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The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip

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Rocky Mountain National Prk

A Colorado road trip is the perfect choice for those of you looking to explore a new destination while enjoying time outdoors surrounded by natural beauty.

There is so much to see and do across the state that I think exploring Colorado on a road trip is the perfect way see it. Plus this way you can stay in each location as long as you like knowing you have your own transportation.

During my own recent Colorado road trip I visited small towns, national parks, city parks, and a big city. It was a little bit of everything with just the right amount of time in each location.

This itinerary is based on the road trip I completed just this year. I hope you have as much fun exploring Colorado as I did.

Colorado Road Trip Itinerary

How to get to Colorado

The easiest way to get to Colorado is to fly into Denver International Airport. You can catch direct flights into Denver from most major cities in the USA, including major cities in Europe and around the world.

I recommend picking up a rental car in Denver when you arrive and then heading off to your first stop outside the city. This way you can save time for exploring Denver at the end of your trip. This will also make it easier to catch your flight back home, especially if you have an early flight.

In the itinerary below I include the drive times between each destination so you can better plan your visit. Please remember, all drive times are estimates.

I’ve also included a few hotel recommendations based on my own travel style. I like accomodations close to the action and as nice as I can afford, without breaking the bank.

Above all else, have a great time. My visit to Colorado was one of the best road trips I’ve done in quite some time, I’m sure you’ll enjoy the same experience.

If you’re looking for another great American road trip after this one, consider a Yellowstone road trip from Billings, Montana. It’s just as beautiful as Colorado.

  • Next Stop: Boulder
  • Distance: 45 minutes

Stop 1: Boulder

Boulder Flat Irons

Boulder is a fun college town with lots of character and a lively downtown area with plenty of restaurants and bars. Those into spending time outdoors will find no shortage of opportunities while in Boulder as the area is surrounded by nature, not to mention the mighty Rocky Mountains.

One of the biggest attractions in Boulder are the Flatirons, pictured above. These are massive flat sandstone formations along the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The area surrounding the Flatirons is perfect for hiking. You’ll find trails of all kinds to explore during your visit.

If you’re looking to go out on the town for dinner and drinks head to the Pearl Street Mall. This is a four block outdoor shopping and dining district where you’ll find many of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

  • Next Stop: Estes Park
  • Distance: 55 minutes

Stop 2: Estes Park

Stanley Hotel Estes Park

Estes Park is a small mountain town located just outside the gates of Rocky Mountain National Park. The town is home to a small downtown area with plenty of restaurants and local shops.

Downtown Estes Park sits along W. Elkhorn Avenue. This is where you’ll find the local boutique shops, along with the town’s trendy restaurants and bars.

You can walk up and down W. Elkhorn in an afternoon if you’d like to do some shopping. Be sure not to miss The Taffy Shop if you want to try something sweet.

If you’re looking for a good lunch or dinner spot I recommend Smokin Dave’s BBQ. Their pulled pork was delicious. For brunch, check out The Egg of Estes, also delicious.

Another fun thing to do during your visit is to ride the Estes Park Aerial Tramway. The tram will take you from town up to the top of Prospect Mountain. The tram is open from late May to early September and provides some incredible views of Estes Park and the surrounding area.

In the evenings, head over the famously haunted Stanley Hotel. Yes, that’s right, I said haunted.

The Stanley Hotel is rumored to be haunted and is best known for its role in the Stanley Kubrick film The Shining. The hotel offers a very popular tour of the property where guests can learn about the property’s haunted past.

Those wanting to join a tour should book these in advance, they do sell out. The tours run about 60 minutes and cost $28 for non hotel guests. After your tour, stop into the hotel’s bar for dinner and drinks.

Where to stay in Estes Park

  • The Stanley Hotel: This is the best hotel in Estes Park. It’s iconic, it’s a classic, stay here if you can. Rates around $270/night.

Please keep in mind that Estes Park is also situated just outside a National Park so hotel rates in town will be higher than other areas.

If you’re looking for a place to stay on the western side of Rocky Mountain National Park, check out the town of Grand Lake. You’ll find plenty of lodging options there as well.

  • Next Stop: Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Distance: 7 minutes

Stop 3: Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park Colorado

Rocky Mountain National Park is absolutely beautiful and you can really see a lot of the park even if you have just one day.

I recommend following the map you get from the Ranger Station at the park entrance. You’ll see all the main points of interest identified along the park’s main road.

Start your day early and you should have plenty of time to see most of the stops on the eastern side of the park. If you’re ambitious, you can probably catch the western side of the park too, if the roads are open.

If visiting during the summer be sure not to miss driving along Trail Ridge Road for some of the best views in the park. Trail Ridge Road is generally open from late May to early October, though this of course varies with the weather.

If visiting during the winter you don’t want to miss Alluvial Fan, Moraine Park, Glacier Basin, and Bear Lake. There is also a ton of wildlife active in the park during the winter months, most of which you’ll find near the lakes and rivers.

Please drive slow on park roads and always be on the lookout for wildlife.

  • Next Stop: Garden of the Gods
  • Distance: 2 hours 30 minutes

Stop 4: Garden of the Gods

Valley of the Gods Colorado

Garden of the Gods is a very unique city park located in Colorado Springs. The main attraction of the park are the many 300 ft tall sandstone rock formations.

The park is the perfect place for a run or walk as there are over 15 miles of trails weaving through the various sandstone formations. As you can imagine, rock climbing and photography are also popular in the park.

I recommend stopping at the Garden of the Gods Visitor Center prior to your visit to the park. Admission is free and you’ll get to learn more about the park and local area. Be sure to check the Visitor Center website prior to your visit as their hours are shorter than the park’s hours listed below.

Garden of the Gods is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

  • Next Stop: Great Sand Dunes National Park
  • Distance: 3 hours

Stop 5: Great Sand Dunes National Park

Great Sand Dunes National Park
Photo by Jun Dong / iStock

Great Sand Dunes National Park is home to, you guessed it, a lot of sand dunes. In fact, some of the largest sand dunes in the world can be found here.

Visitors to Great Sand Dunes National Park can enjoy hiking, backpacking, sand sledding, sandboarding, stargazing and photography. There is also a small creek if you’d like to play in the water. It’s not very deep, so this is probably best for children.

