Top

Menu

MATPRA

MATPRA is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C. and West Virginia.

Archives for February 2023

Regenerative Travel Experiences in the Mid-Atlantic

As tourism bounces back from the pandemic, travelers are reemerging with a new sense of responsibility to improve the destinations visited. They are looking for regenerative travel experiences that allow them to support a local business, impact a community or uplift the hospitality workers who make their travels worthwhile. Here’s just a few ways travelers can get an enriching regenerative travel experience across the Mid-Atlantic.

A one-stop-shop for unique travel ideas, roundups, and in-destination experiences to uncover and explore across the Mid-Atlantic region. Click here to view the photo gallery, and please provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO.

Delaware

Kent
Come visit us in Kent County, Delaware to experience our warm hospitality and unique amenities our locals love and support! Visit our award-winning museums, breweries, wineries and distilleries as well as family fun venues such as Tre Sorelle Dolce’s Ice Cream Shop/Mini Golf and Fifer’s Orchards Farm Store and Kitchen. Delaware’s Quaint Villages, VisitDelawareVillages.com, Catherine Jenkins, [email protected]

Maryland

Calvert
Visit Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum and tour the Maryland Archaeological Conservation to learn about the work being done on-site for artifact study and preservation. Join a historical or archaeological hike on the scenic park trails and grounds or participate in a workshop such as making a bottle gourd birdhouse. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, VisitCalvert.com, Hilary Dailey, [email protected]

Howard
Looking to give back as you travel? Come to Howard County, where our local businesses succeed because of your patronage, and in return bring joy to your life! Whether you support charming boutiques, artisan shops, festival vendors or locally-owned restaurants, your visit makes a difference. Visit Howard County, VisitHowardCounty.com, Theresa Pickett, [email protected]

Kent
Enjoy sailing and kayaking with Chestertown’s Sultana Education Foundation, promoting Chesapeake Bay stewardship. Onshore, the Eastern Shore Food Lab offers wild edible plant foraging walks and cooking classes. Be sure to stop by the town’s renowned Farmer’s Market on Saturday mornings to find fresh foods from local sustainable sources. Kent County Tourism, MD, KentCounty.com/visitors, Penelope Young-Carrasquillo, [email protected]

Pennsylvania

Allegheny National Forest Region
Forest Bathing is the practice of being in nature, connecting with our senses to the relaxing and regenerative atmosphere of the forest. The Allegheny National Forest offers over 513,00 acres of public lands where you can experience forest bathing along a remote trail or cabin nestled in the woods. Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau, VisitANF.com, Linda Devlin, [email protected] 

Bradford
There are various volunteer opportunities available with the Endless Mountains Heritage Region in Bradford County such as site preparation and assistance with events like the annual Susquehanna River sojourns, special presentations and Heritage Region workshops on a variety of topics. Help the efforts of this great organization and enjoy the great outdoors! Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, VisitBradfordCounty.com, Morgan Christopher, [email protected]

Butler
SurfSUP Adventures provides stand-up paddleboarding eco-tours in Moraine State Park for all ages and skills! Navigate narrow passages, circumnavigate isolated islands and stand up paddle through Eco-Tours at Lake Arthur. Personal instruction for new paddlers is followed by a relaxed exploration of the lake’s hidden gems and abundant wildlife. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, VisitButlerCounty.com, Jeff Martinelli, [email protected]

Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania
The Friends of Salt Springs Park is a volunteer-based organization that uses volunteers to establish and maintain trails, run programs, paint buildings, plant trees and flowers, chop wood, raise money, help visitors, sit on the Board, and much more. In April, “Trail Day” is a chance for visitors to lend a hand at this wonderful site. Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, EndlessMountains.org, Morgan Christopher, [email protected]

Laurel Highlands
Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial is the official nonprofit partner of Flight 93 National Memorial. The group welcomes all who would join in honoring the sacrifice and courage of the passengers and crew of Flight 93. Events include the Heroes Walk, plant-a-tree efforts and pints-for-parks fundraiser. Go Laurel Highlands, Flight93Friends.org, Eric Knopsnyder, [email protected]

Lawrence
The heartbeat of Lawrence County, PA is our local Mom & Pop shops and restaurants. Our businesses are generational and have roots deep in the community. They have continually given back with a smile and we encourage locals and tourists alike to support them. Visit Lawrence County, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, Ginny Jacob, [email protected]

Potter-Tioga
Lyman Run State Park is a 45-acre lake for fishing, six miles of perfect-for-strolling hiking trails, a quiet campground and a warm sand beach invites visitors to enjoy nature. The Friends of Lyman Run offer volunteers a chance to “lend a hand” to support the park mission. Next on the agenda is a new playground. Get involved! Visit Potter-Tioga, VisitPotterTioga.com, Morgan Christopher, [email protected]

