Aztec Ruins National Monument

Exploring this national monument takes you back through 900 years of history and legacy. Duck low to get through the low stone doors that connect more than 400 rooms, When you step into the Great Kiva, you can almost hear the drums sounding as you realize how few people are ever allowed into one of these sacred spaces.

This entire park gives you new insight into the history of the continent—especially if you tune in to the guided smartphone tour that helps you understand and relate to what you're seeing (the video at the visitor center helps, too). The basic walking trail is wheelchair-friendly, and the self-guided tour is only about a half-mile walk, so you won't wear yourself out. But it's hot out here in the desert during much of the year, so bring water to stay hydrated.

Here's a heads up—literally. When you walk through the sleeping chambers, there may be some bats overhead. Just be quiet, and they won't bother you. Great picnic areas let you relax under the trees by the Animas River (if you're lucky, you may even spot some deer swinging by for a drink). Keep your eyes open for ranger demonstrations—one of the favorites is a chance to make hot chocolate the way the Aztecs did, and to be grateful to them for figuring out how amazing chocolate was in the first place!