During this season of gratefulness, let’s stop for just a moment to remember that some of the most beautiful places in the world are right here in our backyard. Bonus: being outside, surrounded by nature is one of the safest ways to spend time with others and not spread the virus.
The Gift of an Experience
Exploring our National Parks and public lands is the best gift!
For some adventurers, the gift of an experience is truly the best, especially after a year of restricted experiences due to COVID-19. They don’t need gear, they don’t need stuff, they just want to get out and experience the world. Planning a 2021 adventure to look forward to with the explorer in your life could be the perfect gift to give as things begin opening up again. If you want to give the adventurer in your life a truly unique and thoughtful gift, give them the gift of a personalized experience.
Nation’s Vacation operates several unique properties across the United States, all located within the borders of national parks and public lands. Choose one location to spend a few days exploring all of the sites or make a road trip out of visiting multiple destinations. These are just a few of the many places to choose from for your personalized trip. Be sure to check the COVID-19 policies for these locations as you plan your 2021 adventure!
A Rainforest in Our Backyard
Travel to see some of the world’s largest trees in Olympic National Park.
While we think of America as cities, grasslands, and mountains, many people don’t know there’s a rainforest in our backyard. For a truly unique American experience, head to Olympic National Park to visit a UNESCO designated International Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site. While there, you can stay at the rustic and charming Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort.
Sand Dunes, Birds, and Coastline
Plan a trip to Asilomar in the spring to see the magic pink carpet.
The rocky shoreline of the Pacific coast is home to Asilomar Hotel and Conference Grounds as well as some spectacular birdwatching. The California State Beach and National Marine Sanctuary is home to a unique biosphere and an array of relaxing activities. From birdwatching to bike riding to walking along the shore, there’s plenty to do for those looking for a relaxing getaway.
The Spectacular Sierras
The Ahwahnee is about as stunning as Yosemite National Park.
Founded in 1890, Yosemite National Park is home to some spectacular sights, including numerous waterfalls, some of the oldest and biggest trees in the nation, and countless other natural wonders. While there, be sure to stop by the historic Ahwahnee hotel to enjoy a drink in front of the cozy fireplaces and enjoy the sweeping park views.
If you’re unable to make it to Yosemite in 2021, bring it home! Gift a 2021 calendar and take in the majestic Yosemite views monthly. Gift a wildly cute stuffed animal to your nature-loving kiddo. If you can make a trip, you can also gift some helpful items that will guide your hike or help you set up camp.
Travel Back in Time
Purchases from the Colonial Williamsburg store support the programs of The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation.
Do you know someone who would love to travel back in time in addition to traveling the world? Get them a gift from the historic Colonial Williamsburg. From homemade goods such as soaps and candles to history books to cookbooks of the era, there are a variety of blast from the past colonial-inspired goods waiting to be gifted.
Support Your Parks
Find your park and support it by giving back through the National Parks Foundation.
A gift that gives back brings double the joy. Help support the National Parks by shopping the National Parks Foundation shop. The National Parks Foundation was established through the lobbying efforts of First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson, and philanthropist Laurance Rockefeller, passing through Congress in 1967. They set forth a mission to keep our nation’s land beautiful through conservation efforts, helping protect national parks.
Bird of a Feather
The Cornell Lab of Ornithology helps bird lovers improve their knowledge and help protect our feathered friends.
Memberships, courses, swag, and more, check out what the Cornell Lab of Ornithology has for your bird-loving friends. All purchases help support the understanding and protection of birds. Your friend/loved one will take their eyes to the skies with the field guides, or bring a unique breadth of knowledge to trivia night after taking the Bird Academy Course.
Wear the Wild
Women’s Miami Vice Bear dolman t-shirt.
For the quirky nature lover, check out Wild Tribute’s eclectic mix of tees, sweaters, and tanks. Their funky and fun nature illustrations make these top’s unique and 4% of all proceeds protect historic and wild places.
Get to Shopping!
The holidays are here! Don’t miss out on these nature-inspired gifts that will spark wanderlust in your adventure-seeking loved ones.
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