“where to travel this summer” stories?
According to Expedia, in 2023, there has been a surge in trips to culture capitals, a new wave of interest in wellness retreats, and a spike in demand for outdoor destinations beyond just beaches and mountains—travelers now want to be more well-rounded in their adventures.
We’ve compiled a list of perfect, culture-filled summer destinations below my signature, from domestic to international, we’ve highlighted all the best accommodations and activities in destinations like Utah, Arizona, Colorado, South Carolina, Texas, Wyoming, and Belize! Whether you’re working on a family vacation story, above-and-beyond luxury or just hoping to showcase out of the ordinary summer travel – we’ve got it all!
DOMESTIC
Utah
Park City
With only a short 35-minute drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport, Park City, Utah welcomes summer travelers with an abundance of events, experiences, and fresh-air outdoor activities for guests of all ages. As an IMBA-certified Gold Level mountain biking destination, Park City delivers over 400 miles of open trails, including flow trails at Park City Mountain Resort which reopen in June. For further active pursuits, guests can experience hiking, hot air ballooning, horseback riding and paddle boarding, to name a few. After this winter’s historic snow season (over 500+ inches), Blue Ribbon fly-fishing will have an impeccable start to the season this June as the warm weather rolls in, the snow melts and the remnants of winter provide the pristine rivers of the Wasatch Range all of the fresh water it needs. After a two-year hiatus, Park City will welcome back its largest outdoor dining event, Savor the Summit, which will take place along historic Main Street on June 24, 2023. Throughout July and August, guests can escape into the music with the outdoor Deer Valley® Music Festival featuring a diverse line of renowned artists in performance with the Utah Symphony. For the eco-conscious traveler, Park City welcomes back the seasonal launch of e-bike share to get around the town without the need of a vehicle, making the destination the only place in the U.S. offering an all-electric bike-share system. After a full day of responsibly exploring Park City, rest and relax at Westgate Park City Resort & Spa – a luxury resort that sits on a prime location at the base of Canyons Village – featuring spacious and attractive accommodations. With a variety of on-site amenities available, including the Forbes Four-Star Serenity Spa by Westgate, access to Utah’s largest indoor/outdoor pool, Drafts Burger Bar and AAA Four-Diamond Edge Steakhouse, guests will discover that Westgate Park City has it all! To elevate the foodie experience, guests can dine under the stars in one of the resort’s air-conditioned Alpenglobes, providing stunning panoramic views of the destination.
Bryce Canyon Country
Located in scenic Southern Utah, this area is mostly known for Bryce Canyon National Park, but offers endless adventures throughout the region. In addition to Bryce Canyon, Garfield County is home to parts of two other National Parks, three State Parks, two incredible national scenic byways, the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, Glen Canyon National Recreation area, thousands of acres of Dixie National Forest and many recreational opportunities. This area appeals to many outdoor enthusiasts, scenic road trippers and can accommodate those of any skill level. To avoid the crowds, visit Bryce Canyon Country this summer and experience the many opportunities for families to explore, learn, and connect with the park. Whether hiking on a trail, having a picnic, or attending a ranger-led program you will find something that is great for your family. Bryce Canyon has several trails rated at Easy that are great for families with young kids. The Rim Trail between Sunset and Sunrise Point is half a mile in length, flat and paved, ideal for a stroll with a panoramic view. While visiting Bryce Canyon, kids can earn the special title of Junior Ranger! The Junior Ranger program is a fun way to learn about your park while earning your own souvenir junior ranger badge (the Junior Ranger activity book is available at the Visitor Center for free). Similarly, for any fourth graders at home that want to go on an adventure and learn about Americas natural wonders, the “Every Kid Outdoors” initiative gives students free access to public lands during their fourth-grade school year and up through August 31. Bryce Canyon is the national park to visit for an itinerary full of family fun! Adventurers can travel through the majestic backcountry of Bryce Canyon Country on the back of an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) or Off- Highway Vehicle (OHV). With more than 2,500 miles of thrilling trails, it’s easy to become immersed in nature. Sail through the wind while biking by spectacular red-rock scenery and large Ponderosa Pine forests. Climb to the top of the mountains, plateaus, and canyons of Bryce Canyon Country to get the bird’s eye view of the area. All biking trails hold excitement for the thrill seeker and the adventurous family. Step inside the Anasazi State Park Museum and step back in time to A.D. 1050 when the Fremont and Kayenta Anasazi people occupied the area.
