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Diverse adventures abound for travelers of every interest, so prepare to experience the trip of a lifetime.

Hawaii's Big Island is brimming with adventure. Just steps from the shore, you'll discover ten of the world's 14 microclimates in a pristine environment encompassed by lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and clear waters. This expansive island is awe-inspiring in size alone; it's large enough to fit all of the other islands combined, providing ample space to spread out and savor every minute. The power of nature truly takes hold here, from snow-capped mountains to tropical forests and eye-catching volcanoes. Diverse adventures abound for travelers of every interest, so prepare to experience the trip of a lifetime.
<h2>1. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park</h2>
Two of the world's most active volcanoes are alive and well at this national park, protecting some of Earth's most unique geological and cultural landscapes. Stretching from sea level to an elevation of 13,6777 feet, you'll ascend into the heavens as you view Kīlauea and Mauna Loa up close and personal; you can even view eruptions as they happen! With over 123,000 acres to explore, there's ample space for hiking. On the slopes of Mauna Loa, the world's most massive shield volcano, you'll discover the pastoral beauty of Kahuku Unit, the previous home of one of Hawaii's biggest cattle ranches. The Thurston Lava Tube, a subterranean cave formed by a river of molten lava, is another don't-miss.

[caption id="attachment_51150" align="alignnone" width="2127"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51150" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-200026549-001.jpg" alt="Hawaii Volcanoes National Park" width="2127" height="1409" /> Art Wolfe / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Punaluʻu Beach</h2>
Black sand beaches are truly eye-catching, and Punaluʻu is one of the most famous on Earth. The black sands were created from lava flowing toward the ocean, a direct result of activity from Kilauea and Mauna Loa volcanoes. You can often catch views of endangered Hawksbill and green turtles crawling directly across the sand, and swimming and snorkeling opportunities are plentiful.

[caption id="attachment_51151" align="alignnone" width="2227"]<img class="wp-image-51151 size-full" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-833697104.jpg" alt="Punaluʻu Beach" width="2227" height="1347" /> Philippe FLEURY / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve &amp; Garden</h2>
Discover bubbling streams and waterfalls flowing into the ocean at this lush tropical paradise. This 20-acre living classroom is home to over 2,000 species that represent over 125 families and 750 genera, giving you personal access to plants, animals, and wildlife that you'd never come into contact with otherwise. Panoramic nature trails wind throughout the valley, so you can fully immerse yourself into the rainforest setting at the edge of the Pacific Coast.

[caption id="attachment_51152" align="alignnone" width="2000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51152" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/shutterstock_2097872779-1.jpg" alt="Beautiful pond in Hawai'i Tropical Bioreserve and Garden" width="2000" height="1095" /> Faina Gurevich / Shutterstock[/caption]


<h2>4. Swim with dolphins</h2>
Meet marine species up close by hitting the seas with spinner dolphins. As social mammals that bond and communicate constantly, you'll be just another part of the crew. They won't just swim alongside you but make you feel like you're a part of the family. By swimming with dolphins in their natural environment, you'll learn to appreciate their intelligence and abilities in an entirely new way. Dolphins have historically looked forward to coming into contact with humans, allowing you to get close and personal. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is something to finally check off your bucket list.

[caption id="attachment_51153" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51153" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-157502358.jpg" alt="Dolphin kissing woman's cheek" width="2121" height="1414" /> avid_creative / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Akaka Falls State Park</h2>
Get a true taste of the tropical rainforest at this enticing state park, where you'll encounter two cascading waterfalls in one short trip. The hike to the namesake Akaka Falls is just 0.4 miles, but you'll be immersed in the lush forest every step of the way. Discover bamboo groves, verdant ferns, and bamboo groves along the path, or take a peek at the wildlife once you hit the water; you might just catch globefish and shrimp swimming upstream or suctioning their way up the rocks behind them. Akaka Falls plummets an astonishing 442 feet into the gorge below, while Kahuna Halls cascades 100 feet into the waters below.

[caption id="attachment_51154" align="alignnone" width="2000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51154" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/shutterstock_1938245281-1.jpg" alt="People walking leading to Akaka Falls, Hawaii" width="2000" height="1333" /> Birdiegal / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Snorkel with manta rays</h2>
Experience the seas in an entirely new way during a nighttime swim with manta rays. This after-dark excursion results in adventurous nights out on the water. You'll embark in snorkeling boats that place lighted flotation devices into the water, helping bring these late-night dwellers more toward the surface. Explore the waters as you watch these gentle creatures swim around and underneath you. Seeing and interacting with the rays in person is an elevating experience that everyone should sample at least once.

[caption id="attachment_51155" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51155" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-523356162.jpg" alt="Snorkeler photographing a manta ray" width="2121" height="1414" /> Bernard Radvaner / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. South Point Cliff Jump</h2>
Add an adrenaline rush to the itinerary with a jump off of famous South Point. An unmistakable spot, you'll notice ladders set against the ocean cliffs. Jumping into the sea from here is a 40-foot drop, so it's not for the faint of heart, but the waters below are only around 20 feet deep with no obstructions or rocks around the ladders, making it one of the safest, most populous areas to try diving. Many rocks are easily climbable, and there's a picturesque cave you can swim directly up to. If jumping's not your thing, watch others experiment as you explore the crystal clear waters; the area is also popular for swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking.

[caption id="attachment_51156" align="alignnone" width="2000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51156" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/shutterstock_1399834160-1.jpg" alt="People gather on the cliff of South Point, Hawaii" width="2000" height="1332" /> Ty King / Shutterstock[/caption]


<h2>8. Stargazing at MaunaKea Summit</h2>
Get a personal lesson in stargazing from an expert with a summit and stargazing tour. Tours last an average of eight hours, so this can easily become an all-day affair. Seven tour operators bring travelers up to the summit, so you have your choice of adventures. Along the way, you'll learn little-known facts about the history and cultural importance of the mountain, the stars, and the science of stargazing itself. You'll view the stars from some of the world's best telescopes, and tours supply parkas and gloves to keep you warm throughout the trip. Some even include dinner! The on-site visitor center features educational materials and videos on astronomy paired with a gift shop selling souvenirs, snacks, and hot beverages.

[caption id="attachment_51159" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51159" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-638372958.jpg" alt="Mauna Kea Milky Way Night Sky Mountain Silhouette Kona Hawaii" width="2119" height="1414" /> Lorraine Boogich / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. ATV tours</h2>
Explore the island in a riveting way with ATV tours that guide you past its most mesmerizing attractions. On an ATV, wild forests and cliffs on the coast become much more accessible, so you can explore many areas that would be inaccessible otherwise. Tours range in length and duration, but the majority take you on 10+ mile drives to private lands and scenic hotspots.

[caption id="attachment_51157" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51157" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-148693717.jpg" alt="Tourists on quad bikes at Kipu Ranch" width="2121" height="1414" /> Matthew Micah Wright / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Farm tours</h2>
Connect with the land in an innovative new way that gives you unparalleled access to local honey, chocolate, coffee, macadamia nuts, tea, and much more. You'll learn the history and process behind their cultivation and production, and, best of all, you'll get a solid sample along the way. Hawaii is, in fact, the only state that can produce chocolate with 100% locally sourced ingredients, making it one of the state's biggest exports.

[caption id="attachment_51160" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51160" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-536614761.jpg" alt="Cacao Plants with Chocolate Fruit Pod on Tree" width="2121" height="1414" /> YinYang / Getty Images[/caption]

Hawaii

Unwind Around the Big Island's Top Attractions

Located less than an hour outside Las Vegas, this stunning spot makes for a don’t&#x2d;miss day trip.

The Valley of Fire, with eye-catching orange and red sandstone formations, it's easy to see where this scenic valley its name. A panoramic paradise in the middle of the Mojave, you'll spot petrified trees and petroglyphs dating back over 3,000 years. Geographic formations encompass over 40,000 acres, so there's ample space for adventure. With countless hiking trails, you can successfully explore the area on foot, capturing dynamic vistas every step of the way. Located less than an hour outside Las Vegas, this stunning spot makes for a don't-miss day trip.
<h2>1. Fire Wave Trail</h2>
An excellent launching point for your adventure, Fire Wave Trail is just 1.5 miles long, making it accessible for hikers of every experience level. It's one of the park's most iconic attractions, so go early to avoid the crowds. As you hike, you'll encounter riveting rock formations that lead from a sandy path toward stacked slick rock, finally coming upon the renowned Wave, which has the appearance of swirled ice cream slated between red and white stone. Waves of ancient sand formed this natural beauty, so you're fully immersed in thousands of years of history.

[caption id="attachment_50987" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50987" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-1056349928.jpg" alt="A man's hand holding a woman's hand leading to the Fire Wave Trail in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> bennymarty / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. White Domes Trail</h2>
This easy one-mile trail provides panoramic views of the park's finest. While there's a steep descent at the start (and ascent to finish), you'll traverse a loop that reveals a bit of everything. Discover life-size boulders, slot canyons, caves, and ever-changing rock formations along the way; all of these are ideal for further photo-taking and adventuring. Parts of the movie set from 1966's <em>The Professionals</em> remain, so you can discover a piece of film history as you trek.

[caption id="attachment_50989" align="alignnone" width="2000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50989" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/shutterstock_1473111938-1.jpg" alt="White domes slot canyon in Nevada, USA" width="2000" height="1333" /> Mirigrina / Shutterstock[/caption]


<h2>3. Atlatl Rock</h2>
This imposing rock formation features the park's most impressive petroglyphs, carved carefully into the stone thousands of years ago. Since these are marked nearly 50 feet from the ground, a staircase leads you directly to them for in-depth analysis and up-close photos. Prehistoric civilizations have called the area home since 300 BCE, including the Anasazi Pueblo and Basket Maker people. You'll see etchings demonstrating daily activities such as hunting, gathering, and cultivation, while others hold vital spiritual significance. "Atlatl" itself stems from the name of an ancient spear-throwing device.

