Dollywood’s Harvest Festival in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
September 9 through October 28

As the leaves change to their autumnal glory in the Great Smoky Mountains, Dollywood transforms its theme park into a celebration of fall during its Harvest Festival, presented by Humana. At this time of year, Dollywood features colossal pumpkins that weigh 800 to 1,500 pounds; Dolly Parton-inspired sights like a larger-than-life guitar (made of pumpkins!) that plays “Tennessee Mountain Home” and a tree where Dolly’s voice narrates the changing of the seasons in the Smokies; live musical performances including Southern gospel, bluegrass and country tunes; more than 50 world-class rides and attractions; and delicious fall-themed treats featuring pumpkin and apple flavors. At night the park transforms into “Great Pumpkin LumiNights,” presented by Covenant Health, and guests can view more than 12,000 illuminated pumpkins that have been carved into whimsical creatures.

International Festival in Bowling Green, Kentucky
September 28

Bowling Green is Kentucky’s third-largest city, and it’s considered a diversity epicenter in large part because it’s home to the state’s refugee resettlement center. Because of this, a wide range of cultures is represented in the city, especially within the small business community. Those cultures come together every fall for the International Festival, a cultural extravaganza that draws attendees from near and far. Festival-goers wander through bustling streets adorned with colorful flags and vibrant stalls offering authentic dishes from all around the world. More than 40 food vendors specializing in international cuisine serve their specialties, presenting international menus that incorporate locally-sourced ingredients. Attendees can grab a bite to eat while enjoying dynamic performances showcasing music, dance, and artistic expressions from a variety of cultures.

40^th Annual Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival on Alabama’s Beaches
November 7 through 17

The Frank Brown International Songwriters’ Festival brings together nearly 200 of the unsung heroes of the music business from all over the world for a 10-day festival. Celebrating its 40^th anniversary this year, the event takes place at venues along the Alabama–Florida state line. Attendees can enjoy close-up and personal concert experiences (most of which are free!) while learning the stories behind many award-winning songs. The festival is named for Frank Brown, the former night watchman at the famed Flora-Bama Lounge and Oyster Bar, a great American roadhouse that straddles the state line. Songwriters play at the Flora-Bama, where it all began, and in approximately two dozen other locations across the beach communities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama, and Perdido Key and Pensacola, Florida.

Big Boy’s Main Street Cook Off and Thibodeauxville Fall Festival in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou
November 8 and 9

Two of the biggest fall events in Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou occur on the same weekend, which means that visitors get double the fall, double the fun, and double the food! Indulge in mouthwatering Cajun cuisine prepared by more than two dozen chef-led teams that work to showcase the area’s culinary heritage at Big Boy’s Main Street Cook Off. From savory gumbo (“sweater weather” in other parts of the country constitutes “gumbo weather” here on the bayou) to tasty jambalaya, there’s an array of vibrant tastes. Just as stomachs start to growl again, a new day brings the Thibodeauxville Fall Festival. People come to this free and award-winning event to enjoy Cajun food, art vendors, a car show and … ducks? Yep … the festival is best known for its rubber ducky race!

SOURCE MBPR

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A train, plane or car ride can easily transport you to Cambridge, which is located on the opposite bank of the Charles River from Boston and approximately six miles from Boston Logan Airport. Once here, get ready to experience Cambridge’s eclectic energy, world-class museums, historic sites, diverse restaurants, small boutiques plus an incredible live music scene all within our quaint neighborhoods and famous “Squares.” Cover all that with a blanket of snow from Mother Nature (if you’re lucky!), and Cambridge becomes an even more magical and curious destination to explore.

Home to over twenty hotels and the largest number of hotel rooms outside of Downtown Boston, Cambridge is ready to welcome you for a weekend, a week….or longer! If you’re planning a family vacation, Royal Sonesta Cambridge Boston is sure to be a favorite for all ages. The riverside hotel boasts one of the largest indoor pools around and is an eight minute walk from the Museum of Science. For those seeking a romantic getaway, The Charles Hotel and Kimpton Marlowe offer cozy bed and breakfast packages for two. Whatever winter getaway you envision, there is a Cambridge hotel for you!

