Month: July 2020

The 2020 Kentucky Derby COVID-19 Version Without Fans

This year has been very unusual in almost every way and the running of the Kentucky Derby will be no different. The ”Run for the Roses” was postponed and moved from the first Saturday in May to September 5th.

Change To September 5th

They did not feel that the regular date in May would work because, without the fans, the excitement would have been muted. The Kentucky Derby racetrack is all about the energy of the fans in attendance. Kentucky authorities felt by moving it to September, health conditions possibly would show improvement, fans would be welcome and feel safe at the track.

September 5th was chosen as the alternate date because of the very limited sports competition on TV on that day. September is also a slower tourism period in Kentucky and there would be plenty of lodging availability in Louisville and surrounding areas.

Changes At Churchill Downs

Make no mistake , it will be very different at Churchill Downs regardless. Tickets are not available at the box office and can only be purchased online. You can only gain entry with mobile tickets. The number of fans in attendance will be limited as well. There will be social distancing requirements.

Masks will be required. Menu selections will be reduced and individually prepared. There will also be hand sanitizer dispensers all around Churchill Downs. Most importantly, all bathrooms, handrails, seating, and elevator buttons will be cleaned constantly throughout the day.

They can’t be sure that this will go off without a hitch. If virus cases go through the roof leading up to the big day, will they have to hold the event without any fans in attendance? No one seems to want to think about that option but it is always a possibility. A lot can happen in the month of August.

Saving Money At The Derby

What I do know is that this all-week event brings in tremendous revenue for Louisville and the state of Kentucky. I get that. It will have to be very bad for them to resort to having a silent Derby day without thousands and thousands of Mint Juleps being sold. Hopefully the medical experts will have a bigger say than the politicians in Kentucky.

If you have plans on attending, these tips will save you lots of money and also ensure a great experience for you. With the proper value travel tips, you can experience more in Louisville and Lexington Kentucky. First of all, don’t overspend on your accommodations. You can spend a fraction of it as a result of some smart planning and prep beforehand. When you come for Derby week in Louisville, consider staying 70 miles away in Lexington for better deals.

Kentucky Derby Fashion

You may think Derby is about the big race but you will see it is about fashion and the tradition! From 12 until 2:30, keep an eye to see which celebrities have arrived on the red carpet for the big race! Plenty of A-listers have been in attendance in the past.

In the sports world, there is not a more emotional moment than when the horses step onto the track for Derby post parade at 6:35 PM which is approximately 15 minutes before the race starts. At that point everyone in attendance sings the traditional “My Old Kentucky Home.”

What Should You Wear?

When you are considering what you will be wearing that day, keep in mind that clothing prices will be higher in the weeks leading up to Derby week because of the demand for them in local stores or online. This is an outfit involving color combinations you may not currently own. Remember that your face mask color can also play into the overall look! There is no such thing as being overdressed for Derby but it is worse to be underdressed. Derby day is a day for dresses. Jeans are not the clothing item of choice this day. Pastels, pinks, yellows, whites, and light blues all work.

For footwear, dress for comfort. Consider not wearing high heels. You are on your feet all day, you will be walking a lot, and it will get uncomfortable. Men will want to look for a bowtie. Fun socks fit in well also.This is definitely not the day to play it safe! Men could focus their pants or shirt with tropical colors like Key Lime, Ocean, Pink, and Citron. The sports jacket is important and you can’t go wrong with a navy blazer. For men’s shoes, loafers are a good choice. You should wear them without socks if you can’t find colorful fun ones. Most men’s Derby hats are solid and inspired by 1920s style.

For the women, choose the hat first then the outfit. Hat can be both large and over-the-top. Don’t overthink it, you cannot make a bad choice. You will see all types of hats there.

Purchasing Affordable Race Tickets

In terms of purchasing tickets, the 1st floor grandstand area, sections 127 and 128 are our recommendation. These are bleacher-style seats, no backs and typically the best value seat option. They are trackside and trackside is where you want to be. The further away from the finish line the less it will cost. The best reason to get a reserved seat is you do not have to arrive early. You will thank us later. Bring a small towel. On the dirty bleacher-style seating, sitting on the towel will keep your pants/dress clean. If it rains you can use it to dry off your seat.

Stay Prepared

It is a long day, with the big race starting at 6:50 PM. As long as you have a reserved seat, no need to arrive before noon. 12:03 is post time for race #4 and the big race is #12. I suggest you plan on picking up a boxed lunch at any of the restaurants in town selling box lunches for the track. You may also pack your own snacks or lunch in clear bags. Make sure it’s smaller than 18’’ by 18’’. Bottled water can save you a lot of money by bringing it in a sealed, clear,and an unopened bottle. Limit of two, 24 oz. bottles per person. No cans, glass bottles or containers. Not only do you save a lot of money because of the very overpriced options at the track, it saves you from standing in very long lines for food. With social distancing it may be even slower. Certainly, by staying prepared, you can avoid the common travel mishaps on your journey.

What About The Mint Juleps?

If you want to try a Mint Julep, skip the $15 one at the track and order a much better one for much less at a fine restaurant that offers outdoor seating.

Prepare For Inclement Weather

They do not allow umbrellas at Churchill Downs so invest in a clear poncho and you still get to show off the outfit you worked very hard on. The poncho may be the most important clothing accessory you cannot afford to forget. It’s a long day so don’t forget your sunscreen. After you see the weather forecast for the day, you will know exactly which items will be needed.

Parking At Churchill Downs

If you are driving there, you have two very good options: Park at Cardinal Stadium, then make the short walk to Churchill Downs or park in the residential neighborhood surrounding Churchill Downs, then walk to the track. Most people do that and save that money. Don’t get sucked in to expensive parking lots of $25 and higher. People will offer their driveways for $10 in most cases and it is easy-in, easy-out.

