Category: Things To Do

5 Things to Do in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park is, in and of itself, a destination where you don’t really need an agenda other than to see the Park. Most travel guides will say two to four days should be dedicated to your visit here to see all of the magnificent features of the Park. And yes, by all means explore all the soaring highs and valley lows of this jewel in the crown of the U.S. National Park System. What else is there to do in the area? We’ve got a few ideas when you want to take a break from YNP. But, before you plan your trip, make sure you book your glamping accommodation in a cozy cabin or yurt at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.

1. Hit the Small Towns #1: All around the area in this part of California, you can find many small towns that were established during the Gold Rush. One is Twain Harte – named for authors Mark Twain and Bret Harte, who happened to be favorite authors of the wife of one of the mining camp founders. Today, it is a charming mountain town with shops and eateries dotting the streets. The gourmet chef in your glamping group will enjoy browsing The Harte of the Kitchen for specialty cooking items while those looking for unique jewelry and gifts, essential oils, and crystals will enjoy Earthy Essentials. Those looking for unique Instagram shots should take note of the giant root beer mug next to the Rock of Twain Harte pub. With this as the backdrop, followers will know you’re in the “Heart of the Sierras,” as the giant mug denotes.

2. Hit the Small Towns #2: Considered one of the most picturesque historic towns in Gold Country, Angels Camp was founded in 1849 when George Angel established a mining camp here. Today it is known for its charm and the annual Jumping Frog Jubilee (held the third weekend in May to commemorate the short story that launched Mark Twain’s career – The Celebrated Jumping Frog of Calaveras County). The Angels Camp Museum and Carriage House has one of the largest collections of carriages and wagons in the U.S. as well as a Mark Twain exhibit. Viator.com has a fun, and inexpensive, way to get to see the sights of the historic mining town – a self-led scavenger hunt using your iPhone as the guide (to download the map, visit viator.com/tours/California/Lets-Roams-Calaveras-County-Scavenger-Hunt-UnFROGettable-Angels-Camp/d272-104204P78).

2 Llamas


3. Love on Some Llamas: A truly once-in-a-lifetime experience can be had with a visit to Llamas of Circle Home where you can meet 31 llamas at this community and “learn all about the llama universe and their way of living.” Please note reservations are required, so go to experiencellamas.com to reserve a time for your visit. Visitors have said that the brushing, feeding, petting, and just being close to these amazing animals allowed them to realize how kind, gentle, and intelligent llamas are.

Aerial view of cabins at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes


4. Moaning Caverns Adventure Park: This attraction in nearby Vallecito is built around the Moaning Caverns, which were discovered by miners back in 1840, but after cave exploration, it is believed the cave existed, and was used, for thousands of years. It is named because of the moaning sound that came from it. Visitors can take the Spiral Tour down into the cavern via a 144-stair spiral staircase that has 7 ½ spiral turns while descending. Other activities here include a half-day Expedition Crawling and Spelunking Tour of the cavern, plus panning for gems and axe throwing. For more information, visit moaningcaverns.com.

Rock formation


5. Out of the Ordinary: A few not the run-of-the-mill experiences here could include Devil’s Postpile National Monument and the Coursegold Tarantula Exhibit. Devil’s Postpile, which was once part of Yosemite National Park, is an unusual rock formation considered one of the world’s finest examples of columnar basalt. Located in historic Coursegold Village is the Coursegold Tarantula Exhibit which is dedicated to teaching people about the world’s most hairy spider with plenty of creepy displays.

Cabin Interior at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes


Read More:

5 Things to Do in The Florida Keys

Does island hopping appeal to your travel senses? Or, is a great glamping trip that encompasses culture, history, outdoor activity, and a bit of the off-beat what you’re seeking in your next adventure? Whichever way you choose to travel, consider a glamping trip to the Florida Keys complete with a colorful cottage accommodation at Encore Fiesta Key, located on Long Key. Fiesta Key also offers Elite Suites as an option for your stay. The resort itself has plenty of activities and amenities, including a pool, marina and boat dock, horseshoes, fishing opportunities, and a super fun Tiki Bar and Cantina where you can relax and discuss your plans for your Florida Keys experience.

We serve up five ideas here on what to do in the Keys.

