#best wine tours in fredericksburg

[texastipsytoursposts]

Texas Tipsy Tours is a luxury transportation service specializing in Texas Hill Country tours to Central Texas wineries, breweries, and distilleries. We service Austin and the Texas Hill Country. Here at Texas wine Tours, we love to celebrate and are committed to providing a curated experience for you!

[realtorjamier]

Things to do in September Around the Area

September in our area is the perfect time of the year to enjoy outdoor events. The weather tends to be mild with the emergence of early autumn. Fall festivals are full of farmers’ and vintners’ agricultural offerings, as well as artists’ and musicians’ creative works. Take a look at this sampling of experiences in the D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia area.

DC JazzFest

Aug. 30 through Sept. 3 The Wharf 1001 7th Street SW Washington, DC

Originally dubbed the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival in 2005, the DC Jazz Festival features acclaimed and emerging artists and provides a rich education component for young and old alike. The festival presents free and affordably-priced performances and education programs serving a diverse populace. 

Patsy Cline Block Party

Sept. 2 Patsy Cline Historic House 608 South Kent St. Winchester, VA

Celebrate Patsy Cline’s birthday in her hometown with live music, tours of her childhood home, food, and educational exhibits. The Patsy Cline Historic House stands as an icon for Patsy Cline fans and admirers hoping to know first hand the story of Patsy’s early years and offering insight into the famed singer’s early road to stardom. Parking and free shuttle rides are available from the Winchester-Frederick County Visitor Center on 1400 S. Pleasant Valley Road and will run continuously throughout the day. 

Virginia Scottish Games

Sept. 2 through Sept. 3 Great Meadow 5089 Old Tavern Road The Plains, VA 

Experience the sounds and influences of Scotland through live music, dance, and athletic competitions at the 49th Virginia Scottish Games. Eat haggis, meat pies, Scotch eggs, and drink whisky. Research your own Scottish roots by meeting other folks with Scottish heritage. 

Labor Day Art Show

Sept. 2 through Sept. 4 Glen Echo Park 7300 MacArthur Blvd.    Glen Echo, MD

Presented by the Glen Echo Park Partnership for Arts and Culture, this exhibition and sale is one of the largest art shows in the area. Admission is free, and the exhibition features the work of more than 200 artists from the mid-Atlantic region. The wide range of artistic media includes sculpture, painting, ceramics, glass, jewelry, fiber arts, photography, furniture, and works on paper.

Maryland Cider Festival

Sept. 9 Two Story Chimney Ciderworks 115 Damascus Road Gaithersburg, MD

Drink apples, listen to music, eat food, and visit craft vendors. The Maryland Cider Festival will feature ten local cideries showcasing their best hard ciders – some dry, some sweet, still or sparkling, modern to heritage. It will be a great way to enjoy a fall day.

The Great Frederick Fair

Sept. 15 through Sept. 23 Frederick Fairgrounds 797 E. Patrick St. Frederick, MD

“Cowboy Boots and Down Home Roots” – The Great Frederick Fair’s celebration of agriculture is unmatched. Gate admission includes tons to see and do for kids and grownups: a cowboy circus, a farm animal birthing center, comedy shows, traditional agriculture exhibits, musical acts, magic, and more. Carnival rides and games will also be available with the purchase of a wristband or individual tickets.

Wild Roots Music Festival

Sept. 16 Wilderness Presidential Resort 9220 Plank Rd. Spotsylvania, VA

Located just west of Fredericksburg, the Wilderness Presidential Resort is hosting the Wild Roots Music Festival featuring regionally and nationally known bands and musicians. Family friendly music, games, and vendors will keep every generation entertained in a spectacular lakeside setting.

Bluemont Fair

Sept. 16 through Sept. 17 33846 Snickersville Turnpike Bluemont, VA

Meander through the 200-year-old village of Bluemont nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The 53rd annual Bluemont Fair features artisan crafts, local wine, beer, and music. Experience the history of the area including an archaeology demonstration. Children under 9 are free and can enjoy games and a petting zoo.

Mountain Heritage Arts and Crafts Festival

Sept. 22 through Sept. 24 Jefferson County Fairgrounds 1707 Old Leetown Pike Kearneysville, WV

Wander through the tents, buildings, and pavilions in the rolling countryside of Jefferson County, W.Va., and admire the crafts and fine arts of approximately 180 quality juried artists/crafters from over 20 states who will demonstrate their creative works. Bluegrass bands, kids activities, craft beer and local wine, food trucks, and more. 

Apple Festival

Sept. 30 Loudoun Heritage Farm Museum 21668 Heritage Farm Lane Sterling, VA

Watch how cider is pressed and enjoy hard cider, beer, and wine. Kids will have fun with apple games and a moon bounce. What else? Live music and food trucks.

Manassas Latino Festival

Sept. 30 9201 Center St. Manassas, VA

This annual event has live music, dance performances, diverse foods, and fun activities for the entire family, all in celebration of the cultural heritage and contributions of the Latin American community.  The Manassas Latino Festival is a project of Abriendo Puertas, whose mission is to empower the Latino community to integrate, thrive, and fully participate in building a stronger, just and inclusive society for all.

