What To See & Do
Discover the Best Things to Do in St. Augustine, Florida
Best Things to Do in St. Augustine, Florida
As the nation’s oldest city, St. Augustine delivers an experience that blends history, coastal beauty, and modern Southern charm. From centuries-old landmarks to sun-soaked beaches and lively food and drink scenes, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do in St. Augustine, whether you’re here for a long weekend or a multi-day escape.
Florida is a year-round destination, but many visitors consider spring and fall the ideal time to explore. Comfortable temperatures make it easy to walk the St. Augustine Historic District, enjoy outdoor dining, or spend time by the ocean. Summer brings beach lovers and a lively energy, while winter offers a quieter pace without sacrificing sunshine.
Start your visit with a guided ride on the Old Town Trolley, one of the easiest ways to learn the city’s story and get oriented. From there, dive into history at the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, where coquina stone walls overlook the Matanzas Bay. Nearby, the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park offers a fascinating look at the earliest days of European settlement.
When it’s time to slow down, St. Augustine Beach and Anastasia State Park provide wide stretches of sand, scenic trails, and opportunities for kayaking or wildlife viewing. Back in town, stroll along St. George Street to browse local shops, enjoy live music, and sample everything from casual bites to craft cocktails. Wine tastings at San Sebastian Winery and spirits at the St. Augustine Distillery add another layer to the experience.
Where to Stay During Your St. Augustine Vacation
Choosing the right St. Augustine lodging makes all the difference. Staying within walking distance of the Historic District means you can leave the car behind and fully enjoy the city’s rhythm. Our historic St. Augustine Lodging places you steps from top attractions, restaurants, and nightlife, while offering a comfortable retreat at the end of the day.
From lighthouse views and ghost tours to alligator encounters and beach days, the best things to do in St. Augustine are as varied as they are unforgettable. Plan your stay, explore at your own pace, and discover why this Southern city continues to captivate travelers year after year.
Discover the Best Wildflower Hikes in the Columbia River Gorge
Best Wildflower Hikes in Washington for Spring
Spring is one of the most rewarding times to experience the best wildflower hikes in Washington, especially in the Columbia River Gorge. As snow recedes and daylight stretches longer, hillsides fill with Pacific Northwest wildflowers, including balsamroot, lupine, Indian paintbrush, and early-season lilies. On the Washington side of the Gorge, open slopes and oak woodlands create ideal conditions for vibrant spring blooms that continue into higher elevations as the season progresses.
These Columbia River Gorge hikes offer a range of experiences, from short scenic loops to more challenging climbs. Many trails pair well with classic things to do in the Columbia River Gorge, such as visiting waterfalls, stopping at scenic viewpoints, or exploring nearby towns for coffee, cider, or a relaxed meal with river views. For those planning wildflower hikes near Portland or a quick trip from Seattle, this region provides an accessible and well-rounded spring weekend.
These Are Our Favorite Wildflower Hikes
Catherine Creek Arch Loop near Lyle, Washington, is a short but rewarding two-mile hike with waterfalls, expansive river views, and early wildflower displays. Coyote Wall Loop Trail offers a longer, more strenuous route with steady elevation gain and wide views of the Gorge, where balsamroot often blankets sunlit slopes. Dog Mountain is one of the most recognized wildflower hikes in Washington State, known for its steep ascent and sweeping summit views during peak bloom.
Hamilton Mountain, accessed near Beacon Rock, combines forested paths, open ridgelines, and seasonal blooms with dramatic overlooks of the Columbia River. Cape Horn Loop features a mix of forest and exposed viewpoints, with wildflower pockets and strong light conditions later in the day. For a more relaxed outing, Columbia Hills Historical State Park provides open terrain, spring wildflowers, and flexible trail options for a slower pace.