1. Visit Molasses Reef: The Molasses Reef Preservation Sanctuary Area is the most visited coral reef in the Upper Keys. It has clear water, plenty of fish to see and plenty of boulder corals. Book a charter through seadwellers.com and be ready to experience an other-worldly adventure which some have equated to swimming in a crystal clear aquarium! You might see nurse sharks, lobsters, shrimp, moray eels, angelfish, and sea turtles to name a few.

2. Spirited Adventures: There are all kinds of places to partake safely in the spirits here. Try some mead at Keys’ Meads on Key Largo. This Florida farm meadery offers hand-crafted mead and other spirits made from honey. At Papa Pilar’s Rum in Key West it’s all about the rum. From distillery tours to cocktail classes, this is a must-do. While there are no tours offered, plenty of fun can be found at Islamorada Brewery & Distillery. A pet-friendly beer garden, a swag shop full of island gear, food and, of course, drinks, plus special events and plenty of live music and games are what you can expect here.

Slice of Key Lime Pie


3. Key Lime Fun: There’s a whole history behind why it’s called a Florida Key Lime, but all we care about is how good the Key Lime Pie (KLP) pie tastes. Get in on the experience and try this tasty treat all around the islands. On Marathon, Keys’ Fisheries has some of the best KLP in the area, plus other yummy seafood. The colorful Key Lime Pie Bakery just off the famous Duval Street in Key West is another option. Also, try Midway Cafe on Islamorada for KLP or a Key Lime Tart. They also have gourmet coffees on the menu.

4. Unique Shopping: From shells to cigars, there are plenty of trinkets to pick up during a visit to The Keys. Shell World on Key Largo is good for well, you know, shells, but there’s plenty more island-related regalia here. The Big Pine Key Flea Market is open every weekend (Saturday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sundays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.) and has everything from homemade soaps to fishing gear, jewelry, and local art. Rain Barrel Village on Islamorada is an outdoor market plaza with several specialty shops and eateries and lots of Florida souvenirs. Plus, there’s a giant lobster out front that makes for a perfect selfie backdrop! For cigars, check out Rodriguez Cigar Factory in Key West, where you can also see them being rolled.

Kayaking in Sunshine Key
Kayaking in Sunshine Key

5. Only in the Keys Experience: There are some things that you just can’t do anywhere else and if you’re in the Florida Keys, here are those experiences:

  • Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s in Islamorada
  • Snap a selfie at the Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S. (Key West)
  • See the underwater statue, St. John of the Abyss, while snorkeling at John Pennekamp State Park. (Key Largo)
  • Visit The Little White House – Florida’s only Presidential museum which was President Harry Truman’s winter home. (Key West)
  • Take a ride on the African Queen (Key Largo)

Read More:

Top 5 Must-Do Experiences in Vibrant Miami, Florida

Just about any travel guide you consult for reasons to visit Miami will include the beaches, the nightlife and, of course, the weather. We know of one great reason for sure – the fabulous glamping accommodations at Encore Miami Everglades that include deluxe lodges and cabins. Plus, this gorgeous and lush tropical getaway is just 30 minutes from Miami, though you feel like you’re in a true nature retreat. So, book a stay at Miami Everglades and check out five more reasons we found to make your Miami getaway a glamping trip to remember.

1. Explore City Beautiful: Coral Gables is less than 20 minutes from Miami and definitely worth a visit. The city’s tree-lined boulevards, Spanish and Mediterranean architecture, and the plentiful historic landmarks make it easy to see why the city is nicknamed “City Beautiful.” Check out the Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, which has a collection of rare tropical plants set on 83 acres. Another interesting must-see when visiting Coral Gables are the “Seven Villages of Coral Gables” which were designed to reflect villages from around the world and include the French Normandy Village, Chinese Village, and Italian Village. Visit bikewalkcoralgables.org for maps of self-guided tours of the Villages as well as the Coral Gables landmarks.

2. Monkey Around: A visit to Monkey Jungle (monkeyjungle.com) provides an opportunity to see several species of monkeys in their natural habitat. Opened in 1935 by animal behaviorist Joseph DuMond, this 30-acre wildlife park is home to over 300 primates. The Rainforest Adventure Tour is a great way to see squirrel monkeys, capuchin monkeys, and more in a rainforest setting.

