The summer travel season is in full-gear and many Gilbert area residents are looking for some quick getaways that won’t break the bank. Here are some great ideas that are fun for all ages.
Universal Studios Hollywood:
This summer is a great time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood, as the park opened the new Super Nintendo World recently. The new land features the “Mario Kart™: Bowser’s Challenge” ride, as well as many interactive activities. Also new to the park is the Toadstool Café featuring delicious new food options. Once outside Super Nintendo land, there are so many other rides and attractions to visit. Memorable experiences such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the animated world of Illumination’s Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, and behind-the-scenes Studio Tour. If you aren’t sure where to stay, the Sheraton Universal Hotel is located less than a mile or an 8-minute walk from the park. The hotel recently renovated their guest rooms to pay homage to its Hollywood roots, and boasts some great onsite dining options and poolside fun. For reservations or information on staying on property, be sure to log onto sheratonuniversal.com. For more information on tickets or park hours, log onto www.UniversalStudiosHollywood.com.
Knotts Berry Farm:
If you are a thrill ride lover or love an amusement park with great summer theme, then this is the spot for you. Ghost Town Alive is running now until September 4th. This annual event gives visitors a chance to experience the Wild West through character interaction and storytelling. Also, this summer, the newly designed Fiesta Village, Knott’s Summer Nights with new live music shows, food, games, and other festivities. Knott’s Berry Farm is renovating their on-property hotel, with more than 300 guest rooms, on-site dining, and more. For more information on the hotel, visit www.knotts.com/knotts-berry-farm-hotel. For park tickets, upcoming dates, and special events, check out www.knotts.com.
San Diego:
Whether you are looking for a beach spot, theme park, professional sports game, or just some R&R, San Diego is a great spot to visit. There are a ton of things to do in this area. For starters, SeaWorld San Diego is a fun spot if you are looking for a theme park with thrill rides, and animal exhibits. Tickets are available online, for park hours and information, log onto seaworld.com/san-diego/. If you want to check out a game, San Diego Padres baseball at Petco Park is an awesome way to spend an afternoon or evening. This is a great park for all baseball lovers, even if you aren’t rooting for the home team. Tickets available online at www.mlb.com/padres/tickets. Also, be sure to visit Old Town San Diego, Gaslamp District, or Mission Bay if you are looking for some cool spots. Mission Bay has several great hotels to choose from including Paradise Point Resort & Spa, The Dana on Mission Bay, The Bahia Resort, and San Diego Mission Bay Resort. Check out their individual websites for availability and rates.
Northern Arizona:
If you would like to stay a little closer to home, there are still several top-notch travel destinations within a few hours drive from the valley. Mogollon Rim Country areas like Payson, Show Low, Alpine, and Pinetop-Lakeside. Heading north from the east valley, you can find getaways amongst several cabin rental properties, motels, and hotels. Visitors can enjoy a lot more outdoor activities in the summer such as hiking, horseback riding, biking, and fishing. If you are looking to head the other direction to spots like Prescott, Sedona, Williams, or Flagstaff, there are great options in that region as well. Outdoor activities, excellent dining options, outdoor concerts, and more. For example, the Flagstaff Downtown Business Alliance holds Movies on the Square in Heritage Square ever Saturday through September 2nd. Also, keep an eye on activities in Prescott Courthouse Square, which has events scheduled throughout the summer.
No matter where you travel, be sure to pack plenty of patience as the roadways and skyways can get crowded in the summer travel months. With just a little planning, and research, there is a great destination waiting on the other end, and fantastic memories to be made along the way.