Here, recreation is more than an outing, it’s an adventure with incomparable beauty. Hikers and bikers can trek more than 180 miles of spectacular outdoor trails, golfers enjoy their pick of champion courses, and recreational options abound— with scenic day trips to the picturesque Zion National Park, Red Rock Canyon State Park and its historic rock formations, and last but not least, Lake Mead, home to the iconic Hoover Dam.

Begin your recreational feast with nine courses—golf courses, that is—which include the Jack Nicklaus-designed gem at Lake Las Vegas. An alluring backdrop for golf, the lake’s brilliant blue waters also offer a refreshing plunge into kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, flyboarding, and even yacht cruises. Back on land, hiking and biking trails stretch out across the City, ribbons of exploration threading through suburban streetscapes and through dramatic mountain and desert vistas. Take your pick from easy, intermediate, challenging and even equestrian trails.

The same is true for dining. In a City where food is a passion and every meal a celebration, diners enjoy a bountiful array of choices, from acclaimed chefs throughout Henderson and the City’s Water Street District – a historic street lined with breweries, retail and restaurants specializing in flaming fajitas to flavor-packed steaks, from robust and upscale Italian flavors to sports bar fare elevated to an art. You won’t want to miss the many picture-worthy and locally inspired murals while strolling Henderson’s original downtown.

A tasting tour of the Ethel M chocolate factory is another sweet treat, and in the aptly named Artisan Booze District, where spirits are indeed both an art and a craft, you can sip and savor your way through a brilliant lineup: Original brews in pubs like Crafthaus Brewing as well as handcrafted, small-batch wines at Vegas Valley Winery, where tours and a tasting room are special draws.

When you’re ready to relax, Henderson is home to many premier hotels such as the M Resort and Spa, Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa and Casino and lakeside hotels surrounding Lake Las Vegas, including Hilton Lake Las Vegas Resort and Spa and The Westin Lake Las Vegas Resort & Spa.

With diverse recreational options, exceptional dining experiences, and comfortable accommodations, visitors can custom tailor their visit to suit their needs and preferences. Whether you’re a family seeking a fun-filled getaway or a business traveler in need of a restful retreat, Henderson is the ideal destination for you.

Plan your trip at CityofHenderson.com

The post Discover Henderson Nevada appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

North Lake Tahoe is the perfect mix of lakeside adventure and on-mountain activities with experiences meant to refresh, recharge and reinvigorate your soul. From a scenic paddle to a picturesque hike, and from lounging on the beach to enjoying the local dining scene, there’s so much to do. North Lake Tahoe welcomes you to Summer’s Official Playground.

MESMERIZING VIEWS WITH MENUS WORTHY OF THE SCENERY

From lake views to mountain backdrops, North Lake Tahoe is home to some of the most enticing dining options in Northern California and Nevada. Take in a Tahoe sunset at Lone Eagle Grill in Incline Village, featuring upscale seasonal ingredients and dishes. The restaurant is steps away from a private beach, too. Speaking of amazing lakefront views, Gar Woods Grill and Pier in Carnelian Bay highlights classic Californian cuisine and unique cocktails. Enjoy both on their extraordinary deck.

For a relaxing time with the family, head to Za’s Lakefront Restaurant in Tahoe City where you can dine on elevated comfort food. Whitecaps Pizza in Kings Beach also features handcrafted pizzas along with great beer and cocktails. Wherever you land, the dining options in North Lake Tahoe are plentiful.

DINE AT THE SHORE

We can think of no better place to enjoy local food than with a view of the North Lake Tahoe shoreline. Adventurers can find public docks, benches, picnic tables and more to take in the sights and sounds of the tranquil, sapphire lake. You’re welcome to dine-in at any of their restaurants or, if you’d like to stroll along the shore, consider getting takeout. Options range from approachable grab-and-go meals to dazzling epicurean delights, but please make sure you throw away your to-go trash properly to keep the splendors of Lake Tahoe pristine.

HEAD TO THE MOUNTAIN

In North Lake Tahoe you can experience its sweeping meadows and breathtaking views with a winning variety of food choices ranging from barbecue platters and pizza slices to craft beers and wine. Choosing may prove difficult, but you’ll have a stunning mountain view wherever you go. Stroll across the cobbled walkways in resort Villages, soak in that alpine air and nosh on tasty bites from cafés along the way or visit a pub to sample a local brew. You may also enjoy roaming among the many charming shops with friends.

