Embark on the Neches River Rendezvous

The season’s centerpiece is the Neches River Rendezvous, an annual affair that beckons adventurers to paddle through the heart of the Piney Woods. This tranquil sojourn along the Neches River is a celebration of Lufkin’s pristine ecosystems and the simple joy of connecting with nature. With each stroke of the paddle, the waterway unfurls its treasures, from hidden coves to sun-dappled banks teeming with East Texas wildlife. If you want more information or would like to give it a paddle, visit Angelina Neches River Authorities at www.anra.org

A Symphony of Flavors

As the landscape reawakens, so does Lufkin’s local gastronomy. Spring heralds the arrival of vibrant farmer’s markets where the earth’s bounty is a palette for the senses. Here, culinary artisans transform fresh, local ingredients into masterpieces of flavor. The town’s eateries and breweries, like the charming downtown bistros and the rustic Rusty Axe & South First Grill , offer menus infused with the zest of the season.

Cultural Blossoms

Lufkin’s rich cultural fabric comes alive in the springtime. The town’s galleries and studios throw open their doors, inviting art enthusiasts to explore the local creativity that thrives under Lufkin’s canopy. The sounds of music festivals and live performances resonate through the streets, where the traditions of East Texas are celebrated and shared.

Family Escapades

Families find a special welcome in Lufkin, where the Ellen Trout Zoo and expansive city parks offer endless opportunities for discovery and play. Special events cater to the curious minds of young explorers, while interactive exhibits at the Naranjo Museum of Natural History offer a journey through time.

Spring Fest

SpringFest in Lufkin is the epitome of springtime joy, where the community and visitors alike come together to celebrate the season’s vibrant rebirth. Wander among stalls of local artisans and indulge in the region’s freshest flavors, while live music fills the air. It’s a place where kids laugh in bounce houses, and all can revel in the beauty of East Texas’s Piney Woods. Join us for a day of fun, food, and festivity at Lufkin’s SpringFest – where every moment is a memory in the making.

Adventure in the Heart of Lufkin

Lufkin’s essence is captured in the moments of connection—between people, nature, and history. It’s in the thrill of the river, the taste of a new dish, the applause at SpringFest, and the quiet reflection that can be formed from the “Locked With Love” tree. Adventure is not just an activity; it’s the heartbeat of Lufkin in spring.

So, come to Lufkin where “Adventure is Here” is not just a tagline—it’s a lived experience. It’s the laughter of children as they dance under the spring sun, the shared glances of couples strolling down blooming pathways, and the camaraderie of friends toasting to new discoveries. This spring, let Lufkin be your canvas for adventure, painting memories that will last a lifetime.

Plan your trip at VisitLufkin.com

The post Discover Lufkin, Texas in the Spring appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

THE KITCHEN BAR AT CHEF & THE FARMER

In 2006, Chef & the Farmer helped create the farm-to-table movement which quickly spread across the country with fervor. For more than 15 years, Chef & the Farmer was the flagship of the movement.

In 2023, Chef & the Farmer reinvented itself as The Kitchen Bar, under the leadership of Chef Vivian Howard. Howard’s vision for Chef & The Farmer’s new methodology is to create an intimate experience one weekend a month. If you are lucky enough to get a table, Howard cooks the meal herself and 14 patrons get to experience a 7-course dinner and optional wine pairings, served right at the kitchen bar. The dedication to creating this experience is backed by Howard’s drive to locally source vegetables and meats, and a desire to interact with her patrons one-on-one.

KINGS BARBECUE

A legacy has been built here. King’s takes the same old fashion flavor perfected in 1936, and brings it into the present, right onto your plate. Picture this: Tender, pork barbecue painstakingly hand-chopped daily and slathered in our secret family sauce.

You can taste the family recipes and traditional Southern cooking methods in every morsel of their signature vinegar-based chopped pulled pork and Ribs. How good is it exactly? Well, King’s BBQ ribs were voted best in the country on the Drew Barrymore Show’s Battle of the Bites. So, nations’ best is pretty good.

SOCIAL HOUSE VODKA & PUMPHOUSE 1906

Social House Vodka is the place for vodka. It’s here that Social House has converted an old power station into a farm-to-flask distillery. Made in Kinston, this corn-based vodka is all locally sourced from North Carolina farmers. Their craft spirits are premiere in their flavor and presentation. Offering distillery tours by appointment, you can see the process of how Social House creates liquid gold from grain. The corn gives the Vodka a sweet, buttery, soft, subtle note suitable for sipping on the rocks or mixing into cocktails.

