As life around the country opens up this spring, many of us are itching for a little adventure. From Redstone at SanTan Village, it's a quick drive to Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, where you’ll have an easy time making your weekend getaway. Here are four amazing places to visit on your next flight out. Happy travels!
Bozeman, Montana
For a rugged outdoorsy adventure, you won’t do better than a trip to Bozeman, known as the gateway to Yellowstone. While you’re there, you’ll definitely have to pay homage to Old Faithful and take in the scenery at Yellowstone National Park – the country’s first. Don’t stay too long because there’s plenty more that should make the itinerary. Visit the Missouri Headwaters State Park and camp in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark’s 1805 expedition. Hike in the Custer Gallatin National Forest and enjoy stunning mountain views with the chance to spot a huge variety of wildlife. From kayaking to trout fishing, if it’s something you like doing outside, you’ll love doing it in Bozeman.
Memphis, Tennessee
Just a three-hour flight from Phoenix, Memphis represents a world apart. First things first: On your visit, you’ll have a chance to weigh in on who’s the best pitmaster in Memphis. Check out Central BBQ for their Memphis-style smoked ribs and the decadent BBQ Nachos. Get your barbecue in pizza form, and dine in the Elvis room at Coletta’s, or dig into the signature barbecued Cornish hen at Cozy Corner. After eating your fill and then some, walk it off with a stroll along the mighty Mississippi, then visit the National Civil Rights Museum to remember a critical moment in the country’s history.
Santa Maria, California
Less traveled than either the SoCal beaches or the sloped streets of San Francisco, California’s central coast makes for a cool and comfortable vacation weekend. Make time to enjoy the ridiculously scenic sand beaches at Pismo Beach. Head to the hills for a gorgeous hike at Cerro San Luis Obispo, then wander the streets in SLO’s quaint Mill Street Historic District. A hearty meal of authentic Italian pasta and local Paso Robles wines is calling your name.
Bellingham, Washington
Beautiful and bohemian, this low-key coastal town is the perfect place to experience a slice of Pacific Northwest culture. Get out on the water in Bellingham Bay or Lake Whatcom, and hit the trails in Larrabee State Park for scenic views over the San Juan Islands. If you go in the winter, you’ll get in some memorable skiing at Mount Baker, and you can carve out time to make the short 50-mile drive to see Vancouver, B.C. Of course, any visit to Bellingham means taking advantage of their robust brewery culture. Stops at Kulshan Brewing Company, Aslan Brewing Co., and Wander Brewing are a must – and that’s just a start.
Wherever you’re headed next, stay safe and enjoy the journey! For more ideas on things to do in and around Gilbert, make sure to check out the Redstone at SanTan Village blog.