“From the new Icon and Utopia of the Seas to the upcoming $100 million transformation of Allure of the Seas, we’ve tripled the excitement for how vacationers can create lasting memories with Royal Caribbean,” said Jay Schneider, Chief Product Innovation Officer, Royal Caribbean International. “Allure will be reimagined with the best of what Royal Caribbean offers and what travelers love. With new favorites like the Pesky Parrot tiki bar and experiences that continuously evoke fond memories—from an incredible pool deck to an unbeatable mix of thrills and relaxation—Allure will feature even more of what makes it a beloved favorite.”

Between The Pesky Parrot tiki bar, resort-style pools, the 10-story dry slide – the Ultimate Abyss – and more, Royal Caribbean is dialing up Eurotrips for every type of family and vacationer in more ways than one:

All-out Thrill and Chill

• All-day Pool Days – Resort-style pools are at the center of the action on the reimagined Caribbean pool deck, alongside a wider variety of seating and shade across casitas, in-pool loungers, daybeds and more. For a laidback adults-only escape, the Solarium introduces new touches, complete with the favorite Samba Grill and dedicated bars.
• The Perfect Storm – The multistory trio, the Cyclone and Typhoon racing waterslides and the SuperCell champagne bowl, maxes out on thrill with twists and turns, whether racing friends and family or time.
• Splashaway Bay – Pool days: the tots and tweens edition features slides, water cannons, fountains, pools and whirlpools, plus two drench buckets that that make double the splash.
• The Lime & Coconut – The signature poolside bar, across two locations, serves up its popular classics and twists, live music and all the vibes day and night.
• El Loco Fresh – A poolside fiesta of flavors is in store, including tacos, burritos and quesadillas.

Amped-up Flavors and Nights Out

• Pesky Parrot – Making its way to Allure following a standout debut on the new Utopia of the Seas, the Caribbean tiki bar serves up fruit-based cocktails made with rum, tequila and gin, alongside frozen drinks and surprises.
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade – All ages have a seat at the table to catch live games on dozens of TVs, play arcade classics and refuel on tasty bar fare and ice-cold brews.
• The Mason Jar Southern Restaurant & Bar – Only on Wonder and Utopia of the Seas today, this hot spot is where Southern comfort food meets Royal Caribbean’s hospitality, live country music and more.

Adventures for Everyone

• Ultimate Abyss – The adrenaline-pumping experience brings to the table its memorable 10 stories of twists, turns, lights and sounds. Plus, vacationers can cool off their nerves with shaved ice in a variety of flavors – the latest addition to Wipe Out Bar’s menu.
• Royal Escape Room – Apollo 18: Lunar Landing – The latest of the Royal Escape Room lineup puts families and friends in the hot seat of the command center – in 1973 – as they look for clues and solve complex puzzles to land Apollo 18 on the moon before time runs out.
• Laser Tag – The Studio B ice rink transforms into a glow-in-the-dark laser tag arena for vacationers to challenge each other and go head-to-head in Battle for Planet Z.
• Adventure Ocean – Kids can choose their own immersive adventures across a new layout. Highlights include climbable creations at Play Place, the AO Theater, hands-on art, science and tech at Workshop; physical, interactive games at Arena; the Hangout; plus dedicated programs to engage all the senses for babies and younger kids.
• Social298 – A 360-degree transformation of the teen spaces boasts video games, music, movies and plenty of ways to kick back with new friends.

Plus, the addition of the new Ultimate Panoramic Suites above *Allure’s* bridge, offering 200-degree ocean views, adds to the lineup of returning favorites. Onboard, guests can enjoy everything from Royal Caribbean’s signature show-stopping entertainment across air, ice, water, and stage, to adrenaline-pumping activities like rock climbing and FlowRider surf simulators. Popular spots such as the Schooner Bar, Bow & Stern English pub, Italian classics at Giovanni’s Table, and American steakhouse Chops Grille will also be back, ensuring a wide range of dining and entertainment options.

Following the success of the enhanced Oasis of the Seas in 2019, Allure is the latest in the revolutionary Oasis Class to be reimagined as part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplified program, which began in 2018.

