New view from Pikes Peak
The Pikes Peak Summit Complex is poised for its debut summer. Pikes Peak Highway drivers will park and enter the new $65 million glass and steel edifice tucked into the summit's craggy southeast corner. The cramped, cabin-like predecessor from 1964 is gone, replaced by something triple in size. Interactive displays tell the story of the mountain, and an extensive walkway circulates the summit. A platform juts out high above the imposing Bottomless Pit. "That north overlook gives you that Titanic moment," said Jack Glavan, manager of Pikes Peak — America's Mountain. "I think some people are gonna be hesitant to actually walk out there."
Colorado Springs Gazette
Masks off at Disney
Walt Disney World is making it easier to see smiles again, but guests still can't hug the characters. Face masks are now optional for theme park resort visitors who are vaccinated, though Disney workers won't require proof of vaccination. Visitors who aren't fully vaccinated, including children under 12, still need to wear face masks indoors and on all rides and attractions. All visitors are still required to wear face coverings on buses, monorails and the resort's aerial gondola. "We're not quite ready to bring back everything yet," the company said on its website, "but we are optimistic and look forward to the day when Disney pals and princesses are able to hug once again."
Associated Press
Ireland opens July 19
Vaccinated Americans will once again be able to travel to Ireland starting on July 19. Children between ages 7 and 18 who haven't been vaccinated must test negative for COVID-19 in order to enter. Unvaccinated adults must also test negative and quarantine until they receive a second negative test result. Tourism Ireland has launched a $4.2 million promotional campaign to build on the desire to travel to Ireland. Two million of Ireland's 11.3 million visitors in 2019 were North Americans.
TravelPulse
Amtrak pass on sale
Amtrak has discounted its USA Rail Pass, which allows passengers to travel up to 10 different segments anywhere in the United States over a 30-day period for $299. Passengers can hop on and hop off at 500 Amtrak destinations across the nation. The deal is available until June 22, and you have up to 120 days to start using the pass. If you wanted to travel from the Twin Cities to New York City, the trip would be considered two segments: the Empire Builder from St. Paul to Chicago and then transfer to the Lake Shore Limited from Chicago to New York City. Pass passengers can only book seats in Economy Class, which is quite roomy on Amtrak. The pass is fully refundable for 120 days after purchase if you have not used it.
Tribune Content Agency
Take a 'second city' trip
This summer, you might want to skip the metropolis for a smaller, less dense location. Instead of New York City, consider Cape May, N.J.: With the ocean on one side and grand Victorian homes on the other, sprawl out on the beach with expansive views. Instead of Los Angeles, consider Joshua Tree: Go camping (or glamping) amid rugged rock formations. Instead of Chicago, look for wildlife at Indiana Dunes National Park, which spans 15 miles of the Lake Michigan shoreline. Instead of Phoenix, consider Flagstaff, Ariz.: You might make a stop when driving Route 66. Depending on the season, you may find snow.
Nerd Wallet
