The world feels like a scary place right now.
But travel can still be a rare bright spot. It’s one of the best ways to connect with people from other cultures, religions, backgrounds and upbringings—and see just how similar we really are. So, if you’re feeling disheartened or downtrodden, stop scrolling, set down your phone and hit the road.
Venture far from home and share a laugh with a stranger, try a new food, take a dance lesson, play a new sport or immerse yourself in nature.
Whether you want to jet-set around the world or would prefer to stay a little closer to home, these getaways will help you make the most of your summer.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Long popular among vacationing Midwesterners, Mackinac Island is situated in Lake Huron just east of the Mackinac Bridge. This small, tree-covered island has been car-free since 1901—meaning the only way to get around is to walk, bike or climb aboard a horse-drawn carriage. This unique rule gives Mackinac Island a quaint, charming vibe—and the expansive lake views, fudge shops and boutiques don’t hurt, either.
Check into the historic Grand Hotel, which has been welcoming visitors to Mackinac Island since 1887. With its iconic front porch (the longest in the world!), eclectic decor (every room is decorated differently), legendary guest list (multiple American presidents have stayed here) and old-world hospitality, the Grand Hotel makes the perfect home base for a week on Mackinac Island.
While you’re here, lace up your hiking shoes and explore the more than 70 miles of trails and roads inside Mackinac Island State Park. Learn about the island’s Native American history and significance by wandering through the Biddle House, a new museum that tells the story of the Anishinaabek people of northern Michigan. And if you’re feeling adventurous, book a guided kayak or standup paddleboard excursion on the waters surrounding Mackinac Island with Great Turtle Kayak Tours. mackinacisland.org
The Broadmoor’s Fly Fishing Camp in Park County
You’re likely familiar with the Broadmoor, the historic Colorado Springs resort founded in 1918 by Julie and Spencer Penrose. But did you know this iconic hotel has several outposts, including a ruggedly beautiful fly fishing camp in South Park?
Whether you’re an experienced angler or have always been curious about fly fishing, the Broadmoor’s knowledgeable (and patient!) guides will help you make the most of your time on the Broadmoor’s private 5-mile stretch of the Tarryall Creek. Each day, you can spend as much or as little time fishing as you like—and throw in some hiking, cornhole, horseshoes, bird-watching or napping, depending on your mood.
Situated in a remote area of Park County, the camp has seven restored cabins—including some that date back to the 1920s—for guests to retreat to each night. The cozy main lodge serves as a gathering place for gourmet meals prepared by a classically trained, live-in chef. You can also sip “après-fish” drinks on the lodge’s wraparound porch while watching broad-tailed hummingbirds flit around. When darkness falls, head to the outdoor fire pit for smores and stargazing—there’s a good chance you’ll spot the Milky Way. broadmoor.com
Galápagos Islands, Ecuador
Made famous by British naturalist Charles Darwin, the Galápagos Islands are a truly bucket-list destination off the coast of Ecuador. The unusual and highly specialized creatures that thrive on this volcanic archipelago famously inspired Darwin’s theory of evolution when he visited while sailing around the world aboard the HMS Beagle in 1835.
These days, you can spot many of the very same animals Darwin did nearly 200 years ago. That’s because most of the islands in the Galápagos have been protected within the bounds of a national park since 1959, making it a rare bright spot for conservation.
The best way to explore this magical region is on an expedition cruise, like the ones offered by HX. Sail aboard the light-filled MS Santa Cruz II with less than 90 other guests while visiting destinations like Mosquera Islet, San Cristóbal Island, Santa Fé island and more. Along the way, you’ll get to observe iconic wildlife like blue-footed boobies, marine iguanas, Sally lightfoot crabs, sea lions, giant tortoises and sea turtles, just to name a few. It’s the perfect trip for adventurous, wildlife-loving travelers. travelhx.com
Beyul Retreat in Meredith
When was the last time you truly disconnected? No phone, no laptop, no TV, no tablet.
If it’s been a while, consider planning a trip to Beyul Retreat, a ruggedly beautiful property in Meredith, about an hour outside of Basalt. This century-old guest ranch has been transformed into a creative art and nature retreat, perfect for getting off the grid for a while.
Check into one of the 15 cozy log cabins, then spend your vacation exploring the 32 private acres of forests, wildflower meadows, ponds and waterfalls. The Frying Pan River runs right through this scenic haven, which also has trails leading to the expansive White River National Forest. After getting some inspiration from the on-site art installations, enjoy a sweat session in the sauna.
The best part about this property? There’s no cell phone service anywhere, and no TVs. (There is WiFi in the main lodge, if you absolutely can’t live without it.) We’re all so frazzled by our devices lately, and Beyul Retreat presents a golden opportunity to tuck them away and just … be.
Beyul also regularly hosts public retreats, focused on yoga, meditation, food, wellness and adventure. So, if you could use a reset or you just need an opportunity to focus on yourself for a few days, consider bookmarking their calendar. beyulretreat.com
Greenville, South Carolina
Craft beer, a riverside bike path, gorgeous weather, a delicious food scene and ultra-friendly people await in Greenville, South Carolina, which is just a short nonstop flight from Denver. This former mill town has undergone a dramatic revitalization in recent years, and is now a vibrant, thriving destination that should be on your travel bucket list.
Pedal around on the 28-mile Swamp Rabbit Trail, stopping off for a bite on the sunny patio of The Commons food hall or a flight at Southernside Brewing Co. Explore the artsy Village of West Greenville, root for the home team at Greenville Drive game (the minor league affiliate of the Boston Red Sox) and stroll through the Greenville Saturday Market. When it’s time to settle down for the evening, check into the Grand Bohemian Lodge Greenville, a new hotel with views of the Reedy River and its breathtaking waterfalls. visitgreenvillesc.com
Hotel Alpenrock in Breckenridge
Once the snow melts off the slopes, Breckenridge transforms into a lush, green, wildflower-studded destination. Take it all in while staying at Hotel Alpenrock, a brand new property that opened at the beginning of this year.
Located on Peak 9, the 205-room hotel is centrally located between Breckenridge Ski resort and downtown Breck, meaning you don’t have to travel far to take advantage of all that this historic mining town has to offer. Snag one of the 24 suites, which feature kitchenettes, living and dining areas, and separate bedrooms—perfect for families and groups.
For dinner, head to Edwin, the hotel’s signature restaurant and one of three on-site dining venues. It’s named after Edwin Carter, the famed 19th century Breckenridge naturalist whose collection of taxidermied animals served as the foundation for the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Enjoy scratch-made dishes like cornmeal-dusted trout and artisanal pizzas. After dark, head to Canary, a speakeasy-style spot inspired by Breckenridge’s historic prohibition-era dance halls. hotelalpenrock.com