[absolutecharmwinetours-blog]

[swordofazrael1992]

i havent ever really interacted w the rwrb fandom but im nostalgic today so here are places that i think alex takes henry to in texas, in no particular order

buc-ees

torchy's tacos

the hill country (they probably go on some boring wine tour or smth) (he also takes him there when it's peach season, there's this one shop on the side of the road, pretty much in the middle of nowhere, that has the BEST peach ice cream. its to die for)

fredericksburg (okay fredericksburg is special to me bc my grandparents have a ranch there we visited pretty often and my family moved a lot so thats the place that has been my only consistent home, but it is literally SO beautiful if u are ever in texas, do urself a favor and visit)

luckenbach barbeque

any and every tex mex restaraunt

the pearl district in san antonio

it doesnt matter what restaraunt, but alex DEFINITELY makes henry try chicken fried steak and/or chicken fried chicken. henry thinks alex is being dramatic bc he's waxing poetic abt how good it is and then he tries it and is like oh

WHATABURGER HE TAKES HIM TO WHATABURGER

jason's deli. the food is absolutely DISGUSTING but its all about the free soft serve ice cream you get, bro

shipley's do-nuts. enough said

the kolache factory (ellen used to go on runs in the morning and on her way back she would grab kolaches for everyone. it became a weekend tradition)

okay. i know alex didnt grow up in houston and therefore probably wouldnt know abt these things but I Dont Care

lights in the heights

also the street art in houston... its so fuckn cool dude

THE HOUSTON RODEO..........

RICE VILLAGE........

they go to the houston childrens museum (ITS FUN OKAY)

OH MAN IN THIS ONE MUSEUM ( I THINK ITS THE MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE) THERES THIS BUTTERFLY CENTER AND ITS SO FUCKING COOL ONCE I WENT THERE AND THIS ONE LADY WAS WEARING PERFUME THAT THE BUTTERFLIES APPARENTLY REALLY LIKED AND SO THEY KEPT LANDING ON HER AND SHE WAS COVERED IN THEM IT WAS SO COOL

the miller outdoor theatre.....

they go to galveston but only for pleasure pier. galveston is fucking disgusting, dont ever go unless you want to see dead fish everywhere on the beach

im not exaggerating how gross galveston is there is a clear line between brown water and blue water. you want to know where that line is? its the point people arent allowed to swim past do not go there

i havent been to underbelly since before they closed and did something new w it but. they go to underbelly

[sanantonionetworkinggroup-blog]

Day Trips & Excursions In San Antonio‎ TX

Tаѕtе of Frеdеrісkѕburg Wine Tоur

Exрlоrіng Texas' wіnе соuntrу in and around Frеdеrісkѕburg in a day frоm Sаn Antоnіо іѕ bеѕt dоnе оn a tour—you’ll еlіmіnаtе any wоrrіеѕ аbоut nаvіgаtіоn оr drіvіng аftеr tаѕtіngѕ; аnd bеnеfіt frоm еxtrа іnѕіght frоm a guіdе. Thіѕ ѕmаll-grоuр tour mаkеѕ еvеrуthіng еаѕу аnd соnvеnіеnt; wіth a tour аnd tаѕtіngѕ аt wіnеrіеѕ, рluѕ frее time in Frеdеrісkѕburg to ѕtrоll, ѕhор, and еnjоу mоrе tаѕtіngѕ аnd lunch (own cost). 

Tеxаѕ Hіll Cоuntrу аnd LBJ Ranch Tоur wіth Wіnе Tаѕtіng Oрtіоnѕ 

Making аll thе stops on thіѕ Tеxаѕ Hill Cоuntrу and LBJ Ranch tour wоuld require renting a car, іf уоu wеrе рlаnn��ng your оwn trір. Avoid the hassle of car rеntаl and driving on this tоur thаt tаkеѕ you to Lyndon B. Jоhnѕоn Nаtіоnаl Historical Pаrk, a Texas Hіll Cоuntrу winery, аnd thе German-influenced city of Fredericksburg. Pluѕ, wіth guided аnd frее-tіmе роrtіоnѕ, уоu get thе best оf both worlds. 

Hіll Cоuntrу & Frеdеrісkѕburg Excursion

Let a guіdе аrrаngе trаnѕроrt frоm Sаn Antоnіо to Frеdеrісkѕburg, a ԛuаіnt tоwn with hіѕtоrісаl Gеrmаn rооtѕ. Yоu’ll tаkе a ѕсеnіс drіvе into thе Tеxаѕ Hill Cоuntrу іn the аіr-соndіtіоnеd соmfоrt of a mіnіvаn. On arrival, еnjоу free time tо explore thе shops, museums, wіnе tаѕtіng rооmѕ, аnd local rеѕtаurаntѕ аѕ you ѕtrоll around town. 

If уоu аrе searching fоr  Top CBD Stоrе іn Sаn Antonio, thе right fіrm to соntасt іѕ Mаrу Jane’s CBD Dіѕреnѕаrу - Smоkе & Vape Shор Evаnѕ Rоаd whісh wіll оffеr уоu the best CBD рrоduсtѕ. It іѕ a key mеmbеr of Sаn Antоnіо Nеtwоrkіng Grоuр whісh is a grоuр thаt specializes in the sale оf High ԛuаlіtу CBD оіl products thаt hаvе bееn thоrоughlу lab tеѕtеd аnd mееt оur hіgh ѕtаndаrdѕ of quality.

