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The weather is warming up, and Wyoming is an exceptional place to enjoy spring. Filled with blooming wildflowers and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, you're going to want to get out there before summer kicks in. Here are five terrific Casper area parks where you can enjoy springtime with the family or your four-legged friends. 1. Crossroads Adventure Playground Located at 1081 N. Poplar, Crossroads Adventure Playground is the ideal destination for active families. There's nothing like it in the city. This inviting playground touts a tree fort, slides, swings, bridges, bouncy toys, and more. For parents, a portion of the play area is fully enclosed, so that no one can toddle off. more Located right near Platte River Parkway Trail, load up the kids in a stroller or wagon and take a family nature walk. Why not meander over to Mike Lansing Field, home of the Casper Ghosts baseball team and catch a game? If you can dream it, you'll find it at Crossroads Adventure Playground. 2. Riverview Park Your first stop at Riverview Park, located at 1032 East L St., should be its beautiful mural. More than 45 volunteers added their creative flair to this heartwarming September 11th memorial. This park also offers a variety of fun outdoor activities like horseshoes, handball, pickleball, boating, and fishing. 3. Paradise Valley Park Grab the whole family and head out to Paradise Valley Park, located at 31 Begonia St. This park is near the Paradise Valley Country Club and features fun activities for everyone. There's a fitness course, tennis courts, and walking paths. The recently updated playground features swings, a rock climbing wall, and two zip slides. There's even a set of bongos for the musically inclined. 4. Morad Park Don't leave man's best friend behind on your next park adventure. Leash up the whole pack, and take a trip out to Morad Park, located at 2800 SW Wyoming Blvd. Dogs love a day at outside just as much as their humans do, and at Morad Park, they're allowed to run free. The park is in a preserved natural area bordered by the North Platte River. When you arrive, look for the signs along the pathway that lead you to the leash-free zones. Remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times while exploring the trails, and pick up after your pet. The park also offers benches and picnic tables where you can rest. 5. Amoco Park Amoco Park, located at 1007 W. First St., is home to the beautiful Bart Rea Learning Circle. A glow-in-the-dark labyrinth, it's a relaxing place to visit for yoga, story time, and meditation whenever the mood strikes you. The park has a picnic area, a large parking lot, and clean, well-maintained restrooms. Summer brings the joy of a white water feature, and you can access the trail system, which is just a short walk from the Tate Pumphouse. Get outside and enjoy Wyoming's spring season. There's a park near you that's bursting with life. Image via Flickr by flowcomm

When you're looking for the perfect vehicle, the decision between a new or used car is a daunting task and typically a money issue. You may not want to spend an exorbitant amount of money on a vehicle when there are great used models that provide a much more affordable option. You may be experiencing worry, though, that you may have less life in a used vehicle and you may run the risk of spending the money saved on repairs. However, there is a best-of-both-worlds solution: a Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle. Here are four reasons to consider spending a little extra on a CPO model. Inspected by the Manufacturer What makes a CPO vehicle? The certification comes from a thorough multi-point inspection administered by the manufacturer, ensuring a vehicle that's in tip-top shape and won't spark problems the second you leave the lot. While inspections are mandatory and the vehicle must pass every point of the inspection to be certified, it's still a great idea to have the vehicle checked by a mechanic you trust.  Cars aren't cheap, and you want to be sure you're spending your money wisely. more A Lightly Used and Well-Maintained Vehicle Part of the inspection stipulations mandates low age, low mileage, and frequent maintenance. Most CPO vehicles are formerly leased vehicles, which means previous drivers most likely had to adhere to strict mileage usage and kept their cars in the best condition possible so they would not be charged extra. At most, expect around 70,000 miles on the vehicle, though most CPOs are only about 3 years old with fewer than 40,000 miles. Extended Warranty Most CPO models come with an extended warranty to give you even more peace of mind. The warranty you're guaranteed means the manufacturer covers the costs of any repairs you may need, and the manufacturer wants to ensure that you'll have no need to bring the vehicle back for repairs. Not every extended warranty is the same, though, so be sure to do your research into what your CPO vehicle's warranty will cover. Some extend the original warranty by more miles or time, while others have warranties that start after you purchase the vehicle. To make sure you're getting the most for your money, you'll want to have a warranty that's worth it. Financing Deals While CPO models may have higher costs than non-certified models, manufacturers, banks, and