The Pacific Northwest is a region generally considered to encompass the states of Washington, Oregon, Idaho and even British Columbia, Canada. The area is awe-inspiring with the splendor of the North Cascades tall evergreen forests, the majestic snow-capped Rocky & Olympic Mountains and beautifully scenic views of lush, green landscapes that surround this region which is bounded by the Pacific Ocean.

A good place to start your scenic road trip is in Seattle, Washington, host of the 1962 World’s Fair. There are many attractions to visit that are well worthwhile. Take in the views of Elliot Bay and the Olympic Mountains from the Seattle waterfront or visit the Olympic Sculpture Park. The Seattle Center offers a spectacular view from the observation deck of the Space Needle. Enjoy a ferry-ride and explore Bainbridge Island, San Juan Islands, Whidbey Island or visit the quaint Victorian seaport town of Port Townsend with its wonderful marinas, shops, art galleries and Maritime Center.

If time allows, you’ll want to visit famous Butchart Gardens in Victoria, BC. There are 55 acres of lush gardens, historic homes to visit, boutiques, museums and art galleries to see. It is a wonderfully quaint place to visit for a day.

While the Seattle area offers boundless opportunities for whale watching, white water rafting, hiking, kayaking, biking and more, there are also mountains to be explored. Heading northwest from Seattle, explore Snoqualmie Falls, home of a magnificent 270 foot waterfall and the Northwest Railway Museum. You’ll not want to miss a trip to a most wonderful little place called Leavenworth, a beautiful and unique Bavarian-styled village in an Alpine setting with a European town square! In the summer you can enjoy arts and craft shows, concerts, marching bands, strolling musicians and more. There is a Nutcracker Museum that showcases over 5000 nutcrackers and you can enjoy wonderful German-style cuisine! Also be sure to explore Mt. Rainier National Park with elevation of 14,411 feet and encompassed by the Wenatchee National Forest. You may also wish to take a side trip to the Gingko Petrified Forest State Park, one of the most unusual fossil forests in the world and a national landmark. There is a wealth of places to explore in the state of Washington that will make for a wonderful RV trip and leave you with lasting memories for a lifetime! To read more about the Washington region, its attractions and events, go to Visit Seattle website.

The Ozark Mountains located in northern Arkansas and southwest Missouri provide an array of outdoor experiences full of natural wonders amid awe-inspiring scenery replete with stunning views of rugged mountain ranges, sparkling rivers, lakes and waterfalls, caves, lush green forests and more. There are hundreds of miles to explore and enjoy.

The Ozark Mountains is a special place with many activities and attractions that the whole family can enjoy from world class trout fishing, water skiing, hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, caving, kayaking, scenic drives, swimming or golfing on pristine courses to wildlife viewing and photography.

For those who enjoy a more leisurely pace, there are mountain villages to explore and shop and museums such as the Ozark Center State Park in Mountain View, AR, the folk music capital of the world, where history, mountain crafts and culture are preserved and come to life. Visit the state parks where you can enjoy the music festivals, craft fairs, pottery-making or blacksmithing activities. There are also dinner-music theaters that offer excellent entertainment and dining. For more information, visit Ozark Folk Center website.

If your travels take you to North Arkansas, then you’ll not want to miss the spectacular living cave-the Blanchard Spring Caverns located deep in the Arkansas Ozark National Forest. You’ll be amazed at the natural spring that helps form Mirror Lake. There are 3 different cave tours that one can choose from to explore and there are educational programs, hiking trails, picnicking, wildlife and many more activities for the young at heart.

The Ozarks provide a uniquely special experience that you will treasure for a lifetime. There are national and state park that provide ample campground facilities as well as numerous private campgrounds that offer quality conveniences and beautiful recreation areas. For additional information, visit these websites: OzarkGateway.com and Ozark Mount Region State Park Campgrounds.

Yellowstone National Park is one of the most visited and cherished Western National Parks and is one of America’s greatest monuments as a living history museum. This unspoiled, natural majestic vacation destination is dense with native wildlife, acres of wilderness and mountain trails to explore. For the outdoor enthusiast, there are scenic views of the Teton Mountain Range, Old Faithful, Yellowstone Lake, Lower Falls, incredible wildlife viewing, white water rafting down the Snake River Canyon, mountain climbing, secluded hiking trails, hunting, fishing, mountain biking and more. Open year round, this area offers much to see and do and is an experience one won’t soon forget!

Grand Teton National Park is located in northwestern Wyoming, just south of Yellowstone National Park and is awesome in splendor with dramatic jagged peaks that tower more than 12,000 feet high, several offering a ‘cathedral’ appearance. Here one can enjoy prime photography opportunities of forests, mountain peaks and streams cascading down the mountain sides, wildlife and more. Opportunities for hiking, kayaking camping and boating also abound. The Rockefeller Parkway connects the Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park which provides great driving access between parks.

The city of Jackson, just north of the Grand Teton National Park, is a great place to visit and taking in a day of shopping. The Jackson Hole area is best known for its wonderful scenery, abundant wildlife, western boardwalks, restaurants and more. You may also want to visit Jackson Lake or the National Elk Refuge while there. Grand Teton and Jackson Hole offer numerous RV places to park and camp which provide ample facilities for the RV camper. These areas in Wyoming offer an excellent western vacation and will provide memories to last a lifetime! Be sure to visit http://www.wyomingtourism.org for more information.

For more information, visit the Wyoming Tourism website.

In a recent newsletter, we provided three different locations within Oklahoma and Arkansas area where families can enjoy the great outdoors on their RV road trip and yet are easy on the budget. With the current flux of gas prices, we at RV Vacation Rentals understand that every penny counts and families may not want to travel as far away as in previous years. There are many wonderful and relaxing places where you can enjoy your family vacation on only a tank full of gas. As a result, we are again this month high lighting destinations within easy reach of home.

Lake Murray State Park, seven miles from Ardmore, is southern Oklahoma's largest and most beautiful state park that encompasses over 12,000 acres of lake, forests and rolling hills. It is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, a wide variety of water sports, hiking, wildlife viewing, swimming, biking, paddle boating, golfing, tennis, baseball, horseback riding, ATV riding and more. This park offers over 312 RV sites where families can enjoy the great outdoors and create new family memories.

Lake Texoma is southwest Oklahoma's second largest lake and most popular family destination. It features an 88,000 acre lake that is noted for its premier striped bass fishing and water sports in the nation. Lake Texoma State Park also offers swimming, camping, hiking, hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities. The park also features the Two Rivers Nature Center. Lake Texoma, an 88,000-acre water playground provides some of the best fishing in the nation. The most popular species is the striped bass. Lake Texoma is also known for an abundance of crappie, white bass, black bass, various catfish, and sunfish.

