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  • Spring blossoms, biscuits, and Blue Ridge views in Charlottesville, Va. | Field Trip

    Spring blossoms, biscuits, and Blue Ridge views in Charlottesville, Va. | Field Trip

    Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Charlottesville is ready for spring. The season there comes a little earlier than ours — cherry blossoms popping, birds trilling — so those planning a March getaway should consider the Virginian city, where the weather is often mild enough to spend serious time outside. Rails and walking paths wind like shoelaces through downtown and into the surrounding countryside. As a university town, C’ville is also packed with arts, music, shopping and dining, and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate sits just on the outskirts of town, high on a hill.

    Get your history, get your biscuits. Start the car.

    Fuel: Ace Biscuit & BBQ

    The first stop in town, Ace Biscuit BBQ, announces you’ve arrived in the South. The redbrick building, on the literal other side of the tracks from downtown, opens at 7 a.m. with hot, fresh, crumbly biscuits. Get with butter and jam, sausage gravy, or as bookends to a serious breakfast sandwich with smoked brisket, an over-easy egg, caramelized onions, and cheddar.

    📍 600 Concord Ave., Charlottesville, Va. 22903

    Stay: Graduate Charlottesville

    Charlottesville is a college town, with the University of Virginia’s idyllic and historic campus right downtown. Lean into it and stay at the Graduate, a newer property from the collegiate-themed brand under the Hilton umbrella. Opened in 2015, the hotel is still super fresh, with a game room, scenic rooftop, and rooms dressed in soothing blue walls, Cavalier-print curtains, and bolster pillows embroidered with “Wah-hoo-wa,” the university’s sports cheer.

    📍 1309 W. Main St., Charlottesville, Va. 22903

    Stroll: Downtown Mall

    A short walk from the Graduate, Charlottesville’s pedestrian Downtown Mall offers a solid orientation to the city’s commercial core. Visit shops like C’Ville Arts, a co-op gallery representing over 50 Virginia artists, or catch a show at the historic Paramount Theater, which opened in 1931, closed in 1974, and reopened after a $17-million restoration in 2004. When the biscuit craving returns, hit Miller’s Downtown for lunch. It’s famous for the Charlottesville Nasty chicken biscuit, but the pimento-cheese BLT is the actual move.

    📍 E. Main St., between Second Street NW and Ninth Street NE, Charlottesville, Va.

    Visit: Monticello

    Whether you think history is a snooze or can quote Hamilton from memory — “Thomas Jefferson’s coming home!”— Monticello is must-visit. Set on 2,500 bucolic acres, the estate features multiple exhibits inside, outside, and even beneath the mansion, with thoughtful attention paid to the enslaved people who worked Jefferson’s plantation, including Sally Hemings, with whom he fathered six children.

    📍 1050 Monticello Loop, Charlottesville, Va. 22902

    Walk: Saunders-Monticello Trail

    Beyond the landscaped gardens of Monticello proper, the fairytale woods and meadows of the estate beg for exploring. The Saunders-Monticello Trail is an easy lift for all activity levels, with a maximum five-percent incline and two miles of wheelchair-accessible paved paths and boardwalks winding through forest and over ravines. Stop at Carter Overlook for panoramic views of Charlottesville and the Blue Ridge Mountains.

    📍 Parking: 503 Thomas Jefferson Pkwy., Charlottesville, Va. 22902

    Drink: Blenheim Vineyards

    Dave Matthews Band got its start in Charlottesville, gigging at Miller’s on the mall and other stages around town. Though the singer now lives in Seattle, he maintains a strong connection to Virginia. One touchpoint is his winery, Blenheim Vineyards, situated on 32 acres of rolling chartreuse hills stitched with sauvignon blanc, chardonnay, and albarino vines. Giant windows in the wood-clad A-frame frame the landscape during guided tastings of five wines (just $25). Consider this your pre-dinner drinks.

    📍 31 Blenheim Farm, Charlottesville, Va. 22902

    Dine: Smyrna

    Back downtown, Smyrna’s oysters with ramp mignonette, hamachi crudo with anise-compressed melon, and manti dumplings dabbed with garlic yogurt earned chef Tarik Sengul a semifinalist nod from the James Beard Foundation this year. You’ll have to wait till April to find out if he advances to the finalist round of the awards — making right now an ideal time to check this sharp Aegean restaurant out for yourself.

    📍 707 W. Main St., Charlottesville, Va. 22903

  • The best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend

    The best things to do in Philadelphia this weekend

    Happy Friday! Below are some of our favorite things to do in the Philadelphia area this weekend. We put out new Philly weekend plans for you every week, so you’ll always have something to do on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.

    You can always find our favorite activities of the weekend at inquirer.com/things-to-do. Have an event you’d like to feature in the Inquirer? Submit an event to our calendar.

    Gallery Groove

    (Community) The Museum for Art in Wood is transforming its gallery into the ultimate dance floor. Bring a friend and dance the night away to beats by DJ On Mars, and enjoy delicious bites by Burrito Feliz. All proceeds raised support programming and exhibitions at the museum.

    ⌚️Feb. 20, 8-11:30p.m., 📍141 N. 3rd St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 museumforartinwood.org/, 💵 $50-75

    Philly Home and Garden Show

    (Community) Looking for inspiration for your next home improvement or renovation project? Hundreds of vendors are heading to this show offering DIY workshops, product demos and pop up shops. If you’ve been waiting to start those New Year home projects, this is a must do.

    ⌚️ Feb. 20-22, 📍100 Station Ave., Oaks, Pa, 19456, 🌐 phillyhomeandgarden.com/, $10-12, Children 12 and under FREE

    Philadelphia Yoga and Wellness Conference

    (Community) Breathe in, breathe out. This one-day wellness event at the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia invites you to slow down, connect, and learn. Find inspiration through workshops, guided yoga sessions, special guest speakers, and locally sourced foods. A portion of proceeds benefits the Philadelphia Men’s Basketball League Camps.️

    ⌚️ Feb. 21, 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m., 📍10 Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia, Pa, 19102, 🌐 philadelphiayogaconference.com, 💵 $300 (two for $550)

    Last Seen Book Launch

    (Community) In honor of Black History Month, Villanova University professor Judith Giesberg is heading to the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion for a discussion of an often overlooked aspect of nineteenth-century Black life. In her book Last Seen, Giesberg describes the stories of formerly enslaved Black Americans who spent years searching for their family members who’d been stolen away during slavery. Copies of the book will be available at the event.

    ⌚️Feb. 21 3p.m., 📍200 W. Tulpehocken St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19144, 🌐 tix.com/, 💵 $9.65-27.75

    Lunar New Year at Dilworth Park

    (Community) The Year of the Horse is charging its way into Philadelphia this week. Head to Dilworth park to celebrate with red envelope giveaways, performances, ice skating and more.

    ⌚️Feb. 21, 5-7p.m., 📍1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19102, 🌐 centercityphila.org, 💵 Free

    Jewelry Making Workshop

    (Community) Ready to create your new favorite jewelry piece? This workshop will guide you through simple techniques to create 2-3 handmade pieces. All materials and tools are provided, and if you have chains or pendants you love, bring them to include in your project.

    ⌚️ Feb. 21, 12:30-2p.m., 📍 1326 E. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, Pa, 19147, 🌐 https://eventbrite.com, 💵 $72

    Presidential Connections

    (Community) While Laurel Hill Cemetery isn’t the final resting place of any U.S. Presidents, there are plenty of presidential connections buried there. From an opera singer who performed for President Roosevelt to a young actor who was due to take the stage for President Lincoln at the Ford Theater, you’ll learn all of the many ties to former leaders that lie in the historic grounds.

