“Vanilla” is often used to describe something considered basic or plain, but we’re here to announce that vanilla is never boring on our watch! For National Ice Cream Month this July, destinations are giving the classic vanilla a glow-up – think spices, swirls and surprising mix-ins that are anything but basic. Restaurants and ice cream shops are churning out creative takes on this beloved base flavor, making each vanilla variation worth melting for.
Vanilla goes full-on Southern indulgence here, because Cow Tracks Moo Pie is anything but understated. Chaney’s homemade Cow Tracks ice cream is the real star of the show, with a creamy vanilla base that’s then loaded with chunks of Snickers candy bars and a caramel swirl. As if that isn’t total perfection – brace yourself – it’s then scooped on top of a warm and gooey skillet chocolate chip cookie. What could make this concoction even sweeter? Being able to see the adorable Jersey cows that are on site, providing their fresh milk for the farm’s tasty ice cream. They’re just a moo away from the scoop shop, and visitors can meet the herd on a farm tour while seeing the cow-to-cone magic in action. Vanilla is never plain here … it’s pasture-raised perfection.
This National Ice Cream Month, take your vanilla to new heights … Smoky Mountain heights, to be exact, with the Bear Cone, a whimsical treat found at Dollywood theme park and its resorts, Dollywood’s DreamMore Resort and Spa and Dollywood’s HeartSong Lodge & Resort. This adorable cone, inspired by the black bears of the Smoky Mountains, pairs perfectly with Dollywood’s soft-churn vanilla ice cream. With several topping options available, the Bear Cone turns classic vanilla into a mountain-sized treat worth roaring about.
Queen City Creamery is serving up a birthday party treat you don’t have to share thanks to Cake in a Cup. Layers of house-made vanilla frozen custard, rich fudge, cookie crunchies, chocolate frozen custard and a sizable swirl of icing come together in one perfectly proportioned treat. It’s a creamy, crunchy celebration of vanilla that’s all about treating yourself … no candles required.
Known more for Louisiana’s famed snowballs than sundaes, Louisiana’s Cajun Bayou is serving up a tasty surprise at Central Sno. This treat starts with creamy vanilla ice cream that’s layered with crumbled Biscoff cookies and rich cookie butter, then topped with whipped cream. In a region where shaved ice usually reigns supreme, this twist on vanilla is a dish worth celebrating.
Pineapple Upside Down Cake Milkshake from The Yard
At the original Yard Milkshake Bar in Gulf Shores (the same sweet shop that scored a “Shark Tank” deal and launched a nationwide craze for wild milkshakes) this limited-time special starts with a scoop of vanilla blended with pineapple puree in a vanilla-iced jar rolled in crushed graham crackers. It’s piled high with whipped cream, more graham cracker crumbs, a pineapple puree drizzle, a scoop of Pineapple Upside Down Cake Cookie Dough and, of course, finished with a cherry on top. Born from a beachy brainstorm, The Yard is proving vanilla can go from basic to buzzworthy with the right mix of flavors and fruit.
Homemade vanilla bean ice cream takes the literal cake here at The Carriage House with a chocolate Matilda Cake inspired by the famous cake from the Matilda movie. Served with a luscious raspberry sauce, this dessert pairs a Southern classic with a touch of Hollywood magic, casting vanilla ice cream in the perfect supporting role.
Vanilla gets a bold wake-up call at Smiley’s with a house-made vanilla soft-serve custard affogato, served with a pour of velvety nitro cold brew. This cool, caffeinated combo is simple, sophisticated and sippable, proving that even the most classic flavors can be buzzworthy.
National Caves and Karst Day Is June 6 … and Here’s Where to Celebrate
In a country that has a day for everything, of course there’s one set aside to pay tribute to caves. June 6 denotes National Caves and Karst Day, a celebration of those mysterious pits that humans have been exploring for generations … though not always with great success.
This year seems like a particularly good one to acknowledge America’s caves, considering that the story of what happened to one cave explorer has made it all the way to a Broadway stage in 2025. “Floyd Collins: The Musical” shares the story of the man who got trapped in a Kentucky cave in 1925 and created a media frenzy, and the show has been nominated for six Tony awards. Though things didn’t work out so well for Floyd, what happened to him prompted the National Park Service to take control of the country’s biggest cave. But more on that later …
Mammoth CavePhoto Credit: NPS Photo
Though today we’re fully focused on caves, it helps to understand what “karst” is, too. That’s the type of topography that’s created when rocks dissolve, and it results in features like natural bridges and sinkholes … and, of course, caves.
MBPR proudly represents destinations in two of the most “karst-y” places in the entire country, western Kentucky and the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia. Each location is home to a variety of caves, and we’re proud to work with three that are especially fascinating. We encourage you to visit them and learn what’s going on under the earth, then emerge to discover some incredible attributes outside the caves, too.