Cabins at Encore Miami Everglades
Cabins at Encore Miami Everglades

3. Millionaire’s Row: If you want to see how Miami’s rich and famous live, take a guided boat tour of Millionaire’s Row (tourscanner.com or miamionthewater.com). See if you can spot any of the Row’s residents, that include Jennifer Lopez and Shaquille O’Neal, soaking up the sun. Both tours also provide spectacular views of the skyline and Biscayne Bay.

4. Visit Little Havana: Take in the Cuban cultural experience with a visit to Little Havana (which can be reached via Miami’s free trolley service). Calle Ocho is where you can find the locals conversing, playing dominoes and the Paseo de las Estrellas, which is equivalent to the Walk of the Stars, and pays tribute to Cuban, Latin, Hispanic, and African American musicians, actors, and artists with ties to the community. While you’re here, take a Little Havana Food and Cultural tour (available through miamiculinarytours.com) or visit an authentic cigar factory (check out casahabano.net for info on a factory tour).

Night time Cabin at Encore Miami Everglades
Night time Cabin at Encore Miami Everglades

5. Hit the Beach(es): There are more than 15 beaches in Miami and each has a different flair. For example, Oleta River State Park offers a 1,200 foot sandy beach great for swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. South Beach is the most famous with the iconic Ocean Drive backdrop while North Beach is a popular music venue that features the North Beach Bandshell. Crandon Park Beach has a Family Amusement Center and a Nature Center and Haulover Beach is good for kite-flying and picnicking. For more Miami Beach choices, go to visitflorida.com/travel-ideas/articles/best-beaches-of-miami-florida.

Read More:

Sun-Kissed Bliss: Your Guide to Sunny Winter Glamping

Looking for something to do for about 80 days beginning in late December? We’re talking about winter getaways when the snow falls, the temperatures plummet, and the sun takes a bit of a hiatus up north. We’ve got some great warm weather getaways to consider and some advice…book now!

Florida: Plenty of sun here with average daytime temps rarely dipping below 60 degrees and with so many glamping locations, a winter roaming around Florida should be on the agenda. Rent a colorful cottage at Encore Tropical Palms in Kissimmee and enjoy the weather at Kissimmee Lakefront Park with a stroll around the lake. Check out Old Town Kissimmee, which is great for dining, shopping and entertainment or make Kissimmee your home base for the Orlando theme park attractions. Head to the east coast and enjoy Miami with a stay at Encore Miami Everglades, which has great glamping accommodations, and check out Miami’s beaches, culture, and nearby Everglades National Park. Meander down the Overseas Highway and enjoy the Keys from a great tiny house at the Sunshine Key Tiny House Village. Keys’ highlights include snorkeling in Key Largo, taking in the fun of the “Conch Life ” in Key West and sport fishing in Islamorada.

Sunshine Key Tiny House Village
Sunshine Key Tiny House Village

Sedona, Arizona: Snow-capped mountains and warm temperatures? You bet, that’s what a winter trip to Sedona will get you. Plus, all the great outdoor activity to be found and the opportunity to stay in a tiny house at Thousand Trails Verde Valley. It’s warm here, but not too warm since you want to spend plenty of time hiking the Red Rock State Park and discovering all the vortexes and cool rock formations (like Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock). Maybe a Jeep tour (pinkadventuretours.com) or a wine trail tour (vvwinetrail.com). Want to recharge? Check out the suggested Spiritual Healing 3-day itinerary at visitsedona.com, which includes some interesting events like a chakra balancing session, hot stone therapy, and a Jeep tour to the healing vortex sites within Red Rock State Park.

Cabin at Medina Lake RV Campground
Cabin at Medina Lake RV Campground

Texas: Texas winters are typically snowless with mild temperatures and none of the heat and humidity found in a Texas summer. Check out any of our Texas locations and consider some of these winter events: Enjoy the San Antonio River Walk when it’s less crowded and stay at Thousand Trails Medina Lake while also taking in San Antonio attractions like The Alamo or enjoying a guided Mural Ridel on a bike to see over 20 murals painted throughout the city (visitsanantonio.com/location/mural-ride). If you’re into the rodeo, don’t miss the Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, scheduled for January 12 through February 3, 2024. Book a stay at any of these nearby glamping locations: Thousand Trails Bay Landing, Lake Whitney, Lake Tawakoni, and Lake Texoma. The Texas Hill Country has some fun winter wine events including the Wine Lovers Celebration, running January 29 to February 23, where visitors can experience over 40 Texas Hill Country wineries with special events and tastings (texashillcountrywineries.org). Again, Medina Lake is a great spot to camp while enjoying all the fun.

