How To Spend A Perfect Day In Happy San Luis Obispo

There’s so much to love about a place nicknamed Happy Town, U.S.A. That city would be San Luis Obispo, known for not only its captivating scenery but also for its laid-back lifestyle and happy residents. This lifestyle is reflected by a pay-it-forward attitude, feel-good social interaction, and an overall sense of acceptance.

Located along California’s epic Highway 1, halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco, San Luis Obispo sits between rolling hills and the coast. Called SLO (in part because the city’s motto is “Life’s too beautiful to rush”) — or San Luis — by locals, the city is filled with charming shops and farm-to-table restaurants serving California cuisine with a famous wine region just south of town.

Things To Do In San Luis Obispo

With year-round sunshine, nearby beaches and wineries, an abundance of hiking opportunities, plus a vibrant downtown filled with historical and cultural attractions, SLO may just have it all. The city is pedestrian and bike friendly with bike lanes and bike racks downtown making it easy to get around by foot or pedal.

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa in California. — meunierd / Shutterstock

Travel Back In Time Circa 1772 With A Tour Of The Fifth California Mission Founded By Father Junipero Serra

Located in the heart of downtown SLO, Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa is named after Saint Louis, Bishop of Toulouse, France. Tour the mission, visit the museum, then explore the gardens, grown and evolved over centuries.

Visit The Funky Bubblegum Alley

Noted on several lists of the weirdest stops in California, Bubblegum Alley features thousands of pieces of chewed bubblegum placed on 70-foot alley walls. It’s the city’s most popular — yet unofficial — landmark. Thousands of people visit each year to leave their gum along the walls, which are an estimated two million pieces strong. Bring gum to add your own to the masterpiece.

Bishop Peak in San Luis Obispo, California. — Sean Andersohn / Shutterstock

Hike To Bishop Peak

San Luis Obispo’s Bishop Peak, the tallest of the Nine Sisters, is a popular trail. It takes some endurance to hike the 3.5 miles round trip from the trailhead at Highland Drive, especially considering the elevation gain of about 1,000 feet. For a shorter route, take the Felsman Loop Trail instead. The panoramic views at the top are reward for the exercise. Climbing enthusiasts seek out the massive boulders at the top of Bishop Peak, and you may enjoy watching the climbers while there.

Enjoy A Night At The Drive-In

Sunset Drive-In is one of the few drive-in theaters left in California. Enjoy two newly released shows nightly, and be sure to grab a hotdog from the old-school concession stand.

Morro Bay in San Luis Obispo, California. — saraporn / Shutterstock

Kayak Morro Bay

Head to Morro Bay, Pismo Beach, or Avila Beach for sea kayaking. The serene waters of Morro Bay Estuary are an ideal setting to spend a day on the water and view the ecosystems in this intersection of fresh and salt water. The bay water is protected from the open ocean by a scenic four-mile-long sandpit. Between the protected waters and the moderate temperatures, it makes for an ideal location for beginners or families to kayak. For a guided tour, take the Morro Bay Kayak Tour with Central Coast Outdoors and watch for birds, harbor seals, sea lions, and sea otters.

Bike The SLO Wine Region

Rent a bicycle and spend the day visiting vineyards. Grab a picnic lunch before heading out to wine country. There are more than 30 boutique wineries in San Luis Obispo’s wine region, all within a short biking distance from each other and from downtown.

Best Restaurants In San Luis Obispo

Grab A Bite At The Farmers Market

For 30 years, every Thursday evening, visitors have meandered the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market — the second largest farmers market in the Western U.S. It started when downtown businesses began staying open past 5 p.m. on Thursday evenings to allow residents the opportunity to shop after work. In 1983, farmers were invited to sell their produce, marking the official beginning of the Downtown SLO Farmers’ Market. The city closes six blocks to host a weekly street party with farm-fresh produce, smoky barbecue, entertainment, flowers, and more. The Thursday market is open from 6 to 9 p.m. weekly. Before you visit, check out what’s in season to make shopping easier.

Brunch

Enjoy more farm-fresh produce at Novo. There, global cuisine and craft beverages are served outdoors with a view on their Creekside patio, in the intimate bar and lounge, or in the downstairs cellar. Stop for brunch if you’re visiting on a Sunday. Try the lobster benedict with langostino lobster, poached eggs, fresh hollandaise, arugula, and tomatoes atop an English muffin served with roasted potatoes. Or indulge in the French toast: a brioche bread with sauteed bananas, pecans, and a rum caramel sauce.

Lunch

For lunch, visit La Esquina Taqueria to find classic Mexican dishes served with a twist. The fine-dining Mexican restaurant features classic dishes with flair. They specialize in infused tequilas, so be sure to try the house margarita. People appreciate the modern, understated Latinate look and open, airy feel of the space and recommend the mescal pineapple margaritas and chorizo and clams bowl, which is spicy and filling.

Dinner

A husband-and-wife team brought Italy’s modern aesthetic and obsession with quality to the Central Coast when they opened Flour House. The pasta is house-made, and all the dishes have a focus on the light, fresh, and flavorful. You can’t go wrong, whether you order one of the pizzas, such as a classic red Margherita, or one of the house-made pasta dishes, such as the Bigoli — long, thick pasta infused with parmigiana Reggiano, nduja pistachio pesto, and fresh clams. Try to save room for dessert; the Deconstructed Tiramisu is worth it, with a Belgian dark chocolate vase, espresso-soaked ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, Borghetti foam, an espresso and salty chocolate crumble, and microgreens.

Nightcap

Finish with a nightcap at Nightcap. You’ll find an intimate cocktail lounge serving sipping spirits and crafted cocktails. The lounge is located inside Granada Hotel, a historic 17-room boutique hotel. The lounge’s reflective ceiling, leather menus, candle lighting, curtained booths, and gorgeous marble countertops give it its energetic vibe. Martini Hour runs Tuesday through Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m.

Best Places To Shop In San Luis Obispo

Downtown SOL is an ideal destination for people watching and finding unique shopping treasures.

