Some of these buyers won’t think twice about where their money goes. But you’re different. That’s why you’re here. You care about the workers who made your clothes, the farmers who grew your food, and the planet your kids will inherit.

Well, you don’t have to choose between saving money and supporting companies that do right by people and the environment anymore. Some brands are actually proving that profits and principles can coexist.

Here are a few ethical brands that are trying to do better this Black Friday and are perfect holiday gift ideas:

Ecosa

Ecosa’s Black Friday sale takes up to 35% off everything: mattresses, sofa beds, bed frames, pillows and more.

Unlike brands that slap “eco-friendly” on everything, Ecosa is a certified B Corporation with a 106.8 impact score. For context, you only need 80 to qualify as a B Corp. That means independent verification of their environmental and social practices.

Every Ecosa mattress cover and Rio Sofa Bed fabric is crafted from recycled ocean-bound plastic bottles, which are OceanCycle™ certified. With mattress warranties of up to 15 years, you’re investing in something built to last, not a mattress you’ll need to replace in a few years. Ecosa offers savings during Black Friday without compromising on either quality or ethics, making them worth supporting if your bedroom needs an upgrade.

Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective, known for activewear, is a leader in sustainable fashion. Its size range is genuinely inclusive, and the designs work too.

Even Forbes recognizes it for its sustainable practices. They turn recycled water bottles into fabrics. They also direct 1% of every purchase to a charity of the buyer’s choice. This proves that Girlfriend Collective thinks about social impact and environmental responsibility, not just profits.(2)

They make everything ethically. Fair living wages, safe working conditions, and transparent production. They’re not hiding anything about how their clothes get made.

This Black Friday, Girlfriend Collective is offering affordable deals. You’ll get pieces that last, feel good to wear, and don’t harm the planet.

Caraway

Most people spend a lot of money on kitchenware. In 2024, the global kitchenware market hit USD$72.8 billion. This number is expected to rise to reach about USD$109.7 billion by 2034. This means that brands have to be more innovative and sustainable to meet the rising demands. (3)

Caraway gets it. Their ceramic-coated posts and pans skip toxic chemicals you’ll likely find in cheaper cookware. The manufacturing process is cleaner, and they use eco-packaging instead of mountains of plastic.

Their products look good too. Clean lines, thoughtful design, and colors that work in a real kitchen.

This Black Friday, they’re taking a good percentage off sitewide on select products. The cookware and bakeware sets are usually the highlight. You’ll save money now and get appliances that are safer for your family and easier on the planet.

Ethique

Ethique makes sustainable beauty products: solid bars for hair, face, and body care. They use compostable and eco-friendly packaging to remove plastic from personal care routines.

But that’s not all. They use fair-trade ingredients and certified organic botanicals too. And the people growing and harvesting these raw materials receive fair pay.

One bar replaces multiple bottles, and it lasts way longer than you’d think. Your shower gets less cluttered, and you’re not tossing plastic every month.

If you’d like to try them someday, Black Friday is a great time. You get an easy swap and make a real impact on a budget.

HALOBLK

In the first quarter of 2025, Tesla produced more than 362,000 vehicles and delivered about 336,000. That’s a lot of new cars that need accessories. But how they’re produced matters.(4)

HALOBLK makes premium accessories for Tesla vehicles. These include wheel covers, pedals, and interior upgrades. All have clean designs and solid materials that withstand daily wear.

Some of their products use recycled materials, reducing production waste. They’re open about how they produce parts and where materials come from.

HALOBLK may not be a traditional sustainability brand, but its products last long enough. So, you won’t need to replace them every few months. And that matters in sustainability.

Black Friday usually brings solid discounts on their lineup. If you plan to upgrade your Tesla, this is when those improvements become more affordable.

Wrapping Up

Black Friday is full of good deals. It’s also a chance to shop from ethical brands. The options here prove you can find responsible production and fair labor without giving up convenience.

One good purchase can cut waste, support better working conditions, or just add something durable to your home. As you browse the sales this Black Friday, pick ethical brands. This way, your money will count for something more than just buying things.

