What To See & Do
Why Spring is Great for Weekend Getaways in Iowa
Explore the Best Weekend Getaways in Iowa This Spring
Spring in the Midwest brings a sense of renewal, making it the perfect time to plan weekend getaways in Iowa. As the snow melts and landscapes turn vibrant green and bright. Charming river towns, lively cities, and scenic countrysides create an inviting backdrop for a refreshing escape. There are so many things to explore in Iowa!
If you are mapping out an Iowa road trip, start with the state’s hidden gem small towns. Albia offers striking Victorian architecture and easy access to hiking trails and Lake Rathbun. In Pella, Dutch heritage shines through its windmill, tulip gardens, and locally owned bakeries. Decorah surprises visitors with limestone bluffs, trout streams, and cultural experiences rooted in Norwegian history. Along the Mississippi River, Clinton’s riverfront trails and historic downtown make it an ideal stop for a relaxed spring weekend.
Larger destinations also deliver memorable things to do in Iowa. Des Moines offers the vibrant East Village, the downtown Farmers Market, and renowned Iowa attractions like Blank Park Zoo. Dubuque pairs river views with historic charm, including the Fenelon Place Elevator and easy access to scenic overlooks. For a lakeside retreat, Okoboji begins to buzz in spring as trails reopen and the deep blue waters draw visitors back outdoors.
Whether you are searching for romantic getaways in Iowa or planning activities in Iowa this weekend with friends, the variety of places to visit makes it easy to customize your trip. Outdoor enthusiasts, food lovers, and culture seekers will all find something that fits their style.
Discover Unique Places to Stay in Iowa
An important element of the best weekend getaways in Iowa is where you stay. Unique places to stay in Iowa, especially locally owned Bed and Breakfasts, offer personalized hospitality and thoughtfully prepared breakfasts. These welcoming properties often reflect the character of their communities and provide insider recommendations on nearby Iowa attractions.
Spring is your invitation to explore somewhere new. Plan your weekend getaways in Iowa, chart your route, and book a stay that turns a simple trip into a memorable one.
Why the Shalom Wildlife Zoo Is Wisconsin’s Most Extraordinary Zoo Experience
A Wildlife Adventure Right Across the Street
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo is a stretch of Wisconsin woodland where wolves, elk, and tigers roam along four miles of wooded trails, and every turn brings you closer to them. It also happens to sit directly across the street from our front door. Longtime locals still know it as the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, and that name tells you something about the experience. This is not a place of concrete enclosures. Four miles of roads wind through woods and open meadows, and you can explore them on foot or from a rented golf cart during the regular season, making it a genuine wildlife adventure rather than a typical zoo visit.
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo may be the closest attraction, but plenty of others sit within a short drive. Our corner of Washington County puts you minutes from the Kettle Moraine State Forest’s hiking and biking trails, the Eisenbahn State Trail, and the Museum of Wisconsin Art downtown. When guests ask about things to do in West Bend, WI, we never run short of suggestions. The area deserves a full weekend, with mornings at the Shalom Wildlife Zoo, afternoons on the trails, and evenings in town.
And when the day winds down after visiting the best Wisconsin zoo, you are one crosswalk from comfort. Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast offers privacy, a delicious multi-course breakfast, and an in-house spa waiting after a day outside.
Experience the Shalom Wildlife Zoo Like a Local
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo has been part of West Bend since 1979, and it still runs more like a sanctuary than a traditional zoo. The zoo consistently earns outstanding visitor reviews and has become one of the area’s most popular wildlife attractions. The reason becomes obvious about five minutes in. A four-mile trail loops through woods and open meadows, and the animals live in large natural habitats rather than traditional exhibits. The visit is more like a hike to see the animals than a typical Wisconsin zoo visit.
The residents are the reason to visit the Shalom Wildlife Zoo. Elk herds rest in the grass, wolves watch from wooded hillsides, and tigers, cougars, zebras, and even capybaras appear as the trail unwinds. Down at the petting zoo, feed is available for getting face-to-face with the friendlier animals. The staff is always happy to answer questions about the animals, conservation efforts, and the history of the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, making the experience as educational as it is entertaining.
