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

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Explore history, culture, and classic American towns along Route 15

Take a road trip along Route 15 from Loudoun County, Virginia through Frederick, Maryland, and Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and centuries of American stories come to life.

These regions are known for Civil War history, great wine, and delicious food served up in historic buildings. Yet, there are so many more stories to find here.

Discover stories of our Black history and culture, uncover lesser-known stories from World War II as we commemorate the conflict’s 80th anniversary, and visit three thriving communities with vibrant Main Streets that combine history, shopping, dining, and walkability.

Black History and Culture

Leesburg has become a vibrant public arts hub, with a contemporary sculpture garden, guided public art tours and scores of murals– many depicting the extraordinary contribution of African Americans to the county’s history.

The wall of the Loudoun Museum depicts Bazil Newman, a Black 19th Century Loudoun landowner taking a young Black boy across the Potomac River to Maryland at night. A short walk away, on the walls of the town’s public garage, vibrant murals depict beloved local barbershop owner Nelson “Mutt” Lassiter and Marie Medley-Howard, said to be the first African American woman to own a business in town. Just outside town is the Historic Douglass High School Education and Development Campus, which opened in May 2023 on the site of Loudoun’s first Black high school.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the building features a playground that celebrates African American history and culture, including a Hall of Heroes structure modeled on the shape of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington.

In Frederick County, there’s centuries of Black history told at local sites and museums. In Thurmont, you’ll find the Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, an organization that preserves and interprets an iron furnace and company village with roots back to the 18th century. The Museum of the Ironworker and the African American Cemetery Interpretative Trail tells the story of the enslaved workers who toiled at the furnace in its earliest years.

Head into Downtown Frederick and take a walking tour with the AARCH Society, detailing the history of All Saint Streets, the historically Black neighborhood at the heart of the city.

Visitors can spend an entire day diving into an integral part of Gettysburg’s history that has often been overlooked. The diverse people, places and stories that make up the tapestry of this town are chronicled through the Gettysburg Black History Trail. Launched in 2024, the self-guided trail includes interactive museums, battlefield locations and historic downtown sites. 

80th Anniversary of World War II

Visit the former residence of George C Marshall, just minutes from Route 16. A National Historic Landmark, the site is now known as Dodona Manor and where Marshall lived from 1941 until 1959. During his residency, Marshall served our nation as Chief of Staff of the Army, Special Envoy to China, Secretary of State, President of the American Red Cross and Secretary of Defense. General Marshall was the architect of the European Recovery Plan (The Marshall Plan) and awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1953. Both Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill described him as “the greatest American of the 20th century.” More than 90 percent of the items in the house belonged to the Marshalls when he lived there.

Discover secret stories from World War II at Catoctin Mountain Park in northern Frederick County. Created as a national park in the 1930s, the park became a training ground for the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) agents before they headed off to serve behind enemy lines in World War II. The OSS was the predecessor to the CIA.

A five-star general of World War II before he became America’s 34th president, Dwight D. Eisenhower and his wife Mamie resided in Gettysburg for several years. Their tranquil farm, the only home Ike and Mamie ever owned, is preserved today as Eisenhower National Historic Site. Visitors can tour the house seasonally and walk the very grounds Eisenhower once did. 

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After exploring the Eisenhower home, head over to World War II American Experience and get up close to tanks, Jeeps and other military vehicles. Dozens of uniforms and rare artifacts in this museum illustrate the sacrifices of the Greatest Generation, from the front lines to the home front. 

3 towns on a historic byway

Visit Virginia’s largest small town, Leesburg, known for restaurants, cafes, bars, breweries, boutiques and chic home décor stores. Dine on oysters, tacos and farm-to-table fare on King Street (our restaurant row), and visit any of a dozen or so artisanal coffee shops along the Leesburg Coffee Corridor. There’s a vibrant art and music scene too, with several museums, galleries, murals and a concert venue – Tally Ho.

Though it might be Maryland’s 2nd largest city, Frederick is home to a 50-block historic district that feels like a small town at the foot of Catoctin Mountain. Downtown Frederick is home to 200+ independent and locally owned shops and restaurants.