SO MANY OPTIONS. SO MUCH TO PLAN.

The variety of foodie havens in North Lake Tahoe offers visitors a wealth of unforgettable adventures that will delight all types of palates. Explore the mouthwatering world of North Lake Tahoe dining by choosing from over 150 restaurants and find your new favorite indulgence at GoTahoeNorth.com/Dine

TRAVEL RESPONSIBLY

The magic of Lake Tahoe lies in the culture of its communities and the natural beauty that surrounds it. When visiting North Lake Tahoe, we encourage you to make a clear difference by traveling responsibly. Summer tips include:

• Ensure you are adhering to posted signage and park legally.
• Respect the environment by disposing of any trash in trash receptacles.
• Ride a bike or use public transportation like TART to help get you to and from activities. TART Connect hosts special extended summer hours starting June 30th.
• Pack responsibly by bringing a hat, sunscreen and a reusable water bottle.
• Sign up for county and state alerts for the latest on travel advisories, including potential wildfire activity.
• Be “Bear Aware” by removing any food from your car.
• Be fire safe by following proper burning guidelines. Additionally, fireworks are prohibited in the Tahoe Basin.

With so much for your tastebuds to explore and activities to experience in between, make sure to extend your stay through the week so that you can enjoy more open space and everything the region has to offer. Find the lodging perfect for you at GoTahoeNorth.com/lodging/

The post Indulge in Summer’s Official Playground in North Lake Tahoe appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

But Laredo’s soul doesn’t just dwell in its past. The streets speak through stunning murals with modern tales of heritage and hope. And for those brave souls who fancy a sprinkle of mystery, the Haunted Heritage San Agustin Ghost Walk will have you exploring the eerie side of downtown, guided by the glow of your smartphone.

Steeped in flavor, The Laredo Coffee Tour is your passport to the finest artisanal brews on the border. Sip on coffee, collect stamps, and earn yourself a special souvenir to remember your journey by.

From the Chacon Creek Trail to the lush habitats of Lake Casa Blanca International State Park, and everywhere in between, Laredo is a haven for hundreds of species of local and migratory birds. For birding enthusiasts, Laredo is the place to immerse themselves in the avian wonders of South Texas all year round. Bird lovers and hikers alike can explore Laredo’s riverfront, creek systems, nature trails, and private ranchlands, some offering never-before-birded sites.

When sports are your goal, Laredo scores big time! Laredo is home to Los Tecos Baseball Team, the two-nation organization and five-time winners of the Mexican Baseball league. They’ll play 90 adrenalized games this year. The action continues with the Laredo Heat, champions of the Lone Star Conference Championship. Catch the excitement of a match at Texas A&M International University and feel the heart-pumping excitement of Laredo’s sporting spirit.

Around here, all roads lead back to la cocina, no reservations required. In Laredo, the essence of “Mex-Tex” cuisine comes alive in every bite. Here, you don’t need to cross the border to enjoy authentic Mexican flavors or hearty American fare. Laredo kitchens have more than 200 years perfecting the fusion of two distinct cultures into dishes that define Laredo’s “Mex-Tex” flavor. From sizzling fajitas, tasty tacos, to carne asada and more.

From traditional dishes to global gastronomy, Laredo’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its heritage. Choose between Thai, Italian or Japanese, and of course, the Lone Star State’s famous BBQ and steakhouses. After a hearty meal, treat yourself to the sweet delights of local confectioners, offering everything from fresh doughnuts to tres leches.

From table tops to the mountain tops, our dual culture is everywhere. In colors, textures and flavors that surround you. Here is where two become something new, and totally Laredo.

Come sunset, toast your adventure with an ice-cold IPA or cocktail. Catch the game at a sports bar or dance the night away. Laredo nights make unwinding the day easy.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, just passing through, or simply in search of a new adventure, Laredo caters to all. From the cobblestone alleys to the bustling markets of San Bernardo Avenue, from serene riverbanks to artisanal coffee shops, every moment here is a discovery. So, pack your bags and set your sights on Laredo, where every visit is a journey through the heart of Mex-Tex culture.