[caption id="attachment_50981" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50981" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-1351829943.jpg" alt="Historic petroglyphs from native Americans on Atlatl Rock in Nevada, USA" width="2119" height="1415" /> imagoDens / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Mouse's Tank</h2>
This former hideout holds a whole lot of history. In the 1890s, Little Mouse was a Southern Paiute rebel who hid out in the area after being falsely accused of murdering two prospectors. He was fired from his post as a ferryman on the Colorado River for drunkness, taking refuge in the valley's sandstone mountains and stealing food and weapons from local prospectors for survival. Those neighbors weren't too happy with this arrangement, blaming him for the murders, tracking him down, and killing him on the spot. While the outcropping is a natural water cistern where water collects post-rainfall, you can spot plentiful pictographs here too.

[caption id="attachment_50982" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50982" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-643893232.jpg" alt="Mouse's Tank in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> Peter Unger / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Beehives</h2>
One of the park's most distinct features, these creatively-shaped rock formations look like massive beehives, with visitors climbing up, down, and all over the rocks. These formations took their unique shape due to geologic cross-bedding over thousands of years. Look closely at the grooved lines branching out in different directions; each passing layer results from silt deposited at different time periods. The angle, in turn, represents the direction the wind or water was moving during deposition.

[caption id="attachment_50979" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50979" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-917664112.jpg" alt="Beehive rock formation in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> Karel Stipek / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Elephant Rock</h2>
This top attraction is exactly what its name implies: a sandstone formation shaped like an elephant. A 10-minute trail leads directly there, so you can score excellent photos from every angle. Foot traffic is high in the area, which is a favorite among climbers. A can't-miss stop; you have to see it to believe it.

[caption id="attachment_50983" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50983" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-717166737.jpg" alt="Tourist posing at the Elephant Rock in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> Westend61 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Rainbow Vista</h2>
Gaze over 150 million years back to an era when dinosaurs roamed the earth. This colorful maze of untouched wilderness highlights canyons, ridges, and valleys that remain undisturbed by humans, and you'll get a birds-eye view from the Fire Canyon Overlook. Every color of stone is showcased here, and the view alone is a highlight of every visit to the valley.

[caption id="attachment_50978" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50978" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-1321937398.jpg" alt="Rainbow Vista in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> TD Dolci / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Mouse's Tank Road</h2>
An Instagram favorite, this scenic route stretches from the Visitor Center all the way to the White Domes, revealing the valley's sandstone beauty along the way. Take this winding, 5.7-mile path past vibrant rocks, narrow canyons, and picturesque viewpoints. A journey that's as epic as the destination, you'll encounter countless postcard-worthy views.

[caption id="attachment_50977" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50977" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-872704454.jpg" alt="Mouse's Tank Road in Nevada, USA" width="2119" height="1415" /> Oralleff / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Pink Canyon</h2>
A lesser-known attraction, this unmarked canyon packs a punch. It's small, narrow, and less packed than other valley landmarks, making it a go-to for climbers and adventurers. Serene geologic displays boast bold shades of pink in every direction, but you'll also spot white, yellow, and orange rocks for a pastel palette of radiating hues. The hike there is short and simple, but it's an enticing adventure that's not to miss.

[caption id="attachment_50985" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50985" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-1270134453.jpg" alt="Pink Canyon in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> Sumiko Scott / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Seven Sisters</h2>
After relentless erosion stripped away surrounding sandstone deposits, this group of seven gargantuan boulders is all that remains, standing alone in the middle of the desert. As erosion continues through time, experts predict that even these towering structures will wear down and disappear hundreds of years from now. Climbers are welcome to explore every part of the structures, and picnickers can use the spot for a meal stop along their route.

[caption id="attachment_50986" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50986" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-1314632851.jpg" alt="Seven sisters in Nevada, USA" width="2121" height="1414" /> gchapel / Getty Images[/caption]

Nevada

Visit the Valley of Fire's Most Exquisite Sites

Nestled between the Green Mountains and the Worcester Range, Stowe, Vermont is a quaint community brimming with natural beauty. Don't skip this trip.

Nestled between the Green Mountains and the Worcester Range, Stowe, Vermont is a quaint community brimming with natural beauty. You'll discover once-in-a-lifetime moments wherever you stroll in Stowe, whether you're snapping photos of snow-capped peaks, traversing centuries-old bridges, or zooming across the landscape on carriage rides that hark back to a bygone era. From verdant forest to the Northeast’s premier ski culture, this charming town is an undisputed gem that everyone should explore at least once.
<h2>1. Mount Mansfield</h2>
Reaching an altitude of 4,393 feet, Mount Mansfield is the highest mountain in Vermont and an absolute must-see for hikers and skiers. The eastern section is reserved for the latter; you’ll discover the legendary Stowe Mountain Resort, where scenic views can be captured from the lift, along with top-notch shopping, dining, and ski lessons.

Hikers will love the Long Trail, which crosses the entire main ridgeline.

[caption id="attachment_50825" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/185088134.jpg" alt="Mount Mansfield" width="1200" height="800" /> capecodphoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Spruce Peak Village</h2>
Immerse yourself in small-town Vermont's finest at this picturesque village nestled midway up Mount Mansfield. You'll discover ice skating, skiing, rock climbing, and a bevy of activities that make this quaint village a world unto itself.

Head to the WhistlePig Pavilion for farm-to-table meats, produce, and rye whiskey from the state's premier craft distillery. At Miso Toh Kome, you can sample grab-n-go Japanese goodies between laps around the rink. The 420-seat Spruce Peak Art Center features world-renowned performances throughout the year, from live music to comedy, dance, and film premieres.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CX3yG2LrtSH/" alt="Spruce Peak Village" caption="sprucepeak" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/sprucepeak/" /]


<h2>3. Stowe Recreation Path</h2>
Capture striking views of Stowe from this 5.5-mile one-way path. Since it's flat for most of the journey, it's an ideal trek for anyone, regardless of experience or fitness level, and it's bike-friendly, too.

Pass by a charming stone bridge, take a dive in the swimming holes, or pack a picnic and stop for a bite when you spot the shaded benches and tables.

[caption id="attachment_51056" align="alignnone" width="2000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51056" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-1288844452-1.jpg" alt="Stowe Recreation Park" width="2000" height="1333" /> Julie Deshaies / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Cady Hill Forest</h2>
Traverse eleven miles of trails that journey directly uphill, or just relax and savor the beauty of nature. You'll spot white pine, sugar maple, red maple, and hemlock trees soaring hundreds of feet tall, and with over 258 acres to explore, there's a lot to see. Cleared in the 1700s for farmland, this forest has grown back heartier than ever, and it's a top attraction for hikers and bikers alike.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CRkTWZ0jM0V/" alt="Biker view of Cady Hill Forest" caption="cjskilee" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/cjskilee/" /]


<h2>5. Laughing Moon Chocolates</h2>
Regarded as the top sweets shop in town, this premier chocolatier specializes in everything from chocolate-covered caramel apples to luxurious truffles. You'll even find sugar-free and vegan varieties.

Shopping isn't the only must-do here, however. Check out the daily chocolate dipping demonstrations, or attend a private chocolate-making workshop to learn how to make your own delectable bites.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CCLlKFpBoy9/" alt="Truffles" caption="laughingmoonvt" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/laughingmoonvt/" /]


<h2>6. Vermont Ski and Snowboarding Museum</h2>
Take a break from the slopes and head to this local museum that reveals the town's vibrant ski and snowboarding culture. You'll discover its history and popularity through time, taking valuable tidbits with you for the rest of the trip.

View exhibits on ski fashion, technology, and the art and athleticism behind Noric skiing. The museum also houses a gift shop, archival collections, and a hall of fame honoring Vermont's skiing pioneers through the decades.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/_7o7NlTFKy/" alt="Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum" caption="mrs_emmaann" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/mrs_emmaann/" /]


<h2>7. Bingham Falls</h2>
While the climb to the falls is steep, it's well worth the effort. Part of Mansfield State Park, this 40-foot waterfall cascades into natural pools that practically beg you to take a dip. A don't-miss for swimmers, these deep indigo waters are ideal for aquatic activity in summer, while enthralling views of snow and ice covering the falls are a don't-miss come winter.

You'll likely come across an array of wildlife too, including bears, deer, and foxes.

[caption id="attachment_51058" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-51058" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2022/01/GettyImages-587512071.jpg" alt="Bingham Falls" width="2121" height="1414" /> Enzo Figueres / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Stowe Cider</h2>
Producing nearly 1,000 gallons of cider per month, this production facility and tasting room is the locals' top source for fresh, flavorful beverages. While their ciders are sold throughout the state, there's no place like the source for a thirst-quenching delight.

Try Strawberry Fields for a fruity fiesta of berries and lime, or opt for the Safety Meeting, a uniquely-named blend of tropical and citrus fruits. Rotating seasonal choices and limited editions open up a world of flavor that's pleasing for any palette. Ready for a night out? Head over for live music and open mic nights throughout the week.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CYCgf0dt8oY/" alt="Stowe Cider sign" caption="stowecider" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/stowecider/" /]


<h2>9. Stowe Golf Park</h2>
Gather the whole crew for a day on the links at this one-of-a-kind golf course. Designed to be played just like a regular golf course, it's a tiny version of your favorite sport. Lush landscaping features the same hazards, obstacles, and rough traps you'd find on a full-length range, plus plenty of shade trees and benches to relax along the way.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CGVRIYkB9sx/" alt="Stowe Golf Park" caption="stowegolfpark" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/stowegolfpark/" /]


<h2>10. Gentle Giants Carriage Rides</h2>
History comes to life in private carriages that carry up to 12 people. Sit back and enjoy the journey as you traverse the striking Stowe landscape, passing by the town's most scenic attractions.

