Where (and when) to catch the best fall views this autumn

Try something new for fall.

It’s almost time for fall. Everyone is watching the fall foliage map and counting the days until the weather turns cool. If you want to make the most of autumn once it arrives, start planning your seasonal vacations now.

Ready for pumpkin patches and corn mazes? While there are plenty of options for places to go this fall, it can be hard to figure out which spots to visit and when. Make the planning process easy with this list of the country’s best fall views. Below are Outdoors Wire’s top four picks for 2023 autumn vacation destinations, plus some info on the best times to visit.

7 of the best national parks to visit this summer

Embark on a sunny summer trip.

Every summer presents adventurers with a difficult question. How do you make the most of this precious vacation time? While there are tons of hiking, camping, and swimming opportunities to pursue, many travelers prefer to spend their summer exploring national parks.

If you’re searching for a beachy national park experience, Outdoors Wire has several top-tier options to peruse. Don’t worry about park crowds, either. This list of the worst national parks to visit in summer will steer you away from chaotic and congested destinations.

Looking for even more travel inspiration? Check out this round-up of the best national parks to visit in the summer. Get ready for weeks of summer fun.

It’s Farmers Market Season…and We’re Thrilled!

Rhubarb-and lots more-is in season. This beautiful display was found at the Harrisburg, PA Broad Street Market. Destination: Harrisburg, PA You hear the term Farmers Market and what comes to mind? Well, it depends where you live. Some towns have a …

 

Photo by Paul K. Logsdon
Rhubarb–and lots more–is in season. This beautiful display was found at the Harrisburg, PA Broad Street Market.

Destination: Harrisburg, PA

You hear the term Farmers Market and what comes to mind?

Well, it depends where you live.

Some towns have a Saturday market, often set up in the downtown Square or on a picturesque street. They offer everything from clothing to fresh baked items; and, vine-ripened tomatoes to freshly picked apples. Items may be seasonal, and vendors may be your neighbor down the street or an Amish family from outside the city limits.

Some operate out of the back of a series of trucks, often on a mall parking lot, and others are seasonal roadside stands.

Other towns have weekend or even daily markets. We’ve featured a few on The Food Channel before, such as the Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia.

Well, if you want a somewhat smaller—but still excellent—version of that, try going just down the road a bit to Harrisburg’s Broad Street Market. It’s open Thursday, Friday and Saturday, perfect for winding down after a long workweek and stocking up on a few market staples.


Of course you can find fresh vegetables. This time of year the rhubarb stands out, its ruby red color taking center stage. As in the Philly market, many of the stands are run by Amish or Mennonite families, presenting the tried and true recipes that bring people back time and again. Think whoopie pies, pot pie squares, and fresh sticky buns with nuts or raisins.


At this market you can also find a couple of delightful treats, such as the Arch of Happiness offered by the Italian family running the Nonna Ilva stand. It’s essentially a phyllo dough filled with fresh whipped cream and sliced strawberries, and it is both eye-catching and scrumptious. And who doesn’t need an ARCH OF HAPPINESS in their life?

Try downing it with a cappuccino from one of the market’s “we have everything” stands, where you can get a really large cup for just $2, with plenty of rich real cream included.


If you go at mealtime, stop at Let’s Pretzel and get a breakfast log or a stuffed pretzel. The steak, egg and cheese log has the same steak used in many Philly cheesesteaks, and is a nice switch-up from the usual fast food breakfast sandwich. The pizza pretzel also gets high marks, and, if you ask the people who work there, you just may find that it’s their favorite, too.


If none of that appeals, you might enjoy one of the French Toast breakfast sandwiches (with your choice of excellent pastrami or turkey) also found at Nonna Ilva. Or, perhaps you’ll choose a non-traditional chocolate chip whoopie pie, a lemon-filled doughnut or any of the myriad pastry choices scattered throughout the market.

You can also find potted flowers and, well, a variety of just about everything. There’s nothing like farmers market shopping AND eating. Find one in your area!

Most photos by Paul K. Logsdon

 

Wonderful winter vacation ideas for nature-loving adventurers

You’ll be walking in a winter wonderland.

Before you know it, fall will be over, and winter’s chilly winds will arrive. As the year’s end approaches and hectic holiday times loom, why not take a fun trip to alleviate some stress? If you’re looking for winter vacation ideas, check out these gorgeous destinations around the United States.

Want to trek through the snow and see natural wonders? Consider locations in Alaska and Colorado. Looking for scenic spots in warmer areas? Try visiting tourist havens in Georgia and California. There are even options for people who want to enjoy nature without leaving big cities. Start planning your winter escape with this list of eight stunning destinations.

Fall camping destinations with dreamy views of nature

Enjoy the most scenic autumn campgrounds.

Want to break out your camping gear before the weather turns cold? Fall might be your last chance to enjoy a trip outdoors this year, so make sure to plan ahead. As autumn ushers in cooler temperatures and stunning scenery, outdoors enthusiasts will be searching for the best fall camping destinations. Before choosing a camping site, consider what you want out of your trip. Are you looking for a weekend full of serene nature-gazing? Or would you prefer to spend your day on an adventurous hike? Pick campgrounds that cater to your interests and offer the best seasonal views. If you need some inspiration, check out these seven lovely locations.