The park is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and reservations are not required. So you may visit anytime. Be advised that midday temperatures in the summer can get very hot, so you may wish to plan your visit around these times.

Be sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, lots of water, and a sled or snowboard.

  • Next Stop: Mesa Verde National Park
  • Distance: 4 hours

Stop 6: Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park
Photo by SC Gerding / iStock

Mesa Verde National Park is located in Southwestern Colorado and is home to a large grouping of pueblos, masonry towers, and cliff dwellings.

Visitors to the park can tour the various dwellings once home to the Ancestral Pueblo people for over 700 years. The park offers guided tours or you can tour on your own.

Other activities at Mesa Verde National Park include nature walks, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing and stargazing. Since you have access to a vehicle, you can also tour much of the park in your car by stopping at the various overlooks and points of interest along the park’s main road.

If you have a little extra time in your Colorado itinerary, consider making the 20 minute drive west to Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. This National Monument sits on BLM land and is home to thousands of ancient dwellings including villages, field houses, kivas, cliff dwellings and more.

  • Next Stop: Colorado National Monument
  • Distance: 4 hours

Stop 7: Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument
Photo by T. Wildlife / iStock

You’ll reach the Colorado National Monument by heading north via US Route 550 which includes a 12 mile section known as the Million Dollar Highway known for its hairpin turns though the mountains.

Colorado National Monument is a beautiful park home to massive red rock formations like the ones pictured above. The park is perfect for enjoying with a car as you can head up Rim Rock Drive for incredible views overlooking the park’s canyons and rock formations.

In the evenings the stargazing here is incredible. You’ll also find tons of wildlife and plenty of colorful desert plants. Camping sites are available year round.

If you have a little extra time, be sure to stop by the Dinosaur Journey Museum located just 20 minutes north of Grand Junction off Interstate 70. The museum has lots of fossils and fun dinosaur stuff and plenty of hands-on exhibits for the kids.

  • Next Stop: Rifle Falls State Park
  • Distance: 90 minutes

Stop 8: Rifle Falls State Park

Rifle Falls State Park
Photo by Light Photo / iStock

Rifle Falls State Park is located a short drive from Glenwood Springs and is one of the prettiest Colorado State Parks. The park’s main attraction are the three waterfalls pictured above which can be reached via a 30 minute hike.

The park is a popular place for hiking, camping and photography, especially during the summer months. Plan to arrive at Rifle Falls in the early morning to avoid being turned away when the parking lot fills up.

  • Next Stop: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
  • Distance: 2 hours 30 minutes

Stop 9: Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
Photo by Dschnarrs / iStock

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a uniquely beautiful national park home to massive canyons with dark, steep walls.

Visitors to Gunnison National Park can enjoy hikes or scenic drives around the rim, or climbing and hiking into the canyon. In the evenings, stargazing opportunities can be incredible if the sky is clear.

Camping is also available at various campsites throughout the park. If possible, try to catch sunrise and sunset during your visit, this park is the perfect place for some pretty amazing sunrises and sunsets.

  • Next Stop: Denver
  • Distance: 5 hours

If you’d like to break up the drive from Black Canyon of the Gunnison to Denver, plan for a stop in the town of Buena Vista, a small mountain town known for its outdoor adventure opportunities like white water rafting, kayaking, hiking, and biking.

Stop 10: Denver

The Source Denver - road trip colorado

Okay, I’m going to be totally honest with you here, I LOVED Denver. This city has so much to do right in the city center and its got a fantastic food and restaurant scene.

During my stay in Denver I attended a baseball game at Coors Field to see the Rockies play the Dodgers, went cider tasing in the city’s River North Art’s District, played pinball at a local arcade bar, and ate many great meals.

I could have easily filled at least two more full days in Denver if I’d had the additional time. During a future visit I’d love to visit the city’s museum’s, local parks, and try more local restaurants.

If you’ll be visiting Denver for the first time, I recommend at least two nights here so you have time to explore.

Where to stay in Denver

  • Magnolia Hotel: This is the hotel I stayed at. It’s an artsy hotel right in the city center. It also has a fantastic restaurant on the ground floor. Rates around $125/night. (Marriott)

I hope you’ve enjoyed these Colorado Road Trip ideas and that I’ve helped inspire you to plan a visit of your own. If you’d like to support this blog please consider sharing this post. Thanks for reading.

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Eden Fite
Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

10 Best Things to Do in Lawrence Kansas

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Things to do in Lawrence Kansas

With so many unique and interesting things to do in Lawrence Kansas I promise, you’ll be so glad you came. Lawrence is a little bit quirky, a little bit artsy, and a whole lot of fun.

Visitors to Lawrence will enjoy the city’s many trendy restaurants, craft breweries and independent boutiques. There’s also an abundance of nearby parks and lakes for those who enjoy spending time outdoors.

I recently spent several days experiencing all the best Lawrence attractions and I’m so excited to share what I found.

I hope you enjoy this itinerary and that I can shed some light on the unique travel opportunities available in Lawrence and inspire you to plan a trip of your own.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

1. Enjoy a walk on the Kansas University campus

Kansas University

Wake up early on your first day in Lawrence and head to the University of Kansas (KU) campus.

The campus is located just a short 5 minute drive or 30 minute walk from downtown Lawrence. The sprawling 1,000 acre campus makes the perfect destination for an early morning walk.

You can start on the west side of campus at the Dole Institute of Politics pictured above. It’s a beautiful building with a small pond in the front.

As you walk around campus you’ll be surrounded by the university’s gorgeous architecture and very well manicured grounds. There are also plenty of hills and stairs if you’d like to get in your morning workout.

From the Dole Institute head east and you’ll walk by the Lied Center, the KU Visitor Center, DeBruce Center, Allen Fieldhouse and the Booth Family Hall of Athletics.

The Booth Family Hall of Athletics is open to the public and you definitely don’t want to miss this stop, so head on inside.

2. Visit The Booth Family Hall of Athletics

Booth Family Hall of Athletics

The Booth Family Hall of Athletics is a huge museum dedicated to the history and tradition of KU athletics.

