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As the United States turns 250, turn your attention to these historical milestones that molded the region: gold fever, marvels of engineering and nature, and casinos royale.
A spontaneous weekend, a midweek escape, or a few days to unwind — now is the perfect time to step away to Savannah. The DeSoto sits at the heart of downtown, offering easy access to the city’s storied and spectacular charms.
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Holiday Inn Club Vacations® brings you the ease of home and the excitement of a resort stay in destinations like Orlando, Myrtle Beach, and plenty more. Spend the day poolside, then settle into your spacious villa with dedicated gathering areas designed for quality time.
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5 Historical Milestones that Shaped the Mountain West > The DeSoto in Savannah, Georgia > Flavors to Travel for in Atlanta > Discover Sunny Enchantment in Orlando this Winter >
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Can One Trip Really Please Everyone? In Branson, Yes. > Be Inspired by the Architectural Treasures and Desert Landscapes of Palm Springs > Dear RCI > Dream Big, Book Now at These Available Resorts >
RCI Magazine is published quarterly by RCI. ©2026 RCI, LLC. All rights reserved. CORPORATE OFFICE 501 W. Church St., Orlando, FL 32805 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Kylee Krizmanic PROJECT EDITORS Allison Vancura, Austin Cannon GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ruby Pierce, Maddy Lickteig CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Erin Gifford, Gary Thompson, Jamie Ballard, Lisa A. Beach, Karla Walsh, Kathryn Streeter COPY EDITOR Diane Penningroth RCI EDITORIAL TEAM Anna Reinert, Karen Johnson, Jenny Rains To Our Subscribers: The annual subscription cost of RCI Magazine is $109USD or $143CAD for RCI Weeks® members and $134USD or $176CAD for RCI Points® members. Send your renewal together with your name, address, telephone number, email address, and RCI member ID to: RCI Magazine Subscriptions, P.O. Box 2099, Carmel, IN 46082-2070. For address changes, subscription inquiries, or cancellations, call an RCI Travel Guide. RCI Weeks members, please call: United States: 317-805-8000 or 800-338-7777 Canada: 800-338-7777 (English) 800-527-5219 (French) RCI Points members, please call: United States: 317-805-9941 or 877-968-7476 Canada: 877-968-7476 (English/French) No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission from RCI, LLC (or its affiliates). RCI Magazine® and Design and RCI® and Design are trademarks of RCI, LLC (or its affiliates), and are registered in countries throughout the world and may not be used without permission. For editorial and advertising inquiries, email magazine@rci.com. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial advertising matter and accepts no responsibility for advertising content or the damage tht may arise from these advertisements. Publisher assumes no responsibility for the return or unsolicited manuscripts or art. Unsolicited manuscripts and art will not be returned unless accompanied by return postage and envelope. In no event shall such material subject this magazine to any claim for “holding fees” or similar charges. Merrill #022022400.
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Christel House is proud to celebrate the opening of its newest campus: Christel House India — Pune. As our third school in India and tenth worldwide, this expansion reflects both steady growth and a deepening commitment to serving more children. A fourth school in India will open its doors this June in Thane, located in the Mumbai metropolitan area.
christel house — From Classrooms to Life
From quick weekend escapes to memory-making family getaways, cruising makes it easy to see more, do more, and relax more. All without the hassle and at the best prices around when you book with RCI Cruise.
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From quick weekend escapes to memory-making family getaways, cruising makes it easy to see more, do more, and relax more. All without the hassle and at the best prices around when you book with RCI Cruise. Whether you’re dreaming of a sunny winter break with the kids or mapping out 2027, there’s a cruise and a destination waiting to fit your plants.
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Holiday Inn club vacations — join us for summer fun
This summer, don't just get away. Get it all. Spacious villas with full kitchens. In-villa or onsite laundry. Room to spread out. City, beach, desert, mountain, sunny and snowy destinations to choose from. And family friendly amenities like indoor waterparks, lazy rivers, mini golf, horseback riding, arcades and more. Join us at one of our 28 resorts this summer and you'll know what it means to get it all when you get away.
