Travel and Leisure News

Since opening day in September 1996, the Double Eagle Hotel and Casino has been a long-standing mainstay attraction of the Cripple Creek area of Colorado. Unlike many other Colorado casinos in Cripple Creek and Blackhawk, Double Eagle went to great lengths to ensure their destination was built in accordance with the strictest historical preservation standards so they could enhance the beauty of the town’s Historic District in more than one way.  Double Eagle was the first “Vegas Style Casino” in all of Colorado when opened. If you've ever been to Vegas before, then you know exactly what we mean. At Double Eagle, you’ll be dazzled by high arched ceilings, pristine casino floors, spectacles of vibrant colored lights, plenty of exhilarating slot machines, on-demand alcoholic beverages, outstanding customer service, and so much more. They wanted to bring the essence of Las Vegas to this old cowboy town, and they have achieved that goal. In fact, many visitors have called Double Eagle a “mini-Vegas hotel and casino!”  For the past few decades, the Double Eagle Hotel and Casino has welcomed hundreds of thousands of players with open arms. You’ll enjoy a luxurious stay in one of their 158 recently remodeled hotel rooms and you’ll be a short elevator ride away from hundreds of unique slot machines and games. And with their Premier Club, you can take advantage of discounted meals, comped drinks, seasonal gaming promotions, and much more.  Thanks to a centralized location in the historic district, their just minutes away from all the local hotspots and attractions of our mountain town. Whether you’re interested in regional history or looking for jaw-dropping tourist sights, their staff will help you find all the local activities that speak to you. At Double Eagle Hotel and Casino, they salute our veterans and active military members every day. All active and retired members get $5.00 of CasinoPlay credits every day at the casino. Simply present your Premier Club card and your military ID at the Front Desk, and they'll load your card with your CasinoPlay credits. Eligible members can only redeem their offer once every 24 hours.  Ready to book your stay at one of the best Colorado casinos? Come to the historic Double Eagle and they'll go the extra mile for you during your stay. https://www.decasino.com/      

Come Experience Rocking Z Guest Ranch in Wolf Creek, MT. Horseback riding for all ages and experience riders! Whether you are new to horses or highly experienced, you will have the opportunity to expand your skills.   Learn to work cattle from the back of a horse, ride long trails or play at liberty in a round pen - we do it all. Private and semi-private Horsemanship lessons are always available upon request with no extra charge. Because horses and riding are the center of what Rocking Z does, extra activities are done in none-riding hours.  Families love Rocking Z, because they can cater to what each individual needs. From the horse-crazy teens, to the excited novice, simply playing pool or soaking in the hot tub, families make great memories here. Those who are Experienced Riders have opportunities to work with and ride a variety of horses to suit their desired goals.  Riding here is independent -  their well-trained horses go where they are told, when they are told to and at exactly the speed that is requested of them.   Beginning Riders will find that they learn an enormous amount just by spending plenty of hours each day with and on the horses.  This is a great place to start, so be bold! Guests mention and enjoy how special the Lifestyle is at the ranch and how wonderful the owners, the Wirth Family are to the ranch. Patty and Zack are fifth-generation Montanans, and the ranch has been in Zack's family since 1864.  Patty learned horsemanship from her father, who used horses to hay and work, and from Monte Foreman.  They are your hosts, and share thier lives with their clients.   The  Accommodations are lovely, with spacious en-suite rooms complete with a natural gas fireplace, chairs, and some rooms have air-conditioning.  The rooms are huge, and the beds very comfortable. Enjoy a truly peaceful night, with nothing breaking the silence except the sounds of nature. The Food is ranch-style dining with a twist.  Everything is home-cooked, and there is always Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free food around.  Desserts are often fresh pies and cakes.  Coffee is always available, and we have either Tetley's or Yorkshire tea as well as a range of herbal options. Come check out their website for a full view of all Rocking Z Guest Ranch has to offer! If you do visit we promise you will be in for an experince like never before! https://www.rockingz.com/  