Lake Wister State Park is located in southeast Oklahoma near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border and is situated near the beautiful Ouachita National Forest and Wildlife Management Area and is a popular destination for people of all ages. This park is a haven for families that enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking trails, camping, boating, water skiing, biking, wildlife watching and more. Spread out along the 7300 acres of Lake Wister, there are nice RV camp sites which offer a great lake view. An additional bonus is that the park also offers a swimming beach, nature center, play grounds, water-park, volley ball court and mini golf course that kids can enjoy.

For more information on these and other area lakes, parks, and attractions, visit travelok.com.

Do current gas prices have you fearful of overspending your vacation budget? There’s no need to worry or eliminate your vacation plans. There are plenty of locations around the Arkansas-Oklahoma areas that provide natural beauty and a diversity of outdoor activities – and all within reasonable proximity that will take no more than a tank full of gas. Here are a few places that offer excellent RV camping opportunities that the whole family will enjoy and that will provide a memorable, yet affordable RV vacation experience.

K River Campground is located in the Kiamichi Mountains in Southeast Oklahoma. This RV campground contains wonderful natural scenery with rivers, mountains and lakes. This ideal setting offers gold panning, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the Kiamichi River and allows you to get back to nature. Enjoy bird watching, hiking or trail rides. Whatever your pleasure, you are sure to find it here! Visit kriver.com for more information.

Osage Hills State Park is located west of Bartlesville in Northeast Oklahoma and is a prime example of natural beauty with over 1100 acres of lust forests, scenic serene waters and rocky bluffs. Activities include hiking along trails where wild turkey and white tailed deer can be viewed, tennis, fishing, swimming and more! You’ll find this a quiet, serene and beautiful place to spend quality time with your family. Be sure to check out travelok.com for more on this destination and others within Oklahoma.

Natural Falls State Park is located near the Oklahoma/Arkansas state borders six miles west of Siloam Springs. This park provided the ideal place for filming ‘Where the Red Fern Grows” in 1974 and features a 77 foot waterfall that cascades through rock formations ending in a narrow shaped valley. There are two observation decks-one above the falls and one at the foot of the falls-that allow visitors to experience both vantage points. There are 4 ½ miles of natural hiking trails through dense forest with plenty of animal and plant life. Activities include fishing, biking, wildlife viewing and more. For more information, visit travelok.com.

Greenleaf State Park is nestled in the hills of eastern Oklahoma three miles north of Braggs and offers spectacular natural scenery with lakes, hills and the best hiking trails. In fact, this park has been named ‘Park of the Year’ numerous times not only because of its beauty but because it has so much to offer. Activities at this wonderful location include fishing, boating, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, wildlife viewing, swimming, nature center, paddle boat rides and an 18 miniature golf course. Click here for more information on this great park!

For more information on these and other area lakes, parks, and attractions, visit travelok.com.

Located in the heart of the coastal region, Savannah is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. A romantic and historic city of rare and natural beauty lined with cobblestone streets, oak shaded streets, beautiful parks and manicured gardens replete with silvery Spanish moss makes this city a perfect vacation destination for all ages. In fact, this city has been voted one of the top 10 vacation destinations in America and boasts amazing architecture, culture and sightseeing opportunities. Founded in 1733 as the colonial capital of Georgia the city has become the largest natural historic landmark district in the country.

Rich in history, culture and architecture, Savannah offers much to explore such as ante bellum mansions, tours of gorgeous southern-style homes, carriage rides, riverboat cruises, historic river street, ghost tours, art galleries, museums, antique stores, trendy boutiques, exquisite southern cuisine dining experiences and much, much more. Whether you want a romantic retreat or a vibrant fun-filled family vacation you can find it in Savannah.

Savannah enjoys a temperate climate that makes outdoor activities possible year-round. The average minimum temperature is 56 degrees, and the average maximum temperature is 70. In fact, January boasts an average temperature of 59 degrees, which makes it ideal for winter travel.

Savannah also offers visitors unique tours and special interests to enjoy such as the Mighty Eighth Air Force Heritage Museum in Pooler and the Ralph Mark Gilbert Civil Rights Museum in downtown Savannah. One can visit stately 19th century mansions, Ships of the Sea maritime museum, world class golf courses, concerts, live theatre, the Tybee Island Light Station & Tybee Museum, famous Civil War landmarks and forts of the Revolutionary & Civil War eras. Additionally, surrounded by water, this area offers incredible water sport opportunities, dolphin tours and more. For more information on Savannah, visit their website, Savannah.com.

There are various places in Savannah for RV camping such as the Savannah Oaks RV Resort located on the Ogeechee River, 20 minutes from downtown Savannah. Another RV facility is the Rivergate RV Park nestled on 200 acres of old country scenery and located only 8 minutes from downtown Savannah.

There’s magic in the air! It’s hard to believe Christmas is just around the corner! Before the winter cold arrives, why not consider an early December RV trip to Branson, Missouri?  Renowned for its live music shows and theaters, award winning theme park - Silver Dollar City, numerous museums and attractions, superb shopping and dining venues, lakes, championship golf courses and more, Branson has always had much to offer in the way of wholesome family entertainment at affordable prices.

Nestled in the beautiful Ozark Mountains and surrounded by natural beauty, which offers an array of outdoor recreation venues, family attractions and events have made Branson a popular spring, summer and fall tourist destination of fun and entertainment for over 50 years.  But did you know that this city has also earned national recognition as one of the top 10 Christmas destinations in America? And has been featured by Good Morning America as one of the top 5 holiday events in the country?

In fact, this year marks the 23rd season of fabulous light displays, parades and over 60 Ozark Mountain Christmas Shows with outstanding performers such as Andy Williams, The Osmonds, The Oak Ridge Boys, Mel Tillis, Johnny Mathis, Garth Brooks, The Lennon Sisters, Gatlin Brothers, Daniel O’Donnell and more!

Branson offers its Old Time Christmas event from November 4th through December 30th. You won’t want to miss the fantastic light display of Christmas on Main Street. It is one of the best light and tree shows in the nation!  Branson’s Festival of Lights is illuminated with more than 175 light displays with more than 100,000 lights and animation, which makes it the number one drive-thru attraction.   Shepherd of the Hills Trail of Lights is also an awe-inspiring site to see. Additionally, Silver Dollar City will host a musical show - A Dickens' Christmas Carol. This city is also a shopper’s paradise for finding just the right gifts for Christmas.

