AAA Via - September/October 2026

SEPTEMBER + OCTOBER 2026

CELEBRATE THE BEST OF FALL FESTIVALS AAA TRAVEL DEALS & DISCOVERIES U-PICK APPLE FARMS IN OREGON & IDAHO

THE AAA MAGAZINE

SLOW TRAVEL

SAVOR EACH STEP OF THE JOURNEY

EXPEDITION CRUISES

DISCOVER REMOTE DESTINATIONS

STANLEY, IDAHO

SEE THE SAWTOOTHS IN FULL COLOR

World Class Award Winning Golf Featuring our

World Famous Goat Golf Caddies

Reserve your tee time today! Visit silvies.us or call 541.573.5150

Maximize Your AAA Membership Journey confidently with AAA, where your Membership and its exclusive benefits travel with you.

24/7 Roadside Assistance

Mobile Battery Service

Identity Theft Protection

Get coverage in any car. whether you are the driver or passenger.

We'll test, diagnose, and even install a new AAA Battery you can buy from us.

Activate your FREE enrollment in ProtectMylD® Essential to secure your personal data.

Scan or Visit a AAA Service Center and see all the ways to benefit!

Travel Preparation

Members-Only Benefits

Visit a Service Center for pre-trip essentials like travel planning, passport photos, maps, and more.

Members save on bundling insurance products, home security monitoring, plus cruises and tours, discounts on gas, restaurants, auto repair, EV charging, and more.

HARVEST MORE MEMORIES

ENJOY THE SEASON WORTH SAVORING, JUST WEST OF PORTLAND

Olea Vineyards

As the vineyards come alive with harvest, discover Portland’s closest wine country at its most vibrant.

Enjoy small-batch wines, meet passionate winemakers, and linger over colorful vineyard views that turn an afternoon tasting into a memory worth returning for.

TUALATINVALLEY.ORG/WINE

etvor.com/wine53

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| CONTENTS

STANLEY, IDAHO

SEPTEMBER +OCTOBER

2026

The Sawtooth Valley delivers the perfect autumn mountain escape, from alpine lakes to dark skies.

Volume 26, Issue 5

13

| SMART TRAVEL

Kick off fall with seasonal savings, safety tips and exclusive member benefits.

21

| ON THE ROAD

Celebrate the turning of the season at exhibits and events around Oregon and Idaho.

26

| ROAD TRIP

Hand pick the sweetest apples at farms and orchards around Oregon and Idaho.

ALL PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP COURTESY OF: VISIT IDAHO | PENDLETON ROUND UP/NATE VAN MOL | BRASADA RANCH | ISTOCK/MANTAPHOTO

44

34

34

| GETAWAY

Best of Fall Festivals From sheep parades to pumpkin regattas, experience the Northwest’s most memorable festivals.

40

40

11

| PRESIDENT’S NOTES

12

| AAA DIRECTORY

50

| PARTING SHOT

26

| DISCOVER

Slow Travel Trade bucket lists for deeper connections when traveling with intention.

44

| DESTINATION

Expedition Cruises Journey beyond the ordinary on small-ship expeditions to some of the world’s wild and remote locations.

AAA | Via

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THE AAA MAGAZINE

PUBLISHED BY

o rego n m edia.co m PUBLISHERS & OWNERS CEO Heather Huston Johnson President Ross Johnson EDITORIAL Editor in Chief Casey Hatfield-Chiotti Editor Katie Henry Custom Publications Editor Heidi Hausler Associate Editor Siena Dorman Copy Editor Stephanie Boyle Mays DESIGN Executive Creative & Brand Director Jon Taylor Carter Creative & Marketing Director Cali Clement Senior Graphic Designer Jeremiah Crisp Digital Production Assistant Nikki Arceno

Country Village Store Stop by our flagship store for gift baskets, gourmet food, premium wine, and more.

Contact editorial: viaeditorial@oregonmedia.com Contact advertising: sales@oregonmedia.com Contents copyrighted © 2026 by AAA Oregon/Idaho. No part of VIA may be reprinted without written permission.

378,736 COPIES VIA (ISSN 2473-5183) is published bimonthly by Oregon Media, LLC, 70 SW Century Dnve, STE 100, Bend, OR 97702. Periodicals Postage: Paid at Portland, OR, and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to VIA, Membership Records, 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201.

MULTIMEDIA STRATEGY Director of Multimedia Strategy Ronnie Harrelson Multimedia Strategists Bootsie Boddington, Susan Crow, Bob Gorham Multimedia and Marketing Strategist Kim Molnar Multimedia and Marketing Coordinator McKenzie Klecker OPERATIONS Director of Operations Heather Renee Wong Circulation Manager Amara Spittler Print Consultant Clarke Fine

OPEN DAILY 9AM–6PM 1314 Center Drive, Medford, Oregon 97501 541-864-2278 • HarryandDavid.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Melanie Haiken, Alex Pulaski and Kris Rose Subscription rate: AAA primary members, $2 (included in dues).

Change of address: Allow four weeks advance notice. Call (888) 422-2503 or email the Membership Department at membership@AAAoregon.com.

©2026 Harry and David, LLC, Medford, OR, DBA Harry & David.

PRINTS 4/0

8

CM AAA AD Y K ST27 Sept-Oct SUMMER 2026 September | October 2026 EVENT

DELIVERY

DESCRIPTION

SIGN CODE

DETAIL

ROUND

ROUND DATE

AD

3.375 x 4.625

CRF

7/13/26

ON THE COVER Central Oregon’s Brasada Ranch offers foraged meals accompanied by music.

Photo courtesy of Brasada Ranch

Your Rewards are About to

Take Off Earn up to 5% cash back on your adventures.1

Use your AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Card and earn: 5% cash back at gas and electric vehicle-charging stations1 3% cash back on travel, restaurant, grocery store and

AAA purchases1

1% cash back on all other purchases2 You’ll also enjoy the added value of a $0 annual fee, 0% foreign 3 transaction fees

SPECIAL OFFER: Earn a $100 statement credit when you spend $1,000 4

See agent at member desk for more details.

Learn more at AAA.com/creditcard or by scanning this QR code.

1 Offer is exclusive to AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Cardholders enrolled in the AAA Travel Advantage program. For offers for the offer. Each merchant is assigned a code by a third party that indicates the merchant’s area of business. Comenity Capital Bank does not have the ability to control assignment of merchant codes. Maximum of $350 USD in cash back in a calendar year on the 5% category and earn 1% cash back on all net eligible purchases thereafter. Excludes third-party insurance and offers, automobile extended warranties, and trip insurance. Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposit, rewards and qualifying purchases at participating AAA locations. This rewards program is provided by Comenity Capital Bank and its terms may change at any time. For full Rewards Terms and Conditions, please see AAA.com/AdvantageTravelTerms.

2 Offer is exclusive to AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Cardholders enrolled in the AAA Travel Advantage program. Cash back can be redeemed as statement credits, direct deposit, rewards and qualifying purchases at participating AAA locations.

3 For new accounts, as of October 2025: Variable Purchase and Balance Transfer APRs of 17.99% to 31.99% based on your credit worthiness at the time of account opening and the Prime Rate. Variable Cash Advance APR of 32.99%, based on Prime Rate. Minimum Interest Charge is $3. Balance Transfer Fee of the greater of $10 or 5% of the transfer. Cash Advance Fee of the greater of $10 or 5% of the advance.

4 Valid one time only. Offer will be received within 1-2 billing cycles after qualifying spend.

Credit card offers are subject to credit approval.

AAA Travel Advantage Visa Signature® Credit Card Accounts are issued by Comenity Capital Bank pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Visa is a registered trademark of Visa International Service Association and used under license.

ADD YOUR TEEN TODAY (It’s on us!)

Make sure your kids are protected, even when you’re not around. Add your 16-19 year old to your AAA membership, and they’ll be covered for their first year at no charge.

