Upon arrival at Canopy Portland Waterfront, I was immediately struck by the kindness of the valet, who immediately explained to me the hotel’s very simple and convenient procedure of requesting my vehicle via text, before immediately offering to help remove my luggage from the vehicle. Stepping into the lobby, I was welcomed by the warmth of the staff. As I approached the front desk, their impeccable hospitality shone through as I was efficiently checked in and informed about the various amenities and services available to enhance my stay. The staff went above and beyond to provide me with recommendations for local dining and activities, ensuring that I got the most out of my time in Portland. I should also mention that throughout my three-day stay, I had to visit that front desk quite frequently for various reasons. Despite encountering several different staff, they all greeted me with the same warm smile, and were all equally as kind and helpful.

The room, however, was where the magic truly unfolded. The Canopy Portland Waterfront offers a variety of room types. I didn’t have the privilege of staying in a Bay View King Room, as they were all booked, and I was a walk-in booking on very short notice. However, I did stay in the Deluxe King Room with City View, and the moment I walked in I was struck by the beautiful view of Portland that stretched out before me. The room was thoughtfully designed, exuding a bright, chic ambiance that perfectly balanced modern aesthetics with warm, inviting textures. The elegant nautical wood tones, tasteful décor, and thoughtful lighting design created a soothing environment, instantly making me feel at ease. The room was spotlessly clean and well-maintained, a testament to the high standards of housekeeping.

The plush king-sized bed was a cocoon of comfort, ensuring that every night’s sleep was restful. From the heavenly bed linens to the oversized bed pillows, no detail was overlooked. It was a place of solace, a space where I could recharge after a day of exploration. The addition of a chaise lounge and a desk only added to the room’s functionality and comfort.
The bathroom was equipped with a rainfall shower. The amenities provided, from the premium bath products to the fluffy towels, elevated the bathing experience to a whole new level. The large mirror and well-lit space made it easy to prepare for the day ahead or unwind in the evening.

Moreover, the room was equipped with modern conveniences, including a smart TV and high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring that I could stay connected and entertained. The in-room Nespresso machine was a delightful touch, offering a fresh cup of coffee to start the day.

Whenever I give a review of a hotel, I prefer not to stay in the hotel’s most luxurious accommodations so that I can get an honest experience of what the hotel has to offer. However, in this case, I felt so spoiled in my deluxe room that I now have to go back and stay in the Canopy’s most luxurious room, just to experience it.

The Canopy Portland Waterfront’s staff was a shining example of what exceptional hospitality should be. From the valets who greeted me upon arrival to the front desk personnel who were always ready to assist, their dedication and genuine warmth were evident throughout my stay.

Housekeeping, too, deserves special commendation. They consistently maintained the room’s impeccable condition, ensuring that it was always a joy to return to after a day of adventure. The attention to detail and commitment to guest comfort was truly impressive. I greatly appreciated the hotel very conveniently placing a QR code in the room that allowed me to tip the housekeeper.

The Luna Rooftop Bar and Patio at Night

It was not just the efficiency and professionalism of the staff that made the difference; it was their genuine passion for creating a memorable experience for me as a guest. Whether it was a friendly chat in the elevator or a personalized recommendation for a dish at the hotel’s restaurant, the staff made me feel like a treasured friend visiting their home.
One of the standout features of the Canopy Portland Waterfront is undoubtedly the spectacular Luna Rooftop Bar. Perched high above the bustling streets of Portland, this unique establishment offers a breathtaking, unobstructed panoramic view of Casco Bay. As someone who appreciates both the beauty of the natural world and the craft of mixology, this rooftop was nothing short of paradise.

Upon arrival at Luna Rooftop Bar, I was instantly captivated by the open-air setting and the modern yet relaxed atmosphere. The wooden deck and stylish furnishings exuded a coastal elegance that perfectly complemented the stunning vistas beyond. It was a sublime spot to unwind, whether sipping on a signature cocktail or simply gazing at the mesmerizing sunset over the bay.

The cocktail menu was a carefully curated masterpiece with a range of creative concoctions that celebrated the flavors of the region. I had the pleasure of indulging in a “Tijuana Temptress” with Clase Azul and a refreshing blend of hopped syrup, grapefruit, lime, and bubbles. The bartenders were not just masters of mixology, they were also friendly and knowledgeable about the local area. The place was beyond busy, yet I was waited on with care as though I was the only one at the bar.

