Albany’s mild temperatures make spring a great time to enjoy the outdoors with plenty of activities to choose from. Start by hitting the trails. Albany’s many hiking and biking trails make exploring the area by foot an absolute breeze. The Riverfront Greenway Trail spans miles of the Flint River’s banks. This flat and paved trail is ideal for pedaling and enjoying the area’s serene beauty.  For a more picturesque and peaceful stroll, check out the four-mile trail at Radium Springs. Adventure seekers love exploring the wilderness and getting up close with nature on the walking and biking trails inside Chehaw Park and Zoo. Chehaw Park and Zoo offers a 100-acre zoo featuring over 200 animals including cheetahs, black rhinoceroses, alligators and many more. Patrons can take advantage of the BMX track, R/C car track and 18-hole disc golf course. It’s truly a one-stop shop for loads of adventure.

Get out on the water! Kayak Attack Adventures has everything you need for a day of exploring on the water. Offering kayak and canoe rentals, along with an array of services from simple pick-ups and drop offs along local creeks and rivers to guided tours, private lessons and a ton of adventure, this is an easy way to explore the best of Albany’s water adventures.

Next up, explore The Flint RiverQuarium. This is a phenomenal adventure following the river’s incredible 350-mile journey to the Gulf of Mexico. The 175,000-gallon Blue Hole is one of only a few open-air aquariums across the globe, featuring more than 100 species of fish, alligators, turtles and other marine life. Don’t miss the Cypress Pond Aviary where more than 30 indigenous (to Flint River watershed) birds make their home. Insider tip: look for special events like dive shows and alligator feedings for over-the-top excitement.

For even more outdoor adventure, check out Providence Canyon State Park, which is just a short drive away. Providence Canyon State Park is the home of the “Little Grand Canyon.” This 1,108 acre park features spectacular views, pioneer camping and hiking trails.

Thronateeska Heritage Center is another must see attraction in Albany. Visitors can look forward to big things like a 40-foot, full-dome HD planetarium, history and science museums, and a rail car display complete with surrounding construction that supports the railroad heritage of the region. Trips to Thronateeska are destined to be memorable parts of any trip and a good reason to come back again.

Engage with the arts and catch a performance by the Albany Symphony Orchestra. Offering a diverse range of concerts and events, the Albany Symphony Orchestra hosts performances that cater to all ages and musical tastes. From seasonal performances to special themed concerts, the Symphony Orchestra provides unforgettable experiences that celebrate both classical and contemporary music. For a full list of upcoming performances, click here.

Don’t leave hungry! Albany offers an array of cuisine selections to satisfy any craving. From fine dining establishments to trendy eateries for visitors on the go, there’s many options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for burgers, barbecue, southern classics, international cuisine or seafood and steaks, Albany has an impressive restaurant lineup. Click here for more on Albany’s culinary offerings.

For more on things to see and do in Albany, click here.

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DELAND, FLORIDA–JUNE 2023–Grab a drink, the CoolCraft Summer Beverage Competition is kicking off its second year. West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority Board (WVTAA) announces about 20 CoolCrafters will participate in this summer’s competition. 

The theme for this summer’s competition is tropical with an emphasis on our pink friend the flamingo, and of course with a West Volusia flair. The CoolCraft Summer begins on June 23, 2023, which is Pink Flamingo Day, and ends on September 4, 2023, Labor Day.

Last summer, visitors and residents flocked to participating CoolCrafter locations to taste what each had to offer, and even more are expected this summer. Guests are encouraged to try each location’s drink and then vote for which they like best at coolcrafttrail.com/summer.

In partnership with “Flamingo Magazine,” Florida’s only statewide lifestyle magazine covering people, travel, outdoor pursuits, food, conservation, culture and style across the state, guest judges will visit top locations and sample each of their concoctions. At the end of the competition, the guest judges will then name the overall CoolCraft Summer Beverage winner. WVTAA will also crown the “People’s Choice” winners in both the alcoholic and non-alcoholic categories based on visitors’ votes.

“We had such a great time and an amazing response to the competition last year and couldn’t wait to do it again this year, and make it even better,” said Georgia Turner, Executive Director of the West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority. “With even more CoolCrafters participating, there is a wide variety of tastes and experiences for everyone to enjoy.”