Pulled by a team of majestic Belgian and Percheron horses, whether you're craving a romantic ride as a couple, a solo adventure, or fun for the whole family, you can leave the top up or down as you sail past panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CXwyc-WLPZJ/" alt="Horse carriage" caption="lil_duck" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/lil_duck/" /]

Vermont

Stowe

Don't Miss These Must-Sees in Stowe, Vermont

There's plenty of relaxation and downtime to be found amongst the peaks and pines that make Colorado Springs such a stunning place.

High in the Rockies, Colorado Springs is truly a choose-your-own-adventure vacation. What you'll find depends entirely on which season you visit this rugged, awe-inspiring town. No matter when you go, one thing's for sure: sporting excellence lives here in the home of the Olympic &amp; Paralympic Training Center. But there's plenty of relaxation and downtime to be found amongst the peaks and pines that make Colorado Springs such a stunning place.
<h2>1. Get to know the geography</h2>
Colorado's got some of the nation's most loved vacation spots, like Vail and Aspen, but they're just a tiny part of what makes the region so incomparable. For a central travel experience, Colorado Springs is where you want to be; it's just over an hour's drive from Denver and about 40 minutes north of picturesque Pueblo.

Colorado Springs is growing but still feels like a smaller city, thanks to the natural setting. Depending on the direction you head, the surrounding landscapes vary: drive east for the high plains, head south for the high deserts, or west for some of the world's most celebrated mountain vistas.

[caption id="attachment_50278" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50278" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-1143037806.jpg" alt="Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA downtown skyline and mountains at dusk." width="2121" height="1414" /> Sean Pavone / Getty Images[/caption]

Colorado Springs has a "semi-arid Steppe climate," getting under 20 inches of rain a year and a whole lot of sunshine — about 243 days annually. Snow is often short-lived. The unique geography and dependable weather here are why folks love to play outside, whether they're a local, an Olympian in training, or just a visitor escaping the grind for a few days. You might want to push yourself to try all the adventures, but go easy: Colorado Springs has an elevation of 6,035.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CS70z0mN9i9/" alt="Sunflowers in Colorado Springs" caption="peaceloveandariel" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/visitcos/" /]

Visitors should also beware of lightning. A geographical feature called the Palmer Divide is responsible for the incredible amount of blinding flashes seen from June to August in El Paso County. It's among the most active lightning regions in the United States, and lightning deaths per capita are consistently high. In fact, the monsoon-related lightning season is so legendary that Nikola Tesla built his largest Tesla Coil ever in Colorado Springs to capitalize on the thin, highly conductive Rocky Mountain air. Today, the Pioneer Museum houses the few materials that remain of Tesla's time here.

[caption id="attachment_50279" align="alignnone" width="2233"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50279" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-591402821.jpg" alt="Forked cloud-to-air lightning shoots out the side of a supercell thunderstorm. " width="2233" height="1343" /> Cultura Exclusive/Jason Persoff Stormdoctor / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Go for gold: Olympic City, USA</h2>
Over 10,000 athletes per year train in and around Colorado Springs. Now, there's another place to get the buzz of Olympic gold and glory, thanks to the new U.S. Olympic &amp; Paralympic Museum. It celebrates the entire Olympic training experience and gives visitors a little taste of what "reaching for gold" really means.

[caption id="attachment_50281" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50281" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-1227436062.jpg" alt="Paralympian and former U.S. Army Officer Melissa Stockwell works on strength during a training session on May 27, 2020 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Athletes across the globe are now training in isolation under strict policies in place due to the Covid-19 pandemic. " width="1024" height="683" /> Matthew Stockman / Getty Images[/caption]

Interactive training scenarios for several sports — including sled hockey, the 30-meter dash, and archery — put you right into an athlete's experience. The whole grounds are accessible and inclusive, and exhibits are designed with state-of-the-art technologies to make this a museum visit unlike any other. Architecture lovers should enjoy it, too. The museum was one of only four American buildings to make Architectural Digest's list of 2020's most-anticipated builds. It's an inspiring and beautiful space worthy of a few dedicated hours.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTfpdColBgk/" alt="View of the architecture at the U.S. Olympic &amp; Paralympic Museum" caption="park.union" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/park.union/" /]

For the original Olympian experience, take an eight-minute drive east of the museum to the Colorado Springs Olympic &amp; Paralympic Training Center itself. It's at this 37-acre state-of-the-art facility that America's premier athletes learn to give their very best. A variety of tour options are available, including private athlete-guided visits for groups of 10 or more.

Acclimated to the altitude already? To test your inner Olympian, put on some sneakers and tackle the daunting Manitou Incline. It's only a mile, which makes it sound doable, but it's a vertical climb of 2,000 feet with 2,768 steps — so steep that descending the stairs is "strongly discouraged; instead, it's a four-mile hike back down.

[caption id="attachment_50307" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50307" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/shutterstock_1210699279.jpg" alt="Extreme nature trail with steep mountain incline for advance hikers." width="1000" height="667" /> Arina P Habich / Shutterstock.com[/caption]


<h2>3. Play in the Garden of the Gods</h2>
Much friendlier to hikers of all abilities is the most popular tourist destination in Colorado Springs, the Garden of the Gods. The rocky terrain has wowed people long before the Perkins family bequeathed 480 acres of parkland to the city in 1909. Just past Old Colorado City, on the outskirts of town, the famed park is now nearly 1,400 acres with over 15 miles of hiking trails, countless rock-climbing opportunities, mountain biking, horseback riding, and more.

[caption id="attachment_50308" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50308" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-590362813.jpg" alt="Rear View Of People Walking On Footpath By Rock Formation And Plants Against Sky At Colorado Springs" width="2119" height="1415" /> Dave Faulkner / EyeEm / Getty Images[/caption]

There are multiple entry points, but the Visitor &amp; Nature Center off N. 30th Street is recommended for first-timers. Here, you'll learn about the unique geography forming this red rock landscape. From there, choose your destination. Will it be the infamous Balanced Rock? Perhaps the Kissing Camels or Siamese Twins? If you want Barkley to stretch his legs, there's an off-leash dog park too, but leashes are required elsewhere in the park.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CLE5NkbFo8l/" alt="New interpretive panels at Garden of the Gods" caption="gardenofthegodspark" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/gardenofthegodspark/" /]

While visitor ratings put all the various attractions in the must-see category, it's the Central Gardens that remain most popular. They are walkable from the Visitor's Center, but there are plenty of other options for the more adventurous or those with mobility issues. Choose from Segways and Jeep-guided tours to e-bike rentals or tours. However you go, you'll soon find out why over 6 million people visit this park annually.

[caption id="attachment_50309" align="alignnone" width="2125"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50309" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-1290192811.jpg" alt="Road through the Garden of the Gods-Colorado Springs, ,Colorado" width="2125" height="1411" /> William Reagan / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. The Royal Gorge Canyon and Bridge</h2>
This beloved Cañon City landmark isn't just a bridge; it's an experience. The Royal Gorge is the 10-mile canyon carved by the Arkansas River. Its nickname is Arkansas Grand Canyon, thanks to daunting cliffs as high as 1,200 feet over the river.

[caption id="attachment_50586" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50586" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-185583375.jpg" alt="Image of the bridge made from the bottom of the canyon" width="2121" height="1414" /> m-kojot / Getty Images[/caption]

The bridge is among the highest over-water suspension bridges anywhere in the world — 1,053 feet high — but there's more to do than test your fear of heights. Summer is whitewater rafting time, with world-renowned class-IV rapids in the Gorge, but hiking draws visitors from around the globe, too. Mountain bikers love the 15 miles-plus of single-track trails, like the Canyon Rim path.

[caption id="attachment_50587" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50587" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/shutterstock_718861201.jpg" alt="Royal Gorge, Colorado, tourists cross the royal gorge bridge in Colorado." width="1000" height="666" /> Gary C. Tognoni / Shutterstock.com[/caption]

If you're looking to do something special, consider the Royal Gorge Route Railroad, a stunning 24-mile journey in a dining train. Special occasion tours include murder mysteries, the Santa Express, Oktoberfest, and even Mother's Day brunches. The train runs March through December annually, with a variety of experiences for various budgets.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVimVcFle6R/" alt="Royal Gorge Route Railroad" caption="danielscottphoto" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/royalgorgerouterr/" /]

The Royal Gorge Canyon is just over an hour's drive southwest of Colorado Springs.


<h2>5. Get your Rocky Mountain high</h2>
No visit to Colorado Springs is complete without a trip to Pike's Peak. This famous mountain has an incredible 19-mile highway to the summit, which rises a whopping 14,115 feet above sea level. The toll highway is worth the cost of admission and is open year-round, but it's known to close for nasty weather or heavy snow, so monitor conditions.

[caption id="attachment_49876" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49876" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-682148104.jpg" alt="Street winding down from Pikes Peak summit, Colorado" width="2121" height="1414" /> emson / Getty Images[/caption]

This is serious altitude. Take things slow and watch for signs that thin air is taking a toll, such as headaches. If you're visiting Colorado Springs for just a few days, leave high-altitude stuff like Pike's Peak for the end of your visit, when you're better acclimated. And don't forget backcountry safety, like being prepared for high-altitude colder temperatures or having at least half a tank of gas.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50588" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/shutterstock_4895083.jpg" alt="Cog Railroad on Pike's Peak, Colorado" width="1000" height="667" />

Don't deny yourself a Summit House donut. High-altitude baking requires special skills and magical alchemy, resulting in a 14,000-foot donut that'll take your breath away. Low-altitude donuts will never be the same.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CHfcxD1LKKR/" alt="Summit House donut" caption="cudenverintladmissions" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/cudenverintladmissions/" /]


<h2>6. Enjoy a hot-air balloon ride</h2>
Get the bird's-eye view of this stunning landscape from the basket of a hot air balloon. For over 45 years, the September Labor Day Lift-Off hot air balloon festival has filled the sky with dozens of balloons. In 2021, nearly 80 balloons took to the skies for a magical display delighting around 185,000 spectators.

