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ASSOCIATED PRESS
Robert Scott of Chicago watches as diver Libby Vincent feeds fish in the shark exhibit at the Downtown Aquarium in Denver.
Make sure you’ve got a plan in place when spring fever hits. It’s time to plan your getaway. Here are five ideas to consider:
1. Denver
If you are seeking sun, count on Denver to deliver. With more than 300 days of sunshine, a vibrant food and cultural scene and abundant outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in your gang. Explore the city’s historic districts and emerging neighborhoods via the free bike-sharing system, visit the legendary Tattered Cover bookstore and enjoy a casual snack while people watching in the revitalized Union Station. Take in a free festival, a sporting event or a music happening. At the Downtown Aquarium, kids can feed stingrays, swim with the sharks, see a mermaid show, become a marine biologist for a day or even spend the night amid the marine life. Stay at the centrally located Kimpton Hotel Born, next to Union Station, for easy access to the airport and the vibrant LoDo district.
Contact: VisitDenver.org; ihg.com/kimptonhotels
2. Scottsdale, Ariz.
Plan a spring trip to this sunny Southwestern city and your biggest challenge will be finding time for all the activities you’ll find appealing. Expect hiking and biking trails, jeep rides and horseback outings in the Sonoran desert. Relax by a pool or enjoy a lazy river float. You’ll want to stop by the Butterfly Wonderland and the new aquarium as well as the Contemporary Art museum and the Museum of the West. And if you visit during March, you’ll feel the heat generated by baseball fever as fans gather to watch their favorite teams warm up for the regular season.
Contact: ExperienceScottsdale.com; CactusLeague.com
3. Keystone, Colo.
Spend your spring getaway on the slopes of this Rocky Mountain resort, offering 3,000 acres of easy-to-expert terrain on three impressive peaks. From the friendly Reception Center to the hundreds of red wagons spread throughout the property to ease the transport of little ones plus gear, Keystone is committed to making mountain time memorable. The Kidtopia program offers activities for children including giant snow forts, ice skating and scavenger hunts, as well as culinary events. Stay two nights in resort lodging and kids 12 and under ski and ride free. Ask about private ski and boarding lessons.
Contact: KeystoneResort.com
4. Carlsbad, Calif.
Visit this seaside town where beach time pairs perfectly with outings to theme parks, the zoo and shopping. Go SoCal and take SUP or surf lessons or check out the local skate park. Be sure to make time for a trip to Legoland, where the family will be entertained by more than 60 rides, shows and attractions including the popular Lego Star Wars Miniland model display. You’ll also want to check out the Sea Life Aquarium, home to more than 5,000 living creatures. Kids can learn about ocean life through play zones and quiz trails.
Contact: VisitCarlsbad.com
5. New York City
Make your break all about the big city vibe during a trip to the Big Apple. Take in a Broadway play, choose from a long list of top-notch museums and sample cuisine in Little Italy and Chinatown. Head to Central Park for a tour in an iconic carriage, rent bikes or boats, or roller blade along the paved pathways. Visit the carousel, the botanical garden and the zoo. You’ll want to spend time in the High Line, a beautiful, car-free respite from the busy street scene below. It’s a family-friendly, linear park with views of the city, music and performances underway. Consider a visit to the Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum where an interactive exhibit provides firsthand stories from people who came through Ellis Island.
Contact: 808ne.ws/2EWTmHx
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