Arizona
Grand Canyon Village
Perfectly positioned just miles away from one of the seven wonders of the world, lies Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon – the 322-room hotel and resort located in Tusayan, Arizona. The charming desert property boasts five food and beverage offerings, including Coronado, a fine-dining restaurant, and Squire Pub, a casual eatery, along with a banquet facility. The property also features both an indoor and outdoor sparkling pool, a fully equipped fitness center and a bowling and arcade area – making it the ultimate family friendly destination. With easy access to the Grand Canyon National Park {only 7 miles away}, visitors can spend the day enjoying rim-to-rim hiking, aerial tours, donkey rides, whitewater rafting. The resort’s ideal location provides visitors with convenient admission to the park’s top attractions such as the Desert View, the Trail of Time, Mather Point, Yavapai Point, and other sightseeing adventures. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive to capture the vast landscapes and stunning vistas or considering a multi-day adventure, the Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon
is loaded with opportunities that will not let you down. For more information, please visit www.grandcanyonsquire.com.
Colorado
The young and active Mile High City’s stunning architecture, award-winning dining, unparalleled views, and more than 300 days of sunshine a year make it the perfect summer destination. Boasting a unique social scene, Denver holds a number of classic bars, fine dining, electrifying nightclubs, and legendary music venues. Locals and travelers are brought together through a mutual love for dancing, music, comedy, and a desire to create unforgettable experiences. The Brown Palace Hotel & Spa, coined the grand dame of downtown Denver, has played no small part in the history of this great city, attracting everyone from luminaries and cultural icons to political change makers, including nearly every United States president since Teddy Roosevelt. With 241 richly appointed guestrooms and presidential suites, The Brown captivates guests with its historic heritage fused with modern-day amenities. The upscale hotel offers easy access to many things to do in Denver within walking distance or a short drive, including the Denver Art Museum and the 16th Street Mall.
Located at the base of the Rocky Mountains, the community of Beaver Creek-Vail is bursting with a plethora of year-round activities making it the perfect outdoor escape. From mountain biking and hiking to golfing, fishing, river rafting, and even horseback riding, all accompanied with breath-taking mountain views, Beaver Creek-Vail is arguably one of the finest summer resort destinations in the world. Resting at the base of Beaver Creek Mountain, Beaver Creek Lodge is nestled within an alpine walking village buzzing with endless entertainment, boutique shopping and recreational activities for all skill levels. Offering an elite respite with inspiring amenities and an enriching ambiance appropriate for all occasions, guests can experience nature, attractions, and famed cultural festivals without sacrificing the relaxing benefits of a boutique atmosphere. Enjoy al fresco dining beside a fire at Alpine + Antlers, a refreshing swim in the hotel’s pool or explore the atrium-style Grand Bohemian Gallery spotlighting artists in the Kessler art collection.
South Carolina
Greenville
Nestled up against the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the heart of South Carolina’s Upcountry, you’ll find Greenville situated just about halfway between Charlotte, North Carolina and Atlanta, Georgia. Greenville’s friendly, thriving downtown pulses with things to do year-round. Named one of the best cities in the country by Condé Nast Traveler readers, Greenville, is a vision of natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. From breathtaking scenic parks located in the heart of the city, illustrious art museums, and dynamic culinary scene for all food lovers; Greenville is the perfect summertime destination for all travelers. Nature lovers can start off their morning with a hike through Falls Park on the Reedy, a stunning 32-acre green space with walking trails, landscaped gardens ,and historic stonework. For the best views of the city, visitors can cross the Liberty Bridge and admire Greenville’s dramatic waterfalls. This immersive experience is complete with a stay at the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville. The seven-story boutique lodge serves as a gateway to the city’s beloved Falls Park on the Reedy River for both locals and visitors. Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville features signature Bohemian interiors designed to reflect the natural beauty of the area, offering 187 luxury suites and guestrooms, breathtaking views and gathering areas, Kessler’s signature Poseidon Spa, a vibrant art collection curated by Richard C. Kessler, indoor and outdoor event spaces and an upscale restaurant and bar perched above the park, providing unparalleled views of the urban oasis. Grand Bohemian Lodge is wandering distance from all the best things to do in Greenville, including a quaint Main Street, bustling art scene, local boutiques, craft breweries and the 22-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail for running, biking and walking.