References

1. “Mastercard SpendingPulse: US Black Friday Retail Sales Up +3.4% vs. Last Year”, Source: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20241130514905/en/Mastercard-SpendingPulse-US-Black-Friday-Retail-Sales-Up-3.4-vs.-Last-Year
2. “The Best Leggings For Women: Our Staff Picks For Exercise, Lounging And Travel”, Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbes-personal-shopper/article/the-best-leggings-for-women/
3. “Kitchenware Industry Outlook Report 2025-2034: Opportunities, Growth Drivers, Market Trends, Segmental Data, Key Players, Consumer Behaviour Analysis”, Source: https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2025/05/30/3090885/28124/en/Kitchenware-Industry-Outlook-Report-2025-2034-Opportunities-Growth-Drivers-Market-Trends-Segmental-Data-Key-Players-Consumer-Behaviour-Analysis.html
4. “Tesla Growth and Production Statistics: How Many Vehicles Are Sold Across the Globe?”, Source: https://www.investing.com/academy/statistics/tesla-facts/

Looking for a weekend escape packed with small-town charm and big outdoor energy? Say hello to Villa Rica, Georgia—where history, hiking, hole-in-ones, and handcrafted wine are just 35 minutes west of Atlanta.

Tucked off Interstate 20, Villa Rica is more than a charming Southern town—it’s your adventure basecamp for summer fun. Whether you’re hiking historic trails, sipping local wine, or panning for gold where prospectors once stood, Villa Rica delivers outdoor experiences with a twist of history.

Take a Walk Through Time at Clinton Nature Preserve

Clinton Nature Preserve is a 200-acre woodland wonder that is home to peaceful trails, a modern playground, and Carnes Cabin, a pre-Civil War homestead listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Catch a Concert or Event at The Mill Amphitheater

Head downtown to The Mill Amphitheater, Villa Rica’s 2,500-seat green-space venue for everything from classic car shows to comedy nights and live music. Plan your visit to Villa Rica around an event (trust us, the locals show up in style), or stop by just to soak in the good vibes and downtown charm.

Get Your Gold Fix at Pine Mountain Gold Museum

Did you know Villa Rica was home to one of America’s first gold rushes? Travel back to 1826 at the Pine Mountain Gold Museum, the only gold museum in Georgia located on an actual mine site. Tour the grounds, explore the interactive exhibits, and pan for real gold and gemstones—perfect for kids and history lovers alike.

Tee Off in Style at Three Top Golf Courses

Villa Rica is home to three championship courses, each offering unique layouts and scenic challenges:

• Mirror Lake Golf Club: Two full courses—Lake and Mountain—plus a cozy clubhouse for post-round bites.
• The Frog Golf Club: A Tom Fazio-designed gem, this award-winning course is as beautiful as it is challenging. It’s also an Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary!
• Fairfield Plantation Golf & Club: Designed by Willard Byrd, this course pairs Bentgrass greens and Bermuda fairways with year-round tee times.

Sip History at Little Vine Vineyards & Winery

Little Vine Vineyards is the first winery in west-central Georgia in more than 100 years—and it’s reclaiming the region’s pre-Prohibition legacy of fine wine. Family-owned and beautifully rustic, the vineyard grows bunch grapes on land that once rivaled California in wine production. Tastings run Friday to Sunday, often with live music on Saturdays. Sit, sip, and savor.

Explore Downtown

Downtown Villa Rica is walkable, welcoming, and full of surprises. Pop into local boutiques, grab coffee at a corner café, or browse antiques before heading back home. If you’re visiting on a weekend, check out the downtown event calendar—you never know when a festival, farmers market, or street party might pop up.

Where to Stay: Rest Easy or Retreat in Seclusion

Traveling with family?
The Holiday Inn Express is right off I-20 and offers convenience, comfort, and proximity to all of Villa Rica’s top spots. Spacious rooms, a solid breakfast, and easy highway access make this a great home base.

Looking for romance?
Escape to the Villa Rica Bed & Breakfast, a secluded 80-acre retreat designed just for couples. With themed rooms, serene ponds, and private woodland walks, this adults-only escape is ideal for reconnecting in nature—with no distractions.

Learn more at VIllaRica.org

I was born and raised in Cadillac and while growing up here there was not much to do. You basically had like three options, go to the movies, bowling, or do an outdoor activity like swimming, hiking, taking out a four wheeler on the trails, fishing, skiing or snowboarding. You get the gist of it and a lot of people couldn’t afford the fancy outdoor toys including my family.

I spent a lot of time outdoors, hanging out with the neighbors and riding my bike. Thinking back on it, I now realize how few activities Cadillac had compared to the places I’ve lived since. It kind of makes me sad.

