Author: Petite Retreats

5 Things to Do in Leavenworth, WA

If you’re heading to the ultra-charming Pacific Northwest city of Leavenworth to get in the holiday spirit, you’re in for a holiday treat. If you’re heading there for outdoor experiences, you’re still in for a treat. To start this wonderful getaway, book a cabin or a tiny house at the Leavenworth Tiny House Village, pack your snow gear and your holiday best and head to the Pacific Northwest! There’s plenty to see and do here, but we picked five things to get you started:

Leavenworth Tiny House Villlage at Christmas
Leavenworth Tiny House Village at Christmastime

1. However you celebrate the holiday season, you have to admit that reindeer, nutcrackers and snow play into any holiday theme and Leavenworth has all of that. The Leavenworth Nutcracker Museum (nutcrackermuseum.com) located in town displays nutcrackers from the 12th and 13th centuries to modern day. After you’ve explored, pick up your own souvenir nutcracker at the Nutcracker Lady Gift Shop. The Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is a great experience as well, but book soon if you’re visiting in December, because they are kinda busy in December doing reindeer stuff! With this interesting experience, you will learn about reindeer and have a chance to feed them and take pics with them. For hours and more info, visit leavenworthreindeerfarm.com.

2. A stroll through downtown Leavenworth during the holiday season will have you thinking you’ve been transported to the set of a holiday movie. Pinch yourself, this beautiful Bavarian-style city is very real, and you can experience the half a million twinkling lights, the carolers, the hot cocoa and even Mr. & Mrs. Claus! On weekends, there are strolling carolers, photos with Santa, and live performances from the Sugar Plums, an award-winning holiday choir, in the town’s gazebo. The Leavenworth Festhalle has a gingerbread house exhibition, Santa costumes from around the world, photo ops and hot cocoa and snacks.

Leavenworth, WA
Leavenworth, WA

3. Outdoor experiences here are as plentiful as the snowflakes that fall annually. Head to Lake Wenatchee State Park that offers over 30 miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, 12 miles of marked snowshoe trails, and a sled hill. For downhill skiing and snowboarding, check out Leavenworth Ski Hill. Other outdoor fun here includes fat biking, sledding and ski hill jumping. For details on Ski Hill, visit skileavenworth.com. Or sit back and let someone else do the work as you explore the outdoors on a sleigh ride – yep, you can dash through the snow in a one-horse open sleigh that accommodates 6 passengers and comes complete with hot cider to be enjoyed around the fire in the barn at the end of your unique sleigh ride. For details and reservations, visit leavenworthsleighrides.com.

4. Knowing your cozy tiny house is waiting for you at the end of the day, a day trip to Seattle can be fun coming and going! In a little over two hours, you can be in the Emerald City and enjoy the attractions including the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, Winter Brilliance at the Chihuly Garden and Glass House, which has a special light and music installation running through February 2025. There’s also the Seattle Christmas Market, which runs through December 24, and has holiday displays, live entertainment and artisan shops to find that perfect holiday gift!

Leavenworth Tiny House Village
Leavenworth Tiny House Village

5. Toast the holidays in a variety of ways with a visit to Leavenworth’s Icicle Brewing Company’s taproom, located on Front Street in the downtown – drop in for Thursday Night Trivia or the special Holiday Market from 5-8 p.m. on Wednesday, December 11. If you want a wine toast, there are several tasting rooms on Front Street including Icicle Ridge Winery and the WooHoo Winery Tasting Room.

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The 12 Ways of Glamping

Everyone has their own ways to kick off the fun of the holidays, but our preferred method is through glamping! Here are 12 places to consider for a holiday season glamp.

1. Bend, Oregon: Book a glamping cottage, cabin or yurt at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver to start. Bend is great for outdoor winter activities like cross country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. You can ice skate at The Pavillion, which even has night skating, or for foodie fun, visit The Podski, which offers a variety of local food trucks and live music.

2. Mt. Hood, Oregon: Another great Pacific Northwest location for snow fun. Of course, a tiny house at the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village is the perfect spot to stay when exploring the great outdoors in Mt. Hood. Don’t miss the historic Timberline Lodge and the iconic Mt. Hood Skibowl, which is great for night skiing.

