Weekend Destinations to Unwind During Winter

Top 6 Places to Visit After Visiting Your Volkswagen Dealer

Finding time to relax can be difficult with a busy schedule, and squeezing in an extra vacation during the holidays is almost impossible. Fortunately, you live in an area that has great winter destinations.

Look at all the ways you can take advantage of these six close getaways to enjoy your weekend to the fullest in your Volkswagen!

Invigorate Your Senses at Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

This fascinating winter destination is less than 150 miles away in Bannock County, Idaho. With a small population of about 400 people, this tiny resort town is the perfect location to unwind. Take a dip in the world famous hot springs, and experience therapeutic waters filled with minerals like bicarbonate, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Even better, these hot springs come without the off-putting smell of sulfur, because the water filters through an ancient volcano before they enter the springs. Many people enjoy a secluded winter wonderland during colder months of the year, as the snow is extra enchanting from the warmth of a hot spring.

You can find five year-round hot springs to soothe your soul, or check out the many health and wellness centers within this small town. Pamper yourself with a massage or other spa services.

Dinosaur Monument, Utah Is a Perfect Place for the Whole Family

Do you have a dino lover in your family? Then you need to take a trip to peek into the Jurassic Period at Dinosaur National Monument, which is conveniently about 150 miles away. This national park spreads across 20,000 acres and is packed with dinosaur fossils, footprints, and prehistoric sites that will surely fascinate every member of your family.

Check out scenes like the Wall of Bones, which houses more than 1,500 fossils embedded in a cliff from millions of years ago. If stargazing is your passion, grab a campsite, a cozy blanket, and your telescope, because Dinosaurs Monument is officially designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association.

Find winter fun by exploring the art of snow shoeing, enjoying some time skiing, or riding a snowmobile for a little extra excitement. Get your winter camping in, too, because Split Mountain Campground is open throughout winter.

Goblin State Valley Park, Utah for an Extraterrestrial Experience

Goblin State Valley is a fun and spooky trip just a few hours away from home, near the town of Hanksville. You can see soft sandstone eroded into shapes that look like goblins and ghouls. Explore mazes full of natural wonders and feel like you’re out of this world.

You can even reserve two heated yurts to enjoy winter stargazing, because this is another Utah park that has been designated a dark sky park by the International Dark-Sky Association. Other than being closed occasionally because the staff is out for lunch, this park is open all year. Just make sure you check seasonal hours before you take off.

Travel Highway 12 to Experience the Ultimate Driving Experience

What better way to enjoy your Volkswagen than driving the All-American road? Highway 12 in Utah is a scenic byway that connects two of America’s most famous parks: Capitol Reef National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. As you drive between these two beauties, you’ll notice sites like the Dixie National Forest and the Escalante Petrified Forest.

In the winter, Bryce Canyon’s Ruby’s Inn puts on a spectacular winter festival. You can see the bright orange rock that gives this Utah town its glow, snow capped and gorgeous. This winter event includes skiing, a human-powered sled race, and winter archery.

You’ll be driving this highway for a relaxing 124 miles, both ways. So, make sure you visit your Volkswagen service center before you hit the open road. Just search “Volkswagen near me,” and you’ll get directions to the nearest Volkswagen dealer at VW SouthTowne to help you set up an appointment for your vehicle.

Take Your Drone Out on Antelope Island

Did you know that you can visit an island in the contiguous United States? That’s right: in a day’s drive to Salt Lake, you can see Antelope Island, where there are more than 20 miles of hiking trails, hundreds of bison, and historic ranch houses.

Have you been itching to take your drone somewhere scenic? Get to Antelope Island and send your drone into the sky to catch breathtaking aerial views. You can only fly your drone in the winter and need a permit, so make sure you plan ahead.

You can soak up some sun and scenery by using an electric bicycle to pedal you through Antelope Island or catch a ride on a horse to explore the open range. Head back to Salt Lake City after your fun day out, and relax in a luxury hotel room before heading home.

Sometimes, the Best Vacation Is at Home

When your week is long, and you’re exhausted, your home can be the best place to unwind. Head to the grocery store and fill your VW up with all your favorite things, switch off your smart devices, and just take the time to slow down for a moment. Those incredible winter destinations will wait for you on your next adventure.

Find the Best Volkswagen Dealer at VW SouthTowne to Get You on the Road This Winter

If you’ve been searching for the “best new and used car dealerships near me,” then turn to Volkswagen SouthTowne. We are passionate about Volkswagen and dedicated to getting you into a car that meets every one of your needs. You can find sedans, SUVs, and crossovers in a variety of trims to suit your individual style. Contact us at (801) 988-5825 to schedule an appointment for a test drive today!

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