Classic Fall Festivities in the Mid-Atlantic September 2, 2022 by MATPRA Admin (September 2022) – Everyone has a favorite way to welcome fall. Whether you fancy pumpkin picking, hayrides, checking out the changing leaves, or warming up with a hot apple cider or spiced latte, here’s how to get into the fall festivities around Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia. 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. MARYLAND Allegany Autumn in Allegany County is an unparalleled experience. Two unforgettable ways to “ride” through this region include on the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad, which travels through the colorful mountains of changing leaves on a 3½-hour round trip, and on a 44-mile scenic overlook driving tour through Green Ridge State Forest. Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, MDMountainSide.com/blog/unforgettable-leaf-peeping-locations, [email protected] Annapolis & Anne Arundel Fall means Navy Football, the U.S. Sailboat and Powerboat Shows, Maryland Seafood Festival, Kunta Kinte Heritage Festival, Captain Avery Oyster Festival, and Maryland Renaissance Festival. Check out our MD Corn Maze, Great Annapolis Pumpkins, Arts in the Park, and candlelit ghost tours through the nooks and crannies of Historic Annapolis. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected] Baltimore Foodies know that fall in Baltimore means oyster season! Get to celebrating at fabulous restaurants in Charm City, including Thames Street Oyster House in bustling Fell’s Point, Nick’s Fish House on the Port Covington waterfront, or the very Instagram-able raw bar at No Way Rosé in Federal Hill. Visit Baltimore, Tracey Johnson, Baltimore.org, [email protected] Calvert The Southern Maryland Wine, Jazz, R&B and Funk Festival will be held in September. With an all new music lineup, get ready for a day of fun, great food, wine & music. Tents and coolers acceptable. No alcoholic beverages allowed. Come prepared for a great time. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected] Caroline Caroline County, Maryland. Situated on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Caroline County’s natural beauty beckons visitors to explore. Through pristine waterways and countryside, you’ll find a region brimming with rich heritage experiences, outdoor excursions, and agritourism adventures. Caroline County Office of Tourism, Tara Hill-Coursey, VisitCaroline.org, [email protected] Cecil Pair an autumn countryside with world-class equestrian competition, and you have MD 5 Star at Fair Hill in mid-October. Only 2 in the USA and 7 worldwide. Best described as an equestrian triathlon, this event is a level higher than the Olympics and one of a few athletic competitions where men and women compete against each other. Food, shopping, beer & wine fest. Cecil County Tourism. Sandy Turner, SeeCecil.org, [email protected] Harford Fall in love with Harford County, Maryland’s fall foliage and mild weather while enjoying pumpkin painting, scarecrow making, arts & crafts, live music, and food & drinks from local establishments at any of our fall festivals at locations like the Steppingstone Farm Museum or Ladew’s Garden Glow! Visit Harford, Matthew Scales, VisitHarford.com, [email protected] Kent (MD) Pay homage to the almighty oyster at Rock Hall’s FallFest. Concoct a magical potion at Chestertown’s HP Festival. Sip and savor home-grown wines after a delightful harvest and grape-stomping celebration at Crow Vineyards. Or set sail on a tall ship at the Downrigging Festival in Chestertown. Kent County Tourism, MD, Jana Carter, KentCounty.com/visitors, [email protected] Maryland (State of) Fall into fabulous Maryland festivals at Garrett County’s Autumn Glory Festival, Ocean City’s Sunfest, or St. Mary’s County’s U.S. Oyster Festival or simply wind your way on any one of our state scenic byways to discover vibrant foliage, refreshing craft beverages, or delicious dining featuring scrumptious Maryland seafood. Maryland Office of Tourism, Connie Spindler, VisitMaryland.org, [email protected] Prince George’s Fall for our agritourism. Fall for the arts. Fall for our breweries. Fall for the flavors. Fall for our landmarks. Fall for the accommodations. Fall for our wineries. Fall in love with Prince George’s County this fall and the many sensory experiences found at our farms, restaurants, trails, historic sites, museums, and attractions. Experience Prince George’s, Kaletha Henry, ExperiencePrinceGeorges.com, [email protected] Talbot Cool breezes and autumn hues adorn the Chesapeake Bay luring thousands to Talbot County fall festivals. OysterFest celebrates the mollusk with live music, cooking competitions, boat excursions, retriever demos, and more. Holiday gifts of sea-glass jewelry and art are purchased at the Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected] Wicomico Each October, the Good Beer Festival, held outdoors at Pemberton Historical Park, offers attendees a chance to enjoy the fall season with craft beer samples, games, and food. Enjoy the tastes of autumn by shopping at one of the area’s many produce markets, and pick out the perfect pumpkin. Maryland’s Wicomico County, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org, [email protected] PENNSYLVANIA Allegheny National Forest Region The brisk scent of Fall is in the air! Enjoy the beauty of the fall colors and the crunch of leaves as you hike or bike along the trails in the Allegheny National Forest. Fresh apple cider awaits at the Kinzua Bridge State Park Festival in Mt. Jewett, PA. Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau, Linda Devlin, VisitANF.com, devlin@visitanfcom Butler Sprankle’s 4th Annual Octoberfest is a three-day festival experience loaded with local vendors, musicians, special guests, and more! Sprankle’s Octoberfest is a chance to gather, celebrate, and appreciate family, friends, and community. It’s a time to enjoy a weekend of amazing food, beer, and live entertainment! Join us, raise a glass, and enjoy the festival! Prosit! Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Jeff Martinelli, VisitButlerCounty.com, [email protected] Columbia-Montour This year, the 40th Annual Covered Bridge & Arts Festival takes place October 6-9 at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds. This classic festival ushers in the start of autumn in the region and welcomes 150,000 people who come to explore 350+ handmade craft and food vendors and tour the area’s covered bridges. Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, ITourColumbiaMontour.com, [email protected] Cumberland Valley Enjoy a new fall experience this year that includes pumpkin picking, hayrides, corn mazes, fall foliage, and outdoor explorations at three state parks…all while earning prizes. The Cumberland Valley Fall Fun Trail includes 18 locations and every check-in via mobile device gets you closer to winning a prize. Cumberland Valley Visitors Bureau, Aaron Jumper, VisitCumberlandValley.com/FallFunTrail, [email protected] Erie Fiery oranges and reds, warm browns, splashes of purple and radiant golds transform Erie Pennsylvania into a dazzling display of colors. Celebrate the season with Wine Fest, ZooBoo!, Eerie Horror Film Fest, Peek n’ Peak Fall Fest, Erie Irish Festival, plus winery & brewery tours! Visit Erie, Christine Temple, VisitErie.com, [email protected] Juniata River Valley Need luck? Find your lucky bird in the Juniata River Valley during the Goose Day celebration in September. This local autumnal tradition has been observed for more than two centuries, carried here by an early settler. Legend has it that if you eat goose on St. Michaelmas Day, or locally called Goose Day, you will ensure wealth and prosperity for the coming year. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, Buffie Boyer, JRVVisitors.com/Events/Goose-Day/, [email protected] Lancaster Want to get your scare on? Your haunting won’t go wanting in Lancaster County at Field of Screams or Jason’s Woods. For a little less maniacal fright, try Happy Hauntings at Dutch Wonderland family amusement park, or ride along with a Spooky Scoot tour from Strasburg Scooters. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected] Lawrence Fall in Lawrence County is a must-do! Enjoy local farms with pick-your-own apples and pumpkins, hayrides, homemade cider, and bonfires to rent for a fun evening. The changing of leaves provides a beautiful backdrop for hiking, biking, and leaf peeping. Visit Lawrence County, Janet Falotico, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, [email protected] Lehigh Valley Autumn makes way for crisp morning walks through Lehigh Valley’s notorious farmers’ markets, covered bridges, colorful, tree-lined trails, apple orchards & pumpkin patches, and so much more. Get into the season at Fall Festival, where Grim’s Orchard offers PYO apples and pumpkins along with an obligatory hay ride you’ll love. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com/fall/, [email protected] Raystown Region Come to the Raystown Region to experience our many fall festivals! Visit historic Downtown Huntingdon for our OktoberFest celebration, see the Pumpkin Pole at the 46th Annual Hartslog Heritage Day, and ride the Pumpkin Patch Express at the East Broad Top Railroad. Find these and more on our website! Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Matt Price, Raystown.org, [email protected] Reading, Berks Forget Munich! Reading Liederkranz invites you to experience Oktoberfest stateside. Complete with authentic German foods, music, and beers (of course) the Liederkranz’s annual 5-day event won USA Today’s 10Best Oktoberfest – twice! Grab your dirndl, lederhosen, and favorite stein and head to Reading Liederkranz’s Oktoberfest for a truly unforgettable fall getaway. Pennsylvania’s Americana Region, Lisa Haggerty, VisitPaAmericana.com, [email protected] VIRGINIA Giles Historic covered bridges, smallmouth fishing on the New River, staying with the whole family in a riverside cabin, and watching college football are quintessential fall activities in Giles County. Extend the fun with fishing with Tangent Outfitters or New River Outdoor Company and finish the trip off with a picnic at the Sinking Creek Covered bridge. Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, [email protected] Hampton Fall is brewing and it’s the perfect season to create harvest memories. Rake up the fun in Hampton at several of our classic fall festivals. From the Phoebus Fall & Beer Fest to the Bluebird Gap Farm Fall Festival, you can enjoy hayrides and pumpkin pies all season long! Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, Mahogany Waldon, VisitHampton.com, [email protected] Harrisonburg Harrisonburg is surrounded by beautiful mountains with spectacular displays of fall foliage and lovely farms with apple and pumpkin picking, corn mazes, and fresh cider. Harrisonburg’s downtown is bustling with festivals and races: International Festival, Valley Pride Festival, Resolute Release Weekend, Rocktown Cyclocross, and the Shenandoah Mountain Bike Festival. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected] Norfolk September in Norfolk is an extension of summer, full of vibrant colors and beautiful days. Enjoy a day at the beach, on the Elizabeth River Trail, strolling through the city, or out on the water before watching the sky take on colors that match some of the best fall foliage. Visit Norfolk, Paige Hawsey, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected] Shenandoah Ignite your Senses at Shenandoah Autumnfest! See how Virginians barbecued whole hogs for hundreds of years. Enjoy barbeque, craft beverage tastings, music, harness racing, log splitting, and more local traditions in a colorful fall mountain setting. This year celebrating the 400th Anniversary of the introduction of honeybees to Virginia! Visit Shenandoah County, Brenda Black, Facebook.com/shenandoahautumnfest, [email protected] Stafford Catch the fall in Stafford, Virginia by hiking through the crisp air and the vibrant leaves at Crows Nest. Grab your kayak and explore Stafford’s eight-mile kayaking trail to historical Government Island or Widewater State Park. Spend your afternoon at local Oktoberfests or around the fire at a Tuscany-inspired winery. Tour Stafford Virginia, Courtney Swenson, TourStaffordVA.com, [email protected] Staunton Walks through Staunton’s historic neighborhoods, long drives through rural Augusta County, and hikes in Shenandoah National Park all make great ways to check out the Fall colors. Explore the local trails at Montgomery Hall Park, Betsy Bell Wilderness Area or climb up to Woodrow Park for stellar views of Staunton. Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected] Williamsburg Crisp, cool air means it is time to get outside. There are many trails to take you into the changing leaves of Williamsburg’s forests, wetlands, and fields. You’ll discover historical landmarks, scenic waterways, and birdwatching opportunities. For the adventurous, you can also explore the area via kayak, Segway, or zipline. Visit Williamsburg, VA, Miranda Jarrell, VisitWilliamsburg.com, [email protected] Take a look at even more images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO. 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.
Enjoy a Gastronomic Getaway in Marshall August 25, 2022 by Visit Fauquier Take a deep breath. In Fauquier County Virginia, this is our way – and it’s as relevant a motto as it is a beautiful one. Once you’ve exited I-66, you have officially entered the cozy village of Marshall, any small town lover’s dream getaway where peace is paired with quiet, and invigoratingly fresh air comes right along with the big mountain views. And you can take big bites too! Gastronomy is the art of making food, enjoying food, and celebrating how each person’s culture brings something special to our shared table. The American Heritage Dictionary defines gastronomy as the pleasures of the table, and gastronomic restaurants, coffee shops, breweries, and wineries dot the pretty hills of Marshall. To make your visit delicious and nutritious as well as easy-peasy, see our insider’s guide below. But First, Coffee For truly authentic hospitality, visit Hunt Country Coffee. They craft “designer espresso drinks and fine teas” (including organic), and guests are always raving about the almond milk latte, the shop’s comfy and cheerful ambiance, and the nice, bright daylight filtering through the windows. For some beautiful outdoor seating with your morning buzz, go to Half Past Moon Coffee Buzz. Order the honey-cinnamon latte with a pastry, quiche, or some soup, and if your coffee gives you so much energy you just can’t stand sitting anymore, take an energizing walk to nearby one-of-a-kind local shops to experience some of the best that Marshall has to offer. Lunch Spots Whether you’re wanting to dine in or grab what you need on the go, The Whole Ox is a place you really have to visit. This old-fashioned butcher shop specializes in “whole local animals from your neighbors’ farms” with NO added hormones OR antibiotics (yes, please!). They offer fresh meats, eggs, produce and bread, and a various assortment of cheeses—all the right fixings for your cute wicker picnic basket—as well as a wonderful collection of seasonal prepared foods (from Italian meatballs and red pepper tomato soup to cranberry walnut bread pudding). The Whole Ox also serves up some pretty tasty entrees (the most highly esteemed of which is the house burger, but ask about their in-house smoked bacon too!). This cool local spot offers beer and wine, so whether you go for lunch or dinner, you can take a deep, long breath and really sit back in your chair. We’ve got a hidden gem alert for you: The La Palmita Market at the Citgo station has the most authentic Mexican food. Just ask a local pumping gas and they will nod their head vigorously at you! Tacos, burritos, and the best spicy sauces to top things off, The La Palmita Market is a Marshall must. Sometimes nothing can quite hit the spot like a classic diner meal, so if that’s what you’re in the mood for, go to The Marshall Diner. They literally have everything: breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, sides (from English muffins to mozzarella sticks), and they also have Wifi for guests. Cozy up to down-home classics, and revel in the golden-fried perfection served up with a serious side of Southern hospitality. Where To Do Dinner Field and Main is the perfect spot for dinner because the food is amazing AND it comes with a show! Take a seat near the kitchen and then watch in wonder as your chef prepares the meal: shrimp and grits, Bison steak, hearth-roasted sunchokes, seared scallops… the menu is diverse and delectable, and because their desserts are ridiculously good (check out their flower-garnished ice cream, chocolate-chip-marshmallow cookies, classic carrot cake, and pumpkin creme brulee), be sure to save room for your sweet tooth. For fans of al fresco dining, be sure check out the lovely outdoor cabana to up the ante on the entire experience. Air conditioned in summer and heated in the winter, the outdoor portion of Field and Main is ready for you year-round (just be sure to book a reservation in advance!). Johnny Monarchs is the ORIGINAL American bustaurant that serves fresh and delicious food from farm to table, so you can’t visit Fauquier County and not go here. The bus, where you’ll place your everything’s-so-good-it’s-hard-to-choose order, is surrounded by a field of green with pretty plants, a stage for live music, and cozy picnic tables (and when it’s cold out, they’ll even let you eat inside the bus!). The portions are larger than life, and when it comes to fan favorites, Steak Me Away and the Classic Adult Fried Bologna both get cheers (and deserve a second round of beers). For veggie fiends, try the Veetball Sub, Piedmont Harvest Lasagna, or Piedmont Tomato Pie. It’s an unforgettable dining experience with exceptional fare! If you’re down to try something new, consider Tapatios; the area’s brand new taqueria that’s already getting stellar reviews, and their outdoor seating is so fun and festive complete with colorful flags, planters, and lights that we’d recommend going right around sunset and staying a while. As for what to order, you can’t go wrong with Birria (a