3. Nashville, Tennessee: The Natchez Trace Tiny House Village is a perfect home base for exploring the sights and sounds of Nashville and the surrounding area. For holiday lights, check out the 10th Annual Holiday LIGHTS at Cheekwood Gardens or Zoolumination at the Nashville Zoo. For an all-out holiday extravaganza head to Gaylord Opryland to experience Christmas at Gaylord Opryland with all kinds of festivities, light displays, ice carvings, holiday treats, gingerbread competitions and more.

Lyla at Natchez Trace Tiny House Village
Lyla at Natchez Trace Tiny House Village

4. Orlando, Florida: The colorful cottages at Encore Tropical Palms are the glamping accommodation to book when planning a trip to the Orlando area during the holiday season. The Magic Kingdom holiday events include EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays (through December 30) while Universal Orlando has Christmas at Hogwarts and Celebrate Grinchmas, and of course all the local downtown areas including Kissimmee and St. Cloud will have festive lights, holiday décor and a variety of holiday events.

5. Palm Springs, California: How about a desert holiday countdown? A sunny cottage at Thousand Trails Palm Springs in Palm Desert puts you in perfect proximity to enjoy the special Holiday Market which is part of the regular Thursday evening VillageFest, Wildlights at the Living Desert (through December 30) and Snowtopia at the Palm Springs Air Museum that will feature 60 tons of real snow, plus Santa and hot cocoa and is scheduled for December 20-22.

6. Monterey, California: A cool yurt at Marina Dunes RV Resort can host you during a holiday getaway to explore California’s Monterey Bay area. Holiday events include Christmas on the Wharf, which runs weekends through December 22 and Ice Skating on the Bay, which features an outdoor ice rink open through January 5.

7. Key West, Florida: Spend several days ringing in the holidays in the sunny Florida Keys and consider these events to get you in the spirit: The Key West Artisan Market (December 15, 22 and 29); the Key West Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tours (evenings through December 23); the Stock Island Holiday Lighted Boat parade on Big Pine Key (December 13) and Boot Key Harbor Christmas Boat Parade on Marathon (December 14). Take your pick from a tiny house at the Sunshine Key Tiny House Village or a colorful cottage at Encore Fiesta Key.

Cottages at Fiesta Key Resort
Cottages at Encore Fiesta Key

8. Lake Tahoe, California: Head to Tahoe Valley Campground and rent a glamping cottage or cabin to enjoy the events at this gorgeous location which include the Northern Lights Festival at Incline Village (through December 25) and the spectacular Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade at Granlibakken Tahoe where skiers illuminate the ski hill with torches followed by the arrival of Santa and his elves.

9. San Diego, California: If holiday parades are your things, consider a getaway to San Diego which has at least 5 different holiday-themed parades running through December including the Gaslamp Pet Parade (December 14) and the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Parade (December 27). Holiday light shows include the All that Jazz Light Show Spectacular on Coronado Island (through January 5) and the Old Town Trolley Holiday Sights and Festive Nights Tour, which runs through December (note: does not run on December 24 and 25). For your accommodation, Thousand Trails Pio Pico in Jamul has you covered with cabins and cottages!

Cabin at Thousand Trails Pio Pico
Cabin at Thousand Trails Pio Pico

10. Miami, Florida: Choose from a variety of glamping accommodations at Encore Miami Everglades and take in the holiday events planned in the area. Night at the Garden, which runs through January 2025, is a neon wonderland at the Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden while Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park, is billed as a “Candyland-inspired spectacle” that features thousands of lights, amusement rides and several immersive installations that promise to provide the perfect backdrop for a photo (through January 5); and Zoo Lights Miami which runs through December 30.

11. Dallas, Texas: Book a glamping cabin at Thousand Trails Bay Landing to be near the holiday fun in the Big D which includes the “12 Days of Christmas” exhibit at the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden; Dallas Zoo Lights (through January 4) and SNOWDAY at Galleria Dallas which is winter wonderland of 20 different holiday-themed rooms, including a 1970s Christmas-themed RV.

