Travel, Taste and Tour

S p e c i a l Fe a t u r e ! Tra v el t h e S t a t e s : F l o r i d a & No r t h C a r o l i n a -FALL

2020

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outside Live it Up

5Road

Stunning Fall Foliage

PLUS

TOUR AMERICA Get Cozy in these Hometowns

Yosemite National Park, CA

SPEND YOUR

FALL SEASON IN

New Zealand's SPRING

FALL 2020 DISPLAY UNTIL 12/21/2020

letter from the editor In every season, throughout the hustle and bustle of our daily routines, our children, our jobs, and our own personal chaos, we still make time for special holidays, birthdays, and events.

It is what we do to keep family units close, to maintain the longest and most precious of friendships, and to make room for new people that come into our lives. We are social creatures by nature, with an uncanny ability to adapt, learn, and grow as we go.

However, not every season will be as we hoped.

Not every event will go as planned. Nothing is genuinely promised. In the wake of the global pandemic of 2020, we were harshly reminded of these truths. As for me, I’ve taken the time out in quarantine to really reflect on my go-go-go attitude. There never seemed to be enough time to get everything done that I wanted to do, and for every one thing that I checked off my list, another three were added. Every time I managed to plan and execute a vacation, I somehow found myself in a beautiful location, a drink in hand and a smile on my face, still unable to fully embrace and enjoy my time off. That never-ending to-do list is always on my mind, waiting for me each day as I wake up and start the coffee.

Upon reflection of this behavior, I felt I took each free moment for granted. I had then realized that even through a scary and trying time for America (and the world!) there was a blessing. A blessing of time. Free time was now abundant, as the world seemed to come to a screeching halt, and doors in every city started to close. Now, being in quarantine in the comfort and safety of my own

home, and having all this extra free time, I – like many others – found myself frozen. What would I do? Would I finally get to that yard work I had been putting off for months? Would I catch up on some TV shows? How could I have complained for so long about needing extra time and then be given the opportunity to freeze my daily routines and simply not know what to do with the time now that it had arrived?

And then I understood where I had gone wrong.

I lost focus of the most important part of life: to spend time with the ones you love. I looked back on past vacations and holidays and realized, I should have taken more pictures, I should have loved on my family and friends more, I should have hugged a little longer, laughed a little harder…

So, now that we’re getting back into the swing of things, and we all want nothing more than for life to “go back to normal”, I ask you all humbly to travel. Travel far and wide. Travel without fear.

Travel to see loved ones, to be a part of holiday gatherings – travel for yourself. We have all learned that time does not stop for us; if we want a moment for ourselves, we must reach out and take it. Try new foods, make new friends, and explore new places. The only way to get out of chaos – whether it’s your own, or the world’s – is to go right on through it, together.

Stay safe and stay inspired,

Abby Therrien

Travel TAST E + TO U R

must be something in the water...

Come taste for yourself!

Home to the Mountain Brewers Fest and over 15 award-winning regional breweries and vodka distilleries.

visitidahofalls.com

table of contents

12 Travel Q&A: Staying Safe While Traveling Things are different this year. But that doesn’t mean we have to stop exploring, so long as we do it safely with everyone’s health and well-being in mind.

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18 The 10 Best Burger Joints in America

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From LoKal to Jack Brown’s and everything in between, find your next best burger joint here.

24 Discover Florida & North Carolina Take a trip to the Everglades or explore The Omni Grove Park Inn. Both states are worthy of your next vacation.

34 Spend Your Fall Season in New Zealand’s Spring Discover the land of the Lord of the Rings book series, or simply enjoy a stroll through New Zealand’s natural beauty.

40 Travel TAST E + TO U R

40 Autumn’s Top Shorelines Find your happy place with fresh seafood, soft sand, and pristine shorelines for miles.

table of contents

50 Social Media Stars Introducing our trendy top 4 social media influencers and their travels!

56 Live it Up Outside

56 50

Staying 6 feet apart has never been so easy, or more beautiful!

70 Travel the State: North Carolina

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Get to know the towns and counties of Halifax, Franklin, Duplin, Columbus, and Hendersonville.

82 5 Stunning Fall Foliage Road Trips Exploring this season’s most picturesque roads around the country.

94 Travel the State: Florida Embrace the Florida lifestyle with the cities and counties of Okeechobee, Charlotte, Franklin, and Orlando.

104 Sip & Savor

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Succulent wine pairings, must-visit distilleries, and unique beer destinations.

112 Tour America These towns are serving up homestyle hospitality guaranteed to make you feel welcome no matter where you end up on your tour.

Travel TAST E + TO U R

Travel TAST E + TO U R

EDITOR IN CHIEF Abby Therrien

STAFF WRITERS CeCe Gargiulo Jasmine Rayne

EXECUTIVE STAFF Audrey Kay | VP of Sales & Client Relations William Prevatt | VP of Marketing & Advertising CONTRIBUTORS Naples, Marco Island, The Everglades The Omni Grove Park Inn Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint

DISTRIBUTION Comag Marketing Group PUBLISHER APA Media, LLC 2701 W. Busch Blvd., Ste. 157 Tampa, FL 33618 www.traveltasteandtour.com

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T R A I L NDERSON HE VI L L E, N C

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In today’s world

, traveling is arguably essential. Travel allows us to learn, to grow together, to make memories, explore new places, and so much more. However, during this 2020 pandemic, so many of us are contemplating our next vacation with hesitant minds that hover over the pad on our laptops as we argue with ourselves about whether or not we should press the “book this flight” button. Alas, we have come to terms with what we’re all facing, and in the days and months ahead, more and more of us will choose to travel. Many of us already have.

With that being said, it is time to get back out into the world, one day off at a time, and with as many safety precautions as we can to ensure that we’re maintaining our essential health, and protecting those around us. Travelers have asked quite a few questions about how to stay safe while traveling, and we’ve provided a list of those top questions here, along with helpful answers!

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Q: What is the best way to travel these days?

Q: Do I need to have a Covid-19 test done before I travel?

A: It depends on where you are headed.

If the distance is drivable, then it is suggested that you drive your own vehicle to and from your destination. If your vehicle is not equipped for longer drives, then we suggest renting a vehicle.

This way, you come into contact with minimal amounts of people, and you can safely and comfortably travel with your own family/friends surrounding you.

Make sure you sanitize your vehicle every time you enter it and check ahead of time for parking accommodations if you’re heading to a city or somewhere that may be congested.

A: In some areas, test results are required upon entry, otherwise you may face a 14-day quarantine policy. Other areas may not require a test at all. It is suggested that you schedule a test before your trip begins, and when you get home, just to be safe. If you cannot schedule a test or choose not to, then you may face quarantine upon returning home as well, so be prepared for that. Overall, it is best to make sure that you receive test results before and after your trip.

Q: What should I bring with me to help keep me safe?

A: Bring all of the essential sanitizing items, such as a mask, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and gloves. Remain aware of your surroundings and watch how close you get to others. Maintaining a 6-foot distance and wearing a mask and gloves at all times when out in public is the best idea, even if you’re in an area where it is not required.

Tour North Carolina’s Newest Distillery Go “behind the barrel” at Weldon Mills Distillery and learn about the distilling process. Enjoy new and creative spirits on the banks of the Roanoke River including bourbon produced with North Carolina grown ingredients and America’s rst rhubarb gin.

www.weldonmills.com

www.visithalifax.com

Q: I’m nervous about traveling, what are some things I can plan that are safe to do?

A: We recommend choosing destinations that are following standard safety guidelines and maintaining clean practices. Outdoor destinations are always a good option because they naturally allow you to keep a safe distance from others. Areas where appointments are required are a good choice too, because they ensure that crowds will be kept to a minimum. Many destinations are offering a virtual travel option as well, so even if you’re not quite ready to get back on the travel horse, you can still explore new places virtually from the comfort and safety of your own home.

Q: Can I still travel if I’ve already tested positive for Covid-19?

A: Technically yes, although don’t expect to be able to go anywhere if you’re still in the quarantine phase. We recommend taking the time needed to let yourself heal and get your immune system back in tip-top shape before you venture back out into the world.

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10

Best Burger Joints in

A M E R I C A

EXPLORE OKEECHOBEE,FLORIDA

WWW.VISITOKEECHOBEECOUNTY.COM (863) 634-7482 REQUEST YOUR VISITOR GUIDE TODAY

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For the cooling days in the Alabama sun, if you're seeing friends or finishing your vacation, this next burger joint is a perfect stop to catch up. Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint

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hen the last of the late summer storms start to roll in, the coming beautiful early autumn days in the Southern U.S. are a treat to enjoy. Whether the South is home for you, or the resting stop for a much-needed vacation, these burger joints are perfect ways to escape the afternoon heat. Starting in the Southern most states, tourist Florida is known for its delicious seafood and glittering beaches. It is the natives, however, that know the best parts of this state are the hidden food gems meant just waiting to be enjoyed. One of these gems is known as the Lokal in Miami, Florida. The Lokal is known for its juicy burgers and wonderfully crisp fries — it’s the ideal setting for a family cookout when the family is away from home. Travelling upstate and skipping state lines, Georgia is also home to some incredible food escapes. Known as THAT Burger Spot! this restaurant is a treasure chest of towering burgers with a buffet of customizations.

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If you’ve ever dreamt of creating your own burger tower, look no further and mark this as a “must visit'' for the time when summer meets autumn. For the cooling days in the Alabama sun, if you're seeing friends or finishing your vacation, this next burger joint is a perfect stop to catch up.

Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint in Birmingham is a local tradition; with the laid back atmosphere and freshly made burgers it’s no wonder it’s part of one’s weekly routine. South Carolina is no stranger to amazing food with its southern charm and if you’re in search of that perfect southern night out, Big Billy’s Burger Joint in North Charleston is the answer. With the perfect prices for a vacation budget, this joint is the right place to bring family and friends for an evening delight. Just across state lines, Louisiana is also brimming with musicfilled nights, lit by laughter spilling from restaurants.

ADVENTURE DOESN’T WAIT. And neither should you. If your trip of a lifetime includes wolves, bears and bison, it’s time to visit Cody. Get a vacation guide and plan your Great American Adventure at CodyYellowstone.org or call 1-800-393-CODY.

A unique find, and Instagram worthy gem, this restaurant found in an old gas station with fair prices challenges the gourmet’s traditional aesthetic. If you don’t stop to try Cowbell in New Orleans, your southern vacation will surely be missing a highlight. While the South and its burgers are much needed shade from the water, the North Western U.S. is home to mouthwatering shelters from late summer rains and cool autumn winds. If you find yourself in Idaho, visiting The SnakeBite Restaurant in Idaho Falls is a sure cure for the poison of hunger. If you’re seeking saving from the beginnings of a hangry mindset or the stomach grumbles, their burgers are your answer. This little joint and its Snake River Burger are a perfect corner street haven for all hungry guests ready to enjoy a good meal. Oregon is a nearby destination with beautiful quiet beaches, sparkling Crater Lake, and famously delicious burgers.

A chef-run food cart with juicy traditional classicstyle burgers is the highlight of Burger Stevens.

This chef took passion for gourmet cooking and street food wonders to create this uniquely incredible burger joint — bringing Oregon a five-star burger joint on wheels. If Oregon isn’t your vacation destination for tour and taste, but Nevada is, this next joint is a must-eat location that leaves you wishing you had four stomachs.

Top right, Fiamma Burger .

Bottom right, Libery Burger.

Bottom left, Burger Stevens.

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Holsteins Burgers in Las Vegas is the answer to every foodie’s burger prayers: whether you seek thick and juicy burgers or those garnished to the hilt, Holsteins is there to provide it all. Washington State’s Fiamma Burger in Bellingham is another foodie wonderland — from their B“HAM” Burger to their N.W. Burger, you’re guaranteed to set every one of your taste buds alight. With all these North Western delights, it’s no wonder Wyoming has another joint to add to our list. Liberty Burger in Jackson brings breakfast and lunch to another level. With a breakfast burger known as “The Nooner,” brunch time now has its very own classic specialty. A vacation brunch will never be complete if you don’t add this to your Wyoming travel itinerary. While great burgers can be found all around America, if you combine any of these burger joints with your adventures and you are sure to end with a perfect menu of memories for the road back home.

- Discover Florida -

D I S C O V E R

T H E

Florida

Lifestyle

I N

NA P L E S, A N D T H E

M A R C O

E V E R G L A D E S

For those in search of fascinating areas one can visit when travelling the state of Florida, it’s important to note the beautiful locations of Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades. Each one of these destinations offers both adventurous and quaint activities for the travelers hoping to

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I S L A N D,

enjoy their time away from their usual daily routines. Naples is a stunning retreat for a family getaway, famous for its endless shopping opportunities, family attractions, and breathtaking ocean views. When it comes to keeping the children entertained when off the sandy

beaches, the Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples should be added to your list of to-dos. The children’s museum is a wonderland of STEM centered, interactive games and designs to help educate your children on the incredibly neat world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Who said learning wasn’t vacation worthy fun? Clearly, they’ve never been to a fun-filled museum like this. Exploring arts and culture in Naples is another way to ensure that after your vacation you won’t go empty handed. The United Arts Council of Collier County strives hard to keep updated information and tips for those seeking to enjoy live music, theater, visual arts, local artists, and more, be sure to visit their webpage for additional help if you’re seeking a little creativity and fun off the beach. It’s no secret Florida is also known for its underwater inhabitants and the Audubon Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary aims to provide its guests an experience of just that.

THIS IS WHAT

LOOKS LIKE.

(AND IT TASTES EVEN BETTER.) This year, you’re craving something different. And we’ve got the scenery, selection and space for you to roam free until you find what you’re looking for.

VISITGILLETTE.COM TO PLAN YOUR FOODIE ADVENTURE

While in

FLORIDA

Visit Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary located in the thick of the Western Everglades, the sanctuary provides an incredible boardwalk for family and friends to explore undeveloped, natural wonders that provide home to much of Florida’s wildlife.

Located in the thick of the Western Everglades, the sanctuary provides an incredible boardwalk for family and friends to explore undeveloped, natural wonders that provide home to much of Florida’s wildlife. Who knows, you might even be able to get a selfie or two with some of the more famous gator guests a safe distance behind you. In addition to this wildlife wonder, the Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park is home to one of the most striking stretches of beach in the world. With its seemingly untouched views of the Gulf of Mexico & cerulean blue waters, visitors will enjoy a photo-gallery worthy view the entire day. The Visit Florida website highlights activities ranging from picnics, scuba diving, collecting seashells, and kayaking as the top relaxation tips when visiting the state park.

For those seeking to travel and dine in style, the Naples Princess is a luxury yacht that will guide you around the most stunning spots that Naples and Port Royal have to offer.

Dining with the sunset at your fingertips and the sea at your feet, is the answer to any ocean lover’s vacation dreams.

Nearby to Naples and the Everglades, Marco Island is one of Florida’s most incredible treasures. As a Gulf coast divine retreat, this stretch of developed island is home to a little slice of heaven on earth.

Whether your beach-vacation wishes be filled with luxury resorts or flawless beachview picnics, Marco Island can provide every single one.