Allure will be one of six bold Royal Caribbean vacations sailing from five destinations across Europe for summer 2025 before heading to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in November 2025. Vacationers looking for a tropical escape can choose from a selection of 6- to 8-night vacations to the eastern Caribbean and The Bahamas, featuring stops at award-winning destinations like Perfect Day at CocoCay and the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island in Nassau, The Bahamas, opening in late 2025.

About Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International, a division of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has been crafting unforgettable vacations for over 50 years. With innovative ships and private destinations, the cruise line offers a unique blend of experiences, from thrills to dining and entertainment, catering to every type of traveler. Voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 21 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean delivers memorable adventures across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including its top-rated private destination, Perfect Day at CocoCay in The Bahamas.

Stay updated by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visiting www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For more information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN, or contact their travel advisor.

SOURCE Royal Caribbean International

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The Hammock Coast beaches are perfect for taking away the cares of everyday life. Numerous national magazines have, in fact, noted that some of South Carolina’s best beaches are found on the Hammock Coast.

Those beach communities each have their own vibe and charm.

Murrells Inlet, for example, is home to Brookgreen Gardens, a world-renowned sculpture and botanical show case across 9,127 acres, and Huntington Beach State Park, a USA Today/10 Best nominee where visitors can relax in more than 180 campsites, and offers some of the best birding opportunities on the East Coast. At the 2,000-acre state park, you can even explore historic Atalaya Castle. Seriously, the Hammock Coast has a real castle at the beach!

Murrells Inlet is also known as the “Seafood Capital of South Carolina.” Originally a fishing village on a protected inlet, the community boasts some of the best sea food in the South! The Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, a half-mile-long board walk, allows visitors to experience the salt-marsh ecosystem while restaurants, shops, parasailing, jetskiing and fishing excursions all beckon.

Pawleys Island is the oldest seaside resort in America and is still a great place to enjoy a quiet, laid-back vacation. As the birth place of the Pawleys Island handmade rope hammock, relaxation has a long history here. The historic island has no neon and no commercial development (no, not even a single store or gas station); however, there are two historic inns and myriad homes for rent. And just over the short causeway are first-class restaurants and boutique shops.

Families have been devoted to Litchfield Beach for generations. Little wonder, then, that Tripadvisor has named it one of the Top 10 beaches in America.

Award-winning golf, with 13 courses within a 15-minute drive, can be enjoyed on the Hammock Coast, too. Many are built on former rice plantations, giving a graciously Southern golf experience. Three of Golf Magazine’s “Top 100 You Can Play” are here.

For the history buff, Georgetown is South Carolina’s third oldest city, founded in 1729, and the beaches of DeBordieu Colony are just across the bridge. Five museums, including the South Carolina Maritime Museum, are all within the waterfront historic district. Self-guided walking tours offer insight into the town’s 66 National Historic Register properties. Historic American figures such as George Washington and Harriett Tubman are intertwined in our rich history.

Andrews, located 18 miles inland from Georgetown, offers the perfect place to experience the natural world. From sporting clays to kayaking along the winding Black River, Andrews is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream.

Throughout the Hammock Coast, visitors discover tempting culinary delights. When the hardest part of vacation is deciding where to eat, you know you’re in the right spot! From fine dining to Southern-fried goodness, myriad eclectic, locally owned restaurants will whet your appetite.

On South Carolina’s Hammock Coast, rediscover life with no schedules. The only itinerary you may need is a tide chart.

For information, go to www.HammockCoastSC.com

The post Welcome to South Carolina’s Hammock Coast appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Day 1

Stockton is full of surprises. Fill up on a juicy burger at JJ & Freddies, shop at Savvy Scavengers, and bag your candy at Sweet Alice’s. Stroll the town to find memory-making opportunities with the artistic Stockton Adventures murals! Learn something new at the Stockton Heritage Museum, featuring N-scale model trains and Kraft Foods’ history (Fun fact: Kraft started in Stockton)

Take in magnificent views while heading to Apple River for an outdoor adventure! Fuel up at Thriving Thistle Market with fresh-made smoothies and take a journey to Apple River Canyon State Park. Unplug, relax, and enjoy nature!
Cruise the historic Stagecoach Trail towards Scales Mound. Stop into the Country House Grocery for last-minute essentials and follow the scenic route to Galena. Explore Galena’s Historic Main Street, ending with a delicious dinner and live music performed by local musicians.