Add your teens to AAA today AAA.COM/ADDATEEN 800.564.6222 Must be 16–19 years old when added as an associate member to the membership. Offer valid within the AAA Oregon/ Idaho coverage area, which includes Oregon and the southern 34 counties of Idaho only. Promo code: 2030

T HE R E ’S ONLY ON E YOU L ET ’S KE E P I T T HAT WAY

IDENTITY THEFT PROTECTION IS INCLUDED WITH AAA MEMBERSHIP. Enroll today at AAA.COM/IDTHEFT or call 877.440.6943 ProtectMyID® is provided by Experian®. *Enrollment is required. To be eligible to enroll, you must be 18 years of age or older and a current AAA member. A valid email address and access to the internet is required for ProtectMyID® Essential. Products subject to change or termination at any time without notice. Certain terms, conditions, and restrictions

| PRESIDENT’S NOTES

LEARNING AND ADAPTING Like you, I am amazed at the speed of innovation, including the rapid development of new technologies.

Without question, data analytics and artificial intelligence have the potential to streamline processes and complete tasks that would have seemed unthinkable just a few years ago. But while technology enhances our service delivery, it has always been people who make AAA a best-in-class organization. We use technology to support, but not replace, the human connection. You can always rely on AAA team members at your local Service Center, online and over the phone.

As your trusted partners wherever the road leads, our Oregon and Idaho teams of Roadside Technicians, Travel Experts, Insurance Agents, and Member Service Representatives are committed to continuing education in order to give you the best possible service. Our priority is to eliminate confusion and give our members peace of mind when protecting their dream home or taking that once-in-a-lifetime vacation.

With our world-famous emergency road service, experienced dispatchers and skilled technicians come to the rescue when you need them most. Simply put, they have the training and the know-how to get you to safety. Whether you’re driving a vehicle or riding a motorcycle or bicycle, we’ll provide the highest level of care for you.

We ask you to help keep our technicians and other emergency workers safe. Each year, AAA and towing associations around the country spotlight the third Saturday of October as a reminder to Slow Down and Move Over for emergency personnel working at the roadside. We can all do our part to make sure workers get home safely. When you see a vehicle on the side of the road, please slow down and move over a lane if possible.

We’ll continue to look out for our members in many ways. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety conducts groundbreaking research on vehicle technologies, DIRECTORS + OFFICERS Chair Steven H. Corey Vice Chair Elizabeth J. Cawood President Tim Morgan Treasurer C.E. “Win” Francis

driver behavior and much more, sharing our findings with lawmakers, media and the public. Our Automotive team tests the latest vehicles to evaluate how they will perform in real-world situations. With safety top of mind, AAA research helps to shape both policy and future development.

The world keeps changing, and the new and unfamiliar can make life seem overwhelming at times. We’re thankful for your trust, and we’re excited to keep learning and growing together. Though technology may evolve, our commitment to providing personal assistance to our members will never change. We’re Here for You. How have we helped you in the past? I’d like to hear about how we’ve come to your assistance. Please email me at President@AAAOregonIdaho.com or write to me at 600 SW Market St., Portland, OR 97201 or 7155 W. Denton St., Boise ID 83704.

Your fellow AAA Member,

Tim Morgan, President and CEO

William C.O. Barrett Stacey Dodson Bradley J. Hart

Karen Hinsdale Randolph L. Miller Patricia C. Smullin

Mary Pat Thompson Kerry Tymchuk Gina Walker

AAA | Via

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SMART TRAVEL |

AAA DIRECTORY

FOR GENERAL INFORMATION CALL (888) 422-2503 OR VISIT AAA.COM

CONNECT WITH US

AAA.com facebook.com/ AAAoregonidaho

INSURANCE SERVICES AAA.com/Insurance

Eugene 983 Willagillespie Rd.

POLICYHOLDERS (866) AAA-INSURE (866-222-4678)

Hillsboro 7300 NE Butler St.

NEW SALES (866) AAA-QUOTE (866-222-7868) TRAVEL SERVICES AAA.com/Travel (800) 529-3222

instagram.com/ AAAoregonidaho

Lake Oswego 6 Centerpointe Dr. Medford 1777 E. Barnett Rd. Pendleton 248 SW Dorion Ave. Portland 600 SW Market St. Roseburg 3019 NW Stewart Pkwy.

Salem 2909 Ryan Dr. SE Springfield/Gateway 939 Harlow Rd.

AAA.com/Via OREGON Astoria 303 11th St.

ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE (800) AAA-HELP (800-222-4357)

Grants Pass 1563 NE F St.

Beaverton 8555 SW Apple Way

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES (888) 422-2503

Bend 20350 Empire Ave.

SERVICE CENTERS AAA.com/Locations

Coos Bay 1705 Ocean Blvd. SE

Clackamas 10365 SE Sunnyside Rd. Corvallis 1836 NW Ninth St., Ste. 110

IDAHO Boise 7155 W. Denton St. Idaho Falls 3418 S. 25th East Meridian 2310 E. Overland Rd., Ste. 110 Nampa 16453 N. Marketplace Blvd.

Pocatello 1000 Pocatello Creek Rd., Ste. E5 Twin Falls 1239 Pole Line Rd., Ste. 315

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation Publication Title AAA Oregon/Idaho

Publication Number Filing Date 08/03/2026 24735183

Issue Frequency Bi-Monthly

Annual Subscription Price $2.00

Mailing Address of Known O ce of Publication 600 SW MARKET STREET, Portland OR 97201

Number of Issues Published Annually 6

Contact Person Amara Spittler: 541-389-4383

a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run) b. Paid and/or Requested Circulation

Average No. of Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months

No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date (7/1/24)

404,875

386,067

(1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)

382,475

364,400

21,107

20,319

(3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS

0

0

(4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail)

0

0

(2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)

c. Total Paid Distribution

403582

384,719

d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail)

369

435

(2) Free or Nominal In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541

44

38

(3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail)

0

0

(4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means)

880

875

(1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541

e.

Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d. (1), (2), (3) and (4))

1293

1348

f.

Total Distribution (Sum of 15c. and 15 e.)

404,875

386,067

g.

Copies not Distributed (See Instructions to Publishers #4 (page #3))

0

0

h.

Total (Sum of 15f. and g.)

404,875

386,067

i.

Percent Paid (15c. Divided by 15f. Times 100)

99.75%

99.65%

a.

Paid Electronic Copies

0.00%

0.00%

b.

Total Paid Print Copies (Line 15c.) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a.)

403,582

384,719

c.

Total Print Distribution (Line 15f.) + Paid Electronic Copies (Line 16a.)

404,875

386,067

d.

Percentage Paid (Both Print & Electronic Copies (16b divided by 16c x 100)

99.75%

99.65%

08/03/2026

12

September | October 2026

Horses? On the Runway?

Groundbreaking Pendleton, Oregon | October 15-17 www.interwovenoregon.com

PHOTO COURTESY OF KNOTT'S BERRY FARM

SMART TRAVEL

NO TRICKS, ALL TICKET TREATS

Ghouls just wanna have fun, and we’re here to help you do it for less! Stop haunting your bank account and start planning a festive Halloween spent at your favorite amusement park. Whether you’re looking for a scream-worthy thrill or family-friendly traditions, AAA Tickets has the deals to make your wallet rest in peace.

Sink your fangs into these savings at AAA.com/HalloweenTickets.

AAA | Via

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SMART TRAVEL |

Start the year off right by talking to your loved ones about safety on the road.

AWARENESS |

SCHOOL SAFETY STARTS AT THE CURB

As the school year kicks off, it’s time for drivers to sharpen their focus. Kids are back on sidewalks, in crosswalks, and often where you least expect them, so vigilance matters more than ever.

DITCH DISTRACTIONS

Put the phone away. Children can appear suddenly, especially from between parked cars. Every second of attention counts.

REVERSE WITH CARE

Before backing up, scan your surroundings. Driveways and sidewalks can quickly become danger zones if blind spots go unchecked.

STOP MEANS STOP

Come to a full stop at all signs and pedestrian crossings. Look twice for anyone crossing the road before moving again.

SHARE THE ROAD WITH BIKES

Young cyclists can be unpredictable.

Give them space—at least three feet—and pass cautiously.

A new school year brings fresh routines for everyone. Making safety one of them helps kids start off on the right foot.