GET TO THE HEART OF IT

travelwv.com

304.264.8801

marco island “the Island offers S E S A A D C A F L

A S H N D V E N N K O R I

E L L T O U R S A N D D O L L A R S H E L L I N G T U R E S T O E N S U R E Y O U E E P A L I T T L E O F T H E D A M A G I C F O R H O M E.”

With its fairytale turquoise bays and rose-tinted sunsets, it should not come as a surprise when I say that Marco Island is known for its paintedperfect seashells. For those avid lovers of these little ocean wonders, the Island offers Seashell Tours and Sand Dollar Shelling adventures to ensure you can keep a little of the Florida magic for home. With plenty of creative opportunities peppering the island, you should check in with the Marco Island Center for the Arts during your vacation stay. Whether local artist art is top on your shopping list, or a customized Florida souvenir for a loved one back home, their website is a hubbub for art life on the Island.

Though art isn’t the only way to bring home some Florida vacation memories — snatching pictures of beautiful ocean wildlife like bottlenose dolphins and tropical fish are sure to provide memories for years to come. According to Visit Florida, Captain Ron Hagerman has been providing waverunner eco-tours of the island and its wildlife since 1988. If anyone is sure to provide a local experience of the best of Marco Island’s beauty, it's sure to be the Captain and his eco-tours. With the beach under your feet and the horizon in sight, the coastal getaways of Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades are a treasure chest of enjoyment.

- D I S C O V E R N O RT H C A R O L I NA -

Discover The Omni Grove Park Inn

he Omni Grove Park Inn is a historic resort built along the Blue Ridge Mountains, just minutes from downtown Asheville, North Carolina. Upon entrance, is the Great Hall which measures 120 feet across and features 24-foot ceilings and two gigantic 36-foot stone fireplaces. The resort’s grand lobby is famous for the elevators hidden in the chimneys of the fireplaces, which transport guests to their rooms. Originally opened in 1913, the Inn showcases a wide range of Arts and Crafts furnishings from Stickley and Roycroft throughout guest areas, guestrooms, and suites.

The original Grove Park Inn was founded by businessman Edwin Wiley Grove with the help of his son-in-law Fred Loring Seely. Completed in 1913, the Main Inn was designed after the Old Faithful Inn and the Canyon Hotel in Yellowstone National Park.

The Inn was built of granite stones mined from Sunset Mountain with the help of 400 workers, many of them Italian stonemasons, earning $1.00 a day – the best wages available. Dragging hundreds of tons of boulders up the mountainside with mules, wagons, ropes, pulleys, and a lone steam shovel, the Inn was completed in less than 12 months.

When the 150-room hotel opened in the summer of 1913, newspapers across the country christened it “the finest resort hotel in the world.” The Grove Park Inn was listed on National Register of Historic Places in 1973 and is a member of the Historic Hotels of America.

Ten presidents have stayed here including President Barack Obama as well as celebrities from diverse fields: William Jennings Bryan, Jerry Seinfeld, Jennifer Lopez, John Grisham, Harry Houdini, Michael Jordan and others, many of whose photos grace hallways in the inn. Rooms and public areas are outfitted in Arts and Craft style furniture well suited for the Inn’s elegant but rustic décor.

Grove's original vision for the Inn as a place of rest and comfort continues to evolve to serve a modern audience.

Today, the Inn remains one of America’s most beloved destinations and has expanded to a multi-faceted resort with 513 rooms in historic and contemporary wings of the property, a world-class Spa, 18-hole golf course and more.

THE SPA The subterranean Spa and even the pathways leading to it are an intriguing experience with cavernous rock walls, arches and tunnels. Once inside, the Spa has 20 water features including waterfalls, several pools of differing temperatures—some with minerals and at least one with an underwater music. Overhead, 6,500 fiber optic lights create the impression of twinkling stars at night. The Spa includes a frigid plunge tank, eucalyptus-infused steam room, sauna as well as an outdoor whirlpool.

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Spa services book 6-8 weeks in advance. Those who book Spa appointments also receive complementary day-long access to the indoor and outdoor Spa pools and facilities (sauna, steam room, showers, etc.). A limited number of one-day passes are available for hotel guests (sold daily) and they do sell out sometimes based on availability.

Asheville, NC is recognized as having one of the strongest most innovative culinary scenes in the country.

GOLF Framed by the splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the historic Grove Park Inn Golf Club celebrates the spirit of mountain golf. Designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1926, the 6,055-yard, par-70 course is contoured out of the rolling landscape with tree-lined fairways, challenging bunkers and receptive bent greens. And, the elevated tee boxes assure that you get amazing views with each drive.

The course is considered one of the top golf courses in North Carolina and in 2015 the course was recognized by Golfweek as one of the “Best Resort Courses” and the “Best: State-by-State Courses You Can Play” as well as by Golf.com as one of the “Premier Golf Resorts”. It is also among the top ten courses 100 years or older according to Golf Digest, though it certainly doesn’t show its age. Masterfully restored in 2001, it reflects the glory and spirit of Donald Ross’ original design.

DINING Asheville, NC is recognized as having one of the strongest most innovative culinary scenes in the country. At The Omni Grove Park Inn you will find four of the finest, locally sourced restaurants in town.

• Sunset Terrace features the finest hand cut steaks, premiere chops and fresh seafood. Partnering with local farmers, our chefs and staff are committed to providing you with a truly memorable dining experience as you look out over the mountains. The Sunset Terrace is the iconic spot for dinner in Asheville and is a winner of the 2014 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Sunset Terrace is a covered al fresco dining option and is open March through November and as weather permits in the colder months.

• EDISON, craft ales + kitchen is an inventive bar and restaurant that brings together the food culture and local flavors of Asheville, with expansive indoor and outdoor seating and spectacular views of the Mountains. Named for frequent historical visits from Thomas Edison and his "Vagabonds" (Edison, Harvey Firestone and Henry Ford), EDISON serves NC craft beers, small batch bourbons, handcrafted cocktails, and regionally inspired food in a contemporary, fun, and artistic setting.

• Blue Ridge offers celebrated Blue Ridge Artisanal cuisine now featuring a Chef-inspired dine-in experience with attendant service at each food station, while overlooking the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Two massive rooms are filled with amazing breakfast options daily. And don’t miss the awardwinning themed dinners with Friday night Seafood and Saturday night Prime Rib. It’s the perfect way to end any week.

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YO UR

U.S .

AU T U M N

S P E N T

AS

A

NE W ZE ALA ND

spring

Spending your U.S. autumn in New Zealand’s spring is most definitely the best way for building your winter survival kit.

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s the forests of the U.S. turn from emerald to crimson in September, New Zealand finds it is winter lands covered with early Spring blooms. If you’re seeking a bloom-filled vacation before winter’s chill begins settling in, it’s time to book your New Zealand getaway. Home to views that look like carved masterpieces and famous movie set landscapes, this country has a little adventure for everyone who visits. Before the adventure starts, however, it’s important to have the right attire for your travel needs. According to www.newzealand.com’s “Discover Spring in New Zealand,” the temperatures range from a brisk 60 degrees Fahrenheit to a sunny 66 degrees, with the occasional spring showers peppering the land. To make the most of your days and any unexpected changes in weather, be sure to keep a light sweater and umbrella in your travelling rucksack as back up. Be sure to pack your power adapters and voltage converter for all your charging needs — for New Zealand, www.asherfergusson.com offers 2020 updated insights and tips for your electronics checklist before travelling so you can travel electronic worry-free during your time abroad. With those quick recommendations in mind, it’s time to explore what a spring in New Zealand has to offer for its guests.

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Top on the list for any Lord of the Rings fans out there, is spending a day wandering the breathtaking and fantastical set of the film The Hobbit.

Straight out of the movie scenes, the Hobbiton Movie Set Tours company offers an incredible opportunity to jump right into your favorite films.

During the Springtime, the set is teeming with darling bluebells and yellow tulips, bringing to life the green grassy meadows your favorite hobbit enjoys. Similar to this fan-filled escape, New Zealand is known by wine lovers for its incredible “Wine Trail Itinerary.” Hawke’s Bay is the first step in this wine-dyed adventure map and a leading producer for some of the world’s best red wines ranging from a delicious cabernet sauvignon to your classic chardonnays. The springtime is the ideal season to enjoy crisp winds as for five days you cycle to a new winery and enjoy the best New Zealand red wine has to offer.

Thankfully, www.newzealand.com offers a full breakdown of the Wine Trail Itinerary so you can plan this taste touring according to your unique traveler needs.

If wine isn’t on your list of travel desires but hidden wonders and the outdoors is, it’s the perfect time to visit the spring-time beauty of Whanganui. Whanganui is famous for being one of the first cities to find home in New Zealand, and with the jaw-dropping Whanganui River like a silver ribbon between the land, it’s no wonder how this area became home for so many. Before the waters warm and the summer heat beams down, tourists visiting the area during this time can enjoy leisurely canoe trips down it’s scenic wonders and a jet boat visit to the national park’s hidden mystery. One of the most fascinating historical treasures that New Zealand has to offer can be found in Whanganui’s National Park. Known as “The Bridge to Nowhere,” this seemingly out of place concrete bridge looks as though it simply was dropped in the heart of a beautiful lush forest — creating an alluring sight to behold for everyone. For those hoping to view more of the Springtime blooms and botanical beauty of New Zealand, Hamilton Gardens in Waikato is a stunningly colorful retreat.

Left, Hobbiton Movie Set Tour.

Bottom, People enjoying at Italian Renaissance Garden in Hamilton Gardens, New Zealand.

With a burst of brilliant reds, honeyed oranges, and warm pinks the Hamilton Gardens provides a perfect photo stop to document your travel memories while enjoying a peaceful afternoon tea. Not only does Hamilton have its stunning gardens, tourists can find themselves adventuring glow worm caves, black sand beaches, and dining like the Hobbits, making this an absolute must for creating unforgettable family memories.

For our travelers hoping for a bit of shopping, cultural history, and New Zealand’s specialty treasures, the West Coast is the place to be.

The West Coast is a cultural and artistic masterpiece, teeming with life and the traditions of Maori culture, legends, and art.

This a must-visit for every traveler to New Zealand, a place where art and culture dance together to provide a beautiful atmosphere for learning and experience. For unique souvenir and shopping finds, the West Coast is the place to shop if you’re looking for brilliant jade or remedies and skin care from local honeybees. An adorable local store to keep in mind is called the Junction Cafe Bee Centre, a wonderful & quaint provider for all your natural honeybee product dreams — What better time to visit than when the bees are busy at work? Spending your U.S. autumn in New Zealand’s spring is most definitely the best way for building your winter survival kit, bringing back some sunlight and warmth to fend off the coming snow-made days.

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SH OR E AUTUMN’S TOP

ENJOY THE SALTY AIR, SOFT SAND, AND MILES OF PRISTINE SHORELINE IN THESE BEAUTIFUL OASES, RIGHT HERE IN THE U.S.

Photo by Leslie Paquiot. PGEB Beach Family Don Pedro.

LINES

- B AY A R E A H O U S T O N , T X -

O U R

B A Y C A T I O N S

A R E

B E T T E R !

Top left, Founders SquareShop.

Bottom left, Sam’s Boat.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or an unforgettable family vacation, Bay Area Houston is an ideal destination for your next Baycation. This waterside gem is just minutes away from some of Texas’s greatest attractions and most iconic history.

Bay Area Houston is made up of the communities of Kemah, League City, Nassau Bay and Seabrook – only 30 minutes from downtown Houston or the beaches of Galveston Island.

Located equally between the bayous of Houston and the open Gulf waters of the Galveston, Bay Area Houston enjoys the cool breezes and beautiful sunsets that accompany a lifestyle on the south side of Clear Lake. With Clear Creek, Clear Lake, and Galveston Bay at its doorstep, this fast-growing region has activities for thrill seekers and sun seekers, alike.

The calm water surrounded by residential and commercial development has contributed to the area having one of the largest concentrations of recreational boats and marinas in the United States. The area is also home to the annual Concours d’Elegance Keels & Wheels classic car and wooden boat show (May), and the Texas Outlaw Challenge (June).

Visit the Kemah Boardwalk - home to fabulous waterfront restaurants, amusements, charming retail stores, festivals and seaside shows every day of the year.

Space Center Houston’s space and science exploration learning center has more than 400 things to see and do. Enjoy the galleries, explore the shuttle replica Independence, explore the NASA Johnson Space Center, take a tram tour, discover Mission Mars and tons more.

Visit our website: www.visitbayareahouston.com for a complete listing of events and attractions.

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Waves & Water Sports

Visit BayAreaHouston.com

OUR Kemah | League City | Nassau Bay | Seabrook

- CADIZ-TRIGG, KY -

Cadiz

K E N T U C K Y

With fewer than 3,000 residents, Cadiz, Kentucky, is a small town with a big heart. Surrounded by rolling farmland in bucolic Trigg County, visitors come to Cadiz for the myriad of outdoor activities, such as world-class fishing on Lake Barkley, mountain biking the Canal Loop Trail, and hunting wild game in the backcountry. History buffs can get a taste of what it was like to live on a mid-19th century farmstead by visiting the Homeplace 1850s Working Farm, where even the heirloom vegetable varieties featured in the garden beds are authentic. Bison and elk roam the Elk and Bison Prairie, and horseback riding enthusiasts can enjoy trail rides through some of Kentucky's most gorgeous scenery at Wrangler's Campground. The historic main street features authentic antique shopping, top-rated regional barbecue, Victorian homes, and historic brick buildings. Here's what else is waiting for you in beautiful Cadiz.

The Cadiz Community Arts Center The Cadiz Community Arts Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing a variety of forms of quality art to community residents and visitors. It features exhibits by local, regional, national, and worldwide artists as well as an annual theatrical production. The arts center manages the Janice Mason Art Museum, hosts a variety of classes, and hosts community events such as the Festival of Trees and an ongoing book club.

Foodies love Trigg County The Trigg County Farmers Market operates May through October on Wednesdays and Saturdays and features fresh local fair, antiques, and arts-and-crafts on Main Street in Cadiz. One wouldn’t expect the authentic Mexican and gourmet choices in such a small town.

However, many locals frequent The Cadiz Restaurant and Taste of The South, restaurants where you can find an impressive ribeye that rivals others’ for a fraction of what one would typically expect to pay. And of course, Cadiz wouldn’t be the Southern Charm small town it is without its own fried chicken options. The independent restaurants fry up some of the best, crispy and seasoned chicken that keeps visitors reaching for just one more leg.

HUN T I N GTON BE A C H , South Carolina

Picture the sun as it sets over calm ocean waters, a breeze that softly grazes your skin, and the sound of chirping birds in the distance. This beautiful stretch of beach within Huntington Beach State Park has all of that in the miles of soft, supple sand, with a wide variety of birds to watch and a peace that is unparalleled. Huntington Beach is, in fact, quite well-known for its many species of birds that flock here; birdwatchers have been frequenting this beach for years!

The weather and scenery only get better in the fall season. Enjoy a comforting breeze, less crowds, and tranquil walk along the pristine shoreline. There’s nothing more satisfying than finding quiet moments for yourself on the edge of the ocean, and Huntington Beach will give you that exact opportunity without flaw. The nearby education center has plenty to explore as well, including live alligators!