Cabin at Thousand Trails Bay Landing
Cabin at Thousand Trails Bay Landing

Read More:

5 Things to Do in Orlando

Boasting more than 250 days of sunshine each year, a trip to Orlando is an option if you’re seeking the rays. It’s also a favorite spot for thrill-ride lovers, hikers, bikers, birdwatchers, festival-goers, foodies…and the list goes on. In a nutshell, Orlando has something for everyone. Here are five things to see, not including the fabulous glamping accommodations at Encore Tropical Palms or Clermont (reserve now!), if you’re Orlando-bound:

1. Take the International Drive: I-Drive, as it’s known in Orlando, is almost like an all-inclusive destination for everything from food to fun and more. There are outlet malls, plenty of restaurants (check out the Pirate’s Dinner Adventure or Taverna Opa for an authentic Greek experience); attractions such as the Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum and Ripley’s Believe or Not; a chocolate museum (The Chocolate Museum and Cafe); gator shows (Gator Golf); plenty of golf options from mini-golf courses to Top Golf simulators and whole lot more on this one exciting strip. For all the fun on I-Drive, visit internationaldriveorlando.com.

2. Board the Titanic: The Artifact Exhibit: Get a feel for what it was like to be aboard the Titanic (before the iceberg) in an opulent recreation of the ill-fated ship that has more than 300 artifacts, full scale room replicas from the ship, and costumed actors to give you the feeling it’s 1912 all over again. Guided tours are available as well as other options that include the Titanic Gala Dinner and the Titanic Teatime Experience. For information, go to titanicorlando.com.

Elite Cottage at Thousand Trails Orlando
Elite Cottage at Thousand Trails Orlando

3. Be a Spectator: Orlando is home to many sporting teams, and depending on the time of year, you can catch multiple games in a single trip. The Orlando Solar Bears are an NHL affiliate, and the hockey season here begins in October and extends to April; the NBA’s Orlando Magic play their home basketball games at the Amway Center and the regular season runs October to April, and Orlando City is the team for soccer and regular play begins in February. Orlando is also a great homebase to catch Major League Baseball’s spring training games, aka the Grapefruit League, played in several nearby locations including Tampa (NY Yankees) and Lakeland (Detroit Tigers).

4. Enjoy a Festival or Two: Any time of year here, you can find a festival celebrating heritage, music, food and more. Some biggies include Universal’s Mardi Gras (held in late winter each year); EPCOT’s International Food and Wine (July to November annually); and EPCOT’s International Festival of the Holidays (set for November 24 through December 30 this year). To find a festival to coincide with your visit, go to orlandoinsidervacations.com/annual-events-in-orlando-kissimmee.

Sunset at Lake Dora
Sunset at Lake Dora

5. Visit Mount Dora: Just about 40 minutes outside of the popular and populated Orlando, you will find the small-town charmer of Mount Dora. Visitors to this lakefront town (the lake being Lake Dora) will love the historic buildings, shops, green spaces, and authentic southern charm found here. Mount Dora fun fact – Presidents Coolidge and Eisenhower came here for a winter retreat. One fun way to see the historic buildings and the town is to take the one-hour, narrated historic tour aboard the Mount Dora Trolley. There are also opportunities for fishing (Lake Dora); antiquing (Renninger’s); shopping in the historic downtown and browsing modern art (Modernism Museum).

Read More:

Maximize Your Time Off with These Two Long Weekend Getaways

Unfortunately, it is a sad fact that Americans have admitted to taking just roughly 48% of the vacation time offered by their employers. Most likely it’s because when we think of a vacation, we think it requires at least a whole week off. But what about long weekends? Plan a few of those this fall so you can ensure you’re getting what you’re owed when it comes to rest and relaxation away from the workplace. Don’t leave a minute of vacation time unused – check out these long weekend getaways and hit the road!