    ⌚️Feb. 21, 1-3p.m, 📍3822 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, Pa 19132, 🌐 laurelhillphl.com, 💵 $2-20

    The best events for kids in Philly

    “It’s About Time”

    (Theater) A wholly student-powered musical takes audiences from a school cafeteria into time travel, complete with an evil lunch lady and a giant talking bird at Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center. Ages 5 and up.

    ⌚February 19-22, times vary, 📍7 Lock St, Philadelphia, Pa., 19127, 🌐yesandcamp.org, 💵 $2-$18

    “Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairytale”

    (Theater) The Players Club of Swarthmore puts on a zany, hour-long, pop- and rock-infused musical retelling of the fairytale about a trapped princess, angry queen, brave prince, hairstylist, and dragon. Ages 3-10.

    ⌚February 21-22, 28, March 1, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., 📍614 Fairview Rd., Swarthmore, Pa., 19081, 🌐 pcstheater.org, 💵 $13.50-$18.50

    Lunar New Year, Pearl S. Buck House

    (Culture) Pearl S. Buck House in Bucks County hosts live performances, a tea ceremony, paper crafts, games, and tours of the late author’s house. Reservations required. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 📍520 Dublin Rd., Perkasie, Pa., 18944, 🌐 pearlsbuck.org, 💵 $9-$15

    Lunar New Year at the Rail Park

    (Culture / free) This community-centered celebration has quickly become on of the city’s most popular, thanks to live lion dances, tai chi performances, K-pop workshop, a flower market, appearance by the Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club, and snacks. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 1-4 p.m., 📍Broad and Noble sts.., Philadelphia, Pa., 19123, 🌐therailpark.org, 💵 Free

    Black History Month Family Fun Night

    (History / free) Pre-registration has officially filled an evening of Black history-inspired crafts, activities, flashlight tours, arts, and workshops, but there’s still some room for day-of walk-up admission at the National Constitution Center. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 5-8 p.m., 📍525 Arch St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19106, 🌐constitutioncenter.org, 💵 Free

    Lunar New Year

    (Culture / free) This annual Dilworth Park celebration has Chinese opera, dancing by Kun Yan Lin and lion dancing by the Philadelphia Suns, plus lucky red envelopes for the first 100 guests. It’s also the last weekend for City Hall’s ice skating rink. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 5-7 p.m., 📍1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19102, 🌐centercityphila.org, 💵 Free, $7-$10 to skate

    “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast”

    (Musical) Back on tour for the first time in 25 years, this lavish Broadway production lands at the Academy of Music, bringing Belle, the Beast, and a château full of singing furniture back to the stage — complete with soaring ballads and storybook spectacle. Ages 4 and up.

    ⌚ Feb. 11–22, times vary, 📍240 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102, 🌐 ensembleartsphilly.org, 💵 $33–$219

    “Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition”

    (Movie-making) The Franklin Institute hosts a world premiere exhibit that turns movie magic into hands-on discovery, with behind-the-scenes looks at Universal’s biggest franchises — from Minions and Jurassic World to dragons, monsters, Mario, and Luigi — via immersive sets and interactive displays. Ages 5 and up.

    ⌚ Feb. 14–Sept. 7, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. plus extended hours, 📍222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103, 🌐 fi.edu, 💵 $25–$65

    Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way

    (Kids) The Please Touch Museum welcomes a hands-on exhibit visiting from Minnesota Children’s Museum, inspired by the beloved British cartoon. Kids can climb, balance, animate stop-motion scenes, explore a play truck, and even try on a sheep costume. Ages 3–9.

    ⌚ Feb. 7–May 10, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., 📍4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, Pa. 19131, 🌐 pleasetouchmuseum.org, 💵 $24; $2 ACCESS cardholder

    Winter at Dilworth Park

    (Seasonal / multiday) The season’s early arrival brings the reopening of Dilworth Park’s ice rink, Wintergarden, and holiday market. Sip cocoa in the cozy cabin or skate beneath the lights. All ages.

    ⌚ Through Feb. 22, hours vary, 📍1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102, 🌐 centercityphila.org, 💵 Free to enter; skating $7–$10, rentals $10

    RiverRink Winterfest

    (Seasonal / multiday) Penn’s Landing becomes a full-on winter playground with its outdoor skating rink, a cozy warming lodge, carnival rides, arcade games, fire pits, and plenty of food and drink. Skating is ticketed; entry to the waterfront space is free. Ages 3 and up.

    ⌚ Through Mar. 1, times vary, 📍101 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free entry; $5 to skate, $12 rental

  • The best things to do in Philadelphia this week

    The best things to do in Philadelphia this week

    Explore all of the best things to do in and around Philadelphia: From upcoming events and art installations to the most picturesque date spots, we share all you need to know to make the most out of your week in Philly.

    You can always find our favorite activities of the week at inquirer.com/things-to-do. Have an event you’d like to feature in the Inquirer? Submit an event to our calendar.

    Chinese New Year Midnight Parade

    (Community) Bring in the Year of the Horse at midnight in Chinatown at this explosive parade. Festivities include traditional lion and dragon dances, music and cultural performances, games and prizes, and delicious authentic dishes. Wear something red and festive and come ready to celebrate.

    ⌚️Feb. 16, 10p.m. – Midnight, 📍 Arch St. &, N. 10th St., Philadelphia, Pa 19107, 🌐 centercity.events, 💵 Free

    An Aquarius Wine Tasting

    (Community) Aquarius are known for being independent, unconventional and ahead of their time, but what does that say about their taste in wines? Come find out at this unruly tasting where guests will enjoy give 3-oz pours, selected for their Aquarian qualities. Light snacks will be provided to complement the wine selection.

    ⌚️Feb. 18, 6-8p.m., 📍1525 South St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19146, 🌐 jetwinebar.com, 💵 $79

    Gallery Groove

    (Community) The Museum for Art in Wood is transforming its gallery into the ultimate dance floor. Bring a friend and dance the night away to beats by DJ On Mars, and enjoy delicious bites by Burrito Feliz. All proceeds raised support programming and exhibitions at the museum.

    ⌚️Feb. 20, 8-11:30p.m., 📍141 N. 3rd St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19106, 🌐 museumforartinwood.org/, 💵 $50-75

    Philly Home and Garden Show

    (Community) Looking for inspiration for your next home improvement or renovation project? Hundreds of vendors are heading to this show offering DIY workshops, product demos and pop up shops. If you’ve been waiting to start those New Year home projects, this is a must do.

    ⌚️ Feb. 20-22, 📍100 Station Ave., Oaks, Pa, 19456, 🌐 phillyhomeandgarden.com/, $10-12, Children 12 and under FREE

    Philadelphia Yoga and Wellness Conference

    (Community) Breathe in, breathe out. This one-day wellness event at the Ritz-Carlton Philadelphia invites you to slow down, connect, and learn. Find inspiration through workshops, guided yoga sessions, special guest speakers, and locally sourced foods. A portion of proceeds benefits the Philadelphia Men’s Basketball League Camps.️

    ⌚️ Feb. 21, 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m., 📍10 Avenue of the Arts, Philadelphia, Pa, 19102, 🌐 philadelphiayogaconference.com, 💵 $300 (two for $550)

    Last Seen Book Launch

    (Community) In honor of Black History Month, Villanova University professor Judith Giesberg is heading to the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion for a discussion of an often overlooked aspect of nineteenth-century Black life. In her book Last Seen, Giesberg describes the stories of formerly enslaved Black Americans who spent years searching for their family members who’d been stolen away during slavery. Copies of the book will be available at the event.