ENJOY A COMFORTING BREEZE, LESS CROWDS, AND TRANQUIL WALK ALONG THE PRISTINE SHORELINE. Huntington Beach is also dog friendly, so if you’re bringing your pup along for the ride, they’re welcome to get out and soak up the autumn sun as well.

Fish, swim, take a leisurely stroll and look for some cool seashells, or have a picnic with your family by the sea. Chances are, you will also be able to catch a glimpse of wildlife other than birds, such as marine life within the education center, and even turtles on the shoreline.

The options are endless, and the weather is gorgeous. Many stunning resorts dot the area, including the Wild Dunes Resort, which has a golf course that boasts spectacular views.

THE OPTIONS ARE ENDLESS, AND THE WEATHER IS GORGEOUS. Whether you’re looking for a simple vacation or something more lavish, you are sure to find it in Huntington Beach. Explore the quaint towns, the delicious restaurants that offer up fresh seafood, and so much more, all while visiting during arguably the best weather of the year.

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- SACHUEST BEACH, RI -

Sachuest Beach RHODE ISLAND

Located in Newport, this quaint little beach packs a punch for surfers. If you surf, or even just admire the water sport, you should head here for the waves. The swells pick up in autumn due to hurricane season and the low pressure drops, so be ready to catch some great waves. The water is also extremely clean and free of pests, so you can expect a beautiful beach upon your arrival. Surfboard rentals are available, and lessons are even offered here.

You may hear the locals refer to this beach as Second Beach, but it is first-class for any beach lover. The scenery alone is well worth the trip. Explore the rocky shoreline and the beautiful dunes as you take in all this mile-long beach has to offer. The shallows stretch far out into the ocean, so you can walk on flat ground into the sea for a while, which makes for an amazing experience that not every beach can offer. Changing stations and picnic areas are also open for visitors to enjoy, so feel free to sit down with the family after making a few splashes in the water.

Left, Small Castle Hill Lighthouse sits on the rocky coastline of Newport, Rhode Island

the sun and sand

When you’ve had your fill of

you’ll undoubtedly be hungry. Let the real fun begin! Sample the many varieties of all your New England classic seafood favorites. Don’t forget the fish and chips, lobster rolls, and a good, hearty bowl of New England Style Clam Chowder. The cooler winds of autumn will accent the warm bowl packed with fresh clams and soft potatoes, and you will be feeling the ultimate satisfaction of comfort food in no time.

Many authentic restaurants line the streets a short distance from the beach, so it won’t be hard to find the meal that you’ve been searching for.

Stop in at a little bed and breakfast for some R & R. After you’ve long washed off the sand from Sachuest Beach, you will still be feeling the warm fuzzies from all the amazing memories you made while there.

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Lola Hubner Sydney, Australia

Born and raised in Sydney, Lola has always appreciated the beauty of the world, and loves to travel to new destinations. She specializes in the travel niche, where she adores documenting her global adventures on Instagram and writing detailed travel blogs about her trips. In order to pursue her passion for travel and photography, Lola left her 9 to 5 job in January of 2018 and began documenting her travels full time. Through her social media posts, she hopes to inspire others to chase their passions, no matter what they may be.

Lola is quite shy and a bit of an introvert, but travel has taught her to be more open and talk to the locals and other travelers. Some of her best friends today are ones that she has met while traveling. “I encourage everyone to explore more of the beautiful world we live in,” says Lola.

Cherrie Lynn Almonte Manila, Philippines

Cherrie, or “CherrieLynn” as she is known on Instagram, is a travel and lifestyle blogger who began her social media career two and a half years ago. She started posting about her travels with her husband which took off (no pun intended) and landed her paid travel and photography jobs. Until now, she continues to share her travels to inspire others. Cherrie loves to be able to help travelers plan their trips by giving tips and how-to’s. When she is not traveling, she works in a Cancer Center in Palo Alto as a Registered Nurse. Cherrie currently resides in San Jose, California.

Mark Schoenmakers & Judith Dollevoet The Netherlands

Mark and Judith are a travel couple from the Netherlands who travel the world full time. The couple started out on Instagram five years ago. Two years ago they took a leap of faith and both quit their corporate jobs to chase after their travel dreams. Now they are professional travel photographers, videographers, content creators and bloggers who take pride in sharing their passion for this beautiful planet with their followers. Mark and Judith post a mix of photos regarding luxury and sustainable travel with a focus on nature instead of cities.

Both Mark and Judith are firm believers in sustainable travel. “We try to do our part by raising awareness and limiting our footprint as much as possible. We are proud to say we only work with brands we love and support!” say Mark and Judith.

Some of their most favorite places to photograph include Kawah Ijen, Java, Indonesia; Sumba, Indonesia; and Petra, Jordan. Kawah Ijen is the most toxic volcano in the world. There is a sulfur lake in the volcano. Sumba is one of those hidden gems in Indonesia. During the day, the beach is fenced in and off-limits to the wild horses of Sumba. Once a day, the gates are opened for them to play on the beach and in the water. “Their joy is such a beauty” says Mark and Judith.

Petra, Jordan has inspired the couple ever since they first watched the movie Indiana Jones. They both recount that being there and seeing the City of Mysteries with their own eyes is something magical.

Follow Mark & Judith!

Instagram: @travelmonster.nl | @judith_dollevoet Blog: www.travelmonster.nl

Laura Alho Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Laura Alho is a Finnish travel writer and photographer based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. She is also known as “Blue Abaya,” and in some circles as the “Viking in Arabia” due to her Scandinavian origins.

She began writing the “Blue Abaya” blog in 2010. The name of the blog refers to the blue color of Finnish skies and flag, and the Abaya, the cultural norm of dress for women in Saudi Arabia. Blue Abaya became the first travel blog about Saudi tourism, as there was little to no information available about traveling to the kingdom and she wanted to share her experiences of exploring all corners of the kingdom as a female traveler. What Laura loves most about exploring the kingdom is the feeling she gets like she’s the first person who went there. You can have a whole island to yourself, and not see other people for days. Blue Abaya followers are mainly expatriates living in the kingdom, and Saudis who are interested in exploring their own country more. Travelers from all over the world with interest to explore the magical kingdom of Saudi Arabia are welcome to reach out to the Blue Abaya social media pages and blogs for travel inspiration and advice.

Follow Laura!

Instagram: @blueabaya Twitter: @blueabaya TikTok: @blueabaya

Facebook: blue abaya blog www.blueabaya.com

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Live it Up

outside WHAT BETTER WAY IS THERE TO PRACTICE SOCIAL DISTANCING THAN BY ENTERING THE WIDE-OPEN SPACES OF AMERICA’S OUTDOOR WILDERNESS. FROM HIKING TRAILS TO PARKS, ENJOY THE FRESH AIR AND NATURAL WONDERS OF THE COUNTRY.

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GILLETTE, WY -

expect the unexpected Travel to the edge of the West,

When you travel to the edge of the West, you expect the unexpected.

During your trip, try Gillette, the Energy Capital of the Nation, where the possibilities are as wide open as the skies. Adventure here for a safe experience that will last longer than any socially distant season of your life. In this wild country, we engrain the natural paradise of Wyoming with our own uncommon flavor for a surprisingly authentic experience.

Gillette is becoming a foodie frontier and one of the premiere destinations for the pickiest palates. Don’t believe us?

Here’s a sampler platter: wood-fired pizzas with raspberry jalapeño compote and ricotta cheese, bison steak raised right here in Wright, the region’s largest selection of fine wines or mead sipped straight from a horn. Our mines power the country but our local chefs and restauranteurs are what fuel our community. This is where you come to get a taste of the West, and the flavor of Gillette is the very best.

Expect cuisine as spectacular as the sites during your vacation with local options including melt-in-your-mouth filets from the Prime Rib Restaurant and Wine Cellar, Pizza Carrello’s wood-fired pizza or a fresh spin on South American chicken dishes at The Coop. Wash it all down with the national award-winning Locomotive Brown Ale from Gillette Brewing Company and Gone Postal Pizzeria, or drink like the gods at Big Lost Meadery and Brewery.

While our natural resources may have landed us the “Energy Capital of the Nation” designation, this is how we’re really powered.

Experience the flavor of Gillette with highquality ingredients prepared by local culinary artists. With menus like these, plan to share at least a few meals with us.

Just an hour’s drive from Devils Tower National Monument, Gillette is close to scenery with its famed rolling hills and open plains. Pronghorn and big game hunting across Campbell County is some of the nation’s best, and you can scout the area on one our Wildlife Loop Tours. There aren’t many ways to get more in touch with nature than touring our coal mines to learn about reclamation processes. Just outside city limits, the town of Wright is home to the Durham Bison Ranch where you’ll find that small towns are flourishing and remain a great place to visit. Your journey out West is about exploration and discovery, so if you stick to the well-traveled paths, you’ll miss much of the adventure.

For entertainment, the CAM-PLEX MultiEvent Facilities venue hosts everything from Broadway productions to PRCA rodeos.

Outside, our pronghorn antelope hunting is some of the country’s best. We’ll show you around with our historic downtown, buffalo ranch, museum and ranch tours. Our calendar is regularly being updated according to what’s safe and available, so check back often.

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill energy town.

Sure, we’re good at mining, but there is so much more happening in our quaint Wyoming town that you have to see to believe. Whether Campbell County is a stop along the way of your dream Western vacation that includes Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Devils Tower National Monument and Yellowstone National Park, or it’s your weekend getaway destination, we can’t wait to welcome you.

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- C O DY Y E L L O W S T O N E -

Here, the west isn’t just a direction

Top right, Buffalo Bill Center of the West Top left, Holy City rock formation

I T ’S O U R H E R I TAG E A N D O U R S O U L .

Its something you can feel as soon as you get to Cody, Wyoming.

Cody’s been the home base for epic adventures for over a century. Where explorers, trailblazers, outlaws and natives once walked our streets after long days of adventure, you’ll now see mountain bikers, kayakers, photographers, historians and hikers strolling through. That’s because not only is the area abundant with beautiful mountains and rivers, but its also nestled next to one of the most scenic places on Earth, Yellowstone National Park.

It’s historical and easy to imagine what it was like decades and centuries ago. The scenery hardly changes, and geology and wildlife still put on a classic show.

The Great American Adventure awaits travelers, and they need to look no further than Cody Yellowstone.

Founded in 1896 by the most authentic representative of the Old West – Colonel William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody – the town of Cody lies about 20 miles east of the Shoshone National Forest, the country’s first national forest, and 52 miles east of the eastern entrance to the world’s first national park, Yellowstone. Nestled at the base of the Wyoming Rocky Mountains, Cody blends the old with the new without sacrificing any of its truly Western character.

What is there to do in Cody Yellowstone? Here are a few ideas:

Visit the Buffalo Bill Center of the West (BBCW). Widely regarded as America’s finest western museum, this acclaimed affiliate of the Smithsonian features five separate museums under one roof. The Whitney Art Museum presents an outstanding collection of masterworks of the American West, including original paintings, sculptures and prints of the West from the early 19th century to present day. The Cody Firearms Museum houses the world’s largest and most important assemblage of American arms, as well as European arms dating back to the 16th century. The Plains Indian Museum ranks as one of the nation’s finest interpretations of the American Indian civilization. The Buffalo Bill Museum contains a wealth of material relating to the life of Buffalo Bill Cody, celebrating his varied careers as Pony Express rider, frontiersman, scout, buffalo hunter, rancher, creator and star of the first Wild West Show.

The fifth museum, the Draper Natural History Museum is a dynamic state-of-the-art, userfriendly exploration of relationships between humans and nature in the Greater Yellowstone area.

Check out the “Hotel in the Rockies.” Another authentic Cody landmark is the Irma Hotel, built in 1902 to accommodate hunters, businessmen and travelers on their way to Yellowstone. It was named after Buffalo Bill’s youngest daughter Irma. Today, it remains the gathering place of tourists and townspeople, and during summer is the place to watch a reenactment of an Old West gunfight.

Listen to Dan Miller’s Cowboy Music Revue. Hailing from Nashville, singer Dan Miller and his Empty Saddles Band entertain crowds with cowboy songs, poetry and jokes. Presented six nights a week during the summer, the show includes a variety of Western music, from cowboy ballads to love songs.

Go to the rodeo. Cody is “the Rodeo Capital of the World” with the Cody Nite Rodeo which is the only rodeo in the country that runs every night June through August. Contestants from across the country come to compete. It is true family entertainment at its best.

Garner a different perspective of WWII. Heart Mountain Interpretive Center tells the story of how and why thousands of Japanese-Americans lived in internment camps during World War II. This powerful, award-winning museum is situated at the site of the Heart Mountain Internment Camp and is designed to resemble the typical barracks-style accommodations that housed its 14,000 internees. The center depicts how families lived in poorly lit small rooms, slept on cots and endured a harsh climate and lack of privacy. There are also displays highlighting poignant stories of friendship, endurance and patriotism.

Keep your eyes peeled. Set against the beautiful backdrop of Yellowstone National Park and the Absaroka and Beartooth Mountains, Cody is the doorstep to some of the nation’s most scenic country. From awe-inspiring wonders like the Old Faithful Geyser and Mammoth Hot Springs in Yellowstone to the lofty peaks, emerald valleys and sparkling lakes of the Beartooth Mountains. West of Cody, the East Yellowstone Valley is home to extraordinary wildlife. A sharp eye might spot bison, elk, grizzly bear, bighorn sheep, moose, or deer feeding along the banks of the streams, on grassy benchlands, or amidst steep mountain cliffs.

Stop at Buffalo Bill’s hunting lodge. Buffalo Bill brought his hunting pals – including Theodore Roosevelt and the Prince of Monaco – to his rustic lodge just outside of the East entrance to Yellowstone National Park. Cody was nicknamed “Long Hair” by American Indians in the region, which in their tongue was pronounced “Pahaska,” and he named the lodge Pahaska Tepee as a result.

See where Butch Cassidy slept. Old Trail Town & Museum of the West was created with authentic frontier buildings that were collected from an 80-miles radius of Cody. Some of these historically documented buildings include the cabin used by Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid and their Hole-in-the-Wall Gang. Among the many buildings is Curley’s Cabin, General Custer’s Crow Indian scout that survived the Battle of the Little Big Horn. One of the town’s six gravesites belongs to Jeremiah “Liver Eating” Johnston – portrayed by actor Robert Redford in the 1972 film.

Get out. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a myriad of activities here including horseback riding, hiking, biking, fishing, rock climbing, kayaking, river float trips, golfing and camping.

Rough it. Or not. Modern accommodations such as locally owned and chain hotels, bed and breakfast providers, guest houses, cabins, campground and RV parks and guest and dude ranches cater to thousands of visitors each year. Fine restaurants, unique western clothing boutiques, and art and furniture galleries entice from all over the world.

With the perfect blend of western history and outdoor activities, there’s no doubt that Cody is home to the Great American Adventure.

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- C A R B O N C O U N T Y, W Y -

Comediscover the Western frontier and “Get Your West On.”

Whether you are here to explore Carbon County’s rich history full of colorful characters and infamous outlaws,

To help make the most of your time here, we have included multi-day itineraries that will allow you to soak in mineral hot springs, visit museums and historic sites, fish, golf, hike, take scenic drives, see wildlife and more. Come to Carbon County and leave the crowds behind.