You can taste those cocktails at the PumpHouse 1906. The local speakeasy is owned and operated by Social House and it showcases small batch collections of craft spirits, infusions, syrups, and bitters. No one cocktail is quite like the other. Choose from their extensive menu options or ask one of their mixology specialists to create something special for you.
When you’re in Kinston, every meal has meaning. It’s about the experience of sitting at the table with friends and family. It’s about the sustainable practices that go into every sip. It’s about supporting local farmers. It’s about a culinary experience that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s not just food, but it’s memories. It’s not just southern, it’s southern with a kick. Consider yourself invited.•

Plan your trip today at VisitKinston.com

The post A Taste of Kinston, North Carolina appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Nestled along the shoreline, this charming region boasts a treasure trove of upscale restaurants that blend local flavors with a touch of sophistication. From charming waterfront eateries to hidden gems tucked away in historic towns, the Shores & Islands Ohio dining scene promises a delectable experience for discerning palates. Explore these culinary gems that elevate dining to an art form.

Celebrating 10 years of bringing “big city dining to a small town” in 2024, Ørchard Bar & Table at Catawba recently debuted major renovations and an expansion project. The new-and-improved restaurant offers a luxe and inviting atmosphere with a combination of indoor soft seating, traditional dining tables, bar seating, and a gorgeous expanded patio, in season. In addition to the intimate and more formal main dining room, consider watching chef’s preparations at the all-new sushi and raw bar. The dining concept offers prime steaks, fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a large selection of wine in an elevated, warm and welcoming space.

1812 Food & Spirits features fine dining but casual dress. Named for the region’s history and close association with the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie, 1812 Food & Spirits offers an upscale dining experience featuring local favorites like Lake Erie yellow perch and walleye as well as other culinary treats. The rich menu also includes steaks, ribs, chops, seafood, pastas, and homemade desserts.

Bay Harbor Waterfront Restaurant in Shores & Islands

Bay Harbor Waterfront Restaurant is located at the Cedar Point Marina, offering water views and sitting in the shadow of some of the world’s most amazing roller coasters. This casually-elegant eatery features fresh seafood, delicious pasta, and prime rib. Outdoor eating on the patio is available in season, but the restaurant is open year-round. Come by lake or land for a romantic dinner or casual get together with friends.

Get dressed up for a fancy night out at Chez François, a French gem along the Vermilion River. The main indoor dining room does require jackets for men and a refined dress code. This elegant dining experience comes with top-rated food and service. Regularly one of the top restaurants in the region, Chez François features a highly-rated wine list and delicious French cuisine, fit for a special occasion. Their other onsite venues, Riverfront Café and Touché Wine and Martini Bar feature a more casual dress and atmosphere.

A more casual choice is Crush Wine Bar, offering both small plates and entrees with an extensive wine menu. Crush is known for its sushi and raw bar items, as well as a number of sharable dishes, pizzas, pastas, steaks, and chops. During the warmer months, the outdoor patio offers a casual place to enjoy an evening in downtown Sandusky.

Gideon Owen Wine Company

For more than 150 years, there has been a winery steeped in history and style on the Catawba Island peninsula. Now known as Gideon Owen Wine Company (formerly Mon Ami), this premier food and wine destination is the perfect fusion of old-world charm, innovative design, and immersive experiences. Offering a formal dining room as well as a more casual patio and a wine bar, Gideon Owen serves lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Visit for one of many special events, including live entertainment and wine cellar tours, or plan your own special event! Dinner menu includes elevated entrees featuring seafood, steaks, and pastas, all enjoyable with a glass of local wine!

Looking for an upscale island dining experience? Enter The Goat, Soup & Whisky which offers casual fine dining with a farm-to-table focus. It’s large eclectic menu features foods created with and utilizing herbs from the onsite garden. Not only does this eatery present a nice wine list, but they also boast an outdoor Austrian/German Biergarten, open seasonally.

Another downtown Sandusky option for a fantastic night out with a delicious meal is J Bistro, a fine-dining restaurant offering steak, seafood, and pasta with a large wine selection, homemade desserts, and both indoor and patio seating.

Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts offers a beautiful resort property with a number of amenities and dining options, where they definitely don’t offer typical hotel restaurant fare. The Miller’s Table is an experience, dedicated to sourcing the best sustainable and local Ohio ingredients and bringing them fresh to your table. It’s obvious in the rotating menu and your unforgettable meal. Hand-crafted cocktails from the full-service bar will complement your meal. The best part is you do not have to be an overnight resort guest to enjoy this experience, but upscale stays are always available for a memorable getaway.

These culinary delights are perfect when you are looking to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a night on the town. Which of these Shores & Islands Ohio upscale dining experiences will you try first? Get more information and order your Play + Stay Guide at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

The post Discovering Upscale Flavors in Shores & Islands Ohio appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Exchange the humdrum of city life for the serenity of a luxurious cabin nestled amidst the whispering pines. Imagine crackling fireplaces casting warm glows on evenings spent with loved ones, mugs of hot cider in your hands as you gaze at star-studded skies. Ellijay’s upscale cabins offer more than just creature comforts; they are sanctuaries where time slows down, and nature’s symphony lulls you into a state of blissful repose.

The rolling hills of Ellijay cradle not just majestic mountains but also a flourishing wine industry. As the winter chill wanes, the vineyards burst into life with the promise of a bountiful harvest. Embark on a vineyard adventure, sampling the award-winning creations of local wineries.

Ellijay’s culinary scene is a delightful tapestry woven with fresh, seasonal ingredients and the artistry of passionate chefs. From farm-to-table restaurants showcasing the bounty of the land to cozy bistros with global influences, your taste buds will embark on a delightful expedition. Savor melt-in-your-mouth trout, indulge in juicy steaks cooked to perfection, or tantalize your palate with innovative vegetarian creations.

If you are the adventurous type, Ellijay is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be unearthed. Hike through verdant forests teeming with life, cast a line into crystal-clear streams teeming with trout, or embark on a scenic drive along winding roads that unveil breathtaking vistas.

As spring paints the mountains in vibrant hues, Ellijay comes alive with a renewed energy. Dogwood trees erupt in a cascade of white blooms, blanketing the landscape in a breathtaking display of ethereal beauty. Mountain Laurels carpet the meadows in a kaleidoscope of colors, their sweet fragrance filling the air. The gentle murmur of waterfalls crescendos, celebrating the season’s grand arrival.

Ellijay is more than just a destination; it is a state of mind. It is a place where time slows down, and worries melt away like snowflakes under the warm embrace of the spring sun. It is a place where the simple pleasures of life – the crackling fire, the shared laughter, the delectable meal – are elevated to an art form.

Ellijay, Georgia, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its upscale cabin rentals, award-winning wineries, and delectable cuisine, it offers an experience that is both luxurious and down-to-earth. And as spring paints the mountains in vibrant hues, the town comes alive with a renewed energy, making it the perfect time to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

Visit www.PickEllijay.com

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The Cheers Trail makes is easy to find brews, ciders, and sips made with local ingredients. Available as a free, mobile exclusive, instantly-delivered experience through text and email, the Cheers Trail takes you across 22 of the best libations-makers Ohio has to offer. Using your mobile passport, check-in when visiting participating businesses and earn points toward exciting prizes that can be redeemed at Shores & Islands Ohio welcome centers. Prizes can be earned for making qualifying purchases at five or more locations and you’ll earn points if you sip back, relax, and spend quality time at these brew-tiful locations!

Your adventure will take you across northern Ohio from Avon Lake to Helena, and to Catawba where you will find Twin Oast Brewery, offering craft-made beers and food mixing traditional German offerings with a modern American sentiment, also known as one of Ohio’s premiere fruit-based sour beer brewers. Gideon Owen Wine Company is a 150-year-old winery in Catawba. It has recently undergone a complete overhaul to both its indoor and outdoor spaces, menu, and more. It’s now a perfect blend of historic charm with an 1872 wine cellar, modern patio with fire pits, fine dining, and a wine bar. Next, to Marblehead’s Rocky Point Winery, just a few minutes from the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy wines made using Midwest grapes, including ones grown on Isle St. George in Lake Erie. Then to Sandusky’s, Everwild Spirits, a craft bourbon distillery producing whiskeys and craft cocktails that represent the local land and grains native to Ohio. Berlin Heights offers the very unique Redhead Ciderhouse at Burnham Orchards. Redhead Ciderhouse is an estate cidery who grows, presses, and ferments on site. Hard ciders can be sampled in the tasting room or purchased to-go at the orchard’s market. Don’t forget to visit the island locations during the warmer months, as the Cheers Trail is a year-round experience.