The post Laredo: The Cultural Jewel of South Texas appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Embark on the Neches River Rendezvous

The season’s centerpiece is the Neches River Rendezvous, an annual affair that beckons adventurers to paddle through the heart of the Piney Woods. This tranquil sojourn along the Neches River is a celebration of Lufkin’s pristine ecosystems and the simple joy of connecting with nature. With each stroke of the paddle, the waterway unfurls its treasures, from hidden coves to sun-dappled banks teeming with East Texas wildlife. If you want more information or would like to give it a paddle, visit Angelina Neches River Authorities at www.anra.org

A Symphony of Flavors

As the landscape reawakens, so does Lufkin’s local gastronomy. Spring heralds the arrival of vibrant farmer’s markets where the earth’s bounty is a palette for the senses. Here, culinary artisans transform fresh, local ingredients into masterpieces of flavor. The town’s eateries and breweries, like the charming downtown bistros and the rustic Rusty Axe & South First Grill , offer menus infused with the zest of the season.

Cultural Blossoms

Lufkin’s rich cultural fabric comes alive in the springtime. The town’s galleries and studios throw open their doors, inviting art enthusiasts to explore the local creativity that thrives under Lufkin’s canopy. The sounds of music festivals and live performances resonate through the streets, where the traditions of East Texas are celebrated and shared.

Family Escapades

Families find a special welcome in Lufkin, where the Ellen Trout Zoo and expansive city parks offer endless opportunities for discovery and play. Special events cater to the curious minds of young explorers, while interactive exhibits at the Naranjo Museum of Natural History offer a journey through time.

Spring Fest

SpringFest in Lufkin is the epitome of springtime joy, where the community and visitors alike come together to celebrate the season’s vibrant rebirth. Wander among stalls of local artisans and indulge in the region’s freshest flavors, while live music fills the air. It’s a place where kids laugh in bounce houses, and all can revel in the beauty of East Texas’s Piney Woods. Join us for a day of fun, food, and festivity at Lufkin’s SpringFest – where every moment is a memory in the making.

Adventure in the Heart of Lufkin

Lufkin’s essence is captured in the moments of connection—between people, nature, and history. It’s in the thrill of the river, the taste of a new dish, the applause at SpringFest, and the quiet reflection that can be formed from the “Locked With Love” tree. Adventure is not just an activity; it’s the heartbeat of Lufkin in spring.

So, come to Lufkin where “Adventure is Here” is not just a tagline—it’s a lived experience. It’s the laughter of children as they dance under the spring sun, the shared glances of couples strolling down blooming pathways, and the camaraderie of friends toasting to new discoveries. This spring, let Lufkin be your canvas for adventure, painting memories that will last a lifetime.

Plan your trip at VisitLufkin.com

The post Discover Lufkin, Texas in the Spring appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Looking for an even more adventurous getaway, the Len Foote Hike Inn is a must-visit. Located five miles north of Amicalola Falls, it is Georgia’s only backcountry lodge, accessible only by hiking a 5-mile trail through the Chattahoochee National Forest. The Hike Inn places an emphasis on conservation and sustainability, while providing rustic charm in a relaxed and beautiful setting that allows families to enjoy nature together. All you need is a change of clothes and a toothbrush, and they’ll handle the rest, even deliciously served family style meals.

Seeking a need for speed? Atlanta Motorsports Park is an F1 designed 2-mile road course that’s been voted one of the Top 10 Tracks in North America by Road and Track Magazine and Speed Sport’s 2023 Outstanding Facility of the Year, and for good reason. It offers the perfect setting to unleash your inner racer with the world’s most unique public kart racing track, race leagues, racing schools, a teen driving program, racing simulators and more. This is the perfect place to get behind the wheel and satisfy your need for speed.

Racing fans will also relish in a visit to the Georgia Racing Hall of Fame, where you can explore the roots of stock car racing and discover how running moonshine during the prohibition era grew into the NASCAR of today! The Hall of Fame has exhibits celebrating the history of motorsports in the State and features memorabilia and trophies from Dawsonville’s own 2020 NASCAR Cup Champion, Chase Elliott and his dad, former champion Awesome Bill from Dawsonville. Speaking of moonshine, adjacent to the museum, Grandaddy Mimm’s Distilling Co. is a family owned and operated distillery specializing in high quality, small-batch spirits, including moonshine crafted from legendary Jack Mimm McClure’s perfected North Georgia recipe. And don’t forget to take a walk to the legendary Dawsonville Pool Room, known for their Bully Burgers and Fresh Cuts, where owner Gordon Pirkle displays racing memorabilia and has sounded the infamous si-reeen for every Elliott victory since the 1980s.