    ⌚️Feb. 21 3p.m., 📍200 W. Tulpehocken St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19144, 🌐 tix.com/, 💵 $9.65-27.75

    Lunar New Year at Dilworth Park

    (Community) The Year of the Horse is charging its way into Philadelphia this week. Head to Dilworth park to celebrate with red envelope giveaways, performances, ice skating and more.

    ⌚️Feb. 21, 5-7p.m., 📍1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa, 19102, 🌐 centercityphila.org, 💵 Free

    Jewelry Making Workshop

    (Community) Ready to create your new favorite jewelry piece? This workshop will guide you through simple techniques to create 2-3 handmade pieces. All materials and tools are provided, and if you have chains or pendants you love, bring them to include in your project.

    ⌚️ Feb. 21, 12:30-2p.m., 📍 1326 E. Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia, Pa, 19147, 🌐 https://eventbrite.com, 💵 $72

    Presidential Connections

    (Community) While Laurel Hill Cemetery isn’t the final resting place of any U.S. Presidents, there are plenty of presidential connections buried there. From an opera singer who performed for President Roosevelt to a young actor who was due to take the stage for President Lincoln at the Ford Theater, you’ll learn all of the many ties to former leaders that lie in the historic grounds.

    ⌚️Feb. 21, 1-3p.m, 📍3822 Ridge Ave., Philadelphia, Pa 19132, 🌐 laurelhillphl.com, 💵 $2-20

    The best events for kids in Philly

    Lunar New Year Parades

    (Culture / free) Chinatown activates with firecrackers, red confetti, and lion dancing in the street to usher in the Year of the Horse on the night of February 16 and a daytime celebration on Sunday. All ages.

    ⌚February 16, 10 p.m.-midnight, February 22, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., 📍N. 10th and Spring sts., Philadelphia, Pa., 19107, 🌐chinatown-pcdc.org, 💵 Free

    “It’s About Time”

    (Theater) A wholly student-powered musical takes audiences from a school cafeteria into time travel, complete with an evil lunch lady and a giant talking bird at Venice Island Performing Arts & Recreation Center. Ages 5 and up.

    ⌚February 19-22, times vary, 📍7 Lock St, Philadelphia, Pa., 19127, 🌐yesandcamp.org, 💵 $2-$18

    “Rapunzel! Rapunzel! A Very Hairy Fairytale”

    (Theater) The Players Club of Swarthmore puts on a zany, hour-long, pop- and rock-infused musical retelling of the fairytale about a trapped princess, angry queen, brave prince, hairstylist, and dragon. Ages 3-10.

    ⌚February 21-22, 28, March 1, 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., 📍614 Fairview Rd., Swarthmore, Pa., 19081, 🌐 pcstheater.org, 💵 $13.50-$18.50

    Lunar New Year, Pearl S. Buck House

    (Culture) Pearl S. Buck House in Bucks County hosts live performances, a tea ceremony, paper crafts, games, and tours of the late author’s house. Reservations required. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 📍520 Dublin Rd., Perkasie, Pa., 18944, 🌐 pearlsbuck.org, 💵 $9-$15

    Lunar New Year at the Rail Park

    (Culture / free) This community-centered celebration has quickly become on of the city’s most popular, thanks to live lion dances, tai chi performances, K-pop workshop, a flower market, appearance by the Fletcher Street Urban Riding Club, and snacks. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 1-4 p.m., 📍Broad and Noble sts.., Philadelphia, Pa., 19123, 🌐therailpark.org, 💵 Free

    Black History Month Family Fun Night

    (History / free) Pre-registration has officially filled an evening of Black history-inspired crafts, activities, flashlight tours, arts, and workshops, but there’s still some room for day-of walk-up admission at the National Constitution Center. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 5-8 p.m., 📍525 Arch St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19106, 🌐constitutioncenter.org, 💵 Free

    Lunar New Year

    (Culture / free) This annual Dilworth Park celebration has Chinese opera, dancing by Kun Yan Lin and lion dancing by the Philadelphia Suns, plus lucky red envelopes for the first 100 guests. It’s also the last weekend for City Hall’s ice skating rink. All ages.

    ⌚February 21, 5-7 p.m., 📍1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19102, 🌐centercityphila.org, 💵 Free, $7-$10 to skate

    “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast”

    (Musical) Back on tour for the first time in 25 years, this lavish Broadway production lands at the Academy of Music, bringing Belle, the Beast, and a château full of singing furniture back to the stage — complete with soaring ballads and storybook spectacle. Ages 4 and up.

    ⌚ Feb. 11–22, times vary, 📍240 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102, 🌐 ensembleartsphilly.org, 💵 $33–$219

    “Universal Theme Parks: The Exhibition”

    (Movie-making) The Franklin Institute hosts a world premiere exhibit that turns movie magic into hands-on discovery, with behind-the-scenes looks at Universal’s biggest franchises — from Minions and Jurassic World to dragons, monsters, Mario, and Luigi — via immersive sets and interactive displays. Ages 5 and up.

    ⌚ Feb. 14–Sept. 7, 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m. plus extended hours, 📍222 N. 20th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103, 🌐 fi.edu, 💵 $25–$65

    Shaun the Sheep: Flock This Way

    (Kids) The Please Touch Museum welcomes a hands-on exhibit visiting from Minnesota Children’s Museum, inspired by the beloved British cartoon. Kids can climb, balance, animate stop-motion scenes, explore a play truck, and even try on a sheep costume. Ages 3–9.

    ⌚ Feb. 7–May 10, 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., 📍4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, Pa. 19131, 🌐 pleasetouchmuseum.org, 💵 $24; $2 ACCESS cardholder

    Winter at Dilworth Park

    (Seasonal / multiday) The season’s early arrival brings the reopening of Dilworth Park’s ice rink, Wintergarden, and holiday market. Sip cocoa in the cozy cabin or skate beneath the lights. All ages.

    ⌚ Through Feb. 22, hours vary, 📍1 S. 15th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102, 🌐 centercityphila.org, 💵 Free to enter; skating $7–$10, rentals $10

    RiverRink Winterfest

    (Seasonal / multiday) Penn’s Landing becomes a full-on winter playground with its outdoor skating rink, a cozy warming lodge, carnival rides, arcade games, fire pits, and plenty of food and drink. Skating is ticketed; entry to the waterfront space is free. Ages 3 and up.

    ⌚ Through Mar. 1, times vary, 📍101 S. Columbus Blvd., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106, 🌐 delawareriverwaterfront.com, 💵 Free entry; $5 to skate, $12 rental

  • Industrial bones and big flavors in Easton, Pa. | Field Trip

    Industrial bones and big flavors in Easton, Pa. | Field Trip

    Nestled in the crook of the Lehigh and Delaware Rivers, Easton’s manufacturing might was powered by its waterways during the Industrial Revolution in the early 20th century. Tanneries, flour and silk mills, distilleries, breweries — these were the big businesses in town.

    Now, those old industrial shells and the former mansions of tycoons house cafés and galleries, boutique hotels and French-inspired markets. Easton sits just 90 minutes from Philly, making it an easy weekend getaway. Take the Turnpike north, hook a right at Allentown, and head toward the river.

    Start the car.