Bay Landing RV Campground
Thousand Trails Bay Landing Cabins

12. Yosemite National Park: In addition to the beautiful scenery and the outdoor activity, Yosemite National Park also offers several holiday events including a Gingerbread Workshop (book soon; this event sells out fast) on December 21 or December 23 or ice skating at the Curry Village Rink, with great views of Half Dome and Glacier Point. If you still have gifts to buy, consider something from the Ansel Adams Gallery which offers several gift collections. Book a yurt at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes and you’re less than 15 minutes from the Park’s entrance.

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Glamping Holiday Style: Must-Have Items to Boost Your Festive Spirit

If you plan on spending your holidays glamping, make sure you bring plenty of holiday spirit with you. Some easily transported décor includes:

Tabletop Trees: Balsam Hill offers an elegant 17” crystal and pearl tabletop tree or a more traditional 36” frosted alpine tabletop tree (visit balmsamhill.com for details) and target.com has everything from ceramic to Sisal bottle brush style when it comes to tabletop trees.

String Lights: Light up your glamping accommodation with festival lights and of course, Amazon has every imaginable holiday-themed string lights available including snowflakes, a mix of gingerbread men and candy canes, the Grinch and his faithful companion Max, pinecones and berries, and one that has Santa with snowflakes and Christmas trees. Visit amazon.com to get details on pricing and availability.

Holiday decorated cottage at Encore Tropical Palms
Holiday decorated cottage at Encore Tropical Palms

Inflatable Décor: Think about it – they take up very little space but when fully inflated provide quite the holiday punch! Five Below has a polar bear and a penguin for $5 each that inflate to four feet; Amazon.com has a 3-pack of inflatable Christmas trees that are also coolers for under $45; and Temu.com has a variety of inflatable round ornaments in several colors and styles.

Greenery, Pinecones and Candles: A simple swag of garland and a hurricane candle or decorative bowl filled with pinecones can be the perfect touch, while a wreath can welcome everyone to your glamping getaway. A display of LED-candles is always good for holiday décor too!

Holiday decorated cabin at Encore Bulow
Holiday decorated cabin at Encore Bulow

Bells: A simple string of bells can ring in the season and keep you in the spirit of the holiday – remember, every time a bell rings an angel gets his wings! Amazon.com has a variety of bells from vintage and rustic to the traditional silver and gold!

DIY Snow Globes: Pre-trip, gather several different sized small jam or jelly jars (baby food containers work well too) and host a DIY craft night when glamping. Aside from the jars, you need water, glycerin, glitter and some small, festive figurines. Glue the figures to the jar lid, fill the jar with water and a dash of glycerin, tightly cover the jar with the lid (after the glue has dried), give it a shake and voila, instant holiday keepsakes!

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5 Things to Do in San Francisco, CA

San Francisco is a great place to visit whether for a few days or an extended stay. There is so much to see and do here from all standpoints – cultural, historic, foodie and outdoor adventures. It’s got the bridge, it’s got the bay, it’s got woodlands and mountains, and landmarks and live entertainment. Come find out your favorite thing about The City by the Bay. A glamping stay at Marina Dunes RV Park s perfect for your day trips to explore San Francisco.

Glamping Yurts at Marina Dunes RV Park
Glamping Yurts at Marina Dunes RV Park

1. Do the Rock: The Rock, also known as Alcatraz or Alcatraz Island, served as a federal prison for 29 years and saw the likes of some pretty serious criminals including famed gangster, Al Capone. The island is now a California Historic Landmark and tours of the prison are available daily, including in the evening. Check out alcatrazislandtickets.com for details.

2. Do the Stairs: Of course, a hilly city like San Francisco has a lot of staircases but there are two that are of special note. The 16th Avenue Staircase, located in a residential neighborhood, is a colorful set of 163 mosaic tiled stairs that lead climbers to an extraordinary view of the city. Over on Lombard Street, considered the “crookedest street in the world”, each side of the street has a staircase consisting of 250 stairs – again worth the steep climb for fantastic views.

Aerial straight down over Lombard Street with cars and road running horizontally
Lombard Street – San Francisco, CA

3. Do Something Groovy: You may remember the Summer of Love, or heard about it from “older” folks, but San Francisco was the epicenter of this social phenomenon that occurred in the summer of 1967. Visit some of the sites that were the place to be that summer, including Golden Gate Park where the Human Be-In took place and is now home to numerous gardens, windmills and two museums; and Haight-Ashbury, the neighborhood that was home to the Grateful Dead (the house at 710 Ashbury is privately owned but pics of the outside of this lovely Victorian are possible) and many other rockers from the day. The neighborhood has plenty of shops, vintage boutiques and eateries to enjoy too!

