You don’t always need a passport for a great adventure. This category focuses on accessible weekend trips and local gems, including deep dives into Hocking Hills in Ohio, Mackinac Island in Michigan, The Finger Lakes in Upstate New York, and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Perfect for travelers looking to maximize their ‘off duty’ time closer to home.
The Peak 2 Peak Gondola in Whistler, BA is a Summer Alpine Experience, complete with beautiful hikes, thrilling views and a few surprises along the way. … More Whistler Blackcomb’s Summer Alpine Experience: A Guide to the Peak 2 Peak Gondola
Saugatuck Seasonal Planning & Tips Saugatuck, Michigan is a charming lakeside gem on the shores of Lake Michigan and the Kalamazoo River. Known for its vibrant arts scene, breathtaking dunes, and welcoming small-town charm, this coastal haven is perfect for a weekend escape or a longer retreat. From sandy beaches and art galleries to historic … More Top Things to Do in Saugatuck, Michigan: Beaches, Art, Outdoor Adventures & Hidden Gems
Snow-dusted cliffs and serene trails make Hocking Hills a peaceful winter retreat. … More Winter Hiking in Hocking Hills, Ohio: A Magical Escape into Nature
Explore the “Grand Canyone of the East” with this complete guide to Letchworth State Park. Discover top trails, stunning waterfalls, and expert travel tips from a traveler who grew up in the area. … More Discover Letchworth State Park: A Guide to NY’s Natural Wonder
Calling all Shawshank Redemption fans! Discover what it’s really like to tour the Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield, Ohio, see real movie sets, and plan your visit. … More Discovering The Ohio State Reformatory: A Must-Visit for Shawshank Redemption Fans
Saugatuck, Michigan is a true hidden gem nestled along the art-filled eastern shore of Lake Michigan. Known for its vibrant arts scene, towering freshwater sand dunes, pristine beaches, and warm coastal hospitality, this charming small town offers the perfect recipe for an idyllic weekend getaway from Chicago, Detroit, or Grand Rapids. … More A Weekend Getaway to Saugatuck, Michigan: The Ultimate Coastal Escape
Caesar Creek Lake, located in southwestern Ohio, is a beautiful place to visit for a day trip. The lake, which is part of the Caesar Creek State Park, offers a variety of activities for nature lovers, including hiking, fishing, boating, and picnicking. One of the best things about Caesar Creek Lake is the stunning scenery. … More Caesar Creek Lake Ohio Day Trip
While crossing the ocean for big international adventures is always exciting, the peak of summer demands a different kind of travel strategy. I am not a fan of heat. So in the summer, my favorite way to travel is by leaning into what the cool kids are calling a “coolcation,” deliberately skipping the sweltering, crowded … More A Perfect Midweek Finger Lakes Wine Vacation
Instead of cooking at home as I usually do, my family decided, for the first time ever, to get away for the Thanksgiving weekend, spending the holiday hiking, cooking and enjoying the outdoors. We chose the Red River Gorge area in Kentucky, which is just over a 2-hour drive from our home. The weather this … More A Long Autumn Weekend in Red River Gorge, Kentucky
With two state parks, spectacular hiking, a lake and a state forest, the Hocking Hills region in Ohio makes you feel like you’ve left the state and entered another world. Starting with Old Man’s Cave, the most popular destination, you can wind your way through the 6-mile journey, connecting to two of the park’s other … More A Perfect Weekend at Hocking Hills, Ohio
