TheSpot

How many of us flip through travel magazines or pause online at a web page of France or Italy promoting a vineyard or exotic wine tour? How many of us stop in a state store and go for a bottle of California chardonnay on our way to a party? There have been some local wines produced in Pennsylvania that have been spotlighted in the past.

In the last few years, New Jersey wineries have become a one stop destination for wine and social gatherings. According to the NJ.com, New Jersey is the seventh largest wine producing state in the country. Furthermore, the climate is ideal for various varietals in winemaking.

After visiting several vineyards in South Jersey, there are three that we spotlighted. Cape May Winery, Autumn Lake Winery, and Renault Winery. Each was distinct in their own right. Even better, is that there are many to choose from no matter what the season.

Is there anything better than going to a vineyard by the beach? Cape May Winery is a pleasant locale with vineyards, outdoor dining, and informative classes just a few miles from the beach. The host of our wine class taught us various notes with taste and smell. He also showed us the differences between red and white. Cheese and fruit boards make the perfect complement to a day of tastings.

Autumn Lake Winery, located in Williamstown, is on a gorgeous plot of land that I highly recommend getting together with your besties for some Instagram worthy memories. Tables and firepits are available for reservation. The menu has good options for light fare but I would suggest ordering their delicious pizza. Local acoustic musicians certainly add to the ambience.

Third on our list is Renault Winery. Renault became the local winter favorite due to the Winter Wonderland theme they made popular. Horse and carriage rides, ice skating and their own resort offers a variety of activities. Our waiter was young and very knowledgeable about the history of the founder, Louis Renault. One of the more unique fun facts we learned is that Renault Winery is one of the few establishments in all of the United States that can call their sparkling wine champagne. A designation is only reserved for producers of grapes in Champagne, France. Today, the resort continues to expand and have bigger plans. Now that is something we can toast to! Until then Cheers, Salute, and Grub trinken!

Philly has always been one of the pivotal centers in the art world for many years. Of course the Museum of Art houses classic works of art and sculptures matching other world class cities. In recent years, the Barnes Foundation has become a focal point of attracting tourists to our city just to view the works of Matisse, Picasso, and Cezanne.

We came across two innovative and look to the future spaces for art. Wonderspaces bills itself as Extraordinary Art that is interactive and immersive. Museum of Illusions Philadelphia, takes a different spin, literally, on the definition of art.

Wonderspaces is a futuristic look on art exhibits. What context is futuristic? Upon entry, the first wall we came across is a chalk board. Pre-set sentences such as “Before I die, I would like to_____” inviting the attendee to write down in chalk their hopes and dreams. There is something warm and emotional in reading and writing those dreams. Beyond the wall are separate rooms or spaces. One room you can sit on a bench with virtual binoculars that takes you on a visual journey to outer space. Another room is a wall of blank notepads where you are invited to write down your favorite song and a special memory.

Museum of Illusions Philadelphia is a kaleidoscope of perceptions. The various exhibits and rooms are designed to challenge your perception vs. reality. Rooms such as the Anti Gravity Room, Rotated Room, and The Vortex Tunnel test your brain’s functions like never before. You may feel like you’re upside down or turning 360° while completely standing on a flat surface.

Two examples of innovative and exploratory spaces to stretch your mind, question your perceptions, and experience art in 2022 and beyond. The future of art is here and it’s happening in the City of Brotherly Love.

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The Future of Art: Wonderspaces