The Explore All 50 States Project
Let's Go!
Unfortunately, airlines are now charging for checked bags. With everyone having their own bag, that can really add up. In addition, you are probably going to be lugging your suitcases in and out of the car on a daily basis if you cover a lot of ground like I do. So here are a few tips on packing to make sure you have all you’ll need while traveling as light as possible. 1. Sharing bags When my kids were … [Read more...]
I remember being in the car with Shari and the kids and seeing the enormous mountains in the distance as we left Montrose heading to Silverton. They were ominous and awe inspiring and in that moment we channeled our inner pioneers and headed on the road toward the mountaintops. Colorado is such a peaceful and beautiful place and yet the power of nature is everywhere from the white water in the rivers to the steep … [Read more...]
How cool is it to simultaneously be in four states at once! You can do just that at the Four Corners National Monument which is administered by the Navajo Nation. Beware, it was about $3 per person to enter and the concessioners have a tendency to up their prices just because. After posing for photos on the monument marker we decided to peruse the stands. I wanted everyone to taste Indian Fry Bread to add to our … [Read more...]
Another truly modern marvel, The Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in the world, hanging 956 feet high and spanning a quarter mile across the canyon. Unfortunately this is one of those stops where I just didn't have the time to fully explore-we just took a peek. The park also has rides, shows, and other attractions that sadly we missed to, but if you have the time, this is a great place … [Read more...]
The Black Canyon of The Gunnison has some of the most incredible rock formations we have seen anywhere. We thought it would be a great place to stretch our legs, take in the views and catch a break from the car for just a bit. There are trails to hike if that’s your thing, but were content to just take in the sites from the viewing platform. There is a visitor center which can come in handy if you need any … [Read more...]
Mesa Verde National Park, (Mesa Verde being Spanish for green table), offers a spectacular look into the lives of the Ancestral Pueblo people, the Anasazi, who made it their home for over 700 years, from A.D. 600 to 1300. Today, the park protects nearly 5,000 known archeological sites, including 600 cliff dwellings. These sites are some of the most notable and best preserved in the United States. Be prepared to hike … [Read more...]
Who can say no to free samples of chocolate?? Not I! While Russell Stover is not my favorite chocolate, it was fun to see and sample some factory seconds. Misshapen candy can be pretty hilarious, and it’s still something my kids and I laugh about to this day. … [Read more...]
There's nothing like the fresh air in the Rocky Mountains to stir up a hearty appetite and you'll find no better place satisfy that hunger and fuel the rest of your day than Starvin' Arvin's in Montrose Colorado. Out on the road this place was a godsend serving up hearty fare to satisfy everyone's cravings. In fact, eating at Starvin' Arvin's was one of our most memorable breakfasts of all time. The eggs were … [Read more...]
I am so glad we took the time to visit the Ute Indian Museum because I had never heard of the Ute Indians before. We learned all about their history, their arts and folklore, and their daily life. As we took our time wandering around, we were mesmerized by the beautiful examples of the fine bead work on a variety of items that Utes used in their daily life. We saw and amazing feather headdress worn by the chief … [Read more...]
After a thrill a minute lunch at Chili's in Pueblo where Joel had a complete meltdown, we let the kids blow off a little steam at the Rock Canyon Waterslide near the Reservoir. It was a little tough to find-scratch that, it was really hard to find, but once we did, everyone had a great time. Lilia, Maya, Joel and daredevil Shari each roared down the slide numerous times having a complete blast. Once everyone had … [Read more...]