Vacationing in the Mountain West region of the United States offers a breathtaking blend of outdoor adventure, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. A must see is Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming & Montana). Famous for its geothermal wonders like Old Faithful and the Grand Prismatic Spring, as well as abundant wildlife such as bison and grizzly bears. Another popular visit is the Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado).  It Features the most majestic mountain views, alpine lakes, and diverse wildlife. Popular activities include hiking, wildlife watching, and scenic drives. Don't miss Jacksonson Hole, Wyoming! A charming town nestled between the Tetons and Gros Ventre mountain ranges, offering skiing in winter and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife safaris in summer.  Lastly, Breckenridge, Colorado is a picturesque mountain town known for its ski resort, historic charm, and outdoor activities such as skiing/snowboarding, hiking, and mountain biking. All of these places mentioned are a must see at anytime of the year! As for hunting, we recommend checking out Butte Creek Outfitters in Cody, WY. https://www.buttecreekoutfitters.net/  A family-run outfitting business in the heart of the wildest country in America. With over 40 years of experience we strive to offer the best wilderness trips available, in the most scenic country possible. Whether you’re looking for a remote summer or fly fishing trip or the hunt of a lifetime, we can help. With Forest Service Permits on both the Shoshone and Bridger-Teton National Forests all of north-west Wyoming is our playground. They offer large progressive pack trips or smaller family or fishing oriented summer trips anywhere from three to ten days. With two large wilderness base camps and a lodge they also offer elk, mule deer, antelope, bighorn sheep, wolf and black bear hunting. Let their hardworking staff and ranch-raised, gentle horses give you a vacation to remember! Wyoming has some of the best hunting in the Moutain West! If you're looking for a secluded place to relax, but with some outdoor adventure if you want, then head up to Winding River Resort in Grand Lake, CO. Their Cabin Rentals and camping options are surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapahoe National Forest. This mountain setting delivers an array of activities, including horseback riding, snowmobiling and hiking. If you’re interested in boating, fishing and water sports, the nearby Grand Lake, Lake Granby and Shadow Mountain Lake will offer you the ideal opportunity. From staying in one of their comfortable cabin rentals, to utilizing spacious RV and tent sites for camping, to cozying up to the fire at night, you'll appreciate the Rocky Mountains at Winding River Resort! https://www.windingriverresort.com/ Each of these destinations offers its own unique charm and opportunities for outdoor adventure, making the Mountain West region a fantastic choice for a memorable vacation.    

South Dakota offers a variety of vacation experiences, from natural wonders to historical landmarks. The most famous and popular is Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Iconic and majestic, this sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore features the faces of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln. South Dakota has some of the most beutiful and pituresque lands in the country! Starting with the Badlands National Park: Known for its striking landscape of rugged rock formations and canyons, Badlands offers hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and stunning vistas. Custer State Park, is another destination, famous for its scenic drives, wildlife loop road, and herds of bison, elk, and other wildlife. It's a great spot for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.  If you're looking for excellent accomadations, then we suggest Granite Springs Lodge https://granitespringssd.com/ . The Lodge is a well-known lodging and event venue located in Alexandria. It's situated in a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills and granite outcroppings, offering a serene and scenic retreat. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations including rooms, cottages, villas and cabins with lake views Guests can enjoy modern amenities while being immersed in the natural beauty of the area. It also, offers a venue for weddings, corporate events, and other special occasions. It features indoor and outdoor event spaces with beautiful views, making it a sought-after location for celebrations. If you're looking for extensive outdoor adventures, then Spearfish Canyon Lodge is an great option. Located in the Badlands. Not only does it offer great fishing, hiking, UTV off roading, it has excellent dining options and offers a wedding venue as well! https://spfcanyon.com/   So whatever your vacation desires and needs are, South Dakota has plenty of picturesque options awaiting you!      

Minnesota is a fantastic destination for summer travel, offering a diverse range of experiences for all types of travelers. Check out the North Shore Scenic Drive, Explore the rugged beauty of Lake Superior's North Shore. Drive along Highway 61 and marvel at the majestic cliffs, rocky shores, and pristine beaches. For a urban vacation, it's Minneapolis and Saint Paul. Discover the vibrant cultural scenes of Minnesota's Twin Cities. Visit world-class museums like the Minneapolis Institute of Art and the Science Museum of Minnesota. Explore the trendy neighborhoods, dine at top-notch restaurants, and catch a show at the renowned theaters. It's Lake Country! Minnesota is known as the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," and summer is the perfect time to explore its waterways. Rent a cabin on one of the many lakeshores, go fishing or boating, and relax on sandy beaches. Popular lake destinations include Lake Mille Lacs, Gull Lake, and Leech Lake. Another great getaway is in Hackensack, MN. The area offers a delightful summer travel destination, especially for those who love outdoor adventures and serene landscapes. For  accomadations we suggest Hyde-A-Way Bay Resort for great Minnesota memories of family and friends with fun and fishing. Blue skies, clear water, and a vast variety of trees and wildlife make Hyde-A-Way Bay Resort the place to relax, enjoy and soak it all in. Their resort has 16 housekeeping cabins and 14 seasonal RV sites which will accommodate small families to large family reunions. Spacious new log lodge has something for everyone – food, games, gift shop, laundry, ample seating and Minnesota fishing at its best with your own boat or one of ours, basic to luxury or our pontoon. If your looking for a more private and romantic getaway the check out The James A. Thompson House in Lanesboro, Minnesota. It's a charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of one of Minnesota's most picturesque small towns. Here's what you can expect from a visit to this historic inn -  Historic Elegance in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion dating back to the late 19th century. Its architectural elegance and period furnishings provide a glimpse into the area's rich history. Guests can choose from a variety of well-appointed guest rooms, each with its own unique character and amenities. Whether you prefer a cozy fireplace, a private balcony, or a luxurious whirlpool tub, the inn offers a range of options to suit your preferences. Warm Hospitality: The innkeepers at the James A. Thompson House pride themselves on providing warm and personalized hospitality to their guests. From homemade breakfasts featuring local ingredients to insider tips on exploring the area, they go above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. So, whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or relaxation in a Bed & Breakfast in nature, Minnesota has something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.

