Places & Experiences

Plan better, prepare better, adventure better.

Spontaneous and unplanned trips can sometimes be the most memorable. But usually, a little preparation leads to better travel experiences. We have tips on everything from what to pack and how to travel more responsibly to the best ways to keep entertained during long road trips.

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4 Days of Adventure in Dinosaurland, Utah

4 Days of Adventure in Dinosaurland, Utah

This summer, take a road trip through America’s dinosaur capital: the city of Vernal, affectionately known as Dinosaurland, Utah. Home to Dinosaur National Monument, Vernal is a hub for outdoor adventure and American West history situated only three hours from Salt Lake City. In addition, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, Arches, and Canyonlands national parks are all within driving distance! We think you could spend an entire month exploring the area, but the four-day itinerary below is a great place to start. 

Your Perfect 4-Day Road Trip through Gold Country, California

Your Perfect 4-Day Road Trip through Gold Country, California

Gold Country, California is one of our favorite off-the-beaten-path destinations for those who want to see a different side of the Golden State. Home of the original gold rush that forever changed a nation, this region is within striking distance of both Lake Tahoe and Sacramento, making it an achievable and creative destination for those who love history, outdoor adventure, farm-to-table food, and know how to enjoy a booming wine and beer scene.

Alamosa: An oasis in Southern Colorado

Alamosa: An oasis in Southern Colorado

We looked over at each other through our car windows and mutually nodded. It was the coldest part of night, right before the sun peaks over the horizon and begins warming everything up. I was up early on my way to Alamosa and had pulled into a parking lot at the base of The Great Sand Dunes alongside two other vehicles.

Discover 6 Unbelievable Sights in Navajoland

Discover 6 Unbelievable Sights in Navajoland

Planning a trip to the American Southwest? Make extra time for the sights, sounds and flavors of Navajoland. The Navajo Nation boasts landmarks that range from ancient to otherworldly. Navajo historical and cultural heritage remains strong, and will fascinate even the most intrepid travelers.

West Wendover, Rich in History and Beauty

West Wendover, Rich in History and Beauty

Driving into West Wendover quickly sets the stage for what kind of adventures you can expect.
Coming in from the east brings you across miles and miles of salt flats. Those driving in from the west get to appreciate the more staggered landscape. A mixture of mountains and plains act as open arms to the outdoor enthusiasts.
West Wendover sits perfectly in the middle of both.

Flagstaff is Your Hub for Adventure in Northern Arizona

Flagstaff is Your Hub for Adventure in Northern Arizona

Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet elevation, right at the base of the San Francisco Peaks on the edge of the Colorado Plateau. This unique destination provides Flagstaff with fantastic year-round weather—266 days of sun and 100 inches of snow, on average.

6 Reasons to Visit Sierra Vista, Arizona

6 Reasons to Visit Sierra Vista, Arizona

Southeastern Arizona is home to many hidden gems, and the city of Sierra Vista is one of our favorites. Located within eyesight of Mexico, this destination surprises at every turn. Here you’ll find lush nature preserves, miles of hiking and biking trails, historic ghost towns, delicious international cuisine, and so much more. Here are our top six reasons to visit Sierra Vista, Arizona. We think you’ll find even more during your stay!

Granite & Gold in Tuolumne County, California

Granite & Gold in Tuolumne County, California

Gold and granite have been enticing visitors to central California since the mid-1800’s. All around Tuolumne County there are nods to the region’s roots, from Gold Rush era experiences to fantastic museums that educate visitors on the state’s history. Meanwhile, granite continues to beckon travelers from around the world to the same area. Tourists still flock to the Yosemite area to witness the breathtaking domes, sheer walls that reach sky-high, and waterfalls that drop to the valley floors. The combination of granite and gold make Tuolumne County one of the most interesting places to visit.

Sorry, busy adventuring in North Lake Tahoe!

Sorry, busy adventuring in North Lake Tahoe!

I was so enchanted by North Lake Tahoe, that I started scheming on where I’d like to live! The water sparkles an enticing shade of blue, and the forest and mountains surrounding the lake are chock full of trails and outdoor adventures.

Fossils to Falls: Visiting Yosemite, California

“Hi, do you have the ‘Sandy the Squirrel’ card?” I asked, standing in the Yosemite National Park Visitor’s Center. See, I was on a mission. Essentially a scavenger hunt leading through Yosemite National Park and beyond. By collecting two or more trading cards, I could win a serious vacation package to return to some of the most amazing country in the USA! What I didn’t know was that this “highway” of sorts would bring me to some incredible places while visiting Yosemite.

Winding through California’s High Sierra: 11 Experiences between Yosemite and Tahoe

Winding through California’s High Sierra: 11 Experiences between Yosemite and Tahoe

Deciding on experiences in some of California’s most sought after country was a real challenge! Amber and I set parameters though, and stuck with them. We needed a mix of scenery, adventure, adrenaline, and relaxation for our California road trip–and we found it, all of it! From sunup to sundown, we explored California’s High Sierra, stretching from Yosemite National Park to Lake Tahoe. Here’s what we were able to experience and loved!

Relax and Unwind in South Lake Tahoe

Relax and Unwind in South Lake Tahoe

I had no trouble rolling into South Lake Tahoe, California and adapting to the city’s mellow pace. From the moment the valet whisked my car away at the Lake Tahoe Resort Hotel, I was in walking distance to the lake, hiking, live music, dining, and great entertainment.