Travel Archives • Her Life Adventures

The Best Virtual Vacation to Las Vegas

May 15, 2020May 15, 2020Chelsea Messina

Virtual travel is the newest way to vacation while we’re all staying home to flatten the curve during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are learning new innovative ways to navigate our world virtually to stay connected with each other. To some that may mean using FaceTime, Facebook, or WhatsApp to video chat with friends, or family. Employees are using Zoom, Skype, or Telegram to conduct virtual meetings and do business online instead of traveling. Then there’s some that are visiting Las Vegas.

Next time you’re logging on, take a virtual vacation to Las Vegas. Take a break and watch the calming fountains of the Bellagio. Get up and dance to music on Fremont Street, take a ride up in the High Roller or watch some comedy with the family! This virtual vacation to Las Vegas is yours to explore from the couch!

Traveling virtually is the newest way to vacation while we’re all staying home to flatten the curve during the COVID-19 pandemic. Next time you're logging on, take a virtual vacation to Las Vegas. Take a break and watch the calming fountains of the Bellagio. Get up and dance to music on Fremont Street, take a ride up in the High Roller or watch some comedy with the family!

Now, put your comfy clothes on, pour a glass of wine, light up a joint, whatever your pleasure… and enjoy the best virtual vacation to Las Vegas!

Plan Your Las Vegas Adventure

Grab your snacks, get your charger ready, and get ready to visit Las Vegas virtually. Below is the highlights of Las Vegas for your virtual visit to the city where anything can happen. You’re encouraged to keep exploring even more of Las Vegas along your journey. Recommended suggestions will guide you. Have a great vacation!

We are going to tour the city and see the most famous sites. We will cook French food from home, listen to music, and even speak the language. You don’t have to leave home to have a great French experience.

Virtual travel is the newest way to vacation while we’re all staying home to flatten the curve during the COVID-19 pandemic. Next time you're logging on, take a virtual vacation to Las Vegas. Take a break and watch the calming fountains of the Bellagio. Get up and dance to music on Fremont Street, take a ride up in the High Roller or watch some comedy with the family!

Virtual Las Vegas Music & Shows

Cirque du Soleil Arm Chair Performances

Inspired by the desire to stay connected during this time of social distancing, Cirque du Soleil invites its fans to a weekly 60-minute online rendezvous to enjoy some of the most awe-inspiring moments from its world-famous shows on the new digital content hub, CirqueConnect.

Shania Twain Virtual Concert

Just another reason why we love @ShaniaTwain! We hope everyone is staying safe and healthy. 💜 #OnlyYou #OnlyVegas #TogetherAtHome https://t.co/efS9prvo5G
— Vegas (@Vegas) April 1, 2020

Quarantine Mixx by DJ Pauly D

Our friend @DJPaulyD from @DraisLV is bringing Vegas to YOU! 🔥 Tune in to his Instagram Live today at 2:30PM PDT for a brand new Quarantine Mixx. 💜 https://t.co/Nb3N0LM8wd #AloneTogether #TogetherAtHome #OnlyYou #OnlyVegas pic.twitter.com/MB88Oqz04Q
— Vegas (@Vegas) April 3, 2020

Old Vegas Fremont Street Nightlife

Old Vegas Fremont Street

Vegas Virtual Nightclub

Bellagio Fountain Show

Venetian Palazzo Gondola Ride

Las Vegas Virtual Comedy

The show must go on….line! Get a front row seat to Mat Franco’s online livestream show, featuring new magic, fun surprises, interactive Q&A’s, and maybe you’ll even learn a trick you can do at home! It’s free and it’s right on Facebook LIVE!

Virtual Las Vegas Museum Tours

Mob Museum Virtual Tours

The Mob Museum has begun a three-part virtual tour series of all four floors of the Museum’s highlighted exhibitions and artifacts for you to enjoy from the comfort of your home.

The Neon Museum Virtual Tour

The Neon Museum now has a free app that you can access from your computer (no smartphone required). The virtual tour explores the history of certain iconic signs from the Las Vegas Strip, which are now held in the museum’s outdoor exhibition space, The Boneyard.