After a number of years away, I moved back last year and I’m rediscovering my hometown through fresh eyes and finding that there are so many things to do now compared to a decade ago.

Summer Fun For Locals and Visitors Alike

Camping

Cadillac offers great places to camp with a tent or camper, there are even cabin rentals on the lake!

Right between the lakes you have Mitchell State Park that offers many sites as well as some cabins. The benefit of staying at this one is you’re right between two lakes and across the street from Carl T. Johnson Hunting & Fishing Center. The center offers hiking trails and numerous events throughout the year. This summer you can take a fly fishing seminar in July. Be sure to check out the other numerous activities available this summer. Another benefit of staying at the state park is the accessibility to nearby restaurants, and most importantly, coffee. Also, downtown Cadillac is just on the other side of Lake Cadillac about 10 minutes drive away.

Another campground to check out on the lake is Hemlock Campground. I haven’t stayed at Hemlock, but I’m definitely curious to try it. It looks perfect for campers that like a bit more privacy.

Shopping and Eating

Cadillac’s charming downtown is a delightful mix of retail shops, restaurants, and coffee spots. Some of our favorites include:

• Serendipity and The Bird House: Great for unique finds.
• Chunky Bear Coffee: A cozy spot to sip a cup of coffee.
• Wildflour Bakery: A perfect place to send a letter to your future self.

For when you’re feeling hungry, you can stop by Indian Spice, Clam Lake Beer Co., or Mi Mezcal Mexican for a delicious meal.

Gardening Stops You Should Visit This Summer

If you’re into gardening, Cadillac and the surrounding area are home to some great greenhouses and garden centers:

Find outdoor fun in Woodstock, Georgia, just 35 minutes north of the Atlanta perimeter, you’ll discover one of the best places to walk, bike, paddle, and golf.

From trails for walking, running and mountain biking to golf, Woodstock offers the satisfaction of scenery while getting a workout with outdoor activities you’d expect to find much farther afield.

10 Ways To Enjoy The Outdoors In Woodstock

Lake Allatoona

Ten minutes from Woodstock are the southeast shores of Lake Allatoona, a 12,000-acre water-sports and fishing paradise encompassing 270 miles of shoreline.

While Allatoona Lake is one of the country’s most frequently visited Army Corps of Engineers lakes (nearly seven million yearly visitors), after the summer peak boating and camping season it’s more peaceful and serene.

Hike to a hidden battlefield or climb a ridge to an 1860s ironworks with a fascinating history.

With its setting on Allatoona, Red Top Mountain State Park is a biking and hiker’s haven with its own unique recreation and programming.

More than 15 miles of trails wind through the forested park, providing opportunities for exercise and nature photography. The gravel-topped, four-mile Iron Hill Trail is open to both hikers and bikers, offering pretty views of the lake’s shoreline.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Walk or rent bicycles and ride the 20 miles of the Greenprints Trail System, a series of multi-use trails along shaded creeks in and around Woodstock.

At Olde Rope Mill Park on the Little River, take the paved and dirt trails around the cotton mill ruins, over a bridge across the river and read the historical markers highlighting the area’s history. The serious mountain bike trails at Olde Rope Mill Park are consistently rated in the top 10 trails in Georgia by Singletracks.com.

One of the most popular mountain bike trails in the U.S. is the Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trail System in nearby Canton.

Red Top Mountain State Park is a biking and hiker’s haven with its own unique recreation and programming. More than 15 miles of trails wind through the forested park, providing opportunities for exercise and nature photography. The gravel-topped, four-mile Iron Hill Trail is open to both hikers and bikers, offering pretty views of the lake’s shoreline.

The Noonday Creek Trail runs from the center of downtown Woodstock, allowing families to park in town and ride along the 1.43 miles at their leisure. The whole family will enjoy exploring by scooter, bike or on foot.

Need a bike rental? In addition to Murph’s Surf, Sixes Pit Bicycle Shop offers rentals, repairs and adjustments and is located five minutes from Blankets Creek and 15 minutes away from Rope Mill mountain bike trails.

Kayak/Paddleboard

Murph’s Surf, a bike sales and kayak/paddleboard outfitter offers more than nine locations where you can reserve your kayak or paddleboard.

A popular offering is a three-hour trip to the Little River Marina and back. Call ahead, then pay online and Murph’s Surf brings your paddle gear to you and arranges a pick-up time.

