Snow or Sun: AvantStay’s 40 Best Things To Do in Breckenridge

There’s no shortage of great ski resorts in Colorado. But if you and your friends are looking for a mountain escape where the vibe is easy-going and the nightlife is just as plentiful as the outdoor activities, look no further than Breckenridge. Tucked away in the snow-capped Rocky Mountains, just 80 miles outside Denver, Breckinridge charms locals and tourists alike. Here is our list of the best 40 things to do in Breckenridge for the whole family.

This idyllic town holds a rustic appeal you won’t find in most ritzy destinations thanks to its storied history as a gold rush mining town. Since its modest beginnings, Breckenridge has emerged as both a world-class ski town and a four-season getaway for those whose interests gravitate toward an active lifestyle.  

Aside from outdoorsy offerings, an active art scene bolsters Breckinridge’s bohemian appeal. Take a break from the slopes by moseying through the downtown art district and taking in all the public art, open studios, and galleries this seemingly sleepy little town has to offer.

Once the sun sets, trade your snowshoes for dancing shoes and hit the clubs. Between the town’s elegant lounges and unpretentious dives, there are plenty of opportunities to help you and your friends enjoy some cocktails.

How to get around Breckenridge

1. For a dramatic, “avoid-the-highway” approach to the town, those with motorcycles or Jeeps may choose Hoosier Pass to get to Breckenridge. The pass runs through the Mosquito Range of the Rockies at about 11,000 feet, with mesmerizing views above the tree line.

Entry sign for Hoosier Pass in Breckenridge

2. Take a stroll past colorful Victorian homes built between the 1880s and 1890s along the six blocks that comprise Main Street. A $10 walking tour with a guide is available, but not necessary, to see the shops and boutiques, restaurants, bars, galleries and more within the Breckenridge National Historic District. This district is the largest historic district in the state of Colorado.

3. Boreas Pass is a stunning drive just south of Breckenridge, leading to the tiny town of Como. It climbs to 11,000 feet and down in one 22-mile stretch of paved dirt road.

4.  Self-guided walking tours of the many public art installations around town provide art lovers with a cross-section of modern metal sculptures, statues of people and wildlife, installations that move with the wind, large-scale murals, and more. Get a map from the Breckenridge Welcome Center, or download a tour onto your mobile device.

Outdoor adventures to pump your adrenaline

5. Get hooked on ziplining! Unsurprisingly, there are more than half a dozen operators in the area. Top of the Rockies, a company located just north of Copper Mountain, has lines starting at 1,000 feet. Their two-hour adventures cost about $150 and run three times a day. Certain bodyweight restrictions apply.  

6. Catch a thrill by spending a day dog sledding through spectacular spruce forests behind a pack of Siberian Huskies who love to run in both the summer and winter months. Good Times Adventures can set you up with this unique activity for about $140.

Siberian Huskies pull a couple on a dog sled with a Breckenridge mountain range in the back

7. More than a dozen operators in and around Breckenridge offer White water rafting. Breckenridge Whitewater is a good choice for its friendly pricing and wide range of trips – from easy to downright scary. On the Blue River, the water flow depends on release from the Dillon Reservoir above it, so check ahead for accurate trip information.

8. Hiking is Breckenridge’s middle name. Depending on your fitness level and experience, you can take it relatively easy on trails near Spruce Creek, the Blue Lakes, and Aspen Alley, or you can challenge yourself on a five-hour hike to reach Conundrum Hot Springs. Once you arrive, you can soak in a hot, geothermal spring that’s free and revives sore muscles and feet.

9. Contact Breckenridge Snowmobiling to learn about guided tours of various ability levels, rent a machine and go solo, unguided, on trails as far afield as Silverthorne, Frisco, or Dillon. It’s a rush and worth every penny.

10. Consider a half-day trip to Preston, Colorado, just east of Breckenridge. Participate in a guided tour of a ghost town that was home to 150 residents from the 1880s to 1930. It’s a moderate three-mile hike where you’ll see Preston’s former school, shops, and post office, plus a few decaying log homes and iron mines. The cost is $30 in the summer and fall.

11. If you have energy left after a day on the slopes, you can amuse yourself in the evening with a 90-minute haunted-happenings walking tour through town. You’ll be thrilled to hear stories about kidnappings, disappearances, and other eerie stuff, many occurring between 1961 and today. Tickets cost $22 for adults.

A statue of a man sits in the snow outside of a wooden cabin museum in Breckenridge

12. One way to mix things up a bit during a multi-day stay is to head to the town’s state-of-the-art indoor ice arena for an hour or two of ice skating or ice hockey. Rates include equipment rentals.

13. Even more indoor fun can be found at the 88,000-square-foot Breckenridge Recreation Center on Airport Road. Amenities include a rock climbing wall, track, gym, weight room, cardio deck, cycling studio, indoor playground, pool and sauna, aerobics room, and alfresco hot tubs. It is open on weekdays from 5:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. A pass is $75 and is good for six visits.

Arts & culture in Breckenridge

14. Bicycling can be strenuous in this mountain town with its miles of uphill terrain, but Breckers embrace the exercise, and you should, too. Find countless shops for mountain or road bicycle rentals and equipment and paved rides 20-30 miles galore. Many places even offer bike valets to keep your two-wheeler safe, and there’s a drive-in movie night for folks on bikes.

15.  The Arts District is a downtown campus of a dozen or so renovated structures that now serve as residences, artists’ studios, performance venues, and workshop spaces. Take a class in one of the numerous art mediums from watercolor and oils to Plein air, glasswork, and more. The district is a lively spot with occasional open studios and several adjacent places to dine and drink.

Relaxing activities for all

16. Contact Breckenridge Outfitters for fly fishing tours and land yourself a freshwater trout in one of the region’s numerous lakes and rivers. Two-hour, half-day, and full-day sessions are available, as well as river float tours. Prices range from $100-$500 with all the necessary equipment included in the fees.

A woman stands in a body of water holding a fly fishing net with a casted fishing line in front of her

17. Ambika Herbals on North Park Avenue is a calming spa with an all-female staff. It offers Reiki, Ayurvedic, and other types of massages and facials, all using natural and organic products created from locally grown hemp, herbs, and wildflowers. Treatments start at around $75. You’ll want to go home with one of their signature products – from luxurious facial serums and salves to body washes and scrubs.

18. Take your loved ones on a nostalgic sleigh ride, where a team of picturesque Belgian draft horses pulls you through the snow. It’s a brisk but beautiful, 35 to 45-minute adventure and many rides have themes around food, romance, or the old mining life.

Family-friendly activities

19. Highline Railroad Park is a huge hit with kids. This park explains how rail access, beginning in 1882, helped Breckenridge grow and flourish by bringing in goods and attracting settlers.

20. Edwin Carter House is a museum located in the home of a former New Yorker. Carter moved west for mining and became concerned about the effect the region’s growth was having on its flora and fauna. To expose the threat of extinction, he created a display of taxidermy (stuffed animal heads) that kids go wild over! There’s no admission fee for this museum, but be sure to check the website for entry dates and times.

21. Isak Heartstone is the town’s unofficial mascot. He’s a 15-foot smiling troll made entirely of recycled wood scraps by a Danish artist. Hearthstone was recently relocated to Illinois Gulch with a trail leading to his woodsy hideaway.

The wooden mascot of Breckenridge, Isak Heartstone, sits surrounded by tall pine trees and discount snowy mountains

22. Stop in for a peek inside the Sawmill Museum which memorializes the sawmill used to make lumber out of the area’s countless trees. The lumber was used for building schools, churches, fraternal halls, and hotels. The exhibit is open to all and has no admission fee.

23. Pan for gold with Washington and Lomax Gulch Gold Mine Tours. Since Breckenridge was born from gold mining, it pays for visitors to learn how it’s done, and what the hard-scrabble life of a miner was like. Kids and adults pay $15 and can pan for gold themselves in a shallow stream – and keep whatever they might find.

24. Colorado is renowned for its dizzying variety of wildflowers, and you can spot many of them along the Burro Trail in the White River National Forest. The trail follows the course of a burbling stream and is considered intermediate. You can identify seasonal blooms around here based on their colors.

25. With all this beauty surrounding you, you may want to get closer to nature by camping, especially in the warmer months. It’s easy to find accommodations such as tent and RV sites, well-priced rental cabins in the woods, and more.

26. Visit the Barney Ford House to learn about one of the founders of Colorado. Barney was born into slavery but escaped, took the last name of Ford, and embarked on a successful career as an entrepreneur. He traveled widely but landed in Breckenridge, where he and his wife Julia built a grand home and remained active in civic affairs for his entire life. This free tour is best for those with an interest in civil rights or history.

The Barney Ford House in Breckenridge

27. The Alice Milne House is another well-preserved, in-town dwelling that illustrates the old practice of insulating one’s home from the area’s bitter cold. People used various types of available cloth and paper as wall coverings on the interior, pasted over the split logs these cabins were built from.

28. Three blocks from Main Street is Carter Park and Pavilion, bringing the town’s excellent array of summer activities full circle. The pavilion is great for groups and large families, complete with covered picnic tables and a gas fireplace. Beyond the park are softball fields, tennis and pickleball courts, a sledding hill, and a dog park.

Bars & nightlife

29. Breckenridge Distillery Tasting Room is open daily from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m., so that you can taste their 13 locally made varieties of whiskey, plus spiced rum, gin, and aquavit. It’s the ideal Happy Hour destination!

30. The world’s highest-elevation winery is called Continental Divide. The in-town tasting room is open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Twenty-dollar tastings include four tastes in four categories of wine, and of course, if you like them, you can purchase a few to-go bottles on-site. Try CA Sparkling Rosé, Gold Rush Red, Blanc de Blanc, Storm Blend, and the Reserve Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon, all priced between $24-$70.

31. Sipping Victorian Tea at The William Briggle House is an excellent rainy day activity. It’s a great opportunity to learn about how the town’s most affluent women from the early 1900s lived. The actual Mrs. Briggles hosts the tour three days a week.

An AvantStay mug with tea sits atop a bedroom tray next to a plate with a scone and some fruit

Cultural events in Breckenridge

32. What is Ullr? First and foremost, it’s the Norse god of winter. Secondly, it is a 10-day festival in early December that kicks off Breckenridge’s official snow season. For almost 60 years, this annual event has drawn locals and tourists alike in anticipation of a robust ski season, with parades, ice plunges, bonfires, and crowning of the King and Queen.

33. Breckenridge is chock full of summer activities. The July to September season kicks off with a huge town-wide party on the lawn of the Riverwalk Center, a 770-seat performance venue on the banks of the Blue River. It features food, music, merchants, beverages, and fun for the whole family.

Best Breckenridge ski spots

34. Breckenridge Ski Resort is the grand-daddy of them all, with five peaks over 3,000 acres and 187 trails for every skier level. It’s the most visited ski center in the western hemisphere, and has the highest chairlift in North America. You can visit it repeatedly without duplicating a single experience. There’s even an award-winning terrain park for freestyling or snowboarding.

35. Breckenridge Ski Resort has the same owners as resorts in the mountain towns of Vail, Beaver Creek, Park City, Keystone, and Crested Butte. Its EpicPass (sold online) offers a 20% discount on all rentals, lodging, instruction, activities, food, and drink for those who frequent the Rockies and are likely to visit all six resorts.

36. Breckenridge Nordic Center is the place for world-class cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with beautifully groomed trails for all fitness levels. Admission is $25 a day for adults, and you can enjoy a lunch of chowder and grilled Bratwurst in the Center’s rustic tavern. Later in the day, you might want to indulge in the Tavern’s signature cocktail, “Fire in the Mountain.”

Two people cross-country skiing across a snowy bridge in Breckenridge

Best Breckenridge dining options

37. Breckenridge Ski Resort has après ski covered as well. With 15 restaurants perched right on Peaks 7, 8, and 9, the BreckConnect gondola is there to whisk you from town to either of those three peaks in minutes.

38. The oldest pizzeria in Breckenridge is Fatty’s Pizzeria and Sports Bar. It’s the perfect place for the whole family!

39. Hand-crafted cocktails and artisanal wines are just a few delectable items at Blue River Bistro. Start with the Bang’s Island mussels in a coconut-lime-infused broth, and continue with a Shellfish Cioppino of sea scallop, shrimp, more Bang’s island mussels, fresh fish, and Israeli couscous in a spicy tomato broth.

40. Happy Hour at Aurum is a Brecker’s favorite, where restaurant go-ers dine inside of a heated yurt. Wear your winter’s best for this unique dinner experience and be ready for a special chef’s multi-course menu, including an amuse bouche and mignardise.

If you’re looking for a snowy destination with a rich history, one-of-a-kind dining experiences, breathtaking mountain-top views, and fun for the whole family, Breckinridge is the place for you. Enjoy beginner and advanced snow activities, guided tours, and more in this quaint yet exciting Colorado town. Book one of AvantStay’s Breckenridge properties to experience everything this idyllic town has to offer.

The 5 Best Bachelorette Party Destinations to Travel to, plus 10 Themes to Match!

Embark on a bridal journey you’ll just have to say “I Do” to as we help you plan the ultimate bachelorette party! Join us as we count down the FIVE trendiest destinations to celebrate with your Bride’s Babes, with exciting themes to match.

5. Austin, TX

Why Austin? 

Is it hot in here? Maybe, but that’s what makes Austin so lively. Pack your cowboy boots and get ready for a bachelorette bash like no other. With its laid-back charm and a hip, eclectic vibe, Austin is the perfect playground for a relaxed and playful celebration. From dancing the night away on 6th Street to savoring mouthwatering barbecue, Austin promises a weekend filled with good times, great tunes, and unforgettable memories for the bride-to-be and her crew.

Tap here to explore the best places to stay during your bachelorette in Austin

Disco Cowgirl Themed

Chances are after hours of enduring Wedding TikTok, you’ve heard of the theme, Disco Cowgirl: a fusion of boho-western fashion with a touch of that quintessential 70’s dance floor style. Saddle up your squad with cowgirl hats and fringe accessories, and encourage them to flaunt disco-worthy metallic outfits.

Where to stay: Ramsey by AvantStay

Giddyup girls, Ramsey’s got the cutest painted pool shed in an expansive backyard––ready for all your disco dance parties.

Western Themed

You don’t need to go over the top with this Western theme. Fine, you can grab a horseshoe cake topper, snag matching cowgirl hats for the crew, and get shot glasses with the words “giddy up,” but don’t be afraid to lean into the silly side of this theme. Check if anyone’s up for dressing with mustaches or cosplaying bounty hunters—it’s all about embracing the Old West.

Where to stay: Maverick by AvantStay

This home is Western-worthy because of its wooden-paneled exteriors and its private, woodsy location.

4. Palm Springs, CA

Why Palm Springs?

You haven’t done the desert till you’ve done Palm Springs. This sun-soaked oasis nestled in the heart of California’s desert landscape is filled with classic boutique hotels designed for stylish pool parties with unparalleled views of the San Jacinto mountains. From rejuvenating spa experiences to vibrant nightlife on Palm Canyon Drive, this destination promises a chic and laid-back atmosphere, creating the ideal backdrop for a bachelorette weekend filled with sun and style—yes, please!

Tap here to explore the best places to stay during your bachelorette in Palm Springs

Barbie Themed

One of the best parts of Palm Springs is the fact that there are multiple (yes, multiple) pink-themed hotels. In our totally unbiased opinion, we happen to have two of the cutest—The Marley Hotel and The Wesley Hotel—just waiting for you and your crew of Barbie to post up by the pool. Book a few rooms or buy out the whole hotel. Pink stripes, palm trees, and poolside photoshoots are just a few clicks away!

Where to stay: The Marley Hotel

Pink is kind of this hotel’s thing. Bring on all the Barbie vibes.

Retro Themed

Let’s go “bach” in time. Dive into the world of vintage charm by encouraging your party to don flapper dresses, polka dots, or poodle skirts. Perfect your playlist with classic tunes, play nostalgic games like pinning the tail on the donkey, and indulge in retro treats and cocktails for a celebration that’s as timeless and unforgettable as your girls.

Where to stay: Hotel El Cid by AvantStay

Meet the quintessential Palm Springs hotel. El Cid features pool cabanas and towering palm trees as far as the eye can see.

3. Fort Lauderdale, FL

Why Fort Lauderdale?

Beach, please. Sun-soaked beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere—need we say more? A bachelorette party trip to Fort Lauderdale ensures days filled with seaside fun, from basking in the Florida sun to water activities along the Intracoastal. At night, energetic bars and clubs along Las Olas Boulevard come alive. And of course, be sure to take a day trip to Miami; it’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away. 

Tap here to explore the best places to stay during your bachelorette in Ft. Lauderdale

Club Themed

You’re next-door to the club capital of the country, so obviously this theme deserves a moment. Take your “I Do” crew to a Miami pool party, drag show, or get bottle service at an exclusive club (like Club Space). Reserve your table ahead of time to make sure they’ve got space for you and all that energy you’ll be bringing. 

Where to stay: Sea Breeze by AvantStay

We honestly can’t think of a better place to decompress from the club. This home is steps away from beach access and has room for up to 10 guests.

Y2K Themed

Hop in babes, we’re taking a trip down memory lane. Dress your squad in coordinated Juicy sweatsuits, adorn your hair with playful butterfly clips, and decorate everything (literally, everything) with vivid neon hues. Opt for Lisa Frank-esque decor to enhance the nostalgia—because if Lisa Frank decor was meant to be anywhere, it’s in Southern Florida.

Where to stay: Summerfin by AvantStay

A colorful theme deserves a colorful stay. This stay comes with a private pool, hot tub, and bright decor throughout.

2. Scottsdale, AZ

Why Scottsdale?

Scottsdale is any trendy crew’s go-to spot for bridal-themed pool parties, rejuvenating spas, and a surprisingly vibrant arts scene. This destination sets the stage for laid-back celebrations under the AZ sun—think leisurely days by the pool, exploring trendy neighborhoods, and embracing the city’s easygoing atmosphere. Pair that with an expansive vacation rental with a private pool, and you’re ready for your best bach yet. 

Tap here to explore the best places to stay during your bachelorette in Scottsdale

Final Fiesta Themed

As we said, Scottsdale is full of vibrancy and color. Match this town’s vibes by decking out your crew in vibrant sombreros, matching tees, and festive accessories. From sipping margaritas by the pool to indulging in delicious tacos, a Final Fiesta themed bachelorette ensures a tequila-filled weekend as you bid farewell to single life with a touch of spice and loads of fun.

Where to stay: Pueblo Viejo by AvantStay

It doesn’t get much more vibrant than this Southwestern stay! Features a private pool and rooftop lounge.

Desert Oasis Themed

The desert isn’t all prickly pears and cacti—it’s got a plethora of spas and massages just calling your name, especially in Scottsdale. Celebrate the bride’s last single days with a Desert Oasis themed party, where the crew takes turns getting massages, facials, manicures, and pedicures at one of this town’s many day spas. Our favorite: Away Spa.

Where to stay: Desert Lagoon by AvantStay

Take the spa home with you! It’s easy enough here where the natural landscaping includes a pond with a waterfall––mmm, now that’s zen.

1. Nashville, TN

Why Nashville?

We may have saved the best bachelorette destination for last—but can you blame us? You were probably wondering what took us so long to get here, but alas. Enter, Nashville: the Honky Tonk capital of the world, with bustling bars on Broadway, numerous clubs from your favorite country singers, pedal bikes galore, and booze crews ready for you and yours.

Tap here to explore the best places to stay during your bachelorette in Nashville

Last Rodeo Themed

Giddyup! It’s your Bride’s Last Ride and you’ve gotta do it big in the big city. Set up for this theme with matching cowboy boots, daisy-dukes, white tank tops, and customized cowboy hats (we love these LED ones here). Book a booze cruise and let your tour guide handle the rest!

Where to stay: 121 Hotel by AvantStay

Book a few rooms or buy out the whole space. This Midtown hotel is decked with trendy rooms with plenty of space to get ready and even have some in-suite photoshoots.

Dolly Parton Themed

“Let’s go girls” takes on a whole new meaning with this theme. Just 200 miles from Dollywood, Nashville is the proper place to center your bachelorette party around the queen of country. Dress up as a different Dolly from each one of her albums and videos, and get ready to sing at the top of your lungs all night long. 

Where to stay: Dolly by AvantStay

We couldn’t not call out our Dolly home here… you know? This stay has room for 12 and is right next to historic Germantown.

The Best Things To Do in Vail, Colorado

At the base of the Gore Range in the Colorado Rockies and 100 miles from Denver, lies the Vail Valley, a quaint European village full of alpine-style charm. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and soak in the views of the snow-capped peaks as the world’s weight melts away. While best known as one of the top ski areas in the world, there are also endless things to do in the summer. Year-round there is no shortage of world-class outdoor adventures. Here’s a rundown of all the fun things to do on your next trip to the town of Vail, no matter what season you choose to visit.

Tour Vail Village & Lionshead Village

Vail is a mountain town like no other. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped out of Colorado and into a European village. Many of the streets within Vail Village and Lionshead Village are pedestrian-only, so you can stroll down the cobblestone streets and along Gore Creek (or use the free in-town shuttle system) to explore Vail’s shops, restaurants, sports outfitters, and entertainment options. Glide on the ice skating rinks in Vail Square (Lionshead) and Solaris (Vail Village). The two villages blend seamlessly with the ski resort as the Eagle Bahn Gondola (Lionshead Village) and Gondola One (Vail Village) quickly whisk you up Vail Mountain to start your mountain adventure.

Source: Town and Country Magazine

Experience Vail Mountain Resort

Home to one of the most famous ski resorts in North America, Vail, Colorado, has something for skiers and snowboarders of every ability level. One gets a special feeling viewing the endless mountain peaks from the top of Vail Mountain Resort and the seven legendary back bowls. In the warmer months, summer activities like exploring the network of hiking trails and mountain biking trails are great ways to enjoy the wildflower-covered alpine landscape. Epic Discovery delivers a thrill with the Forest Flyer Mountain Coaster, kids’ zipline, and Gore Creek mini golf. If you’re not in a playful mood, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Vail Mountain for dining and 360-degree views of the White River National Forest that will take your breath away.

Dive into Vail’s Culinary Scene

It makes sense that Colorado’s largest ski resort also has a wide array of restaurant selections. From coffee to cocktails, breakfast to après-ski, there’s always an option to excite your taste buds. With so many experiences to choose from, from world-renowned gourmet restaurants like Sweet Basil in Vail Village to more casual family spots like Moe’s BBQ in Lionshead, the Vail restaurant scene has a dining option for any culinary preference and budget. 

Visit Vail Breweries & Distilleries

Looking to grab a craft beer or cocktail after a long day of skiing or hiking? Vail Brewing Company, located in Solaris Plaza of Vail Village, is “veteran and ski bum owned” and delivers fantastic craft beers. 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirits on Bridge Street in Vail Village is Vail’s premier distillery and is the perfect place to try bourbon, rye, moonshine, potato vodka, or the local Alpenglow cordial. 

Source: Vail Daily

Visit the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame

Celebrate Colorado ski heritage and get a feel for the slopes without strapping on the skis at the Colorado Snowsports Museum & Hall of Fame, chronicling Colorado’s skiing history. From the 10th Mountain Division’s WWII history to the more recent Hall of Fame inductees, this collection tells a fascinating story of the birth, rise, and explosion of skiing and snowboarding in Colorado.

Relax at the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens

Within Vail Village is the Ford Park complex, named for President Gerald Ford, who loved to vacation in Vail with his wife, Betty, lies the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. Located just outside of Vail Village, it is one of the highest botanical gardens in the country. Take a break from the hustle and bustle and appreciate the beauty of the high-elevation plants surrounding you and the amazing view of the Gore Range in the distance.

Source: Condé Nast Traveler

Take in a Performance at Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater

The Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail is a spectacular outdoor music venue along Gore Creek that seats 1,260 guests in covered seating and an additional 1,300 on its expansive grassy hillside with a breathtaking view of the Rocky Mountains. Each summer, the amphitheater hosts a wide array of talent, from dance and classical to a weekly concert series with headlining acts.

Stay in a Luxury Vacation Home  

Book a luxurious vacation rental in Vail. If skiing is your main agenda, Cloud 9 is perfectly located less than 5 minutes from Vail Ski Resort. If mountain seclusion is more your style, Bighorn is tucked away in the trees, and Condor is a cabin-style home in an idyllic, natural setting. Or, unwind in style at Highline, a breathtaking mountain home surrounded by snow-capped hills and aromatic pine trees.

Experience the Best of Vail 

Ready to experience the fresh mountain air, natural beauty, and European charm that awaits in Colorado? Find your next vacation home in Vail today!