[caption id="attachment_50590" align="alignnone" width="3509"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50590" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-95839323.jpg" alt="Colorful hot air balloons glide over Prospect Lake in Colorado Springs, CO, at the Colorado Balloon Classic; Cheyenne Mountain is in the background." width="3509" height="2349" /> cris stoddard / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Explore WWII aviation</h2>
On the northwest corner of Colorado Springs Airport sits the National Museum of World War II Aviation. Here, you can see 28 fully restored aircraft up close, plus other interesting vehicles used by the Allies and some ongoing restoration projects. The collection also includes over 4,000 artifacts and documents from the war.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVRTi2XLmRl/" alt="National Museum of World War II Aviation" caption="worldwariiaviation" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/worldwariiaviation/" /]

Parking is free, and you'll save some money if you pre-pay for your visit online. Tack on $5 extra a person, and you can get the guided tour.

[caption id="attachment_50591" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50591" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/shutterstock_1434130214.jpg" alt="Lockheed P-38 Lightning side view of open engine and propeller" width="1000" height="665" /> Lost_in_the_Midwest / Shutterstock.com[/caption]


<h2>8. Wind down in the Old Town</h2>
Take a step into a simpler time with rustic brick buildings and tree-lined streets. The Old Colorado City Historic District is a small neighborhood with shops and restaurants, fit for spending a morning or afternoon. Browse a bit, have a bite, and then take a drive down the road to the Garden of the Gods.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQ_W-ftjpHn/" alt="Burger from Front Range Barbeque" caption="oldcoloradocity" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/oldcoloradocity/" /]

If you're looking for a keepsake, the Colorado Creative Co-op is a collective of regional artists, offering varied creations from glassware to wood carving and oil paintings. For art of a whole other kind, check out the "sculptural theater" that is Michael Garman's Magic Town: 3,000 square feet of what's been called a "gritty Americana dollhouse" that's stoked visitors' imaginations for over 40 years.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-7kdY6lpbW/" alt="Old City Colorado sign" caption="oldcoloradocity" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/oldcoloradocity/" /]

Hungry? Guy Fieri approves of the Mountain Shadows Restaurant, and so do locals. It's the place to go when you're craving some country-fried steak or biscuits and gravy.


<h2>9. The Money Museum, and more</h2>
The American Numismatic Association's Edward C. Rochette Money Museum is home to America's largest money-related museum collection. From how money is made to the history of currency, some say this is one of the world's best museums about numismatics, aka the study of currencies!
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CQHQbc-H645/" alt="Grading a coin" caption="americannumismatic" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/americannumismatic/" /]

It's in Arts Central, nestled between the Colorado Springs Center of Fine Arts, the Packard Hall of Music and Art, and the Edith Kinney Center. Plan well, and you can make a day of seeing great exhibits a short walk apart. With landscapes like these, it's no wonder art flourishes in Colorado Springs. History lovers have plenty of stimulating options, too, thanks to the more than 30 museums and historical organizations in town. Traveling with kids? Turn 'em loose in Play Street Museum and give yourself a breather.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CRR-nBqnilb/" alt="Learning about sharks at the Play Street Museum" caption="playstreetmuseum" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/playstreetmuseum/" /]


<h2>10. Craft beer, if you're thirsty</h2>
With more than two dozen craft breweries in the area, you'll want to do some taproom research before you come to town. That Rocky Mountain glacial water makes excellent beer, so you can't really go wrong, but some crowd favorites include Red Leg by Garden of the Gods and Local Relic.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CWgxAgasFx2/" alt="Beer and lunch from Cerberus Brewing Company" caption="cerberusbrewingco" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/cerberusbrewingco/" /]

For the full brewpub meal, though, Cerberus Brewing Company is known for their dedication to tasty cooking and a comfortable space. In warmer months, chill out in Cape Cod chairs on the patio with a pint or two.


<h2>11. Seeking something quirkier?</h2>
Into out-of-the-ordinary? How about seeing the bizarre Bishop's Castle? A highly controversial structure, this one-man architectural show is a building like none other. Visits are free, though donations are encouraged. Those who've visited advise caution when exploring the building.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CIcH6imFGzc/" alt="Exterior of Bishop's Castle" caption="mellyinthemountains" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/mellyinthemountains/" /]

Jim Bishop's story begins when, as a teenager in 1959, he plunked a $450 down payment on a plot of land he dreamed would host a castle of his own design, built by his hands. That construction began in 1969 and continues 60 years on—those visitors who've made the journey give it raves.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVUaMO1gknh/" alt="Collage of Bishop's Castle" caption="lexycaron" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/lexycaron/" /]


<h2>12. Plan it all out</h2>
Really, there's so much on offer in Colorado Springs that you'll want to crack your knuckles and do some research. It might feel like you need a month to even scratch the surface — and you definitely wouldn't run out of activities — but it's also definitely possible to spend just a few days exploring the finer points of this busy region. The hard part will be not over-scheduling yourself, but that's a great problem to have!

[caption id="attachment_50592" align="alignnone" width="5292"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50592" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/brooke-cagle-i6Jaw0rH0b8-unsplash.jpg" alt="" width="5292" height="3528" /> Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash[/caption]

Where will your memory of a lifetime begin? Whether you're all about hitting every trail you can or mostly want to indulge in some great shopping and beverages, you sure won't be bored during your trip to Colorado Springs.

[gallery ids="50594,50605,50595,50596,50597,50598,50607,50600,50601,50602,50599,50603,50604,50606,50608,50610,50611,50612"]

Colorado

Colorado Springs

Do All the Things in Colorado Springs

If you've got five days to spend in Arizona, we've got some great ideas on how to fill them.

Where once there were gunslingers and saloons, now sits modern Tucson - a dynamic desert city. Immortalized in countless Westerns like the <em>3:10 to Yuma</em> and <em>Gunfight at the O.K. Corral</em>, it's no wonder Tucson is associated with the rise of the American West. But Tucson's appeal goes far beyond Mission architecture, dramatic cacti, and rustic pueblos. Tucson is the very definition of a well-rounded getaway from science and the arts to food, history, and adventure. As one of the sunniest places in America, there's no better place to soak up the sun while seeking some fun.

If you've got five days to spend in Arizona, we've got some great ideas on how to fill them.
<h2>1. Explore Tucson's Celebrated Food History</h2>
Nowhere in America does food history run as deeply as in Tucson, where agriculture was established over 4,000 years ago. Dubbed America's first UNESCO City of Gastronomy in 2015, Tucson's food scene is one defined by that deep agricultural tradition and the ties to the Indigenous people who've called this desert plain home for 12,000 years.

Until 1853, Tucson was still part of Mexico. The Gadsden Purchase may have made it American, but the traditions and foodways of Northern Mexico and the Sonoran Desert prevail even today.
Mexican eateries abound in Tucson, but one is an institution like no other. El Charro Café has four locations, but visit the one between El Presidio and Historic Fourth Avenue because it's America's oldest Mexican restaurant, serving up traditional foods since 1922. Locals swear by the carne seca or dried beef. Time and technique set El Charro's carne seca apart. Sun-dried for three to four days, the dried aged beef is then reconstituted with chilies, onions, and tomatoes for tasty alchemy to be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CPi_A7uF5ks/" alt="Tacos from El Charro cafe" caption="elcharro.cafe" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/elcharro.cafe/" /]

But Tucson is a taco-loving city, and the best thing about tacos is that no one ever eats just one. So why not explore several of the much-loved taco joints on offer in Tucson via the Taco Bike Tour with Tucson Bike Tours? The popular 10-mile taco quest includes cycling the South Side for the real-deal tacos the locals love. Bring extra cash if you crave cervezas. Or simply follow your tortilla fiesta with a walk through the brewery district, just a short stroll from where the bike tour ends.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/BoiL4RCnoSm/" alt="Tacos from Tacos Apson" caption="tacosoftucson" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/tacosoftucson/" /]

Food history in Tucson goes far beyond Mexican influences. Lard-fried bread has deep roots in Indigenous history, but it's now a tasty vehicle for toppings of all kinds. You'll find it served straight-up as a bready delight, as a base for tacos and burgers, and even as a dessert reminiscent of funnel cake. Frybread is popular throughout southern Arizona on numerous menus around town. Worth checking out, though, is Café Santa Rosa - beloved for their fry bread and bill themselves as a modern Native American café.

Be sure you try prickly pear in all its various iterations, from ice creams to drinks. This much-loved local fruit has fed Indigenous people in these parts for thousands of years and tastes something like a hybrid of watermelon and bubblegum.


<h2>2. Tucson Loves Biking - Learn Why</h2>
If you want the local biking experience, ride the Chuck Huckelberry Loop. But call it "the Loop," like everyone else does. The Loop began life as a network of access roads built to maintain the Rillito, Pantano, and Santa Cruz riverbeds after a catastrophic flood in 1983. Since then, it's slowly been expanded into a 137-mile cycling network and is an amazing way to see the region.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVfs611pd-a/" alt="View of the loop under a highway overpass" caption="amandajonesphoto" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/amandajonesphoto/" /]

The Loop takes you all over Pima County, from malls to galleries to parks and restaurants. But if you're looking for a different experience, download the "Artwork Along the Loop" pamphlet showing 60 public works of art found along the trails. Before you set out, visit Fortunato's Italian Deli on Tanque Verde for a picnic lunch to enjoy along the way.