Flying To The Derby

If driving to the Derby is not a feasible option for you, you will need to plan a flight. Flying to the Derby, landing in Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) is likely your best option. Even though SDF is an international airport, beware it primarily serves domestic destinations. The easiest cities to get a flight to Louisville from are most often Chicago, Atlanta, Dallas, and Charlotte. If you are planning a flight, the airport is only roughly six miles south of downtown. Of course, if you are lucky enough to be within driving range, you may want to consider renting a van or RV for your journey. To help you get prepared, check out our ultimate RV travel guide.

What Else To See On Your Visit

If you are making the trip all the way to Kentucky for the Derby, you should see several sites during your visit. To increase your knowledge about the race, pay a visit to the Kentucky Derby Museum. The museum is located right at Churchill Downs, and offers an abundance of exhibits, artifacts, history, and experiences. In addition, Lousiville, Kentucky is home of world famous boxing legend Muhammad Ali. The Muhammad Ali Center in Downtown Louisville honors his life and legacy through an interactive museum. In addition, be sure to check out his childhood home on Grand Avenue, famous for its bright pink color. In addition, be sure to check out the best local live entertainment and Kentucky Bluegrass music for your upcoming trip.

Predictions For 2021

As of now, the 2021 Kentucky Derby is still on schedule to go as planned. That being said, the current date for the Derby is Saturday, May 1, 2021. However, ticketing capacity for the 20201 version of the Kentucky Derby will still be limited in anticipation of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. If you are interested, you can sign up for your 2021 Kentucky Derby tickets today. Tickets are currently set to start a $3,800 for premium boxes of 6-8 people. Therefore, this may not be the best destination for your solo travel experiences.

Stay safe, wear your mask, watch your social distancing and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime event!

Part 1: Supporting The Black Lives Matter Movement Through Travel And Value Tourism

“History will not be kind to us. So you have a moral obligation, a mission and a mandate, to speak up, speak out and get in good trouble. You can do it. You must do it. Not just for yourselves but for generations yet unborn- John Lewis

This is the first post of an upcoming five part travel series supporting the Black Lives Matter movement…

During this time, I’m taking some time to reflect and think.

I am white, and some of us feel ashamed. White people are not perfect. White people have done some REALLY bad things to other people. Don’t even get me started on what we did to the Native Americans just for the pursuit of land and financial gain. In fact, you can check out our Native American tourism guide to learn more about that.

Even my grandmother did not realize she was being racist when she wore blackface impersonating Al Jolson when she was younger. She was one of millions who saw “The Jazz Singer” featuring one of the world’s best entertainer of his generation. Al Jolson was well known to wear blackface in his performances. The ironic thing about it is that he had a reputation for helping fight racial discrimination in his day.

My grandmother impersonating Al Jolson in a talent show.

Peaceful Protests Across The Globe

We have seen peaceful marches and protests around the world for the Black Lives Matter movement in virtually every city and many are wondering what they can do to support it?

Actual marches can be risky because of the loss of social distancing and people who go to work sometimes can’t find the time to join these groups. Here we try to address some ways to address that while you are starting to make travel plans again for next year. If you are stressing about travel plans and are apprehensive to travel or protest during COVID-19, there are several ways for you to still get involved. For example, share on social media, donate, sign petitions, and speak with your local representatives in government.

Learning Through Travel

Why not combine travel with learning this important history of our country? Going to beaches, amusement parks and wineries are all great and fun but these types of Black History trips will touch you in your core and possibly change you forever. Learning about oppressive history when you visit these sites is essential for travelers of all ages, even during your family vacations.

There are dozens of diverse museums, monuments, and cultural centers across the United States that allow you to learn about, reflect on, and connect with moments in Black History. Visiting these cultural attractions, you can better learn about the country’s horrific history of racial injustice.

As you go to new places, this movement may come up a lot in conversation as you meet more and more people. When Black people you meet want to engage in a conversation with you on the subject, the best thing you can do is NOT try to relate to their situation. If you are not Black, there is no way you can relate what they and their families feel and have gone through. Just be a good listener and learn about their experiences. Ask questions.

If you want to go back to the beginning of African-American history, it all starts with slavery. We have to admit that most white people had never heard of Juneteenth before June 2020.

Why?

We don’t recall it ever being taught in school or making it into our textbooks. Slavery ended on June 19, 1865 and it took until 2020 for most people to realize that was a really important moment in the country’s history. To this day, we cannot get all 50 states to recognize this important day. Did we know that the Civil War in part was about the South wanting to hold on to slavery? What do we know about the transition from Negro, to Colored, to Black, and then African-American? Here is something I came across as one definition. Black vs. African-American: African-American to describe people (groups/individuals). Black to describe an experience, culture. Black with a capital B. When is it appropriate now to use Black vs African- American?

Cultural Insights

Visiting these historic sites, you can obtain a cultural insight into the lives, past, history, and culture of African-American men, women, and children. Visiting these places provides a sense of connection, reflection, and education to visitors of all ages. Every year, American’s travel all over the globe in search of new cultures. Visiting cultural attractions in the U.S provides an understanding of a heavily mistreated and neglected culture within American borders. Consider visiting cultural centers, historic monuments, and museums to develop a cultural insight of racial disparities, injustices, and atrocities that have occurred throughout time.