Golf

Hit some balls or get in a stellar round of golf at three Woodstock golf courses.

Eagle Watch Golf Club is an Arnold Palmer-designed course that golfing publications consistently rank among the top places to play in Atlanta.

The Golf Club at Bradshaw Farm, built on historic farm property with views of the North Georgia mountains, offers 27 holes of challenging golf.

Towne Lake Hills Golf Club, designed by Arthur Hills and set among rolling green hills and lovely wooded countryside, receives rave reviews from golfers of all levels.

Outdoor Refreshments

Hey, outdoor activities can include enjoying an inventive craft beer at Reformation Brewery or a sipping a cocktail on the rooftop of Rootstock with a 360 degree view of downtown. We don’t judge. However you want to enjoy the outdoors, from mountain biking to beer drinking, we’re here for you.

Summer Berry Picking

If visiting during the summer, don’t miss Berry Patch Farms. This family -owned and -operated pick-your-own farm located in Woodstock is situated on over 50 acres of land and has been a popular destination since it opened in 1978. Hand pick blueberries during the summer. Admission to the farm is free, just pay for what you pick. Hours vary.

Hot Air Balloon

If you’re looking for something a little above and beyond the typical outdoor adventure check out Balloon Atlanta for a memorable experience that is sure to impress the whole family. Get a bird’s eye view of Atlanta and the surrounding area that everyone will be talking about for years to come.

Weekly Farmer’s Market

Every Saturday, from 8:30 a.m. to noon, April 20 – December 28, 2024, the Woodstock Farm Fresh Market, located on Market Street in Downtown Woodstock, showcases a variety of locally grown products spanning various cultures. It’s a can’t-miss celebration of fresh food and local love.

Outdoor Music Events

From April through July, the Lantern Series takes place on the Woodstock Arts Event Green in Downtown Woodstock and features world-renowned artists. The series consists of different genres, backgrounds and ideologies. From folk to pop, from jazz to funk, there is great music to be heard!

From May through September, enjoy the Woodstock Summer Concert Series. The 2024 season is a mix of music genres. The hits you’ll hear on the Northside Hospital-Cherokee Amphitheater stage this year span music eras from the 60s to today. From metal to grunge, from familiar chart-toppers to honky tonk anthems, the 2024 Season has something for every music fan! See the lineup here. 

You can buy a popsicle mold on amazon.com and make popsicles all year long. Hey, there’s no time frame on a delicious popsicle so if you want to make them in the middle of the winter there is no judgement here. 

This would be a great recipe to make with the kids. Have them choose the fruit they’d like. They can measure and pour the items into the blender, push the button (I bet they’d like watching everything blend together) and help pour the fruit into the molds.

Image and recipe reprinted with permission from www.canadagirleatapaleo.com and HealthyApeture.com.

FRUIT and FRUIT COMBO POPSICLE IDEAS

• Blueberry Raspberry
• Vanilla Cherry
• Strawberry Mango
• Apple Cinnamon
• Peach
• Mango Chili

For combos that include vanilla or a spice you’ll just have to measure with your heart. I haven’t tried all these combos, but my theory is, if it’s good as pie or ice cream its probably just as good as a popsicle.

Go wild, create your own unique flavors. Have each kid pick a fruit and toss them all together to see what happens. 

Lemon Blueberry Popsicles Recipe

Lemon Blueberry Popsicles Directions

1. Blend all ingredients together in a blender. If it is too thick to blend or there is not enough to fill the cups completely, you can use a bit of cold water to level it out.
2. Pour or scoop blended mixture into popsicles and freeze until fully frozen, minimum 2 hours.
3. To remove from popsicle molds, run under hot water until they loosen up and pop out. 
4. Eat immediately. They can stay frozen longer just leave them in the popsicle mold.

The hardest part of this entire recipe is the waiting. Honestly, 2 hours is barely enough so the longer you can wait the better they should be. 12 hours would be awesome, but I totally understand that waiting that long isn’t always an option.

I mean, not to tell on myself or anything, but sometime the “popsicle” might be eaten straight out of the blender.

Don’t judge. I just call it a really thick smoothie. Hey, whatever gets us through the day. 

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Lemon Blueberry Popsicles

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Indulge in our zesty Lemon Blueberry Popsicles! A delightful homemade treat for hot days. Get the recipe now!

