Debbie McGinn, Author at Desert Hot Springs Travel

What To Do In Santa Monica California

Posted on February 18, 2023 by Debbie McGinn

What To Do In Santa Monica California

Santa Monica, California is a beautiful coastal city in Los Angeles County. Here are some of the top things to do in Santa Monica:

Santa Monica Pier: The iconic Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit attraction, offering an amusement park, restaurants, shops, and beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
Santa Monica Beach: With its wide expanse of sand, the Santa Monica Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and beach volleyball.
Third Street Promenade: This pedestrian-only shopping area features a variety of stores, restaurants, street performers, and a movie theater.
Santa Monica Place: This luxury shopping center features high-end stores, restaurants, and a rooftop dining deck with stunning ocean views.
Palisades Park: Located along the bluffs overlooking the ocean, Palisades Park offers a peaceful setting for a walk, bike ride, or picnic.
Bergamot Station: This former trolley station now houses a collection of art galleries and museums, making it a hub for contemporary art in Los Angeles.
Annenberg Community Beach House: This historic beach house features a pool, splash pad, and beach access for visitors to enjoy.
The Getty Villa: This stunning museum and cultural center features ancient Greek and Roman art and architecture, as well as beautiful gardens and ocean views.
Bike Rental: Rent a bike and cruise along the beach path to Venice Beach, Muscle Beach, and beyond.
Santa Monica Farmers Market: Held every Wednesday and Saturday, this farmers market features local produce, artisanal goods, and prepared foods.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, shopping, or cultural experiences, Santa Monica has something for everyone.

Places To Visit On Route 66

Posted on February 18, 2023 by Debbie McGinn

Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America,” is a historic road that spans from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, covering a distance of over 2,400 miles. Here are some of the must-see places to visit on Route 66:

Chicago: The starting point of Route 66 is the Windy City of Chicago, which is known for its architecture, museums, and sports teams.
St. Louis: This Missouri city is famous for the Gateway Arch, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding area. Other attractions in St. Louis include the Missouri Botanical Garden and the City Museum.
Oklahoma City: The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, which commemorates the victims of the 1995 bombing, is a must-see attraction. Other attractions in the city include the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and the Bricktown Entertainment District.
Santa Fe: This historic city in New Mexico is known for its art galleries, museums, and adobe-style architecture. The Palace of the Governors and the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum are popular attractions.
Grand Canyon: The Grand Canyon in Arizona is one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Visitors can hike, bike, or take a helicopter tour of the canyon.
Las Vegas: Known as the Entertainment Capital of the World, Las Vegas is famous for its casinos, hotels, and nightlife.
Los Angeles: The end point of Route 66 is Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, where visitors can enjoy the beach, amusement park, and boardwalk.

These are just a few of the many exciting places to visit on Route 66. There are many other attractions and hidden gems along the way, so take your time and enjoy the journey.

What Are The Best Hiking Trails In Great Basin National Park?

Posted on February 18, 2023 by Debbie McGinn

Great Basin National Park in Nevada offers a wide range of hiking trails with varying difficulty levels and scenic views. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Great Basin National Park:

Wheeler Peak Summit Trail: This is a challenging 8.6-mile roundtrip hike that takes you to the summit of Wheeler Peak, the second-highest peak in Nevada. The trail features alpine forests, subalpine meadows, and stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Bristlecone Trail: This moderate 2.8-mile loop trail takes you through a grove of ancient bristlecone pine trees, some of which are over 3,000 years old. The trail also offers excellent views of Wheeler Peak and the surrounding valleys.
Alpine Lakes Loop Trail: This moderate 2.7-mile loop trail takes you through subalpine meadows and past several picturesque alpine lakes. The trail also offers stunning views of Wheeler Peak and the surrounding mountains.
Lehman Caves Trail: This easy 0.6-mile trail takes you through the underground chambers of Lehman Caves, one of the main attractions of Great Basin National Park. The tour of the caves is led by a park ranger and lasts about an hour.
Baker Lake Trail: This easy 2.7-mile roundtrip trail takes you to Baker Lake, a serene alpine lake surrounded by wildflowers and towering peaks. The trail also offers excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Remember to prepare appropriately for any hiking or outdoor activity, including carrying sufficient water, food, sunscreen, and proper hiking gear. Be sure to also check trail conditions and weather forecasts before embarking on any hike.