You’ll find a fun and friendly shopping experience at Ambiance. The clothing, shoes, jewelry, and accessories are carefully curated. You’ll also find bath and body products, home decor, and books at this unique shop.

For handmade jewelry, natural apothecary items, teas, home goods, and one-of-a-kind gifts, visit Len Collective. Designer Shannon Len collects unique artisan goods from across the globe. Her respect for the earth is evident in her selection of offerings.

To find a local store selling fair trade products and an eclectic selection, stop by HumanKind Fair Trade. The non-profit organization’s mission is to provide fair wages and sustainable employment for skilled artisans around the world. They work with artisan groups from about 40 different countries providing handcrafted apparel, accessories, home goods, and gifts. All items in the shop were made by an artisan who is able to provide for his or her family.

Best Places To Stay In San Luis Obispo

For an overnight visit, stay at the newly opened Hotel Cerro. Located on Garden Street in the heart of San Luis Obispo, the rooms have views of downtown, the surrounding mountains, and the hotel’s edible gardens. Enjoy the full-service spa, gym, a rooftop pool and bar, and the Brasserie restaurant.

If a modern, urban aesthetic mixed with comfort and sophistication is more your style, stay at one of the SLO Brew Lofts. Each loft has five suites, each with a unique setting and aesthetic including exposed brick walls, reclaimed hardwood floors, hand-woven rugs, and Moroccan tile. View the downtown area and a creek while walking distance from the entertainment, shopping, and restaurants.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the off-the-beaten-trail boutique wineries between San Luis and Santa Barbara, which is one of seven Pacific Coast stops to make while riding the Coast Starlight (as is SLO).

Why Menton Is The Best-Kept Secret In France

Menton is a lovely small city in the south of France that has the best of everything: a warm climate year-round, beautiful gardens, excellent French and Italian food, sandy beaches at the foot of the aqua blue Mediterranean sea, and a colorful and historic old town.

So why is it still the best-kept destination secret in the south of France — and mostly unknown by American travelers? Perhaps because Americans tend to flock to the city of Nice and the glamor and glitter of Monte Carlo and Cannes.

A special micro-climate separates Menton from the other villages of the Cote d’Azure dotting the Mediterranean, as it has more sunny days in a year than any other place in France. Smaller than Nice and Monte Carlo but larger than Eze or Villefranche, Menton is a city with a village feel to it.

Historically, Menton was ruled by the Grimaldi family of Monaco starting in the mid-1300s. (The Grimaldi royal family still reigns over the tiny principality of Monaco today. Prince Albert II, the son of the late Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier, is the principal ruler.)

In the mid-1800s, Menton was discovered to have a healing effect on tuberculosis sufferers, and it also attracted Russian and English aristocrats because of its pleasant climate. The aristocrats erected extravagant mansions, palaces, and luxury hotels, including many that are still standing today.

Things To Do In Menton

Old Quarter

The first thing you should do when you arrive in Menton is to take a stroll through the old quarter. Walking from the base near the seaside, you will discover narrow lanes and passageways lined with large pebbles that will take you past quaint buildings washed in pastel yellow, pink, green, and blue. Foliage sprouts from many of the buildings along with window boxes filled with seasonal flowers.

Pro Tip: The old town is an uphill climb, in between a walk and a hike, so make sure to pace yourself and also wear thick, rubber-soled sneakers or shoes.

Basilica Saint-Michel-Archange in Menton. — EyesTravelling / Shutterstock

Basilica Saint-Michel-Archange And The Russian Cemetery

When you reach the top of the old town, you will arrive at Basilica Saint-Michel-Archange, a 17th-century cathedral with an ornate, baroque-style facade that was added in 1819. The impressive interior is also done in the baroque style. Don’t miss the original organ from 1866.

After the Basilica Saint-Michel-Archange, climb to the top of the hill, where you’ll find a peaceful cemetery. Since Menton had a community of Russian nobles and aristocrats in the 1800s, a cemetery was installed. The cemetery is filled with marble and stone mausoleums and tombstones, urns, flowers, and statues. Although it’s officially a Russian cemetery, many other countries are represented, including England, Germany, and Prussia. Since you are on the top of the hill and the highest point of Menton, the views of the harbor and the town are unparalleled.

Jean Cocteau Museum

Jean Cocteau was a legendary French artist, writer, filmmaker, poet, playwright, and designer in the early to mid-1900s. He fell in love with Menton when he first visited in 1955 and became friends with the mayor. The mayor invited Cocteau to design a town wedding chapel and Cocteau was declared an honorary citizen. Cocteau was invited by the mayor again to design a museum, which he worked on until his death in 1966.

In 2003, a major new museum was dedicated to Cocteau and completed in 2011. The one-story museum is divided into seven parts featuring over 1,000 of Cocteau’s works including films, drawings, paintings, designs, and written pieces including poetry. Most of the collection was donated by Severin Wunderman, an American who amassed one of the largest collections of Cocteau’s work in the world.

The famous lily pads in the pond at the Val Rameh botanical gardens in Menton, France. — Thomas Collett / Shutterstock.com

Le Val Rahmeh-Menton Garden

A rich history is as much a part of the beautiful Le Val Rahmeh-Menton Botanical Garden as the plants are. Built for a noble Menton family as an estate with extensive gardens, it was later acquired by a general in the British army, Lord Percy Radcliffe, and his wife. Radcliffe commissioned an architect to redesign the house in a Provencal Italian style. Radcliffe’s wife died unexpectedly before the house was completed, and it was named Val Rahmeh, which means “valley of tranquility” in Arabic, in memory of her. The last resident, a wealthy English woman, took over the estate in 1952 and added rare plant species from around the world.

Today the home and garden are owned and operated by the Museum of Natural History. They’ve been open to the public since 1967.

Some of the rare flower and plant species include Chinese yam, giant Dutchman’s pipe, Santa Cruz water lily, Japanese medlar, Mexican weeping bamboo, and a Mickey Mouse plant.