    Stay: Townley House Hotel

    In dining, shopping and arts, Easton way overdelivers. Hotels are still catching up. Fortunately, the popular Gusto Hospitality Group (see Dine, below) opened the Townley House Hotel several years ago, and the 16-room boutique remains the best place to stay in town. An original mahogany staircase links the levels of this restored brick townhouse on Easton’s historic Millionaire’s Row. There’s a sun-dappled courtyard, Mercer-tiled fireplaces, maximalist wallpapers and custom headboards — a different one for each room.

    📍 130 N. 3rd St., Easton, Pa. 18042

    Stroll: Karl Stirner Arts Trail

    Running nearly two miles along scenic Bushkill Creek to Lafayette College’s William Visual Arts Building, the Karl Stirner Arts Trail weaves through 27 works of public art. The trail is named for the German-born sculptor and metalsmith largely credited for making Easton an arts destination in the ‘80s. You’ll find his untitled steel arch, painted an unmissable scarlet, about two-thirds of the way down the path.

    📍 Parking at 521 N. 13th St., Easton, Pa. 18042

    Snack: Pie + Tart

    In this world, there are people who love pie, and there are monsters. Don’t be a monster. On Northampton Street, Easton’s main drag, Pie + Tart is charming spot with exposed brick walls and Shaker-style chairs from bakers Lisa Yelagin and Anne Gerr. Savory pies (coq au vin) and sweet ones (Mexican chocolate chess, cherry cheesecake) rotate weekly, alongside soups, quiches, and other cozy blackboard specials.

    📍 349 Northampton St., Easton, Pa. 18042

    Create: Crayola Experience

    If you’re bringing kids — or you simply have strong feelings about Burnt Sienna and Tickle-Me-Pink — meet the Crayola Experience. The king of crayons was born — and still manufactured — right here in Easton. The four-floor experience mixes analog crafts and digital diversions, including an 85-foot water table and a photo booth that generates a coloring-book selfie. Great opportunity to see what you’d look like as a Mango Tango redhead.

    📍 30 Centre Sq. Cir., Easton, Pa. 18042

    Shop: Belleville Market

    Men’s shearling-lined shackets, watercolor paint-by-numbers journals, irreverent incense (“Chai-Scented Laziness,” “Burn Away the BS”) and more fill Belleville Market, a three-level department store inspired by the marketplaces the owners fell for in France. Keep an eye on their events page to see if your Easton trip lines up with the shop’s happenings, like the upcoming Moka pot demonstration and tasting and floral-filled spring open house.

    📍 20 S. 3rd St., Easton, Pa. 18042

    Drink: Kabinett

    We don’t need to tell you: The PLCB does not make sourcing great wine easy. Which makes Kabinett, a Bavarian-inspired refuge furnished with warm woods, wishbone chairs, and framed botanical prints, all the more impressive. A grandly antlered stag skull presides over the bar. The Wine Spectator-recognized list ranges from whole-cluster Santa Barbara Sangiovese and South Australian Riesling from 175-year-old vines. It’s deep but playful, organized under headings like:“Reds ~ OK, Boomer. Safe Cabernet & oak space for full-throttle bottles.”

    📍 125 Northampton St., Easton, Pa. 18042

    Dine: Albanesi Restaurant & Bar

    Italian restaurants run by Albanians form their own industry sub-genre. At Albanesi Restaurant & Bar, Gusto Group’s Mick Gjevukaj, who grew up in the war-torn former Yugoslavia, is putting his heritage center stage with dishes like harissa-spiced rib-eye qofte (kofte), veal goulash, and braised lamb shoulder lacquered in pomegranate. Climb into one of the camel-colored clamshell banquettes, order some samuna bread and hummus swirled with ajvar, a Balkan condiment of roasted peppers and tomatoes, and settle in for culinary geography lesson. Who knew you’d learn it in Easton?

    📍 235 Ferry St., Easton, Pa. 18042

  • A snowy New England escape in Manchester, Vt. | Field Trip

    A snowy New England escape in Manchester, Vt. | Field Trip

    A tiny state, more than a third of which represents conserved land, Vermont has done things its own way since the colonial era. Its Green Mountain Boys militia once fended off land claims from New York and New Hampshire, and for a brief moment, Vermont even functioned as its own republic. That don’t-tread-on-me energy still lingers today, blended with a deep respect for the arts, outdoors, history, and small business. In southern Vermont, less than five hours from Philly, the village of Manchester is a microcosm of that personality. Slung between the Green Mountains, the glowing town looks like something straight out of a Hallmark movie — especially in winter, when snow this time of year is nearly guaranteed.

    Start the car.

    Stay: Kimpton Taconic

    Stone fireplaces, leather chairs, plaid wallpaper, draft-blocking drapes, a grand front porch … Kimpton Taconic hits the winter-in-New-England vibes hard. The 86-room boutique hotel sits right on Main Street, close to everything in town, and has a solid on-site tavern, the Copper Grouse (think cider-brined chicken and maple crème brulée). The hotel also offers seamless equipment rentals through a Ski Butlers partnership. Bookings also include two free adult tickets to Hildene.

    📍 3835 Main St., Manchester, Vt. 05254

    Visit: Hildene

    Just south of town, surrounded by woods and snow, Hildene was built at the turn of the 20th century by Mary and Robert Lincoln, the only son of Abraham and Mary Todd Lincoln. Run as a museum nonprofit since 1978, the Georgian Revival estate, gardens, and 12 miles of trails are open to visitors, making it a must-stop whether you’re into history, architecture, design, or horticulture. Train buffs will love Sunbeam, the restored Pullman carriage from Robert Lincoln’s tenure as president of the Pullman Co. from 1897 to 1911.

    📍 1005 Hildene Rd., Manchester, Vt. 05254

    View: Southern Vermont Arts Center

    Take a short detour off Main Street into the forest and you’ll find Southern Vermont Arts Center. This estate includes classrooms, museum galleries, performance space, a yoga studio, and a café. Originally built in 1917 as a summer estate for an Ohio socialite and philanthropist, the property was acquired by the arts center in 1950. Grab a coffee at the café and walk — or snowshoe, or cross-country ski — through their epic sculpture park.

    📍 860 Southern Vermont Arts Center Dr., Manchester, Vt. 05254

    Shop: Northshire Bookstore

    Northshire Bookstore is almost a caricature of Vermont: a rambling country house riddled with cozy alcoves. Opened in 1976 and now run by three sisters who grew up shopping there, the store leans hard into its indie roots — staff bios list genre specialties and years of service. They’ve got the bestsellers, sure, but it’s their rare-books collection that’s really special. A signed Jimmy Carter autobiography, for example, or an alternatively illustrated British edition of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.

    📍 4869 Main St., Manchester Center, Vt. 05255

    Ski: Bromley Mountain

    Located only 10 minutes from town, Bromley Mountain’s 47 trails represent a solid mix of expertise levels. If you’re skiing experience begins and ends with the Poconos, maybe start with a few runs on the family-friendly Chase-It trail before leveling up to the Lord’s Prayer, the Plunge, and Havoc.

    📍 124 Bromley Lodge Rd., Peru, Vt. 05152

    Relax: Spa at the Equinox

    After a day on the slopes, soothe those boot-bound feet and sore hammies at the Spa at the Equinox. Deep-tissue massage, Ayurveda treatments, cupping therapy, maple sugar scrubs — get one, get them all. You won’t want to leave the spa. It’s got cozy relaxation lounges, a huge indoor pool stretching out beneath an open-beam ceiling, and an outdoor hot tub perpetually cloaked in steam.