[caption id="attachment_50169" align="alignnone" width="2127"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50169" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-550057891.jpg" alt="Adobe home, Tucson historic district." width="2127" height="1409" /> Claude LeTien / Getty Images[/caption]

But with landscapes like this, why stay urban? Tucson's proud of its mountain-biking community, and they've been working hard to develop their network of trails in Pima County. Single-track trails of all difficulty levels stretch throughout the region - carving up rocky slopes, following dried-out riverbeds, and meandering through prickly cacti. With cactus everywhere, be sure you pack tweezers and a tire-patching kit. And don't push your luck with trails - there's a hardcore community here, so stick to trails that match your abilities.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50170" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/shutterstock_643897120.jpg" alt="Mountain Biking outside of Tucson" width="1000" height="750" />


<h2>3. Get Dusty: Hiking Day Trips</h2>
Just outside city limits to the northwest, Saguaro National Park is a must-see, particularly at dawn or dusk, when the sky is alight in color, and saguaro cacti cast dramatic silhouettes. The saguaro is native to the Sonoran Desert and is the nation's largest cactus, some growing as high as 40 feet tall. Any cactus with at least one sidearm is already 75 to 100 years old. The more arms, typically, the older it is. On average, these beloved cacti live 150 to 200 years and are protected in Arizona.

[caption id="attachment_50171" align="alignnone" width="3200"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50171" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-486143548.jpg" alt="An early spring Arizona landscape in morning light with saguaro cactus reflected in a large puddle at the bottom of the frame. A man hikes in the distance. Shot in Saguaro National Park in Tucson, Arizona. Some copy space in the sky." width="3200" height="2130" /> JannHuizenga / Getty Images[/caption]

May through early June is the peak cactus bloom season. The saguaro's melon-scented blossoms live only for a day, opening after sunset and closing by mid-afternoon, ending that blossom's literal day in the sun. Strolling through can be a magical early-morning experience. Even without the blooms, you'll find it worth the time to hike or bike in Saguaro National Park, as it's a captivating landscape unrivaled outside the Sonoran Desert and is unique to this part of the world.

[caption id="attachment_50172" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50172" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-178749330.jpg" alt="A majestic Saguaro cactus towers above the colorful Sonoran desert landscape beneath a canopy of white clouds." width="2121" height="1414" /> Woodkern / Getty Images[/caption]

Locals love Sabino Canyon, in the Santa Catalina Foothills, at the north end of the city. There, a 3.8-mile paved road makes this canyon fully accessible for walkers and runners of all abilities. Those looking for an easier day can ride the $10 tram, which has guided narration. Good thing, too, because there's much to learn about this stunning landscape. If you're packing water and good shoes, get off the main stretch and explore trails that'll take you to places like Bear Canyon and the swimming holes of Seven Falls.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-50173" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/shutterstock_595007864.jpg" alt="The Seven Falls Trail, Santa Catalina Mountains,Tuscon, Arizona, North America" width="1000" height="667" />

Hiking abounds in Tucson, and Visit Tucson has you covered with a list of the best hikes and trails.


<h2>4. Explore the Abandoned Wild West</h2>
If Tucson is the epitome of the American Old West, Tombstone is its still-beating heart, just over an hour from the city. Being where the <em>Gunfight at the O.K. Corral</em> unfolded, Tombstone is a hot spot for visitors looking to see reenactments, displays, and curios of that time. Tombstone has preserved its Old West heritage so well that you might think you hear Doc Holliday's spurs clapping on the boardwalk behind you. Elsewhere, though, the Western story is being lost to time as ghost towns crumble and decay.

[caption id="attachment_50174" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50174" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-97668677.jpg" alt="Through a thick layer of gunsmoke, Tombstone marshals blow away 'Mexican' banditos, as actors sprawl across the ground during a western scene performed in Tombstone, Arizona, 2005. " width="1024" height="683" /> Cathy Murphy / Getty Images[/caption]

Rent a car and explore remnants of derelict towns forgotten by time. The best-preserved ghost town is Ruby, about 70 miles south of Tucson. A mining town born with the discovery of quartz in the 1870s, the mine closed in 1940, forcing out-of-work townsfolk to cut their losses and head for work elsewhere. Today, Ruby is privately owned, and you'll pay admission to step into history here.

[caption id="attachment_50175" align="alignnone" width="2106"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50175" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-1271244256.jpg" alt="Ruby is a mining ghost town in Santa Cruz County, Arizona, United States. Mining started around 1877, when the Montana Mine produced gold, silver, lead, zinc and copper. At its peak in the mid-1930s, Ruby had a population of about 1,200. The most prosperous period for Ruby was in the late 1920s and 30s. From 1934 to 1937, the Montana mine was the leading lead and zinc producer in Arizona. In 1936, it was third in silver production. The mine closed in 1940, and by the end of 1941 Ruby was abandoned." width="2106" height="1424" /> GeoStock / Getty Images[/caption]

If you'd rather ghost towns au naturel, they're all around Southern Arizona. Keep your eyes open and your boots on, and you'll stumble upon bunkhouses, saloons, jails, and other relics of the old frontier all around Tucson.


<h2>5. For Arts Lovers: A Day in Tubac</h2>
Just 45 minutes south of Tucson sits the small town of Tubac. With just 1,400 residents, you'll be shocked by how prolific this community is. Art galleries, festivals, and even live performances abound. Spend a day wandering galleries, but take in the morning and evening light if you can, as it's what compels so many artists to create here. Start at the Tubac Center of the Arts, then wander the private galleries that fill the town.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CVGW9cOPUm5/" alt="Pottery in Tubac" caption="litlnance" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/litlnance/" /]

When hunger strikes, visit Elvira's on Frontage Road. Though pricey, it's a one-of-a-kind dining experience any art lover will enjoy. You'll be spellbound as you dine, marveling over the thousands of pieces of ethereal blown glass dangling from the ceiling. (Try their various mole-based dishes, but don't skip the flan - it's worth the calories.)
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CKz4hIeFWi3/" alt="grilled rib eye tacos" caption="elviras_tubac" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/elviras_tubac/" /]


<h2>6. Get Your Science Geek On</h2>
The University of Arizona is at the center of scientific advances in Tucson. On their campus, you'll find the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab, renowned in optics as makers of some of the largest and most advanced telescopes in the world, which allow scientists to study the furthest edges of our universe. (Inquire in advance if they're doing tours during your visit.)

[caption id="attachment_50161" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50161" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-114650424.jpg" alt="TUCSON, AZ - AUGUST 2008: Here a technician looks over the Large Synoptic Survey Telescope's 8.4 meter mirror for any major flaws, beneath the University of Arizona football stadium. This glass of the mirror, made from ten pound glass chunks, will be polished within one millionth of an inch of the precise concave shape that is required. The reflective surface will be created by a thin coating of aluminum. LSST Mirror construction in Steward Observatory at the University of Arizona Mirror Lab." width="1024" height="681" /> Joe McNally / Getty Images[/caption]

But their most remarkable lab is 40 minutes north of the city. For over 30 years, U of A scientists have nurtured a manmade ecosystem with seven distinct habitats, including rain forests, ocean, mangrove forests, and more. The 75-minute Biosphere 2 Experience must be booked online in advance, as tours are extremely limited. If you've ever struggled to keep a plant alive, you'll be stunned at the enormity of this revolutionary science experience that may serve as the blueprint for urban life in the future.

[caption id="attachment_50163" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50163" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-871350650.jpg" alt="ORACLE, TUCSON, AZ - ARPIL 12: Biosphere 2 is an Earth systems science research facility located in Oracle, Arizona. It has been owned by the University of Arizona since 2011. Its mission is to serve as a center for research, outreach, teaching, and lifelong learning about Earth, its living systems April 12, 1990 Oracle, Tucson, Arizona" width="1024" height="665" /> Paul Harris / Getty Images[/caption]

Tucson also has deep roots in aviation and space exploration, and few places on Earth offer celebrate aeronautic engineering like the legendary Aircraft Boneyard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base.

The largest airplane boneyard in the world, it holds some 4,400 planes, thanks to the unique climate and surface qualities that make it ideal for preserving the planes' condition. As this is a working Air Force base, it's off-limits for visitors beyond the guided 90-minute bus tour. For a closer look at planes, visit the Pima Air &amp; Space Museum, where more than 400 aircraft on their 80-acre site can be wandered amongst and admired.