EVALUATE YOUR LIFE INSURANCE In the rush of excitement that comes with a major life event—a wedding day, buying a house, welcoming a new baby—it’s important to make sure financial protections are still meeting your needs. If you have more in your life that needs to be protected, consider a new policy or add to your existing one. Taking the time to consider your options is a wise decision for your family’s future. You can start the process online or by contacting a AAA life insurance professional to analyze your circumstances and help determine the type of policy that best fits your needs. Find out more at AAA.com/life.

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September | October 2026

PHOTO TOP ISTOCK/INSIDE CREATIVE HOUSE | BOTTOM COURTESY OF BRASADA RANCH

SLOW DOWN

School zones mean reduced speeds—20 mph or less in Oregon and Idaho—and for good reason.

Lower speeds save lives.

| SMART TRAVEL AWARENESS |

KEEP OUR FIRST RESPONDERS SAFE

Every day, first responders put their lives on the line on our nation’s roads. Police officers, fire and rescue workers, tow truck drivers and emergency technicians perform their jobs within a few feet of speeding vehicles. National Move Over Day is October 17, but you can do your part every day to keep our first responders safe by following the Slow Down, Move Over laws in every state.

The message is simple: When approaching an emergency vehicle or tow truck with its lights illuminated, drivers must slow down and, if possible, move to the adjacent lane.

Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue Battalion Chief fire response vehicle.

FIND VIA ONLINE

ALL PHOTOS CLOCKWISE FROM TOP COURTESY OF: TUALATIN VALLEY FIRE & RESCUE | SOCKWELL | ODP BUSINESS SOLUTIONS | VIA THE AAA MAGAZINE

The same great Via content is also available online, in both digital and flipbook formats. Each membership comes with a print subscription, but if you'd like to change how you receive your copy, simply log into your membership at AAA.com and select your preferences. From print or digital only, to receiving both options, the same great Via stories can be found no matter what you choose. Read more at AAA.com/Via. SAVINGS |

COMPRESSION SOCKS FOR ALL-DAY COMFORT

Sockwell’s graduated compression socks are made in the USA and come in a variety of colors, sizes and compression levels. Crafted with custom-blended homegrown merino wool yarns, they’ll help your feet stay dry and at the perfect temperature throughout every season. Compression socks are ideal for long trips, when relief from prolonged sitting and standing is essential. AAA carries an assortment of both men's and women's at AAA Service Centers. Find your local branch at AAA.com/locations.

BACK TO SCHOOL SAVINGS

Make this school year more affordable with exclusive AAA member savings. Prepare for class with 20% off select frames and 50% off lenses with a complete pair at LensCrafters; take up to 35% off select HP tech; and receive up to 75% off backpacks and school supplies at ODP Business Solutions. Everything you need to succeed is just a click away. See AAA.com/LensCrafters, AAA.com/HP and AAA.com/ODP. AAA | Via

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SMART TRAVEL | SAFETY |

KNOW BEFORE YOU RIDE

E‑bikes have surged in popularity, opening the door for riders of all ages and abilities to get outside and move through their communities with ease. It’s important to ride safely: E-bikes are heavier and can be harder to stop; they are faster than traditional bicycles; and riders need to obey local traffic laws.

Before you hop on, know the basics:

CLASS 1: PEDAL ASSIST

Power is boosted only when you pedal, topping out at 20 mph.

Without a throttle and with access to bike paths, they’re universally accepted. Riders must be at least 14 years old in Oregon.

CLASS 2: THROTTLE + PEDAL ASSIST

Class 2 e‑bikes offer a throttle option, and also max out at 20 mph.

Ideal for stop‑and‑go riding, some trails restrict their use. Riders must be 16 or older in Oregon.

CLASS 3: HIGH-SPEED ASSIST

Built for commuters, these pedal‑assist bikes can reach speeds up to 28 mph. They’re typically limited to roads and bike lanes, and riders must be age 16 or older in Oregon, 15 or older in Idaho.

E‑bikes are redefining how we move, making many roads and trails more accessible. Did you know that your AAA membership includes bicycle service? Learn more at AAA.com/bicycle.

Before you pack your bags, consider adding one more essential: travel insurance. Coverage through Allianz Global Assistance can be surprisingly affordable, and invaluable if plans go sideways. From missed flights to

lost luggage or unexpected medical expenses, insurance helps safeguard both your itinerary and your wallet. A trusted AAA Travel Advisor can guide you to the right coverage. Learn more at AAA.com/travelinsurance.

VEHICLES |

OCTOBER IS CAR CARE MONTH

Get your vehicle road ready for fall with exclusive member savings. Keep your car in top shape with 10% off parts and $22 off AAA Premium Batteries at NAPA Auto Parts, plus 10% off labor at AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities. You can also enjoy $10 off select tires at Discount Tire, save 13¢ per gallon at Love’s Travel Stops, and get up to 20% off car rentals with Hertz.

See AAA.com/NAPAOnline, AAA.com/AAR, AAA.com/DiscountTire, AAA.com/Loves and AAA.com/Hertz.

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September | October 2026

ROAD READY SERVICES Get ready for winter driving with a battery check up. AAA is hosting Road Ready events at select locations throughout Oregon and Idaho in September and October. Find an event near you and RSVP at AAA.com/roadready.

PHOTO TOP ISTOCK/AZMANL | LEFT COURTESY OF NAPA AUTO PARTS AND DISCOUNT TIRE

PROTECT YOUR TRIP WITH INSURANCE

See more and spend less with Hertz & AAA Fall’s on the way – why aren’t you?

Get moving with Hertz as a AAA member for and an rentals – just include AAA Club Discount Code 177 and PC 211950 during booking.* For more perks and even better travel, join our free Hertz Gold+ program. And after your Join now: www.AAA.com/HertzGold

Call: 800-654-3080 | Click: AAA.com/Hertz Visit: Your local AAA branch or your nearest Hertz neighborhood location base rate, minimum 5 days. Discounts apply to Pay Later base rate. Taxes, fees, & options excluded. Promotion Code 211950 and AAA CDP# 177 must Canada, & Puerto Rico. Age, fees may apply in the event of reservation modification, early / late vehicle return or if not returning vehicle to renting location. Valid on all car classes pickups through 12/31/2026. Subject to availability, blackout periods, & additional restrictions. At the time of rental, present your AAA membership card for identification. day will be awarded in the form of 950 Gold+ points after the member’s first paid Gold+ rental. Free day excludes taxes, fees, & options. Skip the counter available at select locations. © 2026 Hertz System, Inc. All rights reserved. CS 1225076

SMART TRAVEL |

JAPAN CHERRY-BLOSSOM CRUISE

AAA Member Appreciation Cruise Sail round trip from Tokyo during Japan’s celebrated cherry-blossom season on this journey featuring a mix of cultural landmarks, scenic coastal cities and historic destinations. The itinerary includes visits to Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Hiroshima, Kochi, Miyazaki, and Shimizu for views of Mt. Fuji, along with a stop in Busan, South Korea and scenic cruising through the Kanmon Straits. Experience Japan’s seasonal beauty, rich history, regional cuisine and vibrant local traditions throughout the voyage. Princess Cruises | 10 Days.

From $2,439 per person. See AAA.com/viatravel.

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AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND Trafalgar | 22 Days

LUXURY FRENCH POLYNESIA CRUISE Silversea | 14 Days

TULIPS & WINDMILLS IN EUROPE Uniworld | 10 Days

U.S. EAST COAST RAIL JOURNEY Amtrak Vacations | 7 Days

Connect with the Outback and fascinating Māori legends on this immersive journey. Beginning in Melbourne and ending in Christchurch, the itinerary features iconic highlights: Uluru, the Great Barrier Reef, Rotorua’s geothermal landscapes, Queenstown, and Lake Tekapo. Guests will experience natural wonders, Indigenous and Māori cultural traditions, plus scenic landscapes and clear night skies.

From $14,309 per person.

Long-held dreams will be realized as you weave through the majesty of French Polynesia with brilliant turquoise lagoons, flamboyant fish and beaches of reclining palm trees. Experience it all for yourself on this adventure, bookended by the iconic island of Tahiti. Discover the illustrious Society Islands, journey to farflung atolls teeming with harmless sharks, and lose yourself in the remote Marquesas Islands.