This summer’s vibrant concoctions include both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Alcoholic Beverages: 

• Central 28 Brewing’s “Flamingo Sunshine,” a Florida ale infused with the natural flavors of hibiscus and zesty orange peel, creating a refreshing and invigorating taste 
• Persimmon Hollow’s “Kermit’s Radler,” combines the crispness of beer with the Hollow’s house-made lime soda – a collaboration with another CoolCrafter, Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe
• The Lounge at the Artisan Hotel Downtown’s “Southern Summer Nite,” a bourbon cocktail balancing the rich smooth character of Old Forester 86 with lemon juice, strawberry simple syrup and a splash of ginger beer, served in a strawberry sugar-rimmed coupe glass over crushed ice
• Wander Bar Cocktail Lounge’s “One Leg to Stand On,” that embodies Cachaça, a Basilian fermented sugar-cane liquor, paired with rum, passionfruit, guava and banana
• Frederick’s Wine Room’s “Ranch Water Sipper,” a refreshing libation featuring grapefruit juice, white tequila and soda water – add jalapeño for a touch of valor
• Blue Springs Brewing & Riverwalk Pizzeria’s “Pretty in Pink Saison,” which showcases the artistry of a Saison infused with the vibrant flavors of hibiscus and lavender
• The Table Above Deck’s “Violet Calypso,” a maritime-inspired cocktail anchored by Gin Lane Violet, infused with the essence of the sea, and guided by the gentle breeze of lavender syrup and the allure of Saint Germain
• The Table Below Deck’s “Barbie Margarita,” a maritime marvel anchored by Tequila Blanco, a spirit as bold as the ocean waves, and accompanied by the smooth currents of RumHaven coconut rum
• Abbey Bar’s “Abbey Summer Sangria,” a refreshing summer rose’ sangria with hints of orange, strawberry and lemon
• Hyderhead Brewery’s “CoolCraft Raspberry Porter,” a rich Porter artistically laced with the natural sweetness of ripe raspberries, offers a deeply satisfying and smoothly nuanced flavor profile

Non-Alcoholic Beverages:

• Beeatroot’s “Strawmingo,” a mouthwatering summertime smoothie, featuring frozen organic strawberries, lemon, maple syrup and house-made coconut milk
• Trilogy Coffee Roasting Co.’s “Peachy Keen,” a bright, bubbly and refreshing matcha tea with peach puree and San Pellegrino sparkling water
• Trilogy Kitchen’s “Cold Brew Lemonade,” lightly sweetened, all-natural lemonade balanced with your favorite Trilogy Coffee cold brew
• Centro Tea Co. & Plant-Based Kitchen’s “French Flamingo,” a natural limeade topped with their house blend organic J’aime Berries herbal tea
• Sidecar Market’s “Grapefruit Espresso Spritz,” a refreshing twist on a classic spritz featuring espresso, grapefruit juice, simple syrup and grapefruit seltzer
• Riverfolk Coffee Co.’s “Boat Soda,” a refreshing mocktail experience made with grapefruit juice and tonic, mixed with Riverfolk’s homemade cold brew
• Pat and Toni’s Sweet Thing’s “Sprite Spritzer,” a playful blend of lemon Italian ice and Sprite
• Whits Frozen Custard’s “Whit’s DeLand Sunrise,” a captivating creation of vanilla custard infused with orange and cherry, poured over orange soda and topped with whipped cream
• The Lounge at the Artisan Hotel Downtown’s “Southern Summer Tea,” just like the “Southern Summer Nite” but with iced tea instead of bourbon

For the complete list of CoolCraft Summer entries, and to start planning your summer, visit coolcrafttrail.com/summer. Last summer’s CoolCraft winners were the “Red Sangria” from NEST in the alcoholic category and Centro Tea Co. & Plant-Based Kitchen won the non-alcoholic category with its “Summer Peach Tea Spritzer.”

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An easy drive from the ATL, Americus, Georgia, offers wineries, the Windsor and whiskey for a weekend to remember.

Set the scene for relaxation and head to Wolf Creek Plantation, which is more than doubling its vineyards’ size in 2018. The winery will expand to 2,500+ vines covering more than twenty acres of beautiful vineyards, adding to its roster the Dixie Red variety this year, and bringing the total to ten different varieties of muscadine grapes, including Early Fry (bronze), Fry (bronze), Late Fry (bronze), Fry Seedless (red), Tara (bronze), Supreme (red), Carlos (bronze), Noble (red), Ison (red) and Dixie Red (bronze). Free tours are offered. Hold hands with your special someone while strolling through the vineyards before enjoying sips in the tasting room. (207 Wolf Creek Dr., Americus, GA 31709)remember.