A little planning makes the day easy. During the main season, which runs from mid-April through early November, the Shalom Zoo is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with the last entry an hour and a half before closing. Plan on an entry fee, with children two and under free.
A leisurely walk through the sanctuary typically takes two to three hours, and if you would rather ride, three-hour golf cart rentals cover the same ground with less effort. Carts are rented for a fee beyond admission, seat up to four, and are first come, first served, so arrive early on summer weekends. You will not need to pack a lunch, either. The Grizzly Grill sits near the zoo entrance, and the Little Tiger’s snack area waits at the midpoint of the trail, perfectly timed for a break. Either way you travel, wear comfortable shoes, since personal vehicles are not permitted on the trail during this season.
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo does not hibernate, either. During the annual Christmas at the Zoo celebration, guests can drive the trail from the warmth of their own vehicles and experience festive displays. Seasonal winter events and operating hours vary each year, so check the dates before you visit. Whatever the season, plan on spending at least three hours exploring this unique West Bend zoo.
Rest Easy at a Top-Rated Bed and Breakfast Wisconsin Getaway
The best part of a day at the Shalom Wildlife Zoo is how it ends. Cross the street, and you are back at Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast. Detox in the steam room, brave the cold deluge shower, then settle into the hot tub or sauna in our private spa. Book a massage ahead of your stay, and it is waiting when the trail dust settles. Prefer to stay outside? Check out our property, which holds a 1.3-mile wooded hiking trail and lighted pickleball court. Each of our luxury guest rooms offers additional comfort with wooded views, fine linens, and amenities such as jetted tubs and cozy fireplaces.
Morning brings the best part of your stay. A gourmet breakfast is served fresh each day, often with maple syrup that we tap from trees right on the property.
Book Your Wildlife Adventure Today
Start planning your West Bend getaway at the Bed and Breakfast Wisconsin visitors choose for a relaxing wildlife adventure. Book your stay at Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Shalom Wildlife Zoo?
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo sits in West Bend, Wisconsin, directly across the street from Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast in Washington County.
How much are Shalom Wildlife Zoo tickets?
Shalom Wildlife Zoo charges an entry fee per visitor, with children two and under admitted free; golf cart rentals are available for an additional fee.
When did the Shalom Wildlife Zoo open?
The Shalom Wildlife Zoo, originally known as the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, has been part of West Bend since 1979.
Where should you stay near the Shalom Wildlife Zoo?
Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast sits directly across the street from the Shalom Wildlife Zoo, making it the closest lodging option for a West Bend wildlife adventure.
Why Visit Red Wing, MN, for a Midwest Getaway
Plan a Unique Midwest Getaway to Red Wing, MN
Set along the Mississippi River and framed by dramatic limestone bluffs, Red Wing, MN, stands out as one of the Midwest’s most visually compelling small towns. Whether you are planning a quick escape or a longer retreat, there is no shortage of unique things to do in Red Wing. It’s also an excellent destination for romantic getaways in the Midwest!
Start with the iconic Barn Bluff, locally known as He Mni Can. The moderately challenging hike rewards you with sweeping views of the Mississippi River and historic downtown below. It is one of the most photographed spots in Red Wing, Minnesota, and a must for anyone who enjoys time outdoors.
Downtown is compact, walkable, and filled with character. If you are wondering what to do in Red Wing, MN, beyond the trails, spend time shopping in Red Wing’s independently owned boutiques and galleries. You will find antiques, specialty foods, locally made goods, and outdoor gear housed inside beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings.
Red Wing, Minnesota, is also known for craftsmanship. The flagship Red Wing Shoe Store features the world’s largest boot and a small museum celebrating the brand’s heritage. Nearby, the Pottery Museum of Red Wing highlights the city’s historic role in American stoneware production and offers insight into its artistic legacy.
Levee Park provides easy access to the riverfront, where you can stroll, picnic, or watch boats drift by. In the evening, explore fantastic Red Wing restaurants offering everything from casual comfort food to chef-driven menus featuring regional ingredients.
