Stay Overnight in the Mid- Atlantic March 12, 2020 by MATPRA Admin Mid-Atlantic Region, March 12, 2020) Plan your next getaway around an amazing lodging experience! Throughout the Mid-Atlantic, you can pick from a variety of unusual and memorable overnight accommodations. From luxury resorts to one of a kind bed and breakfast retreats, there is a wonderful assortment of places to rest your head across the region. You can journey back in time when you stay at one of the many national historical landmarks dating back to the birth of our country. Immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty while spending the night in a lighthouse, tree house, railroad car, glamping, modern cabins or an all-inclusive family-owned country resort! When it comes to unique places to stay, there is something for everyone in the Mid-Atlantic region. For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org. DELAWARE Delaware’s Quaint Villages Spend the night underneath the stars at Delaware’s Quaint Villages’ Killens Pond State Park. This Park features year-round wooded camping for tents, RVs, and family cabins. Spend the day at the outdoor waterpark, kayak along the 66-acre mill pond or adventure off to one of their many hiking and biking trails. Delaware’s Quaint Villages (Kent County, DE), Danielle Jonigan, VisitDelawareVillages.com, djonigan@visitdelawarevillages.com MARYLAND *Maryland (State of) For a unique camping experience, stay in either a treehouse or Hobbit House in Western Maryland. Travel to Southern Maryland to stay at the Cove Point Lighthouse, located along the Chesapeake Bay. Or stay along the C&O Canal in one of the seven lockhouses, ranging from full amenities to rustic living. Maryland Office of Tourism, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, mscales@visitmaryland.org Calvert County Cove Point Lighthouse is a beautifully restored and re-purposed active lighthouse and keeper’s home that sits on a seven-acre point of land in one of the narrowest parts of the Chesapeake Bay. The gorgeous keeper’s house can be rented as a vacation home, and sleeps up to 16 guests. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, hilary.dailey@calvertcountymd.gov Charles County Discover two of the friendliest lodging draws to Explore Charles County – Legends, Lore, and Room to Explore. Visit Rosewood Manor and Brictoria Cottage Bed and Breakfast locations soon and reimagine a wedding venue or rural retreat. Explore Charles County is 30 miles south of Washington D.C. Charles County Government, Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, Catherine Herbert, explorecharlescounty.com, herbertc@charlescountymd.gov Frederick County Situated between the scenic Potomac and the still-active railroad tracks, Lockhouse 28 is a half mile from the nearest parking lot. Though this is a house, there is no electricity or plumbing inside. It is truly a place to get off the grid! Visit Frederick, Melissa Joseph Muntz, VisitFrederick.org, mmuntz@fredco-md.net Harford County Stay and play at the Vandiver Inn in Havre de Grace, Maryland. At Vandiver you will experience charming boutique lodging in a historic waterfront town. The Inn is located just blocks from the Chesapeake Bay and is surrounded by historic homes, museums, golf, shopping, antique stores, marinas and water oriented activities. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, mindy@visitharford.com Howard County There is so much to explore in Howard County, especially at The Columbia Inn at Peralynna. A boutique hotel, nestled in a private estate and rolling hills of Howard County. Featuring a unique blend of chic and elegance. Be sure to ask for the fresh baked cookies. Visit Howard County, Crystal Abrom, visithowardcountytourism.com, crystal@howardcountytourism.com Talbot County The luxurious Inn at Perry Cabin in St. Michaels is where “Wedding Crashers” was filmed while the historic Tidewater Inn anchors downtown Easton. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a family excursion, Talbot County also offers numerous rentals, from charming in-town cottages to sprawling estates on the Chesapeake Bay. Talbot County Office of Tourism, Cassandra M. Vanhooser, TourTalbot.org, cvanhooser@talbotcountymd.gov Wicomico County Stay in a historic building during your next visit to Wicomico County. The Whitehaven Hotel has eight rooms and is located on the Wicomico River by the Whitehaven Ferry. The new Gillis Grier Bed & Breakfast is in Salisbury. Or, get in touch with nature at one of three campgrounds. Wicomico County Tourism, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org, vjunkin@wicomicocounty.org PENNSYLVANIA Allegheny From Plush to Primitive. The Lodge at Glendorn, set in the majestic scenery of the Allegheny National Forest, is the ultimate luxury resort, 4-star dining, wine cellar, and spa. B & B’s in the Smethport Mansion District, Olmsted Manor, rustic cabins and campgrounds round out your distinct overnight accommodation choices. Allegheny National Forest, Linda Devlin, VisitANF.com, info@visitanf.com Bradford County Built in 1897 for wealthy lumber baron and banker J. A. Decker, the Victorian Charm Inn in Towanda is a 30 room Victorian home welcoming guests as a bed & breakfast. Stained glass windows, original woodwork, wraparound porch and grand cherry staircase are some of the features of this cozy getaway spot. Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, info@visitbradfordcounty.com Butler County Armstrong Farms is an award-winning bed and breakfast. Their B&B is comprised of different houses and quaint cottages situated on the farm along with suites in the town of Saxonburg. With over six miles of trails, ponds and beautiful vistas, Armstrong Farms offers a relaxing and unique lodging experience. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, VisitButlerCounty.com, tiffany@visitbutlercounty.com Clearfield County Clearfield County is the “best place to escape to in Pennsylvania” expedia.com. You can digitally disappear in Clearfield County breathtaking natural beauty or you can enjoy and experience the many fun and adventurous activities and attractions that Clearfield County has to offer. Come visit the place that is also known as “Halfway to Everywhere.” Visit Clearfield County, Josiah Jones, VisitClearfieldCounty.org, jjones@visitclearfield.com Endless Mountains Twin Spruce Tourist Home is a Victorian bed & breakfast operating in a historic “tourist home” dating back to the early 20th century when travelers and salesmen were the primary lodgers in these once popular venues along rural highways. Near hiking trails and wineries, this nostalgic property is the perfect mountain getaway! Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, sales@endlessmountains.org Gettysburg Stay at the upscale Federal Pointe Inn. Part of the Ascend Hotel Collection, this boutique hotel served as Gettysburg’s first high school. The hotel pays homage to its past with old photos, report cards and chalkboards in the basement pub. Destination Gettysburg, Rachel Wright, DestinationGettysburg.com, rachel@destinationgettysburg.com Happy Valley Wake up to Happy Valley. Spend the night in a state park with sweeping lake views at The Nature Inn at Bald Eagle State Park. Luxury and sophistication abound at the Carnegie Inn & Spa. Connect with university tradition on Penn State’s campus for a comfortable stay at the Nittany Lion Inn. Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Edward Stoddard, visitpennstate.org, edwards@visitpennstate.org Lancaster County Lancaster County offers plenty of unique lodging, from the fun of refurbished railroad cars at Red a boose Motel in Ronks to the live entertainment vibe & theme-ing of Hotel Rock Lititz to the intimate & personalized tiny-house experience at Tiny Estates in Elizabethtown. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, jcliff@discoverlancaster.com Pennsylvania Commonwealth From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxury resorts and even rustic farm stays, Pennsylvania has accommodations for your next adventure. Fall asleep under the stars, relax by the fire on the countryside, or shop til’ you drop in a charming city. Pennsylvania Tourism Office, Sarah Lunny, VisitPA.com, SLunny@tierneyagency.com Potter County – Tioga County The Penn Wells Hotel, a designated Historic Hotels of America, reflects the grandeur of hotels from the early 20th century. In the heart of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region, this landmark hotel serves as a venue site for local events like Dickens of a Christmas, Endless Mountains Music Festival and many more! Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, morgan@visitpottertioga.com VIRGINIA Alexandria In Alexandria, known as George Washington’s adopted hometown, visitors can stay in a replica of a town house originally owned by Washington. Available for rent on Airbnb, the town house is located steps from Christ Church, where Washington attended, and Gadsby’s Tavern, where he socialized and conducted business. Visit Alexandria, Leah Spellman, VisitAlexandriaVA.com, lspellman@visitalexva.com Charlottesville & Albemarle County Charlottesville & Albemarle County, Virginia have a wide variety of lodging options, but few are as unique as The Townsman. Dubbed “the unhotel,” this 4-room hotel is located directly on the historic pedestrian Downtown Mall, steps away from nightlife, restaurants, live music and arts. Charlottesville & AlbemarleCounty CVB, Brantley Ussery, VisitCharlottesville,org, bussery@albemarle.org Giles County, VA Lodging in Giles is just as adventurous as the great outdoors. Mountain Lake Lodge, home of Dirty Dancing, is a full family adventure. Romance and peace are found at the Inn at Riverbend while classic and quality cabins at Walker Creek Retreat are a basecamp in Virginia’s Mountain Playground™. Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, cgnegy@gilescounty.org Harrisonburg By the Side of the Road Getaway Lodging has been transformed into Harrisonburg, Virginia’s premier short-term rental property to serve your Getaway Lodging needs in a unique and beautiful nine-acre “Oasis in the City.” When was the last time you felt really and truly pampered? Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jessica Williams, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, jessica.williams@harrisonburgva.gov Norfolk The Glass Light Hotel & Gallery is a new boutique hotel and glass art gallery located in the heart of downtown Norfolk’s Historic District, featuring world renowned artists such as Dale Chihuly, and Peter Bremers. A Michelin starred chef serves upscale French cuisine at the ground floor restaurant. VisitNorfolk, Sarah Hughes, VisitNorfolk.com, shughes@visitnorfolktoday.com Orange County, VA Mayhurst Manor House, circa 1859, was the most fashionable home in Orange county at the time, Italianate in style. Stunning in its architectural beauty it hosted many historical figures from General Lee to Stonewall Jackson. Immerse yourself in an era of history, architecture and southern hospitality of old Virginia. Orange County, Virginia Tourism, Lori Landes-Carter, VisitOrangeVirginia, Lcarter@orangecountyva.gov Prince William County Spend the night in a rustic cabin that was once used for spy training during WWI & II at Prince William Forest Park. If you prefer modern amenities, The Inn at Evergreen, a Civil War Era mansion, offers the perfect blend of modern amenities, historic charm and a first-class getaway. Prince William County Office of Tourism, Nicole Warner, VisitPWC.com, nwarner@pwcgov.org Virginia’s Blue Ridge Breathe in fresh mountain air along the banks of the scenic Upper James River while glamping riverside with Twin River Outfitters. These new float-up camp sites offer cozy lodging, an outdoor kitchen, prime fishing spots and a chance to unplug during a multi-day paddle trip in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, @VisitVBR, VisitVBR.com, tspellman@visitvbr.com WEST VIRGINIA Hampshire County Come home to Hampshire with family-owned and operated lodging. Romney, the oldest town in WV, provides both the comfortable South Branch Inn and the retro Koolwink motel. Or you enjoy a full vintage vacation at the all-inclusive Capon Springs & Farms- an historic mountain resort set on 4700 picturesque acres. Hampshire County CVB, Jonathan Bellingham, cometohampshire.com,info@cometohampshire.com About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the MidAtlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.
Warm & Cozy March 2, 2020 by MATPRA Admin (Mid-Atlantic Region, March 2, 2020) — Don’t let Jack Frost have the upper hand this winter! Throughout the Mid-Atlantic, destinations are waiting to greet you with a warm welcome for a wide variety of events, activities and attractions that are the perfect antidote to that case of cabin fever. From historic country inns where you can snuggle up for a romantic weekend with that special someone to events like film festivals and car shows, there is much to consider across the region. Let your winter warrior have some fun and embrace the outdoors at a wide array of parks, resorts and trail systems perfect for a fun filled winter getaway! For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org DELAWARE Delaware’s Quaint Villages Escape the cold and head to one of Delaware’s Quaint Villages breweries for entertainment, food and craft beers at Blue Earl Brewing Company. Book a tour and tasting at Painted Stave Distilling and enjoy unique craft spirits! Wrap up the night with a stay at one of Kent County’s cozy and charming bed & breakfasts! Delaware’s Quaint Villages (Kent County, DE), Danielle Jonigan, VisitDelawareVillages.com, djonigan@visitdelawarevillages.com Greater Wilmington The Horizon Services Riverfront Rink at Justison Landing Green on Wilmington’s Riverfront is a family oriented outdoor ice skating rink. It accommodates approximately 350 skaters and is open daily. Skate rental is available. