Travel out to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Travelers have flocked there for years and celebrated its dry climate, natural hot springs and restorative powers. Take yourself on a walking tour of the city to get a greater feeling of its architecture and local culture. Explore the world renowned Georgia O'Keefe museum or the New Mexico Museum of Art. Santa Fe is a heavenly place for food lovers and has a reputable place on the culinary map. Experiment with red and green chilies served over burritos or enchiladas, or take a cooking class while you are there and take the taste of Santa Fe home with you.
One of the seven wonders of the world has its home in Arizona. The Grand Canyon attracts nearly five million people each year. They drive, hike, bike, raft or ride mules through parts of the expanse of the 1-mile deep canyon. Sleep under the stars in one of two campgrounds available for an unforgettable visit. Plan well ahead and reserve a mule ride around the canyon's South or North Rim.
Consider killing four birds with one stone and take a trip to the Four Corners. The Four Corners is the region in the Southwest where the states of Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona meet. Experience breathtaking canyons, visit national parks and buy works from local artisans. The area offers many points of interest in each state. Drive the Million Dollar Highway in southwest Colorado, or visit Rainbow Bridge National Monument in southeast Utah. Visit Petrified Forest National Park in northern Arizona or the ancient Chaco Canyon in New Mexico. Before you leave, be sure to take a photo at the Four Corners Monument -- the spot where the states intersect.
Get your kicks on a stretch of Route 66. The highway runs from Chicago all the way to Los Angeles -- pick it up in one of the lower southwestern states such as Texas and hit the open road. Cruise through ghost towns like Amarillo and onto New Mexico -- the self-professed Land of Enchantment. Stop at Inscription Rock and marvel at this enormous golden sandstone as you make your way to Arizona. The route itself is a historical and cultural journey, punctuated by ranges of accents, foods, sights and great characters.