South Florida
The Florida Keys
Stretching 125 miles, The Florida Keys are a coral cay archipelago where the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico mingle, making it the premiere destination for boating, scuba diving and fishing. On the northernmost Key, Key Largo, travelers will find The Keys first and only all-inclusive resort, Bungalows Key Largo – a sprawling 12 acre luxury and adults-only oasis – offering private Bungalows each touting its own bougainvillea-laden veranda, oversized soaking tub, outdoor garden shower as well as two Huffy beach cruisers. For an exclusive escape with the utmost privacy and seclusion, hop aboard antique motor yacht, Woodson, off of Little Torch Key and head to Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – the only private island in the U.S. that is only accessible via seaplane or boat. As the 4.5-acre island is never inhabited by more than 60 guests at any given time, travelers will discover a remote respite with lavish thatched-roof bungalows, award-winning cuisine, and pursuits for both the active and relaxed visitor, like Balinese treatments in SpaTerre or kayaking along the ocean. In the southernmost Key, sits Ocean Key Resort & Spa – a luxurious oceanfront property set in the heart of Key West that welcomes guests with 100 deluxe guest rooms and suites with spacious living and dining areas, a waterfront restaurant, Hot Tin Roof, indulgent SpaTerre, newly renovated ocean view pool and famed Sunset Pier. For a peaceful retreat in Key West’s historic district, head to the Marquesa Hotel where 44 beautifully appointed accommodations await alongside three sparkling swimming pools, lush interior gardens and the hotel’s iconic 80-seat award-winning restaurant, Café Marquesa.
Fort Lauderdale
There may be sunny skies almost all year round, but it’s during the summer that Greater Fort Lauderdale truly comes alive. The days are longer, the ocean is warmer, and the list of things to do only grows – like strolling down Las Olas Boulevard, a scenic street filled with unique and primarily mom & pop shops, or an afternoon exploring innovative exhibitions at the NSU Art Museum. The destination offers a family-friendly retreat for all ages at Pelican Grand Beach Resort where guests can float down Fort Lauderdale’s only lazy river, take part in the children’s Funky Fish Ocean Camp and soak up the sun while building sandcastles on the beach. Head further south for a stay at Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa, home to the largest strip of privately owned beach in Fort Lauderdale, where families can take a swim in the refreshing lagoon pool, hit the Atlantic surf for some jet skiing, dine with their toes in the sand with the Barefoot Dining experience or pamper themselves at the full-service award-winning spa. The resort’s location also offers easy access to exciting attractions such as the Museum of Discovery + Science and the world-famous Jungle Queen Riverboat. With all of this, plus sea turtle season, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect family vacation destination.
Georgia
Savannah
As Summer approaches in coastal Georgia, there’s always a familiar scent in the air – an intoxicating mix of freshly cut grass, suntan lotion, sizzling barbecues, and bright, sunshine-filled days. Summers in the South can get pretty hot, but luckily, Savannah has plenty of fun activities to beat the heat. Families can experience a taste of southern hospitality and enjoy the city’s beautiful sunny beaches, rich historic ambiance, lush parks and more. Savannah’s Historic District is one of the largest National Historic Landmark areas in the country, where visitors can enjoy cold AC during those intense summer afternoons with museum and house tours, ice-cream parlors, boutique shopping, candy stores and more. In lieu of skyscrapers and busy traffic noise, the Hostess City has 22 park-like town squares sprinkled throughout for a relaxing walk, sipping to-go cocktails, or packing picnics. Visitors can also escape to the golden sand dunes of nearby Tybee Island and frolic in the cool water or comb the beaches for hidden treasures, like unique shells, smooth sea glass or even shark teeth. Other fun activities include hitting the links on acclaimed area golf courses, riverboat cruises or horseback rides in Hilton Head. Known as Savannah’s Entertainment District, Plant Riverside District stands apart as a vibrant entertainment destination anchored by the 419-room JW Marriott, offering incredible dining, high-end shopping, live music and spectacular performances year-round. Complete your stay experience with numerous dining options, rooftop bars, a concert venue, art gallery, riverfront park and even natural science exhibits to spark your imagination. Another striking landmark along the famed River Street is the Bohemian Hotel Savannah Riverfront, one of the city’s prized jewels & hottest hangouts, where old Savannah meets an edgy, modern twist – located directly on the river amongst popular attractions & nightlife, the city styled property offers panoramic views from the rooftop bar, Rocks on the Roof & gourmet dining in a casual-chic setting at Rocks on the River. Another great accommodation option sits next to a stunning line of ancient live oaks dripping in Spanish moss, The Kimpton Brice Hotel, located on the northeastern edge of the historic district. Housed in a three-story building dating to the 1860s {a former Coca-Cola bottling plant}, the 145-room property is imbued with the hotel brand’s distinctive, cool and contemporary style, including its on-site restaurant, Pacci Italian Kitchen + Bar, serving Italian-inspired dishes situated in a brick courtyard strung with lights.
