What To See & Do
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.
Enjoy the Best of Winter in Minnesota
Best of Winter in Minnesota For Weekend Getaways
Winter in Minnesota transforms the Midwest into a destination defined by energy, beauty, and unforgettable seasonal experiences. Snow-covered landscapes, frozen lakes, and lively towns create the perfect backdrop for a weekend escape filled with outdoor adventure and cozy downtime. If you are looking for things to do in Minnesota in the winter, this season delivers far more than you might expect.
Minnesota winter activities span the entire state, making it easy to build a weekend itinerary no matter where you stay. Cross-country skiing is a favorite pastime, thanks to an extensive network of trails in state parks and urban green spaces alike. Snowshoeing offers a quieter way to explore forests and river valleys, while downhill skiing at popular resorts near Duluth and southern Minnesota adds a rush of excitement. Ice fishing, snowmobiling, and even dog sledding give visitors a chance to embrace classic Midwest winter traditions.
Beyond the outdoors, winter in Minnesota also shines through its cultural offerings. Museums, historic neighborhoods, local dining scenes, and seasonal events provide plenty of indoor options when you want a break from the cold. Whether you are exploring places to see in Minnesota, like Duluth’s waterfront, or strolling through charming river towns, winter adds a fresh perspective to familiar destinations.
Warm Up at Minnesota Bed and Breakfasts
After full days of winter activities in Minnesota, having the right place to stay makes all the difference. Minnesota bed and breakfasts offer inviting spaces where comfort meets character. Many feature fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, and thoughtful amenities designed for winter weekend getaways. Located throughout the state, these inns place you close to top attractions while providing a welcoming place to unwind each evening.
Winter weekends in Minnesota balance adventure with relaxation in a way few destinations can match. From active days outdoors to quiet nights spent recharging, this season invites you to slow down and enjoy the Midwest at its most memorable. Start planning your winter weekend and experience the best of winter in Minnesota firsthand.
Epic Adventures Await in the Olympic National Park
Local Guide: Top Things to Do in Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park stands out for its remarkable range of landscapes, combining alpine peaks, dense rainforest, and rugged coastline within a single destination. Travelers searching for things to do in Olympic National Park will find that the variety supports a well-paced adventure getaway with distinct experiences across each region.
Most visitors find that two to four days is the ideal timeframe for a balanced Olympic National Park itinerary. With two days, you can cover essential Olympic National Park attractions, including a mountain viewpoint, a rainforest stop, and time along the coast. Extending your stay allows for deeper exploration, including longer hikes in Olympic National Park and additional coastal stops.
Begin your itinerary at Hurricane Ridge, one of the most accessible high-elevation areas in the park. This location offers expansive views of the Olympic Mountains, with trails like Hurricane Hill providing a rewarding hike with consistent scenery. From there, Lake Crescent offers a change of pace with calm water, shoreline access, and a short forest walk to Marymere Falls.
The Hoh Rain Forest introduces a completely different environment. Trails such as the Hall of Mosses and Spruce Nature Trail highlight dense vegetation, towering trees, and a rich understory. For those interested in longer hikes in Olympic National Park, the Hoh River Trail provides a flexible out-and-back option.
Along the coast, Olympic National Park beaches such as Rialto and Ruby Beach showcase sea stacks, tide pools, and driftwood-lined shores. Timing your visit with the tide chart enhances access to areas like Hole in the Wall, while nearby stops such as Kalaloch offer scenic viewpoints.
The Best Olympic National Park Lodging Options
Choosing the right Olympic National Park lodging supports a flexible and comfortable trip. Private vacation rentals provide a practical alternative to traditional lodging, offering space to reset between hikes, beaches, and daily drives. With options that accommodate families, couples, and groups, these properties create a reliable home base near the park’s top highlights, not to mention all the other incredible things to do on the Olympic Peninsula.
Essex Steam Train: What to Know Before You Go
Few excursions capture Connecticut’s river valley quite like the Essex Steam Train. Board a vintage steam locomotive in Essex, roll past marshes and river coves, and see a stretch of the state that has stayed largely untouched by time. Add the riverboat cruise, and you extend the trip another hour and 15 minutes down the Connecticut River for views you won’t get from the road.