Glamping Cottage at Marina Dunes RV Park
Glamping Cottage at Marina Dunes RV Park

4. Do the Woods: Muir Woods National Monument is 558-acres of towering old-growth redwood trees and one of the last remaining ancient redwood forests in the Bay Area. While everything here is simply awe-inspiring, don’t miss Bohemian Grove and Cathedral Grove. Fun fact – parts of Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi were shot in Cathedral Grove.

5. Do Iconic SF: Must-sees and Must-dos when visiting San Francisco include crossing the Golden Gate Bridge, riding a cable car down Powell Street, Fisherman’s Wharf with its adorable sea lions on the wharf’s Pier 39, Chinatown, which is the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, and enjoying a signature cocktail at The Top of the Mark, the penthouse level bar of the Mark Hopkins hotel that offers 360-degree views of the city.

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Best Locations for Enjoying National Take a Hike Day

Since 1976, the third Thursday in November has been recognized as National Take a Hike Day. It was created “to encourage people to connect with nature and recognize the physical and mental benefits of hiking.” Of course, we don’t need a special day to remind us about the benefits of activity, especially activity experienced outdoors, among nature, but we’d like to highlight some places good for hiking if you’re looking for somewhere near to your glamping spot this November. And did you know that the word hike means “a long walk, especially in the country or wilderness.” Here are a few options to “go take a hike!”


If you’re glamping in a glamping cabin or cottage at Thousand Trails Pio Pico, you can enjoy one of several hiking options in San Diego’s Sunset Cliffs Natural Park. The trail is mostly flat, and the all-in 3-mile hike is not necessarily challenging deemed one of best hikes in San Diego thanks to the views of natural cliff formations and coastal arches.

Thousand Trails Pio Pico
Thousand Trails Pio Pico

Did you know there are roughly 120 miles of trails within the city limits of Seattle? Reserve a yurt or glamping cottage at Tall Chief Campground and head over to Discovery Park that offers 12 miles of trails within a 534-acre forest. A recommended hike is the shorter 2.8-mile Washington Trails Association Loop that takes hikers through dense forested areas as well as open meadows and offers great views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains.

Yurt at Tall Chief Campground
Yurt at Tall Chief Campground

Plan to hike among the beautiful red rocks in Sedona and check out some of the most popular, and photo worthy, hikes found here. Devil’s Bridge is a 2.2-mile out and back with stunning photo ops; Cathedral Rock, probably the most photo worthy, but you have to work for it since despite the shorter distance there is an elevation change of over 700 feet. Book a stay at a tiny house in Thousand Trails Verde Valley to enjoy hiking here.

Tiny Houses at Thousand Trails Verde Valley
Tiny Houses at Thousand Trails Verde Valley

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Unique and Tasty Celebrations to Add to Your Calendar

Whether you’re heading there this month or planning a trip for another time of year, these destinations are always brimming with charm, offering unforgettable experiences and local flair year-round!

November 1: Celebrate famous American authors like Ernest Hemingway and John Steinbeck on National Author’s Day or anytime you’re glamping in the area of two of America’s most treasured writers. To learn about the life of John Steinbeck, who wrote classics including Cannery Row and East of Eden, book a glamping tent at Marina Dunes RV Park and visit the National Steinbeck Center in nearby Salinas. Or find out some interesting things about the man who wrote the timeless novels like A Farewell to Arms and The Old Man and the Sea and explore the Hemingway Home and Museum in Key West (book a stay at either Encore Sunshine Key or Encore Fiesta Key).

Sunshine Key Tiny House Village
Sunshine Key Tiny House Village

November 5: It’s National Donut Day – on this day or any other day you prefer, check out the donuts at Fox’s Donut Den in Nashville (glamp at Natchez Trace Tiny House Village) or Donnie’s Donuts in Daytona, Florida (glamp at Encore Sunshine Holiday Daytona). Both were named to USA Today’s list of the 10 Best Donut Shops, coming in at #3 and #2, respectively.