Maria Serena Villa

At one time, Maria Serena Villa was the summer residence of Charles Garnier, the architect who designed the opulent 19th-century Paris opera hall. Perched high on a hill in Menton, Maria Serena Villa has almost four acres of gardens that cascade on different levels going down the hill. Plant and tree varieties include cycas, palm trees, cypress trees, and dracaena. A pond with a stone dragon has delicate water lilies floating in it.

The Citrus Festival in Menton, France. — anitasstudio / Shutterstock

Citrus Festival: Fete Du Citron

A local event in Menton has turned into an international sensation. Menton is known for its citrus, especially its intensely flavored lemons, which are coveted worldwide. Every year, Menton celebrates its citrus by hosting the Fete du Citron during carnival time, from mid to late February. There are daily and nightly parades with extravagantly decorated floats made of citrus fruits and dancers wearing citrus-inspired costumes. Every year there’s a theme, and when I attended the festival in 2017, it was Broadway musicals. I still remember the clever floats in the parade and the elaborate displays in the city center including Broadway shows Grease, The Phantom of the Opera, The Lion King, Little Shop of Horrors, Cats, Annie, and Cabaret. Imagine a replica of the car from Grease flying into the air — and it’s made of oranges!

The festival, which runs for 17 days, attracts almost 250,000 people, and 145 tons of citrus are used.

Pro Tip: The weather is fairly mild during the day at that time of the year, ranging in the low to mid-60s Fahrenheit, but it cools down at night into the 50s, so, as your mother always said, take a jacket. And be sure to make your hotel reservations at least three months ahead.

Au Pays Du Citron

Au Pays du Citron is a shop that sources products made with the famed Menton lemons. Local Limoncello and lemon-scented jams, marshmallows, honeys, and soap are just a shortlist of their product line.

Shop In Nearby Ventimiglia, Italy

Since Menton is on the Italian border, you can be in Italy in 15 minutes by train. The first town on the Italian side is Ventimiglia, and every Friday there’s an enormous open-air market. Not only are there bargain-priced Italian foods such as olive oil, cheeses, and pasta; there are many stalls that sell clothing, shoes, small leather goods, purses, and bags. I got a three-ply cashmere sweater for 50 euros and a pair of Italian leather shoes for 60 euros. Enjoy an authentic Italian meal at the good selection of restaurants near the market.

Best Restaurants In Menton

Since Menton is neighbors with Italy, the cuisine leans mostly on the Italian side with casual restaurants serving pizza and pasta.

Mirazur

One of the few places in Menton that serves only French food, Mirazur, is also a three-star Michelin restaurant. Recognized as not only one of the best restaurants in the south of France, Mirazur has been on top 50 restaurants lists. Chef Mauro Colagreco’s menu offers four variations based on the biodynamic lunar calendar. In 2008, Colagreco installed three private vegetable, plant, and herb gardens for use in the restaurant.

Pecora Negra is a recently opened Colagreco pizzeria that serves authentic pizza made in wood-burning ovens.

Le Galion

Located on the port of Menton overlooking the boats and the bay, Le Galion serves up some of the best seafood in Menton. You can dine on the pleasant outdoor terrace or in the more formal inside dining room with its plush decor. Calamari, a mixed grill of fish and vegetables, fritto misto, oysters, and lobster from Brittany are just a few of the long list of seafood specialties. In case seafood isn’t your thing, the menu has a selection of pasta and beef dishes.

Where To Stay In Menton

Hotel Napoleon

Just opposite the beach and a 10-minute walk to the center of town, Hotel Napoleon is one of the best and most reasonable places to stay in Menton. The contemporary rooms are spacious, and many have balconies with terrific views of the sea. The hotel also has an outdoor swimming pool and an exercise room.

Villa Philae

A five-minute drive from the center of town takes you to a luxury five-star villa. Villa Philae has three well-appointed suites with en-suite bathrooms. There’s also an elegant living room, a roomy and well-equipped kitchen, and an outdoor swimming pool that overlooks Menton and the sea.

9 Best Things To Do At Red Rock Canyon

So, you want some city lights on your next trip, but you’re also yearning for nature and spectacular views?

Well, if you’re planning a trip to Las Vegas, the good news is that you don’t have to choose. You have world-famous city lights available on the Las Vegas Strip, but also the gorgeous Red Rock Canyon virtually at your doorstep.

At just a half hour or so from Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area offers a true getaway within a getaway.

For more than a million visitors a year, the red cliffs and shady gorges of the recreation area serve as a respite from the hustle and bustle of Vegas — a place to unwind in nature and get in an aerobic workout at the same time.

While hiking is the premier activity in Red Rock Canyon, the park is also situated within convenient reach of the Las Vegas community of Summerlin, with its luxurious resorts, stellar shopping, and varied sporting events.

On a recent visit to Las Vegas, I spent a night in Summerlin and enjoyed the community’s more laid-back feel and somewhat easier driving than in Las Vegas. To get the most out of a visit to Red Rock Canyon, I recommend staying at least one night in Summerlin.

As with any Las Vegas-area destination, expect hot temperatures at Red Rock Canyon in the summer months, but mild weather in the winter, spring, and fall. The best months to visit are April and May, when the average high temperatures are in the high 60s to mid-70s, or September and October, when temperatures are in the 70s to mid-80s.

Here are nine of the best things to do in the Red Rock Canyon area.

The Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive. — Cindy Barks

1. Take In The Scenic Drive

Whether in a car or on a bike, the Scenic Drive in Red Rock Canyon offers a great overview of what the park has to offer. Along the 13-mile route, you will pass by numerous scenic overlooks, a host of trailheads, and some of the most stunning scenery Nevada has to offer.

It’s important to remember, though, that the Scenic Drive is a one-way route. I recommend stopping whenever an overlook or trailhead piques your interest. If you do miss a point of interest, you’ll have to catch it on a second pass through the area.

If you’re up for a 13-mile bike ride, cycling the route is a great, leisurely way to take in the views. Bikes are allowed on the Scenic Drive, but not on the canyon trails.

Calico Hills in Red Rock Canyon. — Cindy Barks

2. Hike Calico Hills

While Red Rock Canyon offers 26 different trails, one of Nevada’s most spectacular hikes can be found along the Calico Hills Trail, which takes in beautiful red bluffs and shady gorges.