Black LIves Matter Martin Luther King

Follow The Civil Rights Trail

If you are looking to educate yourself on Black History through travel, one of the best ways to start is by following the Civil Rights Trail. The Civil Rights Trail is a national trail expanding across 15 states and offering approximately 100 historic locations. Visiting the stops on this trail educates visitors about the long, imbalanced, and ongoing struggle for African-Americans’ to achieve equal rights. Some of the most famous stops along the trail include the Washington D.C National Mall, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the location of police confrontations in Selma, Alabama, as well as the historic Edmund Pettus Bridge. Did you know Edmund Pettus was the head of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan? Would’nt be something if they changed the name of the bridge to honor the late John Lewis? I will suggest in detail specific stops to make and black-owned restaurants to eat in while there.

Make New Connections

make new connections

Educating yourself through African-American travel experiences, you can develop a number of strong new connections. While it is impossible to directly relate to the issues that African-Americans have faced throughout history, you can still make connections throughout your experiences. As you visit cultural centers, museums, and monuments, speak with additional visitors, learn about their experiences, their personal history, and that of their families. As you plan African-American travel experiences, be sure to look for ways to build new connections.

Create A Travel Pledge To Fight Racial Injustice

Of course, when you visit new places, it is crucial to create a travel pledge to fight racial injustice. As travelers, we should understand the importance of educating ourselves on different perspectives, cultures, beliefs, and experiences. To start traveling better, stay committed to educating yourself on marginalized groups and underrepresented people when you visit new places. When possible, participate in local protests, have open conversations, and make donations to areas in need. This way, you can continuously work to expanding our learning, and improve the world for more like-minded value travelers.

Travelers all across the globe are planning vacations that honor and show support to the Black Lives Matter movement in the United States. Throughout your travel, there are dozens of cultural landmarks and highlights that you need to visit.  Taking the time to visit these sites empowers you to learn through your travel, follow cultural insights, and make new connections. Consider the points mentioned above to learn about Supporting the Black Lives Matter movement through travel.

strengthen relationships

How Will Your Disney Theme Park Experience Be Impacted By COVID-19?

I rarely write about places like Disney because I focus on Value Travel destinations. I focus on ways to do the best things in travel for a fraction of the cost. Disney is a top dollar trip, very expensive, but I appreciate it for what it means to the world. Factor in admission, possible upgrade experiences, food and drinks all day long, and gift shops, it will cost a small fortune.

Despite all that, it is without a doubt something you should do once or twice in your life. Here is the big question. How do you relax and enjoy your dream day at the theme park if you don’t know for sure you are not interacting with people with the virus? All it takes is one person there out of the thousands who you come across. The rules state you should not enter if you have any of 11 symptoms listed. Do you really think that will stop someone who has planned this trip for a long time? Does anyone really know if they have been in contact with asymptomatic people in the past 14 days? The Coronavirus has changed everything. From the Disney theme park experience all the way to the COVID-19 version of the 2020 Kentucky Derby.

Disney During The Virus

Let’s face it- Disney may never be the same. Will it be magical? It is everything we DON’T want it to be right now. NO social distancing, people walking around you, by you, with you, waiting in line somewhere near you. Wearing masks all day long is tough in brutally hot and humid weather. Young kids are exhausted running around the park all day as it is, with a mask on they will be miserable. Yes, it is the happiest place on earth, but is it when you are always thinking about the virus? When you park how will you get to the park entrance? Shuttles normally are packed. Monorails and buses will have the same issue. Will the wait times be much longer for transportation , food and rides due to limited capacity? As parks prepare to open, more Disney vacationers are stressing about travel plans amidst pandemic conditions. Many travelers are unsure whether to feel safe, if they should still travel, and what precautions they should follow. Without a doubt, Disney wants to capitalize now on the summer season when families usually travel. Not so sure it is the right plan considering public safety issues.

The Return Of International & Out-Of-State Travelers

As you prepare for post-COVID travel, you need to know about the return of far-traveling visitors. Will the international customers come? Will out-of-state residents fly to Orlando? Florida residents seem to be a safe bet to return early on. Expect aggressive marketing campaigns to draw those locals back early and often.

We need to analyze how this is all going to work. Disney keeps talking about reopening plans but always needs to prepare to delay that based on current health conditions. The trends for illnesses change by the week. They not only have to be concerned about the safety of the visitors, but also the thousands of employees potentially exposed at all the theme parks, gift shops, restaurants and offices.

Disney Cruises & International Destinations

There seems to be more questions than answers at this point. The situation is fluid and can change many times. Virus conditions in Florida, California, Shanghai, Tokyo, Paris, Disney cruises out of Florida and all of the other Disney locations are all different, which make it very complicated. All Disney cruises have been suspended until September 15th at the earliest. 255 people on the Disney Wonder have tested positive for COVID since March 1st. As cruises are experiencing shut downs nationwide, many Disney-goers are wndering about the cruise travel predictions post Coronavirus. Each individual location will have to make its own decision. No decision will be uniform corporate-wide.

The Possible Return Of Disney Parks

The great news is that Disney fans have pent-up demand. They want to get out and have fun again, they want to do family vacations again. Disney is normally the choice for all of that. Expectations will also be very high for the same or similar experience that they are used to.

When the Disney theme park of your choice finally reopens, you may not recognize it. Disney World and Disneyland Paris just opened up in mid-July. Mobile ordering of all food and beverages needs to be done instead of standing in long lines. Mask wearing is mandatory while you are running around in less than ideal weather conditions on most days. Enforced social distancing with signs everywhere telling you where to stand in line, even in the bathrooms and gift shops. Limited capacity in all areas, including the parks. Limited dining options? Maybe 25% to 50% capacity instead of packed to the gills?

They are planning “rest areas” where you can have a drink and take off your mask for a few minutes. You will definitely see hand sanitizer and hand washing everywhere.