Virtual Las Vegas Health & Wellbeing

Vegas Golden Knights Workout Challenge

Fitness GOALS! The NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights are “Together At Home” with us sharing daily fitness challenge videos. #VGKFitChallenge

Chippendales Sexy In-Home Workout

Vegas Chippendales Dancers Offer Sexy In-Home Workout Routines https://t.co/SDnxwhAHzD via @TMZ
— She Who Must Not Be Named (@herlifeadventu1) April 11, 2020

Las Vegas Virtual Cooking Shows

The D Las Vegas Facebook – Ivan

A Taste of Wynn at Home with David Walzog

Virtual Vegas for Kids

Study Break with Jeff Civillico

Las Vegas’ family friendly comedian Jeff Civillico is now offering FREE Livestream Juggling Workshops every Tuesday 11am Pacific (2pm Eastern) now through April 28th on Instagram.

Download 16 Different Coloring Book Pages!

City of Las Vegas Coloring BookDownload

Lost at The Smithsonian Escape Room Game

Welcome to the Smithsonian. You’ve been anxiously awaiting this field trip for months and the day is finally here. You burst in the museum and head to the first exhibit. You are so captivated by the exhibits that you’ve lost the group. If you don’t find your classmates soon, the bus will leave you behind. Your mission is to find your class before the museum closes and the bus leaves. Navigate through the Smithsonian using the virtual tour and follow clues to find your class!

Lost at The Smithsonian Escape Room Game

#VegasGoesBlue

#VegasGoes Blue is a collaboration between Clark County, the cities of Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City and Mesquite, the Southern Nevada Health District and a number of other local agencies and hospitals. This local effort will coincide with World Health Organization’s World Healthcare Day, which this year honors nurses and midwives.

Instructions for DIY Cloth Face CoveringDownload

Pin this virtual vacation for later! Share it with your friends!

Pin2K

Tweet67

Flip

2K Shares

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

April 26, 2020April 27, 2020Chelsea Messina

The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is located in the northwest corner of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore encompasses 65 miles of sandy shoreline along Lake Michigan. The area also includes several lakes and streams, making this National Lakeshore a great summer destination.

This Sleeping Bear Dunes itinerary covers the best of what to do on the National Lakeshore, how to get there and where to stay. Add this hidden gem to your summer bucket list. | Her Life Adventures | #camping #usdestinations #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist #sleepingbear #lakemichigan #sanddunes — **Can you see the hikers?**

The fall will bring you bright vibrant orange, yellow, and red foliage making for a spectacular display of color. The winters can be brutally cold, but the snow provides great snowshoeing conditions through the dunes.

How To Get to Sleeping Bear Dunes

Before booking your trip, make sure you protect yourself and your money and purchase travel insurance! You will need to rent a car to get to Sleeping Bear Dunes. It is a 4.5 hour drive from the Detroit Metro Airport (DTW) and a 3.5 hour drive from the Flint Bishop International airport.

Where to Stay by Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

The sleeping bear dunes are 25 miles west of Traverse City, making this a great city for accommodations, night life, restaurants and wineries. Try an AirBnB and see how the locals live. If you’re looking for a closer city outside the park you can find hotels in Empire or Glen Arbor. There are several state parks, and private campgrounds in the area. Rent an RV and spend a weekend exploring. Bring a tent, or you can rent rustic cabins in some state parks as well.

“Tug on anything at all and you’ll find it connected to everything else in the universe.”
John Muir

How are the dunes created?

The sand from the steep bluffs along the lakeshore fall or slide into Lake Michigan. This provides massive amounts of sand and gravel to the National Lakeshore. Some individual landslides have dumped a million cubic yards of sand into the great lake in just one single event.

Waves cut away the bases of the bluffs, providing a continuous supply of sand and gravel to the winds blowing against them. The sand continues to get whisked up and deposited on top.

The Dune Climb in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a hike no one should miss. | herlifeadventures.blog | #camping #usdestinations #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist

More National Parks to Explore

What To Do In Sleeping Bear Dunes

The Lake Michigan coastline along Sleeping Bear Dunes and the offshore Islands are a very large component of the National Lakeshore environment. Small patches of ancient forests buried by sand eons ago continue to be exposed, as sand moves inland and attempts to bury the forests there today.