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, www.visitwilmingtonde.com, jenboes@visitwilmingtonde.com MARYLAND *Maryland (State of) Discover Maryland’s history and culture at one of Maryland’s museums, fill your appetite during restaurant week, take a ride along the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, learn about muskrat skinning at the National Outdoor Show or cozy up by the fire in some of the best retreat centers in Maryland. Maryland Office of Tourism, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, mscales@visitmaryland.org Baltimore When the weather takes a turn toward chilly, there’s no better time to get cozy in Baltimore! Food lovers can dine fireside at Woodbery Kitchen or Petit Louis Bistro, art aficionados can visit the Baltimore Museum of Art and book connoisseurs can get lost in the George Peabody Library. Visit Baltimore, Abigail Vitaliano, baltimore.org, avitaliano@baltimore.org Calvert County Embrace Winter in Calvert County, Maryland! Outdoor experiences include hiking on boardwalks, wooded paths or along the beaches of the Chesapeake Bay, geocaching and bird watching. For indoor fun, there’s museums, an indoor pool, art galleries, breweries, wineries and cooking and mixology classes at No Thyme to Cook. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, hilary.dailey@calvertcountymd.gov Cecil County Make your winter escape to one of Cecil County’s charming inns located in towns and in the countryside. Find cozy amenities to take the chill away like crackling fires, Jacuzzis, a player grand piano to sing along with, local wine samplings, a luxurious spa, and a hot tub overlooking the C&D Canal. Visit SeeCecil.org. Cecil County Tourism, Sandy Turner, SeeCecil.org, sturner@ccgov.org Charles County Discover the warmest addition to Explore Charles County – Legends, Lore, and Room to Explore. Visit BlueDyer Distilling Co. soon and savor the flavor at the Aw Shucks events and try a new spirit inspired craft cocktail from their full menu. BlueDyer Distilling Co. is 30 miles south of Washington D.C. Charles County Government, Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, Catherine Herbert,explorecharlescounty.com, herbertc@charlescountymd.gov Frederick County Get cozy with dinner at the newly opened French Cafe, Up On Market, followed by a show at the Historic Weinberg Center for the Arts where you’ll enjoy national acts and local beverages. Visit Frederick, Melissa Joseph Muntz, VisitFrederick.org, mmuntz@fredco-md.net Hagerstown – Washington County When it’s cold outside, retreat to one of Washington County’s 30-plus warm and cozy museums. Whether you’re enjoying fine art exhibitions, introducing your children to STEAM learning, connecting through family activities and learning local history, or embracing your inner child while viewing model train displays, there’s something for everyone! Visit Hagerstown, Betsy DeVore, VisitHagerstown.com, betsy@visithagerstown.com Harford County These places in Harford County are sure to keep you warm and cozy. Test your lumberjack skills at Crabby Axe Throwing in Bel Air, Maryland. Play a game of indoor blacklight mini golf at Jurassic Golf and Arcade. Solve puzzles to “unlock” the room and “escape” at Great Escapes Harford. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, mindy@visitharford.com Howard County This winter check out Howard County indoor free or almost free activities. From seasonal activities at Robinson Nature Center to the historic railroad at B&O Railroad in Old Ellicott City. There is so much to see and new while visiting Howard County, Maryland! Visit Howard County, Crystal Abrom, visithowardcountytourism.com, crystal@howardcountytourism.com Kent County (MD) Arts. Birding. Trails. Cozy B&Bs. A winter getaway with all of the ingredients for a warm and cozy, cultural, and invigorating experience. From Chestertown’s A & E District happenings to the walking trails of Eastern Neck Island, you will find plenty to do. Or you may want to cozy up in front of a roaring fire at a favorite B&B. Visit Kent County on MD’s Eastern Shore. Kent County Tourism, Jana Carter, KentCounty.com, jcarter@kentgov.org Talbot County There is no better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than by hearing iconic singer Art Garfunkel at Easton’s Avalon Theater. The Grammy-nominated Po’ Ramblin’ Boys are coming to the Stoltz Listening Room. And the family-friendly Chesapeake Fire & Ice Festival brings spectacular ice sculptures and fire performances to Easton. Talbot County Office of Tourism, Cassandra M. Vanhooser, TourTalbot.org, cvanhooser@talbotcountymd.gov Wicomico County Admire artwork at the Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art, Salisbury Art Space and the Salisbury University Art Galleries. Visitors can also attend events at the Wicomico Youth & Civic Center, which hosts family events, concerts and more. Wicomico County Tourism, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org,vjunkin@wicomicocounty.org PENNSYLVANIA Altoona Build your Blair County Bucket list and enjoy our indoor recreation facilities! We’re home of Slinky Action Zone, indoor play park and arcade themed around the Toy Slinky made in Blair County. Or play indoor glow-in-the-dark mini-golf at Tilt Studio inside the Logan Valley Mall. Play inside and stay warm. Explore Altoona, Jennifer Fleck, explorealtoona.com, jfleck@explorealtoona.com Bradford County Grab your popcorn! Restored theaters across Bradford County are perfect to spend a winter evening catching first run films and special presentations like National Theater Live on a cold day! The Sayre Theatre, Rialto Theater and Keystone Theater are restored movie houses offering audiences nostalgic settings for great movies. Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, info@visitbradfordcounty.com Butler County Enjoy outdoor adventure during the winter months at Moraine State Park, Pennsylvania’s third largest state park. Visitors can enjoy activities like sledding, snowmobiling, hiking, and cross-country skiing. Pleasant Valley and Sunken Garden trails are groomed for cross-country skiing when snow conditions permit and are suitable for all skill levels. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, VisitButlerCounty.com, tiffany@visitbutlercounty.com Central Pennsylvania Enjoy the beauty of a fresh coating of snow on the ridge tops in Rothrock State Forest. Find adventure on the slopes with a visit to Tussey Mountain where skiing and tubing are available all winter long. A very family friendly attraction. Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Edward Stoddard, visitpennstate.org, edwards@visitpennstate.org Endless Mountains The Winter Film Festival at the Dietrich Theatre in the heart of Tunkhannock offers three weeks of independent, art house and foreign film favorites for audiences. Over a weekend, visitors can catch up on first run favorites and Oscar hopefuls at this Endless Mountains cultural arts center. Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, sales@endlessmountains.org Erie Experience AWEsome! Erie winters are packed with snowy adventures and warm hospitality! Enjoy downhill and cross country skiing, tubing, snow shoeing, snowboarding, ice sailing, ice fishing, OHL hockey, NBA G-League basketball, birding and sledding! Wine and Dine to end your day at a local restaurant, winery or brewery. VisitErie, Christine Temple, VisitErie.com, cvb1@visiterie.com Lancaster County Lancaster County’s hot theater scene provides a great winter warm-up, from the Broadway-caliber performances of the Fulton to the inspirational epics at Sight & Sound to the great acting & great food at Dutch Apple to the state-of-the-art productions & concerts at American Music Theatre, and many more! Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, jcliff@discoverlancaster.com Lehigh Valley Cure cabin fever with a dose of color. At the Crayola Experience, you can explore more than 25 hands-on attractions spread throughout four floors of fun. Create a crayon with your name on the wrapper, watch your artistic creations digitally come to life, and more. Discover Lehigh Valley, Kaitie Burger, DiscoverLehighValley.com, kaitie@discoverlehighvalley.com Laurel Highlands A winter wonderland of fun awaits in Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands! Spend a day shredding the slopes or explore mountaintop trails on a snowmobile, then snuggle fireside after a day of snow tubing, sledding, and snowballs at one of our winter resorts. Laurel Highlands Visitors Bureau, Anna Weltz, laurelhighlands.org, aweltz@laurelhighlands.org Philadelphia Philadelphia has plenty of great events to enjoy while the weather is cold. The Philadelphia Auto Show is always a popular event each year. And, the Philadelphia Flower is always the perfect sample of what the spring will bring. Visit Philadelphia, Daniel Davis, VisitPhilly.com, daniel@visitphilly.com Pocono Mountains The Poconos’ six ski resorts offer skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing. Or, warm up in one of our 84-degree indoor water parks! Our nine state and two national parks offer snowshoeing, ice skating and cross-country skiing. Winter hikes and eagle watching are popular – as are horseback, sleigh, UTV and dog sledding rides! Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, PoconoMountains.com, bstrunk@poconos.org Potter County – Tioga County After a day playing on slopes and trails, head to Pop’s Culture Shoppe, home of unique board, card and skill games, for a night of indoor fun! Offering old favorite and new board, card and skill games, Pop’s offers Friday Game Nights and classes in chess and other strategy games. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, morgan@visitpottertioga.com Reading, Berks County Get toasty this winter at a glassblowing demonstration at the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts in Pennsylvania’s Americana Region. Bask in the warmth of the hot glass studio as you marvel at this age old art. Afterward, get cozy at The Speckled Hen, an 18th-century log home turned eatery serving hearty pub fare. Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, Lisa Haggerty, VisitPaAmericana.com, lisa@visitpaamericana.com VIRGINIA Alexandria Minutes from Washington, D.C., historic Alexandria, Virginia is bustling with energy and endless things to do, and the fun doesn’t stop when the weather is less than ideal. Winter is the perfect time to visit historic sites, tour the Torpedo Factory Art Center or cozy up in a coffee shop. Visit Alexandria, Leah Spellamn,VisitAlexandriaVA.com, lspellman@visitalexva.com Arlington Wintry temps doesn’t mean staying in the hotel while visiting Arlington. Here, beat the cold by checking out an array of visual and performing arts. Expand your horizons with a cooking class at Cookology or Lebanese Taverna Market. And of course, you can still enjoy winter activities with indoor ice skating at Medstar Capitals Iceplex – home of the Washington Capitals. Arlington Convention & Visitors Service, Cara O’Donnell, StayArlington.com, codonnell@arlingtonva.us Fairfax County Lace up those skates at Reston’s iconic pavilion ice rink or stay warm by exploring one of the world’s most fascinating air and space museums. Cozy up with Virginia wine or see a show at Wolf Trap’s intimate winter venue, The Barns. No matter the weather, fun is around every corner. Visit Fairfax, AliMorris, FXVA.com, amorris@fxva.com Fredericksburg Region (Spotsylvania, Stafford and Fredericksburg) The FredericksBURRRG region has great places to warm up. Start at A. Smith Bowman Distillery for award winning Isaac Bowman Port Barrel Finished Bourbon and take it to one of the cozy B&Bs in downtown or a cottage at Stevenson Ridge while you sip in front of the fireplace with a good book or your sweetie. Fredericksburg Region, Debbie Aylor, VisitFred.com, daylor@spotsylvania.va.us Giles County, VA A playground for your next adventure. Visit Giles to explore mountaintop resorts, including Mountain lake Lodge or experience unique dining adventures, like The Palisades Restaurant, The Bad Apple, or Bluegrass BBQ. Giles is Virginia’s Mountain Playground and your adventure destination with the New River, Appalachian Trail, scenic byways, and wilderness experiences! Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, cgnegy@gilescounty.org Harrisonburg When there’s cold weather outside, head to Harrisonburg and warm up by sampling the latest microbrews on tap at our five downtown breweries. Enjoy special events like homebrew classes and live music at The Friendly Fermenter or grab a seat by the fire at Pale Fire Brewing Company. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jessica Williams, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, jessica.williams@harrisonburgva.gov Lynchburg It’s always the hidden places that are the coziest. Givens Books is one of those places. Inside, choose from thousands of books, games for all ages in their Little Dickens section, or visit their Drowsy Poet Cafe’ for a hot mocha as you warm up with a new book. Lynchburg Office of Economic Development & Tourism, Krista Boothby, LynchburgVirginia.org, krista.boothby@lynchburgva.gov Norfolk The mild weather and walkability of Norfolk’s neighborhoods means less time in the chill and more moments enjoying craft cocktails and the wide array of cultural dishes on our historic Restaurant Row. Get inspired inside free art museums, delight in waterfront sunsets and cozy up at an outdoor firepit. VisitNorfolk, Sarah Hughes, VisitNorfolk.com, shughes@visitnorfolktoday.com Orange County, VA While the vines at Orange County’s wineries have gone dormant for the winter, the tasting rooms are warm and cozy, making this a wonderful time for a wine excursion and a relaxing stay at our Inns to unwind from the holidays and reconnect with the ones you love. Orange County, Virginia Tourism, Lori Landes-Carter, VisitOrangeVirginia, Lcarter@orangecountyva.gov Prince William County Plan a cozy weekend at The Inn at Evergreen, a Civil War Era mansion nestled at the foot of Bull Run Mountain. Spend the weekend enjoying nearby attractions like The Winery at La