Explore USA Magazine FALL 2025 SPECIAL HOLIDAY EDITION

Masthead

(Staff List)

COMPANY

ExploreUSAMagazine

CEO

RobertLynn

Editor-in-Chief

SamanthaBellamy

SalesDirector

AshleySmith

AccountManagers

JordanFields,CaseyMonroe,TaylorBrooks,DevinCarter

ContributingWriters

RileyGreen,MorganLake,AveryRivers

VISIT USHERE

Welcome Letter

�� WelcometoExploreUSAMagazine!

DearReader,

We’re delighted to welcome you to the Fall 2025 Issue of Explore USA Magazine your seasonalguidetodiscoveringtheheartandsoulofAmerica.Astheairturnscrisp andthecolorsblazeacrossthecountryside,thiseditioncelebratestheverybestof autumnintheUSA—fromharvestfestivalsandcozysmalltownstoscenicbyways paintedingoldandcrimson.

Inside,you’llfindstoriesthatinviteyoutoslowdown,exploredeeply,andembrace thewonderoftheseason.Our Fall2025lineupfeaturesinspiringhighlights like “Autumn’s Front Porch: Small Towns That Glow,” “Foliage in Fall,” “Holiday Hot Spots,” and“MidwestMadness.”Eachpiececapturesthespiritofexploration—blending comfort,adventure,andtherealcharacterofAmerica’shiddengems.

Thisseason,we’reespecially proudtoshowcase destinationsthatperfectly embody authentic American charm places like Eufaula, Alabama; Liberal, Kansas; Jamestown, NorthDakota;Glenwood,Minnesota;andTheDalles,Oregon.

AtExplore USAMagazine, webelieve travelisn’t justabout miles— it’sabout connection: the warmth of a café, the laughter of a parade, or the silence of a mountain overlook. That’s why we highlight destinations that celebrate community, authenticity, andcharacter.

Sograbyourfavoritefalldrink,settlein,andletthesepagestakeyouonajourney throughAmerica’smostinspiringautumnescapes.

Withgratitude, TheExploreUSAMagazineTeam

�� sales@exploreusamagazine.com

�� www.ExploreUSAMagazine.com

�� 727-272-4390

TableofContents

HistoricCharm,NaturalBeauty, HolidayMagic

Autumn’sFrontPorch

Marietta,Ohio’sSeasonalEmbrace

TableofContents

Page-56

SilentSlayerGhostTours

Page-60

FoliageInFall

Page-70 HauntedHighways

Page-74

Grapevine,Texas

Page-80 Remax

Glenwood,Minnesota

Glenwoodisacharming smallcitynestledinWest CentralMinnesotaand servesasthecountyseat ofPopeCounty.

CozyCabins

WhereAutumn’sGlow MeetsGorgeTradition

SafetyTips

TravelSmart: Safety Tipsfor Every Adventure

Staying safe on the road, wherever the journey takesyou.Whetheryou’resettingoffonaweekend getaway or a cross-country adventure, travel is about discovery, connection, and memory-making. But just asimportantaschoosingtheperfectdestinationis makingsureyoustaysafewhileyouexplore.With alittlepreparationandawareness,youcanprotect yourself,yourlovedones,andyourpeaceofmind.

Here are some tried-and-true safety tips every travelershouldkeepclose.

Top Travel Safety Tips

KeepCopiesofImportant Documents

Make digital and paper copies of your passport, driver’slicense,anditinerary.Storedigitalversions securelyinyouremailorcloudstorage.

Letatrustedfriendorfamilymemberknowwhere you’llbeandwhenyouplantoreturn.It’sasimple step that ensures someone always knows your whereabouts.

Stay Aware of YourSurroundings

Whensightseeing, avoiddistractions likewearing both earbuds or staring at your phone for long periods.Awareness helpsdeter pickpockets and keepsyousafeinunfamiliarplaces.

Use Reliable Transportation

Bookridesthroughtrustedservices,checklicense platescarefully,andavoidunmarkedor unofficial vehicles.Ifrentingacar,giveitaquicksafetycheck beforehittingtheroad.

BlendIn WhereYou Can

Avoiddrawingunnecessaryattentiontoyourselfby leaving flashy jewelry or expensive electronics tucked away.Dresscomfortablyandrespectfullyaccording tolocalcustoms.

Secure YourBelongings

Useacross-bodybagormoneybeltforessentials, andkeephotelroomssafewithportabledoorlocks orsafeswhenavailable.

StayConnected

Carryaportablechargertokeepyourphonealive. Appswithofflinemapsandtranslationtoolscanbe lifesaversinspotswithpoorreception.

WatchYour Health

Stayhydrated,packabasicfirst-aid kit,andbring anyprescriptionmedicationsinoriginalcontainers. If heading abroad, check travel advisories and vaccinationrequirements.

Ifasituationfeelsoff,itprobablyis.Neverbe afraidtowalkaway,changeplans,orsayno.

Know Local EmergencyNumbers

911isstandard intheU.S., butabroad,numbers vary. Look them up before you arrive and keep them writtendownaswellasstoredinyourphone.

Extra Layerof Peace ofMind

Smarttravelisn’taboutbeingfearful —it’sabout beingprepared.Bypracticingsimplesafetyhabits, you’ll spend less time worrying and more time soakingintheviews,tastes,and experiencesthat makeatripmemorable.Whetheryou’reboardinga flight,cruisingdownascenicbyway, orwanderinga new downtown, these safety practices are your travel toolkitforeveryadventure.

MidwestMadness

From the rolling plainstothe lakesidetowns, the Midwest is brimming with hidden gems andunforgettable adventures.This featu r edives into the heart of America’s heartland, wherecharming small towns meet big se a son al celeb r ations, outdoorescapes,and the warm hospitality the region is famous for. Whether it’s winterfestivals, cozy main streets, orunexpected cultu r a lfinds, “MidwestMadness” showcaseswhythis region belongs at the top of every traveler’slist.

Whether you stay for the day or for the weekend, Jamestownofferssomething simple and lasting. It’s a place where families come together, storiesbegin,andtraditions takeroot.

Jamestown, NorthDakota

Thebesttripsbecomemorethanmemories.Theybecome traditions. A photo you take every year. A quiet fishing spot that feelslikeyours.Aplacethatfeelsfamiliar,eventhefirsttime you visit. That’s the kind of experience you’ll find in Jamestown, NorthDakota.

Startwithaselfie attheWorld’sLargest Buffalo.This26-foottall concrete monument has greeted travelers since 1959 and stilldrawssmilestoday.Nearby,theNorthAmericanBison DiscoveryCenterbringsyoufacetofacewithlivebisonand shares the story of these animals and their place on the prairie.

Families love the calm waters and wide shores of the JamestownReservoir.Spendtheafternoonfishing,paddling, orrelaxingnear thewater.Stroll throughFrontierVillage and explore a collection of historic buildings, local art, and pioneerera storefronts. Visit the 1883 Historic Stutsman County Courthouse,theoldestcourthousestillstandinginthestate, andwalkthroughthehistoryofDakotaTerritory.

Everyseason bringssomething new.Summer eventslike BuffaloDays, theStutsmanCountyFair,andtheFortSewardWagonTrainwelcome visitorswithfood,fun,andsmall-towncharm.Localshops,parks,and trailsgiveyoumoretoexploreeverytimeyoureturn.

Planyour visitat

Liberal, Kansas

In far Southwest Kansas, where the horizonstretcheswideandskies seemendless, sitsa community built on an unusual promise: generosity.Longbeforeit wasa town,Liberal wassimply known as“the placewith theliberal well.”

Thestorygoes thatpioneerS.S. Rogers offered travelers free water fromhiswell,unlikeneighboring rancherswho chargedfor every bucket.Wearypioneerscrossing the prairie began to say, “That’s the liberal well,” and in time, the phrase

wasshortenedto justLiberal.Out ofthisspiritofopenness,atown was born. More than a century later,thatwelcomingattitudestill definesthecity.

Today, Liberal extends its hospitality through a blend of history, culture, and unique attractions that capture the imagination of visitors from across thecountry.

Of course, no visit to Liberal would be complete without a journey

Oneof thecity’s proudesttreasures isthe Coronado Museum, named for Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado, who led his expedition through this very region in 1541. A remarkable artifact,aSpanishhorsebitbelievedtohavebeen left behind by Coronado’s men is among the museum’s prized exhibits. An eight-foot bronze statueofthe conquistadorgreetsvisitors turning offPancakeBoulevard.Inside,displaysrangefrom Native American heritage to frontier life in the Kansas Territory,weavingtogethercenturiesofstories.

Forthosewhopreferwingsover wheels, the Mid-America Air Museum is a marvel. Housing morethan 100aircraft, itis the largestgeneralaviationmuseum inKansas. Thecollection began in 1986 but grew exponentially whenretiredAirForceLieutenant Colonel Tom A. Thomas Jr. donated dozens of planes in the late 1990s. Walking among the aircraft,

visitors encounter everything from experimentaldesignsto aplane like the smallest plane ever used as Air Force One by President Dwight D.Eisenhower.Theexperienceis a reminder of how innovation and ambitionhave alwayspropelled Americaforward.

The arts thrive at Baker Arts Center,wherelocal,regional,and

national artists showcase their work.Workshops, musicevenings andcommunityeventsmakeita livelygatheringplaceyear-round. Visitors are invited to come engage in creative play and create in multiplemediums.

to Oz. The town is the “official hometown”ofDorothyGale,and atDorothy’sHouseandtheLand ofOz, theclassic filmcomes to life. Tours begin in a restored 1907 farmhouse, where guides sometimes dressed as Dorothy leadguests throughrooms that feelliketheybelongonaKansas farm. Then it’s on to a 5,000-squarefootLandofOzexperience,filled with movie memorabilia, including a model replica of Dorothy’s house usedinthetornadosceneofthe 1939production.

Perhaps the most whimsical tradition is International Pancake Day, held annually on Shrove Tuesday. The celebration begins with a community pancake breakfast and builds toward the highlight event: a transatlantic racebetweenLiberalandOlney,England.Womeninbothtownsdash downtheirstreets,holdingpancakesinskilletsastheygo.Resultsare sharedlive,andtheinternationalchampioniscrowned.Thedayalso includesaparade,children’sracesandaShrivingService. Beyondtheheadline attractions,the townofferssimple pleasures golfcourses,a familywaterpark, asix-screenmovie theater,andeven theworld’slargestbookonthefrontofMemorialLibrary.Nearby,the Arkalonwildlifearea providestrails,camping, fishing,andsome ofthe region’sbestbirdwatching.

Fromitsbeginningsasahavenofkindnessontheprairietoitsrole todayasahubofhistoryandhospitality,Liberalisacommunitythat welcomesvisitorswithopenarms.

Dubuque,Iowa

WhereHistoryMeetstheMightyMississippi

The Riverat ItsHeart

The Mississippi has shaped every chapter of Dubuque’sstory. Inthe 1800s,it wasthe city’s highwayforcommerce,connectinglocallumber millsandfactoriestothewiderworld.Today,the riverfront serves a different role: a gathering place for relaxation and inspiration. Families stroll along landscaped promenades, anglers cast lines in quiet backwaters, and couples find their favorite spots to watch sunsets turn the water a molten orange. The sheerscaleoftheriver,movingwithbothpower andcalm,makesit impossibletoignore.It isboth backdropandanchorforlifehere.

A City WritteninBrick and Stone

Perched on the limestone bluffs of the Mississippi River, Dubuqueis acity thatcaptures theessenceoftheMidwestwhile offering an unexpected blend ofheritage, naturalbeauty, and small-city warmth. As one of theoldest communitieswest of the river, it carries the kind of character that only comes with timestreets lined with 19thcentury architecture, riverfront paths that invite exploration, and neighborhoods that feel bothfamiliaranddistinctive.For travelers seeking authenticity, Dubuqueisa reminderthatsome of the best stories come from citiesthatdon’talwaysshoutthe loudest.