The Dune Climb

Climb the dunes or enjoy the sand. The Dune Climb offers plenty of fresh, wind-blown sand for your climbing pleasure. While the climb can be strenuous, the run back down to the picnic area is a blast!

The Dune Climb in Sleeping Bear Dunes Lakeshore in Michigan. | herlifeadventures.blog | #camping #usdestinations #sleepingbeardunes #nationallakeshore #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist #dunehike #hiking #hike

The climb up the dunes provides you a view of Glen Lake. The Dune Climb is located just about 5 miles north of Empire on M-109. You will need an annual National Park Pass or $25 for parking at this dune climb. For those who have extra time and a lot of energy, take a hike through the dunes all the way to Lake Michigan.

Lake Michigan Overlook

Safety Tips: Take lots of water and remember you’ll be walking up and down the dunes of loose sand the entire way. Hiking through the dunes can be disorienting, so be sure to keep children within sight. If hiking with a group, agree on a time and place to meet up before leaving.

Avoid getting stuck at the bottom of the dune at the Lake Michigan Overlook!

Michigan Lakeshore Beaches

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has miles of pristine beach! Cool off in the beautiful clear water of Lake Michigan with beach activities like sunbathing, reading, or making sand castles. The whole Lake Michigan lakeshore is open to swimming, but there are no lifeguards on duty, and be aware of possible Rip Currents.

The Perfect Weekend at Sleeping Bear Dunes

Visitors are advised not to go down the dune at the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive Lake Michigan Overlook. Lake levels are high – the only way out is up. Keep yourself and rescuers out of danger.

Play in the waves, swim, or just take a stroll along the beach. Lake Michigan is beautiful, but it’s more refreshing than the inland lakes, so be prepared!

Safe popular access points to the Lake Michigan Lakeshore can be found here.

Hiking Trails

You can hike over 100 miles of designated trails along the Lakeshore. There are thirteen hiking trails on the mainland, most of which are maintained during the winter for cross country skiing, and snowshoeing. Each trailhead has a parking area, and the trails will be marked with blue tipped posts.

Tip: There is limited or no service throughout the park. To keep your phone fully charged and ready to catch those amazing shots, you’ll need an extra battery charger. I take my Mophie everywhere I travel, just in case!

Lake Michigan Overlook Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore hiking trail along the water through the dunes. | herlifeadventures.blog | #camping #usdestinations #sleepingbeardunes #nationallakeshore #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is a must-do when visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 7.4 mile drive loops through the Beech-Maple forest and sand dunes. You’ll gain insight to the history of the area, learn about the different ecosystems found within the park and, best of all, spectacular overlooks along the way.

Pierce Stocking Historic Bridge in Sleeping Bear Dunes along the scenic drive. | herlifeadventures.blog | #camping #usdestinations #sleepingbeardunes #nationallakeshore #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist

Do a Lazy River Float

Cool off with a relaxing float down the Platte River on a hot summer day. This is one of the most popular summer recreational activities in the area. The river is shallow and clear, moving at a good pace, with no rapids making it perfect for all ages. You can either bring your own tube, raft, air mattress, etc. or you can rent them from local outfitters. If you need to rent during the height of the summer season, you will want to plan ahead and get reservations.

Lake Michigan Overlook Sleeping Bear Dunes stretching farther than you can see. | herlifeadventures.blog | #camping #usdestinations #sleepingbeardunes #nationallakeshore #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist

Lake Michigan Sunsets

Lake Michigan sunsets will take your breath away. Find a good dune to hike along the shoreline and watch the sun slowly set along the horizon. We were able to find our own private viewing area along one of the dune trails. Taking in the glow of the sunset in peace, with sounds of waves washing below. Glen Lake pictured below is another great sunset viewing spot.

Lake Michigan Sunset in Sleeping Bear Dunes | herlifeadventures.blog | #camping #usdestinations #sleepingbeardunes #nationallakeshore #travelhacks #travelguide #adventuretravel #roadtrip #nationalpark #nationalparkroadtrip #michigantravel #greatlakes #ustravel #summer #bucketlist

Receive your FREE

Sleeping Bear Dunes

Activity Checklist when you Subscribe!