At RCI, our love of travel comes from the belief that life’s best moments are rooted in connection. Slowing down for island life. Going with the flow in bustling cities. Reveling in the joy of discovery with those we hold most dear. For many of us, including me, summer is a time of togetherness, and as we start to look ahead to the rest of 2026 and beyond, I’m excited to share what’s on the horizon for you as part of your RCI membership. You may already be noticing new enhancements to make vacation planning easier than ever. We’re rolling out improved search capabilities that help you find your perfect getaway faster. We’re also expanding the use of Currency + Cash, giving you greater flexibility and more ways to turn your travel goals into reality. Apply your trading power or points toward hotel stays, cruises, and even extra getaways. These updates are all about putting more choice at your fingertips. This year also marks a meaningful milestone: the 250th birthday of the United States. It’s a time to reflect on the stories, places, and people that have shaped the nation, and there’s no better way to experience that history than by traveling through it. Every iconic landmark offers a chance to connect with the country’s rich heritage and create your own memories along the way. There’s so much to celebrate in the year ahead, and 2026 is still wide open with opportunities to add more dots to the map. At the same time, there’s just as much to look forward to beyond it. You can already begin dreaming big for 2027 and booking travel to new destinations you’ve longed to explore. With RCI, you have more flexibility than ever to travel when and how you want, making it easier to say yes to both spontaneous escapes and carefully planned milestones. Wherever your travels take you next, we’re here to help you discover the wonder of it all.
Georgia’s capital city is home to the busiest airport in the world, so it tracks that Atlanta is a hub for culinary delights from around the globe. Ahead, we’re revealing the best bites, including Southern fare and diverse dishes from Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, and beyond.
Trade snow boots for flip-flops this winter in Orlando, where sunshine and family-friendly adventures pair perfectly with the flexibility and value of your RCI membership.
However you like to travel, Branson makes it easy to be together. With thrills at Silver Dollar City, lakeside relaxation, and live shows for all ages, Branson is the rare destination where every generation finds its groove. Here’s what to do on your next visit.
Palm Springs, California blends midcentury modernism, desert landscapes, and playful poolside glamour.
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Amy Lipka Senior Vice President, Business Development, Travel Solutions, and Marketing – North America
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In 1848, once news broke of gold at Sutter’s Mill, a sawmill on the South Fork of the American River, San Francisco rapidly transformed from a humble settlement into a thriving port city. This prompted one of the largest voluntary migrations in history. Drawn by the lure of fortune, miners and merchants flocked to the city in search of the precious metal, fueling its status as a major center of commerce and accelerating its path to statehood in 1850. Today, if you make your basecamp in the heart of historic San Francisco, you can see how this vibrant city still holds traces of its gold rush roots throughout its waterfront and streets.
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STAY | Hotel Caza
STAY | Club Wyndham Park City
In 1863, two companies set out on a race to build a coast-to-coast railroad: the Central Pacific laid track east from California, and the Union Pacific worked west from Nebraska. In 1869, the tracks met at Promontory Summit in Utah — joined by a golden spike. The 1,900-mile railroad transformed how people and goods moved, cutting travel time and opening the Mountain West to rapid growth. Towns sprang up, trade boomed, and industry gained momentum. At the heart of it all, Utah emerged as a vital crossroads, and its legacy as a gateway to the West still shapes its identity today.
STAY | WorldMark Moab
In 1916, the U.S. government created the National Park Service, forever changing the way travelers discover the country’s vast natural wonders. Soon after, New Deal programs like the Civilian Conservation Corps made these remote places accessible to visitors, and Utah rose as an NPS star with its Mighty Five iconic parks: Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion. Between Arches and Canyonlands, Moab has become a hub for adventure-seekers, primely positioned for sightseeing, hiking, photography, and discovery.
STAY | The Berkley, Las Vegas
Completed in 1936, the massive Hoover Dam tamed the wild Colorado River, preventing floods and providing water and electricity that powered the growth of cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Phoenix. Today, the area blends engineering marvels and desert exploration. And just beyond the Strip, visitors can effortlessly pair resort-style stays with outdoor exploration. Lake Mead, the dam’s vast reservoir, irrigates 2 million acres of farmland, enabling large-scale agricultural production in the Mountain West. Lake Mead National Recreational Area, managed by the National Park Service, draws millions of visitors each year for boating and hiking.
STAY | The Grandview at Las Vegas
After Nevada legalized gambling in 1931 to fight the Great Depression, casinos transformed Las Vegas. The post-World War II boom (1940s–1960s) saw the Flamingo, Sands, and Stardust open on the Strip, buoyed by highway travel and, in some cases, mob money. This put Vegas on the national map. The second wave (late 1980s–2000s) brought corporate investments and themed mega-resorts such as The Bellagio, MGM Grand, and The Venetian, elevating Vegas to a vibrant global destination status with spacious accommodations perfect for longer stays and group getaways to reset in style.