Cottage at Thousand Trails Palm Springs
Cottage at Thousand Trails Palm Springs

Los Angeles to Palm Springs: If you live in the Los Angeles area, Palm Springs is less than two hours from the city, yet it seems like a world away. Book a colorful cottage stay at Thousand Trails Palm Springs in Palm Desert and get away from it all. Leave your troubles on the ground and explore Palm Springs from the air via the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Actually, the views are fantastic and the roughly 10-minute ride takes you to Mt. San Jacinto State Park. Take your pick of the plentiful hiking trails here, browse the gift shop, check out the Natural History Museum, or take in the views from the observation decks. If you feel the need for a calming environment, check out the Palm Springs Art Museum. The 150,000 square-foot structure alone is worth the trip and the exhibits housed in 28 galleries and two sculpture gardens ice the cake. Check out the current exhibit, Meditations in Glass, which is said to “invite contemplation and stimulate daydream and reverie.” Speaking of glass, don’t miss the glass sculpture, End of Day 2, by Dale Chihuly. If you’re really looking for relaxation, consider taking a sound bath through Integratron (integratron.com). The 60-minute sonic healing session is open to the public (reservations required) and promises deep relaxation, introspection and rejuvenation. See how the rich and famous live here with a 1.5-hour Legends and Icons tour offered via getyourguide.com. And, of course, go to brunch either with your pup at Boozehounds Palm Springs or with a view at Vue Grille and Bar in nearby Indian Wells.

Under six hours – that’s not a bad drive for a long weekend of glamping and exploring the Florida Keys. At the very north end of Florida, Jacksonville charts the longest drive from the big city while Miami is the shorter of the “leave the city behind” drives at just a little over 2 hours. But really, life in the Keys isn’t like any other Florida location or anywhere else for that matter. As the late, great Jimmy Buffett said, “changes in latitude, changes in attitude.” Come to the Keys to regroup, refresh, and live it up a bit after the work-week grind. Book a stay at the Sunshine Key Tiny House Village or book a waterfront colorful cottage at Encore Fiesta Key and get ready to attitude-adjust.

Encore Fiesta Key Resort & Marina
Encore Fiesta Key Resort & Marina

Of course, snorkeling is a great way to leave it all behind and watching the fish swim about is definitely a path to tranquility and calm. Great snorkeling spots include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – with the underwater statue, Christ of the Abyss, as well as the Dry Tortugas National Park. Bahia Honda State Park is another snorkeling option that also has some great photo ops. Take a relaxing sunset dinner cruise from Key West (sunsetwatersportskeywest.com) or aboard a tiki boat out of Key Largo (cruisintikiskeylargo.com). For a relaxing hike, try the Fred C. Manillo Trail in the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key. And another way to relax just may be enjoying a tropical drink, complete with a mini umbrella, in one of the many bars found on Key West. The oldest establishment here is Captain Tony’s Saloon while Sloppy Joe’s might be the most well-known.

Read More:

5 Things to Do in the Monterey Peninsula

Planning a trip to one of the prettiest peninsulas in the country? We’re talking about California’s Monterey Peninsula which has it all – great spots for outdoor fun, interesting cultural and historic sights, some wineries, some beaches, some small town charmers and, of course, Marina Dunes – the ultimate glamping location in the area that offers spacious cottages and brand new yurts! We found five fun things to do if you’re heading there:


1. Get Outside: You don’t visit this breathtaking, sunny, almost-always perfect weather location to stay indoors. Some outdoor adventure ideas include Asilomar State Beach, Elkhorn Slough, and the Path of History. Asilomar State Beach is where you will find the Asilomar Coast Trail, a 3.6 out-and-back trail along the rocky coast which is great for birding as well as viewing marine life and wildflower views. Take a nature safari at Elkhorn Slough and explore one of California’s largest wetlands, which is home to sea otters, harbor sea lions, and over 300 bird species. Tours last 1.5 to 2 hours and can be scheduled at elkhornslough.com. The Path of History is a unique way to learn the history of Monterey. This is a self-guided, roughly two-mile walking tour through the city that highlights historic structures as well as locations of historic events. For a detailed map, visit seemonterey.com. Or, follow the yellow tiles through town!