PIN this article for when you plan your Sleeping Bear Dunes Vacation!

Pin1K

Tweet60

Flip

1K Shares

The Benefits of Using a Travel Agent

March 3, 2020April 24, 2020Chelsea Messina

I used to wonder what working with a Travel Agent would be like. Why use a Travel Agent when I can just book it myself? Turns out there are many reasons – the benefits of working with Travel Agents goes way beyond just saving you money.

They provide a service to make planning your vacation easier, relieving you of the headache that comes from having to plan, build an itinerary, find the best companies, and booking the trip. All that stress goes POOF, and you sit back like a queen, receiving the best service you’ve had! I only wish I’d discovered the benefits of Travel Agents sooner.

Here are the benefits of using a Travel Agent!

Many people still consider using a Travel Agent “old school” or “old fashioned”. However research shows that the demand for Travel Agents is starting to rise, thanks mostly to the millennials (Rock On friends!) Some people may even think Travel Agents are just for the wealthy or frequent flyers.

But they aren’t… A short weekend getaway for a couple, a family road trip down to Florida, National Park campers, or a month long luxury European trip exploring several countries. Agents are for anyone looking for guidance and security planning their trip.

I used to wonder what working with a Travel Agent would be like. Why use a Travel Agent when I can just book it myself? Turns out - there are huge benefits to using a Travel Agent to make your travel arrangements, AND it won't cost more. I only wish I'd discovered this sooner! #booking #benefits #travelagent #savemoney

Why Should You Use a Travel Agent?

Did you know there are certain days of the week that offer the best flight rates? or that oftentimes prices are negotiable? How about the best time to purchase to get the best rate? Travel Agents do. They monitor the weekly, everchanging sales and promotions and where the best deals are.

Benefits of Using a Travel Agent

Travel Agents do so much more than just booking your vacation. They will make sure you are prepared from the time you leave your home, until the time that you return.

They work directly with their partners (Delta, Marriott, Emirates, Disney, Hertz, Carnival etc) who have passed the screening of top of the line travel arrangements- so you have peace of mind that you are touring with award winning high quality tour companies and partners.

Travel Advisors do so much more than just booking your vacation. They will make sure you are prepared from the time you leave your home, until the time that you return. #travelagent #benefits #booking #savemoney

Support Your Community

When you book through a 3rd party online, you’re paying that 3rd party to book your reservations for you. You may not realize it, because the fee is hidden in “taxes & fees” which is included in your overall total.

Instead of sending that money to the 3rd party middle man, why not support your local Travel Agent instead? Keep your money in the community, and help support your local businesses.

When you book through 3rd parties online, you're paying that 3rd party to book your reservations for you. You may not realize it, because the fee is included in your overall total. Why not support your local Travel Agent instead? Keep your money in the community, and help support your local businesses.

Advisors are not just for people who don’t like to plan

My frequent flyer friends have said to me “but I enjoy researching and planning my own trip.” I completely understand this, I really do. So why can’t you? Work WITH your Travel Agent to plan your trip. Plan it, and work with an advisor to book it. Advisors specialize in the destination that you’re going to on your trip & know the most efficient planning methods, so geek out and have fun talking about your plans together.

Your Agent will help guide you, brainstorm with you, ask you questions you may not have thought of, and help you to relax and have fun planning your trip in an informative way.

PRO TIP: if you are researching and googling parts of your trip such as airfare or hotel costs, the companies put cookies into your computer. That means each time you look up the price, they know how many times and which dates. So guess what? You’ll start to see the rates go up a little bit each time.

They will Save you Money

Sneaky, right!? So remember, as you’re researching, you are unintentionally costing yourself money. I’m not saying don’t research, go nuts! Then reach out to your advisor, tell them what your thoughts are, and let your advisor make the arrangements for you. Use their expertise, resources, and connections to save you money!

Travel Agents have a partnership with the hotel, and that will often come with added perks or benefits for you as their client. Benefits that are only available to you because you worked with a Travel Agent to make your vacation reservations for you.

