Drew's Backyard Bucket List

10 Destinations Worth the Trip

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"Santa Fe was even better than I'd hoped it would be."

If you're craving a change of scenery, this list is your new copilot. These spots have it all: soulful hotels, natural wonders, little local surprises and souvenirs you'll actually want to keep. Grab your bag, cue the playlist and let's go!

The El Rey serves quintessential Southwestern style.

1. Austin, Texas

Equal parts calm and cool, city and country. Stay at the tucked-away Lake Austin Inn & Spa (lakeaustin.com). Paddleboard in the morning mist, hunt for the perfect pair of cowboy boots downtown and chase live music wherever it leads you. Stick around the Congress Bridge at dusk to catch the bats (yes, bats!), one of nature’s most surprising light shows.

2. Palm Springs, Calif.

Desert cool with a splash of retro sunshine. Start your morning at Les Cactus Hotel (