2. Storybook Homes: A trip to the beautiful Monterey Peninsula can seem to some like a fairy tale come true. What might make it seem even more so is a tour of the Storybook Cottages in the area. Designed by American designer and master builder Hugh Comstock in the 20s, 30s, and 40s, these are one-of-a-kind real life homes that look just like storybook cottages. Roughly 21 of the storybook homes remain in Carmel-by-the-Sea and a visit to the Carmel Visitor Center on Ocean Avenue will get you a map of them. Most of them are private residences so only the outside can be viewed, but The Tuck Box, an English tearoom, and the candy shop, Cottage of Sweets, are open to the public and are found in town.

Storybook Cottage

3. Carmel Valley Wineries: There are many interesting ways to sample the wines of the approximately 20 wineries that make their home in the Carmel Valley. For instance, there is the Carmel-by-the-Sea Wine Walk, a self-guided walking trail (carmelcalifornia.com/carmel-by-the-sea-wine-walk) around the lovely town or there is also the 5-hour, all-in with food and wine private trolley tour offered by toursmonterey.com. If you love the storybook homes, you may enjoy a visit to Folktale Winery and Vineyards, which is committed to 100% organic farming or if you’re looking for a French flair, Joullian Vineyards might do the trick. Georis Winery offers an adobe-style tasting room and the rustic Cowgirl Winery might be good for a gal’s trip tasting!

4. One of a Kinds: There are some experiences that can only be found in Monterey. For example, the Monterey Moon Tree was actually grown from seeds that were taken into space by Apollo 14 Command Module Pilot Stuart Roosa. Roosa wanted to see what the effects of a trip to the moon could potentially have on the seeds. See the results for yourself – the coast redwood, aka The Moon Tree, can be found in Monterey’s Friendly Plaza, a small park near City Hall. Do you like bagpipes? Do you enjoy a good sunset? Combine them both with a one-of-a-kind experience at The Inn at Spanish Bay where each evening, rain or shine, a bagpiper comes to the first tee about 45 minutes before the sunset begins, and then strolls to the second tee and continues to play until the sun is set. Quite a lovely setting.

5. The Steinbeck Center: The National Steinbeck Center is dedicated to the legacy of author John Steinbeck, who was born in Salinas, the seat of Monterey County. The museum has an interesting array of displays depicting Steinbeck’s life and most famous books including The Grapes of Wrath, East of Eden and Cannery Row (steinbeck.org). The Center offers more than just the history of John Steinbeck, but also provides exhibits that detail the agricultural and art history of the area. Another interesting Steinbeck experience could be a tour of his birthplace and boyhood home which is also a restaurant (steinbeckhouse.com).

Read More:

The Ultimate List of Must-Visit Orchards while Glamping this Autumn

September to early October is considered prime apple picking time. Why not combine a glamping trip with a side of apple picking so you can enjoy sweet treats and a sweet time at these great fall locations?

Applecrest Farms is New Hampshire’s oldest and largest apple orchard and it’s less than 10 miles from the Tuxbury Tiny House Village – a great New England glamping option. Apple picking runs mid-August through October and fall raspberries and, of course, pumpkins and gourds are available in September. All kinds of fall events are also on the schedule like the Autumn Equinox Festival (September 23-24) and the Great Pumpkin Carve (October 7-9). For more information, visit applecrest.com.

Tuxbury Tiny House Village
Tuxbury Tiny House Village

Draper Girl Country Farm is perfect for apple picking if you picked the Mt. Hood Tiny House Village as your September glamping destination. Rent a tiny house and check out the Draper Girl Country Farm where majestic Mt. Hood is the backdrop for this fall adventure. Not only do they have u-pick, but the Draper Girls have their own hard cider company. There’s flowers here for purchase and a farm store full of meats, baked goods, produce, and more (drapergirlsfarm.com).

Plan your fall glamping adventure to include a stay at the Tiny House Container Village at Yukon Trails and you’re smack dab in some of the Wisconsin Dells’ best apple picking. Ski-Hi Fruit Farm in Baraboo grows over 30 varieties from Red Delicious (good for eating) to Granny Smith (which are good for cooking). Take a wagon ride through the orchard and learn about the farm’s history (skihifruitfarm.com). The Orchard at Fair Oaks Farms is another option that offers all kinds of good apple picking plus live music on Saturdays (fofarms.com).