Fall is peak season for a reason. The Essex Steam Train fall foliage excursions rank among the most sought-after seasonal experiences in the region, and it’s easy to see why once the river valley turns amber and red. Whether you’re checking the Essex Steam Train schedule for a Saturday afternoon ride or booking the Essex Steam Train dinner for something more special, this is one of the most memorable things to do in Essex, CT.
What to Expect on the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat
The train departs from the beautifully restored 1892 Essex Station along tracks operated by the historic Valley Railroad Company. You’ll board one of the railroad’s carefully restored steam locomotives and travel north through Deep River and Chester, passing scenic marshes, the Florence Bidwell Sanctuary, and Post Cove, where protected wetlands support a range of native birds and wildlife. Guests who add the riverboat portion get a narrated cruise along the Connecticut River, with shoreline views, historic landmarks, and small waterfront communities passing by at an easy pace.
Most visitors choose the full Essex Steam Train and Riverboat excursion, which runs about two and a half hours. The trip begins on the train, transfers at Deep River Landing to the Becky Thatcher, an authentic Mississippi-style riverboat, and returns to Essex aboard the train after the cruise. If you’re tight on time, a train-only excursion offers a shorter ride without the boat. Seating runs Coach and First Class, with Caboose seating available on select departures for travelers who want something a little different.
If you’d like dinner included, the Essex Steam Train dinner experience runs separately aboard the Essex Clipper Dinner Train, a multi-course evening meal served in restored Pullman dining cars. It’s a distinctly different experience from the daytime rides. The railroad also runs select themed excursions through the warmer months, and fall is especially popular, drawing riders from across New England for the foliage. The primary excursion season generally runs spring through fall before the railroad shifts into its holiday lineup.
Plan to arrive at Essex Station about 30 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding. Schedules, prices, and excursion offerings shift throughout the season, so it’s worth reviewing current Essex Steam Train offerings and booking ahead, especially on weekends and during fall foliage season.
Train Rides in CT Worth Pairing With a Mystic Weekend
Essex sits about 35 minutes from downtown Mystic by car, making the steam train an easy half-day trip during a longer coastal getaway. Among train rides in Connecticut, few combine scenery and history as well as this one, and pairing it with time in Mystic rounds out a full weekend. Once you’re back from Essex, downtown Mystic delivers waterfront shops, art galleries, and restaurants clustered around the famous Bascule Drawbridge, along with easy access to the Mystic Seaport Museum and Mystic Aquarium.
Where to Stay After the Essex Steam Train
After a few hours on the train and river, there’s real value in coming back to a comfortable home base. The Whaler’s Inn is one of the boutique hotels in Mystic, CT that guests choose specifically because it puts them close to Essex while keeping them in the middle of things to do in Mystic. Rooms are spread across five restored buildings, many with gas fireplaces, deep soaking tubs, and thoughtful touches designed for unwinding after a day of exploring, and Hoxie House rooms add Mystic River views to the mix.
End your day with dinner at The Shipwright’s Daughter, the inn’s on-site restaurant led by James Beard Award-winning Chef David Standridge, whose farm-to-fork menu has earned a spot on the New York Times list of the 50 Best Restaurants in America. Wake up to breakfast the next morning before setting out again. Whether you’re planning the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat, a day exploring Mystic’s attractions, or simply a scenic getaway on the Connecticut shoreline, The Whaler’s Inn is an easy choice among Mystic, CT hotels. Book your stay and start planning your weekend today.
Essex Steam Train: FAQ
What to do in Essex, CT?
The Essex Steam Train and Riverboat is the area’s signature attraction, but downtown Essex also rewards a slower visit, with waterfront shops, historic homes, and dining along the Connecticut River. Combined with a stay in nearby Mystic, it makes for a full weekend of things to do in Essex, CT and the surrounding river valley.
Where to stay near the Essex Steam Train?
Mystic makes an excellent home base, sitting about 35 minutes from Essex Station by car. Staying at one of the boutique hotels in Mystic, CT gives you easy access to the train while keeping you close to Mystic’s own shops, restaurants, and waterfront attractions.
How long is the Essex Steam Train and Riverboat ride?
