Nestled amidst the rolling hills of what many deem a “flyover state” lies a small, bustling metropolis. With a colorful history and even more colorful present, the university town of Lawrence, KS has a lot to bring to the table. Dating back to the Civil War, residents of the area have prided themselves in being called Jayhawk(er)s. In the 1850s, the term was used by anti-slavery “free-staters” fighting the Bleeding Kansas border conflict with Missouri. Today, Lawrence and the University of Kansas Jayhawks are riding the exhilarating wave of winning this year’s NCAA basketball championship. Lawrence is a fun town with a sense of humor, but there are a few things it takes very seriously: pride in its history, college sports, and good food.

Welcome to Lawrence, the ultimate destination this fall and winter for those seeking the true Midwest Americana experience. Lawrence is actually home to two universities: The University of Kansas, and Haskell Indian Nations University. Together with Massachusetts Street (known colloquially as “Mass”), a vibrant downtown hub that has been repeatedly recognized as the greatest tourist destination in the state, Lawrence has a rich culture and a uniquely quirky community all its own. Its locals and students alike are proud to call the city their home, and they embrace the passing seasons with a communal enthusiasm rarely found elsewhere.

A classic fall weekend in Lawrence show cases the best the Midwest has to offer: perfect walking weather, farmers’ markets, tailgating before college football games, live music block parties, Final Friday art shows, a packed-full holiday event calendar, and restaurants boasting new seasonal recipes featuring local ingredients. To make the most of the season, take a stroll through KU’s campus on the hill, admiring the fall colors, before catching a football game at the stadium. Lawrence is no stranger to agritourism, so consider making a trip to Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch, or one of the city’s nine wineries. If craft beer is your modus operandi, head to one of the city’s six breweries. Free State Brewing Co. will happily serve up a freshly drawn pint of their award-winning Octoberfest lager for you to sip while you peruse their elevated take on the standard pub menu. Or, wander up and down Mass Street and see what else catches your eye, as the bustling downtown contains numerous restaurants with skilled and creative culinary professionals just waiting to show off their latest creations. If you get a little chilly, stop in some of the local shops. The Raven Bookstore-recently named the best bookstore in America by Publishers Weekly-will welcome you with open arms and a very cute shop cat. Waxman Candles will tempt you with their creative seasonal scents and perfectly sculpted morel mushroom candles. Kids will enjoy all 15,000 square feet of The Toy Store. Finish your evening with a finely crafted cocktail from John Brown’s Underground, then retire to The Eldridge Hotel, full of charm and resurrected proudly in the same lot as its predecessor, which was attacked and burnt down twice during the Civil War. With colorful leaves underfoot, seasonal flavors on your tongue, and the crisp air of an approaching winter on your face, you will see why locals and travelers alike are so eager to embrace the season.

As autumn makes way into winter, Lawrence turns its focus to its coziest festivities. Winter in Lawrence is a little like stepping back through time to childhood when the holiday season felt a little more magical. Arrive just after Thanksgiving, and you might see Santa himself “crash” into a downtown building’s third-story roof and be rescued by the local fire department, whereafter the holiday lights that have been diligently strung on every tree lining Mass Street will be ceremoniously lit, to remain for the rest of the winter. A few weeks later brings the annual Old-Fashioned Christmas parade, with horse-drawn carriages, strings of jingle bells, and jolly participants abound. If you missed football season, not to worry, as Lawrence does basketball better than anyone. With the University of Kansas’ basketball program being founded by the inventor of modern basketball himself, and the Kansas Jayhawks currently holding the NCAA championship title for the 4th time, it’s imperative to catch a game if you can. The stands of Allen Field house are always packed, as is every bar and restaurant with a TV or ten around, but the locals will happily make room. Make sure to pick up some barbecue on game days; while Kansas City may be famous for its barbecue, Lawrence is only a stone’s throw away and it shows. On the coldest winter mornings, pick up a coffee and a warm artisanal loaf of freshly baked bread from a James Beard Award semifinalist at 1900 Barker and Café before heading to one of Lawrence’s numerous museums. Watkins Museum of History at 11th and Mass will more than satisfy those history buffs intrigued by the city’s story.