Dubuque’sdowntownisashowcaseofarchitecturalresilience.Red-brickwarehousesthatoncestored goodshavebeenrepurposedintoloftapartments,artstudios,andcafés.Churchsteeplespunctuatethe skyline,whileVictorianmansionsclingtohillsidesasremindersofthecity’sindustrialpast.Evenmodest neighborhoods tell stories: simple cottages, once homes to river workers, now sit alongside restored homes whosedetailsgingerbreadtrim,ornatewindowsspeaktoprosperityfromanotherera.Unlikeplacesthat erasetheirpast,Dubuqueembracesit.Awalkthroughitsstreetsfeelslikeleafingthroughalivinghistory book.

Natural Landscapes Beyond Expectation

WhenmanypeoplepictureIowa,theyimaginewide plains. Dubuque challenges that assumption with its geographyofrollinghillsandwoodedbluffs.From highoverlooks,visitorscangazeintothreestatesat onceIowa,Wisconsin,andIllinoiswherefarmland meets forest in a patchwork of color. Outdoor enthusiastsfindtrailswindingthroughwoodlands that change with the seasons: lush green in summer, fierycrimsoninautumn,andsnow-dustedserenity inwinter.TheMississippiitselfinvitesboatingand kayaking, while nearby parks provide space for birdwatching,hiking,andquietpicnics.

Culture Rooted inCommunity

Dubuque’s greatest strength may be its people. Festivalscelebrateeverything frommusicand artto foodtraditionshandeddownthroughgenerations. Family-owned shops and restaurants anchor the downtown, offering everything from hearty Midwestern fare to creative modern dining. Farmers’ marketsbuzzwith energyonsummer weekends, while winter events bring residents together in cozy,welcomingspaces.Thisisacitythatdoesn’t tryto reinventitself withflash; instead,it thrives on continuity and genuine pride. Visitors often remarkon howquickly theyfeel included,as though thecommunityisextendingan openinvitationto participateinitsstory.

A City of Arts andInnovation

For a city of its size, Dubuque offers a surprising variety of cultural outlets. Art galleries showcase local and regional talent, while theaterspresenteverythingfrom classic plays to contemporary performances. Murals brighten

once-quietcornersofdowntown, turning walls into storytelling canvases.Even thereimagining of oldindustrialspacesintocultural hubsspeakstothecity’screative spirit.It’s aplace wherehistory isn’tjust preservedin museums

it’s actively repurposed into something fresh. That balance between tradition and reinvention is one of Dubuque’s most appealing traits.

Seasons of Experience

Each season brings its own personality.Springismarked by blossomsalongthehillsidesand the return of river activity. Summer brings outdoor concerts, street fairs, and long evenings when

the sunset lingers late into the night.Autumnmay bethemost dramatic,asthebluffsblazewith red and gold, drawing visitors who comeforfoliagedrivesandcrisp outdoorhikes.Wintertransforms

the city into something quieter yet equally inviting snow along the rooftops, warm gatherings indoors,andscenicviews ofthe Mississippi iced over in silver stillness.

A SpiritThatWelcomes

Atitscore,Dubuque’scharmliesinthewayitbalancespast andpresent.Historicbuildingsandriverfrontrootsground itfirmly,but forward-lookingprojectsrevitalizeddistricts, cultural events, and youthful energy from area collegesensure it never feels stagnant. The city honors where it has been while embracing where it is going. This spirit of balance is what makes Dubuquememorable:itisn’ttryingtocompetewithbigger Midwesternmetros,nordoesitpretendtobesomethingit’s not.Instead,itleansintoitsstrengthsauthenticity,heritage, andconnection.

Food and Flavor

No portrait of Dubuque would be complete without mentioning its culinary character. Here, dining is both hearty andcreative. Traditionalsupper clubs andtavernsoffercomfortfoodsrooted in Midwest sensibilities, while newer restaurantsbring inventivetwists that surprisethepalate.Localbreweriesand coffeeshopscreategatheringspotsthat buzz with conversation. Farmers’ markets showcasethe bountyof theregion, from freshproducetoartisanalbakedgoods. The dining scene is less about trends and moreaboutauthenticityareflectionof thecityitself.

WhyDubuque Matters

Inatravel worldfilledwith noiseandspectacle, Dubuque offerssomethingrare:sincerity.It’sacitythatdoesn’tneed slogans to impress. Instead, it shines as a place that knows who itisandwelcomesotherstodiscoveritontheirownterms. Fortravelersseekingadestinationthatfeelsbothgrounded andinspiring,Dubuquedelivers.Itsriverfrontvistas,historic streets,andwarmcommunityspiritarenotjustreasonsto visittheyarereasonstoremember.

NiabiZoo

A Midwest Treasure Reborn

Gateway totheMidwest Wild

InthequietcommunityofCoalValley, Illinois,azoositsnestledin287 acres of preserved woodland. Niabi Zoo is not the biggest in the country, nor is it the oldest. But to the Midwest, it is something more precious: a place where conservation comes to life, where families discover wonder together, and where resilience is written into the very story of the land.

Sidebar:Midwest Travel Distances

Chicago–165miles(~3hrs)

St.Louis–240miles(~4hrs)

DesMoines–170miles(~3hrs)

Madison–150miles(~3hrs)

Thezooisremarkablyaccessible. Families from across the heartland make the trip: just 165 miles (three hours) from Chicago, 240 miles (fourhours) fromSt. Louis,170 miles (under three hours) from DesMoines,andabout150miles (under three hours) from Madison, Wisconsin. The central location means Niabi has become a natural meeting point for the region, aneasy weekendroad tripthat connectsmajorcitiestonature’s doorstep.

Step inside and you’ll find 40 acresofexhibitsalivewithmore than 600 animals from nearly 200 species. Towering giraffes, endangered rhinos, playful primates, and delicate amphibians allsharespacehere.Butbeyond the collection of species lies a mission that resonates deeply: “Workingtodaytoassureabetter tomorrowforalllivingthings.”

Thatphilosophyisn’tatagline.It’s adailypromisetotheanimals,to the visitors, and to the community thatcallsNiabiitsown.

History& Identity

Niabi Zoo’s roots reach back to 1959,whenaprivate menagerie known as McLain’s Wild Animal Farmentertainedcuriousvisitors. Just four years later, in 1963, philanthropist Patti Wiman purchasedthefarmanddonated itto theRock IslandCounty Forest Preserve District. That generous act transformed a roadside attraction intoacivictreasure:azooowned bythepeople,runforthepeople, anddevotedtoconservation.

Throughthe decades,Niabi has grown in sophistication. What beganasa modestcollectionof animalshasbecomearespected institution with global connections. Today, Niabi participates in internationalbreedingprograms, contributes to species survival databases, and hosts experts whosharetheir knowledgewith Midwestaudiences.

Still, for all its reach, Niabi remains

The name itself carries deep meaning.“Niabi,”takenfromthe Osagelanguage, means“the fawn sparedbythehunter.”Itreflects a timeless ethic of compassion andstewardship,areminderthat humanity’sgreateststrengthlies notin domination,but inrestraint andcare.

grounded in community. It is a placewheregrandparents recall childhood visits, where parents bringchildren fortheir firstzoo day, and where traditions are passed on in the laughter of families riding the Endangered SpeciesCarousel.

Socialmedia channels

Sidebar:Quick Facts

40acresofexhibitswithina287acrepreserve 600+animalsrepresentingnearly 200species

Seasonalschedule:April–October

Owned and managed by Rock Island County Forest Preserve District

“Midwestwintersare tough—butNiabiZoo istougher.”

“Afterthestormand therebuild,NiabiZoo isroaringback.”

Storms,Struggles& Renewal

The Midwest is no stranger to weather’s fury, and Niabi Zoo knows that reality firsthand. In January 2024, nearly a week of heavysnowfellacrosstheQuad Citiesregion.Theweightofmore thantwofeetof snowcollapsed structures, damaging the carousel canopy, parts of the aviary, and the outdoorcathouse.

It was a moment of crisis. The leopardsamong thezoo’s most charismatic residents were temporarily relocatedtopartner

facilitiesfortheirsafety.Exhibits wereclosed, constructioncrews brought in, and the community helditsbreath.

Butresilience isas mucha part of Niabi’s DNA as conservation. Within months, work began on rebuilding the Big Cat Habitat.

By summer 2025, the project was complete. The new habitat offered expanded space, improved enrichment opportunities, and modernizedguestviewingareas. Snow leopards, amur leopards,

Animals, Habitats& SafeHaven Stories

For many visitors, the magic of Niabi lies in its balance ofscale. Itis largeenough tohold awe-inspiring animals, yet small enough to explore without fatigue. Eachturn bringsnew discoveries:giraffes stretching their necks to nibble browse, colobus monkeys flashing through the primate exhibit, or white rhinos movingslowlywithprehistoricgrace.

Each of these rescues tells a story. Each animal embodiesthe missionthat thezoo championsdaily: responsibility,compassion,andabettertomorrow.

and an African leopard now roam environments designed to prioritize both welfare and visibility.

Thepricetag about$1.5million was steep. Yet the community rallied,supportingtheeffortwith donations and advocacy. What emergedwasmorethanrepaired buildings.Itwasarenewedsense of pride, a statement that Niabi Zoo wouldnotbebowedbyhardship.

Inside the Discovery Center, biodiversity shines. Childrenpresstheirfacestoglasswhereclownfish dartamongcoral.Reptiles shiftcolorandtexture underdimmedlights.Amphibiansfromacrossthe globe delicate frogs, mysterious axolotls share space with exotic insects and otters whose playful splashes bringlaughtertothehalls.

But Niabi’s story isn’t just about display. Increasingly, itisaboutsanctuary.Thezooprovidessafehomes foranimals seizedfrom theillegal wildlifetrade, surrenderedbyoverwhelmedowners,ordisplaced whenotherfacilitiesclosed.Inrecentyears,Niabi haswelcomed fennecfoxes withoversized ears, chatteringsquirrelmonkeys,vibrantmacaws,and tortoisesthatmayliveforacentury.

“Providingasafe,stable environmentfortheseanimals ispartofourresponsibilityas anaccreditedzoo.”

Sidebar: Family Favorites

NiabiZooExpressTrain

EndangeredSpeciesCarousel

FeedingStations(koiponds&domesticanimals) DiscoveryCenteraquatics&reptiles

“Ouranimalsreceive enrichmentmultipletimes adaytoencouragenatural behavior,choice,and mentalengagement.”

Niabibalances thiswith attractionsthat feeltimeless.TheZooExpressTrainwinds through leafy paths, giving families a restful vantage point. The Endangered Species Carousel spins to music, each carved animalareminderofthefragilespeciesit represents.Feedingstations—whetherit’s tossing pellets to koi or brushing goatsbring tactile connections that linger long after the visit.

Theeffectismore thanentertainment.Itis empathy.Byofferingfunthatconnectsto purpose,Niabiensuresguestswalkaway notjustsmiling,butcaring.

Enrichment&Guest Experience

Behind every habitat at Niabi is a team dedicated to enrichment. For snow leopards, it might mean hiddenscentstucked inside logs. For primates, puzzles that challenge problemsolvingskills.Forrhinos,new textures and browse that encourage natural feeding behaviors.Seasonalchanges addvarietypumpkinscarved forHalloween, iceblocks in the summer, or evergreen branchesinwinter.

keepers stimulate natural behaviors, turning passive viewing into active education. Parents and children leave with a new appreciation forthe workthat goesinto keeping animals mentally and physicallyengaged.

Guestsareofteninvitedinto this process. Enrichment demonstrations reveal how

“Thisfall,Niabi Zoocelebrates

theseasonwith eventsthat connectfamilies, conservation, andMidwest traditions.”

Education,Conservation&Midwest Traditions

Education has always been at theheartofNiabi’smission.Zoo Camps immerse children ages 4–13inanimalcare,games,and conservationlessons. Classesand behind-the-scenestoursprovide tailoredexperiencesforlearners of all ages. Zoo2U brings this mission offsite, traveling to schools, libraries,andseniorcenterswith animalsandeducatorsintow.

The impact stretches globally. Niabicontributesanimalrecords to international databases that

track fertility, genetics, and survival across species. These data pointsareessentialforbreeding programsthat maintainhealthy populations of endangered animals. By participating, Niabi ensures that its work in Coal Valley ripples outward, supporting conservation on a worldwide scale.

October weekends, transforms the grounds into a familyfriendly Halloween adventure with costumes, pumpkins, and festive enrichment. On October 30, Halloween Animal Enrichment Day treats animals to carved pumpkins andautumn-themedsurprises.