These caverns are located within the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, a region that’s incredibly rich in limestone. There are plenty of caves to explore up and down the valley, but we’re particularly fond of Shenandoah Caverns. For starters, it’s the only cave in the state of Virginia to offer elevator service, which means it provides a chance for more people to get inside a cavern and look around. The paths are very wide and most of the ceilings are quite tall. This makes it much more “user-friendly” than caves that feature lots of steps or winding paths.
Something else that sets Shenandoah Caverns apart from most other caves in this region and around the country is the fact that it was formed by both underground rivers and seismic activity. Caves are usually formed by one of those elements or the other, not by both. And a little surprise that’s probably the caverns’ most popular feature is the presence of “cave bacon,” unique formations that looks like everyone’s favorite breakfast meat.
The caverns also just added a new display on June 1. Two years ago, researchers found skulls belonging to a prehistoric animal called the Mylohyus fossilis, or long-nosed peccary (a type of wild pig), in a remote passage in the caverns. They were able to excavate the skulls, which are now being studied, but models have been created so visitors can see what sort of creatures used to live here.
The same limestone that forms the caves also makes the Shenandoah Valley an incredible agricultural region. This part of the United States was once covered by an ancient ocean, and the remains of marine life formed the limestone. The rich soil here is perfect for growing hay, apples and grapes. And you know what comes with grapes … wine! Shenandoah County is home to eight wineries. Of these, Third Hill at DeMello Winery is closest to the caverns, but the others are located anywhere from 10 to 45 minutes away.
Lost River Cave is the only natural underground boat tour in all of Kentucky, which is a big bragging right in a state that’s home to at least 5,000 documented caves. That means that to see inside this cave, you board a boat and take a 25-minute ride through a natural wonder.
The boat is equipped for riders of all types of mobility, so even babes in arms can get their first-ever peek at the interior of a cave.
Besides the cool boat ride and the fact that Lost River runs underneath the third largest city in Kentucky, this cave is known for its famous blue hole, which gets its color from – you guessed it – all the limestone in the area. The cave also has plenty of folklore around it … some stories true, some not so much. It has served as a hunting ground for Native Americans (true), a Civil War camp for both Union and Confederate soldiers (yep), a hideout for the outlaw Jesse James (hmmm… has it?), and the area’s most unusual nightclub (fun fact).
The singers from back in the 1930s can attest to the cave’s dramatic acoustics.
The boat tour is only a portion of what your admission ticket gets you. There’s also a complete above-ground experience that shows off the beauty of the land. There’s an array of trails and a geocaching adventure, and from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the cave’s staff also operates the Charlie Miller Butterfly Habitat.
This isn’t just an example of good marketing … the cave earned its “Mammoth” name because it’s the longest cave system in the entire world. So far, more than 400 miles have been explored, and there’s no telling what lies beyond that. Back in the early 1900s, people popped in and out of this area’s caves with reckless abandon. But an accident in the winter of 1925 at a neighboring cave – a news event referred to as the “entrapment of Floyd Collins” – led to the National Park Service taking over Mammoth Cave and putting incredible safety measures into place. That set the tone for new ways of exploring Kentucky’s “Cave Country.”
These days, Mammoth offers a variety of guided tours, ranging from those that are pretty mild (you can travel in a wheelchair) to some that are kind of wild … perhaps exploring by lantern-light or squeezing through on your hands or knees. Mammoth is an incredibly popular cave, so making a plan and booking your tour early is essential, especially in the summer months. It’s important to note that these days, everyone who enters the cave comes back out again safely, so there’s no fear of someone’s adventure turning into a Broadway musical 100 years from now.
A fun part of any cave tour is experiencing a natural wonder in the dark … but the bonus here is that you don’t have to be underground at Mammoth to do that. This national park is also an official “Dark Sky” park, meaning that the absence of city light results in some incredible stargazing.
In honor of National Caves and Karst Day, make plans to get out there – and get UNDER there – and do some exploring!
Treat your sweetheart to an unforgettable getaway at Charlottesville’s most premiere destination, Keswick Hall. The luxury resort will offer a “Virginia is for Lovers” package for those couples seeking a luxurious, romantic escape this season. Along with premium luxury accommodations, couples who book this experience will receive caviar, truffles, and champagne in their room in addition to $100 resort credit to the resort’s signature restaurant by Jean Georges, Marigold.
Marigold will have a special dinner menu for Valentine’s Day as well. The 4-course tasting menu starts at $138 per person and includes dishes such as roasted beef carpaccio, pumpkin and basil pot stickers, peppercorn crusted beef and a champagne mousse for dessert.Link to menu.