Book Our Private Getaway Cabins in Washington
After a day exploring Columbia River Gorge wildflowers, retreating to our private getaway cabins in Washington adds something special to your trip. Each cabin offers a quiet, spacious setting designed for restful evenings and unhurried mornings, with porches that extend your connection to the surrounding landscape.
Enhance your stay by booking a massage to support post-hike recovery, or unwind in a jetted tub after a full day on the trails. Select dog-friendly cabins are available, making it easy to include your hiking companion. For a well-rounded spring weekend, combine the best wildflower hikes in Washington with a stay that prioritizes rest, space, and ease.
Discover the Charms of Stonington, Near Mystic, CT
Best Things to Do in Stonington CT for a Weekend
Stonington Borough is a quick drive from Mystic, but it feels like an entirely different place, with a compact waterfront village layout, preserved architecture, and easy shoreline access. Day trips like this are one of the best things to do in Mystic Ct. And, like Mystic, you’ll find a well-rounded itinerary of things to do in Stonington. For travelers planning a New England weekend that includes Mystic getaways and day trips from Mystic, Stonington is an efficient add-on that rewards a slower, walkable itinerary.
Start with a walk along the Stonington Borough waterfront, where the harbor frames fishing boats, sailboats, and working wharves. It’s one of the most charming things to do in Stonington, CT. The peninsula setting keeps the water in view, and the paths make it simple to explore without a rigid plan. Continue toward Water Street for independently owned shops, galleries, and small boutiques that reflect local artists and makers, rather than a standardized retail mix.
A lighthouse visit belongs high on any list of things to do in Stonington CT. The Stonington Lighthouse Museum pairs maritime history with coastal views, and the climb to the top is one of the best ways to understand the geography of the Borough and the surrounding shoreline. If you want a deeper historical stop, the Captain Nathaniel B. Palmer House adds context to the town of Stonington through the story of a well-known explorer connected to the area.
Food is another popular activity among the unique things to do in Stonington, CT. Stonington, Connecticut, is closely tied to its fishing industry, and a meal by the water fits naturally into a weekend plan, especially if you are balancing busier time in Mystic with a quieter afternoon in the Borough. For a change of scene, you’ll love DuBois Beach. It’s one of the best things to do in Stonington, and offers calm water and open views toward Watch Hill, Rhode Island, making it an easy, low-effort stop that still feels distinctly coastal.
Where to Stay for Fun-Filled Mystic Getaways
For travelers pairing things to do near Mystic, CT, with time in Stonington Borough, The Whalers Inn is a practical home base. As a boutique hotel in Mystic, it keeps you close to the historic seaport, shops, and restaurants, while making quick day trips from Mystic straightforward.
Accommodation options include guest rooms, suites, and apartment-style stays that suit solo travelers, couples, and family getaways in Connecticut. With a central location that supports exploring Mystic on foot and reaching the town of Stonington with ease, it brings a full weekend itinerary together in one stay.
Discover these Fantastic Oregon Coast Attractions near Cannon Beach
Best Oregon Coast Attractions for Couples Getaways
Exploring Oregon Coast attractions offers couples a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, scenic views, and small-town charm. Centered around Cannon Beach, this stretch of coastline provides easy access to some of the most memorable things to do on the Oregon Coast, from iconic landmarks to quieter, less crowded destinations.
Start with Haystack Rock, one of the most recognizable Oregon beaches. At low tide, you can walk out to view tide pools filled with sea stars and anemones, while seasonal birdwatching adds another layer of interest. Just north, Ecola State Park introduces forested trails and sweeping ocean views. The Clatsop Loop Trail combines coastal scenery with regional history, making it a rewarding stop for couples who enjoy light hiking.
For a quieter experience, head south to Oswald West State Park. Short Sand Beach sits within a protected cove, offering a more secluded setting for walking, surfing, or simply enjoying the sound of the waves. Nearby, the Cape Falcon Trail leads to elevated viewpoints overlooking the Pacific, a strong choice for those seeking more active things to do in Oregon.