Day 2

On your way to Elizabeth, stop at the Long Hollow Scenic Overlook to soak in stunning views. Enjoy breakfast at E-town or Lola’s Deli and treasure hunting at Common Cents Resale, Elizabeth Grand Antique Co., and Three Sisters Sweet Shoppe. Pick your own pumpkins at Dittmar Farms and check out the Apple River Fort State Historic Site to experience Black Hawk War history.

Indulge in a tasty lunch at Cajun Jack’s and delicious local brews at the Highway 20 Brewing Company before heading to Hanover. Enjoy a scenic hike along the Apple River at the beautiful Wapello Land & Water Reserve. For the drive back to

Galena, consider following Blackjack Road for a scenic pit stop at Chestnut Mountain Resort, an all-season resort with zip-lining, an alpine slide, Segway tours, boat rides, and Skiing!
Menominee and East Dubuque are calling! Delight in dinner at Timmerman’s Supper Club, nestled among the bluffs of the Mississippi River, or tour Berning Acres Dairy Farm. Millennium Bar & Marina and Frentress Lake Marina are great spots to watch beautiful sunsets! Head back to Galena for an epic magic show with P.T. Murphy!

Day 3

Some local breakfast favorites include Otto’s Place, Charlie’s Place, Paradise Grill, and Galena Bakehouse. Hit up Galena’s Main Street for an incredible shopping experience with more than 125 independently owned stores. Get your history fix on a tour of U.S Grant’s Home, The Dowling House, and The Old Blacksmith Shop. Hop on a tour with Galena Trolley Company to further discover the beautiful homes and views that are often raved about.

Day 4

Take a self-guided tour of the Historical DeSoto House Hotel before continuing to Warren for a beer tasting at Pecatonica Beer Company. Enjoy a delicious burger at a small community with a hoppin’ bar called Nora Bar in Nora and venture back onto the beautiful Stagecoach Trail to Galena.

The last stop to complete the tour of Galena Country is Woodbine. Search for specialty gifts at Nature’s Treasure or stop for a round of golf at Woodbine Bend. Speaking of golf, golf enthusiasts won’t want to miss Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.
Galena Country transports people to one-of-a-kind experiences and adventures. Some historic, some timeless, and some brand-new, but always original! Start planning a trip today by browsing VisitGalena.org

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Located in the crossroads of the Civil War, Hagerstown & Washington County, MD is known for its rich history with South Mountain State Battlefield, Antietam National Battlefield. And there’s a diverse cultural scene.

Hagerstown’s Arts & Entertainment District is home to the Maryland Theatre and Performing Arts Complex, offering year-round shows, concerts and events. The Maryland Symphony Orchestra makes its home at the theatre. Our Museum of Fine Arts, boasts an outstanding permanent collection with an active schedule of exhibitions. The urban Cultural Trail connects our A&E District with the Museum at City Park.

Outdoor recreation is one of the most popular reasons people love to come to Washington County. The majority of Maryland’s Appalachian Trail runs N/S along South Mountain in the county. The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal and the Potomac River create our Southern border. With FIVE National Parks, and EIGHT State Parks, there are an abundance of options for hiking, biking, kayaking, boating, birding, photography or whatever you like to do outdoors.

Our parks offer a range of amenities-everything from historic monuments and battlefields to waterways, with camping, trails, boat launches, and abundant educational opportunities. We also have three Canal Towns along the C&O Canal in Washington County: Hancock, Sharpsburg and Williamsport. They each offer everything needed for hikers and bikers of the Canal, from nutritious meals, bicycle repairs and bike-friendly places to lay your head.

Escape the highway and cruise in on our Hip & Historic Scenic Byways – for a delightful road trip to explore charming towns, the splendor of nature and to find hidden gems! Museums, Civil War history, pick-your-own orchards, country cooking and elegant dining, antiques, outlets, a cavern and 5 National Parks comprise just portions of our byways.