The full excursion, including both the train and the riverboat cruise on the Becky Thatcher, runs approximately two and a half hours. Guests who prefer a shorter outing can choose the train-only excursion instead.
What is there to do in Mystic, CT after the Essex Steam Train?
Downtown Mystic offers the Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, waterfront dining, and shopping around the historic Bascule Drawbridge, all within easy walking distance of downtown lodging. It’s an easy way to extend a day trip to Essex into a full scenic getaway.
Is Mystic, CT worth visiting for a weekend trip?
Yes. Between the Essex Steam Train, Mystic Seaport Museum, and downtown’s waterfront charm, Mystic offers enough for a full weekend, especially when paired with farm-to-fork dining and a boutique hotel stay right in the center of town.
Events & More at the Tryon Equestrian Center
Best Tryon Equestrian Center Events for a Weekend Trip
Planning a weekend around the Tryon Equestrian Center is one of the best ways to experience the energy, culture, and outdoor beauty of Western North Carolina. Whether you’re attending a Tryon horse show, competing in a major event, or simply enjoying the atmosphere as a spectator, the center offers something special year-round for equestrian enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
The Tryon International Equestrian Center is known for its world-class facilities and its packed calendar of hunter-jumper, dressage, and eventing competitions. Signature events like Saturday Night Lights transform a typical horse show into a full evening experience, complete with Grand Prix jumping, live music, food vendors, and family-friendly entertainment. Even if horses are the main draw, there’s far more to explore, including shopping, dining, and walking the expansive showgrounds.
Beyond the Tryon Equestrian Center events, you’ll find plenty more things to do in the Western North Carolina Mountains. Visitors can explore local wineries like Overmountain Vineyards or Parker-Binns, hike nearby trails at Pearson’s Falls or Blue Wall Preserve, or spend an afternoon browsing art galleries and cafes in downtown Tryon. These experiences make it easy to balance high-energy events with moments that slow the pace.
Where to Stay Near the Tryon Equestrian Center
For lodging that feels like a true retreat after a busy day at the Tryon horse park, the Orchard Inn in Saluda stands out. Located a short scenic drive from the equestrian center, this historic Saluda hotel offers thoughtfully appointed rooms and private cottages with sweeping foothill views. On-site dining at Newman’s Restaurant elevates the stay even further with farm-to-table cuisine that reflects the flavors of the region.
Guests appreciate the personal service, relaxed atmosphere, and sense of space that’s hard to find closer to the showgrounds. Whether you’re unwinding on the porch with a glass of wine or enjoying a memorable dinner after the last ride of the day, the Orchard Inn completes a weekend centered around the Tryon Equestrian Center. Book your stay and turn your equestrian plans into a well-rounded mountain escape.
Everything You Need to Know About Broadway in Nashville
Why Broadway Street in Nashville Is the First Stop
Broadway Street in Nashville runs through the heart of downtown Nashville from 2nd to 5th Avenue, and it remains the single most requested destination for anyone planning a trip to Music City. Neon signs, open doors, and live bands spilling onto the sidewalk make this stretch instantly recognizable as the famous street in Nashville that appears in nearly every postcard and playlist. Whether you come for the music, the food, or the history, Broadway rewards visitors who take their time and explore beyond the first bar they walk into.
The Honky Tonk Highway: Live Music From Morning to Midnight
Broadway earned its nickname, Honky Tonk Highway, back in the 1930s, and the tradition has never slowed down. Bars along this four-block strip book live country music from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m., every day of the year, with no cover charge required. That means you can wander in for an afternoon set, grab dinner, and still catch a headliner later that night without ever paying a door fee. It is one of the few strips in the country where the music never really stops, and it is the reason Broadway continues to define Nashville’s identity as Music City.
Beyond the Bars: More to Do Along and Near Broadway
Broadway is not only about honky tonks. The strip sits near several of the city’s most visited music landmarks, including the Ryman Auditorium, which served as the home of the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974, and the Country Music Hall of Fame and Johnny Cash Museum, both within easy walking distance. For food, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken remains a go-to stop for an authentic Nashville lunch, while Acme Feed and Seed offers a rooftop bar with views of the Cumberland River inside a converted 1890s farm supply building.