lenders often offer low-interest financing deals for these vehicles. This means CPO models are treated more like new cars than used ones. Uncertified vehicles often have higher interest rates that may significantly raise the total amount you're spending on the vehicle. And, as with any vehicle purchase, you still have the power of negotiation. Don't be afraid to haggle just because the vehicle you have your eye on is a Certified Pre-Owned model. Do yourself a favor and take some of the stress out of shopping for a used car. Considering a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle means considering a lightly used and well-maintained vehicle with a few extra perks that a non-certified vehicle can't offer. Along with your due diligence, the certification gives you the peace of mind you need to finally make the car of your dreams a reality. Image via Flickr by thematthewknot

Never has there been such a loyal customer base surrounding a vehicle as the one the Jeep Wrangler has amassed. If you've ever owned a Wrangler, or know someone who owns one, you surely know how much he or she loves it. What makes the Wrangler such a hot commodity? Things like its impressive safety features, versatility, uniqueness, and ability to remain unmatched by competitors have enabled the Jeep Wrangler to rise to its significant consumer following. 1. A Fun Ride Although it's technically not a crucial reason to buy one, the Jeep Wrangler is a fun vehicle to drive and ride in. You can take the top off and enjoy the sun on your skin and the wind through your hair, or you can pop off the doors and fold down the windshield for a next-level off-road experience. more The Wrangler can make it through any type of environment, from sand to mud to snow. Let the four-wheel drive system and horsepower work for you as it takes you anywhere you desire to go. Jeep also boasts more than a dozen special editions of the Wrangler, including varieties at each trim level for even more versatility. 2. Safety and Security The Wrangler needs to be able to perform in any environment, so it also needs to be able to protect its riders in any environment, no matter how rough and tough it may get. The Wrangler protects its underbody with a durable skid plate, and it protects the driver and passengers with its high-quality steel cage. In addition to being a well-made and durable vehicle, the Wrangler also comes with the state-of-the-art safety technologies we expect in our modern-day cars. Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection, Hill Start Assist, Parkview Rear Back-Up Camera, and Trailer Sway Control are a few protections the Wrangler can offer. 3.  Consistency and Resale Value The Jeep Wrangler has been around for 78 years, and this popular vehicle shows no signs of stopping. The popularity of the Wrangler has to do with a few factors. While Jeep is constantly innovating and updating the Wrangler, it hasn't changed much visually. Jeep seems to focus more on perfecting the existing Wrangler model rather than reinventing it, and sales seem to reflect the success of that decision. Since 1941, the Wrangler has also maintained a fair and reasonable price point. Not only is it an affordable vehicle, but the Wrangler also has an exceptional resale value, so when you want to upgrade, you can breathe easy knowing you'll get a fair value on your trade-in. The Jeep Wrangler has had decades of success due to its value, durability, and large loyal customers. Its customer base is so enthusiastic and community-driven that fans have carried on the famous “Jeep Wave,” a friendly wave from one Jeep owner to another as they pass each other. This originated after World War II when soldiers who came home and bought Jeeps would wave at one another. With such great specs, reliability, and enthusiasm behind its brand, it's no wonder Wrangler owners can't seem to own any other vehicle. Image via Flickr by davejdoe

Winter in Casper can be a gorgeous time of year. When the first snow falls fresh and blankets your neighborhood with a layer of shimmering white, it can be absolutely magical. However, it doesn't take long for the beauty to turn on you, leaving you cold and riddled with cabin fever. You are desperate for a vacation but are saving your money, and time off, for the classic summer vacation. Compromise with your wallet by planning a staycation at one of the following hotels. 1. La Quinta Inn Casper Casper has a lot of fun to offer, and museums are one of its most abundant activities. Stay at La Quinta Inn and enjoy a good night's rest, a complimentary breakfast, and maybe a soak in the spa before enjoying a day of educational fun! You'll be practically equidistant from the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center, the Tate Geological Museum, the Werner Wildlife Museum, and the Fort Casper Museum. Take the family on a museum tour and end at the Casper Planetarium for an out-of-this-world look at the galaxy and all it has to offer. more 2. Ramada Plaza & Conference Center by Wyndham Casper Perhaps museums are a little too slow of a pace for your family. Maybe you need a little excitement during the winter lull. If that's the case, check in to Ramada Plaza by Wyndham and get ready to immerse yourself in an adventure. Race against the clock and work with your family to find clues and solve puzzles to escape a tricky