The Antietam Campaign Scenic Byway

This renowned battle with 23,000 casualties of the Civil War took place at Antietam, near Sharpsburg, and prompted President Lincoln to issue the Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Learn about CivilWar medicine at the Pry House Museum. Annual events include the Antietam Memorial Illumination, with 23,110 lights placed along a five-mile driving route, each December.

The C&O Canal Scenic Byway

Originally built to move goods from Washington DC to the west, the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal is now a hub of recreational activity, with hiking, biking, bird watching, horse-back riding and more. Williamsport, MD is its geographical center, and visitors here can experience the Canal first-hand with ranger-led boat rides and towpath tours. Stay at a Lock House to experience life as it was “back in the day” and scarf up a healthy lunch at Lotus Moon Café in Williamsport. In Hancock, MD, visitors can pick up theWestern Maryland Rail Trail, a paved portion that runs alongside the towpath, to Fort Frederick State Park. But first, grab some pie, snacks and more at the Blue Goose Fruit Market & Bakery!

The Maryland Historic National Road Scenic Byway

Here, the journey is the destination. Carved through forests, mountains and rivers, it was the marvel of its age. It stoked the dreams of untold thousands who followed this macadam and cobblestone ribbon into the American frontier. Begun in 1811 to carry settlers and trade from the great capital of Baltimore into the then-wilds of Illinois, drive along a bygone route once run by horse drawn wagons and coaches.

We invite you to come and see our role in the nation’s history and to soak in the breath-taking scenery. Discover YOUR America! The Best Views Are Yours here in Hagerstown-Washington County, MD.

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Just 25 minutes north of Dallas, Frisco is the go-to place for fun in the DFW Metroplex. Recently ranked the safest city in the nation, again, by Smartasset, Frisco boasts an environment full of attractions for families, sports lovers, business goers, and the everyday visitor. With a boundless calendar of events, more than 400 restaurants, and award-winning resorts and hotels, it’s easy to see why Frisco is known as The City That Plays.

Home to several professional sports organizations, including the Dallas Cowboys, FC Dallas, Dallas Stars, Frisco RoughRiders, as well as PGA of America’s headquarters, Frisco is the ultimate sports destination. Go behind the scenes of America’s team on a tour of The Star, the World Headquarters of the Dallas Cowboys. Love soccer? Frisco’s own major league soccer team FC Dallas kicks off their season in March. You can learn about the history of soccer through modern technology at the National Soccer Hall of Fame. It’s an immersive experience for visitors as they try their hand at goal tending through virtual reality, pose for the cup-winning picture, or deign your own scarf. Prefer baseball? Frisco is home to a minor league baseball team, the Frisco RoughRiders, who play at Riders Field. The stadium features a “cool” way to watch the game in a lazy river.

For the perfect blend of history and entertainment, discover Frisco’s growing museum district. Play on the largest game of Pong at the National Video game Museum. Inside of the Museum of the American Railroad, check out TrainTopia–a miniature world connected by model trains that bring visitors into a space of appreciation for the rail system. And let your kids try more than 100 different professions such as firefighter and podcaster at KidZania, a city built for kids, and run by kids.

When it comes to arts and culture, the city has an impressive public arts trail with more than 65 pieces of art displayed, as well as the Texas Sculpture Garden, which is the largest private collection of contemporary Texas sculpture and made publicly available, and plenty ofInstagram-worthy murals in the historic Rail District.

If shopping is your sport, Frisco offers more than 9 million square feet of retail space. Whether you stop at Stonebriar Centre, one of the largest shopping malls in North Texas or pop into a charming, locally owned boutique, you’re sure to find something that’s just the right fit.

As one of the fastest growing cities in the U.S., there’s always a new gem to discover. Omni PGA Frisco Resort, the largest resort currently under construction, opens May 2023. The resort features two 18-hole championship golf courses, a two-acre putting green, a lighted 10-hole short course, entertainment district,13 dining options, 500 guest rooms and suites, and 10 luxury ranch houses.

