Red Rocks Canyon, Denver's beautiful natural amphitheater, 15 miles west of the city, is a hot destination for rock fans of both kinds. The Trading Post loop hiking trail is 1.4 miles and goes through spectacular rock formations, valleys and a natural meadow. Two 300-foot monoliths (Ship Rock and Creation Rock) provide acoustic perfection for any performance. Death Cab for Cutie is set for the end of May, with R.E.M. on the calendar for June. Give your ears — and feet — a treat: www.redrocksonline.com (check out "Visiting").

— Chris Oliver

CHICAGO

IT'S ARCHITECTURE-CRUISE SEASON IN THE WINDY CITY

No visitor to Chicago should miss the city's architecture cruise, which highlights 53 historic and architecturally significant sites including the Trump Tower, Merchandise Mart, 333 W. Wacker, the Wrigley Building, the Tribune Tower, the Sears Tower, River City, Marina City and the site of the Spire.

The cruise also meanders along the North Branch of the Chicago River to view the Chicago Tribune printing press plant; Goose Island; Kinzie Park development; Riverbend and the colorful glass River Cottages. The season opens

May 3 and runs through Nov. 23. Cruises depart from Michigan Avenue Bridge at Wacker Drive, just north of Millennium Park. Tickets: $28 weekdays and $30 weekends and holidays. 312-902-1500, www.ticketmaster.com/rivercruise (the print-at-home option allows quicker check-in at the dock). Tickets also available at the dock or at the Chicago Architecture Foundation shop at 224 S. Michigan Ave.

LAS VEGAS

DITCH THE HOTEL AND TRY A HOUSEBOAT ON LAKE MEAD

Heading to Vegas? Rent a 59-foot deluxe houseboat on Lake Mead (sleeps 10) for five days from Forever Resorts at the discounted rate of $1,195 (plus tax and $500 refundable security deposit); that's a savings of $1,600 to $2,000. The offer is good through Dec. 31 at lake destinations in Arizona, Nevada, California and

Missouri. Must book by April 30. 800-255-5561, www.foreverhouseboats.com.