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 2 hours

Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup frozen blueberries
• 4 ice cubes
• 4 tbsp. coconut milk
• 3 tbsp. lemon juice
• 2 tbsp. honey

Instructions

1. Blend all ingredients together in a blender. If it is too thick to blend or there is not enough to fill the cups completely, you can use a bit of cold water to level it out.
2. Pour or scoop blended mixture into popsicles and freeze until fully frozen, minimum 2 hours.
3. To remove from popsicle molds, run under hot water until they loosen up and pop out. 
4. Eat immediately. They can stay frozen longer just leave them in the popsicle mold.

Notes

Honestly, 2 hours is barely enough so the longer you can wait the better they should be. 12 hours would be awesome, but I totally understand that waiting that long isn’t always an option.

If you’ve spent any time in Ireland, then you’ve more than likely heard of the Ring of Kerry. It is a justifiably famous and stunningly beautiful route through the wild and untamed southernmost part of Ireland. However, Ireland  has another ring that is just as beautiful and wild with unique attractions and some of the best artisan food in the country. Introducing the Ring of Cork.

The Ring of Cork takes you on a journey where you will time-travel to heritage sites, enjoy picturesque villages and visit attractions while soaking up the breathtakingly beautiful scenery that is a part of the Ring of Cork? Start your journey in Cork City, grab a cheap and comfortable hotel handily located for the open road like the Travelodge Cork Airport Hotel and get ready for one of the great Irish travel secrets.

What is the Ring of Cork?

Let’s get into the nitty gritty of what exactly is the Ring of Cork. It takes in all the area around the second city of the Republic of Ireland, Cork City, and encompasses quaint villages like Castlemartyr, coastal settlements like Crosshaven and heritage towns like Cobh and Youghal along its sixty-six miles of road-ringing East Cork.

You could motor around the Ring in a day but to really enjoy yourself, set at least a long weekend aside while you also could pass a very enjoyable week taking in all the sights.

What to See and What to Do on the Ring of Cork

You could take the scenery almost for granted on the Ring of Cork, there are so many scenic spots along the way but it’s definitely worth stopping at Ballycottton Lighthouse for the amazing cliffside views of the Atlantic Ocean or so you can walk on the nearby beach of Paradise!

If you like your historical towns, then the Ring of Cork is made for you. You can choose from the beautifully maintained narrow winding streets of the medieval town of Youghal with its eccentric town crier whose position dates back all the way to Walter Raleigh. Or pick the Cobh Heritage Centre with its Titanic Experience museum marking the last stop of the ill-fated RMS Titanic as well as the iconic Spike Island nearby which has been a monastery, fort and prison.

Prefer more modern attractions? Then the Ring of Cork will grant your wish with the Cork Fota Wildlife Park where you can meet some of the more exotic local wildlife like rhinos and cheetahs. For a more adult experience, the Jameson Distillery in Midleton is really worth a stop off, at least if you’re not driving, for a dram of one of the best Irish whiskies out there.

For the family you can drive back in time and park up at Ireland’s only drive-in cinema, Movie Junction in Carrigtohill.

Feed on the Delights of the Ring of Cork

Perhaps the incredible scenery and many interesting place to stop and investigate aren’t quite enough to sway you. Well, then let me put my final argument in favour of the Ring of Cork, the local food.

Without exaggeration, the concentration of artisan food producers from eastern Cork is unrivaled anywhere else in Ireland. The quality and variety of food on offer in the many top class restaurants and pubs is quite astonishing for Ireland while the local produce available in the various farmer’s markets in towns like Midleton is stunning.

It’s not just the obvious lamb, beef and dairy that are for sale on the Ring, you’ve also got amazing fresh seafood and a real artisan tradition of ice cream in Cobh and Youghal, especially for those summer months. You’ll never go hungry when you journey around the food-heavenly Ring of Cork.

After you visit the Ring of Cork be sure to explore the Cliffs of Moher.

Learn more at the Ring of Cork Tourism site.

Jeremy shared a brief history with us about how Broadslab began. You can watch the video or continue past to read the recap. It’s a fascinating story of facing adversity and making something new and profitable out of it.

The distillery is located on the family farm where, originally, a living was made selling fruit via an honor system at a roadside stand. That business model sustained the family for years, but then interstate 40 was built and the business dried up.