The stories of the past blend with small town charm of the present in Gettysburg’s walkable downtown, where Civil War era homes are nestled between eclectic shops and restaurants. From fine dining by candlelight to sipping beer in a local brewery, culinary experiences await to satisfy your cravings. Family farms in the Adams County countryside provide a bounty of fresh ingredients that bring the cuisine to another level. 

Best Fall Festivals in Fairfax County, Virginia

Fall is one of the most exciting times of the year in Fairfax County. Between crisper weather (prime for exploring local trails) and looking forward to the holiday season (up first: Halloween!), this area knows how to kick off the festival season.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the best fall festivals and events in Northern Virginia for the whole family in 2024. Bookmark these for the best festivals this autumn, and check out the full list of all fall festivals here. More are being added every day!


September

Mount Vernon Colonial Market and Fair
September 14-15

Mount Vernon Colonial Market and FairImage courtesy Mount Vernon

Colonial-attired artisans demonstrate 18th-century crafts and sell traditional wares on the grounds of George Washington’s estate. The Colonial Market and Fair also features lively 18th-century entertainment including music, fire-eating, sword-swallowing, puppet and magic shows, plus hearty specialty food for sale onsite. Need additional reasons to attend Mount Vernon? Check here.
 

Cox Farms Fall Festival
Opening weekend September 14-15; runs through November 5

Hayrides at Cox Farm - Fall - Drone Capture

Cox Farms Fall Festival has been a family tradition for thousands of Fairfax County families for more than 40 years. The most popular Fall Festival attractions are the famous hayride (around the pond, through the woods, and ending in the Enchanted Barn), five giant slides, the Cornundrum cornfield adventure, rope swings, hay tunnels and more. Don’t miss Foamhenge, an accurate life-size replica of Stonehenge made of Styrofoam plus the scary Fields of Fear hayride and haunted adventure in the evenings.

 

Perchfest Fall: Music & Mini Golf Festival
September 20-21

The Perch - Sign- April Greer - OBVFX - Tysons

Have you ever attended a festival 11 stories high? Make sure to add PerchFest to your fall festival list because this is one event you won’t want to miss! Before or after catching the incredible Shrek the Musical, head up to Perch Putt for a special Shrek-themed surprise. Guests can enjoy Shrek-inspired activities, food trucks, Instagrammable moments, and FREE pop-up massages!

 

Mosaic District’s Annual Fall Festival
September 28-29

Enjoy live entertainment and music, a FRESHFARM Farmers Market with 50+ vendors, Beer Garden from Caboose Brewing Company and Wine Garden, and more at Mosaic District’s Annual Fall Festival on September 28 and 29!

October

Vienna Oktoberfest
October 5

Vienna's Oktoberfest - Press Release - Fall - EventsImage courtesy Vienna Business Association

Come to historic Church Street in downtown Vienna and enjoy beer, wine, German and other international foods, live music, vendors, kids’ activities, and free admission at the annual Vienna Oktoberfest!


City of Fairfax Fall Festival
October 12

City of Fairfax Fall Festival - Kids - Family
Image courtesy City of Fairfax

Enjoy over 400 arts, crafts, food & gourmet food vendors, children’s activities, and three stages of music and entertainment for all ages at this classic fall festival held in and hosted by the nearby City of Fairfax.


Clifton Day Festival
October 13

Clifton Day

On October 13, attend the beloved Clifton Day Festival. The 2024 festival will feature a marketplace with hundreds of artisans, live music, pony rides and other children’s activities, a beer and wine garden, and more. Pro tip: Clifton Day is also the only day of the year that the Virginia Railway Express train stops in the town, so be sure to grab a ride into Clifton! 

 

DMV Chocolate & Coffee Festival
October 16-17

DMV Chocolate & Coffee Festival Logo

The top coffee shops and roasters are meeting up with the best chocolatiers, gourmet food purveyors, and artisans at an event so delicious you won’t even be able to stand it! Head to the Dulles Expo Center on October 16-17 to taste, sip, and get a head start on your holiday shopping at this family-friendly DMV Chocolate & Coffee Festival in Chantilly.