Yurts at Thousand Trails Thunderbird
Yurts at Thousand Trails Thunderbird

As the number one apple producing state in the country, of course there are plenty of apple picking opportunities in Washington. Check into a yurt or cabin at Thousand Trails Thunderbird in Monroe and head over to Swan Trail Farms in Snohomish to enjoy some apple picking (they have 4000 apple trees!), corn mazes, and some firsthand apple picking tips from the farmers on site to help you pick properly. There’s also a pre-WWII cider mill that presses apples into delicious cider. Another Snohomish option is Skipley Farm (skipleyfarm.com) offering 520 varieties seasonally. Picnic spots are available if you want to enjoy the farm after picking and then there’s Reggie, the resident pig who’s on hand to find the apple you may drop!

Read More:

Dog Days of Glamping

August is a great time to take that glamping trip with your furry friend because it’s National Dog Month! In fact, dog lovers have been known to call the eighth month of the year “Dogust!” We’ve rounded up some dog-friendly glamping locations with nearby beaches, hikes, and other places that roll out the red carpet for the doggies. And, as always, please keep your pets cool and safe when traveling – don’t leave them in cars, keep in mind how hot pavement can be, and know the signs of heat stroke.

Cabin at Thousand Trails Colorado River
Cabin at Thousand Trails Colorado River

Austin: Austin is a super friendly town, so it’s no wonder the hospitality extends to dogs, as well. Book the pet-friendly glamping cabin at Thousand Trails Colorado River and see for yourself why Austin is on the list of pet-friendly vacation destinations. Lots of places to see with your pet in tow here – for example, Zilker Botanical Garden welcomes leashed pets to stroll the 28 acres of gardens that include the Mabel Davis Rose Garden, the Taniguchi Japanese Garden, and the Hartman Prehistoric Garden with its wonderful waterfalls. For more outdoor fun, head over to Barkin’ Springs, which is literally a water park for pups! The waterhole is great for wading and fun dog-watching as all kinds of canines freely frolic in the water here. Red Bud Isle is another option for outdoor water fun and allows dogs off-leash. Dogs are also welcome at the Barton Creek Farmers Market held on Saturdays in Austin. The list of dog-friendly eateries and breweries is too long to list here, so check out bringfido.com/restaurant/beer/city/austin_tx_us for some options.

Russian River Cabin
Thousand Trails Russian River Cabin

Sonoma, California: Has your pet expressed a desire to explore wine country with you? If a resounding woof is the response, then book a pet-friendly cabin or cottage at Thousand Trails Russian River and take in the beautiful countryside with your pup in tow. Several wineries are welcoming and include Kunde Family Winery, which offers dog-friendly (albeit somewhat strenuous) hikes through the estate; and Mutt Lynch Winery, which was voted “Most Pet Friendly Winery in Sonoma County” by Bay Woof magazine. Check out the monthly “Yappy Hour” here held in the winery’s Hound Lounge! More hiking with your furry pal is an option at Bartholomew Estate Winery, which has a 3-mile hiking trail with shaded paths. After the hike, the dogs are welcome to join you in the tasting room – you taste the wine, they enjoy some complimentary treats. For eats, check out the Sausage Emporium where dogs are welcome on the patio or the outdoor patio at HopMonk Tavern in historic downtown Sonoma.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country: All are welcome in the scenic spot of Pennsylvania. Book a stay at one of the pet-friendly accommodations at Thousand Trails Circle M and hike, shop, and frolic with your loyal companion. The Amish Farm and House welcomes dogs on the house tour and the buggy tour so they can soak up Amish culture and history along with you. Another ride-along would be the Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway which welcomes dogs for the 16-mile ride that offers insight into the area’s coal-mining history (the roughly one-hour ride to the depot is worth it). For outdoor fun, don’t miss Beau’s Dream Dog Park at Buchanan Park in Lancaster. This is a doggie’s dream destination with plenty of open space, a few splash pads, and a tennis ball tree, which launches tennis balls. Dalton’s Doggie Deck, located at the Spring House Brewing Company, is a great place for outdoor relaxation and some cool brews, to boot.

