4 minute read
West
Photo courtesy of Huntington Library
Unmatched natural beauty awaits groups wise enough to venture to the Western region of the country. With a multitude of national parks and a variety of natural wonders, the West is one of the most scenic regions on earth. California alone is home to nine of the country’s 62 national parks, including rugged Joshua Tree (populated by vast stands of Joshua trees); majestic Sequoia (which boasts some of the world’s tallest trees); and the granddaddy of them all: Yosemite, internationally renowned for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, glaciers and incredible sightlines. Not to be outdone, Alaska boasts eight national parks that accompany its wide array of spectacular natural wonders that include snow-capped glaciers, crystal blue waters, exotic wildlife and even volatile volcanoes.
The West is also renowned for its noteworthy cities including Seattle and Portland, two cultural metropolises that combine bustling metro areas with celebrated outdoor scenes. Lest we not forget Nevada, which sports eye-catching outdoor destinations like Red Rock Canyon and the Ruby Mountains. Nevada, as you probably know, is also home to one of the world’s most popular destinations: Las Vegas, the city that never sleeps, rarely rests and always delivers a memorable outing.
The Huntington Library in San Marino, California recently underwent a huge expansion of its Chinese Garden, Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance. This is one of the finest classical-style Chinese gardens outside of China.
CALIFORNIA
The Huntington Library, Art Collection and Botanical Gardens in San Marino is one of the largest and most complete research libraries in the nation. The library features a collection of rare books, manuscripts, prints, photographs, maps and other materials in the fields of British and American history and literature. It recently underwent a huge expansion of its Chinese Garden, Liu Fang Yuan, the Garden of Flowing Fragrance. This is one of the finest classical-style Chinese gardens outside of China. Filled with Chinese plants and framed by exquisite architecture, the landscape is enriched with references to literature and art. Visitors will now be treated to an additional 11.5 acres of landscape in the garden, including new pavilions and a penjing court. With the final phases of construction now complete, the garden has expanded from its initial 3.5 acres to 15 acres. >> huntington.org
A legendary 57-acre theme park in Buena Park, California, Knott’s Berry Farm is home to dozens of rides, roller coasters and attractions. What once started as a small berry farm now bursts with attractions and entertainment for all ages, including stage shows, interactive experiences, delicious food creations and family-friendly fun featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang. Just across the way from Knott’s Berry Farm, you’ll find a virtual tidal wave of fun at Knott’s Soak City, a waterpark with everything from soaring slides to a meandering float on a lazy river. >> knotts.com
Your “Must Shop Stop” in Southern California, the Outlets at Tejon is ready to welcome you with your favorite name brands with savings up to 65% at more than 60 upscale fashion, home goods and accessories stores. Conveniently located approximately an hour north of Los Angeles on I-5, you can shop brands like Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Coach, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike and American Eagle Outfitters. Other stores at the outlet include Adidas, Banana Republic, Express, Guess, H&M, Hot Topic, Levis and Lids. >> tejonoutlets.com
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library is a must-visit attraction in Southern California. Featuring hundreds of artifacts and dozens of interactive displays for visitors of all ages to explore, the library also offers groups the chance to step aboard the same Air Force One that flew President Reagan. Eighteen galleries pay tribute to America’s 40th president and his many accomplishments. In February of 2021, it is offering a new exhibit called FBI – From Al Capone to Al-Qaeda, a new 11,000-square-foot exhibition which covers the history of the storied agency from inception to its modernday efforts to fight domestic terrorism in the United States. >> reaganfoundation.org NEVADA
In downtown Las Vegas, explore the real stories and actual events of organized crime history through interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind Mob and law enforcement artifacts. The Mob Museum o ers guided tours for guests who want a narrated, interactive history of the exhibits. The tours are available as individualized and custom add-on. Every tour will be unique as each guide brings his or her own personal interpretation and storytelling to the experience. In 2018, the museum transformed the basement into a speakeasy and distillery exhibition. Prohibition-era artifacts and photos are displayed throughout the Speakeasy, which is built around a well-stocked bar serving Prohibition-inspired cocktails. >> themobmuseum.org
PR RESIDE ENTIA AL LIBRARY & MUSEUM
One of California’s most beautiful and unique destinations!
• Docent-led group tours • Two restaurants with tour group options •For information on FBI: From Al Capone to Al Qaeda and our other great special exhibits visit ReaganLibrary.com
Tour Through Air Force One 27000 View a Full Scale Replica of the Oval Office Touch an Authentic Piece of the Berlin Wall
Once reopened, the Reagan Library will follow all CDC COVID health guidelines and cleaning procedures.
40 Presidential Drive • Simi Valley, CA 93065 • 805.577.2704 • ReaganLibrary.com