These are just a few locations the Cheers Trail will lead you to on your journey of experiencing some of the best local flavors, culture, and history.

Firelands Adventure Tours offers two different 4-hour winery tours throughout the region in a climate-controlled, comfortable 16-passenger bus. Tours begin and end in downtown Sandusky and include three unique winery stops. These tours are VIP, all-inclusive wine-tasting events, that include wines paired with delicious snacks, interesting discussions with wine makers and winery staff, an informative tour of the production facilities, and gratuities for one all-inclusive price.
Traveling the Cheers Trail is a fun and enjoyable experience, from games for the kids to winter-friendly outdoor spaces with igloos, glass houses, and heated patios, the Cheers Trail is for the whole family. Everywhere you visit will offer something for everyone, including giant pretzels, cheese trays, coffee, beautiful views, live music, and so much more!

Good food, good drink, and good company with Shores & Islands Ohio Cheers Trail will make your getaway one to remember! Visit SHORESandISLANDS.com/cheers today to get started and sign up for your mobile passport. Please sip responsibly!

The post Sip Back and Relax with Shores & Islands Ohio Cheers Trail appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

JUBAN’S

For more than 40 years, Juban’s Restaurant has cultivated a reputation as one of Baton Rouge’s first (and most popular) fine dining establishments. Many celebratory dinners and events take place in this beautifully enhanced establishment, among the stunning decor and reimagined menu. The kitchen is led by Chef Chris Motto, a local culinary innovator and former competitor on Gordon Ramsay’s reality show, Hell’s Kitchen. Motto has worked to create a new Juban’s menu that reflects its classic-meets-contemporary vibe. For a classic South Louisiana experience with friends and family, join Juban’s for Jazz Brunch on the weekends.

THE CHIMES

With an upbeat, family-friendly atmosphere, visit The Chimes near the LSU campus for traditional Southern cuisine, Cajun/Creole dishes, and everyone’s gastropub favorites like po-boys, hamburgers, and more. From appetizers to desserts, every dish is an all-star — enjoyed in the bustling dining room or the rooftop patio. Pair your dish with a Louisiana libation from the full bar with 239 different spirits, 20+ different wines, 80 draft beers, and 126 beers on the bottle list. After your meal, take a stroll onto campus where you can meet the legendary Mike the Tiger.

Tsunami Sushi at the Shaw Center

TSUNAMI SUSHI AT THE SHAW CENTER

Experience the ultimate sushi dining experience located on the Shaw Center for the Arts rooftop in Downtown Baton Rouge. Get an unparalleled panoramic view of the city while dining on the outdoor terrace and toasting sake to the sunset over the river. Tsunami’s menu has maintained its buzzy status since day one; with Eastern flare, Southern roots, and fresh seafood. Enjoy a full sushi menu as well as a popular grill menu — including the must-have sea bass or sumo ribeye. Tsunami is the perfect setting for milestone celebrations and date night.

THE MAIN LOBBY

Unwind after a long day with late-night bites and plucky jazz. The Main Lobby offers plenty of space to relax with your cocktail in hand and enjoy the company of your closest friends or romantic interest. Sink into the comfy lounge seating or get some fresh air on the rooftop bar. It’s a Downtown staple with French influence, Spanish Town flair, and laidback upscale lounge vibes.

LOUISIANA ART & SCIENCE MUSEUM

Though its silhouette is a familiar part of the downtown skyline, the Louisiana Art & Science Museum is a hidden gem of downtown Baton Rouge. Its facade is that of a historic railway station originally built in 1925. Inside of that iconic brick building, on the mighty Mississippi River itself, this hub of activity and creativity features constantly rotating exhibits and experiences. Planetarium shows, kids activities and fine art exhibits make this an exciting trip for people of all ages.

THE BLUEBONNET SWAMP

Witness real Louisiana iconography up-close at Bluebonnet Swamp; smack-dab in the middle of the city. Part of BREC’s park system, the Bluebonnet Swamp has more than a mile of boardwalks and pathways weaving between the trunks of cypress and magnolia trees. This nature preserve is brimming with natural wildlife, and the property also boasts an award-winning live-animal exhibit inside the nature center. You wouldn’t expect such a green, serene space just a stone’s throw away from the Mall of Louisiana, but it’s there that this beautiful property lies just waiting to be explored.