situation. With three escape room locations ( Escape 307, Into the Vortex Escape Rooms, and Nearby Wind Escapes) and multiple scenario options at each location, you'll be sure to find a few challenges up your family's alley. Afterward, relax in the pool and spa area at the hotel as a reward for a job well done. 3. Travelodge by Wyndham Casper Though it may be the dead of winter, you and your family can certainly pretend it's the middle of summer by going to an indoor water park. Stay at Travelodge and trade the pool at the hotel for an entire center full of water-based fun. Enjoy Casper Family Aquatic Center's 23,500 square feet, which include water slides, lap pools, a lazy river, and hot tubs. Enjoy relaxation and feel refreshed as your kids burn off all that stored up energy. If a water park doesn't pique your interest, take the family to the roller rink and boogie the night away, or get competitive at the bowling alley. Whether you're looking for a relaxing or exciting break during the cold winter months, Casper proves you don't have to go far from home to feel like you're on vacation. Enjoy free breakfast, cable, Wi-Fi, and in most cases, indoor pools and spas before and after a day full of fun with the family. Most hotels are even pet-friendly, so even the four-legged family members can enjoy the adventure too. Don't break the bank or waste your hard-earned time-off during the dreary winter months; choose a cost-effective staycation the entire family will enjoy. Image via Flickr by sipes23

Winter may strike dread into the hearts of some, but not you! You love the brisk, chilled air and want to make the most out of the snowy season. If you've already rolled up an army of snowmen, gone sledding down the local hills, and had your fill of snowball fights, perhaps a ski trip is the next winter activity to cross off the list. Casper, Wyoming, has a good number of options for the novice or advanced skier in you. Hogadon Basin Ski Area Located on Casper Mountain, Hogadon Basin Ski Area is the closest ski destination to Casper, so you won't have to travel far for your snowy adventure. With 28 different trails, you're sure to find the perfect slope for your experience level. There is also a terrain park for those wishing to show off their skills and tricks. Hogadon Basin Ski Area offers season passes, daily tickets, group rates, and race programs. Don't know how to ski? No problem — The Hogadon Basin Snowsports School can help with lessons for all ages. If you're hungry after a day of shredding the slopes, stop by the food court in the lodge before you leave. more Snowy Range Ski Area In Laramie, nestled into the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest, Snowy Range Ski Area is a bit farther than Hogadon but well worth the trip. With 33 trails of varying difficulty, Snowy Range Ski Area certainly offers what its name suggests — range. Snowy Range offers day passes or season passes. It also offers Mountain School for those wishing to advance their knowledge or those who need to begin by learning how to put skis on. If you've been to Snowy Range in the past, you may remember the licensed child care center. Now it's a free-to-use space called Kid's Corner that's open to everyone but requires a parent or guardian to be present. Snowy Range offers a cafe, bar and grill, and coffee shop but does not offer lodging. You won't have to look too far, however, and some hotels even offer shuttles to the base. Meadowlark Ski Lodge If you're looking for a cozier, more rustic vibe, Meadowlark Ski Lodge is the place for you. Located in Ten Sleep, within the Big Horn Mountains, Meadowlark feels like a getaway without having to go very far. Wake up each morning looking out onto Meadowlark Lake at Meadowlark Lake Lodge; picturesque nature will give you the breath of fresh air you needed and allows you to escape into nature. The lodge offers a small menu of homemade foods for when you need to refuel between runs. Meadowlark Lake Lodge also offers hiking, fly fishing, and wildlife viewing and photography if you need a break from the slopes. The Ski Lodge offers 14 trails,  and while it has fewer options than the aforementioned ski areas, Meadowlark Ski Lodge's selection of runs will not disappoint. All three locations offer rentals, but Meadowlark also offers snowmobile rentals for yet another activity to add to the fun. Wyoming offers endless amounts of winter fun, and with lodges that offer other activities besides skiing, you'll be able to plan the perfect getaway catered to your family or friends. Image via Flickr by Traveloscopy