Jeremy’s granddaddy went to the still at age 5, started distilling at 13 and bootlegged up until 1950’s when he quit, but he shared dozen of distilling and bootlegging stories with Jeremy which peaked his interest. By the time Jeremy was in high school he was making wine and distilling whiskey. No one thought twice about a teenager making his own spirits. The area has a rich history of whiskey making and if your family is from the area you have ties to the tradition.

When people quit coming to the farm and the produce business died Jeremy’s granddad gave him the idea of starting a moonshine museum and putting in a still. At the time Jeremy didn’t have the capital to make the investment, but after he got up a bit in age he purchased 60 acres of the farm property and tended it. After two years he realized that you can’t farm small in America and make a living so in 2007, he decided to run with his granddad’s idea.

In 2008 he built the distilling barn and still from scratch. It took him four years to put together the entire infrastructure for the business, was licensed in 2011 and went to market on August 1st, 2012. From there, Broadslab has quickly become one of the best distillers in the state.

After our tour we headed back to his granddaddy’s house, which has been converted into a tasting room and gift shop, to try what Broadslab has been crafting. For our group Jeremy invited Jordan, mixologist at Chef and the Farmer, to mix up any cocktails of our choice.

Of course, my first choice is always an old fashioned. Jordan gladly mixed one up for me and even added a little flare to top it off.

Broadslab whiskey bourbon is good, but the AppleShine was, hands down, my favorite!

The next time you find yourself in the moonshine capital of North Carolina be sure to stop by Broadslab Distillery for a cocktail and a tour.

Also be sure to swing by the Ava Gardner museum while you’re in the area.

However, if you want to spend your time outdoors during the winter, even if there’s no snow, be sure to check out Winter Outdoor Activities in Northern Michigan – No Snow Required.

Northern Michigan Events You Don’t Want To Miss This Winter

Winter Farmers Market

• Boyne City Indoor Farmer’s Market – Inside Veteran’s Park Pavilion
• Bellaire Winter Farmers Market – Held Inside the Community Center

Live Music

Any number of bars, distillery, breweries, wineries, etc offer live music throughout the week and weekend. A simple facebook event search will find quite a few. However, if you’re in the Cadillac area I recommend checking out the line up at The Truck Stop or The Greenhouse.

Trivia/Rock Star Bingo

Much like the live music option there are a number of places that offer trivia nights and, if you’re lucky, some rendition of Rock Star Bingo which is one of my faves. For Cadillac friends check out this events page. For other areas check the local visitor website or Facebook events. Lately, FB events has been my go to for finding events in other areas.

Wine Tasting Across The Region

There are 3 wine loops in the Leelanau region. They have limited hours during the winter so be sure to check each winery for when they are open.

Sips & Soup is happening in January. Tickets are on sale now – for just $30, attendees will receive a 1.5oz pour of selected wine paired with 3oz of warm and delectable soup from each of the participating wineries!

Taste the Passion is in February. Attendees will receive one selected wine tasting paired with a delectable cuisine option at each of the participating wineries. Tickets range from $25-$45.

Try Your Hand At Euchre

A Michigan fave, if you know how to play or are new to the game you can join an event. Check out Brewery Terra Firma for their Euchre Sundays. This is a great way to play Euchre, meet new people, and enjoy a few pints. Free to play. Gift cards for the winners. Beginners & single players welcome.

Indoor Pickleball

Pickleball is all the rage right now and luckily, northern Michigan has a number of indoor courts. This is a fun, easy-going game that is a lot less strenuous then tennis. Here’s some pickleball courts near you:

• The Wexford Civic Center – Cadillac – Weekdays 8a-11a
• Pickle-U – Williamsburg (opening soon)
• Northern Events Center – Houghton Lake – By Appointment

If you need pickleball gear be sure to check out Another Vape Shop in Cadillac. It’s so much more than a vape shop and carries sports equipment for pickleball, skateboarding, disc golf and more.

Climb the Walls

Elev8 in Traverse City offers indoor rock climbing. No reservations required. Drop in any time of day, any day of the week. And, best of all, this is a great place for beginners as well. If you’ve never tried climbing now is the time to give it a go.

This Dining Guide region stretches from west of Panama City to just east of Carrabelle, along scenic US Highway 30 and beyond.

The diverse landscape and small town charms make it a joy to visit for all kinds of travelers.