It's no wonder that the lights, yuletide mix of world-class entertainment, and holiday spirit provide a truly impressive Christmas vacation experience for the whole family!  You can check out attractions, specials and more at ExploreBranson.com. There are a multitude of RV parks in which to park your RV while you experience the sights and sounds of this city. Why not make Branson your family RV destination this month and experience a wonderful old fashioned Christmas your whole family will enjoy? With an RV rental from RV Vacation Rentals, we can help your dreams come true this Christmas season!

Kiamichi Country in southeast Oklahoma is our featured destination this month. There is no reason to travel to other states to enjoy spectacular scenery when this part of Oklahoma offers such beautiful landscapes, mountains, rivers and pine forests such as the Ouachita National Forest. Southeast Oklahoma offers 26 sparkling pristine lakes, numerous rivers, streams and waterfalls; 7 glorious mountain ranges, cypress lined bayous, picturesque towns, 1 million acres of wildlife and 10 state parks such as Beavers Bend, Broken Bow, Robbers Cave, Heavener Runestone State Park and more. It is no wonder, then, that Oklahoma Tourism lists it as one of the top six destinations in the state and why so many people choose this wonderful destination to visit and re-visit each year. This region offers numerous outdoor activities such as water sports, mountain climbing and biking, hunting, horseback riding, fishing and more.

Additionally, fall is one of the best times of the year to visit due to the beautiful foliage tour which not only offers a gorgeous array of fall colors to enjoy, but is also a very popular hunter’s paradise, teeming with deer, turkey and other wildlife.  Be sure to visit the Kiamichi Country website for more information on what this region has to offer.

Robbers Cave State Park is one of the most popular destinations in this region and is a great place for family fun offering 12 miles of hiking trails, 50 miles of horseback trails, sandstone cliffs which are great for rock climbing, paddle boats, canoes, swimming, cave exploring, wildlife, bird watching, camping, a nature center and much more.  Located in the beautiful San Bois Mountains just 5 miles north of Wilburton, Robbers Cave State Park derives its name from famous outlaws of the West- Jesse James and Belle Starrwhich legend indicates was a hideout for the notorious villains due to ravines, bluffs, caves and rock formations in the area.  The area is not only beautiful with rugged terrain, breathtaking foliage and pine forests, but also rich in historic sites as well. For more information on this beautiful state park area, visit TravelOK.com.

During your visit to this region, be sure to take time to visit Talimena State Park which marks the entrance to Talimena Scenic Byway. Enjoy this road trip which offers spectacular fall foliage views and incredible scenery as you wind around this peaceful 54 mile route along Winding Stair, Rich and Ouachita Mountains and which is listed as the crown jewel of the region.

While in the area you might want to visit Heavener Runestone Park which is located at the edge of the Ouachita Mountains atop Poteau Mountain.  Heavener Runestone, a unique and cultural artifact is the centerpiece of the park and is believed that this carved stone was left by the Vikings in the 11th century. For more history and information, check out ExploreSouthernHistory.com.

At the end of the Talimena Scenic Byway you won’t want to miss the panoramic scenery, majestic view of the Ouachita Mountains, crisp mountain air and natural beauty that surrounds Queen Wilhelmina State Park. This park sits atop the nearly 27,000’ tall Rich Mountain in Mena, Arkansas where the clouds kiss the landscape.  The park offers trails, miniature railroad and golf, zoo and more.  With 41 campsites it also is a great place to camp with your RV. Check out TalimenaScenicDrive.com for more information.

If time allows, you may want to head further south to Beavers Bend State Park in the Ouachita National Forest.  Beavers Bend is one of the most popular parks in the region with picturesque streams, rivers, lakes and outstanding mountain views.  It provides wonderful outdoor recreation and the fall foliage in this area is truly spectacular.  You can choose to enjoy watching the eagles, visiting the nature center, hiking, fishing or attending the Beavers Bend Folk Festivalthat is held the weekend of November 12-14th.  The fall festival offers turn of the century craft demonstrations, folk music, petting zoo and more.   The festival offers family fun and entertainment.  Be sure to visit Beavers Bend website for more details about the fall festival. You can also camp at this state park with your RV since the park has over 110 RV sites. For more detailed information, visit McCurtainCountyGetaways.com .

With so many great places in Oklahoma why don’t you discover for yourself the natural beauty, and great adventure that await you?  Now is the perfect time to make your fall plans whether for a weekend getaway, a fall vacation or to enjoy some great hunting!  With gas prices declining and lower season RV rates and specials, there’s never a greater time than now to make your memories of a lifetime!

Fall is the most perfect time of year to rent an RV and travel to Colorado Springs! This is an ideal vacation destination in the heart of the majestic Rocky Mountains where the air is pure, skies are blue, temperatures cool and the aspen trees offer a beautiful array of color. Named by Outdoors Magazine as "America’s Best City", this beautiful city is excitingly vibrant with plenty of attractions that will make your fall vacation memorable.

Surrounded by natural beauty, the city sits at the foot of one of America’s most famous landmarks - Pikes Peak - which inspired the national song "America the Beautiful". Naturally, one will want to view this glorious site-whether by driving to the top or taking the cog railway. Another natural wonder you won’t want to miss while here is one of the nation’s most famous parks - the Garden of the Gods - which is nestled in the foothills just west of the city. These geological red sandstone wonders are truly amazing and worth seeing! You can hike, take tours or horseback rides and get some fantastic panoramic photos! The views are truly spectacular!

If you like cave tours, then you’re in for a treat! Cave of the Winds is a true adventure with limestone corridors, geological wonders such as stalactites and other bizarre natural formations. The temperature inside is a cool 54 degrees and contains no natural light. You might want to bring a sweater or light jacket for this tour.

If you are traveling with children, you might want to take them to see Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. This is the only zoo in the US that truly resides on the side of a mountain! Here you can not only view the beautiful mountain scenery but hand feed the giraffes too! See the Snow Leopard or Amur Tiger or let the kids take a pony ride. This will be a treat the whole family will enjoy.

If you love waterfalls then be sure and take a trip to Seven Falls, located in Box Canyon. Here you can climb the stairs or take a 14 story elevator up through solid rock to the Eagle’s Nest. There you will see a 181 foot waterfall cascading down ‘seven steps’ of granite walls. While here take a hike to “Inspiration Point”. The natural beauty and views are unbelievable.

Just north of Colorado Springs on Interstate 25 at the base of the mountains the US Air Force Academy is not only home to future Air Force officers but also the third most popular tourist attraction in Colorado with over a million visitors a year! At the north gate you can catch a glimpse of a B-52 bomber. Once on campus, the A-frame Cadet Cathedral with 17 magnificent spires reaching 150 feet into the sky is a spectacular site to see. The visitor’s center will provide a movie history of US Air Force Academy and is full of exhibits.