Plan a creative date and explore the artsy side of Americus. Mobile Glassblowing Studios is a one-of-a-kind business that creates portable furnaces for everyone, from the hobbyist to the professional. Their Americus location has a small gallery of pieces and offers classes to the public through Hot Glass Academy. (131B Cotton Ave., Americus, GA 31709)

Nearby, the Georgia Southwestern Fine Arts Building Gallery showcases the work of students, as well as visiting artists, in the Department of Visual Arts. It contains a second gallery, as well–the James Earl Carter Gallery. (800 Georgia Southwestern State, University Dr., Americus, Georgia 31709)

The Americus Center for the Arts is run by the Americus-Sumter County Arts Council, and features the work of local, and young, artists. The Arts Council also puts on workshops, camps and events. (326 W Forsyth St., Americus, GA 31709)

It’s five o’clock somewhere in Americus, Georgia! Thirteenth Colony Distilleries began as friends making moonshine for holiday gifts, but they’re now one of the state’s best craft distilleries. You can try their lineup of award-winning whiskeys, bourbons, vodkas and gins in the form of a craft cocktail from one of the local bars. The company’s name is a nod to the state of Georgia, which was the last, or thirteenth, of the American colonies. (305 N Dudley St., Americus, GA 31907)

Catch a show at the Rylander Theater, a hub for the performing arts, carefully restored and renovated from its early days as a vaudeville theater to a modern venue. Reopened in 1999, the theater has their own troupe and also hosts concerts and plays. (310 W Lamar St., Americus, GA 31709)

At the end of the day, rest easy at the Windsor Hotel, the crown jewel of Americus since its opening in 1892. The icon of downtown Americus celebrated its 125th anniversary in June 2017, and draws in visitors with its Victorian architecture. The hotel has hosted guests like Al Capone and President Carter. It was donated to the city in 1978 and reopened in 1991. Locals love to hang out at Floyd’s Pub–a great place to savor sips from Thirteenth Colony Distilleries. (125 W Lamar St., Americus, GA 31709)

If you go

In between adventures, satisfy hunger pangs–discover top picks for best bites in Americus. Plan to visit around a special event like April’s Hot Glass Craft Beer Festival, the Spring Festival at Wolf Creek Plantation–complete with free tastings, free tours, free admission and the oh-so-satisfying wine slushies, Memorial Day weekend at Andersonville National Historic Site, and June’s Red, White, and Blues event in Americus.

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HELEN, GEORGIA—MARCH 2023—The 2023 Georgia Wine Highway is back for 2023 and lasting the entire month of March. This unique wine event gives visitors to Alpine Helen and the North Georgia Mountains an opportunity to sample varietals from some of the area’s most beloved wineries, all month long. 

Sponsored by the Georgia Wine Producers, this year’s event features over 45 of Georgia’s finest vineyards, several of which are located in and around Helen. Wineries will be offering tastings, vineyard tours and event participants will also receive a commemorative souvenir wine glass. Guests can experience the Georgia Wine Highway through a physical passport, which can be purchased at participating wineries or through a digital passport purchased through the Georgia Wine Highway app. Valued at over $600, passports are priced at just $75 each and are valid for the entire month of March. Here’s a taste of what you’ll experience at some of Helen’s participating wineries.

Located just outside of Helen in nearby Cleveland, CeNita Vineyards, Winery and Tasting Room invites visitors to enjoy a variety of white and red wines in a casual, friendly atmosphere. Established in 2008, owners Greg and Carol Chambers worked hard growing and making Estate wines and in 2015, they opened CeNita’s Tasting Room to the public. Guests are welcome to sip and relax while enjoying the vineyard views, play a game of corn-hole, relax in one of the hammocks or chat with the knowledgeable staff members in the tasting room. CeNita Vineyards, Winery and Tasting Room, 591 Dock Dorsey Road, Cleveland, Georgia 30528; 706-865-7478

