As fall begins to wind down, I’m finding myself seeking opportunities to squeeze in one last “outdoor experience” – like a visit to a local attraction, a bike ride through the countryside, or a picnic lunch with a special someone. Because the truth is, if you live in Pennsylvania, you know that once the cold weather arrives, it settles into every nook and cranny…and stays there for the next 4 months. On a recent excursion, I took the day to discover the treasures of downtown Selinsgrove and the Isle of Que, both of which provide lots of opportunities to get out there and explore…one…last…time…before Old Man Winter arrives.

I started with a visit to Patchwork Farm Alpacas, just outside of downtown Selinsgrove. This place is SUCH a hoot for kids, and kids-at-heart. It’s also a great year-round attraction because they offer the opportunity to feed and pet alpacas AND they have a farm store with all kinds of hats, mittens, scarves and sweaters made from alpaca fiber. And the prices are really, really, reasonable. Believe me, once you feel the softness of the material (and the warmth – it’s warmer than wool!), you’ll fall in love. Store hours are Monday and Friday 9 am-5 pm, other days 9 am-1 pm. They are closed Sundays.

After petting the super-soft and oh-so-cuddly alpacas, I suggest getting the bike off the roof rack (you remembered to pack your bike, I hope) and take a ride through downtown Selinsgrove, pedal over the bridge that crosses the Susquehanna River and explore Selinsgrove’s residential ISLAND — the Isle of Que. It’s a pedestrian- and bike-friendly area where you can bike without a lot of traffic and take in gorgeous views of the Susquehanna. If you like to kayak or canoe, this is also a great place to launch your boat.

After your bike ride, enjoy a picnic lunch (you brought one with you, right?) along the banks of the Susquehanna River. Or, head back downtown and enjoy a yummy sammie at Kinfolks, a microbrew from Selin’s Grove Brewing Company, or a steak or appetizer at BJ’s Steak and Ribs.

There are so many things to do in Selinsgrove — so I’d encourage you to make it a weekend! The brand new Selinsgrove Inn offers upscale accommodations and impeccable service in a cozy B&B-like setting. Each room has its own unique décor and each room is perfectly maintained.

While you’re in town, explore the stately campus of Susquehanna University and attend a concert or theatre performance at one of their many venues, head to nearby Shade Mountain Winery, or “tailor your image” at clothier J. Kleinbauer where they feature clothing from Burberry, Cole Haan, Eileen Fisher, and Cambio.

Before you go, check out the Susquehanna River Valley Visitors Bureau’s new “Every Town a Treasure” brochure for Selinsgrove. You’ll learn a little bit about Selinsgrove’s history and come to understand why it continues to be such a wonderful place to live, work, and visit.