Map Driving Direction: https://goo.gl/maps/DwZiwtbtXfWxtmnF8

[theoasislab-blog]

Welcome to the Texas Wine Country Tours!!

Every human has a story and we also have a story to take you to the land of fairytale in your own fairy world. The Texas Wine Country Tours have an exceptional quality inside them that can enhance the quality of the tours in the most appropriate manner at affordable rates. This unique path can help you open various absolute unique wine tours in the coming years.

[travelrpro]

11 Best Wine Tours In Fredericksburg Texas

11 Best Wine Tours In Fredericksburg Texas

Fredericksburg is located in the Texas Hill Country and is home to many wineries and vineyards. If you are looking for a fun day trip, consider taking a Fredericksburg wine tour. Many companies offer wine tours, most of which will pick you up from your hotel or downtown Fredericksburg. You can choose from a variety of tours, which will take you to different Hill country wineries and vineyards.…

[schmidtchristmasmarket]

Schmidt Christmas Market is excited to bring you another one of our wintertime features detailing all of the exciting places you could see around the world over Christmas. Today we will be talking all about one of our favorite Eastern European cities, Copenhagen. This is a town older than the United States itself with plenty of history to show for it. So let's get started. Sign up to get our blog in a weekly email

Top 10 Christmas Activities In Copenhagen For Guests To The City

Schmidt Christmas Market has scoured through all of the available attractions within Copenhagen and narrowed it down to the top 10. Hopefully, this is a short enough list that you'll be able to knock every single one of them out before you go home if you decide to go and visit Copenhagen this year. Even if you don't, it will be a lot of fun trying.

1. Check Out The Julemarked At Tivoli Gardens

Christmas Decor galore is found at one of the most impressive outdoor gardens in the world. While the theme parks section is only open in the summery months of the year, the location is still popular when the rides are closed. That is thanks to the prolific abundance of outdoor Christmas markets. Vendors will line up their stalls all around the square, where you are able to bargain with them and hopefully find some new Christmas decorations. It's one of the best ways to get hands on experience with the culture of the people of Copenhagen yourself. It is hard to beat it this time of year.

2. Go And Visit Hotel D'angleterre & Magasin Du Nord

If you are as obsessed with the best Christmas Decorations as we are here, then you will absolutely die when you catch a glimpse of this magnificent hotel. While the actual cost of staying at the hotel can be quite pricey, their brilliant Christmas Decor display each year has become a tradition for even natives of the area to go and see. You simply do not catch this kind of glamour in most areas of the world, even when it is Christmas time. If you happen to have the money, it is also one of the most phenomenal places you could stay while in Copenhagen over the holidays.

3. Test Your Skills On The Ice At Frederiksberg Runddel

A lot of people have never gotten the chance to try ice-skating. Well, while you are in Copenhagen, whether you have tried it in the past were not, you must go to the Fredericksburg ice-skating rink. It is one of the most popular areas in the city. Fredericksburg is technically a tiny community within Copenhagen that is its own city. The ice-skating rink has skate rentals, for you do not need to bring your own ice skates. Make sure you get there before the sun sets if you still want some daylight while you are skating. Otherwise, once it hits 4 o'clock, you will get the option to use the light of the Christmas décor that is abundantly spread throughout the park.

4. Copenhagen Christmas Food Walking Tour

Copenhagen has a ton of guided tours available. One of the best Christmas-themed tours you can check out while you are in the city is the Christmas Food walking tour. Denmark is considered to be one of the world's foodie capitals and has a long history of culinary traditions. This store is located in the most popular food market of Copenhagen, Torvehallerne. Throughout the experience, you will taste everything from candy to sausage and even wine.

5. Copenhagen's Christmas Spirit By: Ourway Tours In Copenhagen

This is not a specific section of the city but rather the entire city itself. Christmas Décor is thrown up all over the entire area every year over the holidays. This tour brings you through nine of the most popular spots found within the Danish capital and drops you off at King's Garden. Throughout the experience, you will learn some of the histories of the city and check out all of the beautiful new decorations thrown up in the holiday spirit.

6. Denmark's Forest Tower

The Forest Tower is one of the most famous attractions within the entire country of Denmark. It is located within one of the world's densest forests and has been rated by Times Magazine as one of the world's greatest places to visit. There are tour groups that leave the city of Copenhagen daily to go visit the Forest Tower. It is located just outside of the city limits and is perfect for when you feel like escaping the city life for a few hours. At the top of the Forest Tower, you will be greeted by one of Denmark's most magnificent vistas. It is the perfect getaway for the nature lover that wants to travel over Christmas.

7. Magic Christmas Tour In Copenhagen By: Fun Top Fun Denmark

Christmas Decorations seem to be very popular throughout Copenhagen's city if you judge by all of the guided tours that show them off. This is another guided tour definitely worth checking out only available over the holidays. You will be given a professional tour guide who will personally guide you through the most decorated areas of Copenhagen. On the way, they will read the volume with various Christmas stories and tales from the history of Copenhagen. At the end of the trip you'll be at another one of the attractions on our list: the Rosenborg Castle.