Beachgoers, paddlers, and divers have long sung the praises of both the inland and coastal fun.

But if you’re in search of an authentic local experience, whether on a road trip or a day trip, you will find just what you’re looking for.

Farmers Markets

Charming downtowns and rural rolling fields are the setting for discovering the homegrown goodness of Northwest Florida.

Farmers markets offer easy access to locally grown and made specialties.

The Cypress Cattle Farmers Market features fresh produce from local, family-owned growers throughout the region and across the state. Beef and dairy products as well as the freshest seasonal vegetables can be found here. (Freeport, FL)

The Market at Historic St. Andrews began as a community activity in 2004 and has grown to be one of the best in the region. It has been recognized nationally by American Farmland Trust.

In Chipley, the Main Street Market and the seasonal Chipley Farmer’s Market offer fresh fruits and veggies from local farmers. Just out of town, K&L Farms is a great spot, as well, to choose some Washington County goodness.

The Peanut Shack is a favorite spot for travelers for so much more than its famed peanuts. It has gained a reputation for an impressive mix of other local produce, along with its fresh, roasted, or boiled peanuts. (Marianna, FL)

“Eat Fresh. But Local” is the theme at the Marianna City Farmers Market. This is where growers of local fruits and vegetables, honey, dairy products, and meats sell their goods. Jams and jellies, baked goods, crafts, and flowers can be found here, too. Open every Saturday.

Seafood Markets

Of course there is fresh seafood from the nearby Gulf of Mexico. Check out the following local favorites!

At Tarpon Dock Seafood Market, boats unload their fresh catch daily. Oysters and regional favorites are brought in fresh. (Panama City Beach, FL)

13 Mile Seafood Market in Apalachicola brings in seafood from the bay on its own boats, as well from area fishermen, every day. (Apalachicola, FL)

Lynn’s Quality Oysters & Raw Bar is known not only for its retail seafood, but as a favorite lunch spot as well. Of course, oysters are a favorite here. (Eastpoint, FL)

At Millender & Sons Seafood Co., generations have offered the freshest of seafood to retail and wholesale customers. (Carrabelle, FL)

Specialty Shops and Tastings

Southern Craft Creamery serves up the regionally popular ice cream from local Cindale Farms. (Marianna, FL)

Green Gate Olive Grove, the first olive grove in Florida, offers tastings of their house-made products. These include olive oils, infused vinegars, sauces, spices, and rubs. They also host and cater other special events. (Marianna, FL)

Tupelo honey is a true local product. Wewahitchka is the only place this famed sweetness is harvested.

Many local apiaries offer samples and sale of more than a dozen varieties of raw honey.

Don’t Forget the Beer!

Check out this impressive list of local breweries that dot the downtowns of Northwest Florida. These folks brew their own!

Southern Fields Brewing is a family owned brewery that is new to the Campbellton neighborhood. Enjoy their hand-crafted beers inside their 120 year old historic bank building. (Campbellton, FL)

Grayton Beer Brewpub is a fully operational brewery, restaurant, and bar located in the heart of Grayton Beach. (Santa Rosa Beach, FL)

Idyll Hounds Brewing Company boast a strong sense of history, tradition, and sustainability in their consistent quality brews. (Santa Rosa Beach, FL)

History Class Brewing Company celebrates the history of the south with local beer, southern bites, and local stories. (Panama City, FL)

Salty Oak Brewing Company brews their craft beer locally and offer specials and events every week. (Panama City, FL)

Oyster City Brewery claims the total of best easy-drinking beer in Apalachicola.(Apalachicola, FL)

East Point Beer Company offers unique brews paired with breathtaking views of the bay. They are also pet-friendly! (Eastpoint, FL)

So Much More!

There are family farm tours across the region, where sustainable practices and the fruits of the harvest are shared. And, of course, local museums tell the stories of history, commerce, and culture.

Additionally, downtowns are bright with local works of art, from unique murals to original works.

You’ll find shops along the streets of towns like Port St. Joe, Apalachicola, and Historic St. Andrews.

There is so much to savor across Northwest Florida, filled with thriving communities and a wealth of local fare. It offers visitors a getaway that will feed the soul and the body!

The online resource at ExploreNWFlorida.com highlights the unique destinations of Northwest Florida and additional activities and attractions.

On the road, be sure to stop at any of the area visitor centers for travel advice and a dose of small town Southern hospitality.

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