While visiting Colorado Springs there are museums to enjoy as well. Explore an authentic Ghost Town Museum, a fun and historic 1800’s ‘boomtown’ of the “wild west” where you can visit a black smith’s shop, general store, livery stable and more. You might also want to visit the Pioneer Museum which is located downtown in a beautifully restored 1903 County Courthouse. A visit to the Outlaws & Lawmen Jail Museum will allow you to experience the life of an outlaw as you step into a cell of yester-year. At the Western Museum of Mining and Industry you can encounter what it was like in the Gold Rush days. “Focus on the Family“ is also located here and offers free entertainment for children, a play area with a 3 story slide, an ice cream parlor, bookstore and visitor center. Obviously, there are a lot of things to do and see in this fantastic city.

Between Pikes Peak and Garden of the Gods, is Manitou Springs which derives its name from the 11 mineral springs that are fed by the snows of Pikes Peak. It is home to Manitou Cliff Dwellings & Museum with pre-historic ruins, artifacts and more. Many artists reside here and many fine art galleries line the avenues of this town and provide a shopper’s haven for ceramics, paintings, pottery & glass ware and more.

No Colorado vacation would be complete without a side trip to Cannon City to visit the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park. This bridge is the world’s highest suspension bridge hanging 956 feet high and spans a quarter of a mile across the canyon and is considered a “world wonder”. This area offers breath taking views of an enormous canyon, the world’s largest single span aerial tram, attractions, burro rides, trail rides, incline railway, white water rafting, train excursions, jeep tours and many more attractions.

If you are interested in riding an old steam narrow gauge locomotive, gold rush history, Victorian homes or gaming, then you might want to visit Cripple Creek. Here you can visit the world’s greatest gold camp, the Mollie Kathleen Mine, Old Homestead Museum, Jail Museum, the Cripple Creek-Victor Railroad, Butte Opera & Theatre, shopping, dining, casinos and more.

Wherever your vacation plans take you in Colorado, you’ll be sure that Colorado Springs & the Pike Peak Region will make memories of a lifetime for you and your family and offer plenty of outdoor adventure! Be sure to visit visitcos.com for more visitor information, history, travel guides and RV park locations.

Visit the allure of Southwest Colorado! With winter not too far off, now is the time to plan and enjoy your fall get away in some of the most spectacular spots in the US. View the grand vistas of the Rocky Mountains, explore ancient Pueblo ruins, ghost towns and abandoned mines; take a train ride on a narrow gauge railroad and savor the Western frontier spirit. The beauty is spectacular and the weather is perfect!

As you begin your tour of this fantastic area, you may wish to start with Mesa Verde National Park . Perched high in Southwest Colorado, Mesa Verde is world renowned and centrally located on one of the National Scenic Byways — The San Juan Skyway. This park is home to hundreds of Pueblo cliff dwellings and numerous archaeological sites which have been well preserved for over 700 years. This area is richly steeped in history and is full of outdoor adventure making it one of the most premier vacation destinations in America. Go to visitmesaverde.com for more information.

Sixty five miles away from Mesa Verde, near the four corners junction with New Mexico, Arizona and Utah is the city of Durango. Nestled between the red sandstone bluffs in the Animas River Valley and the San Juan and Needles mountains at an elevation of 6,612 feet, this city is a popular tourist destination and is the largest town in southwest Colorado.  It is a wonderful place to savor the frontier spirit and enjoy the diverse activities it has to offer such as art galleries, theaters, museums, fishing, rafting, mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding and shopping. It also offers a unique opportunity to experience the days of yesteryear taking a train ride on the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Established in 1881, this popular tourist attraction offers an authentic steam powered, coal-fired, ride through the mountains between Durango and Silverton. This historic railway adventure is ranked one of the ‘top 10 scenic railroads in the world.’ This train operates May-October and has a 2 hour and 15 minute layover in Silverton where one can use the time to explore this quaint mining town, take a mine tour, shop or grab a meal.  For more information, visit durango.org website.

Fifty miles to the west of Durango in the heart of high country, at an elevation of 9,318 feet, is the town of Silverton.  Designated as a National Historic Landmark, this old mining town, established in 1874 allows one to step back in the time and relive the Wild West days with Silverton’s gunfighters and old Stage Coach Rides.  Take an underground gold mine tour of the Old Hundred Gold Mine or visitand Mayflower Gold Mill.  Enjoy a unique visit to the Mining Heritage Center which contains the original town jail complete with 4 block cell, museum, log boarding house, vintage mining artifacts and much more.  Visit the Christ of the Mines Shrine which sits atop Anvil Mountain or enjoy eclectic shopping for antiques, art works, pottery, jewelry, clothing and more.  For more information on this fascinating location check out silvertoncolorado.com.

From Silverton take a 45 minute drive over the “million dollar highway”, listed as one of the “most beautiful drives in America”, and enjoy panoramic vistas and stunning beauty as you travel to Ouray. Nicknamed the "Switzerland of America”, Ouray is nestled in the heart of the Rockies at an elevation of 7,792 ft and offers superlative beauty such as no other town can boast.  View the majestic, rugged mountain peaks, waterfalls, natural mineral hot springs, golden aspens, wild flowers and conifer forests.  Alive with color and beauty, no wonder it is described as the "Gem of the Rockies"!  You’ll decidedly want to bring your camera and make your own photo memories of this wonderful area and enjoy all the outdoor wonders this area has to offer including the inspiring Box Cannon Falls. You can experience more adventure by taking a horseback trail ride or jeep trail ride. For more detailed information on activities and events, visit ouraycolorado.com.

If time allows, a visit to Telluride will be well worth your time. Nestled in one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in Colorado, and boasting a beautiful alpine setting, Telluride is known as a world class ski resort, and as the "Festival Capital of Colorado" and offers great music festivals such as the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Jazz Celebration, and the Blues and Brews Festival. It also hosts movie festivals such as the Mountain Film Festival and the Telluride Film Festival. The city offers gourmet dining, great shopping and wonderful nightlife activities. For more information, telluride.com is your source on the web for everything Telluride.

RV campsites abound in Southwest Colorado and include beautiful US Forest Service Campground, State Park campgrounds and many individually owned campgrounds-many are available with full service.  Be sure to visit swcolotravel.org for more information on this unique and wonderful area.

Fort Worth, Texas, known as the ‘City of Cowboys and Culture’, is the 16th largest city in America and is ranked as the number 1 premier travel and value friendly destination in Texas. Each year over 5 million visitors flock to the Fort Worth to experience the distinctive mix this city has to offer.