The 12 Best Corporate Retreat Ideas

Corporate retreats and company “offsites” have never been as important as they are today in the post-COVID era of remote teams who frequently work from home. In-person corporate retreats promote better collaboration among team members, clearer communication, sharper brainstorming, and faster problem-solving, while also reinforcing company culture and positive morale. They also allow co-workers and executives to create personal connections, which is ultimately better for your business. 

But company offsites and retreat activities these days don’t have to be—nor should they be—the awkward, overly programmed, Vegas hotel conference room style events that many people envision when they think about traditional corporate events.

Today’s offsites and retreats—especially for start-ups and companies with Millennial, Gen Y, and Z employees—need to combine creative brainstorming and focused goals along with meaningful leisure and shared experiences in unique locations in order to make them worth the time and expense. Plus, all of these elements help team members to return to work reinvigorated.

For corporate executives and HR professionals doing the retreat planning, this means defining your objectives upfront, blending free-flowing games and activities with purposeful meetings and strategy sessions, and most importantly ensuring adequate free time for team bonding and relationship building.

It also means that in addition to where you’re going, it’s essential to think about how you’re staying. While mega hotels with sprawling meeting rooms can still be efficient and economical, private vacation rentals that offer more personalized accommodations, like open living and gathering spaces, full kitchens and bathrooms, and interconnected outdoor areas, can create a much more conducive retreat environment for a creative mix of corporate work and experiential play.

So, if you’re responsible for the planning process and looking for creative corporate retreat ideas for your next company getaway, here are 12 that will be sure to create a one-of-a-kind experience at any time of year that your employees will never forget—and will improve the performance of your entire team in the long term.

employees enjoying water sports on a company retreat

1.  Take to the Water

Getting out on the water is soulfully exhilarating, mentally challenging, and physically stimulating. And doing certain activities on the water requires teams to work and perform tasks together, so it’s an ideal way to reinforce the relationships and responsibilities that team members need to be comfortable with in their everyday work.

Guided aquatic activities like a sailing charter,  canoeing, kayaking, or standup paddle boarding with a professional tour company will also give you and your co-workers the opportunity to get out on the water and work together. That means great views, the wind freely blowing through your hair, experiencing unique ecosystems and wildlife, and unobstructed sunsets which will put your teams at ease and in a relaxed state of mind in addition to promoting camaraderie and a healthy company culture.

playing a team sport on a corporate offsite is a recommended activity

2.     Play An Easy Team Sport

Team sports that are fun and easy to play, but also focus everyone on a shared goal—literally and metaphorically—are ideal to incorporate into your next company retreat or offsite. 

Team sports encourage in-person physical activity, form stronger interpersonal relationships, and are also a great icebreaker for new employees or executives to get to know one another.

Pickleball, volleyball, kickball, capture the flag, scavenger hunts, and ultimate frisbee are all great corporate retreat team sports, particularly for large groups, since they’re low impact, don’t require a lot of expensive equipment or complicated facilities, and simple to pick up if someone hasn’t played them before. Plus, they’re fun—especially when you win!

riding bikes on a company offsite is a great way to get fresh air

3.     Get Some Fresh Air

No matter where or when you’re planning your next retreat, sometimes nothing is easier or more rewarding for employees than the simple act of getting outside. Hiking, biking, spending time by the pool, relaxing by a fire pit, or having an al fresco dinner around an outdoor dining table can do miracles for team morale and emotional health. It can also promote better, more free-flowing communication between team members. 

If your team is on the more adventurous side, activities like zip lining, rock climbing, or the challenge of a ropes course can also be great to add to your itinerary. 

have a game night with the team on your corporate offsite

4.     Plan a Late-Night Game Night

On the back of a long day of brainstorming about company strategy and participating in organized team-building activities, game night can be an amazing way to end the night. After a happy hour or dinner, gather around a large table for a little late-night competition and laughs. Some classic favorites include casino night, trivia, charades, and bingo. 

If you have a larger group of people, breaking up into smaller teams for board games like Pictionary or Monopoly is also a great way to combine a little brain-stimulating fun and healthy competition with team building and creative collaboration.  

karaoke with your teammates is a popular activity on a company offsite

5.     Sing Together

Few things are able to unite an entire team better and faster than being in a situation that makes people feel vulnerable. So, unless co-workers have the voice of Mick Jagger or Taylor Swift nothing is more certain to produce heartier laughs and fun memories at a company retreat than an evening of open mic karaoke.

If you’re hosting your offsite at a vacation rental, karaoke is also an ideal activity to get everyone together in a private, central location without needing to rent separate meeting rooms or another venue altogether.

team unloading for corporate retreat

6.     Explore a New Place

Discovering a new place or learning something new together stimulates curiosity and communication in addition to promoting interpersonal bonding and creativity. It’s also a simple and inexpensive way for co-workers and team members to discover their own common interests, especially if your company retreat is hosted in a town or new city that’s not where your business is based.

The act of “going local” together can be free-form and spontaneous, like taking a neighborhood tour of local artists’ murals and installation art. Or it can be more planned and structured, like doing a farm-to-table restaurant crawl.

Either way, getting familiar with a new town is one of the best—and simplest—in-person team bonding activities to schedule for your next retreat. Some companies even offer dedicated on-the-ground concierge services and specialize in booking local outings, which can help from the planning point of view. 

team enjoying snacks at corporate retreat

7.     Allow For Zen Moments

Work can be stressful—no matter how well your team problem-solves together. Add in the realities of raising a family and commuting to and from work (for those who still don’t work remotely), and it’s likely your employees haven’t had a minute to really “have a moment of zen” for months.

So, if you’re responsible for retreat planning, schedule time for wellness on your next offsite to allow team members to slow down and decompress with one another. Morning yoga, an afternoon meditation, or a bonfire and stargazing night are all great options that are sure to get everyone in a better zen-like frame of mind to be their best back at work.

team cooking during offsite

8.     Turn Up The Heat

In a cooking class, that is. Countless Hollywood romance movies have inspired and reminded us about the power of food and how it can bring people together. In this case what applies to love also works in business.

Breaking bread (and making it) with co-workers in a test kitchen or taking a cooking class with a professional chef is a great way to break down boundaries, learn to work better as a team, promote unexpected creativity, and most importantly, make sure everyone is well fed.

An all-hands-on-deck potluck or dinner party for your team at a vacation rental in a culinary destination like Napa Valley with a chef’s kitchen can also accomplish the same objectives without the formality and expense of a professional cooking class.

volunteering during corporate offsite

9.     Give Back

Being able to help your co-workers or staff when they need it—whether that’s in the pursuit of a company objective, closing a sale, or solving a problem—is one of the most important parts of being a successful team member.

So, as part of your next company retreat or offsite, set aside some time for team members to volunteer together. If your company is in the real estate business, volunteer for Habitat for Humanity for a day. If you own a restaurant, have your team help plant vegetables at a local farmer’s market for underserved communities. 

Few things strengthen the bonds between people faster and will make your corporate retreat experience more meaningful than sharing the pride that comes with helping out and supporting a worthy cause.

team exercising on corporate offsite

10.  Get The Adrenaline Up

Of all the fun activities that you’re planning as part of your next company offsite, don’t forget to give your teams and co-workers the opportunity to get their adrenaline up before or after a day of meetings and brainstorming sessions.

Hitting the dopamine button with activities like go-cart racing, going to an amusement park, trying trapeze, flying high in a waterfront ferris wheel, or watching an experiential IMAX theater movie are proven to create better team building energy, develop deeper trust, and promote longer-term loyalty.

So, whether you host your next company offsite in a buzzing downtown business district or in a remote resort town in the middle of the mountains, make sure to plan team-building activities that will also stimulate your employees’ adrenal glands and funny bones as well as their problem solving and creative abilities.

company retreat doing an escape

11.  Plan An Escape

No, unfortunately, we’re not talking about a spontaneous vacation to a private Caribbean island here (though that would probably be high on most people’s company retreat wish lists).

We’re talking escape rooms a.k.a. “exit games” where teams are challenged to work together to get themselves out of a theme-based room in an immersive adventure game using clues to accomplish incrementally harder tasks and tests while the clock is ticking.

Escape room themes run the gamut: nuclear reactor meltdowns, zombie apocalypses, prison breaks, and murder mysteries. Whichever you choose for your team, escape rooms literally and figuratively will have them problem-solving, communicating under pressure, and most of all, laughing all the way to safety.  

employees relaxing during company offsite

12.  Do Absolutely Nothing

While planned activities are great to keep everyone entertained, giving your team free time—and space—to do their own thing on a retreat is just as important. Whether that’s running, reading, napping, or a quick Netflix binge, downtime will help them feel “off the clock”  even while onsite at a retreat. 

All-in-all, small moments like a fire pit at sunset, a cold beer by the pool, and some good music can frequently do far more to help your team open clearer lines of communication, find common ground, and elevate corporate culture than a hundred overpriced corporate consultants.

8 Bedroom Vacation Rentals: The Ultimate Guide

In the world of travel, few experiences can match the sheer delight of being able to host your nearest and dearest under one roof. Whether it’s for a much-needed family reunion, a fantastic 50th birthday party, or an epic bachelorette, there’s something truly special about having an expansive vacation rental for your group. This is where our 8-bedroom vacation rentals come in—offering not just space, but the blueprint for hosting your ideal getaway.

Join us as we discover 8 of the best 8-bedroom vacation homes—complete with private pools, hot tubs, gorgeous yards, and plenty of space for everyone to spread out!

1. Ridge View – Smoky Mountains, TN

Come here for a stay with a gorgeous wooden pavilion, hot tub, and sprawling decks (yes, decks) for all your gathering needs. Inside, revel in the open living space, a sleek kitchen, and eight bedrooms, each with their very own bathroom! Just 15 minutes from Pigeon Forge and a short drive from Gatlinburg and Dollywood, Ridge View is your ultimate mountain escape.

2. River Rock – Breckenridge, CO

Introducing River Rock, your cozy group-friendly ski retreat nestled among the pine trees. Just a quick bus ride from Peak 8 and a short walk to Breckenridge’s Main Street, coming back to this welcoming haven is truly an ease (and delight). Enjoy the home’s stone-walled fireplace, spacious kitchen, game room/home theater, and multiple living areas for groups to spread out. After a day of adventure, unwind in the hot tub or sip a drink on the gazebo.

3. Destin Oasis – Destin, FL

Enjoy all the perks and space within this newly built Destin home, Destin Oasis, with a private pool, hot tub, game room, and a spacious outdoor living area. Inside, the open floor plan boasts a stylish living room with a large flat-screen TV, a beautifully appointed kitchen with modern appliances, and a generous dining space. To make things even better, beach gear rental credit is included for qualifying stays, making this the perfect stay for you and your XL crew!

4. La Barrique – Temecula, CA

Welcome to La Barrique, where luxury meets serenity in the heart of Temecula’s vineyards and mountains. This stunning property offers a range of activities, from picnics on the lawn to poolside ping pong, beach volleyball, and even poolside yoga. As the sun sets over the mountains, gather around the firepit for marshmallow roasting or soak in the hot tub with a glass of local wine.

5. Starlight Estate – Coachella Valley, CA

Hey bachelorette groups—we’re looking at you. Starlight Estate in Coachella Valley boasts an exclusive indoor tennis court with air conditioning, ensuring endless fun regardless of the weather. When it’s time to cool off, a luxurious pool area with waterfalls and a jetted hot tub awaits. Dine with your “I Do Crew” with a view in the covered lounge area, sip cocktails at the bar and grilling area, or relax on the additional terrace. Let your crew’s desert adventure begin!

For even more vacation homes with private tennis courts, check out our blog here!

6. Bottlenose – Destin, FL

Discover Bottlenose, a serene 8-bedroom retreat just a short ten-minute stroll from Miramar Beach. This coastal haven offers an inviting backyard oasis with a pool, outdoor dining area, and a relaxing patio adorned with a hammock. Inside, you’ll find a tasteful sea-inspired design in the living area, dining space, and a well-appointed kitchen with a spacious island and barstool seating.

7. Smokey’s Paradise – Smoky Mountains, TN

This one’s for that family reunion we mentioned. Smokey’s Paradise (in the Smoky Mountains, of course) is a modern mansion with room for 22 guests. It offers family-fun features like an indoor pool, hot tub, and game room. The chef’s kitchen, equipped with double fridges and freezers, makes cooking a joy. Downstairs, the game room awaits with pool, shuffleboard, and foosball.

Ready to dive into vacation rentals with indoor pools? Check out our blog with more here!

8. Rendezvous – Destin, FL

Get ready for an incredible beach getaway at Rendezvous. This fabulous Destin beach house is all about style and comfort, perfect for large groups ISO sunny days and vacays. With coastal-inspired design in every room, you’ll find yourself in breezy spaces with comfy furnishings, soft linens, and that chic all-white look. Think mornings on the balcony, poolside days, game room fun, evenings in the hot tub, and catching the sunset from the rooftop with a cozy fire pit.

Experience the Best of Group Travel and Stay with AvantStay

If you’re searching for the perfect places to stay with a large group, our vacation rentals have just what you need. Spend the day indulging, then return to a peaceful home-away-from-home with all the amenities (and more) that you’re already used to. Comfortable bedrooms, spacious backyards with pools and spectacular views are just some of the things you’ll enjoy during your stay. We look forward to having you!

Want more tips for your next trip? See more of our blogs here:

7 Best Ways To Stay Active While Traveling

You love to travel but you also finally got your routine down at home to stay active (we love a daily hot girl walk, too). We all want to keep our health in tip-top condition while we’re out adventuring, so here are a few tips we’ve pulled together from our experts to be active on vacation. 

If you’re like us, you have probably been eager to jump back into traveling after a few years of missing out. We desperately want to get back to checking off our bucket list too, but we also know more than ever how important it is to stay healthy both physically and mentally. Remarkably, 42% of fitness-focused US travelers are ready to change their typical workout routines and adapt to the surroundings, trying some other types of exercise and travel workouts.

Let’s discuss how you can travel and stay active with a few helpful tips below.

How To Stay Active While Traveling

people biking on vacation to stay fit

1. Try something new outdoors

First, let go of those sky-high expectations you’ve got about keeping up your exact exercise routine while you’re traveling. Remember that you’re on vacation—you’re in a new place and with that, comes really fun diverse ways to keep yourself active that you may not normally be able to do at home. Develop your strategy in advance by doing a little research into where you’re headed.
Our favorite way to stay active is with outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, swimming, skiing, and so much more. Look into nearby trails, parks, or mountains to explore whatever piques your interest.
Even if your version of getting outdoors is a walk around the neighborhood to the beloved local coffee shop, we call that a win.

Many AvantStay homes are located near national and state parks, golf courses, oceans and lakes, and other great opportunities to try a new activity.

You may enjoy Temecula, with its biking, horseback riding, and golfing, or you may go with a desert destination like Scottsdale to hike for a bit of cardio and a lot of spectacular sunset views. Scottsdale is also a well-known popular location for golfers, with around 200 area golf courses to enjoy. Here are a few more of our favorite outdoor activities to do on vacation:

  • Swimming
    If you love a refreshing dip, here are a couple vacation homes with the coolest pools to swim in. Spice up your swimming experience with one of our favorite pools with water slides and swim-up bars, perfect to cool off in and relax after your workout.
  • Tennis
    Tennis is another great recreational activity for you to enjoy on vacation. Take a peek at our list of vacation homes with private tennis courts and invite your favorite doubles partner for an active and enjoyable stay.
  • Volleyball
    Shore up your well-being in Malibu’s volleyball clubs, or right on the beach with a pickup game. This paradise on the Pacific encourages a little fun in the sun in any weather or season.
  • Snowboarding and skiing
    If you’re an avid skier, stay active and pump your adrenaline in Breckenridge. Or book a snowy escape to another one of the country’s best skiing and snowboarding hotspots – Park City, Utah.
  • Mountain biking
    Mountain biking is a popular activity in the mountains around Big Bear, and you’ll find a trail for any level nearby. Quite a few trails enjoy a view of the lake, so pack a lunch and make sure to plan time for a quick stop to enjoy the scenery.
  • Watersports
    In the mood for watersports? You can rent kayaks, powerboats, jet skis, etc. to really take advantage of all that Lake Tahoe has to offer during the summer.
vacation rental equipped with sports facilities

2. Choose a vacation rental with built-in fitness facilities

By renting a vacation home or hotel with a home gym or fitness facility, you automatically guarantee yourself an easy place for a fun workout.

“Some vacation rentals can boast dedicated fitness centers, while others have gyms nearby. Use these opportunities to avoid interrupting your training schedule when traveling,” recommends Tim White, Founder of milepro.

“You may scroll through reviews and travel guides to see what other guests say about these facilities. What exercise machines do they have? Are they in a good condition? What about a swimming pool? Is there enough space? Also, there may be circumstances, when you’re not staying in the hotel but want to use their gym/pool. You should clarify whether non-guests can access it and on what conditions,” Tim adds.

In this case, you might need to have a membership to start your travel workout routine and enjoy the perks of a luxury resort without staying there.

If you would like to try some sports activities on your next getaway, check some recommendations below.

group with travel workout equipment on vacation

3. Bring your workout equipment along

Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting that you bring your entire collection of weights with you. There are great options out there for lightweight, travel-friendly, packable workout items that you can bring on vacation without having to check another bag. 
According to Matt Scarfo, NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Resident Training & Nutrition Expert at Lift Vault, “There should be sport-specific necessities and the basics on such a list. When I’m heading on a vacation abroad, the top five travel workout items on my packing list are sports clothing, sneakers, a jump rope, a resistance band, and a water bottle. Don’t forget about drinking enough water during the day, especially if you’re engaged in an intensive physical activity.”
Travel workout equipment should be lightweight and on-the-go-friendly. Think about what types of activities you’ll enjoy doing the most, and pack only what works best for you. In addition to the recommendations above, we love wrist and ankle weights, push-up handles, or a swim cap and goggles. Don’t forget headphones—there’s nothing worse than working out in total silence. 

yoga mats set up in a joshua tree vacation rental

4. Use an online fitness platform

Aside from helping you stay healthy and active during your vacation, online fitness tools or platforms are also a great way to travel smarter and cheaper.
Create a travel workout plan customized to you with the P.volve training strategy. It combines resistance training and functional movement to activate your body and strengthen your muscles.

lady doing yoga at a coachella valley vacation rental

5. Breathe deeply with yoga

Whether or not you already have a yoga practice at home, yoga is such a great way to stay active while you’re traveling because it requires few accessories and it’s even better done outdoors with a great view, in our opinion. The advantages of yoga are backed by studies and you can enjoy them during your trip!

One of the great things about yoga is you can really do it anywhere that you have room to roll out a mat. Find a calm spot in a local park or at a local yoga studio—most studios offer drop-in spots for their classes. 

Personally, we also enjoy when our vacation rental itself has a space to do yoga. Whether you’re rolling out a mat on the rooftop or backyard, or whether your vacation home even has a yoga studio like Scoot in Austin, TX, your next 
Are you thinking, “wait, a yoga mat takes up so much space in my luggage!”
We’ve definitely wondered the same thing, but here’s a trick – you can do yoga off the mat! Our favorite place is with a great view, like one of our Lake Arrowhead cabins, for example, where you can try lakeside to energize your body, as well as meditation to soothe your mind. Fill yourself with positive thoughts and get an unforgettable experience at the beautiful Lake Arrowhead.

bikes in front of a scottsdale vacation rental

6. Opt to walk everywhere you can

Guided walking tours (or even a little random walking adventure) can enrich your travel experiences and boost your health. If you prefer a walk with a few opportunistic stops at local shops and wine bars, we highly recommend you take a happy hour walking tour in Paso Robles through downtown to sample local wines and olive oils along the way.

Or if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle and get out of town, choose a destination with a nearby national or state park to really enjoy the calmness and beauty of nature. For example, you might consider our travel guide to North Charleston, SC with its Park Circle, Riverfront Park, and Wescott Park. 

We also love that Austin offers an opportunity to explore the city and get outside for a bit of hiking. It’s a great way to help you get rid of stress, improve your mood, and boost overall wellness, research says.

If you’re looking for a West coast hiking adventure, we suggest you explore our best hikes near Los Angeles or Lake Tahoe trails for hikers.

woman doing exercises from her desk

7. Do mini-exercises while waiting

When you’re traveling, you probably end up spending more time than you’d like standing in lines, whether you’re in the airport security line or waiting to buy tickets for a museum.

Use these minutes to do mini workouts. In fact, John Gardner, Co-Founder & CEO of Kickoff, emphasizes that “Exercising in quick bites contributes greatly to your holistic wellness and the physical condition of your body, in particular.”

John also adds that “The best time for a mini travel workout is when you’re standing in the line at the biggest tourist attraction or waiting for a train, bus, plane, etc. As another option, you may try some in-car workouts for your neck, arms, chest, shoulders, and spine, if you’re stuck in a traffic jam, for instance.”

If you find yourself waiting outside with some free space around you, consider starting with a few moments of breathwork and then a few full-body movements and stretches.

Travel, Stay Active, and Healthy

Nowadays, we know to prioritize our health even when we’re on vacation. Use these tried-and-tested ways to keep up an active lifestyle while you’re out seeing the world, checking things off your bucket list. Use every single opportunity to move, make fun active plans with outdoor activities, look for fitness facilities, and pack the important workout items you need for a great workout. 

Find a vacation home perfect for your active needs in over 100 destinations across the country with AvantStay. You can explore our properties here or download the app to compare vacation rentals.

Happy and healthy traveling with AvantStay!

The Best Vacation Rentals on Golf Courses – Luxury Rentals for Your Next Getaway

Why did the golfer wear two pairs of pants? In case he got a hole in one!

Okay, we promise to not be that cheesy, but with a topic like golf, it’s kind of hard to steer clear of the dad jokes. Whether you’re living your cart girl fantasy (no judgment), or genuinely like to play golf, these vacation rentals on golf courses are here to set the par for your next getaway. 

1. Greg Norman Estate – La Quinta, CA

Night swims are a must at this Coachella Valley home. Hop into the hot tub and cheers to views, brews, and a good day on the course. Located on the 2nd fairway of the prestigious Greg Norman Course in PGA West, this vacation home is the perfect retreat for the golfer in your life (and if you’re in this article, it’s safe to say you have one). Enjoy poolside days with a nice breeze provided by the misters and a huge built-in bar for your crew’s wannabe bartender. With views of the mountains, desert, and course, the Greg Norman Estate is a sight for sore eyes.

2. Fairway Ski and Golf Retreat – Park City, UT

Fairway Ski and Golf Retreat is a 4-bed stay with room for up to 10 guests. Conveniently positioned in between the golf course and ski lift, this retreat brings all you need for an active getaway. After a day filled with all Park City has to offer, enjoy a nice soak in the hot tub. Retreat indoors for a fireside sesh where you and the crew can get the game plan for whatever tomorrow brings – and if you check out our Park City guide, there’s a lot on that list.

3. Quinta Green – La Quinta, CA

This one’s a true winner. From its sleek interiors, to its hot tub and hammock, to an oh-so inviting pool, Quinta Green in Coachella Valley is looking a lot like your next vacation home. This stay is stacked with 7 rooms, 11 beds, and room for up to 16 guests! Here you’ll be surrounded by golf courses, day spas, and dreamy mountain ranges. Looking for more to do during your stay? Check out our 25 Best Things to Do in Coachella Valley for an itinerary-style guide. 

4. Clint at Brasada Ranch – Powell Butte, OR

Clint is located within the Brasada Ranch community in Central Oregon. Enjoy the community’s elevated golf range, indoor gym, day spa, basketball court, indoor pool, beach volleyball court, putting green, and TBH so much more but we really need to tell you about this house! This stay has a beautiful deck with a BBQ and fire pit overlooking the mountains. The interiors are warm, welcoming, and you’ve got room for you and up to 12 guests. When you’re done re-reading the list of amenities, maybe you’ll even have time to check out Mt. Bachelor for some skiing. 

5. Moonshine – La Quinta, CA

Come to Moonshine for an unforgettable Coachella Valley vacation, with a pool that flows seamlessly into the PGA Golf Course so you can either watch the birds above or aim for birdies on the course. Filled with modern interiors, a cozy fireplace, and an outdoor kitchen, it’s no wonder Tyra Banks used to live in this decadent home. We’re assuming she was an entertainer, too, because this stay comes with all you need to host the gathering of your dreams with tons of indoor seating, a wet bar, foosball, and a lavish outdoor seating area.


About AvantStay: If you find yourself looking for a travel experience that values your privacy, safety, and cleanliness, AvantStay is the perfect fit. Apart from their top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo locations—places you’ve been dying to check out, with experiences you’re ready to check off your bucket list—like staying on a golf course.

