What To See & Do
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.
Don’t Miss the True Western Round-Up!
Best Rodeo in Durango for an Authentic Western Trip
Summer in southwest Colorado is packed with adventure, but few experiences capture the spirit of the region quite like attending the Rodeo in Durango. Held at the La Plata County Fairgrounds, the True Western Roundup brings together Colorado rodeo traditions, skilled competitors, and a strong sense of community that reflects Durango’s deep ranching roots. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or planning a longer mountain vacation, this event belongs at the top of your itinerary.
The True Western Roundup begins each July and features a full lineup of classic rodeo events every night. Guests can watch saddle bronc riding, ranch bronc riding, barrel racing, breakaway roping, steer riding, and the crowd favorite, bull riding. Families also enjoy mutton bustin’, where younger riders take their turn in the arena. The evening atmosphere feels distinctly local, with passionate fans, working ranch families, and visitors all gathering under the summer sky for one of the most authentic Colorado rodeo experiences in the state.
Beyond the arena, there are countless things to do in Durango during the summer season. The Animas River flows directly through town, creating opportunities for whitewater rafting, paddleboarding, and riverside walks. The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad offers a scenic journey through the San Juan Mountains, while Mesa Verde National Park gives visitors a fascinating look into the region’s history and archaeology. Explore the vibrant and welcoming downtown Durango with locally owned restaurants, breweries, galleries, and shops.
Luxury Lodging at Our Bed and Breakfast Durango CO
After an exciting night at the Durango rodeo, returning to Antlers on the Creek is a welcome retreat for relaxation. Located along Lightner Creek, the historic property offers a quiet mountain setting while remaining close to downtown Durango and the fairgrounds. Guests appreciate the thoughtfully designed accommodations, personalized hospitality, and peaceful atmosphere that makes every stay feel intentional and comfortable.
Each morning begins with a gourmet breakfast, giving guests the perfect start before another day of exploring southwest Colorado. Whether your plans include hiking, rafting, train rides, or another evening at the rodeo in Durango, this Bed and Breakfast in Durango CO is a refined home base for your summer mountain getaway. Reserve your stay early, because summer travel season in Durango fills quickly.
Don’t Miss These Exciting Events in Wausau, WI
Best Wausau Events and Things to Do in Wisconsin
Summer is one of the best times to experience Wausau events, with a full calendar of live music, art festivals, airshows, and community celebrations that showcase the energy of Wausau, Wisconsin. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or looking for new things to do in Wisconsin, Wausau offers a combination of entertainment, outdoor recreation, dining, and cultural attractions that appeal to a variety of travelers.
One of the most popular Wausau events each summer is Concerts on the Square. Held on Wednesday evenings from June through August, this free downtown concert series features live music, local food vendors, and a welcoming outdoor atmosphere. Visitors can bring a lawn chair, enjoy dinner from food trucks, and spend an evening in the heart of downtown Wausau.
For aviation enthusiasts, Wings Over Wausau is a major highlight. The event transforms the Wausau Downtown Airport into a weekend destination featuring daytime and nighttime airshows, military exhibits, aircraft displays, fireworks, and family activities. During the same weekend, the IncredibleBank Clear For Takeoff 5K offers visitors an active way to participate in the festivities while enjoying one of the area’s most unique summer events.
Art lovers will enjoy Chalkfest, where talented artists create large-scale chalk murals throughout the downtown 400 Block. The event provides an opportunity to explore local shops, coffee houses, and restaurants while viewing impressive temporary works of art. Another seasonal favorite is the Festival Foods 4th of July Fireworks Fest, which brings visitors together for an evening of patriotic celebrations and a memorable fireworks display.
Stay Near the Best Wausau Events
Big Bull Falls Blues Fest rounds out the summer lineup with live performances from nationally recognized blues musicians along the Wisconsin River at Isle of Ferns Park. The riverfront setting creates an enjoyable atmosphere for music fans looking to experience another side of Wausau, Wisconsin. Of course, there are so many more things to do in Wausau that go far beyond these events.