From $7,380 per person.

From Amsterdam’s canals to Bruges’ belfry, discover the best of the Netherlands and Belgium. Stroll Keukenhof’s vibrant tulip fields, explore charming villages like Dordrecht, Hoorn and Enkhuizen, and visit the open-air Zuiderzee Museum.

Enjoy an immersive tour in Antwerp and a canal cruise through Bruges.

Along the way, savor Dutch and Belgian treats as you travel.

From $3,999 per person.

Embark on an East Coast journey by train. Start in Boston, exploring the Freedom Trail and North End with a hop-on, hop-off tour and CityPass. Travel by Amtrak to New York City to see sights like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building. Continue to Washington, D.C., to enjoy a Monuments by Moonlight experience, and visit Arlington National Cemetery. Blend three iconic cities into one unforgettable adventure.

From $1,459 per person.

September | October 2026

PHOTO ISTOCK/TAWATCHAIPRAKOBKIT

TRAVEL DEALS |

9 OUT OF 10 CUSTOMERS WOULD RECOMMEND AAA INSURANCE. Find out why we're so loved and get a quote at AAA.COM/GETAQUOTE.

Based on an Oct–Nov 2025 survey of current auto policy customers. Insurance provided by CSAA Insurance Group, a AAA insurer.

VISITANCHORAGE.NET

Find it all in one place.

ON VIEW NOW

Real Titanic Artifacts Recovered from the Ocean Floor

PHOTO COURTESY OF INTERWOVEN MARKET/ALEXIS CADY

ON THE ROAD

STYLE TAKES THE REINS

Western heritage and Indigenous artistry come alive on the runway during Interwoven, held October 15 through 17 in Pendleton, Oregon. The inaugural three-day festival celebrates fashion, art and culture, bringing together emerging designers, master makers and performers from across the West. Alongside runway presentations, visitors can experience the festival’s signature horseback fashion showcase, where riders and garments take center stage. The Interwoven Market features 82 curated makers offering regional art, food and fashion, while the UnResidency Program highlights emerging textile artists and designers.

Visitors can browse one-of-a-kind creations, meet the makers and explore programming that celebrates the traditions and innovations shaping Western and Indigenous design. Learn more at interwovenoregon.com.

AAA | Via

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5,000 deer, elk, bear, and other large animals are killed in collisions with cars and trucks every year. Collisions with wildlife or accident avoidance also claim the lives of 1-2 motorists annually. Funds from your purchase of a Watch for Wildlife license plate support projects in Oregon that help wildlife move safely around busy highways and between habitat patches. Learn how you can help at myOWF.org/wildlifemoves

| ON THE ROAD CELEBRATION |

DECADES OF ART IN THE PEARL Ringing in its 30th anniversary, Art In The Pearl returns to Portland.

Taking place over Labor Day weekend, September 5 through 7, 140 juried artists from across the country will transform the North Park Blocks into an open-air gallery. Visitors can browse paintings, ceramics, glass, jewelry, photography and handcrafted furniture while meeting the artists behind the work. Hands-on activities and educational demonstrations invite learning alongside the artists, making this nationally recognized festival as engaging for families as it is for collectors. With live music and events throughout the weekend, the free celebration highlights creativity, craftsmanship and represents Portland’s local culture and talents. See artinthepearl.com.

FESTIVAL |

PHOTOS FROM TOP COURTESY OF ART IN THE PEARL/ARTIST SHAWN HARRIS | MIDDLE ISTOCK/MIROSLAV_1 | BOTTOM COURTESY OF MARCO ANTONIO ARELLANO

A CENTURY ACROSS THE COLUMBIA

The Bridge of the Gods turns 100 this year.

Cascade Locks, Oregon, is celebrating the milestone with a free-admission Centennial Celebration on September 19. Located at Cascade Locks Marine Park, the festival will honor a century of travel across the Columbia River Gorge with live music, games, presentations and a marketplace featuring regional artists and businesses. Visitors can browse a classic car show, enjoy food vendors and discover exhibits highlighting the bridge’s century-long role in connecting communities across the Columbia. The celebration will also include family activities and a raffle benefiting the Friends of the Cascade Locks Historical Museum.

See portofcascadelocks.gov.

DISCOVERY |

FINDING YOUR MARBLES

Downtown Salem becomes one giant scavenger hunt during the Great Marble Hunt on September 13 at 9 am. Crafted by an award-winning glass artist, 100 handmade glass marbles are hidden throughout designated “marble zones.” Clues are posted on Instagram throughout the day, guiding attendees to local shops, parks and landmarks. Each discovered marble becomes a one-of-a-kind keepsake for its finder.

The free event welcomes collectors, families and anyone looking for an inventive way to experience the city. See marbleconnection.com.

AAA | Via

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ON THE ROAD | COMMUNITY |

HARVEST HULLABALOO

Autumn in Idaho comes with crisp apples and a community celebration during Apple Palooza in downtown Coeur d’Alene.

Held on October 17, the event is centered around the Fifth Street Farmers Market Harvest and pairs seasonal produce with live music, local vendors and family-friendly activities.

A tasting wristband lets visitors sample apple-inspired treats from more than a dozen participating businesses—think pies, caramel apples and mulled cider—before casting a vote for their favorite. The winning treat earns the coveted Golden Apple award. Supporting local farmers and downtown business, Apple Palooza celebrates one of the season’s sweetest bounties. See cdadowntown.com.

MUSIC |

The sounds of jazz, blues, gospel and big band music fill the air in Sun Valley, Idaho, during the Sun Valley Jazz and Music Festival. From October 15 to 18, more than 100 performances take place across four venues, creating four days of music in an intimate mountain setting. World-class musicians perform throughout the festival, while special events including gospel showcases, swing dancing and the Big Band Bash round out the long weekend. Each year, the festival becomes a reunion of music lovers, celebrating the timeless way melodies can create connection and community. See sunvalleyjazz.com.

TRADITION |

SALT LICK SCULPTURES

On September 26 in Baker City, Oregon, weathered livestock salt licks become unlikely works of art. The Great Salt Lick Contest & Auction showcases salt blocks sculpted by cattle, horses and wildlife into unexpected abstract forms before auctioning the art to benefit Parkinson’s disease research at OHSU. Raising more than $239,000, the unusual tradition has become a beloved celebration of Eastern Oregon ranching culture.

Visitors can browse the entries, enjoy local food and drinks, then watch the spirited live auction unfold inside the historic Churchill School. See churchillbaker.com.

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September | October 2026

PHOTO TOP COURTESY OF APPLE PALOOZA | MIDDLE ISTOCK/ NONO57 | BOTTOM LEFT ISTOCK/GROOMEE | BOTTOM RIGHT COURTESY OF WHIT DESCHNER

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ROAD TRIP |

PICK OF THE

Crop

From heritage orchards to family farms, these six spots offer the best of the Northwest, straight from the tree WRITTEN BY KATIE HENRY

Kiyokawa Family Orchards

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September | October 2026

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othing says fall quite like biting into a fresh, hand-picked Honeycrisp, or baking a pie filled with Gravensteins harvested that very morning. Across Oregon and Idaho, autumn brings the cool nights and sunny days that help apples develop their crisp texture, bright color and concentrated sweetness. And September is the best time to visit U-Pick farms for the fruit at its prime. From Mount Hood to southern Idaho, discover destinations that pair memorable apple picking with rich history, stunning scenery and a taste of the Northwest’s agricultural heritage.

Tucked along the North Fork of the John Day River in Kimberly, Oregon, the fertile land on which Thomas Orchards is situated has been producing fruit since the early 1900s. Today, the third generation of Thomas family descendants continue the tradition, welcoming visitors to a landscape framed by the Blue Mountains, the John Day River and the geologic wonders of the nearby John Day Fossil Beds. While the organic orchard also grows pit fruits like cherries and peaches, fall belongs to the apples. See kimberlyfruitcompany.com.

