The Bill Williams River National Wildlife Refuge is found at the far reaches of southeastern Lake Havasu. Rumored to contain the largest surviving cottonwood-willow woodlands of the lower Colorado River, the Refuge covers 6,000 acres. Perhaps most importantly, the Bill Williams River serves as a comfortable refuge to over 300 species of birds and waterfowl. There are a number of endangered species currently in propagation, including the razorback sucker fish and bony-tail chubs, which are indigenous to the Bill Williams River. Additionally, the Audubon Society named the Refuge an area of global significance in 2011.

Campuhan Ridge Walk is a 2 km trail just outside Ubud, running above rice fields and palm trees with open views across rolling hills and plenty of greenery. It’s a simple way to escape the town buzz without heading far.

Transport yourself back to the 16th century with a trip to the annual Renaissance Festival in nearby Shakopee, Minnesota. Laugh at court jesters, shop for handicrafts, watch a joust and enjoy some delicious, authentic fare. The festival opens in mid-August and wraps up in late September.