Smoky Mountain Vacation Rental Outperforms Market Competition

Challenge: Help short-term rental stand out in a saturated market to drive more bookings and maximize owner revenue 

Living room in AvantStay vacation rental hom

Background

Dave is a short-term rental investor with several homes in the Pigeon Forge area. He reached out to AvantStay in 2021 for our vacation rental management services when he learned about our dedicated local support teams and elevated guest offerings. 

Performance

Chart of AvantStay performance vs. Smoky Mountain market performance

Solution & Results

Game room in AvanStay Smoky Mountain vacation rental

Vacation rentals in the Smoky Mountains tend to be similar, so Dave wanted to work with a company whose offerings would set his home apart from the competition. Leveraging our award-winning design and procurement teams, industry-leading distribution, and exclusive guest services like in-app upgrades and experiences, Dave’s home consistently outperforms his market cohorts.

After 15 months with AvantStay, Dave’s home has generated over $390,000 in gross revenue, drives steady bookings at high ADRs, and receives praise from guests on cleanliness, communication, and value. 

“Josh, the area manager, went above and beyond to make sure every detail was perfect,” said AvantStay guest Theresa C. “We were welcomed with beautiful flowers in every room, new family board games, a s’mores kit, and wine. We requested to have a cooler brought over and one was delivered within hours, including ice! The level of service AvantStay provides is amazing!”

Interested in learning more about vacation rental management with AvantStay? Our experts are ready to help! Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.

How To Master a Workcation: 4 Steps to Working Remotely in a Vacation Rental

We all need a vacation, but sometimes it’s just not possible to fit one in your work schedule, which is why I’m a huge fan of working vacations, or, portmanteau-ed, “workcations.” 

Big amongst the remote work set, workcations are a way to stay in a new location, spend your work hours doing your job, and explore a different city, state, or region in your offhours. Workcations gained popularity over the pandemic when the lines between home and office started to blur. After being cooped up at home, many felt that it would be better to work anywhere else—hence, the now popularity of workcations.

People with flexible work schedules might find it easier to take workcations, as they can work and play on their own time. However, regardless of the flexibility of your work schedule, if you are a remote worker, workcations are always an option. 

Benefits of Workcations

There are quite a few benefits to workcations, including increased productivity and refreshed creativity from a change of scenery. Working from a beautiful vacation home, poolside, or coffee shop offers employees a great escape from the mundane, and is a great perk to offer for employee fulfillment. And of course, having a workcation somewhere you’ve always wanted to travel allows you to take the time to explore a new city without having to go fully out of office.

Follow These 4 Steps to Plan the Perfect Workcation:

Step 1: Map It Out

Planning ahead for a workcation involves a number of different moving parts, and it’s important to get all your ducks in a row for yourself and your team. So, in no particular order, you should: 

  • Choose a destination
  • Find a work-ready home to stay in
  • Talk to your boss and team about your plans for what is necessary for you to work successfully (and happily) in a different location. 

When choosing a destination, there are some considerations you’ll want to keep in mind. For example, if your job has strict hours and the rest of your team is in one timezone, you might want to search for a workcation rental in the same time zone. If you have a flexible work schedule, you’ll have more freedom to choose any destination your heart desires. As long as you show up for meetings and get your work done, you can go wherever you would like. You should also make sure your destination is somewhere you can enjoy given the constraints of your hours—if you plan on working during the day, a location where there isn’t much nightlife may be a less-than-optimal choice. Take a look at all of AvantStay’s destinations to figure out which works best for you.

Finding a home is the easy and fun part thanks to AvantStay’s Remote Work Collection. They considered the comfort of a workspace, productive lighting, and speed of wifi when putting it together, and it’s a great resource to discover homes that are genuinely conducive to the remote working environment. There are even options for people who wish to co-work in person!

Talking to your employer about your workcation will look different for everybody, but it’s key to remote working success. Discuss schedule demands, possible interruptions in workflow, and potentially get ahead on upcoming work so you can make the most of your workcation. If you’re a manager, you should also make sure to communicate with your team what your plan is. If there are assignments due while you’re gone, make sure to tell all stakeholders who those should go to. Ensure there will be times that you can answer questions, even if you’re out of the time zone you would typically be working in. 

Step 2: Preparation, Preparation, Preparation

At home as remote workers, we have all the supplies we need, even the ones we don’t think we do. It’s easy to stay productive in an environment you have designed to encourage your own productivity. It’s important to also find a new environment that is designed for your productivity. Little things make a big difference here because it’s the little things that distract from big tasks. 

Consider things like:

  • Climate: Will you be working outdoors or indoors? How hot/sunny will it be?
  • Noise level: Will there be kids and/or “adult kids” running around?
  • Physical comfort: Will you be wearing the same clothes to work as you do to explore?

Your sample workcation packing list:

  • Notepad or notebook
  • Pen
  • Laptop
  • Portable monitor, keyboard, & mouse (if you use them at home)
  • Surge protector or extension cord
  • Charging cords for everything
  • Noise-canceling headphones
  • Comfortable and work-ready clothing (especially if you are on Zoom calls often)
  • Lighting (depending on where you intend on working)

Step 3: Stay On Top Of It

Productivity may be the most important factor to consider when planning your workcation, but it is also the most logistically difficult to prepare for. Vacations are fun and distracting, and if you don’t think you’ll be able to work, don’t plan on having a workcation. Try to be as realistic as you can about how much time you will have to devote to work (full-time? part-time?) and plan accordingly, communicating with your boss throughout.

At the end of the day, you know what keeps you productive. If it’s a 15-minute break every two hours, go for it. If it’s a snack every so often, keep them nearby. If it’s good lighting, make sure you will be in a space that is conducive to that. Productivity is different for everyone, and while we recommend keeping a schedule and working in a comfortable environment, what those things look like will vary depending on the person. Ultimately, the more you stay true to yourself about these elements, the more personal and professional success you will have on your workcation.

Step 4: Experience the Local Culture

The “cation” part of workcation is important to remember. If your work allows, get out and experience the culture of where you are during the day. This could mean working from a local cafe for a few hours or jogging around the neighborhood you’re staying in at night. 

If you’re finding it tough to get away from your computer even on your workcation, consider hiring a local chef to cook your dinner. Use the AvantStay app to book upgrades and experiences like a private chef or fridge stocking during your stay.

With the tips above, you’ll definitely be set to take on a workcation. Although it might feel intimidating the first time after you’ve done it once and found your groove it’ll feel just like working at home. 

Not quite ready to take on a workcation yourself? A team offsite can have a similar impact on your work. Consider an AvantStay home for your next offsite or drop a hint to your boss – they’ll likely appreciate it! 

30 Best Things To Do in Fort Lauderdale: The Venice of America

Fort Lauderdale is a year-round oceanfront getaway in South Florida with endless activities for couples, families, and friends to enjoy year-round.
In fact, whether you’re a local or just visiting for spring break or a weekend, there are so many cool things to experience in and around this beachside city that it can be hard to decide what to do first.

Twenty-five miles north of Miami, Fort Lauderdale is just a short drive from Miami’s lively nightlife, award-winning restaurant scene, and unparalleled shopping districts, but it has the benefit of fewer crowds.

That makes Fort Lauderdale an idyllic place to spend some time lounging in the Sunshine State’s perfect weather, exploring the many nearby attractions, or taking in its picturesque canals, while never feeling too far removed from Miami’s buzzing and diverse international energy.

So, if you’re planning a trip to South Florida or Fort Lauderdale, we’ve got you covered —from kayak adventures and airboat tours to the best shopping, entertainment, and outdoor experiences.
With this list of the 30 best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll be perfectly prepared to experience all of the fun in the sun that you can handle in the “Venice of America.”

Let’s jump in!

swimming at Fort Lauderdale beach is a must-do thing to do in Ft Lauderdale

1. Swim at Fort Lauderdale Beach

Fort Lauderdale Beach is a must-visit if you’re passing through South Florida. This seven-mile stretch of white sand and crystal blue ocean—famous for its reputation as a Spring Break Mecca—is within walking distance of Las Olas Boulevard (#3 on this list) and close to many of Fort Lauderdale’s top-rated restaurants like Gianni’s Table

You can enjoy swimming, jet skiing, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, sunbathing, and more at Fort Lauderdale Beach without ever running out of things to do. 

The Fort Lauderdale Beachfront promenade also has scenic walking and biking paths lined with palm trees and benches along the ocean, making it the perfect spot to stop for a little sightseeing or indulge in some ice cream.

2. Explore the Everglades

The Everglades are not technically in Fort Lauderdale. But this iconic National Park is located just west of the city and is absolutely worth visiting especially if you’re a nature lover or looking for adventure. 

The Everglades wilderness comprises the largest area of contiguous wetlands in America and is the perfect place to get face-to-face with South Florida’s spectacular beauty, birdlife, and wildlife, or maybe even spot an alligator or a Florida Panther, among other fun things. 

Everglades National Park protects 1.5-million hectares of wetlands from environmental harm and there are multiple interpretive centers and exhibits throughout the Park that explain to visitors the importance and rarity of this vital, tropical ecosystem. Families, couples, and friends looking for a little more of an adrenaline-boosting experience also can enjoy airboat tours, kayak rides, or an alligator safari through the Everglades.

shopping on Las Olas Blvd is at the top of the things to do fort lauderdale list

3. Shop on Las Olas Boulevard

You can’t go to downtown Fort Lauderdale without taking a stroll down Las Olas Boulevard. Shopping along Las Olas—frequently referred to as the Rodeo Drive of South Florida—is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale because it has everything you need to shop until you drop. 

Swanky stores, boutique shops, and iconic brands line this manicured street near the ocean. And when hunger or thirst strikes, there are dozens of nearby restaurants and bars to satiate your cravings and fuel your second wind. You also might just spot a celebrity or two. 

4. Suntan at Hollywood Beach

Hollywood Beach is one of the popular Fort Lauderdale beaches. The soft sand makes Hollywood Beach an ideal spot to unfurl a blanket or towel and enjoy a picnic or tanning session. Be sure also to bring your bathing suit since the clear blue Atlantic Ocean will beckon you in especially if you visit in the middle of the day. 

Hollywood Beach boasts a beautiful 2.5-mile boardwalk in addition to the beach itself which is a hub of activity, restaurants, and bars attracting both locals and visitors year-round.

a cultural thing to do in fort lauderdale is to attend a show at the broward center for performing arts

5. Enjoy a Show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is one of Fort Lauderdale’s cultural icons. This playhouse is one of the most visited in the world and hosts over 700 performances each year, making it an ideal place to spend an afternoon or evening if you ever want to get out of the sun.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located on the scenic banks of the New River, so you can admire the spectacular view before and after you enjoy one of the shows. If the Broward Center is fully booked, check out the nearby Parker Playhouse, which is another Fort Lauderdale cultural hotspot where you and your travel companions can experience South Florida’s emerging arts scene and enjoy a show.

6. Visit the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park

One of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale if you love the outdoors is a day trip to Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. This state park spans 180 acres of preserved land where visitors and residents can picnic on the beach or grass, camp under the stars, hike along nature trails, witness spectacular wildlife, or go on a guided tour. 

Hugh Taylor Birch State Park is open year-round from 8:00 a.m. until sunset, and the entrance fee to the park is under $10 per vehicle. Just be sure to book your tour tickets in advance to ensure you get the time slot of your preference, especially if you want to stay out of the sun in the middle of the day.

dine with friends at the S3 restaurant for a tasty thing to do in fort lauderdale

7. Dine at S3 (Sun Surf Sand)

S3 (Sun Surf Sand) is one of the top-rated restaurants in Fort Lauderdale that serves up award-winning seafood, steak, and sushi. The restaurant opened its doors in Fort Lauderdale in 2013 and has been a favorite spot for locals and visitors ever since. 

S3 has gorgeous views of Fort Lauderdale Beach and the Atlantic Ocean while offering artfully crafted food that’s designed to be shared for a culinary experience that everyone at the table can be a part of. 

Each plate served up at S3 includes delicious cuts of premium meat, freshly caught fish, and locally sourced ingredients so you’re guaranteed to never go home from here hungry.

8. See Animals at Flamingo Gardens

Flamingo Gardens in Fort Lauderdale is a family-friendly, exotic, and exciting thing to do. Why? Because there are few animals more photogenic or statuesque than the bright pink flamingo. 

Flamingo Gardens is technically a botanical garden, but it’s also an aviary (a.k.a. bird) zoo that provides a peaceful escape and unique opportunity to experience South Florida’s wild nature without ever having to leave Fort Lauderdale.

Flamingo Gardens is home to dozens of native “Champion” trees (state record holders in size, width, and age) as well as hummingbird species and countless rare plants. Be sure to have your camera handy as you wander through the scenic pathways and mangrove forests.

shopping at sawgrass mills is a popular thing to do in fort lauderdale

9. Go Shopping at Sawgrass Mills

Sawgrass Mills in Fort Lauderdale is the largest single-story outlet mall in America, so remember to charge your Fitbit or Apple Watch before you go to get credit for all the steps you’ll take while shopping at the hundreds of stores. 

Sawgrass Mills features dozens of famous retail brands like Balenciaga, Armani, Burberry, and many more, while also offering a vast selection of excellent food options throughout the mall. If you prefer to pay full price for luxury brands, you can also head to The Galleria at Fort Lauderdale for one of South Florida’s most famous, premium shopping experiences.

10. Explore Butterfly World

Butterfly World is exactly what it sounds like: a butterfly sanctuary with over 20,000 colorful butterflies and birds. Butterfly World is the perfect attraction to visit when you’re exploring Fort Lauderdale if you want to do more than just shop or lay on the beach.

Whether you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or family, Butterfly World offers guided educational tours or you can also wander around and explore at your own pace. The South Florida Adventure Pass includes entry to Butterfly World as well as three other top outdoor destinations to visit in Fort Lauderdale, including Flamingo Gardens, Sawgrass Recreation Park, and the Museum of Discovery and Science.

surfing is a popular thing to do in fort lauderdale

11. Learn To Surf

Make vacation memories and get your adrenaline pumping by taking a surfing lesson in Fort Lauderdale. Pompano Beach is one of the best spots to try this watersport because the waves are consistent and not too forceful. However, you can enjoy surfing along nearly any Fort Lauderdale beach. 

If you’re not quite ready to ride the waves on a surfboard yet, try taking a paddleboarding lesson instead to get your feet wet. Paddleboarding lets you get out onto the water, but the large board is easier to stay upright on than a surfboard and there typically aren’t any waves involved. 

12. Embark on a Seaplane Tour

If sightseeing is on your travel bucket list, then a seaplane tour is a must-do when visiting Fort Lauderdale. You can fly over Fort Lauderdale for 30 minutes and soak in the views as you soar through the sky, getting a unique vantage point of the crystal clear the Atlantic Ocean, white sand beaches, and towering palm trees of South Florida.

A seaplane tour of Fort Lauderdale is more expensive than your standard boat sightseeing tour, but it will be a memory that your entire travel group will remember for years to come.

one thing to do in fort lauderdale is experience the city from the water

13. Enjoy a Boat Cruise

Fort Lauderdale has endless boat cruise options that allow you to experience South Florida’s coastline, beaches, bays, and canals from the water. A sightseeing cruise is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale because it shows off this beach city from a new vantage point and allows you to get out on the water without actually getting in it.

Las Olas Gondola operates romantic boat tours in a fleet of Venetian-style gondolas, while the Jungle Queen Riverboat is a multi-deck ferry for large sightseeing tours along Fort Lauderdale’s waterfront. 

Fort Lauderdale is also known as the yachting capital of the U.S. So, don’t miss the chance to hop onto one of the city’s luxury yachts if you’re looking for a fast-paced on-the-water experience.

14. Kayak Along the Venetian Isles

There’s no better way to explore the “Venice of America” and Fort Lauderdale’s intricate system of canals than in a single or tandem kayak

You can rent a kayak or book a group kayaking tour depending on your comfort level. Whatever you choose, experiencing Fort Lauderdale by kayak lets you go at your own pace as you meander through the crystal-clear waterways and allows you to see some of South Florida’s most expensive waterfront mansions in a unique way.

the Bonnet Museum and House is a scenic indoors and outdoors thing to do in Fort Lauderdale

15. Visit the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

The Bonnet House Museum and Gardens is a historic home museum in the heart of Fort Lauderdale. The house was built in 1920 and was formerly the home of two famous American artists, Frederic and Evelyn Bartlett. 

The Bonnet House Museum shows off the artists’ furnished home and also includes many of their original works of art still decorating the walls. 

The gardens are a space of tranquility amidst the city. The brightly colored flowers beg to be photographed, while the manicured gardens offer a calming place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy day at the beach canoeing, in a kayak, or on a seaplane tour.

16. Learn about South Florida History at the Historic Stranahan House Museum

The Historic Stranahan House Museum is the oldest standing house in Broward County, which includes Fort Lauderdale. This historic home was built in 1901 and was the residence of two of Fort Lauderdale’s first residents, Frank and Ivy Stranahan.

Enjoy a guided tour through the museum and Stranahan house, while hearing stories about one of Fort Lauderdale’s founding families and learning more about the history of this bustling, up-and-coming city.

17. Go Sightseeing on the Community Shuttle

Formerly known as the Sun Trolley, the Community Shuttle is an easy and effortless way to get around Fort Lauderdale. It’s free to ride and has links and stops throughout the city, so it’s perfect for visitors who want to self-guide themselves on a tour of Fort Lauderdale’s top sights and attractions.

Whether you use the Community Shuttle for sightseeing or as cheap transportation, it’s a convenient way to check off multiple items on this list of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale. Especially if you aren’t driving into town or don’t want to rent a car.

treating yourself to a delicious meal at casa d'angelo is a popular fort lauderdale thing to do

18. Try a Meal at Casa D’Angelo

Casa D’Angelo is one of Fort Lauderdale’s best restaurants where you can indulge in delicious Northern Italian cuisine and a large wine selection in an elegant, upscale atmosphere. 

Casa D’Angelo’s food is award-winning, its service impeccable, and it’s the original location of the now famous brand started by chef Angelo Elia, which currently has other locations throughout the U.S. If you’re a foodie—or just spent all day working up an appetite being out and about around town—Casa D’Angelo is a can’t-miss Fort Lauderdale culinary icon.

an outdoors thing to do in fort lauderdale is drink at the tiki bar

19. Have Fun on a Floating Tiki Bar

Fort Lauderdale Cruisin’ Tikis proves that boat tours in the Venice of America come in all shapes and sizes. On this tiki bar boat cruise, you and your friends can enjoy drinks, live entertainment, and experience Fort Lauderdale’s scenic waterways all at the same time. 

Cruisin’ Tikis has boat tours with jazz music under the stars as well as cruises that depart morning, afternoon, and at sunset. You can also custom charter a tiki bar boat for a private party which will make for a waterfront event that you and your traveling companions will remember for the rest of your lives.

20. Try Something Delicious at The Katherine

One of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale is to experience its world-class, up-and-coming culinary scene. The Katherine is a new restaurant in Fort Lauderdale that opened its doors in 2021 and has quickly established itself as one of the city’s most coveted reservations. 

This Argentinian Steakhouse serves up premium cuts of meat in artfully plated dishes. The skilled chefs can also accommodate allergies and food intolerances as well as whip up something special for the kids. Don’t pass up the decadent dessert menu when you’ve finished dinner either.

if you're looking fort a cultural thing to do in ft lauderdale then definitely make a stop at the NSU Art Museum

21. See Art at the NSU Art Museum

The NSU Art Museum in Fort Lauderdale is one of the places to visit in the city if it rains or you need a few hours out of the sun. The exhibitions and art installations are inspiring and educational, and they are sure to keep everyone in your travel group entertained. 

The art gallery has permanent and rotating exhibitions so that visitors who have explored the NSU before can always find something new. 

After browsing the paintings, sculptures, and digital art, head to the onsite cafe and gift shop to pick up treats and souvenirs.

jockeys racing at gulfstream park

22. Win Big at the Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino

If you’re feeling lucky during your getaway to Fort Lauderdale, head to the Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino in nearby Hallandale Beach to experience the energy of a real-life horse race, a pulse-pounding casino night, or to catch some live entertainment or a show. 

The Gulfstream Park Racing and Casino are also home to several excellent restaurants so you can easily spend an entire afternoon or evening here (or both) without running out of things to do.

23. Open Your Mind at the Museum of Discovery and Science

The Museum of Discovery and Science in Fort Lauderdale is an excellent activity for the entire family to enjoy. This interactive museum and science center has hands-on exhibits for kids and kids-at-heart to learn from. 

The Museum of Discovery and Science includes an onsite IMAX 3D theater, a prehistoric Florida section, and interactive exhibits about Florida’s rare flora, fauna, and ecosystems. For outdoor lovers, the Museum of Discovery and Science is an excellent activity to pair with a visit to Flamingo Gardens or the Everglades.

24. Pretend to be a Pirate on a Bluefoot Pirate Adventure

Bluefoot Pirate Adventures is one of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale, especially if you are visiting with children. This exciting boat tour takes the whole family out to sea on a replica pirate ship, where you’ll take orders from your captain, learn pirate lingo, and even battle another pirate ship with water cannons. 

This interactive tour gets you and your travel group out onto Fort Lauderdale’s beautiful crystal clear waters while making endless vacation and Instagram-worthy memories that your kids will love. 

25. Have a Blast at Flippo’s Family Center

Flippos Family Center is an indoor playground that spans 9,000 square feet of interactive fun and offers families the perfect place to visit in Fort Lauderdale if it’s raining, too hot outside, or you’re just looking for something unique to do. At Flippo’s Family Center, you and your kids can slide down mega slides, play in the laser maze, cannonball into ball pits, climb, jump, and play. 

Children ages one to 14 are welcome to run around and blow off some steam while parents can enjoy drinks and snacks in the comfortable seating areas.

family in a flat-bottomed boat. seeing alligators is a popular thing to do in fort lauderdale

26. See alligators at Sawgrass Recreation Park

Sawgrass Recreation Park is a beautiful destination near Fort Lauderdale that your entire family will enjoy. The Sawgrass Recreation Park is in the Florida Everglades and offers unique tours through miles of jaw-dropping scenery and wetland wilderness. 

An airboat ride at Sawgrass Recreation Park is also one of the best ways to see an alligator because these flat-bottomed boats with a giant fan on the back instead of an engine are designed to explore shallow waters like the Everglades.

drinking a beer at Invasive Species is a popular Fort Lauderdale thing to do

27. Have a Beer at Invasive Species Brewing

After a long day of exploring, head to Invasive Species Brewing and try one—or a few—of this craft brewery’s delicious beers. 

You never know what to expect at Invasive Species Brewing because their beer selection constantly rotates based on the experiments they conduct in their taproom, and their menu adjusts weekly based on which seasonal ingredients are available.

The brewery and bar are also decorated with taxidermied native animals on nearly every free wall space for a unique and laid-back atmosphere that perfectly captures the South Florida outdoor vibe.

28. Play a round of golf

Fort Lauderdale is home to some of South Florida’s best golf courses, so you have unending options to choose from if you like to hit the greens on vacation. Enjoy a scenic spot to practice your shots as well as clubhouses with epic views. 

The private Grand Oaks Golf Club is one of Fort Lauderdale’s most renowned courses, but golfers must have a membership or know someone who’s a member to play here. Other respected golf courses in Fort Lauderdale include: 

enjoying a fancy cocktail at Blue Martini is a popular fort lauderdale thing to do

29. Have a Drink at the Blue Martini

The Blue Martini is a sophisticated bar and nightclub in Fort Lauderdale on Sunrise Boulevard at the Galleria Mall. For anyone visiting Fort Lauderdale over the age of 21, this bar and nightclub is a must-visit spot. 

The Blue Martini is open Wednesday to Sunday nights with Happy Hour between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. They also have live music almost around the clock, which will get you and your travel companions onto the dance floor. If you’re traveling in a large group, you can also host private events here.

30. Rent an epic vacation home

One of the best things to do in Fort Lauderdale is to rent a vacation home with a pool, comfortable amenities, water views, and a space for your furry friends to run around. There are so many options of amazing rentals for families, friends, and couples that give you more privacy than a hotel room as well as the comfort of feeling like you’re at home.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation rental near your favorite beach or you want to rent a home that’s closer to one of your must-see attractions while you’re in town, Fort Lauderdale has rental options suited to any type of traveler.

Conclusion

Fort Lauderdale is chock-full of fun activities and things to do for couples, groups, and families. Travelers searching for history and culture will adore the Historic Stranahan House Museum and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts. Meanwhile, adventure lovers will get a thrill out of jet skiing, an airboat tour, or exploring Fort Lauderdale’s canals by kayak or paddleboard.

