Ready to forgo normal weekend plans for some out-of-town adventures? We thought so. Put on your shades, load up the car and get ready to hit the road because we have the inside scoop on four action-packed getaways that will have you saying “Buh bye, NoVA!” “Hello, vacay!”
By Lorin Drinkard
Courtesy of Garrett County Chamber of Commerce
Deep Creek
15 Visitors Center Drive, McHenry, MD 21541; 301-387-4386; www.visitdeepcreek.com
From whitewater rafting, boating and go kart rides to biking, kayaking and horse-drawn carriage rides, outdoor activities are in no short supply in Garrett County, Md. Stop by Bill’s Outdoor Center or one of the several local outfitters for a large selection of bait and tackle before hitting the open water. Enjoy regional delicacies at FireFly Farms Creamery and Market, where award-winning cheese is handcrafted daily. Head to the Funland Family Fun Center for activities all ages will enjoy—bumper cards, climbing walls, miniature golf and more. And unwind after a long day out by the lake at Haley Farm B&B for an array of spa services: hot stones massage, reflexology, facial and herbal wraps. Located on a sprawling 65-acre farm, the B&B offers complete relaxation.
The Homestead
7696 Sam Snead Highway, Hot Springs, VA 24445; 540-839-1766; www.thehomestead.com
Located in Hot Springs, the Homestead gives off a oh-so-cozy vibes.
Guest accommodations include 438 distinctive rooms and suites, each including WiFi, flat-screen TVs and down pillows, plus some suites feature Old South touches (sun porches and working fireplaces). Customize your stay by selecting one of the many packages offered: the Experience Package where you will spend your time skeet shooting, horseback riding and more, or check out The Homestead’s his-and-her package options: an afternoon of golf or spa your way.
Dining at The Homestead includes everything from casual lunch spots to a grand dining room with ballroom dancing. After eating a bite, take in the splendor of the Allegheny Mountains, the spot on which the resort was built around in 1766. Go for a dip in the famous healing waters of the Jefferson Pools, and follow in the long line of Homestead tradition before you.
Courtesy of Lynchburg Museum System
Lynchburg
2015 Memorial Ave., Lynchburg, VA 24501; 434-845-5968; www.discoverlynchburg.com
Nestled along the banks of the James River, discover all that Lynchburg has to offer—entertainment, historical hot spots, delicious cuisine and more. Stop by the Academy of Fine Arts for an afternoon show: jazz, opera, magic, and improv competitions are held in the newly restored 1905 arts center.
Soak in the rich history of the city at The Lynchburg Museum at the Old Court House. With exhibits featuring military items, costumes and sports memorabilia, the museum is a step back in time to discover the people and events that shaped the region.
Foodies will delight in the range of dining options. For a classic surf-and-turf meal, visit Charley’s, which was started in 1980 by former MLB player Charley Sands. At the Texas Inn, order signature dish, a Cheesy Western—hamburger smothered in cheese, topped with fried egg and a secret mustard relish. The city’s scenic backdrop and vibrant leisure spots make an ideal weekend escape.
Courtesy of Laurel Highlands
Laurel Highlands
120 E. Main St., Ligonier, PA 15658; 724-238-5661; www.laurelhighlands.org
Laurel Highlands is as fascinating and lively as it is beautiful. Tour renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s structural masterpiece, Fallingwater, and gain a sense of appreciation for his ingenious design. Art lovers won’t want to miss out on the many museums Laurel Highlands has to offer. Dubbed “one of the best local history museums in the country,” the Johnstown Flood Museum uncovers the shocking tale behind the 1899 flood.
Embrace the outdoors by renting bikes and hitting the Great Allegheny Passage. The Bike Shop at Rockwood Trail House offers youth and adult bikes perfect for hitting the 204-mile, motor-free trail that winds through the Pennsylvania riverside. Or head underground to the Laurel Caverns, featuring over three miles of natural passages. Whether you explore throughout or even rappel from 45 feet, the history and natural beauty in Laurel Highlands is waiting to be uncovered.
(May 2012)