 

November

Bull Run Festival of Lights and Holiday Village
Mid-November – early January 

Bull Run Festival of Lights - Holidays - Winter - Light - Ferris Wheel Shows

Every year from Thanksgiving until just after New Year’s Day, you can experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles of illuminated holiday light displays. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus (holiday village open select nights). Want more light shows? Check here.
 

 

Meadowlark Gardens Winter Walk of Lights
Mid-November – early January 

Meadowlark Winter Walk of Lights - Light Show - Vienna - Holidays

Every year from mid-November until just after New Year’s Day, the garden is transformed into a winter wonderland. The half-mile enchanting walk features lighted nature themes and animated displays to get you in the holiday mood.  This trail is paved for wheelchairs and strollers! 

 

Bonus:

The holiday season is fast approaching! Keep tabs on Fairfax County’s winter guide for updated events, travel ideas, and more.

Want more festival fun for 2024? Check out the full list of fall festivals here and keep tabs on our growing event calendar for the latest and greatest.

Article originally appeared on www.FXVA.com, Fairfax County, Virginia’s official source of travel information and inspiration. #FXVA @VisitFairfax

Celebrate “Me Time” During the Romance Season in the Mid-Atlantic

Valentine’s Day is around the corner, and it’s time to celebrate love in all its forms – including self-care! The Mid-Atlantic region has a multitude of ways for single individuals to cherish the joys of independence during this romantic time of year. From wellness retreats to solo dining experiences to outdoor adventures, there is no shortage of ways to grab some quality “me time.”

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

Kent (DE)

Wind down and connect with yourself and nature at Killens Pond State Park! Open year-round from 8 a.m. to sunset, you can hike the 2.6-mile trail that loops around the beautiful 66-acre pond for a fun solo experience, or you can sign up for a hike with the naturalists from Killens! Delaware’s Quaint Villages, VisitDelawareVillages.com, Catherine Jenkins, [email protected]

Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau

Embark on the perfect solo date and self-care experience at Currie Hair, Skin, and Nails in Wilmington. The DuPont Building and Riverfront locations offer beauty services, from transformative hair treatments to rejuvenating skin and nail services to spa treatments with luxurious, expert care. Currie is the opportunity to explore your wellness journey. Greater Wilmington Convention and Visitors Bureau, VisitWilmingtonDE.com, Courtney Haywood, [email protected]

MARYLAND

Calvert

Whether you crave an ice cream sundae with all of the fixings from Mrs. Moo’s Corner in Prince Frederick or a scrumptious freshly baked cupcake from The Bakist in North Beach, be sure to treat yourself with a stop along the Calvert County Sweet Treat Trail. Calvert County Department of Economic Development, VisitCalvert.com, Hilary Dailey, [email protected]

Charles

Pamper yourself this Valentine’s Day by visiting the Town of La Plata. La Plata’s walkable downtown area provides both massage and retail therapy with multiple boutiques and massage studios. If you get hungry, grab a bite to eat and something sweet from one of the local eateries along Charles Street. Charles County Government, Department of Recreation, Parks, & Tourism, ExploreCharlesCounty.com, Brittney Gray, [email protected]

Hagerstown & Washington

Craving some quality me time? Visit some incredible artisan studios along our Pottery Trail, pick up a Nora Roberts book at her bookstore, Turn the Page in Boonsboro, and be sure to catch the “Picasso on Paper” exhibit at the Washington County Museum of Fine Arts in Hagerstown. Spend the night at one of our B&Bs! Visit Hagerstown, VisitHagerstown.com, Betsy DeVore, [email protected]

Harford

Relax your mind and body in the tranquil atmosphere of Serenity Salt Spa in Forest Hill, escape the noise by sitting atop the King & Queen Seats at Rocks State Park, and indulge in retail therapy with our “For The Love of Shopping” campaign in early February. Visit Harford, VisitHarford.com, Tyler Zeisloft, [email protected]

Kent (MD)