There are several ways to access the trail, but I loved the access at the second Calico Hills trailhead along the Scenic Drive. The hike starts with a steep staircase down and continues along a picturesque dry creek bed.

At anywhere from 2 to 6 miles (depending on where you get on the trail), Calico Hills is rated as easy to moderate and takes between 1 and 3 hours to complete.

Ice Box Canyon in Red Rock Canyon. — Cindy Barks

3. Climb Ice Box Canyon

As the name implies, Ice Box Canyon is known for its cool shade in the midst of the area’s hot rocks. “The narrow canyon rarely sees sunlight, and the cool water and air pouring down from the mountains keep it significantly cooler than the open desert,” says the Red Rock Canyon website.

With a rating of strenuous, the Ice Box Canyon Trail is not for the faint of heart. It rises steeply from the trailhead off the Scenic Drive, and the trail surface consists mostly of rock — starting with small pebbles and transitioning to large boulders. The views are stellar, though, and the hike is worth the effort. The 2.2-mile route takes about 2 hours to complete.

4. Meander Lost Creek

If you are visiting Red Rock Canyon in the winter or spring, you could happen upon the phenomenon of a desert waterfall along the Lost Creek — Children’s Discovery Trail off the Willow Spring Loop.

The waterfall is a seasonal happening, usually during the winter snowmelt or times of rainfall. It is most likely to occur between December and April. Online sources describe it as pouring from an overhang at the back of the box canyon.

But even without water, the Lost Creek Trail offers a taste of a variety of desert flora and wildlife. It also includes towering views. The 0.8-mile trail is rated as easy to moderate and takes about an hour to complete.

Petroglyphs in Red Rock Canyon. — Cindy Barks

5. Read The Ancient News

Petroglyphs (prehistoric rock art) are sprinkled throughout Red Rock Canyon. The distinctive rock carvings hint at the scene that played out in the canyon 800 years ago. Exhibits that explain the Paiute culture are available at Red Rock Canyon’s visitor center.

Close-up looks at the petroglyphs are available at Petroglyph Wall, located off the Willow Spring Picnic Area. It’s a short, easy trail that takes about 20 minutes to complete. Other petroglyphs can be seen on the Calico Hills Trail, an easy-to-moderate route that takes 1 to 3 hours to complete.

6. Rock Climb If You Dare

The day I hiked the Calico Hills Trail, I was fascinated by several rock-climbing groups who were scaling the steep cliffs bordering the trail. Their echoing voices could be heard giving directions as the climbers hung from ropes high above me.

The canyon’s website notes that climbing is becoming increasingly popular, and routes are available for both beginner and advanced climbers. “Great boulders and sheer rock faces bring climbers from around the world,” the website says. More information is available on the Bureau of Land Management’s website.

Even for visitors who, like me, are not interested in trying rock climbing, watching the feat take place is a fun diversion along the trails.

An overlook at Red Rock Canyon. — Cindy Barks

7. Check Out The Overlooks

Although the trails are the main feature at Red Rock Canyon, don’t forget to stop at the overlooks that are spaced conveniently along the route.

I found the overlooks to be great sources of information about the history of the canyon, as well as wonderful spots to stop for photographs.

A sign at one overlook explained that the rolling hills in the distance were once sand dunes. “If you could travel back in time, about 180 million years, you would find yourself standing in a vast field of towering red sand dunes that stretched across much of the Southwest,” it said. In front of a massive sandstone hill, the sign offered a powerful geology lesson.

8. Stop By The Visitor Center

Located at the entrance to the Scenic Drive, the Red Rock Canyon Visitor Center also offers a wealth of information about the history of the canyon, its geology, and the trails that are available.

The center features both indoor and outdoor exhibits with plant specimens and a live desert tortoise habitat.

I recommend stopping at the center before you start the Scenic Drive for inspiration about which stops to make along the loop route.

Welcome sign in Summerlin, Nevada. — Tino Bandito / Shutterstock

9. Discover Summerlin

As an alternative to lodging in Las Vegas, an overnight stay in Summerlin makes the Red Rock Canyon an even easier drive of about 10 minutes. It also offers a change of pace from the usual Vegas scene.

The midsize Las Vegas suburb has a definite feeling of being a newly developed town, and I learned that it was founded in the early 1990s and has since grown rapidly with a population of families and retirees.

Although the first residents moved into Summerlin in 1991, the city has roots that go back more than a half century, with none other than early-20th-century tycoon Howard Hughes giving it an added mystique.

Summerlin’s website notes that Hughes acquired a 25,000-acre parcel along the then-barren western rim of the Las Vegas Valley in 1952 for a reported $3 an acre as a possible relocation for his California-based business concerns. He ultimately chose not to relocate, and the land stood unused for decades.

Today, Summerlin is bustling with a vibrant downtown area, several casino resorts, and a minor-league ballpark.

Lodging options to check out in the Summerlin area include the Red Rock Casino Resort & Hotel, a five-star resort that features deluxe accommodations, concerts, and events; the JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort & Spa with its luxurious Spa Aquae; and Element, a boutique hotel.

Myriad shopping and dining opportunities are available in downtown Summerlin, a walkable open-air mall setting that features a mix of local shops and restaurants and a huge selection of national chains. In all, the downtown features more than 125 stores and dozens of restaurants.

Downtown Summerlin is also the site of the Las Vegas Ballpark, home of the Las Vegas Aviators, a minor-league baseball team in the Pacific Coast League.

For another entertainment option, Wet‘n’Wild Las Vegas — a water park that features a host of waterslides, a lazy river, and a children’s area — is about a 15-minute drive from Summerlin.

12 Reasons To Visit Beautiful Poudre Canyon

Visiting Cache la Poudre Canyon is like visiting Rocky Mountain National Park — without the crowds. Enjoy mountains, Colorado’s only wild and scenic river, forests, wildlife, and culture along Colorado’s Cache la Poudre (Cash la POOH-der) North Park Scenic Byway. Locals call it the Poudre. (The Poudre got its name when French-Canadian trappers hid — cached — their gunpowder during a blizzard.)