Alongside Omni PGA Frisco Resort and PGA of America making the north side of Frisco home, Universal Parks & Resorts has announced they will be building a first of its kind park and hotel in Frisco. The project will feature a 300-person hotel and a park designed for young children that will host a variety ofUniversal characters and themes.

From sports to resorts, to the arts and parks, no matter the way you play, Frisco has something for everyone.

VISITFRISCO.COM

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Nestled in the heart of Minnesota lake country, the Park Rapids Lakes Area serves as a source of peace, inspiration, and adventure. Hundreds of pristine lakes, winding rivers, miles of paved and off-road trails, and the headwaters of the Mississippi River provide the ideal opportunity to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The community’s charming small-town hospitality is surpassed only by its endless opportunities to experience nature. Be forewarned, the laidback spirit of lake life is known for capturing hearts and minds and frequently turns visitors into full-time residents.

The Mighty Mississippi

As a bucket list destination for many Americans, the first stop for most visitors isa trip to Itasca State Park to walk across the Mighty Mississippi. Established in 1891as Minnesota’s first state park, it provides extraordinary views of over 100 lakes, huge virgin pines forests, a Wilderness Sanctuary, and a Scientific and Natural Area. Itasca State Park is an outdoor oasis with boat tours, lodging, camping, dining, and equipment rentals.

Lovin’ Lake Life

With over 75 public access lakes and more than 50 lakeside resorts and campgrounds, the joys of a North woods summer are never out of reach.

Area lakes boast a variety of fish ranging from trophy walleye and muskie to crappies and sunfish that are perfect for a fresh caught fish fry. Cool off during the heat of the day by tapping into local water sports including skiing, tubing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and kayaking. Cap a memorable day on the lake with a leisurely pontoon ride at sunset and enjoy a shoreline campfire while watching for the breathtaking northern lights.

The Bold North

Explore an extensive trail system and three state forests for an up-close view of majestic pines and a refreshing dose of outdoor adventure. Whether you prefer quiet hikes in the woods, pedaling on winding paved paths or cranking up the throttle on an ATV, there are hundreds of miles of trails to discover.

Set your sights a notch higher with aerial adventures, a zip line, or a trek up the steps of the Aiton Heights Fire Tower for a bird’s eye view of Itasca State Park.

Local Fare & Fun

Famous for parking in the middle of Main Street, Park Rapids offers a one-of-a-kind downtown experience featuring homegrown restaurants, numerous ice cream and candy stores, wine bar, brewery, and much more. Downtown Park Rapids is also home to the area’s signature summer event series, 2nd Street Stage, which draws a thousand or more people each week to its free outdoor concerts.

Less than 10 minutes from Park Rapids, the small town of Dorset is the self-proclaimed Restaurant Capital of the World. The town is home to one restaurant for every 10 residents and hosts a unique food extravaganza each August called the Taste of Dorset.

Plan your adventure to the Park Rapids Lakes Area and escape to a place that rejuvenates your mind, body and soul. After all, you’re not just getting away, you’re making memories to last a lifetime. Start planning today at www.parkrapids.com.

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Moab, Utah, usually conjures images of warm, sunny days spent among awe-inspiring landscapes of unique red rock. While summer is the most popular time to visit, the city and surrounding desert are brimming with exciting activities year-round. New adventures ebb and flow with the area’s hot summer days and mild winter months. Read on to explore the best aspects of visiting during each season and discover the ideal time for your trip.

Spring | March–May

As days get longer and the red rock starts to warm, travelers from around the world visit Moab to shake off a cold winter. Midday temperatures generally reach 70ºF, making spring perfect for getting outside.

The trails come alive with wildflowers, so be sure to pack your hiking boots. Trails like Delicate Arch, Grandstaff Canyon, and Corona Arch should be on every hiker’s to-do list. Mountain bikers can’t miss the famed Slickrock Trail or the Moab Brand trail network, both of which are usually in great condition come springtime. To add a little more adrenaline to your trip, schedule a four-wheeling tour with one of the guides in town. Downtown Moab is full of locally owned outfitters, art galleries, and restaurants–spend an evening wandering through town for a taste of the local lifestyle.

