It’s time to plan your spring and summer travel.
Here are some ideas:
Denver
You can’t beat the mile-high city. I like the Warwick Hotel in trendy uptown. It offers free bikes and is just steps away from the bars and restaurants.
Southwest, United, and Frontier airlines all fly from Indy to Denver. Starting April 23, you can hop on the new light-rail line into the city. Until then, you are stuck with the RTD bus ($11, exact change required, no credit cards accepted).
Don’t miss the new Art Museum, the trendy Highlands District (west of downtown), and of course Capitol Hill and the Botanical Gardens. The Mall on 16th Street is a must, as is the newly remodeled Union Station, which features a hotel and trendy new restaurants.
San Francisco
The City by the Bay – winter is a perfect time to visit, as the hills are green and temperatures are in the 60s.
Stay in the Upper Market/Castro at the newly remodeled Becks Motor Lodge. Hike the hills of the city to enjoy the spring wildflowers and emerald green hills. Hike with the San Francisco Hiking Club or meet up with the Frontrunners in Golden Gate Park (Saturdays at 9 a.m. at Stow Lake Boat House). Don’t miss the farmers market at the Ferry Building, which also has a lot of trendy new restaurants and shops.
Chicago
Stay at the Days Inn on Diversey/Clark/Broadway (Diversey station on the Brown Line), which allows a free workout at the Century complex next door. It is a bargain and very handy. Steps from the Halsted attractions. Don’t miss the new Andy Warhol exhibit at the Art Museum.
Washington D.C.
The cherry blossoms started blooming in December, as it was so mild, but there still will be a few to be enjoyed in April. Stay at the Beacon House, Comfort Inn, or Washington Plaza Hotels in Dupont Circle/Thomas Circle area. The Beacon House features free use of the Y across the street. All three are steps from the new trendy 14th Street shops and restaurants.
Bring your bike helmet for the shared bike system. D.C. is always a great place for a long weekend. Winter ends March 1 in D.C., so it’s a great time to consider a trip.
Hop on the Metro to downtown ($2.25 off-peak).
And all the museums are free.
Article republished with permission from The Gay Word.