Unique Places to Stay in Minnesota
To make your unique Midwest getaway even more memorable, book one of the locally owned Minnesota Bed and Breakfasts in Red Wing. Many located in historic homes provide personalized hospitality, thoughtfully prepared breakfasts, and insider recommendations on the best things to do in Red Wing. For couples or those seeking a distinctive stay, a Bed and Breakfast offers comfort and connection that larger lodging options simply cannot replicate.
Red Wing, MN, combines river views, rich history, and a vibrant downtown into one unforgettable destination. Plan your visit and experience this Midwest gem for yourself.
Why You Should Explore the Hoh Rainforest This Summer
Explore the Hoh Rainforest on the Olympic Coast
Summer is one of the best times to experience the Hoh Rainforest, one of the most recognized natural destinations within Olympic National Park. Located on Washington’s Olympic Coast, this remarkable Washington rainforest attracts visitors with towering old-growth trees, vibrant greenery, and scenic trails that showcase the unique beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
The Hoh Rainforest receives an average of 140 inches of rainfall annually, creating a thriving ecosystem filled with Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, western red cedar, and moss-covered bigleaf maples. During the summer season, cooler temperatures beneath the forest canopy provide a refreshing escape while allowing visitors to comfortably explore the area’s most popular trails.
A visit often begins at the Hoh Rainforest Visitor Center, where guests can learn more about the forest’s ecology, current trail conditions, and wildlife. From there, visitors can set out on some of the most popular Hoh Rainforest hikes. The Hall of Mosses Trail remains a favorite thanks to its easy 0.8-mile loop through old-growth forest lined with hanging moss and towering trees. The Spruce Nature Trail offers another scenic option, winding alongside Taft Creek and the Hoh River through a diverse landscape of mature and younger forest growth.
Olympic National Park Lodging Near the Hoh Rainforest
For travelers seeking a deeper wilderness experience, portions of the Hoh River Trail provide access to remote sections of Olympic National Park, with opportunities to enjoy stunning views and abundant wildlife. Roosevelt elk are commonly seen throughout the rainforest, while birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts may also spot river otters, black bears, salamanders, and numerous bird species.
The best time to visit Hoh Rainforest during summer is often early in the morning when parking is more readily available, and trails are quieter. Visitors traveling from Port Angeles to Hoh Rainforest can enjoy a scenic drive through some of the Olympic Peninsula’s most impressive landscapes, creating opportunities to extend the day with additional sightseeing throughout the region.
After exploring the Olympic National Park rainforest, return to comfortable Olympic National Park lodging in Sequim or Port Angeles. Our vacation rentals offer privacy, convenience, and easy access to the peninsula’s top attractions. Whether you choose a treehouse getaway or a spacious vacation home, you will be perfectly positioned to experience the beauty of the Hoh Rainforest and the Olympic Coast this summer. Book your stay today.
Wine Tasting & Fun Festivals at Mount Hope Estate in PA
Best Things to Do at Mount Hope Estate
Mount Hope Estate stands out as one of the most distinctive destinations in eastern Pennsylvania, offering a blend of history, entertainment, and craft beverage experiences. Located in Lancaster County, the estate is widely recognized for its immersive events, including the Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire, as well as year-round festivals and tastings at Mount Hope Estate & Winery. Visitors often arrive expecting a single attraction and quickly realize the property offers an entire day, or even a full weekend, of activities.
The estate’s history dates back more than 200 years, when it served as the home and operational center for the Grubb iron dynasty. Today, the preserved Federal-style mansion and surrounding grounds provide a glimpse into early American industry and architecture. The formal gardens, inspired by traditional English designs, remain one of the most notable features, offering a structured landscape that reflects the estate’s early 19th-century origins.
Mount Hope Estate events are a major draw throughout the year. The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire transforms the grounds into a lively 16th-century village, complete with costumed performers, artisan vendors, and jousting tournaments. Additional events, including the Celtic Fling and themed dinner theater experiences, ensure there is always something new to experience. Guests can also enjoy tastings at Mount Hope Winery, Swashbuckler Brewing Company, and other on-site producers, making it easy to explore local flavors in one location. It’s just one of the best things to do in PA!