If you prefer a slower pace, enjoy lounging on the many amazing Fort Lauderdale beaches or shopping at outlet malls and boutique shops. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a great time in the “Venice of America.”

7 Best Corporate Retreat Venues in The United States

It’s time for your company’s annual retreat, which means it’s time to maximize your teams’ in-person conversations and connections. But what’s work with no play? Re-energize your team with memorable experiences at our full-service vacation homes in the most sought-after destinations. From our selection of private communities, hotel takeovers, and multi-acre estates, our offsites team provides work-optimized spaces and manages the entire experience so your team can focus on productivity. 

As more and more teams have gone remote, where you decide to recharge has become even more important. Here are 7 corporate retreat venues curated specifically for large groups eager to collaborate. 

1. Bradley Circle Buyout, Hilton Head, SC

For an unforgettable corporate retreat that seamlessly blends luxury, productivity, and team-building, Bradley Circle Buyout by AvantStay is the ultimate destination. Ranked as one of the best corporate retreat venues in the United States, this exclusive oceanfront estate in Hilton Head offers a breathtaking setting designed to inspire creativity and connection. With accommodations for up to 48 guests across two meticulously designed 10-bedroom homes, your team will enjoy the perfect balance of work and relaxation. Spacious open-concept layouts, dedicated office spaces, and multiple entertainment areas foster collaboration and camaraderie, while stunning ocean views, private infinity pools, and direct beach access set the stage for unforgettable team experiences. Whether you’re hosting strategic meetings in elegant living spaces, bonding over a game of ping-pong or foosball, or unwinding with sunset cocktails on the expansive covered balconies, every moment at Bradley Circle Buyout is curated for peak performance and rejuvenation. Plus, with AvantStay’s tech-enabled concierge services, including private chef experiences, team-building excursions, and mid-stay cleanings, your retreat is elevated to an entirely new level of sophistication. Escape the ordinary and bring your team together in a setting that fosters growth, innovation, and relaxation—this is corporate retreat perfection.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

2. 30A Born 2 Beach, Emerald Coast, FL

Elevate your next corporate retreat with a luxury coastal experience at 30A Born 2 Beach, a stunning modern estate designed for both productivity and relaxation. Nestled in the serene Blue Mountain Beach community, this sprawling 10-bedroom retreat accommodates up to 28 guests, making it the ideal setting for executive retreats, team-building getaways, and leadership summits. The home’s thoughtfully designed spaces include a chef’s kitchen, multiple lounge areas, and a dedicated game and recreation room—perfect for unwinding after a day of meetings. Outside, the private backyard oasis features a resort-style heated pool and spa, swim-up table, and outdoor entertainment area where your team can connect over an alfresco meal or enjoy a fireside chat. Whether you’re brainstorming strategy over a morning coffee on the spacious balconies, hosting a poker night in the indoor lounge, or engaging in team-building activities along the sugar-white sands of 30A, every detail of this retreat fosters camaraderie and creativity. Plus, with complimentary beach bonfires, a golf cart, and 10 bicycles at your disposal, there are endless opportunities to explore the laid-back charm of 30A. Paired with AvantStay’s concierge services, including private chefs, mid-stay cleanings, and custom experiences, this retreat is more than just a getaway—it’s an investment in your team’s success. Book now and redefine what it means to mix business with pleasure.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

3. Blackthorn: Sister Smokies Homes, Smoky Mountains, TN

Blackthorn: Sister Smokies Homes: The Perfect Corporate Escape for Up to 100 Guests

Ranked #3 on our list of top corporate retreat venues in the U.S., this combined buyout of two expansive Smoky Mountain cabins—Grand View and A View for All Seasons—offers an extraordinary setting for teams seeking both inspiration and relaxation. With space to accommodate up to 100 guests, each of these luxury log homes boasts sweeping mountain views, private theater rooms, multiple game areas, and plenty of meeting and breakout spaces. Whether you’re brainstorming in front of a roaring fireplace, hosting presentations on a big-screen TV in the theater room, or unwinding in the soothing hot tubs after a day of strategy sessions, your team will enjoy a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and natural beauty. Plus, located just minutes from Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, these cabins allow for endless team-building adventures—from hiking and ziplining to exploring local attractions like Dollywood. Cap off your perfect day with an alfresco meal on the expansive decks, soaking in the panoramic vistas that make the Smokies famous. Together with AvantStay’s upscale concierge services, including private chefs, fridge-stocking, and mid-stay cleanings, these cabins deliver a seamless corporate retreat experience—one that blends productivity, team bonding, and the timeless magic of the Smoky Mountains.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

4. The Reserve Full Buyout – Coachella Valley, California

The Reserve – Full Buyout: A Corporate Retreat Like No Other in Coachella Valley

Elevate your next corporate retreat with The Reserve – Full Buyout, an exclusive seven-home luxury estate in the heart of Coachella Valley, designed to inspire creativity, collaboration, and connection. With 44 bedrooms and accommodations for up to 102 guests, this private, gated community provides the perfect blend of work and play. Whether you’re hosting an executive retreat, leadership summit, or brand activation, your team will thrive in the open-concept living spaces, private pools and spas, and curated outdoor lounges ideal for networking and relaxation. Take advantage of premium on-site amenities, including a putting green, bocce ball court, pickleball, and outdoor entertainment areas, or let AvantStay’s concierge services arrange private experiences such as luxury catered dinners, mixology classes, and wellness sessions. Located just minutes from the VIP entrance of Empire Polo Grounds, this retreat is perfect for those looking to combine business with the vibrant energy of Coachella Valley. With high-end accommodations, customized experiences, and world-class service, The Reserve – Full Buyout sets the stage for a corporate retreat that goes beyond expectations. Book today and redefine the way your team connects and innovates.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

5. Wanderer – Smoky Mountains, Sevierville, Tennessee

Wanderer by AvantStay. Two dining tables that open into a dual appliance kitchen with stainless steel refrigerators.

If your company is looking for a custom Appalachian retreat, look no further than Wanderer, a massive, custom cabin located in Tennessee’s Smoky Mountains. This home is designed with your team in mind, with an ensuite bathroom for every bedroom, dual dining tables to ensure plenty of seating for everyone, and entertainment at every turn. Wanderer features a unique indoor pool, spacious decks, a luxurious hot tub, multiple grills, and even a home theater. If you’re looking to experience your corporate retreat in the Smoky Mountains in comfort and style, there’s nowhere that offers more space, amenities, and entertainment than Wanderer.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

6. The Gilmore Hotel Buyout, Nashville, TN

The Gilmore Buyout: Nashville’s Premier Corporate Retreat Destination

Ranked #6 among the best corporate retreat venues in the U.S., The Gilmore offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, charm, and productivity in the heart of Nashville’s vibrant 12 South neighborhood. As the area’s first full-service boutique hotel, The Gilmore provides an intimate yet upscale setting for executive retreats, team-building getaways, and leadership summits. With a variety of accommodations ranging from deluxe king rooms to spacious four-bedroom suites, your team will experience European-inspired elegance, modern comforts, and dedicated concierge services that cater to every need.

Gather in The Poet’s Courtyard, a serene outdoor oasis perfect for casual networking and team collaboration, or take in the stunning skyline views from The Skyline Terrace, an ideal setting for sunset cocktails and celebrations. Need a formal meeting space? The Gilmore Room offers a sophisticated setting for presentations, strategy sessions, or private workshops. From in-room massages to curated dining experiences, The Gilmore’s customizable buyout options ensure a seamless corporate retreat where work and leisure blend effortlessly. With Nashville’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment just steps away, your team can explore Music City by day and unwind in luxurious, thoughtfully designed spaces by night. Let The Gilmore redefine what a corporate retreat can be—book your exclusive buyout today.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

7. Starlight Estate – Coachella Valley, California

Starlight Estate by AvantStay. A swimming pool surrounded by lounge chairs opens up to the exterior of the luxury corporate retreat venue.

If you’re looking for a way to accommodate and impress your company in Coachella Valley, California, Starlight Estate is calling your name. This sprawling ranch-style mansion with an unbeatable array of amenities is ready to host your team of up to 26. This exclusive home is one of the few unique venues that feature a private, indoor tennis court with air conditioning, so your team can get their game on no matter the weather. 

Spread out on the loungers across the luxurious pool with waterfalls or whip up a beverage at the outdoor bar and grilling area. The superior design details include warm tiled flooring, a large dining table, and marble island  for plenty of space that allows everyone to enjoy each other’s company. Between the open common spaces, entertainment-ready outdoor area, and game room, there are endless ways for your team to relax and reconnect at Starlight Estate.

Get in touch with our Corporate Experience team & book this home today!

5 Places to Rent Jet Skis in Key West

Looking for an adventurous way to get out on the water? Our top five favorite jet ski rental Key West providers offer exclusive access to explore the turquoise waters that surround the island. Thrill-seekers visiting Key West will want to check a jet ski tour off their travel checklist.

Key West Water Tours

Key West Water Tours offers a two-hour guided tour that covers 26 miles in the waters that surround Key West. Coined as the “Ultimate Island Tour,” this jet ski excursion in Key West brings guests to all the most popular spots, including the Southernmost Point, the historic Key West Harbor, submarine pits, and more. Plus, those of age will get free beer after the tour.

Sunset Waverunner Tours and Rentals

Looking for the spot with the cheapest jet ski rentals Key West? Sunset Watersports markets itself as having the lowest price in town for its 1.5-hour, 28-mile tour. Go on a tour around the entire island, stopping at all the most popular viewpoints. You can also rent jet skis through Sunset by the hour.

Island Safari Tours

Get an expert local tour guide at Island Safari Tours. This jet ski rental company in Key West offers five tour times throughout the day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the spring and summer, and four tour times during fall and winter. Get a chance to see sea turtles, dolphins, coral reefs, and so much more in the waters around Key West.

crisp blue waters are great for jet ski rentals in key west

Key West Jet Ski

Key West Jet Ski offers guided tours seven days a week from the Margaritaville Resort & Marina. The tour company has five time slots each day for 90-minute jet ski tours of Key West. Get a chance to visit the Southernmost Point, remote islands, backcountry, natural sandbars, and more.

Fury Cat

Fury’s Jet Ski tours take guests along a 28-mile journey to discover the beautiful waters of Key West. Catch a glimpse of dolphins, sea turtles, aquatic birds, and more. The 90-minute scenic tour is done on Sea-Doo jet skis, known for their smooth handling and high performance.

If you’re planning your trip to Key West, browse our activities and things to do for ideas. Key West may just be a little more than seven square miles, but there’s so much to do. Book your Key West vacation rental with us and start planning your trip today.

Best Ski-in / Ski-out Vacation Homes: Luxury Rentals for Your Ski-Town Stay

Breathe in, breathe out… Ski-in, ski-out! Nothing’s better than waking up, putting your gear on and heading directly outside to hit the slopes. After you spend the day getting your (ski) on,  kick back at a vacation home where you can have apres ski moments you’ll never forget.

All vacation homes included here are within walking distance to the slopes of their respective towns. Other than being in the perfect location for powder days, these group friendly ski-town stays come with modern interior design, guest support at your fingertips (via our app), and add-on services like fridge stocking, private chefs, and at-home massages—all perfect for full relaxation after the slopes. 

1. Bronson – Lake Tahoe, CA

Starting this round-up strong with one of our personal faves. Meet Bronson, a Lake Tahoe, CA stay located right on Olympic Valley. Less worrying, more skiing—this home comes with snowshoeing equipment for your stay. We provide two sets of snowshoes with two adult poles and one set of child poles. With room for up to 12 guests, everyone can come and enjoy this vacation home’s expansive deck with a fire pit, hot tub, and views of the ski lift above!

2. Snowdrift Cabin – Telluride, CO

Snowdrift Cabin is a secluded Telluride, CO vacation spot. Filled with traditional wood beams, this cabin vacation rental has prime ski access on Lift 10’s Galloping Goose trail, gorgeous sunset views of the San Sophia ridgeline, multiple expansive decks, a hot tub, and loft area. Downstairs, you’ll find a dedicated rec room with a gas fireplace and games for the whole crew. Be sure to take advantage of Mountain Village’s Dial-a-Ride service where you can enjoy a free ride to the Village Core and the Gondola connecting to the Town of Telluride.

3. Cimarron Lodge – Telluride, CO 

Tell the crew you’re ready for a trip to Telluride, CO. This Cimarron Lodge unit is located right on the slopes. Enjoy days not spent waiting in line to ski with this ski-in/ski-out condo situated along the San Miguel River. Bring up to 8 guests and enjoy your apres ski with a hot tub happy hour. Looking for more to do on your trip? Check out our Top Things to Do in Telluride.

4. Twin Chutes – Breckenridge, CO

Breckenridge, CO is calling! Twin Chutes is a 4 bed stay with room for up to 12 guests. Conveniently located next to the ski lifts, this stay provides great ski access and even better Colorado mountain views. This condo comes with great amenities like a hot tub, billiards table, gym, and fireplace! We even give you a guitar—so for those who like songs around the campfire, you’re in luck.

5. Slopeside at Sundance – Telluride, CO

Looking for a traditional woodsy cabin? Slopeside at Sundance (not to be confused with Slopeside in Park City mentioned above) is a Telluride, CO vacation home located adjacent to the slopes and true ski access directly onto the popular Sundance ski run. Wake up to window views of the pine trees, and sip your morning coffee on the picturesque patio. After a long day of skiing, decompress in the sauna to let the heat melt away any and all soreness.

6. Rocker – Breckenridge, CO

Welcome to Rocker. Nestled right by the Quicksilver Chairlift, this ski-in/ski-out haven sets the perfect tone for your Breckenridge getaway. Step inside to a cozy vibe filled with chill furnishings, inviting bedrooms, and a kitchen that’ll get any foodie’s heart racing.

7. Etta Place – Telluride, CO

Step into Etta Place – a cozy one-bedroom Telluride condo nestled right against the ski hill, offering breathtaking views of the valley. When it comes to hitting the trails or shredding some snow, you’re just a few steps away from accessing it all—thanks to Lift #7 right at your doorstep.

8. Townhome on the Creek – Telluride, CO

Townhome on the Creek is a deluxe four-bedroom ski-in/ski-out home in Telluride’s Mountain Village. With easy ski access, private hot tub, and three decks with stunning views, your stay promises relaxation and convenience. Enjoy complimentary shuttle service, concierge service, and access to Trek bicycles for seamless travel in the area.

9. Silver Sun – Park City, UT

Welcome to Silver Sun in Park City’s Deer Valley’s Empire Pass, where stunning mountain views await from this custom home. With ski-in/ski-out access just 150 feet away, it’s a dream for avid skiers seeking convenience. This retreat offers two generous living spaces for gatherings, along with a private office featuring a workstation for those needing to stay connected while enjoying the mountain getaway.

Feeling motivated to get your ski on? We don’t blame you! If you’re looking for even more places to ski-in/ski-out, check out our collection of Ski-in/Ski-out Vacation Homes.

About AvantStay: If you find yourself looking for a travel experience that values your privacy, safety, and cleanliness, AvantStay is the perfect fit. Apart from their top-of-the-line technology and innovation, AvantStay homes are in primo locations—places you’ve been dying to check out, with experiences you’re ready to check off your bucket list—like staying at a ski-in/ski-out home!

6 Simple Vacation Rental Photography Tips To Increase Bookings

One of the most crucial aspects of vacation rental marketing is taking high-quality, eye-catching photos. When creating a listing for your home, prioritize photography! These photos are some of the first things guests notice when looking to book a stay, and are often the deciding factor when choosing between similar homes. We went to a seasoned expert to get the inside scoop on the importance of vacation rental photography.

“Vacation rental photography is all about creating an emotional connection,” says Sasha Tivetsky, AvantStay’s Associate Director of Photography. “Photos are everything when it comes to creating vacation rental listings. When guests look through photos of a home, they begin to imagine their experience there and create a story.” 

How do you create an emotional connection through photos to drive more bookings? Keep reading to discover Sasha’s six simple photography tips. 

1. Style your space  

AvantStay table setting

Styling your home takes a photoshoot to the next level. Don’t leave tables bare and boring. Bring in floral arrangements and fruits for your table settings to add to the appeal of the home. This helps guests imagine themselves enjoying your space. You aren’t selling the home, you’re selling the guest experience.

2. Take straight-on shots

Living room at AvantStay rental home

Symmetrical shots are the most pleasing in vacation rental photography. Avoid taking photos in a corner and use a grid on your camera to keep all lines as straight as possible.

3. Embrace natural lighting

AvantStay pool at golden hour

Natural lighting, especially golden hour, is a photographer’s best friend. When taking photos of your home, pull back the curtains or open the blinds to let all the available light into the room. Golden hour (the period of daytime right after sunrise or before sunset when light appears warmer and softer) is the best time to shoot, especially if you want to capture a west-facing pool.

4. Showcase your surroundings

AvantStay living room with view of garden

Another big selling point for potential guests is your location. Promote your view and local surroundings by opening any sliding doors and windows. This helps show guests the full experience your vacation rental has to offer.

5. Avoid objects too close to the frame

Be aware of objects too close to the frame, like a table or chair. They can distort the whole image and take up precious space in your vacation rental photos. 

6. Leave it to the pros

Ditch your iPhone camera and hire a professional photographer. They’ll be able to capture your home’s unique features with stunning photographs and make your home shine on saturated listing sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. Luckily, when you partner with AvantStay, you get access to our in-house stylists and photographers that will take your vacation rental marketing to the next level. 

What sets AvantStay apart from other vacation rental managers is our professional styling. Our stylists incorporate unique elements to your home inspired by local surroundings—from opulent table settings to relaxing pool-side setups. They also add indoor and outdoor games to amplify your home’s experiential elements and make it feel welcoming and fun. 

Next, our Photography team schedules a professional photo shoot where our stylists and photographers collaborate to ensure we capture your home at its best. We use high-end professional photography equipment and drone footage to showcase every aspect of your home. This illustrates the full potential of the stay to our guests while highlighting your home’s key revenue drivers.

Finally, our in-house Listings and Distribution team manages your inventory across more than 65 leading distribution platforms known as Online Travel Agencies (OTAs), specifically curated for your home. This leads to maximized views of your home, more bookings, better reviews, and higher revenue.

Why not leverage AvantStay’s exclusive photography services and industry-leading reach to drive more bookings and maximize your income? Our team is ready to help. Get started with our vacation rental management experts today!

8 Quick Tips: How To Market Your Vacation Rental To Drive More Bookings

Although there’s uncertainty in the broader market, there’s nothing uncertain about the exponential growth in the US short-term rental market. Demand is up 26.7% year-over-year, with travel continuing to grow coming out of the pandemic. Demand and bookings are predicted to see continued growth through the rest of 2022, in addition to supply which is expected to increase by 21%. This rise in available listings may be a stressor to short-term rental owners and investors, but with some simple marketing tricks, you can make your vacation rental shine among the competition. Check out these eight vacation rental marketing tips to improve visibility, drive more bookings, and increase your revenue! 

8 tips to supercharge how you market your vacation rental

Optimize your vacation rental listing 

putting green vacation rental amenity at AvantStay home

The basis of vacation rental marketing begins with a well-optimized listing. That is your first touchpoint with potential guests and entices them to book a stay. Start with your title, description, and keywords. Your title should describe your vacation rental and leave potential guests compelled to click your listing. Then you can use your description to paint a picture of the guest experience at your home, including all the details that make your property stand out from the competition. 

Don’t just list amenities. Describe how guests can make their own memories at your home! Do you have a private hot tub perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes? Or a game room for some friendly competition and family game nights? Use these in your listing to encourage travelers to hit that “Book Now” button. 

When crafting your headline and description, incorporate search engine optimization (SEO) strategies to further boost your reach. Research search terms (“keywords”) that are popular in your market and add those to your listing. Some examples could be “private beachfront rental in Hilton Head” or “dog-friendly Joshua Tree vacation rental.” 

Use high-quality professional photographs 

Capture guest attention on your listing with eye-catching photos. Hire a professional photographer to take high-resolution photos of your vacation rental that accurately reflect the space, amenities, views, and what guests can expect when they walk into your home. Take it one step further and add Matterport images so guests can take a virtual tour of your property. Update these photos and descriptions after making any changes to your home so guests can see the latest and greatest (and so they don’t leave negative reviews about an inaccurate listing).

Price strategically for year-round success

AvantStay vacation rental property in Breckenridge with fire pit

Pricing your short-term rental for market and seasonal trends is one of the trickiest parts of running a vacation rental. If traveler demand is high in your market, you could lose money by pricing your home too low. On the other hand, if your home is priced too high compared to similar homes in the area, you could lose potential bookings. Researching your local market is important so you can accurately and competitively charge for bedroom count, amenities, views, proximity to local attractions, and other key features. 

List your property on multiple platforms 

Promoting your vacation rental on multiple online travel agencies (OTAs) gets your home in front of more people and means more potential bookings. Airbnb, Vrbo, Expedia, and Booking.com are popular OTAs for vacation rental homes. Make sure you understand each site’s criteria and functionality for listing your property, and create a strategy for managing your listing across each. You’ll have to stay on top of guidelines, optimizing your listing, guest inquiries, reservations, and reviews for each platform to enhance your home’s performance. 

Start a vacation rental blog 

Flaunt your local expertise with a vacation rental blog on your website. A blog is an easy way to increase your visibility on search engines. With a thoughtful SEO strategy and the use of relevant keywords, you can drive more traffic to your website and increase bookings. 

Travelers appreciate recommendations and tips from a local. Pair your expertise with your keyword research to write helpful content for potential guests. You can also repurpose your blog content to share on social media. Some articles that our AvantStay writers create for our blog include topics like: 

Use social media to grow your online presence

With 4.6 billion social media users worldwide, it’d be a mistake not to incorporate these platforms into your vacation rental marketing strategy. Social media is a great (and free) way to tap into new audiences and keep your past guests engaged so they are inspired to come back. Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are popular among travelers looking to plan their next trip, so be sure to show off your home and its amenities across these sites. 

Also, consider investing in social media ads to amplify your reach. Facebook and Pinterest make it easy to narrow your target audience. You can choose to show your ads to your ideal guest by using filters like location, age, interests, and more. This allows you to get the most out of your advertising budget while optimizing for bookings. 

Build an email marketing strategy 

Keep past guests and interested subscribers engaged and eager to book a stay at your vacation rental with marketing emails. Easy-to-use platforms like Mailchimp and Constant Contact offer newsletter templates and simple customization options so you can promote your home to travelers in just a few clicks. These platforms also allow you to keep track of your subscribers and measure email performance. Set a regular schedule, like once a month or every other week, so subscribers know when to expect your newsletter. 

People receive dozens of emails a day, so keep your newsletter content to one or two ideas to keep your readers’ attention. You can use email marketing to promote reduced rates or specials, and even provide travel tips and recommendations. 

Create an exceptional guest experience 

AvantStay branded mug and breakfast items

While it may not be a traditional marketing strategy, going above and beyond for your guests can improve your vacation rental marketing efforts. Potential guests will look at your ratings and reviews when deciding to book a stay at your home, so don’t overlook this step in your marketing strategy. Happy guests leave positive reviews, which drives more bookings, repeat visitors, and more vacation rental income. 

Providing thoughtful items like a welcome package and vacation rental guest book are little details that guests will appreciate. Is this a holiday celebration or a wedding anniversary? This personal touch goes a long way to give your guests the experience they are looking for. Non-negotiable services like quick communication, leaving the home well-stocked, and CDC-grade cleaning are all key to driving five-star ratings. 

Don’t be afraid to ask your guests to leave a review after their stay, and always respond to negative reviews in a professional manner. Also, consider providing incentives for guests to refer friends and family to book a stay in the future. 

Ramp up your vacation rental marketing with AvantStay

Creating a vacation rental marketing strategy (and sticking to it!) can be a lot of work. If you’d rather rely on a team of experts to market your vacation rental and maximize bookings for you, look no further. Partner with a vacation rental management company like AvantStay to earn more revenue and plug into a suite of services that will take your vacation rental to the next level.

Our dedicated teams at AvantStay will do all of the above—and more—on your behalf. We offer end-to-end, flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings operationalizes in-field management and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and reap the rewards. 

Interested in learning more about what it means to partner with AvantStay? Our team is ready to help. Get in touch with our vacation rental experts today!

AvantStay Q+A | Austin, TX Homeowner

We spoke to the owner of our Austin home, Dawson, and asked all about his experience owning a property with AvantStay. Let’s dive in!

Why did you choose AvantStay?

I loved the income potential for my property with short term rentals. I’d had a property manager before but they were still making it to where it was a lot of work for me—so I was very open to a new PM company. I loved how AvantStay has a design and experiential point of view and I own a unique property that fits their vision, so I felt we made great partners. 