Casper has a long and storied history, spanning all the way back to prehistoric times. For interested residents and visitors, Casper's many historic sites provide exciting destinations that allow a visitor a glimpse into the past. Here are our favorite three historic sites that showcase Casper's incredible history. more Independence Rock Sitting about 50 miles southwest of Casper is a large mound of granite jutting out of the ground. This landmark was a popular spot for emigrants who were headed west during the beginning days of America. They carved their name into the granite surface, which stands a staggering 136 feet high and spans 24.81 acres. Surrounded on all sides by dramatic landscape, it's a great place to get a feel for the sacrifice and struggle made by these early settlers who made their way to their new home hundreds of miles away. Check out the many different names carved into the stone surface or just appreciate the richness of history that surrounds you at this picturesque historic site. Independence Rock is located on Highway 220. Thanks to its enormous size, it's hard to miss. Bishop House The M.L. Bishop House museum was built in 1907 and is on the National Registry of Historic Places. The Bishop family were integral to the development and success of Casper. They established themselves in Casper in the 1890s after M.L. Bishop was appointed postmaster to the burgeoning community. He was also the founder of one of the town's first religious communities, earning him an even more prominent role in Casper history. Bishop House remains almost exactly the same as it was when it was constructed and is one of the best ways to step back in time and see how this influential family lived. The Bishops lived in the home for more than 100 years, and it is the only house museum in Casper. The Bishop House museum is located at 818 E 2nd St. and is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. It's operated by the Cadoma Foundation. Tate Museum The Tate Museum is one of only a handful of geology and paleontology museums in Wyoming and, as such, is a must-visit for visitors wanting to know more about the ancient past. Wyoming played an important role in the Earth's past, and the museum shows the richness of life that inhabited the area thousands of years ago. Favorite exhibits at the Tate Museum include Dee the Mammoth, a complete mammoth skeleton dated at over 11,600 years old. There are also over 3,000 fossils and minerals on display. Lectures are held regularly, and the museum staff is very knowledgeable and happy to answer any questions! The Tate Museum is located at 125 College Dr. on the grounds of Casper College; look for the life-size bronze T. Rex outside to find it. There are many other historic sites in Casper to explore, but these three serve as some of the best introductions to the rich and varied history of the area. https://www.flickr.com/photos/igboo/1602458243/sizes/l Image via Flickr by .Larry Page

Combining safety features that will impress parents with entertainment tech that kids will love, the Dodge Caravan is a terrific family car. The best part? It all comes at an affordable price that won't break your budget. Here, we've listed four of the top reasons you should pile your family into the Dodge Grand Caravan today. more A Suite of Safety Features We know safety features that help keep your family safe are the most important feature of any family car. That's why the Dodge Grand Caravan brings together a suite of safety features, all built around a high-strength steel safety frame, for your peace of mind. The ParkView rear backup camera switches on automatically when the van is in reverse, providing a wide-angle camera view of the area to the vehicle's rear. All-speed traction control automatically applies brake pressure to wheels if they slip into a spin and can reduce engine power, helping maintain the vehicle's stability. Combining the all-speed traction and electronic anti-lock brake systems, electronic stability control monitors the van's motion and steering input to adjust engine throttle or apply brakes when necessary. To help keep your most precious cargo safe, the LATCH system makes it easy to install LATCH-compatible child seats and restraints, while child protection door locks help prevent the sliding doors from being opened by small, curious hands. The Latest in Entertainment Tech Parents will also love the hours of fun provided by the Dodge Grand Caravan's entertainment systems that will keep kids occupied and happy. The Caravan comes with three different levels of interactivity, so you can be sure to customize to get exactly the systems you want. Wireless headphones, included with the available single DVD entertainment system, ensure that passengers don't need to fight over what to listen to next. The USB port also allows you to connect nearly any music player directly. Plus, the Uconnect voice command and hands-free calling system keep the driver firmly in control, with your hands on the wheel. Robust Yet Efficient Performance The Grand Caravan's 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine provides surprising power, getting a robust 283 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Dual variable valve timing adjusts the exhaust valve and intake timing, leading to more efficient use of fuel. The Grand Caravan gets up to 25 miles per gallon on the highway, meaning you'll have to stop less often to fill up on gas. Personalized Appearance Packages Available appearance packages make the Dodge Grand Caravan your own. The Blacktop Package, which is standard on the SE Plus trim level and available on SXT, adds a sporty look to the exterior and interior, including black headlamp bezels and a gloss black crosshair front grille. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, all-black interior accents with silver accent stitching, and 17-inch polished aluminum wheels with gloss black pockets add a touch of luxury. To learn more about why the Dodge Grand Caravan makes a great family car, head over to Fremont Motor Casper today and give it a test drive. Bring your whole family along for the ride! Image via Dodge.com