Fall offers some of the zoo’s mostmemorablemoments.Free admissiondays inSeptember and Octobermake accesseasier for families.“Booatthe Zoo,”heldon

It is here, in these seasonal traditions, that Niabi’s dual identity shines:as aglobal conservation partner, and as a Midwest hometowntreasure.

Closing

NiabiZooisnotjustanattraction.Itisastoryofresilience,compassion,andcommunity.ItistheMidwest atitsbest:practicalyetimaginative,small-townyetgloballyminded,rootedinthelandyetreachingfora bettertomorrow.

Here, in Coal Valley, children meet giraffes eye-to-eye, families ride carousels that remind them of endangered species, and conservationists see the fruits of their work in thriving habitats. Here, too, storms are endured, habitatsrebuilt,andmissionsrenewed.

At Niabi Zoo, the Midwest finds its voice in the language of wildlife. And for visitors, that voice is unforgettable.

ATasteoftheHolidays Bringing America’s Favorite Festive Flavors Home for 2025

When the last leaves fall and the air turns crisp and bright, kitchens across the United States come alive with thespiritoftheholidays.Fromcoasttocoast,ovenshum,stovetopsbubble,andfamiliesgatheraround countersdustedinflour,sharingrecipespasseddownliketreasuredheirlooms.Thesedishesaren’tjust foodthey’recomfort,nostalgia,andconnectionallserveduponaplate.

This holiday season, as travelers settle in from the year’s adventures, there’s no better way to celebrate than bybringingAmerica’scoziestculinarytraditionstoyourowntable.Whetheryouliveinamountaincabin, asmall-townfarmhouse,oracityapartment,thesetimelessflavorsinviteyoutoslowdown,gatherclose, andtasteabitofholidaymagicnoplaneticketrequired.

Picturea chillyDecember morningin theSmoky Mountains,where thefog rollsthrough thevalleys andthe smellof buttermilkbiscuits driftsfrom thekitchen. There,holiday breakfastsare asimple ritualdone right: awarmpanoffluffybiscuits,brushedwithmeltedbutterandtoppedwithapepperysausagegravythat feelslikeahugfromtheinsideout.It’sthekindofmealthattastesevenbetterwhensharedwithsleepy kids,oldfriends,orwhoeverwandersinfromthecold.

Farthernorth,NewEngland’scranberrybogsofferatangytwistthathasbrightenedholidaytablesfor generations.Freshcranberryrelishtart,sweet,andzestyisasmallbowlthatmakesabigstatement. Choppedcranberries, awhole orange,and justenough sugarcome togetherto cutthrough therichness of turkey,ham,orroastbeef,reminding usthatsometimesthesimplestrecipes carrytheloudestmemories. Intheheartland,theMidwestknowshowtocomfortacrowdwhenthesnowstartstofall.Sweetpotato casserolefluffy,warm,and crownedwitha butteryblanketof brownsugarand pecansismore thanjusta sidedish.It’sadishthatbringssecondhelpings,storiestoldacrossthetable,andsighsofcontentmentas thelastspoonfulisscoopedup.It’sthetasteoffamilygatherings,laughter,andwarmththatlingerslong afterdessert.

NoholidayfeastfeelscompleteintheSouthwithoutasliceofpecanpie.IncozykitchensfromGeorgiato Texas, the scent of toasted nuts and caramelized sugar drifting from the oven signals that the season’s best momentsareabouttobegin.Eachsliceflakycrust,gooeyfilling,andthatunmistakablenuttycrunchisa

OutinthemistyPacificNorthwest,thechillofwintercallsforsomethingtowarmyourhandsaswellas your heart. Simmering a pot of mulled cider, heavy with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and a splash of orange, fills thekitchenwithanorchard’sworthofwintercomfort.It’stheperfectcompanionfordecoratingthetree, playingcards bythe fire,or simplypausing towatch thesnow driftdown outside.And ifthe grown-upsfeel likeaddingasplashofbourbonorrum,wellthat’stheseason’slittlesecret.

FromtheSmokiestotheCascades,America’sholidayrecipesremindusthathomeismorethanaplace it’safeeling.It’sthesmellofsomethingdeliciousintheoven,theclinkofmugsandplates,andtheeasy warmthofgatheringclosewhentheworldoutsidefeelscoldanddark.

Sothisholidayseason,rollupyoursleeves,tieonanapron,andcarryonthesmalltraditionsthatmake thistimeofyearsospecial.Sharetherecipesthattellyourfamily’sstory. Tastetheflavorsthatconnectus fromcoasttocoast.Andaboveall,rememberthatthebestpartofeveryholidaytableisthepeoplewho gatheraroundit.

Here’stogoodfood,goodcompany,andthesimplejoyofawarmkitchenthetrueheartofanAmerican holiday.

�� Pumpkin Spice Lattes: AutumninaCup

FewthingsannouncefallinAmericaquitelikethe pumpkinspicelatte.Thisseasonalfavoriteblends richespresso,frothymilk, andamedleyof warm spices—cinnamon,nutmeg,ginger,andclove.First popularizedintheearly2000s,thedrinkhassince becomeanautumntraditioninbothbustlingcities andsmall-towncafés.

From coast to coast, communities make the PSL their own.InPortland,Oregon,indieroastersusehousemadesyrupsandorganicpumpkin.In Burlington, Vermont,baristasdrizzlemaplesyrupto addalocal twist.AndinAsheville,NorthCarolina,cozycoffee shopspairPSLswithpumpkinbreadsfromnearby bakeries.

Thepumpkinspicelatteismorethanadrink—it’sa seasonal ritual. Ordering your first cup each fall feels likesteppingintoautumnitself,wrappedinflavors ofnostalgiaandcomfort.

“Pumpkinspicelattescapture morethanflavor—they’rea celebrationoffallitself.”

DIY

PumpkinSpice Latte Recipe

•2cupsmilk(dairyoroat)

•2tbsppumpkinpuree

•1–2tbspmaplesyruporsugar

•½tsppumpkinpiespiceblend

•½tspvanilla

•½cupespressoorstrongcoffee

☕ Heat milk,puree,andspices untilsteamy.Stir invanillaandcoffee.Topwithwhippedcreamand cinnamon.

Harvest Chili Recipe

•1lbgroundbeeforturkey

•1cuponion,diced

•2cupssweetcorn

•2cansdicedtomatoes

•1cankidneybeans,drained

•1tbspchilipowder

�� Brownmeatandonion,addrest,simmer 30minutes.Servewithcornbread.

��MidwestFallFoods:A Harvest of Comfort

TheMidwestisoftencalledAmerica’sbreadbasket,andnowhereisthatmore evidentthaninautumn.Withharvest infullswing,townsacrossthe region celebrateseasonalfoodsthatblendfarmtraditionswithcozycomfort.

Sweet corn lingers into October, roasted on the cob at county fairs. Pumpkins fill farmstands,turningintosoups,breads,andclassicpies.Crispapplesbecome ciderandcaramel-dippedtreatsatorchardfestivals.AndinMinnesota,wild rice—anativegrain—starsinsoupsandcasseroles.

Travelerscantastethe bestoftheseason inTraverseCity,Michigan, knownfor appleorchardsandfallfestivals;Madison,Wisconsin,wherefarmers’markets overflowwith pumpkinsand squash;and DesMoines, Iowa,home tochili cookoffsandheartyMidwesternflavors.

“Everybiteof Midwestfall foodconnects peopletothe landandto eachother.”

In the heartland, the Midwest knows how to comfort a crowd when the snowstartstofall.Sweetpotatocasserolefluffy,warm,andcrowned withabutteryblanketofbrownsugarandpecansismorethanjusta sidedish. It’sa dishthat bringssecond helpings,stories toldacross the table,andsighs ofcontentmentas thelastspoonful isscoopedup. It’s thetasteoffamilygatherings,laughter,andwarmththatlingerslong afterdessert.

NoholidayfeastfeelscompleteintheSouthwithoutasliceofpecan pie.IncozykitchensfromGeorgiatoTexas,thescentoftoastednuts andcaramelized sugardrifting fromthe ovensignals thatthe season’s bestmomentsareabouttobegin.Eachsliceflakycrust,gooeyfilling, and that unmistakable nutty crunch is a sweet promise that the simplest ingredients can still feel like a celebration. Add a dollop of fresh whipped cream,andyouhaveadessertworthyofanyholidaytable.

Out in the misty Pacific Northwest, the chill of winter calls for something towarmyourhandsaswellasyourheart.Simmeringapotofmulled cider,heavywithcinnamonsticks,cloves,andasplashoforange,fills thekitchenwithanorchard’sworthofwintercomfort.It’stheperfect companionfordecoratingthetree, playingcardsbythefire, orsimply pausingtowatchthesnowdriftdownoutside.Andifthegrown-ups feellikeaddingasplashofbourbonorrum,wellthat’stheseason’s littlesecret.

From the Smokies to the Cascades, America’s holiday recipes remind us thathome ismore thana placeit’s afeeling. It’sthe smellof something delicious in the oven, the clink of mugs and plates, and the easy warmth ofgatheringclosewhentheworldoutsidefeelscoldanddark.

Sothisholidayseason,rollupyoursleeves,tieonanapron,andcarry onthesmalltraditionsthatmakethistimeofyearsospecial.Share therecipesthattellyourfamily’sstory.Tastetheflavorsthatconnect usfromcoasttocoast.Andaboveall,rememberthatthebestpartof everyholidaytableisthepeoplewhogatheraroundit.

Here’stogoodfood,goodcompany,andthe simplejoyofawarm kitchenthetrueheartofanAmericanholiday.

Autumn’s FrontPorch

Small TownsThatGlow

There’ssomethingtimelessabouta smalltowninthefallporcheslined withpumpkins,lanternsglowingat dusk, and neighbors gathering as theairturnscrisp.“Autumn’sFront Porch” celebrates those hidden gemswherecommunitycharmand seasonal beauty come together. From historic streets dressed in goldenleavestofestivalsthatbring everyone outdoors, these are the towns that radiate a cozy, welcoming glow reminding us that the heart of autumn is often found in the simplestplaces.

EXPERIENCE EUFAULA

Historic Charm, Natural Beauty,Holiday Magic

Nestled on the shores of the beautiful 45,000-acre Lake Eufaula, known as the “Bass Fishing Capital oftheWorld,”thecityofEufaula offers visitors an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and historic charm.Outdoor enthusiastswill findnoshortage ofopportunities, fromworld-classfishing,boating, and guided kayaking trips to hiking

scenic trails along the lake and the EufaulaNationalWildlifeRefuge, hometohundredsof speciesof birdsandwildlife.

Equally captivating is the city’s rich history.Eufaulaboastsoneofthe South’s most extensive collections ofantebellumhomes,liningtreeshadedstreets ofthe SethLore

Historic District that tell the stories of a bygone era. The historic districtinvites leisurelystrolls and guidedtours,offering aglimpse intotheelegance andculturethat shapedthecity’spast.

Socialmedia channels

FallinEufaulaisaseasonfilledwithfestivities,wherethewarmthofSouthernhospitalitymeetsthejoyof communitytraditions.Markyourcalendarsforthesecan’t-missevents:

•EufaulaFest,October11–12,2025–Avibrantartsandcraftsfestivalshowcasingregionaltalent.

•MainStreetEufaula’sTrunkorTreat,October31–Afamily-friendlyHalloweencelebrationdowntown.

• DowntownChristmasOpenHouse,November3–Kickofftheholidayseasonwithboutiqueshopping, amazingdiningoptions,andholidaycheer.

• AfterThanksgivingShoppingEvent&IronBowlSaturday,November27–28–Shoplocalandcelebrate Alabama’sfavoritefootballrivalry.

•CityofEufaulaChristmasTreeLighting&Chamber’sCookieswithSanta,December1at6p.m.

•EufaulaChamberofCommerceDowntownChristmasParade,December2at5p.m.

• EufaulaHeritageAssociation’sChristmas Tourof Homes,December 6– Stepinside historichomes beautifullydecoratedfortheholidays.www.eufaulapilgrimage.com

•MistletoeMarket,December6–UniqueholidayshoppingindowntownEufaula.

•SantaStroll, December13 –A festivedaytime downtownshopping Saturday.You mighteven runinto Mr. andMrs.Claus.