What to pick: Gala KIYOKAWA FAMILY ORCHARDS | Parkdale, Oregon

In the shadow of Mount Hood, the fruit trees at Kiyokawa Family Orchards thrive in the Hood River Valley’s volcanic soils and cool mountain climate.

Family-owned since 1911, the Parkdale, Oregon, orchard reflects generations of Japanese-American farming heritage. The largest U-Pick in the valley, Kiyokawa is known for its robust farm stand, and for growing more than 120 apple varieties—many rare heirlooms and special varieties that are difficult to find anywhere else. In addition to apples, find cider, jams and fresh honey. See kiyokawafamilyorchards.com.

What to pick: Gravenstein VALLEY VIEW ORCHARD | Ashland, Oregon

Originating before 1900, Valley View Orchard remains one of the Pacific Northwest’s oldest continuously operating orchards. Located in Ashland, Oregon, the historic farm has been certified organic since 2002 and specializes in preserving heirloom fruit varieties, making it a living piece of agricultural history. With a commitment to preservation of heritage apples and set in the picturesque Rogue Valley, Valley View offers a picking experience of both tradition and stewardship.

See valleyvieworchardorganics.com.

What to pick: Newtown Pippin

MOUNTAIN VIEW ORGANIC ORCHARDS | Bonners Ferry, Idaho

In Idaho’s far northern corner, where the Selkirk and Cabinet mountains frame the Kootenai River Valley, Mountain View Organic Orchard combines stunning scenery with a passion for preserving apple history.

The family-owned orchard was originally established

by George and Janice Johnson, who transformed pastureland into a thriving fruit farm today dedicated to growing lapin cherries in the summer and apples in the fall. Visitors can pick an array of apples while taking in panoramic mountain views. See mvorganicorchard.com.

What to pick: Honeycrisp KELLEY’S CANYON ORCHARD | Filer, Idaho

What began as a small farm in the early 1900s has grown into an Idaho U-Pick mainstay. Located in the Snake River Canyon, Kelley’s Canyon Orchard has been family owned for four generations. While apples are the star of autumn, the orchard’s appeal extends with peonies in spring, cherries and peaches in summer, and the option to immerse in farm life with a stay in the cottage once inhabited by the current generation's grandmother, Mary Anne Gourley Kelley.

See kelleyscanyonorchard.com.

What to pick: Jonathan WILLIAMS FRUIT RANCH | Emmett, Idaho

Four generations have cultivated fruit in Emmett Valley, building a ranch that has become a local institution. The family orchard began small in 1890, but it is now one of the region’s best-known agritourism destinations, while remaining steeped in the traditions and values passed down through more than a century of farming. Visitors can pick apples straight from the trees, browse the farm market for fresh produce and homemade treats, or stop by the bakery for fruit-filled pastries made with the ranch’s harvest.

See williamsfruitranch.com.

PHOTO SPREAD COURTESY OF KIYOKAWA FAMILY ORCHARDS

THOMAS ORCHARDS | Kimberly, Oregon

What to pick: Golden Delicious AAA AAA || Via Via

27 27

Every Stay at Salishan Coastal Lodge Comes With

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For a time to relax in the beauty of huge Ponderosa pines and a magnificent river, visit the Metolius Basin in Central Oregon (Camp Sherman). Hike, fly fish, mountain bike, snow ski (in season), view wildlife or just sit in front of a fire and watch the river go by. Cabins for rent at 8 resorts and great food available at several locations. Visit MetoliusRiver.com.

Stanley

| WEEKENDER

IN FALL COLOR Central Idaho’s Sawtooth Valley comes alive with golden foliage, dark-sky stargazing and endless opportunities for exploration

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT IDAHO

WRITTEN BY KRIS ROSE

S

tanley, Idaho has long enjoyed the prestigious status of being a nature lover’s dream. Less than a three-hour drive from Boise—and at the intersection of three scenic byways, three national forests, five mountain ranges and the epic Sawtooth National Recreation Area—it’s easy to see why.

What began as a frontier village has blossomed into a premier outpost where exploration and relaxation draw easygoing travelers and adventure-seekers alike.

When summer heat subsides and crowds dwindle, bright foliage and snow-capped peaks emerge in this amphitheater of unadorned majesty.

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WEEKENDER | Fishhook Creek Trail

Tucked into Idaho's Stanley Basin at 6,260 feet, this friendly mountain town explodes with golden quaking aspens in the fall and welcomes visitors with its rustic charm, dirt streets and sweeping views of the jagged Sawtooth Mountains.

Stanley may not take up much space—the city itself covers more than half a square mile—but it offers ample options for kickstarting a Sawtooth getaway.

Riverwear Outfitters is the go-to spot for outdoor retail and year-round rentals, with everything from cross-country skis to kayaks, boats and camping gear.

Shop local at the Made in Idaho Store, where founder Adam Gulick’s curation of artisanal goods, handcrafted jewelry, photography and art showcase some of the state’s best wares.

Venturing into the wilderness? Head to the Stanley Visitor Center for maps and local updates, then swing by 30

September | October 2026

Redfish Lake

the Mountain Village Mercantile for groceries, gear and souvenirs before hitting the road.

Iconic and tranquil, Redfish Lake acts as a one-stop shop for year-round recreation just 10 minutes from downtown Stanley. Autumn brings ideal weather for hiking the lake’s extensive trail system and enjoying its beaches and mountain views, while guided horseback rides at Redfish Corrals connect you to some of the area’s best scenery. The 4.6-mile, out-and-back Fishhook Creek Trail is lined with verdant conifers, bright yellow aspens and the sunset hues of mountain willow,

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VISIT IDAHO

PLAY |

| WEEKENDER red-osier dogwood and black cottonwoods. Beautiful views of the close by Sawtooth and White Cloud peaks and limited elevation gain make this trek a favorite for families, hikers and cross-country skiers.

Locals love the more challenging and rewarding Sawtooth Lake Trail situated six miles west of town. Start at the Iron Creek Trailhead and enjoy instant access to alpine serenity. For higher gear fun, riders often gravitate toward Stanley’s trio of mountain biking loops: the Redfish Lake, Elk Meadows and Fisher Creek loops all offer exciting tracks and epic autumn backdrops.

Sunbeam Hot Springs on the Salmon River

PHOTO TOP BY LOR & JOR EXPLORE | MIDDLE AND BOTTOM COURTESY OF VISIT IDAHO

DISCOVER |

No visit to Idaho feels complete without enjoying one of the state's 130-plus natural hot springs, and fall brings a backdrop of color to these natural springs. Visit Sunbeam Hot Springs 20 minutes from town for a dip in one of several undeveloped, sandy-bottom pools next to the rushing Salmon River. These pools are free to visit and the most accessible along the Sawtooth corridor.

About an hour west of Stanley on the Ponderosa Pine Scenic Byway, the more secluded Sacagawea Hot Springs offer nearly a quarter mile of geothermal pools riverside to the South Fork of the Payette River.

Be careful: The water here is often extremely hot near the source. Drive 20 minutes farther west to unwind at Bonneville Hot Springs. Under the towering pines of Boise National Forest, you’ll walk a .25-mile trail before reaching Warm Springs Creek, hot springs nestled on the riverbank and a private soaking shack.

Set within the Central Idaho Dark Sky Reserve, Stanley itself is part of a 1,400-mile swath of the Sawtooth Mountains with exceptionally clear night skies. There are only about a dozen gold-tier International Dark Sky Reserves across the globe, and this was America’s first to receive the highly-coveted designation. Experience meteor showers, visit the newly opened Sawtooth Observatory or schedule your stay around the next new moon for truly remarkable stargazing.

Sawtooth National Recreation Area

INDULGE |

Both travelers and locals start their day at the Stanley Baking Company & Cafe. Open from mid May through late October, owners Becky and Tim Cron have been serving up pastries, coffee and what is considered Central Idaho’s best breakfast burrito here for more than two decades. Around the corner is Papa Brunee’s Pizza & Subs, where Aunt Ruby’s secret pizza sauce recipe and housemade Italian sausage make this a beloved spot after any AAA | Via

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THIS: Redfish Lake Lodge ABOVE: Sunset Appetizer Cruise

outdoor excursion. Try a house-favorite pizza like the Sawtooth Special, or grab an Italian sub to-go for the perfect lakeside snack.