Current Disney Reopenings

One place that opened months ago is Disney Springs. Masks are required and they check your temperature. You have to wait to get into stores based on occupancy. Doesn’t that sound like fun?

Disney in Shanghai has opened up with online reservations only with limited capacity. They are doing temperature screenings and have closed down all interactive activities, children’s play areas, shows in their theatres, and no photo opportunities with characters. Shanghai Disney, which is 43% owned by Disney, will have contactless payment solutions, masks for everyone 11 years and older, sanitizing and hand washing stations everywhere, and online reservations for admittance to the park. Disneyland in California cap capacity as well. For Disney World you will have to make reservations for dining by phone. No more online. Cashless payment options are now preferred. Germ-filled currency is high risk and unnecessary to take.

Disney Water Parks

Walt Disney World has reopened one of the most popular water parks, Typhoon Lagoon, two years after being shut down due to COVID. Disney visitors will be able to enjoy the lazy river, wave pool and water coaster. However, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park still remains closed. At this time, you do not need to reserve a spot to visit Typhoon Lagoon, though, requirements may change as COVID continues.

Predictions For The Future

In the future, will you have to make reservations to go to a park? Will your entrance ticket be for certain hours instead of all day- all night? That might be the way Disney can make money by charging many customers with turnover throughout the day. How does this affect annual passes and multi-day passes? They will probably have to extend the dates of the annual passes because of all the closures. Special events like the Halloween and Christmas events are up in the air. For those to be profitable you need to fill the park and you know that can’t happen. Parades and fireworks shows may be eliminated to avoid massive crowds at the end of the night all leaving at the same time. Character Meet and Greets are history. Of course, Disney has health restrictions just like there are COVID health restrictions in Miami.

Pricing Concerns

Here is the BIG question. If you charge regular pricing will the customer come? They are definitely getting a more subdued experience and definitely not the experience they have been accustomed to. Can Disney afford to discount if they are only filling half the park? Disney parks historically do not discount at all.

Rides will need to go half empty for distancing. Normally the on-premises hotels offer incredible perks like early admission and if you purchase in gift shops they delivered to your room. How will all this change?

Obviously if Disney still plans to charge full price that may be a risk. They may discount ancillary items like hotel rooms, and other discounts when you are out of the park and in a Disney hotel. They will need to get creative and aggressive. They have just come out with a 4 day pass for $ 49 per day for Florida residents. Attendance must be disappointing if they are willing to be that aggressive.

Face Covering Regulations

With more Disney parks planning on opening up again very soon, it is essential to research the specific face covering restrictions. Being that Disney is an incredibly busy, high traffic amusement park, there are several restrictions you must follow. The thin, flimsy mask you wear to the grocery store still may not be enough to enter the Disney park. If you plan on visiting, familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines. First, anybody over the ages of two, including Disney staff members, must wear a face covering. The mask must fully cover your nose and mouth. Coverings must fit snugly so that you can be fully covered, while remaining hands-free. Required masks must be secured with ties or ear loops to ensure they are secured and fastened at the same time. Disney World had to change their mask policy soon after opening. Now you cannot take off your mask to eat or drink while walking around.

Should You Feel Safe?

Even with the stringent rules and regulations in place, many travelers are still worried on whether or not they should feel safe. Ultimately, deciding on whether or not to vacation during the pandemic is at the discretion of the traveler. Of course, Disney parks, hotels, restaurants, and travel companies are taking the required precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. However, these daily precautions can never fully eliminate the chance of contracting the virus. If you are contemplating visiting the Disney parks, beware that employee temperatures are checked prior to the start of their shift. If employees have a temperature exceeding 100.4 degrees, they are immediately sent home. At the same time, employees that have displayed any flu-like systems are additionally required to stay home. Furthermore, Disney Park officials are committed to wiping down railings, rides, and other frequently touched surfaces as frequently as possible. Before booking your vacation, consider whether or not you will feel safe in the park.

Remember that if you do not feel safe, you should leave immediately, regardless of if you already paid. Ultimately, your safety and peace of mind is more valuable than the cost of a ticket. If this is the case, try experiencing some other local attractions as well. For example, you can always visit Florida Space Coast and Kennedy Space Center.

COVID Character Interaction

Amidst the virus, there are changing regulations for character interaction at Disney Parks. Meeting Mickie and Minnie Mouse, along with all the Disney Princesses has always been a favorite for children visiting Disney Parks. These character interactions were an essential component of family vacations visiting Disney. Unfortunately, up close interactions have been placed on hold throughout the Coronavirus. You will still be able to see your favorite Disney characters from a distance. However, you will not be able to receive the same up-close interactions, hugs, high-fives, and signatures. Currently, at Disney Springs, only the Storm Trooper characters are available performing these modified interactions.

Positive Changes At Disney

Of course, there are many positive changes that can be expected at Disney after the shutdown reopening. First and foremost, the Cinderella Castle has gone bold, flashing new colors of purple, regal, and gold. To help you remember, the castle used to be mainly light grey and pale blue. This was done in honor of the Cinderella movie turning 70 in 2021. Certainly, the royal makeover of Disney’s staple castle will be a positive change to look forward to as you prepare for the post-COVID theme park experience.

You see many more questions than answers. Time will tell over the next few years how this will play out. You may even see Disney locations close and reopen a few times based on the threat of the virus affecting their immediate area. The virus will decide how many years the happiest place on earth will be affected. Ultimately the consumer will make that decision. If demand is lower than expected due to COVID spikes and COVID-19 travel advisories, the company will have no choice but to shut down again.

