Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

"The Blackstone River Valley National Heritage Corridor can be considered the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, as the Blackstone River in Pawtucket powered America’s first successful cotton mill and initiated America’s push toward industrialization. Visitors are welcome to explore the small towns and villages of the valley, which are full of farmers markets, hiking trails, history, and outdoor recreation. Consider taking a tour of the Blackstone Canal, which is responsible for many mills and subsequent mill villages along the river." [Travel+Leisure]

National Park

Website: Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park

Address: 175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860

 

Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area

"This National Heritage Area spans from New York City to Albany and is full of scenic parks, outdoor recreation, and plenty of history. Historians may want to visit one of the many historic sites or museums such as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum, while outdoor enthusiasts may prefer rock climbing in the Shawnagunks or hiking in the Catskills. The Hudson River Valley also boasts farmers markets, upscale restaurants, and impressive art and sculpture exhibitions." [Travel+Leisure]

National Park

Website: Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area

Address: 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12210

 

The Lost Kitchen

"WHAT: A fairy tale of a destination restaurant, occupying part of a hydro-powered millhouse (circa 1834) in a midcoast town whose population totals 719. Here’s the plot twist: Dinner at the Lost Kitchen ranks as one of the country’s most unattainable reservations. Chef-owner Erin French begins accepting annual bookings on April 1 for reservations between May and New Year’s Eve, and they fill within hours. 

WHY: Those who do score a golden ticket are in for the kind of evening that addresses all the senses. Listen to a small dam burbling just outside, note the shift in aromas while watching French and her staff cook eight courses in the day’s dying light and savor her unfussy knack for layering flavors. Oysters perfumed with basil and violet might kick off a meal; lamb loin revved with pickled rhubarb and feta epitomizes springtime. The food is remarkable, but the calming pace and collective cheer completes the spell." [Eater]

Restaurant

Website: The Lost Kitchen

Address: 22 Mill St, Freedom, ME 04941

 

El Secreto

"A short boat ride north of San Pedro will deposit you onto a portion of Ambergris Caye that feels worlds away from any town or city. Once ensconced in a private bungalow on a private beach, there isn’t much to distract the guest from complete enjoyment of the charms of the Caribbean water, the sunshine, and the slower pace that characterizes day-to-day life in the North Islands. Massage therapists are available, as are spa services, and a full range of excursions and activities can be arranged via the concierge. Thirteen exclusive villas are available, one of which includes a steam room and private infinity pool, while other villas either feature beach access, Jacuzzi tubs, private outdoor showers, or decks that stretch over a saltwater lake. El Secreto’s full-service restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a bar is poolside in the main lodge. Rates begin around $3,000 for a three-night stay." [AFAR]

Boutique Hotel / Beach

Website: El Secreto

Address: 11 Miles North Ambergris Caye, Belize

 

Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail

"Alabama may not be known for its outdoor recreation, but that doesn’t mean the National Park Service has nothing to offer here. On March 7, 1965, 600 Civil Rights activists marched along Route 80 from Selma toward Montgomery. Only six blocks later local officials attacked the activists. Martin Luther King Jr. led another march back to the bridge two days after. By the time the walk ended in Montgomery on Thursday, March 25, there were more than 25,000 in attendance. Visitors can retrace their steps on this National Historic Trail, and pay respects to the fallen." [Travel+Leisure]

Historical Place /National Park

Website: Selma To Montgomery National Historic Trail

Address: Hayneville, AL 36040

 

Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

"The Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument contains caves that have been used as shelters by nomadic peoples for thousands of years. Rooms have been built, pottery has been made, and families have been raised in these cliffs as peoples of different cultures came and went. The park service offers educational tours of the dwellings as well as bird watching, nature walks, and wildlife viewing tours. Backpackers (and horseback riders) will not be disappointed either, as the monument lies within the Gila Wilderness, an 870-square-mile designated wilderness area that was the first in the country." [Travel+Leisure]

National Monument / National Park

Website: Gila Cliff Dwellings National Monument

Address: Gila National Forest, Silver City, NM 88061