Americus
This summer head to Americus, Georgia — a historic and picturesque small-town bustling with southern charm. Stroll through quaint downtown and enjoy streets of architecturally designed rows of boutique shops and restaurants featuring anything from five-star cuisine to fantastic home-cooked traditional Southern fare. Individuals can enjoy Georgia’s stunning hillside and indulge their palate at Wolf Creek Vineyard & Winery, take in a matinee at Rylander Theatre or enjoy a sip of Southern brewed blends at Café Campesino, Georgia’s first and only 100% fair trade organic specialty coffee co. Located in the heart of Americus and filling nearly an entire city block, the Historic Windsor Hotel is the perfect place to stay during your stay.
North Florida
Tallahassee
Sizzling summer days call for new and adventurous activities that can help keep you cool – make a splash this season in Tallahassee, situated within the Florida panhandle amid shady trees and picturesque natural backdrops offering a variety of fun in the sun. Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park hides a tranquil hidden spot out of plain sight—Lake Hall. This pristine lake is a perfect location for canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing or simply hiking the many trails that overlook its waters. On hot sunny days, the Imagination Fountain at Cascades Park is a perfect way to cool off for kids of all ages. By day, it serves as a refreshing break from hiking, biking, or strolling around the beautiful downtown park. Fun for all ages, families can dive into the world’s largest and deepest freshwater springs. At Wakulla Springs visitors can swim or plan an idyllic outdoor picnic or enjoy a guided glass-bottom boat tour, where you’ll marvel at an impressive array of rare wildlife, from manatees and native river otters to the endangered Cerulean Warbler bird.
Destin, Florida
Known for its beautiful white sand beaches and emerald green water, Destin is among Florida’s best summer destinations. This seaside community encapsulates the heart of coastal North Florida. From various off-shore activities like fishing, surfing, paddle boarding and boating to on-shore gems like delectable seafood eateries and breathtaking vistas of the Gulf. Paddleboard along the peaceful, tranquil waters of Choctawhatchee Bay, or scuba dive and snorkel to experience a different world beneath the surface. The fun doesn’t stop when you step off the beach at Destin-Fort Walton Beach. Explore expansive nature preserves, stunning parks, and more with a selection of inland activities that will satisfy your thirst for adventure even when you’re not on the water. If you’re looking for seaside, luxury look no further than Henderson Beach Resort – located alongside a 200 acre pristine nature preserve – the resort features refreshing pools, a lazy river, five dining options including a rooftop bar, activities from YOLO boarding to yoga, as well as a renowned 10,000 sq. ft. spa with unique offerings like a Himalayan salt room. Shop until you drop with a stay at the centrally located Sleep Inn® hotel in Destin – across the street from the Silver Sands Premium Outlets and a stone’s throw from the ocean – the simply stylish sanctuary is perfectly designed for a happy night’s sleep. Experience the combination of friendly service, cozy accommodations, and great rates at the Sleep Inn hotel in Destin.
