Stretching 160 miles through Utah, the Wasatch Range makes a rugged, glacial backdrop for the 85% of the state’s population living within 15 miles. Mount Nebo is highest at 11,928 feet, but the peaks around Alta and Park City are most popular. "The greatest snow on earth" falls on these spectacular slopes. Lone Peak’s granite outcrops provide top climbing. Canyons and valleys are loved by fly-fishermen and hikers. After all that adventure, retire to a hip restaurant or enticing hot tub in chic Park City.

Only 35 minutes from the SLC Airport, Park City's rugged beauty is complemented by over 100 restaurants and bars, open air concerts, numerous spas and health clubs, plays, independent film screenings, a series of world-class events and festivals, and as many kinds of lodging as there are people. If you're into thrills, try out the summertime version of the bobsled at the Utah Olympic Park or challenge yourself at one of several area golf courses.

The city was named after fearless fur-trader and adventurer, Peter Skene Ogden, who explored the untamed area in the 1820s. Since then, Ogden has seen poverty and prosperity, conflict and celebration. Today, although a more subdued and modern place, the city is still big on action and adventure the whole family can enjoy. Take the kids to ogle the more than 100 life-size replicas of pre-historic creatures at the Ogden Dinosaur Park and Museum. Or head to the Tree House Museum, one of the best of its kind in the U.S. Adults will find plenty to enjoy on local golf courses or hiking trails in the summer, and everyone will love the local winter ski resorts. A grand old depot, Union Station is a must see for history buffs and anyone interested in trains and railroads. Be sure to stroll along 25th Street downtown. This historic block was the center of activity in the early 20th-century and is home to many restored buildings from the railroad era. The street also boasts an eclectic mix of restaurants, one-of-a kind shops, antique stores and art galleries.

“Life’s a Beach” all right on Pensacola Beach where building sandcastles, body surfing and beachcombing are popular pastimes. Away from the sands, there are several don’t miss sights for the entire family, including the National Aviation Museum, which features 150 vintage aircraft, flight simulators and an IMAX Theatre, Fort Pickens, an historic military fort built in 1829, and the Pensacola Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on the Gulf Coast and also the tallest, standing 151 feet tall on a 40 foot bluff. To immerse yourself in the history of Pensacola, stroll the historic village, a pedestrian-friendly area with furnished historic homes, unique museums and the Colonial Archeological Trail. For the white dimpled ball set, try teeing up at Lost Key Golf Club, a target golf set up designed by Arnold Palmer and Marcus Pointe Golf club, an Earl Stone design. Don’t forget, there’s also great deep-sea fishing and other water activities like sailing, kayaking, diving and snorkeling to be actively pursued on Pensacola Beach.

You'll find it all in Manta: world-class beaches, culture, history, and some of the best seafood of your life. Start at Playa Murciélago, where most of the town gathers daily for volleyball games, sun-soaking, and next-level sunsets. Pair that with some ceviche (practically an art form here) from a beachside kiosk, and you're pretty much set. For a bit of local culture (and more seafood), swing by El Mercado Central where you can pick and grill your own fish or Central Bank Museum for a solid crash course in Ecuadorian history. When you want to get off the beaten path, head to Los Frailes Beach for its turquoise waters and photo-worthy views from the cliffs. It's about an hour from Manta, but totally worth the trip.