Grange, The Farm Brewery at Broad Run and Trummer’s Wine & Coffee Bar. Prince William County Office of Tourism, Nicole Warner, VisitPWC.com, nwarner@pwcgov.org Richmond Cold weather calls for indoor activities and the Richmond region has plenty of Eatertainment options. Kick things off with a shuffleboard match and cocktails at Tang & Biscuit. Walk over to Slingshot Social Game Club for some retro games like duckpin bowling and ultimate bocce. End the evening with dinner and a game of putt putt at Hotel Greene. Richmond Region Tourism, Meghan Gearino, VisitRichmondVa.com, mgearino@visitrichmondva.com Shenandoah County Just two hours From DC, Shenandoah County is the place to get away and enjoy skiing, snowboarding, plus a variety of other adventures: Ice skating, guided snowshoeing tours, horseback riding, and snow tubing. There are also locally owned restaurants, B&B’s and cozy wine tasting rooms to escape the cold. Shenandoah County Tourism, Jenna French, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, jfrench@shenandoahcountyva.us About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the MidAtlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.
New in 2020 in the Mid-Atlantic January 2, 2020 by MATPRA Admin (Mid-Atlantic Region, January 2, 2020) — As the Mid-Atlantic region ushers in 2020, destinations offer travelers to the region more things to do and see, revealing new events and attractions for the upcoming year. From hotel, restaurant, and brewery openings to fresh exhibits, festivals, and celebrations, the Mid-Atlantic continues to provide visitors with new and exciting travel experiences. For more information on any of the following, contact the destination marketing organization listed below. For general information on the Mid-Atlantic, visit MATPRA.org. DELAWARE Greater Wilmington Wilmington & the Brandywine Valley, part of America’s Garden Capital, gets a new garden for 2020 when the Apothecary Garden at Rockwood Mansion opens. Plus, Hagley Museum introduces STEMtastic Weekends and the new retro ‘50s vibe Goober’s Diner opens alongside the neighboring and aptly named, classic car collection, Goober’s Garage. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Sarah Willoughby, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, arahwilloughby@visitwilmingtonde.com Kent County Coming Spring 2020 to Dover Downs Hotel & Casino is a new eatery, Sugar Factory American Brasserie. This new restaurant will feature a full-service bar, retail shop, café and a confectionary shop. Sugar Factory features unique signature drinks & milkshakes, mouth-watering burgers, savory entrees, and more! Delaware’s Quaint Villages, Danielle Jonigan, VisitDelawareVillages.com, djonigan@visitdelawarevillages.com MARYLAND Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Opened December 2019, The Hall at Live! features some of the nation’s best touring acts, comedians and show-stopping entertainment. With a capacity of up to 4,800 individuals, the 75,000-square-foot state-of-the-art concert/event venue connects to the Live! Casino floor and the AAA Four-Diamond-rated luxury accommodations at Live! Hotel in Hanover. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, sseifried@visitannapolis.org Calvert County Located on the Chesapeake Bay in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, the Rod N Reel Resort is going to be amazing in 2020! Lots of renovation and additional work will result in 5 new restaurants, double the hotel rooms, an outdoor concert venue, gorgeous wedding sites and several more fun gaming rooms. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com,hilarydailey@calvertcountymd.gov Cecil County Discover the excitement of eventing, also known as an equestrian triathlon, at the new “Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill” in 2020. The MD 5 Star will be one of only two in the USA, and 7 in the world, and will be packed with family fun, competition, and entertainment. Cecil County Tourism, Sandy Turner,www.SeeCecil.org, sturner@ccgov.org Charles County Discover the newest national marine sanctuary that will protect the remains of more than 100 abandoned steamships and vessels built as part of America’s engagement in World War I. Located along an 18-square mile stretch of Potomac River coast in Charles County, MD. Charles County Government,Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, Catherine Herbert, explorecharlescounty.com, herbertc@charlescountymd.gov Frederick County Warehouse Cinemas will open in Frederick this year with a first of its kind screen using SkyVue technology. The theater is part of an abandoned mall into District 40, an entertainment complex. Visit Frederick, Melissa Muntz, VisitFrederick.org, mmuntz@fredco-md.net Harford County Get a taste of Harford County, Maryland during Harford County Restaurant Week! This 10-day celebration of local flavors and delicious dining experiences will have you coming back for more. For a list of participating restaurants, including menus and specials, visit HarfordCountyRestaurantWeek.com. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, mindy@visitharford.com Howard County See what’s new in Howard County with Columbia Busboys and Poets, the neighborhood coffee house, restaurant, and bookstore will be the largest and farthest from D.C. coming fall 2020. Be sure to check out new hotels and events coming this year! Visit Howard County, Crystal Abrom, visithowardcounty.com, crystal@howardcountytourism.com Washington County The Conococheague Aqueduct on the C&O Canal is fully operational for the first time since 1924. Williamsport is the only place in North America with multiple working canal features in one location, including a lift lock, refurbished lockhouse, railroad lift bridge, canal turning basin, warehouse and a watered aqueduct. Visit Hagerstown, Betsy DeVore, VisitHagerstown.com, betsy@visithagerstown.com PENNSYLVANIA Pennsylvania (Commonwealth of) From new art exhibits to chocolaty attractions and even a hotel featuring cartoon favorites, Pennsylvania is ringing in the new year with fun for all. Scream on new roller coasters, splash your way through a six-story water park slides, and enjoy year-round fun at ski resorts. Pennsylvania Tourism Office, Sarah Lunny, visitPA.com, slunny@tierneyagency.com Altoona We invite you to come Build your Blair County Bucket List! Find unique adventures that you can only experience here. Cool off at American’s only Italian themed water park, Laguna Splash, enjoy a steam engine train excursion and travel a portion of the 911 trail that goes through our destination! Explore Altoona, Jennifer Fleck, explorealtoona.com, jfleck@explorealtoona.com Butler County Moraine State Park is celebrating its 50th anniversary throughout 2020. To commemorate this special occasion, Moraine is hosting 50 special events which include a variety of outdoor activities, festivals and more! Visit Moraine50.com to stay up-to-date on all the activities that are planned for the year. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Tiffany Hernandez, VisitButlerCounty.com,tiffany@visitbutlercounty.com Central Pennsylvania Aficionados of all things vintage will be in their element at Philipsburg Shindig Alley. RE Farm Cafe serves what they harvest and also exceed sustainable in all their endeavors. Read more at our blog: http://bit.ly/NewHappyValley2020. The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, Edward Stoddard,visitpennstate.org, edwards@visitpennstate.org Erie Waldameer Park & Water World debuts 6-lane Rally Racer waterslide and “Whirlwind” family spinning coaster, VisitErie immersive experiential tours, U.S. Aerial Historic Adventures boat tours, Erie County Historical Society new exhibit building/campus, Bay House Restaurant/Rooftop Bar, Hampton Inn Bayfront Hotel/Oliver’s Rooftop Bar, artistic downtown murals. VisitErie, Christine Temple, VisitErie.com, cvb1@visiterie.com Lancaster County In 2020, Lancaster County features new additions like the Wilbur Lititz boutique hotel and the world’s first Cartoon Network Hotel, debut shows “Queen Esther” at Sight & Sound and “Britain’s Best” at American Music Theatre, and the opening of the Snyder Gallery of Colonial Decorative Arts at Rock Ford Plantation. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, jcliff@discoverlancaster.com Lehigh Valley Get ready for even more opportunities for fun in summer 2020 as Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom welcomes a new addition to the waterpark. Seaside Splashworks, the new beach-themed multi-level play structure, will feature more than 75 play elements to engage the entire family for hours including six water slides. Discover Lehigh Valley, Kaitie Burger, DiscoverLehighValley.com,kaitie@discoverlehighvalley.com Montgomery County The Valley Forge Tourism & Convention Board is proud to announce the Annual Revolutionary 5-Mile Run will celebrate its 15th Anniversary in April 2020. The Rev Run is a unique challenge for runners, a five-mile course that traverses the hilly terrain of Valley Forge National Historical Park, in Montgomery County. Visit Montgomery, Emily Keel, https://www.valleyforge.org/, keel@valleyforge.org Pocono Mountains The Pocono Mountains continues to experience rapid growth in 2020. Two ski resorts, Camelback and Jack Frost/Big Boulder, have new owners and will undergo upgrades. Kalahari Resorts and Conventions has doubled its convention space to 205,000 square feet! A new Pocono Mountain Harley Davidson dealership, a destination in its own right, will open in Tannersville. Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, James Hamill, PoconoMountains.com, pr@poconos.org Reading, Berks County Pennsylvania’s Americana Region welcomes the opening of the John Updike Childhood Home in fall 2020. The Pultizer-Prize winning author lived in the home until he was 13. Updike treasured the house because it was where his “artistic eggs were hatched,” visiting it often during his career. Updike fans, plan to visit. Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, Lisa Haggerty, VisitPaAmericana.com, lisa@visitpaamericana.com WEST VIRGINIA Pocahontas County New Year means all new adventures! From attractions to activities, 2020 is going to be an adventurous year in Nature’s Mountain Playground. Snowshoe Highlands Bronze level IMBA Ride Center is West Virginia’s debut International Mountain Biking Ride Center. Hit the trails, then once you’re done, enjoy an ice cold heavy draft at the newly opened Old Spruce Brewing. Pocahontas County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Chelsea Walker, NaturesMtnPlayground.com, cwalker@pocahontascountywv.com About the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries to better promote common threads, offering story ideas about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit MATPRA.org.
Southern Delaware Outdoor Adventures: Life is more good-natured here! June 20, 2019 by Southern Delaware Southern Delaware is the perfect playground for outdoor adventurers. The natural beauty of the area is captivating. Our ocean beaches have consistently achieved 5 star ratings from Natural Resources Defense Council. In fact, our water quality has taken first place over the 29 other coastal states in the U.S. in multiple consecutive years. We sparkle! Surfing, skimboarding – Dewey Beach hosts the Zap Amateur World Championships of Skimboarding every year – beach sports and, of course, sunbathing are high on the list of activities for visitors. The jewel in the crown of Sussex County, though, is Cape Henlopen State Park. The park offers miles of beautiful hiking/biking trails that meander through coastal marshes, pine forests, and along ocean beaches. You’ll find a fishing pier, Frisbee golf, campgrounds, a nature center, cycling, hiking, and many other activities and events too. And don’t miss the scenic Gordons Pond trail that connects Rehoboth Beach with Lewes! This trail can’t be beat for pure, unspoiled coastal beauty. Trap Pond State Park, also with many beautiful trails, is a wetland forest and home to the northernmost natural stand of bald cypress trees in the United States. Have you ever taken a pontoon boat tour of a cypress swamp? At night? You can do that here in Southern Delaware! Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge is a huge draw for hikers, photographers, and birders – we’re right smack in the middle of the Atlantic Flyway, so the birding is phenomenal here. The Nanticoke River in western Sussex County – the most pristine tributary of the Chesapeake Bay – provides countless opportunities for recreation and sightseeing too. Love boating, sailing, kayaking, parasailing, skydiving, kiteboarding, stand up paddleboarding, hiking, and biking? You’ll find all of that – and more – right here. Visit us and become acquainted with our beautiful state parks and 26 miles of 5 Star ocean beaches. Explore our inland bays and bay islands, tidal marshes, and rivers. Learn how to surf fish; enjoy a pontoon boat Eco Tour; attend a lantern tour of the historic Indian River Life Saving Station; view a reenactment at Fort Miles, the WWII fort that’s been transformed into an indoor-outdoor museum in Cape Henlopen State Park; take a walking tour of historic downtown Lewes; play a round of golf (or miniature golf!), or paddle out to an uninhabited bay island. There are outdoor adventures waiting year round for visitors of every age and level of ability in Southern Delaware. Find your next adventure at www.VisitSouthernDelaware.com.