On the far back wall you’ll see KU’s Hall of Fame showcasing the university’s many incredible athletes over the past several decades. They have a truly impressive sports program at KU, so there’s lots to see.

You’ll also learn about the history and achievements of KU’s various sports teams including notable players and coaches.

The Booth Family Hall of Athletics is open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There is no cost for admission making it one of the best free things to do in Lawrence KS.

3. Get outdoors at Clinton State Park

Clinton State Park - Lawrence things to do
Photo by Lindsey Martin Webb / iStock

If you’re looking to enjoy some time outdoors during your visit to Lawrence, plan to spend an afternoon at Clinton State Park.

The park is located just 15 minutes west of downtown and sits along the north shore of Clinton Lake.

Clinton State Park is one of the most popular places to go in Lawrence KS for both hiking and mountain biking. You’ll find trails to enjoy all around the park.

Those interested in fishing will be happy to know that Clinton Lake is an excellent place to catch catfish or walleye.

On the south side of Clinton Lake be sure not to miss the Wakarusa River Valley Heritage Museum which features exhibits showcasing the unique history of the Wakarusa River Valley.

If you’re looking for more outdoor stuff to do in Lawrence KS you can also visit the Prairie Park Nature Center located just east of Haskell Indian Nations University, about 7 minutes from downtown.

The nature center is a preserve and home to wetlands, woodlands, and prairie habitats. Visitors should be on the lookout for beavers, deer, bobcats, and a variety of birds.

4. Learn local history at Watkins Musuem of History

Watkins Museum of History - Lawrence Kansas Things to do

One of my favorite things to do in Lawrence Kansas is to visit the Watkins Museum of History. You can’t miss this bright red building located on a corner of the city’s famous Masschusetts Street.

The Watkins Museum of History shares unique and interesting stories about the history of Lawrence and the surrounding area.

Current exhibits at the museum include The 15th Amendment at 150: The Art of Voting, Community Construction: The People and Companies that Built Lawrence, along with a few others. The museum also hosts several online exhibits if you’d like to visit their website.

I strongly encourage you to visit this museum during your visit to Lawrence, the exhibits are really engaging and you’ll learn some very interesting things about the history of the city.

The Watkins Museum of History is currently open Tuesdays through Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free.

Other exceptional museums in Lawrence are the Spencer Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum, both of which are located on the KU campus. Visit their websites for hours and visitor information.

Travel Tip: Don’t miss the Japanese Friendship Garden located just next door to the Watkins Museum. Its a small, but beautiful public park perfect for taking a few photos. The picture above was taken from here.

You’ll also find another one of the city’s parks across the street. This one is South Park which covers several city blocks and is a popular with locals going on walks in the evenings and on the weekend.

5. Walk Massachusetts Street

Mass Street Lawrence Kansas

Massachusetts Street, or Mass Street as the locals call it, is the heart of Lawrence. This is where you’re going to find the city’s best restaurants, bars, and breweries.

It’s a fun place to spend the afternoon meeting up with friends, shopping, dining, or sipping cocktails on the many outdoor patios. You’ll also find live music at some establishments in the evenings and on weekends.

6. Shop the local boutiques

Boutiques in Lawrence Kansas

If you’re looking to do some shopping while in Lawrence I highly recommend exploring the area around Massachusetts Street. This is where you’ll find many local independent shops selling quality items unique to Lawrence.

Here are some fun places I recommend:

  • Bodytruth Soap Apothecary: They sell eco-conscious handmade skincare from plant-based ingredients.
  • Waxman Candles: They sell quality handmade wax candles in a variety of shapes, sizes, and scents.
  • Mass Street Soda: They sell over 1,000 varieties of craft soda from around the world.

Any of these shops would be perfect for finding souvenirs or just something nice to remember your trip by. You’ll also find music shops and vintage clothing stores in the neighborhood as well which are both worth checking out.

7. Relax and Refresh at Mud and Lotus

Mud and Lotus

My visit to Mud and Lotus may very well have been the best part of my trip to Lawrence.

They were actually booked up the weekend of my visit, but were nice enough to put me on a waitlist. I got lucky with a cancellation that fit perfectly in my schedule, but do plan ahead for this one.

During my visit to Mud and Lotus I went with the No Mud, No Lotus package which included a 30 minute head, neck and face massage along with a mud mask. Afterwards you get 60 minutes in their outdoor zen garden which has a sauna and mineral bath soaking tub.

Both parts of this experience were absolutely amazing. It was nice to treat myself with some relaxation time, especially in such a beautiful setting.

In my opinion, this is one of the most unique Lawrence KS attractions, and the perfect way to make your visit to the city extra special.

I recommend booking your visit for the late afternoon if possible. This way you can relax after your day spent exploring the city before heading out for dinner and drinks to end the night.

As stated above, definitely book your visit to Mud and Lotus early, they are popular for a reason.

8. Visit the local bars and breweries

Mass Street Breweries

One of the most fun things to do in Lawrence KS is finding great spots for cocktails.

Massachusetts Street is the place to go on weekend nights if you’re looking to have dinner and drinks with friends. You’ll find seveal bars and breweries to choose from depending on what you’re into.

Here are some popular local favorites:

KU is a college town, so you’ll find no shortage of lively bars and breweries to spend your evenings while in town.

9. Try Lawrence’s best restaurants

715 Restaurant Lawrence

Downtown Lawrence is literally packed with incredible restaurants to try during your visit. A walk up and down Mass Street and the surrounding area will lead you to a number of excellent options for breakfast lunch or dinner.

Here are a few of my favorites from my recent visit:

  • Breakfast: The Bourgeois Pig – They serve delicious coffee and breakfast sandwiches in the morning. Come back in the afternoon or evening for hand crafted cocktails.
  • Lunch: Ramen Bowls – They serve piping hot bowls of savory noodles.
  • Dinner: 715 – This is an upscale restaurant perfect for dates or a girls night out. They serve appetizers, salads, pastas, and steaks. Don’t skip their dessert. Full disclosure, this was one of my favorite meal in Lawrence. You’ll want reservations for this one.

If you’re in a hurry and looking for a quick bite to eat, you’ll find sandwiches, pizza by the slice, and bagels among many other things all around downtown Lawrence.