Top-Rated Bed and Breakfast in Pennsylvania
Extending your visit allows for a more relaxed experience. The South Mountain Inn is an incredible Bed and Breakfast in Pennsylvania that complements a day at Mount Hope Estate. The property nearby offers a quiet retreat with views of the surrounding countryside. It also has a reputation for being one of the most romantic wedding venues near Philadelphia!
Guests can return from a day of exploring to thoughtful amenities, including afternoon refreshments, comfortable accommodations, and a peaceful atmosphere. Its proximity to Mount Hope Estate and other attractions near Reading, PA, makes it a convenient and well-rounded place to stay.
With its combination of historic significance, engaging events, and local food and drink, Mount Hope Estate remains one of the most unique attractions in Pennsylvania. Whether visiting for a festival or a weekend getaway, it offers an experience that continues to draw visitors year after year.
Wine Tasting at Massbach Ridge in Galena, Illinois
Best Massbach Ridge Winery Guide for Couples in Galena
Massbach Ridge Winery offers one of the most enjoyable wine tasting experiences in northwest Illinois, making it a popular stop for couples exploring Galena wineries. With both a scenic vineyard near Elizabeth and a convenient tasting room in downtown Galena, visitors can experience local wines in two unique settings during a single getaway.
Located about 20 miles from Galena, the vineyard provides a countryside setting where guests can sample estate-grown wines while overlooking rolling vineyards and rural landscapes. Outdoor seating areas invite visitors to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the slower pace of the region. Since opening in 2003, Massbach Ridge Winery has expanded from a small vineyard into one of the area’s best-known wineries, producing more than 20 varieties of wine. Favorites such as Massbach Stomp, Sunset Rosé, and Vignoles continue to attract visitors seeking an authentic Galena wine tasting experience.
Guests can enjoy guided tastings, casual wine flights, vineyard walks, and seasonal events throughout the year. Live music performances, grape harvest celebrations, and the annual grape stomp provide additional opportunities to experience the winery beyond a traditional tasting. Guided tours also offer insight into the winemaking process while showcasing the vineyard’s history and growth.
A Luxury Galena Bed and Breakfast Near the Winery
For visitors planning a couples getaway, Jail Hill Inn provides an exceptional home base near both Massbach Ridge Winery and downtown Galena. Located inside the historic former Jo Daviess County Jail, this luxury Galena bed and breakfast combines historic architecture with modern comfort and personalized hospitality.
Guests enjoy spacious suites featuring king-sized beds, premium linens, and thoughtfully appointed accommodations. Each morning begins with a three-course breakfast prepared from scratch using locally sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, guests can enjoy a wine and cheese reception featuring charcuterie, artisan cheeses, fresh fruit, homemade cookies, and a bottle of wine delivered directly to their room.
The downtown Massbach Winery tasting room is just a short walk from Jail Hill Inn, allowing guests to continue their Galena wine tasting experience without leaving town. Combined with nearby restaurants, shopping, historic attractions, and scenic drives, Massbach Ridge Winery remains one of the best things to do in Galena for couples seeking a memorable Midwest getaway. Book your stay at Jail Hill Inn and experience the best of Galena wine country.
Winter in Galena Means Skiing at Chestnut Mountain
Best of Winter at Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort
Just a few hours from Chicago, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort delivers one of the most exciting winter adventures in Illinois. Perched high above the Mississippi River Valley in Galena, this mountain-style resort offers a refreshing change of pace for Midwest travelers craving snow, elevation, and outdoor fun without long-distance travel.
Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort is known for its impressive terrain by Illinois standards, featuring 19 runs across more than 3,500 feet of skiable terrain. From beginner-friendly slopes to challenging black diamond trails, the resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders of all experience levels. A 475-foot vertical drop, consistent snowmaking, and well-groomed runs create reliable conditions throughout the winter season, making it one of the top destinations for skiing in Illinois and a favorite for those seeking skiing near Chicago.
