One morning I was in the Valley of the Sun where residents were getting ready for another 111 degree day. So by hopping a flight to Denver and taking a couple-hour drive through beautiful mountain passes, I reduced the temperature by over 40 degrees! I found myself in cool, green, rustic Grand Lake, Colorado. This is the place where most of the visitors spend the afternoon munching on ice cream cones down by the boardwalk enjoying the mountain and lake views.

I had the pleasure of staying in a rustic yet charming cabin with full kitchen right in the middle of town (it's a small town). There is so much to do in the area, I can understand why many choose to vacation here during the summer.

More to do in Colorado:

• Things to Do and See in Denver
• Visiting Rocky Mountain National Park

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose

A 1,500-acre wildfire is still burning in a heavily wooded part of Rocky Mountain National Park. It doesn't appear to be spreading so officials have announced that the park will remain open. It is believed that the fire is a result of lightening strikes.
More on Rocky Mountain National Park.

You can now access Sunset Crater and drive to Wapatki Pueblo once again. All three visitors centers are open. You cannot camp there, however.  Nearby Walnut Canyon did not need to be closed.

I enjoyed touring all three areas just a few weeks before the fire and have been watching intently as reports of damage and evacuations spread through the news. These are beautiful natural and historic places and I am relieved to see that they are intact and open to visitors.

Photo Credit: Elizabeth R. Rose

Dallas, Texas is a big city to tackle when you don't know where to go and what to see. But within Dallas are some marvelous parks, great shopping opportunities and places that bring history alive. Right now the Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Water Park in Arlington sounds pretty good. It's immense! Have a great time in Dallas, the "Big D."

Full Article: Top Things to See and Do in Dallas, Texas.

Photo Credit: Dallas CVB