Historically, Carbon County has been traversed by the Overland Trail, Oregon Trail, Mormon Trail, and both the original route of the Union Pacific Railroad and the Lincoln Highway.

Interstate 80 is now the trail of choice for most crystal clear rivers, natural hot springs, travelers through the county, although several mountain trails for hiking or biking, forests scenic back roads and byways offer pleasant teeming with wildlife, pristine alpine alternatives. lakes, small town western culture, local events and museums - we're glad you've If you love a good road trip, Carbon County has decide to come explore Carbon County. some of the most beautiful, jaw-dropping drives that will have you constantly looking for places Whether you’re ATVing, cycling, to pull over to take more photos. So, fill up your climbing, hiking, horseback riding, gas tank and get your camera ready, here are nordic skiing, snowmobiling, our favorite scenic drives with “must see” stops. snowshoeing or taking a drive along our scenic byways, we are sure you will Experience genuine western hospitality, ride appreciate the serene mountains, fertile horses, and enjoy family-style dining and river valleys, and the exotic high desert sporting opportunities at ranch getaways in you’ll understand why everyone who has Carbon County. From luxury to laid-back, the discovered Carbon County as their guest ranches featured here are the perfect personal getaway agrees that it is place to host corporate retreats, enjoy family Wyoming’s best kept secret. reunions, celebrate weddings, or simply unwind.

Recreation in southern Wyoming is unparalleled. Our wide-open spaces Wyoming’s Carbon County has it all. Nowhere coupled with low population makes for else will you find such a diversity of landscapes some of the best recreational and wide-open spaces. Come explore pristine opportunities to be found. If you love the mountains, beautiful deserts, rivers teeming with great outdoors, Carbon County is the “blue ribbon” trout, mineral hot springs pools, place to be. and trails that straddle the Continental Divide.

With 10 museums and numerous historic sites, Carbon County is 7,897 square miles three golf courses, abundant wildlife, dazzling from the mountains to the deserts. It is sunsets, and every authentic Western adventure known for its rich natural resources, you can imagine. gorgeous mountains, scenic vistas and pristine rivers and streams. There is a lot From live musical performances and art festivals of ground to cover to take advantage of to skijoring competitions and brewfests, there is all the exciting and authentic experiences something for everyone in Carbon County. For here.Plan to spend at least five days in more details about annual and upcoming Wyoming’s Carbon County, even longer events, visit wyomingcarboncounty.com “Get if you can!

Your West On.”

- C O L D WAT E R C O U N T R Y, M I -

MAKE

MEMORIES I N M I C H I G A N ’ S C O L D WAT E R C O U N T RY T H I S FA L L

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tep back to a time when life was a slower pace, things less complicated and find yourself in a place that is naturally social and naturally distanced. Connect and enjoy times with you loved ones while making memories as you discover the must-see and do adventures in Michigan’s Coldwater Country.

Located in south-central Michigan along the US-12 Heritage Route, halfway between Chicago and Detroit, the quaint communities of Coldwater, Bronson, Quincy, and Union City are brimming with outdoor recreation, unique attractions, stunning architecture, quaint downtowns and a host of family fun entertainment options.

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WHILE TRAVELING MAY LOOK, AND FEEL, A BIT DIFFERENT THAN THE PAST KNOW THAT SAFETY, SANITATION, AND SOCIAL DISTANCING IS A PRIORITY TO KEEP OUR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS SAFE.

Home to more than 100 lakes, it’s easy to spend the entire day on the water. One of the unique experiences in the area is the ability to travel from one lake to another through the chain of lakes.

Coldwater Country is home to not only one chain of lakes but two - North Chain of Lakes and South Chain of Lakes. Reel in the catch of the day, enjoy a leisurely pontoon ride, or kayak the Union City Heritage Water Trail, just one of nine water trails in Michigan. Make sure to download the free Coldwater Country app at Map-n-Tour to have area maps available at your fingertips.

Kids and kids at heart will love the area with the abundance of fun! From laser tag and virtual reality, to go-carts and mini-golf at the Adventure Zone, to a ride on the rails of a historic steam engine train with the Little River Railroad’s fall color tours. There truly is something for every age and interest.

The beautiful architecture of the Tibbits Opera House makes it a treat to visit yearround. Tibbits offers a diverse selection of arts and entertainment throughout the year. Or catch a flick at the family-owned and operated Capri Drive-In showing double features.

Grab a bite to eat at one of Coldwater Country’s locally owned diners, restaurants, or pubs. Enjoy the flavors, local scene, and hospitality of the area’s many destination restaurants. At the end of your fun-filled day, and exciting night on the town, check into one of the many hotels to rest and relax. The hotels are just minutes from all the excitement and attractions.

While traveling may look, and feel, a bit different than the past know that safety, sanitation, and social distancing is a priority to keep our residents and visitors safe. So, when you’re ready, and the time is right, we are here to help make safe family memories in Michigan’s Coldwater Country.

ColdwaterCountry.com | 517-278-0241

Shop ‘til you drop at the many unique boutiques and shops throughout the area.

Treasure the local antiques, enjoy homemade baked goods, one-of-a-kind accents, and jewelry. Coldwater Country is also home to Michigan’s Antique Capital – Allen, with the largest concentration of antique dealers in the Midwest. The area is home to five stately antique malls including the Allen Antique Barn, boasting two floors of more than 25,000 square feet of treasures.

For a magical experience head to Colon to learn magic tricks and how to entertain a crowd. Home to the big three magic shops, countless activities, and events, it’s no wonder they call Colon the Magic Capital of the World.

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Dalles, The

Oregon

The City of The Dalles, Oregon, is nestled in the foothills along the scenic Columbia River Gorge. Vistas include rolling hills and breathtaking views of Mt. Hood. The Dalles is one of Oregon’s most historical cities and was known earlier in its history as the town at the end of the Oregon Trail. In The Dalles you’ll find museums sharing the rich history, scores of fruit orchards where you can pick fresh produce yourself, recreational areas for hiking and cycling, and kind people ready to welcome you!

Start your weekend strolling along in our beautiful downtown, that is bursting with history, art, charm and delicious restaurants. Pop into one of the local shops like Klindt’s Booksellers & Stationers, Oregon’s oldest bookstore, for gifts for friends and family back home. And make sure to take your photo next to one of the many beautiful murals that are sprinkled throughout downtown.

Take a trip back in time by visiting the Fort Dalles Museum to learn more about The Dalles’ earliest inhabitants and the traders and travelers who came later along the Oregon Trail. From there, head to the Thompson Park Pool & Splash Pad with the kiddos in tow for a family picnic, or simply to enjoy some sunshine and splash in the water.

If you’re looking for a more adventurous day, you can head to one of the many hiking or biking trails. The Dalles is a beautiful oasis from the cloudier and rainier regions of the state in the west with an amazing 300 days of sunshine making it the perfect climate for an adventure.

One of the many great hikes begins at the Tom McCall Preserve, or if cycling is your passion, take a ride along the many trails in The Dalles, such as River Front Trail.

Now, if fishing is what catches your attention, the Columbia is an angler’s delight for walleye, smallmouth bass, salmon, steelhead, and the river monsters we call sturgeon. . We are a host to four rivers that offer world-class fishing. Rest up that night at the historic Balch Hotel surrounded with the serenity of nature, and maybe even schedule a blissful massage. Or just stop by for wine or cider tasting or a cold brew while you take in the views.

Spend the following day exploring the East Gorge Food Trail. Start your morning with a great community event at The Dalles Farmers Market for fresh fruits and veggies, local arts and crafts, and artisanal goods from the community. After the farmers market, get a coffee pick me up at Kainos Coffee for delicious specialty coffee that supports many charities. Stop for lunch at The Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, where you can learn about the deep history of the gorge and enjoy a lunch at the Rooted in The Gorge Cafe. Be sure to stop by the Sandoz Farm stand, where you’ll find delicious seasonal produce and canned goods. Summer is fantastic for all the berries, cherries, and more, but our fall is the perfect season for delicious apples, pears, and fresh cider. Round out your food explorations by savoring either the local wines or craft brews at Freebridge Brewing or the Sunshine Mill Winery, a converted century-old flour mill. Finish the day with a taste of history at the Baldwin Saloon, where every delicious dish is created and prepared with passion and just waiting to make your taste buds dance.

Whether it’s fun family time, food and beverage explorations, reliving history or outdoor activities you’re after, The Dalles is amazing to explore and a great place to create your own adventure.

The Dalles is

amazing

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and a great place to create your own adventure.

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lemson, South Carolina is perfectly situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and alongside three picturesque lakes. Any outdoor enthusiast will be thrilled to find recreation options aplenty including hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, disc golf and more. Explorers can start their day with a tasty breakfast sandwich to-go from Pot Belly Deli, a favorite local eatery around Clemson. Next we suggest heading to the Clemson Experimental Forest, a 17,500 acre outdoorsmen's paradise about 10 minutes from Downtown Clemson. In the Clemson Experimental Forest visitors can float around the secluded Lake Issaqueena, hike to a waterfall, mountain bike, or simply take a stroll and enjoy nature. But the outdoor exploring doesn't stop here. Clemson is also home to the South Carolina Botanical Garden, a 295-acre garden and natural area perfect for relaxation and exploration. Those who are interested in spending the day road-tripping can venture further into Pickens County. Once you hit the historic Highway 11, you'll find numerous waterfalls, mountainous overlooks, tourist-friendly farms, and even a beautifully delicious winery. Victoria Valley Vineyard provides the perfect spot to relax, have a glass of wine, and enjoy gorgeous mountain views.

A small town stocked with delicious food, eclectic shops, and a bustling downtown scene, visitors will find that Clemson has something for everyone. For home-grown, classic southern cuisine, the Esso Club is a must-visit. Opened in the 1950s, this delectable dive features a meat- and - three menu and Clemson’s favorite homemade chicken tenders. The Esso Club was even named the #4 bar in the South by Southern Living Magazine. Afterward, visitors can take a walk to Downtown Clemson where they will find many more dining and shopping establishments along its historic strip that at night turns into a lively bar scene. its easy to spot college students, locals, and Clemson University sports fanatics chatting with friends, eager to talk with newcomers about their love for Clemson.

Patrick square is a newer community with a refined Charleston style filled with restaurants, shops, and a beautiful boutique hotel, The Inn at Patrick Square. Nestled in the square is Rick Erwin's Clemson, which offers a dining experience like no other in the area. Rick Erwin's Clemson offers fresh seafood, prime steak, and a lengthy wine selection. To top off your sophisticated evening, visitors can take a short walk down the block to the Clemson Wine Bar, a gathering spot for friends to chat over premium wines. Other Patrick Square favorites are Sunny Side Café, a popular breakfast spot for locals, and Joe’s New York Pizza which features a stunning outdoor patio.

Shrimp & grits. Top right, Brisket w sides.

Hungry yet?

Clemson, South Carolina is also the perfect travel location for history buffs. Clemson University sits on land that was once owned by John C. Calhoun, South Carolina’s pre-eminent 19th century statesmen. Fort Hill Plantation, Calhoun’s once home, is still sitting on Clemson University’s campus preserved, restored and open for public tours. Take a stroll around Clemson University's campus to enjoy the rich architecture that dates back hundreds of years. Other must-visit historical locations in the area include the Hanover House within the South Carolina Botanical Gardens, Old Stone Church, Woodburn Plantation and Hopewell Plantation.

Named the “Best Place to Escape to in South Carolina” by Expedia, Clemson is a hidden treasure. Surrounded by beautiful lakes, mountains, and waterfalls and full of southern charm and rich history, Clemson is the perfect destination for travelers. Adventurers, foodies, history hounds and anyone looking for a getaway will find a haven within this small southern town.

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North Carolina From Halifax, Columbus and Hendersonville to Duplin and Franklin County, come explore one of the most beautiful states in America.

Franklin-Nantahala, NC. Wayah Bald View.

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GO “BEHIND THE BARREL” combines an antique mall and artisan’s gallery in a historic cotton mill on the banks of the Roanoke River. Scenic river overlooks, antiques, estate jewelry, silver, furniture and collectibles give shoppers and visitors a unique experience.

American Craft, including pottery, glass, jewelry, metal and wood, represent the best in national, regional and local American Craft with a strong emphasis on North Carolina artists. If you are looking for the best in Eastern NC barbecue, look no further than Ralph’s BBQ in Weldon. Owned and operated by the Woodruff family for more than 60 years, Ralph’s offers a full buffet of home cookin’ like chopped, minced and sliced barbecue with a spicy vinegar-based sauce, fried chicken, Brunswick stew, hushpuppies, banana pudding, collards, potatoes and more!

and learn about the distilling process. Enjoy new and creative spirits on the banks of the Roanoke River.

Start in Weldon, NC North Carolina’s new distillery, Weldon Mills Distillery, is pouring spirits on the banks of the Roanoke River. The vision of Bruce Tyler and Michael Hinderliter, their idea is to make “booze with cause.” Weldon Mills will produce two lines of bourbon with one dedicated to raising money for the families of fallen soldiers, and the other will be a Premium Reserve Bourbon. The Mill will offer a regular whiskey and two flavored whiskeys, one with sweet potato and the other caramel green apple. Vodka and gin will also be produced including the first rhubarb gin in the US. Riverside Mill

Continue your journey to Halifax, NC The Hen & The Hog is proud to call Historic Halifax, NC home. Patterson Wilson, a Halifax native, returned home bringing her background and career in design to reimagine the use of the town’s circa 1900’s commercial buildings. Halifax Studios is a creative workshop for area artists to teach and share their craft with the community. Bass House is a charming multi merchant shop full of unique gifts for tourists and locals. Recently opened Big Game Brewing, a brew house featuring North Carolina craft made beer, while Halifax Cottage has become a thriving Airbnb. The Hen & The Hog serves great food in a great atmosphere which has brought prosperity to the downtown.

Big Game Brewing is passionate about craft beer and the great outdoors. At Big Game Brewing they are always on the hunt for another great craft beer along with the next great outdoor adventure. So if you are on the hunt too, come join them at their beer lodge, have a pint with the locals, and tell them a story about one of your great adventures.

End your day in Roanoke Rapids, NC Roanoke Canal Museum is called “North Carolina’s longest museum.” Enjoy the two-level, interactive museum that utilizes traditional and interactive exhibits to explain how the original canal was built and turned the Roanoke River into a superhighway of commerce during the early 19th century. Oscar’s Restaurant was established in 1953 in Roanoke Rapids, NC. Built on the west side of Roanoke Rapids, in what used to be the town’s industrial area. Oscar’s features a busy breakfast, lunch, and dinner. They serve great food, offer great service, along with the old town southern experience in dining. Rivertown Consignments Rivertown is where high-end and vintage tastes meet at the crossroads. The shop is the perfect solution for people with a wide array of budgets but unfulfilled desires for high-end home furnishings, home decor, antiques and collectibles. Their goal is to offer refined and tasteful furniture, home decor and accessories as they deliver both new and a limited inventory of upscale gently used designer styles.

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- HENDERSONVILLE, NC -

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restaurants make downtown a dining destination. And artisan beverage producers throughout the county craft fine wine, beer, cider and mead.