10. See a show at the Lied Center

Lied Center Lawrence

The Lied Center of Kansas is a performing arts center located in the middle of the KU campus.

The venue hosts live events of all kinds including theatrical performances, live jazz, ballet, opera, and more. If you’re interested in seeing an event at the Lied Center be sure to check the calendar on their website prior to your visit. Popular events may sell out so you’ll want to secure your tickets in advance.

*Be advised that the 2021 season may be subject to cancellations or rescheduled events.

I hope reading about the best things to do in Lawrence KS has helped inspire you to plan a visit of your own. If you’d like to read about more destinations in the USA head over to my page on United States travel.

This post was brought to you in partnership with eXplore Lawrence. However, the thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.


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The 10 Best Things to Do in Madison Wisconsin

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Things to do in Madison Wisconsin - Things to do in Wisconsin

First time visitors looking for the best things to do in Madison, Wisconsin are in for a pleasant surprise.

This lively midwestern capitol city has so much to offer travelers. Whether you prefer exploring city streets, or finding local outdoor adventures, Madison has it all.

Downtown Madison sits on an isthmus, a narrow stretch of land between two bodies of water, which in this case is Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, and is the heart of the city.

Downtown is where you’ll find Madison’s biggest attraction, the Wisconsin State Capitol, as well as some of the city’s best museums, restaurants, and bars.

Outdoor lovers will enjoy adventuring in and around Madison’s five lakes. Yes, I said five. Around the lakes you’ll find hiking trails, bike paths, and all kinds of outdoor opportunities to enjoy during your visit.

Whether you’ve already booked your trip or you’re still considering, this guide to the 10 best things to do in Madison, Wisconsin is sure to inspire your visit.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

1. Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol building

Capitol Building Madison Wisconsin - Wi at night

The Wisconsin State Capitol building is one of Madison’s biggest attractions and I’m sure you can see why. Even if you’re short on time or have just one day in Madison Wi you really don’t want to miss this one.

When walking through Capitol Square in downtown Madison, the building commands your attention. It’s huge, but elegantly built and you just can’t help but stare.

The Wisconsin State Capitol is artfully constructed and you’ll observe at first glance that its design was inspired by the US Capitol Building in Washington DC.

Free guided tours are offered several times per day and you don’t want to miss joining one. You’ll learn all about the history, inspiration for, and construction of the building and it’s really interesting stuff.

If you’re planning to visit and join a guided tour, I recommend arriving at least 30 to 45 minutes before your tour is scheduled to start. This way you can take your time to enjoy the exterior of the building before going inside.

You’ll find excellent photo opportunities from just about every angle if you’d like to snap some photographs.

The guided tours of the Wisconsin State Capitol are available daily. Admission is free and reservations are not required.

The guided tours are run Monday through Saturday at 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. On Sunday, only the afternoon tours are available. Each tour will last approximately 45 minutes to one hour.

Visitors wishing to join a Wisconsin State Capitol tour should meet at the information desk on the ground floor a few minutes before the start of the tour.

2. Sample the state’s best cheeses

Fromagination Madison

As you are probably well aware, Wisconsin is often associated with cheese. The state has a long history of producing cheese dating back to the arrival of European immigrants in the 19th century.

Today, Wisconsin is the largest producer of cheese in the United States, though California is often not far behind. You can find over 600 varieties of cheese made in the state, many of which are sold in local cheese shops around the state.

If you’re looking to sample some of Wisconsin’s best cheeses while in Madison head to Fromagination in Capitol Square.

Fromagination is an artisan cheese shop that makes fresh sandwiches, salads, charcuterie boards and cheese trays. They also serve beer and wine, so this is a fantastic option for lunch after you finish your capitol tour. They are conveniently located just across the street.

If you’re looking to bring something special back home with you, Fromagination also sells gift boxes and baskets in all kinds of varieties and sizes. They will be happy to help you put something together before you leave.

Those looking for a more immersive Wisconsin cheese tasting experience might enjoy one of their cheese tastings or classes. Visit their website for more information on these activities.

Fromagination is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

3. Explore Madison’s five lakes

Lake Mendota Madison Wisconsin

If you’re looking for the best free things to do in Madison Wisconsin, just head outdoors.

As mentioned above, the city of Madison is home to five lakes, two of which are on opposite sides of downtown.

Pictured above is Lake Mendota which is the largest of the city’s five lakes and sits to the north of downtown. Across the city you’ll find Lake Monona on the south side of downtown.

The remaining three lakes are Lake Wingra, Lake Waubesa, and Lake Kegonsa which are all located south of downtown Madison.

Lake Wingra sits just north of the UW Madison Arboretum and Kenry Vilas Zoo, which can make for a nice day trip just outside the city center.

Visitors to Madison can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, sailing, and even kite surfing on the lakes. You’ll find equipment rentals at various locations around each of the area’s five lakes.

One local option is Madison Boats which offers rentals starting at $16 for the first hour for kayaks and stand up paddleboards. Visit their website for details and the rates for other rentals.

If you prefer to explore the lakes without getting on the water, you will have access to hundreds of miles of local hiking and biking trails all around Madison and the five lakes.

One such example is the Monona Lake Loop, a 12 mile loop trail around Lake Monona which is reported to have some rather impressive views of the city.

Another nearby option is the 1,200 mile long Ice Age National Scenic Trail which winds through the state. You can find access points for the trail several minutes south of downtown.

If you’re looking for a bike, head to one of Madison’s B-Cycle stations, the city’s public bike sharing program. There are multiple locations across the city and downtown.

4. See an event at Monona Terrace

Monona Terrace

Monona Terrace is an event space and convention center designed by influential architect and Wisconsin native, Frank Lloyd Wright.

The Monona Terrace community center hosts a wide range of events throughout the year including rooftop concerts during the summer months and the Dane County Farmers Market during the winter.

While live events are currently on hold they are expected to return over the summer months. Be sure to visit the Monona Terrace website for up to date information.

In the meantime visitors can still enjoy the rooftop terrace which is open daily at 8:00 a.m., or just pay a visit to admire the architecture.

