Paige DeSorbo, Giggly Squad podcaster and Bravo star, shares her excitement: “As someone who values friendships and doesn’t wait for a special occasion to celebrate, I’m thrilled to partner with La Marca Prosecco to turn a besties trip into a trip of a lifetime. The La Marca Summer Villa has such a vibe and is an amazing way to bring a taste of Italy stateside while creating unforgettable memories with your favorite friends.”

Guests at the La Marca Summer Villa will enjoy the luxuries of a personal chef specializing in Italian cuisine, a dedicated butler curating a sparkling itinerary of Italian-inspired activities, and boundless opportunities to craft once-in-a-lifetime memories with friends.

“La Marca is the #1 Prosecco from Italy, and the Summer Villa encapsulates everything we love about our home country, bringing the essence of Venice, Italy, to Venice, California,” says Beth Orozco, VP of Marketing for La Marca. “We are delighted to partner with Paige, as she embodies our belief that there is no occasion more special than the present moment.”

To enter for a chance to stay at the La Marca Summer Villa, fans can visit @LaMarcaProsecco on Instagram and comment on how they celebrate their friendships. The contest runs from 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time (ET) on August 13, 2024, to 11:59 p.m. (ET) on August 20, 2024. Full contest rules and regulations are available at this link.

La Marca Prosecco is available nationwide or at LaMarcaProsecco.com in various sizes: 750mL (SRP: $18.99), 1.5L (SRP: $36.99), 187mL (3-pack) (SRP: $18.99), and 375mL (SRP: $10.99). Visit [lamarcaprosecco.com](https://www.lamarcaprosecco.com/) or @LaMarcaProsecco for more information.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of the United States (excluding NJ, UT, VA) and the District of Columbia who are 21 or older. Void where prohibited. Contest runs from 8:00 a.m. ET on 8/13/2024 to 11:59 p.m. ET on 8/20/2024. To enter via Instagram, visit [@lamarcaprosecco](https://www.instagram.com/lamarcaprosecco/), find the La Marca Summer Villa post, and follow the instructions to submit your entry. Subject to Official Rules. Official Rules are available at this link. Sponsor: E. & J. Gallo Winery.

About La Marca Prosecco

Founded more than 50 years ago, La Marca is the leading Prosecco from Italy* and represents a cooperative of 5,000 local winegrowers farming 35,000 acres in the Veneto region of northern Italy. From La Marca’s home in Treviso, Italy’s Prosecco capital, La Marca Prosecco elevates everyday moments with a crisp, refreshing style that pairs beautifully with friends and various foods. La Marca Prosecco boasts a pale, golden straw color and lively effervescence. It opens with aromas of fresh citrus and honeysuckle blossoms, delivering fruity notes of green apple, juicy peach, and ripe lemon, accented by hints of minerality. The finish is light, refreshing, with a tantalizing hint of sweetness. La Marca Prosecco charms as an aperitif and has the body and acidity to pair well with seafood, mild cheeses, rich pasta dishes, and decadent desserts.

*IRI Unify, Latest 52 Weeks, 7/14/2024, Total US MULO, La Marca Prosecco, Dollar Sales

SOURCE La Marca Prosecco

The post La Marca Prosecco and Bravo Star Paige DeSorbo Are Bringing a Taste of Italy to One Lucky Group of Besties through the La Marca Summer Villa appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

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.

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.

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

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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.

Located in the Phoenix-Metro area, the city’s year-round sunny climate makes it the ideal place for outdoor recreation, and it abounds here! Surprise boasts one of the largest public tennis and racquet complexes in the Southwest including 25 tennis courts, two racquetball courts, a table tennis room, clubhouse and event space. If you prefer pickleball over tennis, there’s a place for that, too. Home to 16 dedicated pickleball courts – the Surprise Community Park – is a haven for pickleball fans. The Community Park also includes an urban fishing lake, basketball courts and a playground all nestled within a sprawling downtown park.