At Limbert’s, up-close views of Redfish Lake from the 1929 lodge’s first floor pair wonderfully with a menu highlighting local game and native ingredients: The steak frites feature Thomas Cattle Ranch hanger steak and fresh Idaho potatoes, while the flavors of Mexican street corn and a lime beurre blanc complement the Idaho steelhead trout. Looking to share something? The Stanley Supper Club’s Fried Chicken for Two, served with mashed potatoes, scratch sauces and house-baked bread, was featured in The New York Times Best Dishes Across the U.S. series.

REST |

Just off Stanley’s Wall Street, the Stanley High Country Inn offers cabins and rooms with Sawtooth mountain views, and an outdoor hot tub for guests to 32

September | October 2026

reserve by the hour. Or relax on the Redfish Riverside Inn’s deck along the Salmon River while looking for leaping trout and bald eagles. At the 61-room Mountain Village Resort, guests appreciate the central location, full-service fuel station, mercantile store and proximity to the Mountain Village Restaurant & Saloon, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner year-round.

On the shores of Redfish Lake—known by locals as the “jewel of the Sawtooth National Recreation Area”—the Redfish Lake Lodge boasts two dozen suites, 21 cabins and the original 97-year-old lodgehouse framed along the lake’s north shore. Head out on a sunset boat tour from the lodge’s marina, or rent a kayak or pontoon and explore the water at your own pace. After the sun has set, cozy up to the fireplace in the Rustic Lounge as a canopy of stars covers the Sawtooth Valley.

PLAN A TRIP

Planning your getaway is easy with AAA Travel.

Book hotel stays, reserve rental cars, and get maps to help guide you at AAA.com/travel.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF REDFISH LAKE LODGE (2)

WEEKENDER |

FALL IN

Full Swing

Hop around to festivals across the Northwest for a taste of local spirit WRITTEN BY MELANIE HAIKEN

B

ite into a fluffy apple fritter, clamber aboard a farm wagon hayride, admire the clay textures of a master potter or dance the polka in a biergarten lit by lanterns to take part in season-changing revelry that dates back thousands of years. From the Medieval feast of Lammas and the Chinese Moon Festival to the ancient Celtic rituals of Samhain, communities

across the world have come together in the crisp air of autumn to celebrate the bounty of the harvest and welcome guests to experience their cultural traditions.

Today, with festivities ranging from the offbeat and quirky to the artful and awe-inspiring, there are more ways than ever to mark the turning of the season in Oregon and Idaho.

West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta Festival October 18, 2026

Forget Cinderella’s coach, it’s all about boats at the West Coast Giant Pumpkin Regatta Festival, a chaotic assembly of costumed paddlers racing across Lake of the Commons in massive hollowed-out gourds.

Founded in 2004 by the Pacific Giant Vegetable Growers, the regatta takes its mission semi-seriously, kicking off the day before with Pumpkins and Pints at Stickmen Brewing and rolling out a variety of activities that straddle both the west and east side of the Lake. Get in the spirit and wear a costume before participating in pumpkin-inspired games, contests and even a giant coloring mural.

See parks.tualatinoregon.gov.

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September | October 2026

PHOTO COURTESY OF CITY OF TUALATIN’S WEST COAST GIANT PUMPKIN REGATTA

TUALATIN, OREGON |

| GETAWAY

Trailing of the Sheep Festival KETCHUM AND SUN VALLEY, IDAHO |

October 7-11, 2026

PHOTOS TOP COURTESY OF TRAILING OF THE SHEEP FESTIVAL/CAROL WALLER (5) | BOTTOM MT ANGEL OKTOBERFEST (3)

For one day every October, Idaho’s Wood River Valley rings with the tinkling of bells of more than 1,200 sheep making their fall migration from summer pastures high in the Sawtooth Mountains to more temperate winter grazing below.

The “trailing” tradition dates back more than 150 years to the arrival of Scottish and Basque, and later Peruvian, shepherds, whose food, dance and music are at the heart of the Trailing of the Sheep Festival, now in its 30th year. Of the many events that make up this awardwinning celebration, the Folklife Fair hosts shearing demonstrations, dance and music performances, and food booths offering endless variations of lamb. The Wool Fest offers classes in knitting, weaving and other crafts. And the National Qualifying Sheepdog Trials showcase the intricate maneuvering of highly trained border collies. See trailingofthesheep.org.

Mt Angel Oktoberfest MOUNT ANGEL, OREGON |

September 17-20, 2026

It’s impossible to miss the Bavarian influence in Mount Angel, which was inhabited

by Swiss-German immigrants in the 1880s. From the timber-framed houses and the glockenspiel clock that looms over the town center to the German lager and home-made schnitzel offered

in numerous traditional biergartens, it’s no wonder the boisterous four-day Mt Angel Oktoberfest is the largest in the Pacific Northwest. Raise a stein of bavarian-style brew before learning to polka at the Friday night street dance.

Witness wiener dog races and cheer on children as they participate in traditional Bavarian dances. Or take it all in while enjoying flute, harp and choral music in the gothic St. Mary Church, where the transformation to a German village becomes complete. See oktoberfest.org.

AAA | Via

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GETAWAY |

Pendleton Round-Up and Tribal Fair PENDLETON, OREGON |

September 12-19, 2026

One of the world's premier rodeos, inducted into the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 2008, the Pendleton Round-Up draws upwards of 50,000 people to watch bronc riding, cattle roping, tribal dancing and the massive Westward Ho! Parade of ox-drawn covered wagons, horse-drawn buggies, Mormon carts and other modes of historic transportation.

Founded in 1910, the week-long celebration is hosted in partnership with the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, which include the Cayuse, Umatilla and Walla Walla tribes. A village of more than 300 tipis spreads across the field in Roy Raley Park and a tribal market showcases crafts and food. Several generations of participants enter the Happy Canyon Night Show and Pageant (celebrating its 110 year anniversary in 2026), and the bareback, Wahkeena Falls high-speed Indian Relay Races keep spectators on the edge of their seats as riders leap between galloping horses. See pendletonroundup.com.

Idaho Spud Day SHELLEY, IDAHO |

With a spud-picking contest and a potato tug-of-war, the antics in store at Idaho Spud Day—a beloved state tradition since 1927—are unexpected and downright fun.

This is as down-home as it gets, with potato sack races, a French fry-eating contest, cornhole tournament and tractor parade among the highlights. Activities also include a car show, 5K Spud Run and 1-Mile Walk, and a pageant in which high school-age contestants compete to become Miss Russet. Yet, at the heart of the celebration is the community, which comes together to honor the humble potato and the families that work so hard throughout the year to grow the region’s essential produce.

See idahospudday.com.

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September | October 2026

PHOTOS TOP COURTESY OF PENDLETON ROUND UP/NATE VAN MOL (3) | BOTTOM ISTOCK/JULIA_SUDNITSKAYA

September 19, 2026

Spirit of Halloweentown ST. HELENS, OREGON |

Fridays through Sundays, September 26-November 1, 2026

PHOTOS COURTESY OF SPIRIT OF HALLOWEENTOWN (4)

It may have been almost 30 years since Disney Channel’s wildly popular Halloweentown aired in 1998, but families and fans of the cult classic have kept the memory alive in St. Helens with the annual Spirit of Halloweentown festival. On weekends from late September through early November, the Wild West main street downtown becomes reminiscent of the movie’s set—which was actually filmed there—complete with haunted houses, a rare-reptile exhibit and a secret speakeasy hidden inside an alien spaceship. Don a favorite costume before hopping on a trolley for a film tour and hobnobbing with former cast members, then watch the Great Pumpkin Lighting when the sun goes down. See spiritofhalloweentown.co.

