Magnificent Food Markets & Beverage Trails
An undoubtedly exciting part of any group adventure are the delicious dishes and thirst-quenching libations everyone gets to enjoy along the way. From the many magnificent public food halls and markets to the winding beverage trails dotting destinations around the country, come along as we take a sampling of what groups can really sip and sink their teeth into on the road.
MAGNIFICENT MARKETS
History truly calls Boston home. In between seeing all the memorable sights (and sites!), groups shouldn’t miss a visit to Faneuil Hall Marketplace and Quincy Market—a historic spot in its own right. As the largest and oldest food hall in the country that’s located right on the Freedom Trail, groups can indulge in a slice from Regina Pizzeria, the abundance of Asian fusion delights at Wagamama, some falafel and hummus at Steve’s Greek Cuisine, a classic lobster roll from Boston & Maine Fish Company, and more. Don’t forget about their group meal and snack voucher program, ideal for groups on the go who want to keep things simple and stay on budget.
Photo courtesy of pah.creative.
Be sure to stop in and be wowed with flavor at Reading Terminal Market, which has been feeding Philadelphia officially since 1893. The legendary pastrami from Hershel’s East Side Deli is a can’t-miss, and Miller’s Twist is known for their buttery Amish-style pretzels. The cheeseboat (khachapuri) and other Georgian-inspired dishes from Saami Somi are on another level, while the cannolis from Termini Brothers Bakery have a cult following. Of course, you can’t go to Philly without throwing back a cheesesteak, so check out options like By George, Uncle Gus’ Steaks, or Molly Malloy’s.
Photo courtesy of Gab Bonghi.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert are all easily found inside the Grand Rapids Downtown Market in West Michigan’s largest city. Her Daily Bread offers intricately decorated sugar cookies (and the opportunity for groups to decorate their own at the stall’s walk-in DIY cookie bar), while Field & Fire offers up their artisan wood-fired bread, pastries, and more. The authentic Mexican street food found at Tacos El Cuñado is a community favorite, and the vegan gelato and scratch-made ice cream found at Love’s Ice Cream & Chocolate also deliver on the promise of a satisfied appetite.
Photo courtesy of Grand Rapids Downtown Market.
In the vibrant city of Columbus, Ohio, groups will find North Market Downtown—a community staple that’s consistently ranked as one of the top public markets in the country. One of two market locations (the other being North Market Bridge Park), it’s here groups can choose from more than 30 independently owned small businesses. Whether it’s the traditional-meets-fast-casual Somali options (especially the Mango Chicken) from Hoyo’s Kitchen, some scoops from Columbus’ own Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, the homestyle pierogies from Hubert’s Polish Kitchen, or one of the market’s many other options, groups truly can’t go wrong.
A BEVVY OF BEVERAGE TRAILS
For sips that score big with groups, you can’t forget the iconic Kentucky Bourbon Trail®, home to dozens of distilleries around the state. Opt for the captivating spirits and notable architecture of Castle & Key Distillery, the historic yet still innovative spirits of Woodford Reserve Distillery, the museum and Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience® at Heaven Hill Distillery, or one of the many other choices that await. Tours, tastings, and experiences abound, and can elevate the experience even further. Just remember to book them well in advance, as many usually sell out quickly.
Photo courtesy of Kentucky Tourism.
New York’s Finger Lakes Wine Country—which spans five counties, three wine trails, and 3,065 square miles—is a true gem worth exploring. Choose from the more than two dozen award-winning wineries along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail, the award-winning options found on the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail (the first-organized and longest-running wine trail in America), or the six family-owned wineries on the Keuka Lake Wine Trail. All options offer exciting wine and food pairing events, beautiful lake views, and unforgettable glasses of vino, of course.
Photo courtesy of Brave World Media.
For those seeking craft beer to quench their thirst, the Bend Ale Trail in Oregon is a winner. Launched in 2010 and known as the first beer trail in the West, the trail is home to over 30 breweries and tasting rooms, so groups have plenty to choose from. Crux Fermentation Project offers great mountain views and options like their “Bochi Bochi” Japanese-Style Rice Lager, while Silver Moon Brewing boasts mainstays like their “Mango Daze” Mango Pale Ale and “Simon Says” Hazy IPA. Be sure to also check out the guided brewery tour and popular rooftop at the Bend location of 10 Barrel Brewing Co.
If cider is more your vibe, the Virginia Cider Trail has plenty of options to choose from. Apples from orchards found in areas like the Shenandoah Valley and rural plains of Central Virginia offer groups a taste of something truly special! Venture to the family-run Albemarle CiderWorks to try one of their 20 varieties; sample the complex and highly intentional ciders offered by Troddenvale at Oakley Farm; enjoy the setting of a century-old stone church with your glass at Potter’s Craft Cider; and more. Cideries can be found in both rural and urban environments throughout the Commonwealth, so fitting one into your itinerary is likely easier than you think.
Wherever your groups choose to sip and savor on their adventures, be sure to raise a glass and say “Cheers!”
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.
This article originally appeared in the Mar/Apr ’26 issue of Groups Today.
Main photo courtesy of Visit Bend.