Colder temperatures and a little snow won’t stop Cambridge; there are plenty of winter activities to enjoy. A few special experiences you will not want to miss are the Taste of Chocolate Weekend, Cambridge Crossing’s annual Aprés Cambridge event, the chance to dine riverside in a heated Igloo at the Royal Sonesta’s ArtBar, or the opportunity to show off your moves at the Canal District Kendall ice skating rink, open daily thru mid-March.

Kendal Canal Ice Skating Rink in Cambridge

Whether you’re shopping for yourself or searching for the perfect Valentine’s Day present, use the Cambridge Business Diversity Directory to find that unique gift that you’ve been looking for, while supporting small and minority-owned businesses throughout Cambridge!

Cambridge is also the birthplace of higher education in America, home to both Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), located just 2 miles apart. Both universities house renowned museum collections that are open to the public and make for a memorable winter afternoon activity.

Foodie? You’re in luck. Cambridge is famous for its eclectic mix of restaurants, with many featuring winter-inspired or seasonal dishes. Cambridge will spoil you with choices, from fresh and arty to elegant including fan favorites like Puritan & Company, Harvest, Alden & Harlow, Oleana, and Giulia. And if you have a sweet tooth, Toscanini’s ice cream is a hot spot that the New York Times once called “the best ice cream in the world” featuring hundreds of flavors that rotate throughout the year — well worth the risk of a mild brain freeze.

While some destinations hibernate as colder temperatures creep in, Cambridge, MA comes alive with indoor and outdoor events and activities for everyone. Make Cambridge your winter destination this year!

Visit CambridgeUSA.org

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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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When the weather starts to cool, slowly and mildly as it’s known to do in South Louisiana, the lucky locals of Baton Rouge look forward to what comes next: gumbo season. While there’s no “official” credence, fall and early winter impart an undeniable craving for the rich and hearty roux-based stew called gumbo. Crab, shrimp, smoked sausage, chicken, okra—the ingredients vary greatly by chef, but nearly every Baton Rouge restaurant serving Creole and Cajun classics will have it on the menu. More importantly, it’s going to be good.

So what happens when the gumbo’s gone? When you’ve reached the bottom of the bowl, ordered a second for the table and are ready to explore? Spend a weekend in Louisiana’s historic Capital City and you’ll learn that when it comes to Southern traditions, there’s plenty to go around.

Tailgating and gumbo go together like football and marching bands, so an LSU or Southern University game day is an electrifying first impression of the city this time of year. If football isn’t your cup of tea? Try a different spirit. Head down town where a variety of cocktail bars, breweries and distilleries are all with in walking distance of hotels, museums and more. Oxbow Rum Distillery has become a fan favorite for its tours and tastings of premium rum made from Louisiana sugar cane, grown along the bends of the Mississippi River. After you sip your spirits beneath the twinkling lights of the outdoor tasting room, take a stroll down to the Mighty Mississippi herself and watch the sunset over a glistening horizon.

Once you’ve had your fill of flavor, the music and art scene in Baton Rouge is not to be missed. National headliners and local talent bring old and new sounds of folk, funk, blues, rock and country to venues across the city, while incredible art can be found just about anywhere—from festival grounds and city sidewalks, to the Baton Rouge Gallery and seasonal events like White Light Night and Sundays in the Park.

When it’s all said and done, and you’ve been enchanted by the slow, sweet serenade of Southern hospitality, it’s only fitting that you bookend your stay with a heart-warming crescendo of local flavor. Frank’s Restaurant, known for “the best homemade biscuits in the world” is one of the best-kept secrets for breakfast. Sharing the category with other greats like Louie’s and Dearman’s, all three have been serving the city for over half a century.

Just like a gumbo, time spent in Baton Rouge is a blend of all things good, one serendipitous moment after the next. Whether it’s the food, music, sports or history that brings you here, the easiest way to plan your trip is visitbatonrouge.com. The rest is gumbo and gravy. Take it easy and enjoy.

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You might not expect to find diverse fare like Asian-fusion or Filipino food in the Oldest Town in Texas, but we’re full of surprises.