5. Take a walk on the UW Madison campus

UW Madison Campus - Things to do in Madison Wisconsin

It’s no secret that Madison is a huge university town and UW Madison just so happens to be a beautiful campus and well worth a visit.

I recommend saving your stroll through campus for the weekend. This way you’ll avoid the crowded walkways while students are going from class to class.

If you’re starting out near Capitol Square you can walk down Langdon Street, which is also the university’s Greek Row. Langdon Street will take you all the way to the university campus and makes for a nice walk.

Once on campus be sure not to miss Camp Randall Stadium where the Badger’s play their home games. You should also stop by the Allen Centennial Gardens, a public outdoor garden and Memorial Union Terrace which sits along the shores of Lake Mendota.

6. Walk down State Street

State Street Madison

From the UW Madison campus you can follow the city’s famous State Street back to Capitol Square.

State Street is a pedestrian only street lined with bars and restaurants frequented by the university’s students. It’s the place to be on weekend nights if you’re in your 20s.

Those of us not in our 20s can still enjoy a visit, but may wish to avoid those rowdy weekend nights. If it’s lunch time stop into one of the many local restaurants for something to eat.

You’ll find plenty of options to choose from including vegan options, pizza, thai, sandwiches, sushi, and more. Just stop in to wherever looks good.

7. Visit Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

The Olbrich Botanical Gardens are a 16 acre outdoor display garden and tropical conservatory located a short 15 minute drive from downtown Madison.

During your visit be sure not to miss the Thai Pavilion and Garden, it’s the only one in the continental United States. In addition to the pavillion you’ll also find a Rose Garden, Perennial Garden, Herb Garden and Sunken Garden.

The pavillion is also a perfect spot for photographs, though you’ll need a little patience to get pictures without other visitors.

To the left of the main entrace you’ll also find the Bolz Conservatory which features a 50-foot-high glass pyramid with tropical plants, orchids, free-flying birds, butterflies and even a waterfall.

The Olbrich Botanical Gardens open daily at 10:00 a.m. There is free admission for the outdoor gardens and just $6 for the Bolz Conservatory.

8. Tour Madison’s Museums

Wisonsin Veteran's Museum

Many of the best things to do in Madison Wisconsin happen to be located in downtown, this includes many of the city’s top museums.

You could literally spend days visiting Madison’s museums, so I recommend selecting a few that really interest you and going from there. Here are a few to choose from:

In addition to the above, there is also another museum that is one of my own favorite places in the city, the Natioanal Mustard Museum. You can read more about my visit to the Mustard Museum below.

9. Sample mustards at the National Mustard Museum

Mustard Museum

In my opinion, one of the most unique things to do in Madison Wisconsin is to visit the National Mustard Museum. It’s both fun and quirky, and offers an experience unique to Madison.

Visitors to the Mustard Museum will learn about the history of mustard and have the opportunity to view the world’s largest collection of mustard and mustard memorabillia.

Visitors can even sample various types of mustard and of course, take some to go. There’s a mustard shop on the first floor with more varieties of mustard than you ever knew existed. Ask the staff for recommendations if you don’t know where to start.

The National Mustard Museum is open Monday through Thursday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m and Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The museum is closed on Sunday. Admission if free.

Tip: After the Mustard Museum make the 6 minute walk over to Capital Brewery, a local favorite for German style lagers. More on Capital Brewery below.

10. Sample Madison’s best craft beers

Vintage Brewing Co.

After you’ve finished sampling all the delicious and unique mustards at the National Mustard Museum, it’s time to wash them down with another of Wisconsin’s famous exports. That’s right, we’re talking about beer.

Lucky for you, you’ll find no shortage of breweries in and around Madison from which to sample local craft beers. If you’re in town for a while I recommend trying more than one. Here are two of my favorites to get you started.

  • Vintage Brewing Company: I loved Vintage Brewing Company for their lively atmosphere, fantastic food, and the fact that they had ciders on the guest tap.
  • Capital Brewery: I loved Capital Brewery for their delicious German style lager beer which they’ve been brewing since way back in 1986. The staff are also incredibly friendly. If visiting during the summer months they also hold live events at the brewery, which I’m told are really fun if you happen to be in town.

Best Hotels in Madison Wisconsin

AC Hotel Madison

If you’re looking for a hotel I highly recommend staying in downtown. From downtown you’ll be within walking distance to most of the best things to do in Madison including the Wisconsin State Capitol, the lakes, the UW Madison campus, and many museums, restaurants and bars.

Here are a few of my recommendations on the best hotels in Madison Wisconsin:

  • AC Hotel Madison: This is where I stayed and I love it. The hotel is affordable and has incredible views of the Wisconsin State Capitol. The image above is taken from my room. The hotel also has the Eno Vino Wine Bar and Bistro on the 10th floor, which serves excellent food and wine with a view.
  • The Edgewater: This is a luxury hotel on the shores of Lake Mendota. This is where you stay if you want to treat yourself to the best hotel in the city. Rates are surprisingly affordable at around $229/night and up.
  • Hotel Indigo: Hotel Indigo is a good choice in any city. They have stylish rooms and quality amenities.

I hope reading about the best things to do in Madison Wisconsin has helped inspire you to plan a visit of your own. If you’d like to read about more destinations in the USA head over to my page on United States travel.

This post was brought to you in partnership with Destination Madison. However, the thoughts and opinions expressed here are entirely my own.


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Eden Fite
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Things to Do in San Ignacio Belize

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Things to do in San Ignacio Belize

If you’re looking for all the fun things to do in San Ignacio Belize look no further.

I recently returned from two weeks in Belize and am extremely excited to share this amazing destination with you. I found San Ignacio to be one of my favorite places in the country and can’t wait to go back and visit again.

San Ignacio is home to Mayan ruins, rivers, caves, waterfalls and jungle habitats. It’s a true paradise for those seeking adventure.

I’m going to share below all my favorite spots from my recent visit to San Ignacio, along with some tips to help you plan and enjoy each location.

Let’s get to it.

How to get from Belize City to San Ignacio Belize

San Ignacio Travel Guide - Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins

San Ignacio is located in an area of Belize known as the Cayo District. It’s about an hour and 45 minute drive inland from the Belize City airport, also known as the Philip Goldson International Airport, and just a short 20 minute drive to the Guatemala border.