So whether you’re drawn by the lake, the history, or the holiday celebrations, Eufaula is the perfect destination foryournextgetaway.ExperienceEufaulaforaweekendoralifetime.

Autumn’s FrontPorch

Marietta,Ohio’sSeasonal Embrace

Thearchitectureitself lendscharacterto the season. Intricate woodwork and tall windowsframe theporches, offeringviews oftreetopsthatblazewithcoloralongthe riverbanks. Even the simplest decoration an applebasketleftbythedoororawreath crafted from dried leaves takes on new charm against the backdrop of these homes. WalkingthroughMariettainOctoberfeels likesteppingintoapainting,whereevery porch is both a personal retreat and a public invitation.

Autumnhasawayofturningentiretownsintolivingstorybooks.Leavesshiftfromgreentogold,red,andbronze, creatinga canopythat feelsalmost theatrical.In Marietta,Ohio—a historicriverfront townwhere theMuskingum and OhioRivers meet—fallis notjust achange ofseason. It’sa performancethat unfoldson everyfront porch,down treelinedstreets,andacrossthetown’sVictorianhomesthatseembuilttoshowcaseautumn’sbeauty.

A TownBuiltfor Porches

Mariettaisthekind ofplacewhereporches matter.Thehistoricdistrict isfilledwith19th-century Victorian homes, many adorned with wraparound verandas and decorative railings. In the fall, those porches become gatheringplacesthatdoubleasseasonaldisplays.Pumpkinsclusteronsteps,rockingchairsarepulled forwardwithplaidthrows,andlanternsflickerastwilightarrivesearliereachevening.

“Marietta’sporches don’tjustframehomes theyframetheseason itself.”

River Reflections of Autumn

WhatsetsMariettaapartfrommanyothersmalltownsisits relationship with the water. The confluence of the Muskingum and Ohio Rivers provides a reflective stage for autumn’s display.On acalm day,the colorsof theseason doublein the water,givingtheimpressionoftwoworlds—oneaboveand onemirroredbelow.

Porchesthatfacetheriveroffersomeofthebestvantage points. Residents and visitors alike settle into chairs with mugs ofcider,watchingtheslowdriftofboatsagainsttheglowof mapleandoaktrees.Thesoundofgeeseoverheadandthe steadyrhythmoftherivercompletethepicture.It’sakindof seasonalmeditation,onethat remindspeopleofhow closely tiedMariettaistobothnatureandhistory.

Community TraditionsonDisplay

Autumn in Marietta is also marked by community spirit. Local festivals and events transform porches into stages where decorations become part of the celebration. Homes oftencompete,not formallybut in spirit, to create the warmest and most welcoming seasonal displays. Cornstalks stand tall

againstporchposts,gourds and chrysanthemumsspilloversteps, andporchlightsglowjustalittle brighterduringeveningwalks.

Inlate October,trick-or-treaters marchuphistoric staircases,their costumesilluminated byjack-o’lanterns.Familiessitonporches withbowlsof candy,chattingwith neighbors between the stream ofchildren. Laterin theseason, porchesbecomegatheringplaces forconversationsaboutfootball, holidayplans,andtheyear’sfinal harvests.The rhythmof lifeslows, yetconnectionsfeelstronger.

A TownThatHonors ItsHistory Celebrating Local Flavors

Marietta is Ohio’s oldest city, and its heritage is woven into the autumn experience. Many of the homes were builtwhenporcheswere consideredessentialfor sociallife—a placeto greetneighbors, sharestories, andmarktheseasons.Walking throughthetown today, that tradition continues. The porches feel alive, notasrelicsbutaslivingpartsofdailylife.

TheVictorianandFederal-stylearchitectureblends seamlesslywithfall’spalette.Intricatespindlesand iron railings are framed by crimson ivy. Wide porches, once used to cool off on summer evenings, now host pots of mums and hay bales stacked with pumpkins. Marietta’shistorybreathes throughthesespaces, provingthat traditionand seasonalitycan co-existin waysthatfeeltimeless.

TheSensory Experience of Fall

Beyondthe visualspectacle, autumnin Marietta engages every sense. The crunch of leaves underfoot echoes down quiet streets. The smell of woodsmoke drifts from chimneys, mingling with the scent of apple pies cooling on windowsills. Porch swings creak softly, keepingrhythmwiththerustleofwindthroughthetrees.

Even the river contributes its soundtrack—the lappingofwateragainstdocks,theoccasionalhorn ofapassingbarge.Sittingonaporch,wrappedina blanket as the sun dips behind the hills, one feels both connectedto thetown andcocooned bythe season.

The porches of Marietta don’t just showcase decorations; they also reflect the bounty of the season.Apples,gourds,andsquashesoftenappear as centerpieces, either stacked in baskets or arranged onsteps.Farmers’marketsintowninspiremanyof thesedisplays,andresidentstakeprideinweaving localharvestsintotheirdecorations.

It’scommontoseeneighborssharingbakedgoods on porches—slices of pumpkin bread, mugs of warm cider,or jarsof homemadejam. Thefront porch actsas abridge betweenprivate kitchensand public hospitality,reinforcing thesense thatautumn in Mariettaismeanttobeshared.

Reflection and Renewal

Porches in Marietta also offer quiet space for reflection. Autumn is, after all, a season of transition. Astheleavesfallandthedaysshorten,peoplefind comfort in sitting outside, bundled in sweaters, considering the months behind them and the holidaysahead. There’ssomething groundingabout the simplicity of a porch view—the slow movement of theriver,the shiftingcolorsof thetrees,the passing ofneighborsoneveningwalks.

Thisreflectivequalitymakes autumnporchesnot onlyvisuallyappealingbutemotionallyrestorative. Theyremind usthat change,while inevitable,can be beautiful.

Holdingonto theSeason

AsNovembermovestowardwinter, porches in Marietta remain central todaily life.Outdoor heatersor fire pits appear, extending the season just a little longer. Blankets and throws become essential, and neighbors linger on steps, unwilling to retreat indoors too quickly.

Evenasthefirstfrostsettles,the spirit of welcome endures. Porches remain decorated, lights stay on,and conversationscontinue. In this way, Marietta teaches animportant lesson:autumn is fleeting,but itswarmth canlast as longaswechoosetoholdontoit.

“Autumnisfleeting, butMariettashowsus howtoholdonalittle longer.”

Inmanyways,Mariettaisatownbuiltto illustrate the cover story of autumn. Its riverfront views, historic homes, and strong senseofcommunityallconverge onone symbolthefrontporch.Whether lavishly decorated or simply adorned, these spaces embodywhat makesthe seasonspecial: beauty,hospitality,reflection,andasense ofbelonging.

As visitors and locals alike experience Marietta in the fall, they discover that autumn’s front porch is more than a metaphor. It is a living, breathing part of the town’scharacter—astage wherehistory, nature,andcommunitycometogetherin oneunforgettableseason.

“Frompumpkins onstepsto neighbors onswings, everyporch tellsastoryof welcome.”

Glenwood,Minnesota

Glenwood isa charming smallcitynestled inWestCentralMinnesota and serves asthecountyseat of PopeCounty.

Glenwood, Minnesota

Glenwoodis acharming smallcity nestled in West Central Minnesota and serves as the county seat of Pope County. Located about twohours westof Minneapolis, Glenwoodsitsonthepicturesque shoresofLake Minnewaskaone ofMinnesota’s mostscenic and popular lakes, and among one ofthelargerlakesinthestateof 10,000lakes.

No matter which direction you arrive from, the views entering Glenwood are stunning, especially whenyoucatchyourfirstglimpse ofLakeMinnewaska. Foroneof thebestpanoramicviewsofthe cityand lake,visit MountLookout.

Glenwood is a vibrant lake community known for great fishing year-round whether it’s spring, summer, and fall, or ice fishing in the winter. The downtown area is beautifully maintained, adornedwith sailboats,hanging flower baskets, and welcoming signage.The pedestrian-friendly MainStreetisperfectforwalking

orbikingand offersavariety of specialtyshops,restaurants,and lodgingoptions.

Throughout the year, the Glenwood WelcomeCenter hostsa variety of events for families.During SeptemberandOctober,youwill find our Pope County Farmers Market,locatedatBarsnessPark. TheCommunityHalloweenTrick orTreatevent,andinDecember our three week Magical Christmas in Glenwood Celebration. The Glenwoodcityhostsa varietyof communityevents.The summer festival, Waterama, held the last full weekend of July, is packed with fun activities for all ages. In August, the Pope County Fair brings traditional fair fun, and in February, the winter celebration Winterama takes place on the frozen surface of Lake Minnewaska.

Outdoor recreation is a big part of Glenwood life.Thecityhastwomajorparks:

•BarsnessParkfeatureshikingandbiking trails,tentandRVcamping, discgolf,and asplashpadandPickleballcourts.

• GlenwoodCityPark,locatedacrossfrom Lake Minnewaska, offers a basketball court, pickleball courts, and a historic bandshell wherethe popularMusic in thePark seriesis heldthroughout the summermonths’scenicboatcruiseson Lake Minnewaska, a public swimming beach, splash pad, several hotels and resortsforvisitors.

GlenwoodalsohasaCentralSquareArts andCulturalCenterandaCarnegiePublic Library.

Whetheryou’recomingforaday,staying fora week,or lookingfor aplace tocall home,Glenwoodisabeautiful,welcoming destinationwithsomethingforeveryone.

A Seasonal Canvas of Possibilities

Oneof Glenwood’sgreatest strengthsis thedepth ofits seasonal programming. In summer, the lake vicinity teems with life:boating,swimming,fishing,orsimplysettlinginlakeside onadock asthesun dipslow.In winter,theregion embraces silencein motioncross-country skiing,snowmobiling, ice fishing,andevenicegolfduring“Winterama”bringaplayful edgetothecoldmonths.

ExploreMinnesota

ButGlenwooddoesn’tstopattheextremes.Springushersin communityexpositions,clean-ups,Eastercelebrations,and thegradualreawakeningofcampgrounds.

ExploreMinnesota

Falloffersfestivals,harvestevents,andachancetoseethe naturalcolorsofMinnesota’stransition.Inotherwords,the townisaliveyear-round,invitingbothlocalsandvisitorsto partake.

Thatconsistentrhythmisnotaccidental.It’sinmanyways theheartbeatoftheWelcomeCenter’smission:to“promote tourism, events and activities” and “enrich lives in the Glenwood LakesArea.”

welcomeglenwood.org

Welcoming withIntention

Community AnchorsBeyond theScenery

Glenwood’sattractionsarenot confinedtoitslakes andtrails.The townleansintoheritageandcommunityinwaysmanysmallplaces canonlyaspireto. TheWelcomeCenterpartners withtheChamberof CommercetohosteventslikethePopeCountyCommunityExpo—a no-costshowcaseofover150exhibitors,workshops,entertainment, andfamilyfun.

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There’s also a steady calendar of local favorites: Music in the Park, Magic Christmas in Glenwood, Kids’ Day, Community Trick-or-Treat, and more. welcomeglenwood.org+1

TheWelcome Glenwoodprogram illustrateshow muchthe towncares aboutmore thanjust visitors;it caresabout people.Since itsinception in2013, theprogram hasaimed toassist newcomers,bridging thegap sothatnewcomers orresidentswho stillfeelnew canfeelrooted, find resources,andgetconnected. welcomeglenwood.org

In that sense, Glenwood positions itself not just as a “nice place to visit,” butasaplaceonemighttrulycallhome.Thetown’smotto“Comefor aday,stayforaweekorliveforalifetime”capturesthataspiration. welcomeglenwood.org+1

Socialmedia channels

Walkingthe streetsof Glenwood—ormeandering itslakeshore—you sensea kindof deliberatehospitality. ItshowsinhowtheWelcomeCenterprovidesrelocationpackets,visitorguides,andpersonalmeetings (whetheratthevisitor’shome,placeofemployment,oranothercomfortablevenue). welcomeglenwood.org+2

Itshowsinthewayhomespunevents—Kid’sDay,sensorywalks,trick-or-treatroutes—arewovenintoa yearlongtapestry. welcomeglenwood.org+1

Butthere’salsoachallengeimplicitin allthis:howtomaintainauthenticitywhile growing.Asmorepeople learnaboutGlenwood’s“hidden”charms,canthecommunitypreservethesenseofneighborliness,the balanceofnatureandsmall-towncomfort,andthespacesforbothresidentsandtravelers?

