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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Fun in Full Bloom

Petals are falling in Fresno County, California, this winter. Journey through 70 miles of pink and white blossoms along the Fresno County Blossom Trail–a gorgeous representation of the county’s leading agricultural footprint. As a top agricultural producing region, some of Fresno County’s crops–almonds and oranges–begin to bloom in mid-February through the end of March. Drive through this flurry of petals to enjoy the ultimate California floral blizzard.

Several festivals and special events are held in celebration of the blooming orchards throughout the month. Learn about the different fruits from local experts and join in on the family fun at the Sanger Blossom Trail Festival; hop on the Hillcrest Tree Farm’s Blossom Trail Train ride; discover Kingsburg’s Swedish Village; or strap on those helmets to participate in the Kings River Blossom Trail Bike Ride.

Best of the Best Brews

Fresno’s County brewery scene is in full bloom all year round, and it’s an experience you can’t miss. Spend your winter evenings at our local beer gardens, where brewmasters are serving handcrafted beers underneath twinkling lights and with entertainment from local musicians.

Downtown Fresno’s Brewery District is a vibrant spot after dark, with Tioga Sequoia Brewing Company, Full Circle Brewing Company, and Procreations Brewing Company as the anchoring breweries, each offering their own unique twist on craft beer. Try more local hops on tap at the Rec Room Tap House or go for a handcrafted cocktail at Modernist Craft Cocktail Bar or Quail State Rooftop Bar.

In Clovis, tap into the one-of-a-kind hops being brewed at Summer Fox Brewing; enjoy a growler inside Crow and Wolf’s industrial-style tap room; and raise a glass at Tactical Ops Brewing, where their tap house pays homage to the U.S. Military and first responders. Choose from several brews at Blast & Brew, a pour-your-own tap house that also serves delicious pub food.

Where to Eat

Fresno County is the heartland of farm-to-fork dining with diverse cultural cuisines and home to an unparalleled food truck scene. Taste food created by restaurateurs with ingredients grown mere minutes from where your plate is served. Taste local favorites such as Senor Aji’s Peruvian Kitchen, Harris Ranch, Mochuelo (which specializes in Spanish tapas), and Sal’s Mexican Restaurant, a hometown classic for 80 years that serves delicious Mexican dishes. No other place has food trucks quite like Fresno and Clovis, from classic tacos trucks to unique trucks serving vegan food, teppanyaki and even stuffed baked potatoes. You’ll find a bit of everything at Fresno Street Eats food truck pop-ups and Gazebo Gardens.

While You’re There

No trip to Fresno County is complete until you’ve had a chance to experience its beautiful outdoor adventures. Fresno and Clovis are brimming with natural beauty; from scenic hiking trails, local parks, and conveniently located less than 90 minutes from Yosemite, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. For an urban adventure, explore Forestiere Underground Gardens, a subterranean home carved completely by hand. Art comes to life in Fresno’s Mural District, where local artists have left their mark for all to enjoy. Experience behind-the-scenes fun at the Fresno Chaffee Zoo or stroll through the boutique shops and antique malls in Old Town Clovis.

Find more information on vistifresnocounty.org.

The post Blossoms & Brews–A Fresno County Winter appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Fairfield–off the beaten path, but worth every bite! Fairfield, Iowa refuses to be categorized. It’s simultaneously both exciting and relaxing, with its serene landscapes that span from corn fields on the edge of town, to a delightful new age vibe that permeates this historic town.

Nestled in the rolling hills of southern Iowa, this town of 10,000 might be an out of the way drive. But it’s “home” to over 300 artists and musicians, a performing arts center, abundant outdoor space, and Maharishi International University. Fairfield has become a virtual melting pot of culture and creativity that has left an indelible mark on the community, especially the local food scene.

Foodies can choose from Indian, Thai, or Turkish food, Ethiopian, organic, vegan food, and so much more. With plenty of drool-worthy eateries, the town has earned the nickname of “Southeast Iowa’s foodie hub”.

But there’s something you should know; Fairfield’s food scene doesn’t get fancy. It gets comfortable! Comfort food reigns supreme here. We’re talking ooey-gooey, carby comfort food that makes you sigh with satisfaction!

And if you believe that a burger should be celebrated, you need to experience the farm to table burgers from Fishback & Stephenson’s Cider House. Not only have their burgers earned the title “Best in Iowa”, their ciders are top-notch, winning numerous awards, including top Iowa Cider Producer of the Year two years in a row. Their majestic tap room, built from local timber, serves up local favorite ciders like First Crush and is the best place in town to view Iowan sunsets.

Bountiful Bakery is a “must stop” at the start of any day. Be sure to get your camera out because these bakery treats are simply Instagram-worthy. Cheese and fruit filled pastries, flaky croissants, and gluten free cupcakes are baked fresh every day. But on the weekends their signature cruffins come out to play. Filled with a variety of designer creams like Earl Grey Caramel & Lavender, these works of art demand plenty of napkins!

Speaking of comfort food AND shopping, SOMM Wines is a destination in and of itself. Las Vegas transplant and Sommelier, Krista Matthes, has built a Midwest wine oasis and offers expert, customized wine experiences, attracting people from all over the Midwest. Shop for your favorite vintage or head to the comfy patio to sample a new favorite vino paired with a “Best in the Midwest” charcuterie, which includes local breads, cheeses and herb infused oils.

Small town living has its perks–one of which is the charm exuded by the local shops and boutiques. The shopkeepers in Fairfield, Iowa take the time to get to know their customers, and shops like Adela’s, a local gift and décor boutique, provides a personal touch that you just don’t find in larger cities. Owner Kara Waugh, a Fairfield native who returned after living in the city, prefers doing business in a town where your customers become your friends. Adela’s iconic red door is the gateway to a gift selection that’s as eclectic as the community. Farmhouse and traditional décor items live in harmony with distinctive jewelry and gifts, just waiting to go home with you.

While small towns are typically known for being sleepy and boring, Fairfield Iowa is going to surprise you. From weekend getaways to a day trip escape, this eclectic hot spot is definitely a trip you’ll want to take a bite out of. With plenty of eateries, super cute shops, local music venues, galleries, and the great outdoors all within 6.5 miles, what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time you got off the beaten path?

https://www.visitfairfieldiowa.com/

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