Even the highest quality recommendations are just the beginning in Baton Rouge. Exploration is infinite here; with an entire universe of restaurants, activities, landmarks, recreation destinations, history, and so much more. Until you’re able to get down here and experience them for yourself, head over to visitbatonrouge.com/thingstodo and find even more stops to add to your Baton Rouge bucket list.

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Harrisonburg’s culinary landscape, boasts over 80 locally-owned restaurants and a commitment to farm-to-table fare that tantalizes the taste buds with international flavors. Beyond the culinary delights, there is a vibrant arts scene with one-of-a-kind shops, filled with hidden treasures curated by local artisans and business owners. It’s no wonder Harrisonburg proudly holds the title of Virginia’s First Culinary District and a Virginia Arts & Cultural District.

Harrisonburg offers the perfect weekend getaway. From the minute you arrive on a Friday afternoon you will feel the warm and inviting atmosphere. For a charming and relaxing stay just minutes from downtown, check into By The Side of the Road Inn & Cottages. As Harrisonburg’s first bed and breakfast, this family-owned property is steeped in history. Now operating as an inn, guests can choose to stay in the historic main building with private rooms or one of the cozy cottages scattered throughout the property.

After settling in, head downtown to Pale Fire Brewing Company. Sip on a flight of locally brewed beers, including their award-winning cream ale, Taking Water—a delightful blend with Pilsner malt and Liberty hops. Indulge in Detroit-style pizza, mouthwatering sandwiches, or crisp salads. Nestle by the fireplace with a book from their community library or groove to local live music, setting the perfect tone for the weekend.

Start your Saturday at Heritage Bakery for freshly baked pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and artisanal coffee. This charming, family-owned bakery takes pride in crafting their delectable pastries in-house daily, skillfully incorporating locally sourced lavender for an authentic touch. With a commitment to quality, their menu offerings change daily, promising an exciting array of flavors to savor each time you visit.

With the morning fuel, set your sights on the nearby Shenandoah National Park, a mere 30-minute drive from downtown. Grab a sandwich from Lola’s Delicatessen to embark on a picnic, surrounded by breathtaking views. If you’re looking to be more adventurous, plan out a hike on one of the trails. The South River Falls Trail takes you to the base of an 83′ waterfall, where you’ll cross a section of the Appalachian Trail. For an adrenaline-pumping scenic hike, conquer the Bearfence Rock Scramble—an exhilarating rock scramble that leads to a magnificent 360-degree view of the Virginia Piedmont and Shenandoah Valley.

The Joshua Wilton House, award winning cuisine.

As the day winds down, head back into town for an elegant dinner at The Joshua Wilton House, an award-winning Victorian fine dining restaurant with refined Virginia cuisine. Executive Chef Tom French brings culinary expertise from rare experiences including an internship at Buckingham Palace and Windsor Castle. His remarkable talent for enhancing any ingredient promises a unique and delightful farm-to-table dining experience. Cap off the night at The Golden Pony with their exceptional, seasonal cocktails. Meticulously crafted in-house, each libation is a testament to the team’s dedication to innovative and high-quality mixology.

For a delightful Sunday brunch, head to Magpie Diner, located in a transformed 1950s tire service station. Their ever-changing menu brings a distinctive seasonal flare worth the anticipated wait. As you wait, check out the Liberty Street Mercantile just across the street, housing eight local businesses each showcasing unique, hidden gems. After brunch, splurge on a one-of-a-kind downtown shopping experience at The Shops @ Agora and The Yellow Button. “Before leaving Harrisonburg, grab some fresh gourmet popcorn at Shirley’s Popcorn for the perfect drive-home snack.

In just one weekend, Harrisonburg offers a perfect blend of culinary delights, outdoor adventures, and local shopping experiences. With its warm atmosphere and welcoming community, this town is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a desire to return for more.

Plan your trip today at VisitHarrisonburgVA.com

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As the days grow colder, the action starts to heat up at River Riders Family Adventure Park which transforms into Snow Riders in the winter months. This new snow tubing park features 12 lanes and is the longest tubing slope on the east coast at almost three football fields long. A modern Magic Carpet conveyor lift brings you and your tube quickly back to the top of the hill so you can relax and can tube down again!