Manycommunitiesthatattractattentionstrugglewithoveruse,commercialization,orlosingtheirsoulto tourism. Glenwood’s success depends not merely on marketing but on stewardship of its natural resources, ofitslocalinstitutions,andofitscommunalidentity.

“InGlenwood,theseasonsaren’tjust weatherthey’reawayoflife.”

“It’snotaboutdazzle;it’saboutinvitation.”

WhyGlenwoodDeservesa Closer Look

refreshingalternative: modestscale, generousprogramming, anda placethat doesn’tdemand todazzle so muchasinvite.Wantto fishatdawn,strollquiet streets,joinafarmers’market, watchcommunitytheater, ortryice-fishingatdusk?Youcandoallthathere.

Glenwoodisnota“destination”thatoversellsitself;it’saplacethatdeliversquietly,steadily,seasonafter season.

IfI wereto makeone plea,it’s this:visit Glenwoodnot tocheck off“Minnesota townwith lakes,”but toslow down,connect,and seehowthe communitynurturesa lifethatskips theclichés.In doingso,you mayfind it’snotonlyabeautifulgetaway,butsomewhereyou’dwanttoreturntoorindeed,stay.

CozyCabins

The All-American AutumnEscapefor Fall2025

Whenthefirstcoldbreezerattlesthe treesandtheforestsblazeinreds, golds,andfieryoranges,America’s cozycabinscomealive.Tuckeddeep inthewoods,perchedonmountain ridges,orhiddenbesideglassylakes, theserusticretreatsaretheperfect antidotetobusylivesandcrowded schedules.Thisfall,travelersacross theUnitedStatesarerediscovering themagicofslowingdownonecabin atatime.

Picturewakingupinasnuglogcabin in the Great Smoky Mountains, where the mist floats through ancient valleys andeverytrailleadstoanother breathtakingview.Bymid-October, theSmokiesareapainter’spalette ofcolor.Morning’smeansteaming coffeeonawraparoundporch whilebirdschatterinthebranches overhead.Daysarespenthikingto waterfallsorcruisingalongscenic driveslikeNewfoundGapRoad,and nightswrapyouinthewarmthof acracklingfireplaceorabubbling outdoorhottubunderacanopyof stars.

OutWest,LakeTahoecallsthose cravingcrispmountainairandthe hushof pineforests. Thisalpine jewel straddlingCaliforniaandNevada tradesitssummercrowdsforquiet trailsandcalm,clearwaterswhen

fallarrives.Cabinshererangefrom nostalgicA-frameswithvintageskilodgecharmtomodernhideaways withfloor-to-ceiling windowsframing snow-dustedpeaks.Spendyour daysexploringaspen-linedtrailsor paddlingontheglassylakebefore sinkinginto afireside armchairas the firstflakesdriftdownoutside.

Nottobeoutdone,theCatskillsof upstateNewYork remindusthat you don’thavetoventurefarforatrue fallretreat.Justafewhoursnorthof Manhattan, winding roads deliver you tostorybookcabinstuckedamong toweringmaplesandwhispering birches.Here,cozymeansclawfoot tubs,woodstoves, hammocksstrung betweentrees, andthe distantsound ofarushingstream.TheCatskills inviteyoutopickapples,wanderartfilledtownslikeWoodstock,orwatch waterfallstumbledownmossycliffs atKaaterskillFalls.Asdusksettles in,gatheraroundafirepitforcider andconversationunderablanketof stars.

Farthernorthwest,Leavenworth, Washington,putsitsownalpinespin ontheseason.ThisBavarian-style villagesitscradledbytherugged CascadeMountains,whichblaze goldwithlarchtreeseachOctober. Afteradayonmountaintrailsor samplingbratwurstandpretzelsat

thetown’sOktoberfest,yourcabin retreatawaitswithtimberbeams, softblankets,andawarmhearthto wardofftheeveningchill.

Acrossthe country,these cozycabins aremorethanjustaplacetosleep they’reaninvitationtoreconnect. Totradescreensfortrails,trafficfor forestpaths,andrushedschedules forslowmorningsbythefire.They remindusthatthebestpartsof travelaren’talwaystheplaceswego, buthowwefeelwhenwegetthere.

Thisfall, skipthe longlines andcrosscountryflights.Instead,packyour flannel,grabyourfavoritebook,and escapetoacabindeepinAmerica’s backyard. Watch the leaves drift down likeconfetti.Sipsomethingwarm. Breatheinpineandwoodsmoke. Andremember whatit feelslike todo nothingandeverythingallatonce. Becausewhenitcomestofallinthe USA,nothingsayscozyquitelikea cabininthewoods.

TheDalles,Oregon

Where Autumn’sGlowMeetsGorge Tradition

Therearetownsthatwearautumnlightly,andthentherearetownslikeTheDalles,Oregon,thatletthe seasonseep intoevery corner.Nestled onthe banksof theColumbia Riverand framedby therugged cliffs of the Gorge, The Dalles shines in fall as a place where history, community, and color meet. It is a small town withabigstory,andinOctoberlight,itglows.

A Porch witha View

The Dalles’ downtown captures that“front porch”feeling atthe heart of this feature series. Its streets are lined with historic brick storefronts and Victorian homesthatdressthemselvesfor theseason. Pumpkinsperch on stoops,leavesdriftontocenturyold sidewalks, and neighbors waveacross decoratedporches. FromSecondStreet tothehillside neighborhoods, porches here aren’tjust architecturalaccents theyareinvitationstoslowdown, sipsomething warm,and watch thesunsinkovertheColumbia.

CommunityattheCore

At the center of that spirit is the Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore The Dalles Visitor Center, which has been advocating and connecting for decades.They embodythe town’s cooperative character. Ribbon cuttings,communitypromotions, andlocalcelebrationsarepartof theireverydaywork.Thatmeans when a new café opens or a familyownedshophitsamilestone,the whole town knows and takes part.

In a season that emphasizes gathering, this level of civic connectionfeelsespeciallyvivid. AutumninTheDallesisnot just about changing leaves it’s about a town changing together, keeping traditions while embracing growth.

�� AutumnHighlights in TheDalles

• Richboldreds andlight, crisp fruit-forwardwhites fromGorge wineries

• Orchard harvests & seasonal ciderstands

• Downtown mural walks in golden light

• Stories of Lewis & Clark, the OregonTrail,andpioneerlifeat localmuseums

• National Neon Sign Museum illuminating history from the very beginningofneon

•Nationallyknownfishingonthe Columbia from giant sturgeon tolegendaryriver“monsters”

• Chamber-hosted ribbon cuttings &communityevents

“InTheDalles,autumn’sglowismorethanleaves andsunsets—it’sthelightofacommunity thrivingtogether,shapedbypioneers,river legends,andaharvestworthcelebrating.”

A Season ofTaste and Harvest

FewplacesblendsceneryandflavorthewayTheDallesdoesinfall. Thesurroundingorchards androllingfields showcasetheirrichest bounty this time of year, from sweet cherries and crisp pears to golden wheatandwine grapes.Afterthe grapesarestomped andtheharvest gathered,thecommunity comestogetherto raiseaglass oflocalwine orcraftbeerincelebration.

Theaircarriestheearthynotesofpine,fir,andsage,abackdropfor sippingwinesfromtheGorge.Tastingroomspour bold,spicymerlots and rich cabernets that warm crisp evenings. Local restaurants lean into theseasonaswell,sourcingfromnearbyfarmsandturningharvest intoheartyplates.Astrollthroughtownmightincludeasliceofpie from a bakery, a pour of Gorge wine, or a steaming cider enjoyed while admiringmuralsthatsplashcoloracrossdowntownwalls.

Murals,Museums, andMore

The Dalles doesn’t just tell its story in books it paints it on walls. Murals scattered through downtown capturemomentsofpioneerlife,riverhistory,and communitypride.Inthegoldenlightoffall,these outdoorgalleriesglowjustasbrightlyasthetrees.

Museums from Fort Dalles to the Columbia GorgeDiscoveryCenter—addevendeeperlayers, remindingvisitorsthatthiscommunityhasbeena crossroads for centuries. And the National Neon Sign Museumshinesalightofitsown,tellingthestory ofneonfromitsvery beginningsandilluminating howsignsshapedAmericanculture.Autumnisan especiallygood timeto exploreit all,with fewer crowds and a slower rhythm that matches the season.

What truly sets The Dalles apart is that its glow comes not just from scenery but from people. Thiscommunityisfullofstoriesofnewbusinesses opening,wellness centersexpanding, andlocals not onlychasingtheirdreamsbutachievingthem.Each new venture adds to the town’s warmth and vibrancy.

Asporches lightup withlanterns andstreets fillwith festivals, The Dalles shows that small towns can thrive withoutlosing theirintimacy. Allof itunfolds against sweeping views of the Columbia River in the majestic Gorge that divides the beautiful states of Oregon and Washington the place we proudly call home. Here, dailylife iswoven togetherin away whereeveryone knowseachother—atruereflectionofcommunity inaction.

��QuickGuides:PeakFall

FoliagebyState

Week Statesat Peak

LateSept–EarlyOct

Early–MidOct

Minnesota:LateSept–EarlyOct•Wisconsin:LateSept–MidOct•Michigan (UP&Northern):LateSept–EarlyOct

Michigan(LowerPeninsula):Early–MidOct

Week Statesat Peak

MidOct

Mid–LateOct

Iowa:MidOct

llinois:Mid–LateOct•Nebraska:Mid–LateOct

Week Statesat Peak

Mid–LateOct

Indiana:Mid–LateOct

MidOct–EarlyNov

Ohio:MidOct–EarlyNov•Missouri:MidOct–EarlyNov

�� TipBox:How toTime It Right

•Usestatetourism“fallcolortrackers”onlineforweeklyupdates.

•Plandrivesmidweektoavoidcrowds.

•Peakcoloroftenlastsjust7–10daysineachregion.

�� Mini Travel Spotlights: Top

5 Fall Scenic Drives in theMidwest

“FewplacesrivaltheMidwestwhenit comestoautumnroadspaintedincolor.”

1.Great River Road (Wisconsin&Minnesota)

Follow the Mississippi River as bluffs glow gold and crimson. Smallrivertownslike Pepinand Red Wing make for charming stops.

4.NorthShoreScenic Drive(Minnesota)

Hug the shoreline of Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Portage. Endless lake views meet fiery mapleandbirchforests.

2.HockingHillsScenic Byway (Ohio)

Winding roads through sandstone cliffs,caves,andwaterfallsburst with vibrant reds and oranges. Perfectforpairingwithahikein HockingHillsStatePark.

5.CoveredBridgeScenic Byway (Ohio)

TravelthroughFairfieldCounty’s historic covered bridges framed by autumn leaves—a photographer’s dream.

3.DoorCountyCoastal Byway (Wisconsin)

Lighthouse-dottedshores,cherry orchards,and charmingvillages createoneoftheMidwest’smost photographedfalldrives.

SilentSlayer GhostTours

TampaBay’s After-DarkStorytellers (andGhostHunters)

“NotallofFlorida’sresidentsare living.”

OPENER

Byday, TampaBay dazzles:sailboats stipplethe water,cigar smokelore perfumesYbor’s bricklanes, andtheskylineglowsahealthygold.Butwhenthe sundissolvesandthepalmslifttheirfrondstothe breeze,anothercitystirsolder,stranger,humming withfootstepsyoucan’tquiteplace.

Ifyouwanttomeetthatcity,youbookaticketwith SilentSlayerGhostTours,theGulfCoastoutfitthat treats haunted history as both scholarship and stagecraft,andinvites youtobecome partofthe investigation.Theirwalksdon’trelyonjumpscares; theybuildatmosphere,evidence,andempathy.

“Wedon’tguaranteeghosts.Weguarantee historyandamethodforlistening.”

WHATSETSTHEM APART

SilentSlayer’s routesare builtfrom documented events, local records, and folklore that refuses to die. You won’t just get a campfire tale—you’ll get context: howahotelchanged handsafteranunexplained death,whycigar factoriesbecame pressurecookers for accidents, and which waterfront tragedies carved themselvesintoTampa’scollectivememory.

