When planning a summer vacation, one of the first things people consider -- aside from amusement parks and laying by the beach -- is crowds. Where can I go where I won't be mobbed by people? And what can we do that's a little different? Keeping those things in mind, we've put together a list of five top summer destinations for families that you may have not considered!
Roswell, New Mexico: You may have heard of Roswell, a southeastern New Mexico town featured in numerous movies about an alien spaceship occurrence in 1947. Whether you believe the stories or not, the possibility is reason enough to make it a stop on your summer road trip. Even if it’s not your end destination, its location makes it worthy of a day or two on your way to Phoenix, Southern California or Texas. Not only are there museums and sites dedicated to the lore, but there’s also an amazing zoo at Spring River Park and Zoo. Nightlife, other museums, culture and local food makes it a fun family-oriented place to explore!
Mammoth Mountain, California: Skiing in summer? Maybe, maybe not — some mountains are pretty tall and snow does remain, but even if you can’t ski, Mammoth Mountain provides an outdoor adventure destination that many forget as an off-season destination. So much to do with or without snow! Stay on-site of the slopes, ride a sky gondola, hike, enjoy top of the line restaurants, rent a bike, get a spa treatment or go golfing. Shop. Relax. There’s even day care if you want a night out without the kids and summer camps to give kids the nature experience you may not get on the daily at home. Mammoth isn’t just a winter destination but makes a great place to spend your summer! Just about a five-hour drive north of Los Angeles, you can hop in your rental car and be there in no time!
ICEHOTEL, Sweden: It's the stuff dreams are made of, not just in that romance movie you saw last week. Begun back in 1989, it is remade yearly, every winter as the weather changes. There is also a new permanent structure if staying in a cold room isn’t your thing but you still want to check it out. (In fact, ICEHOTEL recommends you don’t spend your entire stay in one of the ice rooms, where you are provided a special sleeping bag so you are sufficiently warm and comfortable.) If you choose not to stay there, guided tours are offered year-round. It’s also a popular wedding location. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime travel experience, the ICEHOTEL is your go-to!
Bar Harbor, Maine: Maine is a beautiful state full of nature and cultural events but due to its location, it’s often forgotten when people book their summer vacations. It’s time to change that! The state is an outdoor-lover’s paradise yet has enough big cities to provide the nightlife and pampering you may want. Bar Harbor is also only a 3.5-hour ferry ride to Nova Scotia, so you can park your car and spend a couple of days in a whole different world. Bar Harbor’s on an island off the coast but accessible via a causeway that makes for a picturesque drive. Hikes, lake views, water sports and dinners overlooking the ocean, these are the things that beautiful vacations are made of. Relax and adventure to create a memorable vacation.
Nunavut, Canada: Never heard of it? Don’t feel bad, a lot of people haven’t. It was newly recognized as a Canadian territory only in 1999 and lies on the north end of the beautiful country. (Did you know Canada is the second-largest country, second only to Russia?) Nunavut is a large territory, where you can camp, hike, watch the Northern Lights without obstruction, canoe or just enjoy a vacation feel at a high-end resort. Cruises, birdwatching and every outdoor activity you can imagine is available. See wildlife, kayak in glacier waters, or take in views of flowers in an environment you don’t normally envision. Nunavut is a destination for all ages, with a definite lean towards those who want to have adventurous opportunities immediately available. Due to its location, hotels may cost a little more than the southern parts of Canada, but some include food so inquire upon booking. You’ll find this is a unique trip for sure!
Wherever you plan your vacation, Fox can help you if you need a rental car. Book online for our lowest rates, and be sure to check our Deals page for the latest coupons available. We offer car rentals of all varieties to ensure you and your entire party are comfortable and have adequate space for all of your luggage. Let us help you save money so you can have the best summer travel possible!