special, savory stewed beef) tacos or a grilled-to-perfection chicken quesadilla. For a no-regrets, make-everyone-happy kind of meal, order a cheesy hometown pie or other Italian favorite at Joe’s Pizza. Our vote: a large Bianca with a side of calamari. Now, that’s amore! Save Time for Wine and Pie As a lover of all things epicurean, Fauquier has more than great coffee and food; the county boasts more vineyards and wineries than we could possibly list here! And be sure to check out our event calendar to stay in-the-know before you experience this relaxation destination for yourself! One more culinary selling point: Do you remember President Barack Obama raving about this special apple pie one year? It was none other than the famously good apple pie at Red Truck Bakery, home to an apple pie so delicious that he posted about it on the White House website! When you come into town for your own sweet slice, also ask about their seasonal cake (and booze cake) offerings. In the summer, the Meyer Lemon and Honeysuckle & Sweet Tea varieties are heavenly, and in the fall, their Shenandoah Apple Cake is sinfully good. The menu includes gluten-free sweets too, though it isn’t all desserts—you can come here for the great coffee and sandwiches alone, and if you want to try their cake before you actually get here, you’re in luck because they can ship anywhere! We hope you have the best time wining, dining, and breathing in deep here in the village of Marshall and when you snap that pic of yourself with some apple pie or your friend grinning in front of the coolest European double-decker bus, be sure to tag us at #fauquiercounty so we can smile right along with you.
Norfolk, VA’s Breweries August 15, 2022 by Visit Norfolk Norfolk’s Breweries – Find the Brewery For You Breweries are the new neighborhood pubs and lucky for us, Norfolk’s brewery scene has taken off! With multiple breweries calling Norfolk their home and more to open within the year, Norfolk welcomes all beer enthusiasts. Below you’ll find a quick guide that enlightens you on all the breweries in Norfolk. Elation Brewing Company Elation brings great happiness, hence the name, to Norfolk’s Larchmont neighborhood. Here, at Norfolk’s only brewpub, you’ll find black leather chairs accompanied with high top tables made of old bowling alley lanes, that complement the overarching centerpiece of the brewery, the bar. It might seem obvious that the bar is the centerpiece, but the arch that resides over Elation’s bar was handcrafted by the owner himself, an architect guru. The remainder of the space is filled with Oktoberfest style tables, made from reclaimed wood from Suffolk, VA’s planters peanut factory. Elation brews all different types of beer while also serving local Virginia wine for those who are gluten-free or simply love the grapes more than the hops. Be sure not to miss the two-dollar grilled cheese and Sunday brunch! Rip Rap Brewing Company Just outside of the Ghent neighborhood (and a four min walk from O’Connor Brewery) lives the Chesapeake Bay-themed microbrewery, Rip Rap. Their once four tap menu has now more than doubled offering many much-loved brews. This being said they brew in smaller batches and once the barrel is gone, it is gone. With their ever-revolving beer list, you’re in for a surprise with each visit allowing Rip Rap to continue to surprise their customers while giving the brewery an exclusive feel. Picnic tables and board games fill the brewery with a mural of coastal waterways that is the main decor focus paying tribute to the owners’ Coast Guard roots. Veil Brewing Co. A Richmond favorite opened its doors to their second establishment, this time in the heart of Norfolk’s up-and-coming Railroad District. This new three-story brewery features taps on all floors, a rooftop balcony overlooking the city, and the minimalistic and modern interior plays well the neon art displayed and garage doors that open up into the community. Their rotating selection of favorite IPAs, like the Crucial Taunt – a beloved house Citra double IPA, or Never Recover3 – a fruity gose with triple boysenberry and fresh peach purée will quench any beer lover’s palate. Serving highly sought after beers without the long lines that normally come with it, this spacious and energetic brewery welcomes guests to experience handcrafted beers with unique flavor profiles on draft or to grab them canned or bottled to-go. With a full kitchen by Codex Chef, Ian Hock, you’ll find mouth-watering double stacked burgers and delicious tacos to go alongside the beer of your choice. Reaver Beach Brewery Before we dive into their unique Sours and award-winning IPAs, the historic building Reaver is housed in holds stories which make this brewery more of a destination tied to American history instead of a place to slug brews. The building was formerly a post office that dates back to 1945. While inside you will notice an upstairs portion to the brewery which is also classified as a catwalk – original to the layout of the post office. Today, this catwalk is enlisted as an adults-only area with tables and chairs, but back in the day inspectors used these catwalks to prevent crime. Their purpose was to monitor for high profile coach and carrier robberies, but mainly focused their spying on the sorting and delivery activity of the postal staff. Inspectors would use secluded back doors to sneak into the post office, and today, that hidden stairwell is now a mini museum to showcase Reaver Beach’s evolution as a brewery. @reaverbeach, Instagram Now let’s talk beer. They are known for their unmatched IPAs like Hoptopus and their incomparable Sours like the Red Messenger. Their Hoptopus collection is a crowd pleaser and they offer six variants of this hoppy IPA year-round. Another staple is their Tidal Wave, an American Wild Ale that is brewed using a Coolship and fermented spontaneously by microflora native to our coastal Virginia home. Similar to other breweries, Reaver Beach is dog friendly (inside and out), hosts live music and rotates a line up of food trucks outside on their patio. For more information about Norfolk’s breweries