Enjoy a romantic stay in one of Kent County’s many B&Bs, shop for artisan chocolates for your sweetie at Bespoke Chocolate, and indulge in an elegant dinner at The Watershed. Kent County is the perfect destination to reconnect and unwind. Kent County Tourism, MD, KentCounty.com/Visitors, Shalyn Boulden, [email protected]

Talbot

Talbot County welcomes solo travelers with independent bookstores. Discover an eclectic read to enjoy at some of the small cafés found throughout the county’s characterful towns and villages. Adventurers appreciate the Academy Art Museum’s incisive exhibitions, reach biking bliss riding the Chesapeake Country scenic byway, and love shopping the Eastern Shore’s most unique boutiques. Talbot County Office of Economic Development and Tourism, TourTalbot.org, Cassandra Vanhooser, [email protected]

PENNSYLVANIA

Juniata River Valley

Get centered in the relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere at Shade Mountain Naturals Retreat. Built with you in mind, the retreat caters to the individual by allowing you to choose the ingredients for your spa treatment. Continue the experience by walking next door for some retail therapy and take home some of their all-natural, handmade skincare products. Juniata River Valley Visitors Bureau, JRVVisitors.com, Buffie Boyer, [email protected]

Laurel Highlands

A trip to Oak Lodge in the rolling hills of the Laurel Highlands is always a treat. Escape to a private cabin that is as luxurious as it is rustic. Relax with a hot stone massage at Whispering Woods Spa and clear your mind with a private mountainside yoga session. GO Laurel Highlands, GOLaurelHighlands.com, Eric Knopsnyder, [email protected]

Raystown Region

Plan a relaxing getaway in the Raystown Lake Region to celebrate you. Roots & Branches Massage is located within a bed and breakfast. Book a room, avoid cooking, and make sure to reserve an unforgettable massage experience before concluding your trip.  A moment away, the perfect way to celebrate you. Huntingdon County Visitors Bureau, Raystown.org, Lissy Kinder, [email protected]

Pennsylvania (Commonwealth of)

Namaste, Happy Travelers. From fresh beautiful spas like the one at the Lodge at Glendorn in Bradford to spiritual retreats such as the Himalayan Institute in Honesdale, Pennsylvania’s wellness destinations will provide much-needed rest and quality “me time” during this romantic time of year. Pennsylvania Tourism Office, visitPA, VisitPA.com/Article/Rest-and-Recharge-Pennsylvanias-Wellness-Retreats, Michael Chapaloney, [email protected]

VIRGINIA

Giles

Mountaintop peaks and cozy retreats just for you in Virginia’s Mountain Playground. Take in the lovely sights and sounds on a solo trek to Bald Knob or the Cascades in Giles. Then rest and relax in a cozy waterfront cabin along the New River close to boutique shopping and dining. Giles County, VA Tourism, VirginiasMtnPlayground.com, Cora Gnegy, [email protected]

Harrisonburg

Experience incredible trails in and around Harrisonburg, Virginia, with our new Trail Guide (online and in print). The guide highlights 15 area trails and their most popular features such as scenic overlooks or waterfalls. Each description includes distance, level of difficulty, and much more. Harrisonburg Tourism & Visitors Services, VisitHarrisonburgva.com/Area-trails/, Jennifer Bell, [email protected]

Loudoun

Nestled in lush rolling hills just outside historic Middleburg, The Goodstone Inn is a luxury country retreat with an exquisite fine-dining restaurant, 18 intimate rooms done in classical European style, a cozy communal firepit, a heated saltwater pool, and miles of hiking trails. It’s also in the heart of Loudoun’s famed wine country, with 50 vineyards to explore. Visit Loudoun, visitloudoun.org, Jennifer Sigal, [email protected]

Shenandoah

Enjoy some me time in the Shenandoah Valley. Clear your mind, take in breathtaking views, book a cozy cabin, dig into delicious local cuisine, and enjoy award-winning wines. Cruise the countryside, book a trail ride on horseback, take a mural tour, and shop local art and unique gifts just for you. Visit Shenandoah County, VisitShenandoahCounty.com, Brenda Black, [email protected]