Follow the Cheers! Trail Hendersonville contains 18 craft beverage producers. The Hendersonville Cheers! Trail allows visitors to create a selfguided tasting experience. Purchase a Cheers! Trail Passport at the Visitor Center, receive stamps as you explore the trail, and once you have a dozen, return the passport for a prize.

Your Cheers! Trail journey leads you along mountain backroads to various tasting rooms. Have a seat at the bar and talk with knowledgeable staff members with a passion for what they pour. Take a tour of the facility and learn how apples are pressed into a clean, crisp cider or how different kinds of hops bring out certain flavors in a beer. Overlook rolling vineyards where grapes await harvest.

Each fall, the Blue Ridge Mountains beckon travelers to Western North Carolina. As the days get shorter, the air becomes crisp, leaves turn brilliant colors and apples ripen throughout rolling orchards. Hendersonville, located just south of Asheville not far from the famed Blue Ridge Parkway, welcomes travelers looking for a quintessential mountain town.

With one of the most welcoming Main Streets in the region, Hendersonville encourages visitors to stroll its wide sidewalks lined with trees and brick planters and shop in its numerous boutiques and galleries. Twenty-five independently owned

In summer 2019, Hendersonville received federal recognition for its wine growing region. Designated as Crest of the Blue Ridge American Viticultural Area or AVA, Hendersonville joins the likes of Napa and Sonoma. The AVA specifies that Hendersonville has a certain soil, elevation and climate that create favorable conditions for growing grapes.

The county now contains five wineries. These small, boutique-style operations specialize in high-quality wines and a personalized visitor experience. Sip award-winning vintages while overlooking rolling vineyards and stunning mountain landscapes. One winery, Point Lookout, also produces a line of meads, or wine made from honey.

Hendersonville’s abundant orchards provide a ready supply of fresh apples for crafting hard cider. Bold Rock Hard Cider, the largest craft cidery in the country, operates a state-of-the-art cidery and apple-pressing barn just west of Hendersonville in rural Mills River. Visitors enjoy sampling from a dozen different varieties, eating from the smokehouse-style food truck and relaxing in the cider garden.

The craft beer boom has taken off in Western North Carolina. From small-scale operations to some of the largest independent producers in the country, this area is known for its brews. Ten breweries are located along the Hendersonville Cheers! Trail. The best known is the East Coast headquarters for Sierra Nevada Brewing. The palatial brewery, taproom, restaurant and beer garden have become a mecca for craft beer enthusiasts.

From casual to classy North Carolina is known for its barbecue, and Hendersonville serves some of the finest. Dig into a plate of slow-smoked pork at Hubba Hubba Smokehouse. The outdoor dining space resembles a garden oasis. At Flat Rock Wood Room, choose from award-winning brisket, chicken, pork or house-made smoked sausage.

Downtown Hendersonville offers an array of internationally inspired tastes, from authentic Italian to Latin American tapas and a sushi restaurant that draws diners from miles around.

Agriculture plays an important part in Hendersonville and the surrounding community, and several chefs work closely with local farmers to incorporate fresh ingredients into their dishes. At Season’s restaurant, the rotating menu is influenced by what’s coming out of the gardens on property. The elegant restaurant has received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence every year since 2000.

To learn more about Hendersonville and plan your Blue Ridge Mountain escape, go to www.VisitHendersonvilleNC.org or call (800) 828-4244.

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- D U P L I N C O U N T Y, N C -

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uplin County has a quite a story to tell and we can’t wait to share it with you. Our visitors are drawn here by small town charm, and our special Southern-style hospitality. We offer a little something for everyone. Enjoy exploring and shopping in our quaint small towns. For a true North Carolina Southern-style breakfast, stop into The Filling Station in Kenansville.

After breakfast stop by Liberty Hall and see the wedding dress worn by Mary Lilly Kenan, when she wed Henry Flager during “the wedding of the century.” Learn about North Carolina’s history in agriculture, particularly muscadine grapes. Wine Enthusiast for over forty years have visited Rose Hill’s Duplin Winery. Enjoy the fun and friendly atmosphere with a tour and tasting, followed by lunch at The Bistro. Stop off in Downtown Wallace and visit the many shops and boutiques, then pop on over to Mik’s for lunch.

Play a round of golf at River Landing and then have a fabulous dinner at The Mad Boar. The Mad Boar offers on Old-World Irish pub feel and features steaks, ribs, and seafood as well as a luxurious salad bar.

Downtown Warsaw is home to the longest continuous Veteran’s Day celebration in the county and the Duplin County Veterans Museum, where history of the U. S. Military comes alive. Warsaw is also the home of The Country Squire Restaurant, Vintage Inn, and Winery. Visitors have enjoyed this centerpiece of Duplin County for its rustic charm and Scottish flavor for over fifty years.

They’ve even opened their own winery with on-site vineyards and a tasting room.

We welcome you to enjoy Duplin County’s premier travel and entertainment packages at discounted rates. With something in mind for any occasion, choose from dinner theaters, wine tastings, tour packages, lunch escapes, or romantic getaways.

G ROOM N I T S ARE ONLY THE S A T BEGINNING TO OUR MANY F L AVO R S

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Whether you have a taste for history, nature, or the more quirky things in life, Duplin County has a collection of interesting places that will satisfy your craving.

Come. Explore. And, you’ll soon discover there’s more to Duplin beyond the vine.

Find your pace at UncorkDuplin.com Cabin Lake County Park • Cottle Farms • Country Squire Winery • Cowan Museum of History & Science • Duplin Country Club Duplin County Events Center • Duplin County Veterans Museum • Duplin Winery • Faison Museum • Liberty Hall Restoration Mad Boar Restaurant • River Landing • Tarkil Branch Farm’s Homestead Museum • The Country Barn • The Tipsy Bee • World’s Largest Frying Pan

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Every year, in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Mother Nature puts on a magical show. As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, the fall colors that cover the mountains arrive. One by one, the reds, yellows, oranges, and gold leaves take their place high atop the Appalachian Mountains. This is your invitation to join us for our favorite season of the year.

A typical day starts out with a low fog hanging on as the sun begins to rise over the eastern ridges. The crisp morning air and dew on the ground begin to usher in the changing of the guard, so to speak. The tops of the mountains are the first to change, then the colors make their way into the valleys below.

Franklin and Nantahala, North Carolina are two very distinct communities that are tucked away in the southwest corner of the state. A hidden gem, quite literally, as Franklin’s moniker for decades was the “Gem Capital of the World”. The mountains that surround Franklin and Nantahala are some of the oldest mountains in the world. They were rich in deposits of precious gems and minerals, and between gem mining and farming, the two communities were born.

Main Street in Franklin in the fall is picture perfect. People walking the sidewalks, catching up with old friends, the ringing of the front door bell as shops open for the day.

In the distance, not too far off from town, the Southern Nantahala Mountains meet up with the Appalachian and the Great Smoky Mountains as they rise up out of the valleys below.

Nantahala, the Cherokee word for “Land of the Noon Day Sun” is an outdoor adventure seeker’s paradise. Nantahala Lake’s pristine waters are perfect for all types of watersports, boating, fishing, and jet skiing to name a few. Beyond the lake, lies the Nantahala River. Whether you are looking to test your kayaking skills on the rapids or set up for some world-class fly fishing, the Nantahala River Gorge will not disappoint you.

Getting to Franklin from Nantahala, you drive along the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway.

When you reach Wayah Gap, you can drive the Forest Service road to Wayah Bald. At nearly a mile high, Wayah Bald is a leaf lovers bounty, as you walk the paved path to an incredible 360-degree view. On a clear day, four states are visible from the tower. Wayah Bald is also where the Appalachian Trail intersects with the Bartram Trail and sees hundreds of thru-hikers each year.

Continuing on the Mountain Waters Scenic Byway, east of Franklin, is a stretch of highway that runs through the Cullasaja River Gorge. The road twists and turns its way up into some of the most scenic mountain views, waterfalls, and quiet riverside pull offs, made even more magical by the colors of fall. As you make your way past the 200’ high Cullasaja Falls, the swimming hole Bust Your Butt Falls, and the main attraction, Dry Falls, a 60’ waterfall that you can walk under.

While we don’t expect you to spend all of your time out exploring the mountain trails, scenic roads, and natural wonders, we wouldn’t blame you if you do. Franklin and Nantahala are your gateway to adventure and places you can get away from big crowds in cramped cities. Fresh air, magical fall colors, and the mountains of Western North Carolina.

We’ve only just begun to tell you our story and we invite you to get to know your mountainside in nature’s paradise, Franklin and Nantahala, North Carolina.

Website: www.exploringwnc.com YouTube Video Link: https://youtu.be/f2rrO6up6QM

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Nantahala, the Cherokee word for “Land of the Noon Day Sun” is an outdoor adventure seeker’s paradise

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tell you a beautiful story There’s nothing more welcoming than the smile of a friendly local in a quaint town that genuinely asks how you are and treats you like family. This is the treatment you will receive when visiting Columbus County, North Carolina. Discover a rich history, wild and scenic rivers, the magic of Lake Waccamaw, antique scouting opportunities, and adventurous dining in friendly Southern towns. Explore one of the most beautiful parts of Southeastern North Carolina by canoe or kayak, bicycle, or car. Come celebrate with us at one of Columbus County’s many festivals like the Siouan Waccamaw Pow Wow, learn about railroad history and Southern life as it once was in our museums, or enjoy almost any type of outdoor recreation, including golfing, sailing, hunting, and fishing.

The friendly and welcoming residents of Chadbourn, Fair Bluff, Lake Waccamaw, Tabor City, Bolton, and Whiteville will be glad to introduce you to the delights of Columbus County.

Whether you come for a daytrip (a quick jump from I95, US 74 or US 701), or you decide stay longer at one of our many hotels, bed and breakfast establishments, or campgrounds, you’ll discover a place and a community that you will definitely want to visit again!

Lake Waccamaw Lake Waccamaw is one of the largest natural lakes on the Eastern Seaboard and most unique bodies of water in the world. Discover the phenomenon of the Carolina Bays with species of aquatic life that cannot be found anywhere else. Enjoy watersports and boating on the lake, and of course fishing opportunities abound.

The Lumber River Meandering through century-old cypress and tupelo swamps, the tea-colored waters of the Lumber River swiftly glide from the sandhills of North Carolina to the Little Pee Dee River in South Carolina. The Lumber River is the only blackwater river in North Carolina designated as a National Wild and Scenic River by the Department of Labor. Go fishing, enjoy the water, camp at a primitive campsite, kayak, and so much more on the Lumber River.

Shopping and Dining Discover the magic of Southern comfort food.

Enjoy a hot dog or hamburger "all the way" at one of several burger spots in downtown Whiteville or savor Eastern style BBQ at Joe's Old Fashioned Barbeque. Stop in for some ice cream at Daddy Joe’s in Tabor City, and let the kids play at the nearby Jellystone water park. Enjoy a stroll downtown, where visitors will feel as though they stepped into Mayberry. Smiling faces will greet you in every gift shop, gallery, restaurant, antique dealer, and boutique store.

Accommodations Top, Jellystone water park near Daddy Joe’s in Tabor City.

When you are here, you are family, and there is always room for you! Whether you are looking for something local, budget friendly, or something a little more private, Columbus County has accommodations for all travelers. Stay in a beautiful B&B, such as Weaver’s Landing Bed and Breakfast, or or check into Lumber River Campground or Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. If you are more interested in the outdoors, try a primitive campground on Lumber River. There are also vacation rentals to choose from during your stay, such as Lake Escape on Lake Waccamaw.

Let our location tell your next vacation story!

For more information and to plan your next trip to the beautiful area of Columbus County, North Carolina, visit thecolumbuschamber.com

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fallfoliage STUNNING

EXPLORE THIS SEASON’S MOST

ROAD

PICTURESQUE ROADS AROUND THE

COUNTRY. YOU WONT BE DISAPPOINTED!

TRIPS

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estled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Rabun County, Georgia’s northeastern most county, claims the title to the state’s Farm-to-Table Capital and five Best Chef America award recipients. But with three state parks, rivers, lakes, trails and more than two dozen waterfalls, resorts, golf courses, four wineries and two distilleries, there is so much more to bring you here than just the amazing dining.

Top right, Dillard Stable. Top left, Ziplinning at Highlands Aerial Parks

If you’re and outdoor adventurer/weekend warrior, you belong in Rabun County! Three state parks, Tallulah Gorge, Black Rock Mountain, and Moccasin Creek, provide countless hiking and biking trails that end in aweinspiring views of vast mountain horizons, rocky cliffs and chasms or stunning waterfalls. With rivers and lakes galore, you can spend your day on waters white or calm. Try Southeastern Expeditions for rafting and kayaking.

Or hit the lake, for jet skiing, paddling, fishing or simply cruising around and enjoying the moment. You can fly through the tree tops, zip lining over 250 feet off the ground at the Highlands Aerial Park or you can saddle up for a casual horseback ride through the woods and across cool streams at the Dillard House Stables.

For those who prefer their libations a bit stronger, R.M. Rose and Moonrise Distilleries offer an interesting selection of finely crafted, small batch artisan spirits along with a relaxed and inviting atmosphere in which to share them with your friends, old and new.

After all that excitement, let’s not forget about the food. Rabun County offers a wide assortment of dining choices from award winning bar-be-que to traditional Southern home cookin’ and everything in-between. But Farm-to-Table is why they’re on the If shopping is your thing, you’ll be well satisfied even without the malls. map. Beechwood Inn (chef David Darugh), Lake There are antique shops and flea markets for the scavenger hunters, eclectic Rabun Hotel (chef Travis Cintron), Julep Farms (chef galleries and specialty shops for those who revel in making unique Shaen Ferren), Rabun Manor (chef James Weaver), acquisitions. And of course, there are the farmers’ markets, where “fresh” The Red Barn Café at Tiger Mountain Vineyards and “local” become yours to take home. (chef Leon Lemoine), The Chophouse at LaPrades (chef James Reaux), The Farmhouse at Waterfall Discerning travelers will find Kingwood, Sky Valley and Waterfall Country (chef Vince Scafiti) and Fortify Kitchen (chef Jamie Clubs offer top-of-the-line golf, spas and accommodations that are as close Allred), are where that action is happening. Each to heaven as they appear to be. For the more “down-to-earth” traveler, chef creates a unique menu inspired by the day’s there is a wealth of other options for an overnight stay. From primitive local harvest and the presentation is as fresh as the camping and campgrounds to historic B&Bs and quaint cabins or chalets, ingredients. Meals are paired with wines that come there is room for everyone. straight from the vineyard either in the backyard or just around the corner. All in all, this quiet little Then there are the wineries! Tiger Mountain, 12 Spies, Stonewall Creek and county can boast a dining experience that rivals the Terra Incognita all create award winning varieties from their own vines, likes of Tuscany or Provence, and it’s only just over including Malbec, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Manseng. The soil the hill from downtown Atlanta. is ideal at this elevation and as a result, the vineyards not only boast about their fabulous wines, but also of their spectacular views. Tours and tastings Need we say more? Except, “what are your waiting are available where anyone can enjoy both at the same time. for?”

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- CLARKSVILLE, TN -

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rom a bustling downtown to relaxing country drives framed by extravagant fall color, Clarksville, Tenn. is a favorite mid-south fall road trip. If your getaway wish-list includes off-the-beaten-path but convenient, affordable with plenty to do, natural beauty and not too crowded, Clarksville checks all your boxes.