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GETAWAY |

Thousand Springs Festival of the Arts WENDELL, IDAHO |

September 26-27, 2026 Few art festivals can boast a setting as verdant as Thousand Springs Festival of the Arts, lining the shore of the Snake River along Ritter Island in the boundaries of Thousand Springs State Park. Stroll among more than 100 booths to peruse paintings, photography, ceramics and weaving, or admire the wares from aboard a canoe or kayak while enjoying old-time fiddle tunes, jazz and rollicking country blues from stages at each end of the island. For an enhanced experience, hike to Lemon Falls or Minnie Miller Springs, ride in a wagon pulled by a mule or draft horse, and learn a new skill in one of the ongoing demonstrations by participating artists.

See magicvalleyartscouncil.org.

Hood River Harvest Fest HOOD RIVER, OREGON | The Columbia River waterfront bursts with bushels of heirloom apples and fresh-picked pears, tables overflowing with jams, cheese and honey, and booths displaying glittering glasswork and vivid ceramics during the Hood River Harvest Fest. Against the backdrop of Mount Hood blanketed in crimson and ochre fall color, the sounds of bluegrass, country and folk music rise from the stage and crowds cheer on competitors in the giant pumpkin carving contest.

See hoodriverharvestfestival.com.

Award-winning journalist Melanie Haiken writes about travel, outdoor adventure, wildlife, food and history for National Geographic, Outside, Afar, Smithsonian, AARP and others.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

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Download the AAA Mobile App before you hit the road. You can map your route, plus find gas stations, EV charging stations, restaurants and hotels. AAA.com/mobile.

September | October 2026

PHOTO TOP COURTESY OF THOUSAND SPRINGS FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS | BOTTOM COURTESY OF HOOD RIVER HARVEST FESTIVAL (2)

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DISCOVER |

CHANGING

Travel Mindset Rather than simply escaping, travelers are seeking more meaningful ways to engage with a place WRITTEN BY CASEY HATFIELD-CHIOTTI

T

his is sacred land,” said my guide, Franklin Martin, a member of the Navajo Nation’s Zuni Edgewater clan, as I looked out at the river bends, flat-topped mesas and vermilion-colored buttes of the Grand Canyon from a remote vantage point few tourists ever see.

The canyon’s East Rim is accessible only by guided tour through a vast, undeveloped stretch of Navajo-owned land. During the all-day excursion, we stopped along the way to learn about Navajo history and local wildlife.

With no restaurants or cell service, I felt far removed from the frenetic pace of modern life. For Martin, the canyon’s beauty extends beyond the superficial.

“The canyon is like a temple to us,” he said.

I began to see the canyon less as a destination for rafting trips and challenging day hikes, but more as something deeper.

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September | October 2026

Slow travel doesn’t require weeks of vacation, but it does ask travelers to ease up and engage with a place in a more meaningful way. From astrotourism experiences viewed through a historical lens to culturally rooted stays exploring Indigenous places and foraging retreats that encourage travelers to embrace their inner huntergatherer, these three ideas for more mindful travel offer the ultimate luxury in today’s hyperconnected world.

STARGAZING WITH A SIDE OF HISTORY | Humankind has looked to the night sky for inspiration and answers throughout history. Celestial travel with a historical perspective makes stargazing adventures even more educational and transformative.

The ancient Maya civilization is famous for designing massive temples to track the sun, moon and planets.

| DISCOVER The ruins of El Castillo under a blanket of stars in the ancient Maya city of Chichen Itza in Yucatan, Mexico.

PHOTO SPREAD BY ISTOCK/FERGREGORY

“

Some of the most impressive Maya archaeological sites are in Belize. Guided tours of Caracol in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve lead visitors through notable landmarks, including Caana, or “Sky Place,” and its observatory, where travelers can gain insight into the Maya calendar, constellations and spiritual connection to the night sky.

Travelers are offered a new perspective when night falls and they experience the stars much as the Maya once did. With remote offshore islands and extensive protected rainforest, Belize has exceptionally low light pollution. Booking a night-diving excursion at the Belize Barrier Reef, with star-filled skies above and nocturnal marine life thriving below, is an unforgettable nighttime adventure. Several local tour companies—often found through accommodations— offer a variety of diving excursions and PADI dive courses.

Scotland is one of the world’s most underrated stargazing destinations, with designated reserves scattered across the Highlands. At the Dark Skydesignated Tomintoul and Glenlivet area in Cairngorms National Park, the surrounding mountains create a natural shield from light pollution. The park’s history includes ancient settlements, Highland clans and whisky smuggling routes. On multi-day walking vacations, visitors might encounter 4,000-year-old rock art and burial cairns, castles, the royal estate of Balmoral and the Abernethy Forest, while also experiencing meteor showers and, possibly, the aurora borealis. Experienced outfitters can organize itineraries that include everything from moderate day hikes to stargazing sessions and stays in Victorian inns and quaint guesthouses in the park.

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DISCOVER |

EXPLORE INDIGENOUS PLACES OF IMPORTANCE |

The largest Native American Reservation in the United States, the Navajo Nation, covers much of Arizona’s northeast corner. Visiting the remote region with unpolluted night skies and majestic California condors offers many opportunities to experience slow-travel through an Indigenous perspective.

Marble Canyon Lodge, a 1926 roadhouse turned outdoorsy base camp with organic, modern décor, gives guests the inside scoop on lesser-visited locations near the Grand Canyon The Stanley Park and other Southwest Totem Poles in Vancouver, British landmarks. Through Columbia, honor partnerships with the region’s First local Navajo-owned Nations’ history. tour operators, guests can responsibly tour Indigenous lands with companies such as Franklin’s Sacred Edge Tours and the femalerun Deer Spring Tours, which organizes visits to the less-touristy Secret Antelope Canyon and a little-known viewpoint overlooking Horseshoe Bend. Other perks of a 42

September | October 2026

stay at the hotel roughly 45 minutes from Page, Arizona, include storytelling fire circles in the evening and local specialties like blue corn pancakes at the lodge’s Lonely Jackrabbit restaurant.

Mindful travel through an Indigenous perspective is not limited to remote areas. While Vancouver, British Columbia, is a sophisticated city with gleaming glass towers and a busy harbor, it is part of a region that is home to more than 200 First Nations, each with distinct stories, languages and traditions. Visit Stanley Park, a 1,000-acre rainforest in the city center, to learn about the Shíshálh (Sechelt) and Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) nations, and how Indigenous communities harvested food, medicine and materials from the forest canopy.

TASTE OF PLACE |

The ancient practice of foraging is experiencing a renaissance, fueled largely by a growing desire among travelers to spend more time outside.

At Brasada Ranch in Central Oregon, chef Karl Holl showcases a passion for foraged ingredients through menus and immersive experiences. Even in the arid high-desert climate, treasures can be found. Between moongazing sessions—Brasada’s 3,000-foot elevation PLAN A TRIP

Planning your getaway is easy with AAA Travel.

Book hotel stays, reserve rental cars, and get maps to help guide you at AAA.com/travel.

PHOTO TOP BY ISTOCK/RICHVINTAGE | BOTTOM ISTOCK/ALEX_533

Monument Valley, on the border of Arizona and Utah, is managed and protected by the Navajo Nation.

| DISCOVER

PHOTO TOP COURTESY OF INN AT NEWPORT RANCH | BOTTOM COURTESY OF BRASADA RANCH

offers clear, open sightlines—and horseback rides with rimrock views, guests can request a special foraging tour with Holl, searching for plants across the property, including western juniper, sagebrush, rye, elderberry, wild strawberry and huckleberry.

The fruits of those efforts are on display at the resort’s Wild Rye restaurant and Foraged Dinner Series, where dishes like Juniper Braised Lamb Shank with rye risotto, pickled morels and fermented ramp chimichurri feature the region’s bold flavors.

“I’m always looking for ways to highlight wild, foraged ingredients in the prime of the seasons,” said Holl.

Biodiversity hotspots such as the California coast offer a wealth of opportunities for a foraging-focused vacation. On the Central Coast, former commercial fisherman Spencer Marley, of Marley Family Seaweeds, takes visitors on sea-foraging tours. While exploring the tide pools of Cayucos, guests learn everything from identifying edible marine algae to the history of Asian American seaweed harvesters in California.