Read More:

3 Great Girls’ Trips

Need a good reason to take a trip with your gal pals? Schedule one for August in recognition of National Girlfriends Day which falls on August 1 giving you the perfect reason to schedule a trip this month! According to nationaltoday.com, Girlfriends Day was created to honor your “ride or die crew” and support women supporting women! A few great spots for such a celebration, according to wearetravelgirls.com, include:

Natchez Trace Tiny House Village
Natchez Trace Tiny House Village


Nashville: Of course, the main reason to come to Nashville is so you can listen to some great music with your besties. But there are plenty more reasons to plan a trip to this charming down south destination. And while shopping, eating, touring grand gardens, and taking photos are not activities limited to the female gender only, for a gal’s trip they sound pretty on target. Shopping in the area can include the city’s 12 South area which is home to great shops like the trendy sunglasses brand Krewe, Reese Witherspoon’s retail foray, Draper James, and the popular jewelry collections by Gorjana. Another option is the Fatherland District which offers a mix of vintage, collectibles, clothing, and home goods. For a garden day, visit the beautiful gardens of Cheekwood, which are set among a sprawling 55-acre historic estate. Chock full of gardens of all kinds that display roses, wildflowers, perennials, herbs, boxwoods, and dogwoods. Cheekwood also has an art gallery and an outdoor sculpture trail (cheekwood.org). From a foodie standpoint, there is plenty to sample. There’s a donut tour (getyourguide.com); a chocolate workshop from the maker of Nashville’s official candy, the Goo Goo Cluster (googoo.com), and a more traditional foodie walking tour available through viator.com that includes southern favorites like hot chicken and buttermilk biscuits. For some of the best backdrops for the girls’ trip photo montage, make sure to hit the many murals found throughout Nashville which can be viewed by a self-guided tour (check out visitmusiccity.com/trip-ideas/nashville-murals for a listing) or through organized tours offered through both viator.com and getyourguide.com. Your home base for all the Nashville fun should be a tiny home at Natchez Trace Tiny House Village, which is conveniently located to some local wineries, as well.

Las Vegas: If you and your girlfriends have always planned a dream trip to Europe, but budgets, timeframes, and other obstacles always come up, why not do the next best thing – head to Las Vegas. Plan a stay in a fabulous glamping cabin at Thousand Trails Las Vegas RV Resort and take in a little bit of Europe stateside. If you head to the Strip, you can take a gondola ride at the Venetian Hotel and pretend you’re in Venice, while the Paris Hotel will allow for Instagram-worthy shots aside replicas of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe (who’s to know where you really are?!?). Want to toss the requisite coins in the Trevi Fountain – take a trip over to Caesar’s Palace to see their version of the famed Roman fountain. For rustic fun, get your cowgirl fix by taking a sunrise or sunset horseback ride complete with either an authentic cowboy-style pancakes and eggs breakfast or a barbeque dinner (check out viator.com for more info). It’s a great way to see the gorgeous desert landscape of the area. Las Vegas also has some interesting museums like the Las Vegas Showgirl Museum or the Neon Boneyard where many of the iconic neon lights of Vegas spend their “retirement.” The Arts District is another fun place to visit with plenty of shops and galleries, cool murals, Brewery Row, and the Burlesque Hall of Fame.

Cabin at Thousand Trails Las Vegas
Cabin at Thousand Trails Las Vegas


Seattle: From the iconic Space Needle to the always-buzzing Pike Place Market, Seattle is a great location for a girl’s trip. Start the fun with a reservation for a glamping cottage or yurt glamping accommodation at Tall Chief and get ready to see the sights with the girls. Of course, all good girlfriend chats are usually done over a cup of coffee and where better than Seattle to find the best cuppa! Check out the Coffee Culture Walking Tour (visit getyourguide.com) or visit the original Starbucks location in Pike Place Market. While the Space Needle is one of Seattle’s most visited attractions and should be on the list, don’t miss the Chihuly Glass and Garden exhibit while visiting this landmark. The imaginative and beautiful glass artwork by Dale Chihuly, a Washington native, is set among several galleries, the botanic garden, and the Glasshouse. If hiking is on the agenda, there are plenty of options. Discovery Park has a 2.8- mile loop with great views of the city skyline. And of course, there’s the Market. Pike Place Market is great for shopping for all kinds of things. As the oldest continuously operating farmers market in the country, there is a lot of shopping to be found here. In addition to the food options, the Market offers arts and crafts and knickknacks of all kinds.

Yurt at Tall Chief Campground
Yurt at Tall Chief Campground

Read More: