances, where four songwriters sit together in the center of the room, taking turns performing original songs while sharing the inspiration and stories behind each one. The result is an evening filled with exceptional musicianship, humor, and memorable moments.

Because Bluebird Nashville is one of the city’s most sought-after venues, planning ahead is essential. Tickets are available exclusively through the Bluebird Cafe’s official website, and many performances sell out quickly. Visitors who are unable to secure advance reservations may have an opportunity to purchase a limited number of walk-up seats for select performances, making an early arrival worthwhile.

Stay at this Historic Bed and Breakfast in Nashville

After an unforgettable evening of live music in Nashville, return to the timeless elegance of Belle Air Mansion. Located just minutes from downtown, our historic Bed and Breakfast in Nashville offers beautifully appointed guest rooms, gracious Southern hospitality, and a peaceful setting away from the city’s busiest streets. Begin each morning with a freshly prepared Southern breakfast before setting out to experience Nashville’s renowned dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re planning a unique Southern getaway or a weekend devoted to live music, Belle Air Mansion & Inn provides the perfect home base. Reserve your stay today.

Best Santuario de Chimayo Day Trip From Santa Fe

A Santa Fe vacation offers couples and curious travelers the chance to explore art, history, and culture together in a way that feels personal and lasting. One of the most meaningful Santa Fe day trips takes you north to Santuario de Chimayo, a site that continues to shape spiritual and cultural traditions across Northern New Mexico. Whether this is your first visit or a return journey, Santuario de Chimayo offers a unique getaway experience rooted in heritage, faith, and place.

Located about 30 minutes from Santa Fe, Chimayo, NM feels worlds away. The drive from Santa Fe to Chimayo passes historic farming villages and high desert landscapes that define the Southwest. Arriving at the Chimayo church, the centuries-old adobe architecture and quiet surroundings immediately set the tone for reflection and discovery.

The history of Santuario de Chimayo dates back to the early 1800s and centers on a long-held story of a glowing crucifix discovered in the earth. Over time, el Santuario de Chimayo holy dirt became an important part of spiritual tradition. Many visitors come to learn how to use holy dirt from Chimayo respectfully, while others simply observe the rituals that continue to take place every day.

The Chimayo pilgrimage remains one of the most significant religious journeys in the region, particularly during Holy Week. Thousands walk from Santa Cruz de la Cañada to Santuario de Chimayo as an act of devotion, gratitude, or remembrance. Outside of pilgrimage season, visitors can still witness quiet moments of faith and connect with the living traditions that make this site so meaningful.

There are plenty of things to do in Chimayo beyond the church itself. Stop by Ortega’s Weaving Shop or Centinela Traditional Arts, enjoy a classic Northern New Mexico meal at Rancho de Chimayo, or take time to explore the surrounding valley for photography and scenic drives.

Stay at a Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast After Your Chimayo Visit

After a day spent at Santuario de Chimayo, returning to a welcoming Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast adds depth to the experience. Our inn offers thoughtfully designed suites, local art, and a calm atmosphere that invites you to slow down. With a central location near the top things to do in Santa Fe, inviting patios, and a gourmet breakfast each morning, it is easy to recharge while staying connected to the city. Plan your stay and experience one of the most rewarding Santa Fe day trips paired with a place that feels like home.

Best Sequim Farmers Market Weekend in the Pacific Northwest

The Sequim Farmers Market offers a defining experience of the Olympic Peninsula, bringing together local agriculture, artisan goods, and a vibrant community atmosphere from spring through fall. Set in downtown Sequim, the market runs on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., creating an ideal starting point for a well-planned weekend. Visitors can browse colorful vendor booths filled with seasonal produce, baked goods, and handcrafted items while enjoying the consistent sunshine that makes this region of the Pacific Northwest distinct.

Exploring the Sequim Farmers Market introduces visitors to the people behind the region’s agricultural success. Tables feature rotating selections of fruits and vegetables, from early-season berries and greens to late-summer tomatoes, squash, and herbs. Prepared food vendors offer pastries, breads, and ready-to-eat options that make for a relaxed morning meal. Artisan goods such as pottery, jewelry, and woodwork add variety, giving the market the feel of both a food destination and an outdoor gallery.

Beyond the market, there are many things to do in Sequim that complement a weekend visit. Nearby Sunny Farms Country Store provides year-round access to local produce, meats, and seafood, while Nash’s Farm Stand highlights the reputation of Farms in Sequim with its grains, vegetables, and responsibly raised products. Outdoor experiences are equally accessible, with Dungeness Bay offering kayaking and shoreline walks, and Olympic National Park providing easy access to mountains and coastal scenery. Downtown Sequim adds to the experience with local shops, cafes, and seasonal events that reflect the region’s character.

Hotel in Sequim

Choosing the right Hotel in Sequim enhances the overall experience of a farmers market weekend. A waterfront stay along Dungeness Bay offers direct beach access and views of the surrounding landscape, creating a natural extension of the day’s activities. Guests can unwind in a hot tub, relax in a jetted tub, or enjoy a private porch overlooking the shoreline.

Thoughtful amenities, such as in-room kitchens, make it easy to prepare meals using fresh market finds, while optional add-ons like breakfast delivery or romance packages add convenience and personalization. Offering, pet-friendly accommodations and access to kayak or paddleboard rentals to enjoy at a private beach. Booking a stay nearby allows visitors to fully enjoy both the Sequim Farmers Market and the best things to do in Sequim throughout a weekend getaway from Seattle.

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.