Going on vacation in today’s economical crisis has become nearly impossible for many Americans. The usual vacation spots of Hawaii, Florida and even California have become too pricey for those looking to vacation comfortably.
Families all around the nation have resorted to taking “staycations”. This new phenomena occurs when a family does not leave their home for vacation.
Sometimes these “staycations” consist of the family participating in local activities or attending local attractions. Families have even decided to take time off of work to stay home, relax, eat good food and enjoy one another’s company.
While “staycations” are the perfect vacationing fix for some families, others are determined to get out of their homes and experience something new. With the exotic destinations still being too pricey, many families have found new locations to enjoy their vacation.
While many of the new vacationing hotspots may not be nationally acclaimed, attract throngs of tourists or even have a history for being a vacation spot families are finding these vacationing gems to be exactly what they need. From snow to sunshine, from desserts to lakes the United States offer a wide variety of vacationing spots.
Midway Utah has become a vacation spot for many families in the past few years. The city is only a half hour southeast of Salt Lake City.
Being so close to a major metropolitan area gives visitors to Midway the chance for a very diverse vacation. Having a population of less than five thousand people, Midway is quiet enough to provide a break from the hustle and bustle of the world.
Midway has a very interesting history and understanding the history of the city helps visitors appreciate the area. The area was first inhabited by Anglo-Americans in the 1820′s.
The men that first ventured into what used to be known as upper Provo, where men in the fur-trapping business. The particular brigade that first took note of the area was run by Etienne Provost.
Settlers did not arrive in the area until 1858. A wagon road that had recently been completed through Provo Canyon was the tool that allowed the settlers to venture into what would become Midway.
A small community, Mound City, was established with the first wave of settlers. The settlement derived its name from the many nearby limestone formations.
Brigham Young was the territorial governor and has Indian hostilities grew he asked the settlers to build forts for protection between Mound City and an up and coming settlement in the vicinity. A fort was built between the two cities, and it became a Midway point.
The up and coming settlement near Mound City took in a large number of Swiss immigrants in the 1860′s and 70s. Descendants of these Swiss families are still living in Midway Utah.
Midway’s industry was based on livestock and farming and was doing very well. The town began to grow very quickly and the need for building materials manifest itself.
The early 1850′s were the perfect time for Henry T. Coleman, John Watkins and Moroni Blood to start their own sawmill. This sawmill provided Midway with the ability to produce the necessary buildings.
The town has been thriving since the 19th century, and modern developments have made the town accessible and visitor friendly. The local hot springs are warm year round and have been used by locals since the 1880′s.
Midway has a very strong Swiss heritage. Every year Midway puts on a Swiss Days festival.
This festival started in 1947 and is put on by the Midway Boosters Club. The Midway booster club was formed in the early 1900′s and is still functioning.
The center of the Swiss Days celebration is the historic Town Hall, which has recently remodeled. Bringing together a taste of history and small town comradery, the festival attracts thousands of people every year.
Many choose to vacation in Midway when Swiss Days is not taking place, so that they are able to experience the ambiance of a small quiet town in its everyday activities. Being in a small town can make people from more metropolitan areas stir crazy.
If, while choosing a vacationing spot, it is important to be within walking distance of major shopping and food venues Midway is not the spot to vacation. Although equipped with dining and shopping options, Midway’s choices are limited.
Finding vacationing spots that are off the beaten path in the vacationing world has proven to be a very rewarding experience for many travelers. If you are looking to vacation on a budget finding a city that fits your personality in the United States is possible and plausible.
Terry Daniels is a former travel agent and has written hundreds of articles relating to tourism and real estate. He recommends (http://www.fractionalluxurylodging.com) for your interest in Midway homes.
|
|