The history of Fort Worth is mainly that of the American West so it is no wonder that you’ll find the world’s only twice daily cattle drive with Texas sized Longhorns! At the Fort Worth Stockyards on weekends you can enjoy a wild west show complete with bull riding, barrel racing, calf roping and more. While at the Stockyards be sure to visit the Stockyard’s Museum. Billy Bob’s Texas - the world’s largest ‘honky-tonk’ celebrates their 30th year anniversary. This club has been voted country music’s “club of the year" eleven times. It not only has top music star performers and entertainment but LIVE bull riding shows on Friday and Saturday night and more!

Want to see how the cattle barons lived? Then a visit to Thistle Hill should be on your agenda. Built in 1903, this home is one of the Southwest's best preserved Georgian Revival Mansions. Additionally, the Log Cabin Village provides a historic insight into life in the early 19th century with log homes, black smith shop, school house and more.

Nearby is the Fort Worth Botanical Garden with world renowned Japanese Garden and the Fort Worth Zoo. If you visit the zoo on Wednesday’s you can enjoy ½ price day. It has over 500 animals and a great Texas Trails exhibit-a family favorite.

Named as the one of the Top 10 US art cities, the Cultural District offers many unique things to see and do. You’ll find the Amon Carter Museum of American Art, Kimball Art Museum and many other art galleries filled with awesome exhibits. You’ll also find magnificent performing arts including live theatre, ballet and symphony. Make time to attend the Bass Performance Hall in the heart of Sundance Square

Need more options? The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History is a great venue for families and features an IMAX theater and Planetarium as well. Additional attractions include the Texas Civil War Museum, the largest west of the Mississippi, the Vintage Flying Museum, Fort Worth Water Gardens, National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame! Also visit Justin, TX for those famous Justin Boots!

If you enjoy baseball, football and amusement parks, then you’ll want to visit Arlington, TX. Nestled between Fort Worth and Dallas, the city of Arlington is home of the Cowboy’s Stadium, Texas Rangers Ball Park, Six Flags Over Texas and Hurricane Harbor, the largest water park in the southwest. Six Flags Over Texas offers daily performances and over 100 rides, including the world’s number 1-rated wooden roller coaster - The Texas Giant! Six Flags is celebrating their 50th anniversary with special events discounts and entertainment. Rent your RV from us, and we’ll provide coupons with two different offers good through September 25th - “Buy one day and get a second visit free” or “Everyone pays kids price” - a great way to enjoy additional savings for the family. Also in Arlington, you’ll find one of the few museums in the world dedicated solely to commercial aviation- the American Airlines C.R. Smith Museum. It is a great place to visit and offers hands-on exhibits. Enjoy the world of flight through film - “Spirit of American” with breathtaking aerial photography.

A few miles north of Fort Worth, you may want to visit Grapevine, which is home to six vineyards, wineries, a vintage railroad and the Grapevine Opry. Much of the downtown main street is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. There you’ll discover a shopper’s delight with antiques, boutiques and upscale shops. Grapevine Mills Mall offers a paradise of options for shoppers as well and new this year is the Legoland Discovery Center.

If time allows, 30 miles east is the city of Dallas which also offers great educational, historic and fun venues. The nationally known landmark, of course, is the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealy Plaza and JFK Memorial where one can take a walk back in history to the sights, sounds and tragedy of the fateful day John F. Kennedy was shot.

While in Dallas, you won’t want to miss a wonderfully unique and historic Old City Park Heritage Village - a 13 acre park which contains many Victorian Era homes and is a living history museum. There is also the Dallas World Aquarium, museums and more. Shopping, fantastic dining options, nightlife and more await you.

Need a place to park your RV? There are many RV facilities in the Fort Worth, Dallas and Arlington locations that you can stay while in the area, including the Arlington KOA, which won the 2010 Presidents Award and top camper satisfaction scores. It is near the Texas Ranger's Ballpark and Dallas Cowboy Stadium and is centrally located between Fort Worth and Dallas. There are also the following facilities around Fort Worth that offer RV camping. A few are the Big Bend Motor Inn and RV Campground, which is located on the north side of Fort Worth, the Midtown RV Park, which is a small quiet park in the middle of town. Settler’s Haven RV Resort provides an array of amenities & services to make your RV camping more pleasurable and is located in the White Settlement area in west Fort Worth. Settlers Haven RV Park is open year round and has 30 and 50 amps hook ups. They are a very quiet adult community and located close to Highway 30. Sunset RV Park, also west Fort Worth offers full hook ups as well.

Remember, it’s never too late to enjoy your vacation! Fort Worth offers many wonderful venues year round! Click here for more resources and valuable information.

In today’s fast-paced world, there seem to be few opportunities for families to spend quality time together. As a result, families are discovering that vacationing in an RV is the best way to not only have a great time, but also improve family relationships. An RV road trip allows the family to remove the daily distractions and routines that hamper relationships and allows the time to reestablish those relationships through quality time. Through frequent communication, teamwork, mutual dependence and a new appreciation of each other, family relationships can be strengthened, enhanced and more satisfying. Indeed, a carefully planned RV vacation can be most beneficial to the family dynamics as well as a means of providing rest, relaxation and an exciting vacation experience. An RV is the perfect base for pursuing all sorts of outdoor activities such as fishing, biking, river rafting, rock climbing, and hiking. As a familiar motto states: “It’s the journey that matters, not the destination!”

Rent an RV and see some amazing sights. Enjoy some incredible family moments. Savor the freedom to choose where you want to go and not be bound by a time share. RV travel is about adventure, seeing the country, making memories and bonding closer together as a family.

If you wish to experience the history, romance and culture of yester-year, then travel the “Mother Road”. And as the song says, “Get your kicks on Route 66!”

Route 66 is one of the most famous roads in America and the romance and nostalgia of the ‘Mother Road” continues to captivate people around the world. Running between Chicago and Los Angeles, this historic route passes through the heart of the United States. For over 60 years, Route 66 earned the title “Main Street of America” because it wound through small towns which transverse the route with hundreds of diners, motels, gas stations, and tourist attractions. Travelers who are intent on experiencing a taste of the American experience will find that Route 66 offers an unforgettable journey into America, then and now.

From Tulsa to Elk City and beyond, there are several places along the route that will be well worth visiting. Chandler, OK offers a Route 66 interpretive center. Clinton, OK is home of the official Oklahoma Route 66 Museum which offers a comprehensive exhibit of Route 66 history and culture. Elk City, OK was a popular stopover on Route 66 and is home to the National Route 66 Museum and the Old Town Museum. These are but a few places that will peak your interest along the Mother Road. For more information and facts on Oklahoma’s Route 66 visit Oklahoma Route 66 Association or TravelOK.com.

