In 1783, Thomas Jefferson wrote about the view of the Potomac River through the Blue Ridge Mountains, saying it was one of the “most stupendous scenes in Nature… worth a voyage across the Atlantic.”  The scene he was referencing sits above the town of Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, viewed from a rock formation that now bears Jefferson’s name. Hikers who visit this spot more than two centuries later would agree with Jefferson’s sentiments. Harpers Ferry represents the epitome of the scenic beauty and rich history for which Jefferson County – also named for the former president – is known. Visiting …

Brunswick, Maryland masters the triple threat. It’s a small city in southwestern Frederick County with considerable assets: a prime location on the Potomac River’s north bank; fascinating railroad heritage, earning it a spot on the National Register of Historic Places; and a thriving main street business district. The city is an ideal destination for visitors – day trips, overnights and weekend or longer getaways for hikers and bikers, nature lovers and history buffs alike. Brunswick is located 15 miles southwest of the City of Frederick, an hour’s drive from Baltimore and Washington, D.C., and is just minutes from Harper’s Ferry, …

This July marks 160 years since the Battle of Gettysburg, often considered the most iconic battle of the American Civil War. The town of Gettysburg is known by most only for those three specific days (July 1-3, 1863) in its history and visitors often focus on the military maneuvers, generals and soldiers who fought. But the town existed before that time and has existed since, and a newly opened museum aims to take visitors “Beyond the Battle.” Gettysburg National Military Park and a number of other regional museums and sites, interpret who fought who, where and when, and give you …

In March thoughts turn to everything Irish in anticipation of St. Patrick’s Day, the quintessential Irish celebration. It certainly sounds like the perfect time to visit one or more of the East Coast’s primo Irish pubs. Here’s 10 that come highly recommended. McSorley’s Old Ale House | 15 E. 7th St., New York City McSorley’s is America’s oldest continuously operated Irish bar, opened in 1854 by John McSorley as an Irish working man’s saloon. In its 168-year history, the legendary institution has served only ale, both light and dark, and house sodas. Note that this is a cash-only business. McSorley’s has …

Who doesn’t love a parade, especially in shades of green? Various cities claim to be the site of the first St. Patrick’s Day parade in the U.S. No matter who gets the title, all six of the spots below deserve a visit, as the sites of some of the East Coast’s foremost St. Patrick’s Day parades. Before you go, make sure to check for transportation options and street closings, and dress for the weather! New York City Let’s start with the world’s largest – and possibly oldest – St. Patrick’s Day Parade. The Big Apple’s first parade was held on …

When considering a yoga retreat, advice from an expert is invaluable. Melanie Psaltakis, veteran yoga instructor, retreat leader and founder of Maryland-based Wayfinders Yoga, offered her strategies for finding the best fit for your perfect retreat. 1. First identify what kind of experience you seek. Is it purely yoga, including asana, pranayama, chanting, and meditation? A silent meditation retreat? Yoga plus cultural activities, local cuisine, or hiking? 2. Determine your intentions. Do you want to withdraw, go within, have time for introspection? Seek quiet and solitude? relaxation? reconnection? Exploration of a new or different area? Deepen your yoga practice, such …

Although many would argue there is no wrong time to indulge in chocolate, February is considered Chocolate Month because of Valentine’s Day. Here are a half dozen world-class East Coast chocolatiers you should try. Goodnow Farms Chocolate | Sudbury, MA Goodnow Farms Chocolate is one of the world’s few chocolate makers to press its own cocoa butter, and one of the few in the U.S. to make single-origin, non-alkalized cocoa. Each premium Goodnow bar identifies the bean’s country of origin and percentage of cacao. All of Goodnow’s gourmet chocolate is made at Tom and Monica Rogan’s 225-year-old farm, which now …

The obvious reason February is considered the month of love is that Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14. Another reason is that in many parts of the country, the cold weather offers an easy excuse to cozy up with someone you love. For those reasons alone, it is a great time to plan a getaway. Here are 10 of the East Coast’s top romantic destinations. The Woods Treehouse | Norway, Maine Ever thought about a romantic stay in a luxury treehouse? Sam and Rob Masabny have created a hidden oasis in Norway, Maine. This two-bedroom custom treehouse, which has …