Southwest Landscapes

Begin the journey in sunny San Diego, California. Fly into San Diego International Airport — conveniently located near the heart of the city — where you can easily pick up a rental car. There are plenty of pristine beaches to choose from, including the scenic resort town of Coronado, about a 15-minute drive from the city. Spend a day exploring this ocean-side community by biking, soaking up the sun on the public beaches or embarking on a sailing tour. If you’re looking for a place to hang your hat, check in at the Hotel del Coronado, which has offered luxury beachside lodging for more than 125 years. While in San Diego, devote some time to the city’s beloved Balboa Park, where you will find the San Diego Zoo, 15 museums and other attractions. The nation’s largest urban cultural park, the picturesque park is a favorite among locals for not only for its world-class culture, but for its distinctive architecture and open spaces. The internationally acclaimed San Diego zoo houses more than 3,500 animals from all across the globe, as well as over 700,000 exotic plants. A trip to San Diego isn’t complete without a visit to one of the city’s microbreweries; to get a taste for local beer, tag along on a guided brewery tour. For dinner, shopping and nightlife, head to Old Town San Diego or the Gaslamp Quarter.

Kick off the drive east by heading north on Interstate Highway 15 past rolling hills covered in grape vines to Temecula, California. A part of Southern California’s wine country, Temecula is known for its mild climate, its booming wine scene, bed & breakfasts, spas, and restaurants. The area offers about 30 vineyards including the lauded cozy Vindemia Estate Winery, as well as a charming old town with wooden boardwalks and Pechanga, a casino resort.