After exploring these popular Wausau events, guests can unwind at Stewart Inn, a historic Bed and Breakfast located close to downtown attractions, restaurants, and entertainment. Comfortable guest rooms, luxury amenities, and a multi-course scratch-made breakfast create a welcoming experience for travelers. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer Wisconsin vacation, Stewart Inn places you close to many of the best things to do in Wausau throughout the season.
Don’t Miss These Santa Fe Museums
Best Museum Hill Santa Fe Cultural Attractions
Museum Hill Santa Fe is one of the most important cultural destinations in the Southwest, bringing together several of the city’s most respected institutions in one setting. Located just a short drive from the historic Plaza, this area offers a focused way to experience the depth of Santa Fe museums, from Indigenous history to global folk traditions. The architecture, inspired by Pueblo design, reflects the region’s heritage and creates a strong sense of place from the moment you arrive.
Visitors exploring Museum Hill Santa Fe will find a collection of museums that present history and art with clarity and context. The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture examines the legacy and living traditions of Indigenous communities in the Southwest through pottery, textiles, and storytelling. Nearby, the Museum of International Folk Art houses an extensive global collection, including the well-known Girard Wing filled with intricate handcrafted objects. The Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian highlights both historic and contemporary Native American art, while the Museum of Spanish Colonial Art focuses on religious and cultural works shaped by early Spanish influence in the region.
Museum Hill Santa Fe also includes the Santa Fe Botanical Garden, where native plants and thoughtfully designed landscapes reflect the high desert environment. Walking paths and scenic views provide a slower pace between museum visits, while nearby shopping offers locally made goods and traditional crafts. For a convenient dining option, Weldon’s Museum Hill Café serves fresh, locally inspired dishes in a relaxed setting, making it an easy addition to your itinerary of things to do in Santa Fe NM.
A Comfortable Stay Near Museum Hill Santa Fe
After a full day of exploring, returning to a refined and welcoming place to stay enhances the experience. Our Santa Fe Bed and Breakfast offers eight individually designed guest rooms, each with curated decor, fireplaces, and inviting spaces for relaxation. Select accommodations include private or shared patios, while modern amenities such as WiFi and flat-screen televisions ensure comfort throughout your stay. Mornings begin with a delicious breakfast using fresh, local ingredients, and afternoon refreshments provide a lovely break before your evening plans.
Whether you are planning a weekend focused on Museum Hill Santa Fe or exploring additional things to do in Santa Fe, staying in a centrally located and thoughtfully designed property makes it easy to experience everything the city has to offer.
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.
Duluth Attractions to Explore on Your Couple’s Getaway
The Best Things to Do in Canal Park, Duluth, MN
Canal Park is one of the Midwest’s most iconic destinations, where Lake Superior meets a lively waterfront district. The defining experience here is watching massive freighters glide beneath the Aerial Lift Bridge, an up-close encounter that never loses its appeal, no matter how many times you see it. Checking the ship schedule in advance helps you plan your day around arrivals.
After you’ve watched the action at the Aerial Lift Bridge, there’s plenty more things to do in Canal Park to keep you busy. The Lakewalk stretches for miles along the shoreline, offering great walking and biking with ever-changing lake views. Local shops and galleries are worth browsing between outdoor stops, and Park Point, just across the bridge, provides a quieter escape with a sweeping freshwater beach that feels worlds away from the canal’s bustle.
When hunger strikes, Canal Park delivers. The waterfront dining scene ranges from casual spots with lake views to more polished evening options, all contributing to Duluth’s growing reputation as a food destination.
Canal Park is also a natural launching point for the rest of the city. The Superior Hiking Trail and Gitchi-Gami State Trail draw outdoor enthusiasts, while the Great Lakes Aquarium and local museums offer a deeper look at the region’s ecology and history. Whether you’re spending a full weekend or just a day, Canal Park sits at the center of it all.
Stay at a Duluth Bed and Breakfast on Lake Superior
For a romantic finishing touch, Solglimt Lakeshore Bed and Breakfast is an exceptional base. Perched directly on Lake Superior, it puts guests close to Canal Park and Duluth’s top attractions while offering the only waterfront Duluth Bed and Breakfast. Thoughtfully appointed rooms and beautiful surrounding gardens make it easy to unwind after a full day on the water.