    📍 3567 Main St., Manchester, Vt. 05254

    Dine: The Reluctant Panther

    Points for the name alone. The Reluctant Panther, whose moniker nods to Vermont’s resistance to outside rule in the late 1700s, has been operating as a bed-and-breakfast since the 1960s — but its restaurant is open to the public. The food is exactly what you want to eat in the winter here: a Vermont cheese board, thick pork chops with German potato salad and smoked maple gastrique, venison osso buco, all served in a fireplace-warmed dining room. The wine list has earned Wine Spectator recognition four years straight. Meow.

    📍 39 West Rd., Manchester, Vt. 05254

  • Offseason eats, arcades, and live music in Asbury Park | Field Trip

    Offseason eats, arcades, and live music in Asbury Park | Field Trip

    Would you believe it if we told you Asbury Park is the same distance from Philly as Sea Isle? For many Philadelphians, the north end of the Shore might as well exist on another planet. Fortunately, the offseason is the perfect time to broaden one’s horizons — so that come summer, you might break out of the tribal nature that governs which sands you plant your umbrella in.

    As one of the larger towns on the coast, with a healthy year-round population, Asbury Park makes an ideal entrée. Things are open in the winter.

    Not everything — but enough to keep you busy for a weekend of city-level food, idiosyncratic shopping, and live music. Start the car.

    Fuel: Hey Peach

    Make your first stop just to the south of Asbury, at Hey Peach in Bradley Beach. This inviting granny-core café-bakery from Erin “Peach” Kilker lines its wooden sideboard and pastry case with holey olive fougasses, crackling croissants, Scottish shortbread, fat cream puffs, and more. If the weather cooperates, grab one of the bistro tables out front and enjoy your pastry (or three) with a Counter Culture coffee.

    📍 126 Main St., Bradley Beach, N.J. 07720

    Stay: Asbury Ocean Club

    It might not be beach weather, but the glittering sea views from the 11-foot windows at Asbury Ocean Club are just as dramatic in winter. The soothing dune-and-khaki suites in this luxurious 54-room high-rise — which opened in 2019 — feel especially indulgent in the offseason. Winter rates hover in the mid-$300s; that same room can top $1,000 on a summer weekend.

    📍 1101 Ocean Ave. N., Asbury Park, N.J. 07712

    Play: Silverball Retro Arcade

    Cosplay your favorite Stranger Things kid (minus the Vecna creepy-crawlies) at Silverball Retro Arcade. Gamer or not, it’s impossible not to light up like the 1992 Addams Family pinball machine when you step inside this clanging, jangling boardwalk fixture. And because it’s not summer, the chances are good you’ll have no trouble finding an empty Skee-Ball lane. (Fun fact: Skee-Ball was invented in Vineland in 1907, with early alleys manufactured in Philly.)

    📍 1000 Ocean Ave. N., Asbury Park, N.J. 07712

    Shop: Asbury Park Bazaar

    Right in the middle of the boardwalk, where you can shop for travel-inspired hoodies at Promised Land Apparel and thrifted art supplies at Asbury Park Art Club, Asbury Park Bazaar pops up through the year inside the Grand Arcade at Convention Hall. More than 50 vendors will fill the space on Valentine’s Day weekend, selling everything from patch-customized beanies and travel-inspired hoodies to candles that melt into massage oil.

    📍 1300 Ocean Ave. N., Unit C-4, Asbury Park, N.J. 07712

    Read: Paranormal Books & Curiosities

    Ghost ships, Victorian murders, haunted houses — in Asbury Park, spooky season never really ends. Paranormal Books & Curiosities anchors the city’s supernatural streak, selling horror novels, spellbooks, and oddities, while also running ghost tours and curating a small paranormal museum. Whether you’re looking for Grady Hendrix, Paul Tremblay, or something to summon the corners, you’ll find it here.

    📍 621 Cookman Ave., Asbury Park, N.J. 07712

    Dine: Judy & Harry’s

    Named for owner Neilly Robinson’s parents, Judy & Harry’s in the St. Laurent Hotel is a two-in-one restaurant and cocktail bar with butterscotch leather barstools, frosted globe lights, and framed family photos. The menu, by Robinson’s partner and James Beard semifinalist David Viana, blends her Italian and Jewish heritage with dishes like limoncello-splashed hamachi crudo, ricotta-matzo ball soup, schmaltzy potatoes, and chicken and eggplant parm. If you’re visiting Asbury on a Sunday, swing in for their $38 Sunday Sauce prix fixe supper.

    📍 408 Seventh Ave., Asbury Park, N.J. 07712

    Jam: The Stone Pony

    What’s the opposite of a sleeper pick? First opened in 1974, Stone Pony is so deeply and inextricably tethered to Asbury Park. Everyone knows it. The bar and venue runs shows every weekend through the offseason, and the variety is pretty astounding: a Dave Matthews tribute band, country singer Hunter Hayes, a student showcase from Red Bank’s School of Rock, bassist and Phish cofounder Mike Gordon. Tourists go. Summer people go. Locals go. You should go.

    📍 913 Ocean Ave. N., Asbury Park, N.J. 07712

  • Best barbecue in Philadelphia to eat right now

    Best barbecue in Philadelphia to eat right now

    Philly isn’t exactly known for barbecue. But there is a robust scene here, with players, old and new, doing it up right and keeping us full.

    Local barbecue specialists smoke meats for more than a dozen hours to achieve the perfect smoke ring and Texas-trained chefs cook up exciting takes on classic barbecue dishes.

    Here is our guide to the region’s best barbecue.

    Fette Sau

    Fette Sau (German for “Fat Pig”), opened in Fishtown to eager crowds more than a decade ago and has since established itself as a mainstay in the Philly barbecue scene. The shop has three signature barbecue sauces each offering its own tangy, smoky, or spicy flavor to the pink-ringed smoked meats and meat-heavy sandwiches.

    📍1208 Frankford Ave., 📞 215-391-4888, 🌐 fettesauphilly.com, 📷 @fettesauphilly

    Ruth Henri, owner and chef, prepares ribs from the smoker with help from Michael Bradley at Henri’s Hotts BBQ, a roadside barbecue joint in Hammonton, N.J.

    Henri’s Hotts BBQ

    After owner Doug Henri passed away unexpectedly in 2021, his capable wife Ruthie took over the beloved roadside barbecue spot known for slow-smoked meats and homestyle soul food. Not much has changed with the family matriarch at the helm: The brisket — which smokes for 19 hours — is still moist, the St. Louis Style ribs are still cooked until the ribs bend and served fresh (never reheated), and the corn pudding still comes from Henri’s grandmother’s recipe.

    📍1003 E. Black Horse Pike, Hammonton, NJ,📞 609-270-7268, 🌐 henrishottsbarbeque.com, 📷 @henrishottsbbq

    Mike’s BBQ

    Pit master Mike Strauss may have sold his namesake barbecue joint to young gun Daniel Grobman in 2023, but Strauss’ energy still courses through the kitchen thanks to a virtually unchanged menu. The spare ribs, pulled pork, brisket, and crispy pork belly remain fantastic, while the restaurant’s Korean barbecue wings have a hard to replicate smokey-yet-spicy flavor — just asked Herr’s, which made a limited-edition chip inspired by the recipe in 2023.

    📍1703 S. 11th St., 📞 267-831-2040, 🌐 mikesbbqphilly.com, 📷 @mikesbbq_215

    A platter including pork ribs, brisket, and jerk chicken at Big Swerve’s BBQ, located 201 Broadway, Westville, N.J.