Natchez Trace Tiny House Village
Natchez Trace Tiny House Village

November 10: I scream, you scream, we all scream because it’s National Sundae Day. According to Food & Wine, some of the best ice cream shops in the US include Molly Moon’s Ice Cream in Seattle; Fat Cat Creamery in Houston; and Screamin’ Mimi’s in Sebastopol, California. For nearby glamping, check out Tall Chief Campground (near Seattle); Thousand Trails Lake Conroe (near Houston); and Thousand Trails Russian River (near Sebastopol).

Cabins at Thousand Trails Lake Conroe
Cabins at Thousand Trails Lake Conroe

November 17: National Baklava Day was created to honor this tasty pastry of Greek and Turkish origins made with phyllo dough, chopped nuts, and honey. If you’re glamping down in the Florida Keys (Encore Fiesta Key or Encore Sunshine Key), head to The Baklava in Key West whose name says it all!

November 18: Mickey Mouse turns 96 this year! So, head out to your favorite Disney location and celebrate the life of the amazing Michael Theodore Mouse (yep, real name) who first appeared to the American public in the animated short, “Steamboat Willie” which premiered on this date in 1928. Choose to celebrate our favorite big-eared rodent at Florida’s Disney World (stay at Encore Tropical Palms in Kissimmee) or Disneyland (stay at Thousand Trails Wilderness Lakes).

Cottages at Encore Tropical Palms
Cottages at Encore Tropical Palms

November 27: It’s Small Brewery Sunday so raise and glass and check out some of the best small breweries near your glamping adventure. California’s Russian River Brewing Company (stay at Thousand Trails Russian River) or Deschutes in Bend, Oregon (stay at Thousand Trails Bend-Sunriver).

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5 Things to Do in Sedona, AZ

Sedona is a perfect destination for one, two or more than a few. The things to do here can range from solitary hikes and spiritual vortex visits to off-road Jeep group tours, all-in yoga sessions and a lot of shopping opportunities. The weather is nearly always perfect here with average daytime highs of 82 and very low rainfall. The backdrop of the Red Rock State Park makes for perfect Instagram shares and menus here offer fresh fish to locally grown fruits and vegetables for the selective foodie! Consider a food tour to get to know the history and culture of the area and then for something different, consider these 5 things to do and book your stay at Thousand Trails Verde Valley:

Cabin at Thousand Trails Verde Valley
Cabin at Thousand Trails Verde Valley

1. Oak Creek Canyon: Located in the Coconino National Forest, Oak Creek Canyon offers all kinds of activities from hiking to fishing, plus a scenic 14-mile drive. Soaring cliffs and deep canyons plus acres of wooded wonderland make this a destination for hikers, photographers, and picnickers alike.

Hiking in Sedona, AZ
Hiking in Sedona, AZ

2. Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park: Peace-seekers as well as the curious will enjoy a visit to this spiritual oasis. A stupa is a Buddhist architectural structure that is used as a place of meditation. Come here to see the two stupas and just enjoy the serene feeling the park offers. The mountain views are also amazing as the park sits at the base of Thunder Mountain and a don’t-miss is the giant wooden sculpture of Siddhartha.

Chapel of the Holy Cross
Chapel of the Holy Cross

3. Chapel of the Holy Cross: Considered one of the must-sees when visiting Sedona, the Chapel of the Holy Cross is an architectural wonder built by a student of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Completed in 1956, it sits atop a red rock formation between two natural spires. It is one of the most visited attractions in Sedona and can be reached via hiking or drive.

4. Verde Canyon Railroad: Sit back and enjoy the 4-hour train ride as the history of the area unfolds on your journey aboard the Verde Canyon Railroad. You’ll travel through the Verde Canyon and along the Verde River on a trip that promises amazing glimpses of wildlife and landscape. The train staff provides the history of the area through stories and historical facts about the area. For information visit verdecanyonrr.com.

5. Festivals: If you’re visiting in October, take note of the Fall Festival at the Verde Valley Fairgrounds (October 25-26). The Fall Festival will feature arts and crafts, a family rodeo, an art show and a scarecrow contest among other fall fun. Or plan ahead for these annual events: Sedona St. Patricks’ Day Parade (March 15, 2025); Sedona Yoga Festival (May 1-4) or Sedona’s Cinco de Mayo Celebration set for May 5.