8. Conger Rosenborg Castle

Rosenborg Castle is located right in one of the most popular parks in the city: The King's garden. The initial Castle was erected by the Scandinavian King Christian the fourth. It is over 400 years old and has a ton of history. Throughout its halls are numerous treasures that were once adorned by the country's previous monarchs. Inside of the Great Hall can see the coronation drones and three life-size lion statues made entirely of silver. If you've never gotten the chance to see a European Castle that is even older than the United States in person, it is an experience that you cannot miss out on without regretting it later.

9. Learn The History Of Nyhavn

The English translation of the name for this little hamlet is New Harbor. Although the name might try to convince you otherwise, this little port village is quite old with tons of history. Throughout the city, there are canals that fairy passengers throughout the area similar to Venice. While in the past, the area was considered to be hit or miss thanks to the bodacious sailors who used to frequent the bars. Today the area has been restored and is now the most popular tourist attraction in Copenhagen. It's a great place to go and check out, with over 80 different tours available within this tiny area there are more than enough options to keep you busy.

10. Relax And Reflash At Copenhot Saunas

Of course, after checking off all nine of the other attractions we have discussed so far, you must be exhausted. Luckily, Copenhagen is home to some of the world's most famous hot saunas. Scandinavian culture places a lot more value on saunas than most other Western nations. There are plenty of different places that you can choose from within the city limits, but Copenhot is probably the one worth checking out the most. This is not actually located in one place but on top of a boat that cruises through the canals. On top of the boat, there are several different saunas with hot water to relax while you float through the city. Enjoy all the sites, and remember to take some pictures.

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If you are truly adventurous, you can take a dip into the canal's icy cold waters before getting into the sauna. This is a tradition descended from the ancient Vikings, actually.

  Shop Now at Schmidt Christmas Market for all your Christmas Decor.

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[vinewineadventures-blog]

Winery Tours

Vine & Wine Adventures proudly offers the best winery tours in the Fredericksburg area! Our seasoned tour guides are the best in the business and have a very good relationship with the wineries. They will take you to the best wineries with the highest quality wine and they will also give you the best service! Our tour guides will choose the wineries for each group to take advantage of the best winery experiences that are available for that day. We welcome your input and your tour guide will do his best to accommodate your requests. If you would like to select specific wineries for your tour, we can customize a private party tour option for an additional fee. If you would like to learn more about our winery tour company, please contact Vine & Wine Adventures today!

https://www.fredericksburgwinerytours.com

[texastipsytoursposts]

Wine Tour Packages Fredericksburg

Texas Tipsy Tours provides the best wine, beer, and spirits tours throughout the greater Fredericksburg, TX area. Our Fredericksburg wine tour packages are very affordable in price!

[hartmannwinetours-blog]

Brewery Tours

When it comes to beer and beer culture, there is nothing that a beer connoisseur would enjoy more than one of our brewery tours. You can take a group tour with your friends and check out Fredericksburg's best breweries to see where some of your favorite brews are made. For more information about how you can book your tour, please give Hartmann Wine Tours a call today!

https://www.winetoursfredericksburg.com/

[absolutecharmwinetours-blog]

Wine Tours in Fredericksburg TX

It’s time for the customers to go beyond the cellar doors as the Wine Tours in Fredericksburg TX is yet again here to help you discover the characteristics that are unique to each of the wineries. These wine tasting experience at one of the wineries that can range from an intimate tutored guide to meet the winemakers to a perfect wine blending lesson. Our winery tour is going to take you to a better place. You can reveal stories about the families that are behind each winery and this will also involve a scenic regional flight to your dream destinations.

[theolivia0723-blog]

Best Weekend Getaways from Houston to Try Out

There is no doubt that Houston is a great place. Its nearby beaches, stunning green fields, and world-class museums are something which could be a special thing about Houston. There are many things to do, however once in a while its good to explore the nearby places. So, we have some great suggestions for a weekend getaway from Houston which you should consider. If you want to stay there for more then a few days, then it's a great thing to know more about these places. If you are concerned about hotels or flight bookings, then head to Google flights for it. There you can find many cheap hotels deals.

The San Antonio Riverwalk

Houston may be famous as the Bayou city, but there is no way they could compare with San Antonio riverwalk. You will find the riverwalk is lined with scenic stone bridges, lush vegetations, and lively restaurants. Book a room in a hotel which would be along the water’s edge to see the beautiful places from your windows. Only by seeing these sceneries, you could have a relaxing weekend. Dining under the stars, eating along the river, and going to la Villita historic arts are some of the things you could do here. Because of these things it a perfect weekend getaway from Houston. As for cheap hotels, Google flights search is an ideal option to look for.

The wine tasting in Fredericksburg

You will find this little town along the small stretch of highway 290, which is about 80 miles west of Austin. It is too small for being a city; there are only about 12,000 people live here. There are two things you can do here, either book a cheap hotel, stay in it with bed and breakfast. Alternatively, if you are a wine lover, then get a tour operator who can book several vineyards for wine tasting. The wine tasting is something which makes this unique a perfect weekend getaways from Houston.

So, these are the two places we have mentioned. Hope your next weekend will be great. Make sure to book a hotel in advance to avoid any trouble.

