Oct 05 2008
Vacation Destinations West of the Mississippi
Honeymoons are always a special time, but you don’t have to break the bank to create wonderful memories. Local destinations can provide you with a unique flavor that you and your new spouse will treasure forever.
With the economy in such trouble, and gas prices continuing to rise, we’ve divided the destinations into two articles - those east and west of the Mississippi River. You’ll find the western destinations below, and can read the eastern destinations by clicking here.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas
Galleries full of beautiful, imaginative pieces created by local artists set the atmosphere in this Ozark town. Eureka Springs earns its reputation as one of the top small towns for artists, and the quality you’ll see in the numerous shops shows why.
Just the layout of the town is a work of art, sidewalks and shops wind upward into the mountainside; town blocks are determined by levels in the mountain rather than distance.
The Great Passion Play is a “don’t miss” in Eureka Springs from April to October, and Opera in the Ozarks provides eight weeks of productions during the summer months.
Best time to visit: Spring and summer.
Ferndale, California
Billed as the “best preserved Victorian village in California,” a Ferndale honeymoon is sure to be a highlight of your married life for years to come. Just be sure to take your camera to capture some of the sights along the way.
February is a fun month in Ferndale. The town’s volunteer firemen compete in Firefighter’s Games, using old-fashioned equipment for a bucketful of laughs. Flea markets, pancake breakfasts, art exhibits, fairs, festivals, and musical productions keep Ferndale a happening - and hopping - destination.
Best time to visit: Year-round; there’s always some type of activity going on in Ferndale.
Guthrie, Oklahoma
If you have a November or December wedding planned, Guthrie, Oklahoma makes a great honeymoon destination. This historical town transforms itself into a Dickens’ village, complete with carolers, merchants, and residents in period costume. You’ll want to get tickets for the annual play performance at the Pollard Theatre.
Best time to visit: November and December for a Dickens’ kind of Christmas; April to experience the history of the town with “‘89er Days;” November for Statehood Celebration Days. Summer months feature regular rodeo events at the Lazy E Arena.
Torrey, Utah
This central Utah town is located just eight miles from Capital Reef National Park. Horseback riding, fly-fishing, ATVing, and hiking in this area provide a rich experience you’ll recall for years to come. The beautiful lakes, mountains, canyons, and forests create a majestic backdrop for great photos, and opportunities for plenty of outdoor adventures.
Best time to visit Torrey: March to October for the most access to all attractions; many close during the winter months.
Custer, South Dakota
If caves, cowboys, buffaloes, and Presidents don’t intrigue you, what about Crazy Horse, Native Americans, chuck wagons, and the Flintstones? The Black Hills of South Dakota offer a memorable vacation filled with one-of-a-kind experiences. Custer makes a great central location for you to visit Mount Rushmore, the Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Be sure to take in a chuck wagon dinner during your visit.
Remember your childhood with a visit to Flintstone’s Bedrock City Theme Park and Campground. You can explore the whimsical amusement park for a day, or extend your stay at the campground facilities. Pitch a tent, park an RV, or rent a cabin - all for very reasonable rates.
Best time to visit: May through September.
Have you ever been to any of these destinations? Share your experiences with us! We’d love to hear from you.
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