[caption id="attachment_50167" align="alignnone" width="3444"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50167" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-532490758.jpg" alt="Field of B-52 Stratofortresses" width="3444" height="2316" /> Jim Sugar / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Need Ideas? Research on Instagram</h2>
The @visittucson Instagram account is a wealth of travel inspiration. Loaded with natural landscapes, tasty local food, arts, and culture, the account is a wealth of Tucson sights and experiences. Get great ideas on new places to eat and where to photograph the best sunsets. It's a great spot to see fascinating experiences that may require advanced booking, like the aforementioned Biosphere 2 Experiment.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUkWNPUM2iA/" alt="View of the Hotel McCoy" caption="sarahbmansell" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/visittucson/" /]

Explore accounts tagged by @visittucson and check out the hashtags too. You may find yourself in some rewarding travel rabbit holes with adventure ideas only the locals know about.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CPb7apDL_yp/" alt="Neon Tucson sign" caption="atwillett" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/visittucson/" /]


<h2>8. Don't Miss Historic Fourth Avenue</h2>
What Tusconans call the "Fourth" is where the local counter-culture beat unfolds. Hip for a half-century now, it's home to the much-loved Fourth Avenue Street Fair, held early winter and mid-spring annually. Loaded with eclectic shops from bookstores to artisans, you'd be remiss if you didn't stay for the after-hours scene. Nestled between the university and downtown, Fourth's where you'll find some of the best bars and evening spots to have a cocktail and people-watch or wear yourself out on a dance floor.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CSp-cuaIq3o/" alt="Photo from the 2017 Fourth Avenue Winter Street Fair" caption="4thavetucson" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/4thavetucson/" /]


<h2>9. Congregate on Congress Street</h2>
If Fourth's too bohemian for your taste, try Congress Street. This once-thriving street became a shadow of itself but was reinvented through creative urban planning. The city reduced traffic by removing a lane, then widened sidewalks, brought in a streetcar, and even planted trees for abundant shade for pedestrians. Over two decades later, Congress Street is a thriving economic and cultural hub.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CRr_N99BZCM/" alt="Rain on Congress Street in Tucson" caption="visittucson" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/visittucson/" /]

It's here you'll find events loved by locals, like "Second Saturday," a monthly street festival that brings vendors, artisans, food trucks, open galleries, and even live performances.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CNv868YBOkV/" alt="" caption="downtowntucson" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/downtowntucson/" /]

Easily make a day of it along this 1.63-mile street of contrasts, where you'll find vivid barrios and historic sites, bustling shops and live venues, plenty of restaurants, and even craft breweries. Plan stops at the Tucson Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art to round out your day. Photography lovers cannot miss the free exhibits at the compelling Etherton Gallery, which feels like a museum, but which is one of the country's most renowned photography dealers.


<h2>10. Explore Your Tucson Your Way</h2>
From golfers and cyclists to shopping fanatics and foodies, there's something for everyone in Tucson. Be sure you pore over the VisitTucson.org site, where they've got trip ideas that'll be perfect for you, no matter what your interests are.

[caption id="attachment_50176" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-50176" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/11/GettyImages-469932015.jpg" alt="A photo of a waitress holding a giant platter of salad. Romaine lettuce, tomatoes, chicken, cilantro, cheese and tortilla strips" width="2121" height="1414" /> Jackie Alpers / Getty Images[/caption]

There's no question that Tucson has plenty to fill your days with. The only question now is, how many trips will you need before you've seen all this dynamic city has on offer?

[gallery ids="50188,50184,50194,50177,50195,50196,50192,50186,42653,50193,50187,50178,50185,50183,50189,50197,42655,42647,50191,50181,50190,50179,50182"]

Arizona

Tucson

Take a Few Days to Really Enjoy Tucson

If you're interested in checking out a few places near Kansas City, these sights are always worth a trip.

Situated right in the center of the Midwest and home to four major interstates, Kansas City is one of the easiest places to use as your home base when exploring the states of the Great Plains. Whether you're interested in driving to Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Iowa, or eastern Missouri, you can usually do some exploring with less than three hours' worth of driving.

&nbsp;
<h2>1. Kansas City, Kan.</h2>
This is the most accessible trip on the list, as Kansas City, Kansas (known locally as KCK) is only a few minutes away from Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO). You'll find plenty of action in KCK, as it's home to both Sporting Kansas City of MLS and the Kansas Speedway. The Hollywood Casino sits next door to the Speedway, and you'll also find excellent shopping at the Legends Outlets Stores, home to about 100 discount shopping destinations.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49987" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/darren-hibbs-0oJ5PZE4q8M-unsplash.jpg" alt="Photo by Darren Hibbs on Unsplash" width="6240" height="4160" />


<h2>2. Omaha, Neb.</h2>
The Henry Doorly Zoo is worth the visit to Nebraska's largest city on its own, as it's one of the best and largest zoos in the nation. You'll see North America's largest indoor rainforest and the world's largest indoor desert here, and you can walk across the Missouri River on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. Omaha is also a great city for foodies: it's the birthplace of the Reuben, and the steaks at the Drover are truly legendary.

[caption id="attachment_49988" align="alignnone" width="6000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49988" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/zachary-spears-DcweRpj62Ds-unsplash.jpg" alt="Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha, United States" width="6000" height="3376" /> Photo by Zachary Spears on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>3. Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri</h2>
If you're interested in exploring the great outdoors, Lake of the Ozarks is where you want to be. With more than 80 miles of shoreline on the lake, this is the perfect place to experience the best of fishing, tubing, and other exciting ways to spend a day in the great outdoors. If you're looking for a more natural experience, Bridal Cave sits just south of the lake in Camdenton and offers some of the most majestic underground views anywhere in the United States.

[caption id="attachment_49989" align="alignnone" width="2096"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49989" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-1270879149.jpg" alt="Lake of the Ozarks - Lake &amp; Clouds 1988" width="2096" height="1430" /> scgerding / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Independence, MO</h2>
If you ever played the Oregon Trail while growing up, you're familiar with Independence, as it was the jumping-off point for settlers traveling west from the Midwest to a new life in Oregon. Not only can you explore the National Frontier Trails Museum, but Independence is also home to the Harry Truman presidential library. Missouri's only president made his home here, and you'll be able to explore his home as well as artifacts from the tail end of World War II. If you're into architecture, check out the unique design of the Community of Christ Temple.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CM441BDrIKx/" alt="Replica covered wagon in Independence, Mo" caption="visitindependence" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/visitindependence/" /]


<h2>5. Mark Twain State Park</h2>
If you're interested in literature and nature, Mark Twain State Park brings both together. This trip is a bit out of the way from Kansas City, as the town of Florida, Mo., is now uninhabited and difficult to reach from the western part of the state. But if you're willing to make the trip to Mark Twain Lake, you'll find some incredible views of the water, and you can explore the birthplace of Mark Twain, born Samuel Clemens. If you ever read "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" or "The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," this is absolutely worth a visit.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/Bqm1sxbDXUc/" alt="Sunset at Mark Twain State Park" caption="41shutterclicks" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/missouristateparks/" /]


<h2>6. Winterset, Iowa, and Madison County</h2>
If you're a fan of the book or the movie "The Bridges of Madison County," it's worth making a trip up Interstate 35 to see the real bridges for yourself. There are six bridges in all, two of which made it into the film and one of which you can actually drive across. The bridges are spread out across several small towns near Winterset, which sits just a half-hour south of Des Moines, so you'll be able to visit Iowa's capital city on the same trip.

[caption id="attachment_49983" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/1127218545.jpg" alt="Visitors can walk across and write their names in the six bridges of Madison County." width="1200" height="960" /> JMP Traveler / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Lawrence, Kan.</h2>
If you're a lover of basketball, there's plenty for you in Lawrence, home of the University of Kansas and its championship basketball team. The Jayhawks are one of the blue bloods of college basketball, and during the winter, Allen Fieldhouse is one of the places to be in the KC area. The Bells of Mount Oread sit on Kansas' campus as a memorial to KU students lost in World War II and serves as the first American memorial that could not be used for anything but viewing. Lawrence is also well known for its music scene, and you're likely to find a few worthwhile shows here.

[caption id="attachment_49990" align="alignnone" width="4608"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49990" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/laura-gilchrist-hXQUhAscZhc-unsplash.jpg" alt="Grinter Sunflower Farms (Grinter Farms, Inc.), Stillwell Road, Lawrence, KS, USA" width="4608" height="3456" /> Photo by Laura Gilchrist on Unsplash[/caption]


<h2>8. Joplin, Mo.</h2>
Near the edge of the Missouri state line with Oklahoma, you'll find Joplin, situated on historic Route 66. Joplin might be overlooked among Missouri cities, but there's plenty to do here, including a visit to Grand Falls and George Washington Carver's boyhood home, known as the Mason Carver House. Once you've had your fill of the waterfalls, you'll find some incredible fishing spots to close out your day.

[caption id="attachment_49740" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/1134813872.jpg" alt="Grand Falls is just minutes away from the Oklahoma state line, located in Joplin, Mo." width="1200" height="800" /> derrickkeeton / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Tulsa, Okla.</h2>
How does a journey to the center of the universe sound? You'll find it in Tulsa, as there's a spot where you can hear the echoes that nobody else can when you stand there. You'll also find some of the works of Pablo Picasso and Georgia O'Keeffe in Tulsa at the Philbrook Museum, and you'll have the chance to explore Native American culture by seeing the collection of Thomas Gilcrease at the Gilcrease Museum. If you're into culture and history, Tulsa is worth the drive.

[caption id="attachment_49741" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/1190846915.jpg" alt="Tulsa is one of Oklahoma's largest cities and home to two renowned art museums." width="1200" height="800" /> Sean Pavone / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. St. Louis</h2>
It's almost hard to believe that Kansas City and St. Louis are in the same state, given that they sit on complete opposite ends of the state of Missouri. The Gateway to the West is absolutely worth the drive across Interstate 70, as it's home to its iconic Gateway Arch as well as some incredibly fun museums. You'll love exploring the interactive City Museum, and nature lovers can enjoy the massive Forest Park, about 500 acres larger than New York City's Central Park. If you didn't get your fill of barbecue in Kansas City, you'll also find some great barbecue in St. Louis.

[caption id="attachment_49986" align="alignnone" width="1961"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49986" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-521897540.jpg" alt="Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri" width="1961" height="1529" /> Owaki - Kulla / Getty Images[/caption]

Missouri

Exciting Day Trips From Kansas City, Missouri

Buckle up because you're about to take a recon trip through the wild and wondrous west.

Colorado is arguably the best place to own a vehicle in the U.S. The state has a whopping 26 Scenic and Historic Byways that criss-cross between welcoming communities and ghost town relics of the past. There's so much to soak up along these epic highways; you could spend months doing Colorado road trips. But we've rounded up some highlights to help you get the show on the road.
<h2>1. Look down then up at Black Canyon National Park</h2>
South of the I-70, you'll find a place that's short on crowds but long on natural drama. At Black Canyon National Park, there's a gorge so deep; the floor barely gets any light.