Staunton

Treat your body as a sacred sanctuary and experience pure relaxation. Indulge in self-care and unwind at the serene spa located within The Blackburn Inn in Staunton. Nestled within the property’s grounds, a comprehensive array of services awaits, providing a chance to unwind, revitalize, and reconnect with your inner tranquility. Staunton, VA, VisitStaunton.com, Jessica Williams, [email protected]

Virginia’s Blue Ridge

Enjoy date night for one in Roanoke’s Historic Grandin Village. Stop for a movie and a drink at the Grandin Theatre, a 1930s art deco theater restored in 2003. Walk on over to Jolly Grape for a wine tasting for one before enjoying local, authentic Indian cuisine at Taaza. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge, VisitVBR.com, Kathryn Lucas, [email protected]

WEST VIRGINIA

West Virginia (State of)

West Virginia’s charming mountain towns make for perfect solo-travel getaways. These towns are overflowing with friendly locals, unique shops and endless outdoor adventure. For an authentic bed & breakfast experience, stay at the Laurel River Club to enjoy comfortable accommodations, farm activities like making jelly and salves, and peaceful views. West Virginia Department of Tourism, WVTourism.com, Lindsey R. Funk, [email protected]

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

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

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

It’s Time to Tap In to Delaware’s Craft Beverage Scene

Delaware On Tap offers just that. This digital passport can guide you through visits to 35 nationally recognized breweries and hidden gems distilling unique spirits and brewing sweet meads. Taste delicious flavors, explore new places and make lasting memories while you check in to participating locations and collect points to earn prizes!


By signing up online, you can take advantage of the mobile Delaware On Tap benefits. Once signed up, check in to participating craft beverage locations you visit, and Delaware On Tap will keep track of which locations you’ve checked in to in your travels. Earn points for each location you visit and turn in your points for prizes.

Each check in earns you 100 points. For 500 points, or 5 check ins, you can earn a themed deck of cards. If you earn 1,000 points, or 10 check ins, you will receive a cute pom beanie. Finally, for 2,000 points, or 20 check ins, you will win a handy Delaware On Tap backpack cooler! Not only can you use the trail to earn points and win prizes, but you can discover exciting opportunities that you might not experience otherwise.


The Delaware On Tap Trail is just one of Visit Delaware’s three Trails of Discovery, and each trail offers tourists a unique way to see the state. The Delaware History Trail leads visitors through echoes of Delaware’s rich past, including regal homes, historic monuments, museums and more hidden gems. The Delaware Discoveries Trail highlights arts and culture in Delaware. You can use the trail to explore 13 Insta-worthy interactive murals throughout the state.

To learn more about Delaware’s Trails of Discovery, visit https://www.visitdelaware.com/things-to-do/trailsofdiscovery.

Great Ways to Get Out on the Water in Erie, PA

The sparkling waters of Lake Erie and Presque Isle Bay provide the perfect setting for you to get out and enjoy being on the water. Leave the confines of land behind and bask in the sheer joy of spending time on the water. Recently, Lake Erie earned top honors in three USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards: “Best Lake” (#1), “Best Lake for Water Sports (#1), and “Best Lake for Swimming” (#3).  From thrilling jet ski rides to leisurely sunset sails, there is something for every water enthusiast to enjoy in the Erie region.

Pontoon Lagoon Tours at Presque Isle State ParkFree, one-hour interpretive pontoon boat rides through Misery Bay and Presque Isle’s lagoons are available on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from May 26 to September 10 at 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., and 12:30 p.m. It’s a great way to get up close to the lagoon’s inhabitants and plant species such as turtles, water lilies, waterfowl, and beavers. Along the way, a park naturalist provides fun facts about the wetland habitat. Rides are first come first served. In-person sign-ups begin 15 minutes before the start time at the pontoon boat station. Each ride can seat up to 16 people.

Watercraft Rentals
No need to pack and haul your own gear! There are several locations in Erie County where you can rent various watercraft.

