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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Winter getaways near Pittsburgh are an ideal way to slow down and enjoy meaningful time away from the city, and a weekend trip is all it takes. Fewer crowds, cozy settings, and shorter drives make winter weekends perfect for spontaneous escapes. Heading further north into Pennsylvania’s countryside offers an easy change of scenery without the stress of long travel days.
Mercer County stands out as one of the most appealing areas for winter weekend getaways in PA. Quaint towns, scenic country roads, and seasonal activities suit couples and friends alike. Choosing romantic getaways within two hours of Pittsburgh keeps travel flexible, which is especially helpful when winter weather can change plans quickly.
Downtown Sharon provides a welcoming small-town experience with local shops, coffee spots, and casual dining. A visit to the Spa at Buhl Mansion adds a layer of indulgence, with full-service treatments and couples massages that feel especially restorative in winter. For shoppers, Grove City Premium Outlets offer excellent off-season and tax-free deals just a short drive away, making it a favorite stop on weekend trips from Pittsburgh.
Outdoor exploration remains rewarding even in colder months. Winter walks at Buhl Park or along the trails at Maurice K. Goddard State Park offer open views and peaceful surroundings. Many couples also enjoy exploring the Mercer County Wine, Brew, and Spirits Trail, where winter tastings allow more time to talk with staff and enjoy each stop without crowds.
Where you stay can influence the entire experience of your winter getaway. For travelers seeking weekend getaways in PA that feel personal and relaxed, a Bed and Breakfast in PA offers a natural fit. Tara – A Country Inn offers an inviting setting with attentive hospitality, homemade breakfasts, and on-site dining options, eliminating the need to venture far to find an elegant meal.
Spending evenings by the fire, enjoying a nightcap in the lounge, or relaxing in your guest room encourages guests to slow down and reconnect. Winter weekend trips from Pittsburgh are about comfort, simplicity, and quality time, and Mercer County delivers on all three.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Galena golf courses have helped earn this historic town a reputation as one of the Midwest’s top golf destinations, and it is easy to see why. Set among the rolling hills of Jo Daviess County, this corner of northwest Illinois is home to some of the region’s most scenic and highly regarded courses, from the championship layouts at Eagle Ridge Resort to the welcoming fairways of Galena Golf Club. Whether you are chasing a personal best or just looking for a beautiful morning with friends, a golf getaway here delivers rounds worth talking about long after the final putt.
What makes a golf trip to Galena especially worthwhile is everything waiting after your round. Historic downtown is lined with independently owned shops, some of the best restaurants in Galena, and standout antique shopping. Spend an afternoon visiting local wineries, grab a pint at Galena Brewing Company, or take a scenic drive to Mississippi Palisades State Park for sweeping views of the Mississippi River. You can also tour Ulysses S. Grant’s Home State Historic Site. With so many things to do in Galena, it is easy to turn a golf getaway into a relaxing long weekend.
After finishing your round at the best Galena golf courses, you will want a home base to match. Jail Hill Inn sits on a quiet hilltop just minutes from downtown and within a short drive of every course on this list. Spacious suites, an exceptional breakfast, and thoughtful hospitality make it an easy place to unwind after a day on the links.
When guests ask where to play golf during their stay, the recommendation usually depends on the kind of round they want. Some visitors want nationally recognized championship golf, while others prefer a relaxed afternoon on a scenic public course. Here are the Galena golf courses guests hear about most often.
A few things are worth knowing before your visit. Eagle Ridge Resort offers golf packages covering multiple rounds, worth exploring if you plan to play more than one course. Summer and fall are the busiest seasons, so reserve tee times as early as the booking window allows, especially for The General Golf Course. Galena Golf Club is semi-private, so confirm public tee time availability before you go.
A golf getaway deserves accommodations as enjoyable as the courses themselves, and that is exactly what you will find at Jail Hill Inn. Housed in a beautifully restored 135-year-old former county jail, this boutique Galena, IL, Bed and Breakfast offers six spacious suites, each with approximately 800 square feet of living space, a separate bedroom, a sitting area, and a spa-caliber bathroom. Every stay includes robes and towels, premium bath amenities, custom bath salts, and a chilled bottle of champagne with chocolates waiting in your suite on arrival.
Each morning begins with a made-from-scratch multi-course breakfast featuring seasonal ingredients, many harvested from the inn’s own gardens. Every afternoon brings a spread of appetizers, charcuterie, house-baked cookies, and a curated selection of wine. Before heading into town for dinner, unwind in the courtyard with a glass of wine.
Every one of these Galena golf courses sits within an easy drive of Jail Hill Inn, keeping you close to the fairways and to everything else this historic town offers. Book your stay at our Galena, IL, Bed and Breakfast and start planning your golf getaway today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best golf courses near Galena, IL?
Eagle Ridge Resort, Galena Golf Club, Woodbine Bend Golf Course, Apple Canyon Lake Golf Course, and Lacoma Golf Club are among the top Galena golf courses, ranging from championship layouts to relaxed public rounds.
Where should you stay for a golf getaway in Galena?
Jail Hill Inn offers a quiet hilltop location minutes from downtown and within easy reach of every course on this list, making it a convenient home base for a golf getaway.
Is Galena Golf Club open to the public?
Galena Golf Club is semi-private, so it is best to call ahead and confirm public tee time availability before your visit.
What is Galena, IL known for?
Galena is known for its historic downtown, boutique shopping, wineries and breweries, Ulysses S. Grant’s Home State Historic Site, and its reputation as one of the Midwest’s top golf destinations.
The Columbia River Gorge stands out as one of the most unique places to visit in Washington State, offering an adventure-driven blend of dramatic scenery, outdoor recreation, and cultural depth. Carved by ancient floods and shaped by constant movement, the Gorge stretches for more than 80 miles along the Washington and Oregon border, revealing waterfalls, vineyard-covered hillsides, basalt cliffs, and forested trails that define the Pacific Northwest.
For travelers wondering what to do in Washington State beyond the usual highlights, the Columbia River Gorge brings variety to your getaway in every direction. Hikers can explore waterfall-lined trails and sweeping overlooks, cyclists can ride sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, and paddlers can experience the river itself from a completely different perspective. Seasonal experiences add even more depth, from wildflower fields and orchards to scenic drives that change character throughout the year.
Many of the most memorable things to see in Washington State are found just beyond the well-known landmarks. Huckleberry picking in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, soaking in the historic Carson Hot Springs, stargazing at Goldendale Observatory, or hiking the slopes of Mount St. Helens all offer experiences that feel rooted in the region’s natural identity. Nearby Hood River adds another layer, with farm loops, lavender fields, cideries, and scenic train rides that showcase the Gorge at a slower pace.
After full days exploring, where you stay matters. Our elevated cabins in Washington provide a refined retreat near Hood River, placing you close to the best things to do in the Columbia River Gorge while offering privacy and comfort. Each cabin is designed with thoughtful details, including soaking tubs, fireplaces, and private porches that invite you to unwind without distraction.
Whether your days are filled with waterfall hikes, wine tasting, scenic overlooks, or river adventures, returning to a private cabin enhances the entire experience. For travelers seeking adventure-focused yet elevated places to visit in Washington State, the Columbia River Gorge paired with luxury cabin getaways is hard to beat. Book your Columbia Gorge escape today and discover why this region continues to rank among Washington State’s most unforgettable destinations.