check out Brew Norfolk! Smartmouth Brewing Company You might have heard of this Norfolk-born brewery — they made national news for their Lucky Charm’s beer, Saturday Morning — ring a bell? Well whether you’ve heard of Smartmouth or not, this brewery puts out some creative beers with even more imaginative cans. Located in the Chelsea District, just outside downtown, Smartmouth hosts many events year-round including street parties and concerts. Food trucks frequent the brewery or find delicious Norfolk restaurants such as Orapax and theBakehouse at Chelsea only steps away. @_sydneybarrett Bold Mariner Brewing Company Located in an old bank building in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Ocean View, this veteran-owned craft brewery will have you feeling like a local in no time, as their welcoming demeanor is contagious! Housed inside Bold Mariner is BBQ favorite, Bar-Q, a local favorite barbecue spot that specializes in beef brisket and craft scratch sausages. Don’t stress, their revolving draft selections are equally as flavorful as the food. Frogman Lager is their fan favorite and rightfully so, the lager has won numerous Virginia Craft Beer awards. COVA Brewing Co. COVA is nestled in the heart of East Ocean View, also known as East Beach, and is owned by two local families whose passions brought this project to life. COVA’s building was formerly an auto repair shop but has been beautifully transformed into a coastal influenced brew-house, offering both craft beers and coffee. Cedar slatted counters imitate beachy dune fencing and the color schemes throughout reflect the palette and sheen of sea glass. While they’ve kept the classic garage door look, you would have never guessed the building’s previous life. @coastalvamag, Instagram Their slogan, “there’s always something brewing at COVA…” not only refers to the frothy liquids that fill their fermenters, but also their tasty craft coffees. Coffeehouse by day and brewery at night, COVA has mastered quenching our thirst no matter the time of day, and their ingredients are often combined in both aspects – sip a mocha latte or enjoy the same flavor palette in their Mocha Madness Porter. What’s truly unique is that you can pour your own beer with their self serve taps from copper handles, chosen for their antibacterial properties. Benchtop Craft Brewing Company Located in the Chelsea District, Benchtop offers some of the most unique beer combinations you may ever sip on. The owner, Eric, started his career as a food scientist but left his role to further his creativity in the form of beer. Benchtop uses Norwegian yeast which ferments at a much higher temperature allowing them to produce beer faster — they’re one of the only breweries in the country to do so and it allows them to try new recipes more frequently. Just how unique are their beer creations? We suggest visiting the brewery for yourself to find out but to tease your taste buds, their Chapulin Exchange is a beer made with grasshoppers (inspired by grasshopper street tacos), and Quick Pickle beer is a goze beer that uses pickles and carrots. So be sure to stop by to try something new while geeking out with Eric over these culinary experiences via beer! Maker’s Craft Brewery Enjoy local brews and Emerson cigars at Maker’s Craft Brewery at their onsite cigar lounge. Set in a historic 1906 burlap bag factory, this brewery incorporates the old with the new. The bar is made from reclaimed wood while brick walls line the interior and old cobblestones (found during construction) decorate their outdoor patio. Their beers take “local ingredients” to the next level by using a ghost pepper plant from a customer’s backyard in their ghost pepper stout. All the grains from production are repurposed and sent to a local Virginia Beach farm to provide feed for the cows. Maker’s also has food trucks Thursday through Saturday, coffee, a popcorn machine and pool tables for you to enjoy. @_addyskitchen_, Instagram O’Connor Brewing Co. O’Connor kick-started the brewery scene in Norfolk in 2010 and we couldn’t be happier they did. Of course they have delicious beers and offer multiple flagship beers, as well as limited releases, but one of the best parts ofO’Connor’s is their atmosphere. Their welcoming vibe and large outdoor bier garden make for a perfect afternoon of sippin’ brews, and their annual events will give you some serious FOMO if you aren’t in attendance! For instance, their anniversary celebration coincides with St. Patrick’s Day every year, making it a can’t miss event. With yoga classes, food truck pop-ups, a farmers market and so much more, there is always something to partake in at O’Connor Brewery.
A Stargazer’s Guide to the Laurel Highlands August 9, 2022 by Laurel Highlands PA The Laurel Highlands is hustling and bustling with bikers, hikers, families, rafters, and foodies during the day, but what outdoorsy activity can you do once the sun goes down? Get lost in the stars! While there aren’t any dark sky sites in the region, we know a few spots where there is minimal light pollution and not too much tree coverage, making it a great place to get a mesmerizing view of the constellations. Laurel Hill State Park Like all state parks in the Laurel Highlands, Laurel Hill State Park closes at dusk, but they still want you to enjoy the beautiful view of the stars. If you want to stargaze in the large parking lot near Laurel Hill Lake, just give the park office a heads up by calling them and providing the make and model of your vehicle and you’re good to go! Laurel Hill sits at a high elevation and has little light pollution, making it a great stargazing spot. This would be a perfect way to end a day exploring the spectacular state park! Forbes State Forest Gather your friends, head to Forbes State Forest, and hang out under the stars! The state forest offers more than one area that is absolutely perfect for stargazing. Where else could you get a better view than the highest point in the entire state? Mount Davis may require a little bit of a hike, but it’s totally doable in the dark. Remember to pack flashlights! Another great place