Grand Canyon Scenic Airlines has launched a new air tour – Native Explorer Tour with Legacy – that combines both a flight-seeing experience above the West Rim and an opportunity to explore the area’s cultural riches. Departing from Grand Canyon West airport on the Hualapai Indian Reservation, the tour offers in-flight narration in 16 languages. A second leg of the journey is by motorcoach, with stops that include the Hualapai Ranch for a Wild West show and Eagle Point for more West Rim views. Tour duration is at the guest’s discretion; prices start at $140 per adult and $120 for children. Contact: www.grandcanyonairlines.com/tours/native-explorer-tour-with-legacy
Sonoma Valley, California brings the concept of sustainability to life with a new product—the Glen Ellen Green Tour, which is a day-long exploration of Quarryhill Botanical Gardens, Jack London State Historic Park and Benziger Family Wineries. The day starts with a docent-led tour of the garden, followed by a tour and lunch at the park. The day winds up with a tour of Benziger’s biodynamic vineyards, fermentation facility, crush pad and barrel caves—with a special tasting of their award-winning wines. Reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance. The cost is $59 per person (limit 10 people). Contact: www.jacklondonpark.com
New among the ranks of whale-watching opportunities is Oceanside Adventures, with a 50-foot, one-level catamaran in Oceanside Harbor that was specifically built for whale watching and marine life excursions. Docked by the historic Harbor Lighthouse, the boat is manned by American Cetacean Society-certified naturalists and offers two-hour trips along the Southern California coastline on a daily basis, year-round. Introductory rates are available through 2015; regular rates are Adults $45; Seniors 55+ and Military, $39; Children up to 12 years, $34; Children 2 and under, $10. Contact: www.oceansidewhalewatching.com
You might not have achieved your own personal Olympic dream, but in British Columbia, the Richmond Olympic Experience will give you a chance to feel the rush of a ski jump, a raging white-water kayak course and the speed of an Olympic bobsleigh track, among other hands-on sporting simulations. Opening Nov. 28, this new attraction at the Richmond Olympic Oval is a highly interactive visitor experience that is also North America’s first and only official member of the Olympic Museums Network. Day passes are $13 for seniors 60+; $17 for adults 19-59; $13 for youth 13-18; $11 for child 6-12; free (under 6). Group rates are available. Contact: www.therox.ca
Just opened in in San Clemente are the Outlets at San Clemente, a new Spanish village-like shopping center that overlooks the Pacific Ocean. Among the 70 retailers are Calvin Klein, Cole Haan, GUESS, H&M, Levi’s, Nike, Under Armour and more. VIP perks abound: loyalty program with exclusive lounge, valet parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, baggage check and stroller or wheelchair rentals. Contact: www.outletsatsanclemente.com
While the clapper rail may be an elusive entry on your lifetime birding list, you can still catch a glimpse of 20 African birds and other exotic avians, such as Demoiselle Cranes (who recently hatched a chick) and Turacos, at Safari West in Santa Rosa, California. The park’s new Treetop Aviary features a walk-around ramp and an elevated viewing deck to gaze at their newest residents. Pricing depends on the day of the week and month; starting prices for adults (13-61) are $83; seniors (62+), $80; children (3-12), $45. Group rates are available. Contact: www.safariwest.com
