3 Destinations for a Perfect Weekend Getaway BY ALEXIS CROWE

ummer is here and that means 3. Dogwood Canyon Nature it's time to start making travel Park and Big CedarLodge plans. With Little Rock in a central S Immerse in nature at this wilderness location to many bigger cities and cool resort 40 miles south of Springfield, destinations, it's easy to find a spot that's Missouri. Big Cedar Lodge offers perfect for your family. opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking These three destinations are great and more. Guests can choose from log for a long weekend away - with the cabins, cottages and hotel-style rooms in furthest one only five hours from central one of multiple lodges . Enjoy your stay at Arkansas. Big Cedar with amenities like paddle boats, kayaks, mini golf and swimming pools . 1. Hilton Anatole in Dallas 2. Cypress Lodge the Big in Once you've enjoyed all the fun at The Hilton Anatole recently launched Memphis Pyramid Big Cedar Lodge, take a short drive the Sweet Dreams Package, an American While most people are familiar with to Dogwood Canyon Nature Park for Girl Slumber Party perfect for a mother­ the Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, you hours of family fun . Dogwood Canyon daughter getaway. may be surprised to discover that there is is a 10,000-acre "wilderness paradise" Guests start their weekend at the more than a store inside those walls. that houses wildlife including bison, American Girl store in Dallas where Moms and daughters can indulge in elk and Texas longhorn cattle. Some of girls can create a doll that looks just like manicures and pedicures at The Spa at the features at the massive park are an them. Valet service to the hotel from the Big Cypress and the whole family can incredible treehouse , horseback riding, store is included and upon arriving at try archery at the indoor range . Visitors tram tours, biking trails with bikes the Hilton Anatole, guests are greeted can also stop by the massive ponds and available for rental and walking and with a welcome letter and sweet treats. aquariums to see live alligators and fish. hiking trails. The hotel lays out an American Girl robe, The Pyramid also houses a bowling Visit BigCedar.com for more slippers and doll bed for an American Girl alley and the country's tallest information on the lodge and slumber party . freestanding elevator. At the top, view the DogwoodCanyon.org for details on the Then, if you're looking for more city from a glass observation deck and nature park. activities, visitJadewaters, a massive dine at the The Lookout restaurant. leisure pool with two waterslides, a When booking, ask about the Family lazy river and more just for guests at Fun Package, which includes a room the Anatole . For more information on accommodation of choice, a $40 food the hotel and booking and beverage voucher, one hour of the Sweet Dreams bowling and a family welcome gift. Package, visit There's also the Adventures with HiltonAnatoleHotel. Winston package, which includes com/special-offers. passes to the Memphis Zoo, use of a polaroid camera and other perks . Visit Big-Cypress.com for more information.