Summer | June–August

During the hotter summer months, temperatures can climb over 100ºF, so it’s best to plan activities for the early morning or evening. Long summer days lend themselves well to packed itineraries; just make sure you have plenty of water and sun protection. Then, stay up late to stargaze; Moab’s night skies are some of the darkest in the world.

Escape the heat by camping at Warner Lake Campground in the La Sal Mountains, where you’ll have easy access to less-traveled trails. Or, head to the Colorado River to cool down with kayaking, whitewater rafting, or a relaxing moonlight cruise.

Fall | September–November

Once fall comes around, Moab is in full bloom. The river has warmed, higher elevation trails are thawed, and temperatures drop to a comfortable 70ºF. It’s a great time to hit the trails, visit the national parks, and camp along the Colorado River under Moab Canyon’s commanding red cliffs. Mountain bikers can generally access all of the popular Whole Enchilada Trail, along with other higher elevation trails.

In the Manti-La Sal National Forest, the trees start to take on their vivid fall colors. For an experience you can’t find any other time of year, take a scenic drive on the La Sal Mountain Loop Road. It’s 63 miles in length and takes nearly two hours to drive. Pack a picnic and take your time, the forest is incredible during the fall months.

Winter | December–February

Winter in Moab may be one of the city’s best kept secrets. The crowds dissipate and the red rock looks spectacular under snow. You’ll likely also find great rates on accommodations during off-peak season. With temperatures between 40ºF and 50ºF, the crisp air will be invigorating as you hike trails you’ll practically have all to yourself.

Fisher Towers Trail in particular is a beautiful and accessible winter hiking option. Plus, the drive upHighway 128 provides unbeatable views of snowcapped red rock. Afterwards, spend some time exploring Arches and Canyon lands National Parks to see the most popular landmarks without the crowds.

Moab is an oasis for outdoor recreation any time of year. No matter when you choose to visit, you’re sure to create an adventure you’ll always remember. Visit DiscoverMoab.com to start planning your trip and to learn how to recreate responsibly.

The post Moab, Utah: An Epic Destination in Any Season appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Summertime. The days are longer, the sun shines brighter, Lake Michigan is calling and Manistee County, Michigan, welcomes you to the perfect destination for a getaway.

Begin your exploration of Pure Michigan with a taste of Manistee. Set along Lake Michigan in the northwest part of the state, Manistee County has 25 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and beaches, three Lake Michigan harbors, inland lakes, 270 miles of rivers and a world-class casino.

Charming, historic towns and tours, fertile farms and lush orchards make a lovely place to sip bourbons, wines, ciders and beers.

Craft brews paired with local fare or farm distilled spirits served in a rustic base-camp setting, you are invited for a taste of the local craft beverage scene on a Brew, Wine and Spirits Tour. This self-guided tour found at www.visitmanisteecounty.com takes you to several destinations around Manistee County, all serving up the best of our region’s beers, wines and spirits.

For a one-of-a-kind experience, Iron Fish Distillery in Thompsonville, Mich., in northern Manistee County, is Michigan’s first farm distillery growing its own grains and distilling spirits on 120 acres in a rural, agricultural setting. This stop is truly not to be missed and a prefect way to enjoy all kinds of bourbons, gin, vodka, maple syrup and great food and hospitality.

North Channel Brewing, located along the Manistee River in Manistee, is the perfect setting to enjoy craft brews and great food, while just steps away from Manistee’s downtown shops. North Channel Brewing weaves a little of Manistee’s history into everything they do in their hip, industrial-style factory setting. You may even catch a freighter moving through the channel as you take in views of the historic downtown.

Stay close to Manistee’s historic Downtown and you will find several fantastic dining stops, all within walking distance. Blue Fish Kitchen + Bar offers new American dining in a relaxed, lakeshore atmosphere. This Featuring an extensive wine list, craft beer and artisan cocktails, hand-cut steaks, farm-to-table and artisan fare, and a large selection of Great Lakes fish artfully prepared by its team of chefs.

