The number of daily air passengers in the U.S. has been increasing daily and airports and resorts have announced new cleaning & sanitization procedures to reduce risks and reinforce traveler confidence. Although travel may feel different this summer, trip goers are hitting the road locally and catching bucket-list-worthy views! With the holiday weekend just around the corner, many travelers are looking to stay safe while going outdoors and responsibly discovering new destinations right in their own backyard — and for this, national parks top the list. With many people following health guidance on social distancing practices, the outdoors is a popular option. Pack your bags, call your travel advisor and get ready for some great astrophotography!
Check out the list we compiled for getaway inspiration.
National Parks Where You Can See the Milky Way
Yellowstone National Park is one of the best places to see the galaxy! From July 25 through August 3 there’s no significant moonlight in the sky. That’s critical — you won’t see much of the Milky Way if there is strong moonlight. Also, in summer nights the Earth is tilted towards the Milky Way’s bright core. Yellowstone by day offers the Old Faithful geyser field and the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring but by night in the summer she reveals sparkling views of the Milky Way. Another moonless window when the milky way is visible is August 23 - September 2 and again September 21 - October 1. If you live on the west coast of the United States another iconic place to see the Milky Way is Joshua Tree National Park, California.
Canyon Adventures
Hiking in canyons is a once in a lifetime experience! From day hikes to multi-night excursions, travelers are getting out to experience timeless natural beauty. Working with a Cruise Planners travel advisor offers a variety of tours that can remove the hassle of logistical planning, while adding an extra layer of knowledge and safety. When you’re planning to enjoy an experience in unfamiliar territory, its best to contact an advisor who has experience with the destination and will know which tour companies will provide a safe and memorable trip.
The canyon is a vast, desert landscape, full of cliffs, rocky terrain and breathtaking views. If you’re not an experienced hiker, that’s ok! There are plenty of guided tours with experienced professionals ready to lead the way and guide you to the perfect picturesque location. While you can get hiking permits via a lottery system up to one year in advance for some canyon trails, its best to work with a travel advisor.
The Mighty Mississippi
Travelers are taking a time hop back to an era when steamboats dominated the United States’ grand rivers on the Mississippi River. The 2,320-mile river has been an important part of American history, including early 16th-century exploration, transportation during the civil war and a massive boom to power throughout the 20th century. The river’s sense of adventure even inspired famous writer Mark Twain, transforming into an iconic piece of American literature “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.” Today, the river attracts a modern set of luxury travelers ready to experience the river — albeit just a little more lavishly than Huck Finn and Jim.
Are you ready to enjoy the vast beauty Mississippi has to offer? Travelers who want to see the Mississippi on a paddlewheel or rather prefer a modern-day luxury vessel should contact their Cruise Planners travel advisor. 2020 river cruise deals are available now as well as newly announced 2021 itineraries.
California Dreamin’
Travel to California and walk its towering redwood forests, visit its unmistakable mountains, and sample its award-winning wines. Visit the city of angels and take in the breathtaking views, experiences and culinary delights the western state has to offer. For recommendations on dreamy itineraries, contact an expert Cruise Planners travel advisor to get the best value out of your travel investment. California truly offers something for every traveler. Most of the golden state enjoys mild temperatures year-round, so visit California at your leisure during the summer season, just bring a hat and keep hydrated.
Island Vibes Forever
Hawaii—the place where mai tais are served in a salty seaside shack to the tune of hapa haole (Hawaiian music with English lyrics), is ramping up their reopening. Starting August 1, visitors will be allowed to visit and avoid quarantine if they present a negative COVID-19 result upon arriving. Snowcapped volcanoes to rainforests to vast lava-rock deserts, the exotic natural paradise is much more than the procession of high-rise hotels that hug glorious Waikiki Beach.
Popular Hawaii Resorts to Add to Your Travel List:
• Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa
• Kauai Shores
• Aston Islander on the Beach
• Sheraton Kauai Resort
• Koloa Landing Resort
Get ready to experience Hawaii like never before. Get ahead of the rush and book your Hawaii vacation today. Hotels will fill up quickly due to limited capacity requirements protecting guests' safety, save time and call you Cruise Planners travel advisor today.
Don’t have one yet? Connect today and get ready to soak up some summer.