The rooftop was also an ideal place to socialize with fellow travelers or locals. During my visit, I met some fascinating individuals who shared their love for the city, and I even made a few new friends over a shared appreciation for the scenery and the libations. The atmosphere was convivial and warm, making it easy to connect with others and create memorable experiences. My server was a gentleman named Petar, who was the epitome of exceptional service; the perfect balance between being personable and having a sense of humor, and the ability to make sure his customers have everything they need.

Amazing Breakfast Spread at Salt Yard Canopy PortlandWaterfront Hotel

A great day starts with a great breakfast, and the Salt Yard at Canopy Portland Waterfront set the bar incredibly high. Each morning, I indulged in the hotel’s breakfast offerings, and I was consistently impressed with the quality, variety, and service.

The Salt Yard offered a delightful range of options, catering to various tastes and dietary preferences. From fresh fruit to pastries, eggs to local cheeses, and a selection of gourmet coffees and teas, there was something to satisfy every craving. The menu celebrated local ingredients and flavors, providing a genuine taste of Portland’s culinary scene. I ordered the Classic Breakfast, and as a person who has dined everywhere one can in the city, I can honestly say it is the best breakfast I have ever had in Portland, Maine.

What truly stood out was the professionalism and warmth of the Salt Yard’s staff. The servers were attentive without being intrusive, and their genuine interest in ensuring my breakfast experience was exceptional was evident. It was a pleasant way to start the day, with a delicious meal in a cozy and stylish environment.

In retrospect, my three-night stay at the Canopy Portland Waterfront in Portland, Maine, was more than just a hotel experience; it was an immersion into the soul of this beautiful coastal city. From the enchanting rooms that were a sanctuary of comfort and style to the exceptional staff who went above and beyond to ensure my stay was unforgettable, the Canopy PortlandWaterfront exceeded all expectations.

The Luna Rooftop Bar was a revelation, offering a unique perspective on the city and the bay, while the Salt Yard provided a delicious introduction to the culinary delights of Portland. This hotel is not just a place to stay; it’s a destination in and of itself.

Many hotels make the mistake of going above and beyond for the sake of being larger, offering an abundance of options that range from multiple restaurants to shops, spas and so on. Personally, I feel as though simplicity that knows how to do the important things right is the winning formula. Canopy offers everything one needs without overextending themselves, which allows them to do all of it perfectly.

As a frequent traveler and food and travel enthusiast, I hope you’ll take me seriously when I state, if you’re seeking an exceptional and truly authentic experience in the heart of Portland, look no further than the CanopyPortland Waterfront – it’s quite simply the best hotel experience I’ve ever had, and I can’t wait to return. •

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For the Self-Care Enthusiasts
Do you have someone in your life who deserves a little pampering? For those devoted to self-care, a spa experience at Mississippi’s premier oasis, Aqua Day Spa, makes for an ideal gift. With 6,000 square feet of pure relaxation, they offer massages, facials, scalp treatments, manicures, pedicures, and more. Keep an eye out for their holiday gift card specials. For those obsessed with lush lashes and bold brows, consider a gift card to Drench Day Spa and Lash Lounge.

Shop ‘til You Drop
Ridgeland boasts an array of local retailers and charming boutiques, making it the ultimate holiday shopping destination. The city’s “Wrap It in Ridgeland” promotion invites you to craft the perfect weekend itinerary, brimming with shopping, delectable dining options, and spirited drinks to keep your holiday spirits high.

Explore Hemline for designer apparel, accessories, and shoes from beloved brands. Arco Avenue has a collection of shoes to satisfy any footwear enthusiast. Libby Story is perfect for trendy tops and chic skirts, while CoatTails has the coziest and chicest coats.

But it’s not just about women’s fashion; Kinkade’s Fine Clothing caters to men, offering a wide range of attire for various occasions.

For the Unique Souls
For those who march to the beat of their own drum or love antiques, Repeat Street and Antique Mall of the South are treasure troves. Explore the 17,000 square feet of hand-selected furnishings, fashion, and more at Repeat Street. At Antique Mall of the South, discover one-of-a-kind home decor items, from collectible china to vintage furnishings.

For the Home Chefs
Whether you have a grandma who’s a casserole connoisseur or a sister-in-law inspired by the “Great British Bake Off,” Ridgeland caters to home chefs. The Everyday Gourmet has all the kitchen essentials, and they offer private and public cooking classes for those looking to sharpen their culinary skills. For edible gifts, J. Olive Fine Oils and Balsamics specializes in top-quality oils and vinegars that will elevate any dish.