Six Flags over Texas occupies 212 acres in Arlington, Texas and first opened in August of 1961, celebrating it's 50th Anniversary! It is the world’s first successful regional amusement park and the first major amusement park to introduce a “one ticket for all attractions” policy. Six Flags over Texas is also the first park to offer the world's first log flume ride, first free-fall ride and first mine train style roller coaster.

The name chosen for the  park - Six Flags over Texas – was representative of the six nations that had sovereignty over some or all of the current Texas territory: Spain, France, Mexico, Republic of Texas, United States of America and the Confederate States of America.

Celebrating five decades of thrilling family entertainment, this year is no different with an all new park closing show and the newly renovated thrilling roller coaster ride - the new Texas Giant!  The Texas Giant has been renovated with steel fabrication, now boasting the steepest drop of any wooden coaster in the world at 79 degrees and the lift hill 10 feet taller than the original Texas Giant! 

The park offers over 50 different rides, has 8 theatres offering  live entertainment, hosts bands from across Texas, concerts and live shows.  For the roller coaster enthusiast, there are 13 different coasters to experience. The Titan, for one, is 245 feet tall and boasts a top speed of 85 miles per hour!

While in Arlington, there are additional attractions to enjoy as well.  Take in a ball game at Texas Ranger’s Ballpark or enjoy water activities at the nearby Six flags Hurricane Harbor. If you like football, don’t miss the nearby Cowboys Stadium. Whatever your interests, there are new and exciting memories to share with family and friends. This is the year to visit Arlington, Texas!  Be sure to check out arlington.org and sixflags.com for more information.

If you are looking for a great place to take your family this summer, why not consider the fabulous amusement parks- World’s of Fun/Oceans of Fun & Planet Snoopy? Located in Kansas City, World’s of Fun opened in 1973 and is themed around Jules Verne's book "Around the World in Eighty Days". It features over 40 different rides, including seven world class roller coasters, and many shows with award winning live entertainment with performers from around the country. This family oriented park is sure to be a winner with the whole family!

Oceans of Fun, the adjacent water park, opened in 1982. It features over 13 different pools, fun filled water activities and water slides-some with a 43 foot vertical drop! The water-based fun includes inter-tube slides, kayaks and canoes in a five acre lake, circular rafts that tumble from a 72-foot tall super slide, wet & wild water flume ride and more! Your family won’t want to miss these fun filled water adventures!

The latest addition for 2011 is Planet Snoopy. The park offers its guests more than 50 rides and attractions covering 235 acres of land and is aimed at the young of heart.  Planet Snoopy will be phased in over the spring and summer and will feature 18 rides, a new bounce house,  foam ball factory, daily character appearances of Charlie, Lucy, Snoopy and the gang, plus a brand-new show! With seven new rides designed for the whole family in mind including a new balloon tower ride, car and truck rides for little ones, a spinning tug-boat for the family, the little ones will be sure to have a great time exploring all the great attractions!

World’s of Fun also includes an RV Park on site so you can rent your RV from us and enjoy a great place to stay while on your family vacation. Be sure to check out all the great and exciting opportunities at this location by visiting their web site worldsoffun.com. When you book your RV with us you will also receive a coupon for $10.00 savings on regular tickets!

Located 80 miles from Tulsa between Muskogee and McAlester, Eufaula is home to Oklahoma’s largest man-made lake. Lake Eufaula boasts being the 15th largest lake in the USA. Here, one can enjoy the serenity and beauty of this vast area that covers 600 miles of shoreline. This area is a popular spot for bass fishing but also offers a vast array of other activities such as swimming, boating, water sports, hunting and golf.

While in Eufaula, you might want to visit Jellystone Park Resort. Your family will enjoy all-time favorite characters Yogi and friends! It is a place where the fun never runs out! There are varied activities to enjoy - such as miniature golf, pirate boat rides, paddleboat rides, outdoor theatre, etc. Additionally, Lake Eufaula State Park offers RV sites, an 18-hole golf course, fishing dock, marina, picnic area, swimming beaches, hiking and nature trails, and a host of other water sports.

There's never a dull moment with the abundant outdoor water activities. Visitors can also enjoy parasailing, hunting, hiking, golf, tennis, horseback riding, bird watching, volleyball and horseshoes. If you want to just rest and relax for a while, you might enjoy Inspiration Gardens. If you are looking for wildlife and scenery there are over 31,000 acres that offer public hunting and hiking trails. This area is also a bird watcher’s paradise.

While in Eufaula, don’t miss the downtown area. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and offers unique shopping for both antiques and boutiques. You can enjoy excellent dining and nightlife activities as well. Visit go-oklahoma.com/Lake-Eufaula for more information.

Considered the ‘Crown Jewel’ of northeast Oklahoma, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees offers a bountiful scenic beauty with rolling hillsides, tall pines, water and wildlife. Sixty-four miles long, with 1,300 miles of shoreline, a number of marinas, eight state parks nestled along its shores as well as a dozen other privately operated facilities, Grand Lake offers a perfect vacationing spot!

Some of the varied activities in the area include, but are not limited to, boating, fishing, golf, sailing, skiing, swimming, biking, and hiking, Wherever your interests lie you'll find everything you need right here at Oklahoma's premier water park, Grand Lake!

Additional to water sports, you might want to include some other fun and unique activities located in the Grove, OK area, which is the largest city on Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees. The Cherokee Queen is a paddle wheel riverboat that offers scenic tours and romantic evening cruises along Grand Lake’s shores. Beautiful and serene, the Lendonwood Gardens is a six acre botanical garden that features a large koi pond, oriental gardens, English gardens and other amazing garden delights. The Grand Lake Casino offers gaming and nightlife. One of the largest antique museums in the U.S., Har-Ber Village, comprises over 100 buildings and antique collections and is a real tribute to the American Frontier. Downtown Grove also offers charming antique shops, specialty shops and other boutiques, and great dining experiences. Several supper clubs are available for evening dining as well. Be sure to check out grandlakefun.com for more information on Grand Lake.

Conveniently located one hour from Tulsa, Lake Tenkiller is known as Oklahoma’s “Heaven in the Hills.” This awesome lake area boasts 34 miles of wild, lush and forested rolling hills, spans nearly 130 miles of scenic shoreline and rocky bluffs and contains 13,000 acres of a sparkling blue clear water lake. It is one of the most beautiful and unscathed spots in the region. There are a wide variety of year –round activities such as scuba diving, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, jet and water skiing and more. Lake Tenkiller includes 10 marinas that offer lake access and 20 state and privately owned parks that offer wonderful lake views and RV campsites. Lake Tenkiller is perfect for all types of outdoor recreational activities and entertainment and is truly a camper’s paradise that offers something for everyone.