Located just a half mile south of Alpine Helen in Nacoochee Village, Habersham Winery is one of Georgia’s oldest and largest wineries. This locally and family-owned winery has been producing award-winning Georgia wines since 1983. Featuring two vineyards, the first of which was originally planted in the late 1970s, Habersham grows a variety of grapes including Chardonnay, Seyval Blanc, Vidal Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and several others. Guests are invited to tour the vineyard and enjoy a wine tasting in the Tasting Room. Reservations are not needed for individuals and small groups. Tastings stop a half hour before closing each day. Habersham Winery, 7025 South Main Street, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-878-9463

Kaya Vineyard and Winery is a real Appalachian Mountain retreat featuring a winery and Tasting Room built atop a ridge at 1600 feet above elevation offering some of the most exquisite panoramic views of the North Georgia mountains. Located in nearby Dahlonega, Kaya Vineyard and Winery was one of the first and largest vineyards in the area. In addition to the vineyard, winery and tasting room, Kaya also offers on-property lodging in luxury cottages. Owned and operated by the Werkheiser family, Kaya wines are made primarily from estate-grown grapes produced on property and planted with classic European, Italian and American varietals. Grapes are hand harvested and gently processed in Kaya’s own facility, which is what the family calls the art of wine. Kaya Vineyard and Winery, 5400 Town Creek Road, Dahlonega, Georgia 30533; 706-219-3514

After growing blackberries and keeping bees for quite some time, the husband and wife team at Sweet Acre Farms Winery decided to turn their “you-pick” farm into Hall County’s first winery. Specializing in “country wines,” the wines produced at Sweet Acre Farms Winery are reminiscent of those Southern families used to make. Guests will enjoy sampling wines in the tasting room and perusing the gift shop. Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the wine slushies. They are known to be legendary! Situated in the beautiful foothills of the Northeast Georgia mountains, Sweet Acre Farms Winery is located just 10 minutes north of Gainesville. Sweet Acre Farms Winery, 8016 South Main Street, Suite B-1, Helen, Georgia 30545; 706-969-7111

Home of Twisted wines, Sylvan Valley Lodge and Cellars offers several varietals including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Sweet Rose and more. The Tasting Room is open year-round Thursday through Sunday and offers tastings, charcuterie boards and dips to accompany tastings. In addition to the Tasting Room and cellar, guests can also stay on property at the Lodge in any of several lodge options and suites. Whether you are stopping in to visit the tasting room or staying at the Lodge, there’s no doubt you will fall in love with the rustic charm of Sylvan Valley Lodge and Cellars! Sylvan Valley Lodge and Cellars, 747 Duncan Bridge Road, Sautee, Georgia, 30571; 706-865-7371

Yonah Mountain Vineyards is a sprawling 200 acre family winery located on the southeastern base of Yonah Mountain in nearby Cleveland. After purchasing the former farmland in 2005, Bob and Jane Miller started their journey in the wine industry. Strong family values are the foundation of Yonah Mountain Vineyards and making world class wines and enjoying the process is the ultimate goal of this husband and wife team. With 20 planted acres, Yonah Mountain Vineyards is currently producing Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, Petit Manseng, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot. Offering a variety of tasting and tour options including Reserve Wine Tastings with owners Bob and Jane Miller, guests are sure to walk away with a deeper understanding of the ins and outs of operating a winery from planting and harvesting to the barrel aging process. Yonah Mountain Vineyards, 1717 Hwy 255 South, Cleveland, Georgia, 30528; 706-878-5522

If you go

Before hitting the Georgia Wine Highway event, be sure to purchase your Passport at a participating winery or through the Georgia Wine Highway app. Next, plan your stay in Alpine Helen. Whether you long for a quiet mountain cabin hideaway, a cozy bed and breakfast, a charming vacation rental or a luxe boutique hotel experience, there are many lodging options available in Alpine Helen. Top off your stay with ample dining options from al fresco dining by the water to pizza, German cuisine, family friendly cafes and more. Lastly, don’t miss shopping in downtown Alpine Helen. This distinctive Bavarian inspired destination is full of unique boutiques, gift shops and more!