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Recharge in comfort and style at this family-friendly hotel in the heart of historic Fisherman’s Wharf. It embodies the spirit of California, full of fun, warmth, and special extras to enhance your vacation experience. Discover Lovers Lane at the Presidio, bike the trail along Crissy Field, or hike the Crosstown Trail, the longest trail in San Francisco. When you are ready for some relaxation, dip your feet in the Pacific Ocean at Baker Beach.
Hotel Caza
From dawn to dusk, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy in the scenic Park City. Hike and mountain bike through wooded trails and wildflower-covered hillsides; sail, paddle board, fly fish, or raft down a river; or browse art galleries and stroll Park Silly Sunday Market. The resort offers one, two, three, and four-bedroom units that comfortably accommodate four to twelve guests, providing plenty of room to be together for each adventure.
Club Wyndham Park City
This 18-story high-rise luxury building offers condo-style suites with all the comforts of home without the everyday distractions. Suites have well-appointed kitchens, a living room with a queen sleeper sofa, and a dining area. The resort’s amenities include a swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, business center, activity center, and barbecue area.
The Berkley, Las Vegas
Stay near some of the best national parks in Utah, including Arches and Canyonlands National Parks, where you can hike, bike, and stroll among sandstone arches and dramatic canyons. After adventuring, head back to this stylish resort where you can relax in the hot tub, cool off in the pool, make s’mores at the fire pit, or watch the sun set over the red rock formations.
WorldMark Moab
Enjoy your very own oasis in the desert. This family-oriented resort is the perfect place to lounge on the large sundeck by one of the five heated pools, exercise in one of the fitness centers, or play video games in the arcade. It's also adjacent to the South Point Casino, which has several restaurants, a movie theater, and a bowling alley.
The Grandview at Las Vegas
Connect with Savannah’s history through heritage and art at the Telfair Museums in the Historic Landmark District. (Each ticket provides access to all three unique sites and is valid for a full week.) In Lafayette Square, the Gothic-style Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist features vaulted ceilings, contrasting colors, and decorative carvings. Sit back and take in even more of the city’s historic highlights on a horse-drawn carriage tour. When you’re ready for some retail therapy, venture to City Market, Broughton Street, or the Starland District, where you’ll find a treasure trove of boutiques, vintage, and antique shops. Savannah is, famously, a culinary wonderland. Try Husk for Southern cuisine with a modern twist, or Alligator Soul for a game-forward menu with bourbon flights, and save room for a scoop at Leopold’s Ice Cream.
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Experience Savannah's Southern charms this summer.
Resort Spotlight
If you’re craving a quick reset, take on temporary residence in Savannah. While its oak-shaded squares beckon quiet relaxation, Georgia’s oldest city also buzzes with artistic energy, sumptuous style, and a dynamic dining scene that melds Southern comfort and international flavors.
Location: 15 East Liberty St, Savannah, GA 31401 Airport: Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport Property Highlights: SCAD artwork gallery, 1540 Room restaurant, outdoor pool and patio with a seasonal cabana bar
AT A GLANCE
Atlanta is about 250 miles from the Atlantic Ocean, but it’s home to some of the most exceptional sushi experiences in the country. (Hat tip to that airport for making deliveries from Japan a breeze!) Pull up a chair at Omakase Table, Hayakawa, Mujō, and O by Brush to let the chef surprise you with the freshest and best creations, like A5 Wagyu Sukiyaki or soy-marinated black cod with yuzu. If Mediterranean fare is more your style, book a table at Ela for tabbouleh and cauliflower falafel. Or pretend like you’re on a tropical vacation at J’ouvert Caribbean Kitchen & Bar, where jerk chicken and rum punch await. Unsure of what cuisine is calling your name? The Consulate allows diners to tour the globe via the Visa section of its menu that changes location every 90 days.
Find a world of flavor in Atlanta.
Food halls and markets are another excellent option if you’re craving something eclectic. These sizable venues harness ample culinary electricity under one roof, and offer a dish that’s sure to delight a party with different preferences. You could spend a full day hopping around Ponce City Market. In fact, we recommend you do just that by starting with a 100-layer maple-glazed doughnut from Five Daughters Bakery, followed by some co-working at Industrious workspace. Come lunch, snack on chaat from Botiwalla by Chai Pani. Just be sure to save room for a midafternoon scoop courtesy of Honeysuckle Gelato. For dinner, head to the rooftop beer garden for a burger and a brew at 9 Mile Station. Ready for more food hall fun? Swing by Krog Street Market (we’re wild about the tapas from Eclipse di Luna) or Chattahoochee Food Works; Oprah Winfrey declared Delilah’s Everyday Soul’s mac and cheese the “best in the nation.”