Tucked away in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, Big Cedar Lodge is the ultimate romantic retreat in the Midwest for Valentine’s Day with picturesque views of Table Rock Lake and a variety of experiences inviting couples to spend precious time together on this special day. Embracing the natural beauty of the great outdoors, the resort offers Private Log Cabinsas a classically cozy escape complete with a wood-burning fireplace, luxury tub, private balcony, full kitchen, rustic decor and the charm of the Ozarks.
On Valentine’s Day, couples can celebrate their love over a creative evening at Big Cedar Lodge’s Valentine’s Date Night, where they can decorate candy bars, build a curated charcuterie board and end the night with wood burning a custom design onto a charcuterie board to take home as a keepsake.
Other activities couples can enjoy during their romantic getaway include dining with sunset views at Osage Restaurant, channeling their artistic side with a pottery class, learning mixology to craft artisanal cocktails and much more.
A landmark destination on Northeast Florida’s pristine coastline, guests seeking the ultimate romantic getaway should look no further than TheLodge & Club, where guests can book theStir the Fire Package to enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience inclusive of accommodations in an exclusive oceanfront fireplace suite, daily beach chairs for two and welcome cocktails for two.
Enhance the experience even further with the newRomance Dining Package—a private in-room dining experience that includes waited service and interactive tableside preparation by Executive Chef Cameron Walton. The three-course menu features a variety of dishes including, Caesar salad or jumbo lump crab cake with piquillo pepper buerre blanc, filet mignon and cold-water lobster or chateaubriand (carved tableside), and warm chocolate raspberry lava cake or bananas foster. The private dining experience is available for $150 per person, inclusive of a choice of Sparkling Wine, Chardonnay or Cabernet.
Each guest room and suite at The Lodge & Club is located on the water featuring oceanfront views for the ultimate romantic winter beach getaway.
Located on the pristine beaches of Northeast, Florida, the iconic Ponte Vedra Inn & Club has provided an idyllic coastal escape for decades. Special for Valentine’s Day, couples can enjoy a Valentine’s Day dinner with wine pairings or can reserve the private Chef’s Table experience at Ponte Vedra Inn & Club’s signature fine-dining restaurant, Seahorse Grille, which includes an intimate setting at the heart of the kitchen, where Chef de Cuisine, Erik Osol, will craft a 10-course tasting menu curated for guests’ palates.
At The Spa, couples can re-connect and revitalize in a private room with an array of services designed for two, inclusive of steams, soaks and more within an intimate setting while the spa’s discreet staff caters to couples’ every need. Additionally, couples can book theBed & Breakfast package featuring luxury accommodations, breakfast for two each morning and a welcome amenity upon arrival.
Nestled in the heart of Uptown Dallas, Hôtel Swexan is the perfect haven for romance this Valentine’s Day, exuding European elegance and old-world luxury, yet remaining true to its lovable and unwavering Texan spirit. A family-owned, 134-room boutique concept, Hôtel Swexan was meticulously designed by world-renowned Japanese architect, Kengo Kuma, featuring enchanting rooms and suites to set the stage for unforgettable romantic moments.
An enchanting and relaxing vacation experience perfect for Valentine’s Day, Hôtel Swexan offers the pinnacle of romantic luxury with its exclusive Romance Package.
The offer includes two monogrammed Frette bathrobes, a dozen roses, complimentary champagne, chocolate covered strawberries, and macarons upon arrival, daily full, Swexan breakfast at Isabelle’s, Léonie, or in-room dining, one night’s accommodation for two at Hôtel Swexan, and overnight valet parking. The hotel’s crown jewel is its expansive rooftop infinity pool, perched 20 floors high with 180-degree panoramic views of the mesmerizing Dallas skyline, providing a captivating backdrop for intimate yet photo-worthy memories.
The hotel is uniquely playful and inviting, with an afternoon tea service, martini bar, hidden imbibing outpost, a robust lineup of entertainment, art and wellness facilities, so couples can engage and indulge or relax and recuperate, all within the walls of the expansive hotel. Venturing out, couples can explore the vibrant 19-city-block Harwood District, a flourishing walkable neighborhood chock-full of eateries, art, public parks, multi-use spaces and more.
The Forbes Five-Star oceanfront retreat, Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa, shines as a crown jewel of Florida’s Gold Coast and offers nothing short of glamour and sophistication at every turn. Special for the month of February, treat that special someone to a deluxe in-room dining experience, “Room with a Veuve,” and receive complimentary chocolate covered strawberries with the purchase of a bottle of champagne.
