GET OUTTA HERE: Mesa Verde deals

Mesa Verde deals

In honor of the National Park Service's Fee-Free Weekends, Mesa Verde Co., the National Park Service concessionaire in Mesa Verde National Park, is also offering special discounts to encourage Americans seeking affordable vacations to visit the park this summer.

Additionally, with Ken Burns' highly anticipated PBS documentary, "The National Parks: America's Best Idea," set to premiere this September, there is no better time to pay tribute to and enjoy America's greatest treasures in the National Park System.

During the weekends of July 18-19 and Aug. 15-16, in addition to receiving free entrance, guests of Mesa Verde National Park will receive a free children's souvenir water bottle with a retail purchase of $35 or more. With the purchase of two adult ranger-guided bus tours, guests will receive a child's ticket free. To make a reservation, call 1-866-292-8295, or visit visitmesaverde.com.

The first word that comes to your mind is "stunning." And that's just the moment you enter Mesa Verde National Park. As you wind your way up to 8,500 feet, stopping to contemplate views that span over a hundred miles, you'll begin to realize this isn't a place you can do in a day. Explore the ancient cliff dwelling and learn more about Colorado's unique history.

Learn all about film

Care to express your soul on film? Treat yourself to an unforgettable creative experience by attending the La Veta School of the Arts' filmmaking workshop July 13-17, with Ken Schneider, well-known producer, editor and sound recordist for PatchWorks' films.

This fun, five-day class will introduce and demonstrate the technical foundations of film and video production. You'll learn the differences between digital and analog media.

Camera work, editing and aesthetics will be demonstrated by creating a class film to be viewed by the public after the class is concluded.

Cost for the workshop is $375, and the workshop will be held at the La Veta School of the Arts, across from the town park on Ryus Avenue. For information or to register, call 1-719-742-3421, e-mail lvartschool@yahoo.com or check the Web site, thelvsa.org.

In your spare time, take in the sights and culture of La Veta and surrounding areas. A listing of places to stay will be sent upon request when you register for classes. This list will include local bed-and-breakfasts, hotels, inns and some local housing at reasonable rates.

Other information can be obtained from the La Veta Chamber of Commerce, lavetacucharachamber.com.