Exploration is the essence of the human spirit. Without it, life is boring. With it, living is everything. Here are 8 travel-worthy gems that will leave a footprint on your soul. All, encompassing something special and opening doors to adventure and natural beauty.
Vermejo’s Costilla Fishing Lodge
Located in upstate New Mexico, this breathtaking Ted Turner reserve is packed with over 550,000 bison-filled acres of picturesque lands. For those seeking a secluded escape, stay at the Costilla Fishing Lodge tucked away in high country offering direct access to untamed wilderness, wildlife, and fishing lakes. Enjoy incredible views from the expansive porch, take your pole out fishing, opt for rounds of archery, go rifle shooting, journey via horseback, attempt heights at the climbing park, and indulge in meals from a dedicated chef.
Stay and Play at Snow King Resort
Snow King Resort, nestled at the base of Snow King Mountain, is Jackson, Wyoming’s only full-service year-round property. Upon checking in, let your mind check out. The property sits alongside seasonal activities like the Cowboy Coaster, a thrill-ride through the mountains. Grand Teton National Park, dubbed “Grand” for a reason, is 20 minutes from Jackson. Make your way to Jenny Lake and take the stunning family-friendly hike to Hidden Falls. In addition, the south entrance to Yellowstone National Park is a scenic hour drive from Jackson where you can visit Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring and bubbling mud pots.
Paws Up Ranch
Paws Up Ranch is known as 'the last best place.' As Montana’s premier ranch resort, you’ll get first-class service and five-star amenities. Once you dismount from horseback, step into a world of incomparable R&R amidst the most dazzling backdrop showcasing our country’s natural beauty. Nightly rates are all-inclusive, and the array of activities is tremendous. From dog sledding in winter to fly fishing in summer- the ranch offers open-ended adventure and exploration.
Sunriver Resort
Sunriver Resort is a unique getaway in the foothills of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains. The 3,000+ acre property offers everything you need to enjoy a quality getaway that will leave you rejuvenated and in love with nature. The Lodge Villa Suites are lovely and spacious, and property activities include floating down the Deschutes River, hiking, biking, and playing at the on-site waterslide-infused Aquatic Center, a mecca for kids.
The Lodge at Torrey Pines
To explore the epitome of San Diego, experience the Lodge at Torrey Pines, the most peaceful place in SoCal. Every inch of the property is dressed in timeless decor + detail, not to mention sitting among the nation's foremost municipal golf course situated atop stunning cliffs. Access the Torrey Pines State Reserve directly from the resort where you’ll take the Broken Hill Trail hike down to the sand (arguably San Diego’s best beach).
Costa Rica
To truly explore, one must venture to Costa Rica where monkeys and sloths grace the rainforest. The country is so vast; however, you’ll want to add Manuel Antonio to your bucket list. The area’s National Park is one of the most beautiful in the world and you’ll be wowed by the wildlife. Then, work your way north to Peninsula Papagayo, the utmost location for adventure travelers, wellness seekers, culinary explorers, and cultural globetrotters.
Hyatt Huntington Beach
To explore Surf City USA. Across the street from the sand, the resort has it all- beach towels, sand toys, and a village with restaurants, a grocery and more. Accommodations are spacious and scenic with dreamy views of palm trees and vitamin sea. The property is home to Slyder’s, a water playground with slides, pools, and a nighttime light show. At night, book a beach bonfire where your s’mores concierge will cater to your every marshmallow need.
Explore Colorado
Get lost in Colorado- an explorer’s playground. Start at Residence Inn Breckenridge, a central hub for nearby activities like Country Boy Mine for cave tours and gold mining. Then, make your way to Vail where you can book a lux condo via East West Hospitality. Aside from strolling through the adorable Vail villages, Zip Adventures is an absolute must-do. Finally, pit-stop in Glenwood Springs, home to the world’s largest mineral hot springs pool. In addition, Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park is America’s only mountain top amusement park.
Nadine Bubeck is a recognizedlifestyle/travel/parenting contributor for TV, print and online, and shares her family's
adventures in an authentic, relatable manner via Instagram @mamaandmyboys. She runs Take the Trip Family, a site dedicated to inspiring, encouraging and educating families to take the trip. nadinebubeck.com