While at Lake Tenkiller, why not enjoy viewing the wildlife? Sequoyah National Wildlife refuge is home to nearly one million migratory geese, water fowl and the bald eagle. Admission is free. Tenkiller State Park Nature Center is open seven days a week in the summer and offers short nature trails and guided tours.

Take a side trip to Tahlequah, which offers shoppers unique boutiques and diverse shops. While there, enjoy golfing, viewing historic monuments, or an historic home tour. Explore the Cherokee culture and heritage, natural scenic beauty, horseback riding, take in a movie or enjoy fine dining. No matter what you are looking for, Lake Tenkiller offers many wide and varied fun filled adventures-a perfect place where families can create memories. For more information, check out the following online visitor guide at laketenkiller.com.

The Taos Valley, nestled in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo range, is a true place of enchantment offering breathtaking beauty and cultural delights. Steeped in history, Taos offers an array of unique experiences to delight any well traveled tourist.

An historical site you won’t want to miss is the 1,000 year old continuously inhabited Native American pueblo community, Taos Pueblo. This multi-storied adobe site has been named not only a World Heritage site, but a National Historic Landmark as well.  Seven miles west, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge spans an 800 foot deep gorge, offers a great panoramic view and is the second highest bridge in the country. Another must-see site is the Millicent Rogers Museum which hosts a vast array of Native American and Hispanic arts and crafts within its galleries.  Kit Carson Park features both Carson’s home and a museum and is well worth the visit.

Surrounded by varied terrains, opportunities for outdoor pursuits abound. Kayaking, hunting, fishing, hiking, golfing, biking, white water rafting and horseback riding are a few of the outdoor activities that can be enjoyed.  If you want a unique outdoor experience you might try a great family adventure of llama trekking at Wild Earth Llama Adventures.

Taos is home to hundreds of musicians and artists and boasts over 80 unique galleries. There is something here for the most savvy of travelers to enjoy.  For additional lists of places to visit check out taosvacationguide.com.

Situated in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, Santa Fe is one of America’s oldest and most beautiful cities and is known the world over as a top travel destination. No other city in the US can quite compare with the culture, arts, heritage or richness in history that Santa Fe has to offer. Located in the foothills of the Rockies, Santa Fe abounds with natural beauty and offers nearly year round sunshine and clear blue skies. Santa Fe has been featured in numerous travel and leisure magazines for its culture, sightseeing, dining and spas.

There are over 170 attractions to see and experience in and around this great city. A couple of historical places to visit are the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the country still in use that was constructed in 1610 and the St. Francis Cathedral, built in 1886 and known for its beautiful Romanesque architecture. Another historical and unusual site of interest is the oldest adobe house which is over 800 years old. Travel 30 miles north and you’ll find the Puye Cliff Dwellings, an awe inspiring cultural site that is a national historic landmark featuring early pueblo architecture, cliff and cave dwellings and more.

There are also numerous museums to tour such as the New Mexico History Museum, the Museum of International Folk Art or the El Rancho de las Golondrinas- a living history museum. If you wish something more contemporary, check out the world famous art galleries that include works by Georgia O’Keeffe. Additional area attractions include the Santa Fe Opera House, the Kakawa Chocolate House, or the Santa Fe Southern Railway which offers rides on a working freight train in vintage coaches.

Savor the southwestern fare in dining; enjoy world-class spas or explore hundreds of unique shops offering southwestern specialties that make this city a shopper’s paradise. Santa Fe can offer whatever inspires you! Be sure to check out santafe.org for a list of all the attractions and sites this city has to offer.

Experience the authentic Southwest! Discover one of the oldest cities founded in the US and one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Mexico! Located in the middle Rio Grande Valley region on historic Route 66, Albuquerque is a fascinating place to visit. The area boasts a mild, dry climate which makes it perfect for year round tourism.

Albuquerque, the home of traditional Native American culture and early Spanish colonials, offers a multitude of unique and interesting sites. Imagine visiting ancient ruins at the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument, or excavated ruins and artifacts of the ancient Pueblo at Coronado State Monument, or viewing historic rock art at the Petroglyph National Monument. Another popular tourist attraction includes the Sandia Peak Tramway which travels high above scenic canyons and forests and is the longest tramway in the world.

You might also want to visit the Albuquerque Aquarium, Rio Grande Botanic Garden, Turquoise Museum, Indian Pueblo Cultural Center, and Historic Old Town. If you love golf, the city offers some of the country’s best golf courses. For great upscale shopping or dining Albuquerque’s historic Nob Hill offers unique shops and boutiques, great dining experiences, art galleries and chic night life. For additional information on events and activities, be sure to visit itsatrip.org

In Naples you’ll discover a unique tropical paradise. Considered as the "Crown Jewel" of Southwest Florida, this area offers an idyllic Florida experience.

Located along the Gulf of Mexico, there are seven miles of sweeping white sand beaches, swaying palm trees, calm seas and warm Gulf waters. Long known for its world class shopping, dining and an abundance of challenging golf courses, it is also only steps away from the untamed tropical wilderness of the Everglades. The Everglades National Park and Big Cypress National Preserve are two of the most famous places to take in a great sight-seeing excursion. They are perfect places to observe bottlenose dolphins, birds, manatees, alligators, amazing wildlife such as bears and panthers in their natural habitat, cypress trees and more.

Just south of Naples is Marco Island, where you can relax and enjoy miles of white sand beaches or take in outdoor recreational activities such as boating, fishing, golf, and tennis. There are sumptuous places to dine, venues for art, culture and shopping. Be sure to check out paradisecoast.com for more information.

Wherever you choose to stay in Southwest Florida, you’ll not want to miss visiting the small and intimate islands of Sanibel and Captiva - which offer some of the world’s most breathtaking views of sky, sand and sea. Known for its stunning white sand beaches, bay cruises and awesome sunsets, these islands are among the most romantic and beautiful places in Southwest Florida.

Exclusively, Sanibel is known as the “Seashell Island” since more shell varieties exist here more than anywhere else in the US and is ideal for shelling. Additionally, it hosts one of the leading shell museums in the world - The Bailey-Matthews Shell Museum. Sanibel also has a massive nature preserve with abundant wildlife and is a great place for bird watchers. The Sanibel Lighthouse offers an historic place to visit as well. If you enjoy shopping, there are stylish boutiques and gift shops to explore.