Virginia

Giles
Make your next trip good for the soul and good for the environment. Giles County invites you to explore Virginia’s Mountain Playground and participate in ReNew the New. With over 400 volunteers this river clean up effort is a day full of camaraderie and scenic views and doing good. Giles County, VA Tourism, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, Cora Gnegy, [email protected]

Hampton
Escape to Hampton’s exciting communities like Phoebus or Downtown Hampton. These bustling areas offer visitors a regenerative experience where they can support local businesses, listen to local historians and engage with residents. Visitors can explore Fort Monroe, the Hampton History Museum, and local restaurants like Drexler’s or Guilty Pleasure Coffee. Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, VisitHampton.com, Mahogany Waldon, [email protected]

Harrisonburg
Harrisonburg, Virginia has many socially conscious businesses from 10,000 Villages to Gift and Thrift where proceeds benefit local non-profits assisting homeless and refugees. One independent boutique, New Creation, is a non-profit organization whose mission is to creatively counteract human trafficking selling unique items from 60 partner organizations from 5 continents. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, Jennifer Bell, [email protected]

Lexington & Rockbridge
Natural Bridge State Park offers monthly opportunities to enjoy a guided program in which visitors view the moon, stars, and meteors at this certified IDA Dark Sky Park. Rangers educate about the dangers of light pollution and the importance of dark skies to nocturnal environments. Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism, LexingtonVirginia.com, Patty Williams, [email protected] 

Loudoun
Purcellville’s Graffiti & Silk, latest addition to Loudoun’s glittering antique and vintage store scene, is more than a cool retro thrift store. Profits go to local youth homeless charity Mobile Hope and the store hosts regular community events such as Storyteller evenings and Social Stitching – sewing and crochet gatherings for women. Visit Loudoun, VisitLoudoun.org, Jen Sigal, [email protected]

Norfolk
Norfolk has plenty of opportunities to get involved while you explore. Enjoy the outdoors with volunteer opportunities at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens, Elizabeth River Project or the Elizabeth River Trail. Support the arts through the Virginia Arts Festival or give back to the community with organizations dedicated to serving people experiencing homelessness or hunger. Visit Norfolk, VisitNorfolk.com, Paige Hawsey, [email protected]

Shenandoah
Every year volunteers keep the North Fork of the Shenandoah River clean for future generations. A healthy, forested buffer bordering rivers and streams is important for the health of waterways. Make an impact as our Friends of the North Fork of the Shenandoah do with a river clean-up travel experience. Visit Shenandoah County, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, Brenda Black, [email protected]

Stafford
Deciding between a frozen mocha, iced americano, or classic cappuccino? Why choose when you can have it all! In D.C.’s backyard, discover local coffee shop, Grounds Coffeehouse, and taste innovative coffee flights and shop locally sourced products. Tour Stafford, Virginia and discover unique activities and experiences off the beaten path. Tour Stafford, Virginia, TourStaffordVA.com, Courtney Swenson, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge
Take a car-free vacation to walkable downtown Roanoke beginning with a trip on Amtrak’s Northeast line. Rent a bike from Roanoke Mountain Adventures to get around outside downtown and take the new shuttle to the trailhead of McAfee Knob. Virginia’s Blue Ridge is an official Leave No Trace Community Partner. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, VisitVBR.com, Kathryn Lucas, [email protected]

 

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance
Our goal is to make your job as travel journalists easier! These once-a-month emails provide a one-stop-shop for unique travel ideas, roundups, and in-destination experiences to uncover and explore across the Mid-Atlantic region. We work directly with destinations across D.C., Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia to put together roundup stories. Understanding your timelines and lead time needs, we’ve preplanned hot industry and travel topics months readily available to you.

We encourage you to reach out to each destination contact above if you’re interested in covering their story, and also welcome you to email us at [email protected] if you’re looking for a roundup on multiple destinations or a different story topic altogether.

The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing D.C., Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.

Breaking into Spring – Time for Spring Break in the Mid-Atlantic

Goodbye winter woes, hello sunny skies! As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, it’s time to get out from under the covers and into the sunshine! Maybe hiking in a national park is your family’s favorite pastime. The season for kayaking is starting! Or maybe simply having a picnic at a local winery, brewery, cidery, or distillery will put a smile on your family’s face. Whatever the draw might be, get outside with your loved ones and enjoy the upcoming season. Check out the outdoor excursions available in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Delaware

Kent
With warmer weather, comes the beauty of nature in Kent County, Delaware! Killens Pond State Park in Milford has a 2.6-mile trail and follows the stunning 66-acre pond. It also features a Nature Center with live animals, and a picnic area to eat lunch with a beautiful view. Delaware’s Quaint Villages, VisitDelawareVillages.com, Catherine Jenkins, [email protected]