Further north, Nehalem Bay State Park provides open space for biking, kayaking, and beach walks along a four-mile sand spit. If you are planning an Oregon Coast road trip, this stop offers variety without heavy crowds. Seaside adds a different pace, with its oceanfront promenade, aquarium, and classic beach-town atmosphere, while Manzanita offers a quieter alternative, with boutique shops and a wide, open shoreline.
Do not miss Hug Point, where a seasonal waterfall meets the sand, and historic road markings remain visible in the rock. For those willing to venture farther, Astoria delivers a mix of history and views, with the Astoria Column and Columbia River Maritime Museum offering insight into the region’s past.
Stay at an Oregon Coast Hotel Near Cannon Beach
Choosing the right Oregon Coast hotel enhances your overall experience. Arch Cape Inn & Hotel, located just minutes from Cannon Beach, offers a quiet, couples-focused setting. Spacious suites feature refined design and comfortable layouts, creating a relaxing space after a day exploring Oregon Coast attractions.
Each morning begins with a thoughtfully prepared breakfast made from seasonal ingredients. The location places you within a short drive of top destinations while maintaining a sense of privacy away from busier areas. Whether you are planning a full Oregon Coast vacation or a focused getaway, this setting allows you to experience the best time to visit Oregon in comfort.
Discover What to Do in Durham, North Carolina
What to Do in Durham for a Weekend Getaway
Durham is the kind of city that rewards curiosity. It balances history and creativity in a way that feels effortless, making it one of the South’s most appealing weekend getaway destinations for couples. If you are planning what to do in Durham, expect a mix of walkable neighborhoods, culture-forward attractions, and an ever-growing food scene that turns meals into experiences.
Start your weekend in downtown Durham, where restored brick buildings, local boutiques, murals, and chef-driven restaurants invite you to explore at your own pace. Downtown is ideal for your first day, letting you settle into the rhythm of the city while discovering coffee shops, galleries, and unexpected finds along the way. The American Tobacco Campus is a must-see, offering scenic walkways, waterfront views, and some of the most popular dining spots in Durham, all in one place.
Culture lovers will find plenty of things to do in Durham, NC, too. The Durham Performing Arts Center brings nationally touring shows to the city, while Duke University’s campus offers striking architecture and green spaces perfect for a quiet walk. Duke Gardens is especially popular with couples, offering a peaceful setting that feels removed from the city without ever leaving it. For art lovers, the Nasher Museum of Art provides an impressive collection and is an excellent option if your weekend includes rainy weather.
Durham’s location in the heart of the North Carolina Triangle makes it easy to expand your itinerary. Chapel Hill offers a relaxed college-town feel with great shopping and dining, while Raleigh adds major museums and a complementary restaurant scene. These easy day trips make Durham an ideal base for exploring more of the region without spending your weekend driving.
Where to Stay During Your Durham Weekend
After full days exploring what to do in Durham, where you stay matters. Choosing a boutique hotel in Durham, NC elevates the entire experience. With historic character, private accommodations, and thoughtful amenities, it creates space to unwind and reconnect. From quiet mornings with breakfast to evenings spent relaxing on beautifully maintained grounds, the right stay turns a good weekend into a memorable one.
Durham offers the perfect blend of energy and ease. Once you experience it, it quickly becomes a weekend getaway you will want to repeat.
Discover Why Granbury is Loved by Couples in Texas
Best Romantic Places in Texas for Couples’ Getaways
Granbury captures your attention the moment you arrive, and it is easy to see why it continues to rank among the most romantic places in Texas. From the historic downtown square to the peaceful shoreline of Lake Granbury, this charming town offers couples an experience that feels thoughtful, elevated, and genuinely romantic. Whether you are planning a special Valentine’s Day getaway or simply craving time away together, Granbury is where you’ll find the perfect spot for connection.