  • Port Erie Sports, located on the city side of Presque Isle Bay, offers a selection of motorized boats, pontoons, jet skis, stand-up paddleboards, and kayaks. Note that Jet skis are first come, first served.
  • Hidden Harbor Water Rentals,off lower East State Street in Erie’s Bayfront District features 22’ or 24’ pontoon boats for rent with optional one and two-person towable water tube add-ons.
  • Presque Isle Canoe & Boat Liveryat Presque Isle State Park just past Perry Monument, has an extensive list of rentals including canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, row boats, motorized boats, pontoons, and a 14’ Helm fishing boat.
  • Edinboro Lake Resort offers 20’ or 24’ pontoon boats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the tranquil waters of Edinboro Lake. New to Edinboro Lake is the addition of a 24/7, eight-kayak library on Lakeside Drive. Simply scan the Fun app to your smartphone, pay, and check out a kayak. Rates are hourly and include life vests and paddles.

Lettie G. Howard Tall Ship Sails   

Sail the waters of Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie aboard the historic Lettie G. Howard tall ship for an unforgettable, step-back-in-time experience. The Lettie is a wooden Fredonia schooner built in 1893 and is the sole surviving example of a George Banks fishing schooner, a vessel that was designed to take dories and fishermen out to Georges Bank, a large elevated area of the sea floor near Cape Cod, Massachusetts. During your sail, you’ll meet the crew, learn a little about the Lettie’s history, and even help the crew set some of the larger sails. Day and sunset sail dates and times vary throughout the summer months. Please check the website for availability. Tours depart from the foot of State Street.

The Lady Kate Narrated Tours

Docked at Perry Monument inside Presque Isle State Park, the Lady Kate embarks on regular sightseeing and sunset cruises from May 18 to September 28. The tour is a 90-minute fully narrated educational excursion around Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie (weather permitting), highlighting Erie’s rich maritime history and points of interest including the Battle of Lake Erie and the War of 1812, the Gull Point ecosystem, Erie’s lighthouses, and the Bayfront District.

Charter Fishing

Erie’s fishing charters provide great opportunities to not only see the city and Presque Isle from the water but also to experience some of the best fishing in Pennsylvania. Both Tight Lines Sport Fishing and GypsyLyn Fishing Charters offer fishing charter trips for perch, walleye, trout, and steelhead.  They can accommodate various-sized groups as well as fishing gear, bait, and coolers. Pennsylvania fishing licenses with a Lake Erie stamp are required. To learn more, click here. Whether you catch many fish or none at all, it’s still a fun venture on Lake Erie!

Scallywags Pirate Adventures

Spending time aboard the Scallywags pirate ship promises a swashbuckling good time! Guests can choose between a family-friendly adventure or an adults-only wobbly pirate voyage! The Pirate Adventure family fun cruise is a 90-minute fully scripted interactive show complete with ship-to-ship water cannon battles, pirate tattoos, and a share of the treasure (if you and the crew can find it!).  The Wobbly Pirate happy hour cruise is a one-of-a-kind happy hour experience filled with drinks, DJ music, dancing, and pirate shenanigans. Tours run from May 18 to September 28 and depart from the foot of State Street near the Sheraton Hotel parking garage.

Your Sailing Adventure – The Sotto Voce

Witnessing Erie’s world-class sunsets from the deck of the luxurious 33’ sailboat, the Sotto Voce (loosely translated as “quiet voice”), is truly a magical experience. This 33’ Beneteau yacht is designed for optimal sailing comfort, promising a serene sail on Presque Isle Bay and Lake Erie. In addition to sunset cruises, the Sotto Voce offers daytime cruises, Sommelier and Sail, Cigar and Sunsets, and Sunrise/Sound Bath trips, romance and relaxation packages. Sailing lessons are also available. Find the Sotto Voce moored at Wolverine Marina on lower State Street. Sails take place from Memorial Day Weekend to September 30.