Maryland

Allegany 
From incredible outdoor recreational activities to amazing historic sites, dining and entertainment venues, there’s a trail for every type of adventurer to discover on The Mountain Side of Maryland. Allegany County’s hyperlocal culinary trails will fuel you up for the many outdoor and history trails you can explore here! Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, mdmountainside.com, Mindy Bianca, [email protected] 

Cecil
Get off the beaten path and experience Cecil County’s scenic beauty at 3 State Parks. Discover hiking, bird watching, biking, paddling, and horseback riding, surrounded by peaceful countryside and history. Enjoy nearby vibrant small towns with shopping and authentic local dining. Elk Neck State Park, Fair Hill NRMA, and Bohemia River State Park. Cecil County Tourism, SeeCecil.org, Sandy Turner, [email protected] 

Hagerstown & Washington 
If you love unique festivals, make your way to the 2023 South Mountain Spring Festival on May 20th and 21st, 2023. This is a drive-to tour/event, where you can visit artisans, farms, and local crafters – jewelry, mosaics, pottery, cheese, moonshine and more! Visit Hagerstown, VisitHagerstown.com, Betsy DeVore, [email protected] 

Harford
Become one with nature this spring when you take a scenic hike through Rocks State Park in Harford. Veer off your path to experience the breathtaking Kilgore Falls and see the jaw-dropping views of the land when you hike all the way up to the King and Queen Seat. Visit Harford, VisitHarford.com, Megan Hallett, [email protected]

Kent
While Kent County, Maryland is known for its awe-inspiring nature, one best-kept secret is Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, which offers extraordinary birding experiences. Located where the Chester River and Chesapeake Bay converge, the island encompasses 2286 pristine acres for visitors to also enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, crabbing—and tranquility. Kent County Tourism, MD, KentCounty.Com/Visitors, Penelope Young-Carrasquillo, [email protected] 

Wicomico 
Get outside this spring in Wicomico County. Take a walk through the Salisbury Zoo, which offers free admission, learn stories of the past at Parsons Cemetery or Houston Cemetery, ride the historic Whitehaven Ferry, and take in the blooms of the Salisbury University arboretum. Maryland’s Wicomico County, WicomicoTourism.org, Niki Wheatley, [email protected] 

Pennsylvania

Armstrong 
Spring is in full bloom in Armstrong County, and there’s no better way to experience it than by getting outdoors! Pedal the 35.5-mile Armstrong Trail, immerse yourself in the flora and fauna at the Outdoor Discovery Center at Crooked Creek, or plan a paddle along the Allegheny River. Experience Armstrong, Inc., ArmstrongCounty.com, Cheyenne Filous, [email protected]

Bradford
Spring into great health when you discover the wide variety of fresh farm-to-table products and foods you will discover at Berry Fields Farm in beautiful Bradford County. This popular farm grows herbs and produce throughout the year and offers visitors seasonal favorites perfect for healthy eating. The popular pizza is a local “MUST HAVE” when in the area! Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, VisitBradfordCounty.com, Morgan Christopher, [email protected] 

Butler
The annual Cherry Pie Hike commemorates George Washington’s mission through Butler County to demand France’s withdrawal from the region, leading to the French and Indian War. Included are nature walks and history hikes, recreating the1753 assassination attempt on Washington. Participants can choose hike options and enjoy cherry pie! Butler County Tourism and Convention Bureau, VisitButlerCounty.com, Jeff Martinelli, [email protected] 

Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania 
Waterfall trails across the Endless Mountains offer visitors lush displays of natural runoffs as the winter snows melt to make way for spring growth across our parks and forests. Ricketts Glen State Park, Worlds End State Park, and Salt Springs State Park are but a few of the destination trails to discover these magnificent natural displays. Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, EndlessMountains.org, Morgan Christopher, [email protected] 

Juniata River Valley 
Southern Juniata County is the true “heartland” of Pennsylvania with many charms hidden among the sweeping landscape. This spring, find yourself fishing or camping along the river, hiking the mountains, visiting a farm, touring historical landmarks, or feeling the rush of excitement at Port Royal Speedway. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, JRVVisitors.com, Buffie Boyer, [email protected] 

Lancaster 
Enjoy the links in Lancaster County, PA. A dozen-plus public golf courses range in skill level from beginner to experienced and often boast spectacular scenery too. From splendid layouts like Pilgrim’s Oak and Tanglewood amid the rolling hills of the “southern end,” to other appealing tracks like Foxchase and Crossgates. Discover Lancaster, DiscoverLancaster.com, Joel Cliff, [email protected]