What was the onboarding process like?

Painless. I felt very at ease by their approach and felt my terms were market appropriate. They assigned a local property manager whom I met in person. We cleared out our personal effects, they did their design things—so I didn’t do much except get out of the way!

What upgrades did AvantStay make in your home?

I actually don’t know as I haven’t set foot in the place since I left, which should tell you how comfortable I am. But I believe it included painting, some fresh decor and new beds. Very appropriate and reasonable.

What’s the one thing that has stood out the most during your experience with us?

Everyone, to a person, has done what they said they were going to do. Every time. I’ve interacted with several people from corporate and two property managers—all of them have had high service mindsets and high integrity. 

If you could own another rental anywhere in the country, where would you choose and why?

Santa Fe comes to mind immediately. It’s a destination that includes art, cuisine, culture, history and outdoor sports. There’s a lot packed in. Short flight, close enough to drive. Temperate climate. Great spot for a Texan to escape the heat. After that, it would be somewhere between Miami and Jupiter Florida—the coast is gorgeous. As you move north, it gets increasingly peaceful in terms of crowds. 

What’s your favorite part about your own vacation home?

I love my house, and I actually love that I get to share it with more people. I feel like you get used to your own home in a way that makes you forget. This is a way where it’s fresh for everyone, including me. 

I also love that I’m a part of a company that’s doing it a better way than the average PM company. There is a high standard. I admire that, and like the guests to have a great time. 

Is there anything you’d like to say to other homeowners considering our platform?

AvantStay does what they say they’re going to do, so get started and see what happens. I’ve loved my experience and am adding another short term rental expressly for AvantStay because the experience is so great. I even had them weigh in on my personal remodeling and reno choices! They’re good people. 

Vacation Rental Owner Becomes Airbnb Superhost

Challenge: Help a seasoned short-term rental owner receive more five-star reviews, become an Airbnb Superhost, and drive more bookings year-round.

Background

Robert purchased his Park City vacation property in 2019 and had been successfully managing it as a short-term rental. Despite bookings being steady, Robert couldn’t figure out how to encourage guests to leave reviews and become a Superhost on Airbnb.

During his time managing his vacation rental on his own, Robert found it difficult to devote more of his time to communicating with guests along with taking care of mid-stay requests. Robert doesn’t live in Park City full-time. Therefore, he would often have friends check in on his property or assist guests while out of town.

Robert soon realized he needed additional help to provide his guests with excellent service and around-the-clock support. He began looking for a vacation rental management company to partner with. Robert reached out to AvantStay when he learned about our in-app upgrades and experiences, on-the-ground local support teams, and Airbnb Superhost status.

Solution

During the onboarding process, Robert discussed his struggle with becoming an Airbnb Superhost and not always being able to go above and beyond for his guests. He was pleased to learn that AvantStay’s local support team in Park City is available 24/7. The team can take care of every guest issue and stock the home with personalized welcome packages before each stay. Robert was also excited about AvantStay’s in-app upgrades and experiences, allowing his guests to request in-home massages, fridge stockings, mid-stay cleanings, and more.

With the COVID-19 pandemic still present, cleaning also became difficult for Robert. His home now receives premium care from AvantStay’s housekeeping team. The team professionally cleans after every stay, adhering to CDC-grade cleaning standards and a premium 100-point checklist.

On the design front, AvantStay’s interior designers saw an opportunity to refresh Robert’s home. They purchased furnishings to create a cozy space for guests to warm up after a day of skiing or relax after hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, or exploring the town.

Property performance

Time with AvantStay: 13 months
Occupancy rate: 67%
Weekend occupancy rate: 77.5%
Rental income: $96,850

Results

After a year of working with AvantStay, Robert is officially an Airbnb Superhost with a five-star rating overall, and five stars for both communication and cleanliness. His short-term rental now receives more positive reviews than ever, with guests frequently commenting on the welcome gifts, in-app upgrades, amenities, and design.

Overall, Robert’s Superhost status and positive reviews have helped Robert increase bookings, even during Park City’s off-season. Since partnering with AvantStay, Robert’s occupancy rate increased to 67%, surpassing the average rate of 47% for the market.

“10/10 would recommend AvantStay for any short-term rental owners,” said Robert. “Even being located in a seasonal destination, my property still has more bookings than ever. My neighbors keep asking me how I keep the place filled. I’m always excited to tell them about AvantStay.”

Interested in learning more about vacation rental management with AvantStay? Our team of experts is here to help. Unlock your vacation rental’s full value and get started with our team today.

Music City’s Finest: 33 Best Things To Do In Nashville

Revered as country music’s capital, famous for its Broadway bar scene, and notorious for bachelorette bus parties, Nashville has also been growing up fast over the past decade, rapidly redefining itself with a new, more sophisticated identity all while retaining its Broadway honky tonk, Johnny Cash roots. 

Nashville is now home to one of the hottest up-and-coming culinary scenes in America, along with recently attracting companies like Amazon and TikTok to a shiny new skyline along the Cumberland River that never seems to stop reaching new heights with another high-rise apartment building coming out of the ground. 

Meanwhile, Music City’s arts, culture, and sports scenes are also thriving, breathing new life into old neighborhoods and sparking an exploding real estate market downtown and across the river in places like East Nashville as a constant inflow of new residents and young families move in creating an abundance of fun things to do.

Nashville and central Tennessee are also a land of lakes, rolling hills, protected open space, and parks steeped in American history and ante-Bellum architecture, which offer visitors and residents as many opportunities to get outside and stay active as there are to deep dive into the city’s culture, musical history, music museums, and live music scene.

So, whether you’re coming to Nashville for business or vacation, a new resident or an old local, or just passing through, here are 33 of the top things to do while you’re in town including some venerable “can’t miss” Nashville attractions and events as well as some off the radar secrets that you won’t find on other lists.

1. Grand Ole Opry

Grand Ole Opry in Nashville
The Boot

If Nashville had a Radio City Music Hall, the Grand Ole Opry would be it. Founded as the home to an old-school music radio broadcast back in 1925—“the show that made country music famous”—seeing a country, folk, bluegrass, or gospel show at the Opry today has the feel of a music industry rite of passage. 

Over the years, the Opry stage has carried the voices of virtually every famous country star old and new including Charlie Daniels, George Jones, Lorette Lynn, Dolly Parton, Dierks Bentley, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, and Keith Urban. Opry visitors can also get a tour of the dressing rooms and the famous stage itself.

2. Ryman Auditorium

Ryman Auditorium in Nashville
Park Mobile

A National Historic Landmark built in 1892, the Ryman Auditorium is the hallowed “Soul of Nashville” and is considered to be one of the finest and most celebrated live music venues in America.

In addition to playing a key role in popularizing bluegrass and country music, “The Ryman” as it’s known locally is also where Johnny Cash and June Carter met and where some of the most iconic scenes in “Coal Miner’s Daughter” starring Loretta Lynn were filmed. Catching a show here at night feels like you’re living country music history.

3. Broadway

Broadway in downtown Nashville
Whisky Advocate

A.k.a. “Honky Tonk Highway”, the five-block, late-night, neon stretch of Lower Broadway in downtown Nashville is Music City’s equivalent to Bourbon Street in New Orleans—home to the clubs, bars, and saloons that have made Nashville synonymous with live music, and the honky tonks world-famous for getting a glimpse of country music’s next great artist.

During the day, Broadway is also one of Nashville’s marquee destinations where visitors can shop, grab BBQ or hot chicken, or hop on an old-fashioned trolley tour. So don’t just limit your time here to after-hours mechanical bull riding and singing karaoke in a rhinestone jumpsuit.

4. Music Row

Music Row iconic street of Nashville
AptAmigo

Music Row is the most iconic street in Nashville and to the music industry what Hollywood is to movies. Located in a historic district southwest of downtown, it’s home to the headquarters, offices, and recording studios of virtually every big player in country, gospel, and Christian music including record labels like RCA and Sony, publishing and video production houses, and music licensing firms. 

More recently, the historic district in and around Music Row has been actively preserved to protect its sacred place in Nashville’s history as well as the music industry. No trip to Music City is complete without a tour here. You can also eat, drink, and shop at dozens of venues nearby while exposing yourself to the unique Nashville sounds and music.

5. Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Country Music Hall of the Fame and Museum in Nashville
Old Town Trolley Tours

The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum features one of the largest collections of musical memorabilia in the world and is the ultimate Mecca for fans who want to learn about the past, present, and future of country music.  

Showcasing more than 2.5 million artifacts, photographs, instruments, stage costumes, original recordings, and more it would be easy to spend an entire day here immersed in the interactive displays, watching films, and exploring the exhibits. The Museum also features events and live performances by some of country music’s top artists. 

6. Johnny Cash Museum and Café

JohnnyCash Museum and Cafe in Nashville
The Country Daily

Country music wouldn’t exist today were it not for the “Man In Black”—Johnny Cash—and no visit to Music City would be worth it without a trip to The Johnny Cash Museum. 

Featuring the world’s largest collection of Cash’s original costumes, instruments, artwork, handwritten notes and letters, and other memorabilia chronicling his life and legacy, there’s no better way to learn about his impact on music and the evolution of country. Listening stations and a live Johnny Cash cover band ensure this experience covers all five senses as well.

7. Imagine Recordings

Trans Audio Image Recordings
Trans Audio

Imagine—as the name suggests—sitting right next to a real-life country music star, their session musicians, producers, and sound engineers to see in real-time how #1 hits get made behind the scenes and before anyone else hears them on the radio. 

Imagine Recordings offers private groups of up to 100 the rare opportunity to experience a live, carefully curated 90-minute recording session at the historic Soundstage Studios on Music Row where over 600 #1 hits have been recorded by some of country’s most famous stars and emerging artists. If you want to be the first to hear the next big hit, Imagine is your chance. 

8. Wildhorse Saloon

Wildhorse Saloon downtown Nashville
Visit Music City

The Wildhorse Saloon literally has it all under one roof right in the heart of downtown Nashville on 2nd Street along the Cumberland River—including 66,000 square feet of dance floor, live music stages, bars, and an award-winning Southern smokehouse restaurant spread out over three floors.

It’s Music City’s premier venue for parties and special events, as well as one of the best places in town to learn how to line dance on the largest dance floor in Tennessee or take in a live music show from the likes of Ringo Starr and Darius Rucker.

9. Cumberland Park

Cumberland Park open space in Nashville
Do 615

A few blocks away from the Wildhorse Saloon across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge to the other side of the Cumberland River is the 6.5-acre Cumberland Park, one of Nashville’s best open spaces for families and a waterfront stomping ground for kids of all ages. 

There are bike paths, a climbing wall, trails through butterfly gardens, playgrounds, water and misting features to cool off in summer, and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts and events. If you’re traveling to Nashville with kids, this park is a must-visit. It also offers stunning views of Music City’s skyline throughout the day but especially at sunset.

10. General Jackson Showboat

General Jackson Showboat in Cumberland River
Visit Music City

No trip to Nashville is complete without getting out onto the water and the General Jackson Showboat is the best way to experience the Cumberland River. 

One of the largest showboats with a traditional paddlewheel ever built, General Jackson offers classic Southern cuisine, live music in multiple venues, and the chance to take in dinner and a show all on the same night with some of the best views of downtown Nashville imaginable. Whether you’re coming to Music City for romance, business, live music, or family fun this is one trip you shouldn’t miss.  

11. Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

Cheekwood Estate and Gardens botanical garden in Nashville
Do 615

Formerly the family home of Mabel and Leslie Cheek, Cheekwood Estate and Gardens is considered one of the top botanical gardens and one of the finest American Country estates in the country. 

Built in the 1930s, visitors can tour the massive Georgian mansion with its collection of over 7,000 historical objects and artwork and 55 acres of perfectly-manicured gardens with stunning views of the surrounding area. There’s also a 1.5-mile-long trail that winds through modern and contemporary outdoor sculpture installations that are perfect for kids and art lovers alike.   

12. Lane Motor Museum

Lane Motor Museum automobiles in Nashville
State of Speed

A must-visit for car enthusiasts and NASCAR fans, Nashville’s Lane Motor Museum features the largest collection of European automobiles in the U.S., including more than 150 cars and motorcycles dating from the early 1900s all the way up to some of the finest sports cars made today. 

All of the one-of-a-kind automobiles, microcars, amphibious and military vehicles, alternative fuel vehicles, and prototypes are maintained in pristine running order and visitors can also learn about the engineering, politics, geography, and economics that shaped the history of driving while they’re marveling at the cars.

13. Frist Art Museum

Frist Art Museum in Nashville
Do 615

A short walk up the street from Lower Broadway’s honky tonks and bars, a gorgeous white marble building that initially served as Nashville’s first post office now houses the Frist Art Museum

Opened in 2001, the Frist Museum is widely regarded as one of the finest art museums in America featuring 12-15 rotating exhibits every year from some of the most prestigious collections in the world. For families and visitors looking to enjoy great art and sculpture while they’re taking a break from eating BBQ and listening to live music, this is a Nashville arts and culture must-do. 

14. Adventure Science Center

Nashville's Adventure Science Center
Adventure Science Center

If science and adventure are more your things than sculpture and contemporary art, Nashville’s Adventure Science Center offers the perfect family-friendly day to keep your kids busy, curious, and entertained.

Focused on a hands-on approach, kids are encouraged to learn about science and the natural world through interactive activities like building stations, painting classes, virtual reality experiences, live science demonstrations, and a 63-foot state-of-the-art dome theater and planetarium. There are also programs and events designed for adults like “Way Late Play Date” where visitors can learn about space through a Star Trek-themed program (all with a drink in hand).

15. Cooters (Dukes of Hazzard museum)

Cooters museum for the Dukes of Hazzard fans in Nashville
Flyctory

Founded by actor-turned-politician Ben Jones who played Cooter Davenport in the long-running TV series “Dukes Of Hazzard”, Cooters pays homage to the cars, stunts, props, and costumes that made the show one of America’s most beloved.  

In addition to all of the original memorabilia, Cooters also features Cooter’s Tow Truck, Daisy’s Jeep, Rosco’s Patrol Car, and the General Lee, the 1969 Dodge Charger that eventually became the symbol of the show for millions. For fans of the show, there are few better places for a photo op or Instagram post in Nashville than here.

16. Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge

Tootsie's Orchid Lounge on Broadway Nashville
Religion News Service

In the annals of Music City honky tonk, it doesn’t get any more historic than Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge on Broadway. During the day it’s one of the most photographed spots in downtown Nashville with its bright purple exterior. At night, there’s usually a line stretching around the corner with visitors looking to get in to sip a drink where Willie Nelson started his career, and musicians like Kris Kristofferson, Waylon Jennings, and Patsy Cline were once regular customers. 

Despite its rich history, Tootsie’s is still also one of Nashville’s best honky tonks to hear live music so try to get in for a show if you can. You’ll feel like you’re a part of country music history. 

17. Printer’s Alley

Printer's Alley thriving nightclub scene in Nashville
The Tennessean

Originally the epicenter of Nashville’s printing industry stretching back to the late 1800s and home to Music City’s speakeasies during Prohibition, Printer’s Alley is now ground zero for Nashville’s thriving nightclub scene which has been evolving since the 1940s when the first one opened here.

The place has a kind of Broadway-meets-European feel to it since no cars are allowed and there’s always a vibrant foot traffic scene with nightlife gathering outside of the clubs, bars, and burlesque joints. With its bright lights and neon signs, it’s also another one of Nashville’s best spots for selfies and Instagram posts.

18. Hatch Show Print

Hatch Show Print in Nashville
Bucket List Journey

Hatch Show Print is as historically embedded into Nashville’s country music scene as the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Theater. It’s one of America’s oldest working letterpress poster shops that’s been in business since 1879, churning out original art and show posters for three generations of Music City stars and entertainers from Elvis Presley in the old days to today’s hottest country music artists. 

Visitors can tour the shop, watch the old-school style printing presses in action, and even have an original poster of their own made on-site to commemorate their trip. If music is any part of why you’re coming to town, this is a can’t-miss destination.

19. See A Nashville Predators NHL Game

see a Nashville predators nhl game
NHL

The Nashville Predators, or the “Preds” as they’re called locally, have been one of the top professional ice hockey teams for the past decade, reaching the NHL Finals in 2017. And once the puck drops in “Smashville” from November to June you’d better hold on to your hats since the Preds are renowned around the league for the fast-paced, hard-hitting game. 

The best part about seeing the Preds play live, however, is what happens before and after the game. Unlike most NHL arenas which are located miles from downtown, the Preds home ice at Bridgestone Arena is within walking distance of Lower Broadway. So, the only thing louder than the fans themselves is typically the bands at the honkytonks you can walk to afterward.

20. Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center

gaylord opryland Resort and convention center in nashville
Gaylord Hotels

Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center is more an adventure than it is a typical resort or hotel. So, if you’re looking for a place to stay in Nashville that you’d never want to leave this is it. 

The 9-acre atrium looks like a glassed-in city featuring waterfalls, fountains, and reflecting pools open year-round along with more than a dozen restaurants, a world-class spa, 2,712 luxury rooms, and 176 suites. There’s also a golf course and SoundWaves, Nashville’s premier water park. You could easily spend a week on a family vacation here and never run out of things to do.

21. Nashville Shores

Nashville Shores waterpark
Trip Advisor

Speaking of waterparks, if aquatic adventure is what gets your family’s play-all-day pulse up no visit to Nashville or Tennessee is complete without an afternoon at Nashville Shores

Powered by more than a million gallons of water, the wave pools, splash pads, water slides, pools, and rivers comprise one of the largest outdoor waterparks in the country. Nashville Shores also features a treetop adventure course with zip lines, cargo nets, and rope courses spanning the canopies so you’re done underwater you can soar in the sky.

22. Nashville Zoo

Nashville Zoo
The Music City Drive-In

America’s 9th largest zoo located six miles south of downtown, the Nashville Zoo is the ideal family-friendly activity for visitors during the day between learning to line dance and honky tonk crawling at night.

The Nashville Zoo houses more than 3,000 animals from 350 different species spread out over 188 acres that were once a historic 1800s homestead (the original home is still there). The zoo also offers camps and classes for kids as well as one-on-one animal interactions for feeding and taking pictures.

23. The Hermitage

The Hermitage presidential estate and museum in Nashville
Nashville Parent

Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage is the former home of President Andrew Jackson (1829-1837) and one of the largest and most-visited presidential estates and museums in the country. 

Featuring more than 30 historic, plantation-style buildings and 1,120 acres of gardens, walking trails, and three event venues, it’s one of the best places in middle Tennessee for families and kids to get outside while also learning about America’s amazing and complicated past. Hermitage is located minutes from Nashville as well as the Gaylord Opryland Resort so it’s a short jaunt from downtown for an extraordinary historical and architectural experience.

24. Belle Meade Historic Site And Winery

Belle Meade Historic Site and Winery in Nashville
Eventective

In addition to Hermitage, Belle Meade Historic Site And Winery is the best place in the Nashville area to learn about Tennessee’s history and get outside while also getting a taste of true Southern Hospitality in a historic and architectural sanctuary. 

Once one of the largest private estates in Nashville covering over 5400 acres, visitors today can take two historic tours, explore the estate’s remaining 30 acres on trails, visit the winery and restaurant which serves up authentic Southern cuisine and enjoy special events like Food and Wine Pairings, Bourbon Experiences, and Segway Tours. 

25. Tennessee Performing Arts Center

Nashville's cultural scene in Tennessee Performing arts center
Nashville Scene

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center, or TPAC, is the hub of Nashville’s cultural scene taking up an entire block downtown across the street from the Tennessee State Capitol building, and a can’t-miss venue for arts and performance lovers coming into town. 

TPAC regularly hosts some of the most popular Broadway musicals and operas in the country, like Hamilton, Rent, and La Boheme, while also showcasing comedy nights, drama, and onstage cabaret performances. For a classy night out on the town in Music City, it all starts here.

26. Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

Tennessee Sports Hall of fame and museum in Nashville
Trip Advisor

For anyone who loves sports, the best place to visit in downtown Nashville is the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, which celebrates the hundreds of professional, collegiate, Olympic, and other trophy-winning athletes who have come out of Tennessee—like NFL quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning.

Located in the Bridgestone Arena complex where the Nashville Predators play, visitors can learn about the Volunteer State’s most famous athletes, dress up in jerseys and pads for some photo ops, and then head over to Broadway for a little honky tonk.

27. Nashville Symphony Schermerhorn Center

orchesta in Nashville Symphony Schermerhorn Center
WPLN

The Nashville Symphony has been a fixture of Music City since 1946 and is one of the most prolific recording orchestras in America, though it doesn’t get the same famous billing worldwide as Broadway’s honky tonks.

Built in 2006, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center which is the orchestra’s home is considered one of the world’s finest acoustical venues, and in addition to its classic performances presents a wide variety of pop, jazz, country, and family shows for tastes of all types and crowds of all ages. So, if you’re ever feeling like you’ve had too much honky tonk while you’re in Nashville, this is the place to open your musical senses back up.

28. Pinewood Social

Pinewood Social on Nashville
Venue Report

Nashville’s recently become known for its world-class and relentlessly creative culinary scene and no venue represents that fusion with Music City’s reputation for fun than Pinewood Social

The industrial-chic venue is a part coffee shop and work-from-home space during the day and part trendy restaurant and craft cocktail bar at night Pinewood Social, and since it opened has become one of Nashville’s premier places to see and to be seen. It’s also got six bowling lanes reclaimed from an old Bowl O’ Rama and two 4-deep wading pools next to an Airstream bar so you’ll like to come here and stay all day (and night).

29. The Escape Game

the Scape Game in downtown Nashville
Travel Mamas

The Escape Game in downtown Nashville has become one of the city’s hottest new things for friends, families, and coworkers to do and it’s just as much of an adventure for visitors coming into town to add a little adrenaline to their trip. 

Featuring 11 different escape room themes like Prison Break, Forbidden Treasure, or The Heist, visitors participate in an immersive, 60-minute, real-life adventure game that will force you to solve puzzles, uncover clues, and crack codes to escape the room. If you’re looking for the place where Music City meets the metaverse this is definitely it.

30. Centennial Park

Centennial Park in Nashville
Visit Music City

Centennial Park is Nashville’s largest park located next to up-and-coming Midtown and Vanderbilt University. At 132 acres, it’s home to the iconic Parthenon (see below), walking trails, Lake Watauga, historic monuments, an arts and activity center, a band pavilion, a dog park, and sand volleyball courts, while also hosting regular events, exhibits, and festivals.

If you’re looking to get outside, clear your head, and breathe some fresh Southern air during your visit to Nashville just a short Uber ride from downtown, this oasis of calm and green within the sea of live music and honky tonk venues will restore your soul.  

31. The Parthenon

The Parthenon within Centennial Park
The Parthenon

Located within Centennial Park, Nashville’s Parthenon is the world’s only full-scale reproduction of the famous Greek temple in Athens and one of the architectural wonders of Music City. 

Legend has it that its original builders liked the idea of Nashville being called the “Athens of the South” because of its many institutions of higher learning so they figured they’d pay homage to the place where Western intellectual traditions began. Today, the Parthenon houses Nashville’s city art museum along with the Athena Parthenos, the tallest indoor sculpture in the Western world at 42’. Make sure your phone battery is charged before you head here: you’ll be taking a lot of photos.

32. Tennessee State Prison

Tennessee State Prison in Nashville
Abandoned

If Tennessee State Prison looks like something out of a movie with its Medieval-style architecture and spiked towers, it’s because it is. The Green Mile starring Tom Hanks was filmed here along with several other famous films. 

Today, the prison is empty and visitors can’t go inside. But it’s definitely worth a drive-by to take in its imposing presence, think about the stripe-suited prisoners who toiled away for years here doing manual labor and snap a few photos for your travelogue. There’s a good chance you’ll never see another prison like this again—especially one with such a distinguished Hollywood pedigree.

33. Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory

distinctive architecture in Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory Nashville
Vanderbilt Dyer

Crowning one of Nashville’s tallest peaks 20 minutes south of downtown, Vanderbilt Dyer Observatory offers park-like grounds, distinctive architecture, and amazing views of the landscape surrounding Radnor Lake State Park, making it one of the best places for nature lovers the chance to experience Middle Tennessee’s outdoors without much of a drive.

Visitors can participate in dozens of different educational, social, and celestial events like Telescope Nights, Meet The Astronomer Evenings, and the Bluebird On The Mountain concert series.  

Still looking for a place to stay? Check out our Nashville vacation rentals.