Roads in Belize are mostly single lane but well paved. If you choose to rent a car, driving will be easy here as there is not much traffic and roads are well marked. Do be cautious when driving at night though as street lights are rare outside the city.

If you prefer not to rent a car, you can also get from Belize City to San Ignacio Belize via a few other transportation options. Here is a breakdown of the cost for each option.

  • Local Bus: $10 USD each way
  • Private Shuttle: $200 each way
  • Taxi: $100 – $150 each way. Taxis here do not have meters so you negotiate this price. Remember, this is a 90 minute drive and they’ll need to drive back, most likely without a customer.
  • Airplane via Maya Air: $225 each way or $388 round trip. Flights are just 15 minutes giving you the shortest travel time. You would book your flight from Belize International Airport (BZE) to Maya Flats. The Maya Flats airstrip is just 10 minutes from San Ignacio.
  • Hotel shuttle services: $150 – $200 depending on the hotel you stay at.

No matter which option you select, you should experience a relatively smooth transfer to San Ignacio. Belize is a small country with minimal congestion and traffic.

Xunantunich

I’m not gonna lie, Xunantunich surprised the heck out of me. The friend I was traveling with planned the trip so I didn’t bother reading about any of our destinations in advance.

When we walked in to Xunantunich I couldn’t believe how big and beautiful these Mayan ruins were. We were also the first ones there in the morning so we had the whole place to ourselves. It was amazing.

I suggest making Xunantunich one of your first stops while in San Ignacio and plan to arrive right when they open. I promise you’ll be glad you did.

The morning hours will have better lighting for your photos, you won’t have to crop other people out of your pictures later, and it’s just an incredible experience to have a place like this all to yourself for a while.

Canoeing on the Macal River

Canoeing the Macal River

Canoeing down the Macal River is another popular activity in San Ignacio. The river is mostly calm, though there are some sections of very light rapids to propel you along.

A ride down the river will run about an hour or so and you can opt to have a guide join you as well. Our group booked our canoe trip through The Lodge at Chaa Creek. The cost for the tour was around $40 USD.

You’ll drive out to Chaa Creek where you’ll get set up in your canoe and provided with some brief instructions on how to paddle downstream.

The ride will take approximately 2 hours and you’ll be picked up in San Ignacio. From there, you can arrange to return to Chaa Creek or be taken back to your hotel.

San Ignacio Town

San Ignacio Town

While the majority of this San Ignacio travel guide focuses on adventure opportunities around the area, you do not want to miss spending time in San Ignacio town.

This small city sits on the banks of the Macal River and is small enough to explore on foot. Spend a few hours walking around town and along the river.

Be sure not to miss the San Ignacio Market and the San Ignacio sign. You’ll also see food stalls along the streets as you wander around the city. Stop for whatever looks good to you, it’s an affordable and delicious way to have lunch.

Cahal Pech

Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins

The Cahal Pech Maya site is located on a hilltop right in the town of San Ignacio. It is reported to be one of the oldest known Maya ruins in western Belize.

Cahal Pech is home to over 30 structures, including its tallest temple standing over 80 feet high. Visitors to Cahal Pech can climb the stairs on the various structures and walk through the site’s many stone walkways.

During my recent visit my friends and I were the only one’s there. This is a large and impressive Maya site, but I believe it is often overlooked in place of nearby Xunantunich.

If you plan to visit, arrive early to avoid the heat and humidity. You may also wish to bring bug spray for this one as the site is in a jungle type of environment.

If you still haven’t seen enough Maya sites on your vacation yet, you can also make the 2 hour drive down to the Maya Ruins of Caracol. This site is located in the foothills of the Maya Mountains and is believed to have been a major political center for the Maya.

Green Iguana Conservation Project

San Ignacio Iguana Project

If you’re looking for something unique and educational to do during your time in San Ignacio, I recommend paying a visit to the Green Iguana Conservation Project.

The Green Iguana Conservation Project is housed on the grounds of the San Ignacio Resort Hotel. You do not need to be a hotel guest to join a tour.

On the guided tour you’ll learn all about the life of the Green Iguana and the conservation efforts at the Green Iguana Project. You’ll also have the opportunity to hold a Green Iguana if you so choose.

Those wishing to contribute can adopt and name a baby Green Iguana during their visit. You’ll even get a ceretificate and a feature on their instagram page.

The Green Iguana tours run daily at 9:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. You do not need to register in advance, just show up in the lobby 15 minutes before your tour.

The cost for the tour is $11.25 USD per person.

Rio Frio Cave

Barton Creek Cave

If you’re looking to explore outside the city for a day, head over to the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. The reserve is home to many outdoor adventure opportunities, including the Rio Frio Cave pictured above.

Rio Frio Cave is considered one of the best cave systems in Belize and easily accessed via a short 5 minute walk from the parking area.

The mouth of the cave is 65 feet in diameter and the cave system spans about a quarter of a mile. This is a place to explore and take pictures. If you have kids, they’re going to love it.

Inside the cave you’ll find fresh water pools, stalactite formations, and plenty of boulders to climb on.

Rio on Pools

Rio on Pools Belize

Also located in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is Rio on Pools, a series of waterfalls and fresh water swimming holes. This is seriously a cool place to experience in person, I highly recommend making time for this one.

Bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and water shoes for this one. You’ll need all three as you make your way from one swimming hole to the next.

You should also bring drinks and food so you can have a picnic while you’re here. There are grills on site as well if you’d like to cook your food.

Rio on Pools is just a 10 to 15 minute drive from Rio Frio Cave, so you can fit them both in the same day trip. You’ll want to start at Rio Frio Cave then head to Rio on Pools.

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Actun Tunichil Muknal, referred to locally as the ATM cave is an ancient Maya site that includes skeletons, ceramics and stoneware. You’ll find the ATM cave about 45 minutes east of San Ignacio in the Tapir Mountian Nature Reserve.

Guided tours through the ATM cave are rather strenuous and guests should be comfortable hiking, swimming, climbing over rocks, and squeezing through tight spaces.