Let these ideas inspire you to start planning today.

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The rural Historic Collinsville Pioneer Settlement is spread over 40 expansive acres. The 16 log structures are filled with authentic furnishings from 1840-1880. Open Friday– Sunday, May–October, tours at the site are self-guided.

Random benches and picnic tables invite you to relax and appreciate the timeless surroundings.

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Cooler temperatures and lower humidity mean dining outdoors becomes a pleasant experience again! Try Strawberry Alley Ale Works with a main floor balcony overlooking the Cumberland River. The vista from the patio at Liberty Park Grille includes the marina and is another favorite spot to enjoy a magnificent river sunset.

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Founded on the river, the city of Clarksville thrived early because of river trade. Residents and visitors alike still love the Cumberland and the many amenities it affords. The paved Cumberland RiverWalk meanders along the rivers curves and bends and connects directly to downtown via the Upland Trail. Enjoy restaurants, a playground, swings and benches, public art and picnic areas alongside scenic river views.

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Follow the African American Legacy Trail, a 19-point walking and driving trail to historic sites such as the Mount Olive Cemetery and the Port Royal Benevolent Society. Learn about Olympic Gold Medalist Wilma Rudolph and others who contributed significantly to the city’s and nation’s history.

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Soak up the splendor of fall color along the nine-mile Clarksville Greenway. The paved trail is ideal for walking, running, biking (bring your equipment or rent on site), or skating. Hop on the converted railbed at multiple access points. Enjoy creek and river views, open fields and dense woods, bluffs, hills and long straightaways -- nature at its finest! Dogs are welcome too, just make sure to keep them on a leash.

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Even Tennessee’s fifth-largest city still offers plenty of rural highways and country backroads. Fields are being harvested and tobacco barns can still be found firing the crop that made Clarksville one of the wealthiest cities in the nation in the mid-19th century. You can learn about how the tobacco trade influenced Clarksville’s history at the Customs House Museum and Fort Defiance Civil War Park.

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Clarksville’s 34-year-old winery, six craft breweries, distillery, and meadery will all unveil new seasonal offerings in time for fall. Tennessee Valley Brewing’s fall favorite Bastogne Brown, a pecan nutbrown with a hint of vanilla, and Old Glory Distilling’s Cinnamon Roll Smooth Shine are samples of what tasters can enjoy this autumn.

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From beginning to advanced, find your cycling thrill along one of Clarksville’s designed mountain biking trails. Rotary Park and North Ford Mountain Bike Trail offer exhilarating hills, jumps and tight switchbacks.

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Dunbar Cave State Park is one of Clarksville’s most popular natural wonders. The cave is settled among 144 acres with hiking trails, wildlife, and a fascinating visitor center. With a seasonal guided cave tour where it’s 58 degrees year around, you can see 14th century Mississippian art.

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Clarksville’s diverse population brings a surprisingly global flair to the city and its food scene. Savor authentic dishes from the Asian realm, the Mediterranean, and Europe, as well as your Southern favorites like BBQ and catfish.

See these details and more at visitclarksvilletn.com or download the free Visit Clarksville App to create, save and share your custom itinerary.

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A historic, quaint downtown square with neighborhood restaurants, boutiques and antique shopping.

Top left, Clayborn.

Right Cedars of Lebanon.

Bottom left, Lebanon Square

Orchards and farms to pick your own peaches, apples, and berries, campgrounds and hiking trails, candy shops, murals, and art galleries. Is this a set description for the latest cable channel movie? You know, the one where she escapes the hustle and bustle of the big city to find the love and wonder she’s always been searching for in the small town that is 100% rural Americana. No. These are some of the many things waiting for you in Watertown, Mt. Juliet, and Lebanon – the cities that make up Wilson County, Tennessee.

Located just east of Nashville, Wilson County (WilCo) is where you will find friendly faces, historic places, and authentic southern hospitality.

WilCo has you covered, whatever your interest. From the rich history of Wilson County in our buildings and museums to the latest trends and styles in our many shops. From kayaking, horseback riding, and hiking in our beautiful state parks to finding the perfect sweet treat at our bakeries and creameries. All these things and all the many things in between can be found in Wilson County, Tennessee.

You are ready to get out of the house. You are due for a road trip. WilCo is waiting for you just down the road.

So, pack a bag and get everyone in the car. Clear your mind as you travel down the beautiful highways and byways of Tennessee to Wilson County where the rooms are ready for you, your table is waiting at one of the many restaurants, and the friendly faces are ready to greet you.

There’s a good chance that wherever you are reading this right now, you could probably hop in the car and be here in time to catch a movie at the Stardust Drive-In, but don’t waste any more time, shows start at dusk.

To find out more about what makes Wilson County “Near Nashville, Miles From Ordinary”, visit VisitWiLCo.com and start planning your trip!

"”No Road is Too Long With Good Company.”

San Juan Skyway Colorado

The long and winding San Juan Skyway is worth every minute you will spend traveling on it. The byway is designated as a National Forest Scenic Byway and passes through Mesa Verde National Park. Get your camera ready for some amazing pictures, because you will soon find yourself in the heart of the San Juan Mountain range, where the caps meet the blue sky and the rest of the land below is set ablaze with some of the most beautiful fall colors in the country. The adrenaline-inducing, narrow Million Dollar Highway that runs from Silverton to Ouray is the perfect path to indulge in overhang and 360-degree views.

Kancamagus Highway New Hampshire

The locals call it the “Kanc,” but make no mistake, the shortening of the name does not decrease the amount of awe you will be in while driving on it. The highway itself is just under 35 miles long, and features spectacular views that everyone will want to capture. There are plenty of stopping points with lookouts along the route, so don’t be shy about being a leaf-peeper.

Get on out of your car and take it all in! Be prepared, you will want to make sure you have a full tank of gas before getting on the highway, as there aren’t many options if you need to stop. Take in the scenery of the White Mountain National Forest and overlooks that offer up the most breath-taking bird’s-eye views. This road is quite popular during the fall season, so plan for a bit of traffic. It is, however, totally worth the leisurely drive, as you will want to stop and get out to really appreciate your surroundings.

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Mohawk Trail Massachusetts

Starting from Athol and ending in Williamstown, the Mohawk Trail is nearly 70 miles of pure fall foliage bliss. Prepare for astounding vistas of the Taconic Mountains, as well as the Berkshires. Wildlife is frequently spotted along the route, so keep your eyes peeled for a bear, bobcat, or other animals. Orange, red and yellow light up against blueish-gray skies to create a backdrop perfect for the trendiest of Instagram photos. Make sure you get out to snap your pictures, though. You won’t want to take your eyes off this winding road, as it is known for catching drivers off guard, with the most treacherous being the extremely tight turn known as Dead Man's Curve.

Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia to North Carolina

If you’re what we like to call a true leaf-peeper, then you must already know about the Blue Ridge Parkway. However, in case you didn’t, let us refresh you. This is one of the longest parkways in the country worth cruising for fall foliage wonders, at just under 470 miles long. Of course, you may not be willing to travel its entire length, but if you can, at least make it through the parts in North Carolina. The mountains are both low and high, as you will notice upon traveling through the Great Smoky Mountains. The mist is mysterious yet calming, and the many different species of trees create the most inspiring of views. This road is definitely a must-visit for any fall foliage fiend.

bottom, Albany Covered Bridge, along the Kancamagus Highway in White Mountain National Forest, New Hampshire. Left, Blue Ridge Parkway Linn Cove Viaduct North Carolina at night with stars.

Whether you’re looking for a small stretch of road through a quaint town, or a variety of things to do on a much longer journey through fall’s best natural decorations, these destinations and the roads that travel through them are well worth the gas.

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Photo by Leslie Paquiot. PGEB Beach Family Don Pedro.

T R AV E L T H E

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Florida Charlotte County, Okeechobee, Franklin County, and Orlando have authentic Florida charm to offer any visitor who comes their way.

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hether you ask the locals or visitors, everyone agrees that Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach offers more of the Florida outside activities you love in one place. That’s why they say, “Our Best Side is Outside.” In fact, the outside activities found along the Charlotte Harbor Gulf Island Coast are so outstanding and abundant, that there’s a term for people who live in and visit the area. People who love getting outside among untouched nature and breathing in the fresh Gulf air. People who want to spend their days relaxing on a beautiful beach, exploring a sprawling nature preserve, studying a vast array of native wildlife, and dining on Gulf-fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants.

These people are called Outsiders, and in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, they say, “Outsiders Welcome.”

“BEING AN OUTSIDER MEANS SO MUCH MORE THAN GETTING

O U T S I D E A N D E N J O Y I N G T H E I N C R E D I B L E F L O R I D A W E AT H E R . ”

However, in early 2020, like almost everywhere else in the world, Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach couldn’t welcome the Outsiders they love so dearly. Because they didn’t know what to expect, and for the health and safety of all of us, these Outsiders had to stay inside. But now we all know that outside activities are a perfectly safe way to maintain social distancing and still have fun. So it’s time to come back. Back to fishing for tarpon. Back to bicycle rides through a charming downtown or a winding nature trail. Back to paddling through a mangrove tunnel either in a kayak, canoe, or on a paddleboard. Back to staying in one-of-a-kind accommodations directly on the beach. And back to all the other outside activities that make Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach a gateway to outdoor Florida adventure. It’s finally time to say, “Outsiders Welcome BACK.” Being an Outsiders means so much more than getting outside and enjoying the incredible Florida weather. In Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, being an Outsider means doing things your own way and wanting a vacation that’s as unique as you are. And in this outside playground of untouched natural splendor, even the locals are Outsiders.

While he might not spend every second of every day outside like most Outsiders, Alex Voss loves this area as much as anyone. That’s why he decided to open up Alligator Bay Distillers in Punta Gorda after returning to the area. Having spent years in Hawaii honing his craft as a distiller, Alex brought what he knew back home to Florida and is producing award-winning small-batch rum made from locally-sourced ingredients.

Outsiders like Paige Taylor, who was one of the first people to bring paddleboarding to Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach with her company Hooked on SUP. She and her team provide informative tours while paddling the calm inland waters that weave their way throughout the area. She teaches her guests to respect the natural surroundings while still having a lot of fun.

These are only some of the Outsiders that call Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach their home. That’s why you’re invited to come back and meet them all for yourself. The safe and fun outside activities found here, combined with the plethora of private rentals available, make this a great destination for social distancing and staying healthy. So if you’re visiting for the first time, welcome to a destination that puts the best of Florida’s outside experiences all in one place. But if you’re returning, on behalf of everyone in Punta Gorda/Englewood Beach, “Outsiders Welcome BACK.”

There’s also Mark Timchula, or better known by his Outsider name, the Beach Guy. You can almost always find him at the gorgeous Englewood Beach. There, he rents out beach chairs and umbrellas so visitors can worry more about getting down to the shore than about what to pack. He’s also a wealth of information and knows some of the best places to keep the party going well after you’re done with your beach day.

Adriana Quiñones is an Outsider and a scholar, turning her passion for and knowledge of plants into a career as the Executive Director of the Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Garden.

Here, you can explore some inspiring outside art pieces including abstract sculptures and stunning lifelike statues. Plus, the grounds are covered in a huge variety of plant life with everything from towering trees to vibrant colorful flowers.

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- OKEECHOBEE , FL -

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keechobee County is your outdoor paradise. This beautifully serene rural community still values the old Florida lifestyle with down home Southern hospitality and scenic land undisturbed by rapid population growth. Okeechobee is known for its agriculturally rich pastures and operating dairy’s. Okeechobee County is at the Northern shore of the awe-inspiring Lake Okeechobee.

Lake Okeechobee is 730 square miles of fishing nirvana. Lake Okeechobee named by the Seminoles as “big water” is host to a number of guides that will take you to treasured “fishing spots” that will give any angler a number of stories to take home. Largemouth bass dominate the fishermen’s attention throughout the year while the well-known Speckled Perch take front position during the peak of tourism season which runs from October through March. This is the Bass Capital of the World, check this beautiful lake off your bucket list!

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“Lake Okeechobee also offers scenic trails that are excellent for walking, jogging, biking and bird watching.

The trail that surrounds this massive lake is the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (L.O.S.T).”

Lake Okeechobee also offers scenic trails that are excellent for walking, jogging, biking and bird watching. The trail that surrounds this massive lake is the Lake Okeechobee Scenic Trail (L.O.S.T). This trail just about surrounds the entire lake and leaves no nature lover disappointed. Okeechobee is a wellloved area for rare and hard to find birds aplenty. This area is a bird watchers treasure as during the winter months there are a number of winter migratory birds often in large flocks then during the summer months the Sandhill Crane, Mottled Duck, Burrowing Owl, Grasshopper Sparrow, and Caracara are everywhere as well as Florida specialties such as the Snail Kite, Limpkins and a suite of wading birds such as herons, egrets and ibis just to name a few.

Okeechobee County is not just about the lake though we are extremely proud of our greatest natural asset. Okeechobee is home to a number of other sporting activities that definitely make our location a Sportsman’s Paradise. Hunting is popular with not only seasonal visitors but residents as well. Deer, hog, duck and even gator hunting keep the hunting guides busy and the hunter’s hauling trophies home for bragging rights. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) offers all the information for our hunting seasons and the opportunity to purchase your licenses.

Looking to improve or develop some great shooting skills?

Okeechobee has a number of gun ranges that offer shooting sports of all kinds. Most of these facilities are outdoors and offer lodging, shopping and the greatest ranges and instructors around. Check out the Quail Creek Plantation for experienced hunting guides and wonderful lodging options. The OK Corral has a fun western theme with fantastic cabins, a great restaurant and a fully stocked store with all your shooting needs. Okeechobee Shooting Sports offers experienced instructors, professional ranges and more. There is also an indoor archery range called Skull Hill Archery located conveniently off the main highway through town and a new state of the art gun range called Center Mass just on your way into town!

Although Okeechobee offers fantastic outdoor adventures such as airboating, horse back riding and other entertainment there always comes a time when the day draws to a close and the days activities bring on a fierce appetite. Okeechobee offers wonderful food options to the most spectacular steaks to the tastiest seafood! Dinner served, memories made and now time to dream of what Okeechobee may bring the next day at any of our hotels, motels, campgrounds or RV Resorts.

Looking for your Paradise Outdoors?

Welcome to Okeechobee, Florida.

For information on any of these great getaways visit our website:

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- F R A N K L I N C O U N T Y, F L -

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Florida’s Forgotten Coast

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ucked away along Florida’s Northern Gulf coast is a two-lane coastal highway that meanders through the quiet coastal communities of Apalachicola, St. George Island, Carrabelle, Eastpoint and Alligator Point. This is Florida’s Forgotten Coast, a protected oasis with quiet beaches, wooded trails and scenic paddling sloughs about 70 miles southwest of Tallahassee. The environment is the economy here and visitors enjoy uncrowded beaches, fishing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, discovering heritage sites and, of course, eating fresh Apalachicola Bay seafood.

SEAFOOD CENTRAL Eastpoint is seafood central for the commercial fishing industry along the Forgotten Coast. Whether it’s oysters, harvested by aquaculture farmers, bluecrabs, shrimp or fish, you can find it in one of the small seafood markets tucked along the shore.

