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Family Fun in the Southwest
Chances are, you’ve seen lots of southwest scenery on TV and movies. Arizona’s Monument Valley has starred in countless westerns, New Mexico’s scenery has shown up on “Breaking Bad” and Colorado’s hip community of Aspen always attracts cameras. California’s coast, of course, appears in everything from commercials to music videos. Pull your family away from the screen and experience these amazing vistas in person.
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Arizona
Arizona’s got it all for families. Explore the vast Grand Canyon’s South Rim, where the gravity-defying Skywalk and IMAX-Grand Canyon dazzle kids of all ages. Marvel at towering saguaro cacti in Saguaro National Park, or take a rip-roaring raft ride down the Verde River. Find more watery fun at Lake Havasu or Yuma on the Colorado River. Cities like Phoenix, Tucson and Sedona offer wholesome activities.
California
California bursts with vacation gold. Cruise along California’s Central Coast to experience amazing beaches, stunning national parks and vibrant cities like San Francisco, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara and Los Angeles. Experience the magic of Disneyland and Universal Studios, then come face-to-face with exotic animals at the San Diego Zoo’s Safari Park. Northern California’s giant redwoods and Yosemite National Park never get old.
Colorado
Colorado pumps up the fun year-round. Places like Mesa Verde National Park and Black Canyon of the Gunnison serve up historic and geological wonders. Rocky Mountain National Park is sure to be a family hit, thanks to its accessible trails, scenic picnic spots and junior ranger programs. In Denver, ignite your children’s imagination at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
Nevada
From the Hoover Dam and historical steam trains to ghost towns and UFO spotting along the Extraterrestrial Highway, it’s easy to hit the family fun jackpot in Nevada. The state is also packed with natural wonders. Relax on idyllic beaches in Lake Tahoe. Gaze at incredible rock formations at Red Rock Canyon, or dive underground to see the Lehman Caves within Great Basin National Park.
New Mexico
Epic landscapes, Old West history and over 300 days of sunshine mean it’s always a good time to visit the Land of Enchantment. Experience the rush of a lifetime as you board down white sand dunes or ride the white waters of the Rio Grande. Keep the whole family entertained in Albuquerque by visiting Cliff’s Amusement Park, Sandia Peak Tramway and Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
Utah
There’s no shortage of outdoor fun in Utah. Discover an enchanting underground world at Timpanogos Cave National Monument. Trek through family-friendly trails to reach awe-inspiring rock hoodoos, ancient petroglyphs, and towering cliffs in Canyonlands, Arches, Capitol Reef, Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks. In Salt Lake City, check out the Natural History Museum, Seven Peaks Water Parks and Lagoon Amusement Park.