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Garden of the Gods- Colorado Springs, CO
Once privately owned by railroad magnate Charles Elliott Perkins, the magnificent Garden of the Gods has been open to the public since 1909. Featuring fabulous sedimentary rock formations formed millions of years ago, it is a showcase of geologic processes. Extremely accessible, it’s an almost overwhelmingly popular place; don’t expect solitude, serenity, or challenging hikes here. Regardless, the scenery is truly spectacular, and it is worth a short stop.
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Glen Eyrie- Colorado Springs, CO
Glen Eyrie sits squarely at the intersection of amazing architecture and spectacular scenery, two of my absolute favorite things. Located on a stunning piece of property at the base of Queen’s Canyon, the castle is almost as magical as the surrounding red rocks.
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Basilica of the National Shrine- Washington, DC
At 129,910 square feet, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is the largest Christian Church in the United States. Built largely between 1924 and 1959, with a break during World War II, the Byzatine/Romanesque Revival shrine consists of 81 chapels, a Crypt Church and the Great Upper Church. Built in the style of medieval churches, the structure is supported by masonry walls, arches and columns rather than structural steel. The interior is adorned with magnificent murals and breathtaking tile mosaics, rivaling even the finest cathedrals in Europe.
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President Lincoln’s Cottage- Washington, DC
Tucked away in quiet corner of D.C., only 3 miles from the White House, sits President Lincoln’s Cottage. The quaint Gothic Revival, originally built for a bank president, is the centerpiece of several stunning historic structures located at the Armed Forces Retirement Home.
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Great Falls/C&O Canal NHP- Potomac, MD
Fourteen miles upstream from Washington, D.C., the Potomac River dramatically drops in elevation. Falling 76 feet in less than a mile, the result is a stunning series of steep tiered cascades. The falls are best viewed from Olmstead Island, accessible by the C&O Canal tow path, where even high above the river, the water’s power is palpable.