Sans light pollution, astronomy enthusiasts can gaze up at the skies in this International Dark Sky Park and contemplate life's great questions.

[caption id="attachment_49863" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/530185374.jpg" alt="Milky Way" width="1200" height="799" /> bjdlzx / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Travel through time on the Trail of the Ancients</h2>
This Colorado road trip begins in Mesa Verde National Park and ends in Ute Mountain Tribal Park. One for lovers of history and culture, it winds through 113 miles of striking canyons and plains.

Places of great archaeological import abound. Mesa Verde National Park houses hundreds of captivating Ancestral Puebloan cliff-side dwellings, and you'd do well to book a ranger for the lowdown.

[caption id="attachment_49864" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/1069684482.jpg" alt="Cliff Palace, Mesa Verde National Park" width="1200" height="992" /> MargaretW / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Go from forest to desert via Route 160</h2>
Between Mesa Verde and Alamosa on Route 160, there's Pagosa Springs. Here, you'll find the world's deepest geothermal hot springs. After you've taken a dip in the revitalizing waters, the next regional milestone is Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve.

It's a stark contrast to the lush greenery you'll see elsewhere in Colorado. The dunes are 750 feet tall, perfect for sand activities. Visit them earlier in the day before heading to Medano Creek for a seasonal splash.

[caption id="attachment_49865" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/103785213.jpg" alt="Great Sand Dunes National Park" width="1200" height="785" /> John Elk III / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Go where dinos roamed</h2>
In the northwest of the Centennial State, there's lots of reptilian fun to be had. The Dinosaur Diamond Scenic Byway connects Colorado to Utah. The Colorado segment is 134 miles long, and it peaks and plateaus its way past fossil quarries, dino-themed stops, and two national monuments.

Be sure to check out Saddlehorn, a memorable campsite within Colorado National Monument.

[caption id="attachment_49875" align="alignnone" width="1999"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49875" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-465556805.jpg" alt="Steamboat Rock at the Confluence of the Yampa and Green Rivers in Dinosaur National Monument , Northwest Colorado" width="1999" height="1499" /> nadjarider / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Don't pass on Boreas Pass</h2>
Starting in Como near Highway 285, Boreas Pass Road is a 22-mile stretch of sheer autumnal beauty. While fall is a great time to make your way down this spectacular part of Colorado, spring is pretty awesome too.

Wildflower season is in full swing, and you can enjoy the floral display while cracking open a nice cold can of your favorite beverage. The mountains loom large on this high-alpine drive to or from Breckenridge.

[caption id="attachment_49867" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/140235895.jpg" alt="Boreas Pass" width="1200" height="800" /> miws16 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Pike's Peak takes you to new heights</h2>
If you're near Colorado Springs, Pike's Peak Highway beginning near U.S. Highway 24 is a must-do. Expect to climb and keep on climbing en route to Pike's Peak, the most-visited mountain in all of North America.

The hiking at Garden of the Gods near Manitou Springs is top-notch, and the surreal reddish rock formations may just haunt your dreams. Hop on board the Pike's Peak Cog Railway for some of the best views on this side of the western hemisphere.

[caption id="attachment_49876" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49876" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-682148104.jpg" alt="Street winding down from Pikes Peak summit, Colorado" width="2121" height="1414" /> emson / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Trail Ridge Road gives new meaning to picturesque</h2>
Curvy, high-altitude Trail Ridge Road is a photographer's delight, but only during summer and fall when it's open. Once a trade path for the Apache and Arapaho, this almost 50-mile portion of U.S. Highway 34 starts in Estes Park and makes its way through Rocky Mountain National Park.

Visitors get glimpses of glaciers and ponds on the way to the gorgeous Grand Lake. There's so much natural splendor you might break out into song.

[caption id="attachment_49877" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49877" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-1197540229.jpg" alt="Above the clouds along Trail Ridge Road in Rocky Mountain National Park during the fall" width="2121" height="1414" /> Dawn Brandt / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Million Dollar Highway is priceless</h2>
Along the San Juan Skyway betwixt Ouray and Silverton, you'll find Million Dollar Highway. Think of a cartoon character with dollar signs in its eyes. That'll be you when you get a chance to see the richly adorned Red Mountain Pass section of U.S. 550.

The area is rich in history too, with numerous old silver mine towns. But beware, the drive is difficult, so if you're a new driver, you might want to hand over the reins if you have company.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49878" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_785776606.jpg" alt="Colorado Highway 550. Famous Million Dollars Highway Near Durango, Colorado, United States. San Juan County." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>9. Relish your freedom along Independence Pass</h2>
Between Twin Lakes and glamorous Aspen, there's an enviable bit of road. Independence Pass is closed in winter. But when it's open, it sure is breathtaking.

Spanning only 27 miles, this sliver of State Highway 82 is well worth the sojourn. You can go fishing or paddle-boarding at Twin Lakes Reservoir, and there's a fascinating blast from the past in the form of Interlaken, a resort constructed in the 19th century.
<div class="mceTemp"></div>

[caption id="attachment_49879" align="alignnone" width="2119"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49879" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-1213527712.jpg" alt="Independence Pass snow rocky mountain view and paved road scenic byway in morning sunrise near Aspen, Colorado in green autumn winter" width="2119" height="1414" /> krblokhin / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Tell tales on the Highway of Legends</h2>
How could you possibly resist a road called Highway of Legends?

For one, there are Native American myths aplenty on this route. And it segues through 82 miles of storied prettiness. There's even an app that explains what you see as you drive by, complete with local lore. The future is here, people.

Veering away from Interstate 25, you'll circle the Spanish Peaks. Grab a bite in the towns of Cuchara and La Veta.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49880" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_1825656110.jpg" alt="the Spanish Peaks with a small homestead in the foreground on a clear day" width="1000" height="667" />

Fall in Love With Colorado on These Scenic Trips

The Discovery Route is your ticket to amazing places and beautiful sights. This could be your best California vacation ever!

The Discovery Route is your ticket to amazing places and beautiful sights. This part of the Central California Coast features a "wow" moment around just about every curve. Awe-inspiring sunsets? Check. A world-famous castle known for its opulence? Check. World-class wineries? Check. California beach towns? Check.

You'll discover restaurants with seafood caught within sight of your table. You will experience California history, sand dunes that'll make you think you're in the Sahara, and fun places to shop.

This could be your best California vacation ever!
<h2>1. See the Piedras Blancas Light Station</h2>
Piedras Blancas Lighthouse was first lit in 1875 and remains one of 30 working lighthouses in California. Originally 100 feet high, an earthquake on New Year's Eve 1948 resulted in the top three floors of the lighthouse being damaged and subsequently removed.

Piedras Blancas became automated in 1975. The light station has been restored to its condition from 1940 with public access via guided tours.

[caption id="attachment_49767" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/501088754.jpg" alt="Piedras Blancas Light Station and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service biological research station." width="1200" height="795" /> CampPhoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Say hello to 17,000 elephant seals</h2>
Two miles south of the Piedras Blancas Light Station is the largest elephant seal rookery on the West Coast. You'll likely hear them while you're visiting the light station.

You'll generally find around 17,000 seals lounging on the beach or relaxing in the Pacific, and they are here year-round. There's plenty of free parking, and there is a flat, wheelchair-accessible path above the beach.

[caption id="attachment_49768" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/678418244.jpg" alt="Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery, home to roughly 25,000 Northern Elephant Seals. " width="1200" height="606" /> htrnr / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Hearst Castle, "What God would have built if He had the money."</h2>
The quote is from George Bernard Shaw, and it sums up the opulence and grandeur of the palatial estate William Randolph Hearst had built in San Simeon. This is the most well-known landmark on the Discovery Route, and it has to be seen to be believed.

Hearst Castle features 167 rooms filled with art and furnishings from every corner of the world. In addition to the 167 rooms, the Castle is surrounded by 127 acres of gardens, pools, and walkways. Be sure to allow at least three hours to see it all.

&nbsp;

[caption id="attachment_49779" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49779" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_50652034.jpg" alt="Hearst Castle Outdoor Pool" width="1000" height="667" /> Vlad G / Shutterstock.com[/caption]


<h2>4. Escape from it all in Cambria</h2>
The village of Cambria is the perfect complement to Hearst Castle. It sits between a beautiful coastline and pine forests, offering visitors beaches, hiking and biking trails, wonderful restaurants, shopping, and boutique hotels.

Cambria is home to the Fiscalini Ranch Preserve, 437 acres extending from the coast through a grassy terrace and a forested ridge. Visitors can see migrating whales and birds, all while enjoying miles of trails from the ocean to the pines.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49780" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_1149293642.jpg" alt="Fiscalini Ranch Preserve" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>5. Visit a Volcano in Morro Bay</h2>
Morro Bay is famous for Morro Rock, part of the Nine Sisters chain of volcanos from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay. This is a seaside fishing village with activities for everyone in the family: shopping, galleries, coastal golf courses, kayaking, and kite flying.

Morro Bay also features the finest ocean-to-table seafood, oysters from two local, sustainable oyster farms, and farm-to-table fares such as steaks and barbeque.

[caption id="attachment_49781" align="alignnone" width="3008"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49781" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-174904461.jpg" alt="Sunrise on Morro Rock in CA" width="3008" height="2000" /> JFTringali / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Hike California's mountain of gold</h2>
Montana de Oro State Park includes 1,347-foot Valencia Peak, which got the name Mountain of Gold because it is covered in yellow wildflowers in the spring. The beaches of this state park have spectacular scenery produced by millions of years of volcanic activity.