Popular Places To Add To Your New Mexico Road Trip Travel Itinerary For A 7 Day Vacation

A scenic, relaxing roadtrip through New Mexico is an excellent route for your slow travel vacation. If you want to travel through the heart of New Mexico here is a good itinerary:

You can start with the San Ildefonso Pueblo. You just head East from Los Alamos on SR 502. Just right over the Rio Grande you will see it. They are known for its traditional black on black polished pottery, as well as their red and polychrome pottery. There are also painters, jewelry makers, weavers, carvers, seamstresses, and moccasin makers there. Normal hours of visitation are 8am-5pm, Monday thru Sunday, the Museum opens 8am-4pm, Monday thru Friday. A reservation is not required to visit. The Pueblo’s fees are $10 per carload, $10 fee PER camera permit, $20 fee for video permit. The artisans shops operate out of private homes and open and close at their own discretion.

Call ahead if you have any questions at 505-455-3549 www.sanipueblo.org

Nambé Falls Recreation Area

Next, head further east from there  on SR 502 to Pojoaque exit North onto US 285/84 and drive one mile and turn right onto SR 503. Drive four miles to the Nambe Pueblo on SR 101. It is in the foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.  The Nambé Falls Recreation Area which is nearby, offers swimming, fishing, a double-drop waterfall and camping. Go to the Governor’s Office for information on self-guided tours. If you want some exercise you can hike to Nambe Falls (open April–Oct.).  The falls offer breathtaking scenic viewpoints that are a must-see on your roadtrip.

Call ahead for more information about your visit at 505-455-2036

Santuario De Chimayó

Continue on to SR 503 for 10 minutes and go on to SR 98 to Chimayó. Santuario de Chimayo is well known to the thousands of people who make the annual pilgrimage to this 1816 church for healing and touching the miraculous dirt there. Chimayó is also home to several famous weaving families like the Ortega’s, shops and galleries. Grab a meal at Rancho de Chimayo for some native New Mexico specialties. You will most likely notice roadside stands to pick up the local specialty, red chile powder. Chimayo is the Red Chile capital of the region. You can also get it and other local items at The El Potrero Trading Post which is family owned. They have religious articles, traditional artwork and food specialty items there.

Truchas & Trampas

We are not done traveling yet! Continue on SR 98 and turn right on SR 76. You are now ready for some scenery. With breathtaking, serene viewpoints, this is even an excellent spot for solo travel destinations and experiences. Head to Truchas which is where the movie “The Milagro Beanfield War” was filmed. The town is considered remote due to its high elevation of 8000 feet, did not have paved roads until the 1970’s and it is relatively unchanged throughout time.

Las Trampas is worth a stop to see the very well preserved San Jose de Gracia church. It is a great example of Spanish Colonial architecture. The town itself dates back to the 18th century.

By the way, if you have interest in a fabulous three hour tour, you can get a guided tour that departs from the Santuario de Chimayó location to the historic churches in Córdova, Truchas, and Las Trampas. These three churches, which are rarely seen by non parishioners, are particularly outstanding for their historical and cultural importance and their conservation of santeria altar screens. Frank Graziano, author of HISTORIC CHURCHES OF NEW MEXICO TODAY runs the tours. To see dates available check out www.nuevo-mexico-profundo.com. Tours are $25

Visiting Wineries

Heading west on SR 75 you will find vineyards and other towns worth visiting. At SR 68 turn left and head through Velarde.

Black Mesa Winery In Velarde Is a good stop. They are open Mon- Sat 11-6, Sun 12-5​
Stop by their tasting room to enjoy some of the best wines in New Mexico. All of their wine and hard apple cider are made right on the premises, using only their own and other New Mexico fruit. You can choose from over 30 wines to taste. Of course, ensure you know what kinds of wines you can drink when traveling with allergies. They have hard apple cider on tap, along with New Mexico craft beer. They have daily tours. Call in advance at 505-852-2820.

This adventure is a four hours of driving time round trip.

Chaco Canyon

Chaco Canyon is a must-see destination on your New Mexico roadtrip. The world famous canyon is home to some of the most incredible ancient ruins in the entire United States. One of the best parts about Chaco canyon is that it is never packed with tourists. Therefore, visiting always offers the opportunity to be an amazing profound, intrinsic, and spiritual experience. Visiting at night, you can view an abundance of beautiful stars amongst the incredibly scenery. Of course, remember to bring a travel phone backup battery so you have enough energy to document your day. In the day, Chaco canyon is an excellent spot for guided tours, hiking, biking, camping, and education. As you plan your New Mexico roadtrip travel itinerary, be sure to make a stop at the famous Chaco Canyon.

Take The Scenic Byway

Planning your New Mexico roadtrip travel itinerary, you need to plan on taking the High Road Scenic Byway. The most popular route along the High Road Scenic Byway is traveling from Santa Fe to Taos. This is an excellent route to add to your car or RV travel guide. While most roads traveling towards Taos offer incredible views, none are as spectacular as the scenic byway. The scenery presents dramatic rock formations as you climb the Truchas Peaks. Offering over 65 miles of incredible scenery, the High Road Scenic Byway is a must-see destination on your New Mexico roadtrip itinerary.

Las Cruces

Las Cruces is the southernmost city in New Mexico. More so, it is the jumping off point to reach White Sands National Park, the Organ Mountains and Desert Peaks National Monument. Its a picture perfect location for both sunrise and sunset. In fact, you can watch the sunset while on a hike in the Dripping Springs Natural Area. There are many popular spots to stop to eat including The Shed and the Spotted Dog Brewery. Certainly, consider visiting Las Cruces while on a New Mexico road trip.