Here you can also enjoy some of the region’s tastiest gumbo overlooking the bay at Lynn’s Quality Seafood. Wash it down at the Eastpoint Beer Company – a new locally-owned brewery that overlooks the St. George Sound featuring craft beers, a weekly market and live music.

“The environment is the economy here and visitors enjoy uncrowded beaches, fishing, kayaking, swimming, hiking, discovering heritage sites and, of course, eating fresh Apalachicola Bay seafood.”

East of Eastpoint, you’ll discover a fisherman’s paradise in Carrabelle. Perched at the mouth of the Carrabelle River, this quiet coastal hamlet features a working waterfront with fullservice marinas. Enjoy fresh fare and a beautiful sunset watching the boats unload their daily catch at Fathom’s Steam Room and Raw Bar.

Recreational opportunities abound around Carrabelle from white sand beaches to hiking and kayaking in Tate’s Hell State Forest. Tours of the Crooked River Lighthouse and Camp Gordon Johnson World War II Museum are fun and educational. Golfers can enjoy a round of golf at the St. James Bay Golf Club, the area’s Audubon Signature Sanctuary and Championship Course. After a round, enjoy “coastal comfort cuisine” at the Club’s Crooked River Grill featuring a local favorite – the crabby paddie sandwich.

ST. GEORGE ISLAND BEACHES One of four offshore barrier islands, St. George Island claims the area’s most beautiful pristine beaches; the Julian G. Bruce St. George Island State Park, at the far east end of the island, ranks amid the top beaches in the country. St. George Island is a family and pet-friendly beach haven with miles of uncrowded shoreline.

You can relax beachside at the Blue Parrot Bar and Grill and enjoy a basket of steamed shrimp as you watch the dolphins play or experience the region’s largest open-air tiki bar at Doc Myers’ Island Pub. There are no high rises here – the highest point on the 28-mile long St. George Island is the 77-foot tall historic Cape St. George Lighthouse that serves as a welcome beacon as you arrive.

HISTORIC APALACHICOLA A visit to Apalachicola is an experience rich in maritime heritage, cuisine, art and a growing music scene. More than 900 historic homes and pre-civil war brick warehouses serve as homes, elegant inns, gourmet restaurants and entertainment venues. Shoppers enjoy eclectic boutiques, galleries and weekly farmers’ markets. The Owl Café, Tap Room and Tamara’s Café are located in the heart of the town’s historic downtown district. Recent renovations to the iconic Gibson Inn, and its inhouse restaurant, The Franklin, has garnered acclaim for its popular murder mystery weekends and the restaurant’s unique fusion of Japanese, French and Southern cuisine.

Apalachicola is very pet-friendly and there’s probably no place that’s more pet friendly than the Oyster City Brewing Company (OCBC). A brew pub located in the historic downtown, the OCBC features sidewalk benches and tables perfect to linger with your furry friend. The brewery uses local ingredients in its award-winning brews, including locally harvested Tupelo Honey - a key ingredient in the brewery’s Hooter Brown Tupelo Honey Ale. Beer and food is event-worthy here – the area hosts a charity beer fest in the fall along with several annual culinary events including the Florida Seafood Festival, an Oyster Cook-off, rib cookoff and the region’s largest chili cookoff each Spring on St. George Island.

Discover more about Franklin County’s amenities, vacation getaway deals and restaurants, shopping and lodging at FloridasForgottenCoast.com/taste

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“A LOT OF VISITORS ARRIVE FOR THE THEME PARKS, BECAUSE LET’S BE HONEST, THEY’RE SO MUCH FUN AND ORLANDO IS HOME TO A LOT OF THEM.”

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ost people are aware that the epicenter of fun in Central Florida is the beautiful town of Orlando.

From Old Town to the theme park attractions, and everything in between, Orlando is the ultimate spot for a family getaway. Enjoy the many hotels and resorts to accommodate all types of parties, from small family suites, to large wedding groups, and more.

Old Town is part of the entertainment district in Kissimmee, and it boasts carnival-themed rides, along with plenty of different restaurants and souvenir shops, bars, nightlife, live music, concessions, and even some museums, arcades, and a car show! Old Town will give you the feel of being in a town all of your own, complete with fun things to do for the whole family. Kids will enjoy bumper cars and swings, while the adults may prefer to try their luck on the giant bungee ride – hope you aren’t afraid of heights!

A lot of visitors arrive for the theme parks, because let’s be honest, they’re so much fun and Orlando is home to a lot of them. Get your tickets to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney World, Universal Studios, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Sea World, Disney Springs, Aquatica, Discovery Cove, Islands of Adventure, LEGOLAND, or Volcano Bay. You would need a few weeks in Orlando just to visit every theme park that the town has to offer.

Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure are great for any movie lovers, not to mention the land of Dr. Seuss in Islands of Adventure! Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter – an enormous attraction that was so expansive it was split between the two parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure). The attractions of Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade are connected by the Hogwarts Express. Any Harry Potter fan, or magic fan in general, would love these attractions alone!

Get a henna tattoo, visit the wax museum, and stop in for lunch at the Sugar Factory, a celebrity-frequented restaurant known for their extravagant milkshakes and custom dishes, complete with fun music. Many birthday celebrations occur at the Sugar Factory, where they play whatever song you request, and the entire staff comes out and joins in a dance party for the duration of the song.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, it is a sure thing that Orlando has you covered! For more information and to book your next trip here, visit www.visitorlando.com.

If you’ve ever read about Orlando, or visited before, you know that people recognize the city by the iconic, giant Ferris wheel that lights up at night at Icon Park. There are plenty of awesome things to do at the park besides the obvious ride that you’ll need to take on the Ferris wheel, which allows you to see the entire city.

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Whether you want to E NJOY a glass of wine, a p i n t of BEER , o r a s h ot of yo u r favo r i te l i q u o r,

SIP&

t h e s e d e s t i n at i o n s a re s u re to QU E N CH yo u r t h i r s t .

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Distillery Spotlight> Garrison Brothers Distillery Hye, Texas

Making the first legal Texas bourbon sounded fun – not all fun things are easy, though. After putting much thought into wanting to create a bourbon all their own, Garrison Brothers distillery finally took a crack at it, and in the first go-round, the barrels cracked back. Leaking the precious fluids from their containers, the Texas heat proved to be too much for the distillery to handle. The bottles were breaking, the barrels were taking blow after blow from the rays of the sun, the fight between nature and a Texas dream was over, and all hope was lost – for a moment.

After hundreds of gallons of bourbon-in-the-making were wasted, Garrison Brothers figured out how to accurately beat the heat. Their first batch was finally finished and with great accomplishment at that, never mind the taste.

But how did it taste? Wonderful. It was quite literally, the taste of sweet victory.

Yo u ’ l l b e a b l e t o s p e a k w i t h st af f, V IE W t h e process of how their S P I R I TS A R E M A D E , a n d of course, sample and S A VOR t h e g o o d s !

Garrison Brothers Distillery prides itself on being welcoming, honest, hard-working, and above all, passionate. Passionate to bring each visitor a glass to savor, and a good time to go along with it. From small batches to single barrels, and so much more, Garrison Brothers Distillery urges you to come give their “babies” a try. Each batch is hand-crafted with the finest ingredients and aged to perfection.

Take a 1-2 hour tour of the working ranch that the distillery calls home. You’ll be able to speak with staff, view the process of how their spirits are made, and of course, sample and savor the goods!

Unique Brews> Church Brew Works Pittsburgh, PA

Some would argue that beer itself is worth worshipping as the foundation of a religion. Thankfully, things don’t have to get that serious. Church Brew Works is however, keeping the look and feel of their renovated church building. Enjoy an atmosphere where your Sunday Best is not required, but your thirst for good beer is. Sit in old church pews as you sip and savor, and know that the tanks on the altar are exactly the place your beer order came from. Keeping the look and feel really adds to the appeal of the brewery, and makes for unique travel conversation as well! Try the Pious Monk Dunkel or the ThunderHop IPA.

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Wine Pairings> Wine is something you either love or hate, right? Maybe not, but in our experience, a person either considers themselves to be a wine connoisseur or dodges the libation altogether. If you’re on the fence, here is a pairing guide – just the basics! – that can help you learn to appreciate wine a little more. And don’t worry, there’s no harm in trying a particular type of wine again, even if you didn’t enjoy it the first time. Wine accentuates food, and vice versa.

Therefore, if the wine you weren’t so keen on at first, is paired with a specific food, you may develop a taste for it out of sheer compliment to the dish you’ve been savoring.

White Wine

White Wine goes beautifully with veggie-rich dishes, sweets, and soft cheeses. Think charcuterie boards, light salads, and dessert bars. There are different types of white wines, such as dry, sweet, and rich. Dry white wines are better with more bitter veggies, whereas a rich white wine would accent raw veggies or a salad in an effortless way. Dry and rich white wines pair wonderfully with seafood as well. Sweet wines may be too much for some people with dessert, but it is known for bringing out the hints of a more subtle sugar when paired with a fluffy cake or a mousse.

Sometimes a sweet white wine can be dessert all on its own!

Dessert Wine

If you’re not a fan of white wine, or you would like to try something different with your dessert, opt for a sherry or port wine. These wine types go great with chocolate and have a strong but smooth taste. A port wine is also great for sweet and savory combos, such as a soft cheese spread on a crusty bread and then drizzled with honey. Yum!

Red Wine

Red Wine is said to be the hardest of wines to get along with. Not only do they have strong characters, but they are known for being bold and daring. They are rich in color (careful not to spill!) and taste. Bold red wines go with hard cheeses, cured, meat, and red meat – basically anything salty and super savory. Pair a merlot with a baked chicken dinner and nutty, roasted veggies for a symphony on your taste buds. Pinot noir reds sit on the cusp for shellfish and chicken as well, so if your dish of choice contains both of those proteins, a pinot noir is not a bad choice.

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Gumbo for your Soul I N S T. L A N D RY PA R I S H

Why do you travel? For many, it is to see new sights, have one-of-a-kind experiences, or to learn something new about the world or even themselves. All of that and more can be found in St. Landry Parish. Stunning outdoor views, food that feeds your soul, and a history that set the stage for Louisiana musicians, will have you itching to plan your next trip.

One of the standout reasons to visit St. Landry Parish lies in the wonders of Louisiana’s iconic ecosystems, four of which are represented in this parish. From towering cypress trees home to our national bird, the bald eagle, to fearsome alligators that prowl the chocolate-colored water of our bayous, there is so much to see. Whether you want to explore the wetlands in a guided tour, kayak along the calm waters of Bayou Teche, or walk the trails through woods and prairieland frozen in time, St. Landry Parish has the opportunities for you.

When you set out to enjoy the outdoors in our parish, be it through our wildlife management areas, prairie restoration sites, or winding waterways, be prepared to spot rare birds. Brightlycolored songbirds, large water birds, and rare raptors wait for you to photograph in their natural habitats. Check out CajunTravel.com/blog for more details about birding in our parish, including a handy checklist that dedicated birders out there can use at your leisure.

With authentic staples of Cajun and Creole cuisine, you won’t go hungry in this part of Louisiana. From boudin to cracklins and crawfish made every way possible, there are flavors you must taste to believe. When it comes to gumbo, every chef and local does it differently. Try this hearty dish, served at nearly every restaurant, and have an entirely new experience each time.

Each dish builds upon the other to paint a portrait of the palate of St. Landry Parish.

Here, you can dine with a view of slow-moving bayous, in upscale hidden gems within haunted locales, find the best in drive-through barbecue, or shop local groceries for family-owned, seasoning blends and homemade boudin.

There’s a sweet side to our local flavor as well.

During Mardi Gras, a vibrant king cake is waiting for you. You can also try beignets at our restaurants who specialize in hearty breakfast and brunch dishes.

St. Landry Parish is filled with amazing artists and makers. With six cultural districts – Deux Bayous in Arnaudville, Eunice, Grand Coteau, Opelousas, Sunset, and Washington – it is impossible to not capture something made with the heart and soul of our residents. The style tends towards bold, stand-out colors in impressionistic, abstract, and whimsical techniques. However, art galleries are just the tip of the artistic brush. From musical instruments, like the frottoir, or musical rubboard, in Sunset, to handmade accordions in Eunice and a master craftsman-trained, fiddle-maker in Arnaudville, our makers are tuned into local musical history.

Two amazing music genres that are internationally recognized, zydeco and Cajun music, originate here. With dedicated fans spanning the world, the music scene is alive and well in St. Landry Parish. It all started with Amédé Ardoin, a statue of whom can be found at the St. Landry Parish Visitor Center in Opelousas. This legendary musician was an accordion virtuoso and early recording artist who laid the foundation for Cajun, Creole and zydeco styles.

The sounds of Ardoin and fiddler Dennis McGee are still available online and his influences can be found in every zydeco or Cajun music song.

Find yourself in St. Landry Parish. Our diverse, natural outdoor areas and wildlife, delectable food scene, galleries and makers, and iconic music culture will keep you entertained in the heart of Acadiana, a world that is “Gumbo for Your Soul.”

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AMERICA THESE TOWNS ARE SERVING UP HOMESTYLE H O S P I TA L I T Y G U A R A N T E E D TO M A K E YO U F E E L W E LC O M E N O M AT T E R W H E R E YO U E N D

UP ON YOUR TOUR.

- AU S T I N, M N -

Left, Girl enjoying the Jay C Hormel Nature Center.

Middle, Kayaking on the Cedar River.

Right, World-Famous SPAM® Museum-where you will be greeted by a SPAM®bassador who can help with any questions about SPAM® and provide delicious recipes.

Relish in dining options galore with nearly 60 restaurants (including almost 20 locations that have SPAM® on the menu) plus a couple of breweries.

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PAM®town, USA aka Austin, Minnesota is located on I-90 about 90 minutes south of Minneapolis/ St. Paul. Visit the World-Famous SPAM® Museum-where you will be greeted by a SPAM®bassador who can help with any questions about SPAM® and provide delicious recipes. Walk through the prairies at the Jay C Hormel Nature Center and learn something new at the Interpretive Center. Come to know the history of Mower County by visiting the Mower County Historical Society, make sure to take a selfie with Buffy the cow! Buy unique gifts and take a look at the art gallery in the Austin Art Works Center. Experience the Historic Paramount Theatre Mini Museum and possibly a show! Learn history of the Hormel Foods founding family at the Hormel Historic Home. Bike over 45 miles of well-kept trails in town and through the countryside then check out the Rydjor Bike Museum and their vast collection of bicycles. Relax down the Cedar River in a canoe or kayak and cast a line. Take time to golf at Meadow Greens. Shop downtown at the various boutiques Austin has to offer. Grab a book that may be written by a local author and enjoy some candy at Sweet Reads.

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After a long day of fun activities, rejuvenate in one of Austin, MN hotels. No matter what adventure is discovered, it will be a SPAM®tastic time in SPAM®azing Austin, Minnesota. To find out more go to AustinMN.com or call 507-4374563 to get your FREE visitors guide.

A Minnesota Must Do: The Tendermaid Challenge The Tendermaid Challenge started almost 20 years ago. The current record is held by Molly Schuyler who consumed 30 burgers, 80 ounces of water, a bag of chips and a malt in 26 minutes on 7/21/16. To beat the record you must eat at least one more burger than the previous record holder and eat or drink everything else they consumed in 30 minutes or less.