When you need a break from the crowds, Riverfront Park sits just off Broadway and hosts open-air concerts throughout the year. Sports fans can also find Bridgestone Arena nearby, home to the Nashville Predators and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame.
Where to Stay Near Broadway Street in Nashville
After a day spent moving between honky tonks, most visitors want a place to unwind that still feels like part of the Nashville story. Belle Air Mansion, one of Nashville’s few remaining Greek Revival homes, sits just a few miles from Broadway and offers a quieter alternative to a standard downtown hotel. The 16-room property was named one of Nashville’s nine most endangered historic buildings in 2014 before undergoing a full restoration, and today it welcomes guests with a multi-course Southern breakfast included every morning and grounds that feature a 200-year-old rose garden. This Bed and Breakfast in Nashville is a destination in itself. Book your stay directly through the property to secure your room for Nashville’s busy season, which runs from April through October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broadway Street in Nashville
Where is Broadway Street located in Nashville?
Broadway runs through downtown Nashville from 2nd Avenue to 5th Avenue, anchored near the Cumberland River and within walking distance of the Ryman Auditorium.
Is Broadway Street in downtown Nashville?
Yes. Broadway sits at the center of downtown Nashville and connects many of the city’s most visited landmarks, including Riverfront Park and Bridgestone Arena.
How long is Broadway Street in Nashville?
The most famous stretch, often called Honky Tonk Highway, covers about four blocks, though Broadway itself extends further through downtown.
What time do the bars on Broadway close?
Most honky tonks along Broadway operate from 10 a.m. to 3 a.m., seven days a week, with no cover charge.
What are the best things to do near Broadway Street?
Top options include the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Johnny Cash Museum, Acme Feed and Seed, Hattie B’s Hot Chicken, and a stroll through Riverfront Park.
Everything You Need to Know About the Lancaster Science Factory
Best Things to Know About the Lancaster Science Factory for a Family Getaway
The Lancaster Science Factory is one of the most engaging family-friendly attractions in the area and a fantastic option for things to do in Lancaster, PA, with kids. This hands-on science museum in Lancaster, PA, invites visitors to touch, test, build, and experiment through more than 75 interactive exhibits designed for ages three and up. From colorful visuals to movement-based challenges, it keeps young learners curious while adults often find themselves just as involved.
Families especially appreciate the museum on rainy days, as it remains one of the top indoor activities in Lancaster, PA. Exhibits focus on real-world STEM concepts, including Light and Vision, Electricity and Magnetism, Mechanics and Motion, Structural Engineering, Acoustics and Sound, and Fluid Dynamics. Rotating puzzle and brain teaser displays keep repeat visits interesting, while the Hall of Heroes highlights influential STEM leaders through a fun scavenger hunt.
Plan to spend around 2.5 hours exploring, though admission allows same-day reentry. Tickets can be purchased online in advance, parking is free at nearby lots, and noise-canceling headphones are available upon request. While food is not permitted inside, many walkable dining options make it easy to turn your visit into a full day in downtown Lancaster.
Where to Stay After Visiting the Lancaster Science Factory
After a busy day at the museum, staying at a Farm Bed and Breakfast in PA adds a memorable layer to your family getaway. Verdant View Farm offers a comfortable, welcoming environment just a short drive from the Lancaster Science Factory. Spacious rooms, scenic farmland, and shared spaces provide a relaxed setting where families can reconnect.
Kids often enjoy seeing real-life examples of science concepts they explored earlier in the day, from simple machines to agriculture-based learning. Morning farm-to-table meals and opportunities to help with daily chores add hands-on moments that extend the learning experience beyond the museum. It’s also just the start of great things to do in Lancaster, PA!
Pairing the Lancaster Science Factory with a farm stay creates a balanced itinerary touching on education, comfort, and quality time together. Book your stay and start planning a family trip that offers both discovery and downtime.
Experience The Best of the White Mountains in New Hampshire
Your Guide to the Best Things to Do in the White Mountains of NH
If you are building a list of things to do in the White Mountains, start with the mix that makes this region so easy to love: high ridgelines, dramatic gorges, scenic roads, and walkable towns that still feel like New Hampshire. In one trip, you can balance big, view-heavy hikes with low-effort overlooks and a few local stops for shops, galleries, and craft beverages.