    Big Swerve’s BBQ

    Hidden down an alley and around a parking lot in Westville, Gloucester County, is Big Swerve’s, a converted shipping container that churns out oversized platters of brisket and chicken with all the classic Southern fixings. Big Swerve is actually Stephen Clark, a former Free Library of Philadelphia security guard who stands 6′3″ and is fastidious about what powers his smoker ( lump charcoal, oak and cherry wood, never hickory). Big Swerve’s is best known for their brisket-stuffed egg rolls and jerk chicken sliders, plus combos that include three proteins and three sides, more than enough to share.

    📍201 Broadway, Westville, N.J.📞 856-349-7469, 🌐 bigswervesbbq.com, 📷 @bigswervesbbq

    Rick’s Backyard Barbeque & Grill

    Rick Gray opened Rick’s Backyard Barbeque & Grill in Mizpah in the location where beloved Uncle Dewey’s BBQ operated for over two decades. Here, find a smoker as big as a school bus’s hood, plus a menu inspired by the barbecue Gray’s father, Melvin Gray Sr., cooked at backyard family cookouts, a distinctive, and perhaps elusive flavor that he captures with the touch of charcoal that he adds to regulate the heat of his oak logs. Gray’s seasonings are fairly simple, letting the meats and their slow ride through the long brick smoking pits. Try the tender spareribs or opt for the chicken, particularly when it’s taken fresh off the grill. Rick’s is closed for the season through mid-April, but is still taking catering order over the phone should a rib emergency ever strike.

    📍 6931 US-40, Mizpah, NJ, .📞 609-476-4040 🌐 facebook.com/ricksbbqgrill

    The Hickory smoked wings at Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse, located at 7500 State Rd. in Holmesburg.

    Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse

    Sweet Lucy’s Smokehouse in Holmesburg is a reliable barbecue spot with a well-rounded menu of hickory-smoked meats, sandwiches, and sides. Meats like smoked chicken and pulled pork are available in platter, sandwich or just meat form, and smoked wings and baby back ribs round out the menu.

    📍7500 State Rd., .📞 215-333-9663 🌐 sweetlucys.com, 📷 @sweetlucys_bbq

    Brisket, pulled pork, and pork ribs from the Ole Hickory smoker at Zig Zag BBQ in Kensington.

    Zig Zag BBQ

    Owner Matt Lang smokes on a gas-fired Ole Hickory, turning out brisket, pork, turkey, and pork spare ribs, which he sells by the pound and in sandwiches. A rotating assortment of sides such as queso mac, corn pudding, potato salad, and KFC style slaw complement the selection of meats.

    📍2111 E. York St., .📞 267-951-2596 🌐 zigzagbbq.com, 📷 @zigzagbbq

  • Philly, here are 15 great places to get party trays for Super Bowl LX

    Philly, here are 15 great places to get party trays for Super Bowl LX

    If you’re hosting or attending a Super Bowl party, food is a must — lots of it.

    The Philly area offers an abundance of options for trays, platters, and à la carte items. From traditional Italian fare and charcuterie boards to savory Indian, Middle Eastern, and Argentinian party foods, the variety is impressive.

    Here are some excellent spots around Philly for picking up a spread for your Super Bowl party. And since the Eagles aren’t playing, the hardest part of your day will be deciding what to eat.

    Philly Pretzel Factory

    You can’t go wrong with a pretzel tray, especially when it’s from a Philly favorite. Get the large size rivets party tray for 20 to 25 people with three dips or the classic Philly Pretzel-style beef pretzel dogs and dips for 20 to 25 guests. The pepperoni melts — basically a pretzel pizza — are another good option for large parties. Order at any of the various locations.

    📍1532 Sansom St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19102 (and other locations from Woodbury to Springfield), 📞 215-569-3988, 📷 @phillypretzelfactory, 🌐 phillypretzelfactory.com

    Veda

    From quarter trays for 10 people to full ones serving 50 people, this Center City restaurant has all the veggie samosas, tandoori chicken, and pork ribs for you and your crew. Choose from lamb, chicken, vegetarian, and seafood entrees, rice and biryani items, soups and salads, and desserts, including gulab jamun and kheer. Mango lassi is also offered.

    📍1920 Chestnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19103, 📞 267-519-2001, 📷 @vedaphilly, 🌐 vedaphilly.com

    Di Bruno Bros.

    If you’re looking for a cheese tray or charcuterie board, it’s tough to beat this Philly institution. The shop has a catering arm for premade cheese boards, charcuterie trays, sandwich trays, crudités platters, colossal shrimp cocktail, desserts, and just about anything else you can think of — all available for pickup or delivery. You can also build your perfect board from a substantial selection of cheeses, cured meats, and other specialty items with the help of Di Bruno Bros.’ expert cheesemongers.

    📍930 S. Ninth St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 (locations throughout Philadelphia), 📞 215-922-2876 (or 215-665-1659 for catering), 📷 @DiBrunoBros, 🌐 dibruno.com

    Termini Brothers Bakery

    This Philly classic, established in 1923, offers an array of sweets including cannoli, cakes, sfogliatelle, and almond horns, along with roughly a dozen types of cookies. Termini’s cookie trays showcase eight varieties, such as pignoli, coconut macaroons, imbutitti, and scumetti, and can serve up to 35 people depending on the tray size. Biscotti boxes and cannoli trays are also available for those looking for more variety, or you can opt for a prepackaged cookie tin, which is available for shipping.

    📍 1523 S. Eighth St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 (locations also in Packer Park Shopping Center, Reading Terminal Market, Comcast Center, and Live! Casino & Hotel), 📞 215-334-1816, 📷 @Termini_Bros, 🌐 termini.com

    Campo’s Deli

    Yes, Campo’s has been slinging good steaks since 1947, but the deli also has other extremely Philly party trays. The pretzel tray, for example, includes enough pretzels, Peanut Chews, whiz, and mustard to serve up to 30 people, or you can go full dessert mode with a variety platter of Tastykakes that will feed up to 25.

    📍 214 Market St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19106 📞 215-923-1000, 📷 @CamposPhillyCheesesteaks, 🌐 camposdeli.com

    Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop

    If you’re going the sandwich route to feed a crowd, this South Street spot has a ton of options ranging from a cheesesteak made with shaved rib-eye and truffle whiz to a vegan-friendly falafel sandwich with roasted beets. Woodrow’s signature sandwich tray comes ready to serve 10 people and includes three sandwiches of your choice. Or, if you want it a little more DIY, grab a hot tray of meatballs, coffee barbecue brisket, or hot pork that can feed up to 25 people and have folks serve themselves.

    📍630 South St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147, 📞 215-470-3559, 📷 @WoodrowSandwich, 🌐 woodrowsandwich.com

    Isgro Pastries

    This South Philly institution, a 2024 James Beard semifinalist, has been delighting customers with specialties like cannoli, rum cake, and ricotta cookies since 1904. Among its standout party offerings is the Chip and Dip tray — but forget about tortillas. This innovative take on the traditional cannoli platter comes in two sizes, serving either 12-15 (small) or 20-25 people (large), and features crispy cannoli chips paired with chocolate cream, vanilla cream, and ricotta with dark chocolate chip dips, ensuring that soggy party cannoli are a thing of the past.

    📍 1009 Christian St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19147 📞 215-923-3092, 📷 @IsgroPastries, 🌐 isgropastries.com

    Indeblue

    This Cherry Hill restaurant offers an array of party tray and catering options perfect for any gathering. Choices include tandoori lollipop lamb chops, veggie or paneer shashlik, veggie samosas, fresh naan, and more. For dessert, indulge in kheer and chai or chocolate pot de crème — most options are designed to serve up to 20 people, depending on the size selected. If you’re looking for something to quench your thirst, consider grabbing a bottle of mango lassi, house-made chai, or mint lemonade, each bottle serving 15.