You’ll find plenty of places to hike, fish, and picnic on the drive. Ride the river in a tube, raft, kayak, or canoe. With a 7,000-foot drop, the river provides quite a ride. But the real enjoyment is to flood your senses within the canyon. Feel the mountain breeze. Smell the refreshing pines. Hear the river roar or burble gently. See the aspens quake in the breeze. Taste freshly caught fish. Once those experiences soak your mind, stress will melt away.

Poudre Canyon’s escape is an easy drive from Fort Collins on Colorado Highway 14. From Fort Collins to Walden is just over two hours without stops. Allow at least two days.

Picnic Rock Natural Area in Colorado. — Google Maps

1. Picnic At Picnic Rock Natural Area

Set the table for your adventure at Picnic Rock. Bring your picnic basket and enjoy your lunch. Anglers can even catch their meal. For kayakers, the river between the Upper and Lower Picnic Rocks is the Poudre’s only beginner-level section.

Pro Tip: Picnickers may find flecks of gold on the beach, but don’t get excited over the pyrite (that is, fool’s gold).

2. Challenge Yourself On The Greyrock Mountain Trail

In 3.1 miles, hikers gain 2,039 feet up Greyrock Mountain. The trail’s grade averages 7 percent with a 15 percent maximum. Take the Greyrock Trail up. Return on the Greyrock Meadows Trail. The challenge will reward the determined hiker with beautiful views of mountains to the west and plains to the east. See the Mummy Range in Rocky Mountain National Park.

Pro Tip: Leashed dogs are welcome. Hike in the mornings and evenings to avoid the heat.

3. Rock Out At The Mishawaka Amphitheater

A former 1900s dance hall, the Mishawaka Amphitheater is a concert venue and restaurant. The restaurant sits above the river with spectacular views. The venue offers two stages, an intimate indoor experience, and a 1,000-capacity amphitheater.

Pro Tip: Amphitheater seating is not assigned and patrons may bring lawn chairs.

4. Challenge Your Whitewater Skills In The Narrows

The Poudre is a whitewater lover’s playground. The playground’s most challenging section is The Narrows, rated from IV to V+. The Narrows have three sections. The Upper Narrows has three drops in short order. Two of the drops are Class V. The Middle Narrows are rated Class IV. Watch out for Sports Car Corner. The Lower Narrows starts below the Highway 14 bridge. It’s a classic Class V.

Pro Tip: Poudre Rock Report offers the best water-level information. When water levels are high, the Upper and Lower Narrows reach Class V+ difficulty.

Buddha, Great Stupa of Dharmakaya, Red Feather Lakes, Colorado — Bill Fearn / Shutterstock.com

5. Have A Cultural Experience At Shambhala Mountain Center

At the Shambhala Mountain Center, tours take guests to the Great Stupa of Dharmakaya. The winding path is lined with prayer flags. The 108-foot-tall stupa is built to last 1,000 years. It’s one of North America’s best examples of Buddhist architecture.

The stupa’s symbolism is fascinating. Its shape represents the Buddha seated on a throne in a meditation posture. The spire is his crown; the base is his head; his body is shaped like a vase. His legs are the tower terrace’s steps and the base is his throne. A 20-foot-tall golden statue of the Buddha stands in the lower level’s assembly hall.

Pro Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tour time. Directions are available here.

Roxie Yonkey

6. Compare Your Profile To Profile Rock Near Old Poudre City

Profile Rock sticks out of the canyon wall between Arrowhead Lodge Visitor Center to the west and Poudre Canyon Chapel to the east. A chimney near the chapel marks the ghost town of Old Poudre City. A flood destroyed the settlement in 1891. Legend says that a resident rode his horse to death when he rushed to warn others about the flood.

Pro Tip: Park in the chapel’s lot, look up at the rock, and take the short trail to the ghost town’s remains.

7. Feed The Fish At The Poudre Rearing Unit

The Poudre Rearing Unit produces millions of trout eggs and stocks 50,000 fish into Front Range public waters. Watch fish production and feed the fish. Find out where the state has stocked fish in the state’s Stocking Report.

Pro Tip: Bighorn sheep, elk, and deer are often seen near the hatchery.

Poudre Falls in Colorado. — Roxie Yonkey

8. Climb At Poudre Falls

Whitewater thunders through Poudre Falls immediately adjacent to Highway 14. Three cascades make up the falls. The falls are most powerful during spring runoff. A road sign marks the falls, but the pullout is narrow. A steep and often slippery trail heads to the river. Do not attempt to enter the water.

Technical rock climbing routes, including Jungle Wall, Astronomy Wall, and White Wall, are available on the cliffs above the river. Poudre Canyon rock is granite, gneiss, and schist.

9. See Bighorn Sheep At Big Bend Sheep Viewing Area

The bighorn sheep is Colorado’s state animal. They favor a meadow near Highway 14’s mile marker 83. Males have longer and thicker horns than females do. Sheep horns continue to grow throughout their lives and can weigh up to 40 pounds.

Pro Tip: Best viewing times are mornings and late afternoons. From November to January, sheep are in rut (mating time) and are active all day. Sheep are jumpy; stay in your vehicle and use binoculars. For pictures, use a 300mm lens or zoom in on your phone.

The Nokhu Crags from the Ranger Lakes Nature Trail. — Roxie Yonkey

10. Explore State Forest State Park

Fans of the outdoors will find much to enjoy at uncrowded State Forest State Park, no matter the season. The park’s 71,000 acres include many trails for hikers and off-road vehicles. On the Mendenhall Route, visitors can see all the way to Wyoming. The Ranger Lakes Nature Trail is an easy walk and is very popular for families. Watching anglers cast their flies as the day ends is a sight to savor. A short summer hike to Lake Agnes offers spectacular views of the Nokhu (NO-koo) Crags. The crags stand 12,485 feet tall. Their name means eagles’ nest in Arapaho.