Surprise is also a golf aficionado’s dream destination with eight courses to choose from. Be sure to check out Surprise’s newest course, Sterling Grove Golf & Country Club. This world-class Nicklaus Design course draws inspiration from some of the world’s most famous courses. And there’s more than just 18 holes with grove-lined fairways – it’s also home to a state-of-the-art practice facility that includes an indoor golf simulator.

Surprise Stadium, ranked the #1 Spring Training Stadium in Arizona by USA Today, is the Spring Training home of Major League Baseball’s Kansas City Royals and Texas Rangers – 2023 World Series Champions! Baseball fans from all over the country travel to Surprise every Spring to experience the fun atmosphere of a spring game in the Arizona sunshine. With unique game viewing options, family entertainment, mouthwatering foodie favorites and craft brews, Surprise Spring Training is a can’t miss when traveling to Arizona.

If you are looking for outdoor adventure, the White Tank Mountain Regional Park, which rises from the border of Surprise offers hiking, biking, camping and a nature center. Maricopa County’s largest regional park is nearly 30,000 acres and provides endless options to fit every age, experience level and ability. There are approximately 30 miles of hiking trails at the park that offer breathtaking views of the mountains and panoramas of the valley below.

Surprise also has an emerging arts and culture scene with an array of public art, local galleries and performing arts venues. The Vista Center for the Arts is a state-of-the-art 1,300 seat performing arts center that hosts a variety of music acts, comedy shows and live performances. In addition, West Valley Arts HQ is an art gallery and cultural event center that holds exhibitions, performances and events.

As a growing city, Surprise’s retail and culinary scene continues to expand, showcasing everything from local hot spots to regional shopping centers. Local favorites include Saigon Kitchen, offering a traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern touch. For Mexican fare, Rio Mirage Café features Sonoran-style recipes handed down for generations including homemade tortillas, sizzling fajitas and delicious margaritas. Vogue Bistro is perfect for a date night out with an intimate setting, delicious French-American style dishes, designer martinis and an extensive wine list. Surprise also has great options if you are in the mood for a nice cold beer – locals love State 48 Brewery, Bonfire Craft Kitchen & Tap House and Irish Wolfhound.

And for the shopping enthusiasts, check out the Village at Prasada and Surprise Towne Center & Marketplace. These open-air malls are a perfect escape for a day of retail therapy!

There’s something for everyone in Surprise, Arizona. Find your game. Find your adventure. Find your retreat. Find your Surprise!

ExploreSurprise.com
SurpriseStadium.com

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Nestled along the shoreline, this charming region boasts a treasure trove of upscale restaurants that blend local flavors with a touch of sophistication. From charming waterfront eateries to hidden gems tucked away in historic towns, the Shores & Islands Ohio dining scene promises a delectable experience for discerning palates. Explore these culinary gems that elevate dining to an art form.

Celebrating 10 years of bringing “big city dining to a small town” in 2024, Ørchard Bar & Table at Catawba recently debuted major renovations and an expansion project. The new-and-improved restaurant offers a luxe and inviting atmosphere with a combination of indoor soft seating, traditional dining tables, bar seating, and a gorgeous expanded patio, in season. In addition to the intimate and more formal main dining room, consider watching chef’s preparations at the all-new sushi and raw bar. The dining concept offers prime steaks, fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a large selection of wine in an elevated, warm and welcoming space.

1812 Food & Spirits features fine dining but casual dress. Named for the region’s history and close association with the War of 1812 and the Battle of Lake Erie, 1812 Food & Spirits offers an upscale dining experience featuring local favorites like Lake Erie yellow perch and walleye as well as other culinary treats. The rich menu also includes steaks, ribs, chops, seafood, pastas, and homemade desserts.

Bay Harbor Waterfront Restaurant in Shores & Islands

Bay Harbor Waterfront Restaurant is located at the Cedar Point Marina, offering water views and sitting in the shadow of some of the world’s most amazing roller coasters. This casually-elegant eatery features fresh seafood, delicious pasta, and prime rib. Outdoor eating on the patio is available in season, but the restaurant is open year-round. Come by lake or land for a romantic dinner or casual get together with friends.