White Sands National Monument

Throughout planning your New Mexico roadtrip itinerary, you need to make a stop at the White Sands National Monument. Be sure to calculate the route beforehand. This way, you avoid the most common travel mishaps. White Sands is located approximately fifteen miles South of Alamogordo, New Mexico. The best route is likely by taking Highways 70. Visiting White Sands, bring your sled or purchase one before you arrive. This way, you will be able to hike across sand dunes and sled down sandy, powdery hills. At the same time, there are may tours going around the park if you would like to see more. Planning your New Mexico roadtrip itinerary, you need to visit White Sands National Monument.

Visit The Hot Springs Of Truth Or Consequences

Before you leave town, be sure to soak in the Hot Springs of Truth or Consequences. The town is actually named after the 1950’s game show Truth or Consequences. During the show’s tenth anniversary, the host offered to broadcast live from any town willing to officially name itself Truth or Consequences. Eventually, the town of Hot Springs New Mexico accepted the challenge and officially changed their name. Here, you can experience some of the most breathtaking views, atmosphere, and serenity in all of New Mexico. Certainly, relax as if you were getting a deep spa treatment in French Polynesia. Peacefully surrounded by the Turtleback Mountains, the hot springs are certainly a can’t-miss stop on your itinerary.

Ready To Experience New Mexico?

Ready to experience the best New Mexico offers? Take the time and overspend out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg bring you up to speed with the information.

Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer an up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on the breathtaking and iconic sights of Albuquerque, Taos, Los Alamos and the terrific surrounding towns. Grasshopper Greg even offers full coverage of the best Santa Fe tours and museums for your New Mexico vacation.

They’ll introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots and tours that few tourists are aware of.
Grasshopper Greg’s Value Travel Guide to New Mexico is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit there and to its surroundings. Complete with detailed maps and concise descriptions, the Value Travel Guide to New Mexico will help you plan your trip with ease.

So whether you’re going to see the world-class art exhibits, museums and hot-air balloon experiences in Albuquerque, heading to the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico, deciding whether to eat red or green chile, taking the amazing turquoise trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, enjoying unmissable experiences in Santa Fe, Taos or Los Alamos, visiting tribal communities or celebrating over 30 incredible festivals with them that locals participate in, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of New Mexico you’ll find.

Value Travel Guide to New Mexico

The Best Santa Fe NM Museums And Tours To Add To Your Visitor’s Guide

The first day in Santa Fe it is good to get an orientation to the city using Loretto Line Tours. You get all the highlights over 1 hour and 15 minutes and you will see 10 miles of the city. It is open air and shows you many historical spots, Canyon Road and the art galleries, the historic Santa Fe Plaza, the Museum Hill area and the Palace of the Governors. New Mexico is an excellent tourist city for slow travel vacations. This will give you a good idea on where you want to go back to during your stay in the city.

The tram can pick you up at two different locations in downtown Santa Fe: La Fonda Hotel and the Loretto Chapel. There are three tours daily and no reservations required.

$20 for adults.
www.toursofsantafe.com

Sante Fe Museums

There are many great Santa Fe museums and galleries to choose from that one visit won’t be enough. Just choose a couple so you can also enjoy being outdoors in New Mexico. This is a great city to walk. If you begin at the Plaza and just wander you will discover the city.

One of the must-see’s is spending some time at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. She is well known for her New Mexico landscapes. One of the most significant artists of the 20th century, Georgia O’Keeffe (1887-1986) focused her work on the colors of architectural and landscape of northern New Mexico.

The Museum shows 140 O’Keeffe oil paintings, 700 drawings, and other works from 1901 to 1984. The Museum highlights her entire career, which went for 60 years. They feature portraits she made in her youth all the way to her final watercolor paintings in her 80’s.
Admission is $13, free for under age 18. Try to download the museum app prior to arrival to use the free self-guided tour.

217 Johnson St
www.okeeffemuseum.org

Additional Sante Fe Museums & Galleries

The oldest public building in the US holds the Governors and New Mexico History Museum. This museum covers the history of Santa Fe as well as New Mexico, and is a great place to start for people interested in the history on what you are seeing on your trip. Prepare to spend a half day there. The museum is an excellent stop for couples, friends, or even family vacations.  Call in advance to check on docent-led tours at 505-476-5100.

This also may be a good spot to pick up some authentic souvenirs as well. Native American artists and craftspeople offer Indian jewelry and crafts under the portal facing the downtown Plaza. Some of the artisans travel long distances to sell there. There are only 76 spaces to sell there and it is done by lottery. Tribes from all over the state are represented there. You will find the prices are more favorable than in the galleries and stores. Another plus is that you may meet the artist directly and can ask questions about their works. This is not a place to bargain because you may be insulting them. Many of these items have been done by hand and they feel they price items fairly. If you feel something is too expensive, move on.

There are also $ 10 downtown walking tours that meet at the Blue Gate on Lincoln Ave.

Mon-Sat, 10:15am-noon
April through October
www.palaceofthegovernors.org

The New Mexico Museum of Art is another popular, cultural attraction in Santa Fe. At the New Mexico Museum of Art, you will see the works by regional artists. Check the website on what is being exhibited about New Mexico’s multi-cultural history. The museum is always adding more collections relating to the heritage of New Mexico.

107 West Palace

www.nmhistorymuseum.org

Want to see some Folk Art? The Museum of International Folk Art has the world’s largest collection. Take the guided tour and no reservations are required. They have three tours starting at 10:30 daily. To confirm the time of the tours for your day, call 505-476-1204.

www.internationalfolkart.org

A great museum to dive deeper into the Native American history is The Museum of Indian Arts and Culture. It specifically focuses on the history of the Pueblo, Navajo and Apache populations.

www.indianartsandculture.org

If you are looking for a tour, Stefanie Beninato is one of the tour guides in Santa Fe. She provides entertaining, informative and historically accurate tours. There are many different tours to choose from. Tours start at $ 25.