Travel deep in the Pineywoods and taste your way through town with delicious options like Barkeeps Eatery & Taps, featuring a variety of Asian-inspired food for every diet. If house-made Pho or Korean Bulgogi Tacos don’t pique your interest, maybe their sister restaurant Maklemore’s Ale House & Bistro will do the trick with sinfully delicious Fried Mak ‘n’ Cheese Balls. A popular hang out on the weekends, Maklemore’s often has live music and specials on their impressive rotating beer selection.

If you’re in Texas, you’re probably looking for good BBQ. Don’t worry, we have it. Brendyn’s BBQ started as a Food Truck catering events and parking at the local winery. Articles in magazines like Texas Monthly launched Brendyn’s to success and helped him establish his brick & mortar location in Downtown Nacogdoches. Visitors know the name before they arrive, and locals are just as big of fans. Get the Pig Apple with a side of potato salad for the full experience, and if you’re lucky, a fresh batch of jalapeño pepper jack sausage will be on special.

Like good Southerners, we’ve got the fried thing down. The best Onion Rings you’ll ever have are at Clear Springs, along with favorites like Chicken Fried Steak and Fried Catfish. Just next door is Auntie Pastas, an eclectic eatery with craft cocktails and Italian favorites with a twist. Voted as the best place for a first date in Nacogdoches, Auntie Pastas features a “Filet Gorgonzola,” a juicy beef tenderloin topped with gorgonzola cheese and a balsamic reduction.

Visitors are always impressed with the amenities and restaurants at the mid-century modern masterpiece, The Fredonia Hotel. Check out our Restaurant Spotlight in this issue to learn more about the boutique luxury hotel.

Nacogdoches is the proud home to several food trucks, ranging from La Biblioteca Coffee to Shali’s Indian Kitchen on Wheels. The mobile eateries rotate through venues around town like the Fredonia Brewery, Red House Winery and Front Porch Distillery. The food truck scene brought so much diversity to Nacogdoches, that “Nac Snack Friday” became a monthly event. On the fourth Friday of every month you can find 4-5 trucks parked around the Downtown Square for lunch and dinner, with live music in the evening. To keep things fresh, food trucks from all over the region come to participate. The flavor our food trucks bring is like nothing else, and the personal touches set us apart. The owner of Rice Queen Street Food, Janae Osborn, created her menu from her Korean grandmother’s recipes and added her own twist. Nacogdoches fell in love with her creations like “Bungeo-Ppang,” a vegan sweet waffle in the shape of a fish stuffed with peanut butter, jellies, and other fun fillings.  The Rice Queen brings new recipes on a regular basis, always keeping her customers excited to try something outside the box.

Nacogdoches has always been known for History, Charm and Natural Beauty—but there’s another side to the Oldest Town in Texas, and it’s a tasty one. Come visit us for a relaxing vacation and let us dazzle your taste buds. Let us help you plan your trip at visitnacogdoches.org

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The Ozarks Tap and Pour Craft Beverage Tour provides opportunities for patrons to check in digitally at participating breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Once participants have checked in at a minimum of 10 locations, they’re eligible to receive a free commemorative T-shirt!

Launched in 2018, the program is a popular activity for locals and tourists in southwest Missouri.

This year, about 20 businesses from Springfield and the surrounding area are participating in the program. Each is locally owned and provides unique beverages and flavors, including tried and true favorites and seasonal blends.

The craft beverage tour is just one of many reasons people enjoy exploring Springfield and the Ozarks. The CVB is also launching the Ozarks Coffee Tour this fall and people who fulfill the requirements and check in at participating coffee shops will be eligible to receive a free commemorative mug.

The city is home to the first and largest Bass Pro Shops store in the world, an outdoor shopping mecca visited by more than 4 million people annually. Adjacent to the store is the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium. This world-class, award-winning wildlife experience provides up-close views of live animals and fish along with hundreds of displays showcasing creatures from all over the world. The area’s attractions also include Springfield Cardinals AA baseball, Dickerson Park Zoo, Fantastic Caverns – the only cave in North America you can ride through, Smallin Civil War Cave, Wild Animal Safari, history and art museums, a strong performing and visual arts community, and many others.