For Adventurers
For those who can’t sit still, Ridgeland’s sports stores have you covered. Fleet Feet specializes in running shoes, Sportique offers top-notch ski gear, and a stunning selection of swimsuits, perfect for any adventurer.

Refueling in Ridgeland
After a long day of shopping, recharge with a delightful meal or a refreshing drink. Ridgeland’s dining scene offers something for every palate.

For a casual experience, consider Walk-On’s or Crab’s Seafood Shack. Walk-On’s offers a taste of the Big Easy with traditional Cajun and Creole dishes, while Crab’s Seafood Shack provides scenic waterfront dining with a vast seafood menu.

For am upscale dinner, Chef Derek Emerson’s restaurants, Caet and Local 463, are excellent choices. Caet features fresh seafood and decadent steaks, while Local 463 offers mouthwatering dishes like Dr. Pepper-Braised Beef Short Ribs.
To toast to a fairy-tale holiday weekend in Ridgeland, visit Dogmund Tavern for craft beer and creative cocktails in a whimsical setting. •

Ready to plan your holiday shopping weekend in Ridgeland? Visit www.visitridgeland.com/wrapit and plan your holiday getaway with Wrap It in Ridgeland.

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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 cuisine offered at 1^st City Café and Nine Flags Bar is a combination of long-standing favorites from the hotel’s past and new spins on American tradition. With a variety of fresh flavors, there’s something for everyone. Locals and tourists alike fall in love with the Napa Chopped Salad and appetizers like the “Trifecta” featuring guacamole, queso and salsa. The entrees are always showstoppers with dishes like Shrimp & Grits and Gruene Chicken Enchiladas.

The Republic Steakhouse offers a high-end dining experience that you’d expect to find in large cities, with the historic charm that Nacogdoches is known for. Featuring prime Texas beef, wild-caught seafood, and a well-rounded wine selection, the Republic will leave you wondering if you’ll ever have another meal that tops it. The intimate restaurant is the perfect way to wind down after a busy day. Tip: Try the wood-smoked Old Fashioned.

The mid-century modern boutique hotel is a must-see and do on your bucket list. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a girl’s weekend or a business convention, you’re in for a treat. Come hungry!

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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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Holmes County feels both close to everything and like a secluded escape at the same time. A quick drive from almost anywhere lands you amongst its rolling hills and picturesque scenery, where you’ll find a relaxing getaway that invites you to explore. Go on a culinary adventure throughout the region and you’ll discover everything from down-home comfort foods to approachable but elegant fare. Try scratch-made baked goods and beautifully crafted cheeses. Explore expertly tended vineyards and modern breweries. You’ll even find bulk foods to take home to stock your pantry. Come take a trip through the culinary heaven that is Ohio’s Amish Country.

Local Favorites

Billing itself as “A Gathering Place of Friends,” Rebecca’s Bistro in Walnut Creek makes its home in a log cabin dating back to the mid-1800s. Owners Rebecca and Jim Miller welcome guests with heart-warming breakfast and lunch dishes in the cozy cafe. Relax with a toasted marshmallow latte then dig into their signature stuffed French toast or creamed eggs with Swiss cheese on toasted sourdough. If you don’t order some of Rebecca’s tomato basil soup, you can purchase a quart to take home with you!

Visiting The Inn at Honey Run is a full experience, with their cottages and Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired accommodations, Open Air Art Museum, upscale dining and more than 50 stunning acres tucked into Holmes County. To craft the menu at Tarragon, their in-house restaurant, they source locally as much as possible, like honey from their hives, produce and herbs from their greenhouses and gardens. The chef-driven menu at Tarragon showcases delicacies like littleneck clams, fried pig ears and grilled pork chops.

You’ll feel like a kid in a candy store when you step through the doors of Miller’s Creamery in Millersburg. You won’t know what to try first! The flavor of the week? Orange or black cherry sherbet? Soft serve in a waffle cone? A scoop of chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream? Miller’s always delights its customers with decadent treats like hand-dipped ice cream, burgers, and sundaes. Be sure not to miss the irresistible puffles — a fresh, made-to-order bubble waffle rolled into a cup and then stuffed with your favorite ice cream and toppings.

Amish Inspired

Dine on cuisine influenced by the area’s Amish culture. Der Dutchman lets you bring your whole crew to feast on home-style Amish meals and enormous desserts. Can’t decide? Hit up the buffet loaded with broasted chicken, roast beef, noodles, and mashed potatoes. Visit the bakery to bring a taste of Amish cooking home with you: cream-filled donuts, Dutch apple pie, sweet rolls, jars of apple butter or Amish peanut butter spread, and so much more.