Nestled in the Garden Level of the TJ Ramsdell Building, TJ’s Pub is a Downtown landmark and home to a massive Michigan Craft Beer selection, but also an excellent dining establishment. With many craft beer selections rotating seasonally, the occasional tap take over, and various flight boards ready to quench your thirst, this is an ideal spot to enjoy a local craft beer any day of the year, along with tasty food.

All the downtown Manistee restaurants are part of The Stee’ Social District, where adults can enjoy adult beverages from place to place in designated areas in a designated cup.

Off the beaten path in Kaleva, Northern Natural’s tasting room offers several premium hard ciders made from several varieties of Manistee and Leelanau County-certified organic heirloom apples that provide clean, crisp, apple flavors with a dash of sweet. By the pour or by the glass, bottles and growlers are available, along with a nice selection of award-winning wines. Open year-round, a gourmet food truck will delight your palette and ease your appetite.

Located in Arcadia Mich., Ketch 22 Kafe is a delightful gourmet food truck that creates authenticAmerican cuisine with a creative culinary twist. It serves just the right bite, and worthy of its amazingly scenic location on picturesque Route M22.

From historic sites to artisan markets, these are just a few of the places on tours that cover 835miles and take you to 375 sites across Manistee County. Although you may not cover that much ground in one visit, these tours provide plenty of reasons to come back again and again.

Just pick a spot, choose your dates, gather your travel companions, and head in the direction of Manistee for a memorable getaway.

The post Sit, Sip, Taste and Enjoy in Manistee County, Michigan appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Now more than ever, it’s important to prioritize having some fun. You want to escape the stress of work and home and go somewhere relaxing. You also want a destination that isn’t overly crowded, stuffy, or expensive. More than anything, you just want to go somewhere where you can just be yourself.

You want Lodi, California.

Lodi is one of Northern California wine country’s best-kept secrets. A scenic masterpiece, it’s located at the point where the San Francisco Bay Area transitions into the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Lodi is widely known as the Zinfandel Capital of the world, famous for producing the grapes that make up a portfolio of more than 125 award-winning varietals. But there is so much more to this place than wine.

Whether its eating at one the award-winning eateries, paddle-boarding, hiking, or just wrapping yourself in the luxury of a resort hotel, Lodi has something for everyone who is looking to get away, unplug from the workaday world, and destress for a few days.

Lodi isn’t just about the wine–but if, to you, unwinding doesn’t happen without a glass of bliss, there is no better wine destination on the globe. Lodi has more than 85 boutique wineries, some of which are run by 5th-generation winemakers. Zinfandel is a staple, but Lodi also leads other California wine grape growing in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc. In fact, Lodi has 110,000 acres for wine growing, with 23,850 of those as Certified Green Acres under the Lodi American Viticultural Area (AVA) for sustainable wine growing.

You can always find a friendly Lodi vintner ready to line up bottles for a personal tasting or lead you through a tour of the vineyard and production facilities. On most weekends, there’s at least one winery holding a unique event for connoisseurs and casual sippers alike.

Who can relax on an empty stomach? Lodi has you more covered there, too. No matter what you’re craving, from American comfort food, farm-to-table fare, or fine dining, you can find it fixed up by some of the best chefs in the country.

For instance, Steve Ding’s Woodbridge Crossing features fine dining in a beautifully restored 19th-century brick building in downtown Woodbridge. The eatery is famous for its prime rib, but you can also find bottomless champagne brunch on Sundays. And of course, it features a full assortment of Lodi wines.

If your taste buds are calling from something more international, there’s Pietro’s Trattoria, a farm-to-fork Italian eatery that specializes in pasta, chicken parm, and homemade gnocchi. There’s also Thai Kitchen, a quaint hole in the wall where you can find big and authentic Thai flavor. (Try the green papaya salad, a perfect marriage of spicy and sweet with a unique peanut crunch.) Or for sushi, look no further than Sushi Komachi for the freshest Japanese delicacies infused with a California flourish.

There are also hours of outdoor recreation for the adventurer in you. Scenic trails, both short and long, abound around the Lodi Lake Wilderness Area, home to millions of migratory birds and lush vegetation. Lodi Lake Park is also ideal for family kayaking, paddle boarding, rafting, tubing, canoeing, and fishing.