Finally, if you’re in need of a little retail therapy, look no further than the North Georgia Premium Outlets, Atlanta’s premier outlet shopping destination featuring 140+ stores with savings up to 65% off every day! Luxury retailers including Gucci, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Ferragamo, Stuart Weitzman, Armani and more. For a more unique experience, visit Around Back at Rocky’s Place, the South’s largest folk art gallery, featuring work from over 250 southern artists. Including the largest collection from sought-after folk artist, Cornbread.

There is something for everyone in Dawsonville and its surrounding areas. Embark on the adventure of a lifetime and experience all it has to offer.

Explore at DestinationDawsonville.com

The post Destination Dawsonville, Georgia appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

The James Beard Award-winning ”Best Chef: South” and semi-finalist for James Beard’s “Outstanding Chef” Award, Nina Compton was born and raised in St. Lucia, the daughter of St. Lucia’s three-time late prime minister, Sir John George Melvin Compton. At the Compton home of seven, the kitchen was the center of activity, and young Compton wanted to spend as much time as she could there. Like her siblings, she was sent to England for secondary school. When she returned home, she told her parents she wanted to be a chef. They tried to discourage her, but she insisted, so they arranged a two-year internship at a friend’s hotel in Jamaica. We caught up with the busy chef in New Orleans.

What did you learn in the kitchen at the Jamaican hotel?
For me, the biggest thing was never stop learning. I thought I knew everything and then the chef said the next step was for me to go to culinary school. I went to The CIA [Culinary Institute of America] in Hyde Park and, after, decided to learn from the best: Daniel Boulud at his three-star Michelin restaurant in NYC: Daniel.

What was the most important thing you learned from Boulud?
It was excellence or nothing. He really pushed to make the people around him excellent.

You met Emeril Lagasse. What did he say to you?
He said, always engage people; when they come up to you, always smile. People have this expectation of you, so you need to be engaging.

You moved to Miami to work at the iconic Norman’s and, eventually, Casa Casuarina, the former Versace Mansion in Miami’s South Beach, where you met your husband and rose from sous chef to executive chef. Wasn’t this a very fast-track advancement?
It was, but it’s about paying attention and reading and researching and pushing yourself. I think that’s why people excel; you learn from your mistakes and try to be better each day.

In 2008, Fontainebleau Miami Beach re-opened, and you joined Scott Conant at Scarpetta there as sous chef. Then you were appointed chef de cuisine. What was that like for you?
I was able to learn Italian food from the Maestro, who is very, very talented in what he does and the way he’s able to showcase food at that level.

You fell in love with New Orleans and opened your first solo restaurant, Compère Lapin, which has become a hugely successful restaurant included in “Best Restaurants in America” and Food & Wine’s “40 Most Important Restaurants of the Past 40 Years.” What makes Compère Lapin so successful?
Some of those flavors that I grew up with as a child are very unique to people who’ve never had them before. There are green figs and salt fish, conch croquettes, callaloo soup with spinach okra, nutmeg, coriander and chili flakes, and much more. We don’t make food for everyone else, we make food for you.

Why is NOLA such a great foodie town?
I think it’s the most culturally rich city in the U.S. There are influences here you don’t find anywhere else in the country or world. But it’s really about the people who live here and the people who came before us and instilled such strong cultural roots for us to carry that on.

What is your comfort dish?
I think, coming from the Caribbean, curried goat is probably something that people can identify with. That is definitely my comfort food.

In 2018, you opened Bywater American Bistro, recently relaunched as BABs this past January. Why did you change the name and what kind of food do you serve?
It was always supposed to be a neighborhood restaurant: casual, no frills. But the name was very long, and I just felt like BABs, the abbreviated version, would be more playful. We focus more on Italian cuisine.

You’ve opened Nina’s Creole Cottage, a fast-casual concept featuring affordable, heritage-inspired dishes which offers bold flavor combinations traversing St. Lucian savors with Louisiana Creole flavors. Why did you open it, and what’s your favorite dish there?
Doing fast-casual is really a nod to pretty much all the things I love to eat, but in a fast-casual format. My favorite dish there is the Hot Fire Chicken because with each bite the flavor builds, which I love.

How can you run all these restaurants at the same time?
I don’t know. I haven’t figured it out yet.