Beyond the slopes, Chestnut Mountain adds to the adventure with night skiing, terrain parks, and scenic overlooks that showcase sweeping river views. Cozy dining spots and warming areas make it easy to recharge between runs, whether you’re planning a full weekend or a spontaneous winter escape.
Galena itself enhances the experience with its historic downtown, lively Main Street, and variety of things to do in winter. After a day on the mountain, visitors can explore local boutiques, enjoy wine tastings, or dine at inviting restaurants that highlight the town’s character. Outdoor enthusiasts can extend the adventure with winter hiking at nearby preserves or scenic drives through rolling countryside dusted with snow.
Where to Stay for Your Galena Winter Getaway
After a full day of skiing and exploring, Galena’s bed and breakfasts and boutique inns offer a welcome retreat. Properties affiliated with the Midwest Association of Independent Inns provide comfortable accommodations, thoughtful amenities, and personalized service you won’t find at larger hotels. Many are located close to downtown or just a short drive from Chestnut Mountain, making it easy to balance slope time with relaxation.
If you’re planning a winter adventure filled with skiing, small-town charm, and memorable Midwest scenery, Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort and Galena offer a combination that keeps visitors coming back season after season.
Wollersheim Winery, Distillery & Bistro near Baraboo, WI
A Wine Country Afternoon Near Baraboo
If you are staying in Baraboo and someone tells you to save an afternoon for wine tasting, it’s Wollersheim Winery they mean. Sitting about 20 minutes south along the Wisconsin River in Prairie du Sac, it’s the perfect wine stop away from the Dells and Devil’s Lake crowds. Between the tasting room, distillery, and bistro, Wollersheim has grown into one of the most recognizable names among Wisconsin wineries, and it is a great addition to any Baraboo itinerary.
The History Behind Wollersheim Winery
Wollersheim Winery traces back to the 1840s, when Hungarian nobleman Agoston Haraszthy first planted grapevines on the hillside before moving on to help found California’s wine industry. The Kehl family ran the property as a working winery until a hard winter in 1899 wiped out the vines. Bob and JoAnn Wollersheim bought the land in 1972 and started replanting, and winemaker Philippe Coquard, who arrived from France’s Beaujolais region in the 1980s, has led the winery since. The property now holds a place on the National Register of Historic Places, and the original hillside wine cave has been restored into a small exhibit on the estate’s past.
Wine, Spirits, and a Bistro in One Stop
Wollersheim Winery is really three experiences in one. The winery itself pours Prairie Fumé, a dry white made from a French American hybrid grape, alongside a rotating lineup of reds and dessert wines. The distillery, added in 2015, produces brandy and gin. The bistro serves a scratch-made menu designed to pair with their wines. Tours and tastings run throughout the day, though hours shift seasonally, so it is worth checking Wollersheim’s site before you drive down. Prairie du Sac sits close to Sauk City as well, so it’s easy to make a stop in either town.
Planning Your Visit
Wollersheim Winery makes an easy half day trip from Baraboo. Start your day with a morning hike at Devil’s Lake or a stop in downtown Sauk City on the way south. Wine tasting in Wisconsin has few stops with this much history behind the label, and Wollersheim remains the benchmark for the region.
Where to Stay Near Wollersheim Winery
You might be wondering: where can you stay near Wollersheim Winery that is not a highway motel? Ringling House Bed and Breakfast sits in downtown Baraboo, about 20 minutes north of the winery, and is one of the better options among Hotels near Wollersheim Winery for a wine weekend. Built in 1901 for Charles Ringling of circus fame and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the house puts you within walking distance of Baraboo’s restaurants while keeping you close to Prairie du Sac, Circus World, and Devil’s Lake State Park. Book your stay, spend the afternoon tasting wine, and come back to a historic house with a home cooked breakfast waiting the next morning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Wollersheim Winery located?
Wollersheim Winery sits in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, on a hillside overlooking the Wisconsin River, close to Sauk City.
How far is Wollersheim Winery from Baraboo?