Get dressed up for a fancy night out at Chez François, a French gem along the Vermilion River. The main indoor dining room does require jackets for men and a refined dress code. This elegant dining experience comes with top-rated food and service. Regularly one of the top restaurants in the region, Chez François features a highly-rated wine list and delicious French cuisine, fit for a special occasion. Their other onsite venues, Riverfront Café and Touché Wine and Martini Bar feature a more casual dress and atmosphere.

A more casual choice is Crush Wine Bar, offering both small plates and entrees with an extensive wine menu. Crush is known for its sushi and raw bar items, as well as a number of sharable dishes, pizzas, pastas, steaks, and chops. During the warmer months, the outdoor patio offers a casual place to enjoy an evening in downtown Sandusky.

Gideon Owen Wine Company

For more than 150 years, there has been a winery steeped in history and style on the Catawba Island peninsula. Now known as Gideon Owen Wine Company (formerly Mon Ami), this premier food and wine destination is the perfect fusion of old-world charm, innovative design, and immersive experiences. Offering a formal dining room as well as a more casual patio and a wine bar, Gideon Owen serves lunch, dinner, and Sunday brunch. Visit for one of many special events, including live entertainment and wine cellar tours, or plan your own special event! Dinner menu includes elevated entrees featuring seafood, steaks, and pastas, all enjoyable with a glass of local wine!

Looking for an upscale island dining experience? Enter The Goat, Soup & Whisky which offers casual fine dining with a farm-to-table focus. It’s large eclectic menu features foods created with and utilizing herbs from the onsite garden. Not only does this eatery present a nice wine list, but they also boast an outdoor Austrian/German Biergarten, open seasonally.

Another downtown Sandusky option for a fantastic night out with a delicious meal is J Bistro, a fine-dining restaurant offering steak, seafood, and pasta with a large wine selection, homemade desserts, and both indoor and patio seating.

Sawmill Creek by Cedar Point Resorts offers a beautiful resort property with a number of amenities and dining options, where they definitely don’t offer typical hotel restaurant fare. The Miller’s Table is an experience, dedicated to sourcing the best sustainable and local Ohio ingredients and bringing them fresh to your table. It’s obvious in the rotating menu and your unforgettable meal. Hand-crafted cocktails from the full-service bar will complement your meal. The best part is you do not have to be an overnight resort guest to enjoy this experience, but upscale stays are always available for a memorable getaway.

These culinary delights are perfect when you are looking to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy a night on the town. Which of these Shores & Islands Ohio upscale dining experiences will you try first? Get more information and order your Play + Stay Guide at SHORESandISLANDS.com.

The post Discovering Upscale Flavors in Shores & Islands Ohio appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Each Spring, there’s one seasonal delicacy on every Southerner’s mind: crawfish. There are appetizers, entrees and loads of crawfish being boiled and sold by the pound. The South clearly takes crawfish season seriously. If picking up a sack of fresh caught crawfish, shrimp, or oysters and hosting a boil in your own backyard isn’t on your agenda, our restaurants have got you covered. Begin your adventure surrounded by gameday hype at Heroes Sports Bar & Grille, where crawfish are served in a creamy spinach dip with warm toasted pita. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, Wintzell’s Oyster House offers a signature crawfish-infused sauce over a variety of dishes, and their acclaimed seafood gumbo pairs perfectly with their freshly shucked oysters. If you’re looking for some heavenly handheld options, you’ll love the fried soft-shell crab po’boy from Debris Po-Boys & Drinks.

Dinner wouldn’t be complete without a view. Add a taste of local flair and a stunning view of Mobile Bay at Felix’s Fish Camp. In addition to the variety of daily fresh catch options, the restaurant’s seasoned and sauteed crawfish tails are a must-try for those searching for a medley of Gulf Coast flavors. The waterfront setting adds an extra layer of charm to the dining experience. Dauphin’s crawfish and beurre blanc Delta Cakes are complemented by panoramic views of Mobile’s skyline from the 34th floor of the RSA Tower.