Michelin has been awarding stars and recommendations in Atlanta since 2023. For 2025’s Michelin Guide to the American South, Louisiana, North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee joined the party. Despite the wide geographic region, Atlanta still rose to the top with eight one-star restaurants. Among the worthy winners: The aforementioned sushi counters, plus Atlas (modern British), Bacchanalia (contemporary American prix fixe), and Lazy Betty (which has four-course tasting menus for its bar area and for diners who prefer all desserts). For more casual cuisine, select from the bistros that earned Bib Gourmand nods, awarded for the most excellent affordable eats. And if you’re looking to round out your culinary bucket list, no visit to Atlanta is complete without a hot honey chicken biscuit from Bomb Biscuit Company and a pie from Antico Pizza Napoletana.
As wonderful as it is to travel the world through our plates, it sure is nice to celebrate home sweet home. It’s where the heart is, after all, along with some seriously delicious home cooking. Rub elbows with locals at Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours, where you can fuel up with fried green tomatoes, a collard green Caesar salad, and rum peach cobbler. Mary Mac’s Tea Room is iconic for a reason — actually several, including their fried okra, shrimp and grits, and pot likker. Named after the former Miller Union Stockyards, Miller Union puts a modern spin on farmstead-inspired dishes. After a dinner of refined Southern fare, savor the sweeter side of life with a slice of toasted meringue-topped lemon chess tart.
The Terrace has been home to dozens of Hollywood productions, cultural events, and is the official hotel and restaurant of the legendary Fox Theater. Treat yourself to equally iconic dining venues, including Livingston Restaurant + Bar and Edgar’s Proof & Provision, and enjoy the hotel’s penthouse-level fitness center and the rooftop pool.
The Georgian Terrace
Step into the glamour of Atlanta’s historic Candler Building, a 1906 masterpiece built by Coca-Cola magnate Asa Griggs Candler. Infused with Art Deco elegance, the hotel offers an unforgettable stay just minutes from downtown Atlanta’s top attractions, including the Georgia Aquarium, State Farm Arena, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and the College Football Hall of Fame.
The Candler Hotel Atlanta
Relax in the rooftop pool, enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, and savor a refreshing cocktail at the rooftop bar. With exceptional amenities and Southern hospitality, this resort is the perfect place to call home while discovering all that this dazzling metropolis has to offer.
Club Wyndham Atlanta
Located in the heart of downtown Atlanta, this resort overlooks Centennial Olympic Park. Walk to the SkyView Atlanta observation wheel, museums, restaurants, and the Georgia Aquarium. Back at the resort, take in the city skyline from the lounge, or chill at the rooftop pool and bar with your favorite cocktail.
Margaritaville Vacation Club - Atlanta
Where to Stay
Winter is the sweet spot for visiting Walt Disney World Resort, when mild temperatures make park days easier on the whole family. Classic rides and evening fireworks at Magic Kingdom feel relaxed, while walking trails and lush habitats give kids room to roam at Animal Kingdom. EPCOT transforms into a living gallery each January and February for the International Festival of the Arts, blending Broadway performances, artful food studios, and hands-on creativity. Book your Exchange stay through RCI to anchor the week and build in midday pool breaks.
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Dreaming of fun in the sun? Secure your spot in Orlando this winter.
Disney Magic:
Universal Orlando became a four-park destination in 2025 with the opening of Epic Universe. It transports guests through five immersive worlds, including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Ministry of Magic, which delights guests with its 1920s Paris-to-1990s British Ministry vibe. Across the resort, the original Wizarding World lets families sip butterbeer, cast spells, and ride the Hogwarts Express between Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley. Cooler winter evenings make outdoor queues and live shows more enjoyable. An RCI rental stay puts you close enough for full days in Universal’s ever-expanding universe.
Universal Thrills:
SeaWorld Orlando blends marine life and coasters into a single visit — perfect for animal-lovers and thrill-seekers. From November through early January, the park transforms for its annual Christmas Celebration, blanketing the grounds in over 3 million sparkling lights, the towering Sea of Trees display over the lagoon, live holiday shows such as the ice-skating spectacular Winter Wonderland on Ice, and a nightly fireworks finale — all included with regular admission. Between the seasonal magic and big-thrill coasters like Mako, there’s plenty to keep every generation busy.