Apalachicola Bay, Florida
Nestled in the heart of Florida’s “Forgotten Coast”, Apalachicola Bay offers a lowkey coastal getaway filled with all the best of Florida’s history and beauty. Apalachicola, a quaint small southern town with a strong maritime culture, offers an eclectic group of locally owned shops and galleries and restaurants serving fresh locally caught seafood. You’ll also find miles of uncrowded pristine beaches, an endless supply of shallow bays and waterways, excellent fishing, and acres of National and State forests to explore. Quietly situated on the city’s working waterfront, the Water Street Hotel includes its own marina perfect for the avid fisherman or an afternoon of family boating. Within walking distance of the center of Apalachicola, the Water Street’s beautiful turn-of-the-century look captures the solitude of life by the water. Throughout the community, wide, tree lined streets are still graced by picturesque homes from the nineteenth and twentieth century that show the wealth and craftsmanship of its early days. Among these is the Coombs Inn & Suites, a luxury boutique comprised of three elegant, historic Victorian mansions. Stay in one of their posh guest suites furnished with European antiques, original oil paintings and oriental carpets on gleaming hardwood floors. Walk or use one of their complimentary bikes to explore the nearby boutique shops, museums, art galleries, and delicious local eateries.
Jackson Hole, WY
Breathtaking nature, awe-inspiring wildlife, and bucket-list-worthy experiences – summertime in Jackson Hole offers mountains of experiences and adventures you won’t find anywhere else on earth. Steps away from two of America’s most treasured national parks – Grand Teton and Yellowstone – summer itineraries in Jackson Hole are filled with endless outdoor experiences, from wildlife safaris, fly fishing, whitewater rafting, hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, four-wheeling, horseback riding to paddleboarding, golfing, hot air ballooning and scenic gondola rides. In the heart of it all, the vibrant Teton Village is the quintessential alpine town bustling with exquisite dining, shopping, and music festivals with the most picture-perfect backdrops. The town’s Teton Mountain Lodge & Spa, located just one mile from Grand Teton National Park, is the epitome of classic mountain elegance and laid-back style. Featuring expansive rooms and suites with breathtaking views, modern mountain cuisine and custom-crafted cocktails at Spur Restaurant & Bar, a serene 12,000 sq. ft. sanctuary at SpaTerre, ranked among the top spas in America, state-of-the-art fitness center, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and hot tubs, and awe-inspiring views of the sprawling valley as far as eyes can see. This Teton Village lodge is the ultimate retreat for relaxed rustic luxury. Right next door, Hotel Terra offers the best boutique luxury experience in all of Jackson Hole. This mountainside luxury retreat brings modern conveniences and upscale amenities to adventure-seekers looking for an elevated mountain experience of a lifetime. Featuring stylishly furnished accommodations with huge windows providing unobstructed views of the surrounding natural beauty, an intimate and rustic onsite Il Villaggio Osteria Italian restaurant, state-of-the-art fitness center, outdoor infinity pool, a rooftop Chill Spa offering 100% organic and natural treatments, and an outdoor hot tub overlooking the charming Teton Village and providing expansive views of the valley. Hotel Terra is the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable alpine adventure.
Texas
South Padre Island
Situated off the southern tip of Texas, South Padre Island is one of the world’s most exquisite barrier islands and the ONLY tropical island oasis in the Lone Star State. With 34 miles of coastline, 300+ days of sunshine and an infinite variety of activities and entertainment – on top of being budget-friendly – the opportunities for fun and adventure are endless on this coastal playground stretching from sea to sand to sky. The clear gulf waters are perfect for exploration and outfitters make it easy with guided trips to scuba, snorkel, look for friendly bottlenose dolphins and, of course, cast a line in what’s considered the state’s mecca for fishing. There are fishing guides, boats to charter and even a Cook Your Catch program for the ultimate in Gulf-to-Table dining. Kids can learn to surf or take a lesson in sandcastle building – it is, after all, the “Sandcastle Capital of the World.” South Padre Island is also the preferred nesting ground for several endangered sea turtles and Sea Turtle Inc., one of the most beloved attractions, offers the chance to view these magnificent creatures up close. The SPI Birding, Nature Center & Alligator Sanctuary is another favorite for amazing eco-tourism encounters and nature lovers – be sure to say hello to Big Padre and Lady Laguna! There’s a vibrant art scene to discover along the Sandcastle Trail and Sea Turtle Art Trail or visitors can head to one of the island’s adventure parks for thrilling ziplines, horseback riding on the beach, sky coasters and more. The 15-acre Beach Park at Isla Blanca provides a full day of fun in the sun away from the sand, featuring water coasters, surfing rides and the signature Sandcastle along with great dining options and private cabana rentals. The destination’s location across from SpaceX Boca Chica makes it an exciting place for space tourists offering a front row seat to view the mega rocket in action. Plus, with it also being “The Firework Capital of Texas,” guests can end their day with dazzling displays all summer long. When it’s time to turn in, the shores of South Padre Island are dotted with vibrant vacation rentals as well as beachfront hotels and resorts, many of which can be booked using points. Be sure to keep an eye out for the new Margaritaville Beach Resort South Padre Island set to open this spring. For a list of events and festivals to check out, visit www.sopadre.com/event-calendar/.