Beer and crawfish go hand in hand. Mobile’s award-winning craft breweries carry an array of drafts, cans and bottles that complement the local dishes in the area while matching the tastes of guests. Mobile’s oldest brew house, Iron Hand Brewing, specializes in British-style ales. For those who prefer to match Gulf Coast’s flavor and culture while prioritizing sustainability, Braided River Brewing Company is the ideal spot. One of their core brews, “Hoppy By Nature,” features notes of mango, pineapple and grapefruit. The refreshing taste of Oyster City Brewing Company’s flagship and seasonal drinks adds to the longing of sunny days ahead. This indoor/outdoor pub provides enough space for you and your crew to beat the Mobile heat in the taproom or enjoy a spring day with local food trucks on the partially covered patio.

Once the cravings have been satisfied and the beer has been enjoyed, it’s time to venture into Mobile’s entertainment district for some refreshing cocktails and mocktails. The Royal Scam, a popular and upscale spot known for its eclectic cocktail selection, offers the perfect setting to unwind near the buzz of downtown Mobile’s nightlife. Try the “Black Cadillac” from Squid Ink Eclectic Eats & Drinks, a bubbly gin beverage with a splash of real squid ink. Complete the evening at the Haberdasher, where a team of skilled mixologists serves modern takes on old classics and libations.

Spring enhances the flavors of Mobile. Coastal dishes, brews and cocktails set the tone for the upcoming season and create a signature experience like no other. Every bite and sip are celebrations of the diverse and vibrant spirit of Mobile. Cheers to good times, unique cuisine and a warm Spring welcome on the Gulf Coast.

Plan your destination at Mobile.org

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Better yet, these waterfalls populate over 100,000 acres of public lands that are not just prime for waterfall hunting, but for every other conceivable outdoor adventure as well – hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, paddling, fly fishing, and canyoneering – just to name a few.

At the center of it all is the town of Brevard, named one of the “coolest small towns in America” by Budget Travel. How else would you explain a craft beer culture that supports five independent breweries, a live music scene embracing everything from bluegrass jams to Beethoven symphonies under the stars, and a colony of craftspeople and artists whose work is celebrated in galleries around the world?

An Unrivaled Adventure Destination

Between Pisgah National Forest, DuPont State Recreational Forest, Gorges State Park, and Headwaters State Forest, more than 50% of Transylvania County’s landmass is public land. For our visitors, that means unrivaled access to world-class, single-track mountain bike trails, hundreds of miles of hiking and equestrian trails, prime trout fishing waters on one of America’s top 100 trout fishing rivers (the Davidson), and paddling opportunities on the 3rd oldest river in the world, the French Broad.

Even if you are not a hard-core outdoor adventurist, the opportunities for deep woods recreation are abundant. Sliding Rock, located in Pisgah National Forest, has delighted families for decades with its 80-foot, smooth granite slide into a natural, cold plunge pool. Nearby, the 6,500-acre Cradle of Forestry offers interpretive nature trails, a fascinating forestry museum, historic cabins, and a 1914 Climax logging train. And practically everywhere you turn, you’ll find waterfalls. In Gorges State Park, discover beautiful Rainbow Falls – and be sure to take in the park’s informative and engaging Visitor Center. Or venture into DuPont State Recreational Forest and experience the enduring wonder of Triple and High Falls.

The Perfect Recipe: Art, Culture, and Great Food

You can work up an appetite and a thirst exploring the great outdoors. Thankfully, Brevard and Transylvania County offer lots of flavorful options. Brevard boasts five stellar craft brewers along with a wide assortment of tap rooms, cafés, pubs, and restaurants where you can sample an array of one-of-a-kind drafts along with genuine North Carolina bar-b-que, piled-high burgers, and super-stuffed burritos. On the fancy side, there’s destination dining at our legendary inns and restaurants. Enjoy Carolina Mountain trout at a window table overlooking a lake. Or try a braised pork bourguignon in an al fresco setting in downtown Brevard. You’ll also find a wonderful constellation of dining choices in our charming smaller communities like Lake Toxaway and Cedar Mountain.