Tailor-made for younger families, LEGOLAND Florida Resort in nearby Winter Haven offers a gentler pace than Orlando’s megaparks. Kids ages two and older can hop between more than 50 LEGO-themed rides, shows, and attractions scaled for smaller riders, then dive into hands-on building zones that turn imagination into creative masterpieces. On warmer winter days, the on-site water park adds bonus splash time without Florida’s summer steaminess. Thanks to your RCI membership’s flexibility, you can settle into Orlando for the week with an Exchange stay.
When the day’s big adventures wind down, ICON Park makes for a low-key evening. The landmark observation wheel delivers sweeping views of the Orlando skyline, while SEA LIFE Orlando Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, and a handful of casual restaurants give families plenty to enjoy without committing to another full itinerary. No extra park ticket required, no rigid schedule to follow, just a walk-in, walk-around evening that lets you set your own pace. Staying at an RCI-affiliated resort nearby makes it all effortless.
Orlando moves at a gentler pace once you step away from the theme parks, especially at Harry P. Leu Gardens. The 50-acre botanical garden offers leafy walking paths, seasonal blooms (including one of Florida’s largest rose gardens, typically peaking in winter), and open lawns where kids can play freely while adults decompress. This turns a garden visit into the most restorative part of the trip. Your RCI membership helps build this kind of unhurried breathing room into a balanced itinerary.
About an hour east of Orlando, the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex turns space exploration into an all-ages field trip. Families can stand beneath towering rockets, explore interactive galleries, and catch a live launch if timing aligns. Just down the coast, Port Canaveral serves as a major departure point for Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, making a seamless two-part escape easy to plan. Spend several days in Orlando using your RCI Exchange or Rental, then cap the adventure with a sailing booked through RCI’s cruise options.
Some of Orlando’s best moments cost nothing at all. With free entry, Universal CityWalk offers live music, themed dining, and bustling promenades. Disney Springs comes alive with shopping, entertainment, and kid-pleasing bites with no park ticket required, offering a budget-friendly taste of Disney magic. Downtown Orlando’s Lake Eola Park charms with swan boat rentals, a playground, and skyline views that turn an afternoon stroll into a memorable mini adventure.
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Grove Resort & Water Park
Perfect for families, the Grove Resort & Water Park blends home comforts and amenities, with fully equipped kitchens, full-size washers and dryers, and spacious living and dining areas in each suite. Guests have access to the Surfari Water Park, a full-service restaurant, pool and bar, a fire pit, and more.
If you’re looking to kick back and relax, Branson has plenty of scenic opportunities. Head to Table Rock Lake, where you can cruise the placid waters on a rental boat. On land, stake out a spot on the shore to enjoy the sun or cast a line. The stunning nature of the Ozarks is on full display during an excursion with the Branson Scenic Railway. You’ll wind through tunnels, over trestles, and through dense foliage from the comfort of a vintage passenger train. For the ultimate self-care day, book a massage, facial, or other treatment at Spa O2, a local day spa that’s been part of the community for more than 10 years.
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One destination, many facets. Discover Branson's gems this summer.
Branson Scenic Railway
Table Rock Lake
Aquarium at the boardwalk
Silver Dollar City's Showboat
“Dinner and a show” gets a new meaning on Silver Dollar City's Showboat. Your crew can enjoy live performances of beloved classics and contemporary hits while eating a delicious three-course meal aboard the paddle wheel riverboat — measuring 278 feet long and weighing 2.5 million pounds. For another family-friendly activity, head to Aquarium at the Boardwalk, where you can marvel at bioluminescent jellyfish, pet stingrays and sharks, and explore a shipwreck. If your family loves a puzzle, put your solving skills to the test at Bigfoot Escape Rooms. There are options for people of all ages and skill levels — beginners can help Benny the Bigfoot escape unspotted, for instance — and you can expect vivid storytelling, playful challenges, and lots of fun.
For stress-free travel planning, check out RCI’s Travel Packages. RCI will design personalized trips and take care of all the details so you can relax.