Winters in Casper are super chilly, with temperatures dipping below freezing. However, that doesn't mean there aren't plenty of affordable family outings to take advantage of. Here are four of our favorite winter fun destinations in and around Casper. more Casper Mountain Trails Center Casper Mountain Trails Center is one of the best places to go cross-country skiing. With over 26 miles of maintained trails, you can explore the stunning landscape of Casper Mountain. Once darkness falls, popular portions of the trail are lighted for a unique night-time skiing experience. There are cross-country trails available for all levels, from experienced to first-time skiers. If you and your family want to be a little more adventurous, 30 miles of backwood and snowshoe trails wind their way through the park. All equipment can be rented at the center if you don't have your own. The center is located on Micro Rd. Casper Ice Arena Take your winter fun indoors at the Casper Ice Arena. This huge rink is a great place to get some exercise when the temperature plummets. Take the little ones for skating lessons or enjoy skating with the whole family. Hockey teams are also based out of the arena, which is a great opportunity if you have kids interested in taking up the sport! Annual passes are available as well as individual day admission. On-site skate rentals are affordable for families without their own skates. Casper Ice Arena is located at 1801 E 4th St. Hogadon Basin Ski Area Snow comes early to Casper and residents benefit from the less-packed ski slopes. Hogadon Basin Ski Area is not only stunningly beautiful but also offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. The Hogadon Basin Snowsports School is a great way for your kids to learn how to navigate the slopes and be taught by seasoned professionals. There are 27 different trails available, covering a variety of difficulty levels. A ski lift makes access to all of them a breeze. The lodge at the Hogadon Basin Ski Area offers equipment rentals. Be sure to check and make sure the trails you want are open: some close down after inclement weather to ensure trail safety. The resort is located at 2500 W. Hogadon Rd. Casper Family Aquatic Center It may be freezing outside, but the Casper Family Aquatic Center keeps it summer all year round! Take your family to blow off some steam at this super fun water center and enjoy exciting attractions like water slides, a zero-depth entry pool, and a lazy river. A whirlpool hot tub is a perfect place to relax and warm up after a chilly day. All pools are heated and comfortable, and experienced lifeguards are on duty during open hours. The Casper Family Aquatic Center is over 23,500 square feet with plenty of activities for all ages. It's located at 1801 E 4th St. Water-based exercise classes are also available, along with swimming lessons for the little ones. They're open seven days a week and different passes and admission rates are available. These are just a few of the many family winter activities offered in Casper. https://www.flickr.com/photos/bensonkua/6625045137/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Benson Kua

Winter driving can be difficult, but Jeep Grand Cherokees are well equipped to handle these challenges with a rugged design and helpful technology. Here's how the Jeep Grand Cherokee is perfectly designed to tackle winter driving. more Off-Road Prowess Jeep has always been known for their outdoorsy vehicles, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee carries on that tradition, particularly with the Trailhawk trim. Winter driving is tricky, and features like four-wheel drive with low-range gearing, off-road tires, and adjustable air-suspension make dealing with frigid weather, slick surfaces, and road debris easier. In addition, the Trailhawk trim comes with an electronic rear differential that is matched with an advanced terrain-selectable traction control system, which allows for additional control when driving in difficult weather or on unusual terrains. Also available is the Quadra-Lift Suspension System, which can give you the clearance you need to get over that snowbank. Interior Technology There are a ton of interior technology options for the Jeep Grand Cherokee that are awesome for winter driving. Available across multiple trims, heated front seats are matched with a heated steering wheel, perfect for chilly winter days. Remote start allows you to get the car going before you get in so that it's heated and comfortable when you get on your way. An infotainment center is also included in the center of the dash and offers easy access to many of the different technology options. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are included on every trim level, which can help reduce distraction during difficult weather conditions. Safety Safety is imperative during winter driving. Vision can often be difficult, especially when dealing with snow or sleet. Active safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning can help keep you and your passengers safe even when it's difficult to see. There is also forward collision warning, which uses sensors to warn drivers when an impending collision is possible, an excellent feature for low visibility. Traction control also provides an additional safety edge: by adjusting the required traction, the Jeep Grand Cherokee can rise to the challenge of different terrains using individualized adjustments. Power and Handling When winter sets in, you need a powerful vehicle to handle the frigid temperatures and unpredictable road conditions. The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a variety of different engines available. The base engine is a 3.6-liter V-6 engine, pumping out 295 horsepower. Other options include a 5.7-liter V-8 with 360 horsepower, a 6.4-liter V-8 with 475 horsepower, and finally the supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 Trackhawk with 707 horsepower. Outside of the power, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers dynamic handling with smooth, responsive steering, powerful acceleration, and reliable braking to meet the challenges of winter roads. The vehicle is well grounded to handle sharp turns and inclines. When it comes to winter driving, having a reliable, rugged vehicle can make all the difference. It's important to always have an emergency plan in place when driving in winter weather, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee can take a lot of stress out of tackling winter driving. https://www.flickr.com/photos/albargan/11358037354/sizes/l Image via Flickr by AlBargan

The holidays are almost here, and that means long road trips for many of us. If you're about to hit the highway to visit your loved ones, you'll be more comfortable in a vehicle with enough room for everyone. Here are a few of our favorites. more 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan Stretch out in this roomy minivan without compromising on room for your luggage ― the 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan gives you best-in-class storage capacity. Seats can be folded down for more cargo room or reclined for the ultimate in passenger comfort. If you've got kids in the back seat, make sure to equip the Grand Caravan with an available DVD entertainment system to keep them occupied during your road trip. Best of all, the new Grand Caravan reaches some impressive performance benchmarks. The minivan is powered by a 3.6-liter, 283-horsepower Pentastar V-6 engine that makes accelerating and changing lanes a breeze even on the busiest highway. 2019 Chrysler Pacifica Families are guaranteed to enjoy the style and utility of the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica. The minivan comes with seats that can be folded into a variety of configurations, and there's plenty of cargo space for everyone to bring along their luggage. The Pacifica also effortlessly outclasses many other minivans in the style department with its aerodynamic, aesthetically appealing design. Its performance standards are nothing to sneeze at, either ― the Pacifica is powered by a 287-horsepower V-6 engine. If you really want to save on fuel costs, the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica is even available as a hybrid model. 2019 Jeep Compass Take a look at the 2019 Jeep Compass to meet all of your family's needs. From its modern, athletic exterior to its feature-packed cabin, there's a lot to love about this SUV. The new Compass has nine different wheel designs, from 19-inch polished aluminum to 16-inch black steel, to keep you rolling along on those long road trips. The Compass also uses a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine with MultiAir 2 technology, enabling greater efficiency and performance. This translates to better gas mileage for you, which you'll appreciate when you're hauling the whole family across the state to visit relatives. Finally, the SUV's weather-proof features make it ideal for a winter road trip. The 2019 Jeep Compass has separate driving modes for snow, sand, mud, and rock. 2019 Dodge Durango Get ready for an SUV with performance capabilities that are only matched by its usefulness and utility. The 2019 Dodge Durango is the most powerful SUV in its class, making it ideal for drivers who want to flex the power of a 6.4-liter V-8 engine. The Durango can also tow up to 8,700 pounds, making it a great choice for road-trippers who need to bring along a trailer. Riding in the new Durango will also be supremely comfortable for the rest of your family, thanks to its available leather-trimmed interior appointments and technology options. These four vehicles are great choices to get to your upcoming holiday festivities, and they're all in stock at Fremont Motors. Stop by soon to take one of these family-friendly options for a spin. Image via Chrysler.com

Casper is the second-largest city in Wyoming, but it's our first choice when it comes to celebrating Christmas. We've put together this short guide to some of the holiday activities in our area so you don't miss your chance to enjoy this season more than ever. more Do Some Holiday Shopping Bundle up and head downtown during the months of November and December to take advantage of the city's best seasonal retail deals. Major chains like Macy's, Best Buy, Target, Kohl's, and Dick's Sporting Goods will help you with all of your holiday gift staples, but don't stop there. Local specialty stores will give you the chance to purchase unique gifts ― visit stores like Floral Rhino and Wind City Books to find hidden treasures. For the ultimate holiday shopping experience, go inside Sierra West's dedicated Christmas store. There are dozens of Christmas-themed rooms