There are so many fantastic things to do in Granbury during your couples’ getaways. Spend your days strolling hand in hand around the town square, where boutique shops, inviting cafes, and the iconic courthouse create an atmosphere that feels timeless. Wine tastings at nearby vineyards offer a relaxed way to slow down and enjoy each other’s company, while performances by the Granbury Theatre Company add an extra layer of romance to the evening. These experiences consistently place Granbury on lists of the best weekend getaways for couples in Texas.
Nature lovers will appreciate the simple beauty of Lake Granbury. A walk along the waterfront, watching the light change over the water, offers a peaceful pause from everyday life. It is one of those quiet moments that turns a couple’s getaway into something truly memorable and reinforces why this area is considered one of the most romantic places in Texas.
A Romantic Place to Stay in Granbury, TX
For couples looking to elevate their stay, the Inn on Lake Granbury stands out among hotels in Granbury TX. Known as one of the most romantic places to stay in Texas, the property offers beautifully designed rooms, welcoming hospitality, and lake views that set the tone for relaxation. From quiet mornings to cozy evenings, every detail is designed to help couples reconnect.
Granbury’s convenient location also makes it an ideal getaway near Dallas. After enjoying a gourmet breakfast, couples can explore local galleries, shops, and historic attractions before returning to the comfort of their lakeside retreat. By the end of your stay, it becomes clear why Granbury is one of the most romantic places in Texas for couples seeking an unforgettable escape.
Drive the Hood River Fruit Loop This Summer
Best Hood River Fruit Loop Drive in Oregon
The Hood River Fruit Loop offers a structured yet flexible way to experience Oregon’s agricultural landscape during the summer season. Located in the Columbia River Gorge, this 35-mile route introduces travelers to one of the state’s most productive fruit-growing regions, where orchards, vineyards, and farm stands define the scenery.
Summer is widely considered the best time to visit the Hood River Fruit Loop, as early harvests begin in June and continue through the season. Visitors can expect fresh strawberries, cherries, blueberries, and peaches, along with opportunities for cherry picking in Hood River and exploring fruit farms near Hood River. Panorama Point is a worthwhile early stop, offering sweeping views across thousands of acres of orchards and vineyards.
The route features nearly 30 stops, including U-pick farms, wineries, cideries, and local markets. Draper Girls Country Farm and The Gorge White House are popular for strawberries and multi-experience visits that include wine and lavender. For cherry picking, Packer Orchards and Kiyokawa Family Orchards are excellent choices, while Mt. View Orchards and Montavon’s Berries provide seasonal blueberry picking. Lavender farms such as Hope Ranch Lavender and Hood River Lavender add variety to the drive.
Beyond produce, the Fruit Loop Oregon experience includes local food and drink. Apple Valley Country Store & Bakery is known for fresh pies and huckleberry milkshakes, while Apple Valley BBQ offers a convenient lunch stop. Marchesi Vineyards & Winery and Solera Brewery provide additional tasting opportunities.
Hood River Cabin Getaway
After a full day exploring the Oregon Fruit Loop, return to a luxury Hood River cabin. Carson Ridge Cabins offers a comfortable setting for relaxation, with private porches suited for unwinding after a day of travel. Its location also provides access to dining in nearby Stevenson, Washington, as well as restaurants in Hood River.
Planning a Hood River Fruit Loop adventure allows travelers to combine scenic driving, seasonal produce, and regional food culture into a single summer itinerary. Booking a well-located cabin stay ensures your getaway is memorable.
Enjoy Frankenmuth Carriage Rides With Your Sweetheart
Best Frankenmuth Carriage Rides for Couples’ Getaways
Frankenmuth is one of the most charming destinations in Michigan, especially for couples looking for a getaway that feels romantic, nostalgic, and thoughtfully designed for connection. With its Bavarian-inspired architecture, walkable streets, and festive atmosphere, the town offers countless things to do in Frankenmuth that feel both playful and meaningful. Among the most memorable experiences are Frankenmuth carriage rides, which allow couples to slow down and take in the village together.