The tour is incredibly interesting though and you’ll get to see some really cool things. Unfortunately, pictures are not permitted, so you’ll have to take my word for it. It’s an adventure, and a fun one at that.

If the ATM tour seems a bit too intense, you can also try Jaguar Paw Cave located a bit further east. At Jaguar Paw you’ll get to try cave tubing while you learn about the Maya and the interior of the caves in Belize.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to the best things to do in San Ignacio Belize and that I’ve helped inspire you to book a trip of your own. If you’d like more information on planning your trip to Central America, you can check out my other Belize travel guides.

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The Best Caye Caulker Snorkeling Tours

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Caye Caulker Snorkeling Tours

Caye Caulker snorkeling tours are extremely popular when visiting the islands. The reason for this is that Caye Caulker is just a few thousand feet from the Belize Barrier Reef.

You can see the waves crashing into the reef from shore.

People come from all over the world to snorkel and SCUBA dive at the Belize Barrier Reef and to dive at the Blue Hole, a large sinkhole in the ocean about 43 miles offshore. While the Blue Hole isn’t much for snorkeling, the barrier reef is fantastic.

The Belize Barrier Reef is one of the largest in the world, second only to the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Australia. So if you’ve ever wanted to give snorkeling a try, Caye Caulker is one of the best places to do it.

If I’m being honest, the marine life here is off the charts amazing, you really don’t want to miss it. Snorkeling is one of my favorite things to do in Caye Caulker or any island for the matter.

This post is intended to be a comprehensive guide to Caye Caulker snorkeling options available on the island.

There are a handful of Caye Caulker snorkeling trips that you can choose from which are offered at different prices.

I’ll give you an idea of what you can expect to see in each snorkeling spot, and which tours I recommend, and why.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.

Caye Caulker Snorkeling Tours

Snorkel the barrier reef - marine reserve snorkel - day tour - day snorkeling

There are a variety of Caye Caulker snorkeling tours to choose from during your visit. Here are the main tours that depart directly from Caye Caulker.

If you don’t find what you’re looking for there, you can book with Caveman Snorkeling Tours. They run half-day tours twice a day for $45 or full-day tours once a day for $90. They even offer a longer day trip out to see manatees for $110.

The guys working for Caveman Snorkeling are really friendly, so just stop in if you have questions.

Prices for snorkeling tours on Caye Caulker range in price anywhere from about $35 to $125 per person depending on what you’re looking for.

A shorter half-day snorkeling trip without lunch or snacks will be less expensive. Longer full-day tours, especially those that include drinks will be on the pricier side.

There are also snorkeling tours that will depart from San Pedro over on Ambergris Caye, or even from Belize City. You can easily reach San Pedro or Belize City via a water taxi.

This is the same one you arrived on. It will take about 30 minutes to get to San Pedro from Caye Caulker and about an hour to get back to Belize City.

Most snorkeling trips will depart Caye Caulker in the morning around 10:00 a.m. The afternoon departures are around 1:00 p.m.

If you have a large group or just prefer your own boat, private tours are also available. You can inquire at any of the dive and snorkel shops on the island.

Caye Caulker Snorkeling Spots

There are a handful of great snorkeling spots near Caye Caulker that you will have the chance to visit. By great snorkeling spots, I mean some of the best in Central America, if not the world.

I’ve listed the main snorkel spots around the island below along with a vrief description of what to expect at each location.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Hol Chan Marine Reserve - caye caulker belize snorkeling
Photo by Pixabay

Hol Chan Marine Reserve is found north of Caye Caulker on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye. Hol Chan is by far the most popular stop on all the Caye Caulker snorkeling tours. I believe all the tours stop at this location.

Hol Chan is a local marine reserve covering about 7 square miles along the Belize Barrier Reef. The water is crystal clear and you’ll get to see all kinds of sea life here. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

During my recent snorkeling tour we were able to see Angel Fish, Sting Rays, Sea Turtles, Moray Eels, and all kinds of other colorful fish I cannot name. It was incredible and easily my favorite stop on the tour.

There is also a Caye Caulker Marine Reserve which you may also visit. The Caye Caulker reserve runs along the section of the Belize Barrier Reef that runs parallel to the island.

Snorkelers and divers will find similar marine life in both reserves.

Shark Ray Alley

Shark Ray Alley Caye Caulker Belize - Caye Caulker tours
Photo by Pixabay

Shark Ray Alley is located just south of Hol Chan Marine Reserve. This is where you’ll have the opportunity to swim with Sting Rays, Nurse Sharks, and Sea Turtles.

You shouldn’t have any trouble spotting all three if you snorkel here. There are a lot of them, and believe me, you can’t miss them.

I should also note, there is a second Shark Ray Alley closer to Caye Caulker that you may visit as well, depending on which snorkeling tours you select.

Coral Gardens

Belize snorkeling tours - Belize travel
Photo by MLH Tiander from iStock

Coral Gardens is located in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve and is the perfect snorkel spot for beginners due to the calm shallow waters and great visibility.

This section of the Belize Barrier Reef features rows of rainbow-colored coral formations with strips of sand in between. It’s fun to swim up and down all the rows checking out all the different types of coral and fish.

Mexico Rocks

Mexico Rocks is located north of Caye Caulker near Ambergris Caye. It’s about a 20-minute boat ride from the main town on the island, San Pedro.

This snorkeling spot is known for its large boulder-like coral formations which attract younger and smaller fish. The small fish in this section of the reef use the coral formations to hide from larger predators.

In addition to the younger fish, you’ll also see plenty of other marine life like stingrays, turtles, and sharks.

The Wreck

There is a shipwreck just a short distance offshore from San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. The sunken ship is covered in corals so it attracts a fair amount of fish.

This snorkel spot can be a bit less impressive as the water here is a bit rough as it’s located next to an opening in the barrier reef. Visibility can also be poor.

The Wreck tends to be included on the longer all-day snorkel trips, the shorter trips usually skip this one.

What to bring on a Caye Caulker Snorkeling Tour

Belize Vacation Snorkel Gear
Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel from Unsplash

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll want to bring along with you on your Belize Caye Caulker snorkeling tour. Generally, the tour will come with the actual snorkel gear. So you don’t need fins, a mask, or a snorkel. You are of course welcome to bring your own if you like.