Guides are trained performers as much as historians, blending steady narration with investigative instinct. Oneguide,criminologystudentPaigeHorton,even appliesherbackgroundinevidenceandanalysisto heightenthecredibilityofeachstop.

Theresult isintimate andimmersive. Thegroup pausesatlantern-litcorners,letting thewind,the hushoftraffic,orthecreakofagatefillthesilence. Thesegapsbecomepart oftheperformance—an opportunityforgueststofeeltheweightofhistory pressingin.

ParanormalinvestigatorsusingEMFmetersatthe May-StringerHouse.

BECOMETHEINVESTIGATOR

Onselectnights,SilentSlayerupstheantebyplacingparanormaltoolsinguests’hands.Theguidesbring alongEMFmeters,spiritboxes,temperatureguns,andevendowsingrods.

Sometimes the equipment stays quiet. Other times, strange spikes in energy, voices chattering through static, oracolddraftwherenoneshouldexistmakethegroupgasp.Nothingisstaged,andthatunpredictability makesthehuntunforgettable.

Tools oftheNight

• EMFMeters – detect spikes in electromagnetic energy

• Spirit Boxes – rapid radio scans where voices sometimesbreakthrough

•TemperatureGuns–trackunexplainedcoldspots

•DowsingRods–old-worldyes/nocommunication

WhereThey Walk

• Tampa:Hauntedhotels,riverfrontlegends,moberacrime

•SafetyHarbor:Tocobagaechoes,mineralsprings, sacredground

• TarponSprings:Sponge-diverheritage,lawman’s fatalshot

• Palmetto:Pioneer homes, yellow-fever burials, forgottengraveyards

OldHamiltonCountyJailhauntedhallswithstories carvedintothestone.

RoseCemeteryinTarponSpringsoneofthemostactivesitesontheSilentSlayerroute.

“Thesouvenirisn’tinthegiftshopit’sthewayyou’ll neverwalkthesestreetsthesameagain.”

Socialmedia channels

Plan YourNight

•Toursdepartatdusk

•Last90–120minutes

• BookdirectatFamilyfriendly, but mature themesarediscussed

PrivateCemeteryTourinClearwaterahauntingly personallookatTampaBay’spast.

HOWTODOITRIGHT

Silent Slayer Ghost Tours run year-round, with peak demand during fall and Halloween. Tickets average $30 perperson,withprivatehuntsavailable.

Whattobring:Comfortableshoesforbrickstreets,lightlayersforbreezynights,andcuriosity.Beliefis optional.Respectismandatory.

Whatyou’ll takehome: Anew wayof seeingTampa Bay.That glamoroushotel becomesa ledgerof restless guests.Thatpalm-linedlaneinSafetyHarborbecomessacredground.Thatquietcemeterybecomesa chorusofnamesnotforgotten.

FOLIAGE IN FALL

When autumn sweeps across the country, nature paints the landscape inboldstrokesofcrimson,amber, and gold. From winding country roads to quiet river valleys, the season transforms ordinary backdropsintobreathtakingworks of art. “Foliage in Fall” invites readers to experience the magic of crisp mornings,scenicdrives,andsmall towns glowing under canopies of color.It’s acelebration ofharvest warmth,communityspirit,andthe timeless beauty that makes fall travel unforgettable.

FoliageinFall

Maine’s Rangeley Lakes Region

Whenpeoplepicture Maineinautumn, theyoftenthink ofcoastal lighthousesframedbyfierymaplesorthedramaticpeaksofAcadia NationalPark.Butjustinland,farfromthetrafficofcruiseportsand crowdedoverlooks,liestheRangeleyLakesRegion—atranquilcorner ofwesternMainewhereautumnunfoldsonitsownterms.Withvast mountain ridges, deep blue lakes, and a wilderness spirit, this is a place wherefoliageisasexpansiveasitisunforgettable.

“Inautumn,theRangeleyLakesfeellikethe horizonhasbeenpaintedinfieryhues.”

A Wilderness ofColor

At the heart of the Rangeley area are six major lakes, all surrounded by rolling hills and forested ridgelines. In autumn, the landscape becomes aspectacularpatchwork ofreds,oranges, andyellowsreflected in mirror-smoothwater.Earlymorningoftenbringslowfogacrossthe lakes, giving the illusion that the hills are floating islands of color. As the sunrises,the fogliftsto revealcrispoutlines ofmountainscrowned in gold.Unlikemanytourist-heavyfoliagedestinations,Rangeleyoffers space—bigskies,widehorizons,andstretchesofroadwheretheonly company might be a loon calling from the water. The sense of openness allowsvisitorstobreatheinfallwithoutdistraction.

Scenic Byway Highlight

TaketheRangeleyLakes ScenicByway,a35-mile loopofwinding roads andoverlooks.Don’t missHeightofLand, wheresweepingviews ofMooselookmeguntic Lakeglowinautumn’s brightestshades.

FewplacesintheNortheastrivaltheRangeleyLakesScenicByway.This35-mileloopweavesthroughlake country, up into the highlands, and past overlooks that frame the wilderness in every shade of autumn. Height of Land, one of the most famous viewpoints in Maine, offers a sweeping panorama where Mooselookmeguntic Lakespreads outbelow ina mosaicof islandsand shorelineforest. InOctober, itfeels asthough theentire horizonhasbeenpaintedinfieryhues.Smallerroads,likethoseleadingtoRichardsonLakeoruptoward Oquossoc,areequallyrewarding.Travelerswillfindthemselvesslowingdown,notjustforthewinding curvesbutforthesheernumberofvistasbeggingforapause.

“HeightofLandprovesthat sometimesthebestviewis alsothequietest.”

Autumn by Water

Thelakesthemselvesareasmuchapartoftheshow asthemountains.Earlymorningsbringfogthatliftsto revealglowingforestsmirroredinglassybluewaters.

Hiking intotheSeason

Forthosewho prefertosee fall foliage on foot, the Rangeley regionhasnoshortage oftrails.

Bald Mountain provides a relatively short climb with an impressive payoff:afiretoweratthesummit thatdelivers360-degreeviewsof lakesandmountainsaflamewith autumncolor.Longertreks,such asthe AppalachianTrail section crossing Saddleback Mountain, immersehikersinhigh-elevation forests before revealing open ridgelines that seem to stretch forever.Thecrispair,thecrunch of leaves underfoot, and the quiet of the wilderness create animmersivefallexperiencefew placescanmatch.

“Here,fallisn’tstagedforcrowdsit’slivedfullybythelanditself.”

A True AlternativetotheCoast

WhatmakestheRangeleyLakesRegionsoappealingisthatitfeels bothremoteandaccessible.It’sfarenoughfromMaine’sbusycoastal attractionstoremainpeaceful,yetcloseenoughforalongweekend trip from Boston or Portland. Here, autumn is not a spectacle staged for crowds—it’sa seasonlived fullyby theland itself.For travelersseeking sweepingfoliageviews,crispmountainair,andlakesideserenity,the RangeleyLakesRegion offersanautumnescape thatrivalsthebest of NewEngland—withoutthebustle.Infall,thewildernessdoesn’tjust surroundyou;itembracesyou.

A RegionSteeped in Tradition

The Rangeley Lakes area has long been a retreat for those seeking the outdoors, dating backto19th-centuryanglerswho came for brook trout and solitude. Thatheritagelingersintherustic lodges,cozycabins,and general storesthatstilldefinetheregion. In autumn, local bakeries and farmstandscelebratetheseason with pumpkin breads, maple candies, and apple cider. Small town centers like Rangeley and Oquossocarewelcomingwithout being commercialized. Visitors can strollthroughagalleryfeaturing localartists,grabaheartymealin aroadsidecafé,orsimplysitona dockand watchthe sunsetset the lakeaglow.

FoliageinFall

Roxbury,New York’s CatskillColors

Nestleddeep inthe CatskillMountains ofupstate NewYork, thevillage of Roxbury offers an authentic slice of autumn that often flies under the radar. While many travelers head to bigger names like the Adirondacks orHudson Valley,Roxbury quietlyunfolds aseason ofdazzling foliage, peaceful countryside, and the kind of small-town atmosphere that feels tailor-madeforfall.

A Landscape of Transformation

AsSeptember givesway toOctober, thehillsides surroundingRoxbury ignitewith color.Maples blaze incrimson,oaksturnadeepburgundy,andbirches shimmerlikestrandsofgold.Becauseofthevaried elevation in the Catskills, the season lasts longer than inflatter regions,with thepeaks glowingfirst before colortricklesintothevalleys.Bymid-October,the entire landscape seems dipped in firelight, creating a natural panorama that feels both grand and intimate.

ExploringtheOutdoors

Scenic Roads andCountry Lanes

Thedrive intoRoxbury ispart ofthe experience itself.Windingcountryroadsrevealscenesofrustic barns,oldstonewalls,andcoveredbridgesframed bytrees ablazewith color.Unlike morecrowded routesintheNortheast,theseroadsinvitetravelers to slow down, pull over for photos, or simply breathe inthecrispmountainair.Everyturnoffersanew composition—rollingpastures,ridgelines brushed ingold,orfarmhousesglowingagainstabackdrop offieryhills.

Roxburyissurroundedbytrailsthathighlighttheseasonatitsbest.TheCatskillScenicTrailfollowsan oldrailbedthroughopenmeadowsandwoodedstretches,perfectforaleisurelywalkorbikerideunder acanopyofautumnleaves.Forhikersseekingelevation,nearbysummitsoffersweepingviewsofvalleys awash in color. Even a stroll through the village center rewards visitors with tree-lined streets and the sound ofleavescrunchingunderfoot.

“EverycurveoftheroadinRoxburyfeels likeanewautumnpainting.”

��

Tastesof Autumninthe Catskills

•Hotcider andfresh-pressed applejuice fromlocal orchards

•Maplesugarcandiesandsyrupsfromroadsidestands

•Farm-freshpumpkinpiesandheartysoups

•Artisancheesesandbreadsatweekendfarmers’markets

“Acupofcider,a crispbreeze,and

hillsonfirewithcolor that’sautumninthe Catskills.”

�� ScenicHighlights Around Roxbury

• CatskillScenicTrail–Aneasy,flatpathalongan oldrailbedsurroundedbyfieldsandtreesblazing withcolor.

•MineKillFallsOverlook–Ashortdrivebringsyou todramaticwaterfallsframedbyautumnleaves.

• John Burroughs Memorial Site – Celebrate the legacy of the naturalist while enjoying hillside views acrosstheCatskills.

• RuralBackroads–TakeRoute30orlocalbyways forpicturesquedrivesthroughvalleysdottedwith barnsandstonewalls.

“Here,thecolorsaren’trushedthey rollgentlyfromridgetovalley.”

A Town With Character

Though small in size, Roxbury brims with character. Its historic buildings, quiet shops, and cozy cafés provide awelcomingpausebetweenoutdooradventures.Localinnsandfarmhouseshostvisitorslookingfora retreat,whileseasonal marketsshowcasethe bountyofthe harvest.Autumnhere feelslessabout rushing from one attraction to the next and more about savoring the details—the scent of woodsmoke, the warmth ofcider,andthesightofleavesdriftinglazilyinthebreeze.

HarvestSeasonHighlights

�� Quick Tipsfor Visitors

• Timing: Peak foliage usually runs late September through mid-October.

•Bringlayers:Crispmorningsgivewaytosunnyafternoons.

• Camera ready: Light shifts fast in the mountains; golden hour is magic.

•Slow travel: Allow time for unplanned stops sometimes the best views arefromapull-offorfrontporch.

A Fleeting, LastingBeauty

Fall is also a time of gathering in the Catskills. Around Roxbury, farms open their gates for pumpkin picking, hayrides, and roadside stands filled with fresh produce.Applesarepressed intocider,squashis soldinbushels,andmapleproductsremindvisitors thatsweetnesslingersevenaswinterapproaches. Theseseasonalritualstiethebeautyofthefoliage totherhythmsof locallife,givingtravelers achance toconnectnotjust withthescenerybut withthe communityitself.