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BLUE RIDGE, GEORGIA–JULY 2022–For the ultimate adults-only weekend getaway, Blue Ridge, Georgia, about 90 minutes north of Atlanta, is the go-to destination for savoring football Saturdays with friends, adventurous outings, brewery tastings and outdoor fire pit gatherings. Offering several major trail systems, including access to the Appalachian Trail which extends for more than 2,000 miles to Maine through many of the states on the Eastern Seaboard, this is a hiker’s paradise where nature sets the scene for good times. Pursue these paths for outdoor explorations on one of the many trails in a system of over 300 miles, including short trails suitable for beginning hikers. Then wind down with sudsy sips at local breweries and tasting rooms before continuing the adventure, cooling off with excursions to nearby waterfalls.

Take a hike

1. Three Forks to Long Creek Falls–The hike to Long Creek Falls is a great way to experience the Appalachian Trail. This adventure includes a scenic 5.3-mile drive into the forest following Noontootla Creek to the Three Forks area where you will begin your two-mile round-trip hike following Long Creek to a beautiful cascading waterfall with two drops totaling 50 feet. Take a picnic to enjoy at the falls.
2. Swinging Bridge Trail–Another awesome excursion requires rambling the Benton MacKaye Trail south from Hwy 60 for three miles to be rewarded with sweeping views of the pristine Toccoa River flowing beneath a structure known simply as the “Swinging Bridge.” The longest suspension bridge east of the Mississippi, the passage was built by the USDA Forest Service and the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club in the mid-1970s.
3. Hike to the Appalachian Trail terminus–One of the greatest outdoor adventures in the world, the Appalachian Trail, begins in Fannin County at the top of Springer Mountain.
4. Aska Trails–This is a popular 17-mile trail system near Blue Ridge, with hikes that intersect and loop ranging from one- to 5.5-miles.
5. Benton MacKaye Trail to Fall Branch Falls–A short distance away and part of the larger Benton MacKaye Trail, Fall Branch Falls is a double waterfall with mountain laurel and rhododendron growing along the trail and creek bank. The hike to the falls is about 30 minutes round-trip.

Get sudsy

1. Angry Hops Brewing was created by two guys who have a love for craft beer. One day they decided to take the leap and start their own brewery in Blue Ridge. Once they started working together everything just clicked. They have a love for the traditional styles of beer, but also push the envelope on popular styles like IPAs, stouts, and sours, so they are positive they will have a beer for every taste. 341 East Main Street; www.facebook.com/AngryHopsBrewing
2. Embracing the copper mining heritage, the motto of Copperhill Brewery is “Craft Beer You’ll Dig!” Located just a few steps over the “Blue Line” in McCaysville, their passion is brewing high quality, diverse and exceptional tasting craft beer. Brewing craft beer is an art form and their goal is to brew an exceptional selection of craft beers that will set Copperhill Brewery apart. The tap room is both a local hangout and much-loved establishment. 105 Ocoee Street Copperhill, Tennessee;  www.facebook.com/CopperhillBrewery
3. Grumpy Old Men Brewing, Blue Ridge’s premier nanobrewery, was founded in 2013 and strives to bring people together over delicious beer and unique community. With 24 taps, novices and experts can find plenty to enjoy, including flagships like Choco Blanco White Chocolate Wheat Ale, Scentsation Double IPA, Hell’s Holler Porter, as well as seasonal rotations. 1315 East Main Street; www.facebook.com/GrumpyOldMenBrewing
4. Fannin Brewing Company sums up just about all you need to know: Fresh Air, Fresh Water, Fresh Beer. Being local is also important to Fannin Brewing; it’s in the name of their beers. Hiawassee Golden Ale, Toccoa Brown and Chief Whitepath White IPA, along with several specialty and seasonal beers. Owner Tom Fennell spent time in German biergartens, sampling a host of German beer styles, and was bitten by the craft beer bug in 2012, when he brought his brewing skills to Fannin County. 3758 East 1^st Street; www.facebook.com/FanninBrewingCompany
5. Mercier Orchards is one of the South’s largest orchards and a family farm for 65 years. Buy just-picked fruit, local vegetables and baked goods, visit the tasting room and sample Georgia’s first hard cider and fruity wines like strawberry, blueberry, blackberry and apple. 8660 Blue Ridge Drive; www.facebook.com/pages/Mercier-Orchards/108441886766
6. Bear Claw Vineyards & Winery is known for breathtaking mountain views, pristine bubbling springs, amazing fishing and wildlife and unique and romantic treehouse accommodations.  Its vineyards are densely planted, which is rarer to see, producing less grapes but better wine. Live music on Friday, Saturday and Sunday along with a food truck. 2281 Tennis Court Road; www.facebook.com/BearClawWine

