After a long year of distance and isolation, things are slowly getting back to normal. Travel restrictions are being lifted, and more and more of us are looking to get out and explore again. However, in such uncertain times, it’s important to still be cautious. If safety is your top priority, here are some destinations in the US that you should check out.
Denver, Colorado
For a fan of the Great Outdoors, Denver, Colorado is a dream. As travelers continue to navigate safety during this time, proximity to beautiful outdoor spaces is a must. For that, Denver fits the bill: The city is nestled in the mountains and sunny nearly every day (no wonder Coloradans are such avid trekkers!). Newbies be warned: the altitude can really ruin your day if you aren’t careful. Be sure to drink water and rest to ensure you feel good while travelling in the city. Then, after you’ve taken in the fresh air, grab a beer on the patio of some of the best breweries in the country or take the opportunity to get Mile High (legally). With so many local dispensaries to hook you up with CBD and green, you’ll have no problem relaxing on your summer trip.
Outer Banks, North Carolina
Continuing our theme of travel destinations with wide open spaces, Outer Banks, North Carolina is an ideal way to safely enjoy the beach but avoid the crowds. This chain of islands near the North Carolina coast features multiple beaches, making it easy to stay distant from other groups. If trekking is on your agenda, explore the area via one of the nearby nature trails. If you’d rather take your holiday onto the water, you can do so by renting a jetski or a pontoon boat. If you’re lucky, you could see wild horses running along the beach, or even better, you might catch a glimpse of a majestic Sea Turtle!
Grand Canyon, Arizona
As the name might suggest, The Grand Canyon is one of the most beautiful outdoor spaces in the US. As a national park with hundreds of miles of trails, there is plenty of space to hike without running into other groups of tourists. Fair warning, trekking at the Grand Canyon is not for amateurs. Make sure you have the correct outdoor bag and supplies for your trip. You may also need to rent a car as the closest airport (Flagstaff) is about a 90 minute drive outside the park. It’s a small airport, but generally it’s pretty easy to find flights from Chicago, LA, and other major cities in the US. No matter how you get there, the view is definitely worth the trip.
Portland, Maine
With surprisingly low rates of COVID infection and stunning coastal views, it’s no surprise that Portland makes the list of safest spots to travel to. Where else can you grab a takeaway lobster roll and then take a sunset lighthouse cruise? Take in the best view of the city by checking out the Portland Observatory. Or, if you feel like getting even farther off the beaten path, take your travel bubble on a day trip to some of the nearby islands, such as the Casco Bay Islands, where you can catch a glimpse of some of the Maine wildlife without the hassle of other tourists.
While travel within the US is still not entirely safe, there are ways to venture out while keeping yourself and your loved ones as risk-free as possible. By focusing your travels on spots with lots of natural beauty and outdoor space, you can make the best of your holiday this summer.