Like much of the Northeast, the brilliance of Roxbury’sfoliageisbrief.Afewwindy dayscanshift thelandscapefromfullblazetobarebranches.Yet, thatfleetingnatureiswhatmakestheexperience so memorable. Each visit feels unique—colors, weather,andlightcombinedifferentlyeveryyear. Longaftertheleaveshavefallen,visitorscarrywith themthememoryofquietdrives,goldenhillsides, andthepeacefulcharmofatownthatseemsmade forautumn.

“Drivingherefeels likeaslowjourney throughanoilpainting inmotion.”

FoliageinFall

Discovering Connecticut’s Hidden Litchfield Hills

WhenautumnarrivesinNewEngland,thespotlightoftenshinesonVermont’smountainroadsorNew Hampshire’sscenicbyways. Yettuckedinto northwesternConnecticutlies aquietercorner wherefallfeels morepersonal,moreintimate,andjustasdazzling.TheLitchfieldHillsregion,oftenovershadowedbyits biggerneighbors,offersapatchworkofrollingfarmland,windingcountrylanes,andforestedridgelines thattransformintoapainter’scanvaseveryOctober.

TownsThatFeelTimeless Trails, Rivers, andQuietEscapes

Part of what makes the Litchfield Hills so inviting is the character of its towns. Places like Kent, Cornwall, and Washingtonembracetheseasonwithquietcharm. White-steepledchurches, clapboardhouses, and shadedtowngreensprovideabackdropthatfeels frozenintime.

Kent,forexample,sitsalongtheHousatonicRiver andissurroundedbyhikingtrailsthatcomealive with fall colors. Cornwall is home to one of the oldest coveredbridgesinthestate,itsweatheredbeams framing views of rushing water and flaming treetops beyond.Washington offersa walkablevillage center filled with small shops, cozy cafés, and galleries showcasingregionalartists. Noneofthese towns shout for attentioninstead, they invite visitors to slow down,breathedeeply,andsavorautumn’srhythm.

Outdoor enthusiasts find the Litchfield Hills particularly rewardingin fall.The AppalachianTrail cutsthrough the region, with stretches that offer panoramic ridgeviews withoutoverwhelming difficulty.Shorter paths, such as those in White Memorial Conservation Center,provideaccessiblewalksthroughmeadows, wetlands,anddenseforestalivewithcolor.

Waterwaysalsoplayastarringrole.TheHousatonic River,framedbyflaminghillsides,isamagnetfor kayakersandfly-fisherswhodon’tmindacrispbite inthe air.Lakes likeWaramaug becomemirrors forthechangingleaves,creatingscenesthatdraw paintersandphotographersyearafteryear.Evena casualroadsidepicniccanfeelextraordinarywhen surroundedbysuchscenery.

Fall here is not just about what you see, but also what you taste. Roadside farm stands brim with fresh cider, heirloom apples, and still-warm pies. Small family-owned restaurants lean into the season with hearty soups andfarm-to-tablecomfortfood.Wineriestuckedintohillsidespour glassesoflocallymadevintages,often withapatioviewofvineyardsglowinginautumnsunlight.

Unlike commercialized tourist centers, the flavors of the Litchfield Hills remain simple and authentic. Visitors mayfindthemselves talkingtothe orchardownerwho grewthefruit orthebaker whopulledthe piefrom theoventhatmorning.Itisthispersonalconnectionthatmakestheseasonherefeelspecial.

��TopScenic Drives in the Litchfield Hills

• Route7nearKent:FollowstheHousatonicRiver withridgeviewsandroadsidefarmstands.

•Route63throughLitchfield:Awindingcorridorof farmland,stonewalls,andhistorichomes.

• Around Lake Waramaug: A loop where fiery hillsides reflectinstillwater.

�� Seasonal Flavors to Try

•Freshappleciderfromroadsideorchards

•Pumpkinbreadandmaplesconesatsmallcafés

•Locallymadewineenjoyedonapatiooverlooking vineyards

• Warm pies pulled from ovens at family-run bakeries

�� Best Fall Walks&Hikes

•WhiteMemorialConservationCenter:Easytrails throughwetlandsandmeadowsalivewithcolor.

• Mohawk Mountain: A brisk climb for sweeping ridge viewsatpeakseason.

• AppalachianTrailSegment:Moderatepathsthat deliverbigscenerywithoutheavycrowds.

�� Quick Tipsfor Visitors

• BestTime:Mid-Octoberfor peakcolor,but late season offers golden copper tones into November.

• Pack Layers: Mornings can be crisp while afternoons warmunderthesun.

• Take It Slow: Narrow country roads are best enjoyed ataleisurelypace.

•BringaCamera:Lakesandriversdoublethecolor showwithmirroredreflections.

Why

“Thecolorsrivalanyin NewEngland,yetthe experiencefeelsmore grounded,morelocal, andperhapseven moregenuine.”

Ina regionwhere fallfoliage isbig business,the LitchfieldHillsstandoutnotfortheirscale,butfor theirintimacy.Here,travelerscanwanderwithout crowds, stumble upon quiet trails, and discover towns wheretimefeelsslower.Thecolorsrivalanyin New England,yettheexperiencefeelsmoregrounded, morelocal,andperhapsevenmoregenuine.

For those seeking a fall escape that combines brilliantscenerywithaquieterpace,northwestern Connecticutoffersadestinationworthdiscovering. TheLitchfield Hillsremind usthat autumnis notjust aboutseeing theleaves change— it’sabout pausing longenoughtolettheseasonsinkin.

��HiddenPumpkin PatchesWorthaRoadTrip �� Lists & Quick Guides: 10 Best Apple Orchards in theU.S.

There’ssomething magicalabout wanderingthrough apumpkin patch onacrispautumnafternoon.Whilemanypeopleflocktowell-known farms, the real charm lies in hidden, family-run pumpkin patches across theU.S. Thesespots offermore thanjust pumpkins—theydeliver hayrides,applecider,cornmazes,andthatnostalgicfallfeelingthat makestheseasonunforgettable.

5 Road-TripWorthyHidden Patches

1. Roloff Farms Helvetia,Oregon

Nestled in the countryside outside Portland,thisfarm is famous for its rustic charm and sprawling pumpkin fields,paired with homemadetreats andwagonrides.

2.The Pumpkin Patchon Sauvie Island Portland, Oregon

A quieter, scenic escape just minutes from the city. Visitors love itscorn mazeand panoramic views of Mt.Hood.

3.Barton Hill FarmsBastrop, Texas

A hidden gem along theColorado River. Families enjoy giant pumpkindisplays, live music, and Texas-stylefall festivities.

4. Vala’s Pumpkin PatchGretna, Nebraska

Locals know it as one of the Midwest’s best-kept seasonalsecrets featuring a giant cornmaze,petting zoo,and pumpkin ciderdonuts.

5. Libby’s Pumpkin Patch Libby,Montana

Small but breathtaking, thismountainsurroundedpatch feels like a postcard with its crisp air and goldenfoliage.

Nothingsays falllike acrisp appleplucked straightfrom thetree. Acrossthe U.S.,family-run orchardsinvite visitorstostrollrows oftrees,sipwarm cider,andtakehome basketsofseasonalfruit. Herearetenof the bestorchardswortharoadtripthisautumn:

1. Applecrest Farm Orchards– Hampton Falls,New Hampshire

Theoldestcontinuouslyoperated appleorchardinAmerica,dating backto1913.

2. MaskerOrchards–Warwick,New York

Known for its pick-your-own apples and sweeping views of the Hudson Valley.

4.Sky TopOrchard– Flat 5. Carter Mountain Rock,North Carolina Orchard– Charlottesville, Virginia

Offers mountain views, apple picking, and fresh fried apple cider doughnuts.

Famousfor panoramicBlue Ridge viewsandhardcidertastings.

3.Honey PotHill Orchards–Stow, Massachusetts

A classic New England orchard featuringhayrides,hedgemazes, andciderdonuts.

6.MercierOrchards–BlueRidge,Georgia

A Southern staple, offering over 50 applevarietiesandfresh bakery pies.

Pro Tip

Arriveearly forthe bestselection andbring acamerathebackdropsathiddenpatches areoftenthemostphotogenic.

“Sometimesthebestpumpkinsarefound off thebeatenpath.”

7. Eckert’sOrchards–Belleville,Illinois

8.Door CreekOrchard –CottageGrove, Wisconsin

9.Kiyokawa Family Orchards– Parkdale, Oregon

AMidwest favoritewhere families have picked apples for generations. Organic-focused, with heirloom applevarietiesandrusticcharm. At the foot of Mt. Hood, this orchard pairs stunning scenery with dozens ofapplevarieties.

10.BelleWood Acres–Lynden, Washington

WashingtonState’s pride,offering apples,pumpkin patches,and a farmdistillery.

“Aroadtriptoan orchardisfall’s sweetesttradition.”

HauntedHighways

Ghostly Roads,Small-Town Legends, and America’s SpookySidefor Fall2025

When the nights grow long and the wind whispers through bare trees, America’s forgotten roads and small towns come alive with ghost storiesoldenoughtorattleyour bones.Beneaththeneonglowof truckstopsand thefadedsigns of

roadsidemotels,shadowslinger wherethepastrefusestorest.

Frommisty mountainpasses to lonely highways that seem to stretch forever, the USA is rich with placeswherelegendsandreality

Route 66:TheMother Road’s DarkerMiles

Route66,America’smosticonicroadtriproute,has seenmore thanits shareof ghoststories. Stretching fromChicagotoSantaMonica,thishistorichighway isdottedwithghosttowns,abandonedmotels,and tales of travelers who never made it to the end. Near Flagstaff,Arizona,driverswhisperaboutaphantom hitchhiker—ayoungwomaninawhitedresswho appearsontheshoulderonmoonlessnights.Pull overtoofferheraride,theysay,andshevanishes beforeyoucanopenthedoor.Someswearthey’ve seenherdriftingthrough theoldstoneruins ofTwo Guns,anabandonedtradingpostnowclaimedby coyotesandtime.

blur.This fall,for travelerscraving somethingalittleeerie,America’s hauntedhighwaysandbackroads offeraglimpseintothecountry’s darker,strangerside—ifyou’re braveenoughtotakethedrive.

TheDead-End Roads ofSmall-Town Appalachia

Beyondthemainhighways,Appalachiaisthickwith forgottentownsandchillingfolklore.Tuckedinthe hills of West Virginia, the ghost of the “Mothman” still hauntsPointPleasant,asmallriversidetownwhere sightingsof awinged creaturewith glowingred eyes terrifiedlocals inthe 1960s.Today, visitorscome for the legend — and some swear the creature still lurks inthemistyhollowsneartheoldTNTareawhereit wasfirstseen.

Afewstatessouth, Kentucky’sbackroadstellstories ofthe“BluegrassGhostBride”—aspectralwoman saidtoappear alongwindingcountry lanesnearold familycemeteries.She’slookingforherlostgroom, theysay,andifyouseeherinyourheadlightsona foggynight,you’llneverforgetit.

Deep in the woods of northern New Jersey lies Clinton Road,anarrow,twistingstretchthatlocalsinsistis the most haunted road in America. Stories swirl about ghostly children who toss coins back if you throw one intothedarkwatersbelowthe“GhostBoyBridge.” Visitors report phantom trucks with glaring headlights thattailgateformilesbeforedisappearingintothe night. And if you wander too far into the surrounding forest? Some say you might find strange stone circles orhearchantingthathasnoearthlysource.It’sthe kind of place you visit once and talk about for years.

Route 666:TheDevil’sHighway

Nolistof hauntedhighwaysis completewithoutthe infamous Route 666 now renamed U.S. Route 491 —thatcutsthroughthehighdesertofNewMexico and Utah. Long-haul truckers and desert travelers still whisper about “Satan’s Highway,” where ghostly semitrucksappearoutofnowhereandshadowyfigures dart across the asphalt just out of reach. Some claim blackdogsstalktravelersatnight,badomensthat followunluckydriversformiles.Thoughthename haschanged,thelegendslinger,carriedbydesert windsandlonelymiles.

A Road Trip for the Brave

Haunted highways and small-town legends are more thanghost stories— they’reechoes ofAmerica’s restlesspast.Theyremindusthateveninacountry definedbywide-openroadsandendlesshorizons, someplacesarebetterleftunexploredafterdark.

