Looking for an Inexpensive Vacation? Try a National Park

Americans are not prepared to give up their vacations despite the economic slowdown. According to the Travel Industry Association, six out of ten Americans will not make changes to their travel plans because of rising gas prices. In the next few months, vacationers will simply alter their travel habits: some will seek cheaper transportation, lodging and recreation; some will take shorter trips and others will stick to “staycations,” keeping close to home.

For the latter—travelers looking for an inexpensive vacation nearby—national parks are a good way to go. National parks allow travelers to explore, discover and enjoy Mother Nature’s greatest creations without burning a hole in their wallets yet still give vacationers the much-needed break they’re looking for.

In response to the slowing economy and rising gas prices, ARAMARK Parks and Destinations’ national park properties are offering package deals for travelers this year. Here are some destination ideas to help travelers save money and capitalize on their vacation experience by visiting a national park this summer:

• Alaskans have a wide selection of national parks to choose from. For example, residents of Anchorage and Fairbanks have the option of hopping on over to Denali National Park, located in the unspoiled interior of Alaska. Denali is now offering half-price deals for a two-night stay plus a $100 gas card as part of its Summer Celebration campaign through September 17, 2008. Guests can also ask about two-for-one specials on tours and activities. Another popular destination for viewing Alaskan wildlife is Glacier Bay National Park near Gustavus. Guests can take advantage of the low-priced and convenient ferry service straight to the national park in a majestic watery escape from the modern world.


• In the Pacific Northwest, Seattleites and Washingtonians can head to the Olympic National Park to experience a diverse ecosystem like no other in the world. Just three hours from the national park, Seattle residents can take advantage of a full spectrum of activities and climates they may not normally get to appreciate among the hustle and bustle of the big city. From Sept. 16 through Oct. 25, 2008, the lodges in the Olympic Peninsula will offer a “Gas Savings Getaway” package, available Sundays through Thursdays. Starting at just $349, guests will receive a one-night stay at Lake Quinault Lodge, Kalaloch Lodge and Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort. In addition, they are entitled to a $50 gas card that can be redeemed at Kalaloch Lodge. Visitors looking for a bang for their buck can explore an emerald green rainforest, go clam digging at the beach and soak in a pure mineral pool all in one trip!


• Traveling a little further south, residents from California and Nevada can head on over to Zephyr Cove at Lake Tahoe this fall with the “Fall Fuel” offer. By staying two nights at Zephyr Cove Resort between Sept. 2 and Dec. 15, 2008, visitors will receive a $25 gas card. Stay three nights and get a $50 gas card! The gas cards are redeemable upon check-out. Reservations must be booked by Sept. 30, 2008. Located on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe, Zephyr Cove Resort & Marina has been a historic recreational destination for more than a century, and today offers everything from camping and lakeside cabins to boating and cruises to Emerald Bay. Guests can enjoy endless activities and fun on the crystal blue waters of the lake and take advantage of the gift card to gas up their vehicles before heading home.


• Locals in the Southwest region can head to Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado this summer without the stresses of gas prices. Mesa Verde is offering a $25 fuel certificate in its “Retail Rally” campaign. If consumers spend a minimum of $25 on retail items at each of the park’s four retail stores (Far View Lodge, Far View Terrace, Spruce Tree Terrace and Morefield Campstore), they will receive $25 worth of gas at Morefield station on their way out of the park. A World Heritage Site, Mesa Verde is the largest archaeological preserve in North America and houses the world-renowned cliff dwellings of the Anasazi, as well as the first ever national park designated to preserve the works of man. With endless original artifacts and artwork in the stores, it won’t be hard to earn that gas card!


• In Wyoming, Togwotee Mountain Lodge is offering gas at $2.99 per gallon with a confirmed stay at the property. A coupon will be issued at check-in and is good for a maximum of 30 gallons. This is the perfect chance for residents of Jackson Hole and surrounding areas to escape to the Bridger-Teton National Forest for a night on a mini staycation.


• And on the other side of the country, East Coast dwellers can still take advantage of the “Weekday Getaway” package at Shenandoah National Park in Virginia now that the deal has been extended through Sept. 25. The package includes a night’s lodging for two at either Skyland Resort or Big Meadows Lodge, breakfast for two and two tickets to Luray Caverns for just $129. Plus, for guests staying a second night at the lodge, Shenandoah is offering $30 gas vouchers good at any ARAMARK gas station in the park. The park holds more than 500 miles of trails, including 101 of the Appalachian Trail, allowing visitors to explore the canyons and waterfalls, select the finest from the countless apple trees and admire the surrounding wildlife and wildflowers at no cost.
  

With more than 50 national parks across the U.S. to choose from, Americans will be able to economize by sticking to destinations right in their backyard. A great alternative to spending hundreds of dollars at ritzy hotels in high-priced tourist areas, national parks give consumers the opportunity to relax and coexist with Mother Nature without feeling the pinch of a tightening economy!

And nowadays national park destinations cater to foodies through award-winning chefs who serve sustainable, gourmet meals. Although the option for hot dogs and burgers is available, travelers can expect surprisingly delicious cuisine while on their “staycations” this summer.

For more information on the above-mentioned gas deals, please visit www.Aramarkparksanddestinations.com/gasoffers

*Disclaimer: Extra person and pet fees apply. Valid for new reservations only and some blackout dates may apply.

SOURCE ARAMARK