Source URL: Click Here

[winefusionwinery-blog]

Beyond Wine: Educational Opportunities at Texas Wineries

Over the past 2 decades, the wine and grape industry has significantly expanded. So much is put into consideration for you to enjoy great wine. From thoughtful growing, careful fruit pairing, to proper ageing. As a result, the need for trained grape growers, wine-makers, and other skilled workers has increased. There is always so much to learn in wineries and tasting.

The best wineries in Texas offer guests various opportunities, to learn about the wine business, wine selection and tasting, and creating a perfect blend. With so much wisdom and knowledge in the region, members and guests get an opportunity to be beneficiaries.

1.    Wine blending classes

You get to experience a wine blending class like none other in Texas. It’s a class that takes about 1.5 hours and provides an opportunity to not only take a taste but make your bottle. Having tasted 100% varietal wines, you get to pick what to use for your master blend, cork your bottle, create your label, and finally take it home with you. In short, you get to learn and enjoy the journey of being a winemaker for a day.

2.    Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau

The center is dedicated to creating awareness and comprehension of the Texas agriculture, wine and food. Wine enthusiasts get to have classes dive into proper wine tasting and food pairings. In the end, you become well-rounded in wine tasting, major wines in the world, and their respective food pairings.   Both locals and visitors get to learn about wine, culinary and hospitality skills.

3.    Enology educational programs

There are no prerequisites to take an enology certificate program. If you want to dive into viticulture, this is the program that will help you better understand grapevines. The concepts of wine production are taught so well in this course. One gets exposed to distinctive landscapes of the major wine areas in Texas.

Texas Tech University (TTU) has a 4 years degree program in Enology and Viticulture due to the growth in the wine clubs in Texas.

4.    Discover the region’s history

Culinary history in Texas is a travel adventure that will give you a rich historical perspective. You get exposed to the evolution of Texas winemaking. It not only provides a chance to discover and explore the origin of the famous grape varietals but sample the culinary delights as well. The newly acquired knowledge will challenge you to develop an appreciation for wholesome eating.

5.    Library passes

Some vineyards have wine libraries that carry so much knowledge of the grapes and different wines. The Becker Vineyard has the Reserve Wine Library that began in 1996 and offers the Cabernet Sauvignon program.

6.    Barrel sampling and tasting

Vineyards offer visitors opportunities to explore the secrets of their handcrafted wines. In most of these vineyards, wine educators lead guest groups in barrel tasting then later to a production facility tour. The event is meant to provide thee enthusiasts with insight into the wine clubs in Texas. For exclusive experiences the number of guests per group is limited but it varies according to the vineyard.

[cathrynstreich]

Beyond Napa—7 Cool Places To Buy A Home If You Love Wine

As the famous Greek playwright Euripides once said…

Where there is no wine, there is no love.

Wine is such an enjoyable substance, and while opening a bottle at home is fun… touring vineyards and whiling away the hours in tasting rooms is much more fun!

If you love wine and you’re in the market for a new place to live, you might instantly think of Northern California. Its famed wine region is world-renowned, after all.

But let’s face it. Napa can be quite expensive, and Sonoma’s not much better.

I mean, if you’re an oenophile and you’ve got 800 grand or more, then, sure, Northern California’s the way to go.

If you want something with just as much charm and a more reasonable price point, though, look no further – here are some ideal cities where you can explore your love of the world’s most delicious grape juice without the painful mortgage payment.

1- Boerne, TX

Boerne is home to just over 16,000 people. This attractive suburb is located right at the entrance to Texas’s Hill Country. If you move to Boerne, you’ll be a hop, skip, and a jump away from the vineyards of Fredericksburg, but still close enough to commute to the thriving city of San Antonio for work.

If you’re a retiree or someone who works from home, check out Fredericksburg itself. This tiny German-influenced town is charming, affordable, and home to lots of scrumptious vino.

Believe it or not, it’s true – there’s great wine in Texas. In the 1970s, Texas wine started to gain attention on a national scale and nowadays, you can get everything from a full-bodied Viognier to a rich, woodsy Tempranillo.

With 53 vineyards in the Hill Country area, you’ll have plenty of new places to visit – and they’re all right in your own backyard.

Boerne, TX

2 – Montpelier, VT

When you think of Vermont, you might think of cheese, and you’re not wrong about that. With a strong agricultural tradition, Central Vermont has dairies and farms as well as impressive vineyards and wineries all around.

If you’re looking for a great place to live that’s in striking distance of all this bounty, check out Montpelier. This likable hamlet is both cute and accessible.

One thing to note – when you head out to go tasting around your new Vermont home, don’t be surprised if you find a bunch of wines you’ve never heard of before. Because the climate is so cold in the winter, only specially developed vines can grow here.

So forget the Chardonnay and learn to embrace Frontenac blanc instead. While you’re out sipping, also give some of the more unique local blends a try – ice wine, honey wine, and even maple wine are all available here.

Montpelier, VT

3 – Prescott, AZ

Between the great economy, thriving real estate market, and grape-friendly climate, it’s a wonder why anyone would want to live somewhere other than Prescott!

Sure, you get the heat in the summer and cool in the winter, but you’ll also get just enough rain to make this area a secret hotspot for vineyards.

If you like full-bodied reds, this is a great location for you. When you’re not sipping the good stuff, you can head up the road and visit the spas in Sedona, or drive just a bit further and see one of the natural wonders of the world – the Grand Canyon.