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Winter Glamping Ideas for the Sun or Snow

The decision you make when it comes to your winter glamping depends on how you like to spend your winters. Will it be relaxing in the sun or enjoying the snow?

Winter at Mt. Hood Tiny House Village
Winter at Mt. Hood Tiny House Village

On the snowy side, options could include Washington’s Thousand Trails Leavenworth, Oregon’s Mt. Hood Village Resort, and Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes in California. Leavenworth averages 89 inches of snowfall per winter so there’s no end to the white stuff for snowmobiling, skiing, sledding and snowboarding. Or maybe try something new like snowshoeing or Nordic skiing. The Bavarian-style village is even more quaint in winter with snow-capped backdrops and shopping, dining and winery options as well. A cozy tiny house at Leavenworth Tiny House Village is the perfect glamping accommodation for this trip. Yosemite National Park in winter offers the Badger Pass Ski Area for both downhill and cross-country skiing while hiking is an option on the many trails in Yosemite Valley. Grab a group and choose a spacious yurt or bunkhouse for your winter getaway at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes or a cozy glamping cabin for two. Pick one of the adorably decorated and super-trendy tiny houses at Mt. Hood Tiny House Village and explore the Mt. Hood area and all there is to do here in winter thanks to the five ski areas available. Check out historic Timberline Lodge and Ski Area for downhill, snowboarding and more “shushy” fun or try something really unique with the Cosmic Tubing offered on weekend evenings at the Mt. Hood Skibowl or a moonlight snowshoe tour offered through the Timberline.


If fun in the sun is on the agenda this winter, visit the Florida Keys where fun in the sun is an everyday event. Rent a colorful glamping cottage at Encore Fiesta Key (located on the Keys’ Long Key) and island-hop for a full Keys experience. Of course, no visit to The Keys is complete without checking out Key West – the storied island known for its six-toed cats, Hemingway history and Key Lime Pie! Then there is Key Largo; home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the underwater wonder, Christ of the Abyss, the bronze sculpture that protects divers as well as memorializes those lost. There is Islamorada, often said to be the prettiest key thanks to its white sand beaches, or the Dry Tortugas with its 18th century fort and amazing coral reefs.

Cabin at Encore Miami Everglades
Cabin at Encore Miami Everglades

Staying in Florida but heading to the mainland, a winter getaway could include Miami with a stay at Encore Miami Everglades and check out Miami highlights including the Miami Zoo, the Wynwood Walls, a series of colorful street murals, kayaking in Oleta River State Park and of course, Everglades National Park.

Dunes at Marina Dunes RV Resort
Dunes at Marina Dunes RV Resort

If you’re craving sand in the winter, as well as the sun, head to California’s Marina Dunes RV Resort. With its proximity to Carmel and Monterey, you’ll be close to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, historic Cannery Row, the scenic 17-Mile Drive and beautiful Big Sur. For that sand experience, walk the beach along the dunes here.

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Top Fall Destinations to Visit This Season

Whether you’re a leaf peeper, a cool weather hiker or fall-festival goer, traveling in fall has so many pluses. Lots of places are less crowded, most of the US is enjoying moderate weather (think sweater weather, if you will) and of course the fall colors are in bloom, even in Florida! According to US News and World and Travel + Leisure, these are some of the best places to head this fall:

Cabins at Thousand Trails Sturbridge
Cabins at Thousand Trails Sturbridge

The Berkshires: While Thousand Trails Sturbridge is not technically in The Berkshires, it’s close enough that your glamping cottage accommodation here is the perfect home base when exploring this part of New England. And of course, the driving in the area is going to be as picture perfect as a postcard. There are also plenty of biking and hiking trails, farm stands, and scenic drive opportunities. The town of Sturbridge hosts a Harvest Festival on the town common each year with crafters, artisans, specialty food vendors and farm fresh items on hand.