11. Learn About Moose And More At Moose Visitors Center

A huge moose made from barbed wire greets visitors at Moose Visitors Center. In the center, interactive exhibits explain how moose and the park’s other wildlife live. Try wearing the moose ears.

Colorado introduced moose in 1978. Now the state’s herd numbers about 3,000. More than 600 of them live in the state park.

Pro Tip: To see moose, drive slowly along logging roads or state park routes. Find a high spot that overlooks drainage areas or wetlands.

North Delaney Lake in Colorado. — K.M. McCabe / Shutterstock

12. Fish In North Delaney Lake’s Gold Medal Waters

Trophy-size brown trout swim in North Delaney Lake. The lake is one of three Colorado lakes honored as Gold Medal Waters. Gold Medal Waters must produce 12 trout that measure 14 inches or longer per acre. North Delaney’s fish can reach up to 25 inches and weigh more than eight pounds.

Pro Tip: Colorado Parks and Wildlife publishes a lake fact sheet (PDF) that provides detailed information about North Delaney Lake.

Where To Stay

Nestled into the mountainside, Canyonside Campground offers beautiful views about one-third of the way through Poudre Canyon. The campground features RV hookups, tent sites, and cabins.

Alternatively, you can get in touch with your inner cowboy when you stay at Sundance Trail Guest Ranch.

Best Times To Visit

Every season is a good time to visit Poudre Canyon. In the summer, the canyon offers a getaway from the heat and wildflowers dance in the meadows. In the spring, meltwaters bring the river to its peak flow. In the fall, the aspens torch the canyon with golden fire. Winter’s snowfalls cover the canyon with sculptural works of art.

Things To Know

Buy groceries and fill your gas tank in Fort Collins. Provisions in the canyon are scarce and expensive.
The entire canyon is at high altitude, but altitude sickness is preventable. Drink plenty of water. Wear a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Stay safe: Follow Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s wildlife viewing and fish hatchery rules.
If you want to ride Poudre Canyon whitewater, hire an experienced commercial outfitter who can fit your ride to your skill level. The right guide can help even first-timers to have a great time.
Highway 14 through Poudre Canyon is narrow and often lacks shoulders. If you stop, pull off the road completely. If pullouts are full, please consider returning later. Be careful crossing the road, especially near curves. Oncoming drivers may not be able to see you.
Even at the height of summer, the mountains can be chilly. Bring a jacket and long pants.

How To Spend A Perfect Day In Quaint Newburyport

Historic brick buildings stand like soldiers on the narrow, angled streets. The smell of the sea mingles with the sweet yeasty fragrance of freshly baked dough and the heady aroma of savory cooking.

Newburyport, only 40 minutes from Boston, is a quaint coastal town that is perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

What To Do In Newburyport

Whether you are searching for that beachy nirvana or an elusive bird sighting, Newburyport has something to offer you. Fishing, boating, bird-watching, beachgoing, shopping, and seafood will fill up your day.

A beach on Plum Island. — Nancy Kennedy / Shutterstock

Relax On Plum Island

Cool and serene, Plum Island is an 11-mile-long barrier island and an integral part of Newburyport’s charm. Bring your flip-flops, sun hat, and binoculars. The island is a great place to play in the sand, float on the water, and observe the local wildlife.

Whether you visit for a day or stay for the week, this island’s laid-back vibe and fresh salty air will transport you to a vacation state of mind.

See this piece for a full rundown on everything the island has to offer.

Hike Maudslay State Park

Maudslay State Park offers 16 miles of hiking trails through scenic seaside vistas.

A moderately rated loop trail is Moulton’s Hill via Pine Trail and Main Road. This 3.2-mile hike is a great spot for bird-watching, since you’ll pass through a pine grove and skirt the Merrimack River.

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Massachusetts. — mkzdillon / Shutterstock

Tour The Crane Estate

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate is a massive, magnificent home with sweeping lawns and statue-lined grounds.

For a peek inside, join a tour led by a costumed docent and get a glimpse into the lives of the rich and famous. Events at the estate include biergartens, lawn parties, Christmas celebrations, and more.

Learn About Birding At The Joppa Flats Education Center

Originally a fishing village for clammers who supplied the shore delicacy to Bostonians, Joppa Flats is now home to the Mass Audubon’s Joppa Flats Education Center. The center offers guided tours and programs for adults and youth. Birding trips around the North Shore region and projects like salt marsh restoration and bird banding are just some of the events they sponsor. More than just a bird-watching organization, the Joppa Flats Education Center is a working arm of the Mass Audubon Society that invites you to join them in their quest to explore birding and natural history.

One unique program the center offers is the Mass Audubon Birder’s Certificate Program. You can register for this 11-month program to bring your bird-watching skills from simple field identification to a deep understanding of birds and their habitats.

Salisbury Beach State Reservation in Massachusetts. — Katkami / Shutterstock

Escape To Salisbury Beach State Reservation

Salisbury Beach State Reservation has everything you would want out of a seaside getaway: swimming and sunning opportunities, a motorboat ramp, canoeing and kayaking, and much more. There are 480 campsites for tents, trailers, and RVs.

Stroll along the boardwalk to view the dunes, find the playground, or have a picnic in the pavilion area.

You can apply for a parking pass for Massachusetts State Parks, and if you are over 62 and a Massachusetts resident, you are eligible for a discounted Massachusetts Senior Lifetime ParksPass.

Boats on the water in Newburyport Harbor. — Sandi Barrett

Take To The Water

When you visit a city that is steeped in boating history, spending time out on the water is almost a requirement. Yankee Clipper Harbor Tours allows you to leave the driving to them so that you can sit back and enjoy the water, scenery, and wildlife. They offer several tours, including a Narrated Scenic Harbor Tour, a Sunset Cocktail Cruise, and a Parker River National Wildlife Refuge Tour.

Smuttynose Brewing Co. in Newburyport. — Sandi Barrett

Where To Eat In Newburyport

In Newburyport, you can enjoy some of the best seafood the East Coast has to offer, explore the craft beer culture, or find a fun spot to hang out and watch the world go by.