VIP Treatment

How do you and your special occasion stand out in Las Vegas from the hundreds of other travelocity reservations? Sorry, but you don’t. Imagine what would happen if you called your hotel before your arrival and requested VIP treatment, with a bottle of wine & bon bons waiting in your room, oh! and a room upgrade for a better view… because you don’t get to travel often, and this is a special occasion.

The hotel most likely will think you’re ridiculous and pompous, probably won’t be accommodating all of your requests, and will ask themselves “who does this person think they ARE?”

When you book with a travel agent, they CAN and WILL ask for VIP treatment for you and the others you’re traveling with. That could be a free breakfast, room upgrades for better views, and resort credits to use once you arrive towards shops, spas, restaurants, etc at the hotel.

Benefit of Travel Agents – They Save You Time

Another benefit of working with a travel agent is the communication. Instead of waiting on hold whenever you have a question or issue with your booking, you can text your agent. Or use whatever your desired method of communication – text, e-mail, phone, facetime etc, your agent will accommodate you.

One of the benefits of working with a travel agent is the communication. Instead of waiting on hold whenever you have a question or issue with your booking, you can text your agent.

Experience Personal Service

Have the comfort of knowing you can reach your agent personally, instead of waiting on the phone for hours for “the next available representative that will be with you shortly.” Your agent will provide a much more personal, speedier assistance with your questions & concerns regarding your vacation.

Travel Agents Understand How Travel Insurance Works

Going on vacation is expensive, having an emergency on vacation is even MORE expensive. What if you are traveling without your children, then your child gets sick or hurt while you’re in Spain? Or how about just as you’re boarding your flight, your boss calls to tell you the big meeting you’ve been preparing for months has been changed to tomorrow instead of next week?

Do you understand your travel insurance policy? Will it cover your emergency trip cancellation? Did you even purchase travel insurance?! What happens now?!

The disadvantage of not having travel insurance, is that all the cancellation fees, medical emergency costs, new booking arrangements, or transfer fees are paid by Y-O-U. I always insure my trips when I travel because you never know what could happen. Just ask my friend Kaytee about that one time in Thailand…

Comfort in Knowing You’re Covered

Calling the insurance company is a pain in the you know what. When you book with a travel agent, you can call them and get. The benefit of Travel Agents is that they know what insurance policy is best for your trip. They will recommend the best option for you, and insure your trip, giving you the comfort of knowing if any emergencies came up, you’re covered.

Is insurance a waste of money if you don’t use it? Yes and no. I don’t know about you – but I would much rather have insurance for $100, that I don’t use. Instead of paying $10,000 for the emergency that I didn’t purchase insurance on. I’m prone to getting ill on trips, so having insurance gives me security, knowing that worst case scenario – I don’t have to pay all the expenses that come with the illness.

**For international travelers coming to the U.S. I would HIGHLY recommend purchasing travelers insurance. Our medical care is extremely expensive, and even a quick trip to the emergency room is enough to drown you in debt. **

Why should you use a Travel Agent? Well, there are huge benefits to using a Travel Agent instead of booking the trip yourself, PLUS it won't cost you more.

Another benefit of Travel Agents is that they provide excellent quality service and dedication to highest standards. They LOVE traveling, it’s their passion, it’s not just “a job”. They are extremely knowledgeable with how the travel industry operates, opening doors for you than if you were to book on your own.

Have you worked with a Travel Agent before? What did you like & dislike about the experience?

Please Share or Pin this post if you enjoyed it 🙂

You May Also Enjoy

Pin1K

Share28

Flip

1K Shares

The Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs

February 17, 2020March 19, 2020Chelsea Messina

Located just over an hour south of Denver is Colorado Springs. This beautiful area offers sunny skies and crisp mountain air all year round. Filled with outdoor activities, beautiful landscapes, and adventure this area is perfect for a weekend trip. In January Logan and I visited Colorado Springs for a weekend and celebrated our anniversary.

Here are some of the highlights and must see spots we found during our Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs!

Everything you need to know for the Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs, USA. Look no further - I cover where to stay, hikes, hidden gems, and the best stops for your weekend in Colorado!