You were recently named the Godmother of  Silversea’s newest ship. Silver Nova. How did that feel?
I’ve always explored the many ways in which the world’s cuisines – especially St. Lucia and the Caribbean – strengthen human connections and honor heritage, tradition, and identity. I believe food and drink have the power to bond people together and serve as a unifying language.

How do you describe your cuisine?
I would just say it’s fun. It’s not meant to be too crazy, where people don’t feel comfortable, but adventurous people can enjoy lots of flavors.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Pig. I’ve compared it to crispy savory gummy bears. I’ve tried to cut back on it and it’s just not possible.

When you taste a dish, what exactly are you tasting for?
It depends. Whenever we try a new dish at the restaurant, a lot of the young kids say, ‘Oh, Chef, I think it needs more acid or more lemon juice’ or something. And my response to that is, ‘Do you put lemon juice in your macaroni and cheese?’ And they always say no. I think having the balance of the flavors to build within the dish is very important, and having complexity where it’s not just one note. I like things to either be salty or spicy or acidic, not where it’s just one flavor you’re tasting.

You are the culinary ambassador for St. Lucia. What do you do to promote it?
I take visitors to my home island, St. Lucia, every year for a week [this year it’s July 21-27, 2024, at the luxury resort Cosmos]. I focus on the history and technique of the island’s food, but we also explore everything from markets to waterfalls. I try and show the special secrets St. Lucia holds for me and get people to understand the beauty of the island through my eyes.

Do you have any new restaurants on the horizon for the future?
I’m trying to retire.

What advice would you give to those who want to be a chef?
Don’t give up. Don’t lose sight of your goal. And have fun. We spend too many hours in the kitchen not to have fun.

What’s the most important thing about being a chef?
Get rest. Take time for yourself in the day, whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour. And go outside. When I wake up in the morning, I make a cup of coffee and sit outside and either plan out my day or disconnect for a second. My husband/business partner, Larry Miller, and I run the business together and talk about our day together. It helps to have somebody.
Also, I think the most important part of it is to stay grounded. You have to really know who you are and be comfortable with everything you’re doing and not doing it for social media or anything like that. It’s just really about how you’re projecting yourself to the people.

What’s the most favorite meal you’ve ever eaten?
It could be having grilled lobster on the beach or eating dinner in Paris. It’s really about time and place, not so much about the food but really about where I am and who I’m with.

What’s the biggest mistake you ever made as a chef?
Everybody makes mistakes. I try and look at it as a Bob Ross situation where they’re happy mistakes. At the time, we think it’s terrible, but I think everything happens for a reason in a very Seinfeld roundabout way. I think it all makes sense.

What do you want your legacy to be?
I want my legacy to be Caribbean food is unique. The Caribbean is very big and very diverse with a lot of culture people don’t know. If you venture to the Caribbean, I think you should really go to underdeveloped places. Don’t go to the touristy places. Go to areas that are off the beaten path because sometimes that’s the most authentic food that you can get to understand the island.

By Margie Goldsmith

The post Nina Compton; Breaking the Boundaries of Southern Cooking appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Park Hop with No Lines and Fewer Crowds

Skip the crowds and lines of major theme parks, and enjoy a different kind of “park hopping” experience with just as many thrills. Three of California’s most beautiful national parks surround Fresno and Clovis. Only a short drive away, visitors can see three parks in one trip. A hidden gem, Kings Canyon National Park, is the deepest canyon in the United States. At 8,200 feet at its deepest points, Kings Canyon is deeper than the Grand Canyon and rewards hikers with incredible views of a glacial valley, roaring waterfalls, and giant sequoias. Stand beneath the General Sherman, the largest tree in the world, inside Sequoia National Park. Don’t miss the iconic El Capitan Mountain and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. Yosemite requires reservations to enter the park from April through October.

Farm-Fresh, Year-Round

From luxury dining experiences to farm stands with fresh fruits, experience farm-fresh in the United State’s heartland of agriculture. It’s here you’ll discover California’s most underrated wine country. Not only does Fresno County produce a large sum of the state’s wine grapes, but wine lovers can also taste award-winning wines in an intimate setting at a reasonable price. Local wineries like Kings River Winery provide guided tours with the owner of the winery, taking you through the vineyards where their grapes are grown and the wine cellar to learn about their storing process. At Trelio Food & Wine in Clovis, the menu changes with the season and the chef utilizes locally grown ingredients to create high-end dishes. The restaurant’s sommeliers are trained to pair the best local wines to your taste and meal. Join the community in celebrating the spring harvest on the Fresno County Fruit Trail. Stop for fresh salsa and apricots at Sweet Girl Farms, juicy strawberries at Sunshine’s Farm, and a variety of fruits, dried nuts and old-fashioned sodas at Simonian Farms.