She even offers a downloadable 87 minute walking tour of Santa Fe for $ 17.50. It is an introduction to New Mexico’s history, culture and architecture.

www.swguides.com

You can also visit the Spanish Colonial Arts Society. Located at 750 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505, you can access a variety of activities and public spaces. They have a museum campus that provides an exhibition display of galleries and offices for executive staff. Of course, the campus is decorated in Santa Fe Style with highlighted architectural features and furnishings. More so, there is a permanent collections center that holds about 4,000 devotional, utilitarian and decorative units. Certainly visit the Spanish Colonial Arts Society for a taste of the Santa Fe and Spanish culture.

https://www.spanishcolonial.org

More Historical Sites Of Santa Fe New Mexico

Even with an abundance of amazing museums and galleries to see, there are still dozens of additional must-see stops on your New Mexico travel itinerary. First, make sure to visit El Rancho de las Golondrinas. El Rancho de las Golondrinas is a historic rancho, now serving as a history museum. The museum is located on what used to be the Camino Real, which was a Royal Road extending all the way to Mexico City. At the same time, you need to visit Pecos National Historical Park on your visit to Santa Fe. The Pecos National Historical Park explores the cultural exchange, geographic features, and historic Indian pueblos that define the rich history of Pecos Valley.

Annual Historical Santa Fe Traditions

Visiting historical attractions in Santa Fe New Mexico, there are several traditional celebrations to take part in. Be sure to plan your trip accordingly so that you can partake in all Santa Fe’s yearly festivities. One of the most famous yearly events is the Burining of Zozobra. Every year, Santa Fe residents gather to watch a massive marionette be destroyed by a ritual burning. It is said that setting this massive marionette aflame rids Santa Fe of gloom, doom, and bad luck for another years to come. Dating back to 1924, the firey tradition is an amazing historical celebration still taking place every year in Santa Fe. If you are looking for more to experience in New Mexico, make the trip for the Albuquerque hot air ballooning festival.

Visit Santa Fe Historic Chapels

As you plan your vacation to Santa Fe New Mexico, you need to set time aside to visit some historic chapels. These amazing chapels provide incredible history, stories, and must-see scenic viewpoints. Santa Fe is home to some of the oldest religious institutions in the entire United States. Originally built in 1636, the San Miguel Mission Chapel is an original Adobe structured with a number of authentic statues and high alters. At the same time, be sure to visit Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi. This structure is located only a block from the world famous Santa Fe Plaza. Presenting a beautiful Romanesque, breathtaking architecture, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi is a must see when visiting Santa Fe.

Soak Up Some Living History

Of course, you should soak up some living history whenever possible on your visit to Santa Fe New Mexico. Take a New Mexico road trip and view history in real life. Living history provides you a live demonstration of everyday life. In Santa Fe, the best place to experience this is at El Rancho de Las Golondrinas. Located at a former Spanish ranch from the 1700’s, the living history museum features a variety of homes, barns, chicken coops, a schoolhouse, and a general store. Here, you can learn about everything from spinning, cooking, weaving, farming, and blacksmithing.

Ready To Experience New Mexico?

Ready to experience the best New Mexico offers? Take the time and overspending out of vacation planning. Sit back, relax, and let Grasshopper Greg bring you up to speed with the information. Grasshopper Greg’s team’s advice is savvy, dependable, and thorough. They offer an up-to-date, detail- and tip-rich commentary on the breathtaking and iconic sights of Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Taos, Los Alamos and the terrific surrounding towns.

They’ll introduce you to restaurants, off-the-beaten-path attractions, nature spots and tours that few tourists are aware of.
Grasshopper Greg’s Value Travel Guide to New Mexico is the perfect guidebook for those looking for insider tips to make the most out of their visit there and to its surroundings. Complete with detailed maps and concise descriptions, Value Travel Guide to New Mexico will help you plan your trip with ease.

So whether your on a solo travel destination or with a group going to see the world-class art exhibits, museums and hot-air balloon experiences in Albuquerque, heading to the 19 Pueblos in New Mexico, deciding whether to eat red or green chile, taking the amazing turquoise trail from Albuquerque to Santa Fe, enjoying unmissable experiences in Santa Fe, Taos or Los Alamos, visiting tribal communities or celebrating over 30 incredible festivals with them that locals participate in, this is the book for you. This is the most “to-the-point” but also, comprehensive guide to many parts of New Mexico you’ll find.

Value Travel Guide to New Mexico

A Skaneateles Travel Guide With Top Finger Lakes Attractions And Activities

Skaneateles Lake is a good place to start in the Finger lakes region. On the northern edge is the village of Skaneateles. The lake offers dozens of scenic viewpoints and amazing activities to enjoy.

Skaneateles is 16 miles long and 1-2 miles narrow which makes it a “long lake”. A trip to Syracuse is only 18 miles away from its northern end.

Visiting Downtown Skaneateles

Downtown you will find plenty to keep you busy including boutiques, galleries and café’s. There are three parks along the lake- Clift, Thayer, and Shotwell . Clift Park is a good place to catch a cruise from Mid-Lakes Navigation.

They offer a 50 min daytime cruise and an occasional moonlight 50 min cruise as well. Each one is $18/adult. There is also a three hour mail delivery cruise that runs $30 and you can bring your own lunch. 11 West Genesee St.

www.midlakesnav.com

Clift Park also offers swimming to non-residents for $5 starting in mid-June for the summer.