How to Get There

Fly into Denver (DEN) International Airport & drive a rental car 1.5 hours south to Colorado Springs. You can also fly into the Colorado Springs airport (COS), putting you right in the city. If you choose to do this you can either rent a car, or take public transportation.

**CLICK HERE FOR FLIGHT RATES TO DENVER**

**CLICK HERE FOR FLIGHT RATES TO COLORADO SPRINGS**

Rent a Car

From Denver Airport drive 1.5 hours south down highway 25 towards Colorado Springs. During our weekend in Colorado Springs we rented a car to have the freedom and flexibility to move at our own pace.

CLICK HERE to Save 10% on a Weekend or Weekly Car Rental at Thrifty! >>>>Use code 101349

CLICK HERE to Save on Car Rentals with Thrifty’s Veterans Advantage Program

Where to Stay in Colorado Springs

Downtown Colorado Springs: Downtown is buzzing with boutiques, parks, eateries, and a lively nightlife scene. Drink at the local breweries, and wine bars, then dance the night away at a club or concert! The area is a designated creative district. Walk around the city and you’ll find sculptures dotting its streets.

West Colorado Springs: This residential area is quiet and laid back. You’ll be close to nature to enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking and rock climbing. West Colorado Springs is also home to both the Garden of the Gods and the Red Rock Canyon Open Space.

Manitou Springs: A great resort area to stay for the perfect weekend in Colorado Springs. Just outside of the city limits, the town is known for its incredible panoramic views of Pikes Peak. You’ll find The Manitou Cliff Dwellings, a group of reassembled ancient cliff structures and the entrance to Pike Peaks Highway here. Hike up a steep slope on the Manitou Incline Trail or shop on Manitou Avenue, home to art galleries and specialty boutiques.

Camping: Spend some quality time in the great outdoors at one of the many Colorado Springs campgrounds. You’ll find rustic walk on sites, fully equipped RV sites, and even cabins!

Pikes Peak

A new summit complex area began being built in late 2019. Construction of the summit will continue into 2020, with an estimated completion by later this year. Please be aware of your surroundings when you reach the top, as it is considered an active construction site. There are more details about the construction status here. Opening is scheduled for fall 2020.

There are four main ways to explore Pikes Peak and reach the summit:

Drive Your Car

Experience the beauty of the mountain as you ascend up the scenic Pikes Peak Highway. There is a $15 per person entry fee to access the road that winds its way up the mountain. **Currently Pikes Peak Summit is considered an active construction zone**

Save 10% on a Weekend or Weekly Car Rental at Thrifty! >>Use code 101349

Private & Group Tours

If you’re short on time and want to make the most out of your weekend in Colorado Springs you can find private and group tours HERE that will take you to the summit of Pikes Peak as well.

$1 Trial to Start Traveling & Saving Like a Travel Agent!

For The Really Adventurous

For the really adventurous visitors, try biking or hiking to the peak. There are tour companies that will drive you to the top and provide a guided bike tour down the mountain.

Go hiking on one of the many trails in the Pikes Peak area. If you plan on hiking your way to the top – Barr Trail is the most popular route to reach the summit. No matter which method you choose you will not be disappointed with Pikes Peak – “America’s Mountain” is stunning.

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a 1,474-acre city park in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Here, exposed layers of sedimentary rock have been turned upward at the base of Pikes Peak. Deep canyons filled with gorgeous colored rocks in gold, salmon and other colors.

The Red Rock Canyon Open Space Park was privately owned until 2003, when it was bought by the City of Colorado Springs as open space. The land was divided into five separate tracts, and each track has specific restrictions as to how it can be utilized.

Location

Red Rock Canyon Open Space is located along Highway 24.

3550 W High St, Colorado Springs, CO 80904

This striking park in Colorado Springs is DRONE and DOG FRIENDLY!! Other activities in the park include a campground, hiking trails, horse trails, a bike park, mountain bike trails, a large fenced in dog park, and more!

Trails

Download printable trail map
Contemplative Trail
Sand Canyon Trail
Mesa/Greenlee Trail loop
Roundup Trail
Upper and Lower dog loops (off-leash dog areas)
Quarry Trail
Hogback Trail/Lion Loop

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Paint Mines Interpretive Park is Colorado’s BEST KEPT SECRET. Just under an hour drive east of Colorado Springs will take you to Colorado’s most unique open space. The Paint Mines are given their name for their beautiful, bright colorful clays. The clay was once collected by American Indians to make paint in various colors.