Dolly Parton's Stampede
Silver Dollar City
Get your adrenaline pumping at Silver Dollar City, an 1880s-themed amusement park with thrilling roller coasters, exciting water rides, and an array of craftsmen demonstrating their trades. More electrifying entertainment awaits at Dolly Parton’s Stampede. Trick riders and acrobats perform daring stunts on horseback while you enjoy a four-course family feast and live musical performances. And for an experience you won’t soon forget, soar above the Ozarks on a zipline. Wolfe Mountain offers several different zipline rides, including the exhilarating Blue Streak. Riders soar 150 feet above the ground for nearly a quarter mile and finish with a freefall drop from the park’s highest platform.
Wolfe Mountain
itinerary
Ease into the day at Farm, a country-chic spot where a leafy patio and a Provençal-inspired menu nod to the French countryside. Seasonal dishes rotate every two to three weeks, but expect delicate crêpes, brioche French toast, and well-executed omelets. From there, it’s a short walk to the Palm Springs Art Museum, home to modern and contemporary works, including sculptures, paintings, and mixed media. Outside, one block east, the 26-foot-tall Forever Marilyn statue is a towering tribute to an iconic Hollywood movie scene. Continue to the Palm Springs Walk of the Stars, where more than 480 embedded granite stars honor such notables as Elizabeth Taylor and Wayne Newton.
Lunch at Clandestino offers a modern, polished take on Mexican cuisine, like short rib empanadas, ceviches, and coconut shrimp tacos, which pair nicely with a refreshing margarita flight. Afterward, stroll north toward the Uptown Design District, where midcentury buildings house more than 50 boutiques, galleries, and vintage shops, including Trina Turk for colorful resort wear and The Shag Store for playful art that reflects the retro-glamour of Palm Springs. Pick up a map in the visitor center for a self-guided peek at the city’s architectural landmarks, including Elvis' Honeymoon Hideaway and Frank Sinatra’s Twin Palms estate with its piano-shaped pool.
MORNING
AFTERNOON
Palm Springs Art Museum
Within the historic El Paseo building, Truss & Twine cocktail bar dials up the drama. The menu traces American cocktails from early classics, like the gimlet and Old Fashioned, to today’s modern mixology. Linger over small plates, such as a Wagyu beef hot dog and potato nachos. For dinner, head to Birba, where a tree-filled patio, firepits, and a wood-fired oven set the vibe. Seasonal farm-sourced dishes include ricotta-stuffed squash blossoms and the Birba pizza with prosciutto, honey, and chili oil. They also have a deep wine list and zero-proof drink options.
Evening
Palm Springs, California blends midcentury modernism, desert landscapes, and playful poolside glamour. Over three days, this itinerary moves from art and architecture to desert trails, tumbling waterfalls, and spiky Joshua trees, offering a sun-soaked, design-forward escape shaped by style and nature.
Joshua Tree National Park
At the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, rotating tram cars ascend 8,500 feet up the cliffs of Chino Canyon in about 10 minutes. Time your ride for sunset, when the valley is aglow with ambers and golds. At the top, stretch your legs on the easy 0.75-mile Long Valley Discovery Trail, then settle in for dinner at Peaks. The chef-driven menu features dishes like pan-seared salmon, rack of lamb, and wild mushroom ravioli. Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure everyone can enjoy panoramas across the Coachella Valley. Plan ahead with advance dinner reservations and prepurchased tram tickets.
Joshua Tree Saloon, a laid-back desert stop known for burgers, tacos, and cold drinks, is a prime place to refuel. Next door, step into the World Famous Crochet Museum, a tiny, lime green painted space — a former photo processing booth — packed with crocheted creatures like poodles, kangaroos, and bears. For souvenirs of all kinds, including magnets, T-shirts, ceramics, and puzzles, stop in Coyote Corner. From there, it’s a 10-minute drive to Noah Purifoy Outdoor Desert Art Museum to wander the open desert with large-scale upcycled artworks with names like 65 Aluminum Trays and Everything and the Kitchen Sink.
Breakfast at Elmer’s restaurant, a longtime favorite known for fluffy German-style pancakes, stuffed hash browns, and cinnamon roll pancakes, is a powerful motivator to rise early and beat the desert heat. From there, it’s under an hour drive to Joshua Tree National Park. At the visitor center, get oriented, pick up maps, and fill water bottles. (There are no services inside the park.) Start your exploration with a short hike to Arch Rock and Heart Rock granite formations, then continue on to Skull Rock for an easy loop through boulders and desert washes, passing the park’s spiky, distinctive Joshua trees along the way.