Take the Road Less Traveled

Explore the Forestiere Underground Gardens, an underground wonder carved by hand more than 100 years ago. The gardens have their own microclimate that makes the tunnels 10-20 degrees colder than the surface level. Take the family to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo to see more than 200 species within their interactive exhibits for a fraction of the cost of other nearby zoos. Join one of the behind-the-scenes experiences to help train sea otters, feed a giraffe, and touch a stingray. Thrill seekers can take a wild ride down the Kings River. Experienced tour guides will take you through twisting channels and chilled waters during a whitewater rafting trip hosted by the Kings River Expedition Class 3. The rafting season runs from late March through August. Take part in springtime events like the Clovis Rodeo, Kingsburg Swedish Festival, and the Wildflower Trail.

For more information go to visitfresnocounty.org

The post See Another Side of California in Fresno County appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

THE KITCHEN BAR AT CHEF & THE FARMER

In 2006, Chef & the Farmer helped create the farm-to-table movement which quickly spread across the country with fervor. For more than 15 years, Chef & the Farmer was the flagship of the movement.

In 2023, Chef & the Farmer reinvented itself as The Kitchen Bar, under the leadership of Chef Vivian Howard. Howard’s vision for Chef & The Farmer’s new methodology is to create an intimate experience one weekend a month. If you are lucky enough to get a table, Howard cooks the meal herself and 14 patrons get to experience a 7-course dinner and optional wine pairings, served right at the kitchen bar. The dedication to creating this experience is backed by Howard’s drive to locally source vegetables and meats, and a desire to interact with her patrons one-on-one.

KINGS BARBECUE

A legacy has been built here. King’s takes the same old fashion flavor perfected in 1936, and brings it into the present, right onto your plate. Picture this: Tender, pork barbecue painstakingly hand-chopped daily and slathered in our secret family sauce.

You can taste the family recipes and traditional Southern cooking methods in every morsel of their signature vinegar-based chopped pulled pork and Ribs. How good is it exactly? Well, King’s BBQ ribs were voted best in the country on the Drew Barrymore Show’s Battle of the Bites. So, nations’ best is pretty good.

SOCIAL HOUSE VODKA & PUMPHOUSE 1906

Social House Vodka is the place for vodka. It’s here that Social House has converted an old power station into a farm-to-flask distillery. Made in Kinston, this corn-based vodka is all locally sourced from North Carolina farmers. Their craft spirits are premiere in their flavor and presentation. Offering distillery tours by appointment, you can see the process of how Social House creates liquid gold from grain. The corn gives the Vodka a sweet, buttery, soft, subtle note suitable for sipping on the rocks or mixing into cocktails.

You can taste those cocktails at the PumpHouse 1906. The local speakeasy is owned and operated by Social House and it showcases small batch collections of craft spirits, infusions, syrups, and bitters. No one cocktail is quite like the other. Choose from their extensive menu options or ask one of their mixology specialists to create something special for you.
When you’re in Kinston, every meal has meaning. It’s about the experience of sitting at the table with friends and family. It’s about the sustainable practices that go into every sip. It’s about supporting local farmers. It’s about a culinary experience that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s not just food, but it’s memories. It’s not just southern, it’s southern with a kick. Consider yourself invited.•

Plan your trip today at VisitKinston.com

The post A Taste of Kinston, North Carolina appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

For those drawn to the water, South Holston Lake bordered by the Cherokee National Forest, has much to offer. A gentle glide on a kayak or paddleboard, world-class fishing, rare bird observation, enjoy the thrill of a jet blade or floating waterpark, South Holston provides a perfect blend of activities for everyone. Numerous streams, rivers and lakes throughout the region are filled with large and smallmouth bass, spotted and rock bass, walleye, catfish, native brook, brown, and rainbow trout. Reserve a day or camping excursion with a local fishing guide.

Culinary Delights

Abingdon is well known for its collection of local restaurants. There are more than 30 in all, combining for an amazing mix of culinary offerings that has consistently garnered votes as one of the Best Small Town Food Scenes in the Country by USA Today’s 10Best. Abingdon is a treasure trove for the palate, from farm-to-table dining experiences to the unique flavors of craft beverages, including beer, wine, cider, freshly pressed juice, and specialty coffees.