Paint Mines Interpretive Park, Colorado Springs, USA

The bright rainbow colored bands get their colors from oxidized iron compounds. The Paint Mines Interpretive Park contains evidence of human life from as far back as 9,000 years ago! The parks geological formations are spires and hoodoos, formed through various erosive actions. Creating gullies and layers of colored clay you see along the hike.

Learn more with my post about the Paint Mines Park HERE!

Garden of the Gods

Garden of the Gods Park is a registered National Landmark of 1,300 acres of stunning red sandstone formations. The park is free to enter, making this a budget friendly activity! Make sure to bring your camera, you’re going to want pictures for this stunner of a park.

You won’t want to miss this gem during your perfect weekend in Colorado Springs! There are 15 miles of hiking trails spread throughout the Garden of the Gods Park. The park is family friendly with difficulty levels that vary from easy, paved paths to scrambling. There are trails for all everybody. Stop at the Visitor Center and pick up a free trail map. While you’re there you can ask a volunteer what trails they suggest for your skill level.

The Balance Stone in Garden of the Gods park, Colorado Springs, USA

Park Information

Length: ½ mile – 4 miles depending on trail

Duration: 20 minutes – 4 hours depending on trail

Trail Difficulty: easy to moderate depending on trail

Scenery: gorgeous views of the unique rock formations found in Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak – America’s Mountain

Recommended for: Hikers, Dogs, Horses, Mountain Biking

Cost: Free

The park is open year round May 1 – Oct 31 5am – 11pm
Nov 1 – Apr 30 5am – 9pm

Join a small group tour that takes you to both the Garden of the Gods AND Pikes Peak. If you’re looking to sit back and relax, take a full day tour and enjoy those PLUS a city tour.

Garden of the Gods ; The Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs

Be sure to check out the Seven Falls and Cave of the Winds Park if you have time!

~Pin This Post for Later!~

Everything you must know before visiting Colorado Springs in Colorado, USA. Hikes, hidden gems, and the best stops for your road trip. | Her Life Adventures | #coloradosprings #nationalpark #usadestinations #colorado #hikes #thingstodo #roadtrip #lodging #itinerary #guide

You Might Also Enjoy

The Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs

Everything you need to know for the Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs, USA. Look no further – I cover where to stay, hikes, hidden gems, and the best stops for your weekend in Colorado!Read more The Perfect Weekend in Colorado Springs

by Chelsea Messina February 17, 2020March 19, 2020

Paint Mines Interpretive Park

Colorado’s hidden gem, The Paint Mines Interpretive Park is located just outside of Colorado Springs. This hidden gem of rainbow hoo doos & spire formations is a must see.Read more Paint Mines Interpretive Park

by Chelsea Messina February 7, 2020February 7, 2020

The Perfect Weekend in Denver

The Perfect Weekend in Denver takes you through the city for some food and fun and then into the Rocky Mountain National Park. All in one weekend!Read more The Perfect Weekend in Denver

by Chelsea Messina December 12, 2017June 7, 2019

Pin2K

Share37

Flip

2K Shares

HAPPY NATIONAL PLAN A VACATION DAY!

January 29, 2020January 29, 2020Chelsea Messina

It’s National Plan a Vacation Day!

Today is National Plan a Vacation Day! and according to research travel advisors save 3.5 hours in planning time and over $400 per trip on average for their clients. Not only that, but Travel advisors help you avoid booking mistakes and improve your travel experience with perks and insider access.

Read more or check out ChelseaMessina.Inteletravel.com for the best tools and the perfect place to inquire about your bucket list destination vacation!

Book now with a Travel Advisor!

Uniworld River Cruise Deals & Promotions
It's "National Plan a Vacation Day"! Book now with your travel advisor Today is National Plan a Vacation Day, and according to our research travel advisors save 3.5 hours in planning time and over $400 per trip on average.

For More HOT Travel Deals CLICK HERE!

Pin3

Share26

Flip

29 Shares