Laredo
Located in South Texas along the banks of the Rio Grande River, Laredo is a destination at the crossroads of the U.S. and Mexico, where the special mix of two cultures blend seamlessly into one unique place. An ideal escape for all ages, the charismatic city exists in a world unto itself; rich with natural beauty, a culture steeped in history, and offering a kind of rest and relaxation unlike anywhere else. In addition to a budget-friendly factor and fascinating story to tell, Laredo offers a plethora of activities and things to do. Golf on the edge of the world at The MAX, kayak the Rio Grande, explore Lake Casa Blanca or head out on a foodie tour if that’s more your speed. The city is, unarguably, the best in the U.S. for truly authentic Mexican food but serious flavor also awaits at mom-and-pop shops, food parks, international outposts, cafés, and just about every other place else in town. There are multiple historic districts to explore, a cultural district 268+ years in the making, a vibrant and rapidly growing arts scene and a downtown region brimming with worthwhile tourist stops, noteworthy museums and historical landmarks. Be sure to grab a copy of the City Mural Map from the Visit Laredo office (linked here) to discover the beautiful art work and story-telling street murals. The Laredo Safari & Adventure Park offers fun for the whole family with exotic animal encounters, zip line rides, ATV rentals, kayaks, and other water activities. Laredo is home to the ONLY bi-national pro baseball team, the Tecolotes de los Dos Laredos, and whether you’re a sports fan or not, their games are unmatched and unlike any you’ve probably been to before. Another unique event during the summer is the Laredo International Sister Cities Festival (July 14-16, 2023), where 190+ artisans, food vendors and cultural performers from Mexico, Central and South America gather to showcase and sell authentic goods from their native city, paying homage to the rich blend of cultures the region is known for. When it comes to accommodations, Laredo offers a wide variety of options to choose from, be it cabin rental at the Safari & Adventure Park, a historic hotel in downtown or a suite just a few minutes from the airport. Whether strolling narrow cobblestone streets little changed for 200 years, shopping eclectic import goods along San Bernardo Avenue, or birdwatching along the riverbank, a visit to today’s Laredo offers the chance to experience the city’s fascinating history and vibrant, Mex-Tex lifestyle firsthand.
Dallas
Dallas summers are notoriously warm–but play your cards right, and you’ll find so many fun things to do in the summer that you’ll be (almost, a tiny bit) disappointed to see the weather cool off. If visitors are looking for something to do on the water, they can grab a kayak and paddle part of the Trinity River Paddling Trail – a 130-mile-long National Recreation Trail with 21 launch sites in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Another great place to be when the temperatures break the 100-degree mark is at Hotel Crescent Court – with plenty of cool options like enjoying a relaxing spa treatment and cryotherapy session within its immersive wellness sanctuary or go for a dip in the sparkling rooftop pool and indulge with prosecco popsicles. Right next door, The Ritz-Carlton, Dallas offers a variety of upscale activities to round out a perfect downtown Dallas getaway. Experience luxury accommodations including rejuvenating treatments at the newly renovated spa, cocktails with a dynamic city view at the rooftop pool, and celebrity Chef Dean Fearing’s mouthwatering southwestern cuisine at Fearing’s Restaurant. If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, you can explore the Dallas World Aquarium with a lush three-level South American rainforest exhibit, a 20,000-gallon glassed-in tunnel exhibit with sharks circling overhead and a Mayan exhibit home to flamingos, storks, and ocelots.