One thing is for certain: Lawrence is a colorful town with a whole lot going for it. This is one city you won’t want to fly over.

The post A Colorful Past and Present in Lawrence, Kansas 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/

The post Fairfield – Off The Beaten Path, But Worth Every Bite! appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Rosemary Square, West Palm Beach, FL

This active district features 72 colorful acres of wide-open lawns beside large-scale art installations. Culture enthusiasts seeking an escape from the bustle of Miami can enjoy the district’s new Artist-in-Residence; cool off under the enchanted branches of the Wishing Tree, a 32-ft tall tech-art blended banyan tree bursting with 10,000 LED-lit leaves; wander through 2,000 art murals; and choose from more than 1,000+ outdoor seating options. Recurring monthly activities include Dog Days (every second Sunday of the month) for themed get-togethers, meet-and-greets and more.

Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, Fort Lauderdale, FL

Nestled on the northern, tranquil side of Fort Lauderdale Beach away from Las Olas’ bustling scene, the hotel pays homage to the yachting capital of the world. Featuring panoramic views of inland waterways from spacious all-suite accommodations, an intimate spa, oceanfront Sky Deck and more than 300 miles for oceanside walking along the beach. Tee-off from any of the 40 world-class golf courses in the area. Visit Bal Harbour Shops for over 100 oceanside luxury retailers surrounded by palm trees, koi ponds, fountains and lush flora. Venture under the light of the full moon for the Monthly Full Moon Kayak Tour at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park along an ancient freshwater Coastal Dune Lake, an endangered ecosystem. Spring and summer nightly rates with AARP discount starting at $227.

The Drake Oak Brook, Oak Brook, IL

A historic gem outside of Chicago, The Drake Oak Brook whisks guests away from the city and into a quiet escape from the bustling Chicago scene for in-room champagne breakfast and massages among ten acres of lush gardens. Book one of the hotel’s dining igloos for private dining in the garden. Visit the Morton Arboretum for a museum of trees at daily senior discounts or any of Oak Brook’s eight nature parks for leisurely strolls, hikes, fishing and photography. Enjoy easy access to the Oak Brook Polo Club and Oak Brook Golf Club. Spring and summer nightly rates with senior discount starting at $134.

Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino, Aruba

With more than 100 beachfront palapas, two zero entry pools, an on-site diving center and waterproof library, seniors can bask in a true Caribbean getaway bursting with authentic experiences and cultural activities at Hilton Aruba Caribbean Resort & Casino. In addition, those who are looking to extend their stay can book the hotel’s Escape to Happiness Package where guests stay for three weeks and get the fourth week free along with a number of other amenities including one two-tank boat dive (or snorkel) for up to two people with the hotel’s General Manager Vasco Baselli. Spring and summer nightly rates with senior discount starting at $275.

Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Key West, FL

Away from Duval Street on the largest private beach in Key West, Casa Marina, A Waldorf Astoria Resort elevates the carefree lifestyle of the Florida Keys through sand sculpting workshops, coral reef exploration and backcountry private island excursions. Celebrating its centennial this year, guests can also feel part of the rich history of the resort. Rates with senior discount start at $356.

Hotel del Coronado, San Diego, CA

The hotel is home to Beach Village, a secluded oceanfront enclave offering cottages and villages that feature private patios with ocean views, gourmet kitchens and living rooms plus activities from surf camp and to beach bonfires and history tours. Rates with senior discount start at $288.

Hilton Sedona Resort at Bell Rock, Sedona, AZ

Seniors looking for a remote and scenic getaway can choose Sedona which is home to over 200 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails. The hotel features spa, golf, pools and more. Wellness enthusiasts can experience the Warrior Pit, a one-of-a-kind boot camp playground and the only cross training resort facility in the South West. Adventurists can enjoy nearby hot air balloon rides, kayaking, or jump on a jeep for a tour of the outback. Rates with senior discount start at $253.

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