With the holidays and obligatory family time in the rearview, you can guiltlessly begin planning your next adventure. Whether you’re outdoorsy, a wino, or music-obsessed, you won’t have to travel far from home for a good time this winter.
Joshua Tree National Park
Despite the oddities of Arizona’s deserts, four hours west of Gilbert the landscape changes dramatically – and abruptly – near Joshua Tree National Park. Strangely shaped rock formations and otherworldly looking plant life combine, fascinating travelers from around the globe.
While Joshua Tree can be scorching during the late spring and summer, in January, expect highs in the mid-60s and lows in the 40s. In February, wildflowers will start to bloom in lower-elevation areas of the park, with blooms peaking in March and April.
Temecula
Yes, Sonoma is breathtaking, but so is Temecula (and it’s way closer). Explore picturesque winery after picturesque winery as you taste your way across the countryside. Book a tee time at one of the many highly rated golf resorts. And browse adorable Old Town Temecula — all in one long weekend, just a six-hour drive from home.
Gem & Jam Festival
It seems too early to start thinking about festival season … yet, it’s time to start thinking about festival season. The Gem & Jam Festival is bringing good vibes to Tucson on Feb. 4-6. Start planning your outfits and get excited for artists like STS9, Shpongle, Lotus, Opiuo, Claude VonStroke, Tauk, and so many more.
It’s artsy, it’s neon, and the lineup is stacked. Plus, the weather in Tucson is pretty much perfect this time of year. To kick the 2022 festival season off proper (and early), grab tickets to Gem & Jem now before they sell out.
Read more about adventures and activities close to home on the Town Commons blog.