7 Destinations for a Skillcation

Travelers increasingly want meaningful experiences while on vacation. Learn something new on a skills-forward trip at one of these destinations around the United States.

© Bardstown Bourbon Company

All Things Bourbon

Head to Bardstown, Kentucky, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World. Bardstown Bourbon Company hosts a cocktail class where guests learn how to craft classic bourbon drinks. Heaven Hill Distillery offers immersive exhibits and guided tastings.

Avalanche Training

Estes Park, Colorado, offers avalanche safety lessons at Colorado Mountain School. These multiday training sessions combine classroom and field instruction.

© Hunters Honey Farm

Beekeeping

Hunter’s Honey Farm in Martinsville, Indiana, hosts workshops for aspiring beekeepers, detailing the intricacies of a working beehive.

Cowboy Class

Embark on a hands-on ranching experience at Our Heritage Ranch in Crawford, Nebraska. Guests learn the fundamentals of working on a ranch, from grooming horses to prairie ecology.

© Discover South Carolina

Crabbing in the Carolinas

Take part in a hands-on crabbing lesson in Charleston, South Carolina. Casual Crabbing with Tia offers step-by-step instructions for beginners on crabbing basics, utilizing Gullah Geechee heritage techniques.

Pitmaster Workshop

Enroll in BrisketU in Houston, Texas, for a three-hour workshop on what goes into cooking the best brisket. Sessions run at partner breweries and offer participants step-by-step instruction.

© Courtesy of Visit Florida Keys and Key West

Scuba Diving

For travelers looking to learn scuba diving, head to the Florida Keys, home to the only living coral reef barrier in the United States. Popular dive shops and schools include Looe Key Reef Resort & Dive Center, Islamorada Dive Center and Captain Hook’s Marina and Dive Center.