SOUTHLAKE, Texas, Jul 25, 2006 (BUSINESS WIRE) — Responsible for cultivating the cowboy culture, the western genre and a few notorious outlaws, the American Old West makes for an excellent vacation experience for today’s travelers. With rodeo’s high season now in motion, Travelocity editors set out to discover the history of the American West and how travelers can experience cowboy culture in North America.
“Cowboy culture is a way of life that vacationers can experience in a number of ways at destinations across the western United States,” Jennifer Gaines, a Travelocity editor, said. “Travelers can meander through a museum for a relaxing, educational experience or even learn to ride a bull if they’re looking for something a little more daring.”
Travelocity editors recommend these cowboy culture experiences and give tips and advice on where to go and what to expect while visiting western influenced destinations in the United States:
Dude Ranches: Known for its spirit of romance and adventure, the American West cultivated a way of life that is celebrated and practiced even today. Travelers can experience life as a rancher at dude ranches across the country, including Paws Up in Montana.
Bull Riding Adventure: Experience “rodeo’s version of fantasy baseball with horns” at Sankey Rodeo’s Vision Quest Bull Riding and Bullfighting Adventure at locations throughout the country. Choose between a three or four day class and learn the art of bull riding and bullfighting alongside professional cowboys.
World’s Largest Outdoor Rodeo: The self-proclaimed “Daddy of ’em All,” Cheyenne Frontier Days is the world’s largest outdoor rodeo and western celebration. Each July, thousands of visitors from around the world go to Cheyenne, Wyo. for rodeo action, western art and cultural entertainment.
National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame: The National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame is the only museum in the world dedicated to honoring women of the American West. Located in Ft. Worth, Texas, it preserves western heritage through collections and exhibits such as Ride: A Global Adventure, on display through Oct. 1.
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering: The National Cowboy Poetry Gathering in Elko, Nev. is a week-long celebration of life in the rural West. This annual ritual, held in late January, honors the western culture through arts such as poetry, music, stories, film, photography and food.
How can travelers experience the American West?
— Visit museums and cultural events dedicated to this historic time.
— Vacation at a working dude ranch for a first hand experience.
— Explore one of the many historic trails by horseback.
— Attend a rodeo or even learn how to ride a bull.
What can travelers expect while visiting the American West?
— Entertainment for couples of all ages and families alike.
— A cultural and educational experience
— Rugged scenery and outdoor activities.
More American West Destinations: -- Jackson Hole, Wyo. -- Steamboat, Colo. -- Whitefish, Mont. -- Deadwood, S.D. -- Telluride, Colo. -- Sun Valley, Idaho -- Aspen, Colo. -- Bigfork, Mont. -- Tucson, Ariz.
For more information on cowboy culture, visit www.travelocity.com/cowboy.
Deals
— Cheyenne, Wyo.: Holiday Inn from $81 per night on weekdays in September and October.
— Aspen, Colo.: The Stonebridge Inn from $120 per night.
— Tucson, Ariz.: Westward Look Resort from $80 per night.
About Travelocity
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SOURCE: Travelocity
VOLLMER Sie Soheili, 972-488-4790 sie@vollmerpr.com or Andrea Collins, 212-715-2222 andrea@vollmerpr.com