Lawrence 
Expand your mind at Arts + Education at the Hoyt! Tour the 1917 Hoyt West Mansion and explore the history and architecture of New Castle’s “Golden Age.” View rotating art exhibits in Hoyt East, along with opportunities to take art classes and participate in year round events. Visit Lawrence County, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, Ginny Jacob, [email protected] 

Pennsylvania (Commonwealth of) 
Winter’s transition to spring marks maple tapping season! Pennsylvania is bustling with maple production and VisitPA has your guide to the farms and institutions that bring the season to life. Tapped: A Maple Trail features two road trip itineraries with 23 total stops throughout the Laurel Highlands and PA Wilds. Pennsylvania Tourism Office, visitPA, VisitPA.com, Michael Chapaloney, [email protected]

Potter-Tioga 
The Pennsylvania Lumber Museum’s exhibits, sawmill and lumber camp are great spots to discover the region’s rich history as the state’s premiere producer of lumber. Include a visit to nearby Cherry Springs State Park, home of the incredible Dark Skies, where viewing the solar system with the naked eye for an unbelievable experience as part of a spring trip. Visit Potter-Tioga, VisitPotterTioga.com, Morgan Christopher, [email protected]

Virginia

Fairfax
Immerse yourself among evanescent Virginia bluebells or those famous pink cherry blossoms as you search for wildlife along the riverbed. For a change of pace, take a self-guided public art tour in one of America’s first planned communities or soak up history lessons with a springtime view at a presidential estate. Visit Fairfax, FXVA.com, Ali Morris, [email protected]

Giles
Bring your own or rent from our outfitters to fish, float, paddle, and relax along the New River Water Trail this spring. The New River flows 37 miles through Giles County! Boys trips’, girls’ getaways, family vacation, or Spring Break destination- find it Virginia’s Mountain Playground. Giles County, VA Tourism, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, Cora Gnegy, [email protected] 

Loudoun
Loudoun is home to the greatest hiking trail in the world: the Appalachian Trail. Make your way to Bears Den Overlook above Bluemont and hike “The Rollercoaster”. The rugged, swooping trail runs for 13 miles in Loudoun, taking you up and over rocky outcrops and boulders, pine trees overhead, stunning views all around. Visit Loudoun, visitloudoun.org, Jen Sigal, [email protected] 

Norfolk
Welcome in Spring with a day at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Stroll through 175 acres of beautiful gardens blooming with daffodils, tulips, camellias and so much more. Explore the gardens on foot, by tram or boat as you learn more about the native species, wildlife and blooms around you. Visit Norfolk, VisitNorfolk.com, Paige Hawsey, [email protected] 

Shenandoah
Spring inspires us to re-energize. A trip to Shenandoah County, VA is the best place to enjoy the great outdoors, cool breezes, and mountain views. Meet small business owners, dig into delicious local fare, shop for fine art, go underground at the caverns, slow down, and take it all in. Visit Shenandoah County, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, Brenda Black, [email protected] 

Stafford
Kids off from school? Stafford has you covered. Tour Stafford, VA in D.C.’s backyard has 10 sample itineraries which will make spring break planning a breeze. Find budget-friendly fun, multi-generational trips, explore where American history meets the great outdoors, or create your own itinerary with our website’s free itinerary builder. Tour Stafford Virginia, TourStaffordVA.com, Courtney Swenson, [email protected] 

Staunton 
Staunton offers a variety of hiking opportunities for those looking to spend some time outside enjoying the fresh air. Explore pastoral hills, rugged forest terrain, waterfalls, and more. A vast selection of trails invites hikers of all skill levels to experience our natural beauty. Lace-up the shoes, and let’s go! Staunton, VA, VisitStaunton.com, Jessica Williams, [email protected] 

Town of Culpeper
Swim, sip, tube, camp, paddle, fish and so much more this spring in Culpeper, VA. Spend a long weekend or spring break getaway enjoying an array of outdoor recreation, small-town shopping, craft beverages, farm experiences, and history. A small town with modern charm, Culpeper is your next springtime adventure destination. Culpeper Tourism and Visitors Center, VisitCulpeperVa.com, Nicole Warner, [email protected]

About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance

Our goal is to make your job as travel journalists easier! These once-a-month emails provide a one-stop-shop for unique travel ideas, roundups, and in-destination experiences to uncover and explore across the Mid-Atlantic region. We work directly with destinations across Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia to put together roundup stories. Understanding your timelines and lead time needs, we’ve preplanned hot industry and travel topics months readily available to you.

We encourage you to reach out to each destination contact above if you’re interested in covering their story, and also welcome you to email us at [email protected] if you’re looking for a roundup on multiple destinations or a different story topic altogether.

The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.