A trip to Springfield isn’t complete without sampling some of the amazing chef-owned restaurants found throughout the city. In downtown Springfield alone, more than 50 restaurants offer everything from handcrafted sushi to succulent steaks and everything in between. Cuisine from all over the world is available, such as Greek, Peruvian, Italian, Argentinian, Lebanese, and others.

Along with all the international flair, the city offers its own take on food. Springfield’s signature dish is Springfield-style cashew chicken. The distinctive blend of fried chicken, covered in oyster sauce, green onions and cashews is found on menus all over the country. The family that created it back in 1963 still operates a restaurant – Leong’s Asian Diner – and serves the original recipe daily.

Another iconic restaurant is Red’s Giant Hamburg, a restaurant that originally was on old Route 66 in Springfield and became known as the first restaurant with a drive-through window. While the original Red’s is gone, a new Red’s showcases the original menu and retro decor, making it a must-see when you’re looking to experience some old-style Americana.

Outside the city, the Ozarks is filled with charming small communities along with all the music shows and activities in Branson, just a few miles south of Springfield. Surrounding the city, visitors can explore lush forests, rivers, and lakes that provide ample opportunities for fishing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.

That’s just a small sample of all there is to see and do in the Springfield area. Learn more and request a free Springfield Guide at SpringfieldMO.org or call the Convention & Visitors Bureau at 800-678-8767.

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Step into the past and the life of the Lincoln family when you visit the only home the Lincolns ever owned at the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Stroll through the beautiful, historic neighborhood surrounding the home and tour Lincoln’s house for a rare glimpse into the life of Lincoln as a husband, father and neighbor.

The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the official library and museum of the 16th U.S. president. Experience pivotal moments in Lincoln’s life and enjoy immersive displays and amazing shows that explore the human costs of slavery and war. View Lincoln and his family through artifacts not found anywhere else in the world. Numerous exhibits explore Lincoln’s life from his boyhood in a Kentucky cabin to his 1860 campaign for President of the United States.

A trip to Springfield is not complete without a visit to the Old State Capitol Historic Site, a reconstruction of the fifth State House. Serving as the State Capitol from 1840-1876 and during the 20th century’s Civil Rights movement, its restorers carefully recreated the building where Lincoln gave his famous “House Divided” speech. Enjoy a self-guided walk through the historic site and visit with staff to learn more unique details about the history of this site.

The Lincoln Tomb State Historic Site, designed by famed sculptor, Larkin Mean, is nestled in Oak Ridge Cemetery. Within the walls of this stunning granite monument is the final resting place of Abraham Lincoln, his wife, Mary, and three of their four sons. (Lincoln’s oldest son, Robert, is buried in Arlington National Cemetery.) At the entrance to the Tomb itself, there is a bronze bust of Abraham Lincoln; visitors  from around the world have stopped to rub the nose of the statue for good luck.

Make a stop at the Lincoln Memorial Garden for a truly calming experience. Located on the shores of Lake Springfield and designed by landscape architect, Jens Jensen, this woodland and prairie garden has over five miles of trails that lead you on a journey through the Illinois landscape Lincoln would have known. Depending on the season you visit, you could be surrounded by springtime dogwoods in full bloom, colorful prairie wildflowers of summer, burnished autumn leaves, or snow-covered maple trees bursting with sap. Be sure to visit the Garden’s Nature Center and Split Rail Gift Shop.

Historic Route 66 runs through Springfield and is dotted with many unique stops, including Route 66 Motorheads Bar, Grill & Museum, a classic car restaurant with a themed menu, serving great food and delicious drinks against the backdrop of the Route 66 & Motor Museum. While there, snap a pic with the World’s Largest Outdoor Route 66 Shield!

The Cozy Dog Drive In is a traditional Route 66 diner that became a part of the history of The Mother Road, and the history of Springfield, when, in 1946, inventor Ed Waldmire introduced the “Cozy Dog”– the famous “hot dog on a stick.” The Waldmire family still makes this delicacy today. Inside the diner, located on Old Route 66 since 1949, you’ll find an amusing selection of Route 66 memorabilia, souvenirs, and delightful treats. Maldaner’s Restaurant is a creative American establishment with a focus on farm-to-table food. You will dine in a relaxed, semi-formal atmosphere in a historical Springfield building just two blocks from downtown hotels and Lincoln sites. Established in 1884, Maldaner’s is the oldest continually operated restaurant in Springfield on Route 66.