Dare you to try the Tendermaid Challenge in Austin, Minnesota!!!

- MARSHALL, MN -

exploring Cultivate your travel comeback by

in Marshall, Minnesota!

Brau Brothers Brewery

Camden State Park

This cool spot In 2013, the Brewery made the move to Marshall, Minnesota. A taproom was added to the brewery, and the additional space allowed them to expand their distribution area. Today they proudly distribute Brau Bros Beer to the upper Midwest, as they continue to build their team, learn as much as they can about beer, and spend time with their fellow beer lovers! Enjoy this firetruck brewery that hosts 15+ taps of beer, complete with glass windows to watch the brewing process!

Hike the Dakota Valley Trail for views of Redwood River Valley. Fish on the Redwood River, a designated trout stream. Take a refreshing dip in the spring-fed swimming pond built by the Veterans Conservation Corps in 1935. Enjoy a sand beach and a bathhouse built from local stone. Bike a single track mountain bike trail or the paved Camden Regional Trail. There are over 15 miles of hiking trails, that follow the Redwood River & Prairie Grassland as well! Camping options abound for the whole family. If camping isn’t your style, the Redwood Lodge is available for rentals to better accommodate you.

9/11 Memorial Park 9/11 Memorial Park commemorates one of the most significant events in our nation's history. The Marshall Fire Department acquired a beam from the rubble of the World Trade Center in New York City and after years of planning, dedicated the beam in Marshall's Memorial Park on 9/11/11. This inspiring memorial celebrates our nation's capacity to survive and overcome adversity and at the same time symbolizes the renewal and resolve of a nation which came together that fateful day.

With this much natural beauty and history, along with 30+ unique restaurants, quaint shops, the art district, and the lovely locals, there’s no question that Marshall should be at the heart of your travel comeback!

To plan your trip, go to visitmarshallmn.com for more information.

CULTIVATING THE BEST EXPERIENCES

YOUR

LL A H S R A M MEBACK CO

V I S I T VISITMARSHALLMN.COM MARSHALL, MN | 507-537-1865

- I D A H O FA L L S, I D -

FA M O U S FOR ITS PROXIMITY TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK

Travelers are surprised to find the diversity of cuisine and dining experiences available in a metro-area of less than 150,000 residents. Whether you’re looking for five-star dining, a great burger, ethnic specialties, authentic chuck wagon dining, or a great local craft beer, Idaho Falls has what you are looking for. Restaurateurs here are passionate about serving amazing food in a friendly and inviting setting. It is no wonder that national park travelers are choosing to stay in Idaho Falls where they enjoy incredible cuisine and hometown hospitality all at affordable prices not found in the parks.

and Grand Teton National Park, visitors from around the world converge on Idaho Falls year-round. Anxious to experience the amazing outdoors, guests are surprised by the wide range of dining opportunities available in a rural farm community.

Consistently ranked as one of America’s top places to live, Idaho Falls is home to amazing restaurants and pubs. The dining scene includes many national chains, but it is the locally owned and operated restaurants that delight visitors all year long.

For families with diverse tastes and ideas of what makes the perfect dinner, Smokin Fins is the choice for you. Smokin Fins is a concept restaurant blending ocean-fresh seafood, sushi, and house-smoked specialties. Their unique menu ranges from ocean fresh seafood and sushi, to house smoked specialties like prime rib or slow smoked pork. Their handheld menu includes their never frozen burgers, chicken, and prime rib sandwiches. From oysters flown in fresh, to 48 hour Nashville Chicken, lobster mac and cheese, or shrimp scampi, Smokin Fins is truly the ultimate surf and turf restaurant. A distinctive menu created by Chef Wiley Earl means Smokin Fins delivers diverse flavors influenced by Asian, Mexican and Northwest cuisines. The combination of great taste and great service is a hit with locals and travelers alike.

To complete an already perfect meal, you will want to check out Smokin Fins specialty drinks. Just like their food, creative flavor combinations are available from the bar. Exciting flavor combinations like their jalapeño cilantro margarita or their signature Smokin’ Gun, which features Fins’ Bourbon Caramel syrup, candied bacon, and smoldering rosemary compliment any meal.

“There is no better way to finish of a leisurely stroll along the Idaho Falls River Walk than to stop by Snow Eagle Brewing & Grill.”

MacKenzie River Pizza is another family favorite from the Rocky Mountain region is. MacKenzie River Pizza originally offered pizza, salads, and sandwiches. Today their menu has grown to over 70 items to choose from. MacKenzie River Pizza has mastered the blend of reasonable price and a relaxed dining experience serving comfort food. Made from scratch items including the freshest ingredients with a local and unique flair. The seasonal Montana huckleberry salad keeps people coming back for more. ` There is no better way to finish of a leisurely stroll along the Idaho Falls River Walk than to stop by Snow Eagle Brewing & Grill. Quench your thirst with one of their great craft beers brewed onsite like their. Try the Cream Ale, Snow Eagle India Pale Ale, or a Beaver Dick Brown Pelt American Brown Ale. Ranked as the 24th fastest growing small brewery in the United States by the Brewers Association in 2018, Snow Eagle Brewing offers so much more than great beers. Snow Eagle Brewing & Grill can satisfy more than just your thirst you will want to check out their menu while relaxing along the river.

Idaho Falls is the perfect destination for your next adventure. To find more about Idaho Falls, go to www.visitidahofalls.com.

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- M A R T I N S B U R G - B E R K E L E Y C O U N T Y, W V -

Bigadventure W H E R E

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eave behind your everyday worries and "Get to the Heart" of West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle, Martinsburg, Berkeley County, WV, where small-town meets big adventure.

Here, you can shop in eclectic stores, browse vibrant farmer's markets, visit the many galleries of amazing artists, and savor a variety of delicious delights.

As the summer season comes to an end and the refreshing breath of fall arrives, opportunities to spend time outdoors abound in Martinsburg and the greater Berkeley County area.

You will find plenty of stunning hiking trails perfect for folks looking to head off the beaten path. Try out the Tuscarora Trail, which is a long spur off of the Appalachian Trail. A large portion of the trail's 33 miles winds through the beautiful 23,000-acre Sleepy Creek Wildlife Management Area, where you'll also encounter Sleepy Creek Lake – a 205-acre impoundment that is nestled among the rolling hills and is the perfect destination for a day on the water. Paddle around in a canoe, kayak, or do a bit of fishing by the lake shores—you may be greeted by one of our local beavers, otters, or soaring bald eagles; you won't be disappointed with the incredible views The fall season means a plethora of fresh vegetables and gourds, and there are plenty of farm-fresh markets in the area.

Stop by Orr's Farm Market for an extensive selection of fresh produce and the option to pick-your-own berries, cherries, and grapes depending on the month. Also stop in at Butlers Farm Market for freshly picked produce, jams, jellies, and fresh-baked pies.

Top right, Golfing on The Woods photo courtesy of WV Tourism

It is your turn to

to get away, relax, and unwind in our beautiful piece of "Almost Heaven."

Challenge yourself on the newest geocaching trail, Berkeley Gadgets, which features 18 gadget caches.

Cap off your outdoor adventure in Berkeley County with a well-earned victory of a delicious meal in Martinsburg's eclectic downtown food scene. Indulge in a spa treatment while you're in town. Visit one of the most famous distilleries to come out of the area—Black Draft Distillery. And before you leave, enjoy the eclectic shopping throughout our downtown corridor.

It is your turn to get away, relax, and unwind in our beautiful piece of "Almost Heaven."

Try several different West Virginia wines at Taylor's Farm Market. Or visit a WV Conservation Farm of the year honoree—Kitchens Farm Market—for fresh produce and local beef.

Berkeley County is also known as a geocaching destination. With more than 57 active caches that have earned nearly 15,000 favorite points, Berkeley County is an unforgettable adventure that offers challenging caches for all experience levels.

Change your view from the office window to the beautiful Fall scenery of Martinsburg, Berkeley County, WV. Plan your custom vacation and outdoor adventures today at TravelWV.com.

The Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB can be reached at 304.264.8801. Try out our free app, "Visit Martinsburg, WV."

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- LIBERAL, KS -

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o Dorothy’s official hometown of Liberal, Kansas, where you can become a part of the “Wizard of Oz” story.

Skip with your Dorothy tour guide as you visit her home, a farmhouse built in 1907, carefully restored and furnished to replicate the house in the movie, reproducing the warmth of the farm where Dorothy realized, "There's no place like home." Then fly into the Land of Oz, 5,000 square feet of good and bad witches, Munchkins, talking trees, winged monkeys, and of course, Dorothy, the Scarecrow, Tin Man, Cowardly Lion and Toto, too.

History buffs will also get a chance to tour Coronado Museum, where the history of Seward County comes alive with displays dating back to Coronado’s travels.

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“Skip with your Dorothy tour guide as you visit her home, a farmhouse built in 1907, carefully restored and furnished to replicate the house in the movie.”

Try your hand at being the pilot at Mid-America Air Museum, one of the largest general aviation museum in Kansas and the nation. Aircraft, flight simulators, hands on exhibits and educational videos make this a place to spend hours learning about all aspects of flight. Dwight Eisenhower’s Air Force One, a Beech Starship, LTV A-70 Corsair II and a 1937 Rearwin Sportster 7000 are a few of the over 100 aircraft you will see.

Come visit anytime but if you come on Fat or Shrove Tuesday, you are in for a treat as you watch the International Pancake Race, a friendly competition with Olney, England, bringing the USA and the United Kingdom together in a symbol of peace and unity. A tradition since 1950, the women of Liberal and Olney square off in a fun, fast-paced race to the finish line carrying skillets complete with pancakes inside. A pancake breakfast, Shriving Service, web chat and parade round out the event.

Summer visitors will find added activities at the Adventure Bay Family Water Park and Arkalon Park.

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Eiffel Tower Park Eiffel Tower Park offers spectacular photo ops with a 70’ tall, lighted Eiffel Tower surrounded by familyfriendly fun. Romp in the new splash pad, blast down crisscrossing slides into an Olympic-size pool or spike a volleyball. Year-round excitement includes a popular playground, disc golf, pickleball/tennis, biking, hiking or wetting a line in the trout pond.

Downtown Paris Downtown Paris delightfully blends two centuries of community history and architecture, with current trends in retail and dining. Experience the enchanting shops, enjoy coffee or a meal served by friendly, hometown entrepreneurs. Afterwards, snap a pic with a whimsical catfish or mural, then cool off at the inviting Fountain Plaza or shady courthouse lawn.

Authentic Eateries Experience a taste of Paris at authentic eateries serving dishes (meals) from mouthwatering catfish to the tastiest BBQ in the region. Feeling more cosmo?

Scrumptious sushi, mai fun, shrimp pasta, hot enchiladas,pizza prepared 100 delicious ways, delectable cocktails and locally-brewed beers await you!

Artistic Flair Paris has an artistic flair! Head downtown where Back Alley Paris murals tell engaging, local history; delightfully decorated dumpsters prove that every surface is a canvas, and Lee Academy for the Arts encourages your creativity (or, has a class for you!). Don’t miss our playfully, painted catfish. Located throughout Paris, they’re jumpin’ at the chance for a photo with you!

TN National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Experience a familyfriendly playdate with Nature at the TN National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, hiking/ birding/biking trails and overlooks or Paris Landing State Park’s birds of prey, trails and more. Knowledgeable marina staff will help you fish the waters of championship anglers on legendary Kentucky Lake. Paddle up close to explore the shoreline, jump the waves till sunset, then relish a goodnight smore at your campsite.

If you need any assistance planning your trip to visit Paris, Tennessee, call the Chamber of Commerce at 731-642-3431 or visit us online at www.paristnchamber.com

MAKE MEMORIES

Outdoors IN PARIS, TENNESSEE

Ramble down to Paris Landing State Park, where the Tennessee River rolls through Kentucky Lake on its way north to the dam. Poke around the campgrounds, marinas and hiking trails, swing a golf club, rent a boat or kayak, or take a swim in our favorite part of this 652-mile river.

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731-642-3431

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- D I S C O V E R N O RT H C A R O L I NA -

Discover The Omni Grove Park Inn

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Spa services book 6-8 weeks in advance. Those who book Spa appointments also receive complementary day-long access to the indoor and outdoor Spa pools and facilities (sauna, steam room, showers, etc.). A limited number of one-day passes are available for hotel guests (sold daily) and they do sell out sometimes based on availability.

Asheville, NC is recognized as having one of the strongest most innovative culinary scenes in the country.

GOLF Framed by the splendor of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the historic Grove Park Inn Golf Club celebrates the spirit of mountain golf. Designed by the legendary Donald Ross in 1926, the 6,055-yard, par-70 course is contoured out of the rolling landscape with tree-lined fairways, challenging bunkers and receptive bent greens. And, the elevated tee boxes assure that you get amazing views with each drive.

The course is considered one of the top golf courses in North Carolina and in 2015 the course was recognized by Golfweek as one of the “Best Resort Courses” and the “Best: State-by-State Courses You Can Play” as well as by Golf.com as one of the “Premier Golf Resorts”. It is also among the top ten courses 100 years or older according to Golf Digest, though it certainly doesn’t show its age. Masterfully restored in 2001, it reflects the glory and spirit of Donald Ross’ original design.

DINING Asheville, NC is recognized as having one of the strongest most innovative culinary scenes in the country. At The Omni Grove Park Inn you will find four of the finest, locally sourced restaurants in town.

• Sunset Terrace features the finest hand cut steaks, premiere chops and fresh seafood. Partnering with local farmers, our chefs and staff are committed to providing you with a truly memorable dining experience as you look out over the mountains. The Sunset Terrace is the iconic spot for dinner in Asheville and is a winner of the 2014 Wine Spectator Award of Excellence. Sunset Terrace is a covered al fresco dining option and is open March through November and as weather permits in the colder months.

• EDISON, craft ales + kitchen is an inventive bar and restaurant that brings together the food culture and local flavors of Asheville, with expansive indoor and outdoor seating and spectacular views of the Mountains. Named for frequent historical visits from Thomas Edison and his "Vagabonds" (Edison, Harvey Firestone and Henry Ford), EDISON serves NC craft beers, small batch bourbons, handcrafted cocktails, and regionally inspired food in a contemporary, fun, and artistic setting.

• Blue Ridge offers celebrated Blue Ridge Artisanal cuisine now featuring a Chef-inspired dine-in experience with attendant service at each food station, while overlooking the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains. Two massive rooms are filled with amazing breakfast options daily. And don’t miss the awardwinning themed dinners with Friday night Seafood and Saturday night Prime Rib. It’s the perfect way to end any week.

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Explore the road less traveled.

Explore the road less traveled to Florida’s Forgotten Coast and experience quiet beaches, wooded trails and quaint fishing villages. Discover towns steeped in history, art and culture and indulge in exceptional cuisine featuring fresh Apalachicola Bay seafood.

Visit Florida’s Forgotten Coast, it’s a journey you’ll never forget.

Enter to win a Forgotten Coast Getaway Visit FloridasForgottenCoast.com/taste Apalachicola . Carrabelle . Eastpoint . St. George Island . Alligator Point