Hipmunk Hotels: Adventures in Alabama and Arkansas (the Gulf Shores, Mobile, Huntsville, and more)

This post is in cooperation with Hipmunk and was originally published on MappingMegan.com 

Arkansas and Alabama are two of the most naturally beautiful States in America, so it comes as no surprise that outdoor adventurers flock here from every corner of the globe.

With plenty of adventure on offer in the sky, on the water, and on land, you’ll never be bored with a trip to one of the following southern destinations. This is a list of epic adventures in Alabama and Arkansas: the Gulf Shores, Mobile, Huntsville, and more.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

There are plenty of options for adventure in Alabama’s Gulf Shores, and those who love spending time on the water are in for a treat. Adventure here ranges from dolphin cruises to chartered fishing trips, and there are boat rentals available for those excited about exploring the Gulf of Mexico and the back bays.

Prefer a land-based adventure? Try the Historic Fort Morgan or the zipline course at Gulf State Park. Gulf Shores is a resort community, so hotels here are very close to each of the above attractions.

Photo CC by The Pug Father

Mobile, Alabama

Mobile was selected by National Geographic as one of America’s 100 best adventure towns, and the options here won’t disappoint. This is a historic port city that serious fishers and shipwreck explorers will absolutely love. Kayakers and hikers revel in old Native American shell mounts, and many travel here to charter sailboats in the Gulf of Mexico for deep-sea fishing.

The best part about an adventure holiday in Mobile is the cheap lodging. Book at the Hampton Inn Mobile/Bellingrath Gardens for rooms starting at $100 per night.

Huntsville, Alabama

Hunstville is a fantastic destination for outdoor adventure, offering Alabama’s very best trails for hiking, cycling, trail running, climbing, mountain biking, paddling, and more. Whether you’re aiming for a quick excursion or a multi-day adventure, Huntsville has a lot to offer.

For the best climbing, head to Jamestown. For the best paddling, head to the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge. Head to Monte Sano State Park for scenic trail running.

Huntsville is a picturesque place, so be sure to book a hotel with a good view.

Hot Springs Village, Arkansas

While known for its naturally hot springs, Hot Springs Village is a great opportunity to try ziplining in Arkansas, and many different packages are available, from the original canopy zip tour to a full moon zip and even a haunted forest tour.

The full moon tour is particularly adventurous. Once a month, travelers gather for the thrill of zipping through a dark forest! Arriving at dusk, you will harness up and get ready to soar through the night-time sky.

Photo CC by edwardotis

Little Rock, Arkansas

For those looking for some extreme adventure, Little Rock has you covered. If you enjoy the sensation of free-falling, try skydiving, parachuting, hang gliding, or a range of other aerial sports. There is no better way to take in the breathtaking panoramic view of Arkansas than with a bird’s-eye view.

A great place for hang gliding is at Mount Magazine. At 2.753 feet high, this is the state’s tallest mountain. You can also hang glide at Mount Nebo or the Ouachita Mountains.

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About Meg

Megan is an Australian Journalist who has been travelling and blogging since 2007, with the main aim of inspiring others to embark on their own worldwide adventure. Her husband Mike is an American travel photographer, and together they have made the world their home.

Committed to bringing you the best in adventure travel from all around the globe, there is no mountain too high, and no fete too extreme! They haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on their list.

Follow their journey on Facebook, TwitterYouTube,Pinterest and Instagram.

 

Carry On with Bravo TV’s Tour Group Host Brandon Presser

This post is in cooperation with Hipmunk and was originally published on Hipmunk’s Tailwind Blog by The Hipmunk on March 4, 2016

Brendon_Pressor_Carry_On

As a travel expert, TV host, and writer, Brandon Presser is no stranger to life on the go. Presser, who has visited more than 100 countries, has penned over 50 travel books, and is a regular contributor for such publications as Afar, Travel + Leisure, The Daily Beast, and National Geographic Traveler. And while he may be well known in the travel industry, he’s about to experience a whole new level of recognition: Presser is the lead host of Bravo TV’s new travel-based reality show, “Tour Group“, which tags along as 11 travelers search for the ultimate vacation. (10 p.m. EST/PST on Bravo.)  We got Presser to stay in one place long enough to give us his best travel advice, his favorite places to go, and the items he can’t leave home without.  

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Searching for Spirit of Sedona

Written in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique hotel 2016 campaign.

Sedona, Arizona can surely be regarded as one of the most scenic small cities in the United States. Part spectacular scenery, part spiritual vortex, part resort town, Sedona offers up something for any interest. Challenge yourself to a hike in the majestic Red Rock Mountains. Explore the over 40 art galleries. Or possibly spend your time luxuriating in one of the many spas after a delicious lunch. It can all be yours in Sedona.

image via Flickr by zen!

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Choosing Convenience in the City by the Bay

This post is in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique 2016 campaign

San Francisco; the City by the Bay, the Gateway to the Pacific. There are many titles given to this amazing West Coast city, all of them worthy of such magnificent surroundings. Set on San Francisco Bay, home to San Francisco Sourdough, Alcatraz Island, and the curviest street in the country, this city of around 900,000 residents continues to charm.

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Taking it Easy in Salt Lake City

This post is in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique hotel 2016 campaign

Salt Lake City, the high-elevation capital of Utah, draws visitors from around the world. With its close proximity to both snow for skiing and the Great Salt Lake for water sports, this Western city’s scenic setting is matched with world class activities. Whether you are interested in hearing the Mormon Tabernacle Choir in person or taking in a Utah Jazz game, there is much to see and do at 4300 feet. Temple Square, the most visited sight in the state, is front and center on every travelers list but the Natural History Museum of Utah and Red Butte Gardens will also draw attention.

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A Hotel for Any Taste in the Windy City

This post is in cooperation with the Hipmunk Boutique hotels 2016 campaign

Chicago, aka The Windy City, is one of the most beloved travel destinations in the United States. Offering up both world class attractions and sightseeing, Chicago is also renowned for its bold architectural style and sweeping skyline along the “magnificent mile”.  One of the largest cities in the United States, Chicago can be an intimidating destination to plan for, but keep in mind this robust city offers up a hotel for any taste and budget.

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