16 Things to Do in Hudson Valley

If you’re looking for a beautiful and historic region to explore in New York, look no further than Hudson Valley. This region, which encompasses the area along the Hudson River from New York City to Albany, is known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and diverse cultural offerings. Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Hudson Valley. Here are the top 17 things to do in this incredible region, plus a bonus tip on where to stay for the ultimate experience.

Enjoy the Scenic Beauty

Hudson Valley is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, and there are plenty of ways to enjoy it. One of the best ways is to visit Mohonk Preserve, which offers over 8,000 acres of scenic beauty and hiking trails. Take a stroll or a challenging hike, and soak in the stunning views. For a different kind of scenery, head to the Shawangunk Wine Trail, where you can take a scenic drive through rolling hills and vineyards.

Source: Condé Nast Traveler

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

For a truly unique and unforgettable experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the Hudson Valley. Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape as you float over the rolling hills and scenic vistas. This is an experience you’ll never forget.

Visit Historical and Cultural Attractions

Hudson Valley is home to a wealth of historic sites and cultural attractions. For example, you can visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum to learn about one of the most influential presidents in American history. 

Source: National Park Service

Explore Art and Culture

Hudson Valley is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. Check out Dia:Beacon, a contemporary art museum that showcases some of the most cutting-edge art in the world. Attend a concert at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House, which has been entertaining audiences since the 19th century. For a truly unique outdoor experience, explore the Storm King Art Center, an outdoor sculpture park that features over 100 sculptures by some of the most celebrated artists in the world.

Food and Drink

Hudson Valley is home to a thriving food and drink scene, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and craft beverages. One of the must-visit destinations is the Culinary Institute of America, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal in a stunning setting. For beer lovers, check out the Hudson Valley Brewery, which offers a wide range of locally sourced craft beer. And for a unique experience, visit the historic Woodstock Farm Sanctuary, where you can meet rescued farm animals and learn about sustainable agriculture.

Source: Chronogram

Outdoor Activities

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love Hudson Valley. Take a kayak tour of the Hudson River to experience the stunning scenery up close. Go horseback riding through the Catskill Mountains for a unique perspective on the landscape. And visit the Dutchess County Fairgrounds for a variety of outdoor events throughout the year, including the Dutchess County Fair.

Visit the Storm King Art Center

The Storm King Art Center is an open-air museum located in the Hudson Valley that showcases large-scale sculptures and installations from some of the most prominent artists in the world. The 500-acre landscape is also perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic.

Source: Courtney in the Middle Seat

Take a Food Tour

The Hudson Valley is renowned for its farm-to-table cuisine and a food tour is a perfect way to sample the region’s culinary delights. Take a walking tour of Poughkeepsie, explore the Hudson Valley Food Hall, or enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at a local restaurant.

Tour the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site

Located in Hyde Park, the Vanderbilt Mansion National Historic Site is a must-see attraction for history buffs. The mansion, which was once home to the Vanderbilt family, features lavish interiors, manicured gardens, and stunning views of the Hudson River.

Source: I Love NY

Go Wine Tasting

The Hudson Valley is home to a growing number of wineries and vineyards, many of which offer tours and tastings. Take a scenic drive through the valley and sample some of the region’s best wines.

Visit the Walkway Over the Hudson

The Walkway Over the Hudson is a pedestrian bridge that spans the Hudson River, connecting Poughkeepsie to Highland. The bridge offers stunning views of the river and the surrounding landscape and is a popular spot for walkers, runners, and cyclists.

Source: Times Union

Explore Historic Rhinebeck

Rhinebeck is a charming town in the Hudson Valley that is home to historic architecture, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. Visit the Beekman Arms & Delamater Inn, America’s oldest continuously operating hotel, and explore the town’s many galleries and boutiques.

Go Kayaking or Canoeing

Explore the Hudson River by kayak or canoe and take in the stunning scenery from the water. There are many outfitters in the region that offer rentals and guided tours.

Source: Hudson Valley Magazine

Visit the Olana State Historic Site

Olana is a historic estate located in Hudson, NY, that was once the home of the artist Frederic Edwin Church. The estate features stunning views of the Hudson River and the Catskill Mountains, as well as a Persian-inspired house and a landscaped park.

Take a Hike

The Hudson Valley is home to many beautiful hiking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some popular options include the Mohonk Preserve, Bear Mountain State Park, and the Catskill Mountains.

Source: Wikipedia

Attend a Festival or Event

The Hudson Valley is home to many festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music and art to food and culture. Some popular events include the Hudson Valley Wine & Food Fest, the Dutchess County Fair, and the Clearwater Festival.

Booking Vacation Rentals in Hudson Valley

For those traveling in groups, vacation rentals are the best way to go. They offer plenty of room for everyone to spread out, private pools and hot tubs, and outdoor space to enjoy the beautiful Hudson Valley weather. If you’re looking for your best options, AvantStay has stellar vacation rentals in Hudson Valley, with properties that range from cozy cottages to spacious estates like Shakespeare on the Hudson.

In conclusion, the Hudson Valley is a beautiful region that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, outdoor activities, or just relaxing in the countryside, you’re sure to find plenty to do in this stunning part of New York State.

The Ultimate Vacation Rental Inventory Checklist

Successfully managing a vacation rental requires a lot of preparation. From complying with local regulatory laws to knowing what to stock for your guests, there’s a lot to think about. Most short-term rental hosts start their business without any training or experience. There’s no guidebook to running a short-term rental—you learn by doing. But wouldn’t it be great to have a checklist of all the things you need to be a great host? We thought so too! In this article, you’ll find a full vacation rental inventory checklist complete with all the supplies you’ll need to wow your guests, leaving them happy and eager to write a positive review.

What to stock in your vacation rental kitchen 

AvantStay vacation rental kitchen fully stocked

One of the best perks of staying in a short-term rental instead of a hotel is having the ability to cook your own meals. A kitchen with no supplies and gadgets isn’t of much use. Here’s a list of items to stock in your vacation rental kitchen so guests can create their own family meals and lasting memories. 

Appliances 

  • Toaster
  • Coffee maker
  • Tea kettle
  • Blender
  • Brita water pitcher
  • Ice trays (2)

Cookware and bakeware

  • Pots and pans set 
  • Non-stick skillet
  • Cutting boards
  • Baking sheets (2)
  • Glass baking dishes (2)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Oven mitts
  • Hot pads

Dinnerware and glasses

  • Dinner plates (2x occupancy)
  • Salad plates (2x occupancy)
  • Bowls (2x occupancy)
  • Mugs (2x occupancy)
  • Water glasses (occupancy +4)
  • Stemless wine glasses (occupancy +2)

Flatware and utensils

  • Forks (2x occupancy)
  • Spoons (2x occupancy)
  • Knives (2x occupancy)
  • Chef’s knives
  • Scissors
  • Wooden spoons
  • Cooking utensils

Serveware 

  • Serving platters (4)
  • Salad bowl
  • Serving bowls (2)
  • Serving pitcher
  • Cheese board

Pantry

  • Ground coffee
  • Tea
  • Sugar
  • Stevia sweetener
  • Salt and pepper
  • Olive oil
  • Seasonings

Cleaning and storage

  • Paper towels
  • Trash bin
  • Trash bags
  • Recycling bin
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Soap dispenser
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Kitchen towels (8)
  • Linen napkins (12)
  • Glass Tupperware set (6)
  • Knife block
  • Utensil holder
  • Cutlery organizer
  • Paper towel holder
  • Sponge holder

What to stock in your vacation rental bedroom 

AvantStay vacation rental bedroom

Guests view their time away from home as a chance to relax and recharge from their everyday routine. This includes a good night’s sleep! Make sure you make the beds with high-quality sheets, warm blankets, and comfortable pillows. Sure, supplying your guests with lower-quality bedding might be cost-effective. However, having high-quality bedding provides your guests with a more comfortable stay and could be the difference between a bad and good review.

  • Duvet cover (2 per bed size)
  • Duvet insert (1 per bed size)
  • Mattress pad (1 per bed size)
  • Mattress (1 per bed size)
  • Pillows
  • Sheet set (2x per bed size)
  • Pillowcases (4x per bed size)
  • Pack and Play sheet set
  • Luggage rack (1 per bedroom)
  • Extra throw blankets

What to stock in your vacation rental bathroom

A tidy and clean bathroom filled with high-quality products provides guests with a spa-like experience. This starts with the basics, from appliances to luxury travel-sized toiletries. When it comes to bath towels, a common rule of thumb is to leave two per guest. You might also consider having a closet with a few extra towels stocked.

Bathroom basics

  • Handsoap
  • Hairdryer (2x per home)
  • Plunger and brush caddy
  • Shower setup
    • Curtain and liner
    • Rings
    • Rod
  • Toilet paper
  • Tissues
  • Wastebasket and extra bags
  • Floor mat 

Towels

  • Bath (2x occupancy)
  • Hand (2x occupancy)
  • Washcloths (2x occupancy)

Bath products

  • Shower gel
  • Shampoo
  • Conditioner

Housekeeping supplies for your vacation rental

Stock up on these basic organization and cleaning supplies so guests can unpack, unwind, and keep their space tidy. 

Cleaning supplies

  • Disinfectant
  • All-purpose cleaner
  • Vacuum
  • Spray mop
  • Floor cleaner
  • Broom and dustpan
  • Paper towels
  • Sponges
  • Dishwasher detergent
  • Dish soap
  • Bleach

Laundry 

  • Laundry detergent
  • Clothing hangers (100 per home)
  • Iron and ironing board
  • Drying rack 

Power

  • Light bulbs
  • Power strips
  • Extension cords

Trash

  • Large trash bags
  • Small trash bags
  • Kitchen trash bags

What to provide for your vacation rental outdoor space

AvantStay vacation rental backyard with all the amenities

Outdoor space is a top amenity for guests. You want to ensure guests have everything they need so the outdoor space is as functional and comfortable as being inside. If your vacation rental has a yard, patio, deck, or porch, consider supplying these items to improve your guests’ outdoor experience.

  • Tables and chairs
  • Grill
  • Grilling tools and brush
  • Lighter
  • Fire pit 
  • Marshmallow sticks
  • Plastic tumblers
  • Hammock
  • Yard games 
  • Pool towels

We believe that maintaining your vacation rental should be as easy as checking a few boxes. Our vacation rental inventory checklist is a great place to start, but if you’d rather enjoy more positive reviews, increased occupancy, and maximized revenue without having to do a thing, partner with AvantStay for end-to-end vacation rental management

We offer flexible management programs to give you peace of mind. From financials to design to maintenance, we take care of your home as if it were our own. Our proprietary tech suite powers bookings, operationalizes in-field management, and activates an elevated guest experience. We take care of all the work to maximize your home’s income so you can sit back and reap the rewards—it’s that simple. Get started with our vacation rental management experts today!

The Great Outdoors to the Great Indoors: AvantStay’s 47 Things To Do in Lake Tahoe

When planning your escape from the day-to-day, sometimes you and a handful of your friends (or family) just want to land somewhere that’s both relaxing and exciting. And if that getaway just so happens to include a cobalt-blue lake glistening in the sun and a horizon lined with snow-capped mountains, well, that’s all the better.

Lake Tahoe is that rare getaway locale that satisfies fans of the great outdoors and indoors alike. Whether you’re seeking thrills on the ski slopes or at the roulette wheel, this cozy resort town straddling the California/Nevada border has you covered. Same for the folks looking to unwind on a golf course or luxuriate atop a massage table in one of the vacation town’s numerous spas. Don’t let the placid scenery fool you, nestled in this seemingly sleepy town are vibrant nightclubs, thriving casinos, laid-back lounges, and charmingly rustic watering holes in addition to the sophisticated dining scene and quirky boutiques.

Visitors to Lake Tahoe are never left looking for more things to do or more ways to relax. To get the most out of your Lake Tahoe getaway, all you have to do is read this guide, gather your crew, and pack a trusty pair of hiking boots and maybe your dancing shoes. There’s currently an outdoor jacuzzi missing a very important person—you.

The best Lake Tahoe casinos

  1. The dice await your roll inside the casino at Montbleu Hotel. Located on the Nevada side of the state line, you can almost feel the presence of past gambling legends. Channeling the Rat Pack seems fitting here.
  2. The Hard Rock Casino is worthy of a stop, even to gawk at its music memorabilia collection.
  3. At Crystal Bay Casino, play Blackjack, Double Odds Craps, and Roulette to your heart’s content. The slot machines are the newest on the market, and the casino offers the largest selection of both penny and multi-denomination games on the North Shore.
  4. Harveys Lake Tahoe has over 88,000 square feet of gaming space with more than 1,200 slot machines, nearly 100 live-action table games, and a Race/Sports Book where gamblers can bet on various games and races.
  5. Tahoe Biltmore has over 200 slots with table games, including a single-deck Super Fun 21, Roulette, and six-deck Blackjack. The Biltmore also has a full-service Sportsbook and bars with virtual poker and keno games.

Dine like Dean Martin

  1. Inside the Montbleu Hotel, take a seat on a red leather banquette behind a red velvet curtain at Ciera Steak & Chophouse. Enjoy their specialty dessert plate of chocolate-covered strawberries presented in a fog of dry ice while sipping Champagne from coups. Magical!
  2. Take dinner up a notch in the High Sierra at The Edgewood Restaurant. Located inside The Edgewood Tahoe Resort, the cacophony of casino life disappears. This serene setting serves up the fresh mountain air and marvelous sunset views over the lake, perfect for sipping on French martinis or a fabulous Sonoma pinot noir. Scallops over cauliflower puree pair nicely with a burst of a golden sunset. Once the sun goes down, dinner options include sea bass in lobster bisque with a giant shrimp hash mix and halibut in citrus-ponzu sauce with a side of grilled Little Gem lettuce.
  3. Keep things casual at Zephyr Cove Restaurant and grab a bite of spicy, crispy salmon on a bun, possibly followed by a scrumptious chocolate milkshake. Yes, dessert with a sandwich is an indulgence, but isn’t that what vacations are all about?
  4. Jake’s on the Lake, located on the north shore, is the place to go for summertime waterfront dining! Soak in epic lakeside views and enjoy a flavorsome meal, “mountain aloha” hospitality, and dishes that speak to the family-owned restaurant’s Hawaiian connection.
  5. In Incline Village, Lone Eagle Grille’s “Baked Tahoe” is a great side with a plate of elk, bison, or lamb options, or vegetarian dishes like the Mushroom Penne Rigate and more.
  6. Pete ‘n Peter’s is a watering hole to enjoy some downtime and a little nightlife in the form of darts, pool, or shuffleboard, and it’s the place to go for viewing Monday Night Football.
  7.  Peppers Taqueria inside Pete ‘n Peter’s offers soft or hard tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or a tri-tip sandwich.
  8. The Naked Fish has locations in South Lake Tahoe and Paso Robles and is the best sushi source  – even if visitors have to drive 200 miles to pick it up.

Practice your swing

  1. The Edgewood Tahoe is a must for golfers. Rated one of Golf Digest’s top public golf courses, Edgewood has welcomed some of the biggest names in the game, like Tiger Woods and Arnold Palmer, adding fame to this lakeside course.
  2. Designed by world-renowned golf course architect Robert Muir Graves, Northstar Golfcourse is a par-72 course set high in the Sierras for golf like you’ve never experienced. Famous for its tale of two nines, Northstar provides a challenging yet fun golf experience through tree-lined fairways and smaller putting greens in Martis Valley.
  3. You can tee off where the rat pack once golfed at the public Tahoe City Golf Course, the host of big-money games in the 1950s with old-time players like Bing Crosby, Bob Hope, Sammy Davis Jr., and more.
  4. For 30 years, The Old Brockway Golf Course has been a family-owned and operated business. The Golf Channel rated Historic Old Brockway as one of the top nine-hole courses in the country.

Where to ‘show’ up

  1. Harrah’s Lake Tahoe is a great place to catch a concert or even a magic show! By attending The Magic of Rob Lake show, you’ll watch surreal human levitations and body slicing that will have you asking yourself, “how do they do it?”.
  2. Enjoy comedy shows with celebrity headliners such as David Spade at the Montbleu Resort and Casino.
  3. At the Crystal Bay Casino, you might be lucky enough to catch a show by Jackie Greene of The Black Crowes!
  4. In the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Vinyl is the hot spot for musically-inspired entertainment, comedic relief, and after-hours activities. Catch a headliner up close or relax in your seat and order bottle service for a UFC fight.

Where to ‘snow’ up

  1. You may recognize this spot as the host site for the 1960 Winter Olympics, Squaw Valley (a name soon to be changed to avoid a continuing offense to Native American groups). This is a winter hotspot for expert skiers who crave terrain with big open bowls, classic moguls, cliff drops, and gullies. In the wintertime, the backdrop of South Lake Tahoe showcases the magic of snow-blanketed mountains and the gorgeous, clear blue lake waters that attract snow lovers from everywhere.
  2. In Tahoe South, Heavenly Mountain Resort, a premier ski resort Stateline in Nevada, is set on 4,800 acres full of off-the-grid terrain and the most incredible views of Lake Tahoe. The space is so large, you can ski two states in one day. With 34 miles of wide-open groomed cruisers, 1,600-foot plunges in the double-black-diamond canyons, and the most outrageous tree skiing in North America, the choices are endless.
  3. Rip N’ Willies is the place to rent or purchase snowboards and cross-country ski essentials, and more. Located on Ski Run Boulevard, minutes away from Heavenly, you’ll be on the mountain in just a few minutes, after you gear up, of course.
  4. Northstar California is the quintessential mountain getaway in the majestic Martis Valley. After a day of snow adventures, bring your focus to achieving a calm state of mind with a spa treatment at Tahoe Spa & Wellness, or maybe a yoga class. Make sure to grab an après libation, reserve a table for a fine dining experience, and open your wallet to a few chic boutiques on the property.
  5. North of the state line, Tahoe Adventure Company offers Sunset Snowshoe Tours for anyone seeking a peaceful snowshoeing trek through the forest. Take a deep breath and take in the beauty of an alpenglow sun cast onto the Sierras during the solitude of winter. Your guide will share local, natural, and human history during this adventure offered daily, from November through April, or by custom arrangement.
  6. Sledding is the best at Granlibakken Tahoe, a family-owned and operated resort located in a peaceful 74-acre forested valley just steps from Lake Tahoe’s shores. Granlibakken’s amenities include an on-site skiing and sledding hill, the Treetop Adventure Park, a Day Spa, and easy access to miles of hiking and biking trails. Insider’s tip: Purchase your sledding tickets in advance.
  7. Soda Springs Mountain Resort has its own Tube Mountain and caters to kids who love playing in the snow. Snow-tubing carousels, snow volcanoes, and a mini-snowmobile track set the stage for lessons on how to ski and snowboard. Planet Kids is a snow-play zone for children eight years old and younger. That’s where the young ones will find tubing carousels, snow-tubing lanes, ski- and snowboard-learning areas, and snow volcanoes to conquer. There is also Tube Town with 20 runs and a 400-foot carpet lift. The mini-snowmobile track offers up to one double and one triple lift and two moving carpets to access 15 trails, 30 percent for beginners, 40 percent for intermediate, and 30 percent for advanced.

Lakeside fun and adventures

  1. Summer fun on the lake begins with a boat rental, and there’s no shortage of Tahoe water options, including kayaking, for some fun water sports. Kayaks, paddle boards, pontoon boats, jet skis, and powerboats are available to rent, depending on your mood. If you’re BYOB (bringing your own boat), you can rent a slip at a few of the piers – if there are any left. Lakeside Marina in South Lake Tahoe, Stateline California, is where you can add your name to the waitlist. As luck would have it, the marina is conveniently located a five-minute walk from Tahoe South’s casinos, too.
  2. In the summertime, unlock the fun with a Jet Ski on the lake. It’s an easy process with a rental at Zephyr Cove Marina, where you’ll want to head out to the stunning Emerald Bay. The Paddle Wheeler & Lake Yacht, M.S. Dixie II, is a 500-passenger cruising vessel that departs directly from Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina. Reserve a ticket for a daytime cruise, dinner cruise, or private charter.
  3. In the wintertime, snowmobiling is the sport of choice here. Zephyr Cove Snowmobiling offers tours to spots 9,000 feet above sea level and over 45 miles of trails. More than 100 snowmobiles are available, and you can rent outer gear and get free hotel shuttle transportation.
  4. Chill out in the summer on the newest Lake Tahoe booze cruise, a 26-foot Tiki Boat decked out in island decor and equipped with everything you need for a party on the water. The captains have no problem sharing and operating their grill, blender for drinks, paddle boards, some floats, even light snacks, and mixers. If you want to beach up at Emerald Bay for the day or even find somewhere to catch a fish while you relax, they’ve been known to make it happen. BYOB (bring your own booze) and food if desired.
  5. Ziplining awaits you at Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks. For an elevated aerial trekking experience, visit these courses that navigate through towering Pine and Incense Red Cedar trees. These parks include ten courses, 97 tree platforms, and 27 zip lines. Visit Vikingsholm Castle on the west shore of the lake in Emerald Bay State Park, on Fannette island – the only island on Lake Tahoe. The island stands 150 feet above the water and in the past century has been referred to as Coquette, Fanette, Baranoff, Dead Man’s, Hermit’s, and Emerald Isle. Vikingsholm is a hidden castle and is considered one of the finest examples of Scandinavian architecture in the United States. The house is open for tours during the summer months, but the magnificent scenery can be enjoyed year-round.
  6. Head for the hiking trails in the Sierra Nevada mountains. Donner Memorial State Park is the perfect spot – once covered in glaciers that have since left behind impressive valleys and massive boulder deposits. If you aren’t hiking, it’s still a great stretch stop if you’re on the road for a day trip to Truckee and Reno.
  7. Mountain biking enthusiasts have their own community in South Lake Tahoe. Tahoe Area Mountain Biking Association is the place for detailed maps and ways to connect with this biking community. Tahoe Rim Trail is a 165-mile-long loop trail that circles the ridgelines above Lake Tahoe.
  8. Go camping at Fallen Leaf Campground on Fallen Leaf Lake’s north shore, adjacent to Taylor Creek. The south shore of Lake Tahoe is less than a mile away. The campground features 206 sites that include six yurts and standard tent and RV sites. It’s open from mid-May through mid-October.
  9. Swim, kayak, and scuba dive at Sand Harbor, the largest alpine lake in North America. This cobalt-blue water of Lake Tahoe sits atop the Sierra Nevada mountain range. Its eastern shores are the perfect place for swimming, kayaking, and scuba diving. Launch your boat from the park’s ramps, stop for a picnic under the shade of cedar trees and Jeffrey pines, or grab a picnic table and use the barbecues on-site. Each July through August, this is also the spot where the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival is held. This festival has evolved over the years and now offers the highest quality theatrical and cultural productions for all to enjoy.
  10. D.L. Bliss State Park beaches and the Rubicon trailhead are so popular you’ll want to arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon to find a parking spot. It’s a two-mile mountainous walk to the beach and is open to the public from sunrise to sunset.
  11. The Kings Beach vibe on the North Shore is one of a “funky little beach town.” Its main road (CA Highway 28) is lined with old-timey hotels, cool shops, and several restaurants. Lake Tahoe’s view is enjoyed from almost every spot here, which makes it a centerpiece for summertime activities, such as paddleboarding and kayaking.
  12. The off-winter season is when the best hiking awaits, with trails accessible by Gondola and Tamarack Express. The Heavenly Mountain Resort Gondola is located one-half block west of Stateline. The gondolas’ eight-passenger cabins take guests 2.4 miles up the mountain in 12 minutes while they enjoy views of Lake Tahoe. The first stop on this heavenly gondola is at the 14,000-square-foot mid-station observation deck. Located at 9,123 feet, guests are treated to views of the Carson Valley, Desolation Wilderness, and Lake Tahoe’s shore-to-shore views. . Guests then re-board the gondola to continue up the mountain. From the top, the gondola travels nonstop back to Stateline.
  13. Tallac Historic Site opens to the public every summer. It’s free to wander throughout the estates, stroll through the gardens, visit the Tallac Museum, view the Vintage Clothing Exhibit, and more.
  14. At Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina, a fun summertime activity is to sign up for a Rum Runner Day & Sunset Cruise to Emerald Bay. This Lake Tahoe boat cruise departs several times daily for a 1.5-hour cruise to Emerald Bay and back. There’s plenty of room for everyone, yet small enough to enjoy an intimate and unique view of Lake Tahoe and its shoreline. Rum Runners, beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and snacks are available for purchase.