Nestled in the heart of the 'World's Most Famous Beach', the Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort is just a few steps from the beach and walking distance to many local restaurants, shops and attractions. The beachfront resort features Hilton CleanStay program with enhanced cleaning protocols, 744 guest rooms with stunning oceanfront views, seven different dining options, two sparkling pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, spa, and gift shop. Whether you've been dreaming about spending time at the beach, rediscovering your favorite city, or vacationing closer to home, now's the time to start planning your next beach getaway to Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. Dine on Florida's freshest coastal cuisine, play a game of volleyball with the family, or let loose at Daytona Lagoon Waterpark. Our warm, friendly staff treats you like family from the moment you arrive. Lounge poolside while sipping your favorite drink, or indulge in a unique culinary experience at Doc Bales’ Grill, Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse, Don Ricos Sports Bar & Grill or McCoys Rum Room. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, admiring the natural beauty of Florida's central coast on foot or bike is a must-do Daytona Beach activity. Luckily, the area is blessed with over 60 miles of trails, many of which are located within a short drive of Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort. Whether you want to spot winged beauties on a portion of the Florida Birding Trail or take in stunning views of crystal clear lakes and otherworldly sulphur springs, there's a hiking or biking trail that will satisfy your appetite. For those adventure seekers, Daytona Beach also features iconic attractions and must see landmarks from historical sites to racing destinations. Take a tour of the area with family-friendly activities for all ages including getting behind the wheel of a real race car at Daytona International Speedway, visiting Jackie Robinson Ballpark, thrill seeking rides at the Daytona Beach Boardwalk and more. Start planning your Daytona Beach escape today with Hilton Daytona Beach Oceanfront Resort’s Park, Eat, Play Package and enjoy complimentary valet parking and daily breakfast! 

Wisconsin is a state of four seasons, each with its own charm and beauty. Whether you want to enjoy the colorful fall foliage, the snowy winter wonderland, the blossoming spring flowers, or the sunny summer lakes this summer, Wisconsin has something for everyone. ere are some popular travel destinations in the state: Milwaukee. The largest city in Wisconsin, Milwaukee is known as the beer capital of the world. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it is home to some of the finest craft breweries in the country. Milwaukee also boasts a blend of history and contemporary architecture. Do not miss attractions like the Milwaukee Art Museum and the Harley-Davidson Museum. Best time to visit: June – August.   Wisconsin Dells, often referred to as “The Dells,” is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, waterparks, and outdoor adventures. As the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells boasts an array of thrilling waterparks and theme parks. Families can enjoy slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, go karts, roller coasters and much more! Located only minutes away from all the exciting family fun and adventures’ is the AmericInn Located on Highway 13. A very nice and reasonably priced family hotel, with a pool and passes and packages for water parks. If you are looking for a relaxed and romantic getaway, then we suggest the Old Rittenhouse Inn, https://www.rittenhouseinn.com/ located on Lake Superior in beautiful and picturesque Bayfield, WI. The Inn has exquisite and comfortable rooms with beautiful views along with first rate fine dining! There are plenty of great things to do in Bayfield in the Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall. Visit this beautiful location to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Another wonderful getaway is in Trempealea to stay at "The "Inn on the River" A charming accommodation nestled along the scenic riverbanks of the Mississippi, offering guests a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature's beauty. The inn provides cozy rooms with picturesque views, inviting common areas for relaxation, and outdoor activities like fishing or hiking for guests to enjoy. If you're planning a visit, be sure to check out any nearby attractions or events happening in the area to make the most of your stay! https://www.innontheriverwi.com/ So, whether you’re interested in family fun or romantic getaways, or urban attractions, or outdoor adventures, or simply making memories with good food and good company, Wisconsin has it all!