Mendocino’s varied microclimates yield a wide range of wild ingredients. At properties like Inn at Newport Ranch, guests don wellies and raincoats in search of morels, porcini mushrooms, chanterelles and other wild fungi. Knowledgeable guides point out both edible and poisonous mushrooms.

The day’s bounty is celebrated through seasonal tasting menus featuring foraged mushrooms and other local ingredients. Think fermented rice and maitake mushrooms, or Stemple Creek beef tenderloin with grilled onions and seaweed.

Casey Hatfield-Chiotti is editor-in-chief of Oregon Media. A longtime travel and lifestyle journalist, she covers food, wine, hotels and outdoor adventure. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Forbes, Travel + Leisure, Sunset, Afar and other national publications.

Foraging for mushrooms on California’s Mendocino Coast with a guide offers a unique and safe perspective.

Visitors to Brasada Ranch can ride horseback through the high desert.

AAA | Via

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PHOTOS TOP LEFT TO RIGHT BY ISTOCK/GUENTERGUNI | ISTOCK/LFPUNTEL | BY ALEX PULASKI | MIDDLE LEFT TO RIGHT BY ISTOCK/GRI-SPB | BY ALEX PULASKI | ISTOCK/UWE-BERGWITZ | BOTTOM LEFT TO RIGHT BY ALEX PULASKI | ISTOCK/KJORGEN | ISTOCK/DONYANEDOMAM

DESTINATION |

THE NEW AGE OF

Exploration

Expedition cruises combine wildlife encounters, expert-guided exploration and surprising comfort in some of the world’s most extraordinary places WRITTEN BY ALEX PULASKI

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September | October 2026

| DESTINATION Lindblad Expeditions in the Galápagos aboard National Geographic Islander II

PHOTO TOP COURTESY OF LINDBLAD EXPEDITIONS | BOTTOM ISTOCK/BRUCEBLOCK

E

xplorers haven’t had it easy over the years.

Lewis and Clark endured an Oregon winter soaked to the bone, subsisting on dried salmon and wild potatoes. Naturalist Charles Darwin lived on hardtack (dried biscuits) and salted meat, and sampled tortoises, iguanas and armadillos while aboard the HMS Beagle.

Nothing like today. As we sail into unfamiliar waters aboard modern cruise ships, we recount the day’s adventures over pan-seared seabass and a glass of chardonnay. Then hit the hot tub.

Expedition cruises have never been so much fun, or so popular. Smaller, more nimble ships have expanded wildlife viewing and learning opportunities in recent years to places once considered far flung: the Galápagos, Alaska, Antarctica and beyond.

“People are really looking for experiences that feel authentic and a little out of the ordinary,” said Jennifer Kinnaman, director of travel services for AAA Oregon/Idaho.

“With expedition travel, you can hop

into a Zodiac and be right there—up close with wildlife or landing in places most people never get to see. That desire to learn something new while traveling is what’s driving the interest in expedition cruises.”

AAA | Via

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DESTINATION | IMMERSIVE TRAVEL |

A more adventurous, interactive way to explore the world, expedition travel often brings you to places that feel remote and untouched. These trips focus on nature, wildlife and culture, with expert guides leading excursions and hands-on experiences. It’s a great fit for travelers who want more than just seeing a destination—they want to truly experience it and connect with the places and communities they’re visiting.

The trend is steadily growing. According to the Cruise Lines International Association, expedition cruise bookings increased 71% between 2019 and 2023.

AN ARRAY OF OPTIONS |

In addition to National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, your local AAA travel expert can suggest several expedition options, including Hurtigruten Expeditions, Seabourn, Silversea, Viking, Celebrity, Alexander + Roberts, Antarctica with Seabourn Venture

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HX Expeditions and Tauck’s Antarctica Expedition. Each offers its own take on exploration.

“Some are known for their expertise in Antarctica, some specialize in small-ship experiences and others emphasize ultra-luxury,” said Kinnaman. “It really depends on what kind of journey a traveler is looking for.”

Many such cruises are led by specialists—naturalists, wildlife experts, photographers or environmental guides—who bring the destination to life. You might find yourself spotting the Northern Lights in Scandinavia, exploring the Azores or traveling to places like Polynesia and beyond.

Hubbard Glacier, Alaska, with Seabourn Venture

| DESTINATION

PHOTOS BOTH PAGES COURTESY OF SEABOURN

Prince Christian Sound, Greenland, with Seabourn Venture

With so many options, Kinnaman encourages working with trained AAA travel agents who have firsthand experience with many of the destinations and travel partners they recommend.

“At AAA, we’re really focused on getting to know our travelers,” she said.

“Once we understand what someone is looking for, we can guide them to the expedition experience that’s truly the right fit.”

A FIRST-HAND EXPEDITION | I set out this February on a weeklong Ecuadorian expedition with my wife, Mica, which included five nights exploring the Galápagos Islands.

We sailed aboard the 48-passenger Islander II, operated by National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions.

Panorama Suite aboard Seabourn Venture

AAA | Via

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DESTINATION | Cierva Cove, Antarctica

Scrolling through the images back home, I am thankful for the ability to document experiences with digital photography. Our images constitute a catalog of new experiences—an indelible map of memories made on our first expedition to the equator, capturing the brilliant reds of male frigate birds, near-neon blues of boobies’ webbed feet, pink flamingos craning their necks for an underwater meal.

Similar to other small-ship expeditions we’ve experienced, the Islander II cruise to the Galápagos excelled in offering choices to suit varying interests.

Every evening before dinner, Expedition Leader Juan Carlos Avila outlined the following day’s island and activities such as nature walks, snorkeling or Zodiac excursions. A glass-bottom boat allowed non-snorkelers to also see marine life.

The onboard crew included a team of naturalists with longtime ties to the islands, made famous by Darwin’s 1835 visit. Because of their extensive knowledge, the naturalists were able to share insights on photography, geology, history, ecology and wildlife.

On a morning walk on North Seymour Island, naturalist Wilson Lopez stopped to scratch the bark of a Palo Santo tree, releasing a fragrant oil. He explained that the tree is vital to the islands’ birds, which use it for nesting and roosting—and they also consume the seeds and fruit.

As we wandered, we learned and saw much more. On land, giant tortoises lumbered along grassy hillsides, and sea lions lovingly nursed their pups. Seabirds built nests and courted mates, preening and calling.

“Something is in the air—you feel it?” Lopez asked. “It is love, I think.”

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September | October 2026

We watched a pair of Galápagos penguins gingerly take to the water. We boated past green sea turtles mating and tracked marine iguanas swimming to shore.

Fascinated, we took endless photos of a Galápagos hawk making a meal of an iguana.

Heading below the ocean’s surface, we snorkeled past neon blue parrotfish, a guineafowl puffer and the occasional blacktip reef shark or golden ray.

Aboard the well-appointed ship, we supped, forged new friendships, relaxed and learned lessons about iPhone phototaking and Darwin himself. In a compelling presentation about Darwin’s work, naturalist Dennis Ballesteros described the Englishman as inspiring his own love for science and nature.

As Ballesteros neared the presentation’s end, nature itself interrupted.

“Are those dolphins?” a guest asked.

But the guest wasn’t looking at the screen—he was pointing through a window overlooking the ocean. Sure enough, common dolphins by the hundreds were leaping from the water, putting on an indescribable show.

I stepped outside to the railing, momentarily abandoning Darwin. These are the moments that every explorer, even us less intrepid ones, tattoos to memory.

Alex Pulaski is a freelance travel writer and former travel editor at The Oregonian. He writes for The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times and other publications across the country.

PLAN A TRIP

Travel experts at AAA can help you plan your expedition cruise, and include AAA member discounts. Contact your local AAA Travel Agent today at AAA.com/locations.

PHOTO TOP LEFT COURTESY OF HX | RIGHT ISTCOK/GERALDCORSI

Petermann Island, Antarctica, with HX Expeditions

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The dramatic lava formations of Craters of the Moon National Monument & Preserve tell the story of Central Idaho’s volcanic history. Visitors can hike through otherworldly lava fields and even descend into caves carved by rivers of molten rock.

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September | October 2026

PHOTO COURTESY OF VISIT SOUTH IDAHO

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