8. Insider Tips: View or download the Blue Ridge Brews Winery and Tastings Trail map to find more than 20 locations.  Book a winery tour with Mountain Transportation for the ultimate date. (706) 851-9465

Chase waterfalls

1. Fall Branch Falls–The upper portion of Fall Branch Falls is a series of cascades that lead to a single major drop of some 30 feet, with the water plunging into a deep pool at the base of the falls. These falls, along the Benton MacKaye Trail, west of Aska Road, are a shorter, although a bit harder walk than Long Creek Falls.
2. Long Creek Falls–The most popular of the waterfalls in Fannin County is Long Creek Falls, which can be seen by hiking down a short side trail from the combined Appalachian/Benton MacKaye Trail. These falls total about 50 feet in two distinct drops. A leisurely 30-minute hike to the falls is uphill on the way in, downhill on the way out.
3. Sea Creek Falls–Located in the Cooper Creek Scenic Area, Sea Creek Falls are an easy walk of less than .1 mile. The first, or upper falls are a series of steep cascades ending in a brief drop. The second falls are also a series of steep cascades. When the water flow is heavy either in late winter or spring, or after a summer rain, these are a remarkable sight.
4. Amicalola Falls–About 21 miles from Ellijay on Hwy 52 is a spectacular 729-foot falls, the tallest cascading waterfall east of the Mississippi River. Also, a strenuous 8.5-mile approach trail leads from the park to Springer Mountain, the start of the famous Appalachian Trail.
5. Take a hike with this rundown of Hiking Trails in Blue Ridge, McCaysville and the Copper Basin.

Satisfy hunger pangs

1. It’s possible to have fresh, sustainable seafood far from the coast at Whiskey & Water – Seafood and Bourbon Bar. Choose from oysters, clams, mussels, lobster and saltwater fish in on-point appetizers and entrees, with delicious options for those who don’t love or can’t eat seafood. 187 Depot Street; www.facebook.com/whiskeywaterBR
2. Black Sheep features a locally sourced, chef-inspired New Americana menu and a Wine Spectator-recognized wine list in a historic home shaded by a 200-year-old oak. Favorites include Fried Calamari, Cold Water Oysters, Ribeye and Lamb Lollipop Chops, as well as desserts and cocktails featuring house-produced moonshine. 480 West Main Street;  www.facebook.com/pages/Black-Sheep-Restaurant-Bar-Patio/293729370780405?ref=hl
3. Nearby, The Dogwood delights with 150 outside seats, a huge hand painted mural and 100+ year old trees—a completely unique dining and drinks experience that is ideal for soaking in the beautiful Georgia weather and amazing live music. 520 West Main Street; www.facebook.com/The-Dogwood-103403064852369
4. Chester Brunnenmeyer’s Bar and Grill is a seasoned pro when it comes to drawing groups in for a great time. The rustic American bar and grill features Southeastern-inspired food, departures from the ordinary, seasonally inspired selections, an extensive wine list, signature cocktails, and regionally crafted beer. 733 East Main Street, www.facebook.com/chesterbrunnenmeyers

For a complete list of dining options including desserteries, visit https://www.blueridgemountains.com/restaurants/ 

If you go

Whether you need a cozy getaway for two or a group of 40 there is a perfect cabin, luxury vacation home, hotel or bed and breakfast waiting for you in Blue Ridge. Choices include lodging with stunning mountain views, creekside retreats, riverfront fishing lodges, cabins on the lake, quaint bed and breakfasts, rustic or luxury cabin rentals, resorts, hotels and campgrounds. Peruse them all at https://www.blueridgemountains.com/where-to-stay/ or contact the Fannin County Chamber of Commerce,www.BlueRidgeMountains.com, 1-800-899-MTNS.

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DeLand, FL – It’s time to hit the trail and find beverages as “cool” as their destination! West Volusia County, Florida’s eclectic mix of attractions, restaurants and boutiques make it a spectacular spot to visit … and now it’s even cooler, with the “CoolCraft Beverage Trail.”

West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority is proud to kick off the beverage trail starting on November 27, 2020. Visitors will be able to hit the trail for the best “crafts” around … and we aren’t just talking about the beer, though there is plenty. With meads, smoothies, teas, coffees and, of course, some of the best brews, you can tour and taste all the “trail” destinations have to offer.