The soundtrack to your Brevard adventure is provided by a live music scene that is as dynamic and varied as you’ll find in any big city. The difference is an intimacy that puts you right in the middle of the music – whether it’s being performed on the street, around a fire pit at a local cantina, on a mini-stage in a local brewery, or lakeside in the open-air Whittington-Pfohl Auditorium at Brevard Music Center.

To learn more about our unforgettable mountain town, go to ExploreBrevard.com and start mapping your next great adventure.

The post Falling for Brevard, North Carolina appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.

Bedford has more mileage along the Blue Ridge Parkway than any county in Virginia. Exit the Parkway and explore wineries, orchards, historic attractions, local shopping and dining, and trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The area boasts more than 130 holes of disc golf, in addition to more than 30 miles of mountain bike trails.

Set against a backdrop that includes breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge and a quintessential American home front community, the National D-Day Memorial tells the story of the Allied sacrifice of June 6, 1944. Among the hundreds of thousands of service members positioned off the shores of Normandy on that fateful morning, were 44 soldiers, sailors, and airmen from Bedford. By day’s end, Bedford’s D-Day fatalities totaled 20. In comparison with its wartime population of only 3,200, Bedford suffered the Nation’s highest known per capita D-Day loss, a somber distinction for this rural Virginia community.

Though designated a national monument, it is not part of the National Park Service and does not receive federal or state funding. A groundbreaking was held in 1997, and the National D-Day Memorial was dedicated on June 6, 2001 by President George W. Bush. The 50-acre outdoor site is open daily, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. In 2024, a special week of commemorative events will be held to mark the 80th anniversary of D-Day.

After visiting the Memorial, take the short drive into historic downtown to the Bedford Boys Tribute Center. Located inside the historic Green’s Drugstore building, where in July 1944, the Western Union telegrams came informing families of the invasion casualties. Here you will find the personal effects of many of the Bedford Boys and learn the stories of these hometown soldiers that were lost on D-Day.

While in downtown Bedford, enjoy shopping for art, antiques, vintage treasures, culinary treats, home décor, and more. There are several restaurants within easy walking distance from each other in a charming atmosphere of 19th century buildings. One option is Beale’s, a craft brewery and full-service family friendly restaurant, featuring indoor and outdoor dining areas with special beer releases throughout the year.

Beale’s is also part of the new Bottled in Bedford Craft Beverage Trail! The trail is a great way to unwind in Bedford, all while sampling high-quality, small batch wine, beer, cider and even mead, the world’s oldest fermented beverage. With 11 stops on the trail, you’ll experience a unique vibe and personality at each place. Some have live music, food trucks, corn hole, disc golf, trivia, and other fun games, while others may be the perfect place to relax and watch the evening sunset.
Smith Mountain Lake makes up the southern border of Bedford and is among the most popular vacation and recreational spots on the East Coast! Enjoy water sports, fishing, and breathtaking sunsets. Smith Mountain Lake State Park offers a public beach, trails, cabins, and camping. Bedford’s only lakefront resort, Mariners Landing, features many amenities including unique restaurants and an 18-hole championship golf course.

While in Bedford, be sure to stop by the Bedford Area Welcome Center. The Welcome Center not only offers information about the area, but also a gift shop, firefighters’ gallery, RV hook-ups, electric car charging station, LOVE sign, and more.  The Center is open daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

You will need more than a day to experience it all! Go to DestinationBedfordVA.com or call (540) 587-5681 to find out more.

The post Where Ordinary Ends, Bedford, Virginia, Begins appeared first on Food and Travel Magazine.