At night, the party is just getting started. Snow Riders lights up the night with a multi-color LED disco light show. Enjoy the beat of the music and changing of the light as you slide down the slopes with your family and friends.

Even if there is no natural snow on the ground, the brand new and modern snow making machines have you covered! You can go snow tubing at Snow Riders even when the temperatures are above freezing!

After a day of snow-tubing or exploring, Jefferson Counties quaint and eclectic small towns offer an incredible mix of dining options. A great way to start your day is at Sibling Coffee Roasters, a small specialty coffee roasting company located in downtown Charles Town. Sample quality micro-lot single origin green coffee from all over the world and find the one you like the best.

If you want to enjoy Mediterranean cuisine, then return to Charles Town for dinner at Alfredo’s Mediterranean Steakhouse & Grille. This family-owned local favorite has been preparing traditional and modern dishes featuring foods from Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Lebanon and Morocco for over 15 years.

Since 2013, Ortega’s Taco Shop has been famous for the “best taco in town.” Featuring locally sourced meats, cheeses, and produce, Ortega’s is a favorite stop for more than just tacos. Just a short walk down the street, discover Sumittra Thai Kitchen. Sumittra showcases authentic Thai flavors prepared with classic techniques. Shareable portions served in multiple courses allow diners to enjoy each dish hot out of the kitchen.

For a unique lunch or dinner, try Cocina Plantosaurus in downtown Charles Town. This Puertorican fusion restaurant is a 100% plant-based restaurant.

If a cold beer and pub food is more your style, look no further than Abolitionist Ale Works in downtown Charles Town for fun, flavorful and unique beers for every palate. Specialty pizzas, sandwiches, and appetizers complement the brews.

A brisk morning walk along the C & O Canal Towpath is the perfect way to kick off a day in Jefferson County. Enjoy beautiful views of the Potomac river as you follow the well-maintained path. Access the path by crossing the bridge in Shepherdstown into Maryland. If you stay at the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, the path is literally three minutes away.

After your morning work out, head downtown to Betty’s Restaurant for a hearty breakfast and some local color. This old-school favorite is the quintessential small town morning gathering spot for local news and great food.

After a relaxing and informative breakfast, head up the street to Four Seasons Books to find the perfect novel or “beach trash” to fill a lazy afternoon in front of a warm fire.

For more information on creating your own Jefferson County getaway, visit WhereAlmostHeavenBegins.com.

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Inspired by the native Cherokee, the Equani Spa offers treatments to maximize strength, health, appearance, mental acuity and spiritual balance within the spa’s quietly luxurious 7,500- square foot facility. The Equani Spa of Brasstown Valley Resort surrounds its guests in a lodge-style motif with natural timber furnishings, Cherokee hand-crafted decorative elements, custom millwork, fireplaces, and a variety of peaceful treatment rooms. Unique spa rituals and treatments offered by our expert staff leave guests feeling rejuvenated and revitalized. Treating your significant other or a group of friends to a one-of-a-kind spa experience is just another reason Brasstown Valley Resort & Spa is the ideal location for romantic getaways, friend trips, and destination weddings.

Perfect for a corporate outing, a couple’s getaway or a weekend with friends, the breathtaking scenery is just as enjoyable as the world-class golf.  Both Golf Digest and Leading Golf Courses of America ranked Brasstown Valley Golf Course as one of the top golf courses in Georgia.

The Brasstown Valley Golf Course offers full practice options, a well-equipped Pro Shop, and customized special tournaments. Golf lessons and clinics are also available through the Blue Ridge Mountain golf resort’s Director of Golf and PGA Professional, Steve Phelps.

The award-winning course is managed and maintained by the resort staff with the guests’ experience as the first priority. We are dedicated to providing each player with a one-of-a-kind experience filled with great golf and great service

Featuring five miles of trails, the Stables primarily offers one- and two-hour guided mountain trail rides, accommodating all experience levels, from beginner to advanced. Guests can meander through open fields, hardwood forests and crystal-clear trout streams as they travel throughout the property. Custom excursions, hayrides and catered picnic rides also are available for both individual and group outings. For guests ages six-years-old and younger, the Stables offer hand-led horseback rides in the facility’s riding ring. The 1,200 square-feet Facility is perfect for both individual leisure guests and larger organized groups, and is open to both resort guests and the general public. Axe-Throwing and Archery are also available at the Stables.

