It’s almost that time of year again. The time when we want to forget the problems of everyday life and go on vacation. Whether it’s a drop-everything-and-go, or meticulous planning for your next destination, this year, it’s time to venture out into uncharted territory and visit some of these awesome Mid-United States destinations:

Tucson, Arizona 

This is the perfect holiday for the whole family, with all their varying interests. Tucson has a plethora of both indoor and outdoor activities, ranging from hiking trails to a variety of indoor museums and arts. Resting in the Sonoran Desert, the town is surrounded by five mountain ranges, resulting in a wide range of climates. During the winter months, Mt. Lemmon is the site of the Southern most ski hill in America. In the valley, however, locals enjoy year round sunshine. Cycling, hiking and equestrian trails circumnavigate the hillsides, providing expansive views of the Saguaro Forests, and some of the world's best sunsets. 

The art scene is rich and diverse in Tucson, which has it's own ballet, theater, symphony and opera companies. Art galleries and museums are scattered throughout the city. The Arizona-Senora Desert Museum encompasses a zoo, botanical garden and natural history museum. Dining in this historical town is exciting, because the local culture is prominently Native-American and Mexican. El Charro Café is the oldest family-owned Mexican restaurant in the country, with a great product to back that claim. With three locations in Tucson, there's no excuse not to indulge. With so many ranches and farms surrounding town, fresh, local ingredients are readily available. Visit the Rillito Park Food Pavilion on Sundays for the best new farmer's market selection, as well as a collection of local food trucks, live music and sometimes chef demonstrations. Southern Arizona is internationally acclaimed for their wine making, and gorgeous vineyards dominate the surrounding hills. Callaghan Vineyards has a long standing reputation of excellence, with a particular focus on Mediterranean Classics like Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. 

Provo, Utah

Nestled between the Wasatch Front Mountains and Utah Lake, Provo is widely considered one of the happiest places to live. A land of lush hills, and roaring waterfalls simply waiting to be explored. With so much nature on it's doorstep, the best activities include hiking, rafting, fishing and camping. The two local universities have helped to establish a thriving art and culture. On the Brigham Young University campus, the Museum of Peoples and Culture inspires it's visitors to appreciate humans around the world.

If it’s a romantic getaway you’re craving, spend a weekend at the Hines Mansion bed and breakfast. This B and B was designed with elegant Victorian class that is sure to ignite the passion. A luxury breakfast and snacks for your late night cravings are both provided by the friendly staff throughout your stay. Explore the Provo Canyon area, with it's scenic mountains and breath-taking views of the Provo River and the Deer Creek Reservoir. At the south end of the valley, a 600-foot waterfall tumbles down the rock-face. Bridal Veil Falls is best viewed from the State park of the same name, which is an excellent spot for an afternoon picnic. When it comes to outdoor adventures, the Midway Adventure Company has you covered, offering rafting, off-roading and equestrian tours. 

Breckenridge, Colorado

Start planning the perfect get away with a sweetheart, or your best buddies to this incredible spot, located at the Southern end of the Rocky Mountain's ten mile range. Breckenridge is a true ski town, originally settled during the 1859 Gold Rush, it still retains much of it's old-fashioned charm. During the summer months, the hillside is awash with green pines, and pristine trails facilitate amazing adventures. Float high in the clouds during a hot air balloon ride, overlooking the South Park Valley, or navigate the McCullough Gulch on foot. Either way, you are sure to see some excellent examples of Colorado's wilderness.

When the snow falls, that is when Breckenridge truly comes to life. Breckenridge Ski Resort has some of the highest quality skiing in North-America, with four peaks, two half-pipes and multiple terrain parks. In the evenings enjoy a warming soak in the hot tub (which is a standard for most all hotels), before hitting the town for a bit of nightlife. For the most exquisite artisan beers, visit the Broken Compass Brewery and Taphouse, a favorite among the locals. Try the Coconut Porter for a rich dark brew with just a hint of toasted coconuts. To really experience the old western heritage in Breckenridge, wander down Main Street. The old buildings have been restored, and lovingly maintained by the numerous store and eatery owners. This old town in Colorado is a must-visit destination, weather you are a skier, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply an enthusiastic socialite with a passion for travel.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

The capital of New Mexico is an artistic and cultural hub, set in the beautiful foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. At the heart of town, the Plaza reflects Santa Fe's Colonial Spanish history, while creating a communal space and center of activities. Great food, a diversity of historical and cultural sites, besides the unbeatable opportunities for outdoor adventure, all contribute to the joys of a visit. Popular hikes include the Aspen Vista, and trails through the Santa Fe National Forest. Hikers will enjoy jaw-dropping views of the mountains and valley, crystalline streams and, in the Spring time, meadows awash with wildflowers. During early Fall, through to late Spring, the powder snow can get up to 300 inches deep, facilitating some epic skiing and snowboarding. 

Made of the old-style adobe bricks (clay), the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum is the home of an impressive, rotating collection of paintings. Wander through the twisting streets of the historical district to see the Palace of the Governors, the oldest public building in the country and the original home to Spanish governors. The entrance to the palace is located in the New Mexico History Museum, which tells the stories of Santa Fe through art, artifacts and media. For even more incredible art, wander down Canyon Road, packed with a range of galleries. One of the most unique experiences can be found at the House of Eternal Return by Meow Wolf. The myriad of secret passages, in this interactive exhibit will lead you to uncover clues surrounding the disappearance of a Californian family. Meanwhile, in the Santa Fe flea market, local peddlers sell everything from the iconic turquoise jewelry, to the best cowboy boots in town.

St. Louis, Missouri

For you animal enthusiasts out there, a perfect trip this year is the "Critter Crawl", in St. Louis, where you will tour all of the animal specific locations in the city and surrounding area. This gorgeous city, resting on the banks of the Mississippi River, is a bustling metropolis with a commitment to preserving the natural landscape. The expansive Forest Park, holds some excellent attractions, such as the Muny Opera House (the largest open-air opera house in North-America), and the world-renowned St Louis Art Museum. The zoo, also inside the park, is conservation focused.

St Louis has often been referred to as the "City of Blues" for it's numerous local musicians and performances of that genre. The Grand Center Arts District is always lively and offers a diverse art scene, from street preforming musicians to Broadway-level theatrical performances. This part of town is a great place to appreciate creativity, dine and explore. For a more intimate experience, visit the oldest neighborhood in town, Soulard. Here you will find historical churches, adjacent to live music clubs and some of the best food in all of St Louis. Soulard, a traditionally French district, hosts a brilliant Mardi Gras and Oktoberfest, so visit during the festivals for a greater myriad of sights and experiences. For a coffee, and a mouth-watering snack, go to J's Pitaria for a fresh donair. 

No matter where you decide to go this year, traveling in the United States exposes you to so many new opportunities and diverse culutures. Although we are all America, each destination has a completely unique atmosphere, with a myriad of possibilities for adventure. The Fine Magazine team wishes you Bon Voyage!

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