Romantic Experiences Abound Across the Mid-Atlantic January 25, 2019 by MATPRA Admin (Mid-Atlantic Region, January 25, 2019) – Love is in the air in the Mid-Atlantic! Travelers to the region discover unique getaways and activities that are perfect for couples, from romantic date nights and intimate getaways to perfect gifts for that special person, the Mid-Atlantic provides visitors with memorial travel experiences for every relationship. Members of the Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) have compiled a list of some of the most romantic places to visit and experience with that special someone. If you are interested in learning more about a specific destination, contact the individual destination marketing organization listed below. DELAWARE Delaware’s Quaint Villages Escape to a slower pace of life in Delaware’s Quaint Villages for Valentine’s Day. Indulge in wine tastings at Harvest Ridge Winery or stroll along downtown historic Milford along the Riverwalk. Rest comfortably with luxury amenities, while enjoying casino fun and great local cuisine at Dover Downs Hotel & Casino! Delaware’s Quaint Villages (Kent County, DE), Danielle Jonigan, VisitDelawareVillages.com, djonigan@visitdelawarevillages.com MARYLAND Visit Maryland Celebrate love along Maryland’s Scenic Byways. On the eastern portion of the Historic National Road, stroll along Baltimore’s famous Inner Harbor, savor Chesapeake-inspired cuisine and local beer in Frederick, enjoy the local boutique shops in Boonsboro, and take in the sights and sounds of the Hagerstown Cultural Trail. Maryland Office of Tourism, Matthew Scales, VisitMaryland.org, mscales@visitmaryland.org Annapolis & Anne Arundel County Annapolis is filled with romance. The Chesapeake Bay offers opportunities for waterfront dining and wine tastings or a two-hour cruise aboard a 74′ wooden schooner. In town, guests enjoy a pampered stay at a Historic hotel or bed and breakfast and public art, street festivals, boutique shopping, and more. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, sseifried@visitannapolis.org Baltimore With love in the air and chilly weather on the rise, spend your time in Charm City! Baltimore’s boutique hotels like the Sagamore Pendry and Hotel Revival make for the perfect couple’s getaway. Enjoy getting cozy dining fireside at Baltimore favorites like Rye Street Tavern and Woodberry Kitchen. Visit Baltimore, Abigail Vitaliano, Baltimore.org, avitaliano@baltimore.org Calvert County Just an hour’s drive from Washington, D.C, the Twin Beaches await! Explore galleries, shops and restaurants overlooking the Chesapeake Bay. Create your own fun art at Wine & Design then head to Solomons Island to create your own meal and a specialty drink under the guidance of a gourmet chef. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, hilary.dailey@calvertcountymd.gov Frederick A few hours at The Boulder Yard is a date you won’t soon forget! A full range of climbing opportunities are available for beginners and for the most experienced athletes. Spend a few hours scaling the walls and then relax with your loved one over dinner in Downtown Frederick. Visit Frederick, Melissa Muntz, VisitFrederick.org, mmuntz@fredco-md.net Hagerstown – Washington County Washington County is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Stay at the Inn Boonsboro, owned by New York Times best-selling romance novelist Nora Roberts. Take in the Maryland Symphony Orchestra’s Love Note concert, dinner and a tasting at a local winery or brewery. Visit Hagerstown and Washington County, MD, Betsy DeVore, VisitHagerstown.com, betsy@visithagerstown.com Harford County Harford County is home to the perfect date. Spend a weekend in beautiful, waterfront Havre de Grace. Dine at Lagom or MacGregor’s. Enjoy a relaxing stroll together on the promenade boardwalk. Catch a breathtaking performance at the Opera House. Rest easy in your choice of five bed and breakfast accommodations. Visit Harford, Mindy Schneider, VisitHarford.com, mindy@visitharford.com Howard County Whether you’re celebrating with your best friends, family, or significant other, Howard County has just what you need for a romantic weekend getaway! Enjoy a relaxing spa treatment, a lavish dinner on the lake, or a show at one of the renowned theatres. Visit Howard County, Crystal Abrom, VisitHowardCounty.com, crystal@howardcountytourism.com Queen Anne’s County Find your way to Queen Anne’s County’s award-winning restaurants and hotels that illuminate the waterfront backdrop. Whether you’re walking together on a trail, connecting in a cozy coffee shop, or enjoying local breweries and dock bars, Queen Anne’s County provides the setting for romance and relaxing date nights and get-a-ways. Queen Anne’s County Office of Tourism, Ashley Chenault, VisitQueenAnnes.com, achenault@qac.org PENNSYLVANIA Commonwealth of Pennsylvania From wine pairings to cocoa spa treatments, lovers in Pennsylvania will adore Chocolate-Covered February in Hershey. There’s even more luxury and romance to be had at our premier resorts including Omni Bedford Springs Resort’s mineral spa, the Lodge at Glendorn’s cabin escapes, and Nemacolin Woodlands Resort’s endless winter activities. Pennsylvania Tourism Office, Natalie Buyny, VisitPA.com, nbuyny@tierneyagency.com Butler County Head over to the charming town of Saxonburg and take the Burgh Bits and Bites Food Tour, which combines the unique history of the town with a walking and tasting tour. Afterward, rest your head at The Mainstay at Saxonburg, a cozy B&B located on Main Street. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau Tiffany Hernandez, VisitButlerCounty.com, tiffany@visitbutlercounty.com Central Pennsylvania An eye-catching opportunity for couples is a hot air balloon ride with “The Sky’s The Limit Ballooning” that offers year-round rides and beautiful views of Happy Valley. After a high-flying trip, sign up for a Chef’s Table at the Carnegie Inn & Spa, a AAA Four-Diamond Award-winning property. Central Pennsylvania Convention & Visitors Bureau, Andy Rupert, VisitPennState.org, andyr@visitpennstate.org Endless Mountains Enjoy a movie with a special someone at the Dietrich Theatre. This classic date-night destination offers annual Film Festivals, screenings of classic films and first-run features. Its location in downtown Tunkhannock, close to restaurants and wineries, makes this a fun date destination! Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, sales@endlessmountains.org Franklin County Enjoy a taste of local wineries, breweries, and delicious chocolates. Get a glimpse of the county’s scenic views and relax at the Inn at Ragged Edge, a charming and romantic bed and breakfast. End your weekend with a visit to the Copper Kettle, known for their delicious prime rib. Franklin County Visitors Bureau, Lauren E. Cappuccio, ExploreFranklinCountyPA.com, lcappuccio@explorefranklincountypa.com Gettysburg Visit Gettysburg with that special someone for a romantic getaway. Spend time sampling the area’s craft beverages or getting a couple’s massage. End the day with a romantic, candle-lit dinner in a historic tavern before settling in for the night at a charming B&B in the Adams County countryside. Destination Gettysburg, Rachel Wright, DestinationGettysburg.com, rachel@destinationgettysburg.com Greater Johnstown/Cambria County Asiago’s Tuscan Italian restaurant, perched high atop the city of Johnstown, is a romantic date hot spot. The front offers gorgeous views of the city through glass windows or dine outdoors on their deck. Take a ride on the world’s steepest vehicular inclined plane located directly adjacent to the restaurant. Greater Johnstown/ Cambria County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Olivia Bragdon, VisitJohnstownPA.com, oliviab@visitjohnstownpa.com Hershey & Harrisburg Couples (and those with cabin fever) can visit the Hershey & Harrisburg Region to partake in over 90 chocolate-inspired events offered during the annual Chocolate-Covered February’s celebration. Register for demos on cooking, baking, and bartending with chocolate, plus chocolate & wine pairings, sweet spa treatments, special menus, and more. Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, Rick Dunlap, VisitHersheyHarrisburg.org, rick@hersheyharrisburg.org Lehigh Valley Get ready for romance in Lehigh Valley. Escape to a quaint, countryside bed & breakfast for a relaxing winter getaway. Spend your days exploring the 20+ wineries dotted throughout the region or touring the seven historic covered bridges. Discover Lehigh Valley, Kaitie Burger, DiscoverLehighValley.com, kaitie@discoverlehighvalley.com Philadelphia The City of Brotherly Love caters to lovers around Valentine’s Day with events at restaurants, attractions, and other swoon-worthy spots. The Visit Philly Overnight Hotel Package is perfect for exploring all the offerings and includes free overnight parking onsite and other perks (up to $218 value). VISIT PHILADELPHIA, Daniel Davis, VisitPhilly.com, daniel@visitphilly.com Pittsburgh Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens is a green oasis situated in Pittsburgh’s lively Oakland neighborhood. Make your way over to Schenley Park to experience the historic glasshouse and vibrant botanical gardens. Indulge your senses with breathtaking seasonal flower shows and exhibits, innovative sustainable architecture, green rooftops, art collections and more. VisitPITTSBURGH, Kristin Wenger, VisitPittsburgh.com, kristin.wenger@visitpittsburgh.com Pocono Mountains Once dubbed the “Honeymoon Capital of the World,” the Pocono Mountains region holds romantic getaways of all types. More traditional, adults-only resorts are still popular and hold an ultimate opportunity for romance. Destination spas, cozy B&Bs, and modern downtown hotels are also adored by visiting couples. Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Kelly Shannon, PoconoMountains.com, kshannon@poconos.org Potter County – Tioga County Counting the stars is a romantic activity that poets have written about; there is no better place to do this than Cherry Springs Park in Potter County! Home of the popular “Dark Skies” program, visitors come from around the world to share in the magic of this natural phenomenon. Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, morgan@visitpottertioga.com VIRGINIA Alexandria Named one of the most romantic destinations in the U.S. by Amazon.com, Alexandria, Virginia, located just outside of Washington, D.C., is the perfect place for a romantic getaway. Stroll down cobblestone streets under a canopy of twinkling lights and cozy up and enjoy fireside fare in historic buildings. Visit Alexandria, Leah Spellman, VisitAlexandriaVa.com, lspellman@visitalexva.com Fairfax County Whisk your date off to Virginia wine country or plan a musical picnic under the stars at Wolf Trap. Mix it up with date night culinary classes at the Workhouse Arts Center. Visit Fairfax, Ali Morris, FXVA.com, amorris@fxva.com Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania County Book a cozy cottage at Stevenson Ridge or one of the many B&Bs in the Fredericksburg area and include the romance package to have flowers, chocolate, and/or wine delivered. George Washington’s mom will have birthday cake/punch to share on George’s Birthday at Mary Washington House to honor her son. Fredericksburg Regional Tourism, Debbie Aylor, VisitFred.com, daylor@spotsylvania.va.us Harrisonburg Check into a romantic luxury cottage at By the Side of the Road Getaway Lodging. This perfect couple’s retreat in the Shenandoah Valley offers spacious cabins with a fireplace and Jacuzzi tub. The abundance of outdoor recreation and farm-to-table dining options will have you healthy and craving more! Harrisonburg Tourism and Visitor Services, Brenda Black, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com,brenda.black@harrisonburgva.gov Prince William County Cozy up for a romantic getaway in D.C.’s Countryside, where you can sip on craft cocktails and Virginia wines while savoring incredible food, history and unforgettable experiences waiting there for you and yours. Plan a long weekend exploring small towns, eating at quaint fireside bistros and getting reconnected. Prince William County Office of Tourism, Nicole Warner, VisitPWC.com,nwarner@pwcgov.org Richmond The James River is the perfect backdrop for any date night. Stroll across the T. Tyler Potterfield Memorial Bridge for views of the rapids and the Richmond skyline. Head to Mise en Place in Shockoe Slip for a pasta-making class. End the evening with dessert and cocktails at Shyndigz. Richmond Region Tourism, Meghan Gearino, VisitRichmondVa.com, mgearino@visitrichmondva.com Shenandoah County Book a romantic flight over the Shenandoah Valley with ValleyBallooning.com. From above, experience the peace of floating through the air at sunrise or sunset while enjoying the idyllic scenes of farmland, the winding river, and the beauty of the mountains. What a great setting to make an important proposal! Shenandoah County Tourism, Jenna French, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, jfrench@shenandoahcountyva.us Winchester- Frederick County The Pembroke Springs Retreat Japanese-style bed and breakfast rests in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley just outside of Winchester, VA and an hour from D.C. This all-inclusive romantic getaway features traditional Japanese spring-fed baths, on-site hiking trails, and amazing Japanese fusion meals, transforming your date night into a blissful weekend escape! Winchester-Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau, Justin Kerns, VisitWinchesterVA.com, justin.kerns@visitwinchester.com WEST VIRGINIA Hampshire County As the oldest city in West Virginia, Romney provides the ideal location to find that perfect Valentines gift. Anderson’s Corner offers handcrafted jewelry and crafts. At B Belle’s Boutique, besides clothing, pick up the chocolate handiwork of European-trained local Eric Hott. Visit Dillons for the wide variety of specialty candles. Hampshire County CVB, DebbiSu Cassidy, CometoHampshire.com, whccvb@atlanticbbn.net About Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance The Mid-Atlantic Tourism Public Relations Alliance (MATPRA) is a cohesive unit of regional tourism partners encompassing Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia and Washington, D.C. The group serves travel journalists by creating a regional resource that ignores geographical boundaries. The Alliance promotes common threads and offers story ideas to journalists about the Mid-Atlantic region as a whole. For more information, visit www.matpra.org.