Bob Lobster

You will encounter locals and visitors alike in the long line at Bob Lobster, but don’t worry — the line moves quickly. Take a seat at one of the picnic tables to munch on fried clams, fried oysters, and lobster rolls, including the Fat Lobster. The ultimate in lobster rolls, the Fat Lobster is a buttered brioche roll stuffed with lobster salad and topped with fried clams and thin, crispy onion rings. It is served with a side of perfectly crispy fries. It’s enough for two, but you certainly don’t have to share if you don’t want to!

Look for the large, weathered ice cream cone on the sign. The shack is shared by Richardson’s Ice Cream. Their root beer float will bring you back to your childhood.

Smuttynose Brewing Co.

Craft beer joints are everywhere in Newburyport, so make time to kick back and relax with a great beer. Smuttynose Brewing Co. offers gastropub fare in their restaurant and on their large patio. Pair a Whole Lotta Buffalo Chicken Sandwich with the Common Man Ale, or a plate of Trailer Park Nachos with an Old Brown Dog draft. Try your hand at disc golf or karaoke, and make sure to visit the Airstream converted into an outdoor bar — very cool.

RiverWalk Brewing Company

RiverWalk Brewing Company is the local pub where everybody knows everybody else, but visitors are always welcomed into the fold. If you are a wheat beer aficionado, try the Yacht Rocker with its light and smooth finish. The Purple Label is a unique porter with a hint of blackberry. The brewery offers pizza to chase down your brews.

Brick & Ash

The Brick & Ash restaurant and beer garden is centrally located in historic downtown Newburyport. With more than 15 beers on tap, you will find a draft to suit your taste. You can pair that perfect brew with one of their tacos, burgers, or sandwiches. It’s a fun spot to watch Newburyport pass by.

Where To Shop In Newburyport

The beautifully restored brick buildings near the harbor house wonderful, one-of-a-kind shops.

The handcrafted, custom jewelry at Pam Older Designs would make a fantastic memento of your visit.

Pop into Port Plums for a regularly scheduled cooking class. For a real treat, the staff will work with you to design your perfect olive oil or balsamic vinegar — the ultimate souvenir for you or gift for your friends and family. They will even help you design a custom label. Understandably, reservations are required for this service.

Head to Piper & Chloe for those rustic, elegant treasures you can only find near the sea.

Where To Stay In Newburyport

A country inn, a downtown bed and breakfast, an RV camp surfside — you have a multitude of accommodation options in Newburyport.

Compass Rose Inn

The newly constructed six-room Compass Rose Inn boasts the beauty of the old Federal style married with modern-day appointments. Just a few blocks from the harbor and nestled in the historic shopping district, this inn is perfectly situated in the center of Newburyport.

The Inn At Castle Hill On The Crane Estate

Tea on the veranda with the glorious coastline as a backdrop… A stay at The Inn at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate is like stepping back in time to when sweeping porches, refined elegance, and retreating to the country were all the rage. A “cottage” for the Richard T. Crane family while their grand estate was being constructed, the inn is dripping with class.

Beach Camping

Camping options abound in the Newburyport area. If you want to be right on the beach to enjoy nighttime campfires, moonlit beach walks, and chats with like-minded beachgoers, Hampton Beach State Park is a fun state campground where you can enjoy all the beach has to offer. Whether you own or rent an RV, you can’t go wrong with this overnight stay.

Newburyport is a beautiful city, and the area is chock-full of fun adventures to occupy your day. You might want to consider spending a long weekend here to experience everything this quintessential coastal New England town has to offer.

How To Spend An Amazing Day In Historic Greenwich

Greenwich, Connecticut, is just a 40-minute ride on the Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line from New York City’s Grand Central Terminal. Not simply a bedroom community of Manhattan, Greenwich offers history, art, culture, food, shopping, and amazing scenery all wrapped up in an appealing and elegant package. It consists of a charming downtown, historic neighborhoods, and a “backcountry” full of golf courses, horse farms, reclusive celebrities, and financial titans.

It’s easy to spend an amazing day in historic Greenwich. Here are just a few ideas.

What To Do In Greenwich

Greenwich surprises many visitors who think of it as a sleepy little town full of quaint old buildings. In reality, it’s a hive of activity with lots to do.

The Bush-Holley House in Greenwich. — Greenwich Historical Society

Check Out The Bush-Holley House

Art lovers will enjoy this historic center of American Impressionist art. The Bush-Holley House held the first art colony in Connecticut and originally served as a boarding house in the Cos Cob neighborhood. John Henry Twachtman, Theodore Robinson, J. Alden Weir, Childe Hassam, Ernest Lawson, other prominent Impressionists, and scores of students flocked there to hone their craft, especially painting in the open air.

The Greenwich Historical Society keeps the history and art alive with exhibits, artifacts, tours, and a new museum building showcasing even more Greenwich history.

Visit Bruce Museum And Bruce Park

We love exploring indoors and out, and the Bruce Museum and Bruce Park offer double the fun. Start inside with the incredible museum that integrates art, natural and global environmental history, mineralogy, a live marine tank, and more. The artwork includes pieces by the Impressionists of the nearby art colony and sculptures by Auguste Rodin, Hiram Powers, Frederick MacMonnnies, and others.

This hilltop delight resides within Bruce Park, a public park with fascinating geological elements called gneiss outcrops. These metamorphic rock pieces jutting out of the ground were formed some 450 million years ago within the Earth’s crust. The park is a beautiful place to stroll by ponds with geese, ducks, and an occasional pair of swans. Spring flowers add color, while summer sees gorgeous rose gardens in bloom.

Greenwich Point Park in Connecticut. — SBWorldphotography / Shutterstock

Picnic At Greenwich Point Park (Tod’s Point)

Greenwich Point Park, known by locals as Tod’s Point, offers a gorgeous beach for swimming and sunbathing, hiking trails, bird-watching and wildlife viewing, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoe rentals, and incredible spots for picnicking. You can even look across the Long Island Sound to the New York City skyline. You can also enjoy fishing, boating, cycling, windsurfing, and more. Fill your cooler and basket to enjoy a picnic and relish the beauty of this 147-acre beachy wonderland.