Begin at Franconia Notch State Park, where the scenery brings immediate bliss. Visiting this park is one of the top things to do in the White Mountains. Artists Bluff is a moderate climb with a high reward, especially early in the day when the light hits Echo Lake and the surrounding peaks. For something easier, stay closer to the water and enjoy the lake views without committing to a longer summit route. Then head to the Flume Gorge, another of the ultimate things to do in the White Mountains. It’s a short, unforgettable walk through a narrow granite chasm with boardwalk paths and waterfalls that run strongest after rain and during spring melt.
Hiking is at the top of just about every list when it comes to things to do in the White Mountains. For classic White Mountains hiking, step up to bigger routes like the Franconia Ridge Loop if you are experienced and prepared, or choose a shorter summit trail for panoramic views without an all-day push. Waterfall hikes also belong on every itinerary. Trails like Falling Waters turn the climb into a highlight, with multiple cascades along the way and photo stops that feel earned.
Prefer your views with less effort? The Mt. Washington Cog Railway is a timeless way to reach the summit, and on clear days, the horizon stretches across multiple states. If you want the satisfaction of driving your own route, the Mount Washington Auto Road offers a steep, dramatic ascent, just check conditions first because weather changes quickly at elevation.
Plan Your Weekend Getaways Near Franconia Notch State Park
After a full day of exploring, return to a comfortable home base at our elevated Bed and Breakfast in New Hampshire, located close to many top White Mountains attractions. Choose a guest room, suite, or private cottage, then start the next morning with a gourmet breakfast crafted with local flavor and warmth. If you want your days planned with less effort, we can coordinate select experiences with trusted local guides and outfitters, from privately guided hikes to rock climbing excursions. In the evening, settle in for an exceptional meal at our on-site dinner restaurant, then unwind and do it all again tomorrow. Book direct and make your White Mountains getaway easy from start to finish.
Explore All the Best Things to Do at the Mount Hope Estate
Best Mount Hope Estate Attractions and Events
Mount Hope Estate stands as one of the most distinctive historic destinations in eastern Pennsylvania, offering visitors a combination of history, entertainment, and craft experiences on a beautifully preserved property. Located just outside Lancaster, this 35-acre estate provides a setting where guests can explore centuries-old architecture while enjoying a dynamic calendar of events and activities.
Originally established as the summer residence of the Grubb family, Mount Hope Estate reflects more than 200 years of regional history. The property once served as a self-contained community, complete with essential buildings that supported daily life in early-industrial Pennsylvania. Today, visitors can walk the grounds and gain insight into that legacy while appreciating the preserved Federal-style mansion and surrounding landscape.
One of the most recognized features of Mount Hope Estate is its formal garden. Designed in the early 1800s, the space includes structured layouts, ornamental elements, and seasonal plantings that create a refined environment for a leisurely visit. It remains one of the few historic gardens of its kind still intact in the United States.
Mount Hope Estate & Winery adds another dimension to the visit, with multiple on-site producers offering wine, craft beer, cider, and spirits. Tastings allow guests to sample locally produced beverages while enjoying the estate’s atmosphere. This combination of historic setting and modern craft production contributes to the property’s appeal.
Throughout the year, Mount Hope Estate events bring additional energy to the grounds. The Pennsylvania Renaissance Faire is the most widely recognized, transforming the estate into a themed village with performances, artisan vendors, and live demonstrations. Other seasonal events, including cultural festivals and dinner-theater experiences, offer varied reasons to return.
Stay at a Lancaster Bed and Breakfast
Pair your visit with a stay at a Lancaster Bed and Breakfast to create a well-rounded experience. Located within a short drive of Mount Hope Estate, these accommodations offer a quieter setting after a full day of exploring. Guests can expect thoughtfully prepared breakfasts and comfortable spaces that reflect the region’s character.
For those seeking unique things to do near Lancaster, PA, Mount Hope Estate offers a setting that blends history, entertainment, and local flavor. Planning ahead allows visitors to align their trip with seasonal events and fully experience one of the region’s most engaging destinations.