Words That Play

Sunny days, blue skies and green grassy lawns begging to be lounged on are the palette for the quintessential summer picnic—add in the red rock vistas of Sedona and you’ve got a masterpiece in the making. Here are seven of Sedona’s best places to nosh in nature—from enclaves along rugged trails, lands preserved for historical and natural edification to traditional manicured public parks—they’re all so jaw-droppingly good, you might have to remind yourself to chew. Leave your coffee pot behind when you breakfast on Brins Mesa Trail, but bring plenty of water. Conveniently located on the edge of town, with goo d parking at the end of Park Ridge Drive, th is six-mile out and back trek trades the shade for vast vistas—including Coffee Pot Rock, Wilson Mountain, Chimney Rock and more. Go early during summer months and brunch at the flat-rock ledge near the end of the trail while taking in the rewarding view and appreciating the effort you made to get there (though moderately rated,...

Grab those little wooden mallets, because it’s time to chase down the delicate, sweet seafood flavor of the Chesapeake Bay blue crab, and in Kent County , Maryland the supply is plentiful, and the tradition of celebrating the season is lively. Callinectes sapidus or “beautiful, savory swimmers” have shades of blue mainly on their legs and claws, and some specimens, though rare, are entirely blue. No matter the amount of blue, these crabs harvested from the Chesapeake Bay promise a sweet, delicate meat that’s neither briny nor mealy. Blue crabs are smaller than Dungeness crabs, but when it comes to flavor, size doesn’t matter. Some of the sweetest meat comes from smaller crabs (more proof that good things come in small packages). You might work a bit more for those delicate morsels, but that’s part of the fun—an unhurried, communal meal that keeps us gathered at the table enjoying great food, good drink and memorable conversation. Crack. Shuck. Savor. The locals will t...

Founded in 1642, Kent County, Maryland is in itself a virtual museum of American history—from Native American and colonial settlements to the development of important ports and African American progress. Venture anywhere within this charming area and you’re surrounded with reminders of its historical, maritime, agricultural and civic significance, though you won’t want to miss these 10 richly diverse museums . 1. Home to the Historical Society of Kent County, the Bordley History Center in Chestertown holds a treasure trove of historical and genealogical archives. Their library and exhibits embody the area’s past through documents, photographs, artifacts and oral narratives. Stop by the first Friday evening of each month for History Happy Hour, when they pair wine and cheese with fascinating presentations of the past. Or, arrange a guided group walking tour to learn about significant historical sites. Other happenings they host include the Historic House Tour every October, whe...

Tying the knot in the near future? Make your nuptials an affair to remember with a themed or destination wedding in San Angelo, Texas . First, decide on your vibe—kicked-back and casual or sophisticated and elegant—because this is the heartbeat of your gathering. Whether its country, old West, vintage, sophisticated, bohemian, traditional or something else, your wedding bells will ring true with the extraordinary venues around San Angelo. Making History Established in 1867 to defend the frontier settlements of west Texas, Fort Concho National Historic Landmark , with its exposed stone walls and durable hardwood construction, exudes a commitment to protect and serve—what an appropriate place to vow the same to the one you love. With multiple indoor and outdoor spaces (accommodating overnight lodging for up to three couples and guest seating for anywhere from 50 to 600 people), it’s quite possible to host your entire event from rehearsal dinner, ceremony and reception to th...

Everyone deserves a vacation, including your pooch, and Kent County, Maryland, is the perfect place for your furry friend to wag its tail and enjoy the refreshing breeze of this waterside community. The area has plenty of pet-friendly lodging, restaurants, parks and stores for them to explore.   Not Your Average Dog House Whether it’s an entire home, guest cottage, private room in a stately manor, quaint motel or seaside campground, your pet will feel welcome in these lodging accommodations. In and around historic Chestertown . There’s room to roam at Brampton Bed & Breakfast Inn . Your canine companion will thrive in the 20 acres surrounding its two pet-friendly, deluxe cottages. Two resident cats enjoy watching the abundant bird and wildlife—as will you and your pooch—so please be sure your furry friend is friendly to felines. Enjoy a private room with amazing amenities, lush landscaped acreage, plus complimentary access to neighboring marinas at these ...