    📍65 Barclay Farms Shopping Center, Cherry Hill, NJ 08034, 📞 856-230-4633, 📷 @Indeblue, 🌐 indebluerestaurant.com

    Manakeesh Cafe, Bakery & Grill

    This University City spot gets its name from a traditional Lebanese flatbread made with crispy dough and vegetarian or halal meats. And, of course, you can order them for a crowd topped with beef, lamb, labneh, cheese, and more. Or you can go with other savory options like beef or chicken shawarma, platters of dips like hummus and baba ghannouj, falafel, grape leaves, and more — and finish with trays of the cafe’s famous baklava; creamy, cheesy kanafe; or basboosa (a semolina cake soaked in syrup).

    📍 4420 Walnut St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104, 📞 215-921-2135, 📷 @ManakeeshCafe, 🌐 manakeeshcafe.com

    Jezabel’s Argentine Café & Catering

    Grab a savory platter from chef Jezabel Careaga, like empanadas that run the gamut from spicy beef or chicken to ham and mozzarella or vegan-friendly lentils (they come in packs of 12 or in an assorted box of eight). Or, keep it sweet and check out Jezabel’s alfajores (a kind of Argentinian cookie sandwich filled with dulce de leche), egg custard tarts or torta de ricotta.

    📍 206-208 S. 45th St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19104, 📞 215-554-7380, 📷 @Jezabels.PHL, 🌐 jezabelsphl.com

    Corropolese Italian Bakery & Deli

    If the occasion calls for tomato pie, Corropolese is the place to go. You can grab quarter (eight slices) or full sheets (30 slices) of its famous tomato pie from any of four Pennsylvania locations, either plain or topped with add-ons like sweet peppers, fried eggplant, or pepperoni. If you want something a little more refined, the Norristown and Limerick locations offer catering options that can serve up to 24 people, with offerings like antipasto, bruschetta, prosciutto-wrapped melon, and a variety of hot hors d’oeuvres (72 hours’ notice required, pickup only).

    📍 2014 Old Arch Rd., Norristown, Pa. 19401 (locations also in Limerick and Audubon, Pa.), 📞 610-275-6664, 📷 @CorropoleseBakery, 🌐 corropolesebakery.com

    Johnny Paisano’s

    Located in Springfield, Delaware County, this beloved local establishment offers an extensive selection of “red gravy” Italian dishes, hoagies, wraps, and finger foods. À la carte platter options feature full sheets of pizza (24 slices) in more than a dozen varieties, massive strombolis (a large serves 70 slices), hoagie trays (up to 32 pieces), and appetizers like bruschetta and fried ravioli. For events feeding 50 or more people, consider the catering packages, which can simplify menu planning for you.

    📍 143 S. State Road, Springfield, Pa. 19064, 📞 610-690-0150, 📷 @JohnnyPaisanos, 🌐 johnnypaisanos.com

    Streetside BBQ

    To keep your parties a little smoky, head to Willow Grove for a bevy of BBQ platters, desserts, classic sides, and, of course, meat by the pound. Streetside has everything from baby back ribs, brisket, smoked wings, and pulled pork to prime rib, beef tenderloin, and smoked Italian sausage and leg of lamb — plus sides like half pans (serves 20 to 24 people) of baked beans, collard greens, smoked veggies, and more.

    📍 801 W. Moreland Rd., Willow Grove, Pa. 19090, 📞 215-821-7665, 📷 @Streetside_BBQ, 🌐 streetsidebarbecue.com

    Carlino’s Market

    Folks out in the western ‘burbs probably know this longtime favorite, seeing as it’s been a destination for gourmet Italian fare and ingredients for roughly 40 years now. Like its urban counterpart Di Bruno Bros., Carlino’s list of offerings is almost endless. If you’re after game-day eats, you’ll want to get quarter tomato pie with football stencil, and six-inch stadium cannoli cake, miniature football eclairs, and chocolate dipped football strawberries.

    📍 2616 E. County Line Rd., Ardmore, Pa. 19003 (and in West Chester), 📞 610-649-4046, 📷 @CarlinosMarket, 🌐 carlinosmarket.com

    Grazing Affair

    It’s all about grazing at this Medford shop, which focuses on “grazing boards” and boxes. Choose from a ton of custom-made boards and takeaway boxes with a wide variety of meats, cheeses, crackers, bread, dried fruits, veggies, nuts, olives, and dips (boards, meanwhile, come with flowers and herbs for style points, and you can even keep the pine board they come on). Or, for something unique, check out the charcuterie cones. Note: Grazing platters start at $180 and require a week’s notice.

    📍5 S. Main St., Medford, N.J., 08055, 📞 609-975-8069, 📷 @GrazingAffair, 🌐 grazingaffair.com

    Beatrice Forman contributed to this article.

  • Pizza, museums, and waterfront walks in New Haven | Field Trip

    Pizza, museums, and waterfront walks in New Haven | Field Trip

    With a population of just over 140,000, New Haven still manages to be tiny Connecticut’s third-largest city — and one that punches well above its weight as a weekend getaway.

    It’s a university town, a harbor town, and a New England town, all folded into one. The result is a destination with world-class cultural institutions, excellent food — the pizza is as outrageous as you’ve heard — and easy access to the outdoors, from the river-fed coast of Long Island Sound to one of the largest urban parks in the region. From Philly, it’s about three hours and change up I-95, depending on traffic around New York. Start the car.

    Stay: Hotel Marcel

    Originally the HQ of the tire-producing Armstrong Rubber Co., the Wharf District Hotel Marcel inhabits an architecturally significant, brutalist concrete building honeycombed with windows and retrofitted to run entirely on renewable energy. The inside is just as interesting: terrazzo staircases with mahogany rails, Connecticut-made walnut beds, and a circular bar pouring spirulina margaritas and nonalcoholic spiced cranberry cider.

    📍 500 Sargent Dr., New Haven, Conn. 06511

    Hike: East Rock Park

    New Haven’s central green space, East Rock Park, spans 427 acres and rises 350 feet above the city, rewarding visitors with sweeping views of downtown and Long Island Sound. Not feeling a winter hike? You can drive to the summit instead. Traveling with kids? Stop by the Trowbridge Environmental Center on the park’s west side for hands-on exhibits about the local ecology.

    📍 41 Cold Spring St., New Haven, Conn. 06511

    Lunch: Frank Pepe and Sally’s Apizza

    If there’s only one thing you know about New Haven, it’s probably the pizza. Or as they call it here, apizza (“a-beetz”), derived from the southern Italian immigrants that opened the first shops in the early 1900s.

    For lunch, stage a mini pie crawl along Wooster Street and compare two legends located a block apart. At Frank Pepe (est. 1925), the tomato pie and oregano-dusted white clam pie are classics for a reason. At Sally’s Apizza (1938), whose recent expansion hasn’t dimmed the original’s quality, the blistered tomato pie with mozzarella is the move.

    📍 Frank Pepe: 157 Wooster St., New Haven, Conn. 06511

    📍 Sally’s Apizza: 237 Wooster St., New Haven, Conn. 06511

    Visit: Yale Peabody Museum

    If there are only two things you know about New Haven, they’re probably the pizza and Yale. The Ivy’s lovely, leafy campus dominates the center of town. (It’s no Penn, but…) The impressive collection at the Yale Peabody Museum, which is free to visit and requires no advance ticketing, includes a towering brontosaurus skeleton, a 300-pound Brazilian tourmaline cluster, and 4000-year-old Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets.