This is a perfect location for those looking for solitude. There are primitive campsites available in addition to RV and equestrian sites.

[caption id="attachment_49772" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/183409024.jpg" alt="The rugged cliffs that makeup part of Montana de Oro State Park." width="1200" height="946" /> Ron and Patty Thomas / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. While you're here, enjoy a glass of central California wine</h2>
The vines along the Discovery Route are some of the oldest in California, having been planted in the 1700s by Franciscan monks as they moved north. The climate along the Central California coast is perfect for Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays.

Two areas to explore are Arroyo Grande and the Edna Valley. Arroyo Grande is a few miles inland and is a typical Central Coast village. You'll find tasting rooms all along the main streets. The wineries in Edna Valley are more bucolic, set against rolling hills and vineyards. It's the perfect place for a picnic.

[caption id="attachment_49773" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/172626014.jpg" alt="Edna Valley vineyard set a few miles from the Central California coast." width="1200" height="797" /> swalls / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Enjoy the microclimate of Avila Beach</h2>
The locals call it the Avila Bubble because when all the other beach towns are fogged in, Avila is bathed in sunshine. The reason: Avila is surrounded by hills that keep out the fog and low clouds.

The Central Coast Aquarium is here, as are natural, mineral hot springs, and more Central Coast wineries. The Bob Jones Trail is a great place for some exercise; this paved bike and walking trail starts off Highway 101 and ends in downtown Avila Beach.

[caption id="attachment_49774" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/1131554232.jpg" alt="Avila Beach pier at sunset." width="1200" height="675" /> piola666 / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Pismo Beach and the monarch butterfly</h2>
Pismo Beach is a classic California beach town. It features long white shorelines, perfect for surfing, walking, tossing a frisbee, or fishing. There's a boardwalk adjacent to the Pismo pier, with a playground and a giant slide that will take you from the pier to the beach below.

About those butterflies. There is a grove of eucalyptus trees south of town that attracts migrating monarchs every November through February.

[caption id="attachment_49775" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/590058248.jpg" alt="Downtown Pismo Beach." width="1200" height="800" /> tupungato / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Oceano Sand Dunes in Pismo Beach</h2>
The Oceano Dunes are part of the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes complex, covering 18 miles of coastline. The state is beginning to limit vehicle access to the dunes but walking the dunes is not only allowed, but it's also fun.

Bring a disc sled because you'll want to ride down the steep hills. Walk the dunes, and you'll think you're in a desert when, in reality, you will only be a few miles from the Pacific.

[caption id="attachment_49776" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/471183989.jpg" alt="Oceano Sand Dunes near Pismo Beach." width="1200" height="800" /> halbergman / Getty Images[/caption]

California

Stops You Have to Make Along Highway 1

The state&#x2d;run and private ferry systems in Seattle are efficient and affordable ways to take in some fresh air and discover the many island destinations nearby.

Seattle is one of the gems of the Pacific Northwest. Not only are there gorgeous mountains and endless trails to explore nearby, but there's also Puget Sound to the west and Lake Washington to the east, creating easy access to water. The state-run and private ferry systems in Seattle are efficient and affordable ways to take in some fresh air and discover the many island destinations nearby. On most ferries, you can load up your car or bike to take with you.
<h2>1. West Seattle</h2>
From downtown Seattle, you can catch a couple of different ferries to West Seattle, the largest and oldest of the city's neighborhoods. Around one-fifth of all Seattle residents live here. It sits on a peninsula that extends into Puget Sound and is a laidback community with a passion for environmentalism. West Seattle connects to the rest of the city via a bridge, but a ferry ride offers a unique perspective of the area. Visit the beachfront community of Alki for amazing views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and Elliott Bay.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49701" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_1598011087.jpg" alt="Trees are alive with autumn colors along the shore at Lincoln Park in West Seattle, Washington." width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Bainbridge Island</h2>
If you're seeking the ideal day trip, opt for the 35-minute ferry ride to Bainbridge Island. You don't need a car to access this community since most of the popular spots are accessible on foot from the terminal in Eagle Harbor. Wineries, coffee houses, distilleries, cafes, and a wide variety of cuisine options make it the perfect locale for foodies. While you're here, visit the Bloedel Reserve, one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the country. During the Christmas season, this charming community is famous for its decorative yuletide cheer.

[caption id="attachment_49696" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49696" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-178838827.jpg" alt="Poulsbo Bainbridge Island Puget Sound Snow Mountains Olympic National Park Washington State Pacific Northwest" width="2121" height="1414" /> bpperry / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. San Juan Islands</h2>
Lush forests, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking scenic beauty make up this unique locale, the San Juan Islands, a four-hour ferry ride from Seattle. Here, you'll find everything you need to satisfy your wanderlust, along with some pampering and self-care opportunities. There are spas, delicious culinary options, museums, and festivals to enjoy. Visit an alpaca farm on the isle of San Juan, hike through Moran State Park on Orcas, or experience a barn dance or a local art exhibition on Lopez Island.

[caption id="attachment_49695" align="alignnone" width="2124"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49695" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-176010613.jpg" alt="Ferry boat in Washington State in the San Juan Islands. At the dock in Friday Harbor." width="2124" height="1411" /> MoniqueRodriguez / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Vashon Island</h2>
Just a 20-minute ferry ride from Seattle, you'll find the mellow-vibed Vashon Island. The artsy, calming atmosphere here makes for a perfect day trip, but you may love it so much you'll want to spend the night in one of its intriguing and comfy options for accommodations or exploring the island on a bicycle. If you're seeking beautiful beaches, Vashon Island may become your new favorite destination. Great food tops off the reasons why it's such a popular place. There's a diverse collection of eateries here serving locally sourced ingredients with lots of vegetarian options.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49697" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_740101558.jpg" alt="Marina on Vashon Island with Mt Rainier in background" width="1000" height="567" />


<h2>5. Bremerton</h2>
Relax on an hour-long water excursion from Seattle to Bremerton, one of Washington's most beautiful cities. If you prefer a shorter trip, you can opt for a 30-minute fast ferry ride. The city rests on the Kitsap Peninsula, overlooking Puget Sound. Take a stroll through the arts district, visit a lavender farm, or explore the Harborside Fountain Park. You can even take a five-mile hike to the top of Green Mountain, the second-highest point on the peninsula.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-49698" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/shutterstock_467784098.jpg" alt="Serere Sunset in Bremerton, Washington" width="1000" height="572" />


<h2>6. Port Orchard</h2>
This waterfront community has the distinction of being the first city in Kitsap County and is about an hour-long ferry ride from Seattle. If you're a lover of antiques, gift shops, and delicious food, you may have found your home away from home here. It's a beautiful town, with walking paths, cafes, pubs, a marina, free concerts, parades, a dog park, and lots of military history. Through mid-October, enjoy the Port Orchard Farmers Market. Or, enjoy perusing the Port Orchard Public Market year-round. If you're in Bremerton, you can take a quick 10-minute ferry from there to this friendly town.

[caption id="attachment_49699" align="alignnone" width="2322"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49699" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-492900633.jpg" alt="Port Orchard, WA Bay Street waterfront view of Puget Sound." width="2322" height="1290" /> irina88w / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Vancouver Island, British Columbia</h2>
Board a ferry and land on Vancouver Island in just under three hours, whereas traveling by bus would take closer to nine. Three different ferry services bring visitors here, but they're super-busy in the summer, so reservations are a necessity. If you take the Clipper, you'll land in Victoria, on the southern end of the island, and from there, prepare for the wonders of the area's natural surroundings. Wildlife cruises, seaplane tours, waterfall hikes, wine tours, and even a grizzly bear expedition await you.

[caption id="attachment_49694" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49694" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-498345906.jpg" alt="Young woman on the beach drawing a heart shape on the sand at sunset. Autumn season in Vancouver Island, Canada." width="2121" height="1414" /> swissmediavision / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Blake Island</h2>
Imagine 475 acres of hiking trails, spectacular views of the Seattle skyline and Mount Rainier, and beachfront campgrounds where you can spend the night under a starlit sky. Reach Blake Island State Park via ferry from Seattle during specific seasons of the year. Choose a fast ferry that takes you there in less than 30 minutes, or join a tour for an extended experience.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CTtOMFBFcJH/" alt="blake island hiking views skyline" caption="xavierlecouturier" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/xavierlecouturier/" /]


<h2>9. Whidbey Island</h2>
It's the longest island in the continental U.S., a place where gorgeous natural settings surround you. The ferry leaves just north of Seattle in Mukilteo, then docks at Clinton, Whidbey Island's gateway community, where you'll discover a charming array of locally-owned shops and cafes, a local winery, vineyards, and several family farms that you can visit. Explore Fort Ebey State Park or one of the four lakes around the island. Art lovers shouldn't miss the Price Sculpture Forest near Coupeville, 16 woodland acres where art meets nature.

[caption id="attachment_49700" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-49700" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2021/10/GettyImages-1146973404.jpg" alt="Three old buildings anchor the waterfront strip of downtown Coupeville on Whidbey Island in Washington State." width="2121" height="1413" /> searagen / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. Guemes Island</h2>
Unplug and rewind on the tiny island of Guemes. Here, there's no such thing as the hustle and bustle. Instead of giant grocery stores, you'll find nostalgic general stores where you can shop for snacks and other items. Guemes Island has its own ferry system. Catch a bus or train from Seattle to Anacortes and ferry from there. If you're seeking a serene hike, try the Guemes Mountain Trail, a two-mile, moderate-level trek through a Douglas fir and red cedar forest. Boating, fishing, and crabbing are also popular outdoor activities here.

[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CUQCFn8FR8L/" alt="Guemes Island at sunset" caption="eliabramovitz" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/eliabramovitz/" /]