Cottage at Pacific Dunes Ranch
Cottage at Pacific Dunes Ranch

Santa Barbara: Any time of year sounds good for a trip to this beautiful California destination, but according to Travel + Leisure, fall is great thanks to the weather and the wineries! From farmers markets with an abundance of fall’s best to a variety of events, Santa Barbara is hopping this time of year. One worthwhile event is the Boo at the Zoo October 18-27 hosted by the Santa Barbara Zoo. Pick up a pumpkin to decorate (two patch options include Lane Farms and Big Wave Dave’s), tour the local wineries or enjoy the Urban Wine Trail which is comprised of the tasting rooms located within the downtown SB area. Book a cottage at Pacific Dunes Ranch and enjoy day trips to “America’s Riviera” this autumn.

Thousand Trails Palm Springs Cottage
Thousand Trails Palm Springs Cottage

Palm Springs: When it comes to fall getaways, Palm Springs offers a unique blend of stunning desert landscapes and vibrant seasonal events. Nestled against the backdrop of the San Jacinto Mountains, Thousand Trails Palm Springs provides the perfect home base for exploring this desert gem. Enjoy the warm days and cooler evenings as you hike through picturesque trails in the nearby Coachella Valley Preserve, where the desert flora puts on a dazzling display. Don’t miss the chance to experience the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which offers breathtaking views and a chance to see the fall foliage from above. After a day of adventure, unwind at one of the resorts’ inviting pools or soak in the spa, surrounded by the stunning desert vistas. Whether you’re savoring local cuisine in downtown Palm Springs or enjoying a leisurely stroll through the vibrant art scene, this destination is a true autumn escape unlike any other!


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5 Things to Do in Kissimmee, Florida

What do you get when you combine a colorful glamping cottage, proximity to major theme parks, and plenty of Florida sunshine? Sounds like the perfect glamping adventure to Encore Tropical Palms in Kissimmee is the result! Kissimmee, once a cowboy town thanks to the more than 300 cattle farms and ranches that were here in the early 1900s, is now a central Florida attraction for several other reasons. We’ve listed five here. And before you get started on your Central Florida adventure, don’t forget to book a colorful glamping cottage at Encore Tropical Palms.

1. Go Downtown: There are three great options to enjoy downtown experiences – Downtown Kissimmee, Downtown Orlando and Downtown St. Cloud. Downtown Orlando has a unique Instagram experience via its nine contemporary art sculptures scattered throughout the town for photo ops. There are also several outdoor murals to check out. A Downtown Kissimmee must-see would be the Monument of States which was compiled from rocks sent from around the world after the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor to show unity with the United States. Downtown Kissimmee is also the largest independently owned restaurant district in Central Florida so there are plenty of eateries to enjoy. If you want to learn the history of St. Cloud, simply follow the mural walls which depict the town’s history. Downtown St. Cloud also offers culinary bike tours, several restaurants and shops and the scenic Lakefront Park.

Downtown Kissimmee, FL
Downtown Kissimmee, FL

2. Go to Disney: Of course, you should go to Disney, but the one we’re suggesting won’t have rides and attractions. Instead, it will feature over 1000 species of plants and animals as well as forests, grasslands and wetlands. The Disney Wilderness Preserve features all this plus hiking trails and the 540-acre Lake Russell set on more than 12,000 acres managed by the Nature Conservancy. The Preserve is open Monday through Saturday from 9 to 4:30 p.m.

3. Not the Usual: If you tell someone you’re headed to the Kissimmee/Orlando area for vacay, the expectation is you’re going to the theme parks. Try something different this trip and see something unique. One such “something different” is Gatorland. This attraction of course has plenty of alligators as well as a petting zoo, an aviary, several animal shows, and 1200 feet of ziplines soaring over—you guessed it—alligators. Then there’s Wallaby Ranch which has nothing to do with wallabies but instead offers hang-gliding adventures over Kissimmee.

Cottages at Encore Tropical Palms
Cottages at Encore Tropical Palms

4. Fall Fun at the Theme Parks: Fall events at the big theme parks include SeaWorld Spooktacular (September 12-October 31); EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (through November 23), and Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando (select nights through November.)

5. Museums: There are all kinds of museums in the area from art to history. Art museums include The Orlando Museum of Art and the Mennello Museum of American Art; history museum options can include the Museum of Military History and the Lake Wales History Museum.

Encore Tropical Palms RV Resort
Encore Tropical Palms RV Resort

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