Glimpse of History and Culture

While the call of the mountains and the lure of the table are compelling, Abingdon’s charm is deepened by its unique blend of history and culture. The town’s storied past is not just alive, but it resonates in its 22-block historic district, where architecture spans two centuries. Stand on the very ground where a small group of patriot militia changed the course of American history at the Abingdon Muster Grounds, the trailhead for the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. From Barter Theatre, which has a fascinating history of trading performances for produce during the Great Depression to vibrant festivals, museums, artisan studios, unique shops and galleries showcasing art, music, and antiques; Abingdon has something for every art and history lover.

Abingdon’s Warm Welcome

After a day spent in the embrace of nature or indulging in culinary delights, Abingdon offers a range of accommodations to rest and rejuvenate. Recognized for its southern hospitality, the town’s lodging options—from charming inns to cozy lofts—promise a warm welcome and a comfortable stay, making it easy to see why Southern Living heralds it as one of the best small towns in the South.

Your Invitation Awaits

Located conveniently off I-81 and within easy reach of major cities and airports, Abingdon stands as a beckoning destination that marries the tranquility of the great outdoors with the vibrant beat of cultural and culinary life. Its central location makes it a perfect getaway for those seeking a blend of nature and culture, inviting you to explore, taste, and discover.

So, are you ready for an unforgettable journey? Find your way to play and indulge in Abingdon’s culinary and natural splendors! VisitAbingdonVirginia.com for more information and start planning your adventure today.•

The post Outdoor Escapades in Abingdon, Virginia appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Before families could enjoy the bonding experience of drifting atop a pontoon all day, and before anglers could brag about their day’s catch of crappie and bass, the Cumberland River first needed to be shaped with the construction of Barkley Dam. Prior to World War II, the rural towns in the region were too acquainted with area flooding, which regularly caused damage to businesses, crops and homes. Fortunately today, Trigg County, the home of Lake Barkley, is known as a hub for lake life and outdoor activities.

At its core, Lake Barkley is a man-made reservoir made possible by the construction of Barkley Dam. The dam was built as part of a larger hydroelectric project in the Tennessee River Valley, constructed to harness the power of the river to generate electricity. The combination of the dam and water from the Cumberland River filling the massive pit excavated in the earth, Lake Barkley was born. Today, the lake spans over 57,000 acres and has over 1,000 miles of shoreline, making it a beloved destination for boating, fishing, swimming and a popular camping destination too. But Lake Barkley isn’t just a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lake Barkley is like a big playground for all kinds of plants and animals to live and thrive. There are many different types of creatures and greenery that call the lake and surrounding area their home. The lake and the adjacent Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area (often referred to as “LBL”) provide habitats for numerous species of fish and wildlife. Photo enthusiasts love the region for its rich opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife photography. However, everyone can get a taste of experiencing wildlife in two particular attractions—LBL’s Elk and Bison Prairie and the Nature Station. While adventurers drive through the 3.5 mile loop to see wild elk and bison or experience up-close, the various native birds, snakes and wildlife at the Nature Station, some also venture to the more modestly sized Hematite Lake.

Kayak in Cadiz Kentucky

Hematite Lake is especially a gem for families with younger explorers who love hiking the 2.2 mile trail surrounding the lake. Those interested in a bit more rigorous trek can choose some of the trails that venture farther from the lake’s shoreline. Fishers can cast their lines from either a boat or the shore and catch bass, bluegill, or crappie. The lake is stocked regularly with fish, making it especially a great place for the novice angler. And boating is welcomed, so long as its the non-motorized kinds, such as kayaking, canoeing, and rowing.

And the well-informed kayakers and canoers enjoy riding the waters of a tributary that empties into Lake Barkley—Little River. This small river is known for its calm and clear waters and the winding scenic ride. Along the route, water-goers report spotting eagle’s nests, numerous rock bluffs, and dozens of caves between the upstream community of Hopkinsville and the Rt. 272 bridge.

From power generation to outdoor recreation and ecological conservation, just adding the waters of Lake Barkley has enriched the lives of many in this western Kentucky region. The next time you’re looking to “just add water” to your weekend plans, consider exploring the beauty and adventure of Lake Barkley and Land Between the Lakes.

Plan your trip at GoCadiz.com/Stay

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