Here is what you do need to bring.

  • Towels
  • Flip flops
  • Sun hat
  • Hair tie
  • GoPro or waterproof camera
  • Water
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Snacks
  • Cover up

I recommend at least bringing along what’s listed above, and anything else you think you might need.

I hope you enjoyed this guide to snorkeling tours in Caye Caulker and that I’ve helped you plan your visit. If you enjoyed this post please considering sharing it. As always, thanks for reading.

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Book Your Trip

Find the best flight deals by using SkyScanner. This is the search engine I use to compare flights and prices before booking my own trips.

BOOK YOUR ACCOMODATION
I recommend searching for hotels through Booking.com to compare hotels on amenities, location, and price. If you are a member of a hotel’s rewards program, always book direct with the hotel. If you are not loyal to a specific hotel brand, using Booking.com for the best price.

TRAVEL INSURANCE
Travel insurance is more important than ever. For just a few dollars a day you can protect yourself and your trip. I personally use World Nomads, but whomever you choose, don’t skip out on travel insurance. It can literally save you thousands of dollars.

Eden Fite at Chichen Itza in 2020
Eden Fite
Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

9 Reasons to Visit Sedona in Winter

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Snow in Sedona Arizona
Photo by Equigini from iStock

Sedona in winter is pure magic. The city is quiet, peaceful, and if you’re lucky it’s covered in a blanket of fresh white snow.

Sure, winter in Sedona might come with some rainy days or gray skies, but don’t let that stop you. Like many places, I think a winter visit is best for really getting to know a place.

Since winter is off season in Sedona, you’ll often find yourself alone at even the most popular attractions around town.

So if you’re ready for a beautiful adventure, grab your raincoat and hiking boots and let’s hit the road for Sedona.

1. No crowds

Sedona in Winter

As I mentioned above, Sedona attractions in winter are often empty or at least with minimal crowds.

While visiting Sedona in January I found myself mostly alone at Bell Rock, Cathedral Rock, Chapel of the Holy Cross and Red Rock Crossing.

Those into the outdoors will find hiking in Sedona in January especially peaceful. Even if you do come across other hikers, you’ll have most of the trails to yourself.

You will likely encounter other travelers when visiting Oak Creek Canyon or Red Rock State Park, but not many. Even these normally crowded destinations will be rather quiet this of year.

Trust me, you can do a lot in Sedona in one day without the crowds. Definitely take advantage of this during your trip.

2. Cooler temperatures

Melvin in Sedona in Winter

You’ll definitely be blessed with cooler weather during your Sedona winter getaway.

Sedona Arizona winter temperatures generally range from the mid 30s to the mid 60s. You’ll have some rainy days and cloud cover during this time as well, but don’t be surprised if you get blue skies on occasion also.

3. Tours are not sold out

Pink Jeep Tours in Sedona

You’ll be happy to know that tours in Sedona during winter don’t usually sell out. Since crowds are small this time of year you’ll have plenty of options for tours, even the always popular Pink Jeep Tours.

Of course, some weekends may be busier than others so I would book ahead if you plan to join a tour, but you should have a good selection and plenty of availability during a winter in Sedona visit.

4. Attractions are open year round

Sedona in Winter

For the most part, Sedona is an outdoor destination and it’s beauty lies in its stunning natural landscape.

That being said, there are always things to do in Sedona in winter. Popular Sedona winter activities include hiking the area’s many trails, mountain biking, photography and stargazing just to name a few.

Just don’t forget all the great restaurants and wineries in the area too.

5. Day trips are easy

Grand Canyon Road Trip

Since crowds are so light in Sedona during winter you’ll encounter virtually no traffic around town. This makes for the perfect opportunity to enjoy a few day trips outside the city.

Some of my favorite day trips are below

  • Sedona to Grand Canyon: This one goes without saying, but you’re only 2 hours south of the Grand Canyon. There is also a train from Sedona to Grand Canyon if you prefer not to drive.
  • Jerome: A former mining town now thought to be haunted. This is a very cool hillside town known for its many artists and musicians. Jermone is about 40 minutes from Sedona.
  • Verde Valley Wine Trail: You’ll find the Verde Valley Wine Trail about 25 minutes outside of Sedona.
  • Horseshoe Bend: This is a popular destination for photographers about 3 hours north of Sedona.

6. Hotel prices are much lower

Hotel in Sedona

Since you made the wise decision to visit Sedona in winter you’ll also be rewarded with very low hotel rates.

In fact, you’ll find most hotels with plenty of availability between December and February along with room rates well below those of spring and fall.

The exception to this rule is that you will see price hikes on and around major holidays. Watch out for Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and Valentine’s Day if you’re looking for a hotel deal.

7. Dinner reservations are easier to get

Soup from Elote Cafe in Sedona

Besides all the great room rates in winter, you’ll also be happy to know that dining reservations are much easier to get between December and February as well. The same exception to holidays is in play here as mentioned above.

In general you should be able to get a table at most restaurants in the city during your visit. I would stil book these before you arrive if possible, but you should have no trouble if making a reasonable effort to plan ahead.

8. You can play in the snow

Winter in Sedona
Photo by M. Designer 125 from iStock

Another benefit of a Sedona winter visit is the possibility of snowfall during your trip. As you can imagine, the Sedona landscape is absolutely beautiful under fresh snowfall.

I was lucky enough to get to experience this during my winter Sedona visit as well. I can confirm, it’s amazing.

9. Holiday activities

Christmas in Sedona

If you’re looking for a cozy and fun place to spend the holidays, consider a Sedona holiday getaway. The city is super fun during Christmas and New Year’s.

You definitely need to make those accomodation reservations very early though, as hotels will sell out over the holiday season. The same goes for dinner reservations. Make your plans early to secure a table at the city’s most popular restaurants.

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about my favorite reasons to visit Sedona in Winter. If you’d like to support this blog please consider sharing this post. As always, thanks for reading.

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Eden Fite at Chichen Itza in 2020
Eden Fite
Part-time Traveler | Dog Lover | Avoider of Crowds

I help busy people find creative ways to travel more.

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links on this page may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to supporting this site.