Skaneateles Art Galleries

A nice art gallery stop in town is the Barrow Gallery. John Barrow (1824-1906) is an artist who is well known for both portraits and landscapes. Barrow moved to Skaneateles when he was 15. The majority of his paintings are of people and places located in or near this area. 400 of barrow’s works are on display in the gallery.

Barrow is best known for sketching Abraham Lincoln when he spoke at Cooper Union in 1860. It is currently owned and displayed by the Chicago Historical Society. Barrow would be classified as a “second generation” Hudson River School artist.

$2 admission. 49 East Genesee St.
www.barrowgallery.org

If shopping is your thing, try the Skaneateles Artisans Gallery Under the Stone. It is a gallery located in the historic Old Stone Mill in town. Be sure to take your time and browse all of the local gallaries, remember, you are on a slow travel vacation.

They carry high-quality art from more than 100 Finger Lakes and New England artists. When you shop, you will find fiber art, faux-painting, furniture, glass, jewelry, paintings, photography, pottery and sculpture.

You can meet the artists on the first Friday of each month. Check the schedule prior to going there. 3 Fennell St- Lower Level.

www.skaneatelesartisans.com

Dining In Skaneateles Finger Lakes

The Krebs is a fine dining restaurant located in town and dates back to 1899. It sources much of its menu locally, supporting both local farmers and Finger Lakes wineries. We recommend it for brunch since it has a pricey dinner menu. 53 West Genesee St.

Located across from Skaneateles Lake, the Mandana Inn provides casual fine dining. It is open Wed thru Sunday. 1937 West Lake Road.

If you are looking for a good burger you will find an extensive menu at Johnny Angel’s Heavenly Burgers. This restaurant is also kid friendly, making it an excellent choice if you are on a family vacation.

The restaurant at Elderberry farm is overlooking the orchards, vineyards and seasonal vegetable plantings. The menu features fresh produce, pasture raised meats from their farm and other organic or sustainable farms. On the farm there they produce a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, herbs and cut flowers on 36 acres.They also grow over 100 varieties of apples including some specifically for baking and others for sweet and hard cider production.

Open Wed through Sun (Mid Mar – Dec). They have a main dining room that seats approximately 40, and a sunroom that seats 20. Good choice for lunch since pricey for dinner. 3728 Center Street Rd, Auburn

www.elderberrypond.com

The story of Anyela’s Vineyards began in Eastern Europe and continues today on the hillside high above the lake. They combine experience with the cooler climate patterns and soil to grow their select grapes.

Tastings are first come first served since they do not take reservations. You can also stroll through the vineyards and enjoy the view. They offer two types of tastings. $ 5 feature five wines they choose. $10 to choose five wines from their offering. 2433 West Lake Rd,

www.anyelasvineyards.com

Additional Skaneateles Finger Lakes Outdoor Activities

When visiting the Skaneateles Finger Lakes, there are several additional outdoor activities to partake in.  If you are a fan of hiking, be sure to check out Charlie Major Nature Trail and other pet-friendly travel destinations. At the same time, be sure to check out the Baltimore Woods Nature Center for excellent hiking, art, and additional outdoor recreation. This can be a great place for solo travel experiences. Be sure to additionally check out Sycamore Hill Gardens for breathtaking sculptures, gardens, and scenery.

Visit Skaneateles Lake

Of course, you should spend some time checking out Skaneateles Lake during your trip. This is one of New York’s biggest finger lakes, spanning 16 miles. In fact, “Skaneateles” translates to “long lake” in Native American languages. If you’re into bicking, hiking or boating, make this one of your must-do activities during your getaway. Take in the waters, fresh air and greenery that NY has to offer!

Admire The Lavender Farms

Lavender Farms are one of the premier attractions when traveling to Skaneateles Finger Lakes. As you plan your visit, one of the most popular destinations is the Lockwood Lavender Farm. The farm features over one-hundred acres of lavender that create spectacular views surrounding the Skaneateles Lake. Every year in mid-July, the Lockwood Farm hosts the Finger Lakes Lavender Festival. As you plan your visit to Skaneateles Lake, be sure to plan activities at the famous New York Lavender farms. Of course, come prepared with environmentally friendly travel accessories to leave the farm as it was when you came.

Indoor Skaneateles Activities For Rainy Days

On the unfortunate event that it rains during your Skaneateles Finger Lakes vacation, there are several indoor activities to make the most of rainy days. With an abundance of indoor and outdoor activities, you never have to stress about travel plans when visiting the Finger Lakes. For food and drink, be sure to check out Angela’s Vineyard or the Last Shot Distillery. At the same time, you should check out the John D Barrow Art Gallery for an exciting activity for the entire family. For something simpler, you can look to indoor mini golf, laser maze challenges, cinemas, or family fun centers in the nearby area. As you plan your visit to Skaneateles Finger Lakes, be sure to plan some outdoor activities in the event of rainy days.

During The Winter Seasons

Unfortunately, not every month brings warm weather and sunshine for enjoying the Finger Lakes water. Fortunately, there are dozens of fun travel activities to do during the winter season. Generally speaking, the winter season runs from December through March. During this time, travelers can experience some of the best cross-country and downhill skiing or snowboarding in the country. In fact, it is a great vacation idea for families with teenagers. Of course, there are dozens of places to additionally experience snowshoeing and tubing. For winter accommodations, most vacationers choose to stay at the two largest year-round resorts: Greek Peak and Bristol Mountain. Here, you can experiences all the activities mentioned above and many other exciting outdoor adventures you need to try.