Who and what you’ll find:

Beer

HyderHead

Following the strict recipes and utilizing non-GMO ingredients, the folks at HyderHead invite you to have a wee taste of the highlands in their legendary Downtown DeLand brewery, themed after the founders’ Scottish heritage.

Blue Springs Brewery

Florida inspired and Volusia brewed, Blue Springs Brewery, named after nearby Blue Spring State Park, brings delicious food and drinks to the heart of West Volusia County for people of all ages to enjoy.

Central 28 Beer Company

The culmination of 25-plus years of brewing outstanding beers of exceptional quality, Central 28 Beer Company is a meaningful leader in the local craft brewery scene, offering crisp, superior beers.

Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co.

Sporting American and Belgian-style beers, Persimmon Hollow Brewing Co. is the dream of two brewers and best friends who wanted nothing more than to open a craft brewery in the heart of historic Downtown DeLand.

Coffee

Trilogy Coffee Roasting Co.

Trilogy is a small batch coffee roaster that is locally known for its ethically sourced, exceptional specialty coffee. Roasting each batch each day, Trilogy is the local expert in bringing out the ideal flavor from each coffee bean.

Breyting Community Roaster

Founded by enduring friends Von Coven and Fred Schneider (frontman of the iconic rock group, The B-52’s). The roastery was created to do one thing well, support non-profit organizations through the sales of coffee. (Open virtually 24/7 and locally for select seasonal pop-ups.)

MG Coffee Brews & Bites

Enjoy organic, single-origin, fresh roasted coffee and teas from around the world, along with your choice of freshly baked pastries, cakes and sweets … and don’t forget the sandwiches at this unique DeBary bakery.

Wine

The Elusive Grape

Featuring more than 40 different wines by the glass and a selection of cold beer, The Elusive Grape has been proudly serving as “DeLand’s living room” since 2003.

Elliot Vineyards

Enjoy the unique tastes of the Sunshine State with locally grown Muscadine Grapes, available all year long frozen, and learn the art of the craft of winemaking at Elliott Vineyards, home of the Sandhill Crane Gang Wine Club.

Spring Garden Vineyard

Every year, from August through September, enjoy picking your own muscadine grapes at Spring Garden Vineyard. Its Country Store also sells jellies, jams and other canned muscadine products, along with other wine making supplies.

Other

Odd Elixir Meadworks

Specializing in traditional mead techniques with a creative approach to ingredients and flavor, Odd Elixir is a nano concept winery inspired by the amazing local flavors of Florida.

Beeatroot

From 100% Authentic Organic Cold Pressed Juice, to Organic Whole Fruit Smoothies, Superfood Smoothie Bowls, Wellness Shots and more, Beeatroot is West Volusia’s holistic “Farmacy,” located in the heart of Downtown DeLand.

Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe

What may seem like an odd addition to the CoolCraft Beverage Trail is actually one of our favorite stops in the area. Specializing in everything key lime, Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe’s crown jewel is its Key Lime Juice. Pair it with their key lime pie on a stick, dipped in Belgian chocolate, or any of their other key lime goodies, and you’re guaranteed to leave your mouth puckered.

You can also win on the “trail!” Taste and share your 5 favorites on Instagram by using #CoolCraftTrail and follow @VisitWestVolusia to win your FREE pint glass koozie. For more information, visit www.coolcrafttrail.com.

Conveniently located between Orlando and Daytona Beach, West Volusia County, Florida offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy parks, pristine natural beauty, historical homes like The Stetson Mansion, a vibrant downtown and award-winning restaurants within 14 distinct communities.

Be sure to visit historic Downtown DeLand – voted America’s BEST Mainstreet – and its many delectable restaurants; take flight with the award-winning Wings of the West; or if you want a bit more adventure, head out on the St. Johns River or explore the Blue Spring State Park. These are just a few of the many natural, cultural and historical area attractions you find when you visit West Volusia County.

West Volusia Tourism Advertising Authority’s mission is to develop and support marketing and advertising programs intended to bring increased tourism dollars into West Volusia, and enhance its image as a tourism destination. It works with area accommodations, tourism service providers, attractions and resources, and event promoters to represent the area to potential visitors, tour operators, travel and meeting planners, and the media. visitwestvolusia.com

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