Contrary to popular belief, Las Vegas, Nevada, offers a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the southwest, with southern Utah standing out as a must-see destination. The journey begins with a three-hour drive to Zion National Park, with the option to detour through Valley of Fire State Park. Here, ancient petroglyphs and sandstone formations like Elephant Rock create a photographer’s dream.

Rejoining the highway, a stop in St. George offers a chance to refuel—Riggatti’s Wood Fired Pizza is our top choice—and nearby Snow Canyon State Park beckons with lava tubes and scenic trails for exploration.

Crossing the state border into Utah, Zion National Park awaits with its breathtaking views, whether gazed upon from the canyon floor or from heights like Observation Point and Angel’s Landing. An overnight stay here adds to the experience—glamping or camping under a canopy of stars is the ideal way to spend an evening in Zion.

At dawn, a quick pick-me-up from Deep Creek Coffee Co. provides the perfect start to your day. From there, Bryce Canyon National Park offers the otherworldly beauty of its hoodoo-filled Queen’s Garden Trail. For those seeking more adventure, the journey back to Las Vegas can include a stop in Kanab to visit the Coral Pink Sand Dunes, completing an unforgettable and thorough exploration of the region’s natural wonders.

Bar Harbor, Maine, often draws crowds in the Northeast, but Boothbay Harbor offers a more tranquil and equally enchanting New England coastal escape. Spend a serene afternoon kayaking to Burnt Island, an island that can only be reached by boat. Renting a kayak from Tidal Transit opens the way to paddling under a charming footbridge at the marina’s edge, leading out to open water. A curious harbor seal may even make an appearance along the route.

Burnt Island features a picturesque lighthouse that dates back to 1821 and is a perfect spot for a picnic. The refreshing sea breeze accompanies sweeping views of the Atlantic’s rolling waves. Back on shore, the experience continues with a leisurely stroll through quaint seaside shops, savoring a lobster roll at a converted tugboat restaurant.

An overnight stay at the Bluebird Ocean Point Inn provides a cozy waterfront retreat. This recently renovated historic inn reflects the charm of classic seaside cottage tourism. Its restaurant elevates the experience with candlelit dining and ocean views, making it easy to indulge in another delicious lobster roll.

The Adirondacks, a mountain range in northeastern New York, truly come alive when explored by boat, gliding through serene rivers and lakes accompanied by the calls of loons and the playful antics of river otters. Canoe or kayak rentals offer a peaceful way to experience the interconnected lakes and escape the busy tourist areas. Services like Raquette River Outfitters can handle planning, pickups, and drop-offs, tailoring routes to match any timeline or interest.

Routes can include adventures like swimming near waterfalls, spotting wildlife, fishing, island hopping, hiking, or primitive camping for a deeper connection with nature. A multi-day paddle through the Adirondacks’ tranquil waterways offers an unmatched sense of serenity.

There’s no better way to end the day after reconnecting with the wild than a hearty meal at a local brewery like Hex and Hop. Known for brewing with local honey, the brewery provides a chance to toast to a successful paddling adventure before transitioning back to the rhythms of everyday life.

The Florida Keys offer an unforgettable journey along the 110-mile Overseas Highway, where each island in the 120-mile chain has a unique character. The drive reveals a blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and adventure.

The first stop, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, is the nation’s first underwater preserve and offers opportunities to explore the area’s stunning marine life. For accommodations, the adults-only, all-inclusive Bungalows in Key Largo provide a relaxing retreat.

Islamorada, known as the “fishing capital of the world,” is perfect for sports fishing and unwinding at the beachfront Cheeca Lodge & Spa. Getting around is made easy with Freebee, a complimentary electric shuttle service throughout the area.

In Marathon, the Florida Reef—the only living coral barrier reef in the USA—offers exciting opportunities for chartered boat trips to fish, snorkel, and swim. A visit to The Turtle Hospital adds a unique touch, showcasing local efforts to rehabilitate sea turtles at the world’s only licensed veterinary hospital dedicated to their care.

These wellness retreats offer more than just an escape—they provide an opportunity to reconnect, recharge, and rediscover what truly matters in a world that pulls us in a thousand different directions each day.