These islands are also a paradise for anglers and boaters. Daily fishing, dolphin watching, and sea life excursion cruises depart from Port Sanibel Marina as well as Captiva Island's McCarthy’s Marina. Check out fortmyers-sanibel.com for more information.

Known as the “City of Palms” for its palm lined streets, Fort Myers is rich in history. Additionally, the beaches of Estero Island along the Gulf of Mexico make this destination a favorite in Southwest Florida. There are seven miles of white sand beaches and more than 100 barrier islands that can be explored and enjoyed. This area offers world class fishing, golfing as well as other attractions and is a desired haven for dining, shopping, and nightlife.

Fort Myers claimed additional fame as a place of winter residences for Thomas Edison and Henry Ford. Currently, The Edison & Ford Winter Estates cover 20 acres of gardens, historic homes and museum exhibits that are a favorite tour stop for visitors. Times Square, in the heart of downtown Estero Island provides an enjoyable outdoor dining experience featuring street performers and plenty of shops to explore. Water sports, parasailing, tennis, movie theatres, marinas, casino boats, and other venues of entertainment abound that will keep your schedule full. If you want relaxation, enjoy the sun and beach, gather sea shells, swim or sunbathe.

Fort Myers/Fort Myers Beach is a place you can do it all and is a gateway to several islands, including Sanibel and Captiva Islands. Check out fortmyers-sanibel.com for more information.

Situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico Bayou and home to a busy port, this locale offers an alluring semi-tropical climate, gorgeous white, sugar sand beaches, wetlands, wildlife, theme parks, and much more. Because of its year round great weather, visitors can enjoy varied water sports and great outdoor adventures year long. For the golf enthusiasts, Tampa also boasts dozens of pristine golf courses.

While in Tampa, relive history as you visit the maritime American Victory Museum and Ship. Discover one of the best aquariums in the country at the Florida Aquarium. Enjoy an exciting adventure at Busch Gardens Theme Park where you can experience an unforgettable Serengeti safari or take in a colorful show and live entertainment. Relax on a cruise out of the Port of Tampa to Cozumel, Key West or the Cayman Islands. If you enjoy shopping, take a street car ride to Channelside for a unique shopping experience. Rich in performing arts you won’t want to miss The Straz Center which boasts venues from orchestras, opera, jazz concerts and other varied arts; while there enjoy a stroll along the Riverwalk.

A nearby area attraction, Ybor City, provides a unique and exciting experience for everyone. Explore the flavor of the historic Latin Quarter National Landmark District, famous for its cigar production and tobacco industry. Stroll cobblestone streets and visit a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. Only 30 minutes away, the cities of St. Petersburg and Clearwater offer additional miles of sandy beaches, parks and attractions as well. For more information and a list of all area attractions and events, visit hellotampa.com or visitflorida.com.

It is no wonder that Tampa Bay is one of Florida’s most visited places and an RV year round favorite destination. Additionally, with many fine RV resort parks to choose from in the area, it will be easy to find one that meets your lifestyle and enhance your RV vacation.

Deep in South Texas along the north bank of the Rio Grande there is nothing lusher than the Rio Grande Valley where you can enjoy palm trees, orchards of citrus trees, warm sub-tropical weather and sunny skies. The valley is world famous as a birders haven and provides diverse opportunities to explore art, culture, history, parks and more.

RV campers can enjoy various activities such as hunting in the woods, exploring various wildlife, experiencing the wetlands, strolling glistening sandy beaches, swimming, taking scenic drives, scuba diving or deep sea fishing. There are numerous cities and RV parks all over the valley that offer a variety of attractions, events and amenities to meet each person’s recreational needs and personal desires.

One significant location of interest you won’t want to miss is the city of Mission in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. This area has long been known for its spectacular World Birding Center that is home to over 500 species. The North American Butterfly Park is another popular attraction that provides extensive outdoor gardens that attracts over 200 species of butterflies. While here, you will also want to explore the remote and beautiful Chihuahua Woods Preserve. Mission is one of the few spots in the valley for water skiing on the Rio Grande River and additionally is a golfer’s paradise with four fabulous golf courses.

Brownsville is another city that offers various historical sites and attractions that are worth visiting. The Palo Alto Battlefield is a national historic site where the first battle of the Mexican-American war occurred in 1846. Gladys Porter Zoo, though small, is considered one of the best zoos in the country with a wonderful park-like atmosphere and a great gorilla exhibit. The Sabal Palm Audubon Center and Sanctuary is a nature reserve that birders from around the world flock to. It is also a perfect location for hiking trails, viewing native trees, wildlife, flora and fauna and watching the Rio Grande. You may also want to visit the Brownsville Historical Museum - a refurbished 1928 Southern Pacific Railroad depot. Visit www.brownsville.org for more information.

If you’re looking for a fantastic beach destination, then you’ll want to experience what South Padre Island has to offer while on your visit to the Rio Grande Valley. Located on the tropical tip of Texas, this area is part of the world’s longest barrier reef island at the tip of the Gulf Coast and boasts 34 miles of pristine white sand beach, warm Gulf waters and breathtaking sunsets. It offers a vast array of water related recreational activities that include fishing, boating, wave running, para-sailing, sail boarding and more. Be sure not to go home without a visit to The Dolphin and Nature Research Center and the Port Isabel Lighthouse which are nearby.

With so many places to visit and things to do, you’ll want to make sure you explore all of the options available in this great state. visit wintertexansonline.com for more information.

Located in the southern part of Arizona in the Sonoran Desert, this area is surrounded by rugged, natural beauty, rolling hills, five mountain ranges and endless cactus, Tucson is home to a wide variety of national parks, attractions and museums which are rich in history and southwestern culture. Area attractions include the Mission de San Xavier del Bac, Pima Air and Space Museum, The Mini-Time Machine Museum of Miniatures and the Arizona Donoran Desert Museum. At night, attend the ballet, opera, or symphony performances. During the day spend your time golfing or visiting Saguaro National Park with hiking trails and Ranger led tours or attend the largest outdoor mid winter rodeo in America - the La Fiesta de los Vaqueros Rodeo. Also be sure you don’t miss the world’s largest natural history Gem and Mineral Show Case hosted annually in February.

Explore art district venues including galleries featuring pottery, jewelry, artwork, crafts and other items, many of which are created by Native Americans. Shop until you drop in Tucson’s largest indoor mall.

There are several RV parks that cater to winter guests and can provide access to everything from tennis, spa sessions, swimming pools, craft, dancing or yoga classes. The list of activities is endless. Go to visittucson.org or go-arizona.com/Tucson for additional information.