to set up shop is Roaring Run Natural Area, right off of Fire Tower Road via Route 31. The lack of trees in this area gives you a big wide open to lay on your back and take it all in. The Historic Summit Inn Resort The Historic Summit Inn Resort is one of the best locations to watch the sunset in the Laurel Highlands. One of the only remaining grand porch hotels in America, the Summit has an amazing great veranda front porch. Get there early and enjoy dinner before starting your stargazing adventure with an incredible view of the astounding sunset. Vin de Matrix Winery As if the name doesn’t give it away, Vin de Matrix Winery in Rockwood is completely celestially themed! The winery’s name was inspired by the star Vindemiatrix, the third brightest star located in the Virgo constellation, which means “the grape gatherer.” While you can’t stargaze here, you can grab a bottle of Cosmic Cord, Sirius Red, or Beetlejuice Berry to enjoy wherever you’re laid back staring at the night sky! Campgrounds Make your outdoorsy outing complete by sleeping under the stars at a campground. If you’re feeling adventurous, sleep outside of the tent or play it safe and rent a cozy cabin. Regardless, you’ll have a great view of the sky with the sound of the fire crackling nearby. Tips and Tricks: Many state parks and organizations host special events like night hikes, sunset snowshoeing, and educational outings. Keep your eyes peeled for outdoor events as they are announced. Google a meteor shower schedule and mark dates in your calendar. During the Perseids meteor shower in August, you can see up to 60 meteors per hour! While full and super moons are fascinating, new moons are just as gorgeous. Even natural light hides the stars, so new moons show off layers and layers of glistening stars you couldn’t see any on another day! State parks close at dusk, even their parking lots. Please abide by this rule!
Fun for the Family in the Mid-Atlantic August 8, 2022 by MATPRA Admin (August 2022) – Before it’s time to pack up the kids to head off to school, pack their bags for one last summer hurrah! The Mid-Atlantic region has so many ways to enjoy some family-friendly fun. Here’s what Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia have in store. 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 & the Brandywine Valley Pay a visit to the large-on-personality lemurs at the Brandywine Zoo. Then, head to the Riverfront for some mini golf. Next, take the kids to the Delaware Children’s Museum to explore its 30-foot diameter climbing structure, the Stratosphere. Finally, check out the three life-sized dinosaurs at the all-new Delaware Museum of Nature and Science. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, Jennifer Boes, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, [email protected] MARYLAND Allegany Pedaling on the historic Western Maryland Railway – and alongside the Great Allegheny Passage – Tracks and Yaks is Maryland’s only rail biking experience. New this year, families can “ride the rails” in two ways: a scenic rail biking trip to Cumberland with a train ride back via the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad! Allegany County, The Mountain Side of Maryland, Mindy Bianca, TracksandYaks.com, [email protected] Annapolis & Anne Arundel Step back in time at the nation’s second largest Renaissance Festival. Eat your fill at the World’s Largest Crab Feast. Get your culture fix at our arts, music, and wine festivals. Experience the thrill of our Wednesday Night Sailboat Races, and dive deep into our nautical heritage at Annapolis Maritime Museum. Visit Annapolis & Anne Arundel County, Susan Seifried, VisitAnnapolis.org, [email protected] Baltimore End the summer with a BIG bang! Pack a picnic and trek to the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore for the limited-time DINOSAURS exhibit. Dino lovers of all ages will learn about the prehistoric wonders while marveling at full-sized robotic dinosaurs that look, move, and roar like the real thing! Visit Baltimore, Tracey Johnson, Baltimore.org, [email protected] Calvert From sweet kettle corn made right before your eyes, to sweet, fresh U-pick berries to extreme milkshakes, the Calvert County Sweet Treat Trail satisfies any sweet tooth! (Online, interactive trail map available on our website.) Calvert County Department of Economic Development, Hilary Dailey, ChooseCalvert.com, [email protected] Harford Harford has family fun at every part of the county. Travel along the Harford County Snowball Trail, step back in time at the Steppingstone Farm Museum, discover the “Decoy Capital of the World,” catch an Ironbirds baseball game and stop in Amazing Glaze to create your own masterpiece! Visit Harford, Matthew Scales, VisitHarford.com, [email protected] Maryland (State of) Build sandcastles on the beach or demolish a cow-to-cone ice cream. Scream your head off on a mountain roller coaster. Get back to nature on a drive-through safari or gaze at distant worlds through the Hubble Space Telescope. In Maryland, the opportunities for family fun are practically limitless. Maryland Office of Tourism, Connie Spindler, VisitMaryland.org/list/top-family-friendly-things-do, [email protected] Prince George’s Make the most of your summer by making it an adventure! Ongoing family fun awaits you at Six Flags America with rides carrying you to new heights and tempting your inner daredevil. Thrills continue for all ages amid the amusements, games, and entertainment. Slide into cool at Hurricane Harbor, the largest water park in the region. Experience Prince George’s, Kaletha Henry, ExperiencePrinceGeorges.com, [email protected] Talbot Families create memories together with one-of-a-kind Talbot County experiences. An Oxford-Bellevue Ferry ride – America’s oldest privately owned ferry route – uncovers miniature beaches for foraging sea glass; a working crab boat cruise recounts the fishermen’s way of life; and a kayak outing reveals herons, egrets, and the beautiful Chesapeake Bay landscape. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, Krista Boothby, TourTalbot.org, [email protected] Wicomico Take a walk through the Salisbury Zoo, which has free admission, and visit more than 100 animals that call the zoo home, including two Andean bear cubs. Kids can play on the adjacent Ben’s Red Swings playground. Families can also enjoy cheering on the Delmarva Shorebirds minor league baseball team. Maryland’s Wicomico County, Vanessa Junkin, WicomicoTourism.org, [email protected] PENNSYLVANIA Bradford Mt. Pisgah State Park offers families a fantastic destination for a summer getaway. Mountains. Primitive campsites, picnic areas, trails, and a freshwater lake at the historic site known for its amazing views of the beautiful Endless Mountains combine to offer visitors a wonderful destination for families to connect with nature. Bradford County Tourism Promotion Agency, Morgan Christopher, VisitBradfordCounty.com, [email protected] Butler What started as a plowing contest in 1947 has grown into a family tradition as a premier event showcasing Butler County’s farming community. Traditional farm-related activities are the staples but don’t miss the 6 days of arts & crafts, truck & tractor pulls, incredible food, midway, music, entertainment, and rides. Butler County Tourism & Convention Bureau, Jeff Martinelli, VisitButlerCounty.com, [email protected] Columbia-Montour Learn some of the fascinating stories and history of Central Pennsylvania this summer with the digital Columbia-Montour Summer Heritage Passport. Visit various participating museums, attractions, historic hidden gems, and heritage sites and check in for a chance to win prizes. It’ll be an all-around fantastic summertime adventure with the whole family! Columbia-Montour Visitors Bureau, Linda Sones, ITourColumbiaMontour.com, [email protected] Endless Mountains of Northeastern Pennsylvania The historic Dietrich Theater in Tunkhannock is a cultural center known for family entertainment, multi-disciplinary arts and performance workshops, and as a movie house offering film festivals, first-run favorites, and special shows. Families will delight in the wide variety of options for kids to express their creativity and experience the arts. Endless Mountains Visitors Bureau, Morgan Christopher, EndlessMountains.org, [email protected] Erie Make your Lake Escape to Erie Pennsylvania! Erie is Pennsylvania’s only Great Lakes Port and features a variety of fun, family-friendly things to do in an easy, stress-free, relaxing environment. Erie’s attractions provide plenty of time to enjoy a great meal, shop, and give the kids (and parents) down time. Visit Erie, Christine Temple, VisitErie.com/things-to-do/family-fun/, [email protected] Juniata River Valley Once a flourishing town during the 19th century ironmaking days, Greenwood Furnace State Park celebrates its heritage with walking tours that explore portions of the original town, tramway, historic roads, and charcoal hearths. The park also features a six-acre lake with a beach area, hiking trails, a campground, and fishing. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, Buffie Boyer, JRVVisitors.com, [email protected] Lancaster Top off summer with a classic family three-some in Lancaster County: Strasburg Rail Road and its 45-minute Amish farmlands ride to Paradise and back on America’s oldest short-line; Turkey Hill Experience and its cool interactive exhibits about its ice cream & tea flavors; and top-rated Dutch Wonderland children’s amusement park. Discover Lancaster, Joel Cliff, DiscoverLancaster.com, [email protected] Lehigh Valley Put on your thinking caps to test your knowledge at Lehigh Valley’s Da Vinci Science Center, where hands-on exhibits make science fun. Then, cool your brain off with a homemade scoop of ice cream from Klein Farms Dairy & Creamery! Be sure to take a farm tour while you’re there. Discover Lehigh Valley, Alicia Quinn, DiscoverLehighValley.com/things-to-do/things-to-do-with-kids, [email protected] Pennsylvania (Commonwealth of) Mister C’s Funspot & Ice Cream Stand is a fun activity all ages can enjoy. Boasting the region’s largest banana split, homemade apple dumplings, water wars, and of course miniature golf – this is a must-do! Visit Lawrence County, Janet Falotico, VisitLawrenceCounty.com, [email protected] Potter-Tioga All aboard the Ole Covered Wagon Tour for one of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon region’s favorite family experiences. Enjoy a ride along scenic Pine Creek Trail on a horse-drawn wagon. This leisurely experience offers families a delightful opportunity to create memories while exploring one of the state’s most popular attractions! Visit Potter-Tioga, Morgan Christopher, VisitPotterTioga.com, [email protected] Raystown Region Have your end-of-summer bash with a day trip to DelGrosso’s Amusement Park & Laguna Splash! One side is a waterpark with a variety of slides, lazy river, kiddie play pool, and wave pool. Cross the bridge and you’ll find a full-fledged amusement park for all ages! Don’t leave without trying DelGrosso’s famous Italian cuisine, a Marianna hoagie, or Murph’s potato salad! Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Liza Gutshall, Raystown.org, [email protected] VIRGINIA Fairfax Get hands-on in Fairfax County by stepping into George Washington’s shoes through a digital classroom-style game at his home. Nearby, test out G-STEM activities at a new military museum or fly simulator airplanes at a Smithsonian mainstay. Little ones will especially enjoy feeding baby animals at two area zoo parks. Visit Fairfax, Ali Morris, FXVA.com, [email protected] Giles The award-winning Mountain Lake Lodge – located amid a nature preserve with 22 miles of hiking and biking trails in Giles County – has long been popular for family time together. They offer family-friendly packages to enjoy this summer Summer Breeze, Stay and Play and Treetops Adventure. Come and enjoy! Giles County, VA Tourism, Cora Gnegy, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, [email protected] Hampton Hampton’s Virginia Air & Space Science Center’s newest gallery, “The SPACE” will bring hands-on learning experiences and fun for families with children. SPACE stands for Smile, Play, Achieve, Create, Explore. It includes a digital airplane studio, an interactive literary center, junior pilot training, a Cloud Climber, and a planetarium without walls. Hampton Convention and Visitor Bureau, Mahogany Waldon, VisitHampton.com, [email protected] Harrisonburg Visit Harrisonburg’s Explore More Discovery Museum featuring an 8+ makers space, play stage, airplane, farmers market, and brand new third-floor demonstration kitchen. Grab lunch at Ruby’s arcade with pizza and games or visit the Brethren and Mennonite Heritage Center’s historic buildings, including a one-room schoolhouse, blacksmith shop, forge, and more. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitor Services, Jennifer Bell, VisitHarrisonburgVA.com, [email protected] Lexington & Rockbridge Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge is a top family destination in Virginia! Hop aboard the narrated wagon ride to visit a wide variety of animals across 180 acres. Enjoy the Village Walk-Thru, home of kangaroos, giraffes, penguins, rare king cheetahs, white rhinos, and more! Personal animal encounters offered daily. Lexington & Rockbridge Area Tourism, Patty Williams, LexingtonVirginia.com, [email protected] Norfolk Back your bags and get ready for an incredible family vacation to Norfolk, VA. Spend the days playing at the beach or get inspired as you explore Nauticus and The Battleship Wisconsin. Catch a Tides baseball games at Harbor Park as you enjoy a weekend away before summer ends. Visit Norfolk, Paige Hawsey, VisitNorfolk.com, [email protected] Shenandoah Shenandoah County offers end-of-summer fun for all ages. Start at Bryce Resort for a round of golf, or mountain bike excursion, cool off at Lake Laura, enjoy Shenandoah Caverns – a cool 57’ year-round, then watch the frying process and taste a salty treat at the Route 11 Potato Chip Factory. Visit Shenandoah County, Brenda Black, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, [email protected] Stafford Discover George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm, and unearth your inner archaeologist. Cool off from the heat at the Cavalier Family Skating Center for a summer skate session. Then, end the day with a sweet treat at Tilly’s Homemade Ice Cream. Explore the variety of family-friendly fun in Stafford. Tour Stafford Virginia, Courtney Swenson, TourStaffordVA.com, [email protected] Staunton From historical sites to outdoor adventures to family-friendly places to eat and play, there’s so much to do in Staunton. Enjoy the great outdoors at Gypsy Hill Park, step back in time at the Frontier Culture Museum, solve puzzles at Crack the Code or grab something special at Pufferbellies. Staunton, VA, Jessica Williams, VisitStaunton.com, [email protected] Williamsburg If you and the kids are looking for something exciting to do, you’re in luck. In Williamsburg, VA you can visit world-class theme parks with roller coasters that will have you touching the sky and water slides with gravity-defying drops. Or, you can spend the afternoon zip-lining through the treetops or chasing thrills at every turn in a roaring go-kart race. Visit Williamsburg, VA, Miranda Jarrell, VisitWilliamsburg.com, [email protected] Take a look at even more images from across the Mid-Atlantic. Please be sure to provide photo credit to the appropriate DMO. 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.
The Best Golfing in the Erie Region July 29, 2022 by Visit Erie The Erie region is home to several golf courses that welcome every type of golfer from beginner to professional. Sharpen your game and test your skills across their sprawling fairways and beautifully landscaped greens. Whether you shoot a 72 or 144, there’s nothing like spending a couple hours, or even an afternoon, out on the golf course. Here are our suggestions for the best golfing in the Erie area. Peek‘n Peak Resort The Upper Course at Peek’n Peak is a championship-caliber, par 72 course and is perfect for players of all skill levels. The unique terrain and natural landscape creates an atmosphere that is unlike any other course. The panoramic views and mature woods give a serene experience to all who are on the course whether it be during spring, summer, or fall. Erie Golf Club Erie Golf Club is an 18-hole par 69 course, designed by the prolific American golf course architect A.W. Tillinghast. Enjoy lunch or dinner with a cocktail on their patio while watching the sunset and scenic views of the course. Erie Golf Club is a PGA operated facility with a fully stocked pro shop and a friendly staff of golfers. Riverside Golf Course Founded in 1915, Riverside Golf Course is one of the oldest courses in northwestern Pennsylvania. The 18-hole, par 72 course features rolling fairways, manicured greens, over 48 sand traps and 6 lakes spanning 242 acres. The newly renovated Rambler at Riverside restaurant offers contemporary American cuisine and overlooks the golf course. Photo by John Mangine Mound Grove Golf Course Mound Grove Golf Course features a beautiful scenic 18-hole, par 72 golf course set against the backdrop of an historic 1860’s barn/restaurant. Year-round private and online golf lessons with their Golf Academy and Professional Coaching program are available by appointment. Lake View Country Club Lake View Country Club is a private 18-hole, par 72 golf club that offers one of the most challenging and beautiful courses in the area, with an elite practice facility that golfers of all skill levels can enjoy. Lake View was built by legendary golf course architect and Donald Ross protégé James G. Harrison. The club has hosted several prestigious tournaments, including the West Penn Amateur Championship and the Pennsylvania State Amateur Championship. Harbor Ridge Golf Club Harbor Ridge offers an enjoyable round, for golfers of all ages and skill levels with expansive views of Lake Erie. It is a family-friendly public 9-hole, par 36 golf course, bar, and restaurant complex. Their course features bent grass tees, fairways, and greens from four sets of regulation tees. Bring young golfers out to their USGA slope/rated family tees.