Bison lounge in a field in Yellowstone National Park in spring.

Via Magazine

Outsmart LifeTM
Insights and advice from AAA.

A family plants their vetetable garden.

Step-By-Step Guide to Starting a Vegetable Garden

From small containers to raised beds, transform your outdoor space into an edible oasis.

View from the terrace at Lan Su Chinese Garden in Portland.

16 Gorgeous Gardens in the West

Stopping to smell the roses is always encouraged.

Valencia peak rising from the coastline in Montana de Oro State Park, California.

Favorite Hiking Trails in the West

Ocean views, cool forests, and wildlife can be found on these treks in the West.
A mountain biker drops in on the Slickrock trail in Moab, Utah.

7 Top Mountain Biking Towns in the West

These destinations offer quick access, trails for all levels, and après-bike food and entertainment.
Morning view of the cactus and succulent gardens looking towards Magma Ridge at Boyce Thompson Arboretum.

Spend a Weekend in 3 Arizona Mountain Towns

Discover the easygoing charm of the onetime mining burgs of Globe, Superior, and Miami, Arizona.
Lupines blooming on Darwin Bench in Kings Canyon National Park, California.

7 Affordable Spring Break Spots in the West

From family adventures to quiet retreats, here's where to escape on a budget.
grapes grow on Youngberg Hill

Gourmet Weekend in McMinnville, Oregon

This Willamette Valley town is known for winemaking and cuisine.
AAA Members ski with views of Lake Tahoe.

Best Winter Weekend Getaways in the West

From ski towns to tropical beaches, here are the best places to play—and relax—from November to March.
A red 2023 Kia EV6 GT on a closed track.

Is a Plug-In Hybrid or an EV Right for You?

These electric cousins offer up two very different driving experiences.
Chevy Bolts outside of a Hertz car rental building.

How to Rent an EV

Know these 6 things before you rent an electric car on a trip.
A pothole reflects the sky on a winter road.

How to Avoid Pothole Damage

And what to do if you hit one.
oncoming traffic headlight trails bend along a mountain highway at dusk

Why You Need Adaptive Driving Beam Headlights

New cars may now come with this advanced headlight technology.
Bags are piled up behind an SUV to be loaded into the car before a road trip.

14 Things to do Before You Leave on a Road Trip

Follow these strategies to keep your home safe and have a smooth experience on the road.
A mother and child walk outside at Chico Hot Springs in Pray, Montana with the mountains in the background.

Road-Trip Through Paradise Valley, Montana

Take your time as you snake through the Yellowstone River’s resilient towns.
Mt. Moran overlooks a winding road in Wyoming's Teton National Park.

16 Seasonal Road Trips to Take in 2023

These drives keep the adventures going throughout the year.
the Carquinez Bridge over the Carquinez Strait in Solano County, California.

Best Stops Along I-80: From Vallejo to Davis

Between the Bay Area and Sacramento, Solano County boasts some good spots to explore.
High West Distillery in Wanship, Utah blanketed in snow.

Heber Valley, Utah Road Trip

Get your adrenaline roaring and then soak up the arts and nature on this drive through Utah’s Wasatch Range.
Sunset over a marsh at Moss Landing State Park, California.

Road Trip California's Highway 152 From Gilroy to Moss Landing

California's Highway 152 takes you through vast vineyards, towering redwoods, and coastal views.
RVs camp in Devils Garden campground in Arches National Park.

7 Best National Park Campgrounds in the West

Set up camp inside these iconic parks.
A couple stand at the center of the Grand Canyon Skywalk in Grand Canyon National Park.

Complete Guide to Grand Canyon National Park

Hike with bighorn sheep, stargaze, and cycle to jaw-dropping viewpoints at this beloved Northern Arizona wonder.
Bluethroat (male) bird singing in Nome, Alaska.

8 Best Places to Go Bird-Watching in the West

From Arizona to Hawaii, spot hundreds of species at these parks and refuges.
A woman looks a park map while planning a camping trip.

How to Get a Campsite When Everything is Booked

Follow these 5 tips to secure a spot and ensure you have the best camping experience possible.
A clean, bright, modern kitchen.

How to Get Rid of Common Household Odors

Say goodbye to unpleasant smells with these simple strategies.
picture of boxes piled up in a home for a move

Packing Tips for a Move

Not sure how to pack for a move? Experts answer top questions—and warn against big mistakes.
People wander inside SFMOMA.

6 Best Modern and Contemporary Art Museums in the West

Immerse yourself in all types of artistic mediums, from sculptures to paintings to films.
tide pools framed by iceplant in Pescadero, California

Top Things to Do in Pescadero, California

Just south of San Francisco, Pescadero offers a chance to slow down and savor local fare.
Bird-watchers sit on a tree in a forest while looking through binoculars.

A Beginner’s Guide to Bird-Watching

Embark on a birding adventure in your own backyard.
Wildflowers bloom beneath Picacho Peak in Arizona.

Where to See Wildflowers in the West

When spring arrives, wildflowers paint the West in a rainbow of colors.
A father and daughter watch tv on a computer in bed.

Should You Cut the Cord on Cable?

Here’s how to decide if switching to streaming is right for you.
A couple signs a legal document with a notary.

What is a Notary and When do You Need One?

Before you hire a notary, use these tips to find the right service and the right provider.
picture of sliced barbecue brisket

Top Barbecue Joints in the West

Savor the smoky, tender meat, and craveable sides at these favorite barbecue spots.
A cup of hot chocolate with handmade marshmallows from Dandelion Chocolate in San Francisco.

​​9 Best Hot Chocolates in the West

Warm up with a steaming cup of hot cocoa.