The Victorian Princess
Taking a cruise aboard the Victorian Princess three-level paddlewheel boat is a seamless blend of timeless charm and modern style. The gentle rhythm of the paddlewheel sets a soothing scene as you glide effortlessly across Presque Isle Bay. The Victorian Princess features sunset and moonlight cruises, sightseeing tours, lunch and early bird dinners, themed outings, and Sunday brunch throughout its sailing season. Tours run from May 19 to October 27 and depart from the foot of State Street.

Elevated Relaxation: Unique Spa Experiences in Erie, PA

Maintaining optimal health and wellness is an essential pursuit that encompasses physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Nurturing a well-balanced lifestyle, which includes practices like massage therapy, becomes integral to a holistic approach, and can empower individuals to live fulfilling lives and unlock their full potential. In the Erie region, massage therapy centers and spas not only provide standard services, they also offer an array of unique experiences that are worth exploring.

A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy – The Art of Ashiatsu
Typically, a massage is given by a therapist who rubs all of your aches and stress away with their skillful hands. But what if they are massaging you with their feet? That’s when it becomes the practice of the ancient art of Ashiatsu, a unique and transformative foot-centric spa experience. A Compassionate Hart Massage Therapy is the only place in the Erie region that offers this unique technique. Two of their licensed staff are Ashiatsu-certified to walk all over you, quite literally.

Derived from the Japanese words “ashi” (foot) and “atsu” (pressure), Ashiatsu involves skilled therapists who use their bare feet to deliver a massage that goes beyond the conventional. This innovative technique not only offers deep relaxation but also taps into the body’s energy pathways, promoting balance and holistic well-being.

The Ashiatsu room at A Compassionate Hart is an intimate space filled with soothing music and warm colors. The plush, comfortable massage table has more than enough space to accommodate you and your therapist so they can maneuver above and around you safely. Parallel bars are anchored on the ceiling above the table to aid the therapist with balance and support.

Once you’re lying down and covered with a sheet, the therapist expertly hops up and begins delivering deep, broad, rhythmic pressure utilizing a combination of their feet and body weight. Working with gravity instead of against it, they are able to provide an effective therapeutic massage beginning with your neck and shoulders and ending at your legs and feet. At A Compassionate Hart, the Ashiatsu massages are available for one hour ($100) or 75 minutes ($115). The massage time is split between being on your back and your stomach. With closed eyes, it’s almost impossible to tell whether you’re being massaged by feet or hands.

While she doesn’t have a regular Ashiatsu client base, Heather Hart, owner of A Compassionate Hart, believes that this unique spa service is beginning to catch on. “The mechanics of our therapists being able to just stand and put their whole body weight on you gets that depth of pressure that’s needed to really iron any knots out. If someone is having an issue where maybe their regular therapist just isn’t getting deep enough for them, then this is the type of technique to sign up for.”

Other spa options at A Compassionate Hart include traditional massage therapy, Reiki energy healing, crystal and light healing, and even canine massage. Book your appointment here.

Monacella Massage & Kinesiology  – Thai Massage
Thai massage, also known as “Nuad Thai” or “Thai yoga massage,” is a traditional healing practice that combines acupressure, yoga, and passive stretching to restore the body’s balance. The therapist uses hands, thumbs, elbows, knees, and feet to apply rhythmic pressure and stretches to promote flexibility, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension. Thai massage induces deep relaxation and mindfulness, reducing stress and anxiety. Monacella offers 30, 60, and 90-minute Thai massage sessions. Book your appointment here.

Bella Salon and Day Spa – Cupping
The suction and negative pressure provided by cupping can loosen muscles, encourage blood flow, and calm the nervous system. Cupping is used to relieve back and neck pains, stiff muscles, anxiety, fatigue, migraines, and rheumatism and can help manage pain and circulation. Learn more about cupping and book your appointment.

The Serenity Spa at Peek’n Peak – Himalayan Salt Stone Massage

Himalayan Salt Stones allow for a detoxifying, naturally exfoliating massage while reducing inflammation, and relieving pain and joint discomfort. The Himalayan Salt Stones are heated and contain 84 naturally occurring minerals to increase a sense of peace and deep relaxation. Book your 50-minute salt stone massage here