Shopping in Lake Tahoe

  1. The Eadington Galleries of Lake Tahoe features the fine art landscape photographs of Michael Eadington, who was born and raised in the beautiful scenic Sierra Nevada region.
  2. Over 40 shops are located at Heavenly Village to accommodate a wide spectrum of retail therapy. Craving something sweet? Head inside Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, famous for its assortment of old-fashioned caramel apples. Need sports equipment? They’ve got a store for that. In fact, there’s even an ice rink for some ice skating time in between purchases. When you’ve shopped ‘til you’ve dropped, catch a movie at the 8-Plex, South Lake Tahoe’s only movie theater.
  3. Book a stay at AvantStay’s Atlas home in Tahoe City to be close to locally-owned shops selling books, chocolates, wine, children’s toys, souvenirs, art, clothing, and more. You can rent a bike nearby and pedal around a most beautiful lake area, but shopping is easily walkable. The Cobblestone Center is where you’ll find Bluestone Jewelry, Lather & Fizz Bath Boutique, Wanda’s Floral & Gift store, Tahoe T-shirtery, and more. Be sure to wear flat shoes to walk on cobblestones.
  4. GaiaLicious Boutique is filled with 89 percent of either locally handmade, made in the USA, or Fair Trade clothing.
  5. Avoid Tahoe traffic jams and take the South Tahoe Water Taxi at Camp Richardson, Round Hill Pines, Lakeside, and Timber Cove Marinas. No traffic, no hassles, and bikes ride free.

This dreamy lake destination is the perfect spot for some much-needed relaxation or heart-racing adventures. With tons of trails and mountains to hike, a plethora of snow and swim activities, and more, Lake Tahoe is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a new experience. Discover all of the fun, food, and family-friendly activities this place has to offer by booking one of AvantStay’s Lake Tahoe properties.

2025 Short-Term Rental Trends: Optimize Your Home for Success

The short-term rental market continues to grow exponentially with both supply and demand at an all-time high. Domestic travel, especially in drive-to markets, remains steady even in the current economic climate. To get a better understanding of what guests look for when booking a vacation, we dove into the numbers. 

Using 6 months of proprietary data (January 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024) from AvantStay.com and over 25,000 vacation rental bookings, we learned more about where guests want to travel, how they travel, and what matters to them most during their stays. 

charleston vacation rentall

Most sought-after destinations 

Nashville vacation rental home by AvantStay

These destinations reigned supreme as travelers planned their getaways in the first half of 2022. Country music fans flocked to Nashville and snowbirds headed south and out west to escape the cold. Here are the top 10 most searched-for destinations on the AvantStay platform: 

Get to know our guests 

We combine the amenities of a hotel with the comfort and privacy of a home, creating the premier vacation rental platform for group travel. We’ve hosted over 750,000 guests in groups of all sizes, but here’s a snapshot of an average AvantStay reservation:

Interested in more vacation rental trends and what AvantStay guests consider “must haves” when booking a stay? Check out our complete 2024 Vacation Rental Trends report for the top amenities filtered for and more!

Ask the Expert Series: Photography

How do we turn a vacation rental from average to an AvantStay? In our Ask the Expert series, we sit down with different members of the AvantStay team to learn just that. 

We asked our Senior Photo Retoucher, Lindsey Averill, best practices for photographing your home, biggest photography mistakes made in home listings and more. Let’s dive in!

1. What is your top tip for photographing a vacation home?

Utilize straight on shots as much as possible! While angled shots can cover more area, straight on shots can give a more architectural/elevated vibe to your listing.

2. Biggest mistake people make with home photos on a listing?

I have two big photo no-nos. Don’t overly process your photos—I’m looking at you, intense HDR trend that won’t die. And tripods set too high. You don’t want your images to look like they’re taken from a security camera. Shoot from the heart—literally and figuratively. 

3. Is lighting important when photographing a home? 

Lighting is the MOST important variable in photography! Have your home shot when it receives the most natural light to really amplify your space.

4. What’s your favorite photo of an AvantStay and why?

This is the first shot that came to mind is from Yellowjacket in Coachella Valley. Love the shaft of light on the wall leading the viewer’s eye through the image. The framing is perfection! 

Want to take your vacation rental to the next level with our team of experts? Learn how to list your home with AvantStay here.

The Polo Villas: Your dream corporate retreat location!

Welcome to our incredible 18-home gated Polo Villa community in La Quinta, offering multiple buyout options with up to 104 bedrooms and bathrooms—perfect for groups of all sizes!

These stunning properties are designed to create memorable experiences, providing the perfect blend of comfort and style. From pickleball courts to putting greens, from private pools to pool tables, there’s more than enough to entertain your group. Whether you’re planning a corporate retreat, meeting, or special gathering, our venues are tailored to meet your needs.

To enhance your stay, we offer a range of add-on services and experiences, from team-building activities to bespoke dining options, ensuring your next corporate offsite is truly unforgettable.Looking for a unique and inspiring location? We can accommodate your team.

Check out all the details on our Polo Villas at the below, and reach out to our team at offsites@avantstay.com to get started on booking your perfect corporate retreat or offsite!

Top 32 Things To Do in Joshua Tree Year-Round

Joshua Tree National Park is a famous destination for tourists across the country as well as California locals. This national park hosts a combination of activities for both an adventurous spirit and a relaxed soul alike.

Sightseers and nature lovers can rejoice, as the park has many hiking and nature trails to explore. This scenic park boasts numerous outdoor attractions, such as rock formations, palm springs, rock-climbing mountains, and various campgrounds. 

If you plan to visit Joshua Tree National Park during a group getaway, you have come to the right place.

Here is a list of the best and most exciting activities you can partake in at Joshua Tree. While not every activity is for everyone, there is a wide variety of things to do in Joshua Tree, so you should be able to find something to satisfy every type of traveler in your group.

visiting cottonwood visitor center is a must-see thing to do in joshua tree

Cottonwood Visitor Center

The Cottonwood Visitor Center is one of several visitor centers found inside Joshua Tree National Park. Open during the day from 8:30 am until 4 pm, this visitor center is located south of highway 62 and north of the 10 freeway, at the southern end of the park.

This visitor center is a small park store located inside Joshua Tree. While it is mostly just a gift shop, it acts as a logical first stop on your day of outdoor activity. The Cottonwood Visitor Center is a gateway to many different hiking trails located around the Cottonwood Springs area.

This visitor center is a hub for information on the park and serves as a means to purchase a parking pass. If you plan a trip to the south side of Joshua Tree National Park, consider stopping here first or giving the center a call.

Cottonwood Spring Oasis is a beautiful thing to do in Joshua Tree

Cottonwood Spring Oasis

The Cottonwood Spring Oasis is one of the best local wonders inside the Joshua Tree National Park. 

This spring has quite an interesting backstory, as it was created due to natural earthquake activities. This strategic location has also been a hub for several wars fought by the Cahuilla Indians

On top of its geographical advantage, this spring is a piece of gold rush history, as it served as an essential stop for prospectors heading west. In fact, Cotton Spring Oasis was a central hub for several mines during the gold rush since it offered access to water. If you are a history buff or enjoy learning about interesting land formations, this oasis is undoubtedly a spot for you.

Hidden Valley Nature Trail

Hiking on nature trails is easily one of the most popular activities to partake in at Joshua Tree, and the Hidden Valley nature trail is no exception to this rule.

This nature trail allows tourists to explore many of the unusually shaped but naturally-formed giant rock formations in Joshua Tree.

The Hidden Valley nature trail is especially popular because it is one of the shorter trails in this National Park. Many hiking trails take several hours, while a typical hike through this nature trail will only take 1 or 2 hours.

seeing the jumbo rock formations is a popular thing to do in joshua tree

Jumbo Rocks

Rock nature trails are a popular attraction found at Jumbo Rocks. Joshua Tree National Park is full of unique rock formations that many visitors come from around the world to see.

Climbing routes such as the Arch Rock Trail and Skull Rock provide fascinating views of unique landscapes. Fortunately, these easy nature trails will only take a mile loop to walk through so it’s possible to hike several at a time if the weather allows.

Rock nature trails are also popular for those interested in rock climbing or photography. Camera lovers truly enjoy how easy it is to get a good shot here, and you’ll often see climbers bouldering along the way.

Barker Dam Nature Trail

The Barker Dam Nature Trail is another mile loop around a lovely landscape. This nature trail takes tourists past many of the titular Joshua Trees found in the Joshua Tree National Park. 

The swaths of ancient petroglyphs found here have been left behind by earlier civilizations who lived in this park. These natural wonders are quite the mystery, estimated to be 2,000 years old or more, and attributed to prehistoric Native Americans.

On top of some of the history found here, the trail features some beautiful desert landscapes and local wildflowers. Make sure to look out for the park’s famous bighorn sheep while you are out here.

This nature trail suits those looking for an easy hike. The track is incredibly flat, and so many signs are posted that it would be difficult to get lost.

Fortynine Palms Oasis Trail

The Fortynine Palms Oasis trail stands out as one of the more lush experiences found at the national park. Many of the nature trails found in this park are filled with rocks or desert life, but Fortynine Palms stands out because its oasis gives life to some of the only non-succulent plant life in this desert.

Gaze upon the local greenery and geometric rock formations on this 3-mile trail. This path is just outside the park gates and has an easily accessible parking lot. 

Like many other attractions at this national park, this nature trail is free to explore once you are inside the park. 

Note that this trail is more challenging than a casual walk. If you are bringing small children with you, this may not be the best nature walk for your party.

enjoy the cholla cacti in joshua tree

Cholla Cactus Garden

One of the perks of being in California is that the weather is consistently sunny and warm in the desert climate.

Cholla cacti are a product of this warmer climate. While Joshua Tree consists of many different kinds of plant life, cholla cacti are one of those that stand out due to their beauty. 

The Cholla Cactus Garden has the shortest official trail found in the Joshua Tree National Park. This trail comes in at only a quarter of a mile, so it is perfect for those who may have limited mobility or endurance. Be careful to stay on the marked trail and don’t get too close to the “jumping” cholla cactus as the stems will detach when brushed to attach themselves to you or your clothes.

Contact Mine Trail

This abandoned gold and silver mine is found just a few miles past the north entrance to Joshua Tree National Park. Hikers ready to take a walk through somewhere with a little less elevation gain will do well to visit this abandoned mine trail.

This pathway provides interesting sights of rustic remains of the mine. Visitors will get to see mine carts and railways as part of the abandoned mine.

Those looking for an entry-level hike before heading deeper inside the national park would do well to stop at this abandoned mine.

Lost Horse Mine Trail

Like the Contact Mine Trail mentioned before, the Lost Horse Mine Trail shares many of the same appeals. This enormous mine is a top destination inside the park.

History buffs will thoroughly enjoy this seven-mile hike that will lead you through a historic mine and mill. This mine is well preserved, and you can easily immerse yourself in the miner’s shoes as you’re walking this trail.

make a stop at Keys View for a popular joshua tree thing to do

Keys View

Keys View is a lookout point found over the Coachella Valley. This scenic hotspot is a fantastic viewpoint of the mountains, the Salton Sea, and even Mexico. Keys Point is the perfect lookout spot because it is high atop a paved road and rests on a stable cliff in the best location in the park.

This locale is especially suitable for those looking to catch the sunset. Many visitors have claimed that watching the sunset at Keys View is one of their favorite experiences.

Keys View is undoubtedly a romantic location, so consider bringing your loved one to experience something one of a kind. Just make sure you check the weather and go on a clear day to avoid getting rained out.

Keys Ranch

If you enter from the park’s west entrance, make sure to stop at Keys Ranch. While not the most extensive attraction found in the park, Keys Ranch acts as a historical landmark to the early ranching culture found here.

Visitors can come to check out the small settlement and see all of the amenities earlier humans had used. This ranch served as a hub for the miners west during the gold rush over a hundred years ago.

Hidden Valley Campground

If you are staying in or around Los Angeles, you are only one road trip away from the Hidden Valley campground. 

Those who love sleeping under the stars should look into this hotspot campground. Enjoy the Milky Way night sky free of light pollution in the typical Los Angeles area.

This campground is generous enough to provide restrooms and fire rings for its visitors. Other necessities like water will have to be packed in for the night. 

camping in Joshua Tree is a very popular thing to do

White Tank Campground

White Tank Campground is an easy and enjoyable campground near Pinto Basin Road. This popular campground is surrounded by many granite formations, including Arch Rock. Popular activities at this campground include hiking and summer campfires.

Enjoy the pleasant, slow hike from your campground filled to the brim with geological history. You’ll find that the trek through the Arch Rock trail has a ton of plaques indicating interesting events found here.

If you want to check out some of the crazy geology found at Joshua Tree, this might be the campground for you.

Jumbo Rocks Campground

Of the many different campsites found inside the national park, Jumbo Rocks Campground manages to stand out amongst them with its scenery.

This campsite surrounds itself with a natural plant border, making it an attractive location for those who want to be surrounded by beautiful rocks and some greenery.

It is crucial to know, however, that this campsite does not allow for hammocks or other forms of horizontal ropes. These utilities are prohibited from being tied to Joshua trees or other local wildlife.

Black Rock Campground

Black Rock Campground is another locale in the backcountry of Joshua Tree. This campground offers many utilities that make it a perfect camping location.

The amenities included at this campground are cell phone reception, internet connection, a year-round dumping station, trash collection, portable water, and even some staff assistance on site.

The only downside to the campground is the risk of wildfires. Like most national parks, Black Rock Campground is incredibly dry and prone to wildfires. While campfires are permitted, campers must be cautious and keep their fire inside designated fire pits and on grills.

hiking Ryan Mountain is a classic thing to do in joshua tree

Ryan Mountain

Ryan Mountain Trail is a well-known hiking spot used by visitors. Those who frequent the park will surely be familiar with its elevation jumps and vertical landscapes.

While there are a variety of mountains to quench your thirst for climbing, this particular structure is well-paved and friendlier to a casual audience. 

The rock-piled spot towards the middle of the mountain serves as a great resting point. Many visitors choose to pack a lunch and go to this picnic area as a break during their hike.

Horseback riding in Knob Hill Ranch

While technically just west of Joshua Tree National Park, Knob Hill Ranch provides guided tours open to the public. These tours feature horseback riding through Yucca Valley, where you will see plenty of local scenery.

First-time horseback riders and trailheads alike are welcome on these tours. The ranch offers lessons to those interested but unfamiliar with the art of horseback travel. 

The tour gives ample time for you to get settled in on your horse before beginning your trek through the valley for some scenic views.

Bird-watching at the park

Bird-watching is an inspiring and accessible activity at Joshua Tree National Park. This park is in the perfect geographical location to attract avian wildlife. Birds love the permanent waterholes found throughout this crossroads between the Colorado and Mojave Deserts.

Popular birds to look out for are cedar waxwings, juncos, and even white-crowned sparrows. These birds are a hot commodity throughout bird-watching communities, as their rare presence to city-dwellers helps them stand out.

Many of the best spots for bird-watching offer other activities as well. These locations include Cottonwood Spring, the Barker Dam, and the Oasis of Mara. Each of these has natural water sources that attract bird life to it.

attending Joshua Tree Music Festival is a popular thing to do in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree Music Festival

If you are less of a nature lover and more of a music festival fanatic, the Joshua Tree Music Festival is the spot for you. This live music festival offers much different music than just bands performing on a stage. 

On top of the typical musical performances, this music festival stands out because it offers other activities such as a yoga class, a sound bath, a songwriting class, and even a workshop about mindfulness.

This inspiring get-together is one of the unique things you can do at the national park. This one-of-a-kind music festival attracts music lovers to the scene.

San Andreas Fault

Joshua Tree is in the middle of a cross-section with hundreds of different earthquake faults. Resting on top of one of the Earth’s tectonic plates, this giant rift stands out by maintaining its status as one of the most significant faults in the world.

The San Andreas Fault runs more than 800 miles across California, stretching from the Salton Sea to Cape Mendocino. This fault is so significant that it practically splits California in two.

Those familiar with the Grand Canyon will see many of the same rock structures at this fault. 

Travelers interested in natural phenomena and fascinating geological structures should stop at the San Andreas Fault for a quick look.

The town of Joshua Tree

The town of Joshua Tree is nestled in a very small sideline of the Twentynine Palms Highway. While you might miss this town if you blink too fast, its small size is deceptive. The town is one of the most interesting locales you will see on your travels. It is filled with one-of-a-kind art and other eye-catching installations. 

Joshua Tree has become a tourist attraction because of its name and sixties-themed aesthetics. This retro sixties town hosts many local businesses, such as the Grateful Desert Herb Shoppe & EcoMarket.

Make sure to pay this quirky town a visit sometime during your trip to the Joshua Tree National Park.

joshua tree vacation rental with a sauna

Pioneertown

Travel back in time and get a taste of what it was like to be in the Old West.  

This old town was created in 1946 and was used as a movie set for various cowboy films. While the town’s origins are artificial, its fully functioning businesses are not. Pioneertown is filled with small shops and restaurants to entertain you on your visit.

On top of the authentic western aesthetic, animal lovers should rejoice. One of the highlights of this small town is its Soap & Goats store. This little business sells locally crafted goods and allows customers to visit the friendly goats. 

Slab City

Slab City, also known as just the Slabs, is a community of desert dwellers near the Salton Sea and Twentynine Palms. Slab City is full of various artists and misfits looking to make their mark on the world in a way they know how.

Like the town of Joshua Tree, his area is filled with interpretative sculptures. Some of the more inspired pieces are made from old televisions, decorated cars, and various tires.  

The obvious crown jewel, of course, is Salvation Mountain. Salvation Mountain is a relatively small man-made hill found right beside Slab City, which was made by Leonard Knight. With the message, “God Is Love,” Leonard made this as a tribute to God and the love he has for everyone. This mountain is full of colorful patterns and textures made from spray paint and other decorative materials.

The Slabs and its many artistic attractions are a popular spot for those looking to snap a photograph and spend some time enriching themselves. 

Mecca Hills Wilderness

The following location calls out to climbers of southern California. The Mecca Hills Wilderness is found just south of Joshua Tree. This enormous canyon stands out among nature lovers because of its unique surface and textured pattern.

Gazing upon the Mecca Hills Wilderness, you might see walls that resemble surfaces that would exist only on otherworldly planets. The walls of the Colorful Painted Canyon will surround you and stimulate your senses with eye candy.

Be warned that the Mecca Hills Wilderness is not the most accessible hike. This canyon is vast, and many slot canyons need ladders to climb to get through. 

Seasoned climbers, however, will be rewarded with one of the best hikes available in the United States. 

Joshua Tree Rock Shop

It only makes sense that a park famous for its many geological formations would feature a rock store. Wander around this immense store of stones to look at the many exciting crystals one might find in the national park.

While the energy of these minerals might not resonate with everyone, you will undoubtedly find phenomenal shapes and colors while browsing the wares. 

making a stop at the Joshua Tree Rock Shop is a popular thing to do in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree Saloon

Come and enjoy a refreshing drink at the Joshua Tree Saloon. Take yourself back to a simpler time when there were fewer forms of entertainment and a saloon acted as the local hub for fun. 

The Joshua Tree Saloon is only a few minutes from the park’s west side entrance. It is the perfect location to come for a bite to eat during your day out and about. This well-preserved eatery has indoor and outdoor seating to serve everyone in different forms of weather. 

When choosing traditional bar food such as burgers and fries, it’s hard to go wrong. These simple dishes pair well with the many delicious drinks on the cocktail menu.

Algoberto’s Taco Shop

If you’re heading to Joshua Tree National Park and are not from the area, you will have to make it a point to try some authentic Mexican food. While the most authentic food from this culture would naturally be found in Mexico, restaurants in southern states such as California and Texas are your next best bet.

Feast upon the many tasty options, such as the titular tacos or meaty enchiladas. These delicacies are even made especially tastier with the knowledge that they are also incredibly cheap.

For some of the tastiest Mexican food you can find in the United States, you will want to stop at Algoberto’s Taco Shop. This taco shop is only a ten-minute drive from the park entrance.

stopping by Natural Sisters Cafe is a popular thing to do in Joshua Tree

Natural Sisters Cafe

If you are looking for something more natural and healthy, consider visiting the Natural Sisters Cafe. Alternative diets of many kinds will be satiated through these healthy plant-based food options offered at this cafe.

Classic cafe items such as a veggie wrap, smoothie, or salad are offered here.

This cafe also features the famous “Welcome to Joshua Tree” mural. This painting on the side of the building is perfect for an Instagrammable photograph and is a landmark in its own right.

After their day of history and travel, those looking for a more modern-style restaurant would do well to top their night off here.

Oasis of Mara

The Oasis of Mara is another rare commodity, as it is one of the few places in the park with natural surface water.

This oasis was quickly settled in by the Serrano. These earlier settlers named the oasis directly after its grass and spring water. The Serrano planted 29 notable palm trees when first settling, each representing a successful birth of a baby boy from their tribe. These palm trees are so important because they provided settlers with clothing, food, cooking ware, and housing. 

After the early settlers, later people who lived in this area, such as cowboys and miners, continued to utilize the oasis’s water. This natural wonder has served as a lifeline to those who have lived nearby over the centuries.

Today, this oasis is mainly filled with tortoises and other wildlife. 

Hall of Horrors

The Hall of Horrors found in Joshua Tree National Park is a set of close quarters between large rock walls. These hallway-like structures are naturally formed and make for some of the most exciting perspectives one can look through. It’s a spine-tingling experience. 

Although this location is unique and fun to look at, beware of claustrophobia, these halls are incredibly tight-fitting. 

driving down Park Boulevard is a popular thing to do in Joshua Tree

Park Boulevard

While Park Boulevard is not necessarily a location, this road can be a great way to check out what the park offers. 

While it is great to be able to explore each inch of the park, not everyone has that kind of time. Driving down Park Boulevard can serve as a terrific compromise to see a lot of different locales at once.

This road traverses many of the most interesting structures in the national park. Those seeking just a few glances before moving on to the next stop will do well to drive down Park Boulevard for some sightseeing.

Annual Night Sky Festival

Last but not least, we have the annual Night Sky Festival. This annual get-together is for those looking for a more relaxed experience. 

This festival focuses more on relaxation than the extensive hikes and learning activities offered around most of the park. Sit back and take in the panoramic views as you look out at the clear, flat landscape and admire the horizon. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will leave you feeling refreshed. 

The Joshua Tree National Park is certified as an International Dark Sky Park. Light pollution or the abundance of light makes it difficult to stargaze effectively, particularly around big cities. Areas such as national parks that are further away from large metropolitan areas allow for the luxury of top-notch stargazing.

Stargazing is accessible anywhere in the park during any time of year, but the annual Night Sky Festival provides a more communal experience under a unified theme. 

Final Thoughts

In the end, there are so many things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. This treasure of a park contains hundreds of scenic views and tourist attractions to appeal to all sorts of interests and hobbies.

People who enjoy warmer climates such as the Mojave Desert, Death Valley, or the Colorado Desert will be particularly at home in this warm and hospitable climate.

The NPS, or the National Park Service, considers Joshua Tree National Park one of the fascinating clashes in a distinct desert ecosystem. Plants and animals make their home here in a land sculpted by dry heat and the occasional sight of rain.

Next time you want to get away to a warm location such as San Diego or Las Vegas, consider heading out to Joshua Tree National Park and staying with us instead for a desert getaway.

The 20 Best Bars in Key West

When it comes to the story of alcohol in America, you couldn’t write it without the help of Key West, which has been an enclave for good times, food, and drinks for around 200 years. The city has a rich history of rum running, and during prohibition, Key West residents took the law as more of a polite suggestion than something to be adhered to.

These days, Key West is many things to different people. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly destination, exciting nightlife, a local dive bar, or a relaxing day at a tiki bar, Key West is the perfect place to hangout. There are also plenty of yearly festivals to enjoy, from Hemingway Days to Key West Fantasy Fest, Lobster Fest, and many more, depending on when you’re visiting the Florida keys.

You’re sure to be thirsty when you arrive in Key West, so we’ve prepared an exhaustive list of the best bars in Key West on and off the beaten path for you to enjoy on your travels. Be sure to check out as many of these legendary spots, grab your margaritas, hit the dance floor and explore everything Key West has to offer.

El Maison de Pepe

Fancy dinner at El Maison de Pepe, one of the best Key West bars
El Maison de Pepe

The jewel of Mallory Square and the perfect sunset spot in Key West, El Maison de Pepe is a must-see destination in Key West.

Since 1986, chef Pepe Diaz has served traditional Cuban Conch cuisine, mojitos, daiquiris, other delicious rum cocktails, and picturesque sunsets. Be sure to get here early if you plan on enjoying the sunset because they don’t take reservations.

Tipsy Rooster

Right on the main strip in Old Town Key West is the world-famous Tipsy Rooster. This bar was a winner of the 2022 Trip Advisor Traveler’s Choice Award, and it’s one bar you must try on your trip.