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Moorten Botanical Garden
Start the day at Tahquitz Canyon, where a 2-mile loop winds through a wildflower-lined oasis of boulders and a stream that leads to 60-foot-tall Tahquitz Falls. Located on Agua Caliente tribal land, the canyon is awash with natural beauty. The visitor center has exhibits, cultural artifacts, and a short film. Go at your own pace or join a ranger-led hike. Afterward, head to L’Atelier Café for breakfast. Flaky pastries, such as almond croissants and pain au chocolat, pair well with lattes and freshly squeezed orange juice. A verdant oasis awaits at Moorten Botanical Garden, where more than 3,000 varieties of desert plants from around the world are arranged by geographic habitats along a nature trail. Wander the paths, then step inside the Cactarium to see rare succulents and exotic cacti up close. If time allows, make one final stop at the Architecture and Design Center for a dose of 1960s desert modernism.
Morning/Afternoon
Located minutes from Palm Springs' popular attractions, visitors can relax and unwind at an outdoor pool, hot tub, gazebo, and sun deck. The resort is only three blocks from the nearest golf course, and tennis buffs will find courts just a mile away.
Casitas del Monte
Discover a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere minutes from downtown Palm Springs, the Cabazon Shopping Outlets, and downtown Palm Desert. The property includes two swimming pools, a hot tub, and live entertainment and dancing each night.
Club Trinidad
The Desert Isle of Palm Springs provides the perfect resort setting to enjoy desert beauty and the area's famous nightlife. Joshua Tree National Park is just 20 miles from the resort, and specialty shops, museums, art festivals, designer fashion shows, and charity events further enhance the Palm Springs vacation scene.
Desert Isle of Palm Springs
Situated in the mountain foothills, this serene resort is perfect for visitors seeking retro and relaxed accommodations. On-site activities include a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, table tennis, cruiser bicycles, and grills. Hiking, jeep tours, shopping, gambling, dining, and museums are less than 10 minutes from the resort.
Desert Vacation Villas
How can RCI help me plan short stays or weekend getaways without feeling rushed?
It’s never been easier to plan a quick escape with RCI. Members can now book discounted hotel stays almost anywhere — perfect for shorter trips. You can use your Points or Trading Power for reduced rates, and Platinum members can unlock even deeper savings. Whether it’s a spontaneous weekend getaway or a few nights to recharge, we make it simple to travel on your schedule.
Getting answers about your benefits is easy: just ask! Arm yourself with advice from RCI’s expert Travel Guides so you can travel smoothly — and memorably.
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— April Bower (24 years with RCI), RCI TRAVEL GUIDE
— Tina Clayton (2 years with RCI), RCI TRAVEL GUIDE
Orlando is a fantastic choice for a family getaway, especially during the holidays — but it’s also one of the most in-demand destinations. The best way to secure great options during this time of the year is to plan early, ideally 9–12 months in advance. If there’s not a resort available the day you start your search, we can set up an Ongoing Search and do the work for you. Our Travel Guides are experts at finding accommodations that fit your group and budget, so you can just focus on making memories — whether it’s a holiday trip with the kids or a special celebration with family.
How can I plan a family-friendly Orlando trip during the holidays while keeping it affordable and stress-free?
— Jason Hendrixson (8 years with RCI), RCI TRAVEL GUIDE
RCI gives you multiple ways to plan your dream trip. Whether it’s a peaceful stay closer to home or a bucket-list experience. Many destinations offer great Exchange options, and in areas with high demand, we can explore affordable rental alternatives. For added peace of mind, I always recommend adding Trading Power or Points Protection, which helps safeguard your investment and gives you flexibility if your plans change along the way.
How can RCI help me plan bigger trips while keeping flexibility if plans change?
With the year racing by, savvy travelers are looking ahead to 2027. These amenity-rich resorts in Las Vegas and Orlando offer cross-generational appeal in top-tier destinations.
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The newly launched RCI Getaway Guide is an inspirational, evergreen source of destination inspiration for every RCI vacation possibility. This coffee-table-worthy keepsake is designed to spark conversation, be shared with family and friends, and be revisited time and again as you dream, plan, and build your travel bucket list.