After a day filled with wine, food, and fun, you want to relax. Lodi has accommodations for every comfort level and budget. And if you grow to love Lodi as much as many visitors do, there are also vacation houses for rent that will make this destination and its people your home away from home.

For more information or to plan your visit, head to www.visitlodi.com.

The post 85+ Award Winning Wineries In Lodi, California appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Creek, Lake, or Bay? Have it Your Way!

Paddle Clear Creek – The lush waterway of Clear Creek, which borders League City to the north, is surrounded by so much greenery that during spring and summer it could be mistaken for the jungles of Costa Rica. Bring your kayak (or rent one from Clear Creek Kayaks) and launch onto the Clear Creek Paddle Trail for an experience that will have you feeling worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Enjoy scenic views along your journey and keep your eye out for resident wildlife, including wading birds, alligators, and deer on the shorelines.

Explore Clear Lake – If lakeside leisure is more your style, Clear Lake is the place to be. The lake is the heart of Bay Area Houston and a hub for water recreation of all kinds. Fishing is a popular activity in this area, so bring your tackle box and fishing pole along. If you’re new to the sport or simply want some local insight, you can book a fishing charter and receive guidance from an experienced fisherman. For the romantics, sunset cruises are a wonderful way to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the water at dusk. Adventure seekers can try their hand at sailing or a heart-pumping ride on a jet ski.

Sail Away on Galveston Bay – A visit to Galveston Bay offers thrill rides—like the Boardwalk Beast speed boat, fishing trips, and sailing lessons. You may even spot some playful bottlenose dolphins during your time on the water. Check out our new Bay Area Houston Water Recreation Guide to learn more countless options for fun on the water.

Stellar Site Seeing

Step into History – The League City Historic District is brimming with charm, from its sprawling oaks to its historic homes, shops, and museums. Stop by League Park and experience a Hallmark movie come-to-life. This picturesque park features a gazebo, beautiful mini mural, and expansive playground for kids of all abilities. The Historic District is also home to the West Bay Common School Children’s Museum where you can experience a hands-on history program and see what a day at school was like in a late 1800s one-room school house. Take a self-guided walking or driving tour of historic homes, stop by Helen’s Garden for picture-perfect scenery, and finish your day with a delectable meal from one of our local favorite eateries.

Launch into Space – Space Center Houston welcomes you into an interactive history of human space exploration and is just a short 10-minute drive north of League City. Check out the newly restored Historic Mission Control, walk beneath the flown SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, step inside a shuttle carrier aircraft and the space shuttle mounted on top, see the behemoth Saturn V rocket, and get up close to historic space exploration artifacts.

Swoon-Worthy Shopping

Explore League City’s outstanding collection of popular boutiques and shops sprinkled throughout town. (Download this shopping guide and boutique map to plan your route.). Glass Mermaids offers a trove of nautical-themed home décor and gifts, while boutiques like Adelaides, Brave Boutique, Sweet Mia’s Boutique, and The Salted Hippie are stocked with gorgeous clothing and other fantastic finds. Stop by Niche for a hands-on jewelry making experience you’ll love. Pick out your own beads and baubles from among hundreds of different colors, styles, and designs and create a custom piece of jewelry. Shop in beautiful historic homes when you visit the Shoppes at Founder’s Square in the Historic District and discover a little bit of everything at Texas Artisan, including home décor and Texas-made items. Not far from League City is Baybrook Mall, an all-inclusive shopping destination with restaurants and a Star Cinema Grill movie theater where you can order cocktails and dinner during the film.

Ready to plan your League City getaway? – With accommodations for every budget—from the lake front fabulous South Shore Harbour Resort, to the stylish Fairfield Inn & Suites—staying in League City places you at the gateway to the best of Bay Area Houston. Book your stay today.

The post Houston’s Hidden Gem: Lakeside Leisure & Family Fun in League City – Situated along Clear Lake, you’ll find water adventures, world-class sites, and an up-and-coming shopping scene that make this town a must-see summer stop. appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.