decorated with trees, ornaments, and more. Check Out Christmas in Wyoming Enjoy the best display of Christmas lights in Casper on the west side of the city. The show takes place at a single residential home, but it's achieved statewide fame over the past few years. Visit in your car to get an extra bonus ― tune your car radio to 98.1, and the lights will be synced to the music for a spectacular audiovisual feast. The display uses LED lights to keep electricity costs low, and the family accepts donations to help fund charity organizations. Visit the event's website to see the 2018 schedule and to view videos of the show in action. Attend The Royal Holiday Ball Visit the Nicolaysen Art Museum (known locally as “The Nic”) on Dec. 1 to participate in the Royal Holiday Ball. This is a children's holiday party with a princess theme that will run from 5 to 7 p.m. Scheduled events include dancing, singing, storytelling, and coloring. There will also be plenty of holiday-themed treats for adults and children alike to enjoy. Tickets cost $30 for child party goers and $5 for chaperones. The Royal Holiday Ball will be attended by multiple princesses in costumes, so make sure your child gets the chance to take a photo with all of them. Go to Holiday on the Homestead Go to the National Historic Trails Interpretive Center on Dec. 8 and be ready to get creative. Bring your family and friends so everyone can enjoy making handcrafted Christmas ornaments while listening to live music. If you're an especially talented chef, consider joining the gingerbread contest to pit your confectionery skills against the best in Casper. If you bring your kids to Holiday on the Homestead, they're sure to enjoy the temporary train exhibit — it may not be the Polar Express, but it's the next best thing. This is a daytime event that will start at 9 a.m. and end at 2:00 p.m. Casper's annual November Christmas Parade may have already come and gone, but there are still plenty of holiday-themed activities to enjoy this winter. Start with these options to kickstart your Christmas. https://www.flickr.com/photos/tabor-roeder/23412242435/sizes/l Image via Flickr by Phil Roeder

If you've got a new driver in your family, you probably have lots of concerns about what they're going to be driving. You'll want to find a car that's reliable and safe, and they'll appreciate it if you find something with style. Consider one of these possibilities. more 2019 Chrysler 300 Check out this great-looking sedan for your new driver; they're sure to appreciate the style and features that abound in the 2019 Chrysler 300. While any version of the new 300 exudes confidence and class, equipping the available S Model Appearance Package will introduce body-color fascias and signature daytime running lamps that your new driver will love. More importantly, you'll rest easy knowing that they are driving under the protection of advanced safety technologies. The Chrysler 300 comes with full-speed forward collision warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and adaptive cruise control. Ultrasonic sensors and rear cross-path detection also simplify parking. 2019 Jeep Cherokee Give your new driver the gift of versatility and the ability to traverse a variety of terrain, even in inclement weather. The 2019 Jeep Cherokee is fully equipped to handle off-road driving, and the Trailhawk trim even sports the manufacturer's coveted Trail Rated badge. As the Cherokee is slightly bigger than many new drivers' first vehicles, they'll also get the added advantage of being able to run errands for you. Safety features are no less impressive. The new Cherokee is constructed with high-strength steel to keep passengers safe in the event of a collision. It also comes with active safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and full-speed collision detection software. 2019 Chrysler Pacifica At a first glance, you might be surprised to find a minivan suggested for first-time drivers. But the 2019 Chrysler Pacifica quickly surpasses the expectations that most young people have for this class of vehicle. In addition to its striking style, the new Pacifica also comes with two available touch screens and has been awarded five stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. New drivers also tend to appreciate the cutting edge of technology, and that's where the Pacifica Hybrid really shines. This variant model represents the first hybrid minivan ever developed, and it uses both an electric motor and gasoline engine to deliver the best possible efficiency and performance. 2019 Jeep Compass Set your new driver up with the 2019 Jeep Compass to grant them access to the best possible combination of utility and style. They'll love the SUV's two-tone glossy roof and dual-pane sunroof, and you'll appreciate the safety and security features available with every model. These include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. The 2019 Compass is also remarkably robust in just about every driving scenario, from open highways to muddy trails. The SUV even comes with windshield wiper de-icer and rain-sensing windshield wipers to keep your new driver safe this winter. You'll have a lot of comparisons to make when you're shopping for a car for your new driver. Visit Fremont Motors to take one of these four great in-stock models for a spin today. Image via Jeep.com