It is about 16 miles, roughly a 20 to 25 minute drive south from Baraboo via Highway 12.
Does Wollersheim Winery have food?
Yes. The on-site bistro serves a seasonal menu built to pair with the winery’s wines.
Where should I stay near Wollersheim Winery?
Ringling House Bed and Breakfast in downtown Baraboo is about 20 minutes from the winery and puts you within walking distance of Baraboo’s own restaurants and shops.
What is Wollersheim Winery known for?
Wollersheim is best known for Prairie Fumé, its flagship dry white wine, and for being one of the oldest wineries in Wisconsin, with roots dating to the 1840s.
Your Guide to Granbury Texas Events this Fall
Granbury Oktoberfest and Fall Festivals
If you have been searching for Granbury Texas events to build a fall trip around, October delivers more than any other month on the calendar. The Historic Square is the center of much of the action, anchored by Granbury Oktoberfest and followed closely by the Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts. Both events are within walking distance of a lakefront Boutique Hotel, which makes this one of the best fall getaways to plan in North Texas.
What Is Granbury Oktoberfest, and When Does It Happen?
Granbury Oktoberfest is a free, family-friendly celebration of German heritage held on Historic Granbury Square, hosted by the Historic Granbury Merchants Association. The festival brings a biergarten, a beer hoisting competition, and Hammerschlagen, the traditional nail-driving game that draws a crowd every year. Expect polka music echoing across the square, along with authentic Bavarian food and a lineup of local vendors filling the plaza and surrounding streets.
For a sit-down German meal, Ketzler’s Schnitzel Haus & Biergarten is a longtime favorite just off the square, known for its schnitzel, bratwurst sampler, and full biergarten menu. It gets busy during festival weekend, so plan for a wait or an early reservation if you want a table.
More Fall Festivals and Granbury Texas Events to Add to Your Calendar
Oktoberfest is only the start of the season. The same weekend as Granbury Oktoberfest, Romancing the Monarch Festival celebrates the Monarch Butterfly migration. Later in October, the Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts returns to the square with juried artists, live music, and wine tastings, drawing visitors who have been searching for fall festivals near me across the Dallas-Fort Worth area.
A Few Practical Tips for Your Trip
Parking gets tight on the square during Oktoberfest, so leaving the car at a Hotel in Granbury and walking in is the better option. Granbury’s downtown is compact enough that most of the action sits within a few blocks. Pack layers, since October days in Texas run warm but the evenings cool off quickly once the sun goes down.
Hotels in Granbury TX: Where to Stay for Your Oktoberfest Getaway
Set apart from other Hotels in Granbury TX, Inn on Lake Granbury offers luxurious getaway rather than a quick stop. The adults-only boutique inn sits on three acres along the lakefront, with 12 individually appointed rooms and suites plus two private guest houses, many with private balconies and lake views. Mornings start with a chef-prepared gourmet breakfast, and evenings wind down with complimentary appetizers and wine delivered to your room, a welcome contrast after a day of biergarten crowds and polka music.
As a Select Registry property, one of only five in Texas, the Inn is located a short walk from the square and many of the best things to do in Granbury with a saltwater pool, garden grounds, and the kind of personalized service that turns an Oktoberfest weekend into a full romantic escape. Reserve your stay before festival weekend books up.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Granbury Oktoberfest?
Granbury Oktoberfest takes place in early October on Historic Granbury Square. Exact dates shift slightly year to year, so confirm the current schedule before booking.
Is Granbury Oktoberfest free to attend?
Yes, the festival is free to attend, though individual food, drinks, and vendor items are priced separately.
What other Granbury Texas events happen in the fall?
Romancing the Monarch happens in early October and The Harvest Moon Festival of the Arts follows Oktoberfest later in October, featuring juried artists, live music, and wine tastings on the square.
What Hotels in Granbury TX are within walking distance of the square?
Inn on Lake Granbury sits an easy ten minute walk from Historic Granbury Square and the best things to do in Granbury, making it a convenient base for both Oktoberfest and the Harvest Moon Festival.