The Tipsy Rooster features live music every afternoon and evening and an inventive list of signature cocktails made with house-infused liquors. This unique bar also houses one of Key West’s best liquor stores so that you can grab a bottle for the road on your way out the door.

Little Room Jazz Club

From Wednesday through Sunday, stop into the Little Room Jazz Club on Duval Street for inventive cocktails, inspired small bites, and the best musicians you’ll find in Key West. The Little Room is home to some of the nation’s best jazz performers, and it’s an ideal spot to relax and unwind after a day of fun in the sun.

Old Town Tavern

A stone’s throw from the Little Room Jazz Club on Duval Street, you’ll find the Old Town Tavern and Beer Garden, one of the best places in the city to gather with friends for a quick bite and a delicious drink.

Old Town Tavern offers one of the best happy hour programs on the island, with happy hour from 4-7 pm and 11 pm to close. Their full menu is available until closing, making this the perfect spot for some late-night eats.

The Smallest Bar in Key West

The Smallest Bar in Key West
The Smallest Bar in Key West

Towards the end of Duval Street, surrounded by some of Key West’s most famous tiki bars, you’ll find a tiny bar about the size of a jail cell known as The Smallest Bar in Key West.

What it lacks in size, it makes up for in charm. This tiny bar is the perfect spot to grab a drink and chat with the bartender about the best spots in town, which all happen to be around the block from this famous watering hole.

Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar

Lucy’s has only been in Key West for around five years, but in that short time, this bar has cemented itself as a Key West classic. Pop into Lucy’s for inventive vacation cocktails, a cold beer, or a bite to eat. For those of you with the courage to spare, try Lucy’s famous scorpion shot. Sure, you may get stung by a scorpion, but at least you get a t-shirt to commemorate the experience!

Willie T’s

In the heart of world-famous Duval Street, you’ll find an inviting coastal dive known as Willie T’s. At Willie’s, can enjoy an inventive list of new and classic cocktails, unfussy pub grub, and live music every day from open until close.

Willie T’s has some of the best drink specials in Key West, with rotating selections every day. It’s also the best spot in Key West for some late-night fun since they’re open until 4 am on the weekends.

Bull & Whistle

One of the most fun and iconic bars in Key West, Bull & Whistle is a bar within a bar on Key West’s busiest strip for bars and restaurants.

On the ground floor, you’ll find The Bull, an expansive room with a long bar, plenty of seating, and live music. The Bull is one of the last remaining open-air bars in Key West, and it’s one of the best places to spend an afternoon on the island.

Head upstairs, and you’ll find the Whistle Bar, which is a bustling game room with a large squared bar and pool tables. The Whistle Bar overlooks Duval Street and Caroline Street and gives you a bird’s eye view of everything happening on the street.

The Whistle always has a great breeze, and it’s one of the most comfortable spots to hang out outdoors in Key West.

Beyond these two bars, there’s still more to see here at the Bull & Whistle, and we’ll cover that below.

The Garden of Eden

One of the best Key West bars, the Garden of Eden rooftop view
Garden of Eden

High atop the Bull & Whistle bar at the rooftop level, you’ll find the inviting Garden of Eden bar. This clothing-optional bar’s motto is “drinking is mandatory, clothing is optional.” You won’t find cameras or cell phones at the Garden of Eden, but you’ll find just about everything else.

Whether you bring your birthday suit or not, The Garden of Eden offers arguably the most fun of all the bars here at Bull & Whistle, and the nightly DJ is sure to get your crew up and moving.

The Rum Bar

Whether staying the week or just stopping by for a quick drink, The Rum Bar at Speakeasy Inn is a must-try in Key West. The Inn is one of the finest places to stay in Key West, and it’s at the southernmost point of Duval Street, one of the most coveted destinations in the Keys.

As for the Rum Bar, they’re open from 11 am until midnight or later, serving up some of the best cocktails in the Keys. For those who love rum, you’ll find more than 350 exclusive bottles from around the world on the shelves of this cozy and inviting bar.

Point 5 Lounge

Point 5 Lounge is a short walk from the Ernest Hemmingway house on Duval Street, and it’s the ideal location for a romantic dinner or a few cocktails. Originally constructed in 1850, the Point 5 Lounge served as a beautiful Victorian-style residence for over 100 years before being repurposed as one of Key West’s coziest and most romantic restaurants since 2002.

The bar is excellent and stocked with anything you could ever want to drink, and the kitchen is one of the best places to grab a meal.

Hog’s Breath Saloon

Established in 1976, the Hog’s Breath Saloon has become a must-see destination in Key West to relax and unwind. This unfussy haunt is pure Key West, and they offer a full kitchen to go along with their island-inspired cocktails. Try one of their famous key lime shooters before you head out the door.

Schooner Wharf

One of the best Key West bars, the Schooner Wharf Bar
Schooner Wharf

At the end of the Historic Harbor Walk, you’ll arrive at the former location of the Singleton Shrimp factory. The shrimp factory has long been replaced by the Schooner Wharf Bar, but you’ll still find plenty of fishy business here.

Schooner Wharf opens bright and early every day for their Breakfast on the Bight service, and they keep cruising every day until 4 am, with three separate happy hours throughout the day. For those arriving by sea, boat slips are available for you daily or monthly. When you stop by, be sure to try a signature Schooner lemonade.

Hemingway Rum Distillery

A block from the water at the corner of Greene and Simonton, you’ll find a tribute to one of Key West’s most famous residents, Ernest Hemmingway. When Hemmingway wasn’t writing the most iconic literature in American history, he was fishing aboard his boat, Pilar, or enjoying a rum cocktail somewhere in Key West.

The distillery that bears his name is one of Key West’s most popular tourist destinations and a great way to grab specialty drinks and some local history. The distillery features a small tasting room for you to enjoy some of their famous rum, and they also offer cocktail classes, ghost tours, and much more at this iconic rum factory.

Green Parrot

If you only have time to visit one of the haunts on our list, let it be Key West’s most iconic bar, the Green Parrot. This Key West staple has been at the corner of Whitehead and Southard for over a century, and the spot has been a bar since the 50s. Although the name has changed, the spirit endured, and for decades the legend of the Green Parrot grew.

Today, the parrot is Key West’s most iconic bar. They’re open daily until 4 am with happy hour from 4-7 pm. There’s also an on-site liquor store, in case you need to take something with you for your travels.

Margaritaville

These days, you can throw a dart at a map and end up somewhere near a Margaritaville location, but there’s only one original Margaritaville, and it’s here in Key West.

The original Margaritaville is a bit of a tourist trap, but for parrotheads and those hoping to pay homage to Key West’s living legend Jimmy Buffet, a stop at Margaritaville is a must.

Rum Row

Rum Row bar interior
Rum Row

Tucked away inside The Gates Hotel, you’ll find one of Key West’s best bars, Rum Row. Rum Row is the perfect haunt for vacationers hoping for something a bit more high-end than the open-air watering holes of Duval Street.

Rum Row emphasizes local rum and cigars, and thanks to their partnership with Key West Legal Rum and Rodriguez Cigars, they have both in high supply. Grab a fresh local rum runner or mojito and enjoy it with a cigar as you watch the sunset.

Captain Tony’s Saloon

Buffet fans are sure to know this local watering hole, immortalized in Jimmy Buffet’s song “Last Mango in Paris.” This historic bar has been a part of Key West lore for over 100 years, and it was a favorite spot of local legends like Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and Truman Capote.

At Captain Tony’s, there’s live entertainment every afternoon and a band every night, and there always seems to be a seat at the bar waiting for you when you arrive.

Sloppy Joe’s

Often confused with Captain Tony’s Saloon, which was once known as Sloppy Joe’s before Captain Tony Tarracino acquired it, Sloppy Joe’s is another iconic bar where every Key West visitor should grab a drink.

Like Captain Tony’s, Sloppy Joe’s is one of the most historic watering holes in town, and it was a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemmingway. Plenty has changed in Key West over the years, but Sloppy Joe’s isn’t one of them.

Tiki House

No vacation is complete without a classic tiki cocktail served in a fun glass, and Tiki House is the best place in Key West to enjoy one. Once you step inside this Greene Street bar, you’re immediately transported to 1950s California for some fun in the sun.

Tiki House offers an expansive menu of classic and modern tiki cocktails, and on Wednesdays and Saturdays, they offer a Tiki Cocktail Class from 1-3 pm. The bar offers daily happy hour from 4-6 pm and live music every night.

Conclusion

Key West has no shortage of bars waiting to offer you a night you’ll never forget. Make sure you check out our Key West vacation homes for a stay above the rest!

13 Things to Do in Port Aransas

Welcome to Port Aransas! If you’re yearning for sun, sand, and endless fun, Port Aransas is the perfect vacation destination for you. This delightful coastal town offers a wide range of exciting activities and hidden gems waiting to be explored. In this ultimate guide, we’ll highlight the top 13 things you absolutely can’t miss. Here’s an important tip while you’re planning your travels: staying at a vacation home is the ideal way to experience Port Aransas, especially if you’re traveling with a group. Fortunately, AvantStay offers a fantastic selection of vacation homes that cater to your needs.

1. Beach Activities

Let’s kick off our journey with the main attraction: the beaches! Get ready to soak up the sun, build sandcastles, and take refreshing dips in the crystal-clear waters. Port Aransas boasts pristine stretches of sandy paradise, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and leisurely beachcombing. Don’t forget your sunscreen and get ready for some serious beach bliss.

Source;: Travel and Leisure

2. Fishing and Boating

Calling all fishing enthusiasts! Port Aransas proudly holds the title of “Fishing Capital of Texas,” and it’s no wonder why. Cast your line into the abundant waters, reel in some impressive catches, and savor the thrill of the chase. You can try your hand at bay fishing, fishing off the Horace Caldwell Pier or Bob Hall Pier, or even fly fishing. Don’t worry if you’re new to fishing; there are plenty of charters and guides available to show you the ropes. If you’re into boating, you can also enjoy thrilling adventures like kayaking and jet skiing.

Source: Fisherman’s Wharf

3. Dolphin Watching

Prepare for an unforgettable experience as we embark on a dolphin watching tour. Hop aboard a boat and set sail on the sparkling Gulf waters, where you’ll have a front-row seat to witness these magnificent creatures leaping and playing in their natural habitat. It’s a truly magical encounter that will leave you in awe.

Source: Port A Escapes

4. Birding and Wildlife

Nature lovers, this is the place for you. Port Aransas is a paradise for birding enthusiasts and wildlife admirers alike. With its diverse ecosystem, you’ll have the chance to spot a fascinating array of bird species and encounter other remarkable wildlife. Grab your binoculars, explore the trails, and keep your eyes peeled for feathery friends, sea turtles, and even alligators.

Source: Port A Escape

5. Mustang Island State Park

For those seeking outdoor adventures, a visit to Mustang Island State Park is a must. Lace up your hiking boots, set up camp, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonderland. This park offers an array of activities, from hiking scenic trails to enjoying picnics and camping. It’s the perfect opportunity to embrace the great outdoors and create lasting memories.

Source: PortAransas.org

6. Port Aransas Nature Preserve

Get ready to be captivated by the Port Aransas Nature Preserve. This hidden gem boasts a unique ecosystem waiting to be explored. Traverse the winding walking trails and elevated boardwalks that meander through stunning landscapes. You’ll have the chance to reconnect with nature, spot wildlife, and capture Insta-worthy photos—keep your camera ready for breathtaking views. It’s a serene escape where you can recharge and connect with the wonders of the great outdoors.

Source: PortAransas.org

7. Visit the Port Aransas Museum

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Port Aransas at the Port Aransas Museum. Explore fascinating exhibits and get up close to artifacts that vividly depict the town’s heritage. Admission is free but donations are happily accepted to support the museum. Keep an eye out for any special events or programs or join one of the tours they offer—it’s the perfect chance to make history come alive.

Source: The Clio

8. Explore the Local Art Scene

Port Aransas is a hub of creativity, boasting a vibrant art scene. Take a leisurely stroll through art galleries, discover local studios, and marvel at stunning public art installations that grace the town’s streets. Keep an ear to the ground for upcoming art events and festivals—it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of art and support local talent.

Source: PortAransas.org

9. Enjoy Fresh Seafood

If you have a taste for seafood, Port Aransas is a culinary paradise known for its delectable, fresh seafood straight from the Gulf. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes at local seafood restaurants, savoring the flavors of the ocean. From succulent shrimp to flavorful fish and delectable crab delights, your taste buds are in for a treat. Don’t forget to check out local seafood markets for the freshest catches to cook up in your vacation home.

Source: The Dunes

10. Golfing

Fore! If you fancy hitting the green, Port Aransas has got you covered. Tee off at one of the town’s fantastic golf courses and enjoy a round or two amidst beautiful coastal scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a novice looking to have some fun, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to perfect your swing and soak in the relaxed atmosphere.

Source: Palmilla Beach Resort & Golf Community

11. Shop at Local Boutiques and Souvenir Shops

Time for a little retail therapy! Port Aransas offers a unique shopping experience with its charming local boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries. Take a leisurely stroll through the streets, discover one-of-a-kind treasures, and bring home a piece of Port Aransas magic. From coastal-inspired decor to quirky souvenirs, there’s something for everyone.

Source: Port A Escapes

12. Visit the University of Texas Marine Science Institute

Unleash your inner marine scientist at the University of Texas Marine Science Institute. Explore fascinating exhibits, learn about marine ecosystems, and even participate in educational programs. It’s an opportunity to dive deep into the wonders of the ocean and broaden your knowledge of marine life.

Source: Texas Highways

13. Attend Local Events and Festivals

Get ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of Port Aransas by attending its exciting events and festivals. From music festivals to fishing tournaments, there’s always something happening in this lively town. Check out the event calendar and make sure to time your visit with the ones that pique your interest. We’re partial to the Texas Sandfest, an annual sand sculpture competition where more than 100,000 attendees gather to create (and watch artists create) incredibly elaborate, beautiful sand sculptures. The Harvest Moon Regatta is also a popular event, the largest point-to-point sailboat race in the country. The regatta ends in Port Aransas, so you can enjoy the exciting finish from the beach or the jetty. 

Source: Texas Highways

Remember, for the ultimate experience, consider staying at a vacation home, especially when traveling with a group. AvantStay offers a wide range of Port Aransas vacation homes that cater to your needs, providing comfort, space, and an unforgettable stay. 

Now, pack your bags, gather your favorite travel companions, and get ready to embark on a journey filled with beachside bliss, epic adventures, and unforgettable memories. Port Aransas awaits, ready to shower you with its coastal magic. Bon voyage!

6 Best Vacation Spots to Beat the Winter Blues

Seasonal depression back and worse than ever? We feel that. But this winter doesn’t have to be all bad. We’ve compiled our favorite destinations for you to escape the cold and spend your days soaking up the sun – because you deserve it!

1. Coachella Valley, CA

Come to Casa Palmera in Coachella Valley for an escape from your average winter. Spend days in bikinis sipping margaritas by the pool and hot tub, or chef it up in the outdoor kitchen. Get the group chat ready – this stay can fit up to 14 guests and it’s here to provide you all you need for the perfect winter getaway.

2. Destin, FL

Beach day anyone? It’s always sunny and 75 here at Seas To Tango in Destin. This Tuscan style home is a 2 minute walk to Destin’s Miramar Beach and comes with a lovely landscaped backyard with a pool, gas grill, and BBQ grill. If you’re craving a shopping spree, head to Silver Sands Premium Outlets where you can shop til you drop. 

3. Joshua Tree, CA

Winter doesn’t exist here at Jackrabbit Ridge. Located in the desertscape that is Joshua Tree, this vacation home is all you need for a mid-February escape. Enjoy al fresco dining, days spent grilling, ping pong, a charming brick fireplace, and plenty of lounge areas. 

Looking for more to do on your trip? Check out our Top 32 Things to Do in Joshua Tree.

4. Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Entering your snowbird era? Try a trip to Sea Breeze in Fort Lauderdale. Enjoy yard games like cornhole and bocce ball. Decompress with sounds of the ocean mixed with sounds of the pool’s waterfall. Spend sunsets by the fire pit and cheers to a winter done right

If private pools are your forte, check out our top 5 Fort Lauderdale Airbnbs with Private Pools.

5. Scottsdale, AZ

Spoil your group with a trip to Sol House in Scottsdale. This lovely vacation home is one of our favorites for escaping the cold days. With its backyard pool, cornhole, fire pit, and modern interior design, it’s sure to be a winner to you, too.

6. Austin, TX

Looking to cross Austin off your bucket list? The winter months are ideal for a trip to ATX. If you’re one of those who wants to move to a city as soon as you visit, proceed cautiously to Dawson. With its lagoon-style pool, views of Lake Travis, and expansive decks, you might be convinced to migrate down south after a stay here, too. 

For more gems of Austin, check out these 6 Unique Austin Airbnb Alternatives.

Best Cannon Beach Coffee Shops & Bakeries

Pastry Royalty: Cannon Beach Bakery

Cannon Beach Bakery is sure to please pastry connoisseurs, with the largest selection of sweet and savory doughs in the area. They’ve been perfecting their recipes since 1936 when the bakery opened in Cannon Beach. Home of the original Haystack bread—a round, crusty loaf with different flavors—the bakery is also known for its win in the Sweetest Bakery in America contest. 

Besides Haystack bread, they offer 50+ goods daily: including almond bear claws, olive ciabatta, chocolate cream cheese muffins, and more. After you pick your pastry, grab a classic drip coffee, espresso, americano, or other classic coffee drink. 

Gluten-Free Options Galore: Sea Level Bakery + Coffee 

Another great Cannon Beach bakery is Sea Level Bakery + Coffee, where you can find different coffees at the pour-over bar weekly. We highly recommend pairing them with daily made-from-scratch pastries like banana bread, kouign-amanns, scones, and bread like baguettes, ciabatta, brioche, and more. We never turn down carbs with our morning coffee.

Since savory items like pumpkin curry soup and ratatouille are available too, Sea Level is a great Cannon Beach cafe to stop by for lunch as well. 

Want to stay within walking distance or a quick drive from Sea Level? Stay at the Seven Spruce for a quick commute to silence your growling stomach. During your stay with us, we recommend that you have a beach picnic by stopping by Sea Level for some goodies on your way there. Munching on their jambon and brie sandwich makes for a delicious and delightful afternoon lounging on the sand.  

Cozy Ambiance and Community: Insomnia Roasters

Insomnia Roasters focuses on creating inviting spaces in each of their cafes, and their coffee and pastry selections are just as thoughtful. Signature drinks like eggnog lattes and baked goods like cinnamon rolls will brighten your mood in the already window-filled, airy space. 

Looking to read a book and escape from the world for a few hours? Our vacation rental Puffin Nest is walking distance from this cafe, from the beach, and from downtown Cannon Beach. It’s the perfect escape while still offering a roomy retreat for you and your group.

King of Coffee: Sleepy Monk Coffee Roasters 

Sleepy Monk Roaster’s extensive roster of international, organic, and small-batch coffee provides dozens of options for your jolt of java juice. Ranging from French Roast Colombian, Dark Uganda, Gaelic Grounds, Bali Blue Moon, and so much more, you could live here for months and have not tried every roast. Don’t forget to taste their signature whipped cream.  

Plus, if you arrive early, you can get your hands on some gluten-free baked goods, and an Adirondack chair on the lawn to people-watch along Hemlock Street. 

Oregon Vacations 

After a luxurious night of sleep in our gorgeous properties, fuel up by visiting a Cannon Beach bakery and coffee shop before adventure-filled days in Oregon. With many outstanding Oregon coffee roasters and shops, you can eat, sleep, and repeat every day during your stay with AvantStay Vacation Rentals. For more information about other things to do in Cannon Beach and Manzanita, and our accommodations, visit our website!

10 Black Friday Deals for Travelers: Tech, Gear, and More!

We’ve made our list—and checked it twice—of the best 2025 Black Friday / Cyber Monday deals for the traveler in your life. Whether you’re searching for the perfect gift or looking to score an awesome deal for yourself (no judgment), we’ve compiled the top deals out there for any type of traveler.

1. Apple Airtags

You’ve made it to your destination.. but did your luggage make it too? There’s nothing like that sinking feeling of finding out your suitcase was left behind, or even worse, lost by your airline. Pop an Apple Airtag in your luggage on your next trip and have the peace of mind of tracking your bag every step of the way.

Purchase a 4-pack of Apple Airtags on Amazon for $79.99, regularly $99.99.

photo of an AirTag
Source: Apple

2. Kindle Oasis

Stop scrolling your social media and pick up a book—or an eReader if that’s more your style. The 7” Kindle Oasis is on sale this Black Friday and comes with a massive price cut. Read your favorite book while 40,000 feet in the air or beachside with a margarita in hand. Either way, you’ll feel great knowing you saved nearly $95 during the Black Friday sale.

Snag a Kindle Oasis on Amazon for $184.00, regularly 279.99.

photo of someone holding a kindle
Source: CNET

3. Apple Airpods Pro (2nd Generation)

What will be the soundtrack of your next getaway? If it’s absolute silence, we don’t blame you. The perfect item to drown out the crying babies and snoring seatmates on a long flight, the Apple Airpod Pro earbuds offer active noise cancellation to ensure the smoothest of flights.

Get the Apple Airpod Pro (2nd Generation) on Amazon for $199.99, regularly $249.00.

photo of airpods
Source: IGN

4.  S-Zone Antitheft Bag

You don’t need to compromise style for safety. With the S-Zone Antitheft Bag, you can have both. This leather backpack comes in a variety of colors and features a zipper compartment that lays flat against your back—ruining any pickpocketer’s day. This bag is perfect for the traveler who often finds themselves in large crowds or in busy cities while on their adventures.

The S-Zone Antitheft Bag is marked down from $85.99 to $79.99 on Amazon. Plus, you can check off the 15% coupon for an additional $12 in savings.

photo of antitheft backpack in black leather
Source: S-Zone

5. Away Luggage

If you’ve been eyeing a new piece of luggage, now’s your chance to save big. Away Luggage is offering $50 off when you purchase two suitcases, and $100 off when you purchase three. It’s the perfect excuse to buy one as a gift and to treat yourself, too. All colors, styles, and sizes are included in the offer, available now through November 28th.

photo of Away suitcase set
Source: Conde Nast Traveler

6. Trtl Travel Pillow

Forget what you know about travel pillows. The Trtl Travel Pillow is made to completely support your head for maximum comfort. The pillow is designed to prevent neck pain, strains, or aches so you can feel refreshed after a long flight.

Get the Trtl Travel Pillow 15% off this Black Friday or check out one of Trtl’s VIP bundles where you can earn up to 40% in savings.

photo of girl wearing neck pillow
Source:TrtlUS

7. Ankur USB Charger

If you planned on taking advantage of some tech deals this Back Friday, you may want to invest in a portable charger. This Ankur charger allows you to charge up to 3 devices at once, with either a USB A or USB C output.

Purchase this Ankur USB charger for $44, down from $59.99—plus apply a $3 coupon for additional savings.

photo of portable charger
Source: Amazon

8. Sand Cloud Towels

Save your sanity while also saving marine life. There’s nothing worse than laying on the beach with a towel covered in sand. These stylish Sand Cloud Towels are sand-resistant and ultra-absorbent to keep you comfortable while sunbathing at the beach. Not only that, the company donates 10% of all profits toward marine conservation so you’re bound to feel good inside and out.

Get 30% off sitewide during this year’s deal at Sand Cloud!

girl sitting on Sand Cloud Towel looking at beach
Source: The Surfrider Foundation

9. AvantStay Vacation Rentals

We may be biased, but this is our favorite travel deal of all. Now through Cyber Monday, you can save between $250-$1,500 on AvantStay vacation rentals. The more you spend, the more you save—so it’s the perfect excuse to extend that vacation you’ve been planning to take.

With over 1,500 homes in 100+ destinations, AvantStay vacation rentals offer group-friendly spaces that could fit the whole family. When you stay at an AvantStay, you can expect an elevated vacation rental experience, with homes packed with fun amenities, 24/7 guest support, upgrades, experiences, and beautiful design to create the perfect backdrop for your Instagram selfies.

Sonoma, CA vacation rental by AvantStay
Blue Steel by AvantStay

10. AvantStay Swag

Hats, T-Shirts, and more! So you took advantage of AvantStay’s Black Friday Deal and booked yourself a vacation. Now, you may want some new swag to pack along in your suitcase. Take advantage of 15% off in the AvantStay swag store where you can find some of our most favorited items, like our “Out of Office” hat.. or even travel gear for your jetsetting pup!

Use code “BFCM15.” Offer valid on any order $25 or more, limit one per customer, expires 11/28/22 at midnight.

dog with scarf and AvantStay dog toy
The AvantStay swag store has plenty for you and your pup!