Driftwater Resort is a family owned and operated lake resort perfect for families! Since were family owned, we know exactly what families are looking for in a vacation! Located on the beautiful cool waters of Lake Taneycomo in Branson, Missouri.  Driftwater Resort is the perfect place for your next family vacation, family reunion, Girls Getaway, Or Guys fishing weekend. The scenic, trout filled lake is only a short skip from our cabins and we are less than 3 miles to The Branson landing and Historic Downtown Branson. The Famous 76 strip, White Water, Silver Dollar City, Branson's shows, shopping and restaurants are just minutes away! All Guest have access to our Swimming pool and 2 Hot Tubs. You can fish from our boat dock or we have boat rentals and kayaks availiable with a new general store opened for tackle and conveince items. Families can also enjoy our playground, basketball court, shuffleboard court and 2 fire pits, all ideal for our family vacationers. Each cabin has its own charcoal grill with picnic tables for guest use. There is plenty of green space for a nice picnic. We also have 2 grills at lake front gazebos.  Our cabins have fully equipped kitchens with refrigerator, stove, oven, and microwave along with dishes, pots, utensils. We also include all linens, towels, and toiletries and a guest laundry area. All Cabins also include Flat Screen TV’s.  Our accommodations and amenities are perfect for a week-long vacation with your family!  We have 3-night minimum stay except June, July and the 1st 2 weeks of August where we have a 7-night minimum (Saturday to Saturday). No cleaning fees on 7 or more nights So, whether it’s a 3-night weekend get-away with friends or a memorable week-long family vacation, Driftwater Resort in Branson has it all waiting for you! https://www.driftwaterresortbranson.com/    

Select either our one or three-bedroom vacation apartments or a two-story, stand-alone five-bedroom vacation home (pictured) – perfect for your next family holiday, fishing trip, or Alaskan sightseeing with our vacation home rentals & lodging in Ketchikan, AK. Feel “almost home” with these fully-equipped accommodations & vacation rentals, including full kitchens, the latest amenities – including WiFi, HDTVs & premium channel packages – and spacious, comfy accommodations. Your Alaskan Adventure Starts Here Arrive and let the fresh, mountain air, sea breezes, and breathtaking scenery transport you to a simpler time – our cozy, inviting accommodations make for the perfect home base for exploring our pristine area: Venture onto the water for a day of fishing and grill your fresh catch on a gas barbecue – available at our fishing lodge & outdoor activities Explore the local area: discover abundant wildlife, lush forests, and unforgettable scenery – only steps from your accommodations Use Ketchikan as your hub to explore the outlying areas and communities, including Misty Fjords National Monument, Prince of Wales Island, Wrangell, and Petersburg, Alaska. We can’t wait to host you in one of our spacious and comfortable accommodations, at Almost Home Vacation Rentals - 907-247-5337 (See our ad in this Travel Guide, in Ketchikan, AK).  

Get away to the Sun and Sand of Florida’s Gulf Coast Cortez Coastal Cottage, a charming 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom cottage, is located 400 feet from the Sarasota Bay waterfront and a short walk to the beaches of Anna Maria Island. The spacious and charming ‘Old Florida’ cottage is fully furnished and has been lovingly restored. Located within Cortez Park, an active yet peaceful 55+ bayfront community, guests have access to a private fishing pier and waterfront seating for spectacular sunsets and wildlife watching. The cottage is professionally managed and cleaned.  Fly direct from Chicago to Sarasota/Bradenton. Cottage amenities include: large livingroom which opens onto the lanai; 2 spacious bedroom suites with well-appointed bathrooms; wood flooring; private garden deck with seating, dining and grilling areas, and an outdoor shower; well-equipped eat-in kitchen; laundry/mudroom; all linens for beds, baths, and kitchen, as well as beach towels (and chairs); WiFi, phone line, and DirecTV; carport; Heat/AC, and more.                                                                                                          Many local attractions are within walking distance of Cortez Coastal Cottage including more than seven miles of white sandy beaches with crystal clear blue waters for boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, sailing, shelling, and other water sports.  Also within walking distance are museums and galleries, bicycle rentals (including e-bikes), as well as parks and nature preserves. Local wildlife includes manatees, dolphins, rays, shore birds, raptors, and sea turtles. Anna Maria Island offers a free trolley for visits to Bean Point, the City Pier, shopping, farmers market, beach market, community theatre, and more.