(Let’s be honest, though – you might spend so much time enjoying Cab Franc you won’t even want to go anywhere else.)

Prescott, AZ

4 – Finger Lakes, NY

People who think that California is still the king of wine in the US may be shocked to hear this, but wines from the Finger Lakes area of NY has recently scooped up the awards on the wine scene! If you’re into this area, move fast – USAToday named it a top wine region, so the word will spread quickly.

Also, the outdoor lifestyle is big here – residents love hiking, biking, and boating, so if you’re an outdoorsy type, you and your new neighbors will hit it off big time.

With many beautiful lakes, maybe you can even find yourself a lakefront property and spend the day kayaking, then sipping a nutty Gewurztraminer on your own deck watching the sunset!

Finger Lakes, NY

5 – Albuquerque, NM

Instead of thinking, “What’s good about Albuquerque?”, you might find yourself wondering, “What’s NOT good about Albuquerque?”

Between the skiing, the hiking, the gorgeous sunsets, (and oh, yeah, the great wine!) there’s never a dull moment in this city of just over a half-million people.

Albuquerque is home to unique Southwest style architecture, and with a median home price of $202,000, you’re sure to find a house that’s perfect at a perfect price for you.

When you’ve found your perfect Albuquerque digs, you can spend weekends tasting sparkling wines – the region is one of the USA’s best spots for these bubbly classics – or quaffing deep reds. Open up and say Aaaaaahhhlbuquerque!

Albuquerque, NM

6 – Idaho Falls, ID

Boise, ID has been a burgeoning real estate hotspot for awhile now, but did you know that only 30 minutes away, there’s a wine region?

Idaho Falls has it all – the perfect blend of jaw-droppingly beautiful nature, bustling commerce, a great cost of living, and, of course, wine.

If you can withstand the frigid winters, you’ll be rewarded with some of the most gorgeous land in the country and everything from bright Rieslings to fragrant Malbecs. When you dig in and start going tasting, you’ll find over 30 wineries – each one with more interesting offerings than the last.

Whether you’re raising a family or looking for the perfect spot for your newly-empty nest, this city might just be the perfect one for you!

Idaho Falls, ID

7 – Grand Junction, CO

If you love wine AND outdoor adventures, Grand Junction, CO might wind up as number 1 on your wishlist. With 300 plus days of sunshine every year, there’s a lot to like about this gorgeous mountain town.

You can visit the Colorado National Monument or head to one of the area’s many beautiful nature spots. After a day of mountain biking or skiing, you can hit up one of the area’s respected wineries and enjoy a bottle of Syrah or Bordeaux.

With everything from sprawling ranch style homes to more traditional 2-story family digs and a median home price under $250k, Grand Junction’s got a property – and delicious beverages! – for just about any taste.

Grand Junction, CO

There you have it – seven cities you can move to if you want to live the wine life. Which one is your favorite?

Crack open a bottle of your favorite vintage, and share this article with the wine fanatic in your life. You never know – you could wind up in one of these spectacular cities next!

The post Beyond Napa—7 Cool Places To Buy A Home If You Love Wine appeared first on Lighter Side of Real Estate.

Beyond Napa—7 Cool Places To Buy A Home If You Love Wine published first on https://thegardenresidences.tumblr.com/

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17 Nicest Small Towns in America Everyone Should Visit Before They’re 50

21 Nicest Small Towns in America Everyone Should Visit Before They’re 50

1. Jacksonville, Oregon

Consider this an ode to knowing your neighbors, having the baristas at the coffee shop know your order by heart, and seeing everyone come together to root for the local high school football team on weekends. These are our finest quaint communities—the best small towns in America.

2.Traverse City, Michigan

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City is the ultimate outdoor and water activities destination. In the warmer months, you’ll find everyone hiking and biking the numerous trails and participating in the most popular recreational water sports—kayaking, fishing, windsurfing, and paddle boarding. There’s also golfing and bird watching for those who are looking for a more leisurely vacation. July is an especially busy month in Traverse City, as it’s when hundreds of thousands of visitors come in for the National Cherry Festival (the city boasts being the largest producer of tart cherries in the country). And the many farm-to-table dining options, breweries, wineries, and distilleries make it a destination worth visiting even in the winter.

3. Sedona, Arizona Besides its famous gorgeous red rock geography—which is truly a jaw-dropping natural wonder, Sedona is known for its eclectic art scene, near-perfect weather, and of course, fantastic cuisine and wineries. Sedona truly has it all, whether you’re looking for a girl’s spa weekend, an outdoor family excursion-based trip, or a romantic getaway. Spend a day exploring the 200 plus miles of hiking trails or browsing the local handmade craft shops. You can even enjoy an aerial view of the town via hot air balloon, a widely popular activity, especially with a wine glass in hand. The best part of Sedona? There’s really no bad time to visit because events like art festivals, concerts, and food tastings happen year-round thanks to the fabulous warm weather. Here are some more great small town getaways you’ll want to book ASAP.