Horse carriage rides through Frankenmuth feel timeless. As you pass cobblestone paths, storybook storefronts, and flower-lined bridges, the experience creates an atmosphere that feels removed from everyday life. These rides are popular year-round, offering cozy blankets in the cooler months and open-air sightseeing in the warmer months. Evening rides are especially romantic, as the lights glow along Main Street and the town takes on a softer, more intimate feel.
There are two well-known options for Frankenmuth carriage rides. Fantasy Carriage Company offers guided tours highlighting historic landmarks and Main Street attractions, with rides available year-round. H&H Acres and Carriage Services operates seasonally and provides longer, walk-up rides near the Bavarian Inn, offering flexibility for couples planning their day. Both options remain among the most popular horse carriage rides in the region.
Beyond carriage rides, couples will find plenty of additional things to do in Frankenmuth. Boutique shopping, bakeries, wine shops, riverfront paths, museums, and seasonal festivals make it easy to fill a weekend itinerary. Whether you are planning what to do in Frankenmuth for a short escape or a longer stay, the town delivers charm at every turn.
Elevate Your Couples Getaway in Michigan
After exploring Frankenmuth, returning to a refined retreat completes the experience. Choosing a Bay City Bed and Breakfast, such as The Historic Wester House, which is a short drive away, is the best choice for your lodging. This historic mansion offers elegant accommodations, personalized hospitality, and private spa experiences designed for couples. Gourmet breakfasts and thoughtful amenities transform a simple trip into one of the most memorable romantic things to do in Michigan. Pairing Frankenmuth carriage rides with a stay at our historic inn creates a couples getaway worth returning to again and again.
Enjoy the Best of Northern New Mexico From Santa Fe
Best Day Trips from Santa Fe for Adventure
Santa Fe is the kind of place that makes you want to keep exploring. In part, it’s because there are so many incredible things to do in Santa Fe! Between Canyon Road galleries, the Plaza, standout museums, and New Mexican cuisine, you could easily stay busy in town. Still, one of the best parts of planning day trips from Santa Fe is how quickly the landscape shifts, from high desert to mountains, from ancient sites to art-forward small towns. If your itinerary leans toward an adventure getaway, these nearby escapes deliver big scenery and memorable stories without overcomplicating your day.
Start close by with Los Alamos, about 45 minutes away, for science history and sweeping views over the Rio Grande. Bandelier National Monument, around an hour from Santa Fe, is a must for ancient cliff dwellings, short trails, petroglyphs, and canyon walls that make every photo look dramatic. For a slower-paced but still outdoorsy reset, head to Jemez Springs and Jemez State Monument to pair Pueblo history with forest drives and the option to soak in local hot springs.
If you love a road trip with character, take the Turquoise Trail toward Albuquerque. The stops, like Madrid and Cerrillos, add local art, quirky shops, and easy hikes to your route. For landscapes that feel otherworldly, Kasha-Katuwe Tent Rocks offers cone-shaped formations and hiking through slot-canyon terrain. And when you want a classic Santa Fe day trip, Taos brings gallery browsing, Taos Pueblo history, and the jaw-dropping Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.
A Lodging Break Between Day Trips
After a full day of exploring places to see in New Mexico, coming back to a calm, curated space matters. Four Kachinas Inn is one of the top-rated Santa Fe lodging properties. Our Inn keeps you close to downtown while offering an elevated, art-forward stay that feels intentionally designed, not cookie-cutter. With beautifully styled rooms that feature Native American, classic, and modern art, it’s easy to unwind, reset, and plan what to do in New Mexico next.
Round out your list with Abiquiú and Ghost Ranch for bold red rock scenery, Valles Caldera National Preserve for open meadows and wildlife spotting, and Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge for winter birdwatching and golden morning light. However you build your route, these Santa Fe day trips turn one stay into a full New Mexico experience.