Meet the New RCI Getaway Guide
For those wishing to be near, but not on, the Strip, this resort is a slam dunk. Families can spread out and relax in apartment-like suites. Accommodating up to six people, there are multibedroom layouts, separate living spaces, two baths, and full kitchens. Enjoy the fresh air from your private balcony and the pocket-saving ease of free parking. Slather on sunscreen and head to the expansive pool complex with four thrilling water slides, water features, hot tubs, and lounge areas. A Mayan pyramid with a plunging waterfall is the centerpiece, and the poolside cafe brings bites and drinks to you. When you’ve had enough sun, escape to the spa for a pampering treatment with a hot stone massage upgrade — or fit in a workout at the fitness center. All-ages fun awaits in the activity area with video games, foosball, table tennis, and pool. Caribe Lounge Restaurant anchors the property with daily happy-hour specials and crowd-pleasing fare like a bacon cheeseburger. Or take advantage of the guest grills and whip up your own feast. Just 15 minutes from the Las Vegas Strip, the resort strikes the right chord for those wanting a peaceful oasis plus access to attractions. Snap photos of the classic "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign nearby, and experience the dramatic Fountains of Bellagio and the Bellagio Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Essential for any Vegas visit is a stop at the new Sphere, an unparalleled entertainment venue with a 16K wraparound screen. Take in Caesars Palace, The Cosmopolitan, and The Venetian Resort with its scenic Grand Canal with gondolas. Get a blast of the past in vintage-era Vegas. Downtown, the Fremont Street Experience is a pedestrian-only district with neon lights, live music, shops, and bars beneath a dazzling LED canopy.
Revel in nature’s majesty at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area with otherworldly red sandstone formations. Hike, climb, or drive the scenic loop to absorb the wonders.
Wellness S&C welcomes you to experience energy-boosting cold therapy sessions. Visit the infrared sauna for improved sleep, reduced stress, and detoxification.
Unleash the healing powers of Mother Nature with a gardening class at Springs Preserve or a stroll around their Botanical Garden with Mojave Desert plants.
Escape for a long, unhurried stroll at sunset at Kissimmee Lakefront Park. Don’t miss the pretty lighthouse or fishing pier.
Kayak on the serene waters of Shingle Creek Regional Park, an urban aquatic sanctuary. At the source of the Everglades in the Kissimmee area, experience nature’s mood-elevating therapy.
Practice self-care at C3 Wellness Spa - Cypress, a holistic wellness center. Book a Swedish treatment, or bring your partner in for a couples’ massage.
Globally known as the home of theme parks, Orlando invites you to step just outside the park footprint for some R&R at this resort. Seven swimming pools and seven hot tubs promise endless fun in the sun. Scoring points with the kids, there are two children’s pools and splash pads — with water buckets and misting stations. Play and learning merge with face painting, dance lessons, and an arcade room. Burn calories on the basketball court or try some pickleball. Cornhole, horseshoes, and an outdoor firepit make creating lasting memories effortless. The property also has a web of quiet nature trails where exotic birds and turtles can be spotted. The homey resort invites visitors to unpack and stay awhile — book one- to two-bedroom suites outfitted with kitchens or kitchenettes. While the property doesn’t have a dedicated restaurant, a local vendor serves light bites by the pool, and outdoor grills stand ready for a family burger night. Free shuttle services connect you to nearby restaurants and grocery stores, plus legendary theme parks like Walt Disney World, SeaWorld Orlando, and Universal Orlando Resort. Golfers are also spoiled for choice: Arnold Palmer's Bay Hill Club & Lodge is Arnold Palmer’s home course and hosts the Arnold Palmer Invitational, and Reunion Resort & Golf Club courses boast designs by the greats: Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, and Tom Watson. About an hour’s drive from Orlando in Merritt Island, the Kennedy Space Center offers unforgettable glimpses of rockets and launch sites. At Planet Play, a space-themed playground, kids can scamper through wormholes. Switch gears and escape for a day of shopping and cafe-hopping along St. George Street in historic St. Augustine, a walkable coastal town established in 1565. With Colonial Spanish architecture and narrow, brick streets, America’s oldest continuously occupied settlement of European and African-American origin is a bucket-list destination.
Wellness
Located just minutes from Orlando's most popular attractions, this resort features spacious one- and two-bedroom suite-style accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, heated swimming pools, and hot tubs. The resort also offers complimentary shuttle services to Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs, Universal Studios Florida, Universal Epic Universe, and SeaWorld Orlando.
Vacation Village at Parkway
Each suite includes a full-size kitchen, spacious living room, and separate dining area to retreat to after full days of family fun. A towering Mayan pyramid with a cascading waterfall, four enormous water slides, a grand swimming pool, and a poolside café are perfect for all ages, while a full range of spa services offers the ideal escape.
Cancun Las Vegas, a Hilton Vacation Club