Brasstown Valley Resort and Spa serves up two distinctive dining settings.
• The Dining Room is known far and wide for its picturesque mountain views, weekend dinner buffets and Sunday Brunches.
• Brassies Grill is perfect for the casual dining experience as it offers a relaxing lunch, quick afternoon snack or cozy fireside dinner.

The Lake Chatuge areas of Hiawassee and Young Harris, feature wineries, one-of-a-kind shopping and many outdoor activities.  Come see what the mountains have to offer.
golakechatuge.com 706-896-4966

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Roll down the Delaware River in a raft, tube, or canoe from one of a half-dozen liveries. Take a journey through scenic splendor and foamy rapids. American dry-fly fishing was born here. Cast about in the Neversink or Delaware rivers. Or try the Beaverkill or Willowemoc Creek. You can walk or train an alpaca at Buck Brook Alpacas and buy cozy apparel. Or try yoga in the field where the Alpacas graze. If it’s raining, swim (and dine) at the Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark Resort—New York’s biggest.

Get out on the trails. The Sullivan O&W Rail Trail follows the route that brought visitors here for almost 90 years. The Hurleyville segment is ADA-compliant. The D&H Canal Linear Park parallels the route that once transported regional coal and other products toward New York City. Up for something a little more challenging? The Tusten Mountain Trail is a moderate 2.9-mile loop that you and your leashed four-legged friend will like.

There is plenty of song and dance here. The 76-year-old Forestburgh Playhouse season includes Jersey Boys, Misery, and seven other productions, plus their new In the Works, in the Woods Festival. Break out your tie-dye and visit Bethel Woods Center for the Arts at the 1969 Woodstock Music and Arts Festival site. Take a virtual reality tour and learn about the ‘60s in the Museum. Then see The Chicks, Goo Goo Dolls, or Zac Brown in the Pavilion. On August 19-20, a new music festival debuts on the historic field. The Catbird Festival will feature local eats, craft beer, your favorite folk, indie, Americana artists, and jam bands.

Try our Award-Winning food and drink options in Sullivan Catskills

Hungry? Foster Supply Hospitality is a “2023 James Beard Foundation’s Restaurant and Chef Awards Semi-Finalist for Outstanding Restaurateur.” Their five restaurants feature everything from a 12-course tasting menu to pop-ups in a historic inn’s two-lane, hand-set bowling alley. The Cochecton Pump House is one of the hottest new venues. This restaurant and event space was built in 1881 and re-established in 2021 as an open-air venue and offers an Asian street food-inspired menu for the 2023 summer season. You’re lucky if you’re heading to the gaming tables at Resorts World Catskills because the world-famous Monster golf course is reopening in August, and you can celebrate that Condor at Scott Conant’s Cellaio. Famous for aged, 100% Certified Black Angus steaks, Cellaio is equally renowned for a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere and warm, generous hospitality. Chef Jaime Stankevicius (who worked under the prestigious chef Jean-Georges) at the Neversink General Store creates culinary delights inspired by the land’s bounty. Named for the ecological marvel where it is located, Bashakill Vineyards is a wine-lovers paradise. Watch the eagles and sip a Black Bear. Smell the pines and sample a Wood Duck. Samara learned to cook in Italy. Try her Truffle Cheese and Mushrooms.

When you keep bees and distill spirits, you open Catskills Provisions and serve spirits with honey. Try the smokey 100% proof Bonfire Rye. The food at the Tasting Room here is sourced locally. Do Good Spirits in Roscoe and Rock Valley Spirits offer unique vodka, gin, bourbon, and whiskey. Do Good also has food, music, and merch to take home. Seminary Hill Cidery in Callicoon has been called “James Fenimore’s America with a dash of Tuscany.” The ciders are first-rate, and the Sourdough Bread with Cultured Butter and Whipped Chicken Fat is to die for. Beer lovers: the Good Taste Craft Beverage Trail is packed with breweries: 17 West, Bridge & Tunnel, Callicoon, Catskill, Roscoe, Russian Mule, Shrewd Fox and Upward.

All that outdoor fun, eating, and drinking will leave you wanting a good night’s sleep. Rest in a resort, curl up in a campground, meditate, and get your beauty sleep in a boutique inn. There’s a bed for every head, taste, and budget. Sleep well! When you visit, download the Sullivan Catskills Go app— a valuable tool to guide you to the fun. Visit SullivanCatskills.com

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