If you want to know where the locals eat in Holmes County, find a seat at the counter at Boyd & Wurthmann Restaurant in Berlin. The Amish and Mennonite staff will make you feel right at home. Breakfast starts early with 99-cent coffee, buttery biscuits, and buckwheat pancakes. Lunch and dinner fill you up with hot roast beef sandwiches, noodles over mashed potatoes, cheeseburgers, and pork chops. And did we mention the pie? Boyd & Wurthmann serves up almost 20 different varieties!

Local Sips

It’s not just what on your plate that’s special here. Several local wineries offer a fresh sip of flavor, too. Sunny Slope General Store in Big Prairie has been part of Holmes County for nearly a century, and in 2016 added a winery to the mix. Winemaker Tom Bright crafts a range of fruit wines in small batches. Kick back fireside with a Big Prairie White, a rich Elderberry wine or a cooling wine slushy while you savor deli sandwiches in the picnic area or catch local live music on the patio.

In Dover, Breitenbach Wine Cellars’ signature offerings include the crisp and sweet dandelion wine, the luscious blueberry wine, and the tart cherry wine. Grab a glass and stroll through Breitenbach’s lush hillside vineyards, then order freshly made salads and wood-fired pizzas from the cafe while you gather outside and listen to live music.

To try everything on tap at Millersburg Brewing Company, you’ll want to order a flight! Sip the hoppy French Ridge IPA or the grassy and floral Lot 21 Blonde ale. A visit to the brewery is an immersive experience: dig into hearty meals made with a gastropub flare like pot stickers and nontraditional fig and goat cheeseburgers while you watch brew master Marty Lindon at work through the glass.

Doughty Glen Winery at Guggisberg in Millersburg offers the ultimate in wine and cheese pairings. Nearby Guggisberg Cheese Factory is famous as the birthplace of Baby Swiss cheese. Pair the signature Swiss with a collection of local meats and a glass of Gewurztraminer. Make a weekend of it at Guggisberg by booking an overnight stay and going horseback riding.

Step inside a piece of history at Baltic Mill Winery, a turn-of-the-century flour mill converted into a winery. The old chutes and machinery offer a unique backdrop in Baltic Mill’s tasting room. Build a meat and cheese tray from local favorites like Pearl Valley Cheese and Baltic Country Meats. Their crisp Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio and Just Peachy are ideal summer sippers!

Speaking of wine and cheese, there’s Han’s Place, a winery and tasting room that’s part of Broad Run Cheese house in Dover. Build your own cheese melt from baby Swiss, Danish blue, or fontanelle, then pair it with a Cheesemaker’s Red, Han’s Favorite blend of cherry and cranberry wines or the always-popular Coal Miner’s Daughter watermelon wine.

No matter how long your stay in Ohio Amish Country, we want you to feel at home in our Holmes County. It’s about finding your way to unwind. Sleep in; eat cake for breakfast. Read your book beside the fire. Or wake early and sip some tea. There are adventures awaiting after all. Our hospitality hosts will help you make the most of your moments in Ohio Amish Country. You only have to ask and relax. Let us worry about making your stay great.

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Fox Hill is the passion project of native Wichitan John Hirschi who opened the farm-to-table restaurant and urban gardens to provide his community a place to gather and connect around the table.  His fervent belief is that it should be our goal to provide food that nourishes and is also sustainable for the environment.  With the gardens on site and harvests from local farmers, seasonality is highlighted on the ever-changing menu at Fox Hill.  

Chef Anand and his team create timeless, American cuisine, with special attention to regionality and sustainability. The handcrafted food from the farm fresh ingredients satisfies the goal of creating and serving intentional, delicious dishes that delight and challenge our patrons.  As a destination to relax, unwind, and indulge, Fox Hill beckons to those who truly seek to savor their dining experience. In addition to in-house dining, Fox Hill offers events from garden tours to wine dinners as well as ethnic nights.  Whether it is enjoying the chef driven “tapas style” small plates or a slow supper on the terrace, Fox Hill delivers elevated nourishment from the farm to the fork, fork to the soul.

Fox Hill is open for dinner throughout the week.  Visit our website at www.foxhilltx.com for upcoming events, hours of operation, and menus. We hope to see you very soon and welcome you into our home.

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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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