This fall, for travelers drawn to the thrill of the unknown, take the backroads, roll down the windows, andlistenforthestoriescarriedonthewind.Who knowswhatyoumightsee intherearviewmirror— orwhomightbewaitingatthenextbend. Sopack aflashlight, fuelup, andfollow theroad into America’s haunted heart. Just be sure to leave a porch light on for when you find your way back — if you do.

HolidayHot Spots

The season of sparkle and celebration ishere,andwithitcomesaworld of destinations that shine a little brighter. From twinkling main streets draped in lights to cozy towns hosting festive parades and holiday markets, “HolidayHot Spots”highlights the placeswheretraditionscomealive.

These are the destinations that

wrap visitors in warmth, wonder, andadash ofmagic—makingevery getawayfeellikesteppingintothe heartoftheholidays.

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Grapevine, Texas

NinetyDays of PureHoliday Magic

ByExploreUSAMagazine

Holiday TownThat RefusestoHurry

Sometownscelebratetheholidays.Grapevine,Texas,livesthem. FromOctober6,2025,throughJanuary6,2026,thisvintageTexascommunityonthedoorstepofDallas–FortWorthInternationalAirportbecomesastagesetfortheentireholidayseason.TheStateofTexashas crownedittheChristmasCapitalofTexas®,andwithgoodreason:morethan1,400eventsunfoldacross 40festivedays,layeredontopofanOctoberfilledwithpumpkins,costumes,andhauntedfun.

Every street glows, every storefront shines, and every train whistle signals that another chapter of Grapevine’s storybookholidayseasonisabouttobegin.

“InGrapevine,even Halloweenridesthe rails.”

��

The Magic ofthe Rails

�� SpookyBeginnings:October on the Rails

OctoberisGrapevine’sprologueamonth whenspookyfuntakesover beforeSantastealstheshow.

AttheheartofthecelebrationaretheGrapevineVintageRailroad’s Halloweenrides.

•Trick’r TreatTrains (October25–26) turnhistoric coachesinto rolling costumeparades,withcandystations,ghoststories,andplentyof laughter.

• TheWitches’BrewTrain(October31)isstrictlyforgrown-ups,with Texas craft beers, eerie entertainment, and a haunted depot walk that makesHalloweennightunforgettable.

Allacrosstown,pumpkinslineMainStreet, GreatWolfLodgehostsits month-longHowl-O-Ween,and communitytrunk-or-treatnights bring neighbors together. Grapevine starts the holidays with a wink, a shiver, andawholelotoffun.

AsOctoberfades,thetrainsdon’tstoptheysimply transform.In Grapevine,the railsare morethan transportation. They’re the heartbeat of the holidays.

�� Santa’sNorth Pole Express®

Climb aboard the North Pole Express and step straightintoaChristmasfairytale. Vintagecoaches,strungwithgarlandandtwinkling lights,carry familiesthrough ajourney ofmusic, storytelling,andwide-eyedwonder.Cheerfulelves handout souvenirmugs filledwithFrosty Chocolate SnowMilk,whilecarolersmovethroughtheaisles.

Children clutch their golden tickets tightly, eyes sparklingasthetrainslowsforthebigmoment:the glowing North Pole, where Santa and Mrs. Claus make theirgrandentrance.

The ride is short about 45 minutes but the memories last forever. Tickets (on sale October 1) sell out within days.

�� The Christmas Wine Train

While children dream of Santa, adults dream of clinking glasses on the Christmas Wine Train. On select nightsbeginningNovember21,thevintagecoaches become a moving tasting room. Passengers sip Texaswines,sample holidaytreats,and soakuplive entertainmentunderthesoftglowofholidaylights. It’s festive, romantic, and distinctly Texan the perfect toasttotheseason.

“It’snotjustatrainride.It’sajourneyintoChristmasmagic.”

�� MoreHolidayJourneys

Evenafter ChristmasDay, thetrains keeprolling throughDecember30,offeringfamiliesandfriends onelastchancetosavorthemagicbeforetheNew Year.

Sidebar:TipsforRidingtheTrains

• Buy early: Tickets for the North Pole Express release October1at10a.m.

• Dressthepart:PajamasandChristmassweaters makethebestphotos.

• Arrive early: The depot itself is decorated and perfectforsnapshots.

•Save your mug: Souvenir cups from the North Pole Expresshavebecomecollectibles.

�� A City in FullCostume

Everywhereyoulook,Grapevinedressesthepart.

• Grapevine Christmas Market & Village line the streetswithartisansandfoodtrucks.

•Toyland&HometownChristmascreatewhimsical photobackdrops.

• ICE!at Gaylord Texan Resort turns two million poundsoficeintolarger-than-lifesculptures.

•Snowlandat GreatWolf Lodgebrings indoorsnow showersandfamilyactivities.

• Every plaza, every corner, every lamp post becomes aphotoop.

�� MainStreet: A HallmarkScene

When you step onto Grapevine’s Historic Main Street, youstepintoaHallmarkmovie.

Boutiquesoverflowwithholidaytreasures,galleries glow with local art, and restaurants buzz with seasonalflavors.Somehighlights:

• Blow your own glass ornament at Vetro Glassblowing Studio.

• Warmup with gourmet cocoa at Dr. Sue’s Hot ChocolateBar.

•ShareasliceofhomemadepieatJudyPie.

• TrythelegendaryfriedavocadoatEsparza’s,the MargaritaCapitalofTexas.

•Pair cookies and Texas wines at Winestein’s Tasting Room.

AnchoringitallisthePeacePlazaIceRink,circling beneatha60-footliveChristmastree—asightso grand,locals callit theRockefeller Centerof the Southwest.

�� WhentheSkyJoinstheShow

•Carol of Lights (November 24) launches the season withfireworksandSanta’sarrival.

• Parade of Lights (December 4) is the largest illuminatedparadeinNorthTexas.

• Merry&BrightDroneShows(December1and8) send400synchronizeddronesdancingacrossthe Grapevinesky.

�� Music, Movies& VictorianMemories

InsidetheHistoricPalaceTheatre,holidayfilmsflickeronthebigscreenWhiteChristmas,It’saWonderful Life,andmorewhileliveconcertsandstageshowskeepspiritssoaring.

At Nash Farm, families step back into the 1800s to experience a Victorian Christmas, complete with costumed guides,simpledecorations,andtimelessholidaytraditions.

�� HolidayTimeline

•Oct6–24:Falldécorandpumpkinseason.

•Oct25–26:Trick’rTreatTrains.

•Oct31:Witches’BrewTrain.

•Nov21:ChristmasWineTrainbegins.

•Nov24:CarolofLights,officialkickoff.

•Nov24–Jan5:Morethan1,400holidayevents.

•Dec1&8:Merry&BrightDroneShows.

•Dec4:ParadeofLights.

•ThroughDec30:Santa’sNorthPoleExpress.

•Jan6:Theseasonends.

FinalThoughts

✨ WhyGrapevine

Belongson Your List

• OfficialTitle:Christmas Capital ofTexas®.

•Scale: Over 1,400 holiday events.

•Charm:Vintagetownthatglows likeastorybook.

• Convenience: Minutes from DFW Airportwithfreeshuttles.

•Atmosphere:Frompumpkinsto peppermint,it’snonstopmagic.

InGrapevine,theholidaysaren’trushed.They’recelebrated,savored, and shared from the spooky fun of October to the sparkling magic of Christmas and New Year’s. Whether you’re sipping cocoa with Santa on theNorthPole Express®orraising aglassof winewithfriends aboard theChristmas WineTrain, thejourney alwaysends thesame way:with memoriesworthkeepingforever.

��HolidayHotSpots AcrossAmerica

“Leavenworthdoesn’tjustdecoratefor theseasonitbecomestheseason.”

Theholidayseasonisaboutmorethandecorationsit’saboutplacesthatsparklewithtradition,warmth, andwintermagic.Fromsmalltownsdrapedinlightstocoastalescapesthattradesnowforsunshine,the U.S.isfilledwithdestinationsthatglowbrighterduringtheholidays.Hereareafewthatbelongonevery traveler’slist.

✨ Leavenworth, Washington– A BavarianSnowGlobe

TuckedintotheCascadeMountains,Leavenworth feelslikeaGermanvillagerebornintheAmerican Northwest. When December arrives, the streets glitterunderahalf-millionlights,andtheChristmas Lighting Festival draws families for carols, cocoa, and horse-drawnsleighrides.Visitorswanderbetween bakeriesservingspicedstollenbreadandmarkets filledwithhandmadeornaments.

Foraholidayexperience withculturalflair,Santa Felightsupwith luminarias—paperlanternsglowingalongadobewallsandhistoric streets.CanyonRoad’s ChristmasEvewalk isahighlight, asthousands gatherbycandlelight,musicfillsthenight,andhotchilestewkeeps thecoldatbay.Here,theholidaysblendtradition,art,andwarmthin unforgettablefashion.

�� St. Augustine, Florida–Nights of Lights

Not all holiday hot spots are snowy. America’s oldest cityturnstropicalstreetsintoaseaofwhitelights duringitsfamous NightsofLights celebration.From NovemberthroughJanuary,millions oftinybulbs shimmer on palm trees, historic buildings, and waterfront walkways. Visitors can take in the view by trolley,boat,orsimplystrollingcobblestonelanes.

�� Nashville, Tennessee– A Country Christmas �� Frankenmuth,Michigan–

Christmas All Year

Nicknamed “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth takesholidaycheerseriously.Home toBronner’s, theworld’slargestChristmasstore,itoffersmore ornaments and lights than you could imagine. Winter visitors stroll through streets lined with German-style chalets, enjoy hearty Bavarian meals, and soak in the glowofsmall-townholidayspirit.

Tip:Don’tmissa horse-drawncarriage ridedownMainStreet whenit’sblanketedin snow.

MusicCity embraces theholidays withSouthern charm.At theGaylord OprylandResort, nearlythree millionlights,themeddisplays,andice sculptures wow visitors. Downtown, honky-tonks mix live countrytunes withholiday cheer,while nearbyBelle Meade Plantation decks its halls in Victorian splendor. Nashville proves that holiday spirit comes with a little rhythm,too.

WhyThese PlacesShine

Whattiesthesedestinationstogetherisnotsizeor fame,butatmosphere.Eachonecreatesaholiday scenethatfeelsimmersive—whetherit’sBavarian lights in the mountains, lanterns glowing in the desert,orpalm-linedstreetstwinklingby thesea. Theyareremindersthattheholidaysaren’tjusta dateonthecalendar; they’reafeeling,and these spotscaptureitbeautifully.

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AboutJamie

There are so many qualities and skills that make me the best real estate professionalIcanbeformyclients.Theyincludeintegrity,knowledge ofthecurrentmarket,effectivenegotiationskills,passiontoassistmy clients,andtopnotchvendorstomakeeverydealsuccessful.

That said, after 19+ years as a Real Estate Professional, I have found the verybestserviceisessentiallyaboutputtingclientsfirst.ImakesureI amaccessible,agoodcommunicator,andagoodlistener.Istayupto dateon allof thenewest technologyas wellas Icontinually updatemy educationsomyclientsalwaysgetthebestservice.

Livingin theTampa Bayarea forover 30years hasgiven methe knowledgetohelpanyclientthatisrelocatingfromanotherareaor simplymovingacrossthebay.

About Anthony

I’mdedicatedtohelpingmyclients findthehomeoftheirdreams. Whetheryouarebuyingorsellingahomeorjustcuriousaboutthe localmarket,Iwouldlovetooffermysupportandservices.

I know the local communityboth as an agent and a neighborand can helpguideyouthroughthenuancesofourlocalmarket.Withaccess totop listings,exceptional marketingstrategies, andcutting-edge technology, I work hard to make your real estate experience memorable andenjoyable.

HappyHolidays from ExploreUSA Magazine

As another year ofadventurecomestoaclose, all of usat ExploreUSA Magazinewant tothank youfor beingpart ofour journey. Fromcoast tocoast, we’ve sharedthestories, sights, and small-town wondersthatmake America shine— andwe can’twait to explore evenmore with you inthe yearahead.

May your holidaysbe filledwith warmth, joy, and the spirit of discovery.Here’s tonewadventures, cozy getaways, and unforgettablememories in every season.

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WinterIssueSneakPeek

WinterIssueon sale Monday, February2ndthrough Monday, April 27th