4. Lahaina, Maui If you’ve got a week or two to spare, consider heading outside of the continental U.S. to Lahaina, Maui. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina is an historic little town with a population of less than 12,000. The town has a prime oceanfront location just south of the famous K’anapali coast, which boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and is home to Maui’s only walkable “downtown” area, lined with shops, eateries, and bars. You can expect lots of gorgeous sunshine-filled days and a dry and mild climate in Lahaina, which is probably why the town is often called “Lele,” meaning “relentless sun” in Hawaiian. And since Lahaina centers around one of Hawaii’s busiest harbors, you can travel among the other islands via ferry for a small fee.

5. Eureka Springs, Arkansas Arkansas isn’t on many people’s radar when it comes to vacation destinations, but Eureka Springs is a small town that shouldn’t be missed. Nicknamed “The Little Switzerland of America” and “The Stairstep Town,” Eureka Springs is a tiny Victorian town nestled in the Ozark Mountains. While the entire city is less than seven square miles, there’s plenty to do and see, like browsing the more than 100 local shops and galleries, visiting historical buildings such as the Thorncrown Chapel, or exploring the underground onyx cave parks. After a busy day, try out one of the town’s multiple award-winning restaurants that serve everything from Indian to Czech-German to Mediterranean fare. Consider heading to the Indian restaurant for dinner and the Czech-German for dessert! Check out America’s best small-town festivals

6. Williamsburg, Virginia

About three hours south of our nation’s capitol lies the city of Williamsburg, a tiny town that played a major role in our country’s history. Williamsburg is almost always a stop on every school’s eighth grade Washington D.C. trip, and for good reason. Founded in 1632, the city was the capitol of the colony of Virginia for nearly 80 years. Williamsburg is the ultimate history buff’s paradise, centered around Colonial Williamsburg, a living-history museum where you’ll see what life was like in the 18th century. You’ll find people dressed in colonial clothing, cobblestone streets lined with blacksmiths and candle makers, and maybe you’ll even catch a ghost tour or witness a witch trial.

7. Sitka, Alaska

Settled nearly 10,000 years ago, and once considered Russian territory, Sitka has a rich history and gorgeous geography. Previously named “New Arkhangeisk” or New Archangel, Sitka is a major cruise ship destination that draws tens of thousands of visitors every year. This Baranof Island city and borough is located seaside right on the Pacific Ocean, so there’s plenty of outdoor activities like freshwater fishing, whale watching, hunting, kayaking, and hiking. The nearby Sitka National Historic Park is a great place to brush up on your Russian American history and catch a glimpse of the bald eagles soaring through the sky. Those feeling really adventurous and up for a challenge can hike Mount Edgecumbe, a dormant volcano with an elevation of 3,200 feet. The seafood is excellent and fresh, so seafood lovers will definitely want to try the local cuisine.

8. Taos, New Mexico

If adobe buildings and Native American culture are of interest to you, you’ll definitely need to spend some time in Taos. The city prides itself on being an “art colony, a world-class ski resort, an ancient community and land of Earthships.” There’s almost everything you could ever possibly want to see and do in this small town. The Taos Pueblo, a community favorite and must-see site, is a living Native American community located at the base of the Sangre de Cristo Mountain range. Just be respectful when visiting, as around 150 people still call the Taos Pueblo home today. There are different activities depending on the season, so plan before you go. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy balloon rides, hot springs, and river rafting, while the winter offers skiing galore. Find out the best-kept secret in every state.

9.Beaufort, South Carolina

If you’ve ever watched the legendary movie Forrest Gump, you’ve already seen parts of one of the best small towns in America: Beaufort, South Carolina. As the second-oldest city in South Carolina, Beaufort is known for its antebellum mansions and historic downtown district. Since Beaufort is located right on Port Royal Island, there are a ton of popular water sports like fishing and boating, in addition to wonderful, fresh seafood. The city is also known as one of America’s best art towns thanks to its array of museums, film festivals, and art galleries. Bay Street is Beaufort’s main road that borders the harbor where you’ll find plenty of restaurants and local shops.

10. Cormorant, Minnesota

Cormorant is often overlooked when there are roundups of the best small towns in America, but it should definitely make your list for one reason: The town’s mayor for the past three years has been a beloved 9-year-old Great Pyrenee named Duke. Yes, you read that correctly, the town has a dog for its mayor. The entire town is less than 37 square miles and has a population of around 1,000, but it’s a beautiful place to relax and enjoy some quiet time. Once you meet the mayor, check out the numerous nearby lakes and get to know the locals. On the other side of the pond, learn about the charming small towns in Europe that you need to see.

11. Port Townsend, Washington

Port Townsend is one of Washington’s greatest Victorian seaside towns and just one of three historic Victorian seaports in the entire United States. Situated on the northeastern tip of the Olympic Peninsula, you’ll find a nature lover’s paradise with the sea on one side and the Fort Worden Historical State Park on the other. A flourishing art scene seems to be the theme among the greatest small towns in America, and Port Townsend is no different. In addition to the local shops, brightly colored mansions, and historic buildings that line the ocean side streets, Port Townsend puts on award-winning theater productions and hosts a variety of concerts, cultural events, and festivals all year round. You’ll want to visit this maritime town soon, as more and more people are moving there every year. Washington is also home to one of the most festive Christmas towns in America.