Plan to relax and enjoy one of more than a dozen wineries and breweries in the Springfield area. These locally owned businesses offer the best in craft beer, wines, and delicious noshes in beautiful settings, many with outdoor garden areas, live music, and special events.

Regardless of your interests, Springfield has you covered with a variety of sites, attractions, culinary delights, and a variety of accommodations to meet your travel needs.

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The heart of Wichita Falls is the revitalized downtown, a must-visit destination with adventures around every corner. They say the best things in life are free, which is true of the parking that places urban-wanderers within walking distance of two wineries, numerous taphouses, the Wichita Falls Brewing Company, boutique shopping, and live music venues. Music enthusiasts will feel at home after opening the century-old front door of The Ironhorse Pub and pulling up a barstool at the authentic Irish pub, voted a top ten live music venue in Texas. 

If coffee is more your speed, you have multiple options in Downtown Wichita Falls, such as The Duck Coffee Roastery and Tasting Room which focuses on sourcing beans ethically and roasting them to perfection. It doesn’t take newcomers long to feel the sense of community in Wichita Falls, which is evident in the many partnerships downtown. Fans of The Duck Company coffee can also enjoy an Odd Duck coffee stout at Wichita Falls Brewing Company or an Odd Duck Coffee truffle at B Cocoa Artisan Chocolate. 

Downtown is always bustling whether you crave night-life adventure, prefer more artsy ventures, or are seeking a family-friendly environment. Many of the restaurants, breweries, wineries, and coffee shops feature patios, some dog-friendly. Families can play a round of cornhole at Wichita Falls Brewery while digging into an artisan pizza from Progress & Provisions’ venue-appropriate brewery menu which is best accompanied by a locally-brewed craft beer. Those who prefer an alcohol-free environment can rediscover their inner child at Maniacs Mansion, an arcade that features all-you-can-play vintage arcade games and a cereal bar that offers an assortment of cereals, milks, and toppings. 

As you explore downtown be sure to take a few instagram-worthy photos with the backdrop of striking, colorful murals, or pose for pics next to one of over seventy beautiful fiberglass horses hand painted by local artists that decorate businesses, parks, and facilities. 

For a less urban adventure, Morath Orchards has been practicing sustainable family farming on their 90-acre orchard since 1981. Patrons of the orchard relish in the Moraths’ passion for fresh food, fellowship, and the beauty of wide open spaces. In addition to their ongoing tours, the fall offers adventurers an added bonus to explore their six-and-a-half-acre corn maze and six-acre pumpkin patch. The Morath daughters also host home-cooked Farm to Table dinners in the evenings with a seasonal menu determined by the available fresh produce. 

Interested in fresh, local produce but not sure you have time to visit the farm? Morath Orchards brings their produce weekly to the downtown Farmers Market, and Chef Kyle at Progress & Provisions features their produce in his tempting menu selections such as brocollini nestled beside aligot potato and topped with garlic and herb chicken. 

Known internationally for the annual Hotter’N Hell Hundred, one of the oldest and largest national cycling events, Wichita Falls especially welcomes its bicyclist guests to experience the thrills of the Wee-Chi-Tah trail and 20-mile-long Circle Trail, both beloved by the local biking community. 

The strong bonds of community are at the core of every business and venue in Wichita Falls. Come for a visit. You won’t stay a stranger for long.

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Known for its picturesque beauty, Lakeville, Minnesota, has long been a destination for enjoying an abundance of outdoor activities. With fall’s tapestry of brilliantly changing colors dotted with scenic lakes and parks, it is an outdoor adventurer’s dream come true.   

Whether hitting the links, peddling around the lakes, casting a line, or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the open air, Lakeville presents opportunities for every nature-lover.  

Adventures Await   https://visitlakeville.org/blog/

Family adventurers and sports enthusiasts enjoy loads of recreational activities on the lakes and swimming beaches, parks and picnic areas, as well as greenways and trails. For a truly adventurous outing, try hurling axes or challenge your friends to a paintball fight.  