The park charges non-residents a fee during peak tourism season (May through October) but not during the off-season, when it’s also beautiful.

Tour The Greenwich Historic Districts

Greenwich has a rich history, and architecture fans can experience much of it through the area’s built environment. Many of Greenwich’s historic communities are noted for their significant structures, residents, events, and landmarks. From Putnam Hill’s grand buildings to the working-class Historic Fourth Ward District, Greenwich’s historic districts include significant preservation efforts. Be sure to stop by Christ Church, featuring Tiffany stained glass windows, and Knapp’s Tavern, which once hosted George Washington.

Experience The Sport Of Kings At The Greenwich Polo Club

The “sport of kings” is great fun, and there just aren’t that many places to watch a real live polo match anymore. Head to the Greenwich Polo Club and watch the horses and players compete in high-goal matches open to the public. Sundays are game days, and matches start at 3 p.m. Seating options range from lawn seating all the way up to grand cabanas for 50 guests. Food and drinks are available from caterers and gourmet food trucks, or you can bring a small picnic for yourself. A local favorite backcountry activity, a polo match makes for a memorable afternoon.

Look For Wildlife At The Greenwich Audubon Center

We enjoy hiking, bird-watching, wildlife viewing, exploring native wildflowers and plants, and supporting nature sanctuaries. So visiting the 258-acre Greenwich Audubon Center is one of our favorite things to do.

The Byram River flows through the main sanctuary, where you’ll find 7 miles of trails through forests, fields, lakes, streams, and stone homestead walls. Look for river otters, deer, coyotes, squirrels, wild turkeys, and other local critters. Plenty of birds like ducks and bluebirds make their home here, and you might just spy migrating birds like owls in the fall. For fun, pick up a letterbox activity sheet from the desk and see how many hidden boxes you can find along the trail.

The ferry in Greenwich. — Greenwich Parks & Recreation

Take A Ferry Ride

Diana lived in Greenwich for a time and so can offer a true insider tip. If you visit between June and September, take a ferry ride from the Arch Street Dock in Greenwich Harbor. You can take a “Cruise to Nowhere,” a peaceful 2-hour ferry tour of the Long Island Sound. Or stop at one of the two islands, the larger and more interesting being Great Captain Island with its granite lighthouse and wonderful walking trails.

Explore Old Greenwich

Greenwich’s backcountry is filled with mansions and sprawling estates owned by reclusive celebrities and hedge-fund billionaires. Another neighborhood worth exploring is Old Greenwich, the oldest established neighborhood in the area, dating to 1640 when the founding families bought the land from Native Americans. There’s a lot of history in this quiet and charming neighborhood — one of America’s 100 richest places according to Bloomberg.

Explore the beautiful First Congregational Church, the Perrot Memorial Library, and Binney Park. Shop the boutiques along Sound Beach Avenue and grab a bite at the Beach House Cafe, Le Fat Poodle, or the Old Greenwich Social Club.

Where To Eat In Greenwich

One of our favorite things about Greenwich is the abundance of delicious, authentic, and creative cuisine. Ethnic bites, modern culinary experiences, and hearty New England fare are all readily available.

Elm Street Oyster House

This incredible spot has received accolades for decades, and rightly so. In addition to the namesake oysters, Elm Street Oyster House has an excellent raw bar, fabulous seafood platters, and signature dishes to please every palate. Their extensive wine list makes it easy to pair outstanding food and beverages at this casual and welcoming local favorite.

Douro

You’ll find bold flavors in Greenwich restaurants. Nowhere is this more evident than in the Mediterranean cuisine at Douro, named for the home region of Chef Rui Correia. Located on Greenwich Avenue, the main downtown shopping and dining strip, Douro delights the taste buds with modern interpretations of Portuguese, Italian, Greek, and Middle Eastern dishes. From pitas and paella to piri-piri chicken and pasta, the food is as inviting as the inspiration from which it comes.

Meli-Melo Creperie

Meli-Melo Creperie is a Greenwich institution. This darling bistro and creperie is the perfect spot to refresh yourself with a delicious salad, freshly made soup, or specialty sandwich. Of course, if you’re a crepe fan, you will find much to love, from savory crepe classics with brie and herbs to sweet crepes with caramelized apples, chocolate sauce, and vanilla ice cream.

There are many other exceptional places for Italian, Chinese, Mediterranean, French, Greek, and classic New England food, especially along Greenwich Avenue.

Where To Shop In Greenwich

If you’re looking to spend an amazing day in historic Greenwich, Greenwich Avenue will provide you with more than enough to satisfy your craving for shopping.

Tiffany & Co. is a stunning store that will grab your attention with its unique clock and logo visible from the street. Other shops adorning Greenwich Avenue include Lynnens with luxury linens for the home, Petticoat Lane with ladies’ lingerie, Richards with apparel and more, and Michaelangelo of Greenwich with unique silver, crystal, and other gifts.

While you’re there, take a stroll and enjoy the incredible architecture of the Old Town Hall, Greenwich Post Office, Saint Mary’s Church, and Greenwich Town Commons.

Where To Stay In Greenwich

Greenwich loves luxury, so it’s easy to find amazing places to stay during a visit.

The Delamar Greenwich Harbor Hotel is perfect for those who want amazing waterfront views plus attentive service in an elegant boutique.

The Hyatt Regency Greenwich stands as an impressive testament to old-world grandeur combined with modern amenities and comfort.

If you love modern decor and amenities, then The J House will please you, with iPads in every room, contemporary fine art, and poolside cabanas.

The Stanton House Inn provides a bit of classic New England romance in a charming bed and breakfast setting near downtown.

And, for a touch of Europe in Greenwich, consider the Homestead Inn-Thomas Henkelmann, which has won praise for its sophisticated architecture, design, and integrated art and artifacts.

It’s easy to spend an amazing day (or longer!) in historic Greenwich, where you can explore both the past and the present of this gorgeous and interesting New England town.

For more to see and do in Connecticut, visit this page.