Enjoy a special 4-course Valentine’s Day menu at Polpo Palm Beach in addition to a la carte menu Angle Valentine’s Day Dinner – Open for A La Carte Dining with a special 4-course prefixed menu, indulge in delicious food while immersing in sounds from Chad Micheals on the Grand Piano (5:30 – 9:30pm) Stir (2/9-2/14) – Go beyond a bit of a bubbly or bottle of wine this Valentine’s Day and enjoy a romantic cocktail menu ‘Drunk on Love’ that you are sure to adore. (4pm – 12am)
Set in the heart of Downtown Nashville and originally opened in 1910, The Hermitage Hotel has stood as Nashville’s premier luxury property for more than 110 years.For an ultra-luxurious Valentine’s Day, guests can book The Hermitage Hotel’s Ultimate Romance Package (Starting at $15,000) for an opulent stay in the Hermitage Suite and a one-of-a-kind dinner in The Veranda, a historic space that has hosted some of the most charming and intimate weddings in Nashville.
The couple will have the entire Veranda to themselves while a heartfelt song is created exclusively for the couple and performed during dinner for a true Music City experience.
Package is complete with One Dozen Roses, Rose Petal Turndown, Champagne, Chocolates and Strawberries, and Breakfast in Bed or at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Drusie & Darr by Jean-Georges.
Couples can book the SuiteHeart Romance Package for a $200 Property Romance Credit to be used at the full-service Thompson San Antonio Spa, dining at signature restaurant Landrace, minibar, or parking. Guests will also arrive to a beautiful rose petal setup and a bath/shower welcome amenity for deserving R&R with their loved one.
Not to be missed: cocktails and twinkly city and star views at The Moon’s Daughters, an enchanting indoor-outdoor rooftop restaurant and bar floating high above the River Walk that dazzles from its 20th-story perch over the city. Couples can also indulge in the epitome of romantic bliss with the property’s highly sought-after Cabana Cuddle Up, an experience that seamlessly melds ultimate relaxation with unparalleled luxury.
Begin your journey with an opulent 80-minute massage for two in the exquisite couples’ room, where tranquility and connection intertwine. Following the rejuvenating session, continue the enchantment as you and your favorite person nestle into the sumptuous embrace of one of the poolside daybed cabanas. Here, amid the soothing ambiance, revel in the shared joy of sipping on chilled champagne and partaking in a curated picnic, where every bite is a celebration of love and indulgence. Offer Code = SATROM for Booking Dates: 1/4/2024 – 2/14/2024; Stay Dates: 2/9/2024-2/18/2024
Fall lingers a bit longer in Virginia giving us more time to enjoy the beauty of the season. And those looking for the great escape certainly linger longer at Kingsmill Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia. Maybe it’s because the resort is on 2,900 acres (that’s a lot of fall foliage) of land, or that it’s the only resort in Williamsburg on the fabled James River with sweeping views of the water, or the championship golf, million-dollar spa and massive indoor heated swimming pool. Of course, there’s seemingly endless bike and walking trails, tennis courts and dining options.
Fall also means special value-added savings, packages and programming celebrating harvests, culture, Halloween and Thanksgiving.
The AAA Four Diamond Kingsmill Resort is also well known for having “living room,” as in many of the accommodations feature one, two and three bedrooms and two baths with a living room, kitchen, dining area and even a washer and dryer. It’s ideal for families, couples and friends get-away.
And while many guests are content to stay within the resort, just outside its gates are all the attractions and experiences Williamsburg is famous for such as the scenic drives on the Colonial Parkway to Jamestown Island, or hiking/walking on the short trails of the coastal estuary at York River State Park.
On Saturday through December 18, guests can enjoy the Williamsburg Farmers Market and sample the regions famous farm products, produce, baked goods and even pick up some arts and crafts.
On Water: Rent a pontoon, paddle board, kayak or jet ski at Kingsmill’s marina to see the magnificent colors along the James River.
There is nothing more “fall” than pumpkins. And in Williamsburg, guests will discover Pumpkinville where one can choose one from a family farm or shop for seasonal specialties such as gourds, winter squash, and fall flowers and decorations. There’s even a corn maze for those that like to wander.
In a land as ancient as this (by US standards) there are certain to be super-natural experiences. Haunted houses, ghost walks and spooky carriage rides abound. You can be truly pushed to your scared limits at Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream or just be mildly spooked on a one-hour candlelit tour of old Williamsburg.
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The country’s first documented Thanksgiving was here as well, at Berkley Plantation to be exact (two years before the Pilgrims event in Massachusetts). The first settlers celebrated “a day of thanksgiving to Almighty God,” and ate after fasting. Each year, you can celebrate the event with a living history program, tribal Native American dancers, arts and crafts, and choral music. Kingsmill Resort also offers a major Thanksgiving dinner (go to http://www.kingsmill.com for details).
For more information on Kingsmill Resort check into www.kingsmill.com