Home to 120 paved miles of bike and pedestrian trails, there are unlimited possibilities for your next outdoor adventure. Whether cruising for cardio or out for a relaxing ride, you can experience Lakeville on their extensive trail system. For the thrill-seekers, the West Lake Marion Park Mountain Bike Trail offers five miles of off-road awesomeness. Biking enthusiasts helped design the trail’s multiple switchbacks, berms and rollers. If meandering is more your style, enjoy the six-mile loop in Ritter Farm Park’s 340 acres of natural prairie grasses and woodlands, or stroll Juno Trail walkway for panoramic views of Lake Marion. Fido can roam free on five acres of doggy goodness at Ritter Farm’s Dog Park.  

The grass is always greener in Lakeville. With a dozen options, there’s no shortage of beautiful public golf courses!  Whether you consider yourself a champion player, an occasional golfer, or a mini-golf fan, you’ll find hundreds of fairways within a 15-mile radius. 

Families love fall’s memorable experiences here in Lakeville. Harvest season activities include apple picking, trips to pumpkin patches, hayrides and corn mazes. In addition, attend the farmers markets and orchards to pick up honey, jams, maple syrup, caramel apples and yummy baked goods.

Festival Goers   https://visitlakeville.org/things-to-do/

Lakeville will soon be alive with festivals. Held in late August, the Taste of Lakeville is a celebration of the senses. This annual event offers adults the opportunity to sample, taste, sip and devour local culinary treats, wine and spirits while enjoying live entertainment.   

Are the arts and culture more your thing? Scheduled for the third weekend of September, the annual Lakeville Arts Festival boasts 100 juried artists showcasing paintings, jewelry, ceramics, glass, sculpture and photography. Located on the park-like grounds of the Lakeville Area Arts Center, attendees enjoy fine art, food, drink, live music, demonstrations and the ArtWalk.

Palate Pleasers    https://visitlakeville.org/eat-drink/

Home to 90 area restaurants, 30 independently owned, you will find plenty of delectable food choices to satisfy every palate. So, what sounds good – a juicy burger, fresh farm-to-table entree, gourmet steak, savory seafood, or spicy ethnic cuisine?  For your insatiable sweet tooth try an ice cream bubble waffle cone creation, gluten-free goody or gourmet cupcake. With so many eateries around town, there is a place to fill all your foodie cravings. 

With a blend of the small-town atmosphere and modern-day amenities, Lakeville’s walkable historic downtown is bustling with unique businesses, breweries, entertainment, arts, and outdoor patio eateries to enjoy the crisp Autumn air! If nightlife is more your scene, attend a foot-tapping outdoor gathering or intimate indoor music event that occur nearly every weekend.  

Getting Here  

As the southern gateway to the Twin Cities, Lakeville is conveniently located at Interstate 35, just 13 miles south of the world-famous Mall of America and MSP International Airport. With six hotels and an abundance of activities, Lakeville offers more vacation for your money!     

VisitLakeville.org to start planning your next adventure. 

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Breakfast is the most important meal of the day especially when your day includes hiking, canoeing and a host of other adrenalin pumping options.  Start your day of exploring with whatever fuel you need to dive into one of Mother Nature’s jewels.  Locally owned coffee shops and diners are found throughout the region.  Best of all, local traditions are served up with local flair.

There’s a good chance, if you were raised in this part of Appalachia, you know how to make noodles.  Homemade noodles are the base of the best comfort foods.  They are served up in the Hocking Hills with big chunks of beef or chicken in gravy over mashed potatoes.  Of course, the mashed potatoes are the real McCoy too.

Special occasions call for a special experience.  What may look like a simple cabin holds a treasure trove of taste.  Fine dining in the heart of the forest increases the romance factor exponentially.

Two of the most popular comfort foods with the folks in these parts are BBQ and Pizza and both are found in all corners of the Hocking Hills.

Here the food scene is all about comfort.  Local eateries are serving up their best family recipes and traditional techniques for a welcome break from franchise dining.

Be sure to visit during the Annual Comfort Food Cruise, a self-guided tour of more than a dozen local restaurants serving up a sample of a signature comfort food.  The Hocking Hills Comfort Food Cruise takes place in January.

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