INTERNATIONAL
Bahamas / Grand Bahama
When it comes to chasing sunshine and summer travel, who wouldn’t want to escape to a tropical island filled with adventure? Grand Bahama Island is home to some of the Bahamas’ finest white-sand beaches, immersive diving excursions and fine-dining delicacies – making it the perfect location for summer travelers. Explore stunning national parks, ride horseback along the beaches, and trek through historic bike trails while enjoying impeccable weather and views. Summertime comes just after peak regatta season on the island, garnering smaller crowds and cheaper flights, making it the perfect time to spend some time exploring Freeport and all the amazing shopping, dining, and nightlife the city has to offer. For travelers seeking outdoor adventure, summer is the best season for snorkeling and diving, as the warm weather attracts unique sea life you will not see for the rest of the year! For an all-inclusive experience, Lighthouse Pointe at Grand Lucayanis where the island authenticity of the Bahamas meets the ease and affordability of an all-inclusive resort. Guests enjoy exceptional crowd-free amenities including private beach access, several sparkling pools, an oceanfront spa, an 18-hole golf course and a variety of restaurants. Lighthouse Pointe offers the perfect blend of outdoor activities, private relaxation and exquisite dining for an unforgettable summer vacation.
Belize
The natural beauty of the environment, the rich melting pot of cultures and the warm inviting people are just a few of the staples making the enchanted country of Belize an ideal summer getaway destination for anyone looking for the ultimate escape, sure to inspire fun, family bonding, romance and adventure on every corner. Home to exotic wildlife, lush tropical forests, cool mountain rivers, Caribbean Sea, secret waterfalls, mystic “under-world” caves, Maya sites and dotted isles, Belize’s allurement is in its diversity, remote islands, friendly natives, and historical mystique complement each other perfectly. The destination is the only English-speaking country in the region and just a short flight away from most major U.S. airports, making it an ideal hassle-free summer getaway. Perfect for thrill-seekers and beach-lovers alike, summer in Belize packs a punch when it comes to unforgettable activities; think: waterfall rappelling, river paddling, horseback riding, cave tubing, ziplining, paddle boarding, fishing, boating, diving, snorkeling or cacao-making lessons. This year the destination will also host a plethora of summer events, including the Chocolate Festival of Belize in May, the Grand Caribe Deep Sea Fishing Tournament in June, cross-country Lobster Festivals and the second International Music and Food Festival of Belize in July. When it’s time to book the next summer break vacation, Belize awaits, so pack your sense of adventure and be ready for an “un-belizeable” journey.
Aruba
As the sunniest island in the Caribbean with refreshing east trade wind breezes, Aruba is one of the most popular destinations for U.S. travelers. Adventure seekers can explore the depths of Arikok National Park’s rugged and wild interior during an off-road Jeep Safari tour or by hiking, biking, or horseback riding. Aquatic adventures are abundant along the world-famous beaches, attracting windsurfers, kite surfers, snorkelers, divers and more. Vacationers can stroll through downtown Oranjestad, exploring high-end shopping centers and vibrant art galleries – or head toward San Nicolas for historic museums, culture, and art installations. Beyond the award-winning beaches and year-round 82-degree weather that makes the “One Happy Island” an obvious vacation choice, visitors seeking rest and relaxation are delighted to discover Aruba’s luxurious and secluded side. Located steps away from Eagle Beach, the No. 2 beach in the world ranked by TripAdvisor, Amsterdam Manor Beach Resort provides a captivating getaway for families that are in need of an escape. The AAA Three Diamond and pet-friendly resort offers six different room types among its 72 studios and suites, currently nearing the final stages of a floor to ceiling renovation. The family-friendly two-bedroom suites boast fully equipped kitchenettes, spacious living, and dining areas. For an unparalleled toes-in-the-sand dining experience, indulge in delectable cuisine at Passions on the Beach, set alongside the beautiful Caribbean Sea. As the resort is located just minutes from historic downtown Oranjestad and a short 15-minute drive from the airport, Amsterdam Manor is the ideal must-visit islanddestination.
to make your visit memorable.