    📍 170 Whitney Ave., New Haven, Conn. 06511

    Read: Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library

    Decried as an incongruous eyesore when the Gordon Bunshaft-designed Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library opened in 1963, the modernist building has become an architectural icon on campus. Translucent marble cladding gives the interior a cozy glow while protecting the literary treasures, which are arranged in a stunning five-story cubic column, from sun damage. Even if you’re not a rare-books obsessive, it’s worth visiting for the space alone. Current exhibits include a 15th-century Gutenberg Bible and illustrated Japanese crepe-paper books.

    📍 121 Wall St., New Haven, Conn. 06511

    Dine: Fair Haven Oyster Co.

    It’ll likely be a bit too chilly to sit out on the pretty deck over the Quinnipiac River, but the warm woodwork and porthole windows get the seafood-tavern vibe across well at Fair Haven Oyster Co. Start with four different types of New England oysters, then progress to tots topped with American sturgeon caviar, oil-poached tuna toast, and bone-in skate wing in Meyer lemon brown butter. Skip dessert.

    📍 307 Front St., New Haven, Conn. 06513

    Scoop: Arethusa Farm Dairy

    Based in Litchfield County, Arethusa Farm Dairy produces some of the richest ice cream around, using 16%-butterfat milk from its own cows. Lucky for New Haven visitors, there’s an outpost at the Yale Shops. Breathe in the smell of freshly pressed waffle cones while choosing from classic flavors like coconut-coconut chunk, strawberry that actually tastes like strawberries, and an excellent coffee ice cream. One scoop is never enough.

    📍 1020 Chapel St., New Haven, Conn. 06510

  • Waterfalls, cabins, art, and eats in Milford, Pa. | Field Trip

    Waterfalls, cabins, art, and eats in Milford, Pa. | Field Trip

    Milford is an outdoorsy town — and then some.

    It sits along the scenic banks of the Upper Delaware River in Pike County, surrounded by mountains, with access to major trails, canoeing, kayaking, and biking, and the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania. It’s an adventure hub among the best in the tristate region.

    But Milford isn’t just for people in hiking boots. It’s also an artsy town, with galleries, a theater, and dedicated film, music, and writers’ festivals. It’s a shopping destination too, with a slew of antique and gift shops, and a healthy-living store that rivals anything in Philadelphia or New York.

    “Geographically, I believe Milford has the edge over most small towns around,” said local entrepreneur Bill Rosado, who owns some popular businesses in town. “It is centered so well. Just looking at the town is a treat to me.”

    There’s plenty of history in Milford, too, which calls itself the “birthplace of the conservation movement” as it was home to Gifford Pinchot, founder and first chief of the U.S. Forest Service. It also has a historical museum that’s home to a unique and morbid artifact from the Civil War era.

    And, finally, you have to eat. Milford is home to fine dining at historic hotels, both fancy and cozy bars, along with breweries, classic diners, organic coffee, and, thanks to Rosado, authentic food from Mexico’s Yucatan peninsula. (He was born there.)

    Milford’s about 75 miles northwest of Manhattan and just across the river from North Jersey, so yes, you’ll see Yankees and Giants gear, but it’s just 135 miles from Philly, so get up there.

    One of the cabins available for rent at Sean Strub’s Dwarfskill Preserve in Milford, Pa.

    Stay: Dwarfskill Preserve

    There are plenty of hotels in downtown Milford that are in the midst of everything the town has to offer, including the historic and ornate Hotel Fauchère and the Tom Quick Inn, which would be at home in Cape May. Rosado owns both of them.

    I’ve been eyeing up the tiny cabin at the 575-acre Dwarfskill Preserve, up in the hills above town, for years now, as a former colleague had spent extended time there over the years and shared lovely pictures. It’s owned by former Milford mayor Sean Strub and consists of three separate properties: the one-room cabin I rented for a few nights with my girlfriend, Jen, and my dog, Wanda, and two larger cabins that can fit more people.

    We stayed there over the New Year’s holiday, cooking brisket in the microwave and making coffee on the hot plate. While Milford and the Dwarfskill are undoubtedly at their best in the summer and fall, when you can take full advantage of the outdoor opportunities, including the swimming hole at the cabin, we watched both the wood fireplace and the ample snowfall outside for hours. It was hard to leave, a full hygge experience, in Northeastern Pennsylvania.

    📍 Dwarfskill Falls Lane, Milford, Pa. 18337

    Grey Towers, the Pinchot family residence, outside Milford, and the family’s haven from 1886 to 1963. The family made its fortune in lumber.

    Explore: Grey Towers National Historic Site

    If you drive around Pennsylvania as much as I do, you’ll see the name Gifford Pinchot quite a bit. Pinchot was a two-term governor of the Commonwealth and has a 54,000-acre state forest named after him.

    He went on to found and run the U.S. Forest Service and is generally considered a pioneer in the U.S. conservation movement. Pinchot was born in Milford and his home, Grey Towers, is a national historic landmark run by the U.S. Forest Service. Its curated gardens, French chateau-style stone architecture, and expansive library can all be seen on tours, both in-person during spring, summer, and fall, and online all year round.

    At 150-feet tall, Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania.

    If you’re interested in something a little more outdoorsy, visit Raymondskill Falls, which, at 150 feet, is the tallest in Pennsylvania. You can, technically, visit in winter, but the ice and snow could be treacherous. In summer, you might have to brave some crowds and jammed parking lots, but the views are worth it.

    📍 Grey Towers: 122 Old Owego Turnpike, Milford, Pa. 18337

    📍 Raymondskill Falls: Raymondskill Road, Milford, Pa. 18337

    Learn: The Pike County Historical Society at the Columns

    It’s not every day that a county historical society can really wow you with an artifact, but Pike County punches up with a Civil War relic you won’t find anywhere else in the world: the bloody U.S. flag used to cradle Abraham Lincoln’s head after he was shot at Ford’s Theatre in 1865.

    The flag and other exhibits are housed in “the Columns,” a 1904 neoclassical-style mansion. Want to learn how they obtained the flag? Visit on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

    📍 608 Broad St., Milford, Pa. 18337

    Shop: Better World Store and Cafe

    It’s hard to pin down Better World Store and Cafe in one category.

    It’s a place to get coffee or tea and healthy pastries. It’s a community hub, where people gather to meet or work remotely.

    It’s also a place to look good, with woolens and other “natural” clothes, and smell good, or simply be good, with homesteading supplies and books.

    📍 Broad Street, Milford, Pa. 18337

    Eat: Felix’s Cantina at La Posada

    Jen spends weeks in the Yucatan every winter, so she was surprised to see a restaurant in Northeastern Pennsylvania promising a “taste of the Yucatan Peninsula and other regional dishes from southern Mexico.”

    Rosado, who also owns a historic theater in town, owns the Cantina at La Posada, yet another one of his hotels. He was born in Merida, the capital of Yucatan.

    He knows the dishes well, and she approved, describing our pork and birria tacos as “fattening and delicious.”

    For breakfast, the Waterwheel Café Bakery Bar, an old grist mill along Sawkill Creek, serves up a killer thick-cut challah French toast. We basically licked the plate clean.

    The Waterwheel Café Bakery Bar

    📍 Felix’s: 210 Second St., Milford, Pa. 18337

    📍 Waterwheel: 150 Water St., Milford, Pa. 18337