12. Ocean Springs, Mississippi

In the heart of the Mississippi Gulf Coast lies Ocean Springs, a tiny oceanfront town on the southwestern tip of Mississippi. Dubbed the “City of Discovery,” Ocean Springs has a rich history dating back 300 years, when Native Americans lived on the land before it was formally recognized as a French territory in 1699. Here you’ll find an eclectic art scene and a mix of cultural backgrounds and history, which is why Ocean Springs is home to more than 100 diverse restaurants. The best part: The town’s residents are known for being extremely welcoming and caring, so expect lots of friendly faces.

13. Fredericksburg, Texas

Yes, Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin are major noteworthy Texan cities, but Fredericksburg holds a special place in the Lone Star state. Fredericksburg is one of the most popular towns in the Texas Hill County, but it’s not your typical country Texas town. Founded in 1846 by Prince Frederick of Prussia, the town has strong German roots. Fredericksburg is home to the famous Enchanted Rock, a huge pink granite dome that is 425 feet high and 640 acres wide. It’s a National Natural Landmark and one the National Register of Historic Places that surely can’t be missed. After a day exploring the geography, grab dinner at one of the local restaurants downtown before heading to your quaint bed and breakfast for a good night’s sleep.

13. Berlin, Maryland

Berlin is a tiny little town located in central north Maryland that’s often overlooked by people on their way to Ocean City. In fact, Berlin was once nothing more than a rest stop for travelers in the early 20th century. Today, however, this three-square-mile town is still small, but it has a bustling downtown area that is a National Register Historic District stocked with shops, wonderful eateries, and historic buildings from three distinct time periods, Federal, Victorian, and the 20th century. Maryland even designated Berlin as an “Arts and Entertainment District” due to the plethora of galleries, museums, and public art murals found throughout town. Oh, and movie fans rejoice because the majority of the Julia Roberts/Richard Gere movie, Runaway Bride, was filmed in Berlin, which is reason enough to check it out. These are the most iconic movies filmed in each state.

14. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

If you need an escape from the bright lights and country music of Nashville, look no further than Gatlinburg, a mountainous retreat. Gatlinburg is a mountain resort considered the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Incredible views are a given no matter the time of year you go, but there are different activities depending on the season. In the wintertime, you’ll find the majority of folks skiing the slopes at Ober Gatlinburg, the only ski resort in the state. The town is especially known for it’s Winterfest Celebration during the December holidays when the entire downtown area is festooned with lights. Hiking and biking the thousands of trails of the Smoky Mountains are popular activities in the summer. There’s an incredible waterfall reward if you can make the journey. And the huge Ripley’s Believe It Or Not Museum also draws large crowds, no matter the season. Here are some more summer vacations everyone should take before they’re 50.

15. Keystone, South Dakota

Keystone is home to the Black Hills National Forest, an expansive 1.2 million acres of forested hills and mountains, most famous for Mount Rushmore—you know, the gigantic almost 60-foot granite sculpture that depicts the faces of four U.S. presidents: Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Theodore Roosevelt. Beyond Mount Rushmore, Keystone boasts a gold mine, a wax museum (kind of creepy, kind of not), and outdoor activities like zip lining, hiking tours, and a tramway that offers an aerial view of the mountains. With a population of just under 350, there’s not a ton to do, but sometimes a quite, relaxing vacation is just what the doctor ordered.

16. Dahlonega, Georgia

Wineries and vineyards? Check. A historic downtown? Also check. Horseback riding, zoos, and wildlife preserves? Yes, Dahlonega has those too. Basically, it’s a great year-round vacation destination for people of all ages. Right in the center of the North Georgia Mountains lies Daholenga, a tiny town with a big history. It was the first site of the U.S. Gold Rush way back in 1828, 20 years before gold was ever found in California. Today, there are gold mines still operating where you can pan for gold and maybe even strike it rich. The town’s commercial district is on the National Register of Historic Places and centers around Main Street, where you’ll see art galleries, restaurants, and little shops. Wine, live music, and gold…what more could you want?

17. Moab, Utah

Utah is often praised as one of the most beautiful states in the country, thanks to its sprawling red and orange sandstone arches and white snow-capped mountains. But there’s so much more to Utah than just Park City or Salt Lake City, like Moab, a town located on the southern edge of the Grand Canyon in eastern Utah. What makes Moab so special? It has not one, but two world-renowned national parks, Canyonlands National Park and Arches National Park, which makes it an extremely popular destination for outdoor adventure seekers. Besides your normal hiking and biking trails, travelers can take advantage of excursions like BASE jumping, white river rafting, slacklining/highlining, and rock climbing. If you need a break from all the adrenaline-pumping activities, you can spend a couple of hours browsing the museums and galleries located in the downtown area. Learn which small American towns have the most millionaires.

Cooperstown, New York

New York City isn’t the only place worth visiting in the great Empire State. About 3 and a half hours north of Manhattan lies the seaside village of Cooperstown. Although tiny, this upstate town has a bunch of things to see and do, like the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, a fan favorite among both adults and children. The Brewery Ommegang, which is a local favorite serving craft beers, and the Fenimore Art Museum that houses a large collection of American Folk and American Indian art should also be on your list. If you have the opportunity to see a show at the Glimmerglass Opera, don’t pass it up—it’s considered “world class.” If you want